Atlanta Social Exchange

We will read this book in September and discuss in October

Magic has made the city of Tiran an industrial utopia, but magic has a cost—and the collectors have come calling.

An orphan since the age of four, Sciona has always had more to prove than her fellow students. For twenty years, she has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic, fueled by a mad desire to achieve the impossible: to be the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry. When she finally claws her way up the ranks to become a highmage, however, she finds that her challenges have just begun. Her new colleagues will stop at nothing to let her know she is unwelcome, beginning with giving her a janitor instead of a qualified lab assistant.

What neither Sciona nor her peers realize is that her taciturn assistant was once more than a janitor; before he mopped floors for the mages, Thomil was a nomadic hunter from beyond Tiran’s magical barrier. Ten years have passed since he survived the perilous crossing that killed his family. But working for a highmage, he sees the opportunity to finally understand the forces that decimated his tribe, drove him from his homeland, and keep the Tiranish in power.

Through their fractious relationship, mage and outsider uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever—if it doesn’t get them killed first. Sciona has defined her life by the pursuit of truth, but how much is one truth worth with the fate of civilization in the balance?

A standalone dark academia brimming with mystery, tragedy, and the damning echoes of the past. For fans of Leigh Bardugo, V. E. Schwab, and Fullmetal Alchemist.

An elevated neighborhood Italian spot.

Bicicletta delights with "amazing food," exceptional service, and a "great atmosphere." Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, standout dishes include fresh, house-made pasta and pizzas. While some found the noise level high, the "friendly staff" and "delicious" offerings make it a local favorite. Reservations recommended for a seamless experience.

From Northern Italy to Peachtree City, Bicicletta celebrates the simple pleasure of gathering around a table. Inspired by the everyday rituals of Italy, the restaurant pairs house-made pasta, 72-hour pizza, Italian wines, and spritzes with warm hospitality in a welcoming space where conversation flows, friendships grow, and community comes naturally.

This is a Confirmed RSVP Event. Space is Limited. Please read all pinned comments and review the full Confirmed RSVP policy on the group discussion board.

If you want to taste Atlanta and not just see it, this is the experience to book. The Southern Essentials Cooking Class is a 1.5-hour, hands-on cooking experience that introduces you to three dishes that define Southern comfort and Atlanta flavor: flaky, buttery biscuits, classic homemade pimento cheese, and refreshingly sweet, iced tea.

This isn’t a demo you watch from the sidelines. You’ll roll, mix, stir, and sip your way through the foundations of Southern cooking while learning why these dishes matter, and why they’ve been passed down through generations of Atlanta kitchens. Along the way, you’ll pick up easy techniques, local food stories, and insider tips you can actually recreate back home.

Cost: $54.00 per person. Link to purchase in comments