What if the title, the estate, the life of security and splendor… what if it isn’t enough?
Strong-willed and beautiful, debutante Katherine Ramsey feels ready to take the London social season by storm, and she must. Her family estate, Highland Hall, has been passed to older male cousin Sir William Ramsey, and her only means of securing her future is to make a strong debut and find a proper … debut and find a proper husband. With her all-knowing and meddling aunt as a guide, Katherine is certain to attract suitors at the lavish gatherings, sparkling with Great Britain’s elite.
When a shocking family scandal sidelines Katherine, forcing her out of the social spotlight, she keeps a low profile, volunteering with the poor in London’s East End. Here Katherine feels free from her predictable future, and even more so as a friendship with medical student Jonathan Foster deepens and her faith in God grows. But when Katherine is courted anew by a man of wealth and position, dreams of the life she always thought she wanted surface again. Torn between tradition and the stirrings in her heart for a different path, she must decide whom she can trust and love—and if she will choose a life serving others over one where she is served.
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This is the second book in the Edwardian Brides series. Having read the first book The Governess Of Highland Hall I would recommend reading them in order so that you are able to see the metamorphosis that Katherine Randall undergoes, but this book can be read as a stand alone novel. This series has a lot of elements similar to Downton Abbey if you were a fan – meaning you enjoy the main characters stories as well as other characters stories simultaneously. In this book Katherine Randall is 18 and about to start her season in London with her presentation to the Royal family in order to find an eligible suitor. She dreams of finding a wealthy, titled husband and finds all of those qualities in Edward Wellington but as she grows her priorities change and she finds her heart pulling her towards John Foster, a medical student, and her cousins future brother-in-law.
Giving vivid entry into an Edwardian England setting, from genteel ball rooms to the gritty streets of London’s East End, author Carrie Turansky has created a cast of multi-layered, delightfully written characters I found engaging from beginning to end. The Daughter of Highland Hall is at its heart a story of personal courage, one sure to please fans of Turansky’s The Governess of Highland Hall, as well as readers coming fresh to the series with this book.
This is a great story. The girl who thinks she needs an estate falls in love with needy children. And maybe a handsome medical student too.
A compelling, Edwardian love story that crosses class divides, where characters learn that snagging a titled and wealthy spouse is not the first concern of life. Carrie Turansky’s meticulously researched and beautifully written novel lifts the heart, drawing the reader closer to Christ and reminding them of the possibilities of a faith-driven marriage. Characters that inspire readers to rekindle their romance with the Lord of life as well as with their own husband . . . how many books can do that?
Katherine “Kate” Ramsey’s life is about to take off with a splendid debut into society, hopefully resulting in a much needed match for the young woman who is currently dependent on her older cousin, Sir William and his wife, Lady Julia, Ramsey. However, family scandals have a way of changing the best laid plans at any moment.
As Kate’s plans change and evolve, she forms a friendly relationship with Dr. Jonathan Foster, Lady Julia’s younger brother. Kate finds strength and a purpose in assisting Dr. Foster in the rougher neighborhoods of London. As her friendship deepens, Kate must make difficult choices in selecting a path for her future.
Filled with faith and family, this second book in the series continues the story of the Ramsey family highlighting their differences with typical Edwardian society. Read this charming story with deep tones of faith and finding oneself to discover what life choice Kate decides on in the end.
This ARC copy was received from Waterbrook Multnomah and Netgalley. The above thoughts and opinions are wholly my own.
Interesting historical fiction written with Christian messages in a setting like Downton Abbey. The wild child finds love, purpose and a mission.
The Daughter of Highland Hall is the second book in the Edwardian Brides series and from beginning to end, I felt as if I was part of the Ramsey family. This is one of my favorite books so far this year! In fact, the opening scene where Kate is learning to curtsy, and Jonathan sees her, is one of the most delightful I have read in a long time.
Carrie Turansky’s research into the Edwardian Era shines as brightly as freshly polished silver. The scenery, the language, the dress and etiquette all blend beautifully within the walls of Highland Hall. This story reads like a classic novel with its delicate blend of mystery, intrigue and romance.
If you enjoy Historical fiction, I believe you will be enthralled with this latest novel in The Edwardian Brides series. I know I completely enjoyed the hours I spent in a Downton Abbey like atmosphere. There are funny moments that will have you chuckling and serious moments that will draw upon your heartstrings. But the highlight of the story for me is that of Kate’s faith journey. It is superbly written and executed!
I want to thank the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. No monetary compensation has been received.