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Merry Misrule
She vowed she would never be in his company again.
When Joanna Merryton receives an invitation to Christmas at Briercrest Hall, she accepts with the assurance that her friend Caroline’s brother is still away at war. For Joanna remains scarred by the pranks Lord Elijah Kentmore pulled on her all those years ago. She does, however, long for a Christmas with her closest friend, one in which she can, for a brief holiday, enjoy a respite from her work as a seamstress and appreciate the extravagance of Christmas in the home of a marquess.
Lord Elijah Kentmore has returned home from war just in time for Christmas, only to find that nothing has changed at Briercrest Hall, while he is but a shadow of the man he used to be. Many of his memories of old have fled, only to be replaced by others he wouldn’t wish upon anyone. All he wants now is to be respected for the man he has become, instead of the man he used to be.
When Elijah attempts to capture the beautiful, mysterious woman under the mistletoe, he is shocked by her dismissal—and by the news that the ugly duckling turned swan is, in fact, his sister’s friend Joanna. Now all he wants for Christmas is to win her over and convince her that he is not the man she remembers. Can he ever earn the forgiveness of a woman he so wronged?
When Joanna Merryton receives an invitation to Christmas at Briercrest Hall, she accepts with the assurance that her friend Caroline’s brother is still away at war. For Joanna remains scarred by the pranks Lord Elijah Kentmore pulled on her all those years ago. She does, however, long for a Christmas with her closest friend, one in which she can, for a brief holiday, enjoy a respite from her work as a seamstress and appreciate the extravagance of Christmas in the home of a marquess.
Lord Elijah Kentmore has returned home from war just in time for Christmas, only to find that nothing has changed at Briercrest Hall, while he is but a shadow of the man he used to be. Many of his memories of old have fled, only to be replaced by others he wouldn’t wish upon anyone. All he wants now is to be respected for the man he has become, instead of the man he used to be.
When Elijah attempts to capture the beautiful, mysterious woman under the mistletoe, he is shocked by her dismissal—and by the news that the ugly duckling turned swan is, in fact, his sister’s friend Joanna. Now all he wants for Christmas is to win her over and convince her that he is not the man she remembers. Can he ever earn the forgiveness of a woman he so wronged?
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2020
236 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Ellie St. Clair
209 books374 followersEllie St. Clair writes heartwarming Regency romances with spirited heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and happily ever afters. Her passion for history shines through in richly drawn characters and romances brimming with irresistible tension.
A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.
When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.
Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.
Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.
A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.
When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.
Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.
Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 21, 2024
It just seemed shallow. Maybe my tastes are changing from all the Regencies I've read in the past several months. I liked this author's Bluestocking series (books 2 and 4, especially)--until the most recent book, and I was disappointed by this book, also. There are just too many anachronisms and questionable character decisions, with everything but the kitchen sink thrown into the plot with no real depth. I know our society is striving toward inclusiveness, but there are just too many factors at play and odd character decisions for me to really enjoy this book.
The hero, Eli, is the multiracial son of a marquess, which is an interesting idea, but it's never explored, as if the Ton would have totally ignored his heritage. He was a prankster in his youth and played some low tricks on the heroine, Joanna, when she was young, so you have the "enemies to friends" trope right away. You also have the "war hero with PTSD" trope, as Eli can't remember much of his past due to a battle injury. Although I liked how accepting Joanna was of his memory issues, this convenient plot device frees Eli from closely examining his past actions toward her, which irked me. He hadn't just been a kid with a crush doing silly things to get a girl's attention; he stole a family heirloom from Joanna which he was never made to return and repeatedly humiliated her just because she wasn't attractive and lacked his money and status. So we have unchecked, malicious behavior that any mentally healthy person would question.
Eli's family is casual in their manner and interactions considering their stations (much too casual for the time period honestly), but I continued to feel sorry for the put-upon heroine, who often seemed at the mercy of a snotty former flame of Eli's and Eli's brother. Joanna is a barely-getting-by seamstress with a bit of a muddled backstory and some blue blood, and somehow she's besties with Eli's sister because they went to school together (which is stretching plausibility). There's a subplot involving the sister and her completely unlikely marriage to a footman which serves to distract the family and makes the story even less plausible.
This book may have caught me on a bad day, but I got quite irritated early on with Eli's aggressiveness toward Joanna and how he kept barging into her room, violating her personal space. Not only would he have completely ruined her if he had been caught doing that, it showed a lack of respect for her. (Am I a prude, or even today, isn't barging into a woman's room while she's half-dressed and forcing her to let you dress her considered pretty poor behavior?) Eli's character is given some vulnerability as the book goes on, and he does return her family heirloom in a cute scene, but it still felt a bit unresolved.
Also, Eli's sister seems concerned about protecting Joanna from him at first, basically ignores the two of them for her own concerns, then somehow knows as the book goes on that they're romantically involved. Where was the scene where Joanna confided in her friend about her feelings toward Eli?I felt as if a chapter were missing.
Maybe my biggest gripe with the book is Alex, and the lack of acknowledgment of his nasty, spiteful behavior. He is not a good person, but nobody addresses his behavior in a straightforward or constructive manner. Instead, there is a ridiculous payback prank orchestrated that could have led to some real hurt in the family.
Bottom line: If you're going to include PTSD, brain trauma, bullying, interracial themes, and class disparity in a story, I feel as if you should try to address them with some depth. If you can't, don't introduce them all in one book.
The hero, Eli, is the multiracial son of a marquess, which is an interesting idea, but it's never explored, as if the Ton would have totally ignored his heritage. He was a prankster in his youth and played some low tricks on the heroine, Joanna, when she was young, so you have the "enemies to friends" trope right away. You also have the "war hero with PTSD" trope, as Eli can't remember much of his past due to a battle injury. Although I liked how accepting Joanna was of his memory issues, this convenient plot device frees Eli from closely examining his past actions toward her, which irked me. He hadn't just been a kid with a crush doing silly things to get a girl's attention; he stole a family heirloom from Joanna which he was never made to return and repeatedly humiliated her just because she wasn't attractive and lacked his money and status. So we have unchecked, malicious behavior that any mentally healthy person would question.
Eli's family is casual in their manner and interactions considering their stations (much too casual for the time period honestly), but I continued to feel sorry for the put-upon heroine, who often seemed at the mercy of a snotty former flame of Eli's and Eli's brother. Joanna is a barely-getting-by seamstress with a bit of a muddled backstory and some blue blood, and somehow she's besties with Eli's sister because they went to school together (which is stretching plausibility). There's a subplot involving the sister and her completely unlikely marriage to a footman which serves to distract the family and makes the story even less plausible.
This book may have caught me on a bad day, but I got quite irritated early on with Eli's aggressiveness toward Joanna and how he kept barging into her room, violating her personal space. Not only would he have completely ruined her if he had been caught doing that, it showed a lack of respect for her. (Am I a prude, or even today, isn't barging into a woman's room while she's half-dressed and forcing her to let you dress her considered pretty poor behavior?) Eli's character is given some vulnerability as the book goes on, and he does return her family heirloom in a cute scene, but it still felt a bit unresolved.
Also, Eli's sister seems concerned about protecting Joanna from him at first, basically ignores the two of them for her own concerns, then somehow knows as the book goes on that they're romantically involved. Where was the scene where Joanna confided in her friend about her feelings toward Eli?I felt as if a chapter were missing.
Maybe my biggest gripe with the book is Alex, and the lack of acknowledgment of his nasty, spiteful behavior. He is not a good person, but nobody addresses his behavior in a straightforward or constructive manner. Instead, there is a ridiculous payback prank orchestrated that could have led to some real hurt in the family.
Bottom line: If you're going to include PTSD, brain trauma, bullying, interracial themes, and class disparity in a story, I feel as if you should try to address them with some depth. If you can't, don't introduce them all in one book.
November 13, 2020
4.5 STARS
The H was a unique individual. At first you think he and his brother are in Peter Pan mode. You soon realize, he has been damaged by war. Wounds that you can't see visually. Of course, the brother never grew up.
One aspect that I felt would have caused an uproar was the H's great grandma being African. In this time period it would have been frowned upon. The h was aware of it and remarked on his dark eyes, curly hair and skin that looked tan. Wouldn't the TON not treated the whole family well?
The h has had a difficult life and has too work for a living. Of course, this is frowned upon too, but since she is best friends with the h she is more of less accepted.
So many layers to this story, that I couldn't put it down. You get more than one story that is interwoven with our H/h. I liked the honest dialogue the h had in the beginning with the H. There is a misunderstanding that lasts less than 1/2 day. I wanted the H/h to both confront the H's brother about the bet. That part he got off to easily for all the heartache he caused.
There is lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 and I believe only described twice.
I enjoyed the epilogue and how it tidy up everything. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and some steam.
I received an advanced copy, all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
The H was a unique individual. At first you think he and his brother are in Peter Pan mode. You soon realize, he has been damaged by war. Wounds that you can't see visually. Of course, the brother never grew up.
One aspect that I felt would have caused an uproar was the H's great grandma being African. In this time period it would have been frowned upon. The h was aware of it and remarked on his dark eyes, curly hair and skin that looked tan. Wouldn't the TON not treated the whole family well?
The h has had a difficult life and has too work for a living. Of course, this is frowned upon too, but since she is best friends with the h she is more of less accepted.
So many layers to this story, that I couldn't put it down. You get more than one story that is interwoven with our H/h. I liked the honest dialogue the h had in the beginning with the H. There is a misunderstanding that lasts less than 1/2 day. I wanted the H/h to both confront the H's brother about the bet. That part he got off to easily for all the heartache he caused.
There is lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 and I believe only described twice.
I enjoyed the epilogue and how it tidy up everything. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance and some steam.
I received an advanced copy, all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
January 18, 2021
His new Christmas wish was "To win over Joanna Merryton." Eli had not remembered who the stunning young lady was until his sister reminded him. Reminded him of all the terrible pranks he had played on her when he was younger. Before he went off to war and was now having problems with his memory..
Joanna could not believe Eli was home. She had accepted the Christmas invitation from her best friend who she had not seen in a long time due to knowing he would not be there. But he had apologized profusely once he realized, or was told who she was..
A wonderful story with two characters that stole my heart. Eli with his life changed from war and trying to find himself and Joanna, who only wanted love. Perfect Christmas story.
Joanna could not believe Eli was home. She had accepted the Christmas invitation from her best friend who she had not seen in a long time due to knowing he would not be there. But he had apologized profusely once he realized, or was told who she was..
A wonderful story with two characters that stole my heart. Eli with his life changed from war and trying to find himself and Joanna, who only wanted love. Perfect Christmas story.
November 4, 2020
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the elements to this story that were different from most histroms. The heroine works for a living, the hero has a grandmother who was African and the hero's sister falls in love with a servant.
I really liked the elements to this story that were different from most histroms. The heroine works for a living, the hero has a grandmother who was African and the hero's sister falls in love with a servant.
November 13, 2020
What a great Christmas story.. Great storyline great characters and the 2 happily afters is just something you can't miss out on.. Ellie always delivers a great riveting Christmas story..
I received this as an arc in exchange for an honest review and these are my purely my words..
I received this as an arc in exchange for an honest review and these are my purely my words..
November 2, 2020
A great love story but along the way there were some misunderstandings, hurt feelings and unexpected danger. After returning from the war, Elijah who is dealing with some memory loss meets Joanna but did not recognize her. The more Elijah is around Joanna, he comes to realize that he wants to have a relationship with her and sets out to prove he has changed for the better. There is a happy ending but a lot happens first. I enjoyed the story and would highly recommend it as a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2021
Pranks!
Oh, the difference in opinion between the upper and lower class as to just how amusing a prank is! I guess if you are the one pranking, then it is amusing and if it is being done to you, then its not but when the tables are turned on the prankster, it's no longer a laughing matter!
This is a valuable lesson Elijah and his brother had to learn.
The story shows the wonderful chemistry between Joanna and Elijah and their characters evolve nicely as the story progresses. In the end, love wins, of course and there is a lovely happy every after.
A beautiful story, well told!
Oh, the difference in opinion between the upper and lower class as to just how amusing a prank is! I guess if you are the one pranking, then it is amusing and if it is being done to you, then its not but when the tables are turned on the prankster, it's no longer a laughing matter!
This is a valuable lesson Elijah and his brother had to learn.
The story shows the wonderful chemistry between Joanna and Elijah and their characters evolve nicely as the story progresses. In the end, love wins, of course and there is a lovely happy every after.
A beautiful story, well told!
November 4, 2020
A thoughtfully written Christmas story about past pranks that hurt, a war that caused mental anguish, trying to overcome the past and finding each other
November 9, 2020
This is a great Christmas story of forgiveness and changing ones views on following the ton rules or your heart. It is very different as there is really two stories in one.
Joanna Merryton has been invited to the home of her best friend Caroline in the country for Christmas. She has missed seeing her friend. She has stayed away for five years after Caroline's brother played a lot of mean, unkind pranks and jokes on her. She was an overweight child then and Elijah embarrassed and shammed her. Caroline promises her that he will not be there. Unfortunately, they didn't have phones back then and none of the family knew Elijah was on his way home.
Elijah is returning home from the war just in time for Christmas. All he really wanted was some peace and quiet but at his family home, Briercrest Hall. But he forgot how much his family celebrates Christmas and walks into the middle of the party. Elijah has been wounded in the war but not with an injury one can see. He has had a bad head injury and has lost a lot of his memories. When he sees a beautiful young lady standing under the mistletoe. When he approaches her, he is shocked by her being afraid of him. Most ladies are attracted to him. Joanna tells Elijah off and tells him to never brother her again. The last time was enough.
Elijah set out to prove not only to Joanna that he is different, but also to his family. He has a lot of making up to do.
While Elijah and Joanna story are going on Caroline and Thatcher on of the footman have their own story causing problems too.
As both couples try to see thru all the twist and turns, secrets come out, others causing untold pain for them trying to stop all from being together.
This is a great story of how soldiers of the past were left to find their own way with little help being given. It is also a great story of what is really important, love or the opinions of others.
What one is ready to give up for that love and what really is important in one's life.
I hope you will give it a try; am sure you will love it too.
I received and ARC from the author and would like to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am
voluntarily giving it.
Joanna Merryton has been invited to the home of her best friend Caroline in the country for Christmas. She has missed seeing her friend. She has stayed away for five years after Caroline's brother played a lot of mean, unkind pranks and jokes on her. She was an overweight child then and Elijah embarrassed and shammed her. Caroline promises her that he will not be there. Unfortunately, they didn't have phones back then and none of the family knew Elijah was on his way home.
Elijah is returning home from the war just in time for Christmas. All he really wanted was some peace and quiet but at his family home, Briercrest Hall. But he forgot how much his family celebrates Christmas and walks into the middle of the party. Elijah has been wounded in the war but not with an injury one can see. He has had a bad head injury and has lost a lot of his memories. When he sees a beautiful young lady standing under the mistletoe. When he approaches her, he is shocked by her being afraid of him. Most ladies are attracted to him. Joanna tells Elijah off and tells him to never brother her again. The last time was enough.
Elijah set out to prove not only to Joanna that he is different, but also to his family. He has a lot of making up to do.
While Elijah and Joanna story are going on Caroline and Thatcher on of the footman have their own story causing problems too.
As both couples try to see thru all the twist and turns, secrets come out, others causing untold pain for them trying to stop all from being together.
This is a great story of how soldiers of the past were left to find their own way with little help being given. It is also a great story of what is really important, love or the opinions of others.
What one is ready to give up for that love and what really is important in one's life.
I hope you will give it a try; am sure you will love it too.
I received and ARC from the author and would like to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am
voluntarily giving it.
November 11, 2020
When Joanna Merryton receives an invitation to Christmas at Briercrest Hall, she accepts with the assurance that her best friend Caroline’s brother Elijah is still away at war. For Joanna remains scarred by the pranks Lord Elijah Kentmore pulled on her all those years ago. Lord Elijah Kentmore has returned home from war just in time for Christmas, only to find that nothing has changed at Briercrest Hall, while he is but a shadow of the man he used to be. Many of his memories of old have fled, only to be replaced by others he wouldn’t wish upon anyone. All he wants now is to be respected for the man he has become, instead of the man he used to be. When Elijah attempts to capture the beautiful, mysterious woman under the mistletoe, he is shocked by her dismissal — and by the news that the ugly duckling turned swan is, in fact, his sister’s friend Joanna.
A lovely Christmas romance. A well written captivating romance with strong characters & an engrossing story. I loved Joanna who left alone in the world had become a seamstress & was determined to make a life for herself, I also loved Eli who had suffered a head injury which affected his memory. They were most certainly enemies to lovers but the attraction between the pair can’t be denied. I loved how Eli redeemed himself & that Joanna gave him a second chance even though someone was determined to ruin their budding romance. I also loved the Marquis who was open minded & wanted the best for his children
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A lovely Christmas romance. A well written captivating romance with strong characters & an engrossing story. I loved Joanna who left alone in the world had become a seamstress & was determined to make a life for herself, I also loved Eli who had suffered a head injury which affected his memory. They were most certainly enemies to lovers but the attraction between the pair can’t be denied. I loved how Eli redeemed himself & that Joanna gave him a second chance even though someone was determined to ruin their budding romance. I also loved the Marquis who was open minded & wanted the best for his children
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 12, 2020
❄️❄️ONE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY❄️❄️
Blazing blizzards! Ellie delivers once again with this tantalizing delight, dishing out some fervent facts, heart pounding feels and relentless dedication, grabbing your attention from the first sentence until the very last word, wrapping this gem together seamlessly. Toss in captivating drama, riveting intrigue, disarming truths, callous actions, unveiling revelations, electrifying suspense and intense situations, you have one mind-blowing adventure, blasting this baby to life flawlessly. Satisfaction rocks this jewel, bringing it home with such intensity and precision, displaying the separate struggles and challenging triumphs, dramatic twists and stunning turns, broken barriers and crushed perimeters, limitations are amplified and expanded, igniting a fierce surge of determination, highlighting all the exuberance and vigor, kicking this jewel into a tailspin with a chart topping culmination. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back, baring incredibly deep emotions and an undeniable connection, binding them to one another beautifully. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits adding depth and diversity, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and such vivid descriptions that feel as though you were transported to the middle of ground zero with them. Fantastic job Ellie, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
Blazing blizzards! Ellie delivers once again with this tantalizing delight, dishing out some fervent facts, heart pounding feels and relentless dedication, grabbing your attention from the first sentence until the very last word, wrapping this gem together seamlessly. Toss in captivating drama, riveting intrigue, disarming truths, callous actions, unveiling revelations, electrifying suspense and intense situations, you have one mind-blowing adventure, blasting this baby to life flawlessly. Satisfaction rocks this jewel, bringing it home with such intensity and precision, displaying the separate struggles and challenging triumphs, dramatic twists and stunning turns, broken barriers and crushed perimeters, limitations are amplified and expanded, igniting a fierce surge of determination, highlighting all the exuberance and vigor, kicking this jewel into a tailspin with a chart topping culmination. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back, baring incredibly deep emotions and an undeniable connection, binding them to one another beautifully. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits adding depth and diversity, transforming into genuine charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and such vivid descriptions that feel as though you were transported to the middle of ground zero with them. Fantastic job Ellie, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
November 8, 2020
If you are looking for an entertaining & heartwarming Christmas tale, this one is for you! The main couple & secondary characters were delightful & in the holiday spirit, two couples found their HEA - what a bonus!
Lord Elijah Kentmore is the second son of the Marquess of Darington & after being gone five years, has returned from the war just in time for his parent's Christmas house party. Joanna Merryton, is a seamstress in London & is attending the house party to see her best friend, Caroline who is Elijah's sister. Joanna does not like Elijah because of a humiliating prank he pulled on her five years ago & now, he is back from the war. Elijah's head injury has caused lapse of memories & he really doesn't remember much about many things in the past. Boy, will he find out, but along the way a wonderful love blossoms & there were pranks, humor, healing, & learning to trust to add a little drama.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Lord Elijah Kentmore is the second son of the Marquess of Darington & after being gone five years, has returned from the war just in time for his parent's Christmas house party. Joanna Merryton, is a seamstress in London & is attending the house party to see her best friend, Caroline who is Elijah's sister. Joanna does not like Elijah because of a humiliating prank he pulled on her five years ago & now, he is back from the war. Elijah's head injury has caused lapse of memories & he really doesn't remember much about many things in the past. Boy, will he find out, but along the way a wonderful love blossoms & there were pranks, humor, healing, & learning to trust to add a little drama.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
November 9, 2020
It's Twelvetide in the country at Briercrest Hall's Christmas house party, come eat, drink and be merry... maybe some mischief too in Merry Misrule! Ellie St Clair weaves a sigh-worthy story from beginning to end with threads of falling in love with that special someone that are the gifts of the season! With amazing character chemistry that is believable and easy to relate to, from the first page and throughout I was totally captivated. Each and every character came to life and you find yourself drawn into their story. It's a romance that was pure delight, filled with delightful dialogue, humor, and intense emotions from despair and grief to love and ecstasy, and as Lord Elijah and Joanna's story unfolds with all the drama, hope, uncertainties and the magical magic of the Christmas Season!
November 12, 2020
Joanna is friends with Caroline and accepts an invitation to her parent's Christmas house party to see her. Joanna is a seamstress who has some confidence issues. The only reason she accepts the invitation is because Caroline's brother, Elijah, will not be there. Elijah was unkind to Joanna in the past and she has never gotten over it. When she arrives, she is shocked to find him there and considers leaving but Elijah didn't even recognize her. He had returned home from the war recovering from a head injury. Elijah is fascinated by Joanna and tries to make up for the past, even if he doesn't remember everything. While this is going on his sister seems to have found love with someone not socially acceptable. This is a sweet holiday story of romance and love regardless of who you are or what your occupation is. I received an ARC and all the opinions are my own.
November 12, 2020
Joanne goes to her friend's holiday party with excitement at seeing her friend again, all is well until she sees Caroline's brother Lord Elijah Kentmore a man she dislikes immensely. Apparently, he returned home because of a head injury sustained while fighting for his country. he has kept his memory problems to himself self not even telling his family. So when he approaches Joanne and she tells him to leave her alone he is shocked until Caroline reminds him of all the tricks he had played on her. Elijah becomes determined to win her affection. The party has another love story woven into the background it seems his sister believes she is in love with Thatcher a footman in her father's employ. Many laughs and tears follow through the house party as well as more pranks, join the house party to find out what happens. I received this book as an ARC and this my honest review.
November 11, 2020
A heartwarming romance about a seamstress, Joanna, her friend Caroline and Caroline's brother Elijah. Joanna has ill feelings toward Elijah because of some viscious pranks he and his brother pulled on her. But Elijah returning from the war is not the same. As Elijah tries to woo Joanna, she is leary of his attention and in the mean time her friend Caroline has her own romance going on. So much going on during this Christmas celebration and the author makes it so you feel as if you are there. So wonderful.
November 3, 2020
Delightful story. Returning from the war, injured and weary, Elijah walks back into his home and straight into an unexpected and unwanted Christmas house party. Joanna had been humiliated by Elijah years ago and only came to the party because she thought he was still away. When Elijah & Joanna meet again, sparks fly, but not pleasant ones. Can Elijah prove to Joanna that he has changed? Will Joanna forgive Elijah or will outside influences bring trouble to their door? I felt sorry for both these damaged characters and was extremely pleased with the final outcome. This amazing author has not only given us a clear insight into the time period, but has also helped the reader to envision what might really have happened had someone returned from war with the type of injuries that Elijah suffered from. Those problems not visible, were very difficult to treat back then and the fear of being thought ‘weak’ or ‘mad’ would affect the person’s daily life. I loved this story and highly recommend it. I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 11, 2020
This is a heartwarming Christmas romance between Joanna and Elijah. The author does a great job building their story and pulled me in with all the humor and love. She paints her scenes perfectly and brings a touching holiday story. It's well written ,moves fluidly and is an entertaining read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
November 12, 2020
Joanna is a seamstress who dislikes Lord Eli because he embarrassed her when she was younger. she attends a holiday party because she is best friends with Eli's sister. Eli helps her get back a family pocket watch and they fall in love. Good plot.
November 4, 2020
This is a pleasant story of Joanna and Elijah. Joanna knew Elijah for years because she has been friends with Elijah’s sister, Caroline. They spent many Christmas Holidays together. Joanna did not really like Elijah because he always played jokes on her and some of the jokes were cruel. Elijah just came back from war after he was hurt. He wants to be a better person and to make it up to Joanna. While he is doing this, they get to know each other better and love comes. This is a story which had me feeling a little sorry for both the main characters. I wanted them both to find their happy ever after.
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
November 12, 2020
An enjoyable story for all that love Regency...
Wonderful characters and plot... with surprising ending for the time...
Friendships... jockes... loves... and a Christmas party...
Wonderful characters and plot... with surprising ending for the time...
Friendships... jockes... loves... and a Christmas party...
January 4, 2022
Ugh. Just can't do it. DNF at 21%
December 8, 2020
When Joanna’s best friend Caroline invited her to Christmas at Briercrest Hall, Joanna was hesitant. Growing up around Caroline and her brothers, she’d spent a lot of time at the Hall and was usually the butt of a lot of Caroline’s brother, Elijah’s practical jokes. After he took a pocket watch that had been left to Joanna by her grandmother and gave it to a young lady he liked, Caroline swore that she would never be around Elijah again. When Caroline assured Joanna that Elijah wasn’t going to be there, that he was still serving out of the country, Joanna decided to spend Christmas at Briercrest Hall.
Unfortunately for Joanna, Elijah was at the Hall to spend Christmas with the family. He’s back from his commission, but something’s changed. He seems different, quieter. Little does anyone know, Elijah suffered a head injury and has lost some of his memories. But he can’t believe that the stunning woman before him was the same pudgy girl he loved pranking when they were younger. With only limited memories of the pranks he once pulled on her, he wants to get to know the adult Joanna. Unfortunately for him, she wants nothing to do with him.
Elijah has a new mission, to show Joanna that he’s no longer the same prankster that left for war. Will Joanna give him a chance?
I truly enjoyed this Christmas Regency Romance. This was my first book by Ms. St. Clair, but it’s not my last. I’ve already read another of her books before writing this review. With great writing, a wonderful story arc, and intriguing characters, you won’t go wrong choosing this sweet story.
*I read this story using my Kindle Unlimited subscription
Unfortunately for Joanna, Elijah was at the Hall to spend Christmas with the family. He’s back from his commission, but something’s changed. He seems different, quieter. Little does anyone know, Elijah suffered a head injury and has lost some of his memories. But he can’t believe that the stunning woman before him was the same pudgy girl he loved pranking when they were younger. With only limited memories of the pranks he once pulled on her, he wants to get to know the adult Joanna. Unfortunately for him, she wants nothing to do with him.
Elijah has a new mission, to show Joanna that he’s no longer the same prankster that left for war. Will Joanna give him a chance?
I truly enjoyed this Christmas Regency Romance. This was my first book by Ms. St. Clair, but it’s not my last. I’ve already read another of her books before writing this review. With great writing, a wonderful story arc, and intriguing characters, you won’t go wrong choosing this sweet story.
*I read this story using my Kindle Unlimited subscription
November 14, 2020
"But then Joanna had returned to his life, and the thought of marriage was no longer so troubling."
Such a nice Christmas-themed romance from Ellie St. Clair in "Merry Misrule." Joanna Merryton is more than happy to accept her friend's invitation to spend the holidays with her. Caroline's brother is still away at war, and Joanna would celebrate Christmas, at the home of a marquess. Joanna is unaware that Lord Elijah Kentmore HAS returned from war, and would be there for the holidays. Apparently, Elijah teased Joanna mercilessly and made her feel like an ugly duckling. Now, not only does Elijah have to make amends for teasing a young Joanna, he must convince her, that he is worthy of her, now. You can expect drama, angst, bitter memories, humor, making amends, holiday merriment, steamy moments, and romance. An enjoyable read. I received this book as an ARC from the author, and I volunteered this review.
Such a nice Christmas-themed romance from Ellie St. Clair in "Merry Misrule." Joanna Merryton is more than happy to accept her friend's invitation to spend the holidays with her. Caroline's brother is still away at war, and Joanna would celebrate Christmas, at the home of a marquess. Joanna is unaware that Lord Elijah Kentmore HAS returned from war, and would be there for the holidays. Apparently, Elijah teased Joanna mercilessly and made her feel like an ugly duckling. Now, not only does Elijah have to make amends for teasing a young Joanna, he must convince her, that he is worthy of her, now. You can expect drama, angst, bitter memories, humor, making amends, holiday merriment, steamy moments, and romance. An enjoyable read. I received this book as an ARC from the author, and I volunteered this review.
December 5, 2020
Lord Elijah was thoughtless prankster who caused Joanna emotional pain and embarrassment and took the last remaining thing she had of her grandmother, her pocket watch and gave it to another. He's not the same man after returning from war. Although he still likes to play pranks, he's more considerate of his actions. But he has trouble with his memories and thinks he won't be fit to be any women's wife. Joanne is a seamstress and Elijah's brothers and guests all look down on her and think she's only fit to make Christmas costumes and be a nobleman's mistress but not his wife even though her father was the son of a lord. Her friend his sister Lady Caroline is in love with a footman, they want to run off to be married, and they don't think about how they survive financially with no income and no references. I didn't like Elijah's brother Alex, who was a selfish cruel liar, but I hope he redeems himself in a future book.
November 29, 2023
A steamy story. Joanna has some noble blood but is a seamstress friends with a lady, Caroline, and often spends Christmas with her family. She detests Caroline’s brother, Elijah, because of his tricks and jokes when they were younger. Now he’s back from war and she dreads meeting him. I thought it seemed slow to start with but that it picked up about half way through. It was an unusual story - a noble family with a daughter whose best friend is a seamstress, who is apparently more or less accepted by other titles families/couples staying with them. Said daughter wanting to marry a footman and her brother wanting to marry Joanna, which is highly unlikely. However I did like the story once it picked up. So is it a 3 or 4 star - 3.5 is honest answer but I’ve gone 4 as overall I did like the story.
November 26, 2020
A lovely story with humourous banter.
Elijah - came back from war with some memory loss.
Joanna/Jo- went to her best friends Christmas house party believing that the trouble making brother is still at war.
I enjoyed reading this intriguing story that is well written with unforgettable and witty characters. This can be considered an enemy (frenemy) to lovers story, that shows that just because a prank maybe humorous to one it can be very hurtful to another. A sub H and h Samuel the footman and Caroline, Eli sister, their story is one of different stations/class. Both of Their story has a loving and complete HEA!
The character development in this story is fantastically written .
Elijah - came back from war with some memory loss.
Joanna/Jo- went to her best friends Christmas house party believing that the trouble making brother is still at war.
I enjoyed reading this intriguing story that is well written with unforgettable and witty characters. This can be considered an enemy (frenemy) to lovers story, that shows that just because a prank maybe humorous to one it can be very hurtful to another. A sub H and h Samuel the footman and Caroline, Eli sister, their story is one of different stations/class. Both of Their story has a loving and complete HEA!
The character development in this story is fantastically written .
January 5, 2022
Christmas House Party with lots going on
Eli returns from war to find his parents hosting a house party in celebration of Christmas. He suffered a head injury while in battle and is having memory issues. Joanna is best friends with his sister. She is attending the party because she has been assured Eli will not be there. When they were younger he continually played pranks that embarrassed her and hurt her feelings. Eli doesn't remember her but is very attracted to her. He wants to convince her he isn't that person anymore. They make a lovely couple and I was invested in seeing how they overcome the obstacles so they could be together.
There is a subplot that adds more to the story. It held my attention.
Eli returns from war to find his parents hosting a house party in celebration of Christmas. He suffered a head injury while in battle and is having memory issues. Joanna is best friends with his sister. She is attending the party because she has been assured Eli will not be there. When they were younger he continually played pranks that embarrassed her and hurt her feelings. Eli doesn't remember her but is very attracted to her. He wants to convince her he isn't that person anymore. They make a lovely couple and I was invested in seeing how they overcome the obstacles so they could be together.
There is a subplot that adds more to the story. It held my attention.
November 16, 2020
You never know when you will have to pay the piper.
You never know when you will have to pay the piper and that is what Elijah faces. Joanna and Caroline are friends but Joanna's memoirs of Elijah were not in the least pleasant. Not realizing that he would be home for the Christmas gathering she agreed to come she is faced with having to deal with him. The characters were interesting and the past history was a major challenge. I liked the author’s style of writing it was so easy to get lost in the story. I loved the twists in this one too. I highly recommend this holiday charmer. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
You never know when you will have to pay the piper and that is what Elijah faces. Joanna and Caroline are friends but Joanna's memoirs of Elijah were not in the least pleasant. Not realizing that he would be home for the Christmas gathering she agreed to come she is faced with having to deal with him. The characters were interesting and the past history was a major challenge. I liked the author’s style of writing it was so easy to get lost in the story. I loved the twists in this one too. I highly recommend this holiday charmer. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
March 11, 2021
I did like this, but was really disappointed that the heroine was gorgeous, I would have preferred her to still be plain and plump and in spectacles. I’m generally not a fan of class disparities (in romance or in the world), but it added a bit of angst to the tale so it didn’t bother me overmuch. I really liked Eli, and Joanna too, as well as the side characters (though I would have preferred ). Overall, had a nice dash of angst, and some nice Misunderstandings. It’s pretty saccharine, but surprisingly steamy in spots.
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