I enjoy historical romantic suspense, and I thought this book would be that from its description. However, while the book did have some intrigue at the end, there was really no truly suspenseful buildup to it; it actually felt out of place compared to the rest of the novel. I thought the beginning was strange, essentially having two scenes that set up part of the story but didn't really feel a part of it. As I was reading, I felt like I was just waiting for something to happen; until the end, nothing much did. The children were darling, and their difficulty adjusting to a new life was understandable. The uncle’s interest in having a fully functional apple orchard and cider barn was mildly fascinating. But most of the scenes didn't really seem to have any dramatic point. The book is listed as Christian, but nothing religious is really talked about until the end of the book when the governess’s sister is dying; it felt tacked on. I didn't find the love story aspect believable either, and both seem to jump to conclusions without talking to each other, which is kind of annoying with full-grown adults. (It’s bad enough when ingenues act that way!) I wanted to like this story, but I felt like it just lacked in characterization and plot. And is it becoming a trope that any book that takes place in Cornwall during a historical era has to have something to do with smugglers?

Another delightful read from Sarah Ladd. This is a complex book, rich with characters that leap off the page.

The Governess of Penwythe Hall was a very sweet novel filled with intrigue and a budding romance. I enjoyed the development of the characters and slow revealing of secrets carefully hidden. I was introduced to Sarah Ladd books with a complementary copy of A stranger at Fellsworth. And three books later, I am hooked on this author. They are all very well written and just nice, clean stories. While it is a long wait until the second book in this story, Sarah Ladd has several other books which I anticipate are just as enjoyable as the Governess of Penwhthe hall. I received a copy of this book with no obligations and views are my own opinion. If the rest of the series are as good as this one, it will be provide some excellent reading.

posted on Amazon, goodreads and CBD

This is a beautiful story of a young woman who has lived through difficult circumstances. It reminds me that life is what you make of it, even when it doesn't go as planned.

Cordelia is a governess to some adorable children who have suffered through the loss of both of their parents. She is the rock that holds the children together and she excels in her role. She has experienced heartache of her own but continues to focus and serve the children rather than get lost in her own grief.

This book had me involved with the plot and characters right from the beginning. I loved the outpouring of acceptance and responsibility the adults showed to the children. They were the heroes with the love they gave the children when they needed it the most. Of course, this story is not all about the children. It is also a slow-moving love story. The timing of events and the progression of the story were perfect. It moved at a perfect pace for me.

Sarah E. Ladd captured the majesty of the sea and I could see myself on the shore with the children discovering the beauty and wonder of seeing it for the first time. She described the joys and frustration of farming and starting a new orchard.

From the beginning, I knew that there was a problem between Cordelia and her in-laws. They did not part on good terms. There was a mystery surrounding her husband's death. I really liked how the story was revealed a little at a time and came to a climax that was very interesting. I was invested from the beginning to the end.

This story contains Christian themes and non-graphic violence.

Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

I love that Sarah doesn't drag things on. Her writing is amazing. I'm not a huge fan of historical books but I liked this one. The characters were easy to love the were sweet. But the book was a bit slow the story didn't move as fast as I'd like but due to the good writing and good characters it was still a very good book.

Another great read by Sarah E. Ladd.
As in her previous books she adds a little mystery in her regency romance, keeping one engaged.
I was given this ebook by Netgally but not required to give a good review. These are my honest opinions :).

This is gently lovely, with romance, mystery and danger. My rating 4.25.

Cordelia has been the governess for her five charges for five years. She obtained the position after her husband died and she determined it was safest for her to be away from her husband’s remaining family in Cornwall. Now the father of the children has died and they, their tutor and Cordelia are being delivered to the children’s uncle Jac in Cornwall.

Jac has inherited the estate of Penwythe Hall from his uncle. His older brother had expected to receive the inheritance which caused estrangement between the brothers. Jac is determined to revive the estate which came with no funds. Jac is working with his workmen in the orchards doing whatever it takes to make the apples grow. He is also having an apple press built as another means to make monies to restore the estate.

Jac is as surprised as anyone when his nieces and nephews arrive. Jac has to struggle learning of his brother’s death and adjusting to the idea that he will raise the children. At least there are trust funds to continue to pay for the tutor and governess. Soon rumors start to spread regarding Cordelia’s family, the Greythornes. They have a dangerous reputation up the coast. Jac becomes worried about Cordelia’s secrecy and then her fear when her brother-in-law shows up at a community party.

Problems arise as the children settle in and other relatives arrive to challenge the guardianship. Danger increases when betrayals and threats, both to the orchards and Cordelia, ratchet up.

I thoroughly liked the primary characters and the children. Expected and unexpected villains added interest. The family element, respect and romance take a few bumps but manage nicely through the conflicts. The reading moved along well as I enjoyed the setting, romance, mystery and suspense. There is a light faith element which I liked also. I recommend this to readers who enjoy clean, historical romance with mystery and suspense.

Source: NetGalley 2019.

I love a good Regency romance and this was a wonderful one. It has all the elements that I expected. A tragic situation involving a compelling heroine. A mystery that involves a handsome hero. And surrounding characters that leave you wondering who are the good guys and who has nefarious intent.

I'm excited that this is the first book in a new series. I'm looking forward to reading the next books to see where the story will take these interesting characters.

This is the first book by Sarah E. Ladd that I have had the opportunity of reading. I was captivated. Each character of this story work beautifully together, it's like a work of art. You feel like you are a part of the story! This book is about a second chances, redemption, family, love, and with a touch of mystery. The story was about overcoming your past, excepted new beginnings and what everyone loves in a book romance. I will gladly recommend this book to my friends and family!

Seriously! Read this book. Cordelia struggles after losing her husband and dealing with her unreasonable and crazy mother-in-law. As you jump into these pages, you will join her as she seeks to make sense of all that happens to find out whats going on around her. Her feelings toward her employer is another area she's not sure she wants to go.

I haven't read a book by Sarah Ladd before. I like her writing style and will seek out more of her books!
I was really drawn into this story! I loved the interaction between the children and Mrs. Greythorne and their uncle. There was a lot that went on... easy to keep track of just a lot jam packed into this first book. Made it very interesting. I can't wait to read book 2!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

This author is new to me but I enjoyed her writing. The book is the first in a new series and was an enjoyable read. Rich in history, this one is ideal for those who enjoy historical fiction.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I've recently read a couple novels set in Cornwall and was excited to return to the Cornish coast when I picked up this newest book by Sarah E. Ladd. True to her normal writing fashion, there was plenty of mystery and suspense, as well as familial ties and romance. The characters have faced loss, heartache, and betrayal. But this story shows their journey to finding healing, peace and love after their sorrows and struggles.

The beginning of the book shows Cordelia (or Delia) leaving her home after her husband's death. There is plenty of suspense surrounding her leaving and why she's being treated the way she is, as well as what her secret is. This scene really pulled me in right away and had me turning to this book every free chance I had so I could dive in further to discover why this opening scene was so cryptic.

I loved watching Delia in her role as the Governess. She brought so much joy and light to all those around her. Even through her sorrows, she still was striving to find joy.

The love story was sweet. Both of the two characters had much that they were trying to work through. As well as trying to adjust to their new normal. Throw in suspense and mystery, dark stormy nights, the Cornish coast, late night horse ride through the moors, secret tunnels, hidden caves, and much more to captivate you in this great read.

Content: Clean. Some moments of peril and suspense.

I received a copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

The Governess of Penwythe Hall
by Sarah E. Ladd

Thomas Nelson–FICTION

Thomas Nelson

Christian , Historical Fiction

Pub Date 16 Apr 2019

I am reviewing a copy of The Governess Of Penwythe Hall through Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgalley:

Cordelia Graythorne fled Cornwall and accepted a Governess position after being blamed for her husbands death. Years later the unexpected death and his last request asking her to watch over his five children has her second guessing her choices. She can’t abandon the children now that they have lost both parents, but their guardian lives in Penwythe Hall, back on the Cornish Coast she tried so hard to forget.

Jac Twetheway is determined to get Penwythe’s Halls apple orchards and he’ll stop at nothing to see his struggling estate profitable once more. He has not heard from his brother in years so he battles grief and bewilderment when his brothers children and Governess arrive. The mystery shrouding the Governess past proves to be a disruption of his carefully laid plans!

If you want a good book, that’ll allow you to go back to nineteenth century England I recommend The Governess Of Penwythe Hall!

Five out of five stars!

Happy Reading!

This is the first book by Sarah E. Ladd that I have had the privilege of reading. I was captivated by the first chapter. The story was About overcoming your past, excepted new beginnings and what everyone loves in a book romance. I will gladly recommend this book to my friends and family!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Sarah E Ladd is so good and also has so many layers, you need to read it carefully. Usually, I read super fast, but with this book, I decided to take my time. Wow!. When the story starts we first found Cordelia leaving her home and then another tragedy forces her to come back to the place she thought never had to come back. She has been hiding, she has a secret. I had so many theory, but in the end, she need not only face; but to say the truth she is keeping for so long. On the other hand, we have Jac Trethewey he is struggling with the orchards of Penwythe Hall’s. He has not spoken with his brother for years, and now he must not only make time for her nieces and nephews. But to face the situation and how he been living with guilt for years. Each character of this story work beautifully together, it's like a work of art. The descriptions, the fact she chooses in my opinion two interesting subjects. You feel like being inside of the story!

My favorite quote of this book is found on page 232

¨Faith¨, Elizabeth said softly. ¨Faith is how you get past it. Faith that you will not be given a heavier burden that you can bear. faith that you are exactly were you need to be, even in the valleys, either for your sake or for His will. Never we are promised that when we rely on Him for strength, we will have what we need to face our challenges. Fear is bitter, vile enemy-it will rob you of today's joy and steal your strength to fight for your purpose. Faith is why I don't fear tomorrow or next day¨.

This book is about a second chance, redemption, family, love, a touch of mystery and beautiful end. If you like good Christian fiction, this book is a wonderful choice!

Truly grateful to the publisher for the opportunity of reading a complimentary copy of this book.

There was suspense and scary scenes, slithery snakes, intrigue, love, loss and sadness, romance, and change wrapped into this one. I loved the children. They were so precious to watch and experience. The landscape descriptions were breathtaking as were the dress descriptions to the ball. The character of the lead female was inspirational because of the loss she tasted and yet was willing to live on and still be happy. The book caused me to reflect on my relationships and their importance and wise choosing. I felt this was a great read.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.


***Also posted on CBD, B&N

" All will work together for good."


Those who know me know how passionate I am of Historical Romances and when I saw that It was a Christian book, I was curious to read it. What a satisfying surprise!

The book tells the story of Delia and Jac, two strong and loyal people who known each other thanks to five siblings who become orphans and are under the care of Delia and the guardianship of Jac, their uncle.

Jac is bravely trying to make his orchids and apple plantations successful and is experiencing some financial hardship to find that he will need to take care of his nephews and nieces, but he is not intimidated by the challenge of approaching five bereaved children whom he does not know well. This coexistence ends up creating bonds between these suffered characters.

The plot revolves around the trust that everyone will need to have in each other to form a united family and still has the mystery that revolves around Delia's past.

I liked the author's writing very much and I became a fan, she can hold the reader from beginning to end and knows how to create moments of tension, sweetness and romance plus a good mystery.

I loved Sophy so much and her sweetness, all the posture and characterization of the characters and I found the end so so so beautiful.

5/5 stars

I'm an established Sarah Ladd fan, so requesting this book was a given. Mrs Ladd has branched out with a new series set in Devon, which is becoming a very popular setting for Regency novels, thanks to the Poldark series.
This delivers a lot of what readers have come to expect in Cornish novels: with smugglers, intrigue and some stunning, dramatic landscape.

The hero Jac was a stereotypical grumpy and reclusive relative, who suddenly has the children of his long estranged brother come and live with him, which comprises most of the action in the book with money struggles and family drama, as well as some hilarious faux pas by the children whom Jac grows to love.
Delia provides vague shades of Jane Eyre a governess with unexpected local connections and something of a shady past.
Then there were the six young charges of Delia. Child characters always bring a refreshing, honest and often funny view of unfolding events. In one passage, one of the little girls suggests they 'should listen harder' when eavesdropping on adults, before being chided by her older sister that it is unladylike behaviour.
All of the characters have to learn lessons in trust and love whilst facing circumstances that could either drive the unconventional family apart, or bring them closer together.

The romance in this book was slow-burning, and most of the book went by at an easy pace, which allowed for more character development. The only reasons my lower rating were that there were quite a few Americanisms and phrases that came across as clunky and unnatural. For example, at one point a character says the children are "well cared after". Shouldn't that be "cared for" or "looked after"?

The ending also came across as a little but rushed perhaps a little far-fetched. On a couple of occasions I also found it hard to keep up with some of the characters. I think there were too many minor characters with walk on roles, and it could become confusing to remember all their names and relationships to the main characters.

None of this really puts me off this author, or the book to a great extent. Its still a good book which makes good use of the setting, its just not my favourite. I think I preferred The Weaver's Daughter. Lovers of Regency fiction and Poldark fans should enjoy it.

I received a copy of this title from the Publisher or their representatives including Netgalley. This did not effect my review and all opinions expressed are my own.

This is the first time that I've read Sarah Ladd. I'm not usually a fan of Christian fiction, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Delia has had much tragedy in her life, losing her husband, daughter and sister in such a short time. She is forced to leave the area by her husband's family. She ends up at Penwythe Hall as a governess to 3 little girls. That's where she meets Jac.
He is the uncle of the children and is their guardian. He is intrigued by the new governess but knows she is keeping a secret.
The plot twists and turns, keeping your attention to the story.
It was nice to read a story where the sex isn't the dominant part of the story.