Book Review: The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen
The Silent Governessby Julie Klassen
Copyright 2009
Bethany House Publishers
443 pages
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0707-5
Historical Fiction
From the publisher:
Olivia Keene is fleeing her own secret. She never intended to overhear his.
But now that she has, what is Lord Bradley to do with her? He cannot let her go, for were the truth to get out, he would lose everything--his reputation, his inheritance, his very home.
He gives Miss Keene little choice but to accept a post at Brightwell Court, where he can make certain she does not spread what she heard. Keeping an eye on the young woman as she cares for the children, he finds himself drawn to her, even as he struggles against the growing attraction. The clever Miss Keene is definitely hiding something.
Moving, mysterious, and romantic, The Silent Governess takes readers inside the intriguing life of a nineteenth-century governess in an English manor house where all is not as it appears.
My Review:
I've been really excited to get this book and when I received it yesterday I couldn't put it down. If you are into Jane Eyre or love a good Regency mystery/romance this is a terrific book. Even if you don't normally read Christian fiction you will like The Silent Governess, it's not at all "preachy."
Olivia is a teacher at an all girls school in England but when she stumbles upon a stranger in her home she flees at the insistence of her mother. What unfolds from then on is both interesting and intriguing, reminiscent of Jane Eyre. Olivia is a smart and determined woman who is stuck in a situation not of her doing but in the process finds love and uncovers secrets that will affect her and all of those around her. It was interesting that Olivia's fondness for numbers helped her in so many situations and I thought she was very sweet and likable. Edward, Lord Bradley, on the other hand was not likable, at first, but once I got to know him I really liked him. I was never bored with this book and it flowed nicely from beginning to end. I fear however, if you are in to books with a strong romantic element you may be a bit disappointed in the romance, even though I found it to be really enjoyable.
On the back cover the author states that she is a fan of Jane Austen and Jane Eyre and since I am familiar with both of the "Janes" I could tell from reading this book. Some of the characters names are even similar but The Silent Governess is by no means a rip off of Jane Eyre. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to Ms. Klassen's next novel!
For more information on Julie Klassen and her books visit:
*I received this book from Jim @ Bethany House for review.*
Ah! I'm so jealous. I'm still waiting for my copy:~( As always, a sterling review. But now, I can't wait to read even more:~)
ReplyDeleteLove Ya,
Ashley
Great review...I am going to HAVE to get my hands on this book..soon!! :D
ReplyDeleteGreat review! :o)
ReplyDeleteyea! Another good review of this book. Good thing I got it for christmas. :D
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you liked it, Renee. That means I probably will, too, if I ever get a chance to read it. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat review, as is your norm!
{{hugs}}
Awwww you guys are sweethearts! Thank you for visiting with me today! :-)
ReplyDeletexoxo~ Renee
Great review!! I'm glad to hear this one is good!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds so good. Wonderful review!
ReplyDeleteHas to be my favorite book so far this year! I can't wait to read her first two now! :o)
ReplyDeleteYay! I am so glad this book was great :) I have it in my TBR pile...i will move it up on the list now lol.
ReplyDeleteI love this book
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