BOOK BY: Sarah E. Ladd
Family secrets that seem impossible to uncover, murder that appears connected to laborer disputes, and evidence that’s hidden away or destroyed make The Letter from Briarton Park an intriguing read. Cassandra Hale knows little of her parentage, but a shocking deathbed confession reveals a two-year old letter hinting at her family’s identity. Betrayed and angry, Cassandra leaves the only life she’s ever known and travels to the grand estate, Briarton Park to find the answers she seeks.
This story is full of twists that surprise and connections that aren’t easily recognizable at first glance. A wealth of characters add to the drama of Cassandra’s search, some helpful and others opposed to her quest. There are instantly likeable characters and an equal number of detestable ones too. Readers, along with Cassandra, are unsure which characters to trust, which makes the story that much more enjoyable.
The setting is a little town, far away from London, England. The contrast between the grand estate and the village centre is striking. Readers are given descriptions that make it easy to imagine the stench of the rowdy, drunken men and the poor conditions of the Inn and boarding house.
There isn’t a lack of potential suitors for Cassandra, but are any trustworthy? Readers can expect a sweet romance and a satisfactory ending to Cassandra’s search.
The Letter from Briarton Park gives readers an experience not quickly forgotten.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.