Review: The Thief of Lanwyn Manor

The Thief of Lanwyn Manor

by Sarah E. Ladd

About the Book

 In Regency England an advantageous match could set up a lady for life. Julia knows Matthew Blake, copper mine owner and very eligible bachelor, is the gentleman she should set her eyes upon. But why can’t she steal her gaze away from his younger brother, Isaac?

Cornwall, England, 1818

Julia Twethewey needs a diversion to mend her broken heart, so when her cousin invites her to Lanwyn Manor, Julia eagerly accepts. The manor is located at the heart of Cornwall’s mining industry, and as a guest Julia is swept into its intricate world. It’s not long, though, before she realizes something dark lurks within the home’s ancient halls.

As a respected mine owner’s younger son, Isaac Blake is determined to keep his late father’s legacy alive through the family business, despite his brother’s careless attitude. In order to save their livelihood—and that of the people around them—the brothers approach the master of Lanwyn Manor with plans to bolster the floundering local industry. Isaac can’t deny his attraction to the man’s charming niece, but his brother has made clear his intentions to court the lovely visitor. And Isaac knows his place.

When tragedy strikes, mysteries arise, and valuables go missing, Julia and Isaac find they are pulled together in a swirl of strange circumstances, but despite their best efforts to bow to social expectations, their hearts aren’t so keen to surrender.

My Thoughts

A beloved author of Regency fiction returns with a tale of ghosts, a missing treasure, and love. Set against the hauntingly beautiful geography of Cornwall, The Thief of Lanwyn Manor is a treat for readers that love Regency fiction with a subtle Gothic flair.

One of my favorite things about Sarah E. Ladd’s novels is her engaging style of writing. All of her books contain enough mystery to ground the novel and keep the story flowing, but are wrapped in such a refreshingly sweet voice that makes me feel right at home. Like cozying up with a warm blanket on a stormy day.

Ladd’s characters always shine, and her latest cast is among my favorites. Julia was a lovely heroine. She’s kind and caring with enough spunk to give her courage. The sort of girl you want to befriend. I also really liked Isaac. He was a strong, thoughtful hero with a good heart. My favorite kind! I thought he and Julia made a wonderful couple.

The plot is filled with twists and turns, adding excitement to the novel. Who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt with a few ghostly myths thrown in for good measure?

Historical romance readers will delight in The Thief of Lanwyn Manor. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.