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Once Upon A Regency: Fairy Tales And Fables
Once upon a time nine historical romance authors created a fairy tale inspired Regency world…
Resisting Romeo by Samantha Grace
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel
Wish Upon a Kiss by Meara Platt
A Duke Worth His Salt by Allison Merritt
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher
Searching for My Rogue by Dawn Brower
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andresen
Join us on a Regency adventure of love and romance in the limited edition box set Once Upon A Regency: Timeless Tales And Fables!
Resisting Romeo by Samantha Grace
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel
Wish Upon a Kiss by Meara Platt
A Duke Worth His Salt by Allison Merritt
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher
Searching for My Rogue by Dawn Brower
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andresen
Join us on a Regency adventure of love and romance in the limited edition box set Once Upon A Regency: Timeless Tales And Fables!
1077 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2016
48 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Allison Merritt
43 books167 followersA love of reading inspired Allison Merritt to pursue her dream of becoming an author who writes historical, paranormal, contemporary, and fantasy romances, often combining the sub-genres. She lives in a small town in the Ozark Mountains with her husband and dogs. It's not unusual to find her lurking in graveyards, wandering historical sites, or listening to ghost stories.
Allison graduated from College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri with a B.A. in mass communications that's gathering dust after it was determined that she's better at writing fluff than hard news.
Allison graduated from College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri with a B.A. in mass communications that's gathering dust after it was determined that she's better at writing fluff than hard news.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 30, 2016
"Fairies often live among the bluebells, so if you ever see a bed of those flowers, you'll know those fable creatures are about."
“I must confess when I first met you, I tried to look behind you to see if you had wings."
This box set contains so many different things. From killer attack dogs to chasing your white rabbit through time there was never a dull moment. Meet your Prince Charming or enter a boxing match full of women in a time where women are prim and proper. So many different adventures in one place you'll be swept away. You'll have a front row seat and back stage pass to a play with so much happening behind the curtains you'll be wondering who done it, or was that real or part of the show. Not only are the stories placed in regency time the fairytale twist gives it a fun edge you'll love. The collection of authors each have their own unique writing style that keep the stories refreshing. I loved each story and give this box set 5 stars for bringing back the stories I loved as a child and mixing it up for a new take. You'll want to strap on your own red hood, but make sure you don't get taken in by the wolf, as you enjoy this great mix of stories.
“I must confess when I first met you, I tried to look behind you to see if you had wings."
This box set contains so many different things. From killer attack dogs to chasing your white rabbit through time there was never a dull moment. Meet your Prince Charming or enter a boxing match full of women in a time where women are prim and proper. So many different adventures in one place you'll be swept away. You'll have a front row seat and back stage pass to a play with so much happening behind the curtains you'll be wondering who done it, or was that real or part of the show. Not only are the stories placed in regency time the fairytale twist gives it a fun edge you'll love. The collection of authors each have their own unique writing style that keep the stories refreshing. I loved each story and give this box set 5 stars for bringing back the stories I loved as a child and mixing it up for a new take. You'll want to strap on your own red hood, but make sure you don't get taken in by the wolf, as you enjoy this great mix of stories.
January 18, 2016
I got to read Samantha's bookie from the box set and I really enjoyed it Russell was a sweetheart, “I asked because you are my partner.” He grabbed her, flipping her beneath him and raining kisses on her face. “You agreed to marry me, remember? Below stairs? Just before you lost your clothes and laid on the carpet? Remember?” I enjoyed Russell and Claudine, although I haven't read the other novellas in the anthology I know they will be just as good as Samantha's.
January 31, 2016
I received an arc for my honest review. Let me start by saying that the price for this boxed set is an incredable price for 9 individual stories. All 9 stories did not work for me but so many of them did. So many wonderful H/h surrounded by romance. I wish I could tell you a little of each story but that would probably be my only complaint. I love to do reviews and give a little back story in them but because it is a pretty lengthly boxed set (over 700 pages) to recall all the magical moments is really hard. I wish the books were set up in a way that you could review them as you went so I could elaborate a little about each one of them. The mistress books and women giving their favors with no thought to what cost always bothers me for the period. There was really only a couple separate stories that followed those guidelines and I found myself skimming through it bc it's not my thing. The authors I did enjoy were Samantha Grace, Amanda Mariel, Meara Platt, Allison Merritt, Ari Thatcher, Dawn Brower, and Tammy Andresen. That is no disrespect to the authors I failed to mention because I have several favorite authors that had books I did not enjoy so it is just that the stories here did not work for me. But as you can see there are still many that did and so I would encourage those who like to find new authors that this is a great way to find some. Many of these authors are new for me but have definitely peaked some interest to read more by them. These are not all clean reads, in fact, most have behind closed doors scenes. I am so glad I had the pleasure of reading so many romantic stories and will probably revisit them at a later time. Enjoy!
February 9, 2016
This was a great collection of stories from nine talented authors. Each story was a loose variation on well-known and not so well-known fairy tales and had wonderful characters. While a couple of the stories I wasn’t crazy about at the outset, they grew on me and I ended up liking every story in the collection, albeit some more than others. While the title of the anthology it Once Upon a Regency, these are not your typical ballroom and house party stories. They instead are a collection of adventures that will leave you wanting to know what happens to some of the supporting characters, many of whom deserve their own stories.
February 5, 2016
Once Upon A Regency : Rabbit Holes and Dukes …Oh My!
By Karen Simpson
I picked up my reading tablet to read this anthology of fairy tales. These beautifully written Regency fairy tales immediately enchanted me. Nine romance authors banded together and refashioned themes from popular fairy tales into these beautiful stories. These fantastical stories transported me from my cozy armchair back to the early 1800s. They provided everything you could hope for in a fairy tale. There are Godmothers, Princes, Dukes, Princesses, ships, storms, lords, ladies, and other members of Royalty. There’s even magic. And, yes, of course, there are the villains.
As a means of an introduction, here is a cursory overview from these wonderful stories. Samantha Grace’s story, “Resisting Romeo” was inspired by the “Emperor’s New Clothes.” French Actress Claudine Bellerose, perhaps a familiar character to those who have read some of Samantha Grace’s books, is challenged by circumstances beyond her control to see life differently. “Little Red Riding Hood” influences Amanda Mariel’s lovely story of a poor seamstress who is saved from a villain named Wolf by Hunter Thorne, the Earl of Aubrey. Meara Platt used the theme from the fabled “Sleeping Beauty” in her enchanting story of Lady Winnie and the Duke of Blantyre. There are actually Godmothers!
Allison Merritt’s story, “A Duke Worth His Salt,” is based on “The Dirty Shepherdess.” I found the story very well written, with great characters. Another novella starts with a storm at sea. It reduces a large important ship to a mere wreck, and washes it up on shore in “Masquerading as a Miss,” by Ari Thatcher. Based on the fairy tale, “The Little Mermaid,” two lives become intertwined by fate and their tale cannot be undone. Ari Thatcher’s powerful love story was captivating.
Sue London and Lynne Barron also use wonderful fairy tales with their captivating stories. Sue’s story, “The Enchanted Cave,” mimics an old Irish fairy tale. Lynne Barron’s tale, “Taming Beauty,” was very loosely based on “Beauty and the Beast.” There was no beast; instead, beauty was the defining connection. Both ladies provided such rich Regency stories.
Dawn Brower’s story and Tammy Andreson’s stories were so unique to me. Brower used time travel. She brought a beautiful young physician from her sister’s twenty-first century wedding down the rabbit hole to Regency England. Alys finds herself stuck in a time when women are not allowed to operate. She finds herself face-to-face with a man she mistakes for the best man in her sister’s wedding two hundred years later. Once read, it becomes obvious that Brower’s novella, “Searching for My Rogue” was influenced by “Alice In Wonderland.”
Tammy Andresen set her story "Stealing A Lady’s Heart” in Scotland. She based it on the fairy tale, “The Four Clever Brothers.” I didn’t know that fairy tale, but I was enchanted, nonetheless. The story was filled with romance and magic. It created such a hum in my head that I thought about this story for days afterward. I had never heard of that fairy tale, but it is a fairy tale I plan to read.
My small story snippets can only be an introduction. They hardly do these stories justice. They are beautifully written…and tasteful. I found the character development in all of them done very well. There are no ‘sleepers’ in the package. Some of the stories could even serve as launching points for a series. I found them engaging and robust. They are certainly worth the price of ninety-nine pennies – and much more! I can promise you, it’s been a long time since I've read anything that resembled “Red Riding Hood” and came away looking for more! However, “Enchanted by the Earl” is one story I won’t soon forget! I loved it. My suggestion is you grab these stories while you can.
This is a five star anthology.
By Karen Simpson
I picked up my reading tablet to read this anthology of fairy tales. These beautifully written Regency fairy tales immediately enchanted me. Nine romance authors banded together and refashioned themes from popular fairy tales into these beautiful stories. These fantastical stories transported me from my cozy armchair back to the early 1800s. They provided everything you could hope for in a fairy tale. There are Godmothers, Princes, Dukes, Princesses, ships, storms, lords, ladies, and other members of Royalty. There’s even magic. And, yes, of course, there are the villains.
As a means of an introduction, here is a cursory overview from these wonderful stories. Samantha Grace’s story, “Resisting Romeo” was inspired by the “Emperor’s New Clothes.” French Actress Claudine Bellerose, perhaps a familiar character to those who have read some of Samantha Grace’s books, is challenged by circumstances beyond her control to see life differently. “Little Red Riding Hood” influences Amanda Mariel’s lovely story of a poor seamstress who is saved from a villain named Wolf by Hunter Thorne, the Earl of Aubrey. Meara Platt used the theme from the fabled “Sleeping Beauty” in her enchanting story of Lady Winnie and the Duke of Blantyre. There are actually Godmothers!
Allison Merritt’s story, “A Duke Worth His Salt,” is based on “The Dirty Shepherdess.” I found the story very well written, with great characters. Another novella starts with a storm at sea. It reduces a large important ship to a mere wreck, and washes it up on shore in “Masquerading as a Miss,” by Ari Thatcher. Based on the fairy tale, “The Little Mermaid,” two lives become intertwined by fate and their tale cannot be undone. Ari Thatcher’s powerful love story was captivating.
Sue London and Lynne Barron also use wonderful fairy tales with their captivating stories. Sue’s story, “The Enchanted Cave,” mimics an old Irish fairy tale. Lynne Barron’s tale, “Taming Beauty,” was very loosely based on “Beauty and the Beast.” There was no beast; instead, beauty was the defining connection. Both ladies provided such rich Regency stories.
Dawn Brower’s story and Tammy Andreson’s stories were so unique to me. Brower used time travel. She brought a beautiful young physician from her sister’s twenty-first century wedding down the rabbit hole to Regency England. Alys finds herself stuck in a time when women are not allowed to operate. She finds herself face-to-face with a man she mistakes for the best man in her sister’s wedding two hundred years later. Once read, it becomes obvious that Brower’s novella, “Searching for My Rogue” was influenced by “Alice In Wonderland.”
Tammy Andresen set her story "Stealing A Lady’s Heart” in Scotland. She based it on the fairy tale, “The Four Clever Brothers.” I didn’t know that fairy tale, but I was enchanted, nonetheless. The story was filled with romance and magic. It created such a hum in my head that I thought about this story for days afterward. I had never heard of that fairy tale, but it is a fairy tale I plan to read.
My small story snippets can only be an introduction. They hardly do these stories justice. They are beautifully written…and tasteful. I found the character development in all of them done very well. There are no ‘sleepers’ in the package. Some of the stories could even serve as launching points for a series. I found them engaging and robust. They are certainly worth the price of ninety-nine pennies – and much more! I can promise you, it’s been a long time since I've read anything that resembled “Red Riding Hood” and came away looking for more! However, “Enchanted by the Earl” is one story I won’t soon forget! I loved it. My suggestion is you grab these stories while you can.
This is a five star anthology.
August 28, 2016
Once again Samantha Grace gives us characters that we can't help but fall in love with. I was so excited to see Claudine get her own story. Strong and independent, she doesn't need or want love, but she just can't turn away from Hawke. I loved that this story was fun and happy, not wasting time with games of "will they, won't they". As a fan of Samantha Grace's, I couldn't help but recognize a few "friends" in this book as well. This is a regency romance that fills everyone's idea of a fairy tale!
February 23, 2016
Reviewed by Robin
Book provided by the authors for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Anthologies are always a treat to read. Whether you have a favorite author or just want something different you usually can find it within the pages of an anthology.
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel held magic for Rose and Hunter. We find Rose living with her grandmother in a small cottage in the woods, trying to just live their simple lives. I liked this story as it seemed to be loosely based on Red Riding Hood. There was even a big bad wolf appropriately named Mr. Wolfe. He forged documents that said that a mortgage was still owed on the cottage and for payment he would or wanted to marry Rose. Rose knew that her father had paid the debt she searches for the proof but things keep happening to hinder her getting the proof. In comes Hunter who is enchanted with her from the start.
Ms. Mariel gave us some very charming characters that had spunk and courage. Rose was willing to give up the cottage she loved to stay with her grandmother but, this strong woman wasn’t going to give up without fighting. She would even do it by herself if needed. Hunter played the hero to a ‘T. I liked how Rose stood up and wasn’t going to let a man tell her what to do…the wolf or Hunter. I liked this but I think I would have liked a bit more story.
Resisting Romeo by Samantha Grace was set in the theatre, which was an interesting change. Claudine and Russell meet in the theatre that Russell has inherited from his father. He has theatre in his blood and ends up filling in when an actor gets hurt. Claudine gives him lessons to help him learn his lines.
Ms. Grace added twists and turns to this story that kept me interested. I didn’t expect it to end as it did I was surprised. I liked all the characters they were well thought out with each having a very strong personality even if they weren’t the main character. I enjoyed being there on stage acting along with the characters visualizing each scene. I liked this story.
Wish upon a Kiss by Meara Platt –I liked the dotty godmothers yes all three of them. What I wouldn’t have given just for one when I was growing up. Winnie has been hidden and kept sheltered. But she would soon find out the truth. I kept waiting for Maleficent to show up. And she did well not really Maleficent but very close.
Through all the running and hiding I found that I like Ms. Platt’s take on Sleeping Beauty. She may not have actually fallen into a deep sleep but she was sheltered from truth only to find in the end that she was a princess of sorts and not a commoner after all. And…who wouldn’t want a handsome Duke falling for her. I liked the story and the godmothers more than the Duke and Winnie.
Duke Worth his Salt by Allison Merritt was a rather different twist on Cinderella. Eleanor was raised by her Uncle. She was under the impression that he was her father. Her biological mother was actually her aunt in this story. Her father/uncle has an accident which leaves him with a bit of a head injury. This leaves him being mean towards Eleanor. He wants nothing to do with her. She leaves to go to their country home where learns the day to day running of said home and falls in love with Goodwin Duke of Greenebuck who lived next door.
Ms. Merritt’s twists were fun and full of adventure for Eleanor and Goodwin. She showed that there is a hero in almost everyone despite how they were brought up and everyone has their price. I was so glad that they got their HEA. The end was not was expected but everything ended just the way I wanted it to.
I think that I shall start using: ‘I love you as much as the salt on my food’, because I don’t want life or love to be bland.
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher –A storm at sea. A wreck and…being washed ashore. Where is Captain Jack Sparrow? Well Ms. Thatcher gave us Cassie and Lord Spalding instead. Cassie grew up in Jamaica with her mother and knows very little of her family. She was told her father had died long ago. Know headed in search of her Aunt in London she ends up in the care of Spalding (makes me think of Tom Hanks in ‘Castaway’). I enjoyed this journey that Cassie with the help of Spalding (and his family) went on. Ms. Thatcher showed that there really is good in the hearts of people. Some are willing to help even if they don’t know everything about you. I enjoyed the friendship between Cassie and Spalding.
Searching for my Rogue by Dawn Brower -I couldn’t help but wonder about this story a little; I liked it well enough but found it a little bit of a struggle to get a grasp on the characters. It was okay but not one of my favorites and I love Alice in Wonderland etc. Just left me wanting more.
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London was taken from an Irish Fairy Tale. I was excited as I have read a lot of different Irish Fairy Tales. I enjoyed the strong Irish women in this story that show that you can make it in a man’s world. They were boxers generally fighting against other women however; towards the end a least one fought a male fighter.
The name seemed misleading at first but I soon got that. The characters were easy to associate with and I found that I truly liked them and enjoyed each and every one of them. However I found that it seemed to drag on to the extent that I almost wanted it to end. For me there was somethings that just weren’t needed.
Overall I loved Maeve, Galen and well just everyone. I just found my mind wondering a bit from time to time.
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron –How far would you go to help out your family? Imagine having at the beginning of the story five daughters by the end six…you have to marry them off finding suitable husbands for all while hoping to gain some kind of funds in return for giving away your daughters just to survive. Lilith wasn’t picky she just wanted what every girl wants someone to love her for who she is.
This was a twist on taming beauty; instead of the beast. I think that Lilith’s dad had this figured out all along. He knew she was would fall for Jasper. Having set it up for one of the other daughter’s to marry Baron Malleville (Jasper).
Things took an ugly spin for a while. I didn’t like where this was headed but when everything was said and done, it worked. I liked that all the dirty laundry was aired and it just didn’t matter. Love is love and it is much better when it ends up being unconditional. Everyone deserves a chance despite their past.
Ms. Barron did a great job writing characters with a heart. I enjoyed all of them and wanted so much for Lilith and Jasper to make it. As much as I enjoyed Lilith and Jasper I simply fell in love with the devilish antics of Meg, Charlie and Henry. They were just the most precocious… Just way too cute.
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andersen –I liked this fairy tale. Set in Scotland for me it held not only a pure romance but the simple magic that goes with it. I was enchanted with this story from the beginning until the end and I didn’t want it to end. I wanted it to go on.
There was an instant connection between Graham and Charlotte. I liked it. It was warm and hinted of passion. Each character had their own role to play and were so entwined that they just worked magic. I would love to see more of little Ewan.
Ms. Andersen shows us that marriage is a union and when you find that perfect mate working together is the only way to go. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Andersen.
I really enjoyed Once upon a Regency. This anthology gave a somewhat different take on your classic fairy tales. As with all anthologies there are some that you will really enjoy and others that aren’t exactly what you thought. But, as always there is a little something for every romantic.
Book provided by the authors for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Anthologies are always a treat to read. Whether you have a favorite author or just want something different you usually can find it within the pages of an anthology.
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel held magic for Rose and Hunter. We find Rose living with her grandmother in a small cottage in the woods, trying to just live their simple lives. I liked this story as it seemed to be loosely based on Red Riding Hood. There was even a big bad wolf appropriately named Mr. Wolfe. He forged documents that said that a mortgage was still owed on the cottage and for payment he would or wanted to marry Rose. Rose knew that her father had paid the debt she searches for the proof but things keep happening to hinder her getting the proof. In comes Hunter who is enchanted with her from the start.
Ms. Mariel gave us some very charming characters that had spunk and courage. Rose was willing to give up the cottage she loved to stay with her grandmother but, this strong woman wasn’t going to give up without fighting. She would even do it by herself if needed. Hunter played the hero to a ‘T. I liked how Rose stood up and wasn’t going to let a man tell her what to do…the wolf or Hunter. I liked this but I think I would have liked a bit more story.
Resisting Romeo by Samantha Grace was set in the theatre, which was an interesting change. Claudine and Russell meet in the theatre that Russell has inherited from his father. He has theatre in his blood and ends up filling in when an actor gets hurt. Claudine gives him lessons to help him learn his lines.
Ms. Grace added twists and turns to this story that kept me interested. I didn’t expect it to end as it did I was surprised. I liked all the characters they were well thought out with each having a very strong personality even if they weren’t the main character. I enjoyed being there on stage acting along with the characters visualizing each scene. I liked this story.
Wish upon a Kiss by Meara Platt –I liked the dotty godmothers yes all three of them. What I wouldn’t have given just for one when I was growing up. Winnie has been hidden and kept sheltered. But she would soon find out the truth. I kept waiting for Maleficent to show up. And she did well not really Maleficent but very close.
Through all the running and hiding I found that I like Ms. Platt’s take on Sleeping Beauty. She may not have actually fallen into a deep sleep but she was sheltered from truth only to find in the end that she was a princess of sorts and not a commoner after all. And…who wouldn’t want a handsome Duke falling for her. I liked the story and the godmothers more than the Duke and Winnie.
Duke Worth his Salt by Allison Merritt was a rather different twist on Cinderella. Eleanor was raised by her Uncle. She was under the impression that he was her father. Her biological mother was actually her aunt in this story. Her father/uncle has an accident which leaves him with a bit of a head injury. This leaves him being mean towards Eleanor. He wants nothing to do with her. She leaves to go to their country home where learns the day to day running of said home and falls in love with Goodwin Duke of Greenebuck who lived next door.
Ms. Merritt’s twists were fun and full of adventure for Eleanor and Goodwin. She showed that there is a hero in almost everyone despite how they were brought up and everyone has their price. I was so glad that they got their HEA. The end was not was expected but everything ended just the way I wanted it to.
I think that I shall start using: ‘I love you as much as the salt on my food’, because I don’t want life or love to be bland.
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher –A storm at sea. A wreck and…being washed ashore. Where is Captain Jack Sparrow? Well Ms. Thatcher gave us Cassie and Lord Spalding instead. Cassie grew up in Jamaica with her mother and knows very little of her family. She was told her father had died long ago. Know headed in search of her Aunt in London she ends up in the care of Spalding (makes me think of Tom Hanks in ‘Castaway’). I enjoyed this journey that Cassie with the help of Spalding (and his family) went on. Ms. Thatcher showed that there really is good in the hearts of people. Some are willing to help even if they don’t know everything about you. I enjoyed the friendship between Cassie and Spalding.
Searching for my Rogue by Dawn Brower -I couldn’t help but wonder about this story a little; I liked it well enough but found it a little bit of a struggle to get a grasp on the characters. It was okay but not one of my favorites and I love Alice in Wonderland etc. Just left me wanting more.
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London was taken from an Irish Fairy Tale. I was excited as I have read a lot of different Irish Fairy Tales. I enjoyed the strong Irish women in this story that show that you can make it in a man’s world. They were boxers generally fighting against other women however; towards the end a least one fought a male fighter.
The name seemed misleading at first but I soon got that. The characters were easy to associate with and I found that I truly liked them and enjoyed each and every one of them. However I found that it seemed to drag on to the extent that I almost wanted it to end. For me there was somethings that just weren’t needed.
Overall I loved Maeve, Galen and well just everyone. I just found my mind wondering a bit from time to time.
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron –How far would you go to help out your family? Imagine having at the beginning of the story five daughters by the end six…you have to marry them off finding suitable husbands for all while hoping to gain some kind of funds in return for giving away your daughters just to survive. Lilith wasn’t picky she just wanted what every girl wants someone to love her for who she is.
This was a twist on taming beauty; instead of the beast. I think that Lilith’s dad had this figured out all along. He knew she was would fall for Jasper. Having set it up for one of the other daughter’s to marry Baron Malleville (Jasper).
Things took an ugly spin for a while. I didn’t like where this was headed but when everything was said and done, it worked. I liked that all the dirty laundry was aired and it just didn’t matter. Love is love and it is much better when it ends up being unconditional. Everyone deserves a chance despite their past.
Ms. Barron did a great job writing characters with a heart. I enjoyed all of them and wanted so much for Lilith and Jasper to make it. As much as I enjoyed Lilith and Jasper I simply fell in love with the devilish antics of Meg, Charlie and Henry. They were just the most precocious… Just way too cute.
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andersen –I liked this fairy tale. Set in Scotland for me it held not only a pure romance but the simple magic that goes with it. I was enchanted with this story from the beginning until the end and I didn’t want it to end. I wanted it to go on.
There was an instant connection between Graham and Charlotte. I liked it. It was warm and hinted of passion. Each character had their own role to play and were so entwined that they just worked magic. I would love to see more of little Ewan.
Ms. Andersen shows us that marriage is a union and when you find that perfect mate working together is the only way to go. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Andersen.
I really enjoyed Once upon a Regency. This anthology gave a somewhat different take on your classic fairy tales. As with all anthologies there are some that you will really enjoy and others that aren’t exactly what you thought. But, as always there is a little something for every romantic.
February 18, 2016
ARC REVIEW
This is a great collection of retold fairy tales and fables for full review...
http://hannahdabink.blogspot.com/2016...
This is a great collection of retold fairy tales and fables for full review...
http://hannahdabink.blogspot.com/2016...
February 26, 2016
Resisting Romeo by Samantha Grace
- I liked Claudine and Russell as h/H and the supporting cast was fun. Cute, sweet, and fast.
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel
- I didn't like this one. I couldn't get into it or care or the h/H. I mostly skimmed it for a final answer. The h was strong and independent one second and as soon as she was told no she basically replied with "yes, I will..oh ok I won't. Sorry, please forgive me"
Wish Upon a Kiss by Meara Platt
- Meh. Better than Enchanted by the Earl, but the mystery wasn't all that mysterious and I didn't get why the H kept his real identity secret for so long.
A Duke Worth His Salt by Allison Merritt
-I mostly just felt bad for Lady Eleanor and didn't much care either way about the hero. I was able to guess the secret quickly and felt that Eleanor made a lot of poor choices trying to protect herself. The epilogue was cute and I liked his fairy tale.
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher
- Shipwrecked and no idea where to find her great aunt...also can't remember anything except her first name. Too many contrived events, mis-communications, and lack of knowledge for my tastes. I was mostly rolling my eyes while the heroine is trying to remember where her aunt lives and her aunts name. Oh and don't forget that she never questioned how her mother was able to afford a nice home and a new start while taking in sewing. *HUGE EYE ROLL*
Searching for My Rogue by Dawn Brower
- The time traveling story of the bunch. It was cute and I didn't hate either the h or H so I call this one a win.
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London
- I hated Maeve...and whatshisname. The characters ruined the entire thing for me.
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron
- I liked Lilith and Grim. The fun secondary characters were a nice touch and I couldn't hate Dunaway as much as I was supposed to, or not since he did turn out to be trying to make everyone happy just in a shitty way.
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andresen
-Charlotte could die and then maybe I would like this.
- I liked Claudine and Russell as h/H and the supporting cast was fun. Cute, sweet, and fast.
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel
- I didn't like this one. I couldn't get into it or care or the h/H. I mostly skimmed it for a final answer. The h was strong and independent one second and as soon as she was told no she basically replied with "yes, I will..oh ok I won't. Sorry, please forgive me"
Wish Upon a Kiss by Meara Platt
- Meh. Better than Enchanted by the Earl, but the mystery wasn't all that mysterious and I didn't get why the H kept his real identity secret for so long.
A Duke Worth His Salt by Allison Merritt
-I mostly just felt bad for Lady Eleanor and didn't much care either way about the hero. I was able to guess the secret quickly and felt that Eleanor made a lot of poor choices trying to protect herself. The epilogue was cute and I liked his fairy tale.
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher
- Shipwrecked and no idea where to find her great aunt...also can't remember anything except her first name. Too many contrived events, mis-communications, and lack of knowledge for my tastes. I was mostly rolling my eyes while the heroine is trying to remember where her aunt lives and her aunts name. Oh and don't forget that she never questioned how her mother was able to afford a nice home and a new start while taking in sewing. *HUGE EYE ROLL*
Searching for My Rogue by Dawn Brower
- The time traveling story of the bunch. It was cute and I didn't hate either the h or H so I call this one a win.
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London
- I hated Maeve...and whatshisname. The characters ruined the entire thing for me.
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron
- I liked Lilith and Grim. The fun secondary characters were a nice touch and I couldn't hate Dunaway as much as I was supposed to, or not since he did turn out to be trying to make everyone happy just in a shitty way.
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andresen
-Charlotte could die and then maybe I would like this.
February 13, 2016
I read the first book, by Samantha Grace, which is part of her new series, "Uncle Charlie's Angels." Really good story about an actress/playwright and the gentleman who recently inherited the theater. There are a couple of characters from the first book to tie it in, but this really is a standalone book. Some mystery, humor and a sweet love story.
February 28, 2016
Good stories based on fairy tales and lore
Good story lines and character development for short stories. Fabulous way to be introduced to authors I have not read before.
Good story lines and character development for short stories. Fabulous way to be introduced to authors I have not read before.
February 25, 2016
Dawn Brower-Searching For My Rogue
It's Alys's sister Regina's wedding day. Inspired by the Regency times, Regina chose to have the wedding at her future husbands step brother, the Duke of Weston, estates. The Duke, Bradford Kendall, was a dreamy man Alys thought until he opened his mouth. He used his words to destroy her whole day and what she thought of rogue type men. She had to get away from him. As she found a way out of the reception she found a cliff and a lonely rabbit at the edge. She was scared of heights but still wanted to save the rabbit. Alys falls but what she falls into isn't what she thought she would wake up to.
1815 really how had this happened? Worse yet she is faced with a man she swears is Bradford but it isn't, it's James. Now she is finding herself falling for him. Will she ever be able to return to her time with her family and friends and new career? Or will she go with her heart and fall for James? Even if staying with James means leaving her family in the future.
I gave this book 4 stars because it left me a bit confused on some things. The storyline is really good and the way the relationship is laid out is done very well. Although I am left with the questions of why would he accept her so easily and why would she just do what he says with no questions. The story line did manage to keep my interest and at times did make me question what will she do. Which kept me wanting more. So for that alone I enjoyed reading it very much.
It's Alys's sister Regina's wedding day. Inspired by the Regency times, Regina chose to have the wedding at her future husbands step brother, the Duke of Weston, estates. The Duke, Bradford Kendall, was a dreamy man Alys thought until he opened his mouth. He used his words to destroy her whole day and what she thought of rogue type men. She had to get away from him. As she found a way out of the reception she found a cliff and a lonely rabbit at the edge. She was scared of heights but still wanted to save the rabbit. Alys falls but what she falls into isn't what she thought she would wake up to.
1815 really how had this happened? Worse yet she is faced with a man she swears is Bradford but it isn't, it's James. Now she is finding herself falling for him. Will she ever be able to return to her time with her family and friends and new career? Or will she go with her heart and fall for James? Even if staying with James means leaving her family in the future.
I gave this book 4 stars because it left me a bit confused on some things. The storyline is really good and the way the relationship is laid out is done very well. Although I am left with the questions of why would he accept her so easily and why would she just do what he says with no questions. The story line did manage to keep my interest and at times did make me question what will she do. Which kept me wanting more. So for that alone I enjoyed reading it very much.
June 21, 2016
April 2016 - Oh dear... the good news is this was an Amazon freeby - or as close as - which is why I bought it for light entertainment.
I only gave it 2 stars because the first story was quite fun, otherwise it would have been 1. By the time I got to the end of 'A Duke Worth His Salt' I gave up.
Within a couple of chapters the heroine is thinking about her duvet, that there are 'very few' wolves around to attack the sheep on her father's estate and that the sheep are pure bred Merinos.
Shall we take these one by one? The word 'duvet' only came into use in England in the late 1970s. The last wolf in England died in the thirteenth century and, although the first few Merino sheep had been imported to England a few years before the book is, supposedly, set they were never successful as they require cold dry temperatures and the wet weather of England didn't suit them.*
I am beginning to think that American women should either give up writing about the English aristocracy of the period or actually research it a little better...
*There is actually a good article, written especially for those thinking of writing Regency Novels, explaining why although expensive clothing of the period was specifically described as Merino wool, it was in part so expensive because it was imported - https://regencyredingote.wordpress.co...
June 2016 ETA - I actually went back and finished these just because I do like to finish things!
I only gave it 2 stars because the first story was quite fun, otherwise it would have been 1. By the time I got to the end of 'A Duke Worth His Salt' I gave up.
Within a couple of chapters the heroine is thinking about her duvet, that there are 'very few' wolves around to attack the sheep on her father's estate and that the sheep are pure bred Merinos.
Shall we take these one by one? The word 'duvet' only came into use in England in the late 1970s. The last wolf in England died in the thirteenth century and, although the first few Merino sheep had been imported to England a few years before the book is, supposedly, set they were never successful as they require cold dry temperatures and the wet weather of England didn't suit them.*
I am beginning to think that American women should either give up writing about the English aristocracy of the period or actually research it a little better...
*There is actually a good article, written especially for those thinking of writing Regency Novels, explaining why although expensive clothing of the period was specifically described as Merino wool, it was in part so expensive because it was imported - https://regencyredingote.wordpress.co...
June 2016 ETA - I actually went back and finished these just because I do like to finish things!
May 6, 2016
3.5/5.0
Readers looking for a unique retelling of classically written fairytales with modernized romantic twists will find a treasure within the pages of this newly released anthology.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Readers looking for a unique retelling of classically written fairytales with modernized romantic twists will find a treasure within the pages of this newly released anthology.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 28, 2016
A fairy tale inspired anthology
I enjoyed this anthology very much. I was pleased that a couple authors gave information on the fairy tale basis for their story. I wish they all had. A fun read overall
I enjoyed this anthology very much. I was pleased that a couple authors gave information on the fairy tale basis for their story. I wish they all had. A fun read overall
March 9, 2016
Short & Sweet
This was a great bundle of stories. Each story held my attention, and kept me entertained. Very noteworthy indeed. Recommended.
This was a great bundle of stories. Each story held my attention, and kept me entertained. Very noteworthy indeed. Recommended.
May 15, 2016
Resisting Romeo By Samantha Grace.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Russell Hawke has inherited a theatre along with his father's estate. Unfortunately as much as he would like to keep it, it has not been profitable, and with a mother and three sisters to provide for he must sell it.
Claudine Bellerose is an actress and now a playwright. Her first production is due to start soon. Then the company is told the theatre will close before they get the chance to put on the play. Claudine has had enough of men controlling her life, and will not stand for it.
This is the second book in a series but is easily read as a stand alone. It is a fun story with a little unexpected danger. Our hero is very unusual in his view of his responsibilities. Our heroine is only just coming to realize how good life can be, after years of struggle and abuse. The secondary characters are some that show up in the previous book, and hopefully the ones still to come. I will definitely be eagerly waiting for the next book.
Enchanted By The Earl. By Amanda Mariel.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Miss Rose Woodcourt is a seamstress, she lives with her grandmother. Her life would be fine if it wasn't for a certain Mr Wolfe who is doing everything in his power to force her to marry him. She has no idea just how much he has already done. Hunter Thorne, the Earl of Aubry has accompanied his sister to the seamstress. The unfortunate woman is being bullied. That is something Hunter can not allow. He will help her even if she doesn't want him to. Rose is just as suspicious of Hunter's motives. Lords do not waste time on ordinary misses.
Mr Wolfe is more dangerous than Hunter and Rose suspect.
A lively, sweet romance with lovely characters.
Wish Upon A Kiss. By Meara Platt.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Winifred is rushing to take her place as a May princess at the village fair. She encounters a handsome man who looks like a Viking pirate and assumes he is in costume for the fair.
Ardaric has been asked to check up on "little" Winnie on his way home. He discovers she is in mortal danger. He must now protect her and find out why she is in danger.
This is a sweet romance, almost a fairy tale. I found our heroine a little to child like for a woman of her age. Our hero though totally was up to the task. Everyone's identity is questionable. Lots of secrets that have been hidden for years. The villains don't seem to have all been accounted for, so maybe more to come.
A Duke Worth His Salt. By Allison Merritt.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Eleanor and her sisters are waiting for their father to return from a trip to a newly inherited property. Unfortunately he was injured on the trip and he is having trouble with his memory. For some reason the sight of Eleanor sends him into a rage. So to keep out of his way she decides to go to the estate.
Daniel Goodwin the Duke of Greenebuck is happiest alone on his estate trying to write his book. He avoids the London season because he is determined never to marry. The idea of passing on his tainted blood line terrifies him.
This is good fun our sneaky heroine finds a wonderful way to hide. Our sad and a little lonely hero finds it easier to mix with the staff of the household nextdoor than be the man everyone expects of him.
I loved it.
Masquerading As A Miss. By Ari Thatcher.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Colin Wentworth,Viscount Spalding has suffered from sea sickness the whole journey from Jamaica. Now they are nearly home and a storm is tossing him around his cabin like a toy.
Miss Cassandra Franklin is travelling to England to try and find the only family she has left. A great aunt whose surname Cassandra can't remember.
When they eventually reach England Cassandra has to rely on the good graces of Lord Spalding's family until she can find her own. Even she begins to doubt her heritage.
This is a very exciting and sexy story. Our protagonists face tremendous peril. This is as much an adventure as a romance. Definitely an engrossing tale you won't want to miss. I loved it.
Searching For My Rogue. By Dawn Browser.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2015.
Alys Dewitt is a newly qualified surgeon. She is also maid of honour at her sister's wedding. Its taking place in his family's home Weston Manor. The bridegroom is a younger brother to the Duke of Weston. Her sister demanded a regency themed wedding, so everyone is in period clothes. After the wedding Alys is feeling strange so takes a walk near the edge of the cliffs.
1815.
James Kendall, the new Duke of Weston has had to resign his commission and come home from the battlefield of Waterloo because of the death of his brother. Still suffering the effects of his wounds, when he arrives on the beach near his home he finds an unconscious woman there.
This lovely time travel romance puts our thoroughly modern woman two hundred years in the past. In an age where men are used to women who do as they are told and let men make the decisions for them. Our hero has a lot to learn. He is a honourable man only trying to do his best and protect the fiery woman who has dropped into his life.
Great fun. I loved it. I will look for more from this new to me author.
The Enchanted Cave. By Sue London.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Baron Galen Morley has heard that his best friends might be getting themselves into trouble again. It falls to him as the sensible one of the Mad Clan to get them out of it.
Maeve O'Malley and her "Irish sisters" are bare knuckle fighters at a club called the Enchanted Cave. Unlike the other girls Maeve doesn't earn extra after the fights by having sex with the gentlemen who come to watch them fight.
Wow! I have never read a regency romance anything like this before. I don't know if clubs like this existed, but it certainly made an exciting story. We have a sweet innocent heroine who packs a knockout punch. Our hero is known for being dull and boring and his behaviour will rock society. I loved it.
Taming Beauty By Lynne Barron.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lilith Aberdeen is accompanying her half sister and their father to Cornwall for her sister's wedding. Jasper Edward Grimley, the Baron Malleville has bought up all her father' s debts and the marriage is the price that must be paid.
Baron Malleville feels that because Lord Dunaway (the girls father) seduced his intended bride, he will force him to sacrifice his innocent daughter to pay his debts.
Our hero made a terrible mistake in his youth and is doing his best to rescue his family honour and finances. Our heroine is an illegitimate daughter of a known courtesan. She has been raised very differently to her half sister. She loves her father but knows he is a scoundrel. Once she understands his motives for her being part of the wedding party she rebels.
A very intense and amusing romance. I loved it.
Stealing A Lady's Heart. By Tammy Andersen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Graham Fairfield is the third of four sons . Their father the Baron Fairfield has been having problems and sent his sons to learn different trades. Now they have returned home those trades can hopefully be used to repair the estate.
Lady Charlotte Beaumont is travelling to visit a friend, and hee father has told her to stop at several different homes along the way. She knows he is hoping she will find a man to marry in one of the houses.
This is a strange regency romance. It is based on a Brothers Grimm tale. There is an evil marquess that uses unusual methods to kidnap Charlotte. Can our ordinary man and his brothers rescue the damsel in distress. A magical adventure.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Russell Hawke has inherited a theatre along with his father's estate. Unfortunately as much as he would like to keep it, it has not been profitable, and with a mother and three sisters to provide for he must sell it.
Claudine Bellerose is an actress and now a playwright. Her first production is due to start soon. Then the company is told the theatre will close before they get the chance to put on the play. Claudine has had enough of men controlling her life, and will not stand for it.
This is the second book in a series but is easily read as a stand alone. It is a fun story with a little unexpected danger. Our hero is very unusual in his view of his responsibilities. Our heroine is only just coming to realize how good life can be, after years of struggle and abuse. The secondary characters are some that show up in the previous book, and hopefully the ones still to come. I will definitely be eagerly waiting for the next book.
Enchanted By The Earl. By Amanda Mariel.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Miss Rose Woodcourt is a seamstress, she lives with her grandmother. Her life would be fine if it wasn't for a certain Mr Wolfe who is doing everything in his power to force her to marry him. She has no idea just how much he has already done. Hunter Thorne, the Earl of Aubry has accompanied his sister to the seamstress. The unfortunate woman is being bullied. That is something Hunter can not allow. He will help her even if she doesn't want him to. Rose is just as suspicious of Hunter's motives. Lords do not waste time on ordinary misses.
Mr Wolfe is more dangerous than Hunter and Rose suspect.
A lively, sweet romance with lovely characters.
Wish Upon A Kiss. By Meara Platt.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Winifred is rushing to take her place as a May princess at the village fair. She encounters a handsome man who looks like a Viking pirate and assumes he is in costume for the fair.
Ardaric has been asked to check up on "little" Winnie on his way home. He discovers she is in mortal danger. He must now protect her and find out why she is in danger.
This is a sweet romance, almost a fairy tale. I found our heroine a little to child like for a woman of her age. Our hero though totally was up to the task. Everyone's identity is questionable. Lots of secrets that have been hidden for years. The villains don't seem to have all been accounted for, so maybe more to come.
A Duke Worth His Salt. By Allison Merritt.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Eleanor and her sisters are waiting for their father to return from a trip to a newly inherited property. Unfortunately he was injured on the trip and he is having trouble with his memory. For some reason the sight of Eleanor sends him into a rage. So to keep out of his way she decides to go to the estate.
Daniel Goodwin the Duke of Greenebuck is happiest alone on his estate trying to write his book. He avoids the London season because he is determined never to marry. The idea of passing on his tainted blood line terrifies him.
This is good fun our sneaky heroine finds a wonderful way to hide. Our sad and a little lonely hero finds it easier to mix with the staff of the household nextdoor than be the man everyone expects of him.
I loved it.
Masquerading As A Miss. By Ari Thatcher.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Colin Wentworth,Viscount Spalding has suffered from sea sickness the whole journey from Jamaica. Now they are nearly home and a storm is tossing him around his cabin like a toy.
Miss Cassandra Franklin is travelling to England to try and find the only family she has left. A great aunt whose surname Cassandra can't remember.
When they eventually reach England Cassandra has to rely on the good graces of Lord Spalding's family until she can find her own. Even she begins to doubt her heritage.
This is a very exciting and sexy story. Our protagonists face tremendous peril. This is as much an adventure as a romance. Definitely an engrossing tale you won't want to miss. I loved it.
Searching For My Rogue. By Dawn Browser.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2015.
Alys Dewitt is a newly qualified surgeon. She is also maid of honour at her sister's wedding. Its taking place in his family's home Weston Manor. The bridegroom is a younger brother to the Duke of Weston. Her sister demanded a regency themed wedding, so everyone is in period clothes. After the wedding Alys is feeling strange so takes a walk near the edge of the cliffs.
1815.
James Kendall, the new Duke of Weston has had to resign his commission and come home from the battlefield of Waterloo because of the death of his brother. Still suffering the effects of his wounds, when he arrives on the beach near his home he finds an unconscious woman there.
This lovely time travel romance puts our thoroughly modern woman two hundred years in the past. In an age where men are used to women who do as they are told and let men make the decisions for them. Our hero has a lot to learn. He is a honourable man only trying to do his best and protect the fiery woman who has dropped into his life.
Great fun. I loved it. I will look for more from this new to me author.
The Enchanted Cave. By Sue London.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Baron Galen Morley has heard that his best friends might be getting themselves into trouble again. It falls to him as the sensible one of the Mad Clan to get them out of it.
Maeve O'Malley and her "Irish sisters" are bare knuckle fighters at a club called the Enchanted Cave. Unlike the other girls Maeve doesn't earn extra after the fights by having sex with the gentlemen who come to watch them fight.
Wow! I have never read a regency romance anything like this before. I don't know if clubs like this existed, but it certainly made an exciting story. We have a sweet innocent heroine who packs a knockout punch. Our hero is known for being dull and boring and his behaviour will rock society. I loved it.
Taming Beauty By Lynne Barron.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lilith Aberdeen is accompanying her half sister and their father to Cornwall for her sister's wedding. Jasper Edward Grimley, the Baron Malleville has bought up all her father' s debts and the marriage is the price that must be paid.
Baron Malleville feels that because Lord Dunaway (the girls father) seduced his intended bride, he will force him to sacrifice his innocent daughter to pay his debts.
Our hero made a terrible mistake in his youth and is doing his best to rescue his family honour and finances. Our heroine is an illegitimate daughter of a known courtesan. She has been raised very differently to her half sister. She loves her father but knows he is a scoundrel. Once she understands his motives for her being part of the wedding party she rebels.
A very intense and amusing romance. I loved it.
Stealing A Lady's Heart. By Tammy Andersen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Graham Fairfield is the third of four sons . Their father the Baron Fairfield has been having problems and sent his sons to learn different trades. Now they have returned home those trades can hopefully be used to repair the estate.
Lady Charlotte Beaumont is travelling to visit a friend, and hee father has told her to stop at several different homes along the way. She knows he is hoping she will find a man to marry in one of the houses.
This is a strange regency romance. It is based on a Brothers Grimm tale. There is an evil marquess that uses unusual methods to kidnap Charlotte. Can our ordinary man and his brothers rescue the damsel in distress. A magical adventure.
February 7, 2019
Enjoyable
Enjoyable read. Good plots, great characters. Wished some were longer as they ended to soon. I would recommend this collection
Enjoyable read. Good plots, great characters. Wished some were longer as they ended to soon. I would recommend this collection
July 7, 2016
Some Stories More Successful Than Others
This is a collection of nine novellas.
RESISTING ROMEO by Samantha Grace: Claudine Bellerose is an actress and now a first time playwright when Russell Hawke inherits the playhouse and intends to sell it and evict the theater company. Claudine comes to convince him to reconsider. There is also danger and attempted murder in the air. I really liked these characters but thought that this story was too large for the short length of the novella and the action detracted from the romance. Rating: 3 stars.
ENCHANTED BY THE EARL by Amanda Mariel: Rosa Woodcourt is a seamstress who is threatened by her own Wolfe who is determined to marry her despite her wishes to the contrary. Hunter Thorne, Earl of Aubry feels compelled to rescue Rose despite knowing that there can never be anything serious between a seamstress and an earl. This story was mostly driven by the plot and the relationship was not as in focus here. Rating: 2.5 stars.
WISH UPON A KISS by Meara Platt: Winifred Kingslay is a young miss who lives with her godmothers when she is chosen to dance the maypole. She meets a man who rescues her from some mad beasts. Ardaric, Duke of Blantyre doesn't tell Winnie who he actually is but spends the night protecting her. Magic and danger and secrets surround them. This was my favorite of the collection because it had a definite fairytale tone. The story kept me guessing as to the outcome and the relationship between Winnie and Ardaric was sweet. Rating: 4 stars.
A DUKE WORTH HIS SALT by Allison Merritt: Lady Eleanor Martin leaves home for one of her father's other estates when an injury to her father leaves him without memory of her. She wants to avoid the neighbor Daniel Goodwin, Duke of Greenebuck so she masquerades as a shepherdess, but the two fall in love anyway. I liked these characters a lot and I wish there was more to this story. At times, the story was rushed and uneven, but I liked the characters a lot. Rating: 3.5 stars.
MASQUERADING AS A MISS by Ari Thatcher: Miss Cassandra Franklin and Colin Wentworth, Lord Spalding are survivors of a boat sinking. Traveling together as the two try and find Cassandra's family, the two become close even though she is not a suitable bride. I found this story disjointed with too much going on and no real strong narrative. Rating: 1.5 stars.
SEARCHING FOR A ROGUE by Dawn Brower: In a play on Alice in Wonderland, modern Alys Dewitt finds herself 200 years in the past in Regency England where she meets the Duke of Weston. I wanted to like this story but kept getting bored or distracted and wanting to skim more than savor. I just don't think there was enough drama going on to make the story worth reading and little chemistry between the hero and heroine. Rating: 1.5 stars.
THE ENCHANTED CAVE by Sue London: Baron Galen Mornay comes the the brothel The Enchanted Cave to save his friends from the women there. There he meets Irish commoner and female boxer Maeve O'Malley. I thought this story had a great premise and I enjoyed the story, but I didn't think there was any real romance involved. Rating: 2.5 stars.
TAMING BEAUTY by Lynne Barron: Lilith Aberdeen is the illegitimate daughter accompanying her father and sister to her sister's wedding to Lord Malleville. He needs to marry a woman of perfect character to help restore his own. I found this one boring even though I tend to love beauty and the beast stories. Nothing about the characters or the story appealed to me. Rating 1 star.
STEALING A LADY'S HEART by Tammy Andresen: Lady Charlotte Beaumont meet the Graham Fairfield third son of a poor baron, one of the sons sent to learn a trade. Charlotte is also being pursued by a Marquess who seems to possess dark powers. I liked this one because of the intriguing storyline and the less know tale that it is based on. Rating: 3 stars.
This is a collection of nine novellas.
RESISTING ROMEO by Samantha Grace: Claudine Bellerose is an actress and now a first time playwright when Russell Hawke inherits the playhouse and intends to sell it and evict the theater company. Claudine comes to convince him to reconsider. There is also danger and attempted murder in the air. I really liked these characters but thought that this story was too large for the short length of the novella and the action detracted from the romance. Rating: 3 stars.
ENCHANTED BY THE EARL by Amanda Mariel: Rosa Woodcourt is a seamstress who is threatened by her own Wolfe who is determined to marry her despite her wishes to the contrary. Hunter Thorne, Earl of Aubry feels compelled to rescue Rose despite knowing that there can never be anything serious between a seamstress and an earl. This story was mostly driven by the plot and the relationship was not as in focus here. Rating: 2.5 stars.
WISH UPON A KISS by Meara Platt: Winifred Kingslay is a young miss who lives with her godmothers when she is chosen to dance the maypole. She meets a man who rescues her from some mad beasts. Ardaric, Duke of Blantyre doesn't tell Winnie who he actually is but spends the night protecting her. Magic and danger and secrets surround them. This was my favorite of the collection because it had a definite fairytale tone. The story kept me guessing as to the outcome and the relationship between Winnie and Ardaric was sweet. Rating: 4 stars.
A DUKE WORTH HIS SALT by Allison Merritt: Lady Eleanor Martin leaves home for one of her father's other estates when an injury to her father leaves him without memory of her. She wants to avoid the neighbor Daniel Goodwin, Duke of Greenebuck so she masquerades as a shepherdess, but the two fall in love anyway. I liked these characters a lot and I wish there was more to this story. At times, the story was rushed and uneven, but I liked the characters a lot. Rating: 3.5 stars.
MASQUERADING AS A MISS by Ari Thatcher: Miss Cassandra Franklin and Colin Wentworth, Lord Spalding are survivors of a boat sinking. Traveling together as the two try and find Cassandra's family, the two become close even though she is not a suitable bride. I found this story disjointed with too much going on and no real strong narrative. Rating: 1.5 stars.
SEARCHING FOR A ROGUE by Dawn Brower: In a play on Alice in Wonderland, modern Alys Dewitt finds herself 200 years in the past in Regency England where she meets the Duke of Weston. I wanted to like this story but kept getting bored or distracted and wanting to skim more than savor. I just don't think there was enough drama going on to make the story worth reading and little chemistry between the hero and heroine. Rating: 1.5 stars.
THE ENCHANTED CAVE by Sue London: Baron Galen Mornay comes the the brothel The Enchanted Cave to save his friends from the women there. There he meets Irish commoner and female boxer Maeve O'Malley. I thought this story had a great premise and I enjoyed the story, but I didn't think there was any real romance involved. Rating: 2.5 stars.
TAMING BEAUTY by Lynne Barron: Lilith Aberdeen is the illegitimate daughter accompanying her father and sister to her sister's wedding to Lord Malleville. He needs to marry a woman of perfect character to help restore his own. I found this one boring even though I tend to love beauty and the beast stories. Nothing about the characters or the story appealed to me. Rating 1 star.
STEALING A LADY'S HEART by Tammy Andresen: Lady Charlotte Beaumont meet the Graham Fairfield third son of a poor baron, one of the sons sent to learn a trade. Charlotte is also being pursued by a Marquess who seems to possess dark powers. I liked this one because of the intriguing storyline and the less know tale that it is based on. Rating: 3 stars.
February 7, 2016
Love love love it!!!!!
I don't know where to start. I love the retelling of old fables. I love the fact that it was not the famous of the fables that were re told Sith a huge twist. Now I would love to know if the authors are going to write stories for the other characters in the books. I love them all but specially love "The Enchanted Cave, Taming Beauty and Stealing a Lady's Heart". I would love to read stories about the rest of the characters. can't wait for more, this is definitely a MUST READ!!!!!
I don't know where to start. I love the retelling of old fables. I love the fact that it was not the famous of the fables that were re told Sith a huge twist. Now I would love to know if the authors are going to write stories for the other characters in the books. I love them all but specially love "The Enchanted Cave, Taming Beauty and Stealing a Lady's Heart". I would love to read stories about the rest of the characters. can't wait for more, this is definitely a MUST READ!!!!!
Want to read
March 10, 2016Resisting Romeo by Samantha Grace
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel
Wish Upon a Kiss by Meara Platt
A Duke Worth His Salt by Allison Merritt
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher
Searching for My Rogue by Dawn Brower
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andresen
Enchanted by the Earl by Amanda Mariel
Wish Upon a Kiss by Meara Platt
A Duke Worth His Salt by Allison Merritt
Masquerading as a Miss by Ari Thatcher
Searching for My Rogue by Dawn Brower
The Enchanted Cave by Sue London
Taming Beauty by Lynne Barron
Stealing a Lady’s Heart by Tammy Andresen
June 10, 2016
Wow what a collection, I couldn't pick a favorite amount them . Each story was different and I think that's what made it such a lovely book. Have definitely found some new authors I now must follow just so I can read more of their stuff
March 29, 2016
Great book
I absolutely loved all the stories. Usually I don't like old century past stories. These held my attention the whole time. Loved all the heroines.
I absolutely loved all the stories. Usually I don't like old century past stories. These held my attention the whole time. Loved all the heroines.
May 13, 2016
Some of the tales in this collection was quite interesting to read and made for a pleasurable read at a good pace. Others, were a slow read and not as interesting as one would expect.
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