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Devoted Hearts #7
Penny's Yuletide Wish
When Penny and Robert meet again on Christmas Eve, will their childhood love bloom into something more? They only have the Twelve Days of Christmas to find out.
Robert Ellsworth, born the son of a wealthy gentleman, is now a mere steward in the service of another. While his position brings him satisfaction, it does not make him much of a matrimonial catch. It hardly matters, as Robert’s heart has long belonged to his childhood friend. When a chance meeting brings them face to face on Christmas Eve, he cannot bring himself to hope that she feels the same.
When she lost her parents years before, Penelope Clark also lost contact with her dearest friend. Visiting the community where she grew up, Penny is taken aback by how handsome Robert has grown, and how little her girlhood infatuation has diminished. But when a Christmas Ball leads to a mistletoe kiss him, she finds herself as much in love as ever before. Unfortunately for her, Robert confesses his heart already belongs to a mysterious woman.
Through the Twelve Days of Christmas, Penny and Robert each make a wish for the other’s happiness. Will they realize only confessing their hearts will grant those wishes before their time together is spent?
Penny’s Yuletide Wish is a sweet Regency romance novella, and continuation of the Branches of Love series by Sally Britton. It can be read as a stand-alone romance.
Other books in the series include:
Prequel Novella: Martha's Patience
The Social Tutor
The Gentleman Physician
His Bluestocking Bride
The Earl and His Lady
Miss Devon's Choice
Courting the Vicar’s Daughter
Other books by Sally Britton include:
Rescuing Lord Inglewood, Inglewood Book One
Discovering Grace, Inglewood Book Two
Saving Miss Everly, Inglewood Book Three
The Captain and Miss Winter
His Unexpected Heiress
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
355 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Sally Britton
47 books1,262 followersSally Britton is sixth generation Texan, received her BA in English forever ago, and reads voraciously. She started her writing journey at the tender age of fourteen on an electric typewriter, and she’s never looked back.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
December 23, 2019
This is seventh in a series and characters from the other stories are very present. You'll definitely get more out of this if you have read them and the series is pretty good over all, so that's definitely my recommendation.
It's sad that this doesn't live up to the quality of the rest of the series. It's a novella, so I didn't expect a ton of emotional complexity. But this had even less than I expected. Indeed, so much of the relationship happens in their past friendship that there is pretty much nothing to hang a conflict on. Or, rather, Britton chose a single conflict source and it is deeply unfortunate that it was Robert's sense of being lesser and therefore undeserving—unfortunate because it's nothing but a very poorly justified negative motivation*.
I mean, he's clearly a good man and well-respected and exactly nobody shared his sense that he is beneath Penny. So if he had even an iota of emotional courage, the story would have been a fraction of its already short size. Which would have made it about a thousand times better because then you'd have something to respect about the guy as a romantic partner. Which is a little unfair because he is a steady, capable guy who will provide a secure and supportive home. But the emotional cowardice needed to stretch out a completely unfounded negative motivation undercut his attraction as a romantic lead considerably.
So it was frustrating and about 2½ stars that I can't round up because seriously, it should have been either much shorter or have some other conflict to keep it from dragging like a schoolboy heading to the principle's office. I loved Penny. She was great. Robert would have been great, too, if he weren't a complete coward.
A note about Chaste: Like all Britton's romances, this is a completely chaste read with only a couple of (very appropriate but still wonderful) kisses.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
It's sad that this doesn't live up to the quality of the rest of the series. It's a novella, so I didn't expect a ton of emotional complexity. But this had even less than I expected. Indeed, so much of the relationship happens in their past friendship that there is pretty much nothing to hang a conflict on. Or, rather, Britton chose a single conflict source and it is deeply unfortunate that it was Robert's sense of being lesser and therefore undeserving—unfortunate because it's nothing but a very poorly justified negative motivation*.
I mean, he's clearly a good man and well-respected and exactly nobody shared his sense that he is beneath Penny. So if he had even an iota of emotional courage, the story would have been a fraction of its already short size. Which would have made it about a thousand times better because then you'd have something to respect about the guy as a romantic partner. Which is a little unfair because he is a steady, capable guy who will provide a secure and supportive home. But the emotional cowardice needed to stretch out a completely unfounded negative motivation undercut his attraction as a romantic lead considerably.
So it was frustrating and about 2½ stars that I can't round up because seriously, it should have been either much shorter or have some other conflict to keep it from dragging like a schoolboy heading to the principle's office. I loved Penny. She was great. Robert would have been great, too, if he weren't a complete coward.
A note about Chaste: Like all Britton's romances, this is a completely chaste read with only a couple of (very appropriate but still wonderful) kisses.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
December 22, 2019
This novella is perfect for holiday reading! It feels closer to a novel than short story, I think because of the full arc of the plot and characters. I admired Robert from book six in the Branches of Love series, Courting the Vicar's Daughter, and how he stepped into the role of steward and helped repair much of the damage done by Harry's father and the previous steward. I love when supporting characters get their own story! Robert and Penny are reunited after a long time apart and it was lovely to see their friendship renew. They both harbored feelings for the other in the past, and now that they are in a position to pursue romance, they each feel unworthy of the other, not realizing that they are actually a perfect match in circumstance as well as affection. I thoroughly enjoyed all the Christmas traditions of the era as Penny and Robert fall in love and their friends help them towards their happily ever after.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
May 30, 2020
I’ve been reading and listening to the books in this series and after listening to Lord Devon’s story with his steward, Robert, having little moments in the book, I was delighted that he would have his own story. I kept wondering who the love interest would be for him and I loved that it was his childhood friend and the girl that he always loved but he was separated from due to some life circumstances.
This was a sweet story with misunderstandings and Robert trying to let Penny go from his heart because he felt like he wasn’t good enough for her. And yet he couldn’t remove her from his heart because he truly loved her. He was funny in his anticipation in wanting to see her but then his hesitancy when they were in close proximity. Silly Robert, she has a heart and feelings too. Just ask her. It takes a little bit of time with friends and family stepping in and doing some matchmaking and nudging these two along. But Robert finally comes to realize a few things. I loved his family and friends and their antics. They had me laughing.
I had fun listening to this with the Christmas setting and seeing the different traditions that the author included for these friends, families and neighbors to share.
Content: Clean. A couple sweet kisses.
Happy Reading!!!
This was a sweet story with misunderstandings and Robert trying to let Penny go from his heart because he felt like he wasn’t good enough for her. And yet he couldn’t remove her from his heart because he truly loved her. He was funny in his anticipation in wanting to see her but then his hesitancy when they were in close proximity. Silly Robert, she has a heart and feelings too. Just ask her. It takes a little bit of time with friends and family stepping in and doing some matchmaking and nudging these two along. But Robert finally comes to realize a few things. I loved his family and friends and their antics. They had me laughing.
I had fun listening to this with the Christmas setting and seeing the different traditions that the author included for these friends, families and neighbors to share.
Content: Clean. A couple sweet kisses.
Happy Reading!!!
December 22, 2019
This was a sweet fun Christmas read. Nothing crazy or fancy just a nice easy love story. The old friends who see each other again after a long time and have some issues to get threw before they can be together. I like Sally's writing style and know I am going to get a well written regency romance.
April 8, 2020
I listened to the audiobook of this sweet childhood friends-to-more story that takes place at Christmas. Robert and Penny run into each other when Penny is visiting the town where she grew up. Each realizes that the youthful attraction they felt toward the other is still there. Robert feels unworthy of Penny because he is now a steward instead of a landowner himself, and says foolish things that make Penny think he doesn't care for her, but for someone else.
This is a novella but it didn't really feel like one to me, as the story didn't feel rushed. I also felt this isn't the usual long-time-friends-become-more storyline, because Robert and Penny liked each other as teens but never let the other know. I liked the dual points of view we get in the story, as I like to know what the male character is thinking rather than try to guess. I enjoyed Robert's brothers teasing and wonder if he would've ever told Penny how he felt without some encouragement from them. This novella is part of the Branches of Love series but is written so that it can standalone. This is a sweet holiday story.
This is a novella but it didn't really feel like one to me, as the story didn't feel rushed. I also felt this isn't the usual long-time-friends-become-more storyline, because Robert and Penny liked each other as teens but never let the other know. I liked the dual points of view we get in the story, as I like to know what the male character is thinking rather than try to guess. I enjoyed Robert's brothers teasing and wonder if he would've ever told Penny how he felt without some encouragement from them. This novella is part of the Branches of Love series but is written so that it can standalone. This is a sweet holiday story.
May 15, 2020
This novella was so sweet and heartwarming. I loved seeing Robert and Penny reconnecting and finally having their happy ending. A delightful read.
May 1, 2024
Sweet! Childhood friends to lovers, with likeable, relatable MCs, neither of whom are aristocrats.
January 1, 2020
Sally Britton’s regencies are always delightful, so I was thrilled to hear she was returning to her Branches of Love series, and that we also got to hear the story of Robert, who was a minor character in Courting the Vicar’s Daughter but whom I was very interested in learning more about.
Penny’s Yuletide Wish was a delightful way to grant me that reader wish, especially as it featured my favorite romance trope, friends to lovers. Penny and Robert grew up as childhood friends, but when they’re reunited years later, they quickly discover that their previous deep feelings that they’d secretly harbored for one another not only remain, but have grown. However, due to the misunderstanding that they don’t deserve one another, they continue to not act on their feelings until the magic of the Christmas season grants them a second chance to come together.
Penny and Robert were both great characters—two genuinely good people who had a wonderful friendship. I loved learning about their history together as well as watch their familiar friendship and banter continue as their romance deepened. Their romance was adorable, especially their game of wishes during their dance towards the end of the book. It was also incredibly touching how much the two genuinely selflessly cared for and sought each other’s happiness. They truly embodied true love. It was delightful watching them grow in confidence and gain the courage to show their true feelings.
It was also very fun seeing several familiar characters from the Branches of Love series make an appearance, although one disappointment was that we didn’t see either of my favorite couples, Rebecca and Christian and Ellen and Marcus. Still, the reunions we did have were wonderful, especially with Harry and Daisy.
Overall, Penny’s Yuletide Wish was a delightful and sweet Christmas Regency romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I hope for more in the Branches of Love series. Hopefully, Robert’s brothers will also get their own stories!
Penny’s Yuletide Wish was a delightful way to grant me that reader wish, especially as it featured my favorite romance trope, friends to lovers. Penny and Robert grew up as childhood friends, but when they’re reunited years later, they quickly discover that their previous deep feelings that they’d secretly harbored for one another not only remain, but have grown. However, due to the misunderstanding that they don’t deserve one another, they continue to not act on their feelings until the magic of the Christmas season grants them a second chance to come together.
Penny and Robert were both great characters—two genuinely good people who had a wonderful friendship. I loved learning about their history together as well as watch their familiar friendship and banter continue as their romance deepened. Their romance was adorable, especially their game of wishes during their dance towards the end of the book. It was also incredibly touching how much the two genuinely selflessly cared for and sought each other’s happiness. They truly embodied true love. It was delightful watching them grow in confidence and gain the courage to show their true feelings.
It was also very fun seeing several familiar characters from the Branches of Love series make an appearance, although one disappointment was that we didn’t see either of my favorite couples, Rebecca and Christian and Ellen and Marcus. Still, the reunions we did have were wonderful, especially with Harry and Daisy.
Overall, Penny’s Yuletide Wish was a delightful and sweet Christmas Regency romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I hope for more in the Branches of Love series. Hopefully, Robert’s brothers will also get their own stories!
December 27, 2019
This is a sweet,clean holiday romance novella set in Regency England. I thought it was a wonderful holiday story. I have loved everything by this author I have read so far and I think she did a great job of giving us a wonderful holiday read! This story is about two friends who, after being apart for a while, when they see each other again realize how much they love each other. Really a sweet story and I highly recommend it!
December 20, 2019
Another winner by Sally! Loved it!
December 16, 2021
This was a very sweet, Christmasy novella and I enjoyed it a lot.❤️ I love the best friends-to-lover trope and this one was so sweet!🥰
November 10, 2020
A sweet and Romantic Christmas Novella
Penny's Yuletide Wish by Sally Britton is a sweet historical novella about two old friends reconnecting and finding love.
Penny lost her parents in a carriage accident and had to quit her hometown to live with her uncle and aunt. Seven years later, Penny returned to town to spend Christmas with some friends. She was thrilled to revisit all the places from her childhood, but nothing compared to the happiness of meeting Robert again.
Robert was a neighbor of their estate and a very dear friend. The last time they saw each other, they were still very young, but deep down, Penny knew he meant more than a mere friend to her. Penny was so charming and Robert so adorably shy and insecure. Everybody knew they were in love with each other: everyone but themselves.
The audiobook is three hours long, perfect for listening to in one sitting. The narration is excellent.
This is my second audiobook by Jessica Elisa Boyd. I love how she differentiates the male and female voices and the variety of voice tones that make it easy to identify the many characters.
Penny's Yuletide Wish is a sweet and romantic historical novella perfect for a few hours of peace in a happy place where love blossoms and triumphs. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a small dose of Christmas cheer.
I received a code for this book from the author for an honest review.
Penny's Yuletide Wish by Sally Britton is a sweet historical novella about two old friends reconnecting and finding love.
Penny lost her parents in a carriage accident and had to quit her hometown to live with her uncle and aunt. Seven years later, Penny returned to town to spend Christmas with some friends. She was thrilled to revisit all the places from her childhood, but nothing compared to the happiness of meeting Robert again.
Robert was a neighbor of their estate and a very dear friend. The last time they saw each other, they were still very young, but deep down, Penny knew he meant more than a mere friend to her. Penny was so charming and Robert so adorably shy and insecure. Everybody knew they were in love with each other: everyone but themselves.
The audiobook is three hours long, perfect for listening to in one sitting. The narration is excellent.
This is my second audiobook by Jessica Elisa Boyd. I love how she differentiates the male and female voices and the variety of voice tones that make it easy to identify the many characters.
Penny's Yuletide Wish is a sweet and romantic historical novella perfect for a few hours of peace in a happy place where love blossoms and triumphs. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a small dose of Christmas cheer.
I received a code for this book from the author for an honest review.
January 22, 2024
childhood friends to romance is my FAVORITE. it just is. I can't help it.
this was very cute, I had a lot of fun! not my new favorite by any means, but a solid intro to Sally Britton, and perfectly Christmas-y. 4 stars!
this was very cute, I had a lot of fun! not my new favorite by any means, but a solid intro to Sally Britton, and perfectly Christmas-y. 4 stars!
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December 20, 2021I enjoyed this book a lot! It made me laugh and smile and cheer the characters on. The only thing that was confusing at first was the age of the characters (Penny is 24 years old), but maybe that was just my problem. This was the perfect book to read on a cold winter day, and I think I will be revisiting it sometime soon.
December 21, 2019
This was a sweet enough story with likable characters, but I had a hard time buying that these two characters couldn't just begin a courtship in the regular way instead of sidestepping it delicately...even in the society they live in, no eyebrows were being raised. So I couldn't feel much pity for them while they dithered. Still, the main and the side characters are refreshingly wholesome and kind, which is pleasant to read about.
I received an ARC of this courtesy of the author.
I received an ARC of this courtesy of the author.
December 29, 2019
Really cute winter read!
I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romance. Predictable? Probably. Worth it anyway? Yes! I really enjoyed the two characters, and switching back and forth between their POVs was done well (except for one small part that didn't matter). I was surprised that the title was about Penny, but the first POV we got was Robert's. Interesting decision. It definitely made me root for him.
I have just recently mentioned that I'm getting tired of the trope where the hero and heroine knew each other as kids but didn't think of each other romantically until the hero saw how beautiful the heroine had grown up to be. This book made that trope work because Penny and Robert had already liked each other as young teenagers but never let the other know. When they got a second chance, there was no past unfaithfulness or indiscretion to deal with first. They only needed the courage to risk rejection and show their true feelings.
And the ending was very satisfying, especially the sweet epilogue, though the last chapter was still a great ending in its own right.
The only issue that dropped it down from 5 stars for me was the existence of a few typos. As a proofreader, those things stare me in the face and take me out of the story.
But all in all, a very satisfying end to my holiday romance binge.
Favorite quotes:
“Her aunt saw fire and strength in Penny. Perhaps it was time Penny found it within herself and did something about her wish.”
“Somehow, Robert's brother had turned tactful. He had somehow procured a book and sat with it in such a way that it blocked both Penny and Robert from his view. Penny's eyebrows lifted, and Robert grinned.”
I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romance. Predictable? Probably. Worth it anyway? Yes! I really enjoyed the two characters, and switching back and forth between their POVs was done well (except for one small part that didn't matter). I was surprised that the title was about Penny, but the first POV we got was Robert's. Interesting decision. It definitely made me root for him.
I have just recently mentioned that I'm getting tired of the trope where the hero and heroine knew each other as kids but didn't think of each other romantically until the hero saw how beautiful the heroine had grown up to be. This book made that trope work because Penny and Robert had already liked each other as young teenagers but never let the other know. When they got a second chance, there was no past unfaithfulness or indiscretion to deal with first. They only needed the courage to risk rejection and show their true feelings.
And the ending was very satisfying, especially the sweet epilogue, though the last chapter was still a great ending in its own right.
The only issue that dropped it down from 5 stars for me was the existence of a few typos. As a proofreader, those things stare me in the face and take me out of the story.
But all in all, a very satisfying end to my holiday romance binge.
Favorite quotes:
“Her aunt saw fire and strength in Penny. Perhaps it was time Penny found it within herself and did something about her wish.”
“Somehow, Robert's brother had turned tactful. He had somehow procured a book and sat with it in such a way that it blocked both Penny and Robert from his view. Penny's eyebrows lifted, and Robert grinned.”
July 27, 2022
Nothing says Christmas quite like a Regency holiday romance and this one is unique in that it starts on Christmas Eve and goes through to Epiphany. Love the yuletide details and traditions the author has incorporated into the story. Times were so much simpler back then!
This is very much a doomed-but-not-really-doomed romance. :-) And by that I mean that both Penny and Robert harbour feelings for the other but, a) don't reveal those feelings and b) are certain the other doesn't feel the same way. So we have lots of pining looks across the ballroom and befuddled conversations that lead to misunderstandings and there's always that yearning for what one knows one can never have! Swoon!
It would get tiresome in a full-length novel, but works wonderfully well in this shorter novella length story. Keeps the tension taut and the reader on edge. And I loved the teasing and banter between Robert and his brothers! Nice lighthearted moments to sooth the unrequited love ones. :-)
This book just plain made me happy and put me in a festive mood despite the fact that I read (listened) to it in the middle of a July heatwave!
Penny's Yuletide Wish is the seventh book in the Branches of Love series but reads fine as a standalone. I've only read one other book in the series and I had no problems diving into this one.
I listened to the audible edition narrated by Jessica Elisa Boyd and enjoyed my visit to Regency England very much.
This is very much a doomed-but-not-really-doomed romance. :-) And by that I mean that both Penny and Robert harbour feelings for the other but, a) don't reveal those feelings and b) are certain the other doesn't feel the same way. So we have lots of pining looks across the ballroom and befuddled conversations that lead to misunderstandings and there's always that yearning for what one knows one can never have! Swoon!
It would get tiresome in a full-length novel, but works wonderfully well in this shorter novella length story. Keeps the tension taut and the reader on edge. And I loved the teasing and banter between Robert and his brothers! Nice lighthearted moments to sooth the unrequited love ones. :-)
This book just plain made me happy and put me in a festive mood despite the fact that I read (listened) to it in the middle of a July heatwave!
Penny's Yuletide Wish is the seventh book in the Branches of Love series but reads fine as a standalone. I've only read one other book in the series and I had no problems diving into this one.
I listened to the audible edition narrated by Jessica Elisa Boyd and enjoyed my visit to Regency England very much.
November 14, 2024
While I love the premise (friends from childhood to lovers) and liked the ending of this book, it fell a little shorter than most of Brittons other books in my opinion.
The story pacing seemed a little to fast and slow at times. In certain instances I wanted more, others less. But the biggest hold up for me was the fact that the whole "drama or conflict" in the book is because the two leads can't just have one 5 minute conversation to figure everything out. While I do understand that in relationships, especially early stage romantic ones, there is a lot of guessing, trying not to step on toes, or divulging too much information to not be hurt if rejected, this story still felt a little to flat. It is a novella length novel, so perhaps that plays into it.
I don't think I'd read this one again, maybe in a number of years. But it was a clean sweet read! And the epilogue was sooooo cute!
Content Warnings: mild to moderate kissing, nothing graphic or spicy. I would let a 14-16+ year old read this.
The story pacing seemed a little to fast and slow at times. In certain instances I wanted more, others less. But the biggest hold up for me was the fact that the whole "drama or conflict" in the book is because the two leads can't just have one 5 minute conversation to figure everything out. While I do understand that in relationships, especially early stage romantic ones, there is a lot of guessing, trying not to step on toes, or divulging too much information to not be hurt if rejected, this story still felt a little to flat. It is a novella length novel, so perhaps that plays into it.
I don't think I'd read this one again, maybe in a number of years. But it was a clean sweet read! And the epilogue was sooooo cute!
Content Warnings: mild to moderate kissing, nothing graphic or spicy. I would let a 14-16+ year old read this.
November 24, 2021
With this offering, Sally Britton has earned a five-star award from me thirteen consecutive times. Penelope (Penny) Clark and Robert Ellsworth grew up together as fast friends who felt the beginnings of a blossoming romance. When Penny’s parents died in a carriage accident, she was taken in by her aunt and uncle and moved away from her childhood friend. Now, about seven years later, Penny, with her aunt and uncle, has returned for a fortnight Christmas visit. When Penny and Robert meet again, they each feel the pull of their childhood romance. However, both also have reason to believe they cannot pick up where they left off. Penny cannot think that Robert still has feelings for her, and Robert believes that because he is only a steward, he is unworthy of Penny. I enjoyed how Ms. Britton kept me glued to my iPad as Penny and Robert came to realize that what they felt for each other before Penny moved away could blossom once again as adults. Five Stars!
December 15, 2024
A sweet Christmas book by Sally Britton. I always love Sally’s books. She can be counted on for good writing, great characters, and a story that moves along. In this story, Penny has gone back to her childhood home town and becomes reacquainted with her childhood friend/crush Robert. Their circumstances have both changed, he now being a steward and her about to become a schoolteacher. If you read my reviews, you know the plot device I hate the most is when two characters love each other, but don’t realize their love is returned. There’s a bit of that going on, but Sally handles it well. The narration was perfect. Overall, a great Christmas read!
December 17, 2019
I am a big fan of Sally Britton's books. The Branches of Love series has been a lot of fun to read. They are meaningful, cleanly written, and always leave you with a smile on your face.
Penny's Yuletide Wish is no different. It is a perfect holiday read with just the right amount of warm fuzzy feeling that a proper regency romance should always offer. :)
Penny's Yuletide Wish is no different. It is a perfect holiday read with just the right amount of warm fuzzy feeling that a proper regency romance should always offer. :)
November 27, 2022
Cute novella tie-in to the main series.
December 13, 2024
A sweet regency romance, but nothing that really stood out. I do love it when friends become more.
Note: This is clean fiction, not Christian fiction (I knew that going into it).
Note: This is clean fiction, not Christian fiction (I knew that going into it).
August 6, 2021
Sweet
This is a sweet novella.
Penny and Robert's story is full of misunderstandings.
Sally Britton has written a beautiful story.
This is a sweet novella.
Penny and Robert's story is full of misunderstandings.
Sally Britton has written a beautiful story.
November 7, 2021
2.5 Stars. I’m tired of “he might not like me” reason for not doing things. Another reviewer called it negative motivation. I like that definition. What really bothered me was that they were both using the same negative motivation in a story that takes place over two weeks. Throw in an illness and nothing moves the story along. I foresee a very indecisive future for these two characters.
December 24, 2019
This Regency novella set during the Christmas season is a fun quick read that follows the love story of a side character found in the Branches of Love series. Robert Ellsworth is Mr. Harry Devon's steward and while he is a gentleman, he doesn't find his current situation offering much in terms of supporting the woman he loves. Miss Penny Clark, Robert's dearest childhood friend, has suddenly returned to the village after years of being away. The two of them have loved each other practically their entire lives, but without daring to dream of such love being returned. This story is full of misunderstandings based on good intentions as the two try to guarantee the other will be happy. The most enjoyable part for me was the wishing game as they dance*sigh*. Another well done novel by author Sally Britton, I'd recommend it to all those who are fans of sweet, clean Regency romance. 4.5 stars.
August 16, 2021
Meh. This one was just okay for me. I suppose the series has played out.
October 3, 2020
I loved this sweet romance between two childhood friends that were parted due to the death of Penny’s parents. It was also fun seeing characters from other books in the series. I have read three of the other 8 books in the series. I first remember Robert being introduced in Courting the Vicar’s daughter. He becomes the steward of Harry Devon. Harry becomes not only Roberts employer but somewhat of a friend as well. This book was also fun as it took place around the Christmas holidays.
This is the second time reading this book. First time actually reading it and this time listening to it. I have enjoyed all of Sally’s books and it is fun to listen to this after it has been several months. It is a cute Christmas friends to lovers romance.
This is the second time reading this book. First time actually reading it and this time listening to it. I have enjoyed all of Sally’s books and it is fun to listen to this after it has been several months. It is a cute Christmas friends to lovers romance.
December 20, 2019
I love the Branches of Love series and it was so fun to revisit it in this sweet Christmas novella. It took me a little while to place Robert, but once I did I was so happy to read his story. I love the relationship he and Penny had and how easy it was to rekindle that friendship in some ways after so many years apart. Penny and Robert are such sweet good people and I love that they got their HEA. I had thought this series was over, but now I can see a few more that will hopefully be added to this great series.
December 24, 2019
This sweet Christmas novella is a wonderful addition to Sally's Branches of Love series. Robert and Penny reconnect after years apart and though both yearn to voice their true feelings, they each have reasons for hesitating. Sweet story of two genuine people finding happiness with each other that will give you all the Christmas romance feels.
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