Reviews:

“Klassen has written an amazing historical novel. Her style may remind readers of Jane Austen and Lawana Blackwell, and she handles a 19th-century taboo with grace, style and respect.”
--Romantic Times

"This is truly one of the most emotionally gripping novels I've ever read and it is sure to make my best of 2008 list. My heart pounded with anticipation so many times I lost count. There were so many powerful subplots that my head is still swimming with amazement, and my heart is still gripped by this strangely sad, yet hopeful and deeply romantic tale of love and loss, of sacrifice and reward. Bottom line...This story is so full of passion that it will make your heart sing."
--Michelle Sutton, edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com

"This was an excellent first novel and one of the best historical novels I've read this year. I am looking forward to Julie Klassen's next book. HIGHLY recommended."
--Deborah Khuanghlawn, books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com

“A strong and entertaining story that you’ll finish with a sigh. Read it and tell your friends to buy it too.
--Lauraine Snelling, Bestselling Author

“Ms. Klassen has penned an exquisite first novel that echoes the era of Jane Austen in both setting and style…. This novel engaged me from the first page, and I can highly recommend Lady of Milkweed Manor to anyone who delights in Regency romance.
--Tamela McCann, Historical Novels Review

"..not only a beautiful tale but a fascinating study of women's roles in a time not so terribly distant. I'd say bravo on a fine debut and here's hoping for another finely crafted historical from Klassen soon."
--Violet Nesdoly, Blogcritics.org

"The characters are strong – the writing excellent – and the love that blooms for Charlotte, in many ways and with many characters, will leave you immensely and blissfully happy that good things actually do come to good people after their dues have been paid."
--Amy Lignor, OnceUponaRomance.com

"It’s a rare book that forces me to press the pause button on my life and simply devour the story—this is one such book. Well-written, emotionally charged, unexpected plot twists, and an amazing balance of foreshadowing with backstory all lend to a remarkable debut novel by author Julie Klassen. The tension builds throughout and keeps the reader guessing until the last page.
Klassen has captured the best of Austen and Brontë. There are complex relationships and plenty of snooty nobility. The ambiance is generally foreboding and ominous which sets quite a gothic stage. This mixture combines into a haunting quality, leaving the characters on the mind of the reader days after the story has been finished…."
--Michelle Griep, novelreviews.blogspot.com

"The SILENT GOVERNESS left me speechless. My measure of a good book is in the length of time I can set it down and forget about it—the longer I can go without picking it back up, the less impact it has on me. This was one story I wasn't able to put down at all from beginning to end.

Full of intrigue and romance, THE SILENT GOVERNESS is steeped in gothic atmosphere and fascinating research. As always, it is clear that Ms. Klassen has done her homework, bringing the life of a nineteenth-century governess into focus with rich details and interesting facts.

Ms. Klassen's writing is lyrical and beautiful. It's the kind of voice that sweeps you away and transports you to another time and place. I couldn't help but be completely engrossed in Olivia's world and often found myself biting my nails, wondering what would happen next. Each dark and mysterious plot thread is woven to perfection, and when all is revealed this compelling tale leaves readers with a greater appreciation for both our earthly and Heavenly father.

I have been a fan of Ms. Klassen's since reading her debut book, THE LADY OF MILKWEED MANOR, and it is clear that her books just keep getting better and better. She is a must read author!"
--Cindy, ck2skwipsandkritiques.com