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Invitation to the Dance
After trading his tranquil Staten Island existence for a flat in the city and an editorial position at the New York Herald, William Nesmith anticipates as easy and uneventful a transition from bachelorhood to marriage—as soon as he's prepared to ask the vivacious Violet Chapin for her hand. Though Violet longs to climb the social ladder Will scorns, she seems willing to wait for him—and wait she must, for Will intends to make his way without the assistance of Violet's well-to-do connections.
Whether that's a vow he can keep comes into question when he runs afoul of Charlie Kohlbeck, a capricious reporter with a keen eye for a story and the flexible ethics to dig up any secret, whether hidden in Manhattan's darkest corners or the grand marble halls of its social elite. When Will is ordered to work with him so they'll come to better appreciate each other's talents, Charlie takes him along on the hunt for an interview with the elusive Lord Belcourt. It's a meeting every reporter in town is after, but Charlie gains an audience by introducing Will as one of the wealthy California Nesmiths—a lie that sets Will on a path up the social ladder at a speed no respectable gentleman could stomach.
Offered his own society column if he prolongs the charade, Will wants nothing more than to escape the bevy of eager debutantes on his trail and make peace with a very vexed Violet. But when he helps a shy heiress menaced by swindlers, he's caught in a tangled web turned dangerous and must put his faith in Charlie Kohlbeck—who may possibly prove the one road to ruin Will is defenseless to resist.
Whether that's a vow he can keep comes into question when he runs afoul of Charlie Kohlbeck, a capricious reporter with a keen eye for a story and the flexible ethics to dig up any secret, whether hidden in Manhattan's darkest corners or the grand marble halls of its social elite. When Will is ordered to work with him so they'll come to better appreciate each other's talents, Charlie takes him along on the hunt for an interview with the elusive Lord Belcourt. It's a meeting every reporter in town is after, but Charlie gains an audience by introducing Will as one of the wealthy California Nesmiths—a lie that sets Will on a path up the social ladder at a speed no respectable gentleman could stomach.
Offered his own society column if he prolongs the charade, Will wants nothing more than to escape the bevy of eager debutantes on his trail and make peace with a very vexed Violet. But when he helps a shy heiress menaced by swindlers, he's caught in a tangled web turned dangerous and must put his faith in Charlie Kohlbeck—who may possibly prove the one road to ruin Will is defenseless to resist.
321 pages, ebook
First published November 29, 2018
36 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
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February 25, 2019
What is everyone else seeing in this book that I'm not?
I'm all alone on dissatisfaction island, and it sucks.
Tamara Allen wrote one of my most beloved (and one of my first) M/M romances, Downtime, and I eagerly awaited reading Invitation to the Dance. I was convinced that I would love it, and I was excited for slow-burn goodness.
But this slow-burn felt like a never burn.
I was exasperated by the time ANYTHING happened between the two MCs (not until around 65% in), and even then, I wasn't feeling it. There wasn't that sense of tension, of inevitability, that I usually feel in slow-burns. It was just like two work colleagues who had a mildly entertaining love/hate relationship and who both were a little bit attracted to one another (though that was barely, and I mean barely, even hinted at). I just didn't get that feeling of romance, and when the romance came in the end, it felt rushed and half-hearted.
I guess the story itself is entertaining if you like to read about society-workings in early 1900s New York, but I didn't find it to be nearly engaging enough to hold my attention.
Maybe my tastes have changed, or maybe I wasn't in the right mind-set to read this one, but I had a hard time finishing Invitation to the Dance. Pretty sad about that, actually.
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I'm all alone on dissatisfaction island, and it sucks.
Tamara Allen wrote one of my most beloved (and one of my first) M/M romances, Downtime, and I eagerly awaited reading Invitation to the Dance. I was convinced that I would love it, and I was excited for slow-burn goodness.
But this slow-burn felt like a never burn.
I was exasperated by the time ANYTHING happened between the two MCs (not until around 65% in), and even then, I wasn't feeling it. There wasn't that sense of tension, of inevitability, that I usually feel in slow-burns. It was just like two work colleagues who had a mildly entertaining love/hate relationship and who both were a little bit attracted to one another (though that was barely, and I mean barely, even hinted at). I just didn't get that feeling of romance, and when the romance came in the end, it felt rushed and half-hearted.
I guess the story itself is entertaining if you like to read about society-workings in early 1900s New York, but I didn't find it to be nearly engaging enough to hold my attention.
Maybe my tastes have changed, or maybe I wasn't in the right mind-set to read this one, but I had a hard time finishing Invitation to the Dance. Pretty sad about that, actually.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
Want to read
March 22, 20203/21/20 Currently FREE
I adore Tamara Allen's stories! I urge all my GR pals who enjoy historical romance to check these out. Amazingly, Ms. Allen is currently offering most of her stories for FREE, so it is a great time to add these stories to your book treasure hoard.
Go, go, go and download these delightful treats!
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
I adore Tamara Allen's stories! I urge all my GR pals who enjoy historical romance to check these out. Amazingly, Ms. Allen is currently offering most of her stories for FREE, so it is a great time to add these stories to your book treasure hoard.
Go, go, go and download these delightful treats!
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
December 15, 2018
Charlie is a newspaper reporter with a cheerful and resilient spirit, a taste for the gentlemen that he perforce keeps hidden, and a confidence in his writing that may or may not be justified. In Charlie's opinion, an editor's sole job seems to be to whittle down his eloquent prose to dry little columns half the length. So when he meets a new applicant for an editorial post at the paper in his boss's office, he has no scruples against trying to send the man on his way.
William was a well-respected editor at his small local paper, but he wants to marry his girlfriend Violet, and she comes from money. So, since his pride won't let him sponge off her father, he needs to advance. A post with a big-city paper is a start. Polishing the prose of overly-wordy writers like Charlie is his bread-and-butter, and he knows he's good at it. He doesn't require reporters to like him.
But the happenstance of William's last name - Nesmith - matching that of a wealthy west-coast family, results in him being invited into the inner circles of local wealth and power. Charlie (and his boss) convince him to take advantage of the mistake, as the two of them try to get a story on an elusive visiting British nobleman. Between the adrenaline and shame of the deception, his curiosity about Lord Belcourt, the proximity of Charlie sticking to his side in search of the story, and Violet's hot-and-cold reactions to his new job situation, William is thrown out of the comfortable path he'd envisioned for himself. He never imagined writing society columns, and he never quite imagined friendship with the kind of scamp Charlie is. In this new life, anything might be possible.
Charlie hates editors. But he's coming to appreciate William, in more than one way although he won't mention that to the man with the fiancee. Writing columns that make the rich folk buzz is good, friendship is great, the hunt for Lord Belcourt is a lark. And if he sometimes wishes for a bit more substance to his life, maybe the lord has dark secrets that will provide some. Charlie's an optimist.
This book started more slowly than some by this favorite author. It took me time to warm to Charlie, and to get a feel for William, and the situation they were in. But about the halfway mark, the story settled in with a click and reminded me why I read anything Tamara Allen writes. I loved both these men, and enjoyed the plot and the resolution of their story. If you haven't tried this author, you could start anywhere but "Whistling in the Dark" remains my favorite, and "If It Ain't Love" is a gorgeous short freebie. If, like me, you wait for new stories from her with ill-hidden impatience, then I expect you will enjoy this new one.
William was a well-respected editor at his small local paper, but he wants to marry his girlfriend Violet, and she comes from money. So, since his pride won't let him sponge off her father, he needs to advance. A post with a big-city paper is a start. Polishing the prose of overly-wordy writers like Charlie is his bread-and-butter, and he knows he's good at it. He doesn't require reporters to like him.
But the happenstance of William's last name - Nesmith - matching that of a wealthy west-coast family, results in him being invited into the inner circles of local wealth and power. Charlie (and his boss) convince him to take advantage of the mistake, as the two of them try to get a story on an elusive visiting British nobleman. Between the adrenaline and shame of the deception, his curiosity about Lord Belcourt, the proximity of Charlie sticking to his side in search of the story, and Violet's hot-and-cold reactions to his new job situation, William is thrown out of the comfortable path he'd envisioned for himself. He never imagined writing society columns, and he never quite imagined friendship with the kind of scamp Charlie is. In this new life, anything might be possible.
Charlie hates editors. But he's coming to appreciate William, in more than one way although he won't mention that to the man with the fiancee. Writing columns that make the rich folk buzz is good, friendship is great, the hunt for Lord Belcourt is a lark. And if he sometimes wishes for a bit more substance to his life, maybe the lord has dark secrets that will provide some. Charlie's an optimist.
This book started more slowly than some by this favorite author. It took me time to warm to Charlie, and to get a feel for William, and the situation they were in. But about the halfway mark, the story settled in with a click and reminded me why I read anything Tamara Allen writes. I loved both these men, and enjoyed the plot and the resolution of their story. If you haven't tried this author, you could start anywhere but "Whistling in the Dark" remains my favorite, and "If It Ain't Love" is a gorgeous short freebie. If, like me, you wait for new stories from her with ill-hidden impatience, then I expect you will enjoy this new one.
January 27, 2019
Tamara Allen is not (unfortunately!) a very prolific writer. Her novels are few and far between but they never fail to grab my attention and provide me with some hours of pure enjoyment.
Her latest book, Invitation to the Dance is no exception.
Set in New York towards the end of the 1800s, the story follows Charlie Kohlbeck, an up-and-coming journalist, and William Nesmith, a serious and committed editor, as they weave their way around the glittery world on NY's upper classes, where they find themselves thanks to a fortunate coincidence.
I won't spoil the story by giving out too many details, because the events in the book are many and important and it'd be a shame to reveal anything here.
What I really found delightful in the novel were the setting and the characters.
Allen takes the reader from a noisy newspaper office to the hushed halls of aristocratic mansions, passing through Coney Island and once-grand houses with incredible ease and charm. As in her other books set in New York City - Whistling in the Dark and If It Ain't Love for instance - the place comes alive with vividness and detailed historical precision.
Charlie and Will are also charming and very well rounded characters and while reading I've found myself thinking of a number of classical Hollywood films that one way or another I thought could be connected to Allen's latest work.
Charlie, all sass and quick wit, reminded me of the journalist played by Clark Gable in Frank Capra's It Happened One Night or perhaps Cary Grant's sly character in Howard Hawk's hilarious His Girl Friday. He may try to present himself as unscrupulous and self-centred, but his good nature and generosity shine through his every action and line of dialogue.
Will is the perfect foil to Charlie's outgoing personality. Quiet and committed to his job - their first encounter at the New York Herald is a truly wonderful episode - he attempts to avoid being dragged into Charlie's absurd schemes but can hardly resist the temptation to embrace a life less controlled and secure than the one he's used to. If I had to put a face to his character, considering his clumsy charm and stubborn personality, I'd say that he reminded me closely of certain characters played by James Stewart, from the haughty sales assistant in Ernest Lubitsch's The Shop Around the Corner to the journalist he plays in George Cukor's The Philadelphia Story.
This was a very nice read, gentle and full of charm. A great way to ease me back from the Christmas break into the bleak and long January.
Recommended!
Her latest book, Invitation to the Dance is no exception.
Set in New York towards the end of the 1800s, the story follows Charlie Kohlbeck, an up-and-coming journalist, and William Nesmith, a serious and committed editor, as they weave their way around the glittery world on NY's upper classes, where they find themselves thanks to a fortunate coincidence.
I won't spoil the story by giving out too many details, because the events in the book are many and important and it'd be a shame to reveal anything here.
What I really found delightful in the novel were the setting and the characters.
Allen takes the reader from a noisy newspaper office to the hushed halls of aristocratic mansions, passing through Coney Island and once-grand houses with incredible ease and charm. As in her other books set in New York City - Whistling in the Dark and If It Ain't Love for instance - the place comes alive with vividness and detailed historical precision.
Charlie and Will are also charming and very well rounded characters and while reading I've found myself thinking of a number of classical Hollywood films that one way or another I thought could be connected to Allen's latest work.
Charlie, all sass and quick wit, reminded me of the journalist played by Clark Gable in Frank Capra's It Happened One Night or perhaps Cary Grant's sly character in Howard Hawk's hilarious His Girl Friday. He may try to present himself as unscrupulous and self-centred, but his good nature and generosity shine through his every action and line of dialogue.
Will is the perfect foil to Charlie's outgoing personality. Quiet and committed to his job - their first encounter at the New York Herald is a truly wonderful episode - he attempts to avoid being dragged into Charlie's absurd schemes but can hardly resist the temptation to embrace a life less controlled and secure than the one he's used to. If I had to put a face to his character, considering his clumsy charm and stubborn personality, I'd say that he reminded me closely of certain characters played by James Stewart, from the haughty sales assistant in Ernest Lubitsch's The Shop Around the Corner to the journalist he plays in George Cukor's The Philadelphia Story.
This was a very nice read, gentle and full of charm. A great way to ease me back from the Christmas break into the bleak and long January.
Recommended!
February 11, 2024
Me: Wait, he couldn’t…
Also me: But what about…
Me again: I don’t think that would’ve…
And then I decided, screw it — the suspension of disbelief was worth it to enjoy the hell out of this one. 😂 Just felt too good to do anything else. Somehow, this was my first from Tamara Allen, but it will soon be followed by others. Irresistible story!
Also me: But what about…
Me again: I don’t think that would’ve…
And then I decided, screw it — the suspension of disbelief was worth it to enjoy the hell out of this one. 😂 Just felt too good to do anything else. Somehow, this was my first from Tamara Allen, but it will soon be followed by others. Irresistible story!
December 29, 2018
Lovely. No one does slow-burn American historical queer romance better than Tamara Allen. She is the queen of this sub-sub-sub-genre. This book, like all her books, is beautifully written, has a gorgeous period feel, has endearing and interesting characters, and has a really delightful romance. This author doesn't publish often, but each one of her books is an absolute gem.
December 2, 2018
After trading his tranquil Staten Island existence for a flat in the city and an editorial position at the New York Herald, William Nesmith anticipates as easy and uneventful a transition from bachelorhood to marriage—as soon as he's prepared to ask the vivacious Violet Chapin for her hand. Though Violet longs to climb the social ladder Will scorns, she seems willing to wait for him—and wait she must, for Will intends to make his way without the assistance of Violet's well-to-do connections.
Whether that's a vow he can keep comes into question when he runs afoul of Charlie Kohlbeck, a capricious reporter with a keen eye for a story and the flexible ethics to dig up any secret, whether hidden in Manhattan's darkest corners or the grand marble halls of its social elite. When Will is ordered to work with him so they'll come to better appreciate each other's talents, Charlie takes him along on the hunt for an interview with the elusive Lord Belcourt. It's a meeting every reporter in town is after, but Charlie gains an audience by introducing Will as one of the wealthy California Nesmiths—a lie that sets Will on a path up the social ladder at a speed no respectable gentleman could stomach.
Offered his own society column if he prolongs the charade, Will wants nothing more than to escape the bevy of eager debutantes on his trail and make peace with a very vexed Violet. But when he helps a shy heiress menaced by swindlers, he's caught in a tangled web turned dangerous and must put his faith in Charlie Kohlbeck—who may possibly prove the one road to ruin Will is defenseless to resist.
DISCLOSURE. Over the years this author had become a dear email friend. I fell in love with her books first, but of course take a possible bias into consideration and ignore this review if you must. I just cannot be bothered to deny myself a pleasure of talking about her stories :).
I did buy this book.
Review.
"There were better ways to waste a Wednesday evening in the middle of a mild November, and however agreeable the view from the Herald’s second floor down to busy Broadway, Charlie had seen it too many times in the past two years to find it as entertaining, even with holiday shoppers staggering against the bracing wind like hapless blackbirds."
This is how the book starts and when Will comes to apply for editorial position, he and Charlie don't exactly hit it off :). They don't hit it off, because Charlie while not saying explicitly that he is Will's potential boss, does not disabuse him of mistaken assumption. More over, he offers Will an editorial test on the spot and gives Will his own article to edit. Let's just say that Will is a very good and very strict editor :). The only trope that ever attracted me in romance had always been "from friends to enemies", but I always wanted to see real reasons why the guys would not like each other in the beginning of the book, and I have not seen it that often lately. It made perfect sense to me that the reporter who likes to write long winded sentences would not care for the editor who likes to um, cut those sentences down a lot :).
But work together they must, moreover when their boss sees that their bickering continues, he assigns them to work on the story together, specifically to chase after the interview with Lord Belcourt and as blurb tells you in order to get into Manhattan High Society Charlie had a bright idea to use the fact that Will's last name is the same last name as another famous family has. And then supposedly rich and famous will talk to them and they can print all kinds of stories without letting people know that they are reporters who are chasing after news.
Of course when one starts a rucus, one usually can never quite anticipate where it will take them.
Will has a woman he wants to marry who had been his friend for ten years , and whose patience is growing thin and when he is pretending to be somebody who is not, other women start paying attention. While him and Charlie started the charade only wanting to find out about what is happening in Lord Belcourt's personal life, they stumble upon several dangerous developments and stories that public truly needed to know about.
I gobbled this book in three or four hours. I will go back eventually, but it was just such lovely fun that I could not stop. I usually end up loving the guys Tamara Allen writes about, but some of them took a bit longer to fall in love with. These two come alive from the first pages and they are full of such joy even when Will was still a little bit closed off.
Of course they fall in love and it made sense to me that during the course of several months they got to know each other better and saw their real selves so to speak.
"And one of those dangers, he realized, was sitting beside him. Somewhere along the line, he and Charlie had become comfortable with each other. He’d come to trust Charlie out of sheer necessity and… They’d somehow become friends. The revelation caught Will off guard, but he couldn’t think there was anything to make of the fond look Charlie had given him, nor the shoulder pressed companionably against his. It was the most innocent kind of leaning, really. He wouldn’t imagine otherwise, not when he felt too susceptible to something more."
And their bickering became humorous to me pretty fast:
“It’s hardly a crime to be aggressive and persistent.” The corners of Will’s lips twitched. “Really, I’d think you’d admire a fellow who has the same sort of push and perseverance you do.” “Not as much as I admire your talent for backhanded compliments.” Charlie settled further into the pillows, making a half-hearted effort to keep his eyes open. “You’d better be kind to a fellow on the verge of pneumonia. I’m of a mind to dress right now and take you to Mrs. Glasspoole’s party just to teach you a lesson.”"
I loved most secondary characters too. I never expect to see evil caricature women in Tamara Allen's books, but since according to the blurb Violet was Will's love interest initially I was a little bit worried as to how she will be dealt with. I should not have worried, I thought it was very well done. I also liked Rose and Charlotte, and Rose's mother.
Of course I pick up romance book to read about the romance first and foremost, but I also always appreciated that Tamara Allen lets me time travel to the New York in the second half of the 19 century. The work of the newspaper people at that time, the restaurants, the concerts, the overall scene - loved it. So very much.
Whether that's a vow he can keep comes into question when he runs afoul of Charlie Kohlbeck, a capricious reporter with a keen eye for a story and the flexible ethics to dig up any secret, whether hidden in Manhattan's darkest corners or the grand marble halls of its social elite. When Will is ordered to work with him so they'll come to better appreciate each other's talents, Charlie takes him along on the hunt for an interview with the elusive Lord Belcourt. It's a meeting every reporter in town is after, but Charlie gains an audience by introducing Will as one of the wealthy California Nesmiths—a lie that sets Will on a path up the social ladder at a speed no respectable gentleman could stomach.
Offered his own society column if he prolongs the charade, Will wants nothing more than to escape the bevy of eager debutantes on his trail and make peace with a very vexed Violet. But when he helps a shy heiress menaced by swindlers, he's caught in a tangled web turned dangerous and must put his faith in Charlie Kohlbeck—who may possibly prove the one road to ruin Will is defenseless to resist.
DISCLOSURE. Over the years this author had become a dear email friend. I fell in love with her books first, but of course take a possible bias into consideration and ignore this review if you must. I just cannot be bothered to deny myself a pleasure of talking about her stories :).
I did buy this book.
Review.
"There were better ways to waste a Wednesday evening in the middle of a mild November, and however agreeable the view from the Herald’s second floor down to busy Broadway, Charlie had seen it too many times in the past two years to find it as entertaining, even with holiday shoppers staggering against the bracing wind like hapless blackbirds."
This is how the book starts and when Will comes to apply for editorial position, he and Charlie don't exactly hit it off :). They don't hit it off, because Charlie while not saying explicitly that he is Will's potential boss, does not disabuse him of mistaken assumption. More over, he offers Will an editorial test on the spot and gives Will his own article to edit. Let's just say that Will is a very good and very strict editor :). The only trope that ever attracted me in romance had always been "from friends to enemies", but I always wanted to see real reasons why the guys would not like each other in the beginning of the book, and I have not seen it that often lately. It made perfect sense to me that the reporter who likes to write long winded sentences would not care for the editor who likes to um, cut those sentences down a lot :).
But work together they must, moreover when their boss sees that their bickering continues, he assigns them to work on the story together, specifically to chase after the interview with Lord Belcourt and as blurb tells you in order to get into Manhattan High Society Charlie had a bright idea to use the fact that Will's last name is the same last name as another famous family has. And then supposedly rich and famous will talk to them and they can print all kinds of stories without letting people know that they are reporters who are chasing after news.
Of course when one starts a rucus, one usually can never quite anticipate where it will take them.
Will has a woman he wants to marry who had been his friend for ten years , and whose patience is growing thin and when he is pretending to be somebody who is not, other women start paying attention. While him and Charlie started the charade only wanting to find out about what is happening in Lord Belcourt's personal life, they stumble upon several dangerous developments and stories that public truly needed to know about.
I gobbled this book in three or four hours. I will go back eventually, but it was just such lovely fun that I could not stop. I usually end up loving the guys Tamara Allen writes about, but some of them took a bit longer to fall in love with. These two come alive from the first pages and they are full of such joy even when Will was still a little bit closed off.
Of course they fall in love and it made sense to me that during the course of several months they got to know each other better and saw their real selves so to speak.
"And one of those dangers, he realized, was sitting beside him. Somewhere along the line, he and Charlie had become comfortable with each other. He’d come to trust Charlie out of sheer necessity and… They’d somehow become friends. The revelation caught Will off guard, but he couldn’t think there was anything to make of the fond look Charlie had given him, nor the shoulder pressed companionably against his. It was the most innocent kind of leaning, really. He wouldn’t imagine otherwise, not when he felt too susceptible to something more."
And their bickering became humorous to me pretty fast:
“It’s hardly a crime to be aggressive and persistent.” The corners of Will’s lips twitched. “Really, I’d think you’d admire a fellow who has the same sort of push and perseverance you do.” “Not as much as I admire your talent for backhanded compliments.” Charlie settled further into the pillows, making a half-hearted effort to keep his eyes open. “You’d better be kind to a fellow on the verge of pneumonia. I’m of a mind to dress right now and take you to Mrs. Glasspoole’s party just to teach you a lesson.”"
I loved most secondary characters too. I never expect to see evil caricature women in Tamara Allen's books, but since according to the blurb Violet was Will's love interest initially I was a little bit worried as to how she will be dealt with. I should not have worried, I thought it was very well done. I also liked Rose and Charlotte, and Rose's mother.
Of course I pick up romance book to read about the romance first and foremost, but I also always appreciated that Tamara Allen lets me time travel to the New York in the second half of the 19 century. The work of the newspaper people at that time, the restaurants, the concerts, the overall scene - loved it. So very much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2018
Tamara Allen releases new books far too infrequently so each one is cause to rejoice. Invitation to the Dance doesn't disappoint. In turn of the century New York City, a cautious new copy editor and a brash journalist go from enemies to friends to lovers when they are forced to work together to get the Society story of the year, which turns out to be more than they anticipated. This is a slow-burn romance (neither character even admits to being homosexual until more than a third of the book is done, and the first kiss takes place well after the halfway mark) but it feels completely appropriate to the setting. Instead of longing looks we get lots of witty banter, interesting secondary characters (including a sweet M/F romance), and period detail that makes you feel like you are trying to hail a cab on Broadway right before Christmas in a cold wind.
While Allen doesn't shy away from the realities of being a gay couple when it was still a crime, she's also rather matter of fact about the ways that Charlie and Will find to be alone together, so it doesn't feel like their sexuality is the barrier keeping them apart. Once they admit their feelings, the conflict revolves around the actions they have taken to insinuate themselves into High Society and the friends and enemies they have made along the way.
I can't understand why Tamara Allen isn't a bigger name in MM romance, but I look forward to each release with great anticipation. I'm already planning a re-read in the very near future because I already miss Charlie and Will and want to spend more time with them. To resort to a cliche - don't turn down this Invitation (sorry, couldn't help myself)!
While Allen doesn't shy away from the realities of being a gay couple when it was still a crime, she's also rather matter of fact about the ways that Charlie and Will find to be alone together, so it doesn't feel like their sexuality is the barrier keeping them apart. Once they admit their feelings, the conflict revolves around the actions they have taken to insinuate themselves into High Society and the friends and enemies they have made along the way.
I can't understand why Tamara Allen isn't a bigger name in MM romance, but I look forward to each release with great anticipation. I'm already planning a re-read in the very near future because I already miss Charlie and Will and want to spend more time with them. To resort to a cliche - don't turn down this Invitation (sorry, couldn't help myself)!
January 15, 2021
5 stars
Perfect! Loved this well-written historical with a slow-burning enemies to friends to lovers romance. The newsroom/high society backdrop felt fresh and unique. There was great banter between the really likeable MCs. Also found the secondary characters to be engaging in their own right. Recommended!
Perfect! Loved this well-written historical with a slow-burning enemies to friends to lovers romance. The newsroom/high society backdrop felt fresh and unique. There was great banter between the really likeable MCs. Also found the secondary characters to be engaging in their own right. Recommended!
January 7, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
There aren’t many authors I consider an auto buy, but one of them Tamara Allen. She publishes few and far between to be sure, but usually her books are worth the wait. And Invitation to the Dance is no different. The slow-building relationship, well-established characters, and solid plotting are all part of Allen’s signature style. Now Invitation to the Dance felt a bit slower to me than most of Allen’s other novels, but I appreciated the fact the story evolved naturally and didn’t rush through the parts of everyday life. Charlie and Will have a naturally charming banter and the two interact with an easy sweetness that I adored. They’re characters that just fit together perfectly and they really steal the show as a result.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
There aren’t many authors I consider an auto buy, but one of them Tamara Allen. She publishes few and far between to be sure, but usually her books are worth the wait. And Invitation to the Dance is no different. The slow-building relationship, well-established characters, and solid plotting are all part of Allen’s signature style. Now Invitation to the Dance felt a bit slower to me than most of Allen’s other novels, but I appreciated the fact the story evolved naturally and didn’t rush through the parts of everyday life. Charlie and Will have a naturally charming banter and the two interact with an easy sweetness that I adored. They’re characters that just fit together perfectly and they really steal the show as a result.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
April 26, 2019
3.5 stars
There is a lot to love in this book, from the writing to the setting, without forgetting (almost) all the wonderful characters. The plot started interesting and the romance was a lovely slow burn. Except.
Except that at a certain point, the book seemed to switch gears all at once. Once , the romance took an abrupt turn and I was left wondering why all of a sudden I’d ascribe it to me being distracted, but the plot also began to be a bit all over the place around the same time.
All in all, it was a lovely book, so I’m still rounding up, but with a bit of regret because it had the potential to be so much better.
There is a lot to love in this book, from the writing to the setting, without forgetting (almost) all the wonderful characters. The plot started interesting and the romance was a lovely slow burn. Except.
Except that at a certain point, the book seemed to switch gears all at once. Once , the romance took an abrupt turn and I was left wondering why all of a sudden I’d ascribe it to me being distracted, but the plot also began to be a bit all over the place around the same time.
All in all, it was a lovely book, so I’m still rounding up, but with a bit of regret because it had the potential to be so much better.
December 11, 2018
This is another great novel from Ms. Allen. She's got a special knack for capturing NYC of the late 1800s and early 1900s. In this case we've got earnest newspaper reporter Charlie Kohlbeck and a recent hire editor Will Nesmith. They start off as adversaries but become grudging allies after their boss assigns them to work together on a society piece trying to track down the elusive Lord Belcourt. Charlie's inventive work ethics gets them into a bit of subterfuge against Will's better sense, but he proves just as curious as Charlie and their truce soon grows into friendship and more.
There's a bit of a mystery here Rose and Archie, and Caroline and Hilda were great supporting characters and even Violet had her moments. Watching Charlie and Will becoming friends and more in Ms. Allen's typical quiet romance was a treat. They're well-suited to each other and even their bickering is endearing. I could shake my head at their less-than-honest antics, but they're both so lovable and sincere in their own ways that I couldn't bring myself to do it. :D
There's a bit of a mystery here Rose and Archie, and Caroline and Hilda were great supporting characters and even Violet had her moments. Watching Charlie and Will becoming friends and more in Ms. Allen's typical quiet romance was a treat. They're well-suited to each other and even their bickering is endearing. I could shake my head at their less-than-honest antics, but they're both so lovable and sincere in their own ways that I couldn't bring myself to do it. :D
January 21, 2019
Invitation to the Dance
By Tamara Allen
Published by the author, 2018
Five stars
I’ve been missing Tamara Allen’s writing for years and was very happy to snap up this new book when it came to my attention. As I hoped and expected, Allen takes her readers into a carefully-researched historical past, bringing Gilded Age New York to life while looking at turn-of-the-century Manhattan from a distinctive perspective that allows for neither blind adulation nor unrelieved cynicism.
How fitting that we get our story through the eyes of two young journalists – William Nesmith, a prim editor from Staten Island, hoping to make his way at a big city paper; and Charlie Kohlbeck, a striving reporter, whose rise from uneducated poverty has been entirely his own doing. Thrown together due to a public tiff at work and forced to collaborate on an important story, Will and Charlie learn the value of each other’s intelligence and loyalty when dealing with the rich and privileged in New York’s social elite.
What especially charmed me about this story is that the wealthy targets of Will and Charlie’s journalistic speculation turn out not to be quite as stereotypically shallow and status-hungry as they first seem. In the wake of Consuelo Vanderbilt’s highly publicized marriage to the Duke of Marlborough (placing the date of this story in 1895), the imagined marketing of American heiresses to impoverished European nobleman is on everyone’s mind. The more nuanced truth behind all the gossip puts Will and Charlie into the tricky position of writing about people who they begin to see not just as human, but as friends.
At the same time, Charlie’s seemingly care-free bachelor life begins to appear to Will as something lonelier, even as he must deal with the reality of having both a budding career and a socially uptight fiancée who places respectability above personal fulfillment. Allen works the budding affection between Will and Charlie carefully into the narrative, offering up a romantic plotline that, while improbable in its time and place, is also both plausible and affecting for the modern reader.
Oh, there are bad guys, and there are stupid rich people; but there are also many subtle shades of good and not-so-good throughout the story that cross the fabricated lines of American social structure to reveal the real meaning of moral character in the face of a complicated and ever-changing world.
By Tamara Allen
Published by the author, 2018
Five stars
I’ve been missing Tamara Allen’s writing for years and was very happy to snap up this new book when it came to my attention. As I hoped and expected, Allen takes her readers into a carefully-researched historical past, bringing Gilded Age New York to life while looking at turn-of-the-century Manhattan from a distinctive perspective that allows for neither blind adulation nor unrelieved cynicism.
How fitting that we get our story through the eyes of two young journalists – William Nesmith, a prim editor from Staten Island, hoping to make his way at a big city paper; and Charlie Kohlbeck, a striving reporter, whose rise from uneducated poverty has been entirely his own doing. Thrown together due to a public tiff at work and forced to collaborate on an important story, Will and Charlie learn the value of each other’s intelligence and loyalty when dealing with the rich and privileged in New York’s social elite.
What especially charmed me about this story is that the wealthy targets of Will and Charlie’s journalistic speculation turn out not to be quite as stereotypically shallow and status-hungry as they first seem. In the wake of Consuelo Vanderbilt’s highly publicized marriage to the Duke of Marlborough (placing the date of this story in 1895), the imagined marketing of American heiresses to impoverished European nobleman is on everyone’s mind. The more nuanced truth behind all the gossip puts Will and Charlie into the tricky position of writing about people who they begin to see not just as human, but as friends.
At the same time, Charlie’s seemingly care-free bachelor life begins to appear to Will as something lonelier, even as he must deal with the reality of having both a budding career and a socially uptight fiancée who places respectability above personal fulfillment. Allen works the budding affection between Will and Charlie carefully into the narrative, offering up a romantic plotline that, while improbable in its time and place, is also both plausible and affecting for the modern reader.
Oh, there are bad guys, and there are stupid rich people; but there are also many subtle shades of good and not-so-good throughout the story that cross the fabricated lines of American social structure to reveal the real meaning of moral character in the face of a complicated and ever-changing world.
April 5, 2019
"Charlie Kohlbeck, a capricious reporter with a keen eye for a story and the flexible ethics to dig up any secret"
I'm sold already. I need it.That's it.
I'm sold already. I need it.That's it.
February 8, 2019
4.5 stars
I loved everything about this gorgeous, low-key, lovely book. The slow-burn romance between Will and Charlie was completely endearing, mostly because of their delicious light banter, but also because of the way their relationship develops. I’m a sucker for a workplace romance, and this one is given the time and space to develop organically. Nothing feels forced or rushed. When they finally do confess their feelings to each other, it’s so bloody satisfying.
This is the perfect low angst hisrom you’ve been waiting for.
I loved everything about this gorgeous, low-key, lovely book. The slow-burn romance between Will and Charlie was completely endearing, mostly because of their delicious light banter, but also because of the way their relationship develops. I’m a sucker for a workplace romance, and this one is given the time and space to develop organically. Nothing feels forced or rushed. When they finally do confess their feelings to each other, it’s so bloody satisfying.
This is the perfect low angst hisrom you’ve been waiting for.
September 22, 2020
3.5* rounded up. No one does slow-burn American late 19th/early 20th century historical m/m like Tamara Allen. Possibly no one else does them, period, but ah, what a treat to have my very specific histrom itches scratched. After The Road to Silver Plume I thought whatever novel came next might continue to push darker, but this pulls back to what is clearly the author's comfort zone (some unspecified late-Vic/early 1900s setting in NYC, two lower-middle class characters working in a trade) with a pair who are never more than a bit prickly. Not a complaint, mind you, and I felt some of the Allen staples were worked in better than in previous novels, though the emotional jump from coworkers-to-lovers was a bit too elided to make for a smooth transition in the middle of the book. And the bit with Violet was really quite odd? Overall still lying on the floor basking in all the delightful pining, though. I delayed reading this book for six months because this author doesn't publish often and I wanted to savor it. I hath savored, and it was Good.
(Sidenote: I say slow burn in the sense of relative page ratio; it always seems to take so long for the author's protagonists to Catch Feelings and it's so deliciously drawn out that I'm thrown to hell, every time, when there's an offhand mention on page of 'oh, it's only been two weeks'. But in romance, ridiculous timeframes are the absolute norm. The six weeks (!) this book covered might as well have been several eons, in Romance Novel Time. The last romance I read had the protags clamoring to move in with each other after, I think, a long weekend. Slow your roll, guys and girls. So not really a complaint about this specific book so much as... romance tropes are weird.)
(Sidenote: I say slow burn in the sense of relative page ratio; it always seems to take so long for the author's protagonists to Catch Feelings and it's so deliciously drawn out that I'm thrown to hell, every time, when there's an offhand mention on page of 'oh, it's only been two weeks'. But in romance, ridiculous timeframes are the absolute norm. The six weeks (!) this book covered might as well have been several eons, in Romance Novel Time. The last romance I read had the protags clamoring to move in with each other after, I think, a long weekend. Slow your roll, guys and girls. So not really a complaint about this specific book so much as... romance tropes are weird.)
December 4, 2018
Everytime Ms. Allen publishes a book it is a real treat. Loved every second of reading this. Now I feel like the fans of Harry Potter after night-reading binge of a new installment of the saga, satisfied but ruefull, because I know that it will be some two or more years (hopefully not) before a new book by Ms. Allen appears.
The two protagonists of the book, Will and Charlie, are a reporter and an editor in a 19 Century New York newspaper. They are tasked to "spy" of high society and write gossips that would sell the newspaper, while at the same time learn the value of each other's work. That is obviously not the only thing they'll learn.
What I particularly loved about this book was that I wasn't sure, even at 40%, what I am reading - a historical novel, a romance? And if, as suspected, a romance, what romance, who with who? m-f or m-m? There were many possibilities, as if the author let all her options open till the last moment. It was an excellent strategy as it made the book less predictable than most in the genre.
I loved the main plot enormously, however, some of the subplots I didn't enjoy as much. For instance, I didn't find Rose's romance very credible and I think it is because this subplot deserves a book of its own and the lack of space made it somewhat hurried.
The two protagonists of the book, Will and Charlie, are a reporter and an editor in a 19 Century New York newspaper. They are tasked to "spy" of high society and write gossips that would sell the newspaper, while at the same time learn the value of each other's work. That is obviously not the only thing they'll learn.
What I particularly loved about this book was that I wasn't sure, even at 40%, what I am reading - a historical novel, a romance? And if, as suspected, a romance, what romance, who with who? m-f or m-m? There were many possibilities, as if the author let all her options open till the last moment. It was an excellent strategy as it made the book less predictable than most in the genre.
I loved the main plot enormously, however, some of the subplots I didn't enjoy as much. For instance, I didn't find Rose's romance very credible and I think it is because this subplot deserves a book of its own and the lack of space made it somewhat hurried.
November 24, 2021
It took me a looong time to get into this one. Not sure I would have made it through if I wasn't already a fan of the author.
February 18, 2019
I enjoyed it but liked it less than her previous books. Sometimes there were things I didn’t understand and it took 66% of the book before the 2 MCs started to get together. Then it was too quick. Still, pretty good. I just didn’t love it the way I loved her previous ones.
December 9, 2018
Nice period feel and I enjoyed the opposites attract romance. It’s very (very) slow burn but when it finally gets there it’s a sweet payoff.
November 4, 2022
Kindle-Sort-ReRead
I enjoyed this, though it's more atmosphere and society of the times then any real chemistry or tension. Allen is always worth a read. Not my favourite of hers but an entertaining read.
I enjoyed this, though it's more atmosphere and society of the times then any real chemistry or tension. Allen is always worth a read. Not my favourite of hers but an entertaining read.
May 2, 2019
Title/Author: Invitation to the Dance by Tamara Allen
Series/Standalone: Standalone
Genre/Sub-Genre: Historical MM Romance
Book Format: ebook
Length: 351 pages
LGBTQ+ Orientation: Gay
HEA/HFN: Yes
Abuse/Rape: No
Violence: Some very minor things do occur, but nothing graphic
Ratio of Sex/Plot: Mostly plot
Well Written/Editor Needed: Well written, for the most part, but structurally odd. See my thoughts below.
Would I Re-Read?: No
Personal Thoughts: This was a very light, enjoyable read for the most part, even though I'm not a fan of high society/gossip columns. However, I did have some issues with the way the romance played out. It was mostly non-existent until halfway through the novel and then it was full speed ahead without anything really standing in their way. The rest of the book becomes a sort of mystery toward the end, that we don't have in the beginning, which I thought was interesting. I did really like the characters. Caroline, Miss Mayhew, the police constable, Charlie, and Will, they were fun, and I felt comfortable in their company. I will say, the relationship between Miss Mayhew and the constable was ADORABLE. Again, this was enjoyable, and entertaining, but not necessarily my cup of tea.
Series/Standalone: Standalone
Genre/Sub-Genre: Historical MM Romance
Book Format: ebook
Length: 351 pages
LGBTQ+ Orientation: Gay
HEA/HFN: Yes
Abuse/Rape: No
Violence: Some very minor things do occur, but nothing graphic
Ratio of Sex/Plot: Mostly plot
Well Written/Editor Needed: Well written, for the most part, but structurally odd. See my thoughts below.
Would I Re-Read?: No
Personal Thoughts: This was a very light, enjoyable read for the most part, even though I'm not a fan of high society/gossip columns. However, I did have some issues with the way the romance played out. It was mostly non-existent until halfway through the novel and then it was full speed ahead without anything really standing in their way. The rest of the book becomes a sort of mystery toward the end, that we don't have in the beginning, which I thought was interesting. I did really like the characters. Caroline, Miss Mayhew, the police constable, Charlie, and Will, they were fun, and I felt comfortable in their company. I will say, the relationship between Miss Mayhew and the constable was ADORABLE. Again, this was enjoyable, and entertaining, but not necessarily my cup of tea.
December 12, 2022
Allen’s books always make me feel like I’ve been dropped into the deep end, where I’m supposed to use existing knowledge about the time period to help me get to know the characters and their motivations. This was no exception, and I was often distracted looking for clues I could use to look up exactly when this book took place. But once I found my footing I was totally immersed in the setting and eagerly following the characters as their web of deceit became more and more complicated.
The romance was understated, with the characters feelings mostly in the background for the first half of the story. While this made sense given they had a lot of distrust to work though, the portion where they pine after each other wasn’t as convincing as it could have been if their romantic feelings had started awakening sooner. But I did like where they wound up, and having them work so hard to develop trust made the romance feel satisfying and earned.
The romance was understated, with the characters feelings mostly in the background for the first half of the story. While this made sense given they had a lot of distrust to work though, the portion where they pine after each other wasn’t as convincing as it could have been if their romantic feelings had started awakening sooner. But I did like where they wound up, and having them work so hard to develop trust made the romance feel satisfying and earned.
January 21, 2019
A funny, sensitive and sweet love story set in 1890's New York City
Tamara Allen doesn't so much write romance novels as she expresses what love in a relationship feels like. The novel that introduced me to her, Downtime, stands out for the sheer passionate intensity between its two main characters. Even after reading 50+ other novels since, the love described between the men in Downtime resonates with a kind of fresh, exuberant energy. While Invitation To The Dance has less dramatic action, its main characters are endearing, authentic and funny, two guys who, if you were to meet them, would be true friends and whose happiness you'd want to fight for. While the energy is different, I have a feeling I'll be remembering this novel for quite some time.
Invitation To The Dance follows William Nesmith, a smart, conscientious, and practical 27 year old whose new editorial job suddenly becomes precarious as he's made to work with the outgoing, risk-taking Charlie, a 28 year old reporter. William, a man of modest means, plans to marry a long time friend and heiress, Violet Chapin, until, through a series of foibles and adventures in the high society of 1890's New York City, he finds his relationship on the rocks and his feelings for Charlie growing. Unbeknownst to William, wise-cracking Charlie starts to feel the same way. William, Charlie and Violet are surrounded by a cast of charming, sweet and occasionally difficult characters, as well as by a few devious ones.
The outstanding accomplishment in this book is the way that the author depicts the evolution of the relationship between William and Charlie. Ms. Allen writes with a mischievous wit that is no less for its sensitivity and caring. She shows the relationship subtly shifting into one where there is greater ease, comfort and growing intimacy between the two men. The author does a fine job of showing the minute, incremental steps - the nudges, foibles, and joking, the way everyday empathy and consideration grows into deeper feeling, and the playful, half-serious bickering - that, for some, turn into unexpected loving relationships. I was particularly impressed with the way she imagined the scene in which William and Charlie confront one another for the first time over their feelings.
The author writes dialogue that has the feel of a real conversation, where not everything is spelled out. When characters speak, they reflect a reality in which they share an unspoken understanding of their context and who they are to each other in it. The author is adept at describing characters' mixed emotions and the discrepancies between outward behavior and inner thought and feeling.
I laughed out loud several times while reading this book, and not far into it started rooting for the characters. I encourage you to give it, and Ms. Allen, a try - I think you'll be glad you did
Tamara Allen doesn't so much write romance novels as she expresses what love in a relationship feels like. The novel that introduced me to her, Downtime, stands out for the sheer passionate intensity between its two main characters. Even after reading 50+ other novels since, the love described between the men in Downtime resonates with a kind of fresh, exuberant energy. While Invitation To The Dance has less dramatic action, its main characters are endearing, authentic and funny, two guys who, if you were to meet them, would be true friends and whose happiness you'd want to fight for. While the energy is different, I have a feeling I'll be remembering this novel for quite some time.
Invitation To The Dance follows William Nesmith, a smart, conscientious, and practical 27 year old whose new editorial job suddenly becomes precarious as he's made to work with the outgoing, risk-taking Charlie, a 28 year old reporter. William, a man of modest means, plans to marry a long time friend and heiress, Violet Chapin, until, through a series of foibles and adventures in the high society of 1890's New York City, he finds his relationship on the rocks and his feelings for Charlie growing. Unbeknownst to William, wise-cracking Charlie starts to feel the same way. William, Charlie and Violet are surrounded by a cast of charming, sweet and occasionally difficult characters, as well as by a few devious ones.
The outstanding accomplishment in this book is the way that the author depicts the evolution of the relationship between William and Charlie. Ms. Allen writes with a mischievous wit that is no less for its sensitivity and caring. She shows the relationship subtly shifting into one where there is greater ease, comfort and growing intimacy between the two men. The author does a fine job of showing the minute, incremental steps - the nudges, foibles, and joking, the way everyday empathy and consideration grows into deeper feeling, and the playful, half-serious bickering - that, for some, turn into unexpected loving relationships. I was particularly impressed with the way she imagined the scene in which William and Charlie confront one another for the first time over their feelings.
The author writes dialogue that has the feel of a real conversation, where not everything is spelled out. When characters speak, they reflect a reality in which they share an unspoken understanding of their context and who they are to each other in it. The author is adept at describing characters' mixed emotions and the discrepancies between outward behavior and inner thought and feeling.
I laughed out loud several times while reading this book, and not far into it started rooting for the characters. I encourage you to give it, and Ms. Allen, a try - I think you'll be glad you did
September 29, 2020
3.5 out of 5 - Engaging Gay 90s, but Veered from Reality at Times
This was a nice period piece with the setting of gay 90s newspaper room and NYC society. While at times unrealistic, it was still a good enough story to eventually engage me in the Times (purposely used as a double entendre for the period and the newspaper, but in this it was actually the Herald).
I liked the MCs and newsroom situation that set up the enemies-to-lovers trope - one a reporter, the other his nemesis of a new column editor, starting this out with tension in the newsroom. Then they were realistically thrust into an assignment together that created the arc for the story. It was fine that it was slow burn; but in the first third there was not a single hint of one MC’s inclination. Then all of a sudden, once he saw his fiance was in love with someone else, it was love for him too? It may have been building for him, but as a reader I was not let in on it, so it came across as unrealistic.
A number of other things were unrealistic as well, including: Any good reporter would check credentials right away once suspicion was aroused, not 110 pages later near the end. And, what “luck” (as he even admits) it was indeed to catch the right carriage just before it turned the corner, in order to save the day. And, I can understand how they can be a bit forgiving, but that was just too much.
And, a few key characters were unrealistic as well. I certainly didn't like Violet, due to her repeated self-centered meanness. But that was pretty much all I saw, being hit over the head with it instead of any nuance (i.e., one-dimensional). I suspected the two villains early on, way before even the reporter. At least, one of them was made out to be fairly interesting; but the other was pretty one-note as well.
Fortunately, once things eventually fell in place, it went at a pretty good clip from there to a satisfactory ending.
This was a nice period piece with the setting of gay 90s newspaper room and NYC society. While at times unrealistic, it was still a good enough story to eventually engage me in the Times (purposely used as a double entendre for the period and the newspaper, but in this it was actually the Herald).
I liked the MCs and newsroom situation that set up the enemies-to-lovers trope - one a reporter, the other his nemesis of a new column editor, starting this out with tension in the newsroom. Then they were realistically thrust into an assignment together that created the arc for the story. It was fine that it was slow burn; but in the first third there was not a single hint of one MC’s inclination. Then all of a sudden, once he saw his fiance was in love with someone else, it was love for him too? It may have been building for him, but as a reader I was not let in on it, so it came across as unrealistic.
A number of other things were unrealistic as well, including: Any good reporter would check credentials right away once suspicion was aroused, not 110 pages later near the end. And, what “luck” (as he even admits) it was indeed to catch the right carriage just before it turned the corner, in order to save the day. And, I can understand how they can be a bit forgiving, but that was just too much.
And, a few key characters were unrealistic as well. I certainly didn't like Violet, due to her repeated self-centered meanness. But that was pretty much all I saw, being hit over the head with it instead of any nuance (i.e., one-dimensional). I suspected the two villains early on, way before even the reporter. At least, one of them was made out to be fairly interesting; but the other was pretty one-note as well.
Fortunately, once things eventually fell in place, it went at a pretty good clip from there to a satisfactory ending.
December 31, 2022
This was *adorable*. No peril, just a lovely story. I adored the bit where they spent the night on the beach on Staten Island. <3
December 22, 2024
✨Nina’s Ever-After Barometer✨
4 ⭐ on Goodreads
🩷Swoon Factor: 8/10
Set in New York at the end of the 19th-century, the love story between editor William Nesmith and reporter Charlie Kohlbeck is definitely a slow waltz, but the understated charm and delightful tension swept me off my feet before I even realised it.
🏳️🌈LGBTQ+ Representation Meter: 9/10
I’ll read anything featuring LGBTQ+ characters in a historical setting, but Allen’s portrayal of queer love in Gilded Age New York felt especially authentic and nuanced.
🔥Steam Level: 7/10
Subtle and restrained, but suited to the time period - the romance thrives on charged glances, discreet touches, and unspoken words.
😍MC Likeability Scale: 7.5/10
Both MCs had me grumbling ‘just talk to each other already!’ more than once, but Charlie charmed me from the start and William grew on me. Together, they’re a dynamic, irresistible duo.
⚡Banter Count: 8/10
Witty repartee at the workplace? Count me in! At times, it felt like scenes from classic screwball comedy, and I loved every moment of it.
💥Conflict Intensity: 8/10
I adore high-stakes stories where the stakes go beyond the relationship. Navigating professional rivalries and society’s expectations, Charlie and Will make quite the team - impossible not to root for them.
❤️🩹Angst Quotient: 7/10
Plenty of pining and inner (and social) turmoil to keep your heart aching throughout without tipping into melodrama.
📚Trope Density: 7.5/10
From workplace rivals to reluctant allies, then friends, then secret lovers, the progression is equal parts believable and gripping.
🪴Setting Quality: 9/10
Allen’s well-researched depiction captures both the opulence and grit of the Gilded Age, making the setting engaging (also, more middle-class MCs in historical romance, please, it doesn’t need to be all dukes and heiresses).
✅Ending payoff: 8/10
Given the setup, the conclusion felt like a genuine reward for my emotional investment. Would I care to read more about the MCs or their universe? YES.
💌 In short: Invitation to the Dance is a charming, smile-inducing historical romance that masterfully blends wit, tension, and heartfelt emotion, set against the evocative backdrop of Gilded Age New York.
4 ⭐ on Goodreads
🩷Swoon Factor: 8/10
Set in New York at the end of the 19th-century, the love story between editor William Nesmith and reporter Charlie Kohlbeck is definitely a slow waltz, but the understated charm and delightful tension swept me off my feet before I even realised it.
🏳️🌈LGBTQ+ Representation Meter: 9/10
I’ll read anything featuring LGBTQ+ characters in a historical setting, but Allen’s portrayal of queer love in Gilded Age New York felt especially authentic and nuanced.
🔥Steam Level: 7/10
Subtle and restrained, but suited to the time period - the romance thrives on charged glances, discreet touches, and unspoken words.
😍MC Likeability Scale: 7.5/10
Both MCs had me grumbling ‘just talk to each other already!’ more than once, but Charlie charmed me from the start and William grew on me. Together, they’re a dynamic, irresistible duo.
⚡Banter Count: 8/10
Witty repartee at the workplace? Count me in! At times, it felt like scenes from classic screwball comedy, and I loved every moment of it.
💥Conflict Intensity: 8/10
I adore high-stakes stories where the stakes go beyond the relationship. Navigating professional rivalries and society’s expectations, Charlie and Will make quite the team - impossible not to root for them.
❤️🩹Angst Quotient: 7/10
Plenty of pining and inner (and social) turmoil to keep your heart aching throughout without tipping into melodrama.
📚Trope Density: 7.5/10
From workplace rivals to reluctant allies, then friends, then secret lovers, the progression is equal parts believable and gripping.
🪴Setting Quality: 9/10
Allen’s well-researched depiction captures both the opulence and grit of the Gilded Age, making the setting engaging (also, more middle-class MCs in historical romance, please, it doesn’t need to be all dukes and heiresses).
✅Ending payoff: 8/10
Given the setup, the conclusion felt like a genuine reward for my emotional investment. Would I care to read more about the MCs or their universe? YES.
💌 In short: Invitation to the Dance is a charming, smile-inducing historical romance that masterfully blends wit, tension, and heartfelt emotion, set against the evocative backdrop of Gilded Age New York.
January 7, 2019
3.5 stars
December 31, 2020
I’ve said it before and I’m going to say it again: Tamara Allen knows how to write. Having thoroughly enjoyed The Only Gold and The Road to Silver Plume, I knew Invitation to the Dance was going to be no exception. However, the word ‘enjoyment’ is an insufficient description of what I felt while reading it.
Like with the two other books of hers that I’ve read, I was drawn into this one immediately. The story started slowly and the pace kept building up beautifully. It just kept getting better with each following page.
I connected with the main characters from the start. Their first meeting in the office was clever and so well written (like the rest of the book). Charlie’s sarcastic bluntness and Will’s practical and sophisticated nature made me want to never stop reading. Their journey from enemies to forced-to-work-together partners to friends and finally lovers was executed flawlessly. It was just the right amount of slow burn and each stage of their relationship had a wonderful transition to the next one. Their tender scenes were described in wonderful detail and I could feel the love they felt for each other. So many times while reading I forgot they were fictional and wished I could get the chance to meet them. The supporting characters were more than just that; each one played an important part in the story.
It’s safe to say that this is one of the best books I’ve ever read. Tamara Allen is amazingly talented and it‘s a shame she isn’t a well known author. I truly hope this will change in the future.
Like with the two other books of hers that I’ve read, I was drawn into this one immediately. The story started slowly and the pace kept building up beautifully. It just kept getting better with each following page.
I connected with the main characters from the start. Their first meeting in the office was clever and so well written (like the rest of the book). Charlie’s sarcastic bluntness and Will’s practical and sophisticated nature made me want to never stop reading. Their journey from enemies to forced-to-work-together partners to friends and finally lovers was executed flawlessly. It was just the right amount of slow burn and each stage of their relationship had a wonderful transition to the next one. Their tender scenes were described in wonderful detail and I could feel the love they felt for each other. So many times while reading I forgot they were fictional and wished I could get the chance to meet them. The supporting characters were more than just that; each one played an important part in the story.
It’s safe to say that this is one of the best books I’ve ever read. Tamara Allen is amazingly talented and it‘s a shame she isn’t a well known author. I truly hope this will change in the future.
January 14, 2019
Love, love, love.
I've long admired Tamra Allen's dedication to historical research, and she clearly thrives in this time period. I've read this book in small increments, to try and make it last; then finished off the last 20% in one sitting -- I couldn't put it down.
The relationship between Will and Charlie was lovely; I found myself gunning for Rose and Archie, those sweet kids; the intrigue developed slowly overtime and tied up beautifully in the end. The homey, warm, intimate feeling of the boarding house reminded me of the found family vibes in Downtime and The Only Gold, which I loved then and still do now.
I have a few quibbles -- , but overall that was a cracking good read.
I've long admired Tamra Allen's dedication to historical research, and she clearly thrives in this time period. I've read this book in small increments, to try and make it last; then finished off the last 20% in one sitting -- I couldn't put it down.
The relationship between Will and Charlie was lovely; I found myself gunning for Rose and Archie, those sweet kids; the intrigue developed slowly overtime and tied up beautifully in the end. The homey, warm, intimate feeling of the boarding house reminded me of the found family vibes in Downtime and The Only Gold, which I loved then and still do now.
I have a few quibbles -- , but overall that was a cracking good read.
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