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Five Golden Rings: A Christmas Collection
The holidays are a time for wishes, magic and, of course, love. Celebrate the season with this delightful collection of Christmas tales.
What better way for Connor Talbot, Earl of Redfirn, to spend the holidays than convincing Leonora Compton that the only match she needs to make is with him!
The Duke of Ashton has had three years to plan for his perfect Christmas present—the Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons as his wife. Now, all he has to do is convince the reluctant lady . . .
Phin Baldwin does not believe in Christmas magic . . . until the clever and beautiful Ginny Overton gets it into her head to show him how wonderful it can be when wishes come true.
Just returned from the Crusades, marriage is the last thing on Sir Caerwyn’s mind. But will he be able to resist Lady Nia, the thief of his boyhood heart, when she tempts him yet again?
Responsible Ethan Weatherstone is determined to save Penelope Rutledge—and her reputation—from her silly scheme, but can he save himself from the temptation of her lips?
What better way for Connor Talbot, Earl of Redfirn, to spend the holidays than convincing Leonora Compton that the only match she needs to make is with him!
The Duke of Ashton has had three years to plan for his perfect Christmas present—the Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons as his wife. Now, all he has to do is convince the reluctant lady . . .
Phin Baldwin does not believe in Christmas magic . . . until the clever and beautiful Ginny Overton gets it into her head to show him how wonderful it can be when wishes come true.
Just returned from the Crusades, marriage is the last thing on Sir Caerwyn’s mind. But will he be able to resist Lady Nia, the thief of his boyhood heart, when she tempts him yet again?
Responsible Ethan Weatherstone is determined to save Penelope Rutledge—and her reputation—from her silly scheme, but can he save himself from the temptation of her lips?
445 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 11, 2012
54 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Barnes
67 books1,754 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Sophie Barnes writes historical romance novels in which the characters break away from social expectations in their quest for happiness and love. Having written for Avon, an imprint of Harper Collins, her books have been published internationally in eight languages. With a fondness for travel, Sophie has lived in six countries, on three continents, and speaks English, Danish, French, Spanish, and Romanian with varying degrees of fluency. Ever the romantic, she married the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
When she’s not busy dreaming up her next swoon worthy romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, baking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading.
For all the latest releases, promotions, and exclusive story updates, subscribe to Sophie Barnes’ newsletter today: www.sophiebarnes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 15, 2012
Five Golden Rings is a collection of short love stories made all the more special for their Christmastime magic. I enjoyed these sweet, steamy, romantic tales, each a delightful read.
Mistletoe Magic by Sophie Barnes: What better way for Connor Talbot, Earl of Redfirn, to spend the holidays than convincing Leonora Compton that the only match she needs to make is with him!
***This is my first taste of Sophie Barnes’ writing and I enjoyed it. It was sweet, steamy, funny… a charming holiday tale!His Perfect Gift by Karen Erickson: The Duke of Ashton has had three years to plan for his perfect Christmas present—the Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons as his wife. Now, all he has to do is convince the reluctant lady …
***Oh, this was such a fun story! Again, Karen Erickson is a new-to-me author and I enjoyed her writing. Sexy, romantic… truly entertaining!War of the Magi by Rena Gregory: Phin Baldwin does not believe in Christmas magic … until the clever and beautiful Ginny Overton gets it into her head to show him how wonderful it can be when wishes come true.
***This story has a decidedly Christmas feel to it and I loved it! A turn of the century, old west story that left me with a smile on my face and a contended sigh in my heart! Rena Gregory is an author whose writing I can’t wait to read more of!Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones: Just returned from the Crusades, marriage is the last thing on Sir Caerwyn's mind. But will he be able to resist Lady Nia, the thief of his boyhood heart, when she tempts him yet again?
***I absolutely adore medieval era stories and this one was such a great read. Short, entertaining, and sexy, Sandra Jones knows how to tell a story!Tempting Mr. Weatherstone by Vivienne Lorret: Responsible Ethan Weatherstone is determined to save Penelope Rutledge—and her reputation—from her silly scheme, but can he save himself from the temptation of her lips?
***I loved this one! What a sweet "friends to lovers" tale. Emotional, sweet, sexy... another great addition to this anthology, and I can add Vivienne Lorret to my list of new-to-me authors to read more of in the New Year!The bottom line: Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year and so I devote a good deal of my reading time during December to Christmas themed books. I often find anthologies will have at least one story that doesn't work for me, but this delightful Christmas collection of five stories was a joy to read, start to finish! Each and every story, in some way, touched me and brought to my heart that magical feeling of Christmas.
My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this wonderful collection for review. It was such a pleasure!
ETA: At the time of this posting, the ebook is available at Kobo, Barnes and Noble and Amazon for only .99 cents!
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December 12, 2012
Courtesy of HarperCollins(Avon) through Edelweiss in exchange of an honest review.
Christmas tales mixed with love? What a wonderful way to bring this season and one of my favorite genre's together! Five Golden Rings was an outstanding collection of five holiday stories. Each one holding their own treasure in what makes them great. Overall I found the writing beautiful and delightful, from authors that were new to me but I was very eager to read their little stories. I devoured this book as fast as I could.
My favorite of them all had to be the story of Caerwyn and Lady Nia, it was beautiful as well as emotional with a wonderful storyline that had me rooting for them. After Nia steals Caerwyn's heart she also manages to hurt him. Years later when her father sets up a Christmas tournament in hopes of marrying off his daughters, he finds himself letting Nia into his heart again. As long as he could put away his past. I found the story emotional and absolutely loved it! Yes there was even a part that left my heart aching for them.
The other story that I found wonderful was of Ethan and Penelope. Two childhood friends, both in love with each other, both are too scared to submit to their feelings in fear of losing the other. Of course Lady Penelope is bored of the same daily routine and wants some excitement and adventure in her life, will Ethan finally be the one to let her? There where parts that made me want to scream simply in hopes it would push the two together faster, it was very endearing.
And of course the story of Phin and Ginny and Christmas wishes with miracles. I loved this one because Ginny was just the right kind of trouble Phin needed in his life. After inheriting a three small figurines that are suppose to bring wishes to the person who won them for Christmas, Phin acknowledges to Ginny that he does not believe in wishes. Ginny is just the type of person that might make him believe in them. She is very stubborn, and takes actions into her own hands. It was very heartwarming.
This book was definitely a pleasant surprise. I had enjoyed each and every story in it's own way. I loved the characters, the relationships. Everyone had their own adventure. It was also a great way to be introduced to authors that are particularly new to me. A great holiday read!
Christmas tales mixed with love? What a wonderful way to bring this season and one of my favorite genre's together! Five Golden Rings was an outstanding collection of five holiday stories. Each one holding their own treasure in what makes them great. Overall I found the writing beautiful and delightful, from authors that were new to me but I was very eager to read their little stories. I devoured this book as fast as I could.
My favorite of them all had to be the story of Caerwyn and Lady Nia, it was beautiful as well as emotional with a wonderful storyline that had me rooting for them. After Nia steals Caerwyn's heart she also manages to hurt him. Years later when her father sets up a Christmas tournament in hopes of marrying off his daughters, he finds himself letting Nia into his heart again. As long as he could put away his past. I found the story emotional and absolutely loved it! Yes there was even a part that left my heart aching for them.
The other story that I found wonderful was of Ethan and Penelope. Two childhood friends, both in love with each other, both are too scared to submit to their feelings in fear of losing the other. Of course Lady Penelope is bored of the same daily routine and wants some excitement and adventure in her life, will Ethan finally be the one to let her? There where parts that made me want to scream simply in hopes it would push the two together faster, it was very endearing.
And of course the story of Phin and Ginny and Christmas wishes with miracles. I loved this one because Ginny was just the right kind of trouble Phin needed in his life. After inheriting a three small figurines that are suppose to bring wishes to the person who won them for Christmas, Phin acknowledges to Ginny that he does not believe in wishes. Ginny is just the type of person that might make him believe in them. She is very stubborn, and takes actions into her own hands. It was very heartwarming.
This book was definitely a pleasant surprise. I had enjoyed each and every story in it's own way. I loved the characters, the relationships. Everyone had their own adventure. It was also a great way to be introduced to authors that are particularly new to me. A great holiday read!
November 28, 2012
I had a hard time with Sophie's story because I didn't really like Leonora in the beginning. She seemed a little snobbish, however as the story progressed her character became better. My favorite story was by Rena Gregory about Ginny and Phin. They were an adorable, contentious couple. The spirit of Christmas was very much evident in their story.
June 5, 2014
PLEASANTLY SURPRISED
This is a collection of novellas about romance and the Christmas season. I picked this up, because I had just finished a book by Vivienne Lorret. I, quite frankly, wanted more of her writing. I am not a novella fan. I usually am left feeling let down that the story is so simple and the characters undeveloped, but this book was a pleasant surprise. Four out of the five novellas were excellent or very good! Following is a breakdown of my thoughts:
"Mistletoe Magic" by Sophie Barnes. 4 Stars, Regency
Connor Talbot, the Earl of Redfirn, has lost a bet, so must find a suitable bride for a particular young man. Leonora Compton is attempting to thwart his success. Barnes is an excellent writer, giving us a well-defined plot and rich first and second tier characters. There is humor and just the right amount of conflict.
"His Perfect Gift" by Karen Erickson, 3 Stars, Regency
Three years ago, the Duke of Ashton was a second son, not expected to ever receive the title of Duke. He was in love with Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons and offered for her. She rejected him, but he still carries a torch for her. This book is an example of why I do not usually pick up novellas. The plot was mundane. The characters not developed enough for one to be invested in their motivations. There was nothing new here. The author took us through all the usual Regency settings, with all the usual conversations. Not a bad book, the author writes well. If this was the first Regency the reader had read, one might rate it higher.
"War of the Magi" by Rena Gregory, 5 Stars, 1908 Western
Phin Baldwin is entrusted by the local church with a talisman of the three wisemen. Christmas tradition in this small town in the Anmerican West has it that if you put three wishes on paper in the hands of the wisemen, the wishes will come true. Phin does not believe in miracles. Ginny Overton does not think that Phin deserves the gift, because of his lack of faith, so she decides to rectify the situation, and sparks fly. The sparks start out as anger and frustration, but explode into passion and romance. I am definitely in the market for more from this author. Her writing is riveting. The plot is original. The whole town of characters are fun and engaging. How the author accomplishes all this in so few pages is a miracle in and of itself. This novella is everything a Christmas story should be. It is filled with humor, faith, hope, generosity, love, and romance. The HEA in this novella is excellent. I will be rereading this beautiful, touching story for many Christmases to come. And that is high praise for me, because I seldom re-read anything. This story alone is worth triple the price of this book. Actually, the story and its lesson is priceless.
"Her Christmas Knight" by Sandra Jones, 4 Stars, Medieval
Sir Caerwyn has just returned from the Crusades with his brother only to have to watch his father die and to protect his brother, attend a tournament at a neighboring estate. The tournament is held to draw suitors for the neighbor's two daughters. The weary knight has no interest in either daughter. After all, he has seen first hand how faithless they both can be. I usually have no interest in medieval romance unless it is written by Julie Garwood, and since she stopped writing them years ago, I despaired of ever reading another one. However, this author might change my mind. Jones kept the focus on the H and h, and, while keeping her genre in mind, did not make the trappings of the tournament and the medieval traditions the central focus, as many writers of this category often do. The story had interesting characters, a mystery that kept one guessing, and a love that inspired.
"Tempting Mr. Featherstone" by Vivienne Lorrett, 4 Stars, Regency
Penelope Rutledge and Ethan Weatherstone have been best friends since childhood. Their families are so close that they have dinner together four nights of every week. Penelope has grown tired of the sameness in her life. She wants an adventure, Ethan loves and depends on the structure of his life and he is concerned about his best friend's new restlessness. This author is what drew me to this book. She is an excellent writer. Her characters are always fresh and engaging. She knows how to drive a plot and understands romance. She is one of my new favorite authors.
This whole book is highly recommended. It will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit no matter what time of the year.
This is a collection of novellas about romance and the Christmas season. I picked this up, because I had just finished a book by Vivienne Lorret. I, quite frankly, wanted more of her writing. I am not a novella fan. I usually am left feeling let down that the story is so simple and the characters undeveloped, but this book was a pleasant surprise. Four out of the five novellas were excellent or very good! Following is a breakdown of my thoughts:
"Mistletoe Magic" by Sophie Barnes. 4 Stars, Regency
Connor Talbot, the Earl of Redfirn, has lost a bet, so must find a suitable bride for a particular young man. Leonora Compton is attempting to thwart his success. Barnes is an excellent writer, giving us a well-defined plot and rich first and second tier characters. There is humor and just the right amount of conflict.
"His Perfect Gift" by Karen Erickson, 3 Stars, Regency
Three years ago, the Duke of Ashton was a second son, not expected to ever receive the title of Duke. He was in love with Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons and offered for her. She rejected him, but he still carries a torch for her. This book is an example of why I do not usually pick up novellas. The plot was mundane. The characters not developed enough for one to be invested in their motivations. There was nothing new here. The author took us through all the usual Regency settings, with all the usual conversations. Not a bad book, the author writes well. If this was the first Regency the reader had read, one might rate it higher.
"War of the Magi" by Rena Gregory, 5 Stars, 1908 Western
Phin Baldwin is entrusted by the local church with a talisman of the three wisemen. Christmas tradition in this small town in the Anmerican West has it that if you put three wishes on paper in the hands of the wisemen, the wishes will come true. Phin does not believe in miracles. Ginny Overton does not think that Phin deserves the gift, because of his lack of faith, so she decides to rectify the situation, and sparks fly. The sparks start out as anger and frustration, but explode into passion and romance. I am definitely in the market for more from this author. Her writing is riveting. The plot is original. The whole town of characters are fun and engaging. How the author accomplishes all this in so few pages is a miracle in and of itself. This novella is everything a Christmas story should be. It is filled with humor, faith, hope, generosity, love, and romance. The HEA in this novella is excellent. I will be rereading this beautiful, touching story for many Christmases to come. And that is high praise for me, because I seldom re-read anything. This story alone is worth triple the price of this book. Actually, the story and its lesson is priceless.
"Her Christmas Knight" by Sandra Jones, 4 Stars, Medieval
Sir Caerwyn has just returned from the Crusades with his brother only to have to watch his father die and to protect his brother, attend a tournament at a neighboring estate. The tournament is held to draw suitors for the neighbor's two daughters. The weary knight has no interest in either daughter. After all, he has seen first hand how faithless they both can be. I usually have no interest in medieval romance unless it is written by Julie Garwood, and since she stopped writing them years ago, I despaired of ever reading another one. However, this author might change my mind. Jones kept the focus on the H and h, and, while keeping her genre in mind, did not make the trappings of the tournament and the medieval traditions the central focus, as many writers of this category often do. The story had interesting characters, a mystery that kept one guessing, and a love that inspired.
"Tempting Mr. Featherstone" by Vivienne Lorrett, 4 Stars, Regency
Penelope Rutledge and Ethan Weatherstone have been best friends since childhood. Their families are so close that they have dinner together four nights of every week. Penelope has grown tired of the sameness in her life. She wants an adventure, Ethan loves and depends on the structure of his life and he is concerned about his best friend's new restlessness. This author is what drew me to this book. She is an excellent writer. Her characters are always fresh and engaging. She knows how to drive a plot and understands romance. She is one of my new favorite authors.
This whole book is highly recommended. It will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit no matter what time of the year.
April 11, 2015
3 1/2 stars overall..
Mistletoe Magic by Sophie Barnes
My favorite lines in this whole book, “Was the man not aware of his own height? Surly, he must know that a shorter woman would never work for him. After all, there were the laws of physics to consider, and some things simply weren’t possible.” I think this same sort of thing when I read an author who matched a 6 and a half foot tall hero with a heroine that’s 5’2”… There’s just not things that can be done during sex and the the author writes it like both people are both 6 feet tall. It’s absolutely hysterical to picture.
I don’t know that I liked either Connor or Nora all that much. They were both rather shallow in their thinking of Grenly and Amy. It kind of got on my nerves, especially Nora’s attitude. I know they both came around but that didn’t happen until the last few pages of the book.
And I wasn’t crazy about the sex either. Oh, I like sex in my books but I like something that leads up to it. An ounce of desire, some feeling of want, something. But there was nothing! Just sex, suddenly.
I read The Scandal in Kissing an Heir and I liked it a lot but this one I didn’t. It was OK but that’s about it. 3 stars.
His Perfect Gift by Karen Erickson
OK, this one was much better than the last. Lots more sexual tension. I really liked Henry and Eleanor. I liked Olivia, she was sweet. But I didn’t like Penelope, what a selfish little witch she was. I didn’t like Lady Cochrane, Eleanor’s mother, either. What a greedy biotch she was. And, even though we never even met him, I hated Eleanor’s father, a drunken gambler.
Anyway, this was a really good story but I can’t see myself reading anything else from this author. I looked at 5 of her books and they were all erotic and I don’t read erotic books. However, she is a good writer. 4 stars
War of the Magi by Rena Gregory
Two stories with sex in them then an almost Christian story? Really? This is why I hate books with several different authors. I think I skimmed more pages than I read, trying to find some kind of passion or some kind of feeling from Phin and Ginny, other than anger. But I found nothing. This story might have been good for some of you but for me it just kinda’ sucked. 2 stars
Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones
This was a good story. A little sexual tension and a little angst. But it went back a little too far for me. I think it was the 1300 century and that’s too long ago. I did like the players: Caerwyn (however the hell you say that) and Nia and Padrig (a really crazy name) and Serena (she played the unlikable sister very well) and Maddoc (he was a douchbag.) I’ll look and see what else this author has but if they are in this time period I can’t see myself reading anything else by her. 4 stars
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone by Vivienne Lorret
Yeah, I can see why Penelope thought Ethan’s name should be Ethan Same Weatherstone. He was just a mess when he thought things would change and no longer be the same. But, almost losing her got him out of that “sameness” attitude real fast.
This was a pretty good story but no sexual tension, no sex, so I can’t see myself reading this author either. For those who want no swearing and no sex this would be the novella for you. 3 stars
Mistletoe Magic by Sophie Barnes
My favorite lines in this whole book, “Was the man not aware of his own height? Surly, he must know that a shorter woman would never work for him. After all, there were the laws of physics to consider, and some things simply weren’t possible.” I think this same sort of thing when I read an author who matched a 6 and a half foot tall hero with a heroine that’s 5’2”… There’s just not things that can be done during sex and the the author writes it like both people are both 6 feet tall. It’s absolutely hysterical to picture.
I don’t know that I liked either Connor or Nora all that much. They were both rather shallow in their thinking of Grenly and Amy. It kind of got on my nerves, especially Nora’s attitude. I know they both came around but that didn’t happen until the last few pages of the book.
And I wasn’t crazy about the sex either. Oh, I like sex in my books but I like something that leads up to it. An ounce of desire, some feeling of want, something. But there was nothing! Just sex, suddenly.
I read The Scandal in Kissing an Heir and I liked it a lot but this one I didn’t. It was OK but that’s about it. 3 stars.
His Perfect Gift by Karen Erickson
OK, this one was much better than the last. Lots more sexual tension. I really liked Henry and Eleanor. I liked Olivia, she was sweet. But I didn’t like Penelope, what a selfish little witch she was. I didn’t like Lady Cochrane, Eleanor’s mother, either. What a greedy biotch she was. And, even though we never even met him, I hated Eleanor’s father, a drunken gambler.
Anyway, this was a really good story but I can’t see myself reading anything else from this author. I looked at 5 of her books and they were all erotic and I don’t read erotic books. However, she is a good writer. 4 stars
War of the Magi by Rena Gregory
Two stories with sex in them then an almost Christian story? Really? This is why I hate books with several different authors. I think I skimmed more pages than I read, trying to find some kind of passion or some kind of feeling from Phin and Ginny, other than anger. But I found nothing. This story might have been good for some of you but for me it just kinda’ sucked. 2 stars
Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones
This was a good story. A little sexual tension and a little angst. But it went back a little too far for me. I think it was the 1300 century and that’s too long ago. I did like the players: Caerwyn (however the hell you say that) and Nia and Padrig (a really crazy name) and Serena (she played the unlikable sister very well) and Maddoc (he was a douchbag.) I’ll look and see what else this author has but if they are in this time period I can’t see myself reading anything else by her. 4 stars
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone by Vivienne Lorret
Yeah, I can see why Penelope thought Ethan’s name should be Ethan Same Weatherstone. He was just a mess when he thought things would change and no longer be the same. But, almost losing her got him out of that “sameness” attitude real fast.
This was a pretty good story but no sexual tension, no sex, so I can’t see myself reading this author either. For those who want no swearing and no sex this would be the novella for you. 3 stars
January 7, 2013
Five Golden Rings...
By Codi Gary
On Dec 17, 2012
I started Five Golden Rings several days ago and have finished the first two novellas by Sophie Barnes and Karen Erickson, which were funny, engaging and had so many great phrases I smiled the whole way through. Sophie Barnes plot was something new and inventive, a secret societyof women who help the"Wallflowers, bluestockings, and such women who would make excellent wives if someone would only take them under their wing."That's a quote from the heroine's mentor, The Duchess of Arbergail who for some reason makes me picture Julie Andrews. :-) Karen Erickson's heroine, Eleanor, has a family that had me grinning the whole time ( I comefrom a large family and had two sisters still living at home when I was a kid. The bickering never ended.Even my mother andgrandmother were not immune to the nasty habit. One memorable family trip, while my grandmother, mother, and I started sparring not ten minutes into our trip, I sarcastically said, "Gee I love these family outings." It broke the ice and became a way to break throughall the sniping at future family events and on long trips in cars.) I am going to"borrow" several of the comments made to the youngest sister, Penelope, to say to my children when they are naughty. :-) I've started the third novella, War of the Magi by Rena Gregory, and will update this blog as I finish them all. I love Anthologies like this because it gives you a chance to sample several new authors and fall in love with their work!
Blog Update for War of the Maji by Rena Gregory-
Ms. Gregory's debut novella had such a great story, bittersweet through out with a lovely touch of humor. Ginny goes from a quiet lamb to a tiger when Phin doesn't take their town's Christmas tradition seriously and I love how the love story builds slowly and sweetly. The whole message of kindness for others is beautiful and I look forward to reading more from Ms. Gregory!
Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones was a delightful surprise! I love to read romance, from all time periods and Five Golden Rings has been such a fun collection. So far regency,
medieval, and early 1900's have been the novella's settings and I find it refreshing. I always love stories about young lovers torn apart by misunderstanding who reunite years later. My favorite character though, is the complicated Serena, and although I wont give away anything, I like the twist Ms. Jones delivers that shows us she's not as cold as you think.
"She possessed every single heart beat and the space in between." Amazing line from Vivienne Lorret's Tempting Mr. Weatherstone. In most books of a romantic nature, the scene where the hero realizes his deep love for his heroine is my favorite part of the story and she wrote the scene beautifully. I loved the contrast between the two, the neat and orderly Ethan and the dreamy, adventerous Penelope and like Penelope, I wanted to mush Ethan's cravat.
Brava ladies! Excellent novellas all and I can't wait to read more from you!
February 9, 2016
This collection of short stories was an excellent way for me to get acquainted with some of the authors I’ve never read before, such as Rena Gregory, Vivienne Lorret and Sandra Jones. Sophie Barnes and Karen Erickson are somewhat familiar to me as I read only a handful of their novels, but I’ve been very impressed with both so far.
In “Mistletoe Magic” by Sophie Barnes you’ll find a pair of matchmakers in hero and heroine who’ll make you laugh out loud with the antics they come up with to match the ‘unsuspecting’ duo. Loved it!
Karen Erickson’s “His Perfect Gift” made me root for this Duke and his heroine. I loved the story and the second characters of this story were also fun to read about. Loved it!
“War of the Magi” by Rena Gregory gave us a hero that needed someone like the heroine to point him in a right direction and show him the joy of the season. Cute and sweet, with some interesting characters on the side. Liked it!
In “Her Christmas Knight” by Sandra Jones I was wishing for a Knight of my own! If you love stories with a second chances, this one’s a must then. It will make your eyes mist and the end will leave you satisfied and warm all over. Loved it!
Vivienne Lorret’s story “Tempting Mr. Weatherstone” brings us two childhood friends who finally find courage to admit love for each other, but the road to it is fun-filled with adventure our heroine is craving for. Liked it!
‘Five Golden Rings’ was a wonderful collection of fun, entertaining and character driven short holiday stories. Overall I found the writing very good and each story unique and fun. A great holiday read!
In “Mistletoe Magic” by Sophie Barnes you’ll find a pair of matchmakers in hero and heroine who’ll make you laugh out loud with the antics they come up with to match the ‘unsuspecting’ duo. Loved it!
Karen Erickson’s “His Perfect Gift” made me root for this Duke and his heroine. I loved the story and the second characters of this story were also fun to read about. Loved it!
“War of the Magi” by Rena Gregory gave us a hero that needed someone like the heroine to point him in a right direction and show him the joy of the season. Cute and sweet, with some interesting characters on the side. Liked it!
In “Her Christmas Knight” by Sandra Jones I was wishing for a Knight of my own! If you love stories with a second chances, this one’s a must then. It will make your eyes mist and the end will leave you satisfied and warm all over. Loved it!
Vivienne Lorret’s story “Tempting Mr. Weatherstone” brings us two childhood friends who finally find courage to admit love for each other, but the road to it is fun-filled with adventure our heroine is craving for. Liked it!
‘Five Golden Rings’ was a wonderful collection of fun, entertaining and character driven short holiday stories. Overall I found the writing very good and each story unique and fun. A great holiday read!
March 2, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed each of the stories in this book. It's a great way to start getting in the Christmas mood as well! I'm a massive romance fan, so this was a perfect introduction to five authors who were new to me as well!
My favourite was probably Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones, the story of Nia and Caerwyn. I loved how after everything they'd been through and all the misunderstandings, they still loved each other so much.
All of the stories were individually brilliant. I liked that there was a bit of a mix in the time periods they were set in, it was nice to have a bit of regency and then medieval :)
Overall, a great collection of stories, perfect for the holiday season! I definitely recomment it :)
My favourite was probably Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones, the story of Nia and Caerwyn. I loved how after everything they'd been through and all the misunderstandings, they still loved each other so much.
All of the stories were individually brilliant. I liked that there was a bit of a mix in the time periods they were set in, it was nice to have a bit of regency and then medieval :)
Overall, a great collection of stories, perfect for the holiday season! I definitely recomment it :)
October 16, 2014
I loved the story of Caerwyn and Nia. Their complex back story and potential for the future had me cheering in the couple's favor from the get-go. Truth be told, I read Her Christmas Knight twice. Really looking forward to reading more of Sandra Jones's work.
December 14, 2020
I liked the first two stories. I hated the 3rd one with Phin. He was so childish and really irredeemable to me. We were told they spent time together and fell in love, but we weren’t shown. Her reasons for falling in love with him weren’t shown, so it felt disingenuous and hollow. I never warmed to the jerk hero. I had already read the last story and enjoyed it. I didn’t reread It. I skipped the medieval story. It’s starts out by telling us she was his fist love and first kiss and she betrayed him. Nope.
January 18, 2018
The reason I gave this 5 stars is because I loved the story by Rena Gregory! I wish she would write more! The story of Ginny and Phin truly shows the spirit of Christmas and it was wonderfully written!
April 26, 2020
Only Vivian Lorret's short story saved this book from going into the recycle bin. I appreciate it's hard to get a good romance in novella form given the restrictions; but this collection just fell far short of the target for me. Good anthologies are possible, I know because I've read them!
January 1, 2020
Really enjoyed all the stories.
August 8, 2020
Usually feel that novellas are too short. The stories by Rena Gregory and Vivienne Lorrett are the true 3 stars in this collection.
December 24, 2022
Like any collection, some stories are good and some are bad.
December 21, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up for the first story
March 10, 2024
Five stories and only three were any good. #4 was stupid and #5 I had already read.
August 26, 2014
I will, as normal, review each story separately then the collection as a whole.
"Mistletoe Magic" by Sophie Barnes
What better way for Connor Talbot, Earl of Redfirn to spend the holidays than convincing Leonora Compton that the only match she needs to make is with him!
This a cute story--Lenora and Redfirn are at cross purposes in regards to the charges they are trying to marry off, so it makes for some funny moments. I'm not wholly convinced by the romance though, Lenora is more understandable then Redfirn who seems to just suddenly decide 'This chit ain't half bad!'.
"His Perfect Gift" by Karen Erickson
The Duke of Ashton has had three years to plan for his perfect Christmas present-the Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons as his wife. Now, all he has to do is convince the reluctant lady…
I liked this story far more. I feel bad for Ashton since he's getting one hell of a mother-in-law, but he seems happy enough. I thought when everything was finally laid out between Eleanor and Ashton, it was done well, but Erickson's inclusion of the younger brother's romantic foibles went nowhere really, so I'm not entirely sure why they were included.
"War of the Magi" by Rena Gregory
Phin Baldwin does not believe in Christmas magic….until the clever and beautiful Ginny Overton gets it into her head to show him how wonderful it can be when wishes come true.
This was an amusing story that had a couple surprises. This another story with the hero has a sudden epiphany that is largely told to us, not shown. I liked Ginny, her loyalty to her neighbors and father did her credit and her clever ruse certainly made for a great way to bring holiday cheer!
"Her Christmas Knight" by Sandra Jones
Just returned from the Crusades, marriage is the last thing on Sir Caerwyn’s mind. But will he be able to resist Lady Nia, the thief of his boyhood heart, when she tempts him yet again?
Unfortunately this one wasn't for me. I'm not fond of medieval set romances and had a hard time really getting into the story as a result (which isn't to say Jones can't write, just...wrong genre for me.)
"Tempting Mr. Weatherstone" by Vivienne Lorret
Responsible Ethan Weatherstone is determined to save Penelope Rutledge-and her reputation-from her silly scheme, but can he save himself from the temptation of her lips?
This was by far my favorite story. It was so well-rounded and well-thought out. Even knowing how it would end out (its a romance after all), I found myself feeling utterly heart broken for first Penelope because Ethan is such a dunderhead and then Ethan because he obviously cared far too much. Lorret did a wonderful job and I think was the perfect compliment to the season.
These stories may have been better served by not having the couples anticipate their wedding night so often. In a few cases it just didn't make sense because the couple didn't know each other that long (looking at you Lenora and Redfirn). of the five only two felt like they had a beginning, middle and end (Lorret and Gregory's). Its my understanding that only Barnes is a previously published author--this certainly makes me hope to see more from the others!
"Mistletoe Magic" by Sophie Barnes
What better way for Connor Talbot, Earl of Redfirn to spend the holidays than convincing Leonora Compton that the only match she needs to make is with him!
This a cute story--Lenora and Redfirn are at cross purposes in regards to the charges they are trying to marry off, so it makes for some funny moments. I'm not wholly convinced by the romance though, Lenora is more understandable then Redfirn who seems to just suddenly decide 'This chit ain't half bad!'.
"His Perfect Gift" by Karen Erickson
The Duke of Ashton has had three years to plan for his perfect Christmas present-the Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons as his wife. Now, all he has to do is convince the reluctant lady…
I liked this story far more. I feel bad for Ashton since he's getting one hell of a mother-in-law, but he seems happy enough. I thought when everything was finally laid out between Eleanor and Ashton, it was done well, but Erickson's inclusion of the younger brother's romantic foibles went nowhere really, so I'm not entirely sure why they were included.
"War of the Magi" by Rena Gregory
Phin Baldwin does not believe in Christmas magic….until the clever and beautiful Ginny Overton gets it into her head to show him how wonderful it can be when wishes come true.
This was an amusing story that had a couple surprises. This another story with the hero has a sudden epiphany that is largely told to us, not shown. I liked Ginny, her loyalty to her neighbors and father did her credit and her clever ruse certainly made for a great way to bring holiday cheer!
"Her Christmas Knight" by Sandra Jones
Just returned from the Crusades, marriage is the last thing on Sir Caerwyn’s mind. But will he be able to resist Lady Nia, the thief of his boyhood heart, when she tempts him yet again?
Unfortunately this one wasn't for me. I'm not fond of medieval set romances and had a hard time really getting into the story as a result (which isn't to say Jones can't write, just...wrong genre for me.)
"Tempting Mr. Weatherstone" by Vivienne Lorret
Responsible Ethan Weatherstone is determined to save Penelope Rutledge-and her reputation-from her silly scheme, but can he save himself from the temptation of her lips?
This was by far my favorite story. It was so well-rounded and well-thought out. Even knowing how it would end out (its a romance after all), I found myself feeling utterly heart broken for first Penelope because Ethan is such a dunderhead and then Ethan because he obviously cared far too much. Lorret did a wonderful job and I think was the perfect compliment to the season.
These stories may have been better served by not having the couples anticipate their wedding night so often. In a few cases it just didn't make sense because the couple didn't know each other that long (looking at you Lenora and Redfirn). of the five only two felt like they had a beginning, middle and end (Lorret and Gregory's). Its my understanding that only Barnes is a previously published author--this certainly makes me hope to see more from the others!
December 23, 2012
Originally posted at Reading Reality
There are five stories in this collection. And I read them all and definitely enjoyed them. But these are the two that stuck with me after I'd turned the last page.
Tempting Mr. Witherspoon by Vivienne Lorret takes the friends into lovers trope, dresses it up in Christmas wrapping paper, and does it proud.
Penelope Rutledge and Ethan Witherspoon have been close friends since childhood. Their families met when Penelope and her father moved in to the estate next to Ethan and his mother, after both had been widowed. Ethan and Penelope shared the tragedy of losing a parent much too young.
Since then, they have both had a need to maintain order, but Ethan much more assertively so than Penelope. Now Penelope is in her 20s, and other needs are rising to the surface. She wants a family of her own. Her own children. A husband. And she loves Ethan. She always has. But Ethan is unwilling to risk their friendship. It would upset the order of things.
Penelope knows that she must leave if she is ever to get over Ethan and have any chance at happiness. Or even contentment. Ethan is certain that all of her plans for leaving represent a risk to her reputation, that they are all dangerous to the order of things. To the order of his well-ordered life.
But will he see the truth before it is too late?
This was a beautiful family story. And a sweet love story. Escape Rating for Tempting Mr. Witherspoon: B+
War of the Magi by Rena Gregory was simply terrific. This is also a story about a young woman with a widowed father. Ginny is also in her 20s, and also has just a bit of fancifulness in her very well-ordered life.
Ginny helps her father manage the shop in their village, but she does want a life of her own. It's just that there hasn't been a man who interested her, and her father does need her.
Her villlage has a tradition about the gifts of the Magi. Not the actual Bible story, but a statue. Each year, the right to keep the statue is won by lottery, and the keeper gets to put three wishes in the statue. Those wishes somehow manage to get granted. Not always, but fairly often.
This year's winner is Phin Baldwin, a reporter at the local newspaper. Phin is from out of town, and he doesn't believe in wishes. But he won't give the statue to someone who does believe.
Phin also makes Ginny's heart beat faster. Well he did. Now he's making it beat faster out of sheer exasperation. So Ginny starts stealing the statue from Phin, and letting the villagers have it for a day at a time.
Sharing the wishes. Sparring with Phin. And, it turns out, making his heart beat faster.
Maybe wishes do come true.
The concept behind this story, the Magi, the wishes, and the town, and how Phin and Ginny get together, was more than terrific. Ginny finds a way to share the true meaning of Christmas with the whole village, have fun, and get her man. She makes him a true believer too!
Escape Rating for War of the Magi: A
There are five stories in this collection. And I read them all and definitely enjoyed them. But these are the two that stuck with me after I'd turned the last page.
Tempting Mr. Witherspoon by Vivienne Lorret takes the friends into lovers trope, dresses it up in Christmas wrapping paper, and does it proud.
Penelope Rutledge and Ethan Witherspoon have been close friends since childhood. Their families met when Penelope and her father moved in to the estate next to Ethan and his mother, after both had been widowed. Ethan and Penelope shared the tragedy of losing a parent much too young.
Since then, they have both had a need to maintain order, but Ethan much more assertively so than Penelope. Now Penelope is in her 20s, and other needs are rising to the surface. She wants a family of her own. Her own children. A husband. And she loves Ethan. She always has. But Ethan is unwilling to risk their friendship. It would upset the order of things.
Penelope knows that she must leave if she is ever to get over Ethan and have any chance at happiness. Or even contentment. Ethan is certain that all of her plans for leaving represent a risk to her reputation, that they are all dangerous to the order of things. To the order of his well-ordered life.
But will he see the truth before it is too late?
This was a beautiful family story. And a sweet love story. Escape Rating for Tempting Mr. Witherspoon: B+
War of the Magi by Rena Gregory was simply terrific. This is also a story about a young woman with a widowed father. Ginny is also in her 20s, and also has just a bit of fancifulness in her very well-ordered life.
Ginny helps her father manage the shop in their village, but she does want a life of her own. It's just that there hasn't been a man who interested her, and her father does need her.
Her villlage has a tradition about the gifts of the Magi. Not the actual Bible story, but a statue. Each year, the right to keep the statue is won by lottery, and the keeper gets to put three wishes in the statue. Those wishes somehow manage to get granted. Not always, but fairly often.
This year's winner is Phin Baldwin, a reporter at the local newspaper. Phin is from out of town, and he doesn't believe in wishes. But he won't give the statue to someone who does believe.
Phin also makes Ginny's heart beat faster. Well he did. Now he's making it beat faster out of sheer exasperation. So Ginny starts stealing the statue from Phin, and letting the villagers have it for a day at a time.
Sharing the wishes. Sparring with Phin. And, it turns out, making his heart beat faster.
Maybe wishes do come true.
The concept behind this story, the Magi, the wishes, and the town, and how Phin and Ginny get together, was more than terrific. Ginny finds a way to share the true meaning of Christmas with the whole village, have fun, and get her man. She makes him a true believer too!
Escape Rating for War of the Magi: A
December 26, 2012
Mistletoe Magic--Sophie Barnes
I have tried to read this author in the past, without success. It's not because the writing is bad but I had problems connecting to the characters. I wanted to like Leonora and Connor but couldn't manage to work up much enthusiasm for them. It wasn't dissatisfaction with the characters actions but more towards apathy. The interest to know more about them was not there.
His Perfect Gift--Karen Erickson
I finished this story but did it grudgingly. I wished the heroine had shown more backbone towards the members of her family. Honestly, I was hoping the hero was playing a trick on the heroine and was in fact going to leave her and her horrible family in the dust. What really upset me was that the hero paid off the father's debts and accepted the assumptions of her family that he would take care of them and any other "problems" (i.e. the father's gambling debts) in the future. Really! I was incredulous that he accepted this as part of his due for loving Eleanor; and Eleanor (who before thought not to be a burden) was smiling and happy to have Ashton take care of all the family's problems.
War of the Magi--Rena Gregory
This was a cute enemy to friends story. I wished there had been more explanation on the hero's background. I had trouble understanding why exactly he was in this town (as opposed to one of the others his family had holdings in) to look for a potential bride. If it was explained, I completely missed it. I understood where Ginny was coming from and I give props to her taking charge of Phin and trying to show him the light. She could have been snooty and mean with the lesson but she was kind and firm and funny.
Her Christmas Knight--Sandra Jones
This, too, was another instance where I was apathetic towards the characters. Additional information on the heroine and hero's shared past might have peaked my interest, especially since it was such a defining moment in both their lives. I also didn't like the the sister Serena and saw no reason why the main heroine was so accepting of her.
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone--Vivienne Lorret
This story was my favorite. Immediately I connected with Pen and her desire for more out of her life. What person hasn't woke up one day, realizing that they're stuck in a rut and wanting to change? The author's voice was a good one as well; I liked the pacing of her words. There was an exact balance between drama, humor, romance, and intimacy. I will definitely be on the look out for more of her work in the future.
*Review copy provided by publisher through Edelweiss for honest review.
I have tried to read this author in the past, without success. It's not because the writing is bad but I had problems connecting to the characters. I wanted to like Leonora and Connor but couldn't manage to work up much enthusiasm for them. It wasn't dissatisfaction with the characters actions but more towards apathy. The interest to know more about them was not there.
His Perfect Gift--Karen Erickson
I finished this story but did it grudgingly. I wished the heroine had shown more backbone towards the members of her family. Honestly, I was hoping the hero was playing a trick on the heroine and was in fact going to leave her and her horrible family in the dust. What really upset me was that the hero paid off the father's debts and accepted the assumptions of her family that he would take care of them and any other "problems" (i.e. the father's gambling debts) in the future. Really! I was incredulous that he accepted this as part of his due for loving Eleanor; and Eleanor (who before thought not to be a burden) was smiling and happy to have Ashton take care of all the family's problems.
War of the Magi--Rena Gregory
This was a cute enemy to friends story. I wished there had been more explanation on the hero's background. I had trouble understanding why exactly he was in this town (as opposed to one of the others his family had holdings in) to look for a potential bride. If it was explained, I completely missed it. I understood where Ginny was coming from and I give props to her taking charge of Phin and trying to show him the light. She could have been snooty and mean with the lesson but she was kind and firm and funny.
Her Christmas Knight--Sandra Jones
This, too, was another instance where I was apathetic towards the characters. Additional information on the heroine and hero's shared past might have peaked my interest, especially since it was such a defining moment in both their lives. I also didn't like the the sister Serena and saw no reason why the main heroine was so accepting of her.
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone--Vivienne Lorret
This story was my favorite. Immediately I connected with Pen and her desire for more out of her life. What person hasn't woke up one day, realizing that they're stuck in a rut and wanting to change? The author's voice was a good one as well; I liked the pacing of her words. There was an exact balance between drama, humor, romance, and intimacy. I will definitely be on the look out for more of her work in the future.
*Review copy provided by publisher through Edelweiss for honest review.
January 16, 2013
My mother bought this book and I figured, what the heck, it's Christmas, might as well give it a try.
Mistletoe Magic by Sophie Barnes
A year after her mother's death, Leonora Campton is inducted into The Ring of Protectors, a group dedicated to helping the wallflowers of society find an eligible mate. Her first prospect only seems interested in one man, someone the Earl of Redfirn is backing. Leonora isn't sure about either man but the Earl is especially intriguing.
An okay story. Maybe three out of five.
His Perfect Gift by Karen Erickson
Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons is part of a family that is good ton, but very poor. The Duke of Ashton had proposed to her two years ago, when he was just a second son. He knows that he shouldn't still love her but his circumstances have changed. Can he hope to change her mind as well?
Okay story.
War of the Magi by Rena Gregory
Eugenia (Ginny) Overton, daughter to the owner of a general goods store in South Dakota, has been interested in Phin Baldwin, journalist, for quite some time. But he hasn't really noticed her in that way. Then he wins the chance to retain the town's magi statues and make a Christmas wish (one that always comes true). When he scoffs at their community tradition, Ginny decides to help teach him the true meaning of Christmas.
Again, an okay story.
Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones
Lady Nia De Brionne and her sister are to be the prizes at a fair being held by her father. But someone is trying to sabotage the proceedings. She is trying to find out who with her recently returned first love, Caerwyn. She had innocently thought that making him jealous would secure him to his side, not send him away forever. But now he's back and learning that this is not the same girl he left behind.
This is an interesting story, but still no more than three stars.
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone by Vivienne Lorret
Penelope Rutledge is tired of not being married. She wants the happiness that her sister found. But she's been in love with family friend Ethan Weatherstone for too many years. He is her ideal, but doesn't seem to know that she's a woman. Even when he does seem to notice, it causes more consternation to him than joy.
Best story of the lot.
Probably would have given the whole thing two and a half stars if possible, but in the spirit of Christmas, I rounded up.
Mistletoe Magic by Sophie Barnes
A year after her mother's death, Leonora Campton is inducted into The Ring of Protectors, a group dedicated to helping the wallflowers of society find an eligible mate. Her first prospect only seems interested in one man, someone the Earl of Redfirn is backing. Leonora isn't sure about either man but the Earl is especially intriguing.
An okay story. Maybe three out of five.
His Perfect Gift by Karen Erickson
Lady Eleanor Fitzsimmons is part of a family that is good ton, but very poor. The Duke of Ashton had proposed to her two years ago, when he was just a second son. He knows that he shouldn't still love her but his circumstances have changed. Can he hope to change her mind as well?
Okay story.
War of the Magi by Rena Gregory
Eugenia (Ginny) Overton, daughter to the owner of a general goods store in South Dakota, has been interested in Phin Baldwin, journalist, for quite some time. But he hasn't really noticed her in that way. Then he wins the chance to retain the town's magi statues and make a Christmas wish (one that always comes true). When he scoffs at their community tradition, Ginny decides to help teach him the true meaning of Christmas.
Again, an okay story.
Her Christmas Knight by Sandra Jones
Lady Nia De Brionne and her sister are to be the prizes at a fair being held by her father. But someone is trying to sabotage the proceedings. She is trying to find out who with her recently returned first love, Caerwyn. She had innocently thought that making him jealous would secure him to his side, not send him away forever. But now he's back and learning that this is not the same girl he left behind.
This is an interesting story, but still no more than three stars.
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone by Vivienne Lorret
Penelope Rutledge is tired of not being married. She wants the happiness that her sister found. But she's been in love with family friend Ethan Weatherstone for too many years. He is her ideal, but doesn't seem to know that she's a woman. Even when he does seem to notice, it causes more consternation to him than joy.
Best story of the lot.
Probably would have given the whole thing two and a half stars if possible, but in the spirit of Christmas, I rounded up.
January 23, 2013
This review is ONLY for Sophie Barnes' story Mistletoe Magic and full disclosure, of which I was fortunate enough to receive a free ebook from Ms. Barnes herself. Full review to come on my blog. I'm reviewing this book for Wendy Super Librarian's TBR challenge book for January.
That being said, I felt this was almost "too" short. With my ereader (also reading this from my phone)it was only 66 pages. I just didn't feel it was enough story/plot for me to warm up to the characters. I finished this in my entire one-hour commute on the metro and my feelings for the characters didn't change. The concept/conflict was cute though: He is trying to set up his ward and she is trying to set up her "ward" (she's a in a secret group that sets up wallflowers) - if this was over 300 pages - this TOTALLY could've worked BRILLIANTLY! However, the heroine herself is also a wallflower and we see her struggle in her new "wallflower-coach" role, and I didn't feel that there was enough time/room at the end to see her overcome that struggle (at least not to my satisfaction - again, just my opinion). Both H&H admit that they're not good at matchmaking despite the success of their wards (and their own HEA!) but then queue love scene and the story ends - so it felt like their character arc just suddenly stopped RIGHT when I was watching it shift/improve. I want more story - full size story. No mini story!
That being said, I felt this was almost "too" short. With my ereader (also reading this from my phone)it was only 66 pages. I just didn't feel it was enough story/plot for me to warm up to the characters. I finished this in my entire one-hour commute on the metro and my feelings for the characters didn't change. The concept/conflict was cute though: He is trying to set up his ward and she is trying to set up her "ward" (she's a in a secret group that sets up wallflowers) - if this was over 300 pages - this TOTALLY could've worked BRILLIANTLY! However, the heroine herself is also a wallflower and we see her struggle in her new "wallflower-coach" role, and I didn't feel that there was enough time/room at the end to see her overcome that struggle (at least not to my satisfaction - again, just my opinion). Both H&H admit that they're not good at matchmaking despite the success of their wards (and their own HEA!) but then queue love scene and the story ends - so it felt like their character arc just suddenly stopped RIGHT when I was watching it shift/improve. I want more story - full size story. No mini story!
April 27, 2019
"Mistletoe Magic" by SOPHIE BARNES
3 stars
"His Perfect Gift" by KAREN ERICKSON
0 star
The Duke of Ashton was a freaking stalker!! The way he talked and acted gives me the creeps!
"War of the Magi" by RENA GREGORY
4 stars
Almost loved it (5 stars) but Phin was rude and ungentlemanly.
"Her Christmas Knight" by SANDRA JONES
1 star
I find both leading characters immature and petty, especially Caerwyn.
"Tempting Mr. Weatherstone" by VIVIENNE LORRET
0 star
"It was about time he understood that he had no right to interfere with her life." ~ the author wrote. BUT her female leading character didn't leave for good (like she originally planned) but instead entered the male leading character's carriage so that she could give him a piece of her mind! If she's determined to show him that he hasn't the right to interfere her life, the best way is to SHOW HIM. What was the point of telling him if he didn't understand her nor doesn't listen to her at all?! She was all talk and doesn't stand on her ground.
AVERAGE: 1.6 STARS
3 stars
"His Perfect Gift" by KAREN ERICKSON
0 star
The Duke of Ashton was a freaking stalker!! The way he talked and acted gives me the creeps!
"War of the Magi" by RENA GREGORY
4 stars
Almost loved it (5 stars) but Phin was rude and ungentlemanly.
"Her Christmas Knight" by SANDRA JONES
1 star
I find both leading characters immature and petty, especially Caerwyn.
"Tempting Mr. Weatherstone" by VIVIENNE LORRET
0 star
"It was about time he understood that he had no right to interfere with her life." ~ the author wrote. BUT her female leading character didn't leave for good (like she originally planned) but instead entered the male leading character's carriage so that she could give him a piece of her mind! If she's determined to show him that he hasn't the right to interfere her life, the best way is to SHOW HIM. What was the point of telling him if he didn't understand her nor doesn't listen to her at all?! She was all talk and doesn't stand on her ground.
AVERAGE: 1.6 STARS
December 18, 2015
Since this is an anthology some stories rated differently than others. I liked all the stories, none were disappointing. All authors were new to me.
In each story the hero is pursuing the female, sometimes quite subtly but he doesn't need to be convinced. He's either been in love with the heroine in the past or has been for quite some time or has been smitten recently.
Probably my favorite was "War of the Magi" because Ginny sets out to grant Christmas wishes for others even though she doesn't expect to get her own wish.
I also really enjoyed the last story "Tempting Mr. Weatherstone" because even though I knew the hero felt more for the heroine than she realized, how he eventually convinced her was so well done. I also liked that the heroine set out to find her own happiness instead of allowing life to pass her by.
In each story the hero is pursuing the female, sometimes quite subtly but he doesn't need to be convinced. He's either been in love with the heroine in the past or has been for quite some time or has been smitten recently.
Probably my favorite was "War of the Magi" because Ginny sets out to grant Christmas wishes for others even though she doesn't expect to get her own wish.
I also really enjoyed the last story "Tempting Mr. Weatherstone" because even though I knew the hero felt more for the heroine than she realized, how he eventually convinced her was so well done. I also liked that the heroine set out to find her own happiness instead of allowing life to pass her by.
December 23, 2014
These were all new-to-me authors, and I enjoyed all the Christmas novellas. The stories ranged from Medieval to Regency to American western. Each story had a different twist to the plot that I hadn't read before, so that was refreshing. I liked War of the Magi and Tempting Mr. Weatherstone the best. These are spicy stories, but not too hot. Just right for a little Christmas romance.
December 15, 2012
The best was the 3rd story by Rena Gregory-it was really good. It didn't feel like a short story n totally had me immersed in the story right from the beginning. The characters were very likeable as well as being very real. Fantastic n very sweet story. The others were mediore at best
January 3, 2013
This anthology was fantastic! The first I've read that I've really enjoyed all of the stories. Some wonderful new authors here and I loved the wide range of stories. Sweet and perfectly romantic. None of them felt rushed or too short and all of them were delightful.
December 31, 2012
I really enjoyed this anthology. It's a nice assortment of holiday stories. My favorite of the stories was Karen Erickson's, followed closely by Sophie Barnes' and Vivienne Lorret's. All of these authors were "new to me", but I'll definitely be reading their books in 2013!
April 7, 2014
All the stories in this were good. I am not usually a historical romance reader but I just have to read everything by Vivienne Lorret. She is so descriptive and her character development is outstanding.
July 24, 2014
Fun stories.
Fun stories.
I liked these short stories. All these Authors are very good. All the hero and heroines were strong people that had a few obstacles to overcome. In the end they all had their happy ever after.
Fun stories.
I liked these short stories. All these Authors are very good. All the hero and heroines were strong people that had a few obstacles to overcome. In the end they all had their happy ever after.
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