By Jennifer Moore
Published by Covenant Communications
Description:
Lady Sophronia Bremerton is a far cry from the typical debutante, but she's the toast of London's upper class for one simple reason: she's a society columnist for the London Illustrated News, and the gentry loves seeing their exploits printed in the gossip pages. But Sophie has bigger plans - she aspires to be an investigative reporter. When a stuffy ballroom at yet another Season proves to be nothing more than the usual rumor mill, Sophie seeks respite in the library alongside four other young women who, for their own reasons, are also looking for escape. As the conversation turns to their secret ambitions, the women form a sisterhood and a bold plan: they will make their dreams a reality, no matter the obstacles. Thus begins the Blue Orchid Society.
Hearing of a murder in a London rookery, Sophie seizes the opportunity to prove her skills. Detective Jonathan Graham doesn't believe a civilian, a noblewoman at that, should be anywhere near a murder investigation, but Sophie insists on helping bring the killer to justice. Her investigative prowess doesn't go unnoticed by the police, especially Jonathan, who can't decide whether this intrepid reporter is a thorn in his side or the woman of his dreams. But as the case grows more complicated and dangerous, their very lives - and their hearts - may be at risk.
Review:
Victorian romances are a new favorite of mine. I really enjoy looking at some of the changes that were beginning to happen in society, and with this new Blue Orchid series, Jennifer Moore gives readers a look at women who are breaking into fields previously closed to them. I really liked how Sophie was determined to become a reporter who covered real stories and that she believed in her abilities and put them to good use. I also liked seeing how she enlisted the support of her friends as well as how she and Jonathan worked together. I would have liked to see more of Jonathan's background (and a little more romance, since it mainly happened at the end), but I did enjoy the mystery element and trying to piece together who the murderer was alongside the characters. I didn't like Sophie's family, and I couldn't help but wonder, having read the prequel novella, how Sophie's grandmother reared a son who cared more about society than his daughter; that aspect of the book was disappointing. All in all, a great start to a new series; I can't wait to read more!
4.5 stars.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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