Review of Again the Magic, a gorgeous, second chance historical romance set in 19th century England by Lisa Kleypas.
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Synopsis
Lady Aline Marsden found her other half in childhood friend John McKenna. The problem is that he is a servant and she is the daughter of an earl. When her father finds out about their romance, McKenna is sent away with a warning to never return.
Years later, Aline’s father is dead and McKenna has made his fortune. He returns with his business partner, ostensibly to win over investors for another business venture, but with firm plans for revenge. Certain that she will never marry, Aline figures that she has nothing to lose from fling with McKenna and goes after the memories that were denied her when she was younger.
Review
Again the Magic tells a beautiful second chance love story between two childhood sweethearts from different social classes. The characters have been through so much that you just have to want them to have a happily ever after. Overall, it’s a wonderful, well-written story with many dimensions and a lot of depth.
I loved how Again the Magic had a second romance woven into the story. Aline’s sister has such a sad backstory that I was so happy when she found love. Livia and Gordon were such an unusual couple from very different backgrounds, but their relationship was so sweet.
The characters were well-developed; even the minor characters’ personalities were shown clearly. Aline and McKenna’s feelings towards each other were obviously very deep and I enjoyed how realistic their reactions to events were.
I found Aline infuriating. She keeps pushing McKenna away and coming up with these ridiculous excuses instead of telling him the truth. Her secrecy is convincing and understandable, and to some extent I felt sorry for her. However, I also found the pride behind it foolish.
McKenna is the embodiment of the perfect hero; he’s passionate, powerful, and handsome, but tender and caring. He also doesn’t seem to be afraid of showing genuine emotion. These emotions appear so intense. I loved how McKenna was honest at the end about the suffering Aline had put him through; it’s heart-breaking.
Conclusion
Have you read Again the Magic? What did you think? Do you agree with what I’ve said about it? Let me know in the comments.
If you haven’t, you can buy it at Book Depository (they have free international shipping!).
