League of Extraordinary Women #4
This post concludes my reviews of Evie’s League of Extraordinary Women series. It’s one of the first series I’ve read in its entirety in a long time, and while it has hits and misses, the overall series deserves a 7 out of 10.
Synopsis
From the Publisher Marketing:
Bookish suffragist Catriona Campbell is busy: An ailing estate, academic writer’s block, a tense time for England’s women’s rights campaign—the last thing she needs is to be stuck playing host to her father’s distractingly attractive young colleague.
Deeply introverted Catriona lives for her work at Oxford and her fight for women’s suffrage. She dreams of romance, too, but since all her attempts at love have ended badly, she now keeps her desires firmly locked inside her head—until she climbs out of a Scottish loch after a good swim and finds herself rather exposed to her new colleague.
Elias Khoury has wheedled his way into Professor Campbell’s circle under false pretenses: he did not come to Oxford to classify ancient artefacts, he is determined to take them back to his homeland in the Middle East. Winning Catriona’s favor could be the key to his success. Unfortunately, seducing the coolly intense lady scholar quickly becomes a mission in itself and his well-laid plans are in danger of derailing…
Forced into close proximity in Oxford’s hallowed halls, two very different people have to face the fact that they might just be a perfect match. Soon, a risky new game begins that asks Catriona one more time to put her heart and wildest dreams at stake.
I think that I… I matter. A woman matters, married or not, children or no children. I matter, just as I am, right now. I’m a whole human being.
Suffrage, Scholars, and Steamy Chemistry
Evie Dunmore is back with another gem in the historical romance genre, and The Gentleman’s Gambit is every bit as captivating as you’d hope after such a long wait for it after the previous three. Set against the suffragist movement in England, this story doesn’t just offer romance—it delivers a rich tapestry of ambition, identity, and the fight for change.
At the heart of the story is Catriona Campbell, a fiercely intelligent Oxford scholar juggling more responsibilities than most could bear. She’s a suffragist, an academic, and the reluctant steward of a struggling family estate. Yet, amidst the chaos, Catriona keeps her world in impeccable order—until Elias Khoury strides in and shakes things up.
Elias, a scholar with his own ambitions, initially joins Catriona’s circle under the pretense of classifying ancient artifacts. But beneath his polished academic exterior lies a deeply personal mission: to return the artifacts to his homeland in the Middle East. What begins as a clash of intellects quickly turns into a simmering attraction that neither can ignore. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their dynamic—a blend of fiery debates and stolen moments—keeps you hooked.
The historical details are exquisite, immersing you in the social and political tensions of the suffragist era. Catriona’s tireless fight for women’s rights is more than a backdrop; it’s a driving force that shapes her character and her choices. This is a novel that reminds you how personal and political ambitions often collide—and how love can be the bridge between the two.
I have a feeling Evie wrote most of this in isolation during Covid. While the previous three books area awash with the quartet of girls, Catriona’s friends make very few appearances here, but when they do, they are the soul of the story. Catriona’s sharp intellect and quiet vulnerability make her a heroine to root for, while Elias’s charm and layered motivations add depth to his role. Their journeys—both together and apart—feel authentic and deeply human. Dunmore also tackles themes of cultural heritage and identity with a deft touch, adding another layer of richness to the narrative.
If there’s a hiccup in this otherwise mesmerizing read, it’s the slow build at the beginning. But stick with it—the pacing quickens, and the payoff is worth it. The romance blossoms beautifully, and the story crescendos into a heartfelt, satisfying conclusion that will stay with you long after you close the book.
With The Gentleman’s Gambit, Evie Dunmore delivers a story that’s equal parts romance and revolution. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of love, ambition, and the courage to defy expectations. Whether you’re a longtime fan of her work or new to her writing, this one’s not to be missed. Lovers of historical romance, sharp heroines, and thought-provoking themes will find plenty to adore here. So grab your tea, settle in, and prepare to be transported—you’re in for a treat.
Rating: 8 out of 10
If you’ve already read and liked The Gentleman’s Gambit, check out the following books:
- To Have and to Hoax by Martha Waters – A witty, Regency-era rom-com about a married couple engaging in a battle of deception and second chances.
- The Devil and the Heiress by Harper St. George – A feminist historical romance featuring an American heiress who is expected to marry a duke but has other plans.
- The Duke Who Didn’t by Courtney Milan – A delightful historical romance with humor, a diverse cast, and a charming love story featuring a duke who hides his identity.
- The League of Gentlewomen Witches by India Holton – A hilarious, action-packed historical romance with magic, feminist themes, and a feisty heroine clashing (and falling in love) with a daring pirate.
- The Siren of Sussex by Mimi Matthews – A beautifully written Victorian romance featuring a determined equestrienne and a talented tailor who helps her make a splash in society. It has slow-burn romance, social class differences, and feminist themes.
Celebration of Books 