Julie Klassen (1) (1964–)

“For the first time in years, the rusty hinges of his shuttered heart gave an experimental creak.”
Julie Lessman entices the reader into the world of the Jane Austen era with beautifully crafted sentences like this. Lessman’s latest offering, The Shadows of Swanford Abbey, is wonderfully stuffed with mystery, Regency-era (even a bit of Gothic) romance, and faith.

It is March of 1820 in Worcestershire, England.
Rebecca Lane returns home to care for her foundering brother. His problems are show more deeper than Rebecca realized, and she must board at a nearby hotel, where a famous writer is in residence.

A former family friend who is also their landlord, Frederick Wilford, is staying at this hotel. Wilford’s manor renovations, started by his deceased wife, were never completed. Before his marriage, young Rebecca carried a torch for Frederick. Can she hide the embarrassment of that attraction now?

So many different characters to puzzle out, whether Rebecca’s brother, John, Miss Selina Newport or Lady Fitzhoward, to name a few of the supporting cast. What fun it is when there are several well-thought-out and presented mysteries to try to work through before all is revealed.

Rebecca is greatly loyal, but that lands her in a heap of trouble. “She just wanted her brother back as he had once been, but she feared that John was gone forever.” She wants to help John, but how far will she go in the name of brotherly love? What will that do to the attraction that is finally blossoming between her and her erstwhile unrequited love? One thing she does realize is this:
“Family . . . once gone, there’s no replacing them.”

A ghost. Secrets of the former convent. Relationships are hidden, some for nefarious reasons, some discarded in the shadows of the past. What will come to light at the end?

Lovers of Regency Romance, who also want faith and mystery will devour this Lessman novel, as will historical buffs. Definitely discovering I have not read enough of Julie Klassen’s expertly crafted Regency tales! Hand me another, please!!

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bethany House via NetGalley. No positive review was required. All opinions are my own. show less

The lovely cover, an intriguing premise, and an author known for writing appealing historical fiction combined to entice me to read this book, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Although it’s the second in a series, it is can be easily read as a standalone book. I’ve read many of Julie Klassen’s stories, and I’m always impressed by her careful historical accuracy and knowledge of the time periods and customs of those times. It allows me to be fully immersed in the story.

Set show more against the backdrop of the Devonshire coast in 1819, A Winter by the Sea swept me away and kept me engrossed throughout. The characters are carefully drawn and realistic. This book spotlights Emily Summers and James Thomson, the Duke of Kent’s private secretary. When the Duke and Duchess of Kent come to Sidmouth for the winter, the Summers sisters are asked to house some of the royal couple’s staff while they are there. The other Summers sisters, especially Sarah, had fairly large roles in the tale and added depth and interest. I’m looking forward to more about them in the next book in the series.

Based on actual happenings, this tale is entertaining and informative. I enjoyed learning more about this piece of English history. The author’s note in the back of the book provided a look into the author’s research and was very much appreciated. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers through Interviews and Reviews. All opinions are my own. show less

This one reached deeper than I expected.

Yes, it’s cozy and Christmas-rich, full of charm and gentle romance. But beneath the twinkling lights and sisterly laughter, there was something else … something that felt like a quiet unraveling of control, and a sacred invitation to let go.

One line undid me: “Sarah Jane Summers. Do you hold my life in your hands, or does God?”

I’ve carried that question. Still do, every day. As a caregiver, I’ve tried to hold it all: schedules, safety, the show more what-ifs no one else sees. This moment in the story wasn’t just simple, fluffy dialogue. It was a reminder. A strong, truth-filled reminder. An amazing release.

And then this: “I know He has not changed. I’m the one who has grown distant, busy trying to manage everything and everyone on my own… And yet, I have also seen God’s provision in ways I never would have asked for or imagined.”

Those words felt like a spotlight — as if I was seen and heard. Truth spoken gently over me, echoing the gratitude I carry for every single detail of every single minute.

Sarah’s journey met me where I am … in the tension between responsibility and rest, duty and desire, and profound love, dedication, and honor that run beneath and between it all. And Georgie’s added joy and sparkle to it all, like laughter in a room that needed light.

This story is a gentle call to remember Who truly holds the seasons, the stories, and the ones we love.

Perfect for those who love stories with cozy warmth, quiet faith, and characters who walk tenderly through life’s deepest questions.

I received a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book and audiobook review are my own. My review focuses on the writing, the story’s content, and the narration ensuring transparency and reliability. show less

An intense Regency romance which brings to mind hints of Jane Eyre, Ethan Frome, and First Knight, Julie Klassen's Lady Maybe held me captive from word one. This story of riveting secrets, love... polygons (too complicated for a simple triangle lol), and colorful characters reminds us of the power of our choices - past, present, and future.

The main character is torn between three different suitors, all good men in their own right, all men for whom she has different measures of affection. show more Right up until she made her choice, I was honestly not sure who she would pick. But she chose well. Over the course of the novel, my heart had softened toward this man & I know I would have been very disappointed if he had not been the victor.

Lady Maybe is rich with Julie Klassen's stellar trademark writing voice and her ability to craft a beautifully poignant story. While a bit more sensual than her previous works, the story remains clean and carries a sweet element of faith that refreshes the swirl of deceit. There are moments when you will hold your breath, moments where you will smile, moments where you will tear up, and moments when you will cheer out loud. But in every moment you will be entranced. show less