Mistress of Rossmor

In 1880, as a realistic single orphaned woman Grace Templar knows to expect little from life and thus wants very little in return. Besides keeping a respectable job, Grace wishes she would stop having the visions that occur anywhere at anytime.While in Rome as a secretary and companion, Grace suffers one of her attacks during a visit to the Forum. Alistair McLean, the lord of Rossmor, observes Grace's peculiar behavior, which he recognizes as a gift. He sees Grace as a tool that he needs to use to gain answers about the events behind his wife's tragic death. Alistair is also attracted to Grace and returns with her to Rossmor where she meets his child Janet. As Alistair and Grace fall in love, someone fears that the new MISTRESS OF ROSSMOR will learn and reveal the truth about what happened to the master's first wife.MISTRESS OF ROSSMOR is a fun tale that combines elements from several sub-genres into a wonderful romance. The lead couple is a delight to observe especially their struggle to not fall in love. Janet is a sympathetic urchin who the audience will hope overcomes the trauma of her mother's death. Part late Victorian, part gothic, part suspense, and part paranormal, Marianne Willman blends the elements into a pleasing reading experience for fans of each sub-genre.Harriet Klausner

Set in 1880. The story began in Rome. Grace Templar was a well-bred, yet penniless, gentlewoman. She was employed by Mrs. Bingley as a secretary, companion, and governess for her spoiled daughter. In her spare time, Grace went to see the Forum Romanum and one of her "spells" hit. The spells were dreams and visions that would strike without warning of the past whenever she got too close to something with strong, and usually tragic, vibrations. This past vision was extremely tragic and Grace passed out. Alistair McLean was the master of Rossmor, located in the Scottish highlands. Due to the way his late wife died, he was very interested in psychology and psychical research. He witnessed Grace's spell and rescued her. (I am skipping much now so I do not give anything vital away.) Alistair and Grace go to Rossmor where Grace began to gain the love and trust of Alistair's ten-year-old daughter, Janet. Rossmor was haunted by "the gray lady" and Grace often felt the presence of Janet's dead mother. In addition, Grace was the victim of several "accidents". Someone wanted her dead! ***** Marianne Willman has written a romance that is perfect for us Gothic lovers! I am seeing more and more books with a gothic flavor. This book is one of the best I have had the pleasure of reading lately! The characters are believable and the plot is well crafted! Highly recommended to all! *****