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The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall
September, 1939. The moon shines silver on the looming yew trees. Thinking of her fiancé, fighting for his life and country in the war, breaks Eleanor’s heart, but also gives her courage. She takes a deep breath, picks up her camera, and follows the dancing lights into the maze.
Present day. With her little brother Missing in Action, gardener Megan Taylor runs from her grief to take a job at Foxfield Hall – a centuries-old place full of myths and folklore – restoring the wild maze in the overgrown gardens. Throwing herself into shaping the tangled ivy, Megan soon becomes drawn into the mystery of Lady Eleanor Fairfax, the Hall’s most famous resident… the villagers say she disappeared without trace at the Harvest Festival in 1939, leaving behind a grieving father and a heartbroken fiancé.
Leafing through delicate old newspaper cuttings and gazing at an ornately framed portrait of the missing woman, Megan is full of questions. Although no body was ever found, could Eleanor have been murdered? Did she run away, unwilling to marry the man who loved her? Or, with her father working at the War Office, did Eleanor stumble upon a secret she shouldn’t have?
Then, one night under a full moon, a mesmerising light inexplicably draws her to the entrance of the maze. Megan is filled with a strange certainty that, if she follows it into the shadows, it will lead to the truth about Eleanor… but could Megan herself be the next occupant of Foxfield Hall to be lost forever?
A spellbinding, magical and addictive tale about the mysterious and ancient legends at the heart of the English countryside, and how to find those who are lost.
Present day. With her little brother Missing in Action, gardener Megan Taylor runs from her grief to take a job at Foxfield Hall – a centuries-old place full of myths and folklore – restoring the wild maze in the overgrown gardens. Throwing herself into shaping the tangled ivy, Megan soon becomes drawn into the mystery of Lady Eleanor Fairfax, the Hall’s most famous resident… the villagers say she disappeared without trace at the Harvest Festival in 1939, leaving behind a grieving father and a heartbroken fiancé.
Leafing through delicate old newspaper cuttings and gazing at an ornately framed portrait of the missing woman, Megan is full of questions. Although no body was ever found, could Eleanor have been murdered? Did she run away, unwilling to marry the man who loved her? Or, with her father working at the War Office, did Eleanor stumble upon a secret she shouldn’t have?
Then, one night under a full moon, a mesmerising light inexplicably draws her to the entrance of the maze. Megan is filled with a strange certainty that, if she follows it into the shadows, it will lead to the truth about Eleanor… but could Megan herself be the next occupant of Foxfield Hall to be lost forever?
A spellbinding, magical and addictive tale about the mysterious and ancient legends at the heart of the English countryside, and how to find those who are lost.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2021
314 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Thorne
12 books250 followersJessica Thorne watched far too much sci-fi and read far too much fantasy at an impressionable age. And it was awesome. She writes fantasy and sci-fi romance with a steampunk edge and just refuses to face reality.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 27, 2021
The perfect blend of historical fiction and fantasy, The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall includes:
➜ Alternating timelines: 1939 and 2019
➜ Magic, witches, and ghosts
➜ Local legends and folklore
➜ A sapphic twist on Arthur and Guinevere
➜ Strong female friendships
➜ Letters from the past
➜ The potential to change the future
➜ Lots of foxes 🦊
I loved this book . I requested an ARC on a whim in an attempt to expand my reading list into other genres, and I found that the historical/fantasy combo was just what I needed. It included familiar fantastical elements I love, all with a historical twist.
The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall alternates between two POVs of women who reside there – Ellie in 1939, and Megan in 2019. Both have ties to war and loss and are struggling with recent changes in their lives. Shortly after starting her new job at the manor, Megan follows the mysterious green lights in the garden and finds herself transported back to 1939, where she becomes friends with Ellie. As the women get to know one another, they decide they must solve the mystery of Ellie’s disappearance before that fateful day comes to pass again. All of it seems tied to local legends surrounding the house’s connection to Arthurian legend and three witches of old.
Megan and Ellie both had distinct POVs with unique internal conflicts and lovable personalities. Their friendship and the subsequent effects they had on each other’s lives was heartwarming and at times more emotional than either of their romantic subplots. Their romances, however, were equally as easy to root for, from Ellie’s fighter pilot fiance David to Megan’s crush on Nora, one of the hall's trustees with family ties to the property.
I loved the magic and folklore surrounding Foxfield Hall and how it ultimately wove the characters and legend together. As you read, you unravel the secrets behind the magic alongside the characters that gave the story, on top of everything else it successfully delivers, a delightful mystery vibe. By the end I could not put the book down because I had to see how it ended and whether my predictions were correct!
If you’re looking for a unique story that successfully combines elements of other genres and will leave you with a happy heart and smiling face, look no further than The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall. It definitely will be a book I return to again and again, and I can’t wait to see what else Jessica Thorne has in store!
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
➜ Alternating timelines: 1939 and 2019
➜ Magic, witches, and ghosts
➜ Local legends and folklore
➜ A sapphic twist on Arthur and Guinevere
➜ Strong female friendships
➜ Letters from the past
➜ The potential to change the future
➜ Lots of foxes 🦊
I loved this book . I requested an ARC on a whim in an attempt to expand my reading list into other genres, and I found that the historical/fantasy combo was just what I needed. It included familiar fantastical elements I love, all with a historical twist.
The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall alternates between two POVs of women who reside there – Ellie in 1939, and Megan in 2019. Both have ties to war and loss and are struggling with recent changes in their lives. Shortly after starting her new job at the manor, Megan follows the mysterious green lights in the garden and finds herself transported back to 1939, where she becomes friends with Ellie. As the women get to know one another, they decide they must solve the mystery of Ellie’s disappearance before that fateful day comes to pass again. All of it seems tied to local legends surrounding the house’s connection to Arthurian legend and three witches of old.
Megan and Ellie both had distinct POVs with unique internal conflicts and lovable personalities. Their friendship and the subsequent effects they had on each other’s lives was heartwarming and at times more emotional than either of their romantic subplots. Their romances, however, were equally as easy to root for, from Ellie’s fighter pilot fiance David to Megan’s crush on Nora, one of the hall's trustees with family ties to the property.
I loved the magic and folklore surrounding Foxfield Hall and how it ultimately wove the characters and legend together. As you read, you unravel the secrets behind the magic alongside the characters that gave the story, on top of everything else it successfully delivers, a delightful mystery vibe. By the end I could not put the book down because I had to see how it ended and whether my predictions were correct!
If you’re looking for a unique story that successfully combines elements of other genres and will leave you with a happy heart and smiling face, look no further than The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall. It definitely will be a book I return to again and again, and I can’t wait to see what else Jessica Thorne has in store!
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 6, 2021
Now here's a book that seems to transcend multiple genres! Historical fiction, romance, LGBTQ, sci-fi, suspense, paranormal, fantasy... This can be both great and risky. Those looking for conventional SFF will find the historical goings slow while those who don't have any genre preferences will be happy to have found so many within a single book.
The story comes to us from two characters in two distinct timelines: Megan in 2019, and Ellie in 1939. Megan is a landscape gardener, newly appointed to take charge of the gardens of Foxfield Hall. An intriguing part of these grounds is the unicursal maze with a well at its centre. This well is the source of great mystique with the legend of a green ghost attached to it. Ellie is teased by her fiancé for believing in the legend and so she sets out to capture photographic proof of the ghost. What happens when these two girls aim to find out more?
The book is strongly female-intensive. Hardly any male character (with a minor exception of David, Ellie’s fiancé) is in the lead role or memorably portrayed. But the women make the story and take it to amazing heights. Other than Megan and Ellie, the characters of Nora, Ms. Seaborne, Hattie, and Gwenhwyfar are nicely etched, with so many layers underneath layers that you keep wondering what their true selves are.
The concept of the book is extraordinary. The story is intriguing, the writing is great, and the tempo is nicely maintained throughout. Some parts of the storyline are quite complicated and farfetched, but that doesn't take away much from the book. The way Jessica Thorne blends together the varied genres almost seamlessly is awesome.
In spite of all the interesting combinations, there was still something that kept me from rushing to complete the book. For some reason, my mind kept zoning out from the proceedings. I do feel that this is more of my problem that that of the book. Maybe I was just not in the frame of mind to read this because I can't find anything boring about the story, nor am I able to pinpoint any specific flaw in the writing. So I will recommend it heartily, because I honestly believe that I picked it up at the wrong time. And such an innovative storyline needs to be read.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
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The story comes to us from two characters in two distinct timelines: Megan in 2019, and Ellie in 1939. Megan is a landscape gardener, newly appointed to take charge of the gardens of Foxfield Hall. An intriguing part of these grounds is the unicursal maze with a well at its centre. This well is the source of great mystique with the legend of a green ghost attached to it. Ellie is teased by her fiancé for believing in the legend and so she sets out to capture photographic proof of the ghost. What happens when these two girls aim to find out more?
The book is strongly female-intensive. Hardly any male character (with a minor exception of David, Ellie’s fiancé) is in the lead role or memorably portrayed. But the women make the story and take it to amazing heights. Other than Megan and Ellie, the characters of Nora, Ms. Seaborne, Hattie, and Gwenhwyfar are nicely etched, with so many layers underneath layers that you keep wondering what their true selves are.
The concept of the book is extraordinary. The story is intriguing, the writing is great, and the tempo is nicely maintained throughout. Some parts of the storyline are quite complicated and farfetched, but that doesn't take away much from the book. The way Jessica Thorne blends together the varied genres almost seamlessly is awesome.
In spite of all the interesting combinations, there was still something that kept me from rushing to complete the book. For some reason, my mind kept zoning out from the proceedings. I do feel that this is more of my problem that that of the book. Maybe I was just not in the frame of mind to read this because I can't find anything boring about the story, nor am I able to pinpoint any specific flaw in the writing. So I will recommend it heartily, because I honestly believe that I picked it up at the wrong time. And such an innovative storyline needs to be read.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
February 25, 2021
Wow,
The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall was so much better than I thought it was going to be, and I had pretty high expectations in the first place.
With a narrative that switches between the beginning of WWII in 1939 and the present day, The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall tells a story of mystery, intrigue, and love. Megan Taylor, looking to get away from her family after her brother is declared MIA she takes a job restoring the gardens at Foxfield Hall. Ellie, the daughter of the lord of Foxfield, trying to get a photo of the ghost from the stories of her childhood. Brought together by mysterious supernatural forces, the two must work together to find out the truth about the strange things happening at Foxfield Hall.
This story literally has it all, ghosts, curses, an ancient family feud, and a sapphic love story. What more could you need in a book?
This story was so intense, It kept me on the edge of my seat through out the entire story, unable to put it down and stop reading. This tale was beautifully written, woven together with twists and turns.
The characters? Dynamic. The storytelling? Beautiful.
*This eARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall was so much better than I thought it was going to be, and I had pretty high expectations in the first place.
With a narrative that switches between the beginning of WWII in 1939 and the present day, The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall tells a story of mystery, intrigue, and love. Megan Taylor, looking to get away from her family after her brother is declared MIA she takes a job restoring the gardens at Foxfield Hall. Ellie, the daughter of the lord of Foxfield, trying to get a photo of the ghost from the stories of her childhood. Brought together by mysterious supernatural forces, the two must work together to find out the truth about the strange things happening at Foxfield Hall.
This story literally has it all, ghosts, curses, an ancient family feud, and a sapphic love story. What more could you need in a book?
This story was so intense, It kept me on the edge of my seat through out the entire story, unable to put it down and stop reading. This tale was beautifully written, woven together with twists and turns.
The characters? Dynamic. The storytelling? Beautiful.
*This eARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2021
I loved this book - it so reminded me of the tv programmes and books I read as a child - Tom’s Midnight Garden, Carrie’s War and The Amazing Mr Blunden - full of magic, mystery and time lines merging! I loved Megan and Ellie’s stories and was totally enthralled by the maze, the floating green lights and the well at the centre of the maze. The book is tense and thrilling and so absorbing - I read it in a day, Just wonderful and pure escapism. I would advise turning your phone off, grabbing a comfy chair and sitting back to be whisked far away to a land of magic and mystery........
March 20, 2021
Lady Eleanor struggles with the rigidity of her time - the late 1930's. As an Oxford mathematician graduate, Ellie wants to study, find the secrets science can share. As World War II begins, her fiancé, David, joins as a pilot. Her beloved father joins as an information officer, leaving his assistant to look over Ellie. Miss Seaborne places some serious restrictions.
Megan comes to Foxfield Hall to revive the gardens - and the sinister maze. She goes on a run in the maze, only to find green lights - and Ellie, in 1939.
Together Megan and Ellie try to figure how and why they've been brought together.
Ashleigh has a long history - Ellie's family going back hundreds of years, tied to the land. The first Lady of Foxfield, rumored to be the elusive Guinevere.
Legends. Folk tales. Vengeance. Family. Heritage.
Great story.
Megan comes to Foxfield Hall to revive the gardens - and the sinister maze. She goes on a run in the maze, only to find green lights - and Ellie, in 1939.
Together Megan and Ellie try to figure how and why they've been brought together.
Ashleigh has a long history - Ellie's family going back hundreds of years, tied to the land. The first Lady of Foxfield, rumored to be the elusive Guinevere.
Legends. Folk tales. Vengeance. Family. Heritage.
Great story.
February 28, 2021
This is a great book for fans of historical fiction, dual time lines, fantasy, legendary tales, it has it all.
Megan, a landscape gardener, arrives at Foxfield Hall, the ancestral home of Lady Eleanor Fairfield who disappeared in 1939. Strange things happen while Megan takes a look at the maze, green lights mysteriously appear.
A lovely book that had me enthralled
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Megan, a landscape gardener, arrives at Foxfield Hall, the ancestral home of Lady Eleanor Fairfield who disappeared in 1939. Strange things happen while Megan takes a look at the maze, green lights mysteriously appear.
A lovely book that had me enthralled
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
March 1, 2021
This was terrific! I couldn't put it down from the first to the last. I loved the dual timelines and the weaving of Arthurian legend into the modern take on Celtic lore. I loved the characters, and the action had me on the edge of my seat. Fantastic!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-ARC.
August 18, 2021
'The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall' is a spine chilling tale about a mysterious manor and its haunted grounds in the English countryside. The story follows Megan, a landscape architect who finds herself caught up in a beguiling mystery at Foxfield Hall while a young woman named Eleanor whose own implications in the mystery during pre-WWII crosses their timelines, provoking an interdimensional battle between the forces of good and evil.
This book was a great historical thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. It featured lost legends, pagan rites, Arthurian legends, witches, ghosts, time-travel, and ancient magic. The rustic fantasy elements complimented the historical storyline, producing an eerie tale about the temporal and metaphysical entanglements of time.
The haunting prose and raw emotions of the characters were a bit heavy at times, but absolutely necessary for a story about the archaic and supernatural. The story got more complex as it went on and the intricacy of the plot revealed little details that were scattered throughout the story, leading to plot twists and a surprise ending. My only critiques are that the romance between Megan and her love interest didn’t really contribute anything to the story and the book cover needs to have creepy imagery to better reflect its contents.
'The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall' is a spellbinding historical fiction book that you should definitely read if you are a fan of earthy supernatural tales.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a great historical thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. It featured lost legends, pagan rites, Arthurian legends, witches, ghosts, time-travel, and ancient magic. The rustic fantasy elements complimented the historical storyline, producing an eerie tale about the temporal and metaphysical entanglements of time.
The haunting prose and raw emotions of the characters were a bit heavy at times, but absolutely necessary for a story about the archaic and supernatural. The story got more complex as it went on and the intricacy of the plot revealed little details that were scattered throughout the story, leading to plot twists and a surprise ending. My only critiques are that the romance between Megan and her love interest didn’t really contribute anything to the story and the book cover needs to have creepy imagery to better reflect its contents.
'The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall' is a spellbinding historical fiction book that you should definitely read if you are a fan of earthy supernatural tales.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the chance to read a copy of The lost girls of Foxfield Hall by Jessica Thorne. The description and the cover was what got my attention but I was hooked almost right away to this dual timeline fantasy story that takes place both in 1939 and 2019 England. I had no idea that there would be hints of the Arthurian legends woven through this tale.
September 1939 - Eleanor learns her fiancé David is heading to fight for his country. He gives her a gift, a camera, and tells her to take a picture of the ghost that haunts the maze of Foxfield Hall, the green lady. Later Eleanor spots dancing lights and follows them into the maze.
September 2019 - Megan comes to Foxfield Hall to restore the overgrown maze and becomes intrigued by the mystery of Lady Eleanor Fairfax. The story is that she disappears and her body was never found. She also becomes intrigued by Nora Grainger whose the granddaughter of David. One evening, she is drawn to the maze and follows the dancing lights into the maze; can she solve the mystery surrounding Eleanor's disappearance or become the next victim of the maze?
This story had me hooked right from the beginnning. I had no idea where it was going, so I sat back and just let it take me for a ride! The lost girls has multiple genres: its historical fiction, romance, fantasy and LGBTQ. If you are looking for something a little different you will be quite happy. I know I was. Another author going on my TBR list. 5 STARS!!!!
September 1939 - Eleanor learns her fiancé David is heading to fight for his country. He gives her a gift, a camera, and tells her to take a picture of the ghost that haunts the maze of Foxfield Hall, the green lady. Later Eleanor spots dancing lights and follows them into the maze.
September 2019 - Megan comes to Foxfield Hall to restore the overgrown maze and becomes intrigued by the mystery of Lady Eleanor Fairfax. The story is that she disappears and her body was never found. She also becomes intrigued by Nora Grainger whose the granddaughter of David. One evening, she is drawn to the maze and follows the dancing lights into the maze; can she solve the mystery surrounding Eleanor's disappearance or become the next victim of the maze?
This story had me hooked right from the beginnning. I had no idea where it was going, so I sat back and just let it take me for a ride! The lost girls has multiple genres: its historical fiction, romance, fantasy and LGBTQ. If you are looking for something a little different you will be quite happy. I know I was. Another author going on my TBR list. 5 STARS!!!!
March 6, 2021
The synopsis promises a magical and additive tale that spans time and it certainly delivered. I loved reading the beginning chapters with Eleanor and the descriptions of Foxfield Hall and the maze were brilliantly done. The world really came to life. Megan, a landscape architect, is a strong character and I loved all the paranormal elements of this story. I did however find myself skimming whenever there were scenes with Megan and Nora as these felt forced and didn't add anything to the story for me. I also felt this romantic element was only included in the story to fit with the need to be diverse. It wasn't mentioned in the blurb either and had it been I wouldn't have requested the book. The fantasy elements were complimented perfectly with the historical setting and this was where the story shone for me. Filled with ghosts and curses, and family secrets, this really did make for an exceptional read and I loved how it all tied together.
March 28, 2021
Oooh, what an unusual book!
There are two timelines here - 1939 and 2019. Lady Eleanor Fairfax is the main character in 1939 and Megan Taylor the main character in 2019.
Lady Eleanor (or Ellie, as she is known mostly), is engaged to David, a pilot. As the stormclouds gather for WWII, Ellie becomes more and more concerned that she is going to lose David. Ellie lives in Foxfield Hall, a stately home with its own maze. Her father does something secret in government, something that she is told not to worry her pretty little head about, in effect. Ellie, however, has a mathematics degree and isn't the type of young woman who just sits at home and does needlework.
Megan is a gardener, who is contracted to tidy up the grounds of Foxfield Hall. In the intervening years since Ellie lived there as a young woman, the house has been turned into a hotel, which Megan's best friend runs.
I don't want to give away the plot, but Ellie and Megan's lives collide and there are myths and supernatural happenings for both of them, which take a sinister turn. Neither woman knows who to trust in their own time and things come to an explosive head.
You need to suspend belief, of course, because this is a magical book with strong supernatural themes. Quite dark at times but there is some romance as well.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
There are two timelines here - 1939 and 2019. Lady Eleanor Fairfax is the main character in 1939 and Megan Taylor the main character in 2019.
Lady Eleanor (or Ellie, as she is known mostly), is engaged to David, a pilot. As the stormclouds gather for WWII, Ellie becomes more and more concerned that she is going to lose David. Ellie lives in Foxfield Hall, a stately home with its own maze. Her father does something secret in government, something that she is told not to worry her pretty little head about, in effect. Ellie, however, has a mathematics degree and isn't the type of young woman who just sits at home and does needlework.
Megan is a gardener, who is contracted to tidy up the grounds of Foxfield Hall. In the intervening years since Ellie lived there as a young woman, the house has been turned into a hotel, which Megan's best friend runs.
I don't want to give away the plot, but Ellie and Megan's lives collide and there are myths and supernatural happenings for both of them, which take a sinister turn. Neither woman knows who to trust in their own time and things come to an explosive head.
You need to suspend belief, of course, because this is a magical book with strong supernatural themes. Quite dark at times but there is some romance as well.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
March 27, 2021
This book has everything you need to make a good story. Sapphic love, historical novel mixed with fantasy, magical elements and two timelines that cross. But unfortunately it did not hold my attention long enough for me to like it. This is more a case of it not being for me rather than it being bad. I highly recommend this, because it is interesting.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
April 2, 2021
This book was out of my comfort zone. It is part a historical story part mystical make believe. I did finish the book but skim read the last third as it really wasn't for me I'm afraid. I don't mind the odd ghost story and this included a version of the King Arthur legend which to be honest I don't know much about. Lovely cover though.
March 25, 2021
The first thing that caught my eye for this book was the wonderful cover. Then I read the premise and I was even more intrigued. I love mystery, time travel and history, this book promised all and more.
The book follows Megan Taylor, a garden restorer who is grieving her (MIA) brother. She impulsively takes a job restoring the gardens at Foxfield Hall, a manor house turned hotel that is run by her best friend. One night on a run she follows some green glowing lights into a maze on the grounds and all the way to 1939, where she encounters Eleanor Fairfax, the daughter of the owner of Foxfield Hall. Not only is time travel crazy enough, but Eleanor herself went missing in 1939 and was never seen again. Eleanor was trying to photograph the Green Lady, a famous local ghost in the maze when she disappeared. Who is the Green Lady and what connection does she have between Megan and Eleanor and their respective time periods? Can Megan assist Eleanor and prevent her disappearance, how will this affect the currect timeline?
What a great read this was. I really enjoyed the mystery and supernatural parts of the book. I was more partial to Eleanor and her storyline than Megan’s, but this was a fun read. I highly recommend this for someone who wants a great escape.
Thanks to Netgalley, Jessica Thorne and the publisher Bookoutoure for the chance to read and review this book
The book follows Megan Taylor, a garden restorer who is grieving her (MIA) brother. She impulsively takes a job restoring the gardens at Foxfield Hall, a manor house turned hotel that is run by her best friend. One night on a run she follows some green glowing lights into a maze on the grounds and all the way to 1939, where she encounters Eleanor Fairfax, the daughter of the owner of Foxfield Hall. Not only is time travel crazy enough, but Eleanor herself went missing in 1939 and was never seen again. Eleanor was trying to photograph the Green Lady, a famous local ghost in the maze when she disappeared. Who is the Green Lady and what connection does she have between Megan and Eleanor and their respective time periods? Can Megan assist Eleanor and prevent her disappearance, how will this affect the currect timeline?
What a great read this was. I really enjoyed the mystery and supernatural parts of the book. I was more partial to Eleanor and her storyline than Megan’s, but this was a fun read. I highly recommend this for someone who wants a great escape.
Thanks to Netgalley, Jessica Thorne and the publisher Bookoutoure for the chance to read and review this book
March 20, 2021
When Megan Taylor is called in to by her best friend to help restore a hedge maze at the historic Foxfield Hall, a new hotel in the English countryside, she jumps at the chance to get away from her life for while. While on a run one night she encounters glowing green lights which lead her to the center of the maze. Inside the maze she comes face to face with Lady Eleanore Fairfax who in 1939 has just said goodbye to her fiancé as she sends him off to fight in World War II. The two women quickly form a bond in the maze trying to figure out how they've come together 80 years apart. Only when she leaves the maze does Megan discover that Ellie will mysteriously vanish in a few days in 1939 and never be seen again. As Megan tries to uncover the secrets, ghosts, and legends of Foxfield she tries to undo Ellie's disappearance. But will trying to save a woman 80 years in the past cost Megan her future?
This book jumps between 2019 with Megan and 1939 with Ellie. It beautifully marries the legend of Arthur and Guinevere with witches, time travel, and mystery. A lot of reviews I read seemed to not like Megan's romance with Nora, but I didn't care that the blurb about the book didn't mention it. It's established within the first few pages that this romance is a possibility, plus their relationship is extremely important to the plot.
Overall, I think this book was engaging and the mystery really kept me turning the pages.
*I was provided an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher for my honest review.
This book jumps between 2019 with Megan and 1939 with Ellie. It beautifully marries the legend of Arthur and Guinevere with witches, time travel, and mystery. A lot of reviews I read seemed to not like Megan's romance with Nora, but I didn't care that the blurb about the book didn't mention it. It's established within the first few pages that this romance is a possibility, plus their relationship is extremely important to the plot.
Overall, I think this book was engaging and the mystery really kept me turning the pages.
*I was provided an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher for my honest review.
January 26, 2023
I loved this book! This was exactly the story I needed right now.
Very original take on some strong women in literature and legend (not calling them out as I don't want to spoil).
Perfect mix of romance, suspense, fantasy, ... It had it all.
One of Ms Thorne's best so far if you ask me
Very original take on some strong women in literature and legend (not calling them out as I don't want to spoil).
Perfect mix of romance, suspense, fantasy, ... It had it all.
One of Ms Thorne's best so far if you ask me
March 25, 2021
Landscape gardener Megan Taylor is commissioned to revamp the gardens of Foxfield Hall, now a hotel. In 1939, Eleanor, daughter of the owner went missing one September evening and was never seen again. Two stories set in two timelines destined to cross when Megan accidentally meets Eleanor (Ellie) in the centre of the garden's mysterious maze.
This story is so many things. It's a timeslip, it involves the supernatural and local folk law plus an unusual twist on the Arthurian legend. It's an intense read with twists you don't see coming. At times I found it a little scary but at the same time gripping. I could not put it down. Well written, it's a compulsive read and is worth every one of the five stars I have given it.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC of The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall in exchange for an honest review.
This story is so many things. It's a timeslip, it involves the supernatural and local folk law plus an unusual twist on the Arthurian legend. It's an intense read with twists you don't see coming. At times I found it a little scary but at the same time gripping. I could not put it down. Well written, it's a compulsive read and is worth every one of the five stars I have given it.
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC of The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2021
Excellent unusual book
Jessica Thorne has created a wonderful, unforgettable story which lingers in the mind and one that paints vivid pictures. A complete story, more please!
Jessica Thorne has created a wonderful, unforgettable story which lingers in the mind and one that paints vivid pictures. A complete story, more please!
March 28, 2021
This isn't the type of book I usually read but I couldn't put it down. The mix of myths, the past and present day makes it a heart stopping read. Without giving away too much, the merging of pre war time/characters and present day characters who work together to uncover the mystery of the green lady ghost was fascinating. The plot based in the maze really brought out the mysterious essence of the book and I loved how some characters entwined between the two time periods.
March 30, 2021
An excellent mix of paranormal, historical fiction with a dual timeline and two interesting MCs.
The plot is fast paced and well written, an entertaining and engrossing story that kept me hooked.
Good characters and plot development, a vivid historical background and interesting paranormal side.
It's recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
The plot is fast paced and well written, an entertaining and engrossing story that kept me hooked.
Good characters and plot development, a vivid historical background and interesting paranormal side.
It's recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 17, 2021
The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall is a dual timeline story with part of it set in the present day, where Megan is trying to restore the overgrown maze behind the hall, and the other part set in WW2 where Eleanor is trying to take picture of the Green Lady (the ghost at the heart of the maze). The maze is dark and magical and one day Megan and Eleanor meet. When Megan later discovers that Eleanor went missing, just days after the time when she'd seen her, Megan has to unravel the mystery of what happened so that she can have a hope of stopping it from harming Eleanor. But she's messing with forces that are far, far older and far, far more dangerous than she realises.
The mystery was gripping. Megan is a great character and her preoccupation with her own brothers disappearance (he's MIA from a more modern war) feed into her need to save Eleanor from disappearing. There is a gentle romance between Megan and Nora, but the main thrust of the book is about saving Eleanor.
I found the book tense and a little bit frightening in places (in a good fantasy scary kind of way). But then, I find corn dollies very creepy at the best of times. It reminded me a little of books like The Children of Green Knowe and The Dark is Rising, which I loved reading as a child. I'd almost forgotten how much I loved that kind of real world/ magic blend.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I'd love to read more of this sort of thing.
I got beta read an early version of this book and then re-read a review copy from Netgalley.
The mystery was gripping. Megan is a great character and her preoccupation with her own brothers disappearance (he's MIA from a more modern war) feed into her need to save Eleanor from disappearing. There is a gentle romance between Megan and Nora, but the main thrust of the book is about saving Eleanor.
I found the book tense and a little bit frightening in places (in a good fantasy scary kind of way). But then, I find corn dollies very creepy at the best of times. It reminded me a little of books like The Children of Green Knowe and The Dark is Rising, which I loved reading as a child. I'd almost forgotten how much I loved that kind of real world/ magic blend.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I'd love to read more of this sort of thing.
I got beta read an early version of this book and then re-read a review copy from Netgalley.
May 6, 2024
I enjoyed the book but wasn’t my favorite. Good story it was a lot different than I expected it would be.
March 27, 2021
Oh my goodness. I've never read a book containing the supernatural before and hadnt realized this was one. I found it fascinating, enthralling and kept me engaged to the very end. Lots of unexpected twists and turns. It was great.
May 4, 2021
What an excellent story. A book with many layers to it beyond the main mystery that are wonderfully written and never fail to impress. Full review and blog tour stop on the blog here:
https://hedwigsworldofbooks.home.blog...
https://hedwigsworldofbooks.home.blog...
August 20, 2021
I’m sorry to say that I didn’t finish this book, got up to the 40% mark but was struggling to get into the ghostly, Arthurian legends & fantasy aspect of the novel. I originally chose this book because I love Historical fiction and dual timeline storyline, and yes a part of this story was historical fiction but it wasn’t dual timeline like I’d originally assumed but was in fact a time-slip novel which are two very separate things.
I absolutely loved the book cover to this though.
I absolutely loved the book cover to this though.
August 19, 2021
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this book.
I really loved this! It was this perfect blend of historical fiction, fantasy and romance. I'm not always a fan of shifting between two main characters, but it just worked for this story. I would 100% recommend this to anyone!
I really loved this! It was this perfect blend of historical fiction, fantasy and romance. I'm not always a fan of shifting between two main characters, but it just worked for this story. I would 100% recommend this to anyone!
March 27, 2021
The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall by Jessica Thorne is a modern spin on the ghost story. Not the horror kind, more the fantasy, let’s try to figure out what the hell happened and free that poor soul type. I was intrigued by the blurb promising “A spellbinding, magical and addictive tale about the mysterious and ancient legends at the heart of the English countryside, and how to find those who are lost.”
The book starts pretty well, I liked that the main character is a landscaper specialising in restoring historical gardens. That’s sure an unusual and fascinating job! Megan has her family trouble and love at first sight moment with Nora. But apart from that she didn’t seem to have much of a personality. I didn’t associate any voice to her and can’t think of anything she would like or not. Megan seemed to be missing something and sadly I can’t say I cared much for her.
The plot was very well thought out, with twists and intrigues and everything was explained and justified. But everything was foreshadowed a bit too heavily, everything was over explained and nothing ever surprised me. And it’s a real shame because the ideas are good, and it could really have made for a fantastic story, truthfully I really wanted to like it, the premise was intriguing, everything fit well into place, Thorne really plotted her book fantastically, but her characters were disappointing. We have a good visual picture of them with physical trait description, but no internal turmoil really. We don’t feel for any of them and I was distant the whole time I was reading. It’s a real shame, the story could have been gripping and really pulled at the heartstrings but there was no real talk about the emotions of the characters, their inner dialogue and stuff just kept happening.
We all have different styles of writing that call to us, and this one was not quite for me. The writing is clear and easy, but I never could quite plunge into the book. I never forgot it was words on paper, I usually like more emotive language, it calls me in. In this case I would say it is a bit of a missed opportunity. The plot was all there, different enough with enough wonder and mystery to grab people, but I think more work on character depth would have made the book shine.
If you want to read more of my reviews check out my website.
https://opaledgar.wordpress.com/blog-2/
The book starts pretty well, I liked that the main character is a landscaper specialising in restoring historical gardens. That’s sure an unusual and fascinating job! Megan has her family trouble and love at first sight moment with Nora. But apart from that she didn’t seem to have much of a personality. I didn’t associate any voice to her and can’t think of anything she would like or not. Megan seemed to be missing something and sadly I can’t say I cared much for her.
The plot was very well thought out, with twists and intrigues and everything was explained and justified. But everything was foreshadowed a bit too heavily, everything was over explained and nothing ever surprised me. And it’s a real shame because the ideas are good, and it could really have made for a fantastic story, truthfully I really wanted to like it, the premise was intriguing, everything fit well into place, Thorne really plotted her book fantastically, but her characters were disappointing. We have a good visual picture of them with physical trait description, but no internal turmoil really. We don’t feel for any of them and I was distant the whole time I was reading. It’s a real shame, the story could have been gripping and really pulled at the heartstrings but there was no real talk about the emotions of the characters, their inner dialogue and stuff just kept happening.
We all have different styles of writing that call to us, and this one was not quite for me. The writing is clear and easy, but I never could quite plunge into the book. I never forgot it was words on paper, I usually like more emotive language, it calls me in. In this case I would say it is a bit of a missed opportunity. The plot was all there, different enough with enough wonder and mystery to grab people, but I think more work on character depth would have made the book shine.
If you want to read more of my reviews check out my website.
https://opaledgar.wordpress.com/blog-2/
March 8, 2021
Wanted to read this book just for the gorgeous cover and English countryside setting.
Megan has been commissioned to renovate the gardens and maze of manor house Foxfield Hall.
This history of this house goes back to pre-Norman times. This story is told in two-time lines, one present in Megan’s POV and the second one goes back to the timeline where the second world war is about to start and Ellie’s POV, who is the Lady of Manor.
I felt that this book has too much crammed into it. You name it, it has that such as time travel to past and future, witches, countless legends, mystery started in Arthurian times, local lore, magic, alternate future, alternate history, harvest festivals, steeped in history, fantasy, curses, phantoms, and finally sapphic romance I guess just to be modern. I wish this diversity was mentioned in the blurb, I wouldn’t have requested it since I just finished another book involving MM romance where
I was blindsided by it, though the thrilling aspects mesmerized me.
Fascinated by few aspects mentioned in this book but as lost interest as this went all over the place. On top of it, it was my first book involving time travel. Took me a little time to get a grip on what’s happening. Perplexed when Megan thinks that she had to warn Ellie about impending danger awaiting her. I was like it already happened; how could it be changed.
Admired Ellie as she is a strong, independent woman. It was fun reading about her astonishment when she meets Megan in the maze and subsequently finds how the world has been in the present day and how it was different from her day. On the other hand, the romance between Megan and Nora felt forced.
Overall, mesmerized by some aspects of it but I am the wrong audience for this book as sci/fi and fantasy isn’t my go-to genre. If you are a fan of historical fiction with time travel then I highly recommend it.
Special thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Megan has been commissioned to renovate the gardens and maze of manor house Foxfield Hall.
This history of this house goes back to pre-Norman times. This story is told in two-time lines, one present in Megan’s POV and the second one goes back to the timeline where the second world war is about to start and Ellie’s POV, who is the Lady of Manor.
I felt that this book has too much crammed into it. You name it, it has that such as time travel to past and future, witches, countless legends, mystery started in Arthurian times, local lore, magic, alternate future, alternate history, harvest festivals, steeped in history, fantasy, curses, phantoms, and finally sapphic romance I guess just to be modern. I wish this diversity was mentioned in the blurb, I wouldn’t have requested it since I just finished another book involving MM romance where
I was blindsided by it, though the thrilling aspects mesmerized me.
Fascinated by few aspects mentioned in this book but as lost interest as this went all over the place. On top of it, it was my first book involving time travel. Took me a little time to get a grip on what’s happening. Perplexed when Megan thinks that she had to warn Ellie about impending danger awaiting her. I was like it already happened; how could it be changed.
Admired Ellie as she is a strong, independent woman. It was fun reading about her astonishment when she meets Megan in the maze and subsequently finds how the world has been in the present day and how it was different from her day. On the other hand, the romance between Megan and Nora felt forced.
Overall, mesmerized by some aspects of it but I am the wrong audience for this book as sci/fi and fantasy isn’t my go-to genre. If you are a fan of historical fiction with time travel then I highly recommend it.
Special thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2021
1939. Lady Eleanor Fairfax faces the outbreak of war and her fiance's departure to join the RAF. 2019. Megan Taylor is hired by Foxfield Hall to restore the grounds. She is anxiously awaiting news of her brother who is a soldier missing in action. Both women are fascinated by the mysteries of the local area and the well on the estate. And one night they meet in the maze...
The Lost Girls Of Foxfield Hall is an intriguing tale of love, loss and magic. I'll be honest and say that I hadn't read the blurb so was not expecting the magical element to the plot. I enjoyed the way that author Jessica Thorne blends different genres together to make an enjoyable novel.
The strength of women is a recurring theme throughout the book. There are witches, sisterhood and also the power of female friendship. There is also a lesbian romantic element that forms part of the plot and breaks down stereotypes.
Both timelines are equally well imagined. I had no idea that Ellie and Megan's lives would collide so enjoyed their discoveries of each other. The paradox of time and changing the past with the ensuing effect on the present/future is explored and resolved for these characters at the end of the book.
My favourite part of the book was the history and legend focus within the plot. The story of King Arthur combined with witchcraft and pagan rituals. I liked how the tale of the three sisters had been passed down through the generations and across the planes of time.
The Lost Girls Of Foxfield Hall is an intriguing book combining historical fiction with legends as well as the present day.
The Lost Girls Of Foxfield Hall is an intriguing tale of love, loss and magic. I'll be honest and say that I hadn't read the blurb so was not expecting the magical element to the plot. I enjoyed the way that author Jessica Thorne blends different genres together to make an enjoyable novel.
The strength of women is a recurring theme throughout the book. There are witches, sisterhood and also the power of female friendship. There is also a lesbian romantic element that forms part of the plot and breaks down stereotypes.
Both timelines are equally well imagined. I had no idea that Ellie and Megan's lives would collide so enjoyed their discoveries of each other. The paradox of time and changing the past with the ensuing effect on the present/future is explored and resolved for these characters at the end of the book.
My favourite part of the book was the history and legend focus within the plot. The story of King Arthur combined with witchcraft and pagan rituals. I liked how the tale of the three sisters had been passed down through the generations and across the planes of time.
The Lost Girls Of Foxfield Hall is an intriguing book combining historical fiction with legends as well as the present day.
March 6, 2021
In "The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall," Jessica Thorne has created a time-travel, alternate history/alternate future, Arthurian-inspired mystery and LGBTQTIA+ romance. What might have been, and what is, are unsettled, and garden restoration expert Megan Taylor must work her way through a literal maze to find the truth about the past.
Megan takes a job restoring the gardens at a luxury hotel and spa run by her friend from university. Her soldier brother has been declared MIA, and she wants a place to get away from her present. She literally finds that as she wanders through a garden maze and ends up in 1939, meeting Ellie Fairfax, the daughter of Foxfield Hall, which is the site of the present-day hotel. Megan makes it back to the present, and begins to research the estate. Ellie disappeared not long after their meeting, and Megan is determined to discover why. She discovers a curse, a witch, and how the past is not always immutable.
Megan and Ellie are strong and compelling characters, and readers will be heavily invested in their stories.
Recommended.
I received an advance copy from Bookouture and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Megan takes a job restoring the gardens at a luxury hotel and spa run by her friend from university. Her soldier brother has been declared MIA, and she wants a place to get away from her present. She literally finds that as she wanders through a garden maze and ends up in 1939, meeting Ellie Fairfax, the daughter of Foxfield Hall, which is the site of the present-day hotel. Megan makes it back to the present, and begins to research the estate. Ellie disappeared not long after their meeting, and Megan is determined to discover why. She discovers a curse, a witch, and how the past is not always immutable.
Megan and Ellie are strong and compelling characters, and readers will be heavily invested in their stories.
Recommended.
I received an advance copy from Bookouture and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
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