BOOK BRIEF

First Year (The Black Mage, #1)

Rachel E. Carter
Guide cover placeholder

First Year (The Black Mage, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2017

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Rachel E. Carter

First Year (The Black Mage, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

322

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Jerar • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2017

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

First Year by Rachel E. Carter follows a young person's journey through a magical academy during their initial year. The student faces rigorous training and competition while uncovering hidden talents and secrets. Set in a fantasy world, the story explores themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the complexities of magic.

Reviews & Readership

4.1

29,492 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Rachel E. Carter's First Year offers a compelling start to her Black Mage series, featuring a strong-willed protagonist and immersive magical world. Praise highlights the engaging plot and rich character development. Criticisms focus on the predictable elements and occasional pacing issues. Overall, it captivates readers with its blend of action, romance, and fantasy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read First Year (The Black Mage, #1)?

Fans of Harry Potter and The Hunger Games will relish First Year by Rachel E. Carter. Ideal for readers who love coming-of-age tales filled with magic, intense academies, and fierce competition. It’s perfect for those who enjoy strong, ambitious protagonists navigating complex worlds.

4.1

29,492 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

First Year: The Black Mage is the debut novel of Rachel E. Carter, released independently in 2014 before gaining a re-release with publishing house Clean Teen Publishing in 2015.

The book marks the beginning of the four-part Black Mage series, which is praised for its blend of fantasy elements with a rigorous magical schooling system reminiscent of other popular fantasy series.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Rachel E. Carter developed the magic system in the series with inspiration from her fascination with Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, creating a unique setting with a competitive cast-selection process for magical apprentices.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Book Details
Pages

322

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Jerar • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2017

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!