Series: A League of Extraordinary Women
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hey, fellow book lovers. Hope this Wednesday is going well for you. Today, I want to chat about the delightful literary escapade that is Evie Dunmore’s “The Gentleman’s Gambit.” This historical romance is the perfect blend of smarts, sass, and sizzle that will have you turning the pages faster than you can say suffragist!

I’m giving this one a solid four stars, and here’s why.

If you read earlier novels in the series you may remember Catriona Campbell, our bookish suffragist heroine with a lot on her plate. Well friends, We finally learn more about her. She lives in an ailing estate and has a bout of writer’s block. It’s also a tumultuous time for England’s women’s rights. Just when she thinks life couldn’t get any more complicated, in walks Elias Khoury, a distractingly attractive colleague with a mission of his own. From the get-go, the dynamic between Catriona and Elias is magnetic, and Dunmore effortlessly sets the stage for a romance that promises to be as intellectually stimulating as it is heart-fluttering.

I’d be remiss if I did not mention that one of the things that makes “The Gentleman’s Gambit” and the series as a whole, stand out is its unapologetic celebration of strong, bookish, and independent female protagonists. Catriona Campbell is a suffragist with dreams of romance, and the way her desires are skillfully woven into the story adds a layer of depth that romance enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate. It’s refreshing to see a character who’s not just defined by her romantic pursuits but is also deeply committed to her beliefs and work.

Now friends, Elias Khoury, on the other hand, may be tall, dark, and handsome, but he is not your typical leading man. He might have wheedled his way into Professor Campbell’s circle under false pretenses, but as the layers of his character unfold, so does the complexity of his motives. The clash between his mission and the unexpected feelings that arise for Catriona makes for a deliciously intricate plot.

The forced proximity in Oxford’s hallowed halls is the perfect stage for the brewing chemistry between these two contrasting personalities. It’s a slow burn that Evie Dunmore masterfully orchestrates, and as the tension escalates, a risky new game begins. Watching Catriona and Elias navigate their feelings while putting their hearts and dreams at stake is a journey you won’t want to miss my friends.

While I’m withholding that last star, it’s more of a personal preference than a flaw in the storytelling. “The Gentleman’s Gambit” is a smart, entertaining, and emotionally charged historical romance that will leave you with a satisfied sigh by the end. So, get comfortable, grab a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and immerse yourself in the world of Catriona and Elias. Happy reading friends!