Brother's Ruin

January 23, 2017
Newman (After Atlas) takes a romp through the underbelly of a magical Victorian England in this flawed alternate history novella. Charlotte Gunn, an adept illustrator who wields an impressive type of magic, has grown up in a debt-ridden family. She conspires to give her brother a chance to impress the Royal Society of the Esoteric Arts, though her magical abilities far outstrip his. When she uncovers a nefarious plot, she must use all of her resources to protect herself and her family. Newman reworks the familiar idea of magical schools, breathing some new life into the premise by exploring the darker corners of London and their murky morality (mirrored by Charlotte’s willingness to bend and break the many rules restricting women of her era). However, some of the stylistic choices seem forced, and many of the descriptive passages are quite convoluted, distracting from an otherwise interesting plot. Urban fantasy enthusiasts might enjoy this novella, but several elements feel too familiar. Agent: Jennifer Udden, Barry Goldblatt Literary.

March 15, 2017

Those with magical abilities are required to turn themselves over to the Royal Society for the Esoteric Arts, but Charlotte Gunn just wants to live a normal life and get married. In debt to dangerous people, her father tells the society that his son is a Latent, believing Charlotte's brother was responsible for some of the abilities that Charlotte is trying to hide. Now she must decide whether her own personal freedom is worth risking her family's safety and security. Some of the narrative could have benefitted from a longer format, as the development of the supernatural elements and the minor characters of Charlotte's seemingly dull betrothed and the handsome Magus Hopkins need some fleshing out. VERDICT Newman (After Atlas; Between Two Thorns) uses the trope of a young woman rebelling against society's expectations, with the enjoyable switch that this time she wants to get married. Could there be a love triangle in the future? This gaslamp novella looks to be the start of a series, so perhaps readers will find out soon enough.--MM

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2017

Elements of steampunk pepper Newman's new series opener, set in 1850 Great Britain, but the gothic-style romance and generous helping of magic are what will draw teens. Attractive and self-assured, Charlotte Gunn is passionate about her work as an artist and plans to marry the dependable young man who's been courting her. But she is harboring dangerous secrets, including powerful magical abilities that are becoming harder to keep concealed. If the Royal Society of Esoteric Arts learns the truth, Charlotte will be forced into a life of servitude. Staying under the radar indefinitely is becoming increasingly unlikely, though, especially when her father can't pay off his debts. He intends to collect the past due amount by selling Charlotte's brother to the Royal Society as a mage. But her brother has little if any talent. When Charlotte discovers the debtor's deadly prison cell for clientele who can't pay up, she knows she must deal directly with the society to cover for her brother and save her father. Worse still, one of the members of the society may be linked to her father's debtors. Plus, another, disarmingly handsome member is taking particular interest in Charlotte. This is a satisfying story full of enticing possibilities and a promise of more to come. VERDICT A tempting mix of fantasy, mystery, and titillating romance, minus the raw sexuality, this novel is a good choice for young teens seeking a holiday read or weekend diversion.-Cary Frostick, formerly at Mary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church, VA

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.