Dorothea Grantham has a unique hobby of combining two of her passions, chemistry and embroidery, to create breathtaking silk scarves that look like they come from a far-away land, and not home country of England. It is a secret that needs to be kept as ladies during this time period do not dabble in science but Baron James Castleroy finds out Thea’s secret and finds her passion of chemistry and silks alluring. The fact that Thea’s creations look like they came from India causes quite a stir in London during Thea’s first Season, making many believe they’ve been illegally smuggled, which was a very real problem during that time. It is a unique premise that I can honestly say I’ve never read before, which was quite refreshing in and of itself.

There are little history lessons sprinkled throughout the novel, which I appreciated, and the fact that the two main characters share a fascination on the subject makes it all the sweeter. One topic this novel focuses on is facing your fears. Choosing to live and not stay in bondage to that which you’re most afraid of is very important and I related so much to this particular aspect. Thea’s greatest fear is completely relatable, and witnessing Lord Castleroy help her to face her fears with patience and understanding was one of my favorite parts of the story.

There was a pretty surprising twist at the climax of the story which I was not expecting and greatly appreciated as there were a few sections that did drag for me, and I was ready for a little spice. I do wish this part could’ve been a little more suspenseful and lasted just a tad longer.

Overall, I enjoyed this novel. It’s got a nice, even tempo and I really did enjoy learning all about silks and the practice of dying them during this time period. The relationship between James and Thea was so sweet and loved every moment they shared with each other. All of the supporting characters are absolutely wonderful, and the scenery was beautiful. I have really enjoyed this series and cannot wait to see where The Grantham Girls take us next!

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own. ( )

The Baron and the Lady Chemist, by Alissa Baxter, is book two in the Granthan Girls series. Having not read book one, I had no problems reading this book, so it is also a good stand alone story. This story is set in the early 1800's when women were not typically interested in chemistry and the purchase of imported silks was banned. I enjoyed the characters very much. I found the story very well written, easy to read and easy to imagine. I enjoyed the information about the silk fabric and chemistry. I liked the character of Thea as she learns what she can from books and experimenting, even though it is not something a woman would do. I enjoyed how Lord Castleroy gave her encouragement and helped her work through her fears. I also enjoyed the friendships Thea forms with him and his sister. This is a fun regency romance to read and enjoy.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review. ( )

Charming Regency romance

Our heroine, Dorothea Grantham, has a very different passion/hobby. Chemistry, and in particular the using of electricity to dye silks into brilliant colors. Thea then embroiders the fabrics, often with gold or silver thread, producing the most startling shawls and fichus.
So lovely that many think she’s wearing smuggled goods.
Britain at this stage has banned silks from Italy and France. This has become a lucrative item for smugglers and Thea finds herself the target of many knowing nods.
Thea can’t explain her silks, as her grandmother has forbidden her to discuss her hobby within the hearing of Polite Society.
One of those inquiring after her ‘purchases’ is Lord James Castleroy, a baron and a rather bothersome man who caught her coming out of her workshop with her hem ablaze after a chemistry mishap.
Unknown to Thea, James is part owner in a silk mill near Macclesfield. Hence his interest in the silks she adorns herself with. Others, with more dastardly motivations, are also interested in the provenance of Thea’s silks!
I must admit that my imagination ran riot with the description of her work.
A lively plot that uses the silk situation and Thea’s loves and fears to ground this nicely woven story set in Regency England.
Part of Dragonblade’s Sweet Dreams publications, this title is refreshingly free from anything more than delightful kisses.

A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher. ( )