The Tutor's Daughter

Over the last two years, Emma Smallwood's mother has left this earth and her father has ceased caring much about life himself, even when doing what he loves as a tutor.  When the last of his students departs Smallwood Academy, Emma is determined to find young men to replace them or the bills won't be paid and her father may just give up on life.

Several years back, Mr. Smallwood had two students, Phillip and Henry Weston.  No two brothers could have been more different.  Henry always teased and was unkind, promising Emma she would be a spinster.  Phillip was just the opposite in befriending Emma.  If memory serves her correctly, Phillip Weston has two half brothers who are of age and in need of an education so she writes a letter to his father hoping they will be her father's new students. 

When the return letter arrives, a door is opened when Mr. Smallwood is asked to travel to Cornwall to tutor the two boys rather than them being sent to him. Mr. Smallwood has a glint in his eye that Emma hasn't seen in too long as she agrees to accompany him. After all, a change of scenery will be good for both of them, won't it?  Needless to say, Henry's previous treatment of Emma doesn't leave her eager to see him again.

When they arrive, they find that their arrival wasn't expected.  Strange things begin to happen around the house, especially to Emma, and secrets seem to abound.  What are the Westons hiding and who is behind the strange noises and odd happenings (appearances and disappearances)?

I loved the beautiful English country/seaside setting.  The characters were well developed and the mystery with its twists and turns that usually isn't present in historical romance added to my interest.  Not quite as predictable as some either.  I haven't read any other of Julie Klassen's books the  The Tutor's Daughter leaves me wanting to do so.  Others have compared her to Jane Austin and, while I can see some similarities and Ms. Klassen does love Jane Austin's work, let me assure you that The Tutor's Daughter is much easier to read than anything Jane Austin.  Pick up a copy today.  I don't think you will be disappointed if you are a historical fiction reader.  Check out the book trailer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZi5NQbkb0A&list=UUOTCh77FT1ZAyg-Mrj97HWw&index=4.

I did receive this book free from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.  I was in no way obligated to leave a positive review.