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The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill

Tales From Ivy Hill, Book 1

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The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill

By: Julie Klassen
Narrated by: Elizabeth Jasicki
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About this listen

The lifeblood of the Wiltshire village of Ivy Hill is its coaching inn, The Bell. But when the innkeeper dies suddenly, his genteel wife, Jane Bell, becomes the reluctant owner. Jane has no notion of how to run a business. However, with the town's livelihood at stake and a large loan due, she must find a way to bring new life to the inn.

Despite their strained relationship, Jane turns to her resentful mother-in-law, Thora, for help. Formerly mistress of The Bell, Thora is struggling to find her place in the world. As she and Jane work together, they form a measure of trust, and Thora's wounded heart begins to heal. When she encounters two men from her past, she sees them - and her future - in a different light.

With pressure mounting from the bank, Jane employs innovative methods to turn the inn around, and puzzles over the intentions of several men who seem to have a vested interest in the place. Will her efforts be enough to save The Bell? And will Thora embrace the possibility of a second chance at love?

©2016 Julie Klassen (P)2016 Recorded Books Christian Fiction Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Historical Fiction Regency Regency Romance Romance Heartfelt
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I enjoyed the original and unpredictable story line and I look forward to the next book in the series.

Original story and real characters.

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Terrific historical detail and believable character development. With the odd unexpected twist, looking forward to the next in the series.

A great period piece!!!

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I really enjoyed this story, and felt like I was in it. The intertwining of the characters stories, along with the slow reveal of what was really happening behind the scenes was captivating and intriguing. I think this would make a great mini series on TV.

The depth to the characters was fascinating

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Readers may find the style of this story to their taste if they enjoy gentle meandering stories. There are enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing as to where it is going and the characterisations are good, but I do find Klassen's writing more ponderous and long winded than it perhaps needs to be. Pleasant listening but I would like to see more excitement at times, although that could be in part due to the narration The narrator is very good and her style suits the writing but I do wonder if a different narrator might imbue the writing with a touch more drama. As it was I increased the speed a touch to make it sound more normal. I could have gone to sleep otherwise!

Pleasant with twists and turns but don't be afraid to increase the narration speed.

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I read this story in my reader many years ago but really enjoyed listening to it and realising how much I had forgotten. Julie Klassen is one of my favourite authors

Women are capable too

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