Melanie Middleton has made a name for herself as one of Charleston's finest realtors specializing in historic homes. From faded, torn wallpaper to chipping, cracked paint, there is nothing quite like that feeling of exhilaration associated with restoring a piece of history. Within the walls lie snippets of actual events that define the character and charm of a place that's been called home by generations of South Carolinian families. Quite ironically, Melanie's fondness for the source of her livelihood abruptly comes to an end once her client signs on the dotted line. Whereas they see the structures as diamonds in the rough, Melanie views them more as old piles of decaying wood most likely infested with termites. She'd much rather live in a place surrounded by pristine walls painted in crisp, white paint than have to bang hammers and nails to bring back an old house's luster. As if the fates were plotting against her, Melanie winds up inheriting one of the finest examples of Charleston architecture on Tradd Street...the former home of Mr. Vanderhorst, a prominent man in the city. She soon discovers that her newly acquired bequest comes with some major stipulations. First, she must inhabit the home for one year. And secondly, she has to restore it back to its antebellum grandeur financed by the generosity of this mysterious gentleman. While debating her options, Melanie meets Jack Trenholm, a handsome writer who has a particular interest in the house. According to his research, there may be some missing diamonds from the Confederate Treasury hidden within the walls. Realizing she has nothing to lose and much to gain, she agrees to allow him to search for what might be the key to the historic home's history. What they don't expect to find are some angry ghosts who would prefer to let the past remain uncovered. THE HOUSE ON TRADD STREET is the latest novel by the exceptionally talented Karen White, who expertly depicts the Southern charm of South Carolina's lowcountry through her poetic yet concise writing. Once again, she delivers what her readers have come to expect...sweet delight.