By Kirsty McKay

Cover Blurb:

It is 1816, the Year Without A Summer. The population of Great Britain is struggling with the economic impact of the newly ended Napoleonic Wars and a mystifyingly cold spring threatens to destroy the crops and harvests. Fordy Robson, living at Worlds End Inn on the remote No Mans Moor in the North Riding of Yorkshire, naïvely believes the problems facing the nation won’t affect him. With an established lucrative side line dealing in smuggled goods and ambitions to expand his horse breeding enterprise, he thinks he has his future planned out. However, one dark night while out collecting contraband tea he stumbles across a young woman. Initially unaware she is Anna, daughter of Sir Robwyn Stillerton, owner of the estate where the smuggling is based, he finds events and feelings develop beyond his control andFordy begins to realise there is a price to pay for everything in life.

No Mans Moor (The No Mans Moor Series Book 1) By Author Suzanne Stirke – Book Review

A captivating historical drama by Suzanne Stirke that transports readers to the harsh realities of 1816 Yorkshire! This engaging tale of smuggling, romance, and survival against the backdrop of the Year Without A Summer completely drew me in.

The story follows Fordy Robson, the confident young innkeeper of Worlds End Inn on No Mans Moor, who believes he’s got life figured out with his smuggling operation and horse breeding ambitions. The plot unfolds at a measured pace that allows readers to truly immerse themselves in the period and setting, building tension naturally as Fordy’s carefully planned world begins to unravel after a chance encounter with the mysterious Anna Stillerton.

Fordy emerges as a wonderfully complex protagonist whose initial naivety makes his character development all the more compelling. His transformation from self-assured smuggler to a man grappling with unexpected feelings and consequences feels authentic and engaging. The supporting characters, particularly Anna and the inhabitants of No Mans Moor, are equally well-drawn, each adding depth to this richly detailed narrative.

The dialogue captures the essence of the period perfectly, with each character’s voice distinct and credible. Conversations flow naturally while maintaining historical authenticity, helping to ground the story firmly in its time and place.

I found myself completely invested in Fordy’s journey and the growing complications in his life. The author’s skill at building tension while maintaining believable character development kept me turning pages right up to the cliff-hanger ending. (And yes, you’ll definitely want Book 2 ready!) I award No Mans Moor 5 stars!

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