1731: When his youngest son is killed in a tragic accident, Sir William Keyt, master of Norton House, buries himself in his fortune. He builds a second vast mansion on his grounds, squandering money he does not have on luxury his family does not want.

Keyt has long been blind to the desires of others. His eldest son has fallen in love with their young maidservant, Molly Johnson, a ray of light in a household dimmed by tragedy. Keyt wants Molly for himself and, driven mad with lust and jealousy, he will do anything to have her…

Burnt Norton

by Caroline Sandon

My review

Burnt Norton was not on any of my reading lists. Caroline Sandon/Montague was not an author I was aware of previously, unfortunately. The hardcover copy I borrowed belongs to the cottage we are currently staying in, in Aston Sub-edge (Gloucestershire). It was recommended to me by the owner of the cottage and given that it is set right here I was too intrigued not to give it a go.

I’m so glad I did as it is a gem of a read!

The book is based on the true story of the Keyt (pronounced Kite) family who lived at the house from the early 1700s. I love reading about how people lived during these times. Especially well-off people! Despite the obvious societal differences between then and now, a lot was very much the same. Families still faced tragedies and grief. People still fell in love, or lust, with those they shouldn’t. Secrets were kept. Husbands were unfaithful and often got away with awful crimes just because of who they were. Sons and daughters weren’t always able to marry who they loved due to the lady/man not being of acceptable standing within society. People made decisions through jealousy and selfishness, sometimes with devastating consequences, mental illness was often unrecognised and untreated…. Families could be just as complicated then as now. The Keyt family are a perfect example. I found them utterly fascinating!

I love the fact that the author now lives at the house herself. What a beautiful place to reside. Surrounded by so much history. It must be amazing!

This story is so full of emotion. Love, lust, loss, greed, jealousy, acceptance, and hope.

My heart broke for Molly. She was my favourite character, I think. I can’t even begin to imagine how she coped with all she went through.

I really liked Elizabeth too.

Such a beautifully written story. One which I think will stay with me for a long time to come.

I very much recommend.

Buy your copy here….

Happy reading! 🙂