"Humor and whimsy make with fantasy romance magical."

At an early age, William Aiden Brinlaw discovered he was "the first wizard in a thousand generations." Marked by sorcery with the sign of the dragon, Aiden feels he must hide his powers, which are traditionally bestowed on women. He becomes a knight in the service of King John (Lackland) and distinguishes himself in battle. John rewards him with a castle in Scotland, Glencairn, and a promise of marriage to his younger sister, Princess Katherine.

The promised castle is in English hands...but just barely. The lady of the castle, Evelyn, is Scots herself. Evelyn was the betrothed bride to the former lord of Glencairn. Killed in the Holy Land while on Crusade, Charles left Evelyn and their son, born before the two could marry, alone and without a claim on Glencairn. Desperate enough to save her son's inheritance and smart enough to see her plan through, Evelyn sets her mind to wooing the new English lord (Aiden) and securing a future for herself and her son.

A must-read for those who love a little fantasy with their romance. Ms. Wylie is a skilled writer who brings her characters to life with a bit of humor and whimsy. Although set in England and Scotland in the 12th century, Wicked Charms isn't big with the history lesson. Most of the characters are fictional, including King John's sister, Princess Katherine. Still, as most reader's won't be looking for a tutorial on 12th-century England/Scotland, lack of historical detail should not be a roadblock. Sit back and enjoy!

Reviewed by Karen Pope
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted August 19, 2003