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Reviewed by Inga Buccella for Readers' Favorite
Restoring Miss Hastings by Edwina Kiernan is a historical fiction novel set in 1850 England. Young Harriet Hastings has recently lost both her parents and is struggling to survive. But a letter from her closest living relative informs her that he is her new guardian. However, since he is out of the country, she learns upon arrival at her new home that she is to be the ward of Edmund Derringer. Edmund lives in Duriel Hall with his sister Ada, servants, and several secrets. From the start, both Harriet and Edmund are awkward with each other. Edmund is apprehensive about being responsible for the young woman. Harriet is self-conscious about living in such splendor. To Edmund’s dismay, Harriet’s natural disposition is friendly and approachable, especially with the service staff. When the horse groom, Silas, and Harriet meet in the gardens, she discovers they have more in common due to their station in life than they do with the Derringers. In addition to various human characters, the Duriel Hall estate also plays a part in the story. A few situations shake Edmund's and Harriet's faith, challenging their trust in each other and God.
Restoring Miss Hastings by Edwina Kiernan is an eloquently written historical romance that had me pleasantly lost, roaming for days on an English estate surrounded by lush gardens. I was intrigued by the hushed, personal conversations between characters of differing economic standings that are reminiscent of the classic works of Jane Austen. Kiernan’s character development is deep and detailed, adding interest to the plot. Her astute knowledge of historic societal class etiquette is astounding. It is a subtle but powerfully written tale. I am also impressed with her ability to intricately examine such relationships in Victorian England, albeit with a Christian outlook. I found the cast of characters fleshed out, and the setting so vividly rendered that on a spring day, I could envision myself picnicking just outside the summer house, in the flowering gardens. Will you join in this indulgence?
