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La Vie en Roses #1.5
No Place Like Home
There’s nothing more festive than a winter romance, and in these heart-warming stories, love is a gift that can take you by surprise...
THE 24 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS by Linda Lael Miller
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Raynor and Addie Hutton together. But that was years ago. There's no way the miracles of Christmas—and the magic of true love—could possibly be hidden under one of its tiny flaps. Or could they?
CHRISTMAS ANGEL by Kat Martin
When Angel Summers' first love, Josh Coltrane, joined the Army, she vowed to hate him forever. But now he's back in Savannah for the holidays—wishing for a miracle that could heal both their hearts.
THE CHRISTMAS CAROUSEL by Mary Carter
Single mom Georgia Bradley can’t afford to fight the developers who want to tear down her beloved Rhode Island auction house—especially Adam Cavalier. But when she receives a mysterious gift, Adam becomes intrigued with its origin—and with Georgia...
A ROSE IN WINTER by Laura Florand
Allegra Caldrone knew the rule never to talk to strangers. But on a cold winter night in Provence, she breaks that rule—and more—with an irresistible man. Raoul Rosier seems thrillingly dangerous, yet why does Allegra feel so safe with him—even when she believes he’s a thief?
THE 24 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS by Linda Lael Miller
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Raynor and Addie Hutton together. But that was years ago. There's no way the miracles of Christmas—and the magic of true love—could possibly be hidden under one of its tiny flaps. Or could they?
CHRISTMAS ANGEL by Kat Martin
When Angel Summers' first love, Josh Coltrane, joined the Army, she vowed to hate him forever. But now he's back in Savannah for the holidays—wishing for a miracle that could heal both their hearts.
THE CHRISTMAS CAROUSEL by Mary Carter
Single mom Georgia Bradley can’t afford to fight the developers who want to tear down her beloved Rhode Island auction house—especially Adam Cavalier. But when she receives a mysterious gift, Adam becomes intrigued with its origin—and with Georgia...
A ROSE IN WINTER by Laura Florand
Allegra Caldrone knew the rule never to talk to strangers. But on a cold winter night in Provence, she breaks that rule—and more—with an irresistible man. Raoul Rosier seems thrillingly dangerous, yet why does Allegra feel so safe with him—even when she believes he’s a thief?
480 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 3, 2013
160 people are currently reading
1154 people want to read
About the author
Linda Lael Miller
552 books3,227 followersThe daughter of a town marshal, Linda Lael Miller is a #1 New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of more than 100 historical and contemporary novels, most of which reflect her love of the West. Raised in Northport, Washington, Linda pursued her wanderlust, living in London and Arizona and traveling the world before returning to the state of her birth to settle down on a spacious property outside Spokane.
Linda traces the birth of her writing career to the day when a Northport teacher told her that the stories she was writing were good, that she just might have a future in writing. Later, when she decided to write novels, she endured her share of rejection before she sold Fletcher’s Woman in 1983 to Pocket Books. Since then, Linda has successfully published historicals, contemporaries, paranormals, mysteries and thrillers before coming home, in a literal sense, and concentrating on novels with a Western flavor. For her devotion to her craft, the Romance Writers of America awarded her their prestigious Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
Long a passionate Civil War buff, Linda has studied the era avidly for almost thirty years. She has read literally hundreds of books on the subject, explored numerous battlegrounds and made many visits to her favorite, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where she has witnessed re-enactments of the legendary clash between North and South. Linda explores that turbulent time in The Yankee Widow, a May 7, 2019 MIRA Books hardcover, also available in digital and audiobook formats.
Dedicated to helping others, “The First Lady of the West” personally financed fifteen years of her Linda Lael Miller Scholarships for Women, which she awarded to women 25 years and older who were seeking to improve their lot in life through education. She anticipates that her next charitable endeavors will benefit four-legged critters.
More information about Linda and her novels is available at www.lindalaelmiller.com, on Facebook and from Nancy Berland Public Relations, nancy@nancyberland.com, 405-206-4748.
Linda traces the birth of her writing career to the day when a Northport teacher told her that the stories she was writing were good, that she just might have a future in writing. Later, when she decided to write novels, she endured her share of rejection before she sold Fletcher’s Woman in 1983 to Pocket Books. Since then, Linda has successfully published historicals, contemporaries, paranormals, mysteries and thrillers before coming home, in a literal sense, and concentrating on novels with a Western flavor. For her devotion to her craft, the Romance Writers of America awarded her their prestigious Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
Long a passionate Civil War buff, Linda has studied the era avidly for almost thirty years. She has read literally hundreds of books on the subject, explored numerous battlegrounds and made many visits to her favorite, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where she has witnessed re-enactments of the legendary clash between North and South. Linda explores that turbulent time in The Yankee Widow, a May 7, 2019 MIRA Books hardcover, also available in digital and audiobook formats.
Dedicated to helping others, “The First Lady of the West” personally financed fifteen years of her Linda Lael Miller Scholarships for Women, which she awarded to women 25 years and older who were seeking to improve their lot in life through education. She anticipates that her next charitable endeavors will benefit four-legged critters.
More information about Linda and her novels is available at www.lindalaelmiller.com, on Facebook and from Nancy Berland Public Relations, nancy@nancyberland.com, 405-206-4748.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
September 22, 2015
3.5 Stars
Only read "A Rose In Winter" (La Vie En Rose series) By Laura Florand
A contemporary romance with a dash of Red Riding Hood to it.
As always the author knows how to make things work! You may start with the dream, but real life is just waiting to join in ~this actually makes sense once you read the book o_O~
Full review to come.
Only read "A Rose In Winter" (La Vie En Rose series) By Laura Florand
A contemporary romance with a dash of Red Riding Hood to it.
As always the author knows how to make things work! You may start with the dream, but real life is just waiting to join in ~this actually makes sense once you read the book o_O~
Full review to come.
February 17, 2015
4 Stars for A Rose in Winter by Laura Florand.
I didn't read the other stories, but I loved Raoul and Allegra's story! Just what I needed to pick my mood up!
I didn't read the other stories, but I loved Raoul and Allegra's story! Just what I needed to pick my mood up!
April 13, 2015
PRE-READING: Totally reading this for Raoul and Allegra's story.
POST-READING: Awww that was sooooo sweet! Screw summer flings, I want a winter romance... I know I sound super corny, but this story was just too cute! Even with the melodramatics and everything.
POST-READING: Awww that was sooooo sweet! Screw summer flings, I want a winter romance... I know I sound super corny, but this story was just too cute! Even with the melodramatics and everything.
December 25, 2022
december 2022 : only read raoul and allegra's romance (once again) and it's still the most christmassy and magical romance i've ever read
december 2019: only reread raoul and allegra and it brought back all the laura florand feels combined with all the christmas feels
i only read raoul and allegra story (but i'll pick this anthology up again in december this year) which was absolutely F A B. i really really REALLY want a full book about these two, i want more in depth telling of their relationship and their personalities, i want to know what will allegra do with her thesis and what is raoul place now in the family as well, i want to see them as parents SO DAMN BAD, and i just want to read a book about them thriving in to their life!!!!!!!
december 2019: only reread raoul and allegra and it brought back all the laura florand feels combined with all the christmas feels
i only read raoul and allegra story (but i'll pick this anthology up again in december this year) which was absolutely F A B. i really really REALLY want a full book about these two, i want more in depth telling of their relationship and their personalities, i want to know what will allegra do with her thesis and what is raoul place now in the family as well, i want to see them as parents SO DAMN BAD, and i just want to read a book about them thriving in to their life!!!!!!!
January 31, 2023
First read: November 2015
I only read Laura Florand's story so yea this rating is for Raoul and Allegra. TOO SHORT OKAY. I NEED A FULL-LENGTH RAOUL AND ALLEGRA STORY.
Love the Raoul / wolf comparison.
Reread: August 2021
It's missing Laura Florand hours again-
Reread: January 2023
Had an emo reading Raoul's yearning to come home permanently pls these Rosiers
I only read Laura Florand's story so yea this rating is for Raoul and Allegra. TOO SHORT OKAY. I NEED A FULL-LENGTH RAOUL AND ALLEGRA STORY.
Love the Raoul / wolf comparison.
Reread: August 2021
It's missing Laura Florand hours again-
Reread: January 2023
Had an emo reading Raoul's yearning to come home permanently pls these Rosiers
December 9, 2021
I have never read from any of these authors before. I enjoyed each and every story. I was touched by each of them in one way or another. I look forward to seeking out books from each of these author in the future. Thank you Ladies.
December 6, 2015
Four star rating for Laura Florand's story 'A Rose in Winter", continue to love the Rosier family!
August 31, 2016
We all know I bought this Christmas collection for "A Rose In Winter" By Laura Florand and it was grand 4 stars.
A really lovely romance with Florand's trademark whole hearted heroes and a heroine who shows off the writer's deep understanding of human nature--here with an exploration of only childhood. This is a great retelling of Red Riding Hood in the same fascinating, complex, clever, subtle way that she retells Rapunzel in The Chocolate Kiss. In fact, the witch and her garden make a show in this novella as well. Best of all, the setting of a French Noel with its traditions is exactly the kind of details you want to snuggle up with at this time of year. While I wish the tale were longer and we got a little more of the heroine (I am not completely sure of her studies), the ground work Florand sets up for the rest of the cousins' stories in this series is flawless and all the secondary characters are top notch. Can't wait for the next book!
The 24 Days Of Christmas" by Linda Lael Miller 3 stars.
Very sweet second chance romance in a small town with a widowed Sheriff, two kids, and a woman starting over.
"Christmas Angel" by Kat Martin 2 stars
It is really hard to win me over to a post civil war romance with a former belle heroine and all through the medical history here is interesting, this one didn't work for me either.
"The Christmas Carousel" by Mary Carter 2 stars
I find the trope of the evil developer not my favorite and this story has it. The backstory is lovely but the romance not so much.
.
A really lovely romance with Florand's trademark whole hearted heroes and a heroine who shows off the writer's deep understanding of human nature--here with an exploration of only childhood. This is a great retelling of Red Riding Hood in the same fascinating, complex, clever, subtle way that she retells Rapunzel in The Chocolate Kiss. In fact, the witch and her garden make a show in this novella as well. Best of all, the setting of a French Noel with its traditions is exactly the kind of details you want to snuggle up with at this time of year. While I wish the tale were longer and we got a little more of the heroine (I am not completely sure of her studies), the ground work Florand sets up for the rest of the cousins' stories in this series is flawless and all the secondary characters are top notch. Can't wait for the next book!
The 24 Days Of Christmas" by Linda Lael Miller 3 stars.
Very sweet second chance romance in a small town with a widowed Sheriff, two kids, and a woman starting over.
"Christmas Angel" by Kat Martin 2 stars
It is really hard to win me over to a post civil war romance with a former belle heroine and all through the medical history here is interesting, this one didn't work for me either.
"The Christmas Carousel" by Mary Carter 2 stars
I find the trope of the evil developer not my favorite and this story has it. The backstory is lovely but the romance not so much.
.
June 23, 2017
Just the Florand
January 4, 2022
No Place Like Home
by Linda Lael Miller, Kat Martin, Mary Carter, Laura Florand
There’s nothing more festive than a winter romance, and in these heartwarming stories, love is a gift that can take you by surprise . . .
“The 24 Days of Christmas” by Linda Lael Miller
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Raynor and Addie Hutton together. But that was years ago. There’s no way the miracles of Christmas—and the magic of true love—could possibly be hidden under one of its tiny flaps. Or could they?
This is Addie Hutton and Frank Raynor along with his 7 year old daughter Lizzie's story.
“Christmas Angel” by Kat Martin
When Angel Summers’s first love, Josh Coltrane, joined the Army, she vowed to hate him forever. But now he’s back in Savannah for the holidays—wishing for a miracle that could heal both their hearts.
This is Angel Summers and Josh Coltrane's story.
“The Christmas Carousel” by Mary Carter
Single mom Georgia Bradley can’t afford to fight the developers who want to tear down her beloved Rhode Island auction house—especially Adam Cavalier. But when she receives a mysterious gift, Adam becomes intrigued with its origin—and with Georgia . . .
This is Georgia Bradley and Adam Cavalier's story.
“A Rose in Winter” by Laura Florand
Allegra Caldron knew the rule never to talk to strangers. But on a cold winter night in Provence, she breaks that rule--and more--with an irresistible man. Raoul Rosier seems thrillingly dangerous, yet why does Allegra feel so safe with him--even when she believes he's a thief?
This is Allegra Caldron and Raoul Rosier's story.
My review is for “The 24 Days of Christmas” by Linda Lael Miller
Previously published in JINGLE ALL THE WAY
A holiday miracle to remember . . .
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Rayner and Addie Hutton together. But that was years ago. Since then Addie has written herself out of her father’s will, gotten herself blacklisted as a reporter, and had her husband leave her for a younger woman. The only good decision she seems to have made is to move back home, even if Frank now owns that home and is renting the apartment over the garage to her. Not that she thinks there’s anything there. There’s no reason to get wrapped up in the holiday cheer. Because Christmas miracles are for the movies. Real life is about unexpected families—and the magic of true love—and could there be a happy ending after all? This is Addie Hutton and Frank Raynor along with his 7 year old daughter Lizzie's story.
This is Addie Hutton,stepson Henry and Frank Raynor along with his 7 year old daughter Lizzie's story.
Addie moves back home.
Addie Hutton is returning to her hometown after making it big in Los Angeles as a journalist.
Frank put up an advent calendar to help Addie feel at home.
Frank now owns the home and is renting the apartment over the garage to her.
“Daddy?”
He turned to see his seven-year-old daughter, Lissie, framed in the doorway. She was wearing a golden halo of her own design, constructed from a coat hanger and an old tinsel garland filched from the boxes of Christmas decorations downstairs.
“Does this make me look like an angel?”
Frank felt a squeeze in his chest as he made a show of assessing the rest of the outfit—jeans, snow boots, and a pink T-shirt that said “Brat Princess” on the front. “Yeah, Lisser,” he said. “You’ve got it going on.”
I highly recommend reading.
“The 24 Days of Christmas” by Linda Lael Miller is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Linda Lael Miller.
by Linda Lael Miller, Kat Martin, Mary Carter, Laura Florand
There’s nothing more festive than a winter romance, and in these heartwarming stories, love is a gift that can take you by surprise . . .
“The 24 Days of Christmas” by Linda Lael Miller
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Raynor and Addie Hutton together. But that was years ago. There’s no way the miracles of Christmas—and the magic of true love—could possibly be hidden under one of its tiny flaps. Or could they?
This is Addie Hutton and Frank Raynor along with his 7 year old daughter Lizzie's story.
“Christmas Angel” by Kat Martin
When Angel Summers’s first love, Josh Coltrane, joined the Army, she vowed to hate him forever. But now he’s back in Savannah for the holidays—wishing for a miracle that could heal both their hearts.
This is Angel Summers and Josh Coltrane's story.
“The Christmas Carousel” by Mary Carter
Single mom Georgia Bradley can’t afford to fight the developers who want to tear down her beloved Rhode Island auction house—especially Adam Cavalier. But when she receives a mysterious gift, Adam becomes intrigued with its origin—and with Georgia . . .
This is Georgia Bradley and Adam Cavalier's story.
“A Rose in Winter” by Laura Florand
Allegra Caldron knew the rule never to talk to strangers. But on a cold winter night in Provence, she breaks that rule--and more--with an irresistible man. Raoul Rosier seems thrillingly dangerous, yet why does Allegra feel so safe with him--even when she believes he's a thief?
This is Allegra Caldron and Raoul Rosier's story.
My review is for “The 24 Days of Christmas” by Linda Lael Miller
Previously published in JINGLE ALL THE WAY
A holiday miracle to remember . . .
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Rayner and Addie Hutton together. But that was years ago. Since then Addie has written herself out of her father’s will, gotten herself blacklisted as a reporter, and had her husband leave her for a younger woman. The only good decision she seems to have made is to move back home, even if Frank now owns that home and is renting the apartment over the garage to her. Not that she thinks there’s anything there. There’s no reason to get wrapped up in the holiday cheer. Because Christmas miracles are for the movies. Real life is about unexpected families—and the magic of true love—and could there be a happy ending after all? This is Addie Hutton and Frank Raynor along with his 7 year old daughter Lizzie's story.
This is Addie Hutton,stepson Henry and Frank Raynor along with his 7 year old daughter Lizzie's story.
Addie moves back home.
Addie Hutton is returning to her hometown after making it big in Los Angeles as a journalist.
Frank put up an advent calendar to help Addie feel at home.
Frank now owns the home and is renting the apartment over the garage to her.
“Daddy?”
He turned to see his seven-year-old daughter, Lissie, framed in the doorway. She was wearing a golden halo of her own design, constructed from a coat hanger and an old tinsel garland filched from the boxes of Christmas decorations downstairs.
“Does this make me look like an angel?”
Frank felt a squeeze in his chest as he made a show of assessing the rest of the outfit—jeans, snow boots, and a pink T-shirt that said “Brat Princess” on the front. “Yeah, Lisser,” he said. “You’ve got it going on.”
I highly recommend reading.
“The 24 Days of Christmas” by Linda Lael Miller is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Linda Lael Miller.
December 10, 2020
I gave it a thre because I only liked three of the short stories
October 23, 2022
The Christmas Carousel - Mary Carter - 2/5 - Okay, so Georgia is a widow with a son who runs an auction house for antiques and treasures. She loves this place. Adam is an investor and real estate developer who wants to buy out the town center and make a mini-mall. Georgia is the last hold out. The angst of that situation is very good, but I struggled to feel empathy for Adam. As charming as he was, it wasn't difficult for me to remember that he was essentially ruining this woman's life and he felt very little guilt over it (even if it was easy for the heroine to forget). And even if he did feel guilt, he was still going to go through with it. And Georgia would naturally blame him. Which made their romance very difficult to get behind. And I think I found it even worse that in the end, he got exactly what he wanted - he gets to build a mini-mall in a quaint, New England downtown area. Yuck! Yes, she realizes it's for the best, but it's still really disheartening. And there really was no passion between these two - a lot of heated looks, but the romance was blah for me.
A Rose in Winter - Laura Florand - 4/5 - I'm fairly certain this is part of a series that I have never read before, but after reading this story I will probably be searching out more of this author. Allegra is a unique character - outgoing and friendly, she has never met a stranger. Raoul wants to be accepted at home for Christmas and has come home for that purpose. And he meets up with Allegra and sparks and attraction fly and being together is like coming home. But Raoul, in his desire to be accepted by family, inadvertently hurts her and he "becomes a stranger" to her. I like how that worked out - how initially there was trust, and then not and they had to build it back again. I really like how this story was handled. The characters were great, their angst was pretty great and their romance was very believable, despite the "insta-love."
The 24 Days of Christmas - Linda Lael Miller - 2/5 - Addie Hutton is renting a house on a property that used to belong to her dad and from a man that she used to be engaged to. Many years later, the guy, Frank, is a widow and has a daughter of his own. Addie too has been married and is taking care of her stepson. In the days up to Christmas, they sort of learn how to be a family. This is a very sweet (little too sweet for my tastes) story about two people coming together again. Although I liked the set up and the fact that both characters come together with absolutely no bitterness about how things ended in the past, I have to wonder if it's because the two characters had so little chemistry together. There was the opportunity for tension, angst and passion - but it didn't really deliver. As a result, I struggled to stay interested and connected to the story. The kids were really sweet though.
Christmas Angel - Kat Martin - 3/5 - Hero and heroine have a history - he left her to join the Union Army while she stayed behind as a part of the Confederacy. They did not part on good terms. Now he's back with the army as a doctor and she is not very happy to see him (or any Union officer for that matter). A decent story - I'm not a huge fan of anything Civil War related and this is no exception. The characters are worthwhile and the plot engaging - I just don't like the bitterness and the time period of the Civil War. I also don't care for how quickly Angel just gives up on her convictions and hatred - it needed a bit more working through in my opinion.
A Rose in Winter - Laura Florand - 4/5 - I'm fairly certain this is part of a series that I have never read before, but after reading this story I will probably be searching out more of this author. Allegra is a unique character - outgoing and friendly, she has never met a stranger. Raoul wants to be accepted at home for Christmas and has come home for that purpose. And he meets up with Allegra and sparks and attraction fly and being together is like coming home. But Raoul, in his desire to be accepted by family, inadvertently hurts her and he "becomes a stranger" to her. I like how that worked out - how initially there was trust, and then not and they had to build it back again. I really like how this story was handled. The characters were great, their angst was pretty great and their romance was very believable, despite the "insta-love."
The 24 Days of Christmas - Linda Lael Miller - 2/5 - Addie Hutton is renting a house on a property that used to belong to her dad and from a man that she used to be engaged to. Many years later, the guy, Frank, is a widow and has a daughter of his own. Addie too has been married and is taking care of her stepson. In the days up to Christmas, they sort of learn how to be a family. This is a very sweet (little too sweet for my tastes) story about two people coming together again. Although I liked the set up and the fact that both characters come together with absolutely no bitterness about how things ended in the past, I have to wonder if it's because the two characters had so little chemistry together. There was the opportunity for tension, angst and passion - but it didn't really deliver. As a result, I struggled to stay interested and connected to the story. The kids were really sweet though.
Christmas Angel - Kat Martin - 3/5 - Hero and heroine have a history - he left her to join the Union Army while she stayed behind as a part of the Confederacy. They did not part on good terms. Now he's back with the army as a doctor and she is not very happy to see him (or any Union officer for that matter). A decent story - I'm not a huge fan of anything Civil War related and this is no exception. The characters are worthwhile and the plot engaging - I just don't like the bitterness and the time period of the Civil War. I also don't care for how quickly Angel just gives up on her convictions and hatred - it needed a bit more working through in my opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2013
As a follower of Laura Florand's La Vie en Roses series, I was looking forward to this short story and discovering some authors in this anthology. Outside of the loose theme of trying to find a place that feels like home, these 4 stories could not be more divergent. I like anthologies because you get little gifts of sweet fun, however sometimes authors rush the details and leaves the reader trying to fill the gaps...which was true for all the stories.
1. Christmas Carousel by Mary Carter
Georgia has fond memories of riding a carousel with her father around Christmas. One year, she meets a dying girl named Cindy. Fast forward: Georgia's a widow with a son, runs an auction house in a sleepy old downtown which developers are trying to buy and make into a mall, then she receives a carousel horse from her deceased father for Christmas in front of one of the developers, who is Cindy's brother, Ben. Did you follow all that? Ben and Georgia decide to track down who actually sent the horse and get stuck in some back water area in Rhode Island during a snow storm. There was so much going on in this story, I couldn't feel any connection between Ben and Georgia outside of guilty gratitude that does not equate passion. 2 out of 5 stars.
2. A Rose in Winter by Laura Florand
Allegra is in the south of France for Christmas while she is researching for her PHD. Raoul is head of the African division of his Rosier family business but wants to come home. They have a one night stand, which leads them to a misunderstanding in the morning. As they confront each other, they both learn of each other's desire to feel at ease with themselves and their families. The beginning of this story was a bit stilted, but getting past all that, you see the heart of both Allegra and Raoul, along with some feisty Rosier family members who, hopefully with have books of their own. Steamiest of the 4 stories. 4 out of 5 stars.
3. 24 Days of Christmas by Linda Lael Miller originally published in 2004
Addie's world crashed down around her after an article she wrote had her fired and running away from LA to her home town on CO. Calling on her former fiancé, Frank, who is now the town Chief of Police and widow, she is trying to start over. Then her ex husband dumps her step son on her while he is away on his honeymoon. This story was the BEST of the 4 and really delved into what "home" means and if it can be found in a place or a person. Each of the characters were sweet and flawed. It made you want I make your own advent calendar to follow along. 5 stars!
4. Christmas Angel by Kat Martin originally published in 1997! Set is post Civil War Savannah. Angel never forgave her love, Josh for leaving her to fight for the North. Now he is back in his "blue belly Yank" uniform as a Dr. running the local, dilapidated hospital filled with wounded soldiers. I stopped reading this and couldn't finish. Southern Civil War settings are not my thing, but even so, I just couldn't get into the characters. I didn't care that she lost her plantation, or how they still felt tingly around each other. I am not sure how the publishers chose this story, but it was a DNF for me. 0 stars.
Overall, I would have bought this book for Laura Florand, but was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reading Copy. I was pleasantly surprised by Ms. Miller's story, but the other 2 were a waste of time.
1. Christmas Carousel by Mary Carter
Georgia has fond memories of riding a carousel with her father around Christmas. One year, she meets a dying girl named Cindy. Fast forward: Georgia's a widow with a son, runs an auction house in a sleepy old downtown which developers are trying to buy and make into a mall, then she receives a carousel horse from her deceased father for Christmas in front of one of the developers, who is Cindy's brother, Ben. Did you follow all that? Ben and Georgia decide to track down who actually sent the horse and get stuck in some back water area in Rhode Island during a snow storm. There was so much going on in this story, I couldn't feel any connection between Ben and Georgia outside of guilty gratitude that does not equate passion. 2 out of 5 stars.
2. A Rose in Winter by Laura Florand
Allegra is in the south of France for Christmas while she is researching for her PHD. Raoul is head of the African division of his Rosier family business but wants to come home. They have a one night stand, which leads them to a misunderstanding in the morning. As they confront each other, they both learn of each other's desire to feel at ease with themselves and their families. The beginning of this story was a bit stilted, but getting past all that, you see the heart of both Allegra and Raoul, along with some feisty Rosier family members who, hopefully with have books of their own. Steamiest of the 4 stories. 4 out of 5 stars.
3. 24 Days of Christmas by Linda Lael Miller originally published in 2004
Addie's world crashed down around her after an article she wrote had her fired and running away from LA to her home town on CO. Calling on her former fiancé, Frank, who is now the town Chief of Police and widow, she is trying to start over. Then her ex husband dumps her step son on her while he is away on his honeymoon. This story was the BEST of the 4 and really delved into what "home" means and if it can be found in a place or a person. Each of the characters were sweet and flawed. It made you want I make your own advent calendar to follow along. 5 stars!
4. Christmas Angel by Kat Martin originally published in 1997! Set is post Civil War Savannah. Angel never forgave her love, Josh for leaving her to fight for the North. Now he is back in his "blue belly Yank" uniform as a Dr. running the local, dilapidated hospital filled with wounded soldiers. I stopped reading this and couldn't finish. Southern Civil War settings are not my thing, but even so, I just couldn't get into the characters. I didn't care that she lost her plantation, or how they still felt tingly around each other. I am not sure how the publishers chose this story, but it was a DNF for me. 0 stars.
Overall, I would have bought this book for Laura Florand, but was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reading Copy. I was pleasantly surprised by Ms. Miller's story, but the other 2 were a waste of time.
February 13, 2017
Initially, I bought the book for the short-story by Laura Florand but even if it's still my favorite story, I loved the others stories too.
"The 24 Days Of Christmas" by Linda Lael Miller : 3.75
While she was engaged to Frank, Abbie decided to place her career first and built her life away from her small hometown and Frank. Years and disappointments later, she is back for Christmas and it is with Henry, her stepson, that she moved into the house she occupied before, house inhabited also by Frank, a widower now, and her daughter Lizzie. But is their love really a distant memory ?
I loved this story (Lizzie and Henry were sooo cute), but I would have liked more details on the life and past of Abbie and perhaps a bit more twists with Toby =)
"Christmas Angel" by Kat Martin: 3
Before the Civil War, Angel and Josh were engaged, but when the war broke out, Angel remained true to her southern roots and Josh joined the side of the Yankees. Now, the Civil War is over and Josh is back to Savannah, hoping to win Angel's heart again.
The one I liked the least, and yet I usually love historical romances: the story as the characters are a little too artificial and if the story had potential, ultimately I was disappointed.
"The Christmas Carousel" by Mary Carter: 3.75
Single mother, Georgia held a small auction house in Rhode Island but, as she just recovered from the death of her father, she must deal with unscrupulous developers who want to buy her auction house to build a mall instead. But when one of them, Adam Cavalier, appears on her doorstep, a Scrooge far too handsome, Georgia begins to think that maybe Christmas will not be as sad as she expected this year.
My second favorite story, a very nice Christmas romance that made me dream and become a kid again =) I have a terrible urge to have a turn of carousel since my reading ><
"A Rose In Winter" By Laura Florand: 4
While she is away from home for Christmas, Allegra came across and succumbed to the very attractive Raoul Rosier, back home for the holidays. But what she thought to be only a one-night stand quickly turns into something far more valuable ...
My favorite !! As usual, I love the writing style of the author who completely immerses us in a very romantic Provence, the characters are very endearing and the story is great !! I loved Allegra, a character funny and full of happiness, who is also a cousin of Magalie Chaudron (the wife of Philippe Lyonnais) and her relationship with Raoul charmed me =)
I look forward to reading the next adventures of the Rosier family =D
One regret: TOO SHORT !!
"The 24 Days Of Christmas" by Linda Lael Miller : 3.75
While she was engaged to Frank, Abbie decided to place her career first and built her life away from her small hometown and Frank. Years and disappointments later, she is back for Christmas and it is with Henry, her stepson, that she moved into the house she occupied before, house inhabited also by Frank, a widower now, and her daughter Lizzie. But is their love really a distant memory ?
I loved this story (Lizzie and Henry were sooo cute), but I would have liked more details on the life and past of Abbie and perhaps a bit more twists with Toby =)
"Christmas Angel" by Kat Martin: 3
Before the Civil War, Angel and Josh were engaged, but when the war broke out, Angel remained true to her southern roots and Josh joined the side of the Yankees. Now, the Civil War is over and Josh is back to Savannah, hoping to win Angel's heart again.
The one I liked the least, and yet I usually love historical romances: the story as the characters are a little too artificial and if the story had potential, ultimately I was disappointed.
"The Christmas Carousel" by Mary Carter: 3.75
Single mother, Georgia held a small auction house in Rhode Island but, as she just recovered from the death of her father, she must deal with unscrupulous developers who want to buy her auction house to build a mall instead. But when one of them, Adam Cavalier, appears on her doorstep, a Scrooge far too handsome, Georgia begins to think that maybe Christmas will not be as sad as she expected this year.
My second favorite story, a very nice Christmas romance that made me dream and become a kid again =) I have a terrible urge to have a turn of carousel since my reading ><
"A Rose In Winter" By Laura Florand: 4
While she is away from home for Christmas, Allegra came across and succumbed to the very attractive Raoul Rosier, back home for the holidays. But what she thought to be only a one-night stand quickly turns into something far more valuable ...
My favorite !! As usual, I love the writing style of the author who completely immerses us in a very romantic Provence, the characters are very endearing and the story is great !! I loved Allegra, a character funny and full of happiness, who is also a cousin of Magalie Chaudron (the wife of Philippe Lyonnais) and her relationship with Raoul charmed me =)
I look forward to reading the next adventures of the Rosier family =D
One regret: TOO SHORT !!
December 11, 2013
My favorite story from this anthology is hands down Laura Florand's "A Rose in Winter." While all the stories had that wonderful feel of coming home for Christmas that I was looking forward to in this book, this one story stood out above the rest for me.
This is a powerful anthology featuring four very well known writers.
This is a powerful anthology featuring four very well known writers.
Read
January 16, 2014I picked up No Place Like Home because of the inclusion of A Rose in Winter by Laura Florand. I enjoyed getting to know more about the Rosiers and am looking forward to reading the remaining four cousins' stories.
March 25, 2021
4 stars to the Laura Florand novella
May 11, 2019
Each of these stories was unique; each centered around either celebrating Christmas at home or finding a new home (emotionally) for Christmas.
The Christmas Carousel (Mary Carter)
The story opens when Georgia Bradley helps a sickly girl ride a carousel at Christmas; not long after, she learns that the young girl has died. Twenty years later, Georgia is facing a bleak Christmas season. The other tenants in a building in the center of a lovely, small, Rhode Island town are talking about taking a buy-out from a developer. She is devastated by her growing sense of losses until a mysterious box arrives at her auction house.
I had an incredibly strong reaction to this short story; I cried through much of it. Perhaps it is because my brother died of cancer and this reminds me of the times we lost because of his death.
A Rose In Winter (Laura Florand)
Allegra Caldron is a graduate student doing research in France at Christmas. Although Allegra had decided to stay for the holidays, at the last minute, she realizes she wants to go home. Instead, Allegra strikes up a conversation with a stranger, Raoul Rosier. He invites her to experience a unique Christmas with his extended family.
For me, this was the weakest short story of the group; too much seemed to have been left out so that the reader was inferring a great deal. After reading some other reviews, I find that this author has been doing a series on this extended family. No wonder so much seemed to have been left out of the story.
The 24 Days Of Christmas (Linda Lael Miller)
After both marriage and career disasters, Addie Hutton has returned to her hometown. The man she left behind, Frank Rayner, has married another, had a daughter and survived the death of his wife. Addie moves into the garage apartment behind Frank and tries to sort out her life. It is Christmas and the matchbox advent calendar from Addie and Frank's past helps them to take another look at their past and future.
Christmas Angel (Kat Martin)
It is the Christmas after the end of the Civil War and things are still desperate in Georgia. When a group of vanquished Reb families derails the Union train (full of food and medical supplies), the town's citizens smile across their kitchen tables, enjoying food meant for Union officers. Southern lovely Angel Summers sees her fiancee from her past (Union surgeon, Dr. Josh Coltraine) while he is searching for his lost supplies. Angel swore she would hate Josh forever, but does she?
The Christmas Carousel (Mary Carter)
The story opens when Georgia Bradley helps a sickly girl ride a carousel at Christmas; not long after, she learns that the young girl has died. Twenty years later, Georgia is facing a bleak Christmas season. The other tenants in a building in the center of a lovely, small, Rhode Island town are talking about taking a buy-out from a developer. She is devastated by her growing sense of losses until a mysterious box arrives at her auction house.
I had an incredibly strong reaction to this short story; I cried through much of it. Perhaps it is because my brother died of cancer and this reminds me of the times we lost because of his death.
A Rose In Winter (Laura Florand)
Allegra Caldron is a graduate student doing research in France at Christmas. Although Allegra had decided to stay for the holidays, at the last minute, she realizes she wants to go home. Instead, Allegra strikes up a conversation with a stranger, Raoul Rosier. He invites her to experience a unique Christmas with his extended family.
For me, this was the weakest short story of the group; too much seemed to have been left out so that the reader was inferring a great deal. After reading some other reviews, I find that this author has been doing a series on this extended family. No wonder so much seemed to have been left out of the story.
The 24 Days Of Christmas (Linda Lael Miller)
After both marriage and career disasters, Addie Hutton has returned to her hometown. The man she left behind, Frank Rayner, has married another, had a daughter and survived the death of his wife. Addie moves into the garage apartment behind Frank and tries to sort out her life. It is Christmas and the matchbox advent calendar from Addie and Frank's past helps them to take another look at their past and future.
Christmas Angel (Kat Martin)
It is the Christmas after the end of the Civil War and things are still desperate in Georgia. When a group of vanquished Reb families derails the Union train (full of food and medical supplies), the town's citizens smile across their kitchen tables, enjoying food meant for Union officers. Southern lovely Angel Summers sees her fiancee from her past (Union surgeon, Dr. Josh Coltraine) while he is searching for his lost supplies. Angel swore she would hate Josh forever, but does she?
November 21, 2016
11/20/16 Reading my comments on earlier reads, I realize I've changed my mind a bit. I actually sought out and bought this book, solely for Florand's entry. I really don't care that much for the rest of the authors' stories, but I decided that Florand's is worth the cost for the whole. I love having it available to me for re-reading whenever I feel the need. I've bumped my rating up to 5 stars. I still resent having to pay for mediocre other books just to get the jewel that I wanted to keep.
PLEASE NOTE: This 5-star is for Florand's "Rose in Winter" ONLY. The others are 2 to 3 stars for me.
11/20/16 Re-read: For a happy boost, and because it is a perfect holiday season read, I re-read Laura Florand's "Rose in Winter". I love this story and this couple is great together. I love they way they talk things out and communicate. If you are getting ready to start Florand's "Vie en Roses" series, I strongly encourage you to get your hands on this novella because it sets you up for the series and is a great introduction to the family, their history, and their dynamics. Don't miss this one.
============================================================================
EARLIER REVIEWS: (Contains readerly/consumer opinions. Please skip if you don't like that kind of thing.)
2nd warning: This is more of a reader opinion than a review. I loved Florand's novella, and recommend it to you highly IF what I'm going to rant about now will not bother you.
2/22/14 Before reading: I feel stupid wasting interlibrary loan on a paperback romance anthology. But my library doesn't have this, I really want to read the Florand story, and I don't want to pay for this overpriced book particularly since reviews aren't terribly great. I'll post a review once I've received & read the book.
* * * * *
3/6/14 Upon reading: First of all, I need to warn you if you've read this far that my 4-star vote is for Florand's "A Rose in Winter" only. (I also read Linda Lael Miller's "The 24 Days of Christmas" which was sweet, old-fashioned and forgettable. I'd give it 2.5. I skipped the other novellas as I'm not a fan of Christmas-themes or very short novellas. No offense to other authors involved is intended.)
So....the love story between Raoul and Allegra is very sweet. They are a great couple. I really wish I could have spent MORE time with them. But what really bugged me about the book was that Florand put in all this backstory and plot elements that were never resolved. THAT was frustrating! I'm still peeved. (Added later: Oops, I didn't realize at the time that these storylines were set ups for the entire "La Vie en Roses" series.)
We have: See why I say Argh!?!
So, as a reader I'm PISSED. This was too good of a story hook to just be thrown out as bait.
Also, If it was intended to either 1)attract new Florand readers, or 2)serve as a taster to the La Vie en Roses series, it just doesn't work well for READERS either way. This type of anthology is rarely a keeper, few are going to go back and order it, and we readers still have no continuance of the series available to us. (Except for Lea's story, which other than her being a cousin of Raoul has nothing to do with the plot introduced here.)
So, here's hoping that since Florand has decided to move to self-publishing, we readers will eventually get to continue on with the series hopefully in full book length, and several of them at that. I'll be watching for them. As well, I hope Florand will eventually self-publish this novella or at least expand on it. I'd really like to add it to my collection. But, as stated below, I really don't want to pay for a bunch of fluff that I'm not interested in reading just to own this novella.
P.S. And, just to clarify, as a reader, I'm glad Florand's moving to self-publishing. Again, as a reader, I owe no loyalty to publishers that I can see. (Plus, they pull this kind of junk which I find aggravating.)
I'm predicting Publishing is going to die sooner rather than later because this kind of business model just plain doesn't work for me the consumer.
Okay, enough ranting. If you happen to read this and want to comment, I'd enjoy seeing others thoughts.
* * * * *
(P.S. I still feel this way so am leaving it in.)
A Suggestion for E-book publishers:
I really wish we could buy stories from anthologies individually. I'd pay $2 for one of these stories, but really don't care to pay the whole price for the package.
Publishers? Are you listening? I bet there are more customers like me out there.
PLEASE NOTE: This 5-star is for Florand's "Rose in Winter" ONLY. The others are 2 to 3 stars for me.
11/20/16 Re-read: For a happy boost, and because it is a perfect holiday season read, I re-read Laura Florand's "Rose in Winter". I love this story and this couple is great together. I love they way they talk things out and communicate. If you are getting ready to start Florand's "Vie en Roses" series, I strongly encourage you to get your hands on this novella because it sets you up for the series and is a great introduction to the family, their history, and their dynamics. Don't miss this one.
============================================================================
EARLIER REVIEWS: (Contains readerly/consumer opinions. Please skip if you don't like that kind of thing.)
2nd warning: This is more of a reader opinion than a review. I loved Florand's novella, and recommend it to you highly IF what I'm going to rant about now will not bother you.
2/22/14 Before reading: I feel stupid wasting interlibrary loan on a paperback romance anthology. But my library doesn't have this, I really want to read the Florand story, and I don't want to pay for this overpriced book particularly since reviews aren't terribly great. I'll post a review once I've received & read the book.
* * * * *
3/6/14 Upon reading: First of all, I need to warn you if you've read this far that my 4-star vote is for Florand's "A Rose in Winter" only. (I also read Linda Lael Miller's "The 24 Days of Christmas" which was sweet, old-fashioned and forgettable. I'd give it 2.5. I skipped the other novellas as I'm not a fan of Christmas-themes or very short novellas. No offense to other authors involved is intended.)
So....the love story between Raoul and Allegra is very sweet. They are a great couple. I really wish I could have spent MORE time with them. But what really bugged me about the book was that Florand put in all this backstory and plot elements that were never resolved. THAT was frustrating! I'm still peeved. (Added later: Oops, I didn't realize at the time that these storylines were set ups for the entire "La Vie en Roses" series.)
We have: See why I say Argh!?!
So, as a reader I'm PISSED. This was too good of a story hook to just be thrown out as bait.
Also, If it was intended to either 1)attract new Florand readers, or 2)serve as a taster to the La Vie en Roses series, it just doesn't work well for READERS either way. This type of anthology is rarely a keeper, few are going to go back and order it, and we readers still have no continuance of the series available to us. (Except for Lea's story, which other than her being a cousin of Raoul has nothing to do with the plot introduced here.)
So, here's hoping that since Florand has decided to move to self-publishing, we readers will eventually get to continue on with the series hopefully in full book length, and several of them at that. I'll be watching for them. As well, I hope Florand will eventually self-publish this novella or at least expand on it. I'd really like to add it to my collection. But, as stated below, I really don't want to pay for a bunch of fluff that I'm not interested in reading just to own this novella.
P.S. And, just to clarify, as a reader, I'm glad Florand's moving to self-publishing. Again, as a reader, I owe no loyalty to publishers that I can see. (Plus, they pull this kind of junk which I find aggravating.)
I'm predicting Publishing is going to die sooner rather than later because this kind of business model just plain doesn't work for me the consumer.
Okay, enough ranting. If you happen to read this and want to comment, I'd enjoy seeing others thoughts.
* * * * *
(P.S. I still feel this way so am leaving it in.)
A Suggestion for E-book publishers:
I really wish we could buy stories from anthologies individually. I'd pay $2 for one of these stories, but really don't care to pay the whole price for the package.
Publishers? Are you listening? I bet there are more customers like me out there.
January 12, 2022
Loved the first three!
I didn't realize this was a book composed of four stories! The first story was my favorite... I think... I'm very sentimental. I thought I'd have to quit reading after the first chapter! I couldn't NOT cry. But, I continued. It was worth it. The story was so endearing!! The 2nd story; after reading the first chapter, I thought I would quit... Too much sexy time. Lol, but again, I continued. This was a good story, too. Loved the ending!!!! Loved how it played out! 3rd story: it was good, but not as good as the other two. The 4th I didn't read. Sorry. I just don't link the era it was set in. Just wasn't me...
I didn't realize this was a book composed of four stories! The first story was my favorite... I think... I'm very sentimental. I thought I'd have to quit reading after the first chapter! I couldn't NOT cry. But, I continued. It was worth it. The story was so endearing!! The 2nd story; after reading the first chapter, I thought I would quit... Too much sexy time. Lol, but again, I continued. This was a good story, too. Loved the ending!!!! Loved how it played out! 3rd story: it was good, but not as good as the other two. The 4th I didn't read. Sorry. I just don't link the era it was set in. Just wasn't me...
December 16, 2015
Picked this up because one of my favorite authors was in it but the whole thing was pretty good and considering that it's December this was actually a really good time to read it.
The Christmas Carousel by Mary Carter:
Georgia Bradley is a single mom and the owner of the Rhode Island auction house The Treasure Chest. Georgia loves the auction house and all the memories surrounding it. However, business hasn't been the best lately and she's finding that she can't afford to fight the developers who want to tear down her place and put up a discount mall. Worse, one of the developers, the handsome Adam Cavalier, is giving Georgia butterflies and a serious case of deja vu. Adam seems to be interested in Georgia as well but with his business poised to destroy Georgia's livelihood and home there's no way she'll ever give him a chance. Then the auction house receives a package that brings back memories from bother Adam and Georgia's past. On a whim they investigate where the package came from and Georgia realizes that Adam is much more than a scrooge.
I thought that story was pretty good. Georgia and Ranger were pretty good characters and I enjoyed reading them. There was some cheese but overall it was rather pleasant. The only thing I had a bit of an issue with was the character of Adam and it was mainly because of a unrealistic portrayal of how he dealt with Georgia. Seriously how did he not manage to have a face to face with her before going out to visit her sister? Other than that the story was good read overall.
A Rose in Winter by Laura Florand:
Allegra Caldrone meets Raoul Rosier in a bar one night when she's trying to fight off the loneliness of the cold windy winter night in Provence. She knows the rules about strangers but with Raoul's amber eyes, the scent of fir surrounding him and the old mixture of danger and safety she gets from him, Allegra throws caution to the wind and invites him back to her little home she leased while she's doing her research. After a wonderful night of passion, Allegra wakes up to see Raoul pocketing a gift she received from Madame Delatour, a 94 yr old woman who is helping Allegra on her research on scents trail and the perfume immigration. Convinced that Raoul is a thief, Allegra thinks she's made the biggest mistake of her life but there things that Allegra doesn't know about Raoul. Raoul knows he messed up but he will do anything for Allegra to forgive and love him again.
I am a fan of Laura Florand's story and I was not disappointed. I thought it was very sweet. The characters were well written and humorous. Mrs. Florand likes to use fairy tales as a theme in her stories and this one uses the theme of Little Red Riding Hood with Allegra being Red and Raoul being the wolf. The theme wasn't too overhanded and did add a nice depth to the work especially with the wolf, Raoul, being a much more complicated character than the fairy tale. The author also captured the feeling of family, loneliness and nostalgia that often encompasses Christmas nicely. Pretty much my favorite story of the whole compilation.
The 24 days of Christmas by Linda Lael Miller:
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Rayner and Addie Hutton together when they were children. Frank is now a widower and a 7 yr old daughter Lissandra, and Addie is back at her childhood home after having just suffered a career crushing blow and her ex-husband has just dumped her stepson Henry on her while he's off on his honeymoon. Frank put up the advent calendar to try and bring Addie some joy but it seems to be doing more than it. Could it bring back together two old childhood sweethearts?
I thought that the story was really good. The tone was often somber in places for good reason and the pacing was very calm which overall I thought was a good effect to highlight the happier moments. The characters were also really well done even the not so likable characters were well done although the kids pretty much stole the show. Despite their history and their inner feelings, I did feel though the the romantic part of the story could have used more developing. Other than that overall the story was a good read.
Christmas Angelby Kat Miller:
After the civil war, Savannah had fallen on hard times and is not so happy with the Union soldiers around. Angel Summers then runs into Josh Coltrane, her first love who broke her heart to join the Union Army for a cause. She vowed to hate him but she can't seem to her attraction to him. Josh Coltrane thought that he was able to forget about Angel but seeing her again brought all of those feelings roaring back but with all the hurt, betrayal and distrust between is there any hope for them to ever be together again?
This was probably the first post civil war era story I read and I was pleasantly surprised by it. The characters were good and seemed to be appropriate to the time period. The issues between the main characters and even with the townspeople with the army were dealt with realistically and not just swept under the rug. It was pretty sweet and was a good read.
Overall the whole book was pretty good. Even with my minor issues with one or two stories I would recommend this for any romance lover during the month of December
The Christmas Carousel by Mary Carter:
Georgia Bradley is a single mom and the owner of the Rhode Island auction house The Treasure Chest. Georgia loves the auction house and all the memories surrounding it. However, business hasn't been the best lately and she's finding that she can't afford to fight the developers who want to tear down her place and put up a discount mall. Worse, one of the developers, the handsome Adam Cavalier, is giving Georgia butterflies and a serious case of deja vu. Adam seems to be interested in Georgia as well but with his business poised to destroy Georgia's livelihood and home there's no way she'll ever give him a chance. Then the auction house receives a package that brings back memories from bother Adam and Georgia's past. On a whim they investigate where the package came from and Georgia realizes that Adam is much more than a scrooge.
I thought that story was pretty good. Georgia and Ranger were pretty good characters and I enjoyed reading them. There was some cheese but overall it was rather pleasant. The only thing I had a bit of an issue with was the character of Adam and it was mainly because of a unrealistic portrayal of how he dealt with Georgia. Seriously how did he not manage to have a face to face with her before going out to visit her sister? Other than that the story was good read overall.
A Rose in Winter by Laura Florand:
Allegra Caldrone meets Raoul Rosier in a bar one night when she's trying to fight off the loneliness of the cold windy winter night in Provence. She knows the rules about strangers but with Raoul's amber eyes, the scent of fir surrounding him and the old mixture of danger and safety she gets from him, Allegra throws caution to the wind and invites him back to her little home she leased while she's doing her research. After a wonderful night of passion, Allegra wakes up to see Raoul pocketing a gift she received from Madame Delatour, a 94 yr old woman who is helping Allegra on her research on scents trail and the perfume immigration. Convinced that Raoul is a thief, Allegra thinks she's made the biggest mistake of her life but there things that Allegra doesn't know about Raoul. Raoul knows he messed up but he will do anything for Allegra to forgive and love him again.
I am a fan of Laura Florand's story and I was not disappointed. I thought it was very sweet. The characters were well written and humorous. Mrs. Florand likes to use fairy tales as a theme in her stories and this one uses the theme of Little Red Riding Hood with Allegra being Red and Raoul being the wolf. The theme wasn't too overhanded and did add a nice depth to the work especially with the wolf, Raoul, being a much more complicated character than the fairy tale. The author also captured the feeling of family, loneliness and nostalgia that often encompasses Christmas nicely. Pretty much my favorite story of the whole compilation.
The 24 days of Christmas by Linda Lael Miller:
A matchbox advent calendar first brought Frank Rayner and Addie Hutton together when they were children. Frank is now a widower and a 7 yr old daughter Lissandra, and Addie is back at her childhood home after having just suffered a career crushing blow and her ex-husband has just dumped her stepson Henry on her while he's off on his honeymoon. Frank put up the advent calendar to try and bring Addie some joy but it seems to be doing more than it. Could it bring back together two old childhood sweethearts?
I thought that the story was really good. The tone was often somber in places for good reason and the pacing was very calm which overall I thought was a good effect to highlight the happier moments. The characters were also really well done even the not so likable characters were well done although the kids pretty much stole the show. Despite their history and their inner feelings, I did feel though the the romantic part of the story could have used more developing. Other than that overall the story was a good read.
Christmas Angelby Kat Miller:
After the civil war, Savannah had fallen on hard times and is not so happy with the Union soldiers around. Angel Summers then runs into Josh Coltrane, her first love who broke her heart to join the Union Army for a cause. She vowed to hate him but she can't seem to her attraction to him. Josh Coltrane thought that he was able to forget about Angel but seeing her again brought all of those feelings roaring back but with all the hurt, betrayal and distrust between is there any hope for them to ever be together again?
This was probably the first post civil war era story I read and I was pleasantly surprised by it. The characters were good and seemed to be appropriate to the time period. The issues between the main characters and even with the townspeople with the army were dealt with realistically and not just swept under the rug. It was pretty sweet and was a good read.
Overall the whole book was pretty good. Even with my minor issues with one or two stories I would recommend this for any romance lover during the month of December
Read
November 23, 2020This Anthology has 4 wonderful stories, from Linda Lael Miller, Kat Martin, Mary Carter, and Laura Florand. I can't say I liked any one of the stories better than the others, because I really liked them all. They were all warm, lovely stories of people moving beyond their own pain to find something special together. They are all filled with hope and the joys of overcoming challenges. I really enjoyed them.
July 24, 2017
Rating for Florand's A Rose in Winter only.
July 25, 2017
Can't believe I just spent $5 for only Laura's story, but was it worth it? 100% yes
November 30, 2018
Multiple books, very small print was difficult to read for me.
December 30, 2018
No Place Like Home review
No Place Like Home contains four wonderful Christmas stories written by authors Linda Lael Miller, Kat Martin, Mary Carter and Laura Florand.
No Place Like Home contains four wonderful Christmas stories written by authors Linda Lael Miller, Kat Martin, Mary Carter and Laura Florand.
November 26, 2019
Great Christmas stories
Each story had a great Christmas message! The Christmas miracle romance in each is so heartwarming and pure! I couldn’t put it down!
Each story had a great Christmas message! The Christmas miracle romance in each is so heartwarming and pure! I couldn’t put it down!
December 20, 2020
I just read the Laura Florand novella in here and it was cute.
library
July 30, 20210
Read
September 15, 20212/2/2014
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