A mysterious death surrounding an even more mysterious man has Ella searching for answers. They say that her sister died of illness, but she and her family have their doubts. Ella suspects her sister’s husband, Henry, to be to blame. In order to find her answers she will have to put on a disguise and enter his home. This quickly leads to more questions than answers. Can she find the truth?

Hannah Linder has a beautiful way of setting the scene. She gives her landscapes feeling which makes it easy to imagine. Her characters are interesting and believable. It’s easy to become invested in each character’s story within the book.

This thriller keeps posing more questions and keeps you turning pages searching for answers. Even with all the mystery, the plot is easy to follow. Once pieces do start falling into place, the author leaves no plot holes. The story is interesting, well thought out, and enjoyable. I highly suggest this book.

I received this book for free in exchange for this honest review.

At first, I thought this story was more or less just a retelling of Jane Eyre. There were very clear parallels: a young woman becoming a governess to a mysterious and often absent nobleman, a mysterious room and a person making nocturnal wanderings.

Before long though, it stands on its own two feet: Ella was actually on a mission to uncover the truth about what happened to her sister, Jane. She becomes governess to the young son of Lord Henry Sedgewick under an assumed identity: Henry is in fact, her brother-in-law and she believes he murdered her sister, Jane. Ella wants nothing more than to expose him to society so that he will suffer the penalty of his actions.

Henry has a monstrous reputation, but the longer Ella stays with his home in Wyckhorn Manor more she begins to realize appearances can be deceptive. Henry’s hatred and bitterness is a shield he puts up to keep the world out, a means of protecting himself, and she soon begins to learn her sister was not the woman she idolized most of her life. As the secrets at Wyckhorn are exposed, the danger grows, and the family must face losing those they love all over again.
In the end, Hannah Linder’s debut Regency novel proved to be a satisfying read with a lot of mystery and intrigue. The story also makes you think about familial expectations, favouritism and the consequences of the seemingly small and insignificant things people can do to one another. Small hurts and small rejections can have terrible effects.

I gave a lower rating because of some language which was overly modern. People in the early 19th century didn’t call children “kids”. It wasn’t even used as a colloquialism then. I also felt the ending was a little overdone to the point it became slightly incredible. There were just far too many unlikely things happening. However, since this is a debut novel, I think a lot of that can be overlooked, and it’s a very good read overall.

I’d recommend to anyone who liked Regency romances with a Gothic or mystery twist, such as readers of Julie Klassen, Michelle Griep, Joanna Davidson Politano and others.

Thanks to Barbour books for approving my request for this title on Netgalley. This didn’t influence my opinion which is entirely my own.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this advanced copy. Sadly I wasn’t able to finish this book. I found myself disliking the main characters. I found it very odd that Ella would have never met her sister’s husband. Thank again for the opportunity!

This cover instantly caught my eye, followed quickly by ‘Gothic style Regency romance’. I LOVE Gothic fiction, especially at this time of year when it’s starting to get colder and all I want to do is be in front of a fire in my cozy blanket with a crumbling estate! I had just finished another Gothic romance and I was eager for more books like that one I finished. This one came across my desk at the perfect time and was exactly what I needed!

Author, Hannah Linder, is a new author and she is from a small publishing house of Christian Fiction. As luck would have it, I love finding new to me authors and ones that are off the beaten path. I adore Julie Klassen who kind of has a cornerstone on Gothic style Christian Fiction, and this new author reminds me a bit of Klassen but with her own unique style. This book is giving me all the haunted estate vibes and has a questionable hero with a fierce heroine, if you are a fan of Gothic fiction you need to check this one out! It’s a fun romp through Regency England that will satisfy your fall reading desires!

I am so glad I picked this one up, I finished it in just a couple of days and was left wondering when we might expect another book by Linder. Lots of atmosphere, some intrigue, and of course romance. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and once I was hooked—I was HOOKED. It did take me a minute to get into this one, but once I did, I didn’t want to leave! Gothic fans, this one has your name all over it!

Summary

Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?

A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author

Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.

Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.

Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister? (summary from Goodreads)

Review

As I mentioned above, it took me a minute to get into this one. I was a little lost in the story and I think it might have worked better to have some more clear facts established early on. For example, it wasn’t clear to me right away what Ella’s background was but for her to become a governess it was evidently beneath her station which left me wondering what was her station exactly and why was being a governess frowned upon for her? Similarly this put me off a bit to her character at first. I felt like she was a little uppity at first because of this but as the story went on it all came together however, I had spent the first part of the book wondering why she seemed so uppity. I think explaining some of that early on in the book would have been helpful for some readers to get orientated within the story and with the characters.

I also found it weird that Ella hadn’t met her sister’s husband prior to coming to the estate. I think some creative license can be given here but it still felt off to me and I think it could have been cleared up with some explanations like maybe Ella was away on the continent when her sister was married etc. Something to help explain this plot hole. But these are things that didn’t ultimately impact the enjoyment of the story, they were more stylistic preferences that I think would have made the story stronger. This is a debut novel for her so I am sure the more experience she gets as a writer, the stronger her work will be.

I was intrigued by Henry’s character from the beginning. The first thing I always think when I read about a man with a ‘secret’ (whether good intentioned or not) is ‘what did he do now’. I love discovering the true character under a perceived villain. It’s such a great character study with perception and first impressions. I loved Henry’s character from the beginning and was super excited to see Ella warm to him and how their interactions grew throughout the book. Overall this was a solid debut novel and I really loved the atmosphere! Linder really gave the audience a feel for the haunted castle and stormy seas! Such a great read for the fall!

Book Info and Rating

Format: 320 pages, paperback

Publication: November 1st 2022 by Barbour Fiction

ISBN: 1636094368

Free review copy provided by publisher, Barbour Fiction in partnership with Austen Prose Book Tours, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and in no way influenced.

Rating: 4 stars

Genre: historical fiction, Christian Fiction, gothic lit, romance

Regency Romantic Suspense with a Gothic Flair

As soon as I heard about Hannah Linder’s debut, I knew I wanted to read it. I love the Regency era and adore a good Gothic tale. Beneath His Silence did not disappoint. From an old manor house draped in mystique and brimming with secrets, to a mystery begging to be solved, to a sweet romance, this book has everything Regency readers crave, and is certain to delight fans of Jane Eyre.

Ella and Henry make for wonderful protagonists. Both carry hurting hearts and are misguided by deceit. The story unfolds each of their journeys of self-discovery as they learn the truth about those they have loved, as well as themselves. Though antagonism wedges between them in the beginning, a sweet romance soon unfolds. This is combined with an overt faith message that will please many avid fans of Christian fiction.

Beneath His Silence is a solid debut that Christian historical fiction fans are sure to adore.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Is there anything better than a sweet regency romance these days? I know I'm always up for reading one and debut author Hannah Linder delivers a delightful tale that is sure to enchant you as it did me. Prepare to be swept up in the manners and gallantry of Regency England!

Ella leaves home after the death of her father to help solve her sister's murder. By chance she ends up as the governess to her sister's young son.

The rest of this story is Ella solving the mystery of her sister's death and even a bit about her married life.

Ella is a fantastic character. She is curious, vivacious, and determined to find the truth. With what she knows about her sister, she is able to uncover things that help her to find the surprising truth.

Lord Sedgewick has secrets, which increase Ella's suspicions that he killed her sister, but then she sees a side of him that doesn't match her previous suspicions.

This story is amazing. The writing is strong and the chemistry between these characters is undeniable. I found it a struggle to put down and participate in life. I was absolutely enthralled with this debut novel.

I received a early copy from NetGalley and this is my honest review.

Warnings: #1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You’ll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which may mean some spoilers, so watch out.


Before we begin, I must preface this review by saying that I knew, beyond the shadow of a doubt, before I even thought to begin reading this book, that I was going to love it. I’ve loved everything Hannah has written up to this point (that I’ve read, at least), and I know her writing is positively exquisite. Sure, I’ve never read a full-blown novel by her...or a Regency one, for that matter...or a Gothic romance. BUT I had it already ingrained in my mind and heart that I would simply adore it.

It rarely occurs that I, despite several reasons from trepidation, am entirely and wholly certain I will love a book—even if I had no just cause not to. So this in and of itself in an anomaly.

It is even more so an anomaly that this book could be so trope-y and cliché and yet so fresh and welcoming. I just gotta say, when I finished Beneath His Silence, I mused to myself in silence (*coughs* title pun) about how the story felt so familiar and almost overdone. Adventures in the forest? Crazy relatives? Kidnappings? Broody lords (gah, I’m such a sucker)? Governesses? Lying-about-my-true-identity trope? A heroine who puts herself in every compromising and dangerous situation possible (word from the wise: don’t talk to strangers, let alone accept transportation from them)?

Y’all, maybe it was overdone, but it sure as shootin’ felt like coming home to me. I’ve grown SO tired of stories that are trying to be unique or relevant but end up feeling hyper-secularized, outrageously feminist, cliché, and meaningless. All I really want out of a story these days (ESPECIALLY romance) is one that makes me feel. I get scared for the characters, yell at the characters, chant KISS HIM KISS HIM twenty-five times under my breath, resist the urge to chunk my Kindle at the wall. I want a story that transports me into it, that I get lost in, that I become a part of. (I legitimately had book hangover for days and could not get myself out of Wyckhorn Manor.)

I wasn’t over-analyzing everything the heroine said. I wasn’t shaking my head at how toxic the relationship was. I wasn’t facepalming because of how stupid or under-developed some element was.

I actually got to enjoy reading and stay up way too late to finish it and good goshing gravies have I MISSED THAT!!! God bless you, Hannah Linder, for giving me that back, even for just a night.

*sighs*

Now, onto the review…

(Because, yes, that was just the preface.)

I will be honest here, for a moment in the very beginning, I did question my earlier assumption that I would love the book. The story started WAY too quickly and just plunged right into a situation I was clueless about. Worse yet, all throughout the novel, the scenes were FAR too short—which can work for heightening suspense...but not every scene. Then it’s repetitive and loses its poignancy.

HOWEVER, I was very quickly dragged into this story. I eventually didn’t mind or notice the short scenes. I picked up on all that was going on (and totally called everything...plot twists ain’t got nothin’ on me, babe *winks*). (Also, for the record, it is not an issue to me at all if I figure out the plot twist or whatever, because it really just adds another layer of suspense, because I know, but the characters don’t. It’s fun to watch—read?—them run around like headless chickens because they have no earthly idea what’s going on. *cackles*)

ANYWAY. Where was I? Ah, yes. (Boy, have I missed writing stream-of-consciousness reviews. I don’t even have my notes with me right now.)

*returns with her notes, although she promises not to follow them too closely*

First off, let’s talk characters. Y’all know how I usually hate heroines—especially snarky, independent ones? FUHGET ABOUT IT!!! Y’all, Ella was GOLD. I kinda actually adored her?? Like WHAT???

No, she wasn’t perfect, but boy howdy! was she witty and actually tolerable enough to dance with! (*coughs * Totally a Pride and Prejudice reference...I can’t help myself.) Yes, she did get on my nerves, but she was so genuine and authentic that I let it slide. Seriously. A little bit of real development and genuine characteristics goes a whole heck of a lot farther than forcing your heroine to be something she’s not.

And Henry?

I literally do not even have words for this beautiful man. There is no question that I fully adored him—no kinda about it.

But the best part? THEIR DYNAMIC. The classic repartee and witty dialogue between them was my favorite, and the tension...the doubt...the e v e r y t h i n g. Augh. I just loved them and their interactions.

(This is where I must interject that THIS IS LITERALLY THE GOTHIC VERSION OF PRIDE AND PREJUDICE. IT’S LIKE AUSTEN AND THE BRONTE SISTERS ACTUALLY LIKED EACH OTHER AND CO-WROTE A NOVEL. IT IS PERFECT.)

(What makes it more perfect is that Austen hated Gothic fiction and Charlotte hated Austen. *sighs* I love this pair.)

(Seriously, though. Henry seems full of pride, and Ella is totally prejudiced against him. It doesn’t get any better than that.)

Moving on...Peter was a doll. My doll, because I have officially claimed him as my child. Step aside, Ella, he is mine, and I’m taking his daddy with me too.

*coughs* Hannah did do a fabulous job of writing Peter and making him seem realistic—and SO adorable!!! Two things I cannot abide are annoying kids and unrealistic kids. But Peter was my perfect baby.

On the note of Peter, I loved how Ella actually chose to love him and learn to care for him, even though she initially didn’t like kids—especially one that belonged to him. SEE? YOU CAN BE A MATURE, INDEPENDENT FEMALE AND STILL LOVE KIDS. THANK YOU.

But the very, very best part? (Cue the spoilers). The way even though Henry claimed to hate Ella after the truth came out, ELLA STOOD HER GROUND. She was like, heck no, am I gonna turn my back on you just because you are blinded by your righteous fury. I love you, man, and I ain’t leavin’ you, no way! Like YAS QUEEN!!! That, my friends, is how you write a love-to-hate-to-love romance. *drops mic and walks away*

*comes back because she has more to say*

I have been wanting to read a Gothic romance for so long now, and let me just say that this was so deliciously Gothic and I love it. Not freaky or depressing, but tense and suspenseful—even when you pretty much know what’s coming?

Speaking of not being depressing, have I mentioned yet how much I LOVED the themes and the authentic faith (subtle but present and poignant)??? No? Okay, then, I LOVED IT. Hannah did what so few authors do anymore—let her characters live out their faith in a genuine way, in a way that actually speaks to the reader. Not from a soapbox or with watered-down ideals and trending terms—but heart-to-heart speaking.

Finally, the prose. If there is one thing Hannah Linder is a master at, it’s prose. I just...gah, I am so jealous. And yet so in love with the way she spins words into such beautiful tapestries. NOW, I will be honest, Beneath His Silence was written a little more simply than her self-published works, BUT everything was still delightful. The emotions, the descriptions, ACH! So. Good.

*turns pea-green with envy* *okay, not really* *but definitely feels the need for improvement in her own writing*

I think that covers everything. *glances back at notes* Yep. All good.

Long story short, READ THIS BOOK. IT IS GORGEOUS. Simply gorgeous. Lovely prose and even better dialogue, well-written characters you can’t help but love, suspense and tension and Gothic-ness galore, literal perfection...yep. Y’all need to read it. Hannah Linder has done it again, just as I knew she would! Now, when is this one gonna win an award? I’m thinking a Christy or a Carol this go-round.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy through NetGalley on behalf of the publisher/author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Beneath His Silence is Hannah Linder’s debut novel. It is a gothic regency romance, so for those of you who love the Bronte sisters and Jane Austen, this might be a book for you. Unfortunately though, it is not a book for me.

I really struggled with this book. There was just so much happening. Something would happen in the book, it would be resolved and immediately something else popped up. It was all too much. I also struggled with a lot of possible historical inaccuracies. I’ve read a lot of regency books in my life, so although I’m not a historical expert, I have a good idea of how things were based off all the books I’ve read. There were so many things that did not line up with what I already knew.

This book is marketed as a romance, but the romance was not very well developed and is not really a key part of the story. I felt as if the romance was randomly added last minute. Feelings seemed to appear out of nowhere.

I’m sure there are people who will enjoy this book, but it is not one for me.

A gothic/spooky setting which made for a unique story that hooked me from the start. A tortured hero, a feisty heroine on a mission to investigate her sister's death and a spooky manor home. This story is filled with mystery, intrigue, danger, betrayal, romance, and some faith. While I don't really bother with faith I didn't feel it was off putting and didn't detract from the story. A great first novel,

Beneath His Silence is a Regency romance wrapped up in a mystery.

At the center of the story are Ella and Lord Sedgewick (Henry). The two characters are an interesting contrast in that they are both strong and assured and are both hiding something. By telling Ella and Henry’s stories through alternating viewpoints, author Hannah Linder gives readers greater insights into both characters and the pasts that inform their decisions.

Though completely different, Beneath His Silence gives off some Jane Eyre Gothic vibes. Linder does a fine job setting the scene and, at times, eerie atmosphere. It’s this attention to detail that pushes the story forward.

There are some rather heavy Christian undertones that come into play in Beneath His Silence. The book’s publisher — Barbour Books — is “a leading Christian publisher of popular books.” And while these Christian elements stay fairly true to the characters, there are a few instances that may feel heavy handed to those who came purely for the Regency romance.

Beneath His Silence is a fairly fast and engaging read. It’s a slow-burn romance that features themes of forgiveness and spiritual awakening against the backdrop of Regency England.

While Hannah Linder is relatively new on the Christian fiction writing scene, her work reads like that of an experienced writer. In Beneath His Silence Linder develops her characters through dialogue, actions, and reflections on their past. We see great depths of loyalty, integrity, and mental anguish as we enter the lives of those above and below stairs in this Regency England drama. Themes of forgiveness, faith, and surrendering to God are expertly woven into the story. Tension holds the story together, and keeps the reader engaged as the story reaches a dramatic climax. The ending is quite satisfying.

I am grateful for having been introduced to a new-to-me author and for receiving a complimentary copy of Beneath His Silence from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

With a haunted mansion, Beneath His Silence was the perfect gothic romance to read around Halloween. The spookiness was a perfect level for me, it put me in suspense mode without losing lots of sleep. While mourning the loss of her sister, Ella applies to be her brother-in-law’s governess so that she can find the truth about her sister’s death. Lord Sedgewick does not recognize her, and is so relieved to find someone who is willing to do the job, so he hires her. I loved the overall theme of learning to believe in God and reach for Him in times of trouble. As I was reading I kept telling my husband that the book felt a lot like Jane Eyre, but with its own complete storyline.

If you enjoy spoilers, here are some of my favorite quotes:

“If he could spend the rest of his life only looking upon her, he would be satisfied.”

“Forgiveness sprang to his heart in one pulping moment. If only it could spring so easily to his lips.”

All in all a fantastic debut novel. I’ll read any other books that Hannah Linder writes!

Ella arrives at Wyckhorn Manor hoping to succeed in the soul-consuming mission her late father did not live long enough to complete: proving that Lord Sedgewick murdered her sister. Unfortunately, she might be the next to fall victim to his secrets--and his charms.

This Gothic, Bronte-esque Christian Regency Romance packs suspense and emotional drama alongside a sweet (clean) courtship and each protagonist’s arc toward self-forgiveness. The Christian elements are prominent—a journey toward conversion—making this title ideal for readers who enjoy both Christian Fiction and Regency Romance rather than either in isolation. If you are a reader of both categories, I can highly recommend this story as immersive, exciting, and emotionally satisfying.

About this book:

“Will Seeking Justice Lead to Her Own Demise?
A Gothic-Style Regency Romance from a Promising Young Author
Second daughter of a baron—and a little on the mischievous side—Ella Pemberton is no governess. But the pretense is a necessity if she ever wishes to get inside of Wyckhorn Manor and attain the truth. Exposing the man who killed her sister is all that matters.
Lord Sedgewick knows there’s blood on his hands. Lies have been conceived, then more lies, but the price of truth would be too great. All he has left now is his son—and his hatred. Yet as the charming governess invades his home, his safe cocoon of bitterness begins to tear away.
Could Ella, despite the lingering questions of his guilt, fall in love with such a man? Or is she falling prey to him—just as her dead sister?”


Series: As of now, no.


Spiritual Content- Scriptures are read; Bible reading; Ella doesn’t care what God thinks of her because she doesn’t know if there really is a God, that she was repulsed that her father had turned to “such weakness” on his deathbed, & hasn’t seen proof of God (which Henry tells her that she just hasn’t looked and that gets her wondering); Ella doesn’t want to say prayers out-loud with a child, thinking that he’s been taught foolishness; *Spoiler* [About halfway, Ella truly starts wondering about God and then a bit later prays to God, saying she believes in Him *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]; Henry has a faith after going through terrible events, but sometimes feels like there’s too much guilt between himself and Heaven (he wonders if God has forgiven him); A vicar aims a gun at someone saying that he is performing the will of the Lord (he says that is won’t be easy as he’s a man of the cloth and it could destroy his congregation, *Spoiler* [but does not end up shooting him *Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]); Many prayers; Many talks about God, seeing proof of Him, & faiths; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Many mentions of God, faiths, praying, & forgiveness; Mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; Mentions of churches, church going, & a vicar (who is said to spent half the time trying to convert Ella and the other half trying to win her heart); Mentions of sins; A few mentions of Heaven;
*Note: Phrases like “in the name of everything holy”, “for mercy’s sake”, & “in heaven’s name” are used up to a couple times each; Ewan tells Henry to “go to the devil” when mad at him & tells a group “the devil with all of you”; Henry believes a curse has been placed on his house and him after his wife’s death & mentions of it; Ewan thinks that God Himself is ordaining a punishment (but is actually his own plan); Ewan says that a deceased person still talks to him (he is mentally unwell); Ella isn’t one who adores children, thinking that they are “strange and devilish creatures if the village urchins are any indication”; Someone calls Ella an “uncouth little devil” after she talks back to someone in a higher status than her; A nightmare about hellfire and hearing “sleep of death” said; A couple mentions of a woman being called a goddess; A couple mentions of a rumored ghost; A mention of a prison/locked room being called a man’s “demon chambers”; A mention of a man being like a “mad, devilish creature”; A mention of rats being “fearsome little devils”; A mention of guilt being a demon;


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘bloody’, a ‘bloody-well’, a ‘blooming’, a ‘stupid’, a ‘why the deuce’, two ‘blasted’s, two forms of ‘dash it all’, two forms of ‘what the—‘, three forms of ‘what/why/who the devil’, six forms of ‘dash’, and twenty-one forms of ‘biddy’; Mentions of curses (said, not written); Being threatened with a gun (thrice), seeing someone shot and killed, being shot, shooting at someone (self-defense), pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Setting a fire, being locked in a fire set on fire, panic, & pain (semi-detailed); Fighting, Being hit, Being choked, Pain, & Blood/Bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Helping a those on a shipwreck, being caught in the waves, seeing bodies, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Being thrown off a horse & pain (up to semi-detailed); Nightmares (up to semi-detailed); *Spoiler* [Ewan kidnaps Peter (Henry’s son) to have Henry become all alone like him & also sets fire to Ella’s room after locking her in there (semi-detailed) *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]; Ella believes that Henry murdered her sister/his wife; Henry threats a man by grabbing his throat (barely-above-not-detailed); Ewan gambles, drinks alcohol, & throws up (*Spoiler* [Including Ewan gambling Peter (a young boy) away and the man who “won” him using him for ransom for money and Ella (he tells her that he killed the boy, but did not) *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]); Ella hides her true identity from Henry and both Ella & Henry lie a couple times; Henry did not have his mother’s love growing up and is sadden by the fact his son won’t as well (Henry struggles to forgive his mother for her leaving/disappearance); When something is destroyed, Ella thinks that her mother was right in her endless scolding about Ella’s recklessness; Many, many mentions of Ella’s sister’s murder, her trying to find out what really happened, the murderer, & Ella wanting revenge on the murderer (up to semi-detailed, *Major Spoiler* [It turns out her sister was having an affair with her husband’s brother and was accidentally shot by Henry (who feels guilt and grief over this) when he confronted her and the brother (Henry says he was so angry that he almost wanted to kill his brother and asks God why the gun went off) *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]); Mentions of someone who wants to kill himself, but is locked up so that doesn’t happen (he is not mentally well most of the time after the death of a loved one) & him wanting to make someone else suffer, *Spoiler*[ Henry’s brother and Ewan wants Henry to suffer *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)], barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a shipwreck, deaths, bodies, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of the possibility of being murdered; Mentions of ransom; Mentions of gunshots, being shot, getting the bullet out, fights/being hit, blood/bleeding, injuries, & pain (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of fires, smoke, & injuries (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of crimes & criminals; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & taverns; Mentions of gambling & debts; Mentions of hatred (including Henry and Ewan towards their mother); Mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deceit; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of nightmares; A few mentions of wars & injuries; A few mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of smoking & cigars; A few mentions of hunting; A couple mentions of bribes (including someone thinking that a constable is taking them); A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of eavesdropping; A mention of a possibly injured horse.


Sexual Content- Two hand kisses, two cheek kisses, a jaw kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and three semi-detailed kisses; Staring at someone’s lips; Touches, Dancing, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (including a brief mention of a bit of chest hair, barely-above-not-detailed); *Major Spoiler*[ Ella’s sister (Henry’s wife) had more than one affair with his brother and they had a child together (which she kept who was the biological father a secret from both Henry and Ewan; Henry believes that the child is his); Ewan had “a thrill” in taking Lucy away from his brother and gaining her love without Henry knowing; In Lucy’s diary, it’s said that Henry did not give his heart to her (he married her out of social obligation) and was aloof to her; A couple mentions of their secrets nights of love that was “wild and forbidden” with passion *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]; A man tries to get Ella to warm his bed and go with his to a room by threatening to kill her if she doesn’t & *Spoiler* [later asks for her as part of a ransom deal (which Henry is strongly against her being a part of it, but Ella sneaks out and Henry saves her before anything happens.) *End of Spoiler* (hide spoiler)]; For the first third of the book, Henry doesn’t like interacting with women because he knows what they want (marriage) when they try to brush up against him (he later says he “wants” Ella but catches himself); Mentions of couples sharing beds (married and an affair); Mentions of kisses, hand greeting kisses, & embraces; Mentions of touches, smelling, & blushes; A few mentions of a mother possibly disappearing with another man (leaving her husband and children); A couple mentions of reputations & compromising someone; A couple mentions of flirts & flirting; A couple mentions of jealousy; A mention of a maid’s scandal; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.

-Ella Pemberton, age 22
-Henry Sedgewick
P.O.V. switches between them & Ewan
Set in 1814 (Epilogue in 1815)
320 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)

All I need to hear is “clean regency mystery” and I’m excited to read the story. Which is what happened when I first heard about this new novel. To be honest, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would and that’s possibly because I hyped it up in my head prior to reading it. It’s a bummer, unfortunately, and I have mixed feelings on this book. :(

Some things I liked: The faith content was strong throughout the story and very realistic for what the characters were going through; I particularly liked seeing Ella’s development in that regard. I liked the writing style and would definitely try another book by this author. That we see both Ella and Henry’s point of view, because if we only saw her POV, then we probably would have hated him with her in the first half of the story. (He’s dealing with his own grief and guilt over the past events, but doesn’t share his emotions with anyone else.)

What I wasn’t a big fan of: The suggestions of a creepy man towards Ella and him trying to force her to go with him into a room. The last 30% or so of the story felt very melodramatic, and while, yes, there was a lot happening, I can’t pin-point exactly what displeased me on this (part of it was partially because of someone who’s mentally ill being a villain-like figure). Henry believing in a curse on him, even though that’s not of God. Henry was interested in Ella, knowing that she didn’t believe in God and didn’t share his faith (that part is quickly resolved, but I would have preferred Henry to be at least somewhat hesitate towards her because of that). The vicar was an odd side plot. The angst of Henry and Ella’s feelings, particularly when the reveal of identities happened. There felt like there were inconsistencies in regards to the regency time period (Henry and Ella being alone together a lot, no chaperones, and elements of the dramatic ending).

So, yes, it was more of some suggestive hints and then some little things that added up and affected my enjoyment of the story, unfortunately.




*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Barbour) for this honest review.

I could not but this novel down! The story of Ella in her search to find her sisters killer, captivates from start to finish. I love this beautiful gothic style illustrated by the author. This novel is perfect for readers who enjoy mystery, drama and romance.

In her dazzling debut novel, Beneath His Silence, Hannah Linder captures her readers' attention until the wee hours of the night with a gothic regency tale of murder, love, guilt, secrets, and faith! 

Lord Sedgewick stopped caring what people thought about him a long time ago. Riddled with the guilt of his wife’s death, he chooses to cloak himself in silence than allow others to see his true nature; however, when a young lady calling herself Miss Woodhart inquires about the governess position, Lord Sedgewick finds himself at war with not only his heart but the dark secrets he keeps locked away at Wyckhorn Manor. Can he allow someone into his life despite his treacherous past, or will Miss Woodhart prove to be another woman who breaks his heart? 

Ella Pemberton is determined to avenge her sister’s death, even when that means disguising herself as a governess and going into the belly of the beast. For five years, she has believed Lord Sedgewick to be a monster, but after moving into Wyckhorn Manor and searching for the truth, Ella might learn that she’s been wrong all along. How could such a selfless man as Lord Sedgewick murder his wife in cold blood? The days at Wyckhorn Manor are beautiful, but the nights are cold. Will Ella uncover what happened all those years ago, or will she fall prey to the same fate as her sister? 

Beneath His Silence is a suspense-filled novel that will leave you wanting more! Though I initially found it annoying that the points of view would change so rapidly, I persevered and found myself swept away in the storyline. I loved the characters and admired their growth; honestly, I couldn’t put it down! For a debut, I was very impressed with Hannah Linder’s expertise in her craft. She is a fantastic storyteller whose career I look forward to following! If you enjoy romance, historical fiction, regency England, and eery mysteries, I highly recommend Beneath His Silence! 

*Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for providing me with a pre-release copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own*

“‘And if I am the source of that pain, let me offer remedy. If you regret the feelings you implied before—’ ‘I regret nothing.’ His chest throbbed. ‘And if you wish to offer me remedy, become my wife.’”

Five years after the death of her sister, Ella is determined to find answers and goes to one place she can find them. Playing governess, she finds herself in the home her sister was murdered in, with the man who killed her.

Lord Henry Sedgewick has been torturing himself these last five years. Consumed with wet guilt and hatred, he gives his all to his son. When a new governess is hired, he soon finds himself questioning what he knows and finding hope growing.

“Beneath His Silence” is the debut novel of Hannah Liner. It is a story of revenge, mystery, hope, healing and love. Hannah did a great job at a weaving a story where you feel compassion for the characters. Her message that God can heal if you just trust Him was shared beautifully.

I loved the the struggle that Ella had in accepting her sister’s life and in finding God. For so many, finding and trusting God is those small moments built over time. Ella was able to look back and realize that. I also loved that Lord Sedgewick’s faith in God remained constant, regardless of his trials.

The relationship between Ella and Lord Sedgewick is slow but understandably so. I enjoyed the moments where they let their feelings show and was cheering for them throughout the book. Lord Sedgewick makes a great hero!

The one thing that I struggled with was feeling like there was too much going on. New characters being introduced and events happening that, at the time, I thought were trivial. If you feel like that, just keep reading! Everyone played a role. Now that I’ve finished, I appreciate those moments and characters more.

If you love Christian, regency romance, suspense or a combination, read this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an advance copy. These opinions are my own.

#beneathhissilence #hannahlinder #netgalley

I loved this gothic romance, it was intriguing, mystery filled and adventurous. I didn't want to stop reading, it was that good. Definitely highly recommend this one!

I thought this book would the perfect read for Halloween, why I’m actually binging any Jane Eyre movie or series I have at home, and in part it was.
There are insanity, secrets, violent deaths, a misunderstood heroic hero, a damsel in need of a rescue, treason and lot of lies.
I liked Henry, he is more than the duties he rallies behind to explain his choices, he is a sweet soul who has made mistakes and had since paid for.
I can not say the same about Ella, her thoughts are clouded and oriented, she has a wretched view of the man from the beginning, never giving him the time of a day to think anything else than the worst of him, interpreting everything to fit her gloomy opinion that everyone of his actions are lacking. She reads malice or abuse where there is none just simply because it is the easiest thing to do instead to seeking forward and getting a real answer.

I understand her journey toward god was a parallel with her mistrust of the events having led to her sister’s demise, the more she unravels, the more she begins to believe. Yet I was unable to warm to her, her every actions only led to hurting Henry, putting Peter in danger and herself too.

After, I do think this book would be a great Minerva Press release, between the hero hiding a traumatic past and a tragedy, the villain lurking in the vicinity, the heroine impersonating someone she is not while digging for mud, then a mad chase, a kidnapping, some scoundrel after the heroine’s virtue and many gun shots, it is quite a ride a young lady would have adored as the supposed villain turned hero rescues more than once the damsel in distress.

After on a note, as a historical romance reader, I wonder why did Henry never ask for a letter of reference?
Even if she was supposed to have been employed at a different job, an employer should asks to know the character of their newly hired, especially around his precious son.
I understand the circumstances were dire, but to put his son’s safety into the hands of someone just they passed by, it is a bit insane.

3 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses

I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.