THE SECRET OF PEMBROOKE PARK by Award-winning Author, Julie Klassen

London, England, May 1817


From the opening line to the very last—all the way to the end of the epilogue, Julie Klassen bound me to the pages. Her winsome and dark characters drew me into the situations, concerns, and mysteries that each one held secret from each other and from the readers for a time.

THE SECRET OF PEMBROOKE PARK is steeped with mystery as Abagail Foster and her father arrive to inspect their possible temporary home, due to their recent financial woes. My brain immediately tried to figure out why the former family left teacups on the table and their possessions unpacked and in their closets. I’ll bet that you would love to know too!

The characters’ concerns played perfectly into the plot. Abagail and Louisa Foster are sisters whose integrity and goals are revealed to be completely different from one another. Their longings, as well as the curate, Mr. William Chapman, and distant relation, Miles Pembrooke, kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next! Even the least important characters took on life and seemed full-bodied!

A book review just doesn’t do such a book justice. I highly recommend this story to historical fiction lovers. If you’ve not read THE SECRET OF PEMBOOKE PARK, I suggest that you do! 

This was not my first time to read this historical mystery, but it held me with the same strength and interest. This is a story about relationships and riches and the treasures people pursue. THE SECRET OF PEMBROOKE PARK should become a classic! In my estimation and on my bookshelf, it already is.

QUESTIONS FOR JULIE:
 
Have you traveled to England, and is or was western Berkshire an actual location? (What inspired you to write about this town and storyline?) I’m delighted that you did! 

Thank you! Yes, while Pembrooke Park is a fictional estate, Berkshire is a real county in England, west of London. I feel blessed to have traveled to England several times now and have even hosted two group tours there. Lord willing, I will be able to return one of these days.
 
The mystery throughout the story is superb! What inspired you to write this story? 

The idea was inspire by something from my childhood. In the countryside where I grew up, there was a wooded area about a half-mile behind our home. Among the trees was an abandoned house with three walls still standing. I was fascinated to look upon its crumbling walls, the sagging piano, and the tattered blue dress on its hanger. I tried to imagine what had happened to the people who once lived there and why they left so suddenly without their belongings. I found it very satisfying to weave this real-life mystery into The Secret of Pembrooke Park.
 
Who is your favorite character in this mystery? Why?

I enjoyed several characters, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the young clergyman, William Chapman. He is handsome and humble, godly and kind, but also a man’s man—athletic, good-humored, and hardworking.
 
Where do you feel most inspired to write? For example, home, coffee shop, or a hidden cabin in the woods? 😊
 
A lot of my ideas are inspired by traveling and research, but for purely focused writing, I am happiest in my little turret office overlooking the lake.
 
Is there anything you would like to add and tell your readers?

If you enjoyed the mystery elements of this novel, I think (hope!) you will also enjoy my next release, Shadows of Swanford Abbey (December 2021).   
 
What is your favorite way to hear from your readership? 
I enjoy interacting with readers through social media (Facebook and Instagram), and receiving emails at [email protected] always makes my day. Thank you!
 
You can find Julie Klassen at: https://julieklassen.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJulieKlassen
https://www.instagram.com/julie.k.klassen/