Book details
Secrets & Sapphires
Description
One house, two worlds, dark secrets... The year is 1910. For the past decade, the Averley family has lived a life of luxury in India, but now they must return to Lord Averley's ancestral estate, the sprawling, majestically beautiful Somerton Court. As the household staff hastily prepare for the family's arrival, they receive shocking news: Lord Averley is bringing back a fiancée with three children of her own, and on top of that, there are rumours of a terrible scandal surrounding Lord Averley's resignation as Lieutenant Governor of Bengal. As the family settles in, tensions arise both upstairs and downstairs. Lady Ada must choose between her honour and her heart, Sebastian must fend off ruinous threats from a former servant (and lover...) and gentle housemaid Rose will find herself at the centre of a scandal so enormous it could destroy the Averleys' reputation forever. With plenty of scheming, scandal and sauciness, SECRETS & SAPPHIRES is a thrilling period-drama perfect for fans of Jilly Cooper and DOWNTON ABBEY.
Age
12-17
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
304 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Engaging Historical Setting: 'Secrets & Sapphires' (also known as 'Cinders & Sapphires' in some regions) is set in the early 20th century, providing readers with a rich historical backdrop. The story takes place during a period of significant social change, offering insight into the lives of the aristocracy and the servants who work for them. This setting is perfect for readers who enjoy immersing themselves in a different time period and exploring the customs and conventions of the past.
- Complex Characters and Relationships: The book features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own secrets and desires. The relationships between the characters are complex and multifaceted, including the dynamics within the Averley family and the interactions between the upstairs nobility and the downstairs staff. Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives will find the intricate web of relationships compelling.
- Mystery and Intrigue: At the heart of 'Secrets & Sapphires' is a series of mysteries and scandals that keep the plot engaging and suspenseful. The secrets that the characters harbor drive the story forward and create a sense of intrigue that encourages readers to keep turning the pages to find out what will happen next.
- Themes of Social Class and Change: The novel explores themes of social class, privilege, and the shifting landscape of the British class system in the early 20th century. It delves into the challenges faced by individuals as they navigate a world where the lines between the classes are beginning to blur. Readers interested in social issues and historical transformations will find the book's exploration of these themes thought-provoking.