A Winter by the Sea + Giveaway

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal couple’s male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they’ve invited mysterious secrets and the sweet possibility of romance into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers approaches a local publisher in hopes of fulfilling her dream of becoming an author. When he turns her down, his dashing competitor promises to consider her novel if she will first write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily accepts and begins researching with the help of the Duke of Kent’s handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she used to hold dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

My Review:

If I had to describe Julie Klassen’s writing style in one word it would be ‘layered.’ Characters with layered backstories — and not just the MCs but secondary ones as well. Historical elements layered through the story in exacting detail. A plot with enough layers to keep a reader riveted right to the end.

And all that means ‘A Winter By the Sea’ was an immersive read for me. Kinda felt like I was binge-watching a BBC period drama like ‘Larkrise to Candelford’ or ‘Cranford.’ And wouldn’t it be wonderful if some enterprising producer decided to put some of Julie Klassen’s novels on the screen?!

The character-driven plot leaves plenty of time to explore relationships in this quaint seaside village. And, of course, there is romance — a delicious one despite a brief nod to the dreaded — gasp — love triangle! But it was gently done and almost painless. 🙂 And…eeeeepppp!!!…our hero is a man of faith who loves to read! Be still my heart!

‘A Winter By the Sea’ is divinely captivating and utterly addictive.

Of note: This is the second book in the ‘On Devonshire Shores’ series and, while it could be read as a standalone, I think it would be better to read the books in order. You’ll understand the Summers sisters circumstances better and some of the ‘whys and wherefores’ in this story. Would still make total sense as a standalone, you’d just have a richer read if you start with ‘The Sisters of Seaview.’

28 thoughts on “A Winter by the Sea + Giveaway”

  1. Kav, sounds intriguing, but I haven’t read the first in the series so put me down for Sisters of Sea View if I win, please 🙂

    ckbarker at gmail dot come

    Liked by 1 person

  2. Thank you for the review on “A Winter by the Sea”. Sounds amazing and it is now on my TBR list. LOVE the cover and all the shades of purple!

    Can’t wait to read this series. As per your suggestion, if I were fortunate enough to be selected, I would love a copy of “Sisters of Sea View” in order to start this series properly. Thank you for the chance to win a copy.

    2clowns at arkansas dot net

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  3. This is the first series that I’ve read by Julie Klassen and I’m loving it. My choice is A Winter By the Sea; the cover is gorgeous! 
    Sandyavery at comcast dot net

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  4. That is a striking cover, isn’t it? A bit different with it not being just blues or greys or even red/orange streaks of sunshine. Mirrors her plum-colored dress. Imagine photoshop really helps with any marketing photographs nowadays. I have read the first book so would be interested in this Winter by the Sea. Thanks!

    Liked by 1 person

  5. I love her books! I would pick A Winter by the Sea. I have read Sisters of Seaview and loved it.

    pbclark(at)netins(dot)net

    Liked by 1 person

  6. i love Julie Klassen. This one sounds good but I haven’t read the first one so I would like that one please. Thanks for the chance.

    tighefan42atgmaildotcom

    Liked by 1 person

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