The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion is a series by author Beth Brower that has quickly drawn me in. I am completely invested into this humorous and quirky world set in London in the late 1800s. The story revolves around Emma, a clever and independent young woman, whose witty observations and personal growth anchor this captivating narrative. Brower brings beautiful charm and attention to detail to this historical fiction series, blending humor with rich storytelling.
Brower describes her goal for this book as offering “readers a format with a twist. Something fresh. Just a touch different.” The setting makes you think of Jane Austen, while the voice makes you feel like you are watching Gilmore Girls with your best friend. This review will explore the themes, age suitability, discussion questions, and why it deserves a place on your bookshelf.
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What is The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion About?
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion follows its titular character, Emma, as she navigates the social expectations and personal challenges of Victorian England. After losing her parents, she finds herself living with her eccentric Cousin Archibald and under the societal guidance of her formidable Aunt Eugenia in the slightly odd neighborhood of St. Crispian’s. Her plans for a quiet, studious life are frequently disrupted. Through humorous misunderstandings and personal revelations, Emma records her daily life in her journals, offering readers a glimpse into her unorthodox world. The series beautifully captures both the elegance and absurdities of the time period, blending historical detail with modern wit that keeps readers engaged.
Who is the Author of The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion?
Beth Brower, the talented author behind The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, has created a series that resonates with fans of classics and historical fiction novels. On her website she shares about her love for reading that began at a young age. She says that her desire to create stories grew as she was learning to read them.
Brower graduated with a degree in literary studies and has many stories to share, which is excellent news for her readers. She lives with her husband who is a chemist and they have books in every room of their house.
Why You Should Read The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion
If you’re seeking a series with heart, humor, and a strong female lead, The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion checks all the boxes. Here are a few reasons to pick it up:
- Unique Format: The journal-style storytelling feels personal and immersive.
- Victorian-Era Charm: Rich period details and clever social commentary transport readers to 19th-century England.
- Compelling Character Development: Emma’s growth throughout the series is both relatable and inspiring.
- Offbeat Characters: As you read through each book, the cast of characters grows. Each one is unique and adds something special to Emma’s story.
How Many Books Are in the Emma M. Lion Series?
At the point of this writing, Beth Brower written eight books for the Emma M. Lion series. According to the author’s website, the Emma M. Lion series is structured like a television show, with each “season” covering about a year of Emma’s life. The first season spans five volumes, covering March to December of 1883. Each volume typically covers two months, so future seasons are expected to have around six volumes each. The series is designed with multiple layers of storytelling, including arcs within individual volumes, seasonal arcs, and an overarching story arc, leaving plenty of room for twists, turns, and character development along the way.
Is The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Suitable for Young Adults?
While primarily aimed at adult readers, the clean humor and thoughtful storytelling make this series suitable for mature young adults interested in classic stories or historical fiction with a strong literary voice. After reading the first six books so far, I find them to be very clean with no spice, bad language, or inappropriate behavior.
Book Club Discussion Questions
Emma M. Lion is an excellent choice for book clubs, offering plenty of discussion points around themes of personal growth, societal norms, and the role of humor in storytelling. Here are some thought-provoking topics for your next meeting:
- Personal Growth: How does Emma’s character evolve throughout the novel? What key moments shape her journey?
- Humor and Wit: How does the author use humor to explore deeper themes? Are there moments where comedy adds emotional depth?
- Historical Context: How does the setting influence the story? What elements of late 19th-century life stand out the most?
- Comparisons: How does Emma M. Lion compare to other historical fiction novels with strong female leads?
Where Can I Purchase The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion?
You can find The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion on major online retailers such as Amazon and Bookshop.org, as well as through your local bookstore.
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Other Books by Beth Brower
Final Thoughts
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion by Beth Brower is an enjoyable addition to any book lover’s collection. With its Victorian-era charm, memorable characters, and engaging storytelling, it will be one of my favorites to recommend for years to come. If you’re looking for your next captivating read, this series is highly recommended!
Have you read The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear what you think of Emma’s story!
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