The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen is another well researched Regency novel. I couldn't wait to read her latest book, but I was surprised to find that the main character was actually Alec Valcourt, the dancing master, and not the girl who falls in love with him. I have to say, I really liked reading from the guy's perspective! It was so well-written, and I think this has become my favorite by the author. I didn't really like Julia Midwinter much, but I couldn't help but feel for her and sympathize with her because of Klassen's skill at character development. Even Lady Amelia grew on me the more I read of and about her, and it was refreshing to read Mr. Desmond's thoughts on her. It reminded me how it is in real life - we don't know what everybody else is struggling with so we shouldn't be quick to assume we know and understand why they do the things they do.
Alec Valcourt, a third generation dancing master, has found himself in a predictment. He has arrived in a town that doesn't allow dancing! Finding himself without a means to support his mother and sister, he accepts a job as clerk to Lady Amelia, the very lady who stopped all the dancing in Beaworthy. Lady Amelia has one request for Mr. Valcourt... Don't talk to her daughter, Julia.
Alec and Julia both wonder what made Lady Amelia stop all the dancing twenty years ago. The mystery slowly unravels when Alec meets John Desmond and becomes closer to Julia.
There are a lot of interesting back stories in this book - Alec, Julia, Lady Amelia, John Desmond. It made the book very interesting, and my husband can attest to the fact that I couldn't put this story down. haha If you love Regency novels or Jane Austen, you will love this book. It wasn't just a simple story. It had so much dimension and was filled with historical tidbits that I had never heard of before. I found the rough game outlined in the story and the history of the Bryanites fascinating.
I was given this book free from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.
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