The Companion

Maddie Vargas takes a position as companion to the elderly Miss Olsen at her remote estate in upstate New York. The job seems straightforward - provide care and companionship while pursuing her own writing career in a peaceful setting. At the estate, Maddie meets the groundskeeper Lucy Yeoh, who maintains the property's extensive gardens. The two women form a connection as they navigate their roles within the household and their growing attraction to each other. Strange occurrences begin to suggest there may be more to Miss Olsen and the estate than initially apparent. Maddie must determine whether pursuing answers about the mysteries she encounters is worth potentially jeopardizing her position and her burgeoning relationship with Lucy. The novel explores themes of isolation, trust, and the ways people can find connection and purpose in unexpected places. Through its Gothic elements and romance storyline, it examines how the past influences the present and the courage required to embrace uncertainty.

Readers note The Companion delivers a slow-burn romance in a historical setting. Many point to the representation of queer and trans characters living happily in a historical context, rather than facing tragedy. The domestic focus and gentle pacing resonated with romance readers seeking comfort reads. Readers liked: - Historical details and research around herbalism - Portrayal of support between LGBTQ+ characters - No homophobia or transphobia in the narrative Common criticisms: - Plot lacks conflict or stakes - Relationship development moves too slowly - Limited external story elements Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (180+ ratings) BookBub: 4.1/5 (90+ ratings) "Like a warm blanket of acceptance and love" - Goodreads review "Needed more plot to drive the story forward" - Amazon review "A sweet romance but too slow-paced for my taste" - BookBub review

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🌟 E.E. Ottoman is one of the few openly transgender authors writing historical romance featuring transgender characters 🌿 The book explores period-accurate medicinal gardening and herbalism, reflecting practices common in 19th century New England 📚 Unlike many historical romances, The Companion features a slow-burn relationship that develops through shared intellectual interests rather than dramatic conflicts 🏠 The story takes place in a Gothic mansion in rural New York state, drawing inspiration from the architectural style popular during the American Victorian era 💕 The novel breaks traditional romance conventions by featuring two transgender main characters who find acceptance and love without their identity being a source of conflict