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Once Upon a Regency Christmas: On a Winter's Eve\Marriage Made at Christmas\Cinderella's Perfect Christmas
THREE REGENCY HEROES IN DISGUISE.
THREE CHRISTMAS NOVELLAS TO WARM YOUR HEART!
ON A WINTER'S EVE by Louise Allen
Snowbound together, Lady Julia Chalcott and Captain Giles Markham try to fight temptation. But, as Christmas draws closer, their attraction proves too strong to resist!
MARRIAGE MADE AT CHRISTMAS by Sophia James
Christine Howard's frozen heart melts as she gets to know her new bodyguard. How can a man so scarred and mysterious make her feel so safe…?
CINDERELLA'S PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Annie Burrows
Shy Alice Waverly's kiss with Captain Jack Grayling makes her wonder if he—and his little children—could be the Christmas miracle she's always dreamed of…
THREE CHRISTMAS NOVELLAS TO WARM YOUR HEART!
ON A WINTER'S EVE by Louise Allen
Snowbound together, Lady Julia Chalcott and Captain Giles Markham try to fight temptation. But, as Christmas draws closer, their attraction proves too strong to resist!
MARRIAGE MADE AT CHRISTMAS by Sophia James
Christine Howard's frozen heart melts as she gets to know her new bodyguard. How can a man so scarred and mysterious make her feel so safe…?
CINDERELLA'S PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Annie Burrows
Shy Alice Waverly's kiss with Captain Jack Grayling makes her wonder if he—and his little children—could be the Christmas miracle she's always dreamed of…
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 18, 2016
82 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
Louise Allen
424 books331 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
This author also writes under the name Francesca Shaw.
I have had my nose buried in a history book - fact or fiction - for as long as I can remember, but even more important to me are the places and the objects that conjure up the past. My first attempt at historical fiction at the age of eight was three pages of improbable medieval drama set in the local castle.
With a degree in geography and archaeology I love to try and 'read' the landscape and the buildings in it for clues about the past. Virtually any place can trigger ideas for plots, but I am particularly inspired by Venice, Burgundy, Mediterranean islands and the Hertfordshire and Norfolk countryside.
I live in England in a village in Bedfordshire with my long-suffering husband. He is not sure whether to be flattered or alarmed to be told he is the inspiration for all my romantic heroes! Whenever possible we escape to our cottage on the North Norfolk coast where Percy, the bossy pheasant, allows us to share the garden.
My resolution every time I start on a new plot is to plan it carefully, make copious notes first and write lots of drafts in a disciplined and orderly manner. What inevitably happens is that the story starts to write itself in my head until it gets completely out of control - meanwhile my study floor becomes a sea of open books, prints and maps and I am found sitting in the car at traffic lights, muttering dialogue. At that point I have to start writing, knowing full well that the hero and heroine are going to take over and sabotage all my attempts at discipline. It is, after all, their story.
This author also writes under the name Francesca Shaw.
I have had my nose buried in a history book - fact or fiction - for as long as I can remember, but even more important to me are the places and the objects that conjure up the past. My first attempt at historical fiction at the age of eight was three pages of improbable medieval drama set in the local castle.
With a degree in geography and archaeology I love to try and 'read' the landscape and the buildings in it for clues about the past. Virtually any place can trigger ideas for plots, but I am particularly inspired by Venice, Burgundy, Mediterranean islands and the Hertfordshire and Norfolk countryside.
I live in England in a village in Bedfordshire with my long-suffering husband. He is not sure whether to be flattered or alarmed to be told he is the inspiration for all my romantic heroes! Whenever possible we escape to our cottage on the North Norfolk coast where Percy, the bossy pheasant, allows us to share the garden.
My resolution every time I start on a new plot is to plan it carefully, make copious notes first and write lots of drafts in a disciplined and orderly manner. What inevitably happens is that the story starts to write itself in my head until it gets completely out of control - meanwhile my study floor becomes a sea of open books, prints and maps and I am found sitting in the car at traffic lights, muttering dialogue. At that point I have to start writing, knowing full well that the hero and heroine are going to take over and sabotage all my attempts at discipline. It is, after all, their story.
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August 8, 2017
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
This charming anthology carries the enduring and magical warmth of Christmas. Everyone finds hope then love after enduring a variety of obstacles, hardships, disappointments and tragedies. There are bittersweet moments and memories shared, all with the holiday spirit (and plot moppets) to brighten the darkest moments. A wonderful collection of stories by authors who understand and do romance well.
This charming anthology carries the enduring and magical warmth of Christmas. Everyone finds hope then love after enduring a variety of obstacles, hardships, disappointments and tragedies. There are bittersweet moments and memories shared, all with the holiday spirit (and plot moppets) to brighten the darkest moments. A wonderful collection of stories by authors who understand and do romance well.
November 13, 2016
ON A WINTER'S EVE by Louise Allen
Snowbound together, Lady Julia Chalcott and Captain Giles Markham try to fight temptation. But, as Christmas draws closer, their attraction proves too strong to resist!
Good story. Julia has returned to England from India, after the death of her husband. She has brought her half-Indian stepdaughter with her, hoping to give the girl a better future. She is also hoping to marry again. Instead, she discovers that men are far more interested in her bank account than her, and treatment of Miri has been less than honorable. So she and Miri leave London to go to the country house that she has inherited for the holidays. She is determined to make a plan for the future, and decides to play down her finances until she finds someone who wants her for herself. They get caught in a snowstorm and just a few miles from the house come across a stranded traveler.
Giles has sold out of the army and is on his way home to take over his inheritance. It's not something he expected or wanted, but he knows his duty. Unfortunately his horse went lame, so he left it in a cow byre and set off on foot. He also found a turkey stuck in a snowbank, and rather than leave it to die, picked it up and took it with him. He was grateful to be rescued by Julia.
When they arrive at Julia's house, it turns out no one expected her or prepared for them. All three turn to in order to make things livable for as long as they need to be there. Along the way, Julia and Giles discover an intense attraction to each other. They try hard to resist. Giles knows he can't get involved because he needs to find and marry a rich wife, and it wouldn't be fair to Julia to lead her on. Julia is wary of all men and their motivations. But as they spend the next few days together, the attraction becomes harder to resist.
I loved seeing their interactions. Giles is a charming man with a pretty wicked sense of humor. He also has a way of saying something that on the surface seems innocent but can have a deeper meaning. Julia is a woman who has had to become strong and self-reliant over the last several years, so she has no problem standing up for what she wants. I loved seeing them make the decision to make the most of their time together. Neither expected to actually develop feelings for each other. Julia realizes that she has what Giles needs, but doesn't get the reaction she hoped for when she offers it. Giles is stunned by what she tells him, but reacts badly thanks to an experience in his past. It isn't until he finishes his journey that he admits that he overreacted. I loved his reaction to his kinswoman at the house, and how it emphasized what he left behind. The ending was great, with Giles's big moment being both sweet and romantic.
MARRIAGE MADE AT CHRISTMAS by Sophia James
Series: Penniless Lords (Book 5)
Christine Howard's frozen heart melts as she gets to know her new bodyguard. How can a man so scarred and mysterious make her feel so safe??
Good story. Christina is the younger sister of Lucien, from Marriage Made in Rebellion. She was engaged to a man who died during the war and has now put the idea of marriage behind her. Instead, she has devoted her time and effort to a string of seamstress shops where she employs women who are in desperate need. She is doing quite well, but has recently started receiving threats telling her to stop what she is doing. She's out walking one day and sees a man following her, which makes her nervous. A man came to her rescue, offering to "take care" of her follower.
Will Miller is an American who has come to England following up on a letter he received. While scoping out the sender of that letter, he is working as a groom for a local nobleman. He comes to Christina's aid and later brings the man that was following her to her brother's house. From that, Lucien hires Will to be her bodyguard while she is out and about, while he sets out to discover who is behind the threats.
I loved the developing relationship. First, there is definite attraction between the two of them. Christina's heart has been pretty locked up since her fiancé's death, but something about Will is awakening her feelings. Will has his own issues with relationships after witnessing the bitterness of his parents. I liked seeing them get to know each other during their time in the country, as their feeling started to grow from attraction to something more.
But there is more to Will than Christina knows, and it turns out that there is a link between him and the person threatening her. I loved seeing how Will confronted him and made his requirements clear. There was a twist at the end of that confrontation that brought extra danger to Will, danger that manifested quickly. He was attacked, beaten badly and stabbed, though he still came out on top in the fight. I loved how Christina cared for him, and finally admitted to herself what she felt for him.
As Will's life dramatically changes, Christina is left wondering where she stands. I loved the scene at the ball, where Will appears in his new role, and takes his courage in hand to dance with Christina. I loved his big moment there, his hint of vulnerability as he goes after what he wants. I loved her reaction. I also enjoyed the brief appearance of the other "Penniless Lords" at the end.
CINDERELLA'S PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Annie Burrows
Shy Alice Waverly's kiss with Captain Jack Grayling makes her wonder if he - and his little children - could be the Christmas miracle she's always dreamed of?
Good story. Alice is the poor relation, living with her cousins. She is basically an unpaid servant, condemned to doing whatever they want her to do. Shortly before Christmas she comes down with a nasty cold and rather than being cared for, all they can think about is that she not infect them. They have been invited to a neighboring estate for a house party, to be attended by a widowed earl. The two young ladies are determined to do whatever necessary to snag the earl, and they want Alice there to fetch and carry for them. Though she feels a bit guilty about it, Alice makes out that she's sicker than she is, in hopes of being left behind. She succeeds, leaving just her, the scullery maid, and the boot boy in residence. A bad snowstorm hits, and a stranger comes knocking on their door, asking for shelter.
Jack has recently sold his commission in the army and come home to take over his inheritance. He had sent his pregnant wife and young son back to England to her parents to protect them from harsh army conditions during the war. His wife died, and her parents cared for the children. But when Jack arrived, he was horrified by how his children and been treated and took them away immediately rather than wait until he got settled. Now he and his sergeant and the two children are caught in the storm.
Alice and the others were logically frightened by their first sight of Jack and company, but the presence of the children rapidly changed that. Alice feels bad that she can't offer Jack and his group better accommodations, but she does the best she can. I loved Jack's willingness to do whatever necessary to make it all work. There is a connection between Alice and Jack from the beginning, not just attraction. I ached for Jack and his guilt over what had happened with his kids. Alice is quite sensitive to his feelings and goes to great lengths to help him connect with them and bolster his self-confidence. I loved seeing the simple fun they all had together.
Jack is quite drawn to Alice, but he knows who he is and what is ahead of him. As much as he'd like to, getting involved with an innocent servant, which is what he thinks she is, wouldn't be right. However, he does make an offer that he hopes she'll accept, and is quite upset when she turns him down flat. Alice, not knowing his truth, was expecting quite a different offer and is hurt by what he says. As the weather clears and Jack and company leave, he finally sees the light. I loved his big moment at the end, especially since he didn't know the truth about her. The ending was great, and I especially loved her family's reaction.
Snowbound together, Lady Julia Chalcott and Captain Giles Markham try to fight temptation. But, as Christmas draws closer, their attraction proves too strong to resist!
Good story. Julia has returned to England from India, after the death of her husband. She has brought her half-Indian stepdaughter with her, hoping to give the girl a better future. She is also hoping to marry again. Instead, she discovers that men are far more interested in her bank account than her, and treatment of Miri has been less than honorable. So she and Miri leave London to go to the country house that she has inherited for the holidays. She is determined to make a plan for the future, and decides to play down her finances until she finds someone who wants her for herself. They get caught in a snowstorm and just a few miles from the house come across a stranded traveler.
Giles has sold out of the army and is on his way home to take over his inheritance. It's not something he expected or wanted, but he knows his duty. Unfortunately his horse went lame, so he left it in a cow byre and set off on foot. He also found a turkey stuck in a snowbank, and rather than leave it to die, picked it up and took it with him. He was grateful to be rescued by Julia.
When they arrive at Julia's house, it turns out no one expected her or prepared for them. All three turn to in order to make things livable for as long as they need to be there. Along the way, Julia and Giles discover an intense attraction to each other. They try hard to resist. Giles knows he can't get involved because he needs to find and marry a rich wife, and it wouldn't be fair to Julia to lead her on. Julia is wary of all men and their motivations. But as they spend the next few days together, the attraction becomes harder to resist.
I loved seeing their interactions. Giles is a charming man with a pretty wicked sense of humor. He also has a way of saying something that on the surface seems innocent but can have a deeper meaning. Julia is a woman who has had to become strong and self-reliant over the last several years, so she has no problem standing up for what she wants. I loved seeing them make the decision to make the most of their time together. Neither expected to actually develop feelings for each other. Julia realizes that she has what Giles needs, but doesn't get the reaction she hoped for when she offers it. Giles is stunned by what she tells him, but reacts badly thanks to an experience in his past. It isn't until he finishes his journey that he admits that he overreacted. I loved his reaction to his kinswoman at the house, and how it emphasized what he left behind. The ending was great, with Giles's big moment being both sweet and romantic.
MARRIAGE MADE AT CHRISTMAS by Sophia James
Series: Penniless Lords (Book 5)
Christine Howard's frozen heart melts as she gets to know her new bodyguard. How can a man so scarred and mysterious make her feel so safe??
Good story. Christina is the younger sister of Lucien, from Marriage Made in Rebellion. She was engaged to a man who died during the war and has now put the idea of marriage behind her. Instead, she has devoted her time and effort to a string of seamstress shops where she employs women who are in desperate need. She is doing quite well, but has recently started receiving threats telling her to stop what she is doing. She's out walking one day and sees a man following her, which makes her nervous. A man came to her rescue, offering to "take care" of her follower.
Will Miller is an American who has come to England following up on a letter he received. While scoping out the sender of that letter, he is working as a groom for a local nobleman. He comes to Christina's aid and later brings the man that was following her to her brother's house. From that, Lucien hires Will to be her bodyguard while she is out and about, while he sets out to discover who is behind the threats.
I loved the developing relationship. First, there is definite attraction between the two of them. Christina's heart has been pretty locked up since her fiancé's death, but something about Will is awakening her feelings. Will has his own issues with relationships after witnessing the bitterness of his parents. I liked seeing them get to know each other during their time in the country, as their feeling started to grow from attraction to something more.
But there is more to Will than Christina knows, and it turns out that there is a link between him and the person threatening her. I loved seeing how Will confronted him and made his requirements clear. There was a twist at the end of that confrontation that brought extra danger to Will, danger that manifested quickly. He was attacked, beaten badly and stabbed, though he still came out on top in the fight. I loved how Christina cared for him, and finally admitted to herself what she felt for him.
As Will's life dramatically changes, Christina is left wondering where she stands. I loved the scene at the ball, where Will appears in his new role, and takes his courage in hand to dance with Christina. I loved his big moment there, his hint of vulnerability as he goes after what he wants. I loved her reaction. I also enjoyed the brief appearance of the other "Penniless Lords" at the end.
CINDERELLA'S PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Annie Burrows
Shy Alice Waverly's kiss with Captain Jack Grayling makes her wonder if he - and his little children - could be the Christmas miracle she's always dreamed of?
Good story. Alice is the poor relation, living with her cousins. She is basically an unpaid servant, condemned to doing whatever they want her to do. Shortly before Christmas she comes down with a nasty cold and rather than being cared for, all they can think about is that she not infect them. They have been invited to a neighboring estate for a house party, to be attended by a widowed earl. The two young ladies are determined to do whatever necessary to snag the earl, and they want Alice there to fetch and carry for them. Though she feels a bit guilty about it, Alice makes out that she's sicker than she is, in hopes of being left behind. She succeeds, leaving just her, the scullery maid, and the boot boy in residence. A bad snowstorm hits, and a stranger comes knocking on their door, asking for shelter.
Jack has recently sold his commission in the army and come home to take over his inheritance. He had sent his pregnant wife and young son back to England to her parents to protect them from harsh army conditions during the war. His wife died, and her parents cared for the children. But when Jack arrived, he was horrified by how his children and been treated and took them away immediately rather than wait until he got settled. Now he and his sergeant and the two children are caught in the storm.
Alice and the others were logically frightened by their first sight of Jack and company, but the presence of the children rapidly changed that. Alice feels bad that she can't offer Jack and his group better accommodations, but she does the best she can. I loved Jack's willingness to do whatever necessary to make it all work. There is a connection between Alice and Jack from the beginning, not just attraction. I ached for Jack and his guilt over what had happened with his kids. Alice is quite sensitive to his feelings and goes to great lengths to help him connect with them and bolster his self-confidence. I loved seeing the simple fun they all had together.
Jack is quite drawn to Alice, but he knows who he is and what is ahead of him. As much as he'd like to, getting involved with an innocent servant, which is what he thinks she is, wouldn't be right. However, he does make an offer that he hopes she'll accept, and is quite upset when she turns him down flat. Alice, not knowing his truth, was expecting quite a different offer and is hurt by what he says. As the weather clears and Jack and company leave, he finally sees the light. I loved his big moment at the end, especially since he didn't know the truth about her. The ending was great, and I especially loved her family's reaction.
January 13, 2021
Kısa bir historical okumak istiyordum. Harlequinin yılbaşı edisyonu bunun için mükemmeldi. 150 sayfayı geçmeyeb tatlış noel hikayeleri.
Edisyonun ilk hikayesini Loise Allen yazmış. Bir.kış masalı. Bu hikayede aklı başında Juliayla tanışıyoruz. Hindistanda kocası öldükten sor a üvey kızıyla İngiltereye gelmiş. Tabi noel gelmiş, hava soğuk. Evlerine giderken yolda bir adamla karşılaşıyor ve hikaye başlıyor. Yüzbaşı Giles tam bir görev adamıydı ve Juliada her duruma adepte olmaya çalışan zeki bir kadın. Aralarındaki elektrik güzeldi. Tam araları bozuldu derken ortaya bir noel mucizesi çıktı :) güzel bir hikayeydi.
Edisyonun ikinci kitabı Sophia James'in Kendini Aşka Bırak adlı kitabıydı. Kitap olaya çok hızlı başlamıştı. Karakterler çat diye tanıştı. Tamam bu bir harlequin ama olaya birden girmeleri insanda sanki öncesi vardı ama kesmişler midir nedir havası uyandırıyordu. Bu durum hikayenin bütününe yayılmıştı. Karakterlerle bir bağ kurmaya çalışıyorsunuz ama hikaye çok hızlı akıyor bu da hikayeyi yüzeysel kılmıştı. En beğenmediğim bu diyebilirim. Öpüştüklerinde bile hiç bir duygu geçiremedi. Yazar genel olarak mı böyle yoksa bu kitabı mı çok kötüydü bilemiyorum. Sadece bu kitap olsaydı bir puan bile verebilirdim. Boş vaktiniz varsa bile okumanızı tavsiye etmem.
Edisyonun üçüncü kitabı ve bu üç hikaye içerisinde en çok sevdiğim Anne Burrows'un Bir mucize gibi adlı kitabıydı. Bu hikaye ilk hikayeye nazaran daha sevimliydi. Çocuklar olaya neşe katmıştı. Hiç bir şey gereksiz değildi. Alice düşünceli bir karakterdi, yüzbaşı çocuklarıyla ilgilenmek isteyen ama ne yapacağını bilemeyen bir babaydı. Tabi gönül isterdi ki şöyle uzun uzun çiftin hikayesini okuyalım ama uzatmadan bitirmişlerdi. Kısa olması sayesinde problemlerde hemen çözüldü. Ee Noel mucizesi geldi sonuçta. Çıtır çerezlik güzel bir kitaptı.
Edisyonun ilk hikayesini Loise Allen yazmış. Bir.kış masalı. Bu hikayede aklı başında Juliayla tanışıyoruz. Hindistanda kocası öldükten sor a üvey kızıyla İngiltereye gelmiş. Tabi noel gelmiş, hava soğuk. Evlerine giderken yolda bir adamla karşılaşıyor ve hikaye başlıyor. Yüzbaşı Giles tam bir görev adamıydı ve Juliada her duruma adepte olmaya çalışan zeki bir kadın. Aralarındaki elektrik güzeldi. Tam araları bozuldu derken ortaya bir noel mucizesi çıktı :) güzel bir hikayeydi.
Edisyonun ikinci kitabı Sophia James'in Kendini Aşka Bırak adlı kitabıydı. Kitap olaya çok hızlı başlamıştı. Karakterler çat diye tanıştı. Tamam bu bir harlequin ama olaya birden girmeleri insanda sanki öncesi vardı ama kesmişler midir nedir havası uyandırıyordu. Bu durum hikayenin bütününe yayılmıştı. Karakterlerle bir bağ kurmaya çalışıyorsunuz ama hikaye çok hızlı akıyor bu da hikayeyi yüzeysel kılmıştı. En beğenmediğim bu diyebilirim. Öpüştüklerinde bile hiç bir duygu geçiremedi. Yazar genel olarak mı böyle yoksa bu kitabı mı çok kötüydü bilemiyorum. Sadece bu kitap olsaydı bir puan bile verebilirdim. Boş vaktiniz varsa bile okumanızı tavsiye etmem.
Edisyonun üçüncü kitabı ve bu üç hikaye içerisinde en çok sevdiğim Anne Burrows'un Bir mucize gibi adlı kitabıydı. Bu hikaye ilk hikayeye nazaran daha sevimliydi. Çocuklar olaya neşe katmıştı. Hiç bir şey gereksiz değildi. Alice düşünceli bir karakterdi, yüzbaşı çocuklarıyla ilgilenmek isteyen ama ne yapacağını bilemeyen bir babaydı. Tabi gönül isterdi ki şöyle uzun uzun çiftin hikayesini okuyalım ama uzatmadan bitirmişlerdi. Kısa olması sayesinde problemlerde hemen çözüldü. Ee Noel mucizesi geldi sonuçta. Çıtır çerezlik güzel bir kitaptı.
December 18, 2016
Harlequin are truly spoiling their readers this Christmas with Once Upon a Regency Christmas, a charming collection of Yuletide stories from three of their finest writers – Louise Allen, Sophia James and Annie Burrows.
On a Winter’s Eve – Louise Allen
Louise Allen is one of the best writers of historical romance writing today and she is on top form with On a Winter’s Eve, a witty, warm-hearted and irresistible tale of redemption, second chances and forbidden desire sure to hold readers in thrall from start to finish!
Louise Allen never fails to deliver and in On A Winter’s Eve she has penned a stirring, emotional and highly enjoyable romantic tale that will charm, delight and entice readers everywhere. With a dashing hero, an intelligent heroine, a mischievous turkey and plenty of passion, drama and pathos to keep readers engrossed, On a Winter’s Eve is another outstanding tale from Louise Allen’s inimitable pen!
Marriage Made at Christmas – Sophia James
Wonderfully nuanced, emotionally satisfying and wholly mesmerizing, Marriage Made at Christmas is a poignant romantic tale from award-winning author Sophia James.
Marriage Made at Christmas is a delightful historical romance that will tug at reader’s heartstrings and make them shed a tear or two. Despite the limited word count, Marriage Made at Christmas does not skimp on the emotion or the pathos and readers are sure to be swept away by this powerfully written tale of hope, healing from the past and the power of love.
Compelling, emotional and beautifully written, Marriage Made at Christmas is a captivating romantic tale from a very talented writer of historical romance.
Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas – Annie Burrows
Annie Burrows is my go-to author for magical, uplifting and enchanting historical romance and she has outdone herself with Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas, a fantastic story with an endearing fairy tale quality guaranteed to make readers smile and sigh with utter bliss!
Annie Burrows has done it again and penned an emotional, tender-hearted and feel-good romance that is as impossible to put down as it is to forget. Sparkling with her trademark warmth, humour and charm, Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas features a brooding hero with a heart of gold, a resilient and smart heroine readers will adore, a terrific cast of secondary characters and wit, drama, sensuality and enthralling romance by the bucket-load!
A first-class historical romance that ticks all the right boxes, Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas is the latest in a long line of exceptional stories from a fantastic storyteller – Annie Burrows!
Written with plenty of flair, sensitivity and style, Once Upon a Regency Christmas is a must-have anthology every historical romance reader should have on her keeper shelf.
On a Winter’s Eve – Louise Allen
Louise Allen is one of the best writers of historical romance writing today and she is on top form with On a Winter’s Eve, a witty, warm-hearted and irresistible tale of redemption, second chances and forbidden desire sure to hold readers in thrall from start to finish!
Louise Allen never fails to deliver and in On A Winter’s Eve she has penned a stirring, emotional and highly enjoyable romantic tale that will charm, delight and entice readers everywhere. With a dashing hero, an intelligent heroine, a mischievous turkey and plenty of passion, drama and pathos to keep readers engrossed, On a Winter’s Eve is another outstanding tale from Louise Allen’s inimitable pen!
Marriage Made at Christmas – Sophia James
Wonderfully nuanced, emotionally satisfying and wholly mesmerizing, Marriage Made at Christmas is a poignant romantic tale from award-winning author Sophia James.
Marriage Made at Christmas is a delightful historical romance that will tug at reader’s heartstrings and make them shed a tear or two. Despite the limited word count, Marriage Made at Christmas does not skimp on the emotion or the pathos and readers are sure to be swept away by this powerfully written tale of hope, healing from the past and the power of love.
Compelling, emotional and beautifully written, Marriage Made at Christmas is a captivating romantic tale from a very talented writer of historical romance.
Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas – Annie Burrows
Annie Burrows is my go-to author for magical, uplifting and enchanting historical romance and she has outdone herself with Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas, a fantastic story with an endearing fairy tale quality guaranteed to make readers smile and sigh with utter bliss!
Annie Burrows has done it again and penned an emotional, tender-hearted and feel-good romance that is as impossible to put down as it is to forget. Sparkling with her trademark warmth, humour and charm, Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas features a brooding hero with a heart of gold, a resilient and smart heroine readers will adore, a terrific cast of secondary characters and wit, drama, sensuality and enthralling romance by the bucket-load!
A first-class historical romance that ticks all the right boxes, Cinderella’s Perfect Christmas is the latest in a long line of exceptional stories from a fantastic storyteller – Annie Burrows!
Written with plenty of flair, sensitivity and style, Once Upon a Regency Christmas is a must-have anthology every historical romance reader should have on her keeper shelf.
May 29, 2017
Once Upon a Regency Christmas is a lovely Christmassy book containing three novella-length, Christmas-themed, Regency romances by Louise Allen, Sophia James and Annie Burrows. I am a huge fan of both Louise Allen and Annie Burrows, and have read all their books, but Sophia James is new to me. The theme running through all three stories is that the heroes might not be quite who they seem to be.
On a Winter's Eve by Louise Allen
Lady Julia Charlcott is newly arrived in England from India. Her much older husband has died but her plans to re-enter English society is thwarted when she overhears her sister-in-law bargaining with a gentleman over what he would pay if Julia were to wed him. Furious, Julia walks out, intending to have a traditional Christmas at her late husband's home in the country. Unfortunately she heads straight into a snowstorm, where she meets Captain Giles Markham trudging through the snow with a live turkey...
Marriage Made at Christmas by Sophia James
Christine Howard's heart has been frozen since the death of her fiance but when her life is saved by a mysterious American, she can feel herself begin to thaw. Hired as her bodyguard, it is soon clear William Miller would risk everything to protect her - but what if Christine is not the target?
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas by Annie Burrows
When Alice Waverley catches a cold, she realises it is the perfect excuse to spend Christmas home alone, doing exactly as she pleases, while her horrible relatives head off to a country house party. Unfortunately they've only been gone a few hours when Captain Jack Grayling and his two young children arrive at the house seeking shelter from the snow.
I loved On a Winter's Eve and Cinderella's Perfect Christmas because they were both very traditional, Christmassy stories - just the thing to read to get into the Christmas spirit. The characters decorated the house, created presents from very little, were snowed in and built snowmen. I loved the tale of the escaped turkey from On a Winter's Eve and the wry, wicked humour of Cinderella's Christmas. Marriage Made at Christmas was not quite so festive as the other two stories, but I did enjoy the very different story of the scarred bodyguard searching for his own happy ever after.
Definitely recommended!
(I received my copy of Once Upon a Regency Christmas directly from one of the authors)
On a Winter's Eve by Louise Allen
Lady Julia Charlcott is newly arrived in England from India. Her much older husband has died but her plans to re-enter English society is thwarted when she overhears her sister-in-law bargaining with a gentleman over what he would pay if Julia were to wed him. Furious, Julia walks out, intending to have a traditional Christmas at her late husband's home in the country. Unfortunately she heads straight into a snowstorm, where she meets Captain Giles Markham trudging through the snow with a live turkey...
Marriage Made at Christmas by Sophia James
Christine Howard's heart has been frozen since the death of her fiance but when her life is saved by a mysterious American, she can feel herself begin to thaw. Hired as her bodyguard, it is soon clear William Miller would risk everything to protect her - but what if Christine is not the target?
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas by Annie Burrows
When Alice Waverley catches a cold, she realises it is the perfect excuse to spend Christmas home alone, doing exactly as she pleases, while her horrible relatives head off to a country house party. Unfortunately they've only been gone a few hours when Captain Jack Grayling and his two young children arrive at the house seeking shelter from the snow.
I loved On a Winter's Eve and Cinderella's Perfect Christmas because they were both very traditional, Christmassy stories - just the thing to read to get into the Christmas spirit. The characters decorated the house, created presents from very little, were snowed in and built snowmen. I loved the tale of the escaped turkey from On a Winter's Eve and the wry, wicked humour of Cinderella's Christmas. Marriage Made at Christmas was not quite so festive as the other two stories, but I did enjoy the very different story of the scarred bodyguard searching for his own happy ever after.
Definitely recommended!
(I received my copy of Once Upon a Regency Christmas directly from one of the authors)
December 9, 2018
One of the things that always amuses me about Regency tales is the number of dukes and earls. They are everywhere! And they are always more than willing to fall in love with and marry someone who appears to be (or actually is) below their station.
Such is the case with all three of these Christmas novellas. My favorite was "Cinderella's Perfect Christmas," in which the poor relation is left behind with two servants while the rest of the family goes to a house party in which the two daughters are hoping to meet the widowed earl who will set them up for life. Alice is the only one around when Captain Grayling, Sergeant Hopkins, and Grayling's two children appear out of a snowstorm and need shelter.
You know who Grayling turns out to be, right?
Anyway, all three stories were an interesting look at social mores, and were well-constructed romances (albeit with a healthy dose of insta-love due to the short format). This was a fun, light read for the holidays.
Such is the case with all three of these Christmas novellas. My favorite was "Cinderella's Perfect Christmas," in which the poor relation is left behind with two servants while the rest of the family goes to a house party in which the two daughters are hoping to meet the widowed earl who will set them up for life. Alice is the only one around when Captain Grayling, Sergeant Hopkins, and Grayling's two children appear out of a snowstorm and need shelter.
You know who Grayling turns out to be, right?
Anyway, all three stories were an interesting look at social mores, and were well-constructed romances (albeit with a healthy dose of insta-love due to the short format). This was a fun, light read for the holidays.
November 13, 2018
Fazlaca vaktim olmadığımda kısa kısa HH okumaya bayılıyorum. Bir önceki yeni yıl seçkisi gibi bu seçki de oldukça güzeldi. Hikayeler arasından en çok sonuncuyu beğendim. 2. Hikaye ise çok daha geniş bir romana konu olup daha detaylıca işlenseydi daha güzel olabilirdi. Sonuç olarak ortalama bir Harlequin kitabından kat kat iyiydi. Süreli yayın olduğu için bulunması zor ama denk gelirseniz alıp okuyabileceğiniz bir kitap.
September 24, 2017
On a Winter's Eve By, Louise Allen - 4 Stars
This was a really fun story and I enjoyed seeing the instant attraction between Lady Julia Chalcott and Captain Giles Markham as well as seeing how they each try to figure out what they want in their future as well as what relationship they want from the other. The turkey that Captain Giles Markham rescued was also an entertaining side character.
Marriage Made at Christmas By, Sophia James - 4 Stars
I really enjoyed seeing how the plot unfolded in this story and getting to know Christine and William. I thought the author did a really good job of putting a lot of details about their pasts into the story to show what made them who they were and I enjoyed seeing how their romance developed as well as how their individual stories/concerns came together before being solved.
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas By, Annie Burrows - 5 Stars
This was such a sweet story with several characters that I really liked. The romance between Alice and Captain Jack Grayling was really fun to watch develop but I really loved seeing how they interacted with his children. I loved seeing his son Harry come out of his shell during the story as well as seeing how protective he was of his little sister Isabella. The servants Billy and Susan were also really fun and I loved seeing how everyone in the house came together to help each other and make the holidays the best they could.
This was a really fun story and I enjoyed seeing the instant attraction between Lady Julia Chalcott and Captain Giles Markham as well as seeing how they each try to figure out what they want in their future as well as what relationship they want from the other. The turkey that Captain Giles Markham rescued was also an entertaining side character.
Marriage Made at Christmas By, Sophia James - 4 Stars
I really enjoyed seeing how the plot unfolded in this story and getting to know Christine and William. I thought the author did a really good job of putting a lot of details about their pasts into the story to show what made them who they were and I enjoyed seeing how their romance developed as well as how their individual stories/concerns came together before being solved.
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas By, Annie Burrows - 5 Stars
This was such a sweet story with several characters that I really liked. The romance between Alice and Captain Jack Grayling was really fun to watch develop but I really loved seeing how they interacted with his children. I loved seeing his son Harry come out of his shell during the story as well as seeing how protective he was of his little sister Isabella. The servants Billy and Susan were also really fun and I loved seeing how everyone in the house came together to help each other and make the holidays the best they could.
March 20, 2017
The Once upon idea kinda falls flat but the stories aren't bad.
The first story "On a Winter's Eve" by Louise Allen is a story of a showbound Christmas with an escaped turkey. Features a clever woman who made money despite her spendthrift husband, and pretending to be poor to try to avoid a marriage for her cash not her self, which almost backfires.
Marriage Made at Christmas by Sophia James is all about a mistaken identity and assumption, with a side order of tortured childhood past. Could possibly have been better as a full book, well spiced with crazy though.
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas by Annie Burrows, not sure if he was poor or beset upon. Man intrudes on Cinderella/ Alice Waverly who is enjoying time off from dealing with her demanding family to have a well-earned rest with two of the servants when Captain Jack Grayling hammers on the door with two children. There felt like a lot of things were unresolved by the end.
The first story "On a Winter's Eve" by Louise Allen is a story of a showbound Christmas with an escaped turkey. Features a clever woman who made money despite her spendthrift husband, and pretending to be poor to try to avoid a marriage for her cash not her self, which almost backfires.
Marriage Made at Christmas by Sophia James is all about a mistaken identity and assumption, with a side order of tortured childhood past. Could possibly have been better as a full book, well spiced with crazy though.
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas by Annie Burrows, not sure if he was poor or beset upon. Man intrudes on Cinderella/ Alice Waverly who is enjoying time off from dealing with her demanding family to have a well-earned rest with two of the servants when Captain Jack Grayling hammers on the door with two children. There felt like a lot of things were unresolved by the end.
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November 1, 2016"These three charming, desire-in-disguise holiday stories are designed to to lighten reader’s burdens during the hectic season. A trio of accomplished Regency authors have created delightfully, fully fleshed out characters, including a wild turkey and precious children, sexual tension and engaging plots in a few short pages" (RT Book Reviews).
November 28, 2016
Once Upon a Recency Christmas By Louise Allen
Four stars..Good romantic traditional Christmas stories..Good authors as well as good storylines...Little sensual but romantic..The last story was too short.
Four stars..Good romantic traditional Christmas stories..Good authors as well as good storylines...Little sensual but romantic..The last story was too short.
November 19, 2016
ON A WINTER'S EVE by Louise Allen
3/5
MARRIAGE MADE AT CHRISTMAS by Sophia James
2.5/5
CINDERELLA'S PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Annie Burrows
4/5
3/5
MARRIAGE MADE AT CHRISTMAS by Sophia James
2.5/5
CINDERELLA'S PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Annie Burrows
4/5
December 14, 2016
A trio of Regency era romances, all with the central theme of Christmas.
January 5, 2017
Three enjoyable Mills & Boon stories - by three leading authors of Regency.
4****
4****
January 19, 2017
Even during the hub-bub of the holidays, I love to take a few moments for myself and curl up with a good book. What better than three short stories of the Christmas season. I enjoyed them all.
December 14, 2017
It is very rare to find an anthology where all three of the stories are really bad.
September 5, 2017
The first story comes from Louise Allen. It is called "On a Winter's Eve." One thing a reader can always count on is Ms. Allen's accurate depiction of the time. Captain Giles Markam earned his captainacy through a Forlorn Hope mission, but he must sell out his commission because of a family obligation. Returning home, he encounters Lady Julia Chalcott, a widow who has been on her own since the age of 16, when her father died and the new earl sent her to India to find a husband. They are two souls not quite ready for what is to become of their futures. Giles is blinded by his past, but eventually he is led to a better understanding of Julia's character.
Sophia James brings us "Marriage Made at Christmas." Lady Christine Howard has been warned off her charitable work. William Miller, the man hired to protect her, has an "impossible" past. This was my least favorite of the stories. I found the ending a bit too contrived. Warrington's escape does not feel of "justice." I also found the advent scene at the end to be too "preachy" and set in sharp contrast to the lovemaking scene.
Annie Burrow's "Cinderella's Perfect Christmas" was story #3. Captain Jack Grayling's children have been with his wife's mother while he was away in the war. Grayling, his children, and Sgt. Hopkins beg for shelter from a storm. Alice Waverly is the poor relation of her Cartwright family. She is home while the Cartwrights are away for Christmas. She does not know Grayling has been made an earl. Alice and Jack's relationship grows from there. A few facts need to be reconciled in the book. For example, in chapter 7, she says he cannot triple her wages for she earns nothing, but in chapter 7, Jack refers to Alice as mercenary and conniving.
I would give this book a 3.75.
Sophia James brings us "Marriage Made at Christmas." Lady Christine Howard has been warned off her charitable work. William Miller, the man hired to protect her, has an "impossible" past. This was my least favorite of the stories. I found the ending a bit too contrived. Warrington's escape does not feel of "justice." I also found the advent scene at the end to be too "preachy" and set in sharp contrast to the lovemaking scene.
Annie Burrow's "Cinderella's Perfect Christmas" was story #3. Captain Jack Grayling's children have been with his wife's mother while he was away in the war. Grayling, his children, and Sgt. Hopkins beg for shelter from a storm. Alice Waverly is the poor relation of her Cartwright family. She is home while the Cartwrights are away for Christmas. She does not know Grayling has been made an earl. Alice and Jack's relationship grows from there. A few facts need to be reconciled in the book. For example, in chapter 7, she says he cannot triple her wages for she earns nothing, but in chapter 7, Jack refers to Alice as mercenary and conniving.
I would give this book a 3.75.
July 29, 2018
A trio of well written Christmas stories. This was my first time reading Sophia James, whose work I enjoyed a lot and immediately purchased more of her stories to read upon finishing her contribution. Annie Burrows story was also very good, even if the H and h fell in love and got married over the course of two days. (A little bit Disney!) But it was so well written that trope is easily dismissed. I loved the characters in Louise Allen’s story a lot, but a sudden misunderstanding very late in the game soured it for me a bit, though it turned out well in the end. I’d love to read more about Miri someday. As I mentioned, all three are very well written. It’d be a hard choice picking my favorite. Definitely recommended to put you in the holiday spirit!
October 14, 2020
A wonderful collection of seasonal story's
This is a wonderful collection of story's, that will keep you entertained. The plots are brilliantly crafted and the characters beautifully portrayed. This is a collection that would suit anybody who loves spicy historical romances that have plenty of intrigue.
This is a wonderful collection of story's, that will keep you entertained. The plots are brilliantly crafted and the characters beautifully portrayed. This is a collection that would suit anybody who loves spicy historical romances that have plenty of intrigue.
December 1, 2022
Cute. Middling. I find regency Christmas anthologies as cheerily nostalgic as many people do hallmark Christmas movies, because I read them as a teenager. This was cute and fun. As always with short stories, these people fall in love in like two days, and of course, this one was fairy tale based so there was a lot of “secretly he’s an heir to a fortune,” but that’s the whole charm, right?
December 25, 2023
The first one was meh, hated the second one (the couple are getting intimate and she essentially compares herself to his horse ffs), and the third one was my favorite. The problem with romance novellas is that they essentially have to be love at first sight, and it's hard to make a relationship believable in such a short amount of time. I'll stick to full-length novels from now on.
February 28, 2022
randomly picked up this book at my dentist's office while waiting for my appointment. continue reading it during my appointment, and finished it. love the sweet stories, especially the third one. reading christmas love stories always brought warmth to my heart. love it!
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October 31, 2024Three delightful novella to bring joy and hope this Christmas
November 7, 2024
Three enjoyable stories
Each one of these stories was very different, but each was enjoyable. The time period for falling in love is extremely short, but these are short stories.
Each one of these stories was very different, but each was enjoyable. The time period for falling in love is extremely short, but these are short stories.
October 24, 2025
Three fails. Hard to believe these three well known and generally successful authors came up with this drek.
September 23, 2017
Cinderella's Perfect Christmas by, Annie Burrows was a really sweet Christmas Regency story.
December 15, 2018
Two 5 stars and one four star
There were similarities between the two 5 star stories: a snow storm, an ex-soldier about to take on a new role and omissions on status/wealth. But they had a totally different feel.
In Louise Allen’s story, Julia is a young widow traveling to her husband’s run down house. She rescues Giles who has gotten lost in a snow storm. Julia is rich thanks to her own ingenuity and is weary of men who only want to marry her for her money. Giles is on his way to a bankrupt estate needing to find a wealthy wife. They were both characters I admired.
In AnnIe Burrows’ story, Alice is a poor relative who doesn’t have much of a future. Captain Jack and his two children are in much need of the kindness and warmth Alice has to offer.
Sophia Jamie’s’ story Christine is an aristocrat who designs clothes and runs a business to support the poor. Will is an American who appears to be a groom. Their characters were full of angst and a bit too much melodramatic.
There were similarities between the two 5 star stories: a snow storm, an ex-soldier about to take on a new role and omissions on status/wealth. But they had a totally different feel.
In Louise Allen’s story, Julia is a young widow traveling to her husband’s run down house. She rescues Giles who has gotten lost in a snow storm. Julia is rich thanks to her own ingenuity and is weary of men who only want to marry her for her money. Giles is on his way to a bankrupt estate needing to find a wealthy wife. They were both characters I admired.
In AnnIe Burrows’ story, Alice is a poor relative who doesn’t have much of a future. Captain Jack and his two children are in much need of the kindness and warmth Alice has to offer.
Sophia Jamie’s’ story Christine is an aristocrat who designs clothes and runs a business to support the poor. Will is an American who appears to be a groom. Their characters were full of angst and a bit too much melodramatic.
July 19, 2018
Started this awhile ago. So long ago I changed it from "Reading" to "Want to Read". Now I'm back to it. I can't remember Louise Allen's story at all even though I read the other reviews but I know I at least liked it. So two stars.
Sophia James has been a hit mostly miss author for me and this novella was a total miss. I'm giving up on Sophia James completely. She has great ideas but they don't flesh out for me.
I couldn't even get into the third story.
Sophia James has been a hit mostly miss author for me and this novella was a total miss. I'm giving up on Sophia James completely. She has great ideas but they don't flesh out for me.
I couldn't even get into the third story.
February 22, 2021
This is a wonderful collection of story's, that will keep you entertained. The plots are brilliantly crafted and the characters beautifully portrayed. This is a collection that would suit anybody who loves spicy historical romances that have plenty of intrigue.
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