Title: A Daring Romance Awaits in The Marriage Method by Mimi Matthews
Does anyone else feel an inexplicable thrill when a book promises intrepid heroines taking on society’s ruffians? Because that’s precisely what caught my eye with The Marriage Method (The Crinoline Academy, #2) by Mimi Matthews. I dove into this historical romance with a curious heart, eager to explore a narrative that promises both thrilling peril and heartfelt passion.
Penelope Trewlove, or Nell for short, is a dynamo of a character, tasked with thwarting the prying eyes of Miles Quincey, the relentless editor in chief of London Courant, as he starts looking into a charity school for girls. The tension escalates when a twist of fate—thank you, feline magic—lands Nell and Miles in a rather compromising position. What begins as a convenient marriage blossoms into an ardent friendship and eventually deep, genuine love. This transformation is skillfully crafted against a Victorian backdrop that buzzes with life and societal restrictions, making the romance all the more poignant.
Let’s talk about Nell: her resourcefulness is awe-inspiring as she navigates the oppressive norms of her time. Even when faced with physical danger—sustaining injuries that would make most cower—her spirit remains unbeaten. I couldn’t help but cheer for her as she utilized a walking stick not just as a support, but as a weapon against injustice. Matthews’s ability to create a heroine who battles against the patriarchy with strength and flair drew me in deeply, making me root for her throughout the journey.
And then there’s Miles—oh, how he captured my heart! With his methodical nature and unyielding dedication to the truth, he quickly became one of my favorite heroes. His genuine love for cats and affection for Nell brought an endearing complexity to his character. The way he respects Nell’s capabilities, yet genuinely grapples with the desire to protect her, is a refreshing take on a romantic lead. One of my favorite moments comes when a friend quips about Miles’s affinity for cats, comparing him humorously to a “dog with a bone.”
The novel has its darker themes, delving into issues such as how Victorian brothelkeepers exploited young girls—a sobering yet necessary aspect of the story. Matthews handles these themes with sensitivity, beautifully balancing them with the growing romance between Nell and Miles that nearly brought me to tears. Their relationship is imbued with aching tenderness; the weight of a glance or the softness of a shared moment is palpable and intoxicating. When the bedroom door is teasingly ajar, trust me, I was not prepared—a delightful surprise that added extra spice to the narrative!
As I closed the book, anticipation surged within me for the next installment featuring Gemma and Garrick. With every turn of the page, The Marriage Method reaffirms my love for historical romance imbued with social consciousness and character-driven plots.
If you relish a well-crafted historical romance with fierce heroines and swoon-worthy heroes who are allies rather than saviors, then this book is for you. Prepare for a whirlwind of passion, danger, and a good dose of societal rebellion. Also, let’s give a shout-out to Shadow the cat—he truly steals the show!
Thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for the e-ARC; all opinions are my own. Happy reading!
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