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Christmas at Castle Keyvnor #4
Tempted at Christmas
The Earl and Countess of Banfield cordially request your attendance at the wedding for their daughters: Lady Tamsyn Hambly to Mr. Gryffyn Cardew, & Lady Morgan Hambly to Harold Mort, Viscount Blackwater, on the 24th day of December, 1811, at Castle Keyvnor, Bocka Morrow, Cornwall.
"And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree" by Kate Pearce
When stuffy Benjamin Priske, Baron Saxelby, heir to the Earl of Widcome arrives at Castle Keyvnor, he not only falls in love at first sight, but is accidentally mistaken for his valet. As he spends time with Henrietta, the witty, beautiful, and self-assured granddaughter of the castle housekeeper, he’s increasingly reluctant to reveal his true identity and spoil the most remarkable days of his life. Can Benjamin overcome his rigid nature, embrace the magical nature of Keyvnor castle, and maybe indulge in a fairytale romance all of his own?
"His Mistletoe Miss" by Jane Charles
Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave, has always done what was expected of his title and station. Ever the dutiful son, he abides by his mother’s requests even when they tend to the ridiculous. There is no other reason, after all, that he would visit a gypsy camp to acquire a piece of magical mistletoe that should direct him to the path of true love. Luckily at the gypsy camp, he happens upon the one lady he’s always wanted to court. Unfortunately, she’s in love with her guardian…
Miss Holly Prescott is not in love with her guardian. It is her duty, however, to make certain that nefarious young ladies with hopes of becoming his duchess, don’t trap him into a loveless marriage. While attending the Christmas Eve weddings at Castle Keyvnor, Holly learns that the nearby gypsies could be of help in that regard. However, she did not expect to stumble upon the handsome and oh-so-honorable Lord Redgrave in the process.
"A Merry Devil" by Elizabeth Essex
Captain Matthew Kent has always been bound by his service to the Royal Navy. But when the Admiralty rewards him handsomely for cleaning out a nest of Cornwall smugglers, he is tempted to throw it all away for a second chance with Tressa Teague, the very woman he should not admire—a smuggler.
Tressa is the daughter of the vicar, expected to be everything sweetness and light. But instead she has the heart of a pirate. She thought she’d seen the last of the dangerous sea captain who left her heartbroken before. But when he returns to the rugged coast of Cornwall to offer her the chance of a lifetime, will she lose her freedom, or only her heart?
"And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree" by Kate Pearce
When stuffy Benjamin Priske, Baron Saxelby, heir to the Earl of Widcome arrives at Castle Keyvnor, he not only falls in love at first sight, but is accidentally mistaken for his valet. As he spends time with Henrietta, the witty, beautiful, and self-assured granddaughter of the castle housekeeper, he’s increasingly reluctant to reveal his true identity and spoil the most remarkable days of his life. Can Benjamin overcome his rigid nature, embrace the magical nature of Keyvnor castle, and maybe indulge in a fairytale romance all of his own?
"His Mistletoe Miss" by Jane Charles
Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave, has always done what was expected of his title and station. Ever the dutiful son, he abides by his mother’s requests even when they tend to the ridiculous. There is no other reason, after all, that he would visit a gypsy camp to acquire a piece of magical mistletoe that should direct him to the path of true love. Luckily at the gypsy camp, he happens upon the one lady he’s always wanted to court. Unfortunately, she’s in love with her guardian…
Miss Holly Prescott is not in love with her guardian. It is her duty, however, to make certain that nefarious young ladies with hopes of becoming his duchess, don’t trap him into a loveless marriage. While attending the Christmas Eve weddings at Castle Keyvnor, Holly learns that the nearby gypsies could be of help in that regard. However, she did not expect to stumble upon the handsome and oh-so-honorable Lord Redgrave in the process.
"A Merry Devil" by Elizabeth Essex
Captain Matthew Kent has always been bound by his service to the Royal Navy. But when the Admiralty rewards him handsomely for cleaning out a nest of Cornwall smugglers, he is tempted to throw it all away for a second chance with Tressa Teague, the very woman he should not admire—a smuggler.
Tressa is the daughter of the vicar, expected to be everything sweetness and light. But instead she has the heart of a pirate. She thought she’d seen the last of the dangerous sea captain who left her heartbroken before. But when he returns to the rugged coast of Cornwall to offer her the chance of a lifetime, will she lose her freedom, or only her heart?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2017
18 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Kate Pearce
164 books1,848 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kate Pearce was born in England in the middle of a large family of girls and quickly found that her imagination was far more interesting than real life. After acquiring a degree in history and barely escaping from the British Civil Service alive, she moved to California and then to Hawaii with her kids and her husband and set about reinventing herself as a romance writer.
She is known for both her unconventional heroes and her joy at subverting romance clichés. In her spare time she self publishes science fiction erotic romance, historical romance, and whatever else she can imagine. You can find Kate on katepearce.com.
She is known for both her unconventional heroes and her joy at subverting romance clichés. In her spare time she self publishes science fiction erotic romance, historical romance, and whatever else she can imagine. You can find Kate on katepearce.com.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 28, 2017
This is an ongoing saga written by many authors weaving stories that have characters that interact with each other. I was offered this an arc of this particular one because I am on Kate Pearce's ARC review team. It was fascinating with all the characters and I didn't have trouble jumping into the middle of all of the stories cold. That was a feat.
It starts with Elizabeth Essex's A Merry Devil. I met Elizabeth last year at the HRR and this was the first of her stories I have read. I am glad to say her writing is as delightful as she is as a person. I was drawn to her from the first and I found her heroine, Tressa Teague, a strong, independant woman who struggles under the restrictions of her time period. She is a younger, unmarried daughter of the local Vicar who aids in the community of Bocka Morrow's smuggling operation. She's the brains and foreman of the operation even if it's unacknowledged as she's a woman. In a previous story she aids our hero Captain Matthew Kent capture a traitor. His career has taken a promotion because of her unrecognized help. He recognizes the jewel she is with her formable intelligence and takes her suggestion as to how they could severely hurt the French with a nighttime sneak attack on the traitor's base of operation. Oh I loved the development of this story and how surprised Benjamin is when he realizes he loves Tressa. Fabulous job Elizabeth! I will be reading more of your stories.
The second story is Kate Pearce's And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree. This is about Henrietta, the granddaughter of Castle Keyvnor's housekeeper, the formidable Mrs Bray. Henrietta grew up at the castle, has been on her own for years, and is on her way to London to see her deceased father's solicitor after Christmas. She agrees to help out while she's there for a roof over her head. Our hero, the stuffy, always doing the right thing, Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave arrives after everyone is tucked in bed and Henrietta assumes he is a valet that they expected earlier in the evening. She scoots him off to his room in the attics and Anthony's adventure begins on the other side of the kitchens. He doesn't correct anyone and decides to find out what it feels like to do what he wants, not what is expected. He rapidly falls for Henrietta and seeks how vacant his life was. I really enjoyed the surprises that arose within the story that I'm not gonna give away. Great story of switching places and exploring class distinctions.
The last story was by Jane Charles, His Mistletoe Miss. I liked this one and Jane was totally new to me. She must write "clean" romance based on this story. I was also bothered by lots of loose dangling story threads that won't be resolved until future stories are written. This one is Holly Prescott who is the unmarried ward of Ethan, Duke of Westbury. She spends lots of time protecting him from mercenary maids determined to be the very rich Duchess of Westbury. Our hero is Viscount Anthony Beck who mistakenly assumes Holly is in love with the clueless Ethan. Wrong, oh so very wrong. He's been half mooning over for three years. When he discovers she's only being a good "sister" to Ethan, he pursues her. There are ghosts and gypsy magic woven through this story.
Thank you ladies for the free ARC for this review.
It starts with Elizabeth Essex's A Merry Devil. I met Elizabeth last year at the HRR and this was the first of her stories I have read. I am glad to say her writing is as delightful as she is as a person. I was drawn to her from the first and I found her heroine, Tressa Teague, a strong, independant woman who struggles under the restrictions of her time period. She is a younger, unmarried daughter of the local Vicar who aids in the community of Bocka Morrow's smuggling operation. She's the brains and foreman of the operation even if it's unacknowledged as she's a woman. In a previous story she aids our hero Captain Matthew Kent capture a traitor. His career has taken a promotion because of her unrecognized help. He recognizes the jewel she is with her formable intelligence and takes her suggestion as to how they could severely hurt the French with a nighttime sneak attack on the traitor's base of operation. Oh I loved the development of this story and how surprised Benjamin is when he realizes he loves Tressa. Fabulous job Elizabeth! I will be reading more of your stories.
The second story is Kate Pearce's And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree. This is about Henrietta, the granddaughter of Castle Keyvnor's housekeeper, the formidable Mrs Bray. Henrietta grew up at the castle, has been on her own for years, and is on her way to London to see her deceased father's solicitor after Christmas. She agrees to help out while she's there for a roof over her head. Our hero, the stuffy, always doing the right thing, Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave arrives after everyone is tucked in bed and Henrietta assumes he is a valet that they expected earlier in the evening. She scoots him off to his room in the attics and Anthony's adventure begins on the other side of the kitchens. He doesn't correct anyone and decides to find out what it feels like to do what he wants, not what is expected. He rapidly falls for Henrietta and seeks how vacant his life was. I really enjoyed the surprises that arose within the story that I'm not gonna give away. Great story of switching places and exploring class distinctions.
The last story was by Jane Charles, His Mistletoe Miss. I liked this one and Jane was totally new to me. She must write "clean" romance based on this story. I was also bothered by lots of loose dangling story threads that won't be resolved until future stories are written. This one is Holly Prescott who is the unmarried ward of Ethan, Duke of Westbury. She spends lots of time protecting him from mercenary maids determined to be the very rich Duchess of Westbury. Our hero is Viscount Anthony Beck who mistakenly assumes Holly is in love with the clueless Ethan. Wrong, oh so very wrong. He's been half mooning over for three years. When he discovers she's only being a good "sister" to Ethan, he pursues her. There are ghosts and gypsy magic woven through this story.
Thank you ladies for the free ARC for this review.
October 21, 2017
I had the pleasure of reading the The Haunting of Castle Keyvnor series and I loved it so much that of course I couldn’t let the chance of reading these stories pass. Although the stories pretty much take place in the same setting they are not wholly intertwined so there is no specific order in which to read the books.
The first story, Elizabeth Essex's A Merry Devil was a mix of a second-chance romance with a thrilling adventure. I particularly liked the way the relationship between the main couple developed and the little detail about the hero’s abilities was hidden until the end that also explained much about his past.
The second story was And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree by Kate Pearce. A mistaken identity of sorts created the perfected setting for a romantic tale where the hero falls for the woman that sees the man and not the title for the first time ever. If only he could forget about the responsibilities that said title represented. This one had me laughing out loud and even though I kind of saw that end coming I was still hoping it ended the way it did.
Last but not least was Jane Charles' His Mistletoe Miss. This was a sweet, clean story –no steamy or graphic sexy scenes- and the one with the most spirits and magical aspects. I thought the enchanted mistletoe was a lovely Christmas touch and the fact that it kept flourishing at the most unexpected times kept the story light.
All in all in was great read and I absolutely recommend it. I will continue reading the series and will read more from each author.
** I was gifted a copy of this book and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.**
The first story, Elizabeth Essex's A Merry Devil was a mix of a second-chance romance with a thrilling adventure. I particularly liked the way the relationship between the main couple developed and the little detail about the hero’s abilities was hidden until the end that also explained much about his past.
The second story was And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree by Kate Pearce. A mistaken identity of sorts created the perfected setting for a romantic tale where the hero falls for the woman that sees the man and not the title for the first time ever. If only he could forget about the responsibilities that said title represented. This one had me laughing out loud and even though I kind of saw that end coming I was still hoping it ended the way it did.
Last but not least was Jane Charles' His Mistletoe Miss. This was a sweet, clean story –no steamy or graphic sexy scenes- and the one with the most spirits and magical aspects. I thought the enchanted mistletoe was a lovely Christmas touch and the fact that it kept flourishing at the most unexpected times kept the story light.
All in all in was great read and I absolutely recommend it. I will continue reading the series and will read more from each author.
** I was gifted a copy of this book and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.**
January 20, 2021
Elizabeth Essex’s story was why I dove into this trio. As usual, her writing is fun and immersive. This story was a bit over the top for what I wanted in a short novella though. The characters nearly die on numerous occasions and their intimate scene seemed wildly uncomfortable. I wish it has been a little more “boring”! Haha. Essex does spin a good yarn though and I was easily able to finish it. 3.5 stars
Kate Pearce’s story was fun in this collection. It actually took place at the castle which I enjoyed and it all wrapped up pretty nicely with a little ghostly activity thrown in. 4 stars.
Jane Charles’ story was different. I felt the characters relied too heavily on superstition which I found annoying. There were some interesting characters in this and some magic mistletoe that kept me reading. I did feel this one was a set up for other stories in the collection. 3 stars.
Kate Pearce’s story was fun in this collection. It actually took place at the castle which I enjoyed and it all wrapped up pretty nicely with a little ghostly activity thrown in. 4 stars.
Jane Charles’ story was different. I felt the characters relied too heavily on superstition which I found annoying. There were some interesting characters in this and some magic mistletoe that kept me reading. I did feel this one was a set up for other stories in the collection. 3 stars.
October 24, 2017
This is a great addition to the series. Three authors come together to write these amazing historical reads. The stories are fast paced with loads of adventure and the characters have great chemistry. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it!
January 1, 2023
3.5 stars
October 11, 2017
Elizabeth Essex’s A Merry Devil
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤
Spice Level: 💋💋💋
*I received a copy from the authors in exchange for my honest reviews
This one is full of adventure! I was hooked as soon as she started making her plans in smuggling and loved that this connects to last years story. I loved how they thought alike and were upfront with each other. They really did set off on a dangerous adventure, but I could never see them doing anything else. I did not expect the twist with his sister at the end.
Tressa very much has the heart of a pirate and the mind for planning. She was determined to have her freedom and help other women have theirs. I loved how she knew pretty much everything about him and how she could figure out things.
Matthew knew where his heart was and it wasn’t where his family thought. I loved how he knew she was up to something and didn’t question offering her that adventure. He couldn’t fool anyone in his family.
Kate Pearce’s And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤
Spice Level: 💋💋💋
I love a love at first sight story that has the twist of mistaken identity. I was hooked right away when he arrived and all the confusion started. I loved how the name came into play a bit with the story. I did not know how it would all play out and was on the edge of my seat when he was found out because of the reactions. Loved the twist with her family! Loved seeing Benedict work his magic again.
Henrietta doesn’t expect much from anyone because of her family and past. I loved that she spoke her mind and decided what she wanted with no regrets. She had her reasons for thinking the way she did.
Benjamin has always taken care of others and never expected to be mistaken for his valet. I loved him right away because he got caught up in being free and not being seen for only his title. He knew what his heart wanted and went for it.
Jane Charles’ His Mistletoe Miss
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤
Spice Level: 💋1/2
This hooked me from the start because of the ghosts being around so many things going on. The mistletoe was a very unique item and I loved how it didn’t work the way he thought it would. I loved how they both thought the other loved someone else or didn’t notice the other. The treasure, knights, and all the ghost being around definitely kept me wanting to know more about everything. I have another favorite ghost in this one.
Holly wasn’t afraid of the ghosts at all and was determined to protect her guardian. I loved her secret and that she would talk to the ghosts. She didn’t really hide her thoughts or feelings and was someone you would want as a friend.
Anthony was just going to make his mother happy but hoped it worked the way he wanted. I loved when he found out how she felt about her guardian and how he reacted to the mistletoe when it worked. He wasn’t going to wait either in the end.
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤
Spice Level: 💋💋💋
*I received a copy from the authors in exchange for my honest reviews
This one is full of adventure! I was hooked as soon as she started making her plans in smuggling and loved that this connects to last years story. I loved how they thought alike and were upfront with each other. They really did set off on a dangerous adventure, but I could never see them doing anything else. I did not expect the twist with his sister at the end.
Tressa very much has the heart of a pirate and the mind for planning. She was determined to have her freedom and help other women have theirs. I loved how she knew pretty much everything about him and how she could figure out things.
Matthew knew where his heart was and it wasn’t where his family thought. I loved how he knew she was up to something and didn’t question offering her that adventure. He couldn’t fool anyone in his family.
Kate Pearce’s And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤
Spice Level: 💋💋💋
I love a love at first sight story that has the twist of mistaken identity. I was hooked right away when he arrived and all the confusion started. I loved how the name came into play a bit with the story. I did not know how it would all play out and was on the edge of my seat when he was found out because of the reactions. Loved the twist with her family! Loved seeing Benedict work his magic again.
Henrietta doesn’t expect much from anyone because of her family and past. I loved that she spoke her mind and decided what she wanted with no regrets. She had her reasons for thinking the way she did.
Benjamin has always taken care of others and never expected to be mistaken for his valet. I loved him right away because he got caught up in being free and not being seen for only his title. He knew what his heart wanted and went for it.
Jane Charles’ His Mistletoe Miss
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤
Spice Level: 💋1/2
This hooked me from the start because of the ghosts being around so many things going on. The mistletoe was a very unique item and I loved how it didn’t work the way he thought it would. I loved how they both thought the other loved someone else or didn’t notice the other. The treasure, knights, and all the ghost being around definitely kept me wanting to know more about everything. I have another favorite ghost in this one.
Holly wasn’t afraid of the ghosts at all and was determined to protect her guardian. I loved her secret and that she would talk to the ghosts. She didn’t really hide her thoughts or feelings and was someone you would want as a friend.
Anthony was just going to make his mother happy but hoped it worked the way he wanted. I loved when he found out how she felt about her guardian and how he reacted to the mistletoe when it worked. He wasn’t going to wait either in the end.
September 23, 2017
Elizabeth Essex's A Merry Devil
Captain Matthew Kent has always been bound by his service to the Royal Navy. But when the Admiralty rewards him handsomely for cleaning out a nest of Cornwall smugglers, he is tempted to throw it all away for a second chance with Vicar’s daughter Tressa Teague, the very woman he should not admire—a smuggler. She thought she'd seen the last of the dangerous sea captain who left her heartbroken before.
A gripping page turning novella whose pace is fast & takes you from Cornwall to France. Tressa is no shrinking violet but a strong minded intelligent woman, Matthew lives for the navy but starts to question this & also the reason he went against orders is revealed. 5 stars
Kate Pearce's And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree
When stuffy Benjamin Priske, Baron Saxelby, heir to the Earl of Widcome arrives at Castle Keyvnor, he not only falls in love at first sight, but is accidentally mistaken for his valet. As he spends time with Henrietta, the witty, beautiful, and self-assured granddaughter of Mrs Bray the castle’s housekeeper, he’s increasingly reluctant to reveal his true identity and spoil the most remarkable days of his life.
Heart warming, delightful story Benjamin is able to be himself & to be liked for himself. Henrietta had a difficult childhood but has grown into a self reliant woman. Their attraction is immediate & I thoroughly enjoyed Benjamin acting as his valet & some of the jobs he had to do. Of course Benedict helped things along. 5 stars
Jane Charles' His Mistletoe Miss
Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave, has always done what was expected of his title and station. Ever the dutiful son, he abides by his mother’s requests even when they tend to the ridiculous. Which is why he finds himself at the gypsy camp seeing Madame Boswell & being given a piece of magical mistletoe that should direct him to the path of true love. Luckily at the gypsy camp, he happens upon the one lady he’s always wanted to court Miss Holly Prescott but he believes unfortunately that she’s in love with her guardian The Duke of Westbury.
Misunderstandings abound & when the mistletoe came to life had me laughing out loud. The author is one of my must read author’s & this delightful, feel good, amusing novella doesn’t disappoint, the characterisation is very good, the story is well paced. I read it in a sitting. 5 stars
This is the fourth in this year’s Keyvnor stories & it was my favourite, three very good but very different stories that were linked together. I look forward to more novellas from the authors as there are still quite a few siblings & cousins to find their HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Captain Matthew Kent has always been bound by his service to the Royal Navy. But when the Admiralty rewards him handsomely for cleaning out a nest of Cornwall smugglers, he is tempted to throw it all away for a second chance with Vicar’s daughter Tressa Teague, the very woman he should not admire—a smuggler. She thought she'd seen the last of the dangerous sea captain who left her heartbroken before.
A gripping page turning novella whose pace is fast & takes you from Cornwall to France. Tressa is no shrinking violet but a strong minded intelligent woman, Matthew lives for the navy but starts to question this & also the reason he went against orders is revealed. 5 stars
Kate Pearce's And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree
When stuffy Benjamin Priske, Baron Saxelby, heir to the Earl of Widcome arrives at Castle Keyvnor, he not only falls in love at first sight, but is accidentally mistaken for his valet. As he spends time with Henrietta, the witty, beautiful, and self-assured granddaughter of Mrs Bray the castle’s housekeeper, he’s increasingly reluctant to reveal his true identity and spoil the most remarkable days of his life.
Heart warming, delightful story Benjamin is able to be himself & to be liked for himself. Henrietta had a difficult childhood but has grown into a self reliant woman. Their attraction is immediate & I thoroughly enjoyed Benjamin acting as his valet & some of the jobs he had to do. Of course Benedict helped things along. 5 stars
Jane Charles' His Mistletoe Miss
Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave, has always done what was expected of his title and station. Ever the dutiful son, he abides by his mother’s requests even when they tend to the ridiculous. Which is why he finds himself at the gypsy camp seeing Madame Boswell & being given a piece of magical mistletoe that should direct him to the path of true love. Luckily at the gypsy camp, he happens upon the one lady he’s always wanted to court Miss Holly Prescott but he believes unfortunately that she’s in love with her guardian The Duke of Westbury.
Misunderstandings abound & when the mistletoe came to life had me laughing out loud. The author is one of my must read author’s & this delightful, feel good, amusing novella doesn’t disappoint, the characterisation is very good, the story is well paced. I read it in a sitting. 5 stars
This is the fourth in this year’s Keyvnor stories & it was my favourite, three very good but very different stories that were linked together. I look forward to more novellas from the authors as there are still quite a few siblings & cousins to find their HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 1, 2017
'TEMPTED AT CHRISTMAS' is a Box Set with Three stories by different authors that total to about 320 pages long.
Book 1: A Merry Devil by Elizabeth Essex; Is the story of Captain Matthew Kent and Tressa Teague. This was a second chance at love story I thought. Matthew had broken Tressa heart and now he is back.
Book 2: And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree by Kate Pearce is the story of Benjamin Priske and Henrietta. This was my favorite of the stories...a instant love with a dash of misunderstanding identity. Henrietta is the granddaughter of Castle Keyvnor housekeeper. Benjamin is a titled gentleman but when he sees Henrietta he is immediately smitten! So that he pretends to be someone he is not...a servant.
Book 3: His Mistletoe Miss by Jane Charles; This is the story of Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave and Miss Holly Prescott . Anthony does anything for his mother it seems and when she asked that he gets a special mistletoe from the near by Gypsies he does so..but he is surprised to see Jane there. Anthony would marry Jane in a heartbeat but he thins she is in love with her guardian The Duke of Westbury. But Jane is only help protect him from would be women trying to trap him into marriage.
This was such a delightful book to read!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Book 1: A Merry Devil by Elizabeth Essex; Is the story of Captain Matthew Kent and Tressa Teague. This was a second chance at love story I thought. Matthew had broken Tressa heart and now he is back.
Book 2: And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree by Kate Pearce is the story of Benjamin Priske and Henrietta. This was my favorite of the stories...a instant love with a dash of misunderstanding identity. Henrietta is the granddaughter of Castle Keyvnor housekeeper. Benjamin is a titled gentleman but when he sees Henrietta he is immediately smitten! So that he pretends to be someone he is not...a servant.
Book 3: His Mistletoe Miss by Jane Charles; This is the story of Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave and Miss Holly Prescott . Anthony does anything for his mother it seems and when she asked that he gets a special mistletoe from the near by Gypsies he does so..but he is surprised to see Jane there. Anthony would marry Jane in a heartbeat but he thins she is in love with her guardian The Duke of Westbury. But Jane is only help protect him from would be women trying to trap him into marriage.
This was such a delightful book to read!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
October 9, 2017
Tempted at Christmas is a set of three novellas that take place in the same setting and with related characters. Each story can be read individually. These novellas were well-written and entertaining. And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree by Kate Pearce - Henrietta, the granddaughter of the housekeeper, and Benjamin, heir to the Earl of Widcome, meet unexpectedly and are attracted to each other at first sight. Henrietta mistakes Benjamin for his valet, and Benjamin enjoys being seen as just a man, not a title. Once all the truth is revealed, can they find a way to a happily ever after? His Mistletoe Miss by Jane Charles - Holly Prescott feels it's her duty to make sure her guardian is protected from being trapped by scheming young women into marriage. Anthony Beck, Viscount Redgrave, has wanted to court Holly for a long time, but thinks she is in love with her guardian. The magic at Castle Keyvnor brings them both to visit the gypsy camp and sparks begin to fly. A Merry Devil by Elizabeth Essex - Tressa Teague is the daughter of the village vicar, but she has the heart of a pirate. Captain Matthew Kent has been rewarded by the Admiralty for clearing out a nest of smugglers. Tressa thought she'd never see the Captain again, but he hasn't been able to forget her. I loved reading about these two, they were wonderful together. I enjoyed these novellas very much. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
October 13, 2017
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. There are three short stories: (1) A Merry Devil is the story of a second chance for Tressa and Matthew to recapture what they started previously. He is in the Navy and she is a vicar's daughter who is a smuggler on the side. They take the second chance and eventually get the HEA. (2) And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree is about a young lord mistaken for a valet and how he comes to see the inner workings of a household. He falls in love with a young girl whose grandmother is the housekeeper and decides he wants to marry her even though they are socially unequals. Later, a solicitor informs Henrietta that her father was the son of an earl and she had been left an inheritance, this puts her on the same social level as Benjamin. The story is short and a good read. (3) His Mistletoe Miss is about Holly and Anthony who notice each other but don't realize the feelings are mutual. Anthony believes Holly to be in love with her guardian but she isn't. A gypsy gave him magic mistletoe that will be green and the berries red when he is on the right path toward his true love but will turn brown and shrieval when he strays from the correct path. Eventually Holly and Anthony come together but there is a lot of fun in between.
September 26, 2017
In the first story, I wasn't that impressed with the story of Matthew and Tressa. I got bogged down several times in the nautical terms and was annoyed that Matthew was forever smiling. His actions seem more that of a spoiled child sometimes. Tressa was strong and seemed more of the Alpha in the relationship. I did like the ending though.
The second story of Henrietta and Benjamin was delightful. I loved how she automatically assumed he was a servant when he came to the kitchen door. The ghosts treated her almost as a well loved child seeing as she was raised in the castle at times. The story, however was a very nice Christmas tale!
The third story was Anthony and Holly (I do so love the name Holly in a Christmas tale!). It was a treat to see Holly accepted and being treated so well by all the castle ghosts! I adored Anthony and how he'd loved Holly for 3 years but was still gentleman enough to leave her be, thinking she was in love with Ethan! This story was a nice treat!
The second story of Henrietta and Benjamin was delightful. I loved how she automatically assumed he was a servant when he came to the kitchen door. The ghosts treated her almost as a well loved child seeing as she was raised in the castle at times. The story, however was a very nice Christmas tale!
The third story was Anthony and Holly (I do so love the name Holly in a Christmas tale!). It was a treat to see Holly accepted and being treated so well by all the castle ghosts! I adored Anthony and how he'd loved Holly for 3 years but was still gentleman enough to leave her be, thinking she was in love with Ethan! This story was a nice treat!
December 19, 2020
Another great group of romance stories with some helpful ghost
A Pigeon in A Pear Tree by Kate Pearce
Benjamin/Ben Priske, Baron Saxelby- was mistaken for a valet when he arrived at the Castle. And Henrietta- the castle housekeeper's granddaughter. A fun story with a twist and helpful ghost.
His Mistletoe Miss by Jane Charles (my favorite of the 3)
Anthony Beck/Redgrave- carries magical mistletoe in Hope's of the path to true love leads to a certain Miss. And Holly Prescott- orphaned, her guardian the Duke of Westbury she is protective of him. Fun, witty , engaging and engaging story with great character development.
A Merry Devil by Elizabeth Essex
Captain Matthew Kent - was offered a promotion .
Tressa- vicars daughter and smuggler.
All 3 stories have a wonderful HEA.
A Pigeon in A Pear Tree by Kate Pearce
Benjamin/Ben Priske, Baron Saxelby- was mistaken for a valet when he arrived at the Castle. And Henrietta- the castle housekeeper's granddaughter. A fun story with a twist and helpful ghost.
His Mistletoe Miss by Jane Charles (my favorite of the 3)
Anthony Beck/Redgrave- carries magical mistletoe in Hope's of the path to true love leads to a certain Miss. And Holly Prescott- orphaned, her guardian the Duke of Westbury she is protective of him. Fun, witty , engaging and engaging story with great character development.
A Merry Devil by Elizabeth Essex
Captain Matthew Kent - was offered a promotion .
Tressa- vicars daughter and smuggler.
All 3 stories have a wonderful HEA.
November 7, 2017
Not often a series of books captivate me to the point that I drop everything to binge read and devour all of them in almost one sitting. Each of the stories in all of the books are interwoven with interacting characters. The stories are all well written and engaging and include a little bit of magic.
Tempted at Christmas includes three stories with adventure, mistaken identity, gypsies and romances that are love at first sight, one that took three years to come to fruition and one that is a continuation from our last visit with Castle Keyvnor. A wonderful second visit to this haunted castle and I hope to get another invitation to visit!
A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
Tempted at Christmas includes three stories with adventure, mistaken identity, gypsies and romances that are love at first sight, one that took three years to come to fruition and one that is a continuation from our last visit with Castle Keyvnor. A wonderful second visit to this haunted castle and I hope to get another invitation to visit!
A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
October 13, 2017
This was a great collection of Christmas stories, which included a matchmaking ghost and pixies.
Kate Pearce’s And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree is a wonderful story about a noble man falling in love with someone he believes is not in the same class as himself. It contains the ghost from the previous Castle Keyvnor stories and a twist on historical fiction as the main male character wants to be loved for who he is not his title. The stories had great character and the supernatural elements were often funny and added so much to the stories. I enjoyed the stories and look forward to reading more of the series.
Kate Pearce’s And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree is a wonderful story about a noble man falling in love with someone he believes is not in the same class as himself. It contains the ghost from the previous Castle Keyvnor stories and a twist on historical fiction as the main male character wants to be loved for who he is not his title. The stories had great character and the supernatural elements were often funny and added so much to the stories. I enjoyed the stories and look forward to reading more of the series.
October 19, 2017
Tempted at Christmas is a collection of 3 stories from different authors based around the same characters and similar setting. I love collections like this as it's great the way the authors can write in their own style but still manage to make the connections work.
While I enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd stories immensely, I admit I struggled with the 1st, A Merry Devil, and my mind started to wander a lot. Found it very difficult to stay focused and on track.
The 2nd and 3rd stories were very engaging. I enjoyed not only the main characters but the ghosts as well. Both stories had good character development and lots of chemistry. Even some laugh out loud moments. Very enjoyable!
While I enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd stories immensely, I admit I struggled with the 1st, A Merry Devil, and my mind started to wander a lot. Found it very difficult to stay focused and on track.
The 2nd and 3rd stories were very engaging. I enjoyed not only the main characters but the ghosts as well. Both stories had good character development and lots of chemistry. Even some laugh out loud moments. Very enjoyable!
October 20, 2017
This historical romance featured novellas by three authors all centered around one wedding at Christmas. One of the things I really liked about this collection is the way the books all complimented one another but were still all stand-alone novellas. I particularly enjoyed the novella by Kate Pearce, And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree. This one featured a case of mistaken identity when the heroine, Henrietta mistakes Benjamin, the Baron as a valet. However, all three are great for getting into the holiday spirit.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.
October 17, 2017
I haven't read any of the other books set at Castle Keyvnor but will add them to my TBR list now. I loved that these were written by different authors but set at the same time and place. My favorite was Kate Pearce's "And A Pigeon In A Pear Tree". Mistaken identity and different classes make for a very sweet romance.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 21, 2017
This is the first set of Castle Keyvnor books I have read. Pretty quick reads. Although I did not expect the ghosts, I enjoyed the distinct personalities. Enjoyable characters with well defined personalities. I especially liked the female character, Henrietta in Kate Pearce's book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.
October 19, 2017
Haven't read a historical book in a while. I'm so glad I did read this one. I loved it. What a cute story.
August 13, 2018
I love these short stories by different authors. A lovely bundle of pleasure and enjoyment.
4☆
4☆
July 10, 2018
Tempted at Christmas is the fourth in the continuing series of Castle Keyvnor Christmas books. I love the way that 12 authors have come together to create 4 fun books with overlapping characters and locations all focusing on falling in love at Christmas. In this book, 3 more of my favorite authors do the holiday justice.
Elizabeth Essex starts the book off with an entertaining story called A Merry Devil. It is a tale of Matthew Captain in the Royal Navy and Tressa Teague the woman who helped him catch a traitor working for the French in the midst of a Cornwall Smuggling ring. Now Matthew is back and Tressa is as intriguing and independent as ever. Together, they plan an attack on the source of the French smuggling center. Elizabeth, has written a smart and strong heroine and a hero strong enough not to be overwhelmed by her intelligence and strength.
Kate Pearce does a fun treatment of confused identities in And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree. Benjamin, Baron Saxelby shows up at Castle Keyvnor and is thought to be his valet. He meets Henrietta, the housekeeper’s granddaughter who is stopping at the castle on her way to London to meet with her late father’s solicitor. The two are attracted to each other but their different lots in life would seem to keep them apart. Kate does a wonderful job of keeping the reader interested in the couple and pulling for them to find a way to make it together.
The final story in this book is Jane Charles’ His Mistletoe Miss. Jane’s story is a charming tale of gypsy charms and a couple who have loved each other from afar yet didn’t recognize that the other person was also in love. Anthony has been attracted to Holly since meeting her 3 years before but he assumed that she was in love with her guardian the Duke. Holly has also been attracted to Anthony but thought she had nothing to offer him. Jane draw the two together through the use of a gypsy charm and it is delightful to see if they should trust the gypsy or go with their feelings.
I received an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Elizabeth Essex starts the book off with an entertaining story called A Merry Devil. It is a tale of Matthew Captain in the Royal Navy and Tressa Teague the woman who helped him catch a traitor working for the French in the midst of a Cornwall Smuggling ring. Now Matthew is back and Tressa is as intriguing and independent as ever. Together, they plan an attack on the source of the French smuggling center. Elizabeth, has written a smart and strong heroine and a hero strong enough not to be overwhelmed by her intelligence and strength.
Kate Pearce does a fun treatment of confused identities in And a Pigeon in a Pear Tree. Benjamin, Baron Saxelby shows up at Castle Keyvnor and is thought to be his valet. He meets Henrietta, the housekeeper’s granddaughter who is stopping at the castle on her way to London to meet with her late father’s solicitor. The two are attracted to each other but their different lots in life would seem to keep them apart. Kate does a wonderful job of keeping the reader interested in the couple and pulling for them to find a way to make it together.
The final story in this book is Jane Charles’ His Mistletoe Miss. Jane’s story is a charming tale of gypsy charms and a couple who have loved each other from afar yet didn’t recognize that the other person was also in love. Anthony has been attracted to Holly since meeting her 3 years before but he assumed that she was in love with her guardian the Duke. Holly has also been attracted to Anthony but thought she had nothing to offer him. Jane draw the two together through the use of a gypsy charm and it is delightful to see if they should trust the gypsy or go with their feelings.
I received an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.
January 23, 2018
Good stories for when you want holiday spirit, but don't have 5 hours for a story. I have all the Castle Keynor books and will buy more if they continue next holiday season.
October 7, 2017
Castle Keyvnor, ghosts, pixies, Christmas, and love. Always a pleasure reading Castle Keyvnor stories!
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