I've read several fantasy themed P&P variations and this is among the best of them. The world building is excellent; Jane Austen mixed naturally with magic, ala Diana Wynne Jones (who wrote Howl's Moving Castle, amongst others) and JK Rowling (who wrote a little known series you may or may not have heard of). Magic just IS part of the world that the P&P characters inhabit and so the reader feels like they're getting a peek into their day to day lives.
The plot follows the basic trajectory of the original P&P, with exceptions made where necessary. The author isn't afraid to change the details to suit her variation, but it remains in the frame created by Austen. A good balance. And there was a nice dose of mystery in figuring out the identity of the Theif; I figured it out halfway through, but only as one theory amongst a few, so I kept guessing til the very end. Cleverly crafted.
I deducted half a star because, as much as I loved it overall, I thought that the ending felt a bit rushed in comparison to the first three quarters. A few minor characters were dismissed without further thought as well, but since they had little to do with the main plot I suppose that's forgivable. Other than that, minor errors here or there, though nothing terribly specific comes to mind; they really were insignificant.
Highly recommended. Borrowed via Kindle Unlimited, then bought a copy for my collection to read again later.
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Reviews with images
More than a retelling: it casts a spell
I have been a fan of this story since its pre-publication stage! Kara Pleasants has a fully fledged world that is submerged in wild magic for our favorite couple, and wonderful characterizations to boot! This is a story you’ll read (and reread) and enjoy for the escapism. The verisimilitude the author creates—magical theory, history, and functional world-building—immerse the reader quickly in the mystery and intrigue of the plot without feeling contrived. Darcy and Elizabeth’s encounters (shaded with magic) add an intensity to their relationship that just keeps getting better as the tale moves forward!Side note: I admit to also feeling relief that Bingley has his own strengths to showcase (as too often, he is portrayed as a dopey-but-loveable second fiddle to Darcy). This is an added bonus to the story!If you love magic fantasy (a la Harry Potter) and also love Austen, this one won’t fail to please!
Top reviews from other countries
Nicole H
Love this version of Jane Austen Fantasy
Reviewed in Canada on July 22, 2022
pootsiepoodlepie
one of the very best of the magic related
Reviewed in France on September 3, 2023Craftyhj
An excellent and inspired variation
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 18, 2020Kindle Customer
Mastery in a package I didn't expect
Reviewed in Australia on June 6, 2020