The House at Riverton is a gorgeous debut novel set in England between the wars. It is the story of an aristocratic family, a house, a mysterious death and a way of life that vanished forever, told in flashback by a woman who witnessed it all and kept a secret for decades. Grace Bradley went to work at Riverton House as a servant when she was just a girl, before the First World War. For years her … her life was inextricably tied up with the Hartford family, most particularly the two daughters, Hannah and Emmeline. In the summer of 1924, at a glittering society party held at the house, a young poet shot himself. The only witnesses were Hannah and Emmeline and only they — and Grace — know the truth. In 1999, when Grace is ninety-eight years old and living out her last days in a nursing home, she is visited by a young director who is making a film about the events of that summer. She takes Grace back to Riverton House and reawakens her memories. Told in flashback, this is the story of Grace’s youth during the last days of Edwardian aristocratic privilege shattered by war, of the vibrant twenties and the changes she witnessed as an entire way of life vanished forever. The novel is full of secrets — some revealed, others hidden forever, reminiscent of the romantic suspense of Daphne du Maurier. It is also a meditation on memory, the devastation of war and a beautifully rendered window into a fascinating time in history. Originally published to critical acclaim in Australia, already sold in ten countries and a #1 bestseller in England, The House at Riverton is a vivid, page-turning novel of suspense and passion, with characters — and an ending — the reader won’t soon forget.
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Kate Morton came into my life just under 3 years ago. I don’t remember how, but I picked up one of her books and absolutely fell in love with her writing style, characters, and multi-dimensional storytelling abilities. After almost 3 years, I’ve finished reading all 6 of her books; it’s a tad amusing that the last one I read is actually the first …
I love Kate Morton, and her debut was no less wonderful than the others I’ve read by her: The Forgotten Garden and The Secret Keeper. You should totally read this if you’re like me and will read anything about English manor homes at the turn of the twentieth century (think Downton Abbey).
Captivating, a real page turner and a writer who knows her craft – beautifully researched, wonderfully emotional. A must read if you love a good story, so well written and so well told.
Great book!
Especially the ending the book has a great locomotion to its addictive- do-not disturb-me- until it has been finished. Warning: you do need patience with the first 3/4 of the book but found it worth sticking it out within the last 1/4 of the book.
Kat Morton’s books are very interesting to read. I love her characters and story line.
She really should write more novels. Each one is so special. The characters are believable and interesting. The plot inviting. You will see unusual character development.
Love anything Kate Mortonson writes!
Kate Morton’s books I can read over and over. Wish there were more
Kate Morton at her best! Thoroughly enjoyed the twisty premise. It has prompted me to read many more Kate Morton novels.
A little slow moving, but good story with interesting characters.
Anything by Kate Morton is a delight. She never disappoints.
Great story across generations! Love Kate Morton books!
This is the story of Grace Bradley, who went to work at Riverton House as a servant when she was just a girl, before the First World War. For years her life was inextricably tied up with the Hartford family, most particularly the two daughters, Hannah and Emmeline. In the summer of 1924, at a glittering society party held at the house, a young …
I loved this book & all of her other ones too.
Kate Morton makes an artform of flashbacks in this novel about a lifestyle that no longer exists. Recommended for anyone who appreciates historical fiction with a romantic (and nostalgic) twist.
One of my favorite novels. Kate Morton is an excellent story teller. I enjoy the dual timeline. Morton is an expert at this. A compelling story that can be read multiple times.
Kate Morton is a gifted writer. I’ve read all of her books at least twice! She transports the reader to another time and place while her characters are so vivid, it’s easy to picture their faces. I look forward to her next book and have my imaginary bags packed for a wonderful adventure!
This is probably my favorite Kate Morton book. She’s such a fabulous writer. If you like different timelines running parallel in a book that expertly cross paths and tie up at the end, look no farther! I love Morton’s prose and the way she includes so much detail with making it tedious. Just like sprinklings that make the story truly glisten. …
A beautifully written book, that was a pleasure to read. The heartbreaking misunderstanding revealed at the end, the icing on the cake. Loved it.
Highly recommend.