Encouraged by her grandmother, Harriet, Grace is to take up a post as a governess at Fenix House. Harriet worked as a governess in the same house some thirty years ago and Grace has grown up with stories of Fenix House and the staff and family. Advised to keep her connection to her grandmother a secret Grace goes to Fenix House and finds it and the family somewhat diminished, but is intrigued to find some of the same characters there that her grandmother told her about. However, it becomes apparent the version of events she has known differs from what the family remember.
This historical fiction novel spans from the late nineteenth century to the early twentieth century and is told in a way that weaves Harriet ‘s experience with her grand-daughter, Grace, which has the story unfolding in almost mirror image.
There are many mysteries, first and foremost, why would Harriet want Grace to take a post at Fenix House and not mention her? What happened between Harriet and the lady of house? And ultimately who was Grace’s biological grandfather? Among many more.
Intrigue is rife in this novel and I was drawn to wrap up all the lose ends served in the course of the book. However, there were times when the sedate pace of the story was working against keeping my interest and I wished the story would move quicker.
If you’re in no rush to get to the punchlines then this book will probably appeal immensely but as gripped as I was by the characters and the mystery I did wish it got to the point a little quicker.
Links To Book:
Amazon UK
Amazon US
Goodreads
Ajoobacats Blog 
Interesting to hear you say you found this moved at a leisurely pace. I found the same with ‘the Tea Planter’s Wife’ (Dinah Jeffries) who gives it a puff on the cover. Yes, one wants to see the scenery, but not to sit down all afternoon with it … š
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I really want to read The Tea Planter’s Wife. It’s odd that sometimes a flowery description feels right (Khaled Hosseini) but other times it just slows everything down like speed bumps. It was hard as there were so many questions that needed an answer but the narrative showed no urgency in telling us its secrets.
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I wish I had time to read some of these! Somehow things are piling up on me.
If you get a chance, try “Venom House” by Arthur Upfield–a very offbeat mystery, set in a very out-of-place grand house in the Australian Outback.
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I will add it to your list of recommendations. I find I get more time to do stuff by taking decent breaks. Go figure.
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I find the same – mo’ better breaks: more achieved. Gives one a chance to clear one’s mind and make a plan (subconsciouly if nothing else).
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I’m an all or nothing type, so it’s difficult for me to completely take time out from reading and I have had to train myself to diversify my time, but it definitely pays dividends in the long run.
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Hi, I just wanted to let you know I appreciate your support of my newest review and want to remind you that the giveaway starts at midnight if you are interested. Thank you!
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You’re welcome š
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