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The Secret Scientists of London #2
A Perfect Equation
11 hours, 22 minutes
How do you solve the Perfect Equation? Add one sharp-tongued mathematician to an aloof, handsome nobleman. Divide by conflicting loyalties and multiply by a daring group of women hell-bent on conducting their scientific experiments. The solution is a romance that will break every rule.
Six years ago, Miss Letitia Fenley made a mistake, and she’s lived with the consequences ever since. Readying herself to compete for the prestigious Rosewood Prize for Mathematics, she is suddenly asked to take on another responsibility—managing Athena’s Retreat, a secret haven for England’s women scientists. Having spent the last six years on her own, Letty doesn’t want the offers of friendship from other club members and certainly doesn’t need any help from the insufferably attractive Lord Greycliff.
Lord William Hughes, the Viscount Greycliff cannot afford to make any mistakes. His lifelong dream of becoming the director of a powerful clandestine agency is within his grasp. Tasked with helping Letty safeguard Athena’s Retreat, Grey is positive that he can control the antics of the various scientists as well as manage the tiny mathematician—despite their historic animosity and simmering tension.
As Grey and Letty are forced to work together, their mutual dislike turns to admiration and eventually to something... magnetic. When faced with the possibility that Athena’s Retreat will close forever, they must make a choice. Will Grey turn down a chance to change history, or can Letty get to the root of the problem and prove that love is the ultimate answer?
How do you solve the Perfect Equation? Add one sharp-tongued mathematician to an aloof, handsome nobleman. Divide by conflicting loyalties and multiply by a daring group of women hell-bent on conducting their scientific experiments. The solution is a romance that will break every rule.
Six years ago, Miss Letitia Fenley made a mistake, and she’s lived with the consequences ever since. Readying herself to compete for the prestigious Rosewood Prize for Mathematics, she is suddenly asked to take on another responsibility—managing Athena’s Retreat, a secret haven for England’s women scientists. Having spent the last six years on her own, Letty doesn’t want the offers of friendship from other club members and certainly doesn’t need any help from the insufferably attractive Lord Greycliff.
Lord William Hughes, the Viscount Greycliff cannot afford to make any mistakes. His lifelong dream of becoming the director of a powerful clandestine agency is within his grasp. Tasked with helping Letty safeguard Athena’s Retreat, Grey is positive that he can control the antics of the various scientists as well as manage the tiny mathematician—despite their historic animosity and simmering tension.
As Grey and Letty are forced to work together, their mutual dislike turns to admiration and eventually to something... magnetic. When faced with the possibility that Athena’s Retreat will close forever, they must make a choice. Will Grey turn down a chance to change history, or can Letty get to the root of the problem and prove that love is the ultimate answer?
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First published February 15, 2022
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About the author
Elizabeth Everett
6 books793 followersElizabeth Everett is a USA Today Bestselling author of historical romance and lives in upstate New York. Her work is inspired by her admiration for rule breakers and belief in the power of love to change the world.
Head over to Elizabeth's website and subscribe to The Rule Breaker's Report for the latest news, exclusive excerpts from Elizabeth's books, giveaways, and terrible jokes.
Head over to Elizabeth's website and subscribe to The Rule Breaker's Report for the latest news, exclusive excerpts from Elizabeth's books, giveaways, and terrible jokes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 419 reviews
April 2, 2022
Perfect choice for the fans of A league of extraordinary women series! Elizabeth Everett guaranteed her place as my favorite powerful women empowerment historical fiction writers alongside Evie Dunmore !
This brilliant woman achieved the biggest challenge my high school never had a chance: she made me love maths! Huge congrats the powerful effects of her smart writing skills!
Of course I honestly love to promote any books written about independent, intelligent, intellectual women who plan to run the world ( let’s add some Queen B vibes to this review)
Enemies to lovers troupe with quick witted banters, high chemistry and high level sexual tension between Letty and Grey were the strengths of the story that pick your interest intact. You want to know about their past, why they get separated, what went so wrong about their relationship.
The political climate and social issues were also perfectly thrown into the equation with diversity representation by supporting characters.
Women in stem theme is always a big winner for me!
Overall: as one of the biggest fans of romance combined with historical fiction, this book gives everything I need and I’m looking forward to read the sequels!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
This brilliant woman achieved the biggest challenge my high school never had a chance: she made me love maths! Huge congrats the powerful effects of her smart writing skills!
Of course I honestly love to promote any books written about independent, intelligent, intellectual women who plan to run the world ( let’s add some Queen B vibes to this review)
Enemies to lovers troupe with quick witted banters, high chemistry and high level sexual tension between Letty and Grey were the strengths of the story that pick your interest intact. You want to know about their past, why they get separated, what went so wrong about their relationship.
The political climate and social issues were also perfectly thrown into the equation with diversity representation by supporting characters.
Women in stem theme is always a big winner for me!
Overall: as one of the biggest fans of romance combined with historical fiction, this book gives everything I need and I’m looking forward to read the sequels!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
February 19, 2022
✨No wonder he was craving cake.✨
No, you don’t understand. I’m obsessed. I bookmarked so many quotes!!! I can’t share them right now but just know the romance is SO SWOONY. Grey had to work hard to get back in Letty’s good graces and I personally love a man who knows how to get in his knees… and grovel. Naturally, this is a gorgeous gorgeous hot hot they never actually make it to a bed in the book book. It made me so happy!!! It makes me so happy to see the cover!!!
Grey had HUGE Jimmy Stewart energy when he was being all cute and excited and curious about science things! Seriously, the only thing I could think about was Jimmy boppin around a screen. There’s just something about Grey that is just so pure and charming. Because yes, the man’s hot as shit, but he’s also so sheltered because he thinks he has to be. Now that I think about it, that something is simply how gone he is for Letty. The man didn’t stand a chance.
The way he read her romance novel? And wanted to talk to her about it? And the way he always smelled vanilla when Letty was around? And then how he was constantly craving cake throughout the book and being very confused about it because he hadn’t had a piece of cake in fifteen years? And how he planned to ask for her forgiveness and convinced Grantham to help? I didn’t stand a chance.
He was never hesitant to be honest with her about how much he wanted her. About what he thought about her and wanted to do to her and what she did to him. He was just so refreshing! And pure! His reaction to Grantham not judging him for his seizures was so sweet. I melt just thinking about how before Letty he had such a simple and healthy diet, and how quickly that changed into craving cake, sugar and vanilla, and her. He’s like the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream that has an ooey gooey chocolatey core but is surrounded by chilly ice.
Letty and Grey were just such a good match. A perfect equation if you will? Letty is great at math and Grey is great at words. He thoroughly understands the meaning of “pleasure.” I loved when he kept referencing how short she was and just how different they were. Height difference really does it for me. He rested his chin on her head like come ON. Also when he growls naughty words in the throes of passion? !!!!! They both didn’t want to lose control which was great because they both lost control.
This book was also very very sexy. Book one banged and book two definitely bangs but not in a bed. I truly don’t think they banged in a bed once. Walls, desk, carriage, but no bed. And I very much did not mind at all. To hell with beds! Their chemistry was so hot and the way they learned each other was intoxicating. School is fun! I love my studies!
I know I just wrote so much about this couple but seriously, they were both so complex and gained so much throughout the story. There were so many moments that were so heartwarmingly simple. It’s quite hard to describe adequately, but Elizabeth has such a dynamic way of writing their interactions and the little things that make up loving someone and realizing that love is returned. It was simply so easy to love this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.75/5
*I was sent this book by the author and publisher but we all know my opinions are honest and my own.*
No, you don’t understand. I’m obsessed. I bookmarked so many quotes!!! I can’t share them right now but just know the romance is SO SWOONY. Grey had to work hard to get back in Letty’s good graces and I personally love a man who knows how to get in his knees… and grovel. Naturally, this is a gorgeous gorgeous hot hot they never actually make it to a bed in the book book. It made me so happy!!! It makes me so happy to see the cover!!!
Grey had HUGE Jimmy Stewart energy when he was being all cute and excited and curious about science things! Seriously, the only thing I could think about was Jimmy boppin around a screen. There’s just something about Grey that is just so pure and charming. Because yes, the man’s hot as shit, but he’s also so sheltered because he thinks he has to be. Now that I think about it, that something is simply how gone he is for Letty. The man didn’t stand a chance.
The way he read her romance novel? And wanted to talk to her about it? And the way he always smelled vanilla when Letty was around? And then how he was constantly craving cake throughout the book and being very confused about it because he hadn’t had a piece of cake in fifteen years? And how he planned to ask for her forgiveness and convinced Grantham to help? I didn’t stand a chance.
He was never hesitant to be honest with her about how much he wanted her. About what he thought about her and wanted to do to her and what she did to him. He was just so refreshing! And pure! His reaction to Grantham not judging him for his seizures was so sweet. I melt just thinking about how before Letty he had such a simple and healthy diet, and how quickly that changed into craving cake, sugar and vanilla, and her. He’s like the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream that has an ooey gooey chocolatey core but is surrounded by chilly ice.
Letty and Grey were just such a good match. A perfect equation if you will? Letty is great at math and Grey is great at words. He thoroughly understands the meaning of “pleasure.” I loved when he kept referencing how short she was and just how different they were. Height difference really does it for me. He rested his chin on her head like come ON. Also when he growls naughty words in the throes of passion? !!!!! They both didn’t want to lose control which was great because they both lost control.
This book was also very very sexy. Book one banged and book two definitely bangs but not in a bed. I truly don’t think they banged in a bed once. Walls, desk, carriage, but no bed. And I very much did not mind at all. To hell with beds! Their chemistry was so hot and the way they learned each other was intoxicating. School is fun! I love my studies!
I know I just wrote so much about this couple but seriously, they were both so complex and gained so much throughout the story. There were so many moments that were so heartwarmingly simple. It’s quite hard to describe adequately, but Elizabeth has such a dynamic way of writing their interactions and the little things that make up loving someone and realizing that love is returned. It was simply so easy to love this book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.75/5
*I was sent this book by the author and publisher but we all know my opinions are honest and my own.*
August 17, 2021
SEVENTY MILLION STARS OUT OF FIVE!!! PLS READ!!! IT'S SOOO GOOOD!
As a woman in STEM, the Secret Scientists of London is currently my favorite series! I love absolutely everything about it—the layered friendships between these amazing women scientists, the steminist themes, the swoon-worthy love interests—even the explosions (physical and metaphorical). I fell for Elizabeth Everett’s writing while reading A Lady’s Formula For Love, but A Perfect Equation absolutely floored me. Not only was it a delight to meet again with a beloved cast of characters, but the story blew me away: the romantic tension between Letty and Grey, the sensual, lyrical descriptions of math… this book is an absolute winner. Smart is the new sexy, and Elizabeth Everett does both better than anyone else! I cannot wait for the third installment in this amazing series.
Disclosure: I share a publisher with Elizabeth Everett and I received a free ARC!
As a woman in STEM, the Secret Scientists of London is currently my favorite series! I love absolutely everything about it—the layered friendships between these amazing women scientists, the steminist themes, the swoon-worthy love interests—even the explosions (physical and metaphorical). I fell for Elizabeth Everett’s writing while reading A Lady’s Formula For Love, but A Perfect Equation absolutely floored me. Not only was it a delight to meet again with a beloved cast of characters, but the story blew me away: the romantic tension between Letty and Grey, the sensual, lyrical descriptions of math… this book is an absolute winner. Smart is the new sexy, and Elizabeth Everett does both better than anyone else! I cannot wait for the third installment in this amazing series.
Disclosure: I share a publisher with Elizabeth Everett and I received a free ARC!
February 23, 2022
Thank you to the author & Berkley for this early reading copy. While the author & I are friends & share publishers, this in no way influenced my undying love for this book. I *adored* it, somehow even more than the first one, which I really didn't think was possible.
After reading & loving A LADY'S FORMULA FOR LOVE, the first in The Secret Scientists of London series, I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next installment. Letty & Grey's romance far exceeded my already high expectations, & I truly fell in love. Their dislike-to-love, friction-filled chemistry sparked with sensual tension; their vulnerabilities & hidden wounds were sympathetic & believable; & their growth arcs as they lowered their guards & finally let each other in were so satisfying.
Returning to Athena's Retreat, I delighted in Letty & Grey going head to head as the secondary characters filled their days with benign explosions, rogue animals, & a hilarious barrage of comedic mishaps. The plot was excellently paced & perfectly balanced steam, emotions, & humor.
One of the things I love best about Elizabeth's writing is how deeply she develops her characters as individuals while also developing their romance. Even though her romances have strong plots propelling the narrative, the characters' backstories, arcs, & motivations fuel the narrative powerfully, too. I finished this book on a happy sigh, missing Letty & Grey already. I cannot believe I was lucky enough to early read this book, & I cannot wait for others to fall in love with it as I have.
After reading & loving A LADY'S FORMULA FOR LOVE, the first in The Secret Scientists of London series, I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next installment. Letty & Grey's romance far exceeded my already high expectations, & I truly fell in love. Their dislike-to-love, friction-filled chemistry sparked with sensual tension; their vulnerabilities & hidden wounds were sympathetic & believable; & their growth arcs as they lowered their guards & finally let each other in were so satisfying.
Returning to Athena's Retreat, I delighted in Letty & Grey going head to head as the secondary characters filled their days with benign explosions, rogue animals, & a hilarious barrage of comedic mishaps. The plot was excellently paced & perfectly balanced steam, emotions, & humor.
One of the things I love best about Elizabeth's writing is how deeply she develops her characters as individuals while also developing their romance. Even though her romances have strong plots propelling the narrative, the characters' backstories, arcs, & motivations fuel the narrative powerfully, too. I finished this book on a happy sigh, missing Letty & Grey already. I cannot believe I was lucky enough to early read this book, & I cannot wait for others to fall in love with it as I have.
February 15, 2022
What happens when a mathematician who loves romance novels clashes with a spy who thinks emotions will wreck his life? It all starts when the president of Athena's Retreat - ostensibly a women's social club, but actually a secret suite of laboratories for STEM-minded women - asks Letitia (the mathematician) and Grey (the spy) to take over in her absence. It should come as no surprise that they eventually fall in love - but the fun is in how they get there (of course!).
A Perfect Equation is a book for seasoned romance readers who are looking for something a little bit different. While we have our cameo from the previous book's romantic leads, it's not in the way we're used to. While we get all of the enemies-to-lovers, wall-makeout goodness, there are also more in-depth examinations of the genre. We have so many thoughts on this one it's hard to get them all out. We have Letitia's Defense of the Romance Novel, a feminist examination of Whose Work Is More Important, and a critical examination of the aristocracy (Grey is a viscount, of course). Absolutely recommended as a romance that makes you think.
39-Word Summaries:
Laine: Cousins become eskimo brothers when an uptight aristocrat/spy realizes a standoffish mathematician wasn't the world's greatest seductress at seventeen. Maintaining a safe-space for lady scientists requires dismantling traditional structures and the patriarchy while giving in to carriage sex.
Meg: Do you sometimes get depressed when you read about politics today? Well, so does the heroine of this book. The hero also gets depressed about them before the final page. Luckily these super relatable characters also have hot sex.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy.
A Perfect Equation is a book for seasoned romance readers who are looking for something a little bit different. While we have our cameo from the previous book's romantic leads, it's not in the way we're used to. While we get all of the enemies-to-lovers, wall-makeout goodness, there are also more in-depth examinations of the genre. We have so many thoughts on this one it's hard to get them all out. We have Letitia's Defense of the Romance Novel, a feminist examination of Whose Work Is More Important, and a critical examination of the aristocracy (Grey is a viscount, of course). Absolutely recommended as a romance that makes you think.
39-Word Summaries:
Laine: Cousins become eskimo brothers when an uptight aristocrat/spy realizes a standoffish mathematician wasn't the world's greatest seductress at seventeen. Maintaining a safe-space for lady scientists requires dismantling traditional structures and the patriarchy while giving in to carriage sex.
Meg: Do you sometimes get depressed when you read about politics today? Well, so does the heroine of this book. The hero also gets depressed about them before the final page. Luckily these super relatable characters also have hot sex.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy.
September 19, 2021
This book was explosively good! Elizabeth Everett has once again created a fabulous story about a smart, brave woman and a man who develops the good sense to love her. Letty and Grey were marvellous characters. They both won my heart from the very beginning. Letty's fierceness and Grey's determination (and his wonderfully endearing moments of boyishness!) made for a romance that never faltered in carrying the story to its fulfilling conclusion. I loved their mutual insults and their palpable sexual tension and I loved the way they learned to truly appreciate each other. Woven through this was an unflinching portrayal of the many injustices and barriers women of the era experienced, making for not just a swoony read but a powerful, feminist one too. Everett continues on form, and I can't wait to read the third book in the series.
March 3, 2022
4.5 Stars
Six years ago, the Viscount of Greycliff, Grey, gave Leticia Fenley a judgmental set-down when she was at her lowest and the words sting still. Now they must work together to oversee Athena’s Retreat since Violet and Arthur are leaving the city.
Outwardly, Athena’s Retreat is a social club for ladies to gather and discuss lectures on science, but secretly the women conduct experiments and study science, something highly frowned on at the time. It wasn’t easy for woman to be a scientist in the 19th century when women had few rights. Grey and Letty must put aside their differences to keep the club safe since they’re being targeted by the radical Guardians of Domesticity, who’d like to keep women in their so-called place.
Letty was such a fun character with a fearless drive to stand up for women, especially the women of her club. She was more insecure when it came to standing up for herself, but Grey gave her the courage to hold her head high and shine. Grey had his own insecurities to battle with and I appreciated that neither dismissed the concerns of the other, but rather supported each other to face the issues.
A Perfect Equation was a delightful enemies-to-lovers romance, with clever banter and emotional depth. A cast of quirky and fun secondary characters made many hilarious scenes that had me laughing out loud. Add in an adorable hedgehog and this story was a complete win! I’m eagerly awaiting Grantham and Margaret’s story next!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Six years ago, the Viscount of Greycliff, Grey, gave Leticia Fenley a judgmental set-down when she was at her lowest and the words sting still. Now they must work together to oversee Athena’s Retreat since Violet and Arthur are leaving the city.
Outwardly, Athena’s Retreat is a social club for ladies to gather and discuss lectures on science, but secretly the women conduct experiments and study science, something highly frowned on at the time. It wasn’t easy for woman to be a scientist in the 19th century when women had few rights. Grey and Letty must put aside their differences to keep the club safe since they’re being targeted by the radical Guardians of Domesticity, who’d like to keep women in their so-called place.
Letty was such a fun character with a fearless drive to stand up for women, especially the women of her club. She was more insecure when it came to standing up for herself, but Grey gave her the courage to hold her head high and shine. Grey had his own insecurities to battle with and I appreciated that neither dismissed the concerns of the other, but rather supported each other to face the issues.
A Perfect Equation was a delightful enemies-to-lovers romance, with clever banter and emotional depth. A cast of quirky and fun secondary characters made many hilarious scenes that had me laughing out loud. Add in an adorable hedgehog and this story was a complete win! I’m eagerly awaiting Grantham and Margaret’s story next!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2022
A Perfect Equation by Elizabeth Everett is her second book in The Secret Scientists of London series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. This regency-era, somewhat steamy romance, has a brainy heroine, and baby hedgehogs!
Miss Letitia Fenley (Letty) is a brilliant mathematician that works in her best friend's women’s club for women scientists named Athena’s Retreat. Violet, the owner, and manager of Athena’s Retreat must leave to go to Scotland for a few months and leaves the management of Athena’s Retreat in Letitia’s capable hands. At the same time, Violet’s husband, Arthur Kneland, has also asked his friend, Lord Greycliff (Grey) to watch over the brilliant women of Athena’s Retreat.
Letty and Grey have a history, six years ago, Letty made a huge mistake, and Grey has never forgiven her. But, when they are both tasked to take care of Athena’s Retreat, their coolness towards each other warms as they both discover things about each other that they didn’t know before. They have very different views for the future of Athena’s retreat, and they are in almost constant conflict with each other.
I love a book with a brainy heroine, and this book did not disappoint. I’m often reluctant to read regency-era books because I’m always dismayed at the injustices of that time period. Injustice for women, people of color, between the classes, and the unfairness of life during that time period. However, The Perfect Equation gives me characters that fight back against these injustices, and I was loving it. We saw women scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and just super-intelligent women, supporting each other in the pursuit of science. And that’s another aspect of this book that I loved, these women were all working together and supporting each other, even though they are from different classes, and different cultures, they all helped each other to grow and become better.
I just loved the slow-burn romance between Letty and Grey. They both have a history and some personal issues that make them reject personal relationships. Letty because she believes she’s a fallen woman, and Grey had a history of seizures that he controls by cutting himself off from people. As they work together to keep the women of Athena’s Retreat safe, they learn about each other and begin to admire each other and let go of their pre-conceived notions.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a historical romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Miss Letitia Fenley (Letty) is a brilliant mathematician that works in her best friend's women’s club for women scientists named Athena’s Retreat. Violet, the owner, and manager of Athena’s Retreat must leave to go to Scotland for a few months and leaves the management of Athena’s Retreat in Letitia’s capable hands. At the same time, Violet’s husband, Arthur Kneland, has also asked his friend, Lord Greycliff (Grey) to watch over the brilliant women of Athena’s Retreat.
Letty and Grey have a history, six years ago, Letty made a huge mistake, and Grey has never forgiven her. But, when they are both tasked to take care of Athena’s Retreat, their coolness towards each other warms as they both discover things about each other that they didn’t know before. They have very different views for the future of Athena’s retreat, and they are in almost constant conflict with each other.
I love a book with a brainy heroine, and this book did not disappoint. I’m often reluctant to read regency-era books because I’m always dismayed at the injustices of that time period. Injustice for women, people of color, between the classes, and the unfairness of life during that time period. However, The Perfect Equation gives me characters that fight back against these injustices, and I was loving it. We saw women scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and just super-intelligent women, supporting each other in the pursuit of science. And that’s another aspect of this book that I loved, these women were all working together and supporting each other, even though they are from different classes, and different cultures, they all helped each other to grow and become better.
I just loved the slow-burn romance between Letty and Grey. They both have a history and some personal issues that make them reject personal relationships. Letty because she believes she’s a fallen woman, and Grey had a history of seizures that he controls by cutting himself off from people. As they work together to keep the women of Athena’s Retreat safe, they learn about each other and begin to admire each other and let go of their pre-conceived notions.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a historical romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 15, 2023
I'm so impressed with this author. This has a great set up of a ruined, but determined heroine who is truly a brilliant scientist in a world set up to try and stop her at every turn.
Enter a hero with a gallant heart who believes his wrong opinion of her, until he comes to know her, desire her, and love her.
I find this series to be so thoughtful and delightfully complex. I very much enjoy almost everything about it.
Enter a hero with a gallant heart who believes his wrong opinion of her, until he comes to know her, desire her, and love her.
I find this series to be so thoughtful and delightfully complex. I very much enjoy almost everything about it.
February 9, 2022
The second book in Elizabeth Everett’s The Secret Scientists of London series follows Letitia Fenley and Viscount Greycliff, enemies charged with running a social club for women during the owner’s absence.
Lettie is a brilliant mathematician whose romantic ideals led to her ruination. Now, years later, Lettie is charged with running Athena’s Retreat, a social club and haven for female mathematicians and scientists, alongside Viscount Greycliff, the unforgiving cousin of the man who tarnished her reputation. Lettie and Grey have a turbulent past, especially considering Grey contributed to her scandal, but when a group of men targets Athena’s Retreat, Lettie and the other women’s lives are at risk, and Lettie and Grey must work together before it’s too late.
Lettie and Grey are both amazing characters, and I appreciate how deeply developed both are. Strong, intelligent, and capable, Lettie’s indiscretion with Grey’s cousin has very much defined her, and she has closed herself off to the potential of love. She has even distanced herself from friends so as not to sully them by association. Letty holds herself at arm’s length and lets few people in. Grey has walls up too. He suffered from seizures as a child and constantly fears their return. He has such a structured life and has built a wall around his feelings as preventative measures, but he isn’t living a full life. Both have really interesting stories, and their individual stories are as compelling as their romance.
The love story between Lettie and Grey is fantastic! Their enemies-to-lovers romance is filled with wonderful banter, a ton of sexual tension, and so much heart. These two drive each other to distraction, and they continually challenge each other, which leads to some fabulous, chemistry-laden scenes. I love that this growing relationship breaks all of their walls down. Lettie and Grey learn so much from each other, and what I like the most is how willing they are to learn, grow, and change. And some of their scenes are so funny and fun, which balance out the more serious aspects of the story well. Lettie and Grey have so many challenges put in front of them, and I enjoyed seeing how they deal with their inner conflicts and concerns, as well as all of the other obstacles that stand in their way.
I love the women of Athena’s Retreat. It’s a wonderful society of STEM women, and there are definite found family vibes going on. The author has created so many dynamic and interesting characters, and I’m eager to see them in the next book in the series. The women are all so unique and quirky, and I love that they have a place where they can experiment and work and be with others who understand and support them Several of these women, who are often underestimated, serve as the voices of reason throughout the book, and they really make Grey especially see things differently. And Grey’s reactions to the different experiments and goings-on are priceless. To see the joy and excitement and awe he experiences with these women made me love Grey even more. He sees their worth and how much they have to offer when many other men don’t. He stands in contrast to the men trying to force these women to stop their important work.
The story highlights so many inequities and troubles of the time, including women’s rights, oppression, prejudice, social inequities, double standards, and so much more. I particularly love the messages about the important contributions from women in STEM-related work. There is also a lot of intrigue, which I enjoyed. Grey is one of two potential upcoming leaders in a secret government agency and has to prove his ability to lead. Plus, men are targeting Athena’s Retreat and protesting against women’s rights across the city, which leads to many dangerous and potentially deadly situations.
I think A Perfect Equation is an excellent addition to the series. It’s smart and fun, and the romance is swoon-tastic!! I adored the characters and felt the messages and themes are powerful and poignant. It’s the type of story that entertains while it makes you think, which makes for a really compelling and interesting read. Special thanks to Berkley Books for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
Lettie is a brilliant mathematician whose romantic ideals led to her ruination. Now, years later, Lettie is charged with running Athena’s Retreat, a social club and haven for female mathematicians and scientists, alongside Viscount Greycliff, the unforgiving cousin of the man who tarnished her reputation. Lettie and Grey have a turbulent past, especially considering Grey contributed to her scandal, but when a group of men targets Athena’s Retreat, Lettie and the other women’s lives are at risk, and Lettie and Grey must work together before it’s too late.
Lettie and Grey are both amazing characters, and I appreciate how deeply developed both are. Strong, intelligent, and capable, Lettie’s indiscretion with Grey’s cousin has very much defined her, and she has closed herself off to the potential of love. She has even distanced herself from friends so as not to sully them by association. Letty holds herself at arm’s length and lets few people in. Grey has walls up too. He suffered from seizures as a child and constantly fears their return. He has such a structured life and has built a wall around his feelings as preventative measures, but he isn’t living a full life. Both have really interesting stories, and their individual stories are as compelling as their romance.
The love story between Lettie and Grey is fantastic! Their enemies-to-lovers romance is filled with wonderful banter, a ton of sexual tension, and so much heart. These two drive each other to distraction, and they continually challenge each other, which leads to some fabulous, chemistry-laden scenes. I love that this growing relationship breaks all of their walls down. Lettie and Grey learn so much from each other, and what I like the most is how willing they are to learn, grow, and change. And some of their scenes are so funny and fun, which balance out the more serious aspects of the story well. Lettie and Grey have so many challenges put in front of them, and I enjoyed seeing how they deal with their inner conflicts and concerns, as well as all of the other obstacles that stand in their way.
I love the women of Athena’s Retreat. It’s a wonderful society of STEM women, and there are definite found family vibes going on. The author has created so many dynamic and interesting characters, and I’m eager to see them in the next book in the series. The women are all so unique and quirky, and I love that they have a place where they can experiment and work and be with others who understand and support them Several of these women, who are often underestimated, serve as the voices of reason throughout the book, and they really make Grey especially see things differently. And Grey’s reactions to the different experiments and goings-on are priceless. To see the joy and excitement and awe he experiences with these women made me love Grey even more. He sees their worth and how much they have to offer when many other men don’t. He stands in contrast to the men trying to force these women to stop their important work.
The story highlights so many inequities and troubles of the time, including women’s rights, oppression, prejudice, social inequities, double standards, and so much more. I particularly love the messages about the important contributions from women in STEM-related work. There is also a lot of intrigue, which I enjoyed. Grey is one of two potential upcoming leaders in a secret government agency and has to prove his ability to lead. Plus, men are targeting Athena’s Retreat and protesting against women’s rights across the city, which leads to many dangerous and potentially deadly situations.
I think A Perfect Equation is an excellent addition to the series. It’s smart and fun, and the romance is swoon-tastic!! I adored the characters and felt the messages and themes are powerful and poignant. It’s the type of story that entertains while it makes you think, which makes for a really compelling and interesting read. Special thanks to Berkley Books for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
October 27, 2021
Letty Fenley is the most at home at Athena's Retreat, where women scientists such as herself are free to complete their experiments without any outside interference. When Letty's best friend and owner of Athena's Retreat, Violet asks Letty to manage Athena's Retreat, Letty reluctantly agrees. What she doesn't count on is having to manage the retreat alongside Viscount Greycliff. Letty and Grey have had a rocky past and Letty wants nothing to do with him and the feeling is mutual. How will these two keep the retreat open when they can barely be civil with one another?
Oh, how I adored Letty and Grey in A Perfect Equation. These two had so much chemistry. I loved their banter and immediately needed to know what history they shared that made them dislike each other so much. And while I loved their enemies-to-lovers slow progression, I also loved how fierce and protective they were of one another (swoon).
I loved delving into both Grey and Letty's past. These two individuals had been through so much and both of them had such a hard time letting their guard down. There were so many times when I just wanted to scream at them, but at the same time I knew exactly where they were coming from.
A Perfect Equation had the perfect amount of humor, romance, angst and suspense! I was hooked from the beginning and loved the storytelling. I can't wait for the next book in The Secret Scientists of London Series. Overall I would give A Perfect Equation 4.5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
Oh, how I adored Letty and Grey in A Perfect Equation. These two had so much chemistry. I loved their banter and immediately needed to know what history they shared that made them dislike each other so much. And while I loved their enemies-to-lovers slow progression, I also loved how fierce and protective they were of one another (swoon).
I loved delving into both Grey and Letty's past. These two individuals had been through so much and both of them had such a hard time letting their guard down. There were so many times when I just wanted to scream at them, but at the same time I knew exactly where they were coming from.
A Perfect Equation had the perfect amount of humor, romance, angst and suspense! I was hooked from the beginning and loved the storytelling. I can't wait for the next book in The Secret Scientists of London Series. Overall I would give A Perfect Equation 4.5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
January 15, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley and the poor publishing marketer who sent me this ARC, but an unpopular opinion is incoming, and I probably should apologize to this book for using it as a chaser to the Love Hypothesis, which I absolutely loved. Alas, not all STEM-centered romances are equal, and I can't recommend this one after giving a third of it a try.
The publisher sent me an invitation for this ARC, which had me assuming it'd be fine to read without reading its precursor in the series. But there were enough references within the first tenth of the book to make me feel like I was missing something, and that was only the start of my issues.
There was so much reference to fire and explosions in the first fifteen percent of the book that it felt like an episode of Rugrats or something about toddlers, not a society of women scientists. There were numerous references to Letty's height and diminutive size and it got very old very quickly to this also very-short reader. The patronizing narration in both these regards was frankly off-putting.
And the love interest and main romance, hoo boy. Greycliff is a caveman wearing a waistcoat and reciting Victorian dialogue, and not in the fun way. It never felt like he took Letty seriously; at one point he wanted to kiss her when she pouted rather than address why the valid reason she was mad. When she leveled factual accusations at him of how he wronged her in the past, he lured her into a makeout session rather than explain himself. It felt very dub-con and not sexy as he commanded her to open her mouth and...YEAH.
The representation I saw in as far as I got felt like tokenism, especially given the un-woke way the main hetero romance was portrayed. I did not have faith any queer characters would be done justice, but kudos for sticking them in there, I guess, as well as labor movement ideals.
I'm disappointed in how a book/series whose premise hinges upon feminism and romance could manage to botch both things.
The publisher sent me an invitation for this ARC, which had me assuming it'd be fine to read without reading its precursor in the series. But there were enough references within the first tenth of the book to make me feel like I was missing something, and that was only the start of my issues.
There was so much reference to fire and explosions in the first fifteen percent of the book that it felt like an episode of Rugrats or something about toddlers, not a society of women scientists. There were numerous references to Letty's height and diminutive size and it got very old very quickly to this also very-short reader. The patronizing narration in both these regards was frankly off-putting.
And the love interest and main romance, hoo boy. Greycliff is a caveman wearing a waistcoat and reciting Victorian dialogue, and not in the fun way. It never felt like he took Letty seriously; at one point he wanted to kiss her when she pouted rather than address why the valid reason she was mad. When she leveled factual accusations at him of how he wronged her in the past, he lured her into a makeout session rather than explain himself. It felt very dub-con and not sexy as he commanded her to open her mouth and...YEAH.
The representation I saw in as far as I got felt like tokenism, especially given the un-woke way the main hetero romance was portrayed. I did not have faith any queer characters would be done justice, but kudos for sticking them in there, I guess, as well as labor movement ideals.
I'm disappointed in how a book/series whose premise hinges upon feminism and romance could manage to botch both things.
October 4, 2021
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Cw: miscarriage (side character off page), abandonment/neglect by parent, sex-shaming, ostracization by society, childhood seizure disorder, misogeny, sexism
This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone but I adored the first book and highly recommend it
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-frenemies to lovers
-women in stem
-hate that I'm attracted to you
-an adorable hedgehog
-a rocking carriage ride
-competency kink
I adore this series so much. A society of women in STEM. The metaphors for life and just society are too many to count, but I just want everyone to have a space like this where they are safe, accepted and can make their dreams come true.
Letty and Grey had a complicated history but the sexual chemistry was clear from the beginning. I loved the banter between the two. Both with their walls up, believing love wasn't in their future. Watching those walls breakdown as they kept crashing into each other was electric. They saw each other, even if they didn't always understand the other. The consent, the competency kink, I read it almost all in one sitting. How Grey supported Letty but knew she didn't need a protector. I love this fiercely feminist series so much. Already dying for book 3.
Steam: 3.5
Relationship disclosure: I am social media mutuals with the author
Cw: miscarriage (side character off page), abandonment/neglect by parent, sex-shaming, ostracization by society, childhood seizure disorder, misogeny, sexism
This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone but I adored the first book and highly recommend it
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-frenemies to lovers
-women in stem
-hate that I'm attracted to you
-an adorable hedgehog
-a rocking carriage ride
-competency kink
I adore this series so much. A society of women in STEM. The metaphors for life and just society are too many to count, but I just want everyone to have a space like this where they are safe, accepted and can make their dreams come true.
Letty and Grey had a complicated history but the sexual chemistry was clear from the beginning. I loved the banter between the two. Both with their walls up, believing love wasn't in their future. Watching those walls breakdown as they kept crashing into each other was electric. They saw each other, even if they didn't always understand the other. The consent, the competency kink, I read it almost all in one sitting. How Grey supported Letty but knew she didn't need a protector. I love this fiercely feminist series so much. Already dying for book 3.
Steam: 3.5
Relationship disclosure: I am social media mutuals with the author
October 6, 2021
Another great read from Elizabeth Everett!
I love women in histrom who do unconventional things. In a time where it was frowned up and often, vehemently opposed, for women to be educated, we have this wonderful series of women in STEM. Ugh, I love it so much.
Elizabeth has a beautiful prose to her writing, making you very present in the Victorian time. The characters and romance is spot on and I loved it all.
Can’t wait for more from this author!
This book was gifted to me by the publisher, I am mutual friends with the author on social media, review is my own.
I love women in histrom who do unconventional things. In a time where it was frowned up and often, vehemently opposed, for women to be educated, we have this wonderful series of women in STEM. Ugh, I love it so much.
Elizabeth has a beautiful prose to her writing, making you very present in the Victorian time. The characters and romance is spot on and I loved it all.
Can’t wait for more from this author!
This book was gifted to me by the publisher, I am mutual friends with the author on social media, review is my own.
March 20, 2025
Letty is a brilliant mathematician who was ruined by the guy she thought would marry her (but who didn't do the right thing when he could have). So she's on the fringes of society and in charge of the Lady Scientist Club while the book one couple takes a vacation in the country air. Grey is related to the family that worked together to ruin Letty, but that doesn't stop him from being fine-tuned like a periscope, always aware of her. Too bad he has shut down all passion and emotion for Romance Medicine Reasons and Can Never Love. Also inconvenient, he's also in charge of the LSC with Letty.
Letty is really carrying the guilt of what her misjudgment hath wrought. Her sisters are no longer in good prospects to marry, even though her merchant class family is crazy rich. She is shunned and gossiped about, and doesn't let herself have friends, lest they also get besmirched by association. "Letty wouldn't be responsible for anyone else's pain and embarrassment because of her stupid choices." There is a LOT of "sullied by an act" and atoning and self-punishment for Letty, because "A woman's reputation functioned as currency in the 'polite world' of London. Damaged reputations denied one access to anything resembling a normal life." Meanwhile of course the guy has no fall out at all, and the patriarch who made sure they were shunned by the ton is like, [shrug emoji] about it.
Meanwhile Grey is trying to get the job he always wanted, and all he has to do is capitulate to a bunch of white men who want power and wealth and will sell anyone out to get it. "I thought the Guardians were committed to the betterment of the poor. They should try to lower the cost of bread instead of currying favor with a bunch of useless aristocrats." Ahem.
I thought this book was much better pacing and more focused than book one of the series. It still was a wee bit repetitive and I could certainly spell out the beats of everything that would happen before I hit the half-way point. Everett is a charming writer though, with a message of resiliency and celebrating competency with her women characters. She's clever and meta too, there's a scene where the Letty and Grey are talking about a hedgehog and its protective curl and the reader is like, oh I get it, like their love, and then the characters think explicitly, oh we're not just talking about the hedgehog, its our love and then a little later once you've forgotten the metaphor Everett hits you with a "Give her to me. Obviously, you cannot protect her" when the hero isn't careful with it. She loves a weather as symbol. It's constantly shifting with the emotions throughout the book, "A heart broken. A woman left to pick up the pieces. The sudden lash of rain against the windowpanes started them as the skies thundered and the world around them wept." Also, if I had a nickel for every book I've read in the past week where the characters reference romance novels and why we read them in a meta way, with this book I'd have three nickels...
Nicely done dropping in the pairing for book three at 75% and then not referencing it again. Looks like it will be a fun one!
Letty is really carrying the guilt of what her misjudgment hath wrought. Her sisters are no longer in good prospects to marry, even though her merchant class family is crazy rich. She is shunned and gossiped about, and doesn't let herself have friends, lest they also get besmirched by association. "Letty wouldn't be responsible for anyone else's pain and embarrassment because of her stupid choices." There is a LOT of "sullied by an act" and atoning and self-punishment for Letty, because "A woman's reputation functioned as currency in the 'polite world' of London. Damaged reputations denied one access to anything resembling a normal life." Meanwhile of course the guy has no fall out at all, and the patriarch who made sure they were shunned by the ton is like, [shrug emoji] about it.
Meanwhile Grey is trying to get the job he always wanted, and all he has to do is capitulate to a bunch of white men who want power and wealth and will sell anyone out to get it. "I thought the Guardians were committed to the betterment of the poor. They should try to lower the cost of bread instead of currying favor with a bunch of useless aristocrats." Ahem.
I thought this book was much better pacing and more focused than book one of the series. It still was a wee bit repetitive and I could certainly spell out the beats of everything that would happen before I hit the half-way point. Everett is a charming writer though, with a message of resiliency and celebrating competency with her women characters. She's clever and meta too, there's a scene where the Letty and Grey are talking about a hedgehog and its protective curl and the reader is like, oh I get it, like their love, and then the characters think explicitly, oh we're not just talking about the hedgehog, its our love and then a little later once you've forgotten the metaphor Everett hits you with a "Give her to me. Obviously, you cannot protect her" when the hero isn't careful with it. She loves a weather as symbol. It's constantly shifting with the emotions throughout the book, "A heart broken. A woman left to pick up the pieces. The sudden lash of rain against the windowpanes started them as the skies thundered and the world around them wept." Also, if I had a nickel for every book I've read in the past week where the characters reference romance novels and why we read them in a meta way, with this book I'd have three nickels...
Nicely done dropping in the pairing for book three at 75% and then not referencing it again. Looks like it will be a fun one!
February 15, 2022
A PERFECT EQUATION is just that: A perfect formula for an engaging historical enemies-to-lovers tale I adored from page one.
Part of the author's Secret Scientists of London series, the story features Letty Fenley as a mathematician member of Athena’s Retreat, a Victorian club that allows women in STEM to study in their chosen fields. Just that idea alone made the book a blast for me. Add in a conflict-ridden relationship between Letty and Lord Greycliff, former stepson of Violet who charges him with protecting the club from outside threats.
Letty and Grey first exchange angry barbs over his attempt to control the club. Yet over time each comes to admire the other, in a slow burn pairing that soon turns hot. Highly recommended for fans of Victorian romance who love smart, vulnerable, fully-formed characters. A treat!
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#APerfectEquation #NetGalley
Part of the author's Secret Scientists of London series, the story features Letty Fenley as a mathematician member of Athena’s Retreat, a Victorian club that allows women in STEM to study in their chosen fields. Just that idea alone made the book a blast for me. Add in a conflict-ridden relationship between Letty and Lord Greycliff, former stepson of Violet who charges him with protecting the club from outside threats.
Letty and Grey first exchange angry barbs over his attempt to control the club. Yet over time each comes to admire the other, in a slow burn pairing that soon turns hot. Highly recommended for fans of Victorian romance who love smart, vulnerable, fully-formed characters. A treat!
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#APerfectEquation #NetGalley
February 15, 2022
✨spicy times on everything but a bed . . . carriages, walls, desks, etc. 😏✨
As a woman in STEM, I am always on the search for a new STEM romance that will pass my high standards. This book passed with flying colors and left me pining for the next installment right after.
Tropes:
🥵 enemies to lovers
🧮 mathematician heroine
😫 protective hero
🦔 super cute hedgehog
😏 competence k*nk
🔥 slow burn
🗣 BANTER
😳 sizzling s*xual chemistry
🤤 dirty talk
👯♀️ strong female friendships
How can I even put into words how thoroughly, utterly in love with this book I am. I am obsessed.
The hero had me swooning and blushing like an absolute idiot ☺️☺️ Once his hard exterior melted away, he was never ashamed about how badly he wanted the heroine and wanted to make her happy 😩😩 He also had so many adorable, wholesome moments. HE READ A ROMANCE NOVEL and wanted to talk with her about it!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? HOW DOES ELIZABETH EVERETT EXPECT ME TO RECOVER AFTER THAT 😭😩🥵
As you all know, I am a WH*RE for a competency k*nk in romances. Two MCs who just so thoroughly complete each other in every way. Equals in every sense. That was Letty and Grey 😩🥵
While giving us a sizzling hot plate of amazing romance, Everett seamlessly wove the very real stories of women, a system insistent on seeing them fail, and how the women of those times battled the patriarchy head on!
I haven’t gotten a chance to read the first book in this series but you better believe I am running to my bookshelf to read it right now. 😍😍
Please pick this book up so I can get off the floor from begging on my knees.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars | 🌶🌶🌶/ 5 steam
Thank you to Berkley Romance, Netgalley, and Elizabeth Everett for an eARC and finished copy in exchange for my honest opinion ❤️
As a woman in STEM, I am always on the search for a new STEM romance that will pass my high standards. This book passed with flying colors and left me pining for the next installment right after.
Tropes:
🥵 enemies to lovers
🧮 mathematician heroine
😫 protective hero
🦔 super cute hedgehog
😏 competence k*nk
🔥 slow burn
🗣 BANTER
😳 sizzling s*xual chemistry
🤤 dirty talk
👯♀️ strong female friendships
How can I even put into words how thoroughly, utterly in love with this book I am. I am obsessed.
The hero had me swooning and blushing like an absolute idiot ☺️☺️ Once his hard exterior melted away, he was never ashamed about how badly he wanted the heroine and wanted to make her happy 😩😩 He also had so many adorable, wholesome moments. HE READ A ROMANCE NOVEL and wanted to talk with her about it!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? HOW DOES ELIZABETH EVERETT EXPECT ME TO RECOVER AFTER THAT 😭😩🥵
As you all know, I am a WH*RE for a competency k*nk in romances. Two MCs who just so thoroughly complete each other in every way. Equals in every sense. That was Letty and Grey 😩🥵
While giving us a sizzling hot plate of amazing romance, Everett seamlessly wove the very real stories of women, a system insistent on seeing them fail, and how the women of those times battled the patriarchy head on!
I haven’t gotten a chance to read the first book in this series but you better believe I am running to my bookshelf to read it right now. 😍😍
Please pick this book up so I can get off the floor from begging on my knees.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars | 🌶🌶🌶/ 5 steam
Thank you to Berkley Romance, Netgalley, and Elizabeth Everett for an eARC and finished copy in exchange for my honest opinion ❤️
February 6, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Miss Letitia Fenley - Letty to her friends - may be one of the smartest mathematicians in England, but as a woman, she's looked down upon for it. Readying herself to compete for the prestigious Rosewood Prize for Mathematics, she's also asked by her best friend, Violet, to look after the Athena's Retreat for other intelligent women, alongside Lord William Hughes, the Viscount Greycliff. Since they met, Grey and Letty have been at loggerheads, not helped by the explosive chemistry between them. Grey thinks it'll be easy to achieve to his stepmother's wish, but running the retreat is harder than he ever expected, and soon he's learning more than he ever expected. But Letty is hiding a secret from her past, and when their past comes back to haunt them, will Grey let go of his past feelings, and the control of his uncle, to find happiness and love?
I was so happy when I was approved for my copy of this book (thanks Berkley), and couldn't wait to get started. It was clear in A Lady's Formula for Love that Letty and Grey had a past, and their hatred for each other was masking stronger feelings that neither wanted to explore. I needed to know more about what had happened between them, and if they could be together, and this book did it perfectly! Grey was a stickler for the rules, and initially seemed to look down upon the lady scientists, but when he spent more time at the retreat, and learnt about them all, it was nice to see his aloof exterior start to crack. He had been a sickly child, and the strong hand of his uncle had helped him 'overcome' his weakness, including never eating cake and being strict in his routine. He really didn't let anything or anyone in, so seeing how Letty first angered him, and then made him fall in love, was a joy. I loved both of the characters, but I think Grey had such a growth, that he is definitely my favourite! This series is quickly becoming one of my favourites, with swoony characters, amazing plot lines, and perfect writing - I can't wait for book 3!
Miss Letitia Fenley - Letty to her friends - may be one of the smartest mathematicians in England, but as a woman, she's looked down upon for it. Readying herself to compete for the prestigious Rosewood Prize for Mathematics, she's also asked by her best friend, Violet, to look after the Athena's Retreat for other intelligent women, alongside Lord William Hughes, the Viscount Greycliff. Since they met, Grey and Letty have been at loggerheads, not helped by the explosive chemistry between them. Grey thinks it'll be easy to achieve to his stepmother's wish, but running the retreat is harder than he ever expected, and soon he's learning more than he ever expected. But Letty is hiding a secret from her past, and when their past comes back to haunt them, will Grey let go of his past feelings, and the control of his uncle, to find happiness and love?
I was so happy when I was approved for my copy of this book (thanks Berkley), and couldn't wait to get started. It was clear in A Lady's Formula for Love that Letty and Grey had a past, and their hatred for each other was masking stronger feelings that neither wanted to explore. I needed to know more about what had happened between them, and if they could be together, and this book did it perfectly! Grey was a stickler for the rules, and initially seemed to look down upon the lady scientists, but when he spent more time at the retreat, and learnt about them all, it was nice to see his aloof exterior start to crack. He had been a sickly child, and the strong hand of his uncle had helped him 'overcome' his weakness, including never eating cake and being strict in his routine. He really didn't let anything or anyone in, so seeing how Letty first angered him, and then made him fall in love, was a joy. I loved both of the characters, but I think Grey had such a growth, that he is definitely my favourite! This series is quickly becoming one of my favourites, with swoony characters, amazing plot lines, and perfect writing - I can't wait for book 3!
June 3, 2022
Everett’s come through again with another fabulous tale about the group of females scientists who toil on their theorems and investigations at Athena’s retreat.
Letty Fenley, a brilliant mathematician and social outcast is the bane of Viscount Greyling’s life, and also irresistible.
Danger and public opinion about the place of women dog their steps.
Another awesome read!
Letty Fenley, a brilliant mathematician and social outcast is the bane of Viscount Greyling’s life, and also irresistible.
Danger and public opinion about the place of women dog their steps.
Another awesome read!
February 9, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 4 of 5 Stars
Series: The Secret Scientists of London #2
Publication Date: 2/15/22
Period: 1843 – Victorian London
Number of Pages: 334
This was a fun, entertaining, well-written second book in the series, but it can totally be read as a stand-alone. I think the author is beginning to hit her stride because this book stayed more focused than the previous one. I would assume part of that is because the first book also had to set up the series, the characters, Athena’s Retreat, etc. as well as providing a sigh-worthy romance.
Lord William Hughes, the Viscount Greycliff, had epilepsy when he was a child and it led to a very unhappy childhood. His father was ashamed of him and hid him away in the country until his godfather, Earl Melton, rescued him. Of course, his godfather also raised him to be like himself – stark, unbending, detached. His life was filled with things he must avoid – emotions, exuberances, etc. because they brought on his seizures. At least that was his godfather’s interpretation. Grey has lived that way his entire life and he has made few real human connections – at least until a pint-sized termagant whirls into his life – again.
Miss Letitia Fenley, a brilliant mathematician, a loving sister and daughter, is unwelcome in polite society. She made a mistake in judgment six years ago and she’s still paying the price – as is her family. Her sisters who could have made advantageous marriages will be unable to do so now. Her family is very wealthy as the owners of Fenley’s Fantastic Fripperies, but that wealth won’t afford them entry into a society that has turned its back on them. The mistake – well, I won’t tell you in this review, but suffice it to say that the REAL truth of the matter was not revealed at the time it happened. Two members of Grey’s family know the truth – and the lies – but Grey only knows the lies that were told at the time.
Grey and Letty are forced to work together to run Athena’s Retreat while Lady Violet and her husband are in the country mourning the loss of their unborn child. They immediately butt heads because of their past history. Can they learn to work together for the good of Athena’s Retreat? It would appear that they cannot because they are coming at the problem from two different perspectives. For Letty, Athena’s Retreat is a balm for her soul – a place she needs as much as she needs air or water. For Grey, it is a means to an end – he wants to assure his ascension to the directorship of The Department. The Department is a secret non-governmental agency whose spies provide information to various and sundry individuals ‘for the good of the country’. When an unexpected challenger, Victor Armitage, seeks the directorship as well, it seems closing Athena’s Retreat is something that Grey just has to do – especially with the potential for violence from Armitage’s group, the Guardians of Domesticity. The Guardians are violently opposed to any kind of women’s suffrage.
I enjoyed watching Letty letting down her defenses – and watching her tear down Grey’s defenses as well. Grey has epiphany after epiphany before he finally realizes he has only been living half a life. There were some steamy scenes, some intense scenes, some amusing scenes, and a plethora of absolutely delightful secondary characters. I particularly enjoyed George Willis, Earl Grantham, and Margaret Gault who will be featured in the next book. Of course, I’m also pulling for Letty’s very sweet, loving brother – Sam – to get his HEA as well.
I hope you’ll read and enjoy this book as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: The Secret Scientists of London #2
Publication Date: 2/15/22
Period: 1843 – Victorian London
Number of Pages: 334
This was a fun, entertaining, well-written second book in the series, but it can totally be read as a stand-alone. I think the author is beginning to hit her stride because this book stayed more focused than the previous one. I would assume part of that is because the first book also had to set up the series, the characters, Athena’s Retreat, etc. as well as providing a sigh-worthy romance.
Lord William Hughes, the Viscount Greycliff, had epilepsy when he was a child and it led to a very unhappy childhood. His father was ashamed of him and hid him away in the country until his godfather, Earl Melton, rescued him. Of course, his godfather also raised him to be like himself – stark, unbending, detached. His life was filled with things he must avoid – emotions, exuberances, etc. because they brought on his seizures. At least that was his godfather’s interpretation. Grey has lived that way his entire life and he has made few real human connections – at least until a pint-sized termagant whirls into his life – again.
Miss Letitia Fenley, a brilliant mathematician, a loving sister and daughter, is unwelcome in polite society. She made a mistake in judgment six years ago and she’s still paying the price – as is her family. Her sisters who could have made advantageous marriages will be unable to do so now. Her family is very wealthy as the owners of Fenley’s Fantastic Fripperies, but that wealth won’t afford them entry into a society that has turned its back on them. The mistake – well, I won’t tell you in this review, but suffice it to say that the REAL truth of the matter was not revealed at the time it happened. Two members of Grey’s family know the truth – and the lies – but Grey only knows the lies that were told at the time.
Grey and Letty are forced to work together to run Athena’s Retreat while Lady Violet and her husband are in the country mourning the loss of their unborn child. They immediately butt heads because of their past history. Can they learn to work together for the good of Athena’s Retreat? It would appear that they cannot because they are coming at the problem from two different perspectives. For Letty, Athena’s Retreat is a balm for her soul – a place she needs as much as she needs air or water. For Grey, it is a means to an end – he wants to assure his ascension to the directorship of The Department. The Department is a secret non-governmental agency whose spies provide information to various and sundry individuals ‘for the good of the country’. When an unexpected challenger, Victor Armitage, seeks the directorship as well, it seems closing Athena’s Retreat is something that Grey just has to do – especially with the potential for violence from Armitage’s group, the Guardians of Domesticity. The Guardians are violently opposed to any kind of women’s suffrage.
I enjoyed watching Letty letting down her defenses – and watching her tear down Grey’s defenses as well. Grey has epiphany after epiphany before he finally realizes he has only been living half a life. There were some steamy scenes, some intense scenes, some amusing scenes, and a plethora of absolutely delightful secondary characters. I particularly enjoyed George Willis, Earl Grantham, and Margaret Gault who will be featured in the next book. Of course, I’m also pulling for Letty’s very sweet, loving brother – Sam – to get his HEA as well.
I hope you’ll read and enjoy this book as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 4, 2022
Looking for BRIDGERTON x THE LOVE HYPOTHESIS? Then Elizabeth Everett’s A PERFECT EQUATION is for you. This historical romance has everything – enemies to lovers, sexy carriage rides, mathematical equations, a secret society of women scientists, intrigue and drama, and women of STEM!
Something extra I loved about this book is how much of the plot reflects modern-day American politics, especially regarding women’s rights, treatment of the poor, and how loud fringe groups spouting hate and ignorance can influence public policy.
If you like your steamy romance served up with intelligent, strong women, you’ll love A PERFECT EQUATION.
Something extra I loved about this book is how much of the plot reflects modern-day American politics, especially regarding women’s rights, treatment of the poor, and how loud fringe groups spouting hate and ignorance can influence public policy.
If you like your steamy romance served up with intelligent, strong women, you’ll love A PERFECT EQUATION.
January 16, 2022
I just really enjoy the ladies of Athena's Retreat and the quirky, charming world Everett has created so, so much. She is the best at writing emotionally repressed men who just lose it over their love interests, and smart, prickly women who make those men work for it. I also find a lot of her historical details refreshing—I feel like her work really emphasizes that London was like...dirty? And smoggy? And obviously she knows her science (and in this case, math!). I also appreciate a cishet historical romance that includes both a trans side character and queer side characters. (I know there was criticism of the trans character in the first book; while I personally didn't feel offended by the handling of Winthram in the first book, people might be pleased to know there is no deadnaming or anything of the sort in this one.)
CW for miscarriage, which isn't on page and isn't related to the MCs of this book, but is discussed honestly. (I personally really appreciate honest mentions of miscarriage, in both historical and contemporary, but I know many people might need a warning.) I can't wait for the next one!
CW for miscarriage, which isn't on page and isn't related to the MCs of this book, but is discussed honestly. (I personally really appreciate honest mentions of miscarriage, in both historical and contemporary, but I know many people might need a warning.) I can't wait for the next one!
September 6, 2021
I just couldn't get into this one. I had trouble relating to Letty and Grey, and it was difficult to keep track of the many, many side characters.
Thanks for Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks for Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2022
Years ago Letty made a mistake that cost her and her family their tenuous place in society, it also caused the rift between her and Grey. A rift that remained intact until they were forced to work together and Grey learns the truth of what really happened versus the “truth” his godfather Lord Melton told him. Plagued through childhood by seizures, Lord Melton was the man that took Grey under his wing and molded him into the disciplined, emotionless, serious man he is today. He is also the man that brought Grey into the “Department” a secret government agency that manages domestic strife, and now that he is retiring, he has offered the position to Grey, but when the leader of the Guardians vies for the position, Lord Melton suggests that Grey close down Athena’s Retreat will show the funders of the department that he is the best choice.
As a brilliant mathematician, Letty fights tooth and nail to dissuade Grey from closing the club, a place that is a safe haven for so many women, herself included. And at the same time fights to keep herself from falling in love with a man she should despise! Because despite his many flaws, Grey shows her great kindness and respect and she finds she is not as immune to him as she thought. Together they try to find a way to keep the club open and out of the Guardians sites – but when danger strikes, Grey may have to betray Letty to keep her safe and the price may well be their HEA.
This is the second installment of the Secret Scientists of London series, but this well-written novel can certainly be read as a standalone title. This book is not quite as wordy as the first book and while a lot is going on, it also seems more focused than the first book. The book does sport some steamyish love scenes, great secondary characters, a few amusing scenes, secrets, closure, and a sigh-worthy ending. I did enjoy this book more than the previous offering, but with that said, I still felt that romance was muted and not quite as satisfying as I had hoped for. Overall, this was a very good read, which I would happily recommend and I am looking forward to the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
As a brilliant mathematician, Letty fights tooth and nail to dissuade Grey from closing the club, a place that is a safe haven for so many women, herself included. And at the same time fights to keep herself from falling in love with a man she should despise! Because despite his many flaws, Grey shows her great kindness and respect and she finds she is not as immune to him as she thought. Together they try to find a way to keep the club open and out of the Guardians sites – but when danger strikes, Grey may have to betray Letty to keep her safe and the price may well be their HEA.
This is the second installment of the Secret Scientists of London series, but this well-written novel can certainly be read as a standalone title. This book is not quite as wordy as the first book and while a lot is going on, it also seems more focused than the first book. The book does sport some steamyish love scenes, great secondary characters, a few amusing scenes, secrets, closure, and a sigh-worthy ending. I did enjoy this book more than the previous offering, but with that said, I still felt that romance was muted and not quite as satisfying as I had hoped for. Overall, this was a very good read, which I would happily recommend and I am looking forward to the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
July 29, 2022
MORE FEMALE SCIENTISTS, WOOHOO!!! I loved this book!! Letty was so lovely and brilliant and brave and determined to remake the world into what it ought to be, no matter the cost to herself. But she is also sad and scared and hiding so much of herself away. And Grey….he made me want to shake him with his stubbornness but he had a lot of unlearning to do. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for the next in the series!!
February 16, 2022
Y'all, it's "A Perfect Equation" Book Birthday!
Today @elizabetheverettauthor The Perfect Equation is gifted to the world!
TBH, I am not a Stem girl. My brain doesn't work like that and I'm always afraid I won't enjoy Stem based books. But to quote this book itself:
"Who knew sciencing could be fun?!"
I mean, that one quote could seriously just be my whole review. Done!
I love EE's humor. It's so real life and subtle. I totally resonated with the short girl jokes and definitely the being hangry. The pedestal that the staff has placed Arthur Kneland (Hero from book #1) on is hilarious while Grey stands there like, "Um, hi, I'm standing right here." Turtle rescue asylums, a bit of cross-dressing and best supporting actor via Letty's brother can all be found in this book.
And can EE ever write descriptions! I just imagine her having a magical pen that bespells the ink which leaves the pen in gold glitter ribbons that deliver beautiful phrases onto a piece of paper. She talks about how we wait for spring to come so the world is pretty enough to bother with again. There is a stunning description of Letty swimming thought the x and y axis of a mathematical equation.
This book is charming and brought me such joy and, yes, EE, it did make me smile many times.
And to quote this book one more time:
"The author deserves your shillings for her hard work.”
Alrighty, they have kissed against a bookcase and I've told you about it!
Today @elizabetheverettauthor The Perfect Equation is gifted to the world!
TBH, I am not a Stem girl. My brain doesn't work like that and I'm always afraid I won't enjoy Stem based books. But to quote this book itself:
"Who knew sciencing could be fun?!"
I mean, that one quote could seriously just be my whole review. Done!
I love EE's humor. It's so real life and subtle. I totally resonated with the short girl jokes and definitely the being hangry. The pedestal that the staff has placed Arthur Kneland (Hero from book #1) on is hilarious while Grey stands there like, "Um, hi, I'm standing right here." Turtle rescue asylums, a bit of cross-dressing and best supporting actor via Letty's brother can all be found in this book.
And can EE ever write descriptions! I just imagine her having a magical pen that bespells the ink which leaves the pen in gold glitter ribbons that deliver beautiful phrases onto a piece of paper. She talks about how we wait for spring to come so the world is pretty enough to bother with again. There is a stunning description of Letty swimming thought the x and y axis of a mathematical equation.
This book is charming and brought me such joy and, yes, EE, it did make me smile many times.
And to quote this book one more time:
"The author deserves your shillings for her hard work.”
Alrighty, they have kissed against a bookcase and I've told you about it!
February 19, 2022
4.5 stars
A Perfect Equation is an enemies to lovers’ story which I thought was delightful and I absolutely enjoyed. Letty Finley has been put in charge of Athena Retreat, a club for London’s women scientist, but doesn’t like the fact that she shares this responsibility with the one man she loathes. Nobleman William Hughes, Viscount Greycliff, caught Letty in a compromising position 6 years ago with his cousin and she’s been ostracized from good society. They both have a low opinion of one another but slowly learn that they have misjudged one another and see them in a new light. However, they both have different goals to achieve and unfortunately, they come in conflict with one another.
I love it when I come across something fresh and this story of a feminist mathematician trying to break the mold of what a woman’s role in Victorian England is brilliant. The fact that a group of women created their own social club in order to hide their experiments and work behind closed doors, makes for some interesting encounters when you just never know what might happen. For Letty, the author made math poetic and something to get lost in which made math look warm and comfy. The other characters in the story brought the whimsy and humor which definitely brought the story to life. A Perfect Equation is definitely a great addition to the Secret Scientists of London series, and I look forward to more. I would recommend reading the first in the series, A Lady’s Formula for Love, because you’ll really enjoy A Perfect Equation better to understand the setup for this storyline.
A Perfect Equation is a smart, funny and delightful story for any historical romance reader and shouldn’t be missed.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
A Perfect Equation is an enemies to lovers’ story which I thought was delightful and I absolutely enjoyed. Letty Finley has been put in charge of Athena Retreat, a club for London’s women scientist, but doesn’t like the fact that she shares this responsibility with the one man she loathes. Nobleman William Hughes, Viscount Greycliff, caught Letty in a compromising position 6 years ago with his cousin and she’s been ostracized from good society. They both have a low opinion of one another but slowly learn that they have misjudged one another and see them in a new light. However, they both have different goals to achieve and unfortunately, they come in conflict with one another.
I love it when I come across something fresh and this story of a feminist mathematician trying to break the mold of what a woman’s role in Victorian England is brilliant. The fact that a group of women created their own social club in order to hide their experiments and work behind closed doors, makes for some interesting encounters when you just never know what might happen. For Letty, the author made math poetic and something to get lost in which made math look warm and comfy. The other characters in the story brought the whimsy and humor which definitely brought the story to life. A Perfect Equation is definitely a great addition to the Secret Scientists of London series, and I look forward to more. I would recommend reading the first in the series, A Lady’s Formula for Love, because you’ll really enjoy A Perfect Equation better to understand the setup for this storyline.
A Perfect Equation is a smart, funny and delightful story for any historical romance reader and shouldn’t be missed.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 27, 2022
Thank you Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are of my own.
I ended up loving this book after a slow-is start. Once we got to 25/30% done with the book I was enthralled and nothing got in between me and the ending. SO GOOD. The rationality behind the characters, the soft openings of the characters, the CHEMISTRY, the steamy scenes! My word those were something that you don't normally see in historical (except Joanna Shupe's The Prince of Broadway). I loved the way that Everett weaved politics, culture, romance, math, and heart into this novel in such a kind manner. While I don't think this book is going to be for everyone, I did end up adoring this novel even more than the first.
CW: miscarriage (off page), sexism, childhood illness
Loves:
The Steam: Yes, I'm starting here. But this book jumped from decent to wow, that was something real quick here. And it went beyond just the literal happenings between the characters. These scenes worked double hard to display passion and trust, things that the characters grapple with. And sometimes I'm just this easy to please.
Character Arcs: Grey and Letty are amazing characters not because they're entirely likable, but rather you see them grow and develop. I fully trust that their relationship would keep after the book. They made mistakes and learned from their past, which is everything to me. I wish that every book had this change for their characters. With that, this is a very character driven book.
Athena's Retreat: When I was reading A Lady's Formula for Love I don't think I fully grasped this entity. In this novel, A Perfect Equation, you become more embedded in the characters and goings on. I fell in love with the side characters and the way they interacted throughout the story with themselves and the leads. Honestly, Grey's interactions with the women was the best. (The explosion scene?!? The hedgehog scene?!?-- we can talk after you've read it!).
Complexity in Narrative: While this isn't a plot driven book there's a lot going on here. The discussions around women pushing boundaries and learning, the presence of toxic masculinity, voting rights, double standards, and many other things I'm forgetting makes this book really spectacular. When something can be written and fit in with 1840s England and have me in 2022 USA relate. Actually, I don't know if that's a good thing. Either way, Everett weaves a beautiful novel.
Meh:
Pacing: While I ended up loving this book, it took until the 25/30% mark for me to become fully engrossed in the novel. I kept reading just because I wanted to know what would happen (mostly their relationship in how they would get over things).
Communication: I understand why they didn't clearly communicate in the beginning but I wanted to tear my hair out. If Grey or Letty (or the women of Athena's) would have just LISTENED to each other we'd be good. But there was so much talking over each other I went mad. It got a lot better towards then end, but the beginning was a struggle for me.
Long Story Short:
Do I recommend this book? Yes. If female mathematicians and scientists that are secret romantics with heavy burdens of their past or nobility that bucked the system and have complicated pasts are your thing, is this the book for you. I totally recommend it! A perfect historical romance for those who don't read historicals and also for those who want a different style of historical romance. Just be aware of the content warnings I have above. Everett did a wonderful job on her sophomore novel and I cannot wait to read all of her future books!
This book would be perfect for you if you liked her first novel (A Lady's Formula for Love), any Evie Dunmore books, Manda Collins books, or Bombshell by Sarah MacLean as just a few similarities!
I ended up loving this book after a slow-is start. Once we got to 25/30% done with the book I was enthralled and nothing got in between me and the ending. SO GOOD. The rationality behind the characters, the soft openings of the characters, the CHEMISTRY, the steamy scenes! My word those were something that you don't normally see in historical (except Joanna Shupe's The Prince of Broadway). I loved the way that Everett weaved politics, culture, romance, math, and heart into this novel in such a kind manner. While I don't think this book is going to be for everyone, I did end up adoring this novel even more than the first.
CW: miscarriage (off page), sexism, childhood illness
Loves:
The Steam: Yes, I'm starting here. But this book jumped from decent to wow, that was something real quick here. And it went beyond just the literal happenings between the characters. These scenes worked double hard to display passion and trust, things that the characters grapple with. And sometimes I'm just this easy to please.
Character Arcs: Grey and Letty are amazing characters not because they're entirely likable, but rather you see them grow and develop. I fully trust that their relationship would keep after the book. They made mistakes and learned from their past, which is everything to me. I wish that every book had this change for their characters. With that, this is a very character driven book.
Athena's Retreat: When I was reading A Lady's Formula for Love I don't think I fully grasped this entity. In this novel, A Perfect Equation, you become more embedded in the characters and goings on. I fell in love with the side characters and the way they interacted throughout the story with themselves and the leads. Honestly, Grey's interactions with the women was the best. (The explosion scene?!? The hedgehog scene?!?-- we can talk after you've read it!).
Complexity in Narrative: While this isn't a plot driven book there's a lot going on here. The discussions around women pushing boundaries and learning, the presence of toxic masculinity, voting rights, double standards, and many other things I'm forgetting makes this book really spectacular. When something can be written and fit in with 1840s England and have me in 2022 USA relate. Actually, I don't know if that's a good thing. Either way, Everett weaves a beautiful novel.
Meh:
Pacing: While I ended up loving this book, it took until the 25/30% mark for me to become fully engrossed in the novel. I kept reading just because I wanted to know what would happen (mostly their relationship in how they would get over things).
Communication: I understand why they didn't clearly communicate in the beginning but I wanted to tear my hair out. If Grey or Letty (or the women of Athena's) would have just LISTENED to each other we'd be good. But there was so much talking over each other I went mad. It got a lot better towards then end, but the beginning was a struggle for me.
Long Story Short:
Do I recommend this book? Yes. If female mathematicians and scientists that are secret romantics with heavy burdens of their past or nobility that bucked the system and have complicated pasts are your thing, is this the book for you. I totally recommend it! A perfect historical romance for those who don't read historicals and also for those who want a different style of historical romance. Just be aware of the content warnings I have above. Everett did a wonderful job on her sophomore novel and I cannot wait to read all of her future books!
This book would be perfect for you if you liked her first novel (A Lady's Formula for Love), any Evie Dunmore books, Manda Collins books, or Bombshell by Sarah MacLean as just a few similarities!
February 16, 2022
Letitia Fenley has a lofty goal - to win the Rosewood Prize for Mathematics, something actually denied to women. However, the brilliant young woman has more than that on her plate. Tasked with managing a retreat that is for England's women scientists, Letitia certainly has her hands full. More than that, she has been dealing with the consequences of an uncertain past.
Letitia soon finds herself working with Lord William Hughes, Viscout Greycliff. Either the pair are knocking heads, they discover a different type of tension, that of a shared attraction. As things turn out, their conflicts grow exponentially when it is made clear that Grey could prevent Letitia from reaching her goal.
What an excellent second book in an already delightful series. I love reading historical fiction books set in the Gilded Age and this book reminded me of some of those. One thing readers might appreciate are the less than perfect protagonists, especially Grey with his history of seizures. In addition, these forward-thinking women in this series pioneered in fabulous ways and although this is a fictionalized story, readers will enjoy the setting, the characters, the experiments and the mathematical and scientific advancements. I look forward to reading the third book in the series, Love by Design, set for release next year.
Many thanks to Berkley Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Letitia soon finds herself working with Lord William Hughes, Viscout Greycliff. Either the pair are knocking heads, they discover a different type of tension, that of a shared attraction. As things turn out, their conflicts grow exponentially when it is made clear that Grey could prevent Letitia from reaching her goal.
What an excellent second book in an already delightful series. I love reading historical fiction books set in the Gilded Age and this book reminded me of some of those. One thing readers might appreciate are the less than perfect protagonists, especially Grey with his history of seizures. In addition, these forward-thinking women in this series pioneered in fabulous ways and although this is a fictionalized story, readers will enjoy the setting, the characters, the experiments and the mathematical and scientific advancements. I look forward to reading the third book in the series, Love by Design, set for release next year.
Many thanks to Berkley Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
February 19, 2022
An entertaining, swoon-worthy historical romance featuring, Letitia, a mathematician and a woman in STEM. This was definitely an easy to read, thoroughly enjoyable Victorian love story perfect for fans of Evie Dunmore. I really, really enjoyed that Gray was a character with a history of seizures - it just made him so much more three-dimensional and relatable.
Full of feminist fervor and many steamy scenes (none of which involve a bed!). Fans of this series will not be disappointed. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy! This was also enjoyable on audio narrated by Elizabeth Jasicki.
Full of feminist fervor and many steamy scenes (none of which involve a bed!). Fans of this series will not be disappointed. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy! This was also enjoyable on audio narrated by Elizabeth Jasicki.
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