A Brilliantly Fashioned Tale About NOT Choosing Between Love and Duty

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Blog Tour

TYPE OF NOVEL: Victorian Romance

SERIES: Belles of London #1

THE PREMISE: With an older sister who caused scandal and four younger sisters dependent on her for their security and success, Evelyn Maltravers is determined to make a wealthy match during her one and only London season. Evelyn’s plans for attracting attention with the ton involve exhibiting her equestrian skills in a haute couture riding habit made from the best but not-yet-established habit-maker in town, Ahmad Malik. Ahmad Malik is also in possession of ambitious dreams and a deadline – can partnering up the unknown and unconnected Evelyn Maltravers help him realize his goals?

WHAT I LOVED:

• Evelyn Maltravers: With her glasses, grit, and sincere earnestness, Evelyn is an immediately endearing heroine whom I adored completely. What I love most about her is that she is a woman of action – she did things for herself, and didn’t depend on others to solve her problems. She is industrious, pragmatic, bold, and not at bit judgmental or prejudiced. Not only is Evelyn a likable heroine, but also a surpassingly admirable heroine readers should aspire to emulate.

• Ahmad Malik: What a hero – a visionary talent with fashion, a discriminated half Indian/half British tradesman that gracefully endures his lack of belonging in society, and a supremely honorable human who continuously treats others with respect and gentleness, despite the insults and prejudices he faces. I admired Ahmad for his compassion, his resilience, and his unselfish restraint.

• Evelyn and Ahmad: So perfect! I loved the pairing of these two unconventional characters. The chemistry and attraction between these two was everything that is swoon-worthy and satisfying! But what I really loved best was seeing the intimacy between them. The quiet moments alone where their deepest cares and inner selves were revealed. Their openness and fervent care for each other was powerful and inspiring.

• Prejudices and Acceptances: I appreciated the inclusion and portrayal of different classes and races in this story. Working girls, tradesmen, emigrants from other countries – there were many viewpoints and walks of life shared. And while the racism, ostracism, and intolerance of some is disheartening to witness, it is an authentic representation of the time and made the moments of acceptance and embracing of others who are different all the more rewarding to witness.

• World Building: While reading this story, I felt myself transplanted into 1862 Victorian London. The sites around town, the journeys to different districts, the encounters in ballrooms and Rotten Row – everything was exquisitely and vividly represented. Not to mention the fashions – so sumptuous and easy to visualize. But it wasn’t just the sights and scenery, Mimi Matthews established a whole cast of intriguing and well-drawn characters that helped manifest this tangible and vibrant world.

• The Promise of More: I’m so elated this book is a series because I cannot wait to spend more time with all these characters. I adored Evelyn’s dearest friends – Anna, Julia, and Stella. But I also found myself intrigued by Captain Blunt, Mr. Hartford, Anthony and Fenella, and the Finchleys. It looks like Book 2 of this series – The Belle of Belgrave Square – will feature Julia and Captain Blunt (I can’t wait!), and that the Finchleys were featured in an older novel – A Modest Independence (adding it to my TBR pile!) – which makes sense since there was an extensive history between Ahmad, Mira, and this couple.

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

• Spiritualism: I appreciate the accuracy of including some spiritual elements because it was very much in fashion for the Victorian Era and can understand how it served as a vehicle to bring about certain events in this plot, but I will admit the spiritual encounters of the story were not my favorite parts.

CONCLUSION:

Because I so admire the talent and prose of Mimi Matthews I stepped out of the Austenesque and Regency worlds I know so well and eagerly leapt into this vivacious Victorian world full of diversity and development. The Siren of Sussex is an exceptionally designed and meticulously tailored romance. Thoughtful themes and situations are sewn together with compelling characters in this most accomplished and striking ensemble. I highly recommend!

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GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

Mimi has generously offered a fabulous giveaway package in conjunction with her blog tour!

This gift package includes a:

• Signed print copy of The Siren of Sussex
• Horse scarf
• Pewter sidesaddle brooch (made in Sussex, England!)
• The Siren of Sussex tote bag
• Three candles in scents: Fresh Hay, New Saddle, and Winter Ride
• Box of Ahmad Tea (60 count, assorted flavors)
• The Siren of Sussex bookmark

Commenting on this post and entering through the rafflecopter widget on this blog enters you in a chance to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

• This giveaway is open to US residents.  Thank you, Mimi!
• This giveaway ends February 7th!

My sincere gratitude to Laurel Ann Nattress of Austenprose for putting this lovely blog tour together and inviting me to take part!