Tressa (Wishful Endings)'s Reviews > Solving Sophronia

SOLVING SOPHRONIA is the beginning of a series about a group of women who start as acquaintances, but become friends when they form the Blue Orchid Society. They each have their own dreams and find society in general, particularly men, are not approving of such, but they decide to set goals to achieve their dreams regardless. This first story focuses on Sophronia and her desire to become a news journalist. She curiously becomes involved in a murder investigation against the lead detective's wishes, but they find that they work well together. There is some wonderful banter, a slowly-building romance, a contrast of classes, and a murder mystery all rolled into this delightfully entertaining story!

After reading Emmeline, the prequel novella, I wasn't sure what to expect from this story. It definitely was a bit different, and I expect each of these stories will be in this series because they each will focus on a different woman in the society who each have their own personalities, talents, and challenges. I also want to note that you don't need to have read Emmeline to enjoy this story. I think they will each stand well on their own.

I loved Sophie! She was intelligent, kind, and talented in so many ways. I also loved Jonathan! He was just a great guy who put his life on the line as a police detective every day. I appreciated the author not ignoring the difference in class between them and how they both had their own vulnerabilities. It made them human and relatable. I loved seeing Sophie and Jonathan clash at the beginning, but how their relationship changed to one of respect and friendship, and then to love. They're surrounded by a great group of characters and I felt like not one of them came across flat. The story moved at the perfect pace, with a mystery weaved throughout, and a slightly insane villain to bring the story to a climax. I also loved the very sweet ending.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a marvelously executed story with lovable characters, sweet romance, and an entertaining plot. Highly recommended if you enjoy sweet Victorian romantic suspense! I'm very much looking forward to finding out more about each of the ladies in Sophie's group in subsequent books!

Content: Some violence, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.