I enjoyed the trans rep here, in Alvy who was born female, but is written in male pronouns and in private (as well as out alone) wears more masculine or even eccentric attire - but it's never fully discussed their feelings toward gender and how they present nor their true desires there. Which just leaves me with questions and feeling a bit removed. Also a lack of self thought / internal monologue for certain motivations and feelings. However in both books I've felt a slight lack of depth in the emotion. The newest one being A Highland Hogmanay. I really enjoy the unique plot for both stories out so far. This author has an impressive lyrical style, and bantering conversation that feels of the era, and yet relatably modern. But first, she is going to have to come to a real understanding with her old friend. Why, his French chevalier costume practically glows! While she daydreams about her white knight, an unexpected business opportunity with Alvy makes her hopeful of a new independent life. But she is determined to enjoy this glittering winter wonderland while it lasts, especially her dance with an angel of a man at the masquerade. Laura knows the lush London of the Lexingtons is only a temporary escape from her grey days as a governess.

Like offering her a job-since when did he manage a printing press?-and inviting her to a certain Christmas Eve masquerade. When his old friend Laura Jacobs needs somewhere to spend the holidays, Alvy knows he should keep his distance, but… But Laura makes him do incautious things. That is the entire point! No one who knows him by his given name will ever set foot here. True, the draughty flat on a dingy stretch of the Thames has none of the welcoming holiday warmth of his family’s West London townhouse. Alvy Lexington has bought himself the best Christmas present in the world.

The Christmas Chevalier by Meg Mardell