Book Reviews for This Month
This month, we’re diving into several new books: Miss Austen by Gill Hornby, The Orchard House by Heidi Chiavaroli, Shielded by KayLynn Flanders, Ladies of the House: A Modern Retelling of Sense and Sensibility by Lauren Edmondson, Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunsmore, and The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss by Amy Noelle Parks.
About Reviews of the Month
Our Reviews of the Month feature is published monthly on The Silver Petticoat Review. We alternate between posting movie and TV reviews one month and book reviews the next. This roundup combines shorter reviews available on this page with links to full standalone reviews. We hope this helps us recommend even more engaging content for you to enjoy.
To explore the book reviews, you can either scroll down or click the titles below that catch your interest.
Brief Book Reviews
Bringing Down the Duke (Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Chick Lit)
Ladies of the House: A Modern Retelling of Sense and Sensibility (Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Retellings)
Miss Austen (Historical Fiction)
The Orchard House (Christian Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Historical Fiction, Time-Slip)
Shielded (YA, Fantasy, Romance, Adventure)
The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost Kiss (YA, Contemporary Romance, Realistic Fiction)
Full Book Reviews
– ‘The Brass Queen’ by Elizabeth Chatsworth (Gaslamp Fantasy, Steampunk, Rom-Com, Historical Fiction, Science Fiction, Adventure)
– ‘Georgana’s Secret’ by Arlem Hawks (Historical Fiction, Regency Romance, Clean Romance, Adventure)
Review: Bringing Down the Duke by Evie Dunsmore
Genres: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Chick Lit
Synopsis: Set in England in 1879, the story follows Annabelle Archer, a brilliant but poor vicar’s daughter. Annabelle secures a place as one of the first female students at Oxford University. In return for her scholarship, she must contribute to the women’s suffrage movement by enlisting influential men to support the cause. Among them is the Duke of Montgomery, who is initially appalled by her but soon finds his emotions complicated by desire.
Review by Autumn: This novel vividly portrays the British suffrage movement within a historical romance narrative. It combines wit, romance, and well-developed characters. While some of Annabelle and the Duke’s inner thoughts lean heavily into lust and explicit content, the novel remains a standout for its historical detail and passionate storytelling. Adaptation Recommendation: Could be an engaging TV show similar to Bridgerton. Content Note: Contains explicit scenes.
Review: Ladies of the House: A Modern Retelling of Sense and Sensibility by Lauren Edmondson
Genres: Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Retellings
Synopsis: Daisy Richardson’s life is turned upside down after her father’s scandalous secrets are revealed posthumously. Struggling to maintain her family’s status amid financial ruin and public disgrace, Daisy must face new challenges and find her voice amid social turmoil.
Review by Amber: This modern retelling of Jane Austen’s classic includes insightful social commentary and a fresh political twist. While some strong language and character choices might not appeal to all readers, the story is well-written and maintains the essence of the original. Adaptation Recommendation: It would serve well as a charming TV movie. Content Note: PG-13 content, including strong language.
Review: Miss Austen by Gill Hornby
Genres: Historical Fiction
Synopsis: Set in 1840, Cassandra Austen searches for her sister Jane’s letters to uncover secrets from their past. The narrative alternates between the elderly Cassandra and her vibrant younger self, interweaving historical fiction with emotional depth.
Review by Amber: This novel offers a heartwarming portrayal of Cassandra Austen’s life, filled with historical research and rich imaginings. The strong bond between sisters and the love shared among women drive this story. Adaptation Recommendation: Could be a delightful period drama. Content Note: Mild content.
Review: The Orchard House by Heidi Chiavaroli
Genres: Christian Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Historical Fiction, Time-Slip
Synopsis: The book follows two women in different centuries, each dealing with personal struggles while connected through Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House. Taylor in 2019 and Johanna in 1865 both seek belonging and hope amid their challenges.
Review by Amber: Fans of Louisa May Alcott will appreciate this touching narrative on forgiveness and resilience. Chiavaroli skillfully switches between timelines, making for an engrossing read. Adaptation Recommendation: Could be adapted into a movie similar to Possession. Content Note: Includes some depictions of abuse.
Review: Shielded by KayLynn Flanders
Genres: Young Adult Fantasy, Teen Romance
Synopsis: In a kingdom on the brink of war, Princess Jennesara longs to help her people but is instead sent to marry a prince from a neighboring land. On her journey, a dangerous threat emerges, forcing her to reveal a secret that could save her kingdom.
Review by Autumn: Shielded combines familiar fantasy elements with a well-paced plot and engaging characters. The story becomes a fast-paced adventure filled with romance and intrigue. Adaptation Recommendation: Would make excellent feature films. Content Note: Contains mild fantasy violence.
Review: The Quantum Weirdness of the Almost-Kiss by Amy Noelle Parks
Genres: YA, Contemporary Romance, Realistic Fiction, Rom-Com
Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Evie Beckham, who struggles with anxiety and has always been too focused on math to date, suddenly finds herself navigating romantic interests and high school dynamics, including her best friend Caleb’s feelings for her.
Review by Autumn: This YA rom-com is a sweet, character-driven story. Evie’s development and the supportive friendship with Caleb stand out. Adaptation Recommendation: Perfect for Netflix’s YA rom-com lineup. Content Note: Moderate language and romantic scenes.
Which books caught your eye? Have you read any of them? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
