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Spindle Cove #4.5
Lord Dashwood Missed Out
A snowstorm hath no fury like a spinster scorned!
Miss Elinora Browning grew up yearning for the handsome, intelligent lord-next-door…but he left England without a word of farewell. One night, inspired by a bit too much sherry, Nora poured out her heartbreak on paper. Lord Dashwood Missed Out was a love letter to every young lady who’d been overlooked by gentlemen—and an instant bestseller. Now she’s on her way to speak in Spindle Cove when snowy weather delays her coach. She’s forced to wait out the storm with the worst possible companion: Lord Dashwood himself.
And he finally seems to have noticed her.
George Travers, Lord Dashwood, has traveled the globe as a cartographer. He returned to England with the goal of marrying and creating an heir--only to find his reputation shredded by an audacious, vexingly attractive bluestocking and her poison pen. Lord Dashwood Missed Out, his arse. Since Nora Browning seems to believe he overlooked the passion of a lifetime, Dash challenges her to prove it.
She has one night.
Miss Elinora Browning grew up yearning for the handsome, intelligent lord-next-door…but he left England without a word of farewell. One night, inspired by a bit too much sherry, Nora poured out her heartbreak on paper. Lord Dashwood Missed Out was a love letter to every young lady who’d been overlooked by gentlemen—and an instant bestseller. Now she’s on her way to speak in Spindle Cove when snowy weather delays her coach. She’s forced to wait out the storm with the worst possible companion: Lord Dashwood himself.
And he finally seems to have noticed her.
George Travers, Lord Dashwood, has traveled the globe as a cartographer. He returned to England with the goal of marrying and creating an heir--only to find his reputation shredded by an audacious, vexingly attractive bluestocking and her poison pen. Lord Dashwood Missed Out, his arse. Since Nora Browning seems to believe he overlooked the passion of a lifetime, Dash challenges her to prove it.
She has one night.
144 pages, ebook
First published December 8, 2015
561 people are currently reading
4242 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Dare
51 books15k followersSign up for Tessa's newsletter and be the first to hear about new books and hot deals! http://tessadare.com/newsletter-signup/
Tessa Dare is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of fourteen historical romance novels and five novellas. Her books have won numerous accolades, including Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA® award (twice!) and the RT Book Reviews Seal of Excellence. Booklist magazine named her one of the “new stars of historical romance," and her books have been contracted for translation in more than a dozen languages.
A librarian by training and a booklover at heart, Tessa makes her home in Southern California, where she lives with her husband, their two children, and a trio of cosmic kitties.
Tessa Dare is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of fourteen historical romance novels and five novellas. Her books have won numerous accolades, including Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA® award (twice!) and the RT Book Reviews Seal of Excellence. Booklist magazine named her one of the “new stars of historical romance," and her books have been contracted for translation in more than a dozen languages.
A librarian by training and a booklover at heart, Tessa makes her home in Southern California, where she lives with her husband, their two children, and a trio of cosmic kitties.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,206 reviews
August 26, 2023
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved this one! It has the trademark humor that I totally dig in all the Tessa Dare romances, and it's the perfect length to read on a lunch break.
Ok.
So Nora was a somewhat naive and fanciful young lady who had a massive crush on the boy next door. And the boy next door was Lord Dashwood. Unfortunately, he apparently didn't feel the same way about his best friend's little sister, and callously broke her heart by leaving London without so much as a backward wave in her direction - much less a romantic dance!
Flash forward several years and Nora is a successful writer of feminist literature and much sought after speaker, mainly due to her pamphlet Lord Ashwood Missed Out that she penned as an essay after Dash waltzed out of her life. Now she writes and speaks to young women about not needing a man to find fulfillment.
So. There.
Enter Dash. Back from sailing around the world as an adventurous cartographer, the young lord should have the world at his feet! Except that pesky pamphlet is ruining his chances of finding a woman willing to marry him.
Or so he says.
Maybe he just wants a chance to argue with the girl next door one more time?
Loved it, loved it, loved it!
Funny & sweet with well-written characters. The sparks fly off the pages in this shorty.
If you're looking for something to tide you over until Dare releases her next novel, this is definitely one to snag.
Highly Recommended!
I absolutely loved this one! It has the trademark humor that I totally dig in all the Tessa Dare romances, and it's the perfect length to read on a lunch break.
Ok.
So Nora was a somewhat naive and fanciful young lady who had a massive crush on the boy next door. And the boy next door was Lord Dashwood. Unfortunately, he apparently didn't feel the same way about his best friend's little sister, and callously broke her heart by leaving London without so much as a backward wave in her direction - much less a romantic dance!
Flash forward several years and Nora is a successful writer of feminist literature and much sought after speaker, mainly due to her pamphlet Lord Ashwood Missed Out that she penned as an essay after Dash waltzed out of her life. Now she writes and speaks to young women about not needing a man to find fulfillment.
So. There.
Enter Dash. Back from sailing around the world as an adventurous cartographer, the young lord should have the world at his feet! Except that pesky pamphlet is ruining his chances of finding a woman willing to marry him.
Or so he says.
Maybe he just wants a chance to argue with the girl next door one more time?
Loved it, loved it, loved it!
Funny & sweet with well-written characters. The sparks fly off the pages in this shorty.
If you're looking for something to tide you over until Dare releases her next novel, this is definitely one to snag.
Highly Recommended!
Read
November 17, 2015So... this is coming soon!
December 8th in e-book and audio. I'm still waiting to learn the paperback edition's release date, but it should follow the e-release shortly.
If you'd like to read an excerpt, check out my blog today: "Ripping the Bodice"
Dash and Nora are a new couple to Spindle Cove, but many previous Spindle Cove characters are in the story. (As usual, Colin demanded to have all the best lines.)
December 8th in e-book and audio. I'm still waiting to learn the paperback edition's release date, but it should follow the e-release shortly.
If you'd like to read an excerpt, check out my blog today: "Ripping the Bodice"
Dash and Nora are a new couple to Spindle Cove, but many previous Spindle Cove characters are in the story. (As usual, Colin demanded to have all the best lines.)
February 10, 2016
1,5 Stars
Part of the Spindle Cove series, waiting for book 5, this short novella features as the main couple Lord Dashwood, explorer and cartographer, and Miss Elinora Browning, spinster authoress of a scathing pamphlet warning young ladies against the lures of untrustworthy scoundrels and sharp, and a not-so-veiled, invective addressed at the man who so callously broke her girlish delusions about love.
Growing up together, Nora and Dash have always harboured a tendre for each other, but after a disastrous first London Season their paths parted not in the best of terms and for several years. Now that Nora has been invited to Spindle Cove for a public speech, a coach accident and a snowbound refuge could finally give them a second chance.
While I was sort of expecting a more rushed confection, I found also the story itself, the dialogues and the interactions to be rather boring and confusing. The characters' motivations were not very clear, especially Nora's with her flimsily based resentment, but also Dash's reasons first for leaving and then for his renewed interest were not explained enough to result believable. So, at the end, it looked like these two went from pouting and hurling accusations at each other to hopping into bed at lightning speed and without making much sense.
Besides all of the above, the frequent and superfluous scenes parading previous leads in the series further detracted potential from an already barely sketched out plot arc.
Historical Accuracy: nada de nada, a total lack of which in Dare's books is usually amply remedied and forgiven thanks to delightful amounts of utterly enjoyable fluffy-fun (two lovely examples in this same series A Week to Be Wicked and A Lady by Midnight), but sorry to say it was not the case here.
November 30, 2015
Review now posted...
This! This right here is why I read historical romance when I’m looking to escape. Lord Dashwood Missed Out is laugh out loud funny, steamy and - at moments - tender. And even better still? This novella doesn’t read or feel like a novella which makes it escapism reading at its best because it can be read anytime, even when you don't have much time!
Blurb…
A snowstorm hath no fury like a spinster scorned!
Miss Elinora Browning grew up yearning for the handsome, intelligent lord-next-door…but he left England without a word of farewell. One night, inspired by a bit too much sherry, Nora poured out her heartbreak on paper. Lord Dashwood Missed Out was a love letter to every young lady who’d been overlooked by gentlemen—and an instant bestseller. Now she’s on her way to speak in Spindle Cove when snowy weather delays her coach. She’s forced to wait out the storm with the worst possible companion: Lord Dashwood himself.
And he finally seems to have noticed her.
George Travers, Lord Dashwood, has traveled the globe as a cartographer. He returned to England with the goal of marrying and creating an heir--only to find his reputation shredded by an audacious, vexingly attractive bluestocking and her poison pen. Lord Dashwood Missed Out, his arse. Since Nora Browning seems to believe he overlooked the passion of a lifetime, Dash challenges her to prove it.
She has one night.
Keeping this short and sweet…
Spindle Cove is a great series and Tessa Dare is one of my favorite historical romance authors because she tells the stories I want to read; stories of amazing characters written with humor, passion, and poignancy! Whatever you do, don’t you miss out!
An eARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation, I’m giving them an honest review!
This! This right here is why I read historical romance when I’m looking to escape. Lord Dashwood Missed Out is laugh out loud funny, steamy and - at moments - tender. And even better still? This novella doesn’t read or feel like a novella which makes it escapism reading at its best because it can be read anytime, even when you don't have much time!
Blurb…
A snowstorm hath no fury like a spinster scorned!
Miss Elinora Browning grew up yearning for the handsome, intelligent lord-next-door…but he left England without a word of farewell. One night, inspired by a bit too much sherry, Nora poured out her heartbreak on paper. Lord Dashwood Missed Out was a love letter to every young lady who’d been overlooked by gentlemen—and an instant bestseller. Now she’s on her way to speak in Spindle Cove when snowy weather delays her coach. She’s forced to wait out the storm with the worst possible companion: Lord Dashwood himself.
And he finally seems to have noticed her.
George Travers, Lord Dashwood, has traveled the globe as a cartographer. He returned to England with the goal of marrying and creating an heir--only to find his reputation shredded by an audacious, vexingly attractive bluestocking and her poison pen. Lord Dashwood Missed Out, his arse. Since Nora Browning seems to believe he overlooked the passion of a lifetime, Dash challenges her to prove it.
She has one night.
Keeping this short and sweet…
Spindle Cove is a great series and Tessa Dare is one of my favorite historical romance authors because she tells the stories I want to read; stories of amazing characters written with humor, passion, and poignancy! Whatever you do, don’t you miss out!
An eARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation, I’m giving them an honest review!
May 20, 2020
3 second chance stars
I borrowed the Audible version of this book from my e-library, and I found it to be an enjoyable listen though a bit of an odd addition to the Spindle Cove series as neither of the main characters were residents or even frequent visitors of the area as is the case with the rest of this series.
Elinora ("Nora") Browning fell in love with her neighbor at a very young age, and she never got over him, though he rejected her when she came out in society a few years ago. Instead of feeling sorry for herself as many young women would, she decided to take the more empowering route and decide that HE was the one who missed out, thus, she wrote an essay she titled, "Lord Ashwood Missed Out" that was later published as a pamphlet and has since received significant attention, especially from other single women. This is how she finds herself on her way to a speaking engagement at Spindle Cove... via a carriage... alone... with one other passenger: Lord DASHwood, the very gentleman who spurned her advances those years ago. Awkward.
George Travers, Lord Dashwood ("Dash" to those close to him), was more than a little displeased to discover the scathing pamphlet his childhood friend's sister wrote about "Lord Ashwood" (ahem). Obviously, the set down was written about him, and now that he has Nora where he wants her (ie, where she can't escape his stares and questions), he plans to get to the bottom of things. Just what did he miss out on exactly? He plans to get Nora to tell him - in detail - before the journey is over. But what will happen when they are stranded overnight together in a blizzard? Will Dash admit he missed out, and if so, what does he plan to do about it? Will it be too little, too late for Nora? And what will happen when a deception is uncovered?
While the story was decent, there were some things I didn't like that happened a little later in the story.
Overall, a cute story with not as much steam as I tend to like, but still a good read. I enjoyed the supporting role of the men of Spindle Cove in their adventures to find Nora, and their one upping each other to please their wives added some great humor.
Plot --- 3/5
Main Characters --- 3.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- a fight is alluded to, but no gory details
Language --- none that I can recall
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
I borrowed the Audible version of this book from my e-library, and I found it to be an enjoyable listen though a bit of an odd addition to the Spindle Cove series as neither of the main characters were residents or even frequent visitors of the area as is the case with the rest of this series.
Elinora ("Nora") Browning fell in love with her neighbor at a very young age, and she never got over him, though he rejected her when she came out in society a few years ago. Instead of feeling sorry for herself as many young women would, she decided to take the more empowering route and decide that HE was the one who missed out, thus, she wrote an essay she titled, "Lord Ashwood Missed Out" that was later published as a pamphlet and has since received significant attention, especially from other single women. This is how she finds herself on her way to a speaking engagement at Spindle Cove... via a carriage... alone... with one other passenger: Lord DASHwood, the very gentleman who spurned her advances those years ago. Awkward.
George Travers, Lord Dashwood ("Dash" to those close to him), was more than a little displeased to discover the scathing pamphlet his childhood friend's sister wrote about "Lord Ashwood" (ahem). Obviously, the set down was written about him, and now that he has Nora where he wants her (ie, where she can't escape his stares and questions), he plans to get to the bottom of things. Just what did he miss out on exactly? He plans to get Nora to tell him - in detail - before the journey is over. But what will happen when they are stranded overnight together in a blizzard? Will Dash admit he missed out, and if so, what does he plan to do about it? Will it be too little, too late for Nora? And what will happen when a deception is uncovered?
While the story was decent, there were some things I didn't like that happened a little later in the story.
Overall, a cute story with not as much steam as I tend to like, but still a good read. I enjoyed the supporting role of the men of Spindle Cove in their adventures to find Nora, and their one upping each other to please their wives added some great humor.
Plot --- 3/5
Main Characters --- 3.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- a fight is alluded to, but no gory details
Language --- none that I can recall
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
December 13, 2015
In the Acknowledgments section of this book, Ms. Dare says that she knows that "missed out" isn't strictly Regency usage, so she's got some knowledge about what's historically accurate regarding the written and spoken language used in Regency times. That said, why oh why had she decided to throw that knowledge out the window when she wrote the story? The only thing that reminded me that this was a historical novel was the way its characters dressed. Everything else - the story setup and development, the characters' actions and language - was off the mark and I just couldn't get into the story.
I've let that kind of historical inaccuracies go in other books before, as I'm not exactly an expert on the subject, but the story must be worth it. Unfortunately, I couldn't make myself do it this time. I didn't understand the reason behind Dash's leaving all those years before and his sudden return, and when the main event that sets a story up fails to make sense to me, the whole story falls apart to me.
Ms. Dare missed out. Pun intended.
I've let that kind of historical inaccuracies go in other books before, as I'm not exactly an expert on the subject, but the story must be worth it. Unfortunately, I couldn't make myself do it this time. I didn't understand the reason behind Dash's leaving all those years before and his sudden return, and when the main event that sets a story up fails to make sense to me, the whole story falls apart to me.
Ms. Dare missed out. Pun intended.
December 7, 2021
Tessa Dare is always a damn delight.
February 6, 2017
cute. I liked them both.
February 6, 2022
I'm normally not one for novellas but I'm a sucker for Spindle Cove. This was a cute and quick visit to Spinster Cove where I got to catch up with my old favorites while Elinora and George get reacquainted. Cheesy but endearing I like this but I wanted more.
November 1, 2017
I couldn’t get over his callous treatment of the heroine.
There was basically a making out with OW in front of her to deliberately hurt her.
And when he claims he “realised” the truth instead of grovelling or begging for her forgiveness he was still shrewd and lewd to her reminding her of exactly how he treated her in past and reminder of his “possible indiscretions”.
He did NOT seek forgiveness. EVER.
The whole premise seemed like a revenge story where he decided to keep her after taking her virginity.
Despite the little map thing, I didn’t believe for a single moment that he had any intention of courting her of marrying her IF he was able to find a better prospect.
That’s the feelings I PERSONALLY got out of this book. His reasoning was NOT believable to me. Heroine didn’t really believe it either.
However, romance novel requirement, word counts etc forced heroine to take him back.
He also wasn’t “really” a virgin. Seriously speaking just because there wasn’t consummation he gets to call himself virgin and it didn’t sit right with me!
Heroine was second best to his career. I don’t care how he or author try to justify it. He left her behind without a word, without any promise. He only came back to her as heroine pointed out because she was convenient, he wouldn’t have to look for a wife to produce his much needed heir. He didn’t deserve her.
And he was STILL cruel to her when he was “claiming” he was looking for his chance to win heroine over.
Sure.
I get so turned on every time a guy tells me “you are a foolish woman to ever think I’d have any romantic notion towards you. You’re supposed to grow out of it when you grow up”
Such arousing romantic words.
There was basically a making out with OW in front of her to deliberately hurt her.
And when he claims he “realised” the truth instead of grovelling or begging for her forgiveness he was still shrewd and lewd to her reminding her of exactly how he treated her in past and reminder of his “possible indiscretions”.
He did NOT seek forgiveness. EVER.
The whole premise seemed like a revenge story where he decided to keep her after taking her virginity.
Despite the little map thing, I didn’t believe for a single moment that he had any intention of courting her of marrying her IF he was able to find a better prospect.
That’s the feelings I PERSONALLY got out of this book. His reasoning was NOT believable to me. Heroine didn’t really believe it either.
However, romance novel requirement, word counts etc forced heroine to take him back.
He also wasn’t “really” a virgin. Seriously speaking just because there wasn’t consummation he gets to call himself virgin and it didn’t sit right with me!
Heroine was second best to his career. I don’t care how he or author try to justify it. He left her behind without a word, without any promise. He only came back to her as heroine pointed out because she was convenient, he wouldn’t have to look for a wife to produce his much needed heir. He didn’t deserve her.
And he was STILL cruel to her when he was “claiming” he was looking for his chance to win heroine over.
Sure.
I get so turned on every time a guy tells me “you are a foolish woman to ever think I’d have any romantic notion towards you. You’re supposed to grow out of it when you grow up”
Such arousing romantic words.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2021
“Luckily, the world is a sphere. I was always traveling toward you. I just took the long way around.”
My favorite Dare novella yet!! Perfect pacing, a great childhood frenemies to lovers dynamic, and hilarious cameos from favorite Spindle Cove characters. If you love her Spindle Cove novels, this novella is not one to miss.
My favorite Dare novella yet!! Perfect pacing, a great childhood frenemies to lovers dynamic, and hilarious cameos from favorite Spindle Cove characters. If you love her Spindle Cove novels, this novella is not one to miss.
June 6, 2016
2.5 stars
“Do you know,” he said, “you’re ravishing when you’re trying to hate me forever.”
Was fun to get glimpses of past main couple's from the series. Alas, the novella format alludes me again with rushed romance and a not quite historical feel.
“Do you know,” he said, “you’re ravishing when you’re trying to hate me forever.”
Was fun to get glimpses of past main couple's from the series. Alas, the novella format alludes me again with rushed romance and a not quite historical feel.
April 28, 2018
If only....
If only it hadn’t been a novella
If only they hadn’t had to share space with every other couple
And every other character
If only it weren’t for those weirdly paced starts
I enjoyed some of the dialogue, some of the steam, the cute gestures
But in the end, it seems we all missed out on the best parts: the developing relationship and characters.
If only it hadn’t been a novella
If only they hadn’t had to share space with every other couple
And every other character
If only it weren’t for those weirdly paced starts
I enjoyed some of the dialogue, some of the steam, the cute gestures
But in the end, it seems we all missed out on the best parts: the developing relationship and characters.
March 29, 2020
This was exactly what I needed today!!
December 15, 2015
I like novellas sometimes. They are great for diversions between reads or when I just need a breather before jumping back into a series or something else I’m reading. Tessa Dare has a fun sense of humor and romantic notions that can be a lot of fun even in 100 pages or less.
Nora knew she love Lord Dashwood since they were children. She had grand plans of marrying him and having all his children. But when he decided that he wanted to see the world and have some accomplishments of his own she was heartbroken and then she was angry and then she decided she didn’t need a man to have accomplishments.
She wrote a little pamphlet about why he missed out. But now he is back and maybe just maybe he has other ideas on what really happened and why they were better off that he left in the first place. Unless she can convince him otherwise.
This was adorably cute with a very satisfying conclusion. There is also the added benefit of seeing most of the other Spindle Cove couples be cutesy with each other and an manly expedition between the husbands to escort Nora through the storm to her speaking engagement.
If you’ve read the rest of the Spindle Cove series then it is great fun to see them all again. If not then it is just a short romantic tale that will be missing a little magic as you don’t care about the plethora of side characters in it.
This does have all of Tessa Dare’s charming whit and lovable banter just pocket sized.
Nora knew she love Lord Dashwood since they were children. She had grand plans of marrying him and having all his children. But when he decided that he wanted to see the world and have some accomplishments of his own she was heartbroken and then she was angry and then she decided she didn’t need a man to have accomplishments.
She wrote a little pamphlet about why he missed out. But now he is back and maybe just maybe he has other ideas on what really happened and why they were better off that he left in the first place. Unless she can convince him otherwise.
“I don’t care how many lovers you’ve taken, nor how experienced they were.” She held up her index finger. “I have more passion in one fingertip than they have in their whole bodies.”
He propped an elbow on the table. A smile played at the corners of his lips. “Why, Elinora Jane Browning. What on earth have you been doing with that fingertip?”
This was adorably cute with a very satisfying conclusion. There is also the added benefit of seeing most of the other Spindle Cove couples be cutesy with each other and an manly expedition between the husbands to escort Nora through the storm to her speaking engagement.
If you’ve read the rest of the Spindle Cove series then it is great fun to see them all again. If not then it is just a short romantic tale that will be missing a little magic as you don’t care about the plethora of side characters in it.
This does have all of Tessa Dare’s charming whit and lovable banter just pocket sized.
December 10, 2015
I am a big fan of Tessa Dare, and I usually can overlook anachronisms in her books, especially in this series, because there's so much else good stuff to focus on. But for some reason I had a really hard time doing so with this book. The phrase "screaming orgasms" was actually uttered by a male character as an off hand comment to a friend at one point and I almost set my Kindle aside. Also a major side plot was a husband forgetting to pick up sherry on his way home - really? I get that these novellas are meant to just be fun fluff in between the larger books, but it just didn't work for me this time.
December 25, 2021
✨“You had breasts. I had erections.”✨
Nora chose chaos by publishing that letter and I for one think that’s lovely of her. This was a perfect little amalgam of everything that I love about Spindle Cove. It was sexy, funny, a little surprising, and just so goddamn lovable. Also did someone say snowed in? Oh yes.
The premise was definitely unique and I was throwing side eyes the entire time. It had me intrigued and entertained. Childhood-friends-to-enemies-to-lovers unce unce unce unce (supposed to be a club beat with the image of a really early 2000s disc jockey just absolutely going for it) that’s what this trope does to these old bones.
This was my favorite of the Spindle Cove novellas and I really am a fan of the bite-sized nature of them. It’s like everything I want from a full novel but with less pulling taffy to see how far a scene can go. Also give me ALL the Colin cameos in the world I want to collect them like trophies.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
**Spoiler, but like it may convince you to read if you’ve been convinced this forth**
Mama LOVES a Virgin hero moment. I had an inkling and I didn’t want to get my hopes up. Call me a nut and roast me but godtdamn I find that really hot of him lol. The yearning, the pining, the angst—literal sex god status.
Nora chose chaos by publishing that letter and I for one think that’s lovely of her. This was a perfect little amalgam of everything that I love about Spindle Cove. It was sexy, funny, a little surprising, and just so goddamn lovable. Also did someone say snowed in? Oh yes.
The premise was definitely unique and I was throwing side eyes the entire time. It had me intrigued and entertained. Childhood-friends-to-enemies-to-lovers unce unce unce unce (supposed to be a club beat with the image of a really early 2000s disc jockey just absolutely going for it) that’s what this trope does to these old bones.
This was my favorite of the Spindle Cove novellas and I really am a fan of the bite-sized nature of them. It’s like everything I want from a full novel but with less pulling taffy to see how far a scene can go. Also give me ALL the Colin cameos in the world I want to collect them like trophies.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
**Spoiler, but like it may convince you to read if you’ve been convinced this forth**
Mama LOVES a Virgin hero moment. I had an inkling and I didn’t want to get my hopes up. Call me a nut and roast me but godtdamn I find that really hot of him lol. The yearning, the pining, the angst—literal sex god status.
November 12, 2017
This was sooo cute!! 💕 I love the stories from Spindle Cove. This is the story of an author on her way to give a speech about her pamphlet on empowering women. Meanwhile, the man she wrote about has turned up and she has to face him.
Excellent romance! 😊
Excellent romance! 😊
February 28, 2016
After reading the darkly compelling The Highwayman, I was in the mood for something light-hearted and fun and what better than Tessa Dare’s latest novella in her brilliant Spindle Cove series.
“Second chance at love” is one of my favourite tropes and when the estranged couple are forced to take shelter from a snow storm in an isolated cabin…even better. I know there will be lively dialogue, some soul-searching, and delicious sexy moments, all leading to a Happy Ever After. Add a rescue mission undertaken by all those heroes from the previous Spindle Cove books and how could I not enjoy this novella?
I like Nora, because instead of bottling up her negative feelings after Dash left, she puts pen to paper and has the courage to publish her pamphlet and become a successful author.
She’d come away with friendships, respect, a career of sorts— as much as gentlewomen were permitted to have careers. Women from all over England and beyond wrote to her, expressing their gratitude.
She has become her own woman…intelligent, strong and confident.
I admit that I didn’t have a very good opinion of Dash at first. His initial remarks seem particularly cruel and hurtful but it soon becomes apparent that this may well be a front, because you see his genuine care and concern for Nora when their coach skids off the road.
His fingers brushed a lock of loosened hair from her brow, and an idiotic frisson of pleasure chased through her. He’d never touched her so tenderly. No man had.
I like how the close proximity forces them, as adults, to confront their pasts and their feelings for each other. Dash is right when he says they were both young and needed time to become “their best and bravest selves”. He was a callow, immature youth and Nora ‘s dreams of marriage, children and a life spent with Dash were just girlish fantasies. It’s clear that, without those years apart, Nora would never have become an author and Dash, a cartographer.
There is plenty of sexual tension and a delicious sense of anticipation. I love this exchange between them.
“I don’t care how many lovers you’ve taken, nor how experienced they were.” She held up her index finger. “I have more passion in one fingertip than they have in their whole bodies.”
He propped an elbow on the table. A smile played at the corners of his lips. “Why, Elinora Jane Browning. What on earth have you been doing with that fingertip?”
“Wouldn’t you like to know.”
An added bonus is we get to see Griff, Colin, Bram and Thorne, the heroes from the previous books. Only they could play cards for fossils, and there is fun and laughter as they set off to rescue the stranded Miss Browning. When they mistake a smugglers’ den for a wayside inn, only Colin could come up with such lines as…
Colin cleared his throat and addressed the men. “Say, is this not the Ceylonese Mission Society meeting? I’m afraid we’ve taken a wrong turn, brothers. So sorry to trouble you. We’ll just be on our w—”
Don’t you just adore Colin?
MY VERDICT: This novella is a charming addition to the Spindle Cove series and I’m already anticipating my next visit there for Charlotte Highwood’s story, DO YOU WANT TO START A SCANDAL, to be published on 27th September.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
Spindle Cove series (click on cover for more details):
- to be released on 27th September
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
“Second chance at love” is one of my favourite tropes and when the estranged couple are forced to take shelter from a snow storm in an isolated cabin…even better. I know there will be lively dialogue, some soul-searching, and delicious sexy moments, all leading to a Happy Ever After. Add a rescue mission undertaken by all those heroes from the previous Spindle Cove books and how could I not enjoy this novella?
I like Nora, because instead of bottling up her negative feelings after Dash left, she puts pen to paper and has the courage to publish her pamphlet and become a successful author.
She’d come away with friendships, respect, a career of sorts— as much as gentlewomen were permitted to have careers. Women from all over England and beyond wrote to her, expressing their gratitude.
She has become her own woman…intelligent, strong and confident.
I admit that I didn’t have a very good opinion of Dash at first. His initial remarks seem particularly cruel and hurtful but it soon becomes apparent that this may well be a front, because you see his genuine care and concern for Nora when their coach skids off the road.
His fingers brushed a lock of loosened hair from her brow, and an idiotic frisson of pleasure chased through her. He’d never touched her so tenderly. No man had.
I like how the close proximity forces them, as adults, to confront their pasts and their feelings for each other. Dash is right when he says they were both young and needed time to become “their best and bravest selves”. He was a callow, immature youth and Nora ‘s dreams of marriage, children and a life spent with Dash were just girlish fantasies. It’s clear that, without those years apart, Nora would never have become an author and Dash, a cartographer.
There is plenty of sexual tension and a delicious sense of anticipation. I love this exchange between them.
“I don’t care how many lovers you’ve taken, nor how experienced they were.” She held up her index finger. “I have more passion in one fingertip than they have in their whole bodies.”
He propped an elbow on the table. A smile played at the corners of his lips. “Why, Elinora Jane Browning. What on earth have you been doing with that fingertip?”
“Wouldn’t you like to know.”
An added bonus is we get to see Griff, Colin, Bram and Thorne, the heroes from the previous books. Only they could play cards for fossils, and there is fun and laughter as they set off to rescue the stranded Miss Browning. When they mistake a smugglers’ den for a wayside inn, only Colin could come up with such lines as…
Colin cleared his throat and addressed the men. “Say, is this not the Ceylonese Mission Society meeting? I’m afraid we’ve taken a wrong turn, brothers. So sorry to trouble you. We’ll just be on our w—”
Don’t you just adore Colin?
MY VERDICT: This novella is a charming addition to the Spindle Cove series and I’m already anticipating my next visit there for Charlotte Highwood’s story, DO YOU WANT TO START A SCANDAL, to be published on 27th September.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
Spindle Cove series (click on cover for more details):
- to be released on 27th SeptemberThis review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
December 12, 2015
Lord Dashwood Missed Out by Tessa Dare is a 2015 Avon publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
I have enjoyed most everything I’ve read by this author, but I haven’t been able to read as many of her books as I would like, but when I saw this was a novella length story, I was sure I could squeeze it into my review schedule. I’m so glad I did!
Years ago, Elinora Browning was humiliated by Lord Dashwood, leaving her frustrated, angry and heartbroken. She never recovered, unfortunately, and began to write about her feelings. She never dreamed her essay, entitled “Lord Ashwood Missed Out”, (A slight variation on the name, but everyone knew to whom she referred), would actually be published and become wildly popular among other women, so much so, she is invited to speaking engagements.
On her way to one of these gatherings, she finds herself stuck on a coach ride with none other than Lord Dashwood himself!! Has he read her pamphlet by chance?
This story has a huge heart and lots of charm, a few laugh out loud moments, and is very romantic. I loved how Dash helps Elinora realize she can be a strong, independent woman, and still have a marriage and children, and continue setting a positive example for her readers.
Naturally, once I started reading this story, I wished it could have been longer and fleshed out more, because it was so much fun! 4 stars
I have enjoyed most everything I’ve read by this author, but I haven’t been able to read as many of her books as I would like, but when I saw this was a novella length story, I was sure I could squeeze it into my review schedule. I’m so glad I did!
Years ago, Elinora Browning was humiliated by Lord Dashwood, leaving her frustrated, angry and heartbroken. She never recovered, unfortunately, and began to write about her feelings. She never dreamed her essay, entitled “Lord Ashwood Missed Out”, (A slight variation on the name, but everyone knew to whom she referred), would actually be published and become wildly popular among other women, so much so, she is invited to speaking engagements.
On her way to one of these gatherings, she finds herself stuck on a coach ride with none other than Lord Dashwood himself!! Has he read her pamphlet by chance?
This story has a huge heart and lots of charm, a few laugh out loud moments, and is very romantic. I loved how Dash helps Elinora realize she can be a strong, independent woman, and still have a marriage and children, and continue setting a positive example for her readers.
Naturally, once I started reading this story, I wished it could have been longer and fleshed out more, because it was so much fun! 4 stars
June 21, 2020
1.) A Night To Surrender ★★★★
*.) Once Upon A Winter's Eve ★★★
2.) A Week To Be Wicked ★★★★
3.) A Lady By Midnight ★★★★
*.) Beauty and the Blacksmith ★★★★
4.) Any Duchess Will Do ★★★★
*.) Lord Dashwood Missed Out ★★★.5
5.) Do You Want to Start A Scandal? ★★★★.5
--------------------------------------------------
“As the new day dawns, and my inkwell runs dry, I hereby make a vow. Not a vow to the man I once hoped to marry, but a promise to myself. From this morning forward, I will never shed another tear for him. There is no need. Because everything Lord Dashwood rejected when he so callously walked away — is mine to claim. Mine to use. My wit, my strength, and most of all — my heart. I will not put any of these on the shelf.”
[trigger warnings are listed at the bottom of this review and may contain spoilers]
★★★.5
Not my favourite Tessa Dare novella I've read, but it was still so much fun! I loved the female main character (she's an author! we love to see it!), but wasn't a huge fan of the love interest, but other than that, i love the friendship and humour between the other husbands in this series and it was a fun, quick read!
trigger warnings: death of a family member (in the past), car (carriage??) accident.
*.) Once Upon A Winter's Eve ★★★
2.) A Week To Be Wicked ★★★★
3.) A Lady By Midnight ★★★★
*.) Beauty and the Blacksmith ★★★★
4.) Any Duchess Will Do ★★★★
*.) Lord Dashwood Missed Out ★★★.5
5.) Do You Want to Start A Scandal? ★★★★.5
--------------------------------------------------
“As the new day dawns, and my inkwell runs dry, I hereby make a vow. Not a vow to the man I once hoped to marry, but a promise to myself. From this morning forward, I will never shed another tear for him. There is no need. Because everything Lord Dashwood rejected when he so callously walked away — is mine to claim. Mine to use. My wit, my strength, and most of all — my heart. I will not put any of these on the shelf.”
[trigger warnings are listed at the bottom of this review and may contain spoilers]
★★★.5
Not my favourite Tessa Dare novella I've read, but it was still so much fun! I loved the female main character (she's an author! we love to see it!), but wasn't a huge fan of the love interest, but other than that, i love the friendship and humour between the other husbands in this series and it was a fun, quick read!
trigger warnings: death of a family member (in the past), car (carriage??) accident.
May 4, 2016
Although Spindle Cove series is usually entertaining, Lord Dashwood Missed Out was a miss for me. It could be the length of the story; I couldn't get into it and the people I was supposed to root for fell flat. I simply didn't care for them.
This is one of those series where you can forgive all kinds of nitpicks because of the humour (the first book in the series has the most hilarious beginning), but here it was completely missing.
Next, because their story didn't have enough juice, we had those chapters featuring everyone else (and their mother) from the series. It was a weird attempt to introduce humour into the mix.
Overall, it is not bad bad.
This is one of those series where you can forgive all kinds of nitpicks because of the humour (the first book in the series has the most hilarious beginning), but here it was completely missing.
Next, because their story didn't have enough juice, we had those chapters featuring everyone else (and their mother) from the series. It was a weird attempt to introduce humour into the mix.
Overall, it is not bad bad.
December 26, 2018
Another male virgin, woohoo! Suddenly, I;ve been reading so many books in the past few days about male virgins! It never gets dull. I do love a man who can control himself and sweet enough to wait for the right woman :) If only they existed in real life!!
That all said, George and Elianora were a fine pair. Always meant to be together, and I'm happy with the way they found their way back to each other in the end.
I also love the childhood true love type of story. Makes me happy :)
That all said, George and Elianora were a fine pair. Always meant to be together, and I'm happy with the way they found their way back to each other in the end.
I also love the childhood true love type of story. Makes me happy :)
November 25, 2023
I can always rely on Tessa Dare to give me historical romance with a good female lead, and Nora is just that. Forced into taking a carriage ride with an old childhood friend she may have written a scathing pamphlet about, the pair are diverted by a snowstorm and end up confronting old feelings for each other. This had just the right amount of smut and humour to keep me entertained, and for s novella I thought the characters were well developed. The inclusion of some old favourites from Spindle Cove certainly helped too. As with most novellas I would have liked this to have been a bit longer to build up the tension, however it was pretty good for what it was.
February 7, 2021
I recently read 5 books by Tessa Dare in less than a week and to be honest, the majority of my review for each of them would say the same :) so what I will do is write this beginning where I talk about all the reasons why I love her stories and copy it for each of them and then add near the end a few sentences about each book in their review :) first of all, Tessa Dare is one of my all time favourite authors :) her writing style works perfectly for me :) she writes historical romances that feel modern… we have that old setting, but her characters and storylines definitely feel a lot more modern, which may be too unrealistic or historically inaccurate for some people, but I love it ;) there’s always witty banter, great humor and swoonworthy romances and her stories always leave me with the biggest smile on my face :) I highly recommend you guys to check out her work, cause if you don’t know it yet, you are seriously missing out :)
another novella, so I can’t say more than the synopsis describes, but again, it was a lot of fun :) the story itself was very cute but I especially liked little scenes with the characters we already know and love from the rest of Spindle Cove series :) a lovely little gem that I can reread if I need a book to make me smile and don’t have a lot of time on my hands :)
XOXO
A
another novella, so I can’t say more than the synopsis describes, but again, it was a lot of fun :) the story itself was very cute but I especially liked little scenes with the characters we already know and love from the rest of Spindle Cove series :) a lovely little gem that I can reread if I need a book to make me smile and don’t have a lot of time on my hands :)
XOXO
A
December 24, 2015
”Because, my darling Nora . . . no matter where I traveled, you were always what was missing.”
This was a sweet novella, and had the typical Tessa Dare humor.
I really liked Elinora, even though I was frustrated with her at times with the way she swooned over George even when he acted like a real jerk.
I had a difficult time with my feelings regarding George. At first I didn’t believe him to be attracted to Elinora, especially with the way he kept baiting her, and then when Elinora found out about all his lies, I really couldn’t see myself liking him at all. But then when he confronted her afterwards, and all the things he said, which was so very romantic, and in total opposite of how he acted in the beginning, he was slightly redeemed in my eyes. For me the way he treated Elinora ¾ of the book was just too much in contrast to what he was really feeling, and just confused the hell out of me.
But I loved the concept of this book. What woman hasn’t fantasized about that one guy, the guy you were so smitten with, but who just wouldn’t even give you the time of day. What if he realised what he was missing out on…? What then?
May 13, 2022
This should be called Lord Dashwood didn’t redeem himself. A cute little novella with a strong modern thinking heroine, forced proximity with her childhood neighbour and crush. Overall I liked this well enough and it was a quick easy read but the hero was underwhelming. Throughout the story it is revealed to us what he did to her about five years earlier and I have to say, it was really callous and almost unforgivable. There was no reason to do what he did and no real explanation is given or good grovel. Overall the hero and the ending were less than desired here. I think this author has much better stuff out there than this. So not bad but could’ve been much better.
June 2, 2021
This was cute.
I love Tessa Dare, and I have been saving these short reads for when I need a pick me up.
As always, they are much too short, but I really enjoyed it so much.
Childhood friends get a second chance at romance and a forced proximity in a hut overnight. Yes please.
4/5 stars for me.
I love Tessa Dare, and I have been saving these short reads for when I need a pick me up.
As always, they are much too short, but I really enjoyed it so much.
Childhood friends get a second chance at romance and a forced proximity in a hut overnight. Yes please.
4/5 stars for me.
December 7, 2021
Elinora (Nora) and George. I loved the banter between them, love seeing some of the regulars from Spindle Cove (especially Charlotte and her embarrassing mom), and Elinora's intense love for George. (I wish she would have made him grovel more. I do adore a good grovel.) However, George, while I appreciate him saving having sex until he is ready to court Elinora (truth be told if he had been horn dogging around I would have rated this lower. This novella needed him to choose to save this moment for Nora because all his other actions stepped on Nora. He gave her mixed signals, humiliates her in public, he leaves to further his career and recover from the death of her brother. Even when we discover he came back to court her that really irked me that he expected her to be the one to say I love you first, the one to call him back and not walk away, and to have sex with her without saying I love you back (Elinora gave in too easily. Make him grovel--Elinora--grovel.) Having said that I really enjoyed this just wanted more groveling. HA!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2021
I didn’t really connect or truly liked either of the MC’s.
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