The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 7 (The Unselected Journals #7) by Beth Brower

 

Summary (from the publisher): "The image of Pandora's Box being opened by my own hand flashed across my mind. A sobering and somewhat disappointing realization when one understands they are their own worst enemy. "The Year is 1884 and Emma M. Lion has, at long last, gained her majority. Entering a golden age of friendship with Pierce, Islington, and Hawkes, Emma is confident she will manage whatever comes her way. It is The Season she must help Arabella secure a husband, while navigating the threat of Aunt Eugenia, the unflagging adoration of Charles Goddard, and the amusing unpredictability of St. Crispian's. But the secrets of her trusted friends are what might very well bring about disaster. Emma M. Lion offers up her Unselected Journals, however self-incriminating they may be. Armed with wit and a sideways amusement, Emma documents the curious realities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House. Readers have compared The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion to Jane Austen, P.G. Wodehouse, L. M. Montgomery, and Jean Webster.

Review: Emma M. Lion continues recording her fascinating life, full of intrigues but increasingly less filled with woe. Her friendship with Pierce, Islington, and Hawkes continues but at least, one of the friendships promises to be something more. Meanwhile, despite finally reaching her majority and becoming queen of her own domain, circumstances lead to her having a guardian once again, albeit largely in name only. 

These books are filled with the best wit, banter, and funny intrigues. You truly never know what Emma M. Lion will be up to next! Diving in a fountain for coins? Dodging suitors at a ball? Soliciting the shady Jack to provide a fake chaperone? Falling asleep on her vicar's lap on a bench in the middle of the night? Being caught in a compromising position by her butler? The list goes on. 

Emma has lost many people and suffered many hardships in her life. Despite it all, Emma remains plucky and, on the whole, cheerful. Despite her woeful education, she still soldiers on attempting to read and learn as much as possible. I especially love that rank and wealth mean little to Emma. She loves and respects everyone equally and their character and behavior matter much more. Sad this is the last book published - for now. I will be eagerly anticipating the eighth book in this series, as many plot points are left open ended at this conclusion. 

Stars: 4

Related Titles: 

• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 1 by Beth Brower
  
• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 2 by Beth Brower
  
• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 3 by Beth Brower
  
• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 4 by Beth Brower
  
• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 5 by Beth Brower
• The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 6 by Beth Brower