This sequel focuses on Felicity, a bright girl with a brilliant mind who dreams of nothing more than becoming a doctor. But when chasing down her idol who could make her aspirations a reality leads her to an estranged childhood friend, Felicity's dreams are put on hold for another whirlwind adventure of magic and piracy.
While Felicity is incredibly intelligent, what really makes her character so genuine her painful awkwardness. Her discomfort in social settings and her book-nerdy excitability makes her so relatable, but also leads her into some sticky situations. From wedding crashing (in every sense of the word) to calling out a room full of stuffy old white men on their sexist rules, she is not one to be messed with.
"because women don't have to be men's equals to be considered contenders; they have to be better."
Given the era the book is set, Lee does an excellent job of portraying Felicity's Asexuality. Although the word is never said (just as the word Bisexual isn't said for Monty in The Gentleman's Guide - the word didn't exist back then), it is made very clear that this is a part of who Felicity is, and that the want or need for a partner is not necessary for an individual to lead a fulfilling life.
Core to this novel are the themes of friendship and womanhood. Alongside Felicity, we also get a glimpse into the lives of Sim, a Muslim pirate, and Johannah, a high society socialite. With these three characters, we get to see all the different ways one can be a woman. I love that despite their different ways of presenting themselves, these girls are not portrayed as any less than one another, not for their sharpness or their frilliness.
"Not ridiculous, I correct myself. Softness can be an armor, even if it isn't my armor."
A fun tale of travel and adventure, The Lady's Guide is a worthy sequel that stands alone from its predecessor. But, if you're also missing a bit of Monty and Percy, well, you won't be let down!
Thank you to Edelweiss for providing me with this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
★★★★☆
YA Historical Fantasy
The Montague Siblings
Asexual protagonist
Blood, violence
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