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The Secrets of Ormdale #2
Drake Hall
Edith’s ancient home is full of secrets…and dragons are the least of them.
As the new dragon keeper in the hidden valley of Ormdale, Edith expects her first dragon mating season to involve venomous bites and amorous wyverns.
She doesn’t expect to find herself growing closer to an inconveniently appealing suitor next door, or to stumble upon a dragon poacher lurking in the outbuildings, or to uncover a family scandal in the Abbey.
Fortunately, Edith has a mentor to help her sort things out, the spellbinding Helena Drake of Drake Hall. Or does Helena harbour secrets of her own?
For Edith, the dragons were always going to be the easy part.
DRAKE HALL, Book 2 of The Secrets of Ormdale, takes Edith deeper into the cosy gothic world of Yorkshire dragons and the mysterious families who guard them.
As the new dragon keeper in the hidden valley of Ormdale, Edith expects her first dragon mating season to involve venomous bites and amorous wyverns.
She doesn’t expect to find herself growing closer to an inconveniently appealing suitor next door, or to stumble upon a dragon poacher lurking in the outbuildings, or to uncover a family scandal in the Abbey.
Fortunately, Edith has a mentor to help her sort things out, the spellbinding Helena Drake of Drake Hall. Or does Helena harbour secrets of her own?
For Edith, the dragons were always going to be the easy part.
DRAKE HALL, Book 2 of The Secrets of Ormdale, takes Edith deeper into the cosy gothic world of Yorkshire dragons and the mysterious families who guard them.
236 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2024
175 people are currently reading
991 people want to read
About the author
Christina Baehr
8 books680 followersI live in wild and cosy Tasmania, Australia, and I write intrepid historical heroines who discover the world is more wondrous than they previously imagined.
I'm also a big reader of books both old and new, so here's a quick heads up about my review policy:
1. If you are a living author, as another living author I will not be giving you a critical review, because I know writing books is hard! Reading mean reviews makes everything harder.
2. If you are dead, the gloves are off!
3. Absence of stars may mean ambivalence as to quality, it may also mean I don't feel Aristotle needs my star rating.
4. Five stars may not mean I think the book is perfect. It can mean that I deeply enjoyed the book despite inevitable flaws, or that I consider it an excellently-crafted example in its genre (even if the genre is not my favourite). I may also be more generous with star ratings to living authors who need encouragement. E.M Forster won't mind if I give him 4 stars (see point 2).
6. I may occasionally flag major content I think will be distressing to people who follow my reviews, but I don't do granular content/trigger warnings, because I read books as whole works of art, and don't note the swears etc as I go. My brain is tired enough as it is. So please do look elsewhere if you want to know every single thing that's in the book beforehand.
I'm also a big reader of books both old and new, so here's a quick heads up about my review policy:
1. If you are a living author, as another living author I will not be giving you a critical review, because I know writing books is hard! Reading mean reviews makes everything harder.
2. If you are dead, the gloves are off!
3. Absence of stars may mean ambivalence as to quality, it may also mean I don't feel Aristotle needs my star rating.
4. Five stars may not mean I think the book is perfect. It can mean that I deeply enjoyed the book despite inevitable flaws, or that I consider it an excellently-crafted example in its genre (even if the genre is not my favourite). I may also be more generous with star ratings to living authors who need encouragement. E.M Forster won't mind if I give him 4 stars (see point 2).
6. I may occasionally flag major content I think will be distressing to people who follow my reviews, but I don't do granular content/trigger warnings, because I read books as whole works of art, and don't note the swears etc as I go. My brain is tired enough as it is. So please do look elsewhere if you want to know every single thing that's in the book beforehand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 359 reviews
October 27, 2024
🐉 early 2024 review:
Read this book through a thunderstorm and stay up way too late reading it, but enjoyed it so much.
I did have to go back and read a little bit of the prior book because this second book picks up almost right after the end of the first one and doesn’t recap much at the very beginning. (It starts with conversations and a bit in gives some notes and main recaps.) Which is totally fine when you’re binging a series, but it’s been a few months since I was in the world and wanted to enjoy it as much as possible.
Edith learns and realizes a lot about herself, those around her, and many secrets in this book. She’s growing in the most natural way on these new circumstances. I really liked those elements because it all came together so well. Once again, the writing style and vocabulary used was lovely and just made the book all that much better to me.
We have a bit more of the potential romance between Edith and Simon in this book and less about all the dragon parts, but I really like the dynamics of their friendship that could one day lead to more, so I was fine with that. I’m so curious about what will happen in the next book with them!
🐉 late 2024 reread review (audiobook):
Just lovely, absolutely lovely and now I can finally continue reading this series before the final book (in this main series) releases next month!
Main Content:
Lots about dragons and wyverns and such topics (very much treated as something many believe to be mythological creatures, but our main characters know they’re real); Mentions of mythical creatures from folklore (like nymphs); Mentions of Greek mythology; Mentions of the possibility of someone/some place being magical & a woman being an enchantress (because of her unique personality); A handful of mentions of a pagan goddess and some people worshiping her (a cult); A few mentions of a Christian ruler being superstitious and believing a dragon would offer protection.
A few prayers; A handful of Scriptures are referenced, mentioned, & quoted; Edith is a clergyman’s daughter and there’s quite a few times she talks about it, her duties, and parishioners (including some that were too much for her); Edith goes to a field and is concerned it’s a sacred grove that was used for pagan sacrifices in ancient times (it isn’t); Mentions of the Lord, prayers, & praying; Mentions of churches, church going, services, parishioners, & Edith’s father being a clergyman and her duties as a clergyman’s daughter; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A few mentions of paintings of Mary and baby Jesus; A few mentions of Whitsunday (Pentecost); A few mentions of shrines & places being like shrines; A couple mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of saints.
No language besides the phrase “good heavens!” and “for heaven’s sake” being exclaimed, however, the phrase “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” is quoted once; Edith is given ale and she drinks it. “Dear God” is also said, but I don’t believe the character meant it flippantly.
Animals are killed and eaten on page (by the dragons or for the dragons, this includes birds and a cow); Mentions of events in Book #1 that could have caused the death of a child & did cause the death of a man; Mentions of prejudice against Jews & massacres of Jews (including some justifying their actions against Jews because “as long as your neighbors are from the same race as Christ himself, the priest will bless it all”; Edith also notices jibes about Jews and those who make comments against them and it hurts and bothers her); Mentions of horrible fathers (belittling and verbally abusive, we see the aftermath) and ones who didn’t care to listen to women’s opinions; Mentions of slaves, slavery, & people being kidnapped; Mentions of thieves, stealing, & major burns/injuries; Mentions of dragon bites, injuries, & those bitten being near death; A few mentions of parts of a dragon’s wings being removed so it wouldn’t fly away from it’s new owner; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of deaths (from a dragon); A couple mentions of possible hanging for a criminal; A mention of possible cannibalism with dragons.
Wanting to kiss someone (a sudden impulse that lasts a few sentences that Edith does not act on); A bit of touches/embraces (when sick), blushes, & flirting; Edith feels repugnant about the idea of “breeding” with someone for a future special bloodline (due to her gifts); Edith comments that babies being born out-of-wedlock doesn’t shock her as it’s in the Bible after all; Mentions of a man taking advantage of a young woman under his employment & her having a child from what happened (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of out-of-wedlock pregnancies, illegitimate children & children being born in “bedpans” (i.e. low birth); Mentions of crushes & being interested in someone of the opposite gender; Mentions of dragons mating & “all that” (Edith says she’s a clergyman’s daughter who would see young women come confess to her father and her step-mother being honest to her about “all that”); A few mentions of chaperones & reputations; A mention of women being violated in a massacre.
Read this book through a thunderstorm and stay up way too late reading it, but enjoyed it so much.
I did have to go back and read a little bit of the prior book because this second book picks up almost right after the end of the first one and doesn’t recap much at the very beginning. (It starts with conversations and a bit in gives some notes and main recaps.) Which is totally fine when you’re binging a series, but it’s been a few months since I was in the world and wanted to enjoy it as much as possible.
Edith learns and realizes a lot about herself, those around her, and many secrets in this book. She’s growing in the most natural way on these new circumstances. I really liked those elements because it all came together so well. Once again, the writing style and vocabulary used was lovely and just made the book all that much better to me.
We have a bit more of the potential romance between Edith and Simon in this book and less about all the dragon parts, but I really like the dynamics of their friendship that could one day lead to more, so I was fine with that. I’m so curious about what will happen in the next book with them!
🐉 late 2024 reread review (audiobook):
Just lovely, absolutely lovely and now I can finally continue reading this series before the final book (in this main series) releases next month!
Main Content:
Lots about dragons and wyverns and such topics (very much treated as something many believe to be mythological creatures, but our main characters know they’re real); Mentions of mythical creatures from folklore (like nymphs); Mentions of Greek mythology; Mentions of the possibility of someone/some place being magical & a woman being an enchantress (because of her unique personality); A handful of mentions of a pagan goddess and some people worshiping her (a cult); A few mentions of a Christian ruler being superstitious and believing a dragon would offer protection.
A few prayers; A handful of Scriptures are referenced, mentioned, & quoted; Edith is a clergyman’s daughter and there’s quite a few times she talks about it, her duties, and parishioners (including some that were too much for her); Edith goes to a field and is concerned it’s a sacred grove that was used for pagan sacrifices in ancient times (it isn’t); Mentions of the Lord, prayers, & praying; Mentions of churches, church going, services, parishioners, & Edith’s father being a clergyman and her duties as a clergyman’s daughter; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A few mentions of paintings of Mary and baby Jesus; A few mentions of Whitsunday (Pentecost); A few mentions of shrines & places being like shrines; A couple mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of saints.
No language besides the phrase “good heavens!” and “for heaven’s sake” being exclaimed, however, the phrase “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” is quoted once; Edith is given ale and she drinks it. “Dear God” is also said, but I don’t believe the character meant it flippantly.
Animals are killed and eaten on page (by the dragons or for the dragons, this includes birds and a cow); Mentions of events in Book #1 that could have caused the death of a child & did cause the death of a man; Mentions of prejudice against Jews & massacres of Jews (including some justifying their actions against Jews because “as long as your neighbors are from the same race as Christ himself, the priest will bless it all”; Edith also notices jibes about Jews and those who make comments against them and it hurts and bothers her); Mentions of horrible fathers (belittling and verbally abusive, we see the aftermath) and ones who didn’t care to listen to women’s opinions; Mentions of slaves, slavery, & people being kidnapped; Mentions of thieves, stealing, & major burns/injuries; Mentions of dragon bites, injuries, & those bitten being near death; A few mentions of parts of a dragon’s wings being removed so it wouldn’t fly away from it’s new owner; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of deaths (from a dragon); A couple mentions of possible hanging for a criminal; A mention of possible cannibalism with dragons.
Wanting to kiss someone (a sudden impulse that lasts a few sentences that Edith does not act on); A bit of touches/embraces (when sick), blushes, & flirting; Edith feels repugnant about the idea of “breeding” with someone for a future special bloodline (due to her gifts); Edith comments that babies being born out-of-wedlock doesn’t shock her as it’s in the Bible after all; Mentions of a man taking advantage of a young woman under his employment & her having a child from what happened (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of out-of-wedlock pregnancies, illegitimate children & children being born in “bedpans” (i.e. low birth); Mentions of crushes & being interested in someone of the opposite gender; Mentions of dragons mating & “all that” (Edith says she’s a clergyman’s daughter who would see young women come confess to her father and her step-mother being honest to her about “all that”); A few mentions of chaperones & reputations; A mention of women being violated in a massacre.
July 29, 2024
Another intriguing episode in this series. Onward to Wales. So many fun connections. Well done, Christina. I did not expect the “twist” at the end.
May 26, 2025
it's a very good thing I'm starting this series AFTER all the books have been released.
October 14, 2025
If the first book left me charmed and intrigued, I was cheering and fist-pumping by the end of this one! Oh, to think of wasted potential and undiscovered birthrights. Our Edith had been so content with getting on with her vicar’s daughter duties and her moonlight novel-writing and then she jumps into manor mistress and dragon-wrangler and friend-zoner like—forget second-nature—it’s her first. Two very particular shout-outs from this non-fantasy romance reader:
-how the fantastical aspects revealed are tied and grounded to historical references makes me so happy.
-how I put my patience hat on because I knew the sweet romance in this would be a long-term pay-off and yet we are more than rewarded along the way! The undeniable he-falls-first vibes and the capable mama’s boy vibes and the Byronic-wrapped cinnamon roll vibes are all a-vibing.
At times I was like “so much going on,” but I love how it all made the themes intertwine and harmonize with Edith’s arc and some side character spotlights. Again, fist-pumping for this resolution. My bags are packed, and I’m off to Wild Wales!
Content notes: Very mild content. Brief scene of child in peril. Vague allusion to side character’s illegitimacy as a result of unwanted advances from a person of power.
-how the fantastical aspects revealed are tied and grounded to historical references makes me so happy.
-how I put my patience hat on because I knew the sweet romance in this would be a long-term pay-off and yet we are more than rewarded along the way! The undeniable he-falls-first vibes and the capable mama’s boy vibes and the Byronic-wrapped cinnamon roll vibes are all a-vibing.
At times I was like “so much going on,” but I love how it all made the themes intertwine and harmonize with Edith’s arc and some side character spotlights. Again, fist-pumping for this resolution. My bags are packed, and I’m off to Wild Wales!
Content notes: Very mild content. Brief scene of child in peril. Vague allusion to side character’s illegitimacy as a result of unwanted advances from a person of power.
January 16, 2024
I loved this book an unreasonable amount the first time I read it as a draft, and since then it's only gotten better. DRAKE HALL is absolutely delightful - deeper and richer than the first book, expands the story world, explores the characters, and brings back echoes of every charming English slice-of-life summer holidays book you ever read (from Enid Blyton's FAMOUS FIVE to Elizabeth Von Armin's ENCHANTED APRIL), with a deeper core of meaning that has to do with small, secluded communities and the sometimes controlling way they treat their young people. If you loved the cosy, whimsical flavour of EMILY WILDE or Olivia Atwater's Regency Faerie Tales, but would like to have your cosy fantasy with baby dragons instead of faeries, you need to read this series now.
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Finally getting to add this to my 2023 Goodreads list! I beta read this back in March and it was DELIGHTFUL - sunshine, shenanigans, and secrets! Probably my second favourite in the series. Can't wait to read the final version!
-
Finally getting to add this to my 2023 Goodreads list! I beta read this back in March and it was DELIGHTFUL - sunshine, shenanigans, and secrets! Probably my second favourite in the series. Can't wait to read the final version!
May 4, 2025
This was SO FUN!!
June 11, 2025
Had a few bumps and difficulties with this one but still enjoyed it for the most part.
Unlike Wormwood Abbey I had trouble getting into it and even caring at times what Edith was doing or why and she’s still a bit too judgmental for my tastes, especially towards Simon. Gwendolyn I got REALLY annoyed at several times and I can see why Edith doesn’t tell her about her writing yet because I sure wouldn’t if I were her!
And Helena Drake is the most awful, manipulative, conniving, snake who I despise with my entire being and sincerely hope she doesn’t get redeemed and Simon gains the courage to break away from her because she’s AWFUL! Second she offered to serve him on a platter to Edith she gained my complete and utter disgust and I will never not despise her. What’d her son ever do to her anyways besides be born a man? 😤
Beautiful cover as always! And I’m curious to see where the adventure goes next, I just was underwhelmed by this one and struggled to want to finish it, lol. It didn’t help that I read a new all time favorite at the same time but even if I hadn’t I think I still would have struggled.
‼️Content‼️
Language: damned
Violence: a boy hits a man on the head with a branch (not shown); a child was bitten by a dragon (not shown or detailed)
Alcohol/Drugs: dragon scales/bites are poisonous to humans
Other: a magical ability; dragons; an illegitimate child
Unlike Wormwood Abbey I had trouble getting into it and even caring at times what Edith was doing or why and she’s still a bit too judgmental for my tastes, especially towards Simon. Gwendolyn I got REALLY annoyed at several times and I can see why Edith doesn’t tell her about her writing yet because I sure wouldn’t if I were her!
And Helena Drake is the most awful, manipulative, conniving, snake who I despise with my entire being and sincerely hope she doesn’t get redeemed and Simon gains the courage to break away from her because she’s AWFUL! Second she offered to serve him on a platter to Edith she gained my complete and utter disgust and I will never not despise her. What’d her son ever do to her anyways besides be born a man? 😤
Beautiful cover as always! And I’m curious to see where the adventure goes next, I just was underwhelmed by this one and struggled to want to finish it, lol. It didn’t help that I read a new all time favorite at the same time but even if I hadn’t I think I still would have struggled.
‼️Content‼️
Language: damned
Violence: a boy hits a man on the head with a branch (not shown); a child was bitten by a dragon (not shown or detailed)
Alcohol/Drugs: dragon scales/bites are poisonous to humans
Other: a magical ability; dragons; an illegitimate child
March 24, 2025
This was a fantastic second book to the series! And, all the ✨ Family drama✨
Was an…interesting touch. I can’t wait to read book three!!! Agh this is definitely one of my favorite series.
The writing style is interesting as well! As someone who has dabbled in writing, her use of literary references is an excellent touch to an already good book!
If I think about it, I maybe will make this review longer.
Was an…interesting touch. I can’t wait to read book three!!! Agh this is definitely one of my favorite series.
The writing style is interesting as well! As someone who has dabbled in writing, her use of literary references is an excellent touch to an already good book!
If I think about it, I maybe will make this review longer.
Read
April 29, 2024I hope all of you who fell for WORMWOOD
ABBEY enjoy this summery episode in The Secrets of Ormdale to the full. You’ll find new characters (including one I’ve been told is the series’ best!), new dragons, and a romance beckoning that Edith may or may not be ready for. And—of course—the Dale hasn’t given up all its secrets yet…
ABBEY enjoy this summery episode in The Secrets of Ormdale to the full. You’ll find new characters (including one I’ve been told is the series’ best!), new dragons, and a romance beckoning that Edith may or may not be ready for. And—of course—the Dale hasn’t given up all its secrets yet…
May 20, 2024
Cozy, gothic, charming… I love Simon and Edith and can’t wait to find out more!
September 17, 2024
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). I have put off this review for weeks because I dreaded having to put into words how much I enjoyed it. I was so scared it wouldn’t be quite as good as book 1, but it took up the torch and continued in unbroken amazingness.
Where do we start? The characters, I suppose. I love how everyone is such a great continuation of themselves. It’s wonderful to see Edith build confidence and Gwendoline heal and Simon take control. They’re all three finding themselves, and it’s wonderful. Helen was not who I expected her to be and I ended up almost mourning over her; but I love, LOVE, L-O-V-E Janushek. (I have a thing for Polish/Slavic guys, apparently??) He’s fantastic and I cannot wait to know more about him.
As in book two, the mysteries are slowly revealed… more and more is being built on, and it’s whetting my appetite so much!!! There’s the usual excellent humour and the sweet family scenes and a splendid plot, just similar enough to book 1 to be satisfying. The tiny thread of romance is super cute and I love all the historical connections happening as Edith discovers more about herself, the dragons, and the dale. The relatableness, the mock Gothic feels, and the everyday life interwoven with danger and questioning is epic.
But my favourite thing is the themes. Christina Baehr really goes in for the kill here as she tackles parental/hereditary trauma and social injustice. There’s Gwendoline struggling to let go of the dark habits and beliefs ingrained in her by her father, and battling social prejudices as a woman seeking to become a doctor; there’s Simon, whose parent stifles him to make up for the trauma she herself endured at the hands of her husband; there’s Janushek, who faces racism and social ostracism because of his jewish roots, his foreign origin, and his physical scars; and finally, there’s Pip, born of the master of the house assaulting a young, pretty maid, and who with his mother receives neither aid nor acknowledgement—all very real and very terrible yet common and disregarded happenings.
I love how Edith takes consciousness of all these evils and sets out to battle them, even if alone and unsupported. I love how she starts understanding the people of the dale and ministering to them, accepting her role as a protector and keeper. Her backbone is developing, and she’s got such a good mixture of respect and fearlessness.
The story ends on a cliffhanger as the first one did, but I didn’t need that to make me eager for book 3!
A Favourite Quote: “Courage is love defying fear. And that’s what those girls need…. Just keep being Edith, and take them along with you sometimes. What you are doing here—being a friend to Gwendolyn and Simon, and heaven knows what else you’ve taken on in this place—is courageous. And they will see it, if you let them.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: But they remained faithful, keeping watch; keeping England’s dragons secret and safe. And the world around them changed, and people were ashamed to think that their grandparents had ever believed in dragons.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: But it had colourful scales instead of fur, small useless wings halfway down its body, and (or so it seemed to me) an expression of simmering fury. I had schooled myself not to stare at it, lest I annoy it further, but today I thought it looked if possible even more sour-tempered—no doubt as a result of its involuntary ablutions.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Where do we start? The characters, I suppose. I love how everyone is such a great continuation of themselves. It’s wonderful to see Edith build confidence and Gwendoline heal and Simon take control. They’re all three finding themselves, and it’s wonderful. Helen was not who I expected her to be and I ended up almost mourning over her; but I love, LOVE, L-O-V-E Janushek. (I have a thing for Polish/Slavic guys, apparently??) He’s fantastic and I cannot wait to know more about him.
As in book two, the mysteries are slowly revealed… more and more is being built on, and it’s whetting my appetite so much!!! There’s the usual excellent humour and the sweet family scenes and a splendid plot, just similar enough to book 1 to be satisfying. The tiny thread of romance is super cute and I love all the historical connections happening as Edith discovers more about herself, the dragons, and the dale. The relatableness, the mock Gothic feels, and the everyday life interwoven with danger and questioning is epic.
But my favourite thing is the themes. Christina Baehr really goes in for the kill here as she tackles parental/hereditary trauma and social injustice. There’s Gwendoline struggling to let go of the dark habits and beliefs ingrained in her by her father, and battling social prejudices as a woman seeking to become a doctor; there’s Simon, whose parent stifles him to make up for the trauma she herself endured at the hands of her husband; there’s Janushek, who faces racism and social ostracism because of his jewish roots, his foreign origin, and his physical scars; and finally, there’s Pip, born of the master of the house assaulting a young, pretty maid, and who with his mother receives neither aid nor acknowledgement—all very real and very terrible yet common and disregarded happenings.
I love how Edith takes consciousness of all these evils and sets out to battle them, even if alone and unsupported. I love how she starts understanding the people of the dale and ministering to them, accepting her role as a protector and keeper. Her backbone is developing, and she’s got such a good mixture of respect and fearlessness.
The story ends on a cliffhanger as the first one did, but I didn’t need that to make me eager for book 3!
A Favourite Quote: “Courage is love defying fear. And that’s what those girls need…. Just keep being Edith, and take them along with you sometimes. What you are doing here—being a friend to Gwendolyn and Simon, and heaven knows what else you’ve taken on in this place—is courageous. And they will see it, if you let them.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: But they remained faithful, keeping watch; keeping England’s dragons secret and safe. And the world around them changed, and people were ashamed to think that their grandparents had ever believed in dragons.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: But it had colourful scales instead of fur, small useless wings halfway down its body, and (or so it seemed to me) an expression of simmering fury. I had schooled myself not to stare at it, lest I annoy it further, but today I thought it looked if possible even more sour-tempered—no doubt as a result of its involuntary ablutions.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
December 26, 2025
SO wonderful and completely hard to explain! But it's fantastical and literary and fun! Clean, faith-filled, and wholesome. Loved it.
Can't wait for book #3 in the series.
Many more details to come on my YouTube channel soon. 💙
Can't wait for book #3 in the series.
Many more details to come on my YouTube channel soon. 💙
December 10, 2024
Delightful, charming, surprising. I ship Edith and Simon so hard.
(Are we still saying that?)
(Are we still saying that?)
June 9, 2024
Very intriguing and delightful next book in the series! So many threads to follow going forward, and I just love the characters!
February 9, 2025
Oh, how lovely this book is!! I did not want to put it down and it left me just as enchanted as the first book. I’m excited to continue the series. If you like historical fantasy with awesome heroines, dragons, strong family and friend relationships, and a little slow-burn romance, you HAVE to read this series.
January 25, 2025
A lovely continuation of the first book. This one was a calmer story, with a sweet romance brewing. I am eager to read the next one!
I highly highly recommend the audiobooks of these books, the narrator is fabulous and nails the accents and flow. Easily my favorite listening experience to date!
I highly highly recommend the audiobooks of these books, the narrator is fabulous and nails the accents and flow. Easily my favorite listening experience to date!
May 18, 2025
If “Wormwood Abbey” felt like being invited to a secret society of dragon keepers, then 𝘿𝙧𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙃𝙖𝙡𝙡 by Christina Baehr is what happens when you’re handed the keys, a pair of boots, & told, “Best of luck! The dragons are mating, the neighbors are suspicious, & your house might be hiding ancient scandals. Cheers!”
And reader, I adored it.
WHAT CASTS A SPELL:
🐉 Dragons with drama & opinions
❤️ A romance that whispers, not shouts
🕰️ Secrets in abbeys & stairwells
✍️ Prose so good you’ll reread it out loud
🧣 Yorkshire charm + crumbling mansions
⛪ Faith, folklore, & a dash of pagan scandal
🕯 Found family, fragile trust, & fierce loyalty
🧠 Smart heroine, slow burn tension
⚖️ Emotional themes handled with grace
TOP MOMENTS TO WATCH FOR (No Spoilers!):
🛁 A dragon bath gone hilariously wrong
🥶 A sacred grove showdown with chills
🌚 A nighttime talk laced with longing
🩶 A scarred stranger with hidden depths
😱 A poacher, a scandal, and Edith on the warpath
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Drake Hall is the literary equivalent of a well-worn cloak: comforting, clever, & full of hidden pockets. This sequel dives deeper into Ormdale with gothic charm, quiet wisdom, & a heroine you’ll want to cheer for—and maybe swaddle in a blanket. Edith, is back with sharp wit, deep doubts, & a knack for uncovering everyone’s secrets (even the dragons’).
Baehr’s prose is warm, witty, & sneakily profound—equal parts chuckle & gasp. The family drama? Deliciously messy. The romance? A perfectly simmering slow burn. The dragons? Moody, bitey, & utterly endearing. I docked one star only because the pacing sagged slightly midway through, but even then, I was fully invested in every page.
⭐️ RATINGS
📖 Book: 4 stars – The writing is lovely, the worldbuilding rich, and the characters compelling, but the pacing slows in the middle as it sets up book 3. It feels more like a bridge book than a full standalone.
🎧 Audiobook narrator: 4.5 stars – Warm, expressive, and immersive narration with distinct character voices. Docked half a star only because I had to adjust the speed to maintain pacing, but overall a delightful listen.
And reader, I adored it.
WHAT CASTS A SPELL:
🐉 Dragons with drama & opinions
❤️ A romance that whispers, not shouts
🕰️ Secrets in abbeys & stairwells
✍️ Prose so good you’ll reread it out loud
🧣 Yorkshire charm + crumbling mansions
⛪ Faith, folklore, & a dash of pagan scandal
🕯 Found family, fragile trust, & fierce loyalty
🧠 Smart heroine, slow burn tension
⚖️ Emotional themes handled with grace
TOP MOMENTS TO WATCH FOR (No Spoilers!):
🛁 A dragon bath gone hilariously wrong
🥶 A sacred grove showdown with chills
🌚 A nighttime talk laced with longing
🩶 A scarred stranger with hidden depths
😱 A poacher, a scandal, and Edith on the warpath
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Drake Hall is the literary equivalent of a well-worn cloak: comforting, clever, & full of hidden pockets. This sequel dives deeper into Ormdale with gothic charm, quiet wisdom, & a heroine you’ll want to cheer for—and maybe swaddle in a blanket. Edith, is back with sharp wit, deep doubts, & a knack for uncovering everyone’s secrets (even the dragons’).
Baehr’s prose is warm, witty, & sneakily profound—equal parts chuckle & gasp. The family drama? Deliciously messy. The romance? A perfectly simmering slow burn. The dragons? Moody, bitey, & utterly endearing. I docked one star only because the pacing sagged slightly midway through, but even then, I was fully invested in every page.
⭐️ RATINGS
📖 Book: 4 stars – The writing is lovely, the worldbuilding rich, and the characters compelling, but the pacing slows in the middle as it sets up book 3. It feels more like a bridge book than a full standalone.
🎧 Audiobook narrator: 4.5 stars – Warm, expressive, and immersive narration with distinct character voices. Docked half a star only because I had to adjust the speed to maintain pacing, but overall a delightful listen.
November 15, 2024
Gahhhhhhhhhhhh. SIMMMMOONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
That’s all 🤪😍
I liked this better than the first!
Ok I’m gonna go now
RTC maybe(?)
That’s all 🤪😍
I liked this better than the first!
Ok I’m gonna go now
RTC maybe(?)
January 27, 2025
THIS FINISHED FAR TOO QUICKLY…!
I am reading the ebook, sitting in the living room, on the couch and my brothers walked in just as I finished and literally shouted to the room, “IT’S FINISHED?!?!” As I had not realized how far I’d gone and it ended rather abruptly and on the perfect note haha..!
My brothers just laughed, as brothers do.
I am reading the ebook, sitting in the living room, on the couch and my brothers walked in just as I finished and literally shouted to the room, “IT’S FINISHED?!?!” As I had not realized how far I’d gone and it ended rather abruptly and on the perfect note haha..!
My brothers just laughed, as brothers do.
January 19, 2025
The ending of this book was wonderful. The Worms and Simon, so unusual for people in that 1800s but I love them so much. Listen to that final chapter with the music from Mrs. Baehr's newsletter and it might make you shed a tear.
Secrets of Ormdale Abbey as a whole review: (Posted on ever Ormdale book.)
There is WAY too much I want to say about these books so I shall only write a few paragraphs.
The many many allusions to classic literature in these books has been absolutely amazing. I know from when I first read book one, Wormwood Abbey, that I had stumbled upon a piece of gold in the dust, a hidden gem. (Thank you to Lindsey at BFCG for making these books known to a plethora of readers.) One of my few passions is literature, specifically classic literature following the Great Conversation between our beloved authors such as C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Edmund Spenser, Jane Austen, etc.. When I find authors who implement classical pieces of art (literature) into their books it is a great joy to me because the art of writing well and following after our story artists is not so lost after all. So thank you Mrs. Baehr for making older works known to the contemporary audience. You have helped fuel my desire to read more classics so I can grasp the allusions all the more.
These books have been written well. There are English words I had never encountered before, or ones that are rarely used in our contemporary world. The writing style is easy to follow and leaves you wanting to keep reading, until then it is realized the book only has 178 pages and you have just finished page 171. The storyline pulls people in, but on that I can only speak for myself. One reason I believe it was so enjoyable was because it is a work of fiction but so much had been inspired by real history, yet it did not seem so. It seemed too fantastical. I have, unfortunately, not been a fan of learning about history. All the well known wars and such were, and are, a bore to me. Reading books like this however, sparks my mind into wanting to learn about the historical influences on these books because it was so fascinating. Applause to Mrs. Baehr on that note as well.
The romance was quite sweet and it was just enough for my taste. It was wholesome, and while there were ups and downs, as to be expected, it was handled well. Simon, Edith, Gwendolyn, and others who can’t be named for spoiler purposes, had just wonderful character arcs. While seeing the change was bittersweet in a way, it ended on a wonderful note. The ending ended just how a comedy should end. And no, not a, “Hahahah, that's so funny” comedy. A comedy that is shaped like a U, it begins with a fine situation, descends into chaos, and then ascends back up to a fine situation. Comedies always end with a feast, wedding, or celebration.
When Mrs. Baehr publishes another book you can bet all your money I will be reading it ASAP.
Secrets of Ormdale Abbey as a whole review: (Posted on ever Ormdale book.)
There is WAY too much I want to say about these books so I shall only write a few paragraphs.
The many many allusions to classic literature in these books has been absolutely amazing. I know from when I first read book one, Wormwood Abbey, that I had stumbled upon a piece of gold in the dust, a hidden gem. (Thank you to Lindsey at BFCG for making these books known to a plethora of readers.) One of my few passions is literature, specifically classic literature following the Great Conversation between our beloved authors such as C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Edmund Spenser, Jane Austen, etc.. When I find authors who implement classical pieces of art (literature) into their books it is a great joy to me because the art of writing well and following after our story artists is not so lost after all. So thank you Mrs. Baehr for making older works known to the contemporary audience. You have helped fuel my desire to read more classics so I can grasp the allusions all the more.
These books have been written well. There are English words I had never encountered before, or ones that are rarely used in our contemporary world. The writing style is easy to follow and leaves you wanting to keep reading, until then it is realized the book only has 178 pages and you have just finished page 171. The storyline pulls people in, but on that I can only speak for myself. One reason I believe it was so enjoyable was because it is a work of fiction but so much had been inspired by real history, yet it did not seem so. It seemed too fantastical. I have, unfortunately, not been a fan of learning about history. All the well known wars and such were, and are, a bore to me. Reading books like this however, sparks my mind into wanting to learn about the historical influences on these books because it was so fascinating. Applause to Mrs. Baehr on that note as well.
The romance was quite sweet and it was just enough for my taste. It was wholesome, and while there were ups and downs, as to be expected, it was handled well. Simon, Edith, Gwendolyn, and others who can’t be named for spoiler purposes, had just wonderful character arcs. While seeing the change was bittersweet in a way, it ended on a wonderful note. The ending ended just how a comedy should end. And no, not a, “Hahahah, that's so funny” comedy. A comedy that is shaped like a U, it begins with a fine situation, descends into chaos, and then ascends back up to a fine situation. Comedies always end with a feast, wedding, or celebration.
When Mrs. Baehr publishes another book you can bet all your money I will be reading it ASAP.
March 30, 2025
I rarely read a book that leaves me thinking “this author loves all the books I love.” And I could be absolutely wrong… but I don’t think I am. The references to Austen, Brontes, Arthurian legends and myths… there’s even a bit of Anne of green gables… I love this series. I wish I could hand this to 15 or 17 year old me. It would have been so good for me.
When writing anything fantasy/magically-tinged… I find it’s easy to fall in love with the world building, but lose steam when you get used to the world. Not the case here. The characters really shine with more nuance and depth… things became less straight forward and honestly, more interesting with the characters in this installment.
Can’t wait to continue escaping into these books. And Christina Baehr - respectfully… I would like to be friends lol. I think we like the same books.
When writing anything fantasy/magically-tinged… I find it’s easy to fall in love with the world building, but lose steam when you get used to the world. Not the case here. The characters really shine with more nuance and depth… things became less straight forward and honestly, more interesting with the characters in this installment.
Can’t wait to continue escaping into these books. And Christina Baehr - respectfully… I would like to be friends lol. I think we like the same books.
April 2, 2025
I LOVE EDITH AND SIMON SO MUCH 😭😭😭
December 6, 2023
read this one in beta earlier this year. i so much enjoy what Christina is doing here with these books; everything i loved about the first book was here, and MORE. we get themes such as the way small communities can devour themselves, and the kind of work it is to dismantle familial power structures, plus the kind of work it is just recognising your own part in the damage, and so much more
there's so much richness in these books thematically, and so much warmth, and so much God in tiny ways.
also many, many dragons
there's so much richness in these books thematically, and so much warmth, and so much God in tiny ways.
also many, many dragons
January 18, 2024
I absolutely loved the first of the Secrets of Ormdale, so I was thoroughly excited to get my hands on an ARC of the sequel. I was certain that I'd love it just as much as the first book, and I was not at all disappointed! Everything I loved about Wormwood Abbey is here in Drake Hall, but arguably more so.
One of my favorite aspects about this book and series is that they're grounded in family (for better and for worse). Since book 1, Edith, her immediate family, and her cousins have all grown closer, and it's beautiful to see the bonds that have formed (and continue to grow) between them, whether that's Edith encouraging Gwendolyn as she steps outside of what was expected of her and towards her dreams of the future, Gwendolyn helping Edith navigate life as a keeper of dragons, or just George, Violet, and Una having their own adventures in the background. (Side note: I rather want a Penderwicks-style Middle Grade companion novel about what those three get up to . . . I think it would be an absolute delight.)
That said, this book also hits on the ways that family shapes you — and, particularly, how family can cause pain and hurt, whether that's intentional or not. We see this in multiple characters, particularly Gwendolyn, Una, and Simon. Gwendolyn has the weight of tradition and expectation on her shoulders and she's only just now discovering she can do things her own way. Una fears her family's legacy and all that it means. And Simon, though he loves Ormdale and the dragons, is likewise caught up in what's expected of him. However, Baehr keeps the promise that there can be change and healing firmly in view, so this never becomes overly disheartening.
The other big theme in this book is the tension between tradition and change, and Baehr handles it equally well. Wormwood Abbey, Drake Hall, and Ormdale are very rural, traditional places, and some of those traditions are good . . . but sometimes, clinging to tradition because it's traditional or it's how things have always been can cause more hurt than harm, and we see that quite clearly in these pages. Baehr acknowledges both sides of this conflict, recognizing the good in each, and as with the family themes, she never lets the reader lose sight of the hope that things can be better than they are.
However, even with these significant, often difficult themes, Drake Hall is a pleasure to read. It's simultaneously the perfect summer book and the perfect winter read. I've read one series (The Penderwicks again) that can match the level of summer-infusion in this book.
Baehr's description brings to life the lush warmth of this glorious season alongside the feeling of possibility that summer brings. Those qualities, plus the highly enjoyable voice, make it the perfect book for enjoying on a summer afternoon . . . or on a winter night, when the narrative will make you forget the snow outside and feel as if some of that summery-ness has found its way to you.
And, of course, one has to mention the dragons! There are so many dragons! These include both the familiar — Francis and the wyvern both are frequently present on the page — to new types of dragon like the river dragon on the cover. We also see dragons from many different lands: European, Asian, and more — plus, more dragon lore! And dragon-adjacent lore! It's all delightful to discover, especially with the way Baehr weaves together fact and fantasy.
In short: I loved this book, and I'm sure others will too. And whether I next revisit it in sunny summer or on another cold winter day, I expect I'll enjoy it just as much then.
One of my favorite aspects about this book and series is that they're grounded in family (for better and for worse). Since book 1, Edith, her immediate family, and her cousins have all grown closer, and it's beautiful to see the bonds that have formed (and continue to grow) between them, whether that's Edith encouraging Gwendolyn as she steps outside of what was expected of her and towards her dreams of the future, Gwendolyn helping Edith navigate life as a keeper of dragons, or just George, Violet, and Una having their own adventures in the background. (Side note: I rather want a Penderwicks-style Middle Grade companion novel about what those three get up to . . . I think it would be an absolute delight.)
That said, this book also hits on the ways that family shapes you — and, particularly, how family can cause pain and hurt, whether that's intentional or not. We see this in multiple characters, particularly Gwendolyn, Una, and Simon. Gwendolyn has the weight of tradition and expectation on her shoulders and she's only just now discovering she can do things her own way. Una fears her family's legacy and all that it means. And Simon, though he loves Ormdale and the dragons, is likewise caught up in what's expected of him. However, Baehr keeps the promise that there can be change and healing firmly in view, so this never becomes overly disheartening.
The other big theme in this book is the tension between tradition and change, and Baehr handles it equally well. Wormwood Abbey, Drake Hall, and Ormdale are very rural, traditional places, and some of those traditions are good . . . but sometimes, clinging to tradition because it's traditional or it's how things have always been can cause more hurt than harm, and we see that quite clearly in these pages. Baehr acknowledges both sides of this conflict, recognizing the good in each, and as with the family themes, she never lets the reader lose sight of the hope that things can be better than they are.
However, even with these significant, often difficult themes, Drake Hall is a pleasure to read. It's simultaneously the perfect summer book and the perfect winter read. I've read one series (The Penderwicks again) that can match the level of summer-infusion in this book.
Baehr's description brings to life the lush warmth of this glorious season alongside the feeling of possibility that summer brings. Those qualities, plus the highly enjoyable voice, make it the perfect book for enjoying on a summer afternoon . . . or on a winter night, when the narrative will make you forget the snow outside and feel as if some of that summery-ness has found its way to you.
And, of course, one has to mention the dragons! There are so many dragons! These include both the familiar — Francis and the wyvern both are frequently present on the page — to new types of dragon like the river dragon on the cover. We also see dragons from many different lands: European, Asian, and more — plus, more dragon lore! And dragon-adjacent lore! It's all delightful to discover, especially with the way Baehr weaves together fact and fantasy.
In short: I loved this book, and I'm sure others will too. And whether I next revisit it in sunny summer or on another cold winter day, I expect I'll enjoy it just as much then.
August 5, 2024
Loved this installment and learning more about Ormdale and its secrets. Simon is so sweet and I love him.
January 8, 2024
What a fantastic sequel to Wormwood Abbey! This was every bit as good as the first book. It’s such a charming and cozy read.
We get to know the characters even better in this book and see new layers to all of them. I already liked them, but now I love them even more. I love the family dynamics, the friendships, and the slow-burn romance. And I loved that there were more dragons! It’s so cool learning about them!
There’s something so comforting about this series. I just want to dive into the pages and live in this world. I’m loving it so much! I highly, highly recommend it.
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
We get to know the characters even better in this book and see new layers to all of them. I already liked them, but now I love them even more. I love the family dynamics, the friendships, and the slow-burn romance. And I loved that there were more dragons! It’s so cool learning about them!
There’s something so comforting about this series. I just want to dive into the pages and live in this world. I’m loving it so much! I highly, highly recommend it.
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
January 5, 2025
Way more cheesy and not as enjoyable as the first book.
December 17, 2024
I am really enjoying this series! I am developing quite a fancy for clever dragon stories.
This is a lovely bit of world-building and reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice (my favourite book) so I am predisposed to love this, but it has much more.
The characters are well-written and strong personalities, all with their own unique qualities. But I especially love Edith! Her determination to be herself and do good and help others, even while insisting on being herself even when others would prefer she be someone they feel more comfortable with, makes her a character I have fallen completely in love with!
All the other characters are just as interesting and engaging, and I have quickly become very fond of all of them and highly invested in what happens to them. I have every intention of continuing with this series!
This is a lovely bit of world-building and reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice (my favourite book) so I am predisposed to love this, but it has much more.
The characters are well-written and strong personalities, all with their own unique qualities. But I especially love Edith! Her determination to be herself and do good and help others, even while insisting on being herself even when others would prefer she be someone they feel more comfortable with, makes her a character I have fallen completely in love with!
All the other characters are just as interesting and engaging, and I have quickly become very fond of all of them and highly invested in what happens to them. I have every intention of continuing with this series!
May 9, 2025
“…all this time I thought medicine was solving mysteries, trying to see inside people for what's wrong with them-like trying to catch the criminal in a detective story. But it's not just that, it's not just nerves and glands and things—it's the people themselves."
This quote reminded me of the message given in a nursing book I read: “Created and Called”.
The heart of nursing should be loving and caring for the people you are ministering to, not simply treating them because it is your job or evaluating them as if they are a scientific experiment or puzzle waiting to be found out.
I loved that part of the story so just wanted to share it.
As for the book itself, it was a great read!!
Highly recommend.
This quote reminded me of the message given in a nursing book I read: “Created and Called”.
The heart of nursing should be loving and caring for the people you are ministering to, not simply treating them because it is your job or evaluating them as if they are a scientific experiment or puzzle waiting to be found out.
I loved that part of the story so just wanted to share it.
As for the book itself, it was a great read!!
Highly recommend.
November 18, 2025
Why I read this: for more dragons of course! And I’d be lying if I hadn’t been hoping for a little more romance.
What I actually got: surprising character development, uncovered secrets, a new intriguing side character, plus a budding romance, though it’s still up in the air. Drake’s mother might be my favorite though, for she is… morally gray shall we say? A most intriguing woman. I shall definitely be continuing.
My nitpick: this smaller novel feels like reading part 2 of a three act play instead of a full book, so make sure you have book 3 ready!
4.6 ⭐️ rounded up!
Quotes:
“Courage is love defying fear. And that's what those girls need.... Just keep being Edith, and take them along with you sometimes. What you are doing here—being a friend to Gwendolyn and Simon, and heaven knows what else you've taken on in this place—is courageous. And they will see it, if you let them."
Audio: delightful
Content: no language, no kisses, mild suspense
What I actually got: surprising character development, uncovered secrets, a new intriguing side character, plus a budding romance, though it’s still up in the air. Drake’s mother might be my favorite though, for she is… morally gray shall we say? A most intriguing woman. I shall definitely be continuing.
My nitpick: this smaller novel feels like reading part 2 of a three act play instead of a full book, so make sure you have book 3 ready!
4.6 ⭐️ rounded up!
Quotes:
“Courage is love defying fear. And that's what those girls need.... Just keep being Edith, and take them along with you sometimes. What you are doing here—being a friend to Gwendolyn and Simon, and heaven knows what else you've taken on in this place—is courageous. And they will see it, if you let them."
Audio: delightful
Content: no language, no kisses, mild suspense
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