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Secrets of the Manor #1
Beth's Story, 1914
Find out what secrets lurk within the walls of Chatswood Manor in this in this first book of a historical fiction mystery series that explores a family’s secrets throughout generations.
The Chatswood family tree has many branches—and even more secrets. It’s the summer of 1914 in England, and Beth Etheridge, great-granddaughter of the original Elizabeth Chatswood, can’t wait for her twelfth birthday to arrive. That’s when she’ll receive her family’s heirloom “Elizabeth” one half of a heart encrusted with beautiful sapphires. (The companion necklace, encrusted with rubies, will be given to Beth’s American cousin and pen pal, Kate, later in the series.) But when family from France visits Chatswood Manor for the occasion and another family heirloom goes missing, Beth finds herself on a quest to clear the name of her lady’s maid and friend, Shannon. Her search for answers leads her to a hidden diary with clues to a much larger family mystery that dates back generations. What secrets are hidden away in Chatswood Manor?
The Chatswood family tree has many branches—and even more secrets. It’s the summer of 1914 in England, and Beth Etheridge, great-granddaughter of the original Elizabeth Chatswood, can’t wait for her twelfth birthday to arrive. That’s when she’ll receive her family’s heirloom “Elizabeth” one half of a heart encrusted with beautiful sapphires. (The companion necklace, encrusted with rubies, will be given to Beth’s American cousin and pen pal, Kate, later in the series.) But when family from France visits Chatswood Manor for the occasion and another family heirloom goes missing, Beth finds herself on a quest to clear the name of her lady’s maid and friend, Shannon. Her search for answers leads her to a hidden diary with clues to a much larger family mystery that dates back generations. What secrets are hidden away in Chatswood Manor?
148 pages, Hardcover
First published June 24, 2014
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290 people want to read
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February 5, 2015
*Special Content only on my blog, Strange and Random Happenstance during Downton Denial (February 2015)
Beth is so excited as her twelfth birthday approaches that nothing can deter her, not even losing her lady's maid hours before her relatives arrive. She just views it as a chance to promote her favorite maid, Shannon, to a higher standing in the house. The French side of the family, the Trufant's, are arriving for a grand family tradition that will happen at Beth's birthday celebration. Since Beth's great-grandmother, Elizabeth, and her twin sister, Katherine, received connected necklaces on their twelfth birthday it has been a tradition on the twelfth birthday of the eldest daughter, and their namesake, to pass the necklace on to the new generation. So the day is fast approaching when Beth will get the Elizabeth necklace! But a theft in the house throws Beth's world upside down. Her maid Shannon is accused of stealing her cousin's, Gabrielle Trufant's, own heirloom necklace! Beth knows Shannon is innocent, but she must prove it while celebrating her birthday yet before Shannon is sent away without a reference.
I am not a reading snob. This means that as long as there's a good story to read I'll read it. Doesn't matter if the book is YA, Middle Grade, Fiction, Nonfiction, if it's worth reading, I'll read it. Sure, this seems like I'm trying to justify my dislike of this book, but what I'm really trying to do is qualify that my issues with Beth's Story aren't based on the books intended audience and being written for young readers, but it the writing itself. When I first saw this book on the shelves I was overjoyed, Downton Abbey for kids; because everyone knows you need to convert them when they're young. But, oh dear, this book just didn't work. I'm glad to say that Whitby didn't fall victim to the most deplorable of writing crimes, talking down to your readers. There is no surer way of alienating your audience then this. She did simplify concepts a little, but again, that wasn't the main flaw. In fact there isn't just one thing I can point to and go there, there is where you went wrong, because in truth, she went wrong in several places. Though there was a tipping point, and it was a tiara.
What I will call the "cheese factor" is where me and this book parted ways. If I didn't know better I would say that these books were written to market a brand of dolls from the late eighties early nineties that had special collectible lockets and keys for you to "find out the secret." Eight year old me would have loved the dolls, the books, like the American Girl books of my youth, would have languished on the shelves untouched as I created my own stories and adventures. Improving literature is the bane of those who love to read. Because there's nothing I hate more then "teaching moments." A good book will teach you things just in the telling of the story, a bad book will teach you things by pointing it out with big arrows going "here's some history you should know" or "here's some life lessons that are to be learned." Spare me now.
The whole "every secret leads to another secrets of the manor" oh, head thunk into keyboard, no. Is this some bad soap opera I have landed in? Like Edwardian Blue's Clues? Because I can't think of any child going, oh wow, time to read all six books and find out the final secret, the ultimate "secret of the manor!" Forth grade me is rolling my eyes. Yes, forth grade me was rather sarcastic. I've always read more mysteries then most, so my deductive skills are right up there. Even if I was still a forth grader the signaling with giant semaphore flags of the "clues" to solve the "mysteries" would have had me writing a rant on the obviousness of what was happening. Oh, and even without reading all six books I can tell you the "big secret," the twins switched places all those years ago doing a Victorian Parent Trap, most likely because of love, aw, gag me now.
Yet there's a chance I could have overlooked this cheese. If I'm honest, I probably couldn't have, but let's pretend there was a chance. If I could have overlooked said cheese, well, the inaccuracies would have driven me round the bend. OK, so I know that an eight year old probably isn't going to know all the proper etiquette for Edwardian society, but that doesn't mean the author gets to be lazy. Whitby doesn't get to pick and choose which societal conventions she will and won't abide by just for the convenience of her story, because then everyone would be wearing tiaras!
Yes, the tiara was the straw that broke the camels back. Sure, I was grinding my teeth when the house party arrived and the servants came in the front door, not, you know, the servant's entrance. When Beth's maid added embellishments to her uniform, I held my tongue. The servants talking out of turn with their employers, OK, deep breath, I can keep going. YOU JUST PUT A TIARA ON A TWELVE YEAR OLD! Tiara's are ONLY for married women. Ask ANYONE who has ever watched a miniseries or read a book, hell, go watch the PBS special about The Manners of Downton Abbey where there is a whole section about no tiaras till marriage! This is unforgivable and made me hate this book.
But, if I'm honest, all this, everything could have been overcome if I liked the characters. So many flaws can be forgiven for the love of a well crafted heroine. Beth is not a well crafted heroine. She's too earnest and too full of spunk and decidedly modern versus British. Her reverence for her great-grandmother is unbelievable. I mean, really, what other twelve year old is mooning over a picture of their ancestor and color coding all their clothes to their dead relatives likes not their own? Once again I was taken in by a beautiful cover. Shouldn't I know by now that a good illustrator doesn't a good book make? OK, time for me to shake it off and move on. Stupid tiara.
Beth is so excited as her twelfth birthday approaches that nothing can deter her, not even losing her lady's maid hours before her relatives arrive. She just views it as a chance to promote her favorite maid, Shannon, to a higher standing in the house. The French side of the family, the Trufant's, are arriving for a grand family tradition that will happen at Beth's birthday celebration. Since Beth's great-grandmother, Elizabeth, and her twin sister, Katherine, received connected necklaces on their twelfth birthday it has been a tradition on the twelfth birthday of the eldest daughter, and their namesake, to pass the necklace on to the new generation. So the day is fast approaching when Beth will get the Elizabeth necklace! But a theft in the house throws Beth's world upside down. Her maid Shannon is accused of stealing her cousin's, Gabrielle Trufant's, own heirloom necklace! Beth knows Shannon is innocent, but she must prove it while celebrating her birthday yet before Shannon is sent away without a reference.
I am not a reading snob. This means that as long as there's a good story to read I'll read it. Doesn't matter if the book is YA, Middle Grade, Fiction, Nonfiction, if it's worth reading, I'll read it. Sure, this seems like I'm trying to justify my dislike of this book, but what I'm really trying to do is qualify that my issues with Beth's Story aren't based on the books intended audience and being written for young readers, but it the writing itself. When I first saw this book on the shelves I was overjoyed, Downton Abbey for kids; because everyone knows you need to convert them when they're young. But, oh dear, this book just didn't work. I'm glad to say that Whitby didn't fall victim to the most deplorable of writing crimes, talking down to your readers. There is no surer way of alienating your audience then this. She did simplify concepts a little, but again, that wasn't the main flaw. In fact there isn't just one thing I can point to and go there, there is where you went wrong, because in truth, she went wrong in several places. Though there was a tipping point, and it was a tiara.
What I will call the "cheese factor" is where me and this book parted ways. If I didn't know better I would say that these books were written to market a brand of dolls from the late eighties early nineties that had special collectible lockets and keys for you to "find out the secret." Eight year old me would have loved the dolls, the books, like the American Girl books of my youth, would have languished on the shelves untouched as I created my own stories and adventures. Improving literature is the bane of those who love to read. Because there's nothing I hate more then "teaching moments." A good book will teach you things just in the telling of the story, a bad book will teach you things by pointing it out with big arrows going "here's some history you should know" or "here's some life lessons that are to be learned." Spare me now.
The whole "every secret leads to another secrets of the manor" oh, head thunk into keyboard, no. Is this some bad soap opera I have landed in? Like Edwardian Blue's Clues? Because I can't think of any child going, oh wow, time to read all six books and find out the final secret, the ultimate "secret of the manor!" Forth grade me is rolling my eyes. Yes, forth grade me was rather sarcastic. I've always read more mysteries then most, so my deductive skills are right up there. Even if I was still a forth grader the signaling with giant semaphore flags of the "clues" to solve the "mysteries" would have had me writing a rant on the obviousness of what was happening. Oh, and even without reading all six books I can tell you the "big secret," the twins switched places all those years ago doing a Victorian Parent Trap, most likely because of love, aw, gag me now.
Yet there's a chance I could have overlooked this cheese. If I'm honest, I probably couldn't have, but let's pretend there was a chance. If I could have overlooked said cheese, well, the inaccuracies would have driven me round the bend. OK, so I know that an eight year old probably isn't going to know all the proper etiquette for Edwardian society, but that doesn't mean the author gets to be lazy. Whitby doesn't get to pick and choose which societal conventions she will and won't abide by just for the convenience of her story, because then everyone would be wearing tiaras!
Yes, the tiara was the straw that broke the camels back. Sure, I was grinding my teeth when the house party arrived and the servants came in the front door, not, you know, the servant's entrance. When Beth's maid added embellishments to her uniform, I held my tongue. The servants talking out of turn with their employers, OK, deep breath, I can keep going. YOU JUST PUT A TIARA ON A TWELVE YEAR OLD! Tiara's are ONLY for married women. Ask ANYONE who has ever watched a miniseries or read a book, hell, go watch the PBS special about The Manners of Downton Abbey where there is a whole section about no tiaras till marriage! This is unforgivable and made me hate this book.
But, if I'm honest, all this, everything could have been overcome if I liked the characters. So many flaws can be forgiven for the love of a well crafted heroine. Beth is not a well crafted heroine. She's too earnest and too full of spunk and decidedly modern versus British. Her reverence for her great-grandmother is unbelievable. I mean, really, what other twelve year old is mooning over a picture of their ancestor and color coding all their clothes to their dead relatives likes not their own? Once again I was taken in by a beautiful cover. Shouldn't I know by now that a good illustrator doesn't a good book make? OK, time for me to shake it off and move on. Stupid tiara.
April 6, 2019
I read this with my 9 year old, and it was fun to watch her react to what was going on in the book. She became invested in the main character’s story, and we were both glad to have the sequel on hand so we could continue the story!
December 28, 2016
-POTENTIAL SPOILERS-
I thought this book was super cute! Yeah it's sorta an American Girl rip-off except with a British girl thrown into the mix, and yes the mystery was super easy to solve and yes it's written pretty simply, but I didn't mind it! I liked the main character and how she takes it upon herself to solve the mystery so her beloved lady's maid doesn't get dismissed. I liked how this family stretches on for several books, each connected to each other, and the cover art on both this one and the sequel are just gorgeous!
The historical inaccuracies didn't bother me too much, and in fact, much like in A Mad, Wicked Folly I barely noticed them.
All in all, this was a super cute childrens' historical fiction novel!
I thought this book was super cute! Yeah it's sorta an American Girl rip-off except with a British girl thrown into the mix, and yes the mystery was super easy to solve and yes it's written pretty simply, but I didn't mind it! I liked the main character and how she takes it upon herself to solve the mystery so her beloved lady's maid doesn't get dismissed. I liked how this family stretches on for several books, each connected to each other, and the cover art on both this one and the sequel are just gorgeous!
The historical inaccuracies didn't bother me too much, and in fact, much like in A Mad, Wicked Folly I barely noticed them.
All in all, this was a super cute childrens' historical fiction novel!
February 22, 2021
I saw this at the library and was attracted to the cover. It gave me Dear America vibes. While this series isn't quite as cool (at least based on the first book), it still seems like a nice, girl-led historical series.
This first book seems to lay out a lot of ground work that will be built on in later books, such as the two main branches of the family, the twins Elizabeth and Katherine who are the matrons of those lines, and some of their traditions (such as the sapphire and ruby necklaces handed down to the eldest girl at age 12). In this book, Beth anticipates receiving the Elizabeth necklace at her big birthday ball only for a mystery to distract from it.
The mystery was very easy to guess, at least for an adult reader. And I feel like I already know the mystery behind mysteries only hinted at so far. But I don't think that took much away, and in any case I didn't read this to be challenged.
Some important themes are touched on such as class differences and the difficult spot of employed people who have to do what they are asked. I plan to continue with the next book at some point.
This first book seems to lay out a lot of ground work that will be built on in later books, such as the two main branches of the family, the twins Elizabeth and Katherine who are the matrons of those lines, and some of their traditions (such as the sapphire and ruby necklaces handed down to the eldest girl at age 12). In this book, Beth anticipates receiving the Elizabeth necklace at her big birthday ball only for a mystery to distract from it.
The mystery was very easy to guess, at least for an adult reader. And I feel like I already know the mystery behind mysteries only hinted at so far. But I don't think that took much away, and in any case I didn't read this to be challenged.
Some important themes are touched on such as class differences and the difficult spot of employed people who have to do what they are asked. I plan to continue with the next book at some point.
May 16, 2021
Overall, I liked this book, it was girl led and it was an easy read (no hard topics). This is not my type of book but I had to rate it fairly. There wasn't anything wrong with this story, it was somewhat interesting and it caught my attention but I just wasn't as attached to this book has I am to the Hunger Games, Harry Potter, The City of Ember and Percy Jackson... It wasn't horribly written and boring or anything so it was a pretty good book.
I just want people to know that this book is perfect for most 7-8 year olds. Even though the plot isn't very deep some 12 year olds might like it. All the 1 2 & 3 star reviews will have some bad things to say about this book but it is mostly because people didn't connect to the book. I didn't really connect to it but I wan't to write my reviews fairly so other people won't think this is a horrible book.
In hindsight I could have probably spent my time reading a better book but I'm not a reading snob, if a book has an ok story line I won't leave it on the shelf to get dusty.
I know some girls my age that would love this book and call it their favourite but I also know some girls my age that would not be interested in it. This book is directed towards girls 8-10 but I think some 10 year olds (me) will think this plot isn't very deep.
I just want people to know that this book is perfect for most 7-8 year olds. Even though the plot isn't very deep some 12 year olds might like it. All the 1 2 & 3 star reviews will have some bad things to say about this book but it is mostly because people didn't connect to the book. I didn't really connect to it but I wan't to write my reviews fairly so other people won't think this is a horrible book.
In hindsight I could have probably spent my time reading a better book but I'm not a reading snob, if a book has an ok story line I won't leave it on the shelf to get dusty.
I know some girls my age that would love this book and call it their favourite but I also know some girls my age that would not be interested in it. This book is directed towards girls 8-10 but I think some 10 year olds (me) will think this plot isn't very deep.
July 24, 2017
My rating is four stars considering it is a children's book, not as a book to be loved by adults. I read this book to see if my daughter could read it. The story is nice; it's a simple mystery. The setting is like Downton Abbey for kids. The main character is a good character for kids; she isn't bratty.
The book would best be read starting in 3rd or 4th grade for the child reader to understand the vocabulary and to pick up on clues about motives. And, when letters and journal pages are included in the chapter, they are written in cursive font, which my kids don't learn until 4th grade. Note to self: Recommend this series to daughter after doing cursive workbook and in 4th grade.
The book would best be read starting in 3rd or 4th grade for the child reader to understand the vocabulary and to pick up on clues about motives. And, when letters and journal pages are included in the chapter, they are written in cursive font, which my kids don't learn until 4th grade. Note to self: Recommend this series to daughter after doing cursive workbook and in 4th grade.
March 30, 2018
Enjoyed it and I will read some more of the series, but some things about it seemed strange. One thing mostly was, unless I missed something, it seemed like the day it was supposed to be her birthday and I expected the party, it suddenly changed to it being the next day, anyone think that? Maybe a younger person wouldn't notice.
I was slightly annoyed at how much the word "birthday party" was used.
It was worth reading though, love the historical setting and characters.
I was slightly annoyed at how much the word "birthday party" was used.
It was worth reading though, love the historical setting and characters.
March 5, 2019
I read this to see how a writer deals with the past in an early chapter book. I enjoyed the protagonist and the mini mystery but I really didn't get a sense of 1914. In addition, nothing was really at stake for the protagonist. It was uncomfortable too for a 12-year-old girl to be dressed up for her relatives.
The author didn't have as much sympathy for the upper class as Downtown Abby does. :)
The author didn't have as much sympathy for the upper class as Downtown Abby does. :)
June 7, 2017
gr 4-6
1914 England. When Beth's lady's maid, Shannon, is wrongly accused of stealing, Beth is determined to prove Shannon's innocence. In her search, Beth discovers that the Manor may be hiding more than one secret.
1914 England. When Beth's lady's maid, Shannon, is wrongly accused of stealing, Beth is determined to prove Shannon's innocence. In her search, Beth discovers that the Manor may be hiding more than one secret.
July 29, 2020
NoveList Plus Info:
Genre: Historical Mysteries
Time Period: 1910s
Character: Likable
Storyline: Plot-driven
Tone: Suspenseful
Subjects: diaries, family secrets, girl cousins, heirlooms, necklaces, preteen girls
April 2, 2021
This book is great for younger ages (probably 7-8). They would enjoy the book. For 11 year olds, the plot isn't very deep. Pretty simple. It does leave you wondering what will happen next, and is well-written.
May 27, 2022
I love reading this book is so fun and a Thrilling adventure away to Escape our reality in the world to go into and enjoy that's is around the Corner of life I own two of Secrets Of The Manor.🌺 A Book I would Read Over and Over Again Until The End Of Thee Earth Ya Bowl.
December 11, 2022
This was really cool, narration-wise. But plot wise, I felt as if it was a bit... obvious.. Nonetheless, I'm still looking forward to reading the next book!
My rating: 4 stars.
3 stars for the narration.
1 star fore everything else.
Book 325!
My rating: 4 stars.
3 stars for the narration.
1 star fore everything else.
Book 325!
January 24, 2024
Best author! If you want to have a meaningful experience with your daughter, these books are truly incredible! Weaving, history, suspense, proper times, but with liberal female empowerment. A must read!
January 6, 2019
This book keeps you in suspense and experience the feeling of living in the castle in 1914, England.
April 4, 2019
Wonderful chapter book for early readers. Clean, heroine with morals and respect for others, not scary, well written.
September 10, 2019
Cute story of a stolen locket and the young woman who defends her maid against the accusation.
November 14, 2019
Such a thrilling adventure through the walls of Chatswood Manor.
November 28, 2019
Great book, and series... I really want to figure out the "secret" that this book hypes up, but it is very boring and has a disappointing storyline. Anyway, it was pretty okay.
December 24, 2020
wanted to read this but found it very slow going after a while.
January 21, 2022
An favorite of mine that git me into reading and it's also one of my comfort series
February 24, 2022
It was really good!
June 3, 2022
One of my favorite childhood series, I was obsessed with the history and mystery
December 27, 2023
Simple, innocent mystery without intense suspense for more sensitive readers.
August 6, 2024
Fun read aloud!
June 25, 2021
It is a good book, in the first time a little boring but then you can find it very interesting!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2016
Title: Secrets of the Manor: Beth’s Story, 1914
Author: Adele Whitby
Illustrator: Jamie Zollars
Genre: Historical fiction
Theme(s): Fiction, Secrecy, Heirlooms, England, Family
Opening line/sentence: “’Bridget, where are you?’ I exclaimed.”
Brief Book Summary: Lady Beth of Chastwood Manor is excited to receive her birthday present from her great-grandmother. Then, a scandal breaks leaving the story to become a mystery leaving Beth to be detective. As it unfolds with her grandmother and cousins involved, the story keeps readers engaged and flipping to the next page.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, May 1, 2014 (Vol. 82, No. 9))
When her 16-year-old lady's maid is unjustly accused of stealing a piece of jewelry, a highborn English girl defies the strict hierarchical rules of her household by investigating both above- and below-stairs to find the true culprit.Lady Beth is about to turn 12. To mark this auspicious occasion, a grand party has been planned at Chatswood Manor, her beloved 15-year-old cousin Gabby is coming to visit, and she comes into the Elizabeth necklace, a family heirloom. But all does not go smoothly for the high-spirited, fair-minded and good-hearted heroine. Cousin Gabby, who now insists on the more mature moniker of Gabrielle, has become a demanding spoiled snob and is clearly no longer interested in young Beth. And of course, adult readers and young historians know something the characters are blind to: World War I is about to erupt, marking the beginning of the end of the era of the great English houses. The mystery itself is rather mild, yet Whitby generates a goodly amount of page-turning suspense. Despite the fact that Beth comes across an old diary that, coupled with hints from addled Great-Grandmother Cecily, is the setup for more mysterious secrets to come, the book provides solid closure and ends on a gratifying note. Entertaining mystery lite set in a Downton Abbey world. 2014, Simon Spotlight, 160 pp., $16.99. Category: Historical mystery. Ages 8 to 12. © 2014 Kirkus Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
(PUBLISHER: Simon Spotlight (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2014.
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: The Horn Book Guide Online. This first installment in a Downton Abbey/Nancy Drew mash-up series features spunky British heiress Lady Beth, twelve, and her successful efforts to prove that her loyal Irish maid, Shannon, has been unjustly accused of stealing a necklace. The lightweight costume drama is hampered by stilted dialogue, a clichéd plot, and stereotypical characters. The promise of a sequel is assured.
Response to Two Professional Reviews: Interestingly enough, both reviewers remark that they mystery is established but not intensified. The reviewers make note that the setting can be related to the “Downton Abbey” era. The characters are recognized by the reviewers but not marked for standing out. The difference should also be noted that one review notes the ending to the book as “solid closure” and the other notes it as “a sequel is assured”
Evaluation of Literary Elements: This book allows each character to express their feelings and emotions through dialogue, which is important in an elementary classroom. It also introduces students to figurative language such as similes and metaphors. Being that it is told in first person, children will learn to see the plot from the main character’s point of view.
Consideration of Instructional Application: This book would be ideal for an independent read. It can be an introduction to the pre WWI era, however it is still fiction and therefore does not acknowledge the direct facts of this. A teacher may guide her students, who are comfortable with chapter books, to tackle this one for a historical fiction challenge.
Author: Adele Whitby
Illustrator: Jamie Zollars
Genre: Historical fiction
Theme(s): Fiction, Secrecy, Heirlooms, England, Family
Opening line/sentence: “’Bridget, where are you?’ I exclaimed.”
Brief Book Summary: Lady Beth of Chastwood Manor is excited to receive her birthday present from her great-grandmother. Then, a scandal breaks leaving the story to become a mystery leaving Beth to be detective. As it unfolds with her grandmother and cousins involved, the story keeps readers engaged and flipping to the next page.
Professional Recommendation/Review #1: Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, May 1, 2014 (Vol. 82, No. 9))
When her 16-year-old lady's maid is unjustly accused of stealing a piece of jewelry, a highborn English girl defies the strict hierarchical rules of her household by investigating both above- and below-stairs to find the true culprit.Lady Beth is about to turn 12. To mark this auspicious occasion, a grand party has been planned at Chatswood Manor, her beloved 15-year-old cousin Gabby is coming to visit, and she comes into the Elizabeth necklace, a family heirloom. But all does not go smoothly for the high-spirited, fair-minded and good-hearted heroine. Cousin Gabby, who now insists on the more mature moniker of Gabrielle, has become a demanding spoiled snob and is clearly no longer interested in young Beth. And of course, adult readers and young historians know something the characters are blind to: World War I is about to erupt, marking the beginning of the end of the era of the great English houses. The mystery itself is rather mild, yet Whitby generates a goodly amount of page-turning suspense. Despite the fact that Beth comes across an old diary that, coupled with hints from addled Great-Grandmother Cecily, is the setup for more mysterious secrets to come, the book provides solid closure and ends on a gratifying note. Entertaining mystery lite set in a Downton Abbey world. 2014, Simon Spotlight, 160 pp., $16.99. Category: Historical mystery. Ages 8 to 12. © 2014 Kirkus Reviews/VNU eMedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
(PUBLISHER: Simon Spotlight (New York:), PUBLISHED: 2014.
Professional Recommendation/Review #2: The Horn Book Guide Online. This first installment in a Downton Abbey/Nancy Drew mash-up series features spunky British heiress Lady Beth, twelve, and her successful efforts to prove that her loyal Irish maid, Shannon, has been unjustly accused of stealing a necklace. The lightweight costume drama is hampered by stilted dialogue, a clichéd plot, and stereotypical characters. The promise of a sequel is assured.
Response to Two Professional Reviews: Interestingly enough, both reviewers remark that they mystery is established but not intensified. The reviewers make note that the setting can be related to the “Downton Abbey” era. The characters are recognized by the reviewers but not marked for standing out. The difference should also be noted that one review notes the ending to the book as “solid closure” and the other notes it as “a sequel is assured”
Evaluation of Literary Elements: This book allows each character to express their feelings and emotions through dialogue, which is important in an elementary classroom. It also introduces students to figurative language such as similes and metaphors. Being that it is told in first person, children will learn to see the plot from the main character’s point of view.
Consideration of Instructional Application: This book would be ideal for an independent read. It can be an introduction to the pre WWI era, however it is still fiction and therefore does not acknowledge the direct facts of this. A teacher may guide her students, who are comfortable with chapter books, to tackle this one for a historical fiction challenge.
August 30, 2014
Originally published on my blog,
ReadLove
.
It’s June 1914, and fast approaching is Beth’s twelfth birthday when, according to family custom, a treasured heirloom will pass to her called the “Elizabeth necklace”. Her cousin Kate also sits in great expectation for her own banner day later in the summer when the “Katherine necklace”, the other half of the joint legacy jewels, will be bestowed upon her. The two necklaces together form a heart. And though Kate and Beth have never met, the two bosom cousins are avid pen pals. (We get to see one of Beth’s letters to Kate, though we aren’t privy to the reply.)
Beth is flustered in anticipation as she sits in her chamber within the family’s English manor house awaiting relatives who are coming to help celebrate her special day. Only there’s a small snag: her lady’s maid isn’t answering her rings for help because, as it turns out, she’s left her post. Beth will be devastated if she’s not ready in time to greet her cousins from France!
So begins this first book in a new historical series that follows branches of the Chatswood family, both in England and in America, through several generations. When mysterious things start happening in the household, Beth investigates and finds that more awaits her than she imagined. There are family secrets!
Beth’s tale begins just months before The Great War breaks out and makes English Manor Houses a thing of the past. This volume is a nice start to a series that promises to be a charming addition to the historical fiction genre for the tween crowd. Though there are other similar avenues for girls to explore, like the American Girl® books or Scholastic’s Dear America titles, Secrets of the Manor links American girls to their extended English family to show what life was like on both sides of the Atlantic. In this case, we are regaled with a lovely Downton Abbey mystery drama for younger eyes.
Lovely cover illustrations by Jaime Zollars will surely grab the attention of young girls. And it won’t hurt that the pretty necklace might remind them of their own special friendship tokens (of less value). For all her status and privilege, Beth is not haughty, but is kind and likeable. Although the mystery is straight-forward and easily solved, author Whitby’s pen produces enough narrative tension and suspense to keep young readers motivated to follow the clues to novel’s end. Fear not, dreaders of cliff-hangers! Despite being the first of two companion novels set in 1914, and though it dovetails nicely into book two, Beth’s Story takes its tale to a satisfying conclusion. However, I’d recommend having book two on hand when your little princess finishes!
Verdict: 4 of 5 hearts. Delightful Downton Abbey Era Mystery For Tweens.Family secrets come to light in this charming period piece filled with historical detail. As they roam the halls of Chatswood Manor with Beth, girls of today will discover how very different their world is from the daily life of this girl from 1914.
It’s June 1914, and fast approaching is Beth’s twelfth birthday when, according to family custom, a treasured heirloom will pass to her called the “Elizabeth necklace”. Her cousin Kate also sits in great expectation for her own banner day later in the summer when the “Katherine necklace”, the other half of the joint legacy jewels, will be bestowed upon her. The two necklaces together form a heart. And though Kate and Beth have never met, the two bosom cousins are avid pen pals. (We get to see one of Beth’s letters to Kate, though we aren’t privy to the reply.)
Beth is flustered in anticipation as she sits in her chamber within the family’s English manor house awaiting relatives who are coming to help celebrate her special day. Only there’s a small snag: her lady’s maid isn’t answering her rings for help because, as it turns out, she’s left her post. Beth will be devastated if she’s not ready in time to greet her cousins from France!
So begins this first book in a new historical series that follows branches of the Chatswood family, both in England and in America, through several generations. When mysterious things start happening in the household, Beth investigates and finds that more awaits her than she imagined. There are family secrets!
Beth’s tale begins just months before The Great War breaks out and makes English Manor Houses a thing of the past. This volume is a nice start to a series that promises to be a charming addition to the historical fiction genre for the tween crowd. Though there are other similar avenues for girls to explore, like the American Girl® books or Scholastic’s Dear America titles, Secrets of the Manor links American girls to their extended English family to show what life was like on both sides of the Atlantic. In this case, we are regaled with a lovely Downton Abbey mystery drama for younger eyes.
Lovely cover illustrations by Jaime Zollars will surely grab the attention of young girls. And it won’t hurt that the pretty necklace might remind them of their own special friendship tokens (of less value). For all her status and privilege, Beth is not haughty, but is kind and likeable. Although the mystery is straight-forward and easily solved, author Whitby’s pen produces enough narrative tension and suspense to keep young readers motivated to follow the clues to novel’s end. Fear not, dreaders of cliff-hangers! Despite being the first of two companion novels set in 1914, and though it dovetails nicely into book two, Beth’s Story takes its tale to a satisfying conclusion. However, I’d recommend having book two on hand when your little princess finishes!
Verdict: 4 of 5 hearts. Delightful Downton Abbey Era Mystery For Tweens.Family secrets come to light in this charming period piece filled with historical detail. As they roam the halls of Chatswood Manor with Beth, girls of today will discover how very different their world is from the daily life of this girl from 1914.
December 19, 2016
Beth is dismayed when her lady's maid must leave Chatswood Manor to care for an ailing family member, but she is pleased to be able to choose her friend Shannon, a young servant girl near her own age, to take her place. Shannon assumes her new responsibilities just when relatives from France arrive to stay at the manor. When a young visiting cousin loses an important family heirloom, accusations fly every which way, and Shannon is ultimately accused as a thief. Determined to prove her friend's innocence, Beth breaks her parents' rules about fraternizing with the help, and sets out to discover who really stole the missing jewelry.
There are so few historical fiction novels that focus on the day-to-day lives of kids from other time periods. So often historical novels are filled with high drama, lots of tragedy, and major historical events found in the pages of textbooks and encyclopedias. Beth's Story, 1914 is therefore a refreshing departure from the norm, and a promising start to a new series. While the historical details of life 100 years ago provide an interesting backdrop for the mystery, this story is more about friendship, seeking the truth, and the importance of family than it is about commenting on historical occurrences. There is some talk of war, as World War I looms on the horizon, but Beth's main focus is on her upcoming 12th birthday party and on the heirloom necklace inherited from her great-grandmother which she will finally be allowed to wear. While kids will inevitably need to learn about World War I, the birthday party story is more engaging than dry historical information and provides a relatable gateway into the time period.
The next book in this series will focus on Kate, Beth's American cousin, and future installments will focus on their relatives Katherine and Elizabeth living in 1848 and Betsy and Kay living in 1934. In Spring 2015, a new story arc will begin featuring Claire and Camille living in 1910. The fact that the series jumps around in time to tell the story of a single family makes it a great read-alike for Ann M. Martin's Family Tree books. The writing in this book is also on a similar level and of similar quality to other paperback series such as Charmed Life by Lisa Schroeder, The Baby-sitters Club by Ann M. Martin, and Sleuth or Dare by Kim Harrington. Recommended to readers in grades 3 to 6.
There are so few historical fiction novels that focus on the day-to-day lives of kids from other time periods. So often historical novels are filled with high drama, lots of tragedy, and major historical events found in the pages of textbooks and encyclopedias. Beth's Story, 1914 is therefore a refreshing departure from the norm, and a promising start to a new series. While the historical details of life 100 years ago provide an interesting backdrop for the mystery, this story is more about friendship, seeking the truth, and the importance of family than it is about commenting on historical occurrences. There is some talk of war, as World War I looms on the horizon, but Beth's main focus is on her upcoming 12th birthday party and on the heirloom necklace inherited from her great-grandmother which she will finally be allowed to wear. While kids will inevitably need to learn about World War I, the birthday party story is more engaging than dry historical information and provides a relatable gateway into the time period.
The next book in this series will focus on Kate, Beth's American cousin, and future installments will focus on their relatives Katherine and Elizabeth living in 1848 and Betsy and Kay living in 1934. In Spring 2015, a new story arc will begin featuring Claire and Camille living in 1910. The fact that the series jumps around in time to tell the story of a single family makes it a great read-alike for Ann M. Martin's Family Tree books. The writing in this book is also on a similar level and of similar quality to other paperback series such as Charmed Life by Lisa Schroeder, The Baby-sitters Club by Ann M. Martin, and Sleuth or Dare by Kim Harrington. Recommended to readers in grades 3 to 6.
September 3, 2015
I came across this series and thought Downtown Abbey for young girls! Beth is turning twelve in the year 1914, and as tradition in her family she will be given the family heirloom; the Elizabeth necklace. Her great-grandmother, Elizabeth and her twin, Katherine, were given necklaces on their twelfth birthday. Every Elizabeth in the family receives the necklace on her twelfth birthday. (Liz, Eliza and now Beth) Beth is excited to be given this piece of jewelry and eager to spend her birthday with her older cousin, Gabrielle. Her maid has left and Beth pleads to be given Shannon as her new lady’s maid. Shannon, a sixteen year old girl, with no training as a lady’s maid becomes her servant.
Everything is going exactly the way Beth wants it, until Gabrielle arrives and is far from the warm, loving companion she had been in the past. In fact, she is incredibly arrogant to Beth and Shannon. She whines about her own locket that has been passed down through generations, wanting a fancier one. Then her locket goes missing and all fingers point to Shannon. Beth knows she is innocent, but can she prove it?
This is a short, entertaining mystery for young girls. It is a great way to expose readers to life 100 years ago for well to do English families, especially if mom and dad and jumping on the Downtown Abbey bandwagon. There is a lot of arrogance and snobbery in this book. Katherine’s descendants are living in America, and Kate, Bet’s cousin is also about to turn twelve. Gabrielle repeatedly brags about attending her party after Beth’s. Gabrielle is the perfect brat; although, Beth is a bit of a brat herself. She has never had to do anything for herself, and I found myself getting irritated with her. Shannon is a sweet maid, but could grow a bit of a backbone. Then again maids were treated as second rate citizens.
The book has lots of mystery also sets up for the rest of the series. Beth’s great-grandmother Cecily is a great character at 80+ years old; she remembers the first Katherine and Elizabeth. There seems to be a bit of a scandal brewing, but the family dismisses Cecily as a crazy old woman. But is she?
Everything is going exactly the way Beth wants it, until Gabrielle arrives and is far from the warm, loving companion she had been in the past. In fact, she is incredibly arrogant to Beth and Shannon. She whines about her own locket that has been passed down through generations, wanting a fancier one. Then her locket goes missing and all fingers point to Shannon. Beth knows she is innocent, but can she prove it?
This is a short, entertaining mystery for young girls. It is a great way to expose readers to life 100 years ago for well to do English families, especially if mom and dad and jumping on the Downtown Abbey bandwagon. There is a lot of arrogance and snobbery in this book. Katherine’s descendants are living in America, and Kate, Bet’s cousin is also about to turn twelve. Gabrielle repeatedly brags about attending her party after Beth’s. Gabrielle is the perfect brat; although, Beth is a bit of a brat herself. She has never had to do anything for herself, and I found myself getting irritated with her. Shannon is a sweet maid, but could grow a bit of a backbone. Then again maids were treated as second rate citizens.
The book has lots of mystery also sets up for the rest of the series. Beth’s great-grandmother Cecily is a great character at 80+ years old; she remembers the first Katherine and Elizabeth. There seems to be a bit of a scandal brewing, but the family dismisses Cecily as a crazy old woman. But is she?
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