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Devilish Debutantes #3.5
Hell's Wedding Bells
WHEN A NIGHTMARE BECOMES A DREAM COME TRUE...
JILTED by one future duke, Lila has no choice but to wed another. She will marry the man, escape from her father's clutches and free her sister as well. Her groom is simply the means to an end, that is, until he becomes so much more.
FORCED to honor his dead brother's debts, Vincent Saint-Pierre, the Duke of Pemberth, travels to Lord Quimbly's estate to shackle himself to the Earl's oldest daughter. Taking a wife is the last thing he wants or needs, and yet, his unlikely bride threatens to capture his heart.
GOODNESS and pleasure sow seeds of affection, but weeds of the past threaten to strangle the newlywed's love. Can Vincent and Lila avoid deadly thorns, or will their love be poisoned before joy can blossom?
Originally published in the 2019 anthology, Once Upon a Christmas Wedding, Hell's Wedding Bells is loosely tied to RITA nominated Book 3, Hell's Belle, of the Devilish Debutante's Series.
JILTED by one future duke, Lila has no choice but to wed another. She will marry the man, escape from her father's clutches and free her sister as well. Her groom is simply the means to an end, that is, until he becomes so much more.
FORCED to honor his dead brother's debts, Vincent Saint-Pierre, the Duke of Pemberth, travels to Lord Quimbly's estate to shackle himself to the Earl's oldest daughter. Taking a wife is the last thing he wants or needs, and yet, his unlikely bride threatens to capture his heart.
GOODNESS and pleasure sow seeds of affection, but weeds of the past threaten to strangle the newlywed's love. Can Vincent and Lila avoid deadly thorns, or will their love be poisoned before joy can blossom?
Originally published in the 2019 anthology, Once Upon a Christmas Wedding, Hell's Wedding Bells is loosely tied to RITA nominated Book 3, Hell's Belle, of the Devilish Debutante's Series.
100 pages, ebook
First published October 13, 2019
257 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Anders
95 books1,336 followersMarried to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.
After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car.
At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.
And then the energy market dropped off.
And then my dog died.
I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.
Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!
To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!
www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...
After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car.
At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.
And then the energy market dropped off.
And then my dog died.
I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.
Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!
To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!
www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 5, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Vincent is a Duke newly minted, he’s fulfilling his duties to pay his brother debts , that means marrying wether he wants to or not.
Lila hates her father , he’s cruel, aggressive and violent.
If she can do anything to escape him , that’s her best option , then she can rescue her sister .
That means when she’s pushed into a hasty marriage she goes.
She has no other option.
Both these to are bound by their predicaments to see the marriage through , within days they are bound by their hearts .
Beautiful, a story of hope and love , with a Darkside that has to be overcome.
Annabelle does this so well , the story ties up all the way through and gives you that sense of achievement and hopefulness , that there is always a silver lining to the darkest cloud.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋💋
Vincent is a Duke newly minted, he’s fulfilling his duties to pay his brother debts , that means marrying wether he wants to or not.
Lila hates her father , he’s cruel, aggressive and violent.
If she can do anything to escape him , that’s her best option , then she can rescue her sister .
That means when she’s pushed into a hasty marriage she goes.
She has no other option.
Both these to are bound by their predicaments to see the marriage through , within days they are bound by their hearts .
Beautiful, a story of hope and love , with a Darkside that has to be overcome.
Annabelle does this so well , the story ties up all the way through and gives you that sense of achievement and hopefulness , that there is always a silver lining to the darkest cloud.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
February 29, 2020
Hell's Wedding Bells: (Novella)
Devilish Debutantes Series #7
Annabelle Anders
https://www.facebook.com/HappyWriting...
Release date 02/29/2020
Blurb :
WHEN A NIGHTMARE BECOMES A DREAM COME TRUE...
JILTED by one future duke, Lila has no choice but to wed another. She will marry the man, escape from her father's clutches and free her sister as well. Her groom is simply the means to an end, that is, until he becomes so much more.
FORCED to honor his dead brother's debts, Vincent Saint-Pierre, the Duke of Pemberth, travels to Lord Quimbly's estate to shackle himself to the Earl's oldest daughter. Taking a wife is the last thing he wants or needs, and yet, his unlikely bride threatens to capture his heart.
GOODNESS and pleasure sow seeds of affection, but weeds of the past threaten to strangle the newlywed's love. Can Vincent and Lila avoid deadly thorns, or will their love be poisoned before joy can blossom?
My review :
What two persons are up to do when at the wrong end of a bargain, willing it to succeed or letting things go...
For short fast-paced tale, it was loaded with a wide range of emotions, sadness, betrayal, deceit but also love and hope.
Lila has never had an easily life with the evil masquerading as her father. She knows his appearance is all for show, behind hides a monster.
Why once she, with no other option, is so adamant to make her marriage a success. And she is confident she can, now she has seen her new husband as the good man he is.
Vincent never wanted to be a duke, it was his older brother’s job. Now he is drowning under his duty, and if it was not enough, he must fulfill a debt of honor.
And his new bride is not what he expected, she is so far and so close of the best incarnation he could have dreamed.
Of course, not everything will go smoothly when treachery and deception are in line.
But Lila and Vincent are straightforward persons, they are able to accept their flaws, they are far from perfect, why they understand the other. Once tempers quiet, they will see both point of views and recognize their mistakes.
In so few pages. Mrs Anders has whip up a delicious narrative of forgiveness and resilience.
As this novella is releasing with a new epilogue, I reread the previous one plus this new one.
And while the new epilogue as an air of nostalgia with the many characters from this series crossing path, I really loved too the first one, it was centered on the main couple and so very romantic.
5 stars for this tale of acceptance and looking for a better outcome.
I was granted an advance copy by the author and here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Devilish Debutantes Series #7
Annabelle Anders
https://www.facebook.com/HappyWriting...
Release date 02/29/2020
Blurb :
WHEN A NIGHTMARE BECOMES A DREAM COME TRUE...
JILTED by one future duke, Lila has no choice but to wed another. She will marry the man, escape from her father's clutches and free her sister as well. Her groom is simply the means to an end, that is, until he becomes so much more.
FORCED to honor his dead brother's debts, Vincent Saint-Pierre, the Duke of Pemberth, travels to Lord Quimbly's estate to shackle himself to the Earl's oldest daughter. Taking a wife is the last thing he wants or needs, and yet, his unlikely bride threatens to capture his heart.
GOODNESS and pleasure sow seeds of affection, but weeds of the past threaten to strangle the newlywed's love. Can Vincent and Lila avoid deadly thorns, or will their love be poisoned before joy can blossom?
My review :
What two persons are up to do when at the wrong end of a bargain, willing it to succeed or letting things go...
For short fast-paced tale, it was loaded with a wide range of emotions, sadness, betrayal, deceit but also love and hope.
Lila has never had an easily life with the evil masquerading as her father. She knows his appearance is all for show, behind hides a monster.
Why once she, with no other option, is so adamant to make her marriage a success. And she is confident she can, now she has seen her new husband as the good man he is.
Vincent never wanted to be a duke, it was his older brother’s job. Now he is drowning under his duty, and if it was not enough, he must fulfill a debt of honor.
And his new bride is not what he expected, she is so far and so close of the best incarnation he could have dreamed.
Of course, not everything will go smoothly when treachery and deception are in line.
But Lila and Vincent are straightforward persons, they are able to accept their flaws, they are far from perfect, why they understand the other. Once tempers quiet, they will see both point of views and recognize their mistakes.
In so few pages. Mrs Anders has whip up a delicious narrative of forgiveness and resilience.
As this novella is releasing with a new epilogue, I reread the previous one plus this new one.
And while the new epilogue as an air of nostalgia with the many characters from this series crossing path, I really loved too the first one, it was centered on the main couple and so very romantic.
5 stars for this tale of acceptance and looking for a better outcome.
I was granted an advance copy by the author and here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
March 14, 2020
After being jilted by the man she was betrothed to for most of her life, Lady Lila is forced by her father, the Earl of Quimbly, into a hasty marriage with another. Though terrified of the uncertain future, Lila sees the opportunity to escape her cruel father and perhaps enable herself to rescue her younger sister as well. It's a good plan until her new husband quickly becomes much more than a mere means to an end.
Vincent Saint-Pierre, the new Duke of Pembreth, is still reeling from his elder brother's death and unhappy with his need to honor the debts he left behind. Unwillingly, he ventures to the home of the Earl of Quimbly and marries his eldest daughter. Soon the wife he didn't want proves to be everything he needs, but just as affection begins to grow between them, truths emerging from the past threaten their burgeoning happiness.
This was a quick read that I missed in the original anthology and I really enjoyed it. Lila and Vincent grew together in the loveliest way and the fast pace and bit of drama really held my attention.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Vincent Saint-Pierre, the new Duke of Pembreth, is still reeling from his elder brother's death and unhappy with his need to honor the debts he left behind. Unwillingly, he ventures to the home of the Earl of Quimbly and marries his eldest daughter. Soon the wife he didn't want proves to be everything he needs, but just as affection begins to grow between them, truths emerging from the past threaten their burgeoning happiness.
This was a quick read that I missed in the original anthology and I really enjoyed it. Lila and Vincent grew together in the loveliest way and the fast pace and bit of drama really held my attention.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
October 28, 2022
Very enjoyable story of Vincent Saint-Pierre, the new Duke of Pemberth who's forced to comply with his deceased brother's contract of marriage to Lady Lila Breton. Lila is pleased to be leaving her father's home, but not sure if things will improve since she knows nothing of her new groom. Loved watching these two get to know each other and eventually work together to right the wrongs that Lila's father has done. This is the end of a series, with an epilogue to tie the series together, but can be read as a standalone.
February 29, 2020
Hell’s Wedding Bells is a standalone novella within the Devilish Debutantes series. You do not need to have read the rest of the series to understand this one, but it will leave you curious. I’ve only read book one in the series and understood this one perfectly fine. However, it has increased my need – which was already high – to read the rest of the series.
As always with Annabelle Anders, we have a story with so much packed into it. I have a complicated relationship when it comes to short stories and novella, but I always trust Annabelle Anders to deliver a story that will have me hooked. Such is what happened here.
I was sucked into Hell’s Wedding Bells from the very first page. I instantly fell in love with our characters and devoured their story in a single sitting. There was so much packed into this, ensuring the story delivered plenty of emotional punches.
If you’re a fan of historical romance, I highly recommend this one.
As always with Annabelle Anders, we have a story with so much packed into it. I have a complicated relationship when it comes to short stories and novella, but I always trust Annabelle Anders to deliver a story that will have me hooked. Such is what happened here.
I was sucked into Hell’s Wedding Bells from the very first page. I instantly fell in love with our characters and devoured their story in a single sitting. There was so much packed into this, ensuring the story delivered plenty of emotional punches.
If you’re a fan of historical romance, I highly recommend this one.
March 17, 2021
Tags: forced marriage
TW: suicide
Short story about a forced marriage by an evil father and a couple that makes the best of a bad situation. Liked the chemistry between the pair.
TW: suicide
Short story about a forced marriage by an evil father and a couple that makes the best of a bad situation. Liked the chemistry between the pair.
March 8, 2020
STRANGERS TO SOUL MATES!!
Hell's Wedding Bells was cute story. I really enjoyed it.
Vincent Saint-Pierre Duke of Pemberth is marring the eldest daughter of the Earl of Quimbly Lila. Sight unseen by both parties Vincent and Lila marry. Lila is just hoping to get away from her cruel father and praying that the Duke will be a kind and gentle husband one. Lila wants to bring her younger sister to live with her and the Duke to get her away from there father.
Vincent's is honoring a debt by marring this 26 year old spinster. The debt belongs to his deceased brother. Never did he expect to fall in love and have a passionate loving wife.
I like the way Vincent and Lila get along. It was a bit of a surprise to find out how depraved and evil her father really was.
My only problem with the story is personal. I am sick of reading about old spinster who are not just on the shelf but should be locked in the closet in this era 26 is very old to be getting married.
Hell's Wedding Bells was cute story. I really enjoyed it.
Vincent Saint-Pierre Duke of Pemberth is marring the eldest daughter of the Earl of Quimbly Lila. Sight unseen by both parties Vincent and Lila marry. Lila is just hoping to get away from her cruel father and praying that the Duke will be a kind and gentle husband one. Lila wants to bring her younger sister to live with her and the Duke to get her away from there father.
Vincent's is honoring a debt by marring this 26 year old spinster. The debt belongs to his deceased brother. Never did he expect to fall in love and have a passionate loving wife.
I like the way Vincent and Lila get along. It was a bit of a surprise to find out how depraved and evil her father really was.
My only problem with the story is personal. I am sick of reading about old spinster who are not just on the shelf but should be locked in the closet in this era 26 is very old to be getting married.
March 2, 2020
This is the story of Lila and Vincent and how they are coerced into marrying by her wicked father. Neither are very happy about it but both are determined to make it work and it doesn't hurt that there's instant mutual attraction:) Soon their hearts are connected and they work together to save the Dukedom from going to ruins. There are many twists and turns to this story, some which made me gasp. It truly is a story of love and hope and how anything is possible if you really wish it.
I loved this story and definitely recommend it! The newly added epilogue was wonderful as well!! I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved this story and definitely recommend it! The newly added epilogue was wonderful as well!! I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 27, 2020
Lady Lila Breton is the eldest daughter of the atrocious Earl of Quimbly. (If you read Hell’s Belle you may remember her as the former fiancé of the Earl of Blakely and that her father was up to no good. But this is a stand alone book.) Because of the broken betrothal she is viewed as ruined and so the earl schemes to marry her to an unknown duke. Her main concern is protecting her mother and sister from her father. She hopes that whoever she is to marry he turns out to be a good man who will help her in this endeavor.
Hard working Vincent Saint-Pierre is now the Duke of Pemberth since his brother has died. The “Norse god like” duke seems to be left with a ton of debt, a dilapidated residence, and a sight unseen fiancé. Upon meeting each other they marry immediately and leave for his far NE England home.
Even though she comes from privilege, Lila has had a rough life in regards to having to deal with her father. She needed Vincent to take her away and give her the happiness she deserved. He needed her to help with his life now that he’s had to become the duke. It is refreshing to see how their relationship grows and how they deal with the treachery and problems that arise.
This is another great holiday book from Annabelle Anders that can be read in one evening. I enjoyed the addition of the new epilogue in this version. I was given an ARC of Hell’s Wedding Bells and chose to leave my review.
Merged review:
Lady Lila Breton is the eldest daughter of the atrocious Earl of Quimbly. (If you read Hell’s Belle you may remember her as the former fiancé of the Earl of Blakely and that her father was up to no good. But this is a stand alone book.) Because of the broken betrothal she is viewed as ruined and so the earl schemes to marry her to an unknown duke. Her main concern is protecting her mother and sister from her father. She hopes that whoever she is to marry he turns out to be a good man who will help her in this endeavor.
Hard working Vincent Saint-Pierre is now the Duke of Pemberth since his brother has died. The “Norse god like” duke seems to be left with a ton of debt, a dilapidated residence, and a sight unseen fiancé. Upon meeting each other they marry immediately and leave for his far NE England home.
Even though she comes from privilege, Lila has had a rough life in regards to having to deal with her father. She needed Vincent to take her away and give her the happiness she deserved. He needed her to help with his life now that he’s had to become the duke. It is refreshing to see how their relationship grows and how they deal with the treachery and problems that arise.
This is another great holiday book from Annabelle Anders that can be read in one evening. I enjoyed the addition of the epilogue in this version. I was given an ARC of Hell’s Wedding Bells and chose to leave my review.
Hard working Vincent Saint-Pierre is now the Duke of Pemberth since his brother has died. The “Norse god like” duke seems to be left with a ton of debt, a dilapidated residence, and a sight unseen fiancé. Upon meeting each other they marry immediately and leave for his far NE England home.
Even though she comes from privilege, Lila has had a rough life in regards to having to deal with her father. She needed Vincent to take her away and give her the happiness she deserved. He needed her to help with his life now that he’s had to become the duke. It is refreshing to see how their relationship grows and how they deal with the treachery and problems that arise.
This is another great holiday book from Annabelle Anders that can be read in one evening. I enjoyed the addition of the new epilogue in this version. I was given an ARC of Hell’s Wedding Bells and chose to leave my review.
Merged review:
Lady Lila Breton is the eldest daughter of the atrocious Earl of Quimbly. (If you read Hell’s Belle you may remember her as the former fiancé of the Earl of Blakely and that her father was up to no good. But this is a stand alone book.) Because of the broken betrothal she is viewed as ruined and so the earl schemes to marry her to an unknown duke. Her main concern is protecting her mother and sister from her father. She hopes that whoever she is to marry he turns out to be a good man who will help her in this endeavor.
Hard working Vincent Saint-Pierre is now the Duke of Pemberth since his brother has died. The “Norse god like” duke seems to be left with a ton of debt, a dilapidated residence, and a sight unseen fiancé. Upon meeting each other they marry immediately and leave for his far NE England home.
Even though she comes from privilege, Lila has had a rough life in regards to having to deal with her father. She needed Vincent to take her away and give her the happiness she deserved. He needed her to help with his life now that he’s had to become the duke. It is refreshing to see how their relationship grows and how they deal with the treachery and problems that arise.
This is another great holiday book from Annabelle Anders that can be read in one evening. I enjoyed the addition of the epilogue in this version. I was given an ARC of Hell’s Wedding Bells and chose to leave my review.
February 29, 2020
A very entertaining read. Lady Lila was forced to marry Vincent Saint-Pierre, Duke of Pemberth, sight unseen. Lila cared for her sister and tried to protect her from their ruthless father. Lila was surprised that the duke was a handsome man. Likewise, Pemberth was surprised how beautiful Lila was and wondered why she hadn’t been married before. I enjoyed the way Lila and Vincent gradually got to know each other, they shared some very passionate moments too. Vincent is very much a hands-on landlord and likes to work with his tenants in the fields. Lila helps in ways that she has expertise and so they make a good team. There are a few secrets to uncover and unexpected events. This story moves along at a good pace and the epilogue rounds off the story nicely. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 1, 2021
Exciting short story. Very intense. Loved it! 5☆
March 4, 2020
Annabelle Anders does an amazing job of writing heroines. In this case Lila is forced to marry a Duke that she never met before the actual ceremony. Worse, the Duke is only marrying her to pay off a debt that his brother incurred. His estate is in debt but luckily, of all the women he could have been forced to marry, Lila actually has a mind for paperwork and sets about to look over all the accounts.
Even though they are strangers, they quickly come to see that the other is worthy of love and it is a Happily Ever After that everyone will be happy with.
Even though they are strangers, they quickly come to see that the other is worthy of love and it is a Happily Ever After that everyone will be happy with.
November 11, 2020
Hell's Wedding Bells
Devilish Debutantes, Book 3.5
Annabelle Anders, author
I always enjoy a story by Lady Anders. Falling in between two amazingly told stories, this is no different, other than, of course, being a novella. There is drama, subterfuge, and love in this story, but wait! The ending will crack you up! This story brings Lady Lila Catherine Breton to a place of peace, safety, happiness and love in her life. Not to mention one of belonging and purpose, as she'd been previously betrothed to Lord Marcus Roberts, Earl of Blakely. Being jilted by him only brought her despair and pain, only not the despair and pain one would think of.
Lord Quimbly has made a deal with Lord Vincent Sebastian Lucifer Saint-Pierre, Duke of Pemberth to marry Lila. Leaving behind her mother and younger sister, Arianna, was hard for Lila. She feared for her sister's safety, as she was not there to protect her and take the brunt of their father's brutality and fury. But leave to become the Duchess of Pemberth, she must. In lies, the story of how two lost souls begin to take a leap of faith and trust one another. Yes, two, as Lord Pemberth has his own tragedy and loss to overcome. While learning to love and trust each other, Lady Lila begins to unravel the truth behind Lord Pemberth's loss. What Lady Lila discovers, will it bring peace to Lord Pemberth, as well as, the ability to understand his own loss?
The epilogue brings about a most joyous ending to this story. One that will no doubt ensue a second generation of wallflowers. And Emily Roberts, Duchess of Waters is at it again! Duchess, not Countess??? My oh my, the antics she is up to.... Lady Lila will definitely learn a lot.... I am so in love with Lady Anders's stories. They simply leave the reader feeling giddy with all the feel goods. You did it again Annabelle! Great job! Need I say more???
I was given an ARC copy of this story in exchange for my most humble opinion. I do so voluntarily.
Merged review:
Hell's Wedding Bells
Devilish Debutantes, Book 3.5
Annabelle Anders, author
I always enjoy a story by Lady Anders. Falling in between two amazingly told stories, this is no different, other than, of course, being a novella. There is drama, subterfuge, and love in this story, but wait! The ending will crack you up! This story brings Lady Lila Catherine Breton to a place of peace, safety, happiness and love in her life. Not to mention one of belonging and purpose, as she'd been previously betrothed to Lord Marcus Roberts, Earl of Blakely. Being jilted by him only brought her despair and pain, only not the despair and pain one would think of.
Lord Quimbly has made a deal with Lord Vincent Sebastian Lucifer Saint-Pierre, Duke of Pemberth to marry Lila. Leaving behind her mother and younger sister, Arianna, was hard for Lila. She feared for her sister's safety, as she was not there to protect her and take the brunt of their father's brutality and fury. But leave to become the Duchess of Pemberth, she must. In lies, the story of how two lost souls begin to take a leap of faith and trust one another. Yes, two, as Lord Pemberth has his own tragedy and loss to overcome. While learning to love and trust each other, Lady Lila begins to unravel the truth behind Lord Pemberth's loss. What Lady Lila discovers, will it bring peace to Lord Pemberth, as well as, the ability to understand his own loss?
The epilogue brings about a most joyous ending to this story. One that will no doubt ensue a second generation of wallflowers. And Emily Roberts, Duchess of Waters is at it again! Duchess, not Countess??? My oh my, the antics she is up to.... Lady Lila will definitely learn a lot.... I am so in love with Lady Anders's stories. They simply leave the reader feeling giddy with all the feel goods. You did it again Annabelle! Great job! Need I say more???
I was given an ARC copy of this story in exchange for my most humble opinion. I do so voluntarily.
Devilish Debutantes, Book 3.5
Annabelle Anders, author
I always enjoy a story by Lady Anders. Falling in between two amazingly told stories, this is no different, other than, of course, being a novella. There is drama, subterfuge, and love in this story, but wait! The ending will crack you up! This story brings Lady Lila Catherine Breton to a place of peace, safety, happiness and love in her life. Not to mention one of belonging and purpose, as she'd been previously betrothed to Lord Marcus Roberts, Earl of Blakely. Being jilted by him only brought her despair and pain, only not the despair and pain one would think of.
Lord Quimbly has made a deal with Lord Vincent Sebastian Lucifer Saint-Pierre, Duke of Pemberth to marry Lila. Leaving behind her mother and younger sister, Arianna, was hard for Lila. She feared for her sister's safety, as she was not there to protect her and take the brunt of their father's brutality and fury. But leave to become the Duchess of Pemberth, she must. In lies, the story of how two lost souls begin to take a leap of faith and trust one another. Yes, two, as Lord Pemberth has his own tragedy and loss to overcome. While learning to love and trust each other, Lady Lila begins to unravel the truth behind Lord Pemberth's loss. What Lady Lila discovers, will it bring peace to Lord Pemberth, as well as, the ability to understand his own loss?
The epilogue brings about a most joyous ending to this story. One that will no doubt ensue a second generation of wallflowers. And Emily Roberts, Duchess of Waters is at it again! Duchess, not Countess??? My oh my, the antics she is up to.... Lady Lila will definitely learn a lot.... I am so in love with Lady Anders's stories. They simply leave the reader feeling giddy with all the feel goods. You did it again Annabelle! Great job! Need I say more???
I was given an ARC copy of this story in exchange for my most humble opinion. I do so voluntarily.
Merged review:
Hell's Wedding Bells
Devilish Debutantes, Book 3.5
Annabelle Anders, author
I always enjoy a story by Lady Anders. Falling in between two amazingly told stories, this is no different, other than, of course, being a novella. There is drama, subterfuge, and love in this story, but wait! The ending will crack you up! This story brings Lady Lila Catherine Breton to a place of peace, safety, happiness and love in her life. Not to mention one of belonging and purpose, as she'd been previously betrothed to Lord Marcus Roberts, Earl of Blakely. Being jilted by him only brought her despair and pain, only not the despair and pain one would think of.
Lord Quimbly has made a deal with Lord Vincent Sebastian Lucifer Saint-Pierre, Duke of Pemberth to marry Lila. Leaving behind her mother and younger sister, Arianna, was hard for Lila. She feared for her sister's safety, as she was not there to protect her and take the brunt of their father's brutality and fury. But leave to become the Duchess of Pemberth, she must. In lies, the story of how two lost souls begin to take a leap of faith and trust one another. Yes, two, as Lord Pemberth has his own tragedy and loss to overcome. While learning to love and trust each other, Lady Lila begins to unravel the truth behind Lord Pemberth's loss. What Lady Lila discovers, will it bring peace to Lord Pemberth, as well as, the ability to understand his own loss?
The epilogue brings about a most joyous ending to this story. One that will no doubt ensue a second generation of wallflowers. And Emily Roberts, Duchess of Waters is at it again! Duchess, not Countess??? My oh my, the antics she is up to.... Lady Lila will definitely learn a lot.... I am so in love with Lady Anders's stories. They simply leave the reader feeling giddy with all the feel goods. You did it again Annabelle! Great job! Need I say more???
I was given an ARC copy of this story in exchange for my most humble opinion. I do so voluntarily.
March 1, 2020
4.5 Stars
Lady Lila Breton is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Quimbly, her former fiancé the Earl of Blakely featured in Hell's Belle. When the engagement was broken Quimbly moved his family to the far NW of England. The story opens on Lila's wedding day to a duke she's never met. Hard working Vincent Saint-Pierre is now the Duke of Pemberth since his brother whom he adored died three months earlier leaving him with a seemingly bankrupt duchy. A well written engrossing novella that I devoured in a couple of hours, Vincent & Lila make the most of a bad bargain & as they get to know each other learn to trust & to work together. It isn’t a jovial short story but it shows there's hope even in the most trying of situations, I first read this lovely novella in the anthology Once Upon a Christmas Wedding but it has been enhanced with a lovely epilogue which certainly rounds off this engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lady Lila Breton is the eldest daughter of the Earl of Quimbly, her former fiancé the Earl of Blakely featured in Hell's Belle. When the engagement was broken Quimbly moved his family to the far NW of England. The story opens on Lila's wedding day to a duke she's never met. Hard working Vincent Saint-Pierre is now the Duke of Pemberth since his brother whom he adored died three months earlier leaving him with a seemingly bankrupt duchy. A well written engrossing novella that I devoured in a couple of hours, Vincent & Lila make the most of a bad bargain & as they get to know each other learn to trust & to work together. It isn’t a jovial short story but it shows there's hope even in the most trying of situations, I first read this lovely novella in the anthology Once Upon a Christmas Wedding but it has been enhanced with a lovely epilogue which certainly rounds off this engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 3, 2020
Hell’s Wedding Bells by Annabelle Anders
I adored this story. I especially liked the heroine, Lady Lila Breton. She overcomes an abusive situation and makes the best of situations thrust upon her. I thought her determination to win her husband over was admirable and very wise. Vincent is at first a mystery - silent and brooding. “He was huge. Not just tall and certainly not fat. He was just..huge. Thick blond hair curled atop his head, hanging practically into his eyes and onto his neck. He looked as though he hadn’t been shaved in a week. He looked like no duke Lila had ever known. And yet, there was no mistaking his noble birth. It clung to him, despite his worn clothing and rough exterior. Something in the cool blue of his eyes and his chiseled features.” I thought that this story was very well thought out with twists and turns that I just didn’t see coming.
I adored this story. I especially liked the heroine, Lady Lila Breton. She overcomes an abusive situation and makes the best of situations thrust upon her. I thought her determination to win her husband over was admirable and very wise. Vincent is at first a mystery - silent and brooding. “He was huge. Not just tall and certainly not fat. He was just..huge. Thick blond hair curled atop his head, hanging practically into his eyes and onto his neck. He looked as though he hadn’t been shaved in a week. He looked like no duke Lila had ever known. And yet, there was no mistaking his noble birth. It clung to him, despite his worn clothing and rough exterior. Something in the cool blue of his eyes and his chiseled features.” I thought that this story was very well thought out with twists and turns that I just didn’t see coming.
May 20, 2021
***Before I get to the review, I'd like to give the readers a head's up that you will find this book as the first book of an anthology called "Once Upon a Christmas Wedding by Scarlett Scott". If you find it there first, it will throw you off when you see it here afterward because the anthology doesn't warn you that this book comes in the middle of a series. If you read the anthology first, it will cause a bit of confusion until you read the first three books of the series, which explains a LOT about what occurs in this book...and why.***
From the previous book, the reader learned all manner of things about Lila's horrible father like how devious the man was. Neither Lila's mother, her sister nor Lila herself was introduced fully until this book. I only a few quibbles with the characters was that first and for most of the book, Lila's sister was called Arianna, but at the end, her name was Adrianna. Another is that, at one point, Lila's former betrothed, Marcus, was repeatedly called Marcus Richards, but in the previous book he was called Marcus Roberts. Odd, that, eh? There were few characters in this book though, most rarely mentioned. It was, unusually, about the two main characters.
While there was angst and a tad bit of hostility between the two main characters at first, the chemistry and passion slowly built up. There was more drama and intrigue than anything, but the romance was in evidence.
Oh but the pain of harsh words spoken in anger. They do cause the heart to break, don't they? There were many harsh words spoken in this book, and they produced great fear, heartache, and the desire for forgiveness when the realization of wronging another person becomes apparent. There were some wonderfully unusual twists and turns at the end that most readers might find intriguing and unexpected.
This book definitely earned the Keeper for the Shelves award.
From the previous book, the reader learned all manner of things about Lila's horrible father like how devious the man was. Neither Lila's mother, her sister nor Lila herself was introduced fully until this book. I only a few quibbles with the characters was that first and for most of the book, Lila's sister was called Arianna, but at the end, her name was Adrianna. Another is that, at one point, Lila's former betrothed, Marcus, was repeatedly called Marcus Richards, but in the previous book he was called Marcus Roberts. Odd, that, eh? There were few characters in this book though, most rarely mentioned. It was, unusually, about the two main characters.
While there was angst and a tad bit of hostility between the two main characters at first, the chemistry and passion slowly built up. There was more drama and intrigue than anything, but the romance was in evidence.
Oh but the pain of harsh words spoken in anger. They do cause the heart to break, don't they? There were many harsh words spoken in this book, and they produced great fear, heartache, and the desire for forgiveness when the realization of wronging another person becomes apparent. There were some wonderfully unusual twists and turns at the end that most readers might find intriguing and unexpected.
This book definitely earned the Keeper for the Shelves award.
March 14, 2020
Lila is a very sheltered women who had a tyrant for a father. His only goal in life was to have a daughter marry a duke and he would use any ways to make that happen. Lila was engaged to a duke and he called it off to marry someone else so her father found another duke for her to marry.
Vincent never wanted to be a duke but the death of his brother brought obligations to him that he had to honor and one was the marriage to Lila. Lila saw the marriage as a way to get her and her sister away from their father. Along down the road the two came to get to know each other and fall in love until a secret that Lila found out almost destroyed their happily ever after.
I loved the ending where a young women who never had any friends was welcomed into a group of friends. It was a great HEA. I would love to read a story about Lila's sister Arianne
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
Vincent never wanted to be a duke but the death of his brother brought obligations to him that he had to honor and one was the marriage to Lila. Lila saw the marriage as a way to get her and her sister away from their father. Along down the road the two came to get to know each other and fall in love until a secret that Lila found out almost destroyed their happily ever after.
I loved the ending where a young women who never had any friends was welcomed into a group of friends. It was a great HEA. I would love to read a story about Lila's sister Arianne
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
February 29, 2020
I am usually not a big fan of novellas but Hell's Wedding Bells was a delightful addition to the Devilish Debutantes Series. Vincent and Lila were thrown together by circumstance, he to pay a family debt and she to obey a overbearing father. A steamy romance that starts out shaky becomes a great adventure of mystery, discovery and everlasting love.
This book could be read as a standalone but Annabelle Anders found a way to bring in characters from the other Devilish Debutantes books to really add a new dimension to the whole series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy provided by the author.
This book could be read as a standalone but Annabelle Anders found a way to bring in characters from the other Devilish Debutantes books to really add a new dimension to the whole series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy provided by the author.
March 1, 2020
Hell’s Wedding Bells:
Loved this story, it was a little different and didn’t read like a short story. Lila finds herself being bartered off into marriage because of a lost bet by her atrocious father, there is a twist in that story and Vincent is the groom Lila has never met and they are wed within minutes of being introduced to each other. Lila takes a chance on Vincent and while not a talkative man, he is a good man. Five star read!
Loved this story, it was a little different and didn’t read like a short story. Lila finds herself being bartered off into marriage because of a lost bet by her atrocious father, there is a twist in that story and Vincent is the groom Lila has never met and they are wed within minutes of being introduced to each other. Lila takes a chance on Vincent and while not a talkative man, he is a good man. Five star read!
June 19, 2021
Excellent Series
I have never enjoyed a series of books more! I no sooner finished one book than I was ordering the next and was oh so sad when I reached the conclusion of the series. What made each book so mesmerizing is the way the author weaves each love story. You can't help but feel everything that the lovers feel. And running through the story line is the friendship of the "Wall flowers". These are truly the kind of books that make one feel good. 😍
I have never enjoyed a series of books more! I no sooner finished one book than I was ordering the next and was oh so sad when I reached the conclusion of the series. What made each book so mesmerizing is the way the author weaves each love story. You can't help but feel everything that the lovers feel. And running through the story line is the friendship of the "Wall flowers". These are truly the kind of books that make one feel good. 😍
March 4, 2020
Love love! This book will have you glued to the pages until the end! It had all the feels! Well written and characters enjoyable and realistic. I had a hard time putting it down once I started, I needed to finish in one sitting!
I totally recommended this book and others in the series! Annabelle Anders has a way with words and scenes that you will become losing within the pages!
I totally recommended this book and others in the series! Annabelle Anders has a way with words and scenes that you will become losing within the pages!
August 25, 2024
short & sweet
An interesting plot with underlying nefarious goings on. A wicked bully of a father & husband, whose family know he has killed, forces his daughter into marriage with a duke allegedly in his debt.
As the husband and wife get closer, she helps with all the neglected administration, then things begin to unravel.
Recommended
An interesting plot with underlying nefarious goings on. A wicked bully of a father & husband, whose family know he has killed, forces his daughter into marriage with a duke allegedly in his debt.
As the husband and wife get closer, she helps with all the neglected administration, then things begin to unravel.
Recommended
March 1, 2020
Get this book.
You will not be sorry! This is a great short tale by a wonderful author. I can honestly say I haven't read a book that hasn't been excellent! Pulls you right in funny, sexy and downright entertaining!
You will not be sorry! This is a great short tale by a wonderful author. I can honestly say I haven't read a book that hasn't been excellent! Pulls you right in funny, sexy and downright entertaining!
March 2, 2020
Saved by the wedding bells
Lila has been bartered away by her father, who is determined to have a duchess for a daughter. Vincent is marrying for honor, not love. Can they make each other happy in the end? Witty and charming, with loveable characters. Always love an HEA!
Lila has been bartered away by her father, who is determined to have a duchess for a daughter. Vincent is marrying for honor, not love. Can they make each other happy in the end? Witty and charming, with loveable characters. Always love an HEA!
September 1, 2020
❤
This is the second time I have read this particular book .Annabelle Anders does a wonderful job in bringing her characters to life.
Great story ,wonderful story line
And the passion between two strangers, that turns into so much
More. Thank you ❤
This is the second time I have read this particular book .Annabelle Anders does a wonderful job in bringing her characters to life.
Great story ,wonderful story line
And the passion between two strangers, that turns into so much
More. Thank you ❤
October 14, 2020
Heady
This series was aptly named, hellish living with a father so gruff, Lila is smart as a ship but what she uncovers.... I love the sweetness of Vincent and the strength and naivete of Lila made such a strong tale.
This series was aptly named, hellish living with a father so gruff, Lila is smart as a ship but what she uncovers.... I love the sweetness of Vincent and the strength and naivete of Lila made such a strong tale.
December 14, 2020
I loved how Lila and Vincent came together to make the best of a marriage that neither of them initially wanted. There is sweetness, tension, intrigue, and a dash of sorrow. There were some questions unanswered at the end, but they weren't enough to spoil my enjoyment.
November 29, 2022
Incredible book!
Please tell me that we will have more amazing adventures regarding this fantastic group of friends and their sisters!!! Loved the book! So glad that Lila had her well deserved happy ending and a deserving end to her villainous father.
Please tell me that we will have more amazing adventures regarding this fantastic group of friends and their sisters!!! Loved the book! So glad that Lila had her well deserved happy ending and a deserving end to her villainous father.
March 3, 2020
Meant to be
This is a cute, at times humorous book. What do you do when you are being forced to a marry you don't want? Anything you can to alienate the groom
This is a cute, at times humorous book. What do you do when you are being forced to a marry you don't want? Anything you can to alienate the groom
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