The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, vol. 1 and vol 2

 The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, vol. 1 and vol 2

Reviewed By  Grasshopper2       July 15, 2026

 

Author  Beth Brower

Distributor:      Bloomsbury AU
ISBN:                 9781037210822
Publisher:         Bloomsbury Publishing
Release Date:   30 Jul 2026. Ebook (Epub & Mobi)  

   Website:   https://www.bloomsbury.com/au/unselected-journals-of-emma-m-lion-vol-1-9781037210822/

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What a charming breath of fresh air these two slim novels bring from Beth Brower. The story is indeed set out in a journal style and begins on the 5th of March 1883, in London. Emma M Lion has just returned home from a rather unpleasant stay for three years with her rather unpleasant Aunt.

At first, we follow her journey as she arrives at her home, Lapis Lazuli House, which has been managed by her uncle. Emma does not gain control of the house until she reaches her majority. She is shocked to find that she has been relegated to the garret, dusty and dirty. It becomes clear that her uncle has been spending the house allowance freely, and bitter arguments occur.

However, as each day passes Emma works on planning her future with the accountant, meeting her friends and continuing to read and educate herself. What makes The Unselected Journals of Emma M Lion vol1 and 2 a joy to read is Emma’s personality and the way it is conveyed by the author.

She is sharp, witty, and rather intolerant of society’s rules. There is the case of the scar on her uncle’s face, caused by Emma throwing a teapot. He is such a crook. Then the author chooses to deviate from Emma narrating her days, to writing in the third person. Emma also has many asides, which are humorous. You feel close to the character as her story unfolds.

Another charming twist is the place of St Crispian’s, where Emma lives. There is a map showing the layout of the town and her street, Whereabout Lane. Strange things happen in this town; so strange they have become part of life, and a committee manages the outcomes of these occurrences. Oh yes, newcomers may scoff but ultimately accept that they too are not immune from the mystery.

This is a wonderful light immersion into a young woman’s world and how with intelligence, and humour she manages her day-to-day life.

Just a sheer joy to read!

Fiction, General, Historical, Humour