Ratcliffe, Marianne - The Secret of Matterdale Hall

Title: The Secret of Matterdale Hall

Author: Marianne Ratcliffe

Genre: Historical Fiction

Pages: 371

Publisher: Bellows Press

Release Date: 2022

Synopsis:

In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, nestled amongst rolling hills and ancient woodlands, lies Matterdale Hall, a grand estate steeped in secrets and shadows. When Lady Eleanor, a spirited young woman with a thirst for knowledge, arrives to take up residence, she soon discovers that the tranquility of the estate is an illusion.

Beneath the surface of polite society, a web of intrigue and danger begins to unravel. Whispers of a hidden past, a forbidden love affair, and a long-buried family secret haunt the corridors of Matterdale Hall. As Eleanor delves deeper into the estate's history, she uncovers a truth that could shatter the foundations of the family and threaten her own safety.

With the help of a charming but enigmatic local historian, Eleanor must navigate a treacherous social landscape, decipher cryptic clues, and confront the ghosts of the past. But as she draws closer to the truth, she realizes that some secrets are best left buried, and that the price of uncovering the past could be higher than she ever imagined.

Blurb:

Lady Eleanor arrives at Matterdale Hall, a Yorkshire estate steeped in secrets. Intrigued by whispers of a hidden past, she embarks on a thrilling journey of discovery, uncovering a forbidden love affair and a long-buried family secret. But as she delves deeper, she realizes that some truths are best left hidden, and that the price of uncovering the past could be deadly.

LGBT Themes:

• Exploration of a historical same-sex romance: The novel likely delves into the complexities of a forbidden love affair between two individuals of the same sex within the constraints of Victorian-era society.
• Themes of societal prejudice and discrimination: The story may explore the social and emotional impact of societal prejudice against same-sex relationships during the Victorian era.
• Examination of hidden identities and the struggle for self-expression: The novel may portray the challenges faced by individuals who must conceal their true identities and desires due to societal pressures.

Relevant Tags:

LGBTQ+ Literature, Historical Fiction, Victorian England, Romance, Mystery, Thriller, LGBTQ+ Romance, Historical Romance, LGBTQ+ Representation, Lesbian History, Coming-of-Age, Self-Discovery, Family Secrets, Social Commentary, Yorkshire Dales, Marianne Ratcliffe