Gosh I just love finding swoon worthy debut novels!

Set in the 1850s, Violet Goodwin has worked hard to become a nurse when most women did not consider having employment. She travels to London as she’s promised to be a companion to her cousin Catherine for her second season. Which is fine with her, as she has no plans to marry herself.

Alistair Crawford has retired as a sea Captain, down on his luck and trying to start anew with developing a shipping trade company. But when he runs into Violet, whom he met three years before at a party, he is reminded of their undeniable chemistry and almost kiss.

I LOVED this! There is nothing better than a strong, intelligent, and courageous FMC in a historical romance novel.

Cannot wait for Book 2 in this series!

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, Kay K. Denner, and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel. All opinions are my own.

Sometimes all you need is a good old-fashioned historical romance — and this one absolutely hits the spot!
The story follows Violet, an American in London who, after a personal tragedy, sets out to study medicine and become a nurse. Then there’s Alistair, the second son of a marquess and a former navy officer, carrying the emotional weight of his experiences with the East India Company. They met once, three years ago, and now fate brings them back into each other’s lives.

What really makes this book stand out is that, beyond the clear pull between them, both characters are fully fleshed-out individuals with dreams and goals of their own. They feel like real people, and their choices genuinely matter. That, to me, is the book’s biggest strength. Alistair is probably my favorite type of hero — a little brooding, yet with a great heart. Violet, on the other hand, is truly a heroine who wants to forge her own path. And while she does, to some extent, receive a fairly traditional happily ever after, her independent mindset still feels convincing given the time period.

Speaking of romance, it’s marketed as a second-chance romance, and that’s true… to an extent. It’s not the usual take on the trope. The characters want to be together, but because of their personal ambitions and emotional struggles, they drift apart — only to find their way back to each other again. The tension between them is wonderfully written, and the gradual shift from physical attraction to genuine love feels authentic and well-paced.

Beyond the romance, the book also touches on a range of other themes — from the harsh realities of Victorian life to identity, sexuality, and medicine. I do wish it had been just a bit longer; some of these threads could have used more space, and it would’ve given the romance more time to develop as well. But honestly, that’s a minor complaint — especially knowing there's a sequel coming, with some of the characters returning.

Definitely one to pick up if you're in the mood for something heartfelt and atmospheric!

A great romance! Violet does not put up with Alaistair's self-flagellation and is an overall baddie. Cannot wait for the sequel!

Review coming soon. Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advance review copy. Opinions are fully mine