I wanted to like this, but the attempt at a Gothic atmosphere and a mysterious hero fell flat for me, and near the end I just started skimming. ( )

I got three and a half hours of sleep last night. All because I was so engrossed in this novel. I just couldn’t stop reading it. I even ordered the next two books in the series this morning. Can’t wait.
It was an excellent story, full of mystery and romance. So well written. I loved that it was in first person. Sandra Byrd has a gift. ( )

Reminds me of Jane Eyre and Victoria Holt. It was a splendid story ! ( )

It would be horrible to have lost your whole family and then for everyone to think you weren't who you said you were. Rebecca has this happen. It would be awful. This book has great romance and intrigue. Is anyone who they say they are. Is anyone telling the truth? I did not want to put this book down. So kept my interest. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

I knew from the description going in that this novel had some Gothic elements, but unfortunately, its presence is a lot heavier than originally anticipated. I was again reminded why I’m not a big fan of the Gothic genre. The fumbling sleuthing of our heroine and the overly gloomy atmosphere all show their ugly heads. If the setting had been moved to the Moors of northern Yorkshire, I wouldn't be that surprised. But that being said, there are elements to the novel that save it from the scrapheap for me.

I have to give the author kudos for her research, historical details, and the balance she achieves between them and actual storytelling. The India parts were the most enjoyable for me. Seeing how the events of the Mutiny influenced Rebecca’s outlook on life and her faith made the story richer for me. I also liked how she held onto parts of her Indian background, incorporating aspects of that culture she grew up with into her own personality and still enjoying a love for the culture despite the hurt that country did her.

The relationship between Rebecca and Luke made the novel for me. It’s alternately sweet and mysterious, though the mystery part sometimes took too heavy a part in the storytelling for this non-Gothic liking reader. Yet, these two individuals seem made for each other. Their interactions strolling through gardens and picnicking under moonlight made for a very romantic atmosphere that helped to balance out the overwhelming gloomy parts a bit. The relationship starts out slow and builds over time, which I liked. It becomes based on mutual respect, despite the cloud of suspicion over Rebecca in the circumstances in which she emerges in England again. I liked that.

Once you get past the Gothic stuff, this novel is very enjoyable. The central relationship makes the novel, bringing the reader to a very satisfying level, romance-wise. The author’s attention to detail and research shows through, evenly balanced and interwoven with the overarching story. I could overlook the blundering sleuthing and eye-rolling melodrama in this one. It’s still an enjoyable read I think others will like as well.

Note: Book received for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review via NetGalley. ( )