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The Strawberry House
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Expected 4 Mar 26Preorder a BRAND NEW utterly gorgeous historical novel from the BESTSELLING author of The Butterfly Garden
But the arrival of four strangers – among them a gifted artist determined to paint Camilla’s sister Mabel – soon shatters the fragile peace of the manor. In the shimmering heat, desires are stirred and one impulsive act will set in motion a tragedy that echoes for decades.
1952: Haunted by war and the memory of that long-ago summer, the last thing Henry wants is to return to Montagu Manor. But when a photograph arrives, showing the painting he thought destroyed – the portrait that ruined so many lives – he is drawn back into the past.
Now, Henry and Camilla must face the secrets that shaped them, and the love that refuses to fade.
Praise for Rachel
'Exquisite storytelling. Two timelines, two poignant love stories, one heartbreaking choice. A secret kept for many years is slowly revealed against the breathtaking backdrop of the butterfly garden. Loved it.' Elena Collins
'A fabulous dual timeline mystery with a tale of lost love and family ties. I was totally captivated and raced through to the end!' Clare Marchant
'A charming read, expertly plotted and beautifully researched. An intriguing dual time story, exquisitely told.' Jenni Keer
'Enticing and atmospheric... Packed with love and mystery that will keep you wanting more from the first page to the last' Lauren North
'A wonderful escape... I adored the characters, the headiness of their first loves, and vulnerabilities as they hoped for their own happily-ever-afters' Jenny Ashcroft
‘I was hooked on this book practically from the first paragraph.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Beautifully written, intriguing characters, lost loves, betrayal and lies. Fabulous and highly recommended.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Such a heartwarming story which I devoured in one sitting.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘What a brilliant book! I loved how it dipped through many histories and kept it flipping seamlessly through many peoples histories.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Beautifully written, I loved the unexpected twist at the end. A definite five stars from me.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This novel really holds you fast, all the way to a lovely twist of an ending that warms the cockles of your heart. Just the ticket for the perfect escapist read.
1938:
But the arrival of four strangers – among them a gifted artist determined to paint Camilla’s sister Mabel – soon shatters the fragile peace of the manor. In the shimmering heat, desires are stirred and one impulsive act will set in motion a tragedy that echoes for decades.
1952: Haunted by war and the memory of that long-ago summer, the last thing Henry wants is to return to Montagu Manor. But when a photograph arrives, showing the painting he thought destroyed – the portrait that ruined so many lives – he is drawn back into the past.
Now, Henry and Camilla must face the secrets that shaped them, and the love that refuses to fade.
Praise for Rachel
'Exquisite storytelling. Two timelines, two poignant love stories, one heartbreaking choice. A secret kept for many years is slowly revealed against the breathtaking backdrop of the butterfly garden. Loved it.' Elena Collins
'A fabulous dual timeline mystery with a tale of lost love and family ties. I was totally captivated and raced through to the end!' Clare Marchant
'A charming read, expertly plotted and beautifully researched. An intriguing dual time story, exquisitely told.' Jenni Keer
'Enticing and atmospheric... Packed with love and mystery that will keep you wanting more from the first page to the last' Lauren North
'A wonderful escape... I adored the characters, the headiness of their first loves, and vulnerabilities as they hoped for their own happily-ever-afters' Jenny Ashcroft
‘I was hooked on this book practically from the first paragraph.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Beautifully written, intriguing characters, lost loves, betrayal and lies. Fabulous and highly recommended.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Such a heartwarming story which I devoured in one sitting.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘What a brilliant book! I loved how it dipped through many histories and kept it flipping seamlessly through many peoples histories.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Beautifully written, I loved the unexpected twist at the end. A definite five stars from me.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This novel really holds you fast, all the way to a lovely twist of an ending that warms the cockles of your heart. Just the ticket for the perfect escapist read.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 4, 2026
1 person is currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Burton
21 books307 followersRachel Burton is the bestselling author of historical timeslip novels and has previously written romantic comedies.
Rachel was born in Cambridge and grew up in a house full of books and records. She has read obsessively since she first realised those black squiggles on the pages that lined her parents’ bookshelves were actually words and it has gone down in family history that any time something interesting happened, she missed it because she had her nose in a book.
After reading for a degree in Classics and another in English Literature she accidentally fell into a career in law but her love of books prevailed as she realised that she wanted to slip into imaginary worlds of her own making. She eventually managed to write her first novel on her lunch breaks.
She is obsessed with old houses and the secrets they keep, with abandoned gardens and locked gates, with family histories and surprising revelations, and with the outcomes of those surprises many generations later.
She lives in Yorkshire with her husband, a variety of cats and far too many books. By writing novels she now has an excuse for her head being forever in the clouds.
Find her on Instagram as @RachelBWriter, subscribe to her newsletter rachelburton.substack.com or website rachelburtonwrites.com
Rachel was born in Cambridge and grew up in a house full of books and records. She has read obsessively since she first realised those black squiggles on the pages that lined her parents’ bookshelves were actually words and it has gone down in family history that any time something interesting happened, she missed it because she had her nose in a book.
After reading for a degree in Classics and another in English Literature she accidentally fell into a career in law but her love of books prevailed as she realised that she wanted to slip into imaginary worlds of her own making. She eventually managed to write her first novel on her lunch breaks.
She is obsessed with old houses and the secrets they keep, with abandoned gardens and locked gates, with family histories and surprising revelations, and with the outcomes of those surprises many generations later.
She lives in Yorkshire with her husband, a variety of cats and far too many books. By writing novels she now has an excuse for her head being forever in the clouds.
Find her on Instagram as @RachelBWriter, subscribe to her newsletter rachelburton.substack.com or website rachelburtonwrites.com
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨️ ARC REVIEW ✨️
The Strawberry House by Rachel Burton
Publication date: March 4th 2026
Thoughts
This was such a beautiful heartfelt read, I was hooked from the first chapter, the writing style, the setting it makes you feel like you've in the story itself. It's set between two timelines, which was another factor that kept me invested in how everything will unfold. I really enjoyed the romance, I highly recommend this if you love second chance with a dash of mystery and reads where the house itself gives main character feels
Plot Summary
In 1938, Camilla Kerrigan struggles to balance family duty with her longing for independence at her family’s Oxford manor. When her brother returns with a thoughtful, uncertain friend named Henry, she finds a rare connection—one soon overshadowed by the arrival of four strangers. As passions ignite during summer, a single reckless decision triggers consequences that will linger for years. By 1952, the war has changed everything. When evidence resurfaces of a painting once believed lost—an image tied to that fateful summer—Henry is compelled to return to the manor and confront the buried secrets, unresolved grief, and enduring love that still bind him to Camilla.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC
My Bookstagram
The Strawberry House by Rachel Burton
Publication date: March 4th 2026
Thoughts
This was such a beautiful heartfelt read, I was hooked from the first chapter, the writing style, the setting it makes you feel like you've in the story itself. It's set between two timelines, which was another factor that kept me invested in how everything will unfold. I really enjoyed the romance, I highly recommend this if you love second chance with a dash of mystery and reads where the house itself gives main character feels
Plot Summary
In 1938, Camilla Kerrigan struggles to balance family duty with her longing for independence at her family’s Oxford manor. When her brother returns with a thoughtful, uncertain friend named Henry, she finds a rare connection—one soon overshadowed by the arrival of four strangers. As passions ignite during summer, a single reckless decision triggers consequences that will linger for years. By 1952, the war has changed everything. When evidence resurfaces of a painting once believed lost—an image tied to that fateful summer—Henry is compelled to return to the manor and confront the buried secrets, unresolved grief, and enduring love that still bind him to Camilla.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC
My Bookstagram
February 2, 2026
The Strawberry House is a compelling romantic mystery. At the heart of the story is Montagu Manor, an arts and crafts house with some rooms designed by William Morris and a gorgeous garden set near a river. Home to the Kerrigan family, who stay there during the summer months. The story unfolds over a dual timeline, alternating between the summer of 1938 and the spring of 1952.
In the summer of 1938, the whole Kerrigan family is set to arrive for their annual holiday and revue. It’s going to be an extra full house this year as son Anthony, has brought his friend Henry to stay and a group of artists who call themselves the Kensington Circle are also coming. Led by artist Lionel Lombard, who is keen to see Morris’ work and paint the eldest Kerrigan daughter Mabel. Their arrival causes tensions within the family as they take over the house.
Nearly twenty years later in post World War II, Britain, we learn that there was a fire in Montagu Manor and it’s now in the process of being rebuilt and renovated. Lionel Lombard went missing after the fire and it was thought his last painting The Faerie Queene was lost in the blaze. As always Burton’s research thorough. She really captured the feel of the time with a sense of duty, wealth and gender roles.
I felt for Anthony and Henry who were duty bound to follow in their respective family business, despite their talents and passions lying elsewhere. I was also enraged on behalf of Camilla, the middle daughter, whose father denied her the chance to go to Oxford to study as she’s a woman and then again post war as she as she was no longer able to work in the capacity she was able to during the war.
I enjoyed the romance between Camilla and Henry. Both were interesting characters, who were both humble and wanted a different things to their family expectations. It was interesting to see the impact of them being from different social classes. The mystery was engaging and I enjoyed sitting back and watching it all play out. For people who enjoy second chance romances, a bit of mystery and stories where the house could be a main character.
In the summer of 1938, the whole Kerrigan family is set to arrive for their annual holiday and revue. It’s going to be an extra full house this year as son Anthony, has brought his friend Henry to stay and a group of artists who call themselves the Kensington Circle are also coming. Led by artist Lionel Lombard, who is keen to see Morris’ work and paint the eldest Kerrigan daughter Mabel. Their arrival causes tensions within the family as they take over the house.
Nearly twenty years later in post World War II, Britain, we learn that there was a fire in Montagu Manor and it’s now in the process of being rebuilt and renovated. Lionel Lombard went missing after the fire and it was thought his last painting The Faerie Queene was lost in the blaze. As always Burton’s research thorough. She really captured the feel of the time with a sense of duty, wealth and gender roles.
I felt for Anthony and Henry who were duty bound to follow in their respective family business, despite their talents and passions lying elsewhere. I was also enraged on behalf of Camilla, the middle daughter, whose father denied her the chance to go to Oxford to study as she’s a woman and then again post war as she as she was no longer able to work in the capacity she was able to during the war.
I enjoyed the romance between Camilla and Henry. Both were interesting characters, who were both humble and wanted a different things to their family expectations. It was interesting to see the impact of them being from different social classes. The mystery was engaging and I enjoyed sitting back and watching it all play out. For people who enjoy second chance romances, a bit of mystery and stories where the house could be a main character.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Strawberry House by Rachel Burton is a powerful historical novel set over two time periods. It has its’ roots in facts as we hear about William Morris and the pre-Raphaelite artists. The action is set in 1938 and 1952. These alternate.
The summer of 1938 is a defining and devastating summer. Lives would be altered forever. No one would ever be the same again as a tragic accident affects all those involved.
It began as a summer of promise but ended as a summer of tragedy.
It was a summer where new friendships were forged. Lives took new trajectories as characters made decisions about their futures.
Between the two time periods was World War II. Here lives were changed again – sometimes forever lost.
1938 saw women’s lives on the edge of change. Old fashioned paternalistic attitudes had squashed women but with the war, came freedom. A female character believes “If women can crack enemy code…we can do anything we… want.”
In contrast we hear the thoughts of a male character after the war: “Go home… Marry a nice man, have some children, be happy.” “Because that was all women were good for again now that the war was over.” A male dominated society wanted to put women back in a clearly labelled box: ‘family.’
In 1938 parents were still planning their children’s futures. When characters break free from these expectations, sparks fly.
Grief has affected all. “Grief from one loss after another had eaten her up until she’d lost sight of her hopes and dreams, lost sight of herself.” A character has wallowed until a face from the past awakens her spirit again.
The Strawberry House was a comprehensive novel about friends and family, grief, love and life. It is a powerful tale.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The summer of 1938 is a defining and devastating summer. Lives would be altered forever. No one would ever be the same again as a tragic accident affects all those involved.
It began as a summer of promise but ended as a summer of tragedy.
It was a summer where new friendships were forged. Lives took new trajectories as characters made decisions about their futures.
Between the two time periods was World War II. Here lives were changed again – sometimes forever lost.
1938 saw women’s lives on the edge of change. Old fashioned paternalistic attitudes had squashed women but with the war, came freedom. A female character believes “If women can crack enemy code…we can do anything we… want.”
In contrast we hear the thoughts of a male character after the war: “Go home… Marry a nice man, have some children, be happy.” “Because that was all women were good for again now that the war was over.” A male dominated society wanted to put women back in a clearly labelled box: ‘family.’
In 1938 parents were still planning their children’s futures. When characters break free from these expectations, sparks fly.
Grief has affected all. “Grief from one loss after another had eaten her up until she’d lost sight of her hopes and dreams, lost sight of herself.” A character has wallowed until a face from the past awakens her spirit again.
The Strawberry House was a comprehensive novel about friends and family, grief, love and life. It is a powerful tale.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Strawberry House is one of those novels that sweeps you up from the very first page. Rachel Burton blends dual timelines with such grace that moving between 1938 and 1952 feels effortless, each era enriching the other as the truth slowly comes into focus.
The 1938 storyline is especially captivating. Camilla, caught between duty and desire, is a wonderfully drawn heroine—thoughtful, restless, and quietly yearning for a life beyond the expectations placed upon her. The arrival of Henry and the group of strangers at Montagu Manor brings a simmering tension to the long, hot summer, and Burton captures that sense of possibility and danger with real elegance. You can feel the heat, the longing, and the subtle shifts that lead to a tragedy no one sees coming.
In 1952, Henry’s return to the manor is steeped in melancholy and unresolved emotion. The resurfacing of the portrait he believed destroyed is such a powerful catalyst, pulling him back into memories he’s tried to bury. His chapters are tender, reflective, and full of the ache of a love that never truly faded.
Burton excels at atmosphere—Oxford’s manor houses, the artistic world of the 1930s, the post‑war quiet of the 1950s—and she threads it all with secrets that unravel at just the right pace. The emotional payoff is both heartbreaking and deeply satisfying.
A sweeping, evocative novel about love, art, and the shadows cast by the past. Fans of Kate Morton and Lucinda Riley will feel right at home.
With thanks to Rachel Burton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The 1938 storyline is especially captivating. Camilla, caught between duty and desire, is a wonderfully drawn heroine—thoughtful, restless, and quietly yearning for a life beyond the expectations placed upon her. The arrival of Henry and the group of strangers at Montagu Manor brings a simmering tension to the long, hot summer, and Burton captures that sense of possibility and danger with real elegance. You can feel the heat, the longing, and the subtle shifts that lead to a tragedy no one sees coming.
In 1952, Henry’s return to the manor is steeped in melancholy and unresolved emotion. The resurfacing of the portrait he believed destroyed is such a powerful catalyst, pulling him back into memories he’s tried to bury. His chapters are tender, reflective, and full of the ache of a love that never truly faded.
Burton excels at atmosphere—Oxford’s manor houses, the artistic world of the 1930s, the post‑war quiet of the 1950s—and she threads it all with secrets that unravel at just the right pace. The emotional payoff is both heartbreaking and deeply satisfying.
A sweeping, evocative novel about love, art, and the shadows cast by the past. Fans of Kate Morton and Lucinda Riley will feel right at home.
With thanks to Rachel Burton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have read a few of Rachel Burton's more recent books, and this sounded so delicious, just from the title (plus the cover was pretty irresistible, too!) I just had to read it!
Set in both the pre-WW2 and post-WW2 years, The Strawberry House is a story focusing on a tragedy at Montagu Manor, or more enticingly called, The Strawberry House in 1938.
Two very different souls meet there and fall in love, but the war and the aforementioned tragedy push them apart for fifteen years, when a chance assignment for Henry brings him back to Camilla.
I loved the whimsy of having a group of artists turn up for an entire summer at the Manor, and the behaviour of one plays fully to the Diva nature that many assign to successful creative types.
There was also much angst described as Camilla is a woman born into a genteel family, with dreams of higher education, whereas her father has no interest in allowing his intelligent daughter that chance because that's not what ladies do. And Henry is facing similar struggles but from a different point. His background is not like Camilla's. In fact, his father runs a factory and wants Henry at the head of it, but Henry dreams of becoming a journalist, and his Oxford education is a stepping stone to him realising his dreams.
I was swept away with this book, turning each page eagerly, and loved the added mystery element to it with a lost treasure that needs finding.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
Set in both the pre-WW2 and post-WW2 years, The Strawberry House is a story focusing on a tragedy at Montagu Manor, or more enticingly called, The Strawberry House in 1938.
Two very different souls meet there and fall in love, but the war and the aforementioned tragedy push them apart for fifteen years, when a chance assignment for Henry brings him back to Camilla.
I loved the whimsy of having a group of artists turn up for an entire summer at the Manor, and the behaviour of one plays fully to the Diva nature that many assign to successful creative types.
There was also much angst described as Camilla is a woman born into a genteel family, with dreams of higher education, whereas her father has no interest in allowing his intelligent daughter that chance because that's not what ladies do. And Henry is facing similar struggles but from a different point. His background is not like Camilla's. In fact, his father runs a factory and wants Henry at the head of it, but Henry dreams of becoming a journalist, and his Oxford education is a stepping stone to him realising his dreams.
I was swept away with this book, turning each page eagerly, and loved the added mystery element to it with a lost treasure that needs finding.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my first book by Rachel Burton. I've been wanting to read The Butterfly Garden but haven't managed to get a copy as yet (I prefer physical copies as I love the feel of turning the pages). I also see from the notes at the end that she has another book as well which I shall be looking for as well.
What a wonderful story Rachel has built here, switching between 1938 and 1952 timelines as the story unfolds.
Her main characters, Henry and Camilla, are so relatable and engaging. In 1938, Camilla's brother Anthony, brings Henry home with him to spend the summer at Montagu Manor. Henry is from a middle-class family, whilst Camilla is from the upper-class, where girls are still expected to marry and have a family and not worry about an education. Camilla wants nothing more than to go to Oxford like her brother did, but her father won't hear of it.
A group of strangers arrives to spend the summer as well, with one being a well known artist who wants to paint Camilla's sister Mabel. Things don't go smoothly, there's a fire and tragedy strikes.
1952 - Henry receives a photo of a painting in the post - the painting of Mabel that was thought to have been lost in the fire. It brings Camilla back into his life, along with all the memories and hopes and dreams from that long ago summer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
What a wonderful story Rachel has built here, switching between 1938 and 1952 timelines as the story unfolds.
Her main characters, Henry and Camilla, are so relatable and engaging. In 1938, Camilla's brother Anthony, brings Henry home with him to spend the summer at Montagu Manor. Henry is from a middle-class family, whilst Camilla is from the upper-class, where girls are still expected to marry and have a family and not worry about an education. Camilla wants nothing more than to go to Oxford like her brother did, but her father won't hear of it.
A group of strangers arrives to spend the summer as well, with one being a well known artist who wants to paint Camilla's sister Mabel. Things don't go smoothly, there's a fire and tragedy strikes.
1952 - Henry receives a photo of a painting in the post - the painting of Mabel that was thought to have been lost in the fire. It brings Camilla back into his life, along with all the memories and hopes and dreams from that long ago summer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
1938: For Camilla Kerrigan, life at her family's Oxford manor is a delicate balancing act - between duty to her family and a yearning for something more. When her brother Anthony returns for the summer, bringing with him a new friend, Camilla recognises a kindred spirit. Like her, Henry is thoughtful, restless and uncertain of his future. But the arrival of four strangers - among them a gifted determined to paint Camilla's sister Mabel- soon shatters the peace of the manor.
1952: Haunted by war and the memory of that long-ago summer, the last thing Henry wants is to return to Montagu Manor. But when a photograph arrives, showing the painting he thought was destroyed - the portrait that ruined so many lives - he is drawn back to the past.
I do like a story that has a dual timeline, and this story did not disappoint. I was pulled into this story by the end of the first chapter. It has been descriptively written. After the summer of 1938, the lives of the people who were at Montagu Manor would never be the same again I loved the character in this book, I did prefer the story set in 1938 , but overall, this is z well-written story about second chances.
Published 4th March 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RachelBurton for my ARC of #TheStrawberryHouse in exchange for an honest review.
1952: Haunted by war and the memory of that long-ago summer, the last thing Henry wants is to return to Montagu Manor. But when a photograph arrives, showing the painting he thought was destroyed - the portrait that ruined so many lives - he is drawn back to the past.
I do like a story that has a dual timeline, and this story did not disappoint. I was pulled into this story by the end of the first chapter. It has been descriptively written. After the summer of 1938, the lives of the people who were at Montagu Manor would never be the same again I loved the character in this book, I did prefer the story set in 1938 , but overall, this is z well-written story about second chances.
Published 4th March 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RachelBurton for my ARC of #TheStrawberryHouse in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2026
I have read all of Rachel Burton’s books and this one lived up to my expectations. It is historical fiction set in 1938 and 1952. We are introduced to the Kerrigan family who live in Montagu House. Henry and Camilla are the main characters in the story, but I found it easy to engage with all the characters, even Lionel the artist became likeable after the war.
In 1938, the adult children invite friends to stay with them for the summer. One set, known as the Kensington Circle are artistic and a bit wild and are soon confined to the East Wing.
The family is very much upper class with upper class values and attitudes. Girls are meant to marry and have children. Love doesn’t feature. Camilla would love to go to Oxford, but her father won’t hear of it. She soon becomes involved with Henry, her brother’s friend from Oxford.
Fast forward to 1952 and we find out what happened to them all. Did they all follow their father’s expectations for them? Did they choose for themselves? Do get a copy and find out.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel Burton for an arc of this super story.
In 1938, the adult children invite friends to stay with them for the summer. One set, known as the Kensington Circle are artistic and a bit wild and are soon confined to the East Wing.
The family is very much upper class with upper class values and attitudes. Girls are meant to marry and have children. Love doesn’t feature. Camilla would love to go to Oxford, but her father won’t hear of it. She soon becomes involved with Henry, her brother’s friend from Oxford.
Fast forward to 1952 and we find out what happened to them all. Did they all follow their father’s expectations for them? Did they choose for themselves? Do get a copy and find out.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel Burton for an arc of this super story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a novel of change the attitudes before the second World War the class restrictions and the feelings and changes that were to happen after the war
Henry has been invited to the Manor of his friend from Oxford he comes from a family that owns,a factory and worries that he will not fit he falls in love with one of the daughters of the house who herself is struggling to fit into the life her parents had.
There are various relationships occurring during the summer party all of which are between people who would probably not normally be together.
A fire at the Manor ends the party and the people separate .
The novel continues telling Henry story as he refuses to do as his father wants and does not run the family factory.
Camilla eventually gets in contact and they both find that yes they can be together now despite the difficulties of the class differences that exist
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for my arc copy
Henry has been invited to the Manor of his friend from Oxford he comes from a family that owns,a factory and worries that he will not fit he falls in love with one of the daughters of the house who herself is struggling to fit into the life her parents had.
There are various relationships occurring during the summer party all of which are between people who would probably not normally be together.
A fire at the Manor ends the party and the people separate .
The novel continues telling Henry story as he refuses to do as his father wants and does not run the family factory.
Camilla eventually gets in contact and they both find that yes they can be together now despite the difficulties of the class differences that exist
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The summer of 1938 was infamous to the Oxford area as the year the east wing of the local manor house burnt down in mysterious circumstances. By 1952 the manor house is being rebuilt and renovated and the Oxford Mail wants to cover the renovation while also solving the 1938 mystery. Henry is tasked with covering the story, his editor little suspecting that Henry was a visitor at the manor house in 1938. The novel runs the 1938 and 1952 storylines alongside each other.
I was not sure about the historical settings initially, as I am not a particular fan of historical fiction (particularly those that reference war). However. This is just a wonderful story. I have read previous books by Rachel Burton and this is up to her usual standard. A layered story that builds and builds as it goes along, more and more information being added. It is a glorious story that I would thoroughly recommend to anyone.
I was not sure about the historical settings initially, as I am not a particular fan of historical fiction (particularly those that reference war). However. This is just a wonderful story. I have read previous books by Rachel Burton and this is up to her usual standard. A layered story that builds and builds as it goes along, more and more information being added. It is a glorious story that I would thoroughly recommend to anyone.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the eARC.
What a wonderful book this is, featuring Montague House and the Kerrigan family. It's set in dual timelines, 1938 and 1952. Anthony Kerrigan has brought his friend Henry to stay for the summer of 1938, when the whole Kerrigan family is there. A group of artists, the Kensington Circle, is also due to visit, the leader slated to paint a portrait of Mabel, the youngest daughter.
When Henry meets Camilla, the eldest daughter, he's immediately attracted to her, not realizing she is to him as well.
When a fire breaks out at Montegue House, everyone scatters, believing the painting to be destroyed.
In 1952 Henry and Camilla finally find each other again.
The painting was discovered, to everyone's joy, and
the ending of the book is heatwarming, I loved it!
What a wonderful book this is, featuring Montague House and the Kerrigan family. It's set in dual timelines, 1938 and 1952. Anthony Kerrigan has brought his friend Henry to stay for the summer of 1938, when the whole Kerrigan family is there. A group of artists, the Kensington Circle, is also due to visit, the leader slated to paint a portrait of Mabel, the youngest daughter.
When Henry meets Camilla, the eldest daughter, he's immediately attracted to her, not realizing she is to him as well.
When a fire breaks out at Montegue House, everyone scatters, believing the painting to be destroyed.
In 1952 Henry and Camilla finally find each other again.
The painting was discovered, to everyone's joy, and
the ending of the book is heatwarming, I loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you are a William Morris fan you will adore both the cover and the history of this book, The Strawberry House draws inspiration from the history of Morris' Oxford manor and the drama and scandal of that era.
This is a story split between the events of a summer at the Kerrigan family home in 1938 as the country tips towards another war, and how the young characters struggle with their dynamics within the house, first loves, and the impending duties of family expectations as well as war.
The later years show the friends reconnecting and attempting to make sense of the events of that summer and the consequences of what came next.
I particularly enjoyed the mystery of the painting and the bond between the characters. If you are interested in art and the arts and crafts era this is a book that you can just escape into.
This is a story split between the events of a summer at the Kerrigan family home in 1938 as the country tips towards another war, and how the young characters struggle with their dynamics within the house, first loves, and the impending duties of family expectations as well as war.
The later years show the friends reconnecting and attempting to make sense of the events of that summer and the consequences of what came next.
I particularly enjoyed the mystery of the painting and the bond between the characters. If you are interested in art and the arts and crafts era this is a book that you can just escape into.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Welcome to The Strawberry House and what an eventful story this is! Following the Kerrigan family over the span of Summer 1938 to Spring 1952, a lot can, and did happen over that time.
I think my favourite character in this is Camilla, her sister Mabel always got the attention but it's Camilla that stole the show for me. She's always looking out for her sister but also is also determined in herself to get what she wants from life. Knowing she doesn't want her parents to pick a suitable husband - she wants to find her own.
I really like Henry also, a kind soul. I like how he shows his raw self to her and shares his dreams with Camilla and they look for a way together to make them happen.
It's nice to know that Montagu Manor is based on a real place, would be nice to visit one day! I also love the William Morris link, I love his designs and the cover of this is stunning!
I think my favourite character in this is Camilla, her sister Mabel always got the attention but it's Camilla that stole the show for me. She's always looking out for her sister but also is also determined in herself to get what she wants from life. Knowing she doesn't want her parents to pick a suitable husband - she wants to find her own.
I really like Henry also, a kind soul. I like how he shows his raw self to her and shares his dreams with Camilla and they look for a way together to make them happen.
It's nice to know that Montagu Manor is based on a real place, would be nice to visit one day! I also love the William Morris link, I love his designs and the cover of this is stunning!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another terrific read by Rachel Burton. A fascinating dual storyline set in the late 1930's and the early 1950's, the readers meet the Kerrigan family who reside at Montague Manor. When a family member invites a group of artist for the summer, disaster follows. After a fire destroys a wing of the house, one of the family's daughters is killed and a portrait of her disappears. Jumping to the later time, the reader discovers what really happened that summer and to the lost painting. The description of the house designed by William Morris is fabulous. I highly recommend this book, particularly for fans of Kate Morton and Lucinda Riley. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review it.
February 17, 2026
Strawberry House is a new author for me. It was a delightful read. I enjoy historical fiction, and this book did not disappoint. It was ultimately a story of love and loss, and the main house which was the scenery for much of the story felt like a character in the book. It described pre and post war England, one particular high society family, and a love story. I was rooting for the characters, some were more entertaining than others. It was such a nice read. Sometimes I find historical fiction to be too dense, but that was not the case here. I was compelled to finish and was satisfied with the ending. I recommend and will read this author again. I’m glad this book found me. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was the first book I’ve read by Burton, and I really enjoyed it. I think the dual timelines and POVs helped allow the story to unfold in a way that felt natural. I did find that some moments felt a bit repetitive, but it wasn’t too bad in the grand scheme of things. The mystery surrounding the manor was much less dramatic than rumors thought, but the tragedy of it and how it impacted everyone allowed for the intrigue to grow. The timing of the story being framed with the war, helped to showcase how overwhelmed the primary characters were with everything happening in the world. The ending of the story wrapped up in a way that felt satisfying without being too perfect.
Thank you to the publisher for providing this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for providing this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a dual time line book. It starts with Henry in 1952, writing about the renovation of Montagu Manor. However, Henry was there in 1938, when the east wing burnt down and everyone’s life changed. It is interesting reading about these young people , the effect of parental expectations and the role of class and gender in 1938. Then the war intervenes, and people and expectations have changed. It is also a book about healing and moving on for the better. The characters were very credible, and I particularly liked Henry and Camille for their gentle romance, despite feeling awkward and an outsider all the time. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for sharing this author with me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I do love a dual storyline. This one follows the events of a summer in which a group of artists join a wealthy family in their manor house on the Thames. A disastrous fire in which a spectacular unfinished painting was thought lost, resulted in a fracturing of the family and friends until a newspaper article raked up the ashes of that disaster. Well written, likeable characters, easy to read. Enjoyed it very much. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25 stars
The Strawberry House is a dual timeline historical fiction story set in the years leading up to as well as several years after WWII. While there are several characters involved in the earlier storyline, the later storyline is primarily focused on just two of them, Camilla and Henry. Add in a second chance romance, a mystery, class issues, and family expectations -- this was a book that was hard to put down.
This is the first book I've read of Rachel Burton's; it won't be my last!Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC edition of this book.
The Strawberry House is a dual timeline historical fiction story set in the years leading up to as well as several years after WWII. While there are several characters involved in the earlier storyline, the later storyline is primarily focused on just two of them, Camilla and Henry. Add in a second chance romance, a mystery, class issues, and family expectations -- this was a book that was hard to put down.
This is the first book I've read of Rachel Burton's; it won't be my last!Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC edition of this book.
February 19, 2026
Another wonderful read from Rachel Burton. Love, loss & redemption beautifully told in time-lapse over pre & post war times. The house at the centre of the story is near Kelmscott Manor which is close to where I live and was the home of William Morris (well worth a visit). Although The Strawberry House is a fictional house it is so well described that it could very well be real. The characters and area in the timeframes are all so well represented you are swept up in the story end up feeling joyous in the end. A truly brilliant story that stays with you for a long time after.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this story. It is a dual-timeline novel told in the years 1938 and 1952. In 1938, Camilla Kerrigan meets Henry and falls in love with him. Even though they love each other, they are separated. They meet again in 1952 and are still in love. Together, they solve a mystery related to the summer they met and renew their love. This story is very well-written and kept my attention right from the beginning. I plan to read more by this author.
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for the chance to post my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for the chance to post my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A dual timeline love story with a sprinkling of mystery spanning 1938 and 1952. Forbidden love, long buried secrets and second chances and I absolutely adored the William Morris references. Just the perfect romantic read to get fully swept up in on these rainy days. Beautifully researched, believable and well written. It kept me engaged and invested all the way through.
The cover is stunning too 😍
The cover is stunning too 😍
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fantastically interesting romance with an amazing dual-timeline plot teasing out a mystery while detailing the romance here. the characters are impeccable and the writing is goodl. would definitely recommend this. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My thanks to Net Galley, Boldwood, and the personal invitation I received to review this arc.
Let me begin by saying this was a very good and well written book. The 1938 and 1952 timelines connected Camilla and Henry's story well. Great family drama. My only complaints, first, after the first 1938 to 1952 jump i read of a fire and 2 deaths mentioned bur nothing more explaining about those events till way later in the book. Things were tied up nice. Do recommend.
Let me begin by saying this was a very good and well written book. The 1938 and 1952 timelines connected Camilla and Henry's story well. Great family drama. My only complaints, first, after the first 1938 to 1952 jump i read of a fire and 2 deaths mentioned bur nothing more explaining about those events till way later in the book. Things were tied up nice. Do recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Camilla first meets Henry when he comes to her family home with her brother. Four more strangers come for that summer and soon everything changes.
This book is told thru dual timelines. It’s a nice mystery with some romance that revolves around what happened that one summer.
This book is told thru dual timelines. It’s a nice mystery with some romance that revolves around what happened that one summer.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A delightful dual timeline which I got lost in right away. The story was very interesting and immersive. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
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