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Southern Stars #.5
One Night before Christmas
One night with a scarred stranger for a million pounds. What would you do?
This Christmas, I’m a modern-day Bob Cratchit, struggling to keep food on the table and a roof over the head of my disabled daughter, Immi. With bills piling up, holiday gifts and a festive dinner are an impossible dream.
Then a last-minute kitchen job at Midnight in Mayfair, an exclusive London nightclub, changes everything. When I help an injured dancer, I catch the eye of the club's owner, Te Ariki tall, Māori, rich, scarred, and extremely intimidating. He suggests I fill in for her. I’m ready to refuse—until I realize how much it pays.
After watching my performance, Te Ariki offers me another five thousand pounds for a private dance. Desperation wins, and I can’t resist. Then he asks me to return the next evening. Night after night, I find myself dancing just for him, gradually glimpsing the man beneath the scars.
Then he makes an unthinkable one million pounds for a single night together, with two conditions—he’ll blindfold me, and I must agree to be restrained. I’m terrified, but the money could change everything for Immi and me.
I don’t expect to fall for him. But after that night, Te Ariki expects me to walk away. What happens when Beauty can’t leave her Beast?
This Christmas, I’m a modern-day Bob Cratchit, struggling to keep food on the table and a roof over the head of my disabled daughter, Immi. With bills piling up, holiday gifts and a festive dinner are an impossible dream.
Then a last-minute kitchen job at Midnight in Mayfair, an exclusive London nightclub, changes everything. When I help an injured dancer, I catch the eye of the club's owner, Te Ariki tall, Māori, rich, scarred, and extremely intimidating. He suggests I fill in for her. I’m ready to refuse—until I realize how much it pays.
After watching my performance, Te Ariki offers me another five thousand pounds for a private dance. Desperation wins, and I can’t resist. Then he asks me to return the next evening. Night after night, I find myself dancing just for him, gradually glimpsing the man beneath the scars.
Then he makes an unthinkable one million pounds for a single night together, with two conditions—he’ll blindfold me, and I must agree to be restrained. I’m terrified, but the money could change everything for Immi and me.
I don’t expect to fall for him. But after that night, Te Ariki expects me to walk away. What happens when Beauty can’t leave her Beast?
122 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2024
1402 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Serenity Woods
171 books918 followersUSA Today bestselling author Serenity Woods writes feel-good romances full of friends, family, and falling in love. Most of her stories are set in Godzone, aka Aotearoa New Zealand, where she lives.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
December 6, 2025
Nice cute story. Modern version of Beauty and the Beast.
This is a quick read with two nice main characters.
Poor widow meets lonely man in a mask. Both have a sad past.
This is a quick read with two nice main characters.
Poor widow meets lonely man in a mask. Both have a sad past.
December 16, 2024
3.5 Stars - Quick Christmas novella to get you a bit of steamy romance for the holiday. Situational billionaire romance with interesting characters and pretty well-developed for the short read. It was sweet too!
December 9, 2024
Indecent proposal
Omg indecent proposal with a modern Christmas twist and a proposal that makes your mind race and your knees week.
Omg indecent proposal with a modern Christmas twist and a proposal that makes your mind race and your knees week.
May 4, 2025
I liked this the writing and storyline was great! I wish it would have been longer.
December 8, 2024
One Night Before Christmas
Serenity Woods
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I think if I could, I would give this story a million stars. You just know when a story reels you in on that first page and as it progresses, those turning tummy feels happen and there’s a connection, you’ve found it! One Night Before Christmas, is this book!
Set in a beauty and the beast style, Serenity has created a beautiful story of grief, fear, devastation, loss, recollection, trust and love. I’ve always loved her writing styles, but I think this might be my all time favourite, and possibly story of the year for me!
As Te Ariki, a wealthy businessman moves in with his hermit life after an accident that severely burned him, he’s is taken by a young woman coming to work in his club, she gorgeous with long blonde hair, quickly becoming his angel. Astrid loves Christmas, but as a widow, with a disabled daughter, living with her Mum and working multiple jobs to make ends meet, she finds herself taking a job dancing in the exclusive club.
When called by the boss, he asks her to dance for him, it becomes a nightly thing, then he asks for one night with her…. But it comes with conditions, it’s an offer she can’t refuse. A million pounds, one night. That’s life changing for Astrid and her family. What she discovers is a man with so much passion and love, but his scars hold him back. When Astrid makes a huge mistake she sees another side to Te Ariki, but in her sweet wholesome way knows he’s just reacting.
One night, one mistake, will Te Ariki lose the best thing he’s ever known? Love lasting love and a forever he definitely deserves.
Serenity Woods
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I think if I could, I would give this story a million stars. You just know when a story reels you in on that first page and as it progresses, those turning tummy feels happen and there’s a connection, you’ve found it! One Night Before Christmas, is this book!
Set in a beauty and the beast style, Serenity has created a beautiful story of grief, fear, devastation, loss, recollection, trust and love. I’ve always loved her writing styles, but I think this might be my all time favourite, and possibly story of the year for me!
As Te Ariki, a wealthy businessman moves in with his hermit life after an accident that severely burned him, he’s is taken by a young woman coming to work in his club, she gorgeous with long blonde hair, quickly becoming his angel. Astrid loves Christmas, but as a widow, with a disabled daughter, living with her Mum and working multiple jobs to make ends meet, she finds herself taking a job dancing in the exclusive club.
When called by the boss, he asks her to dance for him, it becomes a nightly thing, then he asks for one night with her…. But it comes with conditions, it’s an offer she can’t refuse. A million pounds, one night. That’s life changing for Astrid and her family. What she discovers is a man with so much passion and love, but his scars hold him back. When Astrid makes a huge mistake she sees another side to Te Ariki, but in her sweet wholesome way knows he’s just reacting.
One night, one mistake, will Te Ariki lose the best thing he’s ever known? Love lasting love and a forever he definitely deserves.
January 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.75/5)
Christmas romance | Cozy vibes
One Night Before Christmas by Serenity Woods is a light, entertaining holiday read that doesn’t try to be anything more than it is — and that’s exactly its strength.
This book fits perfectly into the holiday romance genre, with a touch of spice, but nothing over the top. The story is predictable, the situation is definitely unrealistic, and you more or less know where it’s going from the start — but honestly, that’s part of the charm.
If you’re looking for something easy to read, cozy, and fun, especially during the Christmas season, this book delivers. It has the right amount of festive atmosphere, a bit of heat, and a simple, fast-moving plot that makes it ideal for a relaxed evening read when you don’t want to think too much.
Overall, a pleasant, entertaining Christmas romance — perfect when you want comfort, not complexity.
Christmas romance | Cozy vibes
One Night Before Christmas by Serenity Woods is a light, entertaining holiday read that doesn’t try to be anything more than it is — and that’s exactly its strength.
This book fits perfectly into the holiday romance genre, with a touch of spice, but nothing over the top. The story is predictable, the situation is definitely unrealistic, and you more or less know where it’s going from the start — but honestly, that’s part of the charm.
If you’re looking for something easy to read, cozy, and fun, especially during the Christmas season, this book delivers. It has the right amount of festive atmosphere, a bit of heat, and a simple, fast-moving plot that makes it ideal for a relaxed evening read when you don’t want to think too much.
Overall, a pleasant, entertaining Christmas romance — perfect when you want comfort, not complexity.
December 2, 2024
Astrid is a widowed single mother, her daughter has spina bifida, her depressed husband committed suicide. Te Ariki is a philanthropic Maori billionaire and raises money for charity at the strip club he owns. (Don't ask, I don't know.) He is also a traumatized recluse who lost his brother in the same accident he got badly burned in. Which he blames himself for. To make things worse, he got vilified by the press, his looks horrified his ex, and he has father issues. Now, hiding his disfigurement behind masks and hoods, he considers himself a beast, and believes family and romantic relationships are no longer for him. But he is lonely and offers Astrid a fortune for one night with him. She is tempted but conflicted about prostituting herself, and a bit mad at him for asking that of her. But everyone she asks says go for it, including her mom. (Not a conversation I would ever have with my mom!)
For a steamy Christmas story this one is crammed pretty full of heavy issues and while I didn't find it very angsty despite all that I thought that a story of this length didn't need so many angst factors. His issues would have been quite enough for a novella. I would have left out the suicide, at least, as it was not really dealt with in any depth and in the end I had no idea how she had coped with all that it entails.
The epilogue sets up another book, in which a minor character will presumably go deal with his sick relative and meet an old crush.
For a steamy Christmas story this one is crammed pretty full of heavy issues and while I didn't find it very angsty despite all that I thought that a story of this length didn't need so many angst factors. His issues would have been quite enough for a novella. I would have left out the suicide, at least, as it was not really dealt with in any depth and in the end I had no idea how she had coped with all that it entails.
The epilogue sets up another book, in which a minor character will presumably go deal with his sick relative and meet an old crush.
December 19, 2024
E-book.
I liked how the characters and their struggles were written, the MMC with his physical and emotional scars, and the FMC with her finances and later her heart. A good amount of heat and a bit of Christmas spirit were mixed in.
I liked how the characters and their struggles were written, the MMC with his physical and emotional scars, and the FMC with her finances and later her heart. A good amount of heat and a bit of Christmas spirit were mixed in.
December 20, 2024
Good story
There is never a dull moment in this dark, melancholy romance ONE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. It is reminiscent of Phantom of the Opera with mutual romantic feelings and spice.
There is never a dull moment in this dark, melancholy romance ONE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. It is reminiscent of Phantom of the Opera with mutual romantic feelings and spice.
December 18, 2024
It was simple storyline, but it was very well written. I just wish I got more from Te Ariki's perspective.
Read
December 13, 2024Women selling their bodies for easy cash is soooo not my idea of a good romance.
It's a hard pass.
It's a hard pass.
December 31, 2024
This is a rather sweet story, a quick and easy read. I saw it is a modern version of Beauty and the Beast. Astrid Bergman is a young widow with a six year old daughter, Immi, who was born with Spina Bifida, so is in a wheelchair most of the time. Astrid works hard at any job she can get to pay the bills, and her mother lives with them to look after Immi while Astrid works, but there is little money left for extras. Astrid gets a last minute temp job to work in the kitchen at a night club, seven until midnight, for ten pounds an hour. There is a bug going round, and they are short-handed. While she is talking to the manageress about what she will be doing, one of the dancers comes downstairs the stairs from the nightclub, and trips. Astrid rushes forward and catches her, but they both fall to the floor, and the dancer twists her ankle. Astrid mentions she had taken lessons in pole dancing, but would never manage it in such high heels, and the manageress immediately suggests she dances instead, and would be paid £100 an hour. There is no contest, an opportunity she cannot afford to miss with Christmas coming. She notices the owner in his office, part of his face is covered by a mask, she assumes he has a disfigurement as he pulls his chair back into the shadow. She gets an outfit to wear, but refuses shoes, and begins her evening, watched by the owner, his name is Te Ariki Thompson, and he is sitting in a private booth. They talk in her breaks, and he asks her if she will perform a lap-dance for him, he will pay her £5000. Again, an offer she cannot afford to miss. When she goes home that night her bank account has £5,500 in it, so much more than the £50 she was expecting! And she has been offered the dancing job for the rest of the week. And so their story begins.
Every evening they get to know each other a little better, and Astrid’s bank account gets very healthy. Inevitably they fall out, and it will have to be him repairing their relationship, after a long chat with his friend Linc Green, a fellow owner of the club who happens to be staying in his apartment on the top floor of the building.
Te Ariki does everything he can to repair their friendship. Astrid is a very forgiving person, and he and Linc are invited to a Christmas celebration at Astrid’s friend Cora’s house. It is clear this will be a relationship that lasts. This is a very emotional story, and a most enjoyable read on a lazy afternoon. It definitely has the ‘aah’factor.
I received a copy of this story from the author and am delighted to write an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Every evening they get to know each other a little better, and Astrid’s bank account gets very healthy. Inevitably they fall out, and it will have to be him repairing their relationship, after a long chat with his friend Linc Green, a fellow owner of the club who happens to be staying in his apartment on the top floor of the building.
Te Ariki does everything he can to repair their friendship. Astrid is a very forgiving person, and he and Linc are invited to a Christmas celebration at Astrid’s friend Cora’s house. It is clear this will be a relationship that lasts. This is a very emotional story, and a most enjoyable read on a lazy afternoon. It definitely has the ‘aah’factor.
I received a copy of this story from the author and am delighted to write an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
December 8, 2024
FREE today (December 7, 2024) on Amazon.
December 2, 2024
What a lovely feelgood factor Christmas book from Serenity Woods, this short story has real "Beauty and the Beast" connotations'
The lives of Astrid Bergman and Te Ariki Thompson couldn't be more different, Astrid was a young widow with a disabled, wheelchair bound daughter, Immi, she was working numerous jobs trying to make ends meet, Astrid's mother was a great help looking after Immi but Christmas was going to be bleak this year.
Te Ariki was a multi millionaire, he was part owner of a high class club in London, once Te Ariki had been drooled over by beautiful women, a plane crash one year ago killed his brother and left Te Ariki with what he thought were hideous scars, he had deep seated repulsion of his scared body and guilt for his brother's death.
Te Ariki was now a recluse, hiding in the shadows of his club, hiding his face. and seeing only his close childhood friends.
Astrid turned up at the club for a week working in the kitchen but when one of the dancers falls and injures her ankle, with much trepidation, Astrid agreed to take her place, she would risk the humiliation because the money was much better, she could make Christmas better for Immie and her mum.
Astrid wasn't as thin or accomplished as the other dancers but she had something special that drew Te Ariki to her.
This story follows the blossoming love between Astrid and Te Ariki, what could a handsome, wealthy man like Te Ariki see in a struggling single parent ? what could a beautiful, golden haired woman see in grumpy, scared Te Ariki, they have hurdles to climb but in usual Serenity Woods fashion they do it with brilliant banter, emotion and passion.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
The lives of Astrid Bergman and Te Ariki Thompson couldn't be more different, Astrid was a young widow with a disabled, wheelchair bound daughter, Immi, she was working numerous jobs trying to make ends meet, Astrid's mother was a great help looking after Immi but Christmas was going to be bleak this year.
Te Ariki was a multi millionaire, he was part owner of a high class club in London, once Te Ariki had been drooled over by beautiful women, a plane crash one year ago killed his brother and left Te Ariki with what he thought were hideous scars, he had deep seated repulsion of his scared body and guilt for his brother's death.
Te Ariki was now a recluse, hiding in the shadows of his club, hiding his face. and seeing only his close childhood friends.
Astrid turned up at the club for a week working in the kitchen but when one of the dancers falls and injures her ankle, with much trepidation, Astrid agreed to take her place, she would risk the humiliation because the money was much better, she could make Christmas better for Immie and her mum.
Astrid wasn't as thin or accomplished as the other dancers but she had something special that drew Te Ariki to her.
This story follows the blossoming love between Astrid and Te Ariki, what could a handsome, wealthy man like Te Ariki see in a struggling single parent ? what could a beautiful, golden haired woman see in grumpy, scared Te Ariki, they have hurdles to climb but in usual Serenity Woods fashion they do it with brilliant banter, emotion and passion.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
January 10, 2025
What a delightful feel-good Christmas book from Serenity Woods! This short story has the real "Beauty and the Beast"
undertones.
The lives of Astrid Bergman and Te Ariki Thompson couldn't be more different. Astrid is a young widow with a disabled, wheelchair-bound daughter, Immi. She juggles multiple jobs to make ends meet, with her mother providing valuable support in caring for Immi. However, this Christmas is shaping up to be particularly bleak.
In contrast, Te Ariki is a multi-millionaire and part owner of an upscale club in London. Previously admired by beautiful women, he was left scarred—both physically and emotionally—by a plane crash that killed his brother one year ago. Haunted by his appearance and burdened by guilt over his brother's death, Te Ariki has become a recluse, hiding in the shadows of his club and only interacting with a few close childhood friends.
When Astrid arrives at the club to work in the kitchen for a week, instead she ends up taking the place of a dancer who has injured her ankle. Despite her trepidation and the potential for humiliation, she takes the risk because the pay is significantly better, which would help make Christmas brighter for Immi and her mother.
Although Astrid is not as slender or polished as the other dancers, she possesses a unique charm that captivates Te Ariki.
This story explores the blossoming love between Astrid and Te Ariki. What could a handsome, wealthy man like Te Ariki see in a struggling single parent? And what could a beautiful, golden-haired woman find appealing in the grumpy, scarred Te Ariki? As they navigate their challenges, they do so with brilliant banter, emotion, and passion I would like to see more of them.
undertones.
The lives of Astrid Bergman and Te Ariki Thompson couldn't be more different. Astrid is a young widow with a disabled, wheelchair-bound daughter, Immi. She juggles multiple jobs to make ends meet, with her mother providing valuable support in caring for Immi. However, this Christmas is shaping up to be particularly bleak.
In contrast, Te Ariki is a multi-millionaire and part owner of an upscale club in London. Previously admired by beautiful women, he was left scarred—both physically and emotionally—by a plane crash that killed his brother one year ago. Haunted by his appearance and burdened by guilt over his brother's death, Te Ariki has become a recluse, hiding in the shadows of his club and only interacting with a few close childhood friends.
When Astrid arrives at the club to work in the kitchen for a week, instead she ends up taking the place of a dancer who has injured her ankle. Despite her trepidation and the potential for humiliation, she takes the risk because the pay is significantly better, which would help make Christmas brighter for Immi and her mother.
Although Astrid is not as slender or polished as the other dancers, she possesses a unique charm that captivates Te Ariki.
This story explores the blossoming love between Astrid and Te Ariki. What could a handsome, wealthy man like Te Ariki see in a struggling single parent? And what could a beautiful, golden-haired woman find appealing in the grumpy, scarred Te Ariki? As they navigate their challenges, they do so with brilliant banter, emotion, and passion I would like to see more of them.
December 4, 2024
One Night Before Christmas by Serenity Woods
What a wonderful Christmas novella this is ~ loved every sizzling thought provoking moment of it ~ this author ALWAYS writes books I want to reread!
What I liked:
* Astrid: widow, single mom, underpaid and overworked, positive, helpful, loving, kind, caring, good mother, loving daughter, beautiful in body and soul, perfect for and with Te Ariki
* Te Ariki: wealthy, business owner, philanthropist, bright, good friend, scarred in body and soul, survivor, grieving, conflicted, perfect for and with Astrid
* Immi: Astrid’s daughter, six years old, bright, fun, has physical challenges
* Hannah? Astrid’s mother, supportive, caring, wise, gives good advice
* Te Ariki’s partners in the Midnight Club: Lincoln Green who has his own book (Obsession Under the Southern Stars), and Orson Cavendish and Kingi Davis that I hope will show up in books of their own – all supportive, caring, wealthy, and no doubt wonderful people
* The meet-cute and romance that followed
* That Astric was able to see under Te Ariki’s gruff and scarred exterior to who he really was
* The communication – open, honest, and adult between the main characters and with their friends
* The sizzle and heat in and out of the bedroom
* All of it…loved it!
What I didn’t like:
* What both main characters had suffered in the past
* Thinking about how difficult it would be to be a single parent
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
What a wonderful Christmas novella this is ~ loved every sizzling thought provoking moment of it ~ this author ALWAYS writes books I want to reread!
What I liked:
* Astrid: widow, single mom, underpaid and overworked, positive, helpful, loving, kind, caring, good mother, loving daughter, beautiful in body and soul, perfect for and with Te Ariki
* Te Ariki: wealthy, business owner, philanthropist, bright, good friend, scarred in body and soul, survivor, grieving, conflicted, perfect for and with Astrid
* Immi: Astrid’s daughter, six years old, bright, fun, has physical challenges
* Hannah? Astrid’s mother, supportive, caring, wise, gives good advice
* Te Ariki’s partners in the Midnight Club: Lincoln Green who has his own book (Obsession Under the Southern Stars), and Orson Cavendish and Kingi Davis that I hope will show up in books of their own – all supportive, caring, wealthy, and no doubt wonderful people
* The meet-cute and romance that followed
* That Astric was able to see under Te Ariki’s gruff and scarred exterior to who he really was
* The communication – open, honest, and adult between the main characters and with their friends
* The sizzle and heat in and out of the bedroom
* All of it…loved it!
What I didn’t like:
* What both main characters had suffered in the past
* Thinking about how difficult it would be to be a single parent
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
December 15, 2024
She was just supposed to work the kitchen that night, in one of London's famed exclusive nightclubs. But as fate would have it, she instead works as a substitute stage dancer for the night. She then catches the eye of the nightclub's owner, who thereafter requests a private dance from her that is so well compensated. Beguiled by her, he eventually propositions her to stay the night with him. If she agrees, she gets a million pounds in return. So, does she accept? (If you were in her place, would you?)
Before starting this book, I had the expectation that this was going to be some kind of dark romance. Lo and behold, it actually is not! In fact, I found it to be such a sweet and romantic love story between a brooding, enigmatic billionaire - Te Ariki - and a sunny, strong-willed single mother, Astrid. Of course I was intrigued with the plot because it involved the proposition of sex in exchange for money. Our usual reaction would be to be appalled with that idea, but in this book, well, you just might realize that kind of reaction may not always be the case. You'd just have to read the book to understand why.
I truly loved how the main characters' story unfolded in this book. I loved the way Astrid was portrayed as a loving, devoted mother despite the difficult economic circumstances they faced as a family. It wasn't difficult to be enamored with Te Ariki, as well, as he turns out to be such a cinnamon roll. This book was indeed surprising in such a delightfully gratifying way, and I am beyond glad to have picked it up!
Before starting this book, I had the expectation that this was going to be some kind of dark romance. Lo and behold, it actually is not! In fact, I found it to be such a sweet and romantic love story between a brooding, enigmatic billionaire - Te Ariki - and a sunny, strong-willed single mother, Astrid. Of course I was intrigued with the plot because it involved the proposition of sex in exchange for money. Our usual reaction would be to be appalled with that idea, but in this book, well, you just might realize that kind of reaction may not always be the case. You'd just have to read the book to understand why.
I truly loved how the main characters' story unfolded in this book. I loved the way Astrid was portrayed as a loving, devoted mother despite the difficult economic circumstances they faced as a family. It wasn't difficult to be enamored with Te Ariki, as well, as he turns out to be such a cinnamon roll. This book was indeed surprising in such a delightfully gratifying way, and I am beyond glad to have picked it up!
December 15, 2024
One Night before Christmas by Serenity Woods is a wonderful holiday novella with a beauty and the beast basis featuring a down on her luck single mom and an injured reclusive billionaire. Astrid Bergman is a young widow with a wheelchair bound daughter, Immi, working numerous jobs trying to make ends meet, has her mom’s help and a strong extended family network.
Te Ariki Thompson is a billionaire, part owner of a high class club, who was good looking, until a plane crash completely changed his life. He is guilt-ridden over his brother’s death, disgusted with his disfigured looks, so he has become a recluse, hiding in the shadows of his club, hiding his face, and seeing only his close childhood friends.
Astrid turned up at the club for a week working in the kitchen but when one of the dancers falls and injures her ankle, asked to take her place, Astrid agrees as she would risk the humiliation since the money was much better; allowing her to make Christmas better for Immi and her mum.
Astrid wasn't as thin or accomplished as the other dancers but she had something special that drew Te Ariki to her; chemistry or the fact that Astrid did not fear him.
What follows is an unexpected love growing between Astrid and Te Ariki. She wondered what a handsome, wealthy man like Te Ariki saw in a struggling single parent. While he wondered what a beautiful, golden haired woman saw in grumpy, reclusive, scared Te Ariki. Though they have obstacles to overcome, they do it with the perfect balance of acceptance, friendship, family, love, and sensuality. It was good to see Linc Green in this prelude to Seduction Under the Southern Stars and meet his friends Te Ariki, Kingi and Orson who I hope to see in a future series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy prior to purchasing it.
Te Ariki Thompson is a billionaire, part owner of a high class club, who was good looking, until a plane crash completely changed his life. He is guilt-ridden over his brother’s death, disgusted with his disfigured looks, so he has become a recluse, hiding in the shadows of his club, hiding his face, and seeing only his close childhood friends.
Astrid turned up at the club for a week working in the kitchen but when one of the dancers falls and injures her ankle, asked to take her place, Astrid agrees as she would risk the humiliation since the money was much better; allowing her to make Christmas better for Immi and her mum.
Astrid wasn't as thin or accomplished as the other dancers but she had something special that drew Te Ariki to her; chemistry or the fact that Astrid did not fear him.
What follows is an unexpected love growing between Astrid and Te Ariki. She wondered what a handsome, wealthy man like Te Ariki saw in a struggling single parent. While he wondered what a beautiful, golden haired woman saw in grumpy, reclusive, scared Te Ariki. Though they have obstacles to overcome, they do it with the perfect balance of acceptance, friendship, family, love, and sensuality. It was good to see Linc Green in this prelude to Seduction Under the Southern Stars and meet his friends Te Ariki, Kingi and Orson who I hope to see in a future series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy prior to purchasing it.
December 9, 2024
If you love Christmas romances look no further than One Night Before Christmas because this a magical very special read. This is single mum Astrid and Mayfair club owner Te Ariki Thompson’s emotional and entertaining story.
When Astrid turns up at the club for one nights work in the kitchen she catches a dancer who has fallen down the stairs and that from this moment on her life is about to change….she just doesn’t know it.
Dancing in a nightclub is not her ideal job but when club owner Te Ariki offers her a job with a salary she can’t refuse she knows this money will help her disabled daughter Immi. What follows is a heartbreaking and heartwarming journey as Astrid gets to know the man behind the mask.
This story has so much depth, it’s full of love, passion, friendship, empathy and more importantly it’s well written with wonderful characters. I’m used to this author taking me on a journey through New Zealand but this time she took me to Mayfair, London and once again she captivated me as I watched a Christmas miracle unfold. Another wonderful read from the very talented Ms Serenity Woods.
When Astrid turns up at the club for one nights work in the kitchen she catches a dancer who has fallen down the stairs and that from this moment on her life is about to change….she just doesn’t know it.
Dancing in a nightclub is not her ideal job but when club owner Te Ariki offers her a job with a salary she can’t refuse she knows this money will help her disabled daughter Immi. What follows is a heartbreaking and heartwarming journey as Astrid gets to know the man behind the mask.
This story has so much depth, it’s full of love, passion, friendship, empathy and more importantly it’s well written with wonderful characters. I’m used to this author taking me on a journey through New Zealand but this time she took me to Mayfair, London and once again she captivated me as I watched a Christmas miracle unfold. Another wonderful read from the very talented Ms Serenity Woods.
December 2, 2024
Does money really buy happiness? Te Ariki Thompson is a millionaire who was good looking, smart and too cocky for his own good until a plane crash changed his life profoundly. Now he is guilt-ridden, abhorrent of his own looks and only has his close friends/business partners. Astrid Bergman is a young widow with a handicapped daughter named Immi, just making ends meet with her mom’s help but has a strong extended family network.
What makes two people be drawn to each other? How can a temp job lead to a change in both their lives? This novella allows the reader to look at two people from very different socio-economic and family structures and see who is really “richer.”
The book combines the two extremes to find the perfect balance of acceptance, friendship, family, love, and sensuality. It was good to see Linc Green in the prelude to Seduction Under the Southern Stars and meet his friends Te Ariki, Kingi and Orson who I hope to see in a future series. The perfect Serenity Woods book!
What makes two people be drawn to each other? How can a temp job lead to a change in both their lives? This novella allows the reader to look at two people from very different socio-economic and family structures and see who is really “richer.”
The book combines the two extremes to find the perfect balance of acceptance, friendship, family, love, and sensuality. It was good to see Linc Green in the prelude to Seduction Under the Southern Stars and meet his friends Te Ariki, Kingi and Orson who I hope to see in a future series. The perfect Serenity Woods book!
December 4, 2024
This is the best Beauty and the Beast retelling I've read.
Te Ariki and Astrid needed a Christmas miracle as they were both struggling.
Te Ariki was a handsome and arrogant playboy until he became disfigured in a plane crash. He then became a lonely recluse.
"We're worlds apart, and we have nothing in common. So why does she fascinate me?"
Astrid is a lithe single mother working multiple jobs who lost her husband in terrible circumstances.
"There could never be anything between us. We're like planets in the solar system, circling the sun but never meeting each other, existing in different orbits."
They meet at his nightclub when she accepts a temping job in the club kitchen.
This story is moving and sensual. They both have friends and/or family supporting them and Linc - from the first book in the Southern Stars trilogy - plays a pivotal role in this story.
I loved this book, I read it in a day and although it's a standalone, it's also a perfect introduction to the series.
Te Ariki and Astrid needed a Christmas miracle as they were both struggling.
Te Ariki was a handsome and arrogant playboy until he became disfigured in a plane crash. He then became a lonely recluse.
"We're worlds apart, and we have nothing in common. So why does she fascinate me?"
Astrid is a lithe single mother working multiple jobs who lost her husband in terrible circumstances.
"There could never be anything between us. We're like planets in the solar system, circling the sun but never meeting each other, existing in different orbits."
They meet at his nightclub when she accepts a temping job in the club kitchen.
This story is moving and sensual. They both have friends and/or family supporting them and Linc - from the first book in the Southern Stars trilogy - plays a pivotal role in this story.
I loved this book, I read it in a day and although it's a standalone, it's also a perfect introduction to the series.
December 19, 2024
Never judge a book by its cover.
Astrid is a young single mom, trying to make ends meet, and agrees to pick up a shift at very elusive club “Midnight in Mayfair”. Originally expecting to work in the kitchen she received an amazing offer to work as a dancer to replace a last minute accident.
Unknowingly catching the eye of its owner Te Ariki. Still reeling from a horrible accident that caused major burns to himself and the loss of his brother. He sits in the shadows deeming himself unloveable by any female.
Astride is also entranced by the masked man sitting in front of her. Everything she does is for her disabled daughter. She has learned throughout the years never to judge a book by its cover. So as the week goes on and the payments go up, she doesn’t hesitate to say yes. To be able to spend more time with him.
As, there 1st date draws near, will the ghosts of their past destroy their chance at a happy future. Or will this modern day Beauty and the Beast have a happily ever after.
Astrid is a young single mom, trying to make ends meet, and agrees to pick up a shift at very elusive club “Midnight in Mayfair”. Originally expecting to work in the kitchen she received an amazing offer to work as a dancer to replace a last minute accident.
Unknowingly catching the eye of its owner Te Ariki. Still reeling from a horrible accident that caused major burns to himself and the loss of his brother. He sits in the shadows deeming himself unloveable by any female.
Astride is also entranced by the masked man sitting in front of her. Everything she does is for her disabled daughter. She has learned throughout the years never to judge a book by its cover. So as the week goes on and the payments go up, she doesn’t hesitate to say yes. To be able to spend more time with him.
As, there 1st date draws near, will the ghosts of their past destroy their chance at a happy future. Or will this modern day Beauty and the Beast have a happily ever after.
December 15, 2025
Meh. Couldn’t figure out the size of the FMC because she kept body shaming skinny people and talking about her generous curves, but the stage manager called her tiny. And the first time we meet MMC he was in a tux. With. HOODIE. And a phantom of the opera mask 😂😂😂. Very “not like the other girls” FMC. Also, they don’t even see her dance, just takes her word for it that she took pole dancing lessons, and then puts her in front of VIP section of this super swanky and selective club. I like to think she danced like that Olympics break dancing woman.
Adding: ew. The billionaire worship. He has donated all his profit from a strip club but then makes the statement that even if he kept it, it would have been deserved for all his hard work. No. He was born to billionaire parents. Grew up privileged. No one earns a billion dollars without exploiting people. There is no such thing as an ethical billionaire.
Also. How did he get the new wheelchair fitted to immi’s measurements? There’s a science to it.
Adding: ew. The billionaire worship. He has donated all his profit from a strip club but then makes the statement that even if he kept it, it would have been deserved for all his hard work. No. He was born to billionaire parents. Grew up privileged. No one earns a billion dollars without exploiting people. There is no such thing as an ethical billionaire.
Also. How did he get the new wheelchair fitted to immi’s measurements? There’s a science to it.
December 11, 2024
Here's an entertaining take on the Beauty and the Beast tale against a holiday backdrop. Astrid, a single mom, is our Beauty, taking on temp jobs to make ends meet. When a kitchen staff gig at an exclusive club unexpectedly turns into a performance position, she meets Te Ariki, billionaire owner of the club. He is our Beast, being badly scarred following a plane crash.
This unlikely pair has an undeniable chemistry, not just between them, but also for the reader. As a prequel for the Under the Southern Stars series, this novella does an admirable job. It sets the tone of richer/poorer and even introduces some upcoming characters. As we've come to expect from Ms. Woods, serious issues (challenges of raising a special needs child and grief/misplaced guilt) are woven into the spicy romantic story. So give yourself a gift with your own copy, but don't forget the book lovers on your list!
This unlikely pair has an undeniable chemistry, not just between them, but also for the reader. As a prequel for the Under the Southern Stars series, this novella does an admirable job. It sets the tone of richer/poorer and even introduces some upcoming characters. As we've come to expect from Ms. Woods, serious issues (challenges of raising a special needs child and grief/misplaced guilt) are woven into the spicy romantic story. So give yourself a gift with your own copy, but don't forget the book lovers on your list!
December 3, 2024
This is a great Christmas novella! Astrid and Te Ariki are lovely together. They really see each other past the other person's hangups and, as a good Christmas story requires, has a beautiful feel-good happy ending. The only issue that I have with it is that it is much too short and that I would have loved to read about them in more detail. Apparently we will be treated to that in 2025, yay!
This book is the prequel to "Seduction under the Southern Stars" and introduces the reader to Linc Green, its main character, who is a close friend of Te Ariki. Serenity Woods has built a world where all of her books are related and often a character of a previous series will make a small appearance.
Read "One Night Before Christmas", and then read the other books this one refers to. They're all this beautiful.
I was given an advance copy in return for reviewing it, lucky me!
This book is the prequel to "Seduction under the Southern Stars" and introduces the reader to Linc Green, its main character, who is a close friend of Te Ariki. Serenity Woods has built a world where all of her books are related and often a character of a previous series will make a small appearance.
Read "One Night Before Christmas", and then read the other books this one refers to. They're all this beautiful.
I was given an advance copy in return for reviewing it, lucky me!
December 6, 2024
This is a truly heartwarming story. Beautifully broken and scarred mega-rich Te Ariki encounters money-poor but brighty unbroken widow (by suicide) Astrid, who has a daughter with Spina Bifida. And the world stops spinning for both of them—or maybe it starts again. He knows she needs money and ends up making sure she gets it as a dancer at his hot club, one of her many temp jobs trying to make ends meet. He thinks she only acts interested in him because of the money, totally oblivious to the fact she actually likes him, not bothered by his scars at all. But he holds everyone at arms length, until he realizes he can’t stop thinking about her.
So the sweet is there from the beginning, but the spicy—oh my, you have to read this book, because when it heats up, it burns the pages!! Of course Mr. Rich Guy almost blows it, but he gets the sweet and empathetic lovely girl in the end!
So the sweet is there from the beginning, but the spicy—oh my, you have to read this book, because when it heats up, it burns the pages!! Of course Mr. Rich Guy almost blows it, but he gets the sweet and empathetic lovely girl in the end!
December 14, 2024
I love novellas, and this one is such a great Christmas read. Te Ariki is a broken man with scars on his soul and body. He meets Astrid, whom he believes is an angel. Perhaps she is because she shakes things up in more ways than one (tongue in cheek). Astrid is just a single mum trying to make ends meet and buy Christmas for her daughter. When these two meet, flames shoot to the sky. The heat is intensely wicked.
I really loved this story. There was redemption, healing, and a wonderful Christmas ending.
I even liked that a character from one of the authors' newest books, Seduction Under the Southern Stars, was given a back story on how his journey came about taking him back home to New Zealand.
Thank you again, Serenity Woods, for giving us such a wonderful Christmas read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novella.
I really loved this story. There was redemption, healing, and a wonderful Christmas ending.
I even liked that a character from one of the authors' newest books, Seduction Under the Southern Stars, was given a back story on how his journey came about taking him back home to New Zealand.
Thank you again, Serenity Woods, for giving us such a wonderful Christmas read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novella.
December 2, 2024
What a heartwarming and poignant novella for Christmas where two damaged and grieving people find the healing power of a Christmas spent together. The story is set in London at an exclusive gentlemen's club where Astrid gets a temporary gig pole dancing; catching the eye and lust of one of the rich owners. But, in addition to the hot sexual tension, there is a story of romance and tenderness intermingles with life's struggles and sadness. Fortunately Astrid and club owner Te Ariki find each other just as they are both ready to move away from their grief. The ending is sweet and so satisfying. This has everything you look for in a Christmas story to warm your heart and it segues perfectly into the Seduction Under the Southern Stars and the rest of the romances set in New Zealand.
December 6, 2024
5 Star Review One Night Before Christmas by Serenity Woods
From the start I knew I was in for a magical read from Serenity Woods. Tis the season for family and friends and it’s my favorite holiday of the year.
This is an emotional, at times heart breaking and heart warming story. Set in London at the Midnight in Mayfair nightclub, Astrid is offered a job she never thought she would accept by the club’s owner, Te Ariki Thompson.
Desperate for money to pay the bills and look after her disabled daughter, Immi, Astrid accepts.
Falling for the scarred Māori was the last thing Astrid expected but she sees beneath the surface and that is what took this book to another level.
Well written, character driven, you cannot help but become invested in the story Ms. Woods wove.
From the start I knew I was in for a magical read from Serenity Woods. Tis the season for family and friends and it’s my favorite holiday of the year.
This is an emotional, at times heart breaking and heart warming story. Set in London at the Midnight in Mayfair nightclub, Astrid is offered a job she never thought she would accept by the club’s owner, Te Ariki Thompson.
Desperate for money to pay the bills and look after her disabled daughter, Immi, Astrid accepts.
Falling for the scarred Māori was the last thing Astrid expected but she sees beneath the surface and that is what took this book to another level.
Well written, character driven, you cannot help but become invested in the story Ms. Woods wove.
February 7, 2025
Talk 👄 about hotness 🔥 😍
A woman goes into a club, single momma goes into a club to work as a chef but ends up being a dancer instead. The boss is a hot but mysterious man with an instant draw to her. Instant sexual connection is drawn between them.both. the fact that he pays VERY GOOD is a little bonus for her. In a short time, she instantly likes and wants to be with him.
When an offer is made, she instantly takes. But he ruins the moment because he can't take how he looks. Will it be a happy ending?
This is a real issue for some. Those who have any kind of skin issues automatically feels that they are constantly judged and won't get real love or deserves it. This book proves that they are wrong..
The details itself is just a bonus 😉
A woman goes into a club, single momma goes into a club to work as a chef but ends up being a dancer instead. The boss is a hot but mysterious man with an instant draw to her. Instant sexual connection is drawn between them.both. the fact that he pays VERY GOOD is a little bonus for her. In a short time, she instantly likes and wants to be with him.
When an offer is made, she instantly takes. But he ruins the moment because he can't take how he looks. Will it be a happy ending?
This is a real issue for some. Those who have any kind of skin issues automatically feels that they are constantly judged and won't get real love or deserves it. This book proves that they are wrong..
The details itself is just a bonus 😉
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