Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Sorcery and Cecelia or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot


Hola from Spain! Both Nathan and I are abroad with spotty internet connections. We'll post whenever we can (I'll try now that I'm settled with my host family), but thing might not be happening frequently. It will get better... I promise.

A great deal is happening in London this season.
For starters, there's the witch who tried to poison Kate at Sir Hilary's induction into the Royal College of Wizards. (Since when does hot chocolate burn a hole straight through one's dress?!)
Then there's Dorothea. Is it a spell that's made her the toast of the town--or could it possibly have something to do with the charm-bag under Oliver's bed?
And speaking of Oliver, just how long can Cecelia and Kate make excuses for him? Ever since he was turned into a tree, he hasn't bothered to tell anyone where he is!
The girls might think it all a magical nightmare . . . if only they weren't having so much fun.

Beth says 5 Stars...

This is very possibly the cutest book in existence. It's simply oodles of fun, and it makes ME, the chemistry loving feminist that I am, want to debut in London. Plus it has two possible titles. Come on. The format of the book is part of its appeal; it's written in the form of letters between two cousins, one who is at home at the country estate and the other who is having her season in London. Of course, various hijinks and balls ensue. All of this leads to a delightful plot, which flows well from both perspectives. The magic is present, but isn't in the forefront. The world is full of gentlemen wizards who do things like work with the Duke of Wellington instead of slaying dragons.

The characters are simply delightful. Kate and Cecy are warm and funny while taking you on their adventures. It really feels like you are browsing through the correspondence of some friends instead of reading something that doesn't exist. The leading men are fantastic as well. I show a preference for the hilariously sardonic Thomas, but there's nothing wrong with James. I simply like a bit of cynicism with my mysterious (or odious) Marquis. The aunts are so much fun, and I love how their personalities are so distinct. They fill the same role in completely different ways.

This is the perfect book for summer. It's light and fluffy, but won't do anything to bring down your IQ. Take it to the beach, or anywhere, but just read it. It's a fairly quick read so then it's time for the next two in the series. This one is definitely for girls and would make a great gift as well. Basically, it's awesome and is a summer must-read.

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