This story begins in July 1916 in France during WWI, as Jem Arden is yearning for his lost love Kate. Unbeknownst to Jem, Kate is working in Brighton and volunteering at a nearby hospital for soldiers. The story shifts to the meeting of Jem and Kate which takes place in Derbyshire, England, in April 1911. Kate Furniss is the proper, unemotional housekeeper of Coldwell Hall, the once-grand grand estate of Sir Henry Hyde. Kate, not her real name, is hiding a deep secret. Jem Arden arrives under false pretenses to fill the vacant position of footman at Coldwell Hall, in pursuit of information. Despite relationships between staff members being forbidden, Kate and Jem are drawn to each other. As various people in the household threaten Kate's safety and Jem's mission, the two try to find a way to be together.
On the cover of The Housekeeper's Secret, it reads "Duty, desire, and deception reside under one roof," which is a perfect summary of Iona Grey's book, a blend of historical fiction, mystery, and romance. While the pace was slow at times and the plot a bit predictable, this was an engaging story. Fans of Downton Abbey, Gosford Park, Upstairs/Downstairs should check it out.
Rated 3.75 out of 5 stars.
Historical Fiction | Mystery | Romance.
Publication Date: August 13, 2024.
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