*swoon* What a start to romance releases in 2022! Mimi Matthews had me positively giddy with this romance that I read in virtually one sitting. She’s created such dimensional, delightful leads and I truly fell in love right alongside them. It was such a refreshing take on a historical, with a progressive heroine but not in a burdensome, overwrought way that doesn’t fit the genre, and an absolutely perfect hero I couldn’t get enough of. The talk of horses and fashions of the Victorian era was just the cherry on top! Highly recommend for a truly charming historical read! Comes out January 11!

Mimi Matthews has a flare for unforgettable characters, heart-clenching romance, and clever enchanting dialogue set in Victorian era. I really enjoyed this book for these trademark traits. Ahmad is an incredibly unique and lovable hero - from his heritage, his profession, his creative vision, to his unwavering determination, loyalty and passion. Evelyn is also a unique Victorian heroine with her love for anything related to horses, her independence, and her progressive thinking. Their encounters and romance are indeed quite memorable.

Unfortunately the focus on spiritualism and courtesans put a damper on my enthusiasm for the plot, though I understand that these may have been influences in Victorian society. Ahmad and Evelyn overcoming insurmountable obstacles of society was admirable but perhaps not completely realistic, though it did make for a great fun romance.

I received the book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This is my first time reading Mimi Matthews, and I love her prose and the amount of research she's put into her book. As a historical fiction, it's a solid 5-star! But, as a romance, it's only a 3-star for me, and it's closed door with just a couple of kissing scenes.

What I love about this book is the historical view of Victorian society in 1862, not long after the death of Prince Albert (Queen Victoria's husband). Many real events and historical figures were incorporated into the story, making it an interesting read. Evelyn Maltravers, a skilled equestrienne, came to London for her first season, determined to look for a husband who could support her and provide for her younger sisters. She was in need of an impressive riding habit for her daily ride in Hyde Park, with the hope of catching the attention of potential suitors...

Ahmad Malik was half Indian half British, he came to England at 15 to support his younger cousin Mira. They did whatever they could to survive, not just physically, but also mentally, due to their mixed heritage. He had a special talent in making riding habits and beautiful dresses. So he proposed a partnership with Evelyn where she would showcase his creations to polite society...

I feel there wasn't a strong chemistry between Evelyn and Ahmad. So many other elements happening throughout the book that diluted their romantic relationship. That being said, if you're interested in reading about the life of a biracial tradesman during this time period, his struggles with his identity as well as the prejudice society cast upon him, this book is for you!

*Special thanks to Berkley for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

What first struck me about The Siren of Sussex was this gorgeous cover! I loved the cover even more after I read the book. Rarely do covers match what's between them, but this one does. The Siren of Sussex is everything I wanted it to be. It's fashionable and adventurous, different yet familiar. I read it in one sitting, I was so enthralled with this glimpse into Victorian England! I love how natural the love story progressed and how richly the characters were developed. I can't wait to read the sequel!

E-ARC provided by Netgalley, Berkeley Romance, and Penguin.

This first installment of the Belles of London, a brand new Victorian era series from an author I can always count on to provide me with an intriguing and insightful storyline populated with interesting and well-rounded characters, succeeds on every level. Miss Evelyn Maltravers- reticent and self-effacing in some ways, but refreshingly blunt and strong in others, is our kind and determined heroine. For our hero we have Ahmad Malik, an equally complex character in the person of a mixed race man who feels himself outside society yet still set upon success within it and rising above his decidedly disadvantageous origins. While Evelyn shrewdly revises her various plans as circumstances change, Ahmad too adjusts the path to his goals and slowly comes to some realizations that alter his outlook on life. It was really a treat to see these people who became so real to me, find their paths and goals converge as they navigate society and various obstacles. Ms. Matthews manages to give one very informative glimpses of her characters inner contemplations, without weighing the story down with superfluous angst or repetitive thoughts, that you almost feel yourself in their confidence. I appreciated Evelyn and Malik coming to the realization that your past shapes you, but doesn't have to determine your future. These two people help each other discover their own strengths and counter each others' weaknesses, and learn how they compliment and make the other stronger and better with a deep love and respect. My compliments to Ms. Matthews for great story, and I am eagerly awaiting book 2 of the series. I received an ARC copy of the ebook, but have already preorder purchased the audiobook. Mimi Matthews is always a "must buy" for me!

There is something about forbidden romance that speaks to me, and with this particular book, the added element of an interracial couple had me really excited. Mimi Matthews never fails to create a wonderful story that is both historically accurate and swoonworthy, and to tackle such a subject as the British occupation of India and its impact on Indians is difficult. I felt she navigated it really well, showing things from the Indian perspective that really drove home all the wrongs done to them during this time period. In particular, the hero is mixed race, with a British father and Indian mother, and his father abandoned him and his mother to go back to England, stating that their marriage was never valid. This was a common occurrence during that time that I wasn't aware of, so I really appreciate the author educating us on the subject.

After Evelyn Maltravers' older sister ran off with the neighbor's son, shaming the family and putting the burden of making a good match on Evelyn's shoulders, a trip to London was not only inevitable but necessary. However, to make a good match in London means you must make a good impression from the start, and the one thing Evelyn has going for her is her abilities on a horse. So she makes a plan - appear on Rotten Row in the most fashionable of riding habits, showing off her skills and appealing to the men who can admire them. To do that, she must go to the best habit-maker in London, and he is Ahmad Malik. Ahmad works out of a tailor's shop, and most are yet unaware of his skills. He is skeptical of Evelyn's plan at first, but once he sees her riding, he is inspired to create her something truly special. As they spend more time together, Ahmad grows to like Evelyn even more, and she feels the same way towards him. But in a society where every relationship is scrutinized, they face obstacles as a white woman and Indian man that even love may not be able to overcome.

It's not often that you read a historical romance where the hero is a tailor, let alone a habit-maker for women. That alone had me eager to read on, as I was intrigued by where the author would take it from there. At first, it seemed like Ahmad might be so focused on his work that the romance would be lukewarm at best. He called Evelyn his muse several times, and I kept thinking that it would never go beyond that. Did he really feel affection for her, or was it just her body he wanted to show off his designs? Thankfully Mimi cleared that up fairly early on in the story, and so we get a good amount of sexual tension throughout the early part of the book. Their first kiss is...there are no words, really. It's magical. And when they finally admit their feelings for each other, I had to reach for a tissue. Of course, with an interracial couple, you also have to consider the societal implications of such a match, particularly during that time period, and not everything is romantic in this book. The reader sees how they are treated when they're together, the danger Ahmad faces trying to become successful as a minority, and how difficult it is when love may not be enough. They face struggles along the way, and my heart ached for them both. Thankfully, in romance books, love does conquer most things. Mimi Matthews gives us a satisfying ending that will stay with me for a long time to come.

The next book is one I am eagerly looking forward to, featuring one of Evelyn's friends who suffers from severe anxiety and a former soldier who reluctantly plans to marry her for her money. Already intrigued? Me too!

This is a wonderful Victorian read, that is one of the most well researched ones I have read in a while. The author's note at the end gives away some of the true events/ways of life during that time. I really enjoyed this one but the romances a bit lacking in it. It's low steam but the chemistry and romance is small plot part. I enjoyed the super detailed parts with the dresses, crystals, but it later on takes away from the story. This is also a more diverse HR as the leading man is half Indian so we learn a bit about his life in London as a tailor.

Overall, enjoyed this one but its more historical fiction than romance for those really looking for the romance. I hope we get more this series for the other ladies!

4 stars
1 steam


Thanks to Berkley for a copy of this book!

Mimi Matthews has some of the most beautiful historical writing. She immerses you in both the time and place if her books and draws you to her characters.

I absolutely loved Evie and Ahmad - especially together. I loved how the history of British colonization of India was included in this story. I loved reading about Ahmad's dresses and riding habits. I loved the descriptions of Evie when she is riding her horse. Everything was simply beautiful.

The air of forbidden romance was a great story premise. I thought the pacing was incredible as it kept me turning pages but wasn't rushed. The chemistry was also great. I loved how easily Evie and Ahmad fell into a friendship. I also really appreciated how race and culture were discussed throughout the book.

I'm not a huge fan of magic type stuff in a book so those elements pulled me out of the story a little - but other than that this was a great book.

This book is closed door but with some passionate kissing and Matthews writes this style so well because truthfully it is perfect the way it is.

I received an advanced copy of this book from Berkeley through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

Bluestocking Evelyn is in town for her first season, hoping to make a match that will help her and her younger sisters find financial security. But the men she meets don't stir her interest—except for Ahmad, the tailor who creates her riding habit. Not only is he the wrong class, many in society refuse to look beyond his half-Indian heritage. Will choosing love put her sisters' futures at risk?

I'm always wary of historical romance featuring characters from different classes. But I love Mimi Matthews and I love this cover, so I gave the book a chance. :) It's very well done. It ends up being quite believable (I didn't roll my eyes once). Evelyn is courageous and determined, while Ahmad is cautious but ambitious. I loved them both separately and together. Including elements of Spiritualism and tying those themes to Prince Albert's death made the plot inventive and a lot of fun.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

This is my first Mimi Matthews book and I was impressed! There was so much to love and be absorbed in, from the character chemistry to the rich detail of clothing to the willful personalities to the friendships to the social and racial issues. It all created a complete and satisfying picture.

The Good:
- Evie’s strong ideas and determination. She was a solid character that maintained an innocence without being simpering or overly naive.
- Ahmad’s practicality and talent. His professionalism and slight stoicism gave his growing feelings that much more impact. Loved how it was written.
- Great introductions to secondary characters. Just enough to distinguish them and keep you wanting, what I assume, their features in upcoming books, but also giving them actual value and presence in this book.
- The equine and sartorial descriptions are wonderfully detailed. You can picture each hair and fold of cloth.
- Slow build and believable romance, with swoon worthy heated moments, but nothing scandalous. Closed-Door romance, which can be nice for a change, and absolutely fit for these characters.
- The acknowledgments of race, class, sexism, and vocations of the time. Highlighting all while effortless weaving into the narrative.

The Meh:
- The pacing and plot was steady but the story lacked anything particularly punchy. The result had it dragging at times.
- The descriptions, that are so wonderfully, could also be too long. After the tenth description of a black dress, it gets a bit tired. Understandable to the story, but tired.
- Ahmad’s backstory is introduced in a previous book/series (it’s made clear), and while a valiant effort is made to catch you up in only this one, you still feel the lack/disconnect.

Overall I really enjoyed it and I want more from this new series. And I’m really excited to have a Historical Romance that is “clean” though sensuous to recommend to people.

*I received a free copy from the publisher via netgalley.

This is a nuanced historical romance set in the early 1860s. Evelyn is a young woman starting her first season at a somewhat "advanced" age. She has a plan: to shine on Rotten Row instead of in ballrooms, starting from a position of strength. Her family is impoverished and she has several younger sisters who also require a season to establish themselves comfortably, and she needs to make an impression. To make the biggest impression possible, she goes to the best habit-maker in town - even if he does make habits for famous courtesans. Ahmad, the ambitious habit-maker, sees something unusual in Evelyn, and after observing her ride in the park one morning, agrees to make her several habits. He's an Indian-Englishman, trying to make a good living for himself and his cousin Mira, but he wants to thrive as a popular dressmaker. Ahmad and Evelyn enter into a business partnership, but soon become entangled in other ways, too.

The Siren of Sussex is a closed-door cross-class and inter-racial historical romance that kept me turning the pages and warmed my heart. Much of the setting and people are based in fact, and the author has done considerable research. It touches on a lot of the social issues of the day: worker exploitation, racism, and classism. Also has lots of fun details about fashion and horseback riding. Recommended for all historical romance fans, especially readers who enjoy the Victorian period.

If the Bridgerton's had a cousin, I would imagine it would be Evelyn.

This story highlights many different aspects of the past. The ridiculousness of English society, racism and the most important thing, a strong main female character. Evelyn is looking for a husband, but she has never been the submissive normal society driven girl, she marches to the beat of her own drum, but also has a strong sense of pride in her family name.

Wanting to do the right thing and marry a well to do man to support her and her sisters, she subjects herself to the scrutiny of society, but on her path to marriage she falls in love with her half English, half Indian dressmaker. This is absolutely wonderful as I have always believed that one should follow their heart instead of the crowd.

The story was well built, but the pacing at times was a bit slow for me. It might have been Evelyn throwing herself at Ahmad the dressmaker over and over and his rejection. Although I understood why, there wasn't enough emotion around the actions to move the story forward.

All in all, I really enjoyed this story and as usual am impressed again by Mimi Matthews.

My review will be live on my blog Book Confessions on 1-13-22.

I do enjoy a good historical romance that weaves in the context of the time-period. However, I felt like I was supposed to know more about Ahmad and who he was prior to this story. Turns out he's in another work by the author, so the catchup there wasn't fun.

This was delightful! I can tell the author really knows horses and historical clothing, which meant the details were rich and interesting.

I appreciated how we had a half-Indian love interest, and how the British colonization was examined critically instead of being swept under the rug or ignored.

I loved the side characters and can't wait for their stories. I love that Evie found some female friendships in her journey.

This was a closed-door romance, and I felt the two main characters had wonderful chemistry.

The major drawback for me was that the book felt a bit too long. I loved being with these characters and their world, but by the end I was ready for everything to wrap up. Maybe a chapter or two too long for my taste?

This is my first Matthews book and I definitely want to read more.

The Siren of Sussex begins a new series where a set of friends more at home on horseback than the ballroom will (hopefully) meet their matches. Evelyn Maltravers begins the series, and the plan, by coming to London for a Season in order to find a husband who will in turn support her family. Ever since her older sister ran off with a neighbor the family fortunes have been falling and now Evie has to marry to save the rest of her sisters. It's a tale as old as time in Victorian England, the difference being Evie knows she's nothing special in the ballroom so she plans to make her big splash where she does shine: on horseback. But to really set her apart she needs fabulous riding habits and that sends her to Ahmad Malik, half-Indian, half-English, and all genius when it comes to designing women's clothes. There's a spark between them from the beginning, but plenty of hurdles to overcome before love can win the day.

The Siren of Sussex may be my new favorite of Mimi Matthews' books- books which have always impressed me with excellent writing, detailed descriptions and enjoyable characters. Matthews takes all of this to a new level in Siren with characters willing to look outside of the box to solve their problems, face problems together, change plans as they go, and more. One of the things that always bothers me in books is when characters start the book with a PLAN-whether for their entire life or a set goal- and don't admit that this PLAN can change when they change over the course of the story (until the end of the book at least- I do like a happy ending). Evie starts off with a plan: make her debut on horseback and find someone to marry and support her younger sisters. But when she realizes it's Ahmad she loves, she is completely willing to change plans right away. Then it becomes about how she and Ahmad can be together. Matthews does a good job of not shying away from racism or classism. Evie goes from being a Sussex innocent to discovering how Britain treats India and her people in an excellent scene at Hatchards Books. She also glimpses the lives of seamstresses in sweatshops, the poor living at the docks, and many other worlds that a country gentlewoman would often not be exposed to. Her instinct is always to help, to stand by her man, to work with him towards the greater good.

Ahmad's only goal is to have his own dressmaking shop and that goal is nearly in reach. He has to deal with sexual harassment (and more) from some of his wealthy clients who think he can't say 'no' because of his position. He always feels like he's living on the outside- not truly English, not truly Indian. Evie becomes his muse because he can't admit he loves her, then he wants to do the honorable thing and stay away to not ruin her plans. He's a wonderfully complicated, caring, thoughtful man and easy to see why Evie falls for him. Since Matthews believes in happy endings for her main characters, the challenge is how will they overcome the obstacles in front of them and make things work? It's as complicated as real life, but I found it to have quite the perfect ending.

I can't finish this review without singing the praise to one of the great characters in The Siren of Sussex: fashion. For those of you who don't know, Mimi Matthews has written a nonfiction book, A Victorian Lady's Guide to Fashion and Beauty. Her research into 1861-2 women's fashions comes through each page here- beautiful and detailed without being overdone, much like Ahmad's designs themselves.


I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

This is a delightful Victorian romance between two characters who are both a bit of outsider in the rigid world of society. Evelyn- Evie- must marry well in order to support her family but she's unconventional so she lands on the idea of attracting a suitor through riding. Ahmad, an Anglo-Indian tailor, has experienced discrimination but has risen to the top of his field- and now he's met Evie. Oh these two! They're more than aware of the obstacles in their way to true love but that doesn't much matter. Would that we all had a friend like Evie, who is a constant to her pals. I liked that this was more than a romance- it's also a look at the attitudes about race and class during the period. The atmospherics are terrific (psychics!) and the storytelling will pull you in. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Excellent read.

The Siren of Sussex has a very unique and original storyline which I enjoyed reading. Those who have read the Parish Orphans of Devon series will have already met some of the characters in this book. The characters are strong, passionate and fun to read, with a host of quirky side characters that gave me a real Charles Dickens vibe. I especially liked Ahmad, who knew a male dressmaker could be so hot?! The romance is very passionate and a lot of sensuality (or at least that word is mentioned a lot) but not a lot of romantic dialogue, I would argue it's flirting with the 'clean' status but those who don't mind that will enjoy it. There's also a strong spiritualism theme but again those who don't mind that will really love the story. I'm very much looking forward to the rest of the series and I loved some of the side characters who I think will be the MCs in the upcoming books.

This book grabbed ahold of me so quickly and did not let go. The writing is phenomenal. The dual pov is fantastic. Evie is such a gem and Ahmad? Oh my goodness, how I love that man! Kind and respectful, but brooding and strong. The two’s internal pining for each other was palpable. Their slow-burn affections are absolutely precious and I’ll accept no arguments otherwise. There’s so much chemistry and passionate emotion in this story.

I wasn’t aware that there’d be crossover from a previous series of Mimi’s as this is my first of her work. I now feel that I have to go through her backlist. I’d love the backstory on Ahmad, Mia, and the Finchleys. I can also just tell that I’ll thoroughly enjoy more of Mimi’s writing.

I loved Evie’s group of friends. Based on the sneak peaks at the end and the fact that book two’s blurb is already on Goodreads (YAY!) I imagine that the remainder of the series will all be about them. I can’t get enough of these marvelous bluestocking misfits. I love seeing feminism properly intertwined into historical romance novels. Plus interconnected standalones are my absolute favorite!

This story often touches on racism - specifically how Indians during Victorian England were dehumanized, demonized, exoticized, and infantilized. I greatly respect and appreciate how much personal and emotional work was put into the undertones of this story. The author’s note goes into greater detail regarding their struggle through identity and sense of self. Not to mention as well the details of her efforts to keep things as historically accurate as she good.

"A Popsugar Most Anticipated Romance of 2022!

Victorian high society’s most daring equestrienne finds love and an unexpected ally in her fight for independence in the strong arms of London’s most sought after and devastatingly handsome half-Indian tailor.

Evelyn Maltravers understands exactly how little she's worth on the marriage mart. As an incurable bluestocking from a family tumbling swiftly toward ruin, she knows she'll never make a match in a ballroom. Her only hope is to distinguish herself by making the biggest splash in the one sphere she excels: on horseback. In haute couture. But to truly capture London's attention she'll need a habit-maker who's not afraid to take risks with his designs - and with his heart.

Half-Indian tailor Ahmad Malik has always had a talent for making women beautiful, inching his way toward recognition by designing riding habits for Rotten Row's infamous Pretty Horsebreakers - but no one compares to Evelyn. Her unbridled spirit enchants him, awakening a depth of feeling he never thought possible.

But pushing boundaries comes at a cost and not everyone is pleased to welcome Evelyn and Ahmad into fashionable society. With obstacles spanning between them, the indomitable pair must decide which hurdles they can jump and what matters most: making their mark or following their hearts?"

Here for all the bluestocking girls in the world!

Once in a blue moon, you open a book, begin to read, and get hit by that feeling — that warm glow in your heart that whispers "this one" — and you just know you're in for a treat. That's how I felt starting Mimi Matthews's new Victorian romance, The Siren of Sussex. And I wasn't disappointed. Once again, Matthews has created something truly special, and I'm so excited to share my latest love with you.

Evelyn Maltravers has no fortune and four younger sisters depending on her to make a success of her one London season. Knowing she is at her most confident and appealing on horseback, she makes a daring plan, "proceeding from a position of strength," and focuses on her debut on Rotten Row above her debut in society's ballrooms. Half-Indian dressmaker Ahmad Malik has plans to open his own dress shop, but he needs someone to wear his creations to the season's events and help make his name. In the meantime, he's making the best riding habits in London... until fate deals a blow and he proposes to gamble everything on making Evelyn the best dressed — and most desirable — lady in London. But with her marriage prospects (and by extension, her family's livelihood) and his business entwined, what happens when they fall for each other? Can this unlikely pair overcome circumstances, as well as class and racial differences, to find a happily ever after?

I'll get into the characters and romance in a minute, but first, let's talk fashion. Anyone who's read romance novels knows there's usually some focus on dress. And why not? We're here for fantasy, and part of that is pretty pretty dresses — and occasionally, a sharp suit for the gents! For me, personally, this can get a little old, especially if the author spends a lot of time on it. But here, the fashion is integral to the story. Ahmad's designs shape the way he thinks, give Evelyn confidence, and help drive the plot. So, spending a full paragraph or more on the color and cut of a garment? It makes sense and it's actually interesting! Matthews clearly did her research, so the designs and discussions around them are informed and period-appropriate. If you've read Matthews before, this attention to detail won't surprise you.

Likewise, Matthews is an enthusiastic rider and horse-lover, and just as her fashion research enriches Ahmad's characterization, her experience here adds to Evelyn's portrayal. The novel is dedicated to Matthews's late Andalusian dressage horse, Centelleo, and her love for him shines through in Evelyn's relationship with her own equine companion, Hephaestus. The scenes on horseback are more than the typical hand-wavey "she is an excellent horsewoman" type, as we actually see how Evelyn thinks through her commands and works with Hephaestus — and how she carries this mindset into others areas of her life, drawing on her experience working with Hephaestus as a partner as she learns to partner with Ahmad for other purposes.

Which brings us to the romance! I love that, while the attraction is immediate, the relationship itself is based on friendship and mutual respect as much as on physical desire. Evelyn and Ahmad see things in each other that others overlook and encourage each other at every step, whether it's a personal or professional matter. Watching them work together and grow in trust and affection was so satisfying... and yes, incredibly swoony.

Because there are so many social barriers between them and because Matthews and her characters don't take any of those lightly, this is a true slow burn romance (my favorite, done right!). Every touch and glance is guaranteed to have you sighing and screaming, "Just kiss already!" — even as you completely understand why things aren't progressing faster. But watching them work their way toward each other is what makes their eventual coming together so sweet and satisfying, as they learn to understand where the other is coming from, both geographically and emotionally. Their happily ever after feels earned in every sense. Evelyn and Ahmad are already among my favorite characters and favorite couples of 2022, and with the book releasing on January 11, that sets the bar high and early for the rest of the year.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for providing an e-ARC for an honest review.