Review: A Waltz at Midnight by Crista McHugh

Publisher: Carina Press

Available: February 27, 2012

What can I say about this Short Historical Romance other than I absolutely loved it. Seriously. The story, even in it's shortness, did not feel rushed or incomplete at all to me. Rather, it was a very satisfying and emotional read.   

                                                                                                                                      

Here's the blurb:     

                                                                                                

New York, 1866 

When her mistress receives an utterly unromantic letter from a potential suitor, servant Susanna Parkwell is asked to craft an appropriate response. Though hesitant to take part in the deception, Susanna agrees, never dreaming the scorned suitor will write back.

Theodore Blakely abhors being pressured by his family to marry, but he's intrigued by the witty refusal he receives from "Charlotte". After exchanging more letters, Ted believes he's found a soul mate in his thoughtful and understanding correspondent, and asks permission to formally court her.

Though racked with guilt over her lies, Susanna can't resist the opportunity to meet Ted in person. So she poses as Charlotte at a holiday ball, where she vows to tell him the truth. But when the clock strikes midnight, will Susanna have the courage to reveal her identity and risk losing the man she loves?

The witty and thoughtful letters exchanged between both Theodore and Susanna, to me, are a large reason as to why this story was so satisfying. Susanna is such a strong and independent heroine who does what she must to survive in post-civil war life, even if it means getting her once delicate and soft, Southern Belle hands, dirty to help pay for her brother's bar exam. There is nothing I like more about a heroine than when she is strong-willed and independent without being overbearing and Susanna is the perfect example of this.

Even in this short space of time, the author really ensures that the reader connects with her characters and Theodore, well despite his reluctance in writing his original letter, soon discovers that love can sometimes be found in an unlikely place. 

This heart-felt short story is definitely a must read and I have no problem recommending it to anyone who loves historical romances and is short on time, it only took me about an hour and a half to devour this story. I'm am so glad I was given the opportunity to review this galley thanks to Carina Press and NetGalley.com

My review:

Without a doubt 5/5 lattes

All My Best,

Kayla