Book Review: Marry Me By Midnight by Felicia Grossman

About the Book:

Title: Marry Me By Midnight

Author: Felicia Grossman

Series: Once Upon the East End

Page Length: 400

Publication Date: Aug. 8, 2023

Publisher: Forever

Synopsis: Every love story begins with once upon a time .

London, 1832 : Isabelle Lira may be in distress, but she’s no damsel. Since her father’s death, his former partners have sought to oust her from their joint equity business. Her only choice is to marry—and fast —to a powerful ally outside the respected Berab family’s sphere of influence. Only finding the right spouse will require casting a wide net. So she’ll host a series of festivals, to which every eligible Jewish man is invited.

Once, Aaron Ellenberg longed to have a family of his own. But as the synagogue custodian, he is too poor for wishes and not foolish enough for dreams. Until the bold, beautiful Isabelle Lira presents him with an irresistible offer . . . if he ensures her favored suitors have no hidden loyalties to the Berabs, she will provide him with money for a new life.

Yet the transaction provides surprising temptation, as Aaron and Isabelle find caring and passion in the last person they each expected. Only a future for them is impossible—for heiresses don’t marry orphans, and love only conquers in children’s tales. But if Isabelle can find the courage to trust her heart, she’ll discover anything is possible, if only she says yes.

LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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My Review:

Marry Me Midnight is the first book in the Once Upon the East End historical romance series by Felicia Grossman.

Something I really like about the story is the representation. I haven’t read many historical romances in 1800s England with Jewish protagonists, and it’s clear a ton of research was put into creating a historically accurate piece. The story sheds light on a group that is quite unrepresented in historical romance. It was eye-opening to learn about the political and social discrimination and limitations Jewish people faced, which were even worse for women.

I also liked the reverse Cinderella elements of the story and the romance. Aaron is a delight. He’s so kind, and he has a gift with children and animals, but he doesn’t think he’s good enough. I just wanted to give him a big hug and a bunch of reassurance. Isabelle is great too, and their chemistry is fantastic. They have a bit of a forbidden romance since they come from very different social and economic circles, and there’s so much pining and angst and longing. And, whew, it gets a little steamy too!

Overall, I liked the story. It was a bit choppy at times, and it started off slow. But the second half of the story was faster-paced, the characters are well-developed, and the romance is swoon-worthy!

Special thanks to Forever Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.