Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Bethany House Publishers (2013), 416 pages
Description
Danger mounts at a baron's remote estate as Emma Smallwood, a clever tutor's daughter, decides which of the baron's four sons to suspect and which to trust with her heart.
User reviews
LibraryThing member thornton37814
Emma Smallwood assists her father in his preparatory school for boys. As she's going through the accounts and trying to find ways to bring more students to the school, she notices that the younger brothers of Phillip and Henry Weston have not come as she had expected. When she writes on her
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father's behalf to inquire if they might be interested in attending, her father receives an invitation to come to Cornwall as their private tutor. Emma is surprised by her father's acceptance, and as soon as their home is rented, they travel to Cornwall only to be to not be met at the station and greeted by a bit of surprise on the wife's part although the letter of acceptance and information about their time of arrival was sent in advance. Emma finds Henry and Phillip away upon arrival although Henry soon returns from his trip on behalf of their estate and Phillip takes a break from his studies at Oxford to come home. Things are disappearing, music is playing, and some try to blame it on a ghost. Emma doesn't believe in ghosts and sets out to prove that wrong. She receives a little help from one of the brothers. As one might expect, there comes a point of danger for Emma and that brother. This novel reminds me so much of the Phyllis Whitney and Victoria Holt novels that I enjoyed in junior high and high school. Many of today's romantic suspense novels add an occultic element to the novel that, as a Christian, I'm uncomfortable reading. Klassen's work gave me the enjoyment of those novels without that uncomfortable feeling. Although this is produced by a Christian publisher, it is not really evangelistic in nature, relying upon prayer in the face of danger and difficulty instead to communicate the faith of the characters. I look forward to going back and reading other books by Klassen now that I've discovered her work. Thanks to the publisher for providing the advanced e-galley of this book through NetGalley. Show Less
LibraryThing member BookDivasReads
Emma Smallwood is a good daughter and an excellent tutorial assistant. As her father's teaching academy winds down, she seeks gainful employment for him with the father of former students. Emma has mixed feelings about traveling to Cornwall and the home of the Westons as Philip was a dear friend
Emma seems to be the victim of multiple pranks during her stay at Ebbington Manor, including hearing music in the night, having her personal journal/diary stolen, and seeing mysterious hand prints in her room. Rowan and Julian want her to believe that there is a ghost in the manor, but Emma's common sense prevails and she investigates. She quickly learns that the music is being played by a lost brother, Adam. She also learns that all is not what it appears at Ebbington Manor. Her friendship with Philip seems to wan as she gets to know him better as an adult and she is pleasantly surprised by the faith and friendship afforded her by her childhood nemesis, Henry.
Ms. Klassen has provided a wonderful gothic romance with The Tutor's Daughter. Emma is an educated young woman in an age where excess education of gentle women is frowned upon by society. She is constantly mocked for being a "bluestocking" because of her desire to read and learn. In many ways The Tutor's Daughter is a coming-of-age story where Emma learns that you can't judge based on appearances (shades of Pride & Prejudice). Although Emma, and indeed all of the Westons and Smallwoods, attends church on a regular basis, Emma appears to do so out of societal custom rather than true belief. Her faith is greatly enhanced after a conversation with Henry Weston and a near-death experience. The Tutor's Daughter is a well-crafted historical fiction read but one that didn't keep my attention until the latter portion of the book. I ascribe this more to migrainus-interruptus than anything else. If you enjoy gothic romances, clean historical romances or a combination of both, then I highly recommend The Tutor's Daughter.
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but his older brother, Henry, was a constant source of torment. Unfortunately the Smallwoods arrival at Ebbington Manor isn't all they had hoped. Although arrangements are quickly made for them, Emma and Mr. Smallwood are quickly put in their place by Lady Weston, who insists that they dine with the family steward. If that isn’t bad enough, the youngest Weston brothers seem to mirror the elder brothers with one being kind, Rowan, and one being more cold and taunting, Julian. Emma seems to be the victim of multiple pranks during her stay at Ebbington Manor, including hearing music in the night, having her personal journal/diary stolen, and seeing mysterious hand prints in her room. Rowan and Julian want her to believe that there is a ghost in the manor, but Emma's common sense prevails and she investigates. She quickly learns that the music is being played by a lost brother, Adam. She also learns that all is not what it appears at Ebbington Manor. Her friendship with Philip seems to wan as she gets to know him better as an adult and she is pleasantly surprised by the faith and friendship afforded her by her childhood nemesis, Henry.
Ms. Klassen has provided a wonderful gothic romance with The Tutor's Daughter. Emma is an educated young woman in an age where excess education of gentle women is frowned upon by society. She is constantly mocked for being a "bluestocking" because of her desire to read and learn. In many ways The Tutor's Daughter is a coming-of-age story where Emma learns that you can't judge based on appearances (shades of Pride & Prejudice). Although Emma, and indeed all of the Westons and Smallwoods, attends church on a regular basis, Emma appears to do so out of societal custom rather than true belief. Her faith is greatly enhanced after a conversation with Henry Weston and a near-death experience. The Tutor's Daughter is a well-crafted historical fiction read but one that didn't keep my attention until the latter portion of the book. I ascribe this more to migrainus-interruptus than anything else. If you enjoy gothic romances, clean historical romances or a combination of both, then I highly recommend The Tutor's Daughter.
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LibraryThing member hollysing
Emma Smallwood and her father leave their Longstaple failing boarding school academy for cliff top Ebbington Manor on the Cornwall Coast where Mr. Smallwood is to tutor young male twins. After an awkward reception as if they were not expected, they are housed in the north wing with warnings not to
The book is populated with a multitude of characters, some likeable, some not. Henry and Phillip were pupils at Lonstaple and share a history with Emma. Henry is the eldest Weston brother, foul-tempered when young and complex as he ages. Phillip is kind and shares a mutual crush with Emma. Emma’s father tutors their younger half brothers, Rowan and Julian Weston. Friendly and inquisitive Lizzie Henshaw is an effective contrast to the disapproving, cold Lady Violet Weston.
At Ebbington, Emma experiences harassment, hears sad piano music at night, and smells a man’s soap when she enters her bedroom. A secret admirer pushes love notes under her door while she sleeps. She is alternately suspicious of most people in the house except her father. Emma writes in her journal every night and suddenly discovers it is missing. The reader is signaled of ongoing mystery as lightening strikes during uncomfortable moments in the narrative and the wind whips across the Cornwall coast.
Klassen writes in the style of Jane Austen and her love of the Regency Period shine through her novels. Here she blends historical fiction with a dash of mystery and romance. The author’s note tells us that one of Jane Austen’s brothers was sent to live in a nearby town because of a disability. He became the inspiration for the character, Adam Weston.
Although it is a bit forced, mystery lurks in the corridors of Ebbington manor. Reverence for learning is in the background of this novel. Solid prose and imagery combine vivid description. The characterization of the enigmatic Henry is superb. Nevertheless, The Tutor’s Daughter doesn’t hit the mark of Klassen’s previous novels.
Bethany House Publishers graciously supplied a review copy for my unbiased opinion.
Reviewed by Holly Weiss, author of Crestmont
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venture into the south wing. As the plot progresses we are aware of secrets harboring in the manor.The book is populated with a multitude of characters, some likeable, some not. Henry and Phillip were pupils at Lonstaple and share a history with Emma. Henry is the eldest Weston brother, foul-tempered when young and complex as he ages. Phillip is kind and shares a mutual crush with Emma. Emma’s father tutors their younger half brothers, Rowan and Julian Weston. Friendly and inquisitive Lizzie Henshaw is an effective contrast to the disapproving, cold Lady Violet Weston.
At Ebbington, Emma experiences harassment, hears sad piano music at night, and smells a man’s soap when she enters her bedroom. A secret admirer pushes love notes under her door while she sleeps. She is alternately suspicious of most people in the house except her father. Emma writes in her journal every night and suddenly discovers it is missing. The reader is signaled of ongoing mystery as lightening strikes during uncomfortable moments in the narrative and the wind whips across the Cornwall coast.
Klassen writes in the style of Jane Austen and her love of the Regency Period shine through her novels. Here she blends historical fiction with a dash of mystery and romance. The author’s note tells us that one of Jane Austen’s brothers was sent to live in a nearby town because of a disability. He became the inspiration for the character, Adam Weston.
Although it is a bit forced, mystery lurks in the corridors of Ebbington manor. Reverence for learning is in the background of this novel. Solid prose and imagery combine vivid description. The characterization of the enigmatic Henry is superb. Nevertheless, The Tutor’s Daughter doesn’t hit the mark of Klassen’s previous novels.
Bethany House Publishers graciously supplied a review copy for my unbiased opinion.
Reviewed by Holly Weiss, author of Crestmont
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LibraryThing member Nise
Each book Julie writes gets better and better! Her love of Austen and Bronte shine brightly and makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read. I loved the family secrets, ghostly happenings in the middle of the night, the wondering who the culprit could be as well as the setting of Cornwall, the mystery
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and intrigue it added to the story. The rich cast of characters are easy to like and it was exciting to see many of them change and grow. The storyline with Adam is very touching. Show Less
LibraryThing member BooksCooksLooks
This is my second book by Ms. Klassen - I reviewed The Maid of Fairbourne Hall previously and found it a light and enjoyable read. I therefore accepted The Tutor's Daughter with anticipation of another good tale.
In this story we meet young Emma Smallwood who is caring for her widowed father and
Off they trek with Emma feeling some trepidation as she has very fond feelings for one of these former students and less than fond feelings for the other. She meets the rest of the family including a ward, Lizzie who is far too outspoken and invasive for Emma's comfort. Soon strange manifestations start to occur in and around Emma and she starts to worry that she is being haunted by a ghost.
But it is nothing so spectral that haunts her; it is most definitely something earthbound and something evil. She works towards figuring out the secrets of the manor while sorting out her feelings for the older sons of the house.
I was intrigued with the synopsis of this book but the story didn't live up to its teaser. I think what left me most dissatisfied was the lack of any real justice or comeuppance for the bad guys at the end. I obviously don't want to give too much away but what good is revealing the evil doer for lack of a better phrase and then just letting him/her off? It was an emotional let down. The romantic aspects ended up quite nicely though and Ms. Klassen does have a way with descriptions - I really felt as if I was there. I felt Emma's fear and confusion and she was being stalked. It just felt like a rushed ending with, as mentioned an unsatisfactory wrap up for the bad guys.
It was, though an enjoyable read and I will read the next book from Ms. Klassen when it comes out.
In this story we meet young Emma Smallwood who is caring for her widowed father and
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teaching with him in their academy for young boys; only there are no more boys to teach. This turn of events does not seem to bother her father but it concerns Emma mightily because she doesn't know how she will pay their bills without students. She comes up with a plan to invite the younger sons of previous students but instead receives an offer to come to the manor house instead to teach them there. At first insulted for her father she soon learns he feels that the change of scenery is just what he wants to help forget the wife he so loved.Off they trek with Emma feeling some trepidation as she has very fond feelings for one of these former students and less than fond feelings for the other. She meets the rest of the family including a ward, Lizzie who is far too outspoken and invasive for Emma's comfort. Soon strange manifestations start to occur in and around Emma and she starts to worry that she is being haunted by a ghost.
But it is nothing so spectral that haunts her; it is most definitely something earthbound and something evil. She works towards figuring out the secrets of the manor while sorting out her feelings for the older sons of the house.
I was intrigued with the synopsis of this book but the story didn't live up to its teaser. I think what left me most dissatisfied was the lack of any real justice or comeuppance for the bad guys at the end. I obviously don't want to give too much away but what good is revealing the evil doer for lack of a better phrase and then just letting him/her off? It was an emotional let down. The romantic aspects ended up quite nicely though and Ms. Klassen does have a way with descriptions - I really felt as if I was there. I felt Emma's fear and confusion and she was being stalked. It just felt like a rushed ending with, as mentioned an unsatisfactory wrap up for the bad guys.
It was, though an enjoyable read and I will read the next book from Ms. Klassen when it comes out.
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LibraryThing member alekee
I loved this visit to old England. The Tutor's Daughter is a mystery with a bit of romance. The mystery goes to almost the end and was a surprise to me.
Emma Smallwood and her father have accepted an invite to go and teach the younger son's of Sir Giles Weston, Rowan and Julian. Emma hopes that this
Lady Weston meets them at the door, very surprised they are there. They are later shown to their rooms and told to stay away from the North Wing?
Emma and her Dad are also reunited with their formal pupils Henry and Phillip Weston. Emma harbors feelings for Phillip, where as Henry was always teasing and pulling pranks on her. There is also a young girl at their home, Lizzie Henshaw, who is Lady Weston's Ward. It will take you quite awhile to decide if she is a friend or a foe?
Henry Weston I found to be wonderful God loving man, he seems to really care for most anyone, including risking his own life.
Sit down and have a cup of tea, and enjoy this great story.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
Emma Smallwood and her father have accepted an invite to go and teach the younger son's of Sir Giles Weston, Rowan and Julian. Emma hopes that this
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change from the school he runs will help revive him from his depression.Lady Weston meets them at the door, very surprised they are there. They are later shown to their rooms and told to stay away from the North Wing?
Emma and her Dad are also reunited with their formal pupils Henry and Phillip Weston. Emma harbors feelings for Phillip, where as Henry was always teasing and pulling pranks on her. There is also a young girl at their home, Lizzie Henshaw, who is Lady Weston's Ward. It will take you quite awhile to decide if she is a friend or a foe?
Henry Weston I found to be wonderful God loving man, he seems to really care for most anyone, including risking his own life.
Sit down and have a cup of tea, and enjoy this great story.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity Tours, and was not required to give a positive review.
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LibraryThing member mbarkman
Julie does a phenomenal job in bringing the country of the Cornwall, England coast to life through her vivid descriptions. You can smell the salt of the sea mist as you walk along the rugged beach, feel the ocean breeze tug at your skirts, see and hear the waves threaten the very life of the
As a young woman expecting to teach in a woman’s academy with her aunt, Emma was well equipped to help her father in his work. Julie keeps the reader turning the pages, reading just one more chapter with her well placed and turns in the plot. The characters and plot is well developed and I think you will enjoy this as much as I did.
I enjoyed learning to know another piece of English history.
I received this book free from Baker Publishing House and Julie Warkentin for the purpose of writing a review. A positive critique was not required, only an honest one. The opinions stated are my own.
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coastal creatures. You learn much about the life of a tutor, how during the time of the novel they actually opened their home to young men who would board with the tutor and his family, or if circumstances and affluence afforded, the tutor would live in with the family of the boys he was teaching. In this case, he took his daughter with him. This sets Emma as neither a servant nor a guest, and you learn how life was for both the elite and the underdog.As a young woman expecting to teach in a woman’s academy with her aunt, Emma was well equipped to help her father in his work. Julie keeps the reader turning the pages, reading just one more chapter with her well placed and turns in the plot. The characters and plot is well developed and I think you will enjoy this as much as I did.
I enjoyed learning to know another piece of English history.
I received this book free from Baker Publishing House and Julie Warkentin for the purpose of writing a review. A positive critique was not required, only an honest one. The opinions stated are my own.
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LibraryThing member arielfl
I have previously read the Maid of Fairbourne Hall by this author. Klassen specializes in fluffy historical romances with a Christian slant. Nothing too heavy handed, just a nice God loves you kind of thing.
In this novel plucky Emma Smallwood assists her father who is a tutor and who is suffering
In a Klassen novel the romance is chaste and the mystery uncomplicated. If you are looking for mind bending intrigue grab an Agatha Christie novel. Still this had a sort of pleasant Downtown Abbey-esque vibe to it. Grab it if you are in the mood for a frothy historical romance light.
In this novel plucky Emma Smallwood assists her father who is a tutor and who is suffering
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from depression due to the death of his wife. When their pool of students dry up they elect to go to a wealthy manor to tutor the siblings of their previous students. The welcome at the manor is not a pleasant one as the Lady Weston is a cold fish and to compound matters Emma has to deal with Henry Weston, heir to the manor who did quiet a bit of teasing of Emma when he was her father's pupil. While at the manor mysterious things begin to happen to Emma. At first it is just the theft of personal items but soon things turn more sinister. Who is responsible? Is it Lizzie, Mrs. Weston's ward and frenemy to Emma, Philip, Henry Weston's younger biological brother or Henry's half siblings, the twins, Julian or Rowan? Or is it someone else, such as a mysterious relative kept hidden in the house? Klassen borrows liberally from Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte to tell her tale.In a Klassen novel the romance is chaste and the mystery uncomplicated. If you are looking for mind bending intrigue grab an Agatha Christie novel. Still this had a sort of pleasant Downtown Abbey-esque vibe to it. Grab it if you are in the mood for a frothy historical romance light.
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LibraryThing member l_manning
Emma Smallwood has enjoyed her life as the tutor's daughter. Her father has run a small boarding school for young men. This allowed Emma to get quite an education herself, and she has a love of books to match. This also forced Emma to meet many young men, and most of them drove her crazy. One young
This was a book that slowly grew on me until I became completely absorbed in the story. It reminds me of some of the classics that we all know and love. Emma is a heroine a lot of people who read a lot can probably relate to. She loves books and learning and longs to travel the world. She spent time with both older Weston brothers while they were at her father's school. Phillip was all sunshine and rainbows and Henry spent most of his time playing pranks on Emma. I'm sure you can probably guess where that storyline is going. However, that is not the most interesting part of this book. You see, the Westons have some secrets. Some big secrets. They are trying really hard to keep things under wraps, but as you can imagine things won't stay that way for long.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The mysteries were what really held my interest. There were some surprises that even I didn't see coming. Some of the subjects were kind of sensitive, and they were treated very carefully. I even learned some new things. This is a book that will absorb you in until you can't stop reading. It's a great escape and a really interesting book. If you love history, romance, or the classics, this book will hold some interest for you.
Book provided for review.
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man, Phillip Weston, holds a special place in her heart though for his kindness. After her mother's death, Emma's father has become less and less interested in teaching though, and soon his students have dwindled down in number. Desperate to help her father, Emma writes to Phillip Weston's father, knowing he has two more sons of an age to be educated. The Westons offer the Smallwoods and interesting proposal though. They ask Mr. Smallwood to come teach at their home. The Smallwoods take this offer, but they soon find themselves involved in much more than they were ready for. Add to that the fact that someone has decided to pull mean-spirited pranks on Emma, and things go from bad to worse. This was a book that slowly grew on me until I became completely absorbed in the story. It reminds me of some of the classics that we all know and love. Emma is a heroine a lot of people who read a lot can probably relate to. She loves books and learning and longs to travel the world. She spent time with both older Weston brothers while they were at her father's school. Phillip was all sunshine and rainbows and Henry spent most of his time playing pranks on Emma. I'm sure you can probably guess where that storyline is going. However, that is not the most interesting part of this book. You see, the Westons have some secrets. Some big secrets. They are trying really hard to keep things under wraps, but as you can imagine things won't stay that way for long.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The mysteries were what really held my interest. There were some surprises that even I didn't see coming. Some of the subjects were kind of sensitive, and they were treated very carefully. I even learned some new things. This is a book that will absorb you in until you can't stop reading. It's a great escape and a really interesting book. If you love history, romance, or the classics, this book will hold some interest for you.
Book provided for review.
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LibraryThing member SAMANTHA100
By 1817 Emma Smallwood's widowed father's boarding school in Longstaple, Devonshire had failed. Unexpectedly, a teaching offer arrives from Sir Giles, the baronet of Ebbington Manor in Ebford, Cornwall. His two oldest sons, Henry and Phillip were former students of Mr. Smallwood. He asks Mr.
From the time the Smallwoods arrive at Ebbington Manor things do not go well. The baronet's second wife, Lady Weston, is not welcoming and considers the Smallwoods beneath her. Lizzie, the supposed ward of the family, initially convinces Emma that she would welcome her friendship. Emma eventually learns that Lizzie is dangerous. Emma had been fond of Phillip when he was a student at her father's school, but this was not the case with his brother Henry. She remembered his pranks and teasing. Henry seems different now and appears to be preoccupied with issues of his own. Strange things begin to happen. Emma's journal goes missing. Who left a bloody handprint on Emma's mirror? Her life is threatened and there is no shortage of suspects. Somehow, through it all, Emma discovers love is possible for her.
This a page turning suspense novel with a carefully constructed plot . At every turn, the reader is met with surprises. The author has written an intensely vibrant story with three dimensional characters. The Tutor's Daughter is faith-based fiction and an excellent choice for fans of romance and mystery.
I received this book free of charge from Bethany House and I give this review of my own free will,
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Smallwood to come to Ebbington Manor to teach his two younger twin sons. With no other prospects in sight, Mr. Smallwood accepts the position and he and Emma travel to Cornwall. So opens Julie Klassen's historical romance novel, The Tutor's Daughter.From the time the Smallwoods arrive at Ebbington Manor things do not go well. The baronet's second wife, Lady Weston, is not welcoming and considers the Smallwoods beneath her. Lizzie, the supposed ward of the family, initially convinces Emma that she would welcome her friendship. Emma eventually learns that Lizzie is dangerous. Emma had been fond of Phillip when he was a student at her father's school, but this was not the case with his brother Henry. She remembered his pranks and teasing. Henry seems different now and appears to be preoccupied with issues of his own. Strange things begin to happen. Emma's journal goes missing. Who left a bloody handprint on Emma's mirror? Her life is threatened and there is no shortage of suspects. Somehow, through it all, Emma discovers love is possible for her.
This a page turning suspense novel with a carefully constructed plot . At every turn, the reader is met with surprises. The author has written an intensely vibrant story with three dimensional characters. The Tutor's Daughter is faith-based fiction and an excellent choice for fans of romance and mystery.
I received this book free of charge from Bethany House and I give this review of my own free will,
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LibraryThing member Robin661
The Tutor’s Daughter
Julie Klassen
Book Summary: Emma Smallwood, determined to help her widowed father when his boarding school fails, accompanies him to the cliff-top manor of a baronet and his four sons. But soon after they arrive and begin teaching the two younger boys, mysterious things begin
Filled with page-turning suspense, The Tutor's Daughter takes readers to the windswept Cornwall coast--a place infamous for shipwrecks and superstitions--where danger lurks, faith is tested, and romance awaits.
Book Review: I really enjoyed Emma, Henry and Aunt Jane. They were great characters that you really felt like they were friends and people you could relate to. I found the mysteries to be fun. I like the one on the north wing, although it ended too quickly. I like the events that came from that but I would have liked a couple more nights of fear from it. The BIG mystery was easy to figure out. The only disappointing thing was when Emma believed the very people she knew were liars. That bothered me tremendously. Somehow they should have someone duped into lying to her, because she should have known they could not be trusted. The relationship between Emma and Henry was great. How they went from being at odds to friends was great to watch. I would recommend this story to anyone. It was full of fun memories like Jane Eyre, Mansfield Park (for me). I did not really see any Downton Abbey in it because Carson the Butler far exceeds Davies.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bethany House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Julie Klassen
Book Summary: Emma Smallwood, determined to help her widowed father when his boarding school fails, accompanies him to the cliff-top manor of a baronet and his four sons. But soon after they arrive and begin teaching the two younger boys, mysterious things begin
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to happen. Who does Emma hear playing the pianoforte at night, only to find the music room empty? And who begins sneaking into her bedchamber, leaving behind strange mementoes? The baronet's older sons, Phillip and Henry Weston, wrestle with problems--and secrets--of their own. They both remember the studious Miss Smallwood from their days at her father's academy. But now one of them finds himself unexpectedly drawn to her.... When suspicious acts escalate, can Emma figure out which brother to blame and which to trust with her heart?Filled with page-turning suspense, The Tutor's Daughter takes readers to the windswept Cornwall coast--a place infamous for shipwrecks and superstitions--where danger lurks, faith is tested, and romance awaits.
Book Review: I really enjoyed Emma, Henry and Aunt Jane. They were great characters that you really felt like they were friends and people you could relate to. I found the mysteries to be fun. I like the one on the north wing, although it ended too quickly. I like the events that came from that but I would have liked a couple more nights of fear from it. The BIG mystery was easy to figure out. The only disappointing thing was when Emma believed the very people she knew were liars. That bothered me tremendously. Somehow they should have someone duped into lying to her, because she should have known they could not be trusted. The relationship between Emma and Henry was great. How they went from being at odds to friends was great to watch. I would recommend this story to anyone. It was full of fun memories like Jane Eyre, Mansfield Park (for me). I did not really see any Downton Abbey in it because Carson the Butler far exceeds Davies.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bethany House Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
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LibraryThing member MandaT
Julie Klassen has become my new favorite author! I absolutely loved this book. The way she sets the scene makes you feel like your right there with the characters and her story line is very believable. The setting of this book is in the year 1817. I think this time period is fun to read about and
**I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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imagine what it would of been like to live back then. I've learned a lot about the history of this time period by reading her historical fiction books. This book is full of mysterious piano playing at night, people keeping secrets and of course, romance. If your looking for a book that is reminiscent of Jane Eyre and Jane Austen, then pick up this book. You won't be disappointed!**I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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LibraryThing member mattidw
It took me awhile to get into this book but once I did I couldn't put it down. I had to know who was causing all the problems and why they were doing them. I wasn't shocked to find out who the bad people were but I was shocked to find out how and why they were doing the things they did. I knew who
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Emma would end up falling in love with but once again I was shocked at how things ended there as well. The author does a great job to describing the scenes and at times I felt like I was really there with the characters. Show Less
LibraryThing member mom2acat
Emma Smallwood is a young woman who has been helping her father with teaching at his small academy in Longstaple, England. He is still struggling with the grief from the death of Emma's mother 2 years earlier, and is also struggling to keep the academy going too. After the last student graduates,
Once they arrive, they do not feel entirely welcomed
by some of the members of the family; each one seems to be hiding some sort of secret, and soon, mysterious things begin to happen, such as someone sneaking into Emma's room at night, and ripping pages from her journal only to return them later with chilling illustrations on them. Emma also wonders who is playing the pianoforte in the middle the night, when the music room is supposedly empty.
The baronet's two oldest sons remember Emma from their days at her father's academy; she had been an awkward, studious girl back then, but now one of them finds himself drawn to her. Emma had befriended one of the brothers in the past, but now she does not know which one she can trust.
I really enjoyed this story, and I have also read most of this author's others books as well. She is one of my favorite authors when it comes to stories set in the Regency era of England. The characters are well drawn, and she does a great job with really making you feel the atmosphere amidst where the stories are set.
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Emma decides that a change of scenery, and a break from the pressures of running a school is just what her father needs. When her father accepts the job to tutor the two youngest sons of baronet in the spring of 1817, Emma agrees to travel with him to the cliff-top manor on the coast of Cornwall.Once they arrive, they do not feel entirely welcomed
by some of the members of the family; each one seems to be hiding some sort of secret, and soon, mysterious things begin to happen, such as someone sneaking into Emma's room at night, and ripping pages from her journal only to return them later with chilling illustrations on them. Emma also wonders who is playing the pianoforte in the middle the night, when the music room is supposedly empty.
The baronet's two oldest sons remember Emma from their days at her father's academy; she had been an awkward, studious girl back then, but now one of them finds himself drawn to her. Emma had befriended one of the brothers in the past, but now she does not know which one she can trust.
I really enjoyed this story, and I have also read most of this author's others books as well. She is one of my favorite authors when it comes to stories set in the Regency era of England. The characters are well drawn, and she does a great job with really making you feel the atmosphere amidst where the stories are set.
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Awards
Minnesota Book Awards (Finalist — Genre Fiction — 2013)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2013
Physical description
8.5 inches
ISBN
0764210696 / 9780764210693