in some ways, this was almost exactly what i wanted it to be. imteresting characters, bickering, romance, a mystery (although not a locked room kind of one which i love), a feminist female sleuth and of course an interesting setting, great voice acting in the audiobook. however, sadly it is also very much a product of its time, and therefore very, very racist. it is basically not better than books i have read that were actually written in the victorian period. most of the poc characters don't have names, their skin colours are regularly compared to hot beverages, they don't look after their children, are lazy and unintelligent, the men need to be civilized and the women saved. it really is a shame.
because i did love many of the characters. i'm not a fan of emerson, nothing against stubbornness and some hate to love, but the misogyny and violence really wasn't necessary. but amelia and eveline and their friendship (amelia asking her what sex is like when they first meet - hilarious!), the way the position of women in victorian society is reflected (although the novel does fall back on very stereotypical tropes at times), walter, who is simply a dear, and lucas, who makes a great villain.
the mystery was nice as well, although i'm still not quite sure how that scheme was supposed to have them reach their goals? but the solution was quite satisfying, even though i had spoilered myself, sadly.
i will certainly go on with this series, although i do feel quite uncomfortable with the racist undertones.