Susan Carroll's Charmless is a delightful romp through a fantastical world where fairy tale conventions are turned on their head, and the result is both entertaining and thought-provoking. At its core, the novel explores themes of autonomy, the complexities of love, and the consequences of one's actions, all wrapped up in a narrative that is as charming as it is witty.

The protagonist, Ella Upton, is a refreshing departure from the typical damsel in distress. She is a character with agency, wit, and a strong sense of self-preservation. From the outset, Ella is portrayed as a woman who is not afraid to take matters into her own hands, whether it be clobbering a prince to escape his unwanted advances or breaking into a treasury to help a friend. This proactive approach to her circumstances sets the tone for the entire novel and provides a strong foundation for her character development.

One of the most compelling aspects of Charmless is its exploration of the theme of autonomy. Ella's struggle to maintain her independence in the face of Prince Florian's relentless pursuit is a central conflict in the story. Florian, with his arrogance and refusal to accept rejection, serves as a foil to Ella's desire for freedom. His character, while initially appearing as a caricature of the entitled prince, is gradually revealed to have more depth, particularly as the story delves into his past and the pressures of royal expectations. This nuanced portrayal adds layers to the narrative, making Florian more than just a one-dimensional antagonist.

The love triangle between Ella, Commander Horatio Crushington, and Prince Florian is another intriguing element of the story. Horatio, the object of Ella's affections, is depicted as a noble and honorable character, providing a stark contrast to Florian's brashness. The chemistry between Ella and Horatio is palpable, and their interactions are filled with genuine warmth and humor. Carroll skillfully navigates the complexities of this romantic entanglement, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding in relationships.

Beyond the romantic elements, Charmless delves into the consequences of one's actions, particularly through the subplot involving the magical orb. Ella's decision to steal the orb for her friend Malcolm Hawkridge sets off a chain of events that threaten not only her own safety but also the stability of the kingdom. This subplot adds an element of intrigue and suspense to the narrative, as Ella must unravel the mystery of the orb's true significance and its connection to an ancient legend. The inclusion of the Great Mercato, the king's powerful wizard, adds an additional layer of tension, as his motivations and allegiance remain shrouded in mystery.

Carroll's writing is both engaging and humorous, with a keen eye for detail that brings the world of Arcady to life. Her use of language is particularly effective in conveying the whimsical and often absurd nature of the story, with clever wordplay and vivid descriptions that enhance the reading experience. The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with moments of action and suspense interspersed with quieter, character-driven scenes that allow for deeper exploration of the themes.

In comparison to other works in the fantasy genre, Charmless stands out for its subversion of traditional fairy tale tropes. While it shares similarities with stories like Gail Carson Levine's Ella Enchanted and Shannon Hale's The Goose Girl, Carroll's novel distinguishes itself through its irreverent tone and focus on the protagonist's quest for autonomy. The book's humor and wit are reminiscent of Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, though Carroll's narrative remains firmly rooted in the realm of fairy tales.

Overall, Charmless is a captivating and enjoyable read that offers a fresh take on the fairy tale genre. Its exploration of themes such as autonomy, love, and the consequences of one's actions is both insightful and entertaining. Susan Carroll has crafted a story that is not only a delightful escape into a fantastical world but also a thoughtful reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the importance of staying true to oneself. For readers seeking a novel that combines humor, romance, and intrigue, Charmless is a must-read.