My Recommendation: The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

I can't think of a better way to start out the new year than with a recommendation for a great book in one of my favorite genres - inspirational historical fiction.

What It's About:
Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt--and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall?

Observing both brothers as an "invisible" servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?
 
My Thoughts:
I loved this book! I've read several of Julie Klassen's novels, and while I enjoyed the others, this one was by far my favorite. I read it in one day - part of that was because I was sick in bed, but part of it was because it was such a fun story and I had to know what was going to happen next. This book delivers the perfect combination of interesting characters, romance, mystery and life in a great English house.

While the book takes place in 1815, I found the portrayal of life upstairs and down in a wealthy household to be very similar to Downton Abbey - which starts up again in just a few days! - though the show takes place in the early 20th century. Crazy to see how little things changed between servants and masters in the course of a 100 years!

Find it here on Amazon and here at Barnes and Noble.