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A Year of Desire #1
Winter Vows
Winter Vows
A spicy, fast-paced novella perfect for curling up with this winter!
A Midnight Fling. A Locked Elevator. And a New Chapter She Didn’t Plan For.
Sophie thought her New Year’s resolution was no more men, no more heartbreak, no more distractions. After catching her long-term boyfriend in bed with her best friend, she’s done with love. Instead, she creates Books That Bang, a no-nonsense book club to focus on fun—not feelings.
But when a disastrous New Year’s Eve party leads to a chance encounter with Marcus Kingsley—gorgeous, powerful, and entirely out of her league—Sophie’s perfectly planned fresh start gets a lot more complicated.
One night together changes everything, and Sophie quickly realizes that Marcus isn’t the type to be forgotten. But he has a life she can’t imagine fitting into, and her loyalty to her family makes taking risks feel impossible.
Marcus knows what he wants, and he’s never backed down from a challenge. Sophie’s strength and vulnerability captivate him, but breaking through her walls will take more than charm. It’ll take trust, patience, and the one thing he’s never offered anyone his heart.
Will Sophie let herself believe in the kind of love that only exists in her book club fantasies? Or will she convince herself that happily-ever-afters aren’t for women like her?
Perfect for fans of swoon-worthy romances, fiery banter, and steamy moments, Winter Temptations is a novella you can devour in a single evening!
Click to download and let Sophie and Marcus warm up your winter nights!
A spicy, fast-paced novella perfect for curling up with this winter!
A Midnight Fling. A Locked Elevator. And a New Chapter She Didn’t Plan For.
Sophie thought her New Year’s resolution was no more men, no more heartbreak, no more distractions. After catching her long-term boyfriend in bed with her best friend, she’s done with love. Instead, she creates Books That Bang, a no-nonsense book club to focus on fun—not feelings.
But when a disastrous New Year’s Eve party leads to a chance encounter with Marcus Kingsley—gorgeous, powerful, and entirely out of her league—Sophie’s perfectly planned fresh start gets a lot more complicated.
One night together changes everything, and Sophie quickly realizes that Marcus isn’t the type to be forgotten. But he has a life she can’t imagine fitting into, and her loyalty to her family makes taking risks feel impossible.
Marcus knows what he wants, and he’s never backed down from a challenge. Sophie’s strength and vulnerability captivate him, but breaking through her walls will take more than charm. It’ll take trust, patience, and the one thing he’s never offered anyone his heart.
Will Sophie let herself believe in the kind of love that only exists in her book club fantasies? Or will she convince herself that happily-ever-afters aren’t for women like her?
Perfect for fans of swoon-worthy romances, fiery banter, and steamy moments, Winter Temptations is a novella you can devour in a single evening!
Click to download and let Sophie and Marcus warm up your winter nights!
- GenresNovella
132 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2025
8 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Ursula Chang
5 books10 followersHi from the UK! I'm a mother of two and love reading and writing romance. Thanks for popping by!
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 19, 2025
I received a free copy of this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
A spicy novella to warm up your winter nights!
After catching her boyfriend in bed with her best friend, Sophie’s New Year’s resolution is simple: no men, no heartbreak, no distractions. Instead, she creates Books That Bang, a no-nonsense book club for fun—not feelings.
But a disastrous NYE party leads to a chance encounter with Marcus Kingsley—gorgeous, powerful, and way out of her league. One unforgettable night changes everything, and Sophie’s carefully planned fresh start gets a lot more complicated.
Marcus knows what he wants, and he’s never backed down from a challenge. Sophie’s strength and vulnerability captivate him, but breaking through her walls will take more than charm. It’ll take trust, patience, and the one thing he’s never offered anyone else: his heart.
Will Sophie let herself believe in the kind of love that only exists in her book club fantasies? Or will she convince herself that happily-ever-afters aren’t for women like her?
****
I’m not normally a big reader of novellas, they tend to be too short to interest me. However, I’m so glad I took a chance on this one! It was written really well and paced beautifully, the characters had just enough depth to give them a rounded and interesting presence. The story moved along well and more than kept me interested. There were definitely a few “ooh, oh my” moments to make you want to fan yourself, as well as kick my feet in giddiness. I also loved that it was set in England, and not London! As a Brit it’s a refreshing change.
Being a novella means there’s inevitably going to be limited space for deeper character and story depth. I’d have loved opportunities to dig into the back stories more. But honestly I’m struggling to say that’s anything other than me being greedy.
Overall, I’m pleased I took a chance on this novella. It was paced well, kept me interested, had a good level of spice but still kept the characters realistic. Went from HOT, to funny, to fuzzy and back again without any difficulty. Highly recommend it!
A spicy novella to warm up your winter nights!
After catching her boyfriend in bed with her best friend, Sophie’s New Year’s resolution is simple: no men, no heartbreak, no distractions. Instead, she creates Books That Bang, a no-nonsense book club for fun—not feelings.
But a disastrous NYE party leads to a chance encounter with Marcus Kingsley—gorgeous, powerful, and way out of her league. One unforgettable night changes everything, and Sophie’s carefully planned fresh start gets a lot more complicated.
Marcus knows what he wants, and he’s never backed down from a challenge. Sophie’s strength and vulnerability captivate him, but breaking through her walls will take more than charm. It’ll take trust, patience, and the one thing he’s never offered anyone else: his heart.
Will Sophie let herself believe in the kind of love that only exists in her book club fantasies? Or will she convince herself that happily-ever-afters aren’t for women like her?
****
I’m not normally a big reader of novellas, they tend to be too short to interest me. However, I’m so glad I took a chance on this one! It was written really well and paced beautifully, the characters had just enough depth to give them a rounded and interesting presence. The story moved along well and more than kept me interested. There were definitely a few “ooh, oh my” moments to make you want to fan yourself, as well as kick my feet in giddiness. I also loved that it was set in England, and not London! As a Brit it’s a refreshing change.
Being a novella means there’s inevitably going to be limited space for deeper character and story depth. I’d have loved opportunities to dig into the back stories more. But honestly I’m struggling to say that’s anything other than me being greedy.
Overall, I’m pleased I took a chance on this novella. It was paced well, kept me interested, had a good level of spice but still kept the characters realistic. Went from HOT, to funny, to fuzzy and back again without any difficulty. Highly recommend it!
December 11, 2025
When I picked up this book, I was looking forward to a spicy romance, which the author delivered well and truly, with the perfect combination of spice, fun, and fun times by the 28% mark before veering into a more traditional romance and this is when the issues of the book start being visible.
First, each group of people in Sophie's life is totally and completely segregated. She moves from one train-box-car of her life to the next with zero overlap. He ex-boyfriend and friends are in an old town which she never visits, Sophie starts a new book club (more on that in spoilers) meeting in a bar(?), she lives with her parents (maybe), she goes to work, the New Year's party is from a childhood friend, etc. The vignette separation continues with a hotel scene, an elevator scene, and a car scene. Most have been a real shock for her when her one-night-stand showed up at work; her life just doesn't cross paths that way.
But it was the continuity errors that made me stop reading at the 59% mark. I counted over five in my head when I gave up. Not only are the scenes disconnected, but so is the plot. The story needs a complete overhaul and should not have been published in this form.
First, each group of people in Sophie's life is totally and completely segregated. She moves from one train-box-car of her life to the next with zero overlap. He ex-boyfriend and friends are in an old town which she never visits, Sophie starts a new book club (more on that in spoilers) meeting in a bar(?), she lives with her parents (maybe), she goes to work, the New Year's party is from a childhood friend, etc. The vignette separation continues with a hotel scene, an elevator scene, and a car scene. Most have been a real shock for her when her one-night-stand showed up at work; her life just doesn't cross paths that way.
But it was the continuity errors that made me stop reading at the 59% mark. I counted over five in my head when I gave up. Not only are the scenes disconnected, but so is the plot. The story needs a complete overhaul and should not have been published in this form.
February 11, 2025
Warm wishes by MeemsAngel82
This was such an emotional book! The writing is great and the lead up and tension between our leads is done wonderfully. This is a lovely read with two passionate people that get very involved with one another. The pain in her past is replaced by a good man and some solid new friends.
She meets him and they have a magical night. She has a complex life and is convinced that fairytales aren't starting her in any lead roles.
But thankfully fate got to her. He turns out to be her boss and what a man to right away want her close. That made me so happy and warm, no being distant and cold, rather wanting more. They are so beautiful together. Her terrible ex and ex bestie are rotten and her new girls? Such a fun bunch and I totally love their idea of a book club! I wish that were a thing for some of us in the real world. They are a cozy and warm bunch. And the relationship between her and her guy? Loved it. Then seeing him with her dad and then her parents together at home? I just melted. How incredibly heartwarming! I do wish there was a definite I love you moment because the rest was so good! I wonder what she has in store for Sophie's friends? I look forward to finding out!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such an emotional book! The writing is great and the lead up and tension between our leads is done wonderfully. This is a lovely read with two passionate people that get very involved with one another. The pain in her past is replaced by a good man and some solid new friends.
She meets him and they have a magical night. She has a complex life and is convinced that fairytales aren't starting her in any lead roles.
But thankfully fate got to her. He turns out to be her boss and what a man to right away want her close. That made me so happy and warm, no being distant and cold, rather wanting more. They are so beautiful together. Her terrible ex and ex bestie are rotten and her new girls? Such a fun bunch and I totally love their idea of a book club! I wish that were a thing for some of us in the real world. They are a cozy and warm bunch. And the relationship between her and her guy? Loved it. Then seeing him with her dad and then her parents together at home? I just melted. How incredibly heartwarming! I do wish there was a definite I love you moment because the rest was so good! I wonder what she has in store for Sophie's friends? I look forward to finding out!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2025
Ursula Chang delivers a sizzling, fast-paced novella with Winter, a story that blends passion, emotional growth, and undeniable chemistry. Sophie’s journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and unexpected temptation, making for a very compelling and steamy winter escape.
The dynamic between Sophie and Marcus is electric, filled with witty banter and an irresistible pull that keeps the pages turning. The tension, both emotional and physical, is masterfully woven throughout the story, creating a romance that feels both intense and deeply satisfying.
For readers who love quick, spicy reads with strong characters and fiery connections, Winter is a perfect choice. It’s the kind of novella that keeps you warm long after the last page, proving that sometimes, the best new beginnings happen when you least expect them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The dynamic between Sophie and Marcus is electric, filled with witty banter and an irresistible pull that keeps the pages turning. The tension, both emotional and physical, is masterfully woven throughout the story, creating a romance that feels both intense and deeply satisfying.
For readers who love quick, spicy reads with strong characters and fiery connections, Winter is a perfect choice. It’s the kind of novella that keeps you warm long after the last page, proving that sometimes, the best new beginnings happen when you least expect them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 23, 2025
Winter is Book 1 of A Year of Desire. It's a short and steamy, instalove, OTT, opposites-attract, curvy girl gets her billionaire romance. Sophie is a sweet and curvy girl who works in marketing for a local hotel. Marcus is a hunky billionaire businessman. The two meet at a New Year's Eve party and end up having a hot one night stand. Sophie is gone in the morning, only leaving a note, but the two can't stop thinking about each other. When their paths cross again, can they take a chance on love? This couple was so good together. Their chemistry was hot, the banter was funny, and the ending was so happy. I loved it and can't wait to read about the other girls in the bookclub. Loved the name of the club, too. This was a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2025
Enjoyable but very similar to other novels I have read. Well paced but feels disjointed at times.
Though it is a great read it loses alot by having so much crammed into a novella. For example the author has to skim over alot of relevant little details that help make the story flow and more importantly, believable. In turn, there are small things omitted that reader will notice. Again, this is all because so much is being crammed into so little.
On another level, there are moments of chemistry and the characters are pleasant enough. I would have preferred Marcus to be a little more dominant but hey, that's just my thing! The spicy book club is a great idea and Sophie's back story interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Though it is a great read it loses alot by having so much crammed into a novella. For example the author has to skim over alot of relevant little details that help make the story flow and more importantly, believable. In turn, there are small things omitted that reader will notice. Again, this is all because so much is being crammed into so little.
On another level, there are moments of chemistry and the characters are pleasant enough. I would have preferred Marcus to be a little more dominant but hey, that's just my thing! The spicy book club is a great idea and Sophie's back story interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2025
Sophie lost her prestigious job with a large hotel chain and now works for a small boutique hotel. It has left her with a financial strain because she helps with her Dad's medical care. Marcus meets Sophie, and their chemistry is instant and explosive. But guess who buys out the small hotel where she works? You guessed it, Marcus. This story is spicy and about two people learning to trust again. I love the plot and each character. It's the kind of book that makes you smile and be a bit sad, too. Fear not, by the ending you are happy again! Excellent book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2025
eBook
Fiction / Romance / Novella / Holidays / Strangers to lovers / Forced Proximity
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 🌶🌶🌶/5
Using for Challenge or Prompts
-The 52 Book Club’s 2025 Mini Challenge Prompt 21. Character has a career change
-ABC Author First name: U
-2025 Spicy book trope challenge: Billionaire
TW: Parent with health issues, dementia situation on page
A fast-paced, sweet yet spicy, winter novella. What happens on New Year's Eve changes everything. I was so here for this one. The FMC is reluctant, and he has to work for it.
Fiction / Romance / Novella / Holidays / Strangers to lovers / Forced Proximity
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 🌶🌶🌶/5
Using for Challenge or Prompts
-The 52 Book Club’s 2025 Mini Challenge Prompt 21. Character has a career change
-ABC Author First name: U
-2025 Spicy book trope challenge: Billionaire
TW: Parent with health issues, dementia situation on page
A fast-paced, sweet yet spicy, winter novella. What happens on New Year's Eve changes everything. I was so here for this one. The FMC is reluctant, and he has to work for it.
December 10, 2025
Winter Vows by Ursula Chang - a romantic novella that has humour, passion, desire, confidence, a bit of spice, emotional growth, fresh start, and family ties.
As a novela, the story moves quickly, but I found the book really enjoyable, and the characters felt so real. The connection between them is so intense yet full of banter and love.
If you’re looking for a book that has a bit of everything, Winter Vows is a great choice. This book will put a smile on your face, and you will not regret reading it.
As a novela, the story moves quickly, but I found the book really enjoyable, and the characters felt so real. The connection between them is so intense yet full of banter and love.
If you’re looking for a book that has a bit of everything, Winter Vows is a great choice. This book will put a smile on your face, and you will not regret reading it.
July 13, 2025
steamy and fun
Winter vows is a fast paced spicy novella perfect for a palate cleanser between longer and darker books. It dives right in with the opposite attract relationship between Marcus and Sophie. A quick fun read with humor, heat and a satisfying HEA. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Winter vows is a fast paced spicy novella perfect for a palate cleanser between longer and darker books. It dives right in with the opposite attract relationship between Marcus and Sophie. A quick fun read with humor, heat and a satisfying HEA. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 11, 2026
Spicy Winter novella but far too short! I needed more! 🔥🥰
Novellas have limited time to get their point across and while I enjoyed the short read I wanted more. This book has so much potential but I believe it could be better as a full length novel so that we can see more character development, read more of the sexual tension and close off with the personal growth for each main character.
Novellas have limited time to get their point across and while I enjoyed the short read I wanted more. This book has so much potential but I believe it could be better as a full length novel so that we can see more character development, read more of the sexual tension and close off with the personal growth for each main character.
January 25, 2025
The book was cute and made for a quick read. A few parts seemed slightly repetitive but overall would recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2025
Sophie and Marcus meet on New Years Eve in this steamy story. From opposite worlds they have an instant connection. A fabulous read with great banter between the couple. Loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2025
This is a great spicy book that has plenty of banter and romance. Great for a good read that helps you relax.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2025
The start of the A Year of Desire series, Marcus and Sophie's short story is cute and I enjoyed reading. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews