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Mr. Darcy's Magic #1
Dangerous Magic
A sparkling tale of Regency England, a forced marriage, and two mages who must work together to save the Kingdom.
Elizabeth Bennet is stunned when the Royal Mages come to her peaceful country home of Longbourn to take her away. She is even more bewildered when she is commanded to marry a powerful mage by the name of Fitzwilliam Darcy. She has always dreamed of marrying for love, and an arranged marriage with an arrogant stranger was never part of her plans.
But Darcy and Elizabeth have no choice in the matter. Uniting their two forms of magic is essential if the Kingdom is to defeat Napoleon’s mages. They may dislike each other on sight, but Darcy and Elizabeth have to overcome their differences and find common ground before it is too late. Fortunately, it is not long before the sparks begin to fly between them.
Join the author of ‘Fortune and Felicity’ in this enchanting Jane Austen Variation, a story of determination, love, and hope against all odds.
Elizabeth Bennet is stunned when the Royal Mages come to her peaceful country home of Longbourn to take her away. She is even more bewildered when she is commanded to marry a powerful mage by the name of Fitzwilliam Darcy. She has always dreamed of marrying for love, and an arranged marriage with an arrogant stranger was never part of her plans.
But Darcy and Elizabeth have no choice in the matter. Uniting their two forms of magic is essential if the Kingdom is to defeat Napoleon’s mages. They may dislike each other on sight, but Darcy and Elizabeth have to overcome their differences and find common ground before it is too late. Fortunately, it is not long before the sparks begin to fly between them.
Join the author of ‘Fortune and Felicity’ in this enchanting Jane Austen Variation, a story of determination, love, and hope against all odds.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2021
155 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Monica Fairview
31 books226 followersMonica Fairview writes Jane Austen variations and sequels as well as Fantasy P&P variations. After graduating from the University of Illinois, she worked as a literature professor and then as an acupuncturist in Boston before moving to London.
Monica enjoys reading Jane Austen, historical , fantasy and post-apocalyptic novels , but avoids zombies like the plague. She loves to laugh, drink lots of tea, and visit Regency houses, and she is convinced that her two cats can understand everything she says.
If you'd like to be notified of her latest release, please press the FOLLOW button on Monica Fairview's Amazon page.
If you'd like to find out more about Monica, you can find her at
http://www.darcyregencynovels.com/
http://austenvariations.com
http://monicafairview.blogspot.com
Monica enjoys reading Jane Austen, historical , fantasy and post-apocalyptic novels , but avoids zombies like the plague. She loves to laugh, drink lots of tea, and visit Regency houses, and she is convinced that her two cats can understand everything she says.
If you'd like to be notified of her latest release, please press the FOLLOW button on Monica Fairview's Amazon page.
If you'd like to find out more about Monica, you can find her at
http://www.darcyregencynovels.com/
http://austenvariations.com
http://monicafairview.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
November 1, 2021
This is the second of the three Pride & Prejudice fanfics I indulged in last week. Another kind of odd one, but in a far different way, since this one involves Elizabeth and Darcy having powerful magical abilities that are vital in England’s war with France. For the kind of magic they do, it's important to do it in pairs, with a magical Bonding. And this being Regency times, for an opposite sex Bonding, because of all the time the pair spends together, they need to be married. Yes, it's marriage of convenience time!
Elizabeth and Darcy do their typical "enemies to friends" thing. The big problem is that Elizabeth's magical training has been very unconventional, and maybe because of that or maybe for other reasons, the two of them can't magically bond. In fact, their magic seems to cancel each other out. Not a great thing when you're in the middle of mage wars with France.
Except for a couple of short scenes in Longbourn, this whole novel is set in the Mage Hall where Britain's war mages mostly live and train. And that leads me to my main issue with this novel: there's just really no good reason for this to be based on the P&P story and characters (other than that it probably catches the attention of Austen fans, so you sell more copies?). The plot is completely different in every conceivable way, and the characters ... well, if they didn't have the same names as the P&P characters, nothing in their behavior or in the story generally would have clued me into the fact that this is JAFF.
So as a fantasy novel (first in a series, apparently, though this works reasonably well as a standalone read) it's not bad. Not great either, but not bad. Just not reminiscent of P&P in any meaningful way.
Elizabeth and Darcy do their typical "enemies to friends" thing. The big problem is that Elizabeth's magical training has been very unconventional, and maybe because of that or maybe for other reasons, the two of them can't magically bond. In fact, their magic seems to cancel each other out. Not a great thing when you're in the middle of mage wars with France.
Except for a couple of short scenes in Longbourn, this whole novel is set in the Mage Hall where Britain's war mages mostly live and train. And that leads me to my main issue with this novel: there's just really no good reason for this to be based on the P&P story and characters (other than that it probably catches the attention of Austen fans, so you sell more copies?). The plot is completely different in every conceivable way, and the characters ... well, if they didn't have the same names as the P&P characters, nothing in their behavior or in the story generally would have clued me into the fact that this is JAFF.
So as a fantasy novel (first in a series, apparently, though this works reasonably well as a standalone read) it's not bad. Not great either, but not bad. Just not reminiscent of P&P in any meaningful way.
March 16, 2021
Pride & Prejudice & Magic done right! Gulped it down in one sitting!
Ms Fairview weaves a spell of a yarn with threads of humor, romance, a dash of intrigue and just a flirt of angst that teases without overwhelming.
Synopsis:
It's war time in a magical England and Lizzy, possessing a rare magical ability, is conscripted.
Although to become a Janus Mage is a great honor, she will be required to work hand in hand with Mr Darcy and thus they must marry preemptively for the close proximity the work demands would render her compromised.
This arrangement is by no means welcomed news to either Darcy or Lizzy.
The Royal Mage council is entrenched in incompetent, classist bureaucracy.
Their apprehensions have hindered them from considering unconventional magic or educating & recruiting talent not from their circle- which has resulted in France gaining the upper hand, having done away with such inane scruples. They only turned to Lizzy, with not a little resentment, because they had no other recourse. No one is more set against her than Lady Alice- she'll give you flashes of Umbridge from Harry Potter.
Sparks keep flying between Darcy and Lizzy- literally. Darcy catches on fire whenever they try to form the bond necessary to work together. They are having a deuce of a time acclimating, their magic seems incompatible and there is no precedence for this issue.
With tensions high and an attack impending, will Lizzy and Darcy manage to scale this massive impediment in time?
That Which Sparked Joy:
❀The prose- couldn't tear my eyes away- the pacing flows and the premiss ensnares you.
❀Lizzy & Darcy are in fine- charming & on character- form. The stage isn't littered with characters, ODC take centre & foremost stage- so you get a lot of page time with them together and their POV hops back and forth which I enjoyed.
❀ ODC relationship! They bicker and banter like an old married couple in the way you want, their chemistry is palpable and palatable.
The Decree:
I am unable to conjure up the slightest complaint! I was enthralled from cover to cover.
I am ecstatic that this is slated as the first in a series- this is a magical regency world I want to explore further! I am however grieved that there will be a wait- I want it now!
This is my first tryst with this author and I am most impressed! I look forward to venturing with assurance into her other works, she has proven to have a good sense of flow, story structure and all my respects and compliments go out to her for not leaving us on a dangling thread as she very well could have.
She must be aware she needn't use such ploys- her writing in enticing enough to leave a reader in breathless anticipation. Class act!
Ms Fairview weaves a spell of a yarn with threads of humor, romance, a dash of intrigue and just a flirt of angst that teases without overwhelming.
Synopsis:
It's war time in a magical England and Lizzy, possessing a rare magical ability, is conscripted.
Although to become a Janus Mage is a great honor, she will be required to work hand in hand with Mr Darcy and thus they must marry preemptively for the close proximity the work demands would render her compromised.
This arrangement is by no means welcomed news to either Darcy or Lizzy.
The Royal Mage council is entrenched in incompetent, classist bureaucracy.
Their apprehensions have hindered them from considering unconventional magic or educating & recruiting talent not from their circle- which has resulted in France gaining the upper hand, having done away with such inane scruples. They only turned to Lizzy, with not a little resentment, because they had no other recourse. No one is more set against her than Lady Alice- she'll give you flashes of Umbridge from Harry Potter.
Sparks keep flying between Darcy and Lizzy- literally. Darcy catches on fire whenever they try to form the bond necessary to work together. They are having a deuce of a time acclimating, their magic seems incompatible and there is no precedence for this issue.
With tensions high and an attack impending, will Lizzy and Darcy manage to scale this massive impediment in time?
That Which Sparked Joy:
❀The prose- couldn't tear my eyes away- the pacing flows and the premiss ensnares you.
❀Lizzy & Darcy are in fine- charming & on character- form. The stage isn't littered with characters, ODC take centre & foremost stage- so you get a lot of page time with them together and their POV hops back and forth which I enjoyed.
❀ ODC relationship! They bicker and banter like an old married couple in the way you want, their chemistry is palpable and palatable.
“Well, Elizabeth, I can now add ‘punctual’ to the list of positive qualities you have.”
“You may as well admit that it is the first item on the list so far.”
The Decree:
I am unable to conjure up the slightest complaint! I was enthralled from cover to cover.
I am ecstatic that this is slated as the first in a series- this is a magical regency world I want to explore further! I am however grieved that there will be a wait- I want it now!
This is my first tryst with this author and I am most impressed! I look forward to venturing with assurance into her other works, she has proven to have a good sense of flow, story structure and all my respects and compliments go out to her for not leaving us on a dangling thread as she very well could have.
She must be aware she needn't use such ploys- her writing in enticing enough to leave a reader in breathless anticipation. Class act!
December 30, 2021
Love is a magical energy that is the very anchor, substance, and essence of life. ~ Alan D. Wolfelt
“Dangerous Magic” begins with our hero, Fitzwilliam Darcy, angry at being forced into an unwanted marriage.
Quote from the book: “There is only so much a man can take in the name of duty!”
He was ready to explode with frustration. He drew in a breath, trying to compose himself.
“You must go on, for the sake of King and Country,” said Bingley. “Look, I know things have been more difficult for you than for anyone else, but you have to put the past behind you.”
Everyone mouthed the same empty words.
Put the past behind you. As if the past was an overcoat that could be shrugged off at will.
Napoleon still runs loose on the Continent and threatens England with magical Mages of his own. King and Country require sacrifices.
Darcy’s duty is clear: he is a Janus Mage, a rare, powerful Mage who must be paired with a “twin” Mage. He had a Twin, Lord Cuthbert, who was killed in battle. Now he must be re-assigned to an unknown young woman.
Love is a magician that can make hearts change places in a second. Presto chango! ~ Clyde Fitch
Elizabeth Bennet is home in Hertfordshire when a coach arrives bearing a contingent from the Council of Royal Mages who will conscript her into service. Elizabeth has no choice but to agree. Her father has no choice but to agree. Elizabeth will be required to bond with the bereaved Janus Mage. And when Twin Janus Mages are of opposite sexes, they are required to marry. For propriety’s sake, you understand. Even in the magical world, it is still Regency England.
Elizabeth is quickly whisked away but it is soon apparent that not every Mage is in favor of her match. Her father left the Royal Mages in his youth. Her mother is not among the magical beings. Elizabeth is considered inferior.
Some of the canon characters are present: the Bingleys appear as themselves; Lord Matlock and his sons are highly ranked Mages; Lady Catherine makes her sentiments known.
New characters are introduced, most notably Lady Alice who shows her disapproval openly.
The wedding takes place and bonding must occur. Failure to bond becomes a serious issue between the marital partners.
Love is the magician that pulls man out of his own hat. ~ Ben Hecht
Darcy tries to bond — when he is not chastising his wife over her lack of Academy training.
Elizabeth tries to bond — when she isn’t resenting her place among the Royal Mages.
And just when things seem impossible, the Mages suffer an attack from the French Mages.
“Dangerous Magic” ends at a good place with no heroes or heroines hanging from cliffs but it is obvious something more is to come and indeed, a sequel is in the works.
I still had some questions at the end:
What really happened to Lord Cuthbert?
Why did Mr. Bennet leave the Council of Mages?
And most important of all: How can the French be defeated?
I would recommend this to anyone who likes JAFF, especially if they also like Harry Potter!
Full disclosure: I did miss the moving staircases.
I received an early copy of this book with no promise of a review, good or bad.
Like a dragon, love is a magical paradox. Sometimes fierce. Sometimes tender. Always mysterious. Love is magical because we have spacious imaginations that allow us to be inside the reality of others. ~ Kathleen Keating
“Dangerous Magic” begins with our hero, Fitzwilliam Darcy, angry at being forced into an unwanted marriage.
Quote from the book: “There is only so much a man can take in the name of duty!”
He was ready to explode with frustration. He drew in a breath, trying to compose himself.
“You must go on, for the sake of King and Country,” said Bingley. “Look, I know things have been more difficult for you than for anyone else, but you have to put the past behind you.”
Everyone mouthed the same empty words.
Put the past behind you. As if the past was an overcoat that could be shrugged off at will.
Napoleon still runs loose on the Continent and threatens England with magical Mages of his own. King and Country require sacrifices.
Darcy’s duty is clear: he is a Janus Mage, a rare, powerful Mage who must be paired with a “twin” Mage. He had a Twin, Lord Cuthbert, who was killed in battle. Now he must be re-assigned to an unknown young woman.
Love is a magician that can make hearts change places in a second. Presto chango! ~ Clyde Fitch
Elizabeth Bennet is home in Hertfordshire when a coach arrives bearing a contingent from the Council of Royal Mages who will conscript her into service. Elizabeth has no choice but to agree. Her father has no choice but to agree. Elizabeth will be required to bond with the bereaved Janus Mage. And when Twin Janus Mages are of opposite sexes, they are required to marry. For propriety’s sake, you understand. Even in the magical world, it is still Regency England.
Elizabeth is quickly whisked away but it is soon apparent that not every Mage is in favor of her match. Her father left the Royal Mages in his youth. Her mother is not among the magical beings. Elizabeth is considered inferior.
Some of the canon characters are present: the Bingleys appear as themselves; Lord Matlock and his sons are highly ranked Mages; Lady Catherine makes her sentiments known.
New characters are introduced, most notably Lady Alice who shows her disapproval openly.
The wedding takes place and bonding must occur. Failure to bond becomes a serious issue between the marital partners.
Love is the magician that pulls man out of his own hat. ~ Ben Hecht
Darcy tries to bond — when he is not chastising his wife over her lack of Academy training.
Elizabeth tries to bond — when she isn’t resenting her place among the Royal Mages.
And just when things seem impossible, the Mages suffer an attack from the French Mages.
“Dangerous Magic” ends at a good place with no heroes or heroines hanging from cliffs but it is obvious something more is to come and indeed, a sequel is in the works.
I still had some questions at the end:
What really happened to Lord Cuthbert?
Why did Mr. Bennet leave the Council of Mages?
And most important of all: How can the French be defeated?
I would recommend this to anyone who likes JAFF, especially if they also like Harry Potter!
Full disclosure: I did miss the moving staircases.
I received an early copy of this book with no promise of a review, good or bad.
Like a dragon, love is a magical paradox. Sometimes fierce. Sometimes tender. Always mysterious. Love is magical because we have spacious imaginations that allow us to be inside the reality of others. ~ Kathleen Keating
January 5, 2023
2022/2023 - Listen to audiobook in preparation for second book coming out. It really is an amazing story.
I don't love the narrator chosen, but on the second listen at a faster speed, I got used to it. She did a great job narrating.
OH. MY. GOSH!! I loved it!!!
This book is the perfect blend of the author's writing style and P&P variation combined with sci-fantasy.
When I first read a blurb about it, I must admit I was hesitant, even cynical- thinking it sounded far fetched. But it's not!! It really works and MF got some iconic P&P quotes fit in quite naturally.
Elizabeth being forced in to a marriage with Darcy assumes that is the worst that could happen. However, there are dark forces moving against her than only the French mages. Despite feeling isolated, she still finds a way to make connections. However, the one connection she desperately needs to make is with her husband, but how can she when he is so cold and distant.
The last thing to say is, not sure I can wait till the next book in the series comes out. I wonder how Jane gets woven so she can meet Bingley.
I don't love the narrator chosen, but on the second listen at a faster speed, I got used to it. She did a great job narrating.
OH. MY. GOSH!! I loved it!!!
This book is the perfect blend of the author's writing style and P&P variation combined with sci-fantasy.
When I first read a blurb about it, I must admit I was hesitant, even cynical- thinking it sounded far fetched. But it's not!! It really works and MF got some iconic P&P quotes fit in quite naturally.
Elizabeth being forced in to a marriage with Darcy assumes that is the worst that could happen. However, there are dark forces moving against her than only the French mages. Despite feeling isolated, she still finds a way to make connections. However, the one connection she desperately needs to make is with her husband, but how can she when he is so cold and distant.
The last thing to say is, not sure I can wait till the next book in the series comes out. I wonder how Jane gets woven so she can meet Bingley.
February 22, 2021
My Rating: 5+++++++
I LOVED EVERYTHING SINGLE THING ABOUT THIS NOVEL!!!
"I will not marry this Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and that is my final word." (quote from the book)
Dangerous magic, indeed! From the first page to the last, I was completely enthralled with this Pride & Prejudice Fantasy. As I love an imaginative and well done 'outside-the-box' creation, this one did not just 'speak to me' it 'shouted to me'!
Why you wonder? Darcy and Elizabeth are both mages in their own right...what's not to love there! However, Darcy is classically trained by the Royal Academy under the auspices of the Council of Mages and is of 'True-Blood'. Miss Elizabeth has not been 'officially' trained, but she is still powerful. So she is completely taken by surprise when Royal Mages arrive at Longbourn to announce that she has been 'invited to join His Royal Majesty's Mages, by command of His Royal Highness the Prince Regent, and the Council of Mages.'
"Elizabeth felt as if a huge wave had crested and washed over her, sweeping her away and leaving her struggling to breathe." (quote from the book)
Elizabeth and Darcy are being forced to marry for 'King and Country' as Napoleonic mages are on their doorstep and have already done major damage. Both have rare and unique skills that are urgently needed to help save the country. Oh, it was fun watching the sparks fly when they meet and especially after they marry! Have a fire extinguisher handy! The interaction of Elizabeth and Darcy, and the barriers and resentments each held as they tried to work together, was on full display.
"...it struck her finally that, by marrying Mr. Darcy, she was in imminent danger." (quote from the book)
The creative world of this novel is seamlessly woven in and doesn't slow the story down. Some dear, and not so dear characters, have a role in this story. Of course, Lady Catherine must have her share of the conversation. However, there is another that causes Elizabeth to watch her back. Deceit, lies and betrayals flow through this novel and Elizabeth and Darcy must break them down or perish. And when the French strike, I was completely riveted. I held my breath and watched it all unfold before me. Oh, the power of the mages battling was frightening and how they fought against each other was mesmerizing.
I highly recommend this creative, imaginative and breathtaking fantasy of Pride and Prejudice. It was bewitchingly magical! This is a stand-alone novel but a sequel is in the works!
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book for a fair and honest review.
February 17, 2021
“… for the sake of King and Country.” quote from the book
Rating: clean: an older reader [->13] is suggested as some violent scenes may be intense: angst: medium-to-high: source: ARC
Since I am a Harry Potter fan, I couldn’t help but love a story with magic and danger combined with my favorite Austen characters. Oh-My-Gosh! This was amazing and grabbed me immediately. England was at war and the populous who had power… real power was in charge of the safety of England against the magical attacks from France. Every advantage was needed as Napoleon’s forces grew stronger.
This was during the time when the English aristocracy was dying from within. Their lifestyles and lack of restraint were bankrupting their coffers and their illusions of class, wealth, and place in society were slowly eroding beneath them. The change was inevitable but they staunchly held on to their place and positions. So too were the beliefs and principles within the magic community. Anyone with any knowledge of animal husbandry knows what happens to a herd due to inbreeding. Fresh blood was needed as the magical strength of the Academy was weakening. Only one problem, they failed to see it.
As England fought for supremacy over France, the Royal Academy held to the age-old traditions and practices stating that only True-blood mages were worthy of being in the Royal Academy. This reminded me of the Mud-blood controversy from Harry Potter. True-bloods looked down on half-bloods as inferior and not worthy of acceptance in the hallowed halls of the Royal Mages. Years earlier, this antiquated attitude was what caused a younger Mr. Bennet to leave the Academy and withdraw to his little village and the solitude of his bookroom where he could continue his studies of the ancient manuscripts.
France, during the time of Terror, had dispatched most of their aristocracy and was creating a magical army from all classes. Their use of anyone with magical powers was gaining strength over the English by their sheer numbers. Even though England and France were basically using the same magical practices, the English mages were becoming overwhelmed and exhausted as their numbers slowly dwindled. Something had to change.
The Bennet family of Longbourn had lived quietly for years in their small village near Meryton, Hertfordshire. Elizabeth, the second of five daughters, enjoyed an idyllic life until the carriage from the Royal Mage Council arrived at her doorsteps. She was being conscripted for the war effort. As a Janus Mage or a twin mage, she would be linked to another. Only it was not her joining another female mage but a male. In order for her to work in close proximity to him and to protect her reputation, the council insisted that they should marry.
From this point on, our story was rife with treachery, deceit, and angst. It was made very clear to our Elizabeth that she was an outsider, not a True-blood, had not trained in an Academy, and was not wanted. After her quick marriage to Fitzwilliam Darcy, they began the arduous process of bonding [uniting] their magic so they could fight against the imminent assault of the French as a Janus Mage pair. Only something was wrong. The process was not working and Elizabeth was made to feel it in numerous ways.
Many canon scenes were used in different formats. Monica Fairview creatively gave our Darcy his moment with an equivalent to the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal]. Oh, dear. Our girl was quick with her version of the set-down that put Darcy on the right path. Lady Catherine, not to be outdone, let her sentiments be known. It was fun reading familiar dialogue used in new and unique ways. Even though there were a lot of new characters, a few faces from our canon story rounded out the cast to this high-octane story. I thought my heart would stop during the French attack. OMG! This was an amazing story. I loved it even though it was difficult reading at times. When our author ratcheted the angst up to new levels, ICNPID and finished in the wee hours of the morning. Yawn… I think I need a nap. I did have a few questions; however, I have learned that there will be another book in the series. So, I must wait to see what follows. I have to find out what happens to ODC.
I received an ARC [2-15-21] with no stipulations or requirements attached. I volunteered to read and write a review and the views and opinions expressed are my own. I highly recommend this for those lovers of paranormal with loads of angst. This was amazing.
Rating: clean: an older reader [->13] is suggested as some violent scenes may be intense: angst: medium-to-high: source: ARC
Since I am a Harry Potter fan, I couldn’t help but love a story with magic and danger combined with my favorite Austen characters. Oh-My-Gosh! This was amazing and grabbed me immediately. England was at war and the populous who had power… real power was in charge of the safety of England against the magical attacks from France. Every advantage was needed as Napoleon’s forces grew stronger.
This was during the time when the English aristocracy was dying from within. Their lifestyles and lack of restraint were bankrupting their coffers and their illusions of class, wealth, and place in society were slowly eroding beneath them. The change was inevitable but they staunchly held on to their place and positions. So too were the beliefs and principles within the magic community. Anyone with any knowledge of animal husbandry knows what happens to a herd due to inbreeding. Fresh blood was needed as the magical strength of the Academy was weakening. Only one problem, they failed to see it.
As England fought for supremacy over France, the Royal Academy held to the age-old traditions and practices stating that only True-blood mages were worthy of being in the Royal Academy. This reminded me of the Mud-blood controversy from Harry Potter. True-bloods looked down on half-bloods as inferior and not worthy of acceptance in the hallowed halls of the Royal Mages. Years earlier, this antiquated attitude was what caused a younger Mr. Bennet to leave the Academy and withdraw to his little village and the solitude of his bookroom where he could continue his studies of the ancient manuscripts.
France, during the time of Terror, had dispatched most of their aristocracy and was creating a magical army from all classes. Their use of anyone with magical powers was gaining strength over the English by their sheer numbers. Even though England and France were basically using the same magical practices, the English mages were becoming overwhelmed and exhausted as their numbers slowly dwindled. Something had to change.
The Bennet family of Longbourn had lived quietly for years in their small village near Meryton, Hertfordshire. Elizabeth, the second of five daughters, enjoyed an idyllic life until the carriage from the Royal Mage Council arrived at her doorsteps. She was being conscripted for the war effort. As a Janus Mage or a twin mage, she would be linked to another. Only it was not her joining another female mage but a male. In order for her to work in close proximity to him and to protect her reputation, the council insisted that they should marry.
From this point on, our story was rife with treachery, deceit, and angst. It was made very clear to our Elizabeth that she was an outsider, not a True-blood, had not trained in an Academy, and was not wanted. After her quick marriage to Fitzwilliam Darcy, they began the arduous process of bonding [uniting] their magic so they could fight against the imminent assault of the French as a Janus Mage pair. Only something was wrong. The process was not working and Elizabeth was made to feel it in numerous ways.
Many canon scenes were used in different formats. Monica Fairview creatively gave our Darcy his moment with an equivalent to the DHP [Disastrous Hunsford Proposal]. Oh, dear. Our girl was quick with her version of the set-down that put Darcy on the right path. Lady Catherine, not to be outdone, let her sentiments be known. It was fun reading familiar dialogue used in new and unique ways. Even though there were a lot of new characters, a few faces from our canon story rounded out the cast to this high-octane story. I thought my heart would stop during the French attack. OMG! This was an amazing story. I loved it even though it was difficult reading at times. When our author ratcheted the angst up to new levels, ICNPID and finished in the wee hours of the morning. Yawn… I think I need a nap. I did have a few questions; however, I have learned that there will be another book in the series. So, I must wait to see what follows. I have to find out what happens to ODC.
I received an ARC [2-15-21] with no stipulations or requirements attached. I volunteered to read and write a review and the views and opinions expressed are my own. I highly recommend this for those lovers of paranormal with loads of angst. This was amazing.
March 22, 2021
What if the world was a very magical place? That some humans possessed magic in varying strengths and types? That bloodlines determined social standing? That magic was the weapon du jour of the Napoleonic War and war of the heart? Well then, Jane Austen’s classic takes on a whole new and fantastic look when her magic is not tamed enough to tempt him. An author who has been auto-buy for ages bespelled her pen and produced another good one.
Dangerous Magic has the job of introducing the world, the characters, and both the book and series plots. I never felt overwhelmed or distracted because the characters, especially Darcy and Elizabeth were complex and their dialogue and actions were engaging, but the pace does start slower and picks up as it goes. The magical world was incredibly fascinating and I loved how it was organic with the plot and characters.
Elizabeth is something of a firebrand. She may be the underdog in fact, but not in truth the way she takes on the barely disguised insults and condescension of the Council and other Royal Mages. She knows her worth and knows the worth of being open-minded where magic is concerned, but she is up against strong tradition and belief in methodology learned from books and methods that worked in the past. Only Lord Matlock sees the potential in bringing new blood into the midst to change the rules of the game when engaging the French mages.
Elizabeth is not without her vulnerabilities or blind side particularly when it comes to Darcy. They get on each other’s nerves and can’t seem to get past prejudices because there is no time to hash out their differences and learn each other better.
As to Darcy, he is narrow-minded as the rest, but slowly he starts to admire and feel things for Elizabeth. Unfortunately, duty commands him to ruthlessly keep working to forge the magic bond with her and he is convinced that she is fighting him all the way. Even though he comes to the point where he wants to give it more chances, he is faced with duty and service that call him to cut her loose.
Darcy and Elizabeth’s story is not told in a vacuum. They are surrounded by an interesting cast of characters who range from the friendly and encouraging Mr. Bingley to the cold hauteur and menace of Lady Alice. I had suspicions with her and I discovered I was right.
The story ends on a high note at a promising place, but it is not the ultimate end. This is part of a series. I, for one of many, am eager to see what comes next in the dire war they are in and the upheaval that events at the end caused in the Royal Mage quarters. And, of course, I want more Darcy, Elizabeth and the rest living in their sparkling magical world. Those who enjoy Gaslight Romance, Historical Fantasy and Austenesque should definitely let this one cast its spell over you.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will appear on my Bloglovin Page for the Dangerous Magic Tour on March 22nd.
https://www.bloglovin.com/@sophiarose
Dangerous Magic has the job of introducing the world, the characters, and both the book and series plots. I never felt overwhelmed or distracted because the characters, especially Darcy and Elizabeth were complex and their dialogue and actions were engaging, but the pace does start slower and picks up as it goes. The magical world was incredibly fascinating and I loved how it was organic with the plot and characters.
Elizabeth is something of a firebrand. She may be the underdog in fact, but not in truth the way she takes on the barely disguised insults and condescension of the Council and other Royal Mages. She knows her worth and knows the worth of being open-minded where magic is concerned, but she is up against strong tradition and belief in methodology learned from books and methods that worked in the past. Only Lord Matlock sees the potential in bringing new blood into the midst to change the rules of the game when engaging the French mages.
Elizabeth is not without her vulnerabilities or blind side particularly when it comes to Darcy. They get on each other’s nerves and can’t seem to get past prejudices because there is no time to hash out their differences and learn each other better.
As to Darcy, he is narrow-minded as the rest, but slowly he starts to admire and feel things for Elizabeth. Unfortunately, duty commands him to ruthlessly keep working to forge the magic bond with her and he is convinced that she is fighting him all the way. Even though he comes to the point where he wants to give it more chances, he is faced with duty and service that call him to cut her loose.
Darcy and Elizabeth’s story is not told in a vacuum. They are surrounded by an interesting cast of characters who range from the friendly and encouraging Mr. Bingley to the cold hauteur and menace of Lady Alice. I had suspicions with her and I discovered I was right.
The story ends on a high note at a promising place, but it is not the ultimate end. This is part of a series. I, for one of many, am eager to see what comes next in the dire war they are in and the upheaval that events at the end caused in the Royal Mage quarters. And, of course, I want more Darcy, Elizabeth and the rest living in their sparkling magical world. Those who enjoy Gaslight Romance, Historical Fantasy and Austenesque should definitely let this one cast its spell over you.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will appear on my Bloglovin Page for the Dangerous Magic Tour on March 22nd.
https://www.bloglovin.com/@sophiarose
February 7, 2023
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
February 14, 2021
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars. I received an ARC of this story with no strings attached.
The author's blurb sets this story up nicely for us. Elizabeth is summoned to serve her country in a time of war against France. In this story the forces of magic determine much of how the battles will go. The Council of Royal Mages has been forced to relocate as the last battle has damaged their old Hall. Elizabeth has been chosen to replace a Janus Twin who was killed in that same conflict. And she must marry the other person of that set due to their need to work in very close proximity. Both Elizabeth and Darcy (Yes, he is to be the other half of the Janus Mage set.) are not happy and push to find other answers to this dilemma. However, the Mage Council assures them that the search for a new partner was exacting and thorough and that they are best matched.
Both find the need to accept the marriage and the fact that it will not be consummated due to dangers to any child being conceived and in utero becoming known to the enemy. Then there are many further conflicts as Darcy finds that Elizabeth has had none of the traditional academy training nor is she from a true-blood family. Their attempts to bond fail miserably...even with some physical injury and no one can figure out why. With time running out in expectations of an attack by the French Mages it is decided to abandon the pairing. Darcy's only choice now is to bond with a 14-year-old boy. The marriage will need to be annulled so Elizabeth returns his wedding ring and moves back to the quarters for maidens.
An attack occurs and Darcy's "twin" fails. Darcy has few choices: his life, the life of Redmond or fight for his King & Country. Salvation comes from a very unexpected source with power unrealized.
And so, readers, I urge you to read this tale which is very different from canon. The names are the same but the story is very different...I was kept on the edge of my seat waiting for these two to find anything in common and then to go against the Council which did not want to give credence to a new level of magic in the land.
I do have to say that I would have liked some more romance near the end. I thought it ended a little abruptly for my tastes.
I don't know if the author plans a sequel to this story but I would dearly love one. I highly recommend this story.
The author's blurb sets this story up nicely for us. Elizabeth is summoned to serve her country in a time of war against France. In this story the forces of magic determine much of how the battles will go. The Council of Royal Mages has been forced to relocate as the last battle has damaged their old Hall. Elizabeth has been chosen to replace a Janus Twin who was killed in that same conflict. And she must marry the other person of that set due to their need to work in very close proximity. Both Elizabeth and Darcy (Yes, he is to be the other half of the Janus Mage set.) are not happy and push to find other answers to this dilemma. However, the Mage Council assures them that the search for a new partner was exacting and thorough and that they are best matched.
Both find the need to accept the marriage and the fact that it will not be consummated due to dangers to any child being conceived and in utero becoming known to the enemy. Then there are many further conflicts as Darcy finds that Elizabeth has had none of the traditional academy training nor is she from a true-blood family. Their attempts to bond fail miserably...even with some physical injury and no one can figure out why. With time running out in expectations of an attack by the French Mages it is decided to abandon the pairing. Darcy's only choice now is to bond with a 14-year-old boy. The marriage will need to be annulled so Elizabeth returns his wedding ring and moves back to the quarters for maidens.
An attack occurs and Darcy's "twin" fails. Darcy has few choices: his life, the life of Redmond or fight for his King & Country. Salvation comes from a very unexpected source with power unrealized.
And so, readers, I urge you to read this tale which is very different from canon. The names are the same but the story is very different...I was kept on the edge of my seat waiting for these two to find anything in common and then to go against the Council which did not want to give credence to a new level of magic in the land.
I do have to say that I would have liked some more romance near the end. I thought it ended a little abruptly for my tastes.
I don't know if the author plans a sequel to this story but I would dearly love one. I highly recommend this story.
March 15, 2021
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Dangerous Magic is not the typical book I would eagerly wait to read because I am not much into magic, however, everything in it is so perfect, that after reading it, I am now eagerly anticipating the sequel to be transported into this this magical realm once more.
I’ve read a few books that have magic elements in it, but Dangerous Magic is in a completely different league and stands out from all others. Unlike other books, the magic element in Dangerous Magic is not something that is simply added to a Darcy and Elizabeth story, it is the story itself, which makes the plot much more interesting and compelling in my perspective. I can easily see this book becoming part of a long term series, and I can see the resemblance it has to the appeal Harry Potter generated in millions of readers.
In Dangerous Magic the war between England and France is not fought by the usual military soldiers, it is fought by their best mages, and England is losing ground being almost dependent on Mr. Darcy, one of its strongest mages. However, he is a Janus Mage, which means that for him to be at his best, he must be paired with a “twin” mage. With only a few other mages compatible with Mr. Darcy’s magic, and being Elizabeth Bennet his best match, she is called to serve her country. However, she is not just required to fight the French, she is required to marry Mr. Darcy, a man she never met before.
Even though the story starts out with a forced marriage scenario, it doesn’t follow the usual plot lines we are used to. First, the main focus is not the marriage itself, but the bonding that needs to be created between Elizabeth and Darcy for them to be ready for the war against France. Secondly, instead of having one of them resenting the other because of the marriage, we see Elizabeth and Darcy joining forces to achieve a common goal. They have different views on how magic can be used, but their love for their country and their sense of duty, will bring them together, and slowly, they start seeing how their opposite views will make them stronger. I loved to see how resilient Elizabeth and Darcy’s connection was and how their love slowly grew into something bigger then themselves. I felt they could conquer everything as long as they were working together.
Most scenes in this book are placed at Founder’s Hall, where the most talented mages of the country are training to be ready for battle, and I loved everything about that place. I loved the existing rules and habits, the different rooms of the Hall, which were vivid in my mind due to Monica Fairview’s excellent writing, and most of all, I loved getting to know the different types of mages that exist. It made perfect sense for some mages to be specialised on attack, others to specialise on defensive spells, and also for healers to be around to care for the ones fighting in the front lines. This entire magic background made the book enthralling.
Another aspect I loved in Dangerous Magic was how Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth’s personalities were so well adjusted to the type of magic they practised. It was only logical that Mr. Darcy practises an academic magic, which follows the rules and requires a lot of study to memorize spells, while Elizabeth’s magic is more self-governed and based on instinct. Their strength and worthiness was proved in the final battle, and were it not for their divergent yet compatible gifts, all would be lost. I felt transported into this world and I was fighting alongside Darcy and Elizabeth on that last battle. Not every book can make me feel inside the story, but Dangerous Magic did that from the first word to the last one.
Darcy was in essentials the same we see in canon, except that in this book he is probably the only Mage who can save England from Napolean, giving him an additional charm that will certainly appeal to all readers. And Elizabeth’s character was pure perfection. I loved everything about her, but especially her resilience and ability to adapt to new and trying situations.
Dangerous Magic is a book that transports its readers into a wonderful new realm full of excitement. It is so well written that each scene is vivid and appears to be happening right in front of us. The magic element, the Hall, the war with Napolean and Elizabeth and Darcy’s romance all blend into an engaging story that I could not put down. I read this book non-stop and when I finished reading it, I felt the immediate need to either re-read it or read a sequel. I wanted to keep fighting the French mages with Darcy and Elizabeth, and even though it is a standalone, I wanted to know if they will win the war, if Elizabeth will form a friendship with Miss Bingley, if Lady Alice will receive her rightful punishment and how the Darcy’s will bring their magic into battle. Luckily, I know a sequel is in the works, and I can only hope it is released very shortly, because I am eager to read it.
Summing up, Dangerous Magic is a book no one should miss! It is a well written and engrossing story that creates a universe difficult to forget. It is one of my favourite books this year and I highly recommend it to everyone! If you love books around magic, you’ll be hooked with this one, and if you don’t, well…let’s just say that is about to change 🙂
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
Dangerous Magic is not the typical book I would eagerly wait to read because I am not much into magic, however, everything in it is so perfect, that after reading it, I am now eagerly anticipating the sequel to be transported into this this magical realm once more.
I’ve read a few books that have magic elements in it, but Dangerous Magic is in a completely different league and stands out from all others. Unlike other books, the magic element in Dangerous Magic is not something that is simply added to a Darcy and Elizabeth story, it is the story itself, which makes the plot much more interesting and compelling in my perspective. I can easily see this book becoming part of a long term series, and I can see the resemblance it has to the appeal Harry Potter generated in millions of readers.
In Dangerous Magic the war between England and France is not fought by the usual military soldiers, it is fought by their best mages, and England is losing ground being almost dependent on Mr. Darcy, one of its strongest mages. However, he is a Janus Mage, which means that for him to be at his best, he must be paired with a “twin” mage. With only a few other mages compatible with Mr. Darcy’s magic, and being Elizabeth Bennet his best match, she is called to serve her country. However, she is not just required to fight the French, she is required to marry Mr. Darcy, a man she never met before.
Even though the story starts out with a forced marriage scenario, it doesn’t follow the usual plot lines we are used to. First, the main focus is not the marriage itself, but the bonding that needs to be created between Elizabeth and Darcy for them to be ready for the war against France. Secondly, instead of having one of them resenting the other because of the marriage, we see Elizabeth and Darcy joining forces to achieve a common goal. They have different views on how magic can be used, but their love for their country and their sense of duty, will bring them together, and slowly, they start seeing how their opposite views will make them stronger. I loved to see how resilient Elizabeth and Darcy’s connection was and how their love slowly grew into something bigger then themselves. I felt they could conquer everything as long as they were working together.
Most scenes in this book are placed at Founder’s Hall, where the most talented mages of the country are training to be ready for battle, and I loved everything about that place. I loved the existing rules and habits, the different rooms of the Hall, which were vivid in my mind due to Monica Fairview’s excellent writing, and most of all, I loved getting to know the different types of mages that exist. It made perfect sense for some mages to be specialised on attack, others to specialise on defensive spells, and also for healers to be around to care for the ones fighting in the front lines. This entire magic background made the book enthralling.
Another aspect I loved in Dangerous Magic was how Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth’s personalities were so well adjusted to the type of magic they practised. It was only logical that Mr. Darcy practises an academic magic, which follows the rules and requires a lot of study to memorize spells, while Elizabeth’s magic is more self-governed and based on instinct. Their strength and worthiness was proved in the final battle, and were it not for their divergent yet compatible gifts, all would be lost. I felt transported into this world and I was fighting alongside Darcy and Elizabeth on that last battle. Not every book can make me feel inside the story, but Dangerous Magic did that from the first word to the last one.
Darcy was in essentials the same we see in canon, except that in this book he is probably the only Mage who can save England from Napolean, giving him an additional charm that will certainly appeal to all readers. And Elizabeth’s character was pure perfection. I loved everything about her, but especially her resilience and ability to adapt to new and trying situations.
Dangerous Magic is a book that transports its readers into a wonderful new realm full of excitement. It is so well written that each scene is vivid and appears to be happening right in front of us. The magic element, the Hall, the war with Napolean and Elizabeth and Darcy’s romance all blend into an engaging story that I could not put down. I read this book non-stop and when I finished reading it, I felt the immediate need to either re-read it or read a sequel. I wanted to keep fighting the French mages with Darcy and Elizabeth, and even though it is a standalone, I wanted to know if they will win the war, if Elizabeth will form a friendship with Miss Bingley, if Lady Alice will receive her rightful punishment and how the Darcy’s will bring their magic into battle. Luckily, I know a sequel is in the works, and I can only hope it is released very shortly, because I am eager to read it.
Summing up, Dangerous Magic is a book no one should miss! It is a well written and engrossing story that creates a universe difficult to forget. It is one of my favourite books this year and I highly recommend it to everyone! If you love books around magic, you’ll be hooked with this one, and if you don’t, well…let’s just say that is about to change 🙂
March 21, 2021
I didn't have an idea what this was about when I said yes, because as you all might have seen, I do love Pride and Prejudice variations.
Alternative England where there is magic, and England is slowly loosing the war against the French. The English are strict and all True Blood magic! While the French conscripts everyone.
Elizabeth has been taught magic at home, she is opinionated, free and when told she has to go and become a mage, and marry. Well she is pretty upset.
Darcy is the same proud Darcy and he does worry about his bloodline, and he is not too happy either.
Oh and there is this horrible woman that is all bloodlines! And more. Ugh, Lady Alice was the worst. We also meet the Bingleys, even Caroline was pretty nice, mostly cos they did not have those precious bloodlines so she was pretty decent.
There is magic, blossoming romance, danger, the French! And all in all an interesting twist to the story. I even felt it was too short, I mean there must be more right? I mean the French! Will they bet the French or will Napoleon invade or something? So I do hope she writes more (I really should go google this).
An interesting P variation, you do not need to know the story (I tell this to Jen ;) Just follow along and experience the magic.
Alternative England where there is magic, and England is slowly loosing the war against the French. The English are strict and all True Blood magic! While the French conscripts everyone.
Elizabeth has been taught magic at home, she is opinionated, free and when told she has to go and become a mage, and marry. Well she is pretty upset.
Darcy is the same proud Darcy and he does worry about his bloodline, and he is not too happy either.
Oh and there is this horrible woman that is all bloodlines! And more. Ugh, Lady Alice was the worst. We also meet the Bingleys, even Caroline was pretty nice, mostly cos they did not have those precious bloodlines so she was pretty decent.
There is magic, blossoming romance, danger, the French! And all in all an interesting twist to the story. I even felt it was too short, I mean there must be more right? I mean the French! Will they bet the French or will Napoleon invade or something? So I do hope she writes more (I really should go google this).
An interesting P variation, you do not need to know the story (I tell this to Jen ;) Just follow along and experience the magic.
March 22, 2021
I've heard this novel is like a Harry Potter/P&P mash-up, but since I've never read HP and never will, that part is of no consequence to me. I do hope that HP is more complex in magic and architecture descriptions than this book was, because this is why it's only 4.5 stars, rounded to 5.
Sometimes I had no clue what rooms were where in the book, and that's sad, because the author's job is to set the scene so the reader doesn't have to stop and scratch their head and read back to see if they missed anything, never mind that scene-setting is a lovely tool to get the reader "feeling" the story. This was a big faux pas.
As for the magic, it was wards, wards, wards. Although there was a war taking place, the magic didn't even seem nearly as dangerous as the title implies, as the whole concept seemed pretty straightforward to me, a neophyte in reading books with magic in them. There were places where I was confused as to who was doing what, and clarification came later, though.
I won't go through the book and point out every detail. The summary and spoiler approach is not my style of review. Instead, I'll comment on general technical proficiency.
This book must have had an editor, because for the most part the editing was good. But there were some big misses. For example, "dust moats," and pouring for poring, and the maid whose name was Emily then Amy. Non-Regency words or words misused in the Regency sense included trousseau, "taken aback," outing, staff, and the American roiling. This is a low number of words for a JAFF. The author used filter words and -ly adverbs with said, telling where she should have been showing. She also used some head-hopping. 19 contractions were found by this reviewer. That's not too many, but they were mostly from the mouths of higher-classed characters. Austen rarely used contractions for other than less refined characters, e.g., Lydia and Mrs. Bennet.
When I shelved this book, I almost shelved it under "no sex, no violence," but it has its fair share of violence, and the author could have done better to have empathy for the victims. In one case, she made him into a fool for his weakness. I suppose when this is war, there should be no weakness, but it's a fine line to tread.
I found no plot holes, but those more familiar with the magic may have done. The twist with the ring was cleverly accomplished. Characterizations were consistent and well-drawn. Some were non-canon, and that was okay since it was well justified in this novel. The development of the romance was believable and consistent and worked well throughout the time-line.
The cover is excellent, both for its ability to catch the eye of the reader among other covers and to convey a sense of what's inside. The colour choices are especially striking, as they seem to work well with the sense of impending danger that the author wishes to portray.
The book is the first of a series, yet it's totally a stand-alone novel. This is important to me, since I think any book that doesn't have a fully completed plot line within its covers and expects the reader to pay for the next book to get the ending is a cash grab. This book promises a new story after this one while giving the reader a complete story arc with HEA and satisfying ending.
To sum up, as a new reader to paranormal Regency romance, this book fit the bill quite well, and would have been better if a clearer sense of place and more interesting magic had been part of its excellent story. Otherwise, it's technically well-written, as it should be, since the author is not only well-experienced, but highly regarded and award winning. It had elements of fun and excitement that kept me engaged throughout the read. I'd recommend it to any JAFF reader.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF writer and some might consider this review to be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
Sometimes I had no clue what rooms were where in the book, and that's sad, because the author's job is to set the scene so the reader doesn't have to stop and scratch their head and read back to see if they missed anything, never mind that scene-setting is a lovely tool to get the reader "feeling" the story. This was a big faux pas.
As for the magic, it was wards, wards, wards. Although there was a war taking place, the magic didn't even seem nearly as dangerous as the title implies, as the whole concept seemed pretty straightforward to me, a neophyte in reading books with magic in them. There were places where I was confused as to who was doing what, and clarification came later, though.
I won't go through the book and point out every detail. The summary and spoiler approach is not my style of review. Instead, I'll comment on general technical proficiency.
This book must have had an editor, because for the most part the editing was good. But there were some big misses. For example, "dust moats," and pouring for poring, and the maid whose name was Emily then Amy. Non-Regency words or words misused in the Regency sense included trousseau, "taken aback," outing, staff, and the American roiling. This is a low number of words for a JAFF. The author used filter words and -ly adverbs with said, telling where she should have been showing. She also used some head-hopping. 19 contractions were found by this reviewer. That's not too many, but they were mostly from the mouths of higher-classed characters. Austen rarely used contractions for other than less refined characters, e.g., Lydia and Mrs. Bennet.
When I shelved this book, I almost shelved it under "no sex, no violence," but it has its fair share of violence, and the author could have done better to have empathy for the victims. In one case, she made him into a fool for his weakness. I suppose when this is war, there should be no weakness, but it's a fine line to tread.
I found no plot holes, but those more familiar with the magic may have done. The twist with the ring was cleverly accomplished. Characterizations were consistent and well-drawn. Some were non-canon, and that was okay since it was well justified in this novel. The development of the romance was believable and consistent and worked well throughout the time-line.
The cover is excellent, both for its ability to catch the eye of the reader among other covers and to convey a sense of what's inside. The colour choices are especially striking, as they seem to work well with the sense of impending danger that the author wishes to portray.
The book is the first of a series, yet it's totally a stand-alone novel. This is important to me, since I think any book that doesn't have a fully completed plot line within its covers and expects the reader to pay for the next book to get the ending is a cash grab. This book promises a new story after this one while giving the reader a complete story arc with HEA and satisfying ending.
To sum up, as a new reader to paranormal Regency romance, this book fit the bill quite well, and would have been better if a clearer sense of place and more interesting magic had been part of its excellent story. Otherwise, it's technically well-written, as it should be, since the author is not only well-experienced, but highly regarded and award winning. It had elements of fun and excitement that kept me engaged throughout the read. I'd recommend it to any JAFF reader.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF writer and some might consider this review to be a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write them for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
November 2, 2021
Hmm, this was disappointing. I think my main gripe was that mentions of the magic were not descriptive enough, there wasn't enough magic in general. The writing wasn't vivid enough for me to feel the urgency of the war, either. I think the plot was zoomed in too much to the runaround that was Darcy and Elizabeth trying to magically Bond. Over and over.
It was also absolutely ridiculous that they were like SLEEPING TOGETHER will INSTANTLY impregnate Elizabeth, lmao, so avoided it. Did the writer just not want to approach smut? There's ways around it.
The narrator was not my favorite and the tones used kind of made everything feel cheesy. Unfortunate. But it wasn't horrible! 3 stars.
It was also absolutely ridiculous that they were like SLEEPING TOGETHER will INSTANTLY impregnate Elizabeth, lmao, so avoided it. Did the writer just not want to approach smut? There's ways around it.
The narrator was not my favorite and the tones used kind of made everything feel cheesy. Unfortunate. But it wasn't horrible! 3 stars.
April 26, 2021
4.5 stars. Wow, this book is a real page turner that was difficult to put down. The entertainment value is fabulous and I found it very engaging and enjoyable! It was a lot of fun to add a little, okay- a lot, of magic to make a fantastical P&P.
This wasn’t so much a variation as instead of varying or tweaking the story, it is completely different from canon. Darcy and Elizabeth have never met, but they are both powerful Mages with unique skills that cause them to be paired in both magic and matrimony to help defeat the Napoleon and restore peace. As can be imagined, this idea goes over like a lead balloon, but ultimately, both are persuaded to put crown and country first and reluctantly agree to the match. It was refreshing to encounter some fresh blood in the way of antagonists. I’ve lately grown tired of the reading about evil Wickham and Lady Catherine and both are almost completely absent from this story.
My only real complaints here are, #1-I felt that the relationship angst between E&D was stretched out a bit too much regarding their marriage.
#2- Darcy’s behavior after Elizabeth was sent away was confusing to me. He leaves Guild Hall and returns to Pemberley without a word to Elizabeth knowing she was in limbo. Not an update to her on her the council’s decision regarding her case, not a word about the state of their marriage. Nothing, he just goes home to apparently move on and forget her and apparently did just that, forget her and her feelings the fact that she would want to know what was happening. That didn’t make sense to me. They were married, at the very least, a letter or some sort of communication would have been perfectly appropriate even if he chose not to visit.
This was such a great story and I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone who doesn’t mind a little magic mixed with a little Darcy! 🥰 Can’t wait for the sequel!
This wasn’t so much a variation as instead of varying or tweaking the story, it is completely different from canon. Darcy and Elizabeth have never met, but they are both powerful Mages with unique skills that cause them to be paired in both magic and matrimony to help defeat the Napoleon and restore peace. As can be imagined, this idea goes over like a lead balloon, but ultimately, both are persuaded to put crown and country first and reluctantly agree to the match. It was refreshing to encounter some fresh blood in the way of antagonists. I’ve lately grown tired of the reading about evil Wickham and Lady Catherine and both are almost completely absent from this story.
My only real complaints here are, #1-I felt that the relationship angst between E&D was stretched out a bit too much regarding their marriage.
#2- Darcy’s behavior after Elizabeth was sent away was confusing to me. He leaves Guild Hall and returns to Pemberley without a word to Elizabeth knowing she was in limbo. Not an update to her on her the council’s decision regarding her case, not a word about the state of their marriage. Nothing, he just goes home to apparently move on and forget her and apparently did just that, forget her and her feelings the fact that she would want to know what was happening. That didn’t make sense to me. They were married, at the very least, a letter or some sort of communication would have been perfectly appropriate even if he chose not to visit.
This was such a great story and I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone who doesn’t mind a little magic mixed with a little Darcy! 🥰 Can’t wait for the sequel!
August 11, 2025
I just finished racing through Dangerous Magic, and this book was amazing!! I meant to read just a little bit the day I received it through a blog giveaway, and then I looked up and noticed that I had read 23% all in one sitting!! WOW!!! This book was a page-turner for sure!! I didn't just want to read it; I was *compelled* to read it!! Are we sure there was no actual magic involved? ;)
In this book, Darcy is part of the Royal Mages who are extremely busy fighting the French Mages during the Napoleonic Wars. While the military battles continue in Europe, the French Mages have attacked the Royal Mages' Guild Hall in London, forcing the British Mages out of the city and into a place in the countryside. Elizabeth, a mostly self-taught Mage, is thought to be the only person who could take the place of Darcy's fellow Janus Mage (who worked in twos through a Bonding). Forced into a relationship that neither of them want, sparks immediately start flying between the two of them. But they must learn to work together very quickly, or England will lose the long-fought war against the French.
I gave this book a "5" which is a rarity I usually save for classic novels such as Jane Eyre, etc. But goodness!! This book was turned up to an 11 for sure!! I was caught up in the novel in the first chapter and simply couldn't put it down!!
I cannot recommend this book highly enough!! It is simply riveting!! :D
In this book, Darcy is part of the Royal Mages who are extremely busy fighting the French Mages during the Napoleonic Wars. While the military battles continue in Europe, the French Mages have attacked the Royal Mages' Guild Hall in London, forcing the British Mages out of the city and into a place in the countryside. Elizabeth, a mostly self-taught Mage, is thought to be the only person who could take the place of Darcy's fellow Janus Mage (who worked in twos through a Bonding). Forced into a relationship that neither of them want, sparks immediately start flying between the two of them. But they must learn to work together very quickly, or England will lose the long-fought war against the French.
I gave this book a "5" which is a rarity I usually save for classic novels such as Jane Eyre, etc. But goodness!! This book was turned up to an 11 for sure!! I was caught up in the novel in the first chapter and simply couldn't put it down!!
I cannot recommend this book highly enough!! It is simply riveting!! :D
March 15, 2021
I was a bit hesitant when picking this book up (oh well, who am I kidding — I pre-ordered it as soon as I saw the title), since I've been disappointed with many Jane Austen retellings before. However, this time I definitely wasn't!
The magic system was intriguing and added a new twist to the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy, and I have to admit that the war in the background was also very well woven into the story. The slow-burn was delicious, the plot had some delightful and well-built twists and the ending was satisfying but left me eager to read more. I was particularly happy with the fact that although this book is a first part of the series, there was no irritating cliffhanger in the end.
A pleasant, entertaining read.
(And yes: I had to read all of it during one day, so. Make of that what you will.)
The magic system was intriguing and added a new twist to the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy, and I have to admit that the war in the background was also very well woven into the story. The slow-burn was delicious, the plot had some delightful and well-built twists and the ending was satisfying but left me eager to read more. I was particularly happy with the fact that although this book is a first part of the series, there was no irritating cliffhanger in the end.
A pleasant, entertaining read.
(And yes: I had to read all of it during one day, so. Make of that what you will.)
February 17, 2022
This story features a force marriage, but not due to compromise - instead it is magic. Elizabeth Bennet has strong but not classically trained skills and is forced to marry to pair up with another strong mage - Fitzwilliam Darcy. They suffer through misunderstandings, fears, friends and foes all wrapped up in a world of magic to find their happily ever after.
I could not put this book down!
2022: Read it again in prep for volume #2 = still amazing!
I could not put this book down!
2022: Read it again in prep for volume #2 = still amazing!
March 16, 2021
I love Darcy and Elisabeth with magic!!!!
And even the Bingleys. Oh how I wish the next book was ready for publication. I Love tgis so much.
And even the Bingleys. Oh how I wish the next book was ready for publication. I Love tgis so much.
July 16, 2022
What If Darcy and Elizabeth Need to Marry to Save England?
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Fantasy
SERIES: Mr. Darcy’s Magic #1
SYNOPSIS: After a devastating attack from Napoleon and his powerful Mages, the Council of Royal Mages brings in an unknown and untrained woman by the name of Elizabeth Bennet to align herself (not only in battle, but in marriage!) with Fitzwilliam Darcy, a powerful Mage who just lost his longterm Janus Twin. Both Elizabeth and Darcy want nothing to do with each other and this mandate, but soon discover it is impossible for them to refuse serving their king and country…
MY THOUGHTS:
Immediately spellbinding! This story launches off with excitement, intrigue, and conflict. It is completely outside of the typical Pride and Prejudice canon and centers upon a wondrous world where magic exists, Darcy and Elizabeth are in a forced marriage situation, and the war with Napoleon is taking center stage.
I thoroughly loved both the magical elements infused in this tale and the magical world Monica Fairview constructed. The practicing of magic and the different rolls and abilities each Mage possessed was fascinating to learn about. I enjoyed learning about “bonding” and seeing how power is harnessed and utilized in battle. With the derision of non “True Bloods,” a revered academy for training young Mages, and a council serving as a governing body for the magic community this magical world feels reminiscent to the wizarding world of Harry Potter. I especially felt some Hogwarts vibes seeing Darcy and Elizabeth reside in a great big enclave together with other Mages. With separate halls for sleeping, eating, studying, and nursing – it was easy to picture Founder’s Hall to be just as sprawling and brimming with people and magic as Hogwarts.
Another element I loved about this story was the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. They are both thrust into impossible circumstances and, as you might expect, begin to exhibit some of their same flaws of prejudice and mistaken assumptions. So you can imagine how slowly any sort of amicability or partnership develops. And in addition to learning to understand each other better they have a more imperative challenge to deal with first – how to bond their magic so they can work together as Janus Twins.
I enjoyed witnessing their struggles through this challenge – how different were their approaches to magic (Mr. Darcy is classically trained from the Academy, where as Elizabeth was informally educated by her father), how Darcy was obstinate and rigid in following the set protocols for magic, and how Elizabeth believed their problems stemmed from a more emotional and mental block than inept ability. In addition, I loved that when the romance finally develops between these two, it was both deliciously sweet and exquisitely heart-wrenching!
CONCLUSION:
With intense danger, unfathomable complications, and burgeoning affections Dangerous Magic is a most compelling and exhilarating Pride and Prejudice adventure! I am completely bewitched by Monica Fairview’s magically woven Pride and Prejudice world and I cannot wait to visit it again!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation Fantasy
SERIES: Mr. Darcy’s Magic #1
SYNOPSIS: After a devastating attack from Napoleon and his powerful Mages, the Council of Royal Mages brings in an unknown and untrained woman by the name of Elizabeth Bennet to align herself (not only in battle, but in marriage!) with Fitzwilliam Darcy, a powerful Mage who just lost his longterm Janus Twin. Both Elizabeth and Darcy want nothing to do with each other and this mandate, but soon discover it is impossible for them to refuse serving their king and country…
MY THOUGHTS:
Immediately spellbinding! This story launches off with excitement, intrigue, and conflict. It is completely outside of the typical Pride and Prejudice canon and centers upon a wondrous world where magic exists, Darcy and Elizabeth are in a forced marriage situation, and the war with Napoleon is taking center stage.
I thoroughly loved both the magical elements infused in this tale and the magical world Monica Fairview constructed. The practicing of magic and the different rolls and abilities each Mage possessed was fascinating to learn about. I enjoyed learning about “bonding” and seeing how power is harnessed and utilized in battle. With the derision of non “True Bloods,” a revered academy for training young Mages, and a council serving as a governing body for the magic community this magical world feels reminiscent to the wizarding world of Harry Potter. I especially felt some Hogwarts vibes seeing Darcy and Elizabeth reside in a great big enclave together with other Mages. With separate halls for sleeping, eating, studying, and nursing – it was easy to picture Founder’s Hall to be just as sprawling and brimming with people and magic as Hogwarts.
Another element I loved about this story was the relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth. They are both thrust into impossible circumstances and, as you might expect, begin to exhibit some of their same flaws of prejudice and mistaken assumptions. So you can imagine how slowly any sort of amicability or partnership develops. And in addition to learning to understand each other better they have a more imperative challenge to deal with first – how to bond their magic so they can work together as Janus Twins.
I enjoyed witnessing their struggles through this challenge – how different were their approaches to magic (Mr. Darcy is classically trained from the Academy, where as Elizabeth was informally educated by her father), how Darcy was obstinate and rigid in following the set protocols for magic, and how Elizabeth believed their problems stemmed from a more emotional and mental block than inept ability. In addition, I loved that when the romance finally develops between these two, it was both deliciously sweet and exquisitely heart-wrenching!
CONCLUSION:
With intense danger, unfathomable complications, and burgeoning affections Dangerous Magic is a most compelling and exhilarating Pride and Prejudice adventure! I am completely bewitched by Monica Fairview’s magically woven Pride and Prejudice world and I cannot wait to visit it again!
Austenesque Reviews
April 1, 2021
Entertaining
I do like the magic angle in a P&P variation, and I've read several. This one is good, not great, and Monica Fairview is a talented author who knows how to tell a compelling story. During the war against Napoleon, the magical and powerful mages are front and center, and have a vital role in the war effort. Darcy is, of course, a powerful and important Royal Mage, a member of an elite guild , but his power can be greatly enhanced if they find him a "twin" to bond with.
Several members of the Bennett family have magic, including Elizabeth, who is eventually determined to be a good match for Darcy's magic, even though she's not a "true blood," and even though she's never attended a magic academy. These facts color Darcy's attitude towards Elizabeth, and he's not happy to be paired with her, especially since the pairing involves marriage. However, in the name of the war effort, they agree to try.
We go through all of the usual acrimony that characterizes Darcy and Elizabeth's initial relationship, and naturally it's an extremely bumpy road, what with all of the tensions and fears of imminent attack by the enemy. Luckily, the author allows for some softening up of both parties before too much time has passed, otherwise this would have been a pretty depressing tale. It still is kind of depressing, because there are so many really mean people at this guild, people who don't want Elizabeth to succeed.
Perhaps the most disappointing thing for me was the lack of development of feeling between Elizabeth and Darcy. For a long time they don't like each other, then after a nighttime boat ride together, suddenly they have peace and harmony. It seemed too precipitous, with no good reason for the change. I didn't feel the chemistry of a build up to something better.
Once ODC started liking each other, the romance was lovely, in spite of the pall cast over all of it by the wartime situation. The descriptions of the magic were very nice. There are appearances in the story of some familiar characters, Charles and Caroline Bingley, Lord Matlock and Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine. Makes me wonder if Wickham is going to show up in the next installment.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it as an interesting story, an original idea, and a good author.
I do like the magic angle in a P&P variation, and I've read several. This one is good, not great, and Monica Fairview is a talented author who knows how to tell a compelling story. During the war against Napoleon, the magical and powerful mages are front and center, and have a vital role in the war effort. Darcy is, of course, a powerful and important Royal Mage, a member of an elite guild , but his power can be greatly enhanced if they find him a "twin" to bond with.
Several members of the Bennett family have magic, including Elizabeth, who is eventually determined to be a good match for Darcy's magic, even though she's not a "true blood," and even though she's never attended a magic academy. These facts color Darcy's attitude towards Elizabeth, and he's not happy to be paired with her, especially since the pairing involves marriage. However, in the name of the war effort, they agree to try.
We go through all of the usual acrimony that characterizes Darcy and Elizabeth's initial relationship, and naturally it's an extremely bumpy road, what with all of the tensions and fears of imminent attack by the enemy. Luckily, the author allows for some softening up of both parties before too much time has passed, otherwise this would have been a pretty depressing tale. It still is kind of depressing, because there are so many really mean people at this guild, people who don't want Elizabeth to succeed.
Perhaps the most disappointing thing for me was the lack of development of feeling between Elizabeth and Darcy. For a long time they don't like each other, then after a nighttime boat ride together, suddenly they have peace and harmony. It seemed too precipitous, with no good reason for the change. I didn't feel the chemistry of a build up to something better.
Once ODC started liking each other, the romance was lovely, in spite of the pall cast over all of it by the wartime situation. The descriptions of the magic were very nice. There are appearances in the story of some familiar characters, Charles and Caroline Bingley, Lord Matlock and Colonel Fitzwilliam, Lady Catherine. Makes me wonder if Wickham is going to show up in the next installment.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it as an interesting story, an original idea, and a good author.
April 23, 2024
In this Pride and Prejudice magic variation Bennet and four of his daughters have various levels of magic talents. But it is Elizabeth who is taken by The Royal Mages as she is needed as a Janus Mage with Darcy. Nether of them wish this but it is needed if the Kingdom is to defeat Napoleon’s mages. Didn't really find either of them likeable.
An enjoyable story.
An enjoyable story.
April 5, 2021
The world of Austenesque stories has expanded exponentially in recent years, and now enthusiasts of Jane Austen fan fiction (JAFF) can treat themselves to fantasy versions of their beloved novels. There’s even a delightful new Facebook group dedicated to the subgenre: Fantasy Reads for Austen Fans. Bestselling author Monica Fairview is the latest creator in this whimsical realm with her imaginative Pride and Prejudice variation, Dangerous Magic.
Fitzwilliam Darcy has the weight of the Kingdom on his shoulders. As an elite and formidable Royal Mage, he is destined to help save England by winning the war against Napoleon and his ever-increasing army of French mages. “Darcy wondered if there had ever been a moment in his life when he could have forged his own path. He had always been guided by duty, honor, and good principles, and he had never thought to question their hold on his life.” (17) Trained from childhood as a true-blooded mage at the exclusive Royal Academy, Darcy is well-versed in the textbook spells—but they’re not strong enough, and England is on the verge of being overtaken. Darcy needs to Bond with a Janus Twin—an equally powerful mage, thus doubling their magical strength—if the Kingdom has any chance of surviving Napoleon’s attack. But such mages are exceedingly rare, and time is running out.
Elizabeth Bennet has been raised in the countryside, instinctively developing her magical skills without any formal training and only vaguely aware of the war being fought on English soil. Her life changes dramatically on the day the Royal Mages arrive to enlist her services for King and Country. “Conscripted. A heavy sense of dread had lodged inside Elizabeth, along with a prickling of fear. What if she had to be in a battle? What if they sent her to fight in France?” (95) Although she is not a true-blooded mage, she is extraordinarily talented, and she has become their last, best hope for saving England from the French.
The challenging circumstances escalate when it’s decided that, due to the extensive amount of training time they must spend together, an unmarried man and woman cannot form a magical Bond as Janus Twins without utterly ruining the woman’s reputation, and therefore, Darcy and Elizabeth will be forced to marry for the benefit of the war effort. Darcy is bitter. “An insignificant young lady, from an insignificant family, and an even more insignificant village? …All I can hope for is that she is at least tolerably pretty.” (54) Elizabeth feels trapped. “Serving as a mage for a few years was one thing. Being bound to a stranger for a lifetime with no possibility of escape was quite another.” (249)
Sparks fly—literally—and the volatile situation becomes ever more dire as they fight with each other, as well as against mysterious forces determined to keep them apart, and the French mages continue to hunt for a battle. When the dust settles, will Darcy and Elizabeth reign victorious?
This book was an absolute page-turner from start to finish. My only complaint is that it felt like it ended too soon—mostly because I read it so quickly and couldn’t put it down—and I want to read a sequel posthaste. Imagine my delight when I discovered that this book, although easily a stand-alone story, is the first in a series and a sequel is, in fact, forthcoming. The story was so immersive and had such a cinematic feel to it that I wish I could see a film adaptation. The creative yet believable world-building was enhanced by beautifully descriptive explanations of the magic used. It was fascinating to see the wealthy, upper-class ladies and gentlemen working together with a real purpose, instead of their usual leisure pursuits. I also enjoyed the apt depiction of Janus, the Roman god with two faces, representing beginnings and transitions. Our courageous Lizzy was her usual obstinate, headstrong self, with some impressive magical talents making her a truly accomplished young lady. Taciturn Darcy was just as proud and prejudiced as ever, with the added bonus of his role as an esteemed Royal Mage to make him that much more dutiful to tradition and reluctant to change. Their fiery interactions were, dare I say, magical.
Dangerous Magic is an enchanting tale that will charm both Austen enthusiasts and fantasy fans in equal measure.
5 out of 5 Stars
https://austenprose.com/2021/04/05/da...
Fitzwilliam Darcy has the weight of the Kingdom on his shoulders. As an elite and formidable Royal Mage, he is destined to help save England by winning the war against Napoleon and his ever-increasing army of French mages. “Darcy wondered if there had ever been a moment in his life when he could have forged his own path. He had always been guided by duty, honor, and good principles, and he had never thought to question their hold on his life.” (17) Trained from childhood as a true-blooded mage at the exclusive Royal Academy, Darcy is well-versed in the textbook spells—but they’re not strong enough, and England is on the verge of being overtaken. Darcy needs to Bond with a Janus Twin—an equally powerful mage, thus doubling their magical strength—if the Kingdom has any chance of surviving Napoleon’s attack. But such mages are exceedingly rare, and time is running out.
Elizabeth Bennet has been raised in the countryside, instinctively developing her magical skills without any formal training and only vaguely aware of the war being fought on English soil. Her life changes dramatically on the day the Royal Mages arrive to enlist her services for King and Country. “Conscripted. A heavy sense of dread had lodged inside Elizabeth, along with a prickling of fear. What if she had to be in a battle? What if they sent her to fight in France?” (95) Although she is not a true-blooded mage, she is extraordinarily talented, and she has become their last, best hope for saving England from the French.
The challenging circumstances escalate when it’s decided that, due to the extensive amount of training time they must spend together, an unmarried man and woman cannot form a magical Bond as Janus Twins without utterly ruining the woman’s reputation, and therefore, Darcy and Elizabeth will be forced to marry for the benefit of the war effort. Darcy is bitter. “An insignificant young lady, from an insignificant family, and an even more insignificant village? …All I can hope for is that she is at least tolerably pretty.” (54) Elizabeth feels trapped. “Serving as a mage for a few years was one thing. Being bound to a stranger for a lifetime with no possibility of escape was quite another.” (249)
Sparks fly—literally—and the volatile situation becomes ever more dire as they fight with each other, as well as against mysterious forces determined to keep them apart, and the French mages continue to hunt for a battle. When the dust settles, will Darcy and Elizabeth reign victorious?
This book was an absolute page-turner from start to finish. My only complaint is that it felt like it ended too soon—mostly because I read it so quickly and couldn’t put it down—and I want to read a sequel posthaste. Imagine my delight when I discovered that this book, although easily a stand-alone story, is the first in a series and a sequel is, in fact, forthcoming. The story was so immersive and had such a cinematic feel to it that I wish I could see a film adaptation. The creative yet believable world-building was enhanced by beautifully descriptive explanations of the magic used. It was fascinating to see the wealthy, upper-class ladies and gentlemen working together with a real purpose, instead of their usual leisure pursuits. I also enjoyed the apt depiction of Janus, the Roman god with two faces, representing beginnings and transitions. Our courageous Lizzy was her usual obstinate, headstrong self, with some impressive magical talents making her a truly accomplished young lady. Taciturn Darcy was just as proud and prejudiced as ever, with the added bonus of his role as an esteemed Royal Mage to make him that much more dutiful to tradition and reluctant to change. Their fiery interactions were, dare I say, magical.
Dangerous Magic is an enchanting tale that will charm both Austen enthusiasts and fantasy fans in equal measure.
5 out of 5 Stars
https://austenprose.com/2021/04/05/da...
March 25, 2021
What is your favorite retelling of a classic tale?
In an alternate Regency era, England is in a war with France and losing. In order to project England, Elizabeth Bennet is plucked from her family at their country estate at Longbourn and brought to the Guild Hall in London. Once there she is expected to marry and bond with the powerful Royal Mage, Fitzwilliam Darcy. She has always hoped to marry for love and is unhappy over this forced union. Will Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love? Will they be able to bond and protect England?
I enjoyed this new spin on a classic tale. Monica Fairview understands and perfectly writes the characters from Pride and Prejudice. It’s amazing reading how true they are to their original characters, but in this new magical setting. The story was unique, but familiar and I really enjoyed it. I was just sad it ended but was pleased to see that this is the first in a series and there will be a Book 2 of Jane Austen’s Mages. I look forward to it.
I also loved the reimaging of some of the side characters, in particular Caroline Bingley. I thought it was interesting that the book focused on “bloodlines” and how many people were obsessed on being of noble pure blood in order to be the best Mage. It seems like Mr. Darcy would think along these lines, but he is friends with the Bingleys. I liked this and how Elizabeth in turn defies everyone’s expectations of her.
Overall, Dangerous Magic is a fun magical reimagining of Pride and Prejudice. I loved the story and the characters!
Book Source: Review Copy from author Monica Fairview. Thank-you!
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2021...
In an alternate Regency era, England is in a war with France and losing. In order to project England, Elizabeth Bennet is plucked from her family at their country estate at Longbourn and brought to the Guild Hall in London. Once there she is expected to marry and bond with the powerful Royal Mage, Fitzwilliam Darcy. She has always hoped to marry for love and is unhappy over this forced union. Will Darcy and Elizabeth fall in love? Will they be able to bond and protect England?
I enjoyed this new spin on a classic tale. Monica Fairview understands and perfectly writes the characters from Pride and Prejudice. It’s amazing reading how true they are to their original characters, but in this new magical setting. The story was unique, but familiar and I really enjoyed it. I was just sad it ended but was pleased to see that this is the first in a series and there will be a Book 2 of Jane Austen’s Mages. I look forward to it.
I also loved the reimaging of some of the side characters, in particular Caroline Bingley. I thought it was interesting that the book focused on “bloodlines” and how many people were obsessed on being of noble pure blood in order to be the best Mage. It seems like Mr. Darcy would think along these lines, but he is friends with the Bingleys. I liked this and how Elizabeth in turn defies everyone’s expectations of her.
Overall, Dangerous Magic is a fun magical reimagining of Pride and Prejudice. I loved the story and the characters!
Book Source: Review Copy from author Monica Fairview. Thank-you!
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2021...
May 6, 2023
Creative
Wonderful creative variation in which Elizabeth is drafted to marry Darcy against her will because she is supposed to bond her magic with him to aid in the war effort. But something goes wrong and her magic resists his.
Wonderful creative variation in which Elizabeth is drafted to marry Darcy against her will because she is supposed to bond her magic with him to aid in the war effort. But something goes wrong and her magic resists his.
July 30, 2022
3 1/2 Stars - I loved this world inspired by Harry Potter and Pride and Prejudice. The characters have similar personalities to Pride and Prejudice, but the storyline doesn't really follow that book. Note that this is this is the first in a series and I suspect that you will have to read at least 3 books in order to see who wins in the battle against Napoleon. At the time I read this book, the 3rd book wasn't out yet. If I had known that, I might have held off on reading this one until it was.
Premise: In a magical Regency world, Elizabeth has been conscripted by the Royal Mages to marry Mr. Darcy in order to.... defeat Napoleon? Yes, the premise sounds strange, but it somehow works.
Even through battling Napoleon, magical Regency England is still very concerned with a lady's propriety. There are different types of Mages, one of which is a Janus Mage, that needs to be joined to a twin when they are in battle or they are at a pretty big risk of getting shot down by the enemy. Mr. Darcy is one of these types of Mages, but his twin was killed in a recent battle. They have tested people all over England, but it turns out that the only people who are compatible with him to be his twin are down to Elizabeth, someone who's a little off their rocker, and a 14 year old child. The magical council decides that Elizabeth is the least bad option, and given that it's still regency England, she couldn't work closely with Mr. Darcy alone as a woman unless they were married. Kind of a convoluted way to get to the forced marriage plot within this magical world, but they do mostly make it work within the story.
It turns out that England's traditional view on how magic should be practiced might not be the best way, as they are being attacked pretty forcefully by the French Mages. Yet even through this, the council still insists on doing things the way they have always been done. Only Mr. Darcy's uncle, the Earl of Matlock, seems to realize that they need a new approach and to see how Elizabeth might be able to help with that.
Things I Liked:
- I mean - Harry Potter and Jane Austen ... what's not to like?
- Elizabeth and Darcy's banter as they try to work together is delightful, as is seeing their relationship grow from the forced marriage as they work together with literal sparks flying as they realize their feelings for each other.
Things I Didn't Like:
- The whole politics of doing magic in England in this book was a little strange. 4 out of the 5 Bennet girls showed magical ability, but when they were tested, they weren't offered to go to the magic schools. Apparently Mr. Bennet had left the Royal Mages because of some sort of a disagreement, so this might have been part of why they weren't pursued for education. When the Royal Mages realized that Elizabeth seemed to be the only option to serve as Janus Mage for Mr. Darcy, they all but forced her to marry him. She had been educated in magic on her own by her father, his books, and family friends. Instead of having someone, say, tutor her in their style of magic, they just assumed that she should do everything in the exact same way they did even though they hadn't bothered to train her. Anything that she did that was remotely different was seen as wrong. I get the set up of the Royal Mages being an adversary to Elizabeth and the Bennets, but it just felt like the way things were set up was really extreme.
**Possible Series Spoiler**:
Premise: In a magical Regency world, Elizabeth has been conscripted by the Royal Mages to marry Mr. Darcy in order to.... defeat Napoleon? Yes, the premise sounds strange, but it somehow works.
Even through battling Napoleon, magical Regency England is still very concerned with a lady's propriety. There are different types of Mages, one of which is a Janus Mage, that needs to be joined to a twin when they are in battle or they are at a pretty big risk of getting shot down by the enemy. Mr. Darcy is one of these types of Mages, but his twin was killed in a recent battle. They have tested people all over England, but it turns out that the only people who are compatible with him to be his twin are down to Elizabeth, someone who's a little off their rocker, and a 14 year old child. The magical council decides that Elizabeth is the least bad option, and given that it's still regency England, she couldn't work closely with Mr. Darcy alone as a woman unless they were married. Kind of a convoluted way to get to the forced marriage plot within this magical world, but they do mostly make it work within the story.
It turns out that England's traditional view on how magic should be practiced might not be the best way, as they are being attacked pretty forcefully by the French Mages. Yet even through this, the council still insists on doing things the way they have always been done. Only Mr. Darcy's uncle, the Earl of Matlock, seems to realize that they need a new approach and to see how Elizabeth might be able to help with that.
Things I Liked:
- I mean - Harry Potter and Jane Austen ... what's not to like?
- Elizabeth and Darcy's banter as they try to work together is delightful, as is seeing their relationship grow from the forced marriage as they work together with literal sparks flying as they realize their feelings for each other.
Things I Didn't Like:
- The whole politics of doing magic in England in this book was a little strange. 4 out of the 5 Bennet girls showed magical ability, but when they were tested, they weren't offered to go to the magic schools. Apparently Mr. Bennet had left the Royal Mages because of some sort of a disagreement, so this might have been part of why they weren't pursued for education. When the Royal Mages realized that Elizabeth seemed to be the only option to serve as Janus Mage for Mr. Darcy, they all but forced her to marry him. She had been educated in magic on her own by her father, his books, and family friends. Instead of having someone, say, tutor her in their style of magic, they just assumed that she should do everything in the exact same way they did even though they hadn't bothered to train her. Anything that she did that was remotely different was seen as wrong. I get the set up of the Royal Mages being an adversary to Elizabeth and the Bennets, but it just felt like the way things were set up was really extreme.
**Possible Series Spoiler**:
May 10, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
An imaginative approach to Austen’s characters that stays true to the heart of Darcy and Elizabeth’s conflicts and romance inside a wonderful magic system - battles included.
Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
An imaginative approach to Austen’s characters that stays true to the heart of Darcy and Elizabeth’s conflicts and romance inside a wonderful magic system - battles included.
Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 11, 2024
I was super bummed to not enjoy this. I read half and then skimmed another 15%, but the fact is there is no chemistry whatsoever and the plot is nonexistent.
Here’s the deal- if you have a great plot and steady pacing, then the book can still be enjoyable even if the chemistry is low.
Conversely, if there is amazing sexual tension, then the book can still be great even if there isn’t much of a plot.
But if there is literally nothing going on and there’s absolutely no spark between the characters? That’s just pure BOREDOM waiting to happen.
I wish I liked the main characters, but they are stilted and stiff in mannerisms and speech. I’m not connecting AT ALL.
The MMC considers kissing her at one point and I’m like, “Say what now? Since when have you felt even a hint of attraction for her????” Same goes for her. But I’m starting to be told that they are supposedly interested in each other. No, I’m not feeling it.
Content- no swearing, violence or sexuality.
I read this on KU
Here’s the deal- if you have a great plot and steady pacing, then the book can still be enjoyable even if the chemistry is low.
Conversely, if there is amazing sexual tension, then the book can still be great even if there isn’t much of a plot.
But if there is literally nothing going on and there’s absolutely no spark between the characters? That’s just pure BOREDOM waiting to happen.
I wish I liked the main characters, but they are stilted and stiff in mannerisms and speech. I’m not connecting AT ALL.
The MMC considers kissing her at one point and I’m like, “Say what now? Since when have you felt even a hint of attraction for her????” Same goes for her. But I’m starting to be told that they are supposedly interested in each other. No, I’m not feeling it.
Content- no swearing, violence or sexuality.
I read this on KU
March 8, 2024
2024: upgraded to 5 stars! I still can’t believe I love this book so much, as I’m not at all in this kind of fantasy plots usually. But here it works so well! It’s well written, just the right length, full of surprises and creative.
2021: Life can be surprising. I never excepted to like to a book (let alone to finish one) about mages and Wards but somehow I did.
The author kept the story simple yet original while keeping ODC recognisable. Well done!
I would have liked a little more passion earlier in the book but that’s all.
2021: Life can be surprising. I never excepted to like to a book (let alone to finish one) about mages and Wards but somehow I did.
The author kept the story simple yet original while keeping ODC recognisable. Well done!
I would have liked a little more passion earlier in the book but that’s all.
May 4, 2021
2.75 stars.
As a sucker for JAFF, I was intrigued by the premise of this series but wasn't sure what to expect from this new-to-me author. As it was, I found the writing simplistic, with the dialogue and monologue a bit didactic for my preference. The action scenes were also frustratingly vague, as I could never get a firm grasp on how the magic worked in this world. Maybe we'll get more details in the next book? Overall, I thought this to be very cute start. I hope the writing smooths out a bit and the author lets the nuances of the world she's created shine through.
As a sucker for JAFF, I was intrigued by the premise of this series but wasn't sure what to expect from this new-to-me author. As it was, I found the writing simplistic, with the dialogue and monologue a bit didactic for my preference. The action scenes were also frustratingly vague, as I could never get a firm grasp on how the magic worked in this world. Maybe we'll get more details in the next book? Overall, I thought this to be very cute start. I hope the writing smooths out a bit and the author lets the nuances of the world she's created shine through.
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February 25, 2021Review on March 12th.
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