Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Book Review: Dawn at Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd


Purchase HERE

Title: Dawn at Emberwilde

Author: Sarah E. Ladd

Series: Treasures of Surrey #2

Genre: Historical

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.

For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.

The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.

At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.

At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.

~ MY REVIEW ~
**4 stars**


I think this is my favorite novel by Sarah E. Ladd yet! Never mind that I haven't read the first book of this series, Dawn at Emberwilde was a thoroughly enjoyable read - sweet and suspenseful. A bit of a quick read, with a heartwarming and romantic ending that is fully satisfying!

Book Two to the
TREASURES OF SURREY series, this story centers on twenty-year-old, orphan Isabel Creston who is relocating to her aunt and uncle's place, Emberwilde; and Colin Galloway, the local magistrate. As Isabel struggles to find her place at her new home, Colin investigates suspicious activities deep within Emberwilde Forest. All is not as it seems. And Isabel must find who she can trust with her and her sister Lizzie's well-being.

I really like Regency romances. And this one was light and sweet. It did have a generous hint of suspense, but not too heavy. Just about how I prefer! *smiles* I enjoyed the characters of Colin and Isabel ... both relatable and someone you would hope happiness for! There was a hint of a faith theme. I like a deeper Christian aspect, but this did suit Dawn at Emberwilde just fine. As I mentioned, it was more of a light read. A romance to warm your heart. That being said, the romance actually was pretty subtle. But still there, in a way, for the duration of the story. There were a couple kisses exchanged at the end, but nothing more. I have to say, it was rather refreshing. None of those too-soon, passionate kissing scenes. But more of a gentle romance. I quite liked it! ^_^

All in all, I had a lovely time reading this book, and really look forward to reading more by Sarah E. Ladd! Dawn at Emberwilde had a captivating quality to it, and kept me turning pages happily. Heartily recommend to fans of historical, especially the Regency era, romance.

I received a copy of Dawn at Emberwilde from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

2 comments:

  1. Ooh, sounds neat! I enjoy a good Regency from time to time... May have to look into this one. :) Plus I love that cover! :O Great review! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Deborah, and you should give it a try! Regency novels are fun! ^_^ Yes, the cover is gorgeous!!

      Delete