Book Review | The League of Gentlewomen Witches

The League of Gentlewomen Witches by India Holton

Series: Dangerous Damsels #2
Published by Penguin on March 15, 2022
Genres: Fiction / Romance / Fantasy, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Victorian, Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy
Pages: 352
Format: Audiobook

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the teahouse. . . .

Miss Charlotte Pettifer belongs to a secret league of women skilled in the subtle arts. That is to say—although it must never be said—witchcraft. The League of Gentlewomen Witches strives to improve the world in small ways. Using magic, they tidy, correct, and manipulate according to their notions of what is proper, entirely unlike those reprobates in the Wisteria Society.

When the long lost amulet of Black Beryl is discovered, it is up to Charlotte, as the future leader of the League, to make sure the powerful talisman does not fall into the wrong hands. Therefore, it is most unfortunate when she crosses paths with Alex O’Riley, a pirate who is no Mr. Darcy. With all the world scrambling after the amulet, Alex and Charlotte join forces to steal it together. If only they could keep their pickpocketing hands to themselves! If Alex’s not careful, he might just steal something else—such as Charlotte’s heart.

ISBN: 9780593200186

You know those books that you just want to wrap yourself in and escape the real world into? This is definitely one of them for me! The whole Dangerous Damsels series is a world I would love to live in and befriend Charlotte, Cecilia, Alex, and Ned.

As with the first one, this is definitely a novel that is bettered listened to than read with a physical copy. I had such a fun time with the first one and the second one didn’t disappoint. From the Austen references, the misquotes, the snark, and the humour of it all, this was an adventure story from start to finish.

I especially love how Charlotte just wants to be left alone to read her books and practice her witchcraft. A woman after my own heart. The back and forth between her and Alex was plain delightful, especially when they’re discussing who kidnapped who! Stop being adorable you two! Although the part where Charlotte talks about how she’s always been told she’s too much, too sensitive, too this or that, god, I felt that in my soul.

I’m always impressed with how India Holton weaves together such charming stories that actually stay true to history (minus the whole women pirates, flying houses, and magic bits). The poking fun about how the Irish have a reason to be upset with the English was so on point.

I absolutely love this book and couldn’t recommend it (or this series) enough. Off to read The Secret Service of Tea and Treason!