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A Cinderella Christmas
Three reigning legendary queens of Regency Romance deck the halls with this delightful collection of three sparkling novellas, set against the tinsel and mistletoe of a magical Christmas season.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN * Sabrina Jeffries
Once arrogant and aloof, Noel Davenant, the Viscount Cokesbury is determined to help childhood friend Eve Archer restore her family’s fortune. Queen Charlotte’s upcoming charity Christmas embroidery contest is the perfect place for Eve to display her skills and gain opportunities. But though Noel has chosen a wife, by midnight it’s clear that guarding his heart is impossible when desire proves an irresistible gift . . .
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE * Mary Jo Putney
Rejected by her bigoted family, gifted young Casey has survived by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her suspicions of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer, she doesn't expect handsome investigator Cameron Tremayne to swoop in and decide to the solve the mystery of her as well. Can their unlikely partnership bring them a future of loving Christmases together?
A WINTER'S WISH * Anna Bradley
While she designs the stunning gowns that have made her wicked stepsisters the toast of London, Estella Harley also plans to escape her cruel stepmother. Posing as a lady's maid, she seizes her chance at a glittering Yuletide house party thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne. But when it comes to secrets—and longing for a real-life fairytale—the duke and Estella have more in common than meets the eye . . .
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN * Sabrina Jeffries
Once arrogant and aloof, Noel Davenant, the Viscount Cokesbury is determined to help childhood friend Eve Archer restore her family’s fortune. Queen Charlotte’s upcoming charity Christmas embroidery contest is the perfect place for Eve to display her skills and gain opportunities. But though Noel has chosen a wife, by midnight it’s clear that guarding his heart is impossible when desire proves an irresistible gift . . .
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE * Mary Jo Putney
Rejected by her bigoted family, gifted young Casey has survived by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her suspicions of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer, she doesn't expect handsome investigator Cameron Tremayne to swoop in and decide to the solve the mystery of her as well. Can their unlikely partnership bring them a future of loving Christmases together?
A WINTER'S WISH * Anna Bradley
While she designs the stunning gowns that have made her wicked stepsisters the toast of London, Estella Harley also plans to escape her cruel stepmother. Posing as a lady's maid, she seizes her chance at a glittering Yuletide house party thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne. But when it comes to secrets—and longing for a real-life fairytale—the duke and Estella have more in common than meets the eye . . .
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2026
About the author
Sabrina Jeffries
93 books4,850 followersSabrina Jeffries is the NYT bestselling author of over 50 novels and works of short fiction (some written under the pseudonyms Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas). Whatever time not spent writing in a coffee-fueled haze of dreams and madness is spent traveling with her husband and adult autistic son or indulging in one of her passions—jigsaw puzzles, chocolate, and music. With over 11 million books published in print and electronically in 25 different languages, the North Carolina author never regrets tossing aside a budding career in academics for the sheer joy of writing fun fiction, and hopes that one day a book of hers will end up saving the world.
She always dreams big.
She always dreams big.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mistletoe Maiden
This rating for mistletoe maiden by Sabrina Jeffries.
Instalove with an uninspiring hero. Novellas are difficult to get right in romance, you can’t try to stuff a full length love story into a third of the length. This book suffered from lack of development because of that. They jumped quickly into attraction and physical intimacy and barely knew each other. I didn’t feel their connection at all and really didn’t like the hero. He was callous and shallow, he was going to marry a woman he couldn’t love so he wouldn’t get attached to her. That’s an awful thing to do to a woman. I don’t get this framing in romance. We are supposed to see the heroine as so desirable that she changes the heart of a closed off man but why would you want a man like that in the first place? A man so selfish and consumed by his own needs he was willing to marry someone else and subject her to a loveless marriage. Yuk. Throw this kind of hero in the trash. The bad thing was that this story would have worked exactly the same without another woman in the mix. Adding the other woman just made me like both MCs less.
This rating for mistletoe maiden by Sabrina Jeffries.
Instalove with an uninspiring hero. Novellas are difficult to get right in romance, you can’t try to stuff a full length love story into a third of the length. This book suffered from lack of development because of that. They jumped quickly into attraction and physical intimacy and barely knew each other. I didn’t feel their connection at all and really didn’t like the hero. He was callous and shallow, he was going to marry a woman he couldn’t love so he wouldn’t get attached to her. That’s an awful thing to do to a woman. I don’t get this framing in romance. We are supposed to see the heroine as so desirable that she changes the heart of a closed off man but why would you want a man like that in the first place? A man so selfish and consumed by his own needs he was willing to marry someone else and subject her to a loveless marriage. Yuk. Throw this kind of hero in the trash. The bad thing was that this story would have worked exactly the same without another woman in the mix. Adding the other woman just made me like both MCs less.
October 27, 2026
Eve Archer's little brother PICKS LORD NOEL'S POCKET. At Christmas. While the family is broke. And this somehow becomes the meet-cute that eventually gets Eve involved in Queen Charlotte's embroidery competition while Noel is actively courting another woman. I cannot stress enough that "The Mistletoe Maiden" has the energy of six different Regency plots getting trapped in the same carriage and deciding they'll sort it out on the way.
Eve and her family have returned to England after being detained in France, her father has died, a greedy uncle is making their inheritance situation miserable, and she and her stepmother are supporting the family with their embroidery. Noel knew Eve when they were younger because she was friends with his late sister, and he genuinely wants to help. Lovely. Very decent. Except Noel has also decided that the ideal marriage is one where he doesn't particularly love his wife because then nobody can emotionally destroy him by dying. Sir. That is not a romantic strategy. That is grief wearing a waistcoat. Eve, meanwhile, takes one look at his whole "I shall simply never feel deeply again" plan and basically decides, absolutely not, we're fixing this.
I liked Eve's refusal to sit around waiting for someone to rescue her, and the embroidery business and competition gave her something that belonged to her beyond wanting Noel. But Noel, my guy. He kisses Eve while courting somebody else and then apparently needs quite a lot of emotional paperwork before we can get everybody pointed toward the correct happily-ever-after. I spent a significant amount of "The Mistletoe Maiden" wanting to put Eve and Noel in separate corners until they could explain what exactly they thought they were doing.
Then "The Cinderella Challenge" arrives and suddenly Cinderella works at Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard disguised as a man, there is a criminal plot against an engineer, Cameron Tremayne works for a secret Home Office department dealing with gifted people, and Casey herself has unusual abilities. We have LEFT the embroidery room. Casey has been living as a man because it gives her freedom and work she couldn't otherwise have, and Cameron discovers her secret while investigating the danger she reported. He then develops the very understandable secondary investigation of "who IS this fascinating person and why am I already rearranging my emotional furniture for her?"
Casey was probably the Cinderella I found most interesting because her transformation isn't really "put the girl in a dress and behold, WOMAN." She's built an entire life around surviving rejection and finding a place where she can use her abilities. Cameron also knows something about being rejected by biological family and finding family elsewhere, so there is actual tenderness underneath all the gifted-person espionage business. I just wanted them together more. These two spend enough time separated that their romantic connection occasionally feels like it is being maintained through supernatural Wi-Fi, and then the ending gets very enthusiastically cheesy. Not regular cheese either. Christmas cheese. The decorative wheel you bring out for company.
And then "A Winter's Wish" says, "You wanted Cinderella? Fine. HERE." Estella Harley is designing beautiful gowns for the stepsisters who treat her terribly while their mother has reduced her to basically unpaid servitude. She ends up at a Scottish holiday house party where Gabriel Scott, the Duke of Hawthorne, is supposed to be shopping for a duchess. Instead, this socially awkward man meets Estella in his conservatory and tells her he's the GARDENER. Gabriel. You own the castle. This is not going to survive even the lightest background check.
Naturally, this was also where I most wanted the novella to slow down and let these two weirdos flirt. Gabriel is uncomfortable with women and doesn't feel particularly suited to being a duke, Estella has spent years being treated like she doesn't matter, and somehow when they're together neither one has to be the person everyone else has assigned them to be. That's sweet. Just genuinely sweet. There is also a younger stepsister who isn't participating in the family cruelty, which I liked, because apparently my bar for Cinderella relations is now "one person in this house please develop a conscience." But Estella's stepmother and other stepsister are awful enough that by the end I wanted consequences delivered by carriage, and I did not feel sufficiently fed in that department.
That's kind of my whole relationship with A Cinderella Christmas. Every time I started getting attached to one of these couples, the novella format would appear with a tiny bell and announce that we needed to wrap this up. Noel and Eve needed more room to deal with the fact that this man was trying to marry someone he didn't love while kissing someone he did. Casey and Cameron needed more actual Casey-and-Cameron time. Estella and Gabriel needed more of everything, including about six additional chapters and consequences for people who apparently woke up every morning asking, "How can I make Estella's life worse today?"
But there is something extremely comforting about three women who've been dealt lousy hands refusing to stay where everybody put them. Eve turns needlework into survival. Casey builds a life in a world that would happily deny her one. Estella keeps reaching for freedom after years of being told she deserves none. That's the part that stuck with me. The princes are nice, but the Cinderellas are already busy saving themselves when the men wander in.
A Cinderella Christmas landed at 3 stars for me. I had a perfectly pleasant holiday fling with it, enjoyed pieces of all three romances, wanted considerably more time with some of these people, and will forever treasure the fact that Cinderella apparently contains multitudes. She can embroider. She can infiltrate gender restrictions at a naval dockyard. She can flirt with a duke who thinks "gardener" is a convincing fake identity. Put that woman on LinkedIn.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Giving Cinderella Three Careers, Two Secret Identities, One Extremely Suspicious Gardener, and Absolutely No Time to Sit Down
Huge thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. You gave me mistletoe, espionage, wicked stepfamilies, supernatural gifts, competitive embroidery, and a duke impersonating his own employee. I asked for Christmas romance and apparently received the Regency Cinematic Universe.
Eve and her family have returned to England after being detained in France, her father has died, a greedy uncle is making their inheritance situation miserable, and she and her stepmother are supporting the family with their embroidery. Noel knew Eve when they were younger because she was friends with his late sister, and he genuinely wants to help. Lovely. Very decent. Except Noel has also decided that the ideal marriage is one where he doesn't particularly love his wife because then nobody can emotionally destroy him by dying. Sir. That is not a romantic strategy. That is grief wearing a waistcoat. Eve, meanwhile, takes one look at his whole "I shall simply never feel deeply again" plan and basically decides, absolutely not, we're fixing this.
I liked Eve's refusal to sit around waiting for someone to rescue her, and the embroidery business and competition gave her something that belonged to her beyond wanting Noel. But Noel, my guy. He kisses Eve while courting somebody else and then apparently needs quite a lot of emotional paperwork before we can get everybody pointed toward the correct happily-ever-after. I spent a significant amount of "The Mistletoe Maiden" wanting to put Eve and Noel in separate corners until they could explain what exactly they thought they were doing.
Then "The Cinderella Challenge" arrives and suddenly Cinderella works at Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard disguised as a man, there is a criminal plot against an engineer, Cameron Tremayne works for a secret Home Office department dealing with gifted people, and Casey herself has unusual abilities. We have LEFT the embroidery room. Casey has been living as a man because it gives her freedom and work she couldn't otherwise have, and Cameron discovers her secret while investigating the danger she reported. He then develops the very understandable secondary investigation of "who IS this fascinating person and why am I already rearranging my emotional furniture for her?"
Casey was probably the Cinderella I found most interesting because her transformation isn't really "put the girl in a dress and behold, WOMAN." She's built an entire life around surviving rejection and finding a place where she can use her abilities. Cameron also knows something about being rejected by biological family and finding family elsewhere, so there is actual tenderness underneath all the gifted-person espionage business. I just wanted them together more. These two spend enough time separated that their romantic connection occasionally feels like it is being maintained through supernatural Wi-Fi, and then the ending gets very enthusiastically cheesy. Not regular cheese either. Christmas cheese. The decorative wheel you bring out for company.
And then "A Winter's Wish" says, "You wanted Cinderella? Fine. HERE." Estella Harley is designing beautiful gowns for the stepsisters who treat her terribly while their mother has reduced her to basically unpaid servitude. She ends up at a Scottish holiday house party where Gabriel Scott, the Duke of Hawthorne, is supposed to be shopping for a duchess. Instead, this socially awkward man meets Estella in his conservatory and tells her he's the GARDENER. Gabriel. You own the castle. This is not going to survive even the lightest background check.
Naturally, this was also where I most wanted the novella to slow down and let these two weirdos flirt. Gabriel is uncomfortable with women and doesn't feel particularly suited to being a duke, Estella has spent years being treated like she doesn't matter, and somehow when they're together neither one has to be the person everyone else has assigned them to be. That's sweet. Just genuinely sweet. There is also a younger stepsister who isn't participating in the family cruelty, which I liked, because apparently my bar for Cinderella relations is now "one person in this house please develop a conscience." But Estella's stepmother and other stepsister are awful enough that by the end I wanted consequences delivered by carriage, and I did not feel sufficiently fed in that department.
That's kind of my whole relationship with A Cinderella Christmas. Every time I started getting attached to one of these couples, the novella format would appear with a tiny bell and announce that we needed to wrap this up. Noel and Eve needed more room to deal with the fact that this man was trying to marry someone he didn't love while kissing someone he did. Casey and Cameron needed more actual Casey-and-Cameron time. Estella and Gabriel needed more of everything, including about six additional chapters and consequences for people who apparently woke up every morning asking, "How can I make Estella's life worse today?"
But there is something extremely comforting about three women who've been dealt lousy hands refusing to stay where everybody put them. Eve turns needlework into survival. Casey builds a life in a world that would happily deny her one. Estella keeps reaching for freedom after years of being told she deserves none. That's the part that stuck with me. The princes are nice, but the Cinderellas are already busy saving themselves when the men wander in.
A Cinderella Christmas landed at 3 stars for me. I had a perfectly pleasant holiday fling with it, enjoyed pieces of all three romances, wanted considerably more time with some of these people, and will forever treasure the fact that Cinderella apparently contains multitudes. She can embroider. She can infiltrate gender restrictions at a naval dockyard. She can flirt with a duke who thinks "gardener" is a convincing fake identity. Put that woman on LinkedIn.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Giving Cinderella Three Careers, Two Secret Identities, One Extremely Suspicious Gardener, and Absolutely No Time to Sit Down
Huge thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. You gave me mistletoe, espionage, wicked stepfamilies, supernatural gifts, competitive embroidery, and a duke impersonating his own employee. I asked for Christmas romance and apparently received the Regency Cinematic Universe.
July 26, 2026
This anthology has two high points and one low point. I’m not going to let the one odd story override the other two wonderful ones and I’ll explain…
1. Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book continues the story of English détenues that Jefferies wrote about in her last two books. English people who traveled to France after Napoleon’s first exile were stuck in the country when he came back into power. For years, they lived in a small community under a sort of house arrest. Jeffries has been writing about the lives of these people when they’ve arrived home after Napoleon’s second defeat.
In this story, the daughter of a baron who died in captivity is back in England with her French stepmother and half-brother. They can’t regain their old home or finances due to a greedy uncle and live in poverty. A chance encounter with the older brother of her best friend from childhood helps the family get out of poverty.
Having read the other two books Jeffries wrote about this group returning home, I enjoyed seeing a story from a woman’s point of view. It was a complete story in a short space.
2. The Cinderella Challege by Mary Jo Putney - ⭐️
This story is in the paranormal romance world of MJP’s most recent two books. Unfortunately, there is a marked difference in her writing after 2023. It has become unsophisticated and amateurish. The dialogue is stilted and cringy at times.
MJP is 80 years old now and something has either happened to her or someone is writing in her name. This and her previous book (Golden Lord) are nothing like the work that made her beloved with historical romance readers.
3. A Winter’s Wish by Anna Bradley - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the story that stayed as close to the Cinderella source material, but it was still very fun and entertaining to read. This time, though, the male main character is the one hiding his identity while our female main character, Stella, is open about her status as a lady’s maid (though she doesn’t explain that she’s working for her stepmother and step sisters). This was charming and sweet…I’ll definitely be looking up Anna Bradley’s other works!
1. Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book continues the story of English détenues that Jefferies wrote about in her last two books. English people who traveled to France after Napoleon’s first exile were stuck in the country when he came back into power. For years, they lived in a small community under a sort of house arrest. Jeffries has been writing about the lives of these people when they’ve arrived home after Napoleon’s second defeat.
In this story, the daughter of a baron who died in captivity is back in England with her French stepmother and half-brother. They can’t regain their old home or finances due to a greedy uncle and live in poverty. A chance encounter with the older brother of her best friend from childhood helps the family get out of poverty.
Having read the other two books Jeffries wrote about this group returning home, I enjoyed seeing a story from a woman’s point of view. It was a complete story in a short space.
2. The Cinderella Challege by Mary Jo Putney - ⭐️
This story is in the paranormal romance world of MJP’s most recent two books. Unfortunately, there is a marked difference in her writing after 2023. It has become unsophisticated and amateurish. The dialogue is stilted and cringy at times.
MJP is 80 years old now and something has either happened to her or someone is writing in her name. This and her previous book (Golden Lord) are nothing like the work that made her beloved with historical romance readers.
3. A Winter’s Wish by Anna Bradley - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the story that stayed as close to the Cinderella source material, but it was still very fun and entertaining to read. This time, though, the male main character is the one hiding his identity while our female main character, Stella, is open about her status as a lady’s maid (though she doesn’t explain that she’s working for her stepmother and step sisters). This was charming and sweet…I’ll definitely be looking up Anna Bradley’s other works!
October 27, 2026
This is the very best way to kick off the holidays!!! I absolutely loved each one of these stories!
These authors brought the Cinderella story to life in such fun, fresh ways. Each story was unique, and I loved how they all captured that little bit of magic that makes Cinderella so special. There was so much joy and sweetness in these stories, and they brought back memories of all those Cinderella dreams I had when I was young. There's just something about these kinds of stories that makes me smile!
I'm a huge fan of Sabrina Jeffries and Mary Jo Putney, so I knew I was going to enjoy their stories, but I have to confess that *A Winter Wish* by Anna Bradley really grabbed me. This was my first book by her, and she definitely made a fan out of me! I can't wait to read more from her.
If you're looking for a little holiday magic, romance, and happily-ever-after goodness, this collection is a wonderful place to start!
These authors brought the Cinderella story to life in such fun, fresh ways. Each story was unique, and I loved how they all captured that little bit of magic that makes Cinderella so special. There was so much joy and sweetness in these stories, and they brought back memories of all those Cinderella dreams I had when I was young. There's just something about these kinds of stories that makes me smile!
I'm a huge fan of Sabrina Jeffries and Mary Jo Putney, so I knew I was going to enjoy their stories, but I have to confess that *A Winter Wish* by Anna Bradley really grabbed me. This was my first book by her, and she definitely made a fan out of me! I can't wait to read more from her.
If you're looking for a little holiday magic, romance, and happily-ever-after goodness, this collection is a wonderful place to start!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Tropes: all novellas in this anthology involve Cinderella-like scenarios involving the MFC's
I'm glad to see that Christmas HR collections haven't completely disappeared because I find them a pleasant break from real life no matter the time of year you read them.
"Mistletoe Maiden" by Sabrina Jeffries-- This had the best beginning of the three novellas. A nice dose of research on display and I found the overall theme, involving coming back from loss and grief, moving. I also liked MFC Eve's pluck. She had a sunshine/grumpy dynamic with MMC Noel throughout. The "best friend's brother" and "class difference" tropes are somewhat watered down while there was a tad too much focus on embroidery and the competition, but I still enjoyed the story overall. Level 3 steam. 4 stars.
"The Cinderella Challenge" by Mary Jo Putney--A sweet beginning, but ends up with a by-the-numbers plot involving MFC Casey (who seems to effortlessly masquerade as a man) finding love with MMC Cam. There is a slight spyish mystery, and an unexpected paranormal twist that I wished had been developed more (reminiscent of Jayne Ann Krentz's Arcane books) but too much focus on standard family dynamics and making Casey over. Level 1 steam. 3.25 stars.
"A Winter's Wish" by Anna Bradley--My favorite author of the group, this novella offers a Cinderella homage while still being wryly funny and also heartfelt. I do wish this had been longer to develop the mains' personalities and relationship better (I loved that MMC Gabriel was an offbeat duke) and also to develop Beatrice and Rowan more (I at least wanted a peek into their romance). This could have easily been extended to a short book. Level 2 steam. 4.25 stars.
This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this anthology. Thanks to the authors, publisher, and Net Galley for this opportunity.
I'm glad to see that Christmas HR collections haven't completely disappeared because I find them a pleasant break from real life no matter the time of year you read them.
"Mistletoe Maiden" by Sabrina Jeffries-- This had the best beginning of the three novellas. A nice dose of research on display and I found the overall theme, involving coming back from loss and grief, moving. I also liked MFC Eve's pluck. She had a sunshine/grumpy dynamic with MMC Noel throughout. The "best friend's brother" and "class difference" tropes are somewhat watered down while there was a tad too much focus on embroidery and the competition, but I still enjoyed the story overall. Level 3 steam. 4 stars.
"The Cinderella Challenge" by Mary Jo Putney--A sweet beginning, but ends up with a by-the-numbers plot involving MFC Casey (who seems to effortlessly masquerade as a man) finding love with MMC Cam. There is a slight spyish mystery, and an unexpected paranormal twist that I wished had been developed more (reminiscent of Jayne Ann Krentz's Arcane books) but too much focus on standard family dynamics and making Casey over. Level 1 steam. 3.25 stars.
"A Winter's Wish" by Anna Bradley--My favorite author of the group, this novella offers a Cinderella homage while still being wryly funny and also heartfelt. I do wish this had been longer to develop the mains' personalities and relationship better (I loved that MMC Gabriel was an offbeat duke) and also to develop Beatrice and Rowan more (I at least wanted a peek into their romance). This could have easily been extended to a short book. Level 2 steam. 4.25 stars.
This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this anthology. Thanks to the authors, publisher, and Net Galley for this opportunity.
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June 21, 2026THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN – Sabrina Jeffries
RATING: 4.5
https://www.sabrinajeffries.com/
Noel Davenant, Viscount of Cokesbury, searches for a Christmas gift to brighten his mother’s spirits. He encounters an old friend of his late sister – a young woman who has returned from a detention camp in France. When Noel notices that she and her family have fallen on difficult times, he decides to help them. Eve stirs feelings that he would rather avoid. Which woman will Noel choose? The woman he feels nothing for or Eve?
Eve Archer and her family have returned to England after years in a French detention camp. While they wait for her brother to be recognized as their father’s heir, she and her mother support themselves through embroidery. She happens upon Noel when her brother picks his pocket. He and his mother encourage her to enter an embroidery contest. Can Eve win both the contest and Noel’s heart?
My heart wept for Noel and his mother. They both remained trapped in grief over Natalie’s death. I understand Noel’s reluctance to open himself to love only to risk losing it again. What I adore the most about Noel is his willingness to help Eve and her family. First, it stemmed from her friendship with his late sister. Then it morphed into genuine feelings.
I could not help but like Eve. Despite all the trials and hardships, she has endured, Eve did not become bitter or jaded. I admire how she and her mother refused to wait for rescue. They instead used their embroidery skills to support themselves, until they could settle James’ inheritance issues. What I love the most about Eve is how she fought for what she and Noel had. She refuses to let him settle for a safe yet loveless future.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN is a part of Sabrina Jeffries’ historical romance series, LORDS OF HAZARD. I am unsure where this story falls in the series order. Jonathan Leighton, the hero of HAZARD TO A DUKE’S HEART, book one, is mentioned briefly. The only clear connection is that Eve and her family were also held at Verdun, a French detention camp.
I usually avoid holiday-themed stories, especially Christmas ones. However, I could not pass this one up because of Sabrina Jeffries. I have been a longtime fan and reader of her works. I did not mind this one. Christmas is clearly part of the setting, but the holiday theme never feels forced.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE – Mary Jo Putney
RATING: 4
https://maryjoputney.com/
Cameron Tremayne is one of many abandoned gifted children adopted by the Earl and Countess Tremayne. He works for the Home Office’s gifted department. When his father receives a warning about trouble at a naval dockyard, Cameron goes to investigate. He meets Casey, another gifted and the one who tipped them off. Is she Cameron’s destined one? Will Casey’s ability to an asset to his investigation?
Casey Harris works as a clerk at the naval dockyard. She has spent most of her life disguised as a man. After overhearing threats against the Inspector General, Casey alerts the Home Office. She never expected the handsome agent sent to investigate to discover her secret. Cameron makes Casey wonder if she is ready to shed her disguise and live as a woman. Can they find the mastermind behind the plot? And what future awaits Casey afterwards?
I feel for both Casey and Cameron. Both were abandoned by their biological families because of their gifted abilities. And both found people, like them, who took them in and became their surrogate family. I like how Cameron encourages Casey to take her time in figuring out her future. That she did not need to rush into anything.
The only nitpick I have is Casey and Cameron’s open display of affection. I thought that was a big no-no in that time era amongst the haute ton.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE is a part of Mary Jo Putney’s historical romance series, DANGEROUS GIFTS. I have read a book or two by this author in the past. However, I have not read the two full-length books in this series. The story can easily standalone. Couples from the previous books do appear but have a small part to play in the plot.
I like the series’ premises -people with certain heightened abilities in the regency era. However, this short story did not sell me on picking up the prior two or continuing. What I like the most about this novella is how understated the Christmas theme is. It reads like a regular book set in winter, with the occasional mention of a family’s Christmas ball. It made this kind of holiday story much easier for me to read.
A WINTER’S WISH – Anna Bradley
RATING: 4.5
https://www.annabradley.net/
Gabriel Scott, the sixth Duke of Hawthorne, feels unworthy of his title. His valet persuades him to host a holiday house party to meet eligible women. However, Gabriel finds himself drawn to one guest’s servant. When they accidentally meet in his conservatory, he pretends to be the gardener. As they spend time together, Gabriel is certain that she is the perfect candidate for his duchess. Will his deception ruin his chances with Estella? Or will another obstacle stand between them?
Estella Harley has worked as a servant for her stepmother and stepsisters since her father’s death. They travel to Scotland in hopes of attracting the duke’s attention to her eldest stepsister. While exploring the castle, Estella encounters a mysterious man who claims to be the gardener. Gabriel makes her almost believe in fairy tales again, but not everything is as it seems. Will Estella’s stepmother destroy any chance she has with Gabriel? Or will she be trapped in servitude for the rest of her life?
Gabriel is such a cinnamon roll! I like the fact that he is aware of his many shortcomings. How his inability to converse (or flirt) with women causes him anxiety. It is a nice change of pace from the usual dominant, alpha type of hero.
I sympathize with Estella. The difficult years she endured under her stepmother’s spite and pettiness. And how her life changed from one of comfort to outright slavery. I am surprised no one in the haute ton was aware of what was going on. I like the fact that Estella found an unexpected ally in her younger stepsister. They share a quiet, unspoken camaraderie.
A WINTER’S WISH is a Cinderella retelling. I am uncertain if it belongs to any of Anna Bradley’s existing series. I have read a few of the author’s books before. Like the previous two stories, the Christmas theme is subtle, barely there, which I enjoyed. I could easily pretend it was a regular story set in winter.
I have two nitpicks. One is the time skips. In one chapter, the couple meets and interacts. Then, in the next, a week has passed. I felt a bit cheated out of seeing Estella and Gabriel getting to know each other. I think the story would have worked better as a full-length novel.
My other nitpick is that Estella’s stepmother and one stepsister faced no consequences for their actions. That did not sit well with me. I wanted to see more backlash for their cruelty towards Estella… or some legal action. I guess I am a little bloodthirsty.
RATING: 4.5
https://www.sabrinajeffries.com/
Noel Davenant, Viscount of Cokesbury, searches for a Christmas gift to brighten his mother’s spirits. He encounters an old friend of his late sister – a young woman who has returned from a detention camp in France. When Noel notices that she and her family have fallen on difficult times, he decides to help them. Eve stirs feelings that he would rather avoid. Which woman will Noel choose? The woman he feels nothing for or Eve?
Eve Archer and her family have returned to England after years in a French detention camp. While they wait for her brother to be recognized as their father’s heir, she and her mother support themselves through embroidery. She happens upon Noel when her brother picks his pocket. He and his mother encourage her to enter an embroidery contest. Can Eve win both the contest and Noel’s heart?
My heart wept for Noel and his mother. They both remained trapped in grief over Natalie’s death. I understand Noel’s reluctance to open himself to love only to risk losing it again. What I adore the most about Noel is his willingness to help Eve and her family. First, it stemmed from her friendship with his late sister. Then it morphed into genuine feelings.
I could not help but like Eve. Despite all the trials and hardships, she has endured, Eve did not become bitter or jaded. I admire how she and her mother refused to wait for rescue. They instead used their embroidery skills to support themselves, until they could settle James’ inheritance issues. What I love the most about Eve is how she fought for what she and Noel had. She refuses to let him settle for a safe yet loveless future.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN is a part of Sabrina Jeffries’ historical romance series, LORDS OF HAZARD. I am unsure where this story falls in the series order. Jonathan Leighton, the hero of HAZARD TO A DUKE’S HEART, book one, is mentioned briefly. The only clear connection is that Eve and her family were also held at Verdun, a French detention camp.
I usually avoid holiday-themed stories, especially Christmas ones. However, I could not pass this one up because of Sabrina Jeffries. I have been a longtime fan and reader of her works. I did not mind this one. Christmas is clearly part of the setting, but the holiday theme never feels forced.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE – Mary Jo Putney
RATING: 4
https://maryjoputney.com/
Cameron Tremayne is one of many abandoned gifted children adopted by the Earl and Countess Tremayne. He works for the Home Office’s gifted department. When his father receives a warning about trouble at a naval dockyard, Cameron goes to investigate. He meets Casey, another gifted and the one who tipped them off. Is she Cameron’s destined one? Will Casey’s ability to an asset to his investigation?
Casey Harris works as a clerk at the naval dockyard. She has spent most of her life disguised as a man. After overhearing threats against the Inspector General, Casey alerts the Home Office. She never expected the handsome agent sent to investigate to discover her secret. Cameron makes Casey wonder if she is ready to shed her disguise and live as a woman. Can they find the mastermind behind the plot? And what future awaits Casey afterwards?
I feel for both Casey and Cameron. Both were abandoned by their biological families because of their gifted abilities. And both found people, like them, who took them in and became their surrogate family. I like how Cameron encourages Casey to take her time in figuring out her future. That she did not need to rush into anything.
The only nitpick I have is Casey and Cameron’s open display of affection. I thought that was a big no-no in that time era amongst the haute ton.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE is a part of Mary Jo Putney’s historical romance series, DANGEROUS GIFTS. I have read a book or two by this author in the past. However, I have not read the two full-length books in this series. The story can easily standalone. Couples from the previous books do appear but have a small part to play in the plot.
I like the series’ premises -people with certain heightened abilities in the regency era. However, this short story did not sell me on picking up the prior two or continuing. What I like the most about this novella is how understated the Christmas theme is. It reads like a regular book set in winter, with the occasional mention of a family’s Christmas ball. It made this kind of holiday story much easier for me to read.
A WINTER’S WISH – Anna Bradley
RATING: 4.5
https://www.annabradley.net/
Gabriel Scott, the sixth Duke of Hawthorne, feels unworthy of his title. His valet persuades him to host a holiday house party to meet eligible women. However, Gabriel finds himself drawn to one guest’s servant. When they accidentally meet in his conservatory, he pretends to be the gardener. As they spend time together, Gabriel is certain that she is the perfect candidate for his duchess. Will his deception ruin his chances with Estella? Or will another obstacle stand between them?
Estella Harley has worked as a servant for her stepmother and stepsisters since her father’s death. They travel to Scotland in hopes of attracting the duke’s attention to her eldest stepsister. While exploring the castle, Estella encounters a mysterious man who claims to be the gardener. Gabriel makes her almost believe in fairy tales again, but not everything is as it seems. Will Estella’s stepmother destroy any chance she has with Gabriel? Or will she be trapped in servitude for the rest of her life?
Gabriel is such a cinnamon roll! I like the fact that he is aware of his many shortcomings. How his inability to converse (or flirt) with women causes him anxiety. It is a nice change of pace from the usual dominant, alpha type of hero.
I sympathize with Estella. The difficult years she endured under her stepmother’s spite and pettiness. And how her life changed from one of comfort to outright slavery. I am surprised no one in the haute ton was aware of what was going on. I like the fact that Estella found an unexpected ally in her younger stepsister. They share a quiet, unspoken camaraderie.
A WINTER’S WISH is a Cinderella retelling. I am uncertain if it belongs to any of Anna Bradley’s existing series. I have read a few of the author’s books before. Like the previous two stories, the Christmas theme is subtle, barely there, which I enjoyed. I could easily pretend it was a regular story set in winter.
I have two nitpicks. One is the time skips. In one chapter, the couple meets and interacts. Then, in the next, a week has passed. I felt a bit cheated out of seeing Estella and Gabriel getting to know each other. I think the story would have worked better as a full-length novel.
My other nitpick is that Estella’s stepmother and one stepsister faced no consequences for their actions. That did not sit well with me. I wanted to see more backlash for their cruelty towards Estella… or some legal action. I guess I am a little bloodthirsty.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
All three of the novellas in this anthology suffered from the same problem: they had too much unnecessary information, and not enough necessary scenes.
In Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries, the impoverished heroine (a former détenu), is kissed by the hero — who is COURTING another woman — and then told that she’s not good enough for him. They never really address this, and focus waaaay too much on a made up embroidery competition, and not enough on the romance.
In The Cinderella challenge by Mary Jo Putney, the main characters spend more time apart than together. But they « magically » feel each other so I think we are supposed to be okay with that? Again, this would benefit from less « dressing up Casey » and more actual romance.
In A winter’s wish by Anna Bradley, it comes a LOT closer to being actually romantic, but also abruptly cuts off without resolving everything.
I cannot recommend this anthology to anyone.
I received an Advanced Reader copy from NetGalley and my opinions are my own.
In Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries, the impoverished heroine (a former détenu), is kissed by the hero — who is COURTING another woman — and then told that she’s not good enough for him. They never really address this, and focus waaaay too much on a made up embroidery competition, and not enough on the romance.
In The Cinderella challenge by Mary Jo Putney, the main characters spend more time apart than together. But they « magically » feel each other so I think we are supposed to be okay with that? Again, this would benefit from less « dressing up Casey » and more actual romance.
In A winter’s wish by Anna Bradley, it comes a LOT closer to being actually romantic, but also abruptly cuts off without resolving everything.
I cannot recommend this anthology to anyone.
I received an Advanced Reader copy from NetGalley and my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Cinderella Christmas is a pleasant collection of three festive historical romances inspired by the Cinderella story. Each novella has its own charm, with holiday cheer, romance, and happily-ever-afters, making it an easy read for the Christmas season.
As someone who has been reading historical romance for many years, I was surprised that I hadn't come across any of these authors before. While all three stories were enjoyable enough, none of them really stood out or left a lasting impression. They were entertaining while I was reading them, but ultimately felt fairly forgettable once I'd finished.
Based on this collection alone, I don't think I'd seek out more books by these authors. The stories were perfectly readable, but they didn't leave me wanting to explore their backlists or eagerly anticipate future releases.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
As someone who has been reading historical romance for many years, I was surprised that I hadn't come across any of these authors before. While all three stories were enjoyable enough, none of them really stood out or left a lasting impression. They were entertaining while I was reading them, but ultimately felt fairly forgettable once I'd finished.
Based on this collection alone, I don't think I'd seek out more books by these authors. The stories were perfectly readable, but they didn't leave me wanting to explore their backlists or eagerly anticipate future releases.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three of my favorite historical romance authors have collaborated to write a Christmas anthology, with each author contributing a new, never-before-published novella with a Christmas theme and a HEA.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN by Sabrina Jeffries, 3.5 stars – Eve Archer is back in England after being detained in France by Napoleon for years. But the life she once knew is gone, as her father passed before they returned, leaving her and her step-mother and young brother to fend for themselves. She is reunited with Noel Davenant, Viscount Cokesbury, her best friend’s older brother, who is determined to help her restore her family’s fortune, but is unwilling to risk his heart. I liked this one but could have done without the “other woman” plotline – it was not necessary and made both Eve and Noel look bad. This novella is connected to the Lords of Hazard series.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE by Mary Jo Putney, 3 stars - Rejected by her father for being gifted, young Casey was taken in by Jamie Harris, a man who was also gifted. For years she has hidden by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her concerns of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer to the home office, she didn’t count on them sending Cameron Tremayne or that he would also be gifted. Cameron insists on taking back to London and introducing her to the Tremaynes and helping her find herself and possibly soulmate. This one was a bit rushed, and I just didn’t get the “Cinderella” connection. This novella is connected to the Dangerous Gifts series.
A WINTER'S WISH by Anna Bradley, 4 stars - Estella Harley wants to escape her cruel stepmother and her nasty stepsisters who treat her as little more than a servant. She has her chance when the family is invited to a house party hosted by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne as a lady's maid. At the estate she meets Christopher Ambrose, the duke's gardener and is smitten, but all is not as it seems and sometimes, fairytales do come true. Of the three novellas, this was the only story that had any semblance to Cinderella and I enjoyed it, but I do think the villains got off way too easy. I am not sure if this is connected to an ongoing series.
This was an interesting anthology, but other than Anna Bradley’s offering, I didn’t really get the Cinderella connection. Overall, it was a fun Christmasy anthology with great characters and unique storylines that each end with a happily ever after. If you have been reading the author’s ongoing series, you will be delighted with the connections, but you can still enjoy the novellas without having read the series.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for a DRC/ALC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN by Sabrina Jeffries, 3.5 stars – Eve Archer is back in England after being detained in France by Napoleon for years. But the life she once knew is gone, as her father passed before they returned, leaving her and her step-mother and young brother to fend for themselves. She is reunited with Noel Davenant, Viscount Cokesbury, her best friend’s older brother, who is determined to help her restore her family’s fortune, but is unwilling to risk his heart. I liked this one but could have done without the “other woman” plotline – it was not necessary and made both Eve and Noel look bad. This novella is connected to the Lords of Hazard series.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE by Mary Jo Putney, 3 stars - Rejected by her father for being gifted, young Casey was taken in by Jamie Harris, a man who was also gifted. For years she has hidden by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her concerns of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer to the home office, she didn’t count on them sending Cameron Tremayne or that he would also be gifted. Cameron insists on taking back to London and introducing her to the Tremaynes and helping her find herself and possibly soulmate. This one was a bit rushed, and I just didn’t get the “Cinderella” connection. This novella is connected to the Dangerous Gifts series.
A WINTER'S WISH by Anna Bradley, 4 stars - Estella Harley wants to escape her cruel stepmother and her nasty stepsisters who treat her as little more than a servant. She has her chance when the family is invited to a house party hosted by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne as a lady's maid. At the estate she meets Christopher Ambrose, the duke's gardener and is smitten, but all is not as it seems and sometimes, fairytales do come true. Of the three novellas, this was the only story that had any semblance to Cinderella and I enjoyed it, but I do think the villains got off way too easy. I am not sure if this is connected to an ongoing series.
This was an interesting anthology, but other than Anna Bradley’s offering, I didn’t really get the Cinderella connection. Overall, it was a fun Christmasy anthology with great characters and unique storylines that each end with a happily ever after. If you have been reading the author’s ongoing series, you will be delighted with the connections, but you can still enjoy the novellas without having read the series.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for a DRC/ALC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
October 29, 2026
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN * Sabrina Jeffries
The blurb ...
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE * Mary Jo Putney
The blurb ...
A WINTER'S WISH * Anna Bradley
The blurb ...
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
The blurb ...
Once arrogant and aloof, Noel Davenant, the Viscount Cokesbury is determined to help childhood friend Eve Archer restore her family’s fortune. Queen Charlotte’s upcoming charity Christmas embroidery contest is the perfect place for Eve to display her skills and gain opportunities. But though Noel has chosen a wife, by midnight it’s clear that guarding his heart is impossible when desire proves an irresistible gift . . .I read the most of this novella out of the three and didn't enjoy it (six chapters). Davenant was planning on marrying for the opposite of love and is quite insufferable and hte plot about the Queen's embroidery contest just seemed silly. DNF
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE * Mary Jo Putney
The blurb ...
Rejected by her bigoted family, gifted young Casey has survived by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her suspicions of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer, she doesn't expect handsome investigator Cameron Tremayne to swoop in and decide to the solve the mystery of her as well. Can their unlikely partnership bring them a future of loving Christmases together?Read eight and a half chapters, couldn't get over the woo-woo factor. DNF
A WINTER'S WISH * Anna Bradley
The blurb ...
While she designs the stunning gowns that have made her wicked stepsisters the toast of London, Estella Harley also plans to escape her cruel stepmother. Posing as a lady's maid, she seizes her chance at a glittering Yuletide house party thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne. But when it comes to secrets—and longing for a real-life fairytale—the duke and Estella have more in common than meets the eye . . .I hate anything which is a retelling of a fairy tale and I don't know this author so I didn't even start the novella.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book is comprised of three novellas that all do a take on the story Cinderella.
In The Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries, Lord Noel Davenport runs into his late sister's old best friend, Eve Archer and something instantly catches his interest. When he finds out that her family is in need of his services, he is all too quick to help and soon finds himself wanting more of Eve than to just help.
In The Cinderella Challenge by Mary Jo Putney, Casey Harris has been living on her own since her father threw her out of the house at four years old because of her "special" gift. Luckily for Casey, Jamie Harris found her and took her in. Working at the Royal Navy Dockyard disguised as a male, Casey realizes that something bad is going to happen. In walks Cameron Tremayne, another gifted person ready to help and soon finds his heart being swept away.
In A Winter's Wish by Anna Bradley, Estella Harley is tired of living in her stepsister's shadows. All she is good for is designing their dresses. When the family gets invited to a ball thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne, Stella thinks it may finally be her chance to escape her evil stepmother. What Stella doesn't realize is that, Christopher Ambrose, the duke's gardener that she meets is really the Duke himself and he finds himself smitten with Stella. Even though the purpose of the ball is to find a wife, Gabriel realizes that he found her in Stella now he just has to convince her!
I really enjoyed these 3 holiday novellas. All the character and story lines were fun and made me believe we were in the Christmas season.
In The Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries, Lord Noel Davenport runs into his late sister's old best friend, Eve Archer and something instantly catches his interest. When he finds out that her family is in need of his services, he is all too quick to help and soon finds himself wanting more of Eve than to just help.
In The Cinderella Challenge by Mary Jo Putney, Casey Harris has been living on her own since her father threw her out of the house at four years old because of her "special" gift. Luckily for Casey, Jamie Harris found her and took her in. Working at the Royal Navy Dockyard disguised as a male, Casey realizes that something bad is going to happen. In walks Cameron Tremayne, another gifted person ready to help and soon finds his heart being swept away.
In A Winter's Wish by Anna Bradley, Estella Harley is tired of living in her stepsister's shadows. All she is good for is designing their dresses. When the family gets invited to a ball thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne, Stella thinks it may finally be her chance to escape her evil stepmother. What Stella doesn't realize is that, Christopher Ambrose, the duke's gardener that she meets is really the Duke himself and he finds himself smitten with Stella. Even though the purpose of the ball is to find a wife, Gabriel realizes that he found her in Stella now he just has to convince her!
I really enjoyed these 3 holiday novellas. All the character and story lines were fun and made me believe we were in the Christmas season.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Two very lovely, lighthearted Christmas novellas!
The Mistletoe Maiden - Sabrina Jeffries
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Eve & Noel, former détenu Miss x Viscount, his late sister’s BFF, age-gap (19/30), grief & family, embroidery & asthma, this is not charity!, rascal little bro, witty, warm & fuzzy with a pinch of steam
Not a super Christmassy story, but the seasonal spirit was definitely present! Loved the whole mix-and-match family vibes, how her eternal sunshine vanquished his grump, and that Queen C contest was very neat – it was refreshing to have embroidery front and centre for once.
If Eve’s past makes you curious and you want more stories with détenus (British prisoners in France during the Napoleonic Wars), I happily recommend reading the Lords of Hazard series!
The Cinderella Challenge - Mary Jo Putney
⭐️⭐️
This was my second MJP, and I’ve come to the conclusion her style and stories just don’t work for me
A Winter's Wish - Anna Bradley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Estella & Gabriel, earl’s daughter x 2nd son duke, Yuletide Cinderella retelling, maid x nerd, double hidden identity, evil stepmomster, house party, bees & butterflies, sweet, playful, kisses only
A castle in Scotland, snow, a girl with spunk, and an adorable socially clumsy prince charming.
It’s a fairytale; need I say more? My only wish is that there had been a bit more of Stella & Gabe on page – but the witch and her gremlin were very entertaining.
The Mistletoe Maiden - Sabrina Jeffries
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Eve & Noel, former détenu Miss x Viscount, his late sister’s BFF, age-gap (19/30), grief & family, embroidery & asthma, this is not charity!, rascal little bro, witty, warm & fuzzy with a pinch of steam
Not a super Christmassy story, but the seasonal spirit was definitely present! Loved the whole mix-and-match family vibes, how her eternal sunshine vanquished his grump, and that Queen C contest was very neat – it was refreshing to have embroidery front and centre for once.
If Eve’s past makes you curious and you want more stories with détenus (British prisoners in France during the Napoleonic Wars), I happily recommend reading the Lords of Hazard series!
The Cinderella Challenge - Mary Jo Putney
⭐️⭐️
This was my second MJP, and I’ve come to the conclusion her style and stories just don’t work for me
A Winter's Wish - Anna Bradley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Estella & Gabriel, earl’s daughter x 2nd son duke, Yuletide Cinderella retelling, maid x nerd, double hidden identity, evil stepmomster, house party, bees & butterflies, sweet, playful, kisses only
A castle in Scotland, snow, a girl with spunk, and an adorable socially clumsy prince charming.
It’s a fairytale; need I say more? My only wish is that there had been a bit more of Stella & Gabe on page – but the witch and her gremlin were very entertaining.
October 31, 2026
would be reading the 3 short stories in betweeen books. must say, it seems that i am not a fan of short historical romance, either that or short historical romances are supposed to be not stories BUT little snippets of ideas that the author can't make into stories and so are bundled together to not disappoint.
for now i've read jeffries' "the mistletoe maiden" and the only good thing about it was that it was short.
could be "it's not the book, it's me" thing, i am just too grumpy and not in a romance reader mood lately :(
for now i've read jeffries' "the mistletoe maiden" and the only good thing about it was that it was short.
could be "it's not the book, it's me" thing, i am just too grumpy and not in a romance reader mood lately :(
July 25, 2026
Overall, my average for this set was 3 stars. I was glad that the first story was the longest of the book because I thought it was the best. It told the Cinderella story in a subtle and interesting way. The second story felt like it was clunky in the writing and straightforward in some of the phrasing in a way that I think it was due to the shorter story format. I haven’t read a lot of Mary Jo Putney before, so I don’t have anything to compare it to, but I wouldn’t read more from her on this story alone. The third story was definitely the most heavy handed of the Cinderella stories being retold.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC!
July 8, 2026
I enjoy the quick read of an anthology, and this one set at Christmastime did not disappoint. These are all light, easy reads. Starting with Mistletoe Maiden, Noel accidentally meets Eve, a friend of his deceased sister. Noel is under the impression that he must enter a platonic marriage so that he can’t get hurt. Eve hopes to teach him otherwise. Next is The Cinderella Challenge where Cameron meets Casey, who is masquerading as a man. Will she learn to live as a woman when being a man is so much easier? Finally we have A Winter’s Wish retelling of Cinderella with a twist. Thank you to #KensingtonPublishing and #NetGalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
October 27, 2026
It’s been a while since I have seen an anthology and I enjoyed all three novellas.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN I enjoy Sabrina Jeffries books because I always feel like a get some history along with a romance. Some may be made up, but she does a wonderful job of it having truth along with the fiction. Noel-wants to marry for an heir not feelings, still grieving his sister’s death and meets Eve Archer after her brother pickpockets his wallet Eve-Noel’s sister’s childhood friend, skilled embroiderer, stepmother is French and they have come back after being detained in Verdun. Noel and his mother are trying to help Eve by having her enter her embroidery in Queen Charlotte’s contest and help her younger half brother gain his rightful title of Baron from their Uncle.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE I haven’t read any of Mary Jo Putney’s books but I do know she has been writing for quite a while. This was an interesting story of Casey who is gifted posing as a boy so she can work at the Naval office. She writes to the home office and they send Cameron Tremayne to come investigate a possible plot to harm one of the ships engineers. He figures out Casey is a gifted female and he too is gifted. She is taken in by the Tremaynes after the Naval office finds out she isn’t who they thought she was and she can no longer work there. This was an interesting concept and I like that everyone was very accepting of Casey and didn’t really pressure her to dress like a woman unless she wanted to.
A WINTER’S WISH I don’t think I have ever read an Anna Bradley book, but this one seemed the most closely like the Cinderella fairy tale than the other two. Stella Harley is treated horribly by her stepmother and has to see all the gowns her sister’s wear. They get an invitation to the Duke of Hawthorne’s Christmas Ball and house party. Stella meets Gabriel (the Duke) in the observatory and he tells her he is the gardener for the Duke. The Duke has his valet Rowan pretend to be the Duke so he can find a woman who just wants him for who he is and not just his title. Stella and Gabriel meet several times during the house party and he knows that she is the one for him.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN I enjoy Sabrina Jeffries books because I always feel like a get some history along with a romance. Some may be made up, but she does a wonderful job of it having truth along with the fiction. Noel-wants to marry for an heir not feelings, still grieving his sister’s death and meets Eve Archer after her brother pickpockets his wallet Eve-Noel’s sister’s childhood friend, skilled embroiderer, stepmother is French and they have come back after being detained in Verdun. Noel and his mother are trying to help Eve by having her enter her embroidery in Queen Charlotte’s contest and help her younger half brother gain his rightful title of Baron from their Uncle.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE I haven’t read any of Mary Jo Putney’s books but I do know she has been writing for quite a while. This was an interesting story of Casey who is gifted posing as a boy so she can work at the Naval office. She writes to the home office and they send Cameron Tremayne to come investigate a possible plot to harm one of the ships engineers. He figures out Casey is a gifted female and he too is gifted. She is taken in by the Tremaynes after the Naval office finds out she isn’t who they thought she was and she can no longer work there. This was an interesting concept and I like that everyone was very accepting of Casey and didn’t really pressure her to dress like a woman unless she wanted to.
A WINTER’S WISH I don’t think I have ever read an Anna Bradley book, but this one seemed the most closely like the Cinderella fairy tale than the other two. Stella Harley is treated horribly by her stepmother and has to see all the gowns her sister’s wear. They get an invitation to the Duke of Hawthorne’s Christmas Ball and house party. Stella meets Gabriel (the Duke) in the observatory and he tells her he is the gardener for the Duke. The Duke has his valet Rowan pretend to be the Duke so he can find a woman who just wants him for who he is and not just his title. Stella and Gabriel meet several times during the house party and he knows that she is the one for him.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank-you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for my ARC copy of this book!
4⭐️
On the whole, this book was good and I enjoyed reading it. There were stories I liked more than others, but on the whole this was good.
The Mistletoe Maiden
This story was a 4 star for me. I thought the characters were well thought out and the overall plot was unique. I loved how the author incorporated embroidery into this book. I thought that was very unique. The writing flowed nicely and was believable for the Regency Era. I also did get the Cinderella vibe and the Christmas vibe. I liked the twist on the story that author took in this book.
The Cinderella Challenge
This was a 2.5 star for me. I did not really get how this would be a twist on Cinderella. I just didn’t really get the Cinderella vibes. Also, the way it was written and some of the things that happened were not accurate to the Regency Era. The idea behind the magic system was unique, but it was not developed or explained enough. The romance was a great idea, but also was not developed or flushed out enough. The characters were good starts of characters, but they were more surface level than I like. I thought the concept of the book was interesting, I just wished I could have picked up more on the Cinderella vibes and the Christmas vibes.
A Winters Wish
This was easily a 5 star and easily the best story in the whole book. I loved the characters and the character growth throughout the book. Estella was awesome! I loved her personality and how she made her own way. I loved the romance. It was super sweet and original. I could really see why the characters should be together. I loved the Cinderella and Christmas vibes this book gave off. This was such a unique twist on Cinderella, but you could still tell that it was supposed to be a Cinderella retelling. I thought the writing style was great and appropriate to the Regency Era. The ending was such a satisfying ending.
Overall, this book was a good read. I love Cinderella retellings and this really was great for that aspect. The writing styles were overall good and the stories themselves were as well.
4⭐️
On the whole, this book was good and I enjoyed reading it. There were stories I liked more than others, but on the whole this was good.
The Mistletoe Maiden
This story was a 4 star for me. I thought the characters were well thought out and the overall plot was unique. I loved how the author incorporated embroidery into this book. I thought that was very unique. The writing flowed nicely and was believable for the Regency Era. I also did get the Cinderella vibe and the Christmas vibe. I liked the twist on the story that author took in this book.
The Cinderella Challenge
This was a 2.5 star for me. I did not really get how this would be a twist on Cinderella. I just didn’t really get the Cinderella vibes. Also, the way it was written and some of the things that happened were not accurate to the Regency Era. The idea behind the magic system was unique, but it was not developed or explained enough. The romance was a great idea, but also was not developed or flushed out enough. The characters were good starts of characters, but they were more surface level than I like. I thought the concept of the book was interesting, I just wished I could have picked up more on the Cinderella vibes and the Christmas vibes.
A Winters Wish
This was easily a 5 star and easily the best story in the whole book. I loved the characters and the character growth throughout the book. Estella was awesome! I loved her personality and how she made her own way. I loved the romance. It was super sweet and original. I could really see why the characters should be together. I loved the Cinderella and Christmas vibes this book gave off. This was such a unique twist on Cinderella, but you could still tell that it was supposed to be a Cinderella retelling. I thought the writing style was great and appropriate to the Regency Era. The ending was such a satisfying ending.
Overall, this book was a good read. I love Cinderella retellings and this really was great for that aspect. The writing styles were overall good and the stories themselves were as well.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Cinderella Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries, Mary Jo Putney, and Anna Bradley. Each author has contributed a Christmas short story that makes the romance novel. Despite how distinctly different the stories read they all are nice short reads for the Christmas Season.
The Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries is a traditional historical romance. A young Lord Davenport runs into his dead sister’s best friend who has fallen on hard times. He immediately starts plotting how to help Eve Archer receive her inheritance and rightful place in society. Add in his mother’s eagle eye noticing Eve and her son and a romance with help is guaranteed.
The Cinderella Challenge by Mary Jo Putney is a novella with “gifted” characters who can feel the mood and people's attention. Casey sends a letter to the authorities about her suspicions about an attempt on one of the lead engineers working at the iron works. Since Casey has had to masquerade her whole life as a male. She is able to be in the boat yard and is able to see and overhear several conversations. Bring on the Tremaynes with lead investigator Cameron. He too is “gifted” as his whole family. But first he has to help Casey and solve the issue about someone trying to kill the lead engineer.
A Winter Wish by Anna Bradley is a novella based on the Cinderella tale. A father with one daughter marries a woman with two daughters. After he dies the stepmother turns even more evil and turns the daughter into a servant waiting on her two daughters. In this case Estella Harley is determined to escape her life and the evil step mother while at a house party. The Duke of Hawthorne meets her and then the evil stepmother attempts to trick him!
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries is a traditional historical romance. A young Lord Davenport runs into his dead sister’s best friend who has fallen on hard times. He immediately starts plotting how to help Eve Archer receive her inheritance and rightful place in society. Add in his mother’s eagle eye noticing Eve and her son and a romance with help is guaranteed.
The Cinderella Challenge by Mary Jo Putney is a novella with “gifted” characters who can feel the mood and people's attention. Casey sends a letter to the authorities about her suspicions about an attempt on one of the lead engineers working at the iron works. Since Casey has had to masquerade her whole life as a male. She is able to be in the boat yard and is able to see and overhear several conversations. Bring on the Tremaynes with lead investigator Cameron. He too is “gifted” as his whole family. But first he has to help Casey and solve the issue about someone trying to kill the lead engineer.
A Winter Wish by Anna Bradley is a novella based on the Cinderella tale. A father with one daughter marries a woman with two daughters. After he dies the stepmother turns even more evil and turns the daughter into a servant waiting on her two daughters. In this case Estella Harley is determined to escape her life and the evil step mother while at a house party. The Duke of Hawthorne meets her and then the evil stepmother attempts to trick him!
This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Mistletoe Maiden - Sabrina Jeffries
Lord Noel Davenport is determined to help childhood friend Eve Archer restore her family’s fortune. Queen Charlotte’s upcoming charity Christmas embroidery contest is the perfect place for Eve to display her skills and gain opportunities. An engaging story of sister’s best friend meeting older brother after several years. It’s also slightly connected to one of the author’s series.
The Cinderella Challenge - Mary Jo Putney
Rejected by her family, gifted young Casey has survived by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her suspicions of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer, she doesn't expect handsome investigator Cameron Tremayne to swoop in and decide to the solve the mystery of her as well. An enjoyable novella which I liked but didn’t love. Both carry baggage & I would have liked it to have been longer
A Winter’s Wish - Anna Bradley
While she designs the stunning gowns that have made her wicked stepsisters the toast of London, Estella Harley also plans to escape her cruel stepmother. Posing as a lady's maid, she seizes her chance at a glittering Yuletide house party thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne. A rewriting of the famous fairy tale, which I enjoyed but again I wanted it to be longer so that the relationship could be seen to grow
Three engaging novellas which I enjoyed but I so wanted two of them to be longer & these two could easily have benefitted from being full length novels
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Lord Noel Davenport is determined to help childhood friend Eve Archer restore her family’s fortune. Queen Charlotte’s upcoming charity Christmas embroidery contest is the perfect place for Eve to display her skills and gain opportunities. An engaging story of sister’s best friend meeting older brother after several years. It’s also slightly connected to one of the author’s series.
The Cinderella Challenge - Mary Jo Putney
Rejected by her family, gifted young Casey has survived by disguising herself as a young man and working in the offices of the Chatham Royal Navy Dockyard. But when she reports her suspicions of a plot against Britain's most brilliant engineer, she doesn't expect handsome investigator Cameron Tremayne to swoop in and decide to the solve the mystery of her as well. An enjoyable novella which I liked but didn’t love. Both carry baggage & I would have liked it to have been longer
A Winter’s Wish - Anna Bradley
While she designs the stunning gowns that have made her wicked stepsisters the toast of London, Estella Harley also plans to escape her cruel stepmother. Posing as a lady's maid, she seizes her chance at a glittering Yuletide house party thrown by the mysterious Duke of Hawthorne. A rewriting of the famous fairy tale, which I enjoyed but again I wanted it to be longer so that the relationship could be seen to grow
Three engaging novellas which I enjoyed but I so wanted two of them to be longer & these two could easily have benefitted from being full length novels
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
October 16, 2026
Beautifully written stories gathered in one book.
Mistletoe Maiden has a grieving brother, Noel the Viscount meeting up again with his sister’s best friend.
Eve has been through a difficult time in France. She reunites with his mother and enters the Queen’s embroidery contest.
A romantic romp sometimes laced with past sadness with her fun little brother adding humor.
Cinderella Challenge adds a touch of mystic gifts with romance.
Casey was discarded as a child due to her gifts. She masquerades as a boy to protect herself.
She is taken in and raised as a man. She reaches out to the Home Office where there are others with special gifts.
Cameron comes to help her and realizes she is “the one” with his own special gifts.
He brings her back to the family where she has to decide on her own identity.
A sweet romance connected to the author’s series Dangerous Gifts.
Winter’s Wish is truly a Cinderella retelling with a stepmother, stepsisters, and Lady Estella being treated as their servant.
Estella escapes them during a Duke’s house party to the conservatory where she meets the gardener.
They carry on clandestine meetings throughout the week with spectacular kisses.
Until she finds out her gardener is actual the Duke in disguise.
Adorable romance.
Enjoyed each romantic storyline, Highly recommend.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.
Mistletoe Maiden has a grieving brother, Noel the Viscount meeting up again with his sister’s best friend.
Eve has been through a difficult time in France. She reunites with his mother and enters the Queen’s embroidery contest.
A romantic romp sometimes laced with past sadness with her fun little brother adding humor.
Cinderella Challenge adds a touch of mystic gifts with romance.
Casey was discarded as a child due to her gifts. She masquerades as a boy to protect herself.
She is taken in and raised as a man. She reaches out to the Home Office where there are others with special gifts.
Cameron comes to help her and realizes she is “the one” with his own special gifts.
He brings her back to the family where she has to decide on her own identity.
A sweet romance connected to the author’s series Dangerous Gifts.
Winter’s Wish is truly a Cinderella retelling with a stepmother, stepsisters, and Lady Estella being treated as their servant.
Estella escapes them during a Duke’s house party to the conservatory where she meets the gardener.
They carry on clandestine meetings throughout the week with spectacular kisses.
Until she finds out her gardener is actual the Duke in disguise.
Adorable romance.
Enjoyed each romantic storyline, Highly recommend.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mistletoe Maiden by S. Jeffries
I love it when authors wrap real history into fiction and using my favorite hobby into it made this story charming. Noel is a man dealing with grief. Eve is grieving her own issues. The difference between the two was enlightening. I adored how she made him realize he was not alone. The scene in the Palace was adorable as Jimmy was adorable too! 5 stars
The Cinderella Challenge by MJ Putney
A rather different tale with a mystical twist about people with a “gift”. Casey is a mix of sweet and brave with her life turned upside down…twice. Cameron is a hard cinnamon roll hero. This was a rather shallow story, but the characters are adorable and the descriptions put you right into the action. 4 stars
A Winter’s Wish by A. Bradley
Of the three stories, this one was my favorite . Stella is the “Cinderella” and Gabriel is her ‘prince. ‘ I enjoyed how each of them were so shy and still managed to find each other. Some of the story was giggle worthy and their connection felt very real. I enjoyed the Step-mother getting her set down, but would have loved to see her suffer at the HEA. Cornelia was hilarious at the Conservatory and Beatrice was different than what you would expect from a stepsister. Cute story 5 stars!
I received this story for free and these are my own views,
I love it when authors wrap real history into fiction and using my favorite hobby into it made this story charming. Noel is a man dealing with grief. Eve is grieving her own issues. The difference between the two was enlightening. I adored how she made him realize he was not alone. The scene in the Palace was adorable as Jimmy was adorable too! 5 stars
The Cinderella Challenge by MJ Putney
A rather different tale with a mystical twist about people with a “gift”. Casey is a mix of sweet and brave with her life turned upside down…twice. Cameron is a hard cinnamon roll hero. This was a rather shallow story, but the characters are adorable and the descriptions put you right into the action. 4 stars
A Winter’s Wish by A. Bradley
Of the three stories, this one was my favorite . Stella is the “Cinderella” and Gabriel is her ‘prince. ‘ I enjoyed how each of them were so shy and still managed to find each other. Some of the story was giggle worthy and their connection felt very real. I enjoyed the Step-mother getting her set down, but would have loved to see her suffer at the HEA. Cornelia was hilarious at the Conservatory and Beatrice was different than what you would expect from a stepsister. Cute story 5 stars!
I received this story for free and these are my own views,
October 30, 2026
Three Cinderella-themed Christmas romances: Noel Davenant, Viscount Cokesbury, runs into his sister’s best friend and her half-brother, Eve and James Archer. They were among those detained in France by Napoleon when hostilities resumed. Their story contains an embroidery competition, misunderstandings, an inheritance and love. Casey Harris is a waif who is rescued from starvation by James Harris, who protects her and teaches her about her gift. After his death, she continues to masquerade as a man in order to work at the Chatham Naval Yard. She writes a letter to the Home Office that Sir Samuel Bentham is in danger. Cameron Tremayne comes to investigate. He, too, is gifted and works for the gifted department of the Home Office run by his foster father, Lord Tremayne. There is danger, near death, rescue, cats, an inheritance and love. Finally, Estella (Stella) Harley has been forced to work as a drudge and maid to her stepmother, Lady Philippa Featherstone and her stepdaughters, Cornelia and Beatrice, after the death of her beloved father. They are going to a house part and Christmas Eve ball at the Duke of Hawthorne’s castle in Scotland. The Duke, Gabriel Ambrose Christopher Scott, was talked into the party by his valet, Rowan. Gabriel is to announce his betrothal at the ball. There is cruelty, bees, subterfuge, romance and love.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Cinderella Christmas is a collection of novellas by three rather well-known authors of historical romance. Each one can easily be finished in a couple of hours and they make for light reading.
The Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries
I did not get Cinderella vibes from this story at all, but liked that it incorporates a real Regency Christmas tradition. I enjoyed the overall plot, but it was a bit too short on the romantic feelings for me, with a very abrupt HEA.
The Cinderella Challenge by Mary Jo Putney
Unique in that it adds a paranormal element to the story and with an interesting plot that even adds a touch of mystery and suspense. It did not feel like a Cinderella re-telling to me though and unfortunately, I was also missing the romance, as the main characters spend more time apart than together and more pages are devoted to getting her outfitted with new clothes than on their feelings.
A Winters Wish by Anna Bradley
This was an excellent Cinderella re-telling with a few surprising twists that I thoroughly enjoyed. Great characters and a wonderful and sweet HEA.
I received an early copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
The Mistletoe Maiden by Sabrina Jeffries
I did not get Cinderella vibes from this story at all, but liked that it incorporates a real Regency Christmas tradition. I enjoyed the overall plot, but it was a bit too short on the romantic feelings for me, with a very abrupt HEA.
The Cinderella Challenge by Mary Jo Putney
Unique in that it adds a paranormal element to the story and with an interesting plot that even adds a touch of mystery and suspense. It did not feel like a Cinderella re-telling to me though and unfortunately, I was also missing the romance, as the main characters spend more time apart than together and more pages are devoted to getting her outfitted with new clothes than on their feelings.
A Winters Wish by Anna Bradley
This was an excellent Cinderella re-telling with a few surprising twists that I thoroughly enjoyed. Great characters and a wonderful and sweet HEA.
I received an early copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My review focuses on the entire book. I found all three stories in this collection to be truly enjoyable and absolutely loved them. These are some of my favorite authors, and they did a fantastic job with their stories. I can honestly say I wasn’t disappointed by any of them. I felt each story was worth 5 stars, hence the 5-star rating on my review.
I was excited when I read the description of this book, and found it was definitely worth my time to read. The book was a lot of fun, truly delightful, and extremely entertaining. Cinderella and Christmas are two of my favorite themes, and each author did a fabulous job with their unique story. All of the characters were well-developed and instantly likable. All of the couples were well matched and I loved how they all got their happily ever after. Overall, each story was a quick read that was engaging and focused on a Christmas romance. I highly recommend this book!!
I was excited when I read the description of this book, and found it was definitely worth my time to read. The book was a lot of fun, truly delightful, and extremely entertaining. Cinderella and Christmas are two of my favorite themes, and each author did a fabulous job with their unique story. All of the characters were well-developed and instantly likable. All of the couples were well matched and I loved how they all got their happily ever after. Overall, each story was a quick read that was engaging and focused on a Christmas romance. I highly recommend this book!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
First I adore all three authors in this charming collection. Each story was a delightful mini Hallmark movie running through my mind. I could totally see the characters going through their Christmastime journey to their Happily Ever Afters!
They were all written in a dual POV format. Such a delight to see both protagionists' thoughts throughout the stories. It really bring the characters to life so of speak for me.
All three kept me glued to the pages. Unfortunately with collections like this, they are over before I was ready for them to end!
Outside of kisses, these are sweet, charming Christmastime romances that anyone can enjoy. I know that I will definitely be re-reading them again and again! (Maybe they will continue and never end!)
First I adore all three authors in this charming collection. Each story was a delightful mini Hallmark movie running through my mind. I could totally see the characters going through their Christmastime journey to their Happily Ever Afters!
They were all written in a dual POV format. Such a delight to see both protagionists' thoughts throughout the stories. It really bring the characters to life so of speak for me.
All three kept me glued to the pages. Unfortunately with collections like this, they are over before I was ready for them to end!
Outside of kisses, these are sweet, charming Christmastime romances that anyone can enjoy. I know that I will definitely be re-reading them again and again! (Maybe they will continue and never end!)
October 27, 2026
I so enjoy novellas. I think I'm probably in the minority of that, but I like the plot developing quickly and coming to a satisfying conclusion just as quickly. I've read all three authors in the past, and have enjoyed their longer historical novels. This offering was just perfect for me. I could read one story and then go on to the next when I had another bit of time.
The Cinderella theme was interesting, and best done in Ms. Bradley's novella. Ms. Jeffries novella seemed to be following her latest series as the characters had been held in Verdun. The bit of paranormal in Ms. Putney's novella was fun and I want more about that family!!
All in all a good read over a few days when I had a moment to read!
The Cinderella theme was interesting, and best done in Ms. Bradley's novella. Ms. Jeffries novella seemed to be following her latest series as the characters had been held in Verdun. The bit of paranormal in Ms. Putney's novella was fun and I want more about that family!!
All in all a good read over a few days when I had a moment to read!
October 30, 2026
I liked Sabrina Jeffries' story the least, because I had some issues with the mmc. I felt bad about that because I do like her recent books about those who were trapped in France for eleven years after Napoleon closed the borders.
Mary Jo Putney's novella was interesting and timely, as it was about girl who's been living as a trans masc the last 14 years due to it being too dangerous to live as a woman, and she needed to work. She ended up joining the gifted family that Putney's featured in her latest books.
Anna Bradley's Cinderella story was my favorite. The good people were very good and the bad people were BAD. Both the mmc and fmc were Sweethearts. I'm glad her step family got their just desserts.
Thank you to Kensington for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Mary Jo Putney's novella was interesting and timely, as it was about girl who's been living as a trans masc the last 14 years due to it being too dangerous to live as a woman, and she needed to work. She ended up joining the gifted family that Putney's featured in her latest books.
Anna Bradley's Cinderella story was my favorite. The good people were very good and the bad people were BAD. Both the mmc and fmc were Sweethearts. I'm glad her step family got their just desserts.
Thank you to Kensington for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Overall - 4 out of 4 stars.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN * Sabrina Jeffries
3.5 out of 5. Good story, a bit of younger maturity of the characters. Very clever development about the embroidery competition. Really enjoyed that part.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE * Mary Jo Putney
4.5 out of 5. Love all of her stories about the Tremaynes. This short story was a welcome addition to the series.
A WINTER'S WISH * Anna Bradley
5.5. this one was my favorite – a delightful Cinderella story. Adored the character of the duke and Estella’s stepsister Beatrice. A great romance story.
THE MISTLETOE MAIDEN * Sabrina Jeffries
3.5 out of 5. Good story, a bit of younger maturity of the characters. Very clever development about the embroidery competition. Really enjoyed that part.
THE CINDERELLA CHALLENGE * Mary Jo Putney
4.5 out of 5. Love all of her stories about the Tremaynes. This short story was a welcome addition to the series.
A WINTER'S WISH * Anna Bradley
5.5. this one was my favorite – a delightful Cinderella story. Adored the character of the duke and Estella’s stepsister Beatrice. A great romance story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I'm willingly leaving a review. Average 3.66 stars, rounded down.
#1 Mistletoe Maiden 3.5 stars. The heroine was pushing too much to get married to the story's hero. I was never sure if I liked her or not.
#2 The Cinderella Challenge 4 stars. Interesting but the end is super cheesy. Everyone you meet is gifted but it takes a while for you to know what it means. Some kind of SPN.
#3 Winter's Wish 3.5 stars. Very sad and lots of abuse. Attempted murder, abusive stepmother and stepsister. The flirting was nice and natural between the H and h.
#1 Mistletoe Maiden 3.5 stars. The heroine was pushing too much to get married to the story's hero. I was never sure if I liked her or not.
#2 The Cinderella Challenge 4 stars. Interesting but the end is super cheesy. Everyone you meet is gifted but it takes a while for you to know what it means. Some kind of SPN.
#3 Winter's Wish 3.5 stars. Very sad and lots of abuse. Attempted murder, abusive stepmother and stepsister. The flirting was nice and natural between the H and h.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you’re looking for some historical Christmas romances that are clean or closed door, check out this anthology. It features rags to riches novellas from the English Regency era which are a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. The story by Putney isn’t as well-written than those by Jeffries and Bradley, but it’s still a delightful collection. Recommended.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Kensington through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Kensington through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
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