In The Naturalist Society, Carrie Vaughn crafts an enchanting tale that seamlessly weaves together Victorian-era natural science, magic, and romance. Set against the backdrop of 1880s America, this novel introduces a unique magical system called Arcane Taxonomy, where naming and classifying natural phenomena grants practitioners special powers. While the concept might sound academic, Vaughn brings it to vibrant life through her compelling characters and rich historical detail.
The Heart of the Story: Magic Through Classification
Elizabeth Stanley, a talented but constrained female naturalist, finds herself in an impossible position after her husband’s death. In a world where only men are permitted to practice Arcane Taxonomy, she has been publishing groundbreaking work under her husband’s name. When two ambitious explorers – Brandon West and Anton Torrance – come seeking her late husband’s research for their planned Antarctic expedition, they discover her secret. What follows is a complex dance of power, attraction, and societal expectations that challenges the rigid structures of Victorian society.
Characters That Soar
Beth Stanley
Beth emerges as a fascinating protagonist whose growth from a seemingly proper Victorian widow to a woman who claims her own power forms the emotional core of the story. Her relationship with birds, both as a naturalist and an Arcanist, serves as a powerful metaphor for her own journey toward freedom.
Brandon West & Anton Torrance
The duo of Brandon West and Anton Torrance brings depth to the narrative. West, a talented Arcanist struggling with his own limitations, and Torrance, a mixed-race explorer fighting prejudice at every turn, are fully realized characters whose relationship defies contemporary social norms.
Strengths and Literary Achievements
World-Building Excellence
The magic system is thoroughly researched and logically constructed
Historical details feel authentic without overwhelming the narrative
Scientific terminology is seamlessly integrated into the story
Thematic Richness
Exploration of gender roles and societal constraints
Commentary on scientific discovery and its relationship with power
Questions about the nature of knowledge and who gets to claim it
Character Development
Complex relationships that evolve organically
Well-rounded supporting characters
Authentic period dialogue that never feels forced
Areas for Improvement
While The Naturalist Society is a strong novel overall, there are aspects that could have been enhanced:
The pacing in the middle section occasionally slows, particularly during the Maine sequences
Some secondary characters could have been more fully developed
The resolution of certain plot threads feels slightly rushed
Writing Style and Technical Execution
Vaughn’s prose shines brightest in her descriptions of the natural world and magical phenomena. Her background in fantasy writing (notably the Kitty Norville series) serves her well here, but this represents a more mature and nuanced approach to worldbuilding. The attention to historical detail and scientific accuracy demonstrates thorough research without becoming pedantic.
Comparisons and Context
Fans of Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell or Mary Robinette Kowal’s Glamourist Histories will find familiar elements here, but Vaughn’s approach to magical science feels fresh and original. The novel also shares thematic elements with Elizabeth Gilbert’s The Signature of All Things, particularly in its exploration of women in science during the Victorian era.
Impact and Significance
The Naturalist Society makes a significant contribution to the historical fantasy genre by:
Introducing a unique magical system based on scientific principles
Addressing historical inequities in scientific fields
Exploring LGBTQ+ themes in a historical context
Challenging conventional narratives about women in Victorian society
Critical Analysis
Narrative Structure
The novel’s structure mirrors its themes, with careful classification and observation leading to deeper understanding. Vaughn’s decision to include historical interludes about real naturalists adds depth to the worldbuilding while grounding the fantasy elements in reality.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between Beth, Bran, and Anton develops with remarkable subtlety and sensitivity. Rather than falling into melodrama, their connection grows naturally from shared intellectual passion and mutual respect.
Thematic Resonance
The book’s exploration of power – who has it, who doesn’t, and how it can be claimed – feels particularly relevant to contemporary discussions about representation in scientific fields.
Final Verdict
The Naturalist Society is a good read for its innovative approach to historical fantasy, complex characters, and thoughtful exploration of social issues. While not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its minor flaws, making it a worthy addition to both the historical fantasy genre and Vaughn’s bibliography.
Recommendations for Readers
This book is ideal for:
Fans of historical fantasy with scientific elements
Readers interested in Victorian-era social dynamics
Those who enjoy complex magical systems
Anyone seeking LGBTQ+ representation in historical settings
Looking Ahead
With The Glass Slide World set to continue the story, Vaughn has established a rich foundation for further exploration of this fascinating world. The questions raised about the nature of power, knowledge, and identity promise intriguing developments in future installments.
Conclusion
The Naturalist Society represents a mature and thoughtful addition to the historical fantasy genre. Vaughn’s careful attention to historical detail, combined with her imaginative magical system and complex character relationships, creates a compelling narrative that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.