Inventing Vivian

The Blue Orchid Society #2

by Jennifer Moore

A Victorian Romance

Ladies of London’s High Society are known for their social graces and poise. Vivian Kirby boasts neither of these enviable qualities, though she does offer impressive conversation on chemical compositions. Unfortunately, it appears that not many men want a brilliant wife. So it is that Vivian finds kinship with a group of young women who embrace each other’s differences: The Blue Orchid Society.

After an extended stay in China, Lord Benedict has returned transformed to his family’s estate, where an encounter with Vivian, whose scientific knowledge he once undermined, leaves him determined to make amends. He arranges to help forward her research—anonymously, of course. Through letters, Vivian establishes a warm friendship with her secret benefactor, even as she’s unexpectedly drawn into a murder investigation that forces her to work alongside Benedict to unearth the truth. Soon, Vivian fears she may be falling in love with two men, never suspecting that they are one and the same.

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Audiobook, Victorian, Clean Romance, Historical

224 pages, Paperback

First published June 7, 2021

About the author

Jennifer Moore is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance due to the need to balance the rest of her world, which includes a perpetually traveling husband and four active sons, who create heaps of laundry that are anything but romantic. Jennifer has a BA in linguistics from the University of Utah and is a Guitar Hero champion. She lives in northern Utah with her family.

Reviews

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun and engaging way to explore romance in the Victorian age!

Read full review in the 2021 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I love a book with a good, strong female lead and it was especially fun to watch Vivian develop her love of science. The Blue Orchid society is a wonderfully diverse and solid group of innovative young ladies in the Victorian era and it's such a joy to delve into each of their stories.

Vivian is very smart and not afraid to be true to herself. She's a sharp character that was a delight to read about and I just adored her. I loved Lord Benedict and the whole situation regarding him. Moore always introduces a thread to her stories that aren't the norm for the time periods she writes in, and this whole series is evident of that. The Chinese element was enjoyable and interesting as well.

Solid characters with a solid plot. Personally, I wanted more romance, since this is labeled as a Victorian romance, but all in all, this is a very entertaining book in a wonderful series and I'm anticipating the rest of the Society's stories.

Content: very mild romance; very mild moments of violence/peril

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

[Crystal (Books Are Sanity!!!) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivian is amazing and she made me kind of enjoy science; so she is winning! I love her sharp mind and intelligence. She wasn’t afraid to speak and be herself. That was super hard back in the Victorian era and even harder in this day and age to just have enough courage to be yourself. Benedict was so kind, thoughtful, giving, and selfless that any girl would fall for him. Except maybe one girl he did wrong back when they were kids. This story is intoxicating, I could not stop reading it, even during our family BBQ. My nose was in this book the whole time! The way that Moore mixes romance with mystery during the Victorian era makes this new breed of book that I cannot get enough of. The Blue Orchid Society is like my dream to have one day. A set of friends who love and encourage you for who you are and what you want to achieve in life. Honestly, this book was fantastically captivating and I look forward to the next installment in the series! I am crossing my fingers that there is one! Run and buy this book, you will love it too! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Isn't it wonderful that first impressions don't have to be last impressions? Lord Benedict and Vivian had a rocky beginning when they were youths. Their story grew from that enemy status to friends to love. I loved reading the progression. The story was written from both viewpoints so I knew the change and growth that each had experienced.

The story is set during the Victorian era. Vivian is a scientist and is not accepted in social circles. Her mind doesn't work like popular young women. She is bored with the genteel conversation and wants to talk about how stained glass is made. It is off-putting to many in society. She is blessed to have a group of friends who support and encourage her. Now, she just needs to find a gentleman who doesn't fit the mold. Lord Benedict proves to be a genuine and forward-thinking young man who is the "yin" to her "yang.

Inventing Vivian is a fun book to read. I stayed up late in the night (or early in the morning) finishing this gem. I love books written where women pave the way for others. The Blue Orchid Society women do not fit the mold but create a new one. This book is part of a series but can be read in any order. I would suggest starting with the first, it is not critical to this one but gives a perspective of the characters and anticipation for what is to come for these women next.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful!!! Vivian kept me on my toes with her mind and the way she thought. I think she kept several other people within the story on their toes as well. I loved her scenes and couldn't wait to see what she would say next. She is so very smart and a great asset to the women of her time (yes, I know it's fiction).

Not only Vivian, but the other lovely ladies of the Blue Orchid Society are smart and delightful. They were wonderful to watch as they stood up for each other, supported each other and truly showed what a friend was. None of those gossip mongering ladies and simpering debutantes pretending to be something they aren't. Nope. These ladies are real and true to each other. They are great and aren't afraid to go after their dreams and encourage others to do the same. I'm looking forward to more books in this series. We have some fun books to look forward to with these ladies and their leading men.

Vivian and Benedict have a bit of a hiccup from their past. But Lord Benedict doesn't let that stand in his way. He's not the boy he was years ago. He's grown and matured mentally as well as physically. He is a man with a purpose and knows what truly matters in life now. I really enjoyed watching his mind work as well and seeing him working with his man of business to make his factory a better and safer place as well as watching his mind work out a way to show Vivian he truly cares for her. *happy sigh*

I can't wait for everyone to pick up these books and enjoy them. They are truly delightful!!! Jennifer Moore has once again shown me why she is one of my favorite authors. My only struggle was that I couldn't read it fast enough. Lol! My life has been super busy that reading time was very, very limited. But I loved every minute that I was able to spend diving in and enjoying it. The characters are so well written and developed as well as the storyline that you're in for a treat! With oriental aspects and the Great Exhibition happening during this time, as well as all of Vivian's fun gadgets and gizmos and doo-dads, you're sure to be delighted around every turn.

Content: Clean.

I received a copy from the author and publisher. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Lindy Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 2nd installment in The Blue Orchid Society follows Vivian, a delightful woman with an incredibly scientific mind. She'd much rather be thinking about how to create a new useful inventions, chemical compounds, and scientific theory than chatting about the haute ton and who's who of Society.
I really adored Vivian. She's kind, thoughtful, a bit awkward, and completely adorable. I also loved the letters between Vivian and her peerage sponsor.
I also really loved Benedict, as a changed man and a little bit of a fish out of water after spending years in China, he's doing his best to stay true to himself while jumping into the deep end of Society.
This book is a little more romantic than the first, which I loved! The other ladies of The Blue Orchid Society play vital roles supporting Vivian in her dreams and goals and it is seriously the best. I love getting to know them all a little more with each book. I'm looking forward to future books in this series!

Thank you to the author and publisher for my advanced copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[The Flipped Page (Susan K) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance, sweet, period; series, but stand alone read
Vivian's a strong character who stands up for her curiosity, intelligence, cleverness, and tries to work her way around the expectations of polite society, but few care for her blue-stocking comments and actions. Being part of the Blue Orchid Society of strong women, who are seeking to pursue their betterment through
Lord Benedict is a wonderful character who has been transformed by his visit, and living in China. His friend, who is is helper and companion returns with him. They both are adjusting to expectations that Lord Benedict's family had for him to take his father's place after his brother's death. Lord Benedict fights it, hating the pomp, circumstance, the airs, and lack of care for those in the care of the family aristocracy who are in dire need of help, support, and better lives.
As Vivian interacts with Lord Benedict, their past interactions color her impressions of him, but gradually change as she gets to know him through her younger cousin and family.
The background of the showcase of her invention, the crime against Lord Benedict's friend, it all comes together in a clever way to final let them see who they both really are. Lovely sweet romance, cleverly drawn side characters, and the setting at the Exposition, trying to trap the criminals, just so well done. I can't wait to read more in this series with the other members of the society.
I received an ARC from the author via Net Galley in exchange for a fair and honest review. My opinions are my own.

[Emily Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Vivian. She is such a delight. She has a brain and isn’t afraid to use it. Benedict is disillusioned by his title and the title he is to inherit.

The two of them are perfect together.

Vivian and her friends in the Blue Orchid Society are miraculous. They support each other even when they aren’t interested in something that their friend is. This is such a supportive group of women. They are the definition of friend goals. I love this in the setting of Victorian Society as advancements in technology that were happening at the time. This is a perfect setting for Vivian to expand her mind. Her family’s support is essential even if she doesn’t present well amongst the ton.

Jennifer Moore’s writing is beautiful and this story, like Vivian is a complete delight.

I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and this is my honest review.

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely unique and charming read! I have been looking forward to this book since I finished Solving Sophronia and it was definitely worth the wait! Vivian was such a unique character and I love how well Benedict's personality complemented her. Unlike many of the other men of his time, he wasn't intimidated by Vivian's brilliant mind but it was one of the things he admired most about her.

This book has it all - romance, wit, suspense, mystery, and a fantastic cast of characters that I cannot wait to see return in the next book! 4.5 stars for this impossible-to-put-down book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the idea of a female protagonist who is scientifically and mechanically minded and supported by her family in her endeavors in a time when that was not particularly common. Vivian's relationship with and caution around Benedict was well depicted and understandable and I was on my way to giving this a four star review until the rather bizarre murder mystery plot inserted itself into the story. There was plenty of material in the original plot and as this section was not particularly believable it really detracted from the story as a whole, still all's well that ends well.

[Tori (Book Chick) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennifer Moore has a way with words and descriptions. I feel like I really know her characters because she brings them to life.
A few years ago my daughter and I read a book all about women in science. If Vivian wasn’t a fictional character, I am positive she would have been in the book we read. She was so intriguing and I loved the way her mind worked.
Lord Benedict was different from his peers and I loved that. He understood duty, but his unique perspective was refreshing.
Past mistakes to make amends for, science, romance, mystery... The Blue Orchid series has been fabulous so far and I cannot wait to read more.

[Jessica Bybee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story. Vivian is passionate about science, something that even now is frowned upon for women. I loved that she stayed true to herself the entire story and didn't change to find love. Someone loved her for who she was, quirks and all.

Benedict is charming and the ying to Vivian's yang. His friendship and love for Zhang Wei is a great aspect of the story, as is Benedict's longing to return to China.

My favorite part of the story, though, has to be the Blue Orchid Society members. I LOVED how they support each other and help each other achieve their dreams. Such a highlight in this story! There need to be more stories that show women supporting women to that depth and level!

[The Swoony Awards]

Eligible for a 2021 Swoony Award, to nominate/vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Solving Sophronia, the first book in The Blue Orchid Society, and this one, Inventing Vivian did not let me down. Vivian is a very different young woman. She has a scientific mind that's always trying to figure out how things work or how she can improve their function. She's more intelligent than many of the men, so she has a hard time conversing with them on the usual topics that were "suitable for ladies" to discuss--fashion, the weather, who attended the various balls and parties, etc.

Lord Benedict isn't your usual lord, as he's spent several years in China learning yoga and the Chinese way of life. He and Vivian have a rocky past--when they were both teenagers he kept her from joining a scientific group, and she still remembers the pain from being denied entry. Now that he's back in England to run his estate they're once again neighbors and will have to find a way to get along.

I love the Victorian era--there are trains and gas lights, women had a little more freedom and I LOVE the fashions. I liked seeing how Vivian's mind worked, she would've been fascinating to have as a friend. Speaking of friends, I love how all the women in the Blue Orchid Society support each other. When Vivian thought all was lost with her display in the Great Exhibition, she found that her dear friends had filled in for her to the best of their abilities, and saved the day. I love those kind of friendships and treasure them in my life. These women don't put on airs--what you see is what you get, which was not usually the case in Society.

I liked how Benedict came up with a way to prove to Vivian he was sorry for his teenage folly that had caused her pain, and I LOVED the letters they shared. I liked how Benedict's years in China changed him, and thus helped him run his factories. He was different than most of the men who ran factories in that he cared about his workers. Most owners thought their workers were easily replaceable if they were sick or injured. No wonder Vivian developed feelings for him as he showed this gentle, caring side. This is another wonderful read by Jennifer Moore, who's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to read about the other women in the Blue Orchid Society.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Covenant Communications, but also bought a paperback for my personal library. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love everything about this book! The way the author, Jennifer Moore, wrote her characters, her plot, and the added mystery. Everything combines to make this book amazing.

Vivian is such a great character! You don’t often see young ladies of the Victorian period in a questionable shop. But Vivian goes there, and she makes the owner her friend. I loved her inventor side. She had so many fun inventions in her home. And she worked to be sure she was the best inventor she could be. She must have done a good job because she secured a spot in a special exposition. Which she put in jeopardy to help a friend. I love Vivian.

Then there’s Benedict. He’s a kind man. Recently returned to England from China, and longing for the culture and food of China. I loved how he brought his friend back with him. And how he fought for better working conditions and treatment of all kinds of people. Benedict is good people. It was interesting how these two had a history that wasn’t the best. But ended up having to put it aside to work towards a common goal. I loved that!

This book is fantastic! I think you’d be wise to read Solving Sophronia before this one. There are certain pieces of the puzzle that will make more sense that way.

I was sent a copy of this book as a gift by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Joy Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the book that drew me to the series. Vivian, as a woman in STEM, was a brilliant heroine. And to have a hero who loves her brilliant mind in a time when most men looked down on it, well… it always makes my heart happy.

[Leslie Books and Socks Rock · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a while to finish this audiobook but it had nothing to do with the plot. This story has great flow and characters.
🔬
Vivian is a gifted inventor in mathematics and science. Due to the Victorian era, a lot of prejudices against women prevented her from pushing herself to higher thinking but that didn’t mean she stopped. Thinking about the song Ariel sings about her gadgets and gizmos (fitting for Vivian) but it never occurred to me that Ariel was a feminist either. 🤔 pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable and that women can do anything.
🔬
Back to the book - Benedict was a dashing hero. He had wronged Vivian when they were younger - they’re neighbors to be exact - but his time away matured him and now that he’s returned home he’s working to improve the living situation for many people. Even Vivian’s.
🔬
It has a Daddy Longlegs story line and you couldn’t help but cheer for Vivian - with the help of her friends from book 1. I didn’t follow all the science lingo which there was a bit but seeing as it was fitting for the character and scenarios it worked. You can tell that the author did a lot of research to understand mechanisms.
🔬
Can’t wait for the next book in this series!

[Chesney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the Blue Orchid series! Inventing Vivian has all the charm and character development you expect from Jennifer Moore. I instantly loved Benedict and Vivian.
Her books are always a must on my bookshelf!
4.5 stars

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Blue Orchid series is quickly becoming a favorite. I love how different and special each of the ladies are. Vivian is no exception. Her love of science is her drive and I loved her passion and even her stubbornness. However, Lord Benedict stole the show for me. He was wonderful and kind and a true hero. I very much enjoyed the Chinese elements in the story. Jennifer Moore does a fantastic job of telling a lovely, captivating story, all while giving you extras that keep the pages turning.

[A.L. Sowards]

Isn’t this cover beautiful? (I also love the cover for the first book in the series, Solving Sophronia.) The inside is just as sweet. Primarily, it’s a historical romance, but (mild spoiler) the second half also includes a bit of a murder mystery.

Vivian has a brilliant mind and a socially awkward tongue. Socially awkward might not be the best term, but she’s more outspoken than most women of her time, and she’s obsessed with science, which most Victorian-era men find intimidating or simply improper, so things like dances at balls usually turn awkward quite quickly. One of Vivian’s greatest wishes is to enter one of her inventions in the International Exhibition of Industry and Science. But in order to do that, she must have sponsors from the academic world and the nobility, and who would sponsor a woman?

Enter Lord Benedict. When they were children, he got Vivian kicked out of a youth invention club for being a girl (Lord Benedict’s father held the purse strings to the group, so his wish was law). After spending several years in China only to be called back when his older brother dies, Benedict is a changed man. Neither he nor his parents have much confidence his ability to properly carry on the family duties, and it’s clear Vivian still holds a grudge. But maybe he can make it up to her by becoming one of her sponsors. Anonymously, of course, because she might not accept him if she knew.

This was an enjoyable read to pick up at the end of a busy day when I wanted to relax with a good book. I enjoyed the goodness of the characters, the portrayal of strength through female friendship, the fabulous first chapter in which Vivian’s young cousin makes a mess of Lord Benedict’s fountain with one of Vivian’s inventions, and of course the subplot involving a murder mystery. Fans of the genre should definitely check it out. As a bonus, it’s clean enough to hand to my 11-year-olds.

[Kimberly Sims · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! I found the characters and the plot super unique and it was so refreshing! As a girl who loves science I connected with Vivian right from the get go and really enjoyed reading about a young girl with a scientific mind! I also loved that the hero, Benedict, not only studied in China but brought the culture home with him and implemented it into his lifestyle! The Chinese aspect of this story was so fun! I’m only giving the story four stars because I found the romance a bit lacking. The plot focused more on Vivian and Benedict’s efforts to have a positive impact on the world in their own way and although their friendship progressed very nicely it kind of felt like they were friends and admired each other and then all of a sudden they were in love and engaged. I wish there was more courting that happened along the way. Despite being less romantic than I anticipated I still LOVED the characters and found the plot exciting and can’t wait to read the rest of The Blue Orchid Society series!

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd reading. Still love it. Sweet and insightful.

________
I love reading a book with a strong female main character! I love this series because the author specifically has chosen a group of women friends who build each other up and help each other grow.
Vivian has the brain of an engineer in a time when women were shunned from the sciences. Lord Benedict becomes her secret sponsee so she can enter her invention at the fair.
They exchange letters and a friendship builds into a romance via a Daddy-Long Legs type of story.
This book was delightful and sweet. ❤️

________

“Matter can change form, but it cannot be created or destroyed. Just like your friendship. It may look different, but it is still there.”

[the girl who reads a lot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love this series so far! I think you could read them in any order, but I feel like it’s best to read Sophronia’s story first. I love how smart Vivian is, and how her father encourages her. I love what we get to see in their relationship. And her inventions sound so cool! I kept picturing them as a little steampunk combined with Doc Brown’s house in Back to the Future. 🤣 I love that there is a little mystery in this book, too. It’s not the main plot, and it doesn’t even show up until towards the end, but I always appreciate a mystery. 😊 I really like Lord Benedict, especially the man he is trying to become.

Also, can we talk about this cover? So pretty!

I can’t wait to read about the other ladies in The Blue Orchid Society!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved how smart Vivian was but because of her passed experiences she was so insecure and her friends believe in her and build her up. I love that Lord Benedict had been living in China for years and was so different from your typical Victorian hero. My only complaint is that I wish Vivian and Benedict had more time together in the novel. I hate starting these types of series before the last novel is out! Now I can’t wait for Hazels story…I am assuming Hazels is next at least.

[Kaitlin Lanham (Read with Kaitlin) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book by Jennifer Moore is such a delight! I love that this is in Victorian Era London, as it gives things a nice change of pace from Regency books. The facts Vivian has stored in her head coupled with Lord Benedict and his changes and new insights after coming home from China are so wonderful to see come together. This is book 2 in the Blue Orchid Society series and is a wonderful way to continue this series. Highly recommend.

Synopsis:
Vivian Kirby is not what you would call a normal lady of high society in London. She does not claim to have grace or poise, and when it comes to conversation when dancing, she cannot seem to help herself but ramble on about some sort of chemical composition that men often find off putting. Her brilliant mind is far beyond the Victorian Era confines put upon women. To be seen, but not heard- not an equal in any way. She befriends other young women in high society that embrace one another's differences and quirks and they form The Blue Orchid Society. They each make goals and decide to report back to one another as they help each other make those dreams and goals come to pass. Vivian's dream? To enter her invention for display in the International Exhibition of Industry and Science. But she finds this dream harder to fulfill as she struggles to find a member of the peerage to sponsor her.

Lord Benedict has returned to town after a transforming stay in China. His views on life, society, and people of all walks of life have been altered in such a way that when he runs into Vivian he sees that his past actions toward her need to be made right. He is determined to make amends and when the chance to help fulfill her dream of presenting at the International Exhibition of Industry and Science comes up, he jumps on the opportunity. Knowing she would reject his sponsorship, he does so anonymously. As they correspond back and forth, they form a friendship that he wants to extend into something more.

A murder unexpectedly draws them into working together to reveal the truth. As Vivian gets reacquainted with Lord Benedict after the many passing years, she starts to fear she may be falling in love with two men, not realizing they are one in the same.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Jennifer Moore has written a sweet and charming Victorian romance that readers will fall in love with. The story focuses on a female inventor, Vivian Kirby, and her struggle to enter inventions in male dominant expositions. But with the help of her friends and her sponsors she enters. And along the way, she becomes acquainted with Lord Benedict who has recently returned from an adventure in China due to his brother’s death and is now the heir to his estate. This story delightfully entwines Vivian and Lord Benedict’s lives and they get a second chance at friendship and possibly love. This story has a strong female character, with wonderful friends and family that surround her. And readers will adore the unexpected romance, too. This is a story that readers will absolutely be enchanted with.

Genre: Victorian, Romance
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: June 7, 2021
Number of pages: 224

Other books in the series:
0.5-Emmeline
1-Solving Sophronia

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Rel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inventing Vivian is my first introduction to Jennifer Moore, and what a delightful introduction it was. The premise (intelligent woman destined for spinsterhood as Regency era males avoid a smart woman like the plague), and the characters (hark, there is one Regency male eschewing their bias against brains, plus our heroine has a cohort of equally daring and clever friends) are both warmly familiar, yet Moore puts her own stamp on both trope and protagonists, making for a fun and engaging read.

Benedict has returned from a long stay in China, reformed, sensitive, and hoping for more than the expectations placed on him by his father and the ton. Accompanied by his dear friend and mentor, Zhang Wei, trouble soon follows. Fascinated by Vivian’s clever mind and secretly supports her desire to exhibit her latest invention.

The story enables Moore to explore the attitudes of the era towards women, Chinese immigrants, child labour, and the abhorrent working conditions in manufacturing. The ease with which these challenges are resolved, while improbable for the time, provides a happily ever after tale sure to satisfy readers who devour sweet Regency romances. Inventing Vivian has piqued my interest in the Blue Orchid Society ladies and their adventures!

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re in search of a book with some fun twists, look no further. Inventing Vivian by Jennifer Moore is a Victorian read with a whip-smart heroine whose inventions are better than those of many of the men in her time and a reluctant heir who has left his adventures in China to return home and assume his role after his brother’s death.

But there is so much more that makes this book such a wonderful read. There are the friendships between the women of the Blue Orchid Society. They not only encourage each other to reach for their dreams, they support each other to make them happen. There’s mystery and suspense in the second half of the book all while Vivian and Lord Benedict get to know each other through some wonderful letters.

In Inventing Vivian, Moore delivers relatable characters and an engaging story you don’t want to miss.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a leading lady that doesn’t fit a cookie-cutter mold for the time period the story takes place in. That’s the case with Vivian Kirby in Inventing Vivian. She certainly doesn’t fit into the expected and accepted place for a woman in the Victorian Era. Vivian is intelligent, inventive, and incredibly interesting. Watching her growth throughout the story is enjoyable.

Benedict is just as interesting. He’s easy to connect with and the growing chemistry he shares with Vivian is exciting to watch. His caring, vulnerable heart makes him a wonderful and memorable hero.

This is an emotion-filled tale with remarkable characters and interesting elements of science and society. I love how friendship, kinship, and romance is portrayed in this story and era, and though the romance isn’t the most prevalent facet of the story, it’s sweet and gratifying.

Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennifer Moore is one of my favorite authors and I am loving this series! Inventing Vivian is the second book in The Blue Orchid Society series, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. I love the premise behind the books; women considered blue stockings forming their own society to support each other in fulfilling their dreams. Vivian is one of these talented women who is brilliant at chemistry and inventing but lacks the social graces. Our first introduction to Vivian’s idea of polite conversation had me laughing. When not intimidating suitors, she longs to present one of her inventions at the Great Exhibition.

Returning from an extended stay in China, Lord Benedict’s been transformed from a carefree, thoughtless youth to a balanced, moderate, caring man. He’s come back after a family tragedy to run his father’s factories and is under an exorbitant amount of pressure to conform to his family’s expectations. When he meets Vivian again, he’s intrigued by his old neighbor. His thoughtless actions in his youth humiliated her and now he’s determined to make amends by becoming her secret benefactor.

Through a series of letters to her mysterious benefactor, Vivian’s innermost thoughts and feelings are shared. She also develops a deep friendship with Lord Benedict who seems to appreciate her inventive mind. What happens when she discovers they are one and the same? When Lord Benedict’s best friend Mister Li is implicated in a crime, Vivian and Lord Benedict must work together to solve the mystery.

I loved the introduction to Chinese and English culture in the Victorian Age. While there was so much enlightenment, there were still prejudices that needed to be overcome and I enjoyed the way the author shares these struggles in her writing. I loved Vivian’s inventions and the way her Blue Orchid society members rallied to save the day for her. The slow burn romance between Benedict and Vivian was so enjoyable. One of my favorite parts was when they were trapped in the warehouse.

I listened to the audiobook version on Deseret Bookshelf and absolutely loved it! Noah Wall is a brilliant narrator who captures the personality of each character. I love the way she distinguishes between the male and female characters. Definitely worth listening to.

Highly recommend! This series is a favorite and each book can be easily read as a standalone. Looking forward to the next book in the series!