The 'Book of Enchantments' by Patricia C. Wrede is a collection of short fantasy stories that range from dark and thoughtful to light and humorous. The anthology includes tales of witches, wizards, dragons, knights, and other fantastical elements. Some stories have ties to Wrede's Enchanted Forest Chronicles, while others stand alone as original works. The writing style is described as clever, elegant, and accessible to both younger and adult readers, showcasing the author's strong understanding of traditional fairy tales.

Characters:

The characters are diverse and include wizards, princesses, and warriors, often facing conflicts that reflect broader themes of jealousy, ambition, and personal growth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is clever and elegant, accessible to younger readers while also appealing to adults, showcasing varied tones from light-hearted humor to dark emotion.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a collection of original fairy tales and folk stories filled with imaginative elements, including retellings of classic tales and unique twists.

Setting:

The settings range from traditional fantasy landscapes like enchanted forests to contemporary and mythical realms.

Pacing:

The pacing varies by story, with some being quick to resolve while others could benefit from deeper exploration.

"My father is an enchanter," Tamriff explained. "He decided to create the ultimate weapon, something powerful and wondrous that heroes would fight over for centuries. The Sword of Doom he wanted to ca...

Notes:

The wizard in 'Rikiki and the Wizard' tries to trade his daughter for fame but ends up with a blue chipmunk instead.

'The Princess, the Cat, and the Unicorn' features a princess and her cat seeking their fortune in a whimsical adventure.

'Roses by Moonlight' is unique because not much happens, yet it still feels meaningful.

'The Sixty-Two Curses of Caliph Arenschadd' has a caliph who curses everyone who annoys him in a humorous Arabian Nights-style story.

'Earthwitch' takes a darker tone, exploring themes of love and war.

'Stronger Than Time' is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty with an unexpected twist ending.

'Cruel Sisters' is told from the perspective of a third sister and deals with jealousy and malice.

The collection includes a recipe for 'Barbarian's Quick After Battle Triple Chocolate Cake.'

The stories vary in tone from light-hearted to darker themes, making it suitable for both younger and older readers.

Patricia C. Wrede's writing is praised for being clever and accessible, appealing to a broad audience.

Has Romance?

Romance elements are present but not the central focus, with varying degrees of development across the stories.

From The Publisher:

This witty and charming collection of ten short fantasies includes a story, set in the Enchanted Forest, about Queen Cimorene's Frying Pan of Doom; a zany yarn about a magical blue chipmunk with a passion for chestnuts; and an eerie tale of a caliph who turns his vizier's daughter into a wolf.

Reader Stats (3):

Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (1)

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About the Author:

PATRICIA C. WREDE has written many novels, including Sorcery and Cecelia or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot and The Grand Tour coauthored with Caroline Stevermer, as well as the four books in her own series, the Enchanted Forest Chronicles. She lives near Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Book of Enchantments

Patricia C. Wrede