Author – Nicola Pryce
Publisher – Corvus
Genre – Historical Drama
Pages – 480
Format – Paperback
Release Date – August 3rd 2024
Reviewer – Me AKA TheBookishHermit
Synopsis ⤵️
Cornwall, 1801.
In the wake of her mother’s death, Pandora Woodville is desperate to escape her domineering father and finally return to Cornwall. Posing as a widow, she safely makes it across the Atlantic, bright with the dream of working at her Aunt Harriet’s school for young women. But as Pandora is soon to learn, the school is facing imminent closure after a series of sinister events threatened its reputation.
Acclaimed chemist Benedict Aubyn has also recently returned to Cornwall, to take up a new role as Turnpike Trust Surveyor. Pandora’s arrival has been a strange one, so she is grateful when he shows her kindness. As news of the school’s ruin spreads around town, everyone seems to be after her aunt’s estate. Now, Pandora and Aunt Harriet must do everything in their power to save the school, or risk losing everything.
However, Pandora has another problem. She’s falling for Benedict. But can she trust him, or is he simply looking after his own interests?
My Review ⤵️
Here we have a rather gripping tale of love, mystery, and resilience set against the backdrop of an era filled with societal constraints. The story follows Pandora Woodville, a determined young woman on a quest to escape her oppressive father and seek solace in her beloved Cornwall.
The narrative immediately draws readers into Pandora’s world, evoking a sense of longing and desperation as she navigates the treacherous journey to her aunt’s school. The author masterfully captures the emotional turmoil Pandora experiences after the loss of her mother, highlighting her strong yearning for independence and her unwavering determination.
Pandora’s decision to pose as a widow allows her to find refuge at her aunt’s school, but soon, dark events unfold, threatening its very existence. The introduction of Benedict Aubyn, an eminent chemist, adds an additional layer of complexity to the plot. Benedict’s kindness towards Pandora amidst the schools’ troubles sparks a refreshing and tender romance.
The author skillfully weaves together the various threads of the story, creating a sense of mounting tension and intrigue. The imminent closure of the school and the pursuit of Aunt Harriet’s estate by scheming individuals keep readers hooked till the very end. The vivid descriptions of Cornwall’s landscapes and the societal norms of the era further enhance the immersive reading experience.
The character development here is one of the book’s strongest aspects. Pandora’s resilience and determination make her a captivating protagonist, while Benedict’s enigmatic nature keeps readers guessing about his true intentions. Their evolving relationship is beautifully portrayed, although at times the trust issues between them feel slightly forced.
The plot twists are executed with precision, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The author effortlessly interweaves the themes of love, family, and sacrifice, creating a tapestry of emotions that resonates with readers on a profound level. The resolution of the central conflicts satisfies while leaving room for reflection.
Although occasionally the pacing slows down, overall, this is an engrossing historical novel that transports readers to a bygone era. It showcases the author’s meticulous research and attention to detail, while the compelling characters and intricate suspense ensure an engaging read from start to finish. Fans of historical fiction, especially those with a fondness for Cornwall, will find this novel a delightful addition to their bookshelves.
5 stars
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I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a review copy of this book for free. Views and opinions are my own and have not been influenced by anyone.
About The Author ⤵️
Home
Nicola Pryce is published by Atlantic Books and is represented by Teresa Chris. She trained as a nurse at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London, loves literature and history, and has an Open University degree in Humanities. She is a qualified adult literacy support volunteer and lives with her husband in the Blackdown Hills in Somerset. She and her husband love sailing and together they sail the south coast of Cornwall in search of adventure. It is there where she sets her books.
Pengelly’s Daughter was her debut novel, followed by The Captain’s Girl, The Cornish Dressmaker, The Cornish Lady, A Cornish Betrothal, The Cornish Captive. The Cornish Rebel will be published in August 2023.
Nicola is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association and The Historical Writers’ Association. #cornishsaga #historicalfiction
Do follow her on :
https://www.instagram.com/nicola_pryce_author/
https://www.facebook.com/nicolaprycebooks/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15249833.Nicola_Pryce
Link To Buy ⤵️
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#TheBookishHermit AKA Laura. xx
The Bookish Hermit 