Magic & Mirrors

I'm curious if the way magic works here felt fresh or if it drew on classic fantasy tropes. What stood out about the magic in this story for others?

The tone felt light and whimsical, but there was real tension too. Did others find the mix of comedy and suspense effective or jarring?

The town felt so vivid and charming, I wonder if it was inspired by a real place or if it was fully imagined. How do authors usually craft such evocative settings?