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Eve Williams #2
Ravenscliffe
Yorkshire, 1904. On Netherwood Common, Russian émigré Anna Rabinovich shows her dear friend Eve Williams a a Victorian villa, solidly built from local stone. This is Ravenscliffe, and it's the house Anna wants them to live in. It's their house, she says. It was meant to be.
As Anna transforms Ravenscliffe, an attraction grows between her and union man Amos . But when Eve's long-lost brother Silas turns up in the closely-knit mining community of Netherwood, cracks begin to appear in even the strongest friendships.
Meanwhile, at Netherwood Hall, cherished traditions are being undermined by the whims of the feckless heir to the title, Tobias Hoyland , and his American bride Thea Stirling . Below stairs, the loyal servants strive to preserve the noble family's dignity and reputation. But both inside the great house and in the world beyond, values and loyalties are rapidly changing.
As Anna transforms Ravenscliffe, an attraction grows between her and union man Amos . But when Eve's long-lost brother Silas turns up in the closely-knit mining community of Netherwood, cracks begin to appear in even the strongest friendships.
Meanwhile, at Netherwood Hall, cherished traditions are being undermined by the whims of the feckless heir to the title, Tobias Hoyland , and his American bride Thea Stirling . Below stairs, the loyal servants strive to preserve the noble family's dignity and reputation. But both inside the great house and in the world beyond, values and loyalties are rapidly changing.
545 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2012
52 people are currently reading
1003 people want to read
About the author
Jane Sanderson
7 books118 followersJane Sanderson was born in South Yorkshire in 1962. She studied English at Leicester University, then after graduating she became a journalist. After a series of jobs with local newspapers she joined the BBC where she worked as a producer for Radio 4, first on the World at One, and then on Woman's Hour. She lives with her husband, the Independent journalist and author Brian Viner, and their three children in rural Herefordshire.
Jane's first novel, Netherwood, is published by Sphere. She is now working on the sequel, Ravenscliffe, to be published in 2012.
Jane's first novel, Netherwood, is published by Sphere. She is now working on the sequel, Ravenscliffe, to be published in 2012.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 3, 2019
I read the previous novel in this series some time ago, and I thought it was about time that I continued with the trilogy. Unfortunately, this book did not live up to the same standards as the first. I really enjoyed "Netherwood" as it had a grand cast of characters, that were well developed, and there was always something going on. This book, however, was distinctly flat.
There seemed to be lots going on, but not enough to actually develop the plot accordingly. Nothing seemed to be written in enough detail, for me to care about those characters. Many of them, had no real roles. I was quite intrigued about a lesbian affair, which seemed to be going somewhere, then a few chapters down, there was no mention of it. I found that to be most exasperating.
The characters themselves, are pretty dull. There is no solid development, and I cannot say that I favored any of them in particular. I feel there is no compassion here, in regards to the characters, and that makes it difficult for one to make a connection with the story.
There seemed to be lots going on, but not enough to actually develop the plot accordingly. Nothing seemed to be written in enough detail, for me to care about those characters. Many of them, had no real roles. I was quite intrigued about a lesbian affair, which seemed to be going somewhere, then a few chapters down, there was no mention of it. I found that to be most exasperating.
The characters themselves, are pretty dull. There is no solid development, and I cannot say that I favored any of them in particular. I feel there is no compassion here, in regards to the characters, and that makes it difficult for one to make a connection with the story.
February 5, 2014
You can read my review of Netherwood (Eve Williams #1) HERE.
Being as I review a diverse assortment of genres, I feel extremely lucky to have landed three fantastic historical fiction novels in such a short period of time. Ravenscliffe was just as well-written as it's predecessor, Netherwood , but I enjoyed Ravenscliffe so much more. I have also come to the conclusion that the series being titled Eve Williams is a bit misleading, as the story encompassing quite a few people living at Netherwood. There are plenty of characters to love, root for, and even hate, which makes for an interesting story.
My favorite character in Ravenscliffe was still Anna, but I also became very attached to Lord Netherwood and Thea. They provided a level of depth that I wasn't expecting in the novel. (I even got a little choked up.) And Absalom... Oh, Absalom... He was such a nasty creature. I wasn't expecting such an awful antagonist in this sort of novel, but jeez... Anyways, I love that there is such a large cast because it showed me so much about life at the estate and in the mines. Also, if there was just one character followed, how would we be present for someone dropping dead at a most inopportune time with King Bertie visiting?
One of the best things about Ravenscliffe was the in-depth look at how society and life was changing at that point in time. Workers were demanding safer workplaces, universal adult suffrage was on everyone's minds, and the aristocratic rules on marriage were shrinking. I loved seeing how the characters in Ravenscliffe responded to the changes.
The Eve Williams series has been one that I've enjoyed immensely, and I hope that Sanderson will be writing more novels about the lives of the people of Netherwood. If you have any love for historical fiction, I highly recommend giving Netherwood and Ravenscliffe a try.
- 4.5/5 Stars -
To satisfy FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received a copy of the novel from the publisher through TLC Book Tours in exchange for an unbiased review. It has in no way affected the outcome. All expressed opinions are awesome, honest, and courtesy of me.
Being as I review a diverse assortment of genres, I feel extremely lucky to have landed three fantastic historical fiction novels in such a short period of time. Ravenscliffe was just as well-written as it's predecessor, Netherwood , but I enjoyed Ravenscliffe so much more. I have also come to the conclusion that the series being titled Eve Williams is a bit misleading, as the story encompassing quite a few people living at Netherwood. There are plenty of characters to love, root for, and even hate, which makes for an interesting story.
My favorite character in Ravenscliffe was still Anna, but I also became very attached to Lord Netherwood and Thea. They provided a level of depth that I wasn't expecting in the novel. (I even got a little choked up.) And Absalom... Oh, Absalom... He was such a nasty creature. I wasn't expecting such an awful antagonist in this sort of novel, but jeez... Anyways, I love that there is such a large cast because it showed me so much about life at the estate and in the mines. Also, if there was just one character followed, how would we be present for someone dropping dead at a most inopportune time with King Bertie visiting?
One of the best things about Ravenscliffe was the in-depth look at how society and life was changing at that point in time. Workers were demanding safer workplaces, universal adult suffrage was on everyone's minds, and the aristocratic rules on marriage were shrinking. I loved seeing how the characters in Ravenscliffe responded to the changes.
The Eve Williams series has been one that I've enjoyed immensely, and I hope that Sanderson will be writing more novels about the lives of the people of Netherwood. If you have any love for historical fiction, I highly recommend giving Netherwood and Ravenscliffe a try.
- 4.5/5 Stars -
To satisfy FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received a copy of the novel from the publisher through TLC Book Tours in exchange for an unbiased review. It has in no way affected the outcome. All expressed opinions are awesome, honest, and courtesy of me.
January 23, 2014
*Special Content only on my blog, Strange and Random Happenstance during Downton Denial (February 2014)
Eve Williams can hardly credit that she is living the life she is. Mere months before she was on her way to destitution as a widow with three children, but now she's engaged to be married to Daniel MacLeod, the head gardener at Netherwood, has a thriving business, and is moving into the substantially larger Ravenscliffe house on Netherwood Common. Much of these successes are thanks to the indomitable Anna, her best friend and co-conspirator. Though not every life is perfect. Eve's son Seth is rebelling against all the changes that he feels are disrespecting the memory of his father. To Eve's horror, after his twelfth birthday Seth signs on at the colliery that his father Arthur loved, but which killed him nonetheless. She wants Seth to realize that their new station in life has opened up vast opportunities for him as well. He doesn't have to live the life his father lived. Arthur would want a better life for his son, but Anna counsels Eve that Seth has to learn this for himself.
Though the biggest change in Eve's life is the return of her little brother Silas. She hasn't seen him since her wedding to Arthur when he was a scraggly youth and left saying that one day he would send Eve bananas. One day the bananas arrive and a few days later so does Silas. Silas has made an astounding success of his life as a shipping magnate specializing in the importing of bananas to England. He plans on expanding his shipping line out of Bristol and is working on making a luxury hotel in Kingston, Jamaica, and is looking to acquire a coal mine near Netherwood. Silas, unaware of the upheaval in Eve's life, is overly zealous at the success she too has made of her life and starts to encourage her to think bigger, to expand, to grab at every opportunity she is given. Much of these opportunities are connected with the family at Netherwood. After she helps them out of a tight spot when the King comes to visit, Lord Netherwood, following a reassessment of his life, is inclined to give Eve her company outright as a wedding present, relinquishing his share. Yet Lord Netherwood dies before he can commit this to paper. Silas's desire to force the Hoylands hand and get Eve what she deserves creates conflict in Netherwood, with Silas on one side, Anna and Amos on the other, and Eve stuck in the middle. Eve's life might be better, but it is far from perfect.
When the first book in a series is wonderful and perfect I can only imagine the pressure this puts on the author. Jane Sanderson had less time and more expectations with her followup to Netherwood. Thankfully Ravenscliffe exceeded all my expectations. With the expanding of this little microcosm of Edwardian England with new characters and new situations, Jane was able to stay true to the gritty and glamorous world of her first novel, yet infuse it with even more humor and humanity. Throwing us headlong into the upheaval at the great hall with the remodelling and redecorating for the King's arrival made me fall right into this book and not want to leave. The cook dropping dead hours before the first big dinner and having Eve step in was a situation of such absurdity combined with the feeling of her walking a tightrope, led to such suspense I didn't want to go to sleep. In that moment I had such a connection with Eve, I had so much invested, I felt that I was there with her. Jane just has this knack of creating characters that you connect with on so many levels, that you become invested in their lives and just need to know what happens next. Yet, Ravenscliffe isn't just a character piece with historical figures popping up, there are real and relevant issue that ring true to this day, giving the book a depth that most literature today lacks.
In the first book, Netherwood, we see Eve make a huge success out of the ruin of her life. Eve's restaurant becomes not only a place that locals visit, but a destination in Yorkshire for a day out. Her pies are even a hit with the King, who loves food reminiscent of his days in the nursery. Well maybe we should just say he loves food period, and he really loves Eve's puddings and pies. Yet with the arrival of Silas we see someone who has made a real success of his life. He is quite literally a millionaire. Eve and him had the same life, the same start in the world. On that day she married Arthur, Silas set out to make something of himself, and boy did he ever. When compared side by side, Eve's "huge" success in the first book is a pittance when compared to what her brother has achieved. This is the crux of what is a politically charged issue. The situation here is an interesting take on the dynamic of a woman's place in society. The little success Eve has carved out for herself is lauded because she is a woman and any success is amazing in this male dominated society. Yet what could Eve have done if she was male? Would Eve have been as or even more successful then her brother? I think she would have!
Lady Henrietta is the more vocal proponent of women's equality and suffrage in Ravenscliffe. Not only does she run the estate after her father's passing, but she institutes reforms in the collieries that will save lives, as well as becoming political and taking up the banner with the likes of Mrs. Pankhurst! The book shows quite clearly the injustices, but then it shows us that forward thinking women can help effect change. They are just as, if not more capable then the men in their lives, this is especially true of Henry and her inept brother Tobias. This time in history was the true beginning of women demanding the equality they deserved. While it would be another fourteen years from the events of this book till some women got the vote and a further ten years till it was more universal, it was a time of change and this book shows us, more then a dry history textbook, why it was needed and how the change was effected. Is equality for women such a hard concept to grasp even in this day and age? It is a basic human right.
Having the characters that we have known and loved as our friends incorporated into real history and real struggles makes not just their own stories come alive, but makes history come alive. Also, what did I say about historical figures popping up? Well, of course they do, but they aren't what the book is about, they are woven into the plot making it relevant to the story, not just a cameo. The introduction of Mrs. Pankhurst, Churchill, Keir Hardie, and the King, forward the story but also place it in the bigger picture. Jane Sanderson's story coupled with living breathing history makes her plea of suffrage and women's rights more urgent, more real. The only thing I would ask is that she drop the cliche of suffragists all having lesbian leanings... it's ok if it's character driven, just not ok if it's politically driven. Suffragists are all spectrums of women, don't pigeon hole them after writing a book that embraces the trail blazers and the pioneers of equality.
Eve Williams can hardly credit that she is living the life she is. Mere months before she was on her way to destitution as a widow with three children, but now she's engaged to be married to Daniel MacLeod, the head gardener at Netherwood, has a thriving business, and is moving into the substantially larger Ravenscliffe house on Netherwood Common. Much of these successes are thanks to the indomitable Anna, her best friend and co-conspirator. Though not every life is perfect. Eve's son Seth is rebelling against all the changes that he feels are disrespecting the memory of his father. To Eve's horror, after his twelfth birthday Seth signs on at the colliery that his father Arthur loved, but which killed him nonetheless. She wants Seth to realize that their new station in life has opened up vast opportunities for him as well. He doesn't have to live the life his father lived. Arthur would want a better life for his son, but Anna counsels Eve that Seth has to learn this for himself.
Though the biggest change in Eve's life is the return of her little brother Silas. She hasn't seen him since her wedding to Arthur when he was a scraggly youth and left saying that one day he would send Eve bananas. One day the bananas arrive and a few days later so does Silas. Silas has made an astounding success of his life as a shipping magnate specializing in the importing of bananas to England. He plans on expanding his shipping line out of Bristol and is working on making a luxury hotel in Kingston, Jamaica, and is looking to acquire a coal mine near Netherwood. Silas, unaware of the upheaval in Eve's life, is overly zealous at the success she too has made of her life and starts to encourage her to think bigger, to expand, to grab at every opportunity she is given. Much of these opportunities are connected with the family at Netherwood. After she helps them out of a tight spot when the King comes to visit, Lord Netherwood, following a reassessment of his life, is inclined to give Eve her company outright as a wedding present, relinquishing his share. Yet Lord Netherwood dies before he can commit this to paper. Silas's desire to force the Hoylands hand and get Eve what she deserves creates conflict in Netherwood, with Silas on one side, Anna and Amos on the other, and Eve stuck in the middle. Eve's life might be better, but it is far from perfect.
When the first book in a series is wonderful and perfect I can only imagine the pressure this puts on the author. Jane Sanderson had less time and more expectations with her followup to Netherwood. Thankfully Ravenscliffe exceeded all my expectations. With the expanding of this little microcosm of Edwardian England with new characters and new situations, Jane was able to stay true to the gritty and glamorous world of her first novel, yet infuse it with even more humor and humanity. Throwing us headlong into the upheaval at the great hall with the remodelling and redecorating for the King's arrival made me fall right into this book and not want to leave. The cook dropping dead hours before the first big dinner and having Eve step in was a situation of such absurdity combined with the feeling of her walking a tightrope, led to such suspense I didn't want to go to sleep. In that moment I had such a connection with Eve, I had so much invested, I felt that I was there with her. Jane just has this knack of creating characters that you connect with on so many levels, that you become invested in their lives and just need to know what happens next. Yet, Ravenscliffe isn't just a character piece with historical figures popping up, there are real and relevant issue that ring true to this day, giving the book a depth that most literature today lacks.
In the first book, Netherwood, we see Eve make a huge success out of the ruin of her life. Eve's restaurant becomes not only a place that locals visit, but a destination in Yorkshire for a day out. Her pies are even a hit with the King, who loves food reminiscent of his days in the nursery. Well maybe we should just say he loves food period, and he really loves Eve's puddings and pies. Yet with the arrival of Silas we see someone who has made a real success of his life. He is quite literally a millionaire. Eve and him had the same life, the same start in the world. On that day she married Arthur, Silas set out to make something of himself, and boy did he ever. When compared side by side, Eve's "huge" success in the first book is a pittance when compared to what her brother has achieved. This is the crux of what is a politically charged issue. The situation here is an interesting take on the dynamic of a woman's place in society. The little success Eve has carved out for herself is lauded because she is a woman and any success is amazing in this male dominated society. Yet what could Eve have done if she was male? Would Eve have been as or even more successful then her brother? I think she would have!
Lady Henrietta is the more vocal proponent of women's equality and suffrage in Ravenscliffe. Not only does she run the estate after her father's passing, but she institutes reforms in the collieries that will save lives, as well as becoming political and taking up the banner with the likes of Mrs. Pankhurst! The book shows quite clearly the injustices, but then it shows us that forward thinking women can help effect change. They are just as, if not more capable then the men in their lives, this is especially true of Henry and her inept brother Tobias. This time in history was the true beginning of women demanding the equality they deserved. While it would be another fourteen years from the events of this book till some women got the vote and a further ten years till it was more universal, it was a time of change and this book shows us, more then a dry history textbook, why it was needed and how the change was effected. Is equality for women such a hard concept to grasp even in this day and age? It is a basic human right.
Having the characters that we have known and loved as our friends incorporated into real history and real struggles makes not just their own stories come alive, but makes history come alive. Also, what did I say about historical figures popping up? Well, of course they do, but they aren't what the book is about, they are woven into the plot making it relevant to the story, not just a cameo. The introduction of Mrs. Pankhurst, Churchill, Keir Hardie, and the King, forward the story but also place it in the bigger picture. Jane Sanderson's story coupled with living breathing history makes her plea of suffrage and women's rights more urgent, more real. The only thing I would ask is that she drop the cliche of suffragists all having lesbian leanings... it's ok if it's character driven, just not ok if it's politically driven. Suffragists are all spectrums of women, don't pigeon hole them after writing a book that embraces the trail blazers and the pioneers of equality.
October 6, 2012
There are quite a few characters to get your head around in Ravenscliffe, from Eve, Anna and their children to the people of Netherwood Hall, both upstairs and downstairs, plus the other residents of Netherwood. But soon the characters (and their varied stories) were fully formed in my head and I had no problems keeping up. I was so absorbed with the lives of the inhabitants of Netherwood and they were so real and vivid it was like watching a costume drama in my head.
There are many fantastic characters in Ravenscliffe, whether they are good, honest people like Eve or dastardly like bailiff Absolom Blandford. I really liked Anna, who was so independent and strong-minded and the Earl of Netherwood who seemed kind hearted but my favourite character was the Earl's daughter, Henrietta. Henrietta was much more broad-minded than the rest of her family, doing her best to shun what was expected of her as an Earl's daughter and standing by what she believed was right and fair. She is a strong woman, particularly given her position in society at that time.
I haven't read Netherwood, which is set before Ravenscliffe, but it didn't hinder the story and I didn't feel like I was missing any information. However, as Ravenscliffe was such a fantastic read, I would love to go back and read Netherwood to see how it all began. Ravenscliffe is a well-written and thoroughly researched novel that I didn't want to end so I'm hoping there will be a third instalment set in Netherwood from Jane Sanderson as I'm itching to know what happens next.
There are many fantastic characters in Ravenscliffe, whether they are good, honest people like Eve or dastardly like bailiff Absolom Blandford. I really liked Anna, who was so independent and strong-minded and the Earl of Netherwood who seemed kind hearted but my favourite character was the Earl's daughter, Henrietta. Henrietta was much more broad-minded than the rest of her family, doing her best to shun what was expected of her as an Earl's daughter and standing by what she believed was right and fair. She is a strong woman, particularly given her position in society at that time.
I haven't read Netherwood, which is set before Ravenscliffe, but it didn't hinder the story and I didn't feel like I was missing any information. However, as Ravenscliffe was such a fantastic read, I would love to go back and read Netherwood to see how it all began. Ravenscliffe is a well-written and thoroughly researched novel that I didn't want to end so I'm hoping there will be a third instalment set in Netherwood from Jane Sanderson as I'm itching to know what happens next.
March 10, 2016
The second book in this series is as good as the first. Loving this world and cast of characters. Bring on book three.
December 1, 2023
This book was advertised as being “for fans of Downton Abbey,” and that is true in the sense that you get a good taste of Edwardian England, but this book lacks the drama, excitement, and interesting characters of the show.
The main character is a bit of a doormat, and the cast of side characters are equally one dimensional. The plot is nonexistent, and the twists are simultaneously easy to guess while also coming wildly out of left field. I ended the novel only really liking the Earl and Henrietta (the only character with anything approaching growth), and I suppose Daniel MacLeod. Additionally, what was the point of her brother's appearance? The whole book could have happened without him. He seemed to only serve the purpose of sowing discord between Anna and Eve, which was never truly acknowledged or resolved anyway.
Finally, and I will admit this is unreasonably nit-picky, if this is the sequel to the first novel, and is set in 1904, then why is the woman on the cover of the first book wearing a c.1910s outfit? Perhaps this is actually a prequel? I have no clue, and also very little will to find out.
The main character is a bit of a doormat, and the cast of side characters are equally one dimensional. The plot is nonexistent, and the twists are simultaneously easy to guess while also coming wildly out of left field. I ended the novel only really liking the Earl and Henrietta (the only character with anything approaching growth), and I suppose Daniel MacLeod. Additionally, what was the point of her brother's appearance? The whole book could have happened without him. He seemed to only serve the purpose of sowing discord between Anna and Eve, which was never truly acknowledged or resolved anyway.
Finally, and I will admit this is unreasonably nit-picky, if this is the sequel to the first novel, and is set in 1904, then why is the woman on the cover of the first book wearing a c.1910s outfit? Perhaps this is actually a prequel? I have no clue, and also very little will to find out.
May 10, 2019
Well-researched, but kind of boring. However, I didn't realize it was a sequel, and I can say that there is no need to have read the first book in order to know what happens in this one.
September 26, 2013
Another fab book by Jane Sanderson, continuing after Netherwood. The plight of the 'haves' and the 'have nots' continues with Eve and Anna moving to Ravenscliffe with their families. Not only does the book have some great characters, it also has a real sense of time and struggle. I learnt about miner's rights, the burgeoning of women's rights, Eve's successful business and was entertained. I look forward to the installment.
August 27, 2017
Didn't like the first one, didn't feel this one improved either. Out of curiosity (and because I bought this one too) I decided to go ahead and plow through the sequel to 'Netherwood'). I was grudgingly invested enough that I was curious to know what happened, since it was clear from the first book that it was a multi-book story.
It appears to be pretty much the same quality of the first book. It takes up pretty much where the first book left off although we've got some advancement of the plot. Eve from the first story is considering moving to Ravenscliffe, where she can move in and live with her children. The Earl and his wife will soon be hosting King Edward and must prepare the household. It's a time of change, there's romance, people die, etc.
Same problems from the previous book. There's perhaps an interesting story here or with a talented writer it can make these types of tales at least readable. This isn't it. There are some plot twists I didn't quite expect (deaths of some people) plus others I didn't see coming but in retrospect was eye-rolling (lesbian relationship which could have been interesting especially considering the time period but just seemed more of a "soap opera" element than anything else). Unfortunately the author is just not talented enough to make me care about any of the characters or the story.
And in my headdesk-worthy moment, I didn't realize that this was a trilogy, rather than a duology. I'm of two minds about this. I've read so far and I'm still curious since there's apparently more to the story (and some of these plot/character developments lead me to think there's more since there's a book 3) but of course the third is not available at my local library and doesn't seem to be readily available in the US, even on eBay. This trilogy is not a book I'd go out of my way to read so I guess my journey with these characters ends here.
If you're like me you may want to think about whether you want to invest your time/energy/money before reading it. It's a 'Downton Abbey'-eque story and I can see the influences (a Goodreads review asks if the author just switched the characters and storylines a bit) but it does not match the show's quality. Skip.
It appears to be pretty much the same quality of the first book. It takes up pretty much where the first book left off although we've got some advancement of the plot. Eve from the first story is considering moving to Ravenscliffe, where she can move in and live with her children. The Earl and his wife will soon be hosting King Edward and must prepare the household. It's a time of change, there's romance, people die, etc.
Same problems from the previous book. There's perhaps an interesting story here or with a talented writer it can make these types of tales at least readable. This isn't it. There are some plot twists I didn't quite expect (deaths of some people) plus others I didn't see coming but in retrospect was eye-rolling (lesbian relationship which could have been interesting especially considering the time period but just seemed more of a "soap opera" element than anything else). Unfortunately the author is just not talented enough to make me care about any of the characters or the story.
And in my headdesk-worthy moment, I didn't realize that this was a trilogy, rather than a duology. I'm of two minds about this. I've read so far and I'm still curious since there's apparently more to the story (and some of these plot/character developments lead me to think there's more since there's a book 3) but of course the third is not available at my local library and doesn't seem to be readily available in the US, even on eBay. This trilogy is not a book I'd go out of my way to read so I guess my journey with these characters ends here.
If you're like me you may want to think about whether you want to invest your time/energy/money before reading it. It's a 'Downton Abbey'-eque story and I can see the influences (a Goodreads review asks if the author just switched the characters and storylines a bit) but it does not match the show's quality. Skip.
May 11, 2023
This book is the sequel to "Netherwood," and it continues the story of Eve Williams and Anna Rabinovitch, the Russian widow who had come to live with Eve in the first book. Their friendship grows, & their skills help grow their business.
Character development continues for the 2 women & those around them. In the mansion belonging to the Earl of Netherwood, there is greater focus on the servants, which is quite interesting. The older butler & housekeeper have much stricter & loyal attitudes, but the younger servants don't have quite the same beliefs. Times are changing in England in the early 1900s, and this is seen more in the younger people.
Daniel MacLeod, the man who loves Eve Williams, is now the Head Gardner for the Earl, and his relationship with Eve continues.
Eve's eldest child, Seth, continues to grow, in physical strength and in character. He's a boy who wants to be a man, right now! He still struggles since the death of his father, Arthur, in the first book, & he is not happy with his mother being in a relationship with Daniel. However, Seth has close friendships with some of the other men, especially Amos. This grounds him a bit and gives him an outlet for his anger; it also gives him some peace, especially as he works in the garden with Amos, growing vegetables. He takes on the challenge of growing fruits that are not typically grown in this area.
Another family member appears in this book, but there is a bit of an ominous feeling about him; Eve does not sense this, but others do.
Eve has an enemy who works for the Earl, and this adds more suspense to the story.
Anna Rabinovitch has become much more accepted by the people in town; she is loved by so many. She really comes into her own as she works with Eve, giving Eve ideas for her business. They make a good team, Eve being the excellent baker, and Anna is a savvy businesswoman.
I don't want to give much away, so I'll stop at this point. The story grows in this 2nd book, bringing in more characters and developing the ones from the first book. There is unfinished business at the end of the book, and I can't wait to read the third book in the trilogy, "Eden Falls."
Character development continues for the 2 women & those around them. In the mansion belonging to the Earl of Netherwood, there is greater focus on the servants, which is quite interesting. The older butler & housekeeper have much stricter & loyal attitudes, but the younger servants don't have quite the same beliefs. Times are changing in England in the early 1900s, and this is seen more in the younger people.
Daniel MacLeod, the man who loves Eve Williams, is now the Head Gardner for the Earl, and his relationship with Eve continues.
Eve's eldest child, Seth, continues to grow, in physical strength and in character. He's a boy who wants to be a man, right now! He still struggles since the death of his father, Arthur, in the first book, & he is not happy with his mother being in a relationship with Daniel. However, Seth has close friendships with some of the other men, especially Amos. This grounds him a bit and gives him an outlet for his anger; it also gives him some peace, especially as he works in the garden with Amos, growing vegetables. He takes on the challenge of growing fruits that are not typically grown in this area.
Another family member appears in this book, but there is a bit of an ominous feeling about him; Eve does not sense this, but others do.
Eve has an enemy who works for the Earl, and this adds more suspense to the story.
Anna Rabinovitch has become much more accepted by the people in town; she is loved by so many. She really comes into her own as she works with Eve, giving Eve ideas for her business. They make a good team, Eve being the excellent baker, and Anna is a savvy businesswoman.
I don't want to give much away, so I'll stop at this point. The story grows in this 2nd book, bringing in more characters and developing the ones from the first book. There is unfinished business at the end of the book, and I can't wait to read the third book in the trilogy, "Eden Falls."
March 15, 2020
Last night, I finished Ravenscliffe by Jane Sanderson, the sequel to Netherwood, which I very much enjoyed. This second book follows on only a couple of weeks after the end of the first one, with all the previous characters present and correct, and a few new ones to add additional interest. I love the world of these books - it's very immersive in a comforting way, even though there are a fair few tragic events as the story unfolds. As with the first book, it's occasionally jarring when the sedate, old-fashioned, historical style is interrupted by graphic description of events that would not have been included in a book of the period. But it means the story goes in some very unexpected directions and that's no bad thing.
This time around, I particularly liked the portrayal of Seth, who has a lot of feelings about what's going on, but can't always control his reactions. There's a brilliant section where he's making everyone (including himself) by being sulky about something, but he can't find a way out of the mood he's got himself into. It's a very familiar feeling, and very well evoked.
I have the third book in the series already ordered from the library and an very much looking forward to finding out what happens next.
This time around, I particularly liked the portrayal of Seth, who has a lot of feelings about what's going on, but can't always control his reactions. There's a brilliant section where he's making everyone (including himself) by being sulky about something, but he can't find a way out of the mood he's got himself into. It's a very familiar feeling, and very well evoked.
I have the third book in the series already ordered from the library and an very much looking forward to finding out what happens next.
July 14, 2020
This is the second book following on from Netherwood which I read last month. Fortunately, I had bought it but hadn’t read it- I wanted to read it before reading Ravenscliffe. Another book from the library selection bag. This second book made more sense after reading it.
Life is changing for the families, upstairs in Lord Netherwood’s household, his heir Tobias has no intention of taking his position or his responsibilities seriously. His sister, Henrietta, would be an exemplary heir, but she’s female. A couple of major events alter everyone’s plans.
Eve Williams has gained status and the family has moved to a bigger house called Ravenscliffe. Anna, the Russian emigre was the mover in this, and she plays a more substantial part in this story.
Some of the stories engaged me and other parts I found dull. Primarily concerning Amos and politics, although some of the mining information also felt a bit laboured to me.
The standout for me was the emergence and transformation of Anna. I know there is a third book in the series, but I doubt I will read it.
Life is changing for the families, upstairs in Lord Netherwood’s household, his heir Tobias has no intention of taking his position or his responsibilities seriously. His sister, Henrietta, would be an exemplary heir, but she’s female. A couple of major events alter everyone’s plans.
Eve Williams has gained status and the family has moved to a bigger house called Ravenscliffe. Anna, the Russian emigre was the mover in this, and she plays a more substantial part in this story.
Some of the stories engaged me and other parts I found dull. Primarily concerning Amos and politics, although some of the mining information also felt a bit laboured to me.
The standout for me was the emergence and transformation of Anna. I know there is a third book in the series, but I doubt I will read it.
June 3, 2019
I enjoyed this book. It’s a while since I read Netherwood but that didn’t detract from the enjoyment. It isn’t heavy on detail but is well researched enabling readers to “learn” the details through the characters and thoughts of the time. Here we have both upstairs and downstairs dealing with life and everyday mis -haps. The return of Eve’s brother Silus brings with it a new dimension and maybe not all together good one for the locals.
At a time of change this book will take you on a journey. Enjoy and lose yourself in this book, a perfect read for the summer holiday.
At a time of change this book will take you on a journey. Enjoy and lose yourself in this book, a perfect read for the summer holiday.
December 17, 2023
I read book 3 first and then went back to read books 1 and 2. Needless to say, this was a good read. The element of surprise was not there since I had already read book 3. It took way longer to finish because I knew what was going to happen.
I do recommend but start with book 1.
Eve continuing from the success of her restaurant, was talked into renting Ravenscliffe from the Earl of Netherworld by Anna. Eve was reluctant at first because she did not want to be seen as moving up beyond her station.
The Earl gifted Ravenscliffe to Eve as a wedding present but then tragedy happened.
I do recommend but start with book 1.
Eve continuing from the success of her restaurant, was talked into renting Ravenscliffe from the Earl of Netherworld by Anna. Eve was reluctant at first because she did not want to be seen as moving up beyond her station.
The Earl gifted Ravenscliffe to Eve as a wedding present but then tragedy happened.
March 24, 2019
Even better than the first!
I am so happy to have found this author. This is the second book in this series and it is even better than the first. If you enjoy Downton Abby type stories you will like this series.
I am so happy to have found this author. This is the second book in this series and it is even better than the first. If you enjoy Downton Abby type stories you will like this series.
January 10, 2020
Did not realize this was a second book in a trilogy. I hate reading out of sequence ! This is a book in my favorite genre so I persevered . The story takes place in the early 1900's and touches on coal miners working conditions and voting rights. OK read.
June 9, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed this continuation of the Netherwood story.
March 21, 2019
A great sequel to the first one!
March 31, 2019
Well, now I'm hooked and have to read #3. These are well-written, but light, books. Good story about upstairs/downstairs at an English estate.
December 28, 2021
Very good. Recommended to readers of that genre
April 6, 2022
Continuation of Netherwood. And could have a sequel. Gentile story of life in Yorkshire at tutn of century.
November 5, 2023
Light, fun read for Downton Abbey fans.
May 17, 2025
Couldn’t get past chapter 8. Too slow to get into.
September 29, 2016
Ravenscliffe is the standalone sequel to Jane Sanderson’s debut novel Netherwood. The novel has been publicised as ‘perfect for readers of Kate Morton and Rachel Hore, as well as fans of period dramas like Downton Abbey’.
Ravenscliffe opens in Yorkshire in 1904, in a small town named Netherwood. The story begins with a very well written description of the mining town, with its ‘spiteful, unruly gangs of hawthorn’ and its three major collieries. The main protagonists of the novel, Anna Rabinovich and Eve Williams, are introduced almost immediately. The two women are looking at Ravenscliffe, ‘the only property on the common, a large, detached villa, deeper than it was wide’. Anna, a twenty-two-year-old Russian émigré, has set her sights on living in the property, which ‘held the promise of happiness… there was warmth here’. Eve, rather older than Anna and with three young children, is a widower, still secretively mourning her late husband Arthur who was killed in a mining accident.
The second chapter of the novel then focuses upon Clarissa Hoyland and her husband Teddy, otherwise known as Lord and Lady Netherwood. Clarissa is a ‘beautiful, pouting, manipulative’ woman who tends to have tantrums if she is not given her own way immediately. Lord and Lady Netherwood’s kitchen staff are also featured in the narrative. This technique is certainly reminiscent of Downton Abbey and similar period dramas, as the reader is able to see both sides of the same situation through the rich-poor divide.
Many more characters are included throughout the book, both in the main plot and subplots. At first, the sheer number of people who have been introduced into Ravenscliffe seem overwhelming, and it is consequently difficult to make sense of who is who and what relevance they have to the rest of the story. We meet Eve’s partner, Daniel, her three children and her brother Silas, as well as an Amos Sykes, a Jem Arkwright and an Absalom Blandford in just the first few short chapters.
Many period details have been included by the author, ranging from the exact model of the stove in Ravenscliffe’s kitchen to a game called ‘knur’, and from the growing awareness of mining conditions to the responsibilities of head gardeners in the Edwardian era. Changing times in history have been included, along with important real-life figures – Keir Hardie, the King of England and Sylvia Pankhurst, for example – alongside Sanderson’s fictionalised creations. Relationships between the characters simultaneously move forward and dissipate, new alliances are formed and long-lost siblings are found and rejoiced over. The divide between wealth and relative poverty has been touched upon, as has the rather rigid class system which existed at the time.
Sanderson has used a third person perspective throughout, in a style which feels rather informal. The dialogue of many of the characters – in fact, the majority of them – is written in Yorkshire dialect. This works well to an extent, but it does feel rather overdone at times, particularly when entire conversations which fill pages at a time follow the exact same patterns of speech. Sanderson’s scenic descriptions are rich and often vivid, but sadly not much is made of what the characters themselves are like. Descriptions of them seem to have been overlooked somewhat, and they feel a little flat and rather two-dimensional in consequence. We do learn some details about their personalities as the story unfolds, but there is no real creation of a coherent and consistent work. Due to the lack of character descriptions and the similarities in the dialects which many of the characters speak with, it is difficult at times to distinguish between one character and the next.
Ravenscliffe itself is certainly stronger with regard to its storyline than with the characters which it involves. Many different plots converge to make up the overall story, and in this way, Ravenscliffe is rather deftly crafted.
Ravenscliffe is an interesting story on several accounts, and Sanderson’s use of social history is its definite strength. The story is a little confusing at times, merely due to the sheer numbers of characters involved from one chapter to the next. The novel does not break new ground by any means, but for readers of historical fiction, the book is a pleasant one. It does seem rather difficult for the reader to become caught up in the story, however, and no real compassion is built up on behalf of the characters.
Ravenscliffe opens in Yorkshire in 1904, in a small town named Netherwood. The story begins with a very well written description of the mining town, with its ‘spiteful, unruly gangs of hawthorn’ and its three major collieries. The main protagonists of the novel, Anna Rabinovich and Eve Williams, are introduced almost immediately. The two women are looking at Ravenscliffe, ‘the only property on the common, a large, detached villa, deeper than it was wide’. Anna, a twenty-two-year-old Russian émigré, has set her sights on living in the property, which ‘held the promise of happiness… there was warmth here’. Eve, rather older than Anna and with three young children, is a widower, still secretively mourning her late husband Arthur who was killed in a mining accident.
The second chapter of the novel then focuses upon Clarissa Hoyland and her husband Teddy, otherwise known as Lord and Lady Netherwood. Clarissa is a ‘beautiful, pouting, manipulative’ woman who tends to have tantrums if she is not given her own way immediately. Lord and Lady Netherwood’s kitchen staff are also featured in the narrative. This technique is certainly reminiscent of Downton Abbey and similar period dramas, as the reader is able to see both sides of the same situation through the rich-poor divide.
Many more characters are included throughout the book, both in the main plot and subplots. At first, the sheer number of people who have been introduced into Ravenscliffe seem overwhelming, and it is consequently difficult to make sense of who is who and what relevance they have to the rest of the story. We meet Eve’s partner, Daniel, her three children and her brother Silas, as well as an Amos Sykes, a Jem Arkwright and an Absalom Blandford in just the first few short chapters.
Many period details have been included by the author, ranging from the exact model of the stove in Ravenscliffe’s kitchen to a game called ‘knur’, and from the growing awareness of mining conditions to the responsibilities of head gardeners in the Edwardian era. Changing times in history have been included, along with important real-life figures – Keir Hardie, the King of England and Sylvia Pankhurst, for example – alongside Sanderson’s fictionalised creations. Relationships between the characters simultaneously move forward and dissipate, new alliances are formed and long-lost siblings are found and rejoiced over. The divide between wealth and relative poverty has been touched upon, as has the rather rigid class system which existed at the time.
Sanderson has used a third person perspective throughout, in a style which feels rather informal. The dialogue of many of the characters – in fact, the majority of them – is written in Yorkshire dialect. This works well to an extent, but it does feel rather overdone at times, particularly when entire conversations which fill pages at a time follow the exact same patterns of speech. Sanderson’s scenic descriptions are rich and often vivid, but sadly not much is made of what the characters themselves are like. Descriptions of them seem to have been overlooked somewhat, and they feel a little flat and rather two-dimensional in consequence. We do learn some details about their personalities as the story unfolds, but there is no real creation of a coherent and consistent work. Due to the lack of character descriptions and the similarities in the dialects which many of the characters speak with, it is difficult at times to distinguish between one character and the next.
Ravenscliffe itself is certainly stronger with regard to its storyline than with the characters which it involves. Many different plots converge to make up the overall story, and in this way, Ravenscliffe is rather deftly crafted.
Ravenscliffe is an interesting story on several accounts, and Sanderson’s use of social history is its definite strength. The story is a little confusing at times, merely due to the sheer numbers of characters involved from one chapter to the next. The novel does not break new ground by any means, but for readers of historical fiction, the book is a pleasant one. It does seem rather difficult for the reader to become caught up in the story, however, and no real compassion is built up on behalf of the characters.
December 17, 2017
Rather like Downton Abbey but set in a mining community in Yorkshire. It mixes the upper and lower classes. It is the start of the trade unions with all the changes it brings to society.
February 5, 2014
My favorite part of this book was the relationship between Eve and Anna. Their friendship sustained each other through some rough times. I wasn't a fan of Eve's brother, Silas, but I did enjoy his role in helping Eve and Anna secure Ravenscliffe.
Eve's business is booming and she is engaged to be married, which hasn't made her relationship with her son, Seth, any easier. On his twelfth birthday, he signs up to work at the mine since he thinks that's what his father would want him to do. Eve is not happy with his decision but also realizes that he has to figure out on his own if that's really what he wants to do with his life. Her brother Silas has also returned and he is a shady businessman that clashes with her friends.
Anna is as spirited as ever and was determined that they were going to move into Ravenscliffe, a much larger home that they could all spread out in. She's smart and opinionated and I really liked her character. She grows close to Amos, who is now out of the mine and working for the miners' union.
The Hoyland's are preparing for the king's visit so Clarissa is preparing to give her entire home a makeover. That keeps everyone hopping. Henrietta is still interested in her father's business and does all she can to stay involved. Tobias is chasing after Thea, an American, much to his mother's dismay.
I was hoping to get to delve more into the personal lives of the women that worked with Eve. We do learn some of their heartaches and especially one woman's tragedy, but then their stories just fizzle out. It also would have been nice to have learned even more about the personal lives of the employees of Netherwood Hall.
I enjoyed the first part of this book and then, about two-thirds of the way in, tragedy strikes one of the families and at that point, I just skimmed through until the end. The book lost some of its charm for me after that as it became more dramatic and changed direction. It marked the end of an era and, while I enjoyed Netherwood and parts of this book were great, too, this will also be the end for me.
Content: Swearing, including three "f" words. Extramarital relationships (no details). Lesbian relationship (with some detail).
Mel's Shelves
Eve's business is booming and she is engaged to be married, which hasn't made her relationship with her son, Seth, any easier. On his twelfth birthday, he signs up to work at the mine since he thinks that's what his father would want him to do. Eve is not happy with his decision but also realizes that he has to figure out on his own if that's really what he wants to do with his life. Her brother Silas has also returned and he is a shady businessman that clashes with her friends.
Anna is as spirited as ever and was determined that they were going to move into Ravenscliffe, a much larger home that they could all spread out in. She's smart and opinionated and I really liked her character. She grows close to Amos, who is now out of the mine and working for the miners' union.
The Hoyland's are preparing for the king's visit so Clarissa is preparing to give her entire home a makeover. That keeps everyone hopping. Henrietta is still interested in her father's business and does all she can to stay involved. Tobias is chasing after Thea, an American, much to his mother's dismay.
I was hoping to get to delve more into the personal lives of the women that worked with Eve. We do learn some of their heartaches and especially one woman's tragedy, but then their stories just fizzle out. It also would have been nice to have learned even more about the personal lives of the employees of Netherwood Hall.
I enjoyed the first part of this book and then, about two-thirds of the way in, tragedy strikes one of the families and at that point, I just skimmed through until the end. The book lost some of its charm for me after that as it became more dramatic and changed direction. It marked the end of an era and, while I enjoyed Netherwood and parts of this book were great, too, this will also be the end for me.
Content: Swearing, including three "f" words. Extramarital relationships (no details). Lesbian relationship (with some detail).
Mel's Shelves
May 9, 2014
Ravenscliffe is the follow-up novel to Netherwood and is set in Yorkshire in 1904. I loved Netherwood and was excited to read the sequel right away. Eve Williams has created a successful business with her great cooking and enterprising nature. Her friend, Russian immigrant Anna, has helped her to pursue her dreams. Anna takes them a step farther by finding her a perfect Victorian Villa in the common, Ravenscliffe. Eve’s returning brother Silas helps her to procure the Villa and Anna sets to work making it into a beautiful home.
Eve and Daniel move forward with their wedding even though Seth is not pleased with his mother’s remarriage. At Netherwood, the family prepares for a visit from the King and the heir to the estate finds himself in love with a flamboyant American woman. When an unexpected tragedy strikes, both the family at the hall as well as the Williams family are thrown into turmoil.
I loved Ravenscliffe. Sanderson has written a great saga with many fascinating characters with interesting stories during a great time period. One aspect I particularly enjoy is the role of the women in this particular time period. I love Lady Henrietta. She is the oldest of the Earl of Netherwood’s children and the most capable of running the estate, but as a daughter she cannot inherit. Instead the lazy Tobias is the heir. This makes Henrietta start to think about the rights of women. I also enjoyed the stories of the coal mines at Netherwood and Amos Sykes fight for the rights and safety of the miners. I was sad when the book ended, but then saw online that here is a third book in the series. Please publish it in the United States!
Overall Ravenscliffe is a wonderful historical fiction saga and I highly recommend it.
Book Source: Review Copy from William Morrow – Thanks!
This review was originally published on my blog at: http://www.lauragerold.blogspot.com/2...
Eve and Daniel move forward with their wedding even though Seth is not pleased with his mother’s remarriage. At Netherwood, the family prepares for a visit from the King and the heir to the estate finds himself in love with a flamboyant American woman. When an unexpected tragedy strikes, both the family at the hall as well as the Williams family are thrown into turmoil.
I loved Ravenscliffe. Sanderson has written a great saga with many fascinating characters with interesting stories during a great time period. One aspect I particularly enjoy is the role of the women in this particular time period. I love Lady Henrietta. She is the oldest of the Earl of Netherwood’s children and the most capable of running the estate, but as a daughter she cannot inherit. Instead the lazy Tobias is the heir. This makes Henrietta start to think about the rights of women. I also enjoyed the stories of the coal mines at Netherwood and Amos Sykes fight for the rights and safety of the miners. I was sad when the book ended, but then saw online that here is a third book in the series. Please publish it in the United States!
Overall Ravenscliffe is a wonderful historical fiction saga and I highly recommend it.
Book Source: Review Copy from William Morrow – Thanks!
This review was originally published on my blog at: http://www.lauragerold.blogspot.com/2...
August 11, 2014
I won a copy of Ravenscliffe from a firstreads giveaway.
The novel follows Eve Williams, and her friend Anna Rabinovich through (I think) a little over a year in their Yorkshire town. I didn't realize until I was about halfway in that this was actually the second book in a series about Eve Williams. There are clearly plans for a third book, as well.
This book is set in Edwardian Yorkshire--mining country and also follows the Earl of Netherwood and his family, as well as their servants. It was billed as a good read for fans of Downton Abbey, and, although I haven't watched much Downton, I can see why. The aristocrats, their servants, and the working class people all have their stories, although I felt Eve was by and large the focus. Sometimes the book felt like it was trying to go too in-depth with too many of the characters, which added a LOT of pages (over 500 total). I don't mind a long book, but sometimes it felt like a passage could have been edited out. I kept thinking "now the book is over", only to find more pages.
In any case, the characters are fun to read and varied. Jane Sanderson adds little details to round-out even the most tertiary of characters, like the officiant at a wedding who is thankful he was named "Frederick" instead of "Fred" because of the gravitas it lends him.
I am usually pretty judgmental of historical fiction. I get annoyed when authors insert blatantly modern ideology into characters from another time because I find it unrealistic and jarring. The beauty of picking this time-period is that it was a time when modern progressive causes (such as women's rights, and the organization of labor) were picking up. So when Lady Henrietta becomes a suffragette, and advocates for safety reforms in her father's mines, it rings true for the period the novel is set in.
The novel follows Eve Williams, and her friend Anna Rabinovich through (I think) a little over a year in their Yorkshire town. I didn't realize until I was about halfway in that this was actually the second book in a series about Eve Williams. There are clearly plans for a third book, as well.
This book is set in Edwardian Yorkshire--mining country and also follows the Earl of Netherwood and his family, as well as their servants. It was billed as a good read for fans of Downton Abbey, and, although I haven't watched much Downton, I can see why. The aristocrats, their servants, and the working class people all have their stories, although I felt Eve was by and large the focus. Sometimes the book felt like it was trying to go too in-depth with too many of the characters, which added a LOT of pages (over 500 total). I don't mind a long book, but sometimes it felt like a passage could have been edited out. I kept thinking "now the book is over", only to find more pages.
In any case, the characters are fun to read and varied. Jane Sanderson adds little details to round-out even the most tertiary of characters, like the officiant at a wedding who is thankful he was named "Frederick" instead of "Fred" because of the gravitas it lends him.
I am usually pretty judgmental of historical fiction. I get annoyed when authors insert blatantly modern ideology into characters from another time because I find it unrealistic and jarring. The beauty of picking this time-period is that it was a time when modern progressive causes (such as women's rights, and the organization of labor) were picking up. So when Lady Henrietta becomes a suffragette, and advocates for safety reforms in her father's mines, it rings true for the period the novel is set in.
January 31, 2014
Eve's business venture is doing wonderfully with the new cafe up and running and orders as far as London. Even the king has taken notice and plans a trip to visit Netherwood, insistent on having Eve's Yorkshire puddings while he's there. Of course this means everyone at the Netherwood estate is all in a tizzy as Clarissa plans renovations and redecorating in honor of the visit. Meanwhile, Tobias has his heart set on a woman mom is none to pleased about. The earl approves, though, so it's just a matter of time. And Eve has her own new relationship going with an engagement to boot. Telling her children, Seth in particular, is somewhat problematic. Nonetheless, things are going well especially when Eve's brother Silas arrives.
I have to say, this was a very welcome return to Netherwood and the characters introduced in the book of the same name!
These characters captured my heart in Sanderson's first outing and returning to them to continue their story was great fun! Even the Hoylands themselves started to win me over, though Eve, Anna, and Amos continue to charm me the most.
As with NETHERWOOD, Sanderson spends a good amount of time detailing the daily life and setting of the story. Her attention to really is impeccable, offering the reader what feels like a true glimpse of the time in which the story is set. (Since I myself am not an expert on this time period, I assume it's a true glimpse! It feels like it either way.) Anyone who is a fan of period pieces and family dramas is sure to love Sanderson's series.
I have to say, this was a very welcome return to Netherwood and the characters introduced in the book of the same name!
These characters captured my heart in Sanderson's first outing and returning to them to continue their story was great fun! Even the Hoylands themselves started to win me over, though Eve, Anna, and Amos continue to charm me the most.
As with NETHERWOOD, Sanderson spends a good amount of time detailing the daily life and setting of the story. Her attention to really is impeccable, offering the reader what feels like a true glimpse of the time in which the story is set. (Since I myself am not an expert on this time period, I assume it's a true glimpse! It feels like it either way.) Anyone who is a fan of period pieces and family dramas is sure to love Sanderson's series.
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