The Killing Spell is one of those rare urban fantasy novels that feels both wildly imaginative and deeply grounded. Drawing on Hawaiian culture, language, and mythology, it delivers a world that feels lived‑in, layered, and refreshingly different from anything else in the genre.

Kea Petrova is an instantly compelling protagonist — young, overburdened, and doing everything she can to keep her small clan afloat in a post‑flood Los Angeles that’s equal parts gritty and magical. Her spellcrafting, her stubborn loyalty, and her quiet resilience make her easy to root for, even as the stakes around her spiral into something far more dangerous than she ever expected.

The murder mystery at the heart of the story is gripping, but what really elevates the book is its thematic depth. The author weaves anti‑colonial commentary, diaspora identity, and the politics of language into the narrative without ever slowing the pace. Each school of magic feels purposeful, tied to culture and history rather than just aesthetics, and that makes the worldbuilding feel incredibly rich.

As Kea races to clear her name, the story expands into a tense, twisty exploration of power — who holds it, who’s denied it, and what happens when marginalized communities are forced to fight for survival in a city that would rather erase them. The supporting cast is vibrant, the magic system is clever and original, and the pacing never lets up.

If you love fantasy that blends sharp social commentary with immersive worldbuilding and a heroine you can’t help but cheer for, The Killing Spell is absolutely worth your time. It’s bold, atmospheric, and full of heart — a standout addition to the urban fantasy landscape.

My thanks to Shay Kauwe, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

Not often do I find books that actually surprise me, but this one did!
Kea was a character I could totally root for but the whole cast was nuanced yet their motivations understandable, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to read any fiction inspired by Hawaian folklore...
The setting itself was particularly fascinating, with a flooded Los Angeles, a murder to be solved, and, my soft spot, word magic.
I fell under the spell of this book in no time. Think R.F Kuang's Babel in a Reminiscence setting, if you loved any of those, you will adore this book!