A Winter by the Sea by Julie Klassen

Goodreads ~ Apple ~ B&N ~ Google Play ~ Kobo ~ Amazon

1819 – England

Royalty comes to Sidmouth, bringing unexpected danger and the sweet possibility of romance. . . .

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their daughter–the future Queen Victoria–rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal family’s male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they’ve invited secrets and intrigue into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers longs to become an author. A local publisher offers to consider her novel if she will first write a Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily agrees and begins researching the area with help from the Duke of Kent’s handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she’s long held dear and her budding dreams for the future.

One Comment

A royal visit from a prince.
Master storyteller Julie Klassen has brought reality into this series by giving an account of a royal visit by baby Victoria and her parents, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, to the Village of Sidmouth. I was fascinated by the details of the visit and the pomp associated with it. Ms. Klassen has woven her characters into the lives of the royals and their entourage in an engaging way. The Summers sisters and their mother are hosting several of the household staff of the Duke.
This book showcases Emily Summers and her aspiration to become an author. I was glad to see Mr. Gwilt from book one, had written a book about Parry the Parrot and that Emily was encouraging him to publish the work.
Ah Emily. She has been pining for Charles, an old friend from back home, who she has not heard from in over a year. However, when James, secretary to the Duke, boards with the Summers at Sea View, Emily takes particular notice. She will have to seek God’s will and search her own heart for answers to her confusing emotions.
This was a sweet, engaging story with many interesting details and some exciting and tragic scenes. Especially helpful was a map of the village.
I am looking forward to book three from this English seaside village in 1819.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*

Inspirational Historical Fiction Index

Christian Historical Fiction sorted by setting, period, historical events, and more.

A Winter by the Sea by Julie Klassen