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The Grinch of Greystone Hall
A blizzard. A grumpy marquess. One wildly enthusiastic scientist determined to study Christmas—whether he likes it or not.
When Wanton Wallflower crashes into Greystone Hall (literally—through the chimney), she only wants to conduct her first proper Christmas study.
Alderic St. James, Marquess of Alderbram, wants her gone.
The weather wants her to stay.
Snowed in together, Wanton unleashes a series of festive “experiments”—from weaponized carols to catastrophic eggnog—while Alderic wages a losing battle against holiday cheer…and his growing attraction to the woman turning his hunting lodge into chaos.
But when an ill-fated Christmas gift sends Wanton fleeing into the storm, Alderic must face the truth he’s tried to bury for
he doesn’t hate Christmas—he hates spending it alone.
A heart-melting, laugh-out-loud holiday romp where frost thaws, science misbehaves, and one mistletoe kiss changes everything.
When Wanton Wallflower crashes into Greystone Hall (literally—through the chimney), she only wants to conduct her first proper Christmas study.
Alderic St. James, Marquess of Alderbram, wants her gone.
The weather wants her to stay.
Snowed in together, Wanton unleashes a series of festive “experiments”—from weaponized carols to catastrophic eggnog—while Alderic wages a losing battle against holiday cheer…and his growing attraction to the woman turning his hunting lodge into chaos.
But when an ill-fated Christmas gift sends Wanton fleeing into the storm, Alderic must face the truth he’s tried to bury for
he doesn’t hate Christmas—he hates spending it alone.
A heart-melting, laugh-out-loud holiday romp where frost thaws, science misbehaves, and one mistletoe kiss changes everything.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
3 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Giovanna Siniscalchi
18 books148 followersGiovanna Siniscalchi chased narrative arcs and climax points in the Nasdaq for twelve long years working as an economist. Still, her romantic imagination was wasted in the financial markets, so she decided to put it to better use: write fiction. She is married and has two great kids. Her passions are eclectic, including reading, traveling, surfing, wine, and of course, historical romance.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 14, 2025
4.75 🌟
'And Wanton became extremely aware that something hot and stiff was resting against her hip. “Oh,” she squeaked, “that’s not Santa’s scepter, is it?”' (Ch 10)
The poor Marquess had no idea what was in store for him once the soot encrusted rosy cheeked creature slid down the chimney flue and crashed into him.
'He had survived a war. Scandals. Deceits. Loneliness. But this woman, with her shining eyes and unstoppable optimism… She undid him with a smile.' (Ch 12)
Who would argue with nature's very palpable voice of reason to keep Wanton right where she needed to be despite the Marquess' objections and the fact that her initial trajectory was misdirected.
Wanton, though 99% fueled by scientific intention, took that 1% reserved for miscellaneous and channeled it toward gut instinct, aka base survival.
There would be a challenge, the hardest one yet! (This has to be the most disheartened I've ever read Wanton to be. 😪) Bonnets skewed and petticoats tossed — incidentally softer than gauntlets. Things would be further displaced. An invasion (in true Wanton fashion). Reflexes flexed. A breaking (🥲)... breakthrough (🥳). A melting. And a bah hummmmm... BED.
And let us not forget the reindeer POV! It's always fun to know what an animal is thinking... or observing. He was very well educated.
'The firelight flickered. The tree tilted, tangled, thoroughly scandalized. And above them, one last ornament surrendered to gravity, landing in a soft bounce on the fur rug.' (Ch 15)
eARC courtesy of Giovanna Siniscalchi. Voluntary review.
'And Wanton became extremely aware that something hot and stiff was resting against her hip. “Oh,” she squeaked, “that’s not Santa’s scepter, is it?”' (Ch 10)
The poor Marquess had no idea what was in store for him once the soot encrusted rosy cheeked creature slid down the chimney flue and crashed into him.
'He had survived a war. Scandals. Deceits. Loneliness. But this woman, with her shining eyes and unstoppable optimism… She undid him with a smile.' (Ch 12)
Who would argue with nature's very palpable voice of reason to keep Wanton right where she needed to be despite the Marquess' objections and the fact that her initial trajectory was misdirected.
Wanton, though 99% fueled by scientific intention, took that 1% reserved for miscellaneous and channeled it toward gut instinct, aka base survival.
There would be a challenge, the hardest one yet! (This has to be the most disheartened I've ever read Wanton to be. 😪) Bonnets skewed and petticoats tossed — incidentally softer than gauntlets. Things would be further displaced. An invasion (in true Wanton fashion). Reflexes flexed. A breaking (🥲)... breakthrough (🥳). A melting. And a bah hummmmm... BED.
And let us not forget the reindeer POV! It's always fun to know what an animal is thinking... or observing. He was very well educated.
'The firelight flickered. The tree tilted, tangled, thoroughly scandalized. And above them, one last ornament surrendered to gravity, landing in a soft bounce on the fur rug.' (Ch 15)
eARC courtesy of Giovanna Siniscalchi. Voluntary review.
December 9, 2025
Rating: 5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
In the newest delightfully chaotic installment of the Wanton Wallflower series, readers are whisked away to a snowy landscape where Wanton sets out to study the “Perfect Christmas” celebrations. Unfortunately—or perhaps fortunately—she ends up in the wrong place entirely. Instead of meeting the Duchess of Everly, the queen of all things Noel, she finds herself stranded at the home of Alderic St. James, the Marquess of Alderbram…a man far more Grinch than holiday cheer.
I laughed my way through this entire novella. Wanton absolutely outdoes herself here. Her determination to infuse Alderic’s frozen world with holiday spirit leads to a cascade of hilarious experiments—testing taste buds while attempting to make eggnog, bringing a very questionable solo caroler to his doorstep (who may or may not sound like an angry bird), building snowmen, and more. Yet no matter how hard she tries, Alderic’s Grinchy exterior refuses to thaw…until it suddenly, wonderfully does.
One thing I adore about this series is that each novella feels as rich and complete as a full-length novel. The plot is tight, the characters are vibrant, the romance is charming and warm, and the humor lands every single time. And of course, I can’t forget the world’s cutest “reindeer”—Donner the horse—whose antics might just contain a bit of holiday magic of their own.
If you’re craving a story with grumpy-meets-sunshine charm, snowed-in coziness, laugh-out-loud humor, and just enough spice to melt the frost away, this is absolutely the novella for you.
“The scrape came again, sharper this time, like an owl performing its own grisly death aria against the brick…Alderic’s mind lurched to an image of raccoons using his roof as a matrimonial bed... then a heavy thump. A grunt… and something was descending the flue at fast speed”
“...Scientia liberabit glaciatam.”
A Latin proverb loosely translating to: “Knowledge shall free the frozen woman.”
I want to thank Giovanna Siniscalchi for the opportunity to be on her ARC team.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
In the newest delightfully chaotic installment of the Wanton Wallflower series, readers are whisked away to a snowy landscape where Wanton sets out to study the “Perfect Christmas” celebrations. Unfortunately—or perhaps fortunately—she ends up in the wrong place entirely. Instead of meeting the Duchess of Everly, the queen of all things Noel, she finds herself stranded at the home of Alderic St. James, the Marquess of Alderbram…a man far more Grinch than holiday cheer.
I laughed my way through this entire novella. Wanton absolutely outdoes herself here. Her determination to infuse Alderic’s frozen world with holiday spirit leads to a cascade of hilarious experiments—testing taste buds while attempting to make eggnog, bringing a very questionable solo caroler to his doorstep (who may or may not sound like an angry bird), building snowmen, and more. Yet no matter how hard she tries, Alderic’s Grinchy exterior refuses to thaw…until it suddenly, wonderfully does.
One thing I adore about this series is that each novella feels as rich and complete as a full-length novel. The plot is tight, the characters are vibrant, the romance is charming and warm, and the humor lands every single time. And of course, I can’t forget the world’s cutest “reindeer”—Donner the horse—whose antics might just contain a bit of holiday magic of their own.
If you’re craving a story with grumpy-meets-sunshine charm, snowed-in coziness, laugh-out-loud humor, and just enough spice to melt the frost away, this is absolutely the novella for you.
“The scrape came again, sharper this time, like an owl performing its own grisly death aria against the brick…Alderic’s mind lurched to an image of raccoons using his roof as a matrimonial bed... then a heavy thump. A grunt… and something was descending the flue at fast speed”
“...Scientia liberabit glaciatam.”
A Latin proverb loosely translating to: “Knowledge shall free the frozen woman.”
I want to thank Giovanna Siniscalchi for the opportunity to be on her ARC team.
December 17, 2025
Festive fun!
These little Wanton Wallflower novellas are absolutely delightful. Seriously creative. Brilliant. Hysterical. Romantic. They make me forget about all of my problems. Loved our aristocratic Grinch. Of course, I love all of the heroes. Donner was such a nice touch.
These little Wanton Wallflower novellas are absolutely delightful. Seriously creative. Brilliant. Hysterical. Romantic. They make me forget about all of my problems. Loved our aristocratic Grinch. Of course, I love all of the heroes. Donner was such a nice touch.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another delightful Wanton Wallflower escapade. I particularly enjoyed the Egg Not scene...
December 9, 2025
The things that Christmas tree saw...
Huge thanks to Giovanna Siniscalchi for the ARC.
Huge thanks to Giovanna Siniscalchi for the ARC.
December 21, 2025
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this short story and this is my freely given opinion.
Again, another bit of lighthearted humorous historical frivolity. Wanton continues her crazed reasearch expeditions, now encompassing a look at festive traditions, as she travels to join her mentor at her holiday house party. But through various mishaps, including riding a genetically challenged horse (apparently actually Donner, the rather bemused on-looking reindeer), and finding her internal map is a bit off kilter, she ends up at Greystone Hall, the escape of the holiday-hating hermit otherwise known as the Marquess of Alderbram, Alderic St. James.
Shenanigans ensue as Wanton invades his home, is forced to stay, and endeavours to further her studies by forcing holiday festivities down the throat of the Grinchy Marquess - including snowball fights, mistletoe mazes, and unrecognizable handknit goods - until the Marquess has no choice but to surrender. A rather naked, sweaty surrender (oh poor Donner's eyes!).
Snort-worthy frivolous fun read, further enhanced by freshly baked Grinch cookies (thanks to the Pioneer Woman - look them up, they are adorable, and double thumbs up approved by husband).
4 stars out of 5
Do not read this with any hope of serious historical fact or accuracy. Your poor head will explode.
Again, another bit of lighthearted humorous historical frivolity. Wanton continues her crazed reasearch expeditions, now encompassing a look at festive traditions, as she travels to join her mentor at her holiday house party. But through various mishaps, including riding a genetically challenged horse (apparently actually Donner, the rather bemused on-looking reindeer), and finding her internal map is a bit off kilter, she ends up at Greystone Hall, the escape of the holiday-hating hermit otherwise known as the Marquess of Alderbram, Alderic St. James.
Shenanigans ensue as Wanton invades his home, is forced to stay, and endeavours to further her studies by forcing holiday festivities down the throat of the Grinchy Marquess - including snowball fights, mistletoe mazes, and unrecognizable handknit goods - until the Marquess has no choice but to surrender. A rather naked, sweaty surrender (oh poor Donner's eyes!).
Snort-worthy frivolous fun read, further enhanced by freshly baked Grinch cookies (thanks to the Pioneer Woman - look them up, they are adorable, and double thumbs up approved by husband).
4 stars out of 5
Do not read this with any hope of serious historical fact or accuracy. Your poor head will explode.
December 20, 2025
The Grinch of Greystone Hall by Giovanna Siniscalchi, part of The Wanton Wallflower series, offers short, brilliant snippets of insight into the life of a modern woman living within a period setting. Each book explores a different escapade, all of them funny, charming, and full of wit, and The Grinch of Greystone Hall is no exception.
I absolutely love the character, Wanton Wallflower, and Siniscalchi brings her vividly to life on the page. The added use of “Donner” in this Christmas-themed story introduced another layer of humour that worked perfectly and made the book even more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a quick, uplifting read, I’d highly recommend trying any book in this series. Each one can be read as a standalone, but once you’ve read one, you’ll almost certainly want to go back for more. These stories are guaranteed to lift your spirits and leave you smiling.
I absolutely love the character, Wanton Wallflower, and Siniscalchi brings her vividly to life on the page. The added use of “Donner” in this Christmas-themed story introduced another layer of humour that worked perfectly and made the book even more enjoyable.
If you’re looking for a quick, uplifting read, I’d highly recommend trying any book in this series. Each one can be read as a standalone, but once you’ve read one, you’ll almost certainly want to go back for more. These stories are guaranteed to lift your spirits and leave you smiling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honestly, this book was just fun. Wanton crashing through the chimney had me hooked right away, and her chaotic Christmas enthusiasm never let up. Alderic trying (and absolutely failing) to stay grumpy was hilarious, especially as she slowly takes over his lodge with carols, experiments, and general festive nonsense.
But what surprised me was how sweet it became. The moment you realize Alderic doesn’t actually hate Christmas, he just hates spending it alone, hit a lot harder than I expected. It made all the humor and banter feel even more meaningful.
If you like grump/sunshine, snowed-in stories, and holiday romance that mixes laughter with a little bit of heartache, this is such a cozy read.
But what surprised me was how sweet it became. The moment you realize Alderic doesn’t actually hate Christmas, he just hates spending it alone, hit a lot harder than I expected. It made all the humor and banter feel even more meaningful.
If you like grump/sunshine, snowed-in stories, and holiday romance that mixes laughter with a little bit of heartache, this is such a cozy read.
December 18, 2025
Of all the indulgences Christmas allows, this one may be my favorite. Writing this Wanton adventure was a delicious excuse to pour everything I love about the season onto the page: candlelight and snow, absurd traditions, reckless hope, stubborn grumps, and the kind of magic that sneaks up on you when you’re not looking. I had far too much fun letting Wanton apply science to cheer, desire, and reindeer logistics, and watching Alderic lose his composure one hypothesis at a time. My hope is simple: that somewhere between the laughter, the warmth, and the mischief, you’ll feel a spark of Christmas magic too.
December 25, 2025
The 6th book in the Wanton Wallflower series is the perfect holiday novel! Cozy, steamy and full of scientific inquiry. Wanton accidentally stumbles upon a grinch of a man while traveling on a reindeer mistaken as a horse in a snow storm. Wanting to study Christmas Merriment she is determined to conduct experiments to put Aldric in the holiday spirit things spiral hilariously out of control like only Wanton is capable of. Perfect for fans of historical swoon worthy romance with a dash of scientific discovery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 19, 2025
Testing Christmas Hypotheses
Who else would venture out to test theories around Christmas spirit than our dear Wanton Wallflower. Fortuitous arrival at the wrong home for a Christmas party and meeting grumpy Alderic set the wheels in motion. Every test Wanton attempts just made me laugh. What a lovely quick read about finding the spirit of Christmas in the most empirical of ways!
I received an ARC and voluntarily am sharing my honest review.
Who else would venture out to test theories around Christmas spirit than our dear Wanton Wallflower. Fortuitous arrival at the wrong home for a Christmas party and meeting grumpy Alderic set the wheels in motion. Every test Wanton attempts just made me laugh. What a lovely quick read about finding the spirit of Christmas in the most empirical of ways!
I received an ARC and voluntarily am sharing my honest review.
December 9, 2025
A festive Yuletide romp! Definitely gets me in the spirit of several things!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 13, 2025
A fun, mad cap and heart felt Christmas regency romp. Wanton Wallflower meets a grumpy marquess and snowed in experiments ensue.
December 21, 2025
This was an absolute delight! A fun novella to get lost during the busy holiday season! Smiling the whole way through as our Wallflower thawed the frozen heart of our marquess in the name of science!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews