Have Yourself a Merry Little Secret

Have Yourself a Merry Little Secret
Anthology
Release date 10/10/2020
Publisher Historical Harlot Press

Wedding Her Christmas Duke - by Collette Cameron
The Knot of a Knight - by Linda Rae Sande
The Marquess is Mine - by Tamara Gill
The Secrets He Keeps - by Amy Sandas
A Yuletide Miracle - by Laurel O'Donnell
The Lady Who Stole Christmas - by Sydney Jane Baily
Christmas with a Czar - by Emily E.K. Murdoch
A Scot Most Wanted - by Angelique Armae Secretly Marvellous - by Virginia Taylor
One Scandalous Christmas - by J. Burrelli
The Rogue's Secret - by Stacy Reid and Giselle Marks

I was luckily granted five advance copies, bellow are my reviews.

𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗗𝘂𝗸𝗲 by 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗻
He’s not who he says he is…but then again, neither is she… Baxter is determined to make Justina his Christmas bride. But it’ll take more than mistletoe and the magic of the holiday season to guide these polar opposites to their happily ever after…

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will her origins and his rank tear them apart...

Mrs Cameron has a talent for portraying fated lovers, and this new couple is the perfect exemple.
For Baxter and Justina, it was love at first sight but both harbor secrets, secrets which could change the outcome of their burgeoning romance.
Justina is a sweet and quiet miss, happy of her life with her aunt, a woman who sacrificed everything to raise her as she decided she deserved. Upon her encounter with Baxter, she realizes he is everything she could dream.
Baxter prefers the simple life of a man in trade than the one of the peer. And while he is both, he impersonates his favorite self when outside London, thus he met Justina as he simple hotel’s owner, not the Duke he is too.
Their romance is an easy one as there is no doubt about their attraction, it is more their place in society that makes Justina questions her feelings and Baxter be caution.
A sweet 4 stars tale.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗞𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 by 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮 𝗥𝗮𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲
Sir Randolph’s daytime occupation collides with his nocturnal avocation of service to the Crown when he discovers Lady X's hidden stash of bank notes. They might be counterfeit—but are his feelings for her?

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

I just love Mrs Sande’s work, she writes classic historical tales with wits and steam without overdoing them. Her style is graceful, elegant, smart and bright.
Each new story I read is a delight. And this one is perfect. And scorching hot.
Randolph
Xenobia is a lovely but shy widow and quite lonely since the passing of her late husband, with his death she lost too her best friend. Now fresh out of mourning, she longs for new friendships and companionship.
Randolph, while illegitimate but acknowledged son of a marquess, never followed his profligate of a sire’s footsteps, only his love for horses. Instead he married young and became thus a younger widowed father. He also serves the crown and while much occupied, he in some ways wants more than successful businesses.
Their chemistry is immediate, striking them like a lightning bolt. Everything moves fast but nothing feels rushed. They are the right answer to one another.
A much enjoyable read with passion and mystery.
5 stars

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗛𝗲 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀 by 𝗔𝗺𝘆 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘀
Callista Hale is the formidable Madam of London’s most elite brothel. To crush a rival gentlemen’s club, she’ll accept a wicked offer from the club’s mysterious and sensual owner. Erik Maxwell built a livelihood on his knowledge of women’s desires. But Madam Pendragon poses an unexpected challenge. Seduction is the key to ending her crusade against him, but it’s not all he’s got in mind for the fascinating female

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will she let him go past her protected heart ...

While I have read only a few tales about prostitutes, it is often the fallen woman against the virgin hero trope.
I loved here the two heroes, older than usually, total opposite to the classic trope debutante/rake seeking wife, share a colored past, she by digging her way to the top of her trade, recreating the lost poor girl in the assured woman she is now decades later. He by traveling along the world, learning his way to people’s heart.
She sates the lust in her customers’ life when he files the heart by keeping together ton’s couple.
They are two complexe characters, united by their loneliness. While they live surrendered by people, they are very solitary. Erik recognizes instantly there is more than only lust between them but she is so jaded, she believes she is immune to any kind of feelings.
An entertaining read with a set of characters determined to prove the heroine wrong, that success does not mean to sacrifice everything else and that love with the right person will endeavor them to be better.
I wonder if there is a story about Callista’s brother.
4.5 stars

𝗔 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗹𝗲 by 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗹 𝗢’𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹𝗹
As she grew up, Lady Thora of Grandmore was told the legendary tales of the Yule Cat. The creature was supposed to be a fantasy until it attacked her. Now, Thora will do whatever is necessary to make sure the dangerous beast doesn’t hurt anyone ever again. Sir Bastian is sworn to protect Grandmore Castle and all its occupants. He finds himself falling in love with Thora but for the sake of her safety, he must convince her the animal that attacked her was not the legendary cat. Can Bastian save the woman he loves from her fear or will he lose her forever on the Yule?

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Oh I had no notion of this Yule Cat lore, but I loved to read about Miracle’s rescue.
This tale is a perfect exemple of how fears can lead to excesses and horrors. The middle was ruled by dread, and people manipulated to believe any legend that might keep them on leash.
That a little girl believe after listening to scaring legends that she was targeted by a monster. It is understandable plus the period made it easy to spread the story.
Bastian is a rational man, he knows how fear holds back people and changes them in unreasonable beasts. Yet can he prove his people, the worst creature is themselves as they turn in brute when terrified.
In this coming-of-age story, I loved how the author paints the various emotions and feelings crossing Thora’s psyche. It is not a smooth course for her to face her fears, analyze them rationally and acknowledge her wrong doing. As a little girl, she is forgivable but by not addressing the subject later, it became criminal.
Yet with the right boost, she sees the errors of her way, with Bastian to hold her hand as backup.
Miracle is the key role in this story about facing one’s error, a fur heroine and a ball of love.
5 stars

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺𝗮𝘀 by 𝗦𝘆𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆
A Yuletide gathering at Forde Hall is bursting with mince pies, mulled wine, merriment, … and mischief! Prinny’s trusted man, the Viscount Miles Denbigh, is tasked with discovering a wily thief who’s plaguing the ton’s house parties, stealing their jewels. Comely widow Lady Sarah Worthington has enjoyed Denbigh’s company before. However, much as she likes the man, she hadn’t expected to spend Twelvetide in his company, not when she has a secret mission — not when he suspects she’s up to something. Just because he’s right, doesn’t mean she has to like it! Join Miles and Sarah in a time game of cat and mouse.

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

So far I have only read clean stories by the author, so it was a pleasure to read one with a more sensual side than her usual’s.
Her heroes have both an agenda, and while they can’t stop brushing one another’s with purposeful hands and bantering wits and having not-fit-for-a-tearoom thoughts, they try but fail to stay out of sight of the other.
Hence the game of cat and mouse.
Sarah is an outsider, married to a very elderly earl who found very afterward their wedding his rest with the Lord. Thus her having not been well accepted by those born in the nobility. And now she is there to right some wrongs done, she is distracted by the sole man who made her inner core flicker.
Miles is there for a sole and quite easy mission if only his main subject was not the woman who ignites his inside. One who is everything he would want but fear he can’t have if she is whom he believes she is.
A delightful and sensuous tale of second chance.
5 stars

𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘂𝘀 by 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝗧𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗼𝗿
Lord Beldon Westerham, due to the recent loss of his father and brother, needs to marry to ensure a legitimate heir. To this end, he meets the Thornton sisters, and is fascinated by the younger, Lady Mary, who insists on a season in London before she marries him. He agrees and slowly falls in love with her. Mary has adored him for years but if she marries him, he will despise her, for her secret will be revealed. Should she risk all with one night of passion?

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will the error of her past refrain her to follow her heart ...

This is my second read by the author, and here again there is an heroine not easy to appreciate as she is quite a conundrum.
Mary has plenty of good sides but her first confrontation with Westerham shows her not under the best light, she is more shrew and pest material than heroine.
Why does she play the weak and demure sister, why is she so rude with Westerham when she is considerate to others less fortunate, she is kind to the staff. She also can be witty and funny.
Westerham is persuaded he has the perfect solution, marry a quiet miss, sire his heir and spare then he will go back to his usual way. But instead of choosing the easy and pretty sister of his friend, he goes for the tart younger sibling.
Slowly, her hot and cold way broke through the wall of his heart, showing there could be more if he wanted it.
A fun read where some secrets might be kept hidden to ensure a happier future.
4 stars

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Margaret Watkins

3,553 reviews88 followers

I was privileged to receive three novellas in this anthology by well-known authors as ARC's and my comments are based on those books:

The Knot of a Knight by Linda Rae Sande is heart-warming and tender laced with wit and humour. Coming out of mourning after a miserable and lonely year for a man who had been her best friend, but made a miserable husband, Lady Xenobia Dunsworth is excited to wear bright colours and to join her friends in entertainment again. A mischievous friend sets Xenobia and Sir Randolph up with deliberate misinformation, but they ultimately sort through the layers of chicanery and discover that they have more in common than they would have anticipated. Sir Randolph is tasked by the Foreign Office to uncover a plot and when by chance he discovers that Xenobia may be part of it, he has to tread carefully. When the truth comes out, they both win and discover that they are of one mind. This is a well-written and delightful romance.

The Marquess is Mine by Tamara Gill. Experiencing rejection and betrayal by the one man she trusted in, Lady Sarah is not pleased when he appears at her brother's Christmas house party. Still smarting from the years that she and Hugh had been disgraced through no fault of their own, Sarah would have thought that the man who knew them best would have stood by them. When Lord Gordon approaches her, hoping to mend the breach between them, it does not go well. However, Sarah cannot deny her attraction to him nor her feelings for him. Winning Sarah over takes hard work, but a snake in the grass throws his efforts into disarray, leaving the reader in despair for the star-crossed lovers. The story is well written and whilst it does come to a happy conclusion, it is not without pain and soul searching on the part of the main characters.

Christmas with a Czar by Emily E.K Mudoch is a light-hearted Christmas romance. Under pressure from her father, Anne Marsh agrees to one last-ditch attempt to find a husband by attending the Prince Regent's Christmas party at St James Court. She would prefer to live her life quietly in the country, but her father is insistent that they take the opportunity presented to them. The only person of interest on the horizon is a man in military attire, whom a footman informs her is Alexei Dmitry Immanuil Maximilian Konstantinvich and who says he is the true Czar of Russia. Anne's interest is piqued and when she goes to speak to him, finds he is as ostentatious as one could expect of a young Russian Czar, but Maxim turns out to be more interesting than she could have anticipated. Both Anne and Maxim are hiding secrets and have to wade through mirrors and shadows to come to a place of honesty. The story is light-hearted and romantic and comes to a happy closure.

I received copies of the above novellas as gifts and this is my honest and voluntary review.

EstelaReadsRomance

334 reviews

September 30, 2020

I will post my review after I finish reading each story...

YULETIDE SECRETS by S. Cinders

Starring Lady Anne Rawlings and Mr. Ian Stanford

Tropes:
Spinster and Matchmaking storylines with a little bit of intrigue thrown in.

Well, this was quite a delightful story. I read it in one sitting coz I was totally glued to these wonderful characters. I was thoroughly entertained and loved every minute I spent with this book.

Anne is a “Stand up for what you believe in and goes after what she wants” kinda heroine... I like that about her. Ian is my favorite kind of moody, broody hero... but when it comes to his daughter, he’s all heart. Totally le sigh!! There is slow burn attraction between Anne and Ian that will burst into flame once they finally get together. Oh the sexual tension between these two was hawt!! Ian and Anne gave me all the yummy feels. I truly enjoyed their road to HEA.

I also loved Aunt Gen and (Anne’s godmother) and Ian’s daughter, Amelia. They were wonderful additions to this book I kinda hope they both get their own stories someday.

This is my first S. Cinders story and I love her writing style. Very witty and engaging with a wonderful amount of passion. I’m already looking forward to adding her books to my collections.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.

My star rating: 4 1/2 stars
Book was great. Loved the characters. Gave me the feels and aaaaaaalmost made me cry in some parts.

Janet

5,176 reviews64 followers

Twelve delightful romances, so far I've only read four but if the others are as good as these then I’m in for a treat

Wedding her Christmas Duke Collette Cameron 5 Stars
Duke Baxter Bathhurst has little use for his title. He’d much rather manage his businesses than spend time with the marriage-minded misses of the ton. But then he meets her. Stranded at his hotel in Bath during a snowstorm, the green-eyed enchantress is spirited, wickedly smart, and everything he never knew he wanted in a wife. Justina Farthington is living a lie. If anyone were to discover her secret, she’d be ruined. So, she meticulously adheres to social strictures and avoids drawing any unwanted censure. Until she meets him. A beautifully written story of misunderstandings & secrets. I loved both Baxter & Justina who both had secrets, throw in a house party where we caught up with characters from earlier books & I was one happy reader

Marquess is Mine Tamara Gill 5 Stars
Lady Sarah Farley has learned many of life’s lessons the hard way. She now knows the ton will viciously turn on anyone, anytime. Lord Giles Longe, Marquis Gordan, has always loved Sarah but because of a scandal his father threatened to disown him if he pursued her. Everything is different now, though. They meet again at St. Albans Abbey. A lovely second chance romance. I loved both Giles & Sarah both of whom had been in love with the other for over a decade but scandal tore them apart, I loved the road to their HEA which wasn't smooth but made for a captivating read, I also loved that we caught up with Hugh & Molly

Lady who stole Christmas Sydney Jane Baily 5 Stars
It's Christmas in 1814, and at a Twelvetide party in Great Oakley, mischief is afoot. Grandfather clocks are stopping, stolen jewels are reappearing a hundred miles from where they went missing, and widow Lady Sarah Worthington is one intrepid lady who is falling in love with viscount Miles Denbigh, the only man who thinks her a despicable thief. Another well written novella of assumptions, misunderstandings & a sizzling attraction. Miles & Sarah had had a couple of trysts but meet on the way to the house party when one of her coach wheels breaks. He’s working for Prinny & she’s hoping to write some wrongs, however their feelings deepen as the party progresses. Strong characters & a story that flowed effortlessly made for a lovely afternoon’s read

The Rogue's Secret - by Stacy Reid and Giselle Marks 5 Stars
Lord Rupert Rogers is searching for the treasure his great uncle suggests he has left him. Then Lady Verity Hansard climbs the locked gate to the walled garden & Rupert is lost but Verity has a secret which could well scupper their budding romance. They work together to solve the riddle Rupert’s uncle left all the time falling in love. A page turning novella with lovely characters, the pages flew by with hidden treasure, would be thieves & a sizzling romance

Cheryl

2,440 reviews29 followers

2020 anthology historical-british

The Marquess is Mine 5*
Lady Sarah has known Giles, Marquess Gordan since childhood. Sarah was impulsive when she was younger and after an incident, when she was first a debutante, she hasn’t seen Giles to talk to. Giles, also, has regrets about the past. At a house party at the home of her brother Hugh and his wife Molly, Giles and Sarah are in each other’s company again and realise that they still have feelings for each other. Will secrets from the past affect the present? This was a very enjoyable read with engaging characters.
Wedding Her Christmas Duke 5*
This was a delightful story set in Bath and at a house party. Justina was staying at a hotel in Bath with her aunt. There is a mystery to her aunt’s background and also Justina’s own. At the hotel, Justina meets the owner, Baxter Bathurst. They do have a very strong attraction to each other. However, a number of events and misunderstandings do not help their relationship develop. This was a very engaging read.
The Rogue’s Secret 5*
I did enjoy this story very much, the characters Lord Rupert Rogers and Lady Verity were so likeable. Rupert has recently become a Baron and had a riddle to solve to find his late great uncle’s treasure. He needed it to help his tenants and he didn’t wish to marry an heiress. He wanted a mutual attraction between him and his future wife. He had been a bit of a rogue but was determined to mend his ways, although he still had a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Verity had experienced her share of heartache but was now loving in her own cottage. Rupert and Verity attracted to each other but Verity has a secret that she fears will spoil their relationship. There is also the treasure to be found and an enemy who will go to dangerous lengths to achieve what he wants. This was a lovely story that I thoroughly enjoyed. I received a copy of this story via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I have bought my own copy.

Some of the authors in this set are known to me but others are new, I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the stories.

Margaret

3,203 reviews33 followers

January 11, 2021

A Yuletide Miracle
Medieval - The folk tale of a Yule Cat at Christmas brings fear to the castle and villagers, reinforced by the fear of the daughter of the castle lord. Only the level headed captain of the guard counters the tale by convincing everyone to sing. Then a cat named Miracle shows there is nothing to fear. Love between the daughter and the captain brings happiness. A charming tale of love. Great epilogues.I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this novella.

Wedding Her Christmas Duke
Regency - An illegitimate young lady finds love at first sight with the owner of a hotel. Yet trust is fragile when he leaves her after one week. A Christmas party brings them together, but his secret could tear then apart. Will the magic of Christmas be the answer?
A feel good holiday romance. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this novella.

Rosemary

767 reviews11 followers

October 11, 2020

This book is a collection of Christmas stories by different Authors. I had the privilege and pleasure of reading an ARC from 4 of these authors, which I would like to give you my honest opinion.

The Marquess is Mine by Tamara Gill - What can I say about a book written by Tamara Gill? I love them all. This book was so nice, it put a smile on my face. Sarah and Giles knew each other when they were younger, he was her brother’s friend. Sarah felt Giles was her hero when he protected her from her mean older brother. After there was trouble in Sarah’s family, she felt Giles dropped her and her family, and he did. He loved her, but he followed what his father wanted him to do. Now years later they are at a Holiday party at her brother’s house and Giles wants to go back to what they were, friends and hopefully more. It is cute how Giles tells her he wants her back, and he keeps at it until he gets her. I really like Giles.
Christmas with a Czar by Emily Murdoch - This is the story about Maxim who is a Czar, who is spending Christmas at the Royal Court so he can talk to Prinny. It is also about Anne who is spending her last season with her Father and sister at St. James’ Court. Maxim and Anne meet, talk and then get caught in a compromising position, and they arrange a marriage of convenience. Maxim and Anne both have secrets which they did not want to share with each other, but when it comes out will love be strong enough. This little intrigue kept me guessing what each of their secrets were. You will enjoy this nice read.
The Rogue’s Secret by Stacy Reid & Giselle Marks - I have read books by Stacy Reid but not Giselle Marks, and if this book is any indication, they write great together. This is about Rupert, who Great-Uncle Frederick has left him a hidden treasure, the problem is Rupert cannot figure out where it is hidden. He meets Verity and instantly is attracted to her. Verity helps him look for the treasure and while she does, he wins her over to fall in love. This is very cute and at times I caught myself smiling. Rupert is very cute and understanding when Verity confesses her secret to him.
Secretly Marvellous by Virginia Taylor - This is the first book from this author I have ever read, and it was an easy, quick read. Beldon wants a wife, so he goes to the country to his friend house and meets his sisters. He thinks he will like the older sister, but then he falls for the younger more outspoken sister, Mary. Mary has never had a season, so he gives her a season and falls more in love with her. I will be honest and say I did not feel as much chemistry as I wanted with them, and I guess I really did not like that Mary’s secret was kept from Beldon. Also, there was some things I felt could have been explained more, (I like things nice and clean at the end) maybe we needed another chapter or an epilogue. But I will give this author another try.
If these four authors are an example of how enjoyable this collection is, I am going to go purchase it.
Again, I will say, I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of each of these books from the authors for my honest opinion.

Sandra

556 reviews9 followers

October 4, 2020

Secrets galore & festive fun!

I have been lucky to read two books from this anthology and if the rest are as steeped in delicious secrets, intrigue and scandalous fueled festive fun as these two have been then the entirety promises to be a wonderful collection of stories. One I am already itching to read.

Sydney Jane Baily's The Lady Who Stole Christmas:
A cleverly crafted novella that radiates wit, levity, intrigue, deception and discovery, as one unexpected meeting at a Christmastide house party leads to suspicion, frustrated tension and the rekindling of burning desire.
Passion, connection and electrified magnetic attraction draws Sarah to Miles but survivial, secrets and sisterly love force her to maintain her distance. Miles' strict sense of duty, misperceptions and principles may put up barriers between the pair but his flaring simmering desire and souldeep yearning can't keep him away. Which makes for one fun read as he suspects and remains doggedly vigilant in catching the tempestuous temptress, Sarah, in the hope of protecting her from, as he suspects, her light fingered tendencies. Meanwhile, she tries desperately to outwit Miles as she completes a task, so much harder in practice than in theory, whilst remaining both unsuspected and caught in the process - a task fast becoming impossible thanks to one sharp eyed, devilishly handsome inquisitor.
Overall, I loved this second chance to get it right romance! It had interesting characters in a cleverly written snapshot of history, with an intriguing plotline that holds its own and builds tension and anticipation to suspenseful and flirtatious heights!!!

Emily E.K. Murdoch's Christmas with a Czar:
Transported straight into Regency England and the pomp and forged airs of St James' Court, forms the humming backdrop for this secret lead plotline as two cultures and life changing secrets collide, manifest and slowing become revealed.
Murdoch balances the witty, flirtatious and touching well as the connection and attraction between Anne and Maxim jump from the page. Forced into close quarters thanks to a fake engagement born from the culmination of one steamy kiss, an irrate father set on preventing scandal and the simmering spark of instant attraction and humming desire, that catches them both unaware from the very first, grows into the possibility of so much more.
Whilst their brooding secrets breed mistrust and threaten to overshadow the promise of a truly happily ever after.
The ingrained vulnerabilities, hidden mistakes, masked histories and fragile trust make for good reading while their hopes, desires, building sexual tension and witty banter make for great chemistry.
Ultimately, a nice story that has the ability to make you smile, blush and even shed a tear.

Moreover, as the caption implies, unwrap the pleasure, sizzling passion and shattering secrets in these two delightful books. I can't wait to read the other featured novellas by the amazing authors in the lineup!

Gladys

13.9k reviews163 followers

October 6, 2020

Based on the two stories I have read from this holiday anthology, this is going to be a great set of reads. I thoroughly enjoyed The Marquess is Mine by Tamara Gill. This story was emotional, sweet, fun and had so much heart. Giles and Sarah's relationship was like a roller coaster. Over the course of their story they go from friends, to not, to maybe more. I found myself really moved by these two. I can't wait to read more as soon as possible. I also really liked, The Rogue’s Secret by Stacy Reid. This book offered a wonderful blend of romance, mystery and emotion. Rupert and Verity were easy to love and together they made a couple that I felt fully vested in. A quite charming read! This is my frank freely posted review.

Jennifer

2,906 reviews6 followers

maybe-later

November 28, 2020

I'm not sure if I'm going to read all the novellas, but the Collette Cameron story caught my eye.

Wedding Her Christmas Duke (Collette Cameron)- A run of the mill short romance by the author. For such a short work, I would've preferred there to be no mention of the hero's past, especially given the fact that the heroine didn't have one. Overall, this one was quite bland.

The Knot of a Knight (Linda Rae Sande)- Despite a shaky start, I found this one rather interesting and the ending charming. The hero was not a rake. Given that his father was a rather famous one and fathered at least five illegitimate children with four different women, I breathed a sigh of relief when I found out that the hero vowed to never be like his father. Phew. The heroine was also sweet and very likable. The story was a little fast and loose with propriety and whatnot, but the other historical details were solid. 2.5 stars.

The Marquess Is Mine (Tamara Gill)- 1 star. If this novella’s plot is any indication of the kind of romance that this author writes, I’ll pass. The “hero” rejects the heroine because his father told him to and proceeds to sleep with lots of women who look like her. For ten years. Then he claims to have loved only her all along. The writing was engaging enough, but the story itself wasn’t for me.

A Yuletide Miracle (Laurel O'Donnell)- The heroine was an utter ninny. 1 star.

I don't think I'm going to read the rest of these novellas.

Lana Birky

1,698 reviews22 followers

January 5, 2021

I look forward to reading all of the stories & will leave review as I finish each book. I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.

WEDDING HER CHRISTMAS DUKE by Collette Cameron - Baxter Bathhurst, Duke of San Sebastian, is a Scot & doesn't like the title he suddenly inherited five years ago but he does what he must do in London. Baxter is handsome, wealthy, honorable & he attempts to avoid the title seeking ladies while attending required social engagements. Justina Farthington is a bastard daughter & was raised by her aunt when she was dropped at her doorstep when Justina was ten years old. She & her aunt were heading home when a snowstorm stranded them in Bath & finally found rooms at the duke's Bathhurst Hotel. This is where Baxter & Justina meet & they have a love at first sight romance that is sweet & fun with humor & romance - I really enjoyed both Baxter & Justina & the secret each one of them had kept from the other one that still ends in a Merry Christmas!

THE ROGUE'S SECRET by Stacy Reid & Giselle Marks - I enjoyed this story very much - it had romance, intrigue, mystery, action, love & a HEA. Rupert Rogers' great uncle has died and left him the Ellesmere estate, the title of baron & a secret poem that has Rupert puzzled. If his uncle had not hinted treasure in the past, he might just say he was getting a little addled at the end of his life but he felt it was worth it to decipher the poem. Rupert & his neighbor, Lady Verity Hansard meet for the first time in a fun & romantic way & there is an instant attraction between them. They form a friendship and Lady Verity agrees to help Rupert solve the treasure mystery. This was a very entertaining story with a great couple & lovable secondary characters.

THE LADY WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS by Sydney Jane Baily - We're off to Forde Hall for a country Yuletide House Party. Viscount Miles Denbigh is handsome & single, but he is at the gathering to catch a sly thief who has been plaguing the Ton's parties & making off with their jewels. Miles did a little work for both Prinny & Bow Street when they called on him for help, but he was still a viscount & was welcomed at the wealthiest homes in Britain all his life. The lovely widow, Lady Sarah Worthington was in attendance & she had enjoyed the intimate company of Miles previously, but she had a plan for this house party & couldn't be swayed by the handsome Viscount - or could she? Of course, she could & so could he - this is a fun game of chase & accusations to find out "Whodunit" - you will love this couple!!!

THE MARQUESS IS MINE by Tamara Gill - The Ton - Lady Sarah Farley how horrible high society can treat one of their own & not blink an eye about it. Love - who could possibly want it, especially after her experience. But when someone from her past reappears, will it be more hurt and pain?
Lord Giles Longe, Marques Gordon remembers what good friends he & Sarah were & the pleasure they shared but he couldn't marry her back then as his father forbid the match. Everything is different now, he will find a way to make things right between them. It is Christmas - time for love, forgiveness, learning to trust & falling back in love or will they get a second chance? I highly recommend this wonderful, second chance Holiday book with such a lovable couple.

Linda J.

1,637 reviews15 followers

October 21, 2020

REVIEW IS FOR ALL 12 BOOKS - WHICH I PURCHASED!

I love bundles because you may discover some author's you are not familiar. Most of these author's I own many of their books, but I did find some new ones which are keepers for sure! All the blurbs are at the front and I wished they were at the beginning of each so I didn't have to go back and forth. But, that is a personal preference. Some of the stories just have a tad mention about Christmas. Some of spice level from hot to cool.

1. WEDDING HER CHRISTMAS DUKE - by Collette Cameron - 3.5 STARS

A Duke in trade, hiding the fact he is a Duke except when in London. The h, isn't sure of her birth father, but knows she was born on the wrong side of the blanket.

Some tense moments, misunderstandings that don't last forever, romance builds fast, secondary story on the Aunt broke my heart. Oh, how I hope the Aunt will get her own story sometime. This is a sweet story (only a tad of spice), little on Christmas theme except snow.

The h is friends with 7 women, who happen to marry all Dukes - of course this is fiction, and that part of the story was briefly touched on. The H/h even though not together for long, develop feelings. There is lovemaking, mild, outside of marriage, heat level 2 out of 5 if that and only described once. Lord's name used in vain a few times.

No cheating, HEA, little on romance and a tad of spice.

2. THE KNOT OF A KNIGHT by Linda Rae Sande - 4 STARS

I found the beginning confusing with different people telling the H the same thing. I went back and reread certain sections and was still unclear. Then as the story progressed, it all came together and was enjoyable, so stay with it. Does have a little spirit of Christmas, especially near the end.

The H was born on the wrong side of the blanket as the saying goes. His father recognized him and his siblings by 4 different women. There is a scene where the father is 42 talking to his son (the eldest), worrying about not being alive when his younger children are grown. It was a very touching scene.

The h we are told is just coming out of mourning for her deceased spouse, who was also her best friend. But, as the story is told, not all is as it seemed.

The H comes into the h's life based on people trying to match them together. There first few times together is touching as she comes to realize some truths when she was married. I loved the story about her father and something he did for his daughter which was was heart warming.

Lovemaking, outside of married, heat level 3.5 out of 5. It was filled with passion and not vulgar to me.

No cheating, little on romance and they both fall fast, HEA and steam.

3. THE MARGUESS IS MINE by Tamara Gill -3.5 STARS

I love when we are introduced to the character's when they are younger. Made me feel a connection to the H/h in how he protected her, but then when adults he didn't uphold that same value.

Although the story is written well, I could not get over many parts to the story. The brother who was shunned and treated awful by society and what his sister endured, would throw a party for a month for these same people.

The h forgave the H way to fast, didn't seem real to me. I wanted her to let him know at the beginning what his actions did to her and her brother. Yes, she does do it, but after they slept together. I wanted to know what conversations happened when the H had to dance his ex betrothed for the waltz?

Lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 2 out of 5. It wasn't filled with passion, because he didn't have to work getting her to bed.

No cheating, HEA, no romance and some spice.

4. A YULETIDE MIRACLE by Laurel O'Donnell - 3.5 STARS

Simple story of a tale that grew and grew. Some anxious moments wondering what was true or not. Add to that young men trying to bring more fear to the tale.

It read more as a fairy tale to me. I liked the H and his no nonsense approach to life and the tale. The fear of the h came through especially her trying to separate tale from reality.

No cheating, HEA, few kisses and clean. Liked the epilogue less than a year in the future.

5. THE LADY WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS by Sydney Jane Baily - 4 STARS

At first I didn't care for the h. The story starts where she meets up with the H when she is stranded on the road going to a house party. She is a widow and we learn quickly, she's had two romps with the H previously. I like my h with more morals, so it took me awhile to warm to her.

The H thinks she is a thief so tries to keep his eye on her. You realize not all is as it appears as the story unfolds. The is a young women who is after the H and I loved how he put her in her place - was priceless!!

There're are moments of suspense and funny happenings.

Lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 3.5 out of 5 and described twice. Starts out as more lust but turns into a romance that builds slowly.

No cheating by our h/H, HEA and some spice.

6. CHRISTMAS WITH A CZAR by Emily E.K.Murdoch - 5 STARS

My goodness more twists and turns that kept this reader on her toes. Not many character's, but the ones we are introduced too are amazing, written with depth.

This is only my 4th story by this author and I think my favorite. Just when I thought I knew where the story was heading, surprise!

We have a Czar from Russia who may or may not be who he claims. We have the h who also has secrets. I am not a fan of stories with secrets, but in this case, I understood why both held theirs close to the chest.

Lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 3 out of 5, described twice and filled with passion.

No cheating, HEA, romance builds slowly, great banter and some spice. I enjoyed the epilogue because it held more surprises.

7. A SCOT MOST WANTED by Angelique Armae - 4 STARS

I did enjoy the story, but it felt like you came in the middle of it. The h/H had a relationship 2 years prior as did another couple. Don't know how they met, how long they were together etc. Then boom - both couples go their separate ways. I also had a question about the horse that is unique and part of robberies. Didn't people know who owned this unique horse? So this kept it from being 5 star review for me.

There is lovemaking, outside of marriage and described once, heat level 3 out of 5.

Some twists and suspense. I did enjoy the author's writing style, just needed more info on somethings.

No cheating, HEA, romance mostly off page from 2 years ago and then they take up again and some spice.

8. SECRETLY MARVELLOUS by Virginia Taylor - 4 STARS

This was my first story by this author and it really pulled me in. I loved the H from the first to the last page. The h kept a secret that caused me to not care for her. I dislike secrets in stories and the h's secret is never divulged? WHAT?! Also, the h leaves and never explained why she left and he doesn't ask. This was a 5 star read until the ending and how the h went about tricking the H. The story ends abruptly so be warned.

The h sent different messages about her feelings on the H. I felt throughout most of the story the h used the H. In the beginning my heart went out for the h. She had a beautiful sister and no-one noticed her. I liked how the H was kind and caring and saw something in the h that others didn't. But, to me she was didn't deserve the H.

There is lovemaking, outside of marriage - heat level 2.5 out of 5. Her reasons for wanting to make love with him was awful, why not be honest?

I did enjoy the journey and the interactions so I raised my review. No cheating, HEA, romance and a tad of spice.

9. YULETIDE SECRETS by S. Cinders - 5 STARS

Another new author for me and I really enjoyed this bundle.

This story has our h being older. Having faced 5+ Seasons, she leaves London and eventually makes her life with her Godmother. What a great character!

There are twin boys who added laughter to the story with their antics and their cousin 2 years older that is a sweetheart and so mature. I am now following this author on 3 platforms so not to miss a story. I would love to read one on Millie.

There is passionate lovemaking outside of marriage and within - heat level 4.5 out of 5. Since I felt a connection to this couple it was filled with love.

The H is a kind and caring man and with Millie and the Godmother they play matchmaker.

We have a nasty villain who gets theirs's in the end! I enjoyed the epilogue 5 years in the future.

No cheating, HEA, romance builds slowly and steam.

10. ONE SCANDALOUS CHRISTMAS by J. Burrelli - 5 STARS

Did at times I figured out where the story was heading, yes. But along the way were some surprises and I liked the character's so made it an interesting read.

Another new author for me, and will be searching out more of her work.

There is lovemaking, within marriage heat level 2 out of 5 if that.

Misunderstandings that were caused by others. They didn't know what to believe of each other until the h got mad and explained her side of the story, which prompted the H to do the same.

We have a mother and sister who don't treat the h fairly, but her father and aunt made up for it. Loved the aunt!! Of course, a villain who was very transparent and the h wasn't fooled.

No cheating, HEA, epilogue one year in future and a tad of spice.

11. THE ROGUE'S SECRET by Stacy Reid & Giselle Marks - 4- STARS

I am a fan of Stacy Reid, but Giselle Marks is unknown to me. This had some mystery, searching for a treasure and romance built fast, but they made a couple you could believe in.

About 3/4 is dragged for awhile for me but improved on the ending.

Lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5.

I enjoyed their honest dialogue, no cheating, HEA, some romance and spice.

12. THE SECRETS HE KEEPS - by Amy Sandas - 4 STARS

I must admit, if this was a stand alone story, knowing the subject matter I would have passed it up. I am not a fan of brothels or madam's who run them. I like my h's to be inexperienced, and our h is far from it.

The H offered a different service but was just as experienced as the h. Be warned the language is crude and lovemaking descriptive. Heat level 5 out of 5.

I did enjoy the softer part of the story with her brother and his family. Far from a Christmas feel good story, as you would think in the traditional sense. This is a story of an h who has been used since she was young and took her life in her own hands. (ljb)

Jill

1,951 reviews18 followers

One Scandalous Christmas by Jane Burrelli
A great second chance love story. Kitty thinks Robert left her, not knowing her mother sent him away without her or her father’s knowledge. Years later they meet again and because of a caught misstep they end up married. There is a HEA but a lot happens first which makes this a great read. I enjoyed the story and would highly recommend it as a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.

Kat Tolle

639 reviews13 followers

October 6, 2020

I just love holiday themed book and this one was really Great, don’t you. Secretly Marvelous by Virginia Taylor is a true original. If any of the rest of these stories in this collection are half as good I just can’t wait to read them all. This is my first read of Virginia’s and I am so pleasantly surprised at how wonderful her writing is. I found it easy to read, so very charming, terrific descriptions and lovable characters. This story has a dark secret, not being worthy, kindness, a mother’s acceptance, a betrothed of connivence, a loving brother, guilt over 2 deaths and of course love. I highly recommend this book.

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.

Debbie Brown

2,035 reviews18 followers

January 8, 2021

The Marquess is Mine by Tamara Gill
Hugh Farley Duke of St. Albans and his sister, Lady Sarah Farley were childhood friends with Giles the Marquess of Gordan. Sarah has always been in love with Giles, but that all came to a halt when Hugh took the blame for something his older brother did and he was forced to leave England. Sarah felt like Giles not only rejected her, he abandoned her family’s time of need, what sort of friend was he to Hugh, to her? Hugh is now the Duke and he’s renewing old acquaintance, including Giles. Giles has been keeping a secret from Sarah all these years. Sarah and Giles rekindle their friendship and romance bloom between them a second time, but what happens when she finds out his secret, will she forgive him or love him always? I have voluntarily read and reviewed this wonderful story filled with love, redemption and a second chance romance.

The Rogues Secret by Stacy Reid & Giselle Marks
Lord Rupert Roger’s uncle has just died and left him with Ellesmere estate, the title of baron & a secret poem and riddle to solve to find a hidden treasure. But first he must deal with a very lovely Lady Verity Hansard who’s climbing over his walled in garden to get some mistletoe. I love their first meeting its fun and I love their witty banter as they decide to work together to solve the mysterious riddle and end up finding the best treasure of all, a sizzle romance and love.

The lady Who Stole Christmas by Sydney Jane Baily
Viscount Miles Denbigh is at a country Yuletide house party to catch a thief who’s been stealing London society of their jewels. He meets the lovely widow Lady Sarah Worthington on the way party too, he knows to be on alert after their last encounter his diamond stick pin came up missing. Miles knows he must loose site to his goal to catch a thief even if he’s like to sample her delectable body one more time. Sarah would love nothing better than carry on with Miles, but she has a plan for, a role to play and one large burden to relieve herself of by the time she leaves the Yuletide party. I love this crazy twisted whodunit mystery at the house party.

I have voluntarily read and reviewed these excellent stories of secrets, scandal and redemption.

Zena

2,312 reviews11 followers

Worth reading!
I have read a few of the books in this Anthology and will add to my review as I read the books.

**The Knot of a Knight - Linda Rae Sande
Blessed with a caring father and step-mother, Sir Randolph Roderick immerses himself in his work rather than setting out to find himself a wife or a lover after losing his wife shortly after the birth of his son.
Lady Xenobia Dunsworth is widowed and has become a bit of a recluse until someone decides to meddle in their lives.
I loved these two characters who hide away from life in their own ways until they meet and then there is a spark between them which soon flares into full-blown and passionate love.
This story is written with so much compassion for these two lost souls and there is also a bit of naughtiness rearing its head every now and then.

**The Lady Who Stole Christmas - Sydney Jane Bailey
Miles is convinced Sarah is a thief because at all the parties she has been to items of value have been stolen.
Sarah is doing something but it isn't what he thinks.
The heat between these two characters is amazing, the story is lovely and the current Christmastime party is quite fascinating. Besides anything, the party just carries on and on for days.
This story is very entertaining and I really enjoyed every moment of it.

These reviews are based on each particular story. They are given voluntarily and are my unbiased opinion of each. I received and read an Advance Reader Copies (ARC) of these books.

Cindy C.

1,142 reviews13 followers

It's Twelvetide in the country at Lady Macroun's Christmas house party, come eat, drink and be merry... maybe some mischief too in The Lady Who Stole Christmas! Viscount Miles Denbigh is one of Prinny's trusted investigators and he is out to catch a jewel thief in this fun frolic of a house party. Lady Sarah is on a mission and Denbigh is not helping one bit! Try as she might she just can't get around Denbigh's interference or the smoldering passion in his gaze. With interesting characters, clever and witty banter between the different protagonist and just right for those who want a little spice in their reading life.

On a cold dark wintery night beside a bonfire a story was told and soon the legend of The Yule Cat began. A Yuletime Miracle is woven from the beginning to end with threads of intrigue, mystery, suspense and love. Thora has never forgotten when she attacked by the Yule Cat when she was young and each year at Yuletime fear encases the whole town. Bastian doesn't believe in the Yule Cat and he is determined to prove it is just a myth but as Yuletide approaches a number of things start to happen people begin to believe the Yule Cat has returned.

Jill Anna Freeman

549 reviews10 followers

October 6, 2020

” Secretly Marvellous” by Virginia Taylor part of the ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Secret” Anthology is a tale of one Lord Beldon Westerham, a somber man too long having grieved for lost loved ones and Lady Mary Thornton...a woman too long in the shadow of her sister the Lady Lucy...Two souls in need of the other...one with a Secret too terrible to divulge...and the other with a need for Love to great not to fulfill....Will Christmastide find them happily wed or will their pasts them apart?!?
Read and see. Much enjoyed and Highly Recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Copy of this book.

Chrissi

1,578 reviews11 followers

I read Yuletide Secrets by S. Cinders and loved it. I have been waiting rather impatiently, I may add, for Ian and his daughter’s story. It did not disappoint, and Anne was the perfect match for Ian and his daughter.
It’s always refreshing to read stories like this, and while there’s definitely fire, I quite enjoyed the slow burn and almost innocent flirting between the two characters. Throw in a matchmaking god mother, her young sidekick, and two teen boys and you have yourself a tale filled with giggles, mayhem and innocence.
S. Cinders delivers this magic time and time again with her stories and if you haven’t dived into one, you truly should.

Susan F

176 reviews

christmas great-cover historical-romance

I have read several of the stories in this anthology and plan to order the book when it is released. The stories are steamy but have the holiday spirit. Duncan's Christmas is one of my favorites by Ellie St. Clair.

Lori D

4,079 reviews129 followers

October 10, 2021

What's better than stories by some of the best author's of historical romance!

Wedding her Duke by Collette Cameron
"Tantalizing. Fascinating. Enthralling. And so many more words ending in ing."Oh yes, Baxter Bathhurst, was that and so much more. A Scot, now an English Duke. A man who had a collection of the wounded. Birds, dogs, employees and yes, he was swoonworthy. Sorry I digress...
On their way back home to Bristol, due to the snow, Justina and her Aunt Emily, had to seek shelter in Bath and they ended up at a new establishment, the Bathhurst Hotel and Spa. It was owned by Baxter and as he and Justina met, the attraction was almost instant. Of course they both had secrets... Nobody knew he was a Duke and Emily had her own secret.
Fate steps in and they meet again at the Sutcliffes' Christmastide house party. I will leave it at that although I want to tell you the entire story, it is so wonderful, marvelous, heartwarming and ... well it is written by one of my very favorite authors, so what more can you expect? The perfect Christmastide romance.. with snow..
BUT Balderdash I want Aunt Emily's story!!

A Yuletide Miracle by Laurel O'Donnell
It was the Yule Cat that jumped out of the tree and left three scratches on Thora's cheek but Bastian had saved her. A tale to scare children, yet Thor believed it. Bastian had saved her when the beast jumped out of a tree all those years ago, but he never saw a thing.
Now years later, Thora still maintains everyone needs to be protected from this folklore and is so upset when her father stops having the men around the castle set traps. Bastian is determined to help Thora see reason and that the Yule Cat is not real. Loved this story as it is a great example of how fears can rule your life, but trusting in others is sometimes the best option. So sweet!

The Lady Who Stole Christmas by Sydney Jane Baily
Attending Lady Macroun's Christmastide House Party, Lady Sarah Worthington and Lord Miles Denbigh meet up again, after having shared a couple of rendezvous, might I say, previously. Unfortunately, Miles was conducting some undercover work for Prinny, to help nab a member of the Ton who seemed to be stealing items of worth from the guest of such gatherings, and Sarah, well, that was another matter! She was returning the stolen jewelry to those it belonged. What ? Of yes this is a caper!
I adored Sarah and Miles. The attraction sizzled and with a game of cat and mouse, it was simply delightful! I also have to say that Sydney threw in so many new words and names of games that it was so much fun to look them up! Brilliant!

The Marquess is Mine by Tamara Gill
"Lord Giles Longe, Marquess Gordan. Her hero." At fourteen Sarah had been smitten with Giles as he defended her against her older brother that summer. She only had four years until her season and then he would be hers.
Well things change and now, at twenty eight, she still held the hurt from Giles rebuff of her when she had innocently tried to kiss him years ago. Now she was stuck with her at the month long house party.
Such a delicious story that warmed my heart. Second chances are one of my favorites and Tamara Gill pulled this one together perfectly. Misunderstandings, scandal and an off the charts attraction that made me sigh. Loved Sarah and Giles who were meant to be together. Perfect...

Christmas with a Czar by Emily E K Murdoch
Forced by her father to attend St James Court for two weeks at Christmas, Anne only wanted to be done with it and return home. But she had promised this one last chance to find a husband. But she had a secret.
Maxim was at the Royal Court to talk to Prinny. He needed to be acknowledged as the rightful Czar of Russia. Then he could travel back home and be done with the English. But he had a secret.
As these two meet, there is an attraction. But he was not there to pay attention to women and she was not there to find a husband.
But you know how fate, or kismet or just a chance meeting works sometimes... It is just out of your hands! A delightful short story that will keep you entertained!

More to come!

Lesley

2,454 reviews17 followers

February 13, 2021

Review for The Lady Who Stole Christmas by S J Baily.
A fun and steamy story. Lady Sarah Worthington, a young and beautiful widow, inveigles herself an invitation to a houseparty in order to secretly restore to their owners, items stolen by her sister. Her task is made more difficult by Lord Miles Denbigh’s close scrutiny, he might be attracted to her but he is also convinced that she is a thief. Highly enjoyable.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Having originally read and reviewed an advanced copy of the above story from the author, I later went on to purchase my own copy. Here are my reviews of the other stories.

Wedding her Christmas Duke 4* by Collette Cameron - Baxter hides his true identity because he doesn’t like how people view him differently when they know of his title. However, when the lady he has fallen for unexpectedly finds out, she feels betrayed and humiliated - how will he regain her trust?
The Knot of a Knight 4* by Linda Rae Sande - Lady Julia thinks to matchmake her cousin Xenobia, a young widow who has just finished her period of mourning by telling her husband’s friend that Xenobia has a timid filly in need of training! As you can guess when they meet, this is a source of misunderstanding and then when they understand the truth, embarrassment. However from this unpromising start, a friendship and more is born. As an aside, the author obviously doesn’t understand the meaning of a spendthrift as she equates it with someone who is parsimonious with their money!
The Marquess is Mine 4* by Tamara Gill - Lady Sarah’s heart was broken by Lord Gordon ten years previously, how can she now believe that he truly wants her and can she ever forgive him when she learns the truths of the past. Enjoyable story that ties in with the characters in Kiss Me Duke.
A Yuletide Miracle 3* by Laurel O’Donnell - An enjoyable story except for the raccoons (which are not found in the British Isles) and a cat with brown eyes (but cats don't get brown or black eyes like people do; the darkest color you'll see in a cat's eyes is a deep, rich copper.)
Christmas with a Czar 2* by Emily E.K. Murdoch - I struggled to get through this - oh this story so needed a good editor!
A Scot most Wanted 3* by Angelique Armae - Felt there were a number of holes in this story and unfortunately I didn’t really feel a connection with the characters and I could have done without the typos.
Secretly Marvellous 3* by Virginia Taylor - Both H and h start out in this book with the intention of using each other and it ends with a whopping secret still untold. As I wasn’t sure how I felt about that and the typos in the story badly distracted me, I doubt whether I will read more by this author. I certainly didn’t connect with any of the characters.
Yuletide Secrets 3* by S. Cinders - A story set in Brighton with two mischievous boys; a young girl and her father and a lonely, on the shelf woman whose godmother does a spot of matchmaking. Loved the children, not so sure about the hero. Note: I thought the brother of a Duke had the courtesy title of Lord, but not in this case.
One Scandalous Christmas 4* by J. Burrelli - Misunderstandings abound in this second chance romance, with an ambitious mother and a villainous French peer.
The Rogue’s Secret 5* by Stacy Reid and Giselle Marks - Love at first sight, treasure and attempted murder. An exciting and enjoyable novella.
The Secrets he Keeps 4* by Amy Sandas - New London businessman and ex-lothario Erik Maxwell takes on brothel owner/manager Callista Hale in the hopes of making her his. But Madame Pendragon is a tough nut to crack. A sensual, absorbing read.

Elsbeth

837 reviews

October 15, 2020

This is a review of two of the stories in this book.

Christmas With a Czar by Emily Murdoch.
It is a story in the style of her series Ravishing Regencies. Romance, passion and secrets. I really enjoyed this story! A bit weird to read a passionate scene about someone who has my daughter's name (Annika, who is only 11 years old)... But I hope my daughter will also find her HEA, just like this Annika.
I received a copy of this story and chose to review it.

My review of One Scandalous Christmas by Jane Burrelli:
This was my first story by this author. And I have to say: I really liked it! The main characters have a past together and you want to find out what happened. There is romance, passion and aunt Emmie made me laugh!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

goodread-authors

Vanessa Brooks

Author 49 books635 followers

One Scandalous Christmas by Jane Burrelli -

Kitty and Robert have a past in which Kitty belives that Robert abandoned her, leaving her heart bruised. Some years later they are reunited and all those deeply buried feelings re-emerge leaving poor Kitty bewildered, hurt and angry. Can Robert make things right between them or are these star crossed lovers never to reach an understanding? There is more behind their damaged past than Kitty is aware of, but will what has gone before now stand in their way again, or can love prevail?
I am not giving anything away, you must read this romantic, witty tale to find out for yourself.
A lovely Christmas story.

Carole Burant

1,277 reviews36 followers

One Scandalous Christmas by J. Burrelli

This story is part of the "Have Yourself a Merry Little Secret" anthology and I have only read this story so far.

"Wallflower she may be, but never a shrinking violet"! That describes Kitty perfectly:) Given an ultimatum by her father to find a man to marry, mostly ignored by her mother in favour of her sister and trying to get away from a would be suitor, Kitty meets someone from her past....Robert, the man she had been in love with but who had deserted her years ago. Robert and Kitty are given a second chance but not before misunderstandings and untruths have been laid bare. An enjoyable story but the only thing I must say is that Christmas is not mentioned until the very end, so to me it's not really a Christmas story!

I was given an ARC of this story via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

Rachel

536 reviews

November 18, 2020

This anthology of novellas is described as "Yuletide historical romances". Most have only the vaguest reference to the time of year and are NOT centered around Yuletide.

"Wedding Her Christmas Duke" - Baxter, a duke, owns a hotel and Justina is an impoverished miss. She and her aunt come to stay, he protects her from harm, a misunderstanding, see each other again at a house party. Pleasant read. 4 stars

"The Knot of a Knight" - Xenobia (what a name!) and Sir Randolph meet courtesy of a mutual friend and a misunderstanding. I liked both of these characters a lot. He is a strong H, but also so gentle with her. 4 stars

"The Marquess Is Mine" - Sarah and Giles, She is the sister of a duke, hurt by choices made in the past by her brother and then Giles, does not trust him when she sees him again 8 years later. But he loves her and sees it as a second chance. She loves him, too, but the hurts of the past are difficult to overcome. 3 stars

"A Yuletide Miracle" - The story is about the legend of the Yule Cat and how it has wrecked a village. The "romance" is a totally minor subplot. I made myself finish this. 1 star

"The Lady Who Stole Christmas" - She is a thief and was a turnoff from the beginning. DNF

"Christmas With a Czar" - Odd story, DNF

"A Scot Most Wanted" - She dresses up as a highwaywoman to avenge a wrong. Not for me. DNF

"Secretly Marvellous" - Lord Westerham decides that he should wed the poorly dressed, spinster Lady Mary, the sister of an old friend. She agrees if she first has a London Season. They are both plain spoken verging on mean. They fall in love and the whole story builds because of this huge secret that she has that she "knows" will ruin his love for her. When he should figure it out, but doesn't, she decides some secrets are best kept. Very anticlimactic. 3 stars

"Yuletide Secrets" - Lady Anne moves to Brighton to live as a companion to her aging aunt after 8 seasons. Ian Stanford is a friend of the aunt's and doesn't want a wife. But he can't help but fall for Anne who is so kind to his daughter. Subplot with the villain was tedious and sloppily done. 4 stars

"One Scandalous Christmas" - Old flames meet again, both upset at the other over lies told to them by others. They stay angry even after that the truth comes to light. 3 stars

"The Rogue's Secret" - Fun story, lots of typos, the villain portion of the story was too prominent. 3 stars

"The Secrets He Keeps" - DNS

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Rose Blue

644 reviews27 followers