Lady of Magick (#2)
In a nineteenth-century Britain shaped by magicks both ancient and new, three uneasy heroes find themselves caught in the plots of a foreign nation, with their lives—and loves—at risk…
Sophie Marshall, Princess Royal of Britain and the only woman student at Oxford, wants nothing more than to learn without constant scrutiny. When her husband, Gray, is invited to teach shapeshifting in more equitable Alba, she leaps at the chance for more freedom. Still, Alba has problems of its own, warns Joanna, her sister who’s apprenticing in statecraft: famine, unrest, and divisive news to come. And Sophie isn’t the only scholar with secrets.
The Marshalls’ delight in exploring a lively, cosmopolitan university community is shadowed with rumors no one will discuss: of clan upheavals, strange powers from the land, blights on crops and livestock. When she and Gray are forced to separate, Sophie questions even her own suspicions. But once Joanna arrives in Alba with her mercurial friend, Gwendolen, the danger is past doubting. Armed only with subtlety, cleverness, and outrageous daring, the women will have to travel through a hostile countryside, find Gray, and root out a conspiracy that threatens their survival—and Alba’s future.
Reviews
“Entertaining. . .Sophie and Joanna play central roles, which will delight fans of strong women. Hunter’s charming world, just a few steps off-center of our own, continues to offer many possibilities for future adventure.”
“Another intriguing fantasy set in an alternate history version of Regency-era Europe.”
“The second installment in Hunter’s Noctis Magicae series will attract both familiar and new readers. The new kingdom of Alba is a stark contrast to Hunter’s version of Britain but every bit as creative and fascinating, allowing for a completely new and unexpected plot. The characters continue to grow and change, as individuals and as a couple, as they face both magical and personal challenges. A new twist in every chapter will keep readers desperately turning pages until the end.”RT Book Reviews
“This was a great fantasy read. It was very quick and well I will have to track me down a copy of both books now. Fans of Robin McKinley will enjoy this one as well. I know I did [...] The author did a wonderful job continuing the story. With magic, romance, and mystery this is sure to make your toes curl.”
“Ms. Hunter has done it again! I enjoyed this second installment in the hauntingly beautiful and mysterious Noctis Magicae series […] I was lost in the world. I found it difficult to put down, as I eagerly wanted to know what was in store for Sophia and Grey. I feel as if there is still so much left for them as they continue on striving for a happily-ever-after […] If you enjoy historical mysteries within fantasy world, look no further and give the Noctis Magicae a try.”
“LADY OF MAGICK introduces a new kingdom in the Noctis Magicae world, and does a wonderful job of expanding the alternate UK that Sylvia Izzo Hunter established in the first book […] If you have even a passing interest in Regency era Scotland, I promise you’ll find Alba and its people absolutely riveting […] [LADY OF MAGICK is] well written and atmospheric, and expands on world building and characters alike. If you’re not reading this series and you like historical fantasy, I highly recommend it!”
“Fans of fantasy and romance need look no further than Sylvia Izzo Hunter’s Lady of Magick for an entertaining read full of royal intrigue, daringly disobedient young ladies, and regional politics [...] The author also does a credible job of weaving the intricate threads of world-building and characterization to produce a substantial, yet still thoroughly diverting tale of drawing rooms, state lines, family ties, and ancient power. 5 Stars – Stay up All Night”Read Now, Sleep Later
“Strong world-building and impressive character development make Lady of Magick by Sylvia Izzo Hunter stand out [...] The quality of the writing is an easy 5/5.”