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A review by alassel
Shades of Milk and Honey by Mary Robinette Kowal
4.0
I don't usually put my light reading up on Goodreads, but this is one of the few exceptions. For starters, it's definitely G-rated and so is appropriate to share, and additionally it has a fascinating addition of magic into a lovely little Regency-style story. Our main character is a plain Jane with a beautiful sister, who is sure to become an old maid despite her considerable skill weaving glamour, which is used to enhance comfort and beauty amongst the nobility. All of the typical Regency romance elements are present, including sisterly affection and fights, mysterious men who might not be quite suitable for a young lady to know, dashing yet poorly behaved noblemen, a mystery that threatens the reputation of some young ladies, and outings and events with all of the characters. It was a fun, light read and I will likely pick up the second book in the series.
The system of magic, namely glamour, was beautifully described and felt very natural. There is a lot of discussion on how to use it, and how to put things together, including into permanent art installations known as glamurals. I was delighted with everything having to do with the magic, from Jane's own uses to make the drawing room appear pretty to the detailed theory of how a professional glamourist does his work. If you like interesting magic systems, that part alone will likely make this book worth a read.
The system of magic, namely glamour, was beautifully described and felt very natural. There is a lot of discussion on how to use it, and how to put things together, including into permanent art installations known as glamurals. I was delighted with everything having to do with the magic, from Jane's own uses to make the drawing room appear pretty to the detailed theory of how a professional glamourist does his work. If you like interesting magic systems, that part alone will likely make this book worth a read.