The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy

In 18th century Europe, Felicity Montague pursues her dream of becoming a physician despite the period's strict limitations on women in medicine. After being rejected from medical schools, she embarks on a journey from England to continental Europe in search of an opportunity to study under a renowned doctor. Her quest becomes entangled with an unlikely team of women, including her former best friend Johanna and a mysterious German noblewoman with possible pirate connections. The adventure leads them through European cities and onto the high seas as they chase both scientific discovery and dangerous secrets. The narrative combines historical elements with action and adventure, touching on topics from early medical science to natural history. Felicity must navigate not only physical challenges but also complex relationships and societal expectations. This historical YA novel examines gender roles, ambition, and the courage to defy convention. The story raises questions about friendship, loyalty, and what it means to pursue one's calling regardless of obstacles.

Readers note this sequel focuses more on medicine, science and asexual representation compared to the first book's romance. Many appreciate the feminist themes and strong character development of Felicity, with several reviews highlighting her determination to pursue medicine despite societal barriers. Liked: - Strong ace representation - Historical medical details - Adventure storyline - Female friendships - Diverse cast of characters Disliked: - Slower pacing than first book - Less humor and wit - Some found Felicity stubborn/unlikeable - Romance takes backseat Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (41,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (500+ ratings) BookishFirst: 4.4/5 (200+ ratings) Common reader quote: "This book perfectly captures being an ambitious woman in a time when women weren't allowed to be ambitious." - Goodreads reviewer Some note it works as standalone but recommend reading the first book for full character context.

These Rebel Skies by Sophia Delorum A girl travels aboard an airship while mastering the art of capturing spirits in bottles during an alternate historical adventure.

A Lady's Guide to Fortune-Hunting by Sophie Irwin A woman in Regency England navigates society through calculated schemes to secure her family's financial future.

The Gentleman's Guide to Getting Lucky by Mackenzi Lee A companion novel follows Monty and Percy through their romantic escapades across 18th-century Europe.

That Dark Infinity by Kate Pentecost A cursed immortal bodyguard protects a young alchemist as they embark on a quest through a medieval fantasy realm.

The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi A team of treasure hunters uses magic and science to execute heists in 19th-century Paris.

🌟 Author Mackenzi Lee worked as a bookseller at an independent bookstore while writing this novel, which helped inform her understanding of young adult literature and market trends. 🌟 The book tackles themes of women in medicine during the 18th century, when female physicians were extremely rare and often faced persecution or accusations of witchcraft. 🌟 This novel is the sequel to "The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue" but follows a different sibling, Felicity Montague, as the protagonist. 🌟 Throughout the story, the main character Felicity is asexual and aromantic, making this one of relatively few YA historical novels featuring ace representation. 🌟 The book incorporates real historical figures into its narrative, including Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, who was instrumental in bringing smallpox inoculation to Western medicine.