Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore

Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore 5 of 5 stars.
To be released January 2010

Nimira is a music-hall girl used to dancing for pennies. So when wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to sing accompaniment to a mysterious piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it will be the start of a better life. In Parry's world, long-buried secrets are about to stir. Unsettling rumors begin to swirl about ghosts, a madwoman roaming the halls, and Parry's involvement with a league of sorcerers who torture fairies for sport. When Nimira discovers that the spirit of a dashing fair gentleman is trapped within the automaton, she is determined to break the curse. But even as the two fall into a love that seems hopeless, breaking the curse becomes a perilous race against time. Because it's not just the future of these star-crossed lovers that's at stake, but the fate of the entire magical world.

Jaclyn Dolamore weaves a beautiful story of love, loss, lies and magic with the ease more seasoned authors envy. You will be sucked into the story as soon as you open the book. The characters are lovable and real with voices all their own. The mythology of the tale is told in a way that flows easily and seems utterly effortless. Nimira's magical and alluring world somewhat mirrors that of are own but holds its own distinctions with a solid base. I would definitely suggest this book to anyone who loves a good fantasy. There is plenty of action and intrigue. If you enjoy a fast-paced fairytale free of common cliches this is the book for you.
I look forward to seeing more from this talented author.

For fans of: The Gemma Doyle Trilogy, Gail Carson Levine, Faerie Path