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Heather Duvall #0.5 - Scandal's Bride
Married At Midnight
Hitched in the Nick of Time!
Four brides, four beginnings... Four stories of romance from the incomparable Kathleen E. Woodiwiss, and Jo Beverley, Tanya Anne Crosby, and Samantha James.
Jo Beverley - The Determined Bride
A women abandoned on the battlefield discovers that dreams can cone true when an honorable commanding officer gallantly offers his name...
Tanya Anne Crosby - A Kiss After Midnight
A rebellious heiress who must wed by the stroke of midnight learns that a twist of fate has fulfilled her heart's deepest desire...
Samantha James - Scandal's Bride
A young womans reckless scheme to defy her fathers ultimatum leads to a hasty union and unexpected passion...
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss - Beyond The Kiss (Birmingham #1.2)
The wedding of jeff birmingham of the flame and the flower and his new bride raelynn inflames the jealous ire of a determined rival...
Celebrate the glorious, magical moment of new beginnings with for uncertain couples joined by a passionate promise - and surprised by unforeseen love.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 1996
11 people are currently reading
976 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
52 books1,931 followersKathleen Erin Hogg was born on June 3, 1939, in Alexandria, Louisiana, she was the youngest of eight siblings by Gladys (Coker) and Charles Wingrove Hogg, a disabled World War I veteran. She long relished creating original narratives, and by age 6 was telling herself stories at night to help herself fall asleep. At age 16, she met U.S. Air Force Second Lieutenant Ross Eugene Woodiwiss at a dance, and they married the following year. She wrote her first book in longhand while living at a military outpost in Japan.
She is credited with the invention of the modern historical romance novel: In 1972 she released The Flame and the Flower, an instant New York Times bestseller that created a literary precedent. The novel revolutionized mainstream publishing, featuring an epic historical romance with a strong heroine and impassioned sex scenes. The Flame and the Flower was rejected by agents and hardcover publishers, who deemed it as "too long" at 600 pages. Rather than follow the advice of the rejection letters and rewrite the novel, she instead submitted it to paperback publishers. The first publisher on her list, Avon, quickly purchased the novel and arranged an initial 500,000 print run. The novel sold over 2.3 million copies in its first four years of publication.
The success of The Flame and the Flower prompted a new style of writing romance, concentrating primarily on historical fiction tracking the monogamous relationship between a helpless heroines and the hero who rescued her, even if he had been the one to place her in danger. The romance novels which followed in her example featured longer plots, more controversial situations and characters, and more intimate and steamy sex scenes.
She was an avid horse rider who at one time lived in a large home on 55 acres (220,000 m2) in Minnesota. After her husband's death in 1996, she moved back to Louisiana. She died in a hospital on July 6, 2007 in Princeton, Minnesota, aged 68, from cancer. She was survived by two sons, Sean and Heath, their wives, and numerous grandchildren. Her third son, Dorren, predeceased her.
She is credited with the invention of the modern historical romance novel: In 1972 she released The Flame and the Flower, an instant New York Times bestseller that created a literary precedent. The novel revolutionized mainstream publishing, featuring an epic historical romance with a strong heroine and impassioned sex scenes. The Flame and the Flower was rejected by agents and hardcover publishers, who deemed it as "too long" at 600 pages. Rather than follow the advice of the rejection letters and rewrite the novel, she instead submitted it to paperback publishers. The first publisher on her list, Avon, quickly purchased the novel and arranged an initial 500,000 print run. The novel sold over 2.3 million copies in its first four years of publication.
The success of The Flame and the Flower prompted a new style of writing romance, concentrating primarily on historical fiction tracking the monogamous relationship between a helpless heroines and the hero who rescued her, even if he had been the one to place her in danger. The romance novels which followed in her example featured longer plots, more controversial situations and characters, and more intimate and steamy sex scenes.
She was an avid horse rider who at one time lived in a large home on 55 acres (220,000 m2) in Minnesota. After her husband's death in 1996, she moved back to Louisiana. She died in a hospital on July 6, 2007 in Princeton, Minnesota, aged 68, from cancer. She was survived by two sons, Sean and Heath, their wives, and numerous grandchildren. Her third son, Dorren, predeceased her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 22, 2019
I picked this up to read "Scandal's Bride" by Samantha James. My review is based only on that story.
Lady Victoria Carlton is being pressured by her father to accept one of the many proposals she has received this season, or he will pick a husband for her. Victoria doesn't want to marry, so she concocts a scheme to cause a scandal and make sure no one will want her. But the scheme backfires and she ends up in a hasty union with Miles Grayson, the Earl of Stonehurst. Miles hopes they can live together to satisfy Victoria's father; then quietly get an annulment. But as he gets to know Victoria, he starts to think that marriage wasn't such a bad idea.
This is a satisfying story. I picked it up because it is a prequel to "Every Wish Fulfilled". My rating: 4 Stars.
Lady Victoria Carlton is being pressured by her father to accept one of the many proposals she has received this season, or he will pick a husband for her. Victoria doesn't want to marry, so she concocts a scheme to cause a scandal and make sure no one will want her. But the scheme backfires and she ends up in a hasty union with Miles Grayson, the Earl of Stonehurst. Miles hopes they can live together to satisfy Victoria's father; then quietly get an annulment. But as he gets to know Victoria, he starts to think that marriage wasn't such a bad idea.
This is a satisfying story. I picked it up because it is a prequel to "Every Wish Fulfilled". My rating: 4 Stars.
March 31, 2018
Leído el relato de la Woodiwiss. Es la historia de Jeff Birmingham que lo conocimos en La llama y la flor. Un relato muy cortito pero muy bonito.
December 30, 2021
Perteneciente a la antología “Bodas a medianoche”, se recomienda leer la primera parte “El beso” (dentro de la antología Tres bodas y un beso).
Nos quedamos justo tras la boda entre Jeff Birmingham y Raelyn Barret, esta fue la forma en la que evitaron que el tío de la joven la venda a Gustav Fridich. Ahora los dos deben decidir si consumar la noche de bodas o esperar un tiempo hasta conocerse bien.
Su repentino matrimonio tiene sus consecuencias, no solo el motivo de que son completos desconocidos sino también que tendrán que enfrentarse a un pretendiente y a una mujer que afirma ser la amante de Jeff.
El relato me ha gustado, pero es porque tengo en cuenta el anterior, todo en conjunto, creo que tenemos un buen inicio de novela, lo que no se entiende es que estos dos relatos no estén en la novela “Mentiras y secretos” y se cuenten por separado.
La pega que puedo ponerle es el instalove que me resulta poco creíble a estas alturas, sin embargo lo demás cumple con entretener un ratito al lector con su momento de pasión, de tensión y de malos malísimos.
https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...
Nos quedamos justo tras la boda entre Jeff Birmingham y Raelyn Barret, esta fue la forma en la que evitaron que el tío de la joven la venda a Gustav Fridich. Ahora los dos deben decidir si consumar la noche de bodas o esperar un tiempo hasta conocerse bien.
Su repentino matrimonio tiene sus consecuencias, no solo el motivo de que son completos desconocidos sino también que tendrán que enfrentarse a un pretendiente y a una mujer que afirma ser la amante de Jeff.
El relato me ha gustado, pero es porque tengo en cuenta el anterior, todo en conjunto, creo que tenemos un buen inicio de novela, lo que no se entiende es que estos dos relatos no estén en la novela “Mentiras y secretos” y se cuenten por separado.
La pega que puedo ponerle es el instalove que me resulta poco creíble a estas alturas, sin embargo lo demás cumple con entretener un ratito al lector con su momento de pasión, de tensión y de malos malísimos.
https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...
November 1, 2020
Esta bastante entretenido. La mejor para mi Una novia decidida de Jo Berveley. Una boda de escándalo de Samantha James. Después Un beso después de medianoche de Tanya Anne Crosby y por último Después del beso de Kathleen Woodiwiss este es el más flojo.
May 27, 2013
Pulled it off the shelf to re-read the next installment in the Jeff/Raelynn saga. As if a chick in 18th century England would ever have been named Raelynn. Ha!
September 11, 2022
A group of stories by romance writers, one of which is an all time favorite of mine. Kathleen Woodiwiss. I have read and enjoyed all of her books. The other writers are Jo Beverley, Tanya Anne Crosby and Samantha James. Their stories were also well written and enjoyable.
October 4, 2010
This review is only on the Samantha James story (Scandal's Bride. (It's been forever since I read the KEW story).
This was a cute short story. I read it because I wanted to read the "sequel" to this story about the hero, Miles', young ward. This is a story about two people forced to marry due to the rash actions of the heroine. I liked how Victoria wasn't too stubborn and admitted to what was her fault. Miles was a bit more stubborn and it took sometime for him to open up to the possibility of a relationship with Victoria.
It was a nice short read with a sweet love scene. I loved Victoria's interactions with young Heather. I think SJ does a good job of the stepmother/daughter/son relationship. It's done very sweetly.
Good quick read. Heather's book is Every Wish Fulfilled which I am reading right now!
This was a cute short story. I read it because I wanted to read the "sequel" to this story about the hero, Miles', young ward. This is a story about two people forced to marry due to the rash actions of the heroine. I liked how Victoria wasn't too stubborn and admitted to what was her fault. Miles was a bit more stubborn and it took sometime for him to open up to the possibility of a relationship with Victoria.
It was a nice short read with a sweet love scene. I loved Victoria's interactions with young Heather. I think SJ does a good job of the stepmother/daughter/son relationship. It's done very sweetly.
Good quick read. Heather's book is Every Wish Fulfilled which I am reading right now!
September 25, 2011
5 stars for Jo Beverley's story, which is really charming, besides having an absolutely amazing opening scene.
4 stars for Samantha James' sentimental and angsty story. I enjoyed it, but some readers may find the angst and the sentiment a bit too much to take. This story also appears in "Three Times a Bride" with stories by Catherine Anderson and Loretta Chase. One of the characters in the story, the child Heather Duval, has her own book "Every Wish Fulfilled".
4 stars for Samantha James' sentimental and angsty story. I enjoyed it, but some readers may find the angst and the sentiment a bit too much to take. This story also appears in "Three Times a Bride" with stories by Catherine Anderson and Loretta Chase. One of the characters in the story, the child Heather Duval, has her own book "Every Wish Fulfilled".
to-read-do-not-have
February 11, 2017Beyond The Kiss by Kathleen Woodiwiss is connected to The Birmingham Trilogy and follows The Kiss located in Three Weddings and A Kiss
May 1, 2016
enjoyable stories, Samantha James' was the best one IMHO.
Originally read in 2008
Originally read in 2008
June 6, 2023
The first star is just for the first story. It started off strangely but turned out to be so cute. I quite liked Kate for her pragmatism and determination to be a good mother. Charles won me over for his steadfastness and capabilities. The humor was great, too.
The second story lacked consistency. The heroine was forced to marry because of a stipulation in her father’s will… even though he NEVER mentioned marriage to her or attempted to marry her off in the six years she was on the marriage market.
The Gardner left when she was twelve… but she wrote to him all the time even though he couldn’t read.
The bland hero spent twelve years loving his tween age love despite never seeing her or having any connection to her in all that time… even as he slept with multiple other women. Because nothing says everlasting love like making your way into many women’s beds.
The hero also hated her because… don’t know, but it’s what prevented him from reaching out to her. But didn’t he just say he’s loved her since his voice began to crack? Stop asking questions.
The hero felt he owed it to the heroine to marry her because…. Who knows.
The hero lied about who he was despite knowing the heroine kept asking after him because…. No more questions!
The heroine was willing to marry a commoner because… that’s what rebellious duke’s daughters due apparently. We conveniently never get to see society find out about this tidbit.
The heroine speaks in bizarre language, even for a historical story. So many “sirrahs, egads, by joves, I says, etc.” It was overdone.
The ending after all that secrecy and buildup was so flat.
And were they really going to consummate their marriage while he was encrusted with mud? So romantic.
Half star for the whip carrying parson’s wife and the black thumb of Victoria.
The third story features a shallow witch and a writer who doesn’t understand British history. Peerage titles aren’t in lieu of the word mister. There’s no Duke Sam Gold or Viscount Harry Smith. And There was no way to get married in London without posting banns or getting a license/special license and they all took a while to do/get. No one could marry within hours unless they went to Scotland. Servants didn’t just walk into rooms without knocking, the master’s study would never be right near the kitchens and high tea wouldn’t be around for another thirty years. Ms. James, do your research.
The heroine, who has the same name as the heroine of the second story (who let that by?), is so judgemental and angsty. She’s angsty because she has Seen the WORLD and understands that MEN are awful creatures who must NEVER be trusted. She knows this because a few Seasons in London have introduced her to gambling men and ONE philandering spouse who parades his women out in the open. Yeah, no. Men kept their lady loves away from polite society. And if that’s seeing the world’s evil then she’s a lucky gal.
This gem of a woman was in despair because her dreams of marrying a handsome man (only requirement) who she could love were CRUSHED. She can NEVER marry. So she decides to create a scandal by kissing a stranger. She doesn’t inquire if said stranger is married, engaged or courting anyone who might be justifiably hurt by seeing them kiss, the hypocrite. She doesn’t ask if HE wants to kiss. It’s only men who are shameless, you see.
We then have her very loving father blackmailing an innocent man into marrying his precious daughter because… the kiss was witnessed by the girl’s best friend and ONE other person. So there’s no way to keep it quiet (enter sarcasm). And blackmail is such a wonderful way to start married life.
And the last story, well… a BEAUTIFUL woman meets a HANDSOME man and they fall in love with each other’s beauty. The end. Half a star because the author pioneered massive changes in the world of romance.
The second story lacked consistency. The heroine was forced to marry because of a stipulation in her father’s will… even though he NEVER mentioned marriage to her or attempted to marry her off in the six years she was on the marriage market.
The Gardner left when she was twelve… but she wrote to him all the time even though he couldn’t read.
The bland hero spent twelve years loving his tween age love despite never seeing her or having any connection to her in all that time… even as he slept with multiple other women. Because nothing says everlasting love like making your way into many women’s beds.
The hero also hated her because… don’t know, but it’s what prevented him from reaching out to her. But didn’t he just say he’s loved her since his voice began to crack? Stop asking questions.
The hero felt he owed it to the heroine to marry her because…. Who knows.
The hero lied about who he was despite knowing the heroine kept asking after him because…. No more questions!
The heroine was willing to marry a commoner because… that’s what rebellious duke’s daughters due apparently. We conveniently never get to see society find out about this tidbit.
The heroine speaks in bizarre language, even for a historical story. So many “sirrahs, egads, by joves, I says, etc.” It was overdone.
The ending after all that secrecy and buildup was so flat.
And were they really going to consummate their marriage while he was encrusted with mud? So romantic.
Half star for the whip carrying parson’s wife and the black thumb of Victoria.
The third story features a shallow witch and a writer who doesn’t understand British history. Peerage titles aren’t in lieu of the word mister. There’s no Duke Sam Gold or Viscount Harry Smith. And There was no way to get married in London without posting banns or getting a license/special license and they all took a while to do/get. No one could marry within hours unless they went to Scotland. Servants didn’t just walk into rooms without knocking, the master’s study would never be right near the kitchens and high tea wouldn’t be around for another thirty years. Ms. James, do your research.
The heroine, who has the same name as the heroine of the second story (who let that by?), is so judgemental and angsty. She’s angsty because she has Seen the WORLD and understands that MEN are awful creatures who must NEVER be trusted. She knows this because a few Seasons in London have introduced her to gambling men and ONE philandering spouse who parades his women out in the open. Yeah, no. Men kept their lady loves away from polite society. And if that’s seeing the world’s evil then she’s a lucky gal.
This gem of a woman was in despair because her dreams of marrying a handsome man (only requirement) who she could love were CRUSHED. She can NEVER marry. So she decides to create a scandal by kissing a stranger. She doesn’t inquire if said stranger is married, engaged or courting anyone who might be justifiably hurt by seeing them kiss, the hypocrite. She doesn’t ask if HE wants to kiss. It’s only men who are shameless, you see.
We then have her very loving father blackmailing an innocent man into marrying his precious daughter because… the kiss was witnessed by the girl’s best friend and ONE other person. So there’s no way to keep it quiet (enter sarcasm). And blackmail is such a wonderful way to start married life.
And the last story, well… a BEAUTIFUL woman meets a HANDSOME man and they fall in love with each other’s beauty. The end. Half a star because the author pioneered massive changes in the world of romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2019
Este libro contiene 4 historias, cada una escrita por autoras de romance, las cuales tienen en común como el titulo indica, una boda a media noche.
*Una novia decidida - Jo Beverley*
La historia empieza con Kate, quien en medio de la noche, y de la guerra, busca al padre de su hijo en las tropas militares, para casarse con el, ya que esta pronto a dar a Luz y no quiere que su hijo, tenga un apellido. Pero al llegar, se entera que este ha fallecido, y ella ha iniciado en labor de parto.
Esta historia no me gusto del todo, no me convence la relación de Kate, con el teniente, aunque se supone que si convivían cuando ella se encontraba en el campamento con los demás soldados, pero siento que su amor se dio muy rápido. me gusto la resolución, pero en si la historia se me hizo rápida, claro esta, si se toma en cuanta que hay otras 3 historias en el libro.
*Una boda después de medianoche - Tanya Anne Crosby*
en esta historia primera relata la relación de Victoria y su amigo Thomas cuando eran niños, y la decisión del padre de ella, de mandar lejos a Thomas, por ser el hijo del jardinero y es inadecuado que Victoria pase tiempo con el.
Después pasa Victoria cuando ya es adulta, quien al morir su padre, tiene que casarse para no perder lo que es suyo.
eta historia me gusto un poco mas, el amor de ellos es desde niños, así que lo creo mas, Thomas me encanto y su resolución al saber de la situación de Victoria me agrado, y mas a l no comentarle a ella. la historia es linda, creo que me hubiera gustado un poco mas de historia después del final, pero en si esta bonita.
*Una boda de escandalo - Samantha James*
en esta, Victoria esta destinada a casarse, su padre le ha puesto un ultimátum de que si no escoge marido para esa noche, el lo hará por ella. Ella no quiere casarse, después de la experiencia de una amiga, así que planea besar a un desconocido y así armar un escándalo, para que ella no sea elegible y su padre no la case. pero su plan no sale como ella esperaba.
De las cuatro historias, esta es la que mas me gusto, y que no considere que le faltara algo, aunque fuera una historia corta. Es del tipo de historias que me gustan. me gusto la relación de Victoria y Miles, como se fue desarrollando. y los motivos de Miles, para desconfiar. el epilogo aunque cortito, es muy bonito. buscare mas de esta autora.
*Después del beso - Kathleen E. Woodiwiss*
La historia comienza en la noche de bodas de Jeff y Raelynn, quienes se han conocido y casado ese mismo día, al ser Jeff quien la salvara del tipo a quien su tío la iba a vender.
Esta historia fue la que menos me gusto, en primera porque esta se desarrolla en Carolina del sur y yo prefiero las historias como base en Inglaterra.
En segunda no me gusto la pareja, aunque ellos digan que son almas gemelas y lo que sea. Se acaban de conocer. Aparte de que se me hace poco creíble, como resuelven las cosas con los villanos de la historia. también la parte de la explicación del hermano de Jeff y su esposa, se me hizo demás y a parte que no se entiende del todo. me entretuvo, pero no mas.
*Una novia decidida - Jo Beverley*
La historia empieza con Kate, quien en medio de la noche, y de la guerra, busca al padre de su hijo en las tropas militares, para casarse con el, ya que esta pronto a dar a Luz y no quiere que su hijo, tenga un apellido. Pero al llegar, se entera que este ha fallecido, y ella ha iniciado en labor de parto.
Esta historia no me gusto del todo, no me convence la relación de Kate, con el teniente, aunque se supone que si convivían cuando ella se encontraba en el campamento con los demás soldados, pero siento que su amor se dio muy rápido. me gusto la resolución, pero en si la historia se me hizo rápida, claro esta, si se toma en cuanta que hay otras 3 historias en el libro.
*Una boda después de medianoche - Tanya Anne Crosby*
en esta historia primera relata la relación de Victoria y su amigo Thomas cuando eran niños, y la decisión del padre de ella, de mandar lejos a Thomas, por ser el hijo del jardinero y es inadecuado que Victoria pase tiempo con el.
Después pasa Victoria cuando ya es adulta, quien al morir su padre, tiene que casarse para no perder lo que es suyo.
eta historia me gusto un poco mas, el amor de ellos es desde niños, así que lo creo mas, Thomas me encanto y su resolución al saber de la situación de Victoria me agrado, y mas a l no comentarle a ella. la historia es linda, creo que me hubiera gustado un poco mas de historia después del final, pero en si esta bonita.
*Una boda de escandalo - Samantha James*
en esta, Victoria esta destinada a casarse, su padre le ha puesto un ultimátum de que si no escoge marido para esa noche, el lo hará por ella. Ella no quiere casarse, después de la experiencia de una amiga, así que planea besar a un desconocido y así armar un escándalo, para que ella no sea elegible y su padre no la case. pero su plan no sale como ella esperaba.
De las cuatro historias, esta es la que mas me gusto, y que no considere que le faltara algo, aunque fuera una historia corta. Es del tipo de historias que me gustan. me gusto la relación de Victoria y Miles, como se fue desarrollando. y los motivos de Miles, para desconfiar. el epilogo aunque cortito, es muy bonito. buscare mas de esta autora.
*Después del beso - Kathleen E. Woodiwiss*
La historia comienza en la noche de bodas de Jeff y Raelynn, quienes se han conocido y casado ese mismo día, al ser Jeff quien la salvara del tipo a quien su tío la iba a vender.
Esta historia fue la que menos me gusto, en primera porque esta se desarrolla en Carolina del sur y yo prefiero las historias como base en Inglaterra.
En segunda no me gusto la pareja, aunque ellos digan que son almas gemelas y lo que sea. Se acaban de conocer. Aparte de que se me hace poco creíble, como resuelven las cosas con los villanos de la historia. también la parte de la explicación del hermano de Jeff y su esposa, se me hizo demás y a parte que no se entiende del todo. me entretuvo, pero no mas.
May 13, 2022
I would have given this a 3 star - liked it - except that all the stories skipped the best part of historical romance, the romance. Every character had already met and fell in love. There was no lead up to any of the romance, every story felt like a slice of their life or the end of the story itself, which isn't why I read historical romance, I love reading how everyone falls in love. I do enjoy these authors and their books, but, was disappointed in these novellas. The first story left everything interesting out and spent way too long on her having the baby (I got bored reading that part) and then wrapped up way too neatly. There was no budding romance in it, even though she was supposed to be married, she loved another? Their story didn't feel forced, it was just blah, long before they got back together again, I didn't care. The second story was just kind of okay, I didn't see the need for the guy to pretend he was someone else, that felt useless, so, it was a little boring to read and very predictable. The third story started out strong - they're strangers - but, every bit of their conflict felt forced, as if the author just needed both characters to not really like or trust each other. It would have been better as a full length novel. The last story skipped so much, that as it told of what had happened before the story started I kind of got confused. It read like; here's what you missed and we're wrapping up their story. That story would have been interesting to read as a full novel. I felt let down with all the stories, they weren't that interesting. I'm un-hauling this book, I only un-haul books that I know, for a fact, that I will never read again.
December 15, 2020
//Reseña del relato de Kathleen Woodiwiss//
Y digo yo, Woodi que en los cielos estás, no podrías haber cogido este relato y el anterior y fundirlos con el siguiente libro??? Que yo no lo sabía pero resulta que es de la misma pareja?!?!??! Este relato no hay por donde cogerlo, es un despropósito de idas y venidas y malos más malos que la quina. No tiene nada y eso hace que se note más lo viejuno que es. Eso sí, me tendré que leer el libro de estos dos, que ya que me he puesto con su historia, me gustaría saber cómo termina.
Y digo yo, Woodi que en los cielos estás, no podrías haber cogido este relato y el anterior y fundirlos con el siguiente libro??? Que yo no lo sabía pero resulta que es de la misma pareja?!?!??! Este relato no hay por donde cogerlo, es un despropósito de idas y venidas y malos más malos que la quina. No tiene nada y eso hace que se note más lo viejuno que es. Eso sí, me tendré que leer el libro de estos dos, que ya que me he puesto con su historia, me gustaría saber cómo termina.
December 10, 2017
I actually read this years and years ago but I have no idea when and just stumbled upon the book again and remembered it. There is only 1 of the 4 or 5 stories that stands out by Tanya Ann Crosby and it was adorable. Upstairs/downstairs childhood romance into adulthood.
April 8, 2020
Quarantine Read:
The Determined bride - 4 stars. This is my most favorite one among the rest.
A kiss after midnight - 3.5 stars
Scanda's bride - 3.5 stars
Beyond the kiss - did not finish reading because I feel detached to the story.
The Determined bride - 4 stars. This is my most favorite one among the rest.
A kiss after midnight - 3.5 stars
Scanda's bride - 3.5 stars
Beyond the kiss - did not finish reading because I feel detached to the story.
September 12, 2025
Four stories by authors I like, having to do with unconventional marriages. All four stories are historical romances. None of them appealed. Just not enough time to make the stories believable or to get involved with the characters, I guess.
August 2, 2021
I really only read this for the "The Determined Bride" by Jo Beverley. Excellent novella.
Read
June 21, 2022KEW story
April 6, 2024
All set back in the 1800’s and had an old timey theme and some old English language. 2.5/5 stars. Was meh. Was different. Had 4 or 5 small books in one.
August 10, 2017
a kiss after midnight - 5 stars
scandals bride - 4 stars
scandals bride - 4 stars
July 14, 2012
Four stories in one book.
1) The Determined Bride by Jo Beverly - I have tried other books by Jo Beverly but did not really get into them, but I like this short story. Kate is very pregnant and is traveling with a priest to find the man she thought was her husband, but who had convinced her the marriage was not real and he wanted her to leave. Traveling to his army camp, she discovers that he is dead and of all things goes into labor. Captain Charles helps in her greatest time of need in more ways than one.
2) A Kiss After Midnight by Tanya Anne Crosby - Probably tied for my favorite of the bunch. The princess of Blackstone has a best friend, the gardener's son. Her father disapproves and pays to have him sent away, but they promise never to forget one another. Years go by and Victoria's father passes away. With the reading of the will, she discovers that she must wed immediately to keep everything. An impulsive letter to the gardener (who she frequently wrote to in the past) puts things on the path to help Victoria keep what she thinks she needs and gain what she has been missing.
3) Scandal's Bride by Samantha James - My other book tied for favorite. In this one, Victoria's father decides that it is past time that she marry and if she does not pick a groom by midnight, he will. She decides it is in her best interest to cause a scandal so no one will want her, instead of ending up in a marriage like her friend. She follows a stranger onto the balcony and when she hears (supposedly her other friend coming) grabs him and kisses him. Well he would not kiss her when she asked, so she took matters into her own hands to cause scandal. Well things don't work out the way she thought because it turns out her father is one of the ones to come out looking for her. Her father takes her and the stranger back to the house to settle things. That night she is married. With each having plans of their own, it takes Victoria and Miles a while to get down to settling into marriage. Only to have other issues pop up.
4) Beyond the Kiss by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss - decided not to read because is the sequel to another story.
1) The Determined Bride by Jo Beverly - I have tried other books by Jo Beverly but did not really get into them, but I like this short story. Kate is very pregnant and is traveling with a priest to find the man she thought was her husband, but who had convinced her the marriage was not real and he wanted her to leave. Traveling to his army camp, she discovers that he is dead and of all things goes into labor. Captain Charles helps in her greatest time of need in more ways than one.
2) A Kiss After Midnight by Tanya Anne Crosby - Probably tied for my favorite of the bunch. The princess of Blackstone has a best friend, the gardener's son. Her father disapproves and pays to have him sent away, but they promise never to forget one another. Years go by and Victoria's father passes away. With the reading of the will, she discovers that she must wed immediately to keep everything. An impulsive letter to the gardener (who she frequently wrote to in the past) puts things on the path to help Victoria keep what she thinks she needs and gain what she has been missing.
3) Scandal's Bride by Samantha James - My other book tied for favorite. In this one, Victoria's father decides that it is past time that she marry and if she does not pick a groom by midnight, he will. She decides it is in her best interest to cause a scandal so no one will want her, instead of ending up in a marriage like her friend. She follows a stranger onto the balcony and when she hears (supposedly her other friend coming) grabs him and kisses him. Well he would not kiss her when she asked, so she took matters into her own hands to cause scandal. Well things don't work out the way she thought because it turns out her father is one of the ones to come out looking for her. Her father takes her and the stranger back to the house to settle things. That night she is married. With each having plans of their own, it takes Victoria and Miles a while to get down to settling into marriage. Only to have other issues pop up.
4) Beyond the Kiss by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss - decided not to read because is the sequel to another story.
July 21, 2013
For a 4-popper... it was okay.
First book (and the reason I got it) was actually pretty good. 'The Determined Bride' was about women who followed soldiers into battle. I'd heard about how they did that, but never had I read about anyone who had, and it was something I wanted to read. The story itself wasn't as good as I'd hoped, but ... it's a four-popper. They're not good.
The second book A kiss after Midnight') was a 'if I have to marry by my __th birthday, I'll marry someone who won't take my land/monies' plot... with her childhood friend rescuing her, only (((stOopidly))) she doesn't recognize him until the end. And very stereotypical characters and annoyingly bossy heroine. It was lame, lame, lame... but would've been a good idea, had the authoress invested herself in it, somewhat, instead of being lazy about the story. Like you wouldn't expect that from a four-popper, though?
The third book ('Scandal's Bride') was the whole 'I thought she was a gold-digger and underhanded biotch who trapped me by way of a well-planned scandal, so I treated her that way, the later discovered she wasn't' plot. Only not done charmingly. I read it, but... it wasn't good. But then, it's a four-popper. What do you expect?
'Beyond the Kiss' - the fourth one, and a sequel to something I'd read sometime in the past and obviously didn't enjoy enough to remember - SUCKED. Usually two are *meh*, one is fantastic, and one sucks... THIS was the sucky one. I slogged thru it. Dumb broad just off the boat in Charleston is about to be sold to a stereotypical German pig when handsome, rich Geoffrey (gah!) swoops in and marries her, sight unseen, and speaks in Wuthering Heights romantic syrupy tones until she's kidnapped by the German and he has to save her booty (naturally). It was horrible.
But aside from the sucky one, the other three were okay. Not just *meh*. But there wasn't a glimmering jewel, which is why it's only three stars, and not four. There should be a jewel. Do better, next time.
First book (and the reason I got it) was actually pretty good. 'The Determined Bride' was about women who followed soldiers into battle. I'd heard about how they did that, but never had I read about anyone who had, and it was something I wanted to read. The story itself wasn't as good as I'd hoped, but ... it's a four-popper. They're not good.
The second book A kiss after Midnight') was a 'if I have to marry by my __th birthday, I'll marry someone who won't take my land/monies' plot... with her childhood friend rescuing her, only (((stOopidly))) she doesn't recognize him until the end. And very stereotypical characters and annoyingly bossy heroine. It was lame, lame, lame... but would've been a good idea, had the authoress invested herself in it, somewhat, instead of being lazy about the story. Like you wouldn't expect that from a four-popper, though?
The third book ('Scandal's Bride') was the whole 'I thought she was a gold-digger and underhanded biotch who trapped me by way of a well-planned scandal, so I treated her that way, the later discovered she wasn't' plot. Only not done charmingly. I read it, but... it wasn't good. But then, it's a four-popper. What do you expect?
'Beyond the Kiss' - the fourth one, and a sequel to something I'd read sometime in the past and obviously didn't enjoy enough to remember - SUCKED. Usually two are *meh*, one is fantastic, and one sucks... THIS was the sucky one. I slogged thru it. Dumb broad just off the boat in Charleston is about to be sold to a stereotypical German pig when handsome, rich Geoffrey (gah!) swoops in and marries her, sight unseen, and speaks in Wuthering Heights romantic syrupy tones until she's kidnapped by the German and he has to save her booty (naturally). It was horrible.
But aside from the sucky one, the other three were okay. Not just *meh*. But there wasn't a glimmering jewel, which is why it's only three stars, and not four. There should be a jewel. Do better, next time.
June 5, 2014
4 historical romance anthology related to : Getting Married!!
Jo Beverley - 4 stars. The best story in this mess. JB is a master of a short romance story. The H/h were great & the story was interesting.
Tanya Anne Crosby - 1 star. It started out OK, but the story degraded into a clichéd nightmare. There was no basis in reality at all. I guess we're just supposed to swallow that a Duke's daughter would marry the gardener's son (even though he's a lawyer now). The female lead couldn't make up her mind if she was a stuck up aristocrat or a defiant hoyden. I swear if she called the male lead "sirrah" ONE MORE TIME......
Samantha James - 1 star. I usually like SJ, but this is a really bad story. The female lead is a spoiled brat baby & the male lead ran hot & cold. The story reads like she pulled it out of a hat for this anthology.
Kathleen Woodiwiss - 0 stars. REALLY bad. So bad. I can't believe KW wrote this! Well, maybe I can. It's been a really long time since I read any of her books. I might have to put them in the to read pile. Too flowery, dramatic language.
It's 1803 South Carolina & Massa Jeff has "servants". That's a euphemism for slaves I guess. They talk in an exaggerated southern dialect. The villain is German & talks in pigeon English. Stupid things happen for the sake of SOMETHING happening. Plus, I get the impression we're still only getting part of the story. Did she write a full length novel with Jeff & Raelynn? Actually, I could care less. This story was just horrid!
Jo Beverley - 4 stars. The best story in this mess. JB is a master of a short romance story. The H/h were great & the story was interesting.
Tanya Anne Crosby - 1 star. It started out OK, but the story degraded into a clichéd nightmare. There was no basis in reality at all. I guess we're just supposed to swallow that a Duke's daughter would marry the gardener's son (even though he's a lawyer now). The female lead couldn't make up her mind if she was a stuck up aristocrat or a defiant hoyden. I swear if she called the male lead "sirrah" ONE MORE TIME......
Samantha James - 1 star. I usually like SJ, but this is a really bad story. The female lead is a spoiled brat baby & the male lead ran hot & cold. The story reads like she pulled it out of a hat for this anthology.
Kathleen Woodiwiss - 0 stars. REALLY bad. So bad. I can't believe KW wrote this! Well, maybe I can. It's been a really long time since I read any of her books. I might have to put them in the to read pile. Too flowery, dramatic language.
It's 1803 South Carolina & Massa Jeff has "servants". That's a euphemism for slaves I guess. They talk in an exaggerated southern dialect. The villain is German & talks in pigeon English. Stupid things happen for the sake of SOMETHING happening. Plus, I get the impression we're still only getting part of the story. Did she write a full length novel with Jeff & Raelynn? Actually, I could care less. This story was just horrid!
March 31, 2013
Married At Midnight is four short stories written by four amazingly talented authors. Each story was very unique and even though very short, were all very entertaining and witty. The Four stories were 1. Determined Bride-Jo Beverly 2. A Kiss After Midnight -Tanya Anne Crosby 3. Scandal's Bride-Samantha James 4. Beyond The Kiss-Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. All of each story were beautifully written and carried on the theme of getting married quick, and the falling in love came after they get hitched, which a bit refreshing. Even though they were all too short for my taste, and I felt like there were some things missing as far as plot and characterization....that's the way it usually goes though with anthology, you always feel as though there is something missing....its why I don't read them too often. This time I felt like I hadn't read one in a while and its always good to shake things up a bit. Overall one of the best anthology's I have ever read, especially when these stories were written by some of my favorite authors!!! A Wonderful compilation of four love stories that will leave you thirsting for more!!! Very Entertaining and Fun!!!
August 4, 2013
So far I've only read Scandal's Bride by Samantha James. I'm having a MOC kick this weekend and this fitted perfectly.
Victoria is a slightly spoiled but good hearted young woman who is resistant to marriage due to the cheating husband of her friend Phoebe. Having a substantial dowry only seems to attract the wrong kind of man so she determines on a scandal to save her. Her plan involves spinsterhood, presumably becoming the mainstay of her widowed fathers life.
When everything goes awry she ends up being married to the luscious Miles Grayson, the very opposite of the fashionable fribbles she's avoiding. With totally erroneous views of each others characters, he thinking her a shallow party girl and her condemning him as representative of all men it takes a while for things to warm up.
I enjoyed the story. There was not a great deal of depth of course, being a novella but enough to get to know hero and heroine and believe they could be compatible.
The ending was sweet without being overly saccharine, well mostly ;-]. I liked it.
Victoria is a slightly spoiled but good hearted young woman who is resistant to marriage due to the cheating husband of her friend Phoebe. Having a substantial dowry only seems to attract the wrong kind of man so she determines on a scandal to save her. Her plan involves spinsterhood, presumably becoming the mainstay of her widowed fathers life.
When everything goes awry she ends up being married to the luscious Miles Grayson, the very opposite of the fashionable fribbles she's avoiding. With totally erroneous views of each others characters, he thinking her a shallow party girl and her condemning him as representative of all men it takes a while for things to warm up.
I enjoyed the story. There was not a great deal of depth of course, being a novella but enough to get to know hero and heroine and believe they could be compatible.
The ending was sweet without being overly saccharine, well mostly ;-]. I liked it.
August 17, 2012
This was a solid collection of novellas you wouldn't be ashamed to share with your grandma (incidentally I came across this book as a leftover from a grandmother's collection). These historicals all center around couples who are in a hurry to get hitched, and then the story follows the process of their falling in love after the wedding. So while the action can get pretty hot, it's not too scandalous because the couples are already married. The quality of the stories match the name recognition of the authors (high on both counts), but being almost 20 years old are just a touch dated for today's romance audience.
February 19, 2013
The Determined Bride by Jo Beverley 3 stars
The heroine starts as TSTL, fortunately not for long.
A Kiss After Midnight by Tanya Anne Crosby 4 stars
A really sweet story about childhood sweethearts being reunited.
Scandal's Bride by Samantha James 4 stars
A lovingly story with great characters.
Beyond The Kiss by KEW
Another bit of the story of Jeff and Raelynn, just before A season beyond a kiss.
The heroine starts as TSTL, fortunately not for long.
A Kiss After Midnight by Tanya Anne Crosby 4 stars
A really sweet story about childhood sweethearts being reunited.
Scandal's Bride by Samantha James 4 stars
A lovingly story with great characters.
Beyond The Kiss by KEW
Another bit of the story of Jeff and Raelynn, just before A season beyond a kiss.
August 26, 2016
The first story was a bit fun, the characters were good. The story line entertainment. 3.5
The second story I didn't like it much! The characters were not interesting, and the story line predictable. 2
The third story was good, I liked the characters and the story was good. 3
The fourth story was the best of all. The characters were good and really funny, besides this the story line was good. 3.5
(this is my first review, sorry if there's a mistake)
The second story I didn't like it much! The characters were not interesting, and the story line predictable. 2
The third story was good, I liked the characters and the story was good. 3
The fourth story was the best of all. The characters were good and really funny, besides this the story line was good. 3.5
(this is my first review, sorry if there's a mistake)
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