Devon’s review of Enchanting the Lady (Relics of Merlin, Book 1) by Kathryne Kennedy
Historical Paranormal Romance released by Love Spell 1 Jan 08
It has been a long time since I stayed up late reading. I’ve read some decent books lately, enjoyable ones, but nothing worth jeopardizing my precious beauty sleep. And it is always a good sign when I just can’t wait to get back to a book. Enchanting the Lady had been on my pile for awhile, waiting for my mood to be right. It was a delightful surprise, one of the most engrossing romances I’ve read so far this year.
This book is set in a Victorian England filled with magic. Magical ability is the province of the Aristocracy, helping them maintain their power over society. Each level of the aristocracy has their own abilities, and the higher the social rank, the greater magic the person is supposed to possess. Unfortunately, Felicity Seymour, the Duchess of Honor Stonehaven, can barely perform a spell.
As the story begins, Felicity fails the magical testing necessary to claim her title and lands. But during her humiliating experience with Prince Albert, she comes to the notice of Sir Terence Blackwell, a lowly baronet and were-lion. Prince Albert uses shape shifters as his personal spies, since their immunity to magic enables them to perform a variety of tasks for him, including finding the dangerous Relics of Merlin. The shapeshifter/Baronets are looked upon with great disdain by other nobles, because of their animal natures, lack of magic and ability to see through others’ illusions, as well as their favor with the Prince. The moment Terence sets eyes upon Felicity, he knows there is more to her than others see. And that she may well be able to lead him to a Relic of Merlin.
I fell for these characters and world hook, line and sinker. The author is able to create great chemistry and passion between two characters who manage to stay charming rather than annoying. For example, Felicity is the very, very sweet, naive and spunky miss. These kind of heroines can often be TSTL or irritating, but given Felicity’s circumstances, her naivete and her forthrightness make total sense.
Terence is one of those heroes who just loves to go on about how he’s not in lurve, though his actions scream otherwise. This can be tedious, but Terence’s lack of self-awareness was rather adorable. He’s quite in touch with his animal side, but he’s just as astonished as Felicity to find himself leaning on her, nuzzling her neck, snuffling and purring. It was amusing and quite romantic how his lion side fell in love even as Terence told himself he was just on a mission. They are two lonely souls, craving the acceptance and interest the other provides. Their romance was very sweet, even as it was pretty hot.
The story moved along at a nice pace, and the magical background was richly detailed and lively. Some may find the details a bit precious: Mayfairy instead of Mayfair, Trickside instead of Cheapside, Pall Mage instead of Pall Mall, Gargoyle Square….Personally, I didn’t find it distracting or too cutesy. Certain things seemed glaringly obvious to me, so I found myself frustrated that they didn’t catch on quicker. And I thought the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly and neatly. But this was a fun read with entertaining characters, a delicious romance and an interesting world. I’m really looking forward to the next ones. Definitely recommended for fans of fantasy and historicals.
Grade: B+
Summary:
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In a world where magic ruled everything, Felicity Seymour couldn’t perform even the simplest spell. If she didn’t pass her testing, she’d lose her duchy-and any hope of marriage. But one man didn’t seem to mind her lack of dowry: a darkly delicious baronet who had managed to scare away the rest of London’s Society misses.
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Sir Terence Blackwell knew the enchanting woman before him wasn’t entirely without magic. Not only could she completely disarm him with her gorgeous lavender eyes and frank candor, but his were-lion senses could smell a dark power on her-the same kind of relic-magic that had killed his brother. Was she using it herself, or was it being used against her?
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One needed a husband, and the other needed answers. But only together could they find the strongest magic of all: true love.
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Read an excerpt here.
I really loved this book too, Devon. I loved Terrence! But it was fun and mysterious. Looking forward to the whole series.
I meant to read this last month after Sandy told me how good it was, got sidetracked with something else. Going to look for it now and put it in next-to-be-read pile.
This book was so cute! I, too, loved how Terrence would start nuzzling her, and then be just as startled by his actions as Felicity. I think I’m just about ready to read this one again . . .