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If you have ever wanted to read a novel that was like the Victorian version of The Bodyguard, but with a lady scientist and not a pop star, then may I introduce you to Elizabeth Everett’s A Lady’s Formula for Love?
In a similar vein to when I read Evie Dunmore’s League of Extraordinary Women last year—I simply stumbled upon them and thought, “What the heck,” and read the entire series despite the fact they weren’t in my “normal” or “regular” genre—I have stumbled again upon a rather exquisitely delicious romance series, The Secret Scientists of London series.
The first installment, A Lady’s Formula for Love, was equal parts witty and sultry, leaving me unable to put down this rather entertaining read.
What I appreciated most was how quickly Everett thrust the two main characters together with rather explosive results, and in the first chapter, too! She did not draw it out nor give us an insanely long, slow burn, which I find myself preferring those quick sparks of infatuation bursting into roaring flames than those slow, simmering embers lately. Probably because that’s how my romance with my husband felt—instant and easy—but this was after three years of friendship.
Moving on, Lady Violet and Arthur’s romance was everything you might want in a romance. Their banter was quick and sharp; their personal stakes of what each had to loose should they give into their passions compelling arguments against indulging in their heart’s desires; and most importantly their chemistry was off the charts. Helps that Lady Violet herself is a professed, successful chemist. Of course, this makes her an oddity amongst the ton, which deem her reclusive and a taint of their preferred way of life. When she begins “fraternizing” with “the help,” i.e. her bodyguard, Arthur, scandal is sure to erupt. This sets the stage for certain hilarity and forbidden romance (my favourite).
The distinct characterizations I appreciated most about each of the main characters was Lady Violet’s transformation from insecure and shy widow to a bold and independent self-made woman. This journey draws out Arthur’s own transformation from the reserved and distant but stalwart bodyguard to a tender and sensitive partner. They compliment each other so well, I’d say it was like reading a match made in Heaven.
Oh—and did I mention that Lady Violet is probably the first full-figured, voluptuous “plus-sized” lead female character and love interest I think I’ve ever read about (that I remember) other than in my own writings? All the more reason why I adored Lady Violet; she reminded me so much of myself in so many ways. Definitely made me feel seen in a way I had not experienced before.
Everett also did a wonderful job with giving you enough subtle hints that if you weren’t pay attention, you’d mistake the plot’s main antagonist for the red herring. Great reveal at the end!
I am daring to say this series might be a new favourite, but we’ll have to wait and see what I think after I read book two, A Perfect Equation, so if you don’t mind, that’s what I shall go do!
Stay tuned to read my review of that book next!
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