logo

53 pages 1 hour read

The Rules of Magic

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Alice Hoffman

The Rules of Magic

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

367

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1960s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman is a prequel to Practical Magic and follows siblings Frances, Jet, and Vincent Owens as they navigate their inherited magical abilities and the family curse that dooms those they love. Living in 1950s New York, their quest for understanding leads them to their Aunt Isabelle's house in Massachusetts, where they confront the consequences of their lineage and the curse's impact on their lives and loves. This book includes themes of grief, familial loss, and generational curses.

Mysterious

Emotional

Romantic

Fantastical

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

134,832 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Alice Hoffman's The Rules of Magic masterfully blends magical realism with poignant family drama, earning praise for its richly drawn characters and evocative prose. While some critics feel the pacing is uneven, others appreciate its lush narrative and emotional depth. A captivating prequel to Practical Magic, it resonates with both newcomers and longtime fans.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Rules of Magic?

The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman appeals to readers fascinated by family sagas intertwined with magical realism. Fans of Practical Magic and The Night Circus will appreciate the enchanting atmosphere, emotional depth, and richly woven narratives. Ideal for those who enjoy exploring themes of love, destiny, and self-discovery.

4.2

134,832 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Frances Owens

The eldest daughter in the Burke-Owens family, known for her tall frame, pale skin, and red hair, with a love for studying family history and a special ability to communicate with birds.

The second daughter of the Burke-Owens family, recognized for her black hair and shyness, with the ability to read others' thoughts and an affinity for cats.

The only son in the Burke-Owens family, charismatic and musically gifted, who struggles with being an outsider and foreseeing future events.

A stylish former model who distances herself from the Owens family traditions to create a normal life in Manhattan, despite her hidden beliefs in family superstitions.

Susanna's husband, a psychiatrist with a scientific approach who remains disconnected from his children's magical heritage.

The formidable and knowledgeable Owens matriarch residing in the family homestead, who embraces her magical identity and guides the younger generations.

The historical ancestor who initiated the Owens family curse after a tumultuous relationship in the late 1600s, whose story is uncovered through her diary.

A rebellious Owens cousin known for her bold personality and willingness to embrace her magical abilities and family identity.

A descendant of witch-hunters who initially suspects the Owens family but eventually seeks reconciliation.

Reverend Willard's son, a significant presence in Jet's life, known for his calm and understanding nature.

Frances's love interest, a doctor who values serving others and has deep ties to the Massachusetts community.

Seen as a rival and opposite to Frances, she briefly becomes involved with Haylin but ultimately represents the path of conventional life Frances does not take.

A vibrant individual marked by her double Owens lineage, with traits like singing and involving herself deeply in family traditions.

The cautious and responsible granddaughter of Susanna, who shares an affinity with birds.

Sally's adventurous younger sister, known for her fearless nature and love of discovery.

A kind and insightful presence in Jet’s life who becomes her lifelong friend without deepening their relationship romantically.

Book Details
Pages

367

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1960s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.