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Manor of Secrets
The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .
Lady Charlotte Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.
Janie Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.
Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.
Lady Charlotte Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.
Janie Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.
Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 28, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
June 8, 2016
This was a wonderful coming of age story that was very feel-good but more than fluff. Manor of secrets is aptly named, and the mysteries of the past are pretty shocking. I loved finding out the dirt! An upstairs/downstairs look at life in a manor house that smacks of Downton Abby. It was lovely!
Charlotte is determined to have an adventure. She's only 16, but her life has already been mapped out for her. Her mother has had Charlotte's husband picked out for a very long time and seems eager to be finished with the responsibility of a daughter. Lady Diane is a cold, strict woman. I kind of hated her. Poor Charlotte, her life is so stifling that she secretly writes stories featuring members of both the household and her family. I cracked up at this bit from one that must be about Mommy Dearest.
"...it was about the lady mistress of a great house in the country. A kind of female Bluebeard, who took in helpless maidens and tormented them."
Janie, a below stairs kitchen maid, was hard to warm to right away. Now I see that she was just more realistic and hadn't lead a sheltered life like Charlotte of the Manor. She's practical because she has to be. The dual narrative worked out beautifully!
Charlotte's best friend Fran is a nasty girl! She treats servants like they aren't even people. I feel for Charlotte! If this is all she's had for a best friend, plus her awful mother, it's no wonder that she sought out companionship below stairs. Janie is quite reluctant to become her friend, and with good reason.
The supporting characters were just as well written. Lawrence, the gorgeous, charming footman. Lord Andrew Broadhurst turned out to be much different than I thought he would be. There's just so much to love in this story. I'll definitly pick up anything else Katherine Longshore writes. 4 stars, highly recommended.
Charlotte is determined to have an adventure. She's only 16, but her life has already been mapped out for her. Her mother has had Charlotte's husband picked out for a very long time and seems eager to be finished with the responsibility of a daughter. Lady Diane is a cold, strict woman. I kind of hated her. Poor Charlotte, her life is so stifling that she secretly writes stories featuring members of both the household and her family. I cracked up at this bit from one that must be about Mommy Dearest.
"...it was about the lady mistress of a great house in the country. A kind of female Bluebeard, who took in helpless maidens and tormented them."
Janie, a below stairs kitchen maid, was hard to warm to right away. Now I see that she was just more realistic and hadn't lead a sheltered life like Charlotte of the Manor. She's practical because she has to be. The dual narrative worked out beautifully!
Charlotte's best friend Fran is a nasty girl! She treats servants like they aren't even people. I feel for Charlotte! If this is all she's had for a best friend, plus her awful mother, it's no wonder that she sought out companionship below stairs. Janie is quite reluctant to become her friend, and with good reason.
The supporting characters were just as well written. Lawrence, the gorgeous, charming footman. Lord Andrew Broadhurst turned out to be much different than I thought he would be. There's just so much to love in this story. I'll definitly pick up anything else Katherine Longshore writes. 4 stars, highly recommended.
September 24, 2019
*4.5
Wow, this was so good. Like, wow. I enjoyed that so much more than I thought I would. Full review to come.
Wow, this was so good. Like, wow. I enjoyed that so much more than I thought I would. Full review to come.
March 9, 2014
To see full review click on one of the following links:
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Booklikes for just text
I imagine the creation for this book went like this (of course this is my imagination only and it probably really didn’t occur exactly this way-or at least I would hope):
Slimy Publishing Executive: You know what’s popular, Downton Abbey. I think it would make a great YA book.
Helpless Editor: You think? I mean, we have plenty of historicals listed in our catalog already. I don’ think…
Slimy Publishing Executive: Good. That will make plotting this one easier. We’ll use some of the drama for those books and get someone to watch all of PBS’s Manor House and bada bling bada boom we have a book. Now who was that author who wrote all those books inspired by The Tudors.
Helpless Editor: Katherine Longshore? I don’t know if she was exactly inspired by The Tudors.
Slimy Publishing Executive: Sure she was. How else would anyone write about boring old history? Now I want you to call Kathy and get a book deal written. Make sure there’s a love triangle. Two heroines with a major secret. And tell her to get excessive with the descriptions concerning dresses. Our readers love reading about dresses…
Okay, the conversation probably didn’t exactly go like that, but Katherine Longshore does have a number of books published about Tudor England–one of my favorite periods-and I can’t help wondering if she was inspired by that TV show. Another thing I wonder is if those books felt as scripted as this particular endeavor does.
My blog with gifs/a>
Booklikes for just text
I imagine the creation for this book went like this (of course this is my imagination only and it probably really didn’t occur exactly this way-or at least I would hope):
Slimy Publishing Executive: You know what’s popular, Downton Abbey. I think it would make a great YA book.
Helpless Editor: You think? I mean, we have plenty of historicals listed in our catalog already. I don’ think…
Slimy Publishing Executive: Good. That will make plotting this one easier. We’ll use some of the drama for those books and get someone to watch all of PBS’s Manor House and bada bling bada boom we have a book. Now who was that author who wrote all those books inspired by The Tudors.
Helpless Editor: Katherine Longshore? I don’t know if she was exactly inspired by The Tudors.
Slimy Publishing Executive: Sure she was. How else would anyone write about boring old history? Now I want you to call Kathy and get a book deal written. Make sure there’s a love triangle. Two heroines with a major secret. And tell her to get excessive with the descriptions concerning dresses. Our readers love reading about dresses…
Okay, the conversation probably didn’t exactly go like that, but Katherine Longshore does have a number of books published about Tudor England–one of my favorite periods-and I can’t help wondering if she was inspired by that TV show. Another thing I wonder is if those books felt as scripted as this particular endeavor does.
September 12, 2018
Not bad for YA, but nothing special. I've previously read & enjoyed Longshore's Tudor series; this one, however, lacked their sophisticated storylines & voice.
One thing Longshore always does well is write interesting male characters, & MoS is no exception. Harry the hall-boy, Lord Andrew, & even manwhore footman Lawrence are all very vivid. So props for that. I also liked Janie & Harry's romance -- they were sweet without being too sugary. Side characters like Charlotte's highborn friend Fran & snooty mother Lady Diane, as well as Janie's mother Mrs Seward, were also strong presences in their brief pagetime.
...But it probably shows my age that I didn't much connect to Janie & had absolutely zero interest in Charlotte herself. As I've grown older I find myself less & less patient with coddled, rich heroines -- particularly teenage ones -- who whine & moan about their boring lives of permanent financial security & creature comforts that smother their independence. 🙄 Bitch, please.
Another review mentions the lack of 'feel' to the backdrop, & I have to agree. Despite Andrew & Aunt Beatrice's proclamations of how change is coming & both classes will be forced to adapt, there's no real urgency or looming cloud, no feeling of forced gentility & coming uproar -- two things I always associate with Edwardian England. As with genteel Southern plantations in Civil War fiction, I want to dread what's coming -- to sense that things will never be this way again, whether for good or bad.
So, as I said...not awful, but overall it felt too young for my jaded eyes of adulthood. Methinks Edwardian novels are something I like the idea of more than the actual thing -- all those UPSTAIRS/DOWNSTAIRS cliches tend to bore me.
One thing Longshore always does well is write interesting male characters, & MoS is no exception. Harry the hall-boy, Lord Andrew, & even manwhore footman Lawrence are all very vivid. So props for that. I also liked Janie & Harry's romance -- they were sweet without being too sugary. Side characters like Charlotte's highborn friend Fran & snooty mother Lady Diane, as well as Janie's mother Mrs Seward, were also strong presences in their brief pagetime.
...But it probably shows my age that I didn't much connect to Janie & had absolutely zero interest in Charlotte herself. As I've grown older I find myself less & less patient with coddled, rich heroines -- particularly teenage ones -- who whine & moan about their boring lives of permanent financial security & creature comforts that smother their independence. 🙄 Bitch, please.
Another review mentions the lack of 'feel' to the backdrop, & I have to agree. Despite Andrew & Aunt Beatrice's proclamations of how change is coming & both classes will be forced to adapt, there's no real urgency or looming cloud, no feeling of forced gentility & coming uproar -- two things I always associate with Edwardian England. As with genteel Southern plantations in Civil War fiction, I want to dread what's coming -- to sense that things will never be this way again, whether for good or bad.
So, as I said...not awful, but overall it felt too young for my jaded eyes of adulthood. Methinks Edwardian novels are something I like the idea of more than the actual thing -- all those UPSTAIRS/DOWNSTAIRS cliches tend to bore me.
April 12, 2018
I picked this one up as one of those "filler reads" while I waited for some of the books I ordered from the library to come in. I expected this to be just one of those generic British historical romance novels with over the top romance. Fortunately, it wasn't; the writing was decent, the story flowed reasonably well, the characters had depth and greatly matured throughout the novel.
While this novel isn't great (and is actually somewhat forgettable), it's solid and is one of those books that you can use as light reading material.
While this novel isn't great (and is actually somewhat forgettable), it's solid and is one of those books that you can use as light reading material.
August 14, 2014
Read This Review & More Like It At Ageless Pages Reviews
2.5 Stars
The nineteen-tens were such a turbulent time in English history, but except for a few references to cars, I feel like this book could have been set anywhere around the Regency/Georgian eras.
Lady Charlotte is the youngest of six and feels forgotten and overlooked. Her mother is an old-fashioned lady and wants Charlotte to follow in her footsteps by marrying a lord, having children, and running a household. But Charlotte’s a dreamer who wants to marry for love and write grand adventure stories. There is literally nothing in that description that couldn’t happen in any time period. I read that story set in 1280. I’ve read that story in 1820. And now I’m reading it in 1911. It’s boring and nothing new is brought to the table.
The other point of view, Janie, the adventurous kitchen maid, is a little more interesting, if only because I haven’t read a lot of novels set Downstairs. Janie was born at THE MANOR, but left for most of her childhood to starve on an uncle’s farm. Now she’s back and determined to keep her head down and do good work so she can stay forever. But Charlotte’s mom is super strict, especially about romance between staff members, which is unfortunate because Janie is trapped in a love triangle between the dashing footman and the dependable hall boy.
For a book with secrets in the title, the story is actually pretty light on them. It’s really about the friendship that blooms between a highborn lady and her servant and the backlash as the staff gossips uproariously and makes Janie’s life miserable for thinking above her station. I do like that idea, but it’s also where my biggest problem lies. Charlotte is a selfish, spoiled, pain in the ass. Her head is so far in the clouds, she can’t see what she’s doing to Janie’s life and she really doesn’t care.
This is highlighted clearly in a conversation between the main characters in which Charlotte throws a temper tantrum because Sarah, her maid, won’t send Janie upstairs. Janie finally arrives, terrified that Charlotte has information about a servant who is going to be sacked, maybe even Janie herself. Charlotte, without acknowledging the distress she’s put Janie through, confesses that her mother’s top marriage prospect is going to talk to her father after dinner. This is why she embarrassed Sarah, got Janie in trouble, and turned the staff upside down. Because she doesn’t want a proposal from a hot, rich lord.
I will shed one single tear for her. Ugh.
The book is at its most successful when Charlotte is Downstairs and learning about the lives and hopes of her staff. Unfortunately, too much time is devoted to the love heptagon, (Charlotte and Janie and Sarah all like Lawrence, who’s a bit of a cad, but Fran likes Andrew who likes Charlotte and Harry likes Janie who also likes him, but she likes Lawrence too, but he kissed...I need a lie down,) instead of the girls learning and growing. The big secret joining them all is actually a surprise when it’s revealed, but the way it plays out is pretty nuts. It asks us to forgive all of the villains, (who now act totally against type,) ignore the fallout of a scandal, and see characters change their lifelong dreams on a dime. There’s also a mysterious illness that is absolutely never explained.
Manor of Secrets is not poorly written, though, again, I wish the time period felt more impactful on daily life. Charlotte and Janie’s voices are different, which is always important to multi-POV stories. I don’t hate any of the love interests that I’m supposed to like. But, I also don’t like the characters I’m supposed to like. Even with the big twist end, I don’t have a single strong feeling about anything but the fact that Charlotte is an overdramatic crybaby.
2.5 Stars
The nineteen-tens were such a turbulent time in English history, but except for a few references to cars, I feel like this book could have been set anywhere around the Regency/Georgian eras.
Lady Charlotte is the youngest of six and feels forgotten and overlooked. Her mother is an old-fashioned lady and wants Charlotte to follow in her footsteps by marrying a lord, having children, and running a household. But Charlotte’s a dreamer who wants to marry for love and write grand adventure stories. There is literally nothing in that description that couldn’t happen in any time period. I read that story set in 1280. I’ve read that story in 1820. And now I’m reading it in 1911. It’s boring and nothing new is brought to the table.
The other point of view, Janie, the adventurous kitchen maid, is a little more interesting, if only because I haven’t read a lot of novels set Downstairs. Janie was born at THE MANOR, but left for most of her childhood to starve on an uncle’s farm. Now she’s back and determined to keep her head down and do good work so she can stay forever. But Charlotte’s mom is super strict, especially about romance between staff members, which is unfortunate because Janie is trapped in a love triangle between the dashing footman and the dependable hall boy.
For a book with secrets in the title, the story is actually pretty light on them. It’s really about the friendship that blooms between a highborn lady and her servant and the backlash as the staff gossips uproariously and makes Janie’s life miserable for thinking above her station. I do like that idea, but it’s also where my biggest problem lies. Charlotte is a selfish, spoiled, pain in the ass. Her head is so far in the clouds, she can’t see what she’s doing to Janie’s life and she really doesn’t care.
This is highlighted clearly in a conversation between the main characters in which Charlotte throws a temper tantrum because Sarah, her maid, won’t send Janie upstairs. Janie finally arrives, terrified that Charlotte has information about a servant who is going to be sacked, maybe even Janie herself. Charlotte, without acknowledging the distress she’s put Janie through, confesses that her mother’s top marriage prospect is going to talk to her father after dinner. This is why she embarrassed Sarah, got Janie in trouble, and turned the staff upside down. Because she doesn’t want a proposal from a hot, rich lord.
I will shed one single tear for her. Ugh.
The book is at its most successful when Charlotte is Downstairs and learning about the lives and hopes of her staff. Unfortunately, too much time is devoted to the love heptagon, (Charlotte and Janie and Sarah all like Lawrence, who’s a bit of a cad, but Fran likes Andrew who likes Charlotte and Harry likes Janie who also likes him, but she likes Lawrence too, but he kissed...I need a lie down,) instead of the girls learning and growing. The big secret joining them all is actually a surprise when it’s revealed, but the way it plays out is pretty nuts. It asks us to forgive all of the villains, (who now act totally against type,) ignore the fallout of a scandal, and see characters change their lifelong dreams on a dime. There’s also a mysterious illness that is absolutely never explained.
Manor of Secrets is not poorly written, though, again, I wish the time period felt more impactful on daily life. Charlotte and Janie’s voices are different, which is always important to multi-POV stories. I don’t hate any of the love interests that I’m supposed to like. But, I also don’t like the characters I’m supposed to like. Even with the big twist end, I don’t have a single strong feeling about anything but the fact that Charlotte is an overdramatic crybaby.
September 6, 2016
I've been a fan of Katherine Longshore's other two books, GILT and TARNISH, so I was really looking forward to digging into the Downton Abbey vibe of MANOR OF SECRETS. The disparity between the constrained and cold life that comes as the price of luxury and the choatic existence in the servant's quarters is well-drawn. As always, the author does a beautiful job of choosing details to bring the historical period to life. Here, she also deftly delineates the differences between the point of view characters to make us understand what each longs for, and how they feel about their own domain in the manor and their prospects in the world. While this is a historical, it's really a study in character, and a rare chance to peek belowstairs in Edwardian England while watching two young women test their boundaries and their developing friendship while facing ruin if they step too far from the narrow path that their station in life has chosen for them.
December 25, 2013
Lady Charlotte is beautiful, charming, and bored. Lord Andrew seems as though he is a boring choice for her future husband that her mother has chosen for her,before she has even had one season. Most of all, Charlotte has a secret--she wants to be a writer. Longshore provides an interesting look into Victorian aged England, while at times the plot is slow her descriptions and characterization is flawless.
October 30, 2013
Charlotte longs to break free from the manor, while Janie longs to make a home there. Two girls from different worlds live completely separate lives under the same roof, until their paths collide and they find that they have more in common than they ever imagined. Fun, surprising and thoroughly addictive, I loved this story!
January 27, 2014
In books, especially in historical pieces, you want main characters that you can relate to, and I think Manor of Secrets pretty much created two main characters who a lot of girls will be able to relate to in some sort of way. We have Charlotte who is curious about the world and wants to find adventure and love. She wants to be brave and find someplace where she fits in.
We also have Janie who is witty, brave, a dare-taker, and hard-working, but isn’t sure about her direction in life. On one hand, she’s determined to stay with the comforting familiarity of her friends, family, and job, but on the other hand, she knows that change is coming.
While I didn’t see myself as Charlotte or Janie, I saw a lot of common traits in them, and I love it when that happens in books. Despite all the corsets and drudgery, Charlotte and Janie helped bridge the gap from 1911 to 2014 with their realizable personalities.
I also loved the detailed descriptions of the settings, how all the relationships worked out (way too many spoilers to talk about on here), and I thought the ending was cute.
Cynical Cindy Says
To be honest, this book did seem a bit cliched (like the three other Downton Abbey-esque books I’ve read recently). I wouldn’t say there was anything bad about this book, but it wasn’t a standout for me.
I think Manor of Secrets is perfect for when you want to read something light and cute!
3 out of 5 teacups
***This review was originally posted on Alice in Readerland
We also have Janie who is witty, brave, a dare-taker, and hard-working, but isn’t sure about her direction in life. On one hand, she’s determined to stay with the comforting familiarity of her friends, family, and job, but on the other hand, she knows that change is coming.
While I didn’t see myself as Charlotte or Janie, I saw a lot of common traits in them, and I love it when that happens in books. Despite all the corsets and drudgery, Charlotte and Janie helped bridge the gap from 1911 to 2014 with their realizable personalities.
I also loved the detailed descriptions of the settings, how all the relationships worked out (way too many spoilers to talk about on here), and I thought the ending was cute.
Cynical Cindy Says
To be honest, this book did seem a bit cliched (like the three other Downton Abbey-esque books I’ve read recently). I wouldn’t say there was anything bad about this book, but it wasn’t a standout for me.
I think Manor of Secrets is perfect for when you want to read something light and cute!
3 out of 5 teacups
***This review was originally posted on Alice in Readerland
January 17, 2014
In a lot of ways, Manor Of Secrets is a pretty typical story of a well-to-do girl who no longer wants to live the life that she's accustomed to. But it also surprised me, in a TOTALLY good way!
I really liked how Charlotte and Janie became friends and how they both managed to find some adventure and romance. They definitely wanted to change their lives (especially Charlotte), and I liked seeing how they both had a better understanding of the world around them by the end of the book. They really came into their own by the end of the book, and I liked seeing that against the backdrop of a world that is changing while living in the bubble of a world that is resistant to change.
There's definitely a Downtown Abbey feel to the book, so I would definitely recommend it to any Downtown Abbey fan. There's quite the cast of characters, and there is very much a divide between the staff and the family. Everyone has their place, and those roles are challenged a little bit throughout the book.
It's definitely a fun, quick read, and I'm kind of interested in the difference between upstairs servants and downstairs servants. That was definitely one of the more interesting parts of the book, because I don't normally think about the hierarchy of servants.
I felt like Manor Of Secrets was predictable at times, especially with a big revelation coming towards the end of the book, but I found I didn't mind, because Manor Of Secrets was so enjoyable.
Let's Rate It: Manor Of Secrets was a fun read. I didn't mind that it was predictable, and while I didn't love it, it was still interesting and kept me entertained throughout the book. It's a must-read for Downtown Abbey fans! Manor Of Secrets gets 3 stars.
*Manor Of Secrets is from netgalley.com
I really liked how Charlotte and Janie became friends and how they both managed to find some adventure and romance. They definitely wanted to change their lives (especially Charlotte), and I liked seeing how they both had a better understanding of the world around them by the end of the book. They really came into their own by the end of the book, and I liked seeing that against the backdrop of a world that is changing while living in the bubble of a world that is resistant to change.
There's definitely a Downtown Abbey feel to the book, so I would definitely recommend it to any Downtown Abbey fan. There's quite the cast of characters, and there is very much a divide between the staff and the family. Everyone has their place, and those roles are challenged a little bit throughout the book.
It's definitely a fun, quick read, and I'm kind of interested in the difference between upstairs servants and downstairs servants. That was definitely one of the more interesting parts of the book, because I don't normally think about the hierarchy of servants.
I felt like Manor Of Secrets was predictable at times, especially with a big revelation coming towards the end of the book, but I found I didn't mind, because Manor Of Secrets was so enjoyable.
Let's Rate It: Manor Of Secrets was a fun read. I didn't mind that it was predictable, and while I didn't love it, it was still interesting and kept me entertained throughout the book. It's a must-read for Downtown Abbey fans! Manor Of Secrets gets 3 stars.
*Manor Of Secrets is from netgalley.com
January 6, 2019
Upstairs and downstairs drama! A well written coming of age story. Readers who love period dramas like Downton Abbey will definitely want to read this!
January 24, 2014
Lady Charlotte Edmonds is still very young and full of dreams, even if she does know pretty much exactly how her life will turn out. She will be married, take her place in society and slowly become nothing in the eyes of the world, except for an addition to her husband (who she probably won't choose or love of her own accord either). Charlotte wants nothing more than to break free, see the world and fall in love with someone of her decision. Janie Seward is a kitchen maid at the Manor and has known hunger, tragedy and injustice. But she has a fiery spirit and something very important: freedom from societal expectations. All Janie wants though is to have a stable place at The Manor, and somewhere to belong. She's too afraid to even dare to dream of going beyond her current station in life. When Charlotte and Janie collide into each others' daily lives, it's all they can do to hang on for dear life. Secrets long since buried come to light and the girls find out they have more than they ever thought possible in common. Can they help one another rise above the mistakes of the past and into a brave new future together, that they can be excited for?
This book was basically like Downton Abbey for a younger audience, with less emotional and character depths. In Charlotte and Janie we have two of the normal stereotypes of the time period (early 1900s): the privileged lady and the kitchen maid. That said, I did appreciate Charlotte's desperate want for something more and freedom to make her own choices. She was realistically drawn in the sense that Charlotte has no real concept of the way the world works. When she toys with the idea of an affair with a young servant named Laurence, Charlotte doesn't realize that it could end in ruination for her or at the least dismissal for him. And his dismissal (along with the reasons for it) would lead to never being hired in another grand house. Thus, a career and established life have been destroyed by fleeting fancy. Also, the idea that Charlotte was at first appalled by the idea of Lord Andrew Broadhurst, because he was the one who her Mother wanted her to marry, and later actually liked him once she got to know him was wonderful. He wasn't a disposable, one-dimensional boring moron (or evil jerk) like a lot of historical fiction love interests turn out to be. Instead Laurence was a womanizing jerk! It would have been so easy to go in the other direction for the sake of romanticizing and I applaud Longshore for not doing it.
Janie on the other hand, was just as realistic in different ways. She had such an uncertain childhood, that all she wants is to belong at the Manor and have nothing change ever again. The interpolitics and hierarchy of the household servants, upstairs and downstairs, was well played. I especially liked the fact that even with her Mom as the head cook, Janie was still treated as something of an outsider by the other servants, except her best friend Harry, the hall-boy. Janie is up to taking small risks and dares that don't cause any real upheaval in her life, but she doesn't want adventure like Charlotte. She just wants stability, even though she dreams of running her own kitchen. When Charlotte's long-lost Aunt Beatrice comes to The Manor and brings an astounding secret with her, Charlotte will do anything to uncover it. So enlisting the help of Jenny, and causing more trouble than either of them imagined (upstairs and downstairs), the girls set out to find the truth. In the process they become pretty good friends and learn that the grass isn't always greener. I have to say though, the secret of Beatrice's was extremely predictable and I feel only younger readers might be fooled into any modicum of surprise. I have to say that I was expecting the secret to encompass Janie as well (which it did), just not in quite the way it did. With no obvious plans for this to be a series, I am also disappointed in the very open ending. We are left with next to no resolution for Janie or Charlotte. That said, while I overall enjoyed the book, I wouldn't be continuing in the even of another anyhow. I recommend this if you're in need of a early 1900s class study fix, or some lite Downton Abbey to tide you over. Maybe a good intro to fluffy historical fiction for younger teens as well.
VERDICT: 3/5 Stars
*I received this book as part of Around the World ARC Tours, run by the lovely Princess Bookie & also from Scholastic on NetGalley. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book's expected publication date is January 28th, 2014.*
This book was basically like Downton Abbey for a younger audience, with less emotional and character depths. In Charlotte and Janie we have two of the normal stereotypes of the time period (early 1900s): the privileged lady and the kitchen maid. That said, I did appreciate Charlotte's desperate want for something more and freedom to make her own choices. She was realistically drawn in the sense that Charlotte has no real concept of the way the world works. When she toys with the idea of an affair with a young servant named Laurence, Charlotte doesn't realize that it could end in ruination for her or at the least dismissal for him. And his dismissal (along with the reasons for it) would lead to never being hired in another grand house. Thus, a career and established life have been destroyed by fleeting fancy. Also, the idea that Charlotte was at first appalled by the idea of Lord Andrew Broadhurst, because he was the one who her Mother wanted her to marry, and later actually liked him once she got to know him was wonderful. He wasn't a disposable, one-dimensional boring moron (or evil jerk) like a lot of historical fiction love interests turn out to be. Instead Laurence was a womanizing jerk! It would have been so easy to go in the other direction for the sake of romanticizing and I applaud Longshore for not doing it.
Janie on the other hand, was just as realistic in different ways. She had such an uncertain childhood, that all she wants is to belong at the Manor and have nothing change ever again. The interpolitics and hierarchy of the household servants, upstairs and downstairs, was well played. I especially liked the fact that even with her Mom as the head cook, Janie was still treated as something of an outsider by the other servants, except her best friend Harry, the hall-boy. Janie is up to taking small risks and dares that don't cause any real upheaval in her life, but she doesn't want adventure like Charlotte. She just wants stability, even though she dreams of running her own kitchen. When Charlotte's long-lost Aunt Beatrice comes to The Manor and brings an astounding secret with her, Charlotte will do anything to uncover it. So enlisting the help of Jenny, and causing more trouble than either of them imagined (upstairs and downstairs), the girls set out to find the truth. In the process they become pretty good friends and learn that the grass isn't always greener. I have to say though, the secret of Beatrice's was extremely predictable and I feel only younger readers might be fooled into any modicum of surprise. I have to say that I was expecting the secret to encompass Janie as well (which it did), just not in quite the way it did. With no obvious plans for this to be a series, I am also disappointed in the very open ending. We are left with next to no resolution for Janie or Charlotte. That said, while I overall enjoyed the book, I wouldn't be continuing in the even of another anyhow. I recommend this if you're in need of a early 1900s class study fix, or some lite Downton Abbey to tide you over. Maybe a good intro to fluffy historical fiction for younger teens as well.
VERDICT: 3/5 Stars
*I received this book as part of Around the World ARC Tours, run by the lovely Princess Bookie & also from Scholastic on NetGalley. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book's expected publication date is January 28th, 2014.*
March 21, 2020
For a coming of age story, some very hard topics were addressed in this book. It is very much worth the read.
January 30, 2014
Lady Charlotte has not yet had her debut season but she is bored with the life she is expected to lead. She longs for adventure and wants to be an author. Unfortunately her mother has other plans and expects Charlotte to secure a marriage proposal from Lord Andrew Broadhurst before the season begins. Janie is a kitchen maid working for Charlotte's family along with her mother who is the cook. Janie knows her place but she has dreams too. Charlotte and Janie's paths cross when she catches Janie dipping her toes in the lake and Charlotte wishes she could have that kind of freedom. A friendship between a kitchen maid and a lady would be forbidden especially by Charlotte's strict mother, Lady Diane but that doesn't stop Charlotte. Then Charlotte's scandalous aunt arrives throwing everything into turmoil.
Manor of Secrets is a little different from the other teen historical fiction set during this time period. While there is that upstairs/downstairs divide, the focus of the novel is on the growing friendship between Charlotte and Janie. The characters seem more innocent and younger too.
Charlotte's naivete can be frustrating. She behaves like a much younger girl at times and she seems to live in a dreamworld. Charlotte is kind to Janie though she doesn't realize it when she puts Janie in a difficult place by asking her to come upstairs to help her though Janie is a kitchen maid. Charlotte also has unrealistic expectations of romance. Although Charlotte is initially annoying, she grows through her friendship with Janie as the story progresses. She is well meaning and she is lonely having never had her mother's love or pride.
Janie on the other hand is more of a realist. She has experienced hardship and is not keen to do anything that would cost her a job since she has only recently been reunited with her mother. Although Janie has the opportunity for romance she knows that she'd be fired if she pursued it. Janie is a more sympathetic character and even though Charlotte endangers her job, she is still willing to try to help her because she understands Charlotte's loneliness.
Manor of Secrets does not have quite the same gossipy feel as other Edwardian/Downton Abbey inspired fiction. It takes a look at family relationships, dreams, and the roles of women during that time period. Although the secret is easy to guess, it may not detract from the reading experience as the book is more about the characters' relationships and friendships than solving a mystery.
I have heard that this author's Tudor fiction is excellent which may be why Manor of Secrets did not quite meet my expectations. The novel has its flaws but it would be a good pick for those who enjoyed Leila Rasheed's Cinders and Sapphires or T.J. Brown's Summerset Abbey. Those readers looking for a little more soapiness or substance should check out The Luxe series by Anna Godbersen.
Manor of Secrets is a little different from the other teen historical fiction set during this time period. While there is that upstairs/downstairs divide, the focus of the novel is on the growing friendship between Charlotte and Janie. The characters seem more innocent and younger too.
Charlotte's naivete can be frustrating. She behaves like a much younger girl at times and she seems to live in a dreamworld. Charlotte is kind to Janie though she doesn't realize it when she puts Janie in a difficult place by asking her to come upstairs to help her though Janie is a kitchen maid. Charlotte also has unrealistic expectations of romance. Although Charlotte is initially annoying, she grows through her friendship with Janie as the story progresses. She is well meaning and she is lonely having never had her mother's love or pride.
Janie on the other hand is more of a realist. She has experienced hardship and is not keen to do anything that would cost her a job since she has only recently been reunited with her mother. Although Janie has the opportunity for romance she knows that she'd be fired if she pursued it. Janie is a more sympathetic character and even though Charlotte endangers her job, she is still willing to try to help her because she understands Charlotte's loneliness.
Manor of Secrets does not have quite the same gossipy feel as other Edwardian/Downton Abbey inspired fiction. It takes a look at family relationships, dreams, and the roles of women during that time period. Although the secret is easy to guess, it may not detract from the reading experience as the book is more about the characters' relationships and friendships than solving a mystery.
I have heard that this author's Tudor fiction is excellent which may be why Manor of Secrets did not quite meet my expectations. The novel has its flaws but it would be a good pick for those who enjoyed Leila Rasheed's Cinders and Sapphires or T.J. Brown's Summerset Abbey. Those readers looking for a little more soapiness or substance should check out The Luxe series by Anna Godbersen.
December 14, 2015
This was my first sampling of Ms. Longshore's writing and it was very good. I guess from the title I expected some kind of mystery, as that is the kind of story I usually read and enjoy. I got quite a ways into it before it dawned on me there weren't going to be any bodies in the library or garden, or elsewhere....
Nonetheless, this is a very good read, the story of young Lady Charlotte Edmonds and her coming of age in England in the early 20th century. She doesn't want to just "fit in" and have fetes and dinner parties and balls, she wants to have adventures and find out about the world. But she has grown up in the Manor and hardly knows of any of the outside world except what she makes up in her head and then writes down in her stories. These she keeps secret from everyone, knowing they would condemn her as immoral. Still, she longs to write, and to marry for love, not money or position, and she notices the staff and how hard they work to keep the Manor running smoothly for her family and guests. She's neither fish nor fowl, and feeling very alone, when things begin to happen to change her life: before long, her world has changed so dramatically she would never have believed it would be happening.
I am not a fan of straight romance books--I want a murder mystery, or paranormal story, or something to go along with all the gushy stuff. But I was three-quarters of the way through the book before it dawned on me that this was a romance, and a good one. Ms. Longshore is very good at describing
people's emotions, and she does fairly well at portraying life in the early part of this century in an English manor (I wish she had spent more time on the "mothers," though).
I added the tag "novel" to cover a general story that doesn't fall into one of the categories I usually read. This story is just a "slice of life," I suppose. I found myself absorbed in learning about the cast of characters and what happened next, even though there was no murderer or ghost lurking in the wings. At the end of the book I was wishing it would continue to show what happens in the next chapters of Charlotte's life, but I guess that's for another book. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a peek at life in an English manor in the early part of the 20th century (no police or vampire hunters), with a slight emphasis on the staff.
Nonetheless, this is a very good read, the story of young Lady Charlotte Edmonds and her coming of age in England in the early 20th century. She doesn't want to just "fit in" and have fetes and dinner parties and balls, she wants to have adventures and find out about the world. But she has grown up in the Manor and hardly knows of any of the outside world except what she makes up in her head and then writes down in her stories. These she keeps secret from everyone, knowing they would condemn her as immoral. Still, she longs to write, and to marry for love, not money or position, and she notices the staff and how hard they work to keep the Manor running smoothly for her family and guests. She's neither fish nor fowl, and feeling very alone, when things begin to happen to change her life: before long, her world has changed so dramatically she would never have believed it would be happening.
I am not a fan of straight romance books--I want a murder mystery, or paranormal story, or something to go along with all the gushy stuff. But I was three-quarters of the way through the book before it dawned on me that this was a romance, and a good one. Ms. Longshore is very good at describing
people's emotions, and she does fairly well at portraying life in the early part of this century in an English manor (I wish she had spent more time on the "mothers," though).
I added the tag "novel" to cover a general story that doesn't fall into one of the categories I usually read. This story is just a "slice of life," I suppose. I found myself absorbed in learning about the cast of characters and what happened next, even though there was no murderer or ghost lurking in the wings. At the end of the book I was wishing it would continue to show what happens in the next chapters of Charlotte's life, but I guess that's for another book. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a peek at life in an English manor in the early part of the 20th century (no police or vampire hunters), with a slight emphasis on the staff.
February 5, 2014
*A copy was provided by Scholastic for review purposes*
A complex, fast-paced, impossible story is not what you would expect from a historical fiction book. But that was what this one had. I have to say, I was very impressed with it. The setting and situation were very well explained to I got the full picture pretty quick, and man was it dismal. Everyone was unhappy in this book and as I was reading I was trying to figure out how Katherine Longshore was going to make it right. But she staged everything in such a way that when she did make it right, it made perfect sense. The story line and plot was very complex and interesting, and the story moved very fast. There were a lot of different elements to this book, romance, intrigue, drama...you get the idea. I liked the 2 POVs in this book. When having 2 POVs there is the danger of one being less interesting, but in this book they were both equally gripping and it really showed the difference in how Charlotte and Janie lived. The ending was absolutely awesome and definitely gives a new meaning to “fairytale ending”.
The characters in this book were great. Charlotte and Janie were very well developed and you got to know them very well. Charlotte is trapped in her life and she wants to rebel, but can't. She was a pathetic character in the beginning but over the course of the book you can see her grow and become stronger. I really loved Janie's spunk and attitude, and her selflessness. I also really like Henry and Andrew Broadhurst – he's so sweet, though I found it a little convenient that he was so unconventional.
All in all, a fantastic historical fiction book that managed to be gripping and interesting throughout.
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Emily's Crammed Bookshelf
A complex, fast-paced, impossible story is not what you would expect from a historical fiction book. But that was what this one had. I have to say, I was very impressed with it. The setting and situation were very well explained to I got the full picture pretty quick, and man was it dismal. Everyone was unhappy in this book and as I was reading I was trying to figure out how Katherine Longshore was going to make it right. But she staged everything in such a way that when she did make it right, it made perfect sense. The story line and plot was very complex and interesting, and the story moved very fast. There were a lot of different elements to this book, romance, intrigue, drama...you get the idea. I liked the 2 POVs in this book. When having 2 POVs there is the danger of one being less interesting, but in this book they were both equally gripping and it really showed the difference in how Charlotte and Janie lived. The ending was absolutely awesome and definitely gives a new meaning to “fairytale ending”.
The characters in this book were great. Charlotte and Janie were very well developed and you got to know them very well. Charlotte is trapped in her life and she wants to rebel, but can't. She was a pathetic character in the beginning but over the course of the book you can see her grow and become stronger. I really loved Janie's spunk and attitude, and her selflessness. I also really like Henry and Andrew Broadhurst – he's so sweet, though I found it a little convenient that he was so unconventional.
All in all, a fantastic historical fiction book that managed to be gripping and interesting throughout.
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Emily's Crammed Bookshelf
February 5, 2014
Downton Abbey fans, you must read Manor of Secrets.
It's 1911 in the English countryside. Charlotte is tired of stuffy parties and the expectations of her mother regarding marriage to the "right" man. When her eccentric aunt comes for a visit her mother tells Charlotte she need to stay away from her aunt. This compels Charlotte to find out more about her aunt, the black sheep of the family.
She enlists the help of Janie, who works downstairs in the kitchen. They have met briefly before, but of course Janie and Charlotte are not supposed to have any contact with each other. Charlotte wants desperately to befriend Janie, but Janie risks everything by associating with Charlotte.
We have two girls who are rebelling against the norms of the society in which they live. There are interesting romantic developments along the way and a satisfying ending.
This isn't Downton Abbey, but it gives you a little taste of that life to tide you over. Manor of Secrets is a very quick read, and with its brisk pace it is worth the time. It's light and entertaining. The characters are developed enough to get a feel for society, and Charlotte's mother is the epitomizes this time period -- cold and inflexible. It's a simple, predictable story, but the time period and characters sell it.
I loved it. I just want more. I wish someone would write a book series like Downton, where we get in depth characterizations and a multi-layered plot. But in the meantime, pick up Manor of Secrets and enjoy yourself!
It's 1911 in the English countryside. Charlotte is tired of stuffy parties and the expectations of her mother regarding marriage to the "right" man. When her eccentric aunt comes for a visit her mother tells Charlotte she need to stay away from her aunt. This compels Charlotte to find out more about her aunt, the black sheep of the family.
She enlists the help of Janie, who works downstairs in the kitchen. They have met briefly before, but of course Janie and Charlotte are not supposed to have any contact with each other. Charlotte wants desperately to befriend Janie, but Janie risks everything by associating with Charlotte.
We have two girls who are rebelling against the norms of the society in which they live. There are interesting romantic developments along the way and a satisfying ending.
This isn't Downton Abbey, but it gives you a little taste of that life to tide you over. Manor of Secrets is a very quick read, and with its brisk pace it is worth the time. It's light and entertaining. The characters are developed enough to get a feel for society, and Charlotte's mother is the epitomizes this time period -- cold and inflexible. It's a simple, predictable story, but the time period and characters sell it.
I loved it. I just want more. I wish someone would write a book series like Downton, where we get in depth characterizations and a multi-layered plot. But in the meantime, pick up Manor of Secrets and enjoy yourself!
August 14, 2016
Lady Charlotte appears to have it all. The dresses, the jewels, servants, and a beautiful house (The Manor), but she is feeling restless, much like a bird in a cage. She wants adventure, but that is one thing she feels she will never obtain if she continues down the path that her mother wants for her. Her mother, Lady Diane, wants her to marry the boring Lord Andrew, but that's the last thing Charlotte wants. She finds herself gravitating towards the captivating kitchen maid, Janie, and the gorgeous footman, Lawrence. Charlotte knows that this is unconventional and her mother would strongly disapprove, but she can't help it. Downstairs, there is Janie, a kitchen maid, who understands her place, even though she knows she is capable of much, much more. They both start an unusual friendship and things get even more interesting when Charlotte's unorthodox Aunt Beatrice arrives and stirs things up at The Manor. Katherine Longshore's Manor of Secrets will appeal to historical fiction fans and those who need their Downton Abbey fix.
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
December 31, 2013
For anyone who is a fan of Downtown Abbey or is just a fan of the Edwardian era, this is a delightful YA book. I personally found this book to be enjoyable and sweet, I was glad that it was YA appropriate without a bunch of junk or drama in it.
Lady Charlotte Edmonds feels neglected and bored,as the only daughter of a wealthy family she is expected to marry well, but the young man her Mother is pushing at her seems stuffy and boring. What Lady Charlotte longs for is adventure and romance, but will she be brave enough to embrace the opportunities that are thrown at her?
Janie Seward is a practical, hardworking servant who is afraid of change. When it looks like her Mother might leave her to work elsewhere Janie is afraid what other changes might come to pass.
When a long lost relative of Lady Charlotte's shows up, things around the manor are about to change and as Lady Charlotte and Janie befriend each other the find that they have more in common than they ever though possible.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good historical YA read that has interesting characters, a good plot and is clean.
Lady Charlotte Edmonds feels neglected and bored,as the only daughter of a wealthy family she is expected to marry well, but the young man her Mother is pushing at her seems stuffy and boring. What Lady Charlotte longs for is adventure and romance, but will she be brave enough to embrace the opportunities that are thrown at her?
Janie Seward is a practical, hardworking servant who is afraid of change. When it looks like her Mother might leave her to work elsewhere Janie is afraid what other changes might come to pass.
When a long lost relative of Lady Charlotte's shows up, things around the manor are about to change and as Lady Charlotte and Janie befriend each other the find that they have more in common than they ever though possible.
I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good historical YA read that has interesting characters, a good plot and is clean.
October 8, 2014
Largely, I think the flaw in this was that there was too little of a preamble and events occurred with even less of preamble, while much was left to the reader to fill in with their imagination regarding the characters.
And I shan't criticize the obvious similarity to Downton Abbey considering it probably was thought of before the advent of that regarded soap opera and there was only a market afterwards.
*demented puppet nodding*.
Now if there was a more intricate plot aside from: "Two ladies stroll around a manor (too much imagination in the name, incidentally.) Both fall in love, both initially think they're in love, and there's restrictive class rules and a bunch of whinging on the landed woman's part"; if the fabric of The Manor was shown in greater relief, and if the characters were more developed, it probably would be amazing. Be that as it may, the writing style is compelling and readable, and potential may have not been seen through all the way but it was fulfilled with strong writing, creating an individual possessed of independence, naïvetè, and a literary inclination for Charlotte and a likable Janie.
And I shan't criticize the obvious similarity to Downton Abbey considering it probably was thought of before the advent of that regarded soap opera and there was only a market afterwards.
*demented puppet nodding*.
Now if there was a more intricate plot aside from: "Two ladies stroll around a manor (too much imagination in the name, incidentally.) Both fall in love, both initially think they're in love, and there's restrictive class rules and a bunch of whinging on the landed woman's part"; if the fabric of The Manor was shown in greater relief, and if the characters were more developed, it probably would be amazing. Be that as it may, the writing style is compelling and readable, and potential may have not been seen through all the way but it was fulfilled with strong writing, creating an individual possessed of independence, naïvetè, and a literary inclination for Charlotte and a likable Janie.
January 6, 2014
LOVED! This book is, like everything by Longshore, lavishly, lovingly researched and exquisitely detailed historical fiction. What I loved best was that it's about an era I know little about (I don't watch Downton Abbey *ducks* I know I'm sorry!) and I came away from it feeling so deeply and richly entrenched in the world that I started Twitter-begging for a sequel.
Janie knows who she is and is tough as nails, but she refuses to even hope for more, like love or a new, better station in the House. Charlotte is the wealthy Lady in the story, but her life is just as constricted, with little love, honesty, or freedom for her or any of her class.
They both live in delicate, constructed worlds that can't stand for reform, change, or scandal, in a world that's steeped in all of these things around them.
The way the girls relate to each other becomes a complicated, moving friendship, and despite secrets in the manor providing the plot and the drama, their relationship is the total star of the book.
Excellent read!!
Janie knows who she is and is tough as nails, but she refuses to even hope for more, like love or a new, better station in the House. Charlotte is the wealthy Lady in the story, but her life is just as constricted, with little love, honesty, or freedom for her or any of her class.
They both live in delicate, constructed worlds that can't stand for reform, change, or scandal, in a world that's steeped in all of these things around them.
The way the girls relate to each other becomes a complicated, moving friendship, and despite secrets in the manor providing the plot and the drama, their relationship is the total star of the book.
Excellent read!!
January 2, 2014
I do not know about you guys, but I crave Downton Abbey something fierce when it’s not on TV, especially when I need to relax. I love watching the upstairs and downstairs refinement and the microcosms of Great Houses. Manor Of Secrets by Katherine Longshore is quite the departure from her previous Tudor-based fiction. Longshore rises to the challenge of breaking her mold quite admirably. Friends, I am ALL about Manor Of Secrets, especially because it’s like my BBs Sybil and Mary are on the cover and you know, I am a shallow person like that. Overall, Manor Of Secrets is a quick and engaging historical fiction about the intersection between Upstairs and Downstairs, also romance and girl power.
Read the rest of my review here
Note: Review goes live 1/29/14 and there will be a giveaway as well, so be sure to click this on the 29th for your chance to win.
Read the rest of my review here
Note: Review goes live 1/29/14 and there will be a giveaway as well, so be sure to click this on the 29th for your chance to win.
March 19, 2014
I received this ARC from Net Galley in return for an honest review.
I haven't seen Downton Abbey, so there's no way for me to compare it to this story. The premise was appealing, however: Two very different girls, one mansion, lots of juicy secrets. I loved both Janie and Charlotte. I thought they were relatable and very human. I'm a huge Historical Fiction buff, and this story was very light on the history. That isn't necessarily a bad thing! I just personally prefer a bit more detail about the times. That having been said, the lives of the upper class Edwardians versus that of their staff was well fleshed out, even if watching DA would have shown you the same things.
The writing was crisp and clear, moving the story along. The plot was fine -- predictable. Still, the romance and friendships were sweet, and I think this book will appeal to the younger YA crowd quite a bit.
I haven't seen Downton Abbey, so there's no way for me to compare it to this story. The premise was appealing, however: Two very different girls, one mansion, lots of juicy secrets. I loved both Janie and Charlotte. I thought they were relatable and very human. I'm a huge Historical Fiction buff, and this story was very light on the history. That isn't necessarily a bad thing! I just personally prefer a bit more detail about the times. That having been said, the lives of the upper class Edwardians versus that of their staff was well fleshed out, even if watching DA would have shown you the same things.
The writing was crisp and clear, moving the story along. The plot was fine -- predictable. Still, the romance and friendships were sweet, and I think this book will appeal to the younger YA crowd quite a bit.
April 30, 2014
The year is 1911 and privileged daughter of the house Charlotte and stubborn kitchen maid Janie both long for an adventure beyond the Manor. This was a fun, if predictable, historical fiction novel. After a string of gloomy books, it was nice to read something that had a positive outlook. Both Charlotte and Janie, and their love interests, are charming characters and Longshore's writing style keeps the book engaging throughout. Recommended for younger readers of YA historical fiction.
December 14, 2017
Ho letto questo romanzo perché mi ricordava la serie tv Downton Abbey. Romanzo molto scorrevole e brillante. L'ho letto in pochi giorni. La storia mi è piaciuta molto e anche l'ambientazione non è niente male sebbene abbia faticato un pochino a capire tutte le parole. Il lettore ha la sensazione di vivere lui stesso dentro questa tenuta inglese.
June 19, 2016
Ahhhhh! So good! What wonderful characters and delicious scandals. Not to mention, some twists and shockers! Wonderful!
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
September 24, 2014
Okay read, but so overwrought! So glad I was never 16!
March 10, 2015
A little bit like Downton Abby...even the model on the cover reminds me of Sybil.
February 10, 2015
its a good book to read about secreats and what true loves mean this is a book about adventure a
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