From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Audrey Carlan comes a new story in her Marriage Auction series.
"'Tis the Season," some people say as if the month of December could somehow magically make the world a better place. Fat chance of that happening in Sin City.
In my world, nothing is merry and bright. More like dark and dank. In fact, deck the halls should be deck the slobbering drunk who waited for me to get off work and followed me to my car with only one thing in mind.
He didn't expect a smart girl with a handy-dandy taser, ready to light the star on his tree.
Unfortunately, I didn't expect there to be two of them. While my attacker was on the ground, twitching and convulsing, his face as red and puffed up as ole St. Nick, I was grabbed from behind by Santa's helper.
As luck would have it, a limo rolled through the parking lot just in time. A pair of men exited the vehicle and dispatched my attackers as if by magic.
A sleek, elegant, and expensively dressed woman alighted from her shiny sleigh, took one look at me, and offered me a Christmas miracle…
Three million dollars for three years of my life.
And that's how I met my savior, Madam Alana, owner of The Marriage Auction.
Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new listeners, it's an introduction to an author's world. For fans, it's a bonus book in the author's series.
Aside from A Christmas Auction, I've only read the first book in Audrey Carlan's Marriage Auction series, and I loved that book when I read it. Reading A Christmas Auction definitely made me want to FINALLY go back and read the other books in the series. A Christmas Auction is also definitely one of the better 1001 Dark Nights novellas that I've read over the years, since I felt like this one actually had a plot to it; most of these 1001 Dark Nights novellas have been hit or miss in my experience.
My rating/score: 4 out of 5 stars on Goodreads' rating system / 8 out of 10 on my own personal scoring system.
Audrey Carlan’s “A Christmas Auction” kicks off this holiday season with a short novella filled with heated moments that don’t feel too insta-lovey, which likely has to do with the concept of the auction in the story—a modified take on an arranged marriage but with bidding involved. Holly’s (FMC) involvement with Bruno (MMC), her guard, is steamy, amusing, and full of chemistry. I enjoyed the short story and look forward to other stories in 1001 Dark & Nights.
5 Star Review A Christmas Auction by Audrey Carlan: A Marriage Auction Novella
Tis the season. I love any story set around the holidays, add in that it is a part of the Marriage Auction series by Audrey Carlan and it was a win/win for me.
This may be a novella but it was packed full of entertainment. Madam Alana, the owner of The Marriage Auction is working her matchmaking magic again, this time for Bruno and Holly.
Bruno works security for Madam Alana and comes to Holly’s rescue. He wasn’t looking for a partner but fate has other plans for our couple.
There was nothing I didn’t love about this book. One click, you won’t be disappointed.
Forget Christmas cookies, I am here for the chocolate cake! The Christmas Auction had me gasping, singing, laughing and falling in love with Holly and Bruno! Their banter and his broody nature mixed with her firecracker spirit made me consumed with this couple. I was hoping Bruno would get his own story when he popped up in the Marriage Auction and he was worth the wait!!! You don’t have to read that to love this, but when you’re done with Bruno & Holly you should because you will be hooked! She writes the fantastic characters. I was so proud of Holly for chasing her dreams and not giving up. Can we talk about the chocolate cake again? Wowza!!! Hot!!! I don’t think I will ever think about chocolate cake the same way again. Audrey gave us the best early Christmas present with this story and I couldn’t put it down!!!
5 Star Review A Christmas Auction by Audrey Carlan: A Marriage Auction Novella
Tis the season. I love any story set around the holidays, add in that it is a part of the Marriage Auction series by Audrey Carlan and it was a win/win for me.
This may be a novella but it was packed full of entertainment. Madam Alana, the owner of The Marriage Auction is working her matchmaking magic again, this time for Bruno and Holly.
Bruno works security for Madam Alana and comes to Holly’s rescue. He wasn’t looking for a partner but fate has other plans for our couple.
There was nothing I didn’t love about this book. One click, you won’t be disappointed.
This sassy and spicy novella is part of The Marriage Auction World. It can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend season 1 and 2, cause it’s just so good. Bruno does make an appearance in season 2. What can I say, I just love diving back into this world. Madame Alana has a silent gift of finding love for others and I’m here for it. Bruno, a private security guard was thrown into this world to be the head of security for the auction candidates. Little did this broody, grumpy, closed off alpha know that Holly was going to give him a run for his money. Holly a fiercely independent woman, who knows what she wants has been working hard to make her dreams come true. She’s recruited by Madame Alana to join the special Christmas Auction to help her get there. The tension of him having to save Holly from some dangerous experiences brings them closer together. I loved seeing this alpha show his softer side. What a ride we went on with these two. The banter, sass, instalust, attraction is spot on. This wasn’t in the cards for either of them. I loved how supportive of each other they were. Loved this one. Highly recommend.
I love The Marriage Auction so when Audrey gives us these novellas I absolutely adore them. I enjoyed the new characters mixed with some of our favorites. Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. A couple of my favorite movies and song was mentioned and that just made me smile. I love a good Christmas book and this hit the spot.
This is a quick 171 paged book. I have read Audrey Carlan’s other books in her Marriage Auction series and loved them, and this is no exception. A Christmas Marriage Auction is held and it is a little different from the other auctions where the candidates meet and get to date prior to the auction. This is Bruno’s story! He has been a character in the series and he gets his HEA in this one. Cute quick read. If you like Carlan’s Marriage Auction series, you will like this one too. Especially at Christmas time.
I would like to thank 1001 Dark Nights, Blue Box Pressand Audrey Carlan for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Christmas Auction is part of Audrey Carlin’s Marriage Auction series and the 1001 Dark Nights collection. This novella is my first book by this author and was a perfect opportunity to sample her work. I was happy to discover that her writing is fun, spicy, and engaging. This story is about Holly Knight, a thirty year old woman who had been trying to save enough to open her own bar in Las Vegas. It was very slow going and she was unable to secure a bank loan to help herself along. One night she was attacked by a bar patron outside the bar she managed and was saved by a handsome man in a limo with a strikingly beautiful woman. After she recovered from the attack, the woman approached her to propose that she participate in a marriage auction.She would earn at least three million dollars in exchange for a marriage of at least three years. When she accepted, her handsome savior, Bruno, became her bodyguard. His role was to keep her safe while she went on dates with potential bidders to determine compatibility. But the attraction between Holly and Bruno was irresistible and Bruno protective/possessive, throwing a kink into her plans. This was a short, spicy read about two people who were irresistibly drawn to each other despite being adverse to emotional attachments. Holly was hyper focused on being the one to accomplish her goals. She wanted a partner who would support that. While the outcome of the story was predictable, which we love about our romance novels, the journey was delicious. The chemistry was palpable and the open door spicy scenes were hot. The book was well written and the story, while brief, didn’t feel rushed. If you are a reader that enjoys a spicy, forbidden relationship, grumpy sunshine, arranged marriage, contemporary holiday romance novella, then this one may just be for you!
Audrey this book was not what expected! Bruno Castellanos is Joel Castellanos cousin. He has his own security business. He is hired by Madam Alana to be security for her candidates in the auction. Holly is a bartender in a bar near the private airport. She is about to close up when a man looking like a lumberjack gets demanding. He is asked to leave. Holly gets an ride for one of the customers that was intoxicated. While outside she gets attacked by lumberjack and his brother. She tased one guy but didn’t see the other. The limo pulls up and Bruno Castellanos saves Holly. She passes out in his arms. She wakes up in the hospital with Madam Alana and Bruno in her room. Madam Alana offers a deal to join the auction three million dollars for three years of marriage. She told Holly to think about. Holly decides to join the auction. Bruno will be her security. Bruno is broody and he likes getting under Holly’s skin. Holly knows how good looking he is. They share a suite. Bruno is attracted to her and very protective of her since he saved her. This encounter turns into a night of fun she has never experienced before. They agreed no strings attached. Bruno seems like he is jealous of her date. Holly is going on a date with a movie actor to a charity event. She is excited to go on the date until one of his fans hits Holly in the head. Bruno is trying get to Holly. The actors fans surrounded him. Bruno carried her to safety and got her medical attention. Bruno was hemorrhaging and more attached. He never has felt this way about any woman. He doesn’t want a relationship because of his security business. He is rarely around due to his business. The red carpet event was seen on tv. Madam Alana was upset with Bruno because her candidate was hurt. While he was on the phone the actor shows up at the hotel room. He wants to know how long she was with her security detail. Holly hopes she can still enter the auction. Bruno can not offer her what she wants so she goes along with the auction. The night of the auction Bruno finally gets his act together and goes after her. I was hoping he didn’t let Holly go. He wanted her from the first time he saved her in the bar parking lot. Holly wanted him but he is so stubborn. She fell in love with him. I’m glad Bruno got his happily ever after. He was content watching his cousin find happiness again. I’m glad he stepped up. This book has hotness all through it! I wasn’t expecting Bruno Castellanos but Audrey another amazing book. I give it five 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥flames.
A Christmas Auction is a Spicy Novella in the Brilliant world of The Marriage Auction by Audrey Carlan.
Bruno & Holly's story is absolute Fire 🔥 Holly being the steong independent quick witted woman she is doesn't take any flack from anyone. When she's taken by surprise by two degenerate Brothers outside of the "out of the way" Bar she works at her life looks like it's going to take a turn for the worse. Until the headlights of a limo comes into view and a saving grace comes to her aide.
Bruno is a broody, no nonsense, king of security, knuckle busting bada$$ and when he and Alana see the trouble ahead he jumps right into action doing what he does best. Kicking a$$ and taking names. He's a master of his profession and always keeps it professional Until the batterd blonde bombshell gazes into his eyes.
Alana makes Holly a offer she can't refuse and an opportunity of a lifetime is thrown in her lap. A chance to help herself make her dreams come true and help her family. Now as she prepares for the Christmas Auction her own savior Bruno is assigned as her personal Bodyguard. Their chemistry can't be denied and the heat between them can't be turned down. It's only supposed to be physical, she's meeting with men who will then bid on their chance to Marry her for now fewer that 3 years. That will give her the chance to change her & her family’s lives. But when the physical attraction turns into more for her & Bruno can they put their own fears and doubts aside to be together?
Audrey gives us another addictive story and explosive couple with this new Novella. I don't know how but Audrey grabs all of the heartstrings and tugs just right in all the amazing ways.
This series continues to be one of my favorites, and I hope that this author plans to write so much more because I just can’t get enough of this world. The characters, the premise, and just being in the world of the marriage auction is truly a place I can’t get enough of. Once again, Audrey Carlan showed me that she is an author. I can count on for a phenomenal read, and I just loved every bit of this novella!
Bruno and Holly had an instant connection. I loved that about the two of them. I also loved that they had a lot to figure out to find their way to each other. That definitely up to the ante of what they shared, and it just made for an enjoyable read. There is definitely a fierce connection between them and I loved getting to be in the thick of that in this story.
Like every book in this series, I could not put the story down. I read it in one sitting, and I loved the mix of romance and spice and a little bit of action and danger. It’s definitely made for a consuming read from start to finish.
I just love this world and I love these books. I cannot wait for more and I just love how this author once again delivered a story that stole my heart. These two were meant to be and I loved getting their story. They pushed each other‘s buttons in the best way, they had a fiery connection, and the holiday feels of this one were the icing on top. Audrey Carlan once again gave me an incredible romance that I loved, and I truly can’t wait for more of her words!
An early festive story set in Audrey Carlan’s Marriage Auction world and fairy godmother Alana is about to make all of Holly’s dreams come through. Holly had just been closing up when she was attacked but fortunately Alana had arrived just the right time with security expert Bruno Castellanos who wasted no time in despatching her attackers. When Holly takes Alana up on her invitation to take part in an auction, she didn’t realise Bruno be on hand to provide protection, or that his protection would be so up close and personal.
I loved how Holly was confident in herself and wasn’t afraid to do whatever she had to, to achieve her dreams which didn’t include marriage or children which made a refreshing change while Bruno may have been a little slower on the uptake, once he realised what was important and that Holly shared a lot of his own views on life, he was right in there. Their chemistry was sizzling and their banter deliciously wicked as they danced around each other as she attended dates while enjoying dessert with Bruno. With a wonderful hero and heroine in Bruno and Holly with lots of Christmas spice between them and some fantastic secondary characters, some familiar and some new. This may have been a short and spicy read but A Christmas Auction packed a punch, and I dare anyone to read their story and want to go bah humbug at the end.
A Christmas Auction Marriage Auction novella Audrey Carlan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Satisfy your marriage auction thirst with this steamy little number. Another hard ass auction bride and the men that bring the beat and drama! Hello who wouldn’t devour it! Prepare yourself for Bruno and Holly. She’s a badass, she’s got dreams and she’s just been saved by a burly man and a French woman. Bruno is Madam Alana’s bodyguard; he witnesses Holly being attacked and jumps into hero mode saving her. This is where the fun begins. As Holly is approached to be a bride in the upcoming Christmas marriage auction, she sees the opportunity for her dreams to come true. A man who’ll pay epic amounts of money, she’ll get to open her own bar, live the life she’s always dreamed of. Sadly when the chemistry between her and her personal bodyguard overrule everything, the auction becomes a cloudy mess. The chemistry Bruno and Holly share is scorching and it’s not long until the urges turn to action, outing everything Holly wants in jeopardy. Can she sell herself to the highest bidder while her heart becomes to another man, for her dreams to become reality? It’s a Christmas miracle, a Christmas explosion and Christmas happiness!!!
Short and sweet (and ridiculously sexy), The Marriage Auction throws the reader right back into Madam Alana’s world. And let’s be honest, it is her world and the rest of us are just living in it. Setting up for a specialty Christmas auction, Madam Alana has hired Bruno Castellanos to play bodyguard to the candidates as they go on sample dates leading up to the auction. He is Joel’s cousin from season 1 and also played a role in season 2 with protecting Alana and Christophe. He meets a damsel in distress and it’s lust at first sight. But Holly is no damsel and Bruno has his work cut out for him while he protects her on her dates.
Holly knows what she wants and she’s not afraid to go after it. She just needs the money to do so. Enter the Christmas auction and now she has herself a plan. I love her take no prisoners attitude. She isn’t afraid to tell Bruno just how she feels. And when the sparks go flying…well let’s just say Audrey Carlan knows how to draw you in and have you racing to find out what happens next. This is the perfect little novella to keep our toes in the Marriage Auction world. And it’s even better to see more of a side character than I ever expected to see of Bruno.
I have been enjoying reading The Marriage Auction Series by Author Audrey Carlan when I stumbled upon it on Vella I think it was called but having to wait for the next chapter drove me crazy so when I discovered I could get her books on kindle I was so grateful to read full books lol. And to discovery there was Madame Alana & Bruno's stories as novellas I hit the jackpot & just had to read both books.
I have enjoyed being able to read full stories of just one couple like Alana & now Bruno's story because I didn't have to wait to go thru the other couples to get back to another one that I was so into reading & couldn't wait to see what happened too.
Bruno surprised me with his character's background he definitely was a broody aloha male but also showed his protective, caring side too which I fell in love with too. And Holly was a perfect match to make him fall and oh how fun it was to see how far and fast he fell even as he tried to fight it til the very end. I thought he was an idiot for walking for not fighting and letting Holly walk away. I hope everyone enjoys reading A Christmas Auction and I am excited to see who will be in the next auction I hope Jonas is, I'd' love to see him get his own novella or even Colin.
To be clear, I’ve loved every “Auction” book by Audrey that I’ve read. I love the stories, the way the relationships evolve. Audrey makes it very interesting to see why these characters get into such a situaiton and it’s really enjoyable to watch the story unfold. Bruno and Holly are no different. Bruno has been hired for security for Ms Alana’s Christmas Auction but the realitivlely easy job takes a turn when they rescue Holly one evening at the bar where she works. Alana had already asked Holly if she wanted ot participate in her Auction in order to secure the needed backing to make her dreams come true, opening her own bar in Las Vegas and helping her parents live a happy, healthy life. Bruno instantly falls for her but can’t get passed himself and his thoughts that no woman would ever want a guy who’s also married to his job. Watching Bruno and Holly navigate their personal feelings for each other and their self doubt was really awesome and I enjoyed this book so much! I recommend this for anyone that loves Audrey’s other Auction offerings and who just needs a sweet HEA!
Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. Readers will get maximum enjoyment if they have already read the Marriage Auction serials as many of the characters are in both. Bruno, the hero, is originally introduced in season one as a side character of another bidder/couple. Bruno thought he would never get married, let alone find love. Holly has given up on love and just wants to make her business dreams come true. When Bruno rescues her from a dangerous situation, he is amazed by the need to protect the beautiful Holly. My favorite heroes are the grumpy doms who fall hard and fast. Bruno certainly falls into this category. When he finally goes after his girl, it is magnificent. Holly was a strong FMC with sass and attitude. I loved her. These two are HOT and they heat up the holiday season and find their very happily-ever-after. This was a wonderful addition to The Marriage Auction world and I really enjoyed reading it.
I have loved every book in the Marriage Auction Series and as Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year I was excited for Bruno and Holly’s story in A Christmas Auction; Marriage Auction Novella and all I need to say is this quick, magical read was everything I expected and so much more. Bruno is working as Security for Madam Alana when he meets Holly. He isn’t looking to be involved in the auctions apart from protecting the brides and Holly is the woman he needs to protect when she decides this is the opportunity to make her dream of owning and running a bar come true. Watching Holly go on dates brings out feelings Bruno has never experienced before so who will be the winning bidder on auction night……one click to find out. This novella ticked all my boxes, I swooned, I sighed and I smiled as I devoured this magic story.
Christmas has come early TMA fans, we are FINALLY getting the Bruno love story we’ve been pining for! Back with a bang and filled with spice and everything naughty we meet Holly (love that name choice for a Christmas novella!) who has big plans to join the auction but live might just find her along the way. Exciting, enticing and pure spicy fun this book is the perfect not so guilty sexy read to get you ready for the holiday season. A must read for TMA fans and especially for Bruno stans, I’d love to have this be a continuing holiday novella series somehow because it’s the perfect little bit of this world to tie you over while you wait for the next season.
Thank you Audrey Carlan & 1001 Dark Nights Blue Box Press for this ARC in exchange for my honest review
This was such a fun, steamy novella. I love novellas for days when I just want to read a simple story rather than a complex fantasy storyline. This story quickly jumps in and introduces us to Holly and tells us about her dream of opening her own bar with her family. Soon she is being given the opportunity to get the money she needs in a marriage auction with the addition of a very attractive body guard.
I love how Holly is an absolute power house of a woman. She knows what she wants and she isn't afraid to act on it. She will do everything in her power to achieve her dream even if she has to sell herselfto a rich man for a couple years, but I think she'll always prefer chocolate cake in the end if you know what I mean.
Wow I loved this novella!! This was the prefect addition to TMA series!! Madam Alana is so good at what she does and knows what someone is needing without them even knowing what it would be!! Holly is a beautiful young lady that has a plan for what she wants her life to look like, the only thing that is holding back is the lack of funds to open her own bar! Bruno is a handsome man that prides himself on being the best when it comes to protecting his charge. He doesn't have time or the energy for a wife or a family of his own. When Alana brought him in as protection for her candidates he didn't know what he was in for.. This book is so good u just need to one click it and all the other TMA books.. Audrey ur are brilliant!!
Holly is an independent, determined young woman. Her dream is to open her own bar one day, and have her mom and dad work there with her, to provide a comfortable retirement for them. But the banks won’t loan her the money, and try as hard as she does to save, she’s no where close to what she needs. So when she crosses paths with Madame Alana, and her security, Bruno, when they come to her rescue, one night, she takes seriously Madam’s offer to participate in her Christmas marriage auction. Unfortunately, there’s something about Bruno that calls to her and that might just interfere with her plans to make her dream come true. Steamy, steamy, steamy!
I just finished reading this incredible romance novel, and I absolutely loved it! The strong female main character (FMC) and the male main character (MMC) had such a magnetic chemistry that made every interaction feel electric. Their banter was playful and witty, adding a fun layer to their blossoming relationship. And let's not forget the spice—wow! The author really knows how to turn up the heat while still keeping it heartfelt. Plus, the happily-ever-after ending was the cherry on top. If you’re a romance reader looking for a captivating story with depth, strong characters, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments, I definitely recommend picking this one up! You won't regret it!
I love this series. While still 5 stars, I think this might be my least favorite marriage auction book. Bruno kind of irks me with his overprotective and controlling tendencies. At times I found myself rolling my eyes or telling him to stop talking. I also really enjoyed how other books set up side characters that later become a main character. Bruno has been a long time side character but this installment is a complete standalone.
If you are new to the marriage auction series and don’t want to dive right into season 1, this could be a good introduction to the series. Of course Madam Alana’s standalone would be an even better choice in this scenario.
That being said, this is still a really good book!
✨This is my first Audrey Carlan book and I LOVED it!! I’m so ready to dive into Madam Alana’s world. 😮💨🤪
✨Christmas is my top favorite holiday and then add this is set in Las Vegas, one of my FAVORITE places to visit into the mix!?! I was super hooked. These two details made this such an exciting read for me.
✨Holly Knight has big dreams that include taking care of her parents ((which I loved)), and she’ll do whatever it takes to get there. Even if it means an “arranged” type of marriage.
✨One ((of the many)) thing I loved the motorcycle club that is in the story too!! Mac is the only one we really meet, but his banter makes me love him the most!
✨ Hm, Chocolate cake?? 📝😏🙈 ✨ Also that shower scene!? 🥵🔥🚿
✨Bruno ((gotta love him)) is -imo- 110% set up by his cousin to help out Alana by providing more security for the auction. You can’t tell me otherwise. 😂
✨I read this as a stand alone and did not feel as though I was missing any crucial information needed to follow Holly along her journey!! Thank you @1001darknights and @audrey for the copy!! 🎄👰♀️
Song: All I want for Christmas is you Gene: Romance Vessel: E-book ⭐️ out of 5: 5
This is my first book from Audrey Carlan. I had heard of her but just never picked up a book from her.
Let me tell you after this book I’ll be fixing that horrible mistake! This story had everything I love. Action. Alpha MMC. Independent MFC. It was all of these things wrapped in tinsel.
The connection between Holly and Bruno was HOT! The chemistry was good which made the spice even better.
The story was captivating from the beginning! I’m so excited to read more from Ms. Carlan.
Holly has always dreamed of owning her own bar but while she works towards that goal she has been managing a bar. When she finds herself in a dangerous situation it Madam Alana and Bruno, her security detail who come to her rescue and offers her an opportunity she can’t turn down.
Bruno is not only attracted to Holly but feels protective of her as well. When he finds himself tasked with her security leading up to the marriage auction that Holly has agreed to participate in he never expected that the biggest challenge would be letting her go.
The interactions between them were humorous and hot as Holly and Bruno find the gift they never knew they wanted in each other.