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Knight Chronicles #3.5
Follow Your Star Home: A Bluestocking Belles Collection
Divided sweethearts seek love and forgiveness in this collection of seasonal novellas.
Forged for lovers...
The Viking star ring is said to bring lovers together, no matter how far, no matter how hard.
In eight stories covering more than a thousand years, our heroes and heroines put this legend to the test. Watch the star work its magic as prodigals return home in the season of goodwill, uncertain of their welcome.
Denmark 839
A Yule Love Story by Nicole Zoltack
Life and love are never simple when a banished king must turn to a simple healing woman to survive
Kopet Dag Mountains, 1794
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight
In discovering the mysteries of the East, James has built a new life. Will unveiling the secrets in his wife’s heart destroy it?
Scotland, 1807
Somewhere Like Home by Lizzi Tremayne
Highlands to Waterloo—can love prevail over fate?
London & Bath, 1814
The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie’s Story by Amy Quinton
Prodigal duke seeks professional matchmaker for matrimonial assistance. Prefers foolproof plans in 10 parts. Magical solutions accepted. Missteps likely.
Scotland, 1869
A Wish for All Seasons: A MacKai Family Novella by Rue Allyn
The past keeps Caibre and Aisla apart. Only Love and forgiveness can give them a future.
Wales and France, 1919
The Last Post by Caroline Warfield
The Great War is over, but how can they marry if he can’t find her?
San Francisco, 1922
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
All he needs is a fine chance.
Scotland, 1170 & USA, Present Day
One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time Novella by Sherry Ewing
Sometimes, it takes a miracle to find your heart’s desire...
Forged for lovers...
The Viking star ring is said to bring lovers together, no matter how far, no matter how hard.
In eight stories covering more than a thousand years, our heroes and heroines put this legend to the test. Watch the star work its magic as prodigals return home in the season of goodwill, uncertain of their welcome.
Denmark 839
A Yule Love Story by Nicole Zoltack
Life and love are never simple when a banished king must turn to a simple healing woman to survive
Kopet Dag Mountains, 1794
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight
In discovering the mysteries of the East, James has built a new life. Will unveiling the secrets in his wife’s heart destroy it?
Scotland, 1807
Somewhere Like Home by Lizzi Tremayne
Highlands to Waterloo—can love prevail over fate?
London & Bath, 1814
The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie’s Story by Amy Quinton
Prodigal duke seeks professional matchmaker for matrimonial assistance. Prefers foolproof plans in 10 parts. Magical solutions accepted. Missteps likely.
Scotland, 1869
A Wish for All Seasons: A MacKai Family Novella by Rue Allyn
The past keeps Caibre and Aisla apart. Only Love and forgiveness can give them a future.
Wales and France, 1919
The Last Post by Caroline Warfield
The Great War is over, but how can they marry if he can’t find her?
San Francisco, 1922
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
All he needs is a fine chance.
Scotland, 1170 & USA, Present Day
One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time Novella by Sherry Ewing
Sometimes, it takes a miracle to find your heart’s desire...
612 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2018
18 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Rue Allyn
54 books109 followersAward winning romance author, Rue Allyn has a life long passion for happy ever after. She lives south of the border with her husband of more than forty years and their cat, Tonto. She has two sons and is a proud veteran of the US Navy. She writes heart melting romance in all sub-genres, but her favorite is historical romance, especially medieval. Subscribe to Rue’s News where you may learn more about Rue and receive a FREE download. https://www.rueallyn.com/subscriber-e...
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March 10, 2020
A Golden Star🌠 Brings Love 💘Throughout Time⏳
This is a wonderfully written Anthology of various types of ADULT historical Romances💕 by various authors. There are stories about ancient Vikings from the 9th century, Persians and Turks from the 18th century with English explorers in their midst. Scotsmen involved in the war against Napoleon have their own story, too.
In the 19th century, The ring🌠 is won in a card game in an opium den by James🐺, the debauched Duke of Warkshire. He's a man who lost Anne💃💋, his best friend and love of his life eight years earlier to stupid jealousy. Yet he still considers Anne💃💋 his after all this time and years of opium addiction. When he🐺 slips on the ring🌠, he instantly wants to change his life, for her, for the Anne💃💋 he hasn't seen in eight years...
Through all the tales runs a common thread. It's an ancient Viking gold ring with the image of a star🌠 imprinted in it and it's passed along down through time⏳ from one person to the 💘love of their life. The stories all have a Yuletide theme as well.
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
This Ebook was $3.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
Many of these tales were extremely emotional for me, because of the subject matter and the true mastery of the written word by the writers. I highly recommend this volume to anyone who loves💕 love💘.
This is a wonderfully written Anthology of various types of ADULT historical Romances💕 by various authors. There are stories about ancient Vikings from the 9th century, Persians and Turks from the 18th century with English explorers in their midst. Scotsmen involved in the war against Napoleon have their own story, too.
In the 19th century, The ring🌠 is won in a card game in an opium den by James🐺, the debauched Duke of Warkshire. He's a man who lost Anne💃💋, his best friend and love of his life eight years earlier to stupid jealousy. Yet he still considers Anne💃💋 his after all this time and years of opium addiction. When he🐺 slips on the ring🌠, he instantly wants to change his life, for her, for the Anne💃💋 he hasn't seen in eight years...
Through all the tales runs a common thread. It's an ancient Viking gold ring with the image of a star🌠 imprinted in it and it's passed along down through time⏳ from one person to the 💘love of their life. The stories all have a Yuletide theme as well.
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
This Ebook was $3.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.
Many of these tales were extremely emotional for me, because of the subject matter and the true mastery of the written word by the writers. I highly recommend this volume to anyone who loves💕 love💘.
October 24, 2018
Follow Your Star Home
(A Bluestocking Belles Collection)
A Yule Love Story
By Nicole Zoltack
Kattegat 839
Sonja is totally alone with no family left and as she is out looking for food she stumbles upon fallen bodies littering her beach, she finds one survivor and heals him as her late Mother had been a healer.
What Sonja doesn't know is that surviving man is none other than Anoundus. He ruled Sweden along side his brother as kings at one time, but not anymore. She had heard awful tales of Anoundus and just the thought of him made her stomach churn, but she couldn't just leave a man there to die if she could help him.
What kind of life will he face here?
What role will Sonja play in his life? With the two find love this Yuletide?
Nicole Zoltack did a wonderful job with this story. The storyline was great and I really enjoyed the characters. Now I'll have to read part two because I want to know more.
Paradise Regained
By Jude Knight
1794: Pari-Daiza Vadi in the Kopet Dag Mountains northeast of Iran
James wants nothing more then to end a long journey in the arms of his loving family, but his father's agents offer him forgiveness and a place in society if and only if he will abandon his foreign born wife and children to return to England, but James doesn't want to go back even though his father demands it. He even sends a bevy of different people to talk to James into it.
Mahzad faces revolt, invasion, and betrayal in the mounting kingdom they built together while her husband is away although she will not allow their dream and their family to be destroyed. Mahzad has her own problems in her kingdom and as queen wants nothing more then her king to come home and meet their little girl who was born while he's been away.
Will James go back and reunite with Mahzad? Will they be able to get the danger away from their door and have a happy life?
As usual Jude Knight brings a fantastic tale of love with a story that flows wonderfully. I really enjoyed the background as it gave me the insight into who James and Mahzad really were as separate people and as a couple as well.
Somewhere like Home
Lizzi Tremayne
1807 Whitsun, Lairg Parish, Scotland
Robbie as a boy can not believe what he's seeing. So many people walk with crying babies, some limping, and others on carts piped high with all their worldly belongings. He asks his Father where everyone is going and he tells Robbie To the Coast because their laird wants the land for their sheep. Then they turn around and go home.
1814 Golburn, Sutherland, Scottish Highlands
Robert has refused to become clan tacksman after his father and is disowned for it.
Sofia's waiting turns to despair when her Mother buys safety during the clearance of their village at Sofia's expense, leaving her to the lusts of the laird's son. The Lairds son has abused her and tormented her beyond reason.
Robert has now emerged from the hell of Waterloo wanting nothing more then to see Sofia and and his father. He sees his Father and finds out some disturbing new about Sofia.
Will her go after Sofia? Will Sofia be able to face Rob after what she's been through and will Rob be able to accept Sofia?
This is the first story from Lizzi Tremayne that I have ever read and I must admit she did a great job and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Rob and Sofia's story touched my heart as the star crossed lovers that they were.
The Umbrella Chronicles
By Amy Quinton
James and Annie's Story
1805 Mobley, Sussex
You know Lord James Quill 8th Marquess of Mobley and heir to the Duchy of South Warkshire, first fell in love with his best friend, Miss Annie Merryweather, when her was ten. She had loved him too then until one day she didn't.
8 Years Later 1813 Constantinople
He constantly thought of her. Ofcourse he did. James Quill now the 7th Duke of South Warkshire, tried to shake off images of an imaginary idyllic life with Annie Merryweather. He sits in an opium den drinking and playing cards now while he thinks of her. He has won his hand. A hand that consists of general things. Then he finds a ring which he picks up and is surprised to find it warm almost hot. He slips it on his finger and is instantly slammed back in his seat by some unseen force. Later, he wouldn't recall walking out of that place, nor how he made it to his sleeping quarters. All he could explain was the sudden desire to return home.
And he does return home.
When he returns home he meets Harriet and she shows him her plan and tells him he must follow all of the steps to a tee if he wants to win Miss Merryweather.
Christmastide England 1814
His Grace, James Quill, will not be a bachelor-in-poor standing for very much longer. For I, Lady Harriett Ross. Yes it is I the same Lady Harriett Ross of the Infamous Umbrella, have decided to orchestrate his betrothal to his former best friend, Miss Annie Merryweather, weather either of them wishes it. You know me though they will wish it. Either way I'm surprised that His Grace has agreed to my proposed 10 step plan. Ofcourse Her soon to be Grace is determined to resist the notorious prodigal son.
Do you think they will find love and forgiveness this holiday season? I guess time will tell.
As always I truly enjoyed Amy Quinton's story from the Umbrealla Chronicles. The story had a great flow and I really came to like the main characters. I always love Lady Harritte and her stories as they warm the heart at Christmas time.
A Wish For All Seasons
By Rue Allyn
Dungarob Keep, Northwest Scottish Coast, December 1869
Calibre MacFearann doesn't want to return to Scotland in fact it's the last thing he wants to do, let alone being forced to stay there however the chance of rekindling his lost love of his youth is just a little too hard to resist.
Aisla Mackai got hurt so bad losing Caibre MacFearann's love that she wants absolutely nothing to do with him when during a blizzard he end up on her doorstep. Human charity and kindness demand that she give him shelter no matter how cruel he once was. The past keeps Caibre and Aisla apart. Only love and forgiveness can give them a future together.
Rue Allen did a fantastic job with this story. It held my intrest from start to finish and I really enjoyed it and hope to read more from Ms. Allen in the future.
The Last Post
By Caroline Warfield
1919
Harry is upset becuase he has a permission to marry form, but can't get leave to go marry Rosemarie and how on earth can he marry her if he can't find her. It had been over a year since Harry had seen Rosmarie his lover and months since he last had any word from her.
It was only the love for Rosemarie Legrand that gave Harry the will to go on during the horror of trench warfare. Now the war is finally over and he can't find her.
Rosemarie waits for word on her cousin's farm where she had to take refuge when war finally reached the outskirts of Amiens. He must have gotten her letters right? Or has he simply forgotten her after all this time?
Wow what a great story I remember this story from the last Belles Christmas book and it was so nice to revisit with Harry and Rosemarie. It was very heartwarming as I could almost feel these star crossed lovers love and how frantic they were searching for each other. The ending was so wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
A Fine Chance
By Elizabeth Ellen Carter
San Francisco 1922
Helen Watson has arranged for a job for an out of work soldier at her workplace, totally unaware that she's the miracle Robert Fairmont needs.
Robert has returned from the great war a new man with a new name. Having a job in his father's factory is the first step towards reconciliation.
Can Helen forgive him for hiding his true identity or will Robert end up losing his one true love and his father?
All he really needs is A Fine Chance.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter did an amazing job with this follow your star home story. I really enjoyed it and there's something so heartwarming about a prodigal son returning home to acceptance and then the love that's found.
One Last Kiss
By Sherry Ewing
The knights of Berwyk A Quest Through Time
Sometimes it takes a miracle to find your heart' desire
Scotland, 1182:
Banished from his homeland, Tomas of Clan Kincaid lives among distant relatives, reluctantly accepting he may never return home....until the castle's healer tells him of a woman who is traveling across time...
Dare he believe the impossible?
Present Day Michigan:
Jade Calloway is always alone and used to it, and as Christmas approaches, she's rather skeptical when she's told she'll embark on an extraordinary journey by her friend Zoe. Then a ring magically appeared she sees a ghostly man in her dreams....
Dare she believe in the possible?
Sherry Ewing did it again. I ended this lovely story with tears in my eyes. Wonderful happy tears. This story was quite Brilliant. I felt like I was sent back in time with Jade and watched the story play out.
As a whole this was another wonderful Christmas edition from the Belles. They are all such incredibly talented author's and I enjoyed every story immensely.
(A Bluestocking Belles Collection)
A Yule Love Story
By Nicole Zoltack
Kattegat 839
Sonja is totally alone with no family left and as she is out looking for food she stumbles upon fallen bodies littering her beach, she finds one survivor and heals him as her late Mother had been a healer.
What Sonja doesn't know is that surviving man is none other than Anoundus. He ruled Sweden along side his brother as kings at one time, but not anymore. She had heard awful tales of Anoundus and just the thought of him made her stomach churn, but she couldn't just leave a man there to die if she could help him.
What kind of life will he face here?
What role will Sonja play in his life? With the two find love this Yuletide?
Nicole Zoltack did a wonderful job with this story. The storyline was great and I really enjoyed the characters. Now I'll have to read part two because I want to know more.
Paradise Regained
By Jude Knight
1794: Pari-Daiza Vadi in the Kopet Dag Mountains northeast of Iran
James wants nothing more then to end a long journey in the arms of his loving family, but his father's agents offer him forgiveness and a place in society if and only if he will abandon his foreign born wife and children to return to England, but James doesn't want to go back even though his father demands it. He even sends a bevy of different people to talk to James into it.
Mahzad faces revolt, invasion, and betrayal in the mounting kingdom they built together while her husband is away although she will not allow their dream and their family to be destroyed. Mahzad has her own problems in her kingdom and as queen wants nothing more then her king to come home and meet their little girl who was born while he's been away.
Will James go back and reunite with Mahzad? Will they be able to get the danger away from their door and have a happy life?
As usual Jude Knight brings a fantastic tale of love with a story that flows wonderfully. I really enjoyed the background as it gave me the insight into who James and Mahzad really were as separate people and as a couple as well.
Somewhere like Home
Lizzi Tremayne
1807 Whitsun, Lairg Parish, Scotland
Robbie as a boy can not believe what he's seeing. So many people walk with crying babies, some limping, and others on carts piped high with all their worldly belongings. He asks his Father where everyone is going and he tells Robbie To the Coast because their laird wants the land for their sheep. Then they turn around and go home.
1814 Golburn, Sutherland, Scottish Highlands
Robert has refused to become clan tacksman after his father and is disowned for it.
Sofia's waiting turns to despair when her Mother buys safety during the clearance of their village at Sofia's expense, leaving her to the lusts of the laird's son. The Lairds son has abused her and tormented her beyond reason.
Robert has now emerged from the hell of Waterloo wanting nothing more then to see Sofia and and his father. He sees his Father and finds out some disturbing new about Sofia.
Will her go after Sofia? Will Sofia be able to face Rob after what she's been through and will Rob be able to accept Sofia?
This is the first story from Lizzi Tremayne that I have ever read and I must admit she did a great job and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Rob and Sofia's story touched my heart as the star crossed lovers that they were.
The Umbrella Chronicles
By Amy Quinton
James and Annie's Story
1805 Mobley, Sussex
You know Lord James Quill 8th Marquess of Mobley and heir to the Duchy of South Warkshire, first fell in love with his best friend, Miss Annie Merryweather, when her was ten. She had loved him too then until one day she didn't.
8 Years Later 1813 Constantinople
He constantly thought of her. Ofcourse he did. James Quill now the 7th Duke of South Warkshire, tried to shake off images of an imaginary idyllic life with Annie Merryweather. He sits in an opium den drinking and playing cards now while he thinks of her. He has won his hand. A hand that consists of general things. Then he finds a ring which he picks up and is surprised to find it warm almost hot. He slips it on his finger and is instantly slammed back in his seat by some unseen force. Later, he wouldn't recall walking out of that place, nor how he made it to his sleeping quarters. All he could explain was the sudden desire to return home.
And he does return home.
When he returns home he meets Harriet and she shows him her plan and tells him he must follow all of the steps to a tee if he wants to win Miss Merryweather.
Christmastide England 1814
His Grace, James Quill, will not be a bachelor-in-poor standing for very much longer. For I, Lady Harriett Ross. Yes it is I the same Lady Harriett Ross of the Infamous Umbrella, have decided to orchestrate his betrothal to his former best friend, Miss Annie Merryweather, weather either of them wishes it. You know me though they will wish it. Either way I'm surprised that His Grace has agreed to my proposed 10 step plan. Ofcourse Her soon to be Grace is determined to resist the notorious prodigal son.
Do you think they will find love and forgiveness this holiday season? I guess time will tell.
As always I truly enjoyed Amy Quinton's story from the Umbrealla Chronicles. The story had a great flow and I really came to like the main characters. I always love Lady Harritte and her stories as they warm the heart at Christmas time.
A Wish For All Seasons
By Rue Allyn
Dungarob Keep, Northwest Scottish Coast, December 1869
Calibre MacFearann doesn't want to return to Scotland in fact it's the last thing he wants to do, let alone being forced to stay there however the chance of rekindling his lost love of his youth is just a little too hard to resist.
Aisla Mackai got hurt so bad losing Caibre MacFearann's love that she wants absolutely nothing to do with him when during a blizzard he end up on her doorstep. Human charity and kindness demand that she give him shelter no matter how cruel he once was. The past keeps Caibre and Aisla apart. Only love and forgiveness can give them a future together.
Rue Allen did a fantastic job with this story. It held my intrest from start to finish and I really enjoyed it and hope to read more from Ms. Allen in the future.
The Last Post
By Caroline Warfield
1919
Harry is upset becuase he has a permission to marry form, but can't get leave to go marry Rosemarie and how on earth can he marry her if he can't find her. It had been over a year since Harry had seen Rosmarie his lover and months since he last had any word from her.
It was only the love for Rosemarie Legrand that gave Harry the will to go on during the horror of trench warfare. Now the war is finally over and he can't find her.
Rosemarie waits for word on her cousin's farm where she had to take refuge when war finally reached the outskirts of Amiens. He must have gotten her letters right? Or has he simply forgotten her after all this time?
Wow what a great story I remember this story from the last Belles Christmas book and it was so nice to revisit with Harry and Rosemarie. It was very heartwarming as I could almost feel these star crossed lovers love and how frantic they were searching for each other. The ending was so wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
A Fine Chance
By Elizabeth Ellen Carter
San Francisco 1922
Helen Watson has arranged for a job for an out of work soldier at her workplace, totally unaware that she's the miracle Robert Fairmont needs.
Robert has returned from the great war a new man with a new name. Having a job in his father's factory is the first step towards reconciliation.
Can Helen forgive him for hiding his true identity or will Robert end up losing his one true love and his father?
All he really needs is A Fine Chance.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter did an amazing job with this follow your star home story. I really enjoyed it and there's something so heartwarming about a prodigal son returning home to acceptance and then the love that's found.
One Last Kiss
By Sherry Ewing
The knights of Berwyk A Quest Through Time
Sometimes it takes a miracle to find your heart' desire
Scotland, 1182:
Banished from his homeland, Tomas of Clan Kincaid lives among distant relatives, reluctantly accepting he may never return home....until the castle's healer tells him of a woman who is traveling across time...
Dare he believe the impossible?
Present Day Michigan:
Jade Calloway is always alone and used to it, and as Christmas approaches, she's rather skeptical when she's told she'll embark on an extraordinary journey by her friend Zoe. Then a ring magically appeared she sees a ghostly man in her dreams....
Dare she believe in the possible?
Sherry Ewing did it again. I ended this lovely story with tears in my eyes. Wonderful happy tears. This story was quite Brilliant. I felt like I was sent back in time with Jade and watched the story play out.
As a whole this was another wonderful Christmas edition from the Belles. They are all such incredibly talented author's and I enjoyed every story immensely.
November 5, 2018
An Amazing Collection by authors also know as the Bluestocking Belles, who create stories that will warm your heart. I truly love each of them individually but in these seasonal novellas, a mystery is created around a Viking star ring that made it way through the centuries and touched each story. Intrigued?
One Last Kiss by Sherry Ewing
Scotland 1170 and USA present day.
Two people separated by centuries find their destiny through the magic of the ring. Tomas of Clan Kincaid has lived with distant relatives since his father disowned when he was given a ring by by him that he lost. Even then he had a vision of a girl named Jade who seemed to have a connection with him.
In present day USA, Jade Calloway is always alone except for her friend Zoe who predicts she will go on a journey as Christmas approaches. Then a ring with a star appears and as she puts in own, she starts to have visions as before and she sees Robert who seems to be calling her to come to him.
Can this really be happening? Can she finally be with the man of her dreams and find love?
Sherry Ewing always grabs my heart in her stories and does not let go until the end. I am drawn in by her characters and surroundings as she writes her marvelous prose. Loved it!
Nicole Zoltack
A Yule Love Story
Kattegut 839 As Sonja goes to the beach to wash her feet she comes upon a battle taking place with the two factions killing each other. All lay dead at the end, but she sees a movement and there is one Viking still alive. Her only option is to help, because she is a healer, just like her mother. That moment changed both of their lives forever!
What she does not realize is who he is, Anoundus, a former king of Sweden he shared with his brother. But he tells her he is Magni. I loved these two characters. They were brought alive with the descriptions by the author and I could visualize the surroundings. They seemed meant for each other with Sonya alone since her brother died and Anoundus having his own problems away from his home. Could these two from different lives grow to find love? Will Anoundus be able to not go back to his homeland and stay with Sonja?
At the end the he brought out his coin purse and held up a simple golden ring with a multi star on it his mother had given him years ago. Worn on her wedding day she passed it to him so he could find true love. But what power did the ring have?
Even though this is a novella, he really contained a great story and I look forward to reading more about these two!!
Rue Allyn
A Wish for all Seasons
A youthful love that never had a chance. Calibre left Scotland years ago and the girl he cared about, Aisla. But in a twist of fate Calibre finds himself frozen in a blizzard and Alisa is there to save and give him shelter. Ailsa still wears the ring around her neck that he gave her all those years ago. She gives it back to him and as he wears it, all the feelings between them come back. A story of love redeemed and a fated love. Wonderful
Jude Knight
Paradise regained
A love thought lost is regained in this wonderful story set in 1794 northeast or Iran. James has built a life with his wife Mahzad and they are rulers of their small kingdom. Now, having been together through eight children and over a decade, each feels the other does not love them anymore. Of course they might ask each other, but maybe afraid of the answer. But there seems to be a lot in their path to keep them apart and trying to regain that feeling. A well written story that brings the characters to life and the surroundings alive. Truly enjoyed this novella.
Lizzie Tremayne
Somewhere Like Home
Lairg Parish, Scotland Rob Gunn wants Sofia for his wife but her father refuses his request. If that were not bad enough, when he refuses to become a tacksman like his father, he is disowned and leaves to make his way but determined to return for Sofia. There are many so many trials to overcome. Take the journey to see how the two can ever be together and the emotions they go through to get there.
Amy Quinton
The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie's Story
When I read the title to this story, I knew I was in for a good story that would have me smiling. James Quill finally returns home after being gone over a decade. Winning a ring in a card game, he wants to go home and see if he can win Anne as his bride. But as you know, the matchmaking maven Lady Harriett Ross gets involved when James asks for her help. The plan was a good one for winning Annie over if her could just follow all the steps! A really fun story.
Caroline Warfield
The Last Post
A continuation of Caroline's story in last year's Never too Late anthology, we find Harry trying to find Rosemarie so they can marry. It had been a long time since he had seen her due to the war and many months since he had heard from her. Rosemarie was his everything that gave him strength to endure the horrors he saw in warfare. Unbeknownst to him, she was at her cousins farm waiting to hear from him. A heartwarming story that brings true love together when it needed to be found.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
A Fine Chance
San Francisco 1922.
Helen Watson works at a factory and helps a soldier returning from the war gain employment with her workplace. Robert Fairmont has returned with a new name and wants the job at his father's factor to help him possibly reconcile with him. He sees Helen as his miracle to his future, but he does not tell her his real name. Can she overcome his deception and can they find their happy ending? A wonderful story of hope and the chance to be happy.
One Last Kiss by Sherry Ewing
Scotland 1170 and USA present day.
Two people separated by centuries find their destiny through the magic of the ring. Tomas of Clan Kincaid has lived with distant relatives since his father disowned when he was given a ring by by him that he lost. Even then he had a vision of a girl named Jade who seemed to have a connection with him.
In present day USA, Jade Calloway is always alone except for her friend Zoe who predicts she will go on a journey as Christmas approaches. Then a ring with a star appears and as she puts in own, she starts to have visions as before and she sees Robert who seems to be calling her to come to him.
Can this really be happening? Can she finally be with the man of her dreams and find love?
Sherry Ewing always grabs my heart in her stories and does not let go until the end. I am drawn in by her characters and surroundings as she writes her marvelous prose. Loved it!
Nicole Zoltack
A Yule Love Story
Kattegut 839 As Sonja goes to the beach to wash her feet she comes upon a battle taking place with the two factions killing each other. All lay dead at the end, but she sees a movement and there is one Viking still alive. Her only option is to help, because she is a healer, just like her mother. That moment changed both of their lives forever!
What she does not realize is who he is, Anoundus, a former king of Sweden he shared with his brother. But he tells her he is Magni. I loved these two characters. They were brought alive with the descriptions by the author and I could visualize the surroundings. They seemed meant for each other with Sonya alone since her brother died and Anoundus having his own problems away from his home. Could these two from different lives grow to find love? Will Anoundus be able to not go back to his homeland and stay with Sonja?
At the end the he brought out his coin purse and held up a simple golden ring with a multi star on it his mother had given him years ago. Worn on her wedding day she passed it to him so he could find true love. But what power did the ring have?
Even though this is a novella, he really contained a great story and I look forward to reading more about these two!!
Rue Allyn
A Wish for all Seasons
A youthful love that never had a chance. Calibre left Scotland years ago and the girl he cared about, Aisla. But in a twist of fate Calibre finds himself frozen in a blizzard and Alisa is there to save and give him shelter. Ailsa still wears the ring around her neck that he gave her all those years ago. She gives it back to him and as he wears it, all the feelings between them come back. A story of love redeemed and a fated love. Wonderful
Jude Knight
Paradise regained
A love thought lost is regained in this wonderful story set in 1794 northeast or Iran. James has built a life with his wife Mahzad and they are rulers of their small kingdom. Now, having been together through eight children and over a decade, each feels the other does not love them anymore. Of course they might ask each other, but maybe afraid of the answer. But there seems to be a lot in their path to keep them apart and trying to regain that feeling. A well written story that brings the characters to life and the surroundings alive. Truly enjoyed this novella.
Lizzie Tremayne
Somewhere Like Home
Lairg Parish, Scotland Rob Gunn wants Sofia for his wife but her father refuses his request. If that were not bad enough, when he refuses to become a tacksman like his father, he is disowned and leaves to make his way but determined to return for Sofia. There are many so many trials to overcome. Take the journey to see how the two can ever be together and the emotions they go through to get there.
Amy Quinton
The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie's Story
When I read the title to this story, I knew I was in for a good story that would have me smiling. James Quill finally returns home after being gone over a decade. Winning a ring in a card game, he wants to go home and see if he can win Anne as his bride. But as you know, the matchmaking maven Lady Harriett Ross gets involved when James asks for her help. The plan was a good one for winning Annie over if her could just follow all the steps! A really fun story.
Caroline Warfield
The Last Post
A continuation of Caroline's story in last year's Never too Late anthology, we find Harry trying to find Rosemarie so they can marry. It had been a long time since he had seen her due to the war and many months since he had heard from her. Rosemarie was his everything that gave him strength to endure the horrors he saw in warfare. Unbeknownst to him, she was at her cousins farm waiting to hear from him. A heartwarming story that brings true love together when it needed to be found.
Elizabeth Ellen Carter
A Fine Chance
San Francisco 1922.
Helen Watson works at a factory and helps a soldier returning from the war gain employment with her workplace. Robert Fairmont has returned with a new name and wants the job at his father's factor to help him possibly reconcile with him. He sees Helen as his miracle to his future, but he does not tell her his real name. Can she overcome his deception and can they find their happy ending? A wonderful story of hope and the chance to be happy.
November 4, 2018
This is an engaging collection of novellas written by the authors collectively known by their fans as The Bluestocking Belles. Each author's unique style shines in her character-driven installment following the path taken by a simple signet ring imbued with the "power" to unite or reunite the wearer with his or her true love.
I enjoyed the variety of historic eras and places in which the stories were set. Some were time periods not often used as the backdrop for romance. The political and social climate of the settings were brought to life in narrative that moved each plot forward, providing well-defined worlds for each story's casts of characters to brave opposition, and in some cases great danger, to find their way to a satisfying conclusion.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the authors and I offer my honest opinion in response.
I enjoyed the variety of historic eras and places in which the stories were set. Some were time periods not often used as the backdrop for romance. The political and social climate of the settings were brought to life in narrative that moved each plot forward, providing well-defined worlds for each story's casts of characters to brave opposition, and in some cases great danger, to find their way to a satisfying conclusion.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the authors and I offer my honest opinion in response.
October 28, 2018
Enchanting is only one of many magnificent words to describe this anthology,
Each year since I've known them the lovely Belles have produced a beautiful anthology between them at Christmas and each new one becones my favourite of theirs to date.
This anthology we have some new Belles joining us and every story is brilliant, pulls you right in, the magic of Christmas time, love and a little more te magic, along with Friends old and new, joy, some tears, some deviousness, some foes all coming together to make this magnificent anthology even more magical.
It's been an honour and privilege to read thank you all dear ladies for coming together to write them.
Each year since I've known them the lovely Belles have produced a beautiful anthology between them at Christmas and each new one becones my favourite of theirs to date.
This anthology we have some new Belles joining us and every story is brilliant, pulls you right in, the magic of Christmas time, love and a little more te magic, along with Friends old and new, joy, some tears, some deviousness, some foes all coming together to make this magnificent anthology even more magical.
It's been an honour and privilege to read thank you all dear ladies for coming together to write them.
November 4, 2018
A Yule Love Story by Nicole Zoltack
Kattegat, Denmark 839
Sonja is alone & whilst out looking for food stumbles across bodies on the beach. There is a lone survivor who she tends to & heals – her mother had been a healer. The survivor is Anoundus a banished king of Sweden. They spend time on a beached longship whilst Magni (Anoundus) heals.
An engaging read of two people finding themselves & learning what is important. I now need to fin out what happens in the second part of the story!
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight
Kopet Dag Mountains northeast of Iran, 1794
In discovering the mysteries of the East, James has built a new life he’s married to Mahzad & they rule their small kingdom together but after over a decade together and eight children, they each think the other isn’t in love any more. There are obstacles in their way, interfering fathers, a threatened invasion.
A lovely novella which I read in a sitting, James & Mazhad both desperate to be together but circumstances keeping them apart. As always great characters & a well written well paced story & I hope there could be another Redepenning novel to come?
Somewhere Like Home by Lizzi Tremayne
Lairg Parish, Scotland,
Rob Gunn sees people leaving as the laird wants the land for his sheep. Seven years later Rob asks Sofia Gray’s father for her hand but is refused. When Robbie reuses to become tacksman after his father he is disowned & leaves promising to return for Sofia. Things aren’t easy for Robbie & Sofia & they have many trials to overcome.
An emotional read that really made me feel for Robbie & especially for Sofia. I again read this in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down. I would have liked an epilogue which dealt with Sofia’s mother & how they fared.
The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie’s Story by Amy Quinton
London & Bath, 1814
James Quill Duke of South Warkshire returns after a decade away. He wins a ring in a card game in an opium den & realises he needs to go home & hopefully win Anne Merryweather. He seeks professional matchmaker for matrimonial assistance.
A feel good story that had me chuckling at times the foolproof plan was meant to be followed step by step! I loved Jamie & Annie, again another novella I read in one sitting
A Wish for All Seasons:A MacKai Family Novella by Rue Allyn
Scotland, 1869
Caibre didn’t want to return to Scotland afterall he's made a life for himself in America & has been successful. Aisla has been holding everything together since her brother Steafan was presumed dead. When two men end up on the doorstep Aisla’s life is changed.
A lovely story of love & forgiveness, great characters, well written had me enthralled from start to finish.
The Last Post by Caroline Warfield
Wales and France, 1919
The Great War is over, but how can they marry if he can’t find her? It was lovely to continue Harry & Rosemarie’s story which started in last year’s anthology. I just loved this story, the star in the set for me
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
San Francisco, 1922
All he needs is a fine chance Robert Fairmont has returned from the Great War with a new name, given a job at his father’s factory by Helen Watson all he wants is a chance to make amends.
Another captivating read which I read in a sitting
One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time Novella by Sherry Ewing
Scotland & USA
Sometimes it takes a miracle to find your heart’s desire. Scotland 1164 Tomas is banished for losing the star ring & now serves at Berwyck Castle. Present day Michigan Jade Calloway is alone then she's told by her friend Zoe that she'll go on a journey, a ring appears as she sits on the sand in San Francisco & she dreams of a man.
Another brilliant story, I really felt I was with them.
Each year the Belles produce an amazing anthology & this years is brilliant the mix of stories, eras genres all mesh together to form a lovely set of novellas & of course there’s the star which has the characters needing to go home.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Kattegat, Denmark 839
Sonja is alone & whilst out looking for food stumbles across bodies on the beach. There is a lone survivor who she tends to & heals – her mother had been a healer. The survivor is Anoundus a banished king of Sweden. They spend time on a beached longship whilst Magni (Anoundus) heals.
An engaging read of two people finding themselves & learning what is important. I now need to fin out what happens in the second part of the story!
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight
Kopet Dag Mountains northeast of Iran, 1794
In discovering the mysteries of the East, James has built a new life he’s married to Mahzad & they rule their small kingdom together but after over a decade together and eight children, they each think the other isn’t in love any more. There are obstacles in their way, interfering fathers, a threatened invasion.
A lovely novella which I read in a sitting, James & Mazhad both desperate to be together but circumstances keeping them apart. As always great characters & a well written well paced story & I hope there could be another Redepenning novel to come?
Somewhere Like Home by Lizzi Tremayne
Lairg Parish, Scotland,
Rob Gunn sees people leaving as the laird wants the land for his sheep. Seven years later Rob asks Sofia Gray’s father for her hand but is refused. When Robbie reuses to become tacksman after his father he is disowned & leaves promising to return for Sofia. Things aren’t easy for Robbie & Sofia & they have many trials to overcome.
An emotional read that really made me feel for Robbie & especially for Sofia. I again read this in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down. I would have liked an epilogue which dealt with Sofia’s mother & how they fared.
The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie’s Story by Amy Quinton
London & Bath, 1814
James Quill Duke of South Warkshire returns after a decade away. He wins a ring in a card game in an opium den & realises he needs to go home & hopefully win Anne Merryweather. He seeks professional matchmaker for matrimonial assistance.
A feel good story that had me chuckling at times the foolproof plan was meant to be followed step by step! I loved Jamie & Annie, again another novella I read in one sitting
A Wish for All Seasons:A MacKai Family Novella by Rue Allyn
Scotland, 1869
Caibre didn’t want to return to Scotland afterall he's made a life for himself in America & has been successful. Aisla has been holding everything together since her brother Steafan was presumed dead. When two men end up on the doorstep Aisla’s life is changed.
A lovely story of love & forgiveness, great characters, well written had me enthralled from start to finish.
The Last Post by Caroline Warfield
Wales and France, 1919
The Great War is over, but how can they marry if he can’t find her? It was lovely to continue Harry & Rosemarie’s story which started in last year’s anthology. I just loved this story, the star in the set for me
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
San Francisco, 1922
All he needs is a fine chance Robert Fairmont has returned from the Great War with a new name, given a job at his father’s factory by Helen Watson all he wants is a chance to make amends.
Another captivating read which I read in a sitting
One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time Novella by Sherry Ewing
Scotland & USA
Sometimes it takes a miracle to find your heart’s desire. Scotland 1164 Tomas is banished for losing the star ring & now serves at Berwyck Castle. Present day Michigan Jade Calloway is alone then she's told by her friend Zoe that she'll go on a journey, a ring appears as she sits on the sand in San Francisco & she dreams of a man.
Another brilliant story, I really felt I was with them.
Each year the Belles produce an amazing anthology & this years is brilliant the mix of stories, eras genres all mesh together to form a lovely set of novellas & of course there’s the star which has the characters needing to go home.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 4, 2020
This collection combines eight historical novellas. It has a little bit of several genres with more or less successful storytelling. There is also a line that connects all the stories, namely a ring with a star although the last tales use it more successfully than the first ones.
The first novella is the story of an outcast in the IX century by Nicole Zoltack. Raiders appear and after a battle, the heroine helps the only survivor to dispose of the dead and a bound is created. A small and effective story but without much innovation.
The second one, by Jude Knight, is one of my favorites from this ensemble. A valley in the middle east, occupied by a couple formed by an English duke's son and a local princess has become a heaven for a group of people from different nationalities. The English man's family is anxious to have him back, but his home is in the valley. Beautiful, very well crafted, a delightful novella.
Somewhere like home is a story by Lizzi Tremayne set mainly in the Highlands and I found it very disturbing and the characters rather unlikable. Robert and Sofia are betrothed but he decides to find work and save money leaving her at the mercy of a cruel laird and his son.
Amy Quinton's novella is part of the Umbrella Chronicles and it is one of the best ones. Divided into chapters detailing the conquest process that the hero must follow to win his heroine, it's funny and inventive and I am definitely reading the other Umbrella stories.
Rue Allyn's A Wish for All Seasons is a conventional second chance story again set in Scotland without much spark.
The Last Post from Caroline Warfield is set at the end of WWI and follows a couple of separated lovers, a Canadian soldier, and a french window. Their travels and adventures to find each other are exciting and make you root for them. A great story from a thoughtful author.
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter is a romantic story set in San Francisco after WWI. A soldier returns but can't decide to return to his family until Helen appears. A gentle working girl, she gets him a job and helps him regain his confidence in himself. A good story although I believe the villain was a bit too one-dimensional.
Finally a time-traveling story. It was efficient but rather flat. I enjoy this kind of story but it was so conventional and with none of the typical conflict of this kind of tale. The heroine accepts too easily a life in medieval times with no indecision or different time-related problems.
All in all, it was a good read but some of the stories are definitely better than others.
The first novella is the story of an outcast in the IX century by Nicole Zoltack. Raiders appear and after a battle, the heroine helps the only survivor to dispose of the dead and a bound is created. A small and effective story but without much innovation.
The second one, by Jude Knight, is one of my favorites from this ensemble. A valley in the middle east, occupied by a couple formed by an English duke's son and a local princess has become a heaven for a group of people from different nationalities. The English man's family is anxious to have him back, but his home is in the valley. Beautiful, very well crafted, a delightful novella.
Somewhere like home is a story by Lizzi Tremayne set mainly in the Highlands and I found it very disturbing and the characters rather unlikable. Robert and Sofia are betrothed but he decides to find work and save money leaving her at the mercy of a cruel laird and his son.
Amy Quinton's novella is part of the Umbrella Chronicles and it is one of the best ones. Divided into chapters detailing the conquest process that the hero must follow to win his heroine, it's funny and inventive and I am definitely reading the other Umbrella stories.
Rue Allyn's A Wish for All Seasons is a conventional second chance story again set in Scotland without much spark.
The Last Post from Caroline Warfield is set at the end of WWI and follows a couple of separated lovers, a Canadian soldier, and a french window. Their travels and adventures to find each other are exciting and make you root for them. A great story from a thoughtful author.
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter is a romantic story set in San Francisco after WWI. A soldier returns but can't decide to return to his family until Helen appears. A gentle working girl, she gets him a job and helps him regain his confidence in himself. A good story although I believe the villain was a bit too one-dimensional.
Finally a time-traveling story. It was efficient but rather flat. I enjoy this kind of story but it was so conventional and with none of the typical conflict of this kind of tale. The heroine accepts too easily a life in medieval times with no indecision or different time-related problems.
All in all, it was a good read but some of the stories are definitely better than others.
March 14, 2020
Over centuries, a magical ring brings couples together in true love.
From a deposed king who has been raiding villages, gets in a skirmish and all of his men are killed but him. A local healer saves him and over the next year he lives like a normal person, working for a wage, and falls in love with the woman who saved him. But can he truly turn over a new leaf and leave raiding and violence behind?
An Englishman was betrayed by his father, sent to the middle east, captured, saved by a middle eastern woman and married her daughter. Years later he has a chance to return to England, but to do so he would have to leave his wife and children. Is his love for her strong enough to say no to his old old life and stay in the east with her?
The third story was so sad. A young man loves a woman and she returns his feelings but her mom has other ideas, and tells the young man he isn’t good enough for her daughter. He leaves to make his fortune and his beloved promises to wait for him but neither are aware that her mother sold her to the laird and his son. What follows is several years of misery and abuse for her at the hands of the laird’s son, before the young man rescues her.
A Duke who has loved his best friend and neighbor Annie, makes a mistake and becomes enamored of the pretty new young woman, loses his best friend and over the next ten years lives a sorry life, of addiction, women, and almost dies several times. And then something makes him decide to turn his life around. But is Annie still available and will she forgive him?
Scottish sweethearts separated when the man thinks he’s not good enough and goes to America to seek his fortune. When he comes back for a short visit, he has a mission to right the wrong his father did and a second chance to get the woman he loves.
Sweethearts who met during World War I have to find each other after the war. But with Europe destroyed and a shortage of food and shelter, the American leiutenant with have a tough time finds his true love.
A young man coming home from the war, is afraid to go home to his family. Instead he lives at the YMCA and does a menial job. But when a young woman befriends him and gets him a job, she doesn’t know that has just gotten him a job at his family’s factory. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
From a deposed king who has been raiding villages, gets in a skirmish and all of his men are killed but him. A local healer saves him and over the next year he lives like a normal person, working for a wage, and falls in love with the woman who saved him. But can he truly turn over a new leaf and leave raiding and violence behind?
An Englishman was betrayed by his father, sent to the middle east, captured, saved by a middle eastern woman and married her daughter. Years later he has a chance to return to England, but to do so he would have to leave his wife and children. Is his love for her strong enough to say no to his old old life and stay in the east with her?
The third story was so sad. A young man loves a woman and she returns his feelings but her mom has other ideas, and tells the young man he isn’t good enough for her daughter. He leaves to make his fortune and his beloved promises to wait for him but neither are aware that her mother sold her to the laird and his son. What follows is several years of misery and abuse for her at the hands of the laird’s son, before the young man rescues her.
A Duke who has loved his best friend and neighbor Annie, makes a mistake and becomes enamored of the pretty new young woman, loses his best friend and over the next ten years lives a sorry life, of addiction, women, and almost dies several times. And then something makes him decide to turn his life around. But is Annie still available and will she forgive him?
Scottish sweethearts separated when the man thinks he’s not good enough and goes to America to seek his fortune. When he comes back for a short visit, he has a mission to right the wrong his father did and a second chance to get the woman he loves.
Sweethearts who met during World War I have to find each other after the war. But with Europe destroyed and a shortage of food and shelter, the American leiutenant with have a tough time finds his true love.
A young man coming home from the war, is afraid to go home to his family. Instead he lives at the YMCA and does a menial job. But when a young woman befriends him and gets him a job, she doesn’t know that has just gotten him a job at his family’s factory. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
March 14, 2020
These five Romances span the ages from 839 to modern-day and suitability from family-friendly to Young Adult.
A Yule Love Story by Nicole Zoltack: Allow a full day for this YA tale set in Kattegat, Denmark in 839, when Sonja Eld, the orphaned healer, discovers a stranger on the beach in the depths of winter. This is Part One of a two-part story. 5*
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight: This well-written, family-friendly tale of Europeans in the Middle-East in the late eighteenth-century takes only a couple hours. I look forward to reading more by this author. 5*
Somewhere Like Home by Liza Tremayne: This PG13 tale of the Scottish Clearances in the early 1800s takes about a day to read. 5*
The Umbrella Chronicles: James & Annie's Story by Amy Quinton: This PG15 yarn courtesy of Lady Harriet Ross, an old woman with opinions on everything and Wielder of the Infamous Umbrella, takes place around Christmas 1814 and can be read in a long afternoon. 5*
A Wish For All Seasons by Rue Allyn: Set at Dungarob Harbor, Northwest Scottish Coast in December 1869, this PG15 second chance romance takes about two hours to read. 5*
The Last Post by Caroline Warfield: Set during and just after WWI, this PG13 tale of separated lovers is another two-hour read. 5*
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter: Set in San Francisco in 1922, this family-friendly Cinderfella about a returning soldier can be read in a morning. 5*
One Last Kiss by Sherry Ewing: Spend a pleasant couple of hours with this family-friendly tale in which orphaned Jade travels time from present-day USA back to Scotland in 1182. %*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Yule Love Story by Nicole Zoltack: Allow a full day for this YA tale set in Kattegat, Denmark in 839, when Sonja Eld, the orphaned healer, discovers a stranger on the beach in the depths of winter. This is Part One of a two-part story. 5*
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight: This well-written, family-friendly tale of Europeans in the Middle-East in the late eighteenth-century takes only a couple hours. I look forward to reading more by this author. 5*
Somewhere Like Home by Liza Tremayne: This PG13 tale of the Scottish Clearances in the early 1800s takes about a day to read. 5*
The Umbrella Chronicles: James & Annie's Story by Amy Quinton: This PG15 yarn courtesy of Lady Harriet Ross, an old woman with opinions on everything and Wielder of the Infamous Umbrella, takes place around Christmas 1814 and can be read in a long afternoon. 5*
A Wish For All Seasons by Rue Allyn: Set at Dungarob Harbor, Northwest Scottish Coast in December 1869, this PG15 second chance romance takes about two hours to read. 5*
The Last Post by Caroline Warfield: Set during and just after WWI, this PG13 tale of separated lovers is another two-hour read. 5*
A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter: Set in San Francisco in 1922, this family-friendly Cinderfella about a returning soldier can be read in a morning. 5*
One Last Kiss by Sherry Ewing: Spend a pleasant couple of hours with this family-friendly tale in which orphaned Jade travels time from present-day USA back to Scotland in 1182. %*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 13, 2018
As a taster of several authors' styles, this is a mixture and an interesting read. My favourite is Elizabeth Ellen Carter's 1920s story of a young man home from WW1, wiser and mature, and determined to prove to his father that he is not the same brash man who stormed out of home several years earlier.
The Viking story was interesting in setting, but I was disappointed when I got to the end, only to discover it wasn't the full story. If you want to know how the revelation of the main character's true identity pans out, you have to buy that author's full book. I prefer short stories that wrap up the threads fully.
Another story is set in a fictional Middle Eastern country where a disowned English son of an earl has married and become 'kagan' (a kind of king). I got lost in a slightly rambling narrative, and couldn't work out where the 'star' of the title fitted in. A positive of this story, however, was the strong female protagonist, although even there, her reaction upon the appearance of the 'English friend' of her husband felt a bit over the top, as the rest of the time, she was clear thinking and in control.
I also enjoyed the final story, One Last Kiss, by Sherry Ewing, a modern miss who time travels back to 12th century Scotland. Lots of fun.
The Viking story was interesting in setting, but I was disappointed when I got to the end, only to discover it wasn't the full story. If you want to know how the revelation of the main character's true identity pans out, you have to buy that author's full book. I prefer short stories that wrap up the threads fully.
Another story is set in a fictional Middle Eastern country where a disowned English son of an earl has married and become 'kagan' (a kind of king). I got lost in a slightly rambling narrative, and couldn't work out where the 'star' of the title fitted in. A positive of this story, however, was the strong female protagonist, although even there, her reaction upon the appearance of the 'English friend' of her husband felt a bit over the top, as the rest of the time, she was clear thinking and in control.
I also enjoyed the final story, One Last Kiss, by Sherry Ewing, a modern miss who time travels back to 12th century Scotland. Lots of fun.
March 18, 2020
An Unusual Anthology from a Talented Group of Writers
What an intriguing collection of novellas! There are eight novellas in this anthology of varying lengths, though the entire length of the book is approximately 650 pages; so some of these are quite short. Interestingly, the stories are all connected to a Viking ring that shows up in every story. The eras spanned by these novellas are surprising, going from Dark Age Viking times to the modern age (though that one is a time travel book). Some stories are the more typical historical romance kind of books, like the one with a matchmaker at its heart. But a few are very unusual, especially the one where the Englishman has a Persian bride and they rule over a fictional kingdom. If you enjoy historical romance, there is bound to be at least one novella about your favorite time or place. As one who enjoys historical romances of all types, I found this collection to be an absolutely delightful one.
I received a free copy of this anthology, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
What an intriguing collection of novellas! There are eight novellas in this anthology of varying lengths, though the entire length of the book is approximately 650 pages; so some of these are quite short. Interestingly, the stories are all connected to a Viking ring that shows up in every story. The eras spanned by these novellas are surprising, going from Dark Age Viking times to the modern age (though that one is a time travel book). Some stories are the more typical historical romance kind of books, like the one with a matchmaker at its heart. But a few are very unusual, especially the one where the Englishman has a Persian bride and they rule over a fictional kingdom. If you enjoy historical romance, there is bound to be at least one novella about your favorite time or place. As one who enjoys historical romances of all types, I found this collection to be an absolutely delightful one.
I received a free copy of this anthology, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
March 15, 2020
This is a wonderful collection of sweet romances written by a group of very talented authors. The storylines center around a mystery that is created around a Viking star ring and touches each of the. I am familiar with the work of one of the author's in this group but the rest are new to me. I am glad I picked this one up because I know have 7 new authors to follow! Each one did a fantastic job with providing vivid descriptions and interesting plots. The storylines were all artfully crafted with well defined characters and kept me hooked until I finished. I had to pace myself as I wanted to read all in one sitting! This is truly a gem of a collection and if you love historical romances, you definitely will want to add this to your collection!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2020
FOLLOW YOUR STAR HOME A BLUESTOCKING BELLES COLLECTION” by RUE ALLYN ELIZABETH ELLEN CARTER SHERRY EWING JUDE KNIGHT AMY QUINTON LIZZI TREMAYNE CAROLINE WARFIELD NICOLE ZOLTACK is a collection of tales of Love penned by the Authors known as the Bluestocking Belles...all these stories are enchanted by the legend of the Viking star ring which re-unites lovers wherever and however they may be separated. In this seasonal collection there are eight tales of Love throughout the centuries....from Denmark 839 to the present day. My favorite being “Paradise Regained “ by Jude Knight, but all of them were wonderful. Read and See! Much enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2019
Jade & Thomas
I love these stories of Knights: if they were as honourable as tis written. Where they call a female My Lady and treat her like gold. Don’t all women wish for that, but it may only be in stories like this one. Either way it’s lovely to read this and have all those wishes. Jades came true and I envy her a bit. Berwick Castle now lays in ruins, but I have seen it and you can imagine these two people there many centuries ago. Visualise Thomas and Jade walking around the Keep smiling and enjoying each other’s company. The fall in love and Wed. I love clean stories, where the romance is the main focus, not what goes on behind the bedroom doors, no smut here. Just a delightful tale. Enjoy.
I love these stories of Knights: if they were as honourable as tis written. Where they call a female My Lady and treat her like gold. Don’t all women wish for that, but it may only be in stories like this one. Either way it’s lovely to read this and have all those wishes. Jades came true and I envy her a bit. Berwick Castle now lays in ruins, but I have seen it and you can imagine these two people there many centuries ago. Visualise Thomas and Jade walking around the Keep smiling and enjoying each other’s company. The fall in love and Wed. I love clean stories, where the romance is the main focus, not what goes on behind the bedroom doors, no smut here. Just a delightful tale. Enjoy.
March 10, 2020
The ring of Frigga is the star of this anthology. Forged so the multi-pointed star will bring true loves together, regardless of distance of even time. Anthologies where the stories have a common theme make the best reading material. I loved the way the authors threaded the ring through different time periods, ranging from Viking to the 1920's. Each story could be a standalone, but together they are brilliant. I enjoyed each author's offering but was delighted to see Amy Quinton's Umbrella Chronicles among the selections. Lady Harriett Ross was one of my favorite characters from the Fire and Frost anthology. The Bluestocking Belles certainly know how to put together an amazing read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2021
This is the third Bluestocking Bells collection that I've read and I have to say that I thought it was the least successful. Of the 8 stories, 2 I really loved, 2 I liked very much, and the other 4 I just didn't like at all--I couldn't finish 3 of them and I regretted reading the fourth.
Of course, everyone's tastes are different, which is one advantage of a collection of stories--everyone is bound to find stories that they enjoy, even if they're not all to their taste. For that reason, although I didn't care for the collection as a whole, because I quite enjoyed half of the stories, I feel it was overall a good investment of my time and I will continue to check out the other books in this series.
Of course, everyone's tastes are different, which is one advantage of a collection of stories--everyone is bound to find stories that they enjoy, even if they're not all to their taste. For that reason, although I didn't care for the collection as a whole, because I quite enjoyed half of the stories, I feel it was overall a good investment of my time and I will continue to check out the other books in this series.
March 11, 2020
A ring with a star.
There is so much in this collection a banished king, a queen without her king, a soldier with a secret that may cause him to lose everything, two souls separated by war, and a time-travel romance and that is just the tip of the iceberg. This collection will touch you in so many ways fear and hope, sadness and joy, loss and love, and anger and forgiveness all in well-written stories by the Bluestocking Belles. High praise to each author and their tale and combined this is one outstanding group of books. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
There is so much in this collection a banished king, a queen without her king, a soldier with a secret that may cause him to lose everything, two souls separated by war, and a time-travel romance and that is just the tip of the iceberg. This collection will touch you in so many ways fear and hope, sadness and joy, loss and love, and anger and forgiveness all in well-written stories by the Bluestocking Belles. High praise to each author and their tale and combined this is one outstanding group of books. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
March 13, 2020
Follow Your Star Home is a wonderful multi-author collection from the Bluestocking Belles. These stories telling of the legend of the Viking star ring are wonderfully crafted and this collection is a great weekend binge-read.
"Forged for lovers, the Viking star ring is said to bring lovers together, no matter how far, no matter how hard."
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight tells the story of two people who were once deeply in love but as the years have gone by, has that love remained true? Can the Viking star ring help them to regain what they once had?
I loved this delightful romance collection.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
"Forged for lovers, the Viking star ring is said to bring lovers together, no matter how far, no matter how hard."
Paradise Regained by Jude Knight tells the story of two people who were once deeply in love but as the years have gone by, has that love remained true? Can the Viking star ring help them to regain what they once had?
I loved this delightful romance collection.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
March 16, 2020
I enjoy reading these authors individually, but look forward to the Bluestocking Belle Anthologies. They never let me down and this collection was no exception.
Although I enjoyed some of the stories more than others, the overall reading experience was enjoyable. I found the stories to be engrossing and the characters strong.
I highly recommend the purchase of this collection of wonderful romances from some of the best Regency Era authors around today.
Thank you to the Bluestocking Belles and BookSprout for allowing me an advance copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Although I enjoyed some of the stories more than others, the overall reading experience was enjoyable. I found the stories to be engrossing and the characters strong.
I highly recommend the purchase of this collection of wonderful romances from some of the best Regency Era authors around today.
Thank you to the Bluestocking Belles and BookSprout for allowing me an advance copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2020
A very entertaining collection of stories. They all center around a ring that is passed down through the generations that supposedly unites lovers. All of the authors did a good job telling their stories and they ran the gamut of history etc. Would have been a 5 star rating but some of the stories were samples and not whole stories. I despise starting a book only to find out it's not all there. If I know in advance it's a little better but I much prefer reading the whole thing at one time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2020
A great set of books by eight very talented authors! Some of the authors I was familiar with and I enjoyed reading the books they had contributed. A number of authors were new to me and I was happy to discover them and their wonderful books! The descriptions in each book were so vivid I became immersed in the time period being portrayed and felt like I could have actually been there right along with each character. Very good indeed!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2020
This is a wonderfully unique collection of stories by many authors I have not read before. I thoroughly enjoyed Jude Knight’s contribution of Paradise Regained that takes place in Iran with an English nobleman married to a Persian. A very different storyline from the Regency stories I read most often. Check out this collection of wonderful short stories written by several different authors.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 16, 2020
Each of these stories were a treat, but I must say that the one offered by Jude both infuriated me and pleased me. It was refreshing to see a man and woman stay true to their commitment to each other while others tried their best to manipulate and interfere. I also very much enjoyed the story about Sonja and her Viking "King". Rewarding stories all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2021
I only read these books because Caroline Warfield is one of the authors. Unfortunately, after I bought this one, I realized that I already owned the story by Warfield. All of the stories were barely one star. Disjointed, poorly written, and not worth the $3.99 I spent on this book. I will be more careful before I purchase another of these really bad anthologies so that I do not buy another one that includes a story I have already read by Warfield.
November 3, 2018
Follow Your Star Home. The book was an amazing experience. The stories were like you were there hoping everything will work out for each couple. There was laughter and tears throughout the book. I didn't want to read the last few pages, because I didn't want the book to end.Thank you all for writing a wonderful story for this book.
November 13, 2018
What a wonderful set of stories by remarkable authors this book is! I so enjoyed each story individually, each author did an awesome job of writing their own story about the very magical Viking star ring. Set in various eras, the ring brings couples together that are meant to be!! Thank you to the Bluestocking Belles for writing such amazing stories for us to read. May we all have such a ring!!
February 24, 2019
I love magic
This anthology has my favorite authors writing romance as they do best. I loved how the magic of the ring brought so many coup!we together. I wish I could find rd he ring myself. Lol..The Belles are all great writers their characters feel like family and each book takes you to that detailed place they write about. Loved all the books highly recommended
This anthology has my favorite authors writing romance as they do best. I loved how the magic of the ring brought so many coup!we together. I wish I could find rd he ring myself. Lol..The Belles are all great writers their characters feel like family and each book takes you to that detailed place they write about. Loved all the books highly recommended
March 12, 2020
A lovely boxset of novellas spanning many years about true love. Each story is very different, set n different times and places. The characters are all well written and I was rooting for each couple even though many had significant ups and downs. A very enjoyable read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2020
Eight stories covering more than a thousand years, all of them by different Authors and are well written. Some authors I have read and some are new to me, I want to read this set again. The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie’s Story by Amy Quinton had me laughing as I read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2020
This was a magical romance collection that span from time of Vikings to present day. The male leads were scoundrels who were redeemed by the women they fell in love with. There was a magical ring that traveled throughout the stories, imaginary realms, and a time travel romance. Some stories and characters I like better than others.
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