Review: Romance, NYC, Society rules all make for an amazing story!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 20, 2013
I had the honor and privilege to read an advanced copy of A Prior Engagement, the most recent novel by romance author S.L. Scott.A Prior Engagement tells the story of Everleigh (Evie) Wright and William Ryder. Evie and William are college students at a Manhattan university. They come from markedly different backgrounds. William is from working class Staten Island and works full-time, in addition to attending school full-time in order to barely support himself in a studio apartment. In contrast, Everleigh comes from wealth and the New York aristocracy including all the social expectations and family obligations. The two meet in class and a friendship develops. Although they both have deeper feelings, Evie is held back by commitments made by her family. Heartbreak ensues when William learns Evie's secrets. However, after several twists and turns and with the help of many supporting characters love wins out.Ms. Scott writes A Prior Engagement in the third person, giving the story a real Austen style feel. In addition, her use of the themes of class and money and pride are also reminiscent of Austen. It is interesting to see the rules and regimentation of society are still strong in modern day New York City.I loved the characters. William is hard working, smart, honest and loyal man.  Evie works to be strong and independent against the strict societal rules imposed on her. They both grow as individuals then together as a couple as they learn to understand each other. They find that even though they experienced very different up bringings, they share similar values. My favorite quote from the book is a piece of advice Evie receives from a stranger "Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true." ( Leon Joseph Cardinal Suenen).  Evie and William both pay a price in the story, but they are able to realize their dreams and find their happiness.The supporting characters are also very well written.  I particularly loved Walter the doorman in Evie's building and Professor Langley because they are very supportive of the young couple.  The interweaving of New York City -Central Park, the Public Library, Hunter College, the ferries and subways as part of the story brings even more life to this vibrant story. The story is so well written that I could not put the book down.S.L. Scott takes the classic story line of lovers that are not meant to be due to societal rules, sets it in modern day New York and shows us once again that you can realize your dreams and find happiness.  I am a true romantic.  I love Austen. I love New York.  I love A Prior Engagement.  I guarantee you will as well.