Ashes on the Moor

I really loved the atmospheric writing in this story. It tapped into much of the bleak mood associated with moors and life near them that's present in many classics, and that brought the late-Victorian feel of the story to life very effectively. Added to that, the heroine has just lost her family and everything she has ever known, getting dumped in a small country school to sink or swim as a gravely unqualified teacher.

I loved her pluck as she realizes she can't give up or give in, that she has to fight to gain a future. And before long she bonds with the local children, and she's ready to start fighting for them too.

I loved the banter between her and her neighbor, who's so clearly ready to take her down a notch or two but then ready also to help her learn how to survive.

The layers in the story kept me flipping pages and it was hard to put it aside to do anything else.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.