The Legacy of Longdale Manor

By: Carrie Turansky

Narrated by: Amy Scanlon

Length: 11 hrs and 20 mins

Publisher's summary

Two women—a century apart—embark on a journey to healing, faith, forgiveness, and romance.

In 2012, art historian Gwen Morris travels to England's Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her prestigious grandfather. While at Longdale Manor, she meets David Bradford—the owner's handsome grandson—who is desperate to save the crumbling estate by turning it into a luxury hotel. When Gwen stumbles upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an intricately carved shepherd's staff similar to one in a photo of her parents, she's left searching for answers.

In 1912, after her father's death, Charlotte Harper uncovers a painful family secret she can only confess to her journal. She and her family travel to the Lake District to stay on a sheep farm, hoping eventually to find a home with Charlotte's grandfather at Longdale Manor, but old wounds and bitter regrets make it a difficult challenge. As Charlotte grows closer to shepherd Ian Storey and rebuilds her shattered faith, she must decide whether she will ever trust in love again.

Praise for The Legacy of Longdale Manor

"This novel will stir your faith--and your desire to visit England's Lake District!"--JULIE KLASSEN, bestselling
author

"Turansky opens the door of Longdale Manor and invites readers to explore the secrets hidden inside."--MELANIE DOBSON, award-winning author

"A beautiful book to warm and lift the heart."--CATHY GOHLKE, Christy Hall of Fame author

©2023 Carrie Turansky (P)2023 Recorded Books

Sweet story

The narrator had a pleasant reading voice, but her character portrayals, particularly the male voices, could be annoying. But, it was a very sweet story set in England’s lovely Lake District

Enjoyable Dual time 1912 & 2012

I really enjoyed this dual time Audible book. We read of faith, love, betrayal, forgiveness, with enjoyable characters portrayed by a very good narrator. I used 1.1 speed. Excellent book!

Faith & Family

A beautiful love story. Atmospheric. Showcasing the Father's love. Full of forgiveness. Unforgettable characters. Everything to love. I'll like to visit the Lakeside district in England. Very satisfying read!

Loved the story! The audiobook was just okay.

Fantastic dual timeline novel by Carrie Turansky! Two women 100 years apart experience love, betrayal, heartache, forgiveness, and reconciliation in this powerful story that explores the impact of father/daughter relationships. Set in England’s gorgeous Lake District, this slow build romantic mystery kept me turning the pages as it switched from Charlotte and Ian in 1912 to Gwen and David in 2012.

1912- After Charlotte Harper’s father dies, she learns the man she looked up to and turned to for spiritual advice had a terrible secret. His betrayal affects not only their finances, but Charlotte’s trust in men. Hoping to find help from her estranged grandfather, her mother and family visit Longdale Manor only to be turned away. Charlotte pours out her feelings in her diary which is later discovered in modern times.

Now living on a sheep farm while her mother prays for reconciliation with her father, Charlotte meets Ian who’s on leave from university. His dream to be an archeologist and travel to Egypt is temporarily postponed to help his family. Charlotte learns valuable lessons on the farm and falls in love with Ian. But, her father’s betrayal shakes her faith and prevents her from giving Ian the benefit of the doubt when problems arise. Will she be able to forgive the past so she can move forward?

2012- Gwen Monroe is sent to Longdale Manor by her grandfather to appraise works of art for auction. The owner is trying to raise funds to save the manor and make needed repairs. David Bradley the owner’s handsome but grumpy grandson plans to turn the manor into a bed and breakfast. As Gwen searches the manor’s contents, she finds a 100 year old diary and a key to her past that may lead to finding her long lost father.

I loved how the two stories were linked. Both women had complicated relationships with their fathers and needed to find forgiveness and reconciliation. Charlotte’s character growth was remarkable as she learns a new way of life and experiences first love. I loved her excitement and desire to help when the lambs were born. I was frustrated at times with her stubbornness, but could understand why she was afraid to trust. I loved Gwen & David’s grumpy/sunshine relationship and seeing it progress to more.

The messages of faith, forgiveness, and reconciliation were touching and heartfelt. I loved Gwen’s decision to choose forgiveness. I also loved Ian’s sacrifice to help his family. The two timelines were equally interesting to me. Usually I prefer one to the other, but in this story I enjoyed both. Each romance was a slow build, believable relationship built on foundations of friendship. While I figured out some of the mystery, everything played out in an enjoyable way.

The audiobook version was just okay for me. The narrator had such a quiet voice especially when doing male voices and it was difficult to hear. I found myself needing to turn it up only to have to turn it down again. She did a great job reflecting the emotions of the characters.

Highly recommend to historical romance, and fiction fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook version from Audible. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4 1/2 raised to 5!