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Gresham Chronicles #1
The Widow of Larkspur Inn
When Life Seemed Its Worst, Gresham Awaited
Julia Hollis' opulent life in Victorian London crashes to pieces when her husband passes away. Worse, she is told by his bankers that he gambled away their fortune. Now, the family's hope rests on The Larkspur, an old abandoned coaching inn in the quaint village of Gresham.
Driven by dread and her desire to provide for her children, Julia decides to turn the dilapidated inn into a lodging house. But can she--who was accustomed to servants attending to every need--do what needs to be done and cope when boarders begin arriving? And then an eligible new vicar moves into town...
Julia Hollis' opulent life in Victorian London crashes to pieces when her husband passes away. Worse, she is told by his bankers that he gambled away their fortune. Now, the family's hope rests on The Larkspur, an old abandoned coaching inn in the quaint village of Gresham.
Driven by dread and her desire to provide for her children, Julia decides to turn the dilapidated inn into a lodging house. But can she--who was accustomed to servants attending to every need--do what needs to be done and cope when boarders begin arriving? And then an eligible new vicar moves into town...
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 1998
About the author
Lawana Blackwell
22 books374 followersLawana Blackwell is a full-time writer with 10 published novels, including the bestselling Gresham Chronicles series. She and her husband have three grown sons and live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 824 reviews
February 10, 2017
Kindle freebie 1/31/2017.
This is a fairly leisurely, reasonably well-written Victorian-era tale of a young British widow, Julia Hollis, and her two children, who are left destitute by her husband's unexpected death. Luckily part of her inheritance (the only thing that his creditors weren't interested in) is an old, run-down country inn. Julia and her kids pull up their roots and move out to the country, where she fixes up the inn and starts taking in lodgers.
This novel is basically a pleasant and reasonably interesting tale about life in a small town in Victorian days, and the various personalities who live in and around the inn. There's also a romance, but it plays a fairly minor role in the story and it's so clean it squeaks (there probably was a chaste kiss, but it certainly wasn't memorable).
This is inspirational fiction, so there's a fair amount of talk about God and faith, but I didn't consider it overly preachy. I liked this book well enough that I bought the three sequels. The first two were good (at least as good as this first book); the last one lost my interest.
Periodically available for free in the Kindle version, and it's definitely worth picking up as a freebie if you enjoy inspirational historical fiction with a dash of romance.
This is a fairly leisurely, reasonably well-written Victorian-era tale of a young British widow, Julia Hollis, and her two children, who are left destitute by her husband's unexpected death. Luckily part of her inheritance (the only thing that his creditors weren't interested in) is an old, run-down country inn. Julia and her kids pull up their roots and move out to the country, where she fixes up the inn and starts taking in lodgers.
This novel is basically a pleasant and reasonably interesting tale about life in a small town in Victorian days, and the various personalities who live in and around the inn. There's also a romance, but it plays a fairly minor role in the story and it's so clean it squeaks (there probably was a chaste kiss, but it certainly wasn't memorable).
This is inspirational fiction, so there's a fair amount of talk about God and faith, but I didn't consider it overly preachy. I liked this book well enough that I bought the three sequels. The first two were good (at least as good as this first book); the last one lost my interest.
Periodically available for free in the Kindle version, and it's definitely worth picking up as a freebie if you enjoy inspirational historical fiction with a dash of romance.
October 29, 2017
I initially had a really hard time getting into this, but once I got past the first 6 or 8 chapters, I really enjoyed the story! It reminded me in *some* ways of my favorite series, At Home in Mitford, because of the small town feel and the fact that it was written in numerous people's POV, which I liked.
The characters were all great; although I feel like Julia's children, particularly Aleda and Grace were underdeveloped. Phillip got so much more air time, and we were pretty frequently in his POV, yet there was almost nothing about Aleda and Grace. I loved all of the boardinghouse inmates, and their diverse personalities. My favorite was definitely the actor (I'm blanking on his name right now).
One thing I particularly loved about this book was how mild and in the background the romance was. It was almost nonexistent through much of the story.
That twist at the end was SO GOOD! I DID NOT see it coming, and that's saying a lot, as I usually do. ;) I was quite literally writhing around in agonies after I found out. XD
All in all, a good read! I docked a start because there were some hard parts to get through, especially in the beginning. Recommend for ages 14+ mostly because anyone younger wouldn't be interested in it. It is quite clean, with just a few thing, such as Other than that, there was just a bit of mild romance, totally appropriate for all ages.
The characters were all great; although I feel like Julia's children, particularly Aleda and Grace were underdeveloped. Phillip got so much more air time, and we were pretty frequently in his POV, yet there was almost nothing about Aleda and Grace. I loved all of the boardinghouse inmates, and their diverse personalities. My favorite was definitely the actor (I'm blanking on his name right now).
One thing I particularly loved about this book was how mild and in the background the romance was. It was almost nonexistent through much of the story.
That twist at the end was SO GOOD! I DID NOT see it coming, and that's saying a lot, as I usually do. ;) I was quite literally writhing around in agonies after I found out. XD
All in all, a good read! I docked a start because there were some hard parts to get through, especially in the beginning. Recommend for ages 14+ mostly because anyone younger wouldn't be interested in it. It is quite clean, with just a few thing, such as Other than that, there was just a bit of mild romance, totally appropriate for all ages.
February 19, 2017
{4.5 stars}
A delightful read! There are loads of characters in this story, but somehow the author weaves them together beauitfully and somehow I managed to keep them all straight. I think my favorites were Mr. Clay, the Vicar, and Mrs. Howitt.
The British aspect was well done, which is usually not normal for books set in England by American authors. The only term that I remember not being correct was "candy" instead of "sweets.
There was so many Spiritual lessons throughout this that I was amazed. The author did not shy away from the truth and I highly applaud her for weaving true, Christian faith into her story. The only thing that I didn't agree with were the couple kisses before marriage, but even those were non-detailed and sweet.
This is a longer book and not fast-paced, but I definitely recommend it!
A delightful read! There are loads of characters in this story, but somehow the author weaves them together beauitfully and somehow I managed to keep them all straight. I think my favorites were Mr. Clay, the Vicar, and Mrs. Howitt.
The British aspect was well done, which is usually not normal for books set in England by American authors. The only term that I remember not being correct was "candy" instead of "sweets.
There was so many Spiritual lessons throughout this that I was amazed. The author did not shy away from the truth and I highly applaud her for weaving true, Christian faith into her story. The only thing that I didn't agree with were the couple kisses before marriage, but even those were non-detailed and sweet.
This is a longer book and not fast-paced, but I definitely recommend it!
August 24, 2017
Overall Impression
If you are looking for a sweet and wholesome Historical Romance, The Widow of Larkspur Inn is for you. I had seen this quite awhile ago and was instantly attracted to the cover. As I skimming through my Kindle library, searching desperately for a new book to read and this one popped up. I started in with high expectations that were not disappointed.
The overall feeling to this book was warm and homey. Gresham was delightfully portrayed, I could see the very streets with a wonderful clarity as I read the book. I love it when books have strong settings, ones where you can see the story playing out in your mind. So was The Widow of Larkspur Lane.
The Widow of Larkspur Lane is a great novel for single readers and families alike. I would recommend it strongly to reader who are looking for, or fine with a somewhat slower story.
Characters
I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Julia, in particular, was refreshing. In lots of books the heroines bounce from one end of the spectrum to the other. Either they are perfect or they can’t boil water without messing it up. Julia was a breath of fresh air! She was totally out of her element in Gresham but that didn’t stop her. She worked hard, and learned a lot. She had children to provide for and nothing was getting in her way. Julia had an air of elegance and graciousness to her that was lovely. She was very kind, very tactful, and properly discreet. I loved this character!
Julia’s children, Philip, Aleda, and Grace were well done.Philip tried hard to be the man about the house and was very sweet. Aleda, to be honest, wasn’t really my favorite. She was rather sharp and annoying. Grace was a dear! She was so sweet definitely my favorite of the two girls.
Fiona O’Shea, Julia’s maid/housekeeper/best friend. Fiona was so sweet. Her Irish brogue, not to mention her pluck, spiced the book up nicely. She was so dutiful and God-honoring without being annoyingly perfect. I loved her character and I was so glad she got a happy ending!
There were a lot of lodgers, all of whom were unique personalities. But as there are so many I will only touch on my favorite, Mr. Clay. Ambrose Clay was such a dear man. He was always kind and considerate even through his depression. He was one of my very favorite characters.
The other supporting main and side characters were good. They added to the story beautifully. My hat’s off to Mrs. Blackwell! Her characters were superb.
Plot
The plot of The Widow of Larkspur Inn was very enjoyable. The story was definitely a slower pace than most books I read, this wasn’t bad however.
One thing that was and is really annoying to me was all the desecration bordering deception Julia had about her husband's secret life. She didn't need to announce it to the world but the whole idea of 'preserving her husbands image for her kids' was stupid. Truth is best.
Some of my only critiques on the story line and pace was the end. This, I felt, was not wholly satisfying. Julia’s romance literally took place in like the last 3% of the book. Now to be honest, Fiona’s romance was more important to me than Julia’s, but I would have preferred more time with Julia’s romance. I don’t even think the way that her romance was laid out was bad, just too short. The ending was abbreviated in my opinion, I would have been happy for another chapter or two.
Other than the above mentioned I felt that the plot and story were organized well. It flowed well and had good passage of time. The characters had time to progress in their character arcs. This book was relaxing and fun to read!
Warnings:
Language/Profanity: None
Violence/Gore/Frightening Scenes: None
Sex/Nudity: There is one comment that is suggestive of immoral behavior. Not a big deal for older readers, and families could easily skip.
If you are looking for a sweet and wholesome Historical Romance, The Widow of Larkspur Inn is for you. I had seen this quite awhile ago and was instantly attracted to the cover. As I skimming through my Kindle library, searching desperately for a new book to read and this one popped up. I started in with high expectations that were not disappointed.
The overall feeling to this book was warm and homey. Gresham was delightfully portrayed, I could see the very streets with a wonderful clarity as I read the book. I love it when books have strong settings, ones where you can see the story playing out in your mind. So was The Widow of Larkspur Lane.
The Widow of Larkspur Lane is a great novel for single readers and families alike. I would recommend it strongly to reader who are looking for, or fine with a somewhat slower story.
Characters
I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Julia, in particular, was refreshing. In lots of books the heroines bounce from one end of the spectrum to the other. Either they are perfect or they can’t boil water without messing it up. Julia was a breath of fresh air! She was totally out of her element in Gresham but that didn’t stop her. She worked hard, and learned a lot. She had children to provide for and nothing was getting in her way. Julia had an air of elegance and graciousness to her that was lovely. She was very kind, very tactful, and properly discreet. I loved this character!
Julia’s children, Philip, Aleda, and Grace were well done.Philip tried hard to be the man about the house and was very sweet. Aleda, to be honest, wasn’t really my favorite. She was rather sharp and annoying. Grace was a dear! She was so sweet definitely my favorite of the two girls.
Fiona O’Shea, Julia’s maid/housekeeper/best friend. Fiona was so sweet. Her Irish brogue, not to mention her pluck, spiced the book up nicely. She was so dutiful and God-honoring without being annoyingly perfect. I loved her character and I was so glad she got a happy ending!
There were a lot of lodgers, all of whom were unique personalities. But as there are so many I will only touch on my favorite, Mr. Clay. Ambrose Clay was such a dear man. He was always kind and considerate even through his depression. He was one of my very favorite characters.
The other supporting main and side characters were good. They added to the story beautifully. My hat’s off to Mrs. Blackwell! Her characters were superb.
Plot
The plot of The Widow of Larkspur Inn was very enjoyable. The story was definitely a slower pace than most books I read, this wasn’t bad however.
One thing that was and is really annoying to me was all the desecration bordering deception Julia had about her husband's secret life. She didn't need to announce it to the world but the whole idea of 'preserving her husbands image for her kids' was stupid. Truth is best.
Some of my only critiques on the story line and pace was the end. This, I felt, was not wholly satisfying. Julia’s romance literally took place in like the last 3% of the book. Now to be honest, Fiona’s romance was more important to me than Julia’s, but I would have preferred more time with Julia’s romance. I don’t even think the way that her romance was laid out was bad, just too short. The ending was abbreviated in my opinion, I would have been happy for another chapter or two.
Other than the above mentioned I felt that the plot and story were organized well. It flowed well and had good passage of time. The characters had time to progress in their character arcs. This book was relaxing and fun to read!
Warnings:
Language/Profanity: None
Violence/Gore/Frightening Scenes: None
Sex/Nudity: There is one comment that is suggestive of immoral behavior. Not a big deal for older readers, and families could easily skip.
August 11, 2010
Well, this was an interesting reading experience.
I started this over a week ago. It started off somewhat boring (2 stars), the middle portion was really good and engrossing (4 stars), and the end was weak, hurried, and too preachy for my own personal taste (2 stars). I do give Blackwell kudos for presenting the message of Jesus Christ in a way that made sense within the story context. However, the testimony seemed to be really heavy-handed at the very end, whereas it was sprinkled lightly throughout the first and middle portions of the book, which made it an uneven read for me.
Not sure that I'll read the next two in the series, however, as this foray into inspirational literature was ok, but not totally satisfying for me. However, fans of inspirational romance would probably greatly enjoy this series, as Blackwell is a capable writer. Her characters are interesting and have hangups and problems that do not magically go away because of their faith in God, which is a good message.
I started this over a week ago. It started off somewhat boring (2 stars), the middle portion was really good and engrossing (4 stars), and the end was weak, hurried, and too preachy for my own personal taste (2 stars). I do give Blackwell kudos for presenting the message of Jesus Christ in a way that made sense within the story context. However, the testimony seemed to be really heavy-handed at the very end, whereas it was sprinkled lightly throughout the first and middle portions of the book, which made it an uneven read for me.
Not sure that I'll read the next two in the series, however, as this foray into inspirational literature was ok, but not totally satisfying for me. However, fans of inspirational romance would probably greatly enjoy this series, as Blackwell is a capable writer. Her characters are interesting and have hangups and problems that do not magically go away because of their faith in God, which is a good message.
June 21, 2015
American bible belt costume drama masquerading (poorly) as English Victorian romance/family drama.
They say "never judge a book by its cover" and, in the case of this book, by its blurb either. I was taken in by both and had reached chapter four before I was hit by the bait and switch. After a promising, if somewhat slow, start, the story suddenly reveals its true nature-Christian romance. It was an unexpected turn but I continued since I'd already invested my time and have had positive experiences with this genre in the past. That, it turned out was a mistake. I haven't the time or inclination to list all the things that I found just plain wrong with this book so I'll limit myself to the three most frustrating.
The setting was England in name only. The characters, village, society and portrayal of religion was 100% American. For example the children are studying American history in school-in Victorian England-and adults are reading imported American newsletters. Other than this there was a distinctly American flavour to the story that I'm sure is only detectable to those not native to the USA. Why not just set the story where it, to all intents and purposes took place, America?
The Christian element was about as subtle as a brick to the head. The reader is constantly being bludgeoned with the characters' prayers, desire to 'save' others, biblical quotes, references and such. I consider myself a regular Christian but this is the type of evangelizing that sends the less devout running for cover.
Finally I might expect a common phrase of sorts to appear a couple of times but the number of times somebody comes out with "thank you for saying that" bordered on ridiculous.
I finished this book but more because it was a train wreck I couldn't look away from than because I felt any continued interest in the story.
Such high expectations, such deep disappointment.
They say "never judge a book by its cover" and, in the case of this book, by its blurb either. I was taken in by both and had reached chapter four before I was hit by the bait and switch. After a promising, if somewhat slow, start, the story suddenly reveals its true nature-Christian romance. It was an unexpected turn but I continued since I'd already invested my time and have had positive experiences with this genre in the past. That, it turned out was a mistake. I haven't the time or inclination to list all the things that I found just plain wrong with this book so I'll limit myself to the three most frustrating.
The setting was England in name only. The characters, village, society and portrayal of religion was 100% American. For example the children are studying American history in school-in Victorian England-and adults are reading imported American newsletters. Other than this there was a distinctly American flavour to the story that I'm sure is only detectable to those not native to the USA. Why not just set the story where it, to all intents and purposes took place, America?
The Christian element was about as subtle as a brick to the head. The reader is constantly being bludgeoned with the characters' prayers, desire to 'save' others, biblical quotes, references and such. I consider myself a regular Christian but this is the type of evangelizing that sends the less devout running for cover.
Finally I might expect a common phrase of sorts to appear a couple of times but the number of times somebody comes out with "thank you for saying that" bordered on ridiculous.
I finished this book but more because it was a train wreck I couldn't look away from than because I felt any continued interest in the story.
Such high expectations, such deep disappointment.
November 17, 2015
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up
Best for Ages: 15 and up
Driven by dread and her desire to provide for her children, Julia decides to turn the dilapidated inn into a lodging house. But can she--who was accustomed to servants attending to every need--do what needs to be done and cope when boarders begin arriving? And then an eligible new vicar moves into town...
I don’t think there is a fiction book I have enjoyed as much since earlier in the year. It has also been a very long time since I have read a book for adults that wasn’t centered around romance. Yes, this book has some romance, but that really isn’t the focus of the book.
Julia was my favorite part of the book. Her attitude in the face of hard circumstances was so different than most books. She actually had a good attitude, with some understandable moments of irritation and frustration. So many main characters of books are dramatic and have rotten attitudes and then learn their lesson. Julia had lessons to learn, but she has the attitude thing down.
All the other characters were so charming that I cannot wait to see what happens to them in the next book. They were all charming, but each had their own problems. The actor who has spells of despondency (we would call him bi-polar now), the old lady that is so rude her son kicked her out, the two gossips who make lace, and the nobleman who thinks of nothing but his flowers. There are many more characters, but it was never confusing to keep up with them. They all made up a rich tapestry of characters that make up the town of Gresham.
The author obviously researched the time period, including little details of daily life, making this book feel very real and believable. The descriptions made it very easy to visualize the town and places.
The message of the book was not hard-hitting, but the characters’ faith was unmistakable. In a very subtle yet powerful way it is shown that God does not always take away our troubles, but makes something beautiful out of them.
I highly recommend this book for those who like historical fiction, stories that feel real, and are looking for a book that feels different than most Christian fiction.
Best for Ages: 15 and up
Driven by dread and her desire to provide for her children, Julia decides to turn the dilapidated inn into a lodging house. But can she--who was accustomed to servants attending to every need--do what needs to be done and cope when boarders begin arriving? And then an eligible new vicar moves into town...
I don’t think there is a fiction book I have enjoyed as much since earlier in the year. It has also been a very long time since I have read a book for adults that wasn’t centered around romance. Yes, this book has some romance, but that really isn’t the focus of the book.
Julia was my favorite part of the book. Her attitude in the face of hard circumstances was so different than most books. She actually had a good attitude, with some understandable moments of irritation and frustration. So many main characters of books are dramatic and have rotten attitudes and then learn their lesson. Julia had lessons to learn, but she has the attitude thing down.
All the other characters were so charming that I cannot wait to see what happens to them in the next book. They were all charming, but each had their own problems. The actor who has spells of despondency (we would call him bi-polar now), the old lady that is so rude her son kicked her out, the two gossips who make lace, and the nobleman who thinks of nothing but his flowers. There are many more characters, but it was never confusing to keep up with them. They all made up a rich tapestry of characters that make up the town of Gresham.
The author obviously researched the time period, including little details of daily life, making this book feel very real and believable. The descriptions made it very easy to visualize the town and places.
The message of the book was not hard-hitting, but the characters’ faith was unmistakable. In a very subtle yet powerful way it is shown that God does not always take away our troubles, but makes something beautiful out of them.
I highly recommend this book for those who like historical fiction, stories that feel real, and are looking for a book that feels different than most Christian fiction.
October 19, 2021
4.5⭐
I absolutely adored this book. Will definitely read the next in the series.
I absolutely adored this book. Will definitely read the next in the series.
February 24, 2017
This was a really sweet comfort read. The setting of the village of Gresham and the tenants of Larkspur Inn were charming, and I enjoyed their stories & interaction together. The plot moved a little slowly at times, but it had some sweet and comedic moments. I did feel like some of the ideas of faith were expressed in a way that was a bit too modern for the time period, and I was weary of the main character, Julia's, tendency to pose all of her thoughts in the form of questions. I think it was meant to be introspection, and a bit of that is great, but it became repetitive. My favorite part was the different characters, and I liked how some of them did get a happy ending, while some of them are still in progress.
Recommended if you're in the mood for a gentle historical that focuses more on character interactions and vignette-type stories. I really enjoyed this one, and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Recommended if you're in the mood for a gentle historical that focuses more on character interactions and vignette-type stories. I really enjoyed this one, and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
January 20, 2020
Splendid, just splendid. What a wonderful light but thoroughly enjoyable read. Between Julia and the many guests at Larkspur Inn and the many faces of Gresham coating the pages with warmth and light humor this will certainly be a favorite of mine. There were so many characters to this book and I loved it. There was always something new going on with the guests and friends in town. It moved along quite nicely and I'll have to say I was pleased with every aspect of this book and It's many details of whimsy. I will certainly embark on a quest to find number two in this book The Courtship of the Vicar's Daughter. This book welcomed you in this quaint village town and I was dreadful at the end when I had to leave.
2nd time reading: An excellent example of the romance saturated genre of Christian Historical Fiction!
I wish there were more like The Widow of Larkspur Inn with a very understated romance. Christian Fiction for me has become way to romance focused.
2nd time reading: An excellent example of the romance saturated genre of Christian Historical Fiction!
I wish there were more like The Widow of Larkspur Inn with a very understated romance. Christian Fiction for me has become way to romance focused.
February 11, 2023
Hmmm this was such a good one! The ending had me a bit teary and I just loved the characters and the character development 🤌🏼
September 5, 2016
Oh, where do I begin? This has been one of my favorite books lately. I was enjoying it so much and just getting into all the characters, thinking a plot twist was coming and it would be ending soon, when I thought to see how far along in the book I was. To my surprise, my kindle said I'd only read less than 25%. I was DELIGHTED. Usually when that happens I think to myself, "Ugh, you mean I have to suffer with 75% more of this book?"
Character after character was introduced, but the development of each character was done so well that it wasn't overpowering. Rather it was like you were becoming familiar with friends: some you like right away, and some you have to learn a lot more about before you trust yourself to like them... Just like in our own lives.
There is so much to this book to give an adequate synopsis, and I'm sure others have given decent story details to satisfy, so I won't go into it.
I love when a book can tell stories about how someone grows in their own heart and we are allowed to learn from their process without the author preaching. I'm a Christian through and through, so it's not that I don't want to learn more about my faith or how God works in others lives. But far too many authors I've read lately give little thought to the actual plot, or characters, or even the reader's enjoyment. Instead they become preachers in their novel, and the art of good writing is lost. Ms. Blackwell, however, teaches plenty without losing that art. She weaves these beautiful theological, apologetical truths into the musings, the discussions and even the mishaps of nearly all the characters.
Oh, not exactly a spoiler, but there is one character I learned the most from, and it wasn't the vicar. It was the actor who suffered from something akin to bipolar disorder, who, through his reasonings and impressive conclusions I learned the most.
I have never read anything by this author until this book, but I fully intend to read many more after this. This is one book and one author I will not forget. Bravo!
Character after character was introduced, but the development of each character was done so well that it wasn't overpowering. Rather it was like you were becoming familiar with friends: some you like right away, and some you have to learn a lot more about before you trust yourself to like them... Just like in our own lives.
There is so much to this book to give an adequate synopsis, and I'm sure others have given decent story details to satisfy, so I won't go into it.
I love when a book can tell stories about how someone grows in their own heart and we are allowed to learn from their process without the author preaching. I'm a Christian through and through, so it's not that I don't want to learn more about my faith or how God works in others lives. But far too many authors I've read lately give little thought to the actual plot, or characters, or even the reader's enjoyment. Instead they become preachers in their novel, and the art of good writing is lost. Ms. Blackwell, however, teaches plenty without losing that art. She weaves these beautiful theological, apologetical truths into the musings, the discussions and even the mishaps of nearly all the characters.
Oh, not exactly a spoiler, but there is one character I learned the most from, and it wasn't the vicar. It was the actor who suffered from something akin to bipolar disorder, who, through his reasonings and impressive conclusions I learned the most.
I have never read anything by this author until this book, but I fully intend to read many more after this. This is one book and one author I will not forget. Bravo!
August 20, 2017
While it took a few chapters to become engaged in the story and characters, once I did, I found this novel to be charming. I recommend The Widow of Larkspur Inn for fans of Julie Klassen's The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill.
June 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! I loved Julia and her children! The kids were so cute and precious-I especially loved getting to see 13 year old Phillip’s POV every once and a while. He was so sweet! I love a good innkeeper story, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint! It reminded me a lot of Julie Klassen’s The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill, but in a Victorian setting. There are a lot of POVs in this book, but I enjoyed all of them. The only one I found kind of boring was Andrew’s. Idk what it was about him, but he wasn’t my absolute favorite character, even though he wasn’t bad. He was just…dull. Overall, a really good book, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series!😊
January 1, 2021
2020 Update: It's been four years since I first read this book. It hasn't gotten any less preachy on a re-reading, but my reaction to it has changed somewhat. First, I have since read almost all of Ms. Blackwell's books, and she's a wonderful, accomplished writer. I have given 5 stars to several of her subsequent books. Second, when I first read this book, the preaching overshadowed the story for me. This time I focused more on the story and characters than on my annoyance with the preaching, and I realized what a great book this was. So, I'm changing my original rating of 3 stars to 4 stars.
I believe that this was the first book of Ms. Blackwell's that I had read. In my original review of this book I said that the heavy handed preaching detracted from an otherwise well written book. In the subsequent books I have read by this author, she used a much lighter and subtler touch on the religious preaching, which gave her fine writing a chance to shine through.
Original Review from 2016
I found this book to be very preachy-full of sermonizing, evangelizing, and the like. Just the type of book that drives secular readers - like me - running for the hills.
The reason I stuck with this book is because despite all the considerable proselytizing I really like Miss Blackwell's stories. She deftly handles a large cast of characters, and juggles several plot lines at once. She creates a marvelous universe - of families, villages, and the like. And her myriad and engaging characters have very individual personalities and back stories. So I just fast forwarded through the preaching (and, I have to say, there was a lot of it).
I'm a totally secular reader, but I don't mind if the characters' religious faith is central to their lives. If the religious message is subtle, and handled with nuance and grace, then I'm fine with it. But I felt that I was really bludgeoned with the religious message here. So while the story telling is a solid 4 stars, I can only give the the book 3 stars because the preaching so detracted from an otherwise enjoyable story.
I believe that this was the first book of Ms. Blackwell's that I had read. In my original review of this book I said that the heavy handed preaching detracted from an otherwise well written book. In the subsequent books I have read by this author, she used a much lighter and subtler touch on the religious preaching, which gave her fine writing a chance to shine through.
Original Review from 2016
I found this book to be very preachy-full of sermonizing, evangelizing, and the like. Just the type of book that drives secular readers - like me - running for the hills.
The reason I stuck with this book is because despite all the considerable proselytizing I really like Miss Blackwell's stories. She deftly handles a large cast of characters, and juggles several plot lines at once. She creates a marvelous universe - of families, villages, and the like. And her myriad and engaging characters have very individual personalities and back stories. So I just fast forwarded through the preaching (and, I have to say, there was a lot of it).
I'm a totally secular reader, but I don't mind if the characters' religious faith is central to their lives. If the religious message is subtle, and handled with nuance and grace, then I'm fine with it. But I felt that I was really bludgeoned with the religious message here. So while the story telling is a solid 4 stars, I can only give the the book 3 stars because the preaching so detracted from an otherwise enjoyable story.
October 10, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. I like romance and I usually stick to the "inspirational" romance genre and I liked the fact that the emphasis wasn't on the romance itself, but rather who a real and solid relationship should be centered on God and mutual respect and affection. I will admit the outcome was predictable but it didn't make it any less enjoyable. I loved the characters and even though you really only got to know Phillip well and see his growth out of the three Hollis children, I still enjoyed reading about the other children and also the people in the village and the lodgers of Larkspur Inn. A very sweet book with a lovely message, especially for young ladies who may be too focused on romance and need to remember not to lose themselves in that other person and the relationship and to remember who they are and that if they have a strong relationship with God, it will help them to develop a wonderful and lasting relationship.
August 17, 2021
I loved it! Sort of in the D. E. Stevenson category similar to “Celia’s House”. Also, spiritual like Jan Karon’s Mitford series with likeable characters and a very satisfying story. Looking forward to reading Book 2 in the series.
August 4, 2017
Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.
This was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. There were a couple issues (which I’ll address below; I literally wrote them down because I read this on vacation and was bored), but other than that, I really loved it. Great characters, great plot, great setting. I especially loved Julia, Fiona, Mr. Clay, and … okay, yep, I loved all of them.
So, the negatives:
-Trumpets, baritones, etc. aren’t “wind instruments.” Just sayin’.
-I believe housekeepers were called “Mrs.” even when they weren’t? Correct me if I’m wrong. I don’t know for sure.
-What happened to half-mourning? Julia just seems to hop out of mourning at the end of a year, but that wasn’t how it worked. In fact, it seems like a lot of the rules of mourning were ignored.
-The formatting was pretty awful in the Kindle version I had. Not really a problem wit the book, but, um, I wrote it down, so …
-There were a couple places where the author randomly head-hopped at the very end (about 90%+). And a few typos here and there, I think.
-Were American fashions seriously considered fashionable in England? Okay, yes, maybe they were, but … I’d never heard it before. And, again, I wrote it down, so …
-I don’t believe the English school system was at all like the American school system of the time. I believe you had to pay to put your children in school except in the case of charity schools (which this school didn’t appear to be). (Again, I could be wrong!)
-The ending was a little sudden and rushed. It wasn’t too bad, though.
4.5/5 stars
~Kellyn Roth
This was one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. There were a couple issues (which I’ll address below; I literally wrote them down because I read this on vacation and was bored), but other than that, I really loved it. Great characters, great plot, great setting. I especially loved Julia, Fiona, Mr. Clay, and … okay, yep, I loved all of them.
So, the negatives:
-Trumpets, baritones, etc. aren’t “wind instruments.” Just sayin’.
-I believe housekeepers were called “Mrs.” even when they weren’t? Correct me if I’m wrong. I don’t know for sure.
-What happened to half-mourning? Julia just seems to hop out of mourning at the end of a year, but that wasn’t how it worked. In fact, it seems like a lot of the rules of mourning were ignored.
-The formatting was pretty awful in the Kindle version I had. Not really a problem wit the book, but, um, I wrote it down, so …
-There were a couple places where the author randomly head-hopped at the very end (about 90%+). And a few typos here and there, I think.
-Were American fashions seriously considered fashionable in England? Okay, yes, maybe they were, but … I’d never heard it before. And, again, I wrote it down, so …
-I don’t believe the English school system was at all like the American school system of the time. I believe you had to pay to put your children in school except in the case of charity schools (which this school didn’t appear to be). (Again, I could be wrong!)
-The ending was a little sudden and rushed. It wasn’t too bad, though.
4.5/5 stars
~Kellyn Roth
July 2, 2017
I love stories about people in communities, people in small or large towns that are merely living their day to day lives. This story totally hit that mark for me, it was engaging and filed with lots of different people and their experiences.I normally get annoyed with books that have multiple POV’s but the way this story was written, it was so nice to get other people’s POV’s and understand where everyone was coming from. The only thing I didn’t like . Also I’m excited to start book #2 because I really liked Elizabeth and want to see what happens with her.
Note this book is Christian fiction but not too heavy handed. I would recommend it for people who aren’t that religious but don’t mind reading about small towns with characters that discuss God as part of their everyday lives.
Note this book is Christian fiction but not too heavy handed. I would recommend it for people who aren’t that religious but don’t mind reading about small towns with characters that discuss God as part of their everyday lives.
June 26, 2023
The Widow of Larkspur Inn, #1 in the Gresham Chronicles series by Lawana Blackwell, is a historical Christian fiction with a touch of romance. It opens in London in 1869 during the Victorian period, which is well past the Regency period that I usually read.
Though the book opens in London, very little of the story is spent there. Julia Hollis, a well-to-do doctor's wife, has recently become a widow. After her husband passes away, Julia is told that he was a gambler and that pretty much everything needs to be sold... including her London home. Julia learns that she owns a property the bank deems as worthless: an old coaching inn in the small town of Gresham, which has been abandoned for the past eight years. She and her three children Philip, Aleda, and Grace move there, and Julia hopes to gain enough income to live on by making it into a boarding house.
I purchased this book because I thought it would be a romance. I actually would not consider it as such. There are three romances in the story, but each comprises only a very small portion of the 400+ pages. That said, I think the book itself is beautifully and excellently written. I consider this to be a wonderful slice-of-life kind of story.
What I like:
*The Christian aspect of it is very well done, in my opinion. I like how it shows Julia making brief prayers throughout her days. Later on in the book, it does become a bit more preachy, but it's in the context of a vicar helping a struggling believer.
*I loved the cast of varied and realistic characters.
What I didn't like:
*It's fine for a story to be a fiction rather than a romance. Some people definitely prefer that. But I still feel that one of the romances really needed to be given more time.
*I liked the story but feel that it needs a little more to keep the reader's interest. I like slow-paced stories, but I struggled with momentum a bit on this one. It took me almost two months to finish it.
This is a high quality Christian historical fiction. It's very clean and from that respect, it's appropriate for any age. I will try another Lawana Blackwell book before deciding whether she's one of "my authors."
Though the book opens in London, very little of the story is spent there. Julia Hollis, a well-to-do doctor's wife, has recently become a widow. After her husband passes away, Julia is told that he was a gambler and that pretty much everything needs to be sold... including her London home. Julia learns that she owns a property the bank deems as worthless: an old coaching inn in the small town of Gresham, which has been abandoned for the past eight years. She and her three children Philip, Aleda, and Grace move there, and Julia hopes to gain enough income to live on by making it into a boarding house.
I purchased this book because I thought it would be a romance. I actually would not consider it as such. There are three romances in the story, but each comprises only a very small portion of the 400+ pages. That said, I think the book itself is beautifully and excellently written. I consider this to be a wonderful slice-of-life kind of story.
What I like:
*The Christian aspect of it is very well done, in my opinion. I like how it shows Julia making brief prayers throughout her days. Later on in the book, it does become a bit more preachy, but it's in the context of a vicar helping a struggling believer.
*I loved the cast of varied and realistic characters.
What I didn't like:
*It's fine for a story to be a fiction rather than a romance. Some people definitely prefer that. But I still feel that one of the romances really needed to be given more time.
*I liked the story but feel that it needs a little more to keep the reader's interest. I like slow-paced stories, but I struggled with momentum a bit on this one. It took me almost two months to finish it.
This is a high quality Christian historical fiction. It's very clean and from that respect, it's appropriate for any age. I will try another Lawana Blackwell book before deciding whether she's one of "my authors."
October 18, 2021
I have read many books over the years in the Christian fiction genre and have found most to be poorly written with stories that have little depth. This one is vastly different. There are issues of betrayal, mental health, and loss all woven together within a loving community. Christ is not secondary, but a true anchor and the giver of life. I am most definitely planning to read this ongoing series and more by this author! Thanks for the recommendation, Elizabeth Brink! 🎉🎉🎉
April 15, 2012
My favorite series. The era is awesome. I can picture all the characters walking down the different Lanes. It is just a peaceful series in which I can see myself joyfully living in.
April 10, 2023
If I could give more than five stars, I would. I have adored this book for so long. Reading it again reinforces that feeling. From the setting, to the characters, to the faith content ... 5 stars. :)
April 15, 2024
This book is fantastic and is my first read by this author! I loved everything about it. The writing was great and loved the Christian Content.
June 2, 2015
After her husband's sudden death and the family's financial ruin, Julia and her three children find a new life, and a new home in the country in an abandoned coaching inn. Thankful for a fresh start in her own business and for God's provision, she creates new friendships with those in the village and staying at the inn, finds a deeper faith, healing, and true happiness and contentment.
“When we lose someone we've allowed to be our whole life, we find that we have very little left to sustain us. Not only have we distanced ourselves from God, but we've lost something of ourselves in the process. When my husband passed away, I discovered that my relationship with God had been a shallow one at best, and that I had no reservoir of inner strength to draw from.
The Widow of Larkspur Inn dealt with some very difficult but moving issues (though there were also moments of fun throughout) of depression and sorrow, gambling, parenting, love and romance (in more than one age grouping), forgiveness, jealousy, and a flood of many other everyday human emotional and moral delemna's. Over and over I found myself encouraged and inspired...and highlighting in my kindle passage after passage! I struggled in putting this beautiful story down, not wanting to leave the characters for a moment and excited to see how God was working in each of their lives throughout the book. My most anticipated moment was the conversion of one very loveable character, and the author wrote the scenes of searching and questioning so beautifully and perfectly. No fussy pushing or preaching, just seeing how God moves the soul and reaches out. :)
“Faith would not be neccesary if if one could be sure about everything.”
I can't wait to continue reading through the remaining books in this series! I enjoyed the spiritual depth, the characters, and the little country village. Anyone who watches Cranford and other period dramas would adore this book. ;)
*There are a couple things to note; there is some reference to gambling, and a short scene in the company of a woman of the streets in the beginning, but it wasn't too much to be concerned of and not mentioned in too great a detail. Though with the depth this story takes, I would still recommend for a slightly older audience and not really to young teens.
“When we lose someone we've allowed to be our whole life, we find that we have very little left to sustain us. Not only have we distanced ourselves from God, but we've lost something of ourselves in the process. When my husband passed away, I discovered that my relationship with God had been a shallow one at best, and that I had no reservoir of inner strength to draw from.
The Widow of Larkspur Inn dealt with some very difficult but moving issues (though there were also moments of fun throughout) of depression and sorrow, gambling, parenting, love and romance (in more than one age grouping), forgiveness, jealousy, and a flood of many other everyday human emotional and moral delemna's. Over and over I found myself encouraged and inspired...and highlighting in my kindle passage after passage! I struggled in putting this beautiful story down, not wanting to leave the characters for a moment and excited to see how God was working in each of their lives throughout the book. My most anticipated moment was the conversion of one very loveable character, and the author wrote the scenes of searching and questioning so beautifully and perfectly. No fussy pushing or preaching, just seeing how God moves the soul and reaches out. :)
“Faith would not be neccesary if if one could be sure about everything.”
I can't wait to continue reading through the remaining books in this series! I enjoyed the spiritual depth, the characters, and the little country village. Anyone who watches Cranford and other period dramas would adore this book. ;)
*There are a couple things to note; there is some reference to gambling, and a short scene in the company of a woman of the streets in the beginning, but it wasn't too much to be concerned of and not mentioned in too great a detail. Though with the depth this story takes, I would still recommend for a slightly older audience and not really to young teens.
August 19, 2014
After all the junk I seemed to have read lately (granted I have admitted several times that a lot of it is me and not always the books) this was so refreshing and lovely, like drinking a nice glass of water after traveling in a wasteland. I just thoroughly enjoyed it. It just hits the right note, personally, in every aspect. The romances that happened throughout the 3 books in the series were subtle and did not predominately focus on physical attraction (which is sooooo often the case even in regency or period/historical books not just modern books) but more on emotional & spiritual connection. Yes, there is a spiritual aspect to the series as I believe this is usually classed as Christian Fiction. I have tried Christian Fic/Romance before even rather recently (being a religious person myself & wanting something I knew would be safe & clean) and I just usually can't stomach the heavy handed and often contrived & sometimes over the top sappy stories & spirituality (sorry, it does pain me to say it). Not so with this book! The writing of the spiritual aspects of the book were, to me, so organic and sincere to the characters and the story. Then the portrayal of depression and the other struggles the characters in the town of Gresham go through were all conveyed with accuracy and sensitivity without going to either extreme of making too light of a hard situation or obsessively & darkly dwelling on it (again this is so rare to find in a book!) Then on top of all this there were parts that made me laugh.
If you can't tell I just highly recommend this book and the next two in the series.
If you can't tell I just highly recommend this book and the next two in the series.
March 8, 2013
The Widow of Larkspur Inn is the first book in a series by Lawana Blackwell and focuses on a middle-class English woman Julia Hollis, recently widowed and the mother of three growing children. Julia discovers that her husband was a fierce gambler and is forced to leave London with her three children and reside in the country side. There are many subplot stories within the book and the reader is presented with a range of interesting characters. Fiona O'Shea, Julia's maid and then housekeeper, and her eldest son Phillip were certainly my favorites.
Similiar to other reviewers, there was certainly too much of a lofty attitude in our main female character and often I felt like chucking my Kobo acroos the room! The widowed vicar and his two daughters only appear half-way through the story and seem more interesting than the Hollis family. The father/daughter relationship struggles between the vicar and his eldest daughter quickly take centre stage and I felt this was certainly the better parental relationship. Julia spends so much of the first part of the story lamenting about how she had allowed servants to have too much say with her childrearing and makes a declaration that it will not be like this is the country. However, there is very little heartfelt dialogue or interactions with her children beyond those few chapters. She spends most of the book harping on her children and coming across as way to condescending.
Similiar to other reviewers, there was certainly too much of a lofty attitude in our main female character and often I felt like chucking my Kobo acroos the room! The widowed vicar and his two daughters only appear half-way through the story and seem more interesting than the Hollis family. The father/daughter relationship struggles between the vicar and his eldest daughter quickly take centre stage and I felt this was certainly the better parental relationship. Julia spends so much of the first part of the story lamenting about how she had allowed servants to have too much say with her childrearing and makes a declaration that it will not be like this is the country. However, there is very little heartfelt dialogue or interactions with her children beyond those few chapters. She spends most of the book harping on her children and coming across as way to condescending.
February 27, 2023
3.5🌟 It was really tough for me to consider how to rate this book. For writing quality, coziness and characters it was truly a 5🌟 read for me. I loved the location, many likable and well-drawn characters and the general story. But, the religious nature of the story and direct bible entries in some chapters was not for me. I am a spiritual person and I enjoy books with a deeper message and meaning. Elizabeth Goudge is an author with whom I feel a connection and I adore her books.
For me, personally, I felt that this book was a bit too preachy, though I tried hard to get through the more bible-heavy parts. I have nothing at all against the bible, but I felt like it was too much. It was a little upsetting to read about a character who clearly had a mental illness and needed professional help being told that finding God is the only answer. It may be part of the answer for some, but it made me sad to read that because people suffering from depression need actual, practical help, not just spiritual.
I wish so much that I could continue with the series because I loved the characters and the village so much (especially Fiona). But, this book just had more and more of a religious nature the longer I read until I almost didn't finish it. I'm glad I did, but I think this type of story is just not for me. If only the author went a little lighter on the subject, I would be able to finish the series. Maybe I will give it another try some day.
For me, personally, I felt that this book was a bit too preachy, though I tried hard to get through the more bible-heavy parts. I have nothing at all against the bible, but I felt like it was too much. It was a little upsetting to read about a character who clearly had a mental illness and needed professional help being told that finding God is the only answer. It may be part of the answer for some, but it made me sad to read that because people suffering from depression need actual, practical help, not just spiritual.
I wish so much that I could continue with the series because I loved the characters and the village so much (especially Fiona). But, this book just had more and more of a religious nature the longer I read until I almost didn't finish it. I'm glad I did, but I think this type of story is just not for me. If only the author went a little lighter on the subject, I would be able to finish the series. Maybe I will give it another try some day.
January 28, 2013
I gave this my 50 page rule and then some.
Like so many Fiction titles written for white, middle class evangelical women this was just too period-inaccurate for me to enjoy reading. Characters who are supposedly British upper class in Victorian England speak in modern vernacular. Irish characters speak American English.
All of the conversations and attitudes about and toward God are held with our current cultural approach to religion. Concepts upon which this book relies heavily--Christ as personal saviour--were not the Christianity of Victorian England.
Coincidences and easy solutions (here's £100 from an unexpected source; here's a fully-furnished inn free of charge) come up enough to make all possible conflict seem null.
But what lost me were the neighbours across the way with their idiotic "your free house is haunted" story, as well as the heroine's rude replies. The book's lead character often forgets to act like a real person because she's busy moralizing.
I'm a devout Christian. I wish more people would take care to write better books when they choose to be a literary representation of Christianity.
Like so many Fiction titles written for white, middle class evangelical women this was just too period-inaccurate for me to enjoy reading. Characters who are supposedly British upper class in Victorian England speak in modern vernacular. Irish characters speak American English.
All of the conversations and attitudes about and toward God are held with our current cultural approach to religion. Concepts upon which this book relies heavily--Christ as personal saviour--were not the Christianity of Victorian England.
Coincidences and easy solutions (here's £100 from an unexpected source; here's a fully-furnished inn free of charge) come up enough to make all possible conflict seem null.
But what lost me were the neighbours across the way with their idiotic "your free house is haunted" story, as well as the heroine's rude replies. The book's lead character often forgets to act like a real person because she's busy moralizing.
I'm a devout Christian. I wish more people would take care to write better books when they choose to be a literary representation of Christianity.
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