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Seasons #1
An Affair in Winter
The newest historical romance series from USA Today Bestselling Romance Author Jess Michaels
Widow Rosalinde Wilde is on her way to her beloved sister’s wedding when an unexpected storm waylays her at an overcrowded inn. There she meets a tempting stranger who sweeps her into a night of unforgettable passion.
Grayson Danford never expected a night with the irresistible Mrs. Wilde, but she was a welcome distraction from the unpleasant duty of breaking up his brother’s impending nuptials. He’s shocked when he discovers his passionate lover is none other than the sister of his brother's intended.
Now Rosalinde and Gray will butt heads, even as their simmering desire for each other threatens to boil over. Who will win? And who might lose it all?
Widow Rosalinde Wilde is on her way to her beloved sister’s wedding when an unexpected storm waylays her at an overcrowded inn. There she meets a tempting stranger who sweeps her into a night of unforgettable passion.
Grayson Danford never expected a night with the irresistible Mrs. Wilde, but she was a welcome distraction from the unpleasant duty of breaking up his brother’s impending nuptials. He’s shocked when he discovers his passionate lover is none other than the sister of his brother's intended.
Now Rosalinde and Gray will butt heads, even as their simmering desire for each other threatens to boil over. Who will win? And who might lose it all?
240 pages, ebook
First published July 12, 2016
1570 people are currently reading
1295 people want to read
About the author
Jess Michaels
126 books1,572 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
October 27, 2017
****4.5 Stars!****
This was my first read from this author and I’m hooked! I loved book one of the seasons series and I can’t wait to move on to the next instalment!
If you are looking for a historical romance that has family loyalty, love, and of course passion... then look no further! This had a great mixture and I couldn’t put the book down!!!
I’m always on the lookout for new authors who are talented and whose writing keeps me glued to the pages! Jess Michaels fits that bill perfectly! She has quite a big back list too which I’m excited to check out as well!
This was my first read from this author and I’m hooked! I loved book one of the seasons series and I can’t wait to move on to the next instalment!
If you are looking for a historical romance that has family loyalty, love, and of course passion... then look no further! This had a great mixture and I couldn’t put the book down!!!
I’m always on the lookout for new authors who are talented and whose writing keeps me glued to the pages! Jess Michaels fits that bill perfectly! She has quite a big back list too which I’m excited to check out as well!
May 6, 2022
I see so many 1 star rate for this book that I am gleefully writing this review. Maybe it was the hiper enjoyable narrator, or maybe I missed something important, because I enjoyed listening to every minute of this book and I already listened to the second one, for you to see how entertaining I thought it all was. Who knows?
Was it a ridiculous affair and I think the heroine needed to control her body a bit? Absolutely.
Was the hero a controlling freak that mothered his siblings like nothing? Oh yes.
I agree with everything bad I read about this review. That are many things I thought ridiculous but they in no way lessened my enjoyment.
Was it a ridiculous affair and I think the heroine needed to control her body a bit? Absolutely.
Was the hero a controlling freak that mothered his siblings like nothing? Oh yes.
I agree with everything bad I read about this review. That are many things I thought ridiculous but they in no way lessened my enjoyment.
March 11, 2018
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I feel like this one had a lot of potential, but it sadly was just kind of...meh. I get their lust and there were some pretty good sexy times, but I wanted more romance I guess. I also felt like their conflict was kind of stupid after a while. The h also turned into a stupid, horny puddle whenever the H so much as looked at her! That is definitely one of my pet peeves for hs, because I like the strong willed females that use their brains as well as their sexual prowess!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Rosalinde and Gray's story. They meet one night in a small inn when the weather has them off the roads. Because of the over capacity, they are forced to share a meal together and both are instantly attracted to one another and end up having a hot night together. They are shocked to find that they are headed to the same place where Rosalinde is going to support her sister for her upcoming wedding and Gray is trying to stop his brother from marrying her sister. They bump heads a little, but the strong attraction and connection they felt towards one another is too hard to deny. There is some family/past drama and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing on Rosalinde and Gray in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the abrupt ending. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Not really. Instalust? Yes. In the grand scheme of things the feelings did develop rather quickly, but I wouldn't call it instalove.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Gray. I liked him alright. I thought his insistence to stop the wedding was a little weird considering they were all open about what it was. But I did appreciate how he cared for the h.
h rating: 2.5 stars. Rosalinde. She was okay. I didn't like the way her mental capabilities went to mush when the H showed interest.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes, but mild
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a kind of abrupt ending with what I would reluctantly call a HEA. I would've liked some time with them as an actual couple and maybe a farther glimpse into their future!
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I feel like this one had a lot of potential, but it sadly was just kind of...meh. I get their lust and there were some pretty good sexy times, but I wanted more romance I guess. I also felt like their conflict was kind of stupid after a while. The h also turned into a stupid, horny puddle whenever the H so much as looked at her! That is definitely one of my pet peeves for hs, because I like the strong willed females that use their brains as well as their sexual prowess!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Rosalinde and Gray's story. They meet one night in a small inn when the weather has them off the roads. Because of the over capacity, they are forced to share a meal together and both are instantly attracted to one another and end up having a hot night together. They are shocked to find that they are headed to the same place where Rosalinde is going to support her sister for her upcoming wedding and Gray is trying to stop his brother from marrying her sister. They bump heads a little, but the strong attraction and connection they felt towards one another is too hard to deny. There is some family/past drama and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing on Rosalinde and Gray in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the abrupt ending. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Not really. Instalust? Yes. In the grand scheme of things the feelings did develop rather quickly, but I wouldn't call it instalove.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Gray. I liked him alright. I thought his insistence to stop the wedding was a little weird considering they were all open about what it was. But I did appreciate how he cared for the h.
h rating: 2.5 stars. Rosalinde. She was okay. I didn't like the way her mental capabilities went to mush when the H showed interest.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes, but mild
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a kind of abrupt ending with what I would reluctantly call a HEA. I would've liked some time with them as an actual couple and maybe a farther glimpse into their future!
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
October 12, 2020
Disappointing
I read one other book by this author and really enjoyed it. After that, this was quite disappointing. Too boring! Sorry, after 63%, couldn't finish. I don't expect it to get better by this point.
I read one other book by this author and really enjoyed it. After that, this was quite disappointing. Too boring! Sorry, after 63%, couldn't finish. I don't expect it to get better by this point.
December 19, 2024
3.5 stars
Rosalinde and Gray find themselves at the same inn while traveling during a bad snow storm. When there is an issue with Rosalinde’s room, Gray offers her his room and because they’re both single, hot and horny, winter themed bom chicka wow wow ensues. Afterwards, they separate and are convinced they will never see each other again. That is, until Rosalinde arrives at her sister Celia’s pre-wedding festivities, and she complains about her fiancé’s brother who’s been a massive jerk and then the jerk brother walks in and it’s GRAY 🙃 Did I mention that Gray is determined to break up Celia and his brother’s engagement?!?
This was a solid romance. Rosalinde is a widow and I love a widow heroine in historicals because they truly don’t GAF about reputations and are usually open to smexy shenanigans. Rosalinde’s first marriage was an unhappy one and Gray opens her up *snickers* to a whole new level of passion. Gray was an ok hero but he was a tad too overprotective. Even though he was worried about his brother Lucien-for good reason given his previous engagement-he was giving control freak for most of the book. I was shocked that he was younger than Lucien because he was giving STRONG eldest sibling energy 😂Lucien and Celia were going into this marriage with their eyes wide open; she needed a title and he needed her dowry, they never pretended that they were in love with each other! Thus, I never understand Gray’s hatred toward Celia because she wasn’t deceiving Lucien at all. On top of that, it’s clear that she’s a good person. I started to like him more once he got over himself but that only happened within the last 20 percent of the book 😭
Rosalinde and Gray find themselves at the same inn while traveling during a bad snow storm. When there is an issue with Rosalinde’s room, Gray offers her his room and because they’re both single, hot and horny, winter themed bom chicka wow wow ensues. Afterwards, they separate and are convinced they will never see each other again. That is, until Rosalinde arrives at her sister Celia’s pre-wedding festivities, and she complains about her fiancé’s brother who’s been a massive jerk and then the jerk brother walks in and it’s GRAY 🙃 Did I mention that Gray is determined to break up Celia and his brother’s engagement?!?
This was a solid romance. Rosalinde is a widow and I love a widow heroine in historicals because they truly don’t GAF about reputations and are usually open to smexy shenanigans. Rosalinde’s first marriage was an unhappy one and Gray opens her up *snickers* to a whole new level of passion. Gray was an ok hero but he was a tad too overprotective. Even though he was worried about his brother Lucien-for good reason given his previous engagement-he was giving control freak for most of the book. I was shocked that he was younger than Lucien because he was giving STRONG eldest sibling energy 😂Lucien and Celia were going into this marriage with their eyes wide open; she needed a title and he needed her dowry, they never pretended that they were in love with each other! Thus, I never understand Gray’s hatred toward Celia because she wasn’t deceiving Lucien at all. On top of that, it’s clear that she’s a good person. I started to like him more once he got over himself but that only happened within the last 20 percent of the book 😭
May 31, 2023
Not bad . 3.5 stars
May 22, 2021
Sorry to say this felt like a mess. Wish I could have
un-read this frustrating story.
Grandpa was oppressive toward sisters Rosalinde
(the h) & Celia. The hero, Gray, acted overbearing
toward his sibs & seduced Rosa @ will. Judgmental
Gray reminded me of the old saying : Who died and
made you King? Grandpa forced Celia to become en-
gaged to Gray's older bro Luc. An indifferent couple.
This had more sex than story. Gray defended Rosa
against G'pa. Too much pretending everything was
fine. The end.
un-read this frustrating story.
Grandpa was oppressive toward sisters Rosalinde
(the h) & Celia. The hero, Gray, acted overbearing
toward his sibs & seduced Rosa @ will. Judgmental
Gray reminded me of the old saying : Who died and
made you King? Grandpa forced Celia to become en-
gaged to Gray's older bro Luc. An indifferent couple.
This had more sex than story. Gray defended Rosa
against G'pa. Too much pretending everything was
fine. The end.
February 11, 2021
In just a few chapters we got:
- Woman who is so utterly gorgeous that every single man a crowded inn stares at her but who is utterly convinced that she's ugly
- A dude who almost orgasms just from...watching her eat
- two MCs who keep doing/saying things and then informing us that they totes didn't want to to do that but have been compelled by some primal urge or whatever...
Thanks but no
- Woman who is so utterly gorgeous that every single man a crowded inn stares at her but who is utterly convinced that she's ugly
- A dude who almost orgasms just from...watching her eat
- two MCs who keep doing/saying things and then informing us that they totes didn't want to to do that but have been compelled by some primal urge or whatever...
Thanks but no
August 24, 2020
Trigger warnings: verbally abusive and controlling family member, blackmail.
Okay, so here's the thing. I "bought" TWELVE free Regency romances at once a couple of weeks ago. I...have regrets. And yet I'm still going to work my way through them all, even though I have literally zero expectations at this point.
This, once again, was fine but nothing special. It had a slightly fan fic feel to it and I can't quite put my finger on what didn't work for me. I enjoyed the "there was only one bed" trope at the beginning, but the heroine's incredibly toxic and verbally abusive grandfather was.......yikes. Like, I understand that he's there to create tension in the story but y.i.k.e.s.
Okay, so here's the thing. I "bought" TWELVE free Regency romances at once a couple of weeks ago. I...have regrets. And yet I'm still going to work my way through them all, even though I have literally zero expectations at this point.
This, once again, was fine but nothing special. It had a slightly fan fic feel to it and I can't quite put my finger on what didn't work for me. I enjoyed the "there was only one bed" trope at the beginning, but the heroine's incredibly toxic and verbally abusive grandfather was.......yikes. Like, I understand that he's there to create tension in the story but y.i.k.e.s.
October 7, 2022
4.5 stars rounded up.
After her own failed married, widowed Rosalinde Wilde is excited to see her beloved sister marry a good man, but a storm impedes her journey to the nuptials. Stranded overnight at a packed in, Rosalinde winds up spending a steamy, unforgettable night with a stranger.
Grayson Danford certainly didn’t expect to find himself unable to forget the stranger with whom he shared such an exciting night, but he’s grateful for the distraction from his brother’s upcoming wedding. So, he’s floored when he learns his lover of the previous night is actually sister to his brother’s fiancé.
Rosalinde and Gray are now very much at odds, but that does nothing to curb the desire they still clearly feel for one another, and it remains to be seen who will win in their battle of wills.
Lately I’ve decided to try to find some fall or winter set reads to get me into the feel of the cozy season, so I picked this one strictly because of the name and it did happen to have been on my TBR for some time. I’m not sure I really got cozy winter vibes from it, but I did enjoy the emotionally charged story. There are a lot of tropes at play here and I think they were all quite well done and made this story feel fresh and not quite like anything I’ve read before. Even with the enemies energy Gray kept trying to maintain with Rosalinde, these two still felt inevitable. It was obvious that they were drawn together, and he was afraid of his emotions, and I loved that Rosalinde was unapologetic about hers. Despite everything she’d faced with her unhappy marriage and her grandfather’s cruelty, she still believed in love and was willing to fight for it for herself and for her sister. She also showed Gray how to trust those feelings and accept the good with the bad, rather than living in fear of hurting or disappointing those he loved. I really liked that aspect, and it made Gray likeable, because otherwise he was a bit of a prat.
The supporting characters were well-developed here as well. I was interested in Felicity, Celia and Lucien just as much as Rosalinde and Gray at times and I now want to read their stories. I loved how Gray defended Rosalinde and stepped up to embrace his feelings, but I also loved that it came about in such a way that Rosalinde was still the bold one who put herself out there first. I enjoyed this story and will hopefully continue the series.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
After her own failed married, widowed Rosalinde Wilde is excited to see her beloved sister marry a good man, but a storm impedes her journey to the nuptials. Stranded overnight at a packed in, Rosalinde winds up spending a steamy, unforgettable night with a stranger.
Grayson Danford certainly didn’t expect to find himself unable to forget the stranger with whom he shared such an exciting night, but he’s grateful for the distraction from his brother’s upcoming wedding. So, he’s floored when he learns his lover of the previous night is actually sister to his brother’s fiancé.
Rosalinde and Gray are now very much at odds, but that does nothing to curb the desire they still clearly feel for one another, and it remains to be seen who will win in their battle of wills.
Lately I’ve decided to try to find some fall or winter set reads to get me into the feel of the cozy season, so I picked this one strictly because of the name and it did happen to have been on my TBR for some time. I’m not sure I really got cozy winter vibes from it, but I did enjoy the emotionally charged story. There are a lot of tropes at play here and I think they were all quite well done and made this story feel fresh and not quite like anything I’ve read before. Even with the enemies energy Gray kept trying to maintain with Rosalinde, these two still felt inevitable. It was obvious that they were drawn together, and he was afraid of his emotions, and I loved that Rosalinde was unapologetic about hers. Despite everything she’d faced with her unhappy marriage and her grandfather’s cruelty, she still believed in love and was willing to fight for it for herself and for her sister. She also showed Gray how to trust those feelings and accept the good with the bad, rather than living in fear of hurting or disappointing those he loved. I really liked that aspect, and it made Gray likeable, because otherwise he was a bit of a prat.
The supporting characters were well-developed here as well. I was interested in Felicity, Celia and Lucien just as much as Rosalinde and Gray at times and I now want to read their stories. I loved how Gray defended Rosalinde and stepped up to embrace his feelings, but I also loved that it came about in such a way that Rosalinde was still the bold one who put herself out there first. I enjoyed this story and will hopefully continue the series.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 12, 2016
Happiness for this reader, is snuggling up on my sofa with a Jess Michaels title and being dazzled by the story and the sleek sensuality in everything this talented author writes. An Affair in Winter is no exception and an impressive beginning to her SEASONS series.
On her way to her sister's wedding, a Winter storm disrupts Rosalinde Wilde's travel and she takes shelter at an inn where the widow meets a striking stranger who rocks her world with an impassioned night of forbidden lovemaking.
Grayson Danford must stop his brother's nuptials before it is too late, but the night he spends in the passionate woman's arms throws him for a loop. Upon arriving home to take care of business, Grayson soon discovers that the woman he spent the night making love with is none other than the intended bride's widowed sister. Oh this just got better!
When Rosaline finds out that her ardent lover of one night is brother to her sister's groom-to-be and that Grayson objects to the joining of those two, sparks fly as Rosalinde defends not only her sister, but her pride as well, and the undeniable desire that flares between both Grayson and Rosalinde promises to ignite.
AN AFFAIR IN WINTER by Jess Michaels is a wonderful story filled with ethereal attraction and wonder. I loved this story. I love a great second chances at love, and this is a prime example.
December 17, 2020
DNF at 50%
Couldnt care less
Poorly developed story, had some great movements, but.. didn't work out for me
Boring
Couldnt care less
Poorly developed story, had some great movements, but.. didn't work out for me
Boring
January 6, 2023
3.5⭐️ rounded up.
Tropes:
~they meet as one night stand
~forced proximity
~widow heroine
TW for super toxic grandfather who is emotionally abusive
Tropes:
~they meet as one night stand
~forced proximity
~widow heroine
TW for super toxic grandfather who is emotionally abusive
June 23, 2016
I ate this book up like a ice cream sundae on a hot summer day and it was delicious. Oh my god! Jess Michaels has written another book that I fell absolutely in love with. I have read 20 of her books including this one. I have my favorites but An Affair in Winter is probably my absolute favorite. It is filled with a sweet and steamy romance and the perfect blend of loveable characters, layers of conflict and the perfect amount of drama to make this one of the juiciest romances I have ever read.
Basically, two people are stranded at an inn, they are instantly attracted to each other and spend a glorious and magical night together. Next day, our main heroine Rosalinde continues her travels to meet with her sister, Celia, as her sister is about to be married. What she doesn't know is that the man whom she spend such a wonderfully passionate night with, Lord Gray, is the brother of her sister's betrothed.
Everyone has there reasons to encourage and discourage this wedding and let me tell you it was so exciting to see how everything would unravel. I won't say what their reasons are because that would provide too many spoilers but they are very legit reasons. Rosalinde and Gray are trying to protect their siblings and end up being enemies in a way. One wants the marriage to happen and the other wants to put a stop to it. Seeing the protectiveness and love in all of the characters was so sweet and made my heart break at times. There was so much emotional depth to the story and characters. I laughed, cried, sighed and smiled with the wonderful characters. Unfortunately, the characters all have to deal with a double-edged sword. If they choose one way or the other and there will be several consequences, both good and bad. No matter what, someone will lose something or someone in the end. It really was super juicy and worth the wait.
I appreciate the fact that there was an actual plot to this story. Some of the romances/erotica I have read in general have had some plot to move the story along but not that much or the plot wasn't that thrilling or intriguing, this was not the case for this book. This book had so many levels of conflict and secrets to be revealed not just to the reader but also to the other characters. I love how the story unraveled. It was perfect. I was so involved in this story that I didn't want it to end. I was just so caught up in it.
I strongly recommend this book to all romance readers because it has a little bit of everything. It has a conflicting and passionate romance, loveable characters, the perfect amount of conflict and the right blend of magnetism where you just want to know how the story ends but also hope that it doesn't. I cannot wait for the next book! I need it now. A Spring Deception will be released September 6, 2016 and it focuses on the beloved sister, Celia and a Duke who may not be what he seems...
I received this ARC via Netgalley. Thank you Netgalley!
Basically, two people are stranded at an inn, they are instantly attracted to each other and spend a glorious and magical night together. Next day, our main heroine Rosalinde continues her travels to meet with her sister, Celia, as her sister is about to be married. What she doesn't know is that the man whom she spend such a wonderfully passionate night with, Lord Gray, is the brother of her sister's betrothed.
Everyone has there reasons to encourage and discourage this wedding and let me tell you it was so exciting to see how everything would unravel. I won't say what their reasons are because that would provide too many spoilers but they are very legit reasons. Rosalinde and Gray are trying to protect their siblings and end up being enemies in a way. One wants the marriage to happen and the other wants to put a stop to it. Seeing the protectiveness and love in all of the characters was so sweet and made my heart break at times. There was so much emotional depth to the story and characters. I laughed, cried, sighed and smiled with the wonderful characters. Unfortunately, the characters all have to deal with a double-edged sword. If they choose one way or the other and there will be several consequences, both good and bad. No matter what, someone will lose something or someone in the end. It really was super juicy and worth the wait.
I appreciate the fact that there was an actual plot to this story. Some of the romances/erotica I have read in general have had some plot to move the story along but not that much or the plot wasn't that thrilling or intriguing, this was not the case for this book. This book had so many levels of conflict and secrets to be revealed not just to the reader but also to the other characters. I love how the story unraveled. It was perfect. I was so involved in this story that I didn't want it to end. I was just so caught up in it.
I strongly recommend this book to all romance readers because it has a little bit of everything. It has a conflicting and passionate romance, loveable characters, the perfect amount of conflict and the right blend of magnetism where you just want to know how the story ends but also hope that it doesn't. I cannot wait for the next book! I need it now. A Spring Deception will be released September 6, 2016 and it focuses on the beloved sister, Celia and a Duke who may not be what he seems...
I received this ARC via Netgalley. Thank you Netgalley!
July 10, 2016
I love Jess Mickaels! I love the fact that I know when I pick up her books that I'm going to love them. This book did not disappoint! Lord "Gray" Grayson and Rosalinde "Mrs. Wilde" Fitzgilbert have both been through hell. After watching both his brother and sister almost loss their lives because of marriage Gray wants no part of that. Gray has vowed never to fall for a woman. Rosalinde and her sister were raised by their mean spirited, vile controlling and manipulative grandfather. Who never had a kind word or action.
On the way home in hopes to stop his brothers wedding, Gray is stranded for the night at an Inn due to a snowstorm. In walks the mysterious and breathtaking widow, Mrs. Wilde. Instantly drawn to each other the share a meal and a night of passion that they've never known before. Knowing they will never meet again they part ways in the wee hours of the morning and head to their final destinations. Little did they know they would meet again they next morning to celebrate the wedding of their siblings. The marriage that Gray's vowed to stop and Rosalinde vows will take place. Sparks will fly. Undeniable passion unfolds. Secrets are revealed.
On the way home in hopes to stop his brothers wedding, Gray is stranded for the night at an Inn due to a snowstorm. In walks the mysterious and breathtaking widow, Mrs. Wilde. Instantly drawn to each other the share a meal and a night of passion that they've never known before. Knowing they will never meet again they part ways in the wee hours of the morning and head to their final destinations. Little did they know they would meet again they next morning to celebrate the wedding of their siblings. The marriage that Gray's vowed to stop and Rosalinde vows will take place. Sparks will fly. Undeniable passion unfolds. Secrets are revealed.
January 9, 2021
The H is strong silent type, sees the heroine and wants her. Luckily, she sort of falls into his arms for a night. Of course there are complications; an evil grandfather, an engaged couple who are not in love and a mystery. It's well written with an interesting plot and characters. But I have no desire to read the next book.
July 19, 2016
Originally reviewed at My Devastating Reads
This new release by Jess Michaels sounded too good to pass up. The cover was delicious, the premise sounded entertaining. I love a good romance with heat and humor, and this one promised both. I had never read a thing by this author before, but being a huge fan of historical romance, I could not pass up the opportunity to read this novel. And I was not disappointed. I was delighted.
The novel opens up with our heroine Rosalinde travelling in the midst of a storm that leaves her stranded at a crowded inn with other stranded travelers, one being our hero, Grayson. Right from the opening pages I was impressed with the polished writing and usage of language from the period in which this novel is set. It was a very easy to settle into, and then the sizzle hit. And sizzle might be something of an understatement because Rosalinde and Gray set the pages on fire in a lot of ways. What impressed me immediately about Rosalinde was that it was clear she was a woman who followed her heart. She wasn't seduced but rather, made her own choices about how and where she intended to spend the night.
And this is who Rosalinde is, a woman who makes her own choices even if they are met with anger and disapproval by her grandfather, who is a despicable man. She's not a woman to throw caution and good sense to the wind, but she does follow her heart and her heart desperately wants Gray even when his identity is revealed, even when it seems she can never have him. Even if the choice might cause her discomfort. She makes the necessary sacrifices to be true to herself while recognizing that her position in society is very vulnerable. That's true bravery in my books, and so I quite admire this character.
I also adore Gray. His determination to care for his brother and sister even when it's plain they don't need his interference paint him as a man with a good heart and I wanted that for Rosalinde. I also loved the way he was so totally ga-ga over her. It was so obvious from the beginning that he was madly in love with Rosalinde, and sometimes I love it when it takes the hero forever to figure out this simple truth. I liked that even though he was determined to show his brother the error of his ways, he couldn't steel himself against what that might mean to Rosalinde. He thought himself cold, but he was anything but and I loved his confession of love at the end of the book. It oozed romance, and tickled me pink.
This book kept me turning the pages from beginning to end. Well written, well told, it was a sizzling, sexy and erotic romance and I honestly loved this novel. I am eagerly awaiting more from this series.
I would like to thank the author for providing me a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
This new release by Jess Michaels sounded too good to pass up. The cover was delicious, the premise sounded entertaining. I love a good romance with heat and humor, and this one promised both. I had never read a thing by this author before, but being a huge fan of historical romance, I could not pass up the opportunity to read this novel. And I was not disappointed. I was delighted.
The novel opens up with our heroine Rosalinde travelling in the midst of a storm that leaves her stranded at a crowded inn with other stranded travelers, one being our hero, Grayson. Right from the opening pages I was impressed with the polished writing and usage of language from the period in which this novel is set. It was a very easy to settle into, and then the sizzle hit. And sizzle might be something of an understatement because Rosalinde and Gray set the pages on fire in a lot of ways. What impressed me immediately about Rosalinde was that it was clear she was a woman who followed her heart. She wasn't seduced but rather, made her own choices about how and where she intended to spend the night.
And this is who Rosalinde is, a woman who makes her own choices even if they are met with anger and disapproval by her grandfather, who is a despicable man. She's not a woman to throw caution and good sense to the wind, but she does follow her heart and her heart desperately wants Gray even when his identity is revealed, even when it seems she can never have him. Even if the choice might cause her discomfort. She makes the necessary sacrifices to be true to herself while recognizing that her position in society is very vulnerable. That's true bravery in my books, and so I quite admire this character.
I also adore Gray. His determination to care for his brother and sister even when it's plain they don't need his interference paint him as a man with a good heart and I wanted that for Rosalinde. I also loved the way he was so totally ga-ga over her. It was so obvious from the beginning that he was madly in love with Rosalinde, and sometimes I love it when it takes the hero forever to figure out this simple truth. I liked that even though he was determined to show his brother the error of his ways, he couldn't steel himself against what that might mean to Rosalinde. He thought himself cold, but he was anything but and I loved his confession of love at the end of the book. It oozed romance, and tickled me pink.
This book kept me turning the pages from beginning to end. Well written, well told, it was a sizzling, sexy and erotic romance and I honestly loved this novel. I am eagerly awaiting more from this series.
I would like to thank the author for providing me a copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2016
Jess Michaels has been on my radar for quite a while but I’ve never had the opportunity to read one of her books. Her writing style favors a more sensual and steamy Historical Romance but it also conveys real emotional connections for the main characters. The first release of her new Seasons series – An Affair in Winter – was the perfect chance to jump into her books and discover what I’d been missing.
The rough roads and the terrible weather are playing havoc on Rosalinde Wilde’s journey to Caraway Court, the estate of her sister’s fiancé and location of their upcoming wedding. When the storm picks up there is nothing for her driver to do but stop at the first inn available. Rosalinde’s fine appearance and coin buy her the last available room at the inn but as a woman traveling alone she has already gained the attention of several of the men seeking their own shelter for the night. One of those men who notices Rosalinde’s entrance is Grayson Danford, younger brother to the Earl of Stenfax and also traveling to Caraway Court. Acting against his better judgement Grayson invites Rosalinde to dine with him and their shared meal leads to a few hours of intimate conversation. The flirtation and attraction between them ramps up quickly, moving them from the taproom to his bedroom for a single night of passion before they part in the morning.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
The rough roads and the terrible weather are playing havoc on Rosalinde Wilde’s journey to Caraway Court, the estate of her sister’s fiancé and location of their upcoming wedding. When the storm picks up there is nothing for her driver to do but stop at the first inn available. Rosalinde’s fine appearance and coin buy her the last available room at the inn but as a woman traveling alone she has already gained the attention of several of the men seeking their own shelter for the night. One of those men who notices Rosalinde’s entrance is Grayson Danford, younger brother to the Earl of Stenfax and also traveling to Caraway Court. Acting against his better judgement Grayson invites Rosalinde to dine with him and their shared meal leads to a few hours of intimate conversation. The flirtation and attraction between them ramps up quickly, moving them from the taproom to his bedroom for a single night of passion before they part in the morning.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
October 31, 2020
A snowstorm and impassable roads cause widow Rosalinde Wilde to take shelter at a run down, overcrowded inn. Grayson Danford is stuck at the same inn and can't help but notice and inquire after the beautiful woman. When a window breaks in her room, Gray invites her to share his. The two give in to passion and spend a no-strings night together. Fate has other plans, and the two find each other again the next day at a house party for their respective siblings' marriage!
This book started really well. I liked the set up at the inn, the characters sharing a meal, and the coincidental broken window that leads to their hook up. After the "surprise" reunion and eventual second bed-down, the story starts to drag a bit with the external conflict. Gray wants to stop their siblings' marriage of convenience. Rosalinde's sister is being blackmailed by their hateful grandfather, and Gray's brother claims to be content with a large dowry and emotionless transactional relationship. The story did end well, but the character tension through the middle just wasn't very emotionally engaging to me. 3.5 stars
Tropes: One Night Stand, Forced Proximity
This book started really well. I liked the set up at the inn, the characters sharing a meal, and the coincidental broken window that leads to their hook up. After the "surprise" reunion and eventual second bed-down, the story starts to drag a bit with the external conflict. Gray wants to stop their siblings' marriage of convenience. Rosalinde's sister is being blackmailed by their hateful grandfather, and Gray's brother claims to be content with a large dowry and emotionless transactional relationship. The story did end well, but the character tension through the middle just wasn't very emotionally engaging to me. 3.5 stars
Tropes: One Night Stand, Forced Proximity
July 27, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up to four.
July 16, 2016
I didn't quite feel the connection to the main characters as much as I have reading other books in the series, but I still wasn't able to put the book down before the last sentence, the writing is just so good! For more romance reviews, check out my website: https://katherinasbooks.wordpress.com
December 6, 2017
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
I had mixed emotions with this one. I enjoyed the story as a whole, but at times I found it on the boring side. When put down, I didn't always want to pick it back up. But overall, I liked the book and plan to read the next one in the series.
I had mixed emotions with this one. I enjoyed the story as a whole, but at times I found it on the boring side. When put down, I didn't always want to pick it back up. But overall, I liked the book and plan to read the next one in the series.
December 16, 2019
Fine, but forgettable.
August 11, 2023
An Affair in Winter is book 1 in Jess Michael's 'Seasons' 4 book series and I'm very much looking forward to book 2. This was a freebie to try the author, and so far I'm hooked.
Mrs. Rosalinde Wilde is a widow, traveling to her sister's wedding in the country. After a freak storm hits the area, her coach limps to the nearest inn where she must stay the night. After sharing a dinner table and a few hours conversation with a stranger in the overcrowded inn, a mutual attraction is evident and Gray is ready to pounce.
Respectful of this beautiful woman who has enchanted him, Gray reluctantly escorts her upstairs to her room to call it a night. But a tree branch from the storm has broken a window and littered glass everywhere in her room. Gray offers for her to share his room, promising to be gone before her maid appears in the morning. He also promises not to touch her unless she wants him to. Well, she does and then begins a night of passion that neither will forget. For Rosalinde, it is everything she always wanted but never had with her late husband. For Gray it was his first liaison in a few years, opting to forgo marriage or romantic entanglements to build his fortune. But when they part ways the next morning, both leave knowing that they will never meet again, yet treasuring the memories made.
Little do they realize that they are about to meet very soon, and under the most unexpected circumstances. While Rosalinde is staying with her sister, Celia, at her fiance's estate and trying to be supportive of their marriage of convenience, Gray is visiting his brother to talk him out of his impending marriage... to Celia. Rosalinde's sister is marrying a title at her grandfather's urging, and Gray's brother is marrying for her dowry. A simple marriage of convenience, yes, but it doesn't sit right with Gray or Rosalinde. Can Rosalinde convince Celia to hold out for a love match? Can Gray talk Lucien out of this marriage? Will an old flame make an appearance and throw a wrench into everything?
I really enjoyed this book and storm-related forced proximity is my catnip. This is an insta-lust trope, particularly where Gray is concerned, but I like the rapport they build over dinner and conversation. It is a bit far-fetched to think they didn't discuss their travel destination and put together their connection, but I liked that days later at the ball they asked and honestly admitted neither knew who the other truly was. Gray was on guard around Rosalinde since she was initially fighting for her sister's marriage to take place when Gray was not. Then later in the story Gray feels the marriage is best for Lucien, while Rosalinde feels Celia should hold out for a love match.
I really felt for Rosalinde and Celia and the horrible way they were treated by their grandfather. At the beginning when they meet, Gray tells Rosalinde she is exceptionally beautiful but she has a hard time digesting that. Sometimes readers roll their eyes when the beautiful girl demurs but she and her sister have been verbally abused for years by their grandfather. And when Gray sat down with Fitzgilbert and finally had a conversation with him, everything clicked and Gray sees exactly the kind of man he is, the man that Celia and Rosalinde fear. Armed with that knowledge, he sees Rosalinde in a much different light. Celia too. And some family secrets begin rising to the surface.
Gray and Rosalinde have a crazy chemistry and they can't get enough of each other. This is a steamy read, of course, but it was fun to watch both of them struggle to rein in their passion to keep their liaison a secret. But people have eyes and the burning glares and long stares don't go unnoticed. When an altercation with Fitzgilbert puts his true colors on display and threatens Rosalinde, it's Gray that comes to her aid, in more ways than one.
I really enjoyed this book and I've got book 2, which is Celia's story, on tap to read next. The only issue I had with this book was that it contained very little actual romance. Gray is deciding if he can do a romantic relationship, while Rosalinde knows she's fallen in love. She keeps it to herself because Gray clams up when talk of a possible future comes up. That was enough to convince Rosalinde that perhaps everything is one-sided, yet he shows her and tells her how much he wants her in other ways. He just can't seem to recognize his feelings. Oh Gray.
I liked the author's writing style and I thought she weaved a good story about two people who care so much for their siblings, they are willing to fight for them. Family loyalty is tight on both sides. In the midst of the drama is a hint of romance, that admittedly was weak, but totally hot in other ways.
I give this 4 stars. Thoroughly enjoyed this one. Steam is a 3.5 🔥🔥🔥 from me.
Mrs. Rosalinde Wilde is a widow, traveling to her sister's wedding in the country. After a freak storm hits the area, her coach limps to the nearest inn where she must stay the night. After sharing a dinner table and a few hours conversation with a stranger in the overcrowded inn, a mutual attraction is evident and Gray is ready to pounce.
Respectful of this beautiful woman who has enchanted him, Gray reluctantly escorts her upstairs to her room to call it a night. But a tree branch from the storm has broken a window and littered glass everywhere in her room. Gray offers for her to share his room, promising to be gone before her maid appears in the morning. He also promises not to touch her unless she wants him to. Well, she does and then begins a night of passion that neither will forget. For Rosalinde, it is everything she always wanted but never had with her late husband. For Gray it was his first liaison in a few years, opting to forgo marriage or romantic entanglements to build his fortune. But when they part ways the next morning, both leave knowing that they will never meet again, yet treasuring the memories made.
Little do they realize that they are about to meet very soon, and under the most unexpected circumstances. While Rosalinde is staying with her sister, Celia, at her fiance's estate and trying to be supportive of their marriage of convenience, Gray is visiting his brother to talk him out of his impending marriage... to Celia. Rosalinde's sister is marrying a title at her grandfather's urging, and Gray's brother is marrying for her dowry. A simple marriage of convenience, yes, but it doesn't sit right with Gray or Rosalinde. Can Rosalinde convince Celia to hold out for a love match? Can Gray talk Lucien out of this marriage? Will an old flame make an appearance and throw a wrench into everything?
I really enjoyed this book and storm-related forced proximity is my catnip. This is an insta-lust trope, particularly where Gray is concerned, but I like the rapport they build over dinner and conversation. It is a bit far-fetched to think they didn't discuss their travel destination and put together their connection, but I liked that days later at the ball they asked and honestly admitted neither knew who the other truly was. Gray was on guard around Rosalinde since she was initially fighting for her sister's marriage to take place when Gray was not. Then later in the story Gray feels the marriage is best for Lucien, while Rosalinde feels Celia should hold out for a love match.
I really felt for Rosalinde and Celia and the horrible way they were treated by their grandfather. At the beginning when they meet, Gray tells Rosalinde she is exceptionally beautiful but she has a hard time digesting that. Sometimes readers roll their eyes when the beautiful girl demurs but she and her sister have been verbally abused for years by their grandfather. And when Gray sat down with Fitzgilbert and finally had a conversation with him, everything clicked and Gray sees exactly the kind of man he is, the man that Celia and Rosalinde fear. Armed with that knowledge, he sees Rosalinde in a much different light. Celia too. And some family secrets begin rising to the surface.
Gray and Rosalinde have a crazy chemistry and they can't get enough of each other. This is a steamy read, of course, but it was fun to watch both of them struggle to rein in their passion to keep their liaison a secret. But people have eyes and the burning glares and long stares don't go unnoticed. When an altercation with Fitzgilbert puts his true colors on display and threatens Rosalinde, it's Gray that comes to her aid, in more ways than one.
I really enjoyed this book and I've got book 2, which is Celia's story, on tap to read next. The only issue I had with this book was that it contained very little actual romance. Gray is deciding if he can do a romantic relationship, while Rosalinde knows she's fallen in love. She keeps it to herself because Gray clams up when talk of a possible future comes up. That was enough to convince Rosalinde that perhaps everything is one-sided, yet he shows her and tells her how much he wants her in other ways. He just can't seem to recognize his feelings. Oh Gray.
I liked the author's writing style and I thought she weaved a good story about two people who care so much for their siblings, they are willing to fight for them. Family loyalty is tight on both sides. In the midst of the drama is a hint of romance, that admittedly was weak, but totally hot in other ways.
I give this 4 stars. Thoroughly enjoyed this one. Steam is a 3.5 🔥🔥🔥 from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2024
3-2 it was fun but nothing really outstanding
March 18, 2025
Dnf at 30%, the general idea is good but the actual book is just boring.
March 1, 2025
Recensione pubblicata nel Blog Crispi's Books
Buongiorno amiche lettrici!
Oggi desidero parlarvi del primo volume di una nuova serie di romanzi storici, frutto della penna e della fantasia di Jess Michaels, un’autrice bestseller di USA Today, che ha all’attivo diverse pubblicazioni. Sono storie caratterizzate da una sfumatura piuttosto piccante e ardente, che si inserisce in maniera armonica all’interno di trame decisamente accattivanti e godibili, dove non manca mai una traccia di suspense e intrigo, che riescono a dare forma a una miscela avvincente che si sviluppa tra passione, segreti, omissioni, colpi di scena, intoppi e rivelazioni. Questa volta a mio giudizio, la Michaels si è superata! In prima battuta, la storia potrebbe sembrare un qualcosa di già visto, sotto la spinta dei più consolidati e amati clichè, ma andando avanti con la lettura gli intrecci diventano talmente complessi e ben strutturati, da rendere il romanzo molto coinvolgente e interessante. Per alcuni versi mi ha ricordato una “commedia degli equivoci”, dove i colpi di scena, i fraintendimenti, le astuzie, i ricatti, le azioni e reazioni, si fanno stringenti, mentre tirano i fili della storia, coinvolgendo i tanti personaggi presenti, ma anche quelli assenti, che lasciano dietro di sé una scia di segreti, di verità taciute e situazioni irrisolte.
"Il suo nome di battesimo era Gray, non il cognome. Ma forse era meglio non dire niente, dopo tutto. Questa cominciava a sembrare una strana notte rubata al tempo. Meglio mantenere l’anonimato."
Ma come inizia la storia? Rosalinde è in viaggio per raggiungere Caraway Court, la tenuta di campagna di Lord Lucien Danford, il conte di Stenfax, nonché promesso sposo di Celia, la sorella minore della donna. Celia insieme all’odiatissimo nonno sono già sul posto. Si tratta del loro unico parente, quello che le ha accolte quando i genitori sono morti, ma si è rivelato ben presto, un uomo crudele e privo di scrupoli, che ha riversato sulle nipoti l’odio per la figlia, tanto da crescerle come fossero merce di scambio e oggetti da barattare, per ottenere una posizione di maggiore prestigio attraverso i loro rispettivi matrimoni. Anche il fatto di farla viaggiare da sola e su una carrozza malconcia, è una delle tante vessazioni e punizioni alle quali Rosalinde è soggetta, in quanto ha commesso l’errore di ribellarsi al volere del suo tutore, per sposare un uomo che si è rivelato un approfittatore.
Ora, dopo il suo matrimonio infelice, è una giovane vedova, oggetto delle angherie del vecchio che non fa mistero di provare per lei odio e disprezzo. Una bufera di neve complica il viaggio e la donna decide di fermarsi in una locanda per passare la notte al caldo e mettere al riparo, la servitù e i cavalli. Ciò che non immagina però, è di incontrare un uomo bellissimo, seducente ed elegante, che viene attratto dalla sua bellezza, tanto da decidere di gettare alle ortiche il suo consolidato self control, per avanzare una proposta indecente, alla quale Rosalinde non saprà dire di no! Ma nulla sarà come avrebbe dovuto essere, perché il destino ha altri piani per loro, pertanto un incontro fugace, che doveva entrare a far parte dei ricordi, diventerà il loro presente!
"Santiddio, quanto era bello. Aveva un viso duro, sì, ma i suoi tratti erano ognuno di una bellezza unica. Insieme davano l’immagine di un uomo con cui non si poteva scherzare, un uomo che otteneva ciò che voleva, quando lo voleva."
Nella prima parte la passione domina le pagine, mentre accende i sensi del misterioso signor Gray e della bella Rosalinde Wilde, che dopo essersi incontrati in una situazione particolare, non potranno fare a meno di volersi ancora e ancora. Tra loro avrebbe dovuto essere un episodio isolato, una liaison peccaminosa fine a se stessa, una parentesi rubata al destino e alle loro vite, ma per uno strano scherzo del destino e per cause di forza maggiore, si trasformerà in un rapporto proibito e consumato in segreto. Una situazione incendiaria, fomentata un’attrazione bruciante che non riesce a placarsi neppure di fronte ai rischi, alle circostanze inopportune, ai comportamenti spudorati e alle consuetudini dell’epoca, che impongono la distanza e il buon senso, per non rischiare lo scandalo e tanto altro…
Ma come negare a se stessi e all’altro, il piacere e il costante richiamo della passione? Gray e Rosalinde si troveranno risucchiati in un circolo vizioso, vittime e carnefici, ed entrambi prede di un magnetismo potente e di un qualcosa di animalesco e istintivo, che infiammerà i loro corpi per poi far capitolare anche i loro cuori, nonostante la ragione imponga loro dei limiti, soprattutto quella di Gray, che dovrà scendere a patti con i muri che ha eretto attorno al suo cuore.
"Ma c’era qualcosa nelle circostanze, la stranezza di essere intrappolati insieme in quel modo, che dava al loro incontro un senso di magia. Di libertà. Come se non ci sarebbero state conseguenze se lui avesse fatto e detto esattamente ciò che desiderava."
Gray e Rosalinde avranno modo di scoprire la loro vera identità, soltanto quando le famiglie dei promessi sposi si troveranno riunite nella tenuta del conte Stenfax, due settimane prima delle nozze…sempre che Gray non riesca a impedirle! Da quel momento in poi, i protagonisti si sfideranno, arroccati su due fazioni opposte, come due nemici che, seppur languendo nella passione, lottano, uno per veder riconosciuti i suoi sospetti, mentre l’altra per aiutare la sorella a compiere il proprio destino, e non disattendere le pretese del nonno e ottenere un’informazione importante. Il vero burattinaio e manipolatore della storia è proprio il vecchio Fitzgilbert, che avido, bramoso è meschino, è intenzionato a gestisce gli accordi, tra ricatti, pressioni e minacce, che avranno nel corso degli eventi, anche gravi ripercussioni.
Ma non è soltanto lui a remare contro i sentimenti di Gray e Rosalinde, perchè entrano in gioco le paure, i timori e le errate convinzioni che trovano conferma in esperienze del passato, ma soprattutto nella consapevolezza di avere degli obblighi, dei doveri e delle responsabilità verso i propri cari. Ma sarà veramente impossibile per i protagonisti, innamorarsi e avere una storia d'amore, oppure ciò che brucia in fondo alla loro anima trova soluzione, una volta liberata la mente da inutili rigidità e pesanti condizionamenti, così come le loro vite da segreti, minacce e personaggi scomodi e pericolosi?
"Non aveva mai conosciuto nessuna come questa donna e non avrebbe mai più conosciuto nessuna che le si avvicinasse una volta che lei avesse lasciato la sua vita."
In realtà esistono molteplici fattori che entrano in gioco, complicando ulteriormente il loro rapporto, che si amplia, prende sempre più spazio, fino a trasformarsi in una gara di furbizia e di strategia, per poi crollare miseramente, su ciò che esiste di più grande e autentico: i sentimenti, che lentamente sbocciano tra chi non avrebbe mai dovuto amarsi! Si piacciono e si cercano, due sfidanti bellissimi e sensuali, che continuano a muoversi su un campo minato, che diventa l'intreccio di corpi che si desiderano, di anime che si parlano e di cuori che battono all’unisono. Così vulnerabili, ardenti e astuti, ma altrettanto deboli e fragili, per le conseguenze e gli strascichi dei loro rispettivi trascorsi.
Perché Gray si accanisce così tanto, contro un matrimonio di interesse anche se era una consuetudine all’epoca? Il fulcro di tutto è la parola “protezione” in quanto sarà proprio l’istinto protettivo che entrambi hanno sviluppato nei confronti dei loro rispettivi fratelli a renderli antagonisti. Ma nel momento in cui la trama ben architettata, si stravolge del tutto, sotto l’effetto di un susseguirsi di colpi di scena e cambi di rotta, saranno obbligati a prendere l’unica decisione possibile e… con tutte le conseguenze del caso!
"Lei conosceva quello sguardo. Lo sguardo che parlava di un desiderio che non si era mai aspettata. Di una sintonia che entrambi sostenevano essere rubata, e che tuttavia le dava la sensazione di casa."
Ma lascio a voi il piacere di rivelare ogni dettaglio, perché si tratta di un romanzo talmente ben scritto, ricco di intrecci e cambi di rotta, che merita di essere scoperto solo attraverso la lettura! Un'ottima prova per un'autrice che si avvale di uno stile narrativo sicuro, efficace, scorrevole e coinvolgente, che ha trovato nelle traduzioni di Isabella Nanni, una corrispondenza espressiva che ne esalta il valore. Ora non vedo l’ora di leggere la storia di Celia… Oppure il prossimo protagonista sarà Lucien, il conte e fratello di Gray? Nell'attea vi saluto, dandovi appuntamento alla prossima recensione! Buona lettura e a presto!
Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano
Buongiorno amiche lettrici!
Oggi desidero parlarvi del primo volume di una nuova serie di romanzi storici, frutto della penna e della fantasia di Jess Michaels, un’autrice bestseller di USA Today, che ha all’attivo diverse pubblicazioni. Sono storie caratterizzate da una sfumatura piuttosto piccante e ardente, che si inserisce in maniera armonica all’interno di trame decisamente accattivanti e godibili, dove non manca mai una traccia di suspense e intrigo, che riescono a dare forma a una miscela avvincente che si sviluppa tra passione, segreti, omissioni, colpi di scena, intoppi e rivelazioni. Questa volta a mio giudizio, la Michaels si è superata! In prima battuta, la storia potrebbe sembrare un qualcosa di già visto, sotto la spinta dei più consolidati e amati clichè, ma andando avanti con la lettura gli intrecci diventano talmente complessi e ben strutturati, da rendere il romanzo molto coinvolgente e interessante. Per alcuni versi mi ha ricordato una “commedia degli equivoci”, dove i colpi di scena, i fraintendimenti, le astuzie, i ricatti, le azioni e reazioni, si fanno stringenti, mentre tirano i fili della storia, coinvolgendo i tanti personaggi presenti, ma anche quelli assenti, che lasciano dietro di sé una scia di segreti, di verità taciute e situazioni irrisolte.
"Il suo nome di battesimo era Gray, non il cognome. Ma forse era meglio non dire niente, dopo tutto. Questa cominciava a sembrare una strana notte rubata al tempo. Meglio mantenere l’anonimato."
Ma come inizia la storia? Rosalinde è in viaggio per raggiungere Caraway Court, la tenuta di campagna di Lord Lucien Danford, il conte di Stenfax, nonché promesso sposo di Celia, la sorella minore della donna. Celia insieme all’odiatissimo nonno sono già sul posto. Si tratta del loro unico parente, quello che le ha accolte quando i genitori sono morti, ma si è rivelato ben presto, un uomo crudele e privo di scrupoli, che ha riversato sulle nipoti l’odio per la figlia, tanto da crescerle come fossero merce di scambio e oggetti da barattare, per ottenere una posizione di maggiore prestigio attraverso i loro rispettivi matrimoni. Anche il fatto di farla viaggiare da sola e su una carrozza malconcia, è una delle tante vessazioni e punizioni alle quali Rosalinde è soggetta, in quanto ha commesso l’errore di ribellarsi al volere del suo tutore, per sposare un uomo che si è rivelato un approfittatore.
Ora, dopo il suo matrimonio infelice, è una giovane vedova, oggetto delle angherie del vecchio che non fa mistero di provare per lei odio e disprezzo. Una bufera di neve complica il viaggio e la donna decide di fermarsi in una locanda per passare la notte al caldo e mettere al riparo, la servitù e i cavalli. Ciò che non immagina però, è di incontrare un uomo bellissimo, seducente ed elegante, che viene attratto dalla sua bellezza, tanto da decidere di gettare alle ortiche il suo consolidato self control, per avanzare una proposta indecente, alla quale Rosalinde non saprà dire di no! Ma nulla sarà come avrebbe dovuto essere, perché il destino ha altri piani per loro, pertanto un incontro fugace, che doveva entrare a far parte dei ricordi, diventerà il loro presente!
"Santiddio, quanto era bello. Aveva un viso duro, sì, ma i suoi tratti erano ognuno di una bellezza unica. Insieme davano l’immagine di un uomo con cui non si poteva scherzare, un uomo che otteneva ciò che voleva, quando lo voleva."
Nella prima parte la passione domina le pagine, mentre accende i sensi del misterioso signor Gray e della bella Rosalinde Wilde, che dopo essersi incontrati in una situazione particolare, non potranno fare a meno di volersi ancora e ancora. Tra loro avrebbe dovuto essere un episodio isolato, una liaison peccaminosa fine a se stessa, una parentesi rubata al destino e alle loro vite, ma per uno strano scherzo del destino e per cause di forza maggiore, si trasformerà in un rapporto proibito e consumato in segreto. Una situazione incendiaria, fomentata un’attrazione bruciante che non riesce a placarsi neppure di fronte ai rischi, alle circostanze inopportune, ai comportamenti spudorati e alle consuetudini dell’epoca, che impongono la distanza e il buon senso, per non rischiare lo scandalo e tanto altro…
Ma come negare a se stessi e all’altro, il piacere e il costante richiamo della passione? Gray e Rosalinde si troveranno risucchiati in un circolo vizioso, vittime e carnefici, ed entrambi prede di un magnetismo potente e di un qualcosa di animalesco e istintivo, che infiammerà i loro corpi per poi far capitolare anche i loro cuori, nonostante la ragione imponga loro dei limiti, soprattutto quella di Gray, che dovrà scendere a patti con i muri che ha eretto attorno al suo cuore.
"Ma c’era qualcosa nelle circostanze, la stranezza di essere intrappolati insieme in quel modo, che dava al loro incontro un senso di magia. Di libertà. Come se non ci sarebbero state conseguenze se lui avesse fatto e detto esattamente ciò che desiderava."
Gray e Rosalinde avranno modo di scoprire la loro vera identità, soltanto quando le famiglie dei promessi sposi si troveranno riunite nella tenuta del conte Stenfax, due settimane prima delle nozze…sempre che Gray non riesca a impedirle! Da quel momento in poi, i protagonisti si sfideranno, arroccati su due fazioni opposte, come due nemici che, seppur languendo nella passione, lottano, uno per veder riconosciuti i suoi sospetti, mentre l’altra per aiutare la sorella a compiere il proprio destino, e non disattendere le pretese del nonno e ottenere un’informazione importante. Il vero burattinaio e manipolatore della storia è proprio il vecchio Fitzgilbert, che avido, bramoso è meschino, è intenzionato a gestisce gli accordi, tra ricatti, pressioni e minacce, che avranno nel corso degli eventi, anche gravi ripercussioni.
Ma non è soltanto lui a remare contro i sentimenti di Gray e Rosalinde, perchè entrano in gioco le paure, i timori e le errate convinzioni che trovano conferma in esperienze del passato, ma soprattutto nella consapevolezza di avere degli obblighi, dei doveri e delle responsabilità verso i propri cari. Ma sarà veramente impossibile per i protagonisti, innamorarsi e avere una storia d'amore, oppure ciò che brucia in fondo alla loro anima trova soluzione, una volta liberata la mente da inutili rigidità e pesanti condizionamenti, così come le loro vite da segreti, minacce e personaggi scomodi e pericolosi?
"Non aveva mai conosciuto nessuna come questa donna e non avrebbe mai più conosciuto nessuna che le si avvicinasse una volta che lei avesse lasciato la sua vita."
In realtà esistono molteplici fattori che entrano in gioco, complicando ulteriormente il loro rapporto, che si amplia, prende sempre più spazio, fino a trasformarsi in una gara di furbizia e di strategia, per poi crollare miseramente, su ciò che esiste di più grande e autentico: i sentimenti, che lentamente sbocciano tra chi non avrebbe mai dovuto amarsi! Si piacciono e si cercano, due sfidanti bellissimi e sensuali, che continuano a muoversi su un campo minato, che diventa l'intreccio di corpi che si desiderano, di anime che si parlano e di cuori che battono all’unisono. Così vulnerabili, ardenti e astuti, ma altrettanto deboli e fragili, per le conseguenze e gli strascichi dei loro rispettivi trascorsi.
Perché Gray si accanisce così tanto, contro un matrimonio di interesse anche se era una consuetudine all’epoca? Il fulcro di tutto è la parola “protezione” in quanto sarà proprio l’istinto protettivo che entrambi hanno sviluppato nei confronti dei loro rispettivi fratelli a renderli antagonisti. Ma nel momento in cui la trama ben architettata, si stravolge del tutto, sotto l’effetto di un susseguirsi di colpi di scena e cambi di rotta, saranno obbligati a prendere l’unica decisione possibile e… con tutte le conseguenze del caso!
"Lei conosceva quello sguardo. Lo sguardo che parlava di un desiderio che non si era mai aspettata. Di una sintonia che entrambi sostenevano essere rubata, e che tuttavia le dava la sensazione di casa."
Ma lascio a voi il piacere di rivelare ogni dettaglio, perché si tratta di un romanzo talmente ben scritto, ricco di intrecci e cambi di rotta, che merita di essere scoperto solo attraverso la lettura! Un'ottima prova per un'autrice che si avvale di uno stile narrativo sicuro, efficace, scorrevole e coinvolgente, che ha trovato nelle traduzioni di Isabella Nanni, una corrispondenza espressiva che ne esalta il valore. Ora non vedo l’ora di leggere la storia di Celia… Oppure il prossimo protagonista sarà Lucien, il conte e fratello di Gray? Nell'attea vi saluto, dandovi appuntamento alla prossima recensione! Buona lettura e a presto!
Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano
July 12, 2016
"'This isn't going to be quick, Mrs. Wilde,' he assured her between kisses that tasted her skin. 'It isn't going to be perfunctory.'
She shuddered and leaned back against his chest. 'What will it be then?'
He lifted his fingers to the top button of her gown and unfastened it, letting his fingers slide into the gap he'd created.
'A night to remember,' he vowed. 'For both of us.'"
FINAL DECISION: I very much enjoyed this book of these two people who are on opposite sides of their siblings upcoming marriage. I thought the story and connection between the characters was good and I found their story sweet if a bit simplistic in its resolution.
THE STORY: Mrs. Rosalinde Wilde is a widow traveling on her way to her sister's wedding when a snowstorm forces her to stop at an inn. There she meets Grayson Danford. The two end up having dinner together in the crowded inn and then decide to spend the night together -- two people attracted to one another knowing almost nothing about one another. A night of passion out of time. How surprised they are to discover one another again as siblings of the couple getting married where Gray is determined to stop the wedding.
OPINION: AN AFFAIR IN WINTER is the start of a new series, and I think this series has great potential. This book begins with a 19th century one night stand between the hero and heroine. Although the night is special for both of them, they part in the morning never intending on seeing one another again. Of course, they end up being siblings to a couple getting married. The two are placed in opposition as Rosalinde supports the marriage, while Gray is opposed.
The one night stand, of course, complicates what would have been a pure adversarial relationship between Rosalinde and Gray. I loved that these two are so likeable when the events easily could have led either of them into being conniving and betraying any possible relationship between them. Everything between them ends up being handled in such a reasonable and deft manner, that I never moved from my initial liking of the characters.
Rosalinde is recovering from a bad marriage, but she never loses her optimism and her belief in the joy and love of life. And despite a love match gone wrong in her own life, Rosalinde wants love and happiness for her sister. Gray is determined to avoid love after seeing both of his siblings suffer because of bad relationships. He cannot resist Rosalinde despite his resolution. Both are incredibly loving siblings (even when they are wrong) and this essential characteristic gives these two a foundation that connects them in unexpected ways.
Even when they are at cross-purposes, there is an essential element of caring that keeps them from being torn apart. I thought that their evolution of their viewpoints of their sibling upcoming marriage was amusing but also represents their intelligence and the complexity of the situation. The ultimate lesson is that people should be free to make their own choices having all relevant information.
The connection between Gray and Rosalinde is hot and intense -- even in proper society dress. I really only had one complaint and that is that the solution to all the dilemmas seemed too simple and didn't necessary convince me completely. Despite that, however, I enjoyed this book and look forward to future books in the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: Oh, now I really want to read Gray's brother's story. I think that is going to be an angst filled one.
CONNECTED BOOKS: AN AFFAIR IN WINTER is the first book in the Seasons series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
She shuddered and leaned back against his chest. 'What will it be then?'
He lifted his fingers to the top button of her gown and unfastened it, letting his fingers slide into the gap he'd created.
'A night to remember,' he vowed. 'For both of us.'"
FINAL DECISION: I very much enjoyed this book of these two people who are on opposite sides of their siblings upcoming marriage. I thought the story and connection between the characters was good and I found their story sweet if a bit simplistic in its resolution.
THE STORY: Mrs. Rosalinde Wilde is a widow traveling on her way to her sister's wedding when a snowstorm forces her to stop at an inn. There she meets Grayson Danford. The two end up having dinner together in the crowded inn and then decide to spend the night together -- two people attracted to one another knowing almost nothing about one another. A night of passion out of time. How surprised they are to discover one another again as siblings of the couple getting married where Gray is determined to stop the wedding.
OPINION: AN AFFAIR IN WINTER is the start of a new series, and I think this series has great potential. This book begins with a 19th century one night stand between the hero and heroine. Although the night is special for both of them, they part in the morning never intending on seeing one another again. Of course, they end up being siblings to a couple getting married. The two are placed in opposition as Rosalinde supports the marriage, while Gray is opposed.
The one night stand, of course, complicates what would have been a pure adversarial relationship between Rosalinde and Gray. I loved that these two are so likeable when the events easily could have led either of them into being conniving and betraying any possible relationship between them. Everything between them ends up being handled in such a reasonable and deft manner, that I never moved from my initial liking of the characters.
Rosalinde is recovering from a bad marriage, but she never loses her optimism and her belief in the joy and love of life. And despite a love match gone wrong in her own life, Rosalinde wants love and happiness for her sister. Gray is determined to avoid love after seeing both of his siblings suffer because of bad relationships. He cannot resist Rosalinde despite his resolution. Both are incredibly loving siblings (even when they are wrong) and this essential characteristic gives these two a foundation that connects them in unexpected ways.
Even when they are at cross-purposes, there is an essential element of caring that keeps them from being torn apart. I thought that their evolution of their viewpoints of their sibling upcoming marriage was amusing but also represents their intelligence and the complexity of the situation. The ultimate lesson is that people should be free to make their own choices having all relevant information.
The connection between Gray and Rosalinde is hot and intense -- even in proper society dress. I really only had one complaint and that is that the solution to all the dilemmas seemed too simple and didn't necessary convince me completely. Despite that, however, I enjoyed this book and look forward to future books in the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: Oh, now I really want to read Gray's brother's story. I think that is going to be an angst filled one.
CONNECTED BOOKS: AN AFFAIR IN WINTER is the first book in the Seasons series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
June 25, 2016
**I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
4.5 star
I really enjoyed this story - I LOVED Gray - he is not perfect, but he is wonderful. He loves his family and will do anything to protect them, even when they don't think they need protection.
Gray is bound and determined to break up his brother's engagement to a "title grabber" , his brother has been hurt before by such a woman and Gray doesn't want him to go through that type of pain again. Now, I had a hard time with this, it just didn't make sense to me - when his brother was engaged before, he was in love with Elise and she left him for a Duke with more money - she refused to see him and broke his heart. Celia is his new fiancé and has not been anything but up front with Lucien (Gray's brother, the Earl) - she wants a title in exchange for her dowry. There is no emotion between them and no deception. I don't know exactly how Gray thinks she is going to hurt Lucien and I was bewildered by Gray's determination to paint Celia as an evil woman set on destroying his brother.
Aside from that - I really liked the book. Rosalinde is a great heroine - Ms. Michaels was able to convey in words all the emotion that Rosalinde was capable of. Rosalinde is such a giving, loving and generous person, you can't help but like her. She loves her sister and feels guilty for her past actions, which she believes have made her sister agree to marry the Earl.
Rosalinde and Gray meet at an inn and share a night of incredible passion (still fanning myself!) and separate the next day, thinking that they will never cross paths again.
Imagine the surprise they both share when they see each other the next day at the Earl's home! Gray is angry and believes that Rosalinde deceived him (the man has trust issues) and Rosalinde is upset and confused by his cold reception of her. When they finally talk and Gray tells her that he doesn't want his brother and her sister to marry - she is angry and even more determined to make sure they do.
These two dance around each other and try to ignore the connection they feel - Gray is still set on "saving" his brother and he knows he must stay away from Rosalinde - but he can't.
Days before the wedding, a major twist changes everything and these two both do a complete about face in their thinking. This twist changes everything for Gray and Rosalinde and I have to give props to Ms. Michaels for pulling it off perfectly.
This book is well written, flows nicely, has secrets galore, has great secondary characters, super STEAMY/HOT love scenes, a villainous family member and finally a sweet HEA.
I did have a problem with incorrect usage of formal address - but as this is a ARC, I am hoping that those will be resolved before publication and won't address them in this review. **Update 6/25/16 - this is no longer an issue - the incorrect usage was fixed by the author + 1/2 star in my review
I would happily recommend this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series!
4.5 star
I really enjoyed this story - I LOVED Gray - he is not perfect, but he is wonderful. He loves his family and will do anything to protect them, even when they don't think they need protection.
Gray is bound and determined to break up his brother's engagement to a "title grabber" , his brother has been hurt before by such a woman and Gray doesn't want him to go through that type of pain again. Now, I had a hard time with this, it just didn't make sense to me - when his brother was engaged before, he was in love with Elise and she left him for a Duke with more money - she refused to see him and broke his heart. Celia is his new fiancé and has not been anything but up front with Lucien (Gray's brother, the Earl) - she wants a title in exchange for her dowry. There is no emotion between them and no deception. I don't know exactly how Gray thinks she is going to hurt Lucien and I was bewildered by Gray's determination to paint Celia as an evil woman set on destroying his brother.
Aside from that - I really liked the book. Rosalinde is a great heroine - Ms. Michaels was able to convey in words all the emotion that Rosalinde was capable of. Rosalinde is such a giving, loving and generous person, you can't help but like her. She loves her sister and feels guilty for her past actions, which she believes have made her sister agree to marry the Earl.
Rosalinde and Gray meet at an inn and share a night of incredible passion (still fanning myself!) and separate the next day, thinking that they will never cross paths again.
Imagine the surprise they both share when they see each other the next day at the Earl's home! Gray is angry and believes that Rosalinde deceived him (the man has trust issues) and Rosalinde is upset and confused by his cold reception of her. When they finally talk and Gray tells her that he doesn't want his brother and her sister to marry - she is angry and even more determined to make sure they do.
These two dance around each other and try to ignore the connection they feel - Gray is still set on "saving" his brother and he knows he must stay away from Rosalinde - but he can't.
Days before the wedding, a major twist changes everything and these two both do a complete about face in their thinking. This twist changes everything for Gray and Rosalinde and I have to give props to Ms. Michaels for pulling it off perfectly.
This book is well written, flows nicely, has secrets galore, has great secondary characters, super STEAMY/HOT love scenes, a villainous family member and finally a sweet HEA.
I did have a problem with incorrect usage of formal address - but as this is a ARC, I am hoping that those will be resolved before publication and won't address them in this review. **Update 6/25/16 - this is no longer an issue - the incorrect usage was fixed by the author + 1/2 star in my review
I would happily recommend this book and am looking forward to the rest of the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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