One of the things that stands out to me about this series (and Courtney Milan's books) is how they will tackle relevant current issues, just in a Victorian setting. In this book, you have the realities of terrible working conditions, the poverty of the working poor, abuses of power, the powerlessness and marginalization of women, and the issue of homophobia. Tackling these issues could be done in a heavy-handed way, but Milan never forgets why we're reading: for the love story. While this book has our couple being influenced by these elements, their story isn't overshadowed by them and even though Minnie's secret is definitely a heavy and potentially explosive one, there are still moments that are adorable and humorous. It's is not a clean read, but like Julia Quinn's books, there's more to the story and their relationship than simple physical attraction. Minnie and Robert develop a strong relationship even as they face challenges and go to 'war' with each other over Unionizing flyers.
Synopsis
Miss Minerva Lane is a quiet, bespectacled wallflower, and she wants to keep it that way. After all, the last time she was the center of attention, it ended badly--so badly that she changed her name to escape her scandalous past. Wallflowers may not be the prettiest of blooms, but at least they don't get trampled. So when a handsome duke comes to town, the last thing she wants is his attention. But that is precisely what she gets.
