Secret Dwellings

by Angelina Salvaggio

Escape to Aylesbury England with debut historical romance, Secret Dwellings!
The fires of the Protestant Reformation were ablaze; it was a dangerous time to be a Catholic and hiding priests. Especially when a Protestant Lord tasked with hunting them seeks your hand in marriage.

This is a fast-paced historical romance where Isabel Dawson, a young Catholic woman, and her brother, Jonathon, fearlessly shelter the priests within their home. Their father had passed on his many ways of evading detection, yet nothing could've prepared them for the events that followed his death.
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While this is a clean romance without blasphemy or bedroom spice, I understand everyone's definition of "clean" varies. For the author's detailed rating and trigger warning, please visit her

Genres: Historical Fiction

378 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2025

Reviews

[Jessika Caruso]

The premise of this novel immediately intrigued me. I have not read a novel from the Catholic perspective set in Elizabethan England. The author did a fantastic job setting the scene and then drawing readers in through Isabel Dawson’s fast-paced, first person narrative. I was even partial to the main villain in the beginning, so I identified with Isabel in falling victim to his more charming nature. A narcissist with a troubled past, Lord Drake was one of the most compelling villains I’ve read. The romance aspect was closed-door, just kisses, though the narrative was never boring or tame. I was always on edge waiting to see what would happen to Isabel. I also enjoyed her family members and the secondary characters. There were many touching family moments. All in all, I cannot wait to see what happens to all of them in the sequel!

[Carolyn]

I so enjoyed the storytelling in this debut historical romance! Set during a period of persecution of Catholics in England, Isabel must navigate the persistent and troubling advances of an earl charged with hunting Catholics for Queen Elizabeth.

Characters are well-developed and aside from being a wee bit slow in the first third, the pacing is excellent as the danger, intrigue, and forbidden love escalate. The settings are vivid and the dialogue is excellent. Faith is treated with the respect and complexity it deserves.

For better or for worse, I am unable to turn off my inner editor, and the multitude of punctuation errors and some word usage errors distracted me, preventing me from giving the glowing review a polished version of this story deserves.

[Kelsey Gietl]

Absolutely stunning heartfelt debut! While there are many fictional books about Elizabethan England and the Protestant Reformation, outside of Thomas More's famous stand against Henry VIII, there are far fewer books about the Catholic persecution and martyrdom during this time. Those that do exist, I feel usually describe the experience as Protestant vs Catholic, an us vs them approach, rather than a time that was no doubt filled with mixed opinions. Similar to the many non-Jews who were against Jewish persecution during WWII, Angelina Salvaggio provides a story that shows how, despite religious differences, there were many Protestants who opposed Elizabeth I's unjust policies and were willing to risk their lives to help their fellow Christians. She paints convincing pictures of all the characters from our lead Isabel's internal conflicts of loyalty and love, to Jon's courage to hide priests within their home, to Daniel's unwavering faith even in the face of death, and even to a surprising sympathy toward Lord Drake's two-faced villainy that had me hoping for his conversion. This was a novel that made me truly consider how martyrdom often happens under the guise of criminality, even in our world today. There were many scenes that had me asking, if this happened to me, how would I respond? How far would my courage take me?
On a lighter note, the author has a knack for adding wit and sarcasm to her dialogue that provided a breath of humor in between all the heaviness. I am greatly looking forward to the second book in this series.

[Avellina Balestri]

It's a delight to find another Catholic author delving into the heroic history of Catholic recusants who endured so much to keep the faith alive in England during an age of persecution, harboring priests at the risk of life and limb. This story focuses particularly on the experiences of one young Catholic Englishwoman who finds herself in an extremely difficult position when one of the Queen's chief priest-catchers is drawn to her to a possessive extent. The antagonist reminds me a bit of various interpretations of the Sheriff of Nottingham/Sir Guy of Gisborne in Robin Hood adaptations, usually drawn to Maid Marian in a manner that walks a knife's edge of adoration and destruction. Meanwhile, a lay companion of a missionary priest also becomes a potential love interest for him, putting them both in increased danger. Soon, the heroine will find herself struggling to save him, even if it means sacrificing her own wellbeing. I particularly appreciated the passages the author wrote regarding the eucharist and the character penning devotional poetry, showing the interior life of these figures in the midst of so much high stakes drama. Looking forward to what will happen to the characters in the sequel!

[Christina]

Some books leave you with an ache as you finish them, from the loss of the characters in your daily life. This is that sort of story. From the moment I started reading I was hooked, and often would find myself thinking about the story throughout my day as I anticipated the moment I could revisit it. The writing paints such a lovely visual that you forget you have a book in your hand. The story will put you on an emotional roller coaster that has a satisfying end.

[Christina]

This is truly one of those kinds of books that you just can't put down. And even if you do, you will find yourself coming back to it every ten minutes. Because, after all, whether we want to admit it or not, we *need* to know what Lord Drake is going to do next. Lord Drake is simply a dream boat caught in the midst of his own wild storm and raging winds, as depicted by both his deeply loving, loyal and passionate personality mixed with his clever and manipulative dark charming persona. You will find yourself either loving or hating his character, and nothing in between. Have I mentioned yet that I am team Lord Drake? Shamelessly so. And in case you have no idea, dear future readers, what I am talking about, you will be sure to find out.

[E.R. Magdalen]

I Fell Completely in Love With This Book

I honestly couldn’t put this book down. From the very first chapter, I was swept into a world I’ve always been fascinated by. As a child, I used to read about this exact time in history in my spare hours, outside of school, so finding a story that brings it to life in such a vivid and engaging way felt like a gift.

What struck me most was the way the characters were written. Their relationships felt so real, layered with both tenderness and manipulation. To see raw, genuine love set against a more controlling, manipulative kind was powerful—it made me ache, wonder, and keep turning the pages to see which love would endure.

This book didn’t just entertain me; it reminded me why I love reading. It pulled me back into that childhood fascination, while giving me something new and deeply moving to hold onto. I loved every moment, and I’ll be carrying this story with me for a long time.

-E. R. Magdalen Author

[Colleen Avalos]

Read this despite romance not being a go-to for me so please know my review is coming through that lens (Margaret Clitherow is a favorite Saint friend of mine so the time period and setting deeply intrigued me and is likely what prompted me to pick it up)

If romance is a favorite genre of yours I highly recommend this. The Catholic background was a breath of fresh air to this genre in my humble opinion. Despite my own personal disinterest in some of the actual romance aspects, I found it to be an enjoyable read overall- though as with any piece of literature I read there’s always a few things I wish were either more or less drawn out.

Spoilers: Perhaps it’s just me but I wish the beginnings of the relationship between Isabel and Daniel had been explored more. It felt that there were gaps between their first meeting and them being completely in love with each other that made the jump feel off for me personally- perhaps it is more of a show of the time period though and my own personal lack of taste for the romance genre that makes me feel that way.

You can tell this was a true labor of love for the author and I truly admire how well this was written being a debut novel and look forward to future endeavors of hers.

I must admit I actually am more excited to read the sequel as it mentioned that it plans to follow her brother as an underground priest, which most definitely fits my personal reading interests more.

[Brenda]

This isn't my usual historical period to read but I could not have been more delighted with the story. I was hooked from the first chapter. I think I hated the villain from the first chapter and continue to dread his part of the story from then on. Could a villain be more villainous?!

Isabela was such a delightful character. And so inspiring. The twists and turns in the storyline kept you guessing. Cheering and then booing! Then cheering again. Oh my, it kept your interest that you didn't want to put the book down. Unload the dishwasher, reward myself with another chapter in the book. Pat the dog, another chapter! I just could not read fast enough. How dare my family expect me to cook and clean while reading this!!

I won't reveal the whole story as I want everyone to read it. It should inspire young girls to be strong in their faith and trust that God will watch over you, even in the most difficult of situations. I cannot wait for the next book to see what happens next with Isabela, and her family and to see what has become of Lord Drake.

While this book is fictional, it is based to true events that happened in England to Catholics. History has a habit of repeating itself and this book should serve as an inspiration to all Catholics to never give up. To fight the good fight even to the death if necessary.

[Marylennox327]

I really loved this book and hope to find more Catholic fiction like this! The only reason why I gave it four instead of five stars is because I do feel like it could have been edited down a bit. There were too many scenes that were just Lord Drake trying to convince Isabel to marry him, which caused the book to drag a bit in the middle. It started feeling a little repetitive. The rest of the novel was great though and was well worth the read! Great characters, lots of tension, interesting to learn about this time in Catholic history. Will definitely check out the sequel.

[Antoinette Formosa]

Secret Dwellings was absolutely incredible. I just finished it, and I went through so many emotions while reading. This was such a beautifully written Catholic historical story rich, respectful, and completely captivating. I was hooked from the very first chapter, and it hit every mark I hoped it would.
I felt everything Isabel felt, and I was so drawn into her world that I didn’t want the book to end. I can’t wait to read the sequel, Priest of the Masquerade. This series has my whole heart.

[Brooke Bell]

Wow! This book is far better than words can describe and 5 stars are not enough! Certainly, every Catholic should read it. I truly had no idea the level of Catholic persecution in England. The author weaved compassion, justice, faith, love of sacraments, trust in God ( and so many other things) so beautifully into this story.

Kisses only, minimal(as in not many pages) violence though I'd rate it moderate , few uses of biblical cursing. Read author triggers(domestic violence and SA)

[Gloria Lopez]

I was amazed at the brilliant way this book was written. A lovely story with modest romance, humor and a suspense that won't let you put the book down! A book that finally helps you understand what it was like for Christians who lived in times of persecution and how deep their faith lives within. An inspiring story! Truly hope to read more from Angelina Salvaggio!

[Colleen Earley]

I throughly enjoy a good historical romance and finding one written with a Catholic POV during the reign of QE1 and the Protestant Reformation was incredible! The writing was so vivid I could put myself into the story and found it difficult to put down! I cannot wait for the sequel!!!!
Also I feel the need to read into St. Edmund Campion now.

[LeeAnn McGee]

A beautifully written book, Angelina has a most ingenious mind! I found myself going through many different emotions from liking Lord Drake, to despising and even feeling sorry for him! It is a story that is hard to put down!

[Gina Gallagher]

Incredible Page Turner!!!

This book was completely enthralling. I could not put it down! There were so many twists and turns that it kept me on the edge of my seat for hours!!! The writing was excellent and the plot completely unpredictable! I can't wait to read the sequel!

[Lupita]

Such a wonderful story! I loved how it gently taught me new things about the Catholic faith (I had no idea a Catholic couldn’t hold the English crown!) while still being so meaningful and engaging. Highly recommend!

P.S. No spice, just sweet 😊

[Abbi Starcevic]

This book was an effortless read for me. The story was engaging, I was deeply invested in the characters, I even wanted to throw the book against the wall multiple times (in a good way). I experienced the emotional twists and turns along with the characters. I can’t wait for the sequel!

[Michele Irions]

Loved this book. A clean read that wasn't boring, at all. Wonderful story and I will definitely read the next one. Thank you to the author for writing this!

[Kennedy Hudson]

My absolute favorite book ever! Everything about this book is so good! The Catholicism, the history, the romance! As a Catholic myself I loved every bit of it!

[King'S Fast]

Catholic fiction involving the Tudor era is my favorite trope and this book was perfect in its storytelling. Please write more books.

[Emma Swan]

Overall: 3.5 Star Rating

Debut novel for this author! Congratulations to her on a job well done.

I was very impressed with her mastery of language throughout. Dialogue flows smoothly. Author is articulate and uses excellent grammar and sentence structure; she does a good job of painting pictures of the scenes in her reader’s minds and shows what is happening rather than telling. Characters are defined and developed. I very much enjoyed the themes of family, loyalty, and commitment to integrity/living by one’s convictions even in the face of personally difficult choices and societal persecution.

The historic background section at the beginning of the book was a little confusing and choppy but the novel itself flows very smoothly. The first section of book could perhaps have benefited from less repetition of similar scenes (I found myself wanting to skip ahead a bit but didn’t), but second half of book had lots of forward movement, good pace, and kept my interest. I appreciated the historical context and insight; I am not Catholic however so I did not understand some things that were often referenced but not explained (ie, what is an “Ave”?). The ending tied up most loose ends; the last paragraph ended slightly abruptly but I believe that was intentional, meant to be a bridge in to her forthcoming sequel….which I am happily looking forward to reading.

[Bernadette]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I had such a hard time putting this book down!!! It had me in suspense to the very end!! I finished the last part of the book in one sitting late at night! I had to know what happened! 🫣😂 Highly recommend and looking so forward to Book 2!!!

[Samantha Smith]

This book was excellent Gave it a five star because it kept you on the edge of your seat and had a hard time putting it down!!! Can't wait for the sequel!!!!!

[Gina Parker]

I really enjoyed this book! What a great read, it was suspenseful, engaging, and a respectful amount of romance. I couldn't put it down. I look forward to more books by this author!

[Michelle Beblar]

This is a wonderful Catholic novel set a time where Catholics were put to death in England.