The Magicians and Mrs. Quent

The Magicians and Mrs. Quent is one of the most thoroughly engrossing novels I've read lately, though I did think it relied too much on characters not providing as much helpful information as they could have in order to control the plot or draw out mysteries. However, the first thing I did after finishing it was order the next two books because I really want to know what happens next!

It's split into three books that are connected but distinctly different from each other in style and/or focus. The first is a fantasy of manners reminiscent of Jane Austen with a focus on society, relationships, and class inequality. The next part is Gothic fantasy reminiscent of Jane Eyre told entirely from Ivy's first person perspective rather than following three different protagonists like the other parts, and the last has more in common with traditional high fantasy with magick and political focus.

Though the book follows three main protagonists, it's primarily Ivy's story and I loved reading about her most of all. I knew I was going to like her from the very first line:

It was generally held knowledge among the people who lived on Whitward Street that the eldest of the three Miss Lockwells had a peculiar habit of reading while walking.

In addition to being a reader, Ivy is clever, courageous, and determined–and I can't wait to continue her story in the next book!

Full Review on My Website