The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

(Image courtesy of Christianbook.com)

 

I'll be repeating myself when I say that I waited quite a while to be able to read this book. Julie Klassen writes about one of my favorite time periods, and she does it with excellence. If you've never read a story by this author, you need to leave my blog immediately and search Amazon or your local bookstore for one of her many novels.

 

Do you remember the scene from Pride and Prejudice (2005 movie) where Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth dance together and share wonderfully witty remarks? Of course, you remember. Even if you aren't a fan of that version (I am, but I also love the BBC one), you have to admit you liked seeing them dance. Such tension in those moments!

 

Did you ever think about a dancing master? Honestly, I'd never given the profession any thought until I read Klassen's latest release. The story included complex characters, plot twist after plot twist, and a satisfying ending. And the spiritual thread was definitely prominent which I appreciate above all else.

The beginning did lag a bit, but I promise it is worth continuing. I love not being able to guess what happens in a story, and I couldn't in this one!

You. Need. To. Read. This. Book.

 

I mean, come on, just take one look at that gorgeous cover and tell me you aren't interested... 

 

From the Back Cover

 

Finding himself the man of the family, London dancing master Alec Valcourt moves his mother and sister to remote Devonshire, hoping to start over. But he is stunned to learn the village matriarch has prohibited all dancing, for reasons buried deep in her past.

Alec finds an unlikely ally in the matriarch's daughter. Though he's initially wary of Julia Midwinter's reckless flirtation, he comes to realize her bold exterior disguises a vulnerable soul--and hidden sorrows of her own.

Julia is quickly attracted to the handsome dancing master--a man her mother would never approve of--but she cannot imagine why Mr. Valcourt would leave London, or why he evades questions about his past. With Alec's help, can Julia uncover old secrets and restore life to her somber village. . .and to her mother's tattered heart?

Filled with mystery and romance, The Dancing Master brings to life the intriguing profession of those who taught essential social graces for ladies and gentlemen hoping to make a "good match" in Regency England.

 

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.