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Spindle Cove #3.5
Beauty and the Blacksmith
At last, Diana gets a romance of her own! But with the last man anyone in Spindle Cove expects...
Beautiful and elegant, Miss Diana Highwood is destined to marry a wealthy, well-placed nobleman. At least, that's what her mother has loudly declared to everyone in Spindle Cove.
But Diana's not excited by dukes and lords. The only man who makes her heart pound is the village blacksmith, Aaron Dawes. By birth and fortune, they couldn't be more wrong for each other...but during stolen, steamy moments in his forge, his strong hands feel so right.
Is their love forged strong enough to last, or are they just playing with fire?
Beautiful and elegant, Miss Diana Highwood is destined to marry a wealthy, well-placed nobleman. At least, that's what her mother has loudly declared to everyone in Spindle Cove.
But Diana's not excited by dukes and lords. The only man who makes her heart pound is the village blacksmith, Aaron Dawes. By birth and fortune, they couldn't be more wrong for each other...but during stolen, steamy moments in his forge, his strong hands feel so right.
Is their love forged strong enough to last, or are they just playing with fire?
224 pages, ebook
First published April 30, 2013
625 people are currently reading
4588 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Dare
51 books15k followersSign up for Tessa's newsletter and be the first to hear about new books and hot deals! http://tessadare.com/newsletter-signup/
Tessa Dare is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of fourteen historical romance novels and five novellas. Her books have won numerous accolades, including Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA® award (twice!) and the RT Book Reviews Seal of Excellence. Booklist magazine named her one of the “new stars of historical romance," and her books have been contracted for translation in more than a dozen languages.
A librarian by training and a booklover at heart, Tessa makes her home in Southern California, where she lives with her husband, their two children, and a trio of cosmic kitties.
Tessa Dare is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of fourteen historical romance novels and five novellas. Her books have won numerous accolades, including Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA® award (twice!) and the RT Book Reviews Seal of Excellence. Booklist magazine named her one of the “new stars of historical romance," and her books have been contracted for translation in more than a dozen languages.
A librarian by training and a booklover at heart, Tessa makes her home in Southern California, where she lives with her husband, their two children, and a trio of cosmic kitties.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,342 reviews
February 28, 2017
A lady and a blacksmith fall in love, and together they find their Happily Ever After.
Realistically, this would never happen, but shrugs.
Whatever. It was cute, and I tend to give romance a bigger pass on inaccuracies because...
Because all romance novels are filled to the fucking brim with inaccurate crap. We read them because they fill a mighty need that our real-life men don't.
Mainly, they're ROMANTIC. With guys saying romantic shit that they wouldn't even know they were supposed to say, and doing swoonworthy acts of epic romantic proportions that would never even cross their minds to do.
So.
Yeah, this little scenario wouldn't have likely had such a happy ending, but I'm ok with that as long as the author can bring on the feels.
Alrighty. Aaron is the blacksmith for Spindle Cove.
And he's hawt.
Poor Diana had been eye-fucking him for 2 years, and trying to keep the drool from drizzling down her chin, all while breaking every bit of jewelry she can get her hands on, just so she can find a reason to go into his shop.
It's not a terribly complicated plot, but what do you expect from a short story?
If you're a fan of Tessa Dare's Spindle Cover series, you'll probably like this one. It was a cute little novella that scratched my fluffy romance itch this afternoon, so I'm happy with it.
Realistically, this would never happen, but shrugs.
Whatever. It was cute, and I tend to give romance a bigger pass on inaccuracies because...
Because all romance novels are filled to the fucking brim with inaccurate crap. We read them because they fill a mighty need that our real-life men don't.
Mainly, they're ROMANTIC. With guys saying romantic shit that they wouldn't even know they were supposed to say, and doing swoonworthy acts of epic romantic proportions that would never even cross their minds to do.
So.
Yeah, this little scenario wouldn't have likely had such a happy ending, but I'm ok with that as long as the author can bring on the feels.
Alrighty. Aaron is the blacksmith for Spindle Cove.
And he's hawt.
Poor Diana had been eye-fucking him for 2 years, and trying to keep the drool from drizzling down her chin, all while breaking every bit of jewelry she can get her hands on, just so she can find a reason to go into his shop.
It's not a terribly complicated plot, but what do you expect from a short story?
If you're a fan of Tessa Dare's Spindle Cover series, you'll probably like this one. It was a cute little novella that scratched my fluffy romance itch this afternoon, so I'm happy with it.
September 6, 2021
This was such a cute novella! It has the class difference trope, which is one of my favorites in historical romance. The hero is a blacksmith and I absolutely loved him! The romance was so sweet and it was fun being back in the spindle cove world!
February 6, 2017
Cute little in-between book with a romance between a daughter of a gentleman and a blacksmith. This is a big ol' no-no for back then. If men married beneath their station, they elevated the girl. But, if a girl married beneath her station, she was brought down to his class. So, for a gentleman's daughter to marry a tradesman? Not only scandalous, but she would actually lower her family name and hurt her descendants.
dramatic kitteh is right
And, in this case, it's not like he's actually getting such a prize himself. She has been taught how to do needlepoint, and maybe play the piano. However, she can't cook, clean, or be of much help to a working class man. Unless he wants his leather smithing apron to have embroidered horseshoes on it or something.
Everything is nicer when it's embroidered
She tries to make them a simple lunch and things fall apart to the point of there being a wild eel let loose upon the town's puddles.
And now it's going around telling dad jokes to all of the poor townsfolk!
Overall: cute couple, funny moments, unrealistic story.
dramatic kitteh is right
And, in this case, it's not like he's actually getting such a prize himself. She has been taught how to do needlepoint, and maybe play the piano. However, she can't cook, clean, or be of much help to a working class man. Unless he wants his leather smithing apron to have embroidered horseshoes on it or something.
Everything is nicer when it's embroidered
She tries to make them a simple lunch and things fall apart to the point of there being a wild eel let loose upon the town's puddles.
And now it's going around telling dad jokes to all of the poor townsfolk!
Overall: cute couple, funny moments, unrealistic story.
October 26, 2022
"Won't you kiss me?" she whispered, sidling close. "Just the once?"
"The thing is, Miss Highwood, I'm not interested in kissing you just the once."
"Oh." Her face fell.
He propped one finger under her chin, tilting her face back up. "If I were to kiss you, once wouldn't be enough. I'd want to kiss you many times. In lots of places."
I absolutely LOVE this novella. I've read it so many times because I love everything about Aaron and Diana's story. Aaron is such a sweetheart but still so freaking sexy. Diana's struggle is so relatable and I see myself in her fight against wanting to do what's best for her family vs what she wants. It's something I struggle with every day of my life.
Everything I love about Tessa Dare's writing is in this wonderful little story without feeling like the story is missing anything; there's love, danger, romance, swoony moments, a worthy disagreement, and a wonderful grovel scene executed by Aaron. I love every single word of this novella and will continue to reread it whenever I need something I know I love to provide comfort or get me out of a book slump. Definitely recommend reading this one to every historical romance reader or lovers of romance and swoony heroes. Another flawless story from one of my favorite authors of all-time!
Tropes: opposites attract, class difference, secret pining, working-class hero
My Aaron Dawes, the gorgeous blacksmith who's great with his hands...
August 17, 2016
Kindle Freebie as of Aug 16th, 2016 - not sure how long it'll be free, so grab it now !!! http://amzn.to/2aZeCct
4 delightfully sexy stars!
Charming, funny, romantic and sexy, Beauty and the Blacksmith is another wonderful addition to the Spindle Cove series! If you're a fan of feel good, meaningful, passionate historical romances with intelligent heroines and swoon-worthy heroes, you simply must read these books!
My thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
4 delightfully sexy stars!
Charming, funny, romantic and sexy, Beauty and the Blacksmith is another wonderful addition to the Spindle Cove series! If you're a fan of feel good, meaningful, passionate historical romances with intelligent heroines and swoon-worthy heroes, you simply must read these books!
My thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2023
This was just charming, delightful, dramatic as hell and hilarious.
3.5 ⭐️
3.5 ⭐️
August 20, 2016
Beauty and the Blacksmith by Tessa Dare is a 2013 Avon publication.
This book was free in the kindle store for a limited time last week, so I snapped it up without hesitation. This novella length story features Diana, a highborn lady, the most beautiful of her three sisters, and the daughter her mother has pinned her highest hopes on.
But, Diana is in love with Aaron Dawes, the local blacksmith, a man her mother would never approve of due to their class differences. However, after finding relief from her debilitating asthma in Spindle Cove, Diana is ready to live a little, to make her own choices and seek true happiness and love.
Aaron is more than willing to spend time with the woman he has desired for so long, but reality sets in and when the struggles become real, the couple have some hard choices to make. Is their love worth fighting for?
I’m always on the fence when it comes to novellas, since even those written by favorite authors can often disappoint. But… Tessa Dare… enough said. No way was I going to pass on this one, short story or not.
This story was a riot, laugh out loud funny, smart, witty, and super steamy, with only a sprinkling of angst.
Although, some areas are a wee bit weak, straining the boundaries of plausibility, the story is simply too divine to dribble over minor annoyances. I admit the story put me in a really good mood, and I had a lot of fun with it.
4 stars
This book was free in the kindle store for a limited time last week, so I snapped it up without hesitation. This novella length story features Diana, a highborn lady, the most beautiful of her three sisters, and the daughter her mother has pinned her highest hopes on.
But, Diana is in love with Aaron Dawes, the local blacksmith, a man her mother would never approve of due to their class differences. However, after finding relief from her debilitating asthma in Spindle Cove, Diana is ready to live a little, to make her own choices and seek true happiness and love.
Aaron is more than willing to spend time with the woman he has desired for so long, but reality sets in and when the struggles become real, the couple have some hard choices to make. Is their love worth fighting for?
I’m always on the fence when it comes to novellas, since even those written by favorite authors can often disappoint. But… Tessa Dare… enough said. No way was I going to pass on this one, short story or not.
This story was a riot, laugh out loud funny, smart, witty, and super steamy, with only a sprinkling of angst.
Although, some areas are a wee bit weak, straining the boundaries of plausibility, the story is simply too divine to dribble over minor annoyances. I admit the story put me in a really good mood, and I had a lot of fun with it.
4 stars
May 8, 2013
This novella is cavity-inducingly sweet, cutesy, and completely unrealistic even for a fluffy little Regency romance novella. I can't believe I paid for this drivel. The plot: the beautiful, thoughtful, so utterly charming and perfect Diana is madly infatuated with the village's blacksmith. Aaron knows he is completely unsuited to the beautiful, thoughtful, so utterly charming and perfect Diana, and tries to resist her for all of 2.3 seconds.
This novella is completely unrealistic, I can't even buy it even as a thinly veiled romance plot. Class differences aside (and at that time in history, they really freaking matter), Aaron seems to be a genuinely nice, competent, caring guy; after his initial stages of passion fades, I can not see them settling into a prolonged happily-ever-after after they get their happily-ever-after ending in the novella. Simply put, Diana is nice, sweet, and all that, but she is seemingly incompetent at anything but coming up with new ways to need a blacksmith's services, sneaking out of the house to see Aaron, and lying to her family.
The scene involving Diana, a fire, and the eel (which was admittedly pretty funny) was but a taste of what is to come after their marriage. The poor chit can't even set a fire, shrieks at the sight of an eel...how is she going to last 5 minutes as a wife of a blacksmith, after having led the life of an gently-born invalid (she had asthma). Much less believable is how quickly her mother assents to the marriage, after having had lifelong aspirations for her daughter to marry into nobility.
And Mr. Evermoore...I'm just speechless. As a comedic device, it could work. As a major plot device...a rat, really?
This novella is completely unrealistic, I can't even buy it even as a thinly veiled romance plot. Class differences aside (and at that time in history, they really freaking matter), Aaron seems to be a genuinely nice, competent, caring guy; after his initial stages of passion fades, I can not see them settling into a prolonged happily-ever-after after they get their happily-ever-after ending in the novella. Simply put, Diana is nice, sweet, and all that, but she is seemingly incompetent at anything but coming up with new ways to need a blacksmith's services, sneaking out of the house to see Aaron, and lying to her family.
The scene involving Diana, a fire, and the eel (which was admittedly pretty funny) was but a taste of what is to come after their marriage. The poor chit can't even set a fire, shrieks at the sight of an eel...how is she going to last 5 minutes as a wife of a blacksmith, after having led the life of an gently-born invalid (she had asthma). Much less believable is how quickly her mother assents to the marriage, after having had lifelong aspirations for her daughter to marry into nobility.
And Mr. Evermoore...I'm just speechless. As a comedic device, it could work. As a major plot device...a rat, really?
April 26, 2022
4 Hottie Blacksmith Stars!!
This was a fun little novella, I loved Diana and Aaron. They were very sweet together, and Aaron is a swoon worthy hero, he was such a nice guy, very sweet and understanding....at times a bit too understanding of Diana's fear of her overbearing mother. I wish it had been a bit longer, loved the humor.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the Spindle Cove series, Thanks for the rec Jennifer!!
This was a Kindle Freebie (on 8.15.16)- not sure for how long so do yourself a favor grab it if it's still available!!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
This was a fun little novella, I loved Diana and Aaron. They were very sweet together, and Aaron is a swoon worthy hero, he was such a nice guy, very sweet and understanding....at times a bit too understanding of Diana's fear of her overbearing mother. I wish it had been a bit longer, loved the humor.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the Spindle Cove series, Thanks for the rec Jennifer!!
This was a Kindle Freebie (on 8.15.16)- not sure for how long so do yourself a favor grab it if it's still available!!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
October 20, 2015
With her stunning beauty and her position as a well-bred gentlewoman, Diana Highwood could have her pick of men, but there’s only one man who makes her heart race, Aaron Dawes, the town blacksmith. Her mother has had high hopes that Diana could care less about social classes. After suffering from severe asthma for years, and wondering if she’d even grow old, she just wants to live life to the fullest, and the way she chooses. Aaron is so much more than a blacksmith to her and the village of Spindle Cove. He’s the quasi doctor, the man they turn to when someone has a broken bone that needs setting or a tooth to pull. Aaron’s built up a business making beautiful, one of a kind jewelry, an artist in his own right. It doesn’t hurt that this man screams “superheated virility”, and Diana can hardly take her eyes off him when he’s around. She admires everything about him.
Aaron has never laid eyes on a more beautiful woman than Diana Highwood, but it’s clear the family has high hopes of her marrying well. And so she should, in Aaron’s opinion. Not only is she breathtakingly beautiful, she’s selfless, and courageous. In spite of that, he longs for Diana. No other woman compares, and he can’t get her off his mind since she's came to Spindle Cove. Only now, he has a little hope, because Aaron catches a bit of attraction on her side towards him. It’s awful funny how all her clasps seem to break repeatedly, needing his attention and repair. Hmm….
“Won’t you kiss me?” she whispered, sidling up close. “Just the once?”
“The thing is, Miss Highwood, I’m not interested in kissing you just the once.”
“Oh.” Her face fell.
He propped one finger under her chin, tilting her face back up. “If I were to kiss you, once wouldn’t be enough. I’d want to kiss you many times. In lots of places.”
Her eyes flew wide. “Oh. I…I see.”
Can two people from two different social classes come together for a happily ever after? Well, this is Tessa Dare, so what do you think?
I loved this novella so much! Oh my, it was decadent and hot! Of course Ms. Dare’s writing had humor interlaced, clever funny bits, but most of all she strikes right to the center of your heart. I felt every concern, emotion, and passion Diana and Aaron did!
Aaron has never laid eyes on a more beautiful woman than Diana Highwood, but it’s clear the family has high hopes of her marrying well. And so she should, in Aaron’s opinion. Not only is she breathtakingly beautiful, she’s selfless, and courageous. In spite of that, he longs for Diana. No other woman compares, and he can’t get her off his mind since she's came to Spindle Cove. Only now, he has a little hope, because Aaron catches a bit of attraction on her side towards him. It’s awful funny how all her clasps seem to break repeatedly, needing his attention and repair. Hmm….
“Won’t you kiss me?” she whispered, sidling up close. “Just the once?”
“The thing is, Miss Highwood, I’m not interested in kissing you just the once.”
“Oh.” Her face fell.
He propped one finger under her chin, tilting her face back up. “If I were to kiss you, once wouldn’t be enough. I’d want to kiss you many times. In lots of places.”
Her eyes flew wide. “Oh. I…I see.”
Can two people from two different social classes come together for a happily ever after? Well, this is Tessa Dare, so what do you think?
I loved this novella so much! Oh my, it was decadent and hot! Of course Ms. Dare’s writing had humor interlaced, clever funny bits, but most of all she strikes right to the center of your heart. I felt every concern, emotion, and passion Diana and Aaron did!
October 5, 2013
Enchanting, romantic, sexy and funny! I just love this latest addition to the Spindle Cove series!
What I love about Aaron...
- he's no pampered nobleman but a skilled craftsman who has a real passion for what he does
- he's good with his hands ( read into that what you will!)
- he's a wonderful brother to his sister, Jessica and adores his nephews
- he's willing to fight ( literally) to protect those he loves
- he can be gentle and kind
- his pure superheated virility, sculpted chest, bronzed skin, forearms roped with muscle - hmm, I think you get the picture!
What I love about Diana...
- her beauty is more than skin deep
- she's kind,intelligent and determined
- her loving relationship with her sister Charlotte
- the way she finally emerges to be her own person and has the courage to follow her heart
- she doesn't excel at cooking but is handy with a gun and a needle (and I don't mean embroidery)
- she definitely can't hold her drink!
- she has a natural sensuality
- she never considers Aaron as anything other than her equal
I love the unexpected pairing of the working class Aaron and the highborn Diana and Tessa Dare pulls it off beautifully. I never once felt that they aren't meant to be together and their love story is sweet, tender, poignant and deliciously sexy.
"I would tell you you're the kind of lovely that's unfair to roses and sunsets." *sighs*
Her head naturally tilted back. She was vulnerable beneath him now, and he took control, deepening the kiss. His tongue stroked hers. The grain of his whiskers rasped at the edges of her lips. Intriguing and so essentially male. She wanted to touch him, slide her fingertips down the edge of his jaw.
To enhance this enchanting romance, there are a series of mysterious thefts in the village; a new resident Miss Bertram and her elusive Mr. Evermore; Diana's delightful sister, Charlotte; the overbearing Mrs Highwood; some hilarious goings on at the Queen's Ruby boarding house and a more than satisfying happy ending.
My favourite quote:
”Don’t play innocent, Miss Highwood. You’ve been wanting this. A hard, sweaty pounding from the village smith. These strong, dirty hands all over your body. You’ve been wanting it, haven’t you?”
How I imagine Aaron Dawes…
How I Imagine Diana Highwood
It was a lovely feeling to be back in Spindle Cove again and be captivated by this feel-good, sweet, romantic story. I can't wait for my next visit when Any Duchess Will Do!
VERDICT: FANTASTIC! LOVED IT!
RATING : 5/5 Stars
SENSUALITY RATING: HOT!
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
The Spindle Cove series (click on the cover for details):
What I love about Aaron...
- he's no pampered nobleman but a skilled craftsman who has a real passion for what he does
- he's good with his hands ( read into that what you will!)
- he's a wonderful brother to his sister, Jessica and adores his nephews
- he's willing to fight ( literally) to protect those he loves
- he can be gentle and kind
- his pure superheated virility, sculpted chest, bronzed skin, forearms roped with muscle - hmm, I think you get the picture!
What I love about Diana...
- her beauty is more than skin deep
- she's kind,intelligent and determined
- her loving relationship with her sister Charlotte
- the way she finally emerges to be her own person and has the courage to follow her heart
- she doesn't excel at cooking but is handy with a gun and a needle (and I don't mean embroidery)
- she definitely can't hold her drink!
- she has a natural sensuality
- she never considers Aaron as anything other than her equal
I love the unexpected pairing of the working class Aaron and the highborn Diana and Tessa Dare pulls it off beautifully. I never once felt that they aren't meant to be together and their love story is sweet, tender, poignant and deliciously sexy.
"I would tell you you're the kind of lovely that's unfair to roses and sunsets." *sighs*
Her head naturally tilted back. She was vulnerable beneath him now, and he took control, deepening the kiss. His tongue stroked hers. The grain of his whiskers rasped at the edges of her lips. Intriguing and so essentially male. She wanted to touch him, slide her fingertips down the edge of his jaw.
To enhance this enchanting romance, there are a series of mysterious thefts in the village; a new resident Miss Bertram and her elusive Mr. Evermore; Diana's delightful sister, Charlotte; the overbearing Mrs Highwood; some hilarious goings on at the Queen's Ruby boarding house and a more than satisfying happy ending.
My favourite quote:
”Don’t play innocent, Miss Highwood. You’ve been wanting this. A hard, sweaty pounding from the village smith. These strong, dirty hands all over your body. You’ve been wanting it, haven’t you?”
How I imagine Aaron Dawes…
How I Imagine Diana Highwood
It was a lovely feeling to be back in Spindle Cove again and be captivated by this feel-good, sweet, romantic story. I can't wait for my next visit when Any Duchess Will Do!
VERDICT: FANTASTIC! LOVED IT!
RATING : 5/5 Stars
SENSUALITY RATING: HOT!
This review is also posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
The Spindle Cove series (click on the cover for details):
June 21, 2020
1.) A Night To Surrender ★★★★
*.) Once Upon A Winter's Eve ★★★
2.) A Week To Be Wicked ★★★★
3.) A Lady By Midnight ★★★★
*.) Beauty and the Blacksmith ★★★★
4.) Any Duchess Will Do ★★★★
*.) Lord Dashwood Missed Out ★★★.5
5.) Do You Want to Start A Scandal? ★★★★.5
--------------------------------------------------
“Loading and shooting a pistol might give a lady a rush of exhilaration, but this was true power. The freedom to choose her own direction, and harnessing the power to take her there.”
representation: chronic illness (severe asthma)
[trigger warnings are listed at the bottom of this review and may contain spoilers]
★★★★
This was so fun. I mean, what else did I expect from a tessa dare book lol.
trigger warnings: death of a loved ones (in the past), highway robbery, guns, injuries.
*.) Once Upon A Winter's Eve ★★★
2.) A Week To Be Wicked ★★★★
3.) A Lady By Midnight ★★★★
*.) Beauty and the Blacksmith ★★★★
4.) Any Duchess Will Do ★★★★
*.) Lord Dashwood Missed Out ★★★.5
5.) Do You Want to Start A Scandal? ★★★★.5
--------------------------------------------------
“Loading and shooting a pistol might give a lady a rush of exhilaration, but this was true power. The freedom to choose her own direction, and harnessing the power to take her there.”
representation: chronic illness (severe asthma)
[trigger warnings are listed at the bottom of this review and may contain spoilers]
★★★★
This was so fun. I mean, what else did I expect from a tessa dare book lol.
trigger warnings: death of a loved ones (in the past), highway robbery, guns, injuries.
July 30, 2023
Diana, the hottest of the Highwoods (according to her mom, which is a super rude stance for a parent to take), is supposed to marry a duke or an earl or at least a baron, for God’s sake. Unfortunately she’s in love with the village blacksmith because he’s good at chopping the legs off of children. She also has a kink about big, brawny, thick-wristed men putting their filthy sooty hands on her, which works great for Aaron because blacksmith. Mrs. Highwood won’t be pleased but honestly who gives a shit, she’s being annoying as hell. You fail at cooking all you want, Diana, Aaron loves you and your faulty lungs.
September 10, 2013
Stamped with the author’s clever humor and witty banter is the tale of lady Diana Highwood and her fall for Spindle Cove’s scrumptious blacksmith, Aaron Dawes. It’s fun, engaging and offers a sweet morsel for all those who enjoy this series.
September 17, 2023
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Of course, this is Dare!
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: Immediate
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: No
Format: audiobook checked out on Hoopla
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
It would be delightful if you did so – there’s character and event mentions and overlap – but it’s been years since I’ve read the earlier ones from this series and I found it easy to pick up without a refresher.
Basic plot:
Diana has loved the village blacksmith from afar and wants to bring it to the next level
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency romance
- country village setting (Spindle Cove)
- blacksmith hero
- class difference – working class hero and gentlewoman heroine
- asthma rep (heroine)
- unrequited love (a bit from both!)
- novella length
- mid to higher steam – 3 steam within a novella
Ages:
- Heroine is 23/24, hero is 27
My thoughts:
Oh, I just adored this one! I haven’t read Tessa Dare in awhile and I certainly need to fix that because I find her books the perfect mix of humor, steam, and angst.
I loved the bits of longing from both characters in this one. This novella felt perfectly balanced – to me it didn’t feel rushed. Aaron and Diana are super adorable together – both a bit nervous and vulnerable with each other and when they start opening to their feelings it was so sweet.
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
----------------
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Of course, this is Dare!
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: Immediate
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: No
Format: audiobook checked out on Hoopla
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
It would be delightful if you did so – there’s character and event mentions and overlap – but it’s been years since I’ve read the earlier ones from this series and I found it easy to pick up without a refresher.
Basic plot:
Diana has loved the village blacksmith from afar and wants to bring it to the next level
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency romance
- country village setting (Spindle Cove)
- blacksmith hero
- class difference – working class hero and gentlewoman heroine
- asthma rep (heroine)
- unrequited love (a bit from both!)
- novella length
- mid to higher steam – 3 steam within a novella
Ages:
- Heroine is 23/24, hero is 27
My thoughts:
Oh, I just adored this one! I haven’t read Tessa Dare in awhile and I certainly need to fix that because I find her books the perfect mix of humor, steam, and angst.
I loved the bits of longing from both characters in this one. This novella felt perfectly balanced – to me it didn’t feel rushed. Aaron and Diana are super adorable together – both a bit nervous and vulnerable with each other and when they start opening to their feelings it was so sweet.
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
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Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
June 12, 2023
2023 reread: love this one soooo much!!!
This was just a sweet and cute novella part of the spindle cove series!
This is the romance between Diana and Aaron. Diana's mother has been trying to find an advantageous and wealthy match for her daughter. But Diana can't stop mooning over the town's blacksmith Aaron. The two have been mutually pining over one another for years. This book is about them finally revealing their feelings for one another.
I love this heroine!! I loved her in the previous books and was anticipating her own book.
I love the romance in here, it was so sweet!
These two have been mutually pining after one another for quite some time. And once they reveal their feelings, fireworks explode between the two :)
TROPES: different social classes, historical romance, longing, novella, small-town romance, sweet heroes.
This was just a sweet and cute novella part of the spindle cove series!
This is the romance between Diana and Aaron. Diana's mother has been trying to find an advantageous and wealthy match for her daughter. But Diana can't stop mooning over the town's blacksmith Aaron. The two have been mutually pining over one another for years. This book is about them finally revealing their feelings for one another.
I love this heroine!! I loved her in the previous books and was anticipating her own book.
I love the romance in here, it was so sweet!
These two have been mutually pining after one another for quite some time. And once they reveal their feelings, fireworks explode between the two :)
TROPES: different social classes, historical romance, longing, novella, small-town romance, sweet heroes.
March 12, 2023
Lovely little novella! Why is it that I still have only read novellas from this series?? Especially since it's such a good one (apparently). I don't know, but anyway—I had read some reviews where people thought the story was a little flat, or they didn't really feel the connection between Diana (23) and Aaron (27) and I disagree. I thought it was well-done and believable, and that Dare did a good job of adding little things that made the characters come alive and very three-dimensional, despite the limited space she had.
For example, that Diana has struggled with asthma so badly all her life has deprived her of being able to partake in a lot of things throughout life, and so I loved that now that she's better, she wants to "start living," as her sister terms it, and so applies that to her feelings for Aaron and actually doing something about it, instead of just longing from afar. Also, although yes they are very physically attracted to each other, it didn't feel only lust-based to me (and that's sometimes a difficult test for a romance book to pass for me, just FYI—particularly romance novellas).
I did find that last little twist, , to be kind of silly, especially if she's lived there for two years and they supposedly all know each other so well.
I adored how the book starts off LOLOLOL! Aaron is a blacksmith and we start off her with her at the blacksmith—yet again ... we also see from the beginning what sizzling chemistry we're going to have throughout:
For example, that Diana has struggled with asthma so badly all her life has deprived her of being able to partake in a lot of things throughout life, and so I loved that now that she's better, she wants to "start living," as her sister terms it, and so applies that to her feelings for Aaron and actually doing something about it, instead of just longing from afar. Also, although yes they are very physically attracted to each other, it didn't feel only lust-based to me (and that's sometimes a difficult test for a romance book to pass for me, just FYI—particularly romance novellas).
I did find that last little twist, , to be kind of silly, especially if she's lived there for two years and they supposedly all know each other so well.
I adored how the book starts off LOLOLOL! Aaron is a blacksmith and we start off her with her at the blacksmith—yet again ... we also see from the beginning what sizzling chemistry we're going to have throughout:
"Still don't know how you managed to smash it like that," he said.
By slamming it in a drawer. And finishing the deed with a rock.
"I don't know, either," she prevaricated. Her heart thumped wildly in her chest.
"I could almost believe someone did it on purpose. I know accidents happen. But they don't usually happen the same way twice."
As he fastened the necklace, his fingertips brushed her neck.
Diana sucked in her breath. She wanted to pretend the touch was an accident. As he'd said, accidents happen.
But they didn't happen the same way twice.
He caressed her neck a second time, his roughened thumb sliding down the soft skin at her nape.
"Why are you here?" he asked.
She couldn't answer. She couldn't move, couldn't think.
"I wonder about it. Why you come so often. Why every metal latch and clasp and rivet you possess seems to need mending of late." His voice grew deeper, almost dreamy. "I've told myself you're just bored with this village. With this weather, there's little else to do."
He circled her, running his finger beneath that chain. Branding her with a necklace of his touch.
"Other times"—she caught a wry note in his voice—"I decide you've been sent by the devil to torment me for my sins."
He came to stand before her, holding that vial that dangled from her necklace. He pulled gently, and she swayed toward him. Just an inch.
"And then sometimes I think maybe ... just maybe ... you're hoping for something to happen. Something like this."
August 26, 2019
3,5 'cute and sweet' stars
That was the only book/ novella in Spindle Cove series that I haven't read yet and even if I was not particularly interested in Aaron and Diana, I just couldn't leave it unread.
Being a novella size it's quite a quick read and even with a fast pace, I didn't feel like I'm missing something since I was already familiar with setting and characters. And it was so lovely to visit again these beloved characters. Especially Charlotte is really adorable.
I don't remember if the romance between Aaron and Diana was hinted in the previous books already but like I said I wasn't terribly invested in them before. However, they turned out to be likable characters and their relationship was very sweet and cute.
And even if the plot was a little silly, I still enjoyed it very much. It's Tessa Dare's writing after all. I just adore everything she writes.
“You can’t know,” he finally whispered into her hair. “You can’t know how long I’ve wanted this.”
She turned her head, seeking his kiss. “I think I have some idea.”
That was the only book/ novella in Spindle Cove series that I haven't read yet and even if I was not particularly interested in Aaron and Diana, I just couldn't leave it unread.
Being a novella size it's quite a quick read and even with a fast pace, I didn't feel like I'm missing something since I was already familiar with setting and characters. And it was so lovely to visit again these beloved characters. Especially Charlotte is really adorable.
I don't remember if the romance between Aaron and Diana was hinted in the previous books already but like I said I wasn't terribly invested in them before. However, they turned out to be likable characters and their relationship was very sweet and cute.
“Won’t you kiss me?” she whispered, sidling close.“Just the once?”
“The thing is, Miss Highwood, I’m not interested in kissing you just the once.”
“Oh.” Her face fell. He propped one finger under her chin, tilting her face back up.
“If I were to kiss you, once wouldn’t be enough. I'd want to kiss you many times. In lots of places.”
And even if the plot was a little silly, I still enjoyed it very much. It's Tessa Dare's writing after all. I just adore everything she writes.
“My father used to say, Christ might be a carpenter, but the Heavenly Father is a blacksmith. He melts the sun down every night and forges it again the next morning.”
December 27, 2023
Well that was a fast cute sexy little read. This was just the right amount of story for a short novella. Who wouldn’t want a rough handed blacksmith get dirty with you on an anvil? Despite the good sexy times it was also a very sweet read. I had this hidden in my kindle library from who knows when, cool surprise for me from my past self.
June 28, 2023
Good but not Tessa Dare's bestest...
This novella followed the typical traits of its kind. Tessa Dare is an amazing author so the story was generally good, however she seemed to fall in the common issues that many novellas have. For instance, the characters lacked personality and individualism, especially the protagonists since they not only fell in love very quickly but they both seem to be doormat like personalities and only be "a beauty and a blacksmith". Thus the relationship and the overall plot could be expanded. But I really enjoyed it. It was funny, witty and a cute little read, but I know it is not the authors finest works.
Tags:
Virgin FMC 🌮💦👅
Historical Romance⚔️🏰🐲
Different social classes ✨👑💫
Spicy 🤤😳 🥵
Learning intimacy💁👌😍
Miscommunication😵💫⚠️
Angst😐😑😬
HEA🔔👰🏼🌠
This novella followed the typical traits of its kind. Tessa Dare is an amazing author so the story was generally good, however she seemed to fall in the common issues that many novellas have. For instance, the characters lacked personality and individualism, especially the protagonists since they not only fell in love very quickly but they both seem to be doormat like personalities and only be "a beauty and a blacksmith". Thus the relationship and the overall plot could be expanded. But I really enjoyed it. It was funny, witty and a cute little read, but I know it is not the authors finest works.
Tags:
Virgin FMC 🌮💦👅
Historical Romance⚔️🏰🐲
Different social classes ✨👑💫
Spicy 🤤😳 🥵
Learning intimacy💁👌😍
Miscommunication😵💫⚠️
Angst😐😑😬
HEA🔔👰🏼🌠
November 25, 2022
After reading A Week to Be Wicked I really wanted to know what happened to Minerva's sister Diana, so I'm pleased we at least get this little novella to tie up her story. And I actually really enjoyed this one. Diana has fallen in love with the local blacksmith Aaron, which leads to lots of steamy scenes in the smithy across anvils and involving sooty hands. Although the romance itself is very quick, and I would have loved more of a bulld up of the sexual tension we get right at the beginning, overall this was pretty decent and the two protagonists had a lot of chemistry.
December 26, 2024
2.5 stars
Like a stone skipped across a pond: hit the target in a few places but spent most of the time barely disturbing the air until it settled without much force at the end. I wanted to care, I really did, but I needed the author to care first.
Like a stone skipped across a pond: hit the target in a few places but spent most of the time barely disturbing the air until it settled without much force at the end. I wanted to care, I really did, but I needed the author to care first.
December 9, 2015
You know, I was all set to give this the usual 3-star review, like I do with most of Tessa Dare's slight, anachronistic, but still enjoyable books, and then the heroine stood up in front of a large crowd of people and defiantly said the following of the blacksmith hero:
"And last night...? We. Were. Making. Love. In a bed. All night long. It was hot and sweaty and glorious. I left scratches on his back. He has a freckle just to the right of his navel."
At that point I rolled my eyes so hard I nearly gave myself a headache, because what the hell? Dare does realize she's set her books in the Regency time period (1811-1820), doesn't she? What well-bred woman in her right mind would have said such a thing a.) in that way, which is way too modern sounding and b.) at all, because she would basically be destroying her life. To be honest, I don't even know any 21st century women who would go around making pronouncements like that, but that's just me.
It was too much for me. I can and have suspended my disbelief many times while reading Tessa Dare's books, because they're fun reads. This was a step too far for me, though. The manners and morals of early 1800s England had no bearing on this story. It's as if Spindle Cove is Austenland, where people dress up in period clothes but still have 21st century mindsets.
Quick, someone hand me some smelling salts and a Laura Kinsale book, so I can recover from my outraged tizzy. ;)
"And last night...? We. Were. Making. Love. In a bed. All night long. It was hot and sweaty and glorious. I left scratches on his back. He has a freckle just to the right of his navel."
At that point I rolled my eyes so hard I nearly gave myself a headache, because what the hell? Dare does realize she's set her books in the Regency time period (1811-1820), doesn't she? What well-bred woman in her right mind would have said such a thing a.) in that way, which is way too modern sounding and b.) at all, because she would basically be destroying her life. To be honest, I don't even know any 21st century women who would go around making pronouncements like that, but that's just me.
It was too much for me. I can and have suspended my disbelief many times while reading Tessa Dare's books, because they're fun reads. This was a step too far for me, though. The manners and morals of early 1800s England had no bearing on this story. It's as if Spindle Cove is Austenland, where people dress up in period clothes but still have 21st century mindsets.
Quick, someone hand me some smelling salts and a Laura Kinsale book, so I can recover from my outraged tizzy. ;)
June 2, 2021
I loved this one so much. I actually liked that this one was short, as it kept the conflict from being dragged out and drowning what is an excellent short story.
I loved Diana and Aaron. They were so cute. And sexy times in a blacksmith shop is just what I needed.
4.5/5 stars
I loved Diana and Aaron. They were so cute. And sexy times in a blacksmith shop is just what I needed.
4.5/5 stars
November 4, 2019
Aaron and Diana have been smoldering for several books now. He's the village blacksmith and she is a well-born beauty whose mother has very high expectations for her. But, Diana has other ideas and a mind of her own and she wants the village blacksmith. Not that I blame her. Hot (literally), handsome and built, Aaron is a woman's fantasy come to live, that he's kind is just a bonus. He's perfect, except, he works for his living. That small detail isn't a problem for Diana, but it is for others.
May 4, 2013
“I need to know,” he said. “I need to know, right now, if you’re mine. I’ve been patient for years,and if need be, I can wait years more. I’ll do anything in my power to win you, to keep you. But I need
to know, this moment, if you’ll be mine in the end.” His hands moved to bracket her face, uncomfortably tight. His gaze burned into hers. “Tell me.”
With every wild beat, her heart thumped against his pendant. If she was looking for answers, she didn’t need to search any further than that.
“Yes,” she breathed. “Y—”
Before she could say it twice, his lips were on hers.
swoon!!!:)
I loved it.
I've been wishing for Diana's story last year and glad it came true, never thought it's gonna be a novella but its still worth it.
*teaser* one thing I loved about the series is the book cover! they are always part of the story *grins* yes, you better read and find that scene!:D
This was a lovely story, and who would have thought a blacksmith will be the main hero, haven't read one before and Aaron was a swoon worthy smithy *sigh*. He's gentle, patient and thoughtful and even though he looks ragged on his work, he tries to dress himself properly even though Diana did not need any impression already 'cos she likes him for two years now.
They both harbored the same feelings towards each other but it was just now they confessed their affection to one another...
The side story was interesting, Charlotte was so comical, I would love to read a story of her soon and of course I won't forget Mr. Evermoore:D mwahaha, Mrs. highwood still gave me a headache with her matchmaking to her daughter but glad Diana stand to what she feels towards Aaron, that scene was chaos but still hilarious. And oh Colin made a cameo *swoon*.
I loved the romance,it was warm, delightful read and Diana and Aaron are perfect for each other, they are both opposite in society which made a major problem to both of them, I loved that both characters are trying their best to be part of each others lives, like Diana was going to cook for a meal for Aaron, that part made me laugh *snigger* and loved that Aaron made a especially for Diana, that just made me sighing happily:) I can't stop smiling and giggling throughout the story my jaw hurts hah:D
*one more thing on the next book, Any Duchess Will Do excerpt
my goodness the first scene was so funny, Dang I shouldn't read it but I was so eager to know more about Griffy lol:D
looking forward to reading more about my favorite series:D love me some Happily ever after story:)
April 1, 2013
Miss Diana Highwood, the perfect beauty of her family, is destined to be a noblemans wife, at least according to her mother and Diana has accepted this until they arrive in Spindle Cove to address her health and she meets the local blacksmith, Aaron Dawes. Now with two years of glances and delicious thoughts, she is pushed by her sister to live her life her way and Diana decides to finally act on her thoughts and desires, much to the delight of Aaron. Never in his dreams would he expect a lady to give up a genteel life for the life of being a blacksmith's wife but Diana seems determined too even though she refuses to tell anyone about their relationship. Matters come to light that force this couple to explain themselves (seriously, I about died laughing at that scene...oh, her poor mother!) and you just hang on for the happily ever after that is sure to come!
Oh my goodness, what a clever, hilarious tender and sexy romance! I devoured it and was so disappointed when it was over! Tessa Dare has become an auto buy author for me with her Spindle Cove series and this novella is the reason why. I know when I read a Tessa Dare book I will get a smoldering romance with trials and grit mixed with some laugh inducing scenes that will keep you up all night until you finish and Beauty and the Blacksmith is no exception! Diana is quite a beauty but through her actions, Aaron learns that beauty goes all the way through and helps showcase her strength, determination and intelligence. However, he learns that maybe she isn't the right fit for a kitchen :) Aaron is protective (having had to raise two sisters), affectionate, honest and strong... especially in the forearm area and he is a wonderful counterpart to Diana and takes her mishaps in stride and helps give her the courage to follow her heart. Clever wit, charm, smoldering heat and a true love destined to be make this a keeper for both new and old Tessa Dare fans! 4 1/2 stars
eARC provided by Avon Books via edelweiss
Oh my goodness, what a clever, hilarious tender and sexy romance! I devoured it and was so disappointed when it was over! Tessa Dare has become an auto buy author for me with her Spindle Cove series and this novella is the reason why. I know when I read a Tessa Dare book I will get a smoldering romance with trials and grit mixed with some laugh inducing scenes that will keep you up all night until you finish and Beauty and the Blacksmith is no exception! Diana is quite a beauty but through her actions, Aaron learns that beauty goes all the way through and helps showcase her strength, determination and intelligence. However, he learns that maybe she isn't the right fit for a kitchen :) Aaron is protective (having had to raise two sisters), affectionate, honest and strong... especially in the forearm area and he is a wonderful counterpart to Diana and takes her mishaps in stride and helps give her the courage to follow her heart. Clever wit, charm, smoldering heat and a true love destined to be make this a keeper for both new and old Tessa Dare fans! 4 1/2 stars
eARC provided by Avon Books via edelweiss
September 29, 2021
This is a well-written, entertaining, steamy, historical romance novella. It has a heart-warming romance, a little mystery, a surprise guest, and a happily ever after ending. It is written with Ms. Dare's trademark wit and humor, and is part of the Spindle Cove series. This novella can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, but it is even more entertaining when read in order. I am looking forward to reading the next entry in this outstanding series with great anticipation.
February 11, 2015
This series is entertaining even with all the unbelievable things that happen. Beauty and the Blacksmith is the least believable so far. They breezed through pretty much everything.
I think this one would have been better with less sweetness and more pages. Oh, and without that ridiculous resolution of the missing items problem.
Too sweet.
Minerva's story is still the best.
I think this one would have been better with less sweetness and more pages. Oh, and without that ridiculous resolution of the missing items problem.
Too sweet.
Minerva's story is still the best.
July 31, 2021
Probably closer to a 3.5 rounded to 4. This was sweet and fun and a really quick read. But novellas usually won't go over a 4 because they always feel a bit lacking in the love department. Just happened to fast. But a very charming read.
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