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Treasures of Surrey #2
Het woud van Emberwilde
‘Het woud van Emberwilde’ is een prachtige historische roman van Sarah Ladd die je in een adem uitleest. Zolang ze zich kan herinneren verzet de knappe Isabel zich tegen de strenge regels van Fellsworth School. Ook nu ze geen leerling meer is, maar lerares, doet ze haar best een fijne plek te creëren voor de leerlingen, onder wie haar zusje Lizzie, voor wie ze zorgt sinds haar vaders dood. De komst van een vreemdeling met nieuws over onbekende familieleden zet Isabels wereld op zijn kop. Op uitnodiging van hun nieuwe familie, reizen Isabel en Lizzie naar Emberwilde, een uitgestrekt landgoed met een mysterieus bos, omgeven door folklore en onheilspellende geruchten. Al snel komt ze in een delicate dans met twee knappe mannen terecht, die allebei naar haar hand dingen. Te midden van het geflirt, gaat ze op zoek naar de waarheid over haar verleden – diep verborgen in Emberwilde Forest – die haar toekomst zal bepalen.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2016
193 people are currently reading
3310 people want to read
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Sarah E. Ladd
21 books3,171 followersI would love to connect with you on Facebook and talk about all things Regency! Be sure to like my page for updates: http://www.facebook.com/SarahLaddAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 453 reviews
June 23, 2017
This is book 2 in the Treasures of Surrey series. There are not many authors that make it to my privileged auto read list when they release a book but Sarah E. Ladd definitely is on the list. Now what author do I automatically think of when I want to read an excellent regency you may ask, well it would be one and the same, Sarah E. Ladd. I really enjoyed this book. There was a light romance in the book and the book was full of intrigue,danger around every corner,smugglers,deception and more. The author really knows how to set up the atmospheric feel to get the reader fully involved in the book. Fully recommended!
Pub Date 10 May 2016
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson--FICTION for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date 10 May 2016
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson--FICTION for a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 26, 2017
Oh how I loved reading this book! It fully transported me to the English countryside setting and was paced in a way to allow me to relax into the story while keeping me immersed with the search for further information about the plot and characters. I appreciate that the author didn't tell all the details about each character's lives in the beginning, but allowed me to discover them bit by bit through the narrative. Isabel is my favorite kind of heroine- strong in her convictions and loyal to those she loves. The sudden transition in her life is difficult to adjust to, but her role as guardian to Lizzie leads her to be an example of making the best of things instead of dwelling on the negative. I loved the words of advice from her Fellsworth friend Mary that she takes to heart, "Remember, with each dawn seek guidance, and with each night give gratitude. For there is a divine plan for each of our lives, and a journey, and you have started yours." Although Isabel tries her best, the anxiety of living in a world where things are not always what they seem brings emotions to the surface, and her reactions and struggles are realistically portrayed.
Colin is another favorite type of hero- quiet and steady with gentleness and intelligence. Those qualities comforted and appealed to Isabel and endeared him to her as he proved trustworthy with each encounter. The efforts of Isabel's aunt to match her with another were frustrating and Colin's former flame trying to ingratiate herself back into his affections made me nervous and brought tension to the various romantic angles. Colin's work to solve the case of smuggling in the woods of Emberwilde adds another level of intrigue throughout the story. With everything that is going on, it never felt overwhelming, instead the various aspects wove together and balanced out the pacing. This was a perfect Regency reading experience and I highly recommend Dawn at Emberwilde, especially to fans of Julie Klassen and Sarah M. Eden.
(Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
Colin is another favorite type of hero- quiet and steady with gentleness and intelligence. Those qualities comforted and appealed to Isabel and endeared him to her as he proved trustworthy with each encounter. The efforts of Isabel's aunt to match her with another were frustrating and Colin's former flame trying to ingratiate herself back into his affections made me nervous and brought tension to the various romantic angles. Colin's work to solve the case of smuggling in the woods of Emberwilde adds another level of intrigue throughout the story. With everything that is going on, it never felt overwhelming, instead the various aspects wove together and balanced out the pacing. This was a perfect Regency reading experience and I highly recommend Dawn at Emberwilde, especially to fans of Julie Klassen and Sarah M. Eden.
(Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
May 17, 2019
.
This is the 2nd book in the 'A Treasures of Surrey' series. It is able to stand on it's own, which is a major plus for me when reading a series.
The plot, twists, and growth of the characters were very interesting and time related, keeping readers captivated until the very end.
I would recommend this series to all historical readers!
This is the 2nd book in the 'A Treasures of Surrey' series. It is able to stand on it's own, which is a major plus for me when reading a series.
The plot, twists, and growth of the characters were very interesting and time related, keeping readers captivated until the very end.
I would recommend this series to all historical readers!
June 12, 2016
4.5 stars
Whenever I pick up a book by Sarah Ladd, I know I need to make sure I have a few hours carved out to do nothing but read. Why? Because I know I will be unable to do anything but read until I’ve soaked in every delightful word and each exquisite scene. Ladd’s writing evokes Austen or Bronte, a classic British style (from an American, no less) that wraps you in comforting familiarity and may even have you double checking that publication date to make sure it says 2016 and not 1816!
Dawn at Emberwilde is another such book by Sarah Ladd and may in fact be my favorite so far! I devoured it in one sitting this afternoon and I’m already wishing I had time for a re-read. The countryside setting, the vivid characters, the thread of suspense that tunnels through the plot … all of these elements held me captive.
Dawn at Emberwilde is everything I want in a Regency romance. Sarah Ladd immerses readers in the setting with her rich descriptions, and the gentle undertones of mystery added an almost gothic feel to the novel. Delicious swoonworthy romance will have you holding your breath and grinning in delight, though the journey is not without moments of angst that will have you holding your breath for entirely different reasons. The theme of treasure – both literal and metaphorical – continues a bit more loosely perhaps than it did in The Curiosity Keeper but with no less poignancy. (I have my theories on what the literal treasure is in Dawn at Emberwilde but I don’t want to spoil anything for you so I’m keeping it to myself for now.) Though this is the second book in the Treasures of Surrey series, it can absolutely be read as a stand alone with no problems. If you love Jane Austen or Julie Klassen, make sure you put Dawn at Emberwilde at the top of your TBR pile!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Whenever I pick up a book by Sarah Ladd, I know I need to make sure I have a few hours carved out to do nothing but read. Why? Because I know I will be unable to do anything but read until I’ve soaked in every delightful word and each exquisite scene. Ladd’s writing evokes Austen or Bronte, a classic British style (from an American, no less) that wraps you in comforting familiarity and may even have you double checking that publication date to make sure it says 2016 and not 1816!
Dawn at Emberwilde is another such book by Sarah Ladd and may in fact be my favorite so far! I devoured it in one sitting this afternoon and I’m already wishing I had time for a re-read. The countryside setting, the vivid characters, the thread of suspense that tunnels through the plot … all of these elements held me captive.
Dawn at Emberwilde is everything I want in a Regency romance. Sarah Ladd immerses readers in the setting with her rich descriptions, and the gentle undertones of mystery added an almost gothic feel to the novel. Delicious swoonworthy romance will have you holding your breath and grinning in delight, though the journey is not without moments of angst that will have you holding your breath for entirely different reasons. The theme of treasure – both literal and metaphorical – continues a bit more loosely perhaps than it did in The Curiosity Keeper but with no less poignancy. (I have my theories on what the literal treasure is in Dawn at Emberwilde but I don’t want to spoil anything for you so I’m keeping it to myself for now.) Though this is the second book in the Treasures of Surrey series, it can absolutely be read as a stand alone with no problems. If you love Jane Austen or Julie Klassen, make sure you put Dawn at Emberwilde at the top of your TBR pile!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 4, 2016
Oh how I love Sarah. She is such a fabulous writer. Her final romantic endings are always perfectly written! *swoon*
Dear, innocent Isobel has suddenly been removed from her life-in-training as a governess. Found by her long-lost aunt, she’s thrown into life as an upscale lady. She quickly finds that the luxury and prestige come at a great cost and must decide what is the best life for her and her sister.
There are many elements to this story. You’ll find mystery, intrigue, love, lessons, broken hearts, greed, manipulation and much more. What you won’t find is much about God. It could easily sell under a non-christian publisher. Still, it is clean, well written and kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend anything by Sarah E. Ladd!!!!
Thank you for this amazing book in exchange for my review. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
Dear, innocent Isobel has suddenly been removed from her life-in-training as a governess. Found by her long-lost aunt, she’s thrown into life as an upscale lady. She quickly finds that the luxury and prestige come at a great cost and must decide what is the best life for her and her sister.
There are many elements to this story. You’ll find mystery, intrigue, love, lessons, broken hearts, greed, manipulation and much more. What you won’t find is much about God. It could easily sell under a non-christian publisher. Still, it is clean, well written and kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend anything by Sarah E. Ladd!!!!
Thank you for this amazing book in exchange for my review. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
May 25, 2016
3.5 stars
A pleasant romance with a thread of mystery running beneath it. The romance is very sweet, with a second man as a questionable player in the romance (though it isn't a triangle). Isabel's relationship with her sister is sweet, and I liked her cousin Constance also. The leading man is a very good hero, too!
A pleasant romance with a thread of mystery running beneath it. The romance is very sweet, with a second man as a questionable player in the romance (though it isn't a triangle). Isabel's relationship with her sister is sweet, and I liked her cousin Constance also. The leading man is a very good hero, too!
October 30, 2025
We must be kind, even when the world is not. The earlier you learn that lesson, the happier and more pleasant your life will be. 📚☕
Book Two in Treasures of Surrey series (can be read out of order)
I read this book very quickly. When I realized that the Emberwilde forest was basically a character in itself, I was giddy (mysterious forests are one of my favorite things). It’s known by the locals as the Black Forest because of the legends of ghosts and fairies, and the entire story revolves around it.
I found it to be an intriguing story..
There was the tiniest hint of faith and quoting of scripture.
📚 GREAT hero
📚 squeaky clean Regency
📚 Springtime backdrop
📚 mystery, peril, & intrigue
Triggers: Fights among men, boxing
Book Two in Treasures of Surrey series (can be read out of order)
I read this book very quickly. When I realized that the Emberwilde forest was basically a character in itself, I was giddy (mysterious forests are one of my favorite things). It’s known by the locals as the Black Forest because of the legends of ghosts and fairies, and the entire story revolves around it.
I found it to be an intriguing story..
There was the tiniest hint of faith and quoting of scripture.
📚 GREAT hero
📚 squeaky clean Regency
📚 Springtime backdrop
📚 mystery, peril, & intrigue
Triggers: Fights among men, boxing
Read
June 3, 2016Sarah Ladd is a brilliant Regency author with plots that sing, characters you won't forget, and a setting so real I feel like I've traveled to England without the long flight. Dawn at Emberwilde is her latest, and I think my favorite to date.
Isabel Creston finds herself swept into her relatives' home unexpectedly, and it seems her life has taken a turn for the much better. Only problem is there tension between her aunt and uncle, incredible pressure to marry a man she can't quite trust, and concerns for her younger sister. Colin is on the trail of smugglers and danger seems to be invading his small corner of Surrey. Isabel doesn't know who to trust, and Colin doesn't feel free to pursue a relationship. This story is a delightful retreat to old England and has an almost gothic feel with the woods becoming a character in themselves. The intrigue is deep and the mystery enjoyable. The romance was beautiful, and there are several supporting characters I'd love to see in their own books. All in all I inhaled this book as fast as I could find the time. It will delight Jane Austen readers.
May 3, 2016
This was a well done Regency novel. It is the second in the Treasures of Surrey series.
I was swept away with the characters, time period and setting right away through the author's descriptive writing. I enjoyed the inclusion of a couple of mysteries into the plot. The only downside is one of the mysteries was rather easy to solve and the second wasn't fully resolved. Although I would have liked the mystery piece to be a bit stronger, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the novel.
It was pure joy reading the pages of Dawn at Emberwilde. I look forward to the third book in the series which comes out in 2017.
The Treasures of Surrey series is recommended for fans of Julie Klassen. This novel reminded me a great deal of my favorite Klassen novel: The Secret of Pembrooke Park.
And the cover....beautiful and ties in splendidly with the story line.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
I was swept away with the characters, time period and setting right away through the author's descriptive writing. I enjoyed the inclusion of a couple of mysteries into the plot. The only downside is one of the mysteries was rather easy to solve and the second wasn't fully resolved. Although I would have liked the mystery piece to be a bit stronger, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the novel.
It was pure joy reading the pages of Dawn at Emberwilde. I look forward to the third book in the series which comes out in 2017.
The Treasures of Surrey series is recommended for fans of Julie Klassen. This novel reminded me a great deal of my favorite Klassen novel: The Secret of Pembrooke Park.
And the cover....beautiful and ties in splendidly with the story line.
My gratitude to the author for a complimentary copy of the novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
April 1, 2023
This story might have been more melodramatic than its predecessor, but that didn’t hamper my enjoyment of it. I adored the mystery more than almost any other aspect, but the characters were a close second. They were well developed and perfectly cast in the plot. The sisterly love Isabel had for her half-sister was very sweet, and that carried me through the most melodramatic of moments. The romance was tender and exactly what I wanted to read today. I loved that the heroine was courageous and respectful at the same time.
Content: alcohol, mythological statues, profanity
Content: alcohol, mythological statues, profanity
December 24, 2016
Love Austen? Then you'll likely love this one. Suitors. Snarky relatives. The uncertain fate of a young, unmarried woman. All the ingredients are here. I particularly liked the smuggling aspect of the story because, well, smugglers are as awesome as pirates.
August 5, 2016
Such a wonderful, beautiful book!! I loved it many times more then I thought I would! Full review to come! :)
February 22, 2018
I hate, hate giving negative reviews, especially to authors that I have loved up until this point. Ladd has been one of my go-to authors when I want something sweet and regency. This book had two elements that I don't like.
#1. The romance that was based on attraction and feeling alone.
#2. Two characters who just "know" they are supposed to be together. They spend very little of this book in the same room, talk very little, but they just know they are meant to be together. Well, I see that marriage having some miserable years ahead.
The mystery was okay, and the setting was lovely. However, this book just fell flat for me. I hope the next book is more like the other Ladd books I've read.
#1. The romance that was based on attraction and feeling alone.
#2. Two characters who just "know" they are supposed to be together. They spend very little of this book in the same room, talk very little, but they just know they are meant to be together. Well, I see that marriage having some miserable years ahead.
The mystery was okay, and the setting was lovely. However, this book just fell flat for me. I hope the next book is more like the other Ladd books I've read.
March 14, 2017
Originally posted on the March 2017 Mini Review Day post.
This novel is a well-written sweet romance with an intriguing mystery that kept me up reading pretty late. However, I just can’t get over my disappointment over one little detail.
I really enjoyed Treasures of Surrey, Book 1: The Curiosity Keeper (which I mini-reviewed here). It got four stars (the ending disappointed me), but I was hoping we’d get to revisit the characters. After all, as I’ve said before, the ending was a little rocky. I needed closure. But then I find that Dawn at Emberwilde is in no way related to The Curiosity Keeper.
Like, not at all.
I was so disappointed! How could Sarah E. Ladd do this to me? I mean, I guess it’s my fault for not researching the novel before I read it or whatever … but still. So, despite this being a pretty decent novel, I just can’t be fair with it … so it received 3/5 stars. The author cheated. She can’t just create stick together a random bunch of books that aren’t related in any way, shape, or form. Well, I guess she can … but I don’t have to like it. ;)
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
This novel is a well-written sweet romance with an intriguing mystery that kept me up reading pretty late. However, I just can’t get over my disappointment over one little detail.
I really enjoyed Treasures of Surrey, Book 1: The Curiosity Keeper (which I mini-reviewed here). It got four stars (the ending disappointed me), but I was hoping we’d get to revisit the characters. After all, as I’ve said before, the ending was a little rocky. I needed closure. But then I find that Dawn at Emberwilde is in no way related to The Curiosity Keeper.
Like, not at all.
I was so disappointed! How could Sarah E. Ladd do this to me? I mean, I guess it’s my fault for not researching the novel before I read it or whatever … but still. So, despite this being a pretty decent novel, I just can’t be fair with it … so it received 3/5 stars. The author cheated. She can’t just create stick together a random bunch of books that aren’t related in any way, shape, or form. Well, I guess she can … but I don’t have to like it. ;)
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
June 1, 2016
About this book:
“Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.
For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.
The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.
At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.
At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.”
Series: Book #2 in the “Treasures of Surrey” series. (Review of Book #1 Here!) {The books are not connecting at all. Safe to read as stand-alones}
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are read & mentioned; A few mentions of church services & church going; A couple mentions of prayers; A mention of a divine plan;
*Note: Mentions of ghosts, a curse and a haunted forest; A few mentions of goddesses & Greek mythology.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: an ‘Egad’ and a ‘what in blazes’; A bit of sarcasm; Fighting & Pain (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions casks (full of alcohol) & criminal activities (smuggling said alcohol); Mentions of drinking & alcohol; Mentions of gambling, blood, fighting, boxing matches & knives (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of deaths & battles; A few mentions of hunters & traps; A mention of a dead animal stench; A mention of gossips.
Sexual Content- two forehead kisses, a not-detailed kiss and two semi-detailed kisses; Touches & Warmth (barely-above-not-detailed); Quite a bit of Noticing & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); A couple mentions of kissing; A couple mentions of a wet nurse; A few mentions of curves & low bodices; A few mentions of being alone with the opposite gender & reputations; A few mentions of an intimate rendezvous; A few mentions of mentions of betrayal & having feelings for someone; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Isabel Creston, age 20
-Colin Galloway
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1817
330 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
You’ll notice that there isn’t much content noted in this review. While that can be good for the Negative & Sexual Contents (less words = normally cleaner), it’s not the best thing for a Christian book to not have much Spiritual Content. I personally found that department lacking in this book, with no real mentions of faiths or God…only a couple Scriptures are read. I would have liked some more faith parts. I saw quite a few parts where Isabel or Colin could have prayed, but, sadly, didn’t. Three stars means that “I liked this book”, so yes, I did like this book, but it was really light and easy to read. Nothing really stood out to me while reading it. It was a cute romance, but the back-cover made me feel like there would be a love-triangle, but when one of those men are POV characters, it’s not really much of a love-triangle. I liked Isabel & Lizzy and enjoyed the sister moments between them. I might read the next book in the series when it releases in Spring of 2017, but it will depend on the story-line.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*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 (Thomas Nelson) for this honest review.
“Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.
For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.
The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.
At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.
At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.”
Series: Book #2 in the “Treasures of Surrey” series. (Review of Book #1 Here!) {The books are not connecting at all. Safe to read as stand-alones}
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are read & mentioned; A few mentions of church services & church going; A couple mentions of prayers; A mention of a divine plan;
*Note: Mentions of ghosts, a curse and a haunted forest; A few mentions of goddesses & Greek mythology.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: an ‘Egad’ and a ‘what in blazes’; A bit of sarcasm; Fighting & Pain (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions casks (full of alcohol) & criminal activities (smuggling said alcohol); Mentions of drinking & alcohol; Mentions of gambling, blood, fighting, boxing matches & knives (barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of deaths & battles; A few mentions of hunters & traps; A mention of a dead animal stench; A mention of gossips.
Sexual Content- two forehead kisses, a not-detailed kiss and two semi-detailed kisses; Touches & Warmth (barely-above-not-detailed); Quite a bit of Noticing & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); A couple mentions of kissing; A couple mentions of a wet nurse; A few mentions of curves & low bodices; A few mentions of being alone with the opposite gender & reputations; A few mentions of an intimate rendezvous; A few mentions of mentions of betrayal & having feelings for someone; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
-Isabel Creston, age 20
-Colin Galloway
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1817
330 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
You’ll notice that there isn’t much content noted in this review. While that can be good for the Negative & Sexual Contents (less words = normally cleaner), it’s not the best thing for a Christian book to not have much Spiritual Content. I personally found that department lacking in this book, with no real mentions of faiths or God…only a couple Scriptures are read. I would have liked some more faith parts. I saw quite a few parts where Isabel or Colin could have prayed, but, sadly, didn’t. Three stars means that “I liked this book”, so yes, I did like this book, but it was really light and easy to read. Nothing really stood out to me while reading it. It was a cute romance, but the back-cover made me feel like there would be a love-triangle, but when one of those men are POV characters, it’s not really much of a love-triangle. I liked Isabel & Lizzy and enjoyed the sister moments between them. I might read the next book in the series when it releases in Spring of 2017, but it will depend on the story-line.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*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 (Thomas Nelson) for this honest review.
June 1, 2016
“We are each on our own journey, and nothing is by accident.”
How often have you looked back at the end of a trying time and understood that what you first perceived as stumbling blocks turned out to be stepping stones? The quote above is spoken by our heroine, Isabel, near the end of Dawn at Emberwilde, the second in Sarah E. Ladd’s Treasures of Surrey series.
In life, perspective makes all the difference. It can be difficult to remember that God is at work when we are too closely connected to the threads of our own story. Eventually, time and distance allow us to begin to view the larger picture. Though we don’t have the luxury of crystal balls or time machines so that we might anticipate our future, we have certain tools at our disposal: prayer and history. We can learn from our past as well as from the stories of others, fictional characters included.
Isabel’s journey begins at Fellsworth School. Though she is a bit of a dreamer, Isabel would never imagine a future for herself that included grand estates, invitation-only dinner parties, dancing, and marriage. Not a chance! She knows her place in the world, and it’s not attending balls or enjoying “a season” trying to secure the heart (or fortune) of an eligible bachelor. As orphaned wards, she and her little sister Lizzie are likely headed for a life as teachers or governesses. But with the sudden arrival of a tall, dark stranger at Fellsworth, Isabel’s life is turned upside down.
Some readers have referred to Dawn at Emberwilde as a Cinderella story or rags to riches tale. You might also consider Isabel as an “Alice” who has gone down the rabbit hole. Indeed, from a utilitarian life as a charity ward, she is thrust into the extravagant world of the landed gentry. Even more disorienting, although there are no strange women hidden in the attic at Emberwilde, the house does appear to have secrets connected to local lore surrounding dark mysteries in the Emberwilde Forest (or as the locals call it — the Black Forest).
Before I wrap up, I want to take a moment to discuss this as a work of Christian fiction. I’ve seen some readers who have wanted more overt Christianity tied into the novel. Some have even gone so far as to say it could have been released as a general market title. In the 19th-century, perhaps. Today? Not likely. Just because the novel doesn’t evangelize doesn’t mean there aren’t Christian messages. I’d argue that, in a sense, this is more Christian because it’s more realistic. We don’t walk through life being pointed to little signs neatly explaining what God is teaching us. Nor do we often run into people with whom we’ve previously spoken very little and suddenly start speaking at length about God and Jesus. Okay, maybe some of you do. But my life hasn’t worked that way. So why should a novel be expected to do so?
Although this is a romance novel, it’s the mystery and the unanswered questions that kept me happily turning the pages. Not to mention the fact that Isabel’s outsider status allows her a critical appraisal of the so-called “good life” of the wealthy. She’s a heroine worthy of your affection. I only wish we could have had more of her story.
Don’t let the fact that Dawn At Emberwilde is the second in a series deter you; the novel stands completely alone. Although this was my first experience reading a book by Sarah E. Ladd, it has not only found a welcome home in my library, but will soon have the company of other Ladd books. This Regency should find favor with folks who enjoy Julie Klassen or Jane Austen. So what are you waiting for? Pick up a copy of Dawn at Emberwilde today!
Verdict: 4.5 of 5 Stars. A Light Regency Romance With a Touch of Darkness.
The interplay between dark and light in Dawn at Emberwilde makes for a satisfying experience. Like Isabel, readers will be drawn to the mysterious dark woods in search of answers, buoyed by the wise words of her friend Mary, dazzled by the prestige and privilege of wealth, yet confounded at how anyone could choose a life of stability over a home filled with love. Indeed, with Dawn at Emberwilde, Sarah E. Ladd demonstrates that life is neither all light nor all dark, but a delicate dance between the two — one made more secure, not by wealth or status, but by faith and love.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Litfuse Publicity Group and TNZ’s Fiction Guild for providing me with copies of Dawn at Emberwilde in exchange for an honest review. 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.”
How often have you looked back at the end of a trying time and understood that what you first perceived as stumbling blocks turned out to be stepping stones? The quote above is spoken by our heroine, Isabel, near the end of Dawn at Emberwilde, the second in Sarah E. Ladd’s Treasures of Surrey series.
In life, perspective makes all the difference. It can be difficult to remember that God is at work when we are too closely connected to the threads of our own story. Eventually, time and distance allow us to begin to view the larger picture. Though we don’t have the luxury of crystal balls or time machines so that we might anticipate our future, we have certain tools at our disposal: prayer and history. We can learn from our past as well as from the stories of others, fictional characters included.
Isabel’s journey begins at Fellsworth School. Though she is a bit of a dreamer, Isabel would never imagine a future for herself that included grand estates, invitation-only dinner parties, dancing, and marriage. Not a chance! She knows her place in the world, and it’s not attending balls or enjoying “a season” trying to secure the heart (or fortune) of an eligible bachelor. As orphaned wards, she and her little sister Lizzie are likely headed for a life as teachers or governesses. But with the sudden arrival of a tall, dark stranger at Fellsworth, Isabel’s life is turned upside down.
Some readers have referred to Dawn at Emberwilde as a Cinderella story or rags to riches tale. You might also consider Isabel as an “Alice” who has gone down the rabbit hole. Indeed, from a utilitarian life as a charity ward, she is thrust into the extravagant world of the landed gentry. Even more disorienting, although there are no strange women hidden in the attic at Emberwilde, the house does appear to have secrets connected to local lore surrounding dark mysteries in the Emberwilde Forest (or as the locals call it — the Black Forest).
Before I wrap up, I want to take a moment to discuss this as a work of Christian fiction. I’ve seen some readers who have wanted more overt Christianity tied into the novel. Some have even gone so far as to say it could have been released as a general market title. In the 19th-century, perhaps. Today? Not likely. Just because the novel doesn’t evangelize doesn’t mean there aren’t Christian messages. I’d argue that, in a sense, this is more Christian because it’s more realistic. We don’t walk through life being pointed to little signs neatly explaining what God is teaching us. Nor do we often run into people with whom we’ve previously spoken very little and suddenly start speaking at length about God and Jesus. Okay, maybe some of you do. But my life hasn’t worked that way. So why should a novel be expected to do so?
Although this is a romance novel, it’s the mystery and the unanswered questions that kept me happily turning the pages. Not to mention the fact that Isabel’s outsider status allows her a critical appraisal of the so-called “good life” of the wealthy. She’s a heroine worthy of your affection. I only wish we could have had more of her story.
Don’t let the fact that Dawn At Emberwilde is the second in a series deter you; the novel stands completely alone. Although this was my first experience reading a book by Sarah E. Ladd, it has not only found a welcome home in my library, but will soon have the company of other Ladd books. This Regency should find favor with folks who enjoy Julie Klassen or Jane Austen. So what are you waiting for? Pick up a copy of Dawn at Emberwilde today!
Verdict: 4.5 of 5 Stars. A Light Regency Romance With a Touch of Darkness.
The interplay between dark and light in Dawn at Emberwilde makes for a satisfying experience. Like Isabel, readers will be drawn to the mysterious dark woods in search of answers, buoyed by the wise words of her friend Mary, dazzled by the prestige and privilege of wealth, yet confounded at how anyone could choose a life of stability over a home filled with love. Indeed, with Dawn at Emberwilde, Sarah E. Ladd demonstrates that life is neither all light nor all dark, but a delicate dance between the two — one made more secure, not by wealth or status, but by faith and love.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Litfuse Publicity Group and TNZ’s Fiction Guild for providing me with copies of Dawn at Emberwilde in exchange for an honest review. 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.”
May 18, 2016
I think this is my favorite novel by Sarah E. Ladd yet! Never mind that I haven't read the first book of this series, Dawn at Emberwilde was a thoroughly enjoyable read - sweet and suspenseful. A bit of a quick read, with a heartwarming and romantic ending that is fully satisfying!
Book Two to the TREASURES OF SURREY series, this story centers on twenty-year-old, orphan Isabel Creston who is relocating to her aunt and uncle's place, Emberwilde; and Colin Galloway, the local magistrate. As Isabel struggles to find her place at her new home, Colin investigates suspicious activities deep within Emberwilde Forest. All is not as it seems. And Isabel must find who she can trust with her and her sister Lizzie's well-being.
I really like Regency romances. And this one was light and sweet. It did have a generous hint of suspense, but not too heavy. Just about how I prefer! *smiles* I enjoyed the characters of Colin and Isabel ... both relatable and someone you would hope happiness for! There was a hint of a faith theme. I like a deeper Christian aspect, but this did suit Dawn at Emberwilde just fine. As I mentioned, it was more of a light read. A romance to warm your heart. That being said, the romance actually was pretty subtle. But still there, in a way, for the duration of the story. There were a couple kisses exchanged at the end, but nothing more. I have to say, it was rather refreshing. None of those too-soon, passionate kissing scenes. But more of a gentle romance. I quite liked it! ^_^
All in all, I had a lovely time reading this book, and really look forward to reading more by Sarah E. Ladd! Dawn at Emberwilde had a captivating quality to it, and kept me turning pages happily. Heartily recommend to fans of historical, especially the Regency era, romance.
I received a copy of Dawn at Emberwilde from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
Book Two to the TREASURES OF SURREY series, this story centers on twenty-year-old, orphan Isabel Creston who is relocating to her aunt and uncle's place, Emberwilde; and Colin Galloway, the local magistrate. As Isabel struggles to find her place at her new home, Colin investigates suspicious activities deep within Emberwilde Forest. All is not as it seems. And Isabel must find who she can trust with her and her sister Lizzie's well-being.
I really like Regency romances. And this one was light and sweet. It did have a generous hint of suspense, but not too heavy. Just about how I prefer! *smiles* I enjoyed the characters of Colin and Isabel ... both relatable and someone you would hope happiness for! There was a hint of a faith theme. I like a deeper Christian aspect, but this did suit Dawn at Emberwilde just fine. As I mentioned, it was more of a light read. A romance to warm your heart. That being said, the romance actually was pretty subtle. But still there, in a way, for the duration of the story. There were a couple kisses exchanged at the end, but nothing more. I have to say, it was rather refreshing. None of those too-soon, passionate kissing scenes. But more of a gentle romance. I quite liked it! ^_^
All in all, I had a lovely time reading this book, and really look forward to reading more by Sarah E. Ladd! Dawn at Emberwilde had a captivating quality to it, and kept me turning pages happily. Heartily recommend to fans of historical, especially the Regency era, romance.
I received a copy of Dawn at Emberwilde from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.
September 5, 2016
Sarah Ladd just writes good books. I love the Regency era and this is her genre. She does it very well, too. Her books are chock full of great characters, very believable situations and settings, and are so rich and full.
This one, Dawn at Emberwilde, first of all, has a great cover! All her books have great covers, actually. That is what drew me in with the very first one. The secrets hinted at in Dawn at Emberwilde are very spooky and do a great job at convincing the reader that they want to delve deeper into the book.
Ladd is a master at a Regency with dangerous overtones and characters that have not been treated very nicely in their lives. Their souls are explored in depth and the reader, this one, anyway, feels such compassion for them. her writing is always consistent and full of life. She uses descriptions so vividly that the reader feels as if she is there inside the book experiencing everything along with the inhabitants of the book.
I just love Sarah's books and she always has a reader in me.
*I was provided a free copy of this book by Net Galley in exchange for my honest review, which I have given. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.
This one, Dawn at Emberwilde, first of all, has a great cover! All her books have great covers, actually. That is what drew me in with the very first one. The secrets hinted at in Dawn at Emberwilde are very spooky and do a great job at convincing the reader that they want to delve deeper into the book.
Ladd is a master at a Regency with dangerous overtones and characters that have not been treated very nicely in their lives. Their souls are explored in depth and the reader, this one, anyway, feels such compassion for them. her writing is always consistent and full of life. She uses descriptions so vividly that the reader feels as if she is there inside the book experiencing everything along with the inhabitants of the book.
I just love Sarah's books and she always has a reader in me.
*I was provided a free copy of this book by Net Galley in exchange for my honest review, which I have given. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and all opinions are my own.
July 26, 2019
I read this book and the one previous (The Curiosity Keeper) so that I could get a feel for this author...and sadly must say she’s not for me, although the previous book in the series was the superior of the two.
In a Christian romance, I expect a strong moral lesson to become clear - in both I do see that she presses upon us “don’t confuse beauty with goodness” and “be careful whom you trust” but I also see “trust your gut” and “do what feels right” and frankly, I completely disagree with that. I found this, second installment, to have a predictable plot, characters that weren’t fully formed (just hero or villain) and far too much melodrama without a gothic atmosphere to support it. Also - she overused the word “stiffened” which probably just added to my overall annoyance. 2.75 stars /rounded up
In a Christian romance, I expect a strong moral lesson to become clear - in both I do see that she presses upon us “don’t confuse beauty with goodness” and “be careful whom you trust” but I also see “trust your gut” and “do what feels right” and frankly, I completely disagree with that. I found this, second installment, to have a predictable plot, characters that weren’t fully formed (just hero or villain) and far too much melodrama without a gothic atmosphere to support it. Also - she overused the word “stiffened” which probably just added to my overall annoyance. 2.75 stars /rounded up
June 24, 2024
Such a pleasure to read! I liked how matters were resolved, enjoyable read as not too tedious nor frustrating characters/miscommunication. I figured how it would pan out but no odds, it was a treat to get immersed...1817's England in how typical society was back then. It was light on any spiritual elements as Christian/inspirational classification per say but a wholesome and able to be recommended however.
I will certainly be reading some others of hers that I own :)
I will certainly be reading some others of hers that I own :)
January 10, 2020
This was a good story. The middle of the book seemed to not move very quickly. It was easy to listen to and enjoyed the ending to solve all the mysteries and questions.
June 9, 2016
*3.5 stars*
What the book is about:
Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.
For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.
The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.
At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.
At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.
Things I didn't like:
There was no mystery, I figured out what was going to happen like a third of the way through the book. Nothing really surprised me.
Another thing that wasn't a surprise was who Isabel ended up with.
Things I liked:
The dark and mysterious forest, I just loved that.
My two favorite characters were Colin and Lizzie. Colin was just amazing :) and Lizzie was so cute and I loved how fearless she was :)
So part of the ending was cheesy, the other part was really nice.
Favorite quotes:
"But why not? Don't you hate him?" A tear trickled down her cheek. "He must hate us too, otherwise he would not make us leave."
"He does not hate us, but even if he did, we do not hate. We must be kind, even when the world is not. The earlier you learn that lesson, the happier and more pleasant your life will be." (Page 16)
I received a free book from Thomas Nelson/Zondervan Fiction Guild in return for a honest review.
What the book is about:
Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.
For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.
The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.
At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.
At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.
Things I didn't like:
There was no mystery, I figured out what was going to happen like a third of the way through the book. Nothing really surprised me.
Another thing that wasn't a surprise was who Isabel ended up with.
Things I liked:
The dark and mysterious forest, I just loved that.
My two favorite characters were Colin and Lizzie. Colin was just amazing :) and Lizzie was so cute and I loved how fearless she was :)
So part of the ending was cheesy, the other part was really nice.
Favorite quotes:
"But why not? Don't you hate him?" A tear trickled down her cheek. "He must hate us too, otherwise he would not make us leave."
"He does not hate us, but even if he did, we do not hate. We must be kind, even when the world is not. The earlier you learn that lesson, the happier and more pleasant your life will be." (Page 16)
I received a free book from Thomas Nelson/Zondervan Fiction Guild in return for a honest review.
June 13, 2016
Sarah E. Ladd has written a graceful story about a young lady raised in a school for children from homes of lesser means or orphaned. As the book opens, she learns that she is not entirely without family and that she is being claimed and must now journey to the home of a previously unknown aunt.
She is treated as treasured for her beauty and who will be married off as quickly as possible. Without dowry to make a grand marriage, she is to be betrothed to the head of the local foundlings school. She has feelings of uncertainty about this gentleman and fears future involvement.
The beautiful and dark forest seems to beckon her, and her young sister. They are warned to stay away from it because danger lurks within. But little sister, Lizzie, wanders into its depths, gets frightened by some scary men, and hides.
The story meanders along at a gentle pace giving the reader a glimpse into the status a poor relative has in the home of the landed gentry of England in the early 1800s. At her aunt's mercy and having no place else to go, young Isabel tries to adjust. With two handsome young men nearby, her heart discovers qualities and dislikes about them that give her pause to wonder.
A bit of a mystery. A glimpse into social mores of the time. A bit of danger. A sweet little eight year old. And a landed gentleman-magistrate. What an opportunity for a nice read. Written as Christian fiction, it is not pronounced in it's Biblical leanings. The work is clean, gentle, and you won't be afraid to let a young teen or a dear grandmother read it.
I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.
She is treated as treasured for her beauty and who will be married off as quickly as possible. Without dowry to make a grand marriage, she is to be betrothed to the head of the local foundlings school. She has feelings of uncertainty about this gentleman and fears future involvement.
The beautiful and dark forest seems to beckon her, and her young sister. They are warned to stay away from it because danger lurks within. But little sister, Lizzie, wanders into its depths, gets frightened by some scary men, and hides.
The story meanders along at a gentle pace giving the reader a glimpse into the status a poor relative has in the home of the landed gentry of England in the early 1800s. At her aunt's mercy and having no place else to go, young Isabel tries to adjust. With two handsome young men nearby, her heart discovers qualities and dislikes about them that give her pause to wonder.
A bit of a mystery. A glimpse into social mores of the time. A bit of danger. A sweet little eight year old. And a landed gentleman-magistrate. What an opportunity for a nice read. Written as Christian fiction, it is not pronounced in it's Biblical leanings. The work is clean, gentle, and you won't be afraid to let a young teen or a dear grandmother read it.
I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.
August 8, 2016
DNF (70%)
**I received a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Dawn at Emberwilde is a very sweet book with great writing, but, unfortunately, it felt too slow for me.
The plot is very interesting. We have Isabel Creston, a young woman with only a sister to call family, until relatives she didn't know she had invite her to live with them. Isabel has no choice but to accept, and take her younger sister, Lizzie, with her. At Emberwilde, Isabel and Lizzie have to learn to be proper ladies, and realize that their lives have greatly changed.
With her new situation, Isabel can start thinking about things like marriage, and there are two candidates available. I wouldn't really call this a love triangle though, I think it's made clear very early in the book who holds her interest.
Another important part of the story is the presence of criminals at the property, the forest, to be more precise. Colin Galloway, one of Isabel's suitors, is following the trail of dangerous men prowling the area, but things seem to be more complicated than he thought.
This book did hold my interest for a while, but as the story progressed, I felt that it was all going too slow, both the romantic part and the mystery with the forest criminals. Still, it seemed like a very nice story and the writing was really good. I'd say you might want to give this a try if you're a fan of sweet regency books.
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
**I received a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Dawn at Emberwilde is a very sweet book with great writing, but, unfortunately, it felt too slow for me.
The plot is very interesting. We have Isabel Creston, a young woman with only a sister to call family, until relatives she didn't know she had invite her to live with them. Isabel has no choice but to accept, and take her younger sister, Lizzie, with her. At Emberwilde, Isabel and Lizzie have to learn to be proper ladies, and realize that their lives have greatly changed.
With her new situation, Isabel can start thinking about things like marriage, and there are two candidates available. I wouldn't really call this a love triangle though, I think it's made clear very early in the book who holds her interest.
Another important part of the story is the presence of criminals at the property, the forest, to be more precise. Colin Galloway, one of Isabel's suitors, is following the trail of dangerous men prowling the area, but things seem to be more complicated than he thought.
This book did hold my interest for a while, but as the story progressed, I felt that it was all going too slow, both the romantic part and the mystery with the forest criminals. Still, it seemed like a very nice story and the writing was really good. I'd say you might want to give this a try if you're a fan of sweet regency books.
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
June 30, 2016
Jane Austen lovers will adore this beautiful tale of love, adventure, and trust. Written with stunningly accurate historical detail and woven with suspense, I fell in love from the first page on!
Colin is the very best kind of hero. Strong, sure, honest, kind, brave, honorable…the knight in shining armor descriptors go on and on. Add in a pair of beautiful and confused sisters, a couple of suitors, and a bucketful of romance and suspense, and let the adventures begin!
While Dawn at Emberwilde is the second book in the Treasures of Surrey series, it is read as a stand alone. Find out for yourself what a treasure it is!
Don’t believe that this is something even the youngest of “chapter book readers” can dig into? Check out the thoughts of my 13-year-old sister! She normally hates reading books she considers too “mature for a teenager”,not so this time:
” This book is absolutely captivating, and has you hanging on to every word with a dream of what the characters are like!! I adore this book and would read it again in a heartbeat…”
_______________________________________________________
*My Rating*
I give Dawn at Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd…
5 stars!!
_______________________________________________
*I received this book from Litfuse, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.
Colin is the very best kind of hero. Strong, sure, honest, kind, brave, honorable…the knight in shining armor descriptors go on and on. Add in a pair of beautiful and confused sisters, a couple of suitors, and a bucketful of romance and suspense, and let the adventures begin!
While Dawn at Emberwilde is the second book in the Treasures of Surrey series, it is read as a stand alone. Find out for yourself what a treasure it is!
Don’t believe that this is something even the youngest of “chapter book readers” can dig into? Check out the thoughts of my 13-year-old sister! She normally hates reading books she considers too “mature for a teenager”,not so this time:
” This book is absolutely captivating, and has you hanging on to every word with a dream of what the characters are like!! I adore this book and would read it again in a heartbeat…”
_______________________________________________________
*My Rating*
I give Dawn at Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd…
5 stars!!
_______________________________________________
*I received this book from Litfuse, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.
June 14, 2016
I really enjoyed this new book from Sarah E. Ladd! It has just enough mystery and intrigue to keep you guessing and a lovely dose of romance to warm your heart. :)
I really like how the mystery and the romance unfolded in this book. There was enough suspense to keep your attention throughout the book with a satisfactory conclusion. And the romance of two handsome yet vastly different men attracting Isabel's attention was well done. You felt the ease of the attraction to the mysterious Mr. Bradford yet you also feel the draw to the steadiness and character of the handsome Mr. Galloway.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters. Isabel's sister Lizzie had a fun personality and helped relieve some of the somberness in several situations. Isabel's cousin Constance was, for the most part, a real help and friend to Isabel in the new world she found herself in. Mr. Galloway's big, burly, friend and co-worker, McKinney, was fun to imagine. And his cousin, Henry, was a good support to him also.
All in all, this book is very well written with a gentle pace that will be easy to follow and very enjoyable. Oh, and I can't forget the setting! The description of the countryside and the Emberwilde forest makes you want to live there! :)
*Thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
I really like how the mystery and the romance unfolded in this book. There was enough suspense to keep your attention throughout the book with a satisfactory conclusion. And the romance of two handsome yet vastly different men attracting Isabel's attention was well done. You felt the ease of the attraction to the mysterious Mr. Bradford yet you also feel the draw to the steadiness and character of the handsome Mr. Galloway.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters. Isabel's sister Lizzie had a fun personality and helped relieve some of the somberness in several situations. Isabel's cousin Constance was, for the most part, a real help and friend to Isabel in the new world she found herself in. Mr. Galloway's big, burly, friend and co-worker, McKinney, was fun to imagine. And his cousin, Henry, was a good support to him also.
All in all, this book is very well written with a gentle pace that will be easy to follow and very enjoyable. Oh, and I can't forget the setting! The description of the countryside and the Emberwilde forest makes you want to live there! :)
*Thanks to Litfuse and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
October 20, 2024
"My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up."
Isabel Creston's life takes an unexpected turn when she receives the news that an estranged aunt is offering her a home and all the benefits of a privileged lifestyle. Having lived most of her life at the Fellsworth School, benefiting from the charity of others, Isabel dares to hope for a brighter future for herself and her little sister, Lizzie.
Arriving at the grand Emberwilde estate curiously breeds a sense of unease; an aura of family secrets surrounds the vast property and societal expectations effectively suffocate the freedom that Isabel so desperately craves. When two handsome men vie for Isabel's personal attention, she is faced with a dangerous choice. Only one can truly hold the key to her heart, while the other may not be at all who he declares himself to be.
Sarah Ladd's books just keep getting better and better. "The Dawn of Emberwilde" is an inspiring story of faith and determination, expertly woven with suspenseful romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
Isabel Creston's life takes an unexpected turn when she receives the news that an estranged aunt is offering her a home and all the benefits of a privileged lifestyle. Having lived most of her life at the Fellsworth School, benefiting from the charity of others, Isabel dares to hope for a brighter future for herself and her little sister, Lizzie.
Arriving at the grand Emberwilde estate curiously breeds a sense of unease; an aura of family secrets surrounds the vast property and societal expectations effectively suffocate the freedom that Isabel so desperately craves. When two handsome men vie for Isabel's personal attention, she is faced with a dangerous choice. Only one can truly hold the key to her heart, while the other may not be at all who he declares himself to be.
Sarah Ladd's books just keep getting better and better. "The Dawn of Emberwilde" is an inspiring story of faith and determination, expertly woven with suspenseful romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 3, 2016
3.5 stars
A pleasant story about a young woman, Isabel, who was brought up in a foundling home. She has the guardianship of her younger half sister, Lizzie, and is training to be a teacher or a governess. Suddenly a strange man shows up at the school and tells her she has long lost relatives who want her to come live with them.
They are rich and live in a beautiful house called Emberwilde. She is living a widely different life full of luxury and ease. She is being courted by two men- Mr. Bradford, head of the local foundling home and Mr. Galloway, local magistrate and land owner. Still she is not really comfortable with her new life.
There is a smuggling operation going on in the town and secret tunnels. It has lots of local color and it is quite interesting to read of the times. I didn't realize it was a romance story until I got it and I probably wouldn't have ordered it if I had known. Still I liked it and it's story line really elevated it. If you like romance stories this is great.
Thanks to Net Galley for the book.
A pleasant story about a young woman, Isabel, who was brought up in a foundling home. She has the guardianship of her younger half sister, Lizzie, and is training to be a teacher or a governess. Suddenly a strange man shows up at the school and tells her she has long lost relatives who want her to come live with them.
They are rich and live in a beautiful house called Emberwilde. She is living a widely different life full of luxury and ease. She is being courted by two men- Mr. Bradford, head of the local foundling home and Mr. Galloway, local magistrate and land owner. Still she is not really comfortable with her new life.
There is a smuggling operation going on in the town and secret tunnels. It has lots of local color and it is quite interesting to read of the times. I didn't realize it was a romance story until I got it and I probably wouldn't have ordered it if I had known. Still I liked it and it's story line really elevated it. If you like romance stories this is great.
Thanks to Net Galley for the book.
May 31, 2016
One thing I genuinely love about Sarah Ladd's books is their gentle gracefulness and sweetness; her books are just right to read on a cozy day with a blanket and a cup of tea.
I enjoyed the plot of this books, especially the mysterious forest aspect of it. Sometimes I did get a little annoyed with Isabel, since I didn't always agree with her methods of raising Lizzie and even agreed with her difficult aunt upon a occasion. So while I admit that Isabel did take a little while to grow on me, I certainly had sympathy with her situation. (There's no question that I liked Colin, though!)
At any rate, this is a lovely historical read for romance fans.
I received this book through litfuse publicity. It did not affect the honesty of my review in any way.
I enjoyed the plot of this books, especially the mysterious forest aspect of it. Sometimes I did get a little annoyed with Isabel, since I didn't always agree with her methods of raising Lizzie and even agreed with her difficult aunt upon a occasion. So while I admit that Isabel did take a little while to grow on me, I certainly had sympathy with her situation. (There's no question that I liked Colin, though!)
At any rate, this is a lovely historical read for romance fans.
I received this book through litfuse publicity. It did not affect the honesty of my review in any way.
August 13, 2016
My Thoughts:
It's been a while since I read one of Sarah Ladd's books. I've forgotten how much I enjoyed them.
While this is book 2 in the series, it stands alone, and one does not need to have read book 1 in order to enjoy this one. I was quickly drawn into the story, and I found myself intrigued by Isabel.
As for the two men who vie for her attention and affection, there was one I liked more than the other. I was rooting for him the entire time.
I also enjoyed the fact that this book had a touch of mystery in it that added to the richness of the story.
I received this book for free from BookLook Bloggers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of: Jane Austen, Julie Klassen, Jody Hedlund
Rating - 4 stars
It's been a while since I read one of Sarah Ladd's books. I've forgotten how much I enjoyed them.
While this is book 2 in the series, it stands alone, and one does not need to have read book 1 in order to enjoy this one. I was quickly drawn into the story, and I found myself intrigued by Isabel.
As for the two men who vie for her attention and affection, there was one I liked more than the other. I was rooting for him the entire time.
I also enjoyed the fact that this book had a touch of mystery in it that added to the richness of the story.
I received this book for free from BookLook Bloggers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of: Jane Austen, Julie Klassen, Jody Hedlund
Rating - 4 stars
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