Beautiful photo by @bookish_archive!
Hello fairy friends!
Happy Monday and welcome to day 1 of our readalong of A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft. I’m so excited to be reading this one with you, I hope you all love it!
Before we get into the book, how are we all doing today? I hope you all had a wonderful weekend full of amazing books and chill vibes!
Since today is day 1, we’ll be reading from the beginning to the end of Chapter 6. It’s time to get comfy and cosy with our book and get started!
When you’ve finished today’s section, catch up with me in the comments down below so we can discuss the beginning of the book. Happy reading!
Please be warned, the following section will include spoilers for A Fragile Enchantment by Allison Saft from the beginning to Chapter 6. Please only read on if you have finished this section!
!SPOILERS!
After the first couple of pages, I instantly adored our main character Niamh; her spilling tea constantly is very relatable as an avid tea drinker myself!
We find out Niamh has grown somewhat well-known within upper society for her ability to enchant garments with her magic, helping people find love, marriage and status within the nobility. As a result, she receives an invitation to tailor the royal wedding and change her life as well as her family’s life.
However, we learn there are tensions between her people in Machland and those of Avlish where the royal family resides due to a dark history. Her Gran reminds her that it was the royals who tried and failed to rid the world of her magic and are responsible for the starving and suffering of her people.
Niamh decides to take up the Prince Regent’s offer to tailor the royal wedding so that she can give her family a better life after they have suffered greatly from the blight and previous conflict.
We also learn that eight years ago the king’s health suddenly declined and he hasn’t been seen in public since as well as his wife dying four years ago in a tragic accident. I wonder if there is anything more sinister behind this…
Niamh arrives at the palace and her first interaction with Prince Kit, whom she will be tailoring, does not go well. Kit is very rude and grumpy from the start and even insults Niamh and her skills. Naturally, Niamh takes an immediate dislike to him.
Is anyone else grinning because we’re getting the grumpy x sunshine trope?! And maybe even a little bit of hate to love… 👀
Also, Kit’s magic being tied to plants and his emotions? Colour me intrigued!
I wonder why Niamh is the only one in two generations who has her family’s dying gift. I’ve never read a book with that sort of magic before and I am so fascinated by it!
I’m also very curious about the silver strand in her hair and how it ties to her magic/her magic making her sick over time, as well as why her friend Erin suddenly left the castle a couple of days before Niamh’s arrival…
We are then introduced to a character called Gabriel Sinclair who I immediately like as he is so unserious. We learn some interesting things from this new character; the Tattler gossip column and it’s political stance, and the fact that Kit has been away from court for four years.
The queen being involved in a fatal accident around the same time as Kit leaving court has to be linked, right? Maybe I’m getting ahead of myself but the timing is rather coincidental. 🤔 I also suspect it has something to do with his brother, the prince regent, as it is also mentioned that Kit looks at his brother with loathing. Ahhh, I just love the drama!
Niamh and Kit’s relationship is very interesting… they have their first real fight and very harsh words are spoken. I could feel the tension jumping off the page!
But then we get crumbs of cuteness when Kit makes a man move out of Niamh’s way when he notices she can’t see over him. I hope I wasn’t the only one to find that cute…
Does anyone else think the prince regent is using Niamh as a political pawn to make himself look good? I feel bad for her.
Our reading for today ends with her attending the ball and I’m so excited to see what happens next between her and Kit. Each time she encounters him he seems to open up to her ever so slightly and I can’t wait to learn more about his past and why he is so guarded, as well as more about the Tattler 👀.
Well, that was quite the enchanting start! I am loving the dynamic between characters and can’t wait for tomorrow’s reading!
What are your thoughts so far?
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
See you tomorrow for another day of reading!
Love,
Jodie
1) What are your thoughts so far?
I am intrigued so far! Though it’s still early days. I wonder if we’ll get some Fair Ones meddling with things. (Also, off the wall theory based on nothing: I think Kit’s fiance is disgued as the maid. Hence the veil)
2) Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
There HAS to be! Why else is a seamstress being invited to attend all these court gatherings.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
copy and pasting my comment because I submitted too soon (oops) and can’t reply.
1) What are your thoughts so far?
I am intrigued so far! Though it’s still early days. I wonder if we’ll get some Fair Ones meddling with things. (Also, off the wall theory based on nothing: I think Kit’s fiance is disgued as the maid. Hence the veil)
2) Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
There HAS to be! Why else is a seamstress being invited to attend all these court gatherings.
3) What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
The absence is mysterious! Part of me wonders if we’ll get a changeling type scenario. Or he was a prince running from his duties.
4) And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
I am embarrassed this question is what made me realise it’s grumpy x sunshine haha I love that trope
Ooooo very interesting theories! 👀 So happy to hear you love that trope too! 😍
What are your thoughts so far? – Enjoying this one so far – giving Bridgerton vibes especially with the Tattler.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace? – Yes but I’m not sure why yet but I think it will have something to do with her magic ability or possibly her parents.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories? – I think the scandal with Gabriel – perhaps Gabriel took the fall for it but Jack knew the truth and sent Kit away.
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? – I enjoy grumpy / sunshine as long as it doesn’t last too long. I think Kit will fall for Niamh sooner rather than later.
So happy to hear you’re enjoying it so far! 🥰 I agree, I also think Kit will fall rather quickly for Niamh!
Very intrigued by this so far. I have a weird feeling that something far more sinister is going on in this palace lol
I have a feeling Naimh is maybe there because of tension between Avlish and Machland like… this is Jacks way of showing that they don’t mind the Machland and they’ve made amends etc etc
I am dying to know what happened with Gabriel too oh my gosh
I do like the grumpy sunshine trope a lot but I do hope Kit gets a little less grumpy… I did like when he wanted everyone to move so she could see
Off to an interesting start!
That was my feeling too, I wonder if we’re right! 👀 Yes I thought that was very cute of him! I have a feeling he’s a total golden retriever underneath his harsh exterior. 😂
1. What are your thoughts so far?
I think it started off strong! I liked having an immediate feel of the characters and the world
2. Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
I think she was truly invited just to make the clothing and her being from where she is only an added bonus. I feel like there is more behind the union itself than Niamh coming
3. What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
He was sick or he ran away
4. And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
I love a grumpy x sunshine trope!!
Yes! It was extremely captivating from the very first page! 😍
What are your thoughts so far?
I loved Bridgerton, so this book has been right up my alley so far.
I’m loving it – I really like Kit’s powers being linked to nature. I feel like those powers are usually used for female characters to it’s a refreshing change for a male to have them. I’m intrigued how his powers are going to manifest throughout the book.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
There has to be more to it! I definitely think she’s being used as a political pawn as realistically there’s no need for a seamstress to attend the events that Niamh is going to. Even she was surprised by it. Definitely sus.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
Definitely feels like a prince running from his duties. Or maybe a punishment for a scandal. Or maybe he’s staging a coup/is on the “wrong” side of the political tensions?
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
I love a grumpy x sunshine trope. I’m already loving the chemistry between Niamh and Kit. I can definitely see them being a huge problem for prince regent.
Yes! Everyone’s magic is so unique; I also love Kit’s powers being linked to nature it gives such a whimsical feel! 😍 Their chemistry is already unmatched!
What are your thoughts so far?
I’m loving it so far! Niamh is such a comfort character already and so relatable – I’m already worried for her about how much magic she’s using! The magic system is very intriguing and I like how wild Kit’s magic is compared to Niamh’s steady and intentional magic.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
Yes! It definitely seems as if she’s going to be used as a pawn in some way or as a symbol of Avaland’s good will.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I wonder if it was a punishment of some sort – maybe Kit lost his temper after his mum’s accident and lost control of his magic in some way? I can’t wait to find out what happened and why he hates his brother so much.
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
I love a grumpy x sunshine trope! This one already had me grinning because the chemistry between Niamh and Kit is great so far!
So happy you’re loving it so far! The contrast between their magics is so interesting and unique, I can’t wait to learn more! Yay! Me too, I’ve been giggling a lot hehe. 💖
1) What are your thoughts so far?
I’m very intrigued! The world and magic are so fascinating already, and I get the feeling we’ll explore more than ‘just’ the romance, which is always a plus for me.
2) Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
It does feel like she’s being used for brownie points in that political climate. But I also get the feeling Jack is not doing so well either. I can’t help but feel a bit bad for him. Just me?
3) What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I’m leaning toward substance abuse at the moment. Can’t blame him, if my mom had died when I was that young…
4) And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope?
I rarely look for tropes in books, but I’m liking Niamh and Kit so far! 🙂
Also, the hair thing makes me think of Anna’s hair (Frozen). Maybe it’s related to Niamh’s health somehow? Maybe stress? Too much magic? Well, can’t wait to find out!
I definitely agree, I think there is something nefarious about her invite to the palace! Oooo I like the Anna comparison that’s an interesting theory! 🥰
I’m loving the vibes of this book so far, definitely my kind of story❤️
I think she was hired mainly just to be a dress maker but with the bonus of it being a good look cause of where she comes from.
I think Kit’s 4 year absence was most likely due to a scandal and him being sent away to cover it up/avoid bad attention on the family.
I’m so excited for grumpy x sunshine, I love it😍 I’ve been smiling at the relationship between them already .
I really like it so far. It has some unusually elements like the magic and the girly girl fmc.
I think that they are not interested just about her talent, but they want to use for political reasons.
I think kit was not happy about the royal life and that cause depression or a burn out or something like that.
Grumpy and sunshine is my favorite trope! 🤩
I’m really enjoying this so much! It feels like a magical Bridgerton vibe and I love all the little details about her magic and the gods. I’m curious to learn more about that line “She and the death god, Donn, has a tenuous understanding.”…
I definitely think that there is some kind of secret motivation for why Niamh was invited to the palace and why she’s being included in things so publicly.
The four year absence sounds super sketchy and I fear that his brother is going to be at fault in some way for it.
I’m excited for the Grumpy x Sunshine trope! Looking forward to reading more this week❤️
What are your thoughts so far?
I’m enjoying it! I hope we see some more of the politics at play
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
Yes! Between the invites to events and the fancy living quarters, I definitely think she’s being used to show Avaland’s goodwill
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I don’t think he was away, but maybe sick and kept out of the public view
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope?
Very! Sunshine characters are everything to me
1) I’m loving this book so much. It has many of my favourite things: a regency story, magic and the grumpy/sunshine trope.
2) Yes, I agree with you that Niamh is being used by the Regent Prince as a political pawn to make himself look good.
3) I think Kit’s four-year absence might be that he was running away from his problems, royal duties or life at the palace. Or he did something bad and had to be sent away.
4) I’m very excited with the Grumpy/Sunshine trope.
What are your thoughts so far?
Really enjoying the book so far. The mc are really witty and I love the chemistry between Niamh and Kit. I like how Niamh isn’t afraid to speak her mind and she brings him down a peg or two. I have also found Sinclair to be quite an interesting character, will be interesting to see what part he plays in the story.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
100% I think that Jack is definitely using her for some political aid, to make it look like there is peace between nations but I don’t quite believe that is the case.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I think that he found out something or that he did something that caused shame/embarrassment to the family so he was almost exiled for a time. His magic and lack of control might has been a reason for his absence and he was located elsewhere until he managed to get it under control.
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope?
I love this trope. I don’t think Kit will be grumpy for long as there have already been small hints of him being won over by Niamh.
It’s such a cute romantic story so far. I’m definitely enjoying the grumpy x sunshine trope. 💖
And yes, I think there is absolutely more to why Niamh was invited to the palace. I fear she will be a pawn in a political game.
I’m not sure yet why Kit was absent for four years… Maybe he was so heartbroken by his mother’s tragic accident, that he needed to get away from it all?
I look forward to the next section!💖
What are your thoughts so far?
Im loving the Bridgerton vibes! I’m a big fan of stories that have sprinkles of magic. It’s still early, but im hoping we get more insights from the gossip paper on what is happening during the season!
Out of left field theory – Sinclair has something to do with The Tattler….
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
Oh, 1000%. I’m not sure what yet, but there is something bigger at play here. Maybe the prince regent was hoping Niamh could enchant their wedding outfits with love, if they are both unhappy with the arrangement?
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
Im thinking its a “prince gone wild due to grief” situation and the 4 year absence was him being sent away to clean up his act and get some drama to die down.
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope?
I’m pleased!! I think the grumpiness is a bit more hostile, which means I hope he has strong redemption arch!
As a seamstress myself, I have loved this book since the moment I laid eyes on it! So far, I am loving this read. The world building is great and I am loving the pace.
I think Niamh is there for her embroidery gift. The Prince Regent could use her as a pawn or to make Avaland look good but, my theory is he is going to ask for a special request for her to embroider for him.
I feel like Prince Kit ran away or had an accident.
I do love a good Grumpy x Sunshine trope! I also loved that he had that man move so she could see. Another character I love and am excited about is Gabriel!
oh my gosh! this read already is so whimsical and magical I love it!
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
Yes there has to be! I’m not sure why yet but I definitely think there’s some sort of ulterior motive somewhere.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
Some sort of scandal or illness, something to do with the mother’s death. Again I’m not sure…
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope?
I love it! I haven’t read much of this trope but so far I’m loving Niamh and Kit
I’m so happy we’re getting a grumpy / sunshine pairing. I also happen to be rewatching Bridgerton and I’m getting ALL the Bridgerton vibes. The beautiful clothes, a Daphne/Simon pairing, a Lady Whistledown/Tattler.
I have no theories about what kept Kit from court, but I’m curious to see what’s going on with his relationship with his brother. And why Jack and Sofia’s relationship seems so strained
I like this book so far, it is rather easy to read. The fantasy world is not too complicated as it is with some books so the first section went by very fast. I like Niamh quite a lot.
I think there could be more to why Niamh was invited to the palace but I’m not sure what it could be. I think the royal family is not that loved in general so maybe it was to gain some plus points? But as she was asked there to be a seamstress and now attending the events, it’s weird. Regular seamstress wouldn’t be invited to these things.
Obviously Kit’s absence hasn’t done any good to his relationship with his brother… Maybe he was somewhere studying and educating himself as is common with royals… or it was something else? I usually don’t have any theories, I just want to continue reading 😅
I love Grumpy x Sunshine trope, almost as much as who did this to you trope 😄 Niamh and Kit are so funny together, I can’t wait to read more about them.
What do I think so far hmm I am intrigued at what will happen next and what she crates especialy the wedding dress (I love wwddings)
Hehe the relationship between Kit and Niamh is so funny and I like how they push eich others buttons teasing one another.
I hope she isnt brought to court for some sinister reason bu with royals you never know I do hope she isnt there just to be a pawn to raise the regants likeness with pepole.
Her magic is interesting can you imagine making somting that evokes emotion out of pepole quit powerfull megic to have. But I do think that its draining her of her life energy hanc her hair is getting white like someone draining the life out of her.
Kit being away I wonder what happend that he was sent away and where did he do somerhing bad to be sent away or was it a stratigic move of the family we dont know
The writer does make us question a lot and makes it hard to figure out what is going on
So far I’m enjoying it, I love the regency Bridgerton fantasy vibes. It reminds me of Half a Soul, and I really love that kind of setting.
Obviously we don’t know much yet but I’m really intrigued by the magic system and who gets magic and who doesn’t. I find her magic fascinating!
I definitely think there’s more to why Niamh was invited – maybe to appease those protesting, as she’s been invited to the ball but that feels super abnormal. There’s definitely an element of showing her off/parading her around.
I’m not sure about Kit’s 4 year absence yet, and I don’t really have any theories. It’ll likely be important.
And I’m very excited for Sunshine/Grumpy.
I can’t wait to see where the books take us. There is something off about the brother, and why do I feel like Lovelace will be someone close to the family (maybe the brothers wife?).
Belatedly jumping in!
My thoughts so far? I really really need a pronunciation guide!
I thought Niamh might’ve been invited for political reasons, to show that the kingdom isn’t prejudiced against her people. But there hasn’t been a hint of that so far.
No theories about Kit’s absence but I can’t wait to learn more!
It’s gonna make me want to read the OG grumpy/sunshine again isn’t it? Hello my old friend Pride & Prejudice…
I 100% believe theres and ulterior motive to bringing Niamh here.
Sunshine x grumpy isn’t my favorite but I dont mind it so I’m excited to see how it all turns out.
What are your thoughts so far?
I think the book is good so far, so interesting. It may be a favourite book if it keeps on getting better.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
Yes, but I can’t come up with anything. like why her out of all the other people.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
That will be in my thoughts in my head as to why when I’m reading the book.
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope
It’s not my favourite trope. But it is a good tope!
What are your thoughts so far?
I’m intrigued so far. I feel like there’s a lot of information missing that will hopefully come to light as we continue reading. But the fact that Niamh feels responsible to care for her family hits close to home endearing her to me. I’m curious about the magic and her silver streak, how it’s tied to her lifespan.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
After that first meeting with Jack and Kit, I feel the royals are in trouble. I wonder if my suspicions are correct. During this time period, class and title didn’t always mean there was money to finance a lavish lifestyle. I feel this may be the reasons Kit is being shoved towards a marriage he doesn’t want.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I feel that there’s more than grumpiness with Kit. It may be tied to his father’s illness and his mother’s death.
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
Loving that so far we have a grumpy x sunshine trope, I hope that some other of my faves show up as well.🤞🏽🤞🏽🤞🏽
Catching up on the reading along (first time joining, excited!!). So far it reads a a cozy story. I absolutely adore Niamh, she’s so bubbly! I believe there is more to Jack’s motive for getting her to the palace. Maybe he’s collecting all divine blooded types and they haven’t had one with Niamh’s talents for some time on the mainland, or it is simply to boost his status / disspel the Tattler on his stance towards her people. Kit’s four year absence remains a mystery though.. not many hints to go on (yet!). I’m here for the Grumpy vs Sunshine, although my heart aches every-time he is unprovoked rude towards our girl! Hope he’ll let her in a bit more in the next chapters!
Sunny Regards, Nikky
TikTok @niekartistiek | Insta @niekbooktique
Chiming in a few days late because even though I’ve been keeping up with the reading, I forgot to comment!
I too immediately feel in love with Niamh and all of the magical whimsy of the world. I am a huge fan of regency romances as well as fantasy, so the intersection of the two that this book fits in is so perfect for me!
I definitely think there is more to Niamh being invited, more to the royal family/Kit’s history, and probably other mysteries. I don’t know what yet though!
I am also loving the grumpy/sunshine. I am shipping Kit and Niamh together so hard!
What are your thoughts so far?
I usually don’t read regency novels so this is getting me out of my comfort zone. I am enjoying Niamh and her challenge of trying to do better for her family and the imposter syndrome she feels.
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
I think there is definitely an alternative motive. I just haven’t figured it out yet. But I do know that motive is more than just wanting clothes by her.
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I think Kit had a mental break that was hidden from the public.
Better late than never, I’ve just picked this up today. I haven’t read the other comments yet but I think there’s some plan that Jack has for Niamh but I’m not sure what it is exactly.
I think there’s going to be lots of hints that will mean something later when we have more information.
Hope you enjoy it! 🥰
I’m liking the magical concept & starting to get a feel for the main characters. Kit & Sinclair’s pasts have my curiosity piqued, too.
Daily Q&A:
Q:
1.) Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
2.) What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
3.) And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
A:
1.) Yes, the Lovelace column, The Tattler, that Sinclair showed Niamh makes me feel like she’s being used for Jack to broadcast “look how well I’m treating this lowly Machlish woman; those rumors are false.” I really hope I’m wrong or that he at least changes his tune later.
2.) I’m most curious to learn about this. When Kit said “apparently” in response to Niamh inquiring after his being in attendance at his brother’s wedding, I got the feeling that maybe they just said he’d made an appearance while he was actually still (wherever) during those 4 years.
3.) I love “grumpy X sunshine” almost as much as “enemies-to-lovers” (which, as Avlish royalty & Machlish commoner, they kinda are, too).
I have to agree that Sinclair is clearly behind the gossip column
What are your thoughts so far?
I’m really enjoying it! I have lots of questions that I hope get answered soon haha (like what kind of illness is this??)
Do you think there is more to why Niamh was invited to the palace?
I think yes potentially especially since she’s been asked to make the wedding gown. I’m slightly hopeful that the wedding will fall apart and she may get to wear the gown but that’s just speculation hahaha
What do you think about Kit’s four-year absence? Any theories?
I really have no idea. I’m excited to find out!
And lastly, how excited are you that we’re getting the Grumpy x Sunshine trope? 😍
SO EXCITED. I love grumpy men who then turn into cinnamon rolls hehe
I’m not so sure yet. I’m still learning about the World and trying to understand haha. I hope I will get into it more soon. ❤️
Most likely yes. I can’t imagine them not having famous seamstresses. Curious to learn more.
Maybe he did something bad and it was his punishment?
I’m loving this so far! The Bridgerton vibes are superb. The magic is fascinating. The enemies to lovers hints?? 🤌 I am super excited to read more!
If am being completely honest, I have been having a very had time getting into this book. Part of it is because I am in a reading slump, but at the same time there was nothing that was particularly grabbing me. It has already been set up that Kit and Niamh are going to get together but it seems odd. How can they have a relationship when he is set to be wed? According to the description of the book, they are going to be exposed in the gossip column and the only person that I would think able to find that out would be Sinclair. I found it odd that he was so comfortable with the main character and he had never even met her. I feel like there has to be a reason that we were introduced to him so early for him too not be a secondary character. As far as Kit’s absence from court, I honestly don’t see why it is important at all. However, I wonder if it has to do with him having magic. While the royalty wants to use the magic, I think it scares them that there is someone who has such anger issues and magic so perhaps they sent him away until he could control it to a certain extent. The one question that was not asked if why Niamh knows that she is going to die. if she uses too much magic it seems as though she maybe ages quicker since she has that one patch of grey hair.