Helpful Score: 1
Ive never seen Downton Abbey and historical fiction is not my preferred genre, but I fell in love with Carries writing after reading Seeking His Love and I knew her latest book was not to be missed. I found Highland Hall to be a precious story filled with mischief, division, betrayal, sacrifice, family, beauty and the most noble of character from the most underestimated person in the story, Julia herself.
When Julia arrives at Highland Hall, everything is in disarray and despite her lack of experience for the governess position, shes determined to prove herself worthy of this job in order to help her beloved parents. No governess has been able to work with Mr. Ramseys children for an extended amount of time, his teen cousins are now in his responsibility and will be requiring someone to prepare them for coming out into the social season in London, and finances are at their limit when Julia is interviewed. However, shes willing to do every task entrusted to her with dignity and care no matter how nervous she is.
One of my favorite scenes is the very beginning when Julia meets Mr. Ramsey. They have a slight misunderstanding, but this first encounter on Highland Hall property gives the reader an idea of Julias merit and personality. Julia is not only determined to get the job, shes determined to do the right thing and keep the peace in the household.
References in the story are The Jungle Book and Pride and Prejudice.
Julia is definitely my favorite character in this story and I was amazed by her heart despite certain injustices that go on. Her influence is immediately felt in the household, she becomes the peacemaker, the maternal being for both children, she refuses to gossip, is discreet and humble, she is a diligent/supportive friend and she becomes confidant to many people in the story. She is devoted to Christ, her parents, and her charges while working for Mr. Ramsey. I understood how much she loved her family and it was a joy to see her close relationship with her parents. She puts herself last in all she undertakes and is a true heroine.
Mr. Ramsey is also a wonderful character and even though I considered him a perfect match for Julia, I had trouble having sympathy for him in his financial struggle and I was at times in disbelief that he misunderstood certain situations. I deeply admired how he made it his business to know all that went on in his household and how he kept up propriety among his staff, but it was a challenge to see how much bitterness he has towards his late wife. It was utterly refreshing to see how Turansky writes about his change of heart regarding his children as well as how protective he is of Sarah, his sister. Despite his flaws and misunderstandings he encounters, his compassion does show through as he desperately works at trying to save Highland Hall.
I highly recommend The Governess of Highland Hall for those who enjoyed Jane Eyre, Melanie Dickersons The Merchants Daughter and any book by Julie Klassen. Highland Hall is an elegant dwelling that turns into a real home with many secrets that get exposed, characters that find out whats really important in the midst of potential scandal, and marriages of convenience versus true love.
I want to thank Carrie for the ARC review copy provided and for the chance to be part of Carries Reading Friends. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions stated in the comments are my own.
When Julia arrives at Highland Hall, everything is in disarray and despite her lack of experience for the governess position, shes determined to prove herself worthy of this job in order to help her beloved parents. No governess has been able to work with Mr. Ramseys children for an extended amount of time, his teen cousins are now in his responsibility and will be requiring someone to prepare them for coming out into the social season in London, and finances are at their limit when Julia is interviewed. However, shes willing to do every task entrusted to her with dignity and care no matter how nervous she is.
One of my favorite scenes is the very beginning when Julia meets Mr. Ramsey. They have a slight misunderstanding, but this first encounter on Highland Hall property gives the reader an idea of Julias merit and personality. Julia is not only determined to get the job, shes determined to do the right thing and keep the peace in the household.
References in the story are The Jungle Book and Pride and Prejudice.
Julia is definitely my favorite character in this story and I was amazed by her heart despite certain injustices that go on. Her influence is immediately felt in the household, she becomes the peacemaker, the maternal being for both children, she refuses to gossip, is discreet and humble, she is a diligent/supportive friend and she becomes confidant to many people in the story. She is devoted to Christ, her parents, and her charges while working for Mr. Ramsey. I understood how much she loved her family and it was a joy to see her close relationship with her parents. She puts herself last in all she undertakes and is a true heroine.
Mr. Ramsey is also a wonderful character and even though I considered him a perfect match for Julia, I had trouble having sympathy for him in his financial struggle and I was at times in disbelief that he misunderstood certain situations. I deeply admired how he made it his business to know all that went on in his household and how he kept up propriety among his staff, but it was a challenge to see how much bitterness he has towards his late wife. It was utterly refreshing to see how Turansky writes about his change of heart regarding his children as well as how protective he is of Sarah, his sister. Despite his flaws and misunderstandings he encounters, his compassion does show through as he desperately works at trying to save Highland Hall.
I highly recommend The Governess of Highland Hall for those who enjoyed Jane Eyre, Melanie Dickersons The Merchants Daughter and any book by Julie Klassen. Highland Hall is an elegant dwelling that turns into a real home with many secrets that get exposed, characters that find out whats really important in the midst of potential scandal, and marriages of convenience versus true love.
I want to thank Carrie for the ARC review copy provided and for the chance to be part of Carries Reading Friends. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions stated in the comments are my own.
Judy D. -
The Governess of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky
Edwardian Brides Series Book 1
Julia Foster has just returned from twelve years as a missionary in India. She worked alongside her parents and they have just returned to England because of her fathers health. They hoped to return to their mission duties once he is well. Until that time she needed to work to help support her parents. She was thankful to get the governess job at Highland Hall, as it is walking distance to her parents.
Sir William Ramsey has found himself with a title and lands. What he didnt expect was the financial state his late cousin had left behind. He needed to find a way to save Highland Hall as people depended on him. His sister, two children and the two daughters of his late cousin. His late wife had left him embarrassed and untrusting so the idea of marrying for money was the last thing he wanted, but would it be his only choice?
Julia is somewhat like a Christian Mary Poppins. She brings joy to the people shes around and looks at everything in a positive light. Such as, where people see young Andrew as wild, she sees a nine year old boy. The author has brought the characters to life in such a way that this reader shed more than one tear during this story and also found it hard to set the book down. The story pulled me in and held me all the way to the end. Im looking forward to the next two books in this series.
**Received through Blogging For Books for review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/2013/05/carrie-turansky-book-list.html
Edwardian Brides Series Book 1
Julia Foster has just returned from twelve years as a missionary in India. She worked alongside her parents and they have just returned to England because of her fathers health. They hoped to return to their mission duties once he is well. Until that time she needed to work to help support her parents. She was thankful to get the governess job at Highland Hall, as it is walking distance to her parents.
Sir William Ramsey has found himself with a title and lands. What he didnt expect was the financial state his late cousin had left behind. He needed to find a way to save Highland Hall as people depended on him. His sister, two children and the two daughters of his late cousin. His late wife had left him embarrassed and untrusting so the idea of marrying for money was the last thing he wanted, but would it be his only choice?
Julia is somewhat like a Christian Mary Poppins. She brings joy to the people shes around and looks at everything in a positive light. Such as, where people see young Andrew as wild, she sees a nine year old boy. The author has brought the characters to life in such a way that this reader shed more than one tear during this story and also found it hard to set the book down. The story pulled me in and held me all the way to the end. Im looking forward to the next two books in this series.
**Received through Blogging For Books for review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/2013/05/carrie-turansky-book-list.html
Dee W. (dwolters) reviewed The Governess of Highland Hall (Edwardian Brides, Bk 1) on + 61 more book reviews
"The Governess of Highland Hall" by Carrie Turansky, book review
When she returns from India to England to help her father recover from a lengthy illness, Julia must find a way to support her family. She gets a job as governess to the children of widowed Sir William Ramsey. While she quickly settles into the routine of caring for the children, Sir William is confronted with the large "Death Taxes" imposed his inheritance of Highland Hall, following the death of his cousin.
Both Julia and William have a strong will to do what is best for their family, even at the expense of their own happiness. And both have a strong faith in the Lord. During the months, Julia helps both the children and Sir William to heal following the death of their mother. And Julia helps other members of the family and staff to grow and change for the better.
I enjoyed this novel. While the general story was a bit predictable, the character developement was wonderful. The pace of the action was just right, fast enough to keep my interest, but not so fast that I got lost. I was humbled by the selflessness of both Julia and Sir William as they were willing to give up for others.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Random House. All opinions expressed are my own. Book available soon from Amazon and other retailers.
When she returns from India to England to help her father recover from a lengthy illness, Julia must find a way to support her family. She gets a job as governess to the children of widowed Sir William Ramsey. While she quickly settles into the routine of caring for the children, Sir William is confronted with the large "Death Taxes" imposed his inheritance of Highland Hall, following the death of his cousin.
Both Julia and William have a strong will to do what is best for their family, even at the expense of their own happiness. And both have a strong faith in the Lord. During the months, Julia helps both the children and Sir William to heal following the death of their mother. And Julia helps other members of the family and staff to grow and change for the better.
I enjoyed this novel. While the general story was a bit predictable, the character developement was wonderful. The pace of the action was just right, fast enough to keep my interest, but not so fast that I got lost. I was humbled by the selflessness of both Julia and Sir William as they were willing to give up for others.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Random House. All opinions expressed are my own. Book available soon from Amazon and other retailers.
Sarah H. (thedestinyofone) reviewed The Governess of Highland Hall (Edwardian Brides, Bk 1) on + 31 more book reviews
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up (reading level and light romance)
Best for Ages: 15 and up
Are you tired of Christian romance books were the faith element seems like only an afterthought? Then this is just the book you need to pick up, because The Governess of Highland Hall doesnt put God second.
I enjoy a romance book as much as the next girl but I do get tired of the Christian romances that are all about feelings. I want there to be some gushy feelings, but a relationship built on those feelings and a couple of kisses are not my cup of tea.
Julia is a heroin that mothers will love because her focus is not on how handsome the man is or his charm, but the strength of character and his faith. I really loved Julia. Her faith and character are something that even the Christian market often lacks. Without being preachy or so perfect it is annoying, she has a faith that is refreshing. She doesnt just say the right things, she lives them out. She follows her own advice and wisdom, what a thought.
This book was a little slow at times compared to a lot of modern books, however, I enjoyed the change of pace. I think there was only once when I really wished the pace would pick up. Also, I found it a littler tiresome all the points of view were in the story. I dont mind mutable points of view, but 6 or more is a little much.
The two children of the story: heartbreakers. I loved them so much. William was a strong hero who also was a man of character and faith. Although not the most engaging leading man I have ever met, I admire him and really ended up liking him.
I recommend this book for those looking for a sweet romance story, strong faith and uncompromising characters, and a slower paced book.
I received this book from Multnomah Books via Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Best for Ages: 15 and up
Are you tired of Christian romance books were the faith element seems like only an afterthought? Then this is just the book you need to pick up, because The Governess of Highland Hall doesnt put God second.
I enjoy a romance book as much as the next girl but I do get tired of the Christian romances that are all about feelings. I want there to be some gushy feelings, but a relationship built on those feelings and a couple of kisses are not my cup of tea.
Julia is a heroin that mothers will love because her focus is not on how handsome the man is or his charm, but the strength of character and his faith. I really loved Julia. Her faith and character are something that even the Christian market often lacks. Without being preachy or so perfect it is annoying, she has a faith that is refreshing. She doesnt just say the right things, she lives them out. She follows her own advice and wisdom, what a thought.
This book was a little slow at times compared to a lot of modern books, however, I enjoyed the change of pace. I think there was only once when I really wished the pace would pick up. Also, I found it a littler tiresome all the points of view were in the story. I dont mind mutable points of view, but 6 or more is a little much.
The two children of the story: heartbreakers. I loved them so much. William was a strong hero who also was a man of character and faith. Although not the most engaging leading man I have ever met, I admire him and really ended up liking him.
I recommend this book for those looking for a sweet romance story, strong faith and uncompromising characters, and a slower paced book.
I received this book from Multnomah Books via Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Leah B. (leahhhh12) reviewed The Governess of Highland Hall (Edwardian Brides, Bk 1) on + 20 more book reviews
As soon as I saw the cover of The Governess of Highland Hall I figured it was going to be a book I enjoyed. I was definitely right about that!
The Governess of Highland Hall is the story of Julia, a young woman who has been serving several years in India with her parents as a missionary. When her father became ill, Julia and her parents returned to England and Julia now seeks employment in order to help ease her parents financial burden. Applying to be a governess, Julia is hired at Highland Hall to be the governess of Sir Williams two children, Andrew, age 9, and Millie, age 6. She has also come to oversee Sir Williams cousins, Katherine and Penelope, as they learn social skills and prepare for Katherines first season in London.
William has recently inherited Highland Hall and he finds himself in a financial bind as he struggles to fix up the estate. A widower, William finds it hard to trust others, but the new governess begins to change that.
As Julia settles into her role as governess, trouble brews among the servants and romance blossoms where it is least expected.
I found myself loving many of these characters though there were some that I greatly disliked as well! The author did a great job of transporting me back to 1911 and bringing the characters and setting to life. While this was my first book by Carrie Turansky, I look forward to reading more of her novels especially if theyre anything like this one!
If youre a fan of Downton Abbey, you will definitely want to pick this book up. I highly suggest it to anyone looking for a quick read that will keep you turning the pages. After all, I finished this book within 24 hours!
I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing through the program Blogging for Books. I received no compensation other than this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
The Governess of Highland Hall is the story of Julia, a young woman who has been serving several years in India with her parents as a missionary. When her father became ill, Julia and her parents returned to England and Julia now seeks employment in order to help ease her parents financial burden. Applying to be a governess, Julia is hired at Highland Hall to be the governess of Sir Williams two children, Andrew, age 9, and Millie, age 6. She has also come to oversee Sir Williams cousins, Katherine and Penelope, as they learn social skills and prepare for Katherines first season in London.
William has recently inherited Highland Hall and he finds himself in a financial bind as he struggles to fix up the estate. A widower, William finds it hard to trust others, but the new governess begins to change that.
As Julia settles into her role as governess, trouble brews among the servants and romance blossoms where it is least expected.
I found myself loving many of these characters though there were some that I greatly disliked as well! The author did a great job of transporting me back to 1911 and bringing the characters and setting to life. While this was my first book by Carrie Turansky, I look forward to reading more of her novels especially if theyre anything like this one!
If youre a fan of Downton Abbey, you will definitely want to pick this book up. I highly suggest it to anyone looking for a quick read that will keep you turning the pages. After all, I finished this book within 24 hours!
I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing through the program Blogging for Books. I received no compensation other than this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
Mary N. (maggysue) reviewed The Governess of Highland Hall (Edwardian Brides, Bk 1) on + 811 more book reviews
So good and highly recommended!
Lisa G. (plum-marie) -
First read by this author and I read it in one sitting (an overnight one). I had read the preview online and was interested enough to get it. Clean book with good characters. I felt the strong Downton Abbey feel but in the end I almost wished it didn't have that. I didn't like the subterfuge of the housekeeper and how she hasn't had any consequences yet. There were also a lot of sub characters to try and follow with so much going on upstairs and down at the same time. I'm still not behind Katherine so not sure how book #2 will go as she is the main character in that one. The book didn't have a strong historical feel though it is set in 1911 but it felt pretty modern. I was pulled in but in the end I felt the heroine was a little too much of a paragon-she was able to solve everyone's problems and wasn't presented with much fault so a little unbelievable as a character. I liked William but all the events that kept happening to put him in a depressed mood were a bit much in the few months the story takes place. Pretty heavy on the religion references throughout. All in all not bad and I'll probably read the author again but not in a hurry.
