A Reader's Opinion
Atmospheric with a nice blend of cozy mystery and a sprinkling of sweet romance, Shadows of Swanford Abbey is an engaging read for fans of historical fiction.
Rebecca Lane and Sir Frederick are both interesting in their own right, and even more so when opportunity or circumstance bring them together. From childhood friends to adults who have lived individual lives, they are thrust together when coincidental and unfortunate events lead them to a hotel brimming with history, hauntings, and secrets.
Every aspect of the setting is so beautifully described, from the intricate detail of the abbey to the rolling countryside and quaint houses. Secondary characters added interesting conflicts and interactions. The author's historical detail is also appreciated, and drew me into the time and place with ease.
Not having read this author before, I found her style a little different from what I'm used to, yet quite enjoyable. The Christian aspect did not overpower the story, leaving a nice blend of all elements. Julie Klassen is a talented storyteller, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
Shadows of Swanford Abbey
Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this atmospheric Regency tale brimming with mystery, intrigue, and romance.
When Miss Rebecca Lane returns to her home village after a few years away, her brother begs for a favor: go to nearby Swanford Abbey and deliver his manuscript to an author staying there who could help him get published. Feeling responsible for her brother's desperate state, she reluctantly agrees.
The medieval monastery turned grand hotel is rumored to be haunted. Once there, Rebecca begins noticing strange things, including a figure in a hooded black gown gliding silently through the abbey's cloisters. For all its renovations and veneer of luxury, the ancient foundations seem to echo with whispers of the past--including her own. For there she encounters Sir Frederick--magistrate, widower, and former neighbor--who long ago broke her heart.
When the famous author is found murdered in the abbey, Sir Frederick begins questioning staff and guests and quickly discovers that several people held grudges against the man, including Miss Lane and her brother. Haunted by a painful betrayal in his past, Sir Frederick searches for answers but is torn between his growing feelings for Rebecca and his pursuit of the truth. For Miss Lane is clearly hiding something. . . .
BOOK INFO
Genre: Historical Christian Mystery Romance
Release: December 7, 2021
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Format Read: E-Book
Source: Provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley
Content Rating: 1 Heart
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Disclaimer: Books & Benches received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely those of the reader/reviewer.
