The Legacy of Longdale Manor

As the story opens, Gwen learns she has made a major mistake that tarnishes her reputation at work and with her grandfather. She determines to do whatever is needed to regain her grandfather’s trust. What lessons did Gwen learn from making that mistake?

David’s goal was to help his grandmother save Longdale, but he ran into several problems as he worked toward that goal. What were those problems, and how did he overcome them? What did you notice about the way David went after his goals? How did that impact his relationship with Gwen?

Gwen and David did not get off to a good start in their relationship. What were the issues that came up for them early in the story, and how did they work through those? Have you ever learned that your first impression of someone was not correct?

Gwen grew up without a father in her life. How did this impact her? What did she gain by connecting with her father? Fathers play an important role in our lives. What is one lesson you learned from your father?

Charlotte’s journal entries had a great impact on Gwen. What were some of the lessons she learned from Charlotte, and how did they help her resolve the issues she was facing? Have you ever kept a journal or read someone else’s journal?

Charlotte deeply admired her father, but after his death, she learned he had been carrying on a secret affair. Throughout the story, she struggled with hurt, confusion, and bitterness. How did she work through those feelings? Who helped her, and what did they do to guide and comfort her?

Ian was torn between staying at Valley View and working with his family, or returning to Oxford and pursuing an archaeology career. What was drawing him toward archaeology, and what was pulling him to stay at Valley View? What did you think of his decision at the end of the book?

Forgiveness is a theme woven through both the contemporary and historical plots. What made forgiveness difficult for Charlotte? What made it a challenge for Ian? How did the need for forgiveness touch Gwen’s and David’s lives? Did their journeys toward forgiveness motivate you to think about the need to offer forgiveness to someone in your life?

The setting for the book is England’s beautiful Lake District in the northwest section of the country. Have you read any other books or seen any movies set in that area? Did the descriptions motivate you to want to learn more, look up a map, or even plan a visit? What would you like to see if you went to the Lake District?

The role of fathers and the fatherhood of God are important themes in this story. What stood out to you about the fathers in this story? How can a relationship with God help meet needs that our human fathers might not have met?