Velvet

Velvet works as a maid in a Victorian London steamworks in 1900, dreaming of a better life and position. After a chance encounter with a medium named Madame Savoya, she accepts a new job as lady's maid in the medium's household. The story follows Velvet as she enters the mysterious world of séances and spiritualism in London, where grieving families seek connections with their deceased loved ones. Her position allows her to observe both the public performances and private moments of Madame Savoya's operation. As Velvet learns more about the spiritualist trade, she must navigate challenging questions about truth, deception, and morality in Victorian society. Her growing relationship with a young man named Charlie further complicates her situation and forces her to make difficult choices. This historical novel examines faith, skepticism and the human desire to believe in something beyond the physical world. Through Velvet's journey, the story explores class divisions and opportunities for women in turn-of-the-century London.

Readers describe this YA historical novel as a quick, educational read that effectively portrays life in 17th century London perfume houses. Many note the detailed research into period perfume-making techniques and medicinal practices. Readers appreciated: - Rich sensory descriptions of scents and perfume creation - Accurate historical details about London plague years - The protagonist's growth from naive girl to skilled perfumer Common criticisms: - Plot becomes predictable - Romance feels rushed and underdeveloped - Several reviewers wanted more depth to supporting characters Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon UK: 4.1/5 (50+ ratings) Amazon US: 3.9/5 (30+ ratings) "The perfume-making scenes transported me right into a 17th century workshop" - Goodreads reviewer "Characters needed more development to make me truly care about their fates" - Amazon reviewer

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🌿 Mary Hooper extensively researched Victorian-era perfume making and herbalism, visiting historical apothecaries and consulting period documents to ensure accuracy in her descriptions. 🔮 The practice of "spirit mediums" described in the book reached its peak in Victorian London, with an estimated 100,000 practicing mediums by 1880. 🌹 Many of the perfume recipes mentioned in the book are authentic to the period, including the use of ambergris (whale secretions) and civet (from civet cats) as fixatives. 👻 The character of Madame Savoya was inspired by several real Victorian mediums, including Florence Cook and Catherine Wood, who were later exposed as frauds. 🏰 The book's setting, Raven's Court, was influenced by the famous Victorian mansion Strawberry Hill House, known for its Gothic revival architecture and connection to supernatural tales.