Bradford Seymour, the roguish Lord Greenwich, is renowned for his devil-may-care demeanor and heart seemingly encased in ice. Lady Skye Campbell, on the other hand, is a spirited beauty with a penchant for mischief. These two seemingly opposite souls are destined to collide in an unexpected way.
As the snow blankets the countryside in a picturesque English village, a fortuitous twist of fate traps Lord Greenwich and Lady Skye together at the cozy Rosewood Inn for the most enchanting time of the year—Christmas. Forced into close quarters, their differences become glaringly evident, and the sparks that fly are not just from the crackling fireplace.
Amidst the warmth of yuletide celebrations and the magic of a white Christmas, Lady Skye and Lord Greenwich discover that beneath the icy facade, there lies a heart yearning for love, and behind the fiery exterior, there's a longing for understanding. Can the spirit of Christmas work its miracles, thawing their hearts and bringing together two souls who are seemingly as different as night and day?
Escape to a wintry world of love, laughter, and unexpected romance in this Regency Christmas tale, where the icy lord and the fiery lady will discover that love knows no season and that beneath the mistletoe, anything is possible.
Amanda Mariel, an accomplished wordsmith, holds dual master's degrees in liberal arts and education, specializing in the captivating realms of history and literature. Beyond her academic pursuits, she embraces the joyful chaos of motherhood, tending to both her cherished teenagers and her trio of adored fur babies. Among them, a noble Bernese Mountain Dog named Blaze, and two cats of distinct character, Ezra and Puff, share their home.
A USA Today Bestselling luminary, Amanda Mariel conjures vivid tapestries of eras long past, drawing inspiration from the languid cadence of days gone by. With pen poised and imagination unfurled, she traverses the annals of time, weaving tales that illuminate historical landscapes with finesse and flair. Her creative spirit finds respite in reading, traversing new horizons through travel, and capturing moments through the lenses of both her camera and artistic endeavors. Yet, it is in the embrace of family that she finds her truest sanctuary.
To delve deeper into Amanda's captivating world visit www.amandamariel.com. While there, an invitation to join her newsletter promises a gateway to the latest from Amanda Mariel's literary treasury, and an opportunity to claim a complimentary eBook.
Amanda's passion extends to her readers, welcoming their voices and stories into her narrative realm. Engage with her through email at amanda@amandamariel.com, or connect via her social Media channels.
Amidst the prose and parchment, Amanda Mariel etches a profound connection, bridging eras, hearts, and minds, creating a legacy that resonates through the corridors of time.
This is my 23rd book by Amanda Mariel. I have been reading her since 2020. Her books are usually short reads but I really like her writing. She writes a lot of anthologies.
I enjoyed reading Bradford and Skye's story. Cute couple and cute story.
Lady Skye Campbell, widowed Countess of Hampton, is traveling to spend time at Christmas with her family and stops at the Rosewood Inn along the way. Bradford Seymour, Marquess of Greenwich, a known rogue, is also traveling and ended up at the inn where the two met. As a storm moved in, they had to remain at the Inn and enjoyed each other’s company as flirtation took them to something more and Christmas worked its magic. Will the two of them find a life together? Or is this only a passing memory?
This is such a good story that draws the reader in to wonder if these two will find what they have always wanted. Share their journey and see if a special future awaits them.
“Scandalized by a Rogue’s Kiss” is book eight in Amanda Mariel’s series Connected by a Kiss. This story is a prime example of a beautifully crafted Regency style romance. The setting descriptions pull the reader into the story in such a way that we can feel the chill in the air and smell the smoke curling off the roaring fire. By chance, or possibility by fate, two nobles are snowed in at the Rosewood Inn. An overnight stop at the coaching inn was turned into an extended stay while the winds blew, the snow fell, and roads became impassable. Bradford Seymour, a rouge with a reputation for gambling, drinking, and womanizing bumped into a woman who would change the trajectory of his life. Skye Campbell, a young widow with a penchant for life instinctively knew Bradford was unlike any man she had ever met. After their initial meeting, these two talked, laughed, played cards or chess, and ate their meals together. Their back and forth banter was fun to read and their blossoming relationship was wonderful to witness. The chemistry between Skye and Bradford was evident from the first moment they crossed paths. Their passion was hot and steamy, keeping them warm during the snowstorm. But, would their relationship last outside the bubble they created? Bradford was a well known rogue with a scandalous past and, although Skye was a widow, scandal could harm her reputation. Skye was also concerned about a potential future between her and Bradford. Someday Bradford would inherit a title and would need a wife who could give him an heir. Skye never became pregnant during her marriage. That fact alone would deter many suitors. It is unlikely Bradford and Skye would’ve met and formed a relationship in London because of who they were and how they lived. But in the countryside away from society’s prying eyes, anything can happen. This Christmastime novella doesn’t take long to read nor does it have a complicated plot. This is a love story that concentrates on the couple involved and no one else. Definitely a joy to read anytime of the year. If you are looking for a straightforward love story that is heartfelt and sensitive, passionate and steamy that you can read in one sitting then this one is for you. This novella by Amanda Mariel goes on my recommended list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
A nice afternoon read. This started slow for me. I understand it is a period piece, but the conversations seemed stilted and forced. The descriptions of the scenery seemed to get more grace and flow. Once Bradford and Skye were alone things picked up a bit. The conversation became easier, but the scenery still seemed to get more loving attention.
I liked that they saw their future together, but the whole timeline threw me off. Both Bradford and Skye are traveling to spend Christmas with their families. They spend several days stranded at the Inn and then seem to suddenly arrive in Scotland and have a Christmas day wedding. Then in what seems to be a simple blink of an eye they arrive in Yorkshire. Yes, this is more of a novella, but if you are going to use stilted polite conversation for most of the courtship in my mind you have to stick to the realities of time as well. Not to mention the sudden arrival at Bradford's famiy estate to find not just his family, but hers as well? I was also curious how society would see them as a scandal if she was a Lady, obviously well regarded if the whispered conversations at the Inn were any indecation, and he is the heir to a dukedom?
The trip could have given them more time to converse about their psts, hopes, dreams. Twice the author alluded to old wounds and Skye finally getting to spend time with those she loves, but no time was given to this which I saw as a lost opportunityto flesh her out. It was mentioned her first marriage was one of convenience but they came to have good feelings towatd each other...so, old wounds? Is thete a book that gives her more time?
This held promise of a lovely romance , but my mind kept getting distracted by all of the above and I was unable to get past them. The promise started to come through in the epilogue, but then it was over.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a fun and steamy Regency romp. The novella mostly takes place over the course of just a few days when a band of travelers from different parts of England are stuck snowbound in a wayside inn. The unattached nobleman and noblewoman in the group are instantly attracted to each other, and the book shows how they get to know each other with lots of witty banter, forced-proximity activities, and flirtatious innuendo. This isn't meant to be a serious or rigidly authentic Regency, but if you accept it for what it is, it's a lot of fun. Part of what makes this book, and something that makes quite a few of this author's audiobooks so enjoyable, is the delightful narrator. Her English accent is perfect for Regency romance, and it is clear she is just having fun with the book and characters as well. It's hard not to catch the infectious spirit imbued into the book by both the author and narrator, making it so you just roll with its sometimes over-the-top moments. If you enjoy light and steamy Regency romance, you will probably enjoy the story.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this short story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is a straight forward love at first sight, cute, Christmas/winter themed, forced proximity, cheerful, second chance love story. No significant angst, intrigue or what not.
Lady Skye Campbell is a lovely, charming, witty widow travelling to reunite with her family for Christmas when she stops at the Rosewood Inn to break her travels. There, she meets Bradford Seymour, Lord Greenwich, a charming rogue with a bit of a scandalous reputation. They are instantly charmed by each other, and set up a flirtation.
They are trapped together, along with others, at the cosy, crowded inn, when a snowstorm blows up, and this gives them a chance to improve their acquaintance, and grow their attraction until they fall into a brief, steamy affair that brews into more.
A very sweet cute story with snowball fights, sleigh rides. Just a sweet, straight forward love story with HEA.
Such a sweet story! I always love it when a notorious rake falls in love. Skye, the widowed Countess of Hampton, was young, beautiful and playful. Bradford, the Marquess of Greenwich, had a reputation for enjoying women, gambling and alcohol. Both were traveling and stopped at the same inn. They enjoyed some light-hearted banter until the weather turned, a storm set in, and they were stuck at the inn for a week. This is a quick upbeat story with wonderful dialogue, childlike moments and steamy encounters. The author includes picturesque landscapes, quaint villages and various and sundry characters. On the whole, there is an enjoyable lightness to this tale that will engage your heart and leave you with a smile!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
☃️☃️ONE EXCITING THRILL RIDE☃️☃️ Blazing blizzards Blitzen! Amanda works wonders once again with this enthrallingly skillful, tantalizingly compelling and seductively addictive, rock-our-world rollercoaster. Christmas miracles abound while secrets are solidified, revelations are revealed and promises are pledged, melding this baby to life flawlessly. Vigilant of the thrilling ups and tumultuous downs as the captivating twists and stunning turns unfold. Attributes and ingenuity in layer upon layer, you peel back with each page your drawn into this tangled web so comfy and tight, booting this gem into a tempest with life-changing results. The scenarios are 100% spot-on realistic with vibrant portrayals and illustrative descriptions, so sumptuous and provocative, making the plot line explode. Awesome job Amanda, thanks for sharing this amazing treat with us.
What an amazing story, best love story. Bradford and Skye have both found love that they never felt they would . Skye is a widow and Bradford is a known rogue. Both are stuck at the Inn for a few days during the snowstorm. When spending time together, they discover that they have a lot in common. Bradford and Skye decide to go to Greta Green to get married and spend their time together. Loved the epilogue at the end. Just a fabulous book to curl up with in a comfy chair and read. Well written, full of everything you need. Such a wonderful read. Would strongly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bradford, Lord Green is a well-known rake who loves his life just like it is. He has no reason to marry. Skye, Lady Hampton is a widow who is known for her spite and fun natural. She always has a smile on her face. She wants to enjoy all of life as much as she can after her loveless marriage. When she runs into Bradford, it almost causes them both to fall down. Both are surprised by the instant attraction. With both stuck at the Rosewood Inn due to heavy snowstorms. This is a safe haven to do and say what one likes without society or the ton around. They have a lot of sexy banter, snow fights along with understanding and love. It's a great fun read, perfect for a hot cup of tea in front of the fireplace. It's a sweet story and should not be missed. It has all the good feelings we want at this time of year. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. Quickly grab your copy and get started.
The Infamous Rogue and the Mischievous Lady He is ice; she is fire. What happens when they fall in love at Christmastime? Bradford and Skye might be complete opposites, but the sparks between them fly—despite, or perhaps because of, their differences. They say opposites attract, and she just might thaw the ice around his heart, while he cools her fiery spirit. When love is involved, anything is possible, because the heart always leads the way. This is a fun, lighthearted historical romance you can enjoy in a single sitting. Perfect for readers who love novellas that make you smile and warm your heart.
I usually find Amanda Mariel’s books delightful but I struggled with the beginning of this one. I think it was too much description and not enough dialogue and action and then once the action picked up there really wasn’t anything truly exciting about it. The snowball fight, the sled ride and the trip to Gretna Green added to the story but I still felt there was room for so much more with those. It takes a while but the true underlying struggles of the characters finally come to light making them more interesting but I wish this would have been revealed earlier.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A heart-warming, thrilling and magical Regency Christmas romance!
Bradford Seymour, the dissolute Lord Greenwich, is a libertine known for his carefree attitude and a heart that seems to be made of ice. Then there is Skye Campbell, the widow Lady Hampton, a vivacious beauty with an undeniable spark for mischief. Fate intervenes when a snowstorm leaves them completely stranded at the cosy Rosewood Inn, right in the middle of the Christmas festivities. During this enforced confinement, the initial friction between their personalities soon gives way to undeniable chemistry and the realisation that they both long for something much deeper.
Two souls meet at an inn on a journey to visit family during the Christmas season. A snow storm prevents them from going forward and thus the plot of this story begins. Skye and Bradford begin an adventure of a lifetime in this very short story. A lovely novelle to enjoy with a cup of hot coco, a warm fluffy blanket and a cozy fire on a cold winter day. Well written with joy and steam for the holiday season.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"I have found myself quite...affected by your presence."
This short, steamy holiday regency romance doesn't have much plot. There aren't enough pages for it. And it's pretty much an insta-everything. But it was still entertaining and I found the characters likeable. It's probably only three and a half stars but except for an overuse of several words (indeed) it was, for the most part, well written and edited, so I rounded up instead of down. Since it's quick and romantic without any real dark angst and drama, it's a great little holiday treat.
A steamy novella that takes place over a few days, in the lead up to the Christmas season. Bradford Seymore, Lord Greenwich, and Lady Skye Campbell happen to meet when they both get stuck at the same wayside inn to escape the snowstorm on their way to their respective destination.
The forced proximity allows for some steamy fun and a cheerful, second chance love story that has you rooting for the couple and enjoying the lovely Christmas season and all things Christmasy, e.g. sleigh rides, snowballs fights, etc.
I received an ARC from Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
This is a novelle. Bradford and Skye are both heading home for Christmas, stop at the same inn, and get stuck due to a snowstorm. Forced proximity, natural attraction, and it evolves quickly into a romance. The story moves fast from meet, romance, to marriage. The story alludes to past hurts, but they are really not explained in the story. It is a short, sweet story. I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Enjoyable, Quick Read! Opposites attract in this short and exciting romantic interlude where our two characters, Skye and Bradford, find themselves having to outwait a snowstorm together. Christmas has never been more fulfilling nor exciting for them as they get to know each other and discover a true love. I enjoyed this fastpaced, entertaining story very much and am happy to recommend it having read an early copy.
Skye, a widow and Bradford, a marquess, meet at an inn on their way to their Christmas destinations. There is an instant attraction between them. This is a beautiful novella with great chemistry between Skye and Bradford. This is a fun read with lots of steamy scenes. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bradford and Skye meet at inn and when the snowy weather causes them to be stranded they start an intimate relationship sometimes in some uncomfortable sounding places like outside in the snow. Their relationship escalates quickly but she is afraid they cannot marry after her prior marriage didn’t result in any children. This was a steamy novella holiday romance.
Enjoy reading the historical novels. They can add a lot to a story. Great characters with different personalities that clash but they also are attracted to each other. The holidays can add an unexpected twist. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There is a fine line between too many descriptions and not enough. This book had the perfect balance between descriptions and witty exchanges to enhance the reading experience. A great heartwarming story for the holidays (or anytime).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was wonderful to meet these 2 opposite types of characters and see how they got their happily ever after. Skye and Bradford don't seem like they should be happy together but they end up finding out that they can.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Two people travelling end up at the same inn, meet, storm keeps them there longer than expected and they fall for each other.
It started off a bit slow for me but I kept to it, and it did get better, but I wanted something that would hold me captive from the start. I like that it was set at Christmas.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this lovely novella that focuses on the love between Skye and Bradford, It is set during the Christmas season in a snowy town and it was prefect to read this time of the year. Historical romances are always a joy for me to read.
I always love a good regency romance but this had so much more. A short but very sweet tale of two opposites souls finally finding their true love in each other. Everything tied up nice and neat with a cherry on top. Predictable happy ending.
What a beautiful and entertaining Christmas love story. K enjoyed the delightful, humorous, and witty characters. Their romance was enchanting, and the ending was very happy. I highly recommend reading!
A snowstorm strands Skye, a widowed countess, and Bradford, a charming marquess, at a festive inn—where instant attraction turns into a heartwarming holiday romance. Witty, steamy, and delightfully cozy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brad and Skye... another couple that won my heart. I mean, they were written by Amanda, so... These opposites do attract, and the fire that was burning inside of them... the romance was SO GOOD! It felt like a warm hug ♥ Thanks, Booksprout!