Why am I passionate about this?
I grew up surrounded by a library of dusty vintage novels, so perhaps it wasn’t that surprising that I went on to write my own gaslamp fantasy influenced by English folklore and Victorian heroines. I love historical novels that provoke wonder, and magical novels that are rich with history, and (blame it on being an only child?) most of all I love a female protagonist I’d want to have tea with.
Christina's book list on gaslamp heroines with tea and adventures
Why did Christina love this book?
I love Jane Austen, and I also enjoy a swashbuckling sea-faring adventure, and I love it when the heroine is a real lady who cares about manners and ethics and has recognisable struggles. This book ticks all these boxes for me!
Elinor is ignored by her family until the day she develops superpowers as an Extraordinary Scorcher. Before she can be married off to the highest bidder, she presents herself to the Royal Navy to help them take down Napoleon’s ships. This novel has a sweet romance with a truly gentlemanly gentleman.
1 author picked Burning Bright as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.
In 1812, Elinor Pembroke wakes to find her bedchamber in flames—and extinguishes them with a thought. As an Extraordinary, gifted with powerful magical talent, she is respected and feared, but her father intends to control her and her talent by forcing her to marry where he insists. Trapped between the choices of a loveless marriage or living penniless and dependent on her parents, Elinor takes a third path: she joins the Royal Navy. Assigned to serve under Captain Miles Ramsay aboard the frigate Athena, she turns her fiery talent on England’s enemies, vicious pirates preying on English ships in the…