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A review by luluwoohoo
The Magpie Lord by KJ Charles
adventurous
challenging
dark
funny
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
The Magpie Lord by KJ Charles (audiobook narrated by Cornell Collins)
☀️☀️☀️⛅
Happy Pride Month! This dark and humourous historical romance was an enjoyable palate cleanser of a book.
The opening scene of this book is harrowing, but Charles balances the dark gothic elements skillfully with humour and sexual tension. I found the mystery and the investigation intriguing, and the ending ultimately satisfying, though I would have appreciated a bit more detail on the magic system itself and how it operates.
Crane and Day are both interesting characters whose banter is enjoyable, especially when portrayed in audiobook form by Collins. I do wish their relationship was fleshed out a bit more, as the progression felt rushed. Merrick was an entertaining support character, but the others including the villain definitely could have used some more page time to help the reveal towards the end feel earned.
I had a good time listening to this and will endeavour to continue the trilogy - hopefully we get some more world building and relationship growth in the next installment.
☀️☀️☀️⛅
Happy Pride Month! This dark and humourous historical romance was an enjoyable palate cleanser of a book.
The opening scene of this book is harrowing, but Charles balances the dark gothic elements skillfully with humour and sexual tension. I found the mystery and the investigation intriguing, and the ending ultimately satisfying, though I would have appreciated a bit more detail on the magic system itself and how it operates.
Crane and Day are both interesting characters whose banter is enjoyable, especially when portrayed in audiobook form by Collins. I do wish their relationship was fleshed out a bit more, as the progression felt rushed. Merrick was an entertaining support character, but the others including the villain definitely could have used some more page time to help the reveal towards the end feel earned.
I had a good time listening to this and will endeavour to continue the trilogy - hopefully we get some more world building and relationship growth in the next installment.
"'I am in the process of nailing Mr Humphrey Griffin to the wall so thoroughly that future generations will mistake him for a tapestry. Currently, he is under the impression that his cooperation may incline me not to press for a lengthy prison sentence for embezzlement, malpractice, extortion, and perjury.'
'Will it?'
Crane smiled. "Not pleasantly, no, but it scarcely matters.'"