Rating: 3 out of 5.

This was a fun historical romance with a lot of diverse characters. Emily’s sister Amy is sick and they don’t have money for a doctor. So, Emily poses as Amy and takes Amy’s new position as a governess at Fairmont House. But Emily isn’t like Amy. She’s not polite, she’s not polished, and she has never taught a child in her life. She is, however, determined to make this job last long enough to get a few paychecks, and maybe a few trinkets to pawn, so Amy can get the treatment she needs.

But, despite her reluctance, she gets drawn into the Edwards family’s drama. Grace is young and talkative and immediately takes to anyone that pays her attention. Aster is the complete opposite. She’s surly and angry, but a witty and a talented artist. Emily is confused by the family and servants acting more like a family than master/servant, and doesn’t trust that it’s real.

I really liked all of the characters in the book. Emily is central to the story, and even her main love interest, Cpt. Edwards, is a side character. I can understand where Emily is coming from. She’s never caught a break in life and has had to scrabble for everything she’s gotten. She’s tough, she’s naturally suspicious of everyone’s motives, and she keeps people at arm’s length. It was fun seeing her growth throughout the book. It came on gradually and even when she did begin to soften, she still bristled at being treated kindly.

Cpt. Edwards was a swoon-worthy MC who treated everyone with respect and kindness. He looked past Emily’s tough exterior and saw someone that cares deeply for her loved ones and isn’t afraid to fight for what she needs or wants. The bi and transgender representation was wonderful to see in a historical romance. I think the casual acceptance by most of the characters is a bit unrealistic for the time period, but it’s nice to think that could have happened. I marked this down 1/2 a star because the story really lagged in the middle and I don’t like third act breakups. But, that’s just me. Others may not be annoyed by that.

I listened to the audio of this book and enjoyed the narrator. Her voice was expressive and pleasant to hear. She brought the book to life and I found myself lost in the story well past when I would have normally stopped if I had been reading instead.

I was provided a complimentary e-copy and audio book from NetGalley and MacMillan. All opinions are my own.