A Yuletide Regency

by Regina Scott, Sarah M. Eden, Jen Geigle Johnson

From the publisher of the USA TODAY bestselling & #1 Amazon bestselling Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean & Wholesome Romance, comes A YULETIDE REGENCY.

Six brand new Regency romance novellas by Regina Scott, Sarah M. Eden, Jen Geigle Johnson, Annette Lyon, Krista Lynne Jensen, and Heather B. Moore

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Regency, Historical Fiction, Anthologies, Holiday, Regency Romance

372 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2018

About the author

Regina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first Regency romance was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She is now the author of more than 50 works of warm, witty historical romance.

She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .

Reviews

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What's better than a book written in your favorite genre (or two favorite genres)? 6 novellas written by 6 of your favorite authors, written in your favorite genres!!!! Hee Hee! I love these Timeless Romance collections. They just make me so happy. And can I just say Regency and Christmas combined together...I'm in heaven!!!

I might be gushing just a little bit but I can't help it with this collection. Grab a copy (or of another Timeless Romance collection), snuggle in and read the whole thing in one sitting, or break it up in multiple sittings. That's one of the aspects that I love about these. You can read one novella in a short sitting, or you can become completely lost and immersed in the whole book until you take a breath and realize you finished all 6. Just saying, I wouldn't know anything about that reading it all...*blushes*...ok, maybe I would.

Lots of great humor and sweet, clean and swoony romance for readers to enjoy! And if you haven't read anything by these authors, you're in for a treat!

Content: Clean

I received a copy from an author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Tadiana ✩Night Owl☽ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable fluff. Nothing that sticks in my brain a week or so after finishing it.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful collection of novellas, all set at Christmas during the Regency. Lots of lovely gowns and mistletoe, handsome men in Hessian boots, and ladies in luscious gowns!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great set of stories to get you in the Christmas spirit. I liked each story. All were well developed and each made me smile. I enjoy these sets of short stories:}

[QNPoohBear · Rating 3 out of 5]

An anthology of sweet, clean, Regency romances taking place during the holiday season.

Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott
Mary Rose wishes for one thing for Christmas-the love of her childhood companion, Julian Mayes. Mary's mother is unwell and Mary is concerned but the doctor won't speak to an unmarried girl. If she is married, she can consult with or fire the doctor and figure out how to help her mother. Her mother is pushing Mary to make a match with her other childhood playmate, Mr. Godwin, while Mary's cousin seeks to assert his authority over her. Will she get her Christmas wish?

This story is a little too short and simple for me. It's a prequel to the Fortune's Brides series which I have not yet read. I'm not a fan of immature heroines and heroes. They seem too young to be thinking of marriage. Why is Julian going to earn a living as a solicitor? Is he a younger son? Why doesn't his father make him an allowance in the meantime? If he's of a different social station than Mary, then I don't think they can be married. I'm interested more in finding out what happened to these two once they matured a bit. On the plus side, the period details are great and I love the romantic picture of a winter wonderland Christmas Regina Scott creates.

In A Yuletide Match by Sarah M. Eden, a widower with a young son seeks a matchmaker to find him a new wife and mother to his son. The solution may be closer than he thinks.

I really liked this sweet story. I love the idea of a shy, introverted hero. Porter Bartrum is a classic introvert. While he enjoys socializing at small gatherings, large parties and balls make him nervous. He has a tough time speaking what's on his mind and in his heart. Porter is a good father, perhaps spoiling his son too much. I hated four-year-old Lewis. He's a spoiled brat and in need of a good "NO!" more often. He can't be missing the mother he never really knew and children at that time spent more time in the nursery than with their parents. No excuses. Adelaide Northrop is a mysterious, intriguing woman. I'd like to know more about her. I really liked Chloe, especially when she was being forthright. She's maybe a bit too good for me but I enjoyed her. This is my favorite story in the collection.

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson features a newly minted Duke feeling the pressure to find a wife. When he chooses the most beautiful woman in the room to waltz with, thinking she's the one his father intended for him, he is smitten. Unfortunately, he discovers she is the Juliet to his Romeo. The Duke of Salsbury just wants to end the feud. Catherine Aster sees the man the Duke is inside and knows he could never be her enemy but her uncle is determined to perpetuate the feud.

There are too many errors in titles and plausibility. I found the mystery of the feud compelling enough to keep reading the whole story long after I should have been asleep but the romance didn't do anything for me. My favorite character is the Duke's sister, Penelope.

In Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon, Eleanor Hadfield is the governess to her cousin's children at Willowsmeade, the home where she grew up as a poor relation. She insists on making her own way and one day will move on, despite the hurt it will cause leaving her family. Marriage is not for her. That ship sailed long ago. Julian Stephens has returned to England from a life in the Royal Navy just in time for Christmas. He decides to spend the holiday with his boyhood friend, Mr. Bunson, on the estate where Julian's father was once gardner. Julian never expects to see Eleanor Hadfield there! His old friend has grown more lovely in his absence but the gulf between their stations is wider than ever. When his host suggests a ball to find Julian a wife, Julian is dismayed. There's only one woman for him!

This is a really cute story despite the implausibility of it all. I liked sensible, kind Eleanor a lot. The children seemed realistic and mildly amusing. They seem to love Eleanor and she loves them. Her cousin Henry Brunson is too kind and generous for a man of his time period. Aside from the instalove factor, I liked Julian too. To be fair, he carried a torch for Eleanor all along but he should get to know her better as adults.

Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen at first seems like the usual impoverished heroine marrying to save her family home plot. Arabelle's brother recently died of consumption leaving Hybrigge house in the hands of a distant relative, a Mr. Forbes, a stranger. Arabelle needs to marry someone who will look after her, her mother and her little niece, as well as the estate. Isaac Linfield returns from the battlefield broken and devastated to learn of the death of his best friend. He arrives at Hybrigge House to express his condolences, not to save the ladies, despite the fact that something about Mr. Forbes doesn't seem right. He's too broken for any lady to want. How can he marry and have a family?

This mundane story is saved by the disabled hero. He was not just wounded in the war but lost a hand and a leg! His trauma lingers and affects his sense of self-worth. The rest of the plot is predictable and not all that plausible. If the estate is entailed, it can't be bought and sold! The heroine is all right but tends to have moments of self-doubt and other moments where she's a sacrificial lamb. Her niece is an obnoxious toddler who has Arabelle wrapped around her thumb.

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore has a similar premise to the previous story. The heroine, Celia Thompson's brother died in the colonies leaving her orphaned and alone. The new Earl, a stranger, will soon arrive and Celia will have to leave her beloved home. If only she could sell her novel and make money to support herself and not be dependent on her aunt's whims. Mr. Aaron Thompson, the new Lord Banfield, is unused to the life of a titled nobleman. He wants to do what is right by Celia but the girl is prickly. Prickly and beautiful! He needs her help to fill her brother's shoes but finds himself wanting to console the girl more than he ought.

This is a really nice story. If you ignore the fact that somehow Aaron inherited through his grandmother and ignore the instalove, the story is more enjoyable. I loved Aaron! Any man who rescues a dog like Stanley from the streets is my kind of hero. Stanley is an adorable, elderly mutt and Aaron's best friend. Celia's attitude towards Stanley is awful and made me not like her. I wanted to like her because she's a writer and fiercely independent, but I could not. Her attitude changes from antagonistic to watering pot in a minute and back again. She sounds younger than she is with all her emotional changes. The timeline of the romance doesn't work for me but the romance itself is very sweet.

Overall, this is a forgettable collection of Regency stories not worth the $4.99 price.

[Mara · Rating 5 out of 5]

What's better than a Christmas romance story? How about a Regency Christmas story? How about 6 Yuletide Regency stories by some of your favorite or soon-to-be favorite authors? Yes. It's another Timeless Romance collection!!

ALWAYS KISS AT CHRISTMAS by Regina Scott--Mary Rose has prepared everything, including a kissing bough, for the Christmas Eve party. Her mother's health is failing and as usual there's an "odious" relative waiting in the wings to take over the property. Mary believes if she can get Julian, a childhood best friend, to kiss her he'll realize they're supposed to be together.

I loved Mary's biting wit. She could be quite blunt for someone who's only supposed to be 16 years old, and since women during this period of time were supposed to be demure it made be really like her. I liked this "origin story" although I haven't read any of the other books in the Fortune's Bride series.

A YULETIDE MATCH by Sarah M. Eden--Another story with the famed matchmaker, Mrs. Adelaide Northrup. She's been hired by Porter Bartrum, a young widower with a very young son, to find him a wife as he has no idea what he's doing. Mrs. Northrup, Porter, his best friend, Vance, and Vance's sister, Chloe all attend a house party where Mrs. Northrup will surreptitiously work her famed matchmaker magic.

I loved this story. Poor Porter was a complete mess as far as talking to women and trying to find himself a wife and a mother for his young son Lewis. I loved Mrs. Northrup's tactics to get him to see what had been in front of him for quite awhile. A sweet humorous story.

THE FORBIDDEN DUKE by Jen Geigle Johnson--When the new Duke of Salsbury dances with the wrong woman at the Christmas ball it sets the Ton talking. It was Lady Catherine Aster, whose family has been in a decades long feud with the Salsburys. Not only did they share a waltz but the Duke and Lady Catherine find themselves attracted to each other. If only they can find out what started the feud between their families.

I liked how this story started with a case of mistaken identity and then mutual attraction even though their families have hated each other for many years. I love a good mystery and enjoyed how the Duke and Lady Catherine found out what started the feud.

MISTLETOE AT WILLOWSMEADE by Annette Lyon--Eleanor Hadfield is the governess of the Brunson family. She's also a cousin to the Patriarch of the family, Henry Brunson. Julian Stephens was the son of the Brunson's gardener when Henry and Eleanor where growing up. He'd joined the navy and now, 10 years later, was a Captain. Julian comes to Willowsmeade for Christmas, and Eleanor remembers how they felt about each other so long ago, but each feels their status is below the other.

Who doesn't love a childhood-romance-turns-into-love story? Eleanor firmly believed she'd never marry. Julian believes he's below her station (although she's a governess), and she believes she's below Julian's because of his naval rank. When these two finally get around to talking instead of thinking they know how the other feels they realize they can both have what they've wanted for the past 10 years.

FOLLOW THE RIVER HOME by Krista Lynne Jensen--Arabelle (Abby) Hyatt finds herself seriously considering marriage to the supposedly wealthy Mr. Forbes, but only to save her and her family (her mother, and her very young orphaned niece) from being put out of their beloved home. As often happened during this time period the home has an entailment and will soon belong to the next male heir, Mr. Forbes. This maybe their last Christmas at Hybrigge. When a childhood friend, Isaac Linfield, comes to visit and Arabelle begins to have doubts about marrying Mr. Forbes, but Isaac was severely wounded in the war and feels he is less than Arabelle deserves.

This is a new author to me and I enjoyed this story. An accident shows Arabelle Mr. Forbes true colors and Isaac that he can still has something to offer Arabelle besides following her deceased brother's wishes. Arabella is a strong young woman raising her niece and trying to save her family from being tossed out of their home.

THE NEW EARL by Heather B. Moore--Celia Thompson's brother is recently deceased and she's prepared herself to move in with her eccentric aunt's and become a spinster, or possibly a governess. She thinks that's better than living off of the charity of the new Lord Banfield, the "odious" Mr. Aaron Thompson. Aaron Thompson and his old dog, Stanley, are new to the life of an Earl, his clothes are well kept, but worn, and he arrives with only one trunk of belongings and no valet. (shocking, right?) Aaron expects Lady Celia to be a young girl, and is quite surprised to find a 23 year old woman. Celia is just is just as surprised to find a man close in age to her brother rather than an old man.

I've loved everything I've read by Heather Moore and this was no exception. I loved the surprise both characters felt when they realized their preconceived notions about each other couldn't have been farther from reality. Celia plans to stay through Christmas and helps Aaron learn about the history of the house, how it's run, etc. I liked that Celia is writing a romance novel and that Aaron's Christmas gift to her is such a thoughtful one--a box containing a quill, ink and ink remover (for her fingers).

I enjoy all of these collections because you can either read it all at once or read a story here and there when you have the time. All of these stories are clean romances with just kissing.

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great collection of stories!!! I enjoyed them all and had several favorites. As much as I love Regency romances, I love *Christmas* Regency romances even more! There's something sweet about the traditions that are specific to the era, like the yule log, and the ones that have stood the test of time that we still celebrate today, like mistletoe and Christmas trees. While some of the plots had more drama than the others, for the most part the novellas were pleasant and compelling, and I loved the feeling of connecting to the characters quickly and experiencing the season with them as they overcame personal and societal struggles to achieve a lovely happily-ever-after. A wonderful anthology that is perfect for reading during the busy holiday season!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a charming collection of Regency Christmas stories that really warm the heart and delight the soul. As always, with these Timeless Romance Collections, they can be read a story at a time or all at once and each offering gives the reader a taste of different aspects of Regency life.

I loved the kissing bough and the childhood friendship that connects Julian and Mary in ALWAYS KISS AT CHRISTMAS.

The idea of a matchmaker, and a successful one at that, delivered an appealing story in A YULETIDE MATCH. The antics were fun and entertaining.

THE FORBIDDEN DUKE made me laugh and kept me very entertained, with the mix-up and the slight, intriguing mystery.

MISTLETOE AT WILLOWSMEADE produced a slightly sentimental feeling, especially as this story is all about giving up on dreams and accepting a future different from the one that was planned. Yet, there is a thread of hope and second chances that drifts through the pages.

Self-sacrifice is a strong theme in FOLLOW THE RIVER HOME. I love how true character is revealed and the heart is followed.

Misconceptions take the characters by surprise in THE NEW EARL. I loved the characters, especially the dog, and the way Aaron and Celia came to know each other so thoroughly and quickly.

Content: mild romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

[Susan Snodgrass · Rating 4 out of 5]

I purely love a good Regency and was happy to dive into this one. I thoroughly enjoyed the works listed here. My favorite was the contribution by Regina Scott, whose Regencies I have had the pleasure of reading in the past. I thoroughly recommend this collection of Christmas Regencies.


*My thanks to the publisher and author for a copy of this book.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

My biggest complaint (as with most novellas) is I don’t want the story to finish! I enjoyed the peek into the lives of all the characters, but now I want to hear more! Thanks for the book!

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I have read and enjoyed Scott’s work before, the other authors are ones I have not had the opportunity to pick up until now. For the most part, I enjoyed the stories set during my favorite time period, and at my favorite time of the year.

Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott

Always a favorite for me, Scott’s novella, a prequel to her Fortune’s Brides series, did not disappoint. It was a little bittersweet since I know many years of fear and loneliness await the heroine before she gets her own happily ever after (it is coming, right?), but peeking into the past of Mary and Julian’s romance was exquisite and I came to love the characters even more. Mary’s sometimes biting wit offered many a chuckle as did Julian’s refusal to see himself as her perfect complement.

A Yuletide Match by Sarah M. Eden

I liked this story of friends who come to see each other as their perfect match, perhaps too late once a professional matchmaker gets involved. The back and forth nature of their clarity and understanding, all while despairing of the other’s ever realizing it, kept up the tension and made the ending even sweeter.

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson

I really enjoyed this story about rival families and appreciated the sweet secondary storyline about how those with mental disabilities could be treated during the Regency. Unfortunately, my enjoyment was marred by some unexpected language late in the story. Without that, this would have been a near perfect read for me.

Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon

An instance of childhood friends meeting again, I loved this tale that reminded me a bit of Austen’s Persuasion (yes, likely because of the older heroine and Naval Captain). Eleanor and Julian’s romance is made even better by the fact that they had to wait more than a decade for their own happily ever after.

Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen

I have never read anything else by this author, but after this novella, I can't wait to read more! It was a beautiful mix of poignant remembering and hopefully considering the future, a reminder that even with monumental losses, there is still a reason to laugh and love and live. The romance was first rate and a perfect holiday read!

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore

While I enjoyed this somewhat unlikely romance, a stray curse word (which even the author acknowledged through her characters was cursing) ruined, for me, what should have been one of the most beautiful moments of the book, however, I liked the characters and how they found love when least expected.

This collection will be enjoyed by fans of Christmas stories, novella collections, and these authors. Though unconnected except in time period and Christmas settings, the novellas are a nice length to be enjoyed in and around other seasonal activities.

I received a free copy of this book from the authors and publisher, but was not required to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

[Melody · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked ALWAYS KISS AT CHRISTMAS okay, but it wasn't my favorite in the collection. I did like how the one fellow with the pads wasn't portrayed as completely pompous; there was room left for him to grow and mature.

I liked A YULETIDE MATCH. It was interesting to see the tweaks the matchmaker brought to an already good relationship.

I really liked THE FORBIDDEN DUKE. I think I'm a bit of a rebel about regency culture, because I always seem to really like the stories that aren't completely proper. I enjoyed the main characters' relationship from the first scandalous dance until the end. I liked Penelope and her story. And I liked that the plot was unique. One thing I didn't care for, though, was how unattractive the lady the duke was first supposed to dance with was. That just made it feel like most of his attraction for Lady Catherine was because of looks. But overall, this was a great story.

MISTLETOE AT WILLOWSMEADE was okay. Its saving grace was that Julian did decide to ask Eleanor what she thought instead of just assuming, but it annoys me when the characters of a story think they're not good enough for each other.

I also really liked FOLLOW THE RIVER HOME. I generally prefer comedic to dramatic because I like to be entertained and because in these types of stories, the drama often stands on things that seem too unrealistic, but I felt like in this story, Isaac actually did have an understandable reason for thinking he wasn't good enough for Abby, even though she didn't. It even addressed that exact thing...that though there are times when we wouldn't consider another person in our shoes as less than enough, when it's ourselves there, sometimes we do. Anyway, I also liked how bold and direct and strong Abby was, too (against regency culture a bit, ;-) ).

I liked THE NEW EARL. Aaron had the refreshing views and tendencies of someone not in the upper class, and I liked that.

Content: no sex. An instance of mild language.

Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy of this book.

[Donna Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

These novellas were all well written and great stories for the holiday season. All were sweet, clean romances.

[Jessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm on a Christmas kick this week and it's making me want to whip out the Christmas decorations before the turkey's even been cooked!

Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott

Mary Rose's mother is ill and she wants to see Mary married. She keeps pushing her daughter at Chester Goodwin, a guest at their annual Christmas party, but the man Mary truly longs for is her former friend, Julian Mayes. Can Mary convince him that they are meant to be together? Maybe with the help of well placed mistletoe.
What I loved about this story was Mary's independence. She was bound and determined to take control of her own future, and she knew exactly what she wanted. I also loved how her servants were so willing to help her.

A Yuletide Match by Sarah Eden

This story was one of my favorites. Matchmaker Adelaide Northrop is at it again. She is invited to a house party to help Porter Bartrum, a widower, find a new wife. Porter's best friend, Vance Munson, and Vance's sister, Chloe are invited to the Ellsworth’s House party as well. Mrs. Northrop quickly sees that the answer has been right under Porter's nose all along.
This story was filled with snowball fights, mistletoe, and Porter's adorable four year old son, Lewis. I loved watching Porter figure out what he did and did not want in a wife, and the playfulness of his and Chloe's relationship.

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson

Stephen Harrington, Duke of Salsbury is supposed to hate all Asters. When he mistakes Lady Catherine Aster for someone else at a ball and asks her to dance, he stirs up quite a bit of trouble. I loved watching these two navigate their family feud, untangle all of the deception, and finally claim a bit of happiness for themselves.

Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon

Eleanor Hadfield is a governess to the Brunson family (her cousin Henry). She isn't really looking for marriage anymore until an old friend, Julian Stephens, comes for a visit. The part of this story that I loved best was how Eleanor's cousin accepted her as part of the family, not the hired help, and nudged her relationship along. He was a great advocate!

Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen

When Arabelle's brother, George, and his wife, Jane, die in a carriage accident, she is left with the care of their three year old daughter Eleanor and her mother. She needs to marry soon, or they will have nowhere to live. A Mr. Forbes seems interested, but will he care for Eleanor like she does. When George's friend Isaac Linfield shows up for the holiday, Arabelle finds herself wishing that he would court her instead.

I love how this story showcased Isaac's war injuries, and how the right person would not see him as broken or less. It was heartwarming to see Isaac grow and accept himself.

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore

Celia Thompson is to be ousted out of her home after her father's death. His second cousin is coming to inherit. She doesn't expect Mr. Aaron Thompson to be so young, handsome, or kind. He somehow thought she would be a young girl, not a beautiful woman. When the local vicar tells Mr. Thompson that he must find a wife, Mr. Thompson starts to realize that nobody could be a better fit for him than Celia.
This one was quick in the "falling in love" stage, but I loved how Aaron valued Celia's opinions and supported her.

Overall, a sweet collection perfect to get you in the mood for the holidays, and maybe have you looking for a sprig of mistletoe.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Yuletide Regency is my favorite of A Timeless Romance series. It is a collection of six Christmas time stories These stories include:
Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott
A Yuletide Match by Sarah M. Eden
The Forbidden Duke Jen Geigle Johnson
Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon
Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen
The New Earl by Heather B. Moore
I enjoyed every one of these clean and sweet stories. I would highly recommend it. Perfect to read during the holidays or any other time of the year.
5 plus stars.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Alisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all the books in this collection, but my favorite was "The Forbidden Duke" by Jen Geigle Johnson. (I may have gone back and re-read that first dance scene!)

Source: Purchased on Amazon.com

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Yuletide Regency by Various Authors
A Timeless Romance Anthology Book Twenty-One
I enjoyed all of the stories in this book, even though the only author I've read before is Regina Scott.

Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott is part of her Fortune's Brides Series. It's where the story of Mary Rose and Julian Mayes begins. I highly recommend the series.

A Yuletide Match by Sarah M. Eden: Adelaide Northrop, well-known for her matchmaking skills, has been hired by widower Mr. Porter Bartrum. He is looking for a wife who will also love his very active son. A house party is just the setting for her to fulfill her job.

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson: Stephen, Duke of Salsbury, is to marry. His father arranged the marriage before passing away. It never bothered him until he danced with the wrong woman. Wrong in more ways than not being his intended.

Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon: Eleanor, firmly on the shelf, was glad she had a home with her cousin and his family. She loved be a governess for his children; since she'd be having no family of her own. And then, an old friend comes back for Christmas.

Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen: To save their home, Arabelle is being courted by the relative who has assumed her the title her brother should have...if he were still alive. She's given herself over to the fact she must marry him for her the sake of her mother, and herself. But when a surprise visitor comes back for Christmas...she has second thoughts.

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore: Celia Thompson not only lost her parents, now she was about to lose the only home she's ever known. The next in line had come to claim his inheritance and she'd be going to live with her aunt. She did think her father's cousin would be older...and not nearly so handsome.
**Book received from one of the authors for an honest review
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The course of true love never did run smooth.

My review is for Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott.

Now that enough bits and pieces of Meredith’s story have been revealed (in the Fortune’s Brides series), author Regina Scott can tell us the beginning of her story. Believe it or not, knowing the details in this prequel would give things away. . .

This was everything I have come to expect from this author, but in a smaller package, a novella. The length was just right to cover the events of this memorable Christmas Eve. While this story had a satisfying ending and could easily stand alone, readers of the series will recognize that it is just a hint of things to come. An explanation and cause for more questions.

The story is witty, lighthearted, sweet, and romantic. As Mary attempts to orchestrate circumstances so Julian will kiss her, all manner of occurrences work together to frustrate her plans. To quote the Bard

The course of true love never did run smooth.

Lysander

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

I love the characters and am looking forward to reading more of the stories in the series. Stay tuned! Never Vie for a Viscount is coming, hopefully by the end of the year.


This review was originally posted on Among the Reads


I was given a free copy of this item. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review is for the first novella of this collection, titled Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott. I look forward to also reading the other novellas in this set of stories in the future.

Always Kiss at Christmas is the backstory for the characters, Julian & Meredith (known as Mary in this story). They are characters from the Fortune’s Brides series and it was so sweet, and quite fun, to read more about them when they were young.

This is a charming Christmas novella and a great choice for reading during the holiday season.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Katri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christmas books in March? Why not. The world is already turned upside down thanks to Covid19.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked all of them ummmm except the last one. I know it was common back then for cousins to marry each other but I really….. just too weird to read a romance novel. Granted they were second cousins twice removed and didn’t know each other until he inherited her dead fathers estate, but like still 💀 it was weird to me. AND IF THEY MENTIONED IT ONCE and then ignored the family thing, i MAYBE could have forgotten that they were related, but even like during the proposal they mentioned their shared genes 🧬 I just. I’m sorry. Call me out for looking at history through 21st century eyes but I can’t. I skimmed all of the last story

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I usually enjoy these compilations a bit more than this one. Similar thematic elements and plots, from my perspective (which is kind of understandable since there are many authors contributing). Anyway, I enjoyed the other books of this type more.

[Lisa Swinton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Obviously there are more than a few books in this series, and I've been satisfied with each one I've read.
This one wasn't any different.

Wonderful authors who know their craft creating romantic tension between their flawed characters that have you rooting for HFA from page one of each story.

These are indeed timeless holiday reads.

Pick up and enjoy.

[Adrienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott
Mary Rose's mother's health is failing, and since their estate will pass to an odious relative upon her mother's death, Mary Rose knows what she needs to do at her family's yearly Christmas party: get Julian, her childhood whom she has always cared for, to kiss her under the mistletoe, which will surely get him to realize he wants to marry her...despite the fact that he is focused on his career and not ready to take a wife. However, getting him beneath the mistletoe proves to be harder than she expected.

A Yuletide Match by Sarah M. Eden
Renowned matchmaker Adelaide Northrup has contracted to help Porter Bartum find a wife. As a widower with a young child, he needs a woman willing to love his daughter as well. Mrs. Northrup soon realizes what Porter has failed to see: he already has the perfect candidate for a wife in his friend Chloe, who, if Mrs. Northup isn't mistaken, cares for Porter even more than she does his child. Now the matchmaker just needs to get the two of them to realize--and admit--their feelings.

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson
The Salsbury and Asters don't mix, as an age-old quarrel has kept the rivals thoroughly at odds. When the Duke of Salsbury mistakes Lady Catherine for someone else, however, and draws her into a dance, he realizes that it's time to find a way to end the feud between the families so he can follow his heart.

Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon
Eleanor Hadfield and Julian Phillips grew up together--she the orphaned relation, he the gardener's son. Now Eleanor works as a governess for her cousin's children and Julian is a successful Navy captain. When Julian comes back to Willowsmeade for Christmas, Eleanor knows that her hopes of a match between them, something she has wanted for years, isn't possible; he can't lower his station to marry her. For his part, Julian, despite his successful career, knows the gardener's son can't wed the lady, even if she has become a governess.

Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen
Arabelle doesn't really want to marry Mr. Forbes, the relative who inherited her home, but she's decided she must do it for her family's sake. Then Isaac Linfield, a friend of her late brother's whom Arabelle has known since childhood, comes home from war--injured physically and emotionally--and visits Arabelle and her mother. The more she is around him, the more Arabelle realizes that he, and not Mr. Forbes, is who she cares for, but Isaac feels he's too broken to offer her anything, which may leave her with no choice but to wed Mr. Forbes to help her family.

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore
With her brother's death, Celia knows she must leave her home so that a distant cousin can inherit. Before she has a chance to do so, though, the odious man arrives--except, it turns out Aaron Thompson, the new Lord Banfield, isn't odious after all. He might be overly attached to a scruffy dog would fit better in the stables than in the house, but other than that, he's kind and handsome and intriguing. While Celia helps him learn about the estate and being an earl, others are determined to find him a wife--but Aaron realizes that he might not have to look any farther than his new home to find her.

I really enjoyed all of these stories and can't even pick a favorite. There are great characters and fun plots and the added bonus of a Christmas setting. These six novellas are a great choice heading into the holiday season. Take a break, grab a blanket, and snuggle up for a good read.

4 stars.

I read a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Amy Koster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pull out your warm socks and heat up some hot chocolate! This collection of Yuletide stories will get you in the mood for the holidays. Each story has its own unique take on the Christmas Season during Regency times. They are filled with fun settings, creative circumstances, and swoon-worthy romance. They are novellas which give you that quick-fix you need.

The authors in this collection are some of my very most favorites. I have enjoyed many of these anthologies and this one is no different. The stories and clean and well-written. Grab a copy!

*Please note I received a complimentary copy of this book. I am under no obligation to leave a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5.0

This wintry collection starts out strong with the story of Mary who is ready to fight for her destiny.

Read full review in the 2019 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

1. Always kiss at Christmas – Regina Scott (2 stars)
The author cites this as being an “origin story” which I supposed is like a prequel. Or a very long prologue. Mary, the heroine is only 16 in the story. A bit of a disappointment really.
Watching her ailing mother get weaker, Mary is frustrated that the physician treats her like an empty headed twit refusing to divulge any information on what exactly her mother’s illness is or how bad. Deciding that were she to be married to her childhood BF, Julian, a rising solicitor, the physician would listen to her for fear of her husband if nothing else.
Mary figures that a kiss would make Julian realize that she is what he wants in a wife & thereafter does everything possible to catch him under the kissing bough during a house party.
2. A Yuletide Match – Sarah M. Eden (3 stars)
Porter Bartrum (what a name!) is widowed with a young, rambunctious son but has himself failed in finding a new wife/mother for his son & rather in desperation seeks help from Mrs Northrop (who rather thinks he is hopeless in having to ask for her help :))
Another sweet story by Ms Eden of the famous matchmaker, Mrs Northrop! The hero takes his BF & his BF’s sister, Chloe into his confidence, hoping that no one will realize exactly why Mrs Northrop is there for. I loved the relationship between Porter, Chloe and Lewis (the son). From the start, the connection between Chloe & Lewis was obvious – she has always been a fixture in his life & is the 1 person who takes him totally in her stride and nothing he does throws her off; she manages him beautifully. It was amusing and touching to see how Porter somewhat panics when Mrs Northrop arranges rendezvous for him with other potential matches & he retreats to look for Chloe.

3. The Forbidden Duke – Jen Geigel Johnson (2 stars)
A bit of a Romeo/Juliet story with 2 families that have been at odds with each other. When Stephen, the Duke of Salsbury mistakes Catherine the daughter of the Duke Aster for the young lady his family intends him to marry, an attraction springs up between the 2 as they share a dance. Even after finding out each other’s identity and despite the difference between the 2 families, both continue to engineer meetings away from their respective families.
I can’t say I enjoyed this story much. The writing was rather tepid and the characters somewhat flat.
4. Mistletoe at Willowsmeade- Annette Lyon (3 stars)
A sweet story of young lovers separated when Stephen – the gardener’s son leaves to make his fortune, determined to better his station so that he can be worthy of Eleanor. But when her father dies leaving her without a dowry and penniless, Eleanor finds instead that it is her prospects that are dismal. But with the support of her cousin, her uncle reluctantly has her educated and Eleanor is happy to be the governess to her cousin’s large family.
When Stephen returns a naval captain after 10 year, both are uncertain of each other’s feelings but of course it ends happily.
5. Follow the River Home Krista Lynne Jensen 4 stars
Arabelle (Abby) and her mother are at risk of losing their family home when her brother and his wife die leaving their entailed estate to a distant relation. With her young orphaned niece left to her care, Abby let’s herself be persuaded by her mother to welcome any suit Mr Foster (the relative) presses on her. A marriage would save all the 3 ladies – is their hope.
Abby’s brother writes to his best and childhood friend to ensure his family is safe and taken care of after he dies. Isaac is a war hero, gravely injured in the war, when his heroics saves his commanding officer at the cost of himself losing both an arm and a leg. Thinking himself less a man because of his injuries, he does not act on his feelings for Abby. His handicap doesn’t stop him from saving Abby and Eleanor when an accident plunges both into a swiftly running river (Mr Foster balks; reluctant to get his Hessians wet!)
Definitely my fav story. Sweet, touching and tender. Both Abby & Isaac are amazing characters and the story was wonderfully told.
6. The New Earl - Heather B. Moore (3 stars)
Celia is orphaned after her older brother dies in battle & her father’s 2nd cousin ends up with the title. A stranger, Celia is anxious even though a letter from the new Earl offers her to remain living in her home. When the new Earl arrives, Celia is surprised to find a young, handsome man, even if he owns a scruffy old dog and is dressed in simple, rather worn clothes.
Aaron, the new Earl is an accountant, & is uncomfortable with his new position but determined to do the best he can to manage the estate. When the vicar comes to visit, he presses Aaron to take a wife as the best solution for the situation, given that he & Celia can’t continue to live in the same house unchaperoned.
The story was short, but well written and enjoyable

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALWAYS KISS AT CHRISTMAS by Regina Scott

I loved the premise of this book, the longing of a simple kiss under the mistletoe, that is chased throughout the novella. I was rooting for Mary, not only hoping that she would get her kiss, but also that she is able to make her feelings known to Julian, the man that she loves, and seal her fate for the future. A sweet ending is perfect for this simple and sweet novella.

A YULETIDE MATCH by Sarah M. Eden

Porter is a single father in search of a mate, so he calls in the infamous Adelade with help to find him a wife. Little does he realize that his lady love is right under his nose. Adelade takes great pleasure in pretending to create a love connection when she is really trying to make Porter, and his lady friend Chloe, realize their true feelings for each other on their own.

While I normally love the stories of the matchmaker Adelade, I did not connect with any of the characters nor the story itself. I felt like the story was rushed and as a whole lacked depth. Porter's personality seemed dry and dull to me, but I loved Chloe and her carefree attitude. I really wanted to love this story but it was a struggle for me to reach the end.

THE FORBIDDEN DUKE by Jen Geigle Johnson

Family secrets. Feuding families. A chance meeting that brings a Salsbury and an Aster together, which is forbidden, though neither Stephen, the new Duke of Salsbury, or Lady Catherine, from the house of Aster, can understand. The attraction between Stephen and Catherine leads them both to uncover family secrets that can threaten their very wellbeing, creating a mini-mystery of sorts.

While the plot was intriguing, I never quite connected with the characters. I didn't feel the strife of feuding families was there which made me lack that connection and sympathy for their plight. Though there was an alluring premise, I felt The Forbidden Duke lacking.

MISTLETOE AT WILLOWSMEADE by Annette Lyon

A love that is confessed as a young sailor to a young woman many years ago, before he is to ship out, is shrugged off as a youthful act, with the true meaning shrouded in mystery. Years later, when the two are reunited at Christmastime, questions abound as both parties wonder what is going through the mind of the other.

With a sweet premise, this short novella is quite charming. There is no real drama, the only tension lying on the whole will they/won't they aspect. The imagery of the Willowsmeade house and the excitement for the upcoming holiday is contagious. This truly is a sweet and perfect little holiday read.

FOLLOW THE RIVER HOME by Krista Lynne Jensen

War brings with it a huge price. Some pay with time away from family, some pay with a permanent injury, and many pay with their lives. Those that are left often deal with guilt, wondering how or why they are still here. Isaac has lost his hand and leg in battle. While he is on leave his best friend and his best friends' wife fall gravely ill and die soon after. So much loss.

Arabelle has lost her brother and sister-in-law, leaving in their wake a sweet one-year-old daughter named Eleanor, and their mother, Mrs. Hygatt, to all fend for themselves. The situation is dire and Mrs. Hyatt feels their only solution is for Arabelle to marry a man not for love but for means.

It is easy to feel their plight through the pages. Your heart aches for the situation that they are all left in and pray for a happy solution. This novella is jam packed with emotion, drama, and even a little suspense. It is an enjoyable story that is beautifully written and a joy to read.

THE NEW EARL by Heather B. Moore

Normally when you read a regency novel the duke or earl's character is well-polished and in complete control of whatever situation they are in. That is not so in The New Earl. Aaron has become the new earl due to a death, and he is completely unprepared, never having such an important role. Celia is still mourning the death of her brother and now she has to deal with a new earl, and is being pushed out of the only home she knows.

The tension between Celia and Aaron is immediate, the chemistry flowing between them without either of them really realizing it. Aaron's curiosity about Celia's late nights and zest to learn his new role as earl is charming and I love that Celia is a strong, independent woman who knows and understands both her situation and her lot in life.

Heather B. Moore hit a home run with this novella and it is the perfect way to end A Yuletide Regency. I loved the flow and almost wish The New Earl could've been a full novel! Wonderful read!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. All opinions are my own.

[Larry · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an anthology of regency Christmas tales.

It opens strong with a charming tale by Regina Scott wherein our heroine is in danger as her mother is ill, her doctor refuses to tell her ought and is in cohorts with one of the villains, and her villainous cousin stands to inherit everything-the only cure is for her to find a strong match, a hero to put the evil doctor in his place and help sort the problems. She has the hero in mind, but can she convince him of their suitability and save herself and her family?
The problem is well presented and the writing is strong-Scott has a nice nack for clever word play and the tone, despite the serious problems is charming. Despite it being a regency piece set in 1806 I really felt like I was reading a hallmark Christmas story-and I mean that in the best ways. With all our problems in 2022 sometimes it’s nice to see all good things work out and just relax in the charm of s better season for a while.


In a Yuletide Match by Sarah Eden a widower seeks a wife for himself and a mother for his rambocouse three year old son. While there are technically three point of view characters, I rather thought the character of Mrs. Northrop the match maker was almost a back ground element than a direct character, which was a nice writing trick I may try to emulate at some point: she’s just present enough to create stress-tension!-and momentum for the situation. While some of the language seemed less engaging than Scott’s, Eden’s diologue shined bright making for witty banter that was just as delightful in its own way.

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson we have a story of Star crossed lovers that begins with a good amount of humor that is soon superseded by tension and family intrigue. One easily cheers for the love interests all story long and while the plot mostly works there are a few sections where the pacing of the story seems off, particularly towards the end. That all said it a story that pulls the reader along in a rush to see if things will end well.

Mistletoe at Willowsmead continues the mistletoe trend that seems almost like the writing prompt of this anthology. Note to publisher: there is an error here where the header is wrong, showing The Forbiddrn Duke rather than the correct story heading. As for the story itself, it is soft and sweet, adding in a governess love tale that hat was fairly direct and hardly ever in doubt yet still charming in its own way. A bit heavy on the info dumps and internal monologues, perhaps, yet one cannot help enjoying the earnest regard of both hero and heroine and the cute if perhaps stereotypical reactions with the children. It did feel a bit short and perhaps heavy handed, but let’s be honest, most of the novelette in this collection are that up to a point.

Follow the River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen puts us in a at once familiar situation of a young woman with an aged mother at risk of losing their home due to the property laws of the time apparently. Added to this story is a young daughter-like niece (whom is very cute-why are little kids in fiction so much cuter than in life? Idealized state I suppose?) and a war time back drop with injuries from war thrown upon our hero. And then we have our evil new property owner doing all sorts of villainous things, while pursuing our heroines hand. While the common elements and the ever present mistletoe easily match this work with the rest in this collection, I liked the spin and pathos of the main characters enough to make this one of the better novelette of this collection. Added to it all is some fine symbology with rivers and plenty to amuse.

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore does a nice job of flipping a lot of the regency tropes we see in these stories-here we have an inheriting cousin whom is not evil but nice and-lets be honest-a somewhat bitter, cynical heroine. Indeed, so bitter and cynical that I wondered for a bit if she would do the whole villian thing and if perhaps her young friend was the actual heroine. Regardless, it’s s fun story that was just different enough to keep me entertained, though they seemed to of forgotten the mistletoe for the ending-most scandalous!

In short, while hardly ground breaking, it’s a nice collection of Christmas regency stories . If your looking to read a Christmas romance tale set in the early 1800’s, I’d say this anthology is for you.

[Ballet in AK · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Yuletide Regency

Always Kiss at Christmas by Regina Scott
(3 1/2 stars)
The thing I love about these Timeless Romance Anthologies is finding new authors! I will definitely be looking for more books written by Ms. Scott!

Well-written and executed. It ended a tad abruptly and I felt like the mom’s health was a huge loose end left unresolved. Just because the doctor would now talk to Mary, didn’t mean that anything would get better with her mother’s situation. (I thought for sure it would end up that the evil cousin was having the mom poisoned...)

Obviously, I was invested in the narrative and didn’t want it to end- - always the sign of a good writer!

Yuletide Match by Sarah M. Eden (3 stars)

Adelaide Northrup, matchmaker extraordinaire, does it again in a delightful story of two people waking to their true feelings.

There’s a little boy, as well, and the only incongruity that really stood out was that he called the main female character by her first name. That wouldn’t have happened in those days.

Other than that, it’s true enough to its time period and is a charming novella!

The Forbidden Duke by Jen Geigle Johnson (3 stars)

A Romeo and Juliet-type romance. The ongoing feuding of their two families keeps the H and h from openly seeing one another. A history of nefarious dealings that are set right by the joining of the two in the end.

It’s nice to think that people in the regency would be kind to people with mental disabilities, but I doubt it was the case in that era. I mean, as late as the 1970’s people were still being cruel to mentally and physically disabled people. That said, I would love to find out that I am wrong...

A creative plot, though, and well-written! It certainly wasn’t your run-of-the-mill regency romance.

Mistletoe at Willowsmeade by Annette Lyon (3 stars)

Cute story and well-written. A new fact about mistletoe that I hadn’t known before, which added a fun element to the romance.

It was sweet and had some fun interactions amongst the three childhood friends. The romance was lovely, although I started to get a bit impatient with the inner monologues that had them second-guessing they others’ intentions. There’s some of that in every romance, of course...luckily, they had a good talk/kiss just before I was ready to throw the kindle across the room.

Follow The River Home by Krista Lynne Jensen (4 stars)

I loved this story! The only problem was that it ended!

I’ve read other stories by this author and highly recommend her! She did a wonderful job of balancing the self-doubt of the H with the insightful bluntness of the h. Their characters felt real and their relationship was a natural extension of having been children together.

The ending was a too fast and everything tied up a bit too neatly, but that’s the way of the novella. Ugh. I wanted more.

The New Earl by Heather B. Moore (4 stars)

I really enjoyed this story! As per usual, Ms. Moore delivers believable characters, solid plots and great romantic tension!

I loved that the h wasn’t convinced she was beautiful and that the H saw beauty in her both physically and as a complete person.

I loved that they had time to get to know each other but that there was urgency that spurred them on and made them notice things they might not have seen until much later in their relationship. I loved that we, as readers, got to see them learn traits about one another that they admired through the course of the novella.

A great story to top off a great collection!