MY REVIEW:
Christmas at Whitefriars is a delightful historical novella that is perfect for a Christmas reading spree. Although its length is short, the pages a packed with interesting and sometimes quirky characters, vivid descriptions of Whitefriars and its grounds, and a sweet romance that overcomes fear and social anxiety.
I loved both Mary and Everett and the manner that they encouraged and helped each other deal with their personal inadequacies. Despite its age and deterioration, Whitefriars had a wonderful history that deserved retelling and remembrance. I felt like I was also getting the grand tour of it as Mary showed Everett around and explained its history that she loved so much.
Christmas at Whitefriars is just the book companion for a cozy winter evening by the fire. Please don’t miss it!
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Mary Beckwith lives in a magnificent English castle during the twilight years of the gilded age. With the help of an American millionaire, she has succeeded in renovating her beloved Whitefriars castle into a splendid estate just in time for Christmas. From across the ocean, millionaire Everett Wooten has spent a fortune propping up Whitefriars to add modern conveniences and rebuild crumbling old walls. Even though he’s never met Mary, they have enjoyed a lively business correspondence over the nine years they have been working toward a renovation. Now he has finally come to see Mary and the castle in person, but nothing is as he was led to believe. Mary and Everett try to find a way forward, but red-blooded American entrepreneurship doesn’t always mingle with blue-blooded English tradition. Can a Manhattan business tycoon and an English lady come to an accord, or will their joint venture in Whitefriars result in heartbreak for them both?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elizabeth Camden is best known for her historical novels set in gilded age America featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Award, and she lives in Florida with her husband who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books.
