Review: The Unassuming Curator by Sian Ann Bessey

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Emily Norton loves nothing more than losing herself within the pages of a good book. But the solitary pastime is poor preparation for participating in the dreaded London Season. Her trepidation over formally entering Society is all-encompassing, until she stumbles upon an enigmatic gentleman digging up flowers in a hedgerow. Before she can learn his name or the reason for his unusual activity, however, she is whisked into a carriage bound for London.

Henry Buckland has a secret: he cannot discern the difference between certain colors. It’s a particularly difficult disability for the curator of natural history at the British Museum, but no more challenging than his repeated attempts to outmaneuver the machinations of the town’s most notorious matchmaker. At his parents’ dinner party, he receives assistance in outwitting the persistent busy-body from a surprising source: the intriguing young lady he met on the country lane. As Emily and Henry become formally acquainted, they discover a shared love of science and nature that makes them ideally suited. However, Henry is not alone in his admiration for the young woman. As the competition to woo Emily escalates, so, too, do tensions at the museum. When an unexpected danger threatens Henry’s livelihood―and life―it appears he may not have the chance to win Emily’s heart after all.

My Review

This book featured a sweet and gentle romance with unique characters that are well-suited to each other. I enjoyed the early history of color blindness and how Henry didn't let that prevent him from pursuing his career. He and Emily bond over his work with plants and creatures- one local variety of flower in particular. Her understated intelligence and genuine interest in learning about a variety of subjects attract him from the beginning. There isn't conflict in their slowly developing relationship; the drama is brought from outside influences- other suitors, politics at the museum, and a surprisingly dangerous turn of events. A wonderful addition to the Georgian Gentlemen series!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

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