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Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor

Melanie Dobson (Goodreads Author)

4.06 · Rating details · 791 ratings · 194 reviews

When Heather Toulson returns to her parents cottage in the English countryside, she uncovers long-hidden secrets about her family history and stumbles onto the truth about a sixty-year-old murder.

Libby, a free spirit who can't be tamed by her parents, finds solace with her neighbor Oliver, the son of Lord Croft of Ladenbrooke Manor. Libby finds herself pregnant and alone ...more

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Paperback, 352 pages

Published June 16th 2015 by Howard Books (first published May 5th 2015)

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· 791 ratings · 194 reviews

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Oct 29, 2014 Holly rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2015, netgalley

This book had everything I like in a book: a little mystery, old English manors, love--between men & women, mothers & daughters, husbands & wives, and the power of forgiveness. Told in dual story times--another thing I love--starts in the 50's to present day. I liked both stories and all the characters. I thought everything was well-told by all voices in the story and the book was well-written. It is a little Christian but nothing that I thought detracted from the story. I've been wanting to rea ...more

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Jan 04, 2016 Sarah Sundin rated it it was amazing

For the second year in a row, Melanie Dobson has penned my absolute favorite novel of the year. In 2014, Chateau of Secrets blew me away, and in 2015, Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor did the same. Maggie, Walter, Libby, and Heather are fascinating characters, and the intricate web of secrets is slowly unraveled. With writing as lovely as Libby’s butterfly paintings, I was swept into the world of English gardens and intertwined families. Do not miss this novel, my friends!

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Jun 21, 2015 Jamie rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2015

Melanie Dobson has become one of my go-to authors. Whether it’s a story about the mob, WWII or 1800s, her writing is captivating and plot lines intriguing. The trend continues with her newest release!

How often do we think we know what’s best for us or for those we love? But often, the best isn’t what happens, instead decisions made carry on, the effects rippling through generations. Dobson portrays this with an adept hand and I found myself completely enthralled in the story.

Plus the mystery, t ...more

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Nov 12, 2016 Ashley Daviau rated it liked it

While I did enjoy this book for the most part, I found certain parts of it to be entirely too predictable. This caused me to guess 3/4 of the plot and that really affected my enjoyment of the story. It was a cute story and I'm sure I would have loved it if it had been a little harder to guess what was happening. One thing I really did enjoy was how the story was told both in the past and the present, I love it when stories are told in that way. ...more

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Apr 02, 2017 Alicia rated it it was amazing

Shelves: adult-fiction, historical-fiction, own-it-hardcopy

From the very first page I was absorbed into the story. The dual storylines (past and present) fit together perfectly and I liked each one equally. There was a "time stands still" feeling about the book, especially during garden scenes- probably because Libby's ethereal qualities and dreams about butterflies coloured the whole novel.

Secrets are revealed, past wounds are reopened, and relationships are restored in this story. I particularly like how Heather decides to break the chain of secrets t ...more

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Sep 09, 2019 Carrie Schmidt (Reading is My SuperPower) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: blog-reviewed, dual-timeline, family-ties, small-towns, contemporary, historical, united-kingdom, the-feels, 1950s, diversity

Romance is usually the high priority for me in a novel, and there is a lovely romantic thread in Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor, but for once it wasn’t what makes this one of my top reads. That honor goes to two characters – Libby, an almost otherworldly character whose story alternately brought tears and laughter and the desire to just hug her, and Walter Doyle, a husband/father who wants to do the right thing but struggles to process the disappointments he’s been dealt without hurting those he l Romance is usually the high priority for me in a novel, and there is a lovely romantic thread in Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor, but for once it wasn’t what makes this one of my top reads. That honor goes to two characters – Libby, an almost otherworldly character whose story alternately brought tears and laughter and the desire to just hug her, and Walter Doyle, a husband/father who wants to do the right thing but struggles to process the disappointments he’s been dealt without hurting those he loves. Today, we would say Libby is on the autism spectrum but in the 1950s/60s part of this dual timeline novel they didn’t have that much knowledge – or vocabulary – about autism. As a result, Dobson treats us to tender insight into Libby’s complex personality, highlighting what makes her so special, what makes it so difficult for her to fit in (even with her family) and what makes the world so dangerous to her.

As for Walter, the sacrifices he makes for his family (long after the reasons for those sacrifices are forgotten by most), despite the fact that life hasn’t turned out at all like he’d thought it would, is redemptive in the questions it provokes in our own hearts as well. Not only that but Walter’s choices and actions are a poignant demonstration of how God makes beauty from the ashes in our lives.

"She saw a rainbow of colors where other people saw only black and white."

The other characters besides Libby and Walter are all just as layered and clearly drawn, flawed and redemptive, their stories in turns heartbreaking and uplifting – always compelling. Maggie, possibly the most broken character in this story as she realizes that her flawed choices will chase her the rest of her life, choices that set in motion a multi-generational pattern affecting her descendants for decades. Oliver, the prized son of the aristocratic Crofts, manor-house neighbors to Walter & Maggie Doyle’s humble cottage. “….his parents treated him more like a piece of pottery – shaping and molding him into the distinguished Lord of Ladenbrooke. No one had ever asked him if he wanted to be lord.” Heather, who grounds us in the present-day timeline as she returns home to sell the family cottage, also the one who brings to light the ‘shadows’ of – stunning – family secrets. Christopher and a host of other supporting characters who add their own blend of dimension and emotion to this gorgeous story.

Finally, Dobson sets the scene so perfectly, the Cotswald countryside coming alive with her descriptions, you’ll feel as though you’re right there in the middle of either timeline. The narrative switches easily back and forth between the past and present timelines, as well as utilizing multiple voices/perspectives. It’s all done so seamlessly and smartly though, there’s no effort for the reader either in making the mental switch back and forth between characters or timelines. You just become absorbed in every page, in all the feels the story evokes.

Bottom Line: I know this review is interminably long, but I still don’t feel like I’ve done it justice. Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor is the kind of novel that you want to savor, drinking in every bit of its beautiful prose and compelling characters, yet you find yourself so caught up in the story that you can’t linger for wanting to find out what will happen next. I wept more than once, particular scenes touching my heart deeply – whether because the descriptions were so tender and vivid or because that aspect of the plot was so emotional. This isn’t a light read but it’s ultimately so redemptive that it’s a must-read.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower ...more

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May 21, 2015 Deanne Patterson rated it it was amazing

Deception,lies,untruths whatever you want to call it it was present in this book. It did jump around a bit in time periods which was at times a bit hard to piece what was happening together.
This book took me through the ringer with emotions. Many things happened here that were so unexpected and shocking ! This was a I can't put this book down type of book. All was revealed by the end and I just didn't see it coming. Wow, I loved this book ! ...more

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Dec 31, 2014 Beth rated it really liked it

Shelves: straight-off-the-page, 2015, historical-fiction, dual-time, contemporary, own-it, mystery, tbr-pile-challenges

Libby, a free-spirited, whimsical girl finds a friend in her neighbor, Oliver, the son of Lord Croft of Ladenbrooke Manor. Years later, Libby is pregnant and alone when her father kicks her out, and Oliver has drowned in a nearby river. Though there were many theories about his death, no one is ever held responsible. Sixty years later, upon returning to her parent’s cottage in the English countryside, Heather Toulson uncovers secrets of her family’s history. Filled with mixed emotions, Heather m Libby, a free-spirited, whimsical girl finds a friend in her neighbor, Oliver, the son of Lord Croft of Ladenbrooke Manor. Years later, Libby is pregnant and alone when her father kicks her out, and Oliver has drowned in a nearby river. Though there were many theories about his death, no one is ever held responsible. Sixty years later, upon returning to her parent’s cottage in the English countryside, Heather Toulson uncovers secrets of her family’s history. Filled with mixed emotions, Heather mourns her father’s passing, but can’t forgive the strained nature of their relationship. As she goes through her parent’s belongings, she finds a mysterious journal that belongs to a woman she never knew, and it contains clues that lead her to the truth of the mysterious drowning all those years ago. What she discovers will change everything she thought about her family and unearth secrets and old heartaches that divided her family for years.

After reading and loving Chateau of Secrets at the beginning of this year, I knew without a doubt that I would be picking up Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor. Though often a heartbreaking story, it was also compelling and redemptive. Melanie blends historical, mysterious, and spiritual elements together seamlessly. The story spans generations and has a few different perspectives; I never found myself lost or unable to follow each character’s voice. The beginning of the story drew me in immediately. Maggie has made a mistake that could affect her entire life, and she is desperate. Marriage to Walter Doyle, a respectable man in her town, saves her from complete disgrace and gives her daughter Libby a family and father as well.

In the present day, Heather is understandably not sure how to feel upon returning to her parent’s cottage. Her last interaction with her father before he died was strained, and she finds a book in her parent’s things that belonged to her mysterious sister, Libby, whom her parents rarely discussed. Libby’s character is very child-like, and perhaps in present day, she would be diagnosed with some sort of social anxiety disorder, or even autism. As it was, during her life, she was ostracized as being odd because of her whimsical tendencies. As a character, she is fascinating – her love of butterflies really made sense to me, because she is beautiful in her unique way and couldn’t truly feel free without being able to fly between her home at the cottage and Ladenbrooke Manor, where Oliver Croft balks against the life for which his parents are grooming him.

The most compelling thing about this story is its characters; though at times they are not entirely likeable, they are very realistic. Even when their choices seemed selfish or wrong, I could empathize with their reasoning. It’s always refreshing when characters make true-to-life mistakes and have realistic conflict with one another. Though some actions might have been for the sake of the story’s mystery, for the most part, the plot flowed realistically around their choices. I enjoyed the unraveling of the mystery as it related to each character; the revelations are both poignant and heartbreaking. Walter allows being deceived to produce bitterness in his life; he both loves and resents Libby, and though she may be innocent in many ways, somehow she senses this about him. Despite his flaws, Walter does sacrifice a lot for Libby, and I think portrays best what is both wonderful and terrible about being human. We often cause pain for those we love, but we can also seek forgiveness and reconciliation and come out stronger than before.

This story represents so well the restoration of the human spirit through faith and hope that God can make something beautiful out of life’s shadows. I recommend The Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor for readers looking for a realistic story of flawed people, with layers of mystery and an ethereal feel. I eagerly await Melanie’s next release and hope I get the time to read her previously published books soon! ...more

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Feb 20, 2015 Carrie Turansky rated it it was amazing

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor by Melanie Dobson is a beautiful and touching novel filled with family drama, mystery, and romance. You'll be swept away to the English countryside as you follow the interwoven stories of three women in one family who discover the healing power of love and forgiveness. Engaging from beginning to end! ...more

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Apr 15, 2015 Carole Jarvis rated it it was amazing

Shelves: romance, inspirational, location-british-isles, relationship, favorites-reviewed

Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/1CmJ6Sn

When I come across such a deeply moving book as Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor, I struggle with how to adequately convey my thoughts. This is a highly entertaining novel - poignant, bittersweet, compelling - and gives cause for reflection after the last page is turned. The writing is exquisite, with an atmospheric, otherworldly feel. It is of "read again" quality so as to pick up all that I might have missed the first time.

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/1CmJ6Sn

When I come across such a deeply moving book as Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor, I struggle with how to adequately convey my thoughts. This is a highly entertaining novel - poignant, bittersweet, compelling - and gives cause for reflection after the last page is turned. The writing is exquisite, with an atmospheric, otherworldly feel. It is of "read again" quality so as to pick up all that I might have missed the first time.

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor reflects the human condition with all its flaws and failings, the "shadows" of family secrets spanning generations. Characters are three-dimensional and completely believable, for we know and identify with their background, struggles and emotions. I have long been a fan of British fiction, so I loved the English countryside setting of Bibury in the Cotswalds which Melanie conveyed so vividly - thatched-roof cottages, colorful English gardens, rolling pastureland dotted with sheep, elegant country manors, and cycling down winding lanes.

The narrative flows seamlessly between past and present, told through multiple voices. Perhaps the best way I can convey the feel of this story is to share a little about some of those voices . . .

Libby is one of the most unique characters I've ever seen in novels. In real life, she would probably be diagnosed with "autism spectrum," but this was unknown in the 1950s of her childhood, causing much misunderstanding and frustration. Yet I found her exceptional qualities fascinating . . . "Ethereal. Magical. Like a fairy or butterfly," Libby craved beauty and freedom. And "she saw a rainbow of colors where other people saw only black and white." Melanie handles complex issues well, and I think this story will especially resonate with anyone who has been a caregiver for a special-needs child.

Results of past actions are constant companions of Walter and Maggie Doyle, Libby's parents. Walter just might be my favorite character because of his humanness. He tries to do the right thing, to be honorable, yet he keeps struggling and making mistakes with all that life hands him. But oh, how he learns! Walter is a man of character and depth, whose influence is felt on every page, and he is eventually able to reflect what real love is - and that is something we can take heart from.

Living next door to the Doyle cottage is the Croft family, aristocrats who "clung to their status and property like the wisteria clung to the stone towers on their house." Oliver, the son and heir, enjoyed a childhood friendship with Libby and shared her longing to be free, "but his parents treated him more like a piece of pottery - shaping and molding him into the distinguished Lord of Ladenbrooke. No one had ever asked him if he wanted to be lord."

Heather brings home the modern-day story as she returns to Bibury to sell the family cottage after her father's death. While events of the past caused her to prefer a safe friendship with someone who would never break her heart, family revelations, understanding and joy await her.

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor is a story every one of us can relate to, for surely we've all made regrettable choices and spent countless hours in life's shadows, leaving us nowhere to turn but to the Lord. This is a memorable story about God's faithfulness and transforming power, how He is so very capable of restoring that which is broken, in a "crown of beauty instead of ashes" style. Very highly recommended.

Thank you to Melanie Dobson and Litfuse Publicity for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ...more

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Nov 08, 2015 Najibah Abu Bakar rated it really liked it

Shelves: ebook, read-2015

Mainly a story about a family having to deal with a child with autism spectrum, long before it was understood and able to be correctly diagnosed by doctors. It has good doses of romance, mature-type suitable for women readers my age; not the fiery kind in contemporary novels of young adults.

Two plots intertwined with historical facts became alive under this talented author's wit. It was an enjoyable read, mainly because it was well-researched. The characters enlivened every page - Maggie who mar ...more

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Jun 06, 2015 Heidi Williams rated it it was amazing

A powerful story that touched way deep inside to my very soul!

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May 17, 2019 Nicole rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, fiction, historical-fiction, contemporary, read-in-2019

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor

3 stars

This book follows characters in the past and present. My preference went out to Maggie in the past. The book took off promissing, but after Libby was bown and turning something like 6 years old my interest weakened. I had problems with how the writer set out Libby's character and how her decisions evolved during her growing up. I get that a 6 years old wouldn't listen to her parents and doesn't see the effects of going in to the garden, but a 15 years old that ...more

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Apr 03, 2015 Maggie Boyd rated it liked it

Shelves: inspirational-romance, 2015-reading-year

Mild spoilers in middle of text. You have been warned.

I stayed up past midnight reading this book, something I don't often do. But I was completely caught up in the tale of Maggie, Libby and Heather and couldn't wait to find out what happened with them. On the flip side, I was mildly horrified by the story and the character of the people involved.

Maggie is pregnant by a sailor who promised to marry her and (shocker!) didn't come back. It is 1954 and single mums are still ostracized in small En Mild spoilers in middle of text. You have been warned.

I stayed up past midnight reading this book, something I don't often do. But I was completely caught up in the tale of Maggie, Libby and Heather and couldn't wait to find out what happened with them. On the flip side, I was mildly horrified by the story and the character of the people involved.

Maggie is pregnant by a sailor who promised to marry her and (shocker!) didn't come back. It is 1954 and single mums are still ostracized in small English villages. When an old flame offers an impromptu proposal Maggie jumps at the chance for salvation. She figures she'll never tell the guy, he'll fall in love with the baby and all will be well.

Of course the baby is early and in a spectacular fall out the guy does eventually figure things out. Being the decent sort he sticks with Maggie and the baby but things do not go smoothly for them. Libby is an odd child and her rearing is anything but easy.

Let's stop for a moment and talk about Maggie's tale. While much is said of how Walter should forgive and some is said about how sorry Maggie is to have slept with a man outside of marriage, little is said about Maggie's integrity. As the story unfolds we see that Maggie's penchant for lying to keep herself from censor never ends. Whenever she feels dishonesty will serve her better than the truth she takes that route, sometimes with nasty consequences to other peoples lives. i was extremely uncomfortable with the fact that this issue never really seemed to be addressed.

Then we come to Libby, the rather odd little girl who grows up beautiful but flawed. Libby is meant to be someone with Autism/Aspergers. Unfortunately, I know far too much about this disability for me to be comfortable with how her story is treated. Libby is a serial trespasser - when her mother is fired from her job at the manor, Libby insists on visiting the grounds of the house to look at the butterfly gardens over and over anyway. I think we are meant to feel that the girls pleasure in the beauty of the butterflies should out weight the owner's request to not have her there. The owner is made to seem thoroughly selfish to solidify this point. The problem is, it is vital that these kids be made to observe the law. Libby's inability to obey the rule not to cross over to the garden has nothing to do with her disability - it's a natural trait for kids to want something even if they have been told not to. Should she have been allowed to traverse the streets naked if she felt that made her feel better? The gardens weren't hers and she should have been made to stay out of them. Which would have avoided point number two. MILD SPOILERS INVOLVED. PLEASE READ NO FURTHER IF YOU DON'T WANT SPOILERS. SERIOUSLY.

A person who doesn't know you can get pregnant from sex is not capable of giving consent. If they don't understand the act, how can they possibly say yes to it? Sure it felt good; I think most of us agree that this act does indeed provide pleasure. But Libby enjoying it doesn't make it consensual any more than a (excuse me for being gross here) a 13 year old enjoying the act would. She had less capacity than that 13 yr. old to understand what was happening and trying to make that into a love story sort of sickened me. However wonderful that guy thought he was, he was a rapist and a stalker.

Story three about Heather just reinforced that lies and secrets can really hurt people. I felt sorry for her, her relations had some serious issues.

Ultimately, this book was incredibly addictive and I'm not sorry I read it. But the tale disturbed me in a lot of ways and that pulled the grade down overall.
...more

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Aug 20, 2015 norcalgal rated it it was ok

Shelves: dual-time-period

“Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor” was pure puffery – and not very good at that even. Characters were shallow, storylines were ridiculous, and of course, no matter how dire the situation, everything turns out well in the end.

No one ever truly suffers the consequences of their actions/decisions, and everyone gets a HEA. As I said, puffery, since this novel is about as shallow as a kiddie pool.

(view spoiler) ...more

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Apr 11, 2015 Stephanie rated it really liked it

I’m always intrigued with stories that blend the past and present….

In the present, a woman named Heather –who lives in the States- must return to England. Her parents have passed and their cottage needs tending to. She must decide if she is going to keep the cottage or sell it. Shortly after she arrives, she comes across secrets about her parents that change her situation to say the least. Not only that, she has secrets of her own.

In the past, a young girl named Libby- who is not quite like eve ...more

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Jun 25, 2015 Dawn rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Well, I read it in one day... so that's something. :) Melanie Dobson writes very well, and her storylines are always emotionally moving. She's written a few different genres over the years, and I like to see that she's trying new things. Not many authors have the ability to be successful at that.

Now, about the story. There were quite a few times that I wanted to cry while reading this heart-breakingly sad look at the lives of three generations of prodigal daughters. It was a good story with gre ...more

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Dec 10, 2014 Lizzy Bueckert rated it it was amazing

This story gripped my heart from beginning to end. The best word I can find to describe it is special. I have never loved the characters in a story like the ones in this book. Outstanding!

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Aug 11, 2018 Suze Lavender rated it it was amazing

Heather is back in the United Kingdom after many years of living overseas. She's inherited her parents' cottage and has to sort out their belongings. Heather discovers her family had many secrets. The cottage is close to Ladenbrooke Manor, which was abandoned after a tragic death. Can Heather discover what happened in the past and get the answers she needs? While trying to find out the truth, she runs into her first love. Is there a chance they can at least be friends again? Will Heather only me Heather is back in the United Kingdom after many years of living overseas. She's inherited her parents' cottage and has to sort out their belongings. Heather discovers her family had many secrets. The cottage is close to Ladenbrooke Manor, which was abandoned after a tragic death. Can Heather discover what happened in the past and get the answers she needs? While trying to find out the truth, she runs into her first love. Is there a chance they can at least be friends again? Will Heather only meet despair now that she's back home or will exposing the truth also have a liberating effect?

Libby isn't like the other children in the neighborhood. She isn't interested in school and prefers spending time outside in the gardens of Ladenbrooke Manor. She loves to dance, gives each butterfly a name and tries to set her spirit free whenever she can. This attracts the attention of the boy next door. He can't help falling in love with Libby's beautiful spirit, even though his parents have other plans for him. What will happen when they try to chase their dreams?

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor is a fantastic compelling story. I loved reading about Heather's quest to find answers about her family. She's a strong and talented woman and deserves to know what happened all those years ago. I was intrigued by the secrets her family was keeping from her and equally enjoyed reading about the past and the present. The story begins just before Libby's birth. She's a gorgeous girl with many fantastic skills, but she's different and not everybody accepts that. I loved how Melanie Dobson portrays her, she's a very special main character with a fascinating history. Each chapter is equally amazing and well written and Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

Melanie Dobson makes the English countryside come to life in a terrific way. I could easily imagine Libby's love for the extensive gardens she loves to dance, wander and play in. She describes them in a brilliant enchanting way. The scenery is an important part of the story and I liked how she skillfully gives it the emotional value it deserves. That makes the story extra fabulous. Each secret completely captivated me and I was incredibly curious to get to the bottom of Heather's family history. I loved every single page of Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor and highly recommend it. ...more

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Oct 20, 2020 Cathy Gohlke rated it it was amazing

Set amid the thatched cottages, lush gardens and grand estates of England’s Cotswolds, Melanie Dobson weaves a heart-wrenching picture of deception that morphs into family legacies. When all seems lost she draws exquisite threads of repentance, then turns the tapestry to reveal a world washed in forgiveness, surprised by grace. I couldn’t stop reading, and can’t stop thinking about this book. Beautifully written.

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Dec 03, 2020 Kami S rated it did not like it

Some spoilers*

Didn't finish.
I understand this was a book of hope, redemption, transformation and love. But honestly, I just don't enjoy reading about out- of -wedlock babies(there was for sure 2, maybe 3 in this story.. all 3 heroines from what I could gather). Divorce and new love in the modern story. I basically skimmed through it in like a half hr once I realized the theme. My book club members would agree wholeheartedly. ...more

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Jan 17, 2020 Heather Weseman rated it it was amazing

Really enjoyed this book. Sweet story of an autistic girl and people trying to understand her. A mystery and old manor in England made it even more fun. Love this author

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Oct 25, 2017 Amy rated it it was amazing

Loved it! Lots of twists and turns and a happy ending.

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Jun 05, 2015 Taylor rated it really liked it

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor by Melanie Dobson sheds light on the shadows that hide the secrets each character has in Dobson's newest story. Told from the point of view from multiple characters, it will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat as to when the truth will be revealed. Its story line and characters will captivate you, and its backdrop of beautiful cottages placed in the romantic English countryside will make for a perfect summer read.

My Thoughts

Well done, Dobson. This book bl Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor by Melanie Dobson sheds light on the shadows that hide the secrets each character has in Dobson's newest story. Told from the point of view from multiple characters, it will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat as to when the truth will be revealed. Its story line and characters will captivate you, and its backdrop of beautiful cottages placed in the romantic English countryside will make for a perfect summer read.

My Thoughts

Well done, Dobson. This book blew me away. I had no idea I was going to be as involved as I was when I started to read this book. This book reminded me a lot of The Midwives BBC series (highly recommended from moi), and when that connection happened for me I knew this book was going to be great.

Where do I start? I loved this book. If you like reading about family secrets and about the uncovering of an almost half decade murder with a side of romance spreading across three generations of women in a family (try saying that sentence three times fast): this book is for you. If you liked even one of the things listed above: this book is for you. Trust me.

Dobson explores redemption, forgiveness, and unconditional love through her characters that is both awe-inspiring to read and also personally challenging. This book dealt a lot with the theme of the cycle of hurt (sin) that this one family of women was having hardships with. In no way are the women in the story seemed or portrayed as bad or stupid for making the decisions they made. Instead, they were portrayed as humans doing life as humans: being and experiencing brokenness, feeling lost and looking to God for guidance even in the darkest of places.

I loved how she used one character in particular. His name was Walter and he was the father of Libby and Heather. For Parts 1,2, and 3 each began with a letter that he wrote in his journal about his hardships as a husband, parent and individual. As a character I felt he exemplified coming full circle. I was moved by his actions of how he cared for the women in his life: Maggie, Libby and Heather. I would say more and elaborate more but I would spoil some really satisfying reading time for you if I did. ;)

I loved the story line from beginning to end. It wasn't until the last four chapters where I started to put the pieces of the puzzle together. However, I did not expect the reveal of Oliver's murderer to be who it was.

I highly, highly, highly (see three times!) recommend this book for your ever-growing to 'be read list'. I would propose though that you put it right at the top of the list and read it as soon as possible.

Rating: 4.75 out of 5 bookshelves
I received a free copy from Litfuse Publicity in return for an honest review.
...more

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Jun 20, 2015 Julia rated it it was amazing

Shadows Of Ladenbrooke Manor by Melanie Dobson is a totally fabulous novel, and I was blessed to receive a copy. The novel takes place in England, firstly in Clevedon and then moves to Bibury in the Cotswolds. As I live in England, it was wonderful to read about places that I knew. The action alternates between 1950's/ 60's and present day. It is written in the third person but from various viewpoints.
I found Shadows Of Ladenbrooke Manor to be a very beautiful and calming novel. I think that th Shadows Of Ladenbrooke Manor by Melanie Dobson is a totally fabulous novel, and I was blessed to receive a copy. The novel takes place in England, firstly in Clevedon and then moves to Bibury in the Cotswolds. As I live in England, it was wonderful to read about places that I knew. The action alternates between 1950's/ 60's and present day. It is written in the third person but from various viewpoints.
I found Shadows Of Ladenbrooke Manor to be a very beautiful and calming novel. I think that this is due to the way one of the main characters, Libby, is portrayed by Melanie Dobson. Libby is a free spirit who is more at home with nature than people. She loves beautiful flowers and butterflies, and I think that the calm that Libby experiences rubs off on the reader. As I was reading, it was apparent from the start that Libby was autistic (I knew even before I read Melanie Dobson's comments about her character), and I think that Libby drew me in with her ethereal character and her other worldliness.
The novel deals with the repercussions of secrets, secrets that repeat down the generations. Lives are affected if the truth does not come out. The truth should always be spoken, no matter what the consequences might be.
The theme of forbidden love is linked to the secrets theme. Forbidden love runs deep, penetrating souls and never leaving them. It changes the way lives are led, as it is always there in the background, if not at the fore-front.
There is also a serious message about meddling in other people's lives. It can have major consequences. Advice may be given, but really that is it, it is then time to step back and let people lead their own lives.
Kindness is shown in the novel in many different ways. There is the kindness shown to people who are 'different' which contrasts to the cruelty of some. And there is the kindness shown in simply 'doing the right thing.'
The novel follows three generations of people whose lives are linked and it is a wonderful social study in changing attitudes. Alongside this runs the mystery of how did Oliver Croft really die? - I am not giving any plot away as this is in the book blurb, and the reader will know this from the outset if one reads the back of books. This question keeps the reader hooked throughout the novel until it is revealed. I came up with various scenarios but none were correct!!
I had never read anything by Melanie Dobson before, but now I am hooked! I shall definitely be reading more by her. Shadows Of Ladenbrooke Manor is a beautiful novel and it will leave you feeling calm and peaceful. I can highly recommend it.
...more

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Jun 07, 2015 Rambling Readers rated it liked it

Review: "Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor" is filled with mysteries and tangles of deceit. Melanie Dobson creates a plot with three generations of layers to sort through. Dobson definitely thought outside-of-the box when writing "Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor." There isn't much that is predictable or ordinary in the plot. Amid the quaint cottages and country lanes of England, Dobson weaves a story shadowed with darkness and pain. Stories of the past slowly unfold in the present for Heather Toulson, w Review: "Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor" is filled with mysteries and tangles of deceit. Melanie Dobson creates a plot with three generations of layers to sort through. Dobson definitely thought outside-of-the box when writing "Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor." There isn't much that is predictable or ordinary in the plot. Amid the quaint cottages and country lanes of England, Dobson weaves a story shadowed with darkness and pain. Stories of the past slowly unfold in the present for Heather Toulson, who uncovers shocking revelations about her family and shares some of her own.

The novel started a bit slow, especially in the present day scenes. There were some detailed passages about art restoration that I skimmed, but the pace picked up within several chapters. Secrets and lies are continuously present and create an engaging, yet heavy read. There is a pattern of deceit that emerges among all three generations, and the results are thought-provoking. They can also be disturbing. This is especially true of Libby's role in the novel. Through Libby, Dobson sheds light on the stigma attached to children who were deemed "abnormal" by society in the 1950's and 1960's. As a reader, I couldn't understand Libby's decisions, which made me feel like an outsider. I was left feeling sympathetic to her character and very perplexed by certain interactions between Libby and other characters. The history of the Doyle family is plagued by painful twists, which could have been avoided through truth. It seems a bit unrealistic that each woman would follow such similar life paths, and the plot almost sounds like a soap opera when you tell someone all of the details. Regardless, it is easy to keep turning the pages while seeking resolution.

It would be unrealistic to end "Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor" with complete and perfect closure. There are broken hearts that cannot be mended and relationships that cannot be fully repaired. Dobson gives readers a hopeful conclusion for Heather and her family, finally on the mend, thanks to lessons learned from long buried secrets.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Howard Books through Net Galley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. ...more

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May 24, 2015 Jasmine rated it it was amazing

A poignant tale of love and sacrifice...

Shadows Of Ladenbrooke Manor is a poignant tale of choices, decisions that affect and haunt the lives of four generations of women, and the men closest to them. It is a story of heartbreak and tragedy but it is also ultimately a story of the many facets of love.

Melanie Dobson has woven a butterfly tapestry in story. Lives interconnected by the most tenuous of threads, some of the them dark and some bright. Secrets that can tear apart the lives of two ...more

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Jul 22, 2015 Amber Whitlock rated it really liked it

Shelves: own, litfuse-blog-tours

Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor is the collision of three generations of stories. The setting jumps back and forth between the past and present, which is noted by the date on the past sections and a different font used for each time-frame. The story starts with Maggie and later moves to Libby, but much of the book is viewed through the eyes of Heather, our present-day main character. Without giving away any spoilers, I can say this is a story about history repeating itself. It’s also a tale of secr ...more

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Jul 24, 2014 Hallie Szott rated it it was amazing

Shelves: books-for-review, owned-books

This review is also posted on Book by Book.

Melanie Dobson’s Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor tells a touching multi-generational story, spanning from the mid-1950s to the present day against a picturesque English country backdrop. Dobson enchanted me with her intriguing combination of mystery and romance, as well as a well-rounded cast of flawed yet deeply caring characters, and I just couldn’t put this novel down. The characters make tragic mistakes and keep heartbreaking secrets, yet the discovery ...more

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Aug 03, 2014 Martha rated it it was amazing

It takes a special book to cause me to think of purchasing a book at full retail price. This is one of those books. I have not so throughly enjoyed a book as this in a long while.

Melanie weaves a tale, which could have been cliche, but is really the story of what families faced with unwed pregnancy and special needs in another time period. There is a sweet thread of romance, but romance is not the focus here. The focus is more on how secrets can live in the shadows and destroy relationships when ...more

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About Melanie Dobson

Melanie Dobson

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Writing fiction is a fun excuse for Melanie to explore ghost towns and old houses, travel to unusual places, and spend hours reading dusty books and journals. She writes both contemporary and historical fiction with threads of romance and suspense.

Melanie is the award-winning author of almost twenty time-slip, historical romance, suspense, and contemporary novels including Catching the Wind, The ...more

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“Autumn Dancer flutters among the flowers, chasing the last rays of sunlight until her haven is swallowed up by the night. Her sisters are asleep now, hidden under the fronds, but she doesn't care. She dances alone in the twilight, embracing the warmth of the golden hour, her wings sweeping past silky petals of the late summer blooms. In the safe cocoon of her garden, she dares believe that no harm will ever enter the gates. This is her world of beauty and peace, of sweet nectar and life, completely unspoiled by the footsteps of danger or the silent mockery of time.” — 2 likes

“Quickly she shredded the cabbage on the chopping block and tossed it along with the onion and tomatoes in a blue Pyrex bowl. Then she slid the lamb chops, encrusted with fresh rosemary, into the oven.
While the lamb baked, she brushed her hair in the washroom and pinned it back again. Then she zipped on a silk floral dress she'd purchased in Bristol and retrieved her grandmother's rhinestone necklace, one of the few family heirlooms her mother packed for her, to clasp around her neck.
At the foot of the bed was the antique trunk she'd brought from her childhood home in Balham more than a decade ago. Opening the trunk, she removed her wedding album along with her treasured copy of 'The Secret Garden' and the tubes of watercolors her father had sent with her and her brother. Her father hoped she would spend time painting on the coast, but Maggie hadn't inherited his talent or passion for art. Sometimes she wondered if Edmund would have become an artist.
Carefully she took out her newest treasures- pieces of crystal she and Walter hd received as wedding presents, protected by pages and pages of her husband's newspaper. She unwrapped the crystal and two silver candlesticks, then set them on the white-cloaked dining table. She arranged the candlesticks alongside a small silver bowl filled with mint jelly and a basket with sliced whole-meal bread from the bakery. After placing white, tapered candles into the candlesticks, she lit them and stepped back to admire her handiwork.
Satisfied, she blew them out. Once she heard Walter at the door, she'd quickly relight the candles.
When the timer chimed, she removed the lamb chops and turned off the oven, placing the pan on her stovetop and covering it with foil. She'd learned a lot about housekeeping in the past decade, and now she was determined to learn how to be the best wife to Walter. And a doting mother to their children.
If only she could avoid the whispers from her aunt's friends.” — 1 likes

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