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Honeycote #4
One Wild Winter's Eve
ONCE YOU'VE HAD A TASTE OF SCANDAL...
As the Duke of Huntford's sister, Lady Rose Sherbourne follows the rules of well-bred society. Always chaperoned. Never engaging in unseemly behavior. Well, except for that one summer, years ago. And yet she's never been able to forget that handsome stable master or the stolen moments they shared. She's always wondered what might have happened if he hadn't disappeared without a word... Now she's about to find out.
YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK
Charles Holland never expected to see Lady Rose again. And yet the years haven't lessened his devotion—or his desire—in any way. Despite their differences in class, Charles cannot stop himself from wanting to possess her. But as they uncover one intimate secret after another about her family, they realize that, this time, their love may come at a very dear price...
As the Duke of Huntford's sister, Lady Rose Sherbourne follows the rules of well-bred society. Always chaperoned. Never engaging in unseemly behavior. Well, except for that one summer, years ago. And yet she's never been able to forget that handsome stable master or the stolen moments they shared. She's always wondered what might have happened if he hadn't disappeared without a word... Now she's about to find out.
YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK
Charles Holland never expected to see Lady Rose again. And yet the years haven't lessened his devotion—or his desire—in any way. Despite their differences in class, Charles cannot stop himself from wanting to possess her. But as they uncover one intimate secret after another about her family, they realize that, this time, their love may come at a very dear price...
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 27, 2015
15 people are currently reading
928 people want to read
About the author
Anne Barton
6 books234 followersAnne Barton began swiping romance novels off her mom’s bookshelf as a teenager, so when she had the chance to spend a semester in London—home to her favorite heroes—she packed her bags and promptly fell in love with the city, its history, and its pubs. She dreamed of writing romance, but somehow ended up a software analyst instead.
Fortunately, a few years and a few careers later, Anne found her way back to writing the stories she loves and in 2011 won the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart for Regency Historical Romance. She lives in Maryland with her husband and three children, who try valiantly not to roll their eyes whenever she quotes Jane Austen. Her weaknesses include reality TV, cute-but-impractical shoes, and caffeinated beverages of all kinds.
Fortunately, a few years and a few careers later, Anne found her way back to writing the stories she loves and in 2011 won the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart for Regency Historical Romance. She lives in Maryland with her husband and three children, who try valiantly not to roll their eyes whenever she quotes Jane Austen. Her weaknesses include reality TV, cute-but-impractical shoes, and caffeinated beverages of all kinds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 13, 2015
I wish I could rate this higher, I really do. The writing is great, the prose, beautiful. Rose is a very strong heroine, especially with the way she deals with Charles' abandonment and his return to her life. I really, really like and respect her, and I just wish that Charles deserve even just a fragment of her affections.
But he does not.
No matter how I try to force myself to like him, I just can't bring myself to. I understand his reasons for leaving, for not replying to Rose's letters, and for leaving (again) in pursuit of a better life in America. My brain understands that, but my heart does not. I get that it's natural and rational for him to aspire better things, seeing as he comes from poverty, but I just wish, I dunno, that he even gave a thought about sacrificing that dream for Rose. Hey, even just considering it would be fine for me. I just can't help but feel like he's too selfish.
The pain is made worse because as I said, I really, really like Rose and want her to be happy. I'm not convinced that that man is Charles.
I guess the main reason why I rated this like this is because of the angst. There's just way to much angst that at some point I had to stop because I felt that I was being suffocated. The book feels unbalanced; there's way too much sadness and so very little happiness to counteract that. Reading this is like slashing my arm and pouring alcohol over the wound. It's too good to be hated, but too painful to be loved.
But he does not.
No matter how I try to force myself to like him, I just can't bring myself to. I understand his reasons for leaving, for not replying to Rose's letters, and for leaving (again) in pursuit of a better life in America. My brain understands that, but my heart does not. I get that it's natural and rational for him to aspire better things, seeing as he comes from poverty, but I just wish, I dunno, that he even gave a thought about sacrificing that dream for Rose. Hey, even just considering it would be fine for me. I just can't help but feel like he's too selfish.
The pain is made worse because as I said, I really, really like Rose and want her to be happy. I'm not convinced that that man is Charles.
I guess the main reason why I rated this like this is because of the angst. There's just way to much angst that at some point I had to stop because I felt that I was being suffocated. The book feels unbalanced; there's way too much sadness and so very little happiness to counteract that. Reading this is like slashing my arm and pouring alcohol over the wound. It's too good to be hated, but too painful to be loved.
November 18, 2015
This is one of those stories that actually suffered from being too long (and would have been better as a novella).
I absolutely loved the beginning of this story. The writing was beautiful and the angst and sexual tension between the characters was heady. Rose is the sister of a duke who suffered a traumatic experience when she was younger and was mute for a period of her life. During this time, she drew very close to the stable master, Charles, a young man who always made her feel normal, safe, and happy. Then, he suddenly leaves and they don't see each other for years.
The flashbacks to Rose and Charles' young lives were beautifully done and they provided depth to the feelings that Rose and Charles experience when they unexpectedly encounter each other in Bath some years later. During this time, Rose, no longer mute, is a guest and Charles is a steward. It may have been six years since they have seen each other but all of the feelings come rushing back. I could see the pull between the characters and I enjoyed all of their private meetings as their relationship developed away from the eyes of others.
But then, the story became overly dramatic. I won't give too much away, but there is a run-in with the law that then drags on for the second half of the story. It was a bit unexpected and while Barton tied everything together, I just didn't like it. The excess drama took away from the power of Rose and Charles' relationship and made me drop a star rating because I went from loving the story and savoring every word to reading quickly to see how it ended.
Each character is driven by different motivations in this story. Charles is desperate to make something of himself, even at the expense of a life with Rose. In some ways, I understand why he wanted to leave to become a landowner in America--the class system in England during this time is extremely rigid--but it surprised me that he never considered other options since he loved Rose so deeply. It was the only thing that made me doubt him. Rose was an excellent heroine. She was shy and reserved, but had a deep well of love and loyalty for her family and for Charles. She was willing to make sacrifices and consider all options in order to be with Charles. She was also exploring the mystery of her mother's disappearance. I think this may be a link in previous books and was resolved here. Rose's traumatic experience involved a scene she saw with her mother, and then her mother left all of her children behind. Rose travels to Bath to talk to her mother's old friends to learn what happened to her and things play out in an unexpected way. Since I haven't read the other books in this series, I wasn't as invested in this mystery, but it seemed to be very important to Rose.
Overall, this was a nice introduction to Barton's writing and I will be trying her work again. There was s little too much angst injected into this story (the angst of a separate-class romance is enough without all of the other drama), so if all her stories are like this, I may change my tune. However, I thought Barton's prose was lovely and the way she built up the relationship between Charles and Rose was wonderful. The sex scenes were also nice and not too over the top (usually with new authors, the sex is gratuitous, but not here). 5 stars for the first half of the story, 3 stars for the second half, for an average of 4 stars overall.
I absolutely loved the beginning of this story. The writing was beautiful and the angst and sexual tension between the characters was heady. Rose is the sister of a duke who suffered a traumatic experience when she was younger and was mute for a period of her life. During this time, she drew very close to the stable master, Charles, a young man who always made her feel normal, safe, and happy. Then, he suddenly leaves and they don't see each other for years.
The flashbacks to Rose and Charles' young lives were beautifully done and they provided depth to the feelings that Rose and Charles experience when they unexpectedly encounter each other in Bath some years later. During this time, Rose, no longer mute, is a guest and Charles is a steward. It may have been six years since they have seen each other but all of the feelings come rushing back. I could see the pull between the characters and I enjoyed all of their private meetings as their relationship developed away from the eyes of others.
But then, the story became overly dramatic. I won't give too much away, but there is a run-in with the law that then drags on for the second half of the story. It was a bit unexpected and while Barton tied everything together, I just didn't like it. The excess drama took away from the power of Rose and Charles' relationship and made me drop a star rating because I went from loving the story and savoring every word to reading quickly to see how it ended.
Each character is driven by different motivations in this story. Charles is desperate to make something of himself, even at the expense of a life with Rose. In some ways, I understand why he wanted to leave to become a landowner in America--the class system in England during this time is extremely rigid--but it surprised me that he never considered other options since he loved Rose so deeply. It was the only thing that made me doubt him. Rose was an excellent heroine. She was shy and reserved, but had a deep well of love and loyalty for her family and for Charles. She was willing to make sacrifices and consider all options in order to be with Charles. She was also exploring the mystery of her mother's disappearance. I think this may be a link in previous books and was resolved here. Rose's traumatic experience involved a scene she saw with her mother, and then her mother left all of her children behind. Rose travels to Bath to talk to her mother's old friends to learn what happened to her and things play out in an unexpected way. Since I haven't read the other books in this series, I wasn't as invested in this mystery, but it seemed to be very important to Rose.
Overall, this was a nice introduction to Barton's writing and I will be trying her work again. There was s little too much angst injected into this story (the angst of a separate-class romance is enough without all of the other drama), so if all her stories are like this, I may change my tune. However, I thought Barton's prose was lovely and the way she built up the relationship between Charles and Rose was wonderful. The sex scenes were also nice and not too over the top (usually with new authors, the sex is gratuitous, but not here). 5 stars for the first half of the story, 3 stars for the second half, for an average of 4 stars overall.
October 30, 2015
One Wild Winter’s Eve, the fourth in Anne Barton’s
Honeycote
series, is a pleasant enough way to pass a few hours, but is ultimately nothing special. The two protagonists are nice enough, but rather bland, and because they are in love from pretty much the start of the book, the story is about how they overcome the obstacles that lie in their path because of their difference in station; the hero is a land steward and was formerly the stable-master in the household of the Duke of Huntford, and the heroine is the duke’s sister.
I haven’t read the earlier books, but there is enough information given here to enable the new reader to figure out what has gone before. Lady Rose Sherbourne is the youngest of three siblings and has been most strongly affected by the abandonment of their mother some six years earlier. In fact, it was the sight of her mother in bed with her two lovers that traumatised her so much that she refused to speak for years. During that time, only Charles Holland, the gentle stable-master, took the time to truly understand her, and only when she was with him was Rose able to forget her sorrow and feel normal.
Three years later, Charles has moved on, dismissed when the duke discovered the innocent friendship between him and his sister, and Rose – who has now recovered her speech - is acting as a companion to Lady Bonneville, who is one of those intimidating-but-hiding-a-heart-of-gold types of dowagers so often found in historical romances. Lady Bonneville is travelling to Bath to visit Lady Yardley, who happens to be an old friend of Rose’s mother’s, and Rose hopes that perhaps she will be able to obtain some clue as to her mother’s current whereabouts. Even though she behaved atrociously and then abandoned her family, Rose is determined to find her so that she can put the past behind her and move forward with her life.
It emerges that Lady Yardley is still in touch with the dowager duchess of Huntford and has only recently received a letter from her. Rose is desperate to know what it says, but her hostess is not at all forthcoming so later that night, Rose sneaks into the study to see if she can find the letter and read it. Her search is interrupted, however, by Lady Yardley’s steward - who is none other than Charles Holland.
This unexpected meeting shakes both of them, and neither is sure exactly how to treat the other, especially as the forbidden attraction that had always been present between them roars back to life even stronger than before. When Rose is eventually able to explain her purpose to Charles, he agrees to help her to find the letter from her mother –which has since disappeared – and to see if he can find out anything else which might help her. Unfortunately, however, in helping Rose, Charles suddenly finds himself in a very tricky situation - one from which he is unlikely to emerge unscathed and which threatens to destroy the future he and Rose had been hoping to build for themselves.
The romance between the two principals is tender and sweet, although their being in love at the beginning of the book means that it doesn’t really develop – it just is. The conflict in the novel really comes from the fact that for years, Charles has dreamed of owning land of his own and knowing this was unlikely to happen in England has been planning to travel to America as soon as he could afford to buy his passage - but now Rose is back in his life, how can he bear to leave her? Yet how can he ask her, a gently bred young woman with a close-knit, loving family, to leave them to undertake a hazardous journey and settle in a rough, dangerous land?
One Wild Winter’s Eve is a well-written book, the storyline moves swiftly and all reaches a satisfying conclusion. Ultimately, though, it’s one of those middling books that is neither good nor bad – it’s enjoyable enough but not particularly memorable and isn’t a book I’m likely to re-read.
I haven’t read the earlier books, but there is enough information given here to enable the new reader to figure out what has gone before. Lady Rose Sherbourne is the youngest of three siblings and has been most strongly affected by the abandonment of their mother some six years earlier. In fact, it was the sight of her mother in bed with her two lovers that traumatised her so much that she refused to speak for years. During that time, only Charles Holland, the gentle stable-master, took the time to truly understand her, and only when she was with him was Rose able to forget her sorrow and feel normal.
Three years later, Charles has moved on, dismissed when the duke discovered the innocent friendship between him and his sister, and Rose – who has now recovered her speech - is acting as a companion to Lady Bonneville, who is one of those intimidating-but-hiding-a-heart-of-gold types of dowagers so often found in historical romances. Lady Bonneville is travelling to Bath to visit Lady Yardley, who happens to be an old friend of Rose’s mother’s, and Rose hopes that perhaps she will be able to obtain some clue as to her mother’s current whereabouts. Even though she behaved atrociously and then abandoned her family, Rose is determined to find her so that she can put the past behind her and move forward with her life.
It emerges that Lady Yardley is still in touch with the dowager duchess of Huntford and has only recently received a letter from her. Rose is desperate to know what it says, but her hostess is not at all forthcoming so later that night, Rose sneaks into the study to see if she can find the letter and read it. Her search is interrupted, however, by Lady Yardley’s steward - who is none other than Charles Holland.
This unexpected meeting shakes both of them, and neither is sure exactly how to treat the other, especially as the forbidden attraction that had always been present between them roars back to life even stronger than before. When Rose is eventually able to explain her purpose to Charles, he agrees to help her to find the letter from her mother –which has since disappeared – and to see if he can find out anything else which might help her. Unfortunately, however, in helping Rose, Charles suddenly finds himself in a very tricky situation - one from which he is unlikely to emerge unscathed and which threatens to destroy the future he and Rose had been hoping to build for themselves.
The romance between the two principals is tender and sweet, although their being in love at the beginning of the book means that it doesn’t really develop – it just is. The conflict in the novel really comes from the fact that for years, Charles has dreamed of owning land of his own and knowing this was unlikely to happen in England has been planning to travel to America as soon as he could afford to buy his passage - but now Rose is back in his life, how can he bear to leave her? Yet how can he ask her, a gently bred young woman with a close-knit, loving family, to leave them to undertake a hazardous journey and settle in a rough, dangerous land?
One Wild Winter’s Eve is a well-written book, the storyline moves swiftly and all reaches a satisfying conclusion. Ultimately, though, it’s one of those middling books that is neither good nor bad – it’s enjoyable enough but not particularly memorable and isn’t a book I’m likely to re-read.
September 27, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/20yHNbW
Lovely and unique. Barton never fails at delivering gorgeous romances between characters that are full of fire, life and the determination to be true to themselves. The ton be damned! (gah I love that!) One Wild Winter's Eve was quite the adventure as Rose goes searching for information about her long lost mama who abandoned the family years ago and instead comes face to face with a man from her past.
The quick of it is that Rose and Charles met when he was a stable master for her family. They had a friendship that was turning into more (scandalous, yes?!) before their lives were sent in separate directions and much to her dismay they lost touch. And now years later they've stumbled upon one another once again--though chickie...not so pleased with him after not hearing from him in so long. Mm.hm--when Rose travels as a companion to visit a woman she's sure knows information about her long lost mama and Charles just so happens to be working for the household.
Charles and Rose were magnetic. I loved both of them. And their forbidden romance. The well behaved daughter of a Duke and the former stable master that set her heart racing. Two that had everything fighting against them but loved each other deeply and truly. That would sacrifice everything for one another. It was a bumpy ride full of secrets, a horse named Pandora, and narrow escapes as their search for the truth about her mother lands them in serious danger and sends them trekking across country before they lose everything that matters most to them.
I laughed out loud, I sighed, I fell completely in love once again with the world Barton created. One Wild Winter's Eve was a beautiful tale of love triumphing over all. It was just lovely and heartfelt from beginning to end.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Woohoo! One of my favorite authors! AND I'm quoted in it. Can't wait!
Reviewing for herding cats & burning soup.
October 17, 2015
4.5 Stars
I love a good forbidden romance, especially one where the hero is far beneath the heroine in social standing. And this is a good... forbidden... romance. Lady Rose is sister to the Duke of Huntford. Charles is the stable master. Their relationship started as an innocent friendship, but their feelings grew to something more. They never acted on their attraction, but it was, no doubt, the reason Charles left suddenly one day, without saying a word.
Three years later, they never expected to see each other again. Imagine their surprise when their paths cross and all the old feelings come rushing back. Rose is serving as a companion to an older lady, visiting Lady Yardley, a woman who used to be a friend of her mother's. Charles is the steward on the property. Rose is there hoping to get more information on the mother who abandoned her all those years ago. She quickly discovers that Lady Yardley knows more than she is willing to share. Rose and Charles end up working together to uncover the secrets she is working to keep.
Oh, but in the meantime, there is so much delicious sexual tension. I love how deeply and truly these two care for one another. Rose doesn't look at Charles and see his class or his abilities. She sees a good man. A smart man. A beautiful man. She is not so naive as to be blind to the roadblocks between them, but recognizes that what's between them is something very special. Charles sees it too, but he is trying so hard to be noble. He doesn't want to take anything from Rose. He doesn't want to ruin her. But he wants her so much. He loves her so much.
I could just swoon all over the place.
Of course, there are forces working against them. And in most books, this would have led to an insipid misunderstanding that would have sent the heroine running for the hills. But not here. These two actually communicate. They're also willing to sacrifice for one another when necessary --and to believe in each other and their love when push comes to shove.
I also liked the story thread involving Rose's mother. It speaks a lot to Rose's character how she responds to the circumstances. But it's the relationship between Rose and Charles that makes this story sing.
The pacing is good. The romance is easy to root for. The sex is hot. And the ending totally satisfies. I would recommend this one.
Rating: B+
*ARC provided by publisher
I love a good forbidden romance, especially one where the hero is far beneath the heroine in social standing. And this is a good... forbidden... romance. Lady Rose is sister to the Duke of Huntford. Charles is the stable master. Their relationship started as an innocent friendship, but their feelings grew to something more. They never acted on their attraction, but it was, no doubt, the reason Charles left suddenly one day, without saying a word.
Three years later, they never expected to see each other again. Imagine their surprise when their paths cross and all the old feelings come rushing back. Rose is serving as a companion to an older lady, visiting Lady Yardley, a woman who used to be a friend of her mother's. Charles is the steward on the property. Rose is there hoping to get more information on the mother who abandoned her all those years ago. She quickly discovers that Lady Yardley knows more than she is willing to share. Rose and Charles end up working together to uncover the secrets she is working to keep.
Oh, but in the meantime, there is so much delicious sexual tension. I love how deeply and truly these two care for one another. Rose doesn't look at Charles and see his class or his abilities. She sees a good man. A smart man. A beautiful man. She is not so naive as to be blind to the roadblocks between them, but recognizes that what's between them is something very special. Charles sees it too, but he is trying so hard to be noble. He doesn't want to take anything from Rose. He doesn't want to ruin her. But he wants her so much. He loves her so much.
I could just swoon all over the place.
Of course, there are forces working against them. And in most books, this would have led to an insipid misunderstanding that would have sent the heroine running for the hills. But not here. These two actually communicate. They're also willing to sacrifice for one another when necessary --and to believe in each other and their love when push comes to shove.
I also liked the story thread involving Rose's mother. It speaks a lot to Rose's character how she responds to the circumstances. But it's the relationship between Rose and Charles that makes this story sing.
The pacing is good. The romance is easy to root for. The sex is hot. And the ending totally satisfies. I would recommend this one.
Rating: B+
*ARC provided by publisher
October 26, 2015
Sometimes young love is not meant to be, especially when the lady is of the ton and the one she loves is a groom in the family stables. But then again, even time does not assuage the feelings one has for the other and ONE WILD WINTER'S EVE by Anne Barton is a perfect example.
For as much as Lady Rose Sherbourne's family is loving and caring, they are also a very involved bunch. After the disappearance of her mother, Rose never lost hope that she would discover where her mother had gone, even though her family are still angry at their abandonment by their mother. Occasionally being around this family is too much. So when Rose needed time away, she did so in the form of a companion to the older and wise, Lady Bonneville. What Rose could never have fathomed, was seeing the very man who evoked such feeling all those years ago.
Catching Rose rifling through his employer's desk, the former groom now steward, Charles is shocked and surprised that the lady before him is the very one love from his past. No longer the silent waif of a girl, Rose has grown into a beautiful woman who still evokes emotion in Charles, who knows he has no business even looking her way. Rose needs help and she asks Charles to assist her in seeking information about her mother from his employer, Lady Yardley, who was one of Rose's mother's best friends. He really shouldn't help, but his feelings for Rose overshadow anything else and after leaving her without a word all those years ago, he seeks to make up for it.
Rose's feelings for Charles only blossom when she is around the now confident and handsome man. She cares naught for their difference in station, but he can't let that difference out of his mind, even if he's fallen for her hook, line and sinker, all over again. Rose's determination to show Charles that his hesitation of being with her is a lost cause is an emotionally charged part of this story. Rose is also adamant about finding her mother, and while that journey is important, it is also a impassioned one. Seeing two people, so perfect for one another, kept apart by social class is hard enough to deal with, but when forces outside their relationship seek to push them apart, it's a wonder watching them try to overcome the trials put in their path.
ONE WILD WINTER'S EVE by Anne Barton is the fourth story in the HONEYCOTE series and it is a wonderful one. Rose never gave up on her search for her mother, and when she has the chance to solve the mystery of where she is, she goes full on ahead, even if in the end, heartbreak will be the resolution. She also never gave up on her love for Charles and that love for him is what gets her through her trials. Charles has always been a good man, but now he has the chance to be the right man for Rose, even if taking that leap causes upheaval. I loved this book. Anne Barton is so good at tugging at the reader's heartstrings, and with ONE WILD WINTER'S EVE, there is no exception.
September 29, 2018
ONE WILD WINTER’S EVE (HONEYCOTE:#4)
Written by Anne Barton
2015; Forever (400 Pages)
Genre: series, historical fiction, historical romance, regency, romance
RATING: 4 STARS
Finally, we get to Owen and Olivia’s younger sister, Rose. Rose is a sweet, sensitive and follow the rules type of girl. She is also guilt-ridden and heartbroken over her mother’s departure and her father’s sudden death. Had she not walked in on her mother having relations with another man, her father would still be alive. Her siblings would be carefree and happy. She can finally speak again but she must find her mother and discover the truth. When Rose arrives at her mother’s friend’s estate, she runs into a man who she broke all the rules for, Charles Holland.
Charles was once the stable hand for Rose’s father’s estate. After a summer that was his best time with Rose, but could also be his undoing, he left the estate for bigger ambitions. Now when he sees Rose again he is not sure if he wants anything more than her love. Rose aims to uncover her mother’s whereabouts but is distracted by Charles and wonders if they can ever be together.
Even though it has taken me some time to finish this series, I truly adore it. Rose, like the heroines before, is a bright sassy heroine that tugs at your heartstrings. She is also perfectly paired with Charles as a sensitive adoring hero. There is adventure and but also has real drama that keeps the novel moving quickly. All the Honeycote and Sherbourne girls are married so I am not sure if there will be any more novels in the series. I do hope Barton writes another series as great at this one!
***I RECEIVED AN eARC FROM THE AUTHOR/PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY***
My Novelesque Blog
Written by Anne Barton
2015; Forever (400 Pages)
Genre: series, historical fiction, historical romance, regency, romance
RATING: 4 STARS
Finally, we get to Owen and Olivia’s younger sister, Rose. Rose is a sweet, sensitive and follow the rules type of girl. She is also guilt-ridden and heartbroken over her mother’s departure and her father’s sudden death. Had she not walked in on her mother having relations with another man, her father would still be alive. Her siblings would be carefree and happy. She can finally speak again but she must find her mother and discover the truth. When Rose arrives at her mother’s friend’s estate, she runs into a man who she broke all the rules for, Charles Holland.
Charles was once the stable hand for Rose’s father’s estate. After a summer that was his best time with Rose, but could also be his undoing, he left the estate for bigger ambitions. Now when he sees Rose again he is not sure if he wants anything more than her love. Rose aims to uncover her mother’s whereabouts but is distracted by Charles and wonders if they can ever be together.
Even though it has taken me some time to finish this series, I truly adore it. Rose, like the heroines before, is a bright sassy heroine that tugs at your heartstrings. She is also perfectly paired with Charles as a sensitive adoring hero. There is adventure and but also has real drama that keeps the novel moving quickly. All the Honeycote and Sherbourne girls are married so I am not sure if there will be any more novels in the series. I do hope Barton writes another series as great at this one!
***I RECEIVED AN eARC FROM THE AUTHOR/PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY***
My Novelesque Blog
October 9, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
Barton is a fairly new to me author having only read the third book in this series, Scandalous Summer Nights , I still jumped at the chance to read this, the fourth book in the Honeycote series. This is a historical romance with some romantic suspense thrown in. I definitely need to go back and read the previous books in the series, When She Was Wicked, Once She Was Tempted and the novella, To All The Rakes I’ve Loved Before so I can fill in some of the blanks.
Once again each chapter begins with a definition that has a double meaning with a sentence that explains the meaning not related to terms having to do with horses or riding. It was nice to meet up with characters we've met before and have this book seamlessly flow from book three.
This time it is Lady Rose's and Charles' story. They come from different sides of the track but the attraction and chemistry are there. Charles had been the stable master at one of Lady Rose's brother's estates so they have a history together and he is now the steward at a country estate where they meet up when Rose is a companion to a family friend that is visiting there. The years fall away as they become familiar with each other once again and their feelings resurface. They have plenty of misunderstandings partly because Rose is headstrong and Charles is trying to do the right thing by her and also protect her but Rose seems to get into situations that are not easy to extract herself from. There is one adventure after another that sometimes had me laughing but for the most part they have some darkness to them. There are family and friends, estates, horses, balls, hard work, abandonment, fear, anger, escapes, laughter, tears, sorrow, happiness, steamy moments, romance and love. There is closure and a happily ever after in the offing that I didn't think would come to fruition but am so glad it did. I hope this series continues since there seems to be much more story to tell.
Book provided by NetGalley
Barton is a fairly new to me author having only read the third book in this series, Scandalous Summer Nights , I still jumped at the chance to read this, the fourth book in the Honeycote series. This is a historical romance with some romantic suspense thrown in. I definitely need to go back and read the previous books in the series, When She Was Wicked, Once She Was Tempted and the novella, To All The Rakes I’ve Loved Before so I can fill in some of the blanks.
Once again each chapter begins with a definition that has a double meaning with a sentence that explains the meaning not related to terms having to do with horses or riding. It was nice to meet up with characters we've met before and have this book seamlessly flow from book three.
This time it is Lady Rose's and Charles' story. They come from different sides of the track but the attraction and chemistry are there. Charles had been the stable master at one of Lady Rose's brother's estates so they have a history together and he is now the steward at a country estate where they meet up when Rose is a companion to a family friend that is visiting there. The years fall away as they become familiar with each other once again and their feelings resurface. They have plenty of misunderstandings partly because Rose is headstrong and Charles is trying to do the right thing by her and also protect her but Rose seems to get into situations that are not easy to extract herself from. There is one adventure after another that sometimes had me laughing but for the most part they have some darkness to them. There are family and friends, estates, horses, balls, hard work, abandonment, fear, anger, escapes, laughter, tears, sorrow, happiness, steamy moments, romance and love. There is closure and a happily ever after in the offing that I didn't think would come to fruition but am so glad it did. I hope this series continues since there seems to be much more story to tell.
October 10, 2018
Lady Rose Sherbourne is quiet, proper and following the rules of the ton. No one would suspect there's anything remotely similar to passion under her placid exterior, but as she embarks on a quest to find out what happened to her mother, she discovers there's nothing more liberating than following one's heart...
I must confess, I much preferred the Honeycote portion of this series than the Sherbourne one. I simply felt there were things missing in the last two installments. Like spunk, spark, humor and passion.
Unlike her sister Rose was much more sedate and proper, but she was too placid, downright vapid at the beginning of the story. She captured my interest once she went rogue and sprung her boyfriend out of jail, but then almost immediately went back to huddling in on herself, fretting and feeling sorry for herself. She didn't appear to have much agency, most of her decisions were based on Charles, the hero.
Who was rather bland himself. I never got to really know him, beside in context of his puppy-like devotion to Rose and he also failed to have anything to do that would make him an individual instead of part of the couple with Rose.
The story only came alive once they were in the company either of Lady Boneville or Rose's family who at least brought some spark to the proceedings.
I liked the suspense sub-plot and would've appreciated it if it was developed a little further and more fully instead of only serving as catalyst to bring Charles and Rose together.
I must confess, I much preferred the Honeycote portion of this series than the Sherbourne one. I simply felt there were things missing in the last two installments. Like spunk, spark, humor and passion.
Unlike her sister Rose was much more sedate and proper, but she was too placid, downright vapid at the beginning of the story. She captured my interest once she went rogue and sprung her boyfriend out of jail, but then almost immediately went back to huddling in on herself, fretting and feeling sorry for herself. She didn't appear to have much agency, most of her decisions were based on Charles, the hero.
Who was rather bland himself. I never got to really know him, beside in context of his puppy-like devotion to Rose and he also failed to have anything to do that would make him an individual instead of part of the couple with Rose.
The story only came alive once they were in the company either of Lady Boneville or Rose's family who at least brought some spark to the proceedings.
I liked the suspense sub-plot and would've appreciated it if it was developed a little further and more fully instead of only serving as catalyst to bring Charles and Rose together.
November 14, 2015
3.5 star ish at some points. Cute overall though.
..........
A sweet and cute read, this is the another lovely collection to the Honeycote series. Rose has always been the quiet one, but book allows her to shine! One Wild Winter's Eve is a bit of a second chance romance. After years apart, Rose unexpected sees Charles (her childhood crush) again, especially not in Bath, were she's trying to find information about her mother. No longer the stable boy, but a land steward, Charles is trying to make something of himself, though he still doesn't think he's good enough for Rose (not that that matters to her). They're really cute together.
The first half of the book is your pretty typical historical romance. Charles and Rose meet again, they do a little dance of will they, won't they, as they try to figure out their feelings, or rather how they're going act on their feelings.
But then action comes rolling in the second half when Charles gets frame for a crime he didn't commit and Rose is determined to save him. There's some jail breaking! Being on the run! And lies and secrets abound.
Overall, it was quite the adventure. Rose got to be the brave and bound girl she never thought she was and Charles got to prove that he's worthy of Rose. With quite the showdown to the fiasco and a happily ever after ending, One Wild Winter's Eve lives up to its name.
{Thanks to Forever & Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Original review at Book Munchies
..........
A sweet and cute read, this is the another lovely collection to the Honeycote series. Rose has always been the quiet one, but book allows her to shine! One Wild Winter's Eve is a bit of a second chance romance. After years apart, Rose unexpected sees Charles (her childhood crush) again, especially not in Bath, were she's trying to find information about her mother. No longer the stable boy, but a land steward, Charles is trying to make something of himself, though he still doesn't think he's good enough for Rose (not that that matters to her). They're really cute together.
The first half of the book is your pretty typical historical romance. Charles and Rose meet again, they do a little dance of will they, won't they, as they try to figure out their feelings, or rather how they're going act on their feelings.
He pressed his lips to hers, lifting her off her feet and robbing her of breath. He kissed her like he wished she were his. That was the iron of the whole thing. She was his. And always would be.
But then action comes rolling in the second half when Charles gets frame for a crime he didn't commit and Rose is determined to save him. There's some jail breaking! Being on the run! And lies and secrets abound.
An older, stooped man banged his tin cup on the iron bars of his cell. "Let me out while you're at it."
"Shut yer toothless mouth, Higgins," called another prisoner. "The princes didn't come to save ye."
Overall, it was quite the adventure. Rose got to be the brave and bound girl she never thought she was and Charles got to prove that he's worthy of Rose. With quite the showdown to the fiasco and a happily ever after ending, One Wild Winter's Eve lives up to its name.
{Thanks to Forever & Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Original review at Book Munchies
November 1, 2015
Yes it was different, I do not see this very often. Rose is the sister of a duke. Charles works in the stables. See!
Rose was sweet, a tad bit too naive.
Charles was hardworking and wanted something more from his life.
They are so wrong for each other, and so right.
What I did not like is what I was never clear why her mother did some things...
Oh I am rambling. Rose and Charles meet again. She is no longer mute from shock, and he is now a steward. But she is still out of his reach. She is looking for her mother. He can't help himself, he wants to help out.
So they look for secrets, and can't help themselves ;)
Grrrr, there is this woman in it, no spoilers, but I started to loathe her! You can only imagine that the road to love is not without hurdles.
I did like the story, but to be honest, her family would never have allowed them to be together. But the family is nice and all (as if).
Rose was sweet, a tad bit too naive.
Charles was hardworking and wanted something more from his life.
They are so wrong for each other, and so right.
What I did not like is what I was never clear why her mother did some things...
Oh I am rambling. Rose and Charles meet again. She is no longer mute from shock, and he is now a steward. But she is still out of his reach. She is looking for her mother. He can't help himself, he wants to help out.
So they look for secrets, and can't help themselves ;)
Grrrr, there is this woman in it, no spoilers, but I started to loathe her! You can only imagine that the road to love is not without hurdles.
I did like the story, but to be honest, her family would never have allowed them to be together. But the family is nice and all (as if).
February 17, 2023
O poveste destul de simpla si de prevazatoare. Dupa primele patru capitole deja cam prevedeam cum va evolua actiunea. Dar a fost plina de umor si destul de relaxant de citit. Lady Rose Sherbourne este cea mai mica sora a ducelui de Huntford, si mult timp a fost fara voce din cauza unui soc suferit in adolescenta datorat mamei ei. Desi este obligata sa respecte regulile de buna-cuviinta ale inaltei societati. va face multe alte lucruri ca sa afle situatia mamei ei si unde se afla ea. Asa ca Rose devine doamna de companie a vicontesei de Bonneville ca sa ajunga la Lady Yardley care inca mai coresponda cu mamaei. Aici il va intalni pe Charles Holland, care fusese servitor la fratele ei care plecase de la mosie fara sa o mai contacteze.Charles o va ajuta sa recupereze niste scrisori de la Lady Yardley care ii puteau spune unde se afla mama Rosei. Dragostea pe care i-o purta Rosa lui Charles va fi supusa la mai multe socuri dar in final totul se va termina cu bine.
July 18, 2017
3/10 maybe I need to read the other books. But maybe I won't. Meh.
February 3, 2018
I liked a lot about this but but overall I wasn’t crazy about it.
October 28, 2020
Rose e Charles se la vedranno con la vendetta di una donna rifiutata ed in più spunta fuori anche la madre scomparsa
November 13, 2015
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.
I can’t quite put my finger on just what it was about One Wild Winter’s Eve that made it such a magical reading experience, all I know is that it was a rare experience. The gorgeous cover didn’t hurt but maybe it was that Charles and Lady Rose were just so wholly likable as individuals and that likability just increased when they were together. Or maybe it was their romance that was so strong and undeniable. Or maybe it was that the entire story was woven together with equal parts passion, suspense, love and adventure. Whatever it was, I just LOVED this book!
Lady Rose was the most surprising character of all. A gently bred lady accustomed to having life’s luxuries yet she fit in with a blue collar man like Charles. Rose never hesitated, even when she saw how humble Charles’ life was. She fit right in and if anything, her titled life was what didn’t fit her. As much as she could, Rose tried to solve her problems on her own. She never went running to her brother, the Duke or to anyone else unless it was her only option. She learned from her past and how being passive and silent only made her powerless. She wanted to feel in control of her own life and I could completely identify with that.
With Charles, author Anne Barton had me picturing a regency era Thor in looks but with the soul of a poet. He wasn’t a rake, it was always Rose for him. This guy was just a dream! His natural desire to earn everything in his life, including Rose was one of his most defining traits. Considerate, kind, intuitive and a naturally romantic, Charles was too irresistible and it was no wonder Lady Rose was willing to fight for him and defy her family and the law to be with him.
Passionately sweet. That’s how I would describe Charles and Rose’s romance. They were a special couple, in part because Charles and Rose weren’t in denial over their feelings towards each other. They knew they shouldn’t care about one another and that they probably would never be with each other but it didn’t stop them from being drawn to each other physically, mentally or spiritually no matter how far apart they were. They weren’t sickeningly sweet either.
I didn’t expect there to be a villain in One Wild Winter’s Eve, which was a surprise in itself but what added a thrilling element was the reason for that villainy and the lengths this person went to to make sure Charles and Rose never had a chance to be together. I never would have suspected this character to have such a cruel side to them. It added an addictive element to an already engaging plot.
While on the subject of the villain, I was hoping for one final confrontation in order to find out just why this person wanted to destroy Charles’ life and keep him and Rose from being together. The author hinted that it might have to do with Rose’s mother but there’s never a solid answer which frustrated me to no end and left me feeling like the book ended with no real closure on that front. The conflict was resolved without Charles and Rose needing to come face to face with this person and demand an explanation. I really wanted that explanation and I wanted to know exactly how they villain was stopped from carrying out their plans. Shoot, I don’t even know what that character’s end game was actually. Unanswered questions, don’t you just hate them?
Final Verdict: One Wild Winter’s Eve was a tantalizing romance that kept me from real life and had me suffering from a severe book hangover. It was so worth it and I have zero regrets about the case of sleep deprivation I had. For me, this will be THE book that Anne Barton will have to outdo so if you are looking to buy only a handful of books this holiday season, make One Wild Winter’s Eve one of those books.
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.
I can’t quite put my finger on just what it was about One Wild Winter’s Eve that made it such a magical reading experience, all I know is that it was a rare experience. The gorgeous cover didn’t hurt but maybe it was that Charles and Lady Rose were just so wholly likable as individuals and that likability just increased when they were together. Or maybe it was their romance that was so strong and undeniable. Or maybe it was that the entire story was woven together with equal parts passion, suspense, love and adventure. Whatever it was, I just LOVED this book!
Lady Rose was the most surprising character of all. A gently bred lady accustomed to having life’s luxuries yet she fit in with a blue collar man like Charles. Rose never hesitated, even when she saw how humble Charles’ life was. She fit right in and if anything, her titled life was what didn’t fit her. As much as she could, Rose tried to solve her problems on her own. She never went running to her brother, the Duke or to anyone else unless it was her only option. She learned from her past and how being passive and silent only made her powerless. She wanted to feel in control of her own life and I could completely identify with that.
With Charles, author Anne Barton had me picturing a regency era Thor in looks but with the soul of a poet. He wasn’t a rake, it was always Rose for him. This guy was just a dream! His natural desire to earn everything in his life, including Rose was one of his most defining traits. Considerate, kind, intuitive and a naturally romantic, Charles was too irresistible and it was no wonder Lady Rose was willing to fight for him and defy her family and the law to be with him.
Passionately sweet. That’s how I would describe Charles and Rose’s romance. They were a special couple, in part because Charles and Rose weren’t in denial over their feelings towards each other. They knew they shouldn’t care about one another and that they probably would never be with each other but it didn’t stop them from being drawn to each other physically, mentally or spiritually no matter how far apart they were. They weren’t sickeningly sweet either.
I didn’t expect there to be a villain in One Wild Winter’s Eve, which was a surprise in itself but what added a thrilling element was the reason for that villainy and the lengths this person went to to make sure Charles and Rose never had a chance to be together. I never would have suspected this character to have such a cruel side to them. It added an addictive element to an already engaging plot.
While on the subject of the villain, I was hoping for one final confrontation in order to find out just why this person wanted to destroy Charles’ life and keep him and Rose from being together. The author hinted that it might have to do with Rose’s mother but there’s never a solid answer which frustrated me to no end and left me feeling like the book ended with no real closure on that front. The conflict was resolved without Charles and Rose needing to come face to face with this person and demand an explanation. I really wanted that explanation and I wanted to know exactly how they villain was stopped from carrying out their plans. Shoot, I don’t even know what that character’s end game was actually. Unanswered questions, don’t you just hate them?
Final Verdict: One Wild Winter’s Eve was a tantalizing romance that kept me from real life and had me suffering from a severe book hangover. It was so worth it and I have zero regrets about the case of sleep deprivation I had. For me, this will be THE book that Anne Barton will have to outdo so if you are looking to buy only a handful of books this holiday season, make One Wild Winter’s Eve one of those books.
August 7, 2018
I liked it
-haven't read any other books in the series, so references to previous adventures with owen, belle, daphne, olivia, etc. went over my head
-i love that the two romantic leads were honest with each other and listened to each other. there was no secret-keeping from the romantic lead for the sake of conflict and I RESPECT THAT
-plus the romance between the two--while a major part of the novel--took a back seat at times to Rose's plotline with her mother
-speaking of which, i love the complicated and contradicting feelings from Rose towards her mother: both love for the mother she remembers, and resentment at her mother for abandoning her family.
--the forgiveness felt to easy, though? like ok youre sick all is forgiven now let's go back to being perfect mother and daughter.... idk felt insincere.
-love love love lady bonneville, best character, 10/10
-dislike that a lot of times characters instinctively know things that seem impossible for them to know, eg rose knows lady yardley was talking about her mother, or rose knows someone was watching her.
-I wish we learned the salacious gossip about lady yardley though :( that was disappointing that we're kept in the dark about that.
uh yep that's about it i enjoyed reading it, easy to fly through, want to pick up some other books in this series
:-)
-haven't read any other books in the series, so references to previous adventures with owen, belle, daphne, olivia, etc. went over my head
-i love that the two romantic leads were honest with each other and listened to each other. there was no secret-keeping from the romantic lead for the sake of conflict and I RESPECT THAT
-plus the romance between the two--while a major part of the novel--took a back seat at times to Rose's plotline with her mother
-speaking of which, i love the complicated and contradicting feelings from Rose towards her mother: both love for the mother she remembers, and resentment at her mother for abandoning her family.
--the forgiveness felt to easy, though? like ok youre sick all is forgiven now let's go back to being perfect mother and daughter.... idk felt insincere.
-love love love lady bonneville, best character, 10/10
-dislike that a lot of times characters instinctively know things that seem impossible for them to know, eg rose knows lady yardley was talking about her mother, or rose knows someone was watching her.
-I wish we learned the salacious gossip about lady yardley though :( that was disappointing that we're kept in the dark about that.
uh yep that's about it i enjoyed reading it, easy to fly through, want to pick up some other books in this series
:-)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2015
4.5 Stars
I adored Anne Barton's latest novel One Wild Winter's Eve, from the first Honeycote story by Anne Barton I wanted Rose and Charles story. But then in I thought that ship has sailed and Rose was destined for another love as the two had become solid friends and nothing more. With this new Honeycote story the world of Rose and Charles has been upended once more! From the beautiful prologue until the last page this was a beautiful romantic love story. Charles and Rose's relationship was first mentioned in When She Was Wicked and has been on the periphery of the later Honeycote series books. When reader's first met Rose she was a scarred mute young lady. I don't want to give away why she was mute, but it was psychological. Charles, bless him was a young man whom didn't try to change her, he accepted that something terrible had led to her becoming mute. He accepted Rose on her own terms, which despite having a loving family no one else did. Her family wanted to fix her, Charles just let her be and waited for her to fix herself; which she eventually accomplished. One Wild Winter's Eve deals with Rose coming full circle emotionally as she hunts for her mother, who abandoned her family. For those who have not read the previous Honeycote books it would be rude to spoil the series plots for you. In saying this know that each of the Shelbourn (the family name the Honeycote sisters marry into) siblings were marked deeply by their parents actions. There isn't character in this series that I haven't fallen in love with, but Charles and Rose sparked my interest from their first introduction. Rose being the sister of a Duke and Charles the handsome stable master whom is more a gentleman than the dandy's of London society. Their interaction in the previous books were always sweet and poignant, but both characters have matured and Rose knows what she wants. Charles has always put Rose's happiness above his own, to the point of leaving his job to distance himself from her. What kind of life can a stable master and a lady possible have. I adore Charles as he has the drive to become someone more than the station he was born to. I personally would have chosen Charles over any English Lord available, as he was written with such integrity. The hunt for Rose's mother doesn't go smoothly, and both Charles and Rose find themselves on the wrong side of a very powerful person. The intrigue and both of them needing to skulk and hide added grand adventure to this heartwarming love story.This review was originally posted on Literati Literature Lovers
I adored Anne Barton's latest novel One Wild Winter's Eve, from the first Honeycote story by Anne Barton I wanted Rose and Charles story. But then in I thought that ship has sailed and Rose was destined for another love as the two had become solid friends and nothing more. With this new Honeycote story the world of Rose and Charles has been upended once more! From the beautiful prologue until the last page this was a beautiful romantic love story. Charles and Rose's relationship was first mentioned in When She Was Wicked and has been on the periphery of the later Honeycote series books. When reader's first met Rose she was a scarred mute young lady. I don't want to give away why she was mute, but it was psychological. Charles, bless him was a young man whom didn't try to change her, he accepted that something terrible had led to her becoming mute. He accepted Rose on her own terms, which despite having a loving family no one else did. Her family wanted to fix her, Charles just let her be and waited for her to fix herself; which she eventually accomplished. One Wild Winter's Eve deals with Rose coming full circle emotionally as she hunts for her mother, who abandoned her family. For those who have not read the previous Honeycote books it would be rude to spoil the series plots for you. In saying this know that each of the Shelbourn (the family name the Honeycote sisters marry into) siblings were marked deeply by their parents actions. There isn't character in this series that I haven't fallen in love with, but Charles and Rose sparked my interest from their first introduction. Rose being the sister of a Duke and Charles the handsome stable master whom is more a gentleman than the dandy's of London society. Their interaction in the previous books were always sweet and poignant, but both characters have matured and Rose knows what she wants. Charles has always put Rose's happiness above his own, to the point of leaving his job to distance himself from her. What kind of life can a stable master and a lady possible have. I adore Charles as he has the drive to become someone more than the station he was born to. I personally would have chosen Charles over any English Lord available, as he was written with such integrity. The hunt for Rose's mother doesn't go smoothly, and both Charles and Rose find themselves on the wrong side of a very powerful person. The intrigue and both of them needing to skulk and hide added grand adventure to this heartwarming love story.This review was originally posted on Literati Literature Lovers
November 17, 2015
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
After a traumatic event, Rose was left unable or unwilling to speak. During that summer the friendship of Charles, the stable master at the estate kept her sane. Yes, the attraction was strong between them each realizing that much separated them from anything beyond a friendship – even if their hearts told a different tale. When Charles leaves without a word of goodbye or his whereabouts life moved on for Rose. She recovered her voice and eventually decided she need more information about her mother. And she set out to discover what really had happened that fateful night.
While visiting an older lady who once knew her mother, the very last person Rose expected to discover was Charles working as a steward. Knowing that their differences in class should keep them apart, each is years older and perhaps because of their separation a bit wiser as well as to what they want and society be damned.
Charles is an honorable man, proving once and for all that a title does not guarantee a man’s honor. Rose has grown and will do even more growing up while on this quest to discover her mother’s location and the truth. The attraction between Charles and Rose hasn’t weakened from their time apart and now these two are willing to risk much in order to be together. Mystery, suspense and sensuous tensions will bring these two closer and hopefully lead to answers and a life together.
I enjoyed One Wild Winter’s Eve very much – not only for the mystery and romance between Charles and Rose. But for a story that shows a realistic side to the Regency era. It’s not always the woman who is not in the upper class and allowances must be made. Love happens, and it cares little for social class or rules of the times.
I would definitely recommend this story, which is an excellent addition to the Honeycote series. If you love Historical or Regency Romance, then you’ll want to pick this one up and enjoy.
*I received an e-ARC of One Wild Winter’s Eve from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
After a traumatic event, Rose was left unable or unwilling to speak. During that summer the friendship of Charles, the stable master at the estate kept her sane. Yes, the attraction was strong between them each realizing that much separated them from anything beyond a friendship – even if their hearts told a different tale. When Charles leaves without a word of goodbye or his whereabouts life moved on for Rose. She recovered her voice and eventually decided she need more information about her mother. And she set out to discover what really had happened that fateful night.
While visiting an older lady who once knew her mother, the very last person Rose expected to discover was Charles working as a steward. Knowing that their differences in class should keep them apart, each is years older and perhaps because of their separation a bit wiser as well as to what they want and society be damned.
Charles is an honorable man, proving once and for all that a title does not guarantee a man’s honor. Rose has grown and will do even more growing up while on this quest to discover her mother’s location and the truth. The attraction between Charles and Rose hasn’t weakened from their time apart and now these two are willing to risk much in order to be together. Mystery, suspense and sensuous tensions will bring these two closer and hopefully lead to answers and a life together.
I enjoyed One Wild Winter’s Eve very much – not only for the mystery and romance between Charles and Rose. But for a story that shows a realistic side to the Regency era. It’s not always the woman who is not in the upper class and allowances must be made. Love happens, and it cares little for social class or rules of the times.
I would definitely recommend this story, which is an excellent addition to the Honeycote series. If you love Historical or Regency Romance, then you’ll want to pick this one up and enjoy.
*I received an e-ARC of One Wild Winter’s Eve from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
October 27, 2015
Lady Rose Sherbourne is the sister of the Duke of Huntford and lives with him at Huntford Manor. Her mother left her husband, Rose, her sister, Olivia, and her brother, Owen, many years ago. Her father has since passed away and no one knows where her mother is. Since then, Rose has not spoken.
Rose contents herself by visiting the stables and watching Charles, the Stable Master, handle the horses. He has been very kind to her and they have become friends. There is an attraction growing between them, although Charles knows it can never go anywhere. When the Duke sees this attraction, he sends Charles away. Rose is so distressed that she finally speaks again for the first time when she says, “No!"
Several years later, Rose is now heading to Bath as the companion of the crabby Viscountess, Lady Bonneville. Rose is happy to do this as it gets her away from her family that seems intent on seeing her get married. While in Bath, they will be the guests of Lady Yardley who happens to be an old friend of Rose’s mother. To Rose’s delightful surprise, Charles has become Lady Yardley’s steward. While she wants to renew their friendship, Rose is reminded that there is a difference in their classes and she is in Bath to attend soirees in hopes of finding a husband.
Rose is not interested in dances and such but goes to satisfy the two ladies. She finds time to talk to Charles and discovers that his dream is to move to America where he can find a new life. Rose is heartbroken at this news but wants only the best for him.
As Rose has interactions with Lady Yardley, she finds that she knows more about her mother than she is willing to tell. In addition, Rose discovers that this woman is a mean person bent on pursuing her own pleasures with no thought of whom she hurts.
Come follow the story of Rose and Charles. Is there a future for them? Will she ever find her mother? This is a wonderful love story that I’m sure will draw readers in and not let them go until the last page.
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Rose contents herself by visiting the stables and watching Charles, the Stable Master, handle the horses. He has been very kind to her and they have become friends. There is an attraction growing between them, although Charles knows it can never go anywhere. When the Duke sees this attraction, he sends Charles away. Rose is so distressed that she finally speaks again for the first time when she says, “No!"
Several years later, Rose is now heading to Bath as the companion of the crabby Viscountess, Lady Bonneville. Rose is happy to do this as it gets her away from her family that seems intent on seeing her get married. While in Bath, they will be the guests of Lady Yardley who happens to be an old friend of Rose’s mother. To Rose’s delightful surprise, Charles has become Lady Yardley’s steward. While she wants to renew their friendship, Rose is reminded that there is a difference in their classes and she is in Bath to attend soirees in hopes of finding a husband.
Rose is not interested in dances and such but goes to satisfy the two ladies. She finds time to talk to Charles and discovers that his dream is to move to America where he can find a new life. Rose is heartbroken at this news but wants only the best for him.
As Rose has interactions with Lady Yardley, she finds that she knows more about her mother than she is willing to tell. In addition, Rose discovers that this woman is a mean person bent on pursuing her own pleasures with no thought of whom she hurts.
Come follow the story of Rose and Charles. Is there a future for them? Will she ever find her mother? This is a wonderful love story that I’m sure will draw readers in and not let them go until the last page.
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2015
The third book from the Honeycote series, this is a man's fairy tale set on 1818.
This is a little refreshing from the usual historical romance because our hero came from a lower class and he fell in love with a duke's daughter. It's the basic forbidden love, but usually it's the Cinderella style. Guess this is same, but with an upside down twist. It's a timeless knowledge that the circumstance of a rich man who falls in love with a poor is completely different with a rich woman's. Which is why the story quite pulled a more difficult, reprehensible, and forlorn flick of events. Any respectable gentlemen of the ton can be forgiven of all debauchery known, while a single sin can sully a lady's name forever. Sadly, it's a sin to fall in love with a lower class man.
But for our heroine, it was the escape she needed from all her genteel troubles. In her world where everything was falling down due to its own foundation, she yearned for anything out of it, everything he had. The simple life without the title and opulence seemed paradise for the Rose.
He, on the other hand, didn't buy her habit of staying with him, watching his every move as if learning his life to live it. But eventually a man of scruple like Charles learned her pure intention and soon enjoyed her company, and a little bit too much later on.
On all legal basis they could not be together, but that's where this turns into a fairy tale. Barton tells a customary tale of two people in love, who would defy gravity to fight for their love. Both in introspect and retrospect, this is the kind of romantic story you'll usually hear from elder people's romantic pursuits. Difference is that, Rose's family accepted Charles unlike the commonly severed ties. Blood came before reputation for the family here, as love came before family apparently for Rose. It's a decision that should never exist, but it does for all the wrong reasons.
It's one too good to be story I cannot buy.
Thanks Netgalley for the uncorrected copy in exchange of an honest review!
This is a little refreshing from the usual historical romance because our hero came from a lower class and he fell in love with a duke's daughter. It's the basic forbidden love, but usually it's the Cinderella style. Guess this is same, but with an upside down twist. It's a timeless knowledge that the circumstance of a rich man who falls in love with a poor is completely different with a rich woman's. Which is why the story quite pulled a more difficult, reprehensible, and forlorn flick of events. Any respectable gentlemen of the ton can be forgiven of all debauchery known, while a single sin can sully a lady's name forever. Sadly, it's a sin to fall in love with a lower class man.
But for our heroine, it was the escape she needed from all her genteel troubles. In her world where everything was falling down due to its own foundation, she yearned for anything out of it, everything he had. The simple life without the title and opulence seemed paradise for the Rose.
He, on the other hand, didn't buy her habit of staying with him, watching his every move as if learning his life to live it. But eventually a man of scruple like Charles learned her pure intention and soon enjoyed her company, and a little bit too much later on.
On all legal basis they could not be together, but that's where this turns into a fairy tale. Barton tells a customary tale of two people in love, who would defy gravity to fight for their love. Both in introspect and retrospect, this is the kind of romantic story you'll usually hear from elder people's romantic pursuits. Difference is that, Rose's family accepted Charles unlike the commonly severed ties. Blood came before reputation for the family here, as love came before family apparently for Rose. It's a decision that should never exist, but it does for all the wrong reasons.
It's one too good to be story I cannot buy.
Thanks Netgalley for the uncorrected copy in exchange of an honest review!
November 24, 2015
One Wild Winter's Eve by Anne Barton was quite a decent Regency Romance. The premise was really intriguing, Rose and Charles' differences in their upbringings and stations in life would make it seem that they are not a good match. However, despite the contrast in their upbringings, they are drawn to one another. A breath of fresh air! They both know that their attraction to one another is a complication and comes with challenges, but despite that, they want to be true to themselves. When they realize that they each want the same thing, to be with each other, they devise a plan to get away and start a new life together, but of course things never go according to plan. Of course, if things went according to plan then we wouldn't have much of a story, am I right?
One of the things I had a slight issue with was how some things were superfluous to the story.
Another thing was the ending felt rushed to me too. Some things were kind of left hanging, but it's by no means a 'cliffhanger', so I don't want you to get that idea. It's very much a Happily-Ever-After-kinda-ending (which I very much appreciate), but it just seemed a bit rushed at the ending and there were some lose ends left hanging.
Overall, I was entertained by this book and thought it was a nice story line for a Regency Romance. The characters were very well developed. I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
Please note: I won an ARC of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. To show my thanks and appreciation to Goodreads, the publisher, and author, I'm happy to provide my unbiased review of One Wild Winter's Eve.
One of the things I had a slight issue with was how some things were superfluous to the story.
Another thing was the ending felt rushed to me too. Some things were kind of left hanging, but it's by no means a 'cliffhanger', so I don't want you to get that idea. It's very much a Happily-Ever-After-kinda-ending (which I very much appreciate), but it just seemed a bit rushed at the ending and there were some lose ends left hanging.
Overall, I was entertained by this book and thought it was a nice story line for a Regency Romance. The characters were very well developed. I give it 3 out of 5 stars.
Please note: I won an ARC of this book in a Goodreads giveaway. To show my thanks and appreciation to Goodreads, the publisher, and author, I'm happy to provide my unbiased review of One Wild Winter's Eve.
October 28, 2015
Review originally posted on My Book Musings. Click on the link to join the contest to win a copy!
I found it pretty funny that of all the Honeycote stories, Rose's ends up to be the most scandalous of all.
I really enjoy Anne Barton's Honeycote series so I didn't hesitate to sign up for the blog tour. I'm glad that Rose Sherbourne's reason for not speaking was finally revealed! This was given piece by piece throughout the story, and I love that her reason was so plausible. I can't imagine any child walking in on that and coming out unscathed.
The romance between Charles and Rose was so hot. I love that Charles kept trying to be honorable while Rose was braving everything for him. I also appreciated that Barton didn't veer towards a trend I've been seeing in regency romance lately, that of light BDSM or a darker male protagonist. I just want light and romantic regency stories, and having those themes in regency kills it for me. What about you?
I also love that the author didn't skip or made light of all the sacrifices and hardships that Rose will endure by leaving with Charles. I love that she mentioned her homesickness, and the recognition that her change in station will affect her much more than she initially thought it would.
The only thing I didn't like about One Winter's Eve is the extreme method Rose deployed just to free Charles. It ruined them needlessly, when not all options were exhausted. But then again, the story would have run a different path.
I found it pretty funny that of all the Honeycote stories, Rose's ends up to be the most scandalous of all.
I really enjoy Anne Barton's Honeycote series so I didn't hesitate to sign up for the blog tour. I'm glad that Rose Sherbourne's reason for not speaking was finally revealed! This was given piece by piece throughout the story, and I love that her reason was so plausible. I can't imagine any child walking in on that and coming out unscathed.
The romance between Charles and Rose was so hot. I love that Charles kept trying to be honorable while Rose was braving everything for him. I also appreciated that Barton didn't veer towards a trend I've been seeing in regency romance lately, that of light BDSM or a darker male protagonist. I just want light and romantic regency stories, and having those themes in regency kills it for me. What about you?
I also love that the author didn't skip or made light of all the sacrifices and hardships that Rose will endure by leaving with Charles. I love that she mentioned her homesickness, and the recognition that her change in station will affect her much more than she initially thought it would.
The only thing I didn't like about One Winter's Eve is the extreme method Rose deployed just to free Charles. It ruined them needlessly, when not all options were exhausted. But then again, the story would have run a different path.
October 18, 2015
This is book 4 in the Honeycote series.
Lady Rose Sherbour was rendered mute after seeing a traumatizing event as a young girl. But that didn't stop her from having a wonderful summer with the stable boy. They were able to communicate without words. Even though they were very young, she could sense the connection between them even then. But he just disappeared one day and Rose has no idea what had become of him. Now speaking again and moving about in society, Rose runs into her stable boy at a most unexpected place.
Charles Holland never imagined that he would see Lady Rose again. When she shows up to stay at the home of his employer, he realizes that his feelings for her haven't changed in all the years they have been apart. When Rose asks him to help find information about her mother, Charles can't refuse.
Will the different in their stations keep this unlikely couple apart?
Once again Barton put together a wonderful story! It's not often that we see a story where the H/H have such class difference. But once again, Barton was able to pull it off. I always love her stories because they always contain some mystery in which the H/H need to solve. That just enhances the story as it puts them into situations in which they normally wouldn't have found themselves in.
I've loved this series, but I think this is the last one....so sad!! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!!
Thanks go out to Forever - Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Lady Rose Sherbour was rendered mute after seeing a traumatizing event as a young girl. But that didn't stop her from having a wonderful summer with the stable boy. They were able to communicate without words. Even though they were very young, she could sense the connection between them even then. But he just disappeared one day and Rose has no idea what had become of him. Now speaking again and moving about in society, Rose runs into her stable boy at a most unexpected place.
Charles Holland never imagined that he would see Lady Rose again. When she shows up to stay at the home of his employer, he realizes that his feelings for her haven't changed in all the years they have been apart. When Rose asks him to help find information about her mother, Charles can't refuse.
Will the different in their stations keep this unlikely couple apart?
Once again Barton put together a wonderful story! It's not often that we see a story where the H/H have such class difference. But once again, Barton was able to pull it off. I always love her stories because they always contain some mystery in which the H/H need to solve. That just enhances the story as it puts them into situations in which they normally wouldn't have found themselves in.
I've loved this series, but I think this is the last one....so sad!! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!!
Thanks go out to Forever - Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
October 29, 2015
Since this is not my first introduction to Barton as an author I was hoping for something a little more from the author than what this book delivered. The first thing that I did notice about the book was the vibrate cover as it is quite lovely. As for the story for the most part it was a charming tale that I liked overall and yet I feel like the romance could have been more present throughout the pages than it appeared.
Purely I think that this novel is strictly historical-fiction that possessed a strong foundation that was worth applauding. It was only the romance that I had a true fault with. I felt like the chemistry between both Rose and Charles was only portrayed as if the characters were actors rather than in love. I felt like the attraction between the twosome just did not work well and such chemistry forced the romance to lack realism.
As individuals I think that Rose had a lot to learn. In many ways I feel like Rose was always the obedient woman that didn't fall out of her shyness that easily. I prefer a much sharp-witted heroine in romance stories and while I did like Rose I think she allowed Charles to lead her a little too far rather than trusting her own instincts.
-Copyrights of this review belong to Night Owl Reviews. To read more of this review please click on the link that has been provided.
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
Purely I think that this novel is strictly historical-fiction that possessed a strong foundation that was worth applauding. It was only the romance that I had a true fault with. I felt like the chemistry between both Rose and Charles was only portrayed as if the characters were actors rather than in love. I felt like the attraction between the twosome just did not work well and such chemistry forced the romance to lack realism.
As individuals I think that Rose had a lot to learn. In many ways I feel like Rose was always the obedient woman that didn't fall out of her shyness that easily. I prefer a much sharp-witted heroine in romance stories and while I did like Rose I think she allowed Charles to lead her a little too far rather than trusting her own instincts.
-Copyrights of this review belong to Night Owl Reviews. To read more of this review please click on the link that has been provided.
https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
December 6, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher when I won it in a Goodreads Giveaway.
This is not the kind of book that will blow you away, but it is a good romance and a pleasant way to pass the time. It is basically your standard romance novel - just the right amount of chemistry between the hero and heroine, real feelings of love and connection beneath the physical attraction, and an obstacle that they must overcome along the way. The primary obstacle in this case is the difference in their social stations. Mix in some adventure, a little mystery, and a villianess, and you have a book that will keep you turning the pages until the end.
This book's main asset is it's hero, Charles Holland. He is one of the nicest and most honorable heroes that I have read about in a long time. He is very easy to like. He works hard and wants more out of life than what he has at the beginning of the book. The heroine, Lady Rose Sherbourne, is appealing as well. Readers get to watch her grow and display more backbone as the story progresses. It was hard for Rose to deal with her mother leaving her when she was younger, and she longs to know what has happened to her. That plot point provides much of the mystery in the story.
In the end, Rose and Charles are a couple willing to make sacrifices in order to be together, and that makes it worth reading.
This is not the kind of book that will blow you away, but it is a good romance and a pleasant way to pass the time. It is basically your standard romance novel - just the right amount of chemistry between the hero and heroine, real feelings of love and connection beneath the physical attraction, and an obstacle that they must overcome along the way. The primary obstacle in this case is the difference in their social stations. Mix in some adventure, a little mystery, and a villianess, and you have a book that will keep you turning the pages until the end.
This book's main asset is it's hero, Charles Holland. He is one of the nicest and most honorable heroes that I have read about in a long time. He is very easy to like. He works hard and wants more out of life than what he has at the beginning of the book. The heroine, Lady Rose Sherbourne, is appealing as well. Readers get to watch her grow and display more backbone as the story progresses. It was hard for Rose to deal with her mother leaving her when she was younger, and she longs to know what has happened to her. That plot point provides much of the mystery in the story.
In the end, Rose and Charles are a couple willing to make sacrifices in order to be together, and that makes it worth reading.
January 30, 2016
For some odd reason I’ve had all of Anne Barton’s books but I’ve never read them. They’ve gotten lost in my never-ending Kindle TBR, but this book had made me realize that I’ve missed on a slew of great characters, and that’s just not right. I am now determined to read them all in order and my reviews will be coming up shortly.
Here’s the thing I loved most about this story. It’s the social stations in life that were the obstacle these two needed to overcome and for the life of me I just didn’t know if that was possible, especially because there were so many other adversities they faced.
The second thing I adored was the chemistry these two characters had. It was oozing off the pages and I actually missed them where they weren’t together.
The third thing I loved were all the secondary characters showing up, which obviously had their own stories in the previous books, and every one of them was there with a purpose [least of all reminding me on what I’ve missed by not reading their happily ever after].
If you’ve missed on this author, as I have, please get on this series. Trust me. You will fall in love with the world she creates and stories she tells.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
Here’s the thing I loved most about this story. It’s the social stations in life that were the obstacle these two needed to overcome and for the life of me I just didn’t know if that was possible, especially because there were so many other adversities they faced.
The second thing I adored was the chemistry these two characters had. It was oozing off the pages and I actually missed them where they weren’t together.
The third thing I loved were all the secondary characters showing up, which obviously had their own stories in the previous books, and every one of them was there with a purpose [least of all reminding me on what I’ve missed by not reading their happily ever after].
If you’ve missed on this author, as I have, please get on this series. Trust me. You will fall in love with the world she creates and stories she tells.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
October 27, 2015
Lady Rose Sherburne is a shy woman who has always done as her family decreed. With her father deceased and her mother gone after a horrific scandal, she begins to search for her mother in hopes of overcoming the traumatic episodes of her past. She becomes a companion to a grumpy older woman and goes with her to Bath to stay at the home of her mother's former friend. There, she runs into Charles Holland. Charles is the former stable master of her family's estate and now serves as steward to her mother's friend. In the past they had an innocent but powerful connection and neither has forgotten the other. These two characters are immensely likable and their relationship is sweetly passionate. Their differing stations in life cause powerful obstacles but they never seem truly insurmountable which is why the story works so well. This is the continuation of a series and while you don't necessarily need to read them all, it would have been nice to know the interesting side characters a bit more. I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2015
I loved this installment of the Honeycote series.
Charles and Rose are clearly meant for each other. They formed a friendship years ago and haven't seen each other in years.
When they meet again, all the old feelings come rushing back. And even though Charles is determined to make something of his life - Rose is not willing to let him go again.
This story has a fresh and unique feel. It is not the typical forbidden love story. I liked how Ms. Barton was able to make the story of their love believable. There were a lot of twists and turns as well as some answers that readers of this series have been waiting for.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because Charles was willing to walk away from Rose after they were intimate.
I would recommend this book. I hope this isn't the end of the series!
Charles and Rose are clearly meant for each other. They formed a friendship years ago and haven't seen each other in years.
When they meet again, all the old feelings come rushing back. And even though Charles is determined to make something of his life - Rose is not willing to let him go again.
This story has a fresh and unique feel. It is not the typical forbidden love story. I liked how Ms. Barton was able to make the story of their love believable. There were a lot of twists and turns as well as some answers that readers of this series have been waiting for.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because Charles was willing to walk away from Rose after they were intimate.
I would recommend this book. I hope this isn't the end of the series!
October 27, 2015
In this fourth installment of the Honeycote series, Anne Barton once again proves herself to be a very gifted and talented storyteller of the Historical Romance genre! The only story better than forbidden love is a love story that crosses social standing and class which makes this a quite unique novel. Lady Rose is the sister of a Duke with expectations to marry within the upper echelons of the ton. But, her heart abides by no such rules; Lady Rose is in love with Charles, the handsome, hard-working stable master. Will their love prevail the prejudices of society? Or will they be forced apart? With well-developed characters and unexpected twists and turns throughout, I found it quite difficult to pry myself from between the pages! Fans of Historical Romance are sure to be delighted!
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