Set adrift on the tides of fate by the deaths of her parents and left wanting answers, Laura Callaway now lives with her uncle and his disapproving wife in North Cornwall. There she feels like a castaway, always viewed as an outsider even as she yearns to belong.
While wreckers search for valuables along the windswept Cornwall coast–known for its many shipwrecks but few survivors–Laura … survivors–Laura searches for clues to the lives lost so she can write letters to next of kin and return keepsakes to rightful owners. When a man is washed ashore after a wreck, Laura acts quickly to protect him from a local smuggler determined to destroy him.
As Laura and a neighbor care for the survivor, they discover he has curious wounds and, although he speaks in careful, educated English, his accent seems odd. Other clues wash ashore, and Laura soon realizes he is not who he seems to be. Despite the evidence against him, the mysterious man might provide her only chance to discover the truth about her parents’ fate. With danger pursuing them from every side, and an unexpected attraction growing between them, will Laura ever find the answers she seeks?
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A Wonderful Peek into Another World
Beautifully written with fantastic characters. The story gives you a real feel for their world and way of life. Inspirational and romantic at the same time. I enjoyed it.
A Castaway in Cornwall is an intriguing story for the glimpse it gives us into another way of life in Cornwall. The taking of plunder was so common, the residents of that coastline never considered the loss shipwrecked items were to the rightful owners. A lost bible, a crate of rum, all for the taking and who would be the wiser. It appeared to be a sport that gathered many to the shoreline in the hopes of finding something worthwhile.
For Laura, it was an altogether different thing. She searched for life, and would be a healer for anyone who needed care. I admired her spirit. Wise beyond her years, she had an innate ability to see what others could not see. She did discover treasures on the shore, but her treasure trove was stored until such time she could restore those treasured items to those rightful owners. The arrival of the stranger, handsome and mysterious set the stage for a poignant love story that sets Laura onto a path that she was destined to take.
The setting of this story is colorful and well described. I would love to visit this area and the vast cliffs and stormy seas. One could almost feel the storms and see the raging sea. This is a book for those who enjoy historical fiction and a bit of adventure!
Laura Callaway feels like an outsider in the coastal Cornwall village where she resides with her uncle, and his wife. Laura wanders the beaches after the wrecks, gathering things of value in hopes of returning them to their rightful owners, but when a mysterious man washes up on the beaches she feels compelled to help him, but feels that there is more to his story than he has revealed.
Laura finds herself unsure of where to turn and risking it all for a man rescued from the wreckage. Julie Klassen brings the salty coastal air of Cornwall to life in this mysterious tale of sacrifice, risk, and identity. I loved how Laura had many close supportive friends, who helped her over the course of the book, Wenna, and even her stepsister, Eseld.
Engaging from the start, I loved the beautiful coastal setting of Cornwall, though I felt like the pace slowed in the mid-section and I questioned some of the character’s choices. This was a pleasant read, with themes of faith and friendship, trust, and belonging, as well as intriguing characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I have recently become hooked on Julie Klassen’s books, and this one didn’t disappoint. Set in a coastal Cornish town, A Castaway in Cornwall checked all the boxes for me! There was romance, inspiration, intrigue, and a satisfying ending.
Laura Callaway has herself been a castaway of sorts. Relegated to life with her uncle in Cornwall after her parents’ deaths, she’s trying to find her own path. She salvages items from shipwrecks and restores them, and when a handsome, injured stranger washes ashore, she does the same for him. Alex has secrets, though. Is he who Laura thinks he is? Can she trust him?
I enjoyed everything about this book, which surprised me because there was so much detail about the sea and shipwrecks in the beginning. I worried that would distract me from the story. However, Klassen wove those details in and I ended up learning so much! All of the characters were multi-dimensional, which I really enjoyed. We were able to root for the good guys but still feel compassion toward the villains.
Aside from the stunning cover, my favorite thing about this book, and what will stick with me most, is the parallel between Laura’s tendency to rescue and restore lost items and the way God redeems us, even when circumstances seem impossible. Like her Savior, Laura was able to see the beauty in items others would have tossed aside. I love the way Julie Klassen tells us the gospel story in subtleties and with beautifully penned images. Well done!!
5/5 Stars!
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with an Advance Release Copy. My opinions are my own!
“Flotsam or jetsam?” This is the opening line of Julie Klassen’s latest, A Castaway in Cornwall. Such a great opening line when you realize exactly what it means in the context of the story. Not having seen Poldark (I know, I know) I have heard that the opening scenes are Poldarkish, but I can’t deny nor confirm, since I have not watched that series. However, we start with Laura Callaway walking along the shore looking for objects washed up on the shore. Of course, there is a shipwreck and that’s where our hero of the story comes in. I loved every second of this book, intrigue, secrets, a search for belonging, and struggles to do what is right in a world turned upsidedown by the war between England and France. Escape into history and a love story with this beautiful book by Klassen. I found myself reluctant to come up for air. Enjoy!
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
This story was so unlike any I’ve read before. The characters and the setting were so different from what I am used to in Historical Romance Novels. The heroine Laura, is living where she doesn’t quite fit in. After her parents died she was adrift, and thankful to have distant family take her in. Laura had no clue how different other peoples customs and ways of life could be. It was so fun seeing the “Cornish ways” through her eyes, and I couldn’t imagine living in so different a place and seeing the things she did. I can imagine how poverty could cause people to do things that we might see as inhumane and weird, but to them it was just a way to provide for their families.
I loved watching the romance grow between Laura and the man she rescued. In a world torn by war it’s hard to know who can be trusted, and no one can blame anyone for being weary of strangers. Love might not know the difference between sides, but secrets often have a way of revealing themselves. This story was so unpredictable and I enjoyed every moment of it. I found myself feeling a range of emotions from total elation to completely nervous. I loved how Laura cared for others, and longed to bring comfort to the loved ones of those lost to the sea. I had the hardest time putting this book down. And when I wasn’t reading, found my mind wandering back to the story and dying to pick it back up again. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
I’ve never been to Cornwall but I feel as though I’ve just paid a visit to this special area in England. Cornwall, where shipwrecks often occurred and searching for treasure among the wreckage was a common practice among the inhabitants. Laura Callaway, however, chooses to focus on the people involved in those tragedies as she concentrates on the families left behind. Instead of plundering, she wants to nurture and her true nature is never more evident than when she finds a shipwreck survivor and takes him home to nurse him back to health.
A Castaway in Cornwall is Regency fiction at its finest. There is intrigue associated with war and smuggling and questions about Alexander Lucas’s true identity. Klassen teases us with Laura’s interest in this unknown survivor and I kept hoping that Laura’s gentle and trusting nature wasn’t being taken advantage of. Laura is an outcast needing to experience the joy of belonging and I love when she finally understands that all of us are valuable in God’s eyes.
This is a wonderful story of love and forgiveness and I recommend A Castaway in Cornwall to all who enjoy inspirational historical romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. There was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.
Moving and enchanting:
True to her other works, this book flowed seamlessly with beautifully written prose. It was full of adventure, mystery and a gentle romance. It was interesting discovering more about life on the Cornish coast during the Napoleonic war, which was rife with smugglers, spies and danger.
It had a bit of a slow start but it kept my attention and I enjoyed the various twists and turns along the way. I connected with both of the main characters and although Laura and Alexander faced numerous obstacles and challenges, I was so pleased when things worked out for them. There were also an enjoyable cast of supporting characters who livened up the story and gave it depth.
Overall I found this standalone book really interesting and the light Christian message uplifting.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Laura captures my heart! As she tries to solve the mystery at hand I feel for her as I too have felt like a castaway. It’s adventurous, mysterious, romantic, and the waves pulled me into the depth of my soul searching for a place of belonging. The satisfying ending left me smiling and pondering for days to come.
Julie Klassen’s A Castaway in Cornwall is a sweeping tale with mystery, romance, and adventure.
I wasn’t sure about this novel at first, and it took me a few chapters to get into it. But once I was sucked in, I was invested and ready to reach the ending.
Klassen blends suspense and romance with a historical setting that is rich and vibrant. This small parish on the coast of Cornwall almost felt like home, and the rich characters that populate this village seemed like old friends.
And by characters, I mean characters. From wrecker Tom Parsons to gentle giant Jago. I couldn’t help but love each one. But Alexander definitely grabbed my interest from the moment he opened his eyes in the Brays’ guest room. The melding of his secret with Laura’s protectiveness drove the plot as hurdles appeared and friendships were tested. I found myself entranced as clues were slowly revealed and everything began to come together.
The story definitely took a surprising turn, which I don’t want to spoil for you. But it deepened the plot and forced the characters to face their past in an unexpected way, leading to a satisfying ending.
There’s also a great spiritual thread about God’s hand in our lives. Klassen ties in the castaway theme with this thread, and I don’t know how to fully explain. You’ll just have to read it to find out.
Overall, A Castaway in Cornwall is a satisfying Regency romance filled with intrigue and adventure.
(Note: I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.)
Julie Klassen is one of my top fave authors of Gothic Regency and although ‘A Castaway in Cornwall’ is less on the eerie, gothic side—it’s still a beautifully written novel of betrayal, intrigue, the heartbreak of war, and forbidden, unrequited, and poignant love.
The beauty of the Cornwall coast with its grassy cliffs and lovely flowers that grow even on the hard rocks and sandy shore, is also a place of gross darkness and loss—known for its many shipwrecks and few survivors. It is there that our lovely heroine, Laura Callaway, daily walks the shore looking for treasures and clues to the owners’ next of kin, and ultimately finds her destiny. With memorable characters, an overlying thread of forgiveness, and a well-researched plot…be sure to order your copy today!
*I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.*
Seriously I am never disappointed when I read a Julie Klassen book. She is one of my favorites not only because the stories are incredible but she has a way of transporting you to the setting that she is writing about. There is so much detail and little things that make you feel like you are there. You can tell that she really does her research and she loves doing so. I’m so excited to be part of her launch team for this book and being able to share it with all of you!
Like I mentioned Julie has a knack for taking you back in time and placing you in the setting. I felt like I was there in Cornwall which was great because it reminded me of one of my favorite shows Poldark. There is a part in the book where the villagers are pillaging on one of the ship wrecks and that immediately brought back a similar scene from Poldark season 1 episode 8. (yes, I am a nerd and if you watch it don’t spoil it. I haven’t watched season 4 yet.) So it was neat to make that connection.
Let’s chat about the main characters because they were superb! You can’t help but fall in love with Laura. She seems like the timid, shy, girl at first but she definitely stands on her own two feet and is quite independent. However, she doesn’t feel like she belongs in Cornwall and who can blame her as the town treats her like an outsider and so does her Aunt Mrs. Bray. Oh boy was she something else almost like the wicked step mother from Cinderella. But Laura does go through a change in the story and sees that belonging is not about people accepting you but rather being in tune to God and finding a home with Him.
Laura’s uncle however supports the things she does and backs her up as much as he can, especially when she brings a survivor from a shipwreck home. Alexander is his name and right away you know that a love story will blossom but it takes a while but it was well worth the wait. In the mean time so much more happens and we meet some other characters that are extremely important for the story line and the developing of the story. Some you will love like Mrs. Chegwin and Jago, there are others like Tom Parsons that you will detest and some that you will wonder about! I don’t want to spoil but know that there is definitely a little mystery, suspense and romance all written perfectly and in an engaging way. If you enjoy Klassen’s books or historical fiction I definitely recommend you grab this one.
(I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. The views expressed are only my honest opinion.)
A Castaway in Cornwall has one of the best book covers for 2020!
Is this story as lovely as its cover?
Yes. Yes, it is.
Sometimes it’s difficult to write a review, because honestly, all I want to do is tell everyone they need to read this book.
So, that’s what I’m doing. Read this book!
This story has it all – romance, intrigue, vibrant characters and poetic storytelling in a mysterious, dreamy setting!
I absolutely recommend this book!
A Castaway in Cornwall is available now – visit Baker Book House or Christian Book to purchase your copy!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Julie Klassen and Bethany House Publishers. A positive review was not required. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
I did enjoy this story very much. It really describes how life was in the area at this time, with the shipwrecks, the wreckers and how hard life was for some people. Laura was living with her uncle by marriage and his second wife but she always felt like an outsider, as she hadn’t been born in Cornwall. She was a very caring person and did what she could to help people. Alexander Lucas, was shipwrecked near where Laura lived and Laura helped nurse him back to health. There is a mystery surrounding Alexander and gradually this unfolds through his memories. Alexander and Laura began to develop feelings for each other but their circumstances didn’t help. There are some dangerous events, but also happy ones and definitely a very satisfying ending. I enjoyed reading about the way the community would help one another. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I will always treasure this book. Could it be due to being a Poldark fan? Not really. This book takes place in the same geographical area though.
The high risk adventures are throughout along with a sprinkling of romance with several characters. Mysterious and dangerous men are lurking everywhere it seems which held my attention and kept the pages turning!
I loved how well Julie Klassen researched this era, the early 19th century, and how I felt like I knew the main characters that are so gradually developed.
This is a must read!
It was so wonderful to travel across the pond to visit Cornwall. Julie Klassen has such an amazing way of bringing the reader into the 1800s! I’m always transported to somewhere in England (and this time France) that I just have to visit! Cornwall, England anyone?
I don’t know if this is the right thing to admit or not, but I will read a Julie Klassen novel and never bother to read the back because she’s one of my favorite authors. I always know I’ll get what I’m hoping for, which is to be whisked away into historical romance!
I really liked getting to know Laura Callaway. Being an outsider to the ways of the Cornish, you know that she is blazing her own trail and while she wants to respect their way of living, her “upcountry” upbringing seems to set her apart. Which, when she’s faced with rescuing the man who has washed ashore, instead of leaving him to die as Tom Parsons would’ve preferred. Now that’s a fella who isn’t likable at all!
As always, Julie writes the leading men in such a way that they’re mysterious and dashing all at once. She certainly knows how to make them irresistible. Not only to the leading ladies, but I know we readers enjoy them just as much! hahahaha I mean, she writes about this shipwreck survivor and I don’t think any of us would mind running into him in a dark alley. 🙂 I don’t want to give too much of this guy away since not much is known about him from the summary!
It was really easy to feel incredibly disconnected to the “not so family” family Laura ends up living with. I was so thankful for the character of Eseld. She actually ended up being one of my favorite characters. As timid as she is to follow her mom’s orders, you can tell there’s a stubborn streak laying deep inside her.
Of course the story comes with bad guys who are slippery buggars who seem to weasel their way out of horrible situations. The louts!
I’d like to point out all of the research the author has done for this story. It is truly mind boggling to me everything they have to learn and study to make the story not only come to life, but be true to the history. I can’t even begin to imagine putting in that much time simply to write a novel. We’re definitely the ones who win in the end. I had no idea about Jersey. Never even heard of it until this story. And sakes alive, I know absolutely nothing about boats, but it was fascinating to read about how different ships can get through different levels of water.
Also, now I want to read the books that she quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I don’t know about you, but I’ve never wanted to visit Cornwall, but do now. Obviously it would be a 2020 version so maybe not as Klassen as I’d like it to be.
I know with how the book ends we wouldn’t get to have a stand alone story about one of the supporting characters, but I really ended up liking Treeve. He’s a friend of Laura’s who is constantly trying to either flirt with her or get a rise out of her. While he seems to be questionable at times, I really ended up liking his character.
As a side note, the cover of this book (front, side, and back) are absolutely stunning. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen a pearlescent book cover, but this one has it and it’s really unique. The designer did a beautiful job!
*I am on Julie Klassen’s launch team. This is my personal opinion.
A Castaway in Cornwall by Julie Klassen is a stand-alone book set in picturesque North Cornwall in the early 1800’s. Laura Callaway lives with her aunt and uncle on the coast of England. She makes it a point to walk the beach looking for things that have washed up on shore from shipwrecks along the coast. A man is washed ashore after a wreck and Laura rescues him. She takes care of him and nurses him back to health. But is he who he says he is or is he a danger to them all? I enjoyed reading about the customs of Cornwall and getting to know the people from Fern Haven. Laura was such a compassionate, loving person. And yet she was strong and resourceful. The romance between Alex and Laura was very sweet and the mystery of the story did not take away from that. Another great story from Ms. Klassen.
I received this book from the author for my honest review.
A story of shipwrecks and smugglers in a time of war. Orphaned Laura Callaway lives with her uncle by marriage and his second wife, in a small Cornish village. One of her projects is to try and identify shipwreck victims by their personal belongings and give their families closure. After one tragic incident she rescues a near dead man, going by the name, Alexander Lucas and nurses him back to health. However, as the days go by and her feelings for Alexander grow, she finds herself embroiled in treasonous acts.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Castaway in Cornwall is such a wonderful book. The setting of Cornwall is magnificent and yet, dangerous and mysterious in its own right. I have read several stories of the unique customs of the area, including the history of the dangerous shoreline, where ships would be thrown upon the rocks and then what’s left of the ship the winds would finish demolishing it. Very few of the ships crew would be saved. Then there were wreckers, who deliberately shown lights during the storms to lure them onto the rocky shore. So the smugglers could reap the contents of the ship. Laura lives with her uncle after the death of her parents, but she never feels like she belongs so she spends her time finding things that are lost with the hope that she can return them to their owner. That is what’s left after the wreckers take their haul. She carefully cleans each item and writes a note of which person, {a description as best she can} it was found on or near and the date of the wreck. After a severe storm the men that washed ashore and are alive are taken up to the main house of her uncle. When Alexander washes up on the shore during a storm, Laura immediately sets out to do what she can to help him. But this mystery man is clearly more than he appears. He is definitely hiding something. I loved the slow, respectful development of their relationship……Oh there is so much to this story that will keep you reading on and on. I heartily recommend this book, you will not be disappointed……I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley and voluntarily chose to review it. I loved it.
Fans of regency historical fiction will find a new book to love in Julie Klassen’s A Castaway in Cornwall. With wonderful attention to detail, Ms. Klassen spins an exhilarating tale filled with shipwrecks, smuggling and romance. The vivid setting of the Cornish coast almost appears as a character itself under Julie Klassen’s pen. I loved the quotes the author included at the beginning of each chapter. These snippets from the past gave historical authenticity to the story playing out within the pages of the book. The theme of finding a place to belong, family and forgiveness tugged at my heart. Julie Klassen proves once again why she is one of favorite authors. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.