Book Review: Light Fantastique (Aether Psychics, Book 2) by Cecilia Dominic

Reviewer: Andrea

I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

The Summary:

At the Théâtre Bohème, danger decides who takes the final curtain call.

Aether Psychics, Book 2

Hailed as the most talented actress of her generation, Marie St. Jean has something more to her ability than mere talent. She loses a bit of her soul to each role. When the ghostly spirit of the theatre promises her an easy fix, she’s tempted by the chance to finally live a normal life.

Unfortunately, the man she’s drawn to is the last one to settle for normal. But with the Prussians surrounding Paris, there’s no escaping that temptation, either.

Violinist Johann Bledsoe thought he’d left his disgrace in England, but a murder outside the Théâtre Bohème makes him wonder if he’s been exposed. Another reason not to stick around once the siege ends, even if Marie fascinates him.

More murders, steam-powered ravens, and past and present secrets bring them closer to discovering just what lurks within the theatre, and who threatens from without. The only way to save themselves is to reveal their darkest shames—and use the Eros Element in a way that has already driven one man to the brink of madness.

Warning: Processed in a facility where wine is used as currency and dessert is a reward. If you dislike French cooking and attitudes, move along. Things are cooking in this book, and it ain’t Julia Child.

The Review:

Mysterious notes, freaky phantoms, secret passageways, steampunk automatons—this book has it all! In this thriller, the reader is surrounded by intrigue and suspense. Mystery and history lovers, this is one you’ll likely enjoy. It isn’t heavy on romance, but it also isn’t light on plot. In fact, the plot becomes quite complicated while maintaining a drama that was like a movie I didn’t want to end. Set in Paris during the Prussian siege, the city, and especially the theater, become characters in their own right. It was like a twisted game of Clue (but with a French accent)!

Another draw of this novel is the paranormal aspect present in the abilities of Marie and Iris. These abilities cause unique complications in the story line and kept me wondering. I did get a little tired of Marie’s worries over her powers, but that didn’t dampen my enjoyment of the novel.

Being a lover of romance (pun intended), I wanted to see more of the blossomings between Johan and Marie, but never fear, my fellow amour groupies. There is enough to keep you hanging on. Their affection is sweet and mildly steamy.

My biggest problem with the novel—this is a sequel, and unfortunately, author Cecilia Dominic doesn’t give a lot of background to clarify pre-events.  I had difficulty following some events and comments, and a number of things were left hanging. I was frustrated for a third of the novel with the lack of explanation, but once I finally stopped worrying about it and just read, it was a big “thumbs up”!

4.5 Stars