Twelfth Night

by Joy Reed

Abducted by a blackguard who seeks to wed her by force, resourceful heiress Anne Compton escapes, only to become stranded by a blizzard, along with Lord Stephen Etheridge, and the two find themselves threatened by scandal and engaged to each other against their wills. Original.

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Romance, Regency Romance, Christmas

254 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 1, 1995

About the author

I have been reading Regency romances since I was in my teens and actually wrote my first one--a truly dreadful effort--when I was about sixteen. But since I chose to pursue an education and career in a different field (automotive technology, with minors in French and business administration), that early effort gathered dust for many years. It wasn't until after the birth of my daughter that I had the time and inclination to take up writing again. I enjoy writing and enjoy even more hearing from readers of my books. I work hard to make my Regencies accurate in period detail as well as entertaining in content.

Reviews

[Linda (NOT RECEIVING NOTIFICATIONS) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never thought I would see the day that I gave a historical romance four stars and there was The Big Misunderstanding.

That said, this story contained an unusual beginning with a likeable H/h. Miss Anne Compton and Stephen Eldridge were returning from Scotland on a mail coach in the bitter cold when their vehicle became disabled. Though they did not know each other, the weather forced them to make do with what could have been an unpleasant situation. They were left alone on their own for roughly 24 hours.

Long story short, to save themselves from some nasty gossip, they made a pact to become betrothed even though Anne was hesitant about playing along. What she didn't know was Stephen's true feelings toward her.

There was a toad of a nobleman after Anne's inheritance, Stephen's noxious in-law that wanted him for herself and some well-meaning relatives unaware of Anne's and Stephen's real circumstances that moved the story along.

With the exception of the dum-duh-duh-duh nasty interference by the in-law that caused the lack of communication for THE BIG MISUNDERSTANDING I found Stephen to be easygoing and a sweetheart. I also understood why Anne was a little naïve and confused.

This was not quite as enjoyable as THE DUKE AND MISS DENNY but I still found it an entertaining Christmas romance. *And, unlike most Signet romances, this Zebra Regency had some sexual situations.*

Dare I say it? It is a keeper.

[Catsalive · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite a fun read, if rather full of anachronisms. Stephen Etheridge & Anne Compton are likeable characters, although I was very disappointed in Anne when it came to the ubiquitous Big Misunderstanding. Diana Etheridge is a delight: I'd love to have seen how her Season went, & meet the man who would be her match. Amusing, easy reading

[Courtney · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked the beginning, the characters getting to know each other, but than as the marriage idea came on I remembered I do not like that cliche romance plot... "We HAVE to get married because..." I understand why and it can work, I'm just not a fan. The whole story was pretty predictable and I was kind of annoyed by the climax plot too. However, I did not hate reading it, it was fun and good for what it is, a cliche, Christmas romance. I enjoyed the characters and the romance. The ending did drag on though, just an overview of what happened, was not necessary. Fun but I do not think I will read it again.

[Frances · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very predictable with about 30 pages which needed to be eliminated.

[Melinda · Rating 1 out of 5]

Too explicit for me.