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Playful Brides #10
Kiss Me at Christmas
A spirited lady facing spinsterhood. A common man with a noble mission. And a surprise that just might be waiting for them under the mistletoe. . .
Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf abhors Christmas. Carol singing and holiday cheer only remind him of a dark time. When a close friend calls on him for help, Daffin is happy to capitalize on the distraction. But when he learns the lovely Lady Regina is the one in danger, he’s to become bodyguard to the captivating woman…
Regina has one mission: to find a night of passion in the arms of a gentleman. Considered firmly on the shelf, Regina has given up on marriage—but that doesn’t mean she wants to be denied the pleasure married ladies experience. Daffin has long captured her attention…and when a threat calls him to her side, the sparks between them ignite. But how can a hired bodyguard find his way into Regina’s noble heart?
Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf abhors Christmas. Carol singing and holiday cheer only remind him of a dark time. When a close friend calls on him for help, Daffin is happy to capitalize on the distraction. But when he learns the lovely Lady Regina is the one in danger, he’s to become bodyguard to the captivating woman…
Regina has one mission: to find a night of passion in the arms of a gentleman. Considered firmly on the shelf, Regina has given up on marriage—but that doesn’t mean she wants to be denied the pleasure married ladies experience. Daffin has long captured her attention…and when a threat calls him to her side, the sparks between them ignite. But how can a hired bodyguard find his way into Regina’s noble heart?
301 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 30, 2018
73 people are currently reading
1452 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Bowman
57 books1,572 followersValerie Bowman is an award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance.
Valerie’s debut novel was published in 2012. Since then, her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus. She’s been an RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance and Best Historical Romance Love and Laughter. Two of her books have been nominated for the Kirkus Prize for fiction.
Valerie grew up in Illinois with six sisters (she’s number seven) and a huge supply of romance novels. After a cold and snowy stint earning a degree in English Language and Literature with a minor in history at Smith College, she moved to Florida the first chance she got. Valerie now lives in Jacksonville with her family including her rascally dogs. When she’s not writing, she keeps busy reading, traveling, or vacillating between watching crazy reality TV and PBS.
Visit Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and sign-up for her newsletter at: https://valeriebowmanbooks.com/newsle...
Be sure to follow Valerie Bookbub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/valer...
Valerie’s debut novel was published in 2012. Since then, her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus. She’s been an RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance and Best Historical Romance Love and Laughter. Two of her books have been nominated for the Kirkus Prize for fiction.
Valerie grew up in Illinois with six sisters (she’s number seven) and a huge supply of romance novels. After a cold and snowy stint earning a degree in English Language and Literature with a minor in history at Smith College, she moved to Florida the first chance she got. Valerie now lives in Jacksonville with her family including her rascally dogs. When she’s not writing, she keeps busy reading, traveling, or vacillating between watching crazy reality TV and PBS.
Visit Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and sign-up for her newsletter at: https://valeriebowmanbooks.com/newsle...
Be sure to follow Valerie Bookbub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/valer...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
October 24, 2018
I am so very torn…
On the one hand, I absolutely adored the romance between these two extraordinary people! To begin with, I love that Daffin and Regina had already met and flirted in the book before, so already had an established relationship. It was nice to see them again and to have their story unfurl. I loved that Regina knew what she wanted - i.e. to not have to marry the boring aristocrat her family picked out for her just because she is almost thirty, but be cherished, and just ONCE get to make a choice for herself in a life that has been mapped out for her every step of the way by someone else. I loved that she was independent and strong without coming across as willful, selfish, or just immature. She was an amazing lead. And Daffin was, ok maybe not just as wonderful, but close. He's a Good Guy, a Bow Street Runner with a terrible past, but not just a clichéd hurt idiot who pushes the heroine away because he doesn't believe in love because of his tragic past. There was so much more to him, and I loved how they slowly got to know each other, peeling away the layers, and seeing the other person how they really are. It was such a wonderful story!!!
But then, there was the drama. Ok, I figure that kind of comes with this author's books, but this time, even the hero remarked that the bad guy's scheme just made absolutely no sense! And he was not wrong… The last few chapters were just one crazy thing after an other, and it was too much for me. I felt like the romance just fell short because things had to happen. And it didn't even bring them closer together or anything. I could have lived without all of it. Especially the explanation of the bad guy's motives. That was just too far-fetched for me, bordering on ridiculous.
So. Wonderful romance with truly amazing characters, but a second half that I just didn't enjoy. 3.5 stars! For anyone who needs some spy drama with their romance, go check this out. You will not be disappointed!
*I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
On the one hand, I absolutely adored the romance between these two extraordinary people! To begin with, I love that Daffin and Regina had already met and flirted in the book before, so already had an established relationship. It was nice to see them again and to have their story unfurl. I loved that Regina knew what she wanted - i.e. to not have to marry the boring aristocrat her family picked out for her just because she is almost thirty, but be cherished, and just ONCE get to make a choice for herself in a life that has been mapped out for her every step of the way by someone else. I loved that she was independent and strong without coming across as willful, selfish, or just immature. She was an amazing lead. And Daffin was, ok maybe not just as wonderful, but close. He's a Good Guy, a Bow Street Runner with a terrible past, but not just a clichéd hurt idiot who pushes the heroine away because he doesn't believe in love because of his tragic past. There was so much more to him, and I loved how they slowly got to know each other, peeling away the layers, and seeing the other person how they really are. It was such a wonderful story!!!
But then, there was the drama. Ok, I figure that kind of comes with this author's books, but this time, even the hero remarked that the bad guy's scheme just made absolutely no sense! And he was not wrong… The last few chapters were just one crazy thing after an other, and it was too much for me. I felt like the romance just fell short because things had to happen. And it didn't even bring them closer together or anything. I could have lived without all of it. Especially the explanation of the bad guy's motives. That was just too far-fetched for me, bordering on ridiculous.
So. Wonderful romance with truly amazing characters, but a second half that I just didn't enjoy. 3.5 stars! For anyone who needs some spy drama with their romance, go check this out. You will not be disappointed!
*I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
November 26, 2018
I can't resist a holiday historical romance, and though I haven't read any of the previous books in the Playful Brides series, I decided to just jump in. Unfortunately, while Kiss Me at Christmas by Valerie Bowman was nice, it didn't rise above that.
My favorite thing about this book was how sex-positive the female MC was. She was going to get her man and her good time, goddamnit, and I liked that about her. I also liked the male MC, who had his own reasons to resist our female MC, and his own past to contend with.
What bothered me was the plot. It seemed to ramble on, and I lost my interest at times. The end was very melodramatic, and I didn't even get that holiday spirit that I was so looking forward to.
While the story was pleasant, I need to keep searching for my 2018 historical Christmas nirvana story.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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My favorite thing about this book was how sex-positive the female MC was. She was going to get her man and her good time, goddamnit, and I liked that about her. I also liked the male MC, who had his own reasons to resist our female MC, and his own past to contend with.
What bothered me was the plot. It seemed to ramble on, and I lost my interest at times. The end was very melodramatic, and I didn't even get that holiday spirit that I was so looking forward to.
While the story was pleasant, I need to keep searching for my 2018 historical Christmas nirvana story.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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December 27, 2022
⭐⭐⭐
3 stars.
An OK Christmas read with rather intriguing characters.
Good chemistry and romantic build up.
A slightly older heroine (29.)
A little too much drama and it was kind of nonsensical.
3 stars.
An OK Christmas read with rather intriguing characters.
Good chemistry and romantic build up.
A slightly older heroine (29.)
A little too much drama and it was kind of nonsensical.
November 27, 2018
I typically think 10+ books is too many for a series, but I have been entertained by each and every one of the Playful Brides. This one was probably one of my favorites of them. I liked both Daffin and Regina. Daffin had a difficult childhood; but in spite of those challenges, became a man of character. Regina is strong, honest, and unafraid to go after what she wants. I also appreciated that it didn't have to work out in the end so that both would become part of the aristocracy.
December 15, 2018
For more quotes and comments - Buddy Read
The past twenty-four hours with him had been unbelievable. Not only had he nearly been killed, but when she’d treated the man for a pistol wound, of all things, she’d been lusting after him like a common street doxy.
The leads, Daffin and Regina started off cute and sweet. I really liked Regina as she was a wonderful combination of vulnerable and courageous. When she is talking with Daffin you could feel how much she liked him and how nervous that would make her but then she would charge on bravely, such a great character. Daffin was interesting as a Bow Street Runner but towards the end he started to get a bit redundant with the "I'm not good enough for her" old stand-by.
The first half was a really good beginning but the second half didn't expand on it enough for me with growing depth in their relationship, the murder mystery had a villain seemingly out of nowhere and a very rushed ending, past and future hero/heroines clogged up the ending, and I was wanting a little bit more of a holiday feel.
Overall though, I liked it as it had some cute moments, humor popping in, and a heartfelt heroine.
The past twenty-four hours with him had been unbelievable. Not only had he nearly been killed, but when she’d treated the man for a pistol wound, of all things, she’d been lusting after him like a common street doxy.
The leads, Daffin and Regina started off cute and sweet. I really liked Regina as she was a wonderful combination of vulnerable and courageous. When she is talking with Daffin you could feel how much she liked him and how nervous that would make her but then she would charge on bravely, such a great character. Daffin was interesting as a Bow Street Runner but towards the end he started to get a bit redundant with the "I'm not good enough for her" old stand-by.
The first half was a really good beginning but the second half didn't expand on it enough for me with growing depth in their relationship, the murder mystery had a villain seemingly out of nowhere and a very rushed ending, past and future hero/heroines clogged up the ending, and I was wanting a little bit more of a holiday feel.
Overall though, I liked it as it had some cute moments, humor popping in, and a heartfelt heroine.
December 7, 2022
Gag me with a cactus at Christmas. How in the world did they think it was okay for the person responsible for nearly getting her killed and absolutely getting her traumatized to not face any punishment??
I don’t care what the fuck is “logical” or “historically accurate” this is a work of fiction and I’m sorry but my definition of an HEA doesn’t include the villains going about their merry day. Make the villain someone who can go to jail then! That bitch will stop looking over their shoulder (the only punishment that could happen??) after about two days, why wouldn’t they??? What a pathetic excuse at justice lmao.
I don’t even think anyone actually told Regina who was responsible?? I searched the ebook and literally no one mentioned the name to her after they worked out the mystery (not hard to do).
Regina was a bad bitch though I loved her. Yes queen get that dick. Also thank god it wasn’t Chekhovs handcuffs.
This could have been a novella.
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️.75/5
*Bowman writes a damn good sex scene. I think there was like 1.5 scenes! Lots of begging, edging, and of course the handcuffs.
I don’t care what the fuck is “logical” or “historically accurate” this is a work of fiction and I’m sorry but my definition of an HEA doesn’t include the villains going about their merry day. Make the villain someone who can go to jail then! That bitch will stop looking over their shoulder (the only punishment that could happen??) after about two days, why wouldn’t they??? What a pathetic excuse at justice lmao.
I don’t even think anyone actually told Regina who was responsible?? I searched the ebook and literally no one mentioned the name to her after they worked out the mystery (not hard to do).
Regina was a bad bitch though I loved her. Yes queen get that dick. Also thank god it wasn’t Chekhovs handcuffs.
This could have been a novella.
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️.75/5
*Bowman writes a damn good sex scene. I think there was like 1.5 scenes! Lots of begging, edging, and of course the handcuffs.
October 17, 2018
4/5 stars.
I received this book from Netgalley and St.Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review and opinion. It does not affect my view in any way.
To start with, I really dig that cover okay.
I've read a few books from Valeria Bowman before, and while in general I have liked her writing and enjoyed several of the stories - nothing has stuck me as awesome! This books comes close to that feeling.
This book revolves around secondary and primary characters from the lask book in the series - A duke like no other. Regina and Daffin (our MC's for this book) are introduced to us in the previous book - and we're treated to some grade A flirting. In Kiss me at Christmas however, we're told about their flirting and attraction to each other in the events of the last book. In short we begin almost with an assumed knowledge of the previous book, which makes it a little difficult for readers who wish to read this as a stand alone. However, it's not so grave that you can't tell head or tail of the plot - but a little background work would be suitable.
We begin the book with Regina making the drive to see Daffin Oakleaf (renowned Bow Street Runner and legendary handsome man - color me shocked ) to make him an indecenet proposal. She's set to be engaged to a man in a few weeks against her wish, and has no choice in the matter. But she wants to keep one choice to herself, of whom she gives herself to for the first time. And she chooses Daffin. Hence the indecent proposal - one which is equal parts entertaining and awkward to read. But it sets the tone for the book well; you instantly fall for Daffin and Regina. In terms of sucking you into the MC's Miss Bowman does a good job here.
The question now is - what does Daffin say? Does he accept her offer? Does he feel the same way or has no interest in her? Well that's what we find out.
To add to this wonderful budding couple, we have a plot line of someone trying to kill Regina - and it's interesting enough to make me actually want to guess. Quite rare in a romance book for me to be interested in the murder plot.
Overall I enjoyed this book thoroughly. The author dables in a little bit of risque themes in the bedroom, reminds me a bit of Elizabeth Hoyt - however it doesn't have the same effect. But if this is indication of things to come then I'm definitely interested!
Go check out this book, you won't be dissapointed!
I received this book from Netgalley and St.Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review and opinion. It does not affect my view in any way.
To start with, I really dig that cover okay.
I've read a few books from Valeria Bowman before, and while in general I have liked her writing and enjoyed several of the stories - nothing has stuck me as awesome! This books comes close to that feeling.
This book revolves around secondary and primary characters from the lask book in the series - A duke like no other. Regina and Daffin (our MC's for this book) are introduced to us in the previous book - and we're treated to some grade A flirting. In Kiss me at Christmas however, we're told about their flirting and attraction to each other in the events of the last book. In short we begin almost with an assumed knowledge of the previous book, which makes it a little difficult for readers who wish to read this as a stand alone. However, it's not so grave that you can't tell head or tail of the plot - but a little background work would be suitable.
We begin the book with Regina making the drive to see Daffin Oakleaf (renowned Bow Street Runner and legendary handsome man - color me shocked ) to make him an indecenet proposal. She's set to be engaged to a man in a few weeks against her wish, and has no choice in the matter. But she wants to keep one choice to herself, of whom she gives herself to for the first time. And she chooses Daffin. Hence the indecent proposal - one which is equal parts entertaining and awkward to read. But it sets the tone for the book well; you instantly fall for Daffin and Regina. In terms of sucking you into the MC's Miss Bowman does a good job here.
The question now is - what does Daffin say? Does he accept her offer? Does he feel the same way or has no interest in her? Well that's what we find out.
To add to this wonderful budding couple, we have a plot line of someone trying to kill Regina - and it's interesting enough to make me actually want to guess. Quite rare in a romance book for me to be interested in the murder plot.
Overall I enjoyed this book thoroughly. The author dables in a little bit of risque themes in the bedroom, reminds me a bit of Elizabeth Hoyt - however it doesn't have the same effect. But if this is indication of things to come then I'm definitely interested!
Go check out this book, you won't be dissapointed!
October 25, 2018
Kiss Me At Christmas was an amazing read featuring a woman determined to make decisions for herself for once and the man who tempts her as no other has.
Lady Regina is a month away from her thirtieth birthday and is considered firmly on the shelf. While Regina has given up on finding a love match, she does want to experience pleasure at the hands of a man of her choosing and she knows just the man for the job. Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf has been captivated by Regina since the moment he met her, but he knows she’s out of his reach in spite of the tempting offer she makes him. When a threat against Regina places Daffin in the role of bodyguard, sparks instantly fly enticing them to throw caution to the wind and give in to the passion between them.
Regina lost her parents in a carriage accident when she was twelve and was cared for by her uncle and grandmother from then on. Now that her uncle is reaching the end of his life, he’s insistent that Regina finally wed and he’s picked out a man Regina knows only wants the land and money that comes with her dowry. I admired how Regina was determined to experience some joy for herself before being forced to marry a man she didn’t like let alone love.
Daffin has become one of the most well known Bow Street Runners due his dedication to his work and some high profile cases he’s solved landing him in the papers. Daffin however never wanted to be well known, he simply wants to do his job and help those who cannot help themselves. I loved Daffin’s devotion to his work even if at times he was willing to risk everything, including his life, to get his man. It was nice to see he had morals when it came to his work and that he stuck to them.
Regina and Daffin’s relationship builds very slowly due to her almost engagement to another man and his hesitation due to his friendship with Regina’s cousin. I enjoyed watching their relationship progress from an easy flirtation into something more. It’s clear both of them admire and respect each other which I was happy to see as that’s not always the case. The chemistry between them is fantastic and I found myself really enjoying the buildup to their physical relationship when normally I like it to start sooner in the book.
In this book Mark and Nicole, the couple from A Duke Like No Other, feature heavily as Regina is staying with them and Mark is one of Daffin’s best friends. I loved getting to see the couple again as I adored their romance and I was happy to get more scenes of them. A few couples from other books also make appearances and we get to see the setup for the next couple in the eleventh book in the series, No Other Duke But You. I love how interconnected these books are and how we get little glimpses of past couples.
Kiss Me At Christmas is my favorite of the Playful Brides books I’ve read thus far and I can’t wait to read more books in this series in the future. I highly recommend this book and the series if you’re looking for some great historical romance.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Lady Regina is a month away from her thirtieth birthday and is considered firmly on the shelf. While Regina has given up on finding a love match, she does want to experience pleasure at the hands of a man of her choosing and she knows just the man for the job. Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf has been captivated by Regina since the moment he met her, but he knows she’s out of his reach in spite of the tempting offer she makes him. When a threat against Regina places Daffin in the role of bodyguard, sparks instantly fly enticing them to throw caution to the wind and give in to the passion between them.
Regina lost her parents in a carriage accident when she was twelve and was cared for by her uncle and grandmother from then on. Now that her uncle is reaching the end of his life, he’s insistent that Regina finally wed and he’s picked out a man Regina knows only wants the land and money that comes with her dowry. I admired how Regina was determined to experience some joy for herself before being forced to marry a man she didn’t like let alone love.
Daffin has become one of the most well known Bow Street Runners due his dedication to his work and some high profile cases he’s solved landing him in the papers. Daffin however never wanted to be well known, he simply wants to do his job and help those who cannot help themselves. I loved Daffin’s devotion to his work even if at times he was willing to risk everything, including his life, to get his man. It was nice to see he had morals when it came to his work and that he stuck to them.
Regina and Daffin’s relationship builds very slowly due to her almost engagement to another man and his hesitation due to his friendship with Regina’s cousin. I enjoyed watching their relationship progress from an easy flirtation into something more. It’s clear both of them admire and respect each other which I was happy to see as that’s not always the case. The chemistry between them is fantastic and I found myself really enjoying the buildup to their physical relationship when normally I like it to start sooner in the book.
In this book Mark and Nicole, the couple from A Duke Like No Other, feature heavily as Regina is staying with them and Mark is one of Daffin’s best friends. I loved getting to see the couple again as I adored their romance and I was happy to get more scenes of them. A few couples from other books also make appearances and we get to see the setup for the next couple in the eleventh book in the series, No Other Duke But You. I love how interconnected these books are and how we get little glimpses of past couples.
Kiss Me At Christmas is my favorite of the Playful Brides books I’ve read thus far and I can’t wait to read more books in this series in the future. I highly recommend this book and the series if you’re looking for some great historical romance.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
November 10, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This is the first book I pick up in the series but I couldn't pass up a historical romance holiday read! I think it may have been interesting to have seen this couple interact in a previous book as this book opens up with the heroine wanting one thing for her 30th birthday. To lose her virginity to the sexy Bow Street Runner she met previously. She's been comfortably a spinster for many years and didn't want to take a husband until she found love, but she's now being strongly encouraged to take one of her suitors and she wants at least control on who she gives her body to for the first time.
I really enjoyed Regina's character. She's innocent in many ways but also curious and yes, I daresay playful as the name of the series suggests. I think that brought a cuteness to the story because you can't help but like her. And Daffin is certainly sexy and has to fight his attraction to her because he wouldn't be right for her in any way.
But while this was a fun story to read, I think it lacked a lot of the holiday charm I was looking for. There's a bit more mystery going on as there is someone that wants to hurt Regina, and maybe that overpowered the cute feeling of the holidays.
While my expectations were not quite met, I still enjoyed reading about these characters and it was a sweet story even if it wasn't be a favorite of mine.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
October 27, 2018
KISS ME AT CHRISTMAS by Valerie Bowman is book 10 in the Playful Brides series. This is the story of Regina and Daffin. I feel this can be a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Regina is nearing 30 years old and headed to the 'shelf' although her Uncle wishes her to marry a neighbor to benefit him. Daffin has been attracted to Regina from first site but knows that him being a Bow Street Runner puts him out of her class. But Regina finds him attractive too and wishes to know what passion is before its to late for her. So when her life becomes in danger and Daffin is the man to help save her...their feelings start to take off.
I am such a fan of Ms. Bowman's so I know I am getting a great story when I see her name on a book. Just loved this one!
Regina is nearing 30 years old and headed to the 'shelf' although her Uncle wishes her to marry a neighbor to benefit him. Daffin has been attracted to Regina from first site but knows that him being a Bow Street Runner puts him out of her class. But Regina finds him attractive too and wishes to know what passion is before its to late for her. So when her life becomes in danger and Daffin is the man to help save her...their feelings start to take off.
I am such a fan of Ms. Bowman's so I know I am getting a great story when I see her name on a book. Just loved this one!
September 26, 2018
This story has everything I want in a Historical Romance. Regina and Daffin being the main characters. Regina is a rich socialite , and the niece of a Duke. Nicole her cousin is married to Gram, a dear friend of Daffin. Two times Grams carriage has been almost ran off the road, he fears someone in his family is in danger, so he asks Daffin to watch after their safety while he has to be away on business.
Regina is about to be forced to marry a man she doesn't even like, let alone think she could ever love. Sparks fly between Daffin the Bow Street Runner ( An investigator , sort of a policeman of the era, and Lady Regina. They are in a different social class so a union is out of the question, but it doesn't stop the longing they share for one another.
Under a different title this could have been presented as a Suspense Thriller. It has a much better storyline than a few I have read lately. Sometimes during this tale I was on the edge of my seat in anticipation. So I was pleased to see this wasn't just a sweet romance but a full fledged Novel. I was amazed at the depth and richness. The main characters were loveable, and the villains believable.
I recommend this book because it was such an entertaining time, and a joy to read, I felt like I could just step into the page an be a part of it all.
Thank you to Viking Press and author Valerie Bowman for the opportunity to read and review this book but as always my opinions are solely my own. I was given this book and asked for a fair honest review, which is always given. This one was a pleasure to read.
Regina is about to be forced to marry a man she doesn't even like, let alone think she could ever love. Sparks fly between Daffin the Bow Street Runner ( An investigator , sort of a policeman of the era, and Lady Regina. They are in a different social class so a union is out of the question, but it doesn't stop the longing they share for one another.
Under a different title this could have been presented as a Suspense Thriller. It has a much better storyline than a few I have read lately. Sometimes during this tale I was on the edge of my seat in anticipation. So I was pleased to see this wasn't just a sweet romance but a full fledged Novel. I was amazed at the depth and richness. The main characters were loveable, and the villains believable.
I recommend this book because it was such an entertaining time, and a joy to read, I felt like I could just step into the page an be a part of it all.
Thank you to Viking Press and author Valerie Bowman for the opportunity to read and review this book but as always my opinions are solely my own. I was given this book and asked for a fair honest review, which is always given. This one was a pleasure to read.
October 19, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Beautiful love story , set during the Christmas period.
Lady Regina offers Daffin a bow street runner , and a man not of her station b , the ultimate gift , but he can accept, the two of them have been flirting for months and now she’s destined to be married to a man she doesn’t love , however in Daffin she sees a lot to love .
This is their story , it a great seasonal tale that will have you on the edge of your seat and your brain all over the place trying to figure out the plot .
Really enjoyable read.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Beautiful love story , set during the Christmas period.
Lady Regina offers Daffin a bow street runner , and a man not of her station b , the ultimate gift , but he can accept, the two of them have been flirting for months and now she’s destined to be married to a man she doesn’t love , however in Daffin she sees a lot to love .
This is their story , it a great seasonal tale that will have you on the edge of your seat and your brain all over the place trying to figure out the plot .
Really enjoyable read.
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
November 6, 2018
Lady Regina Haversham is turning 30 and with the prospect of an unwanted marriage looming, she decides that she wants to make her own choice of who she gives her virginity to and she has selected the perfect man for the job, Bow Street Runner, Daffin Oakleaf. She met him over the summer when he helped her cousin Mark investigate the murder of their cousin John. They flirted and she has not been able to forget him and has been following his exploits in the Times. Her mind made up, she goes to see him at Bow Street.
Daffin Oakleaf hates Christmas, he keeps busy during the season to ward off the bad memories Christmas brings. He is shocked to learn that Lady Regina is calling on him and agrees to see her. He is floored by her bumbling proposal and refuses. She is horrified, she not only did she embarrass herself, she inadvertently insulted him. Humiliated, she returns home, grateful that their paths will not cross again. But as she leaves her carriage is almost run off the road - this is the second incident and she knows she has to tell Mark and Nicole.
She tells Nicole about her meeting and the incident with the carriage - Nicole hatches a plan. When Mark learns of the threats, he says he will cancel his trip, but Nicole suggests that he hire Daffin to protect them. Mark thinks this is a wonderful idea and rushes out to hire him.
After a briefly awkward reunion, Regina apologizes and Daffin is gracious and perhaps a bit flirty. They talk and start to get to know each other better, some kisses ensue and they grow closer, even while trying to uncover the threat that is clearly against Regina. When Daffin is shot while with Regina, they decide they will return to the country estate with her uncle to wait for Mark's return,
The more time they spend together, the more they share and the more they realize all they have in common and all that stands between them. Daffin doesn't tell Regina everything about his past and that past comes back to torment them.
This was a nice story with likable leads, characters from the previous books, secrets, relatives with good intentions, unwanted suitors, kidnapping, steamy love scenes, a baffling mystery and finally a hard won HEA. So why not 5 stars? Well, the threat against Regina was a bit far fetched and ultimately the person responsible gets away with no punishment at all, there were also some title errors and way too many "Merry Christmases" for a book set in England. But this was a really good read and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Daffin Oakleaf hates Christmas, he keeps busy during the season to ward off the bad memories Christmas brings. He is shocked to learn that Lady Regina is calling on him and agrees to see her. He is floored by her bumbling proposal and refuses. She is horrified, she not only did she embarrass herself, she inadvertently insulted him. Humiliated, she returns home, grateful that their paths will not cross again. But as she leaves her carriage is almost run off the road - this is the second incident and she knows she has to tell Mark and Nicole.
She tells Nicole about her meeting and the incident with the carriage - Nicole hatches a plan. When Mark learns of the threats, he says he will cancel his trip, but Nicole suggests that he hire Daffin to protect them. Mark thinks this is a wonderful idea and rushes out to hire him.
After a briefly awkward reunion, Regina apologizes and Daffin is gracious and perhaps a bit flirty. They talk and start to get to know each other better, some kisses ensue and they grow closer, even while trying to uncover the threat that is clearly against Regina. When Daffin is shot while with Regina, they decide they will return to the country estate with her uncle to wait for Mark's return,
The more time they spend together, the more they share and the more they realize all they have in common and all that stands between them. Daffin doesn't tell Regina everything about his past and that past comes back to torment them.
This was a nice story with likable leads, characters from the previous books, secrets, relatives with good intentions, unwanted suitors, kidnapping, steamy love scenes, a baffling mystery and finally a hard won HEA. So why not 5 stars? Well, the threat against Regina was a bit far fetched and ultimately the person responsible gets away with no punishment at all, there were also some title errors and way too many "Merry Christmases" for a book set in England. But this was a really good read and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
November 13, 2018
3.5 stars - Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Lady Regina Haversham has long been holding out for a love match. But as she nears thirty, her uncle is determined to see her wed. Regina knows she cannot put off her uncle’s chosen suitor forever, but she’s determined to at least have control over who she loses her virginity to. And there’s only one man she wants: famous Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf. Though he’s tempted, Daffin turns Regina down. That would be the end of it, except it seems that someone is targeting Regina. With her cousin out of town, Daffin is the one tasked with protecting her. Close quarters have a way of bringing down barriers, but given the difference in their stations, Regina and Daffin will need a Christmas miracle to get their happily ever after.
Kiss Me at Christmas is a warmhearted, sparkling holiday romance. Regina and Daffin absolutely charmed me; they’re both incredibly likeable and they have wonderful chemistry. Regina is open, curious, and kind while Daffin is protective and devilishly handsome. Physically, intellectually, and emotionally Regina and Daffin are a match and their romance builds from flirty and sweet to spicy. Yet while it’s clear they’re meant for each other, class differences aren’t always easy to overcome, even if Daffin is close friends with Regina’s cousin.
The romance in Kiss Me at Christmas makes the pages of the story fly by. But the romance is intertwined with the mystery of who is trying to kill Regina. At first, I enjoyed this subplot and had my theories about who was behind everything. Unfortunately, a mystery needs to have a satisfying – or at least logical – conclusion and this one was both unsatisfying and seemed to come out of left field. It felt manufactured for plot reasons, which was a pity because Daffin and Regina are such entertaining characters that you can’t help but feel they deserved better. This isn’t an insignificant quibble, but I still honestly enjoyed this book anyway. There’s a buoyancy to Valerie Bowman’s writing that just lifts me up whenever I read her books and Kiss Me at Christmas is no exception.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lady Regina Haversham has long been holding out for a love match. But as she nears thirty, her uncle is determined to see her wed. Regina knows she cannot put off her uncle’s chosen suitor forever, but she’s determined to at least have control over who she loses her virginity to. And there’s only one man she wants: famous Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf. Though he’s tempted, Daffin turns Regina down. That would be the end of it, except it seems that someone is targeting Regina. With her cousin out of town, Daffin is the one tasked with protecting her. Close quarters have a way of bringing down barriers, but given the difference in their stations, Regina and Daffin will need a Christmas miracle to get their happily ever after.
Kiss Me at Christmas is a warmhearted, sparkling holiday romance. Regina and Daffin absolutely charmed me; they’re both incredibly likeable and they have wonderful chemistry. Regina is open, curious, and kind while Daffin is protective and devilishly handsome. Physically, intellectually, and emotionally Regina and Daffin are a match and their romance builds from flirty and sweet to spicy. Yet while it’s clear they’re meant for each other, class differences aren’t always easy to overcome, even if Daffin is close friends with Regina’s cousin.
The romance in Kiss Me at Christmas makes the pages of the story fly by. But the romance is intertwined with the mystery of who is trying to kill Regina. At first, I enjoyed this subplot and had my theories about who was behind everything. Unfortunately, a mystery needs to have a satisfying – or at least logical – conclusion and this one was both unsatisfying and seemed to come out of left field. It felt manufactured for plot reasons, which was a pity because Daffin and Regina are such entertaining characters that you can’t help but feel they deserved better. This isn’t an insignificant quibble, but I still honestly enjoyed this book anyway. There’s a buoyancy to Valerie Bowman’s writing that just lifts me up whenever I read her books and Kiss Me at Christmas is no exception.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 7, 2019
Lady Regina Haversham's thirtieth birthday was precisely one month away, which didn't leave her much time to lose her virginity. Not that she wanted it lost. She wanted to know where it went and choose to whom she gave the dratted thing.
This novel was such a delight! It starts out with our heroine, Regina, meeting with our hero, Daffin, at his Bow Street office in order to offer him a proposition. As Lady Regina is nearly thirty and is being forced into marriage by her aged Uncle the Duke to a man she does not love or particularly like, she desperately yearns for some sort of freedom and decision-making concerning her own future. So she asks Daffin to take her virginity as she thinks him gorgeous and has admired his bravery since he helped catch her cousin's killer some months before. Unfortunately for Regina (and hilariously for the reader!), she is so flustered by her meeting with Daffin that she ends up botching the proposition and ultimately asks Daffin to exchange sexual favors...for money! The opening scene is so hilariously awkward and filled with such underlining sexual lust that both MCs were struggling to decipher what was and wasn't being said. Both characters leave the meeting disappointed, slightly embarrassed, and ultimately unable to forget the encounter even if Daffin refuses to take advantage of Regina's proposal.
Being a hero wasn't Daffin's purpose. Never had been. He did his work to put the scum of society behind bars. To get evil people off the street. To spare their future victims.
Daffin views himself as unworthy of Regina because of his working-class status and his mysteriously clouded past. Regina however does not see these divisions in social stature; she merely sees Daffin as a hard-working, brave and beautiful man who is willing to risk his life to help others. And soon, Daffin is risking his life and career to keep Regina safe as she faces a dangerous threat from an unknown source. Both Regina and Daffin are thrown together by her meddling, well-meaning friend and various circumstances as they try to find and extinguish the threat against her life and ultimately find happiness together.
Overall, this novel was fantastic!! I am beating myself up for not having read any of Valerie's novels before this point as I adored her writing style. This novel was full of humor, wit, sexual longing and tension, and plenty of angst and romance and twisty turns I didn't see coming. Outstanding HR read that I definitely recommend :D
My Daffin Oakleaf, legendary, charismatic, and gorgeous Bow Street Runner..
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley*
November 4, 2018
Wonderful!
I had a smile on my face all the way through Lady Regina and Daffin Oakleave's story.
A fascinatingly intelligent romance with the added spice of murder and the plight of two seemingly star crossed lovers. Well at least two people mad for each other with one from the wrong side of the tracks and fighting the attraction every inch of the way.
Bow Street Runner Daffin takes his mind off Christmas' a painful time for him, by agreeing to be the bodyguard for Lady Regina. Regina is definitely approaching "on-the-shelf" age and has decided that to go into spinsterhood without the experience of untrammelled passion would be a crime.
Daffin has always interested her ... So what would be the harm? apart from finding someone who engages her just by his very being. Could she just walk away? I mean when your whole body zings when he's around, what's a determined lady to do?
A startlingly different approach to life from Lady Regina that s just so enjoyable. And that Daffin! Sigh!
A NetGalley ARC
I had a smile on my face all the way through Lady Regina and Daffin Oakleave's story.
A fascinatingly intelligent romance with the added spice of murder and the plight of two seemingly star crossed lovers. Well at least two people mad for each other with one from the wrong side of the tracks and fighting the attraction every inch of the way.
Bow Street Runner Daffin takes his mind off Christmas' a painful time for him, by agreeing to be the bodyguard for Lady Regina. Regina is definitely approaching "on-the-shelf" age and has decided that to go into spinsterhood without the experience of untrammelled passion would be a crime.
Daffin has always interested her ... So what would be the harm? apart from finding someone who engages her just by his very being. Could she just walk away? I mean when your whole body zings when he's around, what's a determined lady to do?
A startlingly different approach to life from Lady Regina that s just so enjoyable. And that Daffin! Sigh!
A NetGalley ARC
December 24, 2018
3.5 stars
Setting. London and the countryside, England, December 1818-January 1819.
Characters.
Heroine: Lady Regina Haversham (1 month shy of 30th birthday), niece of the Duke of Colchester
Hero: Daffin Oakleaf (30s?), Bow Street Runner
Summary.
Regina is soon going to be 30 years old and she wants to give herself a gift in celebration: one night with a man she desires. She wants to rid herself of her virginity but also give it to a man whom she chooses, because her uncle and grandmother are pushing for her to get married to the dry hum-drum neighbor at home and she's starting to think she needs to give in and finally accept the offer. First though, she wants to take action on the attraction that simmered between her and Daffin Oakleaf when they first met (in Book #9—I haven't read it, but was able to enjoy this one regardless).
Daffin unfortunately does not respond as she hopes (though watching her pitch it to him is hysterical and cute, and you have to admire her bravery and how forthright she is in asking for what she wants). She's embarrassed and hopefully never has to face him again ... yet unfortunately, either she or her cousin may be in danger, and her cousin thinks that Daffin would be the perfect person for them to hire to watch over them (she definitely has matchmaking on the mind). For their parts, Regina and Daffin aren't really sure how to act around each other, given their clear attraction to each other but how things were last left between them.
As whomever is threatening Regina and her family draws closer, Daffin spends more and more time with her and finds himself falling for someone who is so above his station that he can never hope for there to be anything more than friendship between them. Regina is unsure of Daffin's feelings, but unquestioning of her own, and their time spent together only cements what she has suspected—she's fallen for him, and hard.
Review.
So I'm a bit torn here, as my rating clearly indicates. 3.5 stars for me means that I am glad I read it, but it won't be a reread for me. There are so many things about this book that could have made it GREAT, but unfortunately it fell a little flat at times, the pacing wasn't always right, and sometimes it just felt off. It's kind of hard to explain, but ... I don't know—he would grin, when he doesn't seem like the grinning type and the timing isn't really appropriate; or she makes a sexual comment that given where they are at that point in their relationship and their avoidance, isn't the right timing.
Also, Daffin has completely legit reasons for turning Regina down when she approaches him with her offer, yet somehow those reasons seem to disappear and other ones take their place (which are also legitimate, but ... what happened to the first ones??). There were also pieces of the mystery subplot that could have used some work.
It could have been great—I loved the premise, I loved the older-than-normal heroine, I loved how she was brave and confident enough to approach a man and ask for what she wants sexually, I loved the class difference between them, and Daffin could have been a really great stern-upstanding hero-type ... but it just wasn't as tight as it should have been and things felt ... off, sometimes.
Finally, the class difference trope, when done correctly, shouldn't be cavalierly dealt with, because that shit was REAL. One of the best books I've read that deals with this is Lily Maxton's The Improper Bride (my review); there, it's a housekeeper and a lord, and there is always the awareness that a real relationship between them is beyond the pale and what on earth are they thinking. Now, of course, things work out and they deal, but at least leading up to them resolving the issue, they're taking it seriously and are not acting like the real world and society don't exist.
Recommendations.
Other Bow Street Runner or private investigator books:
— Lisa Kleypas's Bow Street Runners series
— Lorraine Heath's Midnight Pleasures with a Scoundrel (my review)
— Grace Callaway's Her Protector's Pleasure
A book that came to mind right away in comparison is another one where the heroine decides to gift herself sexual experience for her 30th birthday:
— Lisa Kleypas's Suddenly You
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
Setting. London and the countryside, England, December 1818-January 1819.
Characters.
Heroine: Lady Regina Haversham (1 month shy of 30th birthday), niece of the Duke of Colchester
Hero: Daffin Oakleaf (30s?), Bow Street Runner
Summary.
Regina is soon going to be 30 years old and she wants to give herself a gift in celebration: one night with a man she desires. She wants to rid herself of her virginity but also give it to a man whom she chooses, because her uncle and grandmother are pushing for her to get married to the dry hum-drum neighbor at home and she's starting to think she needs to give in and finally accept the offer. First though, she wants to take action on the attraction that simmered between her and Daffin Oakleaf when they first met (in Book #9—I haven't read it, but was able to enjoy this one regardless).
Daffin unfortunately does not respond as she hopes (though watching her pitch it to him is hysterical and cute, and you have to admire her bravery and how forthright she is in asking for what she wants). She's embarrassed and hopefully never has to face him again ... yet unfortunately, either she or her cousin may be in danger, and her cousin thinks that Daffin would be the perfect person for them to hire to watch over them (she definitely has matchmaking on the mind). For their parts, Regina and Daffin aren't really sure how to act around each other, given their clear attraction to each other but how things were last left between them.
As whomever is threatening Regina and her family draws closer, Daffin spends more and more time with her and finds himself falling for someone who is so above his station that he can never hope for there to be anything more than friendship between them. Regina is unsure of Daffin's feelings, but unquestioning of her own, and their time spent together only cements what she has suspected—she's fallen for him, and hard.
Review.
So I'm a bit torn here, as my rating clearly indicates. 3.5 stars for me means that I am glad I read it, but it won't be a reread for me. There are so many things about this book that could have made it GREAT, but unfortunately it fell a little flat at times, the pacing wasn't always right, and sometimes it just felt off. It's kind of hard to explain, but ... I don't know—he would grin, when he doesn't seem like the grinning type and the timing isn't really appropriate; or she makes a sexual comment that given where they are at that point in their relationship and their avoidance, isn't the right timing.
Also, Daffin has completely legit reasons for turning Regina down when she approaches him with her offer, yet somehow those reasons seem to disappear and other ones take their place (which are also legitimate, but ... what happened to the first ones??). There were also pieces of the mystery subplot that could have used some work.
It could have been great—I loved the premise, I loved the older-than-normal heroine, I loved how she was brave and confident enough to approach a man and ask for what she wants sexually, I loved the class difference between them, and Daffin could have been a really great stern-upstanding hero-type ... but it just wasn't as tight as it should have been and things felt ... off, sometimes.
Finally, the class difference trope, when done correctly, shouldn't be cavalierly dealt with, because that shit was REAL. One of the best books I've read that deals with this is Lily Maxton's The Improper Bride (my review); there, it's a housekeeper and a lord, and there is always the awareness that a real relationship between them is beyond the pale and what on earth are they thinking. Now, of course, things work out and they deal, but at least leading up to them resolving the issue, they're taking it seriously and are not acting like the real world and society don't exist.
Recommendations.
Other Bow Street Runner or private investigator books:
— Lisa Kleypas's Bow Street Runners series
— Lorraine Heath's Midnight Pleasures with a Scoundrel (my review)
— Grace Callaway's Her Protector's Pleasure
A book that came to mind right away in comparison is another one where the heroine decides to gift herself sexual experience for her 30th birthday:
— Lisa Kleypas's Suddenly You
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
October 27, 2018
I’ve received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5*
I have to admit first and foremost, I love Christmas stories. So, just for that it gains a few points. Not that it needed the extra points – it’s a great story on its own.
Daffin Oakleaf is a Bow Street Runner, which makes him a bit of an unconventional hero. I loved learning about his past, who he really is, and why he abhorred Christmas. He’s a good man, with a troubled past, which does not stop him from helping others – on the contrary. That’s how he met Regina, in a previous book (which I have not yet read).
Regina wants to do something for herself, and since she liked Daffin, she decides he is the one to whom she will lose her virginity – if he’ll take her. Regina is strong willed, amazing woman who respects herself. And her uncle has chosen a man whom she is to marry (a bad choice, of course), so decides she deserves at least a little adventure – and to be cherished before that happens. And since sparks had flown with Daffin in a previous book, he was the one.
And even when her proposal doesn’t really work, it’s okay. Because it allows us to see their romance build up, becoming more than just a fling. All in a Christmas ambience.
It does have some mystery and an action-driven plot, so it’s a book that will make you want to discover what is happening as soon as possible, so it will be hard to put it down.
I really enjoyed this book full of romance and action. Definitely a recommendation for all lovers of romances.
4.5*
I have to admit first and foremost, I love Christmas stories. So, just for that it gains a few points. Not that it needed the extra points – it’s a great story on its own.
Daffin Oakleaf is a Bow Street Runner, which makes him a bit of an unconventional hero. I loved learning about his past, who he really is, and why he abhorred Christmas. He’s a good man, with a troubled past, which does not stop him from helping others – on the contrary. That’s how he met Regina, in a previous book (which I have not yet read).
Regina wants to do something for herself, and since she liked Daffin, she decides he is the one to whom she will lose her virginity – if he’ll take her. Regina is strong willed, amazing woman who respects herself. And her uncle has chosen a man whom she is to marry (a bad choice, of course), so decides she deserves at least a little adventure – and to be cherished before that happens. And since sparks had flown with Daffin in a previous book, he was the one.
And even when her proposal doesn’t really work, it’s okay. Because it allows us to see their romance build up, becoming more than just a fling. All in a Christmas ambience.
It does have some mystery and an action-driven plot, so it’s a book that will make you want to discover what is happening as soon as possible, so it will be hard to put it down.
I really enjoyed this book full of romance and action. Definitely a recommendation for all lovers of romances.
December 19, 2018
“A man’s kiss is his signature.” –Mae West
Book 10 of 11 in the Playful Brides series. Rating: MA: mature audience, adult themes, mild language, graphic descriptions of sexual encounters.
Maybe I just wasn’t in the right spirit. I started this story and was ticked-off within the first paragraph. So, I put it down and didn’t pick it up until closer to Christmas. That didn’t help one bit. I found myself ticked-off all over again. Here we have a spoiled ‘Lady’ of the ton approaching her thirtieth birthday and lamenting her virginity. I mean seriously? She wanted to get rid of the ‘dratted thing’ and have a night of passion before she was forced to settle. We then had to endure paragraphs and pages while she racked her brain as to whom she could relinquish it. We listened as she constantly complained about her uncle the Duke threatening to betroth her to the handsome Earl that lived next door. We, of course, knew that he not only wanted her dowry but also lusted after the land that would come with her when she married. The fact he was a complete bore was beside the point.
This was like a bad stage performance with actors overacting and quoting dialogue that sounded hollow, and fake. If I had been at a real theater, I would have left at intermission. Actions were unrealistic, strained and stilted and the dialogue kept me asking… REALLY??? The hero was given way too many HERO moments that simply were not realistic. The villain was better portrayed than the hero. I was really looking forward to the final confrontation and was so disappointed with the way things happened. WTC [what-the-crap]?
There were characters visiting from the previous book and we were given a hint as to a possible next book. Well, I suppose there is another. When one of the characters asks the others to help him next… it can only mean in the next book.
“One day you will kiss a man you can’t breathe without, and find that breath is of little consequence.” –Karen Marie Moning, Bloodfever
The sex was unnecessary and, in a house full of people and servants. It amazed me how in one scene the Lady approached a door preparing to knock and someone called out for her to come in. When she asked how did they know she was there. They responded, you are in a house full of spies, how could we not know. So, did they know ‘she and he’ were in a room together, alone, and unchaperoned? So many things simply didn’t make sense. Part of the time the text flowed smoothly and was really interesting. Then I’d turn the page and behavior and dialogue would turn juvenile and not plausible. Everything was solved in just a few pages. No epilogue, no resolution to the main problems. Regency etiquette would not have allowed much of this behavior. Comportment was thrown out the window while a serious crime was completely ignored. The reader is left wondering what happened to certain people. While I’m wondering if problems, that I cannot mention, will be solved in the next book?
“A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous.” –Ingrid Bergman
I volunteered to read an uncorrected digital galley from the publisher [St. Martin’s Paperbacks] via NetGalley. The views expressed are my own.
Book 10 of 11 in the Playful Brides series. Rating: MA: mature audience, adult themes, mild language, graphic descriptions of sexual encounters.
Maybe I just wasn’t in the right spirit. I started this story and was ticked-off within the first paragraph. So, I put it down and didn’t pick it up until closer to Christmas. That didn’t help one bit. I found myself ticked-off all over again. Here we have a spoiled ‘Lady’ of the ton approaching her thirtieth birthday and lamenting her virginity. I mean seriously? She wanted to get rid of the ‘dratted thing’ and have a night of passion before she was forced to settle. We then had to endure paragraphs and pages while she racked her brain as to whom she could relinquish it. We listened as she constantly complained about her uncle the Duke threatening to betroth her to the handsome Earl that lived next door. We, of course, knew that he not only wanted her dowry but also lusted after the land that would come with her when she married. The fact he was a complete bore was beside the point.
This was like a bad stage performance with actors overacting and quoting dialogue that sounded hollow, and fake. If I had been at a real theater, I would have left at intermission. Actions were unrealistic, strained and stilted and the dialogue kept me asking… REALLY??? The hero was given way too many HERO moments that simply were not realistic. The villain was better portrayed than the hero. I was really looking forward to the final confrontation and was so disappointed with the way things happened. WTC [what-the-crap]?
There were characters visiting from the previous book and we were given a hint as to a possible next book. Well, I suppose there is another. When one of the characters asks the others to help him next… it can only mean in the next book.
“One day you will kiss a man you can’t breathe without, and find that breath is of little consequence.” –Karen Marie Moning, Bloodfever
The sex was unnecessary and, in a house full of people and servants. It amazed me how in one scene the Lady approached a door preparing to knock and someone called out for her to come in. When she asked how did they know she was there. They responded, you are in a house full of spies, how could we not know. So, did they know ‘she and he’ were in a room together, alone, and unchaperoned? So many things simply didn’t make sense. Part of the time the text flowed smoothly and was really interesting. Then I’d turn the page and behavior and dialogue would turn juvenile and not plausible. Everything was solved in just a few pages. No epilogue, no resolution to the main problems. Regency etiquette would not have allowed much of this behavior. Comportment was thrown out the window while a serious crime was completely ignored. The reader is left wondering what happened to certain people. While I’m wondering if problems, that I cannot mention, will be solved in the next book?
“A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous.” –Ingrid Bergman
I volunteered to read an uncorrected digital galley from the publisher [St. Martin’s Paperbacks] via NetGalley. The views expressed are my own.
January 2, 2022
Engaging and enjoyable Christmas themed romance, with a mystery to solve. I'm a sucker for historical romances that have spies or bow street runners so yay, that's what I got here with Daffin being hired to protect Lady Regina as someone seems to be out to harm her. Figuring out who and why takes most of the story and involves some interesting twists and turns. Daffin and Regina share a mutual attraction and even though Daffin doesn't think he's of a high enough station to be with Regina for the long term, she has other ideas. Warm characters, a little action and adventure and enjoyable romances make this series worth the read.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
October 5, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up. Review to come.
November 6, 2018
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-P5
In thirty days, Lady Regina Haversham will turn thirty years old. She’s never married, never been in love, and now her guardian uncle insists that she marry the Earl of Dryden. Dryden has long sought her for his wife, lusting not so much for her, but the property she would bring to their marriage. Resenting her lack of control over her own life, Regina decides to take a lover before she is forced to marry, and it will be a man of her own choosing. The ideal candidate is the handsome Bow Street Runner she met last year, as he investigated the unfortunate murder of her cousin.
Daffin Oakleaf is surprised when Regina shows up at his office – and he’s shocked when she nervously makes her proposition. When they met last year, they had a friendly and flirtatious relationship, but nothing beyond that. Daffin firmly refuses Regina, telling her that he’s not for sale, and she is mortified at her clumsy request. She hurries home, hoping to never run into Daffin again.
On the way home, Regina’s carriage has a near miss with another carriage, the second such incident that has happened recently. Coincidence? Regina’s cousin, Mark, doesn’t think so, and calls on his friend, Daffin, to protect Regina while he has to be out of town. With Daffin living in the same house, Regina knows she has to apologize and clear the air, or life will be unbearable. Daffin accepts her heartfelt apology, and they easily slip back into their friendly relationship.
I love the connection between Daffin and Regina. He is working class, and she is an aristocrat, yet they treat each other as equals. Their interactions are fun, honest, flirty, and they genuinely talk to one another, even able to now joke about her proposition. When Regina honestly explains how trapped a woman is, Daffin understands how she would have longed to break free and make her own choice. It’s not long before some lovely kisses are exchanged, and they begin to have strong feelings for one another. When the would-be murderer shows up and makes another attempt, Daffin realizes just how deep his feelings run. He’s not of her class, but he has an even deeper secret, one that surely makes any future together impossible.
I adore both Daffin and Regina. She is strong and smart and doesn’t believe she’s superior just because of the circumstances of her birth. Daffin is confident of his abilities, and is determined to be honorable and not ruin Regina. I love how compliments from Regina truly warmed his whole world. He had a sad childhood, and despite his fame and notoriety as a successful runner, he lives a very lonely existence. Can this star-crossed couple find a way to be together? That is, if Regina even survives.
Daffin and Regina have an amazing sexual chemistry, but when they finally give in to their passion, I felt that the handcuff element took away from, rather than added to the intimacy. I believe that this was meant to show trust between them, as well as show their adventurousness, but it didn’t totally work for me. The whole previous story showcased their closeness and intimacy just by their conversations and interactions. Overall, KISS ME AT CHRISTMAS is a fun, romantic, steamy, and entertaining read, with a bit of adventure. I felt the strong connection and love between Daffin and Regina, and I cheered as they found the way to happy ever after.
In thirty days, Lady Regina Haversham will turn thirty years old. She’s never married, never been in love, and now her guardian uncle insists that she marry the Earl of Dryden. Dryden has long sought her for his wife, lusting not so much for her, but the property she would bring to their marriage. Resenting her lack of control over her own life, Regina decides to take a lover before she is forced to marry, and it will be a man of her own choosing. The ideal candidate is the handsome Bow Street Runner she met last year, as he investigated the unfortunate murder of her cousin.
Daffin Oakleaf is surprised when Regina shows up at his office – and he’s shocked when she nervously makes her proposition. When they met last year, they had a friendly and flirtatious relationship, but nothing beyond that. Daffin firmly refuses Regina, telling her that he’s not for sale, and she is mortified at her clumsy request. She hurries home, hoping to never run into Daffin again.
On the way home, Regina’s carriage has a near miss with another carriage, the second such incident that has happened recently. Coincidence? Regina’s cousin, Mark, doesn’t think so, and calls on his friend, Daffin, to protect Regina while he has to be out of town. With Daffin living in the same house, Regina knows she has to apologize and clear the air, or life will be unbearable. Daffin accepts her heartfelt apology, and they easily slip back into their friendly relationship.
I love the connection between Daffin and Regina. He is working class, and she is an aristocrat, yet they treat each other as equals. Their interactions are fun, honest, flirty, and they genuinely talk to one another, even able to now joke about her proposition. When Regina honestly explains how trapped a woman is, Daffin understands how she would have longed to break free and make her own choice. It’s not long before some lovely kisses are exchanged, and they begin to have strong feelings for one another. When the would-be murderer shows up and makes another attempt, Daffin realizes just how deep his feelings run. He’s not of her class, but he has an even deeper secret, one that surely makes any future together impossible.
I adore both Daffin and Regina. She is strong and smart and doesn’t believe she’s superior just because of the circumstances of her birth. Daffin is confident of his abilities, and is determined to be honorable and not ruin Regina. I love how compliments from Regina truly warmed his whole world. He had a sad childhood, and despite his fame and notoriety as a successful runner, he lives a very lonely existence. Can this star-crossed couple find a way to be together? That is, if Regina even survives.
Daffin and Regina have an amazing sexual chemistry, but when they finally give in to their passion, I felt that the handcuff element took away from, rather than added to the intimacy. I believe that this was meant to show trust between them, as well as show their adventurousness, but it didn’t totally work for me. The whole previous story showcased their closeness and intimacy just by their conversations and interactions. Overall, KISS ME AT CHRISTMAS is a fun, romantic, steamy, and entertaining read, with a bit of adventure. I felt the strong connection and love between Daffin and Regina, and I cheered as they found the way to happy ever after.
November 4, 2018
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
I was introduced both to Lady Regina Haversham and Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf in the previous book of this series, so I was curious to read how their romance plays out. Both characters have some baggage to deal with.
In Lady Regina's case, her uncle (who is her guardian) is dying and wants to see her married and settled while he's still alive. She's not fully resigned to the match he's promoting with the Earl of Dryden. He's a nice enough gentleman, but he doesn't set her soul on fire the way Daffin does. If she has to live unhappily wed, she at least wants to experience some passion first. This story begins as she nervously approaches Daffin's office with an indecent proposal. He's just as attracted to Regina as she is to him, but her cousin Mark Grimaldi is his best friend and would kill him if he agreed.
The story moves on to the Grimaldi's town home, where Regina is staying in order to be with Mark's wife Nicole during her confinement--and Regina is also hoping to fall in love and offer her uncle a better alternative than Dryden. With her elevated social position, her uncle would never allow her to marry a Bow Street Runner like Daffin. She doesn't believe he has any interest in her anyway.
Daffin re-enters the story when it appears someone in Mark's household is the target of a killer. Mark engages Daffin's professional services to protect the ladies. It takes a while to narrow down who the target might be and even longer to flush out the killer. During that time, Daffin and Regina are often in company with each other, and the tug of attraction between them continues to grow. Nicole is unreservedly angling to get them together, even though Mark has cautioned Daffin to keep things professional with Regina. Also, Daffin holds a closely-guarded secret and is certain Regina would be disgusted if she knew the truth about him. It's the Christmas season, but he has personal reasons to hate Christmas.
I like the characters, but the execution of the plot doesn't always make sense. Considering that a number of these murder attempts have been when a carriage has tried to force theirs off the road, how would Daffin being inside the carriage with the ladies serve as "protection?" All he does is scan and watch out the carriage window. How would that stop a marauding vehicle from hitting them? Wouldn't it make more sense for him to be riding a horse or driving another vehicle nearby? His protection is pretty wimpy for a supposedly great Bow Street Runner.
Also, the resolution of the romance is very anticlimactic. Very much-ado-about-nuthin'.
Nicely written. Interesting characters and story. A bit loose with plot details.
Received an ARC from netgalley. Opinions are my own.
I was introduced both to Lady Regina Haversham and Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf in the previous book of this series, so I was curious to read how their romance plays out. Both characters have some baggage to deal with.
In Lady Regina's case, her uncle (who is her guardian) is dying and wants to see her married and settled while he's still alive. She's not fully resigned to the match he's promoting with the Earl of Dryden. He's a nice enough gentleman, but he doesn't set her soul on fire the way Daffin does. If she has to live unhappily wed, she at least wants to experience some passion first. This story begins as she nervously approaches Daffin's office with an indecent proposal. He's just as attracted to Regina as she is to him, but her cousin Mark Grimaldi is his best friend and would kill him if he agreed.
The story moves on to the Grimaldi's town home, where Regina is staying in order to be with Mark's wife Nicole during her confinement--and Regina is also hoping to fall in love and offer her uncle a better alternative than Dryden. With her elevated social position, her uncle would never allow her to marry a Bow Street Runner like Daffin. She doesn't believe he has any interest in her anyway.
Daffin re-enters the story when it appears someone in Mark's household is the target of a killer. Mark engages Daffin's professional services to protect the ladies. It takes a while to narrow down who the target might be and even longer to flush out the killer. During that time, Daffin and Regina are often in company with each other, and the tug of attraction between them continues to grow. Nicole is unreservedly angling to get them together, even though Mark has cautioned Daffin to keep things professional with Regina. Also, Daffin holds a closely-guarded secret and is certain Regina would be disgusted if she knew the truth about him. It's the Christmas season, but he has personal reasons to hate Christmas.
I like the characters, but the execution of the plot doesn't always make sense. Considering that a number of these murder attempts have been when a carriage has tried to force theirs off the road, how would Daffin being inside the carriage with the ladies serve as "protection?" All he does is scan and watch out the carriage window. How would that stop a marauding vehicle from hitting them? Wouldn't it make more sense for him to be riding a horse or driving another vehicle nearby? His protection is pretty wimpy for a supposedly great Bow Street Runner.
Also, the resolution of the romance is very anticlimactic. Very much-ado-about-nuthin'.
Nicely written. Interesting characters and story. A bit loose with plot details.
Received an ARC from netgalley. Opinions are my own.
October 31, 2018
Lady Regina is about to turn thirty and about to be engaged to a peer she doesn't care for, but before she resigns herself to a dutiful marriage she wants to make one choice just for herself: take a lover of her own choosing. Unfortunately, Daffin doesn't go along with her request. And immediately after her rather embarrassing proposition, he moves in to serve as her bodyguard following a series of mysterious accidents. Over the weeks they grow closer while trying to figure out who is trying to hurt Regina.
So, right in the first couple of chapters we find out Daffin is kinky, and I have THINGS TO SAY about that. Which is mostly 1) I want more historical kink, please, yay! and 2) oh, uh, that...uh, was an interesting way to do it. It's mentioned early in the book but nothing comes of it until near the end when the couple have sex at last. Which happens right after Regina was kidnapped. As much as I liked aspects of the scene, it felt really self-contained, like it was dropped in from a different draft, and nothing about it connects to the rather traumatic event she just went through (either positively or negatively) and that just...I guess could be considered rather minor, but it really bothered me.
Outside of that one scene, the two are great together and I really loved their flirting and banter. There were a lot of characters to keep up with since it was #10 in a series, but that's mostly only a factor near the end of the book and by that point I was well engaged with the main characters so the new ones didn't throw me out of things. I really liked the way Regina and Daffin had such frank and open discussions about their situation without coming off as either clinical or losing their interpersonal tension.
See more reviews at Sarcasm and Lemons
So, right in the first couple of chapters we find out Daffin is kinky, and I have THINGS TO SAY about that. Which is mostly 1) I want more historical kink, please, yay! and 2) oh, uh, that...uh, was an interesting way to do it. It's mentioned early in the book but nothing comes of it until near the end when the couple have sex at last. Which happens right after Regina was kidnapped. As much as I liked aspects of the scene, it felt really self-contained, like it was dropped in from a different draft, and nothing about it connects to the rather traumatic event she just went through (either positively or negatively) and that just...I guess could be considered rather minor, but it really bothered me.
Outside of that one scene, the two are great together and I really loved their flirting and banter. There were a lot of characters to keep up with since it was #10 in a series, but that's mostly only a factor near the end of the book and by that point I was well engaged with the main characters so the new ones didn't throw me out of things. I really liked the way Regina and Daffin had such frank and open discussions about their situation without coming off as either clinical or losing their interpersonal tension.
See more reviews at Sarcasm and Lemons
October 24, 2018
4.5 Stars
Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf abhors Christmas. Carol singing and holiday cheer only remind him of a dark time. When a close friend calls on him for help, Daffin is happy to capitalize on the distraction. But when he learns the lovely Lady Regina is the one in danger, he’s to become bodyguard to the captivating woman. Regina has one mission: to find a night of passion in the arms of a gentleman. Considered firmly on the shelf, Regina has given up on marriage—but that doesn’t mean she wants to be denied the pleasure married ladies experience. Daffin has long captured her attention and when a threat calls him to her side, the sparks between them ignite.
Another very enjoyable book in the series of which this is the tenth. It could easily be read on its own, the books do feature characters from earlier books & there is always a link. Another well written well paced book that had me hooked from page one. In fact the opening of this book was so entertaining & unusual, a Lady offering herself to the gorgeous Runner & the knots she verbally tied herself in had me chuckling out loud. The characters have plenty of depth, Daffin & Regina are delightful & perfect for each other, their attraction to each other is very apparent but there are obstacles in their way. The road to their HEA wasn’t smooth but it made for a very good read.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Bow Street Runner Daffin Oakleaf abhors Christmas. Carol singing and holiday cheer only remind him of a dark time. When a close friend calls on him for help, Daffin is happy to capitalize on the distraction. But when he learns the lovely Lady Regina is the one in danger, he’s to become bodyguard to the captivating woman. Regina has one mission: to find a night of passion in the arms of a gentleman. Considered firmly on the shelf, Regina has given up on marriage—but that doesn’t mean she wants to be denied the pleasure married ladies experience. Daffin has long captured her attention and when a threat calls him to her side, the sparks between them ignite.
Another very enjoyable book in the series of which this is the tenth. It could easily be read on its own, the books do feature characters from earlier books & there is always a link. Another well written well paced book that had me hooked from page one. In fact the opening of this book was so entertaining & unusual, a Lady offering herself to the gorgeous Runner & the knots she verbally tied herself in had me chuckling out loud. The characters have plenty of depth, Daffin & Regina are delightful & perfect for each other, their attraction to each other is very apparent but there are obstacles in their way. The road to their HEA wasn’t smooth but it made for a very good read.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 25, 2018
I love stories set at Christmas and this one just warmed my heart. Lady Regina is set to become engaged to a man, who she has not choice but to wed. Why is that? Unfortunately it often happened during these times. She decides that even if she has to marry, she will do what she wants before all her decisions are taken away. Her focus turns to Daffin, a renowned bow street runner, who she knows and has flirted with in the previous book in this series. So she goes and offers herself to him because yes, she is a little in love. But what can he say? He is from a totally different class than Regina!
This was a delightful story and I fell in love with these two characters. Truly meant for each other, this was entertaining from beginning to end. The descriptions and detail were inspired and although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. But don't miss out on the other great stories!!
This was a delightful story and I fell in love with these two characters. Truly meant for each other, this was entertaining from beginning to end. The descriptions and detail were inspired and although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. But don't miss out on the other great stories!!
November 8, 2018
It has been a while since it was hard to put down a book, but this book did it! Bowman excellently added another sexy, mysterious romance to her Playful Brides series.
Check out my full review on my blog For the Love of Words.
Check out my full review on my blog For the Love of Words.
December 17, 2018
3'25 estrellas
November 5, 2018
A dashing man with a hidden past, a lady approaching her thirties and spinsterhood looking for one night of passion, lead to this wonderful Christmas romance set during the Regency era in England. Daffin and Regina are engaging characters...courageous, spirited and fighting long odds that they could ever end up together. There is a mystery in this book, as well, that puts the couple and their futures in danger. Steamy and endearing, this book will enthrall readers at Christmas or any time!
November 5, 2018
For the most part, I enjoyed this title. I found Daffin and Regina to be very enjoyable characters. I really enjoyed having a hero that wasn’t a typical member of the aristocracy but actually had an occupation.
Probably my biggest “issues” with the book were the fact I hadn’t really read the previous 9 books in the series. While this book works as a stand-alone, there were several mentions of characters and plot from previous books and it could be distracting at times. Also, I was much more interested in the romance between Daffin and Regina than I was the big mystery plot.
Probably my biggest “issues” with the book were the fact I hadn’t really read the previous 9 books in the series. While this book works as a stand-alone, there were several mentions of characters and plot from previous books and it could be distracting at times. Also, I was much more interested in the romance between Daffin and Regina than I was the big mystery plot.
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