My Review:
“A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile" by Angela Bell
is a fantastic new favorite historical fiction book with whimsical steampunk vibes!
This was just incredible! The author says this book is like “Little Women”
meets “Inspector Gadget.” This is the
first in the “Daughters of Genius Society” series and has some connections to
the author’s previous book, “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure.” “The Daughters
of Genius Society" is a women’s club of books, tea, and blue stockings on the
outside—concealing an elite team of lady inspectors. Our heroine, Margaret
Kingsley, is an ambulatory wheelchair user who is also a gadget inventor for
the D.O.G.S. I have never seen the experience of chronic pain/illness described
so true to life. Living with chronic illness and pain myself, I almost seemed
at times to be reading my own experience on the page and have never felt so
seen in a book. I highlighted so many parts and was encouraged in my own pain
and faith journey. I also loved that the FMC is older than is typical in this
genre. There is also mental health representation, awesome family relationships,
and adorable animal companions. I love how the author shows the beauty of God, and
His comfort and sustaining grace. The faith content is awesome. The main
character prays, leans on the Lord and gives thanks in hardships. The story and
action are amazing, with an invention gone out of control and a daring chase
that ensues. Our hero deals with panic attacks and loves music. I love how he
worshipped God with his music. The romance was ever so sweet! I cannot wait for
the next book in the series! Do yourself a favor and read this inspiring, fun,
and whimsical story! You will not be disappointed.
Content: I give this book a PG rating. See trigger warnings
below for examples of the content.
TW: anxiety and panic attacks; past miscarriages.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest
opinion.
