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poisedpen 's review for:

Ashton Hall by Lauren Belfer
3.0
mysterious reflective sad slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

I had high hopes for this as it was billed as a historical fiction / mystery. What I found was more contemporary women’s fiction with a nod towards the historical. It was light on dialogue, heavy on internal thoughts. The romantic relationship seemed forced and lacked chemistry. Aspects of the story required the reader to suspend disbelief (castles / manor houses were notorious for being drafty and damp which would make the conditions of the items found far less pristine). 

What I did like: The religious history lesson (dissolution of the monasteries) and the focus women’s issues and the struggle / fall out faced when we lose ourselves in others and our roles. 

As l've said in the past, no two people read the same book. What may or may not resonate with me may or may not resonate with you! Books are art, art is subjective and that is beautiful.

My Rating: 3 Stars
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