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The de Montforte Brothers #5.5
My First Noel
Lady Katharine Farnsley has been jilted yet again. Her cold exterior masking a world of hurt, she despairs of ever finding true love. But when a mysterious stranger comes to her, hurt and desperate on a snowy Christmas Eve, she never dreams that opening the door to him will change her life forever... and show her the true meaning of Christmas.
A holiday novella set in the De Montforte world, written by the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The De Montfortes.
A holiday novella set in the De Montforte world, written by the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The De Montfortes.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2016
762 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Danelle Harmon
42 books472 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Danelle Harmon has written seventeen critically acclaimed and award-winning books, with many being published all over the world. A Massachusetts native, she has lived in Great Britain, though these days she and her English husband make their home in New England with their daughter Emma and numerous animals including five dogs, an Egyptian Arabian horse, and a flock of pet chickens. Danelle enjoys reading, spending time with family, friends and her animals, dog showing, plane-spotting, and sailing her reproduction 19th century skiff, Kestrel II. She welcomes email from her readers and can be reached at Danelle@danelleharmon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 31, 2017
Imagine my utter delight when browsing new books when I discovered that there was a Christmas novella for one of my favorite romance series. I haven't been this captivated by a fictional family since diving into the Malory novels back in university. Although the story isn't about the De Monteforte siblings, the story begins with Lucien, Duke of Blackheath thwarting an Irish highwaymen. Injured and needing protection from the cold weather, the Irishman stumbles to the door of Lady Katherine and her brother, Perry. What transpires is nothing short of Chrismas magic with a message about neighbors reaching out and forgiving one another.
December 4, 2016
Flat out, the best thing about this novella was that Lucien, the Duke of Blackheath, was involved. If you have read any of the de Montforte novels, you know Lucien. It would be horribly disappointing if he were not to make an appearance, and I don't think I am the only reader who considers him the series favorite.
Do not fear if you are not familiar with the series or the infamous Duke of Blackheath, this can be read as a standalone. There is some very great plotting and writing that references some of his previously revealed characteristics, such as being a bit of a matchmaker underneath his devious and formidable personality that might not be as apparent to new readers, but he is not the focus of this story.
This novella does make use of Christian religious belief as part of the storyline. I don't want to have spoilers, but Christmas is more than a holiday season in this book. This was something that I was not expecting and don't recall from the previous books. There are also no intimate scenes in this novella.
I was honestly disappointed that this is so short, even considering it is a novella. The hero, in particular, had an amazing backstory and at the end of the story he was just on his way to resolve his situation. I believe this warranted a longer story. It was a bit as if the story ended at the end of a chapter to a novel, with the next chapter being perfectly set up but not included. I enjoy novellas and understand that they are not the same as novels, yet I still felt that this was too condensed.
Danielle Harmon's writing is always so satisfying, and her stories are so engaging, and this was no exception. That is why even though I was slightly disappointed at the particularly short length and the almost abrupt and unsatisfying ending, I still greatly enjoyed this novella.
Do not fear if you are not familiar with the series or the infamous Duke of Blackheath, this can be read as a standalone. There is some very great plotting and writing that references some of his previously revealed characteristics, such as being a bit of a matchmaker underneath his devious and formidable personality that might not be as apparent to new readers, but he is not the focus of this story.
This novella does make use of Christian religious belief as part of the storyline. I don't want to have spoilers, but Christmas is more than a holiday season in this book. This was something that I was not expecting and don't recall from the previous books. There are also no intimate scenes in this novella.
I was honestly disappointed that this is so short, even considering it is a novella. The hero, in particular, had an amazing backstory and at the end of the story he was just on his way to resolve his situation. I believe this warranted a longer story. It was a bit as if the story ended at the end of a chapter to a novel, with the next chapter being perfectly set up but not included. I enjoy novellas and understand that they are not the same as novels, yet I still felt that this was too condensed.
Danielle Harmon's writing is always so satisfying, and her stories are so engaging, and this was no exception. That is why even though I was slightly disappointed at the particularly short length and the almost abrupt and unsatisfying ending, I still greatly enjoyed this novella.
December 11, 2022
While I thoroughly enjoyed the time spent in each character’s head, their interactions with each other were either unbelievable or forgettable. Having met Lady K in previous novels, I found her discomfort with being a vicious harpy and desire to be a better person rushed and unconvincing. The plotline was equally so. I appreciated the attempt to bring the Lord Christ into this Christmas story, and it felt sincere, but also a bit clumsy and unrealized. What, I wonder, would have been the outcome if Noel had not been revealed as a lord fighting for his inheritance? Katharine would have let him ride off on Christmas morning without another thought, I’d wager. That’s how unconvincing this romance is.
Lovely descriptions, some nice emotion, and the appearance of Lucien were the best things about this novella.
Lovely descriptions, some nice emotion, and the appearance of Lucien were the best things about this novella.
February 28, 2023
It was just ok. I felt like it was a prequel to a longer book - it ended with several things up in the air - but there didn’t seem to be one.
There was too much internal dialogue, especially from the heroine and the religious stuff seemed overdone.
I haven’t read any of the books in this series so I can’t speak to how believable her transformation was.
There was too much internal dialogue, especially from the heroine and the religious stuff seemed overdone.
I haven’t read any of the books in this series so I can’t speak to how believable her transformation was.
September 15, 2024
My first Noel by. Dane!!e Harmon
If you are going to write a movie trailer for a book, NOVELLA should be a part of the title. I was really into the story and it ended. It was NOT a book. Very disappointing and misrepresented for what it was.
If you are going to write a movie trailer for a book, NOVELLA should be a part of the title. I was really into the story and it ended. It was NOT a book. Very disappointing and misrepresented for what it was.
February 5, 2023
great quick read
Loved this quick read. What a way to meet someone who impacts your life. The impact Noel had on Katherine was life changing.
Loved this quick read. What a way to meet someone who impacts your life. The impact Noel had on Katherine was life changing.
November 26, 2023
Ugh, I wanted MORE!
Much like the previous novella in the series (Fox & the Angel), this little story sooo left me wanting, and felt even more incomplete. I had questions! So many questions. And knowing that I'll never get answers to those questions almost made me deduct a star for the whole thing. But alas, what does it say when a story, even at novella's length, manages to keep me so invested that to say goodbye to the thing is hard to accept? It says that something was done right. And this little novella was done right. Maybe even TOO right, even despite making me want more.
Though this story takes place after the events in book #5, (my personal favorite), it's not a direct sequel. We reunite with Katharine and Perry, (who we met in the previous entries), in the aftermath of the events that took place. Both siblings are understandably disgruntled, but especially Katharine. Since this is her story, we learn of her woes rather quickly. Girl can't seem to find men who want her, and it's left her rather bitter. Enter Nollaig (Noel), the hero of the tale who finds himself in a rather precarious predicament that forces Katharine to reevaluate her behavior towards others.
I loved this little story so much. I loved getting to know Katharine and Noel, from their initial abrasive interactions to the smooth ones. I loved the worth the two of them found in one another, as well as their situations. The little bit of growth shown (particularly for Katharine), was so beautiful that it still very much aggravates me that they didn't get to have a full-length story. Not only do I adore their affections, but the message overall in this story was so lovely, something that even I felt compelled to take to heart. Ugh if only Danelle Hamon completed their journey, what an even more perfect story this could have been.
Click here for my highlighted commentary.
Much like the previous novella in the series (Fox & the Angel), this little story sooo left me wanting, and felt even more incomplete. I had questions! So many questions. And knowing that I'll never get answers to those questions almost made me deduct a star for the whole thing. But alas, what does it say when a story, even at novella's length, manages to keep me so invested that to say goodbye to the thing is hard to accept? It says that something was done right. And this little novella was done right. Maybe even TOO right, even despite making me want more.
Though this story takes place after the events in book #5, (my personal favorite), it's not a direct sequel. We reunite with Katharine and Perry, (who we met in the previous entries), in the aftermath of the events that took place. Both siblings are understandably disgruntled, but especially Katharine. Since this is her story, we learn of her woes rather quickly. Girl can't seem to find men who want her, and it's left her rather bitter. Enter Nollaig (Noel), the hero of the tale who finds himself in a rather precarious predicament that forces Katharine to reevaluate her behavior towards others.
I loved this little story so much. I loved getting to know Katharine and Noel, from their initial abrasive interactions to the smooth ones. I loved the worth the two of them found in one another, as well as their situations. The little bit of growth shown (particularly for Katharine), was so beautiful that it still very much aggravates me that they didn't get to have a full-length story. Not only do I adore their affections, but the message overall in this story was so lovely, something that even I felt compelled to take to heart. Ugh if only Danelle Hamon completed their journey, what an even more perfect story this could have been.
Click here for my highlighted commentary.
December 10, 2025
Yet again, I am guilty of jumping into the middle of a series… but I was in the mood for a sweet and historical Christmas story and this novella delivered.
After facing another rejection, Lady Katharine Farnsley encounters a strange man named Noel. Ready to drop her ‘cold’ exterior and try her hand at charity, she takes Noel in. After having a profound dream about this stranger, she begins to question his identity.
Not being familiar with the characters and dynamics, it’s difficult for me to discuss the ins and outs, but despite my unfamiliarity, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The premise was cute and I loved the writing. It was the perfect book to kick off my December reading!
After facing another rejection, Lady Katharine Farnsley encounters a strange man named Noel. Ready to drop her ‘cold’ exterior and try her hand at charity, she takes Noel in. After having a profound dream about this stranger, she begins to question his identity.
Not being familiar with the characters and dynamics, it’s difficult for me to discuss the ins and outs, but despite my unfamiliarity, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The premise was cute and I loved the writing. It was the perfect book to kick off my December reading!
June 2, 2021
I loved this Novella! Christmas, the birth of our Savior! Lady Katharine Farnsley, sister to Perry, Duke of Brookhampton has been jilted 3 times. She has become very cynical and jaded, however, her life changes on late Christmas Eve when she brings a hurt man into her home. By one act of kindness everything can change. Redeemed is a gift of forgiveness. This is a delightful story and you will enjoy it.
December 21, 2022
I SO HOPE their story continues!
I am so hoping that their story continues! I've read the first five books of the series, so I'm aware of what a perfect shrew Katharine has been. I shared the voice in her dream/vision, it is lovely.
Merry Christmas, Danelle, wishing you a happy, healthy New Year filled with love and kindness.
Bobi Holbrook
Mrs WFH, Bill doesn't read MY books! ;-)
I am so hoping that their story continues! I've read the first five books of the series, so I'm aware of what a perfect shrew Katharine has been. I shared the voice in her dream/vision, it is lovely.
Merry Christmas, Danelle, wishing you a happy, healthy New Year filled with love and kindness.
Bobi Holbrook
Mrs WFH, Bill doesn't read MY books! ;-)
October 31, 2021
Short. story
The last three "books" of this series are each actually more short stories. They feature minor characters from the five actual books plus a cameo by the Duke of Blackheath.
The stories are fine but I feel the prices charged are not commensurate with the content. Luckily they are free with Kindle Unlimited
The last three "books" of this series are each actually more short stories. They feature minor characters from the five actual books plus a cameo by the Duke of Blackheath.
The stories are fine but I feel the prices charged are not commensurate with the content. Luckily they are free with Kindle Unlimited
October 9, 2020
Wonderful story/stories
Have read the entire series - couldn`t put them down! Stories flow, one into the next and while they can be stand - alone, there's also a great continuity! Lucien is surely a force to be reckoned with throughout the entire series.
Have read the entire series - couldn`t put them down! Stories flow, one into the next and while they can be stand - alone, there's also a great continuity! Lucien is surely a force to be reckoned with throughout the entire series.
August 12, 2020
Loved this Christmas Dr Montfort series book.
November 29, 2020
Noel not long enough!!
This story was to short. The characters did not engage to hold a true relationship. I wanted more. Thank you for more possibility 😋janie
This story was to short. The characters did not engage to hold a true relationship. I wanted more. Thank you for more possibility 😋janie
September 4, 2021
Though I have thoroughly enjoyed most of Danielle Harmon's books, I found this book to be a total waste of time and money spent. I do NOT recommend!
July 27, 2022
KU nicely done redemptive short story would have preferred a bit more story, but v good all the same
April 4, 2023
Rated 3.5
May 2, 2023
redeeming love
I really liked how you wove faith into this story. So much truth. Thank you. I have enjoyed your creations.
I really liked how you wove faith into this story. So much truth. Thank you. I have enjoyed your creations.
November 2, 2023
So much better than her other Christmas novella! No insta-love, and the writing was better. And I always love a cameo by Lucien.
December 14, 2024
I was looking for a holiday romance, but this book was the end of a series and I didn't know what had gone before. It was okay, but I would have liked to know the backstory.
January 1, 2025
Reading this book made me interested in this world; as far as the actual story— it’s fine.
May 23, 2025
short, sweet, but wanting more
May 29, 2025
A little sappy but still good.
November 29, 2016
My First Noel: A Christmas Novella Set in The De Montforte World by Danelle Harmon is a lovely feel good festive read.
Poor Lady Katharine Farnsley has been jilted yet again. This is the third time that she set her sights on marriage, and her second broken betrothal. In hind sight she realises that it's her cold demeanour that puts men off her, her unforgiving ways make her a cold woman. She is a lonely woman. It's Christmas eve and she has just found out that she is a single woman once again. The man in question couldn't even tell her to her face, he sent a letter.
Her brother Perry should have brought her some comfort after the news but he just used it as an excuse to get further into 'his cups' as he has been doing ever since returning home from France where he was exiled by Lucien De Montforte. There is no love lost between the De Montforte's and Perry and Katharine.
Lucien finds himself being held up by a highway man. A highway man with not a lot of experience. In fact he only robs coaches because he has been turned away from his family who refuse to help him take his rightful place as a Lord. The robbery of course is not a success, I mean come on, Lucien De Montforte is not a man you tangle with. Instead our highway man ends up thrown from his horse which then lands on top of him. He is badly hurt, and the only Christmas concession Lucien makes is to tell the man he will give him time to get away. He's going to fetch the magistrate, and if the man is gone by the time they get back, then he won't search for him.
Our highway man finds his way to Katharine's house, practically dragging himself through the snow. He manages to knock on her door, and when Katharine answers she soon tells him he's disgusting being in a drunken state and closes the door on him. She then thinks more about it and goes back to the door to let him in. After all it's Christmas and she should be kind.
During his one night in the house a change comes over Katharine after she has a dream, a dream that makes her realise that she needs to change her ways, be a kinder person. When she does, that is when she will find happiness. She wants to find that happiness with her mystery highway man. He is certainly attracted to her, love at first sight despite his injuries.
I enjoyed this very quick read, but must admit that I feel as if there could be much more to it. Perhaps a follow on book? Yes we have our happy ever after, but we are still left wondering what happens with our highway man, will he take his rightful place? What of Perry, will he overcome his nightmares and drinking habits? Both things that I really want to know the answers for. Other than those unanswered questions, this was a really lovely feel good story that reminds us of the real meaning of Christmas.
Poor Lady Katharine Farnsley has been jilted yet again. This is the third time that she set her sights on marriage, and her second broken betrothal. In hind sight she realises that it's her cold demeanour that puts men off her, her unforgiving ways make her a cold woman. She is a lonely woman. It's Christmas eve and she has just found out that she is a single woman once again. The man in question couldn't even tell her to her face, he sent a letter.
Her brother Perry should have brought her some comfort after the news but he just used it as an excuse to get further into 'his cups' as he has been doing ever since returning home from France where he was exiled by Lucien De Montforte. There is no love lost between the De Montforte's and Perry and Katharine.
Lucien finds himself being held up by a highway man. A highway man with not a lot of experience. In fact he only robs coaches because he has been turned away from his family who refuse to help him take his rightful place as a Lord. The robbery of course is not a success, I mean come on, Lucien De Montforte is not a man you tangle with. Instead our highway man ends up thrown from his horse which then lands on top of him. He is badly hurt, and the only Christmas concession Lucien makes is to tell the man he will give him time to get away. He's going to fetch the magistrate, and if the man is gone by the time they get back, then he won't search for him.
Our highway man finds his way to Katharine's house, practically dragging himself through the snow. He manages to knock on her door, and when Katharine answers she soon tells him he's disgusting being in a drunken state and closes the door on him. She then thinks more about it and goes back to the door to let him in. After all it's Christmas and she should be kind.
During his one night in the house a change comes over Katharine after she has a dream, a dream that makes her realise that she needs to change her ways, be a kinder person. When she does, that is when she will find happiness. She wants to find that happiness with her mystery highway man. He is certainly attracted to her, love at first sight despite his injuries.
I enjoyed this very quick read, but must admit that I feel as if there could be much more to it. Perhaps a follow on book? Yes we have our happy ever after, but we are still left wondering what happens with our highway man, will he take his rightful place? What of Perry, will he overcome his nightmares and drinking habits? Both things that I really want to know the answers for. Other than those unanswered questions, this was a really lovely feel good story that reminds us of the real meaning of Christmas.
December 30, 2016
After being jilted on Christmas Eve, no less, Lady Katharine Farnsley spends the evening becoming bitter and feeling sorry for herself. She acknowledges that she is beautiful, rich, and very connected within the ton. She simply cannot understand why three very good marriage prospects have turned and run from her, rather than marry her. But her brother, Perry, the Earl of Brookhampton, is deep in his own cups, licking wounds from his own life's misfortune. He feels no compunction in setting her straight. She may be heavily dowered, he points out, but she is a total shrew. Bitten by both her brother's truth and her newest broken engagement, she withdraws and sees nothing redeeming or merry about this season.
A snowstorm that night sends a very injured man to her door, and at first she refuses him shelter. But a second thought makes her open her home to him, and with it her heart to what Christmas is really about.
Noel O'Flaherty is trying to make a living as a highwayman so that he might garner enough money to get his own estate back from family members that stole it from him. But when he targets the coach belonging to Lucien De Montforte, the Duke of Blackheath, his fortunes plumment further. Lucien and his driver foil robbery attempt, and Noel ends up almost crushed to death beneath his own horse. Noel's only hope is to find a place of refuge before the Duke finishes what he started. Freezing and trying to survive, he sees the Brookhampton estate; its light draws him to the front door and possibly his only hope of survival.
Lady Katharine's single act of charity introduces her to a man whose very name means Christmas. His bravery and his honesty stir something deep within her and she realizes she needs to change. His willingness to get to know her with conversation and simple truth evokes, not only a sense of awareness to this man she found nearly frozen at her door, but an awakening to the way life could be with warmth and kindness. Lady Katharine finds the meaning of season. She regrets the way she has treated others in the past. Before Christmas is past, she begins her evolution into a kinder, more caring version of herself.
I always enjoy the inclusion of Lucien DeMontforte. He is possibly the most complex, hard to ignore, and (a real) favorite character of mine.
I am never disappointed by anything that Danelle Harmon pens. Her stories are unpredictable, extremely visual, and very fulfilling. She creates characters with intensely interesting lives and characteristics--complete with human flaws that most of us can recognize and appreciate. I have read all of her books-and there hasn't been one that I haven't wanted to turn around and reread. (Many I have reread!) This one will be no exception.
A snowstorm that night sends a very injured man to her door, and at first she refuses him shelter. But a second thought makes her open her home to him, and with it her heart to what Christmas is really about.
Noel O'Flaherty is trying to make a living as a highwayman so that he might garner enough money to get his own estate back from family members that stole it from him. But when he targets the coach belonging to Lucien De Montforte, the Duke of Blackheath, his fortunes plumment further. Lucien and his driver foil robbery attempt, and Noel ends up almost crushed to death beneath his own horse. Noel's only hope is to find a place of refuge before the Duke finishes what he started. Freezing and trying to survive, he sees the Brookhampton estate; its light draws him to the front door and possibly his only hope of survival.
Lady Katharine's single act of charity introduces her to a man whose very name means Christmas. His bravery and his honesty stir something deep within her and she realizes she needs to change. His willingness to get to know her with conversation and simple truth evokes, not only a sense of awareness to this man she found nearly frozen at her door, but an awakening to the way life could be with warmth and kindness. Lady Katharine finds the meaning of season. She regrets the way she has treated others in the past. Before Christmas is past, she begins her evolution into a kinder, more caring version of herself.
I always enjoy the inclusion of Lucien DeMontforte. He is possibly the most complex, hard to ignore, and (a real) favorite character of mine.
I am never disappointed by anything that Danelle Harmon pens. Her stories are unpredictable, extremely visual, and very fulfilling. She creates characters with intensely interesting lives and characteristics--complete with human flaws that most of us can recognize and appreciate. I have read all of her books-and there hasn't been one that I haven't wanted to turn around and reread. (Many I have reread!) This one will be no exception.
December 14, 2016
Danelle Harmon's first foray into the inspirational realm comes at an appropriate time, both for readers, and for the characters. Heroine Katharine has been thrice jilted, and this time, she might have an inkling what all those broken engagements have in common; her. Enter the appropriately named Noel, a desperate Irish highwayman who collapses on a cold Christmas eve, literally on Katharine's doorstep, giving her a chance to put the needs of others before her own wants. Add in one two-way conversation with the Almighty, which gives Katharine cause to wonder if her visitor might be truly Heaven-sent in the most literal fashion, and get ready for all the feels. This is a delicious blend of romance, faith and the promise of Christmas.
While the novella wraps with more of a happy for now than happily ever after (it's only been one night, after all) readers will certainly hope to see Katharine and Noel again in future De Monteforte world stories.
While the novella wraps with more of a happy for now than happily ever after (it's only been one night, after all) readers will certainly hope to see Katharine and Noel again in future De Monteforte world stories.
January 23, 2017
Wonderful Christmas story!!!
I was in the middle of another book when this popped up on my Kindle. I knew I had to read this first as Danielle is one of my very favorite authors, and I was not disappointed! Such a wonderful, heartwarming tale! It is short and I breezed through it very quickly, but I will go back and re-read it probably several times. It was just that good! It tells the story of a changed heart, with a big emphasis on the teachings of the Christ child, born on Christmas day! Perfect holiday story that is meaningful and still keeps some of our favorite characters from this series in the story. I hope we will see these two pop-up again! Merry Christmas Ms Harmon and thank you for the world fearful gift!
I was in the middle of another book when this popped up on my Kindle. I knew I had to read this first as Danielle is one of my very favorite authors, and I was not disappointed! Such a wonderful, heartwarming tale! It is short and I breezed through it very quickly, but I will go back and re-read it probably several times. It was just that good! It tells the story of a changed heart, with a big emphasis on the teachings of the Christ child, born on Christmas day! Perfect holiday story that is meaningful and still keeps some of our favorite characters from this series in the story. I hope we will see these two pop-up again! Merry Christmas Ms Harmon and thank you for the world fearful gift!
December 25, 2024
I avoid redemption stories because I usually find them heavy-handed and unnecessarily maudlin. I didn't realize this was a redemption story at first, and I was completely sucked in by the time I did. This was most definitely not maudlin; it was beautiful. I found Katharine's revelations natural and insightful. I loved Noel's reactions to Katharine. Their conversations later in the story moved me to tears more than once. Christmas was used in a very effective way and described so meaningfully -- I would compare it to Linus's speech in "A Charlie Brown Christmas" but in a more nuanced version for adults. I have read almost all of Danelle Harmon's work, and this is now my absolute favorite. I wanted to reread the whole thing as soon as I finished it.
February 2, 2017
This is a story of finding one's self and forgiveness. It touched my heart and stuck deep. Even left me teary eyed at times. Katharine and Noel took me on a ride which traversed the pains of their pasts and into the happiness of their future. One of my all time favorite characters from the de Montforte series... Perry... makes an appearance which made me smile. Danelle's writing always burrows into my heart and settles down in it's own special place. Another novella that left me feeling satisfied in it's completion.
December 3, 2016
Noel
I really like this author and I enjoyed this book. Lady Katherine is a lost soul from all the heartache she has had through the years. She has been brought a stranger in Christmas eve th help her see the light. I know novellas are short but I think this story would have been great if it would have been written as a complete story.
I really like this author and I enjoyed this book. Lady Katherine is a lost soul from all the heartache she has had through the years. She has been brought a stranger in Christmas eve th help her see the light. I know novellas are short but I think this story would have been great if it would have been written as a complete story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews