Aurelia wins that chance for love, but in the most unexpected of places, when she opens the door one day to find a gorgeous man named Walter, on bent knee, offering her a heartfelt proposal and engagement ring. The only problem is Aurelia has no clue who he is—but he seems to know her. Even worse, he spins a story about traveling too far back in time, claiming there are now two of him—and both are interested in her. What follows is a slightly madcap adventure featuring time travel, clean romance, and faith, as Champenois playfully toys with the concept of two Walters—one with full knowledge of the past and one who’s happily lost in the joyous voyage of falling in love.
The time travel elements are immersive, if a little confusing, and readers without Aurelia’s religious background may encounter some unfamiliar elements (particularly the significance of being sealed in the temple for marriage or the yearly general conference), but Champenois includes religious notes in the supplementary material for added clarification. Aurelia eventually earns her happy ending, and the novel’s innocence and sense of wonder will appeal to readers who enjoy tender, satisfying love stories.
Takeaway: A faith-based romantic comedy with lively time travel hijinks.
Comparable Titles: Traci Hunter Abramson’s Dancing to Freedom, Nancy Scanlon’s Once Upon a Summer Night.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A
