With This Christmas Ring

Lords of Anarchy #3.5

by Manda Collins

A wallflower determined to fulfill a dying promise, the rogue she jilted years ago, and an orphaned baby are all brought together amidst the magic of Christmas in this novella from Manda Collins.

Miss Merry Parks makes a deathbed promise to a schoolfriend that her infant daughter will be taken to her absent father. There’s only one problem—to find the baby’s father, she’ll have to consult his cousin, Viscount Wrotham, the man she jilted five years ago. The man she couldn’t forget.

Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham, is stunned to find Merry Parks—looking more lovely than ever--on his doorstep with an infant in her arms. His shock soon turns to dismay when he learns his own cousin William is the man who abandoned his wife and child. As head of the family he’s duty bound to see right is done. But he can't let this opportunity pass. He’ll take Merry and the baby to his cousin, but he’ll woo her back in the process.

Merry agrees to travel with Alex and the baby to Wrotham Castle, where the entire Ponsonby family has gathered for Christmas, but her plans to see the baby settled then leave are ruined by a snowstorm. After five years apart, Alex and Merry will spend the week getting reacquainted. Perhaps it’s the spirit of the holiday, or the magic of the season, but there could be something else in the air this Yuletide…A Christmas Reunion.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Christmas, Historical, Novella, Regency, Historical Fiction

184 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 3, 2017

About the author

Manda Collins grew up on a combination of Nancy Drew books and Jane Austen novels, and her own brand of Regency romantic suspense is the result. A former academic librarian, she holds advanced degrees in English Lit and Librarianship. Her books have been favorably reviewed in Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, Bookpage, and USA Today.  A native of Alabama, she lives on the Gulf Coast with a very stubborn cat and more books than are strictly necessary. 

Reviews

[Selene · Rating 3 out of 5]

Genre: Romance (Historical)
POVs: Dual, 3rd person
Writing style: 3/5
Pacing: Fast
HEA? Yes!

One reviewer called this story charming and it simply was! This book was lovely with heartwarming characters, a straightforward plot, and very likable side characters. I don't usually read historical romance novels but this one was a short read and I enjoyed it!

✔ Second-chance romance
✔ Grandma drama
✔ Upper versus lower class foolery

*NetGalley ARC kindly provided by St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Merry Parks had done what any good friend would do when at her friend's deathbed, she had promised to take care of her friend's baby and see that the infant daughter would be reunited with her father. There's only one obstacle in the way of Merry keeping that promise, in order to find the baby's father she'd going to have to speak with Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham. Alex is the cousin of the baby's father but he is also the man that Merry had ended things with five years before but she's a lady of her word and determined to take care of the child.

Traveling with an infant as a single lady is a bit tougher than Merry expected but she makes her way to Alex's door and informs him of needing to find his cousin, William. As the head of his family Alex takes the matter very seriously and is determined to help Merry in her quest to reunite father and daughter but he also wouldn't mind reuniting himself with Merry along the way. The two travel to Wrotham Castle where the family is gathered for Christmas and find themselves stranded by a snowstorm giving them time to rekindle the flame that once was between them.

With This Christmas Ring by Manda Collins is a historical romance novella that of course takes place during the Christmas season. While this book is a relatively short read the author did pack a ton into the pages. It helped that the couple in question in the story had a background between them too so it didn't feel as if it was a case of insta-love with having such a short space to establish a relationship.

Along with the idea of bringing a former couple back together the story had plenty of other content to the point that I wondered if it wasn't bordering on maybe a tad too much for the length and could have benefited from being a bit longer. But on the flip side it certainly kept it a bit more interesting to not just rush the romance and be done with the story so I didn't take too much off my rating as I did enjoy this little holiday historical novella.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Circumstances throw Merry and Alex together after Merry ended their engagement five years ago. Merry was bullied by Alex’s grandmother, the dowager Lady Wrotham, to break things off unbeknownst to Alex. The moment they lay eyes on each other again the attraction and longing rush right back up, but Merry doesn’t expect Alex to give her a second chance. However, it doesn’t seem Alex is holding a grudge, he’s had some time to think about the past and suspects his grandmother had a hand in ending things so when Merry shows up in his life again, he’s determined to take this opportunity to set things right and find happiness with Merry at long last.

With This Christmas Ring was a sweet, second chance romance that warmed my heart. There’s no drama between Alex and Merry once they meet up again. They are truthful and bond over the loss and longing they’ve felt since parting. All conflict comes from outside sources and they meet those problems head on, as a united front.

The Holiday setting will get you in the mood to take a snowy sleigh ride, snuggling up to your loved one, staying warm under blankets and the heat of attraction.

A copy was kindly provided by Swerve via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the truths come to light, love wins.

I really enjoyed reading With This Christmas Ring. It was a fairly short story about reacquainting with lost loves and finding the spark still flicker to a flame when together. In this case, the time apart for the hero and heroine is 5 years and in that time neither had really moved on. Both knew they had broken away from the love of their lives, but neither thought it would be possible to reunite. With the birth of a friends child, the chance to reconnect brings all of their feeling to light.

It’s amazing what you’ll believe when you’re not feeling confident in yourself or in love. Insecurities and doubts can make you question your feelings. Only with maturity can you see the light through the trees. Luckily, when the time comes for them to face their doubts and insecurities the second time around, they're ready to stand up for what they believe in.

The characters were engaging, the storyline interesting and the hero and heroine's love and heartache believable. I knew that they were meant to be together and I was convinced that they had learnt their lesson and were perfect for each other. I loved the mention of a few familiar characters and hearing how their love stories were perceived in their sphere.

If you enjoy a quick trip into the past, enjoy catching up with friends and seeing good beat evil, then I definitely recommend With This Christmas Ring.

Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Five years ago, Miss Merry Parks left her fiancé, Alexander Ponsonby after someone used her insecurities against her to manipulate her into leaving. They both moved on with their lives as best they could, but when Merry's good friend Charlotte dies shortly after asking her to find her husband, Alexander's cousin, and to make sure he takes responsibility for their daughter, Merry is forced to seek out the man she never really stopped loving.

This was a nice Christmas novella. I really liked both main characters. They are both good people, who simply didn't trust their love was strong enough when they were young and easily influenced. I understood both their actions (her leaving, him not fighting for her sooner), and I liked seeing them getting together and realizing there was still something there, and seeing that they have both grown stronger. The wonderful characterization really saved this for me because of the thing I didn't like. There were a LOT of hurtful, despicable people doing things I personally wouldn't have forgiven. There were times I really wanted those two to cut ties to certain members of their family and banish those people from their lives. But I guess since Christmas is supposedly the season of forgiveness and all...

All in all, this was an enjoyable story about two really nice people, and the writing and the characterization was just lovely, so I'm rounding up my 3.5 rating to 4 stars :)

[Andrea Way · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC Review Received from St Martins Press & Netgalley***

Wow, this made me cry right from the start. I loved this story and the plot was really good. Alex and Merry (good Xmas name), have a past. It's nice to see them trying to work out that past. A great historical romance that will get you in the mood for the holiday season.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

'With This Christmas Ring' by Manda Collins is the Story of Miss Merry Parks and Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham.
Merry good friend has died but asked a 'death bed' request that Merry take her child to his father, William. William is the cousin of Alex who Merry had jilted several years ago. But now she needs Alex's help in finding William.
Alex is shocked to see Merry on his door step and goes forward with helping her locate William. But Alex is set on wooing Merry back along the way.
This was such a joy to read their story!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...

[Arlena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: With This Christmas Ring
Author: Manda Collins
Publisher: Swerve
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"With This Christmas Ring" by Manda Collins

My Thoughts....

What a good holiday romance read of just what can happen when a love lost will be found once again that will definite capture the wonderful feeling of the true spirit of this holiday season. I found this short novella story to be well written from the start to the finish that will definite keep your attention. This was one of those read that will have you shaking your head as this story unfolds that tells 'the tale of a pair of lovers that were truly torn apart by the conspiracies of a particular family member.' What will happen when all of the story comes out from traveling to Wrotham Castle? Will these two [Merry & Alex] that had been torn apart be able to work toward their HEA? Well, to find out you will have to pick up "With This Christmas Ring" to find out.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a delightful Regency second-chance romance. Betrothed five years ago for just one day, Miss Merry Parks left the home of her fiancé, Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham, without explaining why other than leaving him a note. Now she has to face him again because her friend died giving birth and Merry promised the dying woman to take the baby to the child’s father who is the cousin of Alex. Alex certainly hadn’t anticipated Merry arriving on his doorstep with a baby in her arms! When he discovers the baby girl’s father is his cousin, William, he agrees to help Merry take the child to William - who is staying in the family home, Wrotham Castle - planning to win back Merry’s love whilst doing so.

This is a festive novella, packed with surprises along the way. A snowstorm leaves Merry staying in the Castle, along with a scheming grandmother, family secrets and potential wives for the man she loves! There’s danger from an unexpected quarter, a new romance and a romance rekindled in this lovely Christmas read. I found it a lovely story to escape into with great characters and a plot packed with intrigue and surprises - especially some of the explanations given! I have no hesitation in recommending this entertaining seasonal historical romance to anyone who enjoys this genre.

I was gifted copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.

[HR-ML · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet Regency.

Alex (a viscount) & Merry received a 2nd chance @ love.
He had gamma qualities, with strong alpha male over-
tones. Merry excelled at Greek & Latin translations and
assisted her scholar father but never received official
recognition for her work.

Merry wanted to ensure excellent care for her late BFF
Charlotte's infant Lottie. Charlotte's spouse William
deserted her, soon after the wedding. By coincidence
Will was the cousin of Merry's former fiancé Alex. The
family of Alex celebrated the holiday in the country.

Mean girl guests (age-wise "adults") @ the country
home of Alex, hosted by his grandmother, subjected
Merry to insults and innuendos. These girls made
assumptions w/o any proof. Merry outsmarted them.
Alex corrected them & defended Merry. A chilling event
occurred to Merry & 2 others which required magistrate
intervention but those present didn't feel compelled to
call the magistrate (huh?).

Overall a pleasant read. Alex "kissed Merry breathless"
summed up the book for me.

[Jenny Q · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first time reading Manda Collins, and I was delighted to discover that she writes beautifully! Here we have a tale of two people in love who were thwarted by the meddling of a domineering family matriarch. When Merry's friend Charlotte dies shortly after childbirth, Merry vows to track down the man who got her pregnant and left her to make him take responsibility for his child, a child Merry is already becoming attached to. The problem is that in fulfilling her vow she has to turn to Alex, the man whose heart she broke five years earlier when she allowed his grandmother to convince her that she would make Alex a miserable match. But when she sees him again, all the feelings she's tried to squash for so long come rushing back.

When Merry shows up on his doorstep, Alex thinks fate has given him a second chance. Determined to discover why Merry left him all those years ago, he convinces her that spending the holidays at his country estate will be the best way to reunite the baby with her father, who happens to be Alex's cousin. And when a snowstorm makes it impossible for her to leave, the stage is set for him to win back the woman he never stopped loving. And what better time to do it than during the magic of the holiday season?

Novellas make storytelling a little challenging, and plot points and/or backstories often have to be detailed or resolved quickly. I would have liked to see more of Merry and Alex's courtship when they first fell in love so I could understand why their feelings had never faded over so much time apart, and I would have liked to see more personal interaction between them as they realized they still wanted a future together. As it is, they spend most of their time talking about other people (the baby, his cousin, his grandmother), so I did not get the sense that they were truly rediscovering what they loved about each other. I also would have liked a little more Christmas. We have lots of greenery and a sleigh ride, but that's about it by way of yuletide festivities and traditions.

But overall it's a sweet romance with engaging characters and a nice way to kick off the Christmas reading season.

[JoRead · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet yet emotional and passionate story. Tie-in for both of the author’s Studies in Scandal and Lords of Anarchy however it can definitely be read as a stand alone.

The last person Merry wanted to see was her former fiancé however she was willing to do everything within her power to give her dead friend’s child the family she deserved. Alex never understood the reason Merry jilted him and when she appeared at his door seeking his cousin, he knew that was the perfect opportunity to find answers and perhaps ask for a second chance at love.

I very much liked that the story started with Merry as a take-charge, brave, and intelligent woman however as the story progressed her attitude sort of changed and she started to sound meek, or perhaps insecure, and that gave me a"what-happened-to-her?" kind of sense. It wasn’t too bad but it still took away from the overall enjoyment of the story.
Her chemistry with Alex was nonetheless well-balanced. He was sweet, honorable, and passionate. He was a man of his word who respected family and friends immensely, particularly his grandmother given that she was the one who had taken care of him since he was a child. He never pushed Merry to do anything she didn’t want and allowed her time to think and answer all of his questions. I think both their characters were well rounded in the sense that we get to understand what got them to be where they are and how much they deserved their HEA.
I’m not so sure what to think about the villains, though. One of the arcs sounded inconclusive and even implausible and the other one, well, I’m still wondering about that one. Still, the main romantic arc was what made this story worth my time and I do recommend it to anyone looking for a Christmas romantic story.

** I received this book from the author at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***

[Erin Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read Manda Collins before, but was delighted to have a chance to read her Christmas novella. Honestly, this reads more like a novel. The characters are well-developed; the story doesn't feel shortened or like there was anything left out. It is a perfect historical read for this time of year.

The Story-
Merry made a promise to keep the dying wish of her friend to return her baby to its father. The problem is, the father is cousins with the man she jilted years ago, but still loves. Alex could never understand why Merry ended their engagement, but now that she has come back into his life, he doesn't intend on letting her get away again,

My Thoughts-
I was a little concerned that the baby plot would make this too sweet for me, but it really didn't. The Christmas setting was just enough to put me in the holiday spirit without feeling like I overdosed on gingerbread. What surprised me here was how well the characters are developed and how complete the plot felt in a shorter book. Motivations all made sense; there were even great secondary characters rounding out the story. Pacing was great, and it left me with a happy little sigh.

The Bottom Line-
If you enjoy historical romance and want an easy read with a lovely Christmas setting, this is the perfect book for you. The baby stuff is not overdone, so if you aren't a kid person, don't be put off. This has enough heat, sweet, and mistletoe to make you smile this season. 4 stars

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful second chance romance novella. I have thoroughly enjoyed every Manda Collins book I have read and this is certainly no exception. You immediately like both the hero and heroine because they are both nice, considerate and very loving individuals and what happened the first time around is a real shame!

Five years ago Miss Merry Parks and Alexander Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham were engaged. They loved each other, but Merry let her insecurities cause her to call off the engagement and leave him. He’s never forgotten her nor has he loved anyone else – and the same is true for her.

Merry’s best friend, Charlotte, has just passed away during childbirth. With her dying breath, Charlotte asks Merry to see that her daughter, Lottie, is united with her father. Charlotte and William were married, but he’d abandoned her just days after the ceremony. It turns out that William is Alex’s cousin. Merry vows that she’ll unite father and daughter – no matter what it takes – even seeking the aid of Alex to help her find his cousin.

As soon as Merry and Alex see each other again, they realize they are still as much in love as ever. Alex is determined to win Merry back in any way he can. So, he gets her to go with him to his country estate because that is where his cousin is – for a Christmas celebration.

You actually get two HEA’s in this novella – and that is really sweet. Seeing all Alex and Merry have gone through and seeing them come together to rekindle their love and find their HEA is great.

I hope you will read and enjoy this novella as much as I did.

"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."

[Jaci · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Christmas love stories and this novella by Manda is amazing. A second chance at love is one of my favorite tropes and this one was perfect from beginning to end. Manda knows how to keep her readers captivated with her wonderful characters. and her wonderful stories.

Merry Parks hasn't seen Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham since she abruptly ended their engagement. Now she is on his doorstep with an infant looking for his cousin, who is apparently the father of the infant. All the feelings that she had buried five years ago came rushing back as soon as she saw Alex. Alex is absolutely dumbfounded to see Merry in his house and realizes that he never really got over her rejection of him.

They will join forces to help William, his cousin, and the infant. Alex decides that he hasn't been really happy for five years and is determined to find out why Merry broke their engagement and win her back. Merry feels the same but she knows that if she tells him why she broke off the wedding it could hurt his relationship with a certain member of his family. Alex convinces her to let him court her again. Will the secret that she is keeping from him ruin their chance of a HAE?

I absolutely recommend this Christmas novella by Manda.Collins. A perfect read for a cozy seat and a cup of hot chocolate or a great glass of wine.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a not too long holiday story that packs a wallop in a short tale. After a deathbed promise to her school friend that she will take her infant daughter to her absent father, Miss Merry Parks begins her mission. However, there is one big glitch in the mission: she must go to Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham, whom she cannot forget since she jilted him five years ago, since the little girl’s father is his cousin, to find out where the father is. When he learns that his cousin, William, abandoned his child and wife, Alex, with a sense of family honor, agrees to take Merry to William—while, at the same time, he persuades Merry to come back to him. Along with Alex, Merry and the little girl travel to Wrotham Castle, where the family has gathered for the holiday, to find William. A snowstorm interferes with Merry’s plan to leave as soon as the girl is delivered, and Merry and Alex spend the next week getting acquainted. Can Alex succeed? The holiday season make this wish of Alex a reality?

This is a nice, holiday romance of love lost and found again. It was interesting to watch the dynamic between Merry and Alex, as they moved through their reunion. The story captures the true spirit of this holiday season well. The writing is likewise well done, with the story moving smoothly and easily along from start to finish. I enjoyed reading it, and it definitely made me feel “Christmassy”, though right now, in September, it is a bit early for that. This is a short work that will make the reader also get into the spirit of the Christmas season, I think. I recommend it as a quick interlude read for this reason, or, if the reader wants something short and sweet, filled with the holiday spirit. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely delightful second chance at love Christmas novella.

While this is billed as a Lords of Anarchy novella, it has a nice little tie into the Study in Scandals series as well.

Merry Parks was betrothed to Alex, Viscount Wrotham five years ago, but for seemingly no reason, she broke off their engagement and left Alex with no explanation.

Fast forward Five years, Merry's dearest friend Charlotte has passed away from a childbed fever, but she has made Merry promised to find the baby's father. The baby's father happens to be Alex's cousin. Willing to do whatever she must to find the father, she goes to see Alex.

Alex has never gotten over Merry and still doesn't understand why she left him. When they meet again he realizes that he still loves her and will use this opportunity to woo her again.

He invites her to his family's Christmas gathering, telling her the baby's father will be there, she reluctantly agrees to go. She thought she put her feelings for Alex in the past, but seeing him again, makes her realize that she still has strong feeling for him and she is not sure she can walk away again.

What follows is a well written, nicely paced, very sweet story of lost love found, secrets revealed, jealous harpies reeking havoc, a bit of steam and a very lovely HEA.

I would be happy to recommend this book, which is part of the LOA series, but could easily be read as a stand alone title.

*I a voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With This Christmas Ring was a truly delightful read. This story has a little bit of everything, fun Christmas spirit, devoted friendship, a reunited couple, a little suspense and a sweet Christmas baby. Manda Collins introduces her readers to two very likable characters in Merry Parks and Alexander Ponsby, Viscount Wrotham. I liked both characters so much that I cheered them on to getting together as I read the story. I felt they truly belonged together.

The annual Christmas house party takes place at Wrotham Castle as usual. Grandmama has invited family and her upper crust friends to the house party. Too bad Grandmama is going to be surprised by the arrival of some unexpected guests traveling to Wrotham castle from London. Not only is Grandmama going to be surprised by the arrival of these guests but we find out that she is also greatly displeased. Alexander Ponsby, Viscount Wrotham is back in England after visiting his mother in France and he doesn't care if the family matriarch is displeased. Andrew is more than a little displeased with his grandmother and has decided to take charge of all the family affairs himself finally.

If you want to find out what Grandmama did and why she is so displeased about the surprise guests, who disappears and what happens then, you will have to pick up this fun Christmas story and find out for yourself.

[Katherine Hayward Pérez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merry's luck changes when she is asked by the Viscount's cousin Alex to stay at his huge home for a week because of the bad weather. This is five years after she jilted her lover, who is none other than him.
it is not through fortunate circumstances that she is even at to the house, though. Her friend Charlotte died in childbirth. She is there to comply with Charlotte's dying wish that her newborn daughter Lottie be looked after and returned to his father, Will .

I was drawn into the story from the first page and liked Merry's rapport with Alex as the story moved on, but felt that some of the other characters were very opinionated. We did get an insight into their relationships in the book and customs of the time that the book was written in. It is a story of secrets, revelations and relationships.

Alex wants Merry to be his wife. Alex has his own difficult past. His dad abused his mum and she left him and Alex when Alex was just nine years old.
Alex's Grandmother made his mum as unomfy as possible in the house, and she left.

There are conflicts lies and scandals. The grandmother, who is the one who is seems to rule the house, explains what she did and she claimed it was "best for the family" by sending Charlotte and then Merry. away.

Will is also looking for love. Potential brides for him, who we meet at a Christmas family gathering, include Lady Katherine and Emily Delaford. Merry, who is shocked to find Will has a passing interest in her, has a plainer appearance than Katherine, and she is not wealthy.

Lady Katherine, however, does not want to marry Will.

Merry keeps thinking about Lottie's well-being.

People have very deep rooted feelings and reactions to what happened all those years ago. Lottie is judged as illegitimate by some but she is legitimate.

Despite all the tension rumours and goings-on, there is a Christmas atmosphere as well as snow. There is sledding and excitement.

The novella is a great Christmas story and is well written with a good pace. Alex obviously wants to impress Merry. He is accommodating, welcoming and caring. When they all go house-to-house at Christmas, it is a good way for the reader to meet the other characters in the book.

It really shows the spirit of the season. Emily sounds manipulative towards Lady Katherine and Merry too.

There's tension and worry as well as concern for others. Emily is a liar. There is lots of action and working together to search for them. I suspected something would happen between her, Lady Katherine and Merry, but wasn't sure what. I thought it could be something involving jealousy, wickedness or lies.

The story had me interested as well is worried in some parts.
I hoped that Alex and Merry could work things out because of what they feel for each other.

I could not believe how cruel Emily was. Effie seems a good caring maid, which is good.
Will wants to do everything he can for Lottie. Merry is brave. Her bravery and determination as well as resilience shows through. It is a story of love, scandal secrets lies and deceit but a good historical romance with some very sexy scenes in some parts of the book.

I hope to read more by Manda Collins . My heart was in my mouth at some parts. As a bonus, this title has an excerpt from the next book in the series. It is a great extra which seems to be based in the town of little Seaford which was mentioned in this first book.

Thank you to St Martin's press for an ARC of this book and also thank you Manda Collins for this excellent book. This is one of the books that will be featured in my SMP Romance Blitz post in October. The only reason why I gave this book 4 and not 5 stars was that it ended too soon....I'd have loved for it to be a full novel, but it is an increadibly well-thought-out festive read.

[Phoenix77 · Rating 4 out of 5]

With This Christmas Ring is a delightful holiday story full of second chances. A couple has the chance to clear up the misunderstandings that pulled them apart years before and in true Christmas fashion, a child’s birth brings everyone joy, love and the miracle of a happy ending.

Five years ago Miss Merry Parks and Alexander Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham were engaged to marry. Their courtship had been a whirlwind affair but for each of them it was a perfect match. Merry saw Alex as a man who would love and appreciate his family before all others; Alex appreciated Merry’s intelligence and her kind heart. The only formalities left before they posted the bans were for Merry to meet the rest of the Ponsonby family, including Alex’s grandmother the dowager Viscountess. That fateful meeting between the young, insecure Merry and the formidable family matriarch changed everything and suddenly the engagement was off. Merry returned to her father’s home to serve as his secretary and try to heal her wounded heart. Her love for Alex never waned but her life soon became a routine of academic studies and supporting her friends whenever they needed her.

That need brings everything full circle when Merry’s best friend Charlotte dies giving birth to a baby girl. Before she passes, Charlotte reveals that she had been married in secret to Mr. William Ponsonby, cousin of Merry’s former betrothed. Merry swears to her friend that she will care for the baby and reunite the child with her father but Charlotte can’t tell her where William might be. Merry understands that to fulfil Charlotte’s dying wish she will have to reunite with Alex and hope that he will help her despite their uncomfortable parting years before.

Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Merry Parks has just brought a baby into her family’s home, Parks House. The child’s mother and Merry’s friend, Charlotte Smithson, has just passed away from a fever. The baby’s name is Lottie and now Merry must find her a wet nurse. Merry had promised Charlotte that she would find the baby’s father, William. Of course. Merry realizes that her own father, Thomas Parks, a classics scholar may surely object to the baby being in the house.

Chalotte had eloped with the baby’s father who then left and didn’t return. He told her before he left to call at Wrotham House in Berkley Square, but they had turned her away. William is a cousin to Alexander Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham.

Alexander and Merry had once been engaged but Merry broke it off. That was five years ago. Alexander is still hurting from it. So, when Merry brings Lottie to his home asking him to find William, the baby’s father, Alexander agrees.

William is at the Wrotham family home, called Wrotham Keep, for the Christmas holidays. Their grandmother is the matriarch of the family. At Alexander’s request, Merry agrees to take Lottie to the Keep for the holidays.

How will Merry and Lottie be treated at the Keep? We meet William and learn about his past and why he left Charlotte. We also learn why Merry broke off her engagement to Alexander. Could there possible by a chance for them yet?

This is a cleverly written story with some twists and turns that I found very well written. I don’t want to give out any more clues due to spoilers. Suffice to say, I think readers will enjoy this book.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Manda Collins is an author with whom I am newly acquainted. I am enjoying working my way through her Studies in Scandal series and was delighted with the chance to read an eARC of the novella With This Christmas Ring. Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press! I enjoyed it!

I'm not generally a fan of the novella because the short length tends to keep the reader from fully understanding the character's personalities, the plot is generally rushed, and it doesn't allow for the characters to have a fully believable emotional attachment that would bring them to a Happy Ever After. Generally. This story, however, side steps most of these issues easily and with great aplomb. By giving the hero and heroine, Alexander and Merry, a past relationship - and a broken engagement - it isn't difficult to believe that the past feelings could be easily rekindled during the week in which this story is set. Add in a heroine on a mission, familial misunderstandings, a mild abduction followed by a happy reunion, and a villain that is really not so bad....and voila, you have this book!

In general, the writing was solid. The pacing was a bit uneven and I wish the plot was a bit tighter. It lost one star because I would have liked a HEA for Will and Lady Katherine, as well as more explanation for Emily's behaviors. The second star is because of the overuse of the word "sanguine." I stopped counting around the 5th or 6th use.

But, overall, it did a great job of putting me in a Christmas mood and looking forward to the Holiday season and reading more books by Manda Collins! Give it a whirl, you'll enjoy it, too!

[Cathy Geha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Merry Parks has not had a reason to see the man she once was betrothed to – not for five long years. When a friend dies in childbirth Merry takes it upon herself to put the new babe, Lottie, in the hands of the Ponsonby family so the father, William, can raise her. That means she must contact Alexander, Lord Wrotham – the man who was once her fiancé. When they meet the chemistry is still there AND Alexander wants to know why Merry left so suddenly when all seemed so perfect between them. With a trip to the family estate, a baby girl to give to her father, a domineering grandmother to face, daunting social scenes to deal with and Christmas in the air – well – it is not as easy as waving a magic wand and saying abracadabra for Merry and Alexander to find their HEA – but eventually they do.

This is a Christmas story with a bit of drama that includes a second romance on the side. If you are looking for a quick easy Christmas read set in the past that includes a second chance at love for two deserving people then this might be the book for you.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press – Swerve for the ARC – this is my honest review.

3-4 Stars

[Jennifer Schultheis · Rating 5 out of 5]

With This Christmas Ring by Manda Collins gives two people a second chance at romance. Miss Merry Parks has to fulfill a dying promise to her friend. She will deliver her friend’s daughter to her father…the only problem is, she has to go through the man’s cousin first, Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham…the same man she left jilted years ago. Alex will lead her to his cousin, but on the way, he’ll gain her heart again.

With This Christmas Ring is filled with heartwarming characters, who make this historical read a winning holiday romance. A quick read filled with emotion and depth and of course, a happy ending!

[Tam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is just the right story to get you into the Christmas spirit early. These characters are likable and easy to cheer on toward a happy ending. The plot is filled with warmth and depth and so much love. It was an all around feel good type of read.

*I received a complimentary copy of this story from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.

[Amary Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sweet Christmas themed historical weaves the tale of a pair of lovers torn apart by the machinations of a family member, reuniting at Christmas for the sake of an innocent newborn.
The baby is not theirs, but to carry out Mery's promise to the babe's dying mother, they introduce Lottie to her father, Will, cousin to Alexander Ponsonby, the Viscount of Wrotham and Miss Merry Parks' love.
The pair travel to Wrotham Keep where Will is spending the holiday and struggle through the fact Merry is not welcomed there and actually comes near to harm....but both Merry and Alex and already decided that the separation should never have happened. Determined nothing will come between them,
they work toward their HEA and succeed.
This Christmas tale is a sweet romance with some angst and an uplifting ending.
I requested and received an ARC from NetGalley ...to my delight.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 4 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I really enjoyed this whole book!  It was a genuinely delightful story that made me smile and I felt happier after I'd read it - it's a (not that short at 184 pages) and sweet novella that is set at a great pace, I really didn't feel like the book was that long as I read it in an afternoon.  The characters are great and believable, the plot is great as the romance builds up nicely and you feel it grow with the story - 4 stars from me, a feel good romance!

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

With This Christmas Ring by Manda Collins  
Tragedy sets in motion the seeds of a second chance in Manda Collins emotionally charged, but highly romantic, With This Christmas Ring. Amazing that although written as a historical romance, it didn't read like one.  Ms. Collins touches on subjects that are relevant no matter what time period.  Love and loss are emotions we all deal with and hope never goes out of style.  

[Lady · Rating 3 out of 5]

Manda Collins is a creative writer. Imo short stories are difficult to write because character's circumstances should feel believable and the story cannot feel rushed or lacking details.

In this Christmas novella themes of redemption, forgiveness, sharing, and a hint of mystery were interesting however the story felt lacking with quick resolutions.

The main characters are likable, but I wanted more fleshed-out backstory revealing why they were worthy of a second chance. 3 Stars.

[Rose Blue · Rating 4 out of 5]

As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: http://wp.me/p3QRh4-F0

Merry Parks has just said a final farewell to her dear friend, Charlotte, who died shortly after giving birth to a daughter. Charlotte swore that she and the baby's father were legally married, and begged Merry to deliver the baby to her father to raise. Merry promises her friend that she will do this, even though it will bring her to the home of a man she never wants to see again, her former fiancé, Alex.

Alexander Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham, is shocked when his former fiancée, Merry, shows up at his home with a child, claiming that his cousin, Will, is the baby's father. Five years ago, he and Merry were wildly in love and engaged to be married, when Merry abruptly ended their engagement. Alex never received a satisfactory explanation why, and Merry refused all further contact with him. Seeing Merry now brings back his feelings of love and longing, and he's determined to find the reason Merry chose to leave him. He requests that Merry bring the baby to Wrotham Castle, where Will and the rest of his family will be celebrating Christmas.

With much trepidation, Merry agrees, though she refuses to stay, only planning to see the baby properly acknowledged and settled in before she returns home. It's very painful seeing Alex again, as she never stopped loving him. She only ended their engagement due to pressure from someone in his family, and didn't tell him the true reason why because she didn't want to cause a family rift. She is barely through the door when she begins to be the target of veiled (and not so veiled) insults from some of his family. Thankfully, Will acknowledges the baby as his, and Merry begins to make arrangements to leave, only to find that the weather has other plans.

Alex thanks his lucky stars for the snowy weather, because he has decided that not only will he have answers from Merry, he intends to win her back. He is very forthright with Merry, letting her know his intentions almost from the beginning, and I loved this. Alex isn't stupid, and he had his suspicions all along about why Merry left, and if his belief is true, he's ready to make some changes.

I can admire Merry's good intentions in not wanting to cause a breach between Alex and his family, yet at the same time, I was disappointed that she was unwilling to confide in him, and was willing to let such a strong love go. She's a stronger person now, and I cheered as she stood up for herself and decided to reach out for happiness. Alex is stronger now, too, and nothing is more important than building a future with the woman he never stopped loving. Their reconciliation is sweet and steamy, with Alex showing how honorable and passionate he truly is.

WITH THIS CHRISTMAS RING is a warm and romantic story with a second chance at love for two very deserving people. I loved seeing how Merry and Alex changed from five years ago, yet their love remained steadfast. Author Manda Collins showed the villain trying to paint himself/herself in a more favorable light, and offering rationalization for their actions, but I didn't completely buy it. This did, however, allow for there not to be a total breach in the family, which was Merry's initial fear, and neatly wrapped up any loose ends. I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging read with the Christmas happy ever after for Alex and Merry.