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The Wicked Winters #2
Wedded in Winter
Beatrix Winter has no wish to marry any of the lords her brother has in mind for her. There is only one man she has ever desired, but as her overbearing brother’s loyal right-hand man, Merrick Hart has never spared her a glance.
When the entire Winter family departs to celebrate Christmas in the country, unintentionally leaving Beatrix behind, Merrick reluctantly agrees to escort her to her brother’s estate. But despite the winter’s unusual cold, their journey quickly becomes heated. Beatrix is the one temptation Merrick has always managed to resist, but a man can only endure so much time alone with the woman he has been secretly longing for before he takes what he wants…
Note: Previously published in the collection Once Upon A Christmas Wedding. This version contains a bonus epilogue never before published.
Length: Novella
Heat Level: Scorching Hot!
When the entire Winter family departs to celebrate Christmas in the country, unintentionally leaving Beatrix behind, Merrick reluctantly agrees to escort her to her brother’s estate. But despite the winter’s unusual cold, their journey quickly becomes heated. Beatrix is the one temptation Merrick has always managed to resist, but a man can only endure so much time alone with the woman he has been secretly longing for before he takes what he wants…
Note: Previously published in the collection Once Upon A Christmas Wedding. This version contains a bonus epilogue never before published.
Length: Novella
Heat Level: Scorching Hot!
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2019
1458 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Scott
121 books1,563 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Scarlett Scott writes steamy Victorian and Regency historical romances with strong, intelligent heroines and sexy alpha heroes. She lives in Pennsylvania and Maryland with her Canadian husband, their adorable identical twins, a demanding diva dog, and one zany cat.
For Scarlett's latest releases, exclusive excerpts, contests and more, visit her website, http://www.scarlettscottauthor.com
For Scarlett's latest releases, exclusive excerpts, contests and more, visit her website, http://www.scarlettscottauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
March 25, 2024
My first story by Scarlett Scott. I enjoyed it for the most part and read it in one sitting.
The first half of the story was 5-stars. Both H and h had been secretly in love with each other. The hero was the bff of the heroine’s older brother.
The heroine was a sunshine, happy girl that decided to just go for it and plant a kiss on the hero. And another, and another…constantly teasing him in a cute way.
The hero was a serious, stoic yet kind-hearted guy who tried his darn best to resist his feelings. That was what I loved about the first half, her pursuing, him trying to resist, the accidentally kisses….
But once the scene at the roadway inn was over, I felt it lost all of the angsty charm and steam. Became too lovey dovey and the rest of their secret kisses was glossed over with a paragraph stating something like ‘the last two weeks were filled with secret kisses, etc’. I do not approve of that 😤
Then the wedding took place… and I just lost interest by that last chapter. 😭😭😭
The first half of the story was 5-stars. Both H and h had been secretly in love with each other. The hero was the bff of the heroine’s older brother.
The heroine was a sunshine, happy girl that decided to just go for it and plant a kiss on the hero. And another, and another…constantly teasing him in a cute way.
The hero was a serious, stoic yet kind-hearted guy who tried his darn best to resist his feelings. That was what I loved about the first half, her pursuing, him trying to resist, the accidentally kisses….
But once the scene at the roadway inn was over, I felt it lost all of the angsty charm and steam. Became too lovey dovey and the rest of their secret kisses was glossed over with a paragraph stating something like ‘the last two weeks were filled with secret kisses, etc’. I do not approve of that 😤
Then the wedding took place… and I just lost interest by that last chapter. 😭😭😭
September 3, 2021
3 Stars
A good follow-up instalment in the Wicked Winters series. This review is proving difficult to pen as there is nothing for me to rant about nor is there anything to gush over.
For the lack of a better word, I am going to call it flat-lined. This novella was good but not great, fun-ish but not hilarious, sensual but not sexy, the characters were unique but not overly captivating. I think you get the drift. Even the title is simple, I am desperately trying to avoid calling it bland because it wasn't, this novella just lacked an oomph factor.
What I liked
The simplicity of the plot, characters & romance. That the hero was not an aristocrat and that the heroine wanted to work as a midwife. A great thread when the heroine has a job apart from the tired governess/housekeeper trope.
What did not work for me
Unfortunately, the story & the characters lacked depth. I could not emotionally connect. It may not necessarily be a bad thing, reading from an indifferent point of view just distant.
One teensy bit of historical inaccuracy - The house party is to be hosted in Abingdon Hall, the country seat of Emilia's father the Duke of Abingdon, makes it a ducal seat meaning it's entailed and cannot be sold, thus Devereaux however wealthy cannot own it, there is a reference of Dev owning it.
The Plot
I am running out of synonyms for bland/flat/simple. It was not very exciting. Beatrix, the youngest Winter sibling is forgotten in London when her family leaves to host a house party in the country, a homage to Home Alone. Merrick Hart, a business associate/friend of Dev Winter is house sitting and finds Bea in the townhouse, quite alone & unchaperoned as the servants are on a Christmas break. He decides to deliver her to her family. The problem? They both like each other but cannot act upon it because Dev wants Bea to marry a lord & also Dev will kill Merrick. Some sensual encounters, goading banter, road trip, more goading banter, one-bed trope, Dev finds out, they get engaged, they declare their love, HEA.
Again, there was nothing wrong with this story but nothing too gripping either. But I have to say that it has been quite a few books since I found the one-bed trope and I did enjoy it!
The Hero
A plain but good looking (obviously) working-class hero with a concept of the reality of circumstance and situation. I liked that his friendship with Dev meant a lot to him. He should be awarded for his self-control in resisting Bea's seduction attempts. An open-minded guy with zero qualms about his lady love working. Contemporary brownie points for not being a femi-nazi.
The Heroine
An independent character, Bea was a fascinating juxtaposition of innocent in behaviour and of maturity in thought. She is unabashed, honest to a great extent and does what she wants, overbearing family & society be damned.
A likeable novella that sadly just fell shy of being loveable. No matter, bring on the next Winter!
A good follow-up instalment in the Wicked Winters series. This review is proving difficult to pen as there is nothing for me to rant about nor is there anything to gush over.
For the lack of a better word, I am going to call it flat-lined. This novella was good but not great, fun-ish but not hilarious, sensual but not sexy, the characters were unique but not overly captivating. I think you get the drift. Even the title is simple, I am desperately trying to avoid calling it bland because it wasn't, this novella just lacked an oomph factor.
What I liked
The simplicity of the plot, characters & romance. That the hero was not an aristocrat and that the heroine wanted to work as a midwife. A great thread when the heroine has a job apart from the tired governess/housekeeper trope.
What did not work for me
Unfortunately, the story & the characters lacked depth. I could not emotionally connect. It may not necessarily be a bad thing, reading from an indifferent point of view just distant.
One teensy bit of historical inaccuracy - The house party is to be hosted in Abingdon Hall, the country seat of Emilia's father the Duke of Abingdon, makes it a ducal seat meaning it's entailed and cannot be sold, thus Devereaux however wealthy cannot own it, there is a reference of Dev owning it.
The Plot
I am running out of synonyms for bland/flat/simple. It was not very exciting. Beatrix, the youngest Winter sibling is forgotten in London when her family leaves to host a house party in the country, a homage to Home Alone. Merrick Hart, a business associate/friend of Dev Winter is house sitting and finds Bea in the townhouse, quite alone & unchaperoned as the servants are on a Christmas break. He decides to deliver her to her family. The problem? They both like each other but cannot act upon it because Dev wants Bea to marry a lord & also Dev will kill Merrick. Some sensual encounters, goading banter, road trip, more goading banter, one-bed trope, Dev finds out, they get engaged, they declare their love, HEA.
Again, there was nothing wrong with this story but nothing too gripping either. But I have to say that it has been quite a few books since I found the one-bed trope and I did enjoy it!
The Hero
A plain but good looking (obviously) working-class hero with a concept of the reality of circumstance and situation. I liked that his friendship with Dev meant a lot to him. He should be awarded for his self-control in resisting Bea's seduction attempts. An open-minded guy with zero qualms about his lady love working. Contemporary brownie points for not being a femi-nazi.
The Heroine
An independent character, Bea was a fascinating juxtaposition of innocent in behaviour and of maturity in thought. She is unabashed, honest to a great extent and does what she wants, overbearing family & society be damned.
A likeable novella that sadly just fell shy of being loveable. No matter, bring on the next Winter!
March 9, 2020
Bea and Merrick's story....enjoyable entry to this series with lots o love scenes.
January 5, 2021
Merrick Hart and Beatrix Winter are trapped together alone for 2 days. Well we know what happens when a scandal is brewing they must marry!! Or the Ton will ripe them apart.
Both H/H are likeable. The story is sensual but not overly sexual!! Enjoyable Quick Read!!
Both H/H are likeable. The story is sensual but not overly sexual!! Enjoyable Quick Read!!
December 8, 2020
Excellent. This second book in the Wicked Winters series was such a lovely albeit short read.
Merrick Hart is such an honorable man who tries so hard to honor his pledge never to act on his attraction for his employer’s sister. But Beatrix Winter is a determined young lady who has been in love with Merrick for years and pushes her shy, stubborn man to the breaking point.
I loved Bea and Merrick. Bea didn’t want to to marry a lord as her brother decreed. She wanted a man who would support and live her as she continue to pursue learning to be a midwife. Poor Merrick never stood a chance against the youngest Winter. Great read, I love this series so far and so happy to have discovered a new author.
Merrick Hart is such an honorable man who tries so hard to honor his pledge never to act on his attraction for his employer’s sister. But Beatrix Winter is a determined young lady who has been in love with Merrick for years and pushes her shy, stubborn man to the breaking point.
I loved Bea and Merrick. Bea didn’t want to to marry a lord as her brother decreed. She wanted a man who would support and live her as she continue to pursue learning to be a midwife. Poor Merrick never stood a chance against the youngest Winter. Great read, I love this series so far and so happy to have discovered a new author.
November 25, 2020
I was hoping for more hot and steamy intimate scenes.
Nevertheless, I did appreciate the hero's willpower to not be seduced by our young heroine. It was kind of fun to read about it. Oh, I believe there's a 10-year age gap (18 vs. 38 if I recall correctly).
Nevertheless, I did appreciate the hero's willpower to not be seduced by our young heroine. It was kind of fun to read about it. Oh, I believe there's a 10-year age gap (18 vs. 38 if I recall correctly).
November 10, 2021
Beatrix WINTER IS COMING ❄
L O V E D this smashingly sensual book. The writing is gorgeous, the plot is engaging, the steaminess and romance are sublime.
A feisty heroine who knows her own mind + a sturdy, working man Hero = yes please! Beautiful dialogue between MC's and secondary characters.
📚 Short in length, but deep in depth.
I'm adoring this series so far...it's just perfect.
Highly recommend! ❄💕
L O V E D this smashingly sensual book. The writing is gorgeous, the plot is engaging, the steaminess and romance are sublime.
A feisty heroine who knows her own mind + a sturdy, working man Hero = yes please! Beautiful dialogue between MC's and secondary characters.
📚 Short in length, but deep in depth.
I'm adoring this series so far...it's just perfect.
Highly recommend! ❄💕
August 14, 2020
This the second book in Scarlett Scott's the Wicked Winters, Wedded in Winter was in some parts a nice story to read. As Merrick made his entrance in the first book by becoming captivated with Beatrix, thus this is their story.
I liked how the story began, however became a bit tired of the cat and mouse play by Beatrix on her whereabouts with Merrick. He was really trying to be the gentleman he was, coming from a disappointed background and becoming the man he was at that time. Dev was a bit overbearing as he was in the first book. I thought it was a bit slow and boring in some parts, although there was a lot of chemistry and intimate play between the characters.
I liked how the story began, however became a bit tired of the cat and mouse play by Beatrix on her whereabouts with Merrick. He was really trying to be the gentleman he was, coming from a disappointed background and becoming the man he was at that time. Dev was a bit overbearing as he was in the first book. I thought it was a bit slow and boring in some parts, although there was a lot of chemistry and intimate play between the characters.
January 14, 2020
Head of the family, Devereaux Winter’s goal is to find noble husbands for his five beautiful, but headstrong sisters. The “Wicked Winters” are very rich but they have a bad reputation for scandalous behavior. The ton shuns them at every opportunity. Each sister comes with a large dowry, but Dev wants to ensure they are each wed to a man who is not just in it for the money.
Beatrix Winter is the youngest. She is very independent and she just wants to become a midwife. Unfortunately, this is not a profession very befitting of a lady! Dev forbids Bea from pursuing her goal, but she disobeys him anyway. In doing so, Bea misses leaving the carriage with her family to spend the Christmas holiday at their country estate. This leaves her in the care of Dev’s right hand man, Merrick.
Merrick has always carried a torch for Bea but he believes he is not good enough for her. In turn, Bea has always pined for Merrick. Bea arrives home bloody from attending a birth. The two find themselves alone in the townhouse. Merrick does everything he can to resist Bea. Can he hold out?
Will Merrick be able to convince Dev that he is not simply trying to woo Bea for her dowry? Will Bea realize that Merrick is the only one for her? Will Dev react reasonably, or will he pummel Merrick to a pulp for his betrayal?
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
Beatrix Winter is the youngest. She is very independent and she just wants to become a midwife. Unfortunately, this is not a profession very befitting of a lady! Dev forbids Bea from pursuing her goal, but she disobeys him anyway. In doing so, Bea misses leaving the carriage with her family to spend the Christmas holiday at their country estate. This leaves her in the care of Dev’s right hand man, Merrick.
Merrick has always carried a torch for Bea but he believes he is not good enough for her. In turn, Bea has always pined for Merrick. Bea arrives home bloody from attending a birth. The two find themselves alone in the townhouse. Merrick does everything he can to resist Bea. Can he hold out?
Will Merrick be able to convince Dev that he is not simply trying to woo Bea for her dowry? Will Bea realize that Merrick is the only one for her? Will Dev react reasonably, or will he pummel Merrick to a pulp for his betrayal?
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
March 14, 2020
Beatrix Winter knows her brother Dev means well and only wants to give their family the respectability all their money can't buy, but she has no desire to marry some foppish lord. She's only ever wanted one man: Merrick Hart, her brother's right-hand man who has never even noticed her.
When Bea is unintentionally left behind when her entire family departs London to spend Christmas in the country, Merrick is the only one around to see her safely to her brother. Merrick has long fought his attraction to Beatrix, but he can only take so much time spent alone with her before he gives in.
I loved this book. It's definitely my favorite of this series thus far. I loved that Beatrix knew exactly what she wanted and went after it, despite being young and underestimated for it. Merrick was delightfully strong and gruff and trying so hard to remain honorable. He was just adorable. Merrick treated Bea so well and I'm glad her brother was sensible enough to recognize his true feelings for her. Plus one room one bed was a key trope here and I'm a sucker for it. I'm really loving this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
When Bea is unintentionally left behind when her entire family departs London to spend Christmas in the country, Merrick is the only one around to see her safely to her brother. Merrick has long fought his attraction to Beatrix, but he can only take so much time spent alone with her before he gives in.
I loved this book. It's definitely my favorite of this series thus far. I loved that Beatrix knew exactly what she wanted and went after it, despite being young and underestimated for it. Merrick was delightfully strong and gruff and trying so hard to remain honorable. He was just adorable. Merrick treated Bea so well and I'm glad her brother was sensible enough to recognize his true feelings for her. Plus one room one bed was a key trope here and I'm a sucker for it. I'm really loving this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 24, 2020
Wedded in Winter is the second book in Scarlett Scott’s Wicked Winters series, but it works perfectly fine as a standalone novel. I read it as a standalone novel, and it worked perfectly fine – although, I am now curious about the first book. Not because I’m missing details, but because I’m curious about the details.
Although a four-star rating, it wasn’t the strongest four-star rating I have given the author. I was hooked from the start, desperate to see how everything came together, but I would have liked a wee bit more. This is mostly because I prefer full-length stories over short stories, and I would have enjoyed a little more from some of the details. As it was, it was fun and enjoyable, but it didn’t quite have the depth I usually find in the author’s work.
Nevertheless, Wedded in Winter was a fun read in the Wicked Winters series.
Although a four-star rating, it wasn’t the strongest four-star rating I have given the author. I was hooked from the start, desperate to see how everything came together, but I would have liked a wee bit more. This is mostly because I prefer full-length stories over short stories, and I would have enjoyed a little more from some of the details. As it was, it was fun and enjoyable, but it didn’t quite have the depth I usually find in the author’s work.
Nevertheless, Wedded in Winter was a fun read in the Wicked Winters series.
June 16, 2020
A quick, fun read that really made me want to finish the series.
October 30, 2023
2.5
Unfortunately this one was just too slow and boring. The age gap was ick too, especially with him lusting after her since she was 16.
I don’t actually know how they fell in love since they never really talked and only antagonized one another.
It did have potential; Bea being left behind like an 1800s Home Alone was such a great premise but nothing came of that. The two of them stuck in the townhome would have been quite entertaining. Much more than riding separately a carriage.
I enjoy the characters in Scott’s books,and the ideas, but they just keep falling a little flat. They’re almost there but something is missing, something that adds just a hint more depth to the story.
Unfortunately this one was just too slow and boring. The age gap was ick too, especially with him lusting after her since she was 16.
I don’t actually know how they fell in love since they never really talked and only antagonized one another.
It did have potential; Bea being left behind like an 1800s Home Alone was such a great premise but nothing came of that. The two of them stuck in the townhome would have been quite entertaining. Much more than riding separately a carriage.
I enjoy the characters in Scott’s books,and the ideas, but they just keep falling a little flat. They’re almost there but something is missing, something that adds just a hint more depth to the story.
October 3, 2022
3 Stars.
There is nothing to rant or to gush over.
It's an enjoyable quick read.
Novellas are always tough, because they leave so much out.
There is nothing to rant or to gush over.
It's an enjoyable quick read.
Novellas are always tough, because they leave so much out.
January 13, 2020
WEDDED IN WINTER (in the anthology ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS WEDDING; in this version, there is a bonus epilogue) was my introduction to Scarlett Scott's writing and what an introduction it was! Scarlett Scott's magnificent, lush, luminous prose left me nearly speechless! What a joy to discover such a brilliant author!
WEDDED IN WINTER is a frothy, flirty, delectable Regency romance that flows like weightless silk and delicate lace. Merrick and Beatrix are delightful, charming, utterly irresistible, and so perfect for each other that I read in giddy anticipation to see them together forever. The novella is angst-free, filled with such playful and witty banter that I laughed out loud several times; Bea is priceless, and Merrick entertainingly very chivalrous. The sexual tension between Merrick and Beatrix jumps off the page; it's all subtle sensuality, and it's perfectly delicious.
But dear readers, the writing! Oh, the writing! It is dazzling, spectacular, marvellous, sublime, divine... This is a book that needs to be savoured like the most delicate and rare sweets. Scarlett Scott writes so incredibly well that I believe she could write an entire romance novel out of a phone book entry because of her extraordinary ability to make her characters come to life (Dev! I swear, his power is so evident that I think I shrank back from my ereader a little!) and describe the most mundane details with such clarity and precision, and the sheer beauty of her written words.
I'm in love!
WEDDED IN WINTER is a frothy, flirty, delectable Regency romance that flows like weightless silk and delicate lace. Merrick and Beatrix are delightful, charming, utterly irresistible, and so perfect for each other that I read in giddy anticipation to see them together forever. The novella is angst-free, filled with such playful and witty banter that I laughed out loud several times; Bea is priceless, and Merrick entertainingly very chivalrous. The sexual tension between Merrick and Beatrix jumps off the page; it's all subtle sensuality, and it's perfectly delicious.
But dear readers, the writing! Oh, the writing! It is dazzling, spectacular, marvellous, sublime, divine... This is a book that needs to be savoured like the most delicate and rare sweets. Scarlett Scott writes so incredibly well that I believe she could write an entire romance novel out of a phone book entry because of her extraordinary ability to make her characters come to life (Dev! I swear, his power is so evident that I think I shrank back from my ereader a little!) and describe the most mundane details with such clarity and precision, and the sheer beauty of her written words.
I'm in love!
January 12, 2020
Starring Beatrix (Bea) Winter and Merrick Hart. Enemies to lovers... unrequited love... overprotective older brother’s friend.... working class hero.... yasss to all of that!!
God bless a strong-willed heroine and the hero that tries (and fails) to resist her. Omg Bea and Merrick made my heart clench... my toes curl... and my eyes leak with many wonderful ugly cry tears!! I absolutely loooooved their road to HEA.
I read this story as part of the ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS WEDDING ANTHOLOGY.... and it gave me the most intense book hangover EVER!! And it totally made me feel the same amazeballs feelings re-reading it again with the BONUS epilogue. This, y’all.... THIIIIIIIIS is the reason why Scarlett Scott is on my keeper shelf. I’ve totally added this story to my “Annual Holiday Reads” list... Le sigh.
My Star System: 5 Stars
5 stars: Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were amazing. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will be re-reading this story over and over and over again!!
God bless a strong-willed heroine and the hero that tries (and fails) to resist her. Omg Bea and Merrick made my heart clench... my toes curl... and my eyes leak with many wonderful ugly cry tears!! I absolutely loooooved their road to HEA.
I read this story as part of the ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS WEDDING ANTHOLOGY.... and it gave me the most intense book hangover EVER!! And it totally made me feel the same amazeballs feelings re-reading it again with the BONUS epilogue. This, y’all.... THIIIIIIIIS is the reason why Scarlett Scott is on my keeper shelf. I’ve totally added this story to my “Annual Holiday Reads” list... Le sigh.
My Star System: 5 Stars
5 stars: Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were amazing. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will be re-reading this story over and over and over again!!
January 13, 2020
This book is a continuation of the Winter family, but you do not have to read the other Winter stories to enjoy this book. Bea is the youngest sibling, the baby of the family. Merrick is employed by Bea’s brother, his right-hand man. Merrick tries to keep a distance between him and Bea, he has been fighting his feelings for 2 years for her because he works for her over protective brother and he feels he is too old and not right for her. Circumstances happen which causes Bea to be left alone with only Merrick to watch her and bring her to her family. Bea and Merrick are meant for each other, and this is their story of them finally letting their feelings grow, it is a wonderful love story written so good and smooth, I read this story in one setting.
December 5, 2020
4.5 STARS
I purchased this as part of a multi author bundle called ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS WEDDING
Loved how this unfolded. I enjoyed the strength of the h and how the H knew his place because of their class distinction.
They've had feelings for each other but haven't expressed it to anyone. There is foreplay prior to marriage and actual lovemaking within marriage heat level 5 out of 5. I felt a connection to this couple, so it was filled with love and passion.
My only question is how did her family leave their home and not know she was missing? Also, how did the brother find them?
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and spice. (ljb)
I purchased this as part of a multi author bundle called ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS WEDDING
Loved how this unfolded. I enjoyed the strength of the h and how the H knew his place because of their class distinction.
They've had feelings for each other but haven't expressed it to anyone. There is foreplay prior to marriage and actual lovemaking within marriage heat level 5 out of 5. I felt a connection to this couple, so it was filled with love and passion.
My only question is how did her family leave their home and not know she was missing? Also, how did the brother find them?
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and spice. (ljb)
January 13, 2020
Excellent story. Beatrix, along with all the Winter sisters, is expected to marry a lord. Merrick is Bea's brother's right hand man, and despite his attraction, knows he is not meant for her. Forced to travel together, it becomes exceedingly difficult to maintain their distance. This is a re-publish with a very enjoyable added 2nd epilogue.
January 13, 2020
I did enjoy this story about the youngest of the Winter sisters, Beatrix (or Bea) and her brother, Dev’s right hand man, Merrick Hart. Bea has been attracted to Merrick for some time but he doesn’t appear to reciprocate the feelings. There is a mystery as to where Bea has been disappearing to, at night. Bea has always been quite bold. Bea and Merrick find themselves travelling to the houseparty together. They find themselves in a tricky situation. What will happen if Dev should find out! Dev is very protective of all his sisters. Dev wants all his sister’s to marry a titled gentleman. I’m looking forward to reading about the other sisters in the family.
April 6, 2020
I previously read this novella as part of an anthology. I loved it so much that I couldn't just skip over it while starting the series to book 1. Beatrix is the youngest Winter sister and known for her impetuousness. Merrick Hart is the right hand man to Bea's elder brother. The forbidden "I want my best friend's sister" trope is well executed here, with delicious sexual tension. I loved Merrick and Bea equally. Bea was an innocent, but by no means a shrinking violet. I loved that SHE pursued what she wanted without shame. She wanted Merrick and was determined to crack through his austere demeanor. Merrick did his best to fight his feelings, but the poor man wanted Beatrix too badly. He never stood a chance.
On to book 3! I've been enjoying these light, quick reads and can't wait to see what's next for the rest of the Winter clan.
On to book 3! I've been enjoying these light, quick reads and can't wait to see what's next for the rest of the Winter clan.
May 11, 2020
Alas, poor Merrick, I knew him well. What? I got the name wrong you say? No, his name was Merrick. Ah, you think I should apologize to The Bard for stealing his thunder. Nope, he's long dead. Besides, I like the term "creative license". A lot.
Poor Merrick, son of a drunk, a factory worker, and friend and trusted confidant of Dev Winter, the brother of these five Winter sisters, has absolutely no clue how far down the rabbit hole he fell when he began to have feelings for Miss Beatrix Winter, Bea for short (or as she says, pretend you're talking to a bee).
This is one love affair that is being driven by Beatrix. There is no doubt that both of them are in love, but there's a lot of doubt if Merrick will allow it to happen. He has convinced himself that she's too young, doesn't know her mind, and is just too innocent for the likes of him, is of a higher class than he is, etc. etc. Little does he know, his little hoyden is going to pull out all the stops in her pursuance of Merrick. Alas, Merrick, you had no chance.
I enjoyed this book immensely. If you get a chance, load it up on KU and get in the carriage for a great ride through the countryside, and some steaminess too!
Poor Merrick, son of a drunk, a factory worker, and friend and trusted confidant of Dev Winter, the brother of these five Winter sisters, has absolutely no clue how far down the rabbit hole he fell when he began to have feelings for Miss Beatrix Winter, Bea for short (or as she says, pretend you're talking to a bee).
This is one love affair that is being driven by Beatrix. There is no doubt that both of them are in love, but there's a lot of doubt if Merrick will allow it to happen. He has convinced himself that she's too young, doesn't know her mind, and is just too innocent for the likes of him, is of a higher class than he is, etc. etc. Little does he know, his little hoyden is going to pull out all the stops in her pursuance of Merrick. Alas, Merrick, you had no chance.
I enjoyed this book immensely. If you get a chance, load it up on KU and get in the carriage for a great ride through the countryside, and some steaminess too!
September 26, 2022
*heavy sigh*
These type of books (short and steamy) I finish in a couple of days.... usually. This book took me ages to finish, or rather NOT finish. I made it slowly-slowly to the 75% mark and then that thing happened that I hate it whenever it appears in the book: the moment a person suddenly realizes they are in love miliseconds after the the other person confesses.
- I love you
- Omg. Now that you said it, I realize I love you too....
not the actual conversation but you get the jist-
*rolling eyes so hard they can see my brain*
I'm calling bullshit.
Beatrix and Merrick longed and wanted each other for years. YEARS! But none of them knew it was love!? Really now!?
Anyway. After the 75% mark I skipped to the last paragraph. You can say I DNF at 75% but I was so close to the end, I didn't want to feel defeated (I was trying to read it for so long, you see!). I can't believe I chose to skip the only sex scenes in the book but it's true what they say; there is first time for everything.
This one was a no for me but I won't drop the series. The other 2 I read I actually enjoyed so I'll continue it and fingers crossed.
These type of books (short and steamy) I finish in a couple of days.... usually. This book took me ages to finish, or rather NOT finish. I made it slowly-slowly to the 75% mark and then that thing happened that I hate it whenever it appears in the book: the moment a person suddenly realizes they are in love miliseconds after the the other person confesses.
- I love you
- Omg. Now that you said it, I realize I love you too....
not the actual conversation but you get the jist-
*rolling eyes so hard they can see my brain*
I'm calling bullshit.
Beatrix and Merrick longed and wanted each other for years. YEARS! But none of them knew it was love!? Really now!?
Anyway. After the 75% mark I skipped to the last paragraph. You can say I DNF at 75% but I was so close to the end, I didn't want to feel defeated (I was trying to read it for so long, you see!). I can't believe I chose to skip the only sex scenes in the book but it's true what they say; there is first time for everything.
This one was a no for me but I won't drop the series. The other 2 I read I actually enjoyed so I'll continue it and fingers crossed.
January 13, 2020
Beatrix Winter doesn't want to marry a lord but has desired her brother’s loyal right-hand man, Merrick Hart for years but he’s never spared her a glance. When her family departs to celebrate Christmas in the country, unintentionally leaving Bea behind, Merrick agrees to escort her. Bea is the one temptation Merrick has always resisted, but a man can only endure so much time alone with the woman he has been secretly longing for.
A love story of unrequited love from both parties, their journey to Emilia’s country house is funny, sexy, heart wrenching & unputdownable. Another lovely story from the author, I'm loving the Winter siblings.
I first read this novella in the Once upon a Christmas box set, it has an epilogue which is new & completes the story
A love story of unrequited love from both parties, their journey to Emilia’s country house is funny, sexy, heart wrenching & unputdownable. Another lovely story from the author, I'm loving the Winter siblings.
I first read this novella in the Once upon a Christmas box set, it has an epilogue which is new & completes the story
July 5, 2021
There was a story here, if only the author had taken the time to tell it and to flesh out the characters instead of making them cardboard cliches. I am quitting this series due to lack of interest.
January 13, 2020
The Wicked Winters are one of the richest families in all of England. Each of the 6 siblings was left a fortune of their own & oldest & only son, Devereaux Winter was in charge of caring for the assets & investing everyone's fortune. His five younger sisters were all educated & refined young women & the only thing Dev wants for them is to marry a noble man so they will be accepted in society.
The youngest sibling is Beatrix "Bea" Winter, she is 18 yrs. old & she desires becoming a midwife. Unfortunately, her brother caught her sneaking out to aid a doctor & he forbids her from assisting the doctor in the future. They are leaving to spend the Christmas holiday at their country estate & he will find noble men for his sisters to marry among the guests he has invited. midwife.
Merrick Hart is Dev's right hand man & has been working for the Winter's for a few years. Dev trusts him, knows he is honorable & has become a friend too. Merrick is handsome, kind & has been attracted to Bea Winter since she blossomed & became a young woman - but he would never let anyone know his feelings. The Winter's left London to celebrate Christmas in the country, the servants were given time off to be with their families & Merrick stayed behind to watch the London townhouse. Alone, at last to read & drink some of Dev's liquor, until Miss Beatrix Winter comes in the front door in the wee hour of the morning, with blood all over the front of her gown. Why isn't she with her family & what has happened to her?
Merrick & Bea's adventure together begins & what a fun, romantic, spicy time they have & even a Christmas Eve day wedding. Scarlett Scott is a genius when it comes to creating characters that just pull your heartstrings & Merrick & Bea did just that for me - a wonderful story. And.......the Epilogue is the icing on the cake!
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
The youngest sibling is Beatrix "Bea" Winter, she is 18 yrs. old & she desires becoming a midwife. Unfortunately, her brother caught her sneaking out to aid a doctor & he forbids her from assisting the doctor in the future. They are leaving to spend the Christmas holiday at their country estate & he will find noble men for his sisters to marry among the guests he has invited. midwife.
Merrick Hart is Dev's right hand man & has been working for the Winter's for a few years. Dev trusts him, knows he is honorable & has become a friend too. Merrick is handsome, kind & has been attracted to Bea Winter since she blossomed & became a young woman - but he would never let anyone know his feelings. The Winter's left London to celebrate Christmas in the country, the servants were given time off to be with their families & Merrick stayed behind to watch the London townhouse. Alone, at last to read & drink some of Dev's liquor, until Miss Beatrix Winter comes in the front door in the wee hour of the morning, with blood all over the front of her gown. Why isn't she with her family & what has happened to her?
Merrick & Bea's adventure together begins & what a fun, romantic, spicy time they have & even a Christmas Eve day wedding. Scarlett Scott is a genius when it comes to creating characters that just pull your heartstrings & Merrick & Bea did just that for me - a wonderful story. And.......the Epilogue is the icing on the cake!
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
November 6, 2021
This story was very good, short but good. It is part of the Wicked Winters. This one is about Beatrix and how he convinces Merrick Hart to risk everything for her.
Deveraux Winter and his new wife, Lady Emilia, have organised a house party to celebrate Christmas with some eligible gentlemen to help his sisters make good matches among the Ton. However, they have forgotten about one member of the family, so when Beatrix comes back home in search of food, a bath and clean clothes after a hard night of work, the only one she finds is Merrick Hart, her brother's right hand, his man of business.
Bea thinks he despises her because he always looks at her coolly and with disdain, even if she has secretly been attracted to him since she became a young woman, but that's far from the truth. Merrick also holds a secret attachment to her, but he knows that she is off-limits, and too far above him socially to even have any hope of ever claiming her as his.
Things get complicated while spending time alone together in her house and then on the road, on the way to the house party in the country until, in a particularly hot moment they're sharing, none other than her brother finds them...oops!
I like the plot but I have to say I didn't like Bea at the beginning because even if Merrick was quite attracted to her so it is a 2 people thing, she was drawing him to her and not understanding the life-changing consequences that any trespass on her brother's trust would have for Merrick, she was like "screw the consequences" but he almost lost his job and livelihood, and could have been way worse than it was at the beginning. Luckily for them, Dev is also in love, so he could understand the circumstances.
Other than that, a very good short story! A HEA for both of them in their work life and their life together. I love how in love they are. Recommended! And I'll keep on reading the next stories.
Deveraux Winter and his new wife, Lady Emilia, have organised a house party to celebrate Christmas with some eligible gentlemen to help his sisters make good matches among the Ton. However, they have forgotten about one member of the family, so when Beatrix comes back home in search of food, a bath and clean clothes after a hard night of work, the only one she finds is Merrick Hart, her brother's right hand, his man of business.
Bea thinks he despises her because he always looks at her coolly and with disdain, even if she has secretly been attracted to him since she became a young woman, but that's far from the truth. Merrick also holds a secret attachment to her, but he knows that she is off-limits, and too far above him socially to even have any hope of ever claiming her as his.
Things get complicated while spending time alone together in her house and then on the road, on the way to the house party in the country until, in a particularly hot moment they're sharing, none other than her brother finds them...oops!
I like the plot but I have to say I didn't like Bea at the beginning because even if Merrick was quite attracted to her so it is a 2 people thing, she was drawing him to her and not understanding the life-changing consequences that any trespass on her brother's trust would have for Merrick, she was like "screw the consequences" but he almost lost his job and livelihood, and could have been way worse than it was at the beginning. Luckily for them, Dev is also in love, so he could understand the circumstances.
Other than that, a very good short story! A HEA for both of them in their work life and their life together. I love how in love they are. Recommended! And I'll keep on reading the next stories.
March 29, 2020
Wow! Twenty-seven interesting, entertaining and fun stories all with happy ever after endings and with one common theme ... Its almost Christmas and time for romance.
I read stories by some of my most favorite authors and then was also introduced to some others for the first time. This is a nicely put-together box set and though it is not Christmastime, I would still recommend it as readable at any time of the year.
These are the stories in the boxset:
Hell's Wedding Bells, Annabelle Anders
Two Lady Scoundrels and a Duke, Tessa Candle
A Wicked Wedding, Laura Trentham
The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayham, Emmanuelle de Maupassant
The Russian Betrothal, Elsa Holland
Beautifully Reckless, Virginia Taylor
The Mistletoe Mistress, Maddison Michaels
Deeds not Words, Ashe Barker
Holly and the Beast, Annabel Joseph
The Winter Bride, Emma V. Leech
Mistletoe Kisses, Elise Marion
The Christmas Countess, K.J. Jackson
Mischief and Mistletoe, Stacy Reid
Kidnapped with the Knight, Emily Murdoch
The Russian Prince's Bride, Mariah Stone
Christmas Charity, Beverley Oakley
The Angel of an Astronomer, Linda Rae Sande
Wassail, Wagers and Weddings, S. Cinders
Highland Yule, Sky Purington
Marrying Miss Bright, Dayna Quince
Kiss Me, Macrae, Amy Sandas
Holly and Old Lace, Vanessa Brooks
Home for Christmas, Celeste Jones
A Spinster at the Highland Court, Celeste Barclay
The Holiday Hussy, Merry Farmer
December Debauchery, Em Brown
Wedded in Winter, Scarlett Scott
I read stories by some of my most favorite authors and then was also introduced to some others for the first time. This is a nicely put-together box set and though it is not Christmastime, I would still recommend it as readable at any time of the year.
These are the stories in the boxset:
Hell's Wedding Bells, Annabelle Anders
Two Lady Scoundrels and a Duke, Tessa Candle
A Wicked Wedding, Laura Trentham
The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayham, Emmanuelle de Maupassant
The Russian Betrothal, Elsa Holland
Beautifully Reckless, Virginia Taylor
The Mistletoe Mistress, Maddison Michaels
Deeds not Words, Ashe Barker
Holly and the Beast, Annabel Joseph
The Winter Bride, Emma V. Leech
Mistletoe Kisses, Elise Marion
The Christmas Countess, K.J. Jackson
Mischief and Mistletoe, Stacy Reid
Kidnapped with the Knight, Emily Murdoch
The Russian Prince's Bride, Mariah Stone
Christmas Charity, Beverley Oakley
The Angel of an Astronomer, Linda Rae Sande
Wassail, Wagers and Weddings, S. Cinders
Highland Yule, Sky Purington
Marrying Miss Bright, Dayna Quince
Kiss Me, Macrae, Amy Sandas
Holly and Old Lace, Vanessa Brooks
Home for Christmas, Celeste Jones
A Spinster at the Highland Court, Celeste Barclay
The Holiday Hussy, Merry Farmer
December Debauchery, Em Brown
Wedded in Winter, Scarlett Scott
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April 12, 2021I did not care for the Heroine in this second book of the Wicked Winters series. She was extremely selfish and had no concern for the trouble she was causing the Hero. She forced her will on him time and time again. Yes, I know he was 10 years older and, therefore, should have had more control. However, she pushed and pushed until she got her way, and she didn't care he would lose his position if her brother knew what was happening. Anyone that self-centered rarely has any redeeming qualities...and I didn't find any in her. She was nothing more than a spoiled brat.
The Hero, on the other hand, did everything he could to resist the Heroine. He was a just and honorable man, pushed to the edge of a cliff until he all but fell off. I admired his restraint and the fact he held on to his temper with the Heroine constantly argued and battled with him. He was the only saving grace of this book.
While there was chemistry and passion, there was little time for a romance. Once again, the book was short and felt hurried. There was a slight bit of drama, but a great deal of angst (thanks to the Heroine, it was a tad too much).
Not a Keeper for the Shelves kind of book, but it was a decent read.
The Hero, on the other hand, did everything he could to resist the Heroine. He was a just and honorable man, pushed to the edge of a cliff until he all but fell off. I admired his restraint and the fact he held on to his temper with the Heroine constantly argued and battled with him. He was the only saving grace of this book.
While there was chemistry and passion, there was little time for a romance. Once again, the book was short and felt hurried. There was a slight bit of drama, but a great deal of angst (thanks to the Heroine, it was a tad too much).
Not a Keeper for the Shelves kind of book, but it was a decent read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2020
I have read a few of Scarlett Scott’s works but this is my first foray into reading anything from her well-received Wicked Winters series. Beatrix (Bea) Winter, the youngest sister, is left behind by mistake when her family travels to the country for Christmas. Unknown to her family, she was not at home when they left. In actuality, she longs to become a midwife and was assisting a physician with the delivery of a newborn. Bea’s older brother Dev wants her to marry someone with a title to elevate the standing of the Winter family. This is opposite what Bea wants. She doesn’t care to marry a fop or idle lord who doesn’t work at anything. She is secretly in love with her brother Dev’s right-hand man, Merrick Hart. Little does Bea know that he is smitten with her. Merrick undertakes the quest to get her to her family so she can celebrate Christmas with them. This fun, lively, and sexy novella takes off at a quick pace with witty dialogue and two engaging characters. One does all she can to entice and the other tries hard to evade temptation. Who will win? The plot and the dynamics of this work are top-notch. Kudos to Ms. Scott. It was a quite enjoyable read.
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