Bestselling author Susan Wiggs once again delights readers with her portrayal of unconventional women and the men who learn to love them. In HALFWAY TO HEAVEN Ms. Wiggs takes the reader on a journey to late nineteenth century Washington D.C. There, the reader is treated to a heart-warming romance and a view of the politics of the times.

Miss Abigail Cabot is the daughter of Senator Franklin Cabot, and seems to be a social failure, always causing some mishap or other at important gatherings. At a recent wedding, her deformed foot nearly gave way just as the scoundrel, Virginia Congressman, Jamie Calhoun, rescued her.

Jamie notices Abby's adoring gaze falling on Lieutenant Boyd Butler, son of the vice-president. But Boyd has eyes only for the beautiful Helena, Abby's sister. As Abby agrees to write Helena's letters to Boyd, she discloses her heart's innermost feelings, and Boyd falls in love with the letter-writer. Jamie decides to help Abby to transform herself into someone Boyd could fall in love with. Jamie's friendship with Abby blossoms when he shows an interest in her studies of astronomy. Although he trys to convince himself that he is only acting in his self-interest -to attain the support of Senator Cabot for anti-railroad legislation.

Rounding out this delightful romp are supporting characters such as Professor Rowan, the neighborly absent minded professor and object of Helena's desire as well as Princess Layla, the woman who had once captured Jamie's heart.

For a lovely lyrical read, Ms. Wiggs' latest creation is not to be missed.

EXCELLENT

Jo Anderson

A.L.R. Reviews