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Whispers at Painswick Court
She expected her return to Painswick would bring memories of the past--not danger and romance.
Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place where she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year.
Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sickroom nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own.
As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her resolution to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real culprit--and protect her heart--before it's too late?
Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this compelling Regency-era novel laced with intrigue, love, and English village charm for fans of historical romance and whodunit mysteries.
Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place where she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year.
Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sickroom nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own.
As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her resolution to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real culprit--and protect her heart--before it's too late?
Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this compelling Regency-era novel laced with intrigue, love, and English village charm for fans of historical romance and whodunit mysteries.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2025
106 people are currently reading
5395 people want to read
About the author
Julie Klassen
33 books6,162 followersJulie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her books, The Silent Governess, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Midwest Book Award, the Minnesota Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award, and been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards and ACFW’s Carol Awards. She blogs at http://www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
November 25, 2025
I absolutely loved this story! It was very entertaining. There is mystery, murder, a “ghost”, and romance. Anne is a wonderful character. I love her. She is brave, kind and smart. She really cares for others and tries to help them the best she can. She learned medical skills from her father and uses them to help Lady Celia who keeps having close calls with death. There are multiple people living at Painswick Court and one or more of them is a villain, but who is it? I really loved the mystery part of this story. I honestly didn’t guess it. The ghost parts did creep me out a little bit so I had to finish reading in the day time haha. I also really loved the romance part of the story. It was so sweet. There is good Christian content through out. Overall, I thought this a wonderful story and I definitely recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
November 21, 2025
Wow! This book is amazing! I think it's my favorite book by Julie Klassen so far! There's mystery, intrigue, suspense, a "ghost" and a very sweet love story.
The characters are written brilliantly! Each one had some sort of mysterious quality. I was immediately invested in their stories. Anne is a wonderful young woman. She has the gift of being a wonderful nurse but she doesn't believe in herself due to an unfortunate situation. She's compassionate, caring and a protector. Dr Ernest Finch is 😍! He's very mysterious because he's keeping a huge secret. He's also compassionate, caring and treats his patients with tender care. He also turned out to be quite the romantic!!
Lady Celia is very important to the whole plot. Her tenacity and iron grip on her family led many to despise her. Unfortunately for her this led to many people wanting her dead. The actual perpetrator completely surprised me!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The characters are written brilliantly! Each one had some sort of mysterious quality. I was immediately invested in their stories. Anne is a wonderful young woman. She has the gift of being a wonderful nurse but she doesn't believe in herself due to an unfortunate situation. She's compassionate, caring and a protector. Dr Ernest Finch is 😍! He's very mysterious because he's keeping a huge secret. He's also compassionate, caring and treats his patients with tender care. He also turned out to be quite the romantic!!
Lady Celia is very important to the whole plot. Her tenacity and iron grip on her family led many to despise her. Unfortunately for her this led to many people wanting her dead. The actual perpetrator completely surprised me!
I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 10, 2026
4.5 stars, review to come!
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December 4, 2025
3.5 rounded down for Goodreads. The cover is absolutely gorgeous and what made me buy it in the first place. Normally, I don’t love her books. There’s always something that I don’t like. 😂 I really liked the mystery part! That kept
me turning the page and guessing who did it. I will have to say before I start on the characters…there are a lot of characters. I honestly got confused and lost sometimes like who is that? Like they would call them by their first name and then suddenly their last name? I was like where did that person come from? 😂 Anyway, Anne was a good character. I enjoyed her and the way she changed and learned throughout the book. Dr. Finch was interesting and it took me a bit to see them together. The love story wasn’t the greatest or something that I was greatly invested in. Lady Celia was a character! I don’t like the way it ended with her though. Rosa was a sweetheart and I really liked her despite her past mistakes. Jude was disgusting and I wasn’t a fan of him at all. But I don’t like the way it ended with him. Why does there always have to be a guy who seduces all these ladies? On that note, there is an affair, child born out of wedlock and some advances. But nothing was described in detail, thank goodness. I wish there was more faith content. There were a couple sentences that I appreciated, but not enough to be considered Christian fiction in my opinion. Overall, I did like it and enjoyed some parts. It could have definitely been better.
me turning the page and guessing who did it. I will have to say before I start on the characters…there are a lot of characters. I honestly got confused and lost sometimes like who is that? Like they would call them by their first name and then suddenly their last name? I was like where did that person come from? 😂 Anyway, Anne was a good character. I enjoyed her and the way she changed and learned throughout the book. Dr. Finch was interesting and it took me a bit to see them together. The love story wasn’t the greatest or something that I was greatly invested in. Lady Celia was a character! I don’t like the way it ended with her though. Rosa was a sweetheart and I really liked her despite her past mistakes. Jude was disgusting and I wasn’t a fan of him at all. But I don’t like the way it ended with him. Why does there always have to be a guy who seduces all these ladies? On that note, there is an affair, child born out of wedlock and some advances. But nothing was described in detail, thank goodness. I wish there was more faith content. There were a couple sentences that I appreciated, but not enough to be considered Christian fiction in my opinion. Overall, I did like it and enjoyed some parts. It could have definitely been better.
December 3, 2025
4.5 stars
Hold on to your reticules because Whispers at Painswick Court kept me uncertain until almost the very end which characters could be trusted… and which characters were hiding dangerous secrets. The tone of this deliciously Gothic romantic mystery by Julie Klassen reminded me (to my great delight) of two of my fave novels by this author – The Tutor’s Daughter and The Secret of Pembrooke Park, so of course I couldn’t put it down. I immediately befriended the tenderhearted-but-practical Anne Loveday, or would have if only she wasn’t a fictional character. Her savvy instincts not only prolong her patient’s life more than once but also keep our suspicions high that someone is trying to hasten Lady Celia’s death prematurely. And when Anne herself is considered a suspect, I was ready to give someone a good reticule-whomping.
Every good romantic mystery needs a house like Painswick Court – the perfect mix of grandiose, creaky, and mysterious – housing more than its share of secrets, grudges, and dysfunctional relationships. I held my breath more than once while Anne moved throughout its halls, as though my own silence was required to keep her presence under wraps when she stumbled upon another hushed conversation or skulking shadow. Whether it was the lady’s maid, one of the nephews, the daughter, the ‘ghost’ of a former king, or a local doctor or two, there always seemed to be someone slinking in or out of Lady Celia’s room – or huddled together elsewhere, exchanging heated words or meaningful glances. Which meant my mind stayed as busy as Anne’s, trying to figure out what we might be misinterpreting (thanks to Klassen’s clever misdirections and red herrings) and what’s exactly as dastardly as it seems. I loved every mysterious minute of it! Not to mention the sweet romance that left me swooning too. As is often the case with Gothic novels, I couldn’t let myself rest easy in a possible HEA until I knew my preferred hero for Anne wasn’t actually a villain. And with Klassen’s skilled storytelling, I wasn’t sure until … well, until I was sure. (How’s that for clarity? LOL) I hoped I was right about how things appeared though and, despite how he tested our trust, my heart still fluttered right along with Anne’s whenever he walked in the room.
Bottom Line: Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen swept me straight into the atmospheric halls of a sprawling manor full of secrets and kept both my heart and mind engaged (and guessing!) from beginning to end. This master author skillfully paints nearly every character in the story against a backdrop of unease and uncertainty, the only exception being our guileless and courageous heroine (who is so easy to root for and love). Not even the potential romantic heroes are free from suspicion and, while I tried to hold my affections in check until I knew whether or not my fave was hiding murderous plots behind his attraction to Anne, I confess that my swoon-instinct refused to stay completely aloof. The tension stays deliciously ominous, the layers of deception unwind slowly and smartly, and the finale ties everything together perfectly (though not to perfection… because, after all, that’s part of what Anne learns along the way – that life can be beautiful even when it doesn’t turn out exactly the way we’d originally hoped).
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Hold on to your reticules because Whispers at Painswick Court kept me uncertain until almost the very end which characters could be trusted… and which characters were hiding dangerous secrets. The tone of this deliciously Gothic romantic mystery by Julie Klassen reminded me (to my great delight) of two of my fave novels by this author – The Tutor’s Daughter and The Secret of Pembrooke Park, so of course I couldn’t put it down. I immediately befriended the tenderhearted-but-practical Anne Loveday, or would have if only she wasn’t a fictional character. Her savvy instincts not only prolong her patient’s life more than once but also keep our suspicions high that someone is trying to hasten Lady Celia’s death prematurely. And when Anne herself is considered a suspect, I was ready to give someone a good reticule-whomping.
Every good romantic mystery needs a house like Painswick Court – the perfect mix of grandiose, creaky, and mysterious – housing more than its share of secrets, grudges, and dysfunctional relationships. I held my breath more than once while Anne moved throughout its halls, as though my own silence was required to keep her presence under wraps when she stumbled upon another hushed conversation or skulking shadow. Whether it was the lady’s maid, one of the nephews, the daughter, the ‘ghost’ of a former king, or a local doctor or two, there always seemed to be someone slinking in or out of Lady Celia’s room – or huddled together elsewhere, exchanging heated words or meaningful glances. Which meant my mind stayed as busy as Anne’s, trying to figure out what we might be misinterpreting (thanks to Klassen’s clever misdirections and red herrings) and what’s exactly as dastardly as it seems. I loved every mysterious minute of it! Not to mention the sweet romance that left me swooning too. As is often the case with Gothic novels, I couldn’t let myself rest easy in a possible HEA until I knew my preferred hero for Anne wasn’t actually a villain. And with Klassen’s skilled storytelling, I wasn’t sure until … well, until I was sure. (How’s that for clarity? LOL) I hoped I was right about how things appeared though and, despite how he tested our trust, my heart still fluttered right along with Anne’s whenever he walked in the room.
Bottom Line: Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen swept me straight into the atmospheric halls of a sprawling manor full of secrets and kept both my heart and mind engaged (and guessing!) from beginning to end. This master author skillfully paints nearly every character in the story against a backdrop of unease and uncertainty, the only exception being our guileless and courageous heroine (who is so easy to root for and love). Not even the potential romantic heroes are free from suspicion and, while I tried to hold my affections in check until I knew whether or not my fave was hiding murderous plots behind his attraction to Anne, I confess that my swoon-instinct refused to stay completely aloof. The tension stays deliciously ominous, the layers of deception unwind slowly and smartly, and the finale ties everything together perfectly (though not to perfection… because, after all, that’s part of what Anne learns along the way – that life can be beautiful even when it doesn’t turn out exactly the way we’d originally hoped).
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
January 8, 2026
Dear Reader, this period drama is positively brimming with tea just waiting to be poured! Secrets and scandals. Suspicious accidents in the sickroom and sneaking about shadowy corridors by candlelight.
Fans of Jane Austen’s “Northanger Abbey” will adore this keep-you-guessing, cozy mystery enriched by sincere faith, sweetened by a pinch of romance, and served with Regency era propriety.
If you fancy a manor house inhabited by intrigue, allow Julie Klassen to regale you with the Whispers at Painswick Court!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own honest opinion.
December 1, 2025
A mystery, a murder, a rumored royal haunting, a disgraced officer, and a rake set the tone for this gothic story. Having devoured Klassen’s On Devonshire Shores series, I was glad to be among the first to listen to this audiobook. It carried the wonderful prose I’ve come to expect from her, along with rich descriptions of Painswick Court, the herbal and medicinal remedies of 1821, the characters, and their attire.
The story is a little slow at the start, but the pace quickens once Anne Loveday settles into the house and the sinister mishaps targeting Lady Celia begin. Lady Celia is a spitfire, and I enjoyed watching how each person in her orbit handled her brusque manner. Her daughter works hard to please her. Others try to cajole and steer her toward reason. Jude argues with her outright, and both Anne and Rosa care for her. It felt like observing a wide range of personalities gathered under one roof.
While the romance is lukewarm, the mystery kept my attention.
Listeners familiar with Klassen’s audiobooks will recognize Elizabeth Jasicki. Once again, her performance captures the characters well and is always pleasant to listen to.
A solid 4-star listen.
I received this audiobook from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
The story is a little slow at the start, but the pace quickens once Anne Loveday settles into the house and the sinister mishaps targeting Lady Celia begin. Lady Celia is a spitfire, and I enjoyed watching how each person in her orbit handled her brusque manner. Her daughter works hard to please her. Others try to cajole and steer her toward reason. Jude argues with her outright, and both Anne and Rosa care for her. It felt like observing a wide range of personalities gathered under one roof.
While the romance is lukewarm, the mystery kept my attention.
Listeners familiar with Klassen’s audiobooks will recognize Elizabeth Jasicki. Once again, her performance captures the characters well and is always pleasant to listen to.
A solid 4-star listen.
I received this audiobook from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
November 30, 2025
Julie Klassen is one of my favorite historical fiction authors. Head and shoulders above many. This was a gentle story. Engaging from the start. Memorable characters. Ms. Klassen’s writing is so descriptive, it’s easy to see the scenes unfold in my mind’s eye. Anne was such a sweet, humble character. Another bonus for me was the lovely, uplifting, light faith content. Highly recommend. Outstanding narration.
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
December 21, 2025
I love a good mystery and this book has that plus more. It is set in the Regency Era with a cast of characters to guess whodunit. The setting the author portrayed left me wanting to get a ticket and cross the pond to visit this historic sight and cast my eyes on the Yew trees. The romance is sweet and the ending is my favorite kind. Happy Ever After.
October 9, 2025
It’s always a pleasure to read a book by Julie Klassen. She expertly weaves a story that both entertains and enthralls. This is a wonderful blend of mystery and romance that will have you turning pages as you try to figure out who is behind the happenings at Painswick Court. With a variety of characters and possible motives the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. I love a story that keeps me guessing.
This is a clean read with Christian themes that will leave you uplifted and satisfied. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a great regency mystery.
This is a clean read with Christian themes that will leave you uplifted and satisfied. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a great regency mystery.
December 14, 2025
God, the Great Physician, had known it all along. 📚☕
Our main female character was intelligent, kind, and patient - no matter what. I liked that. She was also very sentimental, and I loved that her Grandparent’s very romantic story was a thread throughout the plot.
Our main female character was intelligent, kind, and patient - no matter what. I liked that. She was also very sentimental, and I loved that her Grandparent’s very romantic story was a thread throughout the plot.
I liked the immediate use of humour and sarcasm in the first sentence and sprinkled over it all.
📚 romantic
📚gentle mystery
📚 VERY slow burn
📚highly entertaining
Triggers: rakish behavior, infidelity in the past, illegitimacy
I am blessed to have received an advanced reader copy directly for the December 2nd, 2025 release date, and my opinions are fully my own.
✨📚✨more of an in-depth review on my “Clean Reads” channel soon
December 9, 2025
“Whispers at Painswick Court” by Julie Klassen is yet another hit by this beloved author! Julie Klassen is one of my favorite authors and always delivers fantastic historical fiction! This is a standalone historical mystery in the vein of Agatha Christie. It is filled with secrets, mystery, and that delicious Gothic feeling. Ms. Klassen delivers great suspense and mystery, which kept me turning the pages and not wanting to put it down until I discovered the answers! I loved the many nods to Austen and other literary characters, especially the nods to “Persuasion” and “Northanger Abbey.” The story has a great spiritual component where the characters struggle with unanswered prayers, being angry with God, feeling unworthy of Him answering their prayers, and feelings of failure. They learn to not give up hope and to embrace God’s plans when their own go awry. God does redeem past mistakes. Anne Loveday, our heroine, learns to see herself as God sees her. There are beautiful moments between family members that I loved, and overall, the characters are memorable. I loved all the historical details and medical knowledge Ms. Klassen adds to the story. I highly recommend this mystery filled with threats, murder, whispers, secrets, and deception!
Content: I give this book a high PG rating. Some examples of the content: mention of a ghost; past infidelity between a married man and unmarried woman; someone is drunk; illegitimate child and people slept together out of wedlock in the past; someone is given an overdose of medication.
TW: loss of a parent; mention of death from childbirth; difficult stepfamily dynamics; past gambling; parental abandonment; speculation of su*cide; attempted assault.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Content: I give this book a high PG rating. Some examples of the content: mention of a ghost; past infidelity between a married man and unmarried woman; someone is drunk; illegitimate child and people slept together out of wedlock in the past; someone is given an overdose of medication.
TW: loss of a parent; mention of death from childbirth; difficult stepfamily dynamics; past gambling; parental abandonment; speculation of su*cide; attempted assault.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 20, 2025
This story moves softly, almost carefully, as though it knows that some houses hold more than furniture and walls. Painswick Court holds memory, restraint, and unspoken history, and the novel allows those things to breathe instead of rushing past them. I found myself listening with a kind of attentiveness that felt fitting for a place like this.
Anne Loveday is a heroine shaped by usefulness, by watching closely, by learning through years of quiet service. Her medical knowledge is earned through patience and responsibility. I appreciated how her desire to live a meaningful, steady life is neither dismissed nor romanticized. There is a humility to her strength and purpose that felt true to the period and to the story being told.
The mystery unfolds through tension rather than spectacle. Unease settles in slowly. Questions linger. Trust becomes complicated. The fullness of the cast invited careful attention, and the pacing reflected the layered nature of the story. The atmosphere, the setting, the relationships, and the quiet undercurrent of threat held my attention with a steady pull.
As an audiobook, this experience was especially rich. Elizabeth Jasicki’s narration is excellent, engaging, and wonderfully expressive. Her voice work carries emotion with restraint, allowing moments of concern, reflection, and vulnerability to land naturally. She gave clarity to a layered cast and brought warmth to quieter scenes, making the listening experience feel immersive, emotional, and steady.
Faith is present in a gentle, fitting way through conscience, choice, and moral reflection rather than overt declaration. It feels appropriate to the Regency setting and to characters who are learning how to act rightly when clarity is hard to come by.
This was a thoughtful, atmospheric listen. It values patience, observation, and quiet courage, and is one I will continue to savor.
Readers drawn to reflective Regency stories, layered households, capable heroines shaped by service, slowly unfolding mysteries, and audiobooks where narration adds depth will find much to appreciate here. This is a wonderful story that favors mood and moral tension over fast-paced action.
I received a digital version of this book from RBmedia via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review (4.5 stars). My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing, narration, and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Anne Loveday is a heroine shaped by usefulness, by watching closely, by learning through years of quiet service. Her medical knowledge is earned through patience and responsibility. I appreciated how her desire to live a meaningful, steady life is neither dismissed nor romanticized. There is a humility to her strength and purpose that felt true to the period and to the story being told.
The mystery unfolds through tension rather than spectacle. Unease settles in slowly. Questions linger. Trust becomes complicated. The fullness of the cast invited careful attention, and the pacing reflected the layered nature of the story. The atmosphere, the setting, the relationships, and the quiet undercurrent of threat held my attention with a steady pull.
As an audiobook, this experience was especially rich. Elizabeth Jasicki’s narration is excellent, engaging, and wonderfully expressive. Her voice work carries emotion with restraint, allowing moments of concern, reflection, and vulnerability to land naturally. She gave clarity to a layered cast and brought warmth to quieter scenes, making the listening experience feel immersive, emotional, and steady.
Faith is present in a gentle, fitting way through conscience, choice, and moral reflection rather than overt declaration. It feels appropriate to the Regency setting and to characters who are learning how to act rightly when clarity is hard to come by.
This was a thoughtful, atmospheric listen. It values patience, observation, and quiet courage, and is one I will continue to savor.
Readers drawn to reflective Regency stories, layered households, capable heroines shaped by service, slowly unfolding mysteries, and audiobooks where narration adds depth will find much to appreciate here. This is a wonderful story that favors mood and moral tension over fast-paced action.
I received a digital version of this book from RBmedia via NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review (4.5 stars). My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing, narration, and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
November 23, 2025
This wonderful mix of mystery and romance will have you eager to turn pages, trying to unravel who is behind the happenings at Painswick Court. With such a diverse cast of characters and potential motives, the suspense will keep you hooked. It's a clean read with meaningful Christian themes that will leave you feeling uplifted. I love a good Regency mystery. I also appreciated the author's notes and the discussion questions included—such a thoughtful touch that would be great for group discussions or personal reflection.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
#WhispersatPainswickCourt
#regencyhistoricalromance
#faith #regencyromance #regencyfanmichelle
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
#WhispersatPainswickCourt
#regencyhistoricalromance
#faith #regencyromance #regencyfanmichelle
January 1, 2026
4.5. Great mystery! Lots of great characters!
November 29, 2025
This book gave me those warm Regency vibes that feel like settling in with a steamy cuppa! The blend of mystery and romance was lovely. It took me a little while to fully sink in as the opening moves at a gentler pace, laying out the setting and characters, but once the story found its rhythm, I was completely hooked!
(Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC!)
(Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC!)
January 14, 2026
"She expected her return to Painswick would bring memories of the past--not danger and romance."
💭 My thoughts:
Agatha Christie and Jane Austen vibes unite in this regency mystery novel about Anne Loveday! Anne is a capable surgeon’s daughter who wants to live a useful life, not simply get married. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she returns to the picturesque village of Painswick, only to end up nursing the very woman who once shattered her sister’s dreams. Painswick Court is all shadowy halls, rumored hauntings, suspicious “accidents,” and a cast of characters who keep you guessing: handsome nephews, a secretive maid, and whispers that might be ghostly… or something far more sinister! The suspense builds deliciously, the faith elements feel natural and uplifting, and the romance? Slow, tender, and earned. 🥹 I was hooked from Anne's first uneasy night in that old house!
My Rating: 5⭐️ for this page-turner regency mystery. I highly recommend this book!
💕 Read If You Like:
* Friends to more trope
* Whodunit mysteries
* Finding purpose after tragedy
* Selfless and caring main characters
* English village setting
* Gentle regency romance
* Family relationship redemption
(This was my last read of 2025 and I couldn't have chosen a better novel to end the year with! 👏👏)
💭 My thoughts:
Agatha Christie and Jane Austen vibes unite in this regency mystery novel about Anne Loveday! Anne is a capable surgeon’s daughter who wants to live a useful life, not simply get married. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she returns to the picturesque village of Painswick, only to end up nursing the very woman who once shattered her sister’s dreams. Painswick Court is all shadowy halls, rumored hauntings, suspicious “accidents,” and a cast of characters who keep you guessing: handsome nephews, a secretive maid, and whispers that might be ghostly… or something far more sinister! The suspense builds deliciously, the faith elements feel natural and uplifting, and the romance? Slow, tender, and earned. 🥹 I was hooked from Anne's first uneasy night in that old house!
My Rating: 5⭐️ for this page-turner regency mystery. I highly recommend this book!
💕 Read If You Like:
* Friends to more trope
* Whodunit mysteries
* Finding purpose after tragedy
* Selfless and caring main characters
* English village setting
* Gentle regency romance
* Family relationship redemption
(This was my last read of 2025 and I couldn't have chosen a better novel to end the year with! 👏👏)
January 18, 2026
Whispers at Painswick Court is a beautifully written regency era novel with suspense and gothic vibes. The story is full of mystery and has small glimmers of faith woven throughout. I would consider this more of a cozy murder mystery with a touch of slow-burn romance. While the romance in this book was lukewarm, the mystery held my attention until the end.
3.5 🌟 rounded up to 4🌟
Thank you to NetGalley and RBMedia/Recorded Books for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
3.5 🌟 rounded up to 4🌟
Thank you to NetGalley and RBMedia/Recorded Books for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 9, 2025
I've often said that Regency-era novels can be a little hit and miss for me, but one thing I have found that the stories that tend to be hits are those that have a little bit of danger and mystery mixed into the story... and Whispers at Painswick Court certainly had just that! This story introduced us to a lot of characters... leaving us a lot of potential options as to who was responsible for all the mysterious happenings going on. If you enjoy Christian Regency-era novels with just the right blend of romance and intrigue, this is absolutely one you'll want to check out!
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 15, 2025
Beautifully written! Julie Klassen's talented pen swept me away into a regency mystery filled with secrets and romance. Fleeing uncomfortable family dynamics, Anne leaves her family home to visit an old friend. While there, she is offered a position as a temporary nurse. Moving into the old manor house that is said to be haunted, she finds that just about every inhabitant is hiding their own secrets. But which of these will prove the most dangerous?
Ms. Klassen masterfully keeps her readers guessing as she skillfully parcels out clues, and red herrings, to the many mysterious happenings and murder at Painswick Court. As Anne finds herself a suspect, she tries to uncover the identity of the villain. With members of the family and staff all hiding their own secrets, Anne must discover who she can trust before it is too late.
With Klassen's trademark attention to historic detail, I fell in love with the setting, the manor and surrounding village. I also enjoyed the character arcs that included some poignant family moments, moments in which the characters discover that they were valued and loved. But most importantly, I loved Anne and her swoon-worthy hero. This had the perfect blend of mystery and romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ms. Klassen masterfully keeps her readers guessing as she skillfully parcels out clues, and red herrings, to the many mysterious happenings and murder at Painswick Court. As Anne finds herself a suspect, she tries to uncover the identity of the villain. With members of the family and staff all hiding their own secrets, Anne must discover who she can trust before it is too late.
With Klassen's trademark attention to historic detail, I fell in love with the setting, the manor and surrounding village. I also enjoyed the character arcs that included some poignant family moments, moments in which the characters discover that they were valued and loved. But most importantly, I loved Anne and her swoon-worthy hero. This had the perfect blend of mystery and romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 7, 2026
Story Enjoyment Rating: 9.5/10 Christian Faith Rating: 2/3
I’ve just finished listening to Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Classon, and I really enjoyed it. It’s a Christian historical novel that blends romance with mystery and suspense.
The story follows Anne, a surgeon’s daughter. She used to assist her father with medical work, but after he remarries, her stepmother disapproves of her involvement in medicine and is determined to marry her off. Anne is unhappy with this and eventually decides to leave to stay with one of her late mother’s old friends in the village of Painswick.
When she arrives, Anne is asked to stay at Painswick Court to care for Lady Celia, who is unwell. However, Anne has mixed feelings about this arrangement, as she believes Lady Celia once prevented her nephew from marrying Anne’s sister, which caused her sister great distress. Despite her misgivings, Anne agrees to nurse Lady Celia.
As the story unfolds, Anne begins to suspect that something isn’t quite right as secrets emerge about different characters. I can’t say much more without giving anything away, but the mystery and suspense kept me engaged throughout.
I particularly liked that Anne is medically inclined, with experience in nursing and working as an apothecary. The characters were well developed, and I enjoyed the romance.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy as much was the very long denouement — the section after the main resolution felt a bit drawn out. Aside from that, I thought it was well worth reading and I enjoyed this Regency-era Christian romance with mystery and suspense.
I’ve just finished listening to Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Classon, and I really enjoyed it. It’s a Christian historical novel that blends romance with mystery and suspense.
The story follows Anne, a surgeon’s daughter. She used to assist her father with medical work, but after he remarries, her stepmother disapproves of her involvement in medicine and is determined to marry her off. Anne is unhappy with this and eventually decides to leave to stay with one of her late mother’s old friends in the village of Painswick.
When she arrives, Anne is asked to stay at Painswick Court to care for Lady Celia, who is unwell. However, Anne has mixed feelings about this arrangement, as she believes Lady Celia once prevented her nephew from marrying Anne’s sister, which caused her sister great distress. Despite her misgivings, Anne agrees to nurse Lady Celia.
As the story unfolds, Anne begins to suspect that something isn’t quite right as secrets emerge about different characters. I can’t say much more without giving anything away, but the mystery and suspense kept me engaged throughout.
I particularly liked that Anne is medically inclined, with experience in nursing and working as an apothecary. The characters were well developed, and I enjoyed the romance.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy as much was the very long denouement — the section after the main resolution felt a bit drawn out. Aside from that, I thought it was well worth reading and I enjoyed this Regency-era Christian romance with mystery and suspense.
December 30, 2025
"Despite her reservations and resolve to remain single, her chest ached to see the romantic fire in his expression. What would it be like to be loved like that?"
Reading this book was the most pleasant surprise! I'm usually drawn to more "romance-central" plot lines, but the mystery surrounding all of the characters had me reading until late into the night. The writing style reminds me of a cross between Jane Austen and Agatha Christie, which was super fun! I found the ins and outs of medicine during the Regency era fascinating. If you have a medical profession, I think you'll enjoy it even more.
I loved how faith was central to the plot. We can all relate to the tug-of-war that happens when we try to take responsibility for things that only God can control. There were a lot of valuable nuggets of wisdom throughout the pages.
5/5 Stars
Read if you enjoy:
Regency Romance
Mystery & Suspense
Slow Burn Romance
Christian Fiction
*Thank you so much to Bethany House Publishers for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own!
Reading this book was the most pleasant surprise! I'm usually drawn to more "romance-central" plot lines, but the mystery surrounding all of the characters had me reading until late into the night. The writing style reminds me of a cross between Jane Austen and Agatha Christie, which was super fun! I found the ins and outs of medicine during the Regency era fascinating. If you have a medical profession, I think you'll enjoy it even more.
I loved how faith was central to the plot. We can all relate to the tug-of-war that happens when we try to take responsibility for things that only God can control. There were a lot of valuable nuggets of wisdom throughout the pages.
5/5 Stars
Read if you enjoy:
Regency Romance
Mystery & Suspense
Slow Burn Romance
Christian Fiction
*Thank you so much to Bethany House Publishers for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own!
December 8, 2025
I can't be the only one who loves curling up by the fire with a Julie Klassen book, right? Or who stays up until 1:00 a.m. to finish it?
This book is mysterious, intriguing, a little darker, maybe, than her other books. At least, I know I wouldn't read this one again while I'm alone in the middle of the night.
I'm also rather wimpy.
This has a Gothic romance feel, a ghostly visitor, guilt about the past, attempted murder, and many secrets.
Overall I loved this book. The entire story. My four stars come from the lack of growth in the FMC. While I loved her, she did have a lot of growth at the end that seemed to come from nowhere. I didn't actually see that growth appear.
Again, I loved the FMC even before the growth, and would read this story all over again. Just not in the middle of the night.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
This book is mysterious, intriguing, a little darker, maybe, than her other books. At least, I know I wouldn't read this one again while I'm alone in the middle of the night.
I'm also rather wimpy.
This has a Gothic romance feel, a ghostly visitor, guilt about the past, attempted murder, and many secrets.
Overall I loved this book. The entire story. My four stars come from the lack of growth in the FMC. While I loved her, she did have a lot of growth at the end that seemed to come from nowhere. I didn't actually see that growth appear.
Again, I loved the FMC even before the growth, and would read this story all over again. Just not in the middle of the night.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
December 16, 2025
4.5
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the setting, the characters, the mystery. I also really appreciated Klassen's references to Jane Austen's Mansfield Park throughout the story.
The one thing that threw me, though, was how it got weirdly religious towards the end. It felt shoehorned in for no real reason.
Elizabeth Jasicki was an excellent narrator for this story. I honestly requested this book largely because she was the narrator, and I was not disappointed. I particularly liked how she voiced Lady Celia.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBMedia/Recorded Books for access to this ARC audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the setting, the characters, the mystery. I also really appreciated Klassen's references to Jane Austen's Mansfield Park throughout the story.
The one thing that threw me, though, was how it got weirdly religious towards the end. It felt shoehorned in for no real reason.
Elizabeth Jasicki was an excellent narrator for this story. I honestly requested this book largely because she was the narrator, and I was not disappointed. I particularly liked how she voiced Lady Celia.
Thank you to NetGalley and RBMedia/Recorded Books for access to this ARC audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
December 3, 2025
Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen was narrated by Elizabeth Jasicki. I chose to listen to this book, and I loved the narrator. Julie Klassen wrote a beautiful, mysterious tale of “who-dunnit”. Her realistic historical fiction was a delight with all the details I enjoy. I love her writing style and wonderful characters. I felt like I was there. If you’re looking for a good, clean historical novel, this one’s for you.
Thanks, RB Media via NetGalley.
Thanks, RB Media via NetGalley.
December 8, 2025
Julie Klassen’s books always feel like the perfect thing to curl up with on a winter day, and this one follows suit, especially with its touch of gothic suspense. As usual, I found myself enjoying all of the characters, even the side ones. The story was engaging and had that gentle spiritual encouragement I always appreciate in her work.
My only letdown was the way the main romance wrapped up. The slow build was lovely, but it unfortunately fell flat for me. I kept waiting for THE MOMENT (you know that swoony, heartfelt moment we usually get?), even when I thought “okay, this must be it,” it wasn’t. Instead the declaration of devotion was squeezed into the final page or so, making it feel a bit rushed and tacked on.
Overall though, it was a cozy, atmospheric read that I really enjoyed.
My only letdown was the way the main romance wrapped up. The slow build was lovely, but it unfortunately fell flat for me. I kept waiting for THE MOMENT (you know that swoony, heartfelt moment we usually get?), even when I thought “okay, this must be it,” it wasn’t. Instead the declaration of devotion was squeezed into the final page or so, making it feel a bit rushed and tacked on.
Overall though, it was a cozy, atmospheric read that I really enjoyed.
January 11, 2026
Julie Klassen is an exceptional author and her newest novel, Whispers at Painswick Court displays her talent. I was wrapped from the get-go. The mystery, suspense and romance mingled together for an intense, flowing story that wouldn’t let me go. She is at the top of her writing journey and I highly recommend this book!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own.
December 25, 2025
I love all of Julie Klassen's novels and this one intrigued me because it involved a mystery. She excels in weaving a delightful Regency romance - using period language, detail descriptions and a wonderful setting. Add to that the twist of suspense and this novel is a definite must-read. Heartbreak, deception, and family intrigue all intertwine to make this hard to put down!
December 8, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up. Another great story by Julie Klassen!! She is such a fabulous writer of Gothic romance mystery. Loved the setting, I so want to visit there now. Guessed pretty early on who did it, but still a great book. Her books remind me so much of Jane Austen and a mix of the Bronte sisters. Highly, highly recommend!
December 28, 2025
Julie Klassen is always a win for regency era books. This story, while not my favorite, kept my interest to the end. I enjoyed seeing the characters open up as the book went on. I also loved the herbal apothecary aspect!
4 stars.
4 stars.
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