Rich with family secrets, lingering danger, and the captivating allure of new love, this Regency romance introduces us to the Twethewey family and their search for peace, justice, and love on the Cornish coast.Cornwall, England, 1811—Blamed for her husband’s death, Cordelia Greythorne fled Cornwall and accepted a governess position to begin a new life. Years later her employer’s unexpected death … governess position to begin a new life. Years later her employer’s unexpected death and his last request for her to watch over his five children force her to reevaluate. She can’t abandon the children now that they’ve lost both parents, but their new guardian lives at the timeworn Penwythe Hall . . . back on the Cornish coast she’s tried desperately to forget.
Jac Twethewey is determined to revive Penwythe Hall’s once-flourishing apple orchards, and he’ll stop at nothing to see his struggling estate profitable again. He hasn’t heard from his brother in years, so when his nieces, nephews, and their governess arrive unannounced, he battles both grief at his brother’s death and bewilderment over this sudden responsibility. Jac’s priorities shift as the children take up residence in the ancient halls, but their secretive governess—and the mystery shrouding her past—proves to be a disruption to his carefully laid plans.
Praise for The Governess of Penwythe Hall:
“Absolutely captivating! Once I started reading, I couldn’t put down The Governess of Penwythe Hall. This blend of Jane Eyre, Jane Austen, and Jamaica Inn has it all. Intrigue. Danger. Poignant moments. And best of all a sweet, sweet love story. This is by far my favorite Sarah Ladd book. Don’t hesitate to snatch up this title!” —Michelle Griep, Christy Award–winning author of the Once Upon a Dickens Christmas series
“Brimming with dangerous secrets, rich characters, and the hauntingly beautiful descriptions Sarah Ladd handles so well, 1800s Cornwall is brought vividly to life in this well-crafted tale that kept me glued to the pages. What a brilliant start to a new series!” —Abigail Wilson, author of In the Shadow of Croft Towers
“The Governess of Penwythe Hall is a delightful and emotionally gripping tale that will tick all the boxes for any Regency lover: romance, history, and enough unpredictable intrigue to keep you up past your bedtime.” —Kristi Ann Hunter, author of A Defense of Honor
“Lovers of sweet and Christian romance alike will fall in love with Delia’s strength amid the haunting backdrop of her tragic past and the Cornish coast. Throw in a handsome leading man willing to turn his life upside down for the children in Delia’s charge, and you have a story you can’t put down.” —Josi S. Kilpack, Whitney Award–winning author of the Mayfield Family series
- First book in the Cornwall novels (The Governess of Penwythe Hall, The Thief of Lanwyn Manor, and The Light at Wyndcliff)
- Sweet, full-length Regency romance at 90,000 words
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I couldn’t put it down. Story building and wonderful characters had me on page one. It’s about a father who dies and a governess who cares for his five children.
The Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah Ladd is a real treat! I was instantly hooked by the adventure, mystery, and romance depicted. When I had to, I struggled to put this book down. I adored the unique and vibrant characters. The settings are perfectly crafted as it felt like I was in Cornwall in 1808 with Delia, Jac, and the children. And, I am a big fan of the relationship between Delia and Jac. It progressed from two adults thrown into a delicate situation who became friends first and then, at the right time, love blossoms appropriately and sweetly. The Governess of Penwythe Hall is an all-around good story!
One of the many obstacles in Delia’s life is fear. Her past is filled with serious darkness and great sadness, and her future is completely uncertain. Delia’s past and future create a fear in her that sometimes seems paralyzing. For a brief moment, it looks like fear may win out, but Delia forces herself to overcome. I appreciate the subtle discussion about fear that is weaved throughout the narrative. Fear is definitely something I have struggled with, and from time to time I still struggle with today. In this, I felt Delia is a very relatable character. In fact, Delia’s battle with fear and how she deals with it in the story reminds me of my dad. My dad never wanted fear to rule his life, but he had fears. When my dad was right out of high school he enlisted in the Army and purposely signed up for the 82nd Airborne Division because he hated heights. He believed the best way to overcome his fear of heights was to parachute out of airplanes over enemy territory. I personally think that was insane, but I do appreciate that he refused to let fear overcome him. Both my dad and Delia remind me of Romans 8:14-15: For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father! My dad, and fictional Delia, was/is led by God’s Spirit. I believe the bravest thing anyone can do is trust God, recognize what things they fear, and then purposely take those fears on in order to be an overcomer. To me, that is authentic strength, and that is what makes Delia such an outstanding character in this story and what made my dad such an outstanding man in real life.
The Governess of Penwythe Hall is a fantastic story that I very much enjoyed reading, and highly recommend. I am sad that my time with Delia and Jac is over. If you are looking for an engaging story filled with intrigue and sweet romance then The Governess of Penwythe Hall is the book for you!
I received a copy of this novel in paperback form from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, in order to review. I also purchased an eBook copy of this novel from Amazon on May 19, 2019, to read and review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This novel has it all. Twists, turns, love, betrayal. It was a book I fell into and was so sad to see it end. A delightful read Regency fans will enjoy.
I have enjoyed many books by Sarah Ladd, and The Governess of Penwythe is definitely one of my favorites. I listened to the audio version and enjoyed the narrator’s voice and interpretation of the story. Sarah Ladd brings Cornwall to life and made me fall in love with the characters and setting. Highly recommended for all who enjoy Regency romance and are looking for stories with depth and inspiration.
In The Governess of Penwythe Hall, Ladd’s trademark handling of setting, characters, and romance are back in full force. The harsh landscape of Cornwall comes to life, complete with its dramatic coastline and the seemingly endless moors. This is just the place that widow and governess Delia Greythorne is forced back to after the death of her employer. Cornwall, a place of heartache for her, might hold the keys to moving on with her life, if she can combat dangers arising from her past.
After a slow start, it was hard for me to put this one down. The plot builds nicely, each element building on another to create an entertaining read. Delia is a strong character, but not unrealistically so. She is fully aware of her position in the world, but still retains her dignity. One of my favorite parts of the story is the blossoming relationship between Jac Tretheway, Penwythe Hall’s owner, and the orphaned children. His priorities must shift, and I enjoyed his shift from duty to love.
This is a lovely opening to Sarah E. Ladd’s new series, and I eagerly await The Thief of Lanwyn Manor’s release in 2020. Recommended to fans of historical romance with a healthy dose of intrigue and a dash of suspense.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion.
The Governess of Penwythe Hall is a delightful and emotionally gripping tale that will tick all the boxes for any Regency lover: romance, history, and enough unpredictable intrigue to keep you up past your bedtime.
Lovers of sweet and Christian romance alike will fall in love with Delia’s strength amid the haunting backdrop of her tragic past and the Cornish coast. Throw in a handsome leading man willing to turn his life upside down for the children in Delia’s charge, and you have a story you can’t put down.
Brimming with dangerous secrets, rich characters, and the hauntingly beautiful descriptions Sarah Ladd handles so well, 1800s Cornwall is brought vividly to life in this well-crafted tale that kept me glued to the pages. What a brilliant start to a new series!
I know that when I read a book penned by Ms. Ladd that I will be in for quality Regency reading but I think she may have exceeded my expectations in this first book in her new Cornwall series. In this beautifully crafted story I felt like I was there with the characters during the difficult times and the good times.
It’s one of those novels where I was captivated from the very beginning which was refreshing and made me want to turn the pages as fast as could. Yet, I was conflicted because I wanted to stretch this one out for as long as I could so that I could enjoy the beautiful description of the Cornwall coast that I could easily see in my mind and to hear the conversations that took place there.
This amazing storyline has a touch of suspense with a bit of romance and well crafted characters which in my view makes The Governess of Penwythe Hall a must read. I will be anxiously waiting for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Set in Regency England this story has plenty to enjoy. A Mystery to solve, danger lurking around the corners, and a tender thread of romance. For those who love Jayne Eyre, and works of Jane Austen, this new story from Sarah Ladd is sure to bring you page-turning enjoyment.
Cordelia (Delia) has a shadowed past, a heartbreak that weighs heavy and marks her decisions for the future. She has a tender heart and shows a mothers’ love for the five young charges in her care. But when her past begins to catch up with her, and truths long are hidden become known, will the future she hoped for crumble to ash or be reborn with a new future, one that she didn’t even dare dream of?
I enjoyed the story, and I found the characters to be believable and likable, yet for some reason, I just couldn’t connect with them. I would have liked to have been given a few more breadcrumbs to piece together the mystery of Delia’s past a little sooner. I felt like by withholding her back story for as long as it was, that it prevented me to connect with her as I would have liked.
The mystery kept me engaged and turning pages to find out what would happen next. I appreciated the historical aspects of the story. A poignant reminder that even despite our grief and fear, our faith in God will carry us through the darkest of days. For those who love stories set in Regency England, this story is one you won’t want to miss.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Author Sarah Ladd does a superb job of putting her reader in England during the Regency era. I enjoyed each page of this book. Her characters are well developed and realistic to that era. The descriptions of events and the countryside are enthralling.
With emphasis on family, we also read about secrets, smugglers, and danger. And of course a light romance thrown in for good measure. Overcoming grief and looking to the future added to the realism of this story.
The Governess of Penwythe Hall was a treat to read! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
The Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah E. Ladd
Labeled a Christian book I almost set it aside as this is not my favorite genre of book. That said, I am glad I did read this story as it was well worth reading. Cordelia is a widow who finds herself working as a governess far from where she grew up. When the last of the parents of the five children in her and the tutor’s care dies they are sent back to Cornwall to live with one of their charge’s relatives. It is not an easy adjustment and much transpires between the first and last page of the book. Some of the characters that seem nice enough prove to be just the opposite and at times there are tragic and even fearsome events that occur. There is a romance that is slow growing and a delight to watch, bad people that get their comeuppance while others get away with quite a bit and an eventual happily ever after for Cordelia and the man who makes her happy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
Oh, Sarah Ladd will pull you into her beautiful world of Regency England with its prim and proper glamour, betrayal, intrigue, and time-old loyalty and love of family. The author is a master of Regency storytelling and her enchanting writing style has no rival. The plot is well-crafted with plenty of surprises along the way. And the charterers! Their real, flawed yet brave hearts will capture yours from page 1. If you enjoy historical romance, this book is a must-read.
Cordelia is a widow with a tragic and secretive past who’s devoted her life to rearing the young Twethewey children as their governess. When the children’s father dies from a tragic accident, they, along with Cordelia and their tutor, are sent to Penwyeth Hall under the guardianship of their estranged uncle Jac. Unfortunately Delia’s past follows her into this new life and she must join forces with Jac to provide for and protect their young charges. Delia and Jax’s relationship is slow and fraught with misunderstandings, yet tender and sweet as well. There is much loss in both of their lives, as well as in the childrens’ lives, but healing comes in the form of love that holds on even in the face of adversity.
It seems that this is the first novel in the Cornwall series; I can’t wait to read the next book and see which character it will feature.
I was given a copy of the book from Thomas Nelson via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
The Governess of Penwythe Hall is a beautifully crafted novel. Cordelia “Delia” Greythorne is a strong woman who starts over after the death of her husband. She is afraid of her in-laws and she hopes that they never find her. Unfortunately, circumstances put her back in Cornwall and the inevitable happens. Delia is a likeable character who is loyal, hardworking, intelligent, and loving. You can tell she loves her young charges and wants to keep them safe. Delia is raising them to be thoughtful, caring individuals with faith in God. Jac Twethewey is a dashing man who is working hard to restore Penwythe Hall. He is not the type to make plans and order others to do the work. He is out working in the orchards every day. The arrival of more people puts a burden on his already strained finances. Sarah Ladd brought Cornwall alive for me with her writing. I could smell the sea air and see the craggy cliffs, the dangerous moors, and the beautiful Cornish coastline. Ms. Ladd gave readers lavish descriptions of this beautiful area. The romance is the type that progresses slowly (goes with the time period). We must remember that people did not express their feelings the way we do now, nor did couples get the opportunity to be alone together (that could ruin a lady’s reputation). Christian elements are woven in with the story. Jac’s Aunt Charlotte is a woman of strong faith and she was a charming addition to The Governess of Penwythe Hall. The children provide touching situation and humor especially Sophy. The mystery enhanced the story. I loved the addition of the secret and the smugglers. I could just imagine the boats bringing in their ill gotten booty onto the beach to hide in secret places along the Cornish coastline. The ending was a little rushed, but I did appreciate the epilogue. It was also interesting to learn more about apple presses and how they worked. My favorite phrase from The Governess of Penwythe Hall is “we are promised that when we rely on Him for strength, we will have what we need to face our challenges”. The Governess of Penwythe Hall has intrigue, romance, family, friendship, grief, faith and humor. This is my favorite book by Sarah E. Ladd to date. I am eager to read the next installment in The Cornwall Novels.
This is my first Sarah E. Ladd novel, but it won’t be my last! The Governess of Penwythe Hall is a delightful regency romance that brings Cornwall to life. From a struggling estate to smugglers to orphaned children in need of a family, this book brings together a delightful mix of tension that kept me reading despite a slow start. I loved Delia. Despite her secrets, she still faces the world with hope and courage. I loved Jac’s determination to save Penwythe Hall and how he opens his heart to the nieces and nephews he finds himself the guardian of. I also loved how Delia and Jac help each other grow, becoming stronger as they work together to save the home and children they both love. This was a fun read and a great way to kick off a series, especially for fans of Christian fiction.
A lovely Regency romance with a hint of mystery set in beautiful Cornwall, England.
Cordelia “Delia” Greythorne has a tragic past shrouded in mystery. After fleeing from Cornwall from her late husband’s family, she takes up a post as a governess. For three years, she is able to forget the loss of her husband and infant daughter, and the trouble with his family of smugglers. But when her employer dies and she is sent with his children to live with their uncle in Cornwall, her past comes back to haunt her.
The story reminds me of Poldark with a little dose of Jane Eyre. I enjoyed the romance between Delia and Jac and seeing his frosty exterior melt as he grew to love his nieces and nephews. For Delia, it’s a story of faith and healing, as she learns to move past her grief and trust that God has a plan for her life.
I bought this book for the beautiful cover, but the inside did not disappoint!
I know I’m in for a great story when I pick up a Sarah E. Ladd book, and The Governess of Penwythe Hall definitely met my expectations. Ladd is one of my favorite historical Christian fiction authors. She is a master at creating colorful, realistic, and engaging characters and placing them in intriguing settings and situations. Cordelia Greythorne is an appealing, competent, and caring heroine, and Jac Twethewey is a fantastic hero who takes on five nieces and nephews when his brother dies. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow as they worked through the problems the author created for them. There’s plenty of intrigue, suspense, romance, and some inspiration which combine to make this a solid read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Wonderful Read
Having placed this book on my wish list, I was excited to receive The Governess of Penwythe for Christmas. This is a clean romantic regency, and while I usually like my reads a little steamy, I found this book had everything I could want in a story. The characters and storylines were captivating with mystery and intrigue, trials and triumphs, and humor and romance. I treated myself for the day with Jac and Delia’s story, reading straight through to the amazing finish. I enjoyed the strengths of the bonds that grew within the family and especially the children. Anxious to read another Sarah E. Ladd Cornwall novel.
What a lovely governess who loved the children she watched over.
Sarah Ladd never disappoints! Though this book and Delia Greystone has more than its share of tragedies, there is a strong message of love and hope in this book. As Delia works to mother five orphaned children as a governess, she has a laundry list of challenges in her way. The children’s guardian, their uncle Jac, is trying to make his orchards and cider press pay out so that he can restore his family legacy, Penwythe Hall. Delia’s past comes back to haunt her as she faces one trial after another. This one has a really wild ending, so enjoy! Happy Reading!