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Love in Netherford #1
Netherford Hall
Pride and Prejudice and Witches
After a mysterious fire at their home in Regency London displaces Gentlewitch Edith Rookwood and her now much-reduced family to their ancestral seat of Netherford Hall in Kent, she faces a new threat in the form of her tenant—the chaotic and lovely Poppy Brightwell.
The repairs on the old pile are prohibitive, Edith’s standing is uncertain, and her inheritance has been challenged by a forgotten American branch of the family. It is clear she needs to marry, soon and wisely—but the lively girl from Harrow House gradually comes to occupy all of her thoughts.
As tenants, rivals, suitors and enemies start to circle Netherford, and dark secrets about both women’s pasts come to light, Edith and Poppy must confront what it means to fight for love and family, and to be their authentic selves.
After a mysterious fire at their home in Regency London displaces Gentlewitch Edith Rookwood and her now much-reduced family to their ancestral seat of Netherford Hall in Kent, she faces a new threat in the form of her tenant—the chaotic and lovely Poppy Brightwell.
The repairs on the old pile are prohibitive, Edith’s standing is uncertain, and her inheritance has been challenged by a forgotten American branch of the family. It is clear she needs to marry, soon and wisely—but the lively girl from Harrow House gradually comes to occupy all of her thoughts.
As tenants, rivals, suitors and enemies start to circle Netherford, and dark secrets about both women’s pasts come to light, Edith and Poppy must confront what it means to fight for love and family, and to be their authentic selves.
360 pages, Paperback
First published August 13, 2024
22 people are currently reading
678 people want to read
About the author
Natania Barron
38 books198 followersNatania Barron is a writer with a penchant for the speculative; she is also an unrepentant geek. Her work has appeared in Weird Tales, EscapePod, The Gatehouse Gazette, Thaumatrope, Bull Spec, Crossed Genres, Steampunk Tales, Faerie Magazine, and in a number of anthologies. Her work often incorporates Victorian aesthetics with magic and science fiction, treading between genres whenever possible. Her first novel, Pilgrim of the Sky, debuted in 2011.
She has since published a music fiction novel (ROCK REVIVAL), a trilogy of novellas set in early 20th century high society with monster heroines (THESE MARVELOUS BEASTS), and her Arthurian retelling QUEEN OF NONE will be re-released by Solaris Books in May of 2024, along with its two sequels, QUEEN OF FURY and QUEEN OF MERCY.
Solaris Nova is also publishing her queer Regency romantasy trilogy, Love in Netherford, starting with NETHERFORD HALL in '24 and THE VISCOUNT ST. ALBANS and THE GAME OF HEARTS in '25.
Natania holds a BA in English/Writing from Loyola University Maryland and an MA in English with a concentration in medieval literature from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In her spare time she cooks, bakes, drinks wine, crochets, plays guitar and ukulele, and enjoys nature. She lives in North Carolina with her family.
She has since published a music fiction novel (ROCK REVIVAL), a trilogy of novellas set in early 20th century high society with monster heroines (THESE MARVELOUS BEASTS), and her Arthurian retelling QUEEN OF NONE will be re-released by Solaris Books in May of 2024, along with its two sequels, QUEEN OF FURY and QUEEN OF MERCY.
Solaris Nova is also publishing her queer Regency romantasy trilogy, Love in Netherford, starting with NETHERFORD HALL in '24 and THE VISCOUNT ST. ALBANS and THE GAME OF HEARTS in '25.
Natania holds a BA in English/Writing from Loyola University Maryland and an MA in English with a concentration in medieval literature from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In her spare time she cooks, bakes, drinks wine, crochets, plays guitar and ukulele, and enjoys nature. She lives in North Carolina with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
July 12, 2024
Witches, vampires, and other magical beings converge on Netherford for this layered romp set in the regency period. The set up of the story is interesting and kept me reading for the first half. Poppy, the free-spirited daughter of an impoverished gentry family, is a compelling main character. As the story opens, she learns that the owners of nearby Netherford Hall are going to take up residence there. She liked to spend her free time wandering around the old home (though we don't see this on page) and she realizes she can no longer take refuge there.
Edith is the head of the coven/family that owns Netherford Hall. After almost every member of her family died in a fire at the family's London residence, she arrives at Netherford with her uncle and nephew. Edith wasn't a talented witch and didn't expect to move into a leadership role in the coven for many decades, so she is trying to find her way without much guidance or training. Distant relatives arrive from America claiming to be the rightful owners of Netherford and Edith must defend her position.
Another plot line has Poppy working at Edith's lady's maid and an attraction that was already building grows stronger. Their scenes together are wonderful and sweet. I wanted more!
So much happens in this book that it's hard to summarize it. Perhaps it was too ambitious to include all of the different storylines in this first book? Focusing on Poppy and Edith's relationship and perhaps the magical aspect of Netherford Hall might have then set up the story of Poppy's "illness" and the American relatives for a second book. This would also push the introduction of the vampires to a second or third book. Their presence was a little confusing in this story.
I really enjoyed the set up, the setting, and overall premise of this story. Poppy and Edith were delightful, but I wish their relationship had more time to grow and we has more sweet moments between them.
Edith is the head of the coven/family that owns Netherford Hall. After almost every member of her family died in a fire at the family's London residence, she arrives at Netherford with her uncle and nephew. Edith wasn't a talented witch and didn't expect to move into a leadership role in the coven for many decades, so she is trying to find her way without much guidance or training. Distant relatives arrive from America claiming to be the rightful owners of Netherford and Edith must defend her position.
Another plot line has Poppy working at Edith's lady's maid and an attraction that was already building grows stronger. Their scenes together are wonderful and sweet. I wanted more!
So much happens in this book that it's hard to summarize it. Perhaps it was too ambitious to include all of the different storylines in this first book? Focusing on Poppy and Edith's relationship and perhaps the magical aspect of Netherford Hall might have then set up the story of Poppy's "illness" and the American relatives for a second book. This would also push the introduction of the vampires to a second or third book. Their presence was a little confusing in this story.
I really enjoyed the set up, the setting, and overall premise of this story. Poppy and Edith were delightful, but I wish their relationship had more time to grow and we has more sweet moments between them.
August 20, 2024
Thank you to Rebellion / Solaris Nova and NetGalley for the ARC copy
This one was a little too slow moving for me, maybe a little boring even. However, I do see lots of people enjoying the pacing, ambiance and themes, so I would still recommend it to people who normally enjoy cozy historical fantasies.
This book would most definitely benefit from having better chapter divisions. A 40 page chapter that focuses on one character, then a different one, then goes back to the previous and takes place during three different events is too much. It made the reading experience feel tired and confusing, since there were no stops to signal where we were about to follow someone else.
The cozy fantasy vibes, the usually accepted and even expected queerness, and the alternate historical time period with paranormal creatures being mentioned regularly create a very nice atmosphere and leave an open door for multiple companion installments.
This one was a little too slow moving for me, maybe a little boring even. However, I do see lots of people enjoying the pacing, ambiance and themes, so I would still recommend it to people who normally enjoy cozy historical fantasies.
This book would most definitely benefit from having better chapter divisions. A 40 page chapter that focuses on one character, then a different one, then goes back to the previous and takes place during three different events is too much. It made the reading experience feel tired and confusing, since there were no stops to signal where we were about to follow someone else.
The cozy fantasy vibes, the usually accepted and even expected queerness, and the alternate historical time period with paranormal creatures being mentioned regularly create a very nice atmosphere and leave an open door for multiple companion installments.
July 9, 2024
First of all, thank you NetGalley, Rebellion and Natania Barron for gifting me an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
As a hardcore lover of Pride and Prejudice (both book and the 2005 film) I didn't know I needed this book until I actually started reading it.
Characters were fresh and the plot felt fresh, even if people still have to remember this is a queer retelling of Pride and Prejudice. The pen of Barron was very much appreciated to me, especially her details in the characters wardrobe, that was simply phenomenal.
The problems I found while reading the book is that the plot line at times is not linear, and that most of the chapters where excessively long (as in 45 minute long on kindle), the last thing that was a bit confusing was the unsigned change of Povs through the whole book. At that point it would have maybe been better start a new chapter every change of POV to facilitate the reading experience, that for me because of that was unfortunately a bit of a hindering thing.
But still, Netherford Hall is for all those that didn't want to leave Mr and Mrs Darcy after their happily ever-after, but add it a bit of magic and secrets, and make it between a common girl (not so common after all) and a cold gentlewitch.
As a hardcore lover of Pride and Prejudice (both book and the 2005 film) I didn't know I needed this book until I actually started reading it.
Characters were fresh and the plot felt fresh, even if people still have to remember this is a queer retelling of Pride and Prejudice. The pen of Barron was very much appreciated to me, especially her details in the characters wardrobe, that was simply phenomenal.
The problems I found while reading the book is that the plot line at times is not linear, and that most of the chapters where excessively long (as in 45 minute long on kindle), the last thing that was a bit confusing was the unsigned change of Povs through the whole book. At that point it would have maybe been better start a new chapter every change of POV to facilitate the reading experience, that for me because of that was unfortunately a bit of a hindering thing.
But still, Netherford Hall is for all those that didn't want to leave Mr and Mrs Darcy after their happily ever-after, but add it a bit of magic and secrets, and make it between a common girl (not so common after all) and a cold gentlewitch.
September 4, 2024
This was pitched to me as "Jane Austen, with queer witches." And yes, that's exactly what it is. It has the Austen-esque mannerisms and attention to sartorial detail that I expected from Natania Barron based on her social media presence. It also has a ton of heart, sacrifice, gentle humor, and pointed truths about found family and the challenges that come from trying to find yourself when you don't feel as though you quite fit. The characterizations are playful without being overly broad. Barron has built an inclusive Regency society where queerness and non-whiteness is just How Things Work Because Of Course It Does. And that is always, always welcome. What a warm hug of a book.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
July 22, 2024
This is a beautiful, engaging and fresh fantasy romance that delivers what I was searching for in Bridgerton and more. I absolutely adored Netherford Hall as it serves up a delicious pairing of regency-era romance and fantasy world-building filled with witches, magic and vampires.
This interpretation of Pride and Prejudice is extremely well done. Barron has taken just enough inspiration from the source material to make Netherford Hall reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice but adds her own special twist to it, making it feel fresh and as a unique story in its own right. I appreciated the exploration here of themes also found in Pride and Prejudice, such as marriage, reputation, misjudgements and the dichotomy between the town and country. That said, readers can definitely enjoy this book without having read (or watched) Pride and Prejudice which speaks to how strongly it stands as its own story.
The writing itself is wonderful - the prose is beautifully written, especially the descriptions of clothing (there is a skilled modiste in this story and the garments described are divine!). The characters are distinct and convincing. The chapters occasionally switch between different perspectives, and there is always a clear change in style to reflect the personality and quirks of each character which made this a joy to read. The chapters are on the longer side as with many fantasy books - I see that it might not be everyone's preference but do not let this intimidate you. The chapters were very immersive and engaging. Although the prose is written in an 'old English' style, this book was quite easy to read.
As a whole, I found myself thoroughly entertained throughout this story. This is the perfect book to pick up if you are looking for a cosy fantasy read with a romance plotline, and also if you are looking for a regency queer love story.
The dedication reads "for every queer heart who wished for their Darcy." If you resonate with or are intrigued by that, I am sure you will enjoy this read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Solaris Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This interpretation of Pride and Prejudice is extremely well done. Barron has taken just enough inspiration from the source material to make Netherford Hall reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice but adds her own special twist to it, making it feel fresh and as a unique story in its own right. I appreciated the exploration here of themes also found in Pride and Prejudice, such as marriage, reputation, misjudgements and the dichotomy between the town and country. That said, readers can definitely enjoy this book without having read (or watched) Pride and Prejudice which speaks to how strongly it stands as its own story.
The writing itself is wonderful - the prose is beautifully written, especially the descriptions of clothing (there is a skilled modiste in this story and the garments described are divine!). The characters are distinct and convincing. The chapters occasionally switch between different perspectives, and there is always a clear change in style to reflect the personality and quirks of each character which made this a joy to read. The chapters are on the longer side as with many fantasy books - I see that it might not be everyone's preference but do not let this intimidate you. The chapters were very immersive and engaging. Although the prose is written in an 'old English' style, this book was quite easy to read.
As a whole, I found myself thoroughly entertained throughout this story. This is the perfect book to pick up if you are looking for a cosy fantasy read with a romance plotline, and also if you are looking for a regency queer love story.
The dedication reads "for every queer heart who wished for their Darcy." If you resonate with or are intrigued by that, I am sure you will enjoy this read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Solaris Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2024
Netherford Hall was not what I expected but had a lot of promise. I like witchy books so was inclined to like the general gist of the story but there are definite areas for improvement to make the second book more successful.
There were a lot of promising ideas, details, and plot points but there was just too much packed into one relatively short book. I think there were too many characters and back stories thrown at the reader which resulted in a lot of telling instead of showing. The side plots were not unwelcome but added to the general chaos trying to follow the plot. Additionally, the POV changing multiple times within each chapter made the story feel choppy with abrupt transitions. The characters were suddenly crying, weeping, and sobbing for little reason and the romance developments were equally unexpected and startling. I was often confused and I'm not sure I really understand the ending.
I think branding this story (especially on the cover itself) as a Pride and Prejudice and Witches might do this book a disservice. It's certainly apparent who the Elizabeth, Jane, and Darcy equivalents are in Netherford Hall, but the dynamics and motivations are not analogous. Readers looking for a P&P story might be disappointed which seems unnecessary when there is definitely a different audience for this book. I would call this a Regency historical fantasy with better comparisons to Olivia Atwater's Half A Soul series or Howl's Moving Castle.
Now that I know the lay of the land, I would be interested in the subsequent books and would hope the sequel won't have to work so hard to explain the setting and context.
Thank you Solaris Books for the arc!
There were a lot of promising ideas, details, and plot points but there was just too much packed into one relatively short book. I think there were too many characters and back stories thrown at the reader which resulted in a lot of telling instead of showing. The side plots were not unwelcome but added to the general chaos trying to follow the plot. Additionally, the POV changing multiple times within each chapter made the story feel choppy with abrupt transitions. The characters were suddenly crying, weeping, and sobbing for little reason and the romance developments were equally unexpected and startling. I was often confused and I'm not sure I really understand the ending.
I think branding this story (especially on the cover itself) as a Pride and Prejudice and Witches might do this book a disservice. It's certainly apparent who the Elizabeth, Jane, and Darcy equivalents are in Netherford Hall, but the dynamics and motivations are not analogous. Readers looking for a P&P story might be disappointed which seems unnecessary when there is definitely a different audience for this book. I would call this a Regency historical fantasy with better comparisons to Olivia Atwater's Half A Soul series or Howl's Moving Castle.
Now that I know the lay of the land, I would be interested in the subsequent books and would hope the sequel won't have to work so hard to explain the setting and context.
Thank you Solaris Books for the arc!
July 7, 2024
4.5⭐️ Have you ever read or watched pride and prejudice and thought to yourself this would be so much better if it was set in a fantasy world with witches, vampire and fae? If you have then you will love this book!! Yes this book gives off major pride and prejudice vibes but it’s definitely its own story. Netherford Hall is a story about finding your way when you don’t know where you fit, and features diverse characters, a sapphic romance, and found family. I absolutely adored this book and the reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is because the POV would change in the middle of a chapter (which is a pet peeve of mine) and also the chapters were kinda long. But I highly recommend Netherford Hall to anyone who loves pride and prejudice or just loves queer fantasy books. 😊🥰
Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read a ARC copy of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read a ARC copy of this book.
September 21, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This is very much a gentle, cosy historical fantasy and I love the vibes. Regency era is always something I love to read about, and when you add in witches and vampires it's even better! I definitely preferred the first half of the book to the second - the pacing was a bit all over the place, and I found the second half to be quite boring. It's also much more inspired by Pride and Prejudice than it is a retelling of it, so it was not quite what I was expecting. This was fun to start, and I liked the characters, but I'm not sure I care enough to continue with the series.
This is very much a gentle, cosy historical fantasy and I love the vibes. Regency era is always something I love to read about, and when you add in witches and vampires it's even better! I definitely preferred the first half of the book to the second - the pacing was a bit all over the place, and I found the second half to be quite boring. It's also much more inspired by Pride and Prejudice than it is a retelling of it, so it was not quite what I was expecting. This was fun to start, and I liked the characters, but I'm not sure I care enough to continue with the series.
August 17, 2024
4/5 Stars
This as an amazing read! Netherfield Hall is now definitely one of my favourite Jane Austen retellings. It was unique and imaginative, while still including some familiar features that made Pride and Prejudice a classic. As soon as I heard this was a queer Pride and Prejudice retelling with witches I knew I was sold. This completely lived up to my expectations and I’m fully expecting it to become a fave for queer fans this August.
This as an amazing read! Netherfield Hall is now definitely one of my favourite Jane Austen retellings. It was unique and imaginative, while still including some familiar features that made Pride and Prejudice a classic. As soon as I heard this was a queer Pride and Prejudice retelling with witches I knew I was sold. This completely lived up to my expectations and I’m fully expecting it to become a fave for queer fans this August.
August 4, 2024
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧thank you netgalley and rebellion for this arc!
2.5⭐️
i wanted SO badly to be able to ride for this book. i wanted to love this. i really did. it had so much potential!!! pride and prejudice, sapphic romance, witches and vampires! but unfortunately i was left disappointed. I DO STILL THINK ITS WORTH READING IF ANY OF THOSE THINGS SOUND APPEALING. i just personally was not a huge fan.
i was most excited for the romance between poppy and edith but the chemistry was just not there. there wasn’t much banter, the yearning felt forced and they honestly didn’t talk to each other that much.
when the romance wasn’t hitting, i was hoping the plot would make up for it… well. unfortunately the climax felt like the author just wrote down an outline of what she wanted to happen and then decided to leave it there. it felt so procedural and out of place compared to the rest of the book.
i feel like if you really love historical romance and you also love fantasy and want to read something queer, you would probably still have fun with this. but it just wasn’t as good as i was hoping :(
2.5⭐️
i wanted SO badly to be able to ride for this book. i wanted to love this. i really did. it had so much potential!!! pride and prejudice, sapphic romance, witches and vampires! but unfortunately i was left disappointed. I DO STILL THINK ITS WORTH READING IF ANY OF THOSE THINGS SOUND APPEALING. i just personally was not a huge fan.
i was most excited for the romance between poppy and edith but the chemistry was just not there. there wasn’t much banter, the yearning felt forced and they honestly didn’t talk to each other that much.
when the romance wasn’t hitting, i was hoping the plot would make up for it… well. unfortunately the climax felt like the author just wrote down an outline of what she wanted to happen and then decided to leave it there. it felt so procedural and out of place compared to the rest of the book.
i feel like if you really love historical romance and you also love fantasy and want to read something queer, you would probably still have fun with this. but it just wasn’t as good as i was hoping :(
August 8, 2024
4.5 rounded up.
I became a fan of Natania Barron’s from her Thread Talks on Twitter, so I of course got super excited when I saw this available on NetGalley! Welcome to a delightfully delicious witchy regency adventure with a big helping of romance!
Basically, Edith is a gentlewitch who moves into Netherford Hall and needs to navigate both life there and her own struggle with her magic. She meets Poppy, daughter of the nearby family, quickly insulting her at a society function (we can see where this is going).
Natania is an incredible author. This book is well designed and put together with vivid description such as the idea of “baked bread” to describe a setting as warm and comfortable. She is not too heavy handed on the world building, giving you just enough at a time so you are able to orient yourself in the story while there is still the impression that there is a lot left to learn. As expected from following Thread Talks, Natania puts a lot of work into describing apparel and making the clothing matter.
I loved the nods to the different versions of pride and prejudice, such as the muddy hem of Poppy’s dress and the line about how someone was bewitched “body and soul.” However, I don’t know if I would quite call it “pride and prejudice and witches” as advertised, but I still think it is an attractive and entertaining regency story. This book comes out next week (!) and something that I definitely think you all should add to your TBR.
I became a fan of Natania Barron’s from her Thread Talks on Twitter, so I of course got super excited when I saw this available on NetGalley! Welcome to a delightfully delicious witchy regency adventure with a big helping of romance!
Basically, Edith is a gentlewitch who moves into Netherford Hall and needs to navigate both life there and her own struggle with her magic. She meets Poppy, daughter of the nearby family, quickly insulting her at a society function (we can see where this is going).
Natania is an incredible author. This book is well designed and put together with vivid description such as the idea of “baked bread” to describe a setting as warm and comfortable. She is not too heavy handed on the world building, giving you just enough at a time so you are able to orient yourself in the story while there is still the impression that there is a lot left to learn. As expected from following Thread Talks, Natania puts a lot of work into describing apparel and making the clothing matter.
I loved the nods to the different versions of pride and prejudice, such as the muddy hem of Poppy’s dress and the line about how someone was bewitched “body and soul.” However, I don’t know if I would quite call it “pride and prejudice and witches” as advertised, but I still think it is an attractive and entertaining regency story. This book comes out next week (!) and something that I definitely think you all should add to your TBR.
September 21, 2024
Thank you to Solaris Books and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC!
Netherford Hall is a fantasy book about witches with a queer romance and a regency backdrop. If that sounds intriguing to you, you should definitely check this one out.
I actually quite enjoyed the story of Netherford Hall but unfortunately, got hung up on the choice to market this as a Pride and Prejudice retelling. Not only does that a disservice to the original - because if it is a retelling, it's a poor one - but also a disservice to Netherford Hall! It is a good story on its own so I really don't understand the need to plaster the name of another book onto the cover of this one.
If you really do want to compare it to other books, I saw a reviewer naming Howl's Moving Castle which I find much more fitting. There are also some Twilight vibes tbh :p
The romance between the two main characters was mostly just sexual attraction and it was a subplot to the main story. There's some chemistry but it's not love from my pov. At least not by the end of the book. I didn't mind that too much though because I was interested in the main story.
The side characters are a fun bunch but none of them were super interesting to me but I would not be uninterested in reading more about the Byrnes or the Hodes. I know the second book is about Viola but as someone who's not a romance reader, the last thing I will put myself through is a straight romance 💀
Overall, good story, unfortunate marketing.
Netherford Hall is a fantasy book about witches with a queer romance and a regency backdrop. If that sounds intriguing to you, you should definitely check this one out.
I actually quite enjoyed the story of Netherford Hall but unfortunately, got hung up on the choice to market this as a Pride and Prejudice retelling. Not only does that a disservice to the original - because if it is a retelling, it's a poor one - but also a disservice to Netherford Hall! It is a good story on its own so I really don't understand the need to plaster the name of another book onto the cover of this one.
If you really do want to compare it to other books, I saw a reviewer naming Howl's Moving Castle which I find much more fitting. There are also some Twilight vibes tbh :p
The romance between the two main characters was mostly just sexual attraction and it was a subplot to the main story. There's some chemistry but it's not love from my pov. At least not by the end of the book. I didn't mind that too much though because I was interested in the main story.
The side characters are a fun bunch but none of them were super interesting to me but I would not be uninterested in reading more about the Byrnes or the Hodes. I know the second book is about Viola but as someone who's not a romance reader, the last thing I will put myself through is a straight romance 💀
Overall, good story, unfortunate marketing.
January 11, 2025
If you love pride and prejudice, and you love a bit of fantasy, and you love a bit of queerness, then this story is a must-read. The setting is exactly that perfect pride and prejudice era that honestly i long for. The same goes for the characters, but with the added aspect, which i wish was real life, is their inclusivity. In this book, no one looks up at queer people, which was on purpose, to show us what the world could be like. This is how it should be. The characters also come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, which is lovely for a change. It might not be historically accurate, but i blame the history for that, not this story.
I digress.
This story is so lovely, yes its pride and prejudice inspired, and you can see that, but the author made it so much her own story, and let me tell you, it's lovely. It has the perfect mix of cutesy romance and thrilling fantasy. I cannot wait to see what will happen to the other characters in the upcoming books!
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
I digress.
This story is so lovely, yes its pride and prejudice inspired, and you can see that, but the author made it so much her own story, and let me tell you, it's lovely. It has the perfect mix of cutesy romance and thrilling fantasy. I cannot wait to see what will happen to the other characters in the upcoming books!
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
July 10, 2024
2.65 ⭐️
Es una buena idea, pero el desarrollo quedó a deber.
¿Saben esa sensación cuándo compran un libro, lo leen, no entienden que está pasado y nada tiene sentido, pero siguen leyendo creyendo que en algún momento habrán explicaciones y al final se dan cuenta que es el 3er libro de una saga? Pues así me sentí todo el libro.
Además de lo anterior también hay muchos temas y son tantos que al final ninguno se trata al 100%.
Honestamente dudo leer el siguiente libro.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Es una buena idea, pero el desarrollo quedó a deber.
¿Saben esa sensación cuándo compran un libro, lo leen, no entienden que está pasado y nada tiene sentido, pero siguen leyendo creyendo que en algún momento habrán explicaciones y al final se dan cuenta que es el 3er libro de una saga? Pues así me sentí todo el libro.
Además de lo anterior también hay muchos temas y son tantos que al final ninguno se trata al 100%.
Honestamente dudo leer el siguiente libro.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 15, 2024
Stars and the speckled firmament! I've just finished reading Netherford Hall by Natania Barron and am besotted by the characters, story, and writing style. Thank you to Natania and Solaris Nova for the ARC so that I could experience this beautiful story and encourage others to do the same.
Described as Pride & Prejudice & Witches, Netherford Hall follows Gentlewitch Edith Rookwood, who was recently displaced due to a terrible fire that claimed the lives of all but two of her family members. As they move to Netherford Hall in Kent to rebuild, she meets one of her tenants, the headstrong and curious Poppy Brightwell. Through property disputes, love potion poisoning, unexplained house repairs, and pervasive nightmares, the magic of Netherford Hall wants to be discovered - even if it may ruin the lives of everyone in Nethorford.
From beginning to end, I was absolutely enchanted with this novel. As someone who doesn't often read Regency-era stories, I was both excited and apprehensive to give this book a try - but sapphic Regency paranormal fantasy? I think anyone whose interest is piqued will have a great time. The story's pacing is fantastic, and the creativity is out of this world. Barron is a talented author.
There's a lot of lore here, so if that's not your cup of tea, then it might be more difficult to pick up. That being said, I loved learning about this world (and was thrilled to see that it appears to be the first in a series!). The characters were all dynamic and complex, and the point of view shifted to so many characters but never in a way that felt confusing.
Thank you again so much Natania and Solaris Nova! I'll be patiently waiting for the next installment. :)
Described as Pride & Prejudice & Witches, Netherford Hall follows Gentlewitch Edith Rookwood, who was recently displaced due to a terrible fire that claimed the lives of all but two of her family members. As they move to Netherford Hall in Kent to rebuild, she meets one of her tenants, the headstrong and curious Poppy Brightwell. Through property disputes, love potion poisoning, unexplained house repairs, and pervasive nightmares, the magic of Netherford Hall wants to be discovered - even if it may ruin the lives of everyone in Nethorford.
From beginning to end, I was absolutely enchanted with this novel. As someone who doesn't often read Regency-era stories, I was both excited and apprehensive to give this book a try - but sapphic Regency paranormal fantasy? I think anyone whose interest is piqued will have a great time. The story's pacing is fantastic, and the creativity is out of this world. Barron is a talented author.
There's a lot of lore here, so if that's not your cup of tea, then it might be more difficult to pick up. That being said, I loved learning about this world (and was thrilled to see that it appears to be the first in a series!). The characters were all dynamic and complex, and the point of view shifted to so many characters but never in a way that felt confusing.
Thank you again so much Natania and Solaris Nova! I'll be patiently waiting for the next installment. :)
July 14, 2024
First of all thank you to NetGalley, Rebellion and Natania Barron for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to love this one more than I did. I love Pride and Prejudice and I love how Natania draws on that story and enhances the world with witches and vampires. It's very creative and a good way to introduce more people to the Jane Austen fan club.
However, I just was not gripped by this novel. I didn't feel compelled to keep reading and I wasn't really thinking about it throughout the day.
Furthermore, the pacing is a little bit slow for my liking. I understand there's a lot of world building and contextualizing to do so I do say I would still recommend this book.
However, be aware that most of the action happens in the last 30% of the book.
I do still recommend. It's a good 3 star read for me.
I wanted to love this one more than I did. I love Pride and Prejudice and I love how Natania draws on that story and enhances the world with witches and vampires. It's very creative and a good way to introduce more people to the Jane Austen fan club.
However, I just was not gripped by this novel. I didn't feel compelled to keep reading and I wasn't really thinking about it throughout the day.
Furthermore, the pacing is a little bit slow for my liking. I understand there's a lot of world building and contextualizing to do so I do say I would still recommend this book.
However, be aware that most of the action happens in the last 30% of the book.
I do still recommend. It's a good 3 star read for me.
August 15, 2024
We begin Netherford Hall with what feels like a leisurely walk through the countryside as Natania Barron immediately immerses us in Netherford with strategic pacing and worldbuilding that make me feel like I had gently melded into the environment. It has all the makings of a cozy supernatural mystery. Beautifully descriptive prose paints lovely imagery of the town, homes, and clothing from a bygone Regency era. The character interactions are intentional and revealing. The main characters and supporting actors are all fascinating and important. I enjoyed the magic system blended with government in this diverse queernormative world where humans coexist with a number of preternatural beings. The history and lore are so well thought out and presented in a way that the complex concepts are easily grasped. Netherford Hall is its own character. It is the living, breathing, heartbeat that flows throughout the story linking everything. I really liked the Brightwell siblings. It was lovely to see how they cared and supported one another. I also enjoyed the secondary relationships that were building on the sidelines. I believe they will be explored in future novels.
As much as I loved the interactions between Edith and Poppy, and I understand their connection was intertwined with something deeper, I would have liked to see them spend a bit more time just getting to know one another. Overall, it works, and novel length may have been a consideration, as there is already so much going on.
The climax was satisfying, and the ending wrapped up nicely. I cannot say enough about how much I loved the pacing. It was perfect and I was engaged throughout. It was a quick, entertaining read.
I didn't love the author's choice for Viola.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to the follow-ups. I am giving it 4.5 stars, rounded up.
#regency #fantasy #witches #vampires #queernormative #smalltown #Kent #England #butch/femme #magic #oppositesattract #HEA #cozy
I received this free ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
As much as I loved the interactions between Edith and Poppy, and I understand their connection was intertwined with something deeper, I would have liked to see them spend a bit more time just getting to know one another. Overall, it works, and novel length may have been a consideration, as there is already so much going on.
The climax was satisfying, and the ending wrapped up nicely. I cannot say enough about how much I loved the pacing. It was perfect and I was engaged throughout. It was a quick, entertaining read.
I didn't love the author's choice for Viola.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to the follow-ups. I am giving it 4.5 stars, rounded up.
#regency #fantasy #witches #vampires #queernormative #smalltown #Kent #England #butch/femme #magic #oppositesattract #HEA #cozy
I received this free ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
May 6, 2025
I am admittedly terrible at writing reviews, but I really wanted to write a review for this book, so here I go.
I adored it. I am a sucker for the regency era and this fantasy version of it is wonderful, it wasn't made too complicated, you don't get information thrown at you at a rapid speed, you find yourself gently submerged into the world and how everything came to be.
There's not a single character that feels out of place or unnecessary, they all add something to the story in big or small ways and you truly find yourself wanting to know more about them. You can't help but fall in love with them. I especially adored Poppy, with her whimsical and defiant mind, the way she wants to discover herself and how some of her thoughts and feelings occasionally hit a little too close home.
Clues to 'solve' the story are spread throughout the book, allowing you to patch it all together before the final big reveal, leaving you with a need to read more, because you want to know the answers to all the questions posed before you, and whether you were correct with your own predictions.
I got both the first and second book for my birthday, so I am ready and eager to start reading the next one and get to know more about the wonderful world of Netherford.
I adored it. I am a sucker for the regency era and this fantasy version of it is wonderful, it wasn't made too complicated, you don't get information thrown at you at a rapid speed, you find yourself gently submerged into the world and how everything came to be.
There's not a single character that feels out of place or unnecessary, they all add something to the story in big or small ways and you truly find yourself wanting to know more about them. You can't help but fall in love with them. I especially adored Poppy, with her whimsical and defiant mind, the way she wants to discover herself and how some of her thoughts and feelings occasionally hit a little too close home.
Clues to 'solve' the story are spread throughout the book, allowing you to patch it all together before the final big reveal, leaving you with a need to read more, because you want to know the answers to all the questions posed before you, and whether you were correct with your own predictions.
I got both the first and second book for my birthday, so I am ready and eager to start reading the next one and get to know more about the wonderful world of Netherford.
July 25, 2024
Thank you, Netgalley, for this ARC.
This was an interesting ride. I went in expecting a Pride & Prejudice (loose) retelling but what I actually got was a book about witches and humans coexisting in an ecosystem similar to the great estates of old with entire villages attached to estates and dependent on them for a livelihood.
Edith Rookwood is at her dilapidated ancestral seat at Netherford Hall after a tragic fire killed most of her family except her uncle and very young nephew, Henry. Neither adult was meant to be taking up ancestral responsibilities because more talented or magically potent members of their family were taking up the mantle but now they must muddle through despite their grief and trauma.
Poppy Brightwell is one of the tenants at Harrow House who feels a strange attachment to Netherford Hall, despite its run-down state, and can't quite explain it. Her family is deeply averse to witches in all forms so a Gentlewitch moving into Netherford Hall is not welcome news but somehow the two are attracted to each other despite their disparate social standings and magical use.
I particularly enjoyed how diverse the world is. We have people from all ethnic backgrounds, along with queer unions being commonplace, even amongst the gentry. We also have the fae, witches who the government sanctions, as well as vampires and werewolves (only mentioned), added to make this an incredibly diverse and interesting world.
The only thing I didn't quite like about this book is that it sometimes feels like too many subplots are crammed in this first book rather than extended out to future books. I prefer the first book in a fantasy series to set up the players and factions and relationships and then dive into more complexities in subsequent books. For example, the vampires felt extraneous for the most part and we don't get enough information about them to understand their allegiances and powers. Perhaps this will be fleshed out in a sequel but having them in this book feels a bit puzzling to me.
While the plot and characters are interesting and engaging, I think the real standout in this book is the lovingly described clothing and accessories. We have a primary side character who is a modiste and one of the main characters takes great care with her appearance and dress and it shows in the appreciation of how everyone looks and the descriptions of their formalwear.
Overall, an engaging and interesting fantasy world crossed with regency romance.
This was an interesting ride. I went in expecting a Pride & Prejudice (loose) retelling but what I actually got was a book about witches and humans coexisting in an ecosystem similar to the great estates of old with entire villages attached to estates and dependent on them for a livelihood.
Edith Rookwood is at her dilapidated ancestral seat at Netherford Hall after a tragic fire killed most of her family except her uncle and very young nephew, Henry. Neither adult was meant to be taking up ancestral responsibilities because more talented or magically potent members of their family were taking up the mantle but now they must muddle through despite their grief and trauma.
Poppy Brightwell is one of the tenants at Harrow House who feels a strange attachment to Netherford Hall, despite its run-down state, and can't quite explain it. Her family is deeply averse to witches in all forms so a Gentlewitch moving into Netherford Hall is not welcome news but somehow the two are attracted to each other despite their disparate social standings and magical use.
I particularly enjoyed how diverse the world is. We have people from all ethnic backgrounds, along with queer unions being commonplace, even amongst the gentry. We also have the fae, witches who the government sanctions, as well as vampires and werewolves (only mentioned), added to make this an incredibly diverse and interesting world.
The only thing I didn't quite like about this book is that it sometimes feels like too many subplots are crammed in this first book rather than extended out to future books. I prefer the first book in a fantasy series to set up the players and factions and relationships and then dive into more complexities in subsequent books. For example, the vampires felt extraneous for the most part and we don't get enough information about them to understand their allegiances and powers. Perhaps this will be fleshed out in a sequel but having them in this book feels a bit puzzling to me.
While the plot and characters are interesting and engaging, I think the real standout in this book is the lovingly described clothing and accessories. We have a primary side character who is a modiste and one of the main characters takes great care with her appearance and dress and it shows in the appreciation of how everyone looks and the descriptions of their formalwear.
Overall, an engaging and interesting fantasy world crossed with regency romance.
September 11, 2024
3.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and the Editor. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
As it is said in the synopsis and on the cover, this is Pride and Prejudice and Witches. It is exactly that, and it is delightful.
Usually, sisters in books are one of my pet peeves, so let me start with this: here it wasn’t! And I am so happy to say it! Viola and Poppy are amazing together! Their relationship was great, and I want more of this kind of sisterhood around! It was one of my favorite things in the whole book!
Mind me, the book is centered around Poppy and Edith, that’s true, but around the main lead, we get to know so many secondary characters, and I really loved that not only they are portrayed in some satisfying ways, meaning they are not bidimensional or plain, but we get to see the relationships between them grow and evolve. And I appreciated that we also have a real second lead! It is a thing I love and it is pretty usual in Korean dramas, for example, (but, usually, in dramas has the function of comic relief) but I don’t often see in books (it may also be that I am reading the wrong books, I am not discounting the possibility!). And I am not talking about the couple that would probably be the main lead in the next book, I am talking about a new love developing between two secondary characters. It is so refreshing! And it was soooo cute!
But there is more to love in there. I loved the relationship between Poppy and Netherford Hall, and I loved the explanation the author gave for it. I loved the vibes and the atmosphere of the book. I loved the idea of the gentlewitch and I loved that we see Edith growing into her role (and not only her, but Auden too, he is such a good character, too!).
This book is compelling and delightful, and I think it is the perfect book to cozy up with and spend an amazing afternoon!
Thanks to NetGalley and the Editor. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
As it is said in the synopsis and on the cover, this is Pride and Prejudice and Witches. It is exactly that, and it is delightful.
Usually, sisters in books are one of my pet peeves, so let me start with this: here it wasn’t! And I am so happy to say it! Viola and Poppy are amazing together! Their relationship was great, and I want more of this kind of sisterhood around! It was one of my favorite things in the whole book!
Mind me, the book is centered around Poppy and Edith, that’s true, but around the main lead, we get to know so many secondary characters, and I really loved that not only they are portrayed in some satisfying ways, meaning they are not bidimensional or plain, but we get to see the relationships between them grow and evolve. And I appreciated that we also have a real second lead! It is a thing I love and it is pretty usual in Korean dramas, for example, (but, usually, in dramas has the function of comic relief) but I don’t often see in books (it may also be that I am reading the wrong books, I am not discounting the possibility!). And I am not talking about the couple that would probably be the main lead in the next book, I am talking about a new love developing between two secondary characters. It is so refreshing! And it was soooo cute!
But there is more to love in there. I loved the relationship between Poppy and Netherford Hall, and I loved the explanation the author gave for it. I loved the vibes and the atmosphere of the book. I loved the idea of the gentlewitch and I loved that we see Edith growing into her role (and not only her, but Auden too, he is such a good character, too!).
This book is compelling and delightful, and I think it is the perfect book to cozy up with and spend an amazing afternoon!
August 5, 2024
I'm absolutely bewitched by Netherford Hall. This book is being described as Pride and Prejudice and Witches, but I think that calling it a Pride and Prejudice retelling does it a disservice.
There's so much more to this story, so I don't want to focus on comparing it to the classic.
Netherford Hall is the story of Edith and Poppy; Edith is the new gentlewitch of Netherford which means she is also the owner of the house Poppy's family lives in. The gentlewitch should be powerful and provide safety and prosperity to her town, but Edith only came to claim her house after most of her family died in a fire that destroyed their London house. That and the fact that she's not really powerful is why she has a hard time understanding and acting on her feelings towards Poppy.
As for Poppy, she's bright and energetic, but also has family troubles. They are higher born but not rich, often depending on help from others. And they have some secrets.
Their first meeting doesn't go too well, but both women feel a connection to each other.
I loved their relationship, and the way it evolved through the book. But I kinda wish they had more scenes together, some of their issues are resolved a little too quickly.
I really enjoyed the world creation, and how the author used adding witches to "our" world to change a few other things, like same-sex marriages. I would love to know more about witches and their world, but I guess we will have to wait for the next part of the series.
The non-romance plot was really well written and thought through. Maybe the ending felt a little too rushed, but I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a
copy of this book.
There's so much more to this story, so I don't want to focus on comparing it to the classic.
Netherford Hall is the story of Edith and Poppy; Edith is the new gentlewitch of Netherford which means she is also the owner of the house Poppy's family lives in. The gentlewitch should be powerful and provide safety and prosperity to her town, but Edith only came to claim her house after most of her family died in a fire that destroyed their London house. That and the fact that she's not really powerful is why she has a hard time understanding and acting on her feelings towards Poppy.
As for Poppy, she's bright and energetic, but also has family troubles. They are higher born but not rich, often depending on help from others. And they have some secrets.
Their first meeting doesn't go too well, but both women feel a connection to each other.
I loved their relationship, and the way it evolved through the book. But I kinda wish they had more scenes together, some of their issues are resolved a little too quickly.
I really enjoyed the world creation, and how the author used adding witches to "our" world to change a few other things, like same-sex marriages. I would love to know more about witches and their world, but I guess we will have to wait for the next part of the series.
The non-romance plot was really well written and thought through. Maybe the ending felt a little too rushed, but I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a
copy of this book.
September 9, 2024
First, thank you NetGalley and Rebellion for the ARC.
As a huge fan of “Pride and Prejudice”, I was very excited to read this book, but sadly, it’s a DNF for me.
I liked the idea behind it—a sapphic retelling of P&P with witches seemed like everything I wanted in a book. Plus, the cover also caught my attention.
Unfortunately, I found “Netherford Hall” a very slow book, almost boring in some parts. Additionally, I didn’t feel any particular connection with the characters.
Also, based on what I read, it didn’t seem like a retelling. Although it's not explicitly labelled as one, I assumed it was since it’s marked as 'Pride and Prejudice and Witches.'
As a huge fan of “Pride and Prejudice”, I was very excited to read this book, but sadly, it’s a DNF for me.
I liked the idea behind it—a sapphic retelling of P&P with witches seemed like everything I wanted in a book. Plus, the cover also caught my attention.
Unfortunately, I found “Netherford Hall” a very slow book, almost boring in some parts. Additionally, I didn’t feel any particular connection with the characters.
Also, based on what I read, it didn’t seem like a retelling. Although it's not explicitly labelled as one, I assumed it was since it’s marked as 'Pride and Prejudice and Witches.'
August 6, 2024
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for gifting me an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a beautiful, funny and clever regency romance with a supernatural twist, set in a non-heteronormative world… so yes, basically everything I look for in a book! It’s billed as “Pride and prejudice and witches” and while I see the parallels to the famous Austen novel, I do not think they’re obvious enough to compare, and this novel is sufficiently strong to stand on its own. I had no problem with the insta-love aspect, and expect the world building and magic system will be further developed as the series goes on. I found it incredible entertaining and finished it in just under two days. I would highly recommend it and look forward to the sequel!
This was a beautiful, funny and clever regency romance with a supernatural twist, set in a non-heteronormative world… so yes, basically everything I look for in a book! It’s billed as “Pride and prejudice and witches” and while I see the parallels to the famous Austen novel, I do not think they’re obvious enough to compare, and this novel is sufficiently strong to stand on its own. I had no problem with the insta-love aspect, and expect the world building and magic system will be further developed as the series goes on. I found it incredible entertaining and finished it in just under two days. I would highly recommend it and look forward to the sequel!
August 30, 2024
One of my favorite reads all summer. Delightful, cozy, sexy, just creepy enough, with Jane Austen vibes and incredible fashion. Like a slightly darker cousin to The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches.
November 6, 2024
This sapphic, magical Pride and Prejudice retelling stole my heart (and sleep)! I felt like there was enough flexibility for the story to be fresh and queer (!) while still sharing some similarities with the original. I loved how queerness was a part of this world without rampant homophobia or struggle. The voice of the author and the writing style also made this book stronger.
There's an "are they enemies" start to this that rivals Darcy and Elizabeth. Edith and Poppy do quickly sort it out but the tension was fun.
I liked the family member's of both MCs and their love for each other *and* the found family. I was disappointed by the plot line that I consider ableist where a curse involves disability.
There's also an empowering theme of being a little odd, but realizing the power in being different and in finding yourself.
I'm excited for the next in the series!
1.5 out of five 🌶
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC.
CN: familial death, death of a parent, ableism, fire/fire injury, sex, sexual assault,
There's an "are they enemies" start to this that rivals Darcy and Elizabeth. Edith and Poppy do quickly sort it out but the tension was fun.
I liked the family member's of both MCs and their love for each other *and* the found family. I was disappointed by the plot line that I consider ableist where a curse involves disability.
There's also an empowering theme of being a little odd, but realizing the power in being different and in finding yourself.
I'm excited for the next in the series!
1.5 out of five 🌶
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC.
CN: familial death, death of a parent, ableism, fire/fire injury, sex, sexual assault,
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August 7, 2024LGBTQ+ Pride and Prejudice with witches, vampires and other mythical creatures.....this took a big bite out of the historical fantasy genre that was bit too much to swallow.
July 27, 2024
I LOVED this book. Honestly, I don't read much regency/historical fiction but this LGBTQ+ and sapphic romantasy is a supernatural delight. Witches, vampires and a hint of werewolves take the stage but ultimately this is a whimsical yet fast-paced story pulling on themes of loss, transformation, belonging, exploration, nature and discovering your true identity...If that sounds like your cup of tea, expect to also find an enemies to friends to lovers saga and queer neurodivergent main characters, both of whom I adored, but it's Edith who captured my whole heart! If you just binged the new season of Bridgerton this book will surely help fill the void. Fans of Natasha Pulley rejoice because this series is one you will be happy to get your teeth into. Easily five stars from me - when's part 2 again??
Thank you Solaris Nova for providing this ARC for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Solaris Nova for providing this ARC for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 19, 2024
Netherford Hall is everything you could dream of in a magical witchy sapphic Pride and Prejudice retelling. It blew my mind and wrenched my heart!!
I fell in love immediately with Edith and Poppy - as well as Auden and Viola and the supporting characters. Edith is the perfect stoic brewing gentlewitch, and Poppy is amazingly wild, intense, and feisty.
I won’t spoil the plot but it is FASCINATING - I was spellbound the entire time and read it in record speed. The prose is gorgeous, the conversations are incredibly written.
I loved it so so much.
Thank you for this ARC!
I fell in love immediately with Edith and Poppy - as well as Auden and Viola and the supporting characters. Edith is the perfect stoic brewing gentlewitch, and Poppy is amazingly wild, intense, and feisty.
I won’t spoil the plot but it is FASCINATING - I was spellbound the entire time and read it in record speed. The prose is gorgeous, the conversations are incredibly written.
I loved it so so much.
Thank you for this ARC!
July 22, 2024
I think this was meant to be a cozy Pride and Prejudice fantasy novel. Sadly it was very boring.
January 7, 2025
My first audiobook of the year, and it was an enjoyable one! It combines a trio of tastes that I think taste great together: regency romance, fantasy, and F/F.
The cover promises “Pride and Prejudice and Witches,” which I suppose is to some extent true, though I wouldn’t consider it a retelling so much as a book that borrows some premise and character elements from Pride and Prejudice (and, of course, its famous opening line). It takes place in a world that reminded me a bit of the world in Stephanie Burgis’s SnowspelledSnowspelled: an alternate universe in which England’s dealings with fairies have resulted both in magical powers and shifting social hierarchies. In Netherford Hall, the traditional social system of nobility, gentry, etc. has been overlaid with a system of “gentlewitches,” the heads of family-based covens who operate as local lords and, though women, take on more masculine dress and practices, including sitting on a council in Parliament and seeking wives to secure their claims to their estates. Gentlewitches are assisted by majordomos, non-magical male relatives who basically serve as seconds-in-command/housekeepers. They’re also assisted by Warders, who make protective spells; the innkeepers of witch pubs, which contain transportation portals; Pact families, which I think don’t have magic themselves but can be around it without problems and have sworn allegiance to different witch covens; and the ash-touched, who may or may not be part of Pact families and can handle magical objects. There are also hedgewitches, who also have magical powers of a much less respectable kind, as well as creatures like vampires and werewolves.
So that’s the world—where do the Pride and Prejudice elements come in? Well, our “Darcy” is Edith Rookwood, the new gentlewitch of Netherford. She’s one of only three remaining members of her coven: their London house burned down, leaving only Edith, her former party-boy uncle Auden, and her ten-year-old cousin Henry alive. Their family hasn’t been in Netherford in generations, which means the house is in bad shape and they don’t know the area at all, and to make things worse, Edith isn’t a particularly powerful witch, she’s just the only one left to take the title. Much like Mr. Darcy, Edith is both proud and socially awkward. She’s bookish and into magical history, and very conscious of how tenuous her position is.
Our “Elizabeth” is Persephone “Poppy” Brightwell, the third of four children in the genteel but poor Brightwell family: oldest brother Heath, older sister Viola, and younger brother Oliver. Like Elizabeth, Poppy is free-spirited, likes both books and walking, and isn’t eager to jump into marriage despite knowing the precarity of her family’s position. Exactly why her family is in such lousy financial shape is a major subplot of the book, but suffice it to say that it’s connected to a deal their family made with a witch when Poppy was a child and deathly ill, which means that Poppy feels responsible for her family’s situation. Poppy also feels a weird draw to Netherford House—she’s always liked hanging out there, even though it’s trespassing for her to do so.
As you might imagine, Edith and Poppy do not immediately hit it off. Edith finds Poppy rude, Poppy finds Edith arrogant, Edith feels like she has enough on her plate without having to deal with Poppy, Poppy feels like Edith is taking Netherford Hall from her. And of course both characters are dealing with other challenges. Edith is feeling the pressure to take a wife, particularly given how weak her magic (and thus her claim) to the estate is, and not only are the local gentry shoving their daughters in her direction, but Ophelia Byrne, a vampire whose brother Laertes used to date (so to speak) her uncle Auden, claims that there was some family agreement that Ophelia and Edith marry. As if that weren’t enough, it turns out that she has some long-distant cousins, the Rookwood-Nourses, who have just shown up from America to challenge her claim to Netherford. On Poppy’s side, her always-sickly father is having health scares, the dashing Captain Evans, whose proposal she turned down, is back in town, and all the parties being held to welcome the gentlewitch are putting financial strain on the family. But wouldn’t you know it, circumstances keep bringing Edith and Poppy together….
This was really fun! In addition to the regency romance pleasures of watching characters navigate codes of propriety (plus some new codes of propriety added by the structures of magical society), wrangle over inheritances, and tactfully escape love interests they don’t want to find love with someone they do want, the book offers some big plotty questions to answer over the course of the book. To put this with a minimum of spoilers, these questions involve the nature of Edith’s powers, the deal Poppy’s parents made to save her life when she was a child, and just why Poppy is drawn to Netherford Hall. I always enjoy this kind of fantasy mystery, and there are some interesting dark touches that keep the book from being too frothy, particularly near the end.
I think there are a few structural issues, though. Most of the book is obviously from Poppy and Edith’s perspective, but Auden is also a main narrator, which feels…weird. He does have a romantic subplot, but his love interest never gets narration, at least not that I can remember, and his character frankly doesn’t have much to do with the major plot developments. He seems to be there to provide external perspective on Edith and her issues, which is helpful sometimes from an exposition perspective, but I’m not sure it’s strictly necessary, and it has the impact of making the plot feel imbalanced, like you have a main character who isn’t actually a main character. (Another romantic relationship, and another narrator, pops up very late in the book, but in the interests of avoiding spoilers I’ll only say here that this bit functioned mainly to set up a sequel, I think—it didn’t seem super necessary, but it also didn’t feel obtrusive to me.) Also, given the narrative importance of Edith and Poppy’s obligatory third-act breakup, I would have liked to see it set up a bit better—as is, it just seemed like they were talking past each other, and these kind of obvious misunderstanding-based conflicts seem a bit forced at times. There’s some interesting backstory stuff about Edith’s family that seems to zoom by really quickly, and I hope the author returns to it in future books in this universe.
That said, stylistically I think the book hits the mark for a regency pastiche romance/fantasy, and I enjoyed the wide and varied cast of characters, which helped to make the world feel fleshed out. The world-building is fun—I enjoyed all the stuff about how magical estates are run (though there’s a kind of horrifying casualness with which high-class magicians manipulate their servants that could probably be pressed on further!). There are brief nods to the homophobia and racism that one would expect of actual regency-era England, but mostly, Uncle Auden’s hooking up with a male vampire and the real problem is that he’s a vampire, not that he’s a dude. I also really liked the resolution to Edith and Poppy’s “how can we be together???” dilemma, which, really, what more can one ask of a romance novel?
The cover promises “Pride and Prejudice and Witches,” which I suppose is to some extent true, though I wouldn’t consider it a retelling so much as a book that borrows some premise and character elements from Pride and Prejudice (and, of course, its famous opening line). It takes place in a world that reminded me a bit of the world in Stephanie Burgis’s SnowspelledSnowspelled: an alternate universe in which England’s dealings with fairies have resulted both in magical powers and shifting social hierarchies. In Netherford Hall, the traditional social system of nobility, gentry, etc. has been overlaid with a system of “gentlewitches,” the heads of family-based covens who operate as local lords and, though women, take on more masculine dress and practices, including sitting on a council in Parliament and seeking wives to secure their claims to their estates. Gentlewitches are assisted by majordomos, non-magical male relatives who basically serve as seconds-in-command/housekeepers. They’re also assisted by Warders, who make protective spells; the innkeepers of witch pubs, which contain transportation portals; Pact families, which I think don’t have magic themselves but can be around it without problems and have sworn allegiance to different witch covens; and the ash-touched, who may or may not be part of Pact families and can handle magical objects. There are also hedgewitches, who also have magical powers of a much less respectable kind, as well as creatures like vampires and werewolves.
So that’s the world—where do the Pride and Prejudice elements come in? Well, our “Darcy” is Edith Rookwood, the new gentlewitch of Netherford. She’s one of only three remaining members of her coven: their London house burned down, leaving only Edith, her former party-boy uncle Auden, and her ten-year-old cousin Henry alive. Their family hasn’t been in Netherford in generations, which means the house is in bad shape and they don’t know the area at all, and to make things worse, Edith isn’t a particularly powerful witch, she’s just the only one left to take the title. Much like Mr. Darcy, Edith is both proud and socially awkward. She’s bookish and into magical history, and very conscious of how tenuous her position is.
Our “Elizabeth” is Persephone “Poppy” Brightwell, the third of four children in the genteel but poor Brightwell family: oldest brother Heath, older sister Viola, and younger brother Oliver. Like Elizabeth, Poppy is free-spirited, likes both books and walking, and isn’t eager to jump into marriage despite knowing the precarity of her family’s position. Exactly why her family is in such lousy financial shape is a major subplot of the book, but suffice it to say that it’s connected to a deal their family made with a witch when Poppy was a child and deathly ill, which means that Poppy feels responsible for her family’s situation. Poppy also feels a weird draw to Netherford House—she’s always liked hanging out there, even though it’s trespassing for her to do so.
As you might imagine, Edith and Poppy do not immediately hit it off. Edith finds Poppy rude, Poppy finds Edith arrogant, Edith feels like she has enough on her plate without having to deal with Poppy, Poppy feels like Edith is taking Netherford Hall from her. And of course both characters are dealing with other challenges. Edith is feeling the pressure to take a wife, particularly given how weak her magic (and thus her claim) to the estate is, and not only are the local gentry shoving their daughters in her direction, but Ophelia Byrne, a vampire whose brother Laertes used to date (so to speak) her uncle Auden, claims that there was some family agreement that Ophelia and Edith marry. As if that weren’t enough, it turns out that she has some long-distant cousins, the Rookwood-Nourses, who have just shown up from America to challenge her claim to Netherford. On Poppy’s side, her always-sickly father is having health scares, the dashing Captain Evans, whose proposal she turned down, is back in town, and all the parties being held to welcome the gentlewitch are putting financial strain on the family. But wouldn’t you know it, circumstances keep bringing Edith and Poppy together….
This was really fun! In addition to the regency romance pleasures of watching characters navigate codes of propriety (plus some new codes of propriety added by the structures of magical society), wrangle over inheritances, and tactfully escape love interests they don’t want to find love with someone they do want, the book offers some big plotty questions to answer over the course of the book. To put this with a minimum of spoilers, these questions involve the nature of Edith’s powers, the deal Poppy’s parents made to save her life when she was a child, and just why Poppy is drawn to Netherford Hall. I always enjoy this kind of fantasy mystery, and there are some interesting dark touches that keep the book from being too frothy, particularly near the end.
I think there are a few structural issues, though. Most of the book is obviously from Poppy and Edith’s perspective, but Auden is also a main narrator, which feels…weird. He does have a romantic subplot, but his love interest never gets narration, at least not that I can remember, and his character frankly doesn’t have much to do with the major plot developments. He seems to be there to provide external perspective on Edith and her issues, which is helpful sometimes from an exposition perspective, but I’m not sure it’s strictly necessary, and it has the impact of making the plot feel imbalanced, like you have a main character who isn’t actually a main character. (Another romantic relationship, and another narrator, pops up very late in the book, but in the interests of avoiding spoilers I’ll only say here that this bit functioned mainly to set up a sequel, I think—it didn’t seem super necessary, but it also didn’t feel obtrusive to me.) Also, given the narrative importance of Edith and Poppy’s obligatory third-act breakup, I would have liked to see it set up a bit better—as is, it just seemed like they were talking past each other, and these kind of obvious misunderstanding-based conflicts seem a bit forced at times. There’s some interesting backstory stuff about Edith’s family that seems to zoom by really quickly, and I hope the author returns to it in future books in this universe.
That said, stylistically I think the book hits the mark for a regency pastiche romance/fantasy, and I enjoyed the wide and varied cast of characters, which helped to make the world feel fleshed out. The world-building is fun—I enjoyed all the stuff about how magical estates are run (though there’s a kind of horrifying casualness with which high-class magicians manipulate their servants that could probably be pressed on further!). There are brief nods to the homophobia and racism that one would expect of actual regency-era England, but mostly, Uncle Auden’s hooking up with a male vampire and the real problem is that he’s a vampire, not that he’s a dude. I also really liked the resolution to Edith and Poppy’s “how can we be together???” dilemma, which, really, what more can one ask of a romance novel?
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