Whimbrel House Series
by Charlie N. Holmberg

I absolutely love, love, LOVE this series! Set in 1846, where magic is seamlessly integrated into reality, this series follows the intertwined lives of Merritt Fernsby, Hulda Larkin, and Owein. The magic in this world is subtle, not overwhelming—there are no magical creatures, just humans with varying degrees of magical heritage. The magic fits organically into the historical setting, creating an intriguing blend of realism and fantasy.

Note: I can’t provide detailed synopses of each book due to spoilers, but trust me—if you want to experience the full depth of this series, grab the books from your favorite retailer or library!

The author’s straightforward writing style makes each book easy to follow, with no excessive flowery language. While it’s simple, the writing is still rich enough to introduce new vocabulary and historical terminology, adding an authentic touch to the world-building. The magic is skillfully woven into the everyday lives of the characters, and the author stays true to the 1846 setting, balancing the historical context with the fantastical elements.

The characters are deeply developed and evolve throughout the series, keeping me hooked and eager to see where their journeys will lead next. It’s hard to choose a favorite, but if I had to, I would say Merritt takes the top spot, with Owein coming in at a very close second. Watching their growth is a joy, and the author does a brilliant job of showing how their relationships and individual arcs unfold over time.

Each book is filled with enough intrigue to keep the story fresh and exciting. The character growth and immersion in the world are always top-notch, ensuring that no book ever feels stale. The balance between magic and historical accuracy is wonderfully executed, with magic never feeling out of place but always adding an extra layer to the plot and character interactions.

If you’re a fan of historical fantasy with well-developed characters and magic, this series is a must-read. The seamless blend of history and fantasy makes for a captivating read, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Books in this series:
Keeper of Enchanted Rooms
Heir of Uncertain Magic
Boy of Chaotic Making
Wizard of Most Wicked Ways