The Light at Wyndcliff by Sarah E. Ladd is the third book in The Cornwall Novels.
This is the first book that I have had the privilege to read from this author, and I was thoroughly impressed. I have to admit that I did not read the previous two books in this series before reading this one, however this was, to me, a stand alone novel. I loved this book so much that I purchased the first two as ebooks yesterday. ( Book One: The Governess of Penwythe Hall and Book Two: The Thief of Lanwyn Manor) I hope that there are possible connections to the characters in this current book as it can only add to the richness of this novel itself.
It is during the 1820s, Cornwall that we get to meet Evelyn Bray the steward’s granddaughter and the newly arrived Liam Twethewey as the new owner of Wyndcliff Estates. We then get to see their backstories, their fears, insecurities, strengths, and passions. Both characters are realistic, imperfect, and like able, yet have strong moral compasses, grow, evolve, and find their own way over the course of the book. I loved the complexity of the characters, their thought processes, and their interactions. There was definite chemistry between Liam and Evelyn and I am glad they were able to find one another.
The other part of the book that I loved, in addition to the sweet and subtle romance, was the mystery plot. There was suspense, intrigue, double-handing, and mystery involved with finding and flushing out the dark undercurrent on the shore and estate. It was creative, interesting, and kept me guessing and engaged until the end.
I also enjoyed the full cast of characters that were part of the village, estate, and the extended family members. All added warmth (well not all of course), depth, and emotion to the novel. There are plenty of characters that I feel could even be used for further books.
This is an excellent historical fiction romance that also has a fabulous mystery plot intertwined within. Easily one of my favorite books of this year!
5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you EW and Thomas Nelson for this amazing ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.