I found this first novel by Pam Lecky most enjoyable. Well defined and credible characters, a recognisable setting on the Cumbrian coast, and an era (late 19th century) that felt absolutely right. Add to that a young woman who has learned to fight for her rights, a man who needs to learn some respect, and a plot with some intriguing twists and turns, and the five star reviews are no surprise.
As the plot unfolded, I began to understand Nicholas Maxwell’s attitude towards Louisa Campbell, the young Irishwoman who has inherited the Bowes farm, once part of his own estate. When she first arrives, he knows only that she is the niece of former owner Jack Campbell, a man Maxwell had good reason to hate – and suspect.
The Irish connection, with Fenian bombings and gun-running involved, racked up tension and kept the pages turning. This thread highlighted the early days of the Irish fight for independence and the levels of hatred on both sides. But after all that tension and heightened emotion - and some surprising reveals about the Campbell family - I was longing for a little more passion as The Bowes Inheritance reached its conclusion. But that is a small criticism. This is a well-researched and beautifully written novel, and I shall be looking out for more by Pam Lecky.

Ann Victoria Roberts