Valeriya Karatkevich-McCombe

Storm and Silence. The epiphany of a great novel. Ever since the first time I’ve laid my eyes on this book, I have acquired; a profound interest towards Victorian history, extensive knowledge and usage of Victorian English grammar and vocabulary, mannerisms and etiquette I wouldn’t have learned of elsewhere, as well as the persistent desire to reread the series, and immerse myself into this formidable historic era. The Author, Rob Thier, referred to as ‘Sir Rob’ by his readers, portrays a relationship in his writing that depicts a slow-burn romance between the main characters Lillian Linton (alias, ‘Mr. Linton, Miss Linton, Lilly, Lillian, Ifrit, Sahiba’), and Rikkard Ambrose (alias, ‘Mr. Ambrose, Lord Ambrose, Rikkard, Sahib, Rick, Dick’). In the beginning, the characters are polar opposites. Lilly is a fiery feminist, aspiring to find her place in the world, and yearns for freedom. Mr. Ambrose, the richest man in the British Empire, is a cold hearted, penny-pinching chauvinist, who let’s not one get in his way. Throughout the series, they have outstanding character development which shows their growth after spending copious amounts of time together (no complaints!). Sir Rob fills the storyline with romantic tension, various expeditions to exotic regions, well developed characters, side plot storylines, and a good dose of humour. Our heroes meet on the streets of London, while Lilly is in the disguise of a man. After a haste interaction, he offers her the job of being his private secretary under the assumption that she is a male. Shortly after parting, when Lilly is arrested, he discovers her true gender. She flashes a smile at him, while being dragged away by police officers, shouting the words ‘Looking forward to seeing you at work on Monday, Sir!’ This was the beginning of their story. After working in his employ for almost a month (majority of book one), they go on a dangerous trip to France, in order to retrieve an important file. In my opinion, this kick starts their relationship, as they experience unwelcoming circumstances, which test their diligence for one another. Book two and three, deepen their relationship, testing out the waters in the deserts of Egypt, and jungles of South America. As book four approaches, it’s confirmed their relationship shifts ways away from your typical employee and employer. The first emotional moments occur.. and not the usual ones we read about in the first couple books. Of course, we still see lust, adamence, and regular contestation. However, their relationship develops a deeper meaning than that of before. Book 5 and 6 clearly depict their growth in regards to their relationship. Lilly is no longer a girl, but becomes a woman in her own sense. Ambrose finds serenity in something he thought he’d never think of: compromise. Upon finishing the series, one realises the true value of the story told. Though fictional, still, a story of two people, who better eachother. Better themselves. A grand narrative, that portrays love and devotion for another so deep, that one wishes for the same upon them. And so of course, it’s only reasonable for this to capture the hearts, souls, and minds of people from all over the globe, including my own.