Lee P. (copiousreader) reviewed on 5/3/2015

With shades of Austen and Bronte, Mrs. Klassen has written this sweeping tale set in 19th century Great Britain. This novel gives you those delicious social class problems that only regency can give you and Gothic settings reminiscent of Du Maurier. Emma Smallwood is a woman the reader will come to know well and love. I really like how Klassen tries not to let you know who the hero will be in the end, so I won't give away his name, but frankly, after meeting him you can't but love him as well. The Weston family, complete with 4 sons and a female ward [all 15 years or older and Emma only 21 herself],--boy, do they give Emma a run for her money with their mysteries and interesting ways. She stayed with that family far longer than I ever would. Almost from the start, Julian gives off a dangerous vibe. His over-the-top anger at a tutor shows his true, nasty nature. Twin brother Rowen must step in to save the situation from becoming violent. Emma Smallwood appealed to me with her intelligence and her devotion to her father. I love the way Emma records her thoughts in her diary... but spiritually, Emma has to learn to surrender to God; that she can't control every thing and every situation, and that ultimately you just have to trust God to work out situations. This novel has quickly become one of my favorites by Ms. Klassen, and I look forward to reading it again and again. Highly Recommended.

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