Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Bethany House Publishers (2010), Edition: Reprinted, 448 pages
Description
Fiction. Historical Fiction. A dangerous secret...an overheard conversation...and a woman who is not what she seems. Will hidden pasts ruin their hope of finding love?
User reviews
LibraryThing member dk_phoenix
I read/reviewed this book as part of a blog tour for Baker/Revell publishing, so I'm going to paste in the review right from my blog:
Synopsis:
Olivia Keene is running away from her own secrets, but when she accidentally overhears a dangerous secret belonging to the Lord Bradley, she has little
As Miss. Keene teaches the children at Brightwell Court, Lord Bradley finds himself both drawn to her and frustrated by her. What is the secret she hides, and why does his heart feel so conflicted?
Thoughts:
At first glance, The Silent Governess is an intriguing tale of relationships in nineteenth-century England: familiar characters, social mores, elegant costuming, and people who never quite say what they mean. It’s fairly typical of this style of historical fiction, and fans of Julie Klassen’s previous work will find much to appreciate here.
The characters are well-drawn, and sub-plots arise at every turn — and not only that, but Klassen manages to weave them all together at the end with skill, leading to a relatively satisfying conclusion. However…
My primary issue with the book was the amount of crying/weeping/tears from the main character throughout the first half of the novel. Every ten pages or so, Miss. Keene either cries, holds back tears, or feels teardrops rolling down her cheeks. Yes, admittedly, she goes through quite a bit at the beginning of the book, but do we really need to join her at every moment of her tears? It gets rather tedious, and at one point I actually shouted at the novel, “Listen, just suck it up and deal with it!”
At the end of the book, the resolution with Miss. Keene’s father also seemed somewhat contrived. It felt as through Klassen was desperate to tie up all the threads into a neat little bow, and that subplot in particular was resolved far too conveniently and neatly to be believable. It’s eye-roll worthy, to say the least.
That aside, the book held my interest at length — I read the entire thing in one evening. I suspect that, despite its flaws, people who are a fan of this genre and of Klassen’s work will enjoy The Silent Governess. On the whole, I much preferred Klassen’s Lady of Milkweed Manor — but, it’s worth giving this one a try.
I’d also recommend it for church libraries, as I think it would find quite a large readership there.
Synopsis:
Olivia Keene is running away from her own secrets, but when she accidentally overhears a dangerous secret belonging to the Lord Bradley, she has little
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choice but to accept a post at his father’s court — a place where Lord Bradley can ensure Olivia’s silence about his own secret.As Miss. Keene teaches the children at Brightwell Court, Lord Bradley finds himself both drawn to her and frustrated by her. What is the secret she hides, and why does his heart feel so conflicted?
Thoughts:
At first glance, The Silent Governess is an intriguing tale of relationships in nineteenth-century England: familiar characters, social mores, elegant costuming, and people who never quite say what they mean. It’s fairly typical of this style of historical fiction, and fans of Julie Klassen’s previous work will find much to appreciate here.
The characters are well-drawn, and sub-plots arise at every turn — and not only that, but Klassen manages to weave them all together at the end with skill, leading to a relatively satisfying conclusion. However…
My primary issue with the book was the amount of crying/weeping/tears from the main character throughout the first half of the novel. Every ten pages or so, Miss. Keene either cries, holds back tears, or feels teardrops rolling down her cheeks. Yes, admittedly, she goes through quite a bit at the beginning of the book, but do we really need to join her at every moment of her tears? It gets rather tedious, and at one point I actually shouted at the novel, “Listen, just suck it up and deal with it!”
At the end of the book, the resolution with Miss. Keene’s father also seemed somewhat contrived. It felt as through Klassen was desperate to tie up all the threads into a neat little bow, and that subplot in particular was resolved far too conveniently and neatly to be believable. It’s eye-roll worthy, to say the least.
That aside, the book held my interest at length — I read the entire thing in one evening. I suspect that, despite its flaws, people who are a fan of this genre and of Klassen’s work will enjoy The Silent Governess. On the whole, I much preferred Klassen’s Lady of Milkweed Manor — but, it’s worth giving this one a try.
I’d also recommend it for church libraries, as I think it would find quite a large readership there.
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LibraryThing member Cynara
Well, here's the good news; after the first dozen or so chapters I was interested in the story and happy to read to the end. Was I diverted? Yes. Was I deeply involved or moved? No. This is a good-hearted fireside tale, and I'm sure it will be enjoyed by many.
Now that I've been even-handed and
Preposterous:
1. Once our heroine, the shabby-genteel Miss Olivia Keene, hears Edward's Big Secret, why does he install her in his house as a nurserymaid? What the hell is his plan? Why not buy her a coach ticket to Bath, slip twenty pounds into her purse, and tell her never to show her face again? Why does he give this suspicious character the care of his improbably pleasant and lovely little cousins? Oh, so he can fall in love with her. Right.
2. Why does she put up with being held captive in his house and being forced to feign muteness? Why does she persist in this charade when she keeps on talking in her sleep? Why doesn't she write home and find out what happened after the violent scene that cast her out? Oh. Because she has to stay around and fall in love with Edward. Right.
3. Two encounters with wild dogs. Two?
Familiar:
1. A rival for Edward's love torn right from the pages of Jane Eyre.
2. Everyone falls in love with Olivia's meek, pretty, motherly ways, from the lowest scullery maid to the Earl himself. They all sit around her sickbed after a wild dog attack, fretting and realizing how much they have come to care for the sweet, pretty thing.
3. Edward's sneering, haughty, distrustful ways, which only hide his growing fascination with Olivia.
4. Rough, sexually threatening poachers; rough, sexually insistent groom; caddish, sexually insistent worthless cousin. They all pop up at frequent intervals, mostly so Olivia can be caught unwilling in their arms and then be sneered at distrustfully by Edward.
I do give Olivia some points for bopping one of them in the eye. The author's later attempts to redeem one of them is in period (oh, all men do that, it doesn't mean anything), but feels like a bit of a cop-out if one takes the modern view that a man who gropes an unwilling nurserymaid in a darkened corridor is not a man to befriend.
5. I'm not sure how common this is in romance novels, but I saw the hero's secret humble hobby coming a mile away, possibly because it reminded me of Moning's Beyond the Highland Mist. Why do all these sons of a hundred earls sneak off to the carpentry shed as soon as no-one's looking? Highland warrior-lord or English nobility, apparently all old-fashioned aristocrats just loved to spend an afternoon making wooden toys for the kids, just like any suburban dad.
Period Problems
While the period of the setting wasn't made clear, the comparisons to Austen and the characters' clothing suggest that it's set in the earlier part of the 1800s. How much anachronisms bother you really depends on how picky you are and how much you know about the period - so, a big deal for some, not a problem for others. There was nothing really weird, but here are a few things that stuck out for me.
1. the hero's desire to be a good, affectionate father figure, involved in his cousin's lives. Not impossible in that period, but worthy of comment.
2. the "good" characters' transgressions of social rank, especially the easy emotional intimacy between people of different ranks. The young lord casually volunteering to drive the governess to the county market? I doubt it.
3. the waltzing scene - the waltz was considered borderline pornographic when it first came out, and was still risqué in the 1820s. I'm not sure a proper governess would teach it to her students, let alone dance it with her employer.
4. the oddly progressive behaviour, like an employer keeping on a pregnant & married servant, a gentleman allowing his wife to work outside the home, and an employer allowing a servant to attend school.
Loopy ending
Oh my. Bassinet-swapping all over the place. I began to wonder if anyone was raised with the right last name. I know that Big Revelations regarding one's True Lineage are characteristic of Victorian melodrama (though not as characteristic of Regency novels), but I thought they were telegraphed too early, one even before page 70. I am plot-twist impaired, so if I'm getting it, you probably will.
The ending was bizarrely happy. I think she's going for a Jane Eyre-ish "reader, I married him," but there are so many miraculous reconciliations, reformations, accommodations between enemies, new babies, softenings of old grudges and... and.... I just couldn't quite take it all in. All the good people were rewarded and the bad people... went away.
After all that, it was still readable, and there were some things I genuinely liked; Edward's journey from Regency lordling to middle-class dad; Bob the pet pheasant; Olivia's commitment to her own ambitions; the subtlety of the religious theme.
Really, the romance itself didn't end up feeling like the main plotline to me. The unravelling of the various plots and schemes and the discovery of all the to-ing and fro-ing of twenty years before held more of my interest than the rather bland attachment between the hero and heroine. If I reread this, it will be for the supporting characters and the gentle but engaging pace.
Now that I've been even-handed and
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fair, please let me continue to its minor flaws. This book is preposterous, uses some overfamiliar tricks, is not entirely true to its period, and downright loopy when it comes to the ending. None of these stop it from being a good read, but you'll forgive me if I get more specific.Preposterous:
1. Once our heroine, the shabby-genteel Miss Olivia Keene, hears Edward's Big Secret, why does he install her in his house as a nurserymaid? What the hell is his plan? Why not buy her a coach ticket to Bath, slip twenty pounds into her purse, and tell her never to show her face again? Why does he give this suspicious character the care of his improbably pleasant and lovely little cousins? Oh, so he can fall in love with her. Right.
2. Why does she put up with being held captive in his house and being forced to feign muteness? Why does she persist in this charade when she keeps on talking in her sleep? Why doesn't she write home and find out what happened after the violent scene that cast her out? Oh. Because she has to stay around and fall in love with Edward. Right.
3. Two encounters with wild dogs. Two?
Familiar:
1. A rival for Edward's love torn right from the pages of Jane Eyre.
2. Everyone falls in love with Olivia's meek, pretty, motherly ways, from the lowest scullery maid to the Earl himself. They all sit around her sickbed after a wild dog attack, fretting and realizing how much they have come to care for the sweet, pretty thing.
3. Edward's sneering, haughty, distrustful ways, which only hide his growing fascination with Olivia.
4. Rough, sexually threatening poachers; rough, sexually insistent groom; caddish, sexually insistent worthless cousin. They all pop up at frequent intervals, mostly so Olivia can be caught unwilling in their arms and then be sneered at distrustfully by Edward.
I do give Olivia some points for bopping one of them in the eye. The author's later attempts to redeem one of them is in period (oh, all men do that, it doesn't mean anything), but feels like a bit of a cop-out if one takes the modern view that a man who gropes an unwilling nurserymaid in a darkened corridor is not a man to befriend.
5. I'm not sure how common this is in romance novels, but I saw the hero's secret humble hobby coming a mile away, possibly because it reminded me of Moning's Beyond the Highland Mist. Why do all these sons of a hundred earls sneak off to the carpentry shed as soon as no-one's looking? Highland warrior-lord or English nobility, apparently all old-fashioned aristocrats just loved to spend an afternoon making wooden toys for the kids, just like any suburban dad.
Period Problems
While the period of the setting wasn't made clear, the comparisons to Austen and the characters' clothing suggest that it's set in the earlier part of the 1800s. How much anachronisms bother you really depends on how picky you are and how much you know about the period - so, a big deal for some, not a problem for others. There was nothing really weird, but here are a few things that stuck out for me.
1. the hero's desire to be a good, affectionate father figure, involved in his cousin's lives. Not impossible in that period, but worthy of comment.
2. the "good" characters' transgressions of social rank, especially the easy emotional intimacy between people of different ranks. The young lord casually volunteering to drive the governess to the county market? I doubt it.
3. the waltzing scene - the waltz was considered borderline pornographic when it first came out, and was still risqué in the 1820s. I'm not sure a proper governess would teach it to her students, let alone dance it with her employer.
4. the oddly progressive behaviour, like an employer keeping on a pregnant & married servant, a gentleman allowing his wife to work outside the home, and an employer allowing a servant to attend school.
Loopy ending
Oh my. Bassinet-swapping all over the place. I began to wonder if anyone was raised with the right last name. I know that Big Revelations regarding one's True Lineage are characteristic of Victorian melodrama (though not as characteristic of Regency novels), but I thought they were telegraphed too early, one even before page 70. I am plot-twist impaired, so if I'm getting it, you probably will.
The ending was bizarrely happy. I think she's going for a Jane Eyre-ish "reader, I married him," but there are so many miraculous reconciliations, reformations, accommodations between enemies, new babies, softenings of old grudges and... and.... I just couldn't quite take it all in. All the good people were rewarded and the bad people... went away.
After all that, it was still readable, and there were some things I genuinely liked; Edward's journey from Regency lordling to middle-class dad; Bob the pet pheasant; Olivia's commitment to her own ambitions; the subtlety of the religious theme.
Really, the romance itself didn't end up feeling like the main plotline to me. The unravelling of the various plots and schemes and the discovery of all the to-ing and fro-ing of twenty years before held more of my interest than the rather bland attachment between the hero and heroine. If I reread this, it will be for the supporting characters and the gentle but engaging pace.
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LibraryThing member kaulsu
Overall, I found this to be an okay read. I didn't have to force myself to finish it. Each chapter was headed by an epigram from a pertinent period piece. Not a novel literary device, but still enjoyable. Klassen's writing style leaves a bit to be desired in that I found the beginning of the book
The notion that characters think of God during the good times and the bad was not forced, but seemed real. None of the characters (including the Vicar) went around spouting chapter and verse.
It was refreshing to read a book that wasn't also a sexual technique manual.
I wished she had spent a bit more time discussing the political and history of the times. One of the benefits of reading historical fiction is the painless amount of information regarding dress, manners, and "the times!"
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to have choppy transitions as she was introducing characters. Several times I felt the need to go back to check the dialog. Simple tricks would have helped: Using different initials for the 3 children would have helped to more quickly understand who was who (Audrey, Andrew, and Alexander). And then, what a surprise to suddenly be "in the head" of a second protagonist (Edward). Yet that didn't happen enough to make it a two-character point-of-view. The notion that characters think of God during the good times and the bad was not forced, but seemed real. None of the characters (including the Vicar) went around spouting chapter and verse.
It was refreshing to read a book that wasn't also a sexual technique manual.
I wished she had spent a bit more time discussing the political and history of the times. One of the benefits of reading historical fiction is the painless amount of information regarding dress, manners, and "the times!"
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LibraryThing member MaryWysong
This book was supposed to be in the style of Jane Austen or Charlotte Bronte, two of my favorites, so I was excited to read it. I did thoroughly enjoy it and looked for more to read by this author; however, saying it is akin to Bronte or Austen is very unrealistic. They penned lasting, profound,
I did like the story, and the unusual (yet hokey,) plot of a governess who must pretend she is unable to speak. Of course, as with many novels, this story features a happy ending with the young, innocent woman and grouchy, richer, older man falling in love. As much as I like a happy ending, (and this one was rather obvious from the start,) the characters' relationships weren't really developed enough to make it believable. They didn't have long conversations, instead the man just decided he was in love and the woman just went with it. Yay for hormones! Good thing fiction allows for a suspension of disbelief :)
This novel has a Christian background but it definitely is not thrown in your face. It is more of a nonchalant mention without much preaching. So, while the ideas may appeal to Christians, they shouldn't be offensive to non Christians. The main character is simply a nice, innocent young girl.
If you enjoy reading historical fiction or Victorian novels, etc., from a different era that was not so sexually overt as our own, you might enjoy this sweet little story.
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classic novels, while this one is really more of an enjoyable, yet forgettable story. It does take place in the same era as an Austen novel and of course features a governess, which is in keeping with Anne or Charlotte Bronte (or pretty much any educated female author of that time;) however, it does not feature the same thought provoking social statements. That said, there is certainly nothing wrong with simply reading a book for fun and enjoying it!I did like the story, and the unusual (yet hokey,) plot of a governess who must pretend she is unable to speak. Of course, as with many novels, this story features a happy ending with the young, innocent woman and grouchy, richer, older man falling in love. As much as I like a happy ending, (and this one was rather obvious from the start,) the characters' relationships weren't really developed enough to make it believable. They didn't have long conversations, instead the man just decided he was in love and the woman just went with it. Yay for hormones! Good thing fiction allows for a suspension of disbelief :)
This novel has a Christian background but it definitely is not thrown in your face. It is more of a nonchalant mention without much preaching. So, while the ideas may appeal to Christians, they shouldn't be offensive to non Christians. The main character is simply a nice, innocent young girl.
If you enjoy reading historical fiction or Victorian novels, etc., from a different era that was not so sexually overt as our own, you might enjoy this sweet little story.
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LibraryThing member collsers
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a light, quick read, perfect for recovering from school finals. The setting was well thought out, with no glaring anachronisms or inaccuracies, and the characters were (for the most part) believable. My only issues were with how the mystery worked out--I
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generally like to have more clues so that I can try to figure it out on my own, and here the villain seemed to come from nowhere. Although the cover compares it to Jane Austen (why does every period romance published these days have to be compared to her?), I would recommend it instead for fans of Bronte's "Jane Eyre." Show Less
LibraryThing member heymay
Having read Klassen's previous two works, I was not disappointed with The Silent Governess. Weaving together historical detail with drama, it did not take long to be immersed into the story of Olivia Keene in 19th century England. The characters were worth getting to know and there was enough
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intrigue surrounding the mystery of Olivia and Lord Bradley's families to keep me in suspense until the end. In addition to the imagery and emotion of the story, the author's message of faith permeated the novel in a gentle and implicit way. The theme of God working all things together for good and for His glory was evident, even if it was not overtly proclaimed throughout the book. Although there were a few instances where unfamiliar words were left without explanation, they did not detract from the overall story. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy learning about life in Regency England and who want to read a story of redemption and hope. Show Less
LibraryThing member bookgirl59
Olivea Keene, through mishap, finds herself homeless. On her way to seek employment she is waylaid by fate and Lord Bradley. After gaining his trust and the trust of others she uncovers the mystery of not only Lord Bradleys past but of her own.
I enjoyed this book greatly, the plot was well written
I enjoyed this book greatly, the plot was well written
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and I was pleasantly surpised at the end. I am pleased that it was morally clean, although perhaps a little too obviously preachy in places for me. Show Less
LibraryThing member cherryblossommj
Holding a flavoring of "Jane Eyre" and a hint of "The Importance of Being Earnest" fully in the environment of a regency tale, "The Silent Governess" brings forth mystery and intrigue with romance to make your heart melt. Previously while reading the first two novels by Julie Klassen I was
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appreciate, being after the second novel a true fan. The words on her page teach lessons and mold your heart loving her characters and their fictious lives. Just moments away from finishing this novel I can already tell you that I cannot wait for the next wonderful story from the imagination of Author Julie Klassen. Olivia Keene has a journey to endure before she can possibly get what she truly desires and that is only if the cards turn in her favor. Following the mystery of memories, inheritance, relatives and secrets with wild dogs, frightening poachers, scheming gentry, and spoiled cousins imaginations run wild and truths are hard to hold onto. What really matters in the end is a big question and each chapter gets the readers closer to solutions to the equations put forth. Once again Julie thrills with perfect quotes at the beginning of each chapter and it is truly apparent that her research it thorough and fun. More please! Now I just might have to go read some Jane Austen. Show Less
LibraryThing member kalypso219
This is the first book that I've read by Julie Klassen and it did not disappoint. It was a very good historical mystery/romance. Good plot and great characters. I loved Olivia and Edward's story and will plan to read more by Julie Klassen.
LibraryThing member judyg54
This was an enjoyable story to read. I really liked the fact that I couldn't put all the pieces together until the very ending of the book. It kept me interested and wanting to know how everything was going to come together at the end. Olivia Keene finds herself leaving her home and family quite
There are alot of other interesting characters in this book and alot of mystery surrounding these characters. It is well worth the time to read this book!
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suddenly. She happens upon a secret conversation at a party and finds herself being forced to take a position at Brightwell Court, under the scrutiny of Lord Bradley. Lord Edward Bradley has a secret and if the truth gets out he could lose his inheritance, his home and everthing. Which is why he must keep Olivia under his watchful care, since she overheard this secret. But keeping an eye on a lady he is not sure he can trust, soons turns to more for both of them.There are alot of other interesting characters in this book and alot of mystery surrounding these characters. It is well worth the time to read this book!
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LibraryThing member kirbyowns
In Julie Klassen's book [The Silent Governess] we find Olivia Keene fleeing her home because she believes she has committed a crime. After overhearing a private conversation she is caught as a trespasser and thrown into jail. While in jail she is injured and cannot speak. To keep her from telling
My thoughts:
I enjoyed this book very much. I couldn't wait to read the next part whenever I had time.
The ending seemed to wrap up a little quickly for my taste. I would have preferred another chapter or two that explained events in a realistic time period.
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his secret if she does recover her voice, Lord Bradley hires her to help take care of his niece and nephew. As Olivia wins the hearts of most on the estate, we see the lives of many changing.My thoughts:
I enjoyed this book very much. I couldn't wait to read the next part whenever I had time.
The ending seemed to wrap up a little quickly for my taste. I would have preferred another chapter or two that explained events in a realistic time period.
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LibraryThing member love2readnovels
Olivia Keene walks into her dimly lit home to find her mother being choked. She quickly grabs a fire iron and strikes the man hard on the back of the head. Her mother gives Olivia a purse with only a few items in it and gives her instructions of where to go and tells her not to return home. When
The back of the book described this story as moving, mysterious and romantic and I think that is an outstanding description. I was moved by the way this author took you though the emotions of Olivia being sent from her home into a new situation where she is not sure what will become of her life. Of the way one conversation can change a whole mans life and future. It was a mystery of whether or not it was her father she struck. And who was sending those blasted letters? How will all come out in the end? The author slowly leaks out little pieces of information as you continue through the story so at the end the puzzle all fits together very deliciously! I must say that this story was very romantic. I absolutely loved the scene where Olivia and Edward were dancing. The faith aspect of the story was done very well. I highly recommend the Silent Governess. You won't be disappointed. Thank you Bethany House for providing me with a complimentary review copy.
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she finally looks inside the purse, there is a clipping that mentions Brightwell Court. As she is traveling to the place her mother instructed her to, she passes by Brightwell Court and decides to take a closer look. While she is secretively looking around she overhears a conversation she should not have heard. To ensure her silence and keep and eye on her Lord Bradley insists she stay on at Brightwell Court to help with his niece and nephew. The problem is he is beginning to have feelings for Olivia. Thank you Bethany House for providing me with a complimentary review copy.The back of the book described this story as moving, mysterious and romantic and I think that is an outstanding description. I was moved by the way this author took you though the emotions of Olivia being sent from her home into a new situation where she is not sure what will become of her life. Of the way one conversation can change a whole mans life and future. It was a mystery of whether or not it was her father she struck. And who was sending those blasted letters? How will all come out in the end? The author slowly leaks out little pieces of information as you continue through the story so at the end the puzzle all fits together very deliciously! I must say that this story was very romantic. I absolutely loved the scene where Olivia and Edward were dancing. The faith aspect of the story was done very well. I highly recommend the Silent Governess. You won't be disappointed. Thank you Bethany House for providing me with a complimentary review copy.
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LibraryThing member lunalin
I enjoyed this light hearted mystery/romance. What annoyed me was that it was not categorized as Christian fiction.
LibraryThing member Kegsoccer
I received this through the Er program and was very happy with it. The governess aspect put me in mind of "Jane Eyre" but this is an entirely different story. Overall I'd recommend it for historical fiction lovers, and those who enjoy Christian fiction- though the faith part of it does not take
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away from the rest of the story if you aren't crazy about that type of fiction. Show Less
LibraryThing member emperatrix
I received an ARC copy of Julie Klassen's The Silent Governess through the LibraryThing Early Reviewer program. The book was published in January. This review is based on an unedited galley proof.
Every month I browse through the LT review books and select anything that sounds interesting. The
***spoiler alert***
Miss Olivia Keene, schoolteacher, faithful daughter, and mathematical genius, has but one ambition--to open a school for girls, until she becomes tangled in a series of events that will make her question her very identity and change her life forever.
When Olivia witnesses a man attacking her mother, she rushes to her aid. Thinking only of saving her dear mother's life, Olivia strikes the man with a fire-iron and sees him drop to the ground, wounded and unconcious. Certain that she has murdered him, she flees at her mother's urging, seeking shelter in the woods and planning to travel to St. Aldwyn's School for Girls, where she hopes to find shelter and a situation. But one complication inevitably leads to another and Olivia encounters a group of poachers in the woods and comes under attack herself before a grizzled, haggard man named Croome secures her escape.
With nowhere to turn, Olivia wanders into the town of Arlington and makes the acquaintance of the local vicar, who offers to assist her and help her on her way. After a run-in with the local earl, Lord Bradley of Brightwell Court, Olivia becomes curious and decides to take a look at Brightwell Court. It is just her luck that she happens to overhear a conversation that can destroy Lord Bradley's position as an earl and his future as a peer. Caught by the manor's gamekeeper, Olivia is imprisoned in the local gaol in a cell with one of the poachers that threatened her during her journey through the woods. When the poacher tries to strangle her, Olivia is saved just in time, but temporarily loses her voice as a consequence. Not trusting her to keep his dreadful secret, Lord Bradley takes her into his home and assigns her a position in the nursery, looking after his two young step-cousins. Olivia's strength and integrity, and her innate generosity make her a favorite among the members of the household, but when her voice returns, Lord Bradley refuses to believe she will not divulge his secret and ensures that she will stay on as a governess.
No longer a member of the staff, Olivia's position places her above the other servants, but beneath the family. It is a lonely life that she leads as a governess, until she unexpectedly finds a friend in Lord Bradley, who comes to view her in a new light when he learns that Olivia also has secrets she would rather keep.
---
A touch of romance and mystery lend suspense to the tale in a way that would make the Brontes proud, while the manners and setting are Austenian indeed. The plot is fast-paced and the characters genuine. I was afraid that Olivia would be a self-effacing, highly moral miss (Christian fiction, silent governess... my prejudice again), but she was smart and daring, and defended her honor with untiring grace. Lord Bradley's admiration for Olivia evolved naturally, and the bond between them emerged in a manner similar to Jane and Mr. Rochester's, a pair of flawed equals. The mystery subplot was engaging and kept me guessing throughout, while the glimpse of life in a country house added to the idea that Olivia and Lord Bradley were part of a community filled with individuals, each of whom had their own story to tell.
Olivia's experience of life as a governess reminded me of the series "Berkeley Square," and the epigraphs at the head of each chapter (quoted from documents and texts concerning the lives of governesses) were particularly insightful. Overall, a great read for any Regency fan.
Gricel @ things-she-read.org
Every month I browse through the LT review books and select anything that sounds interesting. The
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Silent Governess captured my attention because it was described as a cross between Jane Austen and Jane Eyre, so that was enough to pique my curiosity. I did not know at the time that it was published as Christian fiction, which may have skewed my perception and made me turn away; however, I am glad that I was unaware of this because the novel was a delightful surprise and not at all the moralistic treatise that my personal prejudice would have led me to expect.***spoiler alert***
Miss Olivia Keene, schoolteacher, faithful daughter, and mathematical genius, has but one ambition--to open a school for girls, until she becomes tangled in a series of events that will make her question her very identity and change her life forever.
When Olivia witnesses a man attacking her mother, she rushes to her aid. Thinking only of saving her dear mother's life, Olivia strikes the man with a fire-iron and sees him drop to the ground, wounded and unconcious. Certain that she has murdered him, she flees at her mother's urging, seeking shelter in the woods and planning to travel to St. Aldwyn's School for Girls, where she hopes to find shelter and a situation. But one complication inevitably leads to another and Olivia encounters a group of poachers in the woods and comes under attack herself before a grizzled, haggard man named Croome secures her escape.
With nowhere to turn, Olivia wanders into the town of Arlington and makes the acquaintance of the local vicar, who offers to assist her and help her on her way. After a run-in with the local earl, Lord Bradley of Brightwell Court, Olivia becomes curious and decides to take a look at Brightwell Court. It is just her luck that she happens to overhear a conversation that can destroy Lord Bradley's position as an earl and his future as a peer. Caught by the manor's gamekeeper, Olivia is imprisoned in the local gaol in a cell with one of the poachers that threatened her during her journey through the woods. When the poacher tries to strangle her, Olivia is saved just in time, but temporarily loses her voice as a consequence. Not trusting her to keep his dreadful secret, Lord Bradley takes her into his home and assigns her a position in the nursery, looking after his two young step-cousins. Olivia's strength and integrity, and her innate generosity make her a favorite among the members of the household, but when her voice returns, Lord Bradley refuses to believe she will not divulge his secret and ensures that she will stay on as a governess.
No longer a member of the staff, Olivia's position places her above the other servants, but beneath the family. It is a lonely life that she leads as a governess, until she unexpectedly finds a friend in Lord Bradley, who comes to view her in a new light when he learns that Olivia also has secrets she would rather keep.
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A touch of romance and mystery lend suspense to the tale in a way that would make the Brontes proud, while the manners and setting are Austenian indeed. The plot is fast-paced and the characters genuine. I was afraid that Olivia would be a self-effacing, highly moral miss (Christian fiction, silent governess... my prejudice again), but she was smart and daring, and defended her honor with untiring grace. Lord Bradley's admiration for Olivia evolved naturally, and the bond between them emerged in a manner similar to Jane and Mr. Rochester's, a pair of flawed equals. The mystery subplot was engaging and kept me guessing throughout, while the glimpse of life in a country house added to the idea that Olivia and Lord Bradley were part of a community filled with individuals, each of whom had their own story to tell.
Olivia's experience of life as a governess reminded me of the series "Berkeley Square," and the epigraphs at the head of each chapter (quoted from documents and texts concerning the lives of governesses) were particularly insightful. Overall, a great read for any Regency fan.
Gricel @ things-she-read.org
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LibraryThing member TheTrueBookAddict
The Silent Governess is a Regency "romance" in the Christian fiction genre. I am not an avid reader of Christian fiction because in the past I have found it to be too preachy. However, this was not the case with this book. The main character, Olivia, has been through a traumatic experience and
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while fleeing her situation, she finds herself mixed up in another's dark secret. Not only must she keep her secret, but she must also keep the secret of Lord Bradley. All this secrecy makes for an intriguing read because you really never find out the whole truth until the very end. I usually figure out the plot before then and while I had my theories early on, I really did not have it 100% right. Also, while this is technically a "romance", I was so glad that it was not overly sappy and that it did not contain any explicit sex scenes. It was actually very Jane Austen in tone and content, although I will not go so far as to say that it was as well written as an Austen novel. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good Regency historical and/or is a Jane Austen fan. Show Less
LibraryThing member fredalss
A well written plot, great characterizations. Co-incidence plays too strong a role at one point, but aside from that quibble, this is a great read.
LibraryThing member ChicGeekGirl21
Julie Klassen aims somewhere between Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte with this one, providing plenty of intrigue, mystery, and secret identities along with a good dose of social commentary and subtle humor.
Despite the unrealistically happy ending which ties everything up in a bow, The Silent
Despite the unrealistically happy ending which ties everything up in a bow, The Silent
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Governess is a pleasant read--mainly due to the author's beautiful writing and vivid descriptions. I'm looking forward to reading The Lady of Milkweed Manor, since I hear it's Klassen's best. Show Less
LibraryThing member kathleen586
Julie Klassen is a pretty good writer, and the plot of this book was interesting. I liked the characters, all the little mysteries going on, and the theme of redemption the book had. I don't know why it is called The Silent Governess, since Olivia is never a silent governess. She is a silent
I thought the romance was the weakest part of the book. I never particularly liked Edward and I think he should have had more character development. Actually, Edward and Olivia's whole relationship needed more development. The way it is presented in the book makes it seem like it was all physical attraction, even though I'm sure that is not what the author meant. One thing that bugged me is how many times the author threw in instances where Edward and Olivia touch each other, sometimes accidentally (e.g. falling on top of each other while ice skating), but often purposely (e.g. Edward touching Olivia's cheek for no reason). There are also two instances where they walk into the other's bedchamber unannounced; both of these instances are quite inappropriate and unnecessary, and I don't think they actually would have happened. I didn't like the proposal scene either, because he doesn't actually propose, he just says something like "Do you know how long I've wanted to kiss you?" and then there is quite the description of the kiss. Anyway, the romance is probably only 20% of the book, and I did enjoy most of the book.
ETA: One other thing that bothered me is how often Olivia shrugged. I can't really imagine a Regency lady shrugging, so it bugged me every time she did it.
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under-nurse, then a non-silent governess. I kept wondering how she could be a governess if she was silent, but that never happened.I thought the romance was the weakest part of the book. I never particularly liked Edward and I think he should have had more character development. Actually, Edward and Olivia's whole relationship needed more development. The way it is presented in the book makes it seem like it was all physical attraction, even though I'm sure that is not what the author meant. One thing that bugged me is how many times the author threw in instances where Edward and Olivia touch each other, sometimes accidentally (e.g. falling on top of each other while ice skating), but often purposely (e.g. Edward touching Olivia's cheek for no reason). There are also two instances where they walk into the other's bedchamber unannounced; both of these instances are quite inappropriate and unnecessary, and I don't think they actually would have happened. I didn't like the proposal scene either, because he doesn't actually propose, he just says something like "Do you know how long I've wanted to kiss you?" and then there is quite the description of the kiss. Anyway, the romance is probably only 20% of the book, and I did enjoy most of the book.
ETA: One other thing that bothered me is how often Olivia shrugged. I can't really imagine a Regency lady shrugging, so it bugged me every time she did it.
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LibraryThing member msh09
I could not put this book down, it was so well-written and clever. I loved the characters and the story. It will leave you wanting to read more from Julie Klassen. Great book!! I picked it for our book club to read and I'm the first to finish it. I can't wait to hear what everyone else thought. I'm
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sure it will be a hit. Show Less
LibraryThing member chrirob
Olivia is keeping a secret, a dangerous secret...yet when she flees her home and family, she never dreams that she will be required to harbor more secrets. When the dashing, Lord Bradley comes across her flight from danger and appears to be a potential haven of safety, Olivia grasps that
This was a great book! I devoured it in 3 days! Another great novel from Ms. Klassen!
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hope...only to be dashed into more intrigue, secrets, and danger. As Olivia fights to keep herself and her family safe, she is also trying to help Lord Bradley keep his family honor and members safe as well...Will the secrets never end?This was a great book! I devoured it in 3 days! Another great novel from Ms. Klassen!
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LibraryThing member elizabethcfelt
Olivia Keene must leave her old life, a secret keeping her separated from her family. On her way to a girls' school, Olivia overhears a conversation between Lord Brightwell and his son Lord Bradley, in which the father admits that the son is adopted. When Lord Bradley learns that Olivia has heard
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his secret, he hires her into his household to keep an eye on her. A recent accident has made Olivia temporarily mute, and so she cannot betray his secret which would ruin his status as a peer of the realm. This is a simple summary of a complex story. Klassen weaves a complicated tapestry of love and suspense that is not easily unfurled. Every character seems to have a secret, and their pasts are displayed and unwoven in a sophisticated and pleasing manner. The main love affair is exciting, if chaste, The Silent Governess being a Christian romance. The religious elements in the story are subtle and completely natural for its characters. Show Less
LibraryThing member BookwormMama14
Olivia Keene has been forced into silence to protect the secrets of the past and the security of the future.
Being in the wrong place at the wrong time causes events to spin out of control for Olivia. Her life takes a completely different direction than she anticipated. So many secrets, so many
One of the things that I enjoy the most about Mrs. Klassen’s work is that she is so talented at bringing scripture and truth into her books. Our leading lady, Olivia Keene, does not have much, if any faith, in the beginning of our story. She suffers loss and heartache, but in the end discovers the truth about the Father, his love and tenderness, and that “All things work together for good”. I love witnessing the journey of faith and redemption in a very believable way. At first I was slightly taken aback by the fact that the lines between classes become blurred in her books. But the more I read the more I enjoy it. It allows for more imagination. The depth of character in Julie Klassen’s books is astounding. I feel like I know Olivia and Edward on a personal level. That it would not be odd if I were to receive a phone call from Olivia and chat for hours. Julie Klassen has won 3 Christy Awards to date and I sincerely hope that more awards are in the very near future for her.
bookwormmama14.blogspot.com
Being in the wrong place at the wrong time causes events to spin out of control for Olivia. Her life takes a completely different direction than she anticipated. So many secrets, so many
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mysteries of the past. Edward Bradley is fearful of what the truth will mean for his future. His father, Lord Brightwell, must answer for his past actions. We get to see this story through the eyes of Edward and Olivia. They both struggle with their identity when everything they thought they knew about themselves starts to crumble. Through their journey we discover what it means to find your identity in Christ and how being a child of The King, our future is always certain. One of the things that I enjoy the most about Mrs. Klassen’s work is that she is so talented at bringing scripture and truth into her books. Our leading lady, Olivia Keene, does not have much, if any faith, in the beginning of our story. She suffers loss and heartache, but in the end discovers the truth about the Father, his love and tenderness, and that “All things work together for good”. I love witnessing the journey of faith and redemption in a very believable way. At first I was slightly taken aback by the fact that the lines between classes become blurred in her books. But the more I read the more I enjoy it. It allows for more imagination. The depth of character in Julie Klassen’s books is astounding. I feel like I know Olivia and Edward on a personal level. That it would not be odd if I were to receive a phone call from Olivia and chat for hours. Julie Klassen has won 3 Christy Awards to date and I sincerely hope that more awards are in the very near future for her.
bookwormmama14.blogspot.com
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LibraryThing member lyssa73
I like period pieces, so this was right up my alley.
LibraryThing member cherryblossommj
Holding a flavoring of "Jane Eyre" and a hint of "The Importance of Being Earnest" fully in the environment of a regency tale, "The Silent Governess" brings forth mystery and intrigue with romance to make your heart melt. Previously while reading the first two novels by Julie Klassen I was
Olivia Keene has a journey to endure before she can possibly get what she truly desires and that is only if the cards turn in her favor. Following the mystery of memories, inheritance, relatives and secrets with wild dogs, frightening poachers, scheming gentry, and spoiled cousins imaginations run wild and truths are hard to hold onto. What really matters in the end is a big question and each chapter gets the readers closer to solutions to the equations put forth.
Once again Julie thrills with perfect quotes at the beginning of each chapter and it is truly apparent that her research it thorough and fun. More please! Now I just might have to go read some Jane Austen.
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appreciate, being after the second novel a true fan. The words on her page teach lessons and mold your heart loving her characters and their fictious lives. Just moments away from finishing this novel I can already tell you that I cannot wait for the next wonderful story from the imagination of Author Julie Klassen. Olivia Keene has a journey to endure before she can possibly get what she truly desires and that is only if the cards turn in her favor. Following the mystery of memories, inheritance, relatives and secrets with wild dogs, frightening poachers, scheming gentry, and spoiled cousins imaginations run wild and truths are hard to hold onto. What really matters in the end is a big question and each chapter gets the readers closer to solutions to the equations put forth.
Once again Julie thrills with perfect quotes at the beginning of each chapter and it is truly apparent that her research it thorough and fun. More please! Now I just might have to go read some Jane Austen.
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Awards
INSPY (Shortlist — Historical Fiction — 2010)
Christy Awards (Nominee — Historical Romance — 2010)
Minnesota Book Awards (Finalist — Genre Fiction — 2010)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2009
Physical description
8.38 inches
ISBN
0764207075 / 9780764207075