Once Upon a Winter's Eve (Spindle Cove, #1.5)

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Once Upon a Winter's Eve (Spindle Cove #1.5)

by Tessa Dare (Goodreads Author)

3.69 of 5 stars 3.69 · rating details · 1,777 ratings · 246 reviews

Some wallflowers bloom at night...

A "Spindle Cove" Novella

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's f...more

ebook, 113 pages

Published November 15th 2011 by Samhain Publishing

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Historical Fiction 2012 Releases - Which books are you looking forward to the most?

72nd out of 178 books — 1,186 voters

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Best Seasonal Romance {Christmas, Winter}

30th out of 338 books — 379 voters

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Aug 20, 2012 Laura the Highland Hussy rated it 4 of 5 stars

http://www.demonloversbooksandmore.co...

Violet Winterbottom had her heart shattered. Above and beyond broken. Like that scene from Sex and the City where Carrie was broken up with via Post It note. Yeah, that bad.

So Violet does something not too many heroines in Historicals do-She grows up. She gets over him. She moves away to Spindle Cove, and realizes that she doesn't need a man to be happy.

Then a dangerous, bloody, bedraggled stranger falls at her feet (literally) and passes out. But the one...more

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Nov 19, 2011 Jill rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-european

In a setting much like this one, almost a year ago. A man she'd adored for years had finally noticed her. Locked gazes with her across a crowded room, then carved his way through the throng to take her hand.

But in the end, he had proved to be a disappointment.

The Disappointment

Violet Winterbottom is clever, pretty but no beauty. She had loved her neighbour, Lord Christian Pierce, for years and finally he'd noticed her. But then with barely a word he'd left. Well, twenty-six words in a note to be...more

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Jan 28, 2013 edzkie♥§*.*§♥ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

“I did hate you... But forget? How could I ever forget?” You broke my heart into twenty-six pieces that day. But do you know something, Christian? Over the past several months here in Spindle Cove, I’ve stitched those pieces back together.”

The Disappointment.

Lord Christian Pierce was named as "The Disappointment" after he broke Violet Winterbottom's heart. She went to Spindle Cove to heal. Considered herself as a wallflower she was shocked when a man crashes the officers' ball and cling to her....more

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Nov 23, 2011 willaful rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: heroes-behaving-badly, reunited-or-have-history, unusual-heroine, story-novella-or-anthology

3.5 stars. A truly indomitable heroine is the highlight of this sweetly romantic novella. Violet Winterbottom is a determined wallflower, after a Disappointment broke her heart. But then a wounded, foreign stranger -- or is he? -- bursts into a ball and collapses at her feet, beginning an adventure that will test her mettle and bring her back to life. The story loses some of its edge after the mystery of the stranger's appearance is solved and the style is generally frothy, but Violet's strength...more

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Nov 21, 2011 Alexa Yupangco rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle-books-i-own, 2011-all-stars

Review posted on Alexa Loves Books

Oh Tessa Dare, you have a gift for telling stories. I have yet to finish reading my way through all of your novels, but I squeezed in this little novella recently and it has become my absolute favorite story from you as of the moment. I mean, combining a quiet wallflower with a special talent and a mysterious, injured stranger? That alone is intriguing enough a premise for any fan of historical romances.

And the story took my breath away. As the story of our myst...more

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Nov 02, 2011 Kati rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-reads, arc, favorite-books, historicals, novella, books-with-reviews, 2011-reviews

***original review posted at Romancing Rakes***

***contains spoilers, read at your own risk***

You know, I've got stop taking peeks at some of these books I've been getting until I'm done reading older review books. But who am I to resist the temptation of a Tessa Dare story? Obviously, I keep coming back for more, like that poor girl, Violet Winterbottom. I don't know when to quit and I'm glad I didn't. My self restraint is as good as Lord Christian Pierce's, barely non-existent. At least when it...more ***original review posted at Romancing Rakes***

***contains spoilers, read at your own risk***

You know, I've got stop taking peeks at some of these books I've been getting until I'm done reading older review books. But who am I to resist the temptation of a Tessa Dare story? Obviously, I keep coming back for more, like that poor girl, Violet Winterbottom. I don't know when to quit and I'm glad I didn't. My self restraint is as good as Lord Christian Pierce's, barely non-existent. At least when it come to the lovely Violet.

Violet Winterbottom gave everything away to The Disappointment a year ago and he left her with a note, 26 stinking words! Since then, she's been trying to get over him and now that she finally sort of has, He comes back into her life in the form of an injured crazed man, washed on to the shores of Spindle Cove.

Violet is very surprised when the man bursts through the door during the winter ball, babbling incoherently and grabs for her dress. Since she has a knack for languages, Lord Rycliff (the hero of A Night to Surrender) asks her what the man is saying. He keeps repeating the same thing over and over again. His name, where he's from, what he does and the fact he knows nothing.

(view spoiler)(less)

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Nov 21, 2011 Among The Muses rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011, favorite-author, historical-romance, novella, series, themed

Rated 4.5 on the blog.

Another fabulous edition to the Spindle Cove series!! Have no fear if you haven't read the first one yet; but, beware, you'll want to after reading this novella! The short Christmas theme story is a fabulous addition to this series!

Once Upon a Winter's Eve is a great introduction for those who have not yet read, A Night to Surrender (book #1), but want to get a taste for Tessa Dare's fantastic writing style, setting, and character dynamics. This novella can be read as a st...more Rated 4.5 on the blog.

Another fabulous edition to the Spindle Cove series!! Have no fear if you haven't read the first one yet; but, beware, you'll want to after reading this novella! The short Christmas theme story is a fabulous addition to this series!

Once Upon a Winter's Eve is a great introduction for those who have not yet read, A Night to Surrender (book #1), but want to get a taste for Tessa Dare's fantastic writing style, setting, and character dynamics. This novella can be read as a stand alone, although readers who have read the first book will be left with a deeper appreciation and enjoyment of the series after reading OUaWE.

Spindle Cove -- aka. Spinsters Cove -- is the perfect place for young woman to either escape to, or be tucked discretely away from the prying eyes of the ton. Located not far from London, but far enough away from society, woman find a safe haven in this peculiar, small town, with the majority of the men belonging to a makeshift militia during the time that England is at war with France. Here woman can be themselves and find comfort and peace when the ton would only pass judgement and rumors.

In Once Upon a Winter's Eve, the novella length story is centered around Violet Winterbottom, the ideal woman who would find sanctuary at Spindle Cove. While I would love to talk about the great plot line, I simply can't because it would completely spoil the "Ah-Hah" effect! :)

What I *can* tell you is that reading OUaWE cemented my love for this series. Tessa's writing style is not only easy to follow and get swept away in, but she creates characters that truly seem three-dimensional. I was able to get a real sense of each character, how they worked through their emotions, and the way they grew and developed during the course of the plot. I have to also point out that Tessa throws in a great sense of humor, which obviously adds to the reader either laughing out loud with the characters -- or at them -- or even left feeling embarrassed by their actions.

Speaking of action, the plot moves effortlessly with and with continuous action. While reading this novella, I completely lost track of time and didn't put it down until the very last page.

And the passion. Oh, yes, the passion. Sexual tension -- check! Hot, romantic lovin' -- check! The hero is the sexy, dark, vulnerable, alpha, romantic type; you know, the one we all want for ourselves. And the heroin is a vulnerable, yet strong woman who had grown (from the telling of her back story) from a naive, in love girl, to a woman with strength and a strong sense of self.

It was just so easy to be transported to a small cove along the sea, enjoy these likeable characters, get swept up in the Christmas time romance, laugh at a few quirky moments, and rejoice -- and swoon -- in a great HEA for the couple. I would definitely recommend this Christmas time read for both beginners of the series and those of you who enjoyed book one!(less)

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Jun 09, 2013 Sally rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance

Oh, this is a hard one to rate. Some elements of the story were fantastic, some less so. Starting with the good stuff: I loved Violet - she was fabulous. She'd been disappointed in love, but had refused to mope and had built a new life for herself. She was genuinely feisty - not the pale attempts at feistiness often seen in romances, which are actually closer to petulance - she knew what she wanted, what she didn't and what she was going to do about it. She was clever and funny and I just loved...more

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Mar 22, 2013 Tiffany rated it 4 of 5 stars

This little novella (or is it a novelette?) takes place between A Night to Surrender and A Week to be Wicked. The main characters are Violet Winterbottom (whom we meet briefly in A Night to Surrender) and a mysterious man. Everyone on Spindle Cove is celebrating Christmas Eve at Summerfield when a mysterious, wet, wounded and handsome man barges in and collapses at Violet’s feet. He apparently only speaks Breton and Violet is the only one who can somewhat communicate with him. Bram isn’t convinc...more

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Dec 25, 2012 Heather rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, own, my-ebooks, winter-2012

I love to read romances, and I am an avid reader of romances. I have about 500 titles on my kindle, plus another 200 of physical books in my room. It's one of the genres I am most likely to check out from the library - over my "career" I've probably read close to 3000 romances - easy.

All of this is to say, that when it comes to romances - I'm picky. I want to read a book that is: well-written, with interesting characters and well developed personalities, quirks and preferences for at least the m...more

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Aug 06, 2012 Babyfishmouth rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, kindle

I may start refering to this novella as The Disappointment. I'm not a huge fan of Tessa Dare but have been enjoying the Spindle Cove series so I snagged this novella when I saw the low price. I think I should have taken some time to read more about the premise, though, before I clicked on buy.

Let me start with the good stuff. Tessa Dare's writing style is crisp and clean. Dialogue is great and she has a nice touch with humor and wit. She also allows the unexpected to happen and her plot took tw...more

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May 07, 2012 Angie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

Synopsis: "Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's feet. His coarse attire and near-criminal good looks would put any sensible young lady on her guard. He's wet, chilled, bleeding, and speaking in an unfamiliar tongue.

Only...more

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Feb 08, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, non-erotic

Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...

He speaks a language only she understands. She can be his greatest ally or his worst nightmare. They don't have much time but they plan to make the most of it.

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet young woman is recovering from a broken heart when she meets a mysterious man from a foreign country who distracts her from her memories of the man who left her abruptly after a passionate night together. The man who broke her heart was a refined a...more

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Dec 29, 2011 Ana rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: zz-read-in-2011, historical-regency

Some wallflowers bloom at night...

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's feet. His coarse attire and near-criminal good looks would put any sensible young lady on her guard. He's wet, chilled, bleeding, and speaking in a
...more
Some wallflowers bloom at night...

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's feet. His coarse attire and near-criminal good looks would put any sensible young lady on her guard. He's wet, chilled, bleeding, and speaking in an unfamiliar tongue.

Only Violet understands him. And she knows he's not what he seems.

She has one night to draw forth the secrets of this dangerously handsome rogue. Is he a smuggler? A fugitive? An enemy spy? She needs answers by sunrise, but her captive would rather seduce than confess. To learn his secrets, Violet must reveal hers—and open herself to adventure, passion, and the unthinkable... Love

After reading the first book in the series A Night to Surrender and loving it I decided to read this novella. I usually have a problems with the shortness of the stories, things are usually too rushed for them to be believable. But since I need to read the series in order...

Unfortunately, I didn't like the story. Since the next part of the review contains some spoilers: (view spoiler)

But the one thing I did like is the Spindle Cove, and we do meet the characters from the previous book, and get some news about them. I'll definitely be reading the remaining books of the series A Week to Be Wicked &A Lady by Midnight.

Rating:

2.5 stars(less)

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Nov 19, 2011 Ruth rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: covers-that-are-gorgeous, historical-romance, regency-victorian, series, tasty-little-morsels

This was the first one of the Spindle Cove series that I've read, and although it was an OK read, I'm not sure I could take a full-length HR in this setting. Apparently, there's a whole load of women who've "escaped" to the middle-of-nowhere Cornwall to get away from men, but who then each find love - with a man. I don't know. this sounds slightly weird to me, and not particularly exciting. I've read a few books by Tessa Dare, and some I really, really liked, and others didn't really do much for...more

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Nov 18, 2011 Barbara ~*Lindt Ninja*~ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, series

Violet Winterbottom left London for quiet little Spindle Cove following what she called, “The Disappointment” – a tryst with a man she'd known since childhood who didn’t return her feelings and was gone the following day. Despite her wish to stay hidden away with her friends, after this final Christmas ball in the Cove, her family is expecting her to return to London and find a suitable match.

The Christmas Ball is interrupted by a filthy, bloody man bursting into the ballroom and collapsing at V...more Violet Winterbottom left London for quiet little Spindle Cove following what she called, “The Disappointment” – a tryst with a man she'd known since childhood who didn’t return her feelings and was gone the following day. Despite her wish to stay hidden away with her friends, after this final Christmas ball in the Cove, her family is expecting her to return to London and find a suitable match.

The Christmas Ball is interrupted by a filthy, bloody man bursting into the ballroom and collapsing at Violet’s feet. This stranger – who seems frighteningly familiar despite his battered, scarred face – won’t let go of her and speaks a language that may indicate he’s a spy, washed ashore. As a search party is gathered to look for any other survivors of a possible wrecked spy vessel, Violet is left to watch over the intruder – but once they’re alone, she finds out it was no accident that brought him there and he’s no stranger to her.

I haven’t read the first Spindle Cove book and I don’t think you have to in order to enjoy this. I’m an enormous Tessa Dare fan and I’m pretty sure I’ve jumped into most of her series’ after the first book and ended up backtracking and it was perfectly fine. She has a lovely way of putting characters from other books into scenes without making you feel like you’ve missed an entire vital back story, no matter how big their contribution.

The plot is nicely condensed for the size of the novella and takes place over the course of a night with a bit of an epilogue. Even in just a little bit of time, there’s a lot of adventure going on – people getting tied up, knocked out, innocent dress forms are molested, Violet gets herself thoroughly ruined a second time and the Cove’s militia is roused. It was fun that while Christian may have been the great spy – or something – it was Violet who led the way and saved him when he needed it.

Violet begins the story as a bit of a dejected girl holding up the corner of the ballroom. She’s been discarded by the man she’s loved for years and believing all she has to offer anyone is her ability to speak about a dozen languages, she’d rather just stay in Spindle Cove. Even before she knows who this brute at her feet is, she’s getting stronger and more confident and by mid-story, it was pretty clear he’d have some work to do to be worthy of her this time. Still, even when she was ready to smack him down, Violet never lost her compassion for Christian, keeping her from tipping into a shrill or angry jilted lover.

I just don’t know if I have it in me to love Christian as much as Violet did. He was sort of a…disappointment. I think it may just have been the nature of the beast of a novella that did it – if this had been a longer format, maybe he would have had a better chance to redeem himself. I enjoyed the beginning segment when Violet wasn’t completely sure who he was and I really loved it when Violet stood up to him while she was helping him. The more he was explaining his actions in London and pleading his case though, the more I started to want to tie him back up in the ballroom.

Any weaknesses in the story would be exactly what you’d expect in a novella. There’s not enough room to really develop the characters or their relationship fully, so when they declare their love it feels a little too fast. Obviously I knew Christian and Violet had a past and it was delved into quite a bit and passionately, I only mostly believed in his redemption and probably because he sure did say it nicely. I liked all of the action while Violet and Christian were running around the Cove, but it did stretch on for a while and it wouldn’t surprise me if some people thought it was a bit too long.

I just love the sense of humor that Dare uses in everything she writes – it’s mostly just a gentle smile here and there in this story, a reminder that not everything has to be taken completely seriously. Christian and Violet’s story is one of my favorite types, the friends-to-lovers trope, although it’s condensed enough into a novella format that it’s a little hard to recognize. Christian’s plot to find her before she went home no matter what is a terrifically romantic concept and I loved the heroine and her courage – the hero will have to work on himself a little though.

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Nov 16, 2011 Kelly rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebooks, historical, read-in-2011

This is another one that was a perfect match for my reading mood when I picked it up. Don't you love it when that happens? Well, I do. I really, really enjoy Tessa Dare's writing style and her characters - especially poor Violet - jumped off the page. From the moment the stranger makes an appearance, she begins to blossom. Her sadness, the slow way she's managed to put her life back together, and her heartache over the past all made her an immensely likable character. Her suspicions over the str...more

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Dec 07, 2012 Tam B. rated it 3 of 5 stars

I bought this novella as I wanted to try a Tessa Dare book about Spindle Cove. I don't think I'll be trying any of the novels.

This book disappointed me as the hero lived up to his nick name of The Disappointment. This is a gentleman (the son of a Duke), who seduced our heroine and took her virginity without a promise of anything or a word of affection and then left town the next day. We later learn that he has become a spy and started his training for his position that next day BUT he also had c...more

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Dec 12, 2011 Francesca the Fierce (Under the Covers Book Blog) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: anthologies-novellas, books-read-2011, genre-historical

This review was posted at Under The Covers

I've been checking out this series for a while so when I saw this Christmas read for only $0.79 on Kindle I had to jump on it. I've never read this author either so it was the perfect sampler. Now I can't wait to read more.

This historical has some spunk. Violet is no wilting flower. She was in love with her neighbor, Christian, her whole life. Then one night he finally notices her and takes her virginity, only to leave town the next day. From then on, he...more

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May 23, 2013 Anna D. rated it 3 of 5 stars

An okay short read with some great highlights. There was one thing that I couldn’t believe or even convince myself to just ignore and go with the story. So…. Christian and Violet have known each other since childhood, they became close friends (and for a time even saw each other every day), then Christian and Violet slept together aka “The Disappointment” – and the following day, Christian left for the war. They then meet again a year later (yes, JUST ONE YEAR LATER) with Christian pretending to...more An okay short read with some great highlights. There was one thing that I couldn’t believe or even convince myself to just ignore and go with the story. So…. Christian and Violet have known each other since childhood, they became close friends (and for a time even saw each other every day), then Christian and Violet slept together aka “The Disappointment” – and the following day, Christian left for the war. They then meet again a year later (yes, JUST ONE YEAR LATER) with Christian pretending to be someone else and Violet didn’t recognize him at first sight – this I cannot believe. Maybe if it was 10 years later or if he had some kind of disfigurement I’d believe it, but he couldn’t have changed that much in a year that a person who has known him forever and who was been in love/crush with him for years wouldn’t recognize him right away! Actually, the changes we’re told about is that he became more fit/muscular due to the farming labor he did, he’s tan now, and his nose isn’t straight anymore because he broke it twice. He’s also speaking in a different language. I don’t know why I’m dwelling on this when I’m usually not a stickler with these fictional plot set up, but for some reason I can’t take this particular one face value and move on.

The story was interesting enough as were the H/h, but I didn’t really like either one enough to feel invested in their story. Christian, to me, didn’t act honorably towards Violet, having ruined her and left – and his excuse, although it wasn’t unscrupulous, it also wasn’t good enough or worthy of a great hero. I did appreciate the regret and guilt he felt. I like my heroes, even the beta ones, to take some control and Christian never did that – he had all the “I want to do right by you,” “I wish I could..” “I will make it up to you” declarations but he didn’t take enough action – ok, I will give him credit for what he went through to get to Spindle Cove in time, but it was Violet who took charge – she was the one who practically proposed marriage! I liked Violet a little better, but for some reason, I wasn’t taken with her as a first rate heroin either. Her complete 180 change from an obedient wallflower to a take-charge woman made my head spin and I didn’t buy it.

Unfortunately, this short story was not my cup of tea but I’m glad I read it as it gave me another glimpse of the town and characters I loved in the first book, as it stands, this was just an ok read for me.
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Jan 29, 2012 Ann aka Iftcan rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, historical, holiday-theme, magic, english-setting, short-story

Ok, first things first--I will admit to a major weakness. I will read ANYTHING with a holiday theme--western, sci-fi, fantasy, romance, real life--anything. So keep that warning firmly in mind for this review.

This is an historical romance short story. Its set in Regency England, just about the time of the first defeat of Napoleon. Its set in a series that I haven't read any of, which I'm sure would have made things a little less confusing, since it seems like the author expected some familiarity...more

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May 24, 2013 Iliada rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: wallflower, regency-georgian-victorian, novella, i-ve-loved-you-for-years, friends-to-lovers

This was a sweet novella about Violet Winterbottom who had been mentioned a couple of times in A Nigth to Surrender. Generally, I hate novellas (apart from A Matter of Class which was absolutely wonderful), and this one was as good as a novella can be, considering that the author usually does not have enought time to develop her characters and the reader ends up not caring about them.

I find it hard to review this one without spoilers, so if you mind awfully don't read further. It's nothing that'...more This was a sweet novella about Violet Winterbottom who had been mentioned a couple of times in A Nigth to Surrender. Generally, I hate novellas (apart from A Matter of Class which was absolutely wonderful), and this one was as good as a novella can be, considering that the author usually does not have enought time to develop her characters and the reader ends up not caring about them.

I find it hard to review this one without spoilers, so if you mind awfully don't read further. It's nothing that's not revealed one third through the book, but it's your decision to make.

Spoiler Alert

It was a really quick story and all the action took place over the course of one night. Violet was in love with her neighbor and childhood friend, Christopher. She believed that he hadn't even noticed her, but one night they had sex and the following day he disappeared leaving only a short note behind. The story takes place one year after that and Violet now thinks of Christopher as The Dissapointment. A stranger appears suddenly one night before Violet leaves Spindle Cove. He is wounded and falls at her feet. To cut the long story short, this stranger is Christopher and it is revealed that he was a spy, that's why he left so suddenly and without saying anything, even though he was in love with Violet.

I like the H/h and Violet has grown a backbone after what happened to her. However, Christopher eventually manages to convince her that he's in love with her and that he wants to marry her. I found the story and the romance sweet and beautiful. I have one question, though. How stupid was the hero? Really! What was he thinking, sleeping with the heroine without ever confessing that he's in love with her and then leaving her without a promise or without asking her to wait for him? I know he was a spy, but it was stupid nevertheless. He was lucky that Violet didn't hate him too much to go back to him.

Apart from that, it was really good for a novella and it's highly recommended to hard-core Spindle Cove funs!(less)

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Dec 24, 2012 Kendra rated it 5 of 5 stars

For full review including excerpt and dilogue highlight, please visit Reader's Edyn at:
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Review:

Wow! Ms. Tessa Dare has a new fan. Of that, I am certain. I find it difficult to believe that, prior to this book, I had not yet read Ms. Dare. I absolutely adore historical over all other romance genres and generally seek historical authors out to see if they are a good fit for me. Well, I only wish I had found her before now. I can’t imagine what I have been missing out on. Plus, t...more For full review including excerpt and dilogue highlight, please visit Reader's Edyn at:
http://bit.ly/TkiWpn

Review:

Wow! Ms. Tessa Dare has a new fan. Of that, I am certain. I find it difficult to believe that, prior to this book, I had not yet read Ms. Dare. I absolutely adore historical over all other romance genres and generally seek historical authors out to see if they are a good fit for me. Well, I only wish I had found her before now. I can’t imagine what I have been missing out on. Plus, this book is published by Samhain so I should have known. I have had crazy good luck with finding authors I really enjoy with this publishing company.

Violet is what you would describe as a wallflower. She literally seeks out the corners of a ball room and firmly plants herself there for the ball’s entirety. Due to her ruination a year or two ago she has taken refuge at Spindle Cove; or as others call it, Spinster Cove. After freely giving her virginity to the supposed love of her life, him walking away from her without so much as a backward glance, and fearing the possibility of a child, Spindle Cove seemed the only feasible option. But Violet and Spindle Cover ate not exactly what they seem. This Wallflower is anything buy a shrinking Violet and Spindle Cove has taught her invaluable lessons both in life and about herself. On this eve, she is bidding farewell, having been summoned home the following morning. But the appearance of a mysterious man with hauntingly uncanny similarities to her former lover tilt her world off balance and throw her head long into the middle of a sticky situation.

Like Violet, Christian is not exactly what he seems. The man from Violet’s past has been harboring several secrets of his own. Circumstances forced him to leave her the way that he did. He has been gone a long time and has this single opportunity to see her. With time quickly expiring, the question is what will he divulge and will she even be receptive to allowing him another chance. Living an altogether different life has changed Christian in many ways, but his love for Violet has never wavered. This night he has to lay everything out on the table or risk losing her forever; if he isn’t already fighting a losing battle.

I adore this couple! First of all, how can you not automatically root for the Wallflower? Seriously. I absolutely love seeing someone like Violet find her HEA! Violet and Christian have a special connection both physically and intellectually. Their attraction, at least on Christian’s side, took a long time to bloom but once it did the sparks flew and their souls were forever bonded. At first I was skeptical of Christian and his motives and was not quite convinced that he was the same man Violet loved. But before too long, I was on his side and hoping that he succeed in convincing her of his devotion to her. And Christian is no fool. He realizes too that he is asking a lot of Violet. Not wanting to entertain the possibility of rejection, his fear of losing her completely continues to niggle in the back of his head – and his heart.

The thing I love about Wallflowers is that they are almost never the shy, simpering misses that people take them for. Such is the case with Violet. Unsure of her feelings initially, once she commits, there is no stopping her. A force to be reckoned with, even Christian is surprised by her actions. Intrigue, espionage, mystery, longing, and passion all run heavily within this novella from the very beginning. Never a dull moment, the reader is sure to be hooked immediately; well and truly sucked into the life of these fascinating characters. If you haven’t read the Spindle Cover series before, this would be a great way to whet the appetite. You are guaranteed to want to read more once given a taste provided by this little gem. Historical romance lovers, if you haven’t read Ms. Dare, you are missing out. And if you have, you know exactly what I am talking about. *nods*

(eBook copy won in a Twitter contest courtesy of author Courtney Milan. This review is my honest opinion of the story.)
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Dec 15, 2011 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: anthologies-novellas-short-stories, european-historical, regency-era, romance, historical, 4-stars, autobuy-authors, ebooks, books-i-own

Originally posted on my blog: http://feministfairytalereviews.blogs...

Once Upon a Winter's Eve is a historical romance novella that is part of Tessa Dare's Spindle Cove series. Spindle Cove is a small seaside village along the English Channel that has become a haven for young ladies with "problems". These issues range from illness to impending spinsterhood to scandal. The village is a place for these ladies to have a peaceful existence without the demands of society.

Violet Winterbottom is one...more Originally posted on my blog: http://feministfairytalereviews.blogs...

Once Upon a Winter's Eve is a historical romance novella that is part of Tessa Dare's Spindle Cove series. Spindle Cove is a small seaside village along the English Channel that has become a haven for young ladies with "problems". These issues range from illness to impending spinsterhood to scandal. The village is a place for these ladies to have a peaceful existence without the demands of society.

Violet Winterbottom is one of the "unfortunate" young ladies who has been residing at Spindle Cove for almost a year. An ill-advised incident forced her to retire temporarily from society, but her family is now forcing her to return to London. I really enjoyed reading about Violet. She is not a typical wallflower due to her appearance and accomplishments, but still remains shy around strangers. I thought this was an interesting quirk to her character. Violet is very intelligent and courageous when she needs to be, but there is always a sense of vulnerability as well.

I can't go into too much detail about the hero in this novella because a decent amount of the plot deals with his true identity. I will say that, while he was sexy and dangerous, I never completely warmed up to him. There were definite moments where I felt sorry for him and his situation, but there were other things that just irked me. His past actions were difficult to forgive and I'm not a hundred percent sure whether he was properly redeemed or not.

Despite my hesitations about the hero, I did enjoy reading the love story. There was a lot of sexual tension that results in some pretty hot scenes later in the novella. The romance was sweet and full of cute moments. The plot was perfectly suited for a story this length which is not always the case in the world of novellas. I also liked the sense of danger that I felt throughout my reading. The conflict is very real and balanced well with the romance. The only other issue I had with the story, besides my opinions on the hero, was the ending. It felt like it was a little rushed and anticlimatic especially with all the buildup in the earlier parts.

Overall, it was an entertaining read and a sweet holiday story! I think it would serve as a nice introduction to Ms. Dare's writing and this series. Personally, I can't wait to read A Week to be Wicked and spend more time with the fascinating ladies of Spindle Cove!

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Dec 01, 2011 Jess the Romanceaholic rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: won-in-a-contest, short-story-or-novella, historical, estranged-lovers-or-marriage, family-issues, spy, 2011-read, fallen-woman, selfish-hero, steam-level-steamy, kindle-lendable

This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.com.

Expected Release Date: November 15, 2011
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Imprint: N/A
Author’s Website: http://tessadare.com/
My Source for This Book: Won in a Contest
Part of a Series: Yes, “A Spindle Cove Novella”/Spindle Cove 1.5
Series Best Read In Order: Works well as a standalone
Steam Level: Steamy

Despite my dislike for the hero (and my firm belief that he needed a good horsewhipping), this was an overall enjoyable r...more

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Dec 03, 2011 Gaby rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2011, romance, christmas, historical, adult

Posted at Oh My Books!

I loved A Night to Surrender, so when I discovered there was a Christmas novella from the Spindle Cove series, I couldn't wait to read it.

It doesn't matter if you haven't read the first book, but of course you will enjoy it better if you do. This time it's the story of Violet Winterbottom. She's very quiet and reserved, and prefer to suffer her heartbreak alone...until the day a stranger comes looking for her at the Christmas ball.

He's hurt, weak and chilled, and apparently...more

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Apr 29, 2013 Ltlmer2 rated it 4 of 5 stars

I quite enjoyed this story and am finding Ms. Dare to be advancing to one of my favorite authors right now. This one is a novella tucked within the Spindle Cove series and, as such, is a quicker and not as involved read---though for a shorter story it works since you enter the tale with the characters already having a past between them.

I do have to say though, that I hate when covers are wrong. The only thing remotely correct to the book about that dress is that it is green (she wears a green s...more

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Dec 13, 2011 Leslie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebook, historical, keepers, own, romance, reviewed

After reading and loving the first book in this series, when I read Tracy's review for this one, I knew I had to read this novella. We head back to Spindle Cove during which an uninvited guest crashes the officer's ball. He's certainly not dress for the ball and turns the village of Spindle Cove upside down with talk of spies and invasions.

Violet Winterbottom has been hiding out in Spindle Cove but her seclusion is about to end when she returns to her family and London society. The night before...more

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Feb 26, 2012 Evie rated it 4 of 5 stars

After having her heart broken by the boy next door, Violet flees to Spindle Cove; otherwise known as "Spinster Cove". There, not only does her heart heal but she also learns there is more to her and to life, for that matter, than meets the eye.

During her last night at Spindle Cove, the last person she expects to see shows up, literally at her feet.

Christian hasn't forgotten Violet, it irks him having left her in the way he did. He hopes she finds it in her heart to forgive him. In the same vei...more After having her heart broken by the boy next door, Violet flees to Spindle Cove; otherwise known as "Spinster Cove". There, not only does her heart heal but she also learns there is more to her and to life, for that matter, than meets the eye.

During her last night at Spindle Cove, the last person she expects to see shows up, literally at her feet.

Christian hasn't forgotten Violet, it irks him having left her in the way he did. He hopes she finds it in her heart to forgive him. In the same vein as he hopes she's still available.

I can't go into much more because I'd spoil it. I loved that their secret agreement worked out the way it did (nope I can't say what that is because if I did I'd be telling the end). I thought this was a nice sequel to A Night to Surrender. For anyone who's read the first book in the series, and wants to know what happens after Susana and Bram, this is a good continuation to that story and an excellent transition to A Week to be Wicked.

This review is also found at: http://inluvwithromance.blogspot.com/

Overview:

Some wallflowers bloom at night...

A Spindle Cove Novella

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's feet. His coarse attire and near-criminal good looks would put any sensible young lady on her guard. He's wet, chilled, bleeding, and speaking in an unfamiliar tongue.

Only Violet understands him. And she knows he's not what he seems.

She has one night to draw forth the secrets of this dangerously handsome rogue. Is he a smuggler? A fugitive? An enemy spy? She needs answers by sunrise, but her captive would rather seduce than confess. To learn his secrets, Violet must reveal hers—and open herself to adventure, passion, and the unthinkable... Love.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Product Warnings
The heroine packs a pistol, the hero curses in multiple languages, and together they steam up a cold winter’s night.(less)

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Dec 06, 2011 Sophia (FV) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Violet Winterbottom came to Spindlecove after she was abandoned by a man with whom she’d been in love with. He left her abruptly after she’d given herself to him. Now, she only refers to him as “The Disappointment.” Living at Spindle Cove she is considered a wallflower. One evening, during an officers ball, a beaten and bloodied stranger bursts in falls at her feet. Even more suspicious, the language he speaks is unknown but Violet is fluent in many languages and so she steps up as the interpret...more

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About Tessa Dare

Note: Tessa has a Goodreads group! All readers welcome.

Tessa Dare is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of ten historical romance novels and four novellas. Her books have won numerous accolades, including Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA® award and multiple RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice Awards. Booklist magazine named her one of the “new stars of historical romanc...more

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Quotes from Once Upon a Winter's Eve

“Language was a vast, complicated tapestry. The key to communication was finding a common thread.” — 4 people liked it

“Violet tried the door latch. Locked, of course. Wordlessly, she pulled a hairpin from her wind-mussed chignon and handed it to him. He stared at it. “What makes you think I know how to pick locks?” he whispered. “Just because I’m a spy?” “No. Because you were forever stealing pocket money from your father’s top desk drawer.” Bloody hell. She truly had been paying attention.” — 2 people liked it

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Once Upon a Winter's Eve (Spindle Cove #1.5)

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