Glamour in Glass

A honeymoon trip to the Continent threatens Jane and David Vincent’s relationship—and their lives—in the somewhat uneven sequel to Shades of Milk and Honey, set in a magic-tinged Regency era. The newlyweds travel to Belgium to compare techniques of the magical illusions called glamour with an old colleague of Vincent’s, but Jane’sinitial excitement turns to concern for her marriage when Vincent’s secretive habits and acceptance of a private glamour commission leave her feeling increasingly isolated. Meanwhile, Napoleon escapes from Elba, and Jane and Vincent’s ability to create invisibility via glamour makes them a target for the returning emperor’s forces. While Kowal’s focus shifts somewhat abruptly from magical-scientific exploration to espionage adventure, the setting and the intricate techniques of glamour manipulation continue to intrigue, and the thoughtful portrayal of the difficulties of Jane and Vincent’s affectionately nontraditional partnership is thoroughly engaging. Agent: Jennifer Jackson, the Donald Maass Agency. (Apr.)