Allison Saft crafts a Regency England-inspired fantasy world, reminiscent of Bridgerton, with her new book, “A Fragile Enchantment.” With a love story as devastatingly romantic as Kate and Anthony’s, readers will be enchanted with protagonist Niamh and her spell-binding creations in this YA fantasy romance.
Niamh, a popular seamstress/dressmaker who imbues enchantments in all of her wares, is hired by the Prince Regent and commissioned to complete wedding wear for his younger brother, the groom, Prince Kit Carmine, and his betrothed, Infanta Rosa. Niamh quickly finds herself getting acquainted with court politics, as tensions are brought to a head between Machlish staff and the Prince Regent, who is desperately hiding something from his brother and the rest of the court. Niamh is propositioned by Lovelace, an anonymous gossip rag writer (again, reminiscent of Lady Whistledown) to help uncover the intentions of the Prince Regent and groom. Amidst the broiling pressures of an impending conflict between Machlish workers and the Crown, Niamh finds herself drawn to Prince Kit, despite her efforts to stay away.
Saft crafts a bewitching novel that delivers on tropes romance readers crave: enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, and forbidden love. Saft’s lyrical writing adds an additional layer of whimsy to this tale, that it’s difficult not to get swept away in this story of longing and intrigue. (Niamh’s final creation - the groom’s wedding cloak - and all of her intentions that were weaved into it had me misty-eyed!) The author also expertly intertwines themes of mental health, addiction, systemic oppression, and familial trauma, while never losing focus of the love story between Niamh and her prince.
“A Fragile Enchantment” is a must-read for Bridgerton fans and romance readers alike who are looking for a heart-felt, magical tale about love overruling duty.
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