So I may not love historical fiction, but I have a soft spot in my heart for Victorian England and Charles Dickens. This fulfilled that soft spot.
WriSo I may not love historical fiction, but I have a soft spot in my heart for Victorian England and Charles Dickens. This fulfilled that soft spot.
Writing: ★★ Pacing: ★★★ Christmas Emotions: yes, perfect for the season
I'll be honest here: the writing and the story itself were nothing special. 12 Days at Bleakly Manor was cute and to the point, and ultimately will stand out more for its setting than its characters. The 3 stars is mainly for my personal nostalgia and enjoyment over reading this short novel over a cup of Twinings Christmas Tea.
It's the perfect aesthetic mood book for a cozy study library, complete with a steaming cup of British tea.
It's 1850 in London, and Clara Chapman has fallen on hard times. Her ex-fiance swindled her out of her inheritance money, and she's now living off of the kindness of her ailing elderly Aunt. She's on the decline heading to the grim realities of an unwed woman of no stature. Suddenly, an invitation to stay at Bleakly Manor comes in the form of a carriage and a promise that if she stays for the 12 days of Christmas, she'll receive 500 pounds. Should she take it?
Benjamin Lane has spent the last several months in prison. He was on his way to marry Clara Chapman, his fiance, when a surprise arrest on charge of fraud and embezzlement catches him unawares. He's committed no crime, and he believes Clara is a reason for his arrest. When he is dragged from his cell and told to stay in Bleakly Manor, he thinks its another trick. Will he obtain his freedom and discover who imprisoned him, and why?
A motley crew of guests arrive at Bleakly Manor, and shenanigans ensue. The characters are extremely distinctive—almost too distinct? They felt like caricatures—and Benjamin and Clara obviously collide in a quest to discover the truth of their fated year.
I found the concept cute for the season, but quickly felt bogged down by the oddly slow pacing and lack of significant scenes. A lot of plot happened, but I feel this would have made a much better short story than novella—too much filler. However, I did enjoy it for what it was and will probably read second in the series.
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