Ladies in Hating by Alexandra Vasti
Ladies in Hating by Alexandra Vasti is the third book of the Belvoir’s Library trilogy. This book gives you everything you expect from a Vasti novel including memorable settings and situations, banter during sexy time, collaboration between the couple, imperfect, but non-toxic main characters, and your face soaked by tears. In addition, this book offers even more, creating a unique treat of a historical romance. If you like eerie haunted mansions, self-imposed forced proximity, eldest daughter energy, and sapphic romance full of tension and wholesomeness, then this is your book.
Finally, we get Georgiana’s story. She has captivated me from her appearance in the first book of the series when I knew there was something more behind her air-headed act. I admire her transformation into the lead of this novel and I love that she was matched with an equally strong woman, Cat. They compliment each other well and it’s extra fun because the seduction is not one sided. There is give and take from each side. While Cat does more to fill Georgiana’s bucket, it is time for Georgie to do something for herself.
The main plot of two rival Gothic novels was a unique concept that will separate this book from other historical romances in my memory. I was pleased by the pacing of the romance, which gave them time to work through conflicts together. It allowed me to really believe the longevity and depth of their romance.
It is refreshing when the main conflict of a queer romance is not the nature of their relationship. Both of their families offered quiet, but honest acceptance. At the same time, it was not anachronistic and described the life that could exists for a lesbian couple in Regency England. Of course, with a bit of the historical romance Happily Ever After magic.
While their relationship was romance writing at its finest, I was fondest of the story behind the Renwick house and the mysteries it held. The most enjoyable scenes for me were when Georgie and Cat were investigating the house with all of its eerie details. I wish this part of the plot had lasted for many more chapters. I would have soaked it up. It was so fun to see the manor come to life in my mind.
On a side note, I thought they were setting up Iris’s book and MMC. I was so disappointed when I read the author’s acknowledgement that called this a trilogy. Maybe there’s plans for a novella?! This is me begging for Iris’s story.
Get your hands on this book as soon as you can!
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC. This is my honest review.
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