17th century spirited adventurers!

Valiant Ladies by Melissa Grey

Swashbuckling sword carrying ladies, depraved and dastardly villains, all merge to give a powerful story set in 17th century Potosí, Peru. Their adventures sweep through society from the heady heights of the rich and powerful to the inhabitants of narrow alleys and taverns. On their journey, the gift of love and acceptance is challenged.

When her brother Alejandro is found hanging from a tree on the eve of her unwanted betrothal,  Eustaquia “Kiki” de Sonza is overwhelmed with grief. Determined by authorities as being a suicide, Kiki’s friend, more adopted sister, Ana Lezama de Urinza is not convinced. Kiki was to be married off to a man she has little time for. Inheritance being a key motivator. In fact Kiki doesn’t want marriage, hers and Ana’s relationship has steadily been growing into something more—sapphic love. Meanwhile, amongst the lower classes someone is killing young women, and others are disappearing. Kiki and Ana’s  search for answers to many of their questions lead to the highest echelons in the land.

I was on the edge of my seat as these two ladies rolled from one dangerous situation to another. My heart was in my mouth, and at moments, I’m positive theirs were as well. Based loosely on actual people the tale of these two courageous women is a hard and fast ride. 

A Macmillan Children's ARC via NetGalley