Review: Magical Book
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 02 12, 2014
***3  Stars***-I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.-Louisa has recently graduated college and finally quit her job at a bookstore and isn’t sure what direction her life is going when she discovers that she and her friend are going to Scotland over the Christmas holidays, a gift from both of their parents. While there, she is intrigued by the Scottish witch trials and is strangely drawn to one particular accused witch, Isobel Key. With the help of sexy tour guide and historian, Brian, she will begin a quest that completely alters the course of her life.The story shifts between the modern day journey Louisa is taking and the life of Isobel Key in the 1600’s. The author does a great job of shifting between the two time periods, and I like her writing style. Her descriptions of Scotland are breathtaking. You feel like you are seeing the same sites as Lou. However, the strength of the novel is in the story of Isobel. I was so engrossed when I read the flashbacks involving poor Isobel’s tale. I wasn’t as enthralled with the modern day story. I didn’t think Lou was as strong a character as Isobel. I had mixed feelings about Lou and Tammy’s friendship. Tammy came across as judgmental and not as good a friend to Lou as Lou was to her. The romance between Lou and Brian was not the focal point of the story, but I really don’t think it was meant to be. This was more of a mystery and a coming of age story to me rather than a romance.The Secret of Isobel Key has many genres interlaced amongst its pages. Jen McConnel does a great job of melding those elements together. Even though the focal point of the story isn’t the romance between Lou and Brian, it’s a good story. If you like mystery and history, give this one a try. I thought she left room at the end to expand on Lou and Brian’s story which I would love to see.