The Silver Petticoat Book Club discussion

It's time to check in on our fifth book club pick from our 2023 Winter Selection.

Did you read "The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion" by Beth Brower with us? What are your thoughts on this historical fiction book? Did you love the characters? Do you have a favorite part? Did you find the book clever and witty? Do you plan to read the next volume?

Let us know in the comments! And feel free to start a discussion! (If you haven't read the book, you can always respond later!)

Yes! I had the fun of re-reading this simultaneously with a couple of other friends. Emma M. Lion is probably the best first-person narrator I’ve ever read. As for favorite characters, Young Hawkes is right up there at the top of my list. He’s so other-worldly and enigmatic and kind.

To anyone reading this for the first time, I think it might help to know that if this first volume feels like a lot of stage-setting, that’s exactly what it is… as you move into Volumes 2 and beyond, the fun stuff really starts simmering, including all the falling-off-my-chair laughing bits. This first one is more like the beginning moments of a miniseries, where you’re getting your bearings, but just you wait… 😉

Incidentally, I’ve started a GR group specifically to discuss the volumes of Emma M Lion, as well as other books by Beth Brower. If anyone plans to continue the series, feel free to look us up at “The Emma M. Lion Appreciation Society”!

I have it downloaded....haven't started it yet. 😬

Alisha wrote: "Yes! I had the fun of re-reading this simultaneously with a couple of other friends. Emma M. Lion is probably the best first-person narrator I’ve ever read. As for favorite characters, Young Hawkes..."

That's good to know for everyone who enjoyed the first book! And thank you for sharing. That's a fun idea for a book group. :)

Lepp wrote: "I have it downloaded....haven't started it yet. 😬"

It's a fun read and will make you want to read more!

Silver Petticoat wrote: "It's time to check in on our fifth book club pick from our 2023 Winter Selection.

Did you read "The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion" by Beth Brower with us? What are your thoughts on this hist..."

I really liked Emma's narrative voice. She has obviously gone through some hard times since the deaths of her parents, but she still expresses herself in a light, witty style. I could imagine Elizabeth Bennett writing this kind of journal. I'm intrigued by the tenant in Lapis Lazuli Minor and want to know more about him. I also want to know more about Young Hawkes. I like the hint of the supernatural, too. I hope that shows up again. St. Crispian's is a really charming setting. This book gave me just enough to know that I want more. I will definitely be reading the other volumes.

Alisha wrote: "Yes! I had the fun of re-reading this simultaneously with a couple of other friends. Emma M. Lion is probably the best first-person narrator I’ve ever read. As for favorite characters, Young Hawkes..."

What a fun idea. I will definitely be checking out the group. It's good to know that the series lives up to the potential of the first volume.