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Secrets of a Perfect Night
Three spectacular stories all set on New Year′s Eve. First, Stephanie Laurens enthralls us with a New Year′s scandal, when a rake awakens in the bed of the temptress who seduced him years before. Then, Victoria Alexander enchants with her tale of a love promised, then foiled and then rekindled on another midnight. And Rachel Gibson delights with the reunion of two estranged friends and the passionate sparks that fly when the clock strikes twelve.
"Scandalous Lord Dere" by Stephanie Laurens
"The Last Love Letter" by Victoria Alexander
"Now and Forever" by Rachel Gibson
"Scandalous Lord Dere" by Stephanie Laurens
"The Last Love Letter" by Victoria Alexander
"Now and Forever" by Rachel Gibson
377 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 5, 2000
96 people are currently reading
1174 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Laurens
206 books5,589 followersStephanie Laurens was born in Sri Lanka, which was at the time the British colony of Ceylon. When she was 5, her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, where she was raised. After continuing through school and earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in Australia, Stephanie and her husband moved to Great Britain, taking one of the last true overland journeys from Katmandu to London.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
Once in London, Stephanie and her husband both began work as research scientists in Kent. They lived in an area surrounded by history. Their own cottage was built in the 16th century, while next door were the protected ruins of an early Roman villa, and nearby was a 14th century castle.
After four years in England, Stephanie and her husband returned to Australia, where she continued to work in cancer research, eventually heading her own research laboratory. One evening Stephanie realized that she did not have any more of her favorite romance novels to read. After years of thinking about writing her own novel, during nights and weekends for the next several months, she began crafting her own story. That manuscript, Tangled Reins, was the first of her books to be published. After achieving a level of success with her novels, Stephanie "retired" from scientific research and became a full-time novelist. Her novels are primarily historical romances set in the Regency time period.
Stephanie and her husband live on peaceful acreage on the outskirts of Melbourne. If she isn't writing, she's reading, and if she's not reading, she's tending her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 29, 2018
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson: 3.5 stars
December 31, 2024
Magic happens in these three second chance romances that are set on New Year's Eve. Two are set in Regency England and the last is a contemporary romance. All are wonderful and I loved this collection.
Scandalous Lord Dere by Stephanie Laurens: 4-Stars
While trying to reach his ancestorial home during a blizzard on New Year's Eve, Adrian, Lord Dere, has a carriage accident and nearly freezes to death. Only by his grit and determination does he reach refuge only to find himself in the arms of the only woman he ever cared about. After only a day in her company he is determined to make her his bride, but the headstrong Abby has her on thoughts on the matter.
The Last Love Letter by Victoria Alexander: 4-Stars
At a New Year's Eve Ball ten years ago, Rachael was in love and planning to elope with her beloved. But that love was doomed by the betrayal of both her father and the man she would marry. From to grave Rachael learns the truth and now must face her new reality. Ten years later at the same ball, Rachael and Jason come face to face and now must deal with the betrayal that tore them apart.
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson: 4-Stars
A New Year's Eve high school reunion is the site for a meeting between childhood friends Thomas and Brinna. Thomas became a successful tech billionaire and Brinna became a P.I. Both were not in the high school popular crowd. Lots can change in ten years.
Scandalous Lord Dere by Stephanie Laurens: 4-Stars
While trying to reach his ancestorial home during a blizzard on New Year's Eve, Adrian, Lord Dere, has a carriage accident and nearly freezes to death. Only by his grit and determination does he reach refuge only to find himself in the arms of the only woman he ever cared about. After only a day in her company he is determined to make her his bride, but the headstrong Abby has her on thoughts on the matter.
The Last Love Letter by Victoria Alexander: 4-Stars
At a New Year's Eve Ball ten years ago, Rachael was in love and planning to elope with her beloved. But that love was doomed by the betrayal of both her father and the man she would marry. From to grave Rachael learns the truth and now must face her new reality. Ten years later at the same ball, Rachael and Jason come face to face and now must deal with the betrayal that tore them apart.
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson: 4-Stars
A New Year's Eve high school reunion is the site for a meeting between childhood friends Thomas and Brinna. Thomas became a successful tech billionaire and Brinna became a P.I. Both were not in the high school popular crowd. Lots can change in ten years.
May 25, 2019
I picked up this book to read "Now and Forever" by Rachel Gibson.
Brina McConnell returns to her hometown to attend her ten-year high school reunion. Most people don't even recognize her since she has changed from the skinny girl who wore clothes that her mother sewed for her. One guy who does recognize her is Thomas Mack. Thomas had been Brina's best friend throughout childhood. He had also been her boyfriend until Brina dumped him their senior year for the school's star quarterback. Now Thomas is rich and handsome. He wants to see if Brina will pick him this time instead of the quarterback.
This was a cute friends to lover story. I liked both Brina and Thomas. The story only lasts two days, but it felt like enough since the couple actually fell in love a long time ago. My rating: 4 Stars.
Brina McConnell returns to her hometown to attend her ten-year high school reunion. Most people don't even recognize her since she has changed from the skinny girl who wore clothes that her mother sewed for her. One guy who does recognize her is Thomas Mack. Thomas had been Brina's best friend throughout childhood. He had also been her boyfriend until Brina dumped him their senior year for the school's star quarterback. Now Thomas is rich and handsome. He wants to see if Brina will pick him this time instead of the quarterback.
This was a cute friends to lover story. I liked both Brina and Thomas. The story only lasts two days, but it felt like enough since the couple actually fell in love a long time ago. My rating: 4 Stars.
February 18, 2011
Reviewed for THC Reviews
Scandalous Lord Dere by Stephanie Laurens - Scandalous Lord Dere is a tender, sensuous friends-to-lovers, reunion story, two of my favorite themes in romance. Stephanie Laurens seems to have a talent for writing richly descriptive prose that isn't at all boring, but instead draws the reader into the story as through they are actually there watching everything unfold. For a novella, I thought that the characterizations and plot were extremely well-developed. Adrian is a rake to be sure, but surprisingly gentle, vulnerable and sympathetic, which is my favorite kind of alpha hero. I loved his possessiveness and his persistence in getting Abby to agree to marry him. Abby was a kind-hearted young woman who had never forgotten her one-time lover, Adrian, but he had also unknowingly broken her heart all those years ago, making her reluctant to accept his proposal now. I thought it was sweet that out of the countless women Adrian had seduced over the years, Abby was the only one he could truly remember in detail even though they had only made love once eight years before. I also like that he had become tired and fed up with his rakish lifestyle and wanted to turn over a new leaf. At the heart of it all, Adrian was a great guy who had simply gotten off track in his wild youth, but what better time for new beginnings than on New Year's Day, the day that he reconnected with Abby, the only woman who had ever truly understood him and that he had ever really cared about.
I found it very endearing that these two were childhood friends who later became more, and was totally enamored of the deep intimacy Adrian and Abby shared. It was often in their quieter moments that this showed through the most. I loved reading about them simply sitting together in Adrian's study while she sketched and he worked. They also had a mutual love of books that I could relate to and their impromptu waltz in the park was very romantic. I just thought these two were completely perfect for one another, and their love scenes absolutely sizzled. Stephanie Laurens is very good at writing varied love scenes that are powerfully passionate and lushly sensual. In general her writing style reminds me a lot of Lisa Kleypas which is a very good thing in my book. It is a rare author who can write a short story and make me feel fully satisfied from beginning to end. This was my first read by Ms. Laurens, and she has impressed me so much, I can say with certainly that it won't be my last. I'm very much looking forward to trying more of her books soon. Star Rating: *****
The Last Love Letter by Victoria Alexander – Considering that The Last Love Letter is a friends-to-lovers, reunion romance, I thought I would really enjoy it, but unfortunately, it didn't quite make the cut for me. I spent a large part of my time reading this novella trying to figure out exactly what wasn't working for me. When I got to the end and read the author's bio, which indicated she used to be a reporter, it finally hit me that the story had seemed more like a news report than a fiction tale in which I could immerse myself and feel the emotions of the characters in a palpable way. In fact, I felt very little connection to the hero and heroine at all. The author also had a tendency toward having the characters ask themselves a few too many rhetorical questions which could get a little annoying.
I think my other issue with this novella is the way in which the plot unfolded and the way that Jason and Rachael responded to those events. They had supposedly known each other for most of their lives, and in my opinion, that should have been the basis of not only a deep love but also a deep trust. In spite of that, they were both overly quick to accept the word of Rachael's father when they knew he was a very hard and callous man who despised the idea of his only daughter being with a penniless untitled gentleman. Then Rachael's first husband, Jason's cousin, George, kept the truth from them for years, and when it finally came out, they weren't even angry with him about it. I don't believe that George was an inherently bad man for doing so, but knowing what they had meant to each other, I thought it was a pretty selfish thing for him to do once he found out. The author did bring some sympathy to the situation with George's illness and all that he had done for, and meant to, Rachael over the years, but still the idea that they wouldn't even be the least bit miffed by his actions was a little hard to swallow. Last but not least, Jason discovered the truth three years before Rachael did and when they saw each other at that time, he tried to tell her the truth, but she stubbornly wouldn't listen. Of course, this led to the dreaded “big misunderstanding” which I definitely don't care for in any romance. When they finally did reunite once and for all and were both privy to the whole truth of how they'd been manipulated ten years earlier, Rachael still held herself at arms length not trusting Jason at all. She was even insisting to herself that she didn't love him and was ready to break all ties until the final few pages which didn't work well for me at all. Everything put together just made it very hard for me to believe that they could finally have an HEA.
The Last Love Letter was my first read by Victoria Alexander. In spite of my criticisms, I wouldn't call it bad, but it was just OK. Any readers who can get past a hero and heroine who seem to be easily manipulated by others and all the anger of numerous past misunderstandings may like this one more than I did. As written, it just wasn't entirely my cup of tea. I'm sure I'll give Ms. Alexander's work another try at some point, but I doubt I'll be burning rubber to do so. Star Rating: ***
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson - Now and Forever is a sweet little friends-to-lovers and reunion romance, two themes I can hardly ever resist. Thomas and Brina have a reunion in the literal sense of the word when they attend their 10th high school class reunion. I loved that they had been lifelong friends throughout childhood. It was rather disappointing that Brina had blown Thomas off for a jock at the end of senior year. It made her seem a little shallow, but given her confidence issues, I guess it made some sense. It's not like she didn't want to remain friends, but Thomas was understandably and deeply hurt. I was glad that during the time since high school, Brina had grown to be comfortable in her own skin and realized what a huge mistake she'd made. Thomas had grown and changed in more way than one too, and seemed to have developed more confidence as well. It might have been nice if he had been a little more settled in his life, but he seemed like a really nice guy.
Even though they hadn't seen or talked to each other in ten years, Thomas and Brina still hadn't stopped thinking of one another. The rekindling of their relationship progressed nicely and had some good sexual tension. I think this novella could have easily been a 5-star read for me except for two small flaws. One is that I wished that Thomas and Brina could have embraced their reunion a little more fully. As written, it felt like they were holding back the whole time, right up until the end. The other is that I felt like the author was sometimes telling a bit more than showing. I think perhaps a little more showing would have improved both the character-to-character and character-to-reader connections. Overall though, Now and Forever was a very solid 4-star story for me that I really enjoyed. It was my first read by Rachel Gibson, but it has definitely left me open to trying her other books. Star Rating: ****
Scandalous Lord Dere by Stephanie Laurens - Scandalous Lord Dere is a tender, sensuous friends-to-lovers, reunion story, two of my favorite themes in romance. Stephanie Laurens seems to have a talent for writing richly descriptive prose that isn't at all boring, but instead draws the reader into the story as through they are actually there watching everything unfold. For a novella, I thought that the characterizations and plot were extremely well-developed. Adrian is a rake to be sure, but surprisingly gentle, vulnerable and sympathetic, which is my favorite kind of alpha hero. I loved his possessiveness and his persistence in getting Abby to agree to marry him. Abby was a kind-hearted young woman who had never forgotten her one-time lover, Adrian, but he had also unknowingly broken her heart all those years ago, making her reluctant to accept his proposal now. I thought it was sweet that out of the countless women Adrian had seduced over the years, Abby was the only one he could truly remember in detail even though they had only made love once eight years before. I also like that he had become tired and fed up with his rakish lifestyle and wanted to turn over a new leaf. At the heart of it all, Adrian was a great guy who had simply gotten off track in his wild youth, but what better time for new beginnings than on New Year's Day, the day that he reconnected with Abby, the only woman who had ever truly understood him and that he had ever really cared about.
I found it very endearing that these two were childhood friends who later became more, and was totally enamored of the deep intimacy Adrian and Abby shared. It was often in their quieter moments that this showed through the most. I loved reading about them simply sitting together in Adrian's study while she sketched and he worked. They also had a mutual love of books that I could relate to and their impromptu waltz in the park was very romantic. I just thought these two were completely perfect for one another, and their love scenes absolutely sizzled. Stephanie Laurens is very good at writing varied love scenes that are powerfully passionate and lushly sensual. In general her writing style reminds me a lot of Lisa Kleypas which is a very good thing in my book. It is a rare author who can write a short story and make me feel fully satisfied from beginning to end. This was my first read by Ms. Laurens, and she has impressed me so much, I can say with certainly that it won't be my last. I'm very much looking forward to trying more of her books soon. Star Rating: *****
The Last Love Letter by Victoria Alexander – Considering that The Last Love Letter is a friends-to-lovers, reunion romance, I thought I would really enjoy it, but unfortunately, it didn't quite make the cut for me. I spent a large part of my time reading this novella trying to figure out exactly what wasn't working for me. When I got to the end and read the author's bio, which indicated she used to be a reporter, it finally hit me that the story had seemed more like a news report than a fiction tale in which I could immerse myself and feel the emotions of the characters in a palpable way. In fact, I felt very little connection to the hero and heroine at all. The author also had a tendency toward having the characters ask themselves a few too many rhetorical questions which could get a little annoying.
I think my other issue with this novella is the way in which the plot unfolded and the way that Jason and Rachael responded to those events. They had supposedly known each other for most of their lives, and in my opinion, that should have been the basis of not only a deep love but also a deep trust. In spite of that, they were both overly quick to accept the word of Rachael's father when they knew he was a very hard and callous man who despised the idea of his only daughter being with a penniless untitled gentleman. Then Rachael's first husband, Jason's cousin, George, kept the truth from them for years, and when it finally came out, they weren't even angry with him about it. I don't believe that George was an inherently bad man for doing so, but knowing what they had meant to each other, I thought it was a pretty selfish thing for him to do once he found out. The author did bring some sympathy to the situation with George's illness and all that he had done for, and meant to, Rachael over the years, but still the idea that they wouldn't even be the least bit miffed by his actions was a little hard to swallow. Last but not least, Jason discovered the truth three years before Rachael did and when they saw each other at that time, he tried to tell her the truth, but she stubbornly wouldn't listen. Of course, this led to the dreaded “big misunderstanding” which I definitely don't care for in any romance. When they finally did reunite once and for all and were both privy to the whole truth of how they'd been manipulated ten years earlier, Rachael still held herself at arms length not trusting Jason at all. She was even insisting to herself that she didn't love him and was ready to break all ties until the final few pages which didn't work well for me at all. Everything put together just made it very hard for me to believe that they could finally have an HEA.
The Last Love Letter was my first read by Victoria Alexander. In spite of my criticisms, I wouldn't call it bad, but it was just OK. Any readers who can get past a hero and heroine who seem to be easily manipulated by others and all the anger of numerous past misunderstandings may like this one more than I did. As written, it just wasn't entirely my cup of tea. I'm sure I'll give Ms. Alexander's work another try at some point, but I doubt I'll be burning rubber to do so. Star Rating: ***
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson - Now and Forever is a sweet little friends-to-lovers and reunion romance, two themes I can hardly ever resist. Thomas and Brina have a reunion in the literal sense of the word when they attend their 10th high school class reunion. I loved that they had been lifelong friends throughout childhood. It was rather disappointing that Brina had blown Thomas off for a jock at the end of senior year. It made her seem a little shallow, but given her confidence issues, I guess it made some sense. It's not like she didn't want to remain friends, but Thomas was understandably and deeply hurt. I was glad that during the time since high school, Brina had grown to be comfortable in her own skin and realized what a huge mistake she'd made. Thomas had grown and changed in more way than one too, and seemed to have developed more confidence as well. It might have been nice if he had been a little more settled in his life, but he seemed like a really nice guy.
Even though they hadn't seen or talked to each other in ten years, Thomas and Brina still hadn't stopped thinking of one another. The rekindling of their relationship progressed nicely and had some good sexual tension. I think this novella could have easily been a 5-star read for me except for two small flaws. One is that I wished that Thomas and Brina could have embraced their reunion a little more fully. As written, it felt like they were holding back the whole time, right up until the end. The other is that I felt like the author was sometimes telling a bit more than showing. I think perhaps a little more showing would have improved both the character-to-character and character-to-reader connections. Overall though, Now and Forever was a very solid 4-star story for me that I really enjoyed. It was my first read by Rachel Gibson, but it has definitely left me open to trying her other books. Star Rating: ****
August 7, 2021
I didn’t card for the modern romance thrown in with the Regency romances. 3 books in one volume. The stories were okay. Not the best.
Read
December 28, 2021DNF 15% into the audiobook
October 31, 2012
I was a bit surprised by the inclusion of a modern romance story at the end of the book, but other than that, the three novellas were good enough. Nothing spectacular, but what can you expect from a novella?
January 31, 2011
For short stories these are really good. Rachel Gibson was my favorite, but the other two were also good.
June 11, 2019
The story ideas were good and held a lot of promise but the end product was so heavy into the sex scenes that the storylines were nearly non existent. I was very disappointed.
March 19, 2019
Concerning Stephanie Laurens’ entry, I’ve got to say that she describes the physical appearance, or maybe it is more correct to say, the physical impact, of her hero very well. He’s one of those guys that takes your breath away and your heart beat faster.
One problem to be overcome in the romance is his richly deserved reputation as a womanizer. It’s a big problem because it’s quite off-putting. He is known as a “master seducer” and I think one time it’s even in capital letters like a job title. He also thinks of this reputation *while* he’s making love to the heroine, and that’s a little gross. Yes, he regrets this about himself to the extent that he has left London, but it’s really more the heartless women there that he blames and not so much his own choices.
There’s a section of dialogue where he’s trying to seduce the heroine (after an absence of eight years), and he mentions the large number of positions he now knows. Yuck! Double yuck! Very clunky! I guess it could be taken to show that his self-concept has been damaged, limited, by the way women have treated him, but hey, he had a say in all that.
On the plus side, the author does show that he is a more well-rounded person than his reputation would indicate: he takes an active and responsible interest in his finances and is a voracious reader. He also appreciates the heroine’s artistic talent and success.
I usually like SL’s shorter works, and there are some good things in this one, but it’s definitely missable. It this isn’t free through your library, don’t bother. (I use the Libby app and love it!)
One problem to be overcome in the romance is his richly deserved reputation as a womanizer. It’s a big problem because it’s quite off-putting. He is known as a “master seducer” and I think one time it’s even in capital letters like a job title. He also thinks of this reputation *while* he’s making love to the heroine, and that’s a little gross. Yes, he regrets this about himself to the extent that he has left London, but it’s really more the heartless women there that he blames and not so much his own choices.
There’s a section of dialogue where he’s trying to seduce the heroine (after an absence of eight years), and he mentions the large number of positions he now knows. Yuck! Double yuck! Very clunky! I guess it could be taken to show that his self-concept has been damaged, limited, by the way women have treated him, but hey, he had a say in all that.
On the plus side, the author does show that he is a more well-rounded person than his reputation would indicate: he takes an active and responsible interest in his finances and is a voracious reader. He also appreciates the heroine’s artistic talent and success.
I usually like SL’s shorter works, and there are some good things in this one, but it’s definitely missable. It this isn’t free through your library, don’t bother. (I use the Libby app and love it!)
March 8, 2022
Tres novelas cortas que giran en torno al tópico de segundas oportunidades en el Año Nuevo. En 2000 las tres autoras estaban al principio de su carrera. Son historias amenas, bien escritas, aunque luego no recuerdes gran cosa.
Stephanie Laurens: «Scandalous Lord Dere» 3,5 estrellas. Lord Dere, libertino en vías de reforma, se reencuentra con Abby, su amor de juventud. Solo que ella no está por la labor de que le rompan el corazón de nuevo.
Victoria Alexander: «The last love letter». 3 estrellas. Tiene el planteamiento más interesante, y la ejecución más pobretona. El reencuentro entre Jason y Rachael es bendecido por unas cartas, las que escribió el difunto marido de ella.
Rachel Gibson: «Now and forever». 4 estrellas. La que más me gustó, unos amigos que se reencuentran. Thomas y Brina eran los raritos en el instituto, pero ahora, en una reunión de antiguos alumnos, son los más guapos y sexis y tó. Reconectan como si el tiempo no hubiera pasado, gustándose tal cual son ahora. Me pareció la más redonda.
En conjunto, una antología notable por lo equilibrada, las tres historias están bien, cada una a su estilo.
Crítica más amplia, en mi blog.
Stephanie Laurens: «Scandalous Lord Dere» 3,5 estrellas. Lord Dere, libertino en vías de reforma, se reencuentra con Abby, su amor de juventud. Solo que ella no está por la labor de que le rompan el corazón de nuevo.
Victoria Alexander: «The last love letter». 3 estrellas. Tiene el planteamiento más interesante, y la ejecución más pobretona. El reencuentro entre Jason y Rachael es bendecido por unas cartas, las que escribió el difunto marido de ella.
Rachel Gibson: «Now and forever». 4 estrellas. La que más me gustó, unos amigos que se reencuentran. Thomas y Brina eran los raritos en el instituto, pero ahora, en una reunión de antiguos alumnos, son los más guapos y sexis y tó. Reconectan como si el tiempo no hubiera pasado, gustándose tal cual son ahora. Me pareció la más redonda.
En conjunto, una antología notable por lo equilibrada, las tres historias están bien, cada una a su estilo.
Crítica más amplia, en mi blog.
January 10, 2021
I read these 3 romantic novellas, two historical and one contemporary, because of the New Year's theme. All 3 are about friends reuniting after several years apart. I don't know if it is because I read these stories along with a short story collection by Georgette Heyer, but I found myself thinking of the graphic sexual scenarios in a totally different light. You will never find the Queen of Regency Romance writing anything more than a kiss in her stories. It was fun to think about the snobbish ton doing the nasty -- especially when you think of all those expensive layers to their outfits. Quite the different flavour for the balls and formals eh?
November 21, 2021
A mixed bag of historical and contemporary stories. Pretty sure I read this in paperback back in the day, but could just be that the stories were similar to others by the same authors.
January 26, 2025
I enjoyed all 3 of these stories, and will be keeping this book to reread again somewhere in the future. My favorite was Stephanie Laurens - Scandalous Lord Dere. 2nd favorite was Victoria Alexander - The Last Love Letter. Both of these authors I'm familiar with and have several of their books. I'm not as familiar with Rachel Gibson, but did enjoy this story
July 19, 2025
The stories by Stephanie Laurens and Victoria Alexander were well written and engaging historical romances. Of the two I enjoyed the Alexander story the most. The third story, by Rachel Gibson, is a modern romance. The plot is OK but the writing is terrible. The story is full of typos and bad grammar.
July 23, 2017
Four stars for Stephanie Laurens' novella
Three stars for those by Victoria Alexander and Rachel Gibson
Three stars for those by Victoria Alexander and Rachel Gibson
January 25, 2018
Good read
A very good read. Loved the story lines. Through turns and twist slowly builds the fears and Romance with her characters.
A very good read. Loved the story lines. Through turns and twist slowly builds the fears and Romance with her characters.
December 12, 2019
I love this book, and have just reread it again. The stories are all great.
April 2, 2021
Good
Nice compilation by some of my most liked authors. I just wish Rachel Gibson’s story was longer... I wanted to know those characters more.
Nice compilation by some of my most liked authors. I just wish Rachel Gibson’s story was longer... I wanted to know those characters more.
June 3, 2023
Short and a bit too sweet with these.
July 28, 2024
Detracting a star because the last story is a contemporary novella, which was like a cold shower after the first two 5 star historical novellas. Did not read #3 because I loathe contemporary.
February 12, 2025
I really enjoyed the first two stories. I was surprised that the last story wasn’t regency/historical so I didn’t read it because I wasn’t disappointed.
March 2, 2025
For all three stories being set on or around New Year's Eve - NYE had nothing to do with any of their plots.
March 15, 2017
Three stories about couples on New Year's Eve. Loved the first story. Liked the second one. The third one was my least favorite.
October 13, 2012
4 stars - Scandalous Lord Dere (Adrian & Abby)
I enjoyed this story. Even as a short, I was able to get a full understanding of the characters, more so of Adrian than of Abby. We really get a sense of Adrian – his past, his hang ups, what affected him, what kind of man he is, and his true intentions. He has many layers. Abby, on the other hand, doesn’t have as many layers but we understand that she’s a good woman – honorable, strong, talented, capable, and reluctant to love because she’s had her heart broken once before.
Once these two meet again, the story then unfolds into what Adrian will do to make amends for what he did and how he will break down Abby’s defenses to convince her to love him..again. It was all very romantic – though it was hard to believe he didn’t remember the night they made love during the snowstorm. He thought it was a VERY vivid dream? Really?
4.5 stars - The Last Love Letter – (Jason & Rachael)
I didn’t expect to like this story as much as I did, I read it last and even considered not reading it based on some reviews I read but I’m glad I gave it a chance. The plot and premise of the story is somewhat of an old recipe about lovers torn apart by some evil force – usually a parent. It’s the same in this case because it was Rachael’s father who caused the couple’s separation.
What I did not expect is the role of George in the story…his character is not a normal part of the “torn lovers” recipe and in this case it’s what made the story heartwarming for me. I cried at George’s letters and confessions. It was written in a way that even though intellectually we want to blame him, we’re unable to emotionally – and neither could the h/h. We actually feel compassion, love, and [if it ever became the case - which it didn’t] protective of George’s actions. It could be said that what he did was selfish, but I would say it was human. When he married Rachael he didn’t know the truth so their marriage was not based on deception. By the time he found out the truth, they were already man and wife. What was he supposed to do then? Give away his wife to another man? The fact that he admitted he couldn’t give her up humanized him for me. He loved her. Truly.
At the very end, we know that Jason and Rachael were soul mates and would end up together, but I had a dwindling wish that Rachael had a big enough heart to have been able to love two men – Jason and George – and that she had told George she loved him while he was still alive.
2 stars - Now & Forever [contemporary romance] – (Thomas & Brina)
This is a highly unoriginal high school reunion story where the nerdy boy (dumped back in HS for a jock) grows up to be a sexy millionaire and the wallflower girl becomes a hot woman with an exciting and daring job. Everything about this story was ok – not good but not bad either. Because I'm not a big fan of contemporary romance, I’m compelled to say that this story may not be worth the time. I’d say skip this – especially if you picked up this book because you like historical romances.
I enjoyed this story. Even as a short, I was able to get a full understanding of the characters, more so of Adrian than of Abby. We really get a sense of Adrian – his past, his hang ups, what affected him, what kind of man he is, and his true intentions. He has many layers. Abby, on the other hand, doesn’t have as many layers but we understand that she’s a good woman – honorable, strong, talented, capable, and reluctant to love because she’s had her heart broken once before.
Once these two meet again, the story then unfolds into what Adrian will do to make amends for what he did and how he will break down Abby’s defenses to convince her to love him..again. It was all very romantic – though it was hard to believe he didn’t remember the night they made love during the snowstorm. He thought it was a VERY vivid dream? Really?
4.5 stars - The Last Love Letter – (Jason & Rachael)
I didn’t expect to like this story as much as I did, I read it last and even considered not reading it based on some reviews I read but I’m glad I gave it a chance. The plot and premise of the story is somewhat of an old recipe about lovers torn apart by some evil force – usually a parent. It’s the same in this case because it was Rachael’s father who caused the couple’s separation.
What I did not expect is the role of George in the story…his character is not a normal part of the “torn lovers” recipe and in this case it’s what made the story heartwarming for me. I cried at George’s letters and confessions. It was written in a way that even though intellectually we want to blame him, we’re unable to emotionally – and neither could the h/h. We actually feel compassion, love, and [if it ever became the case - which it didn’t] protective of George’s actions. It could be said that what he did was selfish, but I would say it was human. When he married Rachael he didn’t know the truth so their marriage was not based on deception. By the time he found out the truth, they were already man and wife. What was he supposed to do then? Give away his wife to another man? The fact that he admitted he couldn’t give her up humanized him for me. He loved her. Truly.
At the very end, we know that Jason and Rachael were soul mates and would end up together, but I had a dwindling wish that Rachael had a big enough heart to have been able to love two men – Jason and George – and that she had told George she loved him while he was still alive.
2 stars - Now & Forever [contemporary romance] – (Thomas & Brina)
This is a highly unoriginal high school reunion story where the nerdy boy (dumped back in HS for a jock) grows up to be a sexy millionaire and the wallflower girl becomes a hot woman with an exciting and daring job. Everything about this story was ok – not good but not bad either. Because I'm not a big fan of contemporary romance, I’m compelled to say that this story may not be worth the time. I’d say skip this – especially if you picked up this book because you like historical romances.
May 25, 2011
Short stories by Stephanie Laurens, Victoria Alexander, and Rachel Gibson; two historicals and a contemporary. They were OK (I think I've read the Laurens story before...) but not amazingly compelling. Each had some pluses to recommend them.
Ms. Laurens' story, Scandalous Lord Dere, has Lord Dere returning to his boyhood home. He and his tiger are waylaid by an unexpected snowstorm and are rescued by his childhood friend and one-time lover, Abby. I do enjoy a good friends-to-lovers story, and this was a fun read.
Ms. Alexander's, The Last Love Letter, sees reunited a couple torn apart when they were young lovers. Separated for ten years by the machinations of others and of circumstance, Jason and Rachael are not sure whether they can make a second go of it. This story was OK, but I didn't feel a deep sense of connection with either character.
Ms. Gibson's Now and Forever is a contemporary story, taking place at a high school reunion. Two friends, both somewhat outcast back in the day, return to take the world (or at least their reunion) by storm. Brina and Thomas even dated briefly senior year, but she tossed him aside when the newly jilted quarterback invited her to prom. Can Thomas forgive her? Do they still have that lovin' feeling? A cute one :)
Ms. Laurens' story, Scandalous Lord Dere, has Lord Dere returning to his boyhood home. He and his tiger are waylaid by an unexpected snowstorm and are rescued by his childhood friend and one-time lover, Abby. I do enjoy a good friends-to-lovers story, and this was a fun read.
Ms. Alexander's, The Last Love Letter, sees reunited a couple torn apart when they were young lovers. Separated for ten years by the machinations of others and of circumstance, Jason and Rachael are not sure whether they can make a second go of it. This story was OK, but I didn't feel a deep sense of connection with either character.
Ms. Gibson's Now and Forever is a contemporary story, taking place at a high school reunion. Two friends, both somewhat outcast back in the day, return to take the world (or at least their reunion) by storm. Brina and Thomas even dated briefly senior year, but she tossed him aside when the newly jilted quarterback invited her to prom. Can Thomas forgive her? Do they still have that lovin' feeling? A cute one :)
September 12, 2015
Scandalous Lord Dere by Stephanie Laurens
A new year brings new scandal when a rake awakens in the bed of the flame-haired temptress who had seduced him years before. All of society has them bedded, but can he convince her to become wedded?
I'd actually rate this as a 3.5 - it was quite funny & enjoyable, & I liked both Adrian & Abby.
The Last Love Letter by Victoria Alexander
When their midnight elopement is foiled, a handsome young earl and his dazzling debutant swear to love each other forever - no matter what. Now it's midnight once again... can their love be rekindled with one perfect kiss?
It was OK, maybe a 3. I liked George the best, even though Rachel & Jason are our lovers.
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson
She's attending her high school reunion as a newly formed ravishing beauty; he's now a sexy, successful and determined to give her her comeuppance. What will happen when the clock strikes twelve?
I give this one a 2. I don't like contemporary romance much & this story didn't change my mind.
Roughly 3 stars all together.
A new year brings new scandal when a rake awakens in the bed of the flame-haired temptress who had seduced him years before. All of society has them bedded, but can he convince her to become wedded?
I'd actually rate this as a 3.5 - it was quite funny & enjoyable, & I liked both Adrian & Abby.
The Last Love Letter by Victoria Alexander
When their midnight elopement is foiled, a handsome young earl and his dazzling debutant swear to love each other forever - no matter what. Now it's midnight once again... can their love be rekindled with one perfect kiss?
It was OK, maybe a 3. I liked George the best, even though Rachel & Jason are our lovers.
Now and Forever by Rachel Gibson
She's attending her high school reunion as a newly formed ravishing beauty; he's now a sexy, successful and determined to give her her comeuppance. What will happen when the clock strikes twelve?
I give this one a 2. I don't like contemporary romance much & this story didn't change my mind.
Roughly 3 stars all together.
November 14, 2012
This is an anthology, three romantic (short) stories from three different authors, two are historical and the last is a contemporary. Why the publisher chose to match the sub-genres, I don't understand?
The historical stories are about couples seperated and then reunited years later. They have to work out their pasts before they can begin their futures. Of course that means flashback chapters and pages of characters reflecting on the past.
I rarely read contemporary romances and the first few pages of this one was full of slang that made the heroine seem like a slut getting dressed for a night out prowling for male prey. Sorry. Not the type of woman I want to spend time with. I stopped reading before the end of the first chapter.
The historical stories are about couples seperated and then reunited years later. They have to work out their pasts before they can begin their futures. Of course that means flashback chapters and pages of characters reflecting on the past.
I rarely read contemporary romances and the first few pages of this one was full of slang that made the heroine seem like a slut getting dressed for a night out prowling for male prey. Sorry. Not the type of woman I want to spend time with. I stopped reading before the end of the first chapter.
January 17, 2013
This is the best anthology I have read. I don't usually like them because the stories are so short and I don't feel I get to know the characters. Not so with these. Each one was very emotionally satisfying.
The first two by Stephanie Laurens and Victoria Alexander are Regencies. The third is a contemporary by Rachel Gibson. I truly loved them all and each had a sigh-worthy HEA. I almost hate to see them end.
The first two by Stephanie Laurens and Victoria Alexander are Regencies. The third is a contemporary by Rachel Gibson. I truly loved them all and each had a sigh-worthy HEA. I almost hate to see them end.
January 10, 2013
I only read the Stephanie Lauren's story in it's entirety (glanced through the second and skipped the third because contemporary romance isn't really my bag) and I thought it was dull as dirt. The writing was uninspired, the characters were flat, and the story blah. I picked up the collection because it was on sale, and it wasn't worth the cents I spent on it.
If you're looking for good romance novellas, try Courtney Milan's "The Governess Affair" or "Unlocked"
If you're looking for good romance novellas, try Courtney Milan's "The Governess Affair" or "Unlocked"
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