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Murder, Magic, and What We Wore
The year is 1818, the city is London, and 16-year-old Annis Whitworth has just learned that her father is dead and all his money is missing. And so, of course, she decides to become a spy.
Annis always suspected that her father was himself a spy, and following in his footsteps to unmask his killer makes perfect sense. Alas, it does not make sense to England’s current spymasters—not even when Annis reveals that she has the rare magical ability to sew glamours: garments that can disguise the wearer completely.
Well, if the spies are too pigheaded to take on a young woman of quality, then Annis will take them on. And so she crafts a new double life for herself. Miss Annis Whitworth will appear to live a quiet life in a country cottage with her aunt, and Annis-in-disguise as Madame Martine, glamour artist, will open a magical dressmaking shop. That way she can earn a living, maintain her social standing, and, in her spare time, follow the coded clues her father left behind and unmask his killer.
It can’t be any harder than navigating the London social season, can it?
Annis always suspected that her father was himself a spy, and following in his footsteps to unmask his killer makes perfect sense. Alas, it does not make sense to England’s current spymasters—not even when Annis reveals that she has the rare magical ability to sew glamours: garments that can disguise the wearer completely.
Well, if the spies are too pigheaded to take on a young woman of quality, then Annis will take them on. And so she crafts a new double life for herself. Miss Annis Whitworth will appear to live a quiet life in a country cottage with her aunt, and Annis-in-disguise as Madame Martine, glamour artist, will open a magical dressmaking shop. That way she can earn a living, maintain her social standing, and, in her spare time, follow the coded clues her father left behind and unmask his killer.
It can’t be any harder than navigating the London social season, can it?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2017
52 people are currently reading
2125 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Jones
5 books91 followersOnce upon a time, Kelly Jones was a librarian and a bookseller. Now, she writes novels for young people and takes care of a few hilarious chickens. She’s the author of Unusual Chickens for the Exceptional Poultry Farmer; Are You Ready to Hatch an Unusual Chicken?; Murder, Magic, and What We Wore; Sauerkraut; and Happily for Now. You can find her online at her website, curiosityjones.net, or on Twitter and Instagram @curiosityjones.
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Want to read
July 29, 2016Author - Regency romp.
Me - you have my attention.
Author - Spies.
Me - YES.
Author - "magicked garments that disguise the wearer."
Me - IMMA GIVE YOU ALL MY MONEY!!!
Me - you have my attention.
Author - Spies.
Me - YES.
Author - "magicked garments that disguise the wearer."
Me - IMMA GIVE YOU ALL MY MONEY!!!
November 16, 2017
Category: Regency set but not a romance
SQUEE!!! Georgette Heyer's Regency world +Magic is one of my favorite things to read. I absolutely loved Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot. That was my gateway to a whole new genre I never imagined loving. This book is no exception and it's made better by references to characters from the above mentioned novel as well as Bloody Jack, Keeping the Castle, La Petite Four, Wrapped, Kat, Incorrigible and many other young adult and middle grades Regency set novels. I have to reread all those old favorites and try some of the others.
On to the review....
The murder mystery grabbed me from the very start. It's perfectly obvious that Annis's father was a spy and killed for what he knew. By whom and why is the mystery Annis is determined to figure out. Her journey is so much fun! The plot is a romp through Regency society from grand ballrooms to an out of the way village dress shop. The magic just so happens to be a part of this world as it is in other books of this genre.
Like in Shades of Milk and Honey glamour can be used to create art, however, here it is used in a different way. Annis and Millie's glamour talent is unique to this story. I won't spoil how it works but just to say that this story is a take on Cinderella, where the heroine plays Cinderella and the fairy godmother - with nary a prince in sight! woohoo!
In this alternate world, women are intelligent and many ladies seem to know self-defense. Could they be spies? The War Office seems to ignore women's brains, as they did in the real world, but women COULD have done many of the things that happen in this novel and that's what makes it so appealing to me, a non-fantasy lover. I love the alternate history presented here. One person, one decision, one spy could have changed history and it's up to Annis and Millie to stop that person. I only rated this 4 out of 5 stars because the villain's identity was plainly obvious once the vital clue was dropped. Mille would have figured it out right away if she had been given the clue. The final twist was pretty easy to figure out too but Cassia's behavior came out of left field and didn't make sense for her character.
Annis is a character readers will either love or hate. She's young, naive and silly at times but she means well. I like how she TRIES her best and even when she makes mistakes and fails, she tries again without resorting to whining or tears. She's very brave and intelligent in her own way. She can't help being sheltered so she has to figure out everything on her own. She only sort of longs for the attention and affection of her father but since she hardly knew him, she barely misses him. I love her relationship with her Aunt Cassia, an intelligent and mathematically inclined lady who is my favorite character in the novel. Hurrah for intelligent spinster aunts! I also love Annis and Millie's friendship and how Annis has no interest in marriage.
Millie is intelligent, intrepid, brave and resourceful. I was surprised by her hidden talent. I thought this would be your typical upstairs/downstairs friendship but it goes beyond that. Millie is really a co-heroine though the story is told from Annis's point of view. Millie is awesome.
I can't say too much more without ruining the plot, but I highly recommend this book to those who love Regency + Magic Young Adult novels. I couldn't put it down. I hope for a sequel soon!!
SQUEE!!! Georgette Heyer's Regency world +Magic is one of my favorite things to read. I absolutely loved Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot. That was my gateway to a whole new genre I never imagined loving. This book is no exception and it's made better by references to characters from the above mentioned novel as well as Bloody Jack, Keeping the Castle, La Petite Four, Wrapped, Kat, Incorrigible and many other young adult and middle grades Regency set novels. I have to reread all those old favorites and try some of the others.
On to the review....
The murder mystery grabbed me from the very start. It's perfectly obvious that Annis's father was a spy and killed for what he knew. By whom and why is the mystery Annis is determined to figure out. Her journey is so much fun! The plot is a romp through Regency society from grand ballrooms to an out of the way village dress shop. The magic just so happens to be a part of this world as it is in other books of this genre.
Like in Shades of Milk and Honey glamour can be used to create art, however, here it is used in a different way. Annis and Millie's glamour talent is unique to this story. I won't spoil how it works but just to say that this story is a take on Cinderella, where the heroine plays Cinderella and the fairy godmother - with nary a prince in sight! woohoo!
In this alternate world, women are intelligent and many ladies seem to know self-defense. Could they be spies? The War Office seems to ignore women's brains, as they did in the real world, but women COULD have done many of the things that happen in this novel and that's what makes it so appealing to me, a non-fantasy lover. I love the alternate history presented here. One person, one decision, one spy could have changed history and it's up to Annis and Millie to stop that person. I only rated this 4 out of 5 stars because the villain's identity was plainly obvious once the vital clue was dropped. Mille would have figured it out right away if she had been given the clue. The final twist was pretty easy to figure out too but Cassia's behavior came out of left field and didn't make sense for her character.
Annis is a character readers will either love or hate. She's young, naive and silly at times but she means well. I like how she TRIES her best and even when she makes mistakes and fails, she tries again without resorting to whining or tears. She's very brave and intelligent in her own way. She can't help being sheltered so she has to figure out everything on her own. She only sort of longs for the attention and affection of her father but since she hardly knew him, she barely misses him. I love her relationship with her Aunt Cassia, an intelligent and mathematically inclined lady who is my favorite character in the novel. Hurrah for intelligent spinster aunts! I also love Annis and Millie's friendship and how Annis has no interest in marriage.
Millie is intelligent, intrepid, brave and resourceful. I was surprised by her hidden talent. I thought this would be your typical upstairs/downstairs friendship but it goes beyond that. Millie is really a co-heroine though the story is told from Annis's point of view. Millie is awesome.
I can't say too much more without ruining the plot, but I highly recommend this book to those who love Regency + Magic Young Adult novels. I couldn't put it down. I hope for a sequel soon!!
January 29, 2018
3-1/2 stars, rounded up because this was just so charming
I especially loved the magic in this story. There are various sorts, but most of them aren't particularly wild or flashy. Annis's magic consists of convincing dresses to become flattering to their wearers. It takes time (actual sewing) and energy, and doesn't always turn out the way she planned. I appreciated that the magic felt like work, and wasn't too easy. I could feel Annis's work in my own fingers as she described it, which I thought was really well done.
I also really liked that Cassia is a feminist, and it's not just there as an anachronistic touch. She reads Mary Wollstonecraft and quotes her to Annis; she also corresponds with a group of mathematically-inclined women. She seems perfectly happy being a spinster. She can also be quite pesky, as she likes to push pragmatic advice on younger women, whether they wish to hear it or not. She's a well-developed and very enjoyable character.
This book was just plain fun, despite the "murder" aspect of the story. I'm pleased to see that while this isn't marked as a start to a series, the ending does leave it open to a sequel or two. I would definitely read more books about Annis and Cassia.
I have to give a shout-out to Genna’s review, which left me watching for this book very eagerly! It lived up to exactly what I was hoping from it.
When Annis Whitworth's father dies during one of his many travels, Annis and her aunt Cassia find themselves destitute, forced out of their comfortable London home and into a cottage in a small town. Cassia is determined to push Annis into respectable work for a young lady, either as a governess or as a widow's companion. Annis wants none of that. She's just become aware of her ability to sew glamours, and insists on setting up shop (in disguise, of course, since making dresses is not respectable work). She's also discovered that her father was a spy, and sets out to follow in his footsteps.I really enjoyed this book. On the one hand, I'm not sure the spying plot quite holds up, and one plot "twist" was glaringly obvious through the whole book. But on the other hand, I loved Annis's madcap, rollicking approach to life, and the light and funny tone the story maintains. (Think Sorcery & Cecilia: Or the Enchanted Chocolate Pot if you've read that one.)
I especially loved the magic in this story. There are various sorts, but most of them aren't particularly wild or flashy. Annis's magic consists of convincing dresses to become flattering to their wearers. It takes time (actual sewing) and energy, and doesn't always turn out the way she planned. I appreciated that the magic felt like work, and wasn't too easy. I could feel Annis's work in my own fingers as she described it, which I thought was really well done.
I also really liked that Cassia is a feminist, and it's not just there as an anachronistic touch. She reads Mary Wollstonecraft and quotes her to Annis; she also corresponds with a group of mathematically-inclined women. She seems perfectly happy being a spinster. She can also be quite pesky, as she likes to push pragmatic advice on younger women, whether they wish to hear it or not. She's a well-developed and very enjoyable character.
This book was just plain fun, despite the "murder" aspect of the story. I'm pleased to see that while this isn't marked as a start to a series, the ending does leave it open to a sequel or two. I would definitely read more books about Annis and Cassia.
I have to give a shout-out to Genna’s review, which left me watching for this book very eagerly! It lived up to exactly what I was hoping from it.
August 22, 2017
Murder, Magic, and What We Wore
is a bewitching tale replete with lies, spies, and untrustworthy allies.
Most agreeable aspects of this tale:
🎀 famous quotes at the beginning of every chapter
🎀 the magical realism element
🎀 set in the Regency era (my fav!)
🎀 a suspenseful murder mystery
🎀 Jane Austen vibes
🎀 strong-willed female heroine (she can solve any crime by dinner time)
Final thoughts:
My admiration for this book is comparable to Mr. Darcy's for Ms. Bennet:
Although this book doesn't necessitate a sequel, I am wholeheartedly invested in these characters and I would love to see a little romance sewn into Annis' future as well. So I highly anticipate (and pray) that Ms. Jones will be kind enough to expand this enthralling story into a series.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.🌹
“Give a girl an education and introduce her properly into the world, and ten to one but she has the means of settling well, without further expense to anybody.”
― Jane Austen
Most agreeable aspects of this tale:
🎀 famous quotes at the beginning of every chapter
🎀 the magical realism element
🎀 set in the Regency era (my fav!)
🎀 a suspenseful murder mystery
🎀 Jane Austen vibes
🎀 strong-willed female heroine (she can solve any crime by dinner time)
Final thoughts:
My admiration for this book is comparable to Mr. Darcy's for Ms. Bennet:
“I cannot fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look or the words, which laid the foundation. It is too long ago. I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun.”
Although this book doesn't necessitate a sequel, I am wholeheartedly invested in these characters and I would love to see a little romance sewn into Annis' future as well. So I highly anticipate (and pray) that Ms. Jones will be kind enough to expand this enthralling story into a series.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.🌹
unfinished
February 8, 2018This was charming while I was reading it. But I made the mistake of putting it down and can't bring myself to bother picking it back up again. I find that the heroine doesn't survive reflection very well and the brashness and inconsistencies added up enough to prevent going further. For someone supposedly smart, she makes a lot of dumb assumptions and rash promises and I'm a little tired of the bumbling. Also, it'd help if the bad guys weren't so unrelentingly (and openly) appalling.
Anyway, I'm releasing this "without prejudice" (so no rating) because I did enjoy it while reading and I'm simply not bothering to continue. Also, this lets me pick it up again later if I find myself in the right mood (and close to my library as the prices for this one are egregious).
Anyway, I'm releasing this "without prejudice" (so no rating) because I did enjoy it while reading and I'm simply not bothering to continue. Also, this lets me pick it up again later if I find myself in the right mood (and close to my library as the prices for this one are egregious).
September 19, 2017
I received a free eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Annis Whitworth had always suspected that her father was a spy. When she learns of her father's sudden death and that all of his money has gone missing, she decides to follow in his footsteps as a spy and uncover the mystery of his murder. It makes perfect sense to her, but it doesn't make sense to England's top spymasters even though Annis has the rare ability to sew glamours - garments that can completely disguise the wearer. Annis has to create a double life for herself - Annis will live the quiet life with her respectable aunt and in disguise she'd become "Madame Martine", a London-based glamour artist with a magical dressmaking shop. That way she'll still be able to maintain her social standing, earn her own living, and follow the clues that her father left behind to solve his murder. It can't be much harder than successfully making it through the London social season, can it?
I've always enjoyed historical fantasy and Kelly Jones's Regency Era set mystery is no exception. I wasn't terribly blown away by the mystery element, but it has so much else going for it. I, for one, loved the getting to know our cast, the wonderful female friendship, the magical elements, and clever wit. I particularly liked that Annis, although clever and determined, still has a lot to learn about herself, her abilities, and the wider world. As much as I liked her, though, I really liked Millie, Annis's servant. Let's just say she's quite resourceful and has a lot of hidden depths. Plus, their friendship is empowering, supportive, and is totally goals worthy. I also have to admit, I liked the reveal about Annis's aunt - very cool. Finally, I was also hooked on what we got about Annis's magic. The glamour sewing scenes were some of my favorites. I really only wish we got to know more about the state of magic in the wider world of Regency England.
Overall, Murder, Magic, and What We Wore by Kelly Jones is a fun fantasy spy caper through Regency Era London. If you're a fan of historical fantasy such as These Vicious Masks by Kelly Zekas and Tarun Shanker, A Shadow Bright and Burning by Jessica Cluess, The Dark Days Club by Alison Goodman, and Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, I have a feeling you'll also enjoy Kelly Jones's new release. I'm definitely looking forward to more from this author in the future.
Annis Whitworth had always suspected that her father was a spy. When she learns of her father's sudden death and that all of his money has gone missing, she decides to follow in his footsteps as a spy and uncover the mystery of his murder. It makes perfect sense to her, but it doesn't make sense to England's top spymasters even though Annis has the rare ability to sew glamours - garments that can completely disguise the wearer. Annis has to create a double life for herself - Annis will live the quiet life with her respectable aunt and in disguise she'd become "Madame Martine", a London-based glamour artist with a magical dressmaking shop. That way she'll still be able to maintain her social standing, earn her own living, and follow the clues that her father left behind to solve his murder. It can't be much harder than successfully making it through the London social season, can it?
I've always enjoyed historical fantasy and Kelly Jones's Regency Era set mystery is no exception. I wasn't terribly blown away by the mystery element, but it has so much else going for it. I, for one, loved the getting to know our cast, the wonderful female friendship, the magical elements, and clever wit. I particularly liked that Annis, although clever and determined, still has a lot to learn about herself, her abilities, and the wider world. As much as I liked her, though, I really liked Millie, Annis's servant. Let's just say she's quite resourceful and has a lot of hidden depths. Plus, their friendship is empowering, supportive, and is totally goals worthy. I also have to admit, I liked the reveal about Annis's aunt - very cool. Finally, I was also hooked on what we got about Annis's magic. The glamour sewing scenes were some of my favorites. I really only wish we got to know more about the state of magic in the wider world of Regency England.
Overall, Murder, Magic, and What We Wore by Kelly Jones is a fun fantasy spy caper through Regency Era London. If you're a fan of historical fantasy such as These Vicious Masks by Kelly Zekas and Tarun Shanker, A Shadow Bright and Burning by Jessica Cluess, The Dark Days Club by Alison Goodman, and Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, I have a feeling you'll also enjoy Kelly Jones's new release. I'm definitely looking forward to more from this author in the future.
January 19, 2018
Originally posted here at Random Musings of a Bibliophile.
Regency Era. Spy Games. Magic. Fashion. If the title and cover of Murder, Magic, and What We Wore by Kelly Jones were not enough to snare me, those word would seal the deal. As soon as I found out this book existed (which was later than I'm comfortable with), I wanted to read it. It isn't a perfect book, and I have some quibbles, but the bottom line is this book is just delightful.
Annis discovers her father is dead and that she and her aunt are nearly penniless. They must seek genteel employment, but Annis does not wish to be a lady's companion or governess. When she discovers that her talent with alterations is more than a talent with needle and thread, but the magical ability to sew glamours, Annis decides she will make their fortune selling glamoured gowns. With her maid Millie at her side, Annis sets out to convince her Aunt Cassia she is capable of succeeding. Cassia reluctantly agrees to give her a chance. Annis is relieved because she needs to prove herself to more than just her aunt. Annis knows her father was murdered because he was a spy for the British in France. When she stumbles on to incriminating documents he left behind, Annis works to convince the War Office to take her on as well. They are less than impressed with her, but that doesn't stop Annis from continuing to try. Soon Annis has her hands full making gowns, masquerading as a French dressmaker, dodging dangerous operatives, and managing a social life. Fortunately she has all the help she could want from Millie. Both girls soon discover the power they have when they work together, and the rest of the world had better watch out.
Murder, Magic, and What We Wore is told in first person from Annis's point of view. Annis is smart and competent, but also naive and rash. She does several reckless, thoughtless things, but she has a determination and spark for life that make her irresistible as a heroine. All of the things she does that appear reckless and thoughtless can be explained by her age and generally sheltered life. Annis's determination and back bone are her greatest strengths. Her Aunt Cassia is no wilting flower, easily manipulated, or turned from her purpose without a great deal of effort. Annis has learned her strength from her aunt and earned her steel through years of dealing with her. When the time comes for Annis to decide what she wants from life, nothing is going to stand in her way. If she has to make it happen through sheer force of will, that's what she will do. She makes mistakes and missteps, learns from them, and moves on to the next challenge. Her voice is full of wit and sarcasm, but is also vulnerable in many ways. Annis can't get where she need to alone though. Millie is the perfect foil for Annis. Calm, collected, practical, and with more world experience. She is the most newly hired maid in the household and the one who stays to stand with Annis and Cassia as they lose almost everything. Not that she has much of a choice, but she makes the best of her situation. She sees great potential in Annis and together the girls work to make their visions of the future a reality. They are a true team, and Millie is as much the heroine of the story as Annis is. I love books that celebrate and hold up female friendships. This one does a beautiful job with that. Annis and Millie are incredibly different and from separate worlds, but they are bonded by their purpose, experiences, and sympathies for each other. There is a cast of other great female secondary characters as well (including Aunt Cassia who is AMAZING and should have a whole book written about just her).
The world of the novel is Regency England but with magic. There are people who can sew glamours, sing enchantments, paint illusions, etc. It is post Napoleonic Wars, and Napoleon is in his exile on St. Helena. The plot revolves around this fact, a possible traitor, French plots, and sunken ships. Annis is attempting to investigate all this while starting her dress shop. Unfortunately being as young and inexperienced as she is, she is found out rather quickly and finds herself in a race against the murder she is trying to unmask. Her and Millie have to decide who to trust and who to tell what. Can Annis trust her father's man of business Mr. Harrington? How much can Aunt Cassia know? Who among the other member's of society can Annis turn to? The plot moves quickly. The mystery is interesting, if easy to figure out. (Nothing about the reveals in this novel surprised me, but that didn't make it any less fun for me to read.)
My favorite thing was definitely how much this book celebrated women and their friendships. There is no romance (though there is a small hint for a potential one in Annis's future). I know teens who are looking for fantasy adventures, but are a little tired of the focus on romance. This is the perfect book for them.
I was hoping to discover that this is the first in a series, because I would love to read more. I haven't found any indication that it is, but I will live in hope.
Regency Era. Spy Games. Magic. Fashion. If the title and cover of Murder, Magic, and What We Wore by Kelly Jones were not enough to snare me, those word would seal the deal. As soon as I found out this book existed (which was later than I'm comfortable with), I wanted to read it. It isn't a perfect book, and I have some quibbles, but the bottom line is this book is just delightful.
Annis discovers her father is dead and that she and her aunt are nearly penniless. They must seek genteel employment, but Annis does not wish to be a lady's companion or governess. When she discovers that her talent with alterations is more than a talent with needle and thread, but the magical ability to sew glamours, Annis decides she will make their fortune selling glamoured gowns. With her maid Millie at her side, Annis sets out to convince her Aunt Cassia she is capable of succeeding. Cassia reluctantly agrees to give her a chance. Annis is relieved because she needs to prove herself to more than just her aunt. Annis knows her father was murdered because he was a spy for the British in France. When she stumbles on to incriminating documents he left behind, Annis works to convince the War Office to take her on as well. They are less than impressed with her, but that doesn't stop Annis from continuing to try. Soon Annis has her hands full making gowns, masquerading as a French dressmaker, dodging dangerous operatives, and managing a social life. Fortunately she has all the help she could want from Millie. Both girls soon discover the power they have when they work together, and the rest of the world had better watch out.
Murder, Magic, and What We Wore is told in first person from Annis's point of view. Annis is smart and competent, but also naive and rash. She does several reckless, thoughtless things, but she has a determination and spark for life that make her irresistible as a heroine. All of the things she does that appear reckless and thoughtless can be explained by her age and generally sheltered life. Annis's determination and back bone are her greatest strengths. Her Aunt Cassia is no wilting flower, easily manipulated, or turned from her purpose without a great deal of effort. Annis has learned her strength from her aunt and earned her steel through years of dealing with her. When the time comes for Annis to decide what she wants from life, nothing is going to stand in her way. If she has to make it happen through sheer force of will, that's what she will do. She makes mistakes and missteps, learns from them, and moves on to the next challenge. Her voice is full of wit and sarcasm, but is also vulnerable in many ways. Annis can't get where she need to alone though. Millie is the perfect foil for Annis. Calm, collected, practical, and with more world experience. She is the most newly hired maid in the household and the one who stays to stand with Annis and Cassia as they lose almost everything. Not that she has much of a choice, but she makes the best of her situation. She sees great potential in Annis and together the girls work to make their visions of the future a reality. They are a true team, and Millie is as much the heroine of the story as Annis is. I love books that celebrate and hold up female friendships. This one does a beautiful job with that. Annis and Millie are incredibly different and from separate worlds, but they are bonded by their purpose, experiences, and sympathies for each other. There is a cast of other great female secondary characters as well (including Aunt Cassia who is AMAZING and should have a whole book written about just her).
The world of the novel is Regency England but with magic. There are people who can sew glamours, sing enchantments, paint illusions, etc. It is post Napoleonic Wars, and Napoleon is in his exile on St. Helena. The plot revolves around this fact, a possible traitor, French plots, and sunken ships. Annis is attempting to investigate all this while starting her dress shop. Unfortunately being as young and inexperienced as she is, she is found out rather quickly and finds herself in a race against the murder she is trying to unmask. Her and Millie have to decide who to trust and who to tell what. Can Annis trust her father's man of business Mr. Harrington? How much can Aunt Cassia know? Who among the other member's of society can Annis turn to? The plot moves quickly. The mystery is interesting, if easy to figure out. (Nothing about the reveals in this novel surprised me, but that didn't make it any less fun for me to read.)
My favorite thing was definitely how much this book celebrated women and their friendships. There is no romance (though there is a small hint for a potential one in Annis's future). I know teens who are looking for fantasy adventures, but are a little tired of the focus on romance. This is the perfect book for them.
I was hoping to discover that this is the first in a series, because I would love to read more. I haven't found any indication that it is, but I will live in hope.
June 3, 2017
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's 1818 London and 16-year-old Annis is leading the life of a typical society girl. However, when her father dies mysteriously and his accounts drained of money, her suspicions about him being a spy are confirmed. Left alone with her aunt and nearly destitute, the desperate pair, along with their maid Millie, move out of London to lead a quiet life in the country. Annis, however, is determined to make a living as a businesswoman, despite her aunt's misgivings. In disguise to protect her reputation and equipped with her recently discovered affinity for magic, Annis hopes to recover her family's fortune sewing glamours for society ladies, all the while hunting for her father's killer. But dangerous men are in hot pursuit of coded messages Annis is in possession of and becoming a spy is not nearly as straightforward as she thought.
A delightful regency romp with magic, mystery, and no shortage of wit. I was thoroughly charmed by the clever Annis and her resilient and resourceful maid Millie. The glamour sewing scenes were captivating, the genuine female friendship representation just what I like to see in young adult lit, and the action saucy enough to keep this story moving. Jones even cleverly includes a smorgasbord of literary and historical/mythical allusions for those who may be familiar (and a useful guide at the back for those who may not be). The ending felt rather abrupt, but didn't prevent me from loving Murder, Magic, and What We Wore. Enchanting, adventurous, and with the perfect amount of grit to save the plot from getting syrupy.
It's 1818 London and 16-year-old Annis is leading the life of a typical society girl. However, when her father dies mysteriously and his accounts drained of money, her suspicions about him being a spy are confirmed. Left alone with her aunt and nearly destitute, the desperate pair, along with their maid Millie, move out of London to lead a quiet life in the country. Annis, however, is determined to make a living as a businesswoman, despite her aunt's misgivings. In disguise to protect her reputation and equipped with her recently discovered affinity for magic, Annis hopes to recover her family's fortune sewing glamours for society ladies, all the while hunting for her father's killer. But dangerous men are in hot pursuit of coded messages Annis is in possession of and becoming a spy is not nearly as straightforward as she thought.
A delightful regency romp with magic, mystery, and no shortage of wit. I was thoroughly charmed by the clever Annis and her resilient and resourceful maid Millie. The glamour sewing scenes were captivating, the genuine female friendship representation just what I like to see in young adult lit, and the action saucy enough to keep this story moving. Jones even cleverly includes a smorgasbord of literary and historical/mythical allusions for those who may be familiar (and a useful guide at the back for those who may not be). The ending felt rather abrupt, but didn't prevent me from loving Murder, Magic, and What We Wore. Enchanting, adventurous, and with the perfect amount of grit to save the plot from getting syrupy.
September 21, 2017
Murder, Magic, and What We Wore is an addictively adorable story full of magic, mysteries, and misconceptions. It's going up on my shelf of light and fun historical fiction novels that I save for whenever I need something that will make me smile. If you enjoyed The Stranje House series, this series opener is definitely for you.
Following the death of her father, Annis Whitworth and her aunt find that they are in dire financial straights and unable to keep up the genteel lifestyle to which they have been accustomed. After a fortuitous discovery of her glamour sewing ability, Annis convinces her aunt to move with her to a small town and open a couture boutique. Add in Annis trying to join the secret spy network her father belonged to, some political intrigue regarded Napoleon, and high society and you've got the recipe for a wonderfully entertaining read.
I instantly connected with Annis. She was very determined and resourceful, although sometimes those qualities got her into sticky situations. I loved how this book turned the idea of the role of women in high society on its head, particularly in the latter half of the book. There was just a hint of romance, which actually worked perfectly in context. Perhaps we’ll see more in book two?
The plot was sometimes slightly confusing as it jumped from spy intrigue to society balls but not overly so. I was able to keep up with the various plot-lines and I admired how well they were interwoven. There were times in this book that I laughed out loud. I thought that the magic itself was unique and interesting. However, I do wish that the magic system in this world had been explained a bit better.
I absolutely adored Murder, Magic, and What We Wore. I’ll definitely be purchasing a copy when it’s released as well as continuing on with the series. Perfect if you’re looking for a light, fun historical fiction novel!
*Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Following the death of her father, Annis Whitworth and her aunt find that they are in dire financial straights and unable to keep up the genteel lifestyle to which they have been accustomed. After a fortuitous discovery of her glamour sewing ability, Annis convinces her aunt to move with her to a small town and open a couture boutique. Add in Annis trying to join the secret spy network her father belonged to, some political intrigue regarded Napoleon, and high society and you've got the recipe for a wonderfully entertaining read.
I instantly connected with Annis. She was very determined and resourceful, although sometimes those qualities got her into sticky situations. I loved how this book turned the idea of the role of women in high society on its head, particularly in the latter half of the book. There was just a hint of romance, which actually worked perfectly in context. Perhaps we’ll see more in book two?
The plot was sometimes slightly confusing as it jumped from spy intrigue to society balls but not overly so. I was able to keep up with the various plot-lines and I admired how well they were interwoven. There were times in this book that I laughed out loud. I thought that the magic itself was unique and interesting. However, I do wish that the magic system in this world had been explained a bit better.
I absolutely adored Murder, Magic, and What We Wore. I’ll definitely be purchasing a copy when it’s released as well as continuing on with the series. Perfect if you’re looking for a light, fun historical fiction novel!
*Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
January 1, 2018
Loved the first half, not so much the second. Very obvious twists, underdeveloped plot points, and weirdly cartoonish behavior from previously normal characters ( ) I liked the main character, though, and the barely there/not there romance. The fashion commentary was a blast to read, as was the creative use of historical figures.
Promising, but in the end doesn't reach its full potential.
Promising, but in the end doesn't reach its full potential.
August 28, 2017
While this book didn't knock my socks off, it was a fun little regency romp. I can never pass up a title that promises historical fiction with a splash of magic. This is a title for anyone who enjoyed Love, Lies, and Spies, but, in my opinion, it didn't quite live up to the Sorcery and Celia touted in the blurb.
Here's what I liked:
- There were three strong, intriguing women who formed positive, supportive relationships
- The narrator wasn't a special snowflake - in fact, she had a lot to learn and, even with hard work, she often had to turn to those smarter and more talented than her for help. In a YA world where it seems like our leading ladies always have the perfect blend of looks-humility-strength-mystery-innocence-experience-brains-leadership skills-and-archery prowess, it is rather refreshing to meet a character that just isn't very good at some things. Period.
Things that I wasn't so wild about:
-The romance was almost non-existant. While it wasn't NECESSARY to the story, I do think it would have been a lot more fun if the handsome, mysterious fellow and our protagonist had a bit more interaction - especially since she doesn't trust him...What's more fun than a showdown of Jane Austen-esque wits in the middle of a ball between two characters that are intrigued by eachother, but also might be enemies???? WHAT IS MORE FUN??!?!?!?!!
- Overall, I thought the male characters could have been a little more fleshed-out. I realize they were side characters - but they fell into very predictable archetypes and I would have appreciated a little more nuance.
- Finally, I just didn't feel the plot MOVED. I often found myself stuck in pages of why miss-so-and-so shouldn't wear that color or why mrs.-such-and-such should let her daughter wear pleats instead of ruffles...I just....didn't care. I wanted MORE spying, MORE threats surfacing, MORE double crossing, MORE magical hijinks, MORE than just clothes and the day to day worries of being broke.
I will say, in the end, the pace really picked up and I feel the next book will (hopefully) be more plot-driven than the first. I enjoyed these characters and will definitely check out the next one when it gets here.
Here's what I liked:
- There were three strong, intriguing women who formed positive, supportive relationships
- The narrator wasn't a special snowflake - in fact, she had a lot to learn and, even with hard work, she often had to turn to those smarter and more talented than her for help. In a YA world where it seems like our leading ladies always have the perfect blend of looks-humility-strength-mystery-innocence-experience-brains-leadership skills-and-archery prowess, it is rather refreshing to meet a character that just isn't very good at some things. Period.
Things that I wasn't so wild about:
-The romance was almost non-existant. While it wasn't NECESSARY to the story, I do think it would have been a lot more fun if the handsome, mysterious fellow and our protagonist had a bit more interaction - especially since she doesn't trust him...What's more fun than a showdown of Jane Austen-esque wits in the middle of a ball between two characters that are intrigued by eachother, but also might be enemies???? WHAT IS MORE FUN??!?!?!?!!
- Overall, I thought the male characters could have been a little more fleshed-out. I realize they were side characters - but they fell into very predictable archetypes and I would have appreciated a little more nuance.
- Finally, I just didn't feel the plot MOVED. I often found myself stuck in pages of why miss-so-and-so shouldn't wear that color or why mrs.-such-and-such should let her daughter wear pleats instead of ruffles...I just....didn't care. I wanted MORE spying, MORE threats surfacing, MORE double crossing, MORE magical hijinks, MORE than just clothes and the day to day worries of being broke.
I will say, in the end, the pace really picked up and I feel the next book will (hopefully) be more plot-driven than the first. I enjoyed these characters and will definitely check out the next one when it gets here.
April 5, 2017
I devoured my ARC of this book in one day and sent this blurb to Kelly's editor: "A deliciously enchanting adventure full of magic, mystery and delight."
It was just so much fun! Regency girl spies, magical sewing, disguises, and strong female friendships. Perfect!
Also, on a completely personal level, I *loved* the fact that my own Kat Stephenson's family is mentioned twice in this novel, as background characters in the world. (Kelly wrote to me last year asking for permission and quoting her incredibly charming & funny lines about them, and I wrote back "OMG YES PLEASE!" How cool is that, to see Kat and her family living on in the literary world of Regency fantasy???? I loved coming across those lines in the book, even though it's totally background level.)
It was just so much fun! Regency girl spies, magical sewing, disguises, and strong female friendships. Perfect!
Also, on a completely personal level, I *loved* the fact that my own Kat Stephenson's family is mentioned twice in this novel, as background characters in the world. (Kelly wrote to me last year asking for permission and quoting her incredibly charming & funny lines about them, and I wrote back "OMG YES PLEASE!" How cool is that, to see Kat and her family living on in the literary world of Regency fantasy???? I loved coming across those lines in the book, even though it's totally background level.)
November 2, 2017
Magical and mysterious, Murder, Magic, and What We Wore was such a fun tale that kept me glued to the pages until the very last word.
The story begins with Annis Whitworth receiving some very crushing news - her father is dead, killed in his line of work that takes him here there and everywhere. While Annis and her father were never particularly close, being that he spent the majority of his time away on business, his death still leaves her in a deep state of mourning. Now she and her aunt Cassia are forced with the reality that the comfortable lives they’ve become accustomed to will soon be a thing of the past. Her father had money, but his money mysteriously disappeared. Forced with the prospect of finding jobs or facing the debtors’ prison, Annis knows that being a spy will both provide for them and give them a way to erase their debt. Problem is, the War Office doesn’t want Annis among their ranks. With that dream up in smoke, Annis and her aunt move to the country in hopes of Annis trying her hand at dressmaking. Annis knows she has a particular way of choosing gowns that highlight the wearer, surely that should crossover into making dresses.
The world in this book was so incredibly fun! Set during the Regency period, Jones’ version of England is also filled with magic in the form of glamours, and I really wish that the magical elements were explored a bit further. There were only a handful of characters who displayed their abilities and I was left wanting a bit more detail. But the highlight of this book was definitely the spies, so I can kind of see why the magic was more in the background rather than front and center. Speaking of spies, there were many, many spies running amok and Jones did a fantastic job disguising them and making me guess who was, who wasn’t, who could have been, who definitely wasn’t a spy, and I will say that I didn’t guess one single one correctly.
All in all, Murder, Magic, and What We Wore was such a unique and delightful read and I can only hope that this is to become a series. It appears to be simply a standalone, which is perfectly fine, but I certainly won’t have any complaints if Jones ever decides to write more books with these characters and this world.
*eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story begins with Annis Whitworth receiving some very crushing news - her father is dead, killed in his line of work that takes him here there and everywhere. While Annis and her father were never particularly close, being that he spent the majority of his time away on business, his death still leaves her in a deep state of mourning. Now she and her aunt Cassia are forced with the reality that the comfortable lives they’ve become accustomed to will soon be a thing of the past. Her father had money, but his money mysteriously disappeared. Forced with the prospect of finding jobs or facing the debtors’ prison, Annis knows that being a spy will both provide for them and give them a way to erase their debt. Problem is, the War Office doesn’t want Annis among their ranks. With that dream up in smoke, Annis and her aunt move to the country in hopes of Annis trying her hand at dressmaking. Annis knows she has a particular way of choosing gowns that highlight the wearer, surely that should crossover into making dresses.
The world in this book was so incredibly fun! Set during the Regency period, Jones’ version of England is also filled with magic in the form of glamours, and I really wish that the magical elements were explored a bit further. There were only a handful of characters who displayed their abilities and I was left wanting a bit more detail. But the highlight of this book was definitely the spies, so I can kind of see why the magic was more in the background rather than front and center. Speaking of spies, there were many, many spies running amok and Jones did a fantastic job disguising them and making me guess who was, who wasn’t, who could have been, who definitely wasn’t a spy, and I will say that I didn’t guess one single one correctly.
All in all, Murder, Magic, and What We Wore was such a unique and delightful read and I can only hope that this is to become a series. It appears to be simply a standalone, which is perfectly fine, but I certainly won’t have any complaints if Jones ever decides to write more books with these characters and this world.
*eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 17, 2017
I like historical mysteries, the Regency time period, and magic which made this book a no-brainer choice for me. The story begins when 16-year-old Annis Whitworth learns that her father has died in France. When her father's man of business arrives to tell Annis and her Aunt Cassia about the death, he also tells them that her father died penniless. Annis and Aunt Cassia are looking at a major life change!
Her aunt is determined that the two look for work as governesses or companions but Annis has a different plan: she wants to be a spy for England. After all, she has figured out that her father was one and she has deciphered some clues that were in his effects that the War Office needs to know. However, the War Office doesn't need a teenage lady to work for them.
Annis falls back on her plan two. While remaking ready-made mourning clothes for herself and her aunt, she discovers that she is a glamour mage who is able to change the appearance of things by sewing them. Besides making clothing more fashionable and flattering, she can also make clothes that disguise the wearer as someone else. She is certain that that skill will be useful to the War Office but she is rebuffed again.
She and her aunt, along with their new maid Millicent O'Leary, move to a small town where Annis disguises herself as a French widow Madame Martine who is an extraordinary fashionable dressmaker. Annis is determined to earn enough for them all to resume their fashionable and upper class lives.
Annis and Millicent face a number of dangers. There are the men wearing navy boots who are pursuing them. There is the upper class villain who attempted to rape Millicent and whose sister took his side losing Millicent her job.
This was an engaging story. I liked Annis despite the fact that she was more than a little naive. She had plenty of determination. Fans of historical mysteries with some magic will enjoy this story.
Her aunt is determined that the two look for work as governesses or companions but Annis has a different plan: she wants to be a spy for England. After all, she has figured out that her father was one and she has deciphered some clues that were in his effects that the War Office needs to know. However, the War Office doesn't need a teenage lady to work for them.
Annis falls back on her plan two. While remaking ready-made mourning clothes for herself and her aunt, she discovers that she is a glamour mage who is able to change the appearance of things by sewing them. Besides making clothing more fashionable and flattering, she can also make clothes that disguise the wearer as someone else. She is certain that that skill will be useful to the War Office but she is rebuffed again.
She and her aunt, along with their new maid Millicent O'Leary, move to a small town where Annis disguises herself as a French widow Madame Martine who is an extraordinary fashionable dressmaker. Annis is determined to earn enough for them all to resume their fashionable and upper class lives.
Annis and Millicent face a number of dangers. There are the men wearing navy boots who are pursuing them. There is the upper class villain who attempted to rape Millicent and whose sister took his side losing Millicent her job.
This was an engaging story. I liked Annis despite the fact that she was more than a little naive. She had plenty of determination. Fans of historical mysteries with some magic will enjoy this story.
June 24, 2017
This had a fun, lighthearted Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot vibe. I found the protagonist to be a bit unlikable throughout most of the book, but the plot kept me engaged enough that I didn't mind. I would love to read a companion book from Millie's point of view--I found it much easier to root for her than Annis, and really want to know more about her.
Thanks to Knopf and Edelweiss for providing a digital review copy.
Thanks to Knopf and Edelweiss for providing a digital review copy.
January 22, 2019
Funny and sweet. Maybe even a little bit farcical, not serious at all, but very, very charming. It made me smile. This YA historical hovers on the edge between a spy thriller and a dressmaking romp, with lots of humor.
I enjoyed it.
I enjoyed it.
November 20, 2017
A few things about this book right off the bat: first of all, it took me a long time to read. My attention just wasn't held the way I hoped it would have been. Especially because it felt rather like it was going to be a YA historical/almost-cozy mystery, which would have been right up my alley. Still overall regardless of exact genre, the plot moved very slowly.
Secondly, the magic in this book was not very exciting, widespread, nor well explained. Was it unique? Yes. You will never find Harry, Ron, and Hermione sewing glamours. However, that is the only magic in the book and its not shiny magic, its really not magic that Annis is really confident in or that she learns from some great wizard or a secret family recipe or anything like that...she hardly practices in any big, adventurous, fun way except for exhausting herself to save herself from bankruptcy. It was a bummer.
Third, the characters were unextraordinary to me mainly because I never trusted any of them. I never felt like we got a good enough glimpse into any of them because there was just too much going on with Annis and her cherades.
So those are my criticisms. All of that being said, I did enjoy other aspects of the books. I did like the setting of the book and the genre in general. There are not many YA historical mysteries out there. I would LOVE to read more books like this! Especially with young women at the center. The Jackaby books are good as well! I also thought the ending and the resolution in general saved the book in general. I wish the pacing would have been better throughout the book, but I have to say that I thought the ending was well done and I hope there is another book because I would pick it up.
Secondly, the magic in this book was not very exciting, widespread, nor well explained. Was it unique? Yes. You will never find Harry, Ron, and Hermione sewing glamours. However, that is the only magic in the book and its not shiny magic, its really not magic that Annis is really confident in or that she learns from some great wizard or a secret family recipe or anything like that...she hardly practices in any big, adventurous, fun way except for exhausting herself to save herself from bankruptcy. It was a bummer.
Third, the characters were unextraordinary to me mainly because I never trusted any of them. I never felt like we got a good enough glimpse into any of them because there was just too much going on with Annis and her cherades.
So those are my criticisms. All of that being said, I did enjoy other aspects of the books. I did like the setting of the book and the genre in general. There are not many YA historical mysteries out there. I would LOVE to read more books like this! Especially with young women at the center. The Jackaby books are good as well! I also thought the ending and the resolution in general saved the book in general. I wish the pacing would have been better throughout the book, but I have to say that I thought the ending was well done and I hope there is another book because I would pick it up.
January 27, 2019
This book was a delight! I loved the setting, the characters, and their storylines so much and I highly recommend it as a "cheer-up book" for anyone who is in need of some magic to lift their spirits, especially if you're a fan of historical fiction. I'd love either a sequel to see what happens next, and/or a related novel about Countess Lieven and her backstory.
September 22, 2017
Murder, Magic, and What We Wore by Kelly Jones is an adorably enchanting YA historical-fantasy-mystery all rolled into one. Reading it feels like the beginning of a series, so while I haven't seen any mention of it being a series.... I'm really hoping for it.
I was actually on the fence with this book. Annis was a character that I really just wasn't feeling and I quickly got annoyed with her. Fortunately, most of the other women in this book are fierce, intelligent and independent. Eventually, Annis experiences some growth of character and I liked her more by the end of the book. I think this book would have been bumped up a star if it had been a dual POV with Millie (I LOVED HER!)
A little treat within the book is the insertion of characters from other novels set in the era. I haven't read most of the books, so I didn't recognize any character except Jacky Faber, but just seeing her brief inclusion made my heart sing. I imagine fans of the other books mentioned had the same feeling when their characters made an appearance. Kelly Jones listed the books + characters at the end of the novel, and it made me want to go pick up a few of them.
I received an advance reader copy of this book that I have chosen to review.
I was actually on the fence with this book. Annis was a character that I really just wasn't feeling and I quickly got annoyed with her. Fortunately, most of the other women in this book are fierce, intelligent and independent. Eventually, Annis experiences some growth of character and I liked her more by the end of the book. I think this book would have been bumped up a star if it had been a dual POV with Millie (I LOVED HER!)
A little treat within the book is the insertion of characters from other novels set in the era. I haven't read most of the books, so I didn't recognize any character except Jacky Faber, but just seeing her brief inclusion made my heart sing. I imagine fans of the other books mentioned had the same feeling when their characters made an appearance. Kelly Jones listed the books + characters at the end of the novel, and it made me want to go pick up a few of them.
I received an advance reader copy of this book that I have chosen to review.
August 22, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
This was so cute and fun! I honestly could not put it down. The mystery was interesting, but the one clue they had completely gave it away. The characters were wonderful, but at times it felt like Annis was overshadowed by the other characters. I absolutely adored the setting, and I loved the addition of magic.
This was so cute and fun! I honestly could not put it down. The mystery was interesting, but the one clue they had completely gave it away. The characters were wonderful, but at times it felt like Annis was overshadowed by the other characters. I absolutely adored the setting, and I loved the addition of magic.
January 1, 2018
First sentence: We were at home when my father's solicitor arrived.
Premise/plot: Murder, Magic, and What We Wore is a delightful historical mystery set in Regency England. The heroine, Annis Whitworth, is being raised by her aunt Cassia. Soon after the novel opens, the two learn that her father is dead; he's died leaving them destitute. But something about her father's death troubles Annis. She believes her father was a spy, and that her father was murdered because of what he knew. Ever-practical Cassia is doing damage-control, how can two women support themselves and avoid debtor's prison? Annis is more daring; her idea of damage-control is broader. How can I solve my father's murder and enter into my nation's service as a spy?
Annis' greatest asset may be her newly discovered magical talent. Using her newfound glamour, she opens a dress shop in a country village--all with the good help of a new Irish maid, Millie. But can her dressmaking alone save the two women?! How can she prove her worth to the war office?
My thoughts: I love historical fiction. I do. The setting of this one is one of my favorites. Reading this one made me want to reread some Georgette Heyer. I enjoyed the relationship between Annis and her maid, Millie. These are two feisty young women--brave, resilient, determined. These two lean on one another and are stronger for it. Cassia was more of a mystery to me. It was harder for me to connect with who she was and her character/personality. Yet there was a potential for greatness hidden there. The novel has whimsical, magical elements. But it is also packed with mystery, danger, and action. Overall, I thought the world-building was good. It's also a relevant read. A few of the characters in this one could join the #metoo movement.
Premise/plot: Murder, Magic, and What We Wore is a delightful historical mystery set in Regency England. The heroine, Annis Whitworth, is being raised by her aunt Cassia. Soon after the novel opens, the two learn that her father is dead; he's died leaving them destitute. But something about her father's death troubles Annis. She believes her father was a spy, and that her father was murdered because of what he knew. Ever-practical Cassia is doing damage-control, how can two women support themselves and avoid debtor's prison? Annis is more daring; her idea of damage-control is broader. How can I solve my father's murder and enter into my nation's service as a spy?
Annis' greatest asset may be her newly discovered magical talent. Using her newfound glamour, she opens a dress shop in a country village--all with the good help of a new Irish maid, Millie. But can her dressmaking alone save the two women?! How can she prove her worth to the war office?
My thoughts: I love historical fiction. I do. The setting of this one is one of my favorites. Reading this one made me want to reread some Georgette Heyer. I enjoyed the relationship between Annis and her maid, Millie. These are two feisty young women--brave, resilient, determined. These two lean on one another and are stronger for it. Cassia was more of a mystery to me. It was harder for me to connect with who she was and her character/personality. Yet there was a potential for greatness hidden there. The novel has whimsical, magical elements. But it is also packed with mystery, danger, and action. Overall, I thought the world-building was good. It's also a relevant read. A few of the characters in this one could join the #metoo movement.
August 22, 2018
3.5 stars. This is fun, and frothy and eminently readable. It does have an unfortunate case of worst!possible!thing!has!happened! . I enjoyed it while I was reading it, not sure how long I'll remember it.
August 10, 2018
2.5
I was expecting a whole lot more from this, but Annis was just so horrifically BAD at being a spy that it became quite irritating to read after a while.
I was expecting a whole lot more from this, but Annis was just so horrifically BAD at being a spy that it became quite irritating to read after a while.
October 14, 2017
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
Being very familiar with (and loving) fantasy books set in England's Regency period, I absolutely had to read MURDER, MAGIC, AND WHAT WE WORE. And overall, I was not disappointed! While it had its flaws, this book is a fun example of this genre, and is a cute, quick read.
I was amused by Annis' antics - she is both observant and somewhat dense at times. Her maid, Millie, was an even more interesting character, and I liked her partnership with Annis. Millie was quick and picked up on things when Annis did not, but Annis was the one with the schemes. They had a nice interplay.
Though the book is titled MURDER, MAGIC, AND WHAT WE WORE, I was never really frightened for the main characters. Though they got in some tough situations at times, there was always a reasonable escape and the most concern I felt was during when Annis got caught alone in a room with a young gentleman who had a habit of man-handling maids. There never felt like there was real danger from the other spies, though there was an element of "who can Annis trust" underscoring all of her conversations.
My biggest complaint would be the poor world-building. All of a sudden, it was discovered that Annis could sew glamours, but they were never really explained, and the role of magic in the world was never really explained either. This could easily have been more of an aspect of the book.
Overall, while MURDER, MAGIC, AND WHAT WE WORE was not perfect, it definitely had aspects I like - magic, interesting characters, and enough of a mystery to keep me entertained. Plus, while I am not sure if this is the first in a series or a stand-alone, for the most part, the mystery gets tied up at the end of the book, so there are no cliff-hangers and the ending is satisfying.
Sexual content: References to unwanted contact/possible rape (one character is implied to have assaulted several women)
Being very familiar with (and loving) fantasy books set in England's Regency period, I absolutely had to read MURDER, MAGIC, AND WHAT WE WORE. And overall, I was not disappointed! While it had its flaws, this book is a fun example of this genre, and is a cute, quick read.
I was amused by Annis' antics - she is both observant and somewhat dense at times. Her maid, Millie, was an even more interesting character, and I liked her partnership with Annis. Millie was quick and picked up on things when Annis did not, but Annis was the one with the schemes. They had a nice interplay.
Though the book is titled MURDER, MAGIC, AND WHAT WE WORE, I was never really frightened for the main characters. Though they got in some tough situations at times, there was always a reasonable escape and the most concern I felt was during when Annis got caught alone in a room with a young gentleman who had a habit of man-handling maids. There never felt like there was real danger from the other spies, though there was an element of "who can Annis trust" underscoring all of her conversations.
My biggest complaint would be the poor world-building. All of a sudden, it was discovered that Annis could sew glamours, but they were never really explained, and the role of magic in the world was never really explained either. This could easily have been more of an aspect of the book.
Overall, while MURDER, MAGIC, AND WHAT WE WORE was not perfect, it definitely had aspects I like - magic, interesting characters, and enough of a mystery to keep me entertained. Plus, while I am not sure if this is the first in a series or a stand-alone, for the most part, the mystery gets tied up at the end of the book, so there are no cliff-hangers and the ending is satisfying.
Sexual content: References to unwanted contact/possible rape (one character is implied to have assaulted several women)
May 6, 2025
Although this book is marketed for the young adult or teen audience, it never crossed my mind that the protagonist is only sixteen years old. I suppose in Regency England, being sixteen years old is practically an adult but it never occurred to me until I finished this book who its target audience is.
Don’t let that stop you from reading this utterly charming tale of a young woman who finds out that not only her father was murdered but he was also a spy. She also discovers that her father was very close to exposing a plot so heinous and foul that those who are actively working to bring Napolean Bonaparte back from exile have no issue getting rid of anyone who gets in their way, even a young girl. To make matters worse, Annis and her aunt learn they are destitute as her father’s money has also disappeared. To solve their financial dilemma, Annis decides she will become a spy too, only the War Office doesn’t take her seriously even though she has the rare talent of sewing glamours into garments, which can be useful for a spy, as it will disguise them completely.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and, like Annis, was quite surprised at the turn of events in this story. Keeping up with who could be trusted, whether they be a spy or a typical cad, could turn into a full time job and some much needed lessons in knife wielding and throwing comes at an opportune time. I admired Annis and her aunt, Cassia, for their ability to think quickly on their feet to try to solve their financial crisis while trying to keep their situation on the down low.
The big villain reveal wasn’t as much of a surprise as other events in the story and that is why I hope this author will write more as this story ends with many loose threads and hints of further adventures awaiting Annis, her aunt and their housemaid, Millie.
My Final Verdict: Overall, this story was very enjoyable and I highly recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries, historical settings and madcap adventures.
Thank you to the publisher, Random House Children’s, who provided an advance reader copy of this book via NetGalley.
Don’t let that stop you from reading this utterly charming tale of a young woman who finds out that not only her father was murdered but he was also a spy. She also discovers that her father was very close to exposing a plot so heinous and foul that those who are actively working to bring Napolean Bonaparte back from exile have no issue getting rid of anyone who gets in their way, even a young girl. To make matters worse, Annis and her aunt learn they are destitute as her father’s money has also disappeared. To solve their financial dilemma, Annis decides she will become a spy too, only the War Office doesn’t take her seriously even though she has the rare talent of sewing glamours into garments, which can be useful for a spy, as it will disguise them completely.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and, like Annis, was quite surprised at the turn of events in this story. Keeping up with who could be trusted, whether they be a spy or a typical cad, could turn into a full time job and some much needed lessons in knife wielding and throwing comes at an opportune time. I admired Annis and her aunt, Cassia, for their ability to think quickly on their feet to try to solve their financial crisis while trying to keep their situation on the down low.
The big villain reveal wasn’t as much of a surprise as other events in the story and that is why I hope this author will write more as this story ends with many loose threads and hints of further adventures awaiting Annis, her aunt and their housemaid, Millie.
My Final Verdict: Overall, this story was very enjoyable and I highly recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries, historical settings and madcap adventures.
Thank you to the publisher, Random House Children’s, who provided an advance reader copy of this book via NetGalley.
August 21, 2017
(I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a review. Thanks, NetGalley folks!)
GUYS, I really, really wanted to love this book.
Fashion! Regency! Spies! Magic! All the things combined that should make this my absolute cup of tea. But... it didn't... it didn't end up panning out, for me.
Things I liked:
- The world. The forms of magic and the ways they used it was all very interesting!
- The friendship between our two leading ladies. This was definitely the strongest part of the book! Actually, the friendship between women throughout was really great, and I appreciated it.
- I actually kind of felt like her friend should have been the protagonist... That would have been even more interesting!
Things that didn't appeal:
- Despite being made to believe that our protagonist is really quite clever... she just... isn't, really. Several times in the narrative when she was making a case to be made an official spy, I definitely completely agreed with the people who turned her down. Even in the end, I could hardly believe that she had proved herself clever enough to get the job.
- The twist. Pro: I didn't see it coming! Con: I didn't see it coming. And had no idea after reading it what I had been reading before. I love a case of mistaken identity (LOVE IT), but this was a bit clumsily done and left me with many, many more questions than answers.
- The cast? I sort of went through phases of liking one main character at a time... only to lose interest. There seemed to be a lack of depth all around. Though maybe I just... wasn't in the right mood.
There were other nitpicky things that stood out here and there, but ultimately aren't too important. A lot of things about this book said "debut" to me, so I'm hoping that things will improve with future installments. I think Kelly Jones is a very promising author, though, and will be keeping an eye out for her next book.
GUYS, I really, really wanted to love this book.
Fashion! Regency! Spies! Magic! All the things combined that should make this my absolute cup of tea. But... it didn't... it didn't end up panning out, for me.
Things I liked:
- The world. The forms of magic and the ways they used it was all very interesting!
- The friendship between our two leading ladies. This was definitely the strongest part of the book! Actually, the friendship between women throughout was really great, and I appreciated it.
- I actually kind of felt like her friend should have been the protagonist... That would have been even more interesting!
Things that didn't appeal:
- Despite being made to believe that our protagonist is really quite clever... she just... isn't, really. Several times in the narrative when she was making a case to be made an official spy, I definitely completely agreed with the people who turned her down. Even in the end, I could hardly believe that she had proved herself clever enough to get the job.
- The twist. Pro: I didn't see it coming! Con: I didn't see it coming. And had no idea after reading it what I had been reading before. I love a case of mistaken identity (LOVE IT), but this was a bit clumsily done and left me with many, many more questions than answers.
- The cast? I sort of went through phases of liking one main character at a time... only to lose interest. There seemed to be a lack of depth all around. Though maybe I just... wasn't in the right mood.
There were other nitpicky things that stood out here and there, but ultimately aren't too important. A lot of things about this book said "debut" to me, so I'm hoping that things will improve with future installments. I think Kelly Jones is a very promising author, though, and will be keeping an eye out for her next book.
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September 9, 2017DNF @ 20%
One of my favorite series that I've ever read is the These Vicious Masks series by Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas. The created a brilliant regency comedy full of heart, magic, romance, and the best thing ever: poking fun at Victorian times and the classic regency cliches. That's exactly what I expected when I picked up this book. However, what I got was something a bit weirder a bit more boring than I was expecting.
I have to give so much kudos to the author for creating such an unique premise. It really was so very unique and intriguing. The premise was truly unique not only just in the regency genre but also in the YA genre. It was something fresh, and I have to give the author a lot of credit.
However, the execution for me, fell flat. At times, it seemed like the story was focusing so much on getting a laugh that it just didn't work. In the very first chapter, our main character loses her father. However, she not so much as grieves and she's commenting on the poor fashion choices of mourners and trying to force people to make her a spy. I'm all for poking fun and comedy, but it just didn't make in the situation - and certainly not a few hours after the death of her father.
It was also just boring for me. I couldn't connect with the characters or the storyline, and I just sat there, flipping pages and...just being really bored and disconnected. I can't even remember much of anything from the story.
There really wasn't anything truly wrong with this story, but I just couldn't get into it nor did it intrigue me enough to want to move on with the story. I also couldn't get passed some of what it seemed like forced comedic moments. Just eh overall. No crowns since I DNF'd and a Snow White rating!
One of my favorite series that I've ever read is the These Vicious Masks series by Tarun Shanker and Kelly Zekas. The created a brilliant regency comedy full of heart, magic, romance, and the best thing ever: poking fun at Victorian times and the classic regency cliches. That's exactly what I expected when I picked up this book. However, what I got was something a bit weirder a bit more boring than I was expecting.
I have to give so much kudos to the author for creating such an unique premise. It really was so very unique and intriguing. The premise was truly unique not only just in the regency genre but also in the YA genre. It was something fresh, and I have to give the author a lot of credit.
However, the execution for me, fell flat. At times, it seemed like the story was focusing so much on getting a laugh that it just didn't work. In the very first chapter, our main character loses her father. However, she not so much as grieves and she's commenting on the poor fashion choices of mourners and trying to force people to make her a spy. I'm all for poking fun and comedy, but it just didn't make in the situation - and certainly not a few hours after the death of her father.
It was also just boring for me. I couldn't connect with the characters or the storyline, and I just sat there, flipping pages and...just being really bored and disconnected. I can't even remember much of anything from the story.
There really wasn't anything truly wrong with this story, but I just couldn't get into it nor did it intrigue me enough to want to move on with the story. I also couldn't get passed some of what it seemed like forced comedic moments. Just eh overall. No crowns since I DNF'd and a Snow White rating!
July 2, 2020
This book was absolutely delightful and I adored every moment I spent reading it!!!
The author does a perfect job of marrying Regency life, magic, spies, and strong female characters into a cleverly-written, exciting and charming world.
Annis is wonderful, if a bit muddling when it comes to her attempts to become a spy, but then, that's part of the charm of this story. I loved her determination, spunk and kindness to those around her as she tries to find her way in the new world she's discovering.
Millie is the unheralded star of this story and I adored her as well. She has some of the most fun scenes in the entire book, and she is simply fabulous!
Cassia, well, Cassia is kind of a dark horse in this story, but she eventually has her moment as well.
I genuinely love how the author makes all her female characters - even the supporting ones - strong, smart, capable and independent!! That is a feature that always makes me love a book, and this book is chock-a-block with strong, entertaining female characters!!
I truly loved everything about this book, and hope - fingers crossed! - the author may plan to make this a series, because I would absolutely read future installments of the adventures of Annis, Millie and Cassia!
The author does a perfect job of marrying Regency life, magic, spies, and strong female characters into a cleverly-written, exciting and charming world.
Annis is wonderful, if a bit muddling when it comes to her attempts to become a spy, but then, that's part of the charm of this story. I loved her determination, spunk and kindness to those around her as she tries to find her way in the new world she's discovering.
Millie is the unheralded star of this story and I adored her as well. She has some of the most fun scenes in the entire book, and she is simply fabulous!
Cassia, well, Cassia is kind of a dark horse in this story, but she eventually has her moment as well.
I genuinely love how the author makes all her female characters - even the supporting ones - strong, smart, capable and independent!! That is a feature that always makes me love a book, and this book is chock-a-block with strong, entertaining female characters!!
I truly loved everything about this book, and hope - fingers crossed! - the author may plan to make this a series, because I would absolutely read future installments of the adventures of Annis, Millie and Cassia!
October 8, 2017
Appropriately named title for this clever mystery. Annis Whitworth can sew like nobody's business, and she discovers she has a talent for creating whatever she wants out of rags. She is immediately likable and has a penchant for getting into trouble. Annis and her friend Mille along with Aunt Cassia, set out on finding the truth about what happened to Annis' dad and uncover more than they bargained for. These are memorable characters I can't wait to revisit. This is fun amateur sleuthing with a magical twist.
September 7, 2017
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pro: I find this time period quite delightful and the setting. It was fun to see Annis transplanted from London to the countryside.
Con: I liked the mystery element, but there was a clue that sort of gave it all away. There were still a few other parts of the mystery that were unknown, and being able to figure out the first part did not detract from my enjoyment.
Pro: The friendship that developed between Annis and Millie was quite special. In fact, there were many strong female friendships in this book, and I loved all the girl-power moments brought to us throughout.
Con: There was this small hint of a romance, but then, nothing. It's not that a story needs romance, but I like it, and it was kind of a tease for me.
Pro: I thought the sewing of glamours was fabulous. Jones used this well in the story, and also included a few other neat magical elements, which showed that this world was a accustomed to this sort of thing.
Overall: A delightful and charming regency romp filled with spies, deception, and a little magic.
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Pro: I find this time period quite delightful and the setting. It was fun to see Annis transplanted from London to the countryside.
Con: I liked the mystery element, but there was a clue that sort of gave it all away. There were still a few other parts of the mystery that were unknown, and being able to figure out the first part did not detract from my enjoyment.
Pro: The friendship that developed between Annis and Millie was quite special. In fact, there were many strong female friendships in this book, and I loved all the girl-power moments brought to us throughout.
Con: There was this small hint of a romance, but then, nothing. It's not that a story needs romance, but I like it, and it was kind of a tease for me.
Pro: I thought the sewing of glamours was fabulous. Jones used this well in the story, and also included a few other neat magical elements, which showed that this world was a accustomed to this sort of thing.
Overall: A delightful and charming regency romp filled with spies, deception, and a little magic.
BLOG|INSTAGRAM|BLOGLOVIN| FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
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