Mrs England

Stacey Halls is now firmly an auto buy author for me. Mrs. England is a slow burning, beguiling tale of family secrets and the extents we will go to to protect the ones we love.

Liked it! Interesting plot and setting. Slow start, but unsettling dynamics in the house and tension building slowly throughout the story. I had my guesses but couldn't say for sure until the very end. Well done.

I loved that the focus was kept on Ruby and her work and story, rather than turning into a love story just because she is a woman of a certain age. No cheese. Just great story, well written characters and story.

This was such an enchanting story which got me immersed from start to finish! The stunning and almost cinematic writing created the perfect dark and enigmatic atmosphere of a fine gothic novel. I ADORE Downton Abbey and this novel somehow gave me similar vibes in terms of the setting and the relationship between servants and masters. I love anything centred around Edwardian England or Yorkshire <3

I really admire Ruby's character, her care and devotion to the children she takes care of. She's strong willed and courageous despite her position as a nanny in an eminent household, and will always choose to do what's best for the little ones even at the risk of backlash. I also really liked Mrs. England and her character development across the novel, but sadly I can't really go into much detail without spoiling the plot. However, I can mention the fact that her camaraderie with nanny Ruby was pleasant and interesting to follow.

In terms of mystery, even though the ending wasn't as shocking, it was very satisfying and the process leading up to the climax was compelling. The actual surprise factor for me was the fact that Ruby's character was inspired by a real life person who suffered a traumatic incident during the Edwardian era. I really enjoyed doing some research related to that story after finishing the book hehe!

A satisfactory novel (in the positive sense) that was easy to read but also fairly easy to forget. There were distant echoes of Jane Eyre and twisting tendrils of suspense which, all too often, withered without gratification. While it pulled on my gothic heartstrings at times, it was not dark enough for me. Won't be a re-read but I'll probably read more of Halls' work.

Okay book, especially if you consider the depth of the narrative. But that's all.