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House of Werth #1
Wyrde and Wayward
‘If you had not already realised it, this is a very strange house you are come to.’
The Scions of the House of Werth are all born normal. It is what happens afterwards that sets them apart.
It is not easy being the most supernatural family in England. Nell talks to the dead; Lord Werth is too often to be found out in the churchyard at the dead of night; and the less said about Lord Bedgberry, the better.
Only Miss Gussie Werth has missed out on the family curse. She sups on chocolate, not blood; she's blissfully oblivious to spectres (except for Great-Aunt Honoria, of course); and she hasn't the smallest inclination to turn into a beast upon the full moon, and go ravening about the countryside.
But there's more to the Wyrde than meets the eye. When a visit to a neighbouring family goes spectacularly, deliciously wrong, Gussie's ideas about her own nature undergo a swift and serious change.
Far from being the most ordinary of the bunch, she may just prove to be the most disastrous Werth of them all...
Refined Regency manners meet gothic comedy to delightfully absurd effect in Wyrde and Wayward, a fresh new series from the author of Modern Magick and the Malykant Mysteries.
The Scions of the House of Werth are all born normal. It is what happens afterwards that sets them apart.
It is not easy being the most supernatural family in England. Nell talks to the dead; Lord Werth is too often to be found out in the churchyard at the dead of night; and the less said about Lord Bedgberry, the better.
Only Miss Gussie Werth has missed out on the family curse. She sups on chocolate, not blood; she's blissfully oblivious to spectres (except for Great-Aunt Honoria, of course); and she hasn't the smallest inclination to turn into a beast upon the full moon, and go ravening about the countryside.
But there's more to the Wyrde than meets the eye. When a visit to a neighbouring family goes spectacularly, deliciously wrong, Gussie's ideas about her own nature undergo a swift and serious change.
Far from being the most ordinary of the bunch, she may just prove to be the most disastrous Werth of them all...
Refined Regency manners meet gothic comedy to delightfully absurd effect in Wyrde and Wayward, a fresh new series from the author of Modern Magick and the Malykant Mysteries.
238 pages, Paperback
First published October 23, 2019
291 people are currently reading
812 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte E. English
77 books353 followersEnglish both by name and nationality, Charlotte hasn’t permitted emigration to the Netherlands to change her essential Britishness. She writes colourful fantasy novels over copious quantities of tea, and rarely misses an opportunity to apologise for something. Spanning the spectrum from light to dark, her works include the Draykon Series, Modern Magick, The Malykant Mysteries and the Tales of Aylfenhame.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
September 16, 2023
Wyrde and Wayward was such a strange and utterly delightful book! Honestly, I'm not certain that I've ever read another Regency fantasy like it. Take the movie Encanto and give it a generous dash of The Addams Family, and I think you might end up with something like this novel.
The book primarily follows Miss Gussie Werth, a spinster from the notoriously bizarre House of Werth. Gussie's family is known for birthing people with strange powers—but of course, Gussie herself has never shown any magical inclinations. As Gussie becomes involved in a darkly comedic series of events, however, her belief that she is perfectly normal begins to unravel.
Admittedly, it took me a chapter or two before I adapted to Wyrde and Wayward's writing style—it can be very period, and it tends to ramble at times—but once I did get the hang of it, I found it very charming. Mainly, I delighted in the dark, dry humour of the story, which made even relatively mundane conversations just a joy to read. There's always someone doing something bizarre in the background with utterly straight-faced normalcy, and as the book went on, I often found myself laughing out loud at tiny turns of phrase. The main characters are a bit more (charmingly?) callous than is usual, but this is part of what likens them to the Addams Family—when one regularly digs up the family's great-great-granduncle for conversation, it's difficult to take a bit of casual bloodletting too seriously.
And of course, the book had a (depressed but dignified) dragon. I truly can't help it—I'm always won over by dragons.
The novel does end on a note which is clearly meant to lead into book two; that fact didn't trouble me overmuch, but if you're going into the story with an expectation that it will all come full circle by the end, then you might be surprised by the suggestion of a new plot development instead. Personally, I'm very much looking forward to seeing how this dark, motley family continues to develop in successive books.
The book primarily follows Miss Gussie Werth, a spinster from the notoriously bizarre House of Werth. Gussie's family is known for birthing people with strange powers—but of course, Gussie herself has never shown any magical inclinations. As Gussie becomes involved in a darkly comedic series of events, however, her belief that she is perfectly normal begins to unravel.
Admittedly, it took me a chapter or two before I adapted to Wyrde and Wayward's writing style—it can be very period, and it tends to ramble at times—but once I did get the hang of it, I found it very charming. Mainly, I delighted in the dark, dry humour of the story, which made even relatively mundane conversations just a joy to read. There's always someone doing something bizarre in the background with utterly straight-faced normalcy, and as the book went on, I often found myself laughing out loud at tiny turns of phrase. The main characters are a bit more (charmingly?) callous than is usual, but this is part of what likens them to the Addams Family—when one regularly digs up the family's great-great-granduncle for conversation, it's difficult to take a bit of casual bloodletting too seriously.
And of course, the book had a (depressed but dignified) dragon. I truly can't help it—I'm always won over by dragons.
The novel does end on a note which is clearly meant to lead into book two; that fact didn't trouble me overmuch, but if you're going into the story with an expectation that it will all come full circle by the end, then you might be surprised by the suggestion of a new plot development instead. Personally, I'm very much looking forward to seeing how this dark, motley family continues to develop in successive books.
December 9, 2021
Where and Wayward
by Charlotte English
This book sounded really cool but it was fun but I had it hyped up in my mind so I was a bit disappointed. That was my fault. It really was a cute story although with some flaws.
There were characters that turned into things, a character that enabled people to let their gift, or wyrde, out! There was also a book that was so vicious that people were afraid of it. So the story had some great ideas going for it.
What I didn't care for was the ending. It just stopped. No build up, it just stopped. Also there were several people who were in the story, who seemed important to the plot that just disappeared. What?
I wasn't feeling well while listening to this book so I may re-listen down the road. It may be better than this. I did enjoy it mostly.
The audio version has great narration.
by Charlotte English
This book sounded really cool but it was fun but I had it hyped up in my mind so I was a bit disappointed. That was my fault. It really was a cute story although with some flaws.
There were characters that turned into things, a character that enabled people to let their gift, or wyrde, out! There was also a book that was so vicious that people were afraid of it. So the story had some great ideas going for it.
What I didn't care for was the ending. It just stopped. No build up, it just stopped. Also there were several people who were in the story, who seemed important to the plot that just disappeared. What?
I wasn't feeling well while listening to this book so I may re-listen down the road. It may be better than this. I did enjoy it mostly.
The audio version has great narration.
March 19, 2024
A bit Adams Family in Regency times. Some understated comic relief.
Paranormal Regency is ok but to my mind Hannah Howell is the queen of this genre with her Wherlocke series. Still unusual and fun. Gussie Worth is a delightful no nonsense young woman who’s been around the Werth family and it’s rum family members since she was a young girl. She takes no nonsense, has no special talents or wyrdes until she discovers she has!
Did a second reading 18/3/24. Opinion remains the same
Paranormal Regency is ok but to my mind Hannah Howell is the queen of this genre with her Wherlocke series. Still unusual and fun. Gussie Worth is a delightful no nonsense young woman who’s been around the Werth family and it’s rum family members since she was a young girl. She takes no nonsense, has no special talents or wyrdes until she discovers she has!
Did a second reading 18/3/24. Opinion remains the same
April 26, 2020
It felt like the author aimed for charming and mysterious and instead landed on unbelievable and incredibly fake. Maybe they were under the impression if everyone smiled constantly I would have no choice but to find them charming? Mostly I just felt the increasing need to beat every single one of them to death with a iron poker.
April 22, 2021
'Scions of the House of Werth are all born normal. It is what happens afterwards that sets them apart.
It is not easy being the most supernatural family in England. Nell talks to the dead; Lord Werth is too often to be found out in the churchyard at the dead of night; and the less said about Lord Bedgberry, the better.
Only Miss Gussie Werth has missed out on the family curse. She sups on chocolate, not blood; she's blissfully oblivious to spectres (except for Great-Aunt Honoria, of course); and she hasn't the smallest inclination to turn into a beast upon the full moon, and go ravening about the countryside.
But there's more to the Wyrde than meets the eye. When a visit to a neighbouring family goes spectacularly, deliciously wrong, Gussie's ideas about her own nature undergo a swift and serious change.
Far from being the most ordinary of the bunch, she may just prove to be the most disastrous Werth of them all...'
______________________________
Wyrde and Wayward is the first book in Charlotte E. English's House of Werth series and is a paranormal historical fantasy which follows the Werths, a prevalent wyrded(magical) family in which individuals learn of their abilities on their third birthday.
I'm on the fence about this book. This is one of my favorite genres and it is well written with lovely and amusing characters. Gussie is sarcastic, stubborn, and not one to shy aware from adventure. I'm going to try not to give anything away, but the issue that I had with the book is that a big chunk of the first half of the book was dedicated to setting up a specific conflict for the book then seemed to change focus and veer off into another direction. Which was disappointing because I found it to be the most amusing part of the book. The issue is not really revisited in any way before the book ends, which made it feel like a lot of wasted effort that could have been introduced without quite so many chapters. Certain characters were willing to go to such lengths to carry out a plot, but when they are twarted they just let it go? That's what I have to assume since that plotline seemed to have just been forgotten.
Overall though the story was amusing and wonderfully weird and I'll probably continue to read the next in the series, Wyrde and Wicked and hope that it benefits from better focus.
It is not easy being the most supernatural family in England. Nell talks to the dead; Lord Werth is too often to be found out in the churchyard at the dead of night; and the less said about Lord Bedgberry, the better.
Only Miss Gussie Werth has missed out on the family curse. She sups on chocolate, not blood; she's blissfully oblivious to spectres (except for Great-Aunt Honoria, of course); and she hasn't the smallest inclination to turn into a beast upon the full moon, and go ravening about the countryside.
But there's more to the Wyrde than meets the eye. When a visit to a neighbouring family goes spectacularly, deliciously wrong, Gussie's ideas about her own nature undergo a swift and serious change.
Far from being the most ordinary of the bunch, she may just prove to be the most disastrous Werth of them all...'
______________________________
Wyrde and Wayward is the first book in Charlotte E. English's House of Werth series and is a paranormal historical fantasy which follows the Werths, a prevalent wyrded(magical) family in which individuals learn of their abilities on their third birthday.
I'm on the fence about this book. This is one of my favorite genres and it is well written with lovely and amusing characters. Gussie is sarcastic, stubborn, and not one to shy aware from adventure. I'm going to try not to give anything away, but the issue that I had with the book is that a big chunk of the first half of the book was dedicated to setting up a specific conflict for the book then seemed to change focus and veer off into another direction. Which was disappointing because I found it to be the most amusing part of the book. The issue is not really revisited in any way before the book ends, which made it feel like a lot of wasted effort that could have been introduced without quite so many chapters. Certain characters were willing to go to such lengths to carry out a plot, but when they are twarted they just let it go? That's what I have to assume since that plotline seemed to have just been forgotten.
Overall though the story was amusing and wonderfully weird and I'll probably continue to read the next in the series, Wyrde and Wicked and hope that it benefits from better focus.
October 30, 2019
Clever and Entertaining
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though it did not try to kill me at any point. As well written and funny as it is, it is only a book, not a Book. What do I mean by that? Read and find out!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though it did not try to kill me at any point. As well written and funny as it is, it is only a book, not a Book. What do I mean by that? Read and find out!
August 18, 2020
This world is like Lymony Snicketts, Tim Burton and Mary Poppins had a threesome and then had a regency book baby. Gussie Worth's Wyrde world is the result. It was a fun read with unexpected "wyrde" twist and turns and things going bump in the night or day. The Worth Book of Wyrde almost ran away with the book...err story. badambump. Pun intended. This was a palate cleanser and well worth my time. If you are looking for a suitable read for a young person this book is perfect for a young preteen or teenager. :-)
February 11, 2021
This one fell into the "disappointing" category. I was really looking forward to a regency-era Addams Family. But the Werths sadly didn't have any of the charm or warmth of that monster family and I disliked almost all the characters.
Also Gussie is an awful name for a heroine. Sorry to any Gussies out there.
Good ideas, but missed the spot. Is it worth getting the next one to see if it improves? Hm.
Maybe.
For when I can't be bothered to write a proper review, (because the rating is either self-explanatory or I just don't feel strongly enough about it) this is how I view the ratings...
My star ratings
(Please note that all ratings are entirely subjective to my mood at the time and in comparison to whatever else I've been reading and are often given more to remind me about the book, so please don't get upset or take them as recommendations!)
1 star - Not for me. Probably a DNF.
Either I'm simply not interested in this book (whether due to the story, characters, subject or writing style), or I absolutely hated something about it. Either way, this rating is just reminding myself not to pick it up/buy it again in the future.
2 stars - It was okay.
Either i) it wasn't bad but I probably wouldn't continue/re-read ; ii) some aspects were good but were outweighed by the parts I disliked; iii) it wasn't quite as good as others in the series/similar books in the genre so suffered in comparison (probably contained a part of the story I disliked, or is too similar to previous books); iv) it disappointed after reading previous books/the blurb; or v) I liked it but it had significant issues that I can't ignore. But I would continue in the hopes the series improves.
3 stars - it was good
Either i) I quite enjoyed the book, will continue if it's a series and will probably look for similar books or others by this author; ii) it was a good book but just doesn't suit my current mood/taste or iii) it's one I liked but don't want to admit to ;) (probably something I read when I was younger, or that I really enjoyed despite having issues. And yes, that includes some objectively awful books. Don't judge).
4 stars - really liked this
If I liked the story or characters enough I can overlook many issues! Extra points for novelty factor, new twists on old themes, good imagination or emotional response. Will definitely look for anything else by this author.
5 stars - loved it
Probably stayed up all night cos I needed to know: what happens next?! Will forgive any and all flaws, wait impatiently for sequels and search for everything this author has written or recommended and anything remotely similar!
I actually tend to take more note of 1-3 star reviews, because those are the ones that tell me if the objections to the book are ones that would bother me. So thank you to the reviewers that give honest comments! And sorry to the authors if I don't seem to appreciate all your hard work. I really do.
Also Gussie is an awful name for a heroine. Sorry to any Gussies out there.
Good ideas, but missed the spot. Is it worth getting the next one to see if it improves? Hm.
Maybe.
For when I can't be bothered to write a proper review, (because the rating is either self-explanatory or I just don't feel strongly enough about it) this is how I view the ratings...
My star ratings
(Please note that all ratings are entirely subjective to my mood at the time and in comparison to whatever else I've been reading and are often given more to remind me about the book, so please don't get upset or take them as recommendations!)
1 star - Not for me. Probably a DNF.
Either I'm simply not interested in this book (whether due to the story, characters, subject or writing style), or I absolutely hated something about it. Either way, this rating is just reminding myself not to pick it up/buy it again in the future.
2 stars - It was okay.
Either i) it wasn't bad but I probably wouldn't continue/re-read ; ii) some aspects were good but were outweighed by the parts I disliked; iii) it wasn't quite as good as others in the series/similar books in the genre so suffered in comparison (probably contained a part of the story I disliked, or is too similar to previous books); iv) it disappointed after reading previous books/the blurb; or v) I liked it but it had significant issues that I can't ignore. But I would continue in the hopes the series improves.
3 stars - it was good
Either i) I quite enjoyed the book, will continue if it's a series and will probably look for similar books or others by this author; ii) it was a good book but just doesn't suit my current mood/taste or iii) it's one I liked but don't want to admit to ;) (probably something I read when I was younger, or that I really enjoyed despite having issues. And yes, that includes some objectively awful books. Don't judge).
4 stars - really liked this
If I liked the story or characters enough I can overlook many issues! Extra points for novelty factor, new twists on old themes, good imagination or emotional response. Will definitely look for anything else by this author.
5 stars - loved it
Probably stayed up all night cos I needed to know: what happens next?! Will forgive any and all flaws, wait impatiently for sequels and search for everything this author has written or recommended and anything remotely similar!
I actually tend to take more note of 1-3 star reviews, because those are the ones that tell me if the objections to the book are ones that would bother me. So thank you to the reviewers that give honest comments! And sorry to the authors if I don't seem to appreciate all your hard work. I really do.
October 24, 2019
I read anything that Charlotte English writes and haven't been disappointed yet. This one is such a weird, different story. As it opens, Augusta 'Gussie' Werth is at the main Werth manor with the rest of the family, waiting for little Lizzie's 'Great Event'. Lizzie's Wyrding should appear at the moment of the 3rd year anniversary of her birth. Instead of being feared, the odd and macabre gifts and changes that come over each member of the Werth family due to the Wyrding, are highly anticipated and prized. The Werth family are one of the most powerfully Wyrded families in England and are very proud of that fact. The one apparent exception has been Gussie. The Wyrde seems to have passed her over . . . or has it? This story has secrets, mystery, kidnapping, and people going to great lengths to gain an affinity with the Wyrde. Add in vicious books, disembodied heads, conniving dead relatives, a terrific supporting cast and you have the recipe for a spooky, unpredictable and very original story. I loved it.
March 9, 2020
Very interesting twist on a Regency UF.
I liked this a lot more than I’d hoped too. The characters are limited (yah!), but they are quirky, pigheaded, and very unique. The mystery surrounding Gussie was not what I was expecting, yet it gives the author a lot of room to manoeuvre her characters.
One small issue I did have was that after such an... interesting? revelation at the ball, the imposing Dowager and her creepy son and daughter just disappear from the narrative. Very odd considering how vociferous the old battle axe was.
Will definitely be picking up the next book soon.
3.5 stars ⭐️
Oh, and since his is a regency era story, there is no sexual content nor bad language. Just a lot of wyrde goodness 😉
I liked this a lot more than I’d hoped too. The characters are limited (yah!), but they are quirky, pigheaded, and very unique. The mystery surrounding Gussie was not what I was expecting, yet it gives the author a lot of room to manoeuvre her characters.
One small issue I did have was that after such an... interesting? revelation at the ball, the imposing Dowager and her creepy son and daughter just disappear from the narrative. Very odd considering how vociferous the old battle axe was.
Will definitely be picking up the next book soon.
3.5 stars ⭐️
Oh, and since his is a regency era story, there is no sexual content nor bad language. Just a lot of wyrde goodness 😉
October 29, 2019
Totally hilarious! Terry pratchett has been reincarnated
What a great read! Think "the Addams Family" transported to regency England. Witty charming funny and entertaining. Gussie is the only member of the family who is not weird and possessed of sometimes less than admirable qualities. However, there is more to her than meets the eye,both in terms of powers and powers of deduction. Clever and imaginative. A great story.
What a great read! Think "the Addams Family" transported to regency England. Witty charming funny and entertaining. Gussie is the only member of the family who is not weird and possessed of sometimes less than admirable qualities. However, there is more to her than meets the eye,both in terms of powers and powers of deduction. Clever and imaginative. A great story.
January 22, 2020
Cute, but no real plot. Sort of hops along different events but there's no real climax or much of an ending
September 19, 2020
What a fun book this was to read! I loved the Werth family and all its wyrded members. They reminded me somewhat of the Addams Family - weird (wyrde), quirky, supernatural, yet loveable! There is an aunt who can turn others (and herself, though not purposely) to ice, an uncle who raises the dead (literally), another aunt who trails thunderstorms in her wake, yet another who spends most of her time as a severed head (and who would have expected a severed, bloody-stumped head to be such engaging company!), a taciturn cousin who can only eat the wildlife he catches like a feral animal, and an ancient disgruntled, maniacal book. Yes a book - the Book of Werth, which must be kept imprisoned for the safety of all as it violently attacks anyone who tries to read it. Throw in a reluctant dragon and you've got quite a cast of characters.
Augusta "Gussie" Werth is a fabulous lead character. Watching her character develop as she discovers and learns to accept and eventually embrace her own wyrde is a delight. Gussie grows in self-confidence and unleashes her adventurous spirit once her unique wyrde is revealed to her. From that point on she's full steam ahead in assisting the aforementioned dragon to return to his human form. After that, she ready and eager for more adventures.
The story is set in an alternative Regency England, one which may not appreciate the wyrded, but accepts them as part of society. Characters such as those described above are unnerving to the unwyrded, but not unexpected.
This is the first in the House of Werth series. I look forward to reading more especially as the ending leaves the reader hanging, but with the promise of the storyline being picked up in the next book.
Augusta "Gussie" Werth is a fabulous lead character. Watching her character develop as she discovers and learns to accept and eventually embrace her own wyrde is a delight. Gussie grows in self-confidence and unleashes her adventurous spirit once her unique wyrde is revealed to her. From that point on she's full steam ahead in assisting the aforementioned dragon to return to his human form. After that, she ready and eager for more adventures.
The story is set in an alternative Regency England, one which may not appreciate the wyrded, but accepts them as part of society. Characters such as those described above are unnerving to the unwyrded, but not unexpected.
This is the first in the House of Werth series. I look forward to reading more especially as the ending leaves the reader hanging, but with the promise of the storyline being picked up in the next book.
May 31, 2022
For you when you look for : fun, entertainment, dry humour, we’ll-rounded story
Not when you look for: high literature, personal growth of characters, feats of imagination
“Words and Wayward” is Regency fantasy with a magical twist. While the world-building is good and the characters lovingly described, the five stars are really for the excellent employment of Regency tropes.
Our heroine is the “impoverished relative”, the “young spinster”, the “beautiful but too intelligent young woman”. Add to this the “loving and beloved childhood nurse”, the “bookworm son”, the “well-meaning, but focussed on his affairs lord of the house” and you have all the ingredients for an enjoyable read, which Ms English masterfully combined.
But what was the most fun, apart from the dry wit of our heroine, was the combination of Aristocratic entitlement with Addams family weirdness. Being turned to stone should not be done in polite society and makes it difficult to hire good help, but does not carry otherwise any moral component.
Finding books years after they are published means that the sequel is only a mouse-click away. :)
Not when you look for: high literature, personal growth of characters, feats of imagination
“Words and Wayward” is Regency fantasy with a magical twist. While the world-building is good and the characters lovingly described, the five stars are really for the excellent employment of Regency tropes.
Our heroine is the “impoverished relative”, the “young spinster”, the “beautiful but too intelligent young woman”. Add to this the “loving and beloved childhood nurse”, the “bookworm son”, the “well-meaning, but focussed on his affairs lord of the house” and you have all the ingredients for an enjoyable read, which Ms English masterfully combined.
But what was the most fun, apart from the dry wit of our heroine, was the combination of Aristocratic entitlement with Addams family weirdness. Being turned to stone should not be done in polite society and makes it difficult to hire good help, but does not carry otherwise any moral component.
Finding books years after they are published means that the sequel is only a mouse-click away. :)
October 20, 2021
This was a great book. Very well written and filled with fun characters. Gussie was snarky, sarcastic and adventurous. Her uncle Theo was another amazing character I enjoyed reading about. His disposition was similar to Gussie’s, though a bit more severe, which was humerus. Lord Maundevyle was quite interesting also and I look forward to learning more about him in the next book.
I wished the story was wrapped up a little better. The 1st half of the plot started off in one direction then drastically shifted focus, leaving a lot of unanswered questions. However, the story was interesting enough that I would continue to read this series.
Favorite Quote
“When one has been kidnapped, you know, it would be the heights of rudeness to expect one’s presence to interfere with the regular habits of the household.”
Content: Clean, No Language, Moderately Ghoulish, Mild Violence. There aren’t any hints at romance but dunno if that will change in the next book.
I wished the story was wrapped up a little better. The 1st half of the plot started off in one direction then drastically shifted focus, leaving a lot of unanswered questions. However, the story was interesting enough that I would continue to read this series.
Favorite Quote
“When one has been kidnapped, you know, it would be the heights of rudeness to expect one’s presence to interfere with the regular habits of the household.”
Content: Clean, No Language, Moderately Ghoulish, Mild Violence. There aren’t any hints at romance but dunno if that will change in the next book.
July 22, 2020
A delightful romp of a Regency romance with magic. The Werth family, though rich and aristocratic, are stricken by a Curse. Each receives some touch of the "Wyrde" on his or her third birthday transforming into any imaginable magical being, from mermaids to necromancers to dragons. Except our heroine Gussie, a formidable young lady of 26, well past the age of marriage, who doesn't seem to have any Wyrde at all. Or does she? There is also the small matter of a semi-homicidal Book that contains information on all of the Werths but attacks them all at the slightest provocation. I simply adored the author's lively sense of the absurd and excellent grasp of period slang and detail. I'll be onto the next right away, thank you!
June 9, 2023
2023 bk 200. From the description I expected a little more. It was an interesting premise - that some families had gifts that others didn't and in our heroine's family the gifts manifested themselves at age 3, but Gussie hadn't manifested anything. Kept cloistered at the family estate, she dreamed of travel and adventure. An invitation and then kidnapping revealed that she was just as wyrd as the rest of her family and that others might seek her out. The plot line became a little convoluted (Are we focusing on the other family - most of whom completely disappear from the story? Are we focusing on the book? The new regulations allowing the Runners to track them down?) after the ball and the storyline needed just one focus with a clear conclusion. Otherwise interesting premise.
January 22, 2024
This was fun and lighthearted. I mean, there’s a disembodied head floating around carrying on dignified conversations after scaring the wits out of hapless strangers, an uncle that digs up his great-great-great uncle to have chats with in a graveyard, and a possessed gargoyle that speaks mostly in phrases that carry no relevance to the events occurring round it. Towards the end I sort of lost the thread of what was happening since it seemed like earlier plot points were abandoned and new ones introduced but I’m not terribly upset about it. Overall, it was an enjoyable, humorous romp through regency England with all manner of weird things happening.
May 24, 2023
Pretty good start to a series. Characters are charming and fun, (if not a little strange).
I would receommend it if you are desirous of something light and fun along the lines of India Holton or Gail Carriger.
I would receommend it if you are desirous of something light and fun along the lines of India Holton or Gail Carriger.
April 8, 2021
Another great fantasy tale from the Wyrde and Onderfull Charlotte E. English this one is like the 'Adam's' family on steroids, great fun great read.
February 2, 2025
Nothing quite hits the spot like a fantasy book from Charlotte E. English. I love especially the dry humor and banter. HIghly recommend this one to folks who love Regency-era fantasy.
July 23, 2024
Olivia Atwater described this as Encanto (a family where each member save the heroine has a different magical ability) meets The Addams Family (those magical abilities tend to be… weird) meets Jane Austen (Regency England setting), and that about sums it up. I’d just add a dash of Veronica Speedwell to capture the willful heroine and outlandish adventures.
***
“Good judgement consists of accepting the truth about oneself, however much one might sometimes deplore it.”
“I am only female, sir, not blind. I am able to perceive the rampant approach of a murderous Book just as well as you.”
***
“Good judgement consists of accepting the truth about oneself, however much one might sometimes deplore it.”
“I am only female, sir, not blind. I am able to perceive the rampant approach of a murderous Book just as well as you.”
January 2, 2022
4.25 stars
The extra .25 star is for just how much this entertained me. It was a strange read, almost random at times, but it kept me hooked and surprised me with the plot taking unpredictable routes.
The extra .25 star is for just how much this entertained me. It was a strange read, almost random at times, but it kept me hooked and surprised me with the plot taking unpredictable routes.
January 22, 2020
I loved this. It is Jane Austen with added Wyrde.
Miss Gussie Werth is the only member of her rather upper crust family who has not inherited some sign of being cursed with the Wyrde. Nell talks to the dead; Lord Werth is too often to be found out in the churchyard at the dead of night; and the less said about Lord Bedgberry, the better.
But Gussie prefers chocolate to blood; is blissfully oblivious to spectres (except for Great-Aunt Honoria, of course); and she hasn't the smallest inclination to turn into a beast upon the full moon, and go ravening about the countryside.
Why then, is a family she knows little about desperate for her to visit? And why are her family seemingly determined to keep her at home?
When she is kidnapped to ensure the visit takes place, we find out the answer - and Gussie has to deal with the totally unexpected consequences.
I am desperate now for House of Werth Book 2 to appear!
Miss Gussie Werth is the only member of her rather upper crust family who has not inherited some sign of being cursed with the Wyrde. Nell talks to the dead; Lord Werth is too often to be found out in the churchyard at the dead of night; and the less said about Lord Bedgberry, the better.
But Gussie prefers chocolate to blood; is blissfully oblivious to spectres (except for Great-Aunt Honoria, of course); and she hasn't the smallest inclination to turn into a beast upon the full moon, and go ravening about the countryside.
Why then, is a family she knows little about desperate for her to visit? And why are her family seemingly determined to keep her at home?
When she is kidnapped to ensure the visit takes place, we find out the answer - and Gussie has to deal with the totally unexpected consequences.
I am desperate now for House of Werth Book 2 to appear!
November 9, 2019
This charming first book of a new series was just right for a spooky Autumn read. It was whimsical and dark in the same fashion as an Edward Gorey story. If the Addams Family were set in Regency England; if Wednesday Addams had grown up with a good deal more charm and was a bit of an outcast in her own family, you'd have a good sense of this story. In the family of the Werths, every person born to it (and apparently those they marry, as well) are gifted with a "Wyrde" upon their third birthday. The heroine is the only person in generations to be perfectly ordinary. This is story. I really enjoyed it and I look forward to more of these books, if they come.
November 9, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this funny supernatural regency! I loved the quirky cast of characters (my favorite is the lachrymose Lord Maundevyle), and Gussie Werth is an admirable heroine who handles whatever crazy situation she seems to find herself in. I can easily picture Tim Burton adapting this book! If you like eccentric stories, witty dialogue, adventure, dragons, and curses, then definitely give this one a try. I can’t wait for the sequel!
November 14, 2019
Entertaining and not terrible
I found the book entertaining, a fun story with an interesting bunch of characters. The language was a bit stilted and took a while to get into. Someone compared it with Terry pratchett but it is not in the same league of satire at all. Still a fun read and not a waste of money.
I found the book entertaining, a fun story with an interesting bunch of characters. The language was a bit stilted and took a while to get into. Someone compared it with Terry pratchett but it is not in the same league of satire at all. Still a fun read and not a waste of money.
March 16, 2023
3½ stars. Unusual Historical Paranormal Romp
Wyrde & Wayward is an unusual book. I can't really compare it to anything because it stands in its own category. I'm kind of on the fence about how I feel about it. While a lot of aspects felt like they had potential, I thought the pacing was off. It started out fast paced with a mystery to solve regarding Gussie's Wyrde powers (or lack thereof), as well as what the Selwyn siblings want from Gussie. Then during the middle I felt as though it was just plodding along with nothing of particular excitement happening. It picked up again for the last third then, but that meandering middle had me considering putting it down for awhile.
I liked the characters, for the most part, although unfortunately the main character, Gussie, was probably my least favorite. I had a hard time relating to her. I felt like the author tried too hard to make her witty & quirky, to the point that she comes off more annoying & callous. Luckily I found the rest of the characters of interest, particularly Theo; I actually think if enjoy the story a lot more if he was the main character instead.
For me, the best thing about this book was the Wyrde itself. The Wyrde is a mysterious power that certain people have within them that can be activated, that gives them powers such as the ability to talk to the dead, to shapeshift, etc. There are a variety of members of the Werth family presented in this book & all of them have unique & interesting Wyrde powers. I loved reading about the diffent ones & I would really enjoy some history of how the Wyrde started & just more information about it in general. That paranormal aspect was top notch. I loved the idea of the monstrous Books. That section was my favorite part of the story.
I guess I just found this book somewhat all over the place. It could have used some more coherency if plot. Also, I kept expecting some romance. Now, by no means do I think books always need romance, but in this case I think a romantic element would have let me connect more with Gussie. There are two male characters who would've made good love interests, & one female who seemed like she might be interested as well, so maybe the romance is something that will develop later in the series. Unfortunately, I am not sure I am going to continue with the series. I have so many books on my TBR & while I'll probably read book 2 at some point, it is not a huge priority for me. Just FYI, this book does not end on a cliffhanger.
Bottomline, I'm giving Wyrde & Wayward 3½ stars. It was entertaining & I think there is just a ton of potential & possibility for future installments. The pacing really through me off though. I think this book will appeal to people who like regency era urban fantasy or historical fiction with paranormal aspects. It is imaginative & I liked that the language used fit the time period. It is also relatively funny. I laughed out loud a few times while reading. I will probably pick up the next book sometime in the future.
Wyrde & Wayward is an unusual book. I can't really compare it to anything because it stands in its own category. I'm kind of on the fence about how I feel about it. While a lot of aspects felt like they had potential, I thought the pacing was off. It started out fast paced with a mystery to solve regarding Gussie's Wyrde powers (or lack thereof), as well as what the Selwyn siblings want from Gussie. Then during the middle I felt as though it was just plodding along with nothing of particular excitement happening. It picked up again for the last third then, but that meandering middle had me considering putting it down for awhile.
I liked the characters, for the most part, although unfortunately the main character, Gussie, was probably my least favorite. I had a hard time relating to her. I felt like the author tried too hard to make her witty & quirky, to the point that she comes off more annoying & callous. Luckily I found the rest of the characters of interest, particularly Theo; I actually think if enjoy the story a lot more if he was the main character instead.
For me, the best thing about this book was the Wyrde itself. The Wyrde is a mysterious power that certain people have within them that can be activated, that gives them powers such as the ability to talk to the dead, to shapeshift, etc. There are a variety of members of the Werth family presented in this book & all of them have unique & interesting Wyrde powers. I loved reading about the diffent ones & I would really enjoy some history of how the Wyrde started & just more information about it in general. That paranormal aspect was top notch. I loved the idea of the monstrous Books. That section was my favorite part of the story.
I guess I just found this book somewhat all over the place. It could have used some more coherency if plot. Also, I kept expecting some romance. Now, by no means do I think books always need romance, but in this case I think a romantic element would have let me connect more with Gussie. There are two male characters who would've made good love interests, & one female who seemed like she might be interested as well, so maybe the romance is something that will develop later in the series. Unfortunately, I am not sure I am going to continue with the series. I have so many books on my TBR & while I'll probably read book 2 at some point, it is not a huge priority for me. Just FYI, this book does not end on a cliffhanger.
Bottomline, I'm giving Wyrde & Wayward 3½ stars. It was entertaining & I think there is just a ton of potential & possibility for future installments. The pacing really through me off though. I think this book will appeal to people who like regency era urban fantasy or historical fiction with paranormal aspects. It is imaginative & I liked that the language used fit the time period. It is also relatively funny. I laughed out loud a few times while reading. I will probably pick up the next book sometime in the future.
October 11, 2021
Във времената на викторианска Англия, дори и тази, съществуваща в алтернативните фентъзийни светове, богаташките семейства обикновено се покриват за извън сезона в огромните си провинциални имения, където даже цял дракон може да се паркира в задния двор, и пак да остане достатъчно място за вечерни романтични разходки покрай бодливия плет. И това съвсем буквално в света на странните синьокръвници на Шарлот Инглиш. Родът Уиърд си е точно това, което настоява името му – странен. На третият рожден ден на всеки нов член на странната фамилия, същият го удря хилядолетно проклятие и му се случват разни приказни неща – я ще му порасне рибешка опашка като на малката русалка, я къдричките му ще почнат да съскат и хапят по горгонски, или от пръстчетата на малкото прохождащо същество ще полетят светкавици, огнени топки или ледени остриета. При късмет (лош) може малкото фарфалаче даже да се овърколачи, овампирчи или одраконичи, или поне за малко, което създава сериозни проблеми с намирането на бавачки. И всички щастливо кимват и правят декоративни промени в замъците си, за да приютят новият биологичен вид.
А най-големият срам е когато на третият рожден не се случи нищо… Нормалността е странност и проклятие в тази алтернативна форма на семейство Адамс, и Августа – Гъси – Уиърд е черната – или да речем доста бялата овчица на рода, различаваща се от обикновения, червенокръвен обслужващ персонал по… нищо. Или поне на пръв поглед. Всъщност тя притежава добре пазена и от самата нея тайна , а именно че е приносител на на най-зловещият дар на семейство Уиърд – това да уиърдва нищо неподозиращи хора, в които по неведоми (разбирай включващи обичайно плевни и полянки) начини тече капчица благородна уиърдска кръв. И така до вчера обикновеният шивач става зловещ циклоп, скромната млекарка започва да плюе огън, а кроткият пастор някак неудобно развива рога и опашка. Иди после се обяснявай.
Така започва едно страхотно приключение с отвличания, балове с чудовища, човекоядни книги, зомбита, призраци, огрета, пожари и наводнения. А в средата е Гъси – хладнокръвна, любопитна, отегчена и вечно забъркваща се в каши, като да я отвлече дракон, да се сбие с книга с пипала, или да се влюбва през пет минути в цялата палитра странности, които обсебват всеки млад мъж, докоснал се за повече от минутка до ръката ѝ. Чумата Гъси е очарователна, остроумна и откачена, и напълно не на място във висшето общество. Само си представете скандала! А сега прочетете за него! Разтоварващо, леко и непретенциозно четиво за горещите дни на всеки вярващ, че романите на Джейн Остин биха само спечелили от някой вампир или върколак в тон-а. Не, че и такива книги няма – и то, даже са добри. Въобще кой да знае, че романтичната класика може изведнъж да стане интересна 🙂
А най-големият срам е когато на третият рожден не се случи нищо… Нормалността е странност и проклятие в тази алтернативна форма на семейство Адамс, и Августа – Гъси – Уиърд е черната – или да речем доста бялата овчица на рода, различаваща се от обикновения, червенокръвен обслужващ персонал по… нищо. Или поне на пръв поглед. Всъщност тя притежава добре пазена и от самата нея тайна , а именно че е приносител на на най-зловещият дар на семейство Уиърд – това да уиърдва нищо неподозиращи хора, в които по неведоми (разбирай включващи обичайно плевни и полянки) начини тече капчица благородна уиърдска кръв. И така до вчера обикновеният шивач става зловещ циклоп, скромната млекарка започва да плюе огън, а кроткият пастор някак неудобно развива рога и опашка. Иди после се обяснявай.
Така започва едно страхотно приключение с отвличания, балове с чудовища, човекоядни книги, зомбита, призраци, огрета, пожари и наводнения. А в средата е Гъси – хладнокръвна, любопитна, отегчена и вечно забъркваща се в каши, като да я отвлече дракон, да се сбие с книга с пипала, или да се влюбва през пет минути в цялата палитра странности, които обсебват всеки млад мъж, докоснал се за повече от минутка до ръката ѝ. Чумата Гъси е очарователна, остроумна и откачена, и напълно не на място във висшето общество. Само си представете скандала! А сега прочетете за него! Разтоварващо, леко и непретенциозно четиво за горещите дни на всеки вярващ, че романите на Джейн Остин биха само спечелили от някой вампир или върколак в тон-а. Не, че и такива книги няма – и то, даже са добри. Въобще кой да знае, че романтичната класика може изведнъж да стане интересна 🙂
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