Bewitching Season by Marissa Doyle

“In 1837 London, young daughters of viscounts pined for handsome, titled husbands, not careers. And certainly not careers in magic. Shy, studious Persephone Leland would far rather devote herself to her secret magical studies than enter society and look for a suitable husband. But just as the inevitable season is about to begin, Persy and her twin sister discover that their governess in magic has been kidnapped as part of a plot to gain control of the Princess Victoria. Racing through Mayfair ballrooms and royal palaces, the sisters overcome bad millinery, shady royal spinsters, and a mysterious Irish wizard. And along the way, Persy learns that husband hunting isn’t such an odious task after all, if she can find the right quarry.”

I am a bit hesitant to write a review of this book. I actually did really enjoy the book, but can’t help thinking of a few things that bothered me. I thought the story idea was fun, but would have preferred if the whole thing had taken place in a fictional land instead of England. The magic in the story was really underdeveloped and could have been left out entirely. I think if it had taken place in a fictional place then the magic element could have been used a lot more. I started out liking Persephone. She is smart and magically gifted (more so than her twin Penelope). However, as the story moved on she becomes a little annoying. If she wasn’t complaining or feeling sorry for herself then she was just causing more trouble and alienating her sister. Neither sister seemed that concerned that their dear friend Ally has been kidnapped. For the majority of the story Ally (and their magical abilities) are absent.

I was surprised at the end when Ally ends up falling for one of her captures and I can’t help wondering if she is suffering from Stockholm syndrome. I had a hard time figuring out what she saw in him, she says “…here is a man I could love and respect.” What in the world is there to respect in a man who kidnaps you and would play a part in your possible death? She seems like someone who has really high standards and would do the right thing no matter what. Michael on the other hand is forced into a situation and instead of doing the right thing he caves. Maybe if more time had been spent with their relationship it would seem clearer, but for me it was a bit unbelievable.

I did enjoy the story and actually look forward to reading the next book, which luckily has Penelope as the main character.