What do you think?
Rate this book
Disenchanted
As a renowned wizard, Fitzwilliam Darcy thinks he is familiar with most of the spells, enchantments, and magic practised in the wizarding world. When he reluctantly joins his friend Bingley in Meryton, a small town not known for its magic, he is startled to stumble upon the rare gift possessed by Miss Elizabeth Bennet. The daughter of a poor country squire, she possesses a singular talent: she is not only immune to magic, but she can counter enchantments as well.
Despite their initial dislike of each other, the two draw closer as the threat from the Thieving Necromancer, a dark wizard stealing people’s magic, grows more dangerous.
As Darcy battles nefarious wizards and Elizabeth unravels ever more difficult spells, they uncover dark secrets and break mysterious enchantments.
But love may prove the most important magic of all.
Despite their initial dislike of each other, the two draw closer as the threat from the Thieving Necromancer, a dark wizard stealing people’s magic, grows more dangerous.
As Darcy battles nefarious wizards and Elizabeth unravels ever more difficult spells, they uncover dark secrets and break mysterious enchantments.
But love may prove the most important magic of all.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2020
122 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
October 8, 2025
Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again. ~ C.S. Lewis
Full Disclosure: Many of these books published by Quills and Quartos I have already read from on-line postings. Not so with “Disenchanted” which I would have passed up because I do not like Fantasy/Magical stories. I absolutely do not like Fantasy/Magical stories. And yet … I have read several and loved them.
And here is another. I LOVED IT!
Elizabeth Bennet comes from a modestly magical family, although Hertfordshire was not known for its magic. Her older sister Jane is talented as a healer and a spreader of happiness. Her two youngest sisters are capable in the casting of charms to draw young men to their sides. The middle sister, Mary, is most knowledgeable about spells and potions. Her Mother was well-known in her youth for her love potion. Her father was a gifted wizard but has not cast a spell for twenty-five years.
Poor Elizabeth Bennet seems to have no magical ability of her own. But appearances can be deceptive. Elizabeth’s secret gift is the ability to disenchant.
Fairy Tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten. ~ Neil Gaiman
Quote from the book: He stepped forward again, snapping his fingers and holding out a bright yellow flame—small, but steady above his hand.
“That is quite a feat for a farmer like you,” said a voice behind him.
Tom lost the flame as he skidded back and fell to the ground. “Who are you?” he cried as he pushed himself up on his elbows. Before him rose up from the ground a tall figure shrouded in a cloak darker than the surrounding night.
Every Fairy Tale requires a villain and “Disenchanted” sports the most evil. Years before, England had been in the hands of a Necromancer. The Necromancer is known to be long dead but recent events point otherwise. Someone is stealing magic; mostly from those with weaker abilities but it appears the evil wizard is growing stronger and becoming bolder in attacks.
And now Netherfield Park is let at last. Rumour in Meryton is that a wealthy young Wizard will be in residence along with his family and a friend.
Quote from the book: “She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me; I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies without any magical ability.”
The more things change the more they remain the same and canon Pride and Prejudice events develop in the midst of spells, faes, and the Wizarding Court.
Who is the Thieving Necromancer?
What happened to the Magical Bennets?
How can Elizabeth discover the Thief when Darcy sends her into hiding every time the Necromancer is ready to attack?
I received an ARC of this book with no promise made of a review, good or bad.
If you see the magic in a fairy tale, you can face the future. ~ Danielle Steel
Full Disclosure: Many of these books published by Quills and Quartos I have already read from on-line postings. Not so with “Disenchanted” which I would have passed up because I do not like Fantasy/Magical stories. I absolutely do not like Fantasy/Magical stories. And yet … I have read several and loved them.
And here is another. I LOVED IT!
Elizabeth Bennet comes from a modestly magical family, although Hertfordshire was not known for its magic. Her older sister Jane is talented as a healer and a spreader of happiness. Her two youngest sisters are capable in the casting of charms to draw young men to their sides. The middle sister, Mary, is most knowledgeable about spells and potions. Her Mother was well-known in her youth for her love potion. Her father was a gifted wizard but has not cast a spell for twenty-five years.
Poor Elizabeth Bennet seems to have no magical ability of her own. But appearances can be deceptive. Elizabeth’s secret gift is the ability to disenchant.
Fairy Tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten. ~ Neil Gaiman
Quote from the book: He stepped forward again, snapping his fingers and holding out a bright yellow flame—small, but steady above his hand.
“That is quite a feat for a farmer like you,” said a voice behind him.
Tom lost the flame as he skidded back and fell to the ground. “Who are you?” he cried as he pushed himself up on his elbows. Before him rose up from the ground a tall figure shrouded in a cloak darker than the surrounding night.
Every Fairy Tale requires a villain and “Disenchanted” sports the most evil. Years before, England had been in the hands of a Necromancer. The Necromancer is known to be long dead but recent events point otherwise. Someone is stealing magic; mostly from those with weaker abilities but it appears the evil wizard is growing stronger and becoming bolder in attacks.
And now Netherfield Park is let at last. Rumour in Meryton is that a wealthy young Wizard will be in residence along with his family and a friend.
Quote from the book: “She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me; I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies without any magical ability.”
The more things change the more they remain the same and canon Pride and Prejudice events develop in the midst of spells, faes, and the Wizarding Court.
Who is the Thieving Necromancer?
What happened to the Magical Bennets?
How can Elizabeth discover the Thief when Darcy sends her into hiding every time the Necromancer is ready to attack?
I received an ARC of this book with no promise made of a review, good or bad.
If you see the magic in a fairy tale, you can face the future. ~ Danielle Steel
May 10, 2020
I was eager to pick up this magically-flavored variation on a classic that is a cover to cover charmer.
Disenchanted is a standalone variation story that can be enjoyed regardless of whether the reader is familiar with Austen's Pride & Prejudice or not. It follows the principle points of that story until about halfway when the magical part of the plot jogs the events into a new and suspenseful direction.
I love the premise that magic and magic users are part of the everyday life of the world in the time of Regency England. Manners and magic was melded so well in this one. It was fun to see how the character's personalities seemed to play a role in what sort of magic they wielded like it was an extension of who they are. Of course, the sparkling and diverting Miss Elizabeth Bennet had a gift that confounds the unflappable, arrogant and extremely gifted Mr. Darcy just as Elizabeth doesn't know what to make of a man who irks her deeply and yet she can't get him out of her mind even when the conniving Mr. Wickham tries to set her against Darcy.
The characters were engaging and I found the secondary story of Elizabeth's parents endearing in the end and a source of curiosity toward the beginning. Loved getting the secrets from the past as the characters opened up to each other.
The first half of the book set up the world and past events, the characters, and the beginning of the plot so it moved along at a slower yet steadier more character-oriented pace. While, the latter half sprang into action and picked up the pace sacrificing a little of the careful development of the first half to deliver a stronger action-suspense line joining the romance. I did wish a few times that the action happened on stage rather than described after the fact. The mystery of who this new Necromancer was kept its reveal until the end for me though my suspicions were close.
It is a great opposites attract sweet romance where people from two different worlds must come to see each other's worth and respect what the other brings to the table. It was a nice journey of the heart and growth they were both on even while struggling to work together to thwart the danger.
In the end, I adored this enchanting romance, the clever mystery of who is responsible for the evil sorcery, and a fun historical fantasy world that mashes Harry Potter with Pride and Prejudice. I look forward to more of this debut author's work.
My thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of the book to read in exchange for an honest review.
Disenchanted is a standalone variation story that can be enjoyed regardless of whether the reader is familiar with Austen's Pride & Prejudice or not. It follows the principle points of that story until about halfway when the magical part of the plot jogs the events into a new and suspenseful direction.
I love the premise that magic and magic users are part of the everyday life of the world in the time of Regency England. Manners and magic was melded so well in this one. It was fun to see how the character's personalities seemed to play a role in what sort of magic they wielded like it was an extension of who they are. Of course, the sparkling and diverting Miss Elizabeth Bennet had a gift that confounds the unflappable, arrogant and extremely gifted Mr. Darcy just as Elizabeth doesn't know what to make of a man who irks her deeply and yet she can't get him out of her mind even when the conniving Mr. Wickham tries to set her against Darcy.
The characters were engaging and I found the secondary story of Elizabeth's parents endearing in the end and a source of curiosity toward the beginning. Loved getting the secrets from the past as the characters opened up to each other.
The first half of the book set up the world and past events, the characters, and the beginning of the plot so it moved along at a slower yet steadier more character-oriented pace. While, the latter half sprang into action and picked up the pace sacrificing a little of the careful development of the first half to deliver a stronger action-suspense line joining the romance. I did wish a few times that the action happened on stage rather than described after the fact. The mystery of who this new Necromancer was kept its reveal until the end for me though my suspicions were close.
It is a great opposites attract sweet romance where people from two different worlds must come to see each other's worth and respect what the other brings to the table. It was a nice journey of the heart and growth they were both on even while struggling to work together to thwart the danger.
In the end, I adored this enchanting romance, the clever mystery of who is responsible for the evil sorcery, and a fun historical fantasy world that mashes Harry Potter with Pride and Prejudice. I look forward to more of this debut author's work.
My thanks to the publisher for providing a copy of the book to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2020
“May the forces of evil become confused on the way to your house.” –George Carlin
Rating: clean, though there are scenes that might be a bit violent. [4.5-stars]
“The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don’t do anything about it.” –Albert Einstein
OMG! This was amazing, creative, thrilling, and downright spellbinding [OK, pun intended]. It was in the wee hours of the morning when I finally crashed. I CNPID [could-not-put-it-down]. This was exciting from beginning to end. It was full of intrigue, a mystery to be solved, evil to be vanquished, paranormal works of both good and evil, and an evil presence whose identity was withheld for most of the story. There were elements reminiscent of Harry Potter, The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, all tossed liberally with Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
“Nothing is easier than to denounce the evildoer; nothing is more difficult than to understand him.” –Fyodor Dostoevsky
What I liked: D&E of course. There were many supporting characters that held strong positions in the evolution of this story and I just loved them.
“It is very hard for evil to take hold of the unconsenting soul.” –Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
What I didn’t like: There was a lot of repeating of canon text that became tedious. You couldn’t speedread over it as it was tweaked a bit to match this storyline. There was also a section that sort of dragged a bit and slowed down the story. Some of it didn’t seem necessary and could have easily been removed and/or shortened and not hurt the story. There were a few threads left dangling… I still have questions… one being what of Bennet’s last name? Who were they before? Did they have any standing or were of any consequence? What happened to … you know… him? Did Darcy replace Richard’s waistcoats? I mean… seriously… the poor boy and his wardrobe were not having a good day.
4-27-20: This was an ARC from Quills & Quartos Publishing with no expectations of a review. The thoughts and views expressed are my own.
Rating: clean, though there are scenes that might be a bit violent. [4.5-stars]
“The world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don’t do anything about it.” –Albert Einstein
OMG! This was amazing, creative, thrilling, and downright spellbinding [OK, pun intended]. It was in the wee hours of the morning when I finally crashed. I CNPID [could-not-put-it-down]. This was exciting from beginning to end. It was full of intrigue, a mystery to be solved, evil to be vanquished, paranormal works of both good and evil, and an evil presence whose identity was withheld for most of the story. There were elements reminiscent of Harry Potter, The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, all tossed liberally with Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
“Nothing is easier than to denounce the evildoer; nothing is more difficult than to understand him.” –Fyodor Dostoevsky
What I liked: D&E of course. There were many supporting characters that held strong positions in the evolution of this story and I just loved them.
“It is very hard for evil to take hold of the unconsenting soul.” –Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
What I didn’t like: There was a lot of repeating of canon text that became tedious. You couldn’t speedread over it as it was tweaked a bit to match this storyline. There was also a section that sort of dragged a bit and slowed down the story. Some of it didn’t seem necessary and could have easily been removed and/or shortened and not hurt the story. There were a few threads left dangling… I still have questions… one being what of Bennet’s last name? Who were they before? Did they have any standing or were of any consequence? What happened to … you know… him? Did Darcy replace Richard’s waistcoats? I mean… seriously… the poor boy and his wardrobe were not having a good day.
4-27-20: This was an ARC from Quills & Quartos Publishing with no expectations of a review. The thoughts and views expressed are my own.
April 29, 2020
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. I read this in late 2019 as an unpublished story on A Happy Assembly. I received a copy of the story from the publishers.
Much of the first half of the story echoes the course of P&P's canon. However, the British countryside is inhabited by men & women, and fae creatures with various magical powers of different importance and strength. While Jane has healing powers and her younger sisters can enhance their appearances when going out for the evening to a ball, Elizabeth and her parents seem to have none. Although Mr. Bennet has authored a book about enchantments he seems to have lost what he might have had in the past. He leads a very secluded life now.
The Bingley party arrives at Netherfield. Jane visits and becomes ill and it is due more to a tea Caroline serves her than how bedraggled she was upon arrival. Elizabeth, knowing of Jane's healing powers realizes something is wrong and also shows up. Now we learn that Elizabeth, while unable to cast spells and/or enchantments, can undo any magical spell other might cast. Bingley and Darcy are members of an exclusive society of wizards (the Wizarding Court). Elizabeth soon secretly witnesses Darcy practicing his magic with fire balls of various colors. Again we have Wickham showing up and his tale against Darcy is changed a bit as it has to do with being denied membership in that secret society.
When Elizabeth goes off to visit the Collinses in Kent the story begins to have more dramatic and different (from canon) events. A "Thief" has been stealing magical powers, mostly from minor persons (a farmer, a maid) but the problem is that as this thief amasses various magical powers he/she may soon become so powerful that there is no way to control anything he/she may decide to do. There are many details here about past wizards and even how Sir de Bourgh was one of those evil wizards and was killed and how his wife now allows NO magic at Rosings, even to be talked about.
Elizabeth is able to sense magic which may be invisible to others and so it is that she inadvertently reveals her powers to the Thief. Now she has to be hidden from his view. And so this story evolves into a tale of good vs evil among the magical forces. There are some surprises and other characters become part of the happenings.
Yes, Darcy helps separate Jane from Bingley and, yes, there it that proposal. But don't assume you know how it is going to spin with those two clues. I enjoyed this story and had forgotten enough from my first reading that I was again turning pages to find out what happened next!
Much of the first half of the story echoes the course of P&P's canon. However, the British countryside is inhabited by men & women, and fae creatures with various magical powers of different importance and strength. While Jane has healing powers and her younger sisters can enhance their appearances when going out for the evening to a ball, Elizabeth and her parents seem to have none. Although Mr. Bennet has authored a book about enchantments he seems to have lost what he might have had in the past. He leads a very secluded life now.
The Bingley party arrives at Netherfield. Jane visits and becomes ill and it is due more to a tea Caroline serves her than how bedraggled she was upon arrival. Elizabeth, knowing of Jane's healing powers realizes something is wrong and also shows up. Now we learn that Elizabeth, while unable to cast spells and/or enchantments, can undo any magical spell other might cast. Bingley and Darcy are members of an exclusive society of wizards (the Wizarding Court). Elizabeth soon secretly witnesses Darcy practicing his magic with fire balls of various colors. Again we have Wickham showing up and his tale against Darcy is changed a bit as it has to do with being denied membership in that secret society.
When Elizabeth goes off to visit the Collinses in Kent the story begins to have more dramatic and different (from canon) events. A "Thief" has been stealing magical powers, mostly from minor persons (a farmer, a maid) but the problem is that as this thief amasses various magical powers he/she may soon become so powerful that there is no way to control anything he/she may decide to do. There are many details here about past wizards and even how Sir de Bourgh was one of those evil wizards and was killed and how his wife now allows NO magic at Rosings, even to be talked about.
Elizabeth is able to sense magic which may be invisible to others and so it is that she inadvertently reveals her powers to the Thief. Now she has to be hidden from his view. And so this story evolves into a tale of good vs evil among the magical forces. There are some surprises and other characters become part of the happenings.
Yes, Darcy helps separate Jane from Bingley and, yes, there it that proposal. But don't assume you know how it is going to spin with those two clues. I enjoyed this story and had forgotten enough from my first reading that I was again turning pages to find out what happened next!
December 27, 2020
What If Magic and Wizardry Existed in Pride and Prejudice?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins with Mr. Bingley’s arrival in Netherfield
SYNOPSIS: In this Pride and Prejudice world, magic and wizardry in different forms and abilities exist. Some characters are able to cast simple spells and charms, while others can control elements and harness powerful magic. Mr. Darcy, an “exceptionally talented wizard” who joins his friend Mr. Bingley in his newly-let Netherfield Park, is greatly unimpressed with Meryton and its folk magic and inconsequential and talentless citizens. That is until he meets Elizabeth Bennet and her father. Mr. Darcy finds himself intrigued by the secret abilities of one and the past reputation of the other. But times are dangerous as reports of a thieving Necromancer (similar to one that existed many years ago) is using dark arts to steal magic from other others. Mr. Darcy is determined to uncover and apprehend this new Necromancer. Can Elizabeth and her unique abilities help his mission? Or are his developing feelings for her a danger to them both?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Magic: Seeing our beloved Pride and Prejudice world colored with shades of magic was wonderfully unique and exciting! I love all the different levels of abilities and types of magic used. From the simple love potions, beauty charms, and anti-tripping spells to the defensive charms, enchanted correspondence, and portals. I loved seeing how characters employed magic in their lives and learning the extent of their abilities. It was all very clever and fitting to the characters we know and love. Kara Pleasants adeptly transformed Pride and Prejudice into a fantastical yet conceivable world where magic exists.
- Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet: I don’t want to give away much about either of these characters abilities and relationship with magic, but I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed the spotlight on Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet, their unique singularities, and their relationship with each other. I loved Ms. Pleasant’s thoughtful and clever decisions with these characters.
- Influences and Nods: With magic, Wizarding Courts, necromancers, enchanted woods I was getting all sorts of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings vibes with this tale and I loved it! Fans of these novels will love to recognize some familiar elements and subtle nods to other beloved fantasy classics. I also loved the use of code names and the nods to Shakespeare. Kara Pleasants clearly has exceptional taste in reading!
- Mystery and Danger: Not only is the reader wondering about this new Necromancer and their evil intents, but also slowly learning about the past dealings with the first Necromancer and wondering if there is any connection between the two! Kara Pleasants kept readers in the dark for as long as she could and executed her slow reveals perfectly.
- Surprising and Satisfying: There were several brilliant twists that I did not see coming and I completely loved them all! And just when you think that you saw the last twist and know what will happen next, there is one more shocking reveal! I absolutely adored the conclusion for this story – and the completely touching events that resulted from the conclusion! Well done, Ms. Pleasants!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Swiftness: There were some magical elements, creatures, worlds, and rules that were introduced in a quick and brief succession towards the end. I wouldn’t have minded some more time to digest and understand these new elements. In addition, I thought some of Elizabeth’s and Mr. Darcy’s feelings towards each other progressed and changed a little swiftly.
CONCLUSION:
Disenchanted does not need any charms, spells, or enchantments cast to make it a compelling and captivating read. Kara Pleasant’s thrilling premise, thoughtful choices, clever developments, and deft execution provide a wondrous mixture that will effortlessly cast readers under its spell – whether they are interested in fantasy or not. I loved my foray into the magical world of Elizabeth Bennet and I would love to conjure the ability to visit it in person!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation
TIME FRAME: Begins with Mr. Bingley’s arrival in Netherfield
SYNOPSIS: In this Pride and Prejudice world, magic and wizardry in different forms and abilities exist. Some characters are able to cast simple spells and charms, while others can control elements and harness powerful magic. Mr. Darcy, an “exceptionally talented wizard” who joins his friend Mr. Bingley in his newly-let Netherfield Park, is greatly unimpressed with Meryton and its folk magic and inconsequential and talentless citizens. That is until he meets Elizabeth Bennet and her father. Mr. Darcy finds himself intrigued by the secret abilities of one and the past reputation of the other. But times are dangerous as reports of a thieving Necromancer (similar to one that existed many years ago) is using dark arts to steal magic from other others. Mr. Darcy is determined to uncover and apprehend this new Necromancer. Can Elizabeth and her unique abilities help his mission? Or are his developing feelings for her a danger to them both?
WHAT I LOVED:
- Magic: Seeing our beloved Pride and Prejudice world colored with shades of magic was wonderfully unique and exciting! I love all the different levels of abilities and types of magic used. From the simple love potions, beauty charms, and anti-tripping spells to the defensive charms, enchanted correspondence, and portals. I loved seeing how characters employed magic in their lives and learning the extent of their abilities. It was all very clever and fitting to the characters we know and love. Kara Pleasants adeptly transformed Pride and Prejudice into a fantastical yet conceivable world where magic exists.
- Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet: I don’t want to give away much about either of these characters abilities and relationship with magic, but I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed the spotlight on Elizabeth and Mr. Bennet, their unique singularities, and their relationship with each other. I loved Ms. Pleasant’s thoughtful and clever decisions with these characters.
- Influences and Nods: With magic, Wizarding Courts, necromancers, enchanted woods I was getting all sorts of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings vibes with this tale and I loved it! Fans of these novels will love to recognize some familiar elements and subtle nods to other beloved fantasy classics. I also loved the use of code names and the nods to Shakespeare. Kara Pleasants clearly has exceptional taste in reading!
- Mystery and Danger: Not only is the reader wondering about this new Necromancer and their evil intents, but also slowly learning about the past dealings with the first Necromancer and wondering if there is any connection between the two! Kara Pleasants kept readers in the dark for as long as she could and executed her slow reveals perfectly.
- Surprising and Satisfying: There were several brilliant twists that I did not see coming and I completely loved them all! And just when you think that you saw the last twist and know what will happen next, there is one more shocking reveal! I absolutely adored the conclusion for this story – and the completely touching events that resulted from the conclusion! Well done, Ms. Pleasants!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
- Some Swiftness: There were some magical elements, creatures, worlds, and rules that were introduced in a quick and brief succession towards the end. I wouldn’t have minded some more time to digest and understand these new elements. In addition, I thought some of Elizabeth’s and Mr. Darcy’s feelings towards each other progressed and changed a little swiftly.
CONCLUSION:
Disenchanted does not need any charms, spells, or enchantments cast to make it a compelling and captivating read. Kara Pleasant’s thrilling premise, thoughtful choices, clever developments, and deft execution provide a wondrous mixture that will effortlessly cast readers under its spell – whether they are interested in fantasy or not. I loved my foray into the magical world of Elizabeth Bennet and I would love to conjure the ability to visit it in person!
Austenesque Reviews
May 27, 2020
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
I have never been a huge fan of magical stories and I don’t usually feel tempted to read anything of the kind so I was expecting Disenchanted to be a nice story, but I certainly wasn’t expecting it to captivate me as it did. This book is simply magnificent for those who love the genre and those who don’t! I couldn’t put it down and I had a great time reading it. I kept feeling compelled to read this book, and it had been a while since I have had this feeling.
Kara Pleasants developed a society where magic is present even in the small details, and where the biggest wizards are considered the best society can offer. Mr. Darcy is obviously one of the most respected Wizards in society and the story starts with him traveling with Mr. Bingley to Hertfordshire to pursuit a mission: continue the fight of the Wizarding Court against the Thief, an evil Wizard who has been stealing other peoples powers.
The story will have much to tell, and throughout the book the reader will receive several hints concerning not only past events involving the Necromancer, but also about the Bennet family and their secrets. The Bennet family mystery was one of my favourite aspects of the book because it is extremely well integrated in the plot, and kept me guessing until the end. I absolutely loved how all the clues were laid in front of me without giving me margin to know what was coming ahead.
Disenchanted is full of mystery but also adventure and excitement. We see Mr. Darcy trying to discover and fight the Thief while also protecting and helping Elizabeth which was very romantic in it’s own way. In fact, Elizabeth and Darcy share a chemistry that I loved, and in the end it is proven their love is stronger than anything, even the darkest magic, which was delightful.
I was particularly happy to see that Elizabeth was no longer seen as someone who needed protection, but someone who could contribute to the cause and make Mr. Darcy even stronger. That’s how I always picture them, as two people who make one another stronger because of their differences, and in this story that is illustrated with enchantment and disenchantment.
The end of the book was everything I could hope for and more! It was very curious because I kept wanting the author to take the story into a certain direction and she always did, especially when it came to Mrs. Bennet. I must say her actions towards Lady Catherine were perfect, what she did, the way she did it and her comments afterwards were beautiful and everything I was expecting. Mrs. Bennet’s character finally got what she deserved and I couldn’t be happier with the ending Kara Pleasants gave her. It was a beautiful closure to a beautiful story.
Disenchanted certainly enchanted me. The book is well written and fluid and the storyline is compelling, dynamic and romantic.
This book pretty much follows canon, only adding the magical realm and the Thief storyline, but it turned out to be a real page turner. I felt very engaged not only with the characters, but also with the magical storyline which is something I never expected to happen and reveals a lot about Kara Pleasants talent as a storyteller. I definitely recommend it to everyone, it is a great story and another one to add to my pile of 2020 favourites.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
I have never been a huge fan of magical stories and I don’t usually feel tempted to read anything of the kind so I was expecting Disenchanted to be a nice story, but I certainly wasn’t expecting it to captivate me as it did. This book is simply magnificent for those who love the genre and those who don’t! I couldn’t put it down and I had a great time reading it. I kept feeling compelled to read this book, and it had been a while since I have had this feeling.
Kara Pleasants developed a society where magic is present even in the small details, and where the biggest wizards are considered the best society can offer. Mr. Darcy is obviously one of the most respected Wizards in society and the story starts with him traveling with Mr. Bingley to Hertfordshire to pursuit a mission: continue the fight of the Wizarding Court against the Thief, an evil Wizard who has been stealing other peoples powers.
The story will have much to tell, and throughout the book the reader will receive several hints concerning not only past events involving the Necromancer, but also about the Bennet family and their secrets. The Bennet family mystery was one of my favourite aspects of the book because it is extremely well integrated in the plot, and kept me guessing until the end. I absolutely loved how all the clues were laid in front of me without giving me margin to know what was coming ahead.
Disenchanted is full of mystery but also adventure and excitement. We see Mr. Darcy trying to discover and fight the Thief while also protecting and helping Elizabeth which was very romantic in it’s own way. In fact, Elizabeth and Darcy share a chemistry that I loved, and in the end it is proven their love is stronger than anything, even the darkest magic, which was delightful.
I was particularly happy to see that Elizabeth was no longer seen as someone who needed protection, but someone who could contribute to the cause and make Mr. Darcy even stronger. That’s how I always picture them, as two people who make one another stronger because of their differences, and in this story that is illustrated with enchantment and disenchantment.
The end of the book was everything I could hope for and more! It was very curious because I kept wanting the author to take the story into a certain direction and she always did, especially when it came to Mrs. Bennet. I must say her actions towards Lady Catherine were perfect, what she did, the way she did it and her comments afterwards were beautiful and everything I was expecting. Mrs. Bennet’s character finally got what she deserved and I couldn’t be happier with the ending Kara Pleasants gave her. It was a beautiful closure to a beautiful story.
Disenchanted certainly enchanted me. The book is well written and fluid and the storyline is compelling, dynamic and romantic.
This book pretty much follows canon, only adding the magical realm and the Thief storyline, but it turned out to be a real page turner. I felt very engaged not only with the characters, but also with the magical storyline which is something I never expected to happen and reveals a lot about Kara Pleasants talent as a storyteller. I definitely recommend it to everyone, it is a great story and another one to add to my pile of 2020 favourites.
May 18, 2020
The story unfolds at a steady, measured pace, but that’s no bad thing — only because this novel is not your average Jane Austen fan fiction. If you think you can skim through the familiar “Pride and Prejudice” bits, don’t. Mystical details are revealed through the telling and you don’t want to miss anything or not understand any of the magical lore—especially when the action heats up and you are trying to figure out the Thief right along with Darcy and Elizabeth. Though a paranormal intrigue, there are plenty of heart pounding moments for and between our dear Elizabeth and Darcy as they find their way to each other. Make sure to add this one to your TBR pile and schedule out a couple days to read. You won’t want to put it down. “Disenchanted” is enchanting!
January 21, 2024
I was delighted to receive this book as a gift during the annual Jolobokaflod event I participated in. Thank you, Teresa!
“I am sure nothing in Hertfordshire – of all places – could make Darcy take leave of his senses, much less fall under enchantment.” (quote from the book)
This was a delightful magical variation on Pride & Prejudice. What if magic and wizardry were part of daily life during the Regency period? Who is the evil necromancer that is stealing magic? What does Mr. Darcy learn about the Bennet family while in Hertfordshire where he feels only primitive magic abounds?
This story plays out closely to canon, which at the beginning did slow things down for me. I enjoyed the little tweaks that were made, but I didn’t become fully engaged until halfway through. The insult and the disastrous Hunsford proposal still happen but what comes after certainly had me flying through the book! I thought I had two possibilities for who the necromancer was, but I was completely wrong on both counts.
This book is well written and engaging, and I highly recommend it if you love a bit of fantasy and magic in your Jane Austen!
“I am sure nothing in Hertfordshire – of all places – could make Darcy take leave of his senses, much less fall under enchantment.” (quote from the book)
This was a delightful magical variation on Pride & Prejudice. What if magic and wizardry were part of daily life during the Regency period? Who is the evil necromancer that is stealing magic? What does Mr. Darcy learn about the Bennet family while in Hertfordshire where he feels only primitive magic abounds?
This story plays out closely to canon, which at the beginning did slow things down for me. I enjoyed the little tweaks that were made, but I didn’t become fully engaged until halfway through. The insult and the disastrous Hunsford proposal still happen but what comes after certainly had me flying through the book! I thought I had two possibilities for who the necromancer was, but I was completely wrong on both counts.
This book is well written and engaging, and I highly recommend it if you love a bit of fantasy and magic in your Jane Austen!
May 8, 2020
5+ stars!
Really excellent Pride and Prejudice variation which, thanks to outstanding storytelling, credibly and seamlessly infuses the classic plot with magic and mystery.
In this Regency universe, it's common to have some magical ability, though the types and strength of that ability are as diverse as the people. Generally, greater magical ability coincides with height in the Regency social hierarchy.
Elizabeth and her father are unusual exceptions to this - she's never displayed any magical power at all and Mr. Bennet, though reputed to have been an extremely talented wizard in the past, has not done any magic in years so it's believed that he lost it somehow. His marriage to Mrs. Bennet is reported to be the result of a very powerful love potion or spell, so local young men are wary of her daughters, especially the youngest, who attempt to employ their mother's tactics.
The backstory tells of an evil Necromancer, or Thief, who once terrorized England by stealing powers from others, but he was defeated and killed quite a while back. However, there are recent reports of a few attacks that are disturbingly similar. Darcy is a powerful wizard himself and part of a group called the Wizarding Court trying to track and capture the current Thief.
All of this information is flawlessly integrated into the first half of the traditional P&P storyline. Some passages are Jane Austen's, and Ms. Pleasants does an impressive job of blending her own words with nary a ripple between the old text and the new.
Darcy is a reluctant participant at the Meryton assembly, and Elizabeth overhears his insult. Despite having no magical powers of her own, she gives him a nonverbal set-down that startles him. Aside from his personal attraction to her, he believes there's more to her than her reputation suggests. Jane becomes ill and needs to recover at Netherfield for several days, but it's due to Caroline Bingley's attempt to break a love spell she's certain Jane must have used to entrap her brother Charles.
The book continues in this way, staying true to canon but also injecting creative magical twists into the familiar story. Fittingly, it's after Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal at Hunsford that the plot veers sharply from canon, as circumstances push Elizabeth into assisting Darcy's search for The Thief. Impressively, even then I could recognize some echoes of the original storyline.
The climax is a doozy. I had some suspicions about the identity of The Thief (I guessed wrong), and the way the evil-doer is finally overcome is just fantastic!
I love everything about this. Content is clean. Highly recommend!
I received an ARC with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise
Really excellent Pride and Prejudice variation which, thanks to outstanding storytelling, credibly and seamlessly infuses the classic plot with magic and mystery.
In this Regency universe, it's common to have some magical ability, though the types and strength of that ability are as diverse as the people. Generally, greater magical ability coincides with height in the Regency social hierarchy.
Elizabeth and her father are unusual exceptions to this - she's never displayed any magical power at all and Mr. Bennet, though reputed to have been an extremely talented wizard in the past, has not done any magic in years so it's believed that he lost it somehow. His marriage to Mrs. Bennet is reported to be the result of a very powerful love potion or spell, so local young men are wary of her daughters, especially the youngest, who attempt to employ their mother's tactics.
The backstory tells of an evil Necromancer, or Thief, who once terrorized England by stealing powers from others, but he was defeated and killed quite a while back. However, there are recent reports of a few attacks that are disturbingly similar. Darcy is a powerful wizard himself and part of a group called the Wizarding Court trying to track and capture the current Thief.
All of this information is flawlessly integrated into the first half of the traditional P&P storyline. Some passages are Jane Austen's, and Ms. Pleasants does an impressive job of blending her own words with nary a ripple between the old text and the new.
Darcy is a reluctant participant at the Meryton assembly, and Elizabeth overhears his insult. Despite having no magical powers of her own, she gives him a nonverbal set-down that startles him. Aside from his personal attraction to her, he believes there's more to her than her reputation suggests. Jane becomes ill and needs to recover at Netherfield for several days, but it's due to Caroline Bingley's attempt to break a love spell she's certain Jane must have used to entrap her brother Charles.
The book continues in this way, staying true to canon but also injecting creative magical twists into the familiar story. Fittingly, it's after Mr. Darcy's marriage proposal at Hunsford that the plot veers sharply from canon, as circumstances push Elizabeth into assisting Darcy's search for The Thief. Impressively, even then I could recognize some echoes of the original storyline.
The climax is a doozy. I had some suspicions about the identity of The Thief (I guessed wrong), and the way the evil-doer is finally overcome is just fantastic!
I love everything about this. Content is clean. Highly recommend!
I received an ARC with no promise of a review, favorable or otherwise
September 3, 2020
Magical Pride and Prejudice
Following the timeline of canon. The wizards Bingley and Darcy enter Meryton with low expectations finding anyone with great magical powers. Elizabeth, for instance, has none and her father has lost his.
England is threatened by a dark thief, stealing the magical powers of others and growing in strength. The hunt for the thief drives the book forward in addition to the relationship between ODC.
Rated: Chaste
Recommend
Following the timeline of canon. The wizards Bingley and Darcy enter Meryton with low expectations finding anyone with great magical powers. Elizabeth, for instance, has none and her father has lost his.
England is threatened by a dark thief, stealing the magical powers of others and growing in strength. The hunt for the thief drives the book forward in addition to the relationship between ODC.
Rated: Chaste
Recommend
May 16, 2020
Posted on: https://myvicesandweaknesses.wordpres...
This book has a lovely flow: the story runs smoothly, the characters are full and understood, the magic is easily explained and easy to believe, and the end is...
Spoiler Alert!
.
.
.
.
.
Happy!
What did you expect? :D
Darcy and Elizabeth meet at the Meryton Assembly, he is rude and she is witty (he trips oops). This is the "normal" procedure for them in almost any JAFF story and then continues with the misunderstandings, but in this story, we need to put MAGIC in many conversations and moments. Just an example: Jane does not fall ill because of the rain... however, she has to stay at Netherfield and her sister goes to nurse her. Nurse her very quickly!! Darcy is a very powerful wizard and his suspicion quickly becomes the truth: he knows of Elizabeth's power and he is even more intrigued by this lady.
Yes, the militia comes and brings Wickham, I still do not like him in this story and things get more complicated between Darcy and Elizabeth (just in case you were wondering).
The Thief Necromancer keeps taking the magic from others, not killing anyone but perhaps soon? We will see. The most powerful and scholar wizards are trying to stop this thief and somehow Elizabeth is involved while in Rosings. I am sorry but I am not mentioning anything about Rosings or the parsonage. I will only say that this declaration of love and the refusal are direct and regretful at the same time but soon things need to change (not like accepting the proposal but to be civil to each other) because of the safety of many.
Mr Bennet is as usual, an enigmatic character who does not pay much attention to his family, does he? I like him, his story is a sad one but it helps seeing somebody else in a different light.
Do you remember that in Jane Austen's book, Elizabeth visits Pemberley with her aunt and uncle? In Disenchanted, she also visits and, even if I have been at Lyme Park and Chatsworth House, I want to see what this Elizabeth has seen!!
I really enjoy the way to love and how blind Darcy is when Elizabeth is in his house, even Colonel Fitwilliam realises before he does! Elizabeth leaving Pemberley and going back to Longbourn and the rest of the story is a very enyojable journey!
By the way, I love code names.
This book has a lovely flow: the story runs smoothly, the characters are full and understood, the magic is easily explained and easy to believe, and the end is...
Spoiler Alert!
.
.
.
.
.
Happy!
What did you expect? :D
Darcy and Elizabeth meet at the Meryton Assembly, he is rude and she is witty (he trips oops). This is the "normal" procedure for them in almost any JAFF story and then continues with the misunderstandings, but in this story, we need to put MAGIC in many conversations and moments. Just an example: Jane does not fall ill because of the rain... however, she has to stay at Netherfield and her sister goes to nurse her. Nurse her very quickly!! Darcy is a very powerful wizard and his suspicion quickly becomes the truth: he knows of Elizabeth's power and he is even more intrigued by this lady.
Yes, the militia comes and brings Wickham, I still do not like him in this story and things get more complicated between Darcy and Elizabeth (just in case you were wondering).
The Thief Necromancer keeps taking the magic from others, not killing anyone but perhaps soon? We will see. The most powerful and scholar wizards are trying to stop this thief and somehow Elizabeth is involved while in Rosings. I am sorry but I am not mentioning anything about Rosings or the parsonage. I will only say that this declaration of love and the refusal are direct and regretful at the same time but soon things need to change (not like accepting the proposal but to be civil to each other) because of the safety of many.
Mr Bennet is as usual, an enigmatic character who does not pay much attention to his family, does he? I like him, his story is a sad one but it helps seeing somebody else in a different light.
Do you remember that in Jane Austen's book, Elizabeth visits Pemberley with her aunt and uncle? In Disenchanted, she also visits and, even if I have been at Lyme Park and Chatsworth House, I want to see what this Elizabeth has seen!!
I really enjoy the way to love and how blind Darcy is when Elizabeth is in his house, even Colonel Fitwilliam realises before he does! Elizabeth leaving Pemberley and going back to Longbourn and the rest of the story is a very enyojable journey!
By the way, I love code names.
May 7, 2020
An action-packed and mysterious Pride and Prejudice variation! What started out as a rather subtle and almost believable weaving of magic into the original story, eventually became an epic fantasy tale. I was somewhat skeptical at first about this story's premise, but I was equally curious to see how a bit of magic mixed in might play out with our beloved characters, and I was not disappointed. This was a charming story (pun intended). Perhaps too far-fetched for Janeites who prefer stricter adherence to canon, but for those who might enjoy a wild adventure with our dear characters, this book is for you. The world-building brings to mind Harry Potter, Shakespeare, and even Alice in Wonderland. A uniquely entertaining and thoroughly clever Pride and Prejudice variation unlike any other I've ever read.
April 20, 2021
4.5* Listend on audiobook. The narrator did a great job dramatizing the story.
Not sure I would have enjoyed as much if read, but listening helps adjust the fantasy aspect.
One must suspend "reality" at the mesh of science fantasy and P&P. It follows canon (which I could have done with that being changed up a bit more) with the added magic and wizards, good and evil, etc.
Of course Elizabeth is a bit different, as she can't perform magic, but keeps the secret that she can undo spells and enchantments. Darcy is powerful, etc, and all the other characters fall in to place in the magic world as they would fit in the classic P&P.
The first half is fairly canon-heavy, the the second half being more about the magic struggle. We don't hear from Bingley's sisters again, Lydia doesn't get in to trouble and Wickham all but disappears.
Highly entertaining!
Not sure I would have enjoyed as much if read, but listening helps adjust the fantasy aspect.
One must suspend "reality" at the mesh of science fantasy and P&P. It follows canon (which I could have done with that being changed up a bit more) with the added magic and wizards, good and evil, etc.
Of course Elizabeth is a bit different, as she can't perform magic, but keeps the secret that she can undo spells and enchantments. Darcy is powerful, etc, and all the other characters fall in to place in the magic world as they would fit in the classic P&P.
The first half is fairly canon-heavy, the the second half being more about the magic struggle. We don't hear from Bingley's sisters again, Lydia doesn't get in to trouble and Wickham all but disappears.
Highly entertaining!
May 11, 2020
4.5 stars.
This Pride and Prejudice variation is very different, because it is based in a different Regency world, populated by wizards, fairies and etc. I had a great time reading it and enjoyed how Darcy's pride and Elizabeth's prejudice were inserted in a story where he is a gifted wizard and she is thought to be without magic. It was very interesting to see them coming together, understanding and respecting each other in a total different environment. I also loved the background story about Mr and Mrs Bennet. I always like it when Mrs Bennet's character is given a better and more elaborated story.
I recommend this book if you love Pride and Prejudice but would like a very different look at the story along with some mystery and magic.
This Pride and Prejudice variation is very different, because it is based in a different Regency world, populated by wizards, fairies and etc. I had a great time reading it and enjoyed how Darcy's pride and Elizabeth's prejudice were inserted in a story where he is a gifted wizard and she is thought to be without magic. It was very interesting to see them coming together, understanding and respecting each other in a total different environment. I also loved the background story about Mr and Mrs Bennet. I always like it when Mrs Bennet's character is given a better and more elaborated story.
I recommend this book if you love Pride and Prejudice but would like a very different look at the story along with some mystery and magic.
May 11, 2020
An absolutely magical story inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel Pride and Prejudice. What if magic existed in Regency England? This story had it all...romance, adventure and mystery combined into one fabulous tale.
July 9, 2020
I'm glad I persisted with this book, the mystery is clever and we'll thought out and the magic at the centre of the story has clear boundaries to what it can and can't do. I think this might be the first P&P variant which gives Mrs Bennet genuine humanity and substance as an individual beyond wanting to marry off her daughters. At times the way the direct quotes from the original book are used is very heavy handed, they feel like they're forced to fit especially in the beginning but it is worth persisting .
May 6, 2020
Wonderful book! I read the ARC and I was totally enchanted by the story, allthough I generally don’t like fantasy (except Harry P.). The way this story is written makes the magic totally logical and real. Besides that, the romance and other storylines are very believable. It was very hard to put away. I hope this is the first of a series of books.
Read
May 4, 2020Review to follow
May 12, 2020
I was excited to read this. It was a fun read but I will admit that I did get misplaced in one part and had to go back k and reread .
Darcy and Elizabeth are certainly the star of the book. All other characters weren’t as dimensional, at least to me.
It was an enjoyable read as I put everything aside so I could read it in one sitting.
Darcy and Elizabeth are certainly the star of the book. All other characters weren’t as dimensional, at least to me.
It was an enjoyable read as I put everything aside so I could read it in one sitting.
June 16, 2021
Wonderful Retelling
This a wonderful magical retelling of Pride and Prejudice that is very delightful. There are a few places that were a little hard to follow but all and all was a great first try. I know I will keep an eye out for others.
This a wonderful magical retelling of Pride and Prejudice that is very delightful. There are a few places that were a little hard to follow but all and all was a great first try. I know I will keep an eye out for others.
May 17, 2020
This Pride and Prejudice variation takes place in a fantasy world of magic. Everyone has a bit and those who have studied are more powerful. The story follows the cannon plot with a shroud of mystery - who is the person who is stealing other people's powers? Darcy is a very powerful and part of the charge to capture such evil. However, Elizabeth comes into his life and twists it up a bit. She can't cast spells but has her own super power.
It was a fun concept, and I really loved the story. There was a lot of original text used and some holes in the story line that had me scratching my head. All that said - I would recommend it to anyone.
It was a fun concept, and I really loved the story. There was a lot of original text used and some holes in the story line that had me scratching my head. All that said - I would recommend it to anyone.
January 31, 2020
4.5
Read at: http://www.meryton.com/mrr/karasings/...
Such an original story. A really clever weaving of magical ideas and yet a fresh take. There are lots of hints at possible villains and events, so that the reader is drawn into the story: at times I was sure of one outcome, the next hint made me question myself.
I found a little too much reuse of the original in early chapters, which was occasionally clunky, but the writing got better as chapters went on. Second half of the story is fantastic.
It is to be published by Q&Q, look forward to reading again.
Read at: http://www.meryton.com/mrr/karasings/...
Such an original story. A really clever weaving of magical ideas and yet a fresh take. There are lots of hints at possible villains and events, so that the reader is drawn into the story: at times I was sure of one outcome, the next hint made me question myself.
I found a little too much reuse of the original in early chapters, which was occasionally clunky, but the writing got better as chapters went on. Second half of the story is fantastic.
It is to be published by Q&Q, look forward to reading again.
January 3, 2022
Magic when Fantasy and Austen meet
I was intrigued by this book when I first came across it was a Kindle Unlimited suggestion. However, I had no idea that I would fall in love with this Austen fantasy world so easily. As a fan of some of the same literary works as the author such as Harry Potter, LOTR and Shakespeare, it shouldn't be a surprise that I enjoyed this book as much as I did. It had so much that I love about it and wish that there was some way to read more about this unique JAFF universe. I'm sure at the very least I'll be reading this story again and again.
I was intrigued by this book when I first came across it was a Kindle Unlimited suggestion. However, I had no idea that I would fall in love with this Austen fantasy world so easily. As a fan of some of the same literary works as the author such as Harry Potter, LOTR and Shakespeare, it shouldn't be a surprise that I enjoyed this book as much as I did. It had so much that I love about it and wish that there was some way to read more about this unique JAFF universe. I'm sure at the very least I'll be reading this story again and again.
August 11, 2025
An excellent and inspired variation.
A polished variation set in a world of magic this stays very true to the original at its heart developing the characters in interesting and authentic ways.
Congratulations to the author on an excellent debut - I heartily recommend this to all.
A polished variation set in a world of magic this stays very true to the original at its heart developing the characters in interesting and authentic ways.
Congratulations to the author on an excellent debut - I heartily recommend this to all.
April 7, 2021
Remarkable premise
What a ride in P&P format. I’m still confused by Pemberely when Elizabeth and the Gardiners visit it. But think I understand the vision. It was a most entertaining story.
What a ride in P&P format. I’m still confused by Pemberely when Elizabeth and the Gardiners visit it. But think I understand the vision. It was a most entertaining story.
April 2, 2016
Another magical P&P that i love and have re-read many times. It is unpublished tale about Magical Regency and P&P characters that have grown with whole new set of prejudices:)
January 20, 2021
To summarize;
Synopsis:
First of all if you are paying attention there is one descriptor for the 'Thieving Necromancer' and it is one hell of a descriptor as it is also applied to a character in 'P&P' and its 'Tall', if you know your stuff it's obvious from the prologue, and it was for me.
Again if you've read P&P before 'The Jester' can only be applied to one character, there cant be two opinions on that.
'The Necromancer' vs 'The Jester' is practically the same showdown as 'Grinderwald' and 'Dumbledore' had and then 'Voldemort' comes back, in this case 'the Thieving Necromancer'.
He doesn't kill anyone just takes powers from unknown characters like lowly farmers. Everyone is loosing their lids over it but it's not clear to reader why as no characters we know are ever harmed, and there is supposed to be these courts full of powerful magicians and only one rogue thief, seems they ought to be fine to handle it!
Further than that, explaining the basic principles of this soft magic system and how it fits in this JAFF would be my pleasure to do if the author had bothered to explain it even in the barest essentials in the first place, but she doesn't and its a crap shoot to make heads of tails of.
Darcy, Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam all are part of an exclusive society known as 'The Wizarding Court', England's worst kept secret.
They have these ridiculous code names that apparently they don't choose but also they have another set that they can choose, and it's a hot bed of the ridiculous that to me seemed to matter little as the importance of code names and special greetings as a security measure was never tested.
What Tickled my Fancy:
Lizzy’s ability is cleverly bestowed, as she is a character without ornament who is honest and needs not succumb to arts and allurements to charm others. It is perfect that she as one who sketches characters, is also able to discern through illusions and break them, a black hole for spells and tricks.
What Displeased Me:
-Some passages were verbatim original P&P, it is my opinion that JAFF should use original quotes creatively so as to add to the Austen feel of it while not boring the reader with repetition. Indeed, I am most impressed when I find a clever usage of a certain comment in varying context that adds to the story in a fresh way, that is the mark of an excellent writer.
-Darcy's dissing of the Bennet's magical pedigree, or their marriageability (as they are now connected) doesn't make a lick of sense;
A. Mr Bennet, albeit no longer practicing, is well published, respected, and known to have been talented in his hey day,
B. Lizzy herself is in possession of a very rare and powerful magical ability
Thus his insult is incongruous with the entire story!
-Darcy says he is under a magic oath that he physically can't tell Lizzy anything about his magic society but then he reveals all sorts of secrets in a letter and also tells her their secret salutation and his friends code names..?
-Perchance most shocking of all, there is some nonsense mentioned about members of Darcy's Wizard court being discouraged from marriage,
This is Austen! Her books are all about marriage! Not to mention regency society is filled with gentry who need heirs, no one in their right mind would forgo the security of their estates and line to be loyal to Darcy's little magic club! Why was this even mentioned, it doesn't come up again, it just left me utterly bemused!
The author mentions so many random details that never come up again, I hate loose threads!
-Georgiana and Miss Bingley were mentioned to have dark hair, how their hair color affected the plot enough for it to change from canon eludes me.
- Darcy singing jolly was a bit much to his personality. He was unrecognizable at that point.
-There is this mention of a Pixie with 3 riddle that is supposed to be hard, 100 years undefeated, and Darcy defeating its riddles is supposed to be an impressive feat but the riddles are so lame and common, couldn't the author have put some effort into that?
-The Thieving Necromancer as a threat that never came, seriously Darcy is pissing his pants every time the individual is inbound but nothing ever happens, there are literally no stakes! Author should show that there are! Hell, Wickham's banal elopement with Lydia would have been welcomed, so is need of a semblance of villainy or risk was this story in dire need of!
Verdict:
I like the idea of fantasy elements with Pride and prejudice but this fell flat for me; everything was predictable, the magic was ill explained and its limits unknown, and new, random, increasingly far fetched aspects were recklessly thrown in as the story progressed as if in a bid to confuse the reader.
I.e. Faerie blood and portals thorn in the mix, cause why not? Enough confusing aspects were already juggled about whats some more?
The villain was never proven to be a valid threat and there were many loose threads scattered about the story.
The writing was sound, it is the story and it's many holes that do it in. Also lack of chemistry between ODC leaves a bland taste. ODC is the soul and pulse of any work, if you cant make them work, it falls apart.
This tale with its basic plot, uninspired reveals, and very PG vibe felt more in line for a scholastic book fair crowd, and perhaps it ought be more appropriately marketed as such.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Somewhat at beginning with a steady decline
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Yes at the beginning with a steady decline
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Somewhat
Synopsis:
First of all if you are paying attention there is one descriptor for the 'Thieving Necromancer' and it is one hell of a descriptor as it is also applied to a character in 'P&P' and its 'Tall', if you know your stuff it's obvious from the prologue, and it was for me.
“The Necromancer was only the most powerful dark wizard of his generation! And defeated by a member of the Wizarding Court known as the Jester, also a fact that is not commonly known.”
Again if you've read P&P before 'The Jester' can only be applied to one character, there cant be two opinions on that.
'The Necromancer' vs 'The Jester' is practically the same showdown as 'Grinderwald' and 'Dumbledore' had and then 'Voldemort' comes back, in this case 'the Thieving Necromancer'.
He doesn't kill anyone just takes powers from unknown characters like lowly farmers. Everyone is loosing their lids over it but it's not clear to reader why as no characters we know are ever harmed, and there is supposed to be these courts full of powerful magicians and only one rogue thief, seems they ought to be fine to handle it!
Further than that, explaining the basic principles of this soft magic system and how it fits in this JAFF would be my pleasure to do if the author had bothered to explain it even in the barest essentials in the first place, but she doesn't and its a crap shoot to make heads of tails of.
Darcy, Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam all are part of an exclusive society known as 'The Wizarding Court', England's worst kept secret.
They have these ridiculous code names that apparently they don't choose but also they have another set that they can choose, and it's a hot bed of the ridiculous that to me seemed to matter little as the importance of code names and special greetings as a security measure was never tested.
What Tickled my Fancy:
Lizzy’s ability is cleverly bestowed, as she is a character without ornament who is honest and needs not succumb to arts and allurements to charm others. It is perfect that she as one who sketches characters, is also able to discern through illusions and break them, a black hole for spells and tricks.
“Are you aware of the power you possess, Miss Bennet?” Mr Darcy cried, his face suddenly alight. “To be invulnerable to magic! Are there no spells that you are unable to counter?”
“None that I have attempted.”
What Displeased Me:
-Some passages were verbatim original P&P, it is my opinion that JAFF should use original quotes creatively so as to add to the Austen feel of it while not boring the reader with repetition. Indeed, I am most impressed when I find a clever usage of a certain comment in varying context that adds to the story in a fresh way, that is the mark of an excellent writer.
-Darcy's dissing of the Bennet's magical pedigree, or their marriageability (as they are now connected) doesn't make a lick of sense;
“the long history of magical talent associated with my family, and the lack of it in yours.”
A. Mr Bennet, albeit no longer practicing, is well published, respected, and known to have been talented in his hey day,
B. Lizzy herself is in possession of a very rare and powerful magical ability
Thus his insult is incongruous with the entire story!
-Darcy says he is under a magic oath that he physically can't tell Lizzy anything about his magic society but then he reveals all sorts of secrets in a letter and also tells her their secret salutation and his friends code names..?
-Perchance most shocking of all, there is some nonsense mentioned about members of Darcy's Wizard court being discouraged from marriage,
“Court is the first and foremost reason for my discouragement of a match between him and your sister—or, indeed, any lady. Men in our position, in all truthfulness, had best not marry for it is far too dangerous. Bingley was distracted from his work, which must hold priority over all.”
This is Austen! Her books are all about marriage! Not to mention regency society is filled with gentry who need heirs, no one in their right mind would forgo the security of their estates and line to be loyal to Darcy's little magic club! Why was this even mentioned, it doesn't come up again, it just left me utterly bemused!
The author mentions so many random details that never come up again, I hate loose threads!
-Georgiana and Miss Bingley were mentioned to have dark hair, how their hair color affected the plot enough for it to change from canon eludes me.
- Darcy singing jolly was a bit much to his personality. He was unrecognizable at that point.
-There is this mention of a Pixie with 3 riddle that is supposed to be hard, 100 years undefeated, and Darcy defeating its riddles is supposed to be an impressive feat but the riddles are so lame and common, couldn't the author have put some effort into that?
-The Thieving Necromancer as a threat that never came, seriously Darcy is pissing his pants every time the individual is inbound but nothing ever happens, there are literally no stakes! Author should show that there are! Hell, Wickham's banal elopement with Lydia would have been welcomed, so is need of a semblance of villainy or risk was this story in dire need of!
Verdict:
I like the idea of fantasy elements with Pride and prejudice but this fell flat for me; everything was predictable, the magic was ill explained and its limits unknown, and new, random, increasingly far fetched aspects were recklessly thrown in as the story progressed as if in a bid to confuse the reader.
I.e. Faerie blood and portals thorn in the mix, cause why not? Enough confusing aspects were already juggled about whats some more?
The villain was never proven to be a valid threat and there were many loose threads scattered about the story.
The writing was sound, it is the story and it's many holes that do it in. Also lack of chemistry between ODC leaves a bland taste. ODC is the soul and pulse of any work, if you cant make them work, it falls apart.
This tale with its basic plot, uninspired reveals, and very PG vibe felt more in line for a scholastic book fair crowd, and perhaps it ought be more appropriately marketed as such.
I measure the quality of a JAFF by three factors, as follows;
1. Did I feel the characters acted true to Austen's character framework (allowing for changed circumstance and scenario to offer some leeway)?Somewhat at beginning with a steady decline
2. Was I engaged during the reading and not bored?Yes at the beginning with a steady decline
3. Was the writing compelling/ intelligent and was there sufficient interaction/dialogue between the main characters? Somewhat
June 9, 2020
Entertaining
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. The author is clearly a talented writer and storyteller, who knows how to develop her characters and plots. The P&P tale is adapted into the world of wizards and magicians, where almost everyone has some ability, and it's a part of everyday life. There is still social status and balls, but sometimes magical ability levels the playing field.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet in the usual way, but Darcy is a high ranking wizard, and Elizabeth has an unusual power that nobody knows about except her father, Jane, and the Gardiners. There is a threat from a powerful dark wizard that Darcy and his fellow wizards are trying to stop, and Elizabeth eventually gets involved. Darcy discovers her secret power, and Elizabeth becomes an important part of the process. Meanwhile, Darcy is falling in love with Elizabeth, but must overcome her dislike and prove himself.
The story has mystery, suspense, drama, villainy, betrayal, romance, and even faeries. The book kept my interest, but I felt that there was something missing. I didn't feel the chemistry building between Elizabeth and Darcy, since almost every encounter between them was a negative one. Also, a lot of the magical situations were described in a very confusing way. Sometimes things got pretty complicated, more complex than they needed to be, I felt.
However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. The author is clearly a talented writer and storyteller, who knows how to develop her characters and plots. The P&P tale is adapted into the world of wizards and magicians, where almost everyone has some ability, and it's a part of everyday life. There is still social status and balls, but sometimes magical ability levels the playing field.
Darcy and Elizabeth meet in the usual way, but Darcy is a high ranking wizard, and Elizabeth has an unusual power that nobody knows about except her father, Jane, and the Gardiners. There is a threat from a powerful dark wizard that Darcy and his fellow wizards are trying to stop, and Elizabeth eventually gets involved. Darcy discovers her secret power, and Elizabeth becomes an important part of the process. Meanwhile, Darcy is falling in love with Elizabeth, but must overcome her dislike and prove himself.
The story has mystery, suspense, drama, villainy, betrayal, romance, and even faeries. The book kept my interest, but I felt that there was something missing. I didn't feel the chemistry building between Elizabeth and Darcy, since almost every encounter between them was a negative one. Also, a lot of the magical situations were described in a very confusing way. Sometimes things got pretty complicated, more complex than they needed to be, I felt.
However, the book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly.
May 7, 2020
This is a cute story with a unique twist. I don't typically read fantasy / magical books, so I was skeptical at first, but being set against the familiar backdrop of the beloved P&P helped ease me in gently. I appreciated that it stuck close to cannon at the beginning to help keep me grounded while I became familiar with the magical concepts. I did get lost a couple of times when it dove deeper into the mystical (especially the first time Darcy introduced the phrase "Long live the King"...I was so confused) but eventually it all came together and made sense. By the time the story veered away from cannon in the last half, I was settled in and had no problem keeping everything straight.
Even if this is not your typical genre, if you are a fan of JAFF, it's worth the read.
Received an ARC for an honest review. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 because I loved the scene where Mrs. Bennet helps to save the day in the end.
Even if this is not your typical genre, if you are a fan of JAFF, it's worth the read.
Received an ARC for an honest review. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 because I loved the scene where Mrs. Bennet helps to save the day in the end.
June 14, 2020
What a wonderful and fun story!
I am really impressed with this author! This book was exciting, while still staying very close in many ways to the original, when possible. Magic is always an intriguing addition to a P&P variation, but the way it was handled in this story was different than I have ever seen and it is done very well.
I will look forward to reading more from Ms. Pleasants!!
I am really impressed with this author! This book was exciting, while still staying very close in many ways to the original, when possible. Magic is always an intriguing addition to a P&P variation, but the way it was handled in this story was different than I have ever seen and it is done very well.
I will look forward to reading more from Ms. Pleasants!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews