March 19, 2026, Book review by Jessica Bamford for Dreamland Books and Yarn

This week’s review will be short and sweet – just like the book I am recommending! This one found me in the midst of a bout of anxiety and it was the perfect thing to bring me out of my ruminations.

“The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion” by Beth Brower is a novella written in diary entries that opens in 1883 upon Emma’s return to her home in the London neighborhood of St. Crispian’s. An orphan, she has spent the past three years in exile as the companion to the elderly Cousin Mathilde, and their disdain for one another is mutual. Now that she is mere months away from the age of majority, she expects to come into her inheritance of Lapis Lazuli House and a modest fortune, all of which have been under the guardianship of Cousin Archibald, brother to the odious Cousin Mathilde and equally odious in his own right. 

Through the twists and turns, we meet Emma’s friends (and foes), learn of her past heartbreak, and are introduced to a mysterious tenant. This book was delightful on audio and is only the jumping-off point for a nine-volume series! I am excited to continue following Emma’s ups and downs. Alaska Digital Library has the whole series on audio through their Libby app, and a hold placed today will be a lovely gift to your future self!