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Seasons of Love #3
A Christmas Surprise
Every year for thirty years Lord Robert, the Viscount of Marchwood, throws a Christmas Ball.
But this year the Marchwood Christmas Ball holds extra importance.
His daughter, Lady Audrey, has just turned eighteen, and it is time for her to be introduced into society.
It is Audrey’s first, best, and potentially only chance of securing a husband.
Especially seeing as there are rumours that the Marchwood money is running dry.
But headstrong Lady Audrey is not sure she wants a husband.
Ever since her mother died she has been left to her own devices.
Though she is very close to her father, it was often the servants she turned to for companionship, particularly Thomas, who, five years older than her, was always the person she depended on for conversation.
She is not ready to leave everything she knows, and the thought of abandoning her father breaks her heart.
She is determined that only someone truly special will take her away from her home.
But with the ball centred around a masquerade theme, everyone is in disguise.
And a handsome stranger threatens to steal Audrey’s heart.
Could he hold the key to her heart?
And when she unmasks him will it be a good, or bad, Christmas Surprise?
‘A Christmas Surprise’ is a festive regency romance novella.
Praise for Emily Murdoch
'An enthralling saga.' - Robert Foster, best-selling author of 'The Lunar Code'.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and novelist. She lives in York. She is also the author of ‘Conquests’, ‘Love Letter’, ‘Captives’ and ‘Conquered Hearts: A Historical Romance Omnibus’.
Endeavour Press is the UK's leading independent digital publisher. For more information on our titles please sign up to our newsletter at www.endeavourpress.com. Each week you will receive updates on free and discounted ebooks. Follow us on Twitter: @EndeavourPress and on Facebook via http://on.fb.me/1HweQV7. We are always interested in hearing from our readers. Endeavour Press believes that the future is now.
But this year the Marchwood Christmas Ball holds extra importance.
His daughter, Lady Audrey, has just turned eighteen, and it is time for her to be introduced into society.
It is Audrey’s first, best, and potentially only chance of securing a husband.
Especially seeing as there are rumours that the Marchwood money is running dry.
But headstrong Lady Audrey is not sure she wants a husband.
Ever since her mother died she has been left to her own devices.
Though she is very close to her father, it was often the servants she turned to for companionship, particularly Thomas, who, five years older than her, was always the person she depended on for conversation.
She is not ready to leave everything she knows, and the thought of abandoning her father breaks her heart.
She is determined that only someone truly special will take her away from her home.
But with the ball centred around a masquerade theme, everyone is in disguise.
And a handsome stranger threatens to steal Audrey’s heart.
Could he hold the key to her heart?
And when she unmasks him will it be a good, or bad, Christmas Surprise?
‘A Christmas Surprise’ is a festive regency romance novella.
Praise for Emily Murdoch
'An enthralling saga.' - Robert Foster, best-selling author of 'The Lunar Code'.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and novelist. She lives in York. She is also the author of ‘Conquests’, ‘Love Letter’, ‘Captives’ and ‘Conquered Hearts: A Historical Romance Omnibus’.
Endeavour Press is the UK's leading independent digital publisher. For more information on our titles please sign up to our newsletter at www.endeavourpress.com. Each week you will receive updates on free and discounted ebooks. Follow us on Twitter: @EndeavourPress and on Facebook via http://on.fb.me/1HweQV7. We are always interested in hearing from our readers. Endeavour Press believes that the future is now.
94 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2015
42 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Emily E.K. Murdoch
177 books279 followersEmily E.K. Murdoch is also known as Emily Murdoch.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
October 22, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lady Audrey is eighteen and about to have her coming out Christmas Ball. With rumors swirling that her father is having some financial trouble, she hopes to meet her future husband on the same night. A late decision to make the Ball a mask sets up a night full of intrigue and magic. Thomas has been the valet to Audrey's father for the last five years and developed a close relationship with Audrey. With her turning eighteen and beginning the search for a husband, he feels the urgency to examine his feelings. The Christmas Ball will be a night neither will forget.
At fewer than one hundred pages, A Christmas Surprise is a short novella that will require you to be very forgiving with its regency period setting. I was curious how the daughter of a viscount would/could be set-up with her father's valet, the story for the most part decided to not address it and went with "luv". Audrey's father had no objections as Thomas must really love Audrey because he still wanted to marry her even when he thought she was poor. Having characters with these roles was an intriguing idea and to have the author flake out on providing the meat of this situation was disappointing.
Audrey and her father were the most fleshed out characters with Audrey coming off a little flighty. Thomas was disappointingly missing; he was a pencil sketch of a character. There is talk of how Thomas and Audrey grew close because of their conversations but we are never shown any of them. I was left bereft of any reasoning as to why these two cared for one another.
The language used by the characters felt off but the overall writing flowed well, you'd have no problem finishing this in an hour. I was looking for a shorter story with a holiday feel, this was both but it also read more as a pitch for a story, rather than an actual story. I needed more depth of character from Thomas and for him and Audrey to have more interactions and evidence of feelings between them.
Lady Audrey is eighteen and about to have her coming out Christmas Ball. With rumors swirling that her father is having some financial trouble, she hopes to meet her future husband on the same night. A late decision to make the Ball a mask sets up a night full of intrigue and magic. Thomas has been the valet to Audrey's father for the last five years and developed a close relationship with Audrey. With her turning eighteen and beginning the search for a husband, he feels the urgency to examine his feelings. The Christmas Ball will be a night neither will forget.
At fewer than one hundred pages, A Christmas Surprise is a short novella that will require you to be very forgiving with its regency period setting. I was curious how the daughter of a viscount would/could be set-up with her father's valet, the story for the most part decided to not address it and went with "luv". Audrey's father had no objections as Thomas must really love Audrey because he still wanted to marry her even when he thought she was poor. Having characters with these roles was an intriguing idea and to have the author flake out on providing the meat of this situation was disappointing.
Audrey and her father were the most fleshed out characters with Audrey coming off a little flighty. Thomas was disappointingly missing; he was a pencil sketch of a character. There is talk of how Thomas and Audrey grew close because of their conversations but we are never shown any of them. I was left bereft of any reasoning as to why these two cared for one another.
The language used by the characters felt off but the overall writing flowed well, you'd have no problem finishing this in an hour. I was looking for a shorter story with a holiday feel, this was both but it also read more as a pitch for a story, rather than an actual story. I needed more depth of character from Thomas and for him and Audrey to have more interactions and evidence of feelings between them.
April 22, 2022
I received a free Audible audio-book (first ever) in exchange for an honest review. This was also my first book by Emily E.K. Murdoch. I think I must have gotten onto her email list through another author. Anyway, I digress. She was giving away a limited number of codes for audio-books. I just had to say whether I prefer sweet or steamy as she writes both. This was difficult as I enjoy sweet and steamy but decided I was in the mood for sweet. This was the sweet book selected for me by the author, and I am so glad. I started listening without reading the summary or any reviews.
It is narrated by Virginia Ferguson. I don't think I had heard her before, but she was good. More importantly, the story was great. I listened all in one night. That is rare even for a novella because I usually prefer reading to listening when I can. In this case, I couldn't stop to pick anything else up.
This was a sweet Christmas novella about Lady Audrey and the Christmas ball to find her a husband. She was the only daughter to Lord Robert, the Viscount of Marchwood, who was a widower. The father daughter relationship was well done. I loved the scenes between these two.
Her romantic interest was a masked stranger at her Christmas ball. He turnec out to be her father's valet. There was very little angst, and the HEA may have been too easy for some. I thought it was perfect! I am sure I will listen again closer to Christmas. I also plan to read more by the author - thinking about Never the Bride but that series has 12 books!
It is narrated by Virginia Ferguson. I don't think I had heard her before, but she was good. More importantly, the story was great. I listened all in one night. That is rare even for a novella because I usually prefer reading to listening when I can. In this case, I couldn't stop to pick anything else up.
This was a sweet Christmas novella about Lady Audrey and the Christmas ball to find her a husband. She was the only daughter to Lord Robert, the Viscount of Marchwood, who was a widower. The father daughter relationship was well done. I loved the scenes between these two.
Her romantic interest was a masked stranger at her Christmas ball. He turnec out to be her father's valet. There was very little angst, and the HEA may have been too easy for some. I thought it was perfect! I am sure I will listen again closer to Christmas. I also plan to read more by the author - thinking about Never the Bride but that series has 12 books!
September 17, 2017
“A Christmas Surprise” is the right name for this story because there is not one, but two surprises found in it. For thirty years the Viscount of Marchwood has held a Christmas ball at his home in London. There are rumors he is in financial trouble. Could that be the reason he has rented Scotchmore Castle in Scotland? This ball is especially special because it will formally introduce his daughter, Lady Audrey, into society. Could she possibly meet and fall in love with someone at the ball? When a tall, dark and handsome man asks her to dance, she doesn’t recognize him (it’s a masked ball), but he seems familiar, and he affects her in strange ways. She finds the man she loves, which is one of the surprises in the story. You’ll have to discover the other surprise yourself. You meet her good friends, Joy and Harmony Fitzroy and their cousin Jemima Fitzroy. I really liked them and would love to see each one get her own story. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and would recommend it to everyone. I received a complimentary review copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 25, 2016
I would classify A Christmas Surprise as a 'Traditional Regency Romance' as it concentrates more on the romantic plot than on the Regency plot. And I would recommend it as a quick read for regular readers of Regency genres and as a very good introduction for those who are new to the genre.
*Read my detailed review on my blog here: An Understated Regency Christmas
*Read my detailed review on my blog here: An Understated Regency Christmas
September 25, 2018
Yes, I am aware that we are still 3 months away from Christmas, but I always start enjoying Christmas around this time! I’ve already had my first cup of hot chocolate for the season, binge listening to Michael Bublé’s holiday music, and now, I’ve read my first Christmas book of the year! *no judgey*
As for A Christmas Surprise in particular, it was cute. It was very short, I think I finished it in 45 minutes to an hour, and because of that, the story is very rushed. I didn't have a lot of time to get to know Audrey or Thomas, and before I really knew what was happening, the book ended with an (extremely predictable) "happily ever after". Also, the romance was a little odd to me. At the beginning of the week (the book takes place over the course of a week), Audrey didn't even notice Thomas but by the end of the week, she goes to him with her *very personal* problem, regarding the stranger, and seeks out his council, thus blossoming into our predictable ending. The romance was just, nonexistent and then existing in all its passion and desire at once.
I did love the description of the masquerade ball however, and would have loved for that scene to have lasted so much longer than it did. It captured the spirit of Christmas that I love so much and was described so elegantly. I saw it just as if I had been watching it play before my eyes in a movie. Murdoch most definitely has a way with words.
The book is clean, with only a couple semi-passionate kisses. Though there is a scene in which a man tries to force himself on a woman, though the details are kept short. There is no cursing either.
So, overall, I give A Christmas Surprise 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it if you're looking for a quick dose of Christmas!
I received this book from the author for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review.
As for A Christmas Surprise in particular, it was cute. It was very short, I think I finished it in 45 minutes to an hour, and because of that, the story is very rushed. I didn't have a lot of time to get to know Audrey or Thomas, and before I really knew what was happening, the book ended with an (extremely predictable) "happily ever after". Also, the romance was a little odd to me. At the beginning of the week (the book takes place over the course of a week), Audrey didn't even notice Thomas but by the end of the week, she goes to him with her *very personal* problem, regarding the stranger, and seeks out his council, thus blossoming into our predictable ending. The romance was just, nonexistent and then existing in all its passion and desire at once.
I did love the description of the masquerade ball however, and would have loved for that scene to have lasted so much longer than it did. It captured the spirit of Christmas that I love so much and was described so elegantly. I saw it just as if I had been watching it play before my eyes in a movie. Murdoch most definitely has a way with words.
The book is clean, with only a couple semi-passionate kisses. Though there is a scene in which a man tries to force himself on a woman, though the details are kept short. There is no cursing either.
So, overall, I give A Christmas Surprise 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it if you're looking for a quick dose of Christmas!
I received this book from the author for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are entirely my own.
This is a LiteratureApproved.com Review.
December 12, 2016
Review now up on the blog as part of the blog tour: http://www.thewritinggreyhound.co.uk/...
The novella is a quick, fun and light-hearted festive read. It's the perfect accompaniment to a warm fire, a hot cup of tea and these long, dark winter nights. If you need some help getting into the Christmas spirit, then this is the book for you!
The story itself is very simple. Lady Audrey must find a husband, and her father's annual Christmas ball is the perfect place for her to do so. The plot works well in this setting as it requires such little setup, so we can pretty much get straight into the story itself. Of course, it's rather predictable and the happily ever after ending didn't come as a surprise at all, but you don't read books like this to challenge yourself; you read them out of enjoyment and to relax.
I found the characters to be a bit of a mixed bag. Lady Audrey did get on my nerves a little at times. She is so stubborn and headstrong that she refuses to listen to anyone else (including her father) and after a while, her personality began to grate. I did feel as though we didn't really get to know Thomas very well, too, especially as he is such an important character. The little narration we had from him seemed fragmented and I didn't feel as though he came across in a very good light. After all, he was at points basically spying on a young girl more than 10 years his junior as she was being dressed... does that not seem a little off to anyone else?
Despite that, the storyline was fun. The whole concept of the masked ball was great as it allowed for so many dramatic possibilities, especially considering the usual rigidity of upper-class attitudes at this time. I felt that the story fit very well into the Regency period, and from the level of detail, it's clear that the author knows her stuff. The only thing I would say, however, is that I wasn't entirely convinced by the fact that no-one seemed fazed by Thomas and Audrey's relationship. A high-society lady marrying her father's valet? That's hardly a match that would have been allowed at that time, surely. I just didn't buy into Lord Marchwood's reaction to the news at all. That was the one part of the story that sadly just didn't feel authentic or realistic to me.
Regardless of that, the story as a whole is a great, quick read.
The novella is a quick, fun and light-hearted festive read. It's the perfect accompaniment to a warm fire, a hot cup of tea and these long, dark winter nights. If you need some help getting into the Christmas spirit, then this is the book for you!
The story itself is very simple. Lady Audrey must find a husband, and her father's annual Christmas ball is the perfect place for her to do so. The plot works well in this setting as it requires such little setup, so we can pretty much get straight into the story itself. Of course, it's rather predictable and the happily ever after ending didn't come as a surprise at all, but you don't read books like this to challenge yourself; you read them out of enjoyment and to relax.
I found the characters to be a bit of a mixed bag. Lady Audrey did get on my nerves a little at times. She is so stubborn and headstrong that she refuses to listen to anyone else (including her father) and after a while, her personality began to grate. I did feel as though we didn't really get to know Thomas very well, too, especially as he is such an important character. The little narration we had from him seemed fragmented and I didn't feel as though he came across in a very good light. After all, he was at points basically spying on a young girl more than 10 years his junior as she was being dressed... does that not seem a little off to anyone else?
Despite that, the storyline was fun. The whole concept of the masked ball was great as it allowed for so many dramatic possibilities, especially considering the usual rigidity of upper-class attitudes at this time. I felt that the story fit very well into the Regency period, and from the level of detail, it's clear that the author knows her stuff. The only thing I would say, however, is that I wasn't entirely convinced by the fact that no-one seemed fazed by Thomas and Audrey's relationship. A high-society lady marrying her father's valet? That's hardly a match that would have been allowed at that time, surely. I just didn't buy into Lord Marchwood's reaction to the news at all. That was the one part of the story that sadly just didn't feel authentic or realistic to me.
Regardless of that, the story as a whole is a great, quick read.
June 6, 2019
Delightful regency treat!!
Short but well formed tale of love, longing and happy ever after in this sweet, charmingly light-hearted story with an element of Cindrella in a role reversal twist.
Thomas is loyal, protective and has been head over heels in love with Audrey since he became her father's valet five years ago and for this very reason is terrified to confess his feelings through fear of rejection. However, with Audrey's come out (masked) ball fast approaching and rumours circulating her father is having money problems this may be his only chance to confess his true feelings before she could be forced to marry. The masked ball is an ideal protective cloak for Thomas to hopefully open Audrey's eyes and see past his valet facade to the handsomely striking (completely besotted) man beneath.
An intriguing and fun premise for a story that is well written and keeps you invested until the end. A regency delight that you can indulge in one sitting but you'll rather wish was longer!!
(Intrigued by the fates of the Fitzroy girls, especially Jemima, a definite story/mini series just screaming to be told - I really hope they get their chance for a happy ever after too!)
Short but well formed tale of love, longing and happy ever after in this sweet, charmingly light-hearted story with an element of Cindrella in a role reversal twist.
Thomas is loyal, protective and has been head over heels in love with Audrey since he became her father's valet five years ago and for this very reason is terrified to confess his feelings through fear of rejection. However, with Audrey's come out (masked) ball fast approaching and rumours circulating her father is having money problems this may be his only chance to confess his true feelings before she could be forced to marry. The masked ball is an ideal protective cloak for Thomas to hopefully open Audrey's eyes and see past his valet facade to the handsomely striking (completely besotted) man beneath.
An intriguing and fun premise for a story that is well written and keeps you invested until the end. A regency delight that you can indulge in one sitting but you'll rather wish was longer!!
(Intrigued by the fates of the Fitzroy girls, especially Jemima, a definite story/mini series just screaming to be told - I really hope they get their chance for a happy ever after too!)
October 10, 2015
Regency romances take us back to a time and place where rigid morals and social expectations were stronger than they are now. So much was different and yet people must have had the same wants and needs and feelings and wishes for their futures. This novella tells the story of Audrey’s coming out ball – a masked Christmas ball. She meets a stranger that stirs her blood but he leaves before she even catches his name. Will she see him again? Will society’s expectations prevent her from following her heart? Or, will there be a happily ever after for Audrey.
I have to say that I look at this as a fairy tale rather than a historical novel…probably due to do with my understanding of what the Regency era was like. That said…this was a sweet story that will provide a comforting comfortable afternoon read to get you in the Christmas spirit. For those of you who would like to know – it is not a steamy story and thus appropriate for teens as well as adults.
Thank you to NetGalley and Endeavour Press for the copy of this story to read and review.
3.5 Stars
I have to say that I look at this as a fairy tale rather than a historical novel…probably due to do with my understanding of what the Regency era was like. That said…this was a sweet story that will provide a comforting comfortable afternoon read to get you in the Christmas spirit. For those of you who would like to know – it is not a steamy story and thus appropriate for teens as well as adults.
Thank you to NetGalley and Endeavour Press for the copy of this story to read and review.
3.5 Stars
August 21, 2016
In this Regency romance Lord Robert, the Viscount of Marchwood, is throwing his annual Christmas Ball in the Highlands of Scotland even though his financial position is a poor one. His daugher the Lady Audrey, who's coming out ball this is decides it will be a masked ball. This leads to her falling for a stranger. Can the discovery of who he is bring them together or will they be parted for ever.
A nice enjoyable novella, though not really long enough to give a depth to all the characters.
A NetGalley Book
A nice enjoyable novella, though not really long enough to give a depth to all the characters.
A NetGalley Book
December 23, 2016
3.5 actual rating
It was surprisingly sweet in all it's shortness. I had some issues with the characters... Especially Thomas, I would have liked to see more of him.
It was surprisingly sweet in all it's shortness. I had some issues with the characters... Especially Thomas, I would have liked to see more of him.
December 14, 2019
This is an enjoyable Regency romance, set at Christmastime. Lady Audrey Marchwood is 18 years old and it's time for her to be wed. However, she isn't interested in a husband. She doesn't really have a choice in the matter since it seems that the Marchwood money is running out.
Her father's valet, Thomas, hates the idea that another man will wed Lady Audrey. But, as a servant, he doesn't have a chance with her. Or, does he?
Lady Audrey decides to liven things up at the annual Christmas Ball and insists that they hold a masquerade ball just like the one her Mother held so many years ago.
If you enjoy a sweet Regency romance, this is a quick read/listen. It has everything that the Regency fan loves: high fashion, high society, at least one creepy suitor, and a lot of misunderstandings. And, of course, a happily ever after ending, with the main character finding the love of her life.
The narrator, Virginia Ferguson, does a great job and adds a lot to the listener's enjoyment of the book. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more books by Emily Murdoch. I was given the chance to listen to the audiobook version of this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
Her father's valet, Thomas, hates the idea that another man will wed Lady Audrey. But, as a servant, he doesn't have a chance with her. Or, does he?
Lady Audrey decides to liven things up at the annual Christmas Ball and insists that they hold a masquerade ball just like the one her Mother held so many years ago.
If you enjoy a sweet Regency romance, this is a quick read/listen. It has everything that the Regency fan loves: high fashion, high society, at least one creepy suitor, and a lot of misunderstandings. And, of course, a happily ever after ending, with the main character finding the love of her life.
The narrator, Virginia Ferguson, does a great job and adds a lot to the listener's enjoyment of the book. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more books by Emily Murdoch. I was given the chance to listen to the audiobook version of this book by the author/narrator/publisher and chose to review it.
March 15, 2025
I'm sorry, I just couldn't enjoy this one, resorting to skimming to get to the end. It was just VERY boring. Apparently Audrey doesn't know what to say except "stuff and nonsense" repeatedly - it was just irritating. By chapter 5, NOTHING has really happened yet, except she's talked to the staff, argued with her father, got fitted for a dress and Thomas - the valet and apparent love interest, has watched her a few times.
Then in Chapter 5 we finally get to the ball - and I understand setting the scene but there's just so much minute detail and superficial dialogue and it's not until the end of that chapter that she finally speaks to him.
For such a short story it just takes way too much time to start getting to the point (6 chapters out of 10): any kind of romance.
But the whole idea of this story is kind of silly. She doesn't recognize him at all? She's known him for 5 years. She's dragged out of the ballroom past friends and NO ONE says or does anything? Her rescuer immediately accuses her of wanting the attention instead of asking if she's ok?
Also, in the Seasons of Love anthology - this story is mistakenly title as A Michaelmas Wager, which was VERY confusing at first as the characters obviously didn't match the description of that story.
Then in Chapter 5 we finally get to the ball - and I understand setting the scene but there's just so much minute detail and superficial dialogue and it's not until the end of that chapter that she finally speaks to him.
For such a short story it just takes way too much time to start getting to the point (6 chapters out of 10): any kind of romance.
But the whole idea of this story is kind of silly. She doesn't recognize him at all? She's known him for 5 years. She's dragged out of the ballroom past friends and NO ONE says or does anything? Her rescuer immediately accuses her of wanting the attention instead of asking if she's ok?
Also, in the Seasons of Love anthology - this story is mistakenly title as A Michaelmas Wager, which was VERY confusing at first as the characters obviously didn't match the description of that story.
January 29, 2020
I haven't read many of Emily's books, but those I have read I liked very much. This one included. Technically I did not read this, I listened to the recording on Audible. I enjoyed the narrator's rendition of the story and would love to hear her read another of Emily's books someday.
Lady Audrey is eighteen and is preparing for her coming out party at the Christmas party her family always throws each Christmas. Hoping to catch an appropriate man for marriage is difficult when the party is actually a Masquerade Ball. How is she ever going to find the right man under these circumstances?
Enter, a stranger who takes her breath away. They manage to spend a little time together getting to know one another and it appears they are becoming smitten with each other. Who is this stranger and will he win the hand of the fair Lady Audrey or will someone else step in and steal her heart?
If you like clean, historical romances you are sure to love this story. Grab you a copy and dig in. Enjoy!
I was gifted an Audible code by Emily Murdoch without any requirements for a review. I voluntarily provide this review for others to learn of this book and maybe pick up their own copy to read.
Lady Audrey is eighteen and is preparing for her coming out party at the Christmas party her family always throws each Christmas. Hoping to catch an appropriate man for marriage is difficult when the party is actually a Masquerade Ball. How is she ever going to find the right man under these circumstances?
Enter, a stranger who takes her breath away. They manage to spend a little time together getting to know one another and it appears they are becoming smitten with each other. Who is this stranger and will he win the hand of the fair Lady Audrey or will someone else step in and steal her heart?
If you like clean, historical romances you are sure to love this story. Grab you a copy and dig in. Enjoy!
I was gifted an Audible code by Emily Murdoch without any requirements for a review. I voluntarily provide this review for others to learn of this book and maybe pick up their own copy to read.
May 2, 2022
A Cinderella Story in Reverse
Lady Audrey had turned eighteen and it was time for her to have her come out ball. Her father the Viscount of Marchwood had decided it would be held in a Scottish Castle. Rumour had it that he was short of money and his coffers were drying up but he still wanted to treat his only child to this yearly ball.
Thomas, his father’s valet had met Audrey five years ago and had fallen in love with her. At her masked ball he asked her to dance and unbeknown to Audrey who had asked her to dance, she felt an instant attraction to him but he never told her who he was.
Audrey had been lured into her father’s library by a snake of a man and her masked hero had saved her which led to some steamy passionate moments and unsure of her emotions, she had ran away.
The day after going back into the library, Thomas approaches her and after sitting and talking to her, she looked into his eyes and saw all his love for her there and realised that Thomas all along was her masked hero.
A beautiful written Cinderella style story which touched my romantic heart where Thomas got his princess and it goes to show that not everything is as it seems.
Lady Audrey had turned eighteen and it was time for her to have her come out ball. Her father the Viscount of Marchwood had decided it would be held in a Scottish Castle. Rumour had it that he was short of money and his coffers were drying up but he still wanted to treat his only child to this yearly ball.
Thomas, his father’s valet had met Audrey five years ago and had fallen in love with her. At her masked ball he asked her to dance and unbeknown to Audrey who had asked her to dance, she felt an instant attraction to him but he never told her who he was.
Audrey had been lured into her father’s library by a snake of a man and her masked hero had saved her which led to some steamy passionate moments and unsure of her emotions, she had ran away.
The day after going back into the library, Thomas approaches her and after sitting and talking to her, she looked into his eyes and saw all his love for her there and realised that Thomas all along was her masked hero.
A beautiful written Cinderella style story which touched my romantic heart where Thomas got his princess and it goes to show that not everything is as it seems.
March 17, 2018
In this sweet Regency romance Lady Audrey finds herself in a rented Scottish castle for her father’s annual Christmas ball. She knows and understands that it is his attempt to match her with the best possible husband, even as rumours abound that his finances are running out. However, Lady Audrey is no shrinking violet and in an attempt to keep a modicum of control over the situation, she suggests that they hold a masked ball, which her father agrees to. The problem with masks is that they can veil both good and bad intentions, but in the process Lady Audrey finds that the answer to her dreams has been right in front of her without even realising it. This is a well written albeit short story with all the elements of a good romance. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
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June 25, 2023Sweet
Lady Audry is to come into society at her father's annual Christmas ball. Her father has rented a castle in Scotland to throw the ball in, but Audrey fears he is wasting his money, as rumors have her father running out of money. He tells her the story of her first Christmas, when her mother and he threw a masked ball. Audrey loves the idea, and this Christmas ball will be a masked ball.
At the ball, a tall, dark-haired masked gentleman asks her to dance. It's a wonderful dance after which he vanishes. After an unfortunate episode, he returns as a hero. The following day, she recognizes him. It's truly a sweet story.
Lady Audry is to come into society at her father's annual Christmas ball. Her father has rented a castle in Scotland to throw the ball in, but Audrey fears he is wasting his money, as rumors have her father running out of money. He tells her the story of her first Christmas, when her mother and he threw a masked ball. Audrey loves the idea, and this Christmas ball will be a masked ball.
At the ball, a tall, dark-haired masked gentleman asks her to dance. It's a wonderful dance after which he vanishes. After an unfortunate episode, he returns as a hero. The following day, she recognizes him. It's truly a sweet story.
March 20, 2017
This is a light-hearted short story set over only a week or two, with the story neatly wrapped up on Boxing Day. Audrey is self-assured young woman, not a difficult or spoiled daughter to her widowed father. There are no great conflicts, no miscommunication, and only one uncomfortable character. Of course there is a happy end.
An enjoyable, quick read for an evening with a not so common storyline.
An enjoyable, quick read for an evening with a not so common storyline.
May 13, 2017
What a sweet short story! Loved it!
This one was written in a way that I knew what the outcome was going to be (sometimes I do guess the correct thing) but I had to keep turning the pages to see if I was correct.
It is a very short story, about 62 pages for the whole book but a lot is packed into those pages to make it an enjoyable read with a great message in the end.
If you love a good romance with a few surprises thrown in then this is the story for you. Enjoy!
This one was written in a way that I knew what the outcome was going to be (sometimes I do guess the correct thing) but I had to keep turning the pages to see if I was correct.
It is a very short story, about 62 pages for the whole book but a lot is packed into those pages to make it an enjoyable read with a great message in the end.
If you love a good romance with a few surprises thrown in then this is the story for you. Enjoy!
May 24, 2017
A quick read of love from an unexpected source. Audrey takes a hand in planning her coming out at the family annual Christmas Ball and makes it a masquerade. She gets more than she bargained for. Secrets are revealed as she admits to what is in her heart. This is a fun, short story, and I plan on reading more by this author.
I received a copy of this story as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy of this story as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.
December 19, 2017
The Audiobook helped enhance the story for me!
I had purchased the book set, early this year, and had read all the stories, including A Christmas Surprise. But, listening to it made it come even more alive, and I caught things in the story I’d either missed, or didn’t remember. I think Virginia does a great job of defining the different voices, helping separate the characters. It is a fun book to read and to listen to!
I had purchased the book set, early this year, and had read all the stories, including A Christmas Surprise. But, listening to it made it come even more alive, and I caught things in the story I’d either missed, or didn’t remember. I think Virginia does a great job of defining the different voices, helping separate the characters. It is a fun book to read and to listen to!
October 28, 2017
Hero: Thomas /Valet--- Heroine: Audrey /18yr old daughter
Reading Enjoyment:4.* I enjoyed this sweet story, liked the masquerade ball and the dialogue between the two when they met. I have difficulty that with the ease of her being with a servant especially the dad's valet,that doesn't seem plausible.
Reading Enjoyment:4.* I enjoyed this sweet story, liked the masquerade ball and the dialogue between the two when they met. I have difficulty that with the ease of her being with a servant especially the dad's valet,that doesn't seem plausible.
November 28, 2017
I was gifted an Audible copy of A Christmas Surprise. This story is absolutely charming. Emily Murdoch tells a truly delightful tale of a secret love and accents it with a very romantic masquerade ball. Virginia Ferguson is an especially good narrator. Her British accent is a lovely touch to this Regency Romantic story. I can't wait to listen to more of Ms. Murdoch's audible books.
January 29, 2018
A valet and a baron's daughter is an interesting choice for a romance. Although the writing of tale is good and filled with a small surprise, the story is unbelievable for that time period. The truth is they would have had to elope and lived in squalor. He would have been blacklisted and never been able to work as a valet again. As such, I put this delightful tale down as a fairy tale.
March 22, 2018
A very fast read but I loved it. I loved the mask ball. I have always wanted to go to one of those. Loved the mystery of the gentleman who steals her kisses and heart at the ball.
It was a great book with a great loving father who wants the best for his daughter. I really enjoyed this book.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed it
It was a great book with a great loving father who wants the best for his daughter. I really enjoyed this book.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed it
July 26, 2017
I found this story delightful! Sweet clean romance that gives hints throughout the story of what might be leading up to the actual surprise in the end. However, it's the getting there that keeps the reader's interest going. A short quick read but well worth it.
September 23, 2017
I enjoyed this short love story. The heroine will find that love is right in front of her and once she opens her and heart she will find what she is looking for. I received a complimentary copy and I am reviewing voluntarily.
November 27, 2017
I found this book to be delightful. I love your humor & ideas you have turned into books. Even when you know who the masked man is it by the clues you gave at the first it doesn't take away from the originality of the story.
February 12, 2018
A fantastic sweet romance that will entertainment you until the last page!
An enjoyable way to spent an evening during Christmas holiday!
I recommend the book to all that love sweet and regency story.
An enjoyable way to spent an evening during Christmas holiday!
I recommend the book to all that love sweet and regency story.
June 3, 2018
Good
I really liked this book. It was great to see a very progressive father allowing his daughter to organise her own coming out party. The mysterious stranger who Lady Audrey was drawn too at the masked Christmas ball.
I really liked this book. It was great to see a very progressive father allowing his daughter to organise her own coming out party. The mysterious stranger who Lady Audrey was drawn too at the masked Christmas ball.
June 12, 2018
Another delightful novella in this series by Emily Murdoch. These stories make great reading material for the young and impressionable was females of today. It reminds us of the goodness and light that still exists in the world.
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