The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion: Vol. 2

I can't get enough of this series! It's funny, clever, and fascinating, especially if you enjoy reading about the Victorian era and its social constraints.

Emma still resides in the garret of Lapis Lazuli House and faces the upcoming London social season with her Aunt Eugenia and all her demands. A new character is introduced, and life in St. Crispian's continues.

This volume is only 177 pages, but it's packed with wit and humor. Emma is fierce, independent, clever, and resourceful, which makes it hard not to get invested in her future. This is a fabulous series, and I'm recommending it to everyone!

"I was sitting at my desk reading, with a cup of tea, my windows flung open, when I heard The Tenant enter his garret, just on the other side of the wall from myself."

The Year is 1883 and Emma M. Lion has returned to her London neighborhood of St. Crispian's. But Emma's plans for a charmed and studious life are sabotaged by her eccentric Cousin Archibald, her formidable Aunt Eugenia, and the slightly odd denizens of St. Crispian's.

Emma M. Lion offers up her Unselected Journals, however self-incriminating they may be, which comprise a series of volumes. Armed with wit and a sideways amusement, Emma documents the curious realities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House.

Readers have compared Beth Brower's writing to Jane Austen, Oscar Wilde, P.G. Wodehouse, and L. M. Montgomery.

Penguin Publishing Group | September 23, 2026 | 177 Pages | ISBN: 978-0143139713

1. The story is told through Emma's journals. How did you feel about experiencing the book through her first-person narrative? How does it compare to other books with the same format?

2. How does Volume 2 compare to the first book? Is there anything you would change or add to the storyline?

3. Emma's aunt, Eugenia, requires her to attend certain society events for the benefit of her cousin Arabella. How does this relationship put pressure on Emma? Can she stay true to herself? Are there benefits?

4. Arabella and Emma have different views on marriage. How do these views align with women today? What considerations should you weigh before making a judgment? What would you do?

5. Emma is encouraged to be bold and creative with her finances. What limitations did she face as a woman in the 1880s compared to women today?

6. Emma's friendship with Mr. Pierce goes against societal rules. How do you feel about their friendship? Where do you see it going?

7. Why do you think the smuggled copy of "Jane Eyre" was so important? What does it symbolize to the women?

8. Emma has formed relationships with Mr. Pierce, Roland Sutherland, and the Duke of Islington. What part do each of these men play in Emma's life?

9. What do you see next for Emma? Will you read Volume 3?

Book clubs will relish this lighthearted, enjoyable book. Written in journal form, readers get a first-hand account of Emma's adventures during the Victorian era. Although this short book is only 177 pages, it addresses serious issues of women's rights and the era's societal norms.