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Twisted Magic

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In a Regency world where magical gifts mean power and status, they struggle to find a place…

Persephone Thornton is in her cousin’s house to spy on him for the freedom-fighters of Wales. Sephie does not expect to actually like her cousin, Jasper and his wife, Delia. Nor does she expect her Welsh contact, one of Jasper’s gardeners, to give her the secret to using her mage gift without it twisting to give flawed results.

Taliesin Ddraennen was raised by the Welsh resistance and has been spying for them since he was sixteen. He has never before been partnered with a lady from the English aristocracy. Seeing past her thorny nature, Taz quickly comes to admire her resilience and intelligence, and when she sings with him, his magic seems to be less unreliable.

When a spell to eavesdrop on the dragon lord’s meetings is discovered and blamed on Sephie, he refuses to leave her behind. Their escape leads them into England’s ancient forests and the arms of the fae, where they discover the true nature of their mage gifts.

On their return to the outside world, their newfound connection will be immediately put to the test, when Taz is asked to choose between Sephie and Welsh freedom.

With war all around them and peace seemingly impossible, they must find the path that allows them to choose one another.

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Many Kinds of Magic
Book 1 - Unexpected Magic
Book 2 - Twisted Magic
Book 3 - Small Magic
Book 4 - Wild Magic
Book 5 - Forgotten Magic
Book 6 - Ordinary Magic
Book 7 - Dangerous Magic
Book 8 - Weird Magic
Book 9 - Dark Magic

195 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 29, 2026

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About the author

Jude Knight

103 books233 followers
Have you ever wanted something so much you were afraid to even try? That was me ten years ago.

For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to be a novelist. I even started dozens of stories, over the years.

But life kept getting in the way. A seriously ill child who required years of therapy; a rising mortgage that led to a full-time job; six children, my own chronic illness… the writing took a back seat.

As the years passed, the fear grew. If I didn't put my stories out there in the market, I wouldn't risk making a fool of myself. I could keep the dream alive if I never put it to the test.

Then my mother died. That great lady had waited her whole life to read a novel of mine, and now it would never happen.

So I faced my fear and changed it--told everyone I knew I was writing a novel. Now I'd make a fool of myself for certain if I didn't finish.

My first book came out to excellent reviews in December 2014, and the rest is history. Many books, lots of positive reviews, and a few awards later, I feel foolish for not starting earlier.

I write historical fiction with a large helping of romance, a splash of Regency, and a twist of suspense. I then try to figure out how to slot the story into a genre category. I'm mad keen on history, enjoy what happens to people in the crucible of a passionate relationship, and love to use a good mystery and some real danger as mechanisms to torture my characters.

Dip your toe into my world with one of my lunch-time reads collections or a novella, or dive into a novel. And let me know what you think.

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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Janet.
5,572 reviews66 followers
September 20, 2026
4.5 Stars
Persephone Thornton is in her cousin’s house to spy on him for the freedom-fighters of Wales. Sephie does not expect to actually like her cousin, Jasper and his wife, Delia. Nor does she expect her Welsh contact, one of Jasper’s gardeners, to give her the secret to using her mage gift without it twisting to give flawed results. Taliesin Ddraennen was raised by the Welsh resistance and has been spying for them since he was sixteen. When a spell to eavesdrop on the dragon lord’s meetings is discovered and blamed on Sephie, he refuses to leave her behind. Their escape leads them into England’s ancient forests and the arms of the fae, where they discover the true nature of their mage gifts.
The second book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own, as ever I’d recommend reading in order. Wonderful characters & well paced, I found myself drawn in. I’m not a fan of romantasy but I’m liking the author’s fantasy world more with each book! I loved both Taz & Sephie & thoroughly enjoyed their journey to a HEA

I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Profile Image for Karina  Berezhna.
133 reviews2 followers
September 19, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley

A wonderful blend of romance, magic, and intrigue.
I really enjoyed Twisted Magic. Sephie and Taz were both compelling characters, and I especially liked watching their relationship develop as they learned to trust one another. Their unusual magical gifts added an interesting dimension to their connection, and I loved the idea that together they could begin to understand abilities that had always seemed unreliable.
The mix of espionage, political tension, Welsh resistance, and fae magic kept the story engaging, while the romance gave it plenty of heart. I also enjoyed seeing Jasper and Delia again and getting another glimpse of their life after the first book.
The journey into the ancient forests and the encounters with the fae were some of my favorite parts. The world feels imaginative and distinctive, and I liked how the story explored belonging, loyalty, and the difficult choices that come with both.
A very enjoyable continuation of the Many Kinds of Magic series, with adventure, danger, magic, and a romance worth rooting for.
Thank you to NetGalley and Jude Knight for providing me with an advance copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jithendra Jithu.
2,635 reviews147 followers
October 26, 2026
Book Review: Twisted Magic
Many Kinds of Magic, Book 2
By Jude Knight

Some fantasy stories capture our imagination through magical worlds, while others draw us in through the difficult choices their characters must make. Twisted Magic by Jude Knight brings both elements together in a richly imagined Regency-inspired setting where magic, political conflict, and personal loyalties are closely intertwined. Set in a world where magical gifts influence power and status, the story explores the struggle for Welsh freedom alongside a romance that develops under complicated circumstances. I particularly enjoyed the premise because it promises not only adventure and enchantment but also an emotional journey shaped by duty, trust, and the search for belonging.

Persephone Thornton, affectionately known as Sephie, makes for a compelling central character. She begins her journey with a mission to spy on her cousin for the Welsh resistance, expecting to remain focused on her responsibilities. However, her growing affection for Jasper and Delia complicates the way she views her assignment. Her character becomes even more interesting as she discovers a better understanding of her magical gift and begins to recognize the possibilities within herself. I appreciate protagonists who are intelligent, determined, and willing to question their assumptions, and Sephie's situation offers plenty of opportunities for personal growth as she navigates the difficult space between political allegiance and genuine human connection.

Taliesin Ddraennen, or Taz, adds another fascinating perspective to the story. Raised by the Welsh resistance and trained as a spy from a young age, he carries the responsibilities of his cause with him. Working alongside Sephie challenges his expectations, and his growing admiration for her resilience and intelligence gives their relationship a natural sense of progression. One of the most distinctive details is the connection between their magical abilities and the way singing helps bring greater harmony to their powers. This creative element adds tenderness to their developing romance while reinforcing the idea that understanding another person can reveal strengths neither individual fully recognized alone.

The fantasy adventure becomes even more intriguing when Sephie is blamed for a discovered spying spell, forcing the pair into a dangerous escape through ancient forests and into the mysterious realm of the fae. I love how this journey combines magical discovery with emotional development, allowing the characters to learn more about their gifts while facing unfamiliar dangers. Their experiences also lead to a much larger conflict when Taz must confront a choice between Sephie and the cause of Welsh freedom. This dilemma gives the romance real stakes because their feelings cannot simply exist separately from the political struggles surrounding them. Love, loyalty, and sacrifice become difficult questions rather than easy answers, adding depth to the adventure.

Overall, Twisted Magic offers an appealing combination of romantic fantasy, Regency atmosphere, magical mystery, and political intrigue. Jude Knight builds a story around characters who must discover not only how to use their gifts but also what they are willing to risk for the people and principles they care about. Sephie and Taz's relationship is especially engaging because it develops alongside the challenges threatening their future, making their choices feel meaningful. For readers who enjoy imaginative magical worlds, courageous characters, mystical encounters, and romance complicated by duty, this second instalment in the Many Kinds of Magic series promises an absorbing journey filled with wonder, tension, and heartfelt moments.
Profile Image for Candace Smith.
76 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 28, 2026
Twisted Magic is a sweet story about an unlikely pairing, painful histories, unique magic, and the possibility of finding unconditional love in unexpected places.

Persephone has spent much of her life being treated as unworthy and learning to live without unconditional love. Taz has his own painful history, having lost his family because of serious injustices connected to the fight for Welsh freedom. Both have been pushed into lives shaped by other people's expectations, and both find themselves brought together through a mission that requires them to spy.

What starts with very little trust between them slowly becomes something much deeper. As Sephie learns more about her cousin, the Dragon Lord, and his wife, Delia, she begins to see them differently while still remaining committed to the freedom of Wales. Taz, meanwhile, finds himself caught between the cause he has devoted his life to and the woman he has come to love.

I especially enjoyed the way their bond becomes connected to their magic. They discover that what makes them stronger isn't simply their individual abilities, but what happens when they trust and support one another. Through each other, they find love, clarity, and a sense of unconditional acceptance that makes them incredibly powerful.

I also really enjoyed the perspective this book takes on the Fae. Rather than the usual hierarchy and individual leadership, the Fae forest is portrayed as a peaceful, community-focused society that values the collective. That was an interesting contrast to the world outside the forest.

There are also some bigger ideas woven throughout the story. One that stood out to me was the reminder that in war, there isn't always a clearly good side and a clearly evil side. Sometimes the people caught in the middle have to decide what it means to do good for others, even when the larger systems around them are broken.

The story does have a slower start, and it took me a little while to build momentum. Once it picked up, though, I found myself much more invested. The final portion moved quickly, almost a little too quickly during some of the most exciting moments, but the overall story was a sweet blend of love, bonding, magic, freedom, and the reminder that individual people can have a real impact.

A lovely fantasy romance with some thoughtful ideas underneath the magic.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Rutuja Ramteke.
2,224 reviews105 followers
November 1, 2026
Twisted Magic by Jude Knight is an enchanting blend of Regency romance, fantasy, political intrigue, and magic that kept me invested in its world and characters. Having absolutely enjoyed the first book in the Many Kinds of Magic series, I was delighted to return to this imaginative world. What makes this instalment enjoyable in its own right is the way it combines a compelling romance with questions of loyalty, identity, and the difficult choices people must make when personal happiness conflicts with a greater cause.

Persephone Thornton, or Sephie, is an interesting protagonist whose journey involves much more than spying on her cousin for the Welsh resistance. Her struggle to understand and control her magical abilities adds an intriguing layer to her character. Taliesin Ddraennen, or Taz, is equally compelling. His dedication to the Welsh cause and his growing admiration for Sephie create an engaging dynamic, and their relationship develops naturally as they navigate unfamiliar circumstances together.

One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the Regency setting, where magical abilities are closely tied to power and social standing. The political tensions surrounding the Welsh resistance give the narrative a sense of urgency, while the involvement of the fae and the mysteries surrounding the characters' gifts bring a wonderful sense of enchantment to the story.

What makes the story particularly engaging is the conflict between love and duty. Taz's loyalty to Welsh freedom and his growing feelings for Sephie place him in a difficult position, giving their relationship emotional stakes beyond the usual romantic complications. I enjoyed how the narrative explores the possibility of choosing love without abandoning one's principles.

Having loved the first book, I was happy to discover another story that builds upon the series' imaginative premise while offering its own characters, conflicts, and emotional journey. Twisted Magic is an engaging read for anyone who enjoys historical fantasy with romance, magical mysteries, and political intrigue.
Profile Image for Thegargchronicles.
192 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2026
A magical Regency adventure of love, loyalty and Welsh freedom and the courage to be true to yourself.

I was pulled in by the mix of regency society, welsh resistance, and unpredictable magic. But when Persephone meets Taz, her secret mission takes an unexpected turn and their journey becomes much more than a fight for freedom. Because as they learn the truth about their magical gifts, they'll have to deal with dangerous secrets, fae encounters and feelings that make everything more complicated.

My favourite is the relationship between Sephie and Taz. I loved how understanding and trust brought out the best in them, especially when their magic seemed to work better together.

Welsh legend, political infighting and romance combine to give the story a new and interesting twist. I also liked the theme of going against expectations to do your own thing.

Few lines from book -

“Sometimes, magic becomes stronger when two hearts learn to trust each other.”

“Sometimes, finding where you belong is the greatest magic of all.”

“In a world divided by power, choosing love can be an act of rebellion.”

“Even the most twisted magic may lead us towards the truth.”

The premise has imagination, and plenty of mileage for atmospheric world-building and emotional depth.

Definitely for those who love fantasy romance, fae, historical setting and strong characters.

Add Twisted Magic to your TBR if you love enchanting fantasy, magical secrets, fae adventures, Welsh folklore, and a romance tested by loyalty and freedom! 📚✨
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,284 reviews12 followers
October 14, 2026
Persephone Thornton is staying with her cousin, the Dragon Lord and his wife, the Catalyst. Sephie did not expect Jasper and Delia to be so nice and understanding. That makes her feel guilty about spying on him for the Welsh freedom fighters. Her Welsh contact and partner, Taliesin Ddraennen, was raised by the leader of the Welsh resistance group. is a gardener at Jasper’s estate. When their scheme to gather information on the Dragon Lord’s political meeting is discovered, they run. They find themselves in an ancient forest among the Fae. Sephie is learning how to use her magic with Taz. They both manifest their best magic through song. Together, they are a stronger force. In fact, they are a Bard Pair, a couple who bring their magic through music. The “weak and useless” mage skills the two were told they possessed were sorely misunderstood. This story is a well-stirred blend of political turmoil, intrigue, magic, family belonging, and romance. Taz and Sephie are wonderful characters, alike in many ways, who grow to trust and love each other. In the end, they save the day (I won’t say how). They are a perfect example of the wonderful things that happen when you “Sing, Sing a Song.” Great addition to the series.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Profile Image for Entisar Ali.
393 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 27, 2026
Sephie went into her cousin Jasper's household expecting to spy for the Welsh freedom fighters, never expecting to actually fall for the family she was meant to betray, and I loved watching that quiet unraveling of her loyalties. When Taz, her Welsh contact posing as a gardener, showed her how to stop her mage gift from twisting into flawed results, I felt the ground shift beneath both of them, especially once she started singing with him and his own magic steadied. The espionage tangled beautifully with the political stakes of the Welsh resistance, and when that eavesdropping spell got pinned on Sephie, Taz refusing to leave her behind sent them straight into England's ancient forests and into the fae's world, where their true magic finally made sense. Watching Taz forced to choose between Sephie and Welsh freedom while war closed in around them kept me desperate for how they'd find their way back to each other. A rich, imaginative continuation with real heart.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
1,780 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 20, 2026
Such a unique story, and a very unusual fantasy. It took me a while to get into the story and feel connection to the main characters. The beginning started out at a slow pace, but it certainly didn’t end like that.

So many twists in this story, that certainly surprised me! I didn’t see how we were going to get to HEA! The main characters and the cousins of the h, had totally different beliefs.

Love making within marriage, bedroom door closed. Some very suspenseful moments, twists, intrigue, and a great ending where everything is wrapped up perfectly.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, bumpy journey to HEA, and clean with only kisses. I can’t improve on the blurb just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. If you’re looking for something that isn’t a cookie cutter, I recommend this story.

I received ARC and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
Profile Image for Lesley.
2,688 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 18, 2026
Spies, Bard Mages and Fae.
A good follow up to book 1 and I’m glad we got to meet up with Jasper and Delia again. It is believed that Sephie’s magic is so unreliable that she is expendable but exercises with her cousin and interactions with a plant mage show the way forward. Cymru wants self-rule but activists disagree about how to achieve it. Both Sephie and Taz become embroiled in the machinations of a Welsh Lord with a troubling plan but with their new bond and help from the fae, they set a course for the future that they want. I thoroughly enjoyed this second book and loved the fae wedding.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4,557 reviews25 followers
September 29, 2026
Twisted Magic by Jude Knight is an exciting fantasy story of Political intrigue and magic. Freedom fighters of Wales against English rules, sounds like a Regency fiction story but don’t be deceived, this is more a magical story that includes unusual magical gifts with a learning curve, dragon lord rulers and ancient forest with otherworld creatures. Sephie and Taz were placed together to spy on the English dragon lord. However, their stations in society are very different yet they learn to work together after they first learn to trust each other. That is some of the best parts of this story. Their compelling story with conflict all around and difficult choices to make is an excellent mash of historical and fantasy worlds.
Profile Image for Lisa.
18 reviews
October 1, 2026
Review of ARC provided by NetGalley

„Twisted Magic“ is a cosy fantasy-spy-romance set in a Regency world.

The story has a lot of potential. When I read the description, I was hooked and was so glad that I got the opportunity to pre-read it. Unfortunately, I was really disappointed by the book.

The writing is a typical for a cosy fantasy story and sets up the right mood. Unfortunately, the story and characters were too superficial for me. I didn‘t feel any emotional connection for the MCs and therefore didn‘t really care for their romance either. I would have needed there to be more depth in dialogue, story and characters.

Nevertheless, it’s not a bad book with really good writing. If you are interested in a fairly light and cosy story, this is the book for you.
Profile Image for Gwen Brophy.
363 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 22, 2026
There's the potential for a great story in here with the bard magic, weaving through a realistic world of Regency Europe. I also liked the fae hidden in the forests of the world.

However, this book was incredibly thin. The characters were thin. The relationship was thin. Everything was about an inch deep. I don't care about any of the characters whatsoever, and I felt nothing when they married and everything was wrapped up and done.

I'm sorry to say, but I will forget this book by tomorrow. It needed to be twice a long with much more time spent on developing the characters. Sadly, that's not what happened here.
13k reviews195 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 17, 2026
What an amazing story that won’t let you down. Pershone has a secretive job to do even though it’s her cousin. How will this all turn out. The characters definitely drew me into the story and kept me there until the ending.
161 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 27, 2026
What i liked
-bard magic was cool
-liked the fmc/mmc

What was ok
Story was a bit slow and i just kind of lost interest. I think it was more of a me problem less of a book problem

3.5/5
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews