A few weeks ago, while touring St. George, Utah, my husband and I stopped in at a Deseret Book. Two authors were there introducing and signing new books and, because it was early evening, the store was relatively empty. One of those authors was Julie Wright, who I recognized from a Facebook group I follow. She had two new books, one of which was Windsong Manor. I apologized for not buying it there, confessing that I prefer digital ebooks on my Kindle, but she was very nice and I was captivated by the plot. After several attempts to find it on library sites, I relented and ended up buying it, hoping that I would not regret my purchase.
I did not. In fact, Windsong Manor is now in my special collection of “Kristie’s Favorites” in my Kindle, a file I only reserve for those rare books who draw me in and transport me completely.
The plot: Eleanora Coventry is a baroness and a young widow. Her late husband was much older and domineering and her young son, who was sent away to school, has returned with all of his father’s worst traits. To add to her challenges, Eleanora “Nora” has also been tasked to raise her late husband’s illegitimate daughter, a recent orphan and the product of an embarrassing affair. Life is topsy turvy.
In an effort of lead a quieter life, Nora moves her family from their London townhouse to Windsong Manor, the late baron’s country home that he rarely visited. While finding her way as a single mother with two challenging children, Nora befriends the quiet stablehand, Ridley Ellis. Despite his social station, Ridley moves and speaks like a gentleman, and his calm influence on everyone around him is felt deeply by Nora and the children.
The writing is as wonderful as the plot is intriguing. Nora and Ridley’s characters are excellently developed, with terrific dialogue and pacing. Both are strong and steadfast in the midst of their many challenges. Their kindness to each other and others makes this story one of warmth and depth. I loved every bit of it and highly recommend this book for a very satisfying read. It will leave you with renewed faith in people and modern literature.
9.5/10 Stars
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