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Hidden #6
Winter's Tale
Something sexy is afoot at Rackham's School for Young Ladies. Half faerie, half elf Hans Winter broke the heart of the wrong princess. Cursed to live as a statue at a school for human girls, only true love—and true bravery—can free him.
December Worth never met a rule she didn’t want to break, as the numerous institutions that expelled her can attest. Bravery she can handle. Love she’s less sure about, especially if it involves believing in fairytales.
A kiss seems like the last thing these lonely souls would share, until one night in the cemetery where Hans stands trapped, Fate brings stone and flesh together . . .
December Worth never met a rule she didn’t want to break, as the numerous institutions that expelled her can attest. Bravery she can handle. Love she’s less sure about, especially if it involves believing in fairytales.
A kiss seems like the last thing these lonely souls would share, until one night in the cemetery where Hans stands trapped, Fate brings stone and flesh together . . .
116 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2013
7 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Emma Holly
93 books1,269 followersI'm a USA Today bestselling author who LOVES the hot stuff, both to read and to write. My favorite obsessions are all things coffee, almost everything on HGTV, and dreaming up new stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 28, 2013
Emma Holly has done it again! In this grown up fairy tale that takes place in Ms. Holly’s Hidden universe we once again are treated to a steamy tale of sex, magic, lust and love.
December Worth is a new senior at Rackham's School for Young Ladies. She is entranced by the naked statue in the attached cemetery. What she doesn’t know is that the statue is actually ½ elf ½ faerie huntsman named Hans. He has been cursed by an angry faerie queen and only true love and true bravery can free him. Will December be the one to break the spell?
This is one smokin’ hot fairy tale told as only Emma Holly can do. Keep the ice cubes handy and enjoy.
December Worth is a new senior at Rackham's School for Young Ladies. She is entranced by the naked statue in the attached cemetery. What she doesn’t know is that the statue is actually ½ elf ½ faerie huntsman named Hans. He has been cursed by an angry faerie queen and only true love and true bravery can free him. Will December be the one to break the spell?
This is one smokin’ hot fairy tale told as only Emma Holly can do. Keep the ice cubes handy and enjoy.
September 30, 2013
The characters had some promise, but the plot was just to ridiculous to be believed. I couldn't suspend my disbelief at all, and I was unable to connect to the story in any way. I wanted to like it, but it just didn't work for me.
July 29, 2013
It's a short story, 103 pages, making it 3.5 in the Hidden erotic paranormal romance that touches around the fae, elves, shifters, and humans in, around, and loosely around the town of Resurrection, although this story takes place in Kingaken, New York.
Holly has the first three novel-length stories in a single book and the first two shorts in a single, so you might want to wait until this one merges with the other two shorts. "Winter's Tale" does include the main characters from Move Me Duet , so it makes sense that this threesome will result.
My Take
This was a unique take. Okay, so Pygmalion brought his statue to life way back when, but this is a first for me in reading a novel of today.
Holly is so good at creating a sensual scene that pulls a response from the reader, but not this time. The words are there, but the feeling is not. I suspect this lack started with the graveyard scene and December's actions within it. Even looking back at it, I still can't figure out if it was the opportunity for tension that didn't play out or if it was just too weird for me. Maybe a combination? Holly certainly writes the scene with great detail, leaving me wondering what was happening, intriguing me. Maybe it was too fast? And yet there are more tension possibilities that crop up and don't go anywhere. Readus interruptus, perhaps?
The time December spends in the cemetery, the feelings Hans inspires, and his worry about giving up hope are rather same-samey. Nothing too exciting. Sort of a kiss of death for the reader...
Hmmm, interesting comment: "If all a school trained students in was how to take exams, it might as well close up shop." And people wonder why students today aren't doing so well in school…
It has the potential to be a good story, but it isn't written well enough for me to suspend belief and fall into it.
That bit at the end is a twist---a matchmaker? How very appropriate. And then the meeting with her parents! I adored how Hans leapt to her defense, LOL.
The Story
Sent to yet another boarding school, December takes its measure and finds it lacking in so many respects. All but that incredible marble statue in the graveyard. The one that calls to her, with whom December takes liberties.
The Characters
December Worth is a problem child who's been expelled from more boarding schools. She's simply not capable of behaving as the child of Old Money should. Paul Worth is her father; her mother is too interested in how chic she is.
Hans William Winter, half-elf and half-faerie, was a huntsman who has been cursed into a marble statue in the Dire Woods. A wood that became a graveyard.
December's schoolmates include:
Nina is the ringleader with Alicia and Brianne, who hates Dr. Who, but is channeling Snow White's tale, as part of her little clique.
Miss Westin is the French teacher who doesn't know the language very well, but she is fascinated by folklore and fairy tales. Mrs. Blake is the librarian.
Queen Araun is the faerie queen who wants Hans dead. Duvall ("Faerie's Honeymoon", 2.7) and Belle ("Move Me", 2.6; Move Me Duet includes "Move Me" and "Faerie's Honeymoon") own the junk shop.
Rackham School for Young Ladies is December's twelfth institution.
The Cover
The cover is cold in blues, grays, and white with ice coating the ferny leaves and the marble body of a statue of a man. I love the gradation of the title sliding from light against the statue to dark against the leaves.
The title tells it's best, for it is Winter's Tale to reveal.
Holly has the first three novel-length stories in a single book and the first two shorts in a single, so you might want to wait until this one merges with the other two shorts. "Winter's Tale" does include the main characters from Move Me Duet , so it makes sense that this threesome will result.
My Take
This was a unique take. Okay, so Pygmalion brought his statue to life way back when, but this is a first for me in reading a novel of today.
Holly is so good at creating a sensual scene that pulls a response from the reader, but not this time. The words are there, but the feeling is not. I suspect this lack started with the graveyard scene and December's actions within it. Even looking back at it, I still can't figure out if it was the opportunity for tension that didn't play out or if it was just too weird for me. Maybe a combination? Holly certainly writes the scene with great detail, leaving me wondering what was happening, intriguing me. Maybe it was too fast? And yet there are more tension possibilities that crop up and don't go anywhere. Readus interruptus, perhaps?
The time December spends in the cemetery, the feelings Hans inspires, and his worry about giving up hope are rather same-samey. Nothing too exciting. Sort of a kiss of death for the reader...
Hmmm, interesting comment: "If all a school trained students in was how to take exams, it might as well close up shop." And people wonder why students today aren't doing so well in school…
It has the potential to be a good story, but it isn't written well enough for me to suspend belief and fall into it.
That bit at the end is a twist---a matchmaker? How very appropriate. And then the meeting with her parents! I adored how Hans leapt to her defense, LOL.
The Story
Sent to yet another boarding school, December takes its measure and finds it lacking in so many respects. All but that incredible marble statue in the graveyard. The one that calls to her, with whom December takes liberties.
The Characters
December Worth is a problem child who's been expelled from more boarding schools. She's simply not capable of behaving as the child of Old Money should. Paul Worth is her father; her mother is too interested in how chic she is.
Hans William Winter, half-elf and half-faerie, was a huntsman who has been cursed into a marble statue in the Dire Woods. A wood that became a graveyard.
December's schoolmates include:
Nina is the ringleader with Alicia and Brianne, who hates Dr. Who, but is channeling Snow White's tale, as part of her little clique.
Miss Westin is the French teacher who doesn't know the language very well, but she is fascinated by folklore and fairy tales. Mrs. Blake is the librarian.
Queen Araun is the faerie queen who wants Hans dead. Duvall ("Faerie's Honeymoon", 2.7) and Belle ("Move Me", 2.6; Move Me Duet includes "Move Me" and "Faerie's Honeymoon") own the junk shop.
Rackham School for Young Ladies is December's twelfth institution.
The Cover
The cover is cold in blues, grays, and white with ice coating the ferny leaves and the marble body of a statue of a man. I love the gradation of the title sliding from light against the statue to dark against the leaves.
The title tells it's best, for it is Winter's Tale to reveal.
June 8, 2013
Bad girl meets bad boy and the fireworks begin! WINTER'S TALE is a hawt erotic novel which will melt all the snow in winter. December Worth is a bad girl with authority issues. She's in her rebellious stage, which is evident through all the boarding schools she's been kicked out of and is now stuck at Rackham's School for Young Ladies.
This is the most desolate place for December. December susses out the queen bee at this place and easily surpasses her in coolness. It helps that December is very experienced in assessing people and what makes them tick.
This story could be just a bad girl getting back at daddy and her catfights with the girls at this new school. Instead, a mystery is involved. Something supernatural is going on and revolves around a sexy male statue in a graveyard. The statue is a frozen Hans Winter who crossed the wrong queen - an irrational faerie queen to be exact.
Ms. Holly always delivers a spellbinding love story with interesting characters. In WINTER'S TALE, the world building is magical as well as deadly. The twists and turns in the plot are not all expected. There are a couple of red herrings which could catch a reader off guard. This makes the story more compelling and enjoyable.
The weaving of the fae world with mortal domain is delightful as it concludes in a fairy tale ending. The epilogue neatly wraps up a hurt December couldn't overcome on her own. With her perfect mate by her side, she's grown up and old wounds are healed.
This is a sweet tale mingled with romance, revenge, obsession and above all, a happily ever after. Recommended for paranormal romance readers who are looking for their bad boy Prince Charming.
May 29, 2013
Winter's Tale is a pretty naughty book that reads more like very well written high fantasy elf porn. Like something a young Legolas would have read with a flash light under the covers when his parents thought he was asleep. Winter's Tale is a naughty Narnia for grown-ups. A very rich & very precocious girl locked away in all girls boarding school gets super kinky in a graveyard with a statue of a 200 yo enchanted fairy. Caught between being a good girls gone wild story or riding on the crazy train delusional nympho story that would sound weird if you described it to a friend, Winter's Tale is just out there.
The story includes old rivalries, secret spells, danger, fae lore, and a daring escape. I can't go into specifics because they are super spoilery. So if you are in the mood for Mean Girls rock the Fae, check out this short sexy novella.
Winter's Tale is part of the Move Me series which includes Move Me and The Faerie's Honeymoon
The story includes old rivalries, secret spells, danger, fae lore, and a daring escape. I can't go into specifics because they are super spoilery. So if you are in the mood for Mean Girls rock the Fae, check out this short sexy novella.
Winter's Tale is part of the Move Me series which includes Move Me and The Faerie's Honeymoon
January 30, 2013
Between a rock and a hard place.
Yeah, couldn’t resist. But get your minds out of the gutter.
Alright, keep them there, because there are a lot of hot scenes in this book, in all sorts of combinations. Yes, it’s true – there is human/fairy/elf STATUE sex in this book. But it’s OK, because they get married in the end (yeah, as if a book like this would have any other kind of ending – this isn’t Anna Karenina, ya know).
This is a quick, well written and fun read, filled with wanabee mean girls, scary teachers, evil fairy queens, dogs that make angry pit bulls look like Pokémon, and lots of sex – oh wait, I already mentioned that. And one kick ass heroine – December (where do they come up with these names?) is worth her weight in gold.
Recommended.
Yeah, couldn’t resist. But get your minds out of the gutter.
Alright, keep them there, because there are a lot of hot scenes in this book, in all sorts of combinations. Yes, it’s true – there is human/fairy/elf STATUE sex in this book. But it’s OK, because they get married in the end (yeah, as if a book like this would have any other kind of ending – this isn’t Anna Karenina, ya know).
This is a quick, well written and fun read, filled with wanabee mean girls, scary teachers, evil fairy queens, dogs that make angry pit bulls look like Pokémon, and lots of sex – oh wait, I already mentioned that. And one kick ass heroine – December (where do they come up with these names?) is worth her weight in gold.
Recommended.
July 7, 2013
I liked the heroine, but felt the story was a little bit under-done, or maybe to out there for the short amount of pages dedicated to it.
March 24, 2013
Joint review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/03/20/...
Publisher: Self-published
Publish Date: Out now
How we got this book: ARC from the author
Something sexy is afoot at Rackham’s School for Young Ladies
Half-faerie, half-elf Hans Winter broke the heart of the wrong princess. Cursed to live as a statue at a school for human girls, only true love—and true bravery—can free him.
December Worth never met a rule she didn’t want to break, as the numerous institutions that have expelled her can attest. Bravery she can handle. Love she’s less sure about, especially if it involves believing in fairytales.
A kiss seems like the last thing these lonely souls would share, until one night in the cemetery where Hans stands trapped, Fate brings stone and flesh together . . .
This blurb came from the author’s website.
Has: I am a fan of Emma Holly’s books, because she can sure write erotic romance which are hot and very sexy. But I have to say I am really drawn to her fantasy erotic romances, because she combines imagination and heat in a delectable way. Winter’s Tale is set in her Hidden world, where the fae and other magical beings exist albeit hidden in the modern world. Winter’s Tale is a bit of a departure though because like the title suggests, it is more of a fairy-talesque take which has elements of other fairy-tales which I enjoyed. December Worth, is a young girl who is sent to live in a variety of boarding schools, because she rejects to be conventional from her more restrictive parents, And in the latest school she is sent to – she encounters a mysterious statue of a man who is be-spelled in a curse and he holds a promise of true love which she holds the key to unlocking.
I found this was a cute and sexy read and I loved the fairy tale tone and feel of the story. I also liked December’s character, who was rebellious, snarky and fun and I wished this story was longer because I would have liked to see more of her in action. Winter’s Tale was also slightly different from Emma Holly’s other books, because it had a dreamy like quality and although I enjoyed the tone because it did fit the story really well. Although I wished there was a lot more expanding the plot, especially in developing the romance which was rushed for me.
E: Like Has I have also been a huge fan of Holly for a very long time. She has the ability to provide a high heat level while developing her characters, their world, and carrying forward a plot. The combination of those things is what has kept her on my autobuy list. Holly does not shy away from including paranormal aspects or characters in her stories. Even when they are melded into a more familiar earth-like world she ensures that they are noticeably not human. The distinction makes her worlds even more solid to my imagination. Winter’s Tale is set in a different part of Holly’s Hidden series world and gave me a different perspective than that of the shapeshifters.
While I enjoyed Winter’s Tale, I also wished it was longer. December’s character was so much fun. Watching her transform from spoiled, bored, too smart for her own good to someone who took fairy-tales so seriously that she risked her life was a lot of fun. I just wish it was more gradual. I really enjoyed December’s inner monologue because it provided a lot of insight into her character and why she could possibly be the one to break Hans’ curse. I also wanted to know what happened to some of the students and instructors, their pasts and futures because they seemed stuck at the school for a particular reason. I was really intrigued with this particular setting and saw the potential for some branches or just some fleshing out in the supporting cast I wanted a longer story.
Has: I agree! I think there was huge potential for exploring that aspect. I liked the New Adult feel because it was very much about coming of age and exploring sexuality especially with December because she basically grew up and matured over the course of the book. But I was disappointed that this was glossed over because the back-story was interesting and even though fairy-tales have insta-love – I found it hard to believe that Hans and December had true love especially when it tied in with breaking of the curse, because of the story’s length which was so short. I would have also liked to see more of Han’s back story especially on how he got cursed and would have loved to see more of the fae world because it would have added more depth to the story.
E: Yes I was more able to by December’s love because Hans was the first person who actually saw her value but I wasn’t as sold on Hans’ love. During his story to December while I understood that he had been wronged I wasn’t sure that his time as a statue taught him how to love. Hans was not in a very good position throughout most of the book but I did enjoy how he was able to use his mind to work with December to prove to her that he was real not just a dream. I also liked the fact that he valued December as more than a chance at freedom. He was also pretty intent on ensuring she enjoyed herself **grin** despite his years of frustration. Hans had some real potential as a character that I hope we get to see in a later book.
Has: Yes! I found this was my main gripe about the story, because we never really got to see how he felt about her and when they were together, it was either facing danger or making love, and I would loved more of the emotional aspect being developed. And unlike December’s character which really stood out for me, I found Hans a tad undeveloped because I never got a real sense of his characterisation. But I think this was due to the short length of the story, and their scenes together was sizzling and I liked the underlying sweetness in the tone as well when he was with her. I think because there was so much promise and potential if this was expanded this would have been a stellar story.
Overall, despite the short length and some undeveloped factors, I did enjoy Winter’s Tale, because it was a sweet romance with erotically charged scenes which added to the dreamy and fairy-talesque feel and tone. Which added a lush sexiness to the romance – I really hope we get to revisit those characters, because December stood out for me because she was such a fun heroine!
I give Winter’s Tale a C+
E: Winter’s Tale provided a very entertaining glimpse into how capricious both humans and fae can be. It showcased December who was the poster child for difficult and let her shine. It had magic, conspiracy, hot smexytimes, the power of love, and a seriously creepy boarding school. I enjoyed reading Winter’s Tale even though I wish it was longer so I could have enjoyed the journey they characters took as they matured. Holly remains on my auto-buy list because she consistently delivers a story I can lose myself in regardless of the length. I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next in her Hidden world.
I give Winter’s Tale a B-
Publisher: Self-published
Publish Date: Out now
How we got this book: ARC from the author
Something sexy is afoot at Rackham’s School for Young Ladies
Half-faerie, half-elf Hans Winter broke the heart of the wrong princess. Cursed to live as a statue at a school for human girls, only true love—and true bravery—can free him.
December Worth never met a rule she didn’t want to break, as the numerous institutions that have expelled her can attest. Bravery she can handle. Love she’s less sure about, especially if it involves believing in fairytales.
A kiss seems like the last thing these lonely souls would share, until one night in the cemetery where Hans stands trapped, Fate brings stone and flesh together . . .
This blurb came from the author’s website.
Has: I am a fan of Emma Holly’s books, because she can sure write erotic romance which are hot and very sexy. But I have to say I am really drawn to her fantasy erotic romances, because she combines imagination and heat in a delectable way. Winter’s Tale is set in her Hidden world, where the fae and other magical beings exist albeit hidden in the modern world. Winter’s Tale is a bit of a departure though because like the title suggests, it is more of a fairy-talesque take which has elements of other fairy-tales which I enjoyed. December Worth, is a young girl who is sent to live in a variety of boarding schools, because she rejects to be conventional from her more restrictive parents, And in the latest school she is sent to – she encounters a mysterious statue of a man who is be-spelled in a curse and he holds a promise of true love which she holds the key to unlocking.
I found this was a cute and sexy read and I loved the fairy tale tone and feel of the story. I also liked December’s character, who was rebellious, snarky and fun and I wished this story was longer because I would have liked to see more of her in action. Winter’s Tale was also slightly different from Emma Holly’s other books, because it had a dreamy like quality and although I enjoyed the tone because it did fit the story really well. Although I wished there was a lot more expanding the plot, especially in developing the romance which was rushed for me.
E: Like Has I have also been a huge fan of Holly for a very long time. She has the ability to provide a high heat level while developing her characters, their world, and carrying forward a plot. The combination of those things is what has kept her on my autobuy list. Holly does not shy away from including paranormal aspects or characters in her stories. Even when they are melded into a more familiar earth-like world she ensures that they are noticeably not human. The distinction makes her worlds even more solid to my imagination. Winter’s Tale is set in a different part of Holly’s Hidden series world and gave me a different perspective than that of the shapeshifters.
While I enjoyed Winter’s Tale, I also wished it was longer. December’s character was so much fun. Watching her transform from spoiled, bored, too smart for her own good to someone who took fairy-tales so seriously that she risked her life was a lot of fun. I just wish it was more gradual. I really enjoyed December’s inner monologue because it provided a lot of insight into her character and why she could possibly be the one to break Hans’ curse. I also wanted to know what happened to some of the students and instructors, their pasts and futures because they seemed stuck at the school for a particular reason. I was really intrigued with this particular setting and saw the potential for some branches or just some fleshing out in the supporting cast I wanted a longer story.
Has: I agree! I think there was huge potential for exploring that aspect. I liked the New Adult feel because it was very much about coming of age and exploring sexuality especially with December because she basically grew up and matured over the course of the book. But I was disappointed that this was glossed over because the back-story was interesting and even though fairy-tales have insta-love – I found it hard to believe that Hans and December had true love especially when it tied in with breaking of the curse, because of the story’s length which was so short. I would have also liked to see more of Han’s back story especially on how he got cursed and would have loved to see more of the fae world because it would have added more depth to the story.
E: Yes I was more able to by December’s love because Hans was the first person who actually saw her value but I wasn’t as sold on Hans’ love. During his story to December while I understood that he had been wronged I wasn’t sure that his time as a statue taught him how to love. Hans was not in a very good position throughout most of the book but I did enjoy how he was able to use his mind to work with December to prove to her that he was real not just a dream. I also liked the fact that he valued December as more than a chance at freedom. He was also pretty intent on ensuring she enjoyed herself **grin** despite his years of frustration. Hans had some real potential as a character that I hope we get to see in a later book.
Has: Yes! I found this was my main gripe about the story, because we never really got to see how he felt about her and when they were together, it was either facing danger or making love, and I would loved more of the emotional aspect being developed. And unlike December’s character which really stood out for me, I found Hans a tad undeveloped because I never got a real sense of his characterisation. But I think this was due to the short length of the story, and their scenes together was sizzling and I liked the underlying sweetness in the tone as well when he was with her. I think because there was so much promise and potential if this was expanded this would have been a stellar story.
Overall, despite the short length and some undeveloped factors, I did enjoy Winter’s Tale, because it was a sweet romance with erotically charged scenes which added to the dreamy and fairy-talesque feel and tone. Which added a lush sexiness to the romance – I really hope we get to revisit those characters, because December stood out for me because she was such a fun heroine!
I give Winter’s Tale a C+
E: Winter’s Tale provided a very entertaining glimpse into how capricious both humans and fae can be. It showcased December who was the poster child for difficult and let her shine. It had magic, conspiracy, hot smexytimes, the power of love, and a seriously creepy boarding school. I enjoyed reading Winter’s Tale even though I wish it was longer so I could have enjoyed the journey they characters took as they matured. Holly remains on my auto-buy list because she consistently delivers a story I can lose myself in regardless of the length. I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next in her Hidden world.
I give Winter’s Tale a B-
July 23, 2017
This book was alright. It got better the more I read, but I have to say I almost stopped reading in the first chapter when she was thinking about having sex with a statue. Seriously? That's freaking weird.
Though December (who names a character that?) is 18, this is more of a new adult book due to content.
Hans is half fae, half elf, yet when December describes him one time, she says he has satyr legs. Either she doesn't know what a satyr is, or she meant it differently, and if that's the chance, it wasn't clearly explained. And when she (the author) talked about the different powers he got from his mixed heritage, it sounds like something is had physically versus a power. "My half fae is lucky." That may no be the exact wording, but that's how it came across to me.
The writing left a lot to be desired, but I found surprisingly few spelling mistakes. The writing felt flat for a good portion and it jumped from third person, to first, and back again.
The very beginning was the worst, when the reader was given information about December and why she was at a few girl's school. Probably one of the worst introductions I've ever read. It made me want to slap her instead of feel sorry for her or anything that I'm sure the author was going for. We get it: you want December to be a spoiled but not spoiled, badass, daredevil, rule breaker with blond hair.
The only thing I'll give Holly is that I was surprised at who the real villain was.
It barely took an hour to read, so if you're looking for something to do to waste time, that is all this book is good for.
Though December (who names a character that?) is 18, this is more of a new adult book due to content.
Hans is half fae, half elf, yet when December describes him one time, she says he has satyr legs. Either she doesn't know what a satyr is, or she meant it differently, and if that's the chance, it wasn't clearly explained. And when she (the author) talked about the different powers he got from his mixed heritage, it sounds like something is had physically versus a power. "My half fae is lucky." That may no be the exact wording, but that's how it came across to me.
The writing left a lot to be desired, but I found surprisingly few spelling mistakes. The writing felt flat for a good portion and it jumped from third person, to first, and back again.
The very beginning was the worst, when the reader was given information about December and why she was at a few girl's school. Probably one of the worst introductions I've ever read. It made me want to slap her instead of feel sorry for her or anything that I'm sure the author was going for. We get it: you want December to be a spoiled but not spoiled, badass, daredevil, rule breaker with blond hair.
The only thing I'll give Holly is that I was surprised at who the real villain was.
It barely took an hour to read, so if you're looking for something to do to waste time, that is all this book is good for.
May 20, 2023
This was a great quick fantasy read. It was a fun little adventure with good spice.
February 25, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
There’s something about a man cursed for unjust reasons that makes a romance reader stand up and notice. Add in a mystery, a plea in the night and delicious naughty dreams that may or may not be real and it sweetens the pot. How could I resist? Plus, the fact that the illustrious Ms. Holly has a way with sexual encounters pretty much insured that this would be an entertaining read. I was right.
The first thing the author did was introduce me to the heroine, December. Her parents have pretty much given up on her and in fact are a nonevent in her life save the money they spend in lieu of their attentions.
They came across as rather cold fish who substitute public opinion for genuine emotions or affections. It’s a sad, lonely picture that is drawn and it helped make the case that December is a woman who doesn’t trust easy and has no belief in the word ‘love’. Someone so young with a whole future in front of her should have hope, but what will inspire it?
A mystery discovered on a daring walk in the night attracts more attention to December than she ever dreamed. Her mind, her intellect and her drive to action are all engaged as the heroine realized that something wasn’t right, wasn’t normal and it demanded of her more than she thought possible of giving. It’s her character growth that I found appealing.
Hans is not an ordinary man, in any form. The author was effective in portraying the hero’s desperation, his yearning and his despair. Even better was his lusty thoughts and creative ways of interacting with December. A reader is treated to some very steamy scenes – well written and detailed.
This novella is definitely erotic due to the nature of some of December’s antics with Hans. I’ve read a couple of erotic stories about women and statues before and they came across as thinly veiled plots for the sole purpose of exploring kinky sex with statuary – sort of silly and uninspiring. Ms. Holly has taken a ho-hum idea and turned it into a polished gem that inspires the libido instead of putting it to sleep. She introduced a battery of feelings that ranged from disbelief, sadness, anger, desire, hopelessness, worry, elation and the all-important one, love. Hans isn’t a statue at all, but a man trapped. His connection to December is what sets this apart from what I’ve read before. There is a reason she does what she does. Of course she enjoys it – that’s what makes it so hot. But the purpose is deeper and more profound than merely sex and because the author can make an effective emotional connection between her characters and readers, it makes this book worth taking the time to read.
As for the overall conflict, man turned to stone notwithstanding, there are a few nasty surprises in store for both protagonists. Ms. Holly effectively diverted my attention with a red herring. I never dreamed that the bad were good, in an oddball sort of way, and the good were really insane. There are also some elements in the book with very strong resemblances to other fairy tales. I liked them then and I enjoyed how the author incorporated facets of them here. In fact, December is a smart fairy tale heroine, unlike the wishy-washy lambkins of old. This heroine is sassy, questions until she is satisfied with the answers and at times knows when to listen instead of smart-mouth. It comes in handy.
There is a good chunk of action and drama that made this story stand out from all that panting and detailed naughty hijinks. It’s the testing of their mettle in crisis that had me appreciating the main characters and because the writing was vivid, clear and tight, the whole scene progression was a real page-flipper.
I’m not a fan of dream sequences but in this tale, the author took the time to make a reader believe in their logic. It worked.
Winter’s Tale generates enough heat to make a reader melt. It’s a terrific fantasy made all the better by interesting characters that I enjoyed reading about. I got an extra thrill from a cameo appearance by a couple of people from a previous book I’d read, Move Me, written in the same world as this one. In fact, after seeing them again, I have an itch to read their story all over again. This is such a fun world that Ms. Holly has created; I can never seem to get enough. Try Winter’s Tale for a taste and see for yourself.
There’s something about a man cursed for unjust reasons that makes a romance reader stand up and notice. Add in a mystery, a plea in the night and delicious naughty dreams that may or may not be real and it sweetens the pot. How could I resist? Plus, the fact that the illustrious Ms. Holly has a way with sexual encounters pretty much insured that this would be an entertaining read. I was right.
The first thing the author did was introduce me to the heroine, December. Her parents have pretty much given up on her and in fact are a nonevent in her life save the money they spend in lieu of their attentions.
They came across as rather cold fish who substitute public opinion for genuine emotions or affections. It’s a sad, lonely picture that is drawn and it helped make the case that December is a woman who doesn’t trust easy and has no belief in the word ‘love’. Someone so young with a whole future in front of her should have hope, but what will inspire it?
A mystery discovered on a daring walk in the night attracts more attention to December than she ever dreamed. Her mind, her intellect and her drive to action are all engaged as the heroine realized that something wasn’t right, wasn’t normal and it demanded of her more than she thought possible of giving. It’s her character growth that I found appealing.
Hans is not an ordinary man, in any form. The author was effective in portraying the hero’s desperation, his yearning and his despair. Even better was his lusty thoughts and creative ways of interacting with December. A reader is treated to some very steamy scenes – well written and detailed.
This novella is definitely erotic due to the nature of some of December’s antics with Hans. I’ve read a couple of erotic stories about women and statues before and they came across as thinly veiled plots for the sole purpose of exploring kinky sex with statuary – sort of silly and uninspiring. Ms. Holly has taken a ho-hum idea and turned it into a polished gem that inspires the libido instead of putting it to sleep. She introduced a battery of feelings that ranged from disbelief, sadness, anger, desire, hopelessness, worry, elation and the all-important one, love. Hans isn’t a statue at all, but a man trapped. His connection to December is what sets this apart from what I’ve read before. There is a reason she does what she does. Of course she enjoys it – that’s what makes it so hot. But the purpose is deeper and more profound than merely sex and because the author can make an effective emotional connection between her characters and readers, it makes this book worth taking the time to read.
As for the overall conflict, man turned to stone notwithstanding, there are a few nasty surprises in store for both protagonists. Ms. Holly effectively diverted my attention with a red herring. I never dreamed that the bad were good, in an oddball sort of way, and the good were really insane. There are also some elements in the book with very strong resemblances to other fairy tales. I liked them then and I enjoyed how the author incorporated facets of them here. In fact, December is a smart fairy tale heroine, unlike the wishy-washy lambkins of old. This heroine is sassy, questions until she is satisfied with the answers and at times knows when to listen instead of smart-mouth. It comes in handy.
There is a good chunk of action and drama that made this story stand out from all that panting and detailed naughty hijinks. It’s the testing of their mettle in crisis that had me appreciating the main characters and because the writing was vivid, clear and tight, the whole scene progression was a real page-flipper.
I’m not a fan of dream sequences but in this tale, the author took the time to make a reader believe in their logic. It worked.
Winter’s Tale generates enough heat to make a reader melt. It’s a terrific fantasy made all the better by interesting characters that I enjoyed reading about. I got an extra thrill from a cameo appearance by a couple of people from a previous book I’d read, Move Me, written in the same world as this one. In fact, after seeing them again, I have an itch to read their story all over again. This is such a fun world that Ms. Holly has created; I can never seem to get enough. Try Winter’s Tale for a taste and see for yourself.
July 20, 2014
December Worth could be called a problem child or even an instigator. The truth is that unless she sees the reason for the rule, why bother following it. She has been drifting her entire life to find something that pulls her in that direction. Once again, December has been thrown out of her boarding school and her parents have sent her to her last chance to obtain the last of her education and make something of herself. So December finds herself at Rackham’s School for Young Ladies. Right off December realizes that something is off with some of the teachers.
December follows her normal trend of hunting all the hidden spots of the school to learn what is what. This leads her to a statue that not only draws her attention, but also leads to very hot and steamy dreams. Hans Winter is half elf and half faerie who ended up on the wrong side of the faerie queen’s temper and is now encased in a stone statue and can only be freed by loved. When December finds Hans in a seemingly forgotten cemetery, Hans believes she just might finally be the one that will free him.
December tries to figure out if she is suddenly having a breakdown at a really young age or if Hans is a real person and has been cursed. As December and Hans both work to free him, it seems that the faerie queen isn’t ready to let bygones be bygones and has set up a plot to not only keep Hans cursed but to lead to his being destroyed forever. When push comes to shove, will Hans and December find the keys to free both of them for a lifetime of love or will the faerie queen get her ultimate revenge.
Take one inquisitive student, one hot and seemingly forgotten male statue and one revengeful and powerful queen and you have the twisted plot which only true love could defeat. Hans and December learn just what love is capable of in Winter’s Tale. I felt sorry for Hans as I learned just what had been done to him and why. December’s hunt for her new school’s secrets brought her more than she would have imagined when she not only found Hans’ statue but captured his love. I loved how the night everything came down, it was the instant trust that happened between Hans and December that brought them to safety and to a future both only dreamed about. Winter’s Tale is a tale of jealously, passion, revenge and the best type of love, all of which combines allowing two people to find each other under the most unexpected circumstances. A great way to spend a few hours on a chilly winter’s night.
This book was reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.
December follows her normal trend of hunting all the hidden spots of the school to learn what is what. This leads her to a statue that not only draws her attention, but also leads to very hot and steamy dreams. Hans Winter is half elf and half faerie who ended up on the wrong side of the faerie queen’s temper and is now encased in a stone statue and can only be freed by loved. When December finds Hans in a seemingly forgotten cemetery, Hans believes she just might finally be the one that will free him.
December tries to figure out if she is suddenly having a breakdown at a really young age or if Hans is a real person and has been cursed. As December and Hans both work to free him, it seems that the faerie queen isn’t ready to let bygones be bygones and has set up a plot to not only keep Hans cursed but to lead to his being destroyed forever. When push comes to shove, will Hans and December find the keys to free both of them for a lifetime of love or will the faerie queen get her ultimate revenge.
Take one inquisitive student, one hot and seemingly forgotten male statue and one revengeful and powerful queen and you have the twisted plot which only true love could defeat. Hans and December learn just what love is capable of in Winter’s Tale. I felt sorry for Hans as I learned just what had been done to him and why. December’s hunt for her new school’s secrets brought her more than she would have imagined when she not only found Hans’ statue but captured his love. I loved how the night everything came down, it was the instant trust that happened between Hans and December that brought them to safety and to a future both only dreamed about. Winter’s Tale is a tale of jealously, passion, revenge and the best type of love, all of which combines allowing two people to find each other under the most unexpected circumstances. A great way to spend a few hours on a chilly winter’s night.
This book was reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.
February 3, 2013
So, because this is a short story, I probably should not be so hard on it. I do love Emma Holly and read a lot of her books. I was especially intrigued with the whole frozen fairy and new "bad" girl at school story line. The preview I read made me want to read the book. However, a part of me struggles because of how fast they fall in love...and I get a little leery thinking an 18 year old is having crazy sex with someone who does come across as feeling like an 18-20 year old guy, but in truth is over 200. I'm no prude, but wow, the scene where she frees him is not something I would have done at 18 and with a statue.
I did like December...she was confident, unafraid of taking risks, and came across pretty smart. Not enough to be out on her own with someone not from here - which was the other part that didn't sit well with me...the end with her parents, with her and Hans living on their own...not many 18 year olds walk away from rich parents who don't abuse them...and thrive. I get he is a fairy and lucky, but that still felt a little unrealistic to me.
If you want a book with some hot sex scenes, this is a great short read for that...and the story line isn't bad either, but if you are like me, you may be left feeling that something was missing or a little too pat.
I did like December...she was confident, unafraid of taking risks, and came across pretty smart. Not enough to be out on her own with someone not from here - which was the other part that didn't sit well with me...the end with her parents, with her and Hans living on their own...not many 18 year olds walk away from rich parents who don't abuse them...and thrive. I get he is a fairy and lucky, but that still felt a little unrealistic to me.
If you want a book with some hot sex scenes, this is a great short read for that...and the story line isn't bad either, but if you are like me, you may be left feeling that something was missing or a little too pat.
December 21, 2013
My Review:
This is a true fairytale set in the current world. December is a teen rebel. She's been kicked out of every boarding school her parents have sent her to. On her first night at her newest school, she sneaks out and discovers the cemetery. In the center of it is the extremely realistic and beautiful statue of Hans. It does things to her...very smexy things....and the story evolves from their involving curses, queens, and fairies.
This book is pretty short but it's filled with smexy times. For me, it just didn't quite do it for me, but I honestly think that was because December is so young...she's only 18. That's just too young of a heroine for me to enjoy. Which is such a personal thing and has nothing to do with the quality of the book...it just kept me from enjoying the book as much as I might have otherwise.
The book is easy to read and follow. The story line is interesting and creative. Like I said...go into it knowing that it's a fairy tale and suspend disbelief. If you like your characters a bit younger than I do, then you will probably like this one.
This is a true fairytale set in the current world. December is a teen rebel. She's been kicked out of every boarding school her parents have sent her to. On her first night at her newest school, she sneaks out and discovers the cemetery. In the center of it is the extremely realistic and beautiful statue of Hans. It does things to her...very smexy things....and the story evolves from their involving curses, queens, and fairies.
This book is pretty short but it's filled with smexy times. For me, it just didn't quite do it for me, but I honestly think that was because December is so young...she's only 18. That's just too young of a heroine for me to enjoy. Which is such a personal thing and has nothing to do with the quality of the book...it just kept me from enjoying the book as much as I might have otherwise.
The book is easy to read and follow. The story line is interesting and creative. Like I said...go into it knowing that it's a fairy tale and suspend disbelief. If you like your characters a bit younger than I do, then you will probably like this one.
December 21, 2013
My Review:
This is a true fairytale set in the current world. December is a teen rebel. She's been kicked out of every boarding school her parents have sent her to. On her first night at her newest school, she sneaks out and discovers the cemetery. In the center of it is the extremely realistic and beautiful statue of Hans. It does things to her...very smexy things....and the story evolves from their involving curses, queens, and fairies.
This book is pretty short but it's filled with smexy times. For me, it just didn't quite do it for me, but I honestly think that was because December is so young...she's only 18. That's just too young of a heroine for me to enjoy. Which is such a personal thing and has nothing to do with the quality of the book...it just kept me from enjoying the book as much as I might have otherwise.
The book is easy to read and follow. The story line is interesting and creative. Like I said...go into it knowing that it's a fairy tale and suspend disbelief. If you like your characters a bit younger than I do, then you will probably like this one.
This is a true fairytale set in the current world. December is a teen rebel. She's been kicked out of every boarding school her parents have sent her to. On her first night at her newest school, she sneaks out and discovers the cemetery. In the center of it is the extremely realistic and beautiful statue of Hans. It does things to her...very smexy things....and the story evolves from their involving curses, queens, and fairies.
This book is pretty short but it's filled with smexy times. For me, it just didn't quite do it for me, but I honestly think that was because December is so young...she's only 18. That's just too young of a heroine for me to enjoy. Which is such a personal thing and has nothing to do with the quality of the book...it just kept me from enjoying the book as much as I might have otherwise.
The book is easy to read and follow. The story line is interesting and creative. Like I said...go into it knowing that it's a fairy tale and suspend disbelief. If you like your characters a bit younger than I do, then you will probably like this one.
March 14, 2013
Full review to be posted soon:
Quick thoughts and mini review:
This was a cute and sexy fairytalesque romance set in the Hidden World. I really liked the fairy tale elements with a young girl who fights against the restrictions set up by her family and the schools she is sent to. However the short length of the story while enjoyable and satisfactory, a lot of depth was lost and it felt too breezy with how they fell in love. But overall this was a gun story to while away an afternoon.
Quick thoughts and mini review:
This was a cute and sexy fairytalesque romance set in the Hidden World. I really liked the fairy tale elements with a young girl who fights against the restrictions set up by her family and the schools she is sent to. However the short length of the story while enjoyable and satisfactory, a lot of depth was lost and it felt too breezy with how they fell in love. But overall this was a gun story to while away an afternoon.
February 12, 2013
This was another sweet love story with PLENTY of heat. I loved the heroine and the hero, and their chemistry is awesome. This one was shorter than some of the others of this world, which was a little disappointing. It was nice to have a cameo of characters from previous novels. Maybe there'll be a sequel to this one? (She wheedled).
August 16, 2014
This is a real Fairy Tale. Hans has been turned into a statue by a curse and only true love can save him. December is a rich girl whose parents can't control her, and she is at a new boarding school, after getting thrown out of several. She is curious and smart and solves the mystery. After almost being killed, a happy ending ensues. Also Belle and Duvall show up. Yay
March 24, 2016
The plot is a blend between the Greek myth of Pygmalion and Galatea and Hans Christian Anderson's "Snow Queen." Set in an all girls academy. The graveyard near the school has a reputation for strange occurrences involving a life-sized nude male statue. The story is steamy and is short enough to be read in one sitting.
August 13, 2013
Emma Holly still delivers a very sensual read. But this one is a bit on the side of vanilla, even if we are back of the fantasy world she created. I just hope that this story is an introduction for a new series of hot adventures
February 9, 2013
Too short. I enjoyed this tale of an enchanted fae and the girl who saves him from a curse. I have to confess, though, that as I get older I feel less comfortable with young heroines (18 in this case) and old heroes (several hundred years!).
November 1, 2013
I read this book out of sequence, so I'd advise anyone to visit Emma Holly's to find the correct order.
This book was crazy good. From start to finish. Being able to visualize and picture the man of your dreams
in your dreams; Awesomeness!!! Read this book! Lol
This book was crazy good. From start to finish. Being able to visualize and picture the man of your dreams
in your dreams; Awesomeness!!! Read this book! Lol
February 17, 2021
Feb 9/21 -
This one is only loosely tied to Resurrection, though it is set in the same town as Move Me. This one requires some serious suspension of disbelief, but it’s fun.
~~
Jun 3/14 -
Sweet story in the Hidden series. I just wish it had been longer.
Bought from kobo.
This one is only loosely tied to Resurrection, though it is set in the same town as Move Me. This one requires some serious suspension of disbelief, but it’s fun.
~~
Jun 3/14 -
Sweet story in the Hidden series. I just wish it had been longer.
Bought from kobo.
August 22, 2014
The plot blends the Greek myth of Pygmalion and Galatea with Hans Christian Anderson's "Snow Queen."
The story takes place in upstate New York at a private girl's school, that happens to be a close neighbor to a cemetery.
The story is steamy, and can be read in one sitting.
The story takes place in upstate New York at a private girl's school, that happens to be a close neighbor to a cemetery.
The story is steamy, and can be read in one sitting.
September 13, 2014
This was short and sweet. Emma did a sood job potraying the right bit of mystery and fantasy in Hans. He becomes every girls fantasy, no matter the age. I am impressed by the courage, the girl had in following her heart where ever to led her. #lovedit
February 11, 2013
WOW! Great story! A quick read but wonderfully original and beautifully put together. I love Emma Holly's writing style. I'm off to buy more of her books!
September 18, 2014
I am loving your Hidden Series! Just like the vampire series you continue the stories but the next story always adds so much more.
July 18, 2013
Statue sex! I kid you not... also, a great heroine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2013
Enjoyed it but not as good as the others. Seemed really short...
October 21, 2020
Not bad. I liked the overlap with the characters from Move Me, but that was a very small part of the story.
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