Sarah Ladd offers a delectable gothic romantic thriller with “Dawn at Emberwilde.” Reminiscent of classic authors like Jane Austen or the Bronte sisters, Ladd’s latest story is found in a series but actually is read like a standalone.
It’s 1817 and Isabel Creston, an orphan and young teacher at the Fellsworth School, is shocked to learn she has family who wants to take her into their home. Arriving at Emberwilde with her half sister, 8-year-old Lizzie, Isabel is ecstatic to meet her new family and learn of her family’s past — especially about her mother.
However, with tales of ghosts and spooky local folklore, and seemingly illegal activity occurring in the adjacent forest, Isabel quickly begins to suspect strange things are afoot.
Colin Galloway, town magistrate, is serviced to come to the bottom of the possible smuggling operation occurring in the forest, but he also hopes to help Isabel in her times of need.
“Dawn at Emberwilde” is that kind of read that’s just really hard to put down. Ladd is a great storyteller, created intriguing characters. But she also fills her novel with some impactful themes, like leaving one’s security (“fearful restlessness”), expectations and creating false impressions, and finding the strength and faith that everything will work out for the good.
You will fall in love with Isabel, who is never afraid to stand up for herself and her beliefs; the plucky and adorable Lizzie; and the swoon worthy Colin.
Five stars out of five.
Thomas Nelson provided this complimentary copy for my honest, unbiased review.
“Dawn at Emberwilde” (Treasures of Surrey series, #2) by Sarah E. Ladd