The House of Secrets and Lies by Rosie Clarke

 The House of Secrets and Lies

Book Summary

One girl's chance of a new life, or a sacrifice too far?

Cambridgeshire, November 1945

Young Betty Cantrel is just 14-years-old when she reluctantly leaves her troubled family home to take up a position as companion to Frances Crawley, the ailing daughter of Eben and Mary Crawley.

As Betty begins her new life at the grand and imposing The Willows, she becomes drawn to Nathan Crawley, the handsome, yet mysterious nephew and ward of Eben Crawley of whom malicious whispers linger – whispers of a tragedy that claimed the Crawley’s’ young son Edward.

As her friendship grows with Frances, Betty accompanies her to London, where she glimpses another world – a world full of art, music and freedom and she begins to dream of a different kind of life.

But her growing loyalty to both Mary and Frances comes at a cost. And when tragedy strikes, Betty must choose where her true allegiances lie: with the family who opened her eyes to endless possibilities, or the one she left behind.

For young Betty Cantrel, her story is only just beginning…

My Thoughts

The House of Secrets and Lies by Rosie Clarke begins The Crawley Family Saga.  Betty, just fourteen, is sent away to work as a companion. She’s a sympathetic and friendly character.  It will take Betty time to realize what a wonderful opportunity this position is for her.  There will, though, be difficult decisions ahead for Betty. She had to grow up way too soon.   It may be 1945, but the class system still exists in England.  As we get to see, Betty is in a unique position.  As a companion, Betty is not a servant, nor is she a member of the family (makes things tricky). I thought the author captured the time period and locale.  I enjoyed going on the journey with Betty.  It will be interesting to see what happens next.  

The House of Secrets and Lies can be purchased from Amazon*.  The second book in The Crawley Family Saga is The House of Broken Dreams which will be out on May 24.  If you enjoy historical novels, you should check out Rosie Clarke's other books.  Thank you for stopping by today.  On Friday, February 27, I will be sharing my thoughts on Garters, Ghosts, and Wedding Toasts by Angie Fox.  It is the fifteenth book in the Southern Ghost Hunter Mysteries.  I laughed often while reading about Verity and Frankie's latest adventure.  I hope that you have a pleasing day. I am off to enjoy the spring weather. Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

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