Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

I’m loving historical romances with trans characters so much. I loved this art style. The faces they would make made me burst out laughing. It was also extremely frustrating. The “just kiss already” was so strong here. Elenor and George just danced (literally) around each other for so long. I can understand why they were both afraid to say anything though. It was so cute when Elenor was saying all she needed was George and Charlotte. She didn’t want to fall in love and lose either of them.

George was a super interesting character. I’m also not sure what they identified as fully, but they went by they/them in the beginning. Seeing a trans character in high society England was refreshing. Eleanor and Charlotte were always by their side and were always referring to them the way they wanted them too.

Elenor went back and forth so much. She was so sweet and thoughtful but then she’d be insulting and say awful things. She also acted horrible with Charlotte getting married. I know she probably thought she was doing what was best, but it was so cruel. Also when Charlotte told Elenor off for not understanding that she is treated differently because she is biracial, I was like YES! Her character development was appreciated.

This was a very enjoyable story and I really hope to read more from this creator!!

An absolutely delight of a graphic novel, perfect for fans of The Prince and the Dressmaker, with historically accurate LGBTQUIA+ representation. The backmatter provides addition historical context and resources.
The characters are likeable and memorable. The art is well-done.

A queer take on Jane Austen stories all mixed together?? Oh heck yes. This was an absolute delight to read as a fan of queer romances and Jane Austen! The story follows George: born as a "daughter" but identifying as not, and they've inherited their father's manor and estate... and are realizing their own sexuality and attraction for their best friend Eleanor. Eleanor has always wanted to do everything "right" and yet she's never found the right boy she's interested in, however she is very interested in her best friend George. From dealing with balls, societal expectations, suitors, and estates, romance will bloom and love will find a way! The story mixes a bit of Pride and Prejudice with Emma, and it's just so cute and sweet and I loved the queer take on it. It's a must read for sure.

Release Date: Oct 8,2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books | HarperAlley for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

I shall never fall in love ... okay maybe just a little <3

This book was very intriguing as it was progressive with showing us LGBQT+ characters living in that era (as they did exist and did have to hide) but the fact that we saw behind the scenes and also some acceptance was refreshing. This book also shows that it wasn't all progressive and accepting; the slave trade was still ongoing (if not having in Britain anymore) and the treatment of Charlotte was poor in many situations - mico racism/aggression. Because shouldn't she be grateful for charity and people doing the bare minimum -_-, oh many scenes boiled my blood for her. I loved her as you can tell.
The delusion, that Eleanor had about situations and how people had to do certain things right; like her cousin Charlotte marrying someone else and staying away from the farmer who could tarnish her prospects was very hypocritical. I was thrilled when Goeotge called her out because she had been very unkind to many people.- she was set in her ways.
The growth was a lovely thing to witness in her and George as they progressed with figuring out their comforts and life and exploring their sexuality. Charlotte's happiness was honestly my favourite thing and while she was a secondary main character, her story was my favourite - her reality-checking Eleanor was also my favourite.

The illustrations are done beautifully and comically. I love it when artists just show how incredible they are and don't shy away from making the characters and surroundings to details and ALSO not being afraid to go wacky and fun with odd cartoon experiences and panels.

The added history facts and questions, paired with the character illustration are also such a unique and appreciated bonus.