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The Notorious St. Claires #4.5 included
Regency Christmas Proposals
The best present comes in a small box!
The Soldier's Christmas" Miracle by Gayle Wilson
Wounded soldier Guy Wakefield has finally found the woman who saved his life. Isabella Stowe accepts his gratitude, but it will take more than a kiss under the mistletoe to convince this world-weary widow to accept his proposal….
"Snowbound and Seduced" by Amanda McCabe
Mary Bassington, Lady Derrington, longs to be the carefree woman she once was. But she gets more than she bargained for this Christmas when she's snowbound with old flame Dominick, Viscount Amesby, who reignites her passion for life—and love
"Christmas at Mulberry Hall" by Carole Mortimer
Spending Christmas alone with his unconventional ward pushes the boundaries of propriety—and self-control—too far for Lord Gideon Grayson. So he takes delectably pure Amelia Ashford to Mulberry Hall—but that pesky mistletoe is still all around….
The Soldier's Christmas" Miracle by Gayle Wilson
Wounded soldier Guy Wakefield has finally found the woman who saved his life. Isabella Stowe accepts his gratitude, but it will take more than a kiss under the mistletoe to convince this world-weary widow to accept his proposal….
"Snowbound and Seduced" by Amanda McCabe
Mary Bassington, Lady Derrington, longs to be the carefree woman she once was. But she gets more than she bargained for this Christmas when she's snowbound with old flame Dominick, Viscount Amesby, who reignites her passion for life—and love
"Christmas at Mulberry Hall" by Carole Mortimer
Spending Christmas alone with his unconventional ward pushes the boundaries of propriety—and self-control—too far for Lord Gideon Grayson. So he takes delectably pure Amelia Ashford to Mulberry Hall—but that pesky mistletoe is still all around….
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2010
23 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Gayle Wilson
150 books86 followersGayle Wilson is a two-time RITA® Award winner, taking home the RITA® Award for Best Romantic Suspense Novel in 2000 and for Best Romantic Novella in 2004. In addition to twice winning the prestigious RITA® Award, Gayle’s books have garnered more than 50 other awards and nominations, including most recently the Daphne du Maurier Award for the Best Single Title Romantic Suspense of 2008, awarded to Victim, her latest novel from MIRA.
Gayle holds a master’s degree in secondary education, with additional certification in the education of the gifted. Although her specialty was teaching honors and gifted students, as a former high school history and English teacher, she taught everything from remedial reading to Shakespeare—and loved every minute she spent in the classroom.
Gayle was on the board of directors of Romance Writers of America for four years. In 2006 she served as the president of RWA, the largest genre-writers’ organization in the world.
Gayle has written 41 novels and four novellas for Harlequin Enterprises, including works for Harlequin Historicals, Harlequin Intrigue, Special Releases, HQN Books, MIRA, and Mills & Boon.
Gayle holds a master’s degree in secondary education, with additional certification in the education of the gifted. Although her specialty was teaching honors and gifted students, as a former high school history and English teacher, she taught everything from remedial reading to Shakespeare—and loved every minute she spent in the classroom.
Gayle was on the board of directors of Romance Writers of America for four years. In 2006 she served as the president of RWA, the largest genre-writers’ organization in the world.
Gayle has written 41 novels and four novellas for Harlequin Enterprises, including works for Harlequin Historicals, Harlequin Intrigue, Special Releases, HQN Books, MIRA, and Mills & Boon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 30, 2018
MIRACOLO DI NATALE
3 stelline
Carino ma niente di eccezionale, non mi ha presa molto. Un ex-soldato alla ricerca dell'infermiera che l'aveva curato quando è stato ferito in guerra e quando la trova fa di tutto per conquistarla. Sinceramente Isabella, l'ho trovata troppo ripetitiva: non ha fatto che ripetere le stesse frasi (che si possono sintetizzare con: no, non posso stare con te perché siamo troppo diversi) finché alla fine ha avuto questa epifania (che non aveva ne capo ne coda) ed è corsa da lui.
LA SECONDA POSSIBILITÀ
4 stelline
Questa mi è piaciuta di più! Dominick e Mary non hanno potuto sposarsi quando erano giovani a causa dei genitori di lei, ma, l'amore ancora forte tra di loro e la fuga della sorella di lei con il cugino di lui, li hanno riuniti.
NATALE A MULBERRY HALL
5 stelline
Tra le tre la mia storia preferita: la scandalosa relazione tra un tutore e la sua pupilla (beh, non proprio... più un tutore e la sua pupilla che si innamorano... ma suonava meglio come l'ho scritta prima ;p). Devo dire che all'inizio avevo qualche dubbio sulla sanità mentale di Amelia visto che, quando si trova imprigionata tra le braccia di uno sconosciuto che si è introdotto in casa sua, all'inizio le piace stare lì, ma per fortuna si riprende quasi subito. E mi sono chiesta anche cosa ci trovasse in Gideon all'inizio perché è stato davvero odioso fin dalla loro prima conversazione. Uno punto a sfavore il cambio repentino di carattere di Gideon dopo che si sono confessati i reciproci sentimenti, ma visto che sono le ultime due pagine si può soprassedere.
3 stelline
Carino ma niente di eccezionale, non mi ha presa molto. Un ex-soldato alla ricerca dell'infermiera che l'aveva curato quando è stato ferito in guerra e quando la trova fa di tutto per conquistarla. Sinceramente Isabella, l'ho trovata troppo ripetitiva: non ha fatto che ripetere le stesse frasi (che si possono sintetizzare con: no, non posso stare con te perché siamo troppo diversi) finché alla fine ha avuto questa epifania (che non aveva ne capo ne coda) ed è corsa da lui.
LA SECONDA POSSIBILITÀ
4 stelline
Questa mi è piaciuta di più! Dominick e Mary non hanno potuto sposarsi quando erano giovani a causa dei genitori di lei, ma, l'amore ancora forte tra di loro e la fuga della sorella di lei con il cugino di lui, li hanno riuniti.
NATALE A MULBERRY HALL
5 stelline
Tra le tre la mia storia preferita: la scandalosa relazione tra un tutore e la sua pupilla (beh, non proprio... più un tutore e la sua pupilla che si innamorano... ma suonava meglio come l'ho scritta prima ;p). Devo dire che all'inizio avevo qualche dubbio sulla sanità mentale di Amelia visto che, quando si trova imprigionata tra le braccia di uno sconosciuto che si è introdotto in casa sua, all'inizio le piace stare lì, ma per fortuna si riprende quasi subito. E mi sono chiesta anche cosa ci trovasse in Gideon all'inizio perché è stato davvero odioso fin dalla loro prima conversazione. Uno punto a sfavore il cambio repentino di carattere di Gideon dopo che si sono confessati i reciproci sentimenti, ma visto che sono le ultime due pagine si può soprassedere.
December 30, 2016
2.5 stars
December 11, 2010
Holiday themed anthology - stories were only average - didn't seem to have that certain something that makes a holiday read feel warm and fuzzy.
I found the first story's whining heroine so annoying that I skipped to the end. She really didn't improve much.
I found the first story's whining heroine so annoying that I skipped to the end. She really didn't improve much.
November 30, 2010
REGENCY CHRISTMAS PROPOSALS is a fantastic holiday anthology. I loved each of the stories. As with all Harlequin anthologies the stories are short and sweet. In both The Soldier’s Christmas Miracle and Snowbound and Seduced the couples knew each other prior to the beginning of the story. I like when this happens in an anthology because it helps make a short story more believable - the couple already has a beginning of a relationship. Of the three, Christmas at Mulberry Hall was the only one where the couple didn’t know each other and that the relationship moved at warp speed. It wasn’t my favorite story because it felt so fast, but I still liked the characters.
January 9, 2018
Two 3 star short stories
The heroine in the first story acted kindly to an injured soldier. That soldier, now an aristocrat, finds her years later to thank her. They have one conversation and they are in love (even if she doesn't know it yet). The heroine is annoyingly prideful.
The second story is of second chances. I couldn't get past the assault to finish the 3rd story.
The heroine in the first story acted kindly to an injured soldier. That soldier, now an aristocrat, finds her years later to thank her. They have one conversation and they are in love (even if she doesn't know it yet). The heroine is annoyingly prideful.
The second story is of second chances. I couldn't get past the assault to finish the 3rd story.
December 15, 2014
One excellent story, one good story, and one okay story. An enjoyable collection.
December 31, 2013
This collection of Christmas romance stories, all set in the Regency period of English history, is definitely a nice one to have around when the snow is falling outside, and one is curled up by the fire, with a cup of hot chocolate or tea. It's even nice when one has fled to the comfort of an air-conditioned room, while the December temperatures outside are in the 80s! Whether you're sipping a hot drink, or a cool smoothie, these stories will be sure to transport you to another century, as well as another culture.
However, I must say that I didn't like all three stories equally. I prefer the first two, and there are several reasons for this preference. In the first story, "The Soldier's Christmas Miracle", we get solidly fleshed-out, very compelling characters, even within the confines of a short story. The premise behind the plot -- that of a very grateful soldier -- is a good one, and is plausible, as well. Guy Wakefield is a very sensitive man, one who is noble and kind, for he doesn't force himself on the woman he's grateful to -- the widowed Isabella Stowe. Granted, he is pretty insistent in winning her affections, but remains a gentleman throughout. It's Isabella who finally comes to her senses, and decides to accept his courtship. The relationship does take some time to develop, reaching an important crisis point when Isabella believes that Guy once again needs her help.
I found this to be a very sweet, gentle story, one that gave me the warm, fuzzy feelings that a good romance usually leaves its readers with. I certainly want to read more of Gayle Wilson's work!
The second story, "Snowbound and Seduced", was also great reading! It had a very poignant, rather nostalgic tone throughout, as well, because it involved a relationship that should have gotten the participants to the altar, but didn't. Years later, circumstances once again bring them together, and they join forces in order to stop a crazy elopement -- that of Lady Derrington's younger sister. Once again, both of the main characters are well-developed, and very likable. Dominick is a wonderful man, and the widowed Mary (Lady Derrington), although guilt-ridden because she's a very responsible person, also longs to throw caution to the winds, and give free rein to her passionate love for this man she should have married years before, but couldn't, due to certain circumstances.
The one thing I found slightly objectionable about this second story was that there was a little too much sex in it (although it wasn't overly graphic) for a Christmas story. In spite of this, I greatly enjoyed reading about Dominick and Mary's relationship! I also discovered a slight Jane Austen influence in the plot, which totally delighted me!
Unfortunately, I didn't like the third story, "Christmas at Mulberry Hall", quite as much as I did the other two. For one thing, I just couldn't feel much interest in the characters, because I really couldn't like them much. Their dialogues were rather stereotyped, and reminded me too much of those in Jane Eyre, although Ms. Mortimer is not as witty as Charlotte Bronte. Still, Lord Grayson does come across as a Mr. Rochester clone, although he's not half as attractive, mysterious, or irresistibly masculine as that gentleman is. As for his ward, Amelia Ashford, I liked her less than I did Grayson, and couldn't relate to her supposed plight. She is at first a total ingénue, but then later practically throws herself at Grayson. At one point, she even cries all over him, while he attempts to calm her down without getting to a 'point of no return', sexually speaking. Amelia's behavior in this scene was totally inconsistent with the way she was initially presented.
This story develops much too fast. The characters are very antagonistic toward each other at the beginning, but in a matter of just a few days, they're madly declaring their love for each other. This is totally illogical, given the circumstances in the story. There's no time lapse, as in the other two stories. Everything takes place within the space of less than a week. This is just not believable.
This story is an example of the sort of plot that should really be allowed to develop within the longer novel format. Wilson and McCabe were definitely able to accomplish their goal of uniting the lovers in their stories in spite of all obstacles, all within the confines of the short-story format. For some reason, Mortimer is unable to do this, at least not in a believable manner.
This story also has a rather peculiar thing about it -- the author uses too many exclamation points, especially in the beginning. This is a rare occurrence in professional stories, and I was very surprised to find it in this one. Amateur story writers usually indulge in this type of thing much too often. It's very annoying, and tends to take the reader right out of the story, too. Mortimer really should have known better.
Much as I would love to give this collection a solid five stars, I find myself unable to do so, and it's completely due to that third story. That's a shame, because the first two stories are certainly great examples of the romance storyteller's art. The third story, though, simply wasn't all it should have been. Had the author decided to expand it into a full-length novel, dropping most of the exclamation points along the way, I do feel it would have improved immeasurably.
Since the first two stories were, indeed, really good, I will give this book four stars. I do recommend it, however, because the first two stories are really and truly worth reading. I would go as far as to say that they're magical, because, as all lovers know, falling in love is truly a magical experience! Therefore, curl up by the fire, or adjust your air conditioner, as the case may be, and settle down with this book. Just don't get your hopes up too high about that third story!
However, I must say that I didn't like all three stories equally. I prefer the first two, and there are several reasons for this preference. In the first story, "The Soldier's Christmas Miracle", we get solidly fleshed-out, very compelling characters, even within the confines of a short story. The premise behind the plot -- that of a very grateful soldier -- is a good one, and is plausible, as well. Guy Wakefield is a very sensitive man, one who is noble and kind, for he doesn't force himself on the woman he's grateful to -- the widowed Isabella Stowe. Granted, he is pretty insistent in winning her affections, but remains a gentleman throughout. It's Isabella who finally comes to her senses, and decides to accept his courtship. The relationship does take some time to develop, reaching an important crisis point when Isabella believes that Guy once again needs her help.
I found this to be a very sweet, gentle story, one that gave me the warm, fuzzy feelings that a good romance usually leaves its readers with. I certainly want to read more of Gayle Wilson's work!
The second story, "Snowbound and Seduced", was also great reading! It had a very poignant, rather nostalgic tone throughout, as well, because it involved a relationship that should have gotten the participants to the altar, but didn't. Years later, circumstances once again bring them together, and they join forces in order to stop a crazy elopement -- that of Lady Derrington's younger sister. Once again, both of the main characters are well-developed, and very likable. Dominick is a wonderful man, and the widowed Mary (Lady Derrington), although guilt-ridden because she's a very responsible person, also longs to throw caution to the winds, and give free rein to her passionate love for this man she should have married years before, but couldn't, due to certain circumstances.
The one thing I found slightly objectionable about this second story was that there was a little too much sex in it (although it wasn't overly graphic) for a Christmas story. In spite of this, I greatly enjoyed reading about Dominick and Mary's relationship! I also discovered a slight Jane Austen influence in the plot, which totally delighted me!
Unfortunately, I didn't like the third story, "Christmas at Mulberry Hall", quite as much as I did the other two. For one thing, I just couldn't feel much interest in the characters, because I really couldn't like them much. Their dialogues were rather stereotyped, and reminded me too much of those in Jane Eyre, although Ms. Mortimer is not as witty as Charlotte Bronte. Still, Lord Grayson does come across as a Mr. Rochester clone, although he's not half as attractive, mysterious, or irresistibly masculine as that gentleman is. As for his ward, Amelia Ashford, I liked her less than I did Grayson, and couldn't relate to her supposed plight. She is at first a total ingénue, but then later practically throws herself at Grayson. At one point, she even cries all over him, while he attempts to calm her down without getting to a 'point of no return', sexually speaking. Amelia's behavior in this scene was totally inconsistent with the way she was initially presented.
This story develops much too fast. The characters are very antagonistic toward each other at the beginning, but in a matter of just a few days, they're madly declaring their love for each other. This is totally illogical, given the circumstances in the story. There's no time lapse, as in the other two stories. Everything takes place within the space of less than a week. This is just not believable.
This story is an example of the sort of plot that should really be allowed to develop within the longer novel format. Wilson and McCabe were definitely able to accomplish their goal of uniting the lovers in their stories in spite of all obstacles, all within the confines of the short-story format. For some reason, Mortimer is unable to do this, at least not in a believable manner.
This story also has a rather peculiar thing about it -- the author uses too many exclamation points, especially in the beginning. This is a rare occurrence in professional stories, and I was very surprised to find it in this one. Amateur story writers usually indulge in this type of thing much too often. It's very annoying, and tends to take the reader right out of the story, too. Mortimer really should have known better.
Much as I would love to give this collection a solid five stars, I find myself unable to do so, and it's completely due to that third story. That's a shame, because the first two stories are certainly great examples of the romance storyteller's art. The third story, though, simply wasn't all it should have been. Had the author decided to expand it into a full-length novel, dropping most of the exclamation points along the way, I do feel it would have improved immeasurably.
Since the first two stories were, indeed, really good, I will give this book four stars. I do recommend it, however, because the first two stories are really and truly worth reading. I would go as far as to say that they're magical, because, as all lovers know, falling in love is truly a magical experience! Therefore, curl up by the fire, or adjust your air conditioner, as the case may be, and settle down with this book. Just don't get your hopes up too high about that third story!
December 6, 2023
The first one dragged. On and on, back and forth. I was almost ready to tear my hair out between the communication and indecision. It felt like the author didn’t know how to make it last the full 30k words (or however many there are in a short story) without making them indecisive as hell. Good grief.
The second one was better. Definitely the best of the three. It at least had good pacing and characters with depth.
The third one was the worst. Awful. The misogyny was jaw dropping, the writing juvenile. The excess of exclamation points was nauseating.
The second one was better. Definitely the best of the three. It at least had good pacing and characters with depth.
The third one was the worst. Awful. The misogyny was jaw dropping, the writing juvenile. The excess of exclamation points was nauseating.
December 20, 2017
I really enjoyed the first two stories, The Soldier's Christmas Miracle by Gayle Wilson and Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe, both stories about second chances. The third one I am afraid I could not get past the first chapter. There i nothing romantic about a man taking advantage of a scared young woman.
December 26, 2022
Was in a Christmassy mood. The first story had some good points, though I don’t know why Isabella was so stubborn. Second story was fine too. Third story was annoying. Too many exclamation points! Silly main female character. The St Claire men are described as all handsome and the women drop-dead gorgeous, every single one of them. Barf.
August 18, 2020
I enjoyed every story. Loved all the characters. Each story captured my e. The woman were s mart, strong and beautiful. The men were fantastic. I doing want them to end. Thank you all for writing them. Keep writing.Thanks
January 4, 2022
Credo di aver letto tre dei romanzi rosa più banali mai scritti.
Prevedibili e con personaggi di poco spessore, ho finito la raccolta solo perché non mi piace lasciare i libri a metà, specie il primo che leggo nell’anno.
Prevedibili e con personaggi di poco spessore, ho finito la raccolta solo perché non mi piace lasciare i libri a metà, specie il primo che leggo nell’anno.
August 24, 2023
I’ll sometimes let instant/practically instant love slide but Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer was ridiculous and not at all romantic.
December 30, 2020
3.5 rounded up :)
November 19, 2025
3 collection of short stories inside one book with a healthy dose of Christmas sparks.... Each story focuses on the respective elite dukes or earls trying to win the love of women, hence the title.....very classic and simple.....
December 28, 2010
I love Regency Christmas romances. I’m not sure why this is my favorite type of Christmas novel, but it is!
Regency Christmas Proposals contains three great regency Christmas romance novellas for an overall highly enjoyable experience. I will discuss each novella separately.
The Soldier’s Christmas Miracle by Gayle Wilson
Guy Wakefield was seriously wounded while fighting Napoleon on the continent. He was nursed and inspired by a mystery woman whose words of encouragement helped him to carry on and recover. Guy spends the next five years searching for this mysterious woman. Isabella Stowe is this woman. Mrs. Stowe is the widow of her great love, William, and is having a rough time financially. She is not sure why someone of Wakefield’s social status would visit her, and when she finds out about his gratitude, she lets him know that she would have done the same for any wounded man. Wakefield and Mrs. Stowe feel an immediate attraction to one another, but Isabella doesn’t want a relationship founded on gratitude and social inequity. Can Guy convince her of his love?
I really loved this story. I loved the unique plotline and both characters. I wouldn’t mind reading more about these two!
Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe
Mary Bassington, Lady Derrington, was once a young woman in love with a man named Dominick. Unfortunately Dominick rejected her and moved on to live the life of a rack. Mary married Lord Derrington and lived a passionless life that was brightened by the birth of a young son. After the death of first her husband, and then her son, Mary is trying to move on and spend a good Christmas with her young sister Ginny. When Ginny elopes with Dominick’s cousin, Mary enlists Dominick’s help to find the couple. Mary and Dominick discover they still have feelings for each other and that things may not have been what they seemed in their younger days.
Once again, I loved this story for the unique plot lines and great characters. Mary and Dominick were both fantastic. And who doesn’t love a story about second chances at love?
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer
Lord Gideon Grayson decides to visit the estate left to him upon his brother’s death . . . two and a half years later. His young ward, Amelia Ashford, has been living alone at this estate during this time with only her companion and servants. Grayson discovers that Amelia is not the young girl he thought she was and is instead a very attractive young woman that he finds hard to resist.
While this story was good, it wasn’t as great as the other two stories.
Overall, Regency Christmas Proposals is a great ensemble of Christmas stories.
Regency Christmas Proposals contains three great regency Christmas romance novellas for an overall highly enjoyable experience. I will discuss each novella separately.
The Soldier’s Christmas Miracle by Gayle Wilson
Guy Wakefield was seriously wounded while fighting Napoleon on the continent. He was nursed and inspired by a mystery woman whose words of encouragement helped him to carry on and recover. Guy spends the next five years searching for this mysterious woman. Isabella Stowe is this woman. Mrs. Stowe is the widow of her great love, William, and is having a rough time financially. She is not sure why someone of Wakefield’s social status would visit her, and when she finds out about his gratitude, she lets him know that she would have done the same for any wounded man. Wakefield and Mrs. Stowe feel an immediate attraction to one another, but Isabella doesn’t want a relationship founded on gratitude and social inequity. Can Guy convince her of his love?
I really loved this story. I loved the unique plotline and both characters. I wouldn’t mind reading more about these two!
Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe
Mary Bassington, Lady Derrington, was once a young woman in love with a man named Dominick. Unfortunately Dominick rejected her and moved on to live the life of a rack. Mary married Lord Derrington and lived a passionless life that was brightened by the birth of a young son. After the death of first her husband, and then her son, Mary is trying to move on and spend a good Christmas with her young sister Ginny. When Ginny elopes with Dominick’s cousin, Mary enlists Dominick’s help to find the couple. Mary and Dominick discover they still have feelings for each other and that things may not have been what they seemed in their younger days.
Once again, I loved this story for the unique plot lines and great characters. Mary and Dominick were both fantastic. And who doesn’t love a story about second chances at love?
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer
Lord Gideon Grayson decides to visit the estate left to him upon his brother’s death . . . two and a half years later. His young ward, Amelia Ashford, has been living alone at this estate during this time with only her companion and servants. Grayson discovers that Amelia is not the young girl he thought she was and is instead a very attractive young woman that he finds hard to resist.
While this story was good, it wasn’t as great as the other two stories.
Overall, Regency Christmas Proposals is a great ensemble of Christmas stories.
July 10, 2011
Anthology of three Christmas stories. I'll review each separately.
The Soldier's Christmas Miracle by Gayle Wilson
A soldier she nursed years before comes to thank Isabella but ends up proposing marriage which she, feeling he doesn't need poor, lower class her since he is a Lord.
Later she runs to him on hearing his blindness has returned, leaving him to think her emotions are only pity and not real love, though she doesn't give up and finally convinces him.
I liked that she was older, making age another concern, and I thought the story was, over all, well done. Bella's holding out against Guy seemed forced after a while, though - to the point where it definetely seemed she had a "need to be needed" thing going. That would have read better if it had toned down in the later part of the story. Also, she accused him of deceiving her during their confrontation at his home and it bothered me that she never really apologized for that - made her seem rather small if she couldn't even do that.
Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe
Mary is a widow who's child has died when she meets up again with the only man she's ever loved, who jilted her when they were young and left her to run off and elope with another. Except, that's not really what happened...
Another sweet story with likeable characters. I did like Mary, and her tendency to be responsible made sense, but Dominick's selfless reasons for leaving her, just because of what her father said, read quite lame to me. It's a nice idea to think he'd just step aside out of love, but it also seemed as if he gave up way too easily. Also, the seduction seemed a little too easy. Wouldn't she worry about pregnancy? Especially since she's had a child before? But my biggest problem was Mary's dead son, William. Why was he included? He's conveniently and neatly killed off, and Mary seems to recover very quickly. Too quickly. As a mother myself, I'd think Christmas would be devastating if I'd lost one of my boys. Especially if she'd tried to make the holiday such a special time for him. This made Mary seem callous.
All that aside, it was good premise.
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer
Gideon has inherited a ward and a property he's neglected to visit for two years. Upon his final arrival, he meets his now grown ward, Amelia who shoots him, suspecting he's an intruder. Attracted to her, he takes her with him to Mulberry Hall where he plans to spend the holidays and romance ensues. I actually liked this story the least. The premise - that he would be a good man yet neglect his property and his ward like that, didn't make sense, and I couldn't attach to the characters. Also, there was too much literary convenience.
Overall, a cute read but nothing anything that stays with you.
The Soldier's Christmas Miracle by Gayle Wilson
A soldier she nursed years before comes to thank Isabella but ends up proposing marriage which she, feeling he doesn't need poor, lower class her since he is a Lord.
Later she runs to him on hearing his blindness has returned, leaving him to think her emotions are only pity and not real love, though she doesn't give up and finally convinces him.
I liked that she was older, making age another concern, and I thought the story was, over all, well done. Bella's holding out against Guy seemed forced after a while, though - to the point where it definetely seemed she had a "need to be needed" thing going. That would have read better if it had toned down in the later part of the story. Also, she accused him of deceiving her during their confrontation at his home and it bothered me that she never really apologized for that - made her seem rather small if she couldn't even do that.
Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe
Mary is a widow who's child has died when she meets up again with the only man she's ever loved, who jilted her when they were young and left her to run off and elope with another. Except, that's not really what happened...
Another sweet story with likeable characters. I did like Mary, and her tendency to be responsible made sense, but Dominick's selfless reasons for leaving her, just because of what her father said, read quite lame to me. It's a nice idea to think he'd just step aside out of love, but it also seemed as if he gave up way too easily. Also, the seduction seemed a little too easy. Wouldn't she worry about pregnancy? Especially since she's had a child before? But my biggest problem was Mary's dead son, William. Why was he included? He's conveniently and neatly killed off, and Mary seems to recover very quickly. Too quickly. As a mother myself, I'd think Christmas would be devastating if I'd lost one of my boys. Especially if she'd tried to make the holiday such a special time for him. This made Mary seem callous.
All that aside, it was good premise.
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer
Gideon has inherited a ward and a property he's neglected to visit for two years. Upon his final arrival, he meets his now grown ward, Amelia who shoots him, suspecting he's an intruder. Attracted to her, he takes her with him to Mulberry Hall where he plans to spend the holidays and romance ensues. I actually liked this story the least. The premise - that he would be a good man yet neglect his property and his ward like that, didn't make sense, and I couldn't attach to the characters. Also, there was too much literary convenience.
Overall, a cute read but nothing anything that stays with you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2019
Miracolo di Natale di Gayle Wilson
Questa prima storia non mi ha convinto. Guy ha riportato gravi ferite agli occhi durante la guerra, rischiando la cecità. Isabella si è occupata di lui, come di tanti altri soldati al seguito del marito, dandogli senza saperlo la speranza con una sola frase. Capisco la gratitudine, ma non il repentino e irrealistico innamoramento di Guy per una donna di cui non conosce neanche il nome XD Isabella è molto orgogliosa e comprensibilmente diffidente, anche se alla fine la sua eterna indecisione mi ha annoiato alquanto XD La differenza di classe tanto grande tra i due viene nominata e accantonata in modo fin troppo semplice. Troppo superficiale, probabilmente a causa della brevità! ^^''
Una seconda possibilità di Amanda McCabe
Questa seconda storia è stata invece una bella lettura! L'amore giovanile tra Dominick e Mary è stato bruscamente troncato dalla famiglia di lei; anni dopo Dominick è diventato un Pari ma ha anche acquisito la reputazione di libertino dissoluto, mentre Mary dopo aver fatto il suo dovere nei confronti della famiglia sposando un uomo ricco e titolato (sebbene anziano) è rimasta vedova e ha anche perso il suo unico figlio. Grazie all'amore proibito tra la sorellina di lei e il cugino di lui finalmente i due antichi innamorati avranno la possibilità di avere una seconda occasione superando i rimpianti nella passione <3
Natale a Mulberry Hall di Carole Mortimer
In questa terza storia finalmente non solo incontriamo una protagonista che non è vedova ma che ha anche un bel carattere, sa quello che vuole ed è capace di tenere testa al suo lui!Nonostante il primo incontro tra Amelia e Gideon sia all'insegna di un malinteso (e di un colpo di pistola! XD) la scintilla tra i due è immediata e rende stretto il forzato rapporto tra pupilla e tutore che hanno loro malgrado ;) Interessante la famiglia St Clair sarei curiosa di leggere le loro storie =D
Questa prima storia non mi ha convinto. Guy ha riportato gravi ferite agli occhi durante la guerra, rischiando la cecità. Isabella si è occupata di lui, come di tanti altri soldati al seguito del marito, dandogli senza saperlo la speranza con una sola frase. Capisco la gratitudine, ma non il repentino e irrealistico innamoramento di Guy per una donna di cui non conosce neanche il nome XD Isabella è molto orgogliosa e comprensibilmente diffidente, anche se alla fine la sua eterna indecisione mi ha annoiato alquanto XD La differenza di classe tanto grande tra i due viene nominata e accantonata in modo fin troppo semplice. Troppo superficiale, probabilmente a causa della brevità! ^^''
Una seconda possibilità di Amanda McCabe
Questa seconda storia è stata invece una bella lettura! L'amore giovanile tra Dominick e Mary è stato bruscamente troncato dalla famiglia di lei; anni dopo Dominick è diventato un Pari ma ha anche acquisito la reputazione di libertino dissoluto, mentre Mary dopo aver fatto il suo dovere nei confronti della famiglia sposando un uomo ricco e titolato (sebbene anziano) è rimasta vedova e ha anche perso il suo unico figlio. Grazie all'amore proibito tra la sorellina di lei e il cugino di lui finalmente i due antichi innamorati avranno la possibilità di avere una seconda occasione superando i rimpianti nella passione <3
Natale a Mulberry Hall di Carole Mortimer
In questa terza storia finalmente non solo incontriamo una protagonista che non è vedova ma che ha anche un bel carattere, sa quello che vuole ed è capace di tenere testa al suo lui!Nonostante il primo incontro tra Amelia e Gideon sia all'insegna di un malinteso (e di un colpo di pistola! XD) la scintilla tra i due è immediata e rende stretto il forzato rapporto tra pupilla e tutore che hanno loro malgrado ;) Interessante la famiglia St Clair sarei curiosa di leggere le loro storie =D
December 5, 2015
Three stories in one book:
"The Soldier's Christmas Miracle"--1 star--This story isn't the least bit romantic or even sexy. It lacks passion and even borders on creepy. Veteran soldier Guy has his mind set on a woman who sat at his hospital bed during time of war. Five to six years later he tracks her down and basically stalks her. His gestures are romantic, but she's not the least bit flattered. In fact, she's angry and annoyed. It would have been nice if the author gave any indication that Isabella is the least bit attracted or charmed by this man, but it's mostly written from his point of view, even in third person. There's absolutely no sex and very, very little kissing. I'm not even sure why these two are even a potential couple. He claims that he has feelings for her beyond that of gratitude, but it seems to me that he only wants her as a "prize" for his constant chasing after her.
"Snowbound and Seduced"--3 1/2 stars--This story has many elements I like in a romance, but it's missing some of the deeper emotional components that makes your heart drop to your stomach when reading a really good novel. It also lacks originality by stealing scenes from similar stories and making it completely predictable. How many more stories of sibling elopement to Scotland or "rolling in the hay" in a deserted barn must we read?
"Christmas at Mulberry Hall"--4 stars-- I liked this story the best out of the three, although it was a little short for relationship development. It had the most emotion, in my opinion, out of the three. But it lacked the sexual intimacy component. (At almost 50-years-old I get a little tired of the "virginal" themes). Amelia has been holed up, practically by herself except for a couple servants, for 2 1/2 years until her absentee landlord and guardian finally decides to make an appearance. In the beginning, she shoots him in the arm because she doesn't even know who he is.
"The Soldier's Christmas Miracle"--1 star--This story isn't the least bit romantic or even sexy. It lacks passion and even borders on creepy. Veteran soldier Guy has his mind set on a woman who sat at his hospital bed during time of war. Five to six years later he tracks her down and basically stalks her. His gestures are romantic, but she's not the least bit flattered. In fact, she's angry and annoyed. It would have been nice if the author gave any indication that Isabella is the least bit attracted or charmed by this man, but it's mostly written from his point of view, even in third person. There's absolutely no sex and very, very little kissing. I'm not even sure why these two are even a potential couple. He claims that he has feelings for her beyond that of gratitude, but it seems to me that he only wants her as a "prize" for his constant chasing after her.
"Snowbound and Seduced"--3 1/2 stars--This story has many elements I like in a romance, but it's missing some of the deeper emotional components that makes your heart drop to your stomach when reading a really good novel. It also lacks originality by stealing scenes from similar stories and making it completely predictable. How many more stories of sibling elopement to Scotland or "rolling in the hay" in a deserted barn must we read?
"Christmas at Mulberry Hall"--4 stars-- I liked this story the best out of the three, although it was a little short for relationship development. It had the most emotion, in my opinion, out of the three. But it lacked the sexual intimacy component. (At almost 50-years-old I get a little tired of the "virginal" themes). Amelia has been holed up, practically by herself except for a couple servants, for 2 1/2 years until her absentee landlord and guardian finally decides to make an appearance. In the beginning, she shoots him in the arm because she doesn't even know who he is.
Read
December 1, 2010Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe connected to The Diamonds of Welbourne Manor
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer connected to The Notorious St. Claires quartet
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I found this a perfect read and loved visiting old friends and places.
Kim S.
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer connected to The Notorious St. Claires quartet
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.I found this a perfect read and loved visiting old friends and places.
Kim S.
August 9, 2013
Terminato di leggere questo libro, mi sono subito domandata perché l'ho letto ora? Si può decidere di leggere un libro che parla del Natale, della neve, degli addobbi, di case circondate da prati innevati, di ghirlande ecc. ecc., nel mese di agosto? Quando il sole ti scalda la pelle, e se ci rimani anche troppo ti brucia, quando l'aria è appiccicosa e cerchi refrigerio davanti a un ventilatore che non fa altro che gettarti in faccia solo aria calda? Ebbene sì, io l'ho fatto e sinceramente sto cominciando a contare i mesi, i giorni, le ore, voglio il Natale quanto prima. E ora dopo questo sfogo giungo a commentare questo bel libro, un romanzo incantevole, tre storie scritte da tre scrittrici differenti e si vede, perché tutte sono diverse per il modo di scrivere, per i sentimenti, per la sensualità a volte espressa a volte no. Questo libro l'ho ricevuto per puro caso in uno scambio effettuato tempo fa, non avevo letto nulla di queste scrittrici e quindi sono rimasta affascinata, sinceramente tra tutte quella che ho preferito è la Mortimer, ironica, sensuale, "erotica" nel senso molto largo della parola. Tre brevi letture, molto intense che crescono storia dopo storia.
Un libro adatto per chi ama le trame natalizie.
http://labibliotecadellibraio.blogspo...
Un libro adatto per chi ama le trame natalizie.
http://labibliotecadellibraio.blogspo...
Read
December 23, 2014Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe connected to The Diamonds of Welbourne Manor
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer connected to The Notorious St. Claires quartet
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Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer connected to The Notorious St. Claires quartet
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June 6, 2011
Gayle Wilson’s The Soldier’s Christmas Miracle was a cute little story about miracles and lost hope found again, but I couldn’t get past the heroine. She had no idea what she wanted and she got angry when someone tried to show her what it was that she might want and what might be good for her.
I felt sorry for the poor guy, named Guy, that fell for such an annoying creature.
Amanda McCabe’s Snowbound and Seduced was much “mellower” than its predecessor with two star-crossed lovers meeting again after many years only to discover that love is still binding them.
It was “mellower” because it didn’t have any annoying characters, though that somehow made it all rather bland, but still it was a cute, sweet little Christmas story.
Carole Mortimer’s Christmas at Mulberry Hall was a little less “mellower” than the previous one, though I can safely say it was the best of the bunch. A ward/guardian story that could’ve been a bit weird, but was done masterfully thanks to the plot device of ward being old enough to be safely in love with her guardian and them having just recently met.
It was the hero that was a bit wary this time, but given his (past) profession it was to be expected.
Cute, sweet, and Christmasy.
I felt sorry for the poor guy, named Guy, that fell for such an annoying creature.
Amanda McCabe’s Snowbound and Seduced was much “mellower” than its predecessor with two star-crossed lovers meeting again after many years only to discover that love is still binding them.
It was “mellower” because it didn’t have any annoying characters, though that somehow made it all rather bland, but still it was a cute, sweet little Christmas story.
Carole Mortimer’s Christmas at Mulberry Hall was a little less “mellower” than the previous one, though I can safely say it was the best of the bunch. A ward/guardian story that could’ve been a bit weird, but was done masterfully thanks to the plot device of ward being old enough to be safely in love with her guardian and them having just recently met.
It was the hero that was a bit wary this time, but given his (past) profession it was to be expected.
Cute, sweet, and Christmasy.
October 18, 2011
This is an anthology which includes:
"The Soldier's Christmas" by Gayle Wilson
"Snowbound and Seduced" by Amanda McCabe
"Christmas at Mulberry Hall" by Carole Mortimer
I really liked the first story, because I have a hero in my contemporary who was injured in service and is younger than my heroine. I also have a heroine who is blinded in service in a later book and I like to see how other authors handle that circumstance.
The second story, on the other hand, I had to look back at to remember which one it was. Never a good sign, but I remember it was pretty good. I especially liked the ending--no spoilers here, but big surprise, it's happy.
The third story, not so much. I have always been a huge fan of Mortimer's Signet Regencies, but this one fell a little short in the heroine department. She's a bit whiney and I've become less tolerant of excusing that because of youth in my dotage.
Don't get me wrong, I'll still keep it in my "keeper" boxes and you might love them all, but reader beware. It's not one I have to find another copy to force everyone to read.
"The Soldier's Christmas" by Gayle Wilson
"Snowbound and Seduced" by Amanda McCabe
"Christmas at Mulberry Hall" by Carole Mortimer
I really liked the first story, because I have a hero in my contemporary who was injured in service and is younger than my heroine. I also have a heroine who is blinded in service in a later book and I like to see how other authors handle that circumstance.
The second story, on the other hand, I had to look back at to remember which one it was. Never a good sign, but I remember it was pretty good. I especially liked the ending--no spoilers here, but big surprise, it's happy.
The third story, not so much. I have always been a huge fan of Mortimer's Signet Regencies, but this one fell a little short in the heroine department. She's a bit whiney and I've become less tolerant of excusing that because of youth in my dotage.
Don't get me wrong, I'll still keep it in my "keeper" boxes and you might love them all, but reader beware. It's not one I have to find another copy to force everyone to read.
February 9, 2014
The Soldier's Christmas Miracle by Gayle Wilson
Wounded soldier Guy Wakefield has finally found the woman who saved his life. Isabella Stowe accepts his gratitude, but it will take more than a kiss under the mistletoe to convince this world-weary widow to accept his proposal….
Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe
Mary Bassington, Lady Derrington, longs to be the carefree woman she once was. But she gets more than she bargained for this Christmas when she's snowbound with old flame Dominick, Viscount Amesby, who reignites her passion for life—and love!
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer
Spending Christmas alone with his unconventional ward pushes the boundaries of propriety—and self-control—too far for Lord Gideon Grayson. So he takes delectably pure Amelia Ashford to Mulberry Hall—but that pesky mistletoe is still all around….
All three were satisfying reads, ones I would recommend to others who enjoy the Regency era romance.
Wounded soldier Guy Wakefield has finally found the woman who saved his life. Isabella Stowe accepts his gratitude, but it will take more than a kiss under the mistletoe to convince this world-weary widow to accept his proposal….
Snowbound and Seduced by Amanda McCabe
Mary Bassington, Lady Derrington, longs to be the carefree woman she once was. But she gets more than she bargained for this Christmas when she's snowbound with old flame Dominick, Viscount Amesby, who reignites her passion for life—and love!
Christmas at Mulberry Hall by Carole Mortimer
Spending Christmas alone with his unconventional ward pushes the boundaries of propriety—and self-control—too far for Lord Gideon Grayson. So he takes delectably pure Amelia Ashford to Mulberry Hall—but that pesky mistletoe is still all around….
All three were satisfying reads, ones I would recommend to others who enjoy the Regency era romance.
February 11, 2013
I got this book to read about Gray and check in with those St Clair's again. After reading Gideon and Amelia's story, I finally made it back to read the other two recently. I wasn't overtly impressed with Mrs Stowe's story, entirely saturated in melancholy. I thought Damien's and Mary's story was heading the same way, but it picked up half-way through to become an entirely delightful story, with the characters having experienced their heartache already and ready to move on! It was great to see where the St Clair's where, but the story about the main two characters was okay, I had high expectations and they weren't met, but the story was good
December 1, 2012
I love Christmas, books and happy endings all of which are delivered in the three stories written in this collection. They are light and fluffy, full of handsome men and willful women. My only really complaint is that Christmas is more the back drop of the books than an actual part of the story. Any of these three stories could have been told at any time of year. I like my Christmas books to have a bit more to do with the season. But even so I will happily read this set again next Holiday season.
December 1, 2010
I thought when I first started reading this story/ A SOLDIER'S CHRISTMAS MIRACLE ...hmmmm good story line. Well.....it fell flat. The characters were like cardboard. The heroine drove me nuts...with her constant refusal and "we will not suit." UGH! I am grateful that this story is one of three stories in an anthology, therefore it was short.
I chose to read this book because I needed a W author name for a reading challenge (a-z author challenge on amazon). Well I read it...
I chose to read this book because I needed a W author name for a reading challenge (a-z author challenge on amazon). Well I read it...
December 15, 2012
Snowbound and Seduced - I brought this books so I could read this one story as Mary was the only interesting bit about the whole of Charlottes story. Unfortunatly this story was worse than Charlottes. It seemed like everything was just thrown together at the last minute and so the story felt really disjointed. I am hoping the other 2 storys in this book are more worth the time I used to read this one.
Christmas at Mulberry Hall - Not Read
The soldiers christmas miracle - Not Read
Christmas at Mulberry Hall - Not Read
The soldiers christmas miracle - Not Read
October 21, 2013
The pacing in these stories was actually pretty awesome. That's the one problem I usually have with romantic novellas/short stories. Though I have to say that the last story had me saying (out loud) to myself "Well...that escalated quickly." which of course induced giggles galore. Quick reads, well-written, good pacing (even in the one that escalated quickly), nice characterization. Overall would recommend.
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