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Tales from Ivy Hill #2
The Ladies of Ivy Cottage
New from the Top Author of Inspirational Regency Romance
Return to Ivy Hill in The Ladies of Ivy Cottage as friendships deepen, romances blossom, and mysteries unfold.
Living with the two Miss Groves in Ivy Cottage, impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford is determined to earn her own livelihood . . . somehow. When the village women encourage her to open a subscription library with the many books she has inherited or acquired through donations, Rachel discovers two mysteries hidden among them. A man who once broke her heart helps her search for clues, but will both find more than they bargained for?
Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.
Meanwhile, life has improved at the coaching inn and Jane Bell is ready to put grief behind her. Now if only the man she misses would return--but where is he?
As the women of Ivy Hill search for answers about the past and hope for the future, might they find love along the way?
Return to Ivy Hill in The Ladies of Ivy Cottage as friendships deepen, romances blossom, and mysteries unfold.
Living with the two Miss Groves in Ivy Cottage, impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford is determined to earn her own livelihood . . . somehow. When the village women encourage her to open a subscription library with the many books she has inherited or acquired through donations, Rachel discovers two mysteries hidden among them. A man who once broke her heart helps her search for clues, but will both find more than they bargained for?
Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.
Meanwhile, life has improved at the coaching inn and Jane Bell is ready to put grief behind her. Now if only the man she misses would return--but where is he?
As the women of Ivy Hill search for answers about the past and hope for the future, might they find love along the way?
444 pages, Paperback
First published December 5, 2017
790 people are currently reading
4277 people want to read
About the author
Julie Klassen
32 books6,110 followersJulie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her books, The Silent Governess, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Midwest Book Award, the Minnesota Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award, and been a finalist in the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards and ACFW’s Carol Awards. She blogs at http://www.inspiredbylifeandfiction.com.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Julie and her husband have two sons and live in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 730 reviews
February 11, 2018
I am loving the Tales from Ivy Hill! The Ladies of Ivy Cottage is another winning story, full of charm, whimsy, and characters that I grew to love. The plot is best described as steady, flavored with issues that aren't particularly heart-stopping, but still full of heart and emotion.
Usually when a book switching between characters, I usually get impatient to leave one and get back to my favorite, but that wasn't the case here. Even though I probably do prefer Jane over the others (I'm usually loyal to the first character I "meet"), the other characters are endearing, and I loved each part of their stories, as they navigated their lives.
It was a delight to see more of Jane and Thora, but also delightful to get to know Rachel more, a character that I wasn't too sure about in the first book. I admit, when she said that she didn't care for books, I just thought there was no way I could relate to her, ha! But then, when she stepped out and started her own circulation library, I had to come around. I just loved the details about the circulating library.
Saying that the plot is steady is not to say that there were no mysteries or no romance. Indeed, some of the character surprised me, both in the revelations that were made about them, and the way they interacted with others in unexpected ways. One certain character I was just desperate to see back, and even though all things are not resolved, I have high hopes! And, oh my, this book has some of the sweetest and endearing declarations of love that just made me sigh. I'm so looking forward to the third book. In the next book, I really hope to see a happily ever after for Jane, and I can't wait to see what happens with Mercy - I thought I knew what I wanted to happen, but now I'm just not sure and can see multiple avenues. I can definitely see myself re-reading this series, and they are definitely going on my keeper shelf, which is what I say about all of Klassen's titles. Both books are on my favorites list for the year. It seems such a long wait for book three, but I know it'll be worth it!
One more note - I highly recommend reading these books in order. I think it's unfair when readers get annoyed that a book in a series doesn't stand alone. If you don't like stories with unresolved plot points, then you won't like this series. I know a lot of Christian fiction uses the term "series" very loosely (like set in the same town, or within the same family), so many CF readers come to expect that, but these books are a series in the truer sense of the word, in that, you will be confused about many things if you don't read book one first, and therefore, probably not enjoy it.
Usually when a book switching between characters, I usually get impatient to leave one and get back to my favorite, but that wasn't the case here. Even though I probably do prefer Jane over the others (I'm usually loyal to the first character I "meet"), the other characters are endearing, and I loved each part of their stories, as they navigated their lives.
It was a delight to see more of Jane and Thora, but also delightful to get to know Rachel more, a character that I wasn't too sure about in the first book. I admit, when she said that she didn't care for books, I just thought there was no way I could relate to her, ha! But then, when she stepped out and started her own circulation library, I had to come around. I just loved the details about the circulating library.
Saying that the plot is steady is not to say that there were no mysteries or no romance. Indeed, some of the character surprised me, both in the revelations that were made about them, and the way they interacted with others in unexpected ways. One certain character I was just desperate to see back, and even though all things are not resolved, I have high hopes! And, oh my, this book has some of the sweetest and endearing declarations of love that just made me sigh. I'm so looking forward to the third book. In the next book, I really hope to see a happily ever after for Jane, and I can't wait to see what happens with Mercy - I thought I knew what I wanted to happen, but now I'm just not sure and can see multiple avenues. I can definitely see myself re-reading this series, and they are definitely going on my keeper shelf, which is what I say about all of Klassen's titles. Both books are on my favorites list for the year. It seems such a long wait for book three, but I know it'll be worth it!
One more note - I highly recommend reading these books in order. I think it's unfair when readers get annoyed that a book in a series doesn't stand alone. If you don't like stories with unresolved plot points, then you won't like this series. I know a lot of Christian fiction uses the term "series" very loosely (like set in the same town, or within the same family), so many CF readers come to expect that, but these books are a series in the truer sense of the word, in that, you will be confused about many things if you don't read book one first, and therefore, probably not enjoy it.
January 24, 2021
A beautiful, graceful and elegant drama! First favourite book of 2021!
I was pleasantly surprised of how many of the individual Stories’s went in a different direction than portrayed in book one. Much better directions!
I love the community support and some of the key themes explored for example being judgmental, consequences of the past, and finding who you.
I loved to read how these ladies established their own careers.
I give 5 stars to Elizabeth Jasicki for an excellent audio performance.
Can not wait to read the final installment in the near future.
I definitely recommend :)
I was pleasantly surprised of how many of the individual Stories’s went in a different direction than portrayed in book one. Much better directions!
I love the community support and some of the key themes explored for example being judgmental, consequences of the past, and finding who you.
I loved to read how these ladies established their own careers.
I give 5 stars to Elizabeth Jasicki for an excellent audio performance.
Can not wait to read the final installment in the near future.
I definitely recommend :)
December 10, 2017
It was sheer delight to return to the village of Ivy Hill with its vast cast of characters and touch of mystery. In The Ladies of Ivy Cottage I especially enjoyed living through the life changing decisions several characters made. While not all the romances were resolved, those that did were swoon worthy and I was smiling ear to ear.
Klassen is highly talented and I look forward to the next in the Tales from Ivy Hill Series. I suspect it will be another December release...that is a long wait.
Klassen is highly talented and I look forward to the next in the Tales from Ivy Hill Series. I suspect it will be another December release...that is a long wait.
October 25, 2019
4,5⭐️
Esta vez he tenido mucho más romance que en el primero, pero no ha perdido la esencia que tanto me enamoró en esa primera parte con la demostración de lucha y supervivencia de las mujeres de la época. Me he emocionado muchísimo con esta novela y esos guiños a las novelas de Jane Austen me han fascinado, ha sido como volver a leerlas y volver a enamorarme.
Estoy deseando leer el tercero para conocer el desenlace de todo aquello que no se ha cerrado en esta Segunda parte, menudos nervios!!
Esta vez he tenido mucho más romance que en el primero, pero no ha perdido la esencia que tanto me enamoró en esa primera parte con la demostración de lucha y supervivencia de las mujeres de la época. Me he emocionado muchísimo con esta novela y esos guiños a las novelas de Jane Austen me han fascinado, ha sido como volver a leerlas y volver a enamorarme.
Estoy deseando leer el tercero para conocer el desenlace de todo aquello que no se ha cerrado en esta Segunda parte, menudos nervios!!
December 7, 2018
Oh how my heart aches for the Regency Era women of Ivy Hill. Regardless of how hard they work or try to make their way in the world, they are still subject to the whims of men and societal standards of 1820s Wiltshire, England. A woman's life was precarious outside the protection of a father or husband. For those women who strove to stand on their own through means available to them, I am ever their cheering fan.
This delightful story, (the second installment in the Tales from Ivy Hill series) is rich with stories of such women. There is impoverished gentlewoman Rachel, whose childhood home passes to a distant cousin upon her father's death. Her married sister received all of their mother's jewels and Rachel was bequeathed her father's library of books through his will which stipulated that none of the books could be sold. How does one shelter or feed themselves with only books?! The solution is a clever one and temporarily provides for Rachel's needs.
Mercy Groves and her spinster Aunt Matilda run a school for girls in Mercy's childhood home as her parents have hied off to their London home. All is well until Mercy's parents insist upon arranging a marriage for Mercy in order for her to keep the home. Otherwise, it will be given away to another sibling. Should she marry for convenience or save her heart for one truly deserving and thus lose the school and dash her dreams.
Then there's gentlewoman, Jane who, for love, married an innkeeper. Now a widow and no longer a member of the "in crowd", she receives no invitations to societal gatherings. She has carried on well her husband's business and is now in a position to make marked improvements to the property.
Most of the women in this story are part of a tremendous support network without which many would have fallen into ill health or compromising situations. They're strong, bright and compassionate. There are also those few women of means who are comfortably provided for by their husbands or husbands' wealth and who need not rely on that support network, at least for the moment. They appear smug and judgmental.
This book is considered "Christian fiction" yet the scriptural references are occasional and fitting. The romantic elements as described are chaste and tasteful. The writing style is highly descriptive and sets the scenes well; the characters are well developed and the period research is solid. For the most part, the women's stories wandered about in a gentle cadence until nearly the end of the book. At that point, I felt a rushing by the author to quickly tie up loose ends where possible and leave at least one unfinished story to be picked up in the next installment. There were few surprises but the book still satisfied and provided a diversion from contemporary life.
I am grateful to author Julie Klaasen, Baker Publishing and Goodreads First Reads for having provided a free copy of this book. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
This delightful story, (the second installment in the Tales from Ivy Hill series) is rich with stories of such women. There is impoverished gentlewoman Rachel, whose childhood home passes to a distant cousin upon her father's death. Her married sister received all of their mother's jewels and Rachel was bequeathed her father's library of books through his will which stipulated that none of the books could be sold. How does one shelter or feed themselves with only books?! The solution is a clever one and temporarily provides for Rachel's needs.
Mercy Groves and her spinster Aunt Matilda run a school for girls in Mercy's childhood home as her parents have hied off to their London home. All is well until Mercy's parents insist upon arranging a marriage for Mercy in order for her to keep the home. Otherwise, it will be given away to another sibling. Should she marry for convenience or save her heart for one truly deserving and thus lose the school and dash her dreams.
Then there's gentlewoman, Jane who, for love, married an innkeeper. Now a widow and no longer a member of the "in crowd", she receives no invitations to societal gatherings. She has carried on well her husband's business and is now in a position to make marked improvements to the property.
Most of the women in this story are part of a tremendous support network without which many would have fallen into ill health or compromising situations. They're strong, bright and compassionate. There are also those few women of means who are comfortably provided for by their husbands or husbands' wealth and who need not rely on that support network, at least for the moment. They appear smug and judgmental.
This book is considered "Christian fiction" yet the scriptural references are occasional and fitting. The romantic elements as described are chaste and tasteful. The writing style is highly descriptive and sets the scenes well; the characters are well developed and the period research is solid. For the most part, the women's stories wandered about in a gentle cadence until nearly the end of the book. At that point, I felt a rushing by the author to quickly tie up loose ends where possible and leave at least one unfinished story to be picked up in the next installment. There were few surprises but the book still satisfied and provided a diversion from contemporary life.
I am grateful to author Julie Klaasen, Baker Publishing and Goodreads First Reads for having provided a free copy of this book. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
February 1, 2018
About this book:
“Living with the two Miss Groves in Ivy Cottage, impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford is determined to earn her own livelihood . . . somehow. When the village women encourage her to open a subscription library with the many books she has inherited or acquired through donations, Rachel discovers two mysteries hidden among them. A man who once broke her heart helps her search for clues, but will both find more than they bargained for?
Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.
Meanwhile, life has improved at the coaching inn and Jane Bell is ready to put grief behind her. Now if only the man she misses would return--but where is he?
As the women of Ivy Hill search for answers about the past and hope for the future, might they find love along the way?”
Series: Book #2 in the “Tales from Ivy Hill” series. Review of the first book Here!
Spiritual Content- John 21:25 at the beginning; A few Scriptures are remembered; Prayers; Singing a hymn; Church going & a sermon; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Rachel feels uncomfortable asking God or anyone for help *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Mentions of God; Mentions of thanking & praising God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of a cathedral, churches, church going, a reverend/vicar, services, & sermons; Mentions of Heaven; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A few mentions of Christians & faiths; A few mentions of a hymn; A mention of a godsend; A couple mentions of sins;
*Note: Mentions of (what some people believe is) a witch; A couple mentions of a group of people raising altars to a type of food; A mention of something being devilishly hard to clean; A mention of a man being devilishly charming.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘dumb’, an ‘idiot’, a ‘thunder and turf!’, and three ‘dashed’s; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A bit of eye rolling; Mentions of deaths & unnatural deaths; Mentions of someone lost at sea; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of thieves, thefts, & stolen items; Mentions of vandalism & vandals; Mentions of debts & gambling; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & drunks; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of poaching, hunting, & shooting; A few mentions of prisons/jails; A few mentions of smoking, cigars, & pipes; A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of hanging meat & dead animals for food (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of mounted animal heads as décor; A mention of using pigskin bladders for an invention.
Sexual Content- two hand/wrist kisses, a cheek kiss, an almost kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss, and two detailed kisses; Wanting to be kissed (twice, up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Warmth, & Hand Holding (up to semi-detailed); Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (x3); Noticing men’s muscles (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a man and woman having a child together, but not being married (he says it was his fault); Mentions of a man being involved with a chambermaid & her being ill-used prior (she ends up pregnant; he says he’s not solely to blame and that she came to him); Mentions of wondering if a woman is a man’s paramour or if she was involved with another man; Mentions of a married man who kept a mistress & his adultery; Mentions of illegitimate children; Mentions of people thinking a woman is a prostitute (she’s not); Mentions of a woman working as a maid at a brothel; Mentions of scandals, reputations, & opposite genders being left alone with chaperones; Mentions of staring & being smitten by a pretty face; Mentions of flirting; Mentions of blushes; Mentions of romance books; A few mentions of not being ready (or being ready) to share a bed with a man; A few mentions of kissing & gathering someone in your arms; A few mentions of wedding trips/honeymoons; A few mentions of touches & embraces; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of married couples kissing; A mention of a man having a hard time keeping his hands off of a woman; A mention of women ogling men; Love, falling in love, & the emotions (x2);
*Note: Remembering a miscarriage & bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of miscarriages, stillbirths, the pain of losing children, & not being able to have children; A few mentions of a wife & baby dying in childbirth; A few mentions of a mother dying with childbed fever; A few mentions of wet nurses; A couple mentions of a girl’s dress flattering her figure; A mention of a dress revealing a girl’s thin bosom; A mention of lower necklines on popular dresses; A mention of a woman pulling coins out of her bodice; A mention of a woman keeping her valuables (coins, jewelry, etc.) in her bodice & being asked if her husband agrees; A mention of butting into a conversation.
-Rachel Ashford
-Jane Bell
-Mercy Grove, age 30
P.O.V. switches between them & Thora
Set in 1820
445 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
Like I said in the final thoughts of the first book in this series, Julie Klassen has always been a book-by-book author for me; meaning I have to know the book cover or read the actual book to find out about the content.
This one?
Hmm.
While overall clean, there were such comments I didn’t like and thought that they didn’t need to be added.
My main problem, however, was keeping up with all the characters. It’s been nearly a year since I first read the first book, and oh boy, there’s a ton of characters to keep up with.
At first, I wasn’t a fan of Rachel or Jane, but I really liked Mercy’s parts. It was fun to see non-reader Rachel turn into a reader. I wasn’t necessarily a fan of how Rachel had three males interested in her at times, but then the men would divert their attention to one of our other main ladies. Made those boys look like they were trying to figure out who they each liked best or were too friendly for the historical time period. And in all honest, I didn’t really like any of them. At one point or another, they each took turns feeling like a cad (okay, really only two of the four/five had their cad moments) to me. There were quite a few parts that seemed inaccurate for the time period this novel was set in. I’ll admit I was disappointed with all the birth secrets/illegitimate children plot lines. I can see one, but it seemed very common in this book with these characters and their families. I think it could have been something else and not an easy out like that.
There’s just so many plots going on in this large novel that made this book feel daunting to read. Maybe it would have helped reading these books back-to-back, but really wasn’t an enjoyable as I remembering the first book being.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*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 (Bethany House) for this honest review.
“Living with the two Miss Groves in Ivy Cottage, impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford is determined to earn her own livelihood . . . somehow. When the village women encourage her to open a subscription library with the many books she has inherited or acquired through donations, Rachel discovers two mysteries hidden among them. A man who once broke her heart helps her search for clues, but will both find more than they bargained for?
Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.
Meanwhile, life has improved at the coaching inn and Jane Bell is ready to put grief behind her. Now if only the man she misses would return--but where is he?
As the women of Ivy Hill search for answers about the past and hope for the future, might they find love along the way?”
Series: Book #2 in the “Tales from Ivy Hill” series. Review of the first book Here!
Spiritual Content- John 21:25 at the beginning; A few Scriptures are remembered; Prayers; Singing a hymn; Church going & a sermon; Talks about God; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Rachel feels uncomfortable asking God or anyone for help *Spoiler* *End of Spoiler*; Mentions of God; Mentions of thanking & praising God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of a cathedral, churches, church going, a reverend/vicar, services, & sermons; Mentions of Heaven; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A few mentions of Christians & faiths; A few mentions of a hymn; A mention of a godsend; A couple mentions of sins;
*Note: Mentions of (what some people believe is) a witch; A couple mentions of a group of people raising altars to a type of food; A mention of something being devilishly hard to clean; A mention of a man being devilishly charming.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a form of ‘dumb’, an ‘idiot’, a ‘thunder and turf!’, and three ‘dashed’s; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A bit of eye rolling; Mentions of deaths & unnatural deaths; Mentions of someone lost at sea; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of thieves, thefts, & stolen items; Mentions of vandalism & vandals; Mentions of debts & gambling; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, & drunks; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of poaching, hunting, & shooting; A few mentions of prisons/jails; A few mentions of smoking, cigars, & pipes; A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of hanging meat & dead animals for food (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of mounted animal heads as décor; A mention of using pigskin bladders for an invention.
Sexual Content- two hand/wrist kisses, a cheek kiss, an almost kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss, and two detailed kisses; Wanting to be kissed (twice, up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Warmth, & Hand Holding (up to semi-detailed); Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (x3); Noticing men’s muscles (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a man and woman having a child together, but not being married (he says it was his fault); Mentions of a man being involved with a chambermaid & her being ill-used prior (she ends up pregnant; he says he’s not solely to blame and that she came to him); Mentions of wondering if a woman is a man’s paramour or if she was involved with another man; Mentions of a married man who kept a mistress & his adultery; Mentions of illegitimate children; Mentions of people thinking a woman is a prostitute (she’s not); Mentions of a woman working as a maid at a brothel; Mentions of scandals, reputations, & opposite genders being left alone with chaperones; Mentions of staring & being smitten by a pretty face; Mentions of flirting; Mentions of blushes; Mentions of romance books; A few mentions of not being ready (or being ready) to share a bed with a man; A few mentions of kissing & gathering someone in your arms; A few mentions of wedding trips/honeymoons; A few mentions of touches & embraces; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of married couples kissing; A mention of a man having a hard time keeping his hands off of a woman; A mention of women ogling men; Love, falling in love, & the emotions (x2);
*Note: Remembering a miscarriage & bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of miscarriages, stillbirths, the pain of losing children, & not being able to have children; A few mentions of a wife & baby dying in childbirth; A few mentions of a mother dying with childbed fever; A few mentions of wet nurses; A couple mentions of a girl’s dress flattering her figure; A mention of a dress revealing a girl’s thin bosom; A mention of lower necklines on popular dresses; A mention of a woman pulling coins out of her bodice; A mention of a woman keeping her valuables (coins, jewelry, etc.) in her bodice & being asked if her husband agrees; A mention of butting into a conversation.
-Rachel Ashford
-Jane Bell
-Mercy Grove, age 30
P.O.V. switches between them & Thora
Set in 1820
445 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
Like I said in the final thoughts of the first book in this series, Julie Klassen has always been a book-by-book author for me; meaning I have to know the book cover or read the actual book to find out about the content.
This one?
Hmm.
While overall clean, there were such comments I didn’t like and thought that they didn’t need to be added.
My main problem, however, was keeping up with all the characters. It’s been nearly a year since I first read the first book, and oh boy, there’s a ton of characters to keep up with.
At first, I wasn’t a fan of Rachel or Jane, but I really liked Mercy’s parts. It was fun to see non-reader Rachel turn into a reader. I wasn’t necessarily a fan of how Rachel had three males interested in her at times, but then the men would divert their attention to one of our other main ladies. Made those boys look like they were trying to figure out who they each liked best or were too friendly for the historical time period. And in all honest, I didn’t really like any of them. At one point or another, they each took turns feeling like a cad (okay, really only two of the four/five had their cad moments) to me. There were quite a few parts that seemed inaccurate for the time period this novel was set in. I’ll admit I was disappointed with all the birth secrets/illegitimate children plot lines. I can see one, but it seemed very common in this book with these characters and their families. I think it could have been something else and not an easy out like that.
There’s just so many plots going on in this large novel that made this book feel daunting to read. Maybe it would have helped reading these books back-to-back, but really wasn’t an enjoyable as I remembering the first book being.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*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 (Bethany House) for this honest review.
January 19, 2018
Just lovely! It's not fast-paced or terribly exciting, but the women of Ivy Hill have a gentle strength that made this book a pleasure to read. I recommend reading the first book in the series, The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, to more fully understand and appreciate the backgrounds of the various community members. The perspective switches often between Jane (the innkeeper), Rachel (the librarian), Mercy (the teacher), and Thora (Jane's mother-in-law). We learn more about Timothy, Rachel and Jane's childhood friend and beau, Mrs. Haverhill, the mysterious recluse, and Mr. Grant, the businessman, and their pasts and secrets are slowly revealed throughout the book in intriguing layers which propelled the story forward. By the conclusion of the book we have happy endings for some, and interesting prospects for others, making me wish the third book was already out! The Ladies of Ivy Cottage is definitely a book to savor as it's read.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
November 1, 2022
The Ladies of Ivy Cottage by Julie Klassen is a charming story of choice and second chances. It's refreshing to read stories with protagonists who are "past their prime" in the view of the society of the day. Fans of #JaneAusten will relish the role the novel Persuasion plays in the plot. As with the first book in this series, the little episodes taking place with secondary characters woven throughout are just as endearing as the main arc.
June 26, 2022
The second book in the series was just as lovely as the first. In this one, the focus moved away from Jane and the Bell, all the characters had their moments as the town of Ivy Hill went about its business. Again, there were homages to Austen, especially Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion, and I got a strong Middlemarch vibe. There were some surprising developments for characters that I thought I knew in the first book. Rachel got her ending, and I look forward to the next installment to see what happens with Mercy.
January 11, 2018
Julie Klassen is an "auto-buy" author for me. She is one of my favorite authors and I've read all of her books. Her newest book, "The Ladies of Ivy Cottage," lived up to the expectations I have of a Julie Klassen book!
This book is the second book in the "Tales from Ivy Hill" series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading the series in order, as there is a lot of backstory one would miss if they read out of order. Ms. Klassen does have a helpful website dedicated to the series, complete with a map and list of characters (http://talesfromivyhill.com/). It was hard at first to remember all of the characters and their backstories, but Ms. Klassen does a good job of refreshing the reader's memory. Once I saw her post about this website devoted to Ivy Hill, the character list helped me out a lot as well! I got to know all of these characters again, I fell in love with them and felt like they were my friends and neighbors.
This series overall is very reminiscent of the TV series "Lark Rise to Candleford." Everyone in the village of Ivy Hill knows one another, helps each other out and knows everyone's "business." As a former librarian and a book lover, I found it delightful to read about one of our main characters, Rachel, establishing and running a lending library. I also love that some of the characters pray and recall Scripture.
Ivy Hill is an old, quaint English village with a plethora of characters, many of which you will fall in love with. This book gives one a warm, cozy feeling. There is even some mystery thrown in. "The Ladies of Ivy Cottage” has it all and I highly recommend it!
Content: This is a clean read. I would give it a PG rating for a few minor things. Some examples are: a character mutters a swear word but the word is not actually used; mention of a woman's bosom, mention of a dalliance and a child born out of wedlock; use of the word “prostitute;” talk of a woman being a man's mistress; talk of stillbirths and miscarriages; talk of sharing a bed.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian Fiction; Historical; Regency; Romance
I want to thank Julie Klassen and Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
This book is the second book in the "Tales from Ivy Hill" series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading the series in order, as there is a lot of backstory one would miss if they read out of order. Ms. Klassen does have a helpful website dedicated to the series, complete with a map and list of characters (http://talesfromivyhill.com/). It was hard at first to remember all of the characters and their backstories, but Ms. Klassen does a good job of refreshing the reader's memory. Once I saw her post about this website devoted to Ivy Hill, the character list helped me out a lot as well! I got to know all of these characters again, I fell in love with them and felt like they were my friends and neighbors.
This series overall is very reminiscent of the TV series "Lark Rise to Candleford." Everyone in the village of Ivy Hill knows one another, helps each other out and knows everyone's "business." As a former librarian and a book lover, I found it delightful to read about one of our main characters, Rachel, establishing and running a lending library. I also love that some of the characters pray and recall Scripture.
Ivy Hill is an old, quaint English village with a plethora of characters, many of which you will fall in love with. This book gives one a warm, cozy feeling. There is even some mystery thrown in. "The Ladies of Ivy Cottage” has it all and I highly recommend it!
Content: This is a clean read. I would give it a PG rating for a few minor things. Some examples are: a character mutters a swear word but the word is not actually used; mention of a woman's bosom, mention of a dalliance and a child born out of wedlock; use of the word “prostitute;” talk of a woman being a man's mistress; talk of stillbirths and miscarriages; talk of sharing a bed.
Rating: I give this book 5 stars!
Genre: Christian Fiction; Historical; Regency; Romance
I want to thank Julie Klassen and Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
February 3, 2019
I liked this book better than the first in the series, I think. Maybe that was because we already knew the characters involved (at least for the most part), and the story lines could continue naturally from where they left off, with only a bit of back story to help out.
I think I liked Rachel's growth the most in this book: she went from not wanting to accept charity, and not really thinking God was interested in helping her, to understanding what true grace and charity actually are, and trusting God's plans for her life, and even to sharing those ideas about charity and grace with others! It's been said that charity is the pure love of Christ, and I think that goes perfectly hand in hand with the idea of grace. We do not deserve Christ's love and grace, and yet He freely gives them to us, and we should, in turn, seek to not only to bless others, but to accept blessings ourselves.
I am really looking forward to seeing what happens next for Jane, Rachel, and Mercy!
I think I liked Rachel's growth the most in this book: she went from not wanting to accept charity, and not really thinking God was interested in helping her, to understanding what true grace and charity actually are, and trusting God's plans for her life, and even to sharing those ideas about charity and grace with others! It's been said that charity is the pure love of Christ, and I think that goes perfectly hand in hand with the idea of grace. We do not deserve Christ's love and grace, and yet He freely gives them to us, and we should, in turn, seek to not only to bless others, but to accept blessings ourselves.
I am really looking forward to seeing what happens next for Jane, Rachel, and Mercy!
December 10, 2020
4.5/5?! Or even a full five stars?
Like, it didn't WOWWWWW me but it was perfectly awesome in every way, so I might go with 4.5 for personal preference and 5 for AWESOME!
<3 <3 <3 Jane.
I forgot who Gabriel was between books. *facepalm*
Rachel is such a sweetheart! <3 And, honestly, I can't help but love Mercy because she shares a name with the sweetest little girl in the world (who just happens to be my niece).
Ummm ... yeah. These are great because even if you don't ADORE one plotline (e.g. I don't care about Rachel too terribly much) then there are five others to choose from. ;) I'm sad that I'm about to read the last book in this series! I so want it to go on ...
Also, Timothy, dude. You know how to announce your intentions. But I think Justina must have helped you. Did she help you!? That feels like a "my sister helped me" thing. xP
Like, it didn't WOWWWWW me but it was perfectly awesome in every way, so I might go with 4.5 for personal preference and 5 for AWESOME!
<3 <3 <3 Jane.
I forgot who Gabriel was between books. *facepalm*
Rachel is such a sweetheart! <3 And, honestly, I can't help but love Mercy because she shares a name with the sweetest little girl in the world (who just happens to be my niece).
Ummm ... yeah. These are great because even if you don't ADORE one plotline (e.g. I don't care about Rachel too terribly much) then there are five others to choose from. ;) I'm sad that I'm about to read the last book in this series! I so want it to go on ...
Also, Timothy, dude. You know how to announce your intentions. But I think Justina must have helped you. Did she help you!? That feels like a "my sister helped me" thing. xP
April 14, 2023
Same rating as for Book 1, The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, 3,5 stars rounded up to 4 and mostly the same impressions and enjoyment.
I really liked to read about how a subscription library is opening in the village.
The scope and space widens a bit as we are treated to more appearance of the gentry families of the neighbourhood and there are quite a few references to Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion.
My review of Book 1.
I really liked to read about how a subscription library is opening in the village.
The scope and space widens a bit as we are treated to more appearance of the gentry families of the neighbourhood and there are quite a few references to Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion.
My review of Book 1.
November 28, 2018
I loved this return visit to Ivy Hill. Julie Klassen has done a wonderful job bringing this world to life. The characters are very real. I feel their struggles and root for them the whole time I'm reading. I can't wait to see where this journey takes them in the next installment. I highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy quaint village settings and British period drama.
I received this book for free for the purpose of review.
July 6, 2019
Julie Klassen’s return trip to Ivy Hill was even more enjoyable than the first time around. The pace was sedate, but the plot was intriguing, and I looked forward to picking the book back up whenever life got in the way. There is still a romance or two left to develop in the finale but those that came to fruition were oh so satisfying. The inhabitants of Ivy Hill have charmed their way into my heart and I am eager to see them again.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
May 18, 2020
Another quiet village tale with much of the same charm from the first book, but a good bit more heartbreak as change hits right at the heart of town. The ladies are facing losing Ivy Cottage and it seems life will never be the same...
February 5, 2019
I enjoyed the second book in this series a lot more than the first. Not sure if it was because I was listening to it, but I think knowing the characters from book 1 and having my own happy ending in mind for them, added to this. Due to the character driven story, the pace is still slow, but this time I enjoyed it.
Some threads that started in book 1, was finished in this story, specifically the relationship between Rachel and Jane. We finally understood what happened that caused the rift and was lovely to see the reconciliation between these two women. Rachel had a lot of growth to go through in this story and I loved how her love story ended.
Mercy I adore and my heart broke for her when her mother forces a decision on her. I think that is the saddest part of the time period, that independent women were forced to make decisions which they otherwise would not make.
Jane, oh Jane, I'm really hoping that she will not let fear hold her back from a happy ending.
Oh! And Patrick totally surprised me in this story!
I'm looking forward to seeing what life has planned for Jane and Mercy. I have my own secret wishes for both of them.
Narrator: I really enjoyed listening to Elizabeth Jasicki. Her voice added to the authenticity of the time period, plus she had so many voices for all the characters (and there is a lot) that I could clearly distinguish between who was speaking.
Some threads that started in book 1, was finished in this story, specifically the relationship between Rachel and Jane. We finally understood what happened that caused the rift and was lovely to see the reconciliation between these two women. Rachel had a lot of growth to go through in this story and I loved how her love story ended.
Mercy I adore and my heart broke for her when her mother forces a decision on her. I think that is the saddest part of the time period, that independent women were forced to make decisions which they otherwise would not make.
Jane, oh Jane, I'm really hoping that she will not let fear hold her back from a happy ending.
Oh! And Patrick totally surprised me in this story!
I'm looking forward to seeing what life has planned for Jane and Mercy. I have my own secret wishes for both of them.
Narrator: I really enjoyed listening to Elizabeth Jasicki. Her voice added to the authenticity of the time period, plus she had so many voices for all the characters (and there is a lot) that I could clearly distinguish between who was speaking.
February 21, 2022
I've returned to Ivy Hill. I adored this story. It is truly a jewel of a book. Beautiful and heartfelt it captured me and wouldn't let go, as I continue to see this series as a Netflix show. (Maybe one day🤞)
Mercy was so much fun to get to know in this second installment. She was raw and real and I deeply connected to her. I also loved revisiting Thora, Jane, Rachel, and others.
I was worried at first that my fav love interest for Jane would be absent and then he came back at the end! And my silly reader heart screamed with delight. Gabriel is back!!!
Sadly, I felt the pacing was a bit odd at points, and one character, who will remain unnamed, began to push my buttons. But it truly was a strong second book.
To be serious, this book went deeper into relationships I love and Ivy Hill's past. Once more I was entertained and touched by this slow-moving drama.
I hope to revisit Ivy Hill soon.
(Book one review coming soon..)
Mercy was so much fun to get to know in this second installment. She was raw and real and I deeply connected to her. I also loved revisiting Thora, Jane, Rachel, and others.
I was worried at first that my fav love interest for Jane would be absent and then he came back at the end! And my silly reader heart screamed with delight. Gabriel is back!!!
Sadly, I felt the pacing was a bit odd at points, and one character, who will remain unnamed, began to push my buttons. But it truly was a strong second book.
To be serious, this book went deeper into relationships I love and Ivy Hill's past. Once more I was entertained and touched by this slow-moving drama.
I hope to revisit Ivy Hill soon.
(Book one review coming soon..)
November 8, 2020
I was swept away into another delightful tale set in Ivy Hill. I honestly think the author has captured that Victorian, British vibe that is true to life. Living in England as an American has been a weird experience and one of those is being perhaps slightly too critical of American writers writing about England ;) Well done to the author for keeping me from feeling guilty in my critics. I truly loved seeing more of Mercy, Rachel, and Jane's story. All the fine gentleman made it even sweeter to read. I mean, I did feel a bit too much drama with all the emotions that come with gentleman and lady attractions, but once I got past a few chapters in the middle, all flowed better.
I can't wait to read the last of the series and find out about Jane's decision ;)
I can't wait to read the last of the series and find out about Jane's decision ;)
April 4, 2024
4.5/5 🌟♥️
Si el anterior me gustó este no se queda atrás. Una delicia costumbrista un poquito más romántico que el primero 😍.
Si el anterior me gustó este no se queda atrás. Una delicia costumbrista un poquito más romántico que el primero 😍.
September 26, 2018
A Continuing Saga of Strong and Self-Sufficient Women!
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Regency Romance, Historical Fiction
SETTING: 1820 Wiltshire, England
MAIN CHARACTERS:
- Rachel Ashford: With her father passed away and his heir displacing her from her family home, Rachel contemplates a marriage of convenience or earning her livelihood.
- Sir Timothy Brockwell: Childhood playmate of Rachel’s and Jane’s. Eight years ago he courted Rachel, but then broke it off because of family duty.
- Mercy Grove: Plain and unmarried, Mercy works as headmistress of an all-girl school. Her parents are urging her to marry since she is practically a spinster.
- Jane Fairmont Bell: A widow running her husband’s inn. Jane carries her own personal grief and worries that prohibit her from contemplating sharing her life with someone else.
SYNOPSIS:
Picking up after the close of The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, Book Two in the Tales From Ivy Hill series follows the lives of Jane, Rachel, Mercy, and many of the inhabitants of the charming village of Ivy Hill. In this book we follow Rachel as she strives to follow her independent and resourceful friends and establish her own business. Her father left her his extensive book collection with instructions not to sell them, so instead Rachel decides to loan out the books and create Ivy Hills’ first circulating library. Can her new business be a success? Will one of her suitors influence Rachel to marry instead?
NOTE: This is Book Two in Ms. Klassen’s Tales from Ivy Hill series. I definitely recommend reading Book One – The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill first to fully understand the history and relationship of all these characters.
WHAT I LOVED:
- Returning to Ivy Hill: I love that Julie Klassen is writing this series. In the first book we are introduced to the bucolic and busy village of Ivy Hill. A village we get to know very well, including many of its interesting and charming inhabitants. It’s wonderful to revisit this bustling hamlet and spend more time within its environs!
Several Simultaneous Stories: I love how this second book of the series spends almost equal time with each of our main characters – Rachel, Jane, and Mercy. Instead of focusing on one heroine per book, Ms. Klassen has opted to flesh out the stories of these three women throughout the whole series. While Rachel may have been a little more in the spotlight in this tale, readers saw plenty of Mercy and Jane still. And it looks like some things remain unresolved for them at the close of this story…
- So Many Suitors!: With Julie Klassen’s novels, it is a guarantee you will see some romance! But with this series it is often hard to predict wha the romantic pairings will be because for each female character there were almost always two male characters interested/pursuing them! The ratio of men to women in Ivy Hill is very favorable, no? 😉 I loved how many of the suitors were likable and worthy. It makes it a little bit conflicting for the reader to decide which way they want things to go! 😉 I guess readers like to be “crossed in love” too!
- Alternatives to Marriage: It is so interesting to encounter these women who are not actively seeking marriage as their goal. Although they are not adverse to marriage and children, they realize that it is not the only course their life must take. They forge a different path and learn to depend on themselves for their own livelihood. It was so interesting and inspiring to see the various ways women were “breaking the mold” in this series. Not just Jane, Rachel, and Mercy, but each member of The Ladies Tea and Knitting Society as well. I think Jane Austen would heartily approve!
- Julie Klassen Signatures: I love Ms. Klassen’s well-drawn and admirable heroines – and how this series gives us 3 for 1! I love finding all her echoes and nods to Jane Austen – there is quite a lovely Persuasion bit in this story that made my heart melt! And I love the mystery and intrigue she intertwines into each tale – it is always amusing to speculate the answers and wait for the reveal!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
While I enjoyed Rachel’s story, out of the three women, she may be the one with whom I feel the least connected. I’m greatly looking forward to seeing more of Jane and Mercy in the next book!
CONCLUSION:
With The Ladies of Ivy Cottage, Julie Klassen continues her thoughtful and enchanting series that features courageous women and a charming village combined together for stories of strength, overcoming life’s challenges, and bravely starting over.
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Regency Romance, Historical Fiction
SETTING: 1820 Wiltshire, England
MAIN CHARACTERS:
- Rachel Ashford: With her father passed away and his heir displacing her from her family home, Rachel contemplates a marriage of convenience or earning her livelihood.
- Sir Timothy Brockwell: Childhood playmate of Rachel’s and Jane’s. Eight years ago he courted Rachel, but then broke it off because of family duty.
- Mercy Grove: Plain and unmarried, Mercy works as headmistress of an all-girl school. Her parents are urging her to marry since she is practically a spinster.
- Jane Fairmont Bell: A widow running her husband’s inn. Jane carries her own personal grief and worries that prohibit her from contemplating sharing her life with someone else.
SYNOPSIS:
Picking up after the close of The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, Book Two in the Tales From Ivy Hill series follows the lives of Jane, Rachel, Mercy, and many of the inhabitants of the charming village of Ivy Hill. In this book we follow Rachel as she strives to follow her independent and resourceful friends and establish her own business. Her father left her his extensive book collection with instructions not to sell them, so instead Rachel decides to loan out the books and create Ivy Hills’ first circulating library. Can her new business be a success? Will one of her suitors influence Rachel to marry instead?
NOTE: This is Book Two in Ms. Klassen’s Tales from Ivy Hill series. I definitely recommend reading Book One – The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill first to fully understand the history and relationship of all these characters.
WHAT I LOVED:
- Returning to Ivy Hill: I love that Julie Klassen is writing this series. In the first book we are introduced to the bucolic and busy village of Ivy Hill. A village we get to know very well, including many of its interesting and charming inhabitants. It’s wonderful to revisit this bustling hamlet and spend more time within its environs!
Several Simultaneous Stories: I love how this second book of the series spends almost equal time with each of our main characters – Rachel, Jane, and Mercy. Instead of focusing on one heroine per book, Ms. Klassen has opted to flesh out the stories of these three women throughout the whole series. While Rachel may have been a little more in the spotlight in this tale, readers saw plenty of Mercy and Jane still. And it looks like some things remain unresolved for them at the close of this story…
- So Many Suitors!: With Julie Klassen’s novels, it is a guarantee you will see some romance! But with this series it is often hard to predict wha the romantic pairings will be because for each female character there were almost always two male characters interested/pursuing them! The ratio of men to women in Ivy Hill is very favorable, no? 😉 I loved how many of the suitors were likable and worthy. It makes it a little bit conflicting for the reader to decide which way they want things to go! 😉 I guess readers like to be “crossed in love” too!
- Alternatives to Marriage: It is so interesting to encounter these women who are not actively seeking marriage as their goal. Although they are not adverse to marriage and children, they realize that it is not the only course their life must take. They forge a different path and learn to depend on themselves for their own livelihood. It was so interesting and inspiring to see the various ways women were “breaking the mold” in this series. Not just Jane, Rachel, and Mercy, but each member of The Ladies Tea and Knitting Society as well. I think Jane Austen would heartily approve!
- Julie Klassen Signatures: I love Ms. Klassen’s well-drawn and admirable heroines – and how this series gives us 3 for 1! I love finding all her echoes and nods to Jane Austen – there is quite a lovely Persuasion bit in this story that made my heart melt! And I love the mystery and intrigue she intertwines into each tale – it is always amusing to speculate the answers and wait for the reveal!
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
While I enjoyed Rachel’s story, out of the three women, she may be the one with whom I feel the least connected. I’m greatly looking forward to seeing more of Jane and Mercy in the next book!
CONCLUSION:
With The Ladies of Ivy Cottage, Julie Klassen continues her thoughtful and enchanting series that features courageous women and a charming village combined together for stories of strength, overcoming life’s challenges, and bravely starting over.
Austenesque Reviews
February 10, 2019
I enjoyed once again meeting the group of ladies from Ivy Hill as well as their neighbors. Ivy Hill is a small quaint English town with numerous interwoven relationships. The friendships deepen and romance is blossoming for each of the ladies, but each must decide which is the right man for her. A hint of mystery permeates the town with the arrival of previous parlor maid, Hetty and her daughter, Betsy. And grows larger with the sudden emergence of a reclusive woman who has lived in the town for over 30 years. Klassen leaves us hanging wondering what will happen to the remaining single ladies in book 3. An enjoyable English series that I look forward to concluding.
December 20, 2017
Living with the two Miss Groves in Ivy Cottage, impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford is determined to earn her own livelihood . . . somehow.
Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.
Return to Ivy Hill in The Ladies of Ivy Cottage as friendships deepen, romances blossom, and mysteries unfold.
The Ladies of Ivy Cottage is the second book in Julie Klassen's Ivy Hill series. I enjoyed the first book, but this one was even better. I loved reading about the different characters in the village of Ivy Hill. This time around the main focus is on Rachel and Mercy and I found their stories pretty compelling. The way Rachel ends up supporting herself was brilliant and I enjoyed reading about her as she started this endeavor and eventually gained more confidence in herself. Mercy was also an interesting character to read about. I loved how she cared so much for the girls in her school, and felt for her as she struggled with wanting a family of her own.
There is more romance in this book and quite a bit more focus on religion, both of which were woven into the story really well without being overly romantic or preachy. As for the romance, I loved the way Rachel's love interest ends up declaring his love for her, even though I wanted to hit him over the head few times along the way. Also Jane, who was the focus of book one finds love as well, and I'm just going to say that I love him, and one scene in particular was very romantic.
There are some plot threads that have not been resolved, Mercy's story being one of them, so I am eagerly looking forward to the next book. This book felt a bit like reading a classic at times. If you like books like Cranford, or Jane Austen's books you might like this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Bethany House for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Rachel's friend and hostess, Mercy Grove, has given up thoughts of suitors and fills her days managing her girls' school. So when several men take an interest in Ivy Cottage, she assumes pretty Miss Ashford is the cause. Exactly what--or who--has captured each man's attention? The truth may surprise them all.
Return to Ivy Hill in The Ladies of Ivy Cottage as friendships deepen, romances blossom, and mysteries unfold.
The Ladies of Ivy Cottage is the second book in Julie Klassen's Ivy Hill series. I enjoyed the first book, but this one was even better. I loved reading about the different characters in the village of Ivy Hill. This time around the main focus is on Rachel and Mercy and I found their stories pretty compelling. The way Rachel ends up supporting herself was brilliant and I enjoyed reading about her as she started this endeavor and eventually gained more confidence in herself. Mercy was also an interesting character to read about. I loved how she cared so much for the girls in her school, and felt for her as she struggled with wanting a family of her own.
There is more romance in this book and quite a bit more focus on religion, both of which were woven into the story really well without being overly romantic or preachy. As for the romance, I loved the way Rachel's love interest ends up declaring his love for her, even though I wanted to hit him over the head few times along the way. Also Jane, who was the focus of book one finds love as well, and I'm just going to say that I love him, and one scene in particular was very romantic.
There are some plot threads that have not been resolved, Mercy's story being one of them, so I am eagerly looking forward to the next book. This book felt a bit like reading a classic at times. If you like books like Cranford, or Jane Austen's books you might like this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Bethany House for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
February 19, 2021
What’s not to love about this book? It was a great continuation of the relationships and lives of those who we met in the first book, but this book fleshes out the depths of their personalities even more. There’s a circulation library, so it has a very bookish feel, and there are surprises, tenderness, resolved mysteries, and renewed declarations of love, all seamlessly penned into each page. I love that this series feels like one huge, glorious book. Oh, did I mention the Klassen interweaves some Jane Austen books and quotes into this story too? If you like gentle, small town/village stories about life and love, I think you would love this series.
April 2, 2018
About 3/4ths of the way through I realized this wasn't the book on my to-read shelf but its sequel.
Which explains a lot. I'm adding an extra star because I feel I should have noticed that earlier and it would have cleared up a lot of my frustration with this book. (So many characters! No real introductions! Random characters brought in half way through!)
Despite being thick, a fast read. Sets up for a third book in the series so I guess its main fault is simply feeling squashed. It ties up some loose ends but leaves several strands for the next one.
Which explains a lot. I'm adding an extra star because I feel I should have noticed that earlier and it would have cleared up a lot of my frustration with this book. (So many characters! No real introductions! Random characters brought in half way through!)
Despite being thick, a fast read. Sets up for a third book in the series so I guess its main fault is simply feeling squashed. It ties up some loose ends but leaves several strands for the next one.
October 28, 2019
En el anterior pedía más romance y en este ha llegado, así que muy contenta por esa parte.
Quizás en algún momento la trama no avanzaba mucho, aunque duró poco, y la forma de contarlo es tan bonita que se me olvidaba. Me ha gustado reencontrarme con los personajes y seguir viendo esa sororidad maravillosa.
Me quedo con muchas ganas de leer el tercero.
Próximamente reseña en https://rincondemarlau.blogspot.com
Quizás en algún momento la trama no avanzaba mucho, aunque duró poco, y la forma de contarlo es tan bonita que se me olvidaba. Me ha gustado reencontrarme con los personajes y seguir viendo esa sororidad maravillosa.
Me quedo con muchas ganas de leer el tercero.
Próximamente reseña en https://rincondemarlau.blogspot.com
February 21, 2018
It was enjoyable to return to Ivy Hill and watch the development of the characters through this book. These books are a quiet, gentle ride through Jane Austen's time period in England. Much is happening, but with the help of friends and faith, the characters overcome. This series reminds me of Jan Karon's Mitford series, only in early 1800s England.
December 27, 2017
I absolutely loved this! ❤️ I can not explain the total pleasure I feel reading a story by Julie Klassen. I love everything about Ivy Hill and all the wonderful characters. It was so sweet and I can’t wait for book three! 😍
August 30, 2018
The continuing story of Ivy Hill. This ones main focus in on Rachel and Sir Timothy with other characters stories intertwined. Mystery and Romance make this story engaging and a delightful read. I look forward to reading the next book!
December 24, 2018
This series should be read in order.
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