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How the Belle Stole Christmas: Historical Romance Stories Inspired by Classic Films
Lights, camera, ROMANCE! Get out the popcorn because the Brazen Belles have reimagined some of your favorite Christmas movies as swoony historical romances:
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers- Maria, Lady Talbot, has fallen in love again with the dashing Viscount Balwyn. Unfortunately, Balwyn’s family doesn’t think Maria is viscountess material. What better way to prove her suitability than hosting them for the holidays? It’s going to be perfect… until absolutely everything goes wrong!
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold- Silas Frostwick, The Earl of Coldharbor, hates Christmas. It’s taken too much from him, and he’s become a recluse. But when he is visited by three ghosts, who show him how much his choices have hurt those who love him, he realizes he must make amends. Will Grace Hollybrook, the upstairs maid he’d once been passionately in love with, let him prove he’s a changed man?
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque- Once the last child leaves the nest, the duke and duchess’s marriage of convenience is over—that was the deal. But when a Christmas celebration turns perilous, they must fight not just for their lives, but for a love they thought had never touched their marriage.
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane- Sir Nicholas Bowen is a silver alchemist and charming rogue by day and a masked do-gooder by night. He’s enraged when he learns that the toys he left for a group of orphans on Christmas Eve were thrown out by a cruel duke. This year, Nico isn’t going to let that happen, despite the warnings of a prim and pretty governess who could discover his identity with a single kiss…
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill- Catriona McCallister has always been the black sheep of her family, but she never thought they’d forget her entirely! But now, she’s snowed in all alone and two thieves are bent on robbing the family castle. There’s only one person close enough to come to her aid—the mysterious Englishman who recently leased the gamekeeper’s cottage. He’s rumored to be a viscount. He’s also rumored to be a murderer…
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene- Cornelius Harcourt, the Earl of Latchwood, has lost everything—his father, three brothers, his fortune, and nearly his will to live. When he saves a mysterious, beautiful woman, the lines of reality start to blur. Will he discover he really had a wonderful life, and will Imogen St. Croix finally be granted what she’s dreamed of for a hundred years, her wings?
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite- Claire Meyer has studied special exercises to help those afflicted with injuries. When she is asked to attend to a recluse in the Cotswolds, she soon learns that the Earl of Darville’s issues aren’t physical. Can there be a miracle in time for Christmas?
How the Belle Stole Christmas features eight brand new, spicy romances to heat up your holiday. So go ahead, treat yourself this year!
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers- Maria, Lady Talbot, has fallen in love again with the dashing Viscount Balwyn. Unfortunately, Balwyn’s family doesn’t think Maria is viscountess material. What better way to prove her suitability than hosting them for the holidays? It’s going to be perfect… until absolutely everything goes wrong!
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold- Silas Frostwick, The Earl of Coldharbor, hates Christmas. It’s taken too much from him, and he’s become a recluse. But when he is visited by three ghosts, who show him how much his choices have hurt those who love him, he realizes he must make amends. Will Grace Hollybrook, the upstairs maid he’d once been passionately in love with, let him prove he’s a changed man?
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque- Once the last child leaves the nest, the duke and duchess’s marriage of convenience is over—that was the deal. But when a Christmas celebration turns perilous, they must fight not just for their lives, but for a love they thought had never touched their marriage.
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane- Sir Nicholas Bowen is a silver alchemist and charming rogue by day and a masked do-gooder by night. He’s enraged when he learns that the toys he left for a group of orphans on Christmas Eve were thrown out by a cruel duke. This year, Nico isn’t going to let that happen, despite the warnings of a prim and pretty governess who could discover his identity with a single kiss…
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill- Catriona McCallister has always been the black sheep of her family, but she never thought they’d forget her entirely! But now, she’s snowed in all alone and two thieves are bent on robbing the family castle. There’s only one person close enough to come to her aid—the mysterious Englishman who recently leased the gamekeeper’s cottage. He’s rumored to be a viscount. He’s also rumored to be a murderer…
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene- Cornelius Harcourt, the Earl of Latchwood, has lost everything—his father, three brothers, his fortune, and nearly his will to live. When he saves a mysterious, beautiful woman, the lines of reality start to blur. Will he discover he really had a wonderful life, and will Imogen St. Croix finally be granted what she’s dreamed of for a hundred years, her wings?
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite- Claire Meyer has studied special exercises to help those afflicted with injuries. When she is asked to attend to a recluse in the Cotswolds, she soon learns that the Earl of Darville’s issues aren’t physical. Can there be a miracle in time for Christmas?
How the Belle Stole Christmas features eight brand new, spicy romances to heat up your holiday. So go ahead, treat yourself this year!
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Published October 7, 2025
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About the author
Kathleen Ayers
41 books641 followersKathleen Ayers has been a hopeful romantic since the tender age of fourteen when she first purchased a copy of Sweet Savage Love at a garage sale while her mother was looking at antique animal planters. Since then she’s read hundreds of historical romances and fallen in love dozens of times. In particular she adores handsome, slightly damaged men with a wicked sense of humor. On paper, of course.
Kathleen lives in Houston and is married with one college aged son and two very spoiled dogs.
Kathleen lives in Houston and is married with one college aged son and two very spoiled dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 2, 2025
A brilliant Christmas novella anthology!
Seven stories – all of them classic movie retellings, all of them different and every single one utterly delicious!
I loved the wide variety of tropes, flavour and colour! There’s a little bit of everything and I most definitely could not put it down!
If you consider buying just one book for the season, don’t hesitate, this is it!
Here's an overview and some of my thoughts:
Lady Talbot's Perfectly Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
What to expect
A winter storm seaside setting, widow x widower, house party fling turned true love, a 15-year age gap, his bitchy daughter and sister, Murphy’s Law, chewy pugs, inedible food, superstition, unwelcome surprise guests, a rash, and a good doctor
Why I loved it
A family gathering from hell! The way all her careful planning and good intentions turn into one big farcical mess is hilarious, and the ending is simply is chef’s kiss!
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold
What to expect
A Scroogy earl, a wise but wary maid, nightmares, regret, heartbreak, a loving nephew, a sick little girl, frosted windows, a miracle mouse, a trip to the slums, redemption and a gorgeous heartwarming second chance at love
Why I loved it
What’s not to love? It’s a beautiful, heartfelt A Christmas Carol retelling – Dickens vibes and all.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
What to expect
Best friends stuck in a cold arranged marriage for 30 years, a scarred ex-military silver fox duke, a force of nature Scottish duchess, unrequited love, a Christmas house party invaded by murderous villains, secret passageways, passionate rekindling and tender confessions, danger, action and clever war games
Why I loved it
Need I say more? All of the above!
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
What to expect
A foundling hospital, a powerless duke’s by-blow taking control, a man looking for purpose, cute kids, red stockings, a glamouring duke, silver toys, potions, special gifts, garden proposals and workbench dares, five Kringle brothers, a donkey and a fox. Third time’s the charm!
Why I loved it
My romantasy unicorn – not my regular hangout, but because it’s signature Charlie Lane sizzle & spark, I happily broaden my horizon!
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
What to expect
The snow-covered Isle of Skye, a Highland hoyden, a scholarly viscount, secret pen pals, history lovers, eggs & bacon, broadswords, viking treasure, naughty books, music & dancing, indoor golf, boobytraps, and a talking raven
Why I loved it
It’s witty, action-packed and utterly endearing! What’s more charming than two nerdy virgins joining their creative forces to fend off evil?
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene
What to expect
A London winter wonderland, a dilapidated manor, a guardian angel waiting for her wings, an earl dreading his 35th birthday, spontaneous diving, a family curse, 4 orphaned little girls, snow angels, cake, dolls and impromptu balls
Why I loved it
This story gave me all the feels! Tears, laughter, heartache, joy and hope – it’s pure found family delight!
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite
What to expect
Snowed in, a gentle bred physiotherapist, a scarred war veteran earl, slutty little gasses, billiards, Jekyll & Hyde, library accidents and uncomfortable stiffness
Why I loved it
This one was delectable! The tension, the negotiating, the pushing boundaries, her insightfulness and his inner repressed rake ready to rumble. I loved his dark & twisty with a gooey centre!
Seven stories – all of them classic movie retellings, all of them different and every single one utterly delicious!
I loved the wide variety of tropes, flavour and colour! There’s a little bit of everything and I most definitely could not put it down!
If you consider buying just one book for the season, don’t hesitate, this is it!
Here's an overview and some of my thoughts:
Lady Talbot's Perfectly Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
What to expect
A winter storm seaside setting, widow x widower, house party fling turned true love, a 15-year age gap, his bitchy daughter and sister, Murphy’s Law, chewy pugs, inedible food, superstition, unwelcome surprise guests, a rash, and a good doctor
Why I loved it
A family gathering from hell! The way all her careful planning and good intentions turn into one big farcical mess is hilarious, and the ending is simply is chef’s kiss!
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold
What to expect
A Scroogy earl, a wise but wary maid, nightmares, regret, heartbreak, a loving nephew, a sick little girl, frosted windows, a miracle mouse, a trip to the slums, redemption and a gorgeous heartwarming second chance at love
Why I loved it
What’s not to love? It’s a beautiful, heartfelt A Christmas Carol retelling – Dickens vibes and all.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
What to expect
Best friends stuck in a cold arranged marriage for 30 years, a scarred ex-military silver fox duke, a force of nature Scottish duchess, unrequited love, a Christmas house party invaded by murderous villains, secret passageways, passionate rekindling and tender confessions, danger, action and clever war games
Why I loved it
Need I say more? All of the above!
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
What to expect
A foundling hospital, a powerless duke’s by-blow taking control, a man looking for purpose, cute kids, red stockings, a glamouring duke, silver toys, potions, special gifts, garden proposals and workbench dares, five Kringle brothers, a donkey and a fox. Third time’s the charm!
Why I loved it
My romantasy unicorn – not my regular hangout, but because it’s signature Charlie Lane sizzle & spark, I happily broaden my horizon!
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
What to expect
The snow-covered Isle of Skye, a Highland hoyden, a scholarly viscount, secret pen pals, history lovers, eggs & bacon, broadswords, viking treasure, naughty books, music & dancing, indoor golf, boobytraps, and a talking raven
Why I loved it
It’s witty, action-packed and utterly endearing! What’s more charming than two nerdy virgins joining their creative forces to fend off evil?
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene
What to expect
A London winter wonderland, a dilapidated manor, a guardian angel waiting for her wings, an earl dreading his 35th birthday, spontaneous diving, a family curse, 4 orphaned little girls, snow angels, cake, dolls and impromptu balls
Why I loved it
This story gave me all the feels! Tears, laughter, heartache, joy and hope – it’s pure found family delight!
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite
What to expect
Snowed in, a gentle bred physiotherapist, a scarred war veteran earl, slutty little gasses, billiards, Jekyll & Hyde, library accidents and uncomfortable stiffness
Why I loved it
This one was delectable! The tension, the negotiating, the pushing boundaries, her insightfulness and his inner repressed rake ready to rumble. I loved his dark & twisty with a gooey centre!
February 12, 2026
LADY TALBOT’S PERFECTLY TERRIBLE HOLIDAY KATHLEEN AYERS which is a take on National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
5/5 I love Kathleen Ayers stories, she made a movie I HATE with a passion an enjoyable story. Horrible relatives, nothing working out right, and a cook that cannot cook in the most horrible way but also funny. Poor Maria is trying to make a good impression on her loves family as she knows they find her unsuitable. Nothing works out right for her but she comes to realize that she only really cares that Balwyn is happy. I was expecting the sister of the Duke from last series August book but was really happy with Maria's happy ending. She is such a lovely character. She is so kind and thoughtful and loves love.
A CAROL OF GRACE DIANA BOLD retelling of a christmas carol
4/5 I really like a Christmas Carol and this was a pretty faithful retelling but with a romantic twist. It is open door at the end which I was not expecting at all. Silas and Grace are brought back together by the Ghosts which help him realize the true meaning life and Christmas.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque retelling of Die Hard
3/5 I will preface this by saying I don't think this movie is a Christmas movie. But this is again a good retelling, I knew by the title but also all the events what this was with Romance of course. It was okay to me.
NAUGHTY FOR SIR NICHOLAS by CHARLIE LANE
4/5 I honestly don't know what this is based on lol. I googled it to try to figure it out but couldn't. It was very christmasy though. An orphanage of kids cold and in need of toys and Saint Nico has the goods to help make their christmas special. It was still sexy and hot. These alchemist are the things made of dream, they have to work out their frustrations some how ^.- I just thought it was wrapped up a little too easily with her brother at the very end.
HOME UNCHAPERONED by COURTNEY MCCASKILL Home Alone
5/5 A really fun take on Home Alone. We have an intellectual outdoorsy gal and academic who come together about artifacts her family has. It was the right amount of silly as well. I like that they were both virgins. Its nice to see a couple explore sex.
MIRACLE IN MAYFAIR by CECILIA RENE It's a wonderful life
I don't like It's a wonderful life at all...
3.75/5 I did like the idea of helping someone that feels lost and that acknowledging their love for their family and those around them being an avenue for romance. The romance didn't feel forced and I liked the the ML and his family. But there was a lot of God talk for an open door book. It was a little too much for me lol. Maybe cause it wasn't naughty church talk but real spiritual church talk that it got to me.
SUGAR PLUMS AND THE CHRISTMAS CURMUDGEON BY TABETHA WAITE
2.5/5 The pacing just seemed off in this. I did like that this was around a physical therapist and an injured man. Physical Therapy changed people's lives. I am not sure what story this might be based off of honestly. Claire shows up at Ethan's house at the instruction of his family to help him with his injury from war. As she works to improve his leg, they are in lust and then in love.
I think I missed the Brazen Belle's gossip column in this group of stories but solid over all!
5/5 I love Kathleen Ayers stories, she made a movie I HATE with a passion an enjoyable story. Horrible relatives, nothing working out right, and a cook that cannot cook in the most horrible way but also funny. Poor Maria is trying to make a good impression on her loves family as she knows they find her unsuitable. Nothing works out right for her but she comes to realize that she only really cares that Balwyn is happy. I was expecting the sister of the Duke from last series August book but was really happy with Maria's happy ending. She is such a lovely character. She is so kind and thoughtful and loves love.
A CAROL OF GRACE DIANA BOLD retelling of a christmas carol
4/5 I really like a Christmas Carol and this was a pretty faithful retelling but with a romantic twist. It is open door at the end which I was not expecting at all. Silas and Grace are brought back together by the Ghosts which help him realize the true meaning life and Christmas.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque retelling of Die Hard
3/5 I will preface this by saying I don't think this movie is a Christmas movie. But this is again a good retelling, I knew by the title but also all the events what this was with Romance of course. It was okay to me.
NAUGHTY FOR SIR NICHOLAS by CHARLIE LANE
4/5 I honestly don't know what this is based on lol. I googled it to try to figure it out but couldn't. It was very christmasy though. An orphanage of kids cold and in need of toys and Saint Nico has the goods to help make their christmas special. It was still sexy and hot. These alchemist are the things made of dream, they have to work out their frustrations some how ^.- I just thought it was wrapped up a little too easily with her brother at the very end.
HOME UNCHAPERONED by COURTNEY MCCASKILL Home Alone
5/5 A really fun take on Home Alone. We have an intellectual outdoorsy gal and academic who come together about artifacts her family has. It was the right amount of silly as well. I like that they were both virgins. Its nice to see a couple explore sex.
MIRACLE IN MAYFAIR by CECILIA RENE It's a wonderful life
I don't like It's a wonderful life at all...
3.75/5 I did like the idea of helping someone that feels lost and that acknowledging their love for their family and those around them being an avenue for romance. The romance didn't feel forced and I liked the the ML and his family. But there was a lot of God talk for an open door book. It was a little too much for me lol. Maybe cause it wasn't naughty church talk but real spiritual church talk that it got to me.
SUGAR PLUMS AND THE CHRISTMAS CURMUDGEON BY TABETHA WAITE
2.5/5 The pacing just seemed off in this. I did like that this was around a physical therapist and an injured man. Physical Therapy changed people's lives. I am not sure what story this might be based off of honestly. Claire shows up at Ethan's house at the instruction of his family to help him with his injury from war. As she works to improve his leg, they are in lust and then in love.
I think I missed the Brazen Belle's gossip column in this group of stories but solid over all!
October 28, 2025
I will start off saying, I am truthfully not a fan of these anthologies. They are just too short and rarely do authors get much depth in them but there are quite a few of my favorites authors in this one so I went ahead and got it. Plus the spin from other popular stories sounded interesting. There are 8 authors in this Anthology but I only read 5 authors on the list so those were the only stories I read.
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers - I love Kathleen Ayers' writing. This is my 32nd book by her. I read one of her books in 2016 but didn't picked her up again faithfully in 2019 and now she is one of my top favorite authors. For my birthday a few years ago, my DIL bought some of my favorite Kathleen Ayers books and met with her to personally sign them for me. What a fantastic gift and I'll always treasure them. She has such hot and yummy sex in her books. Always a sign of a good book. 😊 I really loved Maria and Balwyn's story. It was so different, so funny, so good. Really good read.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque - I started reading Sadie Bosque in June 2021. This is my 21st book by her. I enjoy her writing and her stories and have liked the other books in this series. I really liked this book. I loved the story and the couple. It was a fun read.
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane - This is only my 10th book by Charlie Lane. I read my first book of hers in Jan, 2021. This was an interesting story.
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene - So Cecilia Rene is a fairly new author. This is only my 9th book by her. I started reading her in Sept 2021. From what I've read so far, I have loved her storylines and the characters. Her books have been well written and she put just the right amount of angst, anger, sex and love in all the right places. This was a good read. Interesting spin of It's a Wonderful Life.
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite - This is my 40th book by Tabetha Waite and I started reading her back in June, 2020. I love her writing and have never have a bad read. She will always be special to me as I actually met her and had lunch with her. Once year she took a family vacation and knew it was only an hour or so away from me, so she took time out of her family vacation to meet with me and my husband. So nice! So Tabetha is a huge fan of Beauty and the Beast so no surprise this had that twist. Good read. I enjoyed it.
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers - I love Kathleen Ayers' writing. This is my 32nd book by her. I read one of her books in 2016 but didn't picked her up again faithfully in 2019 and now she is one of my top favorite authors. For my birthday a few years ago, my DIL bought some of my favorite Kathleen Ayers books and met with her to personally sign them for me. What a fantastic gift and I'll always treasure them. She has such hot and yummy sex in her books. Always a sign of a good book. 😊 I really loved Maria and Balwyn's story. It was so different, so funny, so good. Really good read.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque - I started reading Sadie Bosque in June 2021. This is my 21st book by her. I enjoy her writing and her stories and have liked the other books in this series. I really liked this book. I loved the story and the couple. It was a fun read.
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane - This is only my 10th book by Charlie Lane. I read my first book of hers in Jan, 2021. This was an interesting story.
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene - So Cecilia Rene is a fairly new author. This is only my 9th book by her. I started reading her in Sept 2021. From what I've read so far, I have loved her storylines and the characters. Her books have been well written and she put just the right amount of angst, anger, sex and love in all the right places. This was a good read. Interesting spin of It's a Wonderful Life.
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite - This is my 40th book by Tabetha Waite and I started reading her back in June, 2020. I love her writing and have never have a bad read. She will always be special to me as I actually met her and had lunch with her. Once year she took a family vacation and knew it was only an hour or so away from me, so she took time out of her family vacation to meet with me and my husband. So nice! So Tabetha is a huge fan of Beauty and the Beast so no surprise this had that twist. Good read. I enjoyed it.
October 5, 2025
This is the perfect collection of Holiday novellas! There are seven stories inside, retellings of classic holiday movies, set in eras of historical fiction. I thought it would be a fantastic concept, and I loved seeing the boundless creativity! In the interest of space, here are mini reviews of four of the stories.
“Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday” by Kathleen Ayers is set at the seaside, featuring an unconventional love story between a widow and a widower, who found a deep and instantaneous connection at a house party. His sister and daughter work from early on to try and thwart their relationship and she sets out to host the perfect dinner party . The historical take on the absolutely comedy of errors from “Christmas Vacation” was so well done, animals included!
“A Carol of Grace” by Diana Bold features an Earl who is quite a Scrooge. He’s visited by his late father on Christmas Eve, and led through the visits from the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. He discovers a devastating secret involving a moment from his past and upon waking, is in a high stakes situation to make it right. A really fantastic Christmas Carol retelling in short story form.
“Duke Hard” by Sadie Bosque is about a couple recently separated who had had a mostly unromantic arranged marriage. She is at a Christmas ball And he is coming in late, wishing to win her back. What follows is a Regency take on “Diehard” and it is perfectly done. Villains, secret passageways, and bare feet included!!
“Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon” by Tabitha Waite
features a grinchy, reclusive Earl who suffered a devastating war injury, and has been hiding in his home for years. His aunt has sent a woman, skilled with modern healing techniques, to try to improve her nephews mobility and demeanor. What follows is a wonderful brooding MMC and an unconventional, nurturing FMC, navigating surprisingly emotional tenderness through caretaking. And her seeing him as a man and not a patient. There is an element of Jekyll/Hyde with the Earl , as well as maybe a little bit of Lara Croft in the FMCs demeanor.
Don’t miss out on this little anthology!!
“Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday” by Kathleen Ayers is set at the seaside, featuring an unconventional love story between a widow and a widower, who found a deep and instantaneous connection at a house party. His sister and daughter work from early on to try and thwart their relationship and she sets out to host the perfect dinner party . The historical take on the absolutely comedy of errors from “Christmas Vacation” was so well done, animals included!
“A Carol of Grace” by Diana Bold features an Earl who is quite a Scrooge. He’s visited by his late father on Christmas Eve, and led through the visits from the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. He discovers a devastating secret involving a moment from his past and upon waking, is in a high stakes situation to make it right. A really fantastic Christmas Carol retelling in short story form.
“Duke Hard” by Sadie Bosque is about a couple recently separated who had had a mostly unromantic arranged marriage. She is at a Christmas ball And he is coming in late, wishing to win her back. What follows is a Regency take on “Diehard” and it is perfectly done. Villains, secret passageways, and bare feet included!!
“Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon” by Tabitha Waite
features a grinchy, reclusive Earl who suffered a devastating war injury, and has been hiding in his home for years. His aunt has sent a woman, skilled with modern healing techniques, to try to improve her nephews mobility and demeanor. What follows is a wonderful brooding MMC and an unconventional, nurturing FMC, navigating surprisingly emotional tenderness through caretaking. And her seeing him as a man and not a patient. There is an element of Jekyll/Hyde with the Earl , as well as maybe a little bit of Lara Croft in the FMCs demeanor.
Don’t miss out on this little anthology!!
November 26, 2025
A brilliant Christmas novella anthology!
Seven stories – all of them classic movie retellings, all of them different and every single one utterly delicious!
I loved the wide variety of tropes, flavour and colour! There’s a little bit of everything and I most definitely could not put it down!
If you consider buying just one book for the season, don’t hesitate, this is it!
Here's an overview and some of my thoughts:
Lady Talbot's Perfectly Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
What to expect
A winter storm seaside setting, widow x widower, house party fling turned true love, a 15-year age gap, his bitchy daughter and sister, Murphy’s Law, chewy pugs, inedible food, superstition, unwelcome surprise guests, a rash, and a good doctor
Why I loved it
A family gathering from hell! The way all her careful planning and good intentions turn into one big farcical mess is hilarious, and the ending is simply is chef’s kiss!
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold
What to expect
A Scroogy earl, a wise but wary maid, nightmares, regret, heartbreak, a loving nephew, a sick little girl, frosted windows, a miracle mouse, a trip to the slums, redemption and a gorgeous heartwarming second chance at love
Why I loved it
What’s not to love? It’s a beautiful, heartfelt A Christmas Carol retelling – Dickens vibes and all.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
What to expect
Best friends stuck in a cold arranged marriage for 30 years, a scarred ex-military silver fox duke, a force of nature Scottish duchess, unrequited love, a Christmas house party invaded by murderous villains, secret passageways, passionate rekindling and tender confessions, danger, action and clever war games
Why I loved it
Need I say more? All of the above!
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
What to expect
A foundling hospital, a powerless duke’s by-blow taking control, a man looking for purpose, cute kids, red stockings, a glamouring duke, silver toys, potions, special gifts, garden proposals and workbench dares, five Kringle brothers, a donkey and a fox. Third time’s the charm!
Why I loved it
My romantasy unicorn – not my regular hangout, but because it’s signature Charlie Lane sizzle & spark, I happily broaden my horizon!
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
What to expect
The snow-covered Isle of Skye, a Highland hoyden, a scholarly viscount, secret pen pals, history lovers, eggs & bacon, broadswords, viking treasure, naughty books, music & dancing, indoor golf, boobytraps, and a talking raven
Why I loved it
It’s witty, action-packed and utterly endearing! What’s more charming than two nerdy virgins joining their creative forces to fend off evil?
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene
What to expect
A London winter wonderland, a dilapidated manor, a guardian angel waiting for her wings, an earl dreading his 35th birthday, spontaneous diving, a family curse, 4 orphaned little girls, snow angels, cake, dolls and impromptu balls
Why I loved it
This story gave me all the feels! Tears, laughter, heartache, joy and hope – it’s pure found family delight!
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite
What to expect
Snowed in, a gentle bred physiotherapist, a scarred war veteran earl, slutty little gasses, billiards, Jekyll & Hyde, library accidents and uncomfortable stiffness
Why I loved it
This one was delectable! The tension, the negotiating, the pushing boundaries, her insightfulness and his inner repressed rake ready to rumble. I loved his dark & twisty with a gooey centre!
Seven stories – all of them classic movie retellings, all of them different and every single one utterly delicious!
I loved the wide variety of tropes, flavour and colour! There’s a little bit of everything and I most definitely could not put it down!
If you consider buying just one book for the season, don’t hesitate, this is it!
Here's an overview and some of my thoughts:
Lady Talbot's Perfectly Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
What to expect
A winter storm seaside setting, widow x widower, house party fling turned true love, a 15-year age gap, his bitchy daughter and sister, Murphy’s Law, chewy pugs, inedible food, superstition, unwelcome surprise guests, a rash, and a good doctor
Why I loved it
A family gathering from hell! The way all her careful planning and good intentions turn into one big farcical mess is hilarious, and the ending is simply is chef’s kiss!
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold
What to expect
A Scroogy earl, a wise but wary maid, nightmares, regret, heartbreak, a loving nephew, a sick little girl, frosted windows, a miracle mouse, a trip to the slums, redemption and a gorgeous heartwarming second chance at love
Why I loved it
What’s not to love? It’s a beautiful, heartfelt A Christmas Carol retelling – Dickens vibes and all.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
What to expect
Best friends stuck in a cold arranged marriage for 30 years, a scarred ex-military silver fox duke, a force of nature Scottish duchess, unrequited love, a Christmas house party invaded by murderous villains, secret passageways, passionate rekindling and tender confessions, danger, action and clever war games
Why I loved it
Need I say more? All of the above!
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
What to expect
A foundling hospital, a powerless duke’s by-blow taking control, a man looking for purpose, cute kids, red stockings, a glamouring duke, silver toys, potions, special gifts, garden proposals and workbench dares, five Kringle brothers, a donkey and a fox. Third time’s the charm!
Why I loved it
My romantasy unicorn – not my regular hangout, but because it’s signature Charlie Lane sizzle & spark, I happily broaden my horizon!
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
What to expect
The snow-covered Isle of Skye, a Highland hoyden, a scholarly viscount, secret pen pals, history lovers, eggs & bacon, broadswords, viking treasure, naughty books, music & dancing, indoor golf, boobytraps, and a talking raven
Why I loved it
It’s witty, action-packed and utterly endearing! What’s more charming than two nerdy virgins joining their creative forces to fend off evil?
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene
What to expect
A London winter wonderland, a dilapidated manor, a guardian angel waiting for her wings, an earl dreading his 35th birthday, spontaneous diving, a family curse, 4 orphaned little girls, snow angels, cake, dolls and impromptu balls
Why I loved it
This story gave me all the feels! Tears, laughter, heartache, joy and hope – it’s pure found family delight!
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite
What to expect
Snowed in, a gentle bred physiotherapist, a scarred war veteran earl, slutty little gasses, billiards, Jekyll & Hyde, library accidents and uncomfortable stiffness
Why I loved it
This one was delectable! The tension, the negotiating, the pushing boundaries, her insightfulness and his inner repressed rake ready to rumble. I loved his dark & twisty with a gooey centre!
October 21, 2025
What a fun collection of Christmas stories..
I usually find it hard to sit through multiple Christmas stories without having to pause and going to another book and come back.. however this collection of stories was entertaining, enjoyable and fun to the point where I couldn't wait to read the next book in this collection..
I highly recommend this entire collection of Christmas stories!!
I usually find it hard to sit through multiple Christmas stories without having to pause and going to another book and come back.. however this collection of stories was entertaining, enjoyable and fun to the point where I couldn't wait to read the next book in this collection..
I highly recommend this entire collection of Christmas stories!!
October 13, 2025
Romance rating: 4. Sexy times rating: 2. The first 5 stories are fun retellings of Christmas movies. The 6th one i could tell what movie it was, but it just didn't hold my interest as much. The 7th one, unfortunately, i couldn't tell what movie it was supposed to be, and it just didn't work as a short story. I would have loved to see this as a full-length novel as the characters intrigued me, and the plot was good, but the change just came so suddenly it made very little sense. If it was spread out with more instances to change his position it would have been much better.
October 14, 2025
How the Belles Stole Christmas
An anthology
I haven’t enjoyed so many Christmas stories in a very long time. It was an enchanting compilation of novellas from a diverse number of popular romance authors. It had romance and love, even some of the villains turned out to be redeemable. But most of all it had magical moments of Christmas spirit. Enjoy it. Happy holidays to you all!!!
An anthology
I haven’t enjoyed so many Christmas stories in a very long time. It was an enchanting compilation of novellas from a diverse number of popular romance authors. It had romance and love, even some of the villains turned out to be redeemable. But most of all it had magical moments of Christmas spirit. Enjoy it. Happy holidays to you all!!!
October 6, 2025
What a delightful Christmas anthology this is, just in time for the holidays. Seven Yuletide stories from my most favorite authors, making an awesome collection in one book. A great fan of Charlie Lane, I loved her contribution of “Naughty for Sir Nicholas “ Such an endearing romance between an impoverished, illegitimate Duke’s daughter, trying to keep an orphanage going, and the very dear Sir Nicholas, an Alchemist, who loved her from a far and made silver toys to sneak into the children of the orphanage on Christmas Eve. I didn’t know anything about “Alchemists” and this story is quite magical.
Another favorite of mine, is Kathleen Ayers, as her stories never disappoint, and this one certainly delights! “Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday” is fast paced and very witty. Maria Talbot is a widow that falls madly in love with an older man, Lord Victor Balwyn, and he with her. Too bad that his sister and daughter don’t feel the same about her. Trying to win them over, she invites them to her home for Christmas! What ensues after the guests arrival (those invited and those who were not) is pure chaos! Between horrible meals, bats in the house, unruly dogs , allergic and snarky relatives, it’s a total fiasco, but very entertaining ! In all fairness though, I think the pugs got a bad rap. My puggies are wonderful, and never drool or slobber! (That would be my basset hound)
All in all, this wonderful compilation of stories, each a five star in their own right, is well worth your time and money!
Another favorite of mine, is Kathleen Ayers, as her stories never disappoint, and this one certainly delights! “Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday” is fast paced and very witty. Maria Talbot is a widow that falls madly in love with an older man, Lord Victor Balwyn, and he with her. Too bad that his sister and daughter don’t feel the same about her. Trying to win them over, she invites them to her home for Christmas! What ensues after the guests arrival (those invited and those who were not) is pure chaos! Between horrible meals, bats in the house, unruly dogs , allergic and snarky relatives, it’s a total fiasco, but very entertaining ! In all fairness though, I think the pugs got a bad rap. My puggies are wonderful, and never drool or slobber! (That would be my basset hound)
All in all, this wonderful compilation of stories, each a five star in their own right, is well worth your time and money!
October 10, 2025
I have only just begun and I need to savor each of these stories. These are authors I know and trust with my heart, knowing they will break it and mend it lovingly. I will come back to edit this review as I read but I have complete faith that I will love them all.
Naughty for Nicholas
Charlie Lane’s first foray into historical Gaslamp romance takes all the elements you love in regency and kicks it up a notch with a little magic & alchemy. This world will blend all the wonder and excitement of magic, while staying true to the heart of the romanticism that we’re all here for. Sir Nicholas is an alchemist, transforming silver into toys for less fortunate children. Jane is the illegitimate sister of a Duke, exiled to the foundling home where she cares for the children. It’s love at first sight, even if her first sight was his backside (a man’s worth can often be found in a nice rump, lol). The flirtatious banter, the witty retorts and the utter devotion of these two will win you over in a heartbeat. Add in a passel of delightful children, some tender hearted brutes and even a misguided brother and you have a story that will suck you into this new world with glee. I know you will love Lane’s world of alchemy as much as I do.
Naughty for Nicholas
Charlie Lane’s first foray into historical Gaslamp romance takes all the elements you love in regency and kicks it up a notch with a little magic & alchemy. This world will blend all the wonder and excitement of magic, while staying true to the heart of the romanticism that we’re all here for. Sir Nicholas is an alchemist, transforming silver into toys for less fortunate children. Jane is the illegitimate sister of a Duke, exiled to the foundling home where she cares for the children. It’s love at first sight, even if her first sight was his backside (a man’s worth can often be found in a nice rump, lol). The flirtatious banter, the witty retorts and the utter devotion of these two will win you over in a heartbeat. Add in a passel of delightful children, some tender hearted brutes and even a misguided brother and you have a story that will suck you into this new world with glee. I know you will love Lane’s world of alchemy as much as I do.
November 12, 2025
This Regency anthology delivers a festive feast of second chances, secret identities, and snowy surprises. Whether you’re craving ghosts of Christmas past or a governess with a spine of steel, these novellas unwrap love in all its messy, magical glory.
✨ Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers ✨ - Maria Talbot is determined to prove she’s viscountess material, armed with holly, ham, and high hopes. But when her picture-perfect holiday implodes in spectacular fashion, it’s her heart (and humor) that might just win the day. A charming chaos of manners, mishaps, and mistletoe.
👻 A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold 👻 - A haunted earl, a heartbroken maid, and a trio of ghosts walk into a Regency Christmas… and what follows is a tender, redemptive twist on Dickens with a romantic core. Grace and Silas’s story is a quiet ache turned hopeful hymn.
🔥 Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque 🎁 - This one simmers. A marriage of convenience turns survival story, then a slow-burn revelation, as a duke and duchess face danger, and their own buried feelings, during a Christmas gone sideways. Emotional, intimate, and unexpectedly fierce.
🎭 Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane 🎭 - Masked mischief, alchemical flirtation, and a governess who sees through more than disguises, this romp is equal parts Robin Hood and Regency rogue. Sir Nicholas is naughty, noble, and entirely swoonworthy.
🏰 Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill 🏰 - Snowed in, forgotten by her family, and facing down thieves, Catriona’s Christmas is anything but cozy, until a mysterious neighbor with a scandalous past arrives. This one’s got gothic flair, banter, and a heroine who saves herself (and maybe her heart).
🕊 Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene 🕊 - A grieving earl, a woman out of time, and a love that defies logic, this story is ethereal, aching, and quietly magical. Imogen and Cornelius’s connection, feels like a whispered wish come true.
🎄 Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite🎄- Claire’s determined to heal the reclusive Earl of Darville, but it’s his heart, not his body, that needs mending. A cozy, grumpy-sunshine delight with just enough spice to warm your cocoa.
✨ Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers ✨ - Maria Talbot is determined to prove she’s viscountess material, armed with holly, ham, and high hopes. But when her picture-perfect holiday implodes in spectacular fashion, it’s her heart (and humor) that might just win the day. A charming chaos of manners, mishaps, and mistletoe.
👻 A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold 👻 - A haunted earl, a heartbroken maid, and a trio of ghosts walk into a Regency Christmas… and what follows is a tender, redemptive twist on Dickens with a romantic core. Grace and Silas’s story is a quiet ache turned hopeful hymn.
🔥 Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque 🎁 - This one simmers. A marriage of convenience turns survival story, then a slow-burn revelation, as a duke and duchess face danger, and their own buried feelings, during a Christmas gone sideways. Emotional, intimate, and unexpectedly fierce.
🎭 Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane 🎭 - Masked mischief, alchemical flirtation, and a governess who sees through more than disguises, this romp is equal parts Robin Hood and Regency rogue. Sir Nicholas is naughty, noble, and entirely swoonworthy.
🏰 Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill 🏰 - Snowed in, forgotten by her family, and facing down thieves, Catriona’s Christmas is anything but cozy, until a mysterious neighbor with a scandalous past arrives. This one’s got gothic flair, banter, and a heroine who saves herself (and maybe her heart).
🕊 Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene 🕊 - A grieving earl, a woman out of time, and a love that defies logic, this story is ethereal, aching, and quietly magical. Imogen and Cornelius’s connection, feels like a whispered wish come true.
🎄 Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite🎄- Claire’s determined to heal the reclusive Earl of Darville, but it’s his heart, not his body, that needs mending. A cozy, grumpy-sunshine delight with just enough spice to warm your cocoa.
October 7, 2025
I absolutely adore a good Christmas anthology, and I’m thrilled I kicked off my festive reading with this delightful collection! This festive treasure trove features seven spicy historical romances, each reimagining classic Christmas movies with thrilling twists of ghosts, thieves, masked heroes, and holiday miracles. Every story is a gem, bursting with festive charm and historical flair, capturing the spirit of Christmas in unique, heartwarming ways.
While I loved them all, a few became instant favorites! I highly recommend curling up with this collection and a cup of hot cocoa—you won’t be disappointed!
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
This story had me laughing out loud! It’s the perfect reminder that sometimes, when you strive for perfection, everything hilariously falls apart. Lady Talbot is head over heels for Viscount Balwyn, but his sister and daughter don’t believe she’s worthy of him. Determined to impress, she plans the perfect Christmas dinner—a delightful nod to Christmas Vacation. The mishaps are laugh-out-loud funny, but the heart of the story shines through as Balwyn remains steadfast, never letting anyone sway his affection.
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold
A masterful twist on A Christmas Carol, this tale introduces Silas Frostwick, the Earl of Coldharbor—a true humbug who’s closed his heart after enduring heartbreaking losses at Christmastime. When ghosts from his past visit, alongside a touching message from his father, Silas is faced with the opportunity for redemption and a second chance with the woman he’s never stopped loving. This hauntingly beautiful story, filled with regret, forgiveness, and even a miracle mouse, melted my heart.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
What a thrilling, heartfelt ride! Imagine Die Hard set in a historical romance—action-packed and emotionally intense. After 30 years of an arranged (but happy) marriage, a Duke and his Duchess decide to part ways. But when villains seize the Christmas party she’s attending, he realizes he can’t let her go. Secret passages, daring rescues, heartfelt confessions, and tactical showdowns make this an unforgettable tale of fighting for love amidst danger.
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
Sir Nicholas Bowen is part charming rogue, part masked hero—a silver alchemist with a heart of gold. After discovering the Duke of the foundling hospital discarded gifts meant for orphans, he’s determined to right the wrong, even if it means outsmarting guards and risking exposure. Add a prim governess who could unveil his true identity with just one kiss, and the sparks fly! This gaslight fantasy is rich with magical elements, dashing adventures, and a romance that left me swooning.
This novella brilliantly introduces a richly crafted world that blends historical elements with fantastical flair. The immersive world-building is both vivid and intriguing, yet it’s the tender, compelling love story that truly shines. Charlie Lane once again delivers a story filled with dynamic characters, exquisite prose, and heartfelt romance—captivating, enchanting, and utterly unforgettable.
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
Think Home Alone, but with a historical twist! Catriona McCallister has always been the overlooked member of her family, but she never imagined they’d forget her entirely and head off to Paris without her. Snowed in and left to her own devices, she soon discovers she’s not as alone as she thought—two scheming thieves have their eyes on the valuable artifacts she recently uncovered.
Enter the enigmatic Englishman who’s just taken up residence in the nearby gamekeeper’s cottage. Rumored to be a viscount—and whispered to be a murderer—Will is the only one within reach who might help Catriona. Despite the ominous rumors, he steps up, and what unfolds is a delightful blend of adventure, intrigue, and unexpected romance.
This story is a wonderfully fun and humorous read. Catriona’s unexpected solitude turns into an adventure filled with thrilling twists and heartwarming moments. The dynamic between Catriona and Will is both captivating and charming, making their journey feel like the perfect Christmas miracle. A thoroughly enjoyable tale that blends mystery, romance, and a dash of holiday magic.
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene
Cornelius Harcourt, the 10th Earl of Latchwood, has suffered unimaginable loss. When he rescues a mysterious woman, his world shifts, blurring the lines between reality and the miraculous. With angels, dreams, and heartwarming miracles, this magical romance beautifully echoes It’s a Wonderful Life, reminding us that hope and love can light even the darkest days.
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite
Claire Meyer, an expert in specialized exercises for severe injuries, takes on a new challenge when she’s called to assist a reclusive Earl in the Cotswolds. Expecting a physical ailment, she instead discovers that the Earl of Darville’s true struggles are emotional, rooted in a deep-seated grumpiness. As Christmas approaches, the question lingers: can a miracle soften his hardened heart?
This story was absolutely delectable! The tension crackles, the negotiations are sharp, and the boundary-pushing dynamics are both thrilling and heartwarming. Claire’s insightful nature perfectly complements Ethan’s repressed, rugged charm, making their interactions irresistibly engaging. I adored the 'grumpy meets sunshine' dynamic, enhanced by their witty banter. But what truly captured my heart was Ethan’s transformation—watching him heal and embrace life anew was deeply satisfying. This story stole my heart with its wit, warmth, and undeniable charm. Simply put, I loved, loved, loved this story!
I received an ARC (advanced review copy) for free and am sharing my thoughts voluntarily.
While I loved them all, a few became instant favorites! I highly recommend curling up with this collection and a cup of hot cocoa—you won’t be disappointed!
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
This story had me laughing out loud! It’s the perfect reminder that sometimes, when you strive for perfection, everything hilariously falls apart. Lady Talbot is head over heels for Viscount Balwyn, but his sister and daughter don’t believe she’s worthy of him. Determined to impress, she plans the perfect Christmas dinner—a delightful nod to Christmas Vacation. The mishaps are laugh-out-loud funny, but the heart of the story shines through as Balwyn remains steadfast, never letting anyone sway his affection.
A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold
A masterful twist on A Christmas Carol, this tale introduces Silas Frostwick, the Earl of Coldharbor—a true humbug who’s closed his heart after enduring heartbreaking losses at Christmastime. When ghosts from his past visit, alongside a touching message from his father, Silas is faced with the opportunity for redemption and a second chance with the woman he’s never stopped loving. This hauntingly beautiful story, filled with regret, forgiveness, and even a miracle mouse, melted my heart.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
What a thrilling, heartfelt ride! Imagine Die Hard set in a historical romance—action-packed and emotionally intense. After 30 years of an arranged (but happy) marriage, a Duke and his Duchess decide to part ways. But when villains seize the Christmas party she’s attending, he realizes he can’t let her go. Secret passages, daring rescues, heartfelt confessions, and tactical showdowns make this an unforgettable tale of fighting for love amidst danger.
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
Sir Nicholas Bowen is part charming rogue, part masked hero—a silver alchemist with a heart of gold. After discovering the Duke of the foundling hospital discarded gifts meant for orphans, he’s determined to right the wrong, even if it means outsmarting guards and risking exposure. Add a prim governess who could unveil his true identity with just one kiss, and the sparks fly! This gaslight fantasy is rich with magical elements, dashing adventures, and a romance that left me swooning.
This novella brilliantly introduces a richly crafted world that blends historical elements with fantastical flair. The immersive world-building is both vivid and intriguing, yet it’s the tender, compelling love story that truly shines. Charlie Lane once again delivers a story filled with dynamic characters, exquisite prose, and heartfelt romance—captivating, enchanting, and utterly unforgettable.
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
Think Home Alone, but with a historical twist! Catriona McCallister has always been the overlooked member of her family, but she never imagined they’d forget her entirely and head off to Paris without her. Snowed in and left to her own devices, she soon discovers she’s not as alone as she thought—two scheming thieves have their eyes on the valuable artifacts she recently uncovered.
Enter the enigmatic Englishman who’s just taken up residence in the nearby gamekeeper’s cottage. Rumored to be a viscount—and whispered to be a murderer—Will is the only one within reach who might help Catriona. Despite the ominous rumors, he steps up, and what unfolds is a delightful blend of adventure, intrigue, and unexpected romance.
This story is a wonderfully fun and humorous read. Catriona’s unexpected solitude turns into an adventure filled with thrilling twists and heartwarming moments. The dynamic between Catriona and Will is both captivating and charming, making their journey feel like the perfect Christmas miracle. A thoroughly enjoyable tale that blends mystery, romance, and a dash of holiday magic.
Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene
Cornelius Harcourt, the 10th Earl of Latchwood, has suffered unimaginable loss. When he rescues a mysterious woman, his world shifts, blurring the lines between reality and the miraculous. With angels, dreams, and heartwarming miracles, this magical romance beautifully echoes It’s a Wonderful Life, reminding us that hope and love can light even the darkest days.
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite
Claire Meyer, an expert in specialized exercises for severe injuries, takes on a new challenge when she’s called to assist a reclusive Earl in the Cotswolds. Expecting a physical ailment, she instead discovers that the Earl of Darville’s true struggles are emotional, rooted in a deep-seated grumpiness. As Christmas approaches, the question lingers: can a miracle soften his hardened heart?
This story was absolutely delectable! The tension crackles, the negotiations are sharp, and the boundary-pushing dynamics are both thrilling and heartwarming. Claire’s insightful nature perfectly complements Ethan’s repressed, rugged charm, making their interactions irresistibly engaging. I adored the 'grumpy meets sunshine' dynamic, enhanced by their witty banter. But what truly captured my heart was Ethan’s transformation—watching him heal and embrace life anew was deeply satisfying. This story stole my heart with its wit, warmth, and undeniable charm. Simply put, I loved, loved, loved this story!
I received an ARC (advanced review copy) for free and am sharing my thoughts voluntarily.
November 20, 2025
Novella #1 - Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday 5/5
Excellent writing! Witty banter, well developed characters, just right amount of angst and steam for a novella.
Novella #2 - A Carol of Grace 3/5
An altogether uninspiring retelling of A Christmas Carol. Yawn.
Novella #3 - Duke Hard - 5/5
I’ve never seen Die Hard, so I missed the title reference and had to look up which Christmas story this novella was based on. Despite this lack of knowledge, this story stood on its own!
Novella #4 - Naughty for Sir Nicholas - 1/5
I really hated this novella
Novella #5 - Home Unchaperoned - 2/5
Virgin heroes just aren’t my jam
Novella #6 - Miracle in Mayfair 1/5
So boring that I DNFd because I just didn’t care/wasn’t engaged
Average 2.83, rounded up to 3
Overall, there were several that were really great, but others that were complete flops
Excellent writing! Witty banter, well developed characters, just right amount of angst and steam for a novella.
Novella #2 - A Carol of Grace 3/5
An altogether uninspiring retelling of A Christmas Carol. Yawn.
Novella #3 - Duke Hard - 5/5
I’ve never seen Die Hard, so I missed the title reference and had to look up which Christmas story this novella was based on. Despite this lack of knowledge, this story stood on its own!
Novella #4 - Naughty for Sir Nicholas - 1/5
I really hated this novella
Novella #5 - Home Unchaperoned - 2/5
Virgin heroes just aren’t my jam
Novella #6 - Miracle in Mayfair 1/5
So boring that I DNFd because I just didn’t care/wasn’t engaged
Average 2.83, rounded up to 3
Overall, there were several that were really great, but others that were complete flops
October 5, 2025
OMG!! WOW!! What a fantastic collection of Classic Christmas Movies turned into fabulous Historical Christmas Romance stories!! I absolutely loved this book and will be adding it to my must read list for every Christmas!! I laughed in some, I cried in others but overall had that warm and fuzzy Christmas feeling at the end of each story. I applaud all of the authors on a job well done for creating their own unique story!! I felt each story was really fantastic and incredibly awesome!! They are all definitely worth 5 stars!! This book was really fun, very entertaining and just absolutely a delightful read!! I highly recommend this book!!
November 12, 2025
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly Terrible Holiday – Kathleen Ayers
I am sure we have all experienced when one thing goes wrong everything goes wrong. Bless her heart, Maria experienced that in spades. I laughed and thought what else can collapse for this woman. Well, everything. It was funny but I also wanted to hit some over the head for their hijinks. A great take on Christmas Vacation.
Home Unchaperoned – Courtney McCaskill
Historical Home Alone that was too cute. This story was fun. Nerds rule!! I laughed a good bit during the story.
I am sure we have all experienced when one thing goes wrong everything goes wrong. Bless her heart, Maria experienced that in spades. I laughed and thought what else can collapse for this woman. Well, everything. It was funny but I also wanted to hit some over the head for their hijinks. A great take on Christmas Vacation.
Home Unchaperoned – Courtney McCaskill
Historical Home Alone that was too cute. This story was fun. Nerds rule!! I laughed a good bit during the story.
November 5, 2025
How the Belle Stole Christmas
Delightful set of stories by wonderful authors who bring historical romance to Christmas classic movies. Really enjoyable! Everyone should pick up a copy of this book.
Delightful set of stories by wonderful authors who bring historical romance to Christmas classic movies. Really enjoyable! Everyone should pick up a copy of this book.
December 8, 2025
Great read!
This is such a great way to try out new authors. The stories are a variety of different storylines. Get the book and delve into regency stories that all have an HEA.
This is such a great way to try out new authors. The stories are a variety of different storylines. Get the book and delve into regency stories that all have an HEA.
Currently reading
March 4, 2026Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday / Kathleen Ayers 3.5*
Duke Hard / Sadie Bosque
Naughty for Sir Nicholas / Charlie Lane
Home Unchaperoned / Courtney McCaskill
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon / Tabetha Waite
A Carol of Grace / Diana Bold 3.5*
Miracle in Mayfair / Cecilia Rene
Duke Hard / Sadie Bosque
Naughty for Sir Nicholas / Charlie Lane
Home Unchaperoned / Courtney McCaskill
Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon / Tabetha Waite
A Carol of Grace / Diana Bold 3.5*
Miracle in Mayfair / Cecilia Rene
October 5, 2025
First let me tell you that the idea of using Christmas movies as inspiration is GREAT! And the result in this case was equally great!
Then I’ll leave a review for all the novellas I read (I still hope to finish the book in the near future):
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
OMG! If you want a funny rom-com do read this novella! I laughed out loud alone at home and it rarely happens when I read a book. Gorgeously written, with very vivid and intriguing characters.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
This one was a real blast! A real action movie turned into historical romance. I really wish someone wrote more books like that! The love story (a wonderful second chance for two people who have been married for more than thirty years and grew apart because of life hardships) is perfectly intertwined with the action plot. Gorgeous novella!
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
Amazing novella that introduces a whole new world, partly historical and partly fantasy (they tell me this particular genre is called gaslight fantasy). The world building is wonderful and intriguing, but the love story is even more so. Great characters, gorgeous writing, everything I’ve come to expect from Lane.
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
I loved this cute novella so much! Catriona is so funny and gorgeous and I really had fun picturing her fighting the thieves like in the original Home Alone movie! I’m so happy she found the perfect match in William because she really deserved it. The action is wonderfully vivid and the characters are perfectly fleshed-out.
Then I’ll leave a review for all the novellas I read (I still hope to finish the book in the near future):
Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers
OMG! If you want a funny rom-com do read this novella! I laughed out loud alone at home and it rarely happens when I read a book. Gorgeously written, with very vivid and intriguing characters.
Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque
This one was a real blast! A real action movie turned into historical romance. I really wish someone wrote more books like that! The love story (a wonderful second chance for two people who have been married for more than thirty years and grew apart because of life hardships) is perfectly intertwined with the action plot. Gorgeous novella!
Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane
Amazing novella that introduces a whole new world, partly historical and partly fantasy (they tell me this particular genre is called gaslight fantasy). The world building is wonderful and intriguing, but the love story is even more so. Great characters, gorgeous writing, everything I’ve come to expect from Lane.
Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill
I loved this cute novella so much! Catriona is so funny and gorgeous and I really had fun picturing her fighting the thieves like in the original Home Alone movie! I’m so happy she found the perfect match in William because she really deserved it. The action is wonderfully vivid and the characters are perfectly fleshed-out.
October 4, 2025
A wonderful collection of historical romances inspired by some classic Christmas movies.
*** Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers ***
A farcical holiday with horrid relatives sets the scene in this rom-com regency romance but Balwyn and Anna hold on to their love and finally reach their happy ending.
*** A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold ***
A heart warming second chance romance, no more ghosts of the past only love in the future for Silas and Grace.
*** Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque ***
A captivating romance, filled with peril but Edward and Fiona find their love is stronger than ever. A wonderful take on Die Hard.
*** Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane ***
Chaos and fun at Christmas, a beautiful romance and happily ever after for Nico and Jane.
*** Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill ***
Being left home alone isn't so bad, not for Catriona who finds her happy ending with Will. True love and adventure awaits.
*** Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene ***
A beautiful magical romance, with angels and miracles. Cornelius and Imogen's love transcends it all, second chances with no curses, only a wonderful life ahead.
*** Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite ***
Wonderful grumpy vs sunshine romance. I enjoyed the banter between Ethan and Claire, they find healing and believing in each other.
*** Lady Talbot’s Perfectly, Terrible Holiday by Kathleen Ayers ***
A farcical holiday with horrid relatives sets the scene in this rom-com regency romance but Balwyn and Anna hold on to their love and finally reach their happy ending.
*** A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold ***
A heart warming second chance romance, no more ghosts of the past only love in the future for Silas and Grace.
*** Duke Hard by Sadie Bosque ***
A captivating romance, filled with peril but Edward and Fiona find their love is stronger than ever. A wonderful take on Die Hard.
*** Naughty for Sir Nicholas by Charlie Lane ***
Chaos and fun at Christmas, a beautiful romance and happily ever after for Nico and Jane.
*** Home Unchaperoned by Courtney McCaskill ***
Being left home alone isn't so bad, not for Catriona who finds her happy ending with Will. True love and adventure awaits.
*** Miracle in Mayfair by Cecilia Rene ***
A beautiful magical romance, with angels and miracles. Cornelius and Imogen's love transcends it all, second chances with no curses, only a wonderful life ahead.
*** Sugar Plums and the Christmas Curmudgeon by Tabetha Waite ***
Wonderful grumpy vs sunshine romance. I enjoyed the banter between Ethan and Claire, they find healing and believing in each other.
October 7, 2025
Seven delightful historical romance novellas based on classic holiday films, penned by several of the Brazen Belles authors, will start anyone in the mood for holiday cheer off on a wonderful track. While I've not had a chance to read all seven of them yet, I do know that I will be reading all of them while the holiday season gets fully underway.
I read A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold, based on Charles Dickens's classic story, A Christmas Carol. Silas Frostwick, the Earl of Coldharbor, is a perfect version of miserly curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge, and the author does a fantastic job of crafting a story that stays true to the original story while still making the emotional evolution that Silas undergoes on Christmas Eve, with the help of the three spirits (Christmases Past, Present and Future) that visit him, her own. Beautifully written, it sees Silas finding his lost love, righting past wrongs, changing his perspective on what matters most in life, and getting a second chance at true and lasting love with Grace Hollybrook. With additional themes of class difference and found family, this heartwarming novella is one to be enjoyed this holiday season and reread every holiday season hereafter - or anytime year-round.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this anthology, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
I read A Carol of Grace by Diana Bold, based on Charles Dickens's classic story, A Christmas Carol. Silas Frostwick, the Earl of Coldharbor, is a perfect version of miserly curmudgeon Ebenezer Scrooge, and the author does a fantastic job of crafting a story that stays true to the original story while still making the emotional evolution that Silas undergoes on Christmas Eve, with the help of the three spirits (Christmases Past, Present and Future) that visit him, her own. Beautifully written, it sees Silas finding his lost love, righting past wrongs, changing his perspective on what matters most in life, and getting a second chance at true and lasting love with Grace Hollybrook. With additional themes of class difference and found family, this heartwarming novella is one to be enjoyed this holiday season and reread every holiday season hereafter - or anytime year-round.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this anthology, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
January 18, 2026
I love reading these anthologies. You get to read one of your favorite authors and see what you think of some new ones! ( well, new to me anyways). This was a REALLY fun book because you got to guess which Dickens story they were remaking!! Really worth reading, especially at Xmas time!
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