"Dawn at Emberwilde" by Sarah E. Ladd

In another delightful Regency story by Sarah E. Ladd, we meet Isabel Creston on the day she receives extraordinary news. While she has grown up at Fellsworth School and expects to land a governess position in order to provide for herself and her young half-sister, she now learns that her mother's long-estranged family is seeking her out and inviting her to join the family at Emberwilde Hall. Isabel and Lizzie leave Fellsworth the same day and are ushered into a life of luxury and privilege.

But very soon Isabel can see that life at Emberwilde is not all that it appears. There are concerns about the estate's financial future, and Aunt Margaret is insisting that Isabel find a suitable marriage partner in as short a time as possible. Aunt Margaret believes the best match would be Mr. Bradford, who runs the local foundling home, but Isabel has barely even made his acquaintance.

Local magistrate Colin Galloway is captivated by the fair-headed newcomer with her winsome, innocent ways. He doesn't have time to think about getting to know her, having recently discovered Emberwilde forest is being used by smugglers, yet he keeps crossing paths with Miss Creston anyway. Meanwhile his cousin's widow, the woman he used to love, is making it no secret that she would welcome his renewed attention, should he care to extend it her direction.

As the secrets and mysteries surrounding Emberwilde begin to bring Isabel and Lizzie into threatening circumstances, Isabel must decide where she will take her stand. Her aunt's demands grow heavy, and refusing to comply may come with a heavy price tag. Should she submit or listen to what her own heart says is true?

I was captivated by this novel! There is just enough mystery, and plenty of delightful character-driven scenes. If you enjoy the Regency era, Sarah E. Ladd is an author you need to be following. I have loved all of her releases and am eagerly looking forward to more in the future!



I received my copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.