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Subversive

Clandestine Magic, Book 1

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About this listen

A wizard. An unwilling assistant. An explosive secret.

In an America controlled by wizards and 100 years behind on women's rights, Beatrix Harper counts herself among the resistance - the Women's League for the Prohibition of Magic. Then Peter Blackwell, the only wizard her town has ever produced, unexpectedly returns home and presses her into service as his assistant.

Beatrix fears he wants to undermine the League. His real purpose is far more dangerous for them both.

Subversive is the first novel in the romantic fantasy Clandestine Magic trilogy, set in a warped 21st century that will appeal to fans of gaslamp fantasy, strong female characters, slow-burn romance with some steam, and intrigue.

©2020 Colleen Cowley (P)2021 Colleen Cowley Fantasy Fiction Magic Romance Science Fiction Magic Users Wizardry
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Set in an alternative USA. The author has made some interesting world building decisions building from the premise that wizards run the country, only men can be wizards, women are third class (wizards, non-magical men, women) citizens with few rights. I found it difficult to determine the year the story is set, possibly current day, but the clothing and social norms seem similar to 1920s. In a country where women can't vote or hold political office women's fashion is restrictive and uncomfortable (the main character walks through the woods barefoot rather than in the required high healed boots), contraception is illegal and sex outside marriage is taboo. The story subtly explores several dark themes including different types of coercive relationships and the value of life.

Interesting and subtly disturbing

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Listener received this title free

A intriguing storyline with an excellent narration. In an America where wizards run the government and women are second class citizens, Beatrice and her sister work for a ban all magic organisation. Peter Blackwell a local wizard returns from Washington with a secret. Intrigue, a love hate relationship, government conspiracies and betrayal litter this book. There are some quite dark themes of coercion and control between the two main characters.. A well written story set in a fascinating if uncomfortable world for a male reader and with an excellent narrator who brings the story to life with an easy to listen to voice. The story ends at a crucial discovery leaving the reader wanting more. received a complimentary copy from Storyorigin and am leaving a honest voluntary review

An enjoyable intriguing story

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