I have enjoyed all of Luanne Rice's novels set in Black Hall along the Connecticut shoreline. THE NIGHT BEFORE is a twenty-four page short story which ties in characters from Silver Bells and The Lemon Orchard written by Ms. Rice.

An early morning thunderstorm has awakened artist Lydia Mason. She woke up to the sound of thunder and sees the flash of lightening pass over her family's Christmas tree farm. Lydia is concerned because she is hosting a very special wedding at her home. She decides to sketch a drawing as a gift for Danny and Isabel, who met on the farm last year at Christmas. As Lydia draws, she recalls meeting Isabel's mother Sara and she remembers her own Mother and her own wedding which was held at the farm..

The thunderstorm is the catalyst in THE NIGHT BEFORE. The storm passed through the tree farm damaging trees that Lydia's mother had planted, nurtured and loved. THE NIGHT BEFORE takes place during the aftermath of the storm. The short story touches upon the themes of love, new beginnings and endings and friendship. Ms. Rice has created characters which will touch your heart and stay with you long after you have finished the story.

THE NIGHT BEFORE is a perfect afternoon or evening read. I enjoyed my trip to Black Hall and I know that you will love this short story as well.