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wilybooklover's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
4.0
A beautifully woven story full of longing and rich in historical detail.
I wish this had been a bit more slow burn, with more of a friendship forming first. It felt more like insta-lust the way they were so instantly enamoured of each other; a slower start would have been a bit more believable. Still, I loved both Ahmad and Evelyn separately and together. I especially enjoyed how respectful Ahmad was of women — not just middle- and upper-class women like Evelyn, but all women right down to sex workers. Evie’s independence and determination sets her up to be his ideal match despite the significant barrier of race and class. Their romance was so heartfelt and tender, full of simmering tension during the dressmaking scenes. Even when they didn’t think they could be together, they were open and honest about their feelings with each other.
I do think that you need to like both fashion and horses in order to enjoy this book, since they take such a prominent place in the plot. There’s also significant discussion on racism and colonialism that’s very naturally woven into Ahmad’s experience as a mixed race man in Victorian London. I loved that Evie takes it upon herself to buy books on India to inform herself on Ahmad’s experience. The addition of spiritualism was perhaps one plot point too many — all of these different things going on (there’s also subplots with Evie’s friends, one of Ahmad’s customers, Ahmad’s cousin, and Evie's sister) are kind of a detriment to the building romance, which could have had more focus.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Colonisation, Xenophobia, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Misogyny, Racial slurs, and Violence
Minor: Sexual content, Suicide, Death of parent, Pregnancy, and Panic attacks/disorders
jinjaritia's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent and Classism
Moderate: Racism, Colonisation, Medical content, Grief, Panic attacks/disorders, Xenophobia, Sexual harassment, and Suicide
Minor: War and Violence
marleywrites's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This book made me so happy. It dealt with tough topics, and there was a fair amount on angst. It was emotional and I was worried things wouldn’t end happily. But I never should have doubted, because, Evie. Need I say more?
I love Ahmad. He’s such a strong character and I was pleased with his character arc. I also loved his cousin, Mira. She was such a nice supporting character.
Evie’s friends were fun, too. I’m excited to see Julie’s story in book two!
I read this book because I wanted a horse girl book. And this did not disappoint. There is always room for more horses, but there was also plentiful horse content and metaphors in this book that I enjoyed.
I love Ahmad. He’s such a strong character and I was pleased with his character arc. I also loved his cousin, Mira. She was such a nice supporting character.
Evie’s friends were fun, too. I’m excited to see Julie’s story in book two!
I read this book because I wanted a horse girl book. And this did not disappoint. There is always room for more horses, but there was also plentiful horse content and metaphors in this book that I enjoyed.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Racism, Classism, and Sexism
Moderate: Pregnancy, Racial slurs, and Death of parent
Minor: Panic attacks/disorders, Colonisation, and Alcohol
imds's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexism, Racism, Racial slurs, Panic attacks/disorders, Misogyny, Classism, Death of parent, Sexual harassment, and Colonisation
Moderate: Abandonment
blainereads's review against another edition
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This was a very pleasant surprise. Never in my life did I think I'd enjoy a romance story about horses (well, amongst other things), but here we are!
The scope was rather ambitious; addressing race, colonization, women's rights, and spiritualism all in one text is probably never easy, but to do so within the constraints of a Victorian romance novel—and to do it well!—feels like quite an impressive accomplishment. (As is keeping the reader engaged during what might otherwise be tedious discussions and details of equine breeding and dressmaking, but the author delivered on those counts, too.)
My favorite part about this was how well-seated it was within the actual historical context of 1860s London. Some other reviews said it seemed like it tackled too much or too many subjects, but as a former student (and participant!) of history, this is exactly how history works—there ARE a lot of moving parts, many diverse social and economic elements converging at once to create tension that ultimately catalyzes change in society. I admit that there were times while reading that I thought, "Why are we spending time on this (seemingly tangential) plot point?" but ultimately, the author wove them together with precision and purpose that any previously held doubts were thoroughly debunked by the conclusion.
My only complaint might have to do with some of the side characters—though it's more of a complaint of the genre than of this work specifically—as some of those who were less-developed will likely be given their own novels later in the series. The bit about Julia and her anxiety, for example, felt out of place or an after-thought added in later to set-up her story. (I understand why that has to be done, but it was one of the only times I was really pulled out of the world. With that said, I will be reading on in the series!)
This story might not be for those readers who want spice (the book is definitely G/PG, but with no small dose of yearning and tension), but it is for those among us who want to learn about the time period and, for a couple hundred pages, journey with the characters through their lived experiences. To tackle race, especially, realistically and without being heavy-handed or unconvincingly imposing a 21st century mindset onto 19th century people is a difficult task and Mimi really nailed it.
The scope was rather ambitious; addressing race, colonization, women's rights, and spiritualism all in one text is probably never easy, but to do so within the constraints of a Victorian romance novel—and to do it well!—feels like quite an impressive accomplishment. (As is keeping the reader engaged during what might otherwise be tedious discussions and details of equine breeding and dressmaking, but the author delivered on those counts, too.)
My favorite part about this was how well-seated it was within the actual historical context of 1860s London. Some other reviews said it seemed like it tackled too much or too many subjects, but as a former student (and participant!) of history, this is exactly how history works—there ARE a lot of moving parts, many diverse social and economic elements converging at once to create tension that ultimately catalyzes change in society. I admit that there were times while reading that I thought, "Why are we spending time on this (seemingly tangential) plot point?" but ultimately, the author wove them together with precision and purpose that any previously held doubts were thoroughly debunked by the conclusion.
My only complaint might have to do with some of the side characters—though it's more of a complaint of the genre than of this work specifically—as some of those who were less-developed will likely be given their own novels later in the series. The bit about Julia and her anxiety, for example, felt out of place or an after-thought added in later to set-up her story. (I understand why that has to be done, but it was one of the only times I was really pulled out of the world. With that said, I will be reading on in the series!)
This story might not be for those readers who want spice (the book is definitely G/PG, but with no small dose of yearning and tension), but it is for those among us who want to learn about the time period and, for a couple hundred pages, journey with the characters through their lived experiences. To tackle race, especially, realistically and without being heavy-handed or unconvincingly imposing a 21st century mindset onto 19th century people is a difficult task and Mimi really nailed it.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racial slurs, Racism, Misogyny, and Violence
Minor: Death of parent, Suicide, and Panic attacks/disorders
allisonwonderlandreads's review against another edition
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
This historical romance is one of those majestic finds that puts the "historical" part first. While you won't find me casting stones at lovely fluff, I'm so impressed at works in the genre that dig into the meat of the time period and lead readers on a journey that feels more tangible and has the gravitas of real life.
The story takes us to 1860s London, where sensible Evelyn is conducting her one and only season for the future benefit of her younger sisters. Orphaned, haunted by a scandal brought on by her older sister, and staying with an absent uncle more interested in antiquities and spiritualism than society, Evelyn has only herself to rely on. She's an athletic equestrienne with a great appreciation for fashion, and she sets out to use her strengths to get ahead on the marriage mart rather than relying on tried and true methods that don't suit her skillset. She sets out to hire a tailor to make her a riding habit that will be the talk of the town. Ahmad Malik is the best at what he does, but he's itching to follow his passion as a dressmaker rather than working as a men's tailor. A partnership forms between them that will benefit Evelyn's husband hunt and Ahmad's need to have his designs seen and coveted by society. An inconvenient attraction brews between them that could derail both of their plans.
The historical detail covers a broad range of topics from the obvious fashion and tailoring to horsemanship and social expectations. There are also unexpected layers including the spiritualism fad sweeping through the aristocracy. As is typical for me, it's the social commentary I appreciated most. Ahmad's identity as both Indian and English is an important component of the story, which the author notes is informed by her own experiences. This necessitates conversations between the characters about the intersections between colonialism, race, and class. The approach is nuanced and shown on the page with both feeling and careful thought.
In terms of romance, I would categorize it as low-level tension in terms of pining, steam (closed door), and drama. Evelyn is a very determined character, equipping herself with multistep plans and consulting her conscience more than social expectation. Ahmad has very reasonable reservations about pursuing a relationship given the social barriers, but he is largely upfront with Evelyn about his concerns rather than hiding away in toxic masculinity to avoid his feelings. I appreciate that upper class courting habits are in no way romanticized here. The genre often falls into an interesting tension whereby these practices are largely portrayed as mercenary while still managing to tell all manner of stories that rely on them for a happily ever after. This one discards the whole experience of a season as stressful and unromantic as Evelyn and her friends fend off all manner of sexist aristocratic men, and Evelyn ultimately finds love not only outside the expected system but actually in defiance of those constraints and rules.
I admire everything this book sets out to accomplish. The lack of motion and excitement in the romance kept me from being fully enamored with the love story itself, but I enjoyed the historical-heavy components very much. Thanks to Berkley Romance for my copy to read and review!
The story takes us to 1860s London, where sensible Evelyn is conducting her one and only season for the future benefit of her younger sisters. Orphaned, haunted by a scandal brought on by her older sister, and staying with an absent uncle more interested in antiquities and spiritualism than society, Evelyn has only herself to rely on. She's an athletic equestrienne with a great appreciation for fashion, and she sets out to use her strengths to get ahead on the marriage mart rather than relying on tried and true methods that don't suit her skillset. She sets out to hire a tailor to make her a riding habit that will be the talk of the town. Ahmad Malik is the best at what he does, but he's itching to follow his passion as a dressmaker rather than working as a men's tailor. A partnership forms between them that will benefit Evelyn's husband hunt and Ahmad's need to have his designs seen and coveted by society. An inconvenient attraction brews between them that could derail both of their plans.
The historical detail covers a broad range of topics from the obvious fashion and tailoring to horsemanship and social expectations. There are also unexpected layers including the spiritualism fad sweeping through the aristocracy. As is typical for me, it's the social commentary I appreciated most. Ahmad's identity as both Indian and English is an important component of the story, which the author notes is informed by her own experiences. This necessitates conversations between the characters about the intersections between colonialism, race, and class. The approach is nuanced and shown on the page with both feeling and careful thought.
In terms of romance, I would categorize it as low-level tension in terms of pining, steam (closed door), and drama. Evelyn is a very determined character, equipping herself with multistep plans and consulting her conscience more than social expectation. Ahmad has very reasonable reservations about pursuing a relationship given the social barriers, but he is largely upfront with Evelyn about his concerns rather than hiding away in toxic masculinity to avoid his feelings. I appreciate that upper class courting habits are in no way romanticized here. The genre often falls into an interesting tension whereby these practices are largely portrayed as mercenary while still managing to tell all manner of stories that rely on them for a happily ever after. This one discards the whole experience of a season as stressful and unromantic as Evelyn and her friends fend off all manner of sexist aristocratic men, and Evelyn ultimately finds love not only outside the expected system but actually in defiance of those constraints and rules.
I admire everything this book sets out to accomplish. The lack of motion and excitement in the romance kept me from being fully enamored with the love story itself, but I enjoyed the historical-heavy components very much. Thanks to Berkley Romance for my copy to read and review!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Classism, Colonisation, Racism, and Xenophobia
Moderate: Sexism and Sexual harassment
Minor: Animal cruelty, Child abuse, Death of parent, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Pregnancy, Racial slurs, Rape, Suicide, and War
busybookbee's review
adventurous
funny
informative
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Although I asked myself why I was reading about the romance between an equestrian and a dressmaker, I really enjoyed this book. So many important topics were picked up, and beautifully dissected. Evelyn herself even saying “it is who has the ignorance, that has the task of curing it” (paraphrased).
Mental health was also a brief topic, but so well executed. I truly cared about the characters, even while wondering why I was reading the book, and I so much appreciate the research put into historical novels particularly. I would actually recommend this book, which is a big deal.
Mental health was also a brief topic, but so well executed. I truly cared about the characters, even while wondering why I was reading the book, and I so much appreciate the research put into historical novels particularly. I would actually recommend this book, which is a big deal.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism and Colonisation
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders and Death of parent
Minor: Racial slurs
100_pages_hr's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Mimi Matthews has some of the most beautiful historical writing. She immerses you in both the time and place if her books and draws you to her characters.
I absolutely loved Evie and Ahmad - especially together. I loved how the history of British colonization of India was included in this story. I loved reading about Ahmad's dresses and riding habits. I loved the descriptions of Evie when she is riding her horse. Everything was simply beautiful.
The air of forbidden romance was a great story premise. I thought the pacing was incredible as it kept me turning pages but wasn't rushed. The chemistry was also great. I loved how easily Evie and Ahmad fell into a friendship. I also really appreciated how race and culture were discussed throughout the book.
I'm not a huge fan of magic type stuff in a book so those elements pulled me out of the story a little - but other than that this was a great book.
This book is closed door but with some passionate kissing and Matthews writes this style so well because truthfully it is perfect the way it is.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Berkeley through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
I absolutely loved Evie and Ahmad - especially together. I loved how the history of British colonization of India was included in this story. I loved reading about Ahmad's dresses and riding habits. I loved the descriptions of Evie when she is riding her horse. Everything was simply beautiful.
The air of forbidden romance was a great story premise. I thought the pacing was incredible as it kept me turning pages but wasn't rushed. The chemistry was also great. I loved how easily Evie and Ahmad fell into a friendship. I also really appreciated how race and culture were discussed throughout the book.
I'm not a huge fan of magic type stuff in a book so those elements pulled me out of the story a little - but other than that this was a great book.
This book is closed door but with some passionate kissing and Matthews writes this style so well because truthfully it is perfect the way it is.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Berkeley through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism
Minor: Panic attacks/disorders, Pregnancy, and Racial slurs
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