What do you think?
Rate this book
Regency Christmas Brides
Rules of a Ruse
Marriage was supposed to be the solution, but falling in love wasn’t part of the plan.
Mr. Alden Dandridge has received astonishing he is set to inherit a thriving horse farm in a quaint Scottish village. However, there's a formidable catch- he must be married by Twelfth Night. Undeterred, Alden journeys to Scotland, convinced that a marriage of convenience will solve all his problems.
Miss Elinor Sidney has been successfully running the horse farm for the past two years, and she has no intention of relinquishing it to Mr. Dandridge. Adding to the stakes, she learns that if Alden fails to secure a bride by Twelfth Night, the horse farm will legally belong to her. When Alden enlists her help in finding a suitable bride, Elinor agrees, though she has no true intention of aiding him.
As Alden spends more time with Elinor, he comes to realize that she is the perfect solution to his predicament. He just needs to persuade her to marry him. Yet, Elinor yearns for a marriage built on love, not convenience. When someone from Elinor's past reemerges, threatening her peace, Alden knows he must risk everything- including his heart- to protect her.
Love unfolds in unexpected ways in this light-hearted, clean, and wholesome holiday romance. Enjoy it as a stand-alone story or as the second book in the Regency Christmas Brides series.
Other books in the Regency Christmas Brides
A Seasonal Pursuit by Rebecca Connelly
Rules of a Ruse by Laura Beers
Yuletide Bride by Kasey Stockton
Married by Twelfth Night by Anneka Walker
Mr. Alden Dandridge has received astonishing he is set to inherit a thriving horse farm in a quaint Scottish village. However, there's a formidable catch- he must be married by Twelfth Night. Undeterred, Alden journeys to Scotland, convinced that a marriage of convenience will solve all his problems.
Miss Elinor Sidney has been successfully running the horse farm for the past two years, and she has no intention of relinquishing it to Mr. Dandridge. Adding to the stakes, she learns that if Alden fails to secure a bride by Twelfth Night, the horse farm will legally belong to her. When Alden enlists her help in finding a suitable bride, Elinor agrees, though she has no true intention of aiding him.
As Alden spends more time with Elinor, he comes to realize that she is the perfect solution to his predicament. He just needs to persuade her to marry him. Yet, Elinor yearns for a marriage built on love, not convenience. When someone from Elinor's past reemerges, threatening her peace, Alden knows he must risk everything- including his heart- to protect her.
Love unfolds in unexpected ways in this light-hearted, clean, and wholesome holiday romance. Enjoy it as a stand-alone story or as the second book in the Regency Christmas Brides series.
Other books in the Regency Christmas Brides
A Seasonal Pursuit by Rebecca Connelly
Rules of a Ruse by Laura Beers
Yuletide Bride by Kasey Stockton
Married by Twelfth Night by Anneka Walker
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2024
334 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Laura Beers
77 books501 followersLaura Beers is an award-winning author. She attended Brigham Young University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. She can't sing, doesn't dance and loves naps.
Laura lives in Utah with her husband, three kids, and her dysfunctional dog. When not writing regency romance, she loves waterskiing, hiking, and drinking Dr Pepper.
You can connect with Laura on Facebook, Instagram, or on her site at www.authorlaurabeers.com.
Laura lives in Utah with her husband, three kids, and her dysfunctional dog. When not writing regency romance, she loves waterskiing, hiking, and drinking Dr Pepper.
You can connect with Laura on Facebook, Instagram, or on her site at www.authorlaurabeers.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
November 1, 2024
What a delightful book! I just loved it!
Alden and Elinor are such great characters! I really enjoyed the banter between them. I also thought it funny that she was “helping” him find a match. And that they were both very afraid of spiders. Her Aunt Cecilia was also a great character and she made me laugh. I loved how Alden and Elinor’s relationship progressed and there was a certain mistletoe scene that was quite swoony.
Overall, this is a great book and I definitely recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Alden and Elinor are such great characters! I really enjoyed the banter between them. I also thought it funny that she was “helping” him find a match. And that they were both very afraid of spiders. Her Aunt Cecilia was also a great character and she made me laugh. I loved how Alden and Elinor’s relationship progressed and there was a certain mistletoe scene that was quite swoony.
Overall, this is a great book and I definitely recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 20, 2024
This book was not nearly as good as the first book. I didn't like the characters as much and the writing wasn't as good. I found some of the words and expressions that characters used to be too modern for the time period. There was also a little too much insta-love and Alden changed his playboy ways too quickly to make the love story that believable. The plot was interesting and I enjoyed the ruse with the horse farm. 3/5 stars.
Read
October 17, 2024Such a charming romance!
Alden has been left an inheritance from his great-aunt: a prosperous horse farm in Scotland. But the inheritance comes with a catch. He must marry before Twelfth Night, and it must be a girl from the village where the farm is located. As he has never had a problem attracting ladies, he is confident he can find a woman willing to enter a marriage of convenience.
Elinor has been running the horse farm for years. It is her refuge from an uncle who wants to force her into an unwanted marriage. She is less than pleased when Alden shows up at her door, confident he will be taking over the farm soon once her marries. What he doesn't know is that if he fails, the farm will belong to her. When Alden asks for her help in finding a bride, Elinor has just the plan...
What you'll love:
Regency era
set in Scotland
dual pov
reluctant to fall
whimsical side characters
matchmaking schemes
witty banter
independent heroine
the mistletoe
plot twists
happily ever after
What an adorable plot for a Christmas romance! Nothing like a ticking clock to help the romance move along. I loved the pairing of Alden and Elinor - she was headstrong and intelligent, he was a little too confident in his ability to woo women. Put them together and you get sparks!
The potential brides and Elinor's aunt were hilarious, as were all of her schemes to convince Alden to pack up and go home. What Christmas romance is complete without a little mistletoe, and oh my word, that plot twist seriously made my jaw drop!
This is the second book in the Regency Christmas Bride series and though the books have interconnecting characters, this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Alden has been left an inheritance from his great-aunt: a prosperous horse farm in Scotland. But the inheritance comes with a catch. He must marry before Twelfth Night, and it must be a girl from the village where the farm is located. As he has never had a problem attracting ladies, he is confident he can find a woman willing to enter a marriage of convenience.
Elinor has been running the horse farm for years. It is her refuge from an uncle who wants to force her into an unwanted marriage. She is less than pleased when Alden shows up at her door, confident he will be taking over the farm soon once her marries. What he doesn't know is that if he fails, the farm will belong to her. When Alden asks for her help in finding a bride, Elinor has just the plan...
What you'll love:
Regency era
set in Scotland
dual pov
reluctant to fall
whimsical side characters
matchmaking schemes
witty banter
independent heroine
the mistletoe
plot twists
happily ever after
What an adorable plot for a Christmas romance! Nothing like a ticking clock to help the romance move along. I loved the pairing of Alden and Elinor - she was headstrong and intelligent, he was a little too confident in his ability to woo women. Put them together and you get sparks!
The potential brides and Elinor's aunt were hilarious, as were all of her schemes to convince Alden to pack up and go home. What Christmas romance is complete without a little mistletoe, and oh my word, that plot twist seriously made my jaw drop!
This is the second book in the Regency Christmas Bride series and though the books have interconnecting characters, this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
January 11, 2025
3.5 stars. He's a grade A ass through fully 80% of the book and she's got zero reason to fall in love with him.
March 31, 2025
“Opening your heart is scary, but sometimes the only way to protect it is to open it.”
“I do worry you will catch cold and die.” “Why must everything end in death with you?”“It is the truth, is it not?”
"This would not do. She couldn’t develop feelings for a man that she was trying to cheat out of his inheritance."
“It has ties to Old English and can be traced back to the given name Ealdwine, which translates to ‘old friend’,” Alden.
Hilarious antics and fascinating side characters. It was satisfying to see the growth of both Alden and Elinor throughout the course of the story.
“I do worry you will catch cold and die.” “Why must everything end in death with you?”“It is the truth, is it not?”
"This would not do. She couldn’t develop feelings for a man that she was trying to cheat out of his inheritance."
“It has ties to Old English and can be traced back to the given name Ealdwine, which translates to ‘old friend’,” Alden.
Hilarious antics and fascinating side characters. It was satisfying to see the growth of both Alden and Elinor throughout the course of the story.
October 17, 2024
I absolutely ADORED this book!
"She needed to pretend to get along with him for the sake of the ruse. But once he failed to marry by the twelfth night, she would evict him. Not the other way around. "
In this story Alden, "the spare" of the family is offered a horse farm as an inheritance IF he marries. So he sets off to Scotland to find a bride and gain his inheritance. But when he gets there, he is met with the most beautiful woman, Elinor. She runs the horse farm, and she was also offered it, but that's only if Alden doesn't marry in time. So Elinor hatches a plan (with Mrs Hardys "help" lol) to sabotage Aldens marrying prospects and make him want to leave Scotland. But over time she realizes he is a wonderful man, making it hard to keep wishing him to fail . But if he marries, he's made it clear that he will sell the horse farm and move away. She doesn't want that, so the plan continues. And boy does it backfire when he starts to "seem like" he's taking an interest in one of the women she chose, for his bride. Elinors jealousy proves something she's been denying, she loves him. ❤️ But she can't be with him, or he gets the farm and she gets evicted, and furthermore he isn't interested in love, only convenience... which she will never agree to.
Alden has every plan to marry for convenience, and that's still the plan... he's not interested in love, just a match he wouldn't mind being around. But ever since he saw Elinor, he only wants her. But she refuses all his proposals and continues to push him off to someone else. So he tries to make her jealous... which works, but still she refuses all marriage of convenience.
When a threat comes to their door that is determined to take Elinor not just from the horse farm, but from him. Alden and Elinor will have to risk it all, maybe even their inheritances, to keep her safe!!! They can't be with each other, but they also don't want to lose each other. What can they do?!
Sweet story, I laughed out loud many times over Miss Hardy's antics because truly... she kept catching me off guard with all of her "helping." All in all, the romance was wonderful, and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a regency romance.
Tropes...
Forced proximity
Enemies to Lovers
Marriage of Convenience
Forbidden Romance
Friends to Lovers
Secrets *** Elinor has one, shhhhh.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. All thoughts shared here are my own.
"She needed to pretend to get along with him for the sake of the ruse. But once he failed to marry by the twelfth night, she would evict him. Not the other way around. "
In this story Alden, "the spare" of the family is offered a horse farm as an inheritance IF he marries. So he sets off to Scotland to find a bride and gain his inheritance. But when he gets there, he is met with the most beautiful woman, Elinor. She runs the horse farm, and she was also offered it, but that's only if Alden doesn't marry in time. So Elinor hatches a plan (with Mrs Hardys "help" lol) to sabotage Aldens marrying prospects and make him want to leave Scotland. But over time she realizes he is a wonderful man, making it hard to keep wishing him to fail . But if he marries, he's made it clear that he will sell the horse farm and move away. She doesn't want that, so the plan continues. And boy does it backfire when he starts to "seem like" he's taking an interest in one of the women she chose, for his bride. Elinors jealousy proves something she's been denying, she loves him. ❤️ But she can't be with him, or he gets the farm and she gets evicted, and furthermore he isn't interested in love, only convenience... which she will never agree to.
Alden has every plan to marry for convenience, and that's still the plan... he's not interested in love, just a match he wouldn't mind being around. But ever since he saw Elinor, he only wants her. But she refuses all his proposals and continues to push him off to someone else. So he tries to make her jealous... which works, but still she refuses all marriage of convenience.
When a threat comes to their door that is determined to take Elinor not just from the horse farm, but from him. Alden and Elinor will have to risk it all, maybe even their inheritances, to keep her safe!!! They can't be with each other, but they also don't want to lose each other. What can they do?!
Sweet story, I laughed out loud many times over Miss Hardy's antics because truly... she kept catching me off guard with all of her "helping." All in all, the romance was wonderful, and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a regency romance.
Tropes...
Forced proximity
Enemies to Lovers
Marriage of Convenience
Forbidden Romance
Friends to Lovers
Secrets *** Elinor has one, shhhhh.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required. All thoughts shared here are my own.
December 20, 2024
Perfectly charming!
Alden is cocky and Elinor is just the one to take him down a few pegs.
I spent a good portion of the book laughing over the shenanigans Elinor and her Aunt Cecilia cooked up to try to run Alden out of Scotland—house spiders, sheep head soup and desserts made with calves feet, and dear ol’ auntie waltzing around the house with a sheet over her head pretending to be a ghost or serenading dinner with bagpipes. It was golden. 🤣
Honestly if Hallmark would consider a regency option, I’d pay good money to see this one produced!
Content: talk of a man having a mistress & his wife a “gentleman friend”; a man tried to commit his niece unfairly to an insane asylum; brief comments about marital relations & whether or not they would be fulfilled
Alden is cocky and Elinor is just the one to take him down a few pegs.
I spent a good portion of the book laughing over the shenanigans Elinor and her Aunt Cecilia cooked up to try to run Alden out of Scotland—house spiders, sheep head soup and desserts made with calves feet, and dear ol’ auntie waltzing around the house with a sheet over her head pretending to be a ghost or serenading dinner with bagpipes. It was golden. 🤣
Honestly if Hallmark would consider a regency option, I’d pay good money to see this one produced!
Content: talk of a man having a mistress & his wife a “gentleman friend”; a man tried to commit his niece unfairly to an insane asylum; brief comments about marital relations & whether or not they would be fulfilled
November 23, 2024
Not terribly well-written
It wasn't awful, but it wasn't great either. I doubt I would have finished reading this book except that it was the second in a series. I really enjoyed the first book, and wanted to see how Alden's story turned out.
Ginormous? Are we really supposed to believe that someone would have said that back then? A little more research might have helped.
It wasn't awful, but it wasn't great either. I doubt I would have finished reading this book except that it was the second in a series. I really enjoyed the first book, and wanted to see how Alden's story turned out.
Ginormous? Are we really supposed to believe that someone would have said that back then? A little more research might have helped.
November 11, 2024
Alden is a second son and with that comes challenges. When his great aunt leaves him a horse farm, he feels like his luck and future are finally changing. The only catch is that he has to marry to inherit.
Elinor has been living on and running the horse farm, while hiding from her uncle who had planned a marriage for her that she objects to.
When Alden arrives Elinor is desperate to prevent him from inheriting, because she wants to stay there. Elinor also wants to marry for love, so obtaining the horse farm through marriage is not an option.
I loved Elinor and her aunt. They were funny and creative in their attempts at sabotage. I also loved Alden’s goodness and how much he grew as a person in his quest to inherit. The book kept me laughing, while also surprising me at times. I truly enjoyed this one and this cute couple.
Elinor has been living on and running the horse farm, while hiding from her uncle who had planned a marriage for her that she objects to.
When Alden arrives Elinor is desperate to prevent him from inheriting, because she wants to stay there. Elinor also wants to marry for love, so obtaining the horse farm through marriage is not an option.
I loved Elinor and her aunt. They were funny and creative in their attempts at sabotage. I also loved Alden’s goodness and how much he grew as a person in his quest to inherit. The book kept me laughing, while also surprising me at times. I truly enjoyed this one and this cute couple.
October 10, 2024
Such a wonderful story!
If Alden marries, he inherits a profitable horse farm. If he doesn’t, Elinor, inherits the horse farm that she has been successfully managing. That is the beginning of this wonderful book. When Elinor is hiding from her guardian, a horrible man trying to force her to marry a man more than old enough to be her grandfather. When she is faced with the possibility she determines to ‘help’ Alden find a wife by introducing him to all the unsuitable women she knows to force him to leave unmarried. Alden, as soon as he arrives and meets Elinor decides she is the one he wants to marry. How can this work when she wants to remain free and he needs to marry to escape poverty? A wonderful read. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
If Alden marries, he inherits a profitable horse farm. If he doesn’t, Elinor, inherits the horse farm that she has been successfully managing. That is the beginning of this wonderful book. When Elinor is hiding from her guardian, a horrible man trying to force her to marry a man more than old enough to be her grandfather. When she is faced with the possibility she determines to ‘help’ Alden find a wife by introducing him to all the unsuitable women she knows to force him to leave unmarried. Alden, as soon as he arrives and meets Elinor decides she is the one he wants to marry. How can this work when she wants to remain free and he needs to marry to escape poverty? A wonderful read. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
December 30, 2024
"Mr. Alden Dandridge was tired of being poor." When his Great-aunt Edith offers him a horse farm in Scotland, it's the answer to his money woes, but there's a catch--he must be married by Twelfth Night AND it must be to a young woman from the village who's fond of horses.
Miss Elinor Sidney has successfully run Lady Edith's horse farm for several years. She has no intention of letting Mr. Dandridge take possession of it, only to sell it off once he's married, BUT if he doesn't marry, the horse farm will be hers. Because Alden is unfamiliar with the young ladies in the Scottish village, he asks Elinor to help him find an acceptable bride, and she agrees. Now, the stage is set to see whose ruse (Alden's or Elinor's) will succeed.
I loved this rivals to more story! The marriage deadline and clash between two strong-willed characters promised plenty of sparks, and the author certainly delivered. I enjoyed Alden's journey from seeing marriage as a practical solution to realizing his feelings for Elinor, who is fiercely independent and dedicated to the horse farm she’s poured her heart into. Their dynamic is filled with witty banter, and simmering chemistry, making their slow-burn romance deeply satisfying.
I found Elinor's and her aunt's schemes to drive Alden out of Scotland hilarious, along with the young women Elinor introduced to Alden as prospective brides. The thread of something mysterious in Elinor's background that popped up later in the story was an interesting addition. Rules of a Ruse is a must-read this holiday season. It’s a charming addition to the Regency Christmas Brides series.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Miss Elinor Sidney has successfully run Lady Edith's horse farm for several years. She has no intention of letting Mr. Dandridge take possession of it, only to sell it off once he's married, BUT if he doesn't marry, the horse farm will be hers. Because Alden is unfamiliar with the young ladies in the Scottish village, he asks Elinor to help him find an acceptable bride, and she agrees. Now, the stage is set to see whose ruse (Alden's or Elinor's) will succeed.
I loved this rivals to more story! The marriage deadline and clash between two strong-willed characters promised plenty of sparks, and the author certainly delivered. I enjoyed Alden's journey from seeing marriage as a practical solution to realizing his feelings for Elinor, who is fiercely independent and dedicated to the horse farm she’s poured her heart into. Their dynamic is filled with witty banter, and simmering chemistry, making their slow-burn romance deeply satisfying.
I found Elinor's and her aunt's schemes to drive Alden out of Scotland hilarious, along with the young women Elinor introduced to Alden as prospective brides. The thread of something mysterious in Elinor's background that popped up later in the story was an interesting addition. Rules of a Ruse is a must-read this holiday season. It’s a charming addition to the Regency Christmas Brides series.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
January 13, 2025
Happy Dance…
This was a delightful and entertaining story. I even chuckled a few times, especially when Aunt Cecilia spoke to Elinor’s horrible uncle with frankness and sass. I almost laughed out loud when she told him he wouldn’t want to go to church with them so the church wouldn’t get struck by lightning. I would have liked more sizzling kissing moments, though, and the irregular marriage thing didn’t sit well with me, even though it was a real thing. I wanted a traditional wedding. But I still loved it and enjoyed the different characters.
This was a delightful and entertaining story. I even chuckled a few times, especially when Aunt Cecilia spoke to Elinor’s horrible uncle with frankness and sass. I almost laughed out loud when she told him he wouldn’t want to go to church with them so the church wouldn’t get struck by lightning. I would have liked more sizzling kissing moments, though, and the irregular marriage thing didn’t sit well with me, even though it was a real thing. I wanted a traditional wedding. But I still loved it and enjoyed the different characters.
January 4, 2025
The story premise was good, but I wasn't a fan of the writing style. The dialogue was a little bland, too many modern colloquialisms, and not enough character and relationship development. It's part of a Christmas series, though the story just happened to take place and Christmas, and Christmas didn't have any major part of the story.
November 9, 2025
Acharming quaint quick interesting story. Liked the setting and characters. Will read more by her.
November 11, 2024
This was a quick read when I had time. Good storyline that kept your attention. Independent isn’t always meant to be.
December 23, 2024
Good story, poor execution
I am sad when I don’t like a book. The characters are not well developed. One cannot relate to them or understand their actions. There is too much unnecessary dialogue and some anachronistic phrases. So sad
I am sad when I don’t like a book. The characters are not well developed. One cannot relate to them or understand their actions. There is too much unnecessary dialogue and some anachronistic phrases. So sad
December 18, 2024
Oddly boring- especially since I’ve read several of her other books and enjoyed them. Lack of chemistry and purpose between the characters and Alden wasn’t someone I really thought deserved Elinor. I wanted to like this.
Read
December 17, 2024It was going swimmingly until, “you lied!” And now I am going to throw a temper tantrum like a toddler, run from the room, and not be logical or listen to any one.
My very least favorite plot.
My very least favorite plot.
November 11, 2024
A charming Christmas regency romance! I really enjoyed the dynamic between Elinor and Alden! The push and pull between their personalities was fantastic!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
December 26, 2024
sweet, period romance
Romance, sweet, period; series but stand alone read p
Alden and Elinor’s story was a forced interaction due to Alden’s aunt, Lady Elinor. The general premise of the story was fine. Just found the dialogue and general writing not as engaging, this novel had multiple instances of contemporary word usage, and was more stilted in general flow and composition. Still a fun series.
Romance, sweet, period; series but stand alone read p
Alden and Elinor’s story was a forced interaction due to Alden’s aunt, Lady Elinor. The general premise of the story was fine. Just found the dialogue and general writing not as engaging, this novel had multiple instances of contemporary word usage, and was more stilted in general flow and composition. Still a fun series.
June 11, 2025
Cute story, audiobook narration was pretty good. I was slightly annoyed by some of the narrator's pronunciations, but it wasn't enough to make me quit listening to the story. Some of the story dialogue seemed simple, but the overall flow of the book kept me interested to stay to see what might happen next.
November 11, 2024
This is part of an awesome series, Regency Christmas Brides. Each book can be read as a stand alone story in this multi author series. It is such a fun series and I have enjoyed reading three of the four books so far. There are four cousins who are asked to show up at a Solicitor's officer. They have no idea why they are there and are surprised when they find out that their Aunt Edith is dying and has a letter for each one of them. All of their letters require them to fulfill her instructions by Twelfth Night which is just a short time away. If the instructions are fulfilled they will each receive an inheritance.
All of them thought their Aunt Edith was a little eccentric, but she had a very happy marriage which she wanted each one of her relatives to experience for themself. So bribing each one individually with exactly what they needed or desired is how she set them up to fall in love.
This is the story of Mr. Alden Dandridge whose older brother, the heir is always talking down to him. Alden being a second son has to prove himself and he desires to show his family that he can become something important. His aunt's instructions have him traveling to Scotland to a thriving horse farm which can be his, if he can find a bride before Twelfth Night. His plans is a marriage of convenience even though his aunt wants him to find a love match. He also plans on selling the horse farm after receiving the inheritance to purchase land in England. He didn't plan on the woman who is currently running the farm Miss Elinor Sidney.
Miss Elinor Sidney has been successfully running the horse farm for the past two years. This has become a haven for her as she is hiding from her uncle who is also her guardian. He tried to marry her off to a man who could have been her grandfather. Edith had come to her rescue and settled her in Scotland taking care of her horse farm. If she can find a way to stop Mr Dandridge from finding a bride, she will legally receive the horse farm. She offers to help Alden find a bride from the local area but she actually is trying to thwart him.
There's a lot of humor in this story as Alden get to meet 3 prospective brides. If he could just get Miss Sidney to agree to marry him but she is determined to marry for love.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
All of them thought their Aunt Edith was a little eccentric, but she had a very happy marriage which she wanted each one of her relatives to experience for themself. So bribing each one individually with exactly what they needed or desired is how she set them up to fall in love.
This is the story of Mr. Alden Dandridge whose older brother, the heir is always talking down to him. Alden being a second son has to prove himself and he desires to show his family that he can become something important. His aunt's instructions have him traveling to Scotland to a thriving horse farm which can be his, if he can find a bride before Twelfth Night. His plans is a marriage of convenience even though his aunt wants him to find a love match. He also plans on selling the horse farm after receiving the inheritance to purchase land in England. He didn't plan on the woman who is currently running the farm Miss Elinor Sidney.
Miss Elinor Sidney has been successfully running the horse farm for the past two years. This has become a haven for her as she is hiding from her uncle who is also her guardian. He tried to marry her off to a man who could have been her grandfather. Edith had come to her rescue and settled her in Scotland taking care of her horse farm. If she can find a way to stop Mr Dandridge from finding a bride, she will legally receive the horse farm. She offers to help Alden find a bride from the local area but she actually is trying to thwart him.
There's a lot of humor in this story as Alden get to meet 3 prospective brides. If he could just get Miss Sidney to agree to marry him but she is determined to marry for love.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
November 13, 2024
If you are dreaming of a white Christmas, then get transported to Scotland, where Aldan has discovered he is to inherit a horse farm from his dying great-aunt, and the only obstacle in his way is a marriage to someone in the village by Twelfth Night. The obstacle has a name, though... and her name is Elinor. She gets the horse farm if Aldan fails, and it is in her best interest if he does. She enlists the aid of her "spooky" aunt to dissuade Aldan from his course... every book should have a hilarious aunt, in my opinion!
So ensues Elinor "helping" Aldan to find a village wife. Who should he marry? The widow with a zillion kids, and makes no secret how much she despies them? The daughter of a Laird who would prefer to dress as a man to attend physics lectures and offers just one heir? Or perhaps the young woman with ailments too many to name, and who has an education that exceeds decorum? Every village visit leads to a hilarious exchange!!
No, only Elinor will do, and these two going back and forth, toeing the fine line between love and hate, but sizzling with attraction, are so much fun to witness. Their partial truce allows actual friendship and healing, leading the way to unexpected love. When the vicious uncle shows up, changing everyone's plans, the story takes an unplanned turn, but it is everything a reader could hope for. My favorite dialogue in the story flows out of this event, and one of the swooniest quotes I've had the pleasure to read: “I want a real marriage, one where I can kiss you whenever I want.” 😘
I loved this shorter swoony read, and I'm hopeful Aunt Edith's dictates mean there are more stories like this one to come!
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
So ensues Elinor "helping" Aldan to find a village wife. Who should he marry? The widow with a zillion kids, and makes no secret how much she despies them? The daughter of a Laird who would prefer to dress as a man to attend physics lectures and offers just one heir? Or perhaps the young woman with ailments too many to name, and who has an education that exceeds decorum? Every village visit leads to a hilarious exchange!!
No, only Elinor will do, and these two going back and forth, toeing the fine line between love and hate, but sizzling with attraction, are so much fun to witness. Their partial truce allows actual friendship and healing, leading the way to unexpected love. When the vicious uncle shows up, changing everyone's plans, the story takes an unplanned turn, but it is everything a reader could hope for. My favorite dialogue in the story flows out of this event, and one of the swooniest quotes I've had the pleasure to read: “I want a real marriage, one where I can kiss you whenever I want.” 😘
I loved this shorter swoony read, and I'm hopeful Aunt Edith's dictates mean there are more stories like this one to come!
I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
November 12, 2024
I absolutely adore Laura Beers books and this is no exception. Ever since I discovered the Beckett Files, I've been trying to read them all. This book is part of an adorable series Regency Christmas Brides, but they can all be read as a stand alone book too. I love that although this is a Christmasy story, it isn't super heavy on it.
All that poor Alden (the 2nd son) wants is to inherit a horse farm, but Elinor also wants the horse farm she's been running. He gets it, if he marries by Twelfth night. She gets if Alden doesn't marry. He thinks a marriage of convenience is the way to go, with Elinor's help. She thinks pretending to help him will give her the farm because she won't actually help.
I loved the crazy aunts and I loved the banter in this book. Elinor is a strong woman and is not going to go down without a fight. She can stand on her own 2 feet, which is why she wants the horse farm so badly. She isn't afraid to put Alden in his place. Alden (who is quite confident and cocky) meets 3 prospective ladies (humor ensues)...but all he wants is for Elinor to forgo her idea of love and just marry him. I love how Alden and Elinor's friendship starts to change their thoughts and opinions of one another.
Marriage or almost marriage of convenience is my favorite, along with enemies to more and this book has it. Also..spiders....big ones...HA!
Thank you Laura for letting me read this book early, all my opinions are my own.
All that poor Alden (the 2nd son) wants is to inherit a horse farm, but Elinor also wants the horse farm she's been running. He gets it, if he marries by Twelfth night. She gets if Alden doesn't marry. He thinks a marriage of convenience is the way to go, with Elinor's help. She thinks pretending to help him will give her the farm because she won't actually help.
I loved the crazy aunts and I loved the banter in this book. Elinor is a strong woman and is not going to go down without a fight. She can stand on her own 2 feet, which is why she wants the horse farm so badly. She isn't afraid to put Alden in his place. Alden (who is quite confident and cocky) meets 3 prospective ladies (humor ensues)...but all he wants is for Elinor to forgo her idea of love and just marry him. I love how Alden and Elinor's friendship starts to change their thoughts and opinions of one another.
Marriage or almost marriage of convenience is my favorite, along with enemies to more and this book has it. Also..spiders....big ones...HA!
Thank you Laura for letting me read this book early, all my opinions are my own.
January 10, 2025
This was a very dissapointing read. I will preface this with the knowledge that I have read a lot. I also really enjoyed the first book.
There are many problems with this story. First, I was not transported. With a setting like Scotland, the author really missed an opportunity. The setting of Christmas was also missed and any time anything important happened, I didn't really feel anything. Everything seemed tacked on rather than a convincing story. Most of the book is dialogue between two of the most annoying characters.
Alden: self-centered, immature to the extreme. Very unlikeable. Had a few moments of depth and then throws a tantrum and then magically, all fixed.
Elinor is the most disappointing, though. She's supposed to be an independent, successful, stable manager. That should come with a high degree of strength, intelligence, and wit. But we don't see her display hardly any of that. She sits in an office or pets a ponies nose feeding it apples. I've been around horses my whole life and that is definitely written by someone who has not been. Horses should not eat whole apples. Someone who runs a stable can never be totally distracted from it. It's ingrained in them. And then for her to cry and apologize to dick nose for her ruse when he was literally going to make her homeless... I'm just saying it's not love if you are only thinking of yourself.
1 star for the idea of the story, the other for the side characters.
There are many problems with this story. First, I was not transported. With a setting like Scotland, the author really missed an opportunity. The setting of Christmas was also missed and any time anything important happened, I didn't really feel anything. Everything seemed tacked on rather than a convincing story. Most of the book is dialogue between two of the most annoying characters.
Alden: self-centered, immature to the extreme. Very unlikeable. Had a few moments of depth and then throws a tantrum and then magically, all fixed.
Elinor is the most disappointing, though. She's supposed to be an independent, successful, stable manager. That should come with a high degree of strength, intelligence, and wit. But we don't see her display hardly any of that. She sits in an office or pets a ponies nose feeding it apples. I've been around horses my whole life and that is definitely written by someone who has not been. Horses should not eat whole apples. Someone who runs a stable can never be totally distracted from it. It's ingrained in them. And then for her to cry and apologize to dick nose for her ruse when he was literally going to make her homeless... I'm just saying it's not love if you are only thinking of yourself.
1 star for the idea of the story, the other for the side characters.
December 10, 2024
I found this book to be delightfully charming. I loved Alden and Elinor. Elinor’s scheming to keep Alden from marrying before Twelfth Night and Alden’s attempts to make her jealous were funny. I really loved how Alden helped Elinor in accepting parts of herself after grief. I loved that Elinor was able to help Alden understand it was okay to love.
Favorite Quotes:
Elinor pressed her lips together before saying, “I won’t marry you.” “Whyever not?” Mr. Dandridge asked. “It is the perfect solution for both of us.” “It may be a solution for you, but not for me,” Elinor said. “You seem to forget that I ran away from a marriage of convenience.” “Yes, but I would be a fair and generous husband.” Elinor shook her head. “I don’t want a ‘fair and generous’ husband,” she responded. “If I marry, it will be for love.” “Love?” Mr. Dandridge scoffed. “Not this again.” “You don’t seem to believe in love, but I do,” Elinor declared. “And you would be the last man I would ever consider marrying.”
“You are a muttonhead,” Elinor said. He grinned. “A muttonhead?” he asked. “Does your aunt know that you use such foul language?” “In this case, I think she would encourage me to do so,” Elinor responded.
Favorite Quotes:
Elinor pressed her lips together before saying, “I won’t marry you.” “Whyever not?” Mr. Dandridge asked. “It is the perfect solution for both of us.” “It may be a solution for you, but not for me,” Elinor said. “You seem to forget that I ran away from a marriage of convenience.” “Yes, but I would be a fair and generous husband.” Elinor shook her head. “I don’t want a ‘fair and generous’ husband,” she responded. “If I marry, it will be for love.” “Love?” Mr. Dandridge scoffed. “Not this again.” “You don’t seem to believe in love, but I do,” Elinor declared. “And you would be the last man I would ever consider marrying.”
“You are a muttonhead,” Elinor said. He grinned. “A muttonhead?” he asked. “Does your aunt know that you use such foul language?” “In this case, I think she would encourage me to do so,” Elinor responded.
December 31, 2024
This was a sweet historical romance. I enjoyed the Scottish setting and getting to know Elinor and Alden.
Their love story is very sweet and surprising. They have obvious chemistry from their first meetings but they fight against their feelings for a long time. I love how they feel safe and content with each other. And how Alden saves Elinor from her uncle’s horrible plan to force her to do as he wants. Seeing their marriage of convenience quickly become a love match was so lovely.
I enjoyed the Scottish customs and details from the Scottish food to the accents and marriage details. Also enjoyed seeing the ridiculous women Elinor introduces Alden to and his intense reactions to spiders. And Elinor’s aunt playing the bagpipes!!
The Christmas setting was also lovely as Alden and Elinor find new love and happiness in the holiday season. They have both had difficult holiday memories and I liked seeing them overcome those and seek to make happier memories together.
At times, the writing and dialogue felt more modern than historical and that broke the magic of the story for me. But overall, a lovely story. Can’t wait to continue in this series!
Their love story is very sweet and surprising. They have obvious chemistry from their first meetings but they fight against their feelings for a long time. I love how they feel safe and content with each other. And how Alden saves Elinor from her uncle’s horrible plan to force her to do as he wants. Seeing their marriage of convenience quickly become a love match was so lovely.
I enjoyed the Scottish customs and details from the Scottish food to the accents and marriage details. Also enjoyed seeing the ridiculous women Elinor introduces Alden to and his intense reactions to spiders. And Elinor’s aunt playing the bagpipes!!
The Christmas setting was also lovely as Alden and Elinor find new love and happiness in the holiday season. They have both had difficult holiday memories and I liked seeing them overcome those and seek to make happier memories together.
At times, the writing and dialogue felt more modern than historical and that broke the magic of the story for me. But overall, a lovely story. Can’t wait to continue in this series!
May 9, 2025
This is the second Regency Christmas Brides novella I have read. It was lighthearted and cute, quick and easy read. If you like sweet and clean Regency Romances set during Christmas time, then you might enjoy it.
Alden’s great-aunt sends a letter to him when she is gravely ill that he is to inherit a profitable horse farm in Scotland if he marries for love by Twelfth Night.
This horse farm is run by Elinor and she receives a letter that if the nephew doesn’t marry by Twelfth Night, then the horse farm is hers. So, she schemes to prevent that for ever happening.
Thus, the fun starts. For such a short book, the characters of the hero and heroine are well defined, as well as Elinor’s crazy aunt. However, the twist that occurs was somewhat predictable, and the solution too convenient, but it had to be in order for this book to work.
I read it one day because it was enjoyable, especially the dialogue, up until the end. Then it got saccharin sweet. I almost needed an insulin shot.
I give this 3***½*
Alden’s great-aunt sends a letter to him when she is gravely ill that he is to inherit a profitable horse farm in Scotland if he marries for love by Twelfth Night.
This horse farm is run by Elinor and she receives a letter that if the nephew doesn’t marry by Twelfth Night, then the horse farm is hers. So, she schemes to prevent that for ever happening.
Thus, the fun starts. For such a short book, the characters of the hero and heroine are well defined, as well as Elinor’s crazy aunt. However, the twist that occurs was somewhat predictable, and the solution too convenient, but it had to be in order for this book to work.
I read it one day because it was enjoyable, especially the dialogue, up until the end. Then it got saccharin sweet. I almost needed an insulin shot.
I give this 3***½*
September 2, 2025
Genre: Historical Holiday Romance
Rating: 4.25 /5 ⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼
Summary: Alden is set to inherit a horse farm in Scotland from his quirky aunt but he must be married, and quickly. He heads off to check out the estate and meets Elinor who has been successfully running it for the past couple of years. She agrees to help him find a bride but secretly plans to sabotage it so she doesn’t lose her pride and joy to this newcomer.
Thoughts: I thoroughly enjoyed this one! It really balanced between swoony moments and witty banter. The background characters really warmed the story without ever making it feel overwhelming or hard to follow. There were so many hilarious little shenanigans sprinkled in at just the right times, which made it a really entertaining read.
There were a few spots that felt a bit repetitive, and a couple moments where it almost seemed like a paragraph or two had gone missing and it felt disconnected.
But overall, this is such a strong historical romance. If you love charming chaos, great chemistry, and a lovable cast, it’s definitely worth picking up.
Rating: 4.25 /5 ⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼
Summary: Alden is set to inherit a horse farm in Scotland from his quirky aunt but he must be married, and quickly. He heads off to check out the estate and meets Elinor who has been successfully running it for the past couple of years. She agrees to help him find a bride but secretly plans to sabotage it so she doesn’t lose her pride and joy to this newcomer.
Thoughts: I thoroughly enjoyed this one! It really balanced between swoony moments and witty banter. The background characters really warmed the story without ever making it feel overwhelming or hard to follow. There were so many hilarious little shenanigans sprinkled in at just the right times, which made it a really entertaining read.
There were a few spots that felt a bit repetitive, and a couple moments where it almost seemed like a paragraph or two had gone missing and it felt disconnected.
But overall, this is such a strong historical romance. If you love charming chaos, great chemistry, and a lovable cast, it’s definitely worth picking up.
January 2, 2025
4.5*
Alden and Elinor are fun characters, and there are several side characters that I also enjoyed. Overall, I found the plot unique. I enjoyed the Scottish setting, and the everything felt conclusive. So, I have no issues with the plot itself and did want the MCs to get their HEA.
There were a few peculiarities that pulled me out of the story, though. The frequent use of modern phrases was one, and something about the way the dialogue was written just didn't allow me to connect to the characters as well as I usually do. This is likely a me issue, however. Some of the characteristics of the MCs seemed contradictory at times. There is a third act break up as well. I typically don't mind those, but this one felt a little...overly dramatic? I'm not sure XD I do appreciate that it wasn't drawn out and the characters were able to resolve things quickly.
A good read. Just a bit rough around the edges perhaps
Alden and Elinor are fun characters, and there are several side characters that I also enjoyed. Overall, I found the plot unique. I enjoyed the Scottish setting, and the everything felt conclusive. So, I have no issues with the plot itself and did want the MCs to get their HEA.
There were a few peculiarities that pulled me out of the story, though. The frequent use of modern phrases was one, and something about the way the dialogue was written just didn't allow me to connect to the characters as well as I usually do. This is likely a me issue, however. Some of the characteristics of the MCs seemed contradictory at times. There is a third act break up as well. I typically don't mind those, but this one felt a little...overly dramatic? I'm not sure XD I do appreciate that it wasn't drawn out and the characters were able to resolve things quickly.
A good read. Just a bit rough around the edges perhaps
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews