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Timeless Regency Collection
A Midwinter Ball
From the publisher of the #1 Amazon bestselling A Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean Romance.
Join three bestselling regency romance authors, Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, and Michele Paige Holmes, for three new regency romance novellas in A MIDWINTER BALL.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth. Two years have passed since Lord Northrup declared his intentions for Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones and forbade any other man to court her. Angry at the neglect, Analisa stopped reading his letters, never even breaking the seals. Tired of waiting, Analisa joins the house party at Mrs. Smith’s famous country home, determined to find a beau. When Lord Northrup unexpectedly joins the party, Analisa discovers she is no longer repulsed by the man who first laid claim to her hand.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon. Olivia Wallington is firmly established as a spinster, but that doesn’t stop her from dreaming about the perfect man. Ever since her father’s death, Olivia has been forced into seclusion by her mother. When her brother and his wife come for a visit, they discover the extent to which she lives under their mother’s thumb. With their help, Olivia sneaks out to attend a local ball, where she meets Edward Blakemoore. For a few divine moments, all of her dreams seem possible. But even someone like Mr. Blakemoore would be hard pressed to get past Mrs. Wallington’s fortress of protection—or past Olivia’s pride.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes. Lady Ella has been isolated on her father’s estate since her mother’s death as her father travels the world. When Alex Darling arrives with a letter from her long-dead fiancé, and a demand that she travel to London for a series of engagements, Ella thinks her father instigated the strange demands and agrees. In London, she discovers the truth behind her fiancé’s death, and that new love might be possible in the arms of the most unexpected man.
Join three bestselling regency romance authors, Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, and Michele Paige Holmes, for three new regency romance novellas in A MIDWINTER BALL.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth. Two years have passed since Lord Northrup declared his intentions for Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones and forbade any other man to court her. Angry at the neglect, Analisa stopped reading his letters, never even breaking the seals. Tired of waiting, Analisa joins the house party at Mrs. Smith’s famous country home, determined to find a beau. When Lord Northrup unexpectedly joins the party, Analisa discovers she is no longer repulsed by the man who first laid claim to her hand.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon. Olivia Wallington is firmly established as a spinster, but that doesn’t stop her from dreaming about the perfect man. Ever since her father’s death, Olivia has been forced into seclusion by her mother. When her brother and his wife come for a visit, they discover the extent to which she lives under their mother’s thumb. With their help, Olivia sneaks out to attend a local ball, where she meets Edward Blakemoore. For a few divine moments, all of her dreams seem possible. But even someone like Mr. Blakemoore would be hard pressed to get past Mrs. Wallington’s fortress of protection—or past Olivia’s pride.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes. Lady Ella has been isolated on her father’s estate since her mother’s death as her father travels the world. When Alex Darling arrives with a letter from her long-dead fiancé, and a demand that she travel to London for a series of engagements, Ella thinks her father instigated the strange demands and agrees. In London, she discovers the truth behind her fiancé’s death, and that new love might be possible in the arms of the most unexpected man.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2015
About the author
Heidi Ashworth
19 books263 followersAward-winning, best-selling author Heidi Ashworth lives with her husband and three children in the San Francisco Bay Area. She writes sweet, traditional, Regency-era romance, romantic comedy, and mystery. She is the author of the Miss Delacourt series, published by Montlake Romance. The third book in The Lord Trevelin Mysteries releases October 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
March 1, 2018
There's something so charming about a Regency era ball and in each of these stories, the heroine is not the belle of the ball, which makes each offering even more endearing. I love to visual the settings--the gowns, the anticipation, the dancing...how romantic. I found each book in the set to be satisfying, although they're each just about 100 pages long. Of course, I would be happy with more length, but each was perfect to pick up here and there.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING gives us a feisty young lady and a cocky gentleman. Analisa has given herself up for spinsterhood, since Lord Northrup spoke for her years earlier but hasn't done a thing about securing the marriage. The growth that happens with each of them is very tender and well worthwhile.
My heart went out to Olivia in SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM. Her overbearing "mother" and aunt are cold, precise, and proper, yet she finds a way to let a little sunshine into her life. I found myself cheering her antics on, especially when she finally becomes brave.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE shows a flawed man and a strong woman. Ella is strong and determined and goes along with a ploy, thinking her father's hand is in it, but she's surprised by a few discoveries along the way. I love how she's the one who can help Alex with his struggles.
This whole collection is sweet and gentle, while still giving the reader some entertainment.
Content: mild romance
*I received a copy, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions.*
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING gives us a feisty young lady and a cocky gentleman. Analisa has given herself up for spinsterhood, since Lord Northrup spoke for her years earlier but hasn't done a thing about securing the marriage. The growth that happens with each of them is very tender and well worthwhile.
My heart went out to Olivia in SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM. Her overbearing "mother" and aunt are cold, precise, and proper, yet she finds a way to let a little sunshine into her life. I found myself cheering her antics on, especially when she finally becomes brave.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE shows a flawed man and a strong woman. Ella is strong and determined and goes along with a ploy, thinking her father's hand is in it, but she's surprised by a few discoveries along the way. I love how she's the one who can help Alex with his struggles.
This whole collection is sweet and gentle, while still giving the reader some entertainment.
Content: mild romance
*I received a copy, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions.*
December 4, 2015
A Midwinter Ball consists of three different regency stories, all novella length and each by a different author. Regency romance is one of my favorite genres so I was excited to read this! I love the pictures regency romances paint in my head- especially at the ball!
Sometimes when I read novellas I feel a bit disappointed because I feel like they were over too fast and I wanted more of the story. These stories were all perfect though. I felt like I knew the characters and had a firm beginning, middle and end. They left me feeling satisfied in the end. Romantic, sweet and sigh worthy.
Content: Clean!
Sometimes when I read novellas I feel a bit disappointed because I feel like they were over too fast and I wanted more of the story. These stories were all perfect though. I felt like I knew the characters and had a firm beginning, middle and end. They left me feeling satisfied in the end. Romantic, sweet and sigh worthy.
Content: Clean!
February 8, 2016
This is a satisfying Regency Romance compilation. This book contains three novella's written by different author's. All three centered around a ball, but there is more to the story than a mere ball.
I liked all of the stories, but one stood out to me. That was the final story by Michele Paige Holmes. It may be because the love interests were unlikely characters. They were both fresh and unspoiled by society. Alex Darling has lost the use of his arm and Ella shows him that he can function and be a whole man. I think it was the overall message of acceptance in the story that appealed to me.
The other two stories were also fun to read. Overall, another great addition to the Timeless Romance Collection.
I liked all of the stories, but one stood out to me. That was the final story by Michele Paige Holmes. It may be because the love interests were unlikely characters. They were both fresh and unspoiled by society. Alex Darling has lost the use of his arm and Ella shows him that he can function and be a whole man. I think it was the overall message of acceptance in the story that appealed to me.
The other two stories were also fun to read. Overall, another great addition to the Timeless Romance Collection.
December 1, 2015
A set of 3 short stories about Regency England, and romance at a ball:} Perfect. The first story was well done I had a little trouble with the start up, I felt like I was coming into an established story. I loved the second two and will be reading more from both those authors. All three authors are ones I have read and liked and I love the whole regency period so this book was a no brainier read:} I knew I would love it before I pick it up. I love these types of books and will be looking forward to more.
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April 8, 2019
3.5 stars
Three novellas taking place at winter balls.
Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth takes place at Mrs. Smith's annual house party and ball to find husbands for young ladies. Analisa Smith-Jones, self-proclaimed old maid, is staying with Mrs. Smith to help the younger ladies prepare for the ball. She has no hopes of finding a husband for herself. Lord Northrup, Analisa's unwanted suitor is making finding a husband extra difficult with his letters. When he turns up in person, Analisa is furious. How can she find a husband when Lord Northrup scares away her suitors? She'll never marry anyone let alone Northrup, not even if he's the last man on earth.
I really didn't understand the point of this story. Lord Northrup is a creepy stalker and Analisa can't decide what she wants. I didn't like either of their behavior. I also think Mrs. Smith's house party seems a tad unrealistic given the time period and why is Analisa old at 20? This is an unmemorable story and not my favorite.
In Sweeter than Any Dream by Annette Lyon, Olivia has no hopes of ever leaving her mother's house. Her autocratic mother controls every moment of Olivia's day and begrudges any moment Olivia tries to spend on her own. When Olivia's brother Andrew and his new wife arrive to attend the ball and see old school friends, Mrs. Wallingford is furious they won't be spending every waking minute with HER. While Andrew seems to be the dutiful son, he and his bride have a few secrets up their sleeves. Edward Blakemore doesn't believe in love and has no intentions of making a business arrangement known as marriage. He sees his old school friend James Clement smitten with his bride Fanny but rejects Edward's attempts at matchmaking. That is until he meets an enchanting lady in the woods by chance and can't stop thinking about her.
This is my favorite story of the three. I really felt for Olivia. She is emotionally abused by her mother and aunt and kept a virtual prisoner. Anything she tries to do or say for herself results in punishment. I can't imagine living that kind of life. This story has potential to be a sappy Cinderella story but it isn't. I don't believe in love at first sight and this story is not one of those. It's love at first conversation based on a shared love of gothic literature. I adored Andrew and Emma and how Emma helps Olivia come out of her depressed shell. They're very sweet. Edward is a nice hero and is a change from the usual rakish types I normally enjoy. This is a very sweet story.
An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes is more of a traditional Regency plot. Eleanora "Ella" Whitticomb is mistress of her father's estate and has run of the wood. She loves her horse and running through the autumn woods. If she had to admit one thing she doesn't like it is the loneliness of living along. Since her Mama died, her Papa has been off adventuring but he promised to return to send for Ella when she turns 18. Mr. Alexander Darling is charged with delivering a message to Lady Ella from her late fiance, Lord Henry Benton. He desires her to come to London to find a husband who appreciates Ella as much he did. Ella is confused and upset. She wants nothing to with London or husbands, all she wants is her Papa! Alexander is less than impressed with Lady Ella but when he remarks to his friend Gregory, the late Lord Henry's brother, that he predicts that it will take someone who pities her a great deal for her to secure any sort of offer by the end of the Season, Gregory takes that as a challenge. He is willing to wager that she shall find herself betrothed by the first of May. Alexander feels this will be an impossible task but not wanting to lose, he takes it upon himself to befriend Ella in London. He is unprepared for the young lady's forthright nature and lack of pity for his disabled hand! Which gentleman will win the wager?
I like this story more than the average young hoyden leads hero on a merry dance story because the hero has a permanent disability. An injury to one of his hands leaves him unable to use it normally. All he wants is to be able to do everything a man can do. It takes Ella's friendship for him to stop pitying himself and learn what he CAN do. I like the growing friendship between them. The plot twist at the end surprised me and I'm not sure I like it. It's a little unusual but the final scene is pretty swoonworthy! This is a cute story.
Three novellas taking place at winter balls.
Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth takes place at Mrs. Smith's annual house party and ball to find husbands for young ladies. Analisa Smith-Jones, self-proclaimed old maid, is staying with Mrs. Smith to help the younger ladies prepare for the ball. She has no hopes of finding a husband for herself. Lord Northrup, Analisa's unwanted suitor is making finding a husband extra difficult with his letters. When he turns up in person, Analisa is furious. How can she find a husband when Lord Northrup scares away her suitors? She'll never marry anyone let alone Northrup, not even if he's the last man on earth.
I really didn't understand the point of this story. Lord Northrup is a creepy stalker and Analisa can't decide what she wants. I didn't like either of their behavior. I also think Mrs. Smith's house party seems a tad unrealistic given the time period and why is Analisa old at 20? This is an unmemorable story and not my favorite.
In Sweeter than Any Dream by Annette Lyon, Olivia has no hopes of ever leaving her mother's house. Her autocratic mother controls every moment of Olivia's day and begrudges any moment Olivia tries to spend on her own. When Olivia's brother Andrew and his new wife arrive to attend the ball and see old school friends, Mrs. Wallingford is furious they won't be spending every waking minute with HER. While Andrew seems to be the dutiful son, he and his bride have a few secrets up their sleeves. Edward Blakemore doesn't believe in love and has no intentions of making a business arrangement known as marriage. He sees his old school friend James Clement smitten with his bride Fanny but rejects Edward's attempts at matchmaking. That is until he meets an enchanting lady in the woods by chance and can't stop thinking about her.
This is my favorite story of the three. I really felt for Olivia. She is emotionally abused by her mother and aunt and kept a virtual prisoner. Anything she tries to do or say for herself results in punishment. I can't imagine living that kind of life. This story has potential to be a sappy Cinderella story but it isn't. I don't believe in love at first sight and this story is not one of those. It's love at first conversation based on a shared love of gothic literature. I adored Andrew and Emma and how Emma helps Olivia come out of her depressed shell. They're very sweet. Edward is a nice hero and is a change from the usual rakish types I normally enjoy. This is a very sweet story.
An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes is more of a traditional Regency plot. Eleanora "Ella" Whitticomb is mistress of her father's estate and has run of the wood. She loves her horse and running through the autumn woods. If she had to admit one thing she doesn't like it is the loneliness of living along. Since her Mama died, her Papa has been off adventuring but he promised to return to send for Ella when she turns 18. Mr. Alexander Darling is charged with delivering a message to Lady Ella from her late fiance, Lord Henry Benton. He desires her to come to London to find a husband who appreciates Ella as much he did. Ella is confused and upset. She wants nothing to with London or husbands, all she wants is her Papa! Alexander is less than impressed with Lady Ella but when he remarks to his friend Gregory, the late Lord Henry's brother, that he predicts that it will take someone who pities her a great deal for her to secure any sort of offer by the end of the Season, Gregory takes that as a challenge. He is willing to wager that she shall find herself betrothed by the first of May. Alexander feels this will be an impossible task but not wanting to lose, he takes it upon himself to befriend Ella in London. He is unprepared for the young lady's forthright nature and lack of pity for his disabled hand! Which gentleman will win the wager?
I like this story more than the average young hoyden leads hero on a merry dance story because the hero has a permanent disability. An injury to one of his hands leaves him unable to use it normally. All he wants is to be able to do everything a man can do. It takes Ella's friendship for him to stop pitying himself and learn what he CAN do. I like the growing friendship between them. The plot twist at the end surprised me and I'm not sure I like it. It's a little unusual but the final scene is pretty swoonworthy! This is a cute story.
March 14, 2018
I love these Timeless Regency Collections because the stories are longer and the characters can be more developed. These 3 Regency novellas all take place at a midwinter ball.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth--Analisa Lloyd-Jones has been engaged to Lord Northrup for the past two years. His declaration and threats have scared off all the eligible men who might have even danced with her, needless to say she's not happy at it. At 20 years old, she's the oldest of the young women at Mrs. Smith's Dance Hall. Analisa's prepared to be a spinster since she hasn't seen Lord Northrup since his declaration for her hand. To defend Lord Northrup he did write her a letter each month he's been away in the military, but she stopped reading them after a few months and they're in her room with the seals unbroken. If she had taken the time to read the letters she would've found out he was not the person she remembered--he had learned to control his temper and was no longer so full of himself. Analisa does some growing up of her own in having to admit to own her faults.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon--Olivia Wallington lives a sad existence with her widowed mother and aunt. She's never had a Season, doesn't attend any social events, rarely leaves home, and has to watch what she says and does to avoid her mother's criticism. Olivia tries her best to have them not notice her so she can be left in peace. "She'd come to accept her fate as a spinster", but still dreamed of attending a ball and dancing with a handsome man. Luckily her brother, Andrew, and his new wife come to visit on their way back from their honeymoon tour and are invited to a ball for a friend of Andrew's. He and his new bride make a plan to sneak Olivia out to her very first ball where she meets the oh so handsome Mr. Edward Blakemoore.
This was my favorite story in the collection. I felt so bad for Olivia and enjoyed how Andrew was able to sneak her away to attend the ball. Who knew poison ivy could be so handy. I also loved the mother and aunt's reactions when they found out Olivia had attended the ball. You would've thought she'd done something scandalous and ruined the family name. lol
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes--Eleanora Whitticomb (Lady Ella) is another young lady who's never had a season, because after her mother died her father handled his grief by traveling the continent. She was engaged to be married, but her fiancé (Lord Henry Benton) died 5 years before, and now she's content and happiest when riding her horse. Enter Alexander Darling with an invitation from her long-dead fiancé to go to London for a ball. Ella's been expecting to hear from her father about joining him on his travels, and thinking the letter is test of some sort from him goes to London with Mr. Darling. There she meets her deceased fiancé's brother (Lord Gregory Benton) and learns the truth behind Henry's death. As she spends time in London she gets to know Mr. Darling better and finds out why her father hasn't sent for her to join him in his travels.
Neither Lady Ella or Mr. Darling make a good impression on each other when they first meet. I thought he could've been a little more forthcoming with his reason for being there and about the deceased Lord Henry Benton. He does redeem himself in my eyes as the story goes on.
I thought all of these stories read as stories longer than a novella. They didn't feel rushed nor did I feel the characters relationships were rushed. Another enjoyable read in the Timeless Collection.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth--Analisa Lloyd-Jones has been engaged to Lord Northrup for the past two years. His declaration and threats have scared off all the eligible men who might have even danced with her, needless to say she's not happy at it. At 20 years old, she's the oldest of the young women at Mrs. Smith's Dance Hall. Analisa's prepared to be a spinster since she hasn't seen Lord Northrup since his declaration for her hand. To defend Lord Northrup he did write her a letter each month he's been away in the military, but she stopped reading them after a few months and they're in her room with the seals unbroken. If she had taken the time to read the letters she would've found out he was not the person she remembered--he had learned to control his temper and was no longer so full of himself. Analisa does some growing up of her own in having to admit to own her faults.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon--Olivia Wallington lives a sad existence with her widowed mother and aunt. She's never had a Season, doesn't attend any social events, rarely leaves home, and has to watch what she says and does to avoid her mother's criticism. Olivia tries her best to have them not notice her so she can be left in peace. "She'd come to accept her fate as a spinster", but still dreamed of attending a ball and dancing with a handsome man. Luckily her brother, Andrew, and his new wife come to visit on their way back from their honeymoon tour and are invited to a ball for a friend of Andrew's. He and his new bride make a plan to sneak Olivia out to her very first ball where she meets the oh so handsome Mr. Edward Blakemoore.
This was my favorite story in the collection. I felt so bad for Olivia and enjoyed how Andrew was able to sneak her away to attend the ball. Who knew poison ivy could be so handy. I also loved the mother and aunt's reactions when they found out Olivia had attended the ball. You would've thought she'd done something scandalous and ruined the family name. lol
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes--Eleanora Whitticomb (Lady Ella) is another young lady who's never had a season, because after her mother died her father handled his grief by traveling the continent. She was engaged to be married, but her fiancé (Lord Henry Benton) died 5 years before, and now she's content and happiest when riding her horse. Enter Alexander Darling with an invitation from her long-dead fiancé to go to London for a ball. Ella's been expecting to hear from her father about joining him on his travels, and thinking the letter is test of some sort from him goes to London with Mr. Darling. There she meets her deceased fiancé's brother (Lord Gregory Benton) and learns the truth behind Henry's death. As she spends time in London she gets to know Mr. Darling better and finds out why her father hasn't sent for her to join him in his travels.
Neither Lady Ella or Mr. Darling make a good impression on each other when they first meet. I thought he could've been a little more forthcoming with his reason for being there and about the deceased Lord Henry Benton. He does redeem himself in my eyes as the story goes on.
I thought all of these stories read as stories longer than a novella. They didn't feel rushed nor did I feel the characters relationships were rushed. Another enjoyable read in the Timeless Collection.
January 11, 2016
4.5 stars
I don't know what it is about reading stories from historical England, particularly the Regency period, but I know that I always enjoy them with their charming gentleman, proper etiquette (that can add to some wonderful humor and romance), their lovely dresses, and some sweet romance when the couple is looking for love and not just wealth or station. A MIDWINTER BALL represents all of that as its three novellas involve, in some way, dancing or a ball. I loved seeing the various women's reactions to such events, some in excitement, others in disdain, and one in hope at the prospects. I enjoyed seeing the men who seek their hearts and how they seek to know the hearts of these women and to court them. Even though each story is around 100 pages, the writing was wonderful, the characters well developed, and the stories engaging. It was an enjoyable compilation from beginning to end.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth. If you've enjoyed Heidi's other stories with their crazy antics and hilarity, this story also promised much the same, but with a feisty and confrontational heroine who thought her heart wanted something to find that she was mistaken. I felt rather sad for the heroine, Analisa, because she makes such a fool of herself even though she doesn't mean to. She has done everything to avoid a course that she hasn't even assessed what she wants properly. She has a ways to come, some soul-searching, and some amends to make. I liked seeing how she develops and gains some maturity. I also loved the sweet moments in this one that were made sweeter by the heartbreak both characters experienced. Loved it!
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon. This was such a great story! I was getting a little restless with Olivia's situation because I didn't want her to continue on the path she had been set on and then things get stirred up. She has the opportunity for love. I loved the way she changes and finally finds herself. I loved her brother and his wife. I also loved the hero, Edward, and how he really puts it all on the line. It was a very sweet and heartwarming story. Another one that I loved!
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes. This was probably my favorite of the set. I loved the way the main characters first meet and how spirited Ella is, while she also shows a tenderness and vulnerability. I loved the tension, the heartbreaking moments, how both characters challenge each other, how they begin not caring for each other, develop a friendship, and then come to the possibility of more. The ending had a rather humorous moment and then a very sweet one. This story was a perfect ending the collection.
A MIDWINTER BALL was another novella collection that I thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end. I'd recommend it to all romance readers, especially those who enjoy their stories on the sweeter side.
Content: Clean
Source: Received a complimentary copy from one of the authors, which did not affect my review in any way.
I don't know what it is about reading stories from historical England, particularly the Regency period, but I know that I always enjoy them with their charming gentleman, proper etiquette (that can add to some wonderful humor and romance), their lovely dresses, and some sweet romance when the couple is looking for love and not just wealth or station. A MIDWINTER BALL represents all of that as its three novellas involve, in some way, dancing or a ball. I loved seeing the various women's reactions to such events, some in excitement, others in disdain, and one in hope at the prospects. I enjoyed seeing the men who seek their hearts and how they seek to know the hearts of these women and to court them. Even though each story is around 100 pages, the writing was wonderful, the characters well developed, and the stories engaging. It was an enjoyable compilation from beginning to end.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth. If you've enjoyed Heidi's other stories with their crazy antics and hilarity, this story also promised much the same, but with a feisty and confrontational heroine who thought her heart wanted something to find that she was mistaken. I felt rather sad for the heroine, Analisa, because she makes such a fool of herself even though she doesn't mean to. She has done everything to avoid a course that she hasn't even assessed what she wants properly. She has a ways to come, some soul-searching, and some amends to make. I liked seeing how she develops and gains some maturity. I also loved the sweet moments in this one that were made sweeter by the heartbreak both characters experienced. Loved it!
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon. This was such a great story! I was getting a little restless with Olivia's situation because I didn't want her to continue on the path she had been set on and then things get stirred up. She has the opportunity for love. I loved the way she changes and finally finds herself. I loved her brother and his wife. I also loved the hero, Edward, and how he really puts it all on the line. It was a very sweet and heartwarming story. Another one that I loved!
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes. This was probably my favorite of the set. I loved the way the main characters first meet and how spirited Ella is, while she also shows a tenderness and vulnerability. I loved the tension, the heartbreaking moments, how both characters challenge each other, how they begin not caring for each other, develop a friendship, and then come to the possibility of more. The ending had a rather humorous moment and then a very sweet one. This story was a perfect ending the collection.
A MIDWINTER BALL was another novella collection that I thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end. I'd recommend it to all romance readers, especially those who enjoy their stories on the sweeter side.
Content: Clean
Source: Received a complimentary copy from one of the authors, which did not affect my review in any way.
November 5, 2017
Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth – Lord Northrup is determined to marry Analisa. When he left for the continent two years ago, he put in place measures to ensure she would still be unwed when he returned. Analisa has no desire to marry the arrogant, hot-tempered Lord Northrup. She hasn’t even opened most of the letters he has sent the past two years. When he returns, he seems to have changed. Now Analisa must discover if her feelings will change as well.
I liked Lord Northrup and felt for him. Of course, we only see him after he returns to England. I think I would have despised the man he was before that. Thankfully he changed! Annalisa seemed somewhat confused and naïve, and a bit desperate at times. It was interesting to watch her try to figure out her own mind. This is the first thing I have read by this author, and I’m looking forward to reading more by her!
Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon – Olivia Wallington has accepted that she is a spinster. She lives with her mother and aunt who mistreat her. To endure, she escapes to her daydreams where her perfect man waits. When her brother and his new wife come to visit, they sneak Olivia out of the house to attend a neighbor’s ball. There, Olivia is introduced to Edward Blakemoore. She is sure he could never be interested in a spinster like her, but maybe love won’t have to stay in her dreams.
Olivia is filled with goodness. I felt it in her thoughts and saw it in her actions. It was wonderful to watch her gain confidence and strength. Her mother and aunt were horrible to her! I was so glad her brother insisted she attend the ball. Edward was a great match for her! I’m so glad they both found love.
An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes – Lady Ella wishes she were traveling with her father. Instead she has been left alone at the country estate since her mother’s death four years ago. Now, a stranger has come to her home with a letter from her long-dead fiancé, asking her to join him in London for a ball. Confused and sure this is a hoax, Ella heads to London, hoping that somehow her father is behind this and she will soon get to travel with him.
Ella was so refreshing! She didn’t need all the fussy things society ladies wanted. She was comfortable with being herself. I loved the way she treated Alexander and the affect she had on him. Interesting twist at the end!
Each of these novellas was great! I’d have a hard time picking a favorite. This is another great book in the Timeless Regency Collection!!
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked Lord Northrup and felt for him. Of course, we only see him after he returns to England. I think I would have despised the man he was before that. Thankfully he changed! Annalisa seemed somewhat confused and naïve, and a bit desperate at times. It was interesting to watch her try to figure out her own mind. This is the first thing I have read by this author, and I’m looking forward to reading more by her!
Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon – Olivia Wallington has accepted that she is a spinster. She lives with her mother and aunt who mistreat her. To endure, she escapes to her daydreams where her perfect man waits. When her brother and his new wife come to visit, they sneak Olivia out of the house to attend a neighbor’s ball. There, Olivia is introduced to Edward Blakemoore. She is sure he could never be interested in a spinster like her, but maybe love won’t have to stay in her dreams.
Olivia is filled with goodness. I felt it in her thoughts and saw it in her actions. It was wonderful to watch her gain confidence and strength. Her mother and aunt were horrible to her! I was so glad her brother insisted she attend the ball. Edward was a great match for her! I’m so glad they both found love.
An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes – Lady Ella wishes she were traveling with her father. Instead she has been left alone at the country estate since her mother’s death four years ago. Now, a stranger has come to her home with a letter from her long-dead fiancé, asking her to join him in London for a ball. Confused and sure this is a hoax, Ella heads to London, hoping that somehow her father is behind this and she will soon get to travel with him.
Ella was so refreshing! She didn’t need all the fussy things society ladies wanted. She was comfortable with being herself. I loved the way she treated Alexander and the affect she had on him. Interesting twist at the end!
Each of these novellas was great! I’d have a hard time picking a favorite. This is another great book in the Timeless Regency Collection!!
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2015
I finished the Timeless Romance Anthology A Midwinter Ball over the weekend and I have to say I really enjoyed it.
The first one is Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth. I mentioned to you last week how easy it was to lose myself in this one. Analisa's angst was real and I felt so bad for Lord Northrup. Even though this was a novella, I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of the characters and how fleshed out the story was. I really enjoyed it.
The second one was Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon. Poor Olivia Wallington is pretty much emotionally abused in her own home by her mother and aunt. She's careful not to bring any attention to herself that might earn her an avalanche of either insults, being treated like a child, or given the silent treatment. But even with that upbringing, she is still sweet and dreams of her perfect man. When her newly married brother comes for a visit, he takes pity on her and sneaks her out of the house to a ball. Olivia decides to be her real self while at said ball, her one chance to do something she's only dreamed of. Of course she meets her brother's old school chum and they are immediately attracted to each other's intelligence, opinions, and wit. But the way to love is full of thorns when you have a mother like Olivia Wallington does. An enthralling tale!
The last one was An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes. This one was one I read slowly. Alex Darling has been sent to collect Lady Ella from her estate and bring her to London for a ball and possibly a season. Ella doesn't want to go. She's waiting for her father to send for her and take her on his travels around the world. Thinking it may be a test from her father, she does go, but not before making an indelible first impression on Mr. Darling. As events unfold, Ella finds out the truth about her fiance's death, why Mr. Darling is so reclusive, and how much her father truly does love her. Definitely a story to be savored.
Of course the one thing in common that each story has is a Midwinter Ball. And what is there not to love about a regency ball in all its finery! I definitely recommend this one.
The first one is Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth. I mentioned to you last week how easy it was to lose myself in this one. Analisa's angst was real and I felt so bad for Lord Northrup. Even though this was a novella, I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of the characters and how fleshed out the story was. I really enjoyed it.
The second one was Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon. Poor Olivia Wallington is pretty much emotionally abused in her own home by her mother and aunt. She's careful not to bring any attention to herself that might earn her an avalanche of either insults, being treated like a child, or given the silent treatment. But even with that upbringing, she is still sweet and dreams of her perfect man. When her newly married brother comes for a visit, he takes pity on her and sneaks her out of the house to a ball. Olivia decides to be her real self while at said ball, her one chance to do something she's only dreamed of. Of course she meets her brother's old school chum and they are immediately attracted to each other's intelligence, opinions, and wit. But the way to love is full of thorns when you have a mother like Olivia Wallington does. An enthralling tale!
The last one was An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes. This one was one I read slowly. Alex Darling has been sent to collect Lady Ella from her estate and bring her to London for a ball and possibly a season. Ella doesn't want to go. She's waiting for her father to send for her and take her on his travels around the world. Thinking it may be a test from her father, she does go, but not before making an indelible first impression on Mr. Darling. As events unfold, Ella finds out the truth about her fiance's death, why Mr. Darling is so reclusive, and how much her father truly does love her. Definitely a story to be savored.
Of course the one thing in common that each story has is a Midwinter Ball. And what is there not to love about a regency ball in all its finery! I definitely recommend this one.
December 1, 2015
I am loving this collection! First, I get to read regency romances by authors I can trust to write them clean. Second, I have another collection to read while I wait for the next Timeless Romance Anthology to come out. Like the Autumn Masquerade, this collection did not disappoint!
A Merry Dance
Analisa considers herself firmly on the shelf after three seasons and no proposals. She never even gets asked to dance! It's all Lord Northrop's fault. Having decided years earlier that they were going to marry, he has threatened and scared off all of the other young men, even while he was abroad.
Now Analisa is at Mrs. Smith's famous country home, dubbed the Dance Hall. She hopes this house party will change her luck!
Lord Northrop was pretty high-handed, but I still found myself liking him in spite of it. I loved Analisa's quick wit, and I loved watching her and Northrop together!
Sweeter than Any Dream by Annette Lyon
Olivia lives with her domineering aunt and mother. She feels like she has to hide her opinions and preferences to avoid their sharp tongues. Her only solace is her imagination. When her brother, Andrew and his wife come to visit, they sneak Olivia off to a neighbor's ball. Can reality be even better than her imagination?
An Invitation to Dance
Ella Whitticomb was engaged to Lord Benton who died in a duel when she was 15. Now a Mr. Darling has come to her country home insisting she come to London to meet him. Is he dead or not? Does is really matter as long as she gets away from the loneliness of her country estate?
I really enjoyed all three stories! Naturally, I loved the balls and the idea of donning a fancy gown for the evening. I also loved the characters. The characters were realistically flawed, yet still good earnest men.
This book stands independently, although I highly recommend Autumn Masquerade, if you haven't read it already. I can't wait for the next collection!
Content: clean (some kissing)
A Merry Dance
Analisa considers herself firmly on the shelf after three seasons and no proposals. She never even gets asked to dance! It's all Lord Northrop's fault. Having decided years earlier that they were going to marry, he has threatened and scared off all of the other young men, even while he was abroad.
Now Analisa is at Mrs. Smith's famous country home, dubbed the Dance Hall. She hopes this house party will change her luck!
Lord Northrop was pretty high-handed, but I still found myself liking him in spite of it. I loved Analisa's quick wit, and I loved watching her and Northrop together!
Sweeter than Any Dream by Annette Lyon
Olivia lives with her domineering aunt and mother. She feels like she has to hide her opinions and preferences to avoid their sharp tongues. Her only solace is her imagination. When her brother, Andrew and his wife come to visit, they sneak Olivia off to a neighbor's ball. Can reality be even better than her imagination?
An Invitation to Dance
Ella Whitticomb was engaged to Lord Benton who died in a duel when she was 15. Now a Mr. Darling has come to her country home insisting she come to London to meet him. Is he dead or not? Does is really matter as long as she gets away from the loneliness of her country estate?
I really enjoyed all three stories! Naturally, I loved the balls and the idea of donning a fancy gown for the evening. I also loved the characters. The characters were realistically flawed, yet still good earnest men.
This book stands independently, although I highly recommend Autumn Masquerade, if you haven't read it already. I can't wait for the next collection!
Content: clean (some kissing)
March 12, 2016
This is a wonderful compilation of novellas that involve a winter ball in the setting. In each story the event propels the plot forward and serves as a catalyst for change in the relationship between the main characters. There's something special and almost magical about the energy of a dance that is so looked forward to, especially in those times. I enjoyed all the stories and felt drawn into the conflict and resolution each presented. The first story was a bit choppy, but I really liked the premise of the long absent fiancè making a sudden reappearance in Analisa's life. Daydreaming Olivia from the second story was easy to relate to with her imagination, but I could never have the patience she did with her abusive relatives! I loved the adventurous spirit of Ella in the last story and the hesitant relationship with her former fiancé’s grumpy friend. This is a collection I will be re-reading for sure!
(Thank you to Ebooks For Review for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Ebooks For Review for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
November 4, 2017
The first in this anthology was a clunker and the author left me confused with trying to determine who the heroine was falling for as the clues were contradictory. The second wasn’t bad the though I wanted a more dramatic “rescue” than the one offered (from either of them). The last was my favorite and interesting though the twist in the end about the father was a little over the top and perhaps the secret admirer thing could have been omitted entirely.
Want to Read
February 10, 2016This has been nominated for a 2016 Swoony Award. Share the love and vote for it here.
February 8, 2016
I really liked this new book in the Timeless Regency Collection series. The romances are clean and sweet and fun. You can't go wrong in reading these books! :)
See my full review here: http://smilingbookreviews.blogspot.co...
In Much Ado About Dancing, Lord Northrup has to find a way to convince Analisa that he's a changed man from the one that left two years ago. Analisa has to find a way to forget and forgive the man that he was when he left and learn who he is now. A well written novella with a lovely ending!
In Sweeter Than Any Dream, Olivia holds onto her sanity by daydreaming about a different life and a perfect man. Although smart and well read, Olivia has lived with the tyranny of her mother and her aunt for awhile and tries not to make waves. When her newly married brother and his wife persuade her to sneak out to a ball she meets the man of her dreams. In order to realize her dream of love she will have to grow a backbone and stand up for herself. I loved this sweet story of dreams coming true!
In An Invitation To Dance, Lady Ella has been on her own for several years as her grief stricken father travels the world. She is bold, vibrant, and used to doing things her way. When she receives a letter from her long-dead fiance at the hands of Alex Darling, she thinks it may be her father surprising her for her birthday. When she gets to London and learns differently, she finds herself relying on Mr. Darling to help her through the season. When they start falling in love, Ella has to convince him to let go of his pride and open his heart to her. I really enjoyed this well written novella about a spunky, unconventional Lady and the gruff proud man who falls in love with her.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
See my full review here: http://smilingbookreviews.blogspot.co...
In Much Ado About Dancing, Lord Northrup has to find a way to convince Analisa that he's a changed man from the one that left two years ago. Analisa has to find a way to forget and forgive the man that he was when he left and learn who he is now. A well written novella with a lovely ending!
In Sweeter Than Any Dream, Olivia holds onto her sanity by daydreaming about a different life and a perfect man. Although smart and well read, Olivia has lived with the tyranny of her mother and her aunt for awhile and tries not to make waves. When her newly married brother and his wife persuade her to sneak out to a ball she meets the man of her dreams. In order to realize her dream of love she will have to grow a backbone and stand up for herself. I loved this sweet story of dreams coming true!
In An Invitation To Dance, Lady Ella has been on her own for several years as her grief stricken father travels the world. She is bold, vibrant, and used to doing things her way. When she receives a letter from her long-dead fiance at the hands of Alex Darling, she thinks it may be her father surprising her for her birthday. When she gets to London and learns differently, she finds herself relying on Mr. Darling to help her through the season. When they start falling in love, Ella has to convince him to let go of his pride and open his heart to her. I really enjoyed this well written novella about a spunky, unconventional Lady and the gruff proud man who falls in love with her.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
February 10, 2016
4.5--I adore the regency period, but I have to say, I am so glad I didn't have to feel like a spinster at age 20!! Even Olivia in book two was 28. Girls are getting married later these days so 28 being considered a spinster is almost laughable! And here I thought I married young at 24. ;)
Anyway, these were all delightful regency romances. None of them left me feeling like they were missing anything. They were all adorable, enjoyable stories!
Much Ado About Dancing:
This was a sweet story. I liked the etiquette lesson when he joined the girls...and how he spoke so she could hear and then came right up to her and whispered in her ear. *swoon* Love little moments like that. And when she read the letters...I just love when love letters are involved. In any way in a story. This was a sweet, enjoyable regency!
Sweeter Than Any Dream :
Her mother was just the worst. And the aunt. What a pair. But her brother and his wife were great, even though they were small characters. You could tell he loved his sister and didn't want her cooped up like her mother did.
And Edward. Even though it was a novella, I liked him right away and loved their meeting and other interactions. I wish this one had been a full length novel! Even though it was "insta-love," it didn't feel like it. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
An Invitation To Dance:
I loved Mr. Darling. I loved their morning rides and how Ella never belittled or pitied his arm...she helped him accept and use it even more. And the ending...loved how it all came together with the notes from her "admirer." It's safe to say I loved this story. ;)
All in all, another great compilation. I'm loving these regency collections!
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions above are my own.**
Anyway, these were all delightful regency romances. None of them left me feeling like they were missing anything. They were all adorable, enjoyable stories!
Much Ado About Dancing:
This was a sweet story. I liked the etiquette lesson when he joined the girls...and how he spoke so she could hear and then came right up to her and whispered in her ear. *swoon* Love little moments like that. And when she read the letters...I just love when love letters are involved. In any way in a story. This was a sweet, enjoyable regency!
Sweeter Than Any Dream :
Her mother was just the worst. And the aunt. What a pair. But her brother and his wife were great, even though they were small characters. You could tell he loved his sister and didn't want her cooped up like her mother did.
And Edward. Even though it was a novella, I liked him right away and loved their meeting and other interactions. I wish this one had been a full length novel! Even though it was "insta-love," it didn't feel like it. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
An Invitation To Dance:
I loved Mr. Darling. I loved their morning rides and how Ella never belittled or pitied his arm...she helped him accept and use it even more. And the ending...loved how it all came together with the notes from her "admirer." It's safe to say I loved this story. ;)
All in all, another great compilation. I'm loving these regency collections!
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions above are my own.**
December 27, 2015
This is a collection of three novellas, and all of them take place during regency times in December.
Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth-4 stars. Really enjoyed this one. I was really unsure what was going to happen at the beginning of this one, and that is rare for a novella. It kept me reading and I really enjoyed this one.
Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon-3 stars. Our main character is a 28-year-old spinster who dreams of the perfect man. Then she meets our hero, and her dreams start to include him. The reason I didn't love this one as much was it was hard for me to read about the mother and aunt being so mean and callous. And secondly, I can't imagine declaring that you love someone after meeting and talking with them twice. That's just a pet peeve of mine. I know people claim there is love at first sight, but I am not a big believer in that or in super quick romances but it is just a fun, short novella.
An Invitation to Dance by Michelle Paige Holmes-4 stars. I also really enjoyed this little story. I was glad to see our hero being so kind and strong. I wish it was longer, but alas, that is the nature of the beast with novellas.
All of these stories are really well written and super fun to read when you don't have a lot of time but want a little clean, old-fashioned, great romance.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth-4 stars. Really enjoyed this one. I was really unsure what was going to happen at the beginning of this one, and that is rare for a novella. It kept me reading and I really enjoyed this one.
Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon-3 stars. Our main character is a 28-year-old spinster who dreams of the perfect man. Then she meets our hero, and her dreams start to include him. The reason I didn't love this one as much was it was hard for me to read about the mother and aunt being so mean and callous. And secondly, I can't imagine declaring that you love someone after meeting and talking with them twice. That's just a pet peeve of mine. I know people claim there is love at first sight, but I am not a big believer in that or in super quick romances but it is just a fun, short novella.
An Invitation to Dance by Michelle Paige Holmes-4 stars. I also really enjoyed this little story. I was glad to see our hero being so kind and strong. I wish it was longer, but alas, that is the nature of the beast with novellas.
All of these stories are really well written and super fun to read when you don't have a lot of time but want a little clean, old-fashioned, great romance.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2021
Much Ado About Dancing by Heidi Ashworth - 2 stars....When I first read this blurb I was super excited to get into it. After reading it however, I am beyond disappointed 😔 This was heartbreaking. I understand why Analisa would have been angry at Northrop initially but she was so selfish and mean spirited, I thought that she treated him way worse than he deserved. I hated that she played with his emotions even after realizing that he had changed for the better. It was also shocking how she was easily swayed by 2 others who were not the H. Very fickle indeed. I must say that I loved Northrop though. He was sweet, respectful and so very patient with the h. I’m very disappointed.
Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon - 3.5 stars....I loved the Cinderella feel I got from this story. Edward and Olivia were great characters and I enjoyed seeing them connect.
An Invitation To Dance by Michele Paige Holmes - 4.5 stars....I loved this story. Alex and Ella developed a beautiful friendship. Although he felt flawed due to an injury, I loved that Ella didn’t treat him differently. Rather she showed him that he could do anything a, for lack of a better word, ‘normal’ man could. This was a sweet inspirational story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Content: Clean
Sweeter Than Any Dream by Annette Lyon - 3.5 stars....I loved the Cinderella feel I got from this story. Edward and Olivia were great characters and I enjoyed seeing them connect.
An Invitation To Dance by Michele Paige Holmes - 4.5 stars....I loved this story. Alex and Ella developed a beautiful friendship. Although he felt flawed due to an injury, I loved that Ella didn’t treat him differently. Rather she showed him that he could do anything a, for lack of a better word, ‘normal’ man could. This was a sweet inspirational story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Content: Clean
December 24, 2015
Between 3 1/2 and 4, on account of the first story.
The first story was really hard to get through, and I had to force myself to finish reading it. I couldn't relate to any of the characters, and the plot managed to be both vapid and convoluted. I can't recommend this story at all.
I liked how the second story was about an "older" miss who learns to stand for herself and the gentleman who sees her true worth.
The last story was my favorite, about an independent, unconventional miss and a gentleman who thinks himself unworthy of love.
All three stories revolve about balls and dancing.
The first story was really hard to get through, and I had to force myself to finish reading it. I couldn't relate to any of the characters, and the plot managed to be both vapid and convoluted. I can't recommend this story at all.
I liked how the second story was about an "older" miss who learns to stand for herself and the gentleman who sees her true worth.
The last story was my favorite, about an independent, unconventional miss and a gentleman who thinks himself unworthy of love.
All three stories revolve about balls and dancing.
May 26, 2016
Loved these novellas!
December 28, 2015
I love Regency England!
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August 12, 2017
Of the three stories, MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth, SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon, and AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes, I'm really torn as to which I liked the best. The first story didn't resonate very well with me, but the last two were delightful stories. I loved the characters and sympathized with them. DREAM had a case of insta-love, but I enjoyed the characters anyway and the ending was sweet. Perhaps it was the INVITATION, then, that wins. It's ending was swoon-worthy.
4 1/2 stars
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was wonderful!
4 1/2 stars
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was wonderful!
June 6, 2018
I may need to stop reading so many Regency stories. :) But since it's summer break....
April 29, 2019
This was such a great book!! I loved every story!!!
February 15, 2016
Another Timeless Regency Collection, have you caught a theme yet? I LOVE anthologies and I LOVE regency romances!
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth
Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones may as well have the plague for as much attention as the men give her. She sits as a constant wall flower at the dances, she’s become the running joke among the ladies, and men don’t even give her a second glance when in the same room as her. Her plague comes with a name: Lord Northrup. Lord Northrup has made it clear that while he is abroad traveling that Analisa is his, no man with any brains will touch her while he is away. When he shows up unexpectedly at a party, Analisa is confused and angry. Time may not have changed him and she’s not ready to give him a chance to prove his adoration.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon
Olivia Wallington lives with her sharp tongued mother and aunt, forced to endure hurtful jibes and withering glares. Destined to live out her spinster life living in daydreams and quietly enduring the two strong women in her life, Olivia has all but given up hope. When her brother comes home with his new wife and a promise to sneak her out of the house to enjoy a ball, Olivia feels that she may have a chance to build a new and everlasting memory to get her through the rest of her years.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes
Living quietly alone in her home while her father travels and her dear mother has passed away, Lady Ella spends her days outdoors riding horses and enjoying the more unladylike activities. When a stranger shows up on her doorstep with a request from her dead fiancé asking for her to join him in London, her curiosity is more than peaked. Packing up her meager belongings, Ella makes the trip to London only to find that the rules of stuffy society are not what she enjoys. With the help of Alex Darling, she learns that there are ways to have fun and escape the ton.
These are sweet regency romance novellas. My favorite would be An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes, and my least favorite would be Heidi Ashworth’s Much Ado About Dancing. I found the latter dragged and I couldn’t get into the characters or the dialogue. I enjoyed Michele Page Holmes’ tale because the Tomboy, Ella, reminded me of myself and I found myself with a smile as I read her plight. I do enjoy anthologies, they always give you a taste of a new author if you are not familiar with them and you get a chance to read more of the authors that you have come to love.
*I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth
Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones may as well have the plague for as much attention as the men give her. She sits as a constant wall flower at the dances, she’s become the running joke among the ladies, and men don’t even give her a second glance when in the same room as her. Her plague comes with a name: Lord Northrup. Lord Northrup has made it clear that while he is abroad traveling that Analisa is his, no man with any brains will touch her while he is away. When he shows up unexpectedly at a party, Analisa is confused and angry. Time may not have changed him and she’s not ready to give him a chance to prove his adoration.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon
Olivia Wallington lives with her sharp tongued mother and aunt, forced to endure hurtful jibes and withering glares. Destined to live out her spinster life living in daydreams and quietly enduring the two strong women in her life, Olivia has all but given up hope. When her brother comes home with his new wife and a promise to sneak her out of the house to enjoy a ball, Olivia feels that she may have a chance to build a new and everlasting memory to get her through the rest of her years.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes
Living quietly alone in her home while her father travels and her dear mother has passed away, Lady Ella spends her days outdoors riding horses and enjoying the more unladylike activities. When a stranger shows up on her doorstep with a request from her dead fiancé asking for her to join him in London, her curiosity is more than peaked. Packing up her meager belongings, Ella makes the trip to London only to find that the rules of stuffy society are not what she enjoys. With the help of Alex Darling, she learns that there are ways to have fun and escape the ton.
These are sweet regency romance novellas. My favorite would be An Invitation to Dance by Michele Paige Holmes, and my least favorite would be Heidi Ashworth’s Much Ado About Dancing. I found the latter dragged and I couldn’t get into the characters or the dialogue. I enjoyed Michele Page Holmes’ tale because the Tomboy, Ella, reminded me of myself and I found myself with a smile as I read her plight. I do enjoy anthologies, they always give you a taste of a new author if you are not familiar with them and you get a chance to read more of the authors that you have come to love.
*I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
December 10, 2015
This is a collection of three novellas. All three had great characters, great story lines, and were fun to read!
Much Ado About Dancing - Analisa Lloyd-Jones is almost 20 years old, but after three seasons she believes she is an old maid. Lord Northrup is the young earl who fell in love with her when she was younger and was convinced she was the right woman for him. So unknown to her, he scared off all the other suitors before he left for a few years. When she finds out that he is responsible for the lack of gentleman callers, that just gives her one more reason not to like him. But now that he's back she is realizing that he has changed a lot in the two years he has been gone, and she may want to give him a chance after all.
Sweeter Than Any Dream - Olivia is a 28-year-old spinster with a sharp mind and a great imagination, who lives with her mother and her Aunt Matilda - who are both mean and pretentious with sharp tongues. They have never been kind to Olivia, but as a spinster woman in North Yorkshire in 1824, if Olivia wants a place to live and food to eat, she has to put up with it. Her brother Andrew comes to town with his new wife to attend a ball given by one of his friends from his Eton days. Andrew and Emma play fairy godmother to give Olivia one fun night at the ball without her mother's knowledge. Edward Blakemoore is another friend of Andrew's from Eton who is in town for the ball who is immediately drawn to Olivia's intelligence and good humor.
An Invitation to Dance - Eleanora Whitticomb, better known as Lady Ella, is 20 years old and is content to live in the country. She has no need to ever go to London or to get married. She is waiting for her father to send for her so she can join him on his grand adventures. So she is surprised when a messenger shows up with a note from her dead fiance inviting her to a ball in London. Alexander Darling is the poor man commissioned with delivering the letter to her and getting her to London. He may have told a few slight falsehoods to get her to come to London. I loved how Ella helps Alex see that he is still a complete man in spite of losing the use of one of his arms five years ago.
Content: Very clean
Source: Review copy (opinion is 100% my own)
Much Ado About Dancing - Analisa Lloyd-Jones is almost 20 years old, but after three seasons she believes she is an old maid. Lord Northrup is the young earl who fell in love with her when she was younger and was convinced she was the right woman for him. So unknown to her, he scared off all the other suitors before he left for a few years. When she finds out that he is responsible for the lack of gentleman callers, that just gives her one more reason not to like him. But now that he's back she is realizing that he has changed a lot in the two years he has been gone, and she may want to give him a chance after all.
Sweeter Than Any Dream - Olivia is a 28-year-old spinster with a sharp mind and a great imagination, who lives with her mother and her Aunt Matilda - who are both mean and pretentious with sharp tongues. They have never been kind to Olivia, but as a spinster woman in North Yorkshire in 1824, if Olivia wants a place to live and food to eat, she has to put up with it. Her brother Andrew comes to town with his new wife to attend a ball given by one of his friends from his Eton days. Andrew and Emma play fairy godmother to give Olivia one fun night at the ball without her mother's knowledge. Edward Blakemoore is another friend of Andrew's from Eton who is in town for the ball who is immediately drawn to Olivia's intelligence and good humor.
An Invitation to Dance - Eleanora Whitticomb, better known as Lady Ella, is 20 years old and is content to live in the country. She has no need to ever go to London or to get married. She is waiting for her father to send for her so she can join him on his grand adventures. So she is surprised when a messenger shows up with a note from her dead fiance inviting her to a ball in London. Alexander Darling is the poor man commissioned with delivering the letter to her and getting her to London. He may have told a few slight falsehoods to get her to come to London. I loved how Ella helps Alex see that he is still a complete man in spite of losing the use of one of his arms five years ago.
Content: Very clean
Source: Review copy (opinion is 100% my own)
January 5, 2016
I really struggled with the first two books in A Midwinter Ball. The first one especially (Much Ado About Dancing) just didn't seem to flow easily for me. I will admit that Regency Romance is not my favorite type of romance to read but I really struggled with Much Ado About Dancing. I never could figure out what it was that I never could get into the book but it just was not my favorite.
The second book was a little easier for me to read. Sweeter Than Any Dream is the story of Olivia and her emotionally abusive mother and aunt. They are very cruel to Olivia and basically put her down every chance they get. Luckily, Olivia has a brother and sister-in-law that love her and want her to be able to experience life and have a chance at marriage. I love the way the brother comes in to help his sister out so that she can hopefully have a happy life!
My favorite of the three stories was An Invitation to Dance. Without giving anything away, this shows how sometimes people show love in different ways. What might be thought of love by one is seen as abandonment by another. I love that Ella does not judge people and she treats everyone equally. She is able to look past other peoples faults to see the good and see their potential.
Other than the first story, I felt the stories were all well written and flowed fairly easily. The books had enough depth to them that I didn't feel like the story was rushed or parts cut out. I would recommend this to anyone who likes to read regency romance books as it was a fairly quick read (I easily read one story each night).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The second book was a little easier for me to read. Sweeter Than Any Dream is the story of Olivia and her emotionally abusive mother and aunt. They are very cruel to Olivia and basically put her down every chance they get. Luckily, Olivia has a brother and sister-in-law that love her and want her to be able to experience life and have a chance at marriage. I love the way the brother comes in to help his sister out so that she can hopefully have a happy life!
My favorite of the three stories was An Invitation to Dance. Without giving anything away, this shows how sometimes people show love in different ways. What might be thought of love by one is seen as abandonment by another. I love that Ella does not judge people and she treats everyone equally. She is able to look past other peoples faults to see the good and see their potential.
Other than the first story, I felt the stories were all well written and flowed fairly easily. The books had enough depth to them that I didn't feel like the story was rushed or parts cut out. I would recommend this to anyone who likes to read regency romance books as it was a fairly quick read (I easily read one story each night).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2015
This is a collection of 3 novellas that are all in the regency time period and each story has a midwinter ball in it. The first one Much Ado about Dancing is about Analisa who is unofficially promised to Lord Northrup. She is at a house party and he shows up after traveling for 2 years. Analisa has had no prospects for 2 years because Lord Northrup has scared them off. She is mad at him but as she gets to know him again she realizes he has changed. Is this actually a love match? The next story Sweeter than any dream is about Olivia a 28 year old spinster who is afraid to be herself because her mother and aunt won't allow it. Edward is suppose to find a wife but he is not interested until he has a chance meeting along a roadside with Olivia. They meet again at a ball and the attraction is felt. Can Edward convince Olivia that she is not an old spinster and that he very much would like to marry her? The last story and my favorite is An Invitation to Dance. Lady Ella has been summoned to London by her dead fiancé's brother and his wife. They want her to have a season so she can find a husband. Lady Ella does not want a husband and does not like the confines of London. Alexander Darling has lost the use of one of his arms and feels less of a man. He avoids society because of this. Alexander takes Ella out riding each morning so she can get out and the two start to fall in love. Can Alexander see past his handicap and realizes Lady Ella loves him and thinks he is fine the way he is?
December 29, 2015
The Timeless Romance books are always great to read. They are fun and always clean. I really like this collection because I’m a huge fan of regency romance. These novellas are reminiscent of Georgette Heyer. They are funny, witty and romantic.
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth is a nice story about Analisa, who has been betrothed for 2 years but hasn’t seen her intended, Lord Northrup for that time. She has been upset and hasn’t read any of his letters. This sets the stage for misunderstandings and some interesting problems. I liked how they each had to realize their mistakes and then learn to trust each other and of course realize their feeling towards each other.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon is about spinster, Olivia. This is a sweet Cinderella story and I loved how her hero, Edward overcame the difficulties in the relationship and showed Olivia that he did indeed love her. I especially loved Olivia’s brother and wife and their help in making sure the romance happened. I really liked Olivia and her pride. She was a fun one.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes is a very interesting tale of lost love, lost father and a little mystery thrown in to make things interesting. I enjoyed reading about Lady Ella and her suitor, Alex. It was fun watching them develop a relationship and watching Lady Ella realize what she really wanted
These stories are fun and interesting. They are a great way to spend a winter afternoon
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth is a nice story about Analisa, who has been betrothed for 2 years but hasn’t seen her intended, Lord Northrup for that time. She has been upset and hasn’t read any of his letters. This sets the stage for misunderstandings and some interesting problems. I liked how they each had to realize their mistakes and then learn to trust each other and of course realize their feeling towards each other.
SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon is about spinster, Olivia. This is a sweet Cinderella story and I loved how her hero, Edward overcame the difficulties in the relationship and showed Olivia that he did indeed love her. I especially loved Olivia’s brother and wife and their help in making sure the romance happened. I really liked Olivia and her pride. She was a fun one.
AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes is a very interesting tale of lost love, lost father and a little mystery thrown in to make things interesting. I enjoyed reading about Lady Ella and her suitor, Alex. It was fun watching them develop a relationship and watching Lady Ella realize what she really wanted
These stories are fun and interesting. They are a great way to spend a winter afternoon
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
January 20, 2017
My rating is probably more a 3.3. I found that I had a hard time with the beginning of Much Ado About Dancing. I had a hard time even following the story initially and then became irked when it was obvious that she was going to end up with the man that had been such a jerk. Eventually I liked him but I was quite disappointed in the beginning. I don't know why the story was hard to follow for me. I have enjoyed other Heidi Ashworth books quite well. But this one didn't measure up for me.
The other two stories were better. The mother and aunt in Sweeter than any Dream were horrendous and while I can understand Olivia's desire to not rock the boat, I felt like it would perhaps have been better if she had stood up for herself all along. I wondered if they would have treated her better for doing so.
An Invitation to Dance was probably my favorite of the three. I liked that Ella had no pity and higher expectations for Mr. Darling than he had for himself. I didn't care of the twist with her father though. I didn't feel he made the best decision in staying away. It was rather cruel even if he thought it was best for her.
I got this book winning a giveaway.
The other two stories were better. The mother and aunt in Sweeter than any Dream were horrendous and while I can understand Olivia's desire to not rock the boat, I felt like it would perhaps have been better if she had stood up for herself all along. I wondered if they would have treated her better for doing so.
An Invitation to Dance was probably my favorite of the three. I liked that Ella had no pity and higher expectations for Mr. Darling than he had for himself. I didn't care of the twist with her father though. I didn't feel he made the best decision in staying away. It was rather cruel even if he thought it was best for her.
I got this book winning a giveaway.
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