About the Book
Author: Carrie Turansky
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Release Date: September 26, 2023
Publisher: Bethany House
In 2012, art historian Gwen Monroe travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she becomes acquainted with David Bradley--the owner's handsome grandson--who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a bed-and-breakfast. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she uncovers a connection to the father she never knew.
In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.
In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.
My Thoughts
I just love dual timeline storylines and this one was so good! Sometimes you fall in love with one time period over the other but I loved both of these timelines equally. The characters in both timelines were greatly written. They were all full of depth and emotions.
Immediately we meet Gwen who is in the present, 2012. She lost her mother while in university and never knew who her father was. She works for her grandfather and we see her being sent to the Lake District, Longdale Manor to be exact, to help evaluate some antique pieces for auction. You can tell that not only does she feel lonely but she feels like she is not worthy of much. While there she meets the owner Lilly Benderley and her grandson David. While showing her the estate Lilly shows Gwen the journal of Charlotte.
In 1912 we meet Charlotte whose evangelistic father passes away and she finds out that he wasn't who he claimed to be. Heartbroken she decides to keep this information from her mother to keep her from further pain. The family has to move to the Lake District due to lack of funds and stay with a family that will help them through their grief.
I'm not going to reveal much of the story because you really need to read it but I will say this. I loved the theme of forgiveness and the focus of leaning on God. This story definitely leaves you in pure contentment.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and was captivated by the scenery. You will absolutely love the story and completely get lost in it.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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