Sunday, May 9, 2010

Review: UNCERTAIN MAGIC by Laura Kinsale


If you've never read a Laura Kinsale novel, read one. Now. I'd heard how wonderful her historical romances were, but, somehow, I never got around to reading one.

What a mistake.

Uncertain Magic is a vivid, atmospheric tale of deceptive appearances, high stakes, and wrenching emotion. Set in late Georgian England and Ireland, the novel adds Irish magic and mystery to a can't-put-down, sweeping drama of two misfits who find their fit with each other.

Roderica can read minds. The constant intrusion of others' thoughts is so painful, she fears she will never wed--until she encounters Faelan, "The Devil Earl", the only man whose mind is opaque to her power. Faelan needs money to resurrect his impoverished estate. Roderica has a large dowry. Without telling him of her unusual ability, she encourages him to seek her hand in marriage. Faelan harbors his own secrets. Is he really the devil, as his nickname implies?

Against the terror and tumult of the doomed 1798 Irish rebellion, Roderica and Faelan, afraid to trust each other, risk their love, their sanity, and their very lives.

Uncertain Magic was first published in 1987 and time hasn't diminished the power and appeal of this early paranormal. I especially like that Ms. Kinsale has written two of my favorite characters, the strong heroine and the wronged, decent hero.

Uncertain Magic is a keeper. I look forward to my next Laura Kinsale novel.

Thank you all,
Linda

ARC provided by Sourcebooks

2 comments:

Kaye Manro said...

This really sounds like a great read, Linda! I love to find books that hook me in so much that I can't put it down. And then I'm sorry when it's finished. Thanks for reviewing Uncertain Magic. In my experience I get so excited when I find a book that keeps my interest all the way to the end!

Linda Banche said...

Hi Kaye. I really enjoyed this book. If you care for this sort of story, I think you'll like it, too.