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The Maid of Fairbourne Hall
Regency Romance and Mystery from Bestselling Author Julie Klassen.
Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt--and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall? Observing both brothers as an "invisible" servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?On her journey from wellborn lady to servant to uncertain future, Margaret must learn to look past appearances and find the true meaning of "serve one another in love."
Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt--and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall? Observing both brothers as an "invisible" servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?On her journey from wellborn lady to servant to uncertain future, Margaret must learn to look past appearances and find the true meaning of "serve one another in love."
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
468 people are currently reading
10191 people want to read
About the author
Julie Klassen
32 books6,119 followersJulie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her books, The Silent Governess, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Midwest Book Award, the Minnesota Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award, and been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards and ACFW’s Carol Awards. She blogs at http://www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,558 reviews
January 7, 2012
First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.
Julie Klassen is the 21st century's Jane Austen! I knew she was good after reading The Apothocary’s Daughter, but The Maid of Fairbourne Hall really blew me away. Open this book and Klassen will transports you back to the early 1800s, in England, when upper-class Margaret Macy suddenly finds her life altered to that of a lowly housemaid.
The first character that struck me the strongest and grabbed my attention was wild-mannered and dashingly good looking Nathaniel Upchurch. At his first appearance after years in Barabdos, I was glued to the pages and instantly intrigued about this man. Margaret took a little longer for me to warm up to, but through no fault of the author! She was just a bit too uppity. Once she was brought low and humbled as a housemaid—and learned so many lessons about the people who work so hard behind the scenes—she grew on me.
For being a rather thick book, I flew through the pages, easily. And found it very hard to put it down at the end of each chapter. Klassen excels at keeping the reader riveted to the pages, both with her awesome, intricate storyplot and her deep, endearing characters.
The things that Margaret had to go through as a housemaid certainly made for some amusing moments. Especially her first time at emptying a chamber pot! Haha, I was laughing out loud—how gross! As to questionable content, there really wasn’t any worth mentioning. A few of the male characters have less than honorable designs toward women, especially the servant girls, but details are never given.
If you love the Jane Austen classics, then you have to try one of Julie Klassen’s novels and discover that Austen’s brilliance with regency romances lives on! I was swept away in this lovely tale where the reader gets a behind the scenes look at what life was like for the servants in a 19th century English manor. You won’t be disappointed!
Julie Klassen is the 21st century's Jane Austen! I knew she was good after reading The Apothocary’s Daughter, but The Maid of Fairbourne Hall really blew me away. Open this book and Klassen will transports you back to the early 1800s, in England, when upper-class Margaret Macy suddenly finds her life altered to that of a lowly housemaid.
The first character that struck me the strongest and grabbed my attention was wild-mannered and dashingly good looking Nathaniel Upchurch. At his first appearance after years in Barabdos, I was glued to the pages and instantly intrigued about this man. Margaret took a little longer for me to warm up to, but through no fault of the author! She was just a bit too uppity. Once she was brought low and humbled as a housemaid—and learned so many lessons about the people who work so hard behind the scenes—she grew on me.
For being a rather thick book, I flew through the pages, easily. And found it very hard to put it down at the end of each chapter. Klassen excels at keeping the reader riveted to the pages, both with her awesome, intricate storyplot and her deep, endearing characters.
The things that Margaret had to go through as a housemaid certainly made for some amusing moments. Especially her first time at emptying a chamber pot! Haha, I was laughing out loud—how gross! As to questionable content, there really wasn’t any worth mentioning. A few of the male characters have less than honorable designs toward women, especially the servant girls, but details are never given.
If you love the Jane Austen classics, then you have to try one of Julie Klassen’s novels and discover that Austen’s brilliance with regency romances lives on! I was swept away in this lovely tale where the reader gets a behind the scenes look at what life was like for the servants in a 19th century English manor. You won’t be disappointed!
September 30, 2021
A high 4 stars for sure! Yay for a CLEAN romance!
What a pleasant story. I enjoyed myself reading this and the little prayers throughout were touching. I find I like storylines where a high ranking person has to pretend to be a servant. It’s always fun to read 😊
What a pleasant story. I enjoyed myself reading this and the little prayers throughout were touching. I find I like storylines where a high ranking person has to pretend to be a servant. It’s always fun to read 😊
April 3, 2023
”Servants hear everything…. Haven’t you figured that out yet?”
This was fun! It was so interesting to see who was really pulling the strings in the rich side of society and all that went on in the servants’ world. Julie Klassen filled the book with her trademark character development, intriguing plot, and sweet romance.
The one problem I had with it was the ending was super rushed and poorly done. Half the plot lines were never wrapped up, and the few that were actually finished weren’t satisfying in their finishing at all. It was like Klassen had a 410 page limit, and she spent so long with the plot and climax and angst that she only had a short chapter left to end it with. She at least could’ve had an epilogue.
Aside from that, I do recommend this unique, atmospheric Christian historical fiction that takes a peek into the below stairs of the 19th-century society and all that the rich took for granted.
happy reading my loves! 💫
This was fun! It was so interesting to see who was really pulling the strings in the rich side of society and all that went on in the servants’ world. Julie Klassen filled the book with her trademark character development, intriguing plot, and sweet romance.
The one problem I had with it was the ending was super rushed and poorly done. Half the plot lines were never wrapped up, and the few that were actually finished weren’t satisfying in their finishing at all. It was like Klassen had a 410 page limit, and she spent so long with the plot and climax and angst that she only had a short chapter left to end it with. She at least could’ve had an epilogue.
Aside from that, I do recommend this unique, atmospheric Christian historical fiction that takes a peek into the below stairs of the 19th-century society and all that the rich took for granted.
happy reading my loves! 💫
April 12, 2012
I'm not one for the fangirl "OMG YOU HAVE TO READ THIS" stuff, but Julie Klassen’s books have tempted me to engage in some literary peer pressure. "It's not a preachy inspirational, trust me!"
I was drawn to her books by the intriguing titles, beautiful covers and well-written blurbs, and all four of her previous novels exceeded my expectations. I've read them all several times, and I still can’t decide which one to add to my Desert Island Keepers.
I had The Maid of Fairbourne Hall on my "yay coming soon!!!" wishlist for months and bought it the day it came out. But then it lingered in Mount TBR for another few months because, oddly enough, I was afraid I wouldn’t like it. I call it "Book Anxiety," which I may write an essay or treatise about sometime.
ANYWAY, in addition to the run-of-the-Regency-mill title and vaguely disturbing cover photo, I did a mental "huh?" double-take when I saw the "disguised as a servant" plot.
And after reading – well, score one for the Book Anxiety.
The plot…
There’s a big drawback to being an obsessive reader (of any genre, not just romance), in that predictable plots begin to make themselves known earlier and more often. As I was reading The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, I found myself shaking my head and even rolling my eyes a few times. And that's never happened with a Klassen book before.
All of Klassen's books feature conflicted heroines hiding – literally or metaphorically – from their families. Unlike the unique and compelling situations of her previous novels, however, this one fell flat. It takes a LOT of creativity to make this particular premise work successfully, and unfortunately Klassen just couldn't pull it off.
The main characters…
Nathaniel was a decent beta hero – not quite swoon-worthy, but likeable enough for me to root for his HEA.
Margaret, on the other hand, I found to be almost unlikeable, nearly to the point where I didn’t feel she deserved her HEA. Her transformation from spoiled debutante to socially-conscious servant seemed too easy and superficial. She just can’t compare to other Klassen’s previous smart, brave and compelling heroines.
Now let me tell you what I REALLY think…
For me, the biggest deficit was the lack of dramatic tension. I needed a stronger sense of danger to justify Margaret running away, and a MUCH stronger sense of attraction between Margaret and Nathaniel to feel a sustained emotional connection between them.
I had to deduct one star for the eye-rolling Very Convenient Coincidence of Margaret/Nora being hired in her former suitor’s house, AND the random and completely unnecessary plot diversion.
I also had to knock it another half-star for that creepy cover photo (what is wrong with her eyes???). If I wasn’t already a Klassen fan, that cover would NEVER have drawn me in and convinced me this book was worth spending $10. I hate the model's pose and facial expression, and the there’s a weird sort of Bad Photoshop thing that’s really unusual for Bethany House books.
However, I still love Klassen's writing style, especially the sense of history and atmosphere she conveys. I also enjoyed the sub-plot with Helen and Hudson – I think THEIR story would have been much more romantic and inspirational.
Now I need to go type up my rave reviews for all her other books so I won’t feel so guilty for not loving this one.
I was drawn to her books by the intriguing titles, beautiful covers and well-written blurbs, and all four of her previous novels exceeded my expectations. I've read them all several times, and I still can’t decide which one to add to my Desert Island Keepers.
I had The Maid of Fairbourne Hall on my "yay coming soon!!!" wishlist for months and bought it the day it came out. But then it lingered in Mount TBR for another few months because, oddly enough, I was afraid I wouldn’t like it. I call it "Book Anxiety," which I may write an essay or treatise about sometime.
ANYWAY, in addition to the run-of-the-Regency-mill title and vaguely disturbing cover photo, I did a mental "huh?" double-take when I saw the "disguised as a servant" plot.
And after reading – well, score one for the Book Anxiety.
The plot…
There’s a big drawback to being an obsessive reader (of any genre, not just romance), in that predictable plots begin to make themselves known earlier and more often. As I was reading The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, I found myself shaking my head and even rolling my eyes a few times. And that's never happened with a Klassen book before.
All of Klassen's books feature conflicted heroines hiding – literally or metaphorically – from their families. Unlike the unique and compelling situations of her previous novels, however, this one fell flat. It takes a LOT of creativity to make this particular premise work successfully, and unfortunately Klassen just couldn't pull it off.
The main characters…
Nathaniel was a decent beta hero – not quite swoon-worthy, but likeable enough for me to root for his HEA.
Margaret, on the other hand, I found to be almost unlikeable, nearly to the point where I didn’t feel she deserved her HEA. Her transformation from spoiled debutante to socially-conscious servant seemed too easy and superficial. She just can’t compare to other Klassen’s previous smart, brave and compelling heroines.
Now let me tell you what I REALLY think…
For me, the biggest deficit was the lack of dramatic tension. I needed a stronger sense of danger to justify Margaret running away, and a MUCH stronger sense of attraction between Margaret and Nathaniel to feel a sustained emotional connection between them.
I had to deduct one star for the eye-rolling Very Convenient Coincidence of Margaret/Nora being hired in her former suitor’s house, AND the random and completely unnecessary plot diversion.
I also had to knock it another half-star for that creepy cover photo (what is wrong with her eyes???). If I wasn’t already a Klassen fan, that cover would NEVER have drawn me in and convinced me this book was worth spending $10. I hate the model's pose and facial expression, and the there’s a weird sort of Bad Photoshop thing that’s really unusual for Bethany House books.
However, I still love Klassen's writing style, especially the sense of history and atmosphere she conveys. I also enjoyed the sub-plot with Helen and Hudson – I think THEIR story would have been much more romantic and inspirational.
Now I need to go type up my rave reviews for all her other books so I won’t feel so guilty for not loving this one.
March 31, 2016
Continuing on my Klassen splurge...all 400 pages in about 24 hours! It's very hard to put down one of her books. This one was so enjoyable, and the historical research was great. And I loved Margaret/Nora and the hero so much!
November 18, 2018
4.5
This was a really fun read for me. If I had to quickly explain what this book reminded me of, I'd say it's sort of like mixing Jane Austen's Persuasion with Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol. The theme of second chances and discovering how their actions and behavior effected those around them, really stood out to me.
I also enjoyed "seeing" and learning more about what life as a servant, specifically as a housemaid, might have been like. The added side stories that involved ships, a poetry speaking pirate, a secret duel, and sugar plantations in Barbados, made the story feel fresh and exciting.
There were a few moments that some may roll their eyes at and find incredible, but for me, I really enjoyed it. I found it very hard to put down.
This was a really fun read for me. If I had to quickly explain what this book reminded me of, I'd say it's sort of like mixing Jane Austen's Persuasion with Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol. The theme of second chances and discovering how their actions and behavior effected those around them, really stood out to me.
I also enjoyed "seeing" and learning more about what life as a servant, specifically as a housemaid, might have been like. The added side stories that involved ships, a poetry speaking pirate, a secret duel, and sugar plantations in Barbados, made the story feel fresh and exciting.
There were a few moments that some may roll their eyes at and find incredible, but for me, I really enjoyed it. I found it very hard to put down.
September 2, 2018
Me ha gustado mucho, me ha mantenido más que enganchada por saber cómo la protagonista haría frente a todo lo que se le iba presentando. Me ha gustado cómo ha ido evolucionando todo, entre los protagonistas y también la propia protagonista, un personaje que se ve forzado a algo que no se esperaba con tal de huir de algo a lo que se niega rotundamente (con tal de no hacer spoilers... jajajajaja menuda frase!!). Me ha gustado leer una novela de época en la que se conoce más profundamente el punto de vista de los criados. El final me ha emocionado, porque ha sido diferente, sutil y bonito, pero me ha faltado un poquito más. Cuestión de usar mi imaginación 😊
December 21, 2020
Julie Klassen is such a master storyteller of Regency-era fiction. I love all the historical details she includes, from the food to high-society etiquette to servant's responsibilities and how they carried them out. The settings in this novel came alive, and I loved watching the transformation of the main character from the beginning of the story to the conclusion. Another thing I noticed and loved was that all of the secondary characters were robust and interesting too. No cardboard cutouts populating this book! That takes talent, skill, and care and I thoroughly enjoyed the result.
August 14, 2016
sigh, I love this.
July 13, 2016
This is the first book of Julie Klassen that I have read and it will not be my last. I did not think I could enjoy and get as involved in a book as I did with this one.
I want to say one thing before giving my review of the book. Don’t give up on the book. The book is a slow start and I was myself tempted to put it down and skip it. I am so glad that I did not and continued reading on. The story gets better and better and really does a nice job tying everything up at the end.
The story takes you back to England 1815 and introduces the reader to the main character Margaret Macy. Margaret is a somewhat spoiled lady and takes her servants and her comforts for granted at times. This though will all change when Margaret must leave her home and hide from her stepfather. Her stepfather has plans of her marrying his nephew, though Margaret has plans of her own.
As the book goes on, Margaret along her journey of running away and becoming a house servant herself soon learns the meaning of hard work, honesty, thinking of others and even love. Margaret always had suitors but never really gave any one of them a thought. Except for Lewis and Nathaniel Upchurch. These two brothers have asked for her hand and she refused them. Now living under the same roof with them playing a servant will her heart learn to care for one of them or both?
Excellent read and a real treat getting an in depth look at what being a downstairs servant was really like.
I want to say one thing before giving my review of the book. Don’t give up on the book. The book is a slow start and I was myself tempted to put it down and skip it. I am so glad that I did not and continued reading on. The story gets better and better and really does a nice job tying everything up at the end.
The story takes you back to England 1815 and introduces the reader to the main character Margaret Macy. Margaret is a somewhat spoiled lady and takes her servants and her comforts for granted at times. This though will all change when Margaret must leave her home and hide from her stepfather. Her stepfather has plans of her marrying his nephew, though Margaret has plans of her own.
As the book goes on, Margaret along her journey of running away and becoming a house servant herself soon learns the meaning of hard work, honesty, thinking of others and even love. Margaret always had suitors but never really gave any one of them a thought. Except for Lewis and Nathaniel Upchurch. These two brothers have asked for her hand and she refused them. Now living under the same roof with them playing a servant will her heart learn to care for one of them or both?
Excellent read and a real treat getting an in depth look at what being a downstairs servant was really like.
April 12, 2017
I enjoyed this one much more than the last couple of Julie Klassen novels I've read. It may be because the heroine wasn't being punished for being a "fallen woman." Thankfully, this one was much less heavy and preachy, not so full of judgment and condemnation. At the most, some Bible verses and a few quick prayers were all that reminded me that this was a Christian romance, thank God. I do like to read a good romance that focuses more on the emotional aspect of love rather than sex scenes, but also doesn't preach at me. Believe it or not, that's hard to find.
Mainly, this was a story of a selfish, proud woman who finds herself in the position of a servant and learns what it's like to be on the other side. The upstairs-downstairs aspect was interesting. I do tend to enjoy how Klassen's romances explore aspects of the time period that you don't often get in a romance, making them closer to the Historical Fiction end of the spectrum. Although some of it might have been a bit far-fetched, that's often true of Regency romances.
I was able to sit back and enjoy this one. I'm glad I decided to pick it up. I almost didn't after the bitter taste the last couple books had left me.
Mainly, this was a story of a selfish, proud woman who finds herself in the position of a servant and learns what it's like to be on the other side. The upstairs-downstairs aspect was interesting. I do tend to enjoy how Klassen's romances explore aspects of the time period that you don't often get in a romance, making them closer to the Historical Fiction end of the spectrum. Although some of it might have been a bit far-fetched, that's often true of Regency romances.
I was able to sit back and enjoy this one. I'm glad I decided to pick it up. I almost didn't after the bitter taste the last couple books had left me.
March 8, 2012
This kind of reminded me of Jane Austen’s Persuasion, with a twist. There is a bit of a lost-love story going on, which I’m always a sucker for. Margaret flees her home one evening and finds employment in the home of a man who once proposed to her. She wears a disguise and becomes a housemaid. I liked the changes Margaret goes through during her story. She starts off a bit pampered and kind of self-centered, but as the story progresses and she starts to actual work her personality softens and she begins to see people for who they really are. I thought it was a fun twist to have her working at an old “boyfriends” house. I admit though, I was a little disappointed that there weren’t more interactions between the two. I think it was about halfway through the book before they finally crossed paths. I would have liked more interactions, but the ones we do get were great. Overall, I enjoyed the story. You get to see behind the scenes of what the servants lives were like back then.
February 23, 2016
I loved this book!!!
This is the second book I've read by Julie Klassen and I've loved both books so very much!! Julie Klassen is my new favorite author! I was sad when I reached the last page of this book and immediately thought, I need to re-read this book again some day. I loved reading about these characters. I loved reading as Margaret Macy's character developed and changed as she became the person she was in the end, as well as the others who became better and better as the story unfolded. I have another Julie Klassen ebook from the library and I am excited to start it as soon as possible!
This is the second book I've read by Julie Klassen and I've loved both books so very much!! Julie Klassen is my new favorite author! I was sad when I reached the last page of this book and immediately thought, I need to re-read this book again some day. I loved reading about these characters. I loved reading as Margaret Macy's character developed and changed as she became the person she was in the end, as well as the others who became better and better as the story unfolded. I have another Julie Klassen ebook from the library and I am excited to start it as soon as possible!
June 5, 2022
Margaret impulsively runs away from home so her stepfather can't force her into marriage with his smarmy nephew. They want to get their hands on a fortune she will be inheriting from an aunt when she turns 21 in a few months. With no close relatives to turn to, Margaret finds herself alone and penniless and forced to take a job as a maid, planning to wait it out until she comes into her money.
The plot was unlikely and a bit convoluted, but I was never bored. I liked how Margaret's reduced circumstances caused her to reevaluate her position and past behavior and to become a better person. The love story was very nice and there was a bit of adventure and mystery thrown into the mix, separate from Margaret's story. This was my second book by Julie Klassen, and I am looking forward to reading others.
The plot was unlikely and a bit convoluted, but I was never bored. I liked how Margaret's reduced circumstances caused her to reevaluate her position and past behavior and to become a better person. The love story was very nice and there was a bit of adventure and mystery thrown into the mix, separate from Margaret's story. This was my second book by Julie Klassen, and I am looking forward to reading others.
March 10, 2021
Un-put-downable!! I was seriously hooked reading this one & enjoyed it the whole time. While it’s not a perfect novel, I feel like it deserves 5 stars due to my intense interest alone. First, the plot is so stinking fun! I absolutely loved it! I loved that the heroine goes through a character change through the book but she also was likable (even though spoiled) at the beginning as well. Reading about the downstairs life was fascinating! Every time she was in a room of a family member I was sweating it 😅. I loved the redeemed love theme & that the hero loved her the whole time (despite her faults).
My only wish is that the two main characters would have had more interaction. They didn’t interact until like halfway through the book! It is to Klassen’s credit that my interest was still there though- if I was reading a book by another author & they hadn’t interacted until halfway through I probably wouldn’t have had interest & would have given up. Although they didn’t interact as much as other Klassen novels, when they did interact it was super exciting!
Now that I’ve read more Klassen novels it is getting so hard to pick out my favorites.. I really did love this one eventhough there were some things I wanted differently- like an epilogue. I wanted more of the two main characters & their HEA. Overall though, loved it!
My only wish is that the two main characters would have had more interaction. They didn’t interact until like halfway through the book! It is to Klassen’s credit that my interest was still there though- if I was reading a book by another author & they hadn’t interacted until halfway through I probably wouldn’t have had interest & would have given up. Although they didn’t interact as much as other Klassen novels, when they did interact it was super exciting!
Now that I’ve read more Klassen novels it is getting so hard to pick out my favorites.. I really did love this one eventhough there were some things I wanted differently- like an epilogue. I wanted more of the two main characters & their HEA. Overall though, loved it!
February 27, 2012
Author Julie Klassen’s writing gets better and better with each novel she pens. Translation: THE MAID OF FAIRBOURNE HALL is my absolute favorite of all her books. Why? Great question. Here’s a little dissection…
Tension
Will the dashing Mr. Upchurch figure out that the love of his life is the one changing his chamber pot—or won’t he? I love that edge-of-the-seat kind of wondering, and this book delivers a fair amount of it.
Dilemma
Heroine Margaret Macy is certainly in a pickle, and that’s what keeps a reader turning the pages. The outcome of her situation is cloaked until the very end.
Characters to Admire
Hero Nathaniel Upchurch is such an upright and respectable man. Sure he’s got his faults, but underneath he’s a bulwark of what’s good and right in a human.
Informational
One of the best things about Klassen’s books is that they’re full of fun facts about the Regency era. I always learn something about the period.
Description
Who wouldn’t want to live in a manor house? And I did…leastwise for the few days it took me to read the story. I felt like I was there.
THE MAID OF FAIRBOURNE HALL is a fantastic read full of romance, intrigue and a good reminder that it’s in our best interest to not judge others by merely outward appearance.
Tension
Will the dashing Mr. Upchurch figure out that the love of his life is the one changing his chamber pot—or won’t he? I love that edge-of-the-seat kind of wondering, and this book delivers a fair amount of it.
Dilemma
Heroine Margaret Macy is certainly in a pickle, and that’s what keeps a reader turning the pages. The outcome of her situation is cloaked until the very end.
Characters to Admire
Hero Nathaniel Upchurch is such an upright and respectable man. Sure he’s got his faults, but underneath he’s a bulwark of what’s good and right in a human.
Informational
One of the best things about Klassen’s books is that they’re full of fun facts about the Regency era. I always learn something about the period.
Description
Who wouldn’t want to live in a manor house? And I did…leastwise for the few days it took me to read the story. I felt like I was there.
THE MAID OF FAIRBOURNE HALL is a fantastic read full of romance, intrigue and a good reminder that it’s in our best interest to not judge others by merely outward appearance.
October 19, 2015
After hearing a private conversation between her step father and his nephew, in which they plotted to make her marry the young man in order to steal her inheritance, Margaret Macy decides to flee and wait for her upcoming birthday, when she will get that inheritance and will be able to live on her own. With the help of her former maid, Margaret becomes a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a man she once rejected because she wanted to win his brother’s love. Will she be safe in Nathaniel’s home? Will Nathaniel expose her, if he finds out her true identity? After all, her refusal is still painful to him to remember...
What are the right ingredients for a great book? In my opinion a book must have an engaging plot, endearing characters, a little bit of mystery and breathtaking moments. I can safely say that you can find all those things in every novel by Julie Klassen! She is so talented that I have no difficulty at imagining the scenes she describes. Not only are they interesting and beautiful, and help readers feel a part of the story, but Ms. Klassen always adds historical details that are very useful to understand better the characters and their actions and behaviour. In “The Maid of Fairbourne Hall”, for instance, she tells us the life of the servants in the early 1800s through Margaret’s experiences, but she is never boring and you never get tired of reading her words. Everything is described so well and in a very engrossing way that you have the impression of actually being in the nineteenth-century England. Or if not, you start dreaming of at least visiting those places!
Her characters always learn something that will change their lives forever, in a positive way. In the beginning Margaret is spoiled and indifferent towards her servants’ feelings, while by the end of the book she is definitely another person, because her experience changes her and lets her see those people through different eyes. She learns that servants are as worthy of respect as rich people, and even though she should have understood that before, I liked the journey she made which led her to change her mind.
Nathaniel Upchurch is adorable! His behaviour towards Margaret and Nora (Margaret’s alter ego) is commendable. There were several moments where I wanted to yell at him because I thought it was impossible for him not to recognise her, nevertheless he was a perfect gentleman every time they had some chances to speak to each other. I loved their relationship and the way it was depicted.
I have yet to read all of Julie Klassen’s stories, so I am not in the desperate phase when one freaks out because they have to wait a lot before getting her new book, but I am already worried because that awful day will arrive very soon! I loved every novel that I have read by Ms. Klassen, and I heartily recommend all of them, especially if you love England and Regency era. If you have never read her books, I think this one may be a great start!
What are the right ingredients for a great book? In my opinion a book must have an engaging plot, endearing characters, a little bit of mystery and breathtaking moments. I can safely say that you can find all those things in every novel by Julie Klassen! She is so talented that I have no difficulty at imagining the scenes she describes. Not only are they interesting and beautiful, and help readers feel a part of the story, but Ms. Klassen always adds historical details that are very useful to understand better the characters and their actions and behaviour. In “The Maid of Fairbourne Hall”, for instance, she tells us the life of the servants in the early 1800s through Margaret’s experiences, but she is never boring and you never get tired of reading her words. Everything is described so well and in a very engrossing way that you have the impression of actually being in the nineteenth-century England. Or if not, you start dreaming of at least visiting those places!
Her characters always learn something that will change their lives forever, in a positive way. In the beginning Margaret is spoiled and indifferent towards her servants’ feelings, while by the end of the book she is definitely another person, because her experience changes her and lets her see those people through different eyes. She learns that servants are as worthy of respect as rich people, and even though she should have understood that before, I liked the journey she made which led her to change her mind.
Nathaniel Upchurch is adorable! His behaviour towards Margaret and Nora (Margaret’s alter ego) is commendable. There were several moments where I wanted to yell at him because I thought it was impossible for him not to recognise her, nevertheless he was a perfect gentleman every time they had some chances to speak to each other. I loved their relationship and the way it was depicted.
I have yet to read all of Julie Klassen’s stories, so I am not in the desperate phase when one freaks out because they have to wait a lot before getting her new book, but I am already worried because that awful day will arrive very soon! I loved every novel that I have read by Ms. Klassen, and I heartily recommend all of them, especially if you love England and Regency era. If you have never read her books, I think this one may be a great start!
September 17, 2019
Delightful, intriguing, and fascinating characters made this story one that I greatly enjoyed. I love the premise and Margaret's disguise and the discretion of the time period was quite fascinating to watch unfold. This is my first read by Julie Klassen and I was pleased with how well it kept my attention. Not the usual period drama kind of book...has some surprises along the way :)
February 22, 2023
If I could describe this book in one word, it would be cozy. There’s just something about Klassen’s books that make me feel all snuggly, and this one is no different.
I love the upstairs/downstairs theme of this book, and the hidden/secret identity added some light suspense that kept me wondering how the story would unfold. Margaret was such an interesting character; appropriately snobbish without tipping too far into a caricature of a wealthy upper-class woman. I found her to be likable even when she clearly needed a healthy dose of humility. The hero was honorable and swoon-worthy, and watching their romance develop was so sweet… I love how protective he was of her.♡ Even the secondary characters were fun to read and learn more about.
This one has a bit more of a “historical fiction” feel to it than her other books I’ve read, with the up-close look at service in a big house and some background discussion on the English slave trade and its wickedness. The faith elements fit well into the flow of the story.
Despite its length, I still wanted to read more! That’s how I know it’s a good one.☺️
I love the upstairs/downstairs theme of this book, and the hidden/secret identity added some light suspense that kept me wondering how the story would unfold. Margaret was such an interesting character; appropriately snobbish without tipping too far into a caricature of a wealthy upper-class woman. I found her to be likable even when she clearly needed a healthy dose of humility. The hero was honorable and swoon-worthy, and watching their romance develop was so sweet… I love how protective he was of her.♡ Even the secondary characters were fun to read and learn more about.
This one has a bit more of a “historical fiction” feel to it than her other books I’ve read, with the up-close look at service in a big house and some background discussion on the English slave trade and its wickedness. The faith elements fit well into the flow of the story.
Despite its length, I still wanted to read more! That’s how I know it’s a good one.☺️
November 25, 2024
This was soo good! I was interested in this story from start to finish. I could not put it down! I LOVED this plot. It was so much fun! The fact that Margeret had to live among a family she knew well disguised as a maid for weeks without being discovered was soo interesting, especially since there was a little bit of love triangle with her and the brothers. The suspense was just so good! Even though there wasn’t necessarily a lot of huge things happening (until towards the end) there was always that suspense of would Margeret be discovered and what was going to happen next? I was on the edge of my seat more than a few times.😅
I also just loved seeing what the day-to-day life of a housemaid during the early 1800s might have been like. It was even more interesting since it was from the perspective of a woman from a higher station pretending to be a maid. It was just so much fun to read about.
I loved the secret identity trope in this book!
I really liked the characters, especially Margeret! I felt like she had a lot of character growth and I loved watching that happen.
I liked Nathaniel too! While he wasn’t necessarily my favorite of Julie Klassen’s heroes, I did like him, especially halfway through the book when he showed how great of a guy he was.
The romance was so good! I don’t typically like second chance romances but this one was just so well done. The romance really didn’t start showing up until 50% into the book but I found I didn’t mind it at all. I loved that it was slow-burn. For most of the book, the main characters are observing each other from afar and I loved watching them form new opinions about each other. I loved that since their positions were drastically different than they were when they first met, they were able to see a side of each other that they wouldn’t have otherwise been able to see had Margeret not been hired as a maid at Nathaniel’s house.
There was action, danger, secrets, mystery, romance, and faith. Pretty much everything I wanted. I enjoyed it even more than I expected too. I flew through it! In conclusion, I loved it!
2024 reread-
I thoroughly enjoyed rereading this one! This one gives me Persuasion vibes which I love.❤️
I also just loved seeing what the day-to-day life of a housemaid during the early 1800s might have been like. It was even more interesting since it was from the perspective of a woman from a higher station pretending to be a maid. It was just so much fun to read about.
I loved the secret identity trope in this book!
I really liked the characters, especially Margeret! I felt like she had a lot of character growth and I loved watching that happen.
I liked Nathaniel too! While he wasn’t necessarily my favorite of Julie Klassen’s heroes, I did like him, especially halfway through the book when he showed how great of a guy he was.
The romance was so good! I don’t typically like second chance romances but this one was just so well done. The romance really didn’t start showing up until 50% into the book but I found I didn’t mind it at all. I loved that it was slow-burn. For most of the book, the main characters are observing each other from afar and I loved watching them form new opinions about each other. I loved that since their positions were drastically different than they were when they first met, they were able to see a side of each other that they wouldn’t have otherwise been able to see had Margeret not been hired as a maid at Nathaniel’s house.
There was action, danger, secrets, mystery, romance, and faith. Pretty much everything I wanted. I enjoyed it even more than I expected too. I flew through it! In conclusion, I loved it!
2024 reread-
I thoroughly enjoyed rereading this one! This one gives me Persuasion vibes which I love.❤️
October 7, 2025
Delightful and charming. Margaret was a terrible person and then grew as a person. Highly recommend.
February 27, 2020
Una historia diferente, preciosa, de segundas oportunidades, con trazos sociales. Lo que mas me ha gustado ha sido la evolución de Margaret cuando toma conciencia de lo injusta que ha sido y como cambia con el servicio y con Nate. Ese amor que se va cocinando a fuego lento entre los protagonistas a sido tan dulce y emotivo ...que bonito¡¡¡.
Se habla mucho de las condiciones laborales del servicio y de refilón del movimiento contra la exclavitud que empezaba a imperar en Inglaterra a princ. XIX. Eso la hace una novela casi costumbrista que a veces me ha recordado a la gran Jane Austen,
Pero ese final tan abrupto y sin epilogo me ha dejado una sensación agridulce porque me hubiese gustado saber de los protagonistas y por eso le he bajado una estrella cuando iba camino de 5.
A pesa de todo una gran novela
Nota: totalmente blanca, apenas dos besos en todo el libro.
Se habla mucho de las condiciones laborales del servicio y de refilón del movimiento contra la exclavitud que empezaba a imperar en Inglaterra a princ. XIX. Eso la hace una novela casi costumbrista que a veces me ha recordado a la gran Jane Austen,
Pero ese final tan abrupto y sin epilogo me ha dejado una sensación agridulce porque me hubiese gustado saber de los protagonistas y por eso le he bajado una estrella cuando iba camino de 5.
A pesa de todo una gran novela
Nota: totalmente blanca, apenas dos besos en todo el libro.
December 12, 2014
Margaret Macy must escape her home to protect her virtue, inheritance, and future! Her step-father has ordered his scoundrel nephew to court, woo, and even compromise (if necessary) his step daughter, Margaret, in order to force marriage between them and obtain control of her inheritance. With no funds readily available and no family nearby, Margaret disguises herself as a maid and leaves her family and home. In just a few months she will be old enough to claim her inheritance and can come out of hiding. Needing protection and the means to support herself, Margaret looks for work as a maid. By chance she is given a trial job at Fairbourne Hall, an estate that sounds familiar to her. It isn’t until Margaret arrives at Fairbourne Hall that she realizes that a former suitor whose offer of marriage she rejected lives within and is now considered her master.
With all the time we spend amongst servants and learning about life downstairs, this story felt like a Regency version of Downton Abbey! Julie Klassen shows readers what a normal day’s work is like for a housemaid, the rules and restrictions they must abide by, the isolated and lonely life they can live. I love how Ms. Klassen always includes relevant content and historical backdrops that educates and informs her readers about life in other professions and time periods. I learn so much when I read her novels – like the practice of maids facing a wall when a member of the family is passing near and how servants were required to mix or create their own cleaning materials and household commodities like furniture polish and cold cream.
This is my fifth Julie Klassen novel*, so of course I went in expecting a bit of intrigue, personal growth, a tender romance, and inspiration – I was not disappointed! The intrigue about Margaret and her masquerade as a servant was such a fun adventure to follow, and the mysterious activities of Lewis Upchurch and what he was up to at night definitely kept me guessing. But what riveted me most to this story and kept me saying “one chapter more” to myself repeatedly was Nathaniel Upchurch and whether or not he recognized Margaret! I loved, loved, loved the scenes between Nathaniel and Margaret! Nathaniel is a caring, noble, and very admirable hero, and I greatly enjoyed observing Margaret slowly realize bit by bit all his wonderful qualities.
While I enjoyed Margaret as a character and took pleasure in witnessing her gradual transformation and personal growth, I couldn’t help but feel she was at times a little incongruent. On the one hand she is portrayed as a country girl – simple, refreshingly sincere – a doting sister, a daughter who greatly cherished everything about her father. But on the other hand, she also appears to be inconsiderate, self-centered, foolish, and haughty to others. Is she the “unaffected, spirited” beauty that Nathaniel fell in love with? Or is she a selfish and entitled heiress who can’t recall if she ever used the word “please” with a servant before?
Despite my quibble about the heroine, this romantic tale by Julie Klassen was a terrific and exhilarating read that I could not easily put down! Looking for something that combines your love of Jane Austen and Downton Abbey? You should definitely try The Maid at Fairbourne Hall!
With all the time we spend amongst servants and learning about life downstairs, this story felt like a Regency version of Downton Abbey! Julie Klassen shows readers what a normal day’s work is like for a housemaid, the rules and restrictions they must abide by, the isolated and lonely life they can live. I love how Ms. Klassen always includes relevant content and historical backdrops that educates and informs her readers about life in other professions and time periods. I learn so much when I read her novels – like the practice of maids facing a wall when a member of the family is passing near and how servants were required to mix or create their own cleaning materials and household commodities like furniture polish and cold cream.
This is my fifth Julie Klassen novel*, so of course I went in expecting a bit of intrigue, personal growth, a tender romance, and inspiration – I was not disappointed! The intrigue about Margaret and her masquerade as a servant was such a fun adventure to follow, and the mysterious activities of Lewis Upchurch and what he was up to at night definitely kept me guessing. But what riveted me most to this story and kept me saying “one chapter more” to myself repeatedly was Nathaniel Upchurch and whether or not he recognized Margaret! I loved, loved, loved the scenes between Nathaniel and Margaret! Nathaniel is a caring, noble, and very admirable hero, and I greatly enjoyed observing Margaret slowly realize bit by bit all his wonderful qualities.
While I enjoyed Margaret as a character and took pleasure in witnessing her gradual transformation and personal growth, I couldn’t help but feel she was at times a little incongruent. On the one hand she is portrayed as a country girl – simple, refreshingly sincere – a doting sister, a daughter who greatly cherished everything about her father. But on the other hand, she also appears to be inconsiderate, self-centered, foolish, and haughty to others. Is she the “unaffected, spirited” beauty that Nathaniel fell in love with? Or is she a selfish and entitled heiress who can’t recall if she ever used the word “please” with a servant before?
Despite my quibble about the heroine, this romantic tale by Julie Klassen was a terrific and exhilarating read that I could not easily put down! Looking for something that combines your love of Jane Austen and Downton Abbey? You should definitely try The Maid at Fairbourne Hall!
January 16, 2020
I honestly don't know how Julie Klassen does it time and time again, but I am so grateful that she does. The Maid of Fairbourne Hall is just as stunning as her previous books. Stellar in fact. Brilliant. The kind of novel you want to escape into and never leave. Seriously, I read this in one sitting and it's 410 pages.! It wasn't that I couldn't put it down, it was that I refused to! What a perfect way to herald in the New Year!
First and foremost, her research is impeccable and she takes her readers into the belowstairs world of Regency England. That alone was fascinating -- but that we saw it all through the eyes of the aristocracy (Margaret) made so much more of an impact. And what a clever way to throw the heroine way out of her element! Definitely made for a page-turning read.
And Margaret really comes into her own as the story progresses. She transforms from a self-centered young lady of means to a compassionate woman who learns to look beyond her own needs. A very satisfying personal journey.
Add in the suspense over the threat of discovery and the romantic angle (which I can't say much about so as not to give anything away) and you will find The Maid of Fairbourne Hall an incredible and extremely satisfying read. Just clear your calendar before you pick it up because once you start reading, you won't want to stop!
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group."
First and foremost, her research is impeccable and she takes her readers into the belowstairs world of Regency England. That alone was fascinating -- but that we saw it all through the eyes of the aristocracy (Margaret) made so much more of an impact. And what a clever way to throw the heroine way out of her element! Definitely made for a page-turning read.
And Margaret really comes into her own as the story progresses. She transforms from a self-centered young lady of means to a compassionate woman who learns to look beyond her own needs. A very satisfying personal journey.
Add in the suspense over the threat of discovery and the romantic angle (which I can't say much about so as not to give anything away) and you will find The Maid of Fairbourne Hall an incredible and extremely satisfying read. Just clear your calendar before you pick it up because once you start reading, you won't want to stop!
"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group."
June 18, 2016
This book was a slow start for me. I wasn't sure I was going to be able to finish it . I am glad I persevered because it was a really great book.
May 17, 2021
3/5 💫
March 12, 2012
I've had a really good reading streak lately. I've read some GREAT books! I've been depending more on my blogging friends to recommend books before requesting them, and it's made my reading time SO much better. (Thanks y'all!!!)
I'd already read from several bloggers that this book reminded them of Jane Austen. So, while reading this book, I was in the "Jane Austen" mindset. I enjoyed this book so much that if it wasn't for the huge pile of books I need to read, it would have been a perfect opportunity to give a Jane Austen book another try. Even though I haven't seen much of Downtown Abbey, I've seen enough to know that this book also reminded me of that series. If you like it, this would be a good book to try.
Some of my favorite books are when a person learns what it's like to walk in someone's else shoes, especially when it means the poor experience the rich life or vice versa. In The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, Margaret has to flee from her home on an attempt to save her reputation and purity. With no money, she has to take the job of a maid, and change her name to Nora, in an attempt to protect her anonymity. This is far from the life she's used to living. As you can suspect, a sweet romance is added in the mix. I enjoyed every moment of reading The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, and I desperately wished I could have read it quicker than I was allowed! ;)
*A huge thanks to Bethany House for sending me a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
I'd already read from several bloggers that this book reminded them of Jane Austen. So, while reading this book, I was in the "Jane Austen" mindset. I enjoyed this book so much that if it wasn't for the huge pile of books I need to read, it would have been a perfect opportunity to give a Jane Austen book another try. Even though I haven't seen much of Downtown Abbey, I've seen enough to know that this book also reminded me of that series. If you like it, this would be a good book to try.
Some of my favorite books are when a person learns what it's like to walk in someone's else shoes, especially when it means the poor experience the rich life or vice versa. In The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, Margaret has to flee from her home on an attempt to save her reputation and purity. With no money, she has to take the job of a maid, and change her name to Nora, in an attempt to protect her anonymity. This is far from the life she's used to living. As you can suspect, a sweet romance is added in the mix. I enjoyed every moment of reading The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, and I desperately wished I could have read it quicker than I was allowed! ;)
*A huge thanks to Bethany House for sending me a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
September 17, 2018
4/5: Todo iba bien... TODO. La ambientación, el ritmo de la narración, la trama desarrollada en un ámbito distinto al que siempre solemos encontrar en este tipo de libros, la intriga, el misterio, el romance implícito en lo no dicho y la atracción (y tensión) que se puede palpar con las manos... TODO ERA PERFECTO, hasta que llegas a final y te das cuenta que ¡¡¡¡¡¡NO HAY EPILOGO!!!!!! ¿Quien en su sano juicio termina una historia PERFECTA de manera tan seca y precipitada? En fin... Quitando aquel trago amargo me pregunto, ¿Por qué recién estoy descubriendo a esta autora?. Julie Klassen tiene una pluma extraordinaria. En este libro en particular me encanto muchísimo que haya desarrollado toda la trama en las costumbres del servicio domestico de siglo 17, que no es muy usual en la novela romántica, dándole un toque único y especial, ya que nuestra protagonista no es "buena por que si...". Margaret Macy pasa de ser una lady engreída a una mujer que aprende que la vida no es para nada lo que ella creía. Y también nos encontramos una vez mas con una autora que se plantea en serio el hacer visible la posición de la mujer tanto en épocas antiguas como en la actual, ya que muchas de las cosas que en este libro se muestran, siguen complemente igual. Este es un libro RECOMENDADISIMO.
December 4, 2020
Wow, maravilloso.
A pesar de ya haber leído unos cuantos libros de romance histórico este sin duda me ha abierto los ojos aún más sobre el pasado. En libros de época suele verse la perspectiva desde la aristocracia y nuncao muy pocas veces desde la servidumbre. Me gustó que en este libro pudiéramos ver una perspectiva un poco más cruda y realista del periodo de regencia en Reino Unido. Agradezco de todo corazón no haber vivido en una época tan complicada y llena de taboos.
El romance es algo que se va dando muy poco a poco pero que la autora logra recompensar con sus historias de trasfondo. Me gustó la pluma de Julie Klassen, este es el primer libro que leo de ella y espero en un futuro leer otros más.
A pesar de ya haber leído unos cuantos libros de romance histórico este sin duda me ha abierto los ojos aún más sobre el pasado. En libros de época suele verse la perspectiva desde la aristocracia y nunca
El romance es algo que se va dando muy poco a poco pero que la autora logra recompensar con sus historias de trasfondo. Me gustó la pluma de Julie Klassen, este es el primer libro que leo de ella y espero en un futuro leer otros más.
«Un buen británico sabe... que todas las almas son igual de importantes para Dios; que todas deben dar cuenta de sus pecados, y que el Señor pagó su precio por salvarnos». William Cowper
February 13, 2022
Really enjoyed this book! Loved the twists and turns. I enjoyed watching Margaret's personal transformation from spoiled and entitled to humble and selfless.
I also really liked learning about the roles of servants and hired help. It was interesting to read about their exhausting responsibilities!
The one thing I would've liked to see more of was the development of feelings between Margaret and Nathaniel. I sort of felt like I was missing something in regards to their relationship-- like I missed the beginning of their love story and actually, the end for that matter. I wish there was more explanation and dialogue between them. All that to say... still a good book!
I also really liked learning about the roles of servants and hired help. It was interesting to read about their exhausting responsibilities!
The one thing I would've liked to see more of was the development of feelings between Margaret and Nathaniel. I sort of felt like I was missing something in regards to their relationship-- like I missed the beginning of their love story and actually, the end for that matter. I wish there was more explanation and dialogue between them. All that to say... still a good book!
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