Synopsis:~
Believing herself guilty of a crime, Olivia Keene flees her home, eventually stumbling upon a grand estate where an elaborate celebration is in progress. But all is not as joyous as it seems.
Lord Bradley has just learned a terrible secret, which, if exposed, will change his life forever. When he glimpses a figure on the grounds, he fears a spy or thief has overheard his devastating news. He is stunned to discover the intruder is a scrap of a woman with her throat badly injured. Fearing she will spread his secret, he gives the girl a post and confines her to his estate. As Olivia and Lord Bradley’s secrets catch up with them, will their hidden pasts ruin their hope of finding love?
My take:~
Lovers of regency romance and Jane Austen novels need look no further than Julie Klassen’s The Silent Governess for their next foray into the intriguing nineteenth century. Perfectly capturing the exacting social restraints and destructive impact of a tarnished reputation, Julie has created a wonderful story detailing the unusual position of a governess in a wealthy home and the impact of an unsuitable attraction. Olivia and Lord Bradley are characterised very well and the descriptions of the estate and society aptly done. The novel is held together by an appealing mystery and while not difficult to solve, held my interest for the entirety of this lavish and lengthy tale.
With thanks to Bethany for my review copy
Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of The Apothecary’s Daughter & Lady of Milkweed Manor
Character spotlight on Olivia and Lord Bradley
Visit Julie’s website
March 31, 2010 at 1:52 pm
I love this one.
http://cherryblossommj.blogspot.com/2010/01/review-silent-governess.html
March 31, 2010 at 3:47 pm
I really enjoyed this book. It's been a long time since I read anything set in the Regency period, so this was a nice change. The details of life as a governess were interesting to me.
March 31, 2010 at 4:35 pm
I loved this book. Julie has become one of my favorite authors.
March 31, 2010 at 5:05 pm
I am a fan of Regency romances and loved The Silent Governess. Certain aspects of it reminded me of Victoria Holt's gothic novels. Now I'm eager to read more of Julie's books.
March 31, 2010 at 8:18 pm
I have one of Klassen's books in my TBR pile.
I just wanted you to know that I really enjoy your blog! It is so unique, and the character spotlights are so much fun! You received an award at my blog.
April 1, 2010 at 4:05 pm
Thanks Rel and everyone! So glad to hear you enjoyed the book.