Rogue Under the Mistletoe

by Amanda Mariel

In the snow-kissed splendor of Regency England, a jaded lord with a scandalous past and a heartbroken lady determined to avoid love find themselves irresistibly drawn together in a chance meeting. Lady Eleanor Winthrop has sworn off marriage after a broken engagement. Her fierce independence and sharp wit are her shields against a world that has let her down.



Lord Alexander Harrington, Marquess Rockingham, is a dashing rake with a reputation as notorious as it is scandalous. Rather unfortunate for a man who’s grown weary of vice. Seeking a fresh start, he arrives in Lancashire, inheriting Netherfield Park and hoping to leave his past behind.



Their paths cross in the village, and a magnetic attraction ignites between them. As the festive season approaches, Eleanor hosts a grand Christmas ball, drawing the attention of local gossips and igniting scandalous rumors. Determined to set things right, Eleanor risks her heart and reputation, discovering a man worthy of redemption and love, while Alexander discovers that love is the best gift of all.



Amidst the enchanting Lancashire winter, their love blossoms against a backdrop of falling snow and twinkling stars, Eleanor and Alexander find a passionate second chance at love, proving the magic of the holiday season and the power of second chances.



Rogue Under the Mistletoe is a heartwarming Regency Romance filled with secrets, scandals, and the enchanting spirit of Christmas, perfect for readers who believe in the transformative power of love.

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

148 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2024

About the author

Amanda Mariel, an accomplished wordsmith, holds dual master's degrees in liberal arts and education, specializing in the captivating realms of history and literature. Beyond her academic pursuits, she embraces the joyful chaos of motherhood, tending to both her cherished teenagers and her trio of adored fur babies. Among them, a noble Bernese Mountain Dog named Blaze, and two cats of distinct character, Ezra and Puff, share their home.

A USA Today Bestselling luminary, Amanda Mariel conjures vivid tapestries of eras long past, drawing inspiration from the languid cadence of days gone by. With pen poised and imagination unfurled, she traverses the annals of time, weaving tales that illuminate historical landscapes with finesse and flair. Her creative spirit finds respite in reading, traversing new horizons through travel, and capturing moments through the lenses of both her camera and artistic endeavors. Yet, it is in the embrace of family that she finds her truest sanctuary.

To delve deeper into Amanda's captivating world visit www.amandamariel.com. While there, an invitation to join her newsletter promises a gateway to the latest from Amanda Mariel's literary treasury, and an opportunity to claim a complimentary eBook.

Amanda's passion extends to her readers, welcoming their voices and stories into her narrative realm. Engage with her through email at amanda@amandamariel.com, or connect via her social Media channels.

Facebook: facebook.com/AuthorAmandaMarie1
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaMarieAuth
BookBub: bookbub.com/authors/amanda-mariel
Instagram: instagram.com/authoramandamariel
TikTok: tiktok.com/@amandamarielromance

Amidst the prose and parchment, Amanda Mariel etches a profound connection, bridging eras, hearts, and minds, creating a legacy that resonates through the corridors of time.

Reviews

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written short story with strong characters in Lady Eleanor and Lord Alexander. The author takes you into their lives with scandal, romance and love. She moves the story quickly and smoothly and delivers a terrific read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.

[Sonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I simply must say that I adore the cover of this novella! It features my favorite male model and the fact that it also has a holiday theme is just an added bonus.
This is a fast-paced tale of insta-love. I was able to read it in one sitting. Despite some cheesy moments, I enjoyed reading the romantic fairy tale of Eleanor and Alexander. She was trying to overcome the heartbreak of being jilted. He was a rake looking for a chance of redemption. With the help of a few friends (Characters from Mariel’s other books?) the couple manages to reach the altar by the end of the holiday season. The length of the novella does make it feel a bit campy, but it is also virtually angst-free for this same reason. The festive holiday atmosphere made me wish that it was not 90 degrees outside!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rogue Under the Mistletoe is a standalone historical romance by Amanda Mariel. It is set in Regency England during the winter, surrounding a wealthy family's Christmas ball.

Lord Alexander Harrington, the new Marquess of Rockingham, is nothing short of a scandalous rake - at least to the Society gossips. While some of that reputation is well earned, Alex has recently been reflecting on his life. He knows he needs to create a change in his life, and getting out of town and back to his family's land seems to be the thing to do. Meanwhile, Lady Eleanor Winthrop is a proper. She has had her heartbroken after a failed engagement and she has basically given up on love.

With Lord Alexander arriving at his estate, and their paths crossing in the local village, it seems like fate is throwing these two together. Together they court scandal and gossip once more, very much unwillingly and neither of them at fault. These two have an uneasy start, but it is getting to know the characters more that makes it clear that there's definitely something more between them.

A sweet, charming, Christmas book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was Christmas time and Eleanor was still reeling a year after she broke off her betrothal to Viscount Shewbury. As a distraction, she set about putting together her family’s traditonal Christmas ball. Alexander had a well deserved reputation as a rake. Now that he was the Marquess of Rockingham with a newly inherited country estate, he wanted to redeem himself and change his ways. Eleanor and Alexander met one day when each of them were shopping in the village local to both of their estates. The attraction was instant and palpable. The ball was a success, the couple got close and then the rumors flew. This is a delightful second change/new beginnings story. Eleanor brings out the best in Alexander, and he makes her feel safe and seen. Lydia and Seb are the helpful sidekicks, while Prudence (who clearly wasn’t) and Eleanor’s mother were the opposition. This is a quick sweet story with hints of heaviness and regret, that will leave you with a smile and a sigh.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic well written story by this author. Full of love, romance, drama, society, action, forgiveness and Christmas. Love this time of the year when there's light snow, festive decorations, sweet smells and holiday parties. Eleanor has broken off her engagement a year ago and by society rules, she has injured her reputation. So this year , she has decided to bt the main organizer for the annual holiday ball given by her family. Hoping that she may find someone to marry per her mother. She meets Alexander in the village one day and hopes to see him at the ball. Alexander is the new Lord Rockingham, hoping to be able to change his reputation into something better with a fresh start. Both start to have feelings for the other. They do have to get thru those issues and society interference before they get their happily ever after. Loved the ending and even the snowman. Great read to curl up with and enjoy. would recommend to everyone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was Alexander and Eleanore’s story. In the snow-kissed splendor of Regency England, a jaded lord with a scandalous past and a heartbroken lady determined to avoid love find themselves irresistibly drawn together in a chance meeting. Lady Eleanor Winthrop has sworn off marriage after a broken engagement. Her fierce independence and sharp wit are her shields against a world that has let her down. Lord Alexander Harrington, Marquess Rockingham, is a dashing rake with a reputation as notorious as it is scandalous. Rather unfortunate for a man who’s grown weary of vice. Seeking a fresh start, he arrives in Lancashire, inheriting Netherfield Park and hoping to leave his past behind. What will happen between these two? It was an entertaining read. And voluntarily leaving this review.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have Lady Eleanor Winthrop who has taken a year off after a broken engagement! It is not clear why she and her former beau did not suit but Eleanor is determined to find love!
Lord Alexander Harrington, Marquess Rockingham, is a dashing rake with a reputation as a notorious rake which was well deserved!
Alexander had a look in the mirror and does not like what he sees!
He has a chance in the country to reform his ways and become a better man!
When Alexander meets Eleanor she is exactly what he needed and wants but everyone is not on their side! What will it take to win her and her mother’s approval? Can a Leopard change his spots? Let’s hope so!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review! It is also a part of the Regency hearts collection!

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet story of two people who have endured some hard knocks in life but are keen to explore a new beginning. Lord Alexander has led quite the hedonistic life in the past but now after becoming the new Marquess of Rockingham he is keen to reform and try to be a better self.

Lady Eleanor, following her broken engagement is willing to look at life afresh and start anew by planning the Christmas party for the family. A chance encounter in the local village leads to sparks flying and a new beginning.

I received an ARC from Booksprout and submit my honest review herewith.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story does bring in the Christmas spirit with all the preparations for the ball. The heroine and hero have an instant connection when the meet. She has had a heartbreak with a broken engagement and he is trying to redeem his reputation. There is some trouble when a villain pops up in the middle of the story, but we do get a HEA. I thought the instant attraction was a bit much, but it is a short story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be a good story to read on a hot and humid summer day. While I avoid the 88 degrees outside, I can briefly live in a snowy winter scene with Eleanor and Alexander. The Christmas Eve ball is a big to-do, and a lot of attention goes into creating a successful ball. The story brings us through before, during, and after the ball. We experience the family disagreements, anxiety that everything go well, minor scandal, and an instant attraction between Eleanor and Alexander. I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

best christmas gift ever
What better christmas gift can there be than two wounded hearts finding true love? Everybody reacts in a different way after being jaded, some become reclusive, others choose the aggressive way of hurting others the way they´ve been hurt. I´m always happy to read about people meeting their soulmate and finding the courage to give love another try.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fasted paced Christmas story filled with joy and good cheer. Eleanor is in charge of arranging a Christmas ball. She has a great personality. Alexander is a rake looking to redeem himself. Together they bring the joy of the holiday spirit to life for everyone around them. Beautiful story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fasted paced Christmas story filled with joy and good cheer. Eleanor is in charge of arranging a Christmas ball. She has a great personality. Alexander is a rake looking to redeem himself. Together they bring the joy of the holiday spirit to life for everyone around them. Beautiful story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eleanor and Alexander are both looking for second chances with their damaged reputations when they meet and form an instant attraction. He says he wants to change from being a rogue but he tries to seduce her at her own ball and his past reputation damages hers. Their relationship escalates pretty quickly and her mother tries to get between them worried he will break Eleanor’s heart.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this holiday novella. It was fun to join Eleanor and Alexander on their journey as they met and were able to work their way to their happily ever after. Add in the Christmas season and you have all the best feels! I really enjoy the cover as well.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely story by one of my favorite authors. I've read other stories by this author and have enjoyed them and this one also did not disappoint. This was a well-written story and I enjoyed the premise. The characters were interesting and the banter between them was lively and fun. A lovely read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the regency historical romance element to this book. It uses the historical feel that I wanted and thought the overall feel worked overall. The characters were really well done and enjoyed the story itself.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The holidays always add and unexpected twist. Combined with a handsome Rogue and a beautiful woman that are thrown together and have to maneuver through the differences in their personality and the issues that are happening. Like the historical setting and the interpretation that the author has. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

The characters have faced past choices that make it difficult to be accepted in society. This also leads to mistrust of each other. However, they are still drawn to each other and can't resist exploring what might be. It was a short read of an hour.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this wonderful story set in the Christmas season about a reformed rogue and a jilted lady. Can their unexpected meeting lead to something so much more as they spend more and more time with each other.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love small romances like this one where there is where the leads feel so right together. It was so romantic!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A confectionery heartache that hits the spot. From the allure of romance to the emotion of love, Mariel tackles it all. Rogue Under the Mistletoe is a tempting heartbreaker with heart warming tendencies. A short, sweet treat.

[Jini · Rating 1 out of 5]

A marquess, a Duke's daughter and an Earl's daughter go and beg a village gossip not to spread rumours and when that doesn't work, they go door to door in the village like cops to gather witness statements!

Minus 5 stars.

[Gloria Catharine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully written. Places and characters are brought to life in this Holiday Tale. Full of heartbreak, new beginnings, redemption and love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The perfect holiday treat

The only thing I needed more of in this story was...a longer story! I enjoyed the characters very much and I wanted to get deeper into their relationship with each other and their friends!

[Richard Burlton · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am sorry but I cannot like this book. The plot has no originality, the characters have little depth and the writing is sloppy. This is only a short book but you get multiple repetitions for the same emotional responses and thoughts by each of the main characters.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A chance meeting at Christmas is a great start for Alexander and Eleanor to make their own choices despite the past. Well written, but almost too sweet with most interactions, plans and dialogue too “perfect” for me.

[Suze Prescot · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas Period Romance

A reformed rake and a bolting bride find love.
Short story, set in the Regency period.
Sadly, it feels incomplete and rushed, contains anachronisms and assumptions, repetitions and an uneven storyline. Not unreadable, but disappointing.

[Melanie Purcell · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author transports the reader into a vivid world with detailed descriptions of life in another time. It makes the story come alive with Christmas cheer!

[Lisa H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another rake…

Yawn. Yet another rake gets a happy ending. This time it’s Alexander. It’s off to Netherfield Park and Eleanor. She takes all the risks.