The Mandeville Secret: An absolutely gripping and emotional historical page-turner

A Mandeville Mystery #2

by Callie Langridge

From the bestselling author of A Time to Change , comes the beautiful, moving and gripping next instalment in the beloved Mandeville Mysteries series. The past is like a shadow, sometimes invisible but always there… England, 1924. Nell Potter pens successful romantic mysteries as the enigmatic Margot Evangeline, but off the page, things aren’t quite so wonderful. Nell, tormented by a terrible ordeal in her past, can’t settle, and her writing is coming less and less easily. When she receives an invitation to Hill House, a stunning Georgian manor deep in the countryside, it feels like a chance to escape her troubles. Hill House is as beautiful as Nell could have ever imagined but, it turns out, not exactly restful. It seems the manor has its own secrets – a series of mysterious thefts have been plaguing the Mandeville family, and there’s even whispers of a spirit walking its halls. Will the newly arrived police inspector – the handsome and taciturn James Painter – be able to discover the truth, or is he in over his head? Meanwhile, Nell can’t help but think this might be good material for her next book… that is, until the eerie visions begin to become rather personal. Has her past finally come knocking? And what could the tragic history of Louisa Arnold and the esteemed Mandeville family have to do with it? A tale of one woman’s destiny within a house full of secrets. A mesmerizing, magical and beautiful tale of mystery and romance, from the bestselling author of A Time to Change . Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Christina Courtenay and Lucinda Riley. What readers are saying about this “Loved this book. Didn’t want it to end . Cried at the end.” Online reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Took my breath away in a way I never thought was possible … filled my arms with copious amounts of goosebumps, whilst also pricking my eyes with unshed tears… It broke my heart, then it fixed it again .” Online reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I just couldn’t get enough of it… I really didn’t want this story to end. I was so wrapped up in it … An emotional rollercoaster of a read … Right from the start the author captivated me heart and soul and I loved everything about it . An absolute must read!” Online reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A really powerful and heart-wrenching novel about love and self-sacrifice… It is beautifully written and for a few hours I got lost in its pages … Now it is ended and I feel bereft… a most beautiful and fabulous novel .” Online reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genres: Mystery, Time Travel, Historical Mystery, Fiction, Historical Fiction

422 pages, Paperback

First published September 18, 2023

About the author

Callie has a passion for history and the world and lives of those who came before us. Through her writing, she explores social history, complicated relationships, and how the extraordinary happens every day.

She can often be found roaming the halls of historic properties and has a particular fascination with venturing into the hidden parts of houses …

Callie lives in London along with an ever-growing collection of antique curiosities, more books than any person really needs, and a blanket waiting for a Jack Russell terrier to occupy soon!

Twitter: @CLangridgeWrite
Facebook: Callie Langridge facebook.com/CallieLangridgeAuthor/
Insta: Callie Langridge instagram.com/callielangridge/

Reviews

[Pam Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Paging suckers for an English country house mystery! The Mandeville series may be just the fix you're jonesing for. First up, is it just me or does the name strike a subtle chord for Daphne du Maurier fans with: "Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley..." etched on our brains?

A decade has passed since Louisa Arnold altered the doomed trajectory of Hill House, home of the Mandevilles, in author Callie Langridge's excellent Book #1 A Time to Change.   Book #2 brings us to 1924, introducing a new main character, romance author Nell Potter. It's now a very different England from the idyllic 'Edwardian afternoon' of the pre-war decade. WWI changed everything: to paraphrase Sir Edward Grey, the lamps went all over Europe and would not be lit again.

As the Brits take bitter stock of all that was lost, Nell seems to channel the national angst as she rides the train to Hill House, reflecting: "The leaves were full of their summer colour and plumpness, so unlike the barren wasteland inside her head." She has a deadline looming and her creative juices have dried up. She is hoping to find inspiration from a change of surroundings, having accepted an invitation to the family pile from former Cambridge roommate Charlotte Mandeville.

Nell soon detects an unease in the idyllic environment inhabited by the genteel Mandeville clan. Early in the story, a menacing intruder alarms a maid in the house and then Nell encounters him on a walk. A WSPU suffrage activist, she has learned self-defense and doesn't back down. The man is scared off by the family chauffeur and they call the police. Nell meets Inspector Painter, who plays a role in events to come, as does Paul Kenmore, a battle-scarred American trauma surgeon who forms a romantic connection with Charlotte Mandeville.

As the story progresses, the threat becomes more immediate and Nell begins to understand there's a greater purpose in her presence at Hill House than formulating her next pot boiler romance. She must deal with her unresolved past trauma before she can embrace a possible future.

Ms. Langridge captures the wistful nostalgia and simmering anger of the period poignantly at times, and the shifting political tides are interwoven through the story in threads that speak to class tensions. Charlotte's brother Edward describes her as enamored of the new Labor government and "something of a socialist these days." They are at odds over his dealings with self-made real estate developer Andrew 'Wilco' Wilkinson. I felt there was some social justice barrow-pushing by the author in this element - it contributed little to the plot except an opportunity for Nell to admire Charlotte's compassion for the under-privileged and signal her own virtuous instincts.

Although it was an engaging human drama, overall the story lacked the compelling well-centered plot of Book #1. I found myself meandering along, feeling as rudderless as Nell, lacking something to connect the various strands more coherently. The elements of spiritualism and time-slip seemed piecemeal. I was lost at times, trying to recall who is who in a sometimes overly busy mish mash of secondary characters.

The ending was a satisfying and touching resolution and although I felt the story as whole never quite jelled, I appreciated that Louisa was brought back to complete the circle and make sense of some threads that needed tying up.  The Mandeville Secret is a respectable but not powerful follow up to a first book that set up some very high expectations. It fell short, for me at 3.25 stars. For readers unfamiliar with the star-ratings at Regency Chronicle, 3 plus stars is a book we consider very good and recommend to readers.

We thank the author, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for an advance copy. Cover image courtesy of Storm Publishing © 2023.  Review by Pam Baker© 2023 The Regency Chronicle.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an intriguing sequel in the Mandeville house series. Wrapped in the past this unique house has seen a lot of history and unveiled many mysteries. It also has been instrumental in bringing about many changes through the people it chooses. What makes them special? They have lost hope and need it restored so the house goes about using/guiding/restoring lost and wounded hearts. Through directing fascinating characters, sometimes the events of one timeline may be altered. But, of course, as in all stories such as this, there must be a villain with a vengeance to stand in the way of happy endings. In The Mandeville Secret, someone from the past tries to take peace and happiness away from the Mandeville family and their friends.

This story is set in England, 1924, with a new heroine: the successful romantic mystery novelist Nell Potter. She has a vivacious personality and determined heart and keeps the plot lively. Invited by her college friend to Hill House after experiencing an ordeal, she hopes a change of scenery will get her mind off her troubles and inspire her to write her next novel. Although once she arrives, all sorts of strange things begin to happen. Are their ghosts in the walls and who is the intruder on the premises? Her inquisitive writer’s mind comes in useful in trying to help solve a Mandeville mystery. Of course, with the help of a handsome police inspector they uncover the truth.

I enjoyed seeing some of the past cast of Book one re-appear (and meeting new ones). Very clever how the author wove the former characters into the 1924 timeline. It is easy to understand Nell’s reaction when she sees many things she cannot understand and wonders if she is hallucinating. How many of us could believe in a house and grounds that allows a person to time travel (outside Doctor Who with his phone booth or even the Narnia kids through a wardrobe and a painting, etc)? Of course, there are rules and not everyone can go back and forth in the Mandeville series—only those the house chooses. Making the house a very special vehicle that has a heart and soul. This concept is seriously creative and adds wonderful magic, mystery and surrealism.

There is a lot to keep you interested in this second outing and never a dull moment. I enjoyed the plot surprises, the character-reveals, the lovely scenic descriptions, nuggets of wisdom and atmospheric wonder. If you enjoyed the first book of the series, you will enjoy this one, too. This is a lively tale of one woman who touches numerous lives within this impressive house that harbours many secrets: some of which can never be spoken. And this manor has quite an effect on everyone who is drawn into its mystique as reflected in Nell’s thoughts! It was as ‘though the moment she had stepped foot across the threshold of Hill House, a key had turned insider her, as if someone was trying to gain entrance to the room she kept firmly padlocked and bolted.’

This story stirs the wonder in your soul and sparks the spirit of adventure. Wouldn’t you want to be one of Hill House’s special visitors? I would! I truly recommend this exciting original time travel treasure.
5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.

[Daniela♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

Another great historical fiction read, with a little less time travel and much more mystery! The story wasn’t as strong as the first book, and I did find parts of the story quite confusing and hard to follow.

We’re in 1924 this time with our main character Nell Potter who is a writer, and travels to Hill House by invitation from her friend Charlotte Mandeville - she hopes to gain some inspiration and write her next book! But the house has lots of secrets, there’s mysterious thefts happening and spirits walking the halls!

I enjoyed getting to see the characters from the first book again, especially getting to see Louisa who was able to time travel back to help the family.

But who the hell was Mr Townley aka Thomas Mandeville?? I thought he died in the first book during the war - and yet here he is still alive and clearly living closely with Elliot. Is he real or a ghost? SO CONFUSING. I wish the author covered more on this rather than rushing past it!

[Elizabeth McFarland · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing sequel to A Time to Change. This is a truly fascinating and unique series. I loved everything about this book.

The Mandeville Secret introduces us to Nell Potter. It's 1924, and she's on her way to the countryside to work on her latest novel and visit her dear friend Charlotte Mandeville. She's hoping Hill House will serve as an inspiration and help with her writer's block, but Hill House has its own plans for Nell.

I absolutely adored this beautifully written and intriguing story. Part historical fiction, part mystery, with supernatural vibes mixed in. I eagerly await book three.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Elaine C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

MIND BLOWN!!!!!! After finishing the first book in this series, I couldn't see how Ms. Langridge could possibly make another great story ... good thing SHE is the author and not me!! What started out as a week in the country with friends to find inspiration for her next book, our heroine Nell finds much more than she bargained for. There are thefts, burglaries, sinister threats, sympathetic police inspector, handsome strangers, and so many unexplained happenings. But Nell is at Hill House, a house that provides hope, opportunities and miraculous endings! Nurture your soul and read this book!!!!! Get lost in the possibilities and wonders of Hill House and the amazing Mandeville family.

[GERALYN MORALES · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book, but in all fairness I stopped and started too much. I lost the flow. I feel the author tried keeping it a little too secretive, but when she started letting some clues in, it really got good.

[mrs deirdre briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good read enjoying this series just started book 3 well worth reading this series

[Erin Konicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this one as much as I loved the first, but this novel fell rather flat for me. I found I did not connect with Nell as much as I did with Lou. Nor did the love story from this book pack as much of a punch as that of its predecessor. I also found the writing overly descriptive at times, leading me to skip entire sections.

Overall, I am glad that I finished it but it might not be everyone's cup of tea.

[Roberta Matthews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like time travel books. Not as good as the first, but an enjoyable read.

[Ashley Cloninger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Years ago I came upon a time-slip novel called a A Time to Change. I enjoyed the novel so much that it has a permanent space on my bookshelf, so I was thrilled to see the sequel the Mandeville Secret.

It is 1924 and Nell Potter, an author, has accepted an invitation from her college friend Charlotte Mandeville to visit her family home Hill House. Nell is looking for some peace and quiet and a change of scenery to hopefully find the inspiration for her next book. If she cannot come up with a book idea, she will lose her publisher and have to move back home with her parents. A fate she is not looking forward to. Nell like many people of the era still has unresolved mental wounds from the Great War, Hill House is a lovely house, home to Charlotte, her parents, her brother Edward. Sister-in-law Alice and nieces and nephews, Tommy, Daphne and Charlie, and her aunt Mrs. Hart. With Charlotte’s parents, aunt and most of the staff away at the Isle of Wight on vacation, the home has an informal feel as Alice likes to live informally, she was a former maid who married the heir. Strange incidents start to happen. Tommy seems to act strangely and make uncomfortable statements, then there is the sound of a child running through the house laughing and making noise that only Nell can hear. There is the strange man on the grounds that tries to attack Nell before he is chased off by Elliot the chauffeur. There is the mysterious Mr. Townley who pops up in the garden to give sage advice, Then the police show up, looking for the man that tried to attack Nell. Supposedly he has been behind a string of robberies in the area, but Edward and Detective Inspector James Painter seem to believe it is more than just a local thief. Something is very wrong at Hill House. As Nell works with Edward and Inspector Painter to help apprehend the mysterious man, her past comes back to haunt her, but Hill House is not an ordinary house and it will always find a way to help the helpless and vulnerable.

The Mandeville Secret was a wonderful sequel to A Time to Change, we get to catch up with the characters from the 1st book. Mrs. Hart, Charlotte, Bertie, Edward and Alice. It was lovely to see where their lives have taken them and to see the magic that Hill House still wields for those deserving souls that need a bit of help.

Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishers and the author for the chance to read and review this book.

[Rebecca Morgan · Rating 2 out of 5]

First of all, I have to say I didn’t finish this ARC, having stopped at 48%. I liked the story idea of The Mandeville Secret. I did. The writing was good and I enjoyed the author’s use of unusual words or words relative to the English culture. However, sometimes the writing was overly descriptive and bogged down the story, leading to whole sections I skipped.

I liked that the main character, Nell, was a writer in desperate need of an idea. Being a writer myself, I get that. That sometimes the words don’t come. But Nell doesn’t seem to try too hard to get words down for her publisher. She just spends her time moaning she has no ideas. And when she has one, she doesn’t make any effort to work on it. She plays on the beach, walks around the estate, and explores a neighbor’s garden, all the while worried about her deadline.

I started to lose enjoyment for the book when the characters began talking about socialism and how pointless and stupid The Great War was. Helping the poor with one’s own money isn’t socialism—it’s plain kindness and charity.

The buildup of the plot was slow and, at 48% of the way through, I had no clue what’s going on. There’s so much happening (robbers, ghosts, deadlines, romance, and Nell’s past) that it’s confusing and overwhelming. The dire need for funds for a new roof and the forementioned threat of robbers is stated, but I was never worried or invested because it didn’t feel like a real threat.

Halfway through the story, there isn’t even any hard evidence for ghosts—just things that can be chalked up as mischievous boys or Nell losing her mind. Both which are opinions Nell herself has. And while I was aware this was a paranormal, I was expecting something with more of a ghostly influence. So, when the characters wanted to call up a spirit was when the author completely lost me as a reader.

**I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**

[AHR - · Rating 5 out of 5]

The year is 1924 and Nell Potter, also known by her authors pen name of Margot Evangeline is on her way to visit a friend for a holiday in the countryside.
Nell is so excited to see her friend Charlotte Mandeville, but she also has a reason to be heading her way, she is suffering from writer’s block, and hoping she may get some new writing inspiration.
Nell’s breath is taken away at first sight of Charlotte’s house, Hill House, she expected it to be lovely, but this is so grand.
Nell also nurse’s a secret sadness that she carries and hasn’t shared with a single soul. She doesn’t think she’ll ever tell anyone, or shed her hidden sorrow, but will she?

Having read the author Callie Langridge’s first book A Time To Change which I absolutely loved, I knew I wanted to read this new book. I must admit I was a little concerned having loved the last book so much, but from starting this book I knew it had me captured.
Nell is a feisty and fun character, she wants to know what makes people tick. She fits straight in with the family, and I thought the mention of previous characters of the last book were slotted in so seamlessly by the author, whom I love her detailed style of writing and the flow.
I cannot divulge details about the storyline as I would be spoiling its little surprises and mystery, but I didn’t want the book to end.
I found the book kept me in suspense, it was exciting and intriguing. Escapism within the pages at its absolute best.
I totally enjoyed reading this book, and can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Publisher for an advanced e-book copy. Opinions about the book are entirely my own.

[Stephanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book started out really slow for me—and though usually this genre is my thing I was struggling to get into the story — A historical mystery set in 1924 England which focuses on writer, Nell Potter ( who for some reason kept making me think of the author Beatrix Potter), Nell is struggling with writer's block and is hoping time out in the countryside with her friend Charlotte will inspire her writing, she is also dealing with a devastating loss. She goes to spend time at Hill House ( the name of the house also reminded my of the horror book by the same name --the Haunting of Hill House). We start to get mysterious intruder around 20% into the story — who is it and why are they trying to get into the mansion? —which had slight intrigue for me -- but yet at this point I still didn’t feel any connections to any of the characters nor was the story holding my attention and I was beginning to get board — a bit more faster pacing and focus on the mysteries and secrets and less historical politics would’ve been nice . Though the writing was good and the characters had potential —it just didn’t grab me enough for me to continue reading so this was a DNF — it seems this book just wasn’t for me .

Thank-you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC , this is my honest review.

[Gee · Rating 4 out of 5]

England, 1924, Nell Potter is suffering from writers block, so she accepts an invitation to stay with an old friend at Hill House, hoping a change of scene will help.

This was an interesting read, one I didn’t quite follow all the time, but that I enjoyed. Nell is obviously troubled, blaming herself for something that happened some years ago. But she is also portrayed as a really strong character, who knows her own mind and is straight talking. There is some lovely dialogue between Nell & Paul, and Nell & James that had me in tears, gave me goosebumps and made me wish I could write so poignantly. There were certain characters it was easy to love, like Leonora and Paul; ones that made you want to boo them like pantomime villains like Wilco; ones you wanted to know more about, like James and ones you wanted to shake, like Edward. The story was nicely twisted with several plot lines, the odd red herring and a satisfying ending. I wish I’d read the first book as it would have explained a couple of things, but it’s still a stand alone read.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Eliska · Rating 5 out of 5]

continuing the joy

I read the first Mandevilles book ages ago and it stuck with me. It’s one of those haunting stories, with flawed characters you love in situations that pull your heartstrings and written with such fabulous wordsmithing you have to take it slowly and savor each gorgeous turn of phrase. I rather wish I had read the first again before diving into this one (I think some of it would have been more clear had the details been fresh in my mind) but the writing is no less beautiful and the creepiness, as Nell experiences the various mysteries of Hill House, hits just the right tone. I also loved that this one has a happier ending, and we see Louisa is all right, too. I highly recommend the series to anyone who likes historical fiction (early 20th century isn’t my time period, but I was sucked in and none of the myriad details seemed out of place), mystery, time travel, or just reading books so well-written they seem to sing off the page. Callie Langridge has real talent, and I’m extremely grateful she is choosing to share it with the rest of us.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2 in the series jumps ahead about 10 years in time, and we are introduced to more characters in the lives of the Mandeville family. Some of the familiar family members are still present, and we get to know them even better, but the family has grown as well.

Nell comes to visit her college friend Charlotte Mandeville, and while she visits Hill House, there are a serious of attacks made against the family and the guests there. The tension continues to build as Nell seeks to understand the family's secrets. Something just doesn't feel right to Nell, and then she finds herself drawn to the policeman who comes to help the family.

And then of course, there is Mr. Townley...I won't say much about him, but I figured out who he was pretty quickly in the story, and I'm just glad that the author isn't finished with this character even though I'm not sure what exactly Mr. Townley is. I'm hooked and on to book 3.

[Luisa Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I decided to read this book as I’d enjoyed the first in the series, A Time to Change. This one was equally intriguing.
Again, I found the straightforward historical fiction sections of the book more enjoyable than the paranormal mystery aspects, which I found a bit confusing - but that’s just personal taste. I’m sure those aspects will appeal to anyone who enjoys stories about ghosts and time travel.
It was fun to encounter some familiar characters again, as well as some new ones. Nell made a likeable and plucky protagonist with a satisfying character arc which reached a pleasing conclusion.
Overall this is well written and I would definitely read more work by Callie Langridge in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nell is a writer looking for inspiration for her next novel but is coming up empty. When she accepts an invitation to visit an old friend she quickly agrees hoping the change of scenery will help. Upon arrival strange things begin to happen and while out for a walk one day she is nearly attacked by a man. She will do anything to protect this close family of friends so when the police ask her to keep a eye out she readily agrees.
This story reads like a paranormal mystery full of twists and turns, I was totally involved with these characters and I'll miss them. There were so many things happening and I loved it. Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC. I hope to read more from this author.

[Lisa T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored The Mandeville Secret! Because I’d enjoyed A Time to Change so very much, I was nervous to read the next instalment from Hill House, but I needn’t have worried because Langridge has created new characters with just as much depth and intrigue as the original inhabitants of that richly drawn, magical stately home. There’s also the added joy (and surprise) of revisiting many of the characters I’d grown to love in the first in this excellent series.
The Mandeville Secret is beautifully written, compelling historic fiction with added mystery and a dash of the supernatural. The unexpected ending is perfect and made me sob like a baby.
I gobbled this book down in two days and I can’t wait for the next in the series. Highly recommend!

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic and mystery combine beautifully in this historical novel from Calie Langridge that includes a 2nd-chance romance. The historical fiction surrounding the women's suffrage movement in England 100 years ago and the aftermath of WWI on veterans and their families provides a detailed backdrop to the mystery. Paranormal fiction is not my first choice, but I enjoyed how Ms. Langridge wove it into the mystery and combined it with a clean romance.

This was my first read in the series, but I don't feel like I missed anything starting with this book. Thanks to the author, Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the advance reader copy, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.

[Linda S. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had a tough time getting through this one - it started out well but then really dragged in the middle of the story, although the end did keep my interest so I was glad I was able to finish it. The Mandeville Secret tellls the story of Nell, a writer with writer's block, who visits her friend Charlotte Mandeville at Hill House, where strange things happen and time periods seem to be interchangeable. I enjoyed meeting some old friends from A Time to Change in this novel but the pace of the novel means that I just didn't love it as I did the first novel in this series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Patricia Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Callie Langridge's first book in the Mandeville series so was thrilled to get the chance to read an advance copy of the follow up. I was not disappointed. Although the story is written from a completely different angle and set several years in the future it did introduce characters from the first book which allowed one to get ones bearings. It was lovely to have new characters introduced who seem to slot seamlessly into the narrative. Once more Callie had me in tears at the ending so be warned. I hope there's more to come from the Mandeville family.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

[Elaine Fearnley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fascinating and intriguing story. It had me absorbed in the pages from beginning to end. The story flows beautifully, and has a wonderful cast of characters that I immediately engaged with. The setting of Hill House is perfect for the story, and the sense of mystery and trepidation runs throughout the book. I loved the racking up of tension as the story unfolded, and the sense of loss that runs throughout. For me, this story has everything that I want - love, loss, tragedy, hope, mystery - and I loved it.

[Sandy McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

An addictive series.

Nell, a struggling author, visits her friend Charlotte at the family home of Hill House where she hopes to find inspiration for her next book, instead she encounters some unexplainable occuranaces, meets people with hidden secrets, and becomes embroiled in a series of crimes.
A real page-turner of time travel, family secrets, and mystical events.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is the second in a fabulous series, and I am looking forward to reading more.

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tragedy, regrets, loss, murder, theft, kidnapping, mysteries, strange happenings and more all comprise to enthrall the reader from page 1 of Callie Langridge's The Mandeville Secret. Just when you think you have it figured out, another twist occurs that leaves you rapidly turning the next page. I was reminded of Jimmy Stewart in It's A Wonderful Life...when you feel you cannot go on and you are given another chance to change what you regret.

A copy was provided for my review, but all opinions are my own.

[Sharon Valler: Live Love Read Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully written book that will warm your heart. In 1924, writer Nell is looking for inspiration for her next novel - where better than Hill House and The Mandeville family?

Nell definitely gets more than she bargained for, as the house helps her heal from her past. I really liked Nell and little Tommy stole my heart. I’m pleased this book linked in with the first in this series, so we could find out what happened to Lou.

4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Callie Langridge and Storm, for an ARC in return for an honest review.

[Nicola · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Mandeville Secret by Callie Langridge is book 2 of The Mandeville series.
This book focuses on writer, Nell Potter, Nell is struggling with writer's block and her own devastating loss. She goes to Hill House to spend time with her dear friend Charlotte.
Her restful retreat takes her by surprise. The Manor speaks to her, changes changes her life inexplicably.
A charming, if entirely unbelievable read!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the first few pages, I felt drawn into this, and it seemed like a story that I could escape with. I liked the protagonist, Nell, and I was interested in the other characters, even if I didn't find them all likeable. The chapters were quite short, so it was easy to get through, and it had an element of mystery that was intriguing. An elegantly written historical novel.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.

[Selene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book that made me experience feeling I haven't felt in a long time.
If you like Kate Morton style and "Haunting of Blythe Manor", with a sprinkle of Barbara Bradford Taylor, I raccomand this book.
Without spoilers..it combine love, loss, paranormal, history, family's ties, and friendship. I hope that more books will stem from these characters as I want to know more about all of them.
Beautiful job! Thank you, @Netgalley, for providing an ARC.

[Bright Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mandeville Secret by Callie Langridge is book two in the Mandeville Mysteries series.

Nell Potter, a mystery writer, is haunted by a secret. As she finds herself unable to write while the pressure of a deadline breathes down her neck, she receives an invitation.

The college friend of one of the Mandevilles, she arrives at Hill House for a visit. While there she finds herself engrossed in some mysteries not of her own making.

I can’t wait for book three! I love this series!