In Regency England, one letter will alter a young woman’s fate when it summons her to Briarton Park—an ancient place that holds the secrets of her past and the keys to her future.

Cassandra Hale grew up knowing little about her parentage, and she had made peace with the fact that she never would. But Cassandra’s world shifts when a shocking deathbed confession reveals a two-year-old letter from Mr. Clark, the master of Briarton Park, with hints to her family’s identity. Stung by betrayal, she travels to the village of Anston only to learn Mr. Clark has since passed away.

James Warrington is a widower and the new master of Briarton Park, where he lives with his two young daughters, his sister, and his mother-in-law. When Cassandra appears at his doorstep with a letter from the previous owner and then proceeds to assist his family in an unexpected way, he is honor bound to help uncover the answers she seeks.

The more time Cassandra spends in Anston, the more she begins to suspect not everything—or everyone—is as they seem. As details emerge, the danger surrounding her intensifies. Using wit and intuition, she must navigate the treacherous landscapes between truth and rumor and between loyalty and deception if she is to uncover the realities of her past and find the place her heart can finally call home.

Sarah Ladd’s latest Regency romance, first in the new Houses of Yorkshire series, combines mystery and intrigue with the best of historical storytelling.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for letting me read this book prior to its publication. My opinion is 100% honest and unbiased. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for letting me read this book prior to its publication. My opinion is 100% honest and unbiased. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I wanted to read this book because I am a sucker for all things Regency thanks to my love for Jane Austen. And this book seemed to combine two of my favorite things: the Regency period and a mystery of sorts. I say “of sorts” because the story was quite predictable, so no real mystery. An orphan, a mysterious letter, unlikely villains, predictable twists, and a hero that was quite cookie-cutter in structure. Nothing new or scintillating here, but at least it was a quick and enjoyable read. Something light for the weekend.

The development of the characters was good, but I had a hard time to believe I was reading about the Regency period. I didn’t get the characteristic features of the period and some things confused me.

Overall, a quick and light read that I found underwhelming.

So, for all of that, I give this book… 3 TEA CUPS!