In Carly Spade's Of Magic and Rum (Beyond a Contemporary Mythos), the lines between myth and reality blur. Rhode, a sea nymph from Atlantis, finds herself stranded in 18th-century Earth after a temporal displacement. Disguised as a cabin boy, she stows away on Captain Calico Jack Rackham's ship, The Revenge, intending to murder him. However, her carefully laid plans are complicated by the captivating Captain and the perilous journey ahead. This adult pirate romantasy reimagines the infamous Anne Bonny and Calico Jack, weaving a thrilling tale of magic, betrayal, and unexpected love amidst the high seas and mythical creatures. Their survival hinges on navigating treacherous waters, both literal and metaphorical, as their initial animosity gives way to a profound connection.
Review Of Magic and Rum
"Of Magic and Rum," Carly Spade's reimagining of Calico Jack and Anne Bonny, swept me away on a thrilling adventure! As a lifelong fan of pirate lore, I was instantly captivated by the premise: a sea nymph, Anne, stranded in the 18th century, forced to infiltrate a pirate crew led by the infamous Calico Jack. The blend of historical fiction and mythology is brilliantly executed, creating a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. Spade seamlessly weaves together the grit and grime of pirate life with the magic and wonder of Anne's sea nymph heritage, resulting in a truly unique and engaging read.
The romance between Anne and Jack is the heart of the story. It's a slow burn with plenty of witty banter and sizzling chemistry. Their relationship isn't without its challenges; their initial interactions are laced with suspicion and mutual distrust, which slowly gives way to a deep, passionate connection. Watching their dynamic evolve, from enemies to lovers, was a pure delight. Both characters are wonderfully complex; Anne is fierce, independent, and resourceful, while Jack, despite his rough exterior, reveals unexpected depths of compassion and loyalty. They're both flawed, realistically portrayed, and utterly compelling.
Beyond the central romance, the supporting characters are equally well-developed. The crew of The Revenge feels like a genuine found family, each member adding their own unique personality and quirks to the narrative. I particularly enjoyed the humorous interactions between the crewmates, which added a lighthearted touch to the often-dangerous situations they found themselves in. The world-building is impressive; Spade expertly portrays the harsh realities of pirate life while simultaneously introducing fantastical elements that enhance the overall atmosphere without feeling jarring.
While some reviewers noted a rushed pacing in certain sections, I found the story to move at a brisk and enjoyable pace, keeping me constantly engaged. The plot twists and turns, never allowing the story to become predictable. The inclusion of mythical creatures and creatures adds a delightful layer of intrigue, further enhancing the already captivating pirate adventure. The spice level is just right, adding a satisfying dimension to the romance without overpowering the narrative. The ending, while satisfying, left me wanting more. I certainly hope this isn't the last we've seen of Anne and Jack!
Overall, "Of Magic and Rum" is a highly enjoyable read that expertly blends historical fiction, romance, and fantasy. It's a thrilling adventure, a captivating romance, and a testament to Spade's skill as a storyteller. If you're looking for a fun, fast-paced read with well-developed characters, a touch of magic, and a healthy dose of romance, then look no further. This book is a true gem, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating escape. Five stars, easily!
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.91 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 364
- Publication date: 2024
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