Rag and Bone
K.J. Charles has once again woven a spellbinding tale in Rag and Bone, a novel that seamlessly blends historical romance, paranormal intrigue, and gripping mystery within her richly imagined Charm of Magpies universe. Published in 2016, this first full-length novel in the Rag and Bone series (following the novella A Queer Trade) is a triumph of storytelling that captures the heart and imagination with its vibrant characters, evocative setting, and deft exploration of complex themes. For readers who crave a story that balances emotional depth, thrilling stakes, and meticulous world-building, this book is an absolute must-read.
A Compelling Cast of Characters
At the heart of Rag and Bone are Crispin Tredarloe and Ned Hall, two protagonists whose chemistry and authenticity elevate the narrative to new heights. Crispin, an accidental warlock struggling to master his magical abilities the “right” way after a traumatic apprenticeship under a corrupt mentor, is a wonderfully layered character. His insecurities, determination to reform, and internal conflict over his forbidden magical training make him deeply relatable. Charles crafts Crispin with such nuance that his struggles—both magical and personal—feel visceral, drawing readers into his journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Ned Hall, a waste paper dealer and a Black man in Victorian London, is equally compelling. Charles handles his character with remarkable sensitivity, acknowledging the societal challenges he faces without reducing him to a stereotype. Ned’s pragmatism, strength, and quiet resilience make him a standout, and his frustration with the dangers magic brings to his life adds a grounded counterpoint to Crispin’s supernatural struggles. The dynamic between Ned and Crispin is electric, marked by genuine affection, realistic tensions, and a slow-burning romance that feels earned. Their relationship, already established from the prequel novella A Queer Trade, evolves with authenticity, exploring themes of class disparity, mutual support, and the fear of losing love due to societal pressures.
A Vivid and Immersive Setting
Set in the gritty, atmospheric streets of Victorian London, Rag and Bone transports readers to a world where magic crackles beneath the surface of cobbled streets and rag-and-bottle shops. Charles’s meticulous research shines through in her depiction of the era’s economy, social hierarchy, and everyday details, from the coal-dusted air to the bustling trade in waste paper. The novel’s setting feels alive, with every description—from Ned’s humble shop to the eerie magical disturbances—painting a vivid picture that immerses readers fully in the story. The integration of the Charm of Magpies universe adds an extra layer of depth, with familiar characters like Stephen Day making brief but impactful appearances, tying this tale to the broader magical world without overwhelming new readers.
A Perfect Blend of Genres
What sets Rag and Bone apart is its masterful fusion of genres. The novel is as much a taut mystery as it is a heartfelt romance and a thrilling paranormal adventure. When an ancient evil begins targeting London’s rag-and-bottle shops, including Ned’s, the stakes escalate rapidly, pulling Crispin and Ned into a dangerous investigation. The mystery is well-paced, with clues that are satisfyingly challenging yet logical, allowing readers to piece together the puzzle alongside the protagonists. Charles avoids clichéd plot twists, delivering a villain whose identity is surprising yet plausible, keeping readers on edge until the climactic confrontation.
The paranormal elements are equally captivating, with Charles expanding the magical system of the Charm of Magpies universe in creative ways. Crispin’s struggle to abandon his dangerous blood-and-bone magic for sanctioned practices is a fascinating exploration of power and morality, while the “wild magic” threatening London adds a chilling, almost Lovecraftian vibe to the story. The balance of these supernatural elements with the historical setting is flawless, making the magic feel both wondrous and perilous.
Emotional Depth and Social Commentary
Beyond its thrilling plot, Rag and Bone excels in its emotional resonance and subtle social commentary. The romance between Ned and Crispin is not just a backdrop but a vital thread that weaves through the narrative, exploring the challenges of an interracial, same-sex relationship in a time when such love was taboo. Charles handles these dynamics with care, addressing issues of class, race, and queerness without overshadowing the story’s heart. Ned’s experiences as a Black man in Victorian London are portrayed with authenticity, highlighting both the overt racism he faces and his resilience in carving out a life on his own terms. Similarly, Crispin’s journey to overcome his past and prove his worth as a magician resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.
The novel also delves into the power dynamics of relationships, with Ned and Crispin navigating insecurities about whether they are “enough” for each other. These moments of vulnerability are handled with such tenderness that readers can’t help but root for their happy ending. The inclusion of poetry and subtle humor adds warmth and levity, ensuring the story never feels overly heavy despite its darker themes.
Why Rag and Bone Shines
K.J. Charles’s writing is, as always, a masterclass in craft. Her prose is sharp, evocative, and laced with a wit that brings even the grimmest scenes to life. The dialogue feels authentic to the period, with old English phrasing that adds charm without being impenetrable. The pacing is impeccable, balancing quieter character moments with pulse-pounding action, and the world-building is so immersive that readers will find themselves longing to explore more of this magical Victorian London.
While Rag and Bone can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading the prequel A Queer Trade enhances the experience by providing context for Ned and Crispin’s meeting. The novel’s connection to the Charm of Magpies series also adds richness for fans, though newcomers will find it accessible thanks to Charles’s skill at providing just enough background to keep the story clear. The only complaint one might have is that the book, at 146 pages, feels too short—a testament to how captivating these characters and their world are.
Final Thoughts
Rag and Bone is a gem of a novel that showcases K.J. Charles at her finest. It’s a story of love, redemption, and courage, wrapped in a thrilling mystery and a richly detailed historical fantasy setting. Crispin and Ned are characters who linger in the heart long after the final page, and their journey together is both inspiring and deeply moving. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Charm of Magpies series or a newcomer looking for a captivating read, Rag and Bone delivers on every front. I wholeheartedly recommend diving into this enchanting world—you won’t want to leave.
You can buy Rag and Bone by KJ Charles with my Amazon Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4jbW8r6
A Compelling Cast of Characters
At the heart of Rag and Bone are Crispin Tredarloe and Ned Hall, two protagonists whose chemistry and authenticity elevate the narrative to new heights. Crispin, an accidental warlock struggling to master his magical abilities the “right” way after a traumatic apprenticeship under a corrupt mentor, is a wonderfully layered character. His insecurities, determination to reform, and internal conflict over his forbidden magical training make him deeply relatable. Charles crafts Crispin with such nuance that his struggles—both magical and personal—feel visceral, drawing readers into his journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Ned Hall, a waste paper dealer and a Black man in Victorian London, is equally compelling. Charles handles his character with remarkable sensitivity, acknowledging the societal challenges he faces without reducing him to a stereotype. Ned’s pragmatism, strength, and quiet resilience make him a standout, and his frustration with the dangers magic brings to his life adds a grounded counterpoint to Crispin’s supernatural struggles. The dynamic between Ned and Crispin is electric, marked by genuine affection, realistic tensions, and a slow-burning romance that feels earned. Their relationship, already established from the prequel novella A Queer Trade, evolves with authenticity, exploring themes of class disparity, mutual support, and the fear of losing love due to societal pressures.
A Vivid and Immersive Setting
Set in the gritty, atmospheric streets of Victorian London, Rag and Bone transports readers to a world where magic crackles beneath the surface of cobbled streets and rag-and-bottle shops. Charles’s meticulous research shines through in her depiction of the era’s economy, social hierarchy, and everyday details, from the coal-dusted air to the bustling trade in waste paper. The novel’s setting feels alive, with every description—from Ned’s humble shop to the eerie magical disturbances—painting a vivid picture that immerses readers fully in the story. The integration of the Charm of Magpies universe adds an extra layer of depth, with familiar characters like Stephen Day making brief but impactful appearances, tying this tale to the broader magical world without overwhelming new readers.
A Perfect Blend of Genres
What sets Rag and Bone apart is its masterful fusion of genres. The novel is as much a taut mystery as it is a heartfelt romance and a thrilling paranormal adventure. When an ancient evil begins targeting London’s rag-and-bottle shops, including Ned’s, the stakes escalate rapidly, pulling Crispin and Ned into a dangerous investigation. The mystery is well-paced, with clues that are satisfyingly challenging yet logical, allowing readers to piece together the puzzle alongside the protagonists. Charles avoids clichéd plot twists, delivering a villain whose identity is surprising yet plausible, keeping readers on edge until the climactic confrontation.
The paranormal elements are equally captivating, with Charles expanding the magical system of the Charm of Magpies universe in creative ways. Crispin’s struggle to abandon his dangerous blood-and-bone magic for sanctioned practices is a fascinating exploration of power and morality, while the “wild magic” threatening London adds a chilling, almost Lovecraftian vibe to the story. The balance of these supernatural elements with the historical setting is flawless, making the magic feel both wondrous and perilous.
Emotional Depth and Social Commentary
Beyond its thrilling plot, Rag and Bone excels in its emotional resonance and subtle social commentary. The romance between Ned and Crispin is not just a backdrop but a vital thread that weaves through the narrative, exploring the challenges of an interracial, same-sex relationship in a time when such love was taboo. Charles handles these dynamics with care, addressing issues of class, race, and queerness without overshadowing the story’s heart. Ned’s experiences as a Black man in Victorian London are portrayed with authenticity, highlighting both the overt racism he faces and his resilience in carving out a life on his own terms. Similarly, Crispin’s journey to overcome his past and prove his worth as a magician resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.
The novel also delves into the power dynamics of relationships, with Ned and Crispin navigating insecurities about whether they are “enough” for each other. These moments of vulnerability are handled with such tenderness that readers can’t help but root for their happy ending. The inclusion of poetry and subtle humor adds warmth and levity, ensuring the story never feels overly heavy despite its darker themes.
Why Rag and Bone Shines
K.J. Charles’s writing is, as always, a masterclass in craft. Her prose is sharp, evocative, and laced with a wit that brings even the grimmest scenes to life. The dialogue feels authentic to the period, with old English phrasing that adds charm without being impenetrable. The pacing is impeccable, balancing quieter character moments with pulse-pounding action, and the world-building is so immersive that readers will find themselves longing to explore more of this magical Victorian London.
While Rag and Bone can be enjoyed as a standalone, reading the prequel A Queer Trade enhances the experience by providing context for Ned and Crispin’s meeting. The novel’s connection to the Charm of Magpies series also adds richness for fans, though newcomers will find it accessible thanks to Charles’s skill at providing just enough background to keep the story clear. The only complaint one might have is that the book, at 146 pages, feels too short—a testament to how captivating these characters and their world are.
Final Thoughts
Rag and Bone is a gem of a novel that showcases K.J. Charles at her finest. It’s a story of love, redemption, and courage, wrapped in a thrilling mystery and a richly detailed historical fantasy setting. Crispin and Ned are characters who linger in the heart long after the final page, and their journey together is both inspiring and deeply moving. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Charm of Magpies series or a newcomer looking for a captivating read, Rag and Bone delivers on every front. I wholeheartedly recommend diving into this enchanting world—you won’t want to leave.
You can buy Rag and Bone by KJ Charles with my Amazon Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4jbW8r6
Comments
Post a Comment