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Edwardian Brides #3
A Refuge at Highland Hall
In this third and final book in the Edwardian Brides Series, you’ll be swept away to England and France in 1915 as the Ramsey family and their staff and friends face the dramatic challenges and losses of World War One, yet they also experience the hope and triumph that comes as they put their trust in God to carry them through. Penny Ramsey helps the family welcome a group of orphaned children to Highland Hall, but she soon discovers caring for them is more difficult than she’d expected. She writes to Alex Goodwin, a daring British pilot, who chases German zeppelins across the sky over the Front Line in France, and longs for the day she will see him again. You’ll be delighted by two pure and heartwarming romances: Penny and Alex, and Lydia Chambers and Marius Ritter, a lady’s maid and a prisoner of war. But most of all I hope you’ll be inspired by the characters’ examples of trusting God through the trials they face.
Fans of “Downton Abbey” will find many of the same elements in this series: A wealthy, aristocratic family living on a large English country estate with romance, conflicts, and family drama; and loyal servants with troubles and heartaches of their own.
Fans of “Downton Abbey” will find many of the same elements in this series: A wealthy, aristocratic family living on a large English country estate with romance, conflicts, and family drama; and loyal servants with troubles and heartaches of their own.
338 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2015
81 people are currently reading
1737 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Turansky
33 books1,641 followersBestselling Author Carrie Turansky writes inspirational historical and contemporary novels and novellas set in England and the US. She has won the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the International Digital Award. Readers say her stories are: "Heartwarming and inspiring! I couldn't put it down!" . . . "A touching love story. It captured me from the first page! Rich characters, beautifully written" . . . "My new favorite author!" Visit her website and sign up for her email newsletter at Carrie Turansky.com. Follow Carrie on Facebook and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
March 26, 2019
This is the final book in the Edwardian Brides series; and, although I loved every one, this one was my favorite. Once again featuring the Ramsey and Foster families along with their wonderful staff at Highland Hall, the focus this time was on Penny. She travels to London to help sister Kate and her husband, Jon, with the 8 children they have taken in as orphans. When the bombing of London grows increasingly worse during World War I, Sir William, her cousin, decides that the family and staff must evacuate to Highland Hall in the countryside where they will all be safer and be able to fulfill their needs more easily on the farm.
This book touched my heart in so many ways. The caring and support of both the family members and their staff for the war veterans. The strong faith of each of them especially seen in their daily morning devotions for both family and staff and the way they lived their lives in service to others. Turansky's historical detail regarding the Zepplin bombings, the RNAS, the air battles etc brought the varying aspects of World War I and the hardships endured by both civilians and military personnel to life. Her character development was superb, and the plot line just pulled me in so that I couldn't stop reading until I finished.
A wonderful historical fiction series that I highly recommend.
** I received a complimentary copy from the author in a Facebook giveaway. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
This book touched my heart in so many ways. The caring and support of both the family members and their staff for the war veterans. The strong faith of each of them especially seen in their daily morning devotions for both family and staff and the way they lived their lives in service to others. Turansky's historical detail regarding the Zepplin bombings, the RNAS, the air battles etc brought the varying aspects of World War I and the hardships endured by both civilians and military personnel to life. Her character development was superb, and the plot line just pulled me in so that I couldn't stop reading until I finished.
A wonderful historical fiction series that I highly recommend.
** I received a complimentary copy from the author in a Facebook giveaway. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
September 30, 2015
I'm excited to bring the third and final book in the Edwardian Brides Series to all the wonderful readers who have enjoyed meeting the Ramsey family of Highland Hall.
Penny Ramsey is determined to do all she can to help those she loves face the challenges brought about by The Great War - World War 1 - but can her heart survive the losses that will surely come her way as war sweeps through Europe and bombs begin falling on London? When Penny meets Alex Goodwin, a confident, dare-devil RNAS pilot, intent on defeating the Germans and proving his worth, her heart is drawn to him, but should she give her heart away, when it will most certainly mean losing the man she loves? Penny, her sister Kate, and the orphaned children in their care seek refuge at Highland Hall, and the family’s unity is tested. When the heartbreak and losses of war hit very close to home, Alex and and Penny face new challenges that threaten to pull them apart. Can their faith help them find the strength and courage to overcome those losses and be reunited?
Coming in October 20, 2015…Happy Reading to all!
Penny Ramsey is determined to do all she can to help those she loves face the challenges brought about by The Great War - World War 1 - but can her heart survive the losses that will surely come her way as war sweeps through Europe and bombs begin falling on London? When Penny meets Alex Goodwin, a confident, dare-devil RNAS pilot, intent on defeating the Germans and proving his worth, her heart is drawn to him, but should she give her heart away, when it will most certainly mean losing the man she loves? Penny, her sister Kate, and the orphaned children in their care seek refuge at Highland Hall, and the family’s unity is tested. When the heartbreak and losses of war hit very close to home, Alex and and Penny face new challenges that threaten to pull them apart. Can their faith help them find the strength and courage to overcome those losses and be reunited?
Coming in October 20, 2015…Happy Reading to all!
August 25, 2015
The hardship and sacrifices of the First World War are illuminated in this poignant portrait of faith and family during 1915 Britain. Author Carrie Turansky weaves an inspiring and beautiful tale about Love's power amidst adversity, and the miracle of redemption when we allow God to guide our hearts. Carrie's keen eye for historical detail lends an atmosphere that will transport readers back to a time of lush simplicity reminiscent of Downton Abbey, and set against the backdrop of war. With an engaging cast whose courage and strength promise to rise triumphant, A Refuge at Highland Hall is a wonderful novel.
November 30, 2015
About this book:
“The Great War shakes the world of a spirited young woman and the brave British pilot she loves, taking her from London to her family’s magnificent country estate, and sending him into the war-torn skies over France.
Penny Ramsey has always considered Highland Hall her home, but when Britain becomes involved in World War One she travels to London to assist her sister Kate with the eight orphan children she and her husband Jon have taken into their home. Doing her part for the war effort takes priority over Penny’s dreams of romance until she meets Alex Goodwin, a Royal Naval Air Service pilot in training.
Alex is determined to prove his worth and do his part to defend his country. Knowing he is heading off for the dangerous assignment of chasing Zeppelins across the front line in France, he feels it’s unwise to form any romantic attachments. But he can’t help admiring the pretty, warmhearted Penny and wondering what it would be like to find her waiting when he returns home from the war.
As Penny writes to Alex, their friendship blossoms, and she becomes his tie to home and normalcy as he faces the hardships war. But being an RNAS pilot means confronting the enemy, and the fallout from those experiences push Alex beyond Penny’s reach. Can God mend the brokenness left by the losses of war? Will faith and forgiveness bring them together again?”
Series: Book #3 in the “Edwardian Brides” series. Review of book #1 Here!(Old Review), Review of book #2 Here! {Recommend to read in order.}
Spiritual Content- Isaiah 40:30-31 at the beginning (and later mentioned, written, discussed & memorized in the story); Many, many, many Prayers & blessings over food; Lots & lots of strong faiths; Scriptures are read; Many, many, many Talks about God, praying, & trusting; ‘H’s are capital; A couple mentions of Jesus’ seat at the table; Mentions of Bible reading; Mentions of those in the Bible & Saints; Many mentions of missionaries; Siegfried is mad at God & Alex gets a bit mad as well.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast it all’, a ‘blimey’, a ‘drat’; Mentions of cures said not written; All about the war, bombing, soldiers, injuries, flying & crashing (up to semi-detailed); Pain, blood & a knife (up to semi-detailed); Many Mentions of bombs, killing & injuries (semi-detailed); Many mentions of Germans, unfairness & prisoners; Alex’s parents didn’t have a happy marriage; Mentions of cheating; Mentions of blood, fist fighting & teen boys (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a horse accident where a lady died; A mention of #2’s murder; A couple mentions of drunks.
Sexual Content- four cheek kisses, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (semi-detailed); Noticing & Smelling; A few mention of #2’s affair (no details); A couple mentions of Helen’s situation (has a daughter, but no husband; Book #2); Mentions of flirting & suggestive smiles; Mentions of reputations; Mentions of miscarriages, trying again & love (no-details); Marius says he’d never take advantage of a woman; A man wants a kiss from Lydia & tightens his grip on her arm (nothing happens); Love, falling in love & the emotions (x2);
*Note: A mention of being the butt of a joke; A mention of a kick in the pants.
-Penny Ramsey, age 19
-Alex Goodwin, age 23 (?)
P.O.V. switches between them, Lydia, Julia (4x), Marius (3x), William (2x) & Jon (2x)
Set in 1915 (Epilogue in 1919)
334 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Five Stars
{Add ½ a star for girls who enjoyed the previous books in the series.}
I didn’t think it was possible, but author Carrie Turansky topped the previous books in this series. “A Refuge at Highland Hall” was fantastic. I adored the other books in the series due to the caring for orphans plot & all the Spiritual Content, but this third and final book did so much of those it was incredible. I completely fell in love with the main characters in “The Governess of Highland Hall” and “The Daughter of Highland Hall”, so I was fangirling seeing everyone again! And they’re major characters in this book as well, so I definitely recommend reading this series in order. The epilogue was just prefect. ;)
There was so much wonderful Spiritual Content, I can’t even began to say how many prayers & talks about God there were. Excellent, just excellent! Also, Penny & Alex were so sweet (--I can’t even--) praying over each other and writing to each other, swoon! Their relationship is cuter than this puppy. Not. Even. Kidding.
I’m still so blown away by how clean this novel was. I love how the author keeps teen girls in mind when writing her “adult” books.
Carrie Turansky just moved up in my favorite authors group. :)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Multnomah Books) for this honest review.
“The Great War shakes the world of a spirited young woman and the brave British pilot she loves, taking her from London to her family’s magnificent country estate, and sending him into the war-torn skies over France.
Penny Ramsey has always considered Highland Hall her home, but when Britain becomes involved in World War One she travels to London to assist her sister Kate with the eight orphan children she and her husband Jon have taken into their home. Doing her part for the war effort takes priority over Penny’s dreams of romance until she meets Alex Goodwin, a Royal Naval Air Service pilot in training.
Alex is determined to prove his worth and do his part to defend his country. Knowing he is heading off for the dangerous assignment of chasing Zeppelins across the front line in France, he feels it’s unwise to form any romantic attachments. But he can’t help admiring the pretty, warmhearted Penny and wondering what it would be like to find her waiting when he returns home from the war.
As Penny writes to Alex, their friendship blossoms, and she becomes his tie to home and normalcy as he faces the hardships war. But being an RNAS pilot means confronting the enemy, and the fallout from those experiences push Alex beyond Penny’s reach. Can God mend the brokenness left by the losses of war? Will faith and forgiveness bring them together again?”
Series: Book #3 in the “Edwardian Brides” series. Review of book #1 Here!(Old Review), Review of book #2 Here! {Recommend to read in order.}
Spiritual Content- Isaiah 40:30-31 at the beginning (and later mentioned, written, discussed & memorized in the story); Many, many, many Prayers & blessings over food; Lots & lots of strong faiths; Scriptures are read; Many, many, many Talks about God, praying, & trusting; ‘H’s are capital; A couple mentions of Jesus’ seat at the table; Mentions of Bible reading; Mentions of those in the Bible & Saints; Many mentions of missionaries; Siegfried is mad at God & Alex gets a bit mad as well.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blast it all’, a ‘blimey’, a ‘drat’; Mentions of cures said not written; All about the war, bombing, soldiers, injuries, flying & crashing (up to semi-detailed); Pain, blood & a knife (up to semi-detailed); Many Mentions of bombs, killing & injuries (semi-detailed); Many mentions of Germans, unfairness & prisoners; Alex’s parents didn’t have a happy marriage; Mentions of cheating; Mentions of blood, fist fighting & teen boys (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a horse accident where a lady died; A mention of #2’s murder; A couple mentions of drunks.
Sexual Content- four cheek kisses, a forehead kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering a kiss (semi-detailed); Noticing & Smelling; A few mention of #2’s affair (no details); A couple mentions of Helen’s situation (has a daughter, but no husband; Book #2); Mentions of flirting & suggestive smiles; Mentions of reputations; Mentions of miscarriages, trying again & love (no-details); Marius says he’d never take advantage of a woman; A man wants a kiss from Lydia & tightens his grip on her arm (nothing happens); Love, falling in love & the emotions (x2);
*Note: A mention of being the butt of a joke; A mention of a kick in the pants.
-Penny Ramsey, age 19
-Alex Goodwin, age 23 (?)
P.O.V. switches between them, Lydia, Julia (4x), Marius (3x), William (2x) & Jon (2x)
Set in 1915 (Epilogue in 1919)
334 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars (and a half)
My personal Rating- Five Stars
{Add ½ a star for girls who enjoyed the previous books in the series.}
I didn’t think it was possible, but author Carrie Turansky topped the previous books in this series. “A Refuge at Highland Hall” was fantastic. I adored the other books in the series due to the caring for orphans plot & all the Spiritual Content, but this third and final book did so much of those it was incredible. I completely fell in love with the main characters in “The Governess of Highland Hall” and “The Daughter of Highland Hall”, so I was fangirling seeing everyone again! And they’re major characters in this book as well, so I definitely recommend reading this series in order. The epilogue was just prefect. ;)
There was so much wonderful Spiritual Content, I can’t even began to say how many prayers & talks about God there were. Excellent, just excellent! Also, Penny & Alex were so sweet (--I can’t even--) praying over each other and writing to each other, swoon! Their relationship is cuter than this puppy. Not. Even. Kidding.
I’m still so blown away by how clean this novel was. I love how the author keeps teen girls in mind when writing her “adult” books.
Carrie Turansky just moved up in my favorite authors group. :)
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Multnomah Books) for this honest review.
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
As an influencer for Carrie Turansky, I received a copy of A Refuge at Highland Hall in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, Carrie!
Now that I got the business stuff out of the way, let me dig in to the meat of this story.
First of all, it’s the final installment in the Edwardian Brides series. This series should be read in order for optimum reader appreciation. I was glad I read it from beginning to end, because I got to know the characters and watched them grow from one book to the next. What a cool experience. A lot of books leave you wondering what could have happened to the characters you fell in love with, but Carrie Turansky took us on a journey further into the lives of her dear, fictional friends.
One thing she’s mastered well (among many others, I assure you) is growing her characters across a series. In the first book, The Governess of Highland Hall, I must say Kate was quite a snob. But she really came into her own in the second book, The Daughter of Highland Hall. Now, in A Refuge at Highland Hall, it’s her sister Penny’s turn to shine.
And shine she does.
Penny Ramsey helps welcome her sister and the group of orphans she’s become a mother to into Highland Hall in the midst of World War I, even as she watches the man she’s come to care for fly into battle. Will the war end before her heart rips apart? Will everyone she loves who has taken part in fighting to protect her country return home once all is said and done?
It was a sad moment when I finished this book. Not because the story was sad, but because I hated to say goodbye to these lovely characters and their home of Highland Hall. Seriously, if you haven’t met them, you should. So, please. Add the Edwardian Brides series by Carrie Turansky to your to-be-read-immediately pile. You’ll be glad you did.
Just in case that wasn’t convincing enough, there’s more that I loved about this story.
The clear and detailed description and action of Alex Goodwin flying in the war, fighting against gunfire and Zeppelins, was so intricately written that I got lost in the scene and forgot I was curled up in my recliner. Oh yeah. Carrie Turansky got me again. Many times I found myself giggling, crying, gasping, and who knows what other sounds came out of my mouth before this book was up. But did I look around to see if anyone was looking? Okay, so maybe I did once. But that was when I was reading in the check-out line at Wal-Mart. This book was too good to leave in the car. It’s really too bad I can’t read and shop at the same time. You know, while I’m searching for the items I need. Yeah, if anyone figures out how to do that, let me know. Please!
So, to sum it all up, A Refuge at Highland Hall might be finishing up a series, but it also found its way to my heart… and my keeper shelf.
As an influencer for Carrie Turansky, I received a copy of A Refuge at Highland Hall in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, Carrie!
Now that I got the business stuff out of the way, let me dig in to the meat of this story.
First of all, it’s the final installment in the Edwardian Brides series. This series should be read in order for optimum reader appreciation. I was glad I read it from beginning to end, because I got to know the characters and watched them grow from one book to the next. What a cool experience. A lot of books leave you wondering what could have happened to the characters you fell in love with, but Carrie Turansky took us on a journey further into the lives of her dear, fictional friends.
One thing she’s mastered well (among many others, I assure you) is growing her characters across a series. In the first book, The Governess of Highland Hall, I must say Kate was quite a snob. But she really came into her own in the second book, The Daughter of Highland Hall. Now, in A Refuge at Highland Hall, it’s her sister Penny’s turn to shine.
And shine she does.
Penny Ramsey helps welcome her sister and the group of orphans she’s become a mother to into Highland Hall in the midst of World War I, even as she watches the man she’s come to care for fly into battle. Will the war end before her heart rips apart? Will everyone she loves who has taken part in fighting to protect her country return home once all is said and done?
It was a sad moment when I finished this book. Not because the story was sad, but because I hated to say goodbye to these lovely characters and their home of Highland Hall. Seriously, if you haven’t met them, you should. So, please. Add the Edwardian Brides series by Carrie Turansky to your to-be-read-immediately pile. You’ll be glad you did.
Just in case that wasn’t convincing enough, there’s more that I loved about this story.
The clear and detailed description and action of Alex Goodwin flying in the war, fighting against gunfire and Zeppelins, was so intricately written that I got lost in the scene and forgot I was curled up in my recliner. Oh yeah. Carrie Turansky got me again. Many times I found myself giggling, crying, gasping, and who knows what other sounds came out of my mouth before this book was up. But did I look around to see if anyone was looking? Okay, so maybe I did once. But that was when I was reading in the check-out line at Wal-Mart. This book was too good to leave in the car. It’s really too bad I can’t read and shop at the same time. You know, while I’m searching for the items I need. Yeah, if anyone figures out how to do that, let me know. Please!
So, to sum it all up, A Refuge at Highland Hall might be finishing up a series, but it also found its way to my heart… and my keeper shelf.
October 17, 2015
A Refuge at Highland Hall is a beautiful conclusion to the Edwardian Brides series. It is filled with realistic characters and set in a time period that is fraught with turmoil. I enjoyed that the author brought all of the main characters from the previous books back together at Highland Hall, where this stately manor truly became a refuge to many in this turbulent time of war.
The main story line follows Penny Ramsey and her developing relationship with Alex Goodwin, who is a pilot during WWI. I loved hearing the thoughts of these two characters as they juggled their worries and doubts. I especially liked reading the letters that were exchanged between the two when Alex was serving as a pilot. My heart hurt for both of them during parts of this story as they both tried to find the path that God had for them.
Another enjoyable aspect of this story is that the other two couples from books one and two have their own situations that they must trust God to bring them through. It was heartwarming to watch William and Julia trust in God to work in their situation. Kate and Jon had to survive long stretches of being apart from each other during a stressful time for their family. And I really enjoyed the additional story between Marius and Lydia. Every struggle that occurred for each of the couples in this book helped to develop and strengthen not only their relationships with each other, but also to solidify their reliance upon God.
I was sad to come to the end of the book, as I could read about this family indefinitely! However, I thought that the ending to this story was just perfect. It tied up the loose ends and gave me a glimpse into the future lives of these characters and was a very satisfying conclusion.
I definitely recommend this entire series to fans of historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
The main story line follows Penny Ramsey and her developing relationship with Alex Goodwin, who is a pilot during WWI. I loved hearing the thoughts of these two characters as they juggled their worries and doubts. I especially liked reading the letters that were exchanged between the two when Alex was serving as a pilot. My heart hurt for both of them during parts of this story as they both tried to find the path that God had for them.
Another enjoyable aspect of this story is that the other two couples from books one and two have their own situations that they must trust God to bring them through. It was heartwarming to watch William and Julia trust in God to work in their situation. Kate and Jon had to survive long stretches of being apart from each other during a stressful time for their family. And I really enjoyed the additional story between Marius and Lydia. Every struggle that occurred for each of the couples in this book helped to develop and strengthen not only their relationships with each other, but also to solidify their reliance upon God.
I was sad to come to the end of the book, as I could read about this family indefinitely! However, I thought that the ending to this story was just perfect. It tied up the loose ends and gave me a glimpse into the future lives of these characters and was a very satisfying conclusion.
I definitely recommend this entire series to fans of historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
October 1, 2016
A Refuge at Highland Hall was just as good as the rest of the series. Penny is a lovable character that I enjoyed spending 338 pages with. Alex is a dashing and daring character that is a good match for Penny. The scenes of him in flight battles with the enemy were very well done. His struggles seemed very real and I felt as if I was working through them right along with the characters in the book.
There was one scene that my family and I consider a 'fast forward' scene where Alex and Penny share a moderately descriptive kiss before they are married, engaged, or even formerly courting. I was a little disappointed at that.
Besides that one scene, I enjoyed the book immensely. I must confess, I feel like there should be more stories to the series because I'm not ready to let all the characters go! This is probably a series I will revisit again sometime.
There was one scene that my family and I consider a 'fast forward' scene where Alex and Penny share a moderately descriptive kiss before they are married, engaged, or even formerly courting. I was a little disappointed at that.
Besides that one scene, I enjoyed the book immensely. I must confess, I feel like there should be more stories to the series because I'm not ready to let all the characters go! This is probably a series I will revisit again sometime.
March 25, 2016
I loved this book! It's the last of the series and is set during World War 1. Obviously, that's going to be a story that isn't all fun and roses. Penny leaves London with her family after the bombings begin and moves to Highland Hall for safety. She meets a young pilot and falls in love with him before leaving London, and their correspondence figures in the story. But when he quits writing, she is confused by his rejection and begins to help the war effort as she can. Is there any way she can expect a happy ending in such a shattered country?
The story line of this is incredibly absorbing, and this ranks easily in one of the top novels I've ever read about WW1. Do yourself a favor and read it!
The story line of this is incredibly absorbing, and this ranks easily in one of the top novels I've ever read about WW1. Do yourself a favor and read it!
August 18, 2016
Oh. My. GOSH!!! *happiness, happiness, happiness*
Read me ranting about how good this book is and how unfair it is that the series is ended here.
~Kellyn Roth
Read me ranting about how good this book is and how unfair it is that the series is ended here.
~Kellyn Roth
October 25, 2015
The Edwardian Brides Series grew stronger with each book. It was great to see characters develop in all three novels in the series.
A Refuge at Highland Hall brings in aspects of WWI not found in the other novels. I especially enjoyed how Carrie brought in aspects of the war experienced by both airmen (stress, pressure, failure, etc.) and common citizens (knitting for soldiers and air raids as examples). It was a nice addition to have a separate story line tied to an internment camp.
The Edwardian Brides Series was a delightful series and recommended for historical fiction readers.
A Refuge at Highland Hall brings in aspects of WWI not found in the other novels. I especially enjoyed how Carrie brought in aspects of the war experienced by both airmen (stress, pressure, failure, etc.) and common citizens (knitting for soldiers and air raids as examples). It was a nice addition to have a separate story line tied to an internment camp.
The Edwardian Brides Series was a delightful series and recommended for historical fiction readers.
April 1, 2017
A really sweet story that I enjoyed much more than the first book in the series. I loved all the couples in it...and the epilogue was perfection. Wonderful story!
March 18, 2016
World War 1 Flying Aces and German Zeppelins zoom across the pages of A Refuge at Highland Hall, the challenges of war meticulously researched and creatively conveyed. The beginnings of new love spark for two couples in this story, tempered by the separation of war – be it by deployment or internment – but allowing the power of the written word to fan the heart’s spark into a steady and enduring flame is truly the stuff of great romance! My favorite of the Edwardian Brides series, A Refuge at Highland Hall is best appreciated if read in context (the characters!!) though it can also be read as a standalone. Speaking of characters, the Ramseys and the Fosters and those in their household (servants and friends) will carve out a spot in your heart, and though this farewell is bittersweet it is also sweetly satisfying. If you enjoyed Kate Breslin’s Not By Sight or Pepper Basham’s Penned In Time series – or if you’re still mourning the loss of Downton Abbey, you will find a refuge in Carrie Turansky’s Edwardian Brides series as well!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 8, 2018
What a beautiful picture of God's faithfulness when storms occur in your life This book brought back many of the characters of Carrie's first two books in this series while giving Penny a love that she could trust in Alex. If you are a fan of Downton Abbey and historical period you will not want to miss this read.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this wonderful story.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this wonderful story.
October 12, 2015
A Refuge at Highland Hall is the third installment of the Edwardian Brides. What a fabulous book! I cannot tell you how much I love this series and this book from it does not disappoint. I think this is my favorite yet! I look so much more by Carrie Turansky in the future. She is such a talented writer.
What a wonderful read!
5 plus stars.
What a wonderful read!
5 plus stars.
December 2, 2024
I really loved Penny and Alex as characters, and their relationship was precious! I don't love the trope of "oh no I had major trauma and now I'm not good enough for you," though, and I feel like the resolution of that was kinda off page. But the faith content was excellent, like with the rest of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2023
I believe this is the last in this series. So thankful I had the opportunity to read this. Storylines fit beautifully together. I’ll probably re-read this one and the other two in the near future. Great characters - wonderful faith - superb stories.
July 18, 2017
Deb’s Dozen: A caring woman, a pilot facing the life-altering fight of his career.
A Refuge at Highland Hall is the third book in the Edwardian Brides series by Carrie Turansky. The first two books, The Governess at Highland Hall, and The Daughter at Highland Hall were excellent. I was privileged to read Refuge in a pre-publication version—and I can hardly wait to get my final print copy.
The characters from the first two books carry through to Refuge. You’ll get reacquainted with Sir William and Lady Julia (Governess), Jonathan and Kate (Ramsey) Foster, Mrs. Dalton, Lydia, Mr. Lawrence, and the other members of the households and catch up with their lives. This novel is Penny’s story.
The times they’ve been a changing. England is at war with Germany in WWI—the Great War—which has been going on for nine months. Penny is determined to do her part to help with the wounded soldiers who are convalescing in London. Jon Foster, Dr. Foster is a member of staff at St. George’s Hospital Military Unit—he tends their battle wounds but also arranges outings for them as he knows they need more than medical care to boost their morale.
While at one of these outings, Penny meets Alex Goodwin, a friend of Jon’s from India, who is training to be a pilot. Alex was injured slightly he said, when “the ground came up a bit too fast on my last landing practice.” The Royal Naval Air Service is England’s main defense against the Germans and the deadly bombing missions of the Germans. Although they haven’t reached London yet, zeppelins are bombing the English coastline and causing chaos.
Through a series of happenings, Alex ends up staying with the Fosters for a while. Penny is determined to guard her heart because the life expectancy for pilots overseas in only about six weeks. Will Penny succeed in her resolve? Will Alex make it through the war? How will the war impact the members of the Foster and Ramsey families and their staff at Highland Hall?
You’re going to love this concluding story in the Edwardian Brides series. Nineteen-year-old Penny has long been one of my favorite characters. You’ll enjoy watching her mature as she faces the wartime challenges. This is a wonderful five star romance!
I caught up with Carrie Turansky at the recent International Christian Retail Show in Orlando. My experience with her writing has been the Highland Hall books, but she has written fourteen books with Barbour Publishing and Love Inspired Books.
An editor friend suggested the series in 2012. Carrie liked the era and decided to take her advice. She found the effects of the war on the British people of that era fascinating and their courage inspiring. Much of the story is inspired by the biography of the pilot who first brought down one of the infamous zeppelins.
When I asked her what she had learned about herself while writing Refuge, she told me that it reaffirmed that she loved England and that she also found depending on the Lord to assist her to get the work done on time was critical.
Carrie is married to Scott, a pastor at Calvary Chapel, and author of many parenting books. They have five children and four grandchildren. Carrie was an art major and loves to garden and learn about eating healthier. She says she’s an introvert so writing suits her. They’ve lived in Oregon, Hawaii (for eight years), and are now in New Jersey.
She hopes people will take away from her books the realization and knowledge of God’s faithfulness—that He can take devastation and turn it around for good.
A Refuge at Highland Hall is the third book in the Edwardian Brides series by Carrie Turansky. The first two books, The Governess at Highland Hall, and The Daughter at Highland Hall were excellent. I was privileged to read Refuge in a pre-publication version—and I can hardly wait to get my final print copy.
The characters from the first two books carry through to Refuge. You’ll get reacquainted with Sir William and Lady Julia (Governess), Jonathan and Kate (Ramsey) Foster, Mrs. Dalton, Lydia, Mr. Lawrence, and the other members of the households and catch up with their lives. This novel is Penny’s story.
The times they’ve been a changing. England is at war with Germany in WWI—the Great War—which has been going on for nine months. Penny is determined to do her part to help with the wounded soldiers who are convalescing in London. Jon Foster, Dr. Foster is a member of staff at St. George’s Hospital Military Unit—he tends their battle wounds but also arranges outings for them as he knows they need more than medical care to boost their morale.
While at one of these outings, Penny meets Alex Goodwin, a friend of Jon’s from India, who is training to be a pilot. Alex was injured slightly he said, when “the ground came up a bit too fast on my last landing practice.” The Royal Naval Air Service is England’s main defense against the Germans and the deadly bombing missions of the Germans. Although they haven’t reached London yet, zeppelins are bombing the English coastline and causing chaos.
Through a series of happenings, Alex ends up staying with the Fosters for a while. Penny is determined to guard her heart because the life expectancy for pilots overseas in only about six weeks. Will Penny succeed in her resolve? Will Alex make it through the war? How will the war impact the members of the Foster and Ramsey families and their staff at Highland Hall?
You’re going to love this concluding story in the Edwardian Brides series. Nineteen-year-old Penny has long been one of my favorite characters. You’ll enjoy watching her mature as she faces the wartime challenges. This is a wonderful five star romance!
I caught up with Carrie Turansky at the recent International Christian Retail Show in Orlando. My experience with her writing has been the Highland Hall books, but she has written fourteen books with Barbour Publishing and Love Inspired Books.
An editor friend suggested the series in 2012. Carrie liked the era and decided to take her advice. She found the effects of the war on the British people of that era fascinating and their courage inspiring. Much of the story is inspired by the biography of the pilot who first brought down one of the infamous zeppelins.
When I asked her what she had learned about herself while writing Refuge, she told me that it reaffirmed that she loved England and that she also found depending on the Lord to assist her to get the work done on time was critical.
Carrie is married to Scott, a pastor at Calvary Chapel, and author of many parenting books. They have five children and four grandchildren. Carrie was an art major and loves to garden and learn about eating healthier. She says she’s an introvert so writing suits her. They’ve lived in Oregon, Hawaii (for eight years), and are now in New Jersey.
She hopes people will take away from her books the realization and knowledge of God’s faithfulness—that He can take devastation and turn it around for good.
October 20, 2015
I have only read one of the previous books in the Edwardian Brides series, and I really liked the continuation of the Ramsey family’s story without a detailed recap; there is enough for readers who have not read the previous two books to catch the gist of what was missed, but those who have been with the series from the start should not get bored, either. Many characters reappear and it’s like visiting with old friends, but from a different perspective as we see this next installment through new eyes. It helps to know who is who coming in as it informs their backgrounds, but this novel can be read as a standalone for someone who doesn’t want to start from the first book.
The spiritual component is carefully wound throughout the narrative, appearing and reappearing in the major characters’ lives as well as the minor ones. Because they have each exhibited faith from the beginning of the story, it can clearly be seen as a sustaining factor in several instances and the struggles take on an added poignancy as I could relate to some of the doubts and challenges faced by even strong believers. Christianity never promises that all of our problems will go away, only that we will never have to face them alone, and that is beautifully illustrated in this story.
Historical detail is outstanding in this book and I found myself repeatedly saying, “I didn’t know that!” From the details of daily life in London during WWI to food shortages and trying to prevent rationing, from German prisoners interred for no reason other than their heritage to the early days of wartime aviation, this book hits on many topics to provide a well-rounded storyline. It is obviously well-researched and a lot of that made it through the final edits in the novel to ground me in the time and place where the novel takes place.
I found the romance to be a tad lacking—they have very little time together before being separated by war. I enjoyed that the relationship advanced through letters, keeping the characters on the same page without being in the same place physically, however, when we get to the end, there’s a stunning finish, some lovely words, and then an epilogue. As the reader, I felt I had too little time to enjoy what the novel had been building up to from the earliest chapters.
Despite feeling a bit rushed at the end, overall I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and the Edwardian Brides series; I am going back to read the second book that I missed the first time around. And I will be watching for whatever Carrie Turansky writes next in the hopes of finding another set of novels in which to lose myself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Book Talk 411 (http://booktalk.fiction411.com) in exchange for this honest review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
The spiritual component is carefully wound throughout the narrative, appearing and reappearing in the major characters’ lives as well as the minor ones. Because they have each exhibited faith from the beginning of the story, it can clearly be seen as a sustaining factor in several instances and the struggles take on an added poignancy as I could relate to some of the doubts and challenges faced by even strong believers. Christianity never promises that all of our problems will go away, only that we will never have to face them alone, and that is beautifully illustrated in this story.
Historical detail is outstanding in this book and I found myself repeatedly saying, “I didn’t know that!” From the details of daily life in London during WWI to food shortages and trying to prevent rationing, from German prisoners interred for no reason other than their heritage to the early days of wartime aviation, this book hits on many topics to provide a well-rounded storyline. It is obviously well-researched and a lot of that made it through the final edits in the novel to ground me in the time and place where the novel takes place.
I found the romance to be a tad lacking—they have very little time together before being separated by war. I enjoyed that the relationship advanced through letters, keeping the characters on the same page without being in the same place physically, however, when we get to the end, there’s a stunning finish, some lovely words, and then an epilogue. As the reader, I felt I had too little time to enjoy what the novel had been building up to from the earliest chapters.
Despite feeling a bit rushed at the end, overall I have thoroughly enjoyed this book and the Edwardian Brides series; I am going back to read the second book that I missed the first time around. And I will be watching for whatever Carrie Turansky writes next in the hopes of finding another set of novels in which to lose myself.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Book Talk 411 (http://booktalk.fiction411.com) in exchange for this honest review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
December 4, 2025
Wow. What a story of how WWI affected those of all societal classes and ethnicities residing in England at the time.
✨Full review & star ranking to come.
✨Full review & star ranking to come.
May 24, 2017
I was immediately drawn into the story from the beginning. I enjoy watching as Penny and Alex overcame hardships and discovered true love. I love the spiritual truths woven throughout this story. I highly recommend this book.
November 2, 2015
Welcome to my review for A Refuge at Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky, I was able to read a copy because of blogging for books and Im so happy it was available because I have read other book in these series
This book takes place in England in 1915 and is centered around Penny Ramsey who has always considered Highland Hall her home. This book is Christian Fiction at its finest and is around the same time period as Downton Abbey which is my favorite Tv show.
With all the young men going off to war and with London being bombed, Penny moves back to Highland to be safe from the war problems. She meet a Young Pilot and a romance starts to bloom, this until he is injured in the war and though he is a hero he does not feel that he will be able to be with Penny because of his injuries.
There is so much going on in this book and it has many characters to keep track of but its a really wonderful read and is filled with awesome Christian reference.
Though the story is mostly about Penny there is also much about the other people staying at Highland Hall for safety reasons and also staff intrigue and romance its a great book and I hope you give it a try soon thanks for looking
February 22, 2016
If you are a Downton Abbey fan you will love Refuge at Highland Hall -- and the entire series for that matter. This is the third book but reads well as a standalone though the author has done an incredible job of concluding this series. I'm all agog over how Turansky incorporated favourite characters from the previous books into this one. I had so much fun catching up with William and Julie and Kate and Jonathan. Thrilled me to my toes to be able to visit with dear friends from previous books so I was happy dancing all the way through this one. :-)
Captivating from the very first page, Turansky spins an intriguing and angst-riddled story. The historical detail is fascinating and I learned some things about World War I that I didn't know before. Fiction is my favourite kind of history lesson! And that war puts a damper on the first stirring of romance between Penny and Alex. They do a good bit of their courting through letters and as their feelings grow deeper times grow more desperate and suddenly a simple romance becomes impossibly complicated.
Brimming with love and laughter and faith (and more than a small amount of angst), Refuge at Highland Hall delivers the kind of story that brings the past to life.
Captivating from the very first page, Turansky spins an intriguing and angst-riddled story. The historical detail is fascinating and I learned some things about World War I that I didn't know before. Fiction is my favourite kind of history lesson! And that war puts a damper on the first stirring of romance between Penny and Alex. They do a good bit of their courting through letters and as their feelings grow deeper times grow more desperate and suddenly a simple romance becomes impossibly complicated.
Brimming with love and laughter and faith (and more than a small amount of angst), Refuge at Highland Hall delivers the kind of story that brings the past to life.
March 4, 2016
As with the first 2 stories in Carrie Turansky's Edwardian Bride series, A Refuge at Highland Hall was a clean book and well-written. The story takes place in and around one of England's large manor houses prior to and during World War I. The time frame is 1915-1919 and the background story is the War and how it affects the entire populace no matter their station in life.
Refuge is truly a major theme of the book and refuge is found within the confines of Highland Hall. But other types of refuge - refuge of the soul and emotions is found in those in and around Highland Hall and the marvelous way they show gracious caring for one another.
There is a touch of drama toward the end, but mainly the story moves along at a gracious, easy reading pace letting the reader peek into the lives of folks during the war years
Refuge is truly a major theme of the book and refuge is found within the confines of Highland Hall. But other types of refuge - refuge of the soul and emotions is found in those in and around Highland Hall and the marvelous way they show gracious caring for one another.
There is a touch of drama toward the end, but mainly the story moves along at a gracious, easy reading pace letting the reader peek into the lives of folks during the war years
October 2, 2015
A wonderful Conclusion to this series. These can be stand alone books but characters are introduced in previous books. I will greatly miss this series. I will just have to read it again. The book is well written. I love the inspirational theme through out the book. I look forward to reading any future books from Carrie Turansky. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 7, 2017
It has been years since I read the first two books of the series, but I picked up the characters and what had happened in the past fairly quickly from the first couple of pages. I think this is my favorite of the series. A bit more action than the others.
This one is set in the early days of WWI, and deals a lot with the bombings London suffered, WWI airplane tactics (before dogfights and what we think of as WWI aces developed), and the internment camps set up in England for German immigrants (and some that were even already English citizens but of German descent). This book would make a good companion read with Roseanne White's Book A Name Unknown where the main character is of German descent and is in danger of being sent to an internment camp. In A Refuge at Highland Hall, one of the secondary main characters is in an internment camp.
About the only thing I didn't like about the book was some of the ineffectual parenting that drove me kind of nuts. At one point, the best parenting advice was spoken by an 11 year old boy. This was straightened out as the book went along, and some of it was due to the culture of the time (the children tended to be passed off to maids to raise instead of the parents taking a more active role).
Besides that, I really enjoyed this book and was glad to finish off the series.
This one is set in the early days of WWI, and deals a lot with the bombings London suffered, WWI airplane tactics (before dogfights and what we think of as WWI aces developed), and the internment camps set up in England for German immigrants (and some that were even already English citizens but of German descent). This book would make a good companion read with Roseanne White's Book A Name Unknown where the main character is of German descent and is in danger of being sent to an internment camp. In A Refuge at Highland Hall, one of the secondary main characters is in an internment camp.
About the only thing I didn't like about the book was some of the ineffectual parenting that drove me kind of nuts. At one point, the best parenting advice was spoken by an 11 year old boy. This was straightened out as the book went along, and some of it was due to the culture of the time (the children tended to be passed off to maids to raise instead of the parents taking a more active role).
Besides that, I really enjoyed this book and was glad to finish off the series.
May 21, 2017
Good book! Kept my attention Very well! Too many characters would be my only critique!!
November 2, 2015
End of a Trilogy
In A Governess for Highland Hall, where our story began we have Julia Foster, a missionary’s daughter who goes to work to help support her family and William Ramsey a rich widower trying to hold his family together since his wife passed away. This is where Ms. Turansky introduces us to what is our first unlikely pairing. Two people from opposite worlds meeting and their worlds collide. William is trying to run his estate and raise not only his children but his cousin Randolph’s two teen daughters and his hands are full and he spends little to no time with the children. So he hires Julia Foster to be the Governess of the children and she not only steps into this role but later the role of his wife.
In A Daughter for Highland Hall, we have Katherine Ramsey, a debutante and Jonathan Foster, a medical student; who are unlikely paring number two. Their lives take on a different path then either thought possible. Did they trust God?
And now in this third and final book of the Edwardian Brides Series by Ms. Carrie Turanksy; A Refuge of Highland Hall, we step back into 1915, World War I and our little Penny Ramsey is all grown up and the center of attention throughout this book.
And doesn’t every romance / suspense novel need a hero? Of course, so in steps our handsome, brave and oh so daring Alex Goodwin, who just happens to be a British pilot. Who leaves home and all he knows, to be a pilot and the best one at that!
Before he had left he and Penny met briefly, but enough that they started a friendship through letter writing (such a lost art today!). Their love blossoms throughout the story and Ms. Turansky has a wonderful way of drawing us in and describing in detail every step they take; their hearts being tugged at, and what they do to find their way back to each other.
But wait, we don’t just have one romance budding in our final book, we have two! The second couple is also unexpected and an unlikely pair, but then again this is how it has been throughout the series.
Our third unlikely couple … Lydia Chambers a lady’s maid and Marius Ritter a prisoner of war. They meet through an unfortunate accident at the Estate and the ugliness of WW1; and not to mention on opposite sides of the war. Why was Lydia drawn to this man, this prisoner of war; and not afraid of him? What did Marius see in Lydia that drew him toward her as she tended to his injury? How did God intervene and draw the heart of an ‘enemy’ and the heart of a Lady’s maid together and to what lengths would they go to, to be together?
All of Carrie Turansky’s books have been wonderful examples of how God see us, trusting Him even though we can’t see the outcome, faith developed & nurtured; relationships mended, forgiveness given and love triumphing through it all.
I must admit I felt this last book ended a bit abruptly and I wanted more, perhaps a fourth book to tie all the loose ends together.
All in all Ms. Turansky does an amazing job of research and planning out the stories and intertwining their lives. She draws you in with her writing and makes you feel like one of the characters in her book(s). I love her passion for this time period and how she describes in details the homes, the dress, the events. Looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Thank you Carrie Turansky and WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing for the complimentary copy of this book, which I received in exchange for an honest and personal review. All comments are my own and I was not compensation for my review.
In A Governess for Highland Hall, where our story began we have Julia Foster, a missionary’s daughter who goes to work to help support her family and William Ramsey a rich widower trying to hold his family together since his wife passed away. This is where Ms. Turansky introduces us to what is our first unlikely pairing. Two people from opposite worlds meeting and their worlds collide. William is trying to run his estate and raise not only his children but his cousin Randolph’s two teen daughters and his hands are full and he spends little to no time with the children. So he hires Julia Foster to be the Governess of the children and she not only steps into this role but later the role of his wife.
In A Daughter for Highland Hall, we have Katherine Ramsey, a debutante and Jonathan Foster, a medical student; who are unlikely paring number two. Their lives take on a different path then either thought possible. Did they trust God?
And now in this third and final book of the Edwardian Brides Series by Ms. Carrie Turanksy; A Refuge of Highland Hall, we step back into 1915, World War I and our little Penny Ramsey is all grown up and the center of attention throughout this book.
And doesn’t every romance / suspense novel need a hero? Of course, so in steps our handsome, brave and oh so daring Alex Goodwin, who just happens to be a British pilot. Who leaves home and all he knows, to be a pilot and the best one at that!
Before he had left he and Penny met briefly, but enough that they started a friendship through letter writing (such a lost art today!). Their love blossoms throughout the story and Ms. Turansky has a wonderful way of drawing us in and describing in detail every step they take; their hearts being tugged at, and what they do to find their way back to each other.
But wait, we don’t just have one romance budding in our final book, we have two! The second couple is also unexpected and an unlikely pair, but then again this is how it has been throughout the series.
Our third unlikely couple … Lydia Chambers a lady’s maid and Marius Ritter a prisoner of war. They meet through an unfortunate accident at the Estate and the ugliness of WW1; and not to mention on opposite sides of the war. Why was Lydia drawn to this man, this prisoner of war; and not afraid of him? What did Marius see in Lydia that drew him toward her as she tended to his injury? How did God intervene and draw the heart of an ‘enemy’ and the heart of a Lady’s maid together and to what lengths would they go to, to be together?
All of Carrie Turansky’s books have been wonderful examples of how God see us, trusting Him even though we can’t see the outcome, faith developed & nurtured; relationships mended, forgiveness given and love triumphing through it all.
I must admit I felt this last book ended a bit abruptly and I wanted more, perhaps a fourth book to tie all the loose ends together.
All in all Ms. Turansky does an amazing job of research and planning out the stories and intertwining their lives. She draws you in with her writing and makes you feel like one of the characters in her book(s). I love her passion for this time period and how she describes in details the homes, the dress, the events. Looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Thank you Carrie Turansky and WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing for the complimentary copy of this book, which I received in exchange for an honest and personal review. All comments are my own and I was not compensation for my review.
July 6, 2020
This is, in my opinion, the best of the series! An inspiring story of trusting God and facing each new day with faith and confidence.
October 23, 2015
Friday, October 23, 2015
A Refuge at Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky, © 2015
Edwardian Brides Series, Book 3
A lovely story of hope and love during turbulent times.
Happenstance acquaintanceship builds throughout the story, as those spark a need further on.
1915, World War I
Moved to the countryside at Highland Hall, near Fulton, in Berkshire, a family closes up their Kensington home following blitz bombings throughout London by the Germans, removing women and children out of harms' way.
The childhood home of sisters Kate Foster and Penny Ramsey, they rejoin their cousin Sir William Ramsey and his wife Julia, now overseeing the estate of Highland Hall since the death of the sisters' parents. Julia's brother, Dr. Jonathan Foster and his wife, Kate, have brought their orphaned and abandoned children they rescued from the streets in need of care. Five girls and three boys, ages four to fifteen, the country life has brought them hope and a new experience of being able to play freely on the grounds.
German prisoners are brought in to care for the fields, after the departure of the men going to British war aide. All is not as it seems, as some were children when they arrived with their families from Germany, but because of their parentage they are detained in encampment with guards. Those who had been bankers and other trades, going on with their lives, caring for their families and loved ones. War has brought upheaval to their lives as well, disrupting what they hold dear.
Lieutenant Alexander Goodwin and his sister, Lindy, become reacquainted with hope for a future contact between them. Their parents had divorced, now their father deceased and their mother remarried. It took bravery for Alex to knock on the London home he had not lived in to seek out his welcome and his younger sister separated from him for so many years. Spurned away, he seeks refuge with new friends, Dr. Jon whom he has known since their boyhood in India, on his three-day weekend before returning for pilot training with the Royal Naval Air Service against enemy craft.
Penny and Alex write to each other after he returns to his service. Uplifting for him, gives her a personal interest in the war, as they share encouragement back and forth.
My favorite part was how Alex spoke into Andrew Ramsey's life by being honest and vulnerable with his own decisions. Young Andrew will one day inherit Highland Hall, as the eldest son. Invaluable imparting wisdom and love by example, Alex will have a huge turn about in Andrew's life choices.
The Edwardian Brides Series includes book 1, The Governess of Highland Hall; book 2, The Daughter of Highland Hall; and book 3, A Refuge at Highland Hall written by author Carrie Turansky.
***Thank you to author Carrie Turansky for inviting me to be a part of the review team for this third novel, A Refuge of Highland Hall, and to WaterBrook Multnomah for sending me a pre-release copy. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
A Refuge at Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky, © 2015
Edwardian Brides Series, Book 3
A lovely story of hope and love during turbulent times.
Happenstance acquaintanceship builds throughout the story, as those spark a need further on.
1915, World War I
Moved to the countryside at Highland Hall, near Fulton, in Berkshire, a family closes up their Kensington home following blitz bombings throughout London by the Germans, removing women and children out of harms' way.
The childhood home of sisters Kate Foster and Penny Ramsey, they rejoin their cousin Sir William Ramsey and his wife Julia, now overseeing the estate of Highland Hall since the death of the sisters' parents. Julia's brother, Dr. Jonathan Foster and his wife, Kate, have brought their orphaned and abandoned children they rescued from the streets in need of care. Five girls and three boys, ages four to fifteen, the country life has brought them hope and a new experience of being able to play freely on the grounds.
German prisoners are brought in to care for the fields, after the departure of the men going to British war aide. All is not as it seems, as some were children when they arrived with their families from Germany, but because of their parentage they are detained in encampment with guards. Those who had been bankers and other trades, going on with their lives, caring for their families and loved ones. War has brought upheaval to their lives as well, disrupting what they hold dear.
Lieutenant Alexander Goodwin and his sister, Lindy, become reacquainted with hope for a future contact between them. Their parents had divorced, now their father deceased and their mother remarried. It took bravery for Alex to knock on the London home he had not lived in to seek out his welcome and his younger sister separated from him for so many years. Spurned away, he seeks refuge with new friends, Dr. Jon whom he has known since their boyhood in India, on his three-day weekend before returning for pilot training with the Royal Naval Air Service against enemy craft.
Penny and Alex write to each other after he returns to his service. Uplifting for him, gives her a personal interest in the war, as they share encouragement back and forth.
My favorite part was how Alex spoke into Andrew Ramsey's life by being honest and vulnerable with his own decisions. Young Andrew will one day inherit Highland Hall, as the eldest son. Invaluable imparting wisdom and love by example, Alex will have a huge turn about in Andrew's life choices.
The Edwardian Brides Series includes book 1, The Governess of Highland Hall; book 2, The Daughter of Highland Hall; and book 3, A Refuge at Highland Hall written by author Carrie Turansky.
***Thank you to author Carrie Turansky for inviting me to be a part of the review team for this third novel, A Refuge of Highland Hall, and to WaterBrook Multnomah for sending me a pre-release copy. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
December 3, 2015
About the Book:
In this third and final book in the Edwardian Brides Series, you’ll be swept away to England and France in 1915 as the Ramsey family and their staff and friends face the dramatic challenges and losses of World War One, yet they also experience the hope and triumph that comes as they put their trust in God to carry them through. Penny Ramsey helps the family welcome a group of orphaned children to Highland Hall, but she soon discovers caring for them is more difficult than she’d expected. She writes to Alex Goodwin, a daring British pilot, who chases German zeppelins across the sky over the Front Line in France, and longs for the day she will see him again. You’ll be delighted by two pure and heartwarming romances: Penny and Alex, and Lydia Chambers and Marius Ritter, a lady’s maid and a prisoner of war. But most of all I hope you’ll be inspired by the characters’ examples of trusting God through the trials they face.
Fans of “Downton Abbey” will find many of the same elements in this series: A wealthy, aristocratic family living on a large English country estate with romance, conflicts, and family drama; and loyal servants with troubles and heartaches of their own.
My Review:
Penny Ramsey left her Highland Hall home for London when Britain became involved in World War I. Now she helps her dear sister, Kate with eight orphaned children, that Kate and her husband took in. And with Kate pregnant with her first child, she definitely is going to need a lot of help. One day Kate’s husband arrives just in time for tea, but he brings an old friend along. And let’s just say he’s quite a looker.
Alex Goodwin finds Penny Ramsey intriguing and beautiful. He wishes to learn about everything that makes her, well her. But with the war going on and a dangerous assignment in his future, he really shouldn’t get involved with a girl, especially Penny. But with his dreams flying high, he and Penny begin writing one another, causing there friendship to soar. But all to soon everything they come to love is disrupted, and the brokenness may just become to much to bear.
A Refuge at Highland Hall is book three in the Edwardian Brides series. This book matched up to the history of the first World War perfectly. I loved every aspect of this book, and I can’t wait to read more in this series.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
In this third and final book in the Edwardian Brides Series, you’ll be swept away to England and France in 1915 as the Ramsey family and their staff and friends face the dramatic challenges and losses of World War One, yet they also experience the hope and triumph that comes as they put their trust in God to carry them through. Penny Ramsey helps the family welcome a group of orphaned children to Highland Hall, but she soon discovers caring for them is more difficult than she’d expected. She writes to Alex Goodwin, a daring British pilot, who chases German zeppelins across the sky over the Front Line in France, and longs for the day she will see him again. You’ll be delighted by two pure and heartwarming romances: Penny and Alex, and Lydia Chambers and Marius Ritter, a lady’s maid and a prisoner of war. But most of all I hope you’ll be inspired by the characters’ examples of trusting God through the trials they face.
Fans of “Downton Abbey” will find many of the same elements in this series: A wealthy, aristocratic family living on a large English country estate with romance, conflicts, and family drama; and loyal servants with troubles and heartaches of their own.
My Review:
Penny Ramsey left her Highland Hall home for London when Britain became involved in World War I. Now she helps her dear sister, Kate with eight orphaned children, that Kate and her husband took in. And with Kate pregnant with her first child, she definitely is going to need a lot of help. One day Kate’s husband arrives just in time for tea, but he brings an old friend along. And let’s just say he’s quite a looker.
Alex Goodwin finds Penny Ramsey intriguing and beautiful. He wishes to learn about everything that makes her, well her. But with the war going on and a dangerous assignment in his future, he really shouldn’t get involved with a girl, especially Penny. But with his dreams flying high, he and Penny begin writing one another, causing there friendship to soar. But all to soon everything they come to love is disrupted, and the brokenness may just become to much to bear.
A Refuge at Highland Hall is book three in the Edwardian Brides series. This book matched up to the history of the first World War perfectly. I loved every aspect of this book, and I can’t wait to read more in this series.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
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