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Blind Date Collection
A TIMELESS ROMANCE ANTHOLOGY: BLIND DATE COLLECTION: Featuring New York Times bestselling author Victorine E. Lieske. Readers will love this collection of six novellas—three contemporary and three historical—all with one thing in common: Romance.
Three Historical Romance Novellas:
THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, by Annette Lyon: After the death of Sue Ellen, the closest thing she has to family, Katy knows it’s time to leave the house she’s lived in as a guest and start over in the city. She quickly secures a job, but before leaving, she must honor the unusual promise she made to Sue Ellen on her deathbed: meet with Mr. Balmer. The elderly gentleman arranges for his grandson Barrett to escort her to a town dance. That evening, shy Katy quickly feels at ease with her partner. If her new position weren’t taking her from town morning after next, perhaps something could develop between them. But Barrett may not feel the same about her, and besides, they don't have enough time to find out.
A LADY OF SENSE, by Sarah M. Eden: Eleanor Sherwood has lived her entire life under her parents’ thumb with little hope of escape. When they choose the unbearable Mr. Broadstead to be her future husband, she begs her father for another option. He arranges for her to meet Peter Havensham, who quickly proves himself a good and kindhearted gentleman, completely different from Mr. Broadstead, and utterly undeserving of a forced engagement. Eleanor cannot bring herself to prey upon Peter’s honor, but neither can she imagine a life with Mr. Broadstead. What is a lady to do when faced with such an impossible choice?
A SECOND CHANCE, by Heather B. Moore: Virginia needs a new start in order to recover from her broken marriage and vicious gossips of her neighborhood in Boston, so when her best friend Millie invites Virginia to Chicago, she goes to live with her friend’s family. But when Millie asked Virginia to participate in a double-date, Virginia knows she’s not ready to start dating again. Reluctantly she agrees, only to find out that Max might just be the man who can repair the cracks in her heart.
Three Contemporary Romance Novellas:
BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE, by Victorine E. Lieske. When Braelynn agrees to go on a blind date, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. Tyler is gorgeous and the perfect gentleman. Of course she should have known it was too good to be true. It turns out that Tyler really wasn’t Tyler, but a random stranger who went along with Braelynn’s mistaken assumption. So, she chalks it up to a dumb mistake until she gets to work Monday morning and discovers that her gorgeous blind date is now her new boss.
BIANCA’S HOPE, by Rachel Branton: A blind-date-gone-wrong is not the way Bianca would have chosen to celebrate the news that she might be losing her business, but saying no to the sister who took care of her after their mother’s death proves impossible. So for one date, one torturous evening, she’ll endure the company of an infuriating, heartless man she has no intention of ever seeing again. She doesn’t expect her heart to have other plans. Bianca soon learns that sometimes the unexpected is not only what you need, it’s exactly what you’ve been waiting for all along.
BLIND SPOT, by Sariah Wilson: Ria has prepared most of her life to meet her prince, trouble is, her mother keeps yanking her back to reality. So when Ria reads about a country teeming with princes, she drops everything and applies to grad school. But every blind date goes wrong, and while Ria commiserates with her roommate Tessa and Tessa’s totally un-prince-like brother Paolo, Ria discovers that all the things she thought she wanted in a man are far from what she really needs.
Three Historical Romance Novellas:
THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, by Annette Lyon: After the death of Sue Ellen, the closest thing she has to family, Katy knows it’s time to leave the house she’s lived in as a guest and start over in the city. She quickly secures a job, but before leaving, she must honor the unusual promise she made to Sue Ellen on her deathbed: meet with Mr. Balmer. The elderly gentleman arranges for his grandson Barrett to escort her to a town dance. That evening, shy Katy quickly feels at ease with her partner. If her new position weren’t taking her from town morning after next, perhaps something could develop between them. But Barrett may not feel the same about her, and besides, they don't have enough time to find out.
A LADY OF SENSE, by Sarah M. Eden: Eleanor Sherwood has lived her entire life under her parents’ thumb with little hope of escape. When they choose the unbearable Mr. Broadstead to be her future husband, she begs her father for another option. He arranges for her to meet Peter Havensham, who quickly proves himself a good and kindhearted gentleman, completely different from Mr. Broadstead, and utterly undeserving of a forced engagement. Eleanor cannot bring herself to prey upon Peter’s honor, but neither can she imagine a life with Mr. Broadstead. What is a lady to do when faced with such an impossible choice?
A SECOND CHANCE, by Heather B. Moore: Virginia needs a new start in order to recover from her broken marriage and vicious gossips of her neighborhood in Boston, so when her best friend Millie invites Virginia to Chicago, she goes to live with her friend’s family. But when Millie asked Virginia to participate in a double-date, Virginia knows she’s not ready to start dating again. Reluctantly she agrees, only to find out that Max might just be the man who can repair the cracks in her heart.
Three Contemporary Romance Novellas:
BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE, by Victorine E. Lieske. When Braelynn agrees to go on a blind date, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. Tyler is gorgeous and the perfect gentleman. Of course she should have known it was too good to be true. It turns out that Tyler really wasn’t Tyler, but a random stranger who went along with Braelynn’s mistaken assumption. So, she chalks it up to a dumb mistake until she gets to work Monday morning and discovers that her gorgeous blind date is now her new boss.
BIANCA’S HOPE, by Rachel Branton: A blind-date-gone-wrong is not the way Bianca would have chosen to celebrate the news that she might be losing her business, but saying no to the sister who took care of her after their mother’s death proves impossible. So for one date, one torturous evening, she’ll endure the company of an infuriating, heartless man she has no intention of ever seeing again. She doesn’t expect her heart to have other plans. Bianca soon learns that sometimes the unexpected is not only what you need, it’s exactly what you’ve been waiting for all along.
BLIND SPOT, by Sariah Wilson: Ria has prepared most of her life to meet her prince, trouble is, her mother keeps yanking her back to reality. So when Ria reads about a country teeming with princes, she drops everything and applies to grad school. But every blind date goes wrong, and while Ria commiserates with her roommate Tessa and Tessa’s totally un-prince-like brother Paolo, Ria discovers that all the things she thought she wanted in a man are far from what she really needs.
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2016
128 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Annette Lyon
81 books307 followersAnnette Lyon is a USA Today bestselling author, an 9-time recipient of Utah’s Best in State medal for fiction (three times for novel-length works and five times for short fiction), and a Whitney Award winner for BAND OF SISTERS. She's the author of over a dozen novels, at least that many novellas, a cookbook, a popular grammar guide, and over a hundred magazine articles.
She’s a founder and regular contributor of the Timeless Romance Anthologies line of sweet romance stories, which she served as editor for its first three years. She's also one of the four co-authors of The Newport Ladies Book Club series. She graduated cum laude from BYU with a degree in English.
Annette is represented by Jill Marsal of the Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Her first suspense novel, Just One More, releases 2023 through Scarlet Suspense.
She’s a founder and regular contributor of the Timeless Romance Anthologies line of sweet romance stories, which she served as editor for its first three years. She's also one of the four co-authors of The Newport Ladies Book Club series. She graduated cum laude from BYU with a degree in English.
Annette is represented by Jill Marsal of the Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Her first suspense novel, Just One More, releases 2023 through Scarlet Suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
September 13, 2016
This book is the perfect set up for me. First, these are some of my most favorite authors and having a book where they all have a story is like getting everything you want for Christmas. And it's not even Christmas! Then, there are three historical novellas, and three contemporary! I love that!
I really enjoyed every single novella in this book. What a fun theme with the blind dates! This was so hard to put it down when interrupted by real life things. This book just made me happy.
Today is release day for this book so go grab a copy and enjoy!
Content: Clean
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed every single novella in this book. What a fun theme with the blind dates! This was so hard to put it down when interrupted by real life things. This book just made me happy.
Today is release day for this book so go grab a copy and enjoy!
Content: Clean
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 21, 2016
I love these collections because a common theme results in so many fun stories and it's exciting to see where each author will take it. Blind Dates. Some are amazing and others, not so much. It was so much fun to see how they turned out for each of these characters.
THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID:
I can't imagine being alone in the world and having to imposed on the kindness and generosity of others to survive, but that's just the situation that Katy finds herself in. A deathbed request from a close friend, leads her to meeting Barrett. I love the gentle, tender story that develops, as this couple gets to know each other and as they each analyze their feelings. This is a very sweet story and is a great start to the book!
A LADY OF SENSE:
I was very curious to know how in the world a blind date could possibly come about during the Regency period, but Ms. Eden delivered! This story is slightly humorous and so much fun. I love the "ultimatum," of sorts, that Eleanor's father gives her and the way she finally comes to her decision. These are great characters, with vividly descriptive personalities. This book hit the spot!
A SECOND CHANCE:
This story is a bit scandalous, considering that Virginia is newly divorced and escaping to her friend's home to recover. Almost being tricked into a date, she finds herself more ready to move on than she thought. I really liked Virginia. Not only is she very dedicated to her young son, but she's very determined not to mess up again. She clearly has trust issues, but she's knows when to act and does so.
BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE:
Am I the only one who thinks this is the ultimate horror story for a blind date? I used to be nervous that I'd meet the "wrong" guy if I didn't know who it was that I was supposed to date. I couldn't help but laugh at the antics that happened throughout this story and I was mildly horrified at the work situation. This is a fun story to read, be embarrassed about, and to cheer the characters on.
BIANCA’S HOPE:
Not all blind dates start out with an instant dislike, but this one does. I read the book that this story spins off from, so it was fun to revisit these characters, although it can stand alone. I love how the story shows that first impressions aren't always all that.
BLIND SPOT:
You had me at "prince." Ria goes overseas for school, determined to meet a prince, but is caught off guard when she meets Paolo instead. When she is stood up for her blind date, Paolo comes to the rescue and the story firmly plants itself into my heart at that exact moment and only solidifies my feelings from there. This is a great story with fun, unique characters. What a perfect way to end this collection!
Content: all have mild romantic elements. Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID:
I can't imagine being alone in the world and having to imposed on the kindness and generosity of others to survive, but that's just the situation that Katy finds herself in. A deathbed request from a close friend, leads her to meeting Barrett. I love the gentle, tender story that develops, as this couple gets to know each other and as they each analyze their feelings. This is a very sweet story and is a great start to the book!
A LADY OF SENSE:
I was very curious to know how in the world a blind date could possibly come about during the Regency period, but Ms. Eden delivered! This story is slightly humorous and so much fun. I love the "ultimatum," of sorts, that Eleanor's father gives her and the way she finally comes to her decision. These are great characters, with vividly descriptive personalities. This book hit the spot!
A SECOND CHANCE:
This story is a bit scandalous, considering that Virginia is newly divorced and escaping to her friend's home to recover. Almost being tricked into a date, she finds herself more ready to move on than she thought. I really liked Virginia. Not only is she very dedicated to her young son, but she's very determined not to mess up again. She clearly has trust issues, but she's knows when to act and does so.
BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE:
Am I the only one who thinks this is the ultimate horror story for a blind date? I used to be nervous that I'd meet the "wrong" guy if I didn't know who it was that I was supposed to date. I couldn't help but laugh at the antics that happened throughout this story and I was mildly horrified at the work situation. This is a fun story to read, be embarrassed about, and to cheer the characters on.
BIANCA’S HOPE:
Not all blind dates start out with an instant dislike, but this one does. I read the book that this story spins off from, so it was fun to revisit these characters, although it can stand alone. I love how the story shows that first impressions aren't always all that.
BLIND SPOT:
You had me at "prince." Ria goes overseas for school, determined to meet a prince, but is caught off guard when she meets Paolo instead. When she is stood up for her blind date, Paolo comes to the rescue and the story firmly plants itself into my heart at that exact moment and only solidifies my feelings from there. This is a great story with fun, unique characters. What a perfect way to end this collection!
Content: all have mild romantic elements. Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
September 27, 2016
*Full Review*
Overall I give it 5 stars. There were a couple stories that I would give 4 stars to but seriously another great collection to the timeless romance anthology line!! You can't go wrong with any of them. Great clean romance and comedy! I'm so so so glad these authors came together and created this idea. They are authors that I love and I love that they have guest authors included in the collection to help us readers discover more amazing authors!
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Ok it has been a week or so since I read this book and wrote my initial blurb about my thoughts. Time has flown by and life has been super busy that I didn't get to my computer to write up these reviews. I'm actually skimming through each story to remind myself all the little points that I wanted to touch on in my review. First off I have to say that I absolutely loved that in this Blind Date Collection we get three historical novellas and three contemporary novellas. Loved that!!! They were all really well written and for the most part I really liked them all.
Now you might be wondering how you can have a blind date in a historical novella, but I tell you it worked. It may not be a traditional blind date but the premise of a blind date is being set up and meeting someone you never knew before. So looking at it that way the historical blind dates were pretty fun and not too different than society life anyway and trying to match couples or set up arranged marriages. Also, even though they were novellas the length still gave plenty of time to set up the story and leave you fulfilled, feeling like you had connected well with the characters. I always say this in the anthology reviews, but I'm going to say it again, I would love to see these novellas lengthened. They're satisfying enough but some of them are so well done that you love the characters, you love the storyline that you just want it to continue a little longer.
Several of the stories have a sad feel to them to begin with and I think that really helps you feel for the characters. Too many blind dates, or bad breakups, or hard home lives that they aren't wanting to be set up with anyone and are ready to just move on with life. Yet, these are HEAs so we know that they're going to meet someone great and have a successful blind date.
In order of my absolute favorite first for contemporaries, Blind Spot(ahhhh I need to go read the other novels connected with this one), Braelynn's Blind Date and then Bianca's Hope(which I feel like I've read this exact book somewhere before but when I searched I couldn't find it-anybody else feel that way?). In order of my absolute favorite first for historicals, A Second Chance, A Lady of Sense and The Promise That Katy Did.
I really enjoyed them all. They were all unique storylines, witty, emotional and they all had great characters.
As far as content and from what I can remember I would say that they were all clean reads.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Happy Reading!!!
Overall I give it 5 stars. There were a couple stories that I would give 4 stars to but seriously another great collection to the timeless romance anthology line!! You can't go wrong with any of them. Great clean romance and comedy! I'm so so so glad these authors came together and created this idea. They are authors that I love and I love that they have guest authors included in the collection to help us readers discover more amazing authors!
-----------------------------------------------
Ok it has been a week or so since I read this book and wrote my initial blurb about my thoughts. Time has flown by and life has been super busy that I didn't get to my computer to write up these reviews. I'm actually skimming through each story to remind myself all the little points that I wanted to touch on in my review. First off I have to say that I absolutely loved that in this Blind Date Collection we get three historical novellas and three contemporary novellas. Loved that!!! They were all really well written and for the most part I really liked them all.
Now you might be wondering how you can have a blind date in a historical novella, but I tell you it worked. It may not be a traditional blind date but the premise of a blind date is being set up and meeting someone you never knew before. So looking at it that way the historical blind dates were pretty fun and not too different than society life anyway and trying to match couples or set up arranged marriages. Also, even though they were novellas the length still gave plenty of time to set up the story and leave you fulfilled, feeling like you had connected well with the characters. I always say this in the anthology reviews, but I'm going to say it again, I would love to see these novellas lengthened. They're satisfying enough but some of them are so well done that you love the characters, you love the storyline that you just want it to continue a little longer.
Several of the stories have a sad feel to them to begin with and I think that really helps you feel for the characters. Too many blind dates, or bad breakups, or hard home lives that they aren't wanting to be set up with anyone and are ready to just move on with life. Yet, these are HEAs so we know that they're going to meet someone great and have a successful blind date.
In order of my absolute favorite first for contemporaries, Blind Spot(ahhhh I need to go read the other novels connected with this one), Braelynn's Blind Date and then Bianca's Hope(which I feel like I've read this exact book somewhere before but when I searched I couldn't find it-anybody else feel that way?). In order of my absolute favorite first for historicals, A Second Chance, A Lady of Sense and The Promise That Katy Did.
I really enjoyed them all. They were all unique storylines, witty, emotional and they all had great characters.
As far as content and from what I can remember I would say that they were all clean reads.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Happy Reading!!!
September 1, 2016
Blind Date Collection
This collection of stories ranges from historical to modern-day fiction. All of them have in common that the couples meet through dates that were arranged for them -either by accident, through known acquaintances, or by other means. All are engaging stories with likeable characters and clean romance. I was thrilled to find some of my favourite authors featured here as well as some I wasn't as familiar with. Here's a brief review of some of my favourites:
Braelynn's Blind Date by Victorine Lieske:
-Loved it! So romantic and sweet! I got goosebumps reading it. I love EVERYTHING Victorine writes. She's simply amazing. 5 stars!
Sariah Wilson's Blind Spot:
-So romantic, I thought I would melt! And in true Sariah style, so funny! Absolutely favourite lines from Sariah Wilson's story:
"Does he deliver puppies and fart rainbows, too? Too good to be true."
I laughed so hard, I snorted! I love ANYTHING Sariah Wilson writes! She's an absolute genius when it comes to writing. And the fact that she wrote about Monterra (her famous series)? Fabulous! 5 stars!
Bianca's Hope -Rachel Branton
-Ooh! That first kiss! Niiiice! Cute story with a very different storyline. It was fun. I enjoyed it.
This collection of stories ranges from historical to modern-day fiction. All of them have in common that the couples meet through dates that were arranged for them -either by accident, through known acquaintances, or by other means. All are engaging stories with likeable characters and clean romance. I was thrilled to find some of my favourite authors featured here as well as some I wasn't as familiar with. Here's a brief review of some of my favourites:
Braelynn's Blind Date by Victorine Lieske:
-Loved it! So romantic and sweet! I got goosebumps reading it. I love EVERYTHING Victorine writes. She's simply amazing. 5 stars!
Sariah Wilson's Blind Spot:
-So romantic, I thought I would melt! And in true Sariah style, so funny! Absolutely favourite lines from Sariah Wilson's story:
"Does he deliver puppies and fart rainbows, too? Too good to be true."
I laughed so hard, I snorted! I love ANYTHING Sariah Wilson writes! She's an absolute genius when it comes to writing. And the fact that she wrote about Monterra (her famous series)? Fabulous! 5 stars!
Bianca's Hope -Rachel Branton
-Ooh! That first kiss! Niiiice! Cute story with a very different storyline. It was fun. I enjoyed it.
September 8, 2016
Romance, clean
I loved this collection! This was a fun mix of period and contemporary novellas, all with a set-up in the novel. Such a varied mix of themes regarding the dates. It was interesting to see the different directions all the authors took. For me, I have to say, I enjoyed the contrasts. A few of the novellas were continuing characters in other novels written by the authors. I enjoyed reading some of the continuations of these threads. That being said, it wouldn't have been a great read without the chemistry in the pages. I enjoyed the novella "Blind Spot" the most! That one hit the mark for me personally, particularly with some of the back story from the other novels written by this author. Cute, adventurous, honest and genuine. Just loved the characters and felt their obvious attraction for each other in the writing. Both of the other 2 contemporary novellas were fun too, cute premises, and cute coming together. The 3 period novellas were all from different time periods. The h and H each had a chapter to see their points of the 'fall'. Very well done in how they were presented. Definitely have loved reading this series. I think I have started them hoping to be able to put them down and get something done, but the draw is always there to see what other delights await in the read. Genuine, honest characters that have sincere honest affections, and genuine chemistry and attraction, with hope for a HEA in each one. Love that they each opened their 'eyes' to each other and saw through the awkwardness of the initial meetings.
I was provided a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I loved this collection! This was a fun mix of period and contemporary novellas, all with a set-up in the novel. Such a varied mix of themes regarding the dates. It was interesting to see the different directions all the authors took. For me, I have to say, I enjoyed the contrasts. A few of the novellas were continuing characters in other novels written by the authors. I enjoyed reading some of the continuations of these threads. That being said, it wouldn't have been a great read without the chemistry in the pages. I enjoyed the novella "Blind Spot" the most! That one hit the mark for me personally, particularly with some of the back story from the other novels written by this author. Cute, adventurous, honest and genuine. Just loved the characters and felt their obvious attraction for each other in the writing. Both of the other 2 contemporary novellas were fun too, cute premises, and cute coming together. The 3 period novellas were all from different time periods. The h and H each had a chapter to see their points of the 'fall'. Very well done in how they were presented. Definitely have loved reading this series. I think I have started them hoping to be able to put them down and get something done, but the draw is always there to see what other delights await in the read. Genuine, honest characters that have sincere honest affections, and genuine chemistry and attraction, with hope for a HEA in each one. Love that they each opened their 'eyes' to each other and saw through the awkwardness of the initial meetings.
I was provided a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 13, 2016
I've never been on a blind date, so it was fun to live vicariously through these characters who bravely take a chance on a stranger. I especially enjoyed all three historical stories since "blind date" seems like more of a modern term, but the concept really isn't all that new. Each novella allowed the reader to quickly get to know the main characters and added a unique twist to the blind date plot. A couple of the contemporary stories were a little over the top, but I look forward to reading more by Victorine E. Lieske and it turns out I have one of her books waiting for me on my Kindle! Seriously, too many books, too little time. I think that's why I love these novella collections so much, they are the perfect quick fix during brief moments of downtime during a busy day or a great way to unwind after the kids are in bed. The Blind Date Collection is a great compilation of sweet romantic stories full of emotion and hope.
(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
January 18, 2024
I could have sworn I read this collection....but I was either mistaken or it somehow got removed from my shelves. Blind dates are a fun trope so I'm looking forward to these.
Blind Spot by Sariah Wilson
This was such a cute short story. Lots of chemistry and lightheartedness. I also liked its ties to the Monterra series Ms Wilson writes.
Blind Spot by Sariah Wilson
This was such a cute short story. Lots of chemistry and lightheartedness. I also liked its ties to the Monterra series Ms Wilson writes.
October 31, 2016
I loved the different time periods reflected in this collection! The books start off with the older novella's first. The first three are historical and lots of fun to read. I don't know if they would have called it a "blind date" during the time period, but it is the same basic idea.
All six stories center around a blind date. Some of them are good, and some are bad. (I think most of us remember blind dates!) The main point is that all of the beginnings of romance start with a blind date. Some dates are set up and some people take advantage of a bad blind date.
The only author who was new to me was Victorine E. Lieske. I really liked her contribution and look forward to reading her books in the future. The rest of the authors I am familiar with and already love their books. They did not disappoint me!
This is a good, fun, clean collection of novella's. As always, you can't go wrong with picking up a Timeless Romance Anthology. The quality and diversity of the stories are amazing!
All six stories center around a blind date. Some of them are good, and some are bad. (I think most of us remember blind dates!) The main point is that all of the beginnings of romance start with a blind date. Some dates are set up and some people take advantage of a bad blind date.
The only author who was new to me was Victorine E. Lieske. I really liked her contribution and look forward to reading her books in the future. The rest of the authors I am familiar with and already love their books. They did not disappoint me!
This is a good, fun, clean collection of novella's. As always, you can't go wrong with picking up a Timeless Romance Anthology. The quality and diversity of the stories are amazing!
September 5, 2016
I really enjoyed this collection. It's just the sort of fluffy, take-a-break-from-reality book I enjoy.
"Bianca's Hope" wasn't quite my cup of tea, but I found each of the other stories to have characters and/or plots that were sweet, inspiring, humorous, or otherwise engaging--even when they were on the outside of realistic.
Content: clean. No language or sex.
Disclaimer: I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
"Bianca's Hope" wasn't quite my cup of tea, but I found each of the other stories to have characters and/or plots that were sweet, inspiring, humorous, or otherwise engaging--even when they were on the outside of realistic.
Content: clean. No language or sex.
Disclaimer: I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2022
" 'Just tell me who she is and why you've committed me to a social event without my consent.'
'All in good time, my boy.' Grandpa gestured toward the horse and added, 'Let's get home before she falls over dead in the heat.'
Barrett flicked the reins. 'Remind me to never drive you anywhere ever again.'"
Blind Date Collection (2016, Mirror Press), 18th in the Timeless Romance Anthology series, contains three historical and three contemporary romances, each a standalone written by a different author. I looked forward to reading it because I find all of the Timeless collections to be safe, clean reads that I can fully expect to enjoy.
Rating: 4.6 stars
Narration: It's been too long for me to specifically rate the narration, but I'm sure it would have been between 4 and 5 stars.
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The Promise That Katy Did by Annette Lyon: 5 stars
From the blurb: "After the death of Sue Ellen, the closest thing she has to family, Katy knows it’s time to leave the house she’s lived in as a guest and start over in the city. She quickly secures a job, but before leaving, she must honor the unusual promise she made to Sue Ellen on her deathbed: meet with Mr. Balmer..."
I really enjoyed this story. It was very, very sweet! The author did a nice job of dodging the insta-love bullet while still forging a convincing connection between the main characters.
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A Lady of Sense by Sarah M. Eden: 5 stars
From the blurb: " Eleanor Sherwood has lived her entire life under her parents’ thumb with little hope of escape. When they choose the unbearable Mr. Broadstead to be her future husband, she begs her father for another option. He arranges for her to meet Peter Havensham..."
Characters with character! Specifically, integrity. I suspect this is a trademark of Sarah M. Eden, though I haven't made an objective assessment to see if this seems true to know for sure. Convincing without unreasonable leaps due to insta-love. Well done.
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A Second Chance by Heather B. Moore: 5 stars
From the blurb: "Virginia needs a new start in order to recover from her broken marriage and [the] vicious gossips of her neighborhood in Boston, so… she goes to live with her friend’s family. But when Millie asked Virginia to participate in a double-date, Virginia... agrees, only to find out that Max might just be the man who can repair the cracks in her heart. "
I love that the characters are very nice people, even amidst very big problems. The story was very well written.
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Braelynn's Blind Date by Victorine E. Lieske: 4.5 stars
From the blurb: "When Braelynn agrees to go on a blind date, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. Tyler is gorgeous and the perfect gentleman. Of course she should have known it was too good to be true."
The hero messes up in this one and regrets it later. I wish that at some point he had explained the reasoning behind the mess-up. Otherwise, I thought it was a great contemporary story with creative, unpredictable storytelling.
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Bianca's Hope by Rachel Branton: 4 stars
I didn't like the blurb for this story. Here's my own: Bianca makes fine pottery and has made a name for herself. Now there's a copycat potterer mimicking her work and her logo, offering inferior pieces at lower prices to Bianca's clients. It's hurting Bianca's ability to sell, and she's worried that her hard-earned reputation for making high-quality pieces will suffer. When the intern in a law firm she consults doesn't give her any hope of a successful outcome in court, she becomes quite upset. Later, a blind date her sister sets up turns out to be with none other than the intern……
What I didn't like:
*I didn't really love Bianca in her dealings with Stephen. She was rude. But beyond that, she reported that he had lacked tact during her consultation with him. Which is entirely false… He was very professional. So her perception of him is, in my view, immature, and I don't admire this heroine.
*I also feel that Stephen - the intern - was too quick to be interested in Bianca. He was wondering about kissing her on their blind date right after previously meeting her on a professional basis for the first time in a very tense situation. Those things aside, I enjoyed the story.
What I liked: I liked the originality of the plot. The legal aspects of the story were really interesting. I'm no expert, but it appears that Ms. Branton has done her homework in researching the legal ramifications of someone using another person's logo.
If anyone reading this review has a recommendation for a story - preferably a romance or a mystery - that goes into the law by way of a lawyer or a courtroom, please comment below. :-)
Unrelated to that, here's a piece of writing that I really appreciated:
"I think I'm going to kiss you." ← Permission requested
"Well, do it already." ← Permission granted.
Nice.
------------------------------------------------
Blind Spot by Sariah Wilson: 4 stars
From the blurb: "Ria has prepared most of her life to meet her prince.... So when Ria reads about a country teeming with princes, she drops everything and applies to grad school [in that country]. But every blind date goes wrong, and... [eventually] Ria discovers that all the things she thought she wanted in a man are far from what she really needs."
To start off with, I just have to say it. To be so obsessed with wanting to be a princess, not to mention trying to make it happen, is very immature. I think the following passage expresses the level of maturity of this heroine:
"With no scholarships and no way to qualify for loans in a country where I wasn't a resident, I sunk all of the money in my checking account into an international plane ticket and arrived with my suitcases and little else. I had no place to live. No job. I had been so totally focused on just getting there that I hadn't considered the realities of day-to-day living."
Hoo boy. She makes a friend - with someone who somehow decides that they're going to be bosom friends even though Ria needs a place to crash and has no money because she's foolish - and is somehow able to limp along. The rest of the story is enjoyable. It shows Ria developing friends and going on some blind dates. As the reader might expect, she needs to make a number of mental adjustments before she can have her own happily ever after.
------------------------------------------------
Is it clean/chaste? Yes. All the Timeless Romance collections are chaste.
Other content issues: I can't think of anything except for the one story that has the hero daydreaming about the heroine way too early on.
***********
The bottom line: This is a great feel-good read. I recommend it wholeheartedly to fans of clean romance. I've already started reading Mail Order Bride Collection.
'All in good time, my boy.' Grandpa gestured toward the horse and added, 'Let's get home before she falls over dead in the heat.'
Barrett flicked the reins. 'Remind me to never drive you anywhere ever again.'"
Blind Date Collection (2016, Mirror Press), 18th in the Timeless Romance Anthology series, contains three historical and three contemporary romances, each a standalone written by a different author. I looked forward to reading it because I find all of the Timeless collections to be safe, clean reads that I can fully expect to enjoy.
Rating: 4.6 stars
Narration: It's been too long for me to specifically rate the narration, but I'm sure it would have been between 4 and 5 stars.
------------------------------------------------
The Promise That Katy Did by Annette Lyon: 5 stars
From the blurb: "After the death of Sue Ellen, the closest thing she has to family, Katy knows it’s time to leave the house she’s lived in as a guest and start over in the city. She quickly secures a job, but before leaving, she must honor the unusual promise she made to Sue Ellen on her deathbed: meet with Mr. Balmer..."
I really enjoyed this story. It was very, very sweet! The author did a nice job of dodging the insta-love bullet while still forging a convincing connection between the main characters.
------------------------------------------------
A Lady of Sense by Sarah M. Eden: 5 stars
From the blurb: " Eleanor Sherwood has lived her entire life under her parents’ thumb with little hope of escape. When they choose the unbearable Mr. Broadstead to be her future husband, she begs her father for another option. He arranges for her to meet Peter Havensham..."
Characters with character! Specifically, integrity. I suspect this is a trademark of Sarah M. Eden, though I haven't made an objective assessment to see if this seems true to know for sure. Convincing without unreasonable leaps due to insta-love. Well done.
------------------------------------------------
A Second Chance by Heather B. Moore: 5 stars
From the blurb: "Virginia needs a new start in order to recover from her broken marriage and [the] vicious gossips of her neighborhood in Boston, so… she goes to live with her friend’s family. But when Millie asked Virginia to participate in a double-date, Virginia... agrees, only to find out that Max might just be the man who can repair the cracks in her heart. "
I love that the characters are very nice people, even amidst very big problems. The story was very well written.
------------------------------------------------
Braelynn's Blind Date by Victorine E. Lieske: 4.5 stars
From the blurb: "When Braelynn agrees to go on a blind date, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. Tyler is gorgeous and the perfect gentleman. Of course she should have known it was too good to be true."
The hero messes up in this one and regrets it later. I wish that at some point he had explained the reasoning behind the mess-up. Otherwise, I thought it was a great contemporary story with creative, unpredictable storytelling.
------------------------------------------------
Bianca's Hope by Rachel Branton: 4 stars
I didn't like the blurb for this story. Here's my own: Bianca makes fine pottery and has made a name for herself. Now there's a copycat potterer mimicking her work and her logo, offering inferior pieces at lower prices to Bianca's clients. It's hurting Bianca's ability to sell, and she's worried that her hard-earned reputation for making high-quality pieces will suffer. When the intern in a law firm she consults doesn't give her any hope of a successful outcome in court, she becomes quite upset. Later, a blind date her sister sets up turns out to be with none other than the intern……
What I didn't like:
*I didn't really love Bianca in her dealings with Stephen. She was rude. But beyond that, she reported that he had lacked tact during her consultation with him. Which is entirely false… He was very professional. So her perception of him is, in my view, immature, and I don't admire this heroine.
*I also feel that Stephen - the intern - was too quick to be interested in Bianca. He was wondering about kissing her on their blind date right after previously meeting her on a professional basis for the first time in a very tense situation. Those things aside, I enjoyed the story.
What I liked: I liked the originality of the plot. The legal aspects of the story were really interesting. I'm no expert, but it appears that Ms. Branton has done her homework in researching the legal ramifications of someone using another person's logo.
If anyone reading this review has a recommendation for a story - preferably a romance or a mystery - that goes into the law by way of a lawyer or a courtroom, please comment below. :-)
Unrelated to that, here's a piece of writing that I really appreciated:
"I think I'm going to kiss you." ← Permission requested
"Well, do it already." ← Permission granted.
Nice.
------------------------------------------------
Blind Spot by Sariah Wilson: 4 stars
From the blurb: "Ria has prepared most of her life to meet her prince.... So when Ria reads about a country teeming with princes, she drops everything and applies to grad school [in that country]. But every blind date goes wrong, and... [eventually] Ria discovers that all the things she thought she wanted in a man are far from what she really needs."
To start off with, I just have to say it. To be so obsessed with wanting to be a princess, not to mention trying to make it happen, is very immature. I think the following passage expresses the level of maturity of this heroine:
"With no scholarships and no way to qualify for loans in a country where I wasn't a resident, I sunk all of the money in my checking account into an international plane ticket and arrived with my suitcases and little else. I had no place to live. No job. I had been so totally focused on just getting there that I hadn't considered the realities of day-to-day living."
Hoo boy. She makes a friend - with someone who somehow decides that they're going to be bosom friends even though Ria needs a place to crash and has no money because she's foolish - and is somehow able to limp along. The rest of the story is enjoyable. It shows Ria developing friends and going on some blind dates. As the reader might expect, she needs to make a number of mental adjustments before she can have her own happily ever after.
------------------------------------------------
Is it clean/chaste? Yes. All the Timeless Romance collections are chaste.
Other content issues: I can't think of anything except for the one story that has the hero daydreaming about the heroine way too early on.
***********
The bottom line: This is a great feel-good read. I recommend it wholeheartedly to fans of clean romance. I've already started reading Mail Order Bride Collection.
September 4, 2016
I love this collection of stories that start with a blind date. Blind dates are always the dreaded date. In all 6 of these stories, the dates are a start of something wonderful. Each story is completely different. The first 3 are set in earlier time periods and the last 3 modern day. This collection had some of my favorite authors so I was excited to read it.
The promise Katy Did is about Katy and Barrett. Katy is alone in the world after losing her elderly friend Sue Ellen. When an old beau of Sue Ellen shows up, the two decided to match up Katy and Mr. Balmer's grandson Barrett. Barrett takes Katy to a town dance. The two are able to talk easily and become fast friends. Will this date lead to something more? I liked this story but I wish there was more to it.
A Lady of Sense is about Eleanor and Peter. When Eleanor parents inform her that Mr Broadstead would be her intended, Eleanor frantically tries to find a way to escape this fate. Peter is brought into the mix by Eleanor's dad. Peter might save Eleanor but she likes him too much to misuse him. Can Peter figure out a way to help Eleanor that won't be a forced marriage? This is another great story by Sarah Eden one of my favorite authors.
A Second Chance is about Virigina and Max. Virigina's husband cheated on her and then divorced her leaving her a social outcast raising her son on her own. Virginia is saved by her best friend Millie. While living with Millie and her husband, Virginia meets Max. There is an instant connection but Virginia is afraid to trust again. Can Virginia follow her heart to a promising future? This is a sweet story about finding love after heartbreak.
Braelynn's Blind Date is about Braelynn and Nathan. Braelynn is supposed to go on a blind date with Tyler but mistakes Nathan for Tyler and Nathan is not able to tell her the truth. When Braelynn finds out the deception she is angry. Her and Nathan end of working together and Braelynn fights her attraction to Nathan until Nathan leaves. Has Braelynn's stubbornness cost her the love of her life. Victorine Liske is another favorite author and delivers another great story.
Bianca's Hope is about Bianca and Stephen. Bianca goes to Stephen for legal help and is told her case is hopeless. Bianca storms out and hopes to never see Stephen again. Then she is set up on a blind date by her sister Zoey. Stephen ends up being her blind date. The two after some misunderstandings start to work together to fix Bianca's problem and a romance develops along the way. This book has characters from another book by Rachel Branton. It was fun to see more about these characters.
The last book is Blind Spot is about Maria and Paolo. Maria has always been fascinated with with princesses. She decided to get her extra schooling from a country Monterra that is full of princes. After some awful blind dates, Maria decides to give up her search for a prince. Her roommate Tessa sets her up on a blind date with her brother Paolo. Maria realizes that what she has always wanted has been right in front of her all along. I love everything every written by Sariah Wilson!
The promise Katy Did is about Katy and Barrett. Katy is alone in the world after losing her elderly friend Sue Ellen. When an old beau of Sue Ellen shows up, the two decided to match up Katy and Mr. Balmer's grandson Barrett. Barrett takes Katy to a town dance. The two are able to talk easily and become fast friends. Will this date lead to something more? I liked this story but I wish there was more to it.
A Lady of Sense is about Eleanor and Peter. When Eleanor parents inform her that Mr Broadstead would be her intended, Eleanor frantically tries to find a way to escape this fate. Peter is brought into the mix by Eleanor's dad. Peter might save Eleanor but she likes him too much to misuse him. Can Peter figure out a way to help Eleanor that won't be a forced marriage? This is another great story by Sarah Eden one of my favorite authors.
A Second Chance is about Virigina and Max. Virigina's husband cheated on her and then divorced her leaving her a social outcast raising her son on her own. Virginia is saved by her best friend Millie. While living with Millie and her husband, Virginia meets Max. There is an instant connection but Virginia is afraid to trust again. Can Virginia follow her heart to a promising future? This is a sweet story about finding love after heartbreak.
Braelynn's Blind Date is about Braelynn and Nathan. Braelynn is supposed to go on a blind date with Tyler but mistakes Nathan for Tyler and Nathan is not able to tell her the truth. When Braelynn finds out the deception she is angry. Her and Nathan end of working together and Braelynn fights her attraction to Nathan until Nathan leaves. Has Braelynn's stubbornness cost her the love of her life. Victorine Liske is another favorite author and delivers another great story.
Bianca's Hope is about Bianca and Stephen. Bianca goes to Stephen for legal help and is told her case is hopeless. Bianca storms out and hopes to never see Stephen again. Then she is set up on a blind date by her sister Zoey. Stephen ends up being her blind date. The two after some misunderstandings start to work together to fix Bianca's problem and a romance develops along the way. This book has characters from another book by Rachel Branton. It was fun to see more about these characters.
The last book is Blind Spot is about Maria and Paolo. Maria has always been fascinated with with princesses. She decided to get her extra schooling from a country Monterra that is full of princes. After some awful blind dates, Maria decides to give up her search for a prince. Her roommate Tessa sets her up on a blind date with her brother Paolo. Maria realizes that what she has always wanted has been right in front of her all along. I love everything every written by Sariah Wilson!
September 9, 2016
Timeless Romance Anthology series has another hit with this blind date collection. There are 3 historical novellas and 3 contemporary novellas in this set. Each one is worth reading. I think everyone has at least one, if not several, blind dating experiences they can relate to these stories. This was a pure joy to read. In the historical novellas I found myself routing and hoping for the very best of outcomes for each of the heroines. In the contemporary novellas I found myself alternating between laughing and wanting to smack the heroine to wake them up to the amazing guy in front of them. Fun, clean novellas that I would definitely recommend.
July 28, 2020
There is a "blind date" scenario for every taste in this collection. The stories start in the Regency period and end in the modern era. I would be hard pressed to choose a favorite one. Each original story is well suited for readers who prefer happy endings.
I was given a preview copy in exchange for my honest review.
I was given a preview copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 21, 2017
4.5 Stars
BLIND DATE COLLECTION was delightfully sweet and romantic with six novellas that were all thoroughly enjoyable. All the authors did a fantastic job in making their characters come alive and plots feel complete in these short stories. If you enjoy similar stories or the other books in this line, you'll love this one as well!
THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, by Annette Lyon: I haven't read many stories set in historic Utah, so that was interesting. It was also interesting having a character who had come to America herself and was trying to work out a life without family or true friends. I loved how simple and sweet the romance was while also having some intensity. Barrett, the leading man, had to make a quick decision, making the ending climatic and endearing.
A LADY OF SENSE, by Sarah M. Eden: I adored the characters in this story! Add to that a heartbreaking situation with Eleanor, some humor, a group of interesting side characters, a slightly villainous suitor, abhorrent parents and a charming romance and you have a story that I absolutely loved! I can never get enough of this author.
A SECOND CHANCE, by Heather B. Moore: I really loved this story as well. The heroine, Virgina, faces a difficult situation, but with the help of friends and perseverance she pushes through it. There were a few annoying characters that created some tension and I wanted someone to give a good shaking or talking to. I loved Max. He's charming and just what Virgina needs. This one has a very sweet ending too.
BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE, by Victorine E. Lieske: This story made me laugh. I could picture the complete scenario at the beginning of the story and the misunderstandings it creates. I really liked that these characters were complex with their own strengths and vulnerabilities. There were some very humorous moments and equally sweet ones. Another very enjoyable story.
BIANCA’S HOPE, by Rachel Branton: I loved the feisty heroine in this story and the whole situation with the two main characters meeting again after a not-so-great first impression. I loved the unspoken moments between some of the characters and just the story as a whole.
BLIND SPOT, by Sariah Wilson: So I have to note that the main character was totally crazy with her prince mania, but at the same time, it added a unique twist to the story and made the heroine rather quirky in a way. The romance was really fast in this one, but also steamy (while also remaining clean). The end was crazy and romantic. Loved it!
In the end, was it what I wished for? Yes. I was in the mood for some sweet romance that was also on the lighter and shorter side and this collection left me happily content.
Content: Clean
Source: Received complimentary copy through ebooksforreview.com, which did not require a review nor affect it in any way.
BLIND DATE COLLECTION was delightfully sweet and romantic with six novellas that were all thoroughly enjoyable. All the authors did a fantastic job in making their characters come alive and plots feel complete in these short stories. If you enjoy similar stories or the other books in this line, you'll love this one as well!
THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, by Annette Lyon: I haven't read many stories set in historic Utah, so that was interesting. It was also interesting having a character who had come to America herself and was trying to work out a life without family or true friends. I loved how simple and sweet the romance was while also having some intensity. Barrett, the leading man, had to make a quick decision, making the ending climatic and endearing.
A LADY OF SENSE, by Sarah M. Eden: I adored the characters in this story! Add to that a heartbreaking situation with Eleanor, some humor, a group of interesting side characters, a slightly villainous suitor, abhorrent parents and a charming romance and you have a story that I absolutely loved! I can never get enough of this author.
A SECOND CHANCE, by Heather B. Moore: I really loved this story as well. The heroine, Virgina, faces a difficult situation, but with the help of friends and perseverance she pushes through it. There were a few annoying characters that created some tension and I wanted someone to give a good shaking or talking to. I loved Max. He's charming and just what Virgina needs. This one has a very sweet ending too.
BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE, by Victorine E. Lieske: This story made me laugh. I could picture the complete scenario at the beginning of the story and the misunderstandings it creates. I really liked that these characters were complex with their own strengths and vulnerabilities. There were some very humorous moments and equally sweet ones. Another very enjoyable story.
BIANCA’S HOPE, by Rachel Branton: I loved the feisty heroine in this story and the whole situation with the two main characters meeting again after a not-so-great first impression. I loved the unspoken moments between some of the characters and just the story as a whole.
BLIND SPOT, by Sariah Wilson: So I have to note that the main character was totally crazy with her prince mania, but at the same time, it added a unique twist to the story and made the heroine rather quirky in a way. The romance was really fast in this one, but also steamy (while also remaining clean). The end was crazy and romantic. Loved it!
In the end, was it what I wished for? Yes. I was in the mood for some sweet romance that was also on the lighter and shorter side and this collection left me happily content.
Content: Clean
Source: Received complimentary copy through ebooksforreview.com, which did not require a review nor affect it in any way.
September 16, 2016
This is an anthology of short stories all with the theme of blind dates. In some, the blind dates are more obvious than others, and they all have situations with the potential of awkward. Three of the stories are historical and the other three are contemporary.
I think I liked the historical stories better in this anthology, and my favorite ones were A Lady of Sense and A Second Chance. The contemporary stories seemed a bit more far fetched, especially the last one, Blind Spot; it almost bordered on fantasy instead on account of all the improbable situations.
Not one of my favorite anthologies but fans of these authors will love these stories. I recommend it to anyone who likes short reads and cute couples.
(I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.)
I think I liked the historical stories better in this anthology, and my favorite ones were A Lady of Sense and A Second Chance. The contemporary stories seemed a bit more far fetched, especially the last one, Blind Spot; it almost bordered on fantasy instead on account of all the improbable situations.
Not one of my favorite anthologies but fans of these authors will love these stories. I recommend it to anyone who likes short reads and cute couples.
(I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.)
September 13, 2016
4.5 Stars
Received ebook in exchange for an honest review
I hear the words "Blind Date" and I cringe a bit. In general, we all have bad associations with blind dates. That is part of what makes this collection so fun.
Full Review :
http://brooke-brookesbooks.blogspot.c...
Received ebook in exchange for an honest review
I hear the words "Blind Date" and I cringe a bit. In general, we all have bad associations with blind dates. That is part of what makes this collection so fun.
Full Review :
http://brooke-brookesbooks.blogspot.c...
September 9, 2016
What a fun set of stories! While all of these stories were very different, they all centered around blind dates. They were all clean, romantic, and heart warming. I loved that I was introduced to several new authors as well. I can honestly say that I enjoyed each one of these novellas.
July 31, 2022
This is another great Timeless Romance Anthology collection! I liked the idea of a blind date theme. My brother met his wife on a blind date, so I know that sometimes they really do work out. :) I also loved having three historical and three contemporary novellas in this collection.
The Promise That Katy Did by Annette Lyon
Katy is so sweet and so kind! Right away I was rooting for her and wanted her to find someone that would love and appreciate her. Barrett was just the guy! I liked that the novella didn’t jump straight to “Will you marry me?” but instead ended with the beautiful hope and possibilities of what was to come.
A Lady of Sense by Sarah M. Eden
I loved this story! Eleanor was smart and witty. Her honesty was so admirable. Peter was kind and good. I loved that he wanted to help Eleanor, even after what had happened. And I quite enjoyed how he ended up helping!
A Second Chance by Heather B. Moore
What a beginning! Thank goodness for Millie and the new start Virginia got. I loved the way she met Max. There was great romance in this story, but I also loved the friendships.
Braelynn’s Blind Date by Victorine E. Lieske
This was a cute story. I guess this date epitomized the meaning of “blind date.” Good thing Nathan was such a great guy! Braelynn really drove me crazy sometimes, and things sure moved fast at the end, but overall, I enjoyed the story.
Bianca’s Hope by Rachel Branton
I really liked this story! It goes with Rachel Branton’s “Lily’s House” series. It stands alone, but it made me want to read the series. I thought this one could easily be made into a full-length novel. But it was developed well and satisfying as a novella, as well.
Blind Spot by Sariah Wilson
Ria just made me laugh! The way her mind worked was quite entertaining. I also loved Paolo’s reactions. This was such a cute story. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The Promise That Katy Did by Annette Lyon
Katy is so sweet and so kind! Right away I was rooting for her and wanted her to find someone that would love and appreciate her. Barrett was just the guy! I liked that the novella didn’t jump straight to “Will you marry me?” but instead ended with the beautiful hope and possibilities of what was to come.
A Lady of Sense by Sarah M. Eden
I loved this story! Eleanor was smart and witty. Her honesty was so admirable. Peter was kind and good. I loved that he wanted to help Eleanor, even after what had happened. And I quite enjoyed how he ended up helping!
A Second Chance by Heather B. Moore
What a beginning! Thank goodness for Millie and the new start Virginia got. I loved the way she met Max. There was great romance in this story, but I also loved the friendships.
Braelynn’s Blind Date by Victorine E. Lieske
This was a cute story. I guess this date epitomized the meaning of “blind date.” Good thing Nathan was such a great guy! Braelynn really drove me crazy sometimes, and things sure moved fast at the end, but overall, I enjoyed the story.
Bianca’s Hope by Rachel Branton
I really liked this story! It goes with Rachel Branton’s “Lily’s House” series. It stands alone, but it made me want to read the series. I thought this one could easily be made into a full-length novel. But it was developed well and satisfying as a novella, as well.
Blind Spot by Sariah Wilson
Ria just made me laugh! The way her mind worked was quite entertaining. I also loved Paolo’s reactions. This was such a cute story. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
September 13, 2016
We have all had the horror associated with blind dates ( You haven't? Lucky) Even after *ahem* a lot of years of marriage I can evoke one from high school (Kentucky Fried grease doesn't come out of new outfits). Sorry, I digressed. Blind dates.
I was so excited to read this collection. I have previously read all but one of these authors and knew I was in for a treat. Thanks for not letting me down ladies. The first three novellas are historical and the second three are contemporary. How fabulous is that! They are all unique and sweet.
My favorite is Sariah Wilson's Blind Spot. It's a sort of spin off of a series that I adore (Royals of Monterra). It's definitely one I'll reread.
Cheers to another delightful Timeless Romance Anthology. Brava
Rating: 4.5
Content: Clean
Source: ARC from author - THANKS
I was so excited to read this collection. I have previously read all but one of these authors and knew I was in for a treat. Thanks for not letting me down ladies. The first three novellas are historical and the second three are contemporary. How fabulous is that! They are all unique and sweet.
My favorite is Sariah Wilson's Blind Spot. It's a sort of spin off of a series that I adore (Royals of Monterra). It's definitely one I'll reread.
Cheers to another delightful Timeless Romance Anthology. Brava
Rating: 4.5
Content: Clean
Source: ARC from author - THANKS
September 13, 2016
Blind Date Collection is part of A Timeless Romance Anthology. It has six novellas, which are:
The Promise That Katy Did by Annette Lyon
A Lady of Sense by Sarah M Eden
A Second Chance by Heather B Moore
Braelynn's Blind by Victorine E Lieske
Bianca's Hope by Rachel Branton
Blind Spot by Sarah Wilson
I think this is my favorite so far from A Timeless Romance Anthology collections. Four of these authors are among my favorite to read. I would highly recommend this book.
5 plus stars.
The Promise That Katy Did by Annette Lyon
A Lady of Sense by Sarah M Eden
A Second Chance by Heather B Moore
Braelynn's Blind by Victorine E Lieske
Bianca's Hope by Rachel Branton
Blind Spot by Sarah Wilson
I think this is my favorite so far from A Timeless Romance Anthology collections. Four of these authors are among my favorite to read. I would highly recommend this book.
5 plus stars.
tbr-1
May 18, 2022Free on Amazon!
September 13, 2016
What a fun book to read! Although not many actual blind dates turn out well, these short stories all have a happy ending of course! I am a sucker for any historical romance stories, so I was pumped to read the 3 first novellas. However, the 3 contemporary romances were just as fun to read and I found myself not able to put it down for any of them! I always love to read anything from Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore & Sarah M. Eden and it's always fun to be introduced to the guest authors with each Timeless Romance Anthology book! Enjoyed this light-hearted book that is full of burgeoning romance that didn't disappoint!
September 13, 2016
What's better than a collection of novellas all centering around blind dates. Annette Lyon, Sarah Eden, and Heather Moore are all so talented and leave me wanting the story to go on longer. Great job ladies. All stories were inspiring.
October 19, 2016
This was a really fun collection of both historical and contemporary love stories. The first three novellas are historical, and the last three are contemporary. Each novella was a well-written, clean, love-story.
I love a good historical romance, so I was surprised when I enjoyed the contemporary stories even more than the historical. Maybe it was because there was more kissing. :) But each of these novellas was worth the read. I have no problem recommending this collection to clean-romance book lovers!
One of my favorite stories of the collection was "Braelynn's Blind Date," by Victorine E. Lieske. Braelynn goes on a blind date and really likes the guy. He has every quality she is looking for, especially honesty. So when she finds out he wasn't completely honest with her, she can't forgive him. But she soon realizes that if she wants a happily-ever-after, she is going to learn to love and forgive. It was a fun story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
But truth be told, I enjoyed all the novellas. If you don't have time to read a full-length novel, then these collections are perfect! Each novella can easily be read in one sitting and each contains a great love story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love a good historical romance, so I was surprised when I enjoyed the contemporary stories even more than the historical. Maybe it was because there was more kissing. :) But each of these novellas was worth the read. I have no problem recommending this collection to clean-romance book lovers!
One of my favorite stories of the collection was "Braelynn's Blind Date," by Victorine E. Lieske. Braelynn goes on a blind date and really likes the guy. He has every quality she is looking for, especially honesty. So when she finds out he wasn't completely honest with her, she can't forgive him. But she soon realizes that if she wants a happily-ever-after, she is going to learn to love and forgive. It was a fun story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
But truth be told, I enjoyed all the novellas. If you don't have time to read a full-length novel, then these collections are perfect! Each novella can easily be read in one sitting and each contains a great love story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 13, 2016
Another great collection of stories from the Timeless Romance Anthology. Three of them are historical romances and three are contemporary romances, all with the common theme of blind dates. Although the common thread in all of them is a blind date, the way each couple meets is different--some are set up by friends, others meet accidentally.
I loved the historical romance novellas because I love the three authors that wrote them (Annette Lyon, Sarah M. Eden, and Heather B. Moore). Those stories, THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, A LADY OF SENSE, and A SECOND CHANCE, were my favorites, although I did enjoy the contemporary romance stories too. With six different novellas each by a different author there’s a blind date romance story for everyone.
A LADY OF SENSE was #1 of my favorites, I didn’t want the story to end. I wanted to read more about Eleanor and Peter’s courtship.
As always with the Timeless Romance collections the stories are clean romances with no profanity. I was given an advanced copy ebook for an honest review.
I loved the historical romance novellas because I love the three authors that wrote them (Annette Lyon, Sarah M. Eden, and Heather B. Moore). Those stories, THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, A LADY OF SENSE, and A SECOND CHANCE, were my favorites, although I did enjoy the contemporary romance stories too. With six different novellas each by a different author there’s a blind date romance story for everyone.
A LADY OF SENSE was #1 of my favorites, I didn’t want the story to end. I wanted to read more about Eleanor and Peter’s courtship.
As always with the Timeless Romance collections the stories are clean romances with no profanity. I was given an advanced copy ebook for an honest review.
September 13, 2016
I love all the TRA, but this one has to be one of my favorites! I loved the mix between historical and contemporary novellas! These collections are incredible because they are bite-sized reads (perfect for my sporadic reading schedule), but still have well-developed characters and plots! I also love being introduced to new authors who contribute. I loved reading this the first time, but I'm looking forward to reading it again and again :) Super clean, sweet, with HEA's that leaves me smiling.
September 16, 2016
Clean contemporary and regency romance short stories.Not one of my favorite sets but there were two really good story's set back a bit in time I loved. Eden and Moores books were so much fun for me. The others were ok and fun to read, just lacked the depth and emotion these two put in there writing.
January 8, 2017
My favorite novella in this set was the first one. I really liked the characters and storyline a lot. It was interesting to go into these books knowing there was going to be a blind date soon after learning who the characters were and trying to guess what their reactions might be. I liked that there was a touch of Christmas is in all of them too.
I did receive an ebook for an honest review.
I did receive an ebook for an honest review.
September 16, 2016
These stories ranged from Regency to contemporary. Reading about all these blind dates had me walking down memory lane with some of the blind dates I went on - ha!ha!
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon.com
Content: Clean
Source: Amazon.com
June 14, 2022
I liked the first 3 stories, the 4th was ok. The 5th has a TRIGGER WARNING ⚠️ of child sex abuse (which it didn’t needed to be added to the story at all!) and the last story was just ok but made me cringe with her obsession with marrying a price 🤦♀️ Note to self- if re-reading stop after the first 3. I always hope that when I read these I come away happy and for the most part I do but when they add stories like that it makes me not want to read anymore of these to be honest.
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