Alisa W. (caliope220) reviewed A Breath of Fresh Air on 9/6/2008 + 16 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 7

Julie Klassen's debut novel, Lady of Milkweed Manor, was a delight to read. The beautiful cover art first caught my eye, and the blurb on the back cover sounded intriguing enough, but one is often wary of debut novelists. I am happy to report that Klassen's work falls prey to none of the usual problems of first-time authors.

The story revolves around a young woman, Miss Charlotte Lamb, a young lady of high-society who finds herself pregnant and unwed in 19th century England. She is banished to a manor for women in her predicament - nicknamed Milkweed Manor due to the milkweeds that grow in abundance all around the place. Charlotte's story is one of heartache and growth, loss and life, and most importantly, love. The love between a mother and child, and the Father and his children is poignantly and thoughtfully portrayed.

She approaches her story with the grace and ease of a seasoned writer. The plot moves smoothly and elegantly, and though predictable at times, will still keep you glued to the page. Klassen's debut is truly a breath of fresh air in a genre that is sorely lacking in skillful writers and researchers. Which brings me to my second point: Klassen is clearly a careful and deliberate researcher, which is just as important to a period-piece as her polished prose. The author is able to effortlessly weave in fascinating and sometimes disturbing facts from the time period.

Lady of Milkweed Manor is definitely worth reading and I look forward to Klassen's future novels with great anticipation.

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