'Twas the Night after Christmas

Hellions of Halstead Hall #6

by Sabrina Jeffries

Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, has been estranged from his mother for most of his life. When his mother’s new companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart, writes to tell him that his mother is seriously ill, he goes home. But when he learns that the lovely widow tricked him in order to effect a holiday reconciliation, he refuses to stay—unless she meets his “terms.” Somewhere between trying to seduce the beautiful Camilla and struggling with the cruel memories of his childhood Christmases, Pierce discovers that not only does forgiveness go two ways, but that love can blossom even in the coldest of winters.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Christmas, Regency, Holiday, Historical Fiction

368 pages, Hardcover

First published October 30, 2012

About the author

Sabrina Jeffries is the NYT bestselling author of over 50 novels and works of short fiction (some written under the pseudonyms Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas). Whatever time not spent writing in a coffee-fueled haze of dreams and madness is spent traveling with her husband and adult autistic son or indulging in one of her passions—jigsaw puzzles, chocolate, and music. With over 11 million books published in print and electronically in 25 different languages, the North Carolina author never regrets tossing aside a budding career in academics for the sheer joy of writing fun fiction, and hopes that one day a book of hers will end up saving the world.

She always dreams big.

Reviews

[Merve •Kitaptelvesi• · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰

Kitabın elimde sürünmesinin tek bir nedeni var o da çok kötü bir dönemime denk gelmiş olması. 🥺 Aşırı güzeldi yani ekstra bir kitap olmasına rağmen sanki yeni bir seri başlangıç kitabı okuyor gibi hissettim. 🤭🙌🏻Ah Pierre! 🥺♥️ Şu kitapta en sevdiğim yan karakterlerden oldu. 💁🏼‍♀️ Zaten seri içindeki bazı ana karakterleri bu kitapta tekrar görmüş olduk ona ayrı sevindim. Böyle bir gizem havası vardı bağlanan yer çok da aman aman mantıklı çıkmadı ama yine de iyiydi. Ay ne diyim yani çok güzeldi işte okuyun!😂💖

[Daniella · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF@25%. I can't read a book when I don't even have a modicum of respect for any of the characters. In the case of 'Twas the Night after Christmas, I found everyone—except Pierce, the hero, since I think his actions were justified—to be unredeemable.

First, there's Pierce's mother. I could not, for the life of me, understand how the hell she managed to ignore her son for so many years. I don't think any reason is enough to justify that cruelty. Granted, she may have been coerced or blackmailed or whatnot. But I think she should have communicated that to her son, at least. Ugh.

Second, there's Camilla. I absolutely hate it when people meddle with other people's business. To me, Camilla had NO RIGHT manipulating Pierce like that, especially when she had no fucking idea about his reasons for acting the way he did. That's his life. Respect his autonomy, please. Ugh.

Don't go all 1984 on Pierce, Camilla. Don't pretend to know what's best for him. No one's telling you how to live your life, so what gave you the right to do that shit to other people?


P.S. My friend told me the mother's real reason. And it involved cheating, which is my number 1 pet peeve of all time. I have 0% tolerance for cheating in any form, under any circumstances. I'm glad I DNF-ed this when I did.

[Missy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The conflict (hero’s mother had a secret that she refused to disclose) between the hero and his mother dragged on for waaay too long. If I had read the ebook (instead of listening to the audiobook), I would’ve start skimming or even jumped to the end to learn her secret.

[Letitia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: A ... Heat: Warm

This book… I don’t know what I was expecting, but it definitely wasn’t this! I mean, I started tearing up while reading the prologue. Yeah. The prologue. And I don’t think my eyes were ever completely dry again. From those very first few pages, Pierce had me. Unequivocally. His pain was my pain. He got his tiny little eight year old fingers latched around my heart and never let go.

Because, at a very young age, Pierce Waverly learned a hard lesson: Life isn’t fair. Abandoned by his parents, sent to live with distant relations, Pierce grows up to feel unwanted. Confused and hurt, he’s spent his childhood and adulthood lashing out. Drinking, gambling, mistresses upon mistresses—Pierce wants his parents to know he just doesn’t give a damn. About them or anything.

Or so he wishes. Because when his mother’s companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart, sends an express to tell him his mother is seriously ill—he can’t help but go to her immediately. (Which speaks volumes in itself.) When he finds out that his mother might not be as ill as alluded to, or, really, ill at all... He’s not as angry as you might expect. More than anything, he’s intrigued by the capricious Mrs. Stuart.

Camilla is the epitome of a caring and devoted woman. Having spent nearly six months with Pierce’s mother, Lady Devonmont, hearing her tell stories about Pierce as a boy, she can’t help but become enraged on her behalf. What kind of son ignores his mother? Refuses to answer her letters or visit? As an orphan, Camilla doesn’t—can’t—understand. And when you combine that with a brash and straight-forward personality, well, you get Camilla. She must mend their fences, try to help solve their problems. And she’s not afraid to go toe-to-toe with Pierce, stand up for what’s right, even if it’s not easy.

Which causes more than a few problems for her. As she entangles herself in their mother-son drama, she becomes irreversibly entangled in their lives. Together, Pierce and Camilla were... beautiful. Passionate. Heart warming. Though they’re initially at odds, they quickly see similar hurts and scars in each other. Trust blossoms, followed by friendship. And, throughout it all, is that simmering attraction. It made the pages sizzle and my heart squeeze.

I absolutely adored every character in this book, especially Camilla’s son Jasper. I love that he was important to the story and important to Camilla. The moments between Pierce and Jasper were some of my favorites because, while Pierce might not believe in the word ‘love’, Camilla and Jasper consistently show him what it really is.

‘Twas the Night After Christmas is about second chances and forgiveness and letting go of the past. It reminds you what Christmas and family and love are all about. A perfect story for the holidays. This book is going on my favorites list—it really touched me deeply. Pierce had my heart from page one and by book end, all of the characters had it. Even Pierce’s mother.

 

Favorite Quote:

She stared him down, daring him to do his worst.
Then he kissed her. Hard. Fiercely. On the lips.
It startled her so much that she jerked back to gape at him. “What in creation was that for?”
”To shut you up,” he said, eyes ablaze. Then his gaze dropped to her mouth, and the blaze became smoldering coals. He removed her spectacles and tossed them onto the nearby bed. “But this one, my dear, is for me.”

 

-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review.

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[Minna · Rating 1 out of 5]

Apparently, this book brought out the Humbug in me.
I felt for the boy Pierce, at the beginning, but unfortunately this promising beginning was the last point in which I felt fully sympathetic.

Despite her later apologies, Pierce's mom really screwed up. I don't judge her for seeking love outside of a horrible marriage, as at that time it was really one of only a very few options for women but her behavior during Pierce's visit at age 21 was absolutely reprehensible as were many of her other actions.

Pierce himself was kind of an ass. Despite his avowals that he is so much better than his awful parents, he consistently thought only of himself and his wants & needs. I never bought that he was in love with Camilla, but rather in lust. He was not in any way a sympathetic character despite the suffering his parents wrought on him.

And Camilla. BLECH. One of the most Mary Sue-y female characters I have read in a long time. The woman, despite being completely and inappropriately nosy and interfering, not to mention presumptuous (I believe both Pierce AND the Countess told her to butt out), is painted in absolutely adoring tones. She is the BEST mother, her etiquette is FLAWLESS, her employer would pay to keep her out of her OWN PIN MONEY, and she is absolutely irresistible despite being described as prim, plain, and plump. Her child is an angel, her motives are impeccable, and if the Countess and the Earl would just LISTEN to her the world would be righted. I am sorry, I just can't. This was preposterous. That woman would have been tossed out on her butt for the impertinence of writing the initial letter alone, let alone for her (many) later instances of audacity in telling others how to run their lives.

I see that a lot of other readers liked this book quite a bit. I did not. I love a Christmasy story but this was not the one for me.

[Hannah B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED

[Jess the Romanceaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.

Expected Release Date: October 30, 2012
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Imprint: Gallery Books
Author’s Website:
My Source for This Book: Edelweiss
Part of a Series: Yes, Book 6, Hellions of Halstead Hall
Series Best Read In Order: Works Well As a Standalone
Steam Level: Steamy
Favorite Tropes: Neglectful Parents, Closed off From Love, Unhappy First Marriage
Pet Peeves: Wanna Be My Mistress?, Stretching Out The Mystery

This book was so typical of Sabrina Jeffries — that is, full of powerful emotion, intriguing mystery, and delicious chemistry. I’m a sucker for protagonists who had neglectful parents, and I loved that we got to relive the heartache of Pierce’s childhood as the story progressed. That said however, while the mystery as to what exactly caused his mother’s behavior was interesting, I admit there were times when I just wanted to shake them all and yell “Out with it already!”

Outside of Pierce’s relationship with his mother, I really enjoyed watching him grow closer to Camilla and even her son, Jasper. I’m not usually a fan of children in romance, but it’s easy to see that he was an absolutely essential character in this tale. I loved that Camilla was so stubborn in her defense of a woman who had been nothing but kind, and I loved watching her and Pierce both become a bit more open minded as the story progressed. I loved watching Camilla force Pierce to realize that happiness was within his reach, but only if he let go of his bitterness and anger towards his parents first.

As a side note, newcomers to the series will be happy to know that this book stood quite well on its own, with its connection to the Hellions of Halstead Hall consisting mainly of casual references and cameos, and both new and old fans alike will be pleased with the depth of emotion as well as the delicious chemistry Ms. Jeffries always crafts into her stories.

Recommended for tortured heroes, stubborn heroines, and family intrigue, all with a healthy sprinkling of chemistry and holiday cheer.

A resounding 4.5/5 Stars

[SOS Aloha · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's nothing sadder in this world than to awake Christmas morning and not be a child. - Erma Bombeck

Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, visited two of Sabrina Jeffries’ HELLIONS OF HALSTEAD HALL series. Now readers have the opportunity to witness him shed the “rogue” mask and dig deeper into his psyche. Oh, Freud would have a field day with Pierce! His parents shipped him off to boarding school at age 8 and banned him from returning home. Even when he achieved his majority, his mother shunned him. In response, Pierce set London’s tongues a wagging with his scandalous behavior. As his friends found happiness in marriages, he grew bored with life in the fast lane. Perhaps his boredom, even restlessness, set the stage for him to return home after receiving an urgent letter from his mother’s companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart. As soon as Pierce entered the Dowager House, Fate intervened, shoved its foot in the door to Pierce's heart, and began the seige for him to reconcile with his mother, find love with Camilla, and see life through Camilla's son, Jasper.

As Freud would predict, it was an uphill battle. And that’s where Sabrina excelled. She took us along the full gamut of emotions as Pierce relived what happened in his youth while trying to seduce Camilla. In between Pierce’s sarcasm and Camilla’s retorts, she taught him that forgiveness is the greatest gift of all. The “sleeper” character is Jasper – he shined in almost every scene with his innocent enthusiasm. Jasper was a gift from Camilla’s loveless marriage; he gave hope to the Dowager Countess; and he reminded Pierce that “family” comes from within.

I could not put this book down! Sabrina delivered a heartfelt story that would stand alone without the Christmas cheer. Add the holiday references and I was envisioning myself in Hertfordshire, attending the Christmas Fair, and listening to Jasper’s fascination with the American poem, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Just as St. Nicholas arrived with a clatter, so did Pierce with his pride, his pain, and his passion. His makeshift "family" transformed him from the Grinch to St. Nick, His eyes-how they twinkled! His dimples how merry! They gave Pierce back his childhood ... and he was no longer sad on Christmas Day!

Must read for Regency Fans who will appreciate how Pierce rediscovers his soul.

I received a print copy of ‘TWAS THE NIGHT AFTER CHRISTMAS from Gallery Books for this review.

[Linda (NOT RECEIVING NOTIFICATIONS) · Rating 3 out of 5]

'TWAS THE NIGHT AFTER CHRISTMAS exemplified the emotionally tortured hero. Physically abandoned at the age of eight, Pierce Waverly tried to understand why his parents no longer loved him. Fast forward twenty-five years later and he was now the Earl of Devonmont. His father had died two years before and his mother had been sending him weekly letters since his father's funeral. All of which had gone unread into a box. Now he was informed by his mother's companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart, that Lady Devonmont was gravely ill; he decided to visit with her one last time.

The story was tagged as part of two separate series but I had no problem with this as a read-alone. Several secondary characters found in other stories played only a minor part. The romance was inspired by the real poem 'Twas The Night Before Christmas originally published in 1823. And, though listed by others as a Regency or Victorian romance, it actually fell between both eras: 1826.

It was heart-wrenching when Pierce dwelled on his boyhood. You understood to some extent why he behaved the way he did. His self-esteem had been shattered. At the same time, I felt like I was reading a historical romance with contemporary overtones.

Camilla Stuart was written as a strong and outspoken heroine. Pierce thrived on her unusual personality. If you don't take this romance too seriously and can get past Pierce's issues, it is a pleasant diversion for a cold afternoon.

[Mei · Rating 5 out of 5]

This, even if only loosely connect with the Hellion of Halstead series, is the best one!

I loved how both hero, Pierce, and the heroine, Camilla, were very open with each other.
Of course there's angst. It's present in every book of the series, but here it was contrasted by a very level headed reasoning.
Pierce was having very real, very understandable issues with his mother and his angsst was born from them.
Camilla's actions and reasoning were also very logical and her angst was burried deep in her soul.
The best part is how they're helping each other deal with them.

I was debating with myself about reading this book and now I'm very glad I've read it! :)

[T.Y. Mazer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitabı keyifle ve merakla okudum. Pierce çok sinir bozucu bir karakterdi ama sonradan onu da sevdim. Camilla zaten çok tatlıydı. Yalnız en sonda ortaya çıkan sır çok münasebetsizceydi. Karakterlerin bunu kabullenişi de. Puanı oradan kırıyorum tek.

[Milica's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐
I liked this story unexpectedly a lot. I didn’t plan on reading it, but I’m just glad I did.
I love Christmas romance stories!! ♥

[ᑭᑌᑎƳᗩ [Punya Reviews...] · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review contains spoilers and they're are mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...

Ok, so do you people want me to grovel because I totally enjoyed Pierce’s story when I vowed to myself in my other reviews of this series that I probably wouldn’t read it? Well, I might have to, because 'Twas the Night After Christmas gets the best rating for me in this series. I simply loved it! Yes, Pierce was still the whiny rake, yes, he could be an overgrown baby (as per his own admissions, mind you!) but he... he was a lovely surprise too! And he ‘grew up’ soon enough, found love in Camilla and didn’t let go, which just got me there. I loved the story in general, which was very warm and sweet. It also had some really emotional moments that had me in tears. Keep your tissue boxes close by while reading this one.

For those who don’t know, Hellions of Hallstead Hall series is about 5 siblings, one ultimatum given by their grandmother and the ways they learn to deal with that ultimatum, while finding their true loves as they do that. Pierce, who was introduced as a secondary character in book 4, To Wed a Wild Lord, isn’t really a part of the infamous Sharpe family, who were the main protagonists of this series. Pierce was a cousin to Virginia, heroine of book 4. I wasn’t impressed with him from the start, since it takes a lot of hard work for an author now-a-days to convince me that rakes are worth anything other than risking STD. Pierce is a self proclaimed rake, who apparently loves the silly things in life, has a long established mistress, gambles his days away. He doesn’t wanna get married, ever, nor have a family. Must say I wasn’t very inspired by his character. The main reason was that HoHH series was mostly a downer for me. Even though I liked the intertwined mystery murder plot, in the two years that I’ve been following this series, I didn’t have much praise for it.

In book 4 and 5, A Lady Never Surrenders, Pierce was given the impression of a jaded rake. Both Celia and Virginia even used him to make the heroes jealous. But in truth, he really was just a confused man who needed deep emotional support. As I gradually learned of his childhood, I only felt sad for him. My tears started falling for him since the prologue. As in the other books in this series, SJ starts with a flashback of a young Pierce, an 8 yrs old boy, waiting to go home on Christmas. But this day, not his parents but one of his cousins, Titus Waverly is here. Pierce knows his father doesn’t love him that much, calling him ‘a weakling’ because he has asthma (OMG, how horrible??!) but he was certain that his loving mother will be there to get him. But she doesn’t. Pierce is confused and hurt. Then Titus (Virginia’s father), a kindly looking man, begins stammering about why his parents aren’t coming. His attempts were, of course, obvious lies and loads of excuses to assuage Pierce’s fears, but even the at that young age, he felt he’s been abandoned. And, oh my God, abandoned he was by his OWN PARENTS from then... until now. He lived with the Waverlys mostly, Titus and his wife being his surrogate parents and Virginia and Roger as his siblings. They were kind people, and took care of him mind you but the emotional hurt from his own parents took its toll. Pierce at first thought his mother would at least come for him someday. But by the time he reached his puberty, Pierce knew he’s been abandoned for good. In reply to his letters, Pierce only got silence from his parents. Oh God, how could they do this to a little boy, I couldn’t understand. It broke my heart, the whole thing seemed SO cruel and heartless to me.

When Pierce grows up, he starts his own sort of ‘rebellions’ to show his parents that he doesn’t care; namely drinking, whoring and doing anything to embarrass them. By then he hates them with all his being. At 21, Pierce decides to try again though and talk to his parents. I can feel that he needed some kind of assurance from that side, after all, they were HIS mother and father. But even though he expected the callousness from his always indifferent father, the disdain and hate in his mother’s speech brought him down low. Pierce just wanted to mend fences and returns with more bruises and hurt than he could ever imagine getting. The worse thing was he didn’t even know what he has done wrong to deserve this. No explanation, nothing.

Remember that we get to know about all these gradually in the story, mostly from Pierce’s musings. After the prologue, the story jumps to the present day, about a yr or so after book 5. Christmas is almost here and Pierce is not fond of Christmases. What he feels is this dogged restlessness and even sex doesn’t help anymore. He begins to feel that he needs something more in life, despite the fact that he has, so far, thought he can live without that ‘more’. Pierce decides it’s time to let his longtime mistress go, which he does pronto. The letters from his mother arrive at its pace, just as they have since his father’s death 2 yrs. ago. He saw his mother after a long time on his father’s funeral. They obviously didn’t talk. Pierce doesn’t read a single one of her letters. He is just returning what he got from her; total emotional detachment. Other than that, the dowager countess is well-taken care of. She can frequent at Montcliff, the country estate for the Earls of Devonmont. But Pierce has made it clear that when he’s there for estate matters, she can’t stay. She has to retire to the Dower House, an old house where Pierce grew up in. This is the place Pierce avoids at all cost for the painful memory it brings. Pierce has this idea that his mother married his father for money. A cold, calculating move. And what would she ask for if not for money and luxury, now that he’s the Earl? So, to Pierce, it’s all justified. He’s taking care of her, giving her what she needs... until when a letter from her mother’s companion arrives this day. Pierce panics; plain and simple. You see, there was this little boy who still cared about that mother who loved him at least for the first 8 years of his life. The same little boy who panics, thinking she might be gravely ill and dying, otherwise the companion known for her levelheadedness won’t send for him. The letter suggests the worse and Pierce rushes back to Montcliff that night.

Camilla knows she’d be in trouble once the Great Earl arrives and even though she’s scared, she’ll weather this with a brave façade. According to her, the guy deserves some trashing for neglecting his mother. He’s not really here at all, if ever. Camilla is a widow with a small boy, Jasper and no other relations to speak of. She’s very loyal and so, very affectionate towards the dowager countess. The countess has shown her kindness but she has won her over when she let Camilla keep Jasper with her. The other employers have never been that kind to Camilla and so, she had to keep the boy away from her, in his uncle’s house. Even though it was painful for her, Camilla had to endure this for she needed the money. When she was hired, Camilla was told that the Great Earl doesn’t like children, and so, she lied about having one. Even though the countess made it easier for her to hide Jasper away in the Dower House, now that the Earl would be arriving, she’s a bit worried about both her job and Jasper.

When Pierce arrives, Camilla panics a bit. The countess also knew nothing of this, but one look at her, and she guesses who is behind Pierce’s sudden appearance at Montcliff. Either way, the woman is so very happy to have her son in the house. Pierce rushes in, while trying to mask his anxieties. He won’t show this side of him to anyone, poor man! Once the countess faces her son, the situation becomes very clear. Camilla knows she’s so in trouble. But Pierce doesn’t overreact at first, though many times in the story you’ll find him stomping around, quarreling with his mother; both stubborn to the core, not willing to let go of the past. Pierce decides to stay the night. Camilla also decides that she needs to confront the Earl and try to make him see what he’s pushing away; the love of a mother. Being a foundling, never knowing her parents, ever, Camilla knows what it feels like to not have the affection of a loving parent.

When she takes his food to his room, they both exchange words. Pierce has already decided that the widow is charming enough to seduce and to keep her mouth shut, puts on his rakish façade. Camilla already knew about his scintillating lifestyle back in London, and so, she was expecting this. I gotta tell you that at first, these meetings of Pierce and Camilla made me roll my eyes. I would do some eye roll, then laugh and then shake my head because oddly enough, I was enjoying their banters too. Since I wasn’t still taken with Pierce, when Camilla felt the rush of desire by his nearness, I felt like shaking her; as in, WTF woman? Why him?? Camilla is happy that Pierce doesn’t fire her. Then she requests him to spend a few moments with his mother, especially to have dinner that night. Pierce, in no way, want to do that. Everything about this house chokes him. But he had a plan to be charming to Camilla, so he complies. Wearing the same mask of rakishness, he tells her that she has to do something in exchange of his time with his mother. Camilla isn’t scared by Pierce’s activities, while I was still eye rolling. Camilla tells him she can’t have that kind of relationship with him. Pierce actually knew that she won’t give in so easily but in his mind, he’s sure that he’ll convince her someway.

At night, they have dinner. Camilla tries to make small talks but it’s very apparent that mother and son are at an impasse. Then, after tucking Jasper in with his maid Maisie by his side, Camilla goes to see Pierce. He of course doesn’t force her to do anything naughty (no matter how much he wanted to), but asks her to read a... erm, naughty book. It was his kinda fun. But Camilla isn’t deterred by this and starts reading. Even Pierce got embarrassed when he found that Camilla is looking at a ...umm, naughty picture. It was such a funny scene. To Pierce, Camilla was already loyalty personified. Then he also knew she’s not that experienced (from their earlier talks). This is so very new to him, when his only experience is with jaded, cold and calculating women. Soon, one day turns to two and some more days and Pierce is still here. Camilla and the countess is successful in keeping Jasper away, but Camilla is mostly happy to see the countess happy, even though the mother and son still doesn’t have a decent chat. Pierce makes excuses to stay, which seems like a good sign to her. And he kisses her often now to shut her logical mouth; logic he can’t deny but grates on his nerves nonetheless.

Pierce, on the other hand, begins to burn for Camilla in real, an itch; he can’t scratch it, neither can he ignore it. And no other woman will do either. He is really taken with her and her logic about giving his mother a chance. He tries with his mother, but the woman won’t come up with the real reason behind his abandonment. The countess later confides in Camilla that it was because of something she did; something pretty dire and will make Pierce hate her even more. In the meantime, one day, Pierce and Camilla’s kissing and fondling go a bit too deep. Pierce is desperate to have her and inwardly, still firm in his decisions to make her his mistress. He’ll take her away from here and set her up etc. etc. He even tries to convince and then manipulate her by wheedling her about this and that to comply. On this part I got angry at Pierce and wanted to kick his rakish arse. He was such a sticky little thing when he wanted something. If he had marriage in mind, I would’ve thought it was sexy. But it wasn’t. And Camilla is all indecision. She definitely wanted him, as she’d never wanted any man but she knows she can’t do it ultimately because she has Jasper to think of. That night, while Pierce asks her to come to his room, a sleepy Jasper comes out to search for his mother......... Well, it doesn’t go bad, really. For all his overgrown-baby-persona, Pierce handles the secret baby drama quite well I must say. He even becomes incensed that Camilla thought he’d send the boy away. Then he remembers that he’d said something like that to his estate manager, Fowler; an outcome of his hatred where his family was concerned.

Anyway, that night nothing happens. Camilla keeps her campaign of making amends between the mother and the son going strong. Then Pierce keep surprising her in turn, again and again, by being nice to everyone, trying to work things with his mother. He confides in her about his life, his childhood; a big step for a private man like him. But what wins Camilla over is his attempts at making Jasper comfortable and becoming his buddy. Jasper has already taken an interest in Pierce. Camilla is a bit apprehensive too, thinking, when Pierce inevitably leaves her son will be hurt. She also knows that she has come to admire the man and she’s falling for him. As they start making preparations for Christmas, Camilla tries convincing Pierce that she should spend it with his mother. Pierce is not so sure as he generally spends it with the Waverlys.

At one point, after a nice day in a fair, Camilla decides she will give herself to Pierce. Just for one night. But the trouble was, she didn’t explain the little fact to Pierce that she isn’t becoming his mistress. As they make love, Camilla can’t hold back herself and says ILU to him. But somehow, the countess gets the wind of it and assumes that Pierce was being the usual blackguard, playing with her beloved companion. The countess was very loving to Camilla and so, she was furious at Pierce, discovering them together. Pierce is mad too, then the mother and son have a terrible fight unlike the brief ones they had so far. Camilla confesses that it wasn’t Pierce’s doing but all mutual. When the countess is rendered speechless, Pierce demands that she fess up about the past. She won’t... and then Pierce asks Camilla to leave with him this moment, along with Jasper. But she refuses. Even though I knew what Pierce’s intentions were towards Camilla (his reasoning behind it pretty immature too) and yet, it broke my heart when he is really hurt by Camilla’s refusal. The old insecurities come rushing in. No one really loves him, or cares for him. He leaves that night, with a promise to never to return again. He even feels tears forming in his eyes, and damn, but I couldn’t help my tears too. As he returns to London, with every intentions of returning to his old lifestyle, Pierce just couldn’t bring himself to do that. He keeps seeing the differences everywhere. The cold crassness lying under the veneer of so-called sophistication just can’t compare with a warm, loving and loyal woman; Camilla. His cold townhouse isn’t a home to him and he realizes with a pang that it never was. He has always been alone, no matter his history as a rake.

At Montcliff, even though Camilla can’t concentrate on anything anymore, she still convinces countess to fess up to Pierce. Instead, the woman talks to Camilla about a convoluted story of a doomed love, a loveless, arranged marriage that went neither here, nor there. Pierce’s father was a possessive man and he couldn’t forgive his wife’s one little indiscretion with the man she loved but couldn’t have. He was also convinced at one point that Pierce wasn’t his son and so came the banishment. The countess was forced to cut all ties Pierce. Now, I didn’t know what to think about this part. Yes, it was sad but did a little boy deserved all these? What about the Earl? He was made to look like the villain in all these but when I try to look from his POV, I don’t find him that big of a villain. He wasn’t a nice man of course but it was very apparent that he wanted his wife to love him, which she never did. It was such a messed up situation, with Pierce paying the ultimate price. SJ sure did a splendid job of making me guess about what could’ve taken place all through the book. But even after all the explanations, it still felt horribly wrong to me when I thought of that young boy who was disillusioned and heartbroken.

After a few days in London, Pierce decides that there’s no point in wasting time. He really wants to know what happened and still want to mend fences with his mother. He is practically yearning for it. One day, he stops by at Jackson Pinter’s (hero of book 5) place. Jackson used to be a detective once and Pierce states his case to him. Jackson tells him that he’s busy but he recommends a new guy. This new guy, who is also the younger brother of a man bullied Pierce when he was a kid, Dominic Manton proves to be very useful. I’m quite sure Dominic’s getting his own book BTW. Before long, he digs up some stuff about Pierce’s parents and the man with whom his mother had the affair. Pierce is pretty sure that he’s illegitimate after Manton’s reveals but he doesn’t care anymore. He’ll go Home and talk to his mother. He’ll also propose to Camilla because by now, he has come to realize exactly why she refused to become his mistress, that that kinda life is no life for a woman like her, and for a child. But as Pierce finally comes Home, some surprises are waiting for him, and one of them concerns Camilla...

The ending was beautiful, so was the epilogue. You have no idea how happy I felt for all of them. All those tissues and wet pillows were worth it (yes, I cried that much in spite of myself). Even though this is the last book of HoHH series, I’m so glad we’ll be seeing books of some characters introduced in this series. The next series is titled Duke’s Men and the first book is One More Kiss. It’s the story of the Duke of Lyons, who was introduced in book 5. I was very intrigued about him and so, will be impatiently waiting for that one. Meanwhile, 'Twas the Night After Christmas gets 4.5 happy, sighing stars from me.


This ARC was provided to me by Gallery Books/Simon and Schuster via edelweiss which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.

[Lori ◡̈ · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was not my cup of tea, at all. The neglect that the hero went thru during his childhood was extremely heartbreaking... and that seemed to be the main focus of the first half of the book. (that's where I stopped). I felt that the drama of his animosity towards his mother and the big secret of why the mother felt the need to abandon him to relatives during his childhood over rode any romance at all. They kissed once during the first half that I read. But big deal, there were so many opportunities missed that the author could have incorporated the romance and falling in love btwn Camilla and Pierce during all this drama. Specifically, The Agreement. Pierce agreed to stay at his mothers house and not return to London IF.... Camilla agreed to entertain him in his bedroom after dinner. This was a perfect chance for the author to have them slowly fall in love and have a little sexy time. I cant spoil too much, but the first night was lame entertainment and he sneaked a little kiss. Then the rest of the week is glossed over in one paragraph not even explaining how the time was spent. Besides that let down, I felt the heroine was way too pushy and over stepping her bounds in demanding answers from the hero and his mother. They were her employers and it just seemed weird that she would have the authority to demand answers from either of them.

[Terri Wino · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story, even though I thought the secret Pierce's mother was keeping from him was a bit of a stretch to justify not being a part of his childhood. However, I guess in the time period the story takes place it really would have been quite detrimental to his future. Being that I liked the story and characters, I could overlook any doubts about the relationship between Pierce and his mother and just enjoy the story.

[Monique Takens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not give 5 stars easily but this story ... well .. to everybody who reads this review I want to say , do yourself a huge favour and read this book !

[Rosamary Rosa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sonunda serinin son kitabını da bitirmiş bulunuyorum. Serinin son kitabında dördüncü kitapta tanıştığımız Virginia'nın kuzeni Pierce Weawerly'nin hikayesi anlatıyordu.

Pierce ailevi sebepler yüzünden malikanesine uğramayan bir kontken annesinin yardımcısı kendisine acil bir not yolladığında tüm problemleri bırakıp malikaneye gidiyor. Ama ortada bir sorun olmadığını görünce evde daha fazla kalmak istemediğinden Camilla onu ikna etmek için farklı methodlar izliyor. Hikaye bu noktada biraz Binbirgece masallarını andırdı. Şehrazat'ın prensi hikayeleriyle kandırması gibi Camilla da kontumuzu kandırdı.

Pierce'ın eve gelmemesine neden olan sebepleri ve annesinin anlatmamaktaki ısrarını biraz fazla abartı buldum. Bence bu gerçeğin çok ama çok daha önce ortaya çıkması gerekirdi ama böyle bir sebebi oğluna söyleyememesi, bunu hala sır olarak saklamaya çalışmasındaki ısrarı beni sinir etti . Beraber geçirebilecekleri onlarca mutlu yılı bir çırpıda çöpe attılar. Aile içerisinde böyle büyük sırlar olması olayına zaten sinir oluyorum bunun bu kadar fazla uzaması oğlunun nasıl incindiğini göre göre bu ısrarına devam etmesi benim gözümde annemizi -kontes devenmont- suçlu yaptı. Buna jarşın Camilla sanırım tarihi aşk romanlarında okuduğum en aklı başında kadın karakterlerden biriydi. Kadının gözlük takmasından anlamalıydım 😂 Pierce'ın yaptığı o çocukca muzipliklere bile zekice ve kendinden emin bir şekilde yanıt verdi bu da kendisini çok takdir etmemi sağladı. Ama hikayeyi okurken bu bahsettiğim sır yüzünden hikayeye genel olarak kasvet hakimdi. Çok daha iyi olabilecekken -Pierce'ın potansiyelini daha önceki kitaplarda okumuş biri olarak- bunla yetinmek üzücüydü. O yüzden 3 puan veriyorum.

[Ana María · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cuenta la historia de Pierce Waverly, conde de Devonmont, ha estado más de 20 años distanciado de sus padres. Cuando cumplió 8 prácticamente fue desterrado de su hogar y criado por parientes. Esto le generó un gran resentimiento cercano al odio hacia sus progenitores y los llevó a vivir una vida de escándalo (cuándo no). Camilla Stuart, la dama de compañía de su madre ahora viuda, no puede comprender que ni siquiera venga a visitarla en Navidad. Entonces, de pura metida, le manda una carta a Pierce diciéndole que su madre está muy enferma para que venga a verla. Pero bueno, hay muchos secretos guardados que deben revelarse para sanar el espíritu de este hombre. Y, mientras tanto, Camilla despertará en él nuevos sentimientos (los del corazón y los de los bajos). No es una comedia pero me atrapó. Compré el secreto, el romance, las escenas hot. Quizá el problema lingüístico opaca la cuestión pero es de esos que no pude dejar hasta saber qué pasa. Aunque al final todo se arregla muy rápido (con la ayuda de una detective que aparece en la serie de los Hellions…). Así que casi merecería 4 estrella pero por lo del idioma y el final, lo dejamos en 3 y media.

[Insh · Rating 2 out of 5]

“Love is for children and fools.
No grown man with an ounce of sense
makes monumental decisions based on some
half-baked sentiment he read on a St. Valentine’s Day card.”

[Luana ☆ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I expected to love this one, as the hero has appeared on many occasions in the Hellions of Halstead Hall series. It was a very nice story, he's suffered a lot and this book has a wonderful way of showing how much the parents are important in a child's life. It was also nice how it was explored how much a woman was dependent on a man. We sort of follow 3 different woman stories and the consequences of their actions. But it was not a wow book, you know? By halfway through I already wanted it to finish to start something new.
So yeah, it was worth reading the "novella", just not spectacular.

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 'Twas the Night After Christmas, Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, comes to terms with demons that have plagued him since he was an 8 year old. He was sent to school after Christmas, and never was allowed to return home, instead spending his school holidays with distant relatives who became more like a true family than his mother and father ever were. The last time he spoke to his mother was at his father's funeral, and since inheriting the title and estate, he's kept away from her, on purpose. He can't forgive her, and utterly despises her for his mistreatment. The Dowager Countess, though, has always loved her son, and misses him dearly, so when her companion, the widowed Camilla Stuart, falsely tells Pierce she is deathly ill, it's a surprise when he turns up at Montcliff Estate. Pierce is enraged at the falsehoods, but agrees to stay, for a price - Camilla must entertain him, and he'll speak with his mother. The longer he stays, and spends his nights with Camilla - reading, playing cards, and simply talking - the less he wants to leave, and it may just be a Christmas miracle.

I've loved the five main books in the Hellions of Halstead Hall series, and when I saw that there was a companion/sequel about Virginia's cousin Pierce - who we saw in books 4 & 5 - I knew I needed to request a copy. This book was such a feel good story, perfect to start getting into a Christmassy mood. Camilla was one of the best heroine's I've seen in a while - widowed young, after spending her life in an orphanage, and hiding a son from most of the world - she was so strong, and was unbelievable when she stood up to Pierce. Pierce was, understandably, damaged by his abandonment, and there were a lot of evils to overcome before he could speak to his mother civilly, and start to consider forgiving her. The clash of wills, and to and fro between our couple was full of witty banter, and perfect chemistry, and I think I love them both. Adding little Jasper to the mix just made even so much better. The only negative I may have about this book was the lack of wider cast - there were very few mentions to the Sharpes and extended family, and if we had seen them, I might have exploded. An amazing, and unexpected, end to the series.

[Farrah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

Another brilliant book in the Hellions series! Twas the Night After Christmas was an emotionally charged, sweet romance that I absolutely adored.

I loved the plot of the book. It's a unique idea that I've never seen used before. And it was very well done.

I really liked Camilla. Her loyalty to Lady Waverly was admirable. But it wasn't blind loyalty. She was determined but that didn't stop her from listening to Pierce and keeping an open mind about what truly happened. She was clever, kind, strong. A heroine that anyone can like.

I adored Pierce so much. As a boy, Pierce was abandoned by both of his parents and he is understandably resentful of his mother for it. Which is the whole broken relationship that Camilla is so determined to mend. His past made Pierce a sympathetic character immediately and his actions throughout the book made him more and more endearing. He was very sweet and, mark my words, he will find a way into your heart.

The relationship between Camilla and Pierce was so realistic. Though it didn't have the most illustrious beginnings, they had an immediate connection. And that connection slowly grew into a true love. It was very sweet to read. There was very real tension between them as they struggled to find the truth of Pierce's abandonment-which wasn't as simple as it seemed. And the sexual tension between them was constant. And when that tension snapped, it was VERY hot. I really loved the two of them together.

The mystery of Pierce's abandonment was well done. The secrets kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. And, when the full truth was finally revealed, it was worth the wait to find out.

The pace of this book moved quickly and the plot kept me hooked the entire time. The ending was a sweet holiday ending that warmed my heart.

Twas the Night After Christmas is an excellent historical romance. Romance lovers, you have to read this.

*Thanks to Edelweiss for a copy!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect Christmas romance!

The Earl of Devonomnt, Pierce Waverly, at the age of 8 was suddenly abandon by his parents to a boarding school and distant relations for his care. Now a man he still holds great resentment for his lack of parents during his childhood.

When his father passes, Pierce inherits everything. He sets his mother up comfortably, she even has a lady companion (Camilla Stuart) but he still refuses to have contact with his mother.

Determined to mend the fences broken in the relationship between her Ladyship and her son, Camilla sends a letter to the Earl stating that his mother is ill and that he needs to see her before it’s too late. Not expecting the Earl to rush to his mother’s side, Lady Waverly and Camilla are both shocked when Pierce arrives.

Almost immediately taken by his mother’s witty companion, Pierce sees something in Camilla that he just can’t walk away from.

Twas the Night After Christmas truly is a wonderful holiday read. The emotional charged encounters, intriguing mystery and clever dialog immediately pulled me into this story. I especially enjoyed Camilla son, Jasper...his openness and innocents was refreshing. I found this book a heartwarming and touching Christmas tale.

This copy of Twas the Night After Chrimstas was given to me by Edelweiss and Gallery Books in exchange for an honest review. Published Date October 30, 2012.

[Anna D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Despite not really loving the H/h, I enjoyed this book tremendously. Perhaps it’s because I was in the Christmas spirit that I didn’t mind some things that I usually wouldn’t like.

Some things I didn’t love:
1) Our hero is written so sympathetically, almost to the point that he’s not accountable for anything bad because he’s had a sad childhood from his parents’ abandonment. Pierce is an adult and his refusal to grow up and live for himself instead of living to spite his family is off-putting – however, I was able to easily forgive him and his flaws.

2) Our heroine is perfect in every way! She can do nothing wrong in the eyes of everyone, yet she actually does a lot of things wrong. I do not like her very much – but her irritating actions does push the plot through because if it wasn’t for her impertinent ways, Pierce and her mother would not get their reconciliation as they would likely keep their distance for the rest of their lives.

The plot here is not original, but it was enjoyable. The secrets and grudges of the past and the secrets Camilla, the Dowager, and Pierce were keeping felt like another form of misunderstanding – I suppose that’s what they really were because had they all just sat down and talked, the basis of the plot would have crumbled. Regardless, I had a good time reading this book. What I honestly loved most about this book was Jasper! He was just so adorable!

[Utha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Empat bintang untuk Pierce dan Cammila. Tapi yah, sebenernya kurang panas kalo dibandingin sama karya Tante Jeffries yang lain... :p

[Amanda The Book Slayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Recommendation : This book is perfect for the upcoming holidays! It is filled with Christmas charm and magic. A must have for the holidays!

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“‘Twas the night after Christmas, and all through the place, the only ones stirring were the lord and his mate.”

“That is an awful rhyme.”

“Shh, I’m not done.” He rose with her in his arms, and headed for the door. “They went off to nestle all snug in their bed, while visions of lovemaking danced in their heads.”

She eyed him suspiciously. “Is this the naughty version of the Poem?”

“No.” He stared down into the face of the woman who’d become dearer to him than life. Who made his life richer and fuller, and decidedly more interesting with each passing day. “It’s the version for men who are in love with their wives.”

She smiled up at him, that same love shining in her face.

“Then carry on, sir.”

“And Mama, quite naked, and I naked, too-”

“”Pierce!” she cried, half laughing, half chiding.

“Oh, all right,” he said as he carried her up the stairs. “I suppose it is the naughty version.”

Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, is Ms. Jeffries next victim in her Hellions of Halstead Hall series. I have to admit I was excited to see another book in that series. I have loved watching all the Sharpe siblings find their match and was not ready to let them go.
As you can imagine, It was a bittersweet moment when the last Sharpe succumbed to her HEA. Of course, when I saw this book I had to read it. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

We first meet Mr. Waverly in To Wed A Wild Lord. He happens to be the cousin of Virginia We also know he wrecked havoc with poor Gabe due to his love and protective nature towards the Waverly’s.

In this book we find out why there is such a strong bond between him and his cousins. I won’t lie. A few tears were shed and I wanted to yell at a character or two.

Let me start at the beginning.

Pierce was a small sickly boy who suffered from asthma. His father thought he was worthless and would not live to take over the Earldom. His mother was a kind sweet spirit and when he was a child she would go out of her way to make him feel special, loved.

All of that ended one tragic day. Pierce, as a boy, didn’t realize that when he went back to school in his eighth year of life that he would no longer be permitted in his childhood home. His mother made arrangements for him to spend summers and holidays with his cousins, the Waverly’s.

He felt lost and hurt even with the letters his mother sent and continued to send for a time. Like all little children, he blamed himself for his parents problems. Pierce made a vow to be the best son he could. He would succeed in school and horseback riding in order to be permitted to come home.

The years came and went with fewer letters and eventually none were sent. Pierce continued to hold out hope until an incident so tragic that he could not overlook or excuse behavior. After that he did anything to wreak havoc on his father’s name. The name Pierce Waverly meant trouble would follow.

Our story begins when an unexpected letter appears from his mother’s companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart. He was informed that his mother’s health was declining and to come before it was too late. Even though Pierce could not forgive his mother of her betrayal to him, he also could not let her die before saying goodbye. So off he went to visit his mother.

Camilla Stuart, could not believe that a son could live so close and refuse to visit or answer any letters his mother had sent. As Christmas was approaching the look of sadness and weariness began to get worse. Camilla had enough. Being an orphan, she understood the need to have and hold onto the family you were blessed with, no matter what.

She devised a plan. She would send an urgent letter and he would either come or not. She assumed not and then she would tell all and the hope that the countess’ son would ever come to see her would be gone. No more wondering or waiting. Things can either be righted or put to rest.

To her dismay and fear Pierce showed up concerned for his mother and that concern had her stumbling to make everything right. However, the relationship between mother and son was worse than expected. Her plan was up the minute he took control. A new plan was laid by a compromise. He would have dinner with his mother if she entertained him after.

I know what you are thinking and Camilla put her foot down. Even though she was a widow, she refused to sleep with the head of the household, her boss. Pierce gave into her demands and the compromise stood. But the attraction that they had towards each other was more than they bargained for. Worse, Camilla had a few secrets that she should not, could not, nor would not give up.

As their little game commenced, each trying to get what they wanted, they realize that they were in too deep, too fast. Time may not heal all wounds and a mother would do anything to protect her child. But who is protecting whom and from what? I shall say no more. You must go and read it for yourself to find out how it all works out, if in fact it does.

I want to say Thank You to Simon & Schuster as well as Edelweiss for providing me with a copy of this book for an honest review. It was a joy to read especially with Christmas right around the corner.

[Lindsay pinkcowlandreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...


This book starts off heartbreaking and sad. It’s the set up for what comes later. Why the hero is as he is, the thawing that takes place from the clues and revelations that slowly bombard him as he comes to the realization that his whole life is based on a mistruth; and how the diabolical hatred of one man can have a domino effect on so many people. It’s going to take a daring woman full of innocence, hot passions and a secret of her own to accomplish the impossible. This book is the story of Pierce and how he discovers the true meaning of love. It all starts when his life gets tossed upside down by a simple letter from a very proper lady named Mrs. Camilla Stuart. What follows is a story far from proper, thoroughly entertaining and a real treat for this romance book fan.

‘Twas the Night after Christmas is a character driven novel. I like how the author set up the atmosphere amongst the main players. I enjoyed the secondary characters that revolve around the hero and heroine. Some were there to propel the plot, to interject doubts and jealousy, or provided a charming and heartwarming element that helped to reach the hero on a level even he couldn’t have predicted.

I also thought the inclusion of the poem of St. Nick was cute. It actually plays a key role in the story and the author wielded it in a delightful manner that touched the sentimental marshmallow inside me.

To say this story comes with a few surprises is an understatement. Holiday stories usually include miracles because they seem to occur and be the most poignant during this time of year. Ms. Jeffries certainly provided some astonishing wide-eyed moments and one of them gave me goose bumps- in a good way.

Speaking of which, the character of Jasper was a stroke of genius. The author used him as a catalyst for reaching those cold spots inside of Pierce and it was quite effective. I will find it hard to believe that any reader could be unmoved by the scenes in which Jasper and Pierce are together. It was a terrific emotional touch and handled superbly by Ms. Jeffries.

The dialogue was well coordinated, the saucy bits between Pierce and Camilla were so very daring and absolutely fun, and the naughty version of the poem is hysterical, well as far as Pierce was allowed to quote it. I completely enjoyed the sense of humor that was sprinkled throughout the book because it made the hero and heroine seem reachable and real. I liked getting to know them.

‘Twas the Night after Christmas is a book worth reading not only during the holiday season but any time of the year when you need a tale that has the power to lift the blues and chase away the glums. It’s a wonderful people story and it revolves around a man and woman a reader can care about by virtue of the high quality of writing that Ms. Jeffries employs to bring her characters to life. It’s a romance I highly recommend reading to not only fans of this author but anyone who enjoys a novel that embraces and explores the healing power of love and the art of a good bargain.

[Lily (Night Owl Book Cafe) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Courtesy of Galley Books (Pocket Books) through Edelweiss in exchange of an honest review.

Wow and I do mean wow. After I finished reading this book, which by the way I couldn't put down once I really got in to it, I hugged my e-reader. The book left me all warm and tingly, a truly beautiful Christmas story.

The book was about Pierce Waverly, the Early of Devonmont who has been estranged from his family since he was around seven years old and he doesn't know why. One day his parents just let him go to school and during the break, he isn't welcome in the house by neither of his parents and is sent to live with his cousins. He doesn't get to see his mother for most of his life, so when his mother's companion Camilla Stuart writes him a letter telling him that his mother is seriously ill, he goes home to see her only to learn that the young widow has tricked him.

Pierce is completely stunned that Camilla Stuart would go out of her way to trick him into coming home and seeing his mother, but the young window does not seem to understand why the Earl refuses to see her. As far as Camilla knows Lady Devonmont is completely heart broken and misses her son. Of course Pierce also didn't expect Mrs. Camilla Stuart to be young and beautiful. In order to play up to her wishes, Pierce want's to play by his own rules. He will have dinner with Camilla and his mother, if Camilla entertains him after dinner up in his room. Of course sparks fly right off the bed, and things become pretty tense. At first Pierce doesn't want to bed the lady, just simply 'intimidate' her but her past and her experience has him yearning to learn more.

I did really enjoy the book. I loved the characters, and the fact that there was this mystery about why Lady Devonmont estranged her son had me wanting to finish it as soon as possible. I liked the tension between all the characters. I loved Camilla, because she had such a big heart and really wanted to make things work for the Earl and the lady. Pierce was also wicked, and my heart ached for him, as he was abandoned at such an early age by his own mother and father. The story was beautifully written, a perfect holiday read that kept me entertained and enthralled. It's a book six of Hellions of Halstead Hall series, and I am a little disappointed that I have not gotten a chance to read the first few books up this far. Now that I learned about this wonderful author, I will definitely be backtracking to book one.

[Katherine 黄爱芬 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pierce Waverly, Earl of Devonmont, sakit hati pada ibunya karena mengabaikannya sejak dia disekolahkan dan tidak pernah bertemu dgn orangtuanya hingga kematian ayahnya. Pierce tidak pernah mengindahkan permohonan ibunya, membalas dendam dgn tidak mau menemui ibunya. Hingga suatu hari datang surat dari Camilla Stuart, wanita pendamping yg dibayar Pierce utk menemani ibunya, mengabarkan bhw ibunya sakit.

Camilla terpaksa mengelabui Pierce utk mengetes seberapa punya hati Earl yg dingin dan mengacuhkan ibunya sendiri. Ternyata baik Pierce maupun ibunya sama-sama keras kepala dan sama-sama menyimpan rahasia sakit hati masing-masing. Camilla di tengah-tengah seperti pelanduk, terjepit antara loyalitasnya pada Lady Devonmont atau bersimpati pada Pierce yg sejak bocah dibiarkan kesepian sendiri. Camilla juga sulit memungkiri pesona Earl kurang ajar ini yg terus berusaha menjadikan Camilla sbg simpanannya.

Biasanya saya gak menyukai karakter heroine yg suka ikut campur spt Camilla ini. Tapi sumpah, plot novel ini bikin penasaran hingga halaman terakhir, dan saya harus "berterimakasih" krn peranan Camilla sbg juru damai Pierce dan ibunya sangat besar. Semua dugaan ttg penyebab ibu Pierce "memaksa" Pierce utk tidak menjumpai dirinya bikin rasa penasaran saya melambung akut. Saya suka determinasi Camilla yg bersikeras tidak mau jadi mistress-nya Pierce, walaupun dia janda beranak satu dan yatim piatu. Uang bukan segalanya bagi Camilla. Saya salut dgn rasa sayang Camilla pada anaknya yg bertekad anaknya tidak akan mendapat malu gara-gara kelakuan ibunya. Saya paling malas kalau alasannya demi kenyamanan hidupnya dan anaknya, dirinya mengorbankan harga diri bla-bla-bla super bullshit!!! Kalau yg beralasan gini, sama aja sbnrnya matre yg terselubung.

Chemistry Camilla dan Pierce sangat menarik, dan bagian yg paling bikin saya ngakak adalah saat Camilla dijebak Pierce utk membaca Memoar Fanny Hill. Koplak, gilak dan menjebak!!! Penasaran?? Dibaca aja bukunya ya.