One of my recent favorite author finds is Mimi Matthews. Not long ago, I reviewed her book, “The Matrimonial Advertisement,” and absolutely loved it. Since then, I’ve read all of her novels and eagerly awaited the release of the second book in her Parish Orphans of Devon series, “A Modest Independence.”
About “A Modest Independence”
“A Modest Independence” picks up with secondary characters from “The Matrimonial Advertisement.” Tom Finchley, a legal advisor and friend to Justin Thornhill, meets Jenny Holloway, a strong-willed lady’s maid with fiery red hair, through Justin. After receiving a large financial settlement from Justin’s wife Helena, Jenny is determined to live on her own terms.
Jenny has always been controlled by selfish men, but she craves freedom and adventure. She’s attracted to the quietly intense Tom but refuses to let that sway her plans. With her new financial independence, she books a trip to India, aiming to uncover the truth about Helena’s supposedly dead brother.
As Jenny’s trustee, Tom feels responsible and can’t let her make such a dangerous trip alone. He fears for her safety and can’t imagine losing her from his life. Throughout their journey, as they draw closer to their destination, Tom and Jenny also grow closer to each other. Both are solitary souls who never planned to marry, but their mutual attraction and intimacy bloom over thousands of miles. The real question becomes whether they can reconcile their need for independence with their growing love.
Tom and Jenny: A Dynamic Pair
Jenny is ahead of her time, fiercely independent and eager to see the world, which is something I relate to. She doesn’t let societal expectations stop her from chasing her dreams. Tom, on the other hand, is more reserved. As an orphan, he learned to guard his privacy and emotions, but he’s thoughtful and considerate.
A Mature Romance
One of the highlights of “A Modest Independence” is the mature romance between Tom and Jenny. They treat each other with respect and are honest and vulnerable about their feelings and needs. This makes their relationship feel genuine and inspiring. Both characters are open with themselves about the internal conflicts between their desires and their growing need for one another.
Social Justice and Romantic Journeys
Much like “The Matrimonial Advertisement,” Mimi Matthews addresses social justice issues in this book, focusing on the relationship between Britain and India. Her balanced approach gives readers a new perspective on colonization, neither villainizing nor white-washing either side.
“A Modest Independence” is deeply romantic, appealing not just to those who love a good romance but also to fans of travel adventures. The story takes readers from England to Marseilles, across Egypt to Malta, and through India, providing an immersive travel experience that mirrors the ups and downs of Tom and Jenny’s relationship.
Overall
Mimi Matthews has once again showcased her talent with a story filled with romance, adventure, and realistic characters. Her portrayal of the Victorian era is vivid and honest, addressing social inequalities with compassion. If you enjoy well-written historical fiction, you’ll find “A Modest Independence” highly rewarding.
Adaptation Recommendation
This book would make a fantastic film, with its rich historical settings in England, Egypt, and India. The author’s Pinterest page suggests Eleanor Tomlinson and Shaun Evans as visual inspirations for Jenny and Tom, and I couldn’t agree more.
Content Note
“A Modest Independence” is a clean read, free from any objectionable content.
