A Witch's Custody Struggle

Paige Winterbourne, a young witch, is embroiled in a custody battle over her ward, Savannah, a powerful teenage witch. The challenge comes from Leah, a telekinetic half-demon, and Kristof Nast, a sorcerer claiming to be Savannah's father. The situation is further complicated by the Cabals, powerful sorcerer-run organizations. Paige struggles to protect Savannah while dealing with the Coven's reluctance to help, fearing exposure and scandal. As tensions rise, Paige must navigate both supernatural and legal threats to keep Savannah safe.

Sorcerer Lawyer's Unexpected Aid

Lucas Cortez, a young sorcerer lawyer, approaches Paige, offering his services to help with the custody battle. Initially suspicious, Paige learns that Cortez is the estranged son of the head of the Cortez Cabal, the most powerful Cabal. Despite his family ties, Cortez is determined to fight against Cabal injustices. He provides Paige with valuable insights into the Cabal world and offers protection, as his unique position makes him untouchable by the Nasts. Paige reluctantly accepts his help, realizing she needs all the allies she can get.

Funeral Chaos and Necromancy

Paige attends the funeral of her former lawyer, Grantham Cary, only to be caught in a supernatural attack orchestrated by Leah and Sandford. The dead rise, causing panic among the mourners. Paige narrowly escapes, aided by Cortez, who reveals the chaos was a result of necromancy and dime store magic. The incident highlights the lengths Leah and the Nasts will go to secure Savannah, and the danger Paige faces in protecting her.

Media Frenzy and Mob Threat

Returning home, Paige finds her house besieged by media, protesters, and curious onlookers. The crowd is fueled by sensationalist reports of witchcraft and Satanism. Cortez advises Paige to stay put, as the crowd's presence deters Cabal attacks. Despite the chaos, Paige must prepare for a visit from Social Services, who are concerned about Savannah's well-being. The situation is a powder keg, with tensions high and the threat of violence looming.

Coven's Ultimatum and Betrayal

The Coven Elders visit Paige, delivering an ultimatum: find a new home for Savannah or face banishment. They blame Paige for the escalating chaos and refuse to support her. Feeling betrayed, Paige is left to fend for herself, relying on Cortez's help. The Elders' decision forces Paige to confront her role as Coven Leader and the challenges of balancing personal loyalty with the Coven's safety.

Savannah's Spell and Riot

Frustrated by the crowd outside, Savannah casts a confusion spell, inadvertently sparking a riot. The situation spirals out of control, with violence erupting among the onlookers. Cortez and Paige struggle to contain the chaos and protect Savannah. The incident underscores the volatile nature of their predicament and the dangers of using magic in a world on the brink of hysteria.

Savannah's Dangerous Summoning Attempt

In a desperate attempt to protect Paige and herself, Savannah casts a powerful confusion spell that spirals out of control, inciting chaos and violence among the crowd outside their home. Paige and Lucas Cortez struggle to contain the situation, using calming spells to subdue the crowd. Despite their efforts, the chaos highlights the volatile nature of their predicament and the dangers of using magic recklessly.

Nast's Shocking Revelation

After being drugged and taken to a farmhouse, Paige and Savannah meet Kristof Nast, who claims to be Savannah's father. Nast offers Savannah a choice: stay with him and enjoy the privileges of being part of a powerful sorcerer family, or return to her life with Paige. Nast's revelation and offer leave Savannah and Paige reeling, as they grapple with the implications of his claim and the potential impact on their lives.

Savannah's Choice and Consequences

Despite Paige's attempts to protect her, Savannah is swayed by Nast's promises of power and privilege. She decides to stay with him, believing it to be the best choice for her future. Paige is devastated by Savannah's decision, feeling as though she has failed to protect her ward from the lure of the Cabal's power. The choice sets in motion a series of events that will test their bond and challenge their understanding of loyalty and family.

Deadly Ritual and Escape

Greta and Olivia, witches working for Nast, reveal a protection ritual that requires a human sacrifice. Savannah is horrified when she realizes the ritual involves killing an innocent boy. Despite her protests, the witches proceed, leaving Savannah traumatized and questioning the morality of the Cabal's practices. As Savannah's grief and anger manifest in uncontrollable magic, the farmhouse begins to collapse. Paige, using a spell to impersonate Savannah's deceased mother, manages to calm her and convince her to leave. The house collapses around them, but they escape, shaken but alive.

A New Beginning on the Road

With their old life in ruins, Paige and Savannah set out on a cross-country journey to find a new home. Joined by Lucas Cortez, they leave behind the chaos and danger of the past, seeking a fresh start and a chance to rebuild their lives. The journey represents a new chapter for Paige and Savannah, one filled with uncertainty but also hope and the promise of a brighter future.

Characters

Paige Winterbourne

Paige is a 23-year-old witch tasked with caring for Savannah, a powerful teenage witch. She faces a custody battle against supernatural forces while dealing with the Coven's lack of support. Paige is intelligent, resourceful, and fiercely protective of Savannah, but struggles with self-doubt and the weight of leadership. Her journey is one of resilience and growth, as she navigates the challenges of leadership and the complexities of loyalty and love.

Savannah Levine

Savannah is a powerful teenage witch caught between two worlds. Orphaned after her mother's death, she is caught in a custody battle. Her decision to stay with Nast is driven by a desire for power and belonging, but it comes at a cost. Savannah's journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the consequences of her choices and the true nature of power and family.

Lucas Cortez

Lucas is a young sorcerer and lawyer, estranged from his powerful Cabal family. He offers his services to Paige, motivated by a desire to fight Cabal injustices. Lucas is intelligent, calm, and resourceful, providing valuable insights and protection to Paige and Savannah as they navigate their new reality.

Leah O'Donnell

Leah is a telekinetic half-demon working with the Nast Cabal. Her ambition and ruthlessness make her a constant threat to Paige and Savannah. Leah's presence underscores the dangers of unchecked power and the lengths some will go to achieve their goals.

Kristof Nast

Kristof Nast is a powerful sorcerer who claims to be Savannah's father. He uses his charm and influence to sway Savannah, offering her a life of privilege and power within the Cabal. Despite his outward charm, Nast's true motivations are driven by control and ambition, making him a dangerous figure in Savannah's life.

Victoria Alden

Victoria is one of the Coven Elders, known for her strict adherence to Coven rules. She is critical of Paige's leadership and quick to blame her for the chaos surrounding Savannah. Victoria's fear of exposure and scandal influences her decisions, often putting the Coven's safety above individual needs.

Therese Moss

Therese is another Coven Elder, more sympathetic to Paige's plight but ultimately swayed by Victoria's influence. She is cautious and prefers to avoid conflict, often deferring to Victoria's judgment.

Robert Vasic

Robert is a professor of demonology and a former member of the interracial council. He provides Paige with valuable information on demons and Cabals. Robert is supportive and willing to help, offering a connection to the supernatural community.

Plot Devices

Custody Battle

The custody battle over Savannah is the main plot device, pitting Paige against powerful supernatural forces. It highlights themes of loyalty, power, and the struggle to protect loved ones in a dangerous world. It serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold, forcing characters to confront their beliefs and make difficult choices.

Cabal Politics

The Cabals represent a complex and dangerous political landscape. Their influence and resources pose a significant threat to Paige and Savannah, driving the conflict and shaping the narrative's tension. The politics of the Cabals highlight the corrupting nature of power and the challenges of navigating a world where loyalty is often bought and sold.

Magic and Spells

Magic is a key plot device, used by characters to protect, manipulate, and control. It underscores the dangers of the supernatural world and the fine line between using magic for good and causing unintended harm. The use of magic highlights the characters' struggles with power and the consequences of their choices.

Coven Dynamics

The Coven's reluctance to support Paige highlights themes of loyalty and betrayal. Their ultimatum forces Paige to confront her role as a leader and the challenges of balancing personal and communal responsibilities. The dynamics within the Coven reflect the broader themes of trust and the complexities of family and community.

Analysis

"Dime Store Magic" by Kelley Armstrong delves into the complexities of power, loyalty, and the struggle to protect loved ones in a world fraught with supernatural dangers. Through the lens of a custody battle, the narrative explores the corrupting influence of power, the challenges of leadership, and the importance of trust and understanding. The characters' journeys highlight the fine line between using power for good and succumbing to its darker temptations. The book underscores the importance of resilience, self-discovery, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship, offering a compelling exploration of the human condition in a world where magic and reality intertwine.

Last updated: February 24, 2025