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Magical Malcolms #2
Must Be Magic
Feeling estranged from her magically gifted, blonde sisters, dark-haired beauty Lady Leila Staines is desperate to discover a similar talent of her own and sets out to enlist the assistance of Duncan Ives, a brooding aristocrat and outcast from society after being wrongfully accused of killing his wife. Original.
374 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2002
101 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Rice
153 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 49 reviews
July 23, 2012
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all of Patricia Rice’s books I’ve read so far, historical as well as paranormal. This latest re-issue from her Magic series is a good book, but for me it seems to lack that “something” I’ve found in her other stories lately. I’ve been wondering, since this is my first read of her earlier work, if perhaps it’s because she’s grown as an author over the ten years since this one was originally released. The one difference between the books from then and now that stands out for me is her voice. It’s much more lyrical today and gives books – especially her paranormals – more of an ethereal, sometimes haunting quality. And that’s what’s missing in Must Be Magic as I read it. But…
… don’t get me wrong here. Either way, then or now, Patricia Rice is an exceptional author. Her characters have layers of depth and her storylines are always intriguing. I still enjoyed Must Be Magic, despite that different voice I find in it. I love both the hero and heroine, each consumed with their own problems and mysteries, and then when they meet, they’re consumed with each other, all the while thinking they’d be better off without such complications. Ah, but the heart always has a different idea.
Lady Leila is a Malcolm – with no magic. She’s grown up the black sheep of the family, dark headed compared to all the blondes, and watching her mother, her siblings and other familial members use their magical powers day in and day out. But Leila, no matter how hard she tries, has never had even a twitch when it comes to magic. So she’s turning to developing perfumes and other fragrant items, because her sense of smell is beyond compare. To do all of that, she must plant roses and other flowers, carefully cultivate them to then prepare a personal scent for someone. However, there’s one small problem to begin her process. She needs an agronomist, and, according to her father, the best in all England is Dunstan Ives. Number one, Malcolms and Ives don’t mix well together – the Ives bring disaster to Malcolm doorsteps. Number two, this particular Ives is a suspect in his wife’s murder. Leila wants him anyway, and she’s going to have him, because after her latest crop has died, it’s apparent she does not have the green thumb necessary to grow anything.
Being a younger son with nothing to his name, Dunstan is tired of living off the graciousness of his older brother. He knows his scientific research will pan out if he can only find the land to grow his experimental turnips, which will help farmers feed the downtrodden in the future. So though he knows it’s something he shouldn’t do, Dunstan reluctantly accepts Lady Leila’s offer of the land he needs if he will also help grow her rose garden. Being around the woman, however, has him in a tizzy wanting her so, and he goes about his duties when she’s entertaining guests. That’s when he comes across Lily, an enchanting dark-haired servant who makes his blood boil. Lusting after two women is not what he signed up for. What he doesn’t realize until much later is that Leila and Lily are one and the same, which I found both fun and amazing at times that he didn’t put two and two together much sooner. But the fun between them when she’s Lily outweighs the disbelief he doesn’t recognize her without her powder and silk and satin.
I like that Leila is not shy when it comes to sex. She’s always seduced the men she’s wanted since becoming a widow, and now that she wants Dunstan, she goes about seducing him quite nicely. She even gets past his sense of honor of not wanting to ruin her reputation if she consorts with a murderer. When they do come together, watch out. Dunstan is one sensual, sexual man. Their lovemaking sizzles still when you’re two chapters beyond those scenes. Dunstan tries to stay away from Leila, but not once is he successful. He doesn’t want to have another illegitimate child; his fourteen-year-old son needs his father’s attention, as will another child who comes along. I love the scenes between father and son throughout the book, and when Dunstan finally realizes he just needs to be a father, his life comes together that much more for him. Thus, though he knows he has no right to Leila, and since he can’t protect her from himself, he does protects her from suitors who want her only for her money and land and also from her nephew who befriends such men. When she reveals she is pregnant, he knows he has to clear his name to be worthy of her and their child, so he heads to London.
There are number of other Ives and Malcolms running around these pages. I know eventually all got their own books, so it’s best to keep them straight here for the future. But they’re all quirky in their own way, willing to work to help out their loved ones with anything they want, only a few questions asked. There are a number of great scenes that will stay with you long after the reading is over. One is Dunstan and Leila standing their ground – literally – over the rose garden from Leila’s drunken guests, a good portion who are trying to woo her and who are also suspects, as far as Dunstan and Leila are concerned, in the murder. Both are magnificent as they try to protect the budding plants and each other, but it’s Dunstan who steals the show riding hell bent toward Leila to keep her safe.
All in all, this is a very good story. I just miss that lyricism that seems to have worked its way into Ms. Rice’s later works. That’s one of the biggest draws for me to read her books, along with her characters, and that’s definitely what saved the day in this story. Dunstan is larger than life and Leila knows her own mind, and they are quite perfect together.
Sourcebooks has very kindly offered up a copy of Must Be Magic to give away to one of our readers today (US and Canado only, please). So tell me, what’s that one magic moment you always wait for between a hero and heroine? A meaningful comment or response will put you in the running!
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
… don’t get me wrong here. Either way, then or now, Patricia Rice is an exceptional author. Her characters have layers of depth and her storylines are always intriguing. I still enjoyed Must Be Magic, despite that different voice I find in it. I love both the hero and heroine, each consumed with their own problems and mysteries, and then when they meet, they’re consumed with each other, all the while thinking they’d be better off without such complications. Ah, but the heart always has a different idea.
Lady Leila is a Malcolm – with no magic. She’s grown up the black sheep of the family, dark headed compared to all the blondes, and watching her mother, her siblings and other familial members use their magical powers day in and day out. But Leila, no matter how hard she tries, has never had even a twitch when it comes to magic. So she’s turning to developing perfumes and other fragrant items, because her sense of smell is beyond compare. To do all of that, she must plant roses and other flowers, carefully cultivate them to then prepare a personal scent for someone. However, there’s one small problem to begin her process. She needs an agronomist, and, according to her father, the best in all England is Dunstan Ives. Number one, Malcolms and Ives don’t mix well together – the Ives bring disaster to Malcolm doorsteps. Number two, this particular Ives is a suspect in his wife’s murder. Leila wants him anyway, and she’s going to have him, because after her latest crop has died, it’s apparent she does not have the green thumb necessary to grow anything.
Being a younger son with nothing to his name, Dunstan is tired of living off the graciousness of his older brother. He knows his scientific research will pan out if he can only find the land to grow his experimental turnips, which will help farmers feed the downtrodden in the future. So though he knows it’s something he shouldn’t do, Dunstan reluctantly accepts Lady Leila’s offer of the land he needs if he will also help grow her rose garden. Being around the woman, however, has him in a tizzy wanting her so, and he goes about his duties when she’s entertaining guests. That’s when he comes across Lily, an enchanting dark-haired servant who makes his blood boil. Lusting after two women is not what he signed up for. What he doesn’t realize until much later is that Leila and Lily are one and the same, which I found both fun and amazing at times that he didn’t put two and two together much sooner. But the fun between them when she’s Lily outweighs the disbelief he doesn’t recognize her without her powder and silk and satin.
I like that Leila is not shy when it comes to sex. She’s always seduced the men she’s wanted since becoming a widow, and now that she wants Dunstan, she goes about seducing him quite nicely. She even gets past his sense of honor of not wanting to ruin her reputation if she consorts with a murderer. When they do come together, watch out. Dunstan is one sensual, sexual man. Their lovemaking sizzles still when you’re two chapters beyond those scenes. Dunstan tries to stay away from Leila, but not once is he successful. He doesn’t want to have another illegitimate child; his fourteen-year-old son needs his father’s attention, as will another child who comes along. I love the scenes between father and son throughout the book, and when Dunstan finally realizes he just needs to be a father, his life comes together that much more for him. Thus, though he knows he has no right to Leila, and since he can’t protect her from himself, he does protects her from suitors who want her only for her money and land and also from her nephew who befriends such men. When she reveals she is pregnant, he knows he has to clear his name to be worthy of her and their child, so he heads to London.
There are number of other Ives and Malcolms running around these pages. I know eventually all got their own books, so it’s best to keep them straight here for the future. But they’re all quirky in their own way, willing to work to help out their loved ones with anything they want, only a few questions asked. There are a number of great scenes that will stay with you long after the reading is over. One is Dunstan and Leila standing their ground – literally – over the rose garden from Leila’s drunken guests, a good portion who are trying to woo her and who are also suspects, as far as Dunstan and Leila are concerned, in the murder. Both are magnificent as they try to protect the budding plants and each other, but it’s Dunstan who steals the show riding hell bent toward Leila to keep her safe.
All in all, this is a very good story. I just miss that lyricism that seems to have worked its way into Ms. Rice’s later works. That’s one of the biggest draws for me to read her books, along with her characters, and that’s definitely what saved the day in this story. Dunstan is larger than life and Leila knows her own mind, and they are quite perfect together.
Sourcebooks has very kindly offered up a copy of Must Be Magic to give away to one of our readers today (US and Canado only, please). So tell me, what’s that one magic moment you always wait for between a hero and heroine? A meaningful comment or response will put you in the running!
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
July 21, 2015
Rice continues to build the history of the Malcolm/Ives families in this second book of her Magic series. Great characters are peppered throughout the story, but I loved her strong female lead the best. Leila is not sure where she belongs in her family or for that matter the world at large. However, she has a dream and decides to go for it. Rice also puts much development into Dunstan whom we first met in the first book of the series. While I don't think it is necessary to read them in order, it is great to do so to see how the characters and their relationships and circumstance grow. Dunstan is a very delectable hero with just the right amount of vulnerability to make things interesting. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and their confidence in each other and in themselves. I loved this book even more than the first book in the series. This book also made me want to become a spelunker! ;)
June 17, 2012
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
Oh yes, there is magic—of pheromones, life from a tiny seed, family love, unique talents, secret places, and “meant-to-be” love that bides its time but will not be denied.
When a Malcolm woman and an Ives man make a deal that will allow each of them to work toward respective goals, Society is aghast. Leila and Durstan are each misfits, yet their families give unstinting support always and more so when they face tremendous odds.
Dunstan Ives, the most learned agronomist in England, is believed by many to be a murderer. Consequently, when the wealth widow Leila, Lady Staines, hires him as her estate manager, enemies contrive to derail their plans. Durstan hates being beholden to Lady Staines. But he has financial responsibilities; he needs to clear his name; and he also needs a place to bring to fruition his experiment with a special crop that will benefit poor farmers.
His surly ways irk Leila, but she weighs her irritation against her desires and decides to outmaneuver him so she can have her roses and pursue her dream.
Leila had conquered Society for her late husband’s sake and now she has solid social standing among the elite. However, all she wants is to live on her country estate, grow flowers—especially roses, so she can distill special scents that fit personalities. These scents prove to be the key that unlocks the secret to her “special gift”—what a gift it is!
Dunstan avoids and ignores the Lady of the Manor, Leila, as much as possible. To him she's a dangerous Malcolm who has a sultry regal elegance and even though she seems slightly vulnerable at times, she's tenacious in her determination to get what she wants.
Conversely, Dunstan lusts for the dark-haired woman called Lily in the red dress who digs in the dirt and protects baby rabbits. He’s attracted to her quick wit, lighthearted ways, provocative nature, and is rather amazed at her total lack of proper respect for authority. He doesn’t know how she fits in on the estate, but she sends his body into an agony of unrequited lust.
As Leila learns more about how to channel her gift, she begins to unravel some happenings that are a threat to her and to Dunstan, but she also uses it to have fun with Durstan in her own special way. She does get frustrated as they battle for control with both of them determined to get what they want.
Leila’s nephew who will get the estate should she remarry is a spoiled, undisciplined young man with an agenda all his own. He and his, so–called friends make life miserable for her. The life-threatening situations that flare up keep the reader on pins and needles.
Both the Ives and Malcolm families rally to the cause when Leila and Dunstan need them. These highly gifted people bring humor and excitement, as well as a no-nonsense determination and ability to protect their own. Dunstan’s son, Griffin, and his questionable relative, “Adonis”, bring complications and mystery to mix with all the other happenings. Of course, each the members of both families seem to have intriguing stories of their own.
Patricia Rice’s remarkable descriptions of places and people bring the story to life. She creates mesmerizing scenes that are breathtaking and truly magical. The grotto scene is one long to be remembered—gracious, how it quickens the senses. She weaves together fun, fear, and serious happenings along with captivating back stories as Leila and Dunstan’s beautiful love takes deep root and thrives. Her tantalizing symbolism and compelling metaphors make Must Be Magic enchanting. What a joy to read!
Oh yes, there is magic—of pheromones, life from a tiny seed, family love, unique talents, secret places, and “meant-to-be” love that bides its time but will not be denied.
When a Malcolm woman and an Ives man make a deal that will allow each of them to work toward respective goals, Society is aghast. Leila and Durstan are each misfits, yet their families give unstinting support always and more so when they face tremendous odds.
Dunstan Ives, the most learned agronomist in England, is believed by many to be a murderer. Consequently, when the wealth widow Leila, Lady Staines, hires him as her estate manager, enemies contrive to derail their plans. Durstan hates being beholden to Lady Staines. But he has financial responsibilities; he needs to clear his name; and he also needs a place to bring to fruition his experiment with a special crop that will benefit poor farmers.
His surly ways irk Leila, but she weighs her irritation against her desires and decides to outmaneuver him so she can have her roses and pursue her dream.
Leila had conquered Society for her late husband’s sake and now she has solid social standing among the elite. However, all she wants is to live on her country estate, grow flowers—especially roses, so she can distill special scents that fit personalities. These scents prove to be the key that unlocks the secret to her “special gift”—what a gift it is!
Dunstan avoids and ignores the Lady of the Manor, Leila, as much as possible. To him she's a dangerous Malcolm who has a sultry regal elegance and even though she seems slightly vulnerable at times, she's tenacious in her determination to get what she wants.
Conversely, Dunstan lusts for the dark-haired woman called Lily in the red dress who digs in the dirt and protects baby rabbits. He’s attracted to her quick wit, lighthearted ways, provocative nature, and is rather amazed at her total lack of proper respect for authority. He doesn’t know how she fits in on the estate, but she sends his body into an agony of unrequited lust.
As Leila learns more about how to channel her gift, she begins to unravel some happenings that are a threat to her and to Dunstan, but she also uses it to have fun with Durstan in her own special way. She does get frustrated as they battle for control with both of them determined to get what they want.
Leila’s nephew who will get the estate should she remarry is a spoiled, undisciplined young man with an agenda all his own. He and his, so–called friends make life miserable for her. The life-threatening situations that flare up keep the reader on pins and needles.
Both the Ives and Malcolm families rally to the cause when Leila and Dunstan need them. These highly gifted people bring humor and excitement, as well as a no-nonsense determination and ability to protect their own. Dunstan’s son, Griffin, and his questionable relative, “Adonis”, bring complications and mystery to mix with all the other happenings. Of course, each the members of both families seem to have intriguing stories of their own.
Patricia Rice’s remarkable descriptions of places and people bring the story to life. She creates mesmerizing scenes that are breathtaking and truly magical. The grotto scene is one long to be remembered—gracious, how it quickens the senses. She weaves together fun, fear, and serious happenings along with captivating back stories as Leila and Dunstan’s beautiful love takes deep root and thrives. Her tantalizing symbolism and compelling metaphors make Must Be Magic enchanting. What a joy to read!
August 14, 2025
From the moment Leila first laid eyes on Duncan Ives, she knew he was the one for her. Though he’s a specimen of a man, tall, dark and handsome – she doesn’t want him for his looks but rather for his horticultural expertise. Since the death of her husband and her inheritance of the land on his estate, she’s had a dream of creating a garden for all her flowers in hopes of living out her passion for perfume. But a gardener she is not and despite all her best efforts, her beautiful flowers keeps dying. So, she looks to Duncan Ives, a man with a soiled reputation and a man without anything left to lose.
Duncan doesn’t care whatever anyone thinks. He’s never been the type to enjoy social gatherings and doesn’t have the patience to suffer fools. His secret torments and doubts are his own but now that no one will hire the man suspected of murdering his wife, his only option for employment is the hardheaded, out spoken Leila Malcom. But though he doesn’t see any use in flowers, she is rich and able to provide him money to support his son and make his own profits from the land given to him to grow his own crops.
Together they are like gasoline and fire. Whenever they are together, the obvious attraction between them mixed with both of their stubbornness, flames erupt and despite their best attempts otherwise, they soon fall into a lover’s affair. Neither of them promising anymore to the other but the present, it still doesn’t stop a friendship and a great affection from developing. An affection that turns to love. But with Duncan’s suspected guilt and Lily’s thirst for freedom hanging over the heads, the journey ahead is long and wrought with dangers.
I found this book to be leaps and bounds of improvement over the first in the series. I loved Duncan’s harsh and firm exterior that started to crumble bit by bit as the story progressed. He was kind of heart, though he never lost his directness or bluntness. I enjoyed his personality immensely because he had the whole – I’m a grouchy antisocial man who doesn’t need the world or anyone in it – but at the same time, aware of Lily’s hopes and dreams and did everything in his power to her them and the lady herself.
I loved Lily as well. A woman who’s always felt like an outcast from the rest of her magical family. A woman who lives suppressed in a lot of ways and now has the freedom to own herself, her body and her passions. She could see through Duncan’s hard exterior and though he frustrated her endlessly, it doesn’t stop her from pursuing him. I really loved their relationship.
Duncan doesn’t care whatever anyone thinks. He’s never been the type to enjoy social gatherings and doesn’t have the patience to suffer fools. His secret torments and doubts are his own but now that no one will hire the man suspected of murdering his wife, his only option for employment is the hardheaded, out spoken Leila Malcom. But though he doesn’t see any use in flowers, she is rich and able to provide him money to support his son and make his own profits from the land given to him to grow his own crops.
Together they are like gasoline and fire. Whenever they are together, the obvious attraction between them mixed with both of their stubbornness, flames erupt and despite their best attempts otherwise, they soon fall into a lover’s affair. Neither of them promising anymore to the other but the present, it still doesn’t stop a friendship and a great affection from developing. An affection that turns to love. But with Duncan’s suspected guilt and Lily’s thirst for freedom hanging over the heads, the journey ahead is long and wrought with dangers.
I found this book to be leaps and bounds of improvement over the first in the series. I loved Duncan’s harsh and firm exterior that started to crumble bit by bit as the story progressed. He was kind of heart, though he never lost his directness or bluntness. I enjoyed his personality immensely because he had the whole – I’m a grouchy antisocial man who doesn’t need the world or anyone in it – but at the same time, aware of Lily’s hopes and dreams and did everything in his power to her them and the lady herself.
I loved Lily as well. A woman who’s always felt like an outcast from the rest of her magical family. A woman who lives suppressed in a lot of ways and now has the freedom to own herself, her body and her passions. She could see through Duncan’s hard exterior and though he frustrated her endlessly, it doesn’t stop her from pursuing him. I really loved their relationship.
June 15, 2024
A good, but massively overwritten novella that takes Asimovian concepts and stretches them to the logical conclusion.
September 2, 2015
For Dunstan and Leila's story the basic theme is about second chances. Both these characters have had a rough past - both for different reasons, but with each other they start to see possibilities. As with all her other Magic books, this book grabs you from the beginning and doesn't let go until you have reached the end. The book also has some really good mysteries to go along with it, which always makes the story interesting.
Whether you have read other books in this series or this is your first book, you will enjoy this book - these books can be read as the full series or independently. The book has the fun characters, great story line, and steady pace of books by Stephanie Laurens, Johanna Lindsey, Jo Beverly, and Kasey Michaels.
Whether you have read other books in this series or this is your first book, you will enjoy this book - these books can be read as the full series or independently. The book has the fun characters, great story line, and steady pace of books by Stephanie Laurens, Johanna Lindsey, Jo Beverly, and Kasey Michaels.
May 12, 2016
here's my favorite line: "They can't help themselves. Sex is always upppermost in their minds. One must simply dig past it to their brains." in other words: men were and are men - still. i loved both the main characters. having recently "discovered" this author, i'm working my way forward through her books -- and enjoying myself! this one was a little slow and the explanation of what happened at the murder could have been more clear. overall, this was a very satisfying story, and i recommend it.
July 22, 2014
I read and enjoyed this books' sequel, The trouble with magic, and enjoyed it so I tried this book. Ugh. The fantasy element (which was one of the appeal factors for Trouble) is much, much smaller in this one. And Dunstan, this hero, is much less appealing. I think he's not very smart, and he's consistently rude to our heroine, Leila, just because.
I don't think I'll bother with the rest of the series.
I don't think I'll bother with the rest of the series.
November 15, 2021
This book is a totally unexpected take on the super natural, that I throughly enjoyed. This is the second book in the Magical Malcolms series, which I didn't know when I started listening too it. Having said that I can honestly say that this book is one that could be listened to or read as a stand alone. A widow in Regency England is determined to keep her freedom and not marry again, a man accused unformally of murdering his wife is trying to clear his name while supporting his illegitimate son. Throw them together with a little magic mixed in, an attraction growing between the two and the mystery of who actually killed his wife and you have a reciepe for some heart racing moments. This book touches on a lot of things, it will make you feel. I can honestly say that I was on pins and needles throughout a good chunk of the story and throughly enjoyed all the twists and turns. This story is a Serrano pepper with a few explict spicey scenes in the book as well as a well written plot. I give this 5 out of 5 stars for orginallity and the well written mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a Regency Romances, a little witch magic or a great mystery. This is one that will havee your blood humming form the chemestry of the two lead characters and the anticipation of what could happen with the murder mystery.
I hope this helps you find your next Tantalizing Tome.
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes a Regency Romances, a little witch magic or a great mystery. This is one that will havee your blood humming form the chemestry of the two lead characters and the anticipation of what could happen with the murder mystery.
I hope this helps you find your next Tantalizing Tome.
October 19, 2020
I really enjoyed Dunstan's story!! I read these books when they came out, and now thanks to Audible plus I am listening one after the other. It is also helping me exercise more as I listen while I swim and walk, and I walked longer tonight to finish. Leila is the only dark haired Malcolm, and she doesn't think she has magic, but it turns out she has powerful magic. She can feel others feelings, but didn't ever realize others couldn't. She is a widow, and Dunstan is a widower who has been accused of killing his wife, so this is a bit of a mystery. The year is 1750 and the descriptions of the clothes and wigs is quite interesting. The other interesting thing is that acceptance of bastards and lovers. I do love the stories of the Malcolm's and Ives that Rice follows right up to the present.
May 7, 2023
Book number two in this series has us looking in on the next oldest Ives brother Dunstan. He has recently been subjected to criticism and wrongly suspected of killing his wife . After being dismissed from his latest job because of those nasty suspicions, he is offered a position by the widowed Lady Leila Staines, a member of the Malcolm family. Having vowed to never succumb to the bewitching spell of a beautiful woman ever again, the beguiling Lady Leila makes him an offer no man in his position can resist. This was a great story to continue the series. Leila and Dunstan suited each other perfectly. Great storyline and great caste of supporting characters. Looking forward to seeing which Ives brother or Malcolm witch will be featured next.
February 3, 2020
Leila thinks she has no Malcolm talent. The only black-haired female in the family and a siren to the males in society, she marries and is widowed. Her troubles start there. I really loved the way Dunstan, also previously married and widowed, helps her to understand that no one else smells fear or lust or cowardice, etc. She has always taken it for granted that everyone had that gift. Lovely book with a Pollyanna feel as things get corrected and Duncan and Leila are both saved from their lonely lives.
July 3, 2020
3.5, round up
Generally enjoyable. I appreciated the slightly older couple (a widow and widower), the unusual inclusion of an illegitimate child, and that the female character was given sexual agency throughout. I did find the mystery easy to decipher and thought Dunstam was a little too driven by his lusts (though I did like how he fully owned that he went brainless in the presence of an attractive woman).
This is book two in a series and I was able to read it easily, even without having read book one. I'll happily read the rest of the series.
Generally enjoyable. I appreciated the slightly older couple (a widow and widower), the unusual inclusion of an illegitimate child, and that the female character was given sexual agency throughout. I did find the mystery easy to decipher and thought Dunstam was a little too driven by his lusts (though I did like how he fully owned that he went brainless in the presence of an attractive woman).
This is book two in a series and I was able to read it easily, even without having read book one. I'll happily read the rest of the series.
July 20, 2019
Lovely
The only dark haired Malcolm in the family wants to discover her special magical gifts and thinks a rose garden is the way to do it so she hires the best man to help her...an Ives who many believe killed his faithless wife. He's not even sure he didn't do it. Meanwhile her wretched nephew is determined to see her remarry to anyone at all so he can regain his home that she inherited and can keep so long as she remains single.
The only dark haired Malcolm in the family wants to discover her special magical gifts and thinks a rose garden is the way to do it so she hires the best man to help her...an Ives who many believe killed his faithless wife. He's not even sure he didn't do it. Meanwhile her wretched nephew is determined to see her remarry to anyone at all so he can regain his home that she inherited and can keep so long as she remains single.
July 13, 2017
4.5 stars
Two familys, the dark brooding men of the Ives family and the eccentric magical women of the malcolm clan come together in this book via Dunstan Ives and Leila Staines. Both are outsiders in society. There family drama, theft and murder. This book is set in 18th century England, a period I enjoy reading about. I will be reading other books in this series
Two familys, the dark brooding men of the Ives family and the eccentric magical women of the malcolm clan come together in this book via Dunstan Ives and Leila Staines. Both are outsiders in society. There family drama, theft and murder. This book is set in 18th century England, a period I enjoy reading about. I will be reading other books in this series
February 20, 2018
Always entertaining
Dunstan and Leila are perfect for each other. I really like that they are a both a little older and more more experienced than the debutante that historical romances do often revolve around. I think it gives them a greater depth of character and experience to draw upon. As usual, a very good read.
Dunstan and Leila are perfect for each other. I really like that they are a both a little older and more more experienced than the debutante that historical romances do often revolve around. I think it gives them a greater depth of character and experience to draw upon. As usual, a very good read.
August 22, 2020
Lady Leila Saines is a widow with some property that she wants to turn into a flower garden.
Dunstan Ives is a widower, who is hiding from the cruel rumors that he murdered his wife.
The mystery part of Rice's plot is no very strong.
I preferred the fantasy elements which were believable within the Regency Era setting.
Dunstan Ives is a widower, who is hiding from the cruel rumors that he murdered his wife.
The mystery part of Rice's plot is no very strong.
I preferred the fantasy elements which were believable within the Regency Era setting.
February 19, 2017
Must be Magic
Second in a series. Did not live up to the momentum of the first book. Same two families, mostly the same characters, but the focus and the characters were not interesting enough to hold my attention. It was a chore to finish this book.
Second in a series. Did not live up to the momentum of the first book. Same two families, mostly the same characters, but the focus and the characters were not interesting enough to hold my attention. It was a chore to finish this book.
September 9, 2021
I am so glad I decided to read this series as Ms. Rice republishes them. I have read two of the newer Malcolm/Ives series and starting at the beginning has been illuminating. The quirky characters, deep relationships and all the magic keep me fully entertained. Really looking forward to book 3.
October 19, 2025
Set in 1735 England, the romance between Leila and Dunstan is very good. They are such different people with they're interest which makes for a lot of interest. Leila magic is fun and enjoyable. They're trying to find a murderer which makes for lots of mystery. Very good.
April 17, 2018
A fun piece of magical fluff---romance, mystery and other worldliness.
July 15, 2018
Reminds me of stories by Amanda Quick.
December 30, 2019
I mean I GUESS
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2021
I like this mix of magic and historical romance. I enjoyed this more than book 1 simply because I knew the background a bit more and I liked Duncan more than Drogo.
June 7, 2021
I enjoyed this series more the first/second time around...I like it but I wish there was more fantasy and less men complaining my about how irrational and crackbrained the woman are.
July 30, 2021
I love it
January 23, 2022
Another great book in this series. I enjoyed getting to know more about the characters and their interactions with each other. Definitely reading the next book in the series.
January 8, 2023
very good
June 9, 2012
My Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Full Review: http://www.twimom227.com/2012/06/revi...
Lady Leila Staines is widow and a Malcolm. She is cousin of Ninian, who was heroine in the first book, Merely Magic. Dunstan Ives is the brother of Drogo Earl of Ives, hero from first book. Although this is the second book in the series, it most definitely can be read as a stand alone.
Leila has questioned her "Malcolmness" her entire life... She has dark hair, while all other Malcolm females are blonde. She doesn't seem to have any talents (magics), but she has an acute sense of smell. Her life dream is to create her own perfumes, but her late husband refused to support her. Now that he is gone, she has hired Dunstan, the best agronomist in England, to get her flowers to grow.
Dunstan has a black cloud above his head. His high-society (adulteress) wife, Celia, was murdered and most think Dunstan is responsible. He has some interest in clearing his name for the sake of his son, but he is a little worried he may be guilty. He takes the job with Leila so he can make enough money to hire an investigator.
Must Be Magic opens strong and jumps right into the plot. I enjoyed the determination in Leila from the get go - she wants so badly to have her own talents, and she knows in her heart that she needs the roses to make it happen. She is accustomed to the upper class lifestyle, but prefers to hide among her flowers without the make up, powdered wigs and fancy clothing.
The story is filled with wonderful dialogue and scenes. One of my favorites is when Lily/Leila and Dunstan come together for the first time. It was in a heated spring and the steam coming off the pages was extremely sensual. Soon after, Dunstan learns the truth of who Lily is and confronts her. Although he gives her a hard time about misleading him, he cannot stop himself from wanting her. He tries his best to put up a wall, but their mutual desire is palpable. The words left me aching for Dunstan!
Over all, Must Be Magic is a lovely romantic tale wrapped around a murder mystery. I adore that Dunstan acknowledges Leila's gifts rather than makes excuses for them. They each embrace the uniqueness of the other, and together they are a formidable pair. They are equals from the beginning, and although they don't always listen to each other during the book, there is always respect for differences and of talents. I think this is what made this one so enjoyable.
Full Review: http://www.twimom227.com/2012/06/revi...
Lady Leila Staines is widow and a Malcolm. She is cousin of Ninian, who was heroine in the first book, Merely Magic. Dunstan Ives is the brother of Drogo Earl of Ives, hero from first book. Although this is the second book in the series, it most definitely can be read as a stand alone.
Leila has questioned her "Malcolmness" her entire life... She has dark hair, while all other Malcolm females are blonde. She doesn't seem to have any talents (magics), but she has an acute sense of smell. Her life dream is to create her own perfumes, but her late husband refused to support her. Now that he is gone, she has hired Dunstan, the best agronomist in England, to get her flowers to grow.
Dunstan has a black cloud above his head. His high-society (adulteress) wife, Celia, was murdered and most think Dunstan is responsible. He has some interest in clearing his name for the sake of his son, but he is a little worried he may be guilty. He takes the job with Leila so he can make enough money to hire an investigator.
Must Be Magic opens strong and jumps right into the plot. I enjoyed the determination in Leila from the get go - she wants so badly to have her own talents, and she knows in her heart that she needs the roses to make it happen. She is accustomed to the upper class lifestyle, but prefers to hide among her flowers without the make up, powdered wigs and fancy clothing.
The story is filled with wonderful dialogue and scenes. One of my favorites is when Lily/Leila and Dunstan come together for the first time. It was in a heated spring and the steam coming off the pages was extremely sensual. Soon after, Dunstan learns the truth of who Lily is and confronts her. Although he gives her a hard time about misleading him, he cannot stop himself from wanting her. He tries his best to put up a wall, but their mutual desire is palpable. The words left me aching for Dunstan!
Over all, Must Be Magic is a lovely romantic tale wrapped around a murder mystery. I adore that Dunstan acknowledges Leila's gifts rather than makes excuses for them. They each embrace the uniqueness of the other, and together they are a formidable pair. They are equals from the beginning, and although they don't always listen to each other during the book, there is always respect for differences and of talents. I think this is what made this one so enjoyable.
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