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The Harwood Spellbook #2
Thornbound
Cassandra Harwood scandalized her nation when she became the first woman magician in Angland. Now, she's ready to teach a whole new generation of bright young women at her radical new school, the Thornfell College of Magic . . . Until a sinister fey altar is discovered in the school library, the ruling Boudiccate sends a delegation to shut down Thornfell, and Cassandra's own husband is torn away from her. As malevolent vines slither in from the forest and ruthless politicians scheme against her, Cassandra must fight the greatest battle of her life to save her love, her school, and the future of the young women of Angland.
7 pages, Audio CD
First published February 14, 2019
72 people are currently reading
776 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Burgis
80 books1,387 followersI grew up in America, but now I live in Wales with my husband, fellow writer Patrick Samphire, our two sons, and our sweet (and extremely vocal) tabby cat, Pebbles. I write fantasy rom-coms for adults (most recently Claws and Contrivances and Good Neighbors) and fun MG fantasy adventure novels, too (most recently The Raven Crown duology). My next series will be the adult romantasy trilogy The Queens of Villainy, published by Tor Bramble, starting in 2025 with Wooing the Witch Queen.
To get early sneak peeks at new stories and novels, sign up for my newsletter here: stephanieburgis.com/newsletter.
To join my Dragons' Book Club and get early copies of every ebook that I put out myself (so, all of my novellas, short story ebooks, etc!), check out my Patreon page, where I also published a series of fantasy rom-coms (Good Neighbors) across 2020-2021.
I only rate and review the books that I like, which is why all of my ratings are 4 or 5 stars.
To get early sneak peeks at new stories and novels, sign up for my newsletter here: stephanieburgis.com/newsletter.
To join my Dragons' Book Club and get early copies of every ebook that I put out myself (so, all of my novellas, short story ebooks, etc!), check out my Patreon page, where I also published a series of fantasy rom-coms (Good Neighbors) across 2020-2021.
I only rate and review the books that I like, which is why all of my ratings are 4 or 5 stars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
April 15, 2019
Final review, first posted on Fantasy Literature:
For over seventeen hundred and fifty years, ever since the great Boudicca herself had sent the Romans fleeing Angland with the help of her second husband’s magery, a clearly defined line had been drawn in the public arena, never to be broken. The hard-headed ladies of Angland saw to the practicalities of rule whilst the more mystical and emotional gentlemen dealt with magic.In this magical, alternative-history version of England, called Angland, traditional roles are genderbent: the women handle politics and rule the country, while men are the magicians. For many years Cassandra Harwood was the only female magician in Angland, a single exception to a fixed tradition that many in power regret having allowed. Cassandra is still kicking against the rules of society, even though she can no longer exercise her magical powers due to a deeply regretted choice in her past. But Cassandra recovered from her disappointment at her loss of magic and, following the maxim that “those who cannot do, teach,” she is now scandalizing society in a brand new way by setting up a College of Magic for young women at her ancestral home, Thornfell. Even if she’s teaching most of the classes herself and only has nine students, she feels strongly about giving magically-gifted young women the chance to exercise their talents.
But nothing’s ever simple for Cassandra: her newlywed husband, Rajaram Wrexham, was pulled away from her the morning of the day they were married five weeks ago by his job, handling magical crises all over the country for the women’s ruling council, the Boudiccate, and hasn’t been permitted to come home since. The Boudiccate has also sent a hostile delegation to inspect her new magical college, with the power to shut it down. And now someone is at Thornfell is tapping into sinister powers, leaving behind evidence of a dangerous blood bargain with a fey that could prove disastrous for everyone at Thornfell.
Thornbound is on the lighter side of Regency fantasy, but it has an amusing mystery plot (even if the villain isn’t too hard to suss out) and enjoyable characters. In fact, I liked this even better than the first book in this series, Snowspelled (having the second book in a series not be a letdown is always cause for cheering.) Along with Cassandra, Wrexham and a few other familiar characters from Snowspelled, we meet some appealing young women in the first class of female magicians ― it’s great to see them begin to learn how to use their magical powers ― and a half-fey housekeeper whom one had best not offend. Some characters develop unexpected new facets to their personalities. I liked the way Cassandra, a strong, fiercely independent woman, learns to rely on both family and friends around her to solve problems, rather than trying to handle everything herself.
The genderbent roles, which struck me as interesting but a bit gimmicky in Snowspelled, play out in some really interesting ways here. One of the politician women who is inspecting the Thornfell College of Magic tries to convince Cassandra to close her school by pointing out how, if women are allowed to practice magic, men will then start to demand the right to political roles … and that could eventually result in the men taking over the rule of Angland. It’s an entirely understandable fear! More amusing is this society’s solicitude for the reputation of unmarried gentlemen. Cassandra straight-facedly tells one man:
Given the circumstances, I’m sure no one will question your virtue if you choose to stay in Thornfell with the rest of us tonight. We’ll find you a room well away from any ladies, with a door that locks firmly from the inside.While he appreciates others’ concerns, he bravely carries on (“With a married gentleman in residence, my reputation should be safe enough”).
Thornbound is a light, quick read, but Stephanie Burgis tucks a few significant social points into its plot along with the mystery and gender role humor. If you like light Regency fantasy, the HARWOOD SPELLBOOK series is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this ebook for review from the author. Thank you!
Art credit: Troubles by Aquasixio
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March 8, 2019Hooray! Thornbound is out now. You can find it at Amazon, Kobo, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble and iBooks.
Here's a snippet from the end of Chapter One, just for fun!
***
At the other end of the house, the great bell sounded, vibrating through the walls.
I lifted my chin, suppressing the panic that wanted to choke me, and I gave my sister-in-law my most confident smile. “Well, then,” I said, “let us go and welcome our first arrivals to Thornfell College of Magic."
Here's a snippet from the end of Chapter One, just for fun!
***
At the other end of the house, the great bell sounded, vibrating through the walls.
I lifted my chin, suppressing the panic that wanted to choke me, and I gave my sister-in-law my most confident smile. “Well, then,” I said, “let us go and welcome our first arrivals to Thornfell College of Magic."
March 5, 2020
This is the second book in the series with Cassandra Harwood as the main character. After the events of Snowspelled Cassandra has found a new purpose in life: to teach the magic that she can no longer use to the young women of Angland who want to learn.
But her defiance of the ruling Boudiccate in setting up the Thornfell College of Magic has consequences for her new husband and for her family. And the Boudiccate isn't finished trying to shut her down, including a surprise inspection by a group whose minds seem to have been made up before they even arrive. To make things worse, Boudiccate inspectors seem to be the lesser of the threats to the school and its new students, with an unknown fae magic threat also evident.
As in the previous book, Cassandra's principle character flaw is that she takes everything onto her own head, and there's frankly too much going on here for her to do so. She not only needs to learn to accept help from others but to reach out for it in the first place, all of which is difficult for someone who was one of the two foremost magic users of the age. What makes it such a good novel is that nearly everyone that she could reach out to here is delightful, from her family and husband, to her students and even to her staff. And the resolution to the magical mystery is pretty great too.
But her defiance of the ruling Boudiccate in setting up the Thornfell College of Magic has consequences for her new husband and for her family. And the Boudiccate isn't finished trying to shut her down, including a surprise inspection by a group whose minds seem to have been made up before they even arrive. To make things worse, Boudiccate inspectors seem to be the lesser of the threats to the school and its new students, with an unknown fae magic threat also evident.
As in the previous book, Cassandra's principle character flaw is that she takes everything onto her own head, and there's frankly too much going on here for her to do so. She not only needs to learn to accept help from others but to reach out for it in the first place, all of which is difficult for someone who was one of the two foremost magic users of the age. What makes it such a good novel is that nearly everyone that she could reach out to here is delightful, from her family and husband, to her students and even to her staff. And the resolution to the magical mystery is pretty great too.
February 15, 2020
Thornbound is the second in The Harwood Spellbook Series and it continues shortly after Snowspelled.
Cassandra Harwood has found a new purpose in life and has started the Thornfell College of Magic to educate the first generation of female magicians. This radical move against the establishment meets with a lot of resistance from the Boudiccate. Her new husband Wrexham is absent, sent on a perpetual goose chase by The Great Library. A dark fea curse upsets the house and a committee sent to watch Cassandra’s every move is intent on letting her fail.
But then they don’t know Ms. Harwood very well, do they?
I liked part two. There was another light mystery to solve, dark fae magic, the return of an old nemesis. I am looking forward to read Moontangled, where my lesbian gals Ms Banks and Ms Fennell finally get their own adventure (yay!)
m/f off screen
Themes: malevolent vines creep everywhere, don’t go amongst the bluebells, a dark fea curse, old friendships turn cold, a scorned fae is a deadly enemy, theme: working together is better than going at it alone.
4 stars
Cassandra Harwood has found a new purpose in life and has started the Thornfell College of Magic to educate the first generation of female magicians. This radical move against the establishment meets with a lot of resistance from the Boudiccate. Her new husband Wrexham is absent, sent on a perpetual goose chase by The Great Library. A dark fea curse upsets the house and a committee sent to watch Cassandra’s every move is intent on letting her fail.
But then they don’t know Ms. Harwood very well, do they?
I liked part two. There was another light mystery to solve, dark fae magic, the return of an old nemesis. I am looking forward to read Moontangled, where my lesbian gals Ms Banks and Ms Fennell finally get their own adventure (yay!)
m/f off screen
Themes: malevolent vines creep everywhere, don’t go amongst the bluebells, a dark fea curse, old friendships turn cold, a scorned fae is a deadly enemy, theme: working together is better than going at it alone.
4 stars
February 6, 2020
Cassandra is about to open her school of magic for women, and naturally the Boudiccate, in fear that this would start major social and governmental changes, has sent representatives to find anything that would allow them to stop her, going so far as sending her new husband on never-ending missions to keep them apart! If this wasn’t enough, a fey altar is found in the library!
In this instalment, Burgis widens the scope. Cassandra is not the only one with huge stakes in this endeavour of hers. I only hope the author carries on the narrative since I cannot wait to see how it all develops! :O)
In this instalment, Burgis widens the scope. Cassandra is not the only one with huge stakes in this endeavour of hers. I only hope the author carries on the narrative since I cannot wait to see how it all develops! :O)
March 11, 2019
Another wonderful installment by Burgis! It's opening day at Cassandra Harwood's new school for female magicians, and Murphy's Law is hard at play. The Boudiccate is looking for every excuse to shut down the new school, the Great Library has taken a staunch position against the school, and as Cassandra quickly learns, all her supporters are paying a steep price for her vision. Now, with an old nemesis come as the Boudiccate-assigned head inspector to assess the school, and illegal fey contracts inviting malicious intervention into the heart of the college, Cassandra will have her hands full trying to protect both her students and those she loves most. But a Harwood always rises to the challenge.
Twists, turns, despair, dedication, and a whole lot of miscommunication! ;) Read it!
Twists, turns, despair, dedication, and a whole lot of miscommunication! ;) Read it!
May 19, 2019
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
THORNBOUND starts abruptly on the night before students are set to arrive at Cassandra's brand new school of magic. As you can imagine, chaos can't help but ensue. Set in an alternative historical England, Angland, where women rule politics, and men are considered too emotional to do anything but magic, THORNBOUND is a wonderful addition to The Harwood Spellbook series!
I've currently been going through a bit of a reading slump, and THORNBOUND was just what I needed to get me out of it! My memory of SNOWSPELLED was of an excellent read, but I didn't remember the details. As I started THORNBOUND, I was a bit worried that I was going to be confused, but Burgis has a way of writing that throws you immediately into the action, and revealing facts in a way that you feel as if you already knew them, and just needed a bit of help to remember. I also felt like Burgis expanded on the world just enough, giving more details as to political dramas and the various nations surrounding Angland.
Cassandra spends a bit too much time arguing with those around her about "the greater good" and what is worth giving up and what isn't. But these conversations are necessary to fully understand the monumental undertaking Cassandra has started and for the reader to understand the stakes at risk. Of course there's also all manner of interesting, diverse characters (fantastical, such as a half-fae member of the household, and realistic, such as the two women in love with each other who are hiding their relationship). There's a mystery, and some romantic moments between Cassandra and her husband. THORNBOUND has it all, just like SNOWSPELLED, a perfect little package with something for everybody and lots of action to boot!
All in all, THORNBOUND is so delightful that I kept trying to pace myself reading it, in order to delay the inevitable ending. Headstrong and intelligent, Cassandra is exactly the kind of person I would love to spend the afternoon with, and luckily, with THORNBOUND, I am delighted to enter her world for a moment.
Sexual content: Kissing, implied sex
THORNBOUND starts abruptly on the night before students are set to arrive at Cassandra's brand new school of magic. As you can imagine, chaos can't help but ensue. Set in an alternative historical England, Angland, where women rule politics, and men are considered too emotional to do anything but magic, THORNBOUND is a wonderful addition to The Harwood Spellbook series!
I've currently been going through a bit of a reading slump, and THORNBOUND was just what I needed to get me out of it! My memory of SNOWSPELLED was of an excellent read, but I didn't remember the details. As I started THORNBOUND, I was a bit worried that I was going to be confused, but Burgis has a way of writing that throws you immediately into the action, and revealing facts in a way that you feel as if you already knew them, and just needed a bit of help to remember. I also felt like Burgis expanded on the world just enough, giving more details as to political dramas and the various nations surrounding Angland.
Cassandra spends a bit too much time arguing with those around her about "the greater good" and what is worth giving up and what isn't. But these conversations are necessary to fully understand the monumental undertaking Cassandra has started and for the reader to understand the stakes at risk. Of course there's also all manner of interesting, diverse characters (fantastical, such as a half-fae member of the household, and realistic, such as the two women in love with each other who are hiding their relationship). There's a mystery, and some romantic moments between Cassandra and her husband. THORNBOUND has it all, just like SNOWSPELLED, a perfect little package with something for everybody and lots of action to boot!
All in all, THORNBOUND is so delightful that I kept trying to pace myself reading it, in order to delay the inevitable ending. Headstrong and intelligent, Cassandra is exactly the kind of person I would love to spend the afternoon with, and luckily, with THORNBOUND, I am delighted to enter her world for a moment.
Sexual content: Kissing, implied sex
April 13, 2025
Officially a Stephanie Burgis fan 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
May 18, 2019
I think if you loved Snowspelled, you’re really in for a treat with Thornbound. (And if you haven’t read Snowspelled yet, you should consider picking it up.)
Some time has passed since the ending of the last book and Cassandra is a busy bee getting ready for the grand opening of her new school. She’s taken on a huge responsibility putting all of this together and has worked herself near to the point of exhaustion when she gets some terrible news–the school might not be allowed to stay open. She’ll have to endure a selected group sent by the Boudiccate to observe the school in action and make a final recommendation so her fate, and those of all her students, lies in their hands. And, unfortunately for Cassandra, one of them is an old tormentor of hers.
I really loved the pace of this book. Right away we’re thrown into a flurry of activity as Cassandra is finishing up last minute preparations. From there it’s one crises after another, Cassandra trying to handle everything herself, juggling all of these balls up in the air. And despite being surrounded by friends and family, it feels like she’s all alone, especially as Wrexham has been away for work since they married.
At first I was a little upset that Wrexham was out of the picture for so much of the book because, well, he’s kind of awesome. (I had to laugh though because he totally reminded me of Tuxedo Mask from Sailor Moon–all ‘you can do it!’ and then is away for most of the book for reasons…well, and those of you that have read/watched Sailor Moon will get it and probably also get a chuckle. :D) But anyway, Wrexham is great, I loved him in the first book and I continue to love him here because he’s such a supportive person and he loves Cassandra so very much. Which is probably why it was so important to have him out of the picture because this book is all about Cassandra learning how to let go of control and not feel so guilty for relying on others. It’s less a journey of self-discovery and more a journey of knowing when to be able to ask for help and not feel guilty about it. And because Wrexham is the first person she’d probably turn to, it was important for her to learn that other people in her life are happy to help her too. She takes so much onto her own shoulders and is so afraid of how she’s hurting her friends that she doesn’t think about how much she’s hurting them by shutting them out, and it’s a hard lesson to learn for someone who is used to being in control.
This book gave me a lot to think about as well. At one point a character brings up what the success of the magic school for women would mean, what if suddenly men want to move into the political sphere? What would happen to the women in power there? Because of the way gender roles are in this society I felt like this was an interesting way to examine privilege, and man did it leave me with a bit of a gut-punch. For a second I thought, ‘oh no, what would happen to the women in power, what if they lose it?!?’ and then I was thought, ‘oh wait, stuff would just be equal and fair’. That moment of panic really had me checking myself and doing some self-examining. I didn’t expect to get so much self-exploration out of this book, but the fact that it made me think about these things is a mark of greatness in my opinion!
I continue to love the characters and the setting. I feel like we got to know a little bit more about the world in this one too, especially in regards to the fae and the way some of the magic works. If there’s one small detractor it’s that I did pretty much figure out what was going on before everything was revealed, but I don’t think that took away from the story in general. Overall this book was fantastic and I’m very much looking forward to reading more in this world. 4.5/5 stars.
Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC for review purposes. This has not affected the content of my review in any way.
Some time has passed since the ending of the last book and Cassandra is a busy bee getting ready for the grand opening of her new school. She’s taken on a huge responsibility putting all of this together and has worked herself near to the point of exhaustion when she gets some terrible news–the school might not be allowed to stay open. She’ll have to endure a selected group sent by the Boudiccate to observe the school in action and make a final recommendation so her fate, and those of all her students, lies in their hands. And, unfortunately for Cassandra, one of them is an old tormentor of hers.
I really loved the pace of this book. Right away we’re thrown into a flurry of activity as Cassandra is finishing up last minute preparations. From there it’s one crises after another, Cassandra trying to handle everything herself, juggling all of these balls up in the air. And despite being surrounded by friends and family, it feels like she’s all alone, especially as Wrexham has been away for work since they married.
At first I was a little upset that Wrexham was out of the picture for so much of the book because, well, he’s kind of awesome. (I had to laugh though because he totally reminded me of Tuxedo Mask from Sailor Moon–all ‘you can do it!’ and then is away for most of the book for reasons…well, and those of you that have read/watched Sailor Moon will get it and probably also get a chuckle. :D) But anyway, Wrexham is great, I loved him in the first book and I continue to love him here because he’s such a supportive person and he loves Cassandra so very much. Which is probably why it was so important to have him out of the picture because this book is all about Cassandra learning how to let go of control and not feel so guilty for relying on others. It’s less a journey of self-discovery and more a journey of knowing when to be able to ask for help and not feel guilty about it. And because Wrexham is the first person she’d probably turn to, it was important for her to learn that other people in her life are happy to help her too. She takes so much onto her own shoulders and is so afraid of how she’s hurting her friends that she doesn’t think about how much she’s hurting them by shutting them out, and it’s a hard lesson to learn for someone who is used to being in control.
This book gave me a lot to think about as well. At one point a character brings up what the success of the magic school for women would mean, what if suddenly men want to move into the political sphere? What would happen to the women in power there? Because of the way gender roles are in this society I felt like this was an interesting way to examine privilege, and man did it leave me with a bit of a gut-punch. For a second I thought, ‘oh no, what would happen to the women in power, what if they lose it?!?’ and then I was thought, ‘oh wait, stuff would just be equal and fair’. That moment of panic really had me checking myself and doing some self-examining. I didn’t expect to get so much self-exploration out of this book, but the fact that it made me think about these things is a mark of greatness in my opinion!
I continue to love the characters and the setting. I feel like we got to know a little bit more about the world in this one too, especially in regards to the fae and the way some of the magic works. If there’s one small detractor it’s that I did pretty much figure out what was going on before everything was revealed, but I don’t think that took away from the story in general. Overall this book was fantastic and I’m very much looking forward to reading more in this world. 4.5/5 stars.
Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC for review purposes. This has not affected the content of my review in any way.
February 2, 2020
Thornbound is the second book in the Harwood Spellbook series by Stephanie Burgis and we get to see Cassandra fulfilling her dreams as she opens the door to her new school for female magicians, the Thornfell College of Magic. Cassandra has had a lot of support from her family and her husband to open the school but it quickly becomes clear that a lot of people in positions of power are not happy with her attempting to change the status quo. It's so engrained in society that women are politicians while men are magicians and people are worried that rocking the boat with this new college will have all kinds of implications for the future.
Cassandra has never been one to back down from a challenge but when the Boudiccate send a team of inspectors who are essentially looking for excuses to shut down the college she knows she's really up against it. Then a sinister fae altar is found in the school library proving that someone has been dabbling in forbidden magic, and Cassandra's husband goes missing she starts to wonder if her own dreams are costing the ones she loves a price that she's not willing to pay.
I'm really enjoying this series and I hope that we're going to see more of Cassandra as well as the staff and students at Thornfell College in the future, I'm sure there are all kinds of adventures they could get up to! I think what I like most about this series is how it turns rules of society as we know them on their head, it's the men who have to watch their reputations as being alone with a woman could ruin their reputations and it its the women who have most of the power. But while it's fun to see that switch up I also like the way Cassandra and her students are challenging societal norms to follow their dreams. We've seen Cassandra and her brother both make choices that are looked down on from some quarters but they never gave up and now they're giving a whole new generation the ability to follow in their footsteps.
This series is brilliantly written with inspiring characters and a fun magical setting. Adding in the tricky Fae only adds to the excitement as you really never know what one of them will try next, especially if they're making dodgy bargains with people.
Cassandra has never been one to back down from a challenge but when the Boudiccate send a team of inspectors who are essentially looking for excuses to shut down the college she knows she's really up against it. Then a sinister fae altar is found in the school library proving that someone has been dabbling in forbidden magic, and Cassandra's husband goes missing she starts to wonder if her own dreams are costing the ones she loves a price that she's not willing to pay.
I'm really enjoying this series and I hope that we're going to see more of Cassandra as well as the staff and students at Thornfell College in the future, I'm sure there are all kinds of adventures they could get up to! I think what I like most about this series is how it turns rules of society as we know them on their head, it's the men who have to watch their reputations as being alone with a woman could ruin their reputations and it its the women who have most of the power. But while it's fun to see that switch up I also like the way Cassandra and her students are challenging societal norms to follow their dreams. We've seen Cassandra and her brother both make choices that are looked down on from some quarters but they never gave up and now they're giving a whole new generation the ability to follow in their footsteps.
This series is brilliantly written with inspiring characters and a fun magical setting. Adding in the tricky Fae only adds to the excitement as you really never know what one of them will try next, especially if they're making dodgy bargains with people.
February 3, 2020
Originally posted to I Should Read That
Thornbound continues directly from Snowspelled and it is just as delightful as the first book. Where Snowspelled focuses mostly on Cassandra as the only female magician in Angland, although she has lost her powers, Thornbound sees more and more women practicing magic with Cassandra as their teacher. I really enjoyed seeing Cassandra move forward with her school and continue to push the boundaries of polite society, but I’m also glad that the book shifts its focus from just her to include an entirely new group of women. I’m absolutely fascinated by the gender politics in this world and can’t wait to see how Burgis continues to play them out!
The story arc of the book is both bitterly frustrating with what Cassandra and her family are forced to deal with, yet also incredibly sweet and satisfying. Reading this book was an absolute treat! I cannot recommend the audiobooks more highly -- Emma Newman is a fantastic narrator and her voice perfectly suits the tone!
Thornbound continues directly from Snowspelled and it is just as delightful as the first book. Where Snowspelled focuses mostly on Cassandra as the only female magician in Angland, although she has lost her powers, Thornbound sees more and more women practicing magic with Cassandra as their teacher. I really enjoyed seeing Cassandra move forward with her school and continue to push the boundaries of polite society, but I’m also glad that the book shifts its focus from just her to include an entirely new group of women. I’m absolutely fascinated by the gender politics in this world and can’t wait to see how Burgis continues to play them out!
The story arc of the book is both bitterly frustrating with what Cassandra and her family are forced to deal with, yet also incredibly sweet and satisfying. Reading this book was an absolute treat! I cannot recommend the audiobooks more highly -- Emma Newman is a fantastic narrator and her voice perfectly suits the tone!
April 12, 2019
I think a lot of my reaction to this book/this series is that it wasn't what I expected it to be re: gender reversal of power. There's still a lot of battling against society's expectations and that makes me feel just . . . sad and anxious. It just . . . maybe I would feel differently if I wasn't a woman in a male dominated field (IT). As is, it just feels like, yep, that's how the real world is, too.
February 26, 2019
Good story line with family working together! I enjoyed the twist at the end!
October 20, 2021
I don't know if I like this entry to the series better because we finally get a better idea of how this world works, or because there is a lot more action and intrigue, or both. I like 'Young Luton' more and more, (although I probably wouldn't in real life) and wish he was getting his own story in the series.
December 30, 2024
I said briskly, "Never mind. Given the circumstances, I'm sure no one will question your virtue if you choose to stay in Thornfell with the rest of us tonight. We'll find you a room well away from any ladies, with a door that locks firmly from the inside.
"Or you could sleep at Harwood House," Jonathan asked, "if you're concerned about your reputation."
"No." Lutton drew himself up, giving his cottage one last, wistful look before turning to Thornfell with squared shoulders. "I shan't desert my post. Besides, Mr. Wrexham will be sleeping in Thornfell tonight. With a married gentleman in residence, my reputation should be safe enough.
This is probably my least favourite from the series so far, although it has the prettiest cover! This isn't much of a romance because Wrexham isn't present for most of the story, but the relationship is one of the important elements of the story. It is mostly a drama - Cassandra finally started her school of magic for ladies, but now there is TROUBLE that needs to be sorted out! Honestly, it was a bit too stressful for me at the moment, because I really wanted something cosier, but I really loved the simplicity of the story and quite enjoyed figuring everything out.
I also wanted to talk about this in my review of Snowspelled and then didn't so maybe I just do it here. I'm reading Cassandra's story very much as a disability story - in the first book we see her (mostly physically and emotionally) recovering from a magical injury that took certain abilities away from her. I really like that it's a consequence of her over-straining herself and not knowing her limits. And I also like that this isn't a story of regaining that powers but of her coming to terms that she never will and finding a purpose in life as someone who can no longer do what she thought of as her dream. There is also a faint underline of how losing the powers actually makes her a "better person" in the effect but this isn't overstressed and isn't a consequence of her disability, but of her better understanding of herself because of the disability. I thought this aspect of the story works pretty well.
My complaints about the worldbuilding still stand and this wasn't my favourite of the series, but I still enjoyed it and read it really quickly. It is an easy read. I'm a bit hesitant about recommending this series overall, but if it sounds good to you, go for it! Definitely would recommend reading both Snowspelled and Spellswept before this one though! Really looking forward to reading Moontangled the sapphic installment in the series!
August 31, 2022
Whimsical and charming, a perfect sequel to Snowspelled.
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February 12, 2019Review forthcoming.
February 11, 2020
Stephanie Burgis’ Harwood Spellbook series gives plenty of enjoyment. There are moments when you’re intrigued by a well-crafted world. There are moments where your blood boils at the injustice thrust upon characters. There are also moments of fun and levity, bits that elicit a smile or a laugh. Thornbound, the second book in the series, has all of these aspects aplenty.
Thornbound picks up soon after Snowspelled left off. It tells the story of the first week of classes at Thornfell College of Magic, a new institution breaking the mold and prejudices of the day and training women in the practice of magic. One of the elements I truly love about Burgis’ writing in this one is that she manages to write a story that feels small and personal but set it in a world that is deeply crafted. Her fictional Angland could give the worlds in many epic fantasy novels a run for their money. The similarities and differences in comparison to our own world are extremely well done. The world walks the line between historical fantasy and an entirely secondary world, often making you ask the what if questions that historical fantasy is so good at while also offering the sandbox that secondary world fantasy so often does. Burgis is also exceptional at writing antagonists that elicit visceral reactions from the reader. There were moments when I wanted to throw something at the antagonists. We aren’t dealing with dark lords here, but with run of the mill, every day selfishness and blindness that is incredibly relatable.
There are a couple weaknesses in the novel. For me, the largest is that, because it is a short novel, I often had ancillary questions that went unanswered. There are so many delicious hints dropped in terms of the magic and the world on which I want the story to go just a bit deeper. The story is obviously meant to be small in scope, so I can’t fault it too much for this, but I would have liked to have seen just that little more in terms of the magic and world. Another issue I had was that, going in, I expected this to be another romance, similar to Snowspelled. But it had hardly any romantic elements at all. I certainly wouldn’t call it a romance. More a sort of cozy adventure fantasy. This isn’t a weakness, just an element that I missed in this story, knowing how well Burgis can write romance. And yet, it isn’t that this story feels the lack of it. I wanted to see more of the romance, true, but I don’t think the story suffered as a result.
Thornbound is another quick, fun read from Stephanie Burgis that will appeal especially to those who enjoy personal, small-scale stories set in well-crafted worlds. I certainly can’t wait to see what Burgis brings us next.
8.2/10
4.1/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
Thornbound picks up soon after Snowspelled left off. It tells the story of the first week of classes at Thornfell College of Magic, a new institution breaking the mold and prejudices of the day and training women in the practice of magic. One of the elements I truly love about Burgis’ writing in this one is that she manages to write a story that feels small and personal but set it in a world that is deeply crafted. Her fictional Angland could give the worlds in many epic fantasy novels a run for their money. The similarities and differences in comparison to our own world are extremely well done. The world walks the line between historical fantasy and an entirely secondary world, often making you ask the what if questions that historical fantasy is so good at while also offering the sandbox that secondary world fantasy so often does. Burgis is also exceptional at writing antagonists that elicit visceral reactions from the reader. There were moments when I wanted to throw something at the antagonists. We aren’t dealing with dark lords here, but with run of the mill, every day selfishness and blindness that is incredibly relatable.
There are a couple weaknesses in the novel. For me, the largest is that, because it is a short novel, I often had ancillary questions that went unanswered. There are so many delicious hints dropped in terms of the magic and the world on which I want the story to go just a bit deeper. The story is obviously meant to be small in scope, so I can’t fault it too much for this, but I would have liked to have seen just that little more in terms of the magic and world. Another issue I had was that, going in, I expected this to be another romance, similar to Snowspelled. But it had hardly any romantic elements at all. I certainly wouldn’t call it a romance. More a sort of cozy adventure fantasy. This isn’t a weakness, just an element that I missed in this story, knowing how well Burgis can write romance. And yet, it isn’t that this story feels the lack of it. I wanted to see more of the romance, true, but I don’t think the story suffered as a result.
Thornbound is another quick, fun read from Stephanie Burgis that will appeal especially to those who enjoy personal, small-scale stories set in well-crafted worlds. I certainly can’t wait to see what Burgis brings us next.
8.2/10
4.1/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
June 30, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Instead of being a new couple, Thornbound continues with the same couple and family from Snowspelled and follows it by a few months in timeframe. Cassandra and her husband are trying to make their lives and dreams come true. Of course, they don't know each other completely or what the other wants yet. They are still learning about each other.
This was just fun, a well-told story. There's plenty of young adults making their way in life. They have different needs, and goals. Some of them care about others and some don't. The passion and energy of the young flow through their actions. With the social aspects, some of the strategy is political. There is quite a male vs. female stereotype going.
Some people just don't want things to change; they are afraid of other changes. There are blackmailers and angry fey who join the party. Nothing can just be simple when you are trying to change the world! I hope there will be more in this Harwood Spellbook series .
Narration:
I still am enjoying Emma Newman's performance as the primary character is the same as the previous book. The female character is the main point of view and she felt right for their thoughts telling the story. There was a bit of an accent and historical wordings which I enjoyed. There is a bit of distinction between characters with the male voices a bit lower. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
COYER: Read any type of romance novel. PTS: 1.
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Instead of being a new couple, Thornbound continues with the same couple and family from Snowspelled and follows it by a few months in timeframe. Cassandra and her husband are trying to make their lives and dreams come true. Of course, they don't know each other completely or what the other wants yet. They are still learning about each other.
This was just fun, a well-told story. There's plenty of young adults making their way in life. They have different needs, and goals. Some of them care about others and some don't. The passion and energy of the young flow through their actions. With the social aspects, some of the strategy is political. There is quite a male vs. female stereotype going.
Some people just don't want things to change; they are afraid of other changes. There are blackmailers and angry fey who join the party. Nothing can just be simple when you are trying to change the world! I hope there will be more in this Harwood Spellbook series .
Narration:
I still am enjoying Emma Newman's performance as the primary character is the same as the previous book. The female character is the main point of view and she felt right for their thoughts telling the story. There was a bit of an accent and historical wordings which I enjoyed. There is a bit of distinction between characters with the male voices a bit lower. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
COYER: Read any type of romance novel. PTS: 1.
September 11, 2021
I keep telling you just how much I enjoyed Snowspelled, now I finally got around to the sequel.
And I loved it even more!
Cassandra is a wonderful main character, and I love how she is both willing to go head first through walls for things she feels are important. And on the other hand she also cares deeply about her friends and family, and tries to do right by everyone. Even by incredibly annoying and self important weather wizards...
This book dipped even more into the topic of "women's rights" than the first, and that is always a plus for me. If it's done with plenty of female characters who I can actually look up to? That's obviously the best.
The romance was well done. It didn't overshadow the book at all, but was a small and fitting part of the story. Because as much as Cassandra loves her new husband, there's just so much other stuff to do and organise! So it felt quite realistic and cozy to me.
If you like Jane Austen style books, with strong female characters, fae and magic, and plenty of friendships, look no farther. Do yourself a favour and read this series!
And I loved it even more!
Cassandra is a wonderful main character, and I love how she is both willing to go head first through walls for things she feels are important. And on the other hand she also cares deeply about her friends and family, and tries to do right by everyone. Even by incredibly annoying and self important weather wizards...
This book dipped even more into the topic of "women's rights" than the first, and that is always a plus for me. If it's done with plenty of female characters who I can actually look up to? That's obviously the best.
The romance was well done. It didn't overshadow the book at all, but was a small and fitting part of the story. Because as much as Cassandra loves her new husband, there's just so much other stuff to do and organise! So it felt quite realistic and cozy to me.
If you like Jane Austen style books, with strong female characters, fae and magic, and plenty of friendships, look no farther. Do yourself a favour and read this series!
September 6, 2019
A little bit painful to transition directly from reading Amy's novella— Amy, consummate politician and expert delegator— to this one— where we have Cassandra, who never met a challenge she didn't try to face in one-on-one combat and keep other people from helping with— but still a joy.
I just love the world building (gender-flipped edwardian magic-filled england! The fae are there! A world where we declined to lean into racism and homophobia when we could just be quiet!) and the characters (angry weather-wizard with no social graces who tried to duel a fae! Cassandra, determined juggernaut of my heart! fearsome housekeeper with mysterious magic ties! all the students I want the BEST for!) and the RELATIONSHIPS (iron-clad family ties both chosen and biological, swoony romance, ride-or-die coworkers) all so much.
Burgis is always a delight, but this series is distilled even further to just be so much FUN.
I just love the world building (gender-flipped edwardian magic-filled england! The fae are there! A world where we declined to lean into racism and homophobia when we could just be quiet!) and the characters (angry weather-wizard with no social graces who tried to duel a fae! Cassandra, determined juggernaut of my heart! fearsome housekeeper with mysterious magic ties! all the students I want the BEST for!) and the RELATIONSHIPS (iron-clad family ties both chosen and biological, swoony romance, ride-or-die coworkers) all so much.
Burgis is always a delight, but this series is distilled even further to just be so much FUN.
January 1, 2025
Following on from Snowspelled (my review, 5 stars), this novella sees Cassandra opening up her new magic school for girls with the help of family and friends - and frenemies.
When the Boudiccate sends a former nemesis to "inspect" the grand opening, Cassandra will have to marshal all her considerable will to prevent its closure: but that will mean learning to let go of her stubborn pride and ask for (and accept!) assistance from allies she doesn't even realize she has.
I loved the Fae mystery at the heart of the story and learning more about this world and these characters. These are quick reads with real heart. Looking forward to the next installment!
When the Boudiccate sends a former nemesis to "inspect" the grand opening, Cassandra will have to marshal all her considerable will to prevent its closure: but that will mean learning to let go of her stubborn pride and ask for (and accept!) assistance from allies she doesn't even realize she has.
I loved the Fae mystery at the heart of the story and learning more about this world and these characters. These are quick reads with real heart. Looking forward to the next installment!
July 23, 2021
This is a book full of amazing women, Cassandra and Amy are the main ones, but not the only ones you will meet there. And I think that we need more characters like them in our books. It is empowering, it is a boost to our self-confidence and it is a joy to read.
And I am so glad to finally see Cassandra's school opening. Sure, bad things happen there, and I am sorry for them, but the school was so good to see.
And Cassandra and Wrexham are so sweet together, I really hope to see more of them together!
And I am so glad to finally see Cassandra's school opening. Sure, bad things happen there, and I am sorry for them, but the school was so good to see.
And Cassandra and Wrexham are so sweet together, I really hope to see more of them together!
November 19, 2020
While I do wish these were a bit more romance-y, I love the world. It's so nice to read a fantasy that doesn't have the standard patriarchal foundation. Also, there's not nearly enough fluffy fantasy, so this very much scratches that itch. They could use a bit more oomph, but for novellas they're very good and fun.
March 15, 2020
Rating: 2.5
June 12, 2019
This novella continues where Snowspelled left off. Cassandra Harwood is intent upon starting a school of magic for girls, but her path will not be an easy one. She expects pushback from the government, but opposition will come from unexpected sources, as well -- and at times, that opposition may be dangerous.
I loved these novellas, and would recommend reading them back to back in order to get the full experience at once. Burgis has other stories set in the same world, and I'm sure I will be tracking those down.
I loved these novellas, and would recommend reading them back to back in order to get the full experience at once. Burgis has other stories set in the same world, and I'm sure I will be tracking those down.
March 1, 2019
Another lovely installment from Stephanie Burgis. I highly recommend this series of novellas and look forward to the next one.
October 2, 2019
Picking up a few months after the conclusion of Snowspelled, Thornbound follows Cassandra as she fights to open the first ever school of magic for girls. Shared once again from Casandra’s first person POV, we learn that she and Rexum have married; however the Boudiccate is giving him job after job, keeping him away since the day of their wedding. Additionally, Cassandra’s dreams are plagued by thorny vines that strangle and choke her.
I enjoyed following Cassandra into her new adventures as she strives to find her place in the world, one where she no longer has her magic. I cheered along side her as she makes efforts to teach girls magic because it is just and right. However, when outsiders point out how her actions are selfish and harmful, Cassandra begins to question her motives. I felt it was an effective way to suss out the true feelings and opinions of those around her, especially her family. However, I got annoyed when at a critical point in the book, Cassandra, Jonathan, and Amy argued, for quite a long time, slinging around righteous indignation over Cassandra’s actions.
The story is all the more thrilling because of a mysterious traitor who lets in a Fae to cause mischief. Cassandra must work against time to keep her charges safe, while trying to please the upity Boudiccate inspectors.
Narration: Emma Newman provides the wonderful narration for the story. Her crisp British accent is suitable for the location and setting, but also the genre; there is something about a British accent that brings to life a good fantasy. She uses a clear, female voice for Cassandra, altering the dialogue for each character. She adds just enough emotion to benefit the story without overwhelming it. Her male voices are slightly deeper, and she also alters her voices based on the age of the character.
While this is the probably Cassandra’s final tale, the author told me she plans to someday write more in this fascinating world. I look forward to finding out how the Thornfell College of Magic is faring and if Angland survives the changes Cassandra put into motion.
My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by author.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
I enjoyed following Cassandra into her new adventures as she strives to find her place in the world, one where she no longer has her magic. I cheered along side her as she makes efforts to teach girls magic because it is just and right. However, when outsiders point out how her actions are selfish and harmful, Cassandra begins to question her motives. I felt it was an effective way to suss out the true feelings and opinions of those around her, especially her family. However, I got annoyed when at a critical point in the book, Cassandra, Jonathan, and Amy argued, for quite a long time, slinging around righteous indignation over Cassandra’s actions.
The story is all the more thrilling because of a mysterious traitor who lets in a Fae to cause mischief. Cassandra must work against time to keep her charges safe, while trying to please the upity Boudiccate inspectors.
Narration: Emma Newman provides the wonderful narration for the story. Her crisp British accent is suitable for the location and setting, but also the genre; there is something about a British accent that brings to life a good fantasy. She uses a clear, female voice for Cassandra, altering the dialogue for each character. She adds just enough emotion to benefit the story without overwhelming it. Her male voices are slightly deeper, and she also alters her voices based on the age of the character.
While this is the probably Cassandra’s final tale, the author told me she plans to someday write more in this fascinating world. I look forward to finding out how the Thornfell College of Magic is faring and if Angland survives the changes Cassandra put into motion.
My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: A-
Review copy provided by author.
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
December 1, 2021
More of the same from Snowbound. I got a little restless with the long heart-to-hearts about how you can't expect to do everything by yourself and need to accept help from people who love you--that bit went on too long--but I enjoyed the development of the plot and the way little hints set earlier came back in the final conflict. This is very standard a reaction for me as far as YA books are concerned: I usually enjoy the plot and world-building and the fact that they are undemanding and fun, but I get restless at the careful inclusion of lessons about how to navigate the world as an adult. 'Don't do this stupid thing,' says the YA book. 'Our heroine has done this stupid thing and see how badly it worked out? Now listen to a conversation in which people tell her how not to do the stupid thing.' In fairy tales, doing the stupid thing is what sets the adventure going in the first place, so that's fine. But in YA usually the adventure is already happening, and when the young protagonist does a stupid thing it slows the plot down, because the stupid thing must be resolved before the plot can advance. That's exactly what happens in this book: Cassandra refuses to talk to her family and ask for help, but they in fact hold the keys to solving the problem, so she just flails and flounders in the middle of the book, and I got a little restless. But once that tiresome conversation 'we love you talk to us!' is done, things progressed nicely to the conclusion.
Also, I mentioned in my review of Snowspelled how much I enjoy a world where gender roles are not based upon misogyny. But it turns out that Angland is unusual in this way, and the rest of Europe and the Elven Kingdom are super sexist against women just like in regular 19th century history, and that's used in plot-relevant ways, I'm just so tired of books that feel like they need to include misogyny in their world-building. Can't you just not?
Also, I mentioned in my review of Snowspelled how much I enjoy a world where gender roles are not based upon misogyny. But it turns out that Angland is unusual in this way, and the rest of Europe and the Elven Kingdom are super sexist against women just like in regular 19th century history, and that's used in plot-relevant ways, I'm just so tired of books that feel like they need to include misogyny in their world-building. Can't you just not?
February 1, 2019
Things don't go easily when Cassandra Harwood tries to set up a school for magically inclined young women. The Boudiccate has very reluctantly given permission for the school but has sent a investigative team including Cassandra's greatest enemy to give final approval.
That is only one of the problems though. Cassandra has been plagued with nightmares of thorn strewn vines entangling and strangling her, her husband has been kept so busy by the Boudiccate that they haven't been able to spend any time together since their marriage, and someone has created an altar and made a bargain with the fae in her library. Oh, and the only wizard she could convince to take a role as a teacher in her school is an arrogant blowhard who couldn't find a job anywhere else.
Cassandra does have the support of her brother Jonathan and his wife Amy but fears that her goal of starting a magic school for young women has wide consequences for their future. Amy has already lost her political career. Cassandra's afraid that her goal will ruin her husband's bright future too. And when he goes missing, Cassandra learns that she doesn't have to do everything herself. It is okay to rely on her family and her young students for help.
This was an entertaining and quite emotional story about love, family, and ambition. I loved a further look into this alternate history world and look forward to more stories set there.
That is only one of the problems though. Cassandra has been plagued with nightmares of thorn strewn vines entangling and strangling her, her husband has been kept so busy by the Boudiccate that they haven't been able to spend any time together since their marriage, and someone has created an altar and made a bargain with the fae in her library. Oh, and the only wizard she could convince to take a role as a teacher in her school is an arrogant blowhard who couldn't find a job anywhere else.
Cassandra does have the support of her brother Jonathan and his wife Amy but fears that her goal of starting a magic school for young women has wide consequences for their future. Amy has already lost her political career. Cassandra's afraid that her goal will ruin her husband's bright future too. And when he goes missing, Cassandra learns that she doesn't have to do everything herself. It is okay to rely on her family and her young students for help.
This was an entertaining and quite emotional story about love, family, and ambition. I loved a further look into this alternate history world and look forward to more stories set there.
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