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Unexpected Magic #3
Theory of Magic
A blind marquess who detects lies…
A spinster who hides behind deceit…
Can even magic bring them together?
“Patricia Rice weaves magical love stories” – Mary Jo Putney, NY Times Bestselling Author
Discover the third book in NY Times bestseller Patricia Rice’s Unexpected Magic historical romance series!
Scorned by suitors for her statuesque size, Harriet Stansbury bolts when her abusive stepfather begins negotiating with impecunious aristocrats to sell her for her dowry. When opportunity offers, she daringly takes a position in an eccentric household until she can claim her fortune.
Once a dashing rakehell, Duncan Ives, Marquess of Ashford lost his eyesight in a murderous assault. Abandoned by his fiancée, unable to ride the vast fields of his estate, he vents his frustration on political reform. On impulse, he hires the intriguing smoky-voiced Harriet even though he knows she’s lying—like him—with almost every word she speaks.
At first Harriet is a godsend, oddly anticipating what he needs and abating his worst rages. But when her stepfather accuses Duncan of ruining her, the scandal threatens everything he’s salvaged from the wreckage of his life. For the sake of his country, Duncan agrees to marriage. With her secret gift of empathy, Harriet isn’t so certain. She’s falling in love with the impossible marquess, but dare she risk her wounded heart for a man who can’t love her? And can Duncan learn to trust a woman whose voluptuous curves paralyze his good sense, but who is far more than she seems?
A spinster who hides behind deceit…
Can even magic bring them together?
“Patricia Rice weaves magical love stories” – Mary Jo Putney, NY Times Bestselling Author
Discover the third book in NY Times bestseller Patricia Rice’s Unexpected Magic historical romance series!
Scorned by suitors for her statuesque size, Harriet Stansbury bolts when her abusive stepfather begins negotiating with impecunious aristocrats to sell her for her dowry. When opportunity offers, she daringly takes a position in an eccentric household until she can claim her fortune.
Once a dashing rakehell, Duncan Ives, Marquess of Ashford lost his eyesight in a murderous assault. Abandoned by his fiancée, unable to ride the vast fields of his estate, he vents his frustration on political reform. On impulse, he hires the intriguing smoky-voiced Harriet even though he knows she’s lying—like him—with almost every word she speaks.
At first Harriet is a godsend, oddly anticipating what he needs and abating his worst rages. But when her stepfather accuses Duncan of ruining her, the scandal threatens everything he’s salvaged from the wreckage of his life. For the sake of his country, Duncan agrees to marriage. With her secret gift of empathy, Harriet isn’t so certain. She’s falling in love with the impossible marquess, but dare she risk her wounded heart for a man who can’t love her? And can Duncan learn to trust a woman whose voluptuous curves paralyze his good sense, but who is far more than she seems?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2016
577 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Rice
148 books514 followersWith several million books in print and New York Times and USA Today's bestseller lists under her belt, former CPA Patricia Rice writes emotionally-charged contemporary and historical romances which have won numerous awards, including the RT Book Reviews Reviewers Choice and Career Achievement Awards.
Her books have also been honored as Romance Writers of America RITA® finalists in the historical, regency and contemporary categories.
A firm believer in happily-ever-after for good reason, Patricia Rice is married to her high school sweetheart and has two children. A native of Kentucky and New York, a past resident of North Carolina and Missouri, she currently resides in Southern California, and now does accounting only for herself.
She also writes under the pen name Jamie Quaid
Her books have also been honored as Romance Writers of America RITA® finalists in the historical, regency and contemporary categories.
A firm believer in happily-ever-after for good reason, Patricia Rice is married to her high school sweetheart and has two children. A native of Kentucky and New York, a past resident of North Carolina and Missouri, she currently resides in Southern California, and now does accounting only for herself.
She also writes under the pen name Jamie Quaid
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
March 8, 2020
My favorite of the series thus far!
There were some less than perfect things in this book but on the whole it was so immersive and charming that I had to give it a high rating. While she adds exposition to help read it as a stand alone, I’ve found it has been helpful to read them in order.
Things I liked:
-I loved the theme of family. Christie really never knew the feeling and I loved how her joy unfurled at finding a place where she belonged.
- I loved the chemistry of the leads. It was based on more emotion and mutual understanding than visual lust since the hero was blind which I liked a lot. Steam was still pretty mild though since when they do get together it was only a page or so.
- The writing. Rice’s style is so delightful, at times exciting, funny, and heartwarming.
Weaker points:
(There wasn’t anything I disliked about this story but only areas where I wanted more)
- I needed more info on the fallout from the villain. I also wished there had been more explanation on all that had happened. When been building for three books and then everything was explained in a couple pages and my head spun.
- I got tired of Christie’s poor self image which was there until almost the very end. I felt like everyone had done enough to dispel her poor body image enough that it at least would not have been mentioned every few pages by the end.
- the gifts in this book weren’t as well explored. Christie seemed to have two-hearing ghosts sometimes and having empathy. Why those two? Was there a link? How did Duncan feel about them? And was Duncan truly able to always tell truth from lie? This was more in the story when convenient and I wanted more explanations.
Overall a really nice edition. I think it’s going to diverge a bit now but I hope Duncan and Theo and Aster do make more appearances.
There were some less than perfect things in this book but on the whole it was so immersive and charming that I had to give it a high rating. While she adds exposition to help read it as a stand alone, I’ve found it has been helpful to read them in order.
Things I liked:
-I loved the theme of family. Christie really never knew the feeling and I loved how her joy unfurled at finding a place where she belonged.
- I loved the chemistry of the leads. It was based on more emotion and mutual understanding than visual lust since the hero was blind which I liked a lot. Steam was still pretty mild though since when they do get together it was only a page or so.
- The writing. Rice’s style is so delightful, at times exciting, funny, and heartwarming.
Weaker points:
(There wasn’t anything I disliked about this story but only areas where I wanted more)
- I needed more info on the fallout from the villain. I also wished there had been more explanation on all that had happened. When been building for three books and then everything was explained in a couple pages and my head spun.
- I got tired of Christie’s poor self image which was there until almost the very end. I felt like everyone had done enough to dispel her poor body image enough that it at least would not have been mentioned every few pages by the end.
- the gifts in this book weren’t as well explored. Christie seemed to have two-hearing ghosts sometimes and having empathy. Why those two? Was there a link? How did Duncan feel about them? And was Duncan truly able to always tell truth from lie? This was more in the story when convenient and I wanted more explanations.
Overall a really nice edition. I think it’s going to diverge a bit now but I hope Duncan and Theo and Aster do make more appearances.
August 3, 2016
This is the first book of Patricia Rice I've read as I've recently taken a liking to historical romance. This is definitely an author I'll read more from. The story begins with a blind Marquess and a woman lacking in self esteem as a result of being demeaned by her step father for years. I loved how the author develops the characters and allows us to feel their frustration, hurt, and in the end disbelief (that someone could truly love one who has been beaten down verbally for so many years).
A great ride. I'm ready for more :)
A great ride. I'm ready for more :)
August 10, 2016
Another win in the Malcolm-Ives family romances! I can’t enough of these wonderful pairings of magic and science!
The blind Marquis is struggling to maintain his political seat and to obtain some control in the family home when he is surprised by the arrival of a woman whose voice not only brings him a sense of comfort but is also one he can tell when she is lying about herself. While she is around he also begins to see shadows and light. Who is she this woman of intrigue?
Harriet, or Chris, is devastated by yet another suitor’s rejection and on impulse she decides to take a walk. It is at this moment fate smiles down on Harriet when she meets Duncan Ives and the opportunity to leave home takes root. When Duncan hires “Christie” as an assistant he knows there is something she is hiding. “Christie” is so much bolder than Harriet and with this chance to become herself, Christie is finding she likes her new self. She is also finding that at the Ives home her senses of what others are feeling and the voices in her head are more heightened. ‘In no time at all, Christie is falling for Duncan’s twin sons and Duncan himself.
As the political enemies begin to play hardball by using the twins as pawns, Christie willingly places herself in jeopardy to save the family she has come to love. But Duncan won’t allow that as he has come to realize that he loves her as well.
As the Ives and the Malcom’s come together to fight their enemies a startling discovery regarding Christie’s family is unearthed by Aster. It is up to Duncan to decide if he can accept that secret.
I have always loved this blend of magic and science within these family ties. I like how it is the male Ives’ family home can cause the increased ability of the female Malcolm’s. It is also enjoyable to read of the eccentric characteristics the females tend to weld along with strong personalities. These families are strange in a sense to the times, yet they are powerful and accepted which lends to story’s development and enjoyment. Ms. Rice is a wonderful story teller who will make you laugh and wonder with her unique characters.
The blind Marquis is struggling to maintain his political seat and to obtain some control in the family home when he is surprised by the arrival of a woman whose voice not only brings him a sense of comfort but is also one he can tell when she is lying about herself. While she is around he also begins to see shadows and light. Who is she this woman of intrigue?
Harriet, or Chris, is devastated by yet another suitor’s rejection and on impulse she decides to take a walk. It is at this moment fate smiles down on Harriet when she meets Duncan Ives and the opportunity to leave home takes root. When Duncan hires “Christie” as an assistant he knows there is something she is hiding. “Christie” is so much bolder than Harriet and with this chance to become herself, Christie is finding she likes her new self. She is also finding that at the Ives home her senses of what others are feeling and the voices in her head are more heightened. ‘In no time at all, Christie is falling for Duncan’s twin sons and Duncan himself.
As the political enemies begin to play hardball by using the twins as pawns, Christie willingly places herself in jeopardy to save the family she has come to love. But Duncan won’t allow that as he has come to realize that he loves her as well.
As the Ives and the Malcom’s come together to fight their enemies a startling discovery regarding Christie’s family is unearthed by Aster. It is up to Duncan to decide if he can accept that secret.
I have always loved this blend of magic and science within these family ties. I like how it is the male Ives’ family home can cause the increased ability of the female Malcolm’s. It is also enjoyable to read of the eccentric characteristics the females tend to weld along with strong personalities. These families are strange in a sense to the times, yet they are powerful and accepted which lends to story’s development and enjoyment. Ms. Rice is a wonderful story teller who will make you laugh and wonder with her unique characters.
March 21, 2020
I guess I would call this book the end to the part one series, since it finally ties up the loose ends I was so unhappy with in the second book. The characters are delightful. Miss Chris is someone I can identify with, since my sister hit 5'10" by the time she was twelve (Her daughter is 6'1") and she hated being so tall for a woman. Like Miss Chris, she is hard-working, kind and generous, so I thoroughly enjoyed Miss Chris's character. I couldn't help but cheer her on. Ash has been in all three books and remains his usual acerbic self. The way the two interact holds one's interest all through the book. There were some scenes that I thought unnecessay filler, which slowed up the pace of the book, but I really enjoyed the rest.
May 18, 2019
H is very grumpy, blind and involved in trying political times. The h is a large wallflower, and when she decides to live her life as she wants, we see her blossom into an amazing person. The H soon relies on her, with his family, his ex-mistresses, their children and, importantly himself. There are so many characters and the pace is quick, but I really liked it because it was so much fun. Plus there are some wonderful tricksy twists.
March 3, 2017
** I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for my honest review **
The best book in the series so far. Each book in the series is better than the last. One of the things I love about the series is that the ladies are all unusual -- not just in their magical abilities, but in their looks. One is short and plump, one is elegant and of Jamaican descent, and the one in this book is large -- like a valkyrie warrior.
I was so happy to see Ash meet his match. He had every reason to be mad at the world and to bellow at the top of his lungs when things didn't go his way. Everybody tiptoed around him and/or avoided him. Everybody, that is, except Christie. She calmed him and began to teach him patience.
Ash was blinded in what he thought was an accident, but later learned that it was a deliberate act to stop him from implementing modern practices on his lands and to keep him from pursuing the political changes that he feels the country needs in order to prevent the same kinds of uprisings that took place in France.
Christie grew up without knowing any of her extended family. Her mother died when she was 12 and her step-father had raised her since then. He was NOT a kind step-father and really only wanted what he could get from her inheritance. He was trying to basically sell her for her inheritance, so she decided to run away and hide until her 25th birthday in six months - when she could inherit on her own.
I love Christie and Ash together. She is so self-conscious because of all the nasty things her step-father has said over the years -- but Ash can't see her -- and appreciates her for all of her wonderful qualities.
It is a great story and I hope everybody will read it and love it too.
The best book in the series so far. Each book in the series is better than the last. One of the things I love about the series is that the ladies are all unusual -- not just in their magical abilities, but in their looks. One is short and plump, one is elegant and of Jamaican descent, and the one in this book is large -- like a valkyrie warrior.
I was so happy to see Ash meet his match. He had every reason to be mad at the world and to bellow at the top of his lungs when things didn't go his way. Everybody tiptoed around him and/or avoided him. Everybody, that is, except Christie. She calmed him and began to teach him patience.
Ash was blinded in what he thought was an accident, but later learned that it was a deliberate act to stop him from implementing modern practices on his lands and to keep him from pursuing the political changes that he feels the country needs in order to prevent the same kinds of uprisings that took place in France.
Christie grew up without knowing any of her extended family. Her mother died when she was 12 and her step-father had raised her since then. He was NOT a kind step-father and really only wanted what he could get from her inheritance. He was trying to basically sell her for her inheritance, so she decided to run away and hide until her 25th birthday in six months - when she could inherit on her own.
I love Christie and Ash together. She is so self-conscious because of all the nasty things her step-father has said over the years -- but Ash can't see her -- and appreciates her for all of her wonderful qualities.
It is a great story and I hope everybody will read it and love it too.
January 3, 2018
Another great in a fun and inventive series. Duncan was a great hero. I liked Harriet's gift of empathy maybe the most of all I've read in this series, 6 so far. It's the most relatable for me. I didn't like her not realizing no one else experienced other’s emotions, like her, I thought that was unrealistic and overly naive. I loved the couples meet-cute and their romantic development. I thought she was perhaps too bold in the climax, but I enjoyed the drama and suspense. When Duncan was seeing her for the first time I was on the edge of my seat and very excited to see what would happen. I have read, probably, 12 books by Patricia Rice and I strongly recommend her as an author. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG.
Romance-5/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
Romance-5/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
October 23, 2017
4.5 stars. Adorable ensemble tale. All characters were fun, likable or sympathetic. Light on romance I suppose, but the household dynamics made up for it with energy and humour. Nice handling of a disability and the lifestyle changes it incurs.
December 28, 2020
Quite enjoyable with some unfortunate glitches
The author writes a goid story, but ... characters are initially confusing. It takes the reader a good while to piece who is who. Titles are incorrect; for instance, a marquess is heir to a duke and may also hold lesser titles. I'm no expert in British aristocracy, but the author needs a primer on titles. The inclusion of the marquess' two bastard sons during a time when noblemen were expected to have and support mistresses and illegitimate children is actually refreshing. Some errant apostrophes and improper capitalization show the need for a competent proofreader. However, the characters engage, the story flows at a good pace, and a touch of wry whimsy keeps it all from being dull and predictable. Overall, a good read.
The author writes a goid story, but ... characters are initially confusing. It takes the reader a good while to piece who is who. Titles are incorrect; for instance, a marquess is heir to a duke and may also hold lesser titles. I'm no expert in British aristocracy, but the author needs a primer on titles. The inclusion of the marquess' two bastard sons during a time when noblemen were expected to have and support mistresses and illegitimate children is actually refreshing. Some errant apostrophes and improper capitalization show the need for a competent proofreader. However, the characters engage, the story flows at a good pace, and a touch of wry whimsy keeps it all from being dull and predictable. Overall, a good read.
February 9, 2020
A really solid and entertaining find! I want to change all of the covers for this series but based on this book I plan to find the others for when the historical romantic mood strikes me!
December 31, 2020
It got better but I didn't find the writing particularly engaging. At the start it was hard to keep track of characters and I was confused and considered bailing.
I wouldn't call Ash and Harriet/ Christie's initial interactions romantic. Ash grabs and kisses her before there had been suitable build up of chemistry or before he knew she was on board. During one kiss Christie struggled so Ash touched her breast to try persuade her to stay. She's then apparently swept up in the moment but I wasn't comfortable with it. Fortunately their relationship becomes more romantic and equal as it progresses. They support each other in sweet ways.
Having the heroine consider herself as two separate names seemed a bit odd. She was Harriet when feeling 'cowardly' and Christie when acting 'brave'. Her character growth could have been better developed but she was likeable enough. It was interesting to have a hero with impaired eyesight but all his initial roaring and thundering seemed overdone.
There were some positive elements but overall this was only an Ok read for me.
I wouldn't call Ash and Harriet/ Christie's initial interactions romantic. Ash grabs and kisses her before there had been suitable build up of chemistry or before he knew she was on board. During one kiss Christie struggled so Ash touched her breast to try persuade her to stay. She's then apparently swept up in the moment but I wasn't comfortable with it. Fortunately their relationship becomes more romantic and equal as it progresses. They support each other in sweet ways.
Having the heroine consider herself as two separate names seemed a bit odd. She was Harriet when feeling 'cowardly' and Christie when acting 'brave'. Her character growth could have been better developed but she was likeable enough. It was interesting to have a hero with impaired eyesight but all his initial roaring and thundering seemed overdone.
There were some positive elements but overall this was only an Ok read for me.
August 2, 2016
I received a copy of this book through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers scheme.
Harriet flees her stepfather, who is trying to marry her off before she comes into the capital of her inheritance (in six months' time when she turns 25). He is also seeking to use her for personal and political aims. Harriet is tall and considers herself large and ugly. She meets blind Lord Ashton in the park, conceals her name and background and seeks a position in his household as a sort of administrator/secretary. Ashton is a big mover in getting Lord Grey made Prime Minister to usher in reform (I think this puts the timeline therefore just before the Reform Act of 1832.) Ashton knows she is lying, but employs her anyway.
I quite enjoyed the romance part of this story and it was a pleasant read generally once I got into it. The main problem for me was the fact that this story does not really stand alone that well. Characters in it have appeared (I gather) in previous "Unexpected Magic" and "Magical Malcolms" novels. I struggled at the beginning to keep all the relationships clear in my head and there were characters who were pretty irrelevant to the plot, who seemed to be in the book just because they had appeared in previous instalments.
Then there were the magical elements, which I should have expected I suppose, but from the blurb I had envisaged them playing less of a central role. I probably wouldn't have requested this novel, had I appreciated quite how "magical" things would become, but that's really my mistake. The way Ashton's household worked seemed extremely anachronistic for pre-Victorian times, as did some of the language, but if you overlook that there are some sweet moments.
Harriet flees her stepfather, who is trying to marry her off before she comes into the capital of her inheritance (in six months' time when she turns 25). He is also seeking to use her for personal and political aims. Harriet is tall and considers herself large and ugly. She meets blind Lord Ashton in the park, conceals her name and background and seeks a position in his household as a sort of administrator/secretary. Ashton is a big mover in getting Lord Grey made Prime Minister to usher in reform (I think this puts the timeline therefore just before the Reform Act of 1832.) Ashton knows she is lying, but employs her anyway.
I quite enjoyed the romance part of this story and it was a pleasant read generally once I got into it. The main problem for me was the fact that this story does not really stand alone that well. Characters in it have appeared (I gather) in previous "Unexpected Magic" and "Magical Malcolms" novels. I struggled at the beginning to keep all the relationships clear in my head and there were characters who were pretty irrelevant to the plot, who seemed to be in the book just because they had appeared in previous instalments.
Then there were the magical elements, which I should have expected I suppose, but from the blurb I had envisaged them playing less of a central role. I probably wouldn't have requested this novel, had I appreciated quite how "magical" things would become, but that's really my mistake. The way Ashton's household worked seemed extremely anachronistic for pre-Victorian times, as did some of the language, but if you overlook that there are some sweet moments.
August 13, 2016
I received this book as part of the Library Thing Early Reviewer program.
When I started the book I was very doubtful about what it would be like as the name did not really match the excerpt I read. But as i continued through the story, it started to make more sense. This is a light one-time read. The best part about this book is the main character Ashford who is an arrogant yet lovable. The story starts when Harriet Christie Townshend steps into his life pretending to be a companion. Harriet is trying to run away from Step Father who wants to get her married off. Eventually Ashford and Harriet realize that they are soul mates and understand each other better than anyone else.
Again the story is a nice romance.. good for a rainy evening.
When I started the book I was very doubtful about what it would be like as the name did not really match the excerpt I read. But as i continued through the story, it started to make more sense. This is a light one-time read. The best part about this book is the main character Ashford who is an arrogant yet lovable. The story starts when Harriet Christie Townshend steps into his life pretending to be a companion. Harriet is trying to run away from Step Father who wants to get her married off. Eventually Ashford and Harriet realize that they are soul mates and understand each other better than anyone else.
Again the story is a nice romance.. good for a rainy evening.
January 3, 2021
Whimsical and fun! I really liked Harriet's character embracing her more outgoing and take-charge persona "Chris" as the story went along. She still had to deal with insecurities and a poor self-image, but as the reader I get the feeling those won't be an issue for much longer as she settles into her HEA.
I love the way that Ash's blindness was described in the book and how he managed to get on in spite of it. The banter and relationship between the two main characters was great. Harriet definitely needed to use her gift as an empath to diffuse situations and understand the root cause behind Ash's difficult behaviour.
This is the second book I have read from this series and have absolutely enjoyed both.
This book contains descriptive love scenes.
I love the way that Ash's blindness was described in the book and how he managed to get on in spite of it. The banter and relationship between the two main characters was great. Harriet definitely needed to use her gift as an empath to diffuse situations and understand the root cause behind Ash's difficult behaviour.
This is the second book I have read from this series and have absolutely enjoyed both.
This book contains descriptive love scenes.
February 13, 2018
Excellent story
The Malcolm and Ives families make compelling partners. I especially like the blending of what could be viewed as magical with the basic understanding of science which would have begun blossoming during the time period. It's easy to look back now, nearly two centuries later, and chuckle at the primitive view of science, but then one had to consider how our understanding of the subject might be viewed two centuries from now. The truly interesting bit is that people remain remarkably the same, regardless of their level of available technology.
The Malcolm and Ives families make compelling partners. I especially like the blending of what could be viewed as magical with the basic understanding of science which would have begun blossoming during the time period. It's easy to look back now, nearly two centuries later, and chuckle at the primitive view of science, but then one had to consider how our understanding of the subject might be viewed two centuries from now. The truly interesting bit is that people remain remarkably the same, regardless of their level of available technology.
October 4, 2016
Blindness, overly endowed, reform and magic?
All combine to make an unforgettable journey penned by Patricia Rice who has quickly been added to my "favorite authors" list. Don't miss this trilogy. You won't regret it
All combine to make an unforgettable journey penned by Patricia Rice who has quickly been added to my "favorite authors" list. Don't miss this trilogy. You won't regret it
January 6, 2022
I want to preface this by saying don't let the three star review fool you. I really did enjoy this book! It made me laugh and smile and swoon and it was very good and I'm glad that I managed to find it. I did start with this one and it's the third book in a series. So there were a couple of things there in the very beginning that I think I would've understood and followed better had I read the first two before this one. But that didn't actually detract in anyway from this story itself.
Spoiler type things ahead (which if you read my reviews, you have probably come to expect.) Trying not to give a great deal away, but you've been warned!
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There were a couple things about this book that make it three instead of four stars for me. The first being that... and again, I started on this book so maybe not all of the men in this family are like this. But Ashford (Ash) roars/yells at everybody. Like... he has a temper and it really needs to be put in check. Which Christie tries to do, but there was still a bit much of it present for me. I'm not a fan of men in power who throw tantrums (), and then have basically no consequences for said actions. I give the book credit, because I do think by the end he could be on his way to getting over this... but it still feels like a long way coming.
Another thing, and this one likely is a spoiler so it's all getting blocked. It's more of a personal preference anyway, so read it, don't read it, do with it what you will. But it's also part of the reason this book is getting three stars.
The last thing... is basically that I can't wrap my head around how I don't think Christie is stupid... and yet she has what I consider an incredibly stupid moment. And that's going in a spoiler too because I'm mentioning her particular magical proclivity.
But I really did like this story. So many instances made me laugh. Especially when Christie goes about actually condoning Ash's temper from time to time.
I don't think I'll be continuing the series, but that's mostly because I don't want to spend the money to go back and read the previous books. If it was on k-unlimited, I might consider it. Alas, it is not, and so I will be moving on to try and read another of my freebie books that's taking up space in my kindle. But to anyone who does want to look into this series, I would suggest actually starting at the beginning. Like I said, I enjoyed this without having read the previous ones, but I do feel like I would've understood it slightly better if I'd started there.
Spoiler type things ahead (which if you read my reviews, you have probably come to expect.) Trying not to give a great deal away, but you've been warned!
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There were a couple things about this book that make it three instead of four stars for me. The first being that... and again, I started on this book so maybe not all of the men in this family are like this. But Ashford (Ash) roars/yells at everybody. Like... he has a temper and it really needs to be put in check. Which Christie tries to do, but there was still a bit much of it present for me. I'm not a fan of men in power who throw tantrums (), and then have basically no consequences for said actions. I give the book credit, because I do think by the end he could be on his way to getting over this... but it still feels like a long way coming.
Another thing, and this one likely is a spoiler so it's all getting blocked. It's more of a personal preference anyway, so read it, don't read it, do with it what you will. But it's also part of the reason this book is getting three stars.
The last thing... is basically that I can't wrap my head around how I don't think Christie is stupid... and yet she has what I consider an incredibly stupid moment. And that's going in a spoiler too because I'm mentioning her particular magical proclivity.
But I really did like this story. So many instances made me laugh. Especially when Christie goes about actually condoning Ash's temper from time to time.
I don't think I'll be continuing the series, but that's mostly because I don't want to spend the money to go back and read the previous books. If it was on k-unlimited, I might consider it. Alas, it is not, and so I will be moving on to try and read another of my freebie books that's taking up space in my kindle. But to anyone who does want to look into this series, I would suggest actually starting at the beginning. Like I said, I enjoyed this without having read the previous ones, but I do feel like I would've understood it slightly better if I'd started there.
October 20, 2019
Ash has been blinded by a recent accident and has been terrorizing everyone around him with his rage and fury. This is a man who has been fully involved in the management of his two large estates, a magistrate of his district and an active member of the House of Lords. Now he can’t even walk around his own house without help.
Harriet Christy Townsend is an heiress, who at 24, is still unmarried. She has been bullied and humiliated most of her life by her stepfather, who for the last 3 years, has been desperately trying to marry her off. Harriet is also an empath.
Ash has been bullied by his family to take a footman and go for a walk in the park. He is assaulted by a pickpocket, who he manages to thwart; and then abandoned by the footman, who goes chasing after the thief to detain him.
Harriet is in the park having fled her stepfather’s latest tirade about another lost suitor. She can sense Ash’s fury but also his underlying fear and humiliation. She approaches him under the guise of someone interested in tending the hand he injured punching the thief. As she walks Ash back to his house, she presents herself as a servant not a Lady, and asks if Ash’s family might know of someone needing a companion as she is about to loose her position in the Townsend household due to an upcoming wedding.
Harriet Christy Townsend is an heiress, who at 24, is still unmarried. She has been bullied and humiliated most of her life by her stepfather, who for the last 3 years, has been desperately trying to marry her off. Harriet is also an empath.
Ash has been bullied by his family to take a footman and go for a walk in the park. He is assaulted by a pickpocket, who he manages to thwart; and then abandoned by the footman, who goes chasing after the thief to detain him.
Harriet is in the park having fled her stepfather’s latest tirade about another lost suitor. She can sense Ash’s fury but also his underlying fear and humiliation. She approaches him under the guise of someone interested in tending the hand he injured punching the thief. As she walks Ash back to his house, she presents herself as a servant not a Lady, and asks if Ash’s family might know of someone needing a companion as she is about to loose her position in the Townsend household due to an upcoming wedding.
December 2, 2020
Duncan Ives, Marquess of Ashford, was blinded in an attack in the first book of this series and in this story meets his match. Frustrated by his inability to care for his vast estate, he moves to London with the intent to help lead reforms to help the common man. Harriet Stansbury is a plus size woman who has been rejected by her suitors despite her wealth so she decides to go into hiding for six months until she can take claim to her inheritance. Unexpectedly she take a position in the Ives household and with her Malcolm gift of empathy is able to anticipate Duncan's need and ease his way in his darkness. He can detect lies and knows immediately that Harriet is being untruthful, but is so intrigued that he keeps her close so he can solve her mystery. All around them swirls danger as opponents to the reforms try to destroy Duncan's creditibilty. This is another fun read in this series and I am already beginning book 4.
June 2, 2021
November 1830: Ash is in London pushing the reform movement for government, Christie is there for the little season as her stepfather tries to sell her off to get her lands from her dowry and feels rejected by all. When she sees Ash beat up a pickpocket while blind she is compelled to meet this man and also wishes to flee her belligerent stepfather until she turns 25 and claims her inheritance.
I was beginning to wonder where the story would go when the wedding happens to early in the book and realized there were many additional issues to address including Christie's gifts (yes, plural), being married to a blind raging political machine, and then all the forces acting against the reformist government being pushed. It is admirable that Malcolms support other Malcolms even when they are newly introduced and always creates this sense of belonging that is usually needed in these "magical" characters.
I was beginning to wonder where the story would go when the wedding happens to early in the book and realized there were many additional issues to address including Christie's gifts (yes, plural), being married to a blind raging political machine, and then all the forces acting against the reformist government being pushed. It is admirable that Malcolms support other Malcolms even when they are newly introduced and always creates this sense of belonging that is usually needed in these "magical" characters.
December 29, 2020
Misfitted for Each Other
Duncan is a blind and very angry marquess who is too proud to accept help. Harriet is a self-conscience (almost) spinster who keeps a magical gift hidden. Together these two misfits may just be what the other needs to complete them.
Although this novel is a bit too long, still the plot and characters draw the reader into their chaotic world. The pace only drags in a couple of places, but otherwise Patricia Rice deftly moves each scene along. Ms. Rice also does a great job of balancing dialogue, thoughts and descriptions so as not to make the reader want to skip pages, especially since in doing so the reader might just miss many of the humorous moments.
All in all, I enjoyed Theory of Magic.
Content 411: In addition to common swearing (h*ll, d*mn) there is also passionate kissing, sexual verbiage and sexual intimacy.
Duncan is a blind and very angry marquess who is too proud to accept help. Harriet is a self-conscience (almost) spinster who keeps a magical gift hidden. Together these two misfits may just be what the other needs to complete them.
Although this novel is a bit too long, still the plot and characters draw the reader into their chaotic world. The pace only drags in a couple of places, but otherwise Patricia Rice deftly moves each scene along. Ms. Rice also does a great job of balancing dialogue, thoughts and descriptions so as not to make the reader want to skip pages, especially since in doing so the reader might just miss many of the humorous moments.
All in all, I enjoyed Theory of Magic.
Content 411: In addition to common swearing (h*ll, d*mn) there is also passionate kissing, sexual verbiage and sexual intimacy.
January 1, 2021
This is a long story that is very involved and had 2 plots actually.
This was a very different story than I usually read but I did find it interesting along with the characters.
The main characters held my interest with their humorous banter and intellect and sharing of their emotions.
There were a lot of characters with a chaotic household and a tinge of magic or their special gift each person had.
It was a bit of fun filled with excitement, frustrations, kidnapping, descriptive intimacy, and so much more.
I did do some skipping of parts that didn't seem pertinent to the main plot.
The ending was worth reading and had a wonderful HEA.
Mature reader:
Descriptive Intimacy
Heat level 2 out of 5
This was a very different story than I usually read but I did find it interesting along with the characters.
The main characters held my interest with their humorous banter and intellect and sharing of their emotions.
There were a lot of characters with a chaotic household and a tinge of magic or their special gift each person had.
It was a bit of fun filled with excitement, frustrations, kidnapping, descriptive intimacy, and so much more.
I did do some skipping of parts that didn't seem pertinent to the main plot.
The ending was worth reading and had a wonderful HEA.
Mature reader:
Descriptive Intimacy
Heat level 2 out of 5
March 25, 2021
An explanation of Magic
I started reading this book because I thought that I recognized the name of the author and I must confess that this thought became secondary after I read the first chapter. It was no longer about the author, it became all about the book. I found the story to be a very good blend of mystery, intrigue, romance and magic. There were a few instances when I was surprised by statements that left me wondering about what I had overlooked in my reading (Celeste's Jamaican roots, Christie's ability to sense emotions). However, these did not detract from my enjoyment of Christie's transformation and self discovery.
The story quite quickly became a page turner for me. An enjoyable read.
I started reading this book because I thought that I recognized the name of the author and I must confess that this thought became secondary after I read the first chapter. It was no longer about the author, it became all about the book. I found the story to be a very good blend of mystery, intrigue, romance and magic. There were a few instances when I was surprised by statements that left me wondering about what I had overlooked in my reading (Celeste's Jamaican roots, Christie's ability to sense emotions). However, these did not detract from my enjoyment of Christie's transformation and self discovery.
The story quite quickly became a page turner for me. An enjoyable read.
December 31, 2020
Difficult circumstances
Ash has gone from on a stylish young lord, highly sought by society mothers for their darling daughters, to a recluse, seeing no-one but his own family. When his mother meets a young woman in need of a job, she sees her as having just the right personality for to deal with Ash. Christie is tall, big boned, and voluptuous; characteristics that have left her feeling large and unseemly. So when she's taken under Mrs. Astor's wing and into her home for what Christie doesn't realize is an interview, with a job offer attached, she is shocked and happy.
Such an intriguing plot and characters you'll love or despise, you'll be absorbed to the last page.
Ash has gone from on a stylish young lord, highly sought by society mothers for their darling daughters, to a recluse, seeing no-one but his own family. When his mother meets a young woman in need of a job, she sees her as having just the right personality for to deal with Ash. Christie is tall, big boned, and voluptuous; characteristics that have left her feeling large and unseemly. So when she's taken under Mrs. Astor's wing and into her home for what Christie doesn't realize is an interview, with a job offer attached, she is shocked and happy.
Such an intriguing plot and characters you'll love or despise, you'll be absorbed to the last page.
January 2, 2021
Original
As Georgian era romances go, this one is quite unique with its magical elements. I’m a late-comer to this series as this is book three so keeping all the characters straight was challenging in the first one third of the book. Overall, I enjoyed the uniqueness of the characters and the glimpses of English political history as England stands on the cusp of the Industrial Revolution.
By way of criticism, I felt that the Harriet/Christie character spent a bit too much time reminding us of her non-existent self-confidence. In fact there was a bit of repetitive overkill in developing both lead characters. Apart from that, I found this a satisfying read.
As Georgian era romances go, this one is quite unique with its magical elements. I’m a late-comer to this series as this is book three so keeping all the characters straight was challenging in the first one third of the book. Overall, I enjoyed the uniqueness of the characters and the glimpses of English political history as England stands on the cusp of the Industrial Revolution.
By way of criticism, I felt that the Harriet/Christie character spent a bit too much time reminding us of her non-existent self-confidence. In fact there was a bit of repetitive overkill in developing both lead characters. Apart from that, I found this a satisfying read.
January 12, 2021
How do you mesh politics and druids
I have no idea. But she did it. The characters are fascinating. The descriptions of the how household are absolutely wild. My only gripes are the underdeveloped villains and the giant cast of characters. There were so many moving parts that I couldn't understand the family tree. Or keep up with Aster, one of the female characters, and Ash the male lead. His name was Duncan and she uses it three times. I love Rice's writing but the give me a good story with six characters at the most.
I have no idea. But she did it. The characters are fascinating. The descriptions of the how household are absolutely wild. My only gripes are the underdeveloped villains and the giant cast of characters. There were so many moving parts that I couldn't understand the family tree. Or keep up with Aster, one of the female characters, and Ash the male lead. His name was Duncan and she uses it three times. I love Rice's writing but the give me a good story with six characters at the most.
January 20, 2021
I picked this up while it was free, despite it being a historical romance and #3 of a series.
I always approach these with trepidation. More often than not, I give up on them out of boredom (most of the time) or annoyance (the rest of the time). But, I liked that the hero's lost his sight, and how, and what it meant. I love the powers, and the heroine's trouble with hers. The plot is busy! So, although the language is wordy as is typical in historicals, I was kept entertained.
If you enjoy them, I can recommend this one, even though its editor failed it a bit in the last chapter.
I always approach these with trepidation. More often than not, I give up on them out of boredom (most of the time) or annoyance (the rest of the time). But, I liked that the hero's lost his sight, and how, and what it meant. I love the powers, and the heroine's trouble with hers. The plot is busy! So, although the language is wordy as is typical in historicals, I was kept entertained.
If you enjoy them, I can recommend this one, even though its editor failed it a bit in the last chapter.
July 10, 2021
I like finding characters a little out of the ordinary, Ash is blind, it always gets bonus points from me when a lead character has a disability. Christie is tall and plus sized, that's always great to see too. I liked seeing her gain in confidence as she seizes control of her life, and learns to accept herself, and value herself.
This has lovely touches of humour, and a gripping plot.
I haven't read the first two, and it would be of benefit slightly to read these in order I would say, but not strictly necessary.
Thoroughly enjoyed this.
This has lovely touches of humour, and a gripping plot.
I haven't read the first two, and it would be of benefit slightly to read these in order I would say, but not strictly necessary.
Thoroughly enjoyed this.
May 16, 2017
I had looked forward to Duncan's story for quite sometime. There is something about a blind hero that fascinates me. I was not disappointed. Rice continues to make me a happy reader with her newest magic series. All the books are great stand-alones, but why just read one when you can read them all?! I would definitely recommend this book for fans of historical romance. Patricia Rice is a great writer who is a master at character development.
March 28, 2018
This was the first book I read by Ms. Rice, intrigued by the combination of two genres I love as my guilty secret pleasure, Regency romance and magic. I loved it, so much I had to go get every book in this series and in the prior series. I was not disappointed in a single novel, every one of them had strong female characters with special magical talents, and their guys were forced reluctantly to acknowledge their own talents and those of their true loves. Great, unusual series!
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