A Winter by the Sea by Julie Klassen

*** Review ***

A Winter by the Sea, the latest addition to the On Devonshire Shores series, invites readers to return to the enchanting world of the Summers family. With Woolbrook Cottage by the seaside as its backdrop, this novel weaves a tale of love, secrets, and dreams in the mid-19th century Devonshire. As a devoted fan of historical romance, I was eager to delve into this book, and it did not disappoint.

The story unfolds with the arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Kent, who decide to spend the winter near the Summers sisters’ boarding house. This sets the stage for a captivating narrative that explores the dynamics between the sisters and the royal couple’s entourage, offering a delightful glimpse into the lives of those who served the monarchy during Queen Victoria’s infancy.

The central focus of A Winter by the Sea revolves around Emily and Sarah Summers, and their journeys of self-discovery, love, and resilience. Emily, a budding writer, approaches a local publisher with her aspirations, only to face rejection. However, her determination to fulfill her dream leads her on an unexpected path when she agrees to write a new guidebook of Sidmouth. The novel beautifully captures her growth as a writer and her evolving relationship with the Duke’s charming private secretary.

What makes this book particularly endearing is the attention to historical detail. Julie Klassen’s research is evident in the vivid descriptions of the period, and the author’s note at the end of the book adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. The story cleverly intertwines real historical figures, such as Prince Edward, the father of Queen Victoria, into the fictional tale, grounding the narrative in the rich history of the era.

The characters in A Winter by the Sea are beautifully written and well-rounded. Each character feels like a friend, and I appreciated the continuity of personalities from the previous book in the series. The charming sisters, along with their distinctive qualities, create a sense of camaraderie that is both heartwarming and genuine. Emily’s passion for writing and her determination to overcome obstacles make her a relatable and inspiring protagonist.

The blossoming romance between Emily and the Duke’s private secretary adds depth to the story, as the reader becomes emotionally invested in their journey. Their relationship is developed with care and nuance, and the author masterfully builds tension and excitement throughout the plot. The moments of intimacy are tastefully written, providing just the right amount of emotional connection.

Sarah, Emily’s sister, also has her own romantic subplot with the pastry chef, adding a delightful layer of sweetness and humor to the narrative. It’s evident that Klassen excels in creating multi-dimensional characters with authentic emotions and believable conflicts.

As a reader who hadn’t experienced the first book in the series, I initially had some concerns about jumping into the story midway. However, the author’s skillful storytelling made the transition smooth, and I soon found myself immersed in the world of Sea View, Sidmouth. That being said, I now eagerly anticipate going back and reading the first book to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their histories.

A Winter by the Sea is a story of clean romance, filled with touching moments, passionate kisses, and occasional drama and suspense that keep the pages turning. The book reaches a superb and satisfying ending, leaving readers with a sense of fulfillment and contentment.

In conclusion, A Winter by the Sea is a historical romance that offers readers a beautifully crafted world filled with endearing characters and engaging stories. Julie Klassen’s meticulous research and attention to historical accuracy elevate the narrative, making it a rich and immersive experience. For fans of historical romance, this book is an absolute delight. It’s the perfect read to snuggle up with during the winter months, making it an ideal addition to your holiday reading list. I found myself falling in love with the setting, the characters, and the entire world Klassen has created, and I cannot wait to continue this delightful journey with the next installment in the series. A Winter by the Sea is, without a doubt, a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartwarming historical romance.