In Ava Marie Salinger's Arcane Entanglement, the first book in The Mage and His Brute series, magic permeates a Victorian London rife with social inequality. Archmage Duke Evander Ravenwood, concealing his immense power, finds his life irrevocably altered by a murder investigation that forces an alliance with Viggo Stonewall, the ruthless leader of the Nightshade guild. Their unlikely partnership plunges them into a conspiracy threatening to shatter their world. Amidst political turmoil and prejudice against magical thralls, a forbidden attraction ignites between Evander and Viggo. Their burgeoning romance becomes a powerful weapon against their enemies, but can their love survive the treacherous landscape of magic, mystery, and deadly secrets? Prepare for a captivating blend of historical fantasy and LGBT romance.
Review Arcane Entanglement
Arcane Entanglement, the first book in The Mage and His Brute series, completely swept me away! I found myself utterly captivated by the blend of historical fantasy, intriguing mystery, and a slow-burn romance that kept me eagerly turning the pages. The world-building is truly exceptional; Ava Marie Salinger paints a vivid picture of an alternate Victorian London where magic is not only real but intricately woven into the very fabric of society. This isn't just a magical London; it's a London sharply divided between the magically empowered and the oppressed thralls, creating a rich tapestry of social and political tensions that form the backdrop to the story.
The characters are what truly make this book shine. Evander, the powerful Archmage hiding in plain sight, and Viggo, the hardened leader of the Nightshade guild, are polar opposites drawn together by circumstance and a burgeoning attraction that crackles with undeniable chemistry. Their relationship is the heart of the story, a slow burn that feels both believable and intensely satisfying. I loved the way their contrasting personalities and experiences complement each other, creating a dynamic that's both intriguing and heartwarming. It's not just the main characters that impressed; the supporting cast feels equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative. Their interactions feel natural and organic, contributing significantly to the immersive quality of the book.
The plot itself is cleverly constructed, expertly balancing the romantic elements with a compelling mystery that unfolds gradually, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. The investigation into the brutal murder serves as a catalyst for Evander and Viggo’s growing connection, while simultaneously unraveling a wider conspiracy that threatens to destabilize their entire world. The pacing is excellent; the story never drags, and the blend of action, investigation, and romance keeps the reader constantly engaged. I especially appreciated the author’s deft handling of heavier themes like classism and discrimination, which are woven organically into the narrative without feeling preachy or overly didactic. The inclusion of these themes adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it more resonant and thought-provoking.
While some readers found certain aspects, particularly the level of explicit content, to be more graphic than they preferred, I personally found the intimacy to be a fitting reflection of the characters' connection and the intensity of their feelings. The ending, though a cliffhanger, left me incredibly eager for the next installment. The unresolved mysteries and the promise of further development for both the romance and the overarching plotline left me with a palpable sense of anticipation. Overall, Arcane Entanglement is a highly enjoyable and well-crafted read. The world, the characters, and the story itself all contribute to a truly captivating experience that deserves high praise. If you enjoy historical fantasy with a compelling mystery and a touch of magic, this book is a must-read.
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 1.06 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 422
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Fallen Messengers
- Fractured Souls - 1
- Spellbound
- Edge Lines
- Oathbreaker
- Harbinger
- Crimson Skies
- Wicked
- Fallen Messengers Short Story
- Collection
- The Mage and His Brute
- Arcane Entanglement - 1
- Nights
- One Night
- The Escort
Preview Book
