4.5 Stars

Are you suffering from a serious case of Downton Abbey fever? Then "Wentworth Hall" is just what the doctor ordered! Its no question that this time period and setting is hot right now and there really aren't that many books that fit the bill. At first, I thought that the book was going to be a nice read, and a great way to revisit the Edwardian manor home era, but then the story really took off and secrets started spilling, and I was on the edge of my seat, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.

The author did a great job of really describing the setting, as well as the clothing. I love historical costuming, so I really liked reading about the clothing the girls wore. And it never came across as frivolous, I think it really added to the atmosphere and setting.

I really liked Lila's character, the younger Darlington sister, she was much more relatable than the other characters. I did enjoy Nora, the maid, as well, she was such a gossip, but never in a mean-spirited way. At first, I couldn't believe how unlikable Maggie was, especially since it seemed like she was the most central character. But once the secrets came out, I really understood why she acted the way she did and also felt so bad for her.

I really enjoyed the satires of the family that someone from Wentworth Hall sent to a tabloid newspaper. The style was so funny, and seemed very typical of the time. Yes, it wasn't that nice, but at first it really was fluffy enough to be a great guilty pleasure. I also appreciated that they were full chapters of the satire instead of just snippets. This aspect really reminded me of the Gossip Girl books, but with a historical flavor.

With this enjoyable read, we won't have to wait until next season to revisit an Edwardian manor house's secrets and mysteries.


book sent by publicist and publisher in exchange for honest review

reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com