A review by natashaleighton_
An Unladylike Secret by Amita Murray

adventurous challenging emotional funny 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

The third novel in the Marleigh Sisters series was just as fabulously compelling and witty as its predecessors—And I can honestly say I loved each and every swoon-worthy second! 

As someone who’s been a fan since book one (Unladylike Lessons In Love) I’ve loved getting to know each of the Marleigh sisters (Lila, Anya and Mira). Their unique personalities, struggles and emotional journeys have been incredible, with story arcs that never shy away from the hard hitting social commentary of the era. 

Yet, it’s Amita Murray’s ability to deftly explore those topics (such as racial identity, class inequality and the legacy of colonialism) via each sister’s experiences. And have them not only question those views, but openly defy them (along with the rigid expectations placed upon them as women) that really made this series soo good. Well, that and the scorchingly swoon-worthy romance.

I also loved Mira, the youngest Marleigh sister (a gossip columnist writing under a male pseudonym.) Who is definitely a little more cautious than her sisters, both of whom are perfectly happy to court scandal with their antics and success. Prefering to observe than to be in the spotlight under scrutiny, Mira’s definitely the sister I related to the most. 

Her journey to self awareness, and the strength and determination she finds within herself (as she uncovers the truth and fights actively against the injustice she witnesses) was phenomenally complex. And by the end, had me utterly satisfied at the transformation and emotional growth we see in her. 

Finn, Mira’s love interest (wrongly accused of murdering his own brother) was a nuanced and multifaceted character too. Born into slavery and freed by his father as a boy, only to be sidelined then bullied by his stepmother and half brother. He’s always existed on the periphery of Regency society (like Mira who has always felt like an outsider), so rejects everything it stands for (in an act of emotional self-preservation). 

But in meeting Mira, he lets down his emotional barriers and finally opens up to the idea of trust and love that was utterly heartwarming to watch unfold. 

The prose flows soo well too, with vividly lush descriptions and an immersive Devonshire setting that was a wonderfully refreshing change from the usual London. The feisty (and mostly female), supporting cast were fabulous too and I’d love to see more of Lucretia, Ursula and Morgan in future novels/spin offs.

And last but not least, I loved seeing Mira reunite with her sisters and work through their fraught relationship. It really highlighted just how far they’ve all come emotionally since their childhood, and I think Mira really needed that sisterly sense of support and love, after the circumstances she finds herself grappling. They’ve still got a long way to go but I’d love to explore their bond more in future works, maybe as they find/reconcile with their youngest (triplet) siblings .

Overall, a gorgeously crafted and emotionally resonant read that fans of regency romance, Georgette Heyer or Julia Quinn really need to consider checking out. Though do check the TWs. 

Also, a huge thank you to Amita for sending me a finished copy— I can’t wait to see where your writing takes me next! 
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