The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen

One thing I enjoy reading about is a strong, independent woman and Julie Klassen does not disappoint! Miss Mariah Aubrey has to leave home following a scandal. She is sent to live in the gatehouse of her aunt's estate, tucked away from society and further shame. Her aunt passes away, leaving the estate to the  As money starts to run out, Mariah decides to enlist the help of her brother (if he's willing to associate with her) to get some of her writing  out, anonymously, of course.

Captain Matthew Bryant has returned to the  mainland in hopes of leaving behind the sea-faring life and settling down with a certain young lady that once burned him. He leases the estate from the money-troubled son, who is rummaging around the estate for something.

Can the gatehouse continue holding its secrets or will they be found out? 

The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen

I found the upstairs/downstairs aspect of this book interesting. Emma is a transparent, learned, and witty young women looking to improve her father's spirit after the loss of her mother two years ago and the final student leaving their academy. The receive a letter that invites them out to the Weston's home to teach the two younger of four boys. They accept and are soon on their way. When they arrive, it seemed more of a shock and inconvenience. Lady Weston has a very cold, indifferent attitude toward Emma and her father. They are shown their living quarters but told to stay away from a certain area.

Lessons begin, but there are some odd things happening, specifically to Emma. Lady Weston is hiding something.

The older two brothers had already spent time at the Smallwood's academy years ago. Emma is reacquainted with them.

Trouble mounts and Emma is taught what it means to trust God.