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The Christmas Angel #1
Christmas Angel
When John Trent, a dedicated member of the new Bow Street Runners, finds an exquisite carved angel floating in the Thames, he can’t stop thinking about it. He tracks down its creator, a sad and quiet young sculptor. But neither the angel nor the sculptor is done with John just yet. The blasted angel refuses to leave him be, behaving not at all like an inanimate object should.
Alec Allston is resigned to the fact that his love will ever be a river that flows out and never flows in. All he wanted to do was create a special gift so that a small part of himself could be with his unattainable and noble beloved, always. But when the gift keeps showing back up at his shop in the hands of a windblown and rugged thief-taker, Alec will need to reconsider his conviction that love is destined to remain an ethereal ideal.
This book is one of seven stories which can all be read and enjoyed in any order.
* * * * *
The Christmas Angel Series:
In 1750, a master woodcarver poured all his unrequited love, passion, and longing into his masterpiece—a gorgeous Christmas angel for his beloved’s tree. When the man he loved tossed the angel away without a second thought, a miracle happened. The angel was found by another who brought the woodcarver True Love.
Since then, the angel has been passed down, sold, lost and found, but its magic remains. Read the romances inspired by (and perhaps nudged along by) the Christmas angel through the years. Whether it’s the 1880’s New York (Kim Fielding’s Summerfield’s Angel), the turn-of-the-century (Jordan L. Hawk’s Magician’s Angel), World War II (L.A. Witt’s Christmas Homecoming), Vietnam-era (N.R. Walker’s Soldier’s Wish), the 1990’s (Anyta Sunday’s Shrewd Angel), or 2018 (RJ Scott’s Christmas Prince), the Christmas angel has a way of landing on the trees of lonely men who need its blessing for a very Merry Christmas and forever HEA.
Alec Allston is resigned to the fact that his love will ever be a river that flows out and never flows in. All he wanted to do was create a special gift so that a small part of himself could be with his unattainable and noble beloved, always. But when the gift keeps showing back up at his shop in the hands of a windblown and rugged thief-taker, Alec will need to reconsider his conviction that love is destined to remain an ethereal ideal.
This book is one of seven stories which can all be read and enjoyed in any order.
* * * * *
The Christmas Angel Series:
In 1750, a master woodcarver poured all his unrequited love, passion, and longing into his masterpiece—a gorgeous Christmas angel for his beloved’s tree. When the man he loved tossed the angel away without a second thought, a miracle happened. The angel was found by another who brought the woodcarver True Love.
Since then, the angel has been passed down, sold, lost and found, but its magic remains. Read the romances inspired by (and perhaps nudged along by) the Christmas angel through the years. Whether it’s the 1880’s New York (Kim Fielding’s Summerfield’s Angel), the turn-of-the-century (Jordan L. Hawk’s Magician’s Angel), World War II (L.A. Witt’s Christmas Homecoming), Vietnam-era (N.R. Walker’s Soldier’s Wish), the 1990’s (Anyta Sunday’s Shrewd Angel), or 2018 (RJ Scott’s Christmas Prince), the Christmas angel has a way of landing on the trees of lonely men who need its blessing for a very Merry Christmas and forever HEA.
153 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2018
161 people are currently reading
873 people want to read
About the author
Eli Easton
83 books2,804 followersHaving been, at various times and under different names, a minister’s daughter, a computer programmer, the author of paranormal mysteries, a game designer, an organic farmer, an avid hiker, and a profound sleeper, Eli is happily embarking on yet another incarnation as a m/m romance author.
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 300 reviews
November 29, 2018
4.5
*twirling*
LOVED IT.
Get ready for an adorable Historical Christmas story.
The first book in this charming series.....I use the word series loosely because each book can be read on their own....BUT....there is a connection in the form of an Angel ornament/tree decoration.
What a lovely concept these Authors have come up with here.An Angel seemingly casting her magic and bringing men from different worlds together.Each book captures a different era and the romantic in me wants to believe it's the same Angel in each story.
This book takes place in 18th century London and I adored it.I'm all about the smouldering passion in Historical books,lingering looks,forbidden thoughts,clandestine meetings....I was practically swooning.
John is a London Bow Street Runner(yes,that's an actual thing from British history),law enforcement of sorts.When investigating a case one day he finds a beautiful carved Angel floating in the river Thames.Fascinated by it's beauty and determined to find out why it was cast aside he tracks down it's maker....a beautiful young sculptor,Alec.
Alec is horrified,the Angel had a special meaning to him and can't quite believe it's made it's way back to him.And the man who found it,along with the Angel keep returning...
Honestly,this story is just perfect.I devoured it.
-the setting in London at Christmas was just how I imagined it from history,
-John and Alec are just too cute together.A gentle courtship had me melting with John bringing Alec small gifts each day,
-a wonderful array of supporting characters that shared John's lodgings.
This is the third book I've read in this charming series and I highly recommend it.
You'll fall in love with John and Alec.
An Arc of Christmas Angel was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
*twirling*
LOVED IT.
Get ready for an adorable Historical Christmas story.
The first book in this charming series.....I use the word series loosely because each book can be read on their own....BUT....there is a connection in the form of an Angel ornament/tree decoration.
What a lovely concept these Authors have come up with here.An Angel seemingly casting her magic and bringing men from different worlds together.Each book captures a different era and the romantic in me wants to believe it's the same Angel in each story.
This book takes place in 18th century London and I adored it.I'm all about the smouldering passion in Historical books,lingering looks,forbidden thoughts,clandestine meetings....I was practically swooning.
John is a London Bow Street Runner(yes,that's an actual thing from British history),law enforcement of sorts.When investigating a case one day he finds a beautiful carved Angel floating in the river Thames.Fascinated by it's beauty and determined to find out why it was cast aside he tracks down it's maker....a beautiful young sculptor,Alec.
Alec is horrified,the Angel had a special meaning to him and can't quite believe it's made it's way back to him.And the man who found it,along with the Angel keep returning...
Honestly,this story is just perfect.I devoured it.
-the setting in London at Christmas was just how I imagined it from history,
-John and Alec are just too cute together.A gentle courtship had me melting with John bringing Alec small gifts each day,
-a wonderful array of supporting characters that shared John's lodgings.
This is the third book I've read in this charming series and I highly recommend it.
You'll fall in love with John and Alec.
An Arc of Christmas Angel was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
This review is post
ed on DirtyBooksObsession
December 3, 2018
~4.5~
This is the first story, the story of how the angel came to be. It’s also the story of Alec, an artist and sculptor, and John, one of the Bow Street Runners (London’s first police force founded by Judge Fielding in 1749).
Filled with pain and despair, Alec almost ends his life, but an ephemeral woman with golden red hair tells him that his days aren’t over, that there’s joy to be found yet. Alec later carves the likeness of this woman into the figure of an angel that he gifts to a man not worthy of Alec’s affection. Because when Alec falls, he falls forever.
John Trent is smart and tough; he catches criminals and solves mysteries. When he finds a statue of an angel floating in the Thames, he tracks down her owner and returns the lifelike angel to Alec. But the angel finds John again, which John takes as a sign. Besides, he’s grown quite fond of demure, polite Alec, whose quiet self-possession makes John weak in the knees.
John begins courting Alec, bringing him small gifts and asking him out for an evening stroll. This was positively adorable and made my heart feel all warm and gooey.
I loved John’s diverse group of friends, including his cheerful, welcoming landlady and her long-suffering husband, a mildly snooty but sweet-at-heart painter named Dante, and a lonely older gentleman who’s been living with guilt and regret.
The Christmas Eve John and Alec spend together at John’s lodging house is a true joy, something lovely and pure and true.
When John first meets Alec, Alec has taken a vow of celibacy. But John doesn’t see physical love as something weak but as something beautiful. The one steamy scene between the men is sexy in a subdued way, but—considering Alec’s initial hesitation and shame—I think the passion could have been turned up a notch.
While the story ends with a tentative HEA, it lacks an epilogue. This was mildly disappointing, but it didn’t diminish the power of this holiday romance.
Magic isn’t found in grand gestures and fancy clothes but a juicy, red apple and the touch of his lips against yours.
This is the first story, the story of how the angel came to be. It’s also the story of Alec, an artist and sculptor, and John, one of the Bow Street Runners (London’s first police force founded by Judge Fielding in 1749).
Filled with pain and despair, Alec almost ends his life, but an ephemeral woman with golden red hair tells him that his days aren’t over, that there’s joy to be found yet. Alec later carves the likeness of this woman into the figure of an angel that he gifts to a man not worthy of Alec’s affection. Because when Alec falls, he falls forever.
John Trent is smart and tough; he catches criminals and solves mysteries. When he finds a statue of an angel floating in the Thames, he tracks down her owner and returns the lifelike angel to Alec. But the angel finds John again, which John takes as a sign. Besides, he’s grown quite fond of demure, polite Alec, whose quiet self-possession makes John weak in the knees.
John begins courting Alec, bringing him small gifts and asking him out for an evening stroll. This was positively adorable and made my heart feel all warm and gooey.
I loved John’s diverse group of friends, including his cheerful, welcoming landlady and her long-suffering husband, a mildly snooty but sweet-at-heart painter named Dante, and a lonely older gentleman who’s been living with guilt and regret.
The Christmas Eve John and Alec spend together at John’s lodging house is a true joy, something lovely and pure and true.
When John first meets Alec, Alec has taken a vow of celibacy. But John doesn’t see physical love as something weak but as something beautiful. The one steamy scene between the men is sexy in a subdued way, but—considering Alec’s initial hesitation and shame—I think the passion could have been turned up a notch.
While the story ends with a tentative HEA, it lacks an epilogue. This was mildly disappointing, but it didn’t diminish the power of this holiday romance.
Magic isn’t found in grand gestures and fancy clothes but a juicy, red apple and the touch of his lips against yours.
December 3, 2018
Definitely a big ole' case of, "It's not you, it really is me..."
I mainly requested this one because 1.) I wanted to have a bit of history about "the angel" for other books in the series and 2.) it's Eli Easton, so hellooooo.
But the fact that the story is extremely historical, like historical on steroids, while it was extremely well-written, I've once again (and again and again) confirmed that much like mysteries, historical stories are simply *not* for me.
Don't get me wrong, though. I did like Alec and John, but OMG, the formality of calling everyone by their title, instead of by their first name, nearly drove me out of my tree.
Plus, as with pretty much every historical with gay characters ever, all of the hiding and shame. Christ, I can't with that, hence my disdain for historicals in general. One wrong move and Harry Homo would end up in the dungeons. Or whatever they had in England in the 1750's.
If you're a fan of period settings, this one was good, so I'd recommend it. Just not for me.
3.25 stars for my own *personal* enjoyment of the story.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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January 3, 2020
4 Holiday Hearts! - Team review with Chelsea!
A perfect start to this historical series loosely tied by a magical Christmas angel!
See how it all begins with the angel’s creation as Alec pours his heartfelt emotions, desire, and love into making the figurine as a token to a man he can never have. What Alec doesn’t expect is to be rejected, only to have the discarded angel brought back to him by ruggedly handsome “lawman” John, who’s instantly intrigued and taken with the artist.
What ensues is really quite the endearing courting, culminating in Alec and John spending the holiday together solidifying their new love, something they never thought themselves worthy or able to have - all thanks to a persistent angel who wouldn’t let them pass each other by.
Overall, just a feel good, smexy lite, emotional, and touching holiday romance!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
A perfect start to this historical series loosely tied by a magical Christmas angel!
See how it all begins with the angel’s creation as Alec pours his heartfelt emotions, desire, and love into making the figurine as a token to a man he can never have. What Alec doesn’t expect is to be rejected, only to have the discarded angel brought back to him by ruggedly handsome “lawman” John, who’s instantly intrigued and taken with the artist.
What ensues is really quite the endearing courting, culminating in Alec and John spending the holiday together solidifying their new love, something they never thought themselves worthy or able to have - all thanks to a persistent angel who wouldn’t let them pass each other by.
Overall, just a feel good, smexy lite, emotional, and touching holiday romance!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
December 1, 2023
FINALLY a good historical Christmas book!! This was so good and wholesome and everything you expect in a Christmassy story and especially one by Eli Easton . I absolutely loved it, it was perfection (well, with little exceptions) .The vocabulary, the description of clothes and customs and everything felt so authentic-1750 , wigs and wood sculptures,Bow Street Runners, a gentle and beautiful romance an amazing handful of assorted characters. Ahhh simply looooovely. I know I sound old but they don’t make them like they used to . *sighs
December 4, 2018
4 Stars
This was a truly lovely Christmastime romance and a really great introduction to the bigger Christmas Angel series.
Set in the 1750s, the story follows two lonely souls coming together and finding true love with the help of a bit of divine intervention.
MCs Alec and John were extremely sweet together. I loved the eager and considerate way John chose to court Alec; it was very romantic and put a goofy smile on my face.
Normally I find M/M historical romances to be quite stressful, due to the all the intolerance of the times and the constant fear of being found out, but for some reason I didn’t experience those worries while reading this one. Alec and John’s romance was certainly moving and captivating, but I consider it to be on the lighter side of angsty, which is just what I was after in this instance.
Another element of this story that I particularly enjoyed were the secondary characters that made up the fellow residents at John’s lodging. They played such a welcoming and supportive role in John and Alec’s lives, and they left a smile on my face every time they graced the page.
This was a lovely holiday read and I look forward to reading further in this multi-author series. Unsurprisingly, Easton is proving truly impressive in her new foray into the historical genre and I can’t wait to see what she fancies up next.
This was a truly lovely Christmastime romance and a really great introduction to the bigger Christmas Angel series.
Set in the 1750s, the story follows two lonely souls coming together and finding true love with the help of a bit of divine intervention.
MCs Alec and John were extremely sweet together. I loved the eager and considerate way John chose to court Alec; it was very romantic and put a goofy smile on my face.
Normally I find M/M historical romances to be quite stressful, due to the all the intolerance of the times and the constant fear of being found out, but for some reason I didn’t experience those worries while reading this one. Alec and John’s romance was certainly moving and captivating, but I consider it to be on the lighter side of angsty, which is just what I was after in this instance.
Another element of this story that I particularly enjoyed were the secondary characters that made up the fellow residents at John’s lodging. They played such a welcoming and supportive role in John and Alec’s lives, and they left a smile on my face every time they graced the page.
This was a lovely holiday read and I look forward to reading further in this multi-author series. Unsurprisingly, Easton is proving truly impressive in her new foray into the historical genre and I can’t wait to see what she fancies up next.
November 12, 2018
I wrote another book in this series. But we each wrote our books independently, as standalones, so I can be pretty objective about this book.
And I love it. Eli nails the historical setting perfectly, including the real concerns about social status and social propriety. More importantly, however, the characters are lovely. I could feel the longing between Alec and John very clearly. There are also some really fun secondary characters and a plot with a hint of magic and intrigue. A perfect Christmas story.
And I love it. Eli nails the historical setting perfectly, including the real concerns about social status and social propriety. More importantly, however, the characters are lovely. I could feel the longing between Alec and John very clearly. There are also some really fun secondary characters and a plot with a hint of magic and intrigue. A perfect Christmas story.
November 10, 2018
<3
Disclaimer, I have a book as part of this series. However, all the books are standalones and I've been so thrilled to read some of the stories already. And OMG guys. I love this Christmas Angel SO HARD.
I'm just so in love with this story. Like, crazy love. TRENT, eh. <3 Dashing. Confident. Suave.
I honestly don't know how Eli does it. She wields her pen with magic. You guys are gonna go nuts.
<3
Disclaimer, I have a book as part of this series. However, all the books are standalones and I've been so thrilled to read some of the stories already. And OMG guys. I love this Christmas Angel SO HARD.
I'm just so in love with this story. Like, crazy love. TRENT, eh. <3 Dashing. Confident. Suave.
I honestly don't know how Eli does it. She wields her pen with magic. You guys are gonna go nuts.
<3
October 29, 2022
3.75 Stars
For the most part, I enjoyed this Georgian Xmas HR. The only thing that faltered my overall experience were some historical inaccuracies.
For the most part, I enjoyed this Georgian Xmas HR. The only thing that faltered my overall experience were some historical inaccuracies.
December 5, 2018
Hurrayyy to Eli Easton for yet another Christmas story win! I swear that she writes the best Christmas stories out there. I loved timid Alec and chivalrous John. This is a slow-burn, feel-good love story with hope, happiness and a perfect happily ever after. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
4.5 loving someone is never a sin stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
4.5 loving someone is never a sin stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
November 17, 2018
Eli Easton kicks off this loosely interlinked series of festive romances with a truly beautiful historical set in the Georgian period of English history.
Giving the backstory to the Christmas Angel, her romance between a sculptor and a Bow Street Runner is chock full of lovely historical accuracy and all the feels as two men whose very proclivities could have seen them to the noose, fall in love.
I adored Alec but John Trent is a fabulous character, solid and strong, truthful and determined to be the one his artist can rely on.
It's steamy but period appropriate and I loved the whole imagination behind the Angel's creation. Mrs Simpson's household of 'deviants' was an utter delight.
I can't wait to follow the Angel on her travels through time in this wonderful series from some of my favourite authors.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Giving the backstory to the Christmas Angel, her romance between a sculptor and a Bow Street Runner is chock full of lovely historical accuracy and all the feels as two men whose very proclivities could have seen them to the noose, fall in love.
I adored Alec but John Trent is a fabulous character, solid and strong, truthful and determined to be the one his artist can rely on.
It's steamy but period appropriate and I loved the whole imagination behind the Angel's creation. Mrs Simpson's household of 'deviants' was an utter delight.
I can't wait to follow the Angel on her travels through time in this wonderful series from some of my favourite authors.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
December 2, 2018
December is my favorite month. I decorate every nook and cranny, whip us a storm in the kitchen, and gorge myself on holiday stories. Much to my delight, a group of my favorite authors collaborated on a series of Christmas tales this year. I kinda skipped around with the order, but no matter, it’s the magic of a special angel that ties each book together. I’m still dipping my toes into the historical trope, just recently discovering how wonderful they can be. Easton takes us back to 1750 in London where we meet two fetching men brought together in the most unusual manner.
What's to like: Although they are quite different, both John and Alec are likable from the start. John is a large man, a bit rough around the edges, but he has a sweet and tender core. His job can be dangerous at times but it soothes a personal loss and gives him purpose. When he finds a magnificent sculpture discarded in the Thames, something shifts in him. He’s captivated by her, her story and soon enough, her creator. Alec was touched by an angel and vowed to take heed her advise. Pouring himself into his work and allowing his muse to take over, he’s become a successful artist. But that’s all he has. His art. When the relentless Bow Street Runner begins to court him, his eyes open and he suddenly understands what he’s missed before. Affection, friends, and the gentle touch of a lover…he wants all of them with a yearning he’s never felt before. But will his past destroy his future?
What's to love: I’m always entranced by Easton’s stories and this time I was swept away with the grace and beauty of John and Alec. Alec thought he found love, only to have it thrown back in his face. But he was wrong. He might have been infatuated by the persuasive duke but he never truly loved him or in turn, was loved by him. John has never considered himself a romantic sort of fellow but Alec turns him inside out. He wishes to make him happy, care for him and above all, love him. I adored their delicate courtship. I couldn’t get enough of John’s household residents, each one special in their own way. And I simply melted with the wondrous powers of this elegant enchantment.
Beware of: New experiences for both. Alec has never been with anyone before and John has never been with anyone he loved before. Their relationship is brisk but solid. I have no reservations that they will remain together, filled with joy by and by, for all time.
This book is for: Are you looking for some holiday tales? Start here with this heavenly red-haired lady. She will take you on a passionate journey…and this is just the beginning.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: Although they are quite different, both John and Alec are likable from the start. John is a large man, a bit rough around the edges, but he has a sweet and tender core. His job can be dangerous at times but it soothes a personal loss and gives him purpose. When he finds a magnificent sculpture discarded in the Thames, something shifts in him. He’s captivated by her, her story and soon enough, her creator. Alec was touched by an angel and vowed to take heed her advise. Pouring himself into his work and allowing his muse to take over, he’s become a successful artist. But that’s all he has. His art. When the relentless Bow Street Runner begins to court him, his eyes open and he suddenly understands what he’s missed before. Affection, friends, and the gentle touch of a lover…he wants all of them with a yearning he’s never felt before. But will his past destroy his future?
What's to love: I’m always entranced by Easton’s stories and this time I was swept away with the grace and beauty of John and Alec. Alec thought he found love, only to have it thrown back in his face. But he was wrong. He might have been infatuated by the persuasive duke but he never truly loved him or in turn, was loved by him. John has never considered himself a romantic sort of fellow but Alec turns him inside out. He wishes to make him happy, care for him and above all, love him. I adored their delicate courtship. I couldn’t get enough of John’s household residents, each one special in their own way. And I simply melted with the wondrous powers of this elegant enchantment.
Beware of: New experiences for both. Alec has never been with anyone before and John has never been with anyone he loved before. Their relationship is brisk but solid. I have no reservations that they will remain together, filled with joy by and by, for all time.
This book is for: Are you looking for some holiday tales? Start here with this heavenly red-haired lady. She will take you on a passionate journey…and this is just the beginning.
Book UNfunk
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November 30, 2023
Such a lovely Christmas romance! A historical one, set in 1750s London, UK. What I loved most was the courtship taking place before any words of affection were spoken. Absolutely charming.
December 13, 2019
What a lovely Xmasy read! :)
I'm always wary of historical MM romances... I often find them hard to believe, especially if set in a community/time period where it was punishable by prison or death. Because how to find a soulmate or a sex partner in an environment so hostile that frequenting a 'wrong' address or addressing a 'wrong' person can send you to the gallows?
Well, I tend to NOT read historicals, at least not the 'real' ones (I can cope with AU or PNR) but for Eli Easton and for the sake of Christmas spirit I can make an exception, I guess... ;)
The story of Alec, a gifted wood sculptor, and John, a Bow Street Runner, is sweet and perfect for Xmas. (I find the whole idea of a 'wandering' angel figurine great!)
I truly don't know if a lodging house full of such interesting, uncommon inhabitants could really exist in 1752 London, but I don't care - I simply adored them all! Even Dante, the gruff artist ;)
The story is simple and short but it still made me feel Xmasy and warm and, I think, that was exactly its purpose, right?
I'm looking forward to hearing from that angel again! ;)
I'm always wary of historical MM romances... I often find them hard to believe, especially if set in a community/time period where it was punishable by prison or death. Because how to find a soulmate or a sex partner in an environment so hostile that frequenting a 'wrong' address or addressing a 'wrong' person can send you to the gallows?
Well, I tend to NOT read historicals, at least not the 'real' ones (I can cope with AU or PNR) but for Eli Easton and for the sake of Christmas spirit I can make an exception, I guess... ;)
The story of Alec, a gifted wood sculptor, and John, a Bow Street Runner, is sweet and perfect for Xmas. (I find the whole idea of a 'wandering' angel figurine great!)
I truly don't know if a lodging house full of such interesting, uncommon inhabitants could really exist in 1752 London, but I don't care - I simply adored them all! Even Dante, the gruff artist ;)
The story is simple and short but it still made me feel Xmasy and warm and, I think, that was exactly its purpose, right?
I'm looking forward to hearing from that angel again! ;)
December 16, 2018
3.5 stars.
My first Eli Easton story (I hear the resounding gasps). While I wasn't awestruck by Christmas Angel, I enjoyed it. It was a well-written, charming, and heartwarming holiday tale.
My first Eli Easton story (I hear the resounding gasps). While I wasn't awestruck by Christmas Angel, I enjoyed it. It was a well-written, charming, and heartwarming holiday tale.
December 5, 2018
4.3 Stars
OMG I am almost afraid to read the rest of the books in this series because this one was so good. I loved it...
EDITED TO ADD: Why aren't my Notes and Highlights showing up as options to share???
OMG I am almost afraid to read the rest of the books in this series because this one was so good. I loved it...
EDITED TO ADD: Why aren't my Notes and Highlights showing up as options to share???
December 10, 2018
Overall book rating: 4
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
I love this time of year! One of the reasons – The Christmas / Holiday reads of course! I can’t wait to get my grabby hands on them.
I don’t usually read a whole lot of “historical” but this just worked for me. The concept of this series just makes my romantic little heart beat wildly.
Eli Easton did not disappoint. The first book of the series kicked off with a resounding bang and it made me want to read the rest to see where this is going. Even though it can be read as stand alones why would you want to????? Read them all!
I really liked both the MC’s and the different setting – being a hisorical and all – made me even maybe have a “little-bit” more fun than I thought I would have. LOVED IT
Sad and accepting that loneliness will be his constant companion, Alec puts his heart into a carving. A carving that inhabits just enough magic and heavenly being to see to it that he doesn’t end up living his live like that after all.
In swoops handsome and strong John Trent. Paying mind to the Angel and falling for the talented Alec and his sad eyes.
What more do you want from a holiday read? It’s got oodles of sweet and fluffy!
On to the next one!
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
I love this time of year! One of the reasons – The Christmas / Holiday reads of course! I can’t wait to get my grabby hands on them.
I don’t usually read a whole lot of “historical” but this just worked for me. The concept of this series just makes my romantic little heart beat wildly.
Eli Easton did not disappoint. The first book of the series kicked off with a resounding bang and it made me want to read the rest to see where this is going. Even though it can be read as stand alones why would you want to????? Read them all!
I really liked both the MC’s and the different setting – being a hisorical and all – made me even maybe have a “little-bit” more fun than I thought I would have. LOVED IT
Sad and accepting that loneliness will be his constant companion, Alec puts his heart into a carving. A carving that inhabits just enough magic and heavenly being to see to it that he doesn’t end up living his live like that after all.
In swoops handsome and strong John Trent. Paying mind to the Angel and falling for the talented Alec and his sad eyes.
What more do you want from a holiday read? It’s got oodles of sweet and fluffy!
On to the next one!
December 2, 2023
3.25 stars ...
This was a cute meet and sweet courting/romance ...
very little story beyond that.
It was a bit dull & slow ...
with lots of inner dialogue/musing
from the two main characters.
I prefer more "story". 🤷♂️
I've read a number of Eli Easton books ...
so I know she has much more interesting tales. 😁
This was a cute meet and sweet courting/romance ...
very little story beyond that.
It was a bit dull & slow ...
with lots of inner dialogue/musing
from the two main characters.
I prefer more "story". 🤷♂️
I've read a number of Eli Easton books ...
so I know she has much more interesting tales. 😁
December 16, 2018
Ahh, this was simply delightful. What a cute, sweet story about a Alec, a professional carver who carved a lovely angel figurine to give to a man he thought he loved, a Duke, two years after they've ended their...thing, their infatuation, as a token of his love, while the guy married a woman.
But he throws it away into the Thames because he is scared and determined to hide who he is at all costs.
In comes John, who finds the angel in the Thames, and when he brings it back to Alec's shop after asking around, Alec's reaction to finding out it had been thrown away into the river is most interesting.
When John finds the angel again, this time in an alley during a job as a Bow Street Runner - or whatever they're called - he brings it back to Alec, but Alec tells him to keep it, and so he does...and he can't seem to get Alec out of his mind.
So he starts visiting Alec's shop every day, and Alec becomes increasingly enamored with John as well.
These two were so sweet together and the romance really came across great, and there was chemistry too - and while I wish there had been more sexytimes, I understand why there wasn't with Alec having been a virgin before John. He'd need time to build up to it, to be ready for more.
I really loved this, it was such a win for me. Two massive thumbs up from me! Definitely recommend :D
But he throws it away into the Thames because he is scared and determined to hide who he is at all costs.
In comes John, who finds the angel in the Thames, and when he brings it back to Alec's shop after asking around, Alec's reaction to finding out it had been thrown away into the river is most interesting.
When John finds the angel again, this time in an alley during a job as a Bow Street Runner - or whatever they're called - he brings it back to Alec, but Alec tells him to keep it, and so he does...and he can't seem to get Alec out of his mind.
So he starts visiting Alec's shop every day, and Alec becomes increasingly enamored with John as well.
These two were so sweet together and the romance really came across great, and there was chemistry too - and while I wish there had been more sexytimes, I understand why there wasn't with Alec having been a virgin before John. He'd need time to build up to it, to be ready for more.
I really loved this, it was such a win for me. Two massive thumbs up from me! Definitely recommend :D
October 14, 2022
It was period appropriate. 28 yr old virgin. Some frottage. Done.
It was OK. I thought it was strange tho that John would take it upon himself to go knocking on a Duke’s door and have that confrontation. I thought that was very strange. And honestly if William was a little more ruthless, I think he could have done something horrible to both John and Alec later on.
That part I was totally shaking me head about.
It was OK. I thought it was strange tho that John would take it upon himself to go knocking on a Duke’s door and have that confrontation. I thought that was very strange. And honestly if William was a little more ruthless, I think he could have done something horrible to both John and Alec later on.
That part I was totally shaking me head about.
November 29, 2018
This book has everything I love in a story! Holiday, mm, historical, London, and Bow Street Runners! I have 'a thing, like a weak spot' for a Bow Street Runners and John won my heart, and Alec's heart, of course.
Alec had to thank the angel he met that night, for making him cancelled his stupidity over what he called love. Pfft!
Eli Easton hit the spot with this book, I think, this series is my Christmas favorite series with all the beautiful stories included.
I was blushed with how John romancing Alec, and how smooth he approached Alec from the start. He's such a gentleman!
And I almost didn't believed it when it was the shy Alec who initiate to 'visit' John's rooms! You know what I mean? (Cough!)
The ending was 'believable' for that era, and I was happy with that.
Christmas angel is one of a must read Christmas book, if not all the book of the series!
Highly recommended!
December 19, 2019
I just wanted to go aahhhhh at the end there. Such a wonderful feel-good romance!
John and Alec just warmed my heart. Getting some lovely firsts and a bit of magic was awesome, too.
Lovely, lovely start to the Christmas angel series!
John and Alec just warmed my heart. Getting some lovely firsts and a bit of magic was awesome, too.
Lovely, lovely start to the Christmas angel series!
December 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this short historical Christmas story. Aside from a bit of ridiculous villainy down the stretch that felt unlikely and forced and disturbed the overall flow and tone, Christmas Angel was a lovely, heartwarming story that ticked all my boxes.
December 4, 2018
I am so excited to get this as a gift from the incredibly generous, super sweet Elf sleuthing a la Elmer Fudd, who is spoiling me rotten! Well, more rotten, LOL! Thank you!! Reading now. :)
*****
4.5 stars! Eli Easton writes wonderful, heart-tugging stories all of the time but her Christmas stories are always something special. This was so sweet, romantic and hopeful, I was a big melted puddle of happy when I finished. If I could have wished for anything more, it would have been a little more heat but my true regret is that there wasn't more!
Thank you again to the wonderful Elf sleuthing a la Elmer Fudd for the gift, which I loved! <3
*****
4.5 stars! Eli Easton writes wonderful, heart-tugging stories all of the time but her Christmas stories are always something special. This was so sweet, romantic and hopeful, I was a big melted puddle of happy when I finished. If I could have wished for anything more, it would have been a little more heat but my true regret is that there wasn't more!
Thank you again to the wonderful Elf sleuthing a la Elmer Fudd for the gift, which I loved! <3
December 5, 2018
I quite enjoyed this lovely little story, so I'm going to overlook the inaccuracy of Mr. and Mrs. Simpson having a Christmas tree in their home in London in 1752. ;)
December 26, 2025
*** Re-read December 2025. Rounded down as I've found quite a few things that definitely wouldn't have been around over here in 1750. 3.5 stars rounded up.***
Historical 🎄🎄 Christmassy ⛄⛄ novella from Eli, the first in the Christmas Angel series, which is set in London in the 1750's. I loved the secondary characters in Trent's lodgings, and was rather happy that the Duke of Claridge was outplayed by 'commoners' at his own scandalous attempt at blackmail.
Historical 🎄🎄 Christmassy ⛄⛄ novella from Eli, the first in the Christmas Angel series, which is set in London in the 1750's. I loved the secondary characters in Trent's lodgings, and was rather happy that the Duke of Claridge was outplayed by 'commoners' at his own scandalous attempt at blackmail.
December 25, 2018
Very sweet story. I loved it.
December 2, 2023
Just as wonderful the second time! Such a sweet historical Christmas romance! Eli Easton will always be one of my favorite m/m authors! 5 Christmas stars!
November 27, 2018
I'm pretty sure there's nothing Eli can't write.
Her last book had me on the edge with Boy Shattered and this one had me in the most hopeful, Christmasy mood. It's not my first Christmas read by her either, but it IS my first historical, and I'm not BIG on historical, so I'm not a huge judgement of accuracy or anything, but, She just seems to be able to write any trope, and rocks it.
This is about an artist who's about to give up, but is visited by an angel during his lowest moment. In return, he makes a likeness of her as a special gift to his "first love" to remember them by. Unaware that it's unrequited, until a stranger shows up with the angel... Not once, but twice.
John is basically thief -runner, what I come to conclude as a sort of police officer. They're trolling the shores looking for some items that may have started a crime spree, but what John finds is something entirely different.
A good motto for John is "never judge a book by it's cover". He may seem big and gruff and tough, but he has a lot of soft spots. Especially for his gang of misfits that he's housed with. I think I loved that part the most. Also, the way he courts Alec, the small things he brings for him daily. I like his style, I think it's the small things that matter, not huge gestures and I thought they were really sweet.
This is a standalone, but part of the Christmas Angel series, so I'm dying to get my hands on Kim Fielding's story next :)
Her last book had me on the edge with Boy Shattered and this one had me in the most hopeful, Christmasy mood. It's not my first Christmas read by her either, but it IS my first historical, and I'm not BIG on historical, so I'm not a huge judgement of accuracy or anything, but, She just seems to be able to write any trope, and rocks it.
This is about an artist who's about to give up, but is visited by an angel during his lowest moment. In return, he makes a likeness of her as a special gift to his "first love" to remember them by. Unaware that it's unrequited, until a stranger shows up with the angel... Not once, but twice.
John is basically thief -runner, what I come to conclude as a sort of police officer. They're trolling the shores looking for some items that may have started a crime spree, but what John finds is something entirely different.
A good motto for John is "never judge a book by it's cover". He may seem big and gruff and tough, but he has a lot of soft spots. Especially for his gang of misfits that he's housed with. I think I loved that part the most. Also, the way he courts Alec, the small things he brings for him daily. I like his style, I think it's the small things that matter, not huge gestures and I thought they were really sweet.
This is a standalone, but part of the Christmas Angel series, so I'm dying to get my hands on Kim Fielding's story next :)
December 5, 2018
A💜J
Now that was just so freaking adorably cute. I really enjoyed this story. It was sweet and just the type of read I enjoy during this time of year. A story of hope and love.
Now that was just so freaking adorably cute. I really enjoyed this story. It was sweet and just the type of read I enjoy during this time of year. A story of hope and love.
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