In December 1851, Clara Chapman receives a bizarre invitation to stay at an English manor house called Bleakly Manor. Normally, she wouldn't even consider leaving her ill aunt behind. But the 500 pound prize offered if she endures the full 12 days of Christmas may provide her only way out of impending poverty. Clara wonders what God is up to. She had wondered something similar when she stood at the altar awaiting her wedding, only to be jilted by her betrothed, Benjamin Lane. Someone stole her family estate and left her dependent upon her aunt. Was it Benjamin Lane?
She arrives at Bleakly Manor and meets several of the other individuals promised a prize. But who is the host and what is this odd game? Why are the rations so limited? And, finally, why is Benjamin Lane included in the invitation list? Can she ever forgive him? Moreover, who holds ill-intent against the assembled guests?
You will enjoy this book if you love any of the following things: Victorian England or Dickens, mysteries with a touch of romantic intrigue or stories that illustrate truths about religious experience, cozy holiday tales or atmospheric whodunits. Since I adore Victorian stories, I enjoyed this romp of a tale. It put me in the holiday spirit. The well-timed plot and structure kept me listening while attempting to whittle away the pounds on the treadmill.
3 comments:
Is it simply the era and setting that makes it feel like a Dicken's novel? Sounds like a fun mystery.
Gretchen - The author gives a nod to Dickens in several ways, drawing on some quotes from his works and even placing him (peripherally) in the novel. I felt the author integrated religious observations without making them intrusive. I am almost done with book 2 in this series and liked that one even more than this one. Will probably post it soon (though I'm a bit ahead on my book review posts - a month or so out) - as people are interested in reading Christmas books within the season and not after January has begun - ha!
The last two posts offer so many choices that it's hard to choose one for Christmas
Post a Comment