Book Review: The Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah E. Ladd

My rating: 5 stars

‘Fear is a bitter, vile enemy—it will rob you of today’s joys and steal your strength to fight for your purpose.’

Sarah E. Ladd brings us a very good start to a new series set in Cornwall. I have loved her books since her very first and look forward to what she has next for her readers.

Cornwall, England, 1811. Cordelia Greythorne has escaped Cornwall after being blamed for her husband’s death and taken a position as a governess. Three years later, the unexpected death of the children’s father and mother leave her without a job, but the late father has asked her to remain with his children as a last request. He has left guardianship of his five children to his estranged brother, Jac Trethewey, who lives in Cornwall at Penwythe Hall, the home many felt should have been his older brother’s.

Cordelia fears her late husband’s family, who also live in Cornwall, but she is determined to provide a safe environment for the children. Jac Trethewey wants to restore Penwythe’s apple orchards into a flourishing business, but is concerned about the new venture he plans to try. He is completely shocked when he finds out that he has the care of his five nieces and nephews.

There are many secrets here and danger abounding. Ladd once again takes her readers on a fascinating journey into the coast and moors of Cornwall. She brings the landscape and characters alive with her rich prose and descriptions, all the while giving us a rich spiritual theme. Highly recommended.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers via Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (April 16, 2019)
• Publication Date: April 16, 2019
• Sold by: HarperCollins Publishing