A Most Peculiar Courtship by Mihwa Lee:

3 stars

Amelia Thornton is a woman who has overcome great difficulties; as the illegitimate daughter of a nobleman, she worked in a textile factory in her teens. It was there that she was injured and lost part of her leg from the knee down, only to later rise as the editor of a newspaper. What she hasn’t managed to overcome is her growing attraction to the Marquess of Hereford, a notorious rake she has every reason to doubt.

A Most Peculiar Courtship is not the best place to look for historical accuracy; this is an unapologetically fluffy romance. The premise is wildly implausible, the history more suggestive than authentic, and the prose occasionally incorporates phrasing that pulled me out of the period. For all that, the central relationship is enjoyable, the heroine’s arc is satisfying, and the story offers a light, escapist read with a thread of danger.

Amelia is compelling in her boldness, refusing to accept the prescribed limitations on women, particularly a disabled woman. She wants to make a difference while being able to defend herself. Charles, her marquess, seems to only want a worthy focus for his more tender feelings to completely reform. He’s protective, supportive, and passionate.

A Most Peculiar Courtship is a good choice if you’re looking for a lighthearted, romantic, spicy vacation from real-world stress. It’s fun; it’s easy to read; it’s charming.