Scan barcode
A review by fictionalkate
The Bluestocking Beds Her Bride by Fenna Edgewood
4.0
I’ve not read a Fenna Edgewood novel before but it didn’t take long for me to feel immersed in the world she’s made. Her characters are quick witted and passionate - about their own interests, in others, and in each other. Fleur and Lady Julia are both different in many ways but ultimately they are very similar. They want to help those less fortunate and have felt the pressures of the ton. Oh and they both prefer those of their own sex. The sparks between them are evident from their first meeting and each encounter felt hotter than the previous. I enjoyed being privy to their love story. But I was surprised by the circumstances around their romance too. Or rather the lack of circumstances.
This was my first F/F historical romance read and I had certain expectations. I couldn’t wait to see how they navigated the rules of society and how their love could bloom despite the expectations placed upon them. But Ms. Edgewood effectively sidestepped the ton’s impact of Fleur and Julia by having them exist in a society of their own where same sex relationships existed almost in their own little bubble. This was fantastic because it meant they didn’t have to hide and their romance wasn’t having to fight other external pressures. But I felt a little disappointed I didn’t get to witness how the historical elements of society impacted on them as a couple.
I liked the pacing, the secondary characters (I was thrilled to learn there will be a short story featuring Jasper and David coming out!), and the overall vibe of the novel. It’s fun and romantic. I loved that Lady Julia was a mother of six rambunctious children and Fleur was not overly partial to kids in general. The dramatic and suspense aspects of the novel were exciting but were secondary to the romance. I might have felt differently if I had read the previous stories and experienced his evilness more fully. Overall this was a great read. I think people are going to love the lack of societal pressure on Fleur and Julia or be disappointed in it but either way this story is full of romance and an entertaining read. 3.5 stars
This was my first F/F historical romance read and I had certain expectations. I couldn’t wait to see how they navigated the rules of society and how their love could bloom despite the expectations placed upon them. But Ms. Edgewood effectively sidestepped the ton’s impact of Fleur and Julia by having them exist in a society of their own where same sex relationships existed almost in their own little bubble. This was fantastic because it meant they didn’t have to hide and their romance wasn’t having to fight other external pressures. But I felt a little disappointed I didn’t get to witness how the historical elements of society impacted on them as a couple.
I liked the pacing, the secondary characters (I was thrilled to learn there will be a short story featuring Jasper and David coming out!), and the overall vibe of the novel. It’s fun and romantic. I loved that Lady Julia was a mother of six rambunctious children and Fleur was not overly partial to kids in general. The dramatic and suspense aspects of the novel were exciting but were secondary to the romance. I might have felt differently if I had read the previous stories and experienced his evilness more fully. Overall this was a great read. I think people are going to love the lack of societal pressure on Fleur and Julia or be disappointed in it but either way this story is full of romance and an entertaining read. 3.5 stars