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Magical Regency #1
Power and Prestige: A Fantasy Austen Retelling
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a Mage in possession of a vast fortune and refined magical abilities must be in want of a wife.
Yet High Mage Darkwood of Pemberley has no intention of marriage upon his arrival at Netherfield, especially not to the lowly Miss Cassia Retton. Accustomed to always getting his way, frustration reigns when his magical power against Cassia has no effect.
Cassia Retton puts little stake in inherited magical abilities until she travels to Rosings Park, and everything changes. Perhaps it is the very land she stands on. Or is it the proximity to the awful High Mage Darkwood that brings out...something in her?
When Cassia's family falls to ruin, and she's confronted with the scariest opposition of her life, will Cassia abandon what she's always believed and summon her power within? And if she does, who will stand by her in the end?
If you relish Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or enjoy fantasy novels like Robin McKinley's, this book is for you.
Power and Prestige is Book 1 in the Fantasy Austen Retellings series. Each book in the series is a standalone work and can be read in any order.
Yet High Mage Darkwood of Pemberley has no intention of marriage upon his arrival at Netherfield, especially not to the lowly Miss Cassia Retton. Accustomed to always getting his way, frustration reigns when his magical power against Cassia has no effect.
Cassia Retton puts little stake in inherited magical abilities until she travels to Rosings Park, and everything changes. Perhaps it is the very land she stands on. Or is it the proximity to the awful High Mage Darkwood that brings out...something in her?
When Cassia's family falls to ruin, and she's confronted with the scariest opposition of her life, will Cassia abandon what she's always believed and summon her power within? And if she does, who will stand by her in the end?
If you relish Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or enjoy fantasy novels like Robin McKinley's, this book is for you.
Power and Prestige is Book 1 in the Fantasy Austen Retellings series. Each book in the series is a standalone work and can be read in any order.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2020
74 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Sarah L. McConkie
7 books54 followersSarah L. McConkie started her writing career in the second grade witha thirteen-page magnum opus about dinosaurs. Although the plotline and
penmanship lacked polish, Sarah learned she loved retiring to bed thinking of stories. On a good night, she still does the same thing. She took up the pen several years later after tucking her own little dreamer into bed and now combines modern-life experiences, a robust knowledge of historical hallmarks, and a passion for all things old-fashioned and proper to craft
her historical romances. She co-stars with her own Mr. Right in the real-life romantic comedy she calls life as they raise their five darling children. Sarah believes creating thought-provoking and moral stories promotes literacy in a world that needs more readers. Sarah is a best-selling author and her work has earned both the Swoony Award and the LDSPMA Praiseworthy Award.
Learn more about Sarah at sarahlmcconkie.com, and follow her on social
media.
Facebook: Sarah L McConkie
Instagram: @sarahlmcconkie
penmanship lacked polish, Sarah learned she loved retiring to bed thinking of stories. On a good night, she still does the same thing. She took up the pen several years later after tucking her own little dreamer into bed and now combines modern-life experiences, a robust knowledge of historical hallmarks, and a passion for all things old-fashioned and proper to craft
her historical romances. She co-stars with her own Mr. Right in the real-life romantic comedy she calls life as they raise their five darling children. Sarah believes creating thought-provoking and moral stories promotes literacy in a world that needs more readers. Sarah is a best-selling author and her work has earned both the Swoony Award and the LDSPMA Praiseworthy Award.
Learn more about Sarah at sarahlmcconkie.com, and follow her on social
media.
Facebook: Sarah L McConkie
Instagram: @sarahlmcconkie
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 17, 2021
Magical P&P
Neat twist on P&P, unfortunately the plot was rushed, while framed by frequent "reflections" that were wordy and repetitive, making the story itself seem even more rushed. Would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys magic and Austen's works, though!
Neat twist on P&P, unfortunately the plot was rushed, while framed by frequent "reflections" that were wordy and repetitive, making the story itself seem even more rushed. Would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys magic and Austen's works, though!
October 18, 2020
I gave up reading retellings of this story, until I saw this one:} Magic and dragons:} Have you seen the cover? Awesome. This was well done. I enjoyed it so much. There was a real love story in here and it was good. I loved the addition of the magic, I think it was my favorite part. I loved that this was different but still felt like the story I knew. I'm excited to see what she has done with other Austen novels.
October 13, 2020
This is an excellent Pride and Prejudice retelling with a number of tweaks to the story beyond just the addition of magic. All the names have been changed and the cast of characters pared down. There are only three Retton (Bennet) sisters rather than five: Glynelle (Jane), Cassia (Elizabeth) and Alyria (a slightly altered version of Lydia). Mage Rulan Blythesome (Mr. Bingley) has no family members with him at Netherfield - just High Mage Gaius Darkwood (Mr. Darcy). Magess Degowyn (Lady Catherine) has a somewhat different personality and no daughter to push on her nephew, though she still takes great pride in grandiose displays to impress her guests at Rosings.
Master Retton has magical abilities related to academia, but all his daughters are known to be without any magic and he places no value on others' magical powers. His attitude has influenced Cassia to distrust mages despite their lofted position in society. Hertfordshire itself lacks strong deposits of ley, which draws out and enhances magic in humans, so Darkwood is less than enthusiastic about his friend Blythesome taking an estate there. However, he has traced to the area a powerful magic relic stolen from him, making it convenient for him to visit Netherfield in order to search for it. He goes there accompanied by his cousin, Mage Colonel Phineas Caliazo (Colonel Fitzwilliam).
The characters with magic have different abilities. Darkwood's is persuasiveness - except when he directs it at Cassia, who's maddeningly impervious to his powers. Caliazo's gift involves romance, which is extremely helpful to Cassia at the Netherfield ball.
Parallels to P&P in this alternate universe are really well done. I recognize some elements from other paranormal versions, but this has its own unique features. The characters are nicely developed with a nice bit of romantic chemistry between our hero and heroine, and the plot has enough twists to keep it fresh and unpredictable. There's a particularly wonderful magical confrontation scene that's the turning point of the book.
I'm never happy when a book repeatedly uses "alright," but that's the only significant criticism I have of the writing here.
This is the first in a series of books, each by a different author, apparently injecting magic into other classic Jane Austen novels. I'm hoping they're all as impressive as this one!
Content is clean.
Master Retton has magical abilities related to academia, but all his daughters are known to be without any magic and he places no value on others' magical powers. His attitude has influenced Cassia to distrust mages despite their lofted position in society. Hertfordshire itself lacks strong deposits of ley, which draws out and enhances magic in humans, so Darkwood is less than enthusiastic about his friend Blythesome taking an estate there. However, he has traced to the area a powerful magic relic stolen from him, making it convenient for him to visit Netherfield in order to search for it. He goes there accompanied by his cousin, Mage Colonel Phineas Caliazo (Colonel Fitzwilliam).
The characters with magic have different abilities. Darkwood's is persuasiveness - except when he directs it at Cassia, who's maddeningly impervious to his powers. Caliazo's gift involves romance, which is extremely helpful to Cassia at the Netherfield ball.
Parallels to P&P in this alternate universe are really well done. I recognize some elements from other paranormal versions, but this has its own unique features. The characters are nicely developed with a nice bit of romantic chemistry between our hero and heroine, and the plot has enough twists to keep it fresh and unpredictable. There's a particularly wonderful magical confrontation scene that's the turning point of the book.
I'm never happy when a book repeatedly uses "alright," but that's the only significant criticism I have of the writing here.
This is the first in a series of books, each by a different author, apparently injecting magic into other classic Jane Austen novels. I'm hoping they're all as impressive as this one!
Content is clean.
October 26, 2020
I enjoyed this story. One of the best additions to this variation is a list of who the characters represent from JA's canon. More authors should do this when they decide to use a new list of names in rewriting P&P. And instead of "Mr." it is Mage or High Mage for the important roles such as Mr. Darcy or Mr. Bingley. "Heb" is a non-talented person.
Persons with magic of any level have to present themselves and be certified as such before they are recognized as so talented. Plus there are different levels of power. Magic can be drained from a person when used (or by relics which help another steal some power) and so many try to live near a ley line which increases the power. The powers are not at all similar in this story. Gynelle (Jane) has the power to increase the happiness or to calm a person. Gaius aka Dark has the power to persuade a person to his way of thinking and has increased his wealth using that power in his business dealings. Blythesome (Bingley) is rumored to have the power to create gold! There is a small dragon named Ember (P-Ember-ley) who can communicate with Dark mentally and who alerts him as to signs of Dark's stolen magical relic and/or the need for Dark to intervene when there is trouble.
This story does follow loosely the outline of P&P. However we have no "Bingley' sisters and no "Anne de Bourgh". Lady Catherine is Magess Degowyn and uses her powers in a criminal manner. Collins is Master Clovis and his power is to find and cultivate truffles which he sells and so increases his wealth. The Retton sisters seem to have no powers at first and it is only as the story progresses that there are hints that they do have some powers picked up on, by Dark (Darcy) especially. He is intrigued that his power of persuasion is lost on Cassia (Elizabeth) - especially when he proposes to her. A big hint is given to her and Dark when Magess Degowyn's game with mirrors shows Cassia surrounded by mirrors.
Yes, we have a Wickham character...Lt. Malum and his role is similar to canon's. There is Mage Colonel Phineas Caliazo (Colonel Fitzwilliam) who can detect romantic leanings and his part in the story seems to be as another suitor for Cassia's hand. His cousin, Gaius Darkwood is then jealous.
For me this story ended too quickly. There is a "sequel" of sorts, Ember. However, this story can be read as a stand-alone. Ember: A Fantasy Austen Retelling is by a different author as you can see. I did enjoy this story and recommend it if you also enjoy some magic in your stories at times.
Persons with magic of any level have to present themselves and be certified as such before they are recognized as so talented. Plus there are different levels of power. Magic can be drained from a person when used (or by relics which help another steal some power) and so many try to live near a ley line which increases the power. The powers are not at all similar in this story. Gynelle (Jane) has the power to increase the happiness or to calm a person. Gaius aka Dark has the power to persuade a person to his way of thinking and has increased his wealth using that power in his business dealings. Blythesome (Bingley) is rumored to have the power to create gold! There is a small dragon named Ember (P-Ember-ley) who can communicate with Dark mentally and who alerts him as to signs of Dark's stolen magical relic and/or the need for Dark to intervene when there is trouble.
This story does follow loosely the outline of P&P. However we have no "Bingley' sisters and no "Anne de Bourgh". Lady Catherine is Magess Degowyn and uses her powers in a criminal manner. Collins is Master Clovis and his power is to find and cultivate truffles which he sells and so increases his wealth. The Retton sisters seem to have no powers at first and it is only as the story progresses that there are hints that they do have some powers picked up on, by Dark (Darcy) especially. He is intrigued that his power of persuasion is lost on Cassia (Elizabeth) - especially when he proposes to her. A big hint is given to her and Dark when Magess Degowyn's game with mirrors shows Cassia surrounded by mirrors.
Yes, we have a Wickham character...Lt. Malum and his role is similar to canon's. There is Mage Colonel Phineas Caliazo (Colonel Fitzwilliam) who can detect romantic leanings and his part in the story seems to be as another suitor for Cassia's hand. His cousin, Gaius Darkwood is then jealous.
For me this story ended too quickly. There is a "sequel" of sorts, Ember. However, this story can be read as a stand-alone. Ember: A Fantasy Austen Retelling is by a different author as you can see. I did enjoy this story and recommend it if you also enjoy some magic in your stories at times.
April 10, 2021
This story has good intentions, but needed more time to flesh out the writing in order to be great. I believe it's mostly because the author is new to writing and hasn't quite exercised her best writing chops yet. She has them, they just need to get out in the book.
As usual, I won't write a synopsis, instead I'll analyze the technical merits of the writing.
The magic was well thought out, and much better than in other JAFF fantasy novels. Some experienced JAFF novelists seem to think that they can just throw a book out there with a few spells of the same ilk and call it a JAFF fantasy and win readers. Well, those readers are getting short shrift in comparison to a "real" fantasy novel like this one. This novel is full of a plethora of types of magic and thus, gives unique conflict and drama. In this book, magic is like a character.
That's good because the other characterizations were a bit weak. They didn't even show themselves well as Austen's canon characters. But worse, the author felt that for some reason, she had to change the names from Austen's, meaning the reader felt like they must learn the characters all over again. Bad on both grounds. We didn't get the strong feeling of each character as their own person and we had to keep sorting out who was whom with these new names. Those names were inconsistently used, e.g., the Darcy character was Gaius, Dark, Darkwood, and Lord Mage Darkwood, with no good reason for some of the changes. This is one example of the gap between the quality of writing in this book and what would be expected for an excellent Regency romance.
The story, which used a lot of Jane Austen and a few of Deborah Moggach's concepts was a bit rushed, so the reader sometimes felt as if they missed something when it never really happened at all. Good action took place throughout, however, and but the balance of narrative and dialogue was a bit heavy on the side of dialogue. The introspection, where it occurred, was good. It just didn't save the story. However, the development of the romance was reasonable, since the author showed us what Austen did not.
At times there were some wonderful descriptions including visuals and smells, but these were few and far between. This author has shown us she has the chops, she just needs to take her time and fill out the scene-setting in the whole book.
Filter words were used, indicative of an penchant for a "telling" style of writing. This is common for a new writer. Change that "felt" to "to be" phrasing and you're deeper into your reader's head.
There were uses of American and non-Regency words that pull the reader out of the magic of the moment, as well as 11 contractions. These are very few compared to the average JAFF novel. Non-Regency words included normal/normally, okay, bun, and assess. Americanisms were "write" rather than "write to" a person, and gotten. The author frequently used "himself" or "herself" where him or her would suffice. The "self" words are typically only used after their matching pronoun.
The cover is not as eye-catching as one would expect for a juicy fantasy novel based on Pride an Prejudice. The silhouettes are used on other authors' novels. The woods and dragon are unique, telling something about this book, but they're too small. The colours are smashing, though.
Even with these criticisms, I enjoyed this novel quite a lot. The imaginative use of various unusual kinds of magic and the dragon's input into the canon story line was a unique application in JAFF, with more and better action and drama than in other fantasies I've read. It's a lovely version of P&P as a fantasy that should turn heads and win loyal readers of this new author.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author and because of this, some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write my reviews for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
As usual, I won't write a synopsis, instead I'll analyze the technical merits of the writing.
The magic was well thought out, and much better than in other JAFF fantasy novels. Some experienced JAFF novelists seem to think that they can just throw a book out there with a few spells of the same ilk and call it a JAFF fantasy and win readers. Well, those readers are getting short shrift in comparison to a "real" fantasy novel like this one. This novel is full of a plethora of types of magic and thus, gives unique conflict and drama. In this book, magic is like a character.
That's good because the other characterizations were a bit weak. They didn't even show themselves well as Austen's canon characters. But worse, the author felt that for some reason, she had to change the names from Austen's, meaning the reader felt like they must learn the characters all over again. Bad on both grounds. We didn't get the strong feeling of each character as their own person and we had to keep sorting out who was whom with these new names. Those names were inconsistently used, e.g., the Darcy character was Gaius, Dark, Darkwood, and Lord Mage Darkwood, with no good reason for some of the changes. This is one example of the gap between the quality of writing in this book and what would be expected for an excellent Regency romance.
The story, which used a lot of Jane Austen and a few of Deborah Moggach's concepts was a bit rushed, so the reader sometimes felt as if they missed something when it never really happened at all. Good action took place throughout, however, and but the balance of narrative and dialogue was a bit heavy on the side of dialogue. The introspection, where it occurred, was good. It just didn't save the story. However, the development of the romance was reasonable, since the author showed us what Austen did not.
At times there were some wonderful descriptions including visuals and smells, but these were few and far between. This author has shown us she has the chops, she just needs to take her time and fill out the scene-setting in the whole book.
Filter words were used, indicative of an penchant for a "telling" style of writing. This is common for a new writer. Change that "felt" to "to be" phrasing and you're deeper into your reader's head.
There were uses of American and non-Regency words that pull the reader out of the magic of the moment, as well as 11 contractions. These are very few compared to the average JAFF novel. Non-Regency words included normal/normally, okay, bun, and assess. Americanisms were "write" rather than "write to" a person, and gotten. The author frequently used "himself" or "herself" where him or her would suffice. The "self" words are typically only used after their matching pronoun.
The cover is not as eye-catching as one would expect for a juicy fantasy novel based on Pride an Prejudice. The silhouettes are used on other authors' novels. The woods and dragon are unique, telling something about this book, but they're too small. The colours are smashing, though.
Even with these criticisms, I enjoyed this novel quite a lot. The imaginative use of various unusual kinds of magic and the dragon's input into the canon story line was a unique application in JAFF, with more and better action and drama than in other fantasies I've read. It's a lovely version of P&P as a fantasy that should turn heads and win loyal readers of this new author.
Disclaimer: I am a JAFF author and because of this, some might say this review is a conflict of interest. However, I was a reader first, and my reviews are honest and impartial. I write my reviews for the benefit of both the reader and the author.
November 24, 2020
This is a magical retelling of Pride and Prejudice - its cleverly done. Much of the story is the same but many of the characters have magical powers. Unusually all of the characters have different names - Darcy is High Mage Darkwood which I think really suits him. It was a bit Harry Potterish in places... we suspect from the start Elizabeth has some magical ability but when she finds out for sure it reminded of the moment Harry Potter finds out he's a wizard!! Its good fun with lots of different magical abilities. The only disappointment I had was the end. It was a bit quick and contrived... I was hoping for something magical! Overall, it kept me entertained and I enjoyed reading this.
March 1, 2021
Between 3 and 4 stars, so I'll round up.
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I really enjoy magical Pride and Prejudice retellings, so this was right up my alley.
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I struggled at first with the names, but eventually settled into them. I really missed Kitty and Mary in this story, though.
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I always love a retelling that involves more of Colonel Fitzwilliam than the original, so I was happy with his storyline in this.
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I'll happily read more from this author!
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I really enjoy magical Pride and Prejudice retellings, so this was right up my alley.
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I struggled at first with the names, but eventually settled into them. I really missed Kitty and Mary in this story, though.
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I always love a retelling that involves more of Colonel Fitzwilliam than the original, so I was happy with his storyline in this.
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I'll happily read more from this author!
September 9, 2020
A fascinating retelling!
I was incredibly intrigued by the idea of Pride and Prejudice with magic. I love a good retelling and this one is super fun! I do wish that the "final showdown" had been a little longer, a little more detailed but otherwise, this is a wonderful story with some exciting new twists!
I was incredibly intrigued by the idea of Pride and Prejudice with magic. I love a good retelling and this one is super fun! I do wish that the "final showdown" had been a little longer, a little more detailed but otherwise, this is a wonderful story with some exciting new twists!
October 21, 2020
3.5-3.75
September 4, 2024
All the yes! Will definitely be continuing this series!
October 1, 2020
Power & Prestige by Sarah L. McConkie was fantastic! Honestly I’m not sure I’ve ever read a book with dragons or magic (go ahead and gasp if you enjoy that!). My son LOVES magic/fantasy books, but me not so much. BUT this might have changed my view quite a bit! I was hesitant and mostly curious on this series that are retellings of Jane Austen’s books. I was pleasantly surprised! I loved it and now wanting to read all the others as they come out!
It took me a while to catch on to the new names of the original Pride and Prejudice characters, but the handy dandy list in the front of the book helped!
This book is an exciting retelling of Pride and Prejudice with a mix in of magic and dragons!
It took me a while to catch on to the new names of the original Pride and Prejudice characters, but the handy dandy list in the front of the book helped!
This book is an exciting retelling of Pride and Prejudice with a mix in of magic and dragons!
September 26, 2020
Such an enjoyable read from author Sarah L. McConkie. This fantasy retelling of Pride and Prejudice streamlined the original story in all the right places and added exciting twists and turns with a dash of magic. I couldn't put it down! The ending of this story had me thinking that this is how the original should have ended too! Highly recommend.
October 11, 2021
Entertaining
Two and a half stars rounded up to three. Kudos to the author for an interesting premise and some original ideas. This is P&P, but for some reason the author has decided that the names from the original didn't suit her purpose, although I don't know why. Some of the new names are purely amusing, like Gaius Darkwood, and Phineas Caliazo. But others are pretty ordinary, like Cassia Retton. Mr Retton (Bennett) has magic, but has decided that he doesn't want his daughters to depend on magic, so has never told them that they might have it. Darkwood (Darcy) is a powerful mage, as is Blythesome (Bingley), and they come into the neighborhood in the same way as in the original P&P, including the Meryton assembly and the infamous insult. Darkwood has an agenda for his visit, namely the recovery of a lost "relic" that is very old, powerful, and valuable. With the help of his dragon, Ember, he's trying to track it down.
The best thing about this book is that dragon. Ember is a memorable new character, and very engaging. Darkwood is not a nice character, not only for his perpetually grouchy demeanor, but we also learn that he's been using his magic for purely selfish reasons. He has powers of persuasion, and has amassed his fortune by using it in business. His powers have no effect on Cassia (Elizabeth), which is a clue to her eventually discovered hidden talent.
I wanted to like this book, having read other P&P variations about magic and dragons that were very good. However, the style of writing here is kind of juvenile. It's as if the author has great ideas in her head, and in her haste to get them on paper, just forgot to explain them fully, or in a way that makes sense. Some of the dialogue, and some of the text, is disjointed, and there's a lot of poor sentence structure and bad grammar. There was no effort to use Regency era ways of speaking, and a lot of modern day words and idioms that just felt wrong in this setting.
Then there's the romance, or lack thereof. Unfortunately, Darkwood is such a curmudgeon that I never quite feel the chemistry between him and Cassia. He does soften up marginally, but Cassia is conflicted right up until the end about whether she should like Darkwood, or go for the more sunny and engaging Phineas Caliazo (Colonel Fitzwilliam). It's almost spelled out in the story that the things that convince Cassia to choose Darkwood are Ember, his wonderful dragon, and Pemberly, his beautiful home.
The story ends rather abruptly without an epilogue. There are some loose ends that could have been dealt with, such as Clovis (Collins), Magess Degowyn (Lady Catherine), and the romance of Gynelle (Jane) and Blythesome.
I noticed that the next book in this series is called "Ember", and I was hoping it was going to be about the Dragon in this story. But, alas, it's not. Although this is a cute idea for a story, the execution is a little shaky. I recommend it half heartedly as a good idea, but don't expect any great literature here.
Two and a half stars rounded up to three. Kudos to the author for an interesting premise and some original ideas. This is P&P, but for some reason the author has decided that the names from the original didn't suit her purpose, although I don't know why. Some of the new names are purely amusing, like Gaius Darkwood, and Phineas Caliazo. But others are pretty ordinary, like Cassia Retton. Mr Retton (Bennett) has magic, but has decided that he doesn't want his daughters to depend on magic, so has never told them that they might have it. Darkwood (Darcy) is a powerful mage, as is Blythesome (Bingley), and they come into the neighborhood in the same way as in the original P&P, including the Meryton assembly and the infamous insult. Darkwood has an agenda for his visit, namely the recovery of a lost "relic" that is very old, powerful, and valuable. With the help of his dragon, Ember, he's trying to track it down.
The best thing about this book is that dragon. Ember is a memorable new character, and very engaging. Darkwood is not a nice character, not only for his perpetually grouchy demeanor, but we also learn that he's been using his magic for purely selfish reasons. He has powers of persuasion, and has amassed his fortune by using it in business. His powers have no effect on Cassia (Elizabeth), which is a clue to her eventually discovered hidden talent.
I wanted to like this book, having read other P&P variations about magic and dragons that were very good. However, the style of writing here is kind of juvenile. It's as if the author has great ideas in her head, and in her haste to get them on paper, just forgot to explain them fully, or in a way that makes sense. Some of the dialogue, and some of the text, is disjointed, and there's a lot of poor sentence structure and bad grammar. There was no effort to use Regency era ways of speaking, and a lot of modern day words and idioms that just felt wrong in this setting.
Then there's the romance, or lack thereof. Unfortunately, Darkwood is such a curmudgeon that I never quite feel the chemistry between him and Cassia. He does soften up marginally, but Cassia is conflicted right up until the end about whether she should like Darkwood, or go for the more sunny and engaging Phineas Caliazo (Colonel Fitzwilliam). It's almost spelled out in the story that the things that convince Cassia to choose Darkwood are Ember, his wonderful dragon, and Pemberly, his beautiful home.
The story ends rather abruptly without an epilogue. There are some loose ends that could have been dealt with, such as Clovis (Collins), Magess Degowyn (Lady Catherine), and the romance of Gynelle (Jane) and Blythesome.
I noticed that the next book in this series is called "Ember", and I was hoping it was going to be about the Dragon in this story. But, alas, it's not. Although this is a cute idea for a story, the execution is a little shaky. I recommend it half heartedly as a good idea, but don't expect any great literature here.
January 16, 2021
This book both was and was not in my usual style of books that I like to read. I am a sucker for retellings, especially of Jane Austen books. This one is based on Pride and Prejudice, which is one of my favorites. On the other hand, this book was very heavy on the fantasy elements with mages and magic and mythical creatures. I'll admit I honestly wasn't sure how I was going to feel about it. But I kept seeing it on social media and saw it was on Kindle Unlimited. So I thought you know what, I'll go for it. When I started, I felt like I might not end up finishing because I don't read much fantasy, but I'll say I kept reading and highly enjoyed it.
This story had all the important elements of Pride and Prejudice that really helped make it recognizable as that story. There were many of the same scenes (albeit sometimes altered to make space for the magic elements) and the characters read very similar (at the core) to how Austen wrote them. I'm glad I gave it a chance. In fact, I'm reading more in the series now.
This story had all the important elements of Pride and Prejudice that really helped make it recognizable as that story. There were many of the same scenes (albeit sometimes altered to make space for the magic elements) and the characters read very similar (at the core) to how Austen wrote them. I'm glad I gave it a chance. In fact, I'm reading more in the series now.
March 1, 2021
I wanted to love this book, but didn't. It just fell flat as an austen retelling. Its really odd to me that she changed the names of literally every single character (and not to something that made it easy to keep track of, such as when Elizabeth Bennet becomes Ellie Benson. No, Elizabeth Bennet has to become Cassia Reton, Darcy is Darkwood (or the high mage, or sometimes randomly goes by his first name) I had a hard time keeping the characters straight. And she made her people say "um" all the time! It just rubbed me wrong. Luckily, I already had the second book (written by someone different) or I wouldn't have finished the series. And the others were all MUCH better than this one. (although making Emma's name Ember, just like the amazing dragon in this book was also a confusing choice in my opinion.)
December 2, 2020
This was probably the most unique P&P adaptation I have ever read. I enjoyed the story, especially once I got used to the name changes. The original major plot points were there but the magic added an extra element of fun!
All in all, an enjoyable read and I am intrigued enough that I want to read the rest of the series!
All in all, an enjoyable read and I am intrigued enough that I want to read the rest of the series!
June 11, 2021
Ако сте започнали читателската си кариера някъде в началото на средното училище, когато романтичната ви душа, която естествено пише бели стихове и слуша тъжни песни на вечен лууп, и някак се чувства по-висша от съучениците, интересуващи се от чалга, пиене и промискуитет, се среща с краткото, но запомнящо се творчество на Джейн Остин и сестрите Бронте, е имало два пътя пред вас. По единият ставате болезнено чувствителен интроверт, който има съвсем малко приятели, дето го смятат за особен, но симпатичен човек, с много необосновано високо летящи мечти и очаквания към другите, несъвместими с датата на календара, които естествено водят до много тъжни, но винаги образователни за човешката природа моменти. По другият ви чака същото, но някое другарче ви пъха в ръцете нещо на Толкин, Джордан или Мартин, изсъсквайки Моля ти се, прочети нещо свястно, и към всичко останало придобивате и нърдска база данни за целият фентъзиен фендъм.
Времето минава, ставате нормален възрастен, забравяте за стихоплетството и реенето в необятни висини, защото откривате, че много ви харесва да не сте гладен и да имате ток вкъщи, за каквито благини се работи нещо обичайно много банално и невдъхновяващо. Докато един хубав ден не виждате, че ваши сродни души са намерили средния път – написали са поредица от преразкази на романите на великата Джейн, само че с много магия, дракони и призраци на всеки ъгъл, които да светят на опитващите се да изживеят епитомът на романтиката викториански двойки. Това не е първият опит на остинизиране с добавен фентъзи, фантастичен или хорър елемент. Изключително неоценените поне на български опити на добавяне на зомбита, вампири и морски чудовища имаха един основен недостатък – романтичните души, които ги влече най-вече към Остин и Бронте трудно приемат любимите им образи да ги разкъсва някое свръхестествено същество.
Но какво ако вземете сюжетите, главните персонажи и локациите, намалите или увеличете броя на второстепенните герои, промените имената, може би и външния им вид и някои специални характеристики, отрежете някои дразнещи елементи или излишни разтакавания, и най-вече – добавите магия? Получавате невероятната поредица от фентъзийни преразкази на книгите на Джейн Остин, от група напълно непознати, но изключително талантливи авторки. Тук не говорим за директно преписване на романите, а вземане на основата, и украсяването ѝ до магична прелест с нови сюжетни линии, допълващи класиката по елегантно-стоплящ начин, споделящ вълнуващи романтични приключения в един свят, в който героите от различните книги всъщност се познават, и говорят един за друг. Очарователно, светло и топло – приказка за възрастни и романтична елегия ръка за ръка, за онези дни, в които вярата ни в човечеството е дълбоко в калта. За всеки джейнист с книга в чантата 🙂
Времето минава, ставате нормален възрастен, забравяте за стихоплетството и реенето в необятни висини, защото откривате, че много ви харесва да не сте гладен и да имате ток вкъщи, за каквито благини се работи нещо обичайно много банално и невдъхновяващо. Докато един хубав ден не виждате, че ваши сродни души са намерили средния път – написали са поредица от преразкази на романите на великата Джейн, само че с много магия, дракони и призраци на всеки ъгъл, които да светят на опитващите се да изживеят епитомът на романтиката викториански двойки. Това не е първият опит на остинизиране с добавен фентъзи, фантастичен или хорър елемент. Изключително неоценените поне на български опити на добавяне на зомбита, вампири и морски чудовища имаха един основен недостатък – романтичните души, които ги влече най-вече към Остин и Бронте трудно приемат любимите им образи да ги разкъсва някое свръхестествено същество.
Но какво ако вземете сюжетите, главните персонажи и локациите, намалите или увеличете броя на второстепенните герои, промените имената, може би и външния им вид и някои специални характеристики, отрежете някои дразнещи елементи или излишни разтакавания, и най-вече – добавите магия? Получавате невероятната поредица от фентъзийни преразкази на книгите на Джейн Остин, от група напълно непознати, но изключително талантливи авторки. Тук не говорим за директно преписване на романите, а вземане на основата, и украсяването ѝ до магична прелест с нови сюжетни линии, допълващи класиката по елегантно-стоплящ начин, споделящ вълнуващи романтични приключения в един свят, в който героите от различните книги всъщност се познават, и говорят един за друг. Очарователно, светло и топло – приказка за възрастни и романтична елегия ръка за ръка, за онези дни, в които вярата ни в човечеството е дълбоко в калта. За всеки джейнист с книга в чантата 🙂
February 18, 2024
This had such potential! Romance and magic retelling of Pride and Prejudice
The book was rushed and was more telling than showing.
Why change all the character names? I had a hard time deciphering who was who and couldn't pronounce Gaius Darkwood (Darcy's name) or Phineas Caliazo (Colonel's name.)
Why have a dragon and include only 1 tiny action scene at the end. The dragon was used as a chaperone and a mail carrier to deliver letters. I realize this was a romance but I was so excited for the fantasy/romance mashup but it didn't really happen.
Please have beta readers that aren't family/friends.
The book was rushed and was more telling than showing.
Why change all the character names? I had a hard time deciphering who was who and couldn't pronounce Gaius Darkwood (Darcy's name) or Phineas Caliazo (Colonel's name.)
Why have a dragon and include only 1 tiny action scene at the end. The dragon was used as a chaperone and a mail carrier to deliver letters. I realize this was a romance but I was so excited for the fantasy/romance mashup but it didn't really happen.
Please have beta readers that aren't family/friends.
February 28, 2021
Interesting plot
This was an interesting fantasy take on Pride and Prejudice but I found myself exceptionally confused as to why all the P&P characters needed to be renamed. At first I thought calling Darcy “Darkwood” in this novel would be for a reason explained as the story progressed, but I could see no rhyme or reason for the confusing renaming of familiar characters. I felt the fantasy world building was well done and the reader quickly understood the parameters of this magical world, but the renaming remained distracting and arbitrary.
This was an interesting fantasy take on Pride and Prejudice but I found myself exceptionally confused as to why all the P&P characters needed to be renamed. At first I thought calling Darcy “Darkwood” in this novel would be for a reason explained as the story progressed, but I could see no rhyme or reason for the confusing renaming of familiar characters. I felt the fantasy world building was well done and the reader quickly understood the parameters of this magical world, but the renaming remained distracting and arbitrary.
March 29, 2023
Interesting variation
Initially, very awkward to read since the author changed all our favorite characters' names. Once you get past that issue, the storyline in unique. She did omit a number of players and explained more in the telling fashion as opposed to showing through dialogue. She also has little knowledge of Regency behavior allowing correspondence between unrelated/ non-betrothed ladies and gentlemen, a definite no-no. More depth and detail could have been employed to make a richer, more rewarding story exploring the lead characters too.
Initially, very awkward to read since the author changed all our favorite characters' names. Once you get past that issue, the storyline in unique. She did omit a number of players and explained more in the telling fashion as opposed to showing through dialogue. She also has little knowledge of Regency behavior allowing correspondence between unrelated/ non-betrothed ladies and gentlemen, a definite no-no. More depth and detail could have been employed to make a richer, more rewarding story exploring the lead characters too.
July 29, 2025
I wanted to like Power and Prestige, but I just couldn’t. The author blended her own writing with Austen’s, and it didn’t work for me. It felt disjointed, and honestly, like a bit of a lazy choice. Isn’t the whole point of a retelling to make the story your own? Yes, there was magic, but it wasn’t meaningfully integrated—it felt more like an afterthought.
I get that writing Austen retellings is difficult; the expectations are incredibly high. So maybe I’m just too particular. But this one missed the mark for me.
I get that writing Austen retellings is difficult; the expectations are incredibly high. So maybe I’m just too particular. But this one missed the mark for me.
September 23, 2020
Fun magic filled retelling
I loved the twist of magical abilities on Pride and Prejudice! Status by magical ability was really interesting. I liked that Cassia wasn't affected by others abilities and how that worked with each of them. Lots of fun twists on the story i didn't want it to end!
I loved the twist of magical abilities on Pride and Prejudice! Status by magical ability was really interesting. I liked that Cassia wasn't affected by others abilities and how that worked with each of them. Lots of fun twists on the story i didn't want it to end!
November 14, 2020
I read a lot! of p&p variations and quite enjoyed this one 3.5*. Sticks fairly close to canon with magic added. The angst is there but a little lighter than the original. And i learned a new word tantivy 😊
Why not a higher rating? Well the author renamed everyone and i wasn't sure why. Mentally i was switching everyone back Cassia ahh Elizabeth, Rettens ahh Bennetts , etc
Why not a higher rating? Well the author renamed everyone and i wasn't sure why. Mentally i was switching everyone back Cassia ahh Elizabeth, Rettens ahh Bennetts , etc
January 10, 2021
This was a fine retelling of Pride and Prejudice and the magic was a great touch but some of it just seemed like an edited version of Pride and Prejudice. The timeline, dialogue, and locations are the same as in the original which made it seem less of an original work and more of just another copy of Austen’s work. Contains: mild violence and kisses
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January 21, 2021Gave this another try and it's just really not for me. Lots of choices made that just didn't work for me. I might have liked it better if they had completely divorced it from Pride and Prejudice and made it it's own story. I have heard this was the best of the series and so won't be giving any of them a read.
September 25, 2020
As a fan of Jane Austen this retelling is a great fun fast read. I love what magic adds to the story we all know and love and doesn't detract from it. But my favorite thing was how the characters who were not so nice get what was coming to them!
November 28, 2020
I did not like this as much as I was hoping to. I love fantasy and Pride and Prejudice so I was hoping mixing them together would be amazing. It wasn’t what I expected. I enjoyed the story even though it took a few chapters for me to get into it, but it fell short of my expectations.
January 31, 2021
What a fun read!
This was my first book by Sarah McConkie and I absolutely loved it. She did a wonderful job bringing fantasy and magic to the world of Pride and Prejudice. It hooked me from the first chapter. I look forward to reading more of her work!
This was my first book by Sarah McConkie and I absolutely loved it. She did a wonderful job bringing fantasy and magic to the world of Pride and Prejudice. It hooked me from the first chapter. I look forward to reading more of her work!
June 21, 2024
As much as I love Pride and Prejudice, this retelling just didn't work for me. The original story and the magical setting felt forced together and the author's choices just didn't mix well with the characters or add anything positive to the original plot.
October 19, 2024
I wish the author had kept the Pride and Prejudice character names or at least made only slight changes to the names. I had a hard time keeping track of everyone. The magic was a fun add to Austen's book.
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