Secrets abound within the Shadows of Swanford Abbey. It really did feel like a cross between Agatha Christie and Jane Austen! It was so much fun to read...I absolutely loved the murder mystery and the whole setting of the old abbey. Rebecca and Frederick's romance is rather slow and sweet but it was just perfect for this story. I highly recommend this if you're in the mood for a gothic style Christian romance/mystery.

I also listened to the audio book as I read this and thought the narrator did a wonderful job!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Published 7 December 2021.

It took way too long for the murder to commence, but other than that, it was good. And I see why it took so long, as it was set up very classically.

I do feel like there was a bit more room for angst, but that's really a me problem - not the problem of the book. The atmosphere and feel of the book was great, and it really reminded me of an older mystery - Agatha Christie, as other reviews have mentioned, for instance.

I also did like a lot of the things that were set up with minor characters. I wished there'd been a bit more focus on the major characters' backstories, but it was still fit in all right, and I think it all came together to form a fun mystery!

The last few years have seen the reemergence of classic murder-mystery storytelling in our house, with films such as Kenneth Branagh’s Murder on the Orient Express and and Rian Johnson’s Knives Out (which was such a hit, three more Knives Out movies are in the works). I've also enjoyed "Being Jane Austen" mysteries by author Stephanie Barron. For this viewer/reader, there is just something about the extended narrative of the introduction of many characters, any of whom could ultimately be guilty of a crime, and/or withholding secrets. Having little “clues” placed along the way as the mystery unfolds is always fun, especially if you return to the story a second time. Unexpected plot twists are a must (so– expected?), and having an element of romance is always a nice touch. In the case of Shadows of Swanford Abbey, author Julie Klassen has hit all the right points. Almost all the characters in this semi-gothic tale seem to be hiding something, the element of intrigue is palpable, and the plot frequently unpredictable. As is consistently the case with Klassen novels, the prose is well-written and the romance savory, yet tasteful.

I found the characters to be especially well-drawn, and villain or not, they were very enjoyable. As I usually do, characters achieve “Hollywood casting” in my head as I read. I have a terrible time remembering names, but I never forget faces, so assigning “actors” to the individuals in the stories that I read helps me to keep everyone organized. I imagined a younger Felicity Jones as Rebecca Lane, and Stuart Martin as Sir Frederick. His flirtatious, youthful brother is personified by Callum Woodhouse. The troubled brother of Rebecca reminds me of Adam Nagaitis, who also played a troubled brother in Walk Invisible: The Brontë Sisters. The reclusive author Ambrose Oliver would be deftly handled by Tom Hardy, if he put on a few pounds.

In addition to Klassen’s usual captivating writing, I was also impressed at her knowledge of several elements that are foreign to most. Based on the real-life Lacock Abbey, Swanford Abbey’s description in the novel was full of detail, showing the author’s thorough knowledge of the historic site. (For more detail, check out her YouTube video on the location – it’s really interesting!) Readers will also be treated to in-depth descriptions of activities of the 19th century period in which the characters lived, such as dressing habits, lawn bowling strategy, unique foods and other cultural references. Klassen has not only woven an intriguing, romantic tale, she has adeptly taken her readers back in time through details rife with historical accuracy.

As 2022 dawns, if you are looking for an excellent read to enjoy on dark wintery nights by the fire, I heartily recommend Shadows of Swanford Abbey. While it does have its moments of foreboding, it is thoroughly family-friendly, appropriate for all ages. The story of Rebecca's unrequited love is delectable, and readers can expect some interesting twists that will leave them satisfied at the story’s conclusion. Shadows is an excellent addition to the library of works that Julie Klassen is building, and can be enjoyed by Agatha Christie and Jane Austen fans alike.

The story opens with an author having writers block and his sister Rebecca helping her brother John get past this block, so he could meet his deadline.
The author delves into Rebecca’s brother and the emotions, and the depression that plagues him. The author takes her time in developing a story line and introducing readers to the cast of colorful characters.
While Rebecca tries to help her brother a distributing chain of events occurs. She doesn’t know where to turn, who to trust and what to believe. She tries to unravel this mystery on her own, but soon realizes she is over her head when her brother’s arch enemy is killed. So many characters had reasons to murder, but only one had reason enough to act on it. Rebecca hoped it wasn’t her brother.
I like how the author naturally wove in the faith message to this story.
Shadows of Swanford Abbey is an intriguing historical fiction novel with a good mix of mystery, a wide array of suspects and a splash of romance. It’s a winning combination.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

Shadows of Swanford Abbey
By Julie Klassen

Rebecca Lane has returned home after years away living as a lady's companion to support her brother. But word has reached that her brother's peculiar ways have worsened. But their is no room for her as her brother has spread out his work into her former room. But John has the perfect solution she can stay at Swanford Abbey and while there present his manuscript to Ambrose Oliver in hopes of getting his recommendation.

Reluctantly Rebecca agrees to John's scheme - though residing temporarily in the hotel long rumored to be haunted is the last thing she wants to do. But delivering her brother's manuscript is nigh on impossible and so Rebecca waits (and wastes funds she doesn't have). Soon she begins to see the rumored ghost that she heard tales of in her youth.

Sir Frederick Wilford has hidden himself away from life since the death of his late wife. A betrayal has made him avoid unnecessary company but when his brother Thomas visits he finds himself agreeing to a stay at Swanford. There he comes upon the daughter of his late tutor. Rebecca Lane is no longer the young girl she was and he finds himself enjoying the chance to renew their acquaintance.

But when a dark deed is perpetrated in the night questions are raised about all who are staying at the Swanford. And Sir Frederick as magistrate is dutybound to get answers. He knows someone is hiding something but the question is who is hiding what and whether or not it has a bearing on the murder he is investigating.

Shadows of Swanford Abbey is Historical Fiction with a good dose of mystery and a touch of romance. I love when books keep one in suspense as to who did it and this book did an excellent job at doing such. There are so many to suspect it is hard to narrow one's focus on who had the most compelling reason to take out Mr. Oliver. Julie Klassen does an excellent job at presenting a engaging and intriguing story. This is a standalone book as as such is an excellent introduction to this author if you have not yet read her. I have never been disappointed in any of Julie Klassen's books. I love how her characters are flawed and are aware of their failings and yet work to overcome the obstacles they have created in their lives. I would recommend this as an excellent book club selection.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations no that I provide my honest opinion - all thoughts expressed are my own.

Rebecca Lane has always felt a responsibility for her brother since he fell out of a tree on her watch when he was younger. Although she’s been traveling as a paid companion for several years, Rebecca is summoned home by a letter from her brother’s housekeeper stating that she’s concerned about his behavior. When she arrives home, she finds that her brother has written a second novel, which he wants her to present to an author to pass along to his publisher. Rebecca must go to Swanford Abbey, where the publisher and the author who stole her brother’s first novel are staying.

Reluctantly agreeing to her brother’s proposal, Rebecca stays at Swanford Abbey, although she’s not happy about it. She least expected to meet Sir Frederick, her first love, also staying at the Abbey. If things weren’t complicated enough for Rebecca, she and the other guests are soon forbidden to leave the Abbey as the author has been found dead in his room. Fearful that she or her brother might be suspected, she is secretive around the investigating magistrate – who just happens to be Sir Frederick. As they both begin to recognize their feelings for one another, Sir Frederick also notices Rebecca’s reticence, and wonders if the tender feelings he’s unlocked for Rebecca are going to be over before they’ve barely begun.

If you’ve made it through that complex synopsis, congratulations! There is a lot going on in Shadows of Swanford Abbey, although luckily Klassen does a better job of walking us through the story than I just did. If you’re thinking “that sounds like a lot of coincidences,” you’d also be correct about that. This story is very coincidence-oriented, as I suppose a lot of mysteries are. Overall, I’d give this novel three out of five stars. I didn’t love it enough to read it again but didn’t hate it enough to give it less than that. Let’s talk about it!

As far as plots go, I thought this one was a little stretched with the whole brother-book debacle. I didn’t really understand why Rebecca’s brother wanted to use the same author who stole his first book to get his second one published. We do learn why later in the story, although the reason just felt too manufactured as a red herring to be meaningful. It did add an element to the story, but not one that I bought into.

I did like the romance plot in this novel; I really appreciated how Rebecca didn’t want to tell Sir Fredick everything but also opened her eyes to the fact that if her brother had committed a crime (because she and us readers knew that she didn’t commit it), she couldn’t bear the moral weight of hiding it from the law. As Rebecca got to know and trust Sir Frederick again, the more she felt open to sharing with him about her movements and ideas, and that was written really organically. I thought the interactions between Rebecca and Sir Frederick were spot-on and I respect Klassen’s choice to make Rebecca a sensible woman!

As far as the mystery goes, I thought it was reasonably well-done. I won’t say it’s the most thrilling I’ve ever read, but I didn’t figure out the solution until it was revealed to me. I think it’s very hard to fit a good romance and a good mystery into one novel; I suppose that’s why my favorite romantic mystery series are series! Klassen does a solid job of creating both a compelling romance and mystery, although neither was stellar enough for me to want a second book about these characters. Which, by the way, I think is totally fine. It stands well on its own.

I guess you can see why the synopsis was so long; that’s a lot of plot going on in one book! If you’re in the market for a very palatable, HEA, romantic suspense novel, give this a try. There wasn’t anything about this book that really frustrated me in particular (yay!), but there also wasn’t anything that made me forcefully recommend it to other people. In other words, this is just a solid book. It’s consistent, constant, and shouldn’t disappoint the reader, which is very commendable and should make it appealing to a lot of audiences.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for a gifted copy of Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen. All opinions are my own.

How could a I resist a book that is described as "Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen"? A regency mystery and romance all in one sounds perfect.

This was a very enjoyable read. It takes place at a possibly haunted abbey that has been turned into a hotel. Rebecca is a local but she has been traveling as a lady's maid. She returns to her home village when she receives a letter that her brother needs her. There are a few mysteries revolving around the abbey and the hotel customers plus a bit of romance.

I absolutely loved this one. It is perfect for Jane Austen and Agatha Christie fans or anyone who enjoys regency era historical fiction.

Bonus: Author's notes are included and it is one of my favorite parts of a historical fiction book.

Christian
Historical Fiction
Romance
Release Date: December 7, 2021

Historical suspense with a Gothic twist is one of my favorite genres. I enjoy the tension and the chills. Shadows of Swanford Abbey delivers those sensations with a simmering romance too. Klassen's prose is smooth and her historical details make the book atmospheric. She incorporates issues like mental health and brain injury sensitively, and the slow burning romance is an extra benefit. I would have liked the mystery pacing to be swifter to add to the tension. The ghostly elements of the haunted abbey were fun. I highly recommend it to those who have enjoyed novels by Sarah Ladd, Abigail Wilson, and the master of gothic romance, Victoria Holt.

There is such a variety of things to appreciate about this book! The Gothic vibes of the setting with a murder mystery in a rumored haunted abbey, refurbished as a Regency hotel. The historic details of law jurisdiction, criminal investigation, book publishing, neighborhood improvement, and more brought the era to life and highlighted the differences and similarities to how those processes work now. I enjoyed the cast of unique characters that influence Rebecca and those close to her. The somewhat slower pace gives the reader a good opportunity to get to know the characters as the threads of the plot begin to weave together. I felt that the romance could have used more chemistry, but I enjoyed the sweet romance between Rebecca and the man she crushed on in her childhood. The solving of the mystery had tones of the Lady Darby Mystery series by Anna Lee Huber, and it was intriguing to see some science come into play as well as motivation. An entertaining mystery!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

I've enjoyed Julie Klassen's novels for years, and this one was no exception. Shadows of Swanford Abbey sort of reminded me of some of the author's previous work, but its also different enough to not be repetitive. I love Rebecca and Frederick's romance/former beaus who come together again story.

Writing, women's roles and mental health are all subjects dealt with in this story. I love that more and more Christian authors are starting to address mental health in thier novels, and doing it in a realistic and sensitive way. This is something which needs to be explored more.

Don't let that serious stuff put you off though, this book was still fun and intriguing and keeps you turning pages. The romance is great and the faith elements were well handled. It is about forgiving yourself as much as forgiving others.

Thanks to Bethany House for allowing me to download an ARC of this title. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

I adore historical fiction, and this is such an interesting premise. I recommend because of the story itself, writing style, and its ability to transport you into a different world/time period.

3.5stars.

Stories set in the Regency period are among my favorite, but I felt like this story started off slowly and was a bit long.

The closed house setting was intriguing. Who doesn't love reading about big houses with secret passageways?? The romance was fairly slow, but I liked that Rebecca and Frederick had a backstory. There were a lot of twists and turns which I appreciated, and I really liked how it ended.

Overall if you like Regency period romantic mysteries, I think you will like this one. I would have enjoyed it more if it had been about 100 pages shorter.

**Thank you to Netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.**

This story caught my attention right from the beginning! I love the characters, especially Rebecca, the old lady, and Frederick. The mystery is intriguing. The dishonesty is not my favorite part, because it goes on too long, but thankfully, all is resolved in the end.

Another beautiful book from this author. Anything she writes is good in my opinion. There’s just the right amount of romance, mystery, and suspense all while capturing the feel of the the regency period. The descriptions, attention to detail, and dialogue all seem very authentic without bogging down the book. Highly recommend

I enjoyed this story and the different glance it gave me at the Regency period. It was fun for it to be a mystery about an author who was despised, since many want him dead. This story kept me guessing.

Okay, I'm going to need about a thousand more books with these vibes, please. I didn't know I needed a spooky but gorgeous haunted abbey thrown into my love of regency romance, but it was glorious. And the mystery? So good, and very mysterious. The suspense was real, the romance was sweet, and the setting was stunning. Definitely a recommended read from me! The only reason it's four stars instead of five is that the climax seemed a little.. anticlimactic. But maybe that's just because the buildup and resolution were so good. 😅

Julie Klassen did not disappoint in her new book, Shadows of Swanford Abbey. The story held my attention from beginning to end. This is a Christian book in a very good way. It doesn't preach at you but shows how people that ARE Christians use their faith in their daily lives.
The main characters were very well developed. You felt like you were getting to know them. The minor characters were also well developed and played their roles well also.
This was an ARC edition and the editing was well done. I did notice a handful of errors but I'm sure these will be addressed before final publication.
If you are looking for a good, Christian, historical novel this is the book for you. I give this a solid 4 out of 5-star review. Just so you know, I rarely give 5-stars, those are given to the most outstanding books. This would be 4.5 if allowed.

In this Clue-esque, classic "who done it", a murder is committed and all the hotel guests are suspect. It was fun trying to guess who the culprit was when everyone has motive. A mystery with romance intermingled.

Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC of #ShadowsofSwanfordAbbey

I have always enjoyed Julie Klassen books and this one was not different. While it did take sometime to get to the mystery of the book, I enjoyed the build up and background information. I did not see the mystery unfolding the way it did but thought it was fun to read. The story between Rebecca and Frederick was sweet and loved to see where it ended. While I would have enjoyed an epilogue of a few years later the story did end well.

I really enjoyed this story. The further I got into the book the more I enjoyed it and didn’t want to put it down. Shadows of Swanford Abbey is a mixture of regency, mystery, and a bit of romance. To me it felt like a combination of Agatha Christie and Jane Eyre. It has the more gothic feel because of the abbey’s haunted history. The mystery, that I kept guessing at until the end, was what hooked me, but I loved the atmospheric setting and the likable characters. I really wanted to find out “whodunit “and if Rebecca would get her happily-ever-after. This kept me reading and is what made this book hard to put down. The characters in this book are not all that they might seem, enhancing the plot and giving the reader some things to ponder. There are themes of hurt, forgiveness, lost chances, and personal responsibility. Fans of the Regency era will enjoy the historical details. I also enjoyed learning about the legal aspects in small cities of the day and the treatment of those with mental illness.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.