Book Review of
Shadow of Swanford Abbey
The Shadow of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen is part mystery and part Jane Austen.
Miss Rebecca Lane returns to her home village after being away for a few years. Her brother begs her to go to nearby Swanford Abbey and deliver his manuscript to an author staying there because he wants help getting it published. Feeling responsible for her brother, she reluctantly agrees.
Once at the medieval monastery turned grand hotel which is rumored to be haunted, Rebecca begins noticing strange things. For all its renovations and veneer of luxury, the ancient foundations seem to echo with the past. While there, she encounters Sir Frederick, a widower and former neighbor, who long ago broke her heart.
When the author is found murdered, Sir Frederick begins questioning the staff and guests. He quickly discovers that several people had issues with the man, including Miss Lane and her brother. Sir Frederick searches for answers but is torn between his feelings for Rebecca and his pursuit of the truth.
Lynn's Review
Shadow of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen was published in 2021. It is Christian historical fiction.
I love to read Julia Klassen’s books when I need an easy, light read. Sometimes I just need a book that does not take a lot of thought. I usually read one or two of her books a year. This month I read two. I just needed some light, easy reading this month. Julie Klassen’s books worked for exactly the reading mood I was in.
Rebecca Lane returns to her small village after being away. Her struggling writer brother needs her help. The story involves an old abbey, a famous author, family secrets, a death, a mystery, and of course some romance.
If you like clean historical fiction, this is a good one. Just don’t expect a lot of depth to the story or characters. It is a good, but predictable read.
About the Author
Julie Klassen is the author of over twenty historical fiction romance books. She writes closed-door romance books.