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Gresham Chronicles #3
The Dowry of Miss Lydia Clark
A schoolmistress who may have a handsome dowry is used by an archaeologist to help him win the heart of a local writer. Gresham Chronicles book 3.
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
97 people are currently reading
783 people want to read
About the author
Lawana Blackwell
25 books389 followersLawana Blackwell is a full-time writer with 10 published novels, including the bestselling Gresham Chronicles series. She and her husband have three grown sons and live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
December 10, 2009
I stumbled upon this Gresham series in the library one day, and after overcoming some conceited shame at actually reading a predictable Christian romance, I really began to enjoy the characters and their individual struggles! There are a few reasons this book is worth reading, and one reason it isn't:
+1) The characters are warm-hearted and loveable, as well as diverse. Blackwell possesses the ability to get into the hearts and souls of her characters, and the difficulties they encounter are real and poignant. I gleaned a lot of wise insights from this book and looked forward to every chance I had to read it.
+2) Reading a book like this helped my faith by causing me to see how each day is a step in my walk with Christ. When I read about characters who are challenged in their faith and who chose to follow God, I am motivated also to chose to follow Him.
-1) If you can suspend disbelief, Gresham works as an English village. While Blackwell specializes in writing about England in Victorian times, it is hard to be convinced that you are in England. If you know key things about the time period and place, it is hard to believe that a village like Gresham could be so blind to class and religious differences as it seems to be. If you can pretend that Gresham is an American small town, it makes much more sense in the context of how the characters act toward each other.
+1) The characters are warm-hearted and loveable, as well as diverse. Blackwell possesses the ability to get into the hearts and souls of her characters, and the difficulties they encounter are real and poignant. I gleaned a lot of wise insights from this book and looked forward to every chance I had to read it.
+2) Reading a book like this helped my faith by causing me to see how each day is a step in my walk with Christ. When I read about characters who are challenged in their faith and who chose to follow God, I am motivated also to chose to follow Him.
-1) If you can suspend disbelief, Gresham works as an English village. While Blackwell specializes in writing about England in Victorian times, it is hard to be convinced that you are in England. If you know key things about the time period and place, it is hard to believe that a village like Gresham could be so blind to class and religious differences as it seems to be. If you can pretend that Gresham is an American small town, it makes much more sense in the context of how the characters act toward each other.
February 5, 2012
I've enjoyed many of Lawana Blackwell's novels, but this was one of my favorites.
April 20, 2020
This book was much easier to connect to for me, and I highly suspect it was because I'd finished the previous book in the series quite recently, so the characters are fresh in my mind. This is a series that is best read in quick order, I think, and not with several years' gap between any 2 of the books! 😄
I really enjoyed this return to Gresham. There were several familiar faces (I really liked that we got a continued viewpoint of both Julia and Andrew), and a few of the Gresham locals who were previously background characters but now had a chance for us to learn a bit of their story, as well as one surprising character who joined the 'Gresham family' under less than ideal circumstances.
All throughout the book were the reminders to trust in not only God's plan, but His timing, and I really enjoyed that.
(Side note: I have not laughed so hard at a line in a book in quite some time . . . one character is seen riding a horse furiously to catch someone else before they board a train in Shrewsbury. Upon reaching the intended party, someone says 'I didn't know you could ride like that!' The reply? 'Neither did I!' I laughed so hard, I was afraid my son was going to come into the room to 'shush' me!)
I really enjoyed this return to Gresham. There were several familiar faces (I really liked that we got a continued viewpoint of both Julia and Andrew), and a few of the Gresham locals who were previously background characters but now had a chance for us to learn a bit of their story, as well as one surprising character who joined the 'Gresham family' under less than ideal circumstances.
All throughout the book were the reminders to trust in not only God's plan, but His timing, and I really enjoyed that.
(Side note: I have not laughed so hard at a line in a book in quite some time . . . one character is seen riding a horse furiously to catch someone else before they board a train in Shrewsbury. Upon reaching the intended party, someone says 'I didn't know you could ride like that!' The reply? 'Neither did I!' I laughed so hard, I was afraid my son was going to come into the room to 'shush' me!)
March 7, 2013
I cannot get enough of the people in the village of Gresham. This book was as fun to read as the first two in the series. I'm looking forward to reading the fourth and last book in the series. I have to say, I have not always been impressed with "Christian" fiction. But this series wraps the Christian life into real situations and is quite inspiring. The characters are delightful and original. Good Read
July 13, 2017
A solid 3.5 stars. I enjoyed this one the least of the series but I still enjoyed it. I didn't really care for Noelle's storyline and at times didn't care for her although she ended up maturing by the end. I did like seeing all the returning characters though and was glad some of them got a chance at their HEA in this one. Really liked Julia and Andrew in this, they've both come so far since book 1!
September 15, 2010
It's been quite some time since I read the first two books in this series, therefore it was a lot of work. I did enjoy the read, but I would have enjoyed more of Miss Lydia Clark's story and less of the side characters. While I understand the side characters are from previous books and I usually enjoy seeing how things transpire, I think there could have been a little less of the others and a little more of Miss Clark and her beau. The description on the back of the book didn't prepare for this. In fact, Miss Lydia didn't even appear until somewhere into chapter two or three. I did enjoy the book, but, as much as I enjoy Lawana's stories, I think she could have done better with this one by rearranging somethings and focusing more on Lydia.
January 16, 2016
I really love books like this. Clean, easy to follow, good living. Nothing really out of the ordinary happens, but it's so interesting to read about people's lives in another century. I want to LIVE in Gresham. At that time. It seems so innocent a time to live, when propriety was so important. It seems a much simpler life, too. Sometimes when I'm running hither and yon, I yearn for a slower pace. When I can disappear into a novel like this one, I get that slower pace fulfilled. I'm looking forward to reading the fourth book in the series. When/If I can find it.
November 15, 2021
3.5 ⭐️
September 8, 2020
Plain, spinster schoolteacher Lydia Clark is suddenly the object of two men's interest -- too bad they're not men she would ever consider marrying. Meanwhile, the man in whom she is interested solicits her professional help to gain the attention of another woman.
This was once my favorite book in the series, as I could relate to Lydia's circumstances. It's probably the lightest and most humorous book in the series, what with Harold Sanders' ham-fisted courtship, and the antics of various other characters. There's a secondary plotline about a cast-aside mistress of a member of parliament who is sent to Gresham to get her out of the way, which adds a little more weight to the book (if not more believability, as I find her story line stretches credulity). All in all, still a fun outing, especially if you've enjoyed the rest of the series, but I wouldn't recommend it as a stand-alone.
This was once my favorite book in the series, as I could relate to Lydia's circumstances. It's probably the lightest and most humorous book in the series, what with Harold Sanders' ham-fisted courtship, and the antics of various other characters. There's a secondary plotline about a cast-aside mistress of a member of parliament who is sent to Gresham to get her out of the way, which adds a little more weight to the book (if not more believability, as I find her story line stretches credulity). All in all, still a fun outing, especially if you've enjoyed the rest of the series, but I wouldn't recommend it as a stand-alone.
November 10, 2017
This is a very enjoyable Christian historical fiction book. The main character, Lydia, is a lady I enjoyed getting to know through the course of the book. It was delightful to see the change in the life of one of the more minor characters as he discovered, almost accidentally, how good it felt to treat people nicely and be accepted. The historical details made the city of Gresham come alive, and the information about archaeology gleaned from the two characters doing an archaeological dig was different and fun. This is the only book I have read in the series so far, but I hope to read the others, even though this one will be out of order.
September 23, 2022
I am really enjoying the Gresham Chronicles. The stories are very predictable in that I know how they are going to turn out and have been consistently right. Still, I enjoy finding how just HOW the author gets to the conclusions that I have reach. Just clean, enjoyable, relaxing reading. This is perfect for an audio book.
October 26, 2021
Gresham is totally a Victorian Mitford! This book was a little slow in the beginning and middle for me, but the last third brought together all the storylines so beautifully. I did not see Harold’s happy ending coming but I almost liked it best of all!
August 31, 2018
After reading the second book in this series I couldn't wait to get ahold of this one. This has been my least favorite so far, but still enjoyable. I loved Lydia, and some of the supporting characters, but I really hated Noelle's story. While handled with tact and skill, it just felt dirty in a Christian book. Though I did appreciate the redemption aspect.
I was kept guessing about who would end up getting with who, and I loved seeing the continuation of story plots we've been seeing (The archeologist dig!!).
I was a little baffled
Overall, my least favorite of the books, but I look forward to reading book four.
I was kept guessing about who would end up getting with who, and I loved seeing the continuation of story plots we've been seeing (The archeologist dig!!).
I was a little baffled
Overall, my least favorite of the books, but I look forward to reading book four.
April 29, 2023
5 stars
March 1, 2013
I'm sorry, but I could not force myself to like this book. It was such a disappointment. The only character I really liked was the title character, Lydia Clark, oh, and strangely, Harold Sanderson. :) He made me laugh.
This book just failed me for so many reasons. Firstly, the character of Noelle Somerville: I did not approve of her choice of lifestyle, but was willing to give the benefit of the doubt that her character would change. Instead, she remained much the same through the book, with a change at the end that seemed too sudden to be believeable.
I would prefer to read about "good" (though imperfect) characters such as Mercy Sanderson from book two, or even characters like Jonathan Raleigh, who, though making bad choices in the past, is honestly trying to change.
The book also seemed unbalanced. The first third of the book focused on several point of view characters from book one. After that, the book switched entirely from those characters' point of view. The last page was from Julia's point of view, which I found jarring, because we had not had her point of view for most of the book.
I missed the main point of view character, Phillip, from books one and two. The omission of his point of view surprised and saddened me.
Strangely, Lawana Blackwell seems to have a problem with rushing her endings, which is odd because her books have such a slow burn-- when the ending comes, sometimes it can seem too sudden.
This book was an overall disappointment. (Grade: C.)
This book just failed me for so many reasons. Firstly, the character of Noelle Somerville: I did not approve of her choice of lifestyle, but was willing to give the benefit of the doubt that her character would change. Instead, she remained much the same through the book, with a change at the end that seemed too sudden to be believeable.
I would prefer to read about "good" (though imperfect) characters such as Mercy Sanderson from book two, or even characters like Jonathan Raleigh, who, though making bad choices in the past, is honestly trying to change.
The book also seemed unbalanced. The first third of the book focused on several point of view characters from book one. After that, the book switched entirely from those characters' point of view. The last page was from Julia's point of view, which I found jarring, because we had not had her point of view for most of the book.
I missed the main point of view character, Phillip, from books one and two. The omission of his point of view surprised and saddened me.
Strangely, Lawana Blackwell seems to have a problem with rushing her endings, which is odd because her books have such a slow burn-- when the ending comes, sometimes it can seem too sudden.
This book was an overall disappointment. (Grade: C.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2012
I actually would boost this to 4 1/2 stars. Second time read for me again, and I must say I thoroughly enjoy invisibly roaming the village of Gresham!
The newest (and oldest) of Gresham's inhabitants are introduced and layer upon layer we get to know their characters and challenges. One writing detail I especially like is the way Lawana Blackwell puts the character's thoughts and reactions in italics so we know what they are REALLY thinking. Propriety dominants actions in 19th century England, but those inner feelings take us to the heart and soul of each character. It makes the story so much richer!
I repeat yet again: I love historical England, I love the setting, the time frame, and I love the fascinating personalities that grab me and carry through another enjoyable story!
On to #4....
The newest (and oldest) of Gresham's inhabitants are introduced and layer upon layer we get to know their characters and challenges. One writing detail I especially like is the way Lawana Blackwell puts the character's thoughts and reactions in italics so we know what they are REALLY thinking. Propriety dominants actions in 19th century England, but those inner feelings take us to the heart and soul of each character. It makes the story so much richer!
I repeat yet again: I love historical England, I love the setting, the time frame, and I love the fascinating personalities that grab me and carry through another enjoyable story!
On to #4....
November 16, 2011
As sappy Christian romance novels go, this is as good as it gets. An easy read, some nice historical detail (though occasionally inserted with an awkward hand), characters, plot, and less preachy than most.
None of it is /great/, but it is all competently rendered, and the characters grow in a consistent and believable way, learning lessons over time instead of merely having a Christian epiphany at the end which serves as a --forgive me-- deus ex machina.
I wish it were possible to find Christian inspirational fiction which was really excellent, but given all the horribly-rendered tripe I've seen, I'm happy to see some that's actually well done.
Lawanna Blackwell is also consistently good, which is nice.
None of it is /great/, but it is all competently rendered, and the characters grow in a consistent and believable way, learning lessons over time instead of merely having a Christian epiphany at the end which serves as a --forgive me-- deus ex machina.
I wish it were possible to find Christian inspirational fiction which was really excellent, but given all the horribly-rendered tripe I've seen, I'm happy to see some that's actually well done.
Lawanna Blackwell is also consistently good, which is nice.
November 23, 2012
Lawana Blackwell has written wonderful Christian Historical Romances. This is the last in this series and I have enjoyed it a lot. A young woman whom was raised in a supposedly Christian home with a Vicar/ Father, received little attention and care. She got drawn into a seriously wicked relationship at a young age, but during the story is wooed by the Holy Spirit and has a new life. At the same time, an old maid school teacher thought she would probably never marry until a handsome archeologist comes to town to explore...love is in the air in several places and you will have a pleasant time as relationships weave in and out of the story.
April 30, 2009
So far this has been my favorite of the Gresham Chronicles. I love the two main characters in this story (the schoolmistress and the archeologist) and their developing relationship. It was a great story about friendship being the basis of a solid relationship and being our true selves. I love the subtle and witty humor. It was also a great story about the transformation from personal shallowness and dependence to spiritual depth and reconciliation.
December 23, 2015
Another surprising and pleasant visit to Gresham. If you have not visited this intriguing village in England with cobblestone lanes and interesting town's people with good humor and sincere hearts I encourage you to take a look. There is a host of characters and never a dull moment. The romance is just a subtle hint that makes it all the more inviting. Lawana Blackwell certainly has a way with words.
December 27, 2025
I love this series. I just completed my third re-read of the Gresham Chronicles. I enjoy the small village life, the interesting (and the quirky) characters, and the problems that are just serious enough but not devastating. I appreciate Lawana Blackwell consistently portraying realistic people that seek and receive redemption from their own character flaws, life's difficulties, and estrangement from God. At series end, I feel like I know the citizens of Gresham. I would love to visit!
January 27, 2013
After reading the first two books in this series I had to grab the third. I have completely enjoyed it. Sometimes I find myself chuckling out loud. Other times I am lost in the beautiful detail the writer weaves into the settings. And often I find peace with the kindness she lays before the readers eyes. This has been a blessing to read and share. Bravo again!
April 10, 2013
After finishing this incredible book today, I went to my bookshelves to pick my next book to read and I was greatly disappointed. There will be no more Vicar and Mrs. Phelps, Mr. and Mrs. Clay, until I get the fourth and final book of this series. The characters in these books become your friends. You are left wanting to know what is happening to them. You are always yearning for more.
February 1, 2008
Plain schoolteacher, Miss Clark, is considered an old maid. But things get interesting when a country man decides to court her. When a lodger at the inn falls in love with a novelist who stays in the inn, he asks for Miss Clark's help in deciphering the symbolism in her books.
April 21, 2008
Finished the book today. A good one to curl up in a chair with a cup of hot tea and relax with all the good people in the town. Confession and redempsion is the focal point and well written. Last of a 3 book series.
October 21, 2008
Continuing this Gresham series made interesting turns and twists. I'm looking forward to Book 4 that is just out but I'll wait until I can get it at the library.
A great christian book with many new lessons.
I learned never give up.
A great christian book with many new lessons.
I learned never give up.
March 28, 2010
I devoured this series, but must admit to a certain disappointment with regards to the overall ending. The wedding was sweet, but I wanted something more. Some sort of wrap up of the characters....how their lives may have continued....something.
October 7, 2010
the plot of this series is definitely beginning to feel a little forced and rushed. odd, since there is plenty of room to spread out a bit, that too much seems to happen in the final 20 pages.
i'll still read book 4, with hopeful heart. ;)
i'll still read book 4, with hopeful heart. ;)
November 5, 2008
I really liked this book. There were several plots going on, and each was done very well. The ending was extremely satisfying.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews