A Stranger at Fellsworth

A Stranger at Fellsworth by Sarah E. Ladd is the third book in A Treasures of Surrey series. It is 1819 at Wilhurst House in London, England. Annabelle Thorley lives with her brother, Thomas Thorley and his wife, Eleanor since the death of their parents. Annabelle was engaged to Samuel Goodacre until rumors about her father and embezzlement started circulating. Annabelle is out with her maid, Margaret Crosley when her reticule is stolen. Owen Locke, a gamekeeper visiting London from Fellsworth, quickly catches the thief and reclaims it. It turns out that Owen and his employer at staying at Wilhurst House during their stay. Annabelle is told by her brother that she is to marry Cecil Bartrell. Bartrell is offensive, and she has no intention of becoming of his wife. To avoid this loveless marriage and her brother’s wrath, Annabelle plots her escape. Annabelle enlists Owen’s help, and Owen, Annabelle and Crosley are soon on their wall to Fellsworth. Annabelle’s uncle runs the Fellsworth School and both ladies are taken in and given jobs. For the first time in her life, Annabelle must earn her own way. There has been a problem with poachers, and Owen is responsible for finding the culprits. Kirtley Meadow, the land he wishes to purchase, is on the line. Owen and Annabelle see each other on occasion and their friendship deepens into love. But Thomas Thorley is not about to let Annabelle go that easily. What will Owen do to protect Annabelle from harm? Who is behind the poachers and can Owen put a stop to their plundering? Owen and Annabelle’s future hangs in the balance. Will they get their happily ever after? A Stranger at Fellsworth is well-written and engaging. The characters are relatable and appealing. I appreciated the author’s descriptions of the clothes (especially the gowns) worn by the characters. The setting sounded beautiful (who wouldn’t love to visit England). It was interesting to read about a boarding school for underprivileged children. I have not encountered that previously in Regency books. The mystery was pleasing (slightly complex), and I liked how all the elements came together in the end. I am glad that the author included it in the book so it was more than a romance novel. The Christian element is light and blends in beautifully with the story. The romance between Annabelle and Owen is sweet and gentle (subdued). The ending will make you smile. I give A Stranger at Fellsworth 4 out of 5 stars. While this is the third book in the series, it is a stand-alone novel. You do not need to read the previous two books, but, after reading A Stranger at Fellsworth, you will want to read them.

Suspenseful, clean, historical romance! Engaging characters, both strong and positive like Owen and Annabelle and weak and mean like Bartrell and Samuel. Good story and mystery 3 stars due to high ebook price. Voluntarily read ARC thru Netgalley and publisher, for honest review.

By encountering Miss Stilllwell, Annabelle began to realize that no one's future is guarentied. Any ones life circomstances can change unexpectedly. The last portion of the book moves rapidly and engrossingly. Good Book. I plan to read more of this author's books. .