The first book in Barnett’s Regency Magic series was originally published in 1993. I read it many years ago as part of book club discussion. I’d never read Jill Barnett, but the title came highly recommended by a trusted friend. As usual, that trusted friend’s recommendation did not disappoint! Joyous MacQuarrie is a “pixie-like, green-eyed beauty” that mysteriously appeared in the life of Alec, the Duke of Belmore’s life. He fell helplessly in love with Joy and much to the chagrin of his society friends, set about marrying the girl.
Joy, as her name implies, filled Belmore Park with laughter and a lively spirit, something Alec was sorely lacking. She gave him a brightness and lightness, his noble life had often eschewed for formality and societal constructs. It was a glorious and “Joyous” thing until Alec learned our dear sweet Joy was a witch. She had somewhat inadvertently bewitched this grouchy handsome man, and there was no going back for either’s heart. Much like Alec, I entirely and irreparably fell in love with Joy and her infectious giddiness.
I’d be remiss if I failed to point out, Joy has somewhat questionable control over her powers. Her spells hardly ever turn out as she plans, but that only adds to the humor of this story. If you enjoy a fun, fast-paced story filled with laughter, steam and a very grouchy hero that sometimes says terrible things because he doesn’t know how to love, and has his world turned upside down (sometimes literally) by a sweet and caring woman who makes him see the light, then Bewitching is the book for you! In fact, I think Joy may have cast a spell on me, I believe I feel a re-read coming on!
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