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The Nutcracker Reimagined: A Collection of Christmas Tales
A MASTERPIECE OF HOLIDAY STORYTELLING...
Imagine, if you will, that it is Christmas Eve.
The candles are guttered, one by one, and a hush falls over the grand parlor. The children have gone to bed, and a tall, gloriously decorated Christmas tree looms in the shadows of the hearth’s dying embers. Beside the tree a nutcracker stands guard, its broken jaw cradled in a kerchief tied about its head. All is quiet in this dark, peaceful scene until the long case clock chimes. Dulcet tones form a gentle symphony, and the parlor comes to life.
Now, the magic happens.
Lose yourself in The Nutcracker Reimagined, a collection of eleven Christmas tales based on the most treasured characters from the famous holiday ballet, The Nutcracker. Sugarplum fairies will dance in your head, as armies of mice and legions of dolls do battle, and a wounded nutcracker and his lady fair become the stuff of which legends are made. From Arabian dancers to living flowers and hosts of angels, enjoy these tales as reimagined characters from the beloved Christmas tradition find their own happily ever after.
And as the clock’s chimes signal the approaching sunrise, you’ll awaken from these magical stories to discover it has all been a beautiful dream of a retold Christmas classic.
The Mercenary's Bride by Claire Delacroix
Once Upon a Christmas Knight by Barbara Devlin
Realm of Angels by Kathryn Le Veque
Prelude to The Highlander's Gift by Eliza Knight
Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen
Rodrick the Bold by Suzan Tisdale
Christmas at the Inn on Cloud Hill by Tina DeSalvo
One Mystical Moment by Laura Landon
All She Wanted for Christmas by Layna Pimentel
To Kiss a Governess by Emma Prince
*****
A limited edition collection!
Imagine, if you will, that it is Christmas Eve.
The candles are guttered, one by one, and a hush falls over the grand parlor. The children have gone to bed, and a tall, gloriously decorated Christmas tree looms in the shadows of the hearth’s dying embers. Beside the tree a nutcracker stands guard, its broken jaw cradled in a kerchief tied about its head. All is quiet in this dark, peaceful scene until the long case clock chimes. Dulcet tones form a gentle symphony, and the parlor comes to life.
Now, the magic happens.
Lose yourself in The Nutcracker Reimagined, a collection of eleven Christmas tales based on the most treasured characters from the famous holiday ballet, The Nutcracker. Sugarplum fairies will dance in your head, as armies of mice and legions of dolls do battle, and a wounded nutcracker and his lady fair become the stuff of which legends are made. From Arabian dancers to living flowers and hosts of angels, enjoy these tales as reimagined characters from the beloved Christmas tradition find their own happily ever after.
And as the clock’s chimes signal the approaching sunrise, you’ll awaken from these magical stories to discover it has all been a beautiful dream of a retold Christmas classic.
The Mercenary's Bride by Claire Delacroix
Once Upon a Christmas Knight by Barbara Devlin
Realm of Angels by Kathryn Le Veque
Prelude to The Highlander's Gift by Eliza Knight
Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen
Rodrick the Bold by Suzan Tisdale
Christmas at the Inn on Cloud Hill by Tina DeSalvo
One Mystical Moment by Laura Landon
All She Wanted for Christmas by Layna Pimentel
To Kiss a Governess by Emma Prince
*****
A limited edition collection!
667 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2017
48 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Claire Delacroix
123 books519 followersNew York Times bestselling author Claire Delacroix sold her first book in 1992, an historical romance called ROMANCE OF THE ROSE. Since then, she has published over sixty romance novels and novellas, and has also been published under the names Claire Cross and Deborah Cooke. She has an honours degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies. She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels.
For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.
Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com
Like her Facebook Fan Pages here:
http://www.facebook.com/AuthorClaireD...
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Subscribe to her monthly newsletter to keep up to date and receive special offers:
http://eepurl.com/reIuD
For books written under the pseudonym, Claire Cross, see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
For books written under Claire's own name, Deborah Cooke, please see:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
In October and November 2009, she was the writer in residence for the Toronto Public Library, the first time that the library has hosted a residency focused on the romance genre.
Visit her two websites here:
http://www.delacroix.net
http://www.deborahcooke.com
Like her Facebook Fan Pages here:
http://www.facebook.com/AuthorClaireD...
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDebora...
Subscribe to her monthly newsletter to keep up to date and receive special offers:
http://eepurl.com/reIuD
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 21, 2017
You can find this review in English below.
No pensaba hacer una reseña de este libro pero, al ver que sólo las hay de 5 y 4 estrellas, he pensado que a lo mejor alguien le vendría bien un aviso. Yo lo he echado de menos.
No creo que a estas historias se les pueda llamar tal. Ni siquiera historias cortas. Son más bien un compendio de capítulos cortados que nos llevan al HEA de cada pareja sin pasar por la casilla de salida. Y a veces sin incluso argumento.
The Mercenary´s Bride por Claire Delacroix.
Hay más información en la descripción de la historia que en la historia en sí.
El héroe casi muere en España mientras intenta hacer fortuna para volver a reclamar a la hija de su señor.
Cuando vuelve, hecho unos zorros, ayuda a su señor a deshacerse del clan enemigo. Su señor le busca curro en el castillo de al lado y le otorga la mano de su hija.
Fin.
A eso lo llamo yo llegar y besar el santo.
Realm of Angels por Kathryn Le Veque.
Otro héroe que le dice a la heroína que se va a casar con ella y desaparece para hacer fortuna. Y ya puestos, se casa con una princesa francesa. Y en un incendio sufre quemaduras horribles y desfigurantes en su rostro. Y vuelve a ver a su amada y se pone a trabajar en el castillo, de carnicero. Y una noche que, cubierto de harapos y maloliente, sirve la cena en los salones del castillo,va y salva a la heroína del villano y ésta, al reconocerlo, cae rendida a sus pies y tienen el beneplácito de sus padres, porque, tú sabes, es amor verdadero.
Once Upon a Christmas Night por Barbara Devlin.
Un héroe entregadito a su amor por la heroína que espera a que el padre de ésta esté en dificultades económicas para aceptar la mano de su hija como pago por su ayuda. Aunque él lo hubiese hecho gratis. Y después de un montón de malentendidos: Fin.
Rodrick the Bold por Suzan Tisdale.
La heroína es secuestrada por el clan enemigo, vendida de unos a otros, maltratada hasta casi la muerte y violada repetidamente. Llega el héroe y es todo risitas y morderse la lengua para no reír….(¿¿??) Un poco de no soy lo bastante bueno para el otro y HEA.
Prelude to the Highlander´s Gift por Eliza Knight.
Agradecer a la autora que en la introducción nos advierta que más que una historia estos serán los primeros capítulos de su nueva novela, que será publicada en 2018.
Aún así, no me parece justo tener que pagar por el avance de una novela.
No la leí.
Brash: Frederick por Hildie McQueen.
He leído el primer capítulo y uno de los últimos en los que aparece Clara (la hermana del héroe).
En el primer capítulo el héroe pone una Glock (pistola para los no entendidos) en la cabeza del futuro marido de su hermana el día antes de su boda. Y el tío se queja de que, y cito, the a**hole left his sister high and dry at the church on her wedding day.
Sip.
Sin comentarios.
En el último que leí, Clara (la hermana) perdona a su futuro marido por huir (¿¿??) y se casa con él, porque es el amor de su vida.
Aún estoy flipando.
Este héroe sí que es una joyita, y lo demás son tonterías.
Y campana y se acabó. Ya no puedo más. Aquí lo dejo. Hay 4 historias más que dejo sin leer.
***
I wasn´t going to review this book but, seeing that there are only 5 and 4 stars reviews here, I think maybe a warning would be welcome. I would have appreciated it.
I wouldn´t call these stories stories per se, not even short stories. They are a compendium of chapters which led us to their HEA´s without a proper beginning and sometimes neither a plot.
The Mercenary´s Bride by Claire Delacroix.
The blurb is richer than the story.
The hero almost died in Spain when he was improving his wealth so he could go back and ask for the hand of his chief´s daughter.
When he returned, he was a complete wreck, but helped his ex-master to overcome an enemy clan attack. Grateful, his ex-chief gives him a job in a nearby castle and his daughter´s hand.
My, my, beginner´s luck so much?
Realm of Angels by Kathryn Le Veque.
Again a hero who tells the heroine he is going to marry her, but on the way to ask her father, he stumble into a French princess and decide to let the princess help him to improve his wealth (again) but then, he end up marrying the princess(and that´s all we know about it). But before the wedding, he is involved in a fire and suffers burns and disfigurements in his face. So the princess dismiss him and he comes back to see his love (from afar) and work as a butcher in her father´s castle. And one night he, who is dirty and smelly and is wearing drags, is serving the family in the dining room (well, you know, its medieval equivalent which right now I don´t remember…) and saves the heroine from the villain and she recognizes him and she gives him her heart with her parents approval, because you know, it´s true love.
Once Upon a Christmas Night by Barbara Devlin.
The hero is totally in love with the heroine but wait until her father asks him for help (he is in financial trouble) and accepts the heroine´s hand as payment for the help. Although he would have done it for free. And after lots of misunderstandings: the HEA.
Rodrick the Bold by Suzan Tisdale.
The heroine is kidnapped, sold, beaten almost to death and repeatedly raped by the enemy clan and, as soon as the hero shows, she has to bit her lip to not laugh, she giggle…(¿¿??) Add a bit of I´m not good enough for you and Ta-daaah!: The End. *sigh*
Prelude to the Highlander´s Gift by Eliza Knight.
Thanks to the author for the warning that this one is not a story. It´s a teaser from her next book (available in 2018)……. Are you kidding me?
I don´t think is fair I have to pay for a teaser (without knowing it)
I didn´t read it.
Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen.
I had read the first chapter and the next with Clara (the hero´s sister) in it.
In the first chapter, the hero holds a Glock (a gun, for those who aren´t acquainted with the word) against the head of Clara´s fiancé the day before their wedding. The fiancé fled in terror and the hero thinks, and I quote: the a**hole left his sister high and dry at the church on her wedding day.
Yep.
No comment.
In the next chapter in which Clara appears, she forgives her fiancé for running away and marries him because he is the love of her life (and vice versa)
This hero is a gem…
I throw in the towel, people.
You win.
There are four more stories I´m not going to read.
No pensaba hacer una reseña de este libro pero, al ver que sólo las hay de 5 y 4 estrellas, he pensado que a lo mejor alguien le vendría bien un aviso. Yo lo he echado de menos.
No creo que a estas historias se les pueda llamar tal. Ni siquiera historias cortas. Son más bien un compendio de capítulos cortados que nos llevan al HEA de cada pareja sin pasar por la casilla de salida. Y a veces sin incluso argumento.
The Mercenary´s Bride por Claire Delacroix.
Hay más información en la descripción de la historia que en la historia en sí.
El héroe casi muere en España mientras intenta hacer fortuna para volver a reclamar a la hija de su señor.
Cuando vuelve, hecho unos zorros, ayuda a su señor a deshacerse del clan enemigo. Su señor le busca curro en el castillo de al lado y le otorga la mano de su hija.
Fin.
A eso lo llamo yo llegar y besar el santo.
Realm of Angels por Kathryn Le Veque.
Otro héroe que le dice a la heroína que se va a casar con ella y desaparece para hacer fortuna. Y ya puestos, se casa con una princesa francesa. Y en un incendio sufre quemaduras horribles y desfigurantes en su rostro. Y vuelve a ver a su amada y se pone a trabajar en el castillo, de carnicero. Y una noche que, cubierto de harapos y maloliente, sirve la cena en los salones del castillo,va y salva a la heroína del villano y ésta, al reconocerlo, cae rendida a sus pies y tienen el beneplácito de sus padres, porque, tú sabes, es amor verdadero.
Once Upon a Christmas Night por Barbara Devlin.
Un héroe entregadito a su amor por la heroína que espera a que el padre de ésta esté en dificultades económicas para aceptar la mano de su hija como pago por su ayuda. Aunque él lo hubiese hecho gratis. Y después de un montón de malentendidos: Fin.
Rodrick the Bold por Suzan Tisdale.
La heroína es secuestrada por el clan enemigo, vendida de unos a otros, maltratada hasta casi la muerte y violada repetidamente. Llega el héroe y es todo risitas y morderse la lengua para no reír….(¿¿??) Un poco de no soy lo bastante bueno para el otro y HEA.
Prelude to the Highlander´s Gift por Eliza Knight.
Agradecer a la autora que en la introducción nos advierta que más que una historia estos serán los primeros capítulos de su nueva novela, que será publicada en 2018.
Aún así, no me parece justo tener que pagar por el avance de una novela.
No la leí.
Brash: Frederick por Hildie McQueen.
He leído el primer capítulo y uno de los últimos en los que aparece Clara (la hermana del héroe).
En el primer capítulo el héroe pone una Glock (pistola para los no entendidos) en la cabeza del futuro marido de su hermana el día antes de su boda. Y el tío se queja de que, y cito, the a**hole left his sister high and dry at the church on her wedding day.
Sip.
Sin comentarios.
En el último que leí, Clara (la hermana) perdona a su futuro marido por huir (¿¿??) y se casa con él, porque es el amor de su vida.
Aún estoy flipando.
Este héroe sí que es una joyita, y lo demás son tonterías.
Y campana y se acabó. Ya no puedo más. Aquí lo dejo. Hay 4 historias más que dejo sin leer.
***
I wasn´t going to review this book but, seeing that there are only 5 and 4 stars reviews here, I think maybe a warning would be welcome. I would have appreciated it.
I wouldn´t call these stories stories per se, not even short stories. They are a compendium of chapters which led us to their HEA´s without a proper beginning and sometimes neither a plot.
The Mercenary´s Bride by Claire Delacroix.
The blurb is richer than the story.
The hero almost died in Spain when he was improving his wealth so he could go back and ask for the hand of his chief´s daughter.
When he returned, he was a complete wreck, but helped his ex-master to overcome an enemy clan attack. Grateful, his ex-chief gives him a job in a nearby castle and his daughter´s hand.
My, my, beginner´s luck so much?
Realm of Angels by Kathryn Le Veque.
Again a hero who tells the heroine he is going to marry her, but on the way to ask her father, he stumble into a French princess and decide to let the princess help him to improve his wealth (again) but then, he end up marrying the princess(and that´s all we know about it). But before the wedding, he is involved in a fire and suffers burns and disfigurements in his face. So the princess dismiss him and he comes back to see his love (from afar) and work as a butcher in her father´s castle. And one night he, who is dirty and smelly and is wearing drags, is serving the family in the dining room (well, you know, its medieval equivalent which right now I don´t remember…) and saves the heroine from the villain and she recognizes him and she gives him her heart with her parents approval, because you know, it´s true love.
Once Upon a Christmas Night by Barbara Devlin.
The hero is totally in love with the heroine but wait until her father asks him for help (he is in financial trouble) and accepts the heroine´s hand as payment for the help. Although he would have done it for free. And after lots of misunderstandings: the HEA.
Rodrick the Bold by Suzan Tisdale.
The heroine is kidnapped, sold, beaten almost to death and repeatedly raped by the enemy clan and, as soon as the hero shows, she has to bit her lip to not laugh, she giggle…(¿¿??) Add a bit of I´m not good enough for you and Ta-daaah!: The End. *sigh*
Prelude to the Highlander´s Gift by Eliza Knight.
Thanks to the author for the warning that this one is not a story. It´s a teaser from her next book (available in 2018)……. Are you kidding me?
I don´t think is fair I have to pay for a teaser (without knowing it)
I didn´t read it.
Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen.
I had read the first chapter and the next with Clara (the hero´s sister) in it.
In the first chapter, the hero holds a Glock (a gun, for those who aren´t acquainted with the word) against the head of Clara´s fiancé the day before their wedding. The fiancé fled in terror and the hero thinks, and I quote: the a**hole left his sister high and dry at the church on her wedding day.
Yep.
No comment.
In the next chapter in which Clara appears, she forgives her fiancé for running away and marries him because he is the love of her life (and vice versa)
This hero is a gem…
I throw in the towel, people.
You win.
There are four more stories I´m not going to read.
October 13, 2017
I read only the installment from Claire Delacroix. My review is below.
Claire Delacroix is a favorite author of mine so I am always pleased when she has a new release. The novella in this collection is the start of a new series called the Brides of Inverfyre. For those who have read and enjoyed the Kinfairlie and Ravensmuir series, you will also like this, especially because the Hawk and Aileen have a strong presence in this tale.
Mhairi is a headstrong middle child. She is unlike most women and prefers to hunt, handle a knife, and find her own way. Her determination leads her to spending forbidden time learning the art of the blade with her father's chief of defense, Quentin. For his defiance of the laird, Quentin is expelled from the keep. Determined to one day reclaim Mhairi for his own, he leaves to find his fortune, only to lose everything and return to Inverfyre years later maimed and disgraced but set on keeping a promise to Mhairi.
The romance in this story focuses more on reclaiming a lost love. Mhairi and Quentin fell in love seven years ago off the page and the story starts upon Quentin's return. It is a quick paced adventure that tells the tale of Quentin's redemption and Mhairi's acceptance rather than how they met. For this short format, I think this choice was a good one. I liked how the two leads trusted each other and were devoted to one another. However, I would like to note that these two do not get to spend a lot of page time together. The adventure and intrigue (there is an enemy clan out for vengeance) is good, but most of the romance is off page. I think the purpose of this novella is to immerse you in the holding of the Hawk, remind you of Aileen and the Hawk and their devotion to each other, and set the stage for all of the stories to come.
I read this story in two sittings and enjoyed once again returning to Inverfyre. A lot of time is spent with all of the family members so it does help if you've read some of Delacroix's other series (Kinfairlie and Ravensmuir). It isn't heavy on the romance but it does have a great story and lays a sold groundwork for more stories to come.
I received this book from the author with no expectation of review and all thoughts are my own.
4 stars.
Claire Delacroix is a favorite author of mine so I am always pleased when she has a new release. The novella in this collection is the start of a new series called the Brides of Inverfyre. For those who have read and enjoyed the Kinfairlie and Ravensmuir series, you will also like this, especially because the Hawk and Aileen have a strong presence in this tale.
Mhairi is a headstrong middle child. She is unlike most women and prefers to hunt, handle a knife, and find her own way. Her determination leads her to spending forbidden time learning the art of the blade with her father's chief of defense, Quentin. For his defiance of the laird, Quentin is expelled from the keep. Determined to one day reclaim Mhairi for his own, he leaves to find his fortune, only to lose everything and return to Inverfyre years later maimed and disgraced but set on keeping a promise to Mhairi.
The romance in this story focuses more on reclaiming a lost love. Mhairi and Quentin fell in love seven years ago off the page and the story starts upon Quentin's return. It is a quick paced adventure that tells the tale of Quentin's redemption and Mhairi's acceptance rather than how they met. For this short format, I think this choice was a good one. I liked how the two leads trusted each other and were devoted to one another. However, I would like to note that these two do not get to spend a lot of page time together. The adventure and intrigue (there is an enemy clan out for vengeance) is good, but most of the romance is off page. I think the purpose of this novella is to immerse you in the holding of the Hawk, remind you of Aileen and the Hawk and their devotion to each other, and set the stage for all of the stories to come.
I read this story in two sittings and enjoyed once again returning to Inverfyre. A lot of time is spent with all of the family members so it does help if you've read some of Delacroix's other series (Kinfairlie and Ravensmuir). It isn't heavy on the romance but it does have a great story and lays a sold groundwork for more stories to come.
I received this book from the author with no expectation of review and all thoughts are my own.
4 stars.
October 17, 2017
What a great way to start the upcoming holidays! I thoroughly enjoyed all of the reimagined Nutcracker stories. Each tale is reimagined by each author. What a unique and successful concept.
My favorite story of the collection was Realms of Angel's by Kathryn Le Veque. The hero, Rhogan de Garr, makes an impression on you immediately. An excellent Knight who is a second son who must make his own way.
Unfortunately, choices are made which lead to a completely different outcome to what he predicted, while hurting the girl of his heart.
Lady Juliana de Nerra demonstrates what it is to love with your whole heart no matter what.
Each story was so unique by the following authors:
1. The Mercenaries Bride - Claire Delacroix
2. Realm of Angels - Kathryn Le Veque
3. Once Upon a Christmas Knight - Barbara Devlin
4. Rodrik the Bold - Suzan Tisdale
5. Prelude to the Highlander's Gift - Eliza Knight
6. Brash Frederick - Hilde McQueen
7. Christmas at the End on Cloud Hill - Tina DeSalvo
8. One Mystical Moment - Laura Landon
9. To kiss a Governess - Emma Prince
10. All She Wanted for Christmas - Layna Pimentel
I snuggled near the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and really enjoyed all of these.
My favorite story of the collection was Realms of Angel's by Kathryn Le Veque. The hero, Rhogan de Garr, makes an impression on you immediately. An excellent Knight who is a second son who must make his own way.
Unfortunately, choices are made which lead to a completely different outcome to what he predicted, while hurting the girl of his heart.
Lady Juliana de Nerra demonstrates what it is to love with your whole heart no matter what.
Each story was so unique by the following authors:
1. The Mercenaries Bride - Claire Delacroix
2. Realm of Angels - Kathryn Le Veque
3. Once Upon a Christmas Knight - Barbara Devlin
4. Rodrik the Bold - Suzan Tisdale
5. Prelude to the Highlander's Gift - Eliza Knight
6. Brash Frederick - Hilde McQueen
7. Christmas at the End on Cloud Hill - Tina DeSalvo
8. One Mystical Moment - Laura Landon
9. To kiss a Governess - Emma Prince
10. All She Wanted for Christmas - Layna Pimentel
I snuggled near the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and really enjoyed all of these.
April 3, 2018
Good collection of short stories by awesome collection of authors x
November 3, 2017
This was just lovely reading. I began at the beginning and have been reading at my leisure. The Mercenary’s Bride is the telling of a love, a love Mhairi held deep in her heart for a man ostracized from his clan, for daring to teach Mhairi, daughter of the clan how to use a crossbow and dagger, against specific commands from her da. This novella will be the first of a series author Claire Delacroix is starting.
Kathryn Le Veque’s Realm of Angels, unique in its presentation of the Mouse King, is a fantastic tale about a man who survived a fire, terribly scarred. His heart is wounded and seeks being close to a woman he loves, but carelessly let go six years ago for the lure of wealth and land. He works in the kitchen of her castle, masked to cover the hideousness of his face. This one is very touching and a testament that past errors can be overlooked when compared to the good wrought in the present.
Once Upon a Christmas Knight by Barbara Devlin moves us to London, 1813. Scandal is the dominant power molding lives, but the strong can survive. Percival Henry Forester Howe receives the whiplash of untruths and ton gossip. He wishes he could have offered for Margaret Hogart, but it is no way to start a marriage – she, too, would be shunned by the ton. Just has his situation clears, he receives a visit from Margaret’s father who’s in a rather financial pickle, being swindle by a so-called investor. Percy is very good with his investments and has high standing among the influential. Margaret’s father offers Margaret in marriage. Margaret is a rather shy woman, retiring, but plays the piano exquisitely. Can she be convinced to willingly marry Percy?
Suzan Tisdale writes a brilliant tale titled Rodrick the Bold. Taking place in 1357, he makes the usual wish upon a star on Christmas Tide – “I want naught more than a wife and bairns of me own. A family and home to call me own.” With strange dreams plaguing him, does what they ask – seek out Muriel McFarland, daughter of a warrior who had past. Tisdale has me weeping for the plight of Muriel. She is poorly used by and man and wife who say her father had owed them money. She is to work it off. Her brother not there to protect her, she finds she’s sold twice. Rodrick is her savior, but Rodrick can’t figure out why he’s spending so much time and money to find her for a man he should bother with.
On a side note: Rodrick has a love-hate relationship with his horse, Caderyn. It is the humor breaking a very bad and dangerous situation.
Lovely Quote:
Prelude to the Highlander’s Gift, written by Eliza Knight, is quite humorous. Bella Sutherland, daughter of the Chieftain of the Sutherland Clan, must wed. Her father gives her no choice, other than one of the men at the ball they sponsored, must be her new husband. She had decided never to marry for she has a secret. Stumbling upon a conversation of some merit, a warrior has been denied marriage to Princess Elizabeth. It’s because he is missing an arm, from battle. She’s also heard he has other injuries. Bella seizes upon the moment and claims the warrior for herself. What is nice about this one, it’s a prelude to The Highlander’s Gift, releasing in 2018.
The last one I’ll speak on, although there are four more stories, is Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen. Remember, readers, this is 677 pages long! This one takes place in Montana. Kennedy Brooks is short of help, in fact desperate for it. Rick Edwards, in search for his love-struck sister’s groom, happens upon Kennedy’s farm; she’s thinking about selling and he just might be interested. Kennedy has just come off a divorce, her ex found cheating. Animals play a large part in this contemporary romance. This is a story where hero and heroine go after what they want!
Bottom Line: Lovely collection of happy ever afters ready to be read and enjoyed as you purchase your tickets to see The Nutcracker Suite ballet this season.
Kathryn Le Veque’s Realm of Angels, unique in its presentation of the Mouse King, is a fantastic tale about a man who survived a fire, terribly scarred. His heart is wounded and seeks being close to a woman he loves, but carelessly let go six years ago for the lure of wealth and land. He works in the kitchen of her castle, masked to cover the hideousness of his face. This one is very touching and a testament that past errors can be overlooked when compared to the good wrought in the present.
Once Upon a Christmas Knight by Barbara Devlin moves us to London, 1813. Scandal is the dominant power molding lives, but the strong can survive. Percival Henry Forester Howe receives the whiplash of untruths and ton gossip. He wishes he could have offered for Margaret Hogart, but it is no way to start a marriage – she, too, would be shunned by the ton. Just has his situation clears, he receives a visit from Margaret’s father who’s in a rather financial pickle, being swindle by a so-called investor. Percy is very good with his investments and has high standing among the influential. Margaret’s father offers Margaret in marriage. Margaret is a rather shy woman, retiring, but plays the piano exquisitely. Can she be convinced to willingly marry Percy?
Suzan Tisdale writes a brilliant tale titled Rodrick the Bold. Taking place in 1357, he makes the usual wish upon a star on Christmas Tide – “I want naught more than a wife and bairns of me own. A family and home to call me own.” With strange dreams plaguing him, does what they ask – seek out Muriel McFarland, daughter of a warrior who had past. Tisdale has me weeping for the plight of Muriel. She is poorly used by and man and wife who say her father had owed them money. She is to work it off. Her brother not there to protect her, she finds she’s sold twice. Rodrick is her savior, but Rodrick can’t figure out why he’s spending so much time and money to find her for a man he should bother with.
Mayhap I have lost me mind, he quietly mused. Here I am, running around the Isle looking for a lass I have never met....Why are ye doin’ this to yerself? He had asked that question more than once in the past two days. Riskin’ yer own neck fer a lass ye’ve never met and fer a man who tried to kill ye.
On a side note: Rodrick has a love-hate relationship with his horse, Caderyn. It is the humor breaking a very bad and dangerous situation.
Lovely Quote:
Two lost souls stood in front of a tiny window in a small room at an inn. One wishing to die, the other wanting desperately for her to live. Once cried a river of tears, the other offered up whatever he could to console her.
Prelude to the Highlander’s Gift, written by Eliza Knight, is quite humorous. Bella Sutherland, daughter of the Chieftain of the Sutherland Clan, must wed. Her father gives her no choice, other than one of the men at the ball they sponsored, must be her new husband. She had decided never to marry for she has a secret. Stumbling upon a conversation of some merit, a warrior has been denied marriage to Princess Elizabeth. It’s because he is missing an arm, from battle. She’s also heard he has other injuries. Bella seizes upon the moment and claims the warrior for herself. What is nice about this one, it’s a prelude to The Highlander’s Gift, releasing in 2018.
The last one I’ll speak on, although there are four more stories, is Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen. Remember, readers, this is 677 pages long! This one takes place in Montana. Kennedy Brooks is short of help, in fact desperate for it. Rick Edwards, in search for his love-struck sister’s groom, happens upon Kennedy’s farm; she’s thinking about selling and he just might be interested. Kennedy has just come off a divorce, her ex found cheating. Animals play a large part in this contemporary romance. This is a story where hero and heroine go after what they want!
Bottom Line: Lovely collection of happy ever afters ready to be read and enjoyed as you purchase your tickets to see The Nutcracker Suite ballet this season.
October 20, 2017
The King of the Mice - by Kathryn Le Veque
This was an extremely well done novella with complicated characters shaped and influenced by previous events in their lives. I was delighted to discover that Ms. LeVeque expounded upon a character I was personally drawn to from a previous novel. As a child, Rhogan fostered in the home of Val de Nerra where he met Juliana, Val's daughter. After he became a knight, Rhogan left to fight in one of his King's campaigns against France. While Rhogan was known as an excellent knight, he continued to be haunted by the fact that he was not going to inherit lands and wealth like his friends. Concerned by his lack of fortune, Rhogan, was reluctantly swayed by the promise of land and wealth. Rhodan needed to learn that people are not always valued by the sum of their material wealth or their appearance, but by their character, what is in their heart, and how their respond to others. It was a very pleasant experience for me as I read Kathryn LeVeque's rendition of an old, well know, Christmas tale. She did a masterful job of seamlessly entwining it with a very touching medieval love story to provide the reader with a message of Hope and Everlasting Love. I believe anyone who is lucky enough to read this anthology will greatly enjoy their experience.
This was an extremely well done novella with complicated characters shaped and influenced by previous events in their lives. I was delighted to discover that Ms. LeVeque expounded upon a character I was personally drawn to from a previous novel. As a child, Rhogan fostered in the home of Val de Nerra where he met Juliana, Val's daughter. After he became a knight, Rhogan left to fight in one of his King's campaigns against France. While Rhogan was known as an excellent knight, he continued to be haunted by the fact that he was not going to inherit lands and wealth like his friends. Concerned by his lack of fortune, Rhogan, was reluctantly swayed by the promise of land and wealth. Rhodan needed to learn that people are not always valued by the sum of their material wealth or their appearance, but by their character, what is in their heart, and how their respond to others. It was a very pleasant experience for me as I read Kathryn LeVeque's rendition of an old, well know, Christmas tale. She did a masterful job of seamlessly entwining it with a very touching medieval love story to provide the reader with a message of Hope and Everlasting Love. I believe anyone who is lucky enough to read this anthology will greatly enjoy their experience.
October 24, 2017
The Nutcracker
What do you get when you get when the story plot is to re imagine a well loved story that has been told at every Christmas time, The Nutcracker Suite?
Why you fine not one fabulous author as Katharine le Veques but eleven wonderful authors writing their version of The Nutcracker reimagined.
These wonderful authors Katharine le Veques, Barbara Devlin, Eliza Knight, Hilde MC Queen, Suzan Tizdale, Tina Desalvo, Layna Pimentel Laura Landon and Emma Prince take you back to different times different ways and different Nutcracker stories that you are flying through each one before you know it.
Each author has you falling in love with their character's lives their situations and their path to happiness.
Each author tells how they reimagined the Nutcracker would be about and each leaves you with wanting more of the character's and especially more of their individual style of writing.
This book is filled with 11 stand alone novellas that even though brought together as they were the Nutcracker couldn't have been reimagined any better without all of the wonderful talented writers.
If you're looking for a holiday read one with loved authors you know or with new authors you don't this is one book that will cover al bases and when you finish it you will be looking to get more and more from each of these authors. .. just as I have
What do you get when you get when the story plot is to re imagine a well loved story that has been told at every Christmas time, The Nutcracker Suite?
Why you fine not one fabulous author as Katharine le Veques but eleven wonderful authors writing their version of The Nutcracker reimagined.
These wonderful authors Katharine le Veques, Barbara Devlin, Eliza Knight, Hilde MC Queen, Suzan Tizdale, Tina Desalvo, Layna Pimentel Laura Landon and Emma Prince take you back to different times different ways and different Nutcracker stories that you are flying through each one before you know it.
Each author has you falling in love with their character's lives their situations and their path to happiness.
Each author tells how they reimagined the Nutcracker would be about and each leaves you with wanting more of the character's and especially more of their individual style of writing.
This book is filled with 11 stand alone novellas that even though brought together as they were the Nutcracker couldn't have been reimagined any better without all of the wonderful talented writers.
If you're looking for a holiday read one with loved authors you know or with new authors you don't this is one book that will cover al bases and when you finish it you will be looking to get more and more from each of these authors. .. just as I have
October 28, 2017
Great Collection of Novellas
Each story in The Nutcracker Reimagined is a creative twist on the original tale by E.T.A. Hoffman or Alexander Dumas.
I read this book specifically for the story written by Kathryn Le Veque, "The Realm of Angels," as she is one of my favorite authors. Her take on The Nutcracker is about the Mouse King who actually ends up getting the girl, which is different than what happens in the original version. Kathryn has a talent at writing captivating and tender romances, great villains, and she does an excellent job of blending both into one character. However, in order for the Mouse King to get the girl, she had to create a scenario that evoked sympathy for him. Pretty hefty task, but I believe is done well. The person I felt the most sympathy for was the "Clara character," Juliana. She's been in love with her knight since childhood, and on the very evening he promised to ask her father for permission to court her, he chooses greed, ambition, and a French Princess instead. Four years she holds onto her love for her knight. Even after hearing about his engagement to the princess. It's terribly sad, but is an HEA after all.
Anyway, just this tale alone is worth the price of The Nutcracker Reimagined. Highly recommend!
Each story in The Nutcracker Reimagined is a creative twist on the original tale by E.T.A. Hoffman or Alexander Dumas.
I read this book specifically for the story written by Kathryn Le Veque, "The Realm of Angels," as she is one of my favorite authors. Her take on The Nutcracker is about the Mouse King who actually ends up getting the girl, which is different than what happens in the original version. Kathryn has a talent at writing captivating and tender romances, great villains, and she does an excellent job of blending both into one character. However, in order for the Mouse King to get the girl, she had to create a scenario that evoked sympathy for him. Pretty hefty task, but I believe is done well. The person I felt the most sympathy for was the "Clara character," Juliana. She's been in love with her knight since childhood, and on the very evening he promised to ask her father for permission to court her, he chooses greed, ambition, and a French Princess instead. Four years she holds onto her love for her knight. Even after hearing about his engagement to the princess. It's terribly sad, but is an HEA after all.
Anyway, just this tale alone is worth the price of The Nutcracker Reimagined. Highly recommend!
October 19, 2017
The Mercenary’s Bride by Claire Delacroix (Part of the Nutcracker Reimagined anthology)
Former Captain of the Guard Quentin was summarily dismissed from his post and driven from the gates of Inverfyre when he defied the Hawk's order to stop teaching his daughter Mhairi combat. It is now several years later and Quentin has had some difficult experiences, having been robbed, beaten and left for dead. As damaged as he now believes himself to be, still he returns to Inverfyre and Mhairi, the woman he loves, to keep a long ago promise, maybe even to prove himself worthy of her love. When the rival MacLarens threaten Inverfyre, Quentin does what he does best and devises a strategy to save The Hawk, Mhairi, and all of Inverfyre. Though the characters here will be familiar to readers of Ms. Delacroix's Rogues of Ravensmuir series, this lovely, beautifully written novella is a standalone with its own HEA. A co>A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
Former Captain of the Guard Quentin was summarily dismissed from his post and driven from the gates of Inverfyre when he defied the Hawk's order to stop teaching his daughter Mhairi combat. It is now several years later and Quentin has had some difficult experiences, having been robbed, beaten and left for dead. As damaged as he now believes himself to be, still he returns to Inverfyre and Mhairi, the woman he loves, to keep a long ago promise, maybe even to prove himself worthy of her love. When the rival MacLarens threaten Inverfyre, Quentin does what he does best and devises a strategy to save The Hawk, Mhairi, and all of Inverfyre. Though the characters here will be familiar to readers of Ms. Delacroix's Rogues of Ravensmuir series, this lovely, beautifully written novella is a standalone with its own HEA. A co>A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
December 13, 2017
With most or all of these loosely based on The Nutcracker, one of my favorite Christmas stories, these were overall fun to read... the whole set just took me a long time!
I had preordered this a while back for about a dollar, and so that meant pennies for each story. Definitely a good deal!
My favorite out of the bunch of ten was probably Emma Prince's "To Kiss a Governess," which features a "Clara" who has lost her mind after a devastating fire and her caring brother who seeks a sort of companion for her. I loved the Scottish Highlands setting!
Other stories I enjoyed included "Rodrick the Bold," by Susan Tisdale, and "Prelude to the Highlander's Gift," by Eliza Knight. Most of the stories were historical, and two were contemporary. I loved the subtle touches of steaminess and sex. A treat to read during the Christmas season!
I had preordered this a while back for about a dollar, and so that meant pennies for each story. Definitely a good deal!
My favorite out of the bunch of ten was probably Emma Prince's "To Kiss a Governess," which features a "Clara" who has lost her mind after a devastating fire and her caring brother who seeks a sort of companion for her. I loved the Scottish Highlands setting!
Other stories I enjoyed included "Rodrick the Bold," by Susan Tisdale, and "Prelude to the Highlander's Gift," by Eliza Knight. Most of the stories were historical, and two were contemporary. I loved the subtle touches of steaminess and sex. A treat to read during the Christmas season!
October 3, 2017
The Nutcracker Reimagined collection is full of great authors, but my review is for The Mercenary's Bride by Claire Delacroix. The author plunks you down in the middle of action in her novellas to leave you a bite size story that feels like a seven course meal. Quentin is the head of the Laird's guard but faces the Hawk's wrath when he trains the Laird's daughter, Mhairi to be a warrior. Exiled from the keep, he sets out to earn wealth and reputation so he can claim Mhairi for his bride. Left for dead, beaten, maimed and broke, Quentin returns as promised and seeks redemption or death. Full of action, the story unfolds quickly and ends in a sweet HEA. Mhairi's character is strong-willed and resilient for an enjoyable heroine. My voluntary review is based upon a review copy.
October 22, 2017
This review is for The Mercenary's Bride by Claire Delacroix. This was a well-written, entertaining novella. Quentin, Captain of the Guard of an estate, agreed to train one of the estate's daughters, Mhairi, as a warrier. The Hawk dismisses him as a result. Quentin promises Mhairi he will return, and he sets out to earn enough to ask Mhairi to be his bride. Years later he is attacked and left for dead. He returns to the estate to keep his promise to return. Filled with adventure, romance and intrigue, this was a great novella and I look forward to reading more books by this author. I received a copy of this book with no expectation of a review. I have voluntarily posted a review consisting of my honest opinions.
November 6, 2018
Stories in this collection:
The Mercenary’s Bride by Claire Delacroix
Realm of Angels by Katherine Le Veque
Once Upon A Christmas Knight by Barbara Devlin
Rodrick the Bold by Suzan Tisdale
Prelude to the Highlander’s Gift by Eliza Knight
Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen
Christmas at the Inn on Cloud Hill by Tina DeSalvo
One Mystical Moment by Laura Landon
To Kiss A Governess by Emma Prince
All She Wanted For Christmas by Layna Pimentel
Most of these stories didn’t really have much to do with the Nutcracker (a character named Clara was as far as it went for some of them).
Most were DNF for me. The standout was To Kiss A Governess by Emma Prince. I loved it. Made me cry, even with such a short story.
The Mercenary’s Bride by Claire Delacroix
Realm of Angels by Katherine Le Veque
Once Upon A Christmas Knight by Barbara Devlin
Rodrick the Bold by Suzan Tisdale
Prelude to the Highlander’s Gift by Eliza Knight
Brash: Frederick by Hildie McQueen
Christmas at the Inn on Cloud Hill by Tina DeSalvo
One Mystical Moment by Laura Landon
To Kiss A Governess by Emma Prince
All She Wanted For Christmas by Layna Pimentel
Most of these stories didn’t really have much to do with the Nutcracker (a character named Clara was as far as it went for some of them).
Most were DNF for me. The standout was To Kiss A Governess by Emma Prince. I loved it. Made me cry, even with such a short story.
October 17, 2017
A wonderful collection of stories for the Christmas Season. My review is for Kathryn Le Veque's story: "Realm of Angels". This is one of the most wonderful adaptions of the original by E.T.A. Hoffmann. The Hero of our story, was not always an honorable man. He has many regrets-one of which is his treatment of Juliana. Juliana vows to never marry, as she loved and lost her one true love, Rhogan de Garr. Her parents, deciding for her, have allowed a certain gentleman to begin courting her. When the mysterious butcher comes to her aid, the path is set. This story was a beautiful tale of true, unconditional love.
October 12, 2017
The mercenary’s bride
This book is filled with beautiful stories from wonderful authors. I especially like the mercenary’s bride.
This is the first book of Brides of Inverfyre series by Claire Delacroix and she doesn't disappoint the reader. I received the book with no expectation of review and these are my own thoughts.
It’s the story of Mhairi, daughter of the Hawk of Inverfyre and Quentin de Montgomerie who was dismissed ,but promised to return. However things happen, so please read to find out what happened
This book is filled with beautiful stories from wonderful authors. I especially like the mercenary’s bride.
This is the first book of Brides of Inverfyre series by Claire Delacroix and she doesn't disappoint the reader. I received the book with no expectation of review and these are my own thoughts.
It’s the story of Mhairi, daughter of the Hawk of Inverfyre and Quentin de Montgomerie who was dismissed ,but promised to return. However things happen, so please read to find out what happened
October 17, 2017
Love
Excellent story written by Kathryn Le Veque! Rhogan de Garr and Lady Juliana de Nerra are friends.
Princess Augusta of Brabant wanted Rhogan. She offers him a fortune and lands if he would help her. He does and nothing goes right. Four years later Juliana has not forgotten Rhogan.
Now the story begins with Rhogan going to Selborne Castle just to be near Juliana.
Now the best part of the story unfolds! This is a story that should be read to understand that their love is still strong and will survive. You will not regret reading this story!!
Excellent story written by Kathryn Le Veque! Rhogan de Garr and Lady Juliana de Nerra are friends.
Princess Augusta of Brabant wanted Rhogan. She offers him a fortune and lands if he would help her. He does and nothing goes right. Four years later Juliana has not forgotten Rhogan.
Now the story begins with Rhogan going to Selborne Castle just to be near Juliana.
Now the best part of the story unfolds! This is a story that should be read to understand that their love is still strong and will survive. You will not regret reading this story!!
October 16, 2017
The mercenary's bride Short fast read. If you're in need of a good historical romance that can be read quickly, this is for you. Complete story with good background of the main characters, add in adventure, defensive and offensive planning for battle, and romance. A complete package. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
October 19, 2017
This...
This is a wonderful collection of Christmas stories tied together with the Nutcracker theme. Many are works of some of my favorite authors, such as Barbara Devlin's A Christmas Knight. Percy and Margaret's tale of an "arranged marriage" is indicative of the 1800's, but they were fortunate enough to have an abiding love for each other!
This is a wonderful segue into the coming holiday season!
This is a wonderful collection of Christmas stories tied together with the Nutcracker theme. Many are works of some of my favorite authors, such as Barbara Devlin's A Christmas Knight. Percy and Margaret's tale of an "arranged marriage" is indicative of the 1800's, but they were fortunate enough to have an abiding love for each other!
This is a wonderful segue into the coming holiday season!
October 18, 2017
I've read Claire Delacroix's Christmas tale, The Mercenary's Bride. It was an effortless and enjoyable read where you can easily be immersed in Claire Delacroix's medieval world.
I have voluntarily posted a review consisting of my honest opinions.
I have voluntarily posted a review consisting of my honest opinions.
October 28, 2017
A really good collection of stories
Theses short stories vary in time and are variations on the nutcracker theme, but all are complete in of themselves and all are interesting and engaging.
Theses short stories vary in time and are variations on the nutcracker theme, but all are complete in of themselves and all are interesting and engaging.
December 15, 2017
A good anthology
Like any anthology some of the novels are more solid than others. The claire sebaceous and Katherine reVenue were worth the price alone. Each tale has some nutcracker element to it, whether a contemporary western romance or a historical Scottish tale.
Like any anthology some of the novels are more solid than others. The claire sebaceous and Katherine reVenue were worth the price alone. Each tale has some nutcracker element to it, whether a contemporary western romance or a historical Scottish tale.
December 25, 2017
Lovely stories
Sweet short stories of finding love at Christmas time. With a nutcracker theme, but not rigidly sticking to the story they make for light reading, just right to finish quickly. Some of my favorite authors in this group, so I was happy! Good reading!
Sweet short stories of finding love at Christmas time. With a nutcracker theme, but not rigidly sticking to the story they make for light reading, just right to finish quickly. Some of my favorite authors in this group, so I was happy! Good reading!
October 29, 2017
I loved this collection of Christmas tales. Each story sucked me in and when I finished reading the last one, I wished there were more! This will go on my re-read list. Highly recommended.
December 17, 2017
3 dnf, two I want to read more of. Also confirmed that I don't understand the appeal of Scotland and Highlander heroes.
January 5, 2018
A collection of holiday-themed short romance fiction. The quality of the stories varied from OK to dull and formulaic, and it would have benefited from much more rigorous editing.
February 22, 2018
Love how each tale mentions the Nutcracker. Some of the tales leave you wanting for more.
January 4, 2020
I gave most of these books either 3 or 4 stars.
July 29, 2022
joy
A fun twist. Several of the best story tellers taking on The Nutcracker and making a heart warming book full of joy!
A fun twist. Several of the best story tellers taking on The Nutcracker and making a heart warming book full of joy!
November 29, 2017
Excellent tales, some of them additions to series I own. These authors never let me down.
May 7, 2018
Variations of the Nutcracker theme
This is a large set of novellas, many by authors that are well known to me. The stories run from the Scottish Highlands to Montana, from the 13th Century to modern day. All involve some aspect of the nutcracker story. Some are complex, others straightforward.
I usually reserve holiday themed books for December, but that month got away from me. I just finished reading in early March. The authors I was familiar did not disappoint and I enjoyed discovering new authors.
This is a large set of novellas, many by authors that are well known to me. The stories run from the Scottish Highlands to Montana, from the 13th Century to modern day. All involve some aspect of the nutcracker story. Some are complex, others straightforward.
I usually reserve holiday themed books for December, but that month got away from me. I just finished reading in early March. The authors I was familiar did not disappoint and I enjoyed discovering new authors.
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