Title: ‘Twas the Night After Christmas
Author: Sabrina Jeffries
First published October 30, 2012
416 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781476708225 (ISBN10: 1476708223)
Rating: 3.95
Overview
In her latest holiday romance, Sabrina Jeffries weaves a heartwarming tale of love, redemption and family secrets. When Lady Adeline Kendrick receives a letter from her estranged father, the Earl of Walcott, inviting her to spend Christmas with him at his country estate, she is hesitant.
But with the encouragement of her dear friend, Lady Camilla Stuart, Adeline decides to accept the invitation. Little does she know that her decision will change her life forever.
Upon arriving at the estate, Adeline discovers a family in turmoil, haunted by past mistakes and secrets. With the help of the charming and roguish Lord Nathaniel, Adeline sets out to mend the rift between father and daughter, and in the process, finds herself falling for the dashing earl.
As they navigate their way through the twists and turns of family drama, they discover that love and forgiveness can heal even the deepest wounds. ‘Tis the Night After Christmas is a delightful holiday read that will warm your heart and leave you with a renewed sense of hope and joy.
About the Author
Sabrina Jeffries is a bestselling author with over 50 novels and works of short fiction to her name. She has also written under the pseudonyms Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas.
When she’s not writing, she loves to travel with her husband and adult autistic son, or indulge in her passions, which include jigsaw puzzles, chocolate, and music. Her books have been printed over 9 million times in 22 different languages.
She never regrets leaving behind a career in academics to pursue her love of writing, and hopes that one day her work will have a profound impact on the world. Sabrina has always dreamed big.
Editoral Review
Sabrina Jeffries is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author famous for her historical romance novels. Her book “Twas the Night After Christmas” was first published on October 30, 2012.
In this novel, Jeffries takes readers on a journey of love, secrets, and consequences through a tale of mistaken identity. Set in Regency England, the book tells the story of Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, who comes back home after a seven-year absence to settle his family’s affairs.
However, upon his return, he realizes that his family’s mansion has fallen into disrepair, and his trusted steward has been keeping his own secrets. Pierce also comes face-to-face with the intriguingly beautiful widow, Caroline, who persuades him to pose as her husband to protect her from society’s gossip.
The plot of “Twas the Night After Christmas” is filled with mystery, humor, and romance. Jeffries’ writing is masterful in the way that she creates tension between the protagonists and keeps readers guessing about the identity of the true villain until the very end.
She ingeniously intertwines historical facts and societal norms of the time, which adds a layer of realism to the story, making readers feel as though they are living in Regency England alongside the characters. Jeffries’ character development in this novel is exceptional.
Both Pierce and Caroline are fully fleshed-out characters with their own distinct personalities, quirks, and issues. The author crafts their love story with subtlety and care, allowing readers to grow invested in them and their journey towards happiness.
Moreover, “Twas the Night After Christmas” carries cultural significance, which is still relevant today. Jeffries highlights the societal pressure placed on women to be married and the weight of rumors and gossip, which can destroy a person’s reputation.
She also explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and second chances, which are timeless and universal. While the book is a delightful read overall, it could have benefited from better pacing.
The beginning may seem slow to some, and the ending somewhat rushed. Additionally, the “twist” at the end feels predictable, which may leave some readers underwhelmed.
Overall, if you are a fan of historical romance novels, “Twas the Night After Christmas” is definitely worth reading. Sabrina Jeffries’ writing will transport you to a different time and place, and her characters are sure to capture your heart.
This book is suitable for anyone who enjoys a good love story mixed with a bit of mystery and humor. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
