As the story opens in 1914, the reader is captured by intriguing details of a formerly grand home that, although it has become somewhat shabby through the years, still maintains the ability to provide a apprenticeship-type training for three orphans from the local orphan asylum. All three of the boys have suffered various physical mishaps prior to coming to the home, and the story development hints at conflicts to come, along with the rather mysterious background of Mr. Sitwell, an employee of the family’s, who takes a paternal interest in the boys’ welfare. After reading my first impression, I was definitely left wanting more, and can hardly wait to read the rest of the book!