A modest independence

An independent woman struggles to reconcile love and freedom in this historical romance.Book 2 of Matthews' (A Holiday by Gaslight, 2018, etc.) Parish Orphans of Devon series picks up with Jenny Holloway and Thomas Finchley, two characters familiar to readers of the first installment. Jenny, a former lady's companion, has been gifted an inheritance and seeks adventure. But her money is controlled by Tom, a talented lawyer who trades in secrets. When Jenny sets out for India in search of a cousin who is presumed dead, Tom is compelled to accompany her. The pair, posing as brother and sister for propriety's sake, embark on a long journey to Delhi. Their time together in close quarters on ships and trains only strengthens their mutual attraction. But Jenny is loath to give up her newfound liberty for a man, even one as kind and unusual as Tom. Though he tries to convince Jenny that he would never infringe on her autonomy, the realities of being a woman in Victorian society weigh heavily against him. The couple's journey across Egypt and India is full of colorful and descriptive prose. Jenny's first taste of spicy curry and the international blend of humanity on the streets of Calcutta firmly situate readers in a striking past. As always, Matthews' attention to historical accuracy is impeccable. From the rigid standards and expectations of Victorian courtship to the siege of Jhansi, she has clearly done her research. Her characters are a refreshing change from the typical genre protagonists; for example, there is "nothing particularly remarkable about Thomas Finchley," the author writes. Yet his intellect and unabashed kindness are the stuff of true romance. As Jenny amusingly observes, a man who can navigate bureaucracy is far more useful than the white knights of penny novels. While Tom's relationship with Jenny remains mostly chaste, Matthews manages to imbue their interactions with an enviable romantic tension. Strong, smart characters and a daring quest result in a Victorian love story with a charmingly modern sensibility. Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.