The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House
Mechanical mystique abounds in Joanna Davidson Politano’s The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House, a Christian romance novel set against the bleak, beautiful backdrop of early twentieth-century England.
Abandoned by her mother at a young age, Sydney finds refuge among machines and books more than people. From within the safe confines of her caring Aunt Lottie’s curiosity shop, she develops a talent for repairing broken machinery. When a mysterious woman darkens the door of the shop one day with an unusual clock, Sydney is whisked into intrigue over an inheritance—her great-uncle Emmett’s estate, Blakely House.
Isolated on an island near Northumberland, the house holds numerous technological wonders, promising financial stability to Sydney and Aunt Lottie. Sydney, however, is only one of several potential heirs, and Emmett’s most recent will is missing. Conniving, wizard-styled Dane and business-minded Tom have self-interested motivations for wanting the house; they are willing to do whatever it takes to secure the inheritance. Sydney navigates unfamiliar waters to discover all the secrets of the house and of Emmett himself. With the aid of a housekeeper, Angel, and a butler, André, she unlocks both the house and her heart, finding a new sense of purpose.
Throughout, themes of brokenness and repair resonate. Although she possesses multiple strengths, Sydney views herself as fragmented and unwanted. She struggles with feelings of doubt in herself and in the Christian faith of her childhood. Her close perspective sharpens this spiritual tension. Her experiences in the house soon dissolve the barriers she uses to keep the outside world and God at bay. Embracing her own uniqueness, she unearths confidence rooted in faith rediscovered, and love blooms.
In the redemptive historical novel The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House, perceived flaws are turned into strengths when illuminated by the light of grace.
Reviewed by
Meagan Logsdon
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