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Snow-Kissed Proposals: A Christmas Historical Romance Novel
A snowy Victorian Christmas
Two festive short stories!
In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher, willful, independent heiress Fiona MacKay impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower, where she’s trapped in the snow with equally headstrong, deliciously disheveled Angus Drummond.
In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were cruelly parted fifteen years ago, and each blames the other. When Amy becomes Anthony’s new housekeeper, their passion is reawakened!
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
Two festive short stories!
In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher, willful, independent heiress Fiona MacKay impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower, where she’s trapped in the snow with equally headstrong, deliciously disheveled Angus Drummond.
In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were cruelly parted fifteen years ago, and each blames the other. When Amy becomes Anthony’s new housekeeper, their passion is reawakened!
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 30, 2021
4 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Jenni Fletcher
88 books176 followersJenni Fletcher writes heartwarming Historical Romance and fun Formula 1 romances. She has won 2 Romantic Novelists' Association Awards and teaches creative writing at Bishop Grosseteste University. Originally from Scotland, she now lives in the north of England with her family and one extremely hairy dog.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 3, 2021
Snow-Kissed Proposals consists of two independent novellas written by two different and excellent historical authors.
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes are two engaging stories, I wished they were longer to keep enjoying reading them.
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher:
Fiona ran away from her house in Edimburgh to go and spend some days at her friend Mhairi's home in the Northern Aberdeenshire to try to keep his father from marry again. Here she meets Angus, her friend's brother, who is committed to restore the name of his family and to make the old distillery work again.
They have nothing in common, Fiona is fashionable and she loves the town, Angus is rugged and scruffy and he loves to live in the countryside, but they appear more and more perfect together at every bantering and quarrel.
It was really entarteining to see these two getting closer. I particularly liked how they point out to each other their mistakes and they are capable to reconsider their ideas and behaviours.
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes:
Anthony inherited his aunt's house, where he spent some time when he was younger, but his life is in town so he hires through his solicitor a housekeeper. When he goes to the house to check the books in person, he finds out that his housekeeper is Amy, the beautiful woman who broke his heart 15 years ago.
I loved to read how once the shock wore off to see each other after so many years Anthony and Amy find a way to sort out their past and they easily rediscover their love. They were perfect soulmates and the time spent separated didn't have change that.
I recommend these two stories that will happily end at Christmas time.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
November 29, 2021
Two novellas full of romance and Christmas cheer!
This lovely anthology contains two snow-filled novellas: The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and Their Snowbound Reunion by Elizabeth Hobbes.
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher
Fiona, the heroine, was funny, loyal, strong-minded, but very sensible.
I love a grumpy hero, extra points if the said hero is a disheveled hardworking Scot with auburn curls and pale eyes! I fell for Angus on the spot!
He was a bit stubborn at first but willing to listen to reason and make up for his mistakes.
The story was very romantic, heartwarming, and throughout pleasing!
Highly recommended!
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elizabeth Hobbes
Their Snowbound Reunion is a lovely second-chance novella with two sweet children and the rekindling of love thought long lost.
I enjoyed that, despite their heartbreak, both Anthony and Amy lived fulfilled lives while apart, and when reunited, they brought all their new life experiences to the relationship.
Lovely slow-burn romance!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *
This lovely anthology contains two snow-filled novellas: The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and Their Snowbound Reunion by Elizabeth Hobbes.
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher
Fiona, the heroine, was funny, loyal, strong-minded, but very sensible.
I love a grumpy hero, extra points if the said hero is a disheveled hardworking Scot with auburn curls and pale eyes! I fell for Angus on the spot!
He was a bit stubborn at first but willing to listen to reason and make up for his mistakes.
The story was very romantic, heartwarming, and throughout pleasing!
Highly recommended!
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elizabeth Hobbes
Their Snowbound Reunion is a lovely second-chance novella with two sweet children and the rekindling of love thought long lost.
I enjoyed that, despite their heartbreak, both Anthony and Amy lived fulfilled lives while apart, and when reunited, they brought all their new life experiences to the relationship.
Lovely slow-burn romance!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com *
November 22, 2021
❄️ Snow-Kissed Proposals ❄️
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher
https://www.facebook.com/JenniFletche...
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes
https://www.facebook.com/ElisabethHob...
Release Date 11/25/2021-12/07/2021
Publisher Mills&Boon Historical / Harlequin Historical
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096TBCX9G/...
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096Y3FGSL/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A snowy Victorian Christmas
Two festive short stories!
In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher: wilful, independent heiress, Fiona MacKay, impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower where she’s trapped in the snow with equally headstrong, deliciously dishevelled Angus Drummond.
In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes: fifteen years ago, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were cruelly parted, and each blames the other. When Amy becomes Anthony’s new housekeeper, their passion is reawakened!
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will the cheerful atmosphere of the end of the year bring warmth to those hearts…
This cheerful bundle of two novellas is the perfect read to put you in the right mood, so snuggle under a blanket with a warm drink and get cozy for a few hours of pleasing leisure.
Mrs Fletcher tale is a kind of enemies to lovers tale, Fiona and Angus began on the wrong foot, both are very stubborn being, and while they have others well-being at heart but they also have a streak of selfishness, thus they do not receive well criticizing, yet they are mature enough to rehearse what had been said and accept the wrongness of their own doings.
As they acknowledge the errors of their way, feelings deepen.
A sweet tale with some funny moments of deciding what is worth fighting for, choosing love over pride or the contrary.
5 stars
Mrs Hobbes is a second chance romance offered to thwarted lovers on the eve of Christmas. Amy and Anthony never said goodbye, what could have been never came to fruition and both believe they were not enough for the other. They buried their broken heart and life went on, until fifteen years late, their older widowed selves meet again. Can old sentiments and past pain cohabit and is forgiveness possible to many time after.
A lovely tale of star-crossed lovers reunited with a strong heroine and a beta hero who left their first chance pass by for fear of rejection.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWlGFWDI...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher
https://www.facebook.com/JenniFletche...
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes
https://www.facebook.com/ElisabethHob...
Release Date 11/25/2021-12/07/2021
Publisher Mills&Boon Historical / Harlequin Historical
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096TBCX9G/...
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B096Y3FGSL/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A snowy Victorian Christmas
Two festive short stories!
In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher: wilful, independent heiress, Fiona MacKay, impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower where she’s trapped in the snow with equally headstrong, deliciously dishevelled Angus Drummond.
In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes: fifteen years ago, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were cruelly parted, and each blames the other. When Amy becomes Anthony’s new housekeeper, their passion is reawakened!
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will the cheerful atmosphere of the end of the year bring warmth to those hearts…
This cheerful bundle of two novellas is the perfect read to put you in the right mood, so snuggle under a blanket with a warm drink and get cozy for a few hours of pleasing leisure.
Mrs Fletcher tale is a kind of enemies to lovers tale, Fiona and Angus began on the wrong foot, both are very stubborn being, and while they have others well-being at heart but they also have a streak of selfishness, thus they do not receive well criticizing, yet they are mature enough to rehearse what had been said and accept the wrongness of their own doings.
As they acknowledge the errors of their way, feelings deepen.
A sweet tale with some funny moments of deciding what is worth fighting for, choosing love over pride or the contrary.
5 stars
Mrs Hobbes is a second chance romance offered to thwarted lovers on the eve of Christmas. Amy and Anthony never said goodbye, what could have been never came to fruition and both believe they were not enough for the other. They buried their broken heart and life went on, until fifteen years late, their older widowed selves meet again. Can old sentiments and past pain cohabit and is forgiveness possible to many time after.
A lovely tale of star-crossed lovers reunited with a strong heroine and a beta hero who left their first chance pass by for fear of rejection.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CWlGFWDI...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
November 25, 2021
The Christmas Runaway
The Christmas Runaway finds Fiona MacKay lost in the Scottish Highlands, soaked through by the relentless drizzle and wearing uncomfortable new ankle boots. She had acted impulsively, running away from what she considered an unbearable suituation at home, deciding to visit her friend Mhairi in the hopes of making her father see sense. Her maid, Emily, and luggage were waiting at the train station, and now here was this unkempt stranger offering to take her to her destination. She should have listened to Emily and stayed the night in Aberdeen but she’d been too stubborn.
'The clatter of approaching hooves brought her back to her feet with an unladylike leap. Someone was coming! She crossed her fingers, hoping that it would be an older, respectable gentleman—a doctor or a minister, perhaps, preferably one who lived close by with an equally respectable wife, in a house with a warm hearth and conveniently empty bedroom.'
Fiona and Angus, Mhairi’s brother, don’t quite know what to make of each other—Fiona being so forthright and Angus, to Fiona’s mind, tending to be objectionable. Things escalate when the snow falls in earnest and Fiona is forced to stay longer than she anticipated. Windy Heads Tower is well named, being remote and at the mercy of the weather—a far cry from her home in Edinburgh.
The Christmas Runaway is a delightful Victorian romance in a beautiful setting among the rolling Scottish hills, and with a distant sea view.
Their Snowbound Reunion
Young sweethearts Amy Pritchard and Anthony Matthews had made plans to meet at their usual spot. After Anthony’s hint about the reason he wanted to see her, Amy expected a proposal of marriage. Due to Amy’s selfish and overbearing father wanting her to be at his beck and call she was late for the assignation, only to find Anthony had left his aunt’s house, leaving no message. Her hopes that he might return were shattered when she read of his engagement some time later.
Fifteen years had passed and Amy, now a widow, applied for the position of housekeeper for Windross. As well as housekeeping she would need to cataloguing the belongings of the late Miss Chase. Thankfully she should not need to see her would be employer, who happened to be Anthony Matthews, Miss Chase’s nephew.
'Any concern she had that Anthony Matthews would link the then twenty-four-year-old Amy Pritchard with Mrs Napier Munroe, widow of a Scottish botanist, was slight in the extreme but she had no desire to see him.'
Anthony had spent a lot of time at Windross when he was younger but now he lived in the city. Amy had fond memories of visits to the house, avoiding the times when Anthony would be there after he failed to meet her at their arranged time and place. It was strange to be at the house again, and as an employee. But Amy needed the work.
I enjoyed both these quick, easy reads very much. The characters are well defined and likeable and the settings are ideal for the time of the year. Perfect for snuggling up in a favourite reading spot with a mug of hot chocolate.
The Christmas Runaway finds Fiona MacKay lost in the Scottish Highlands, soaked through by the relentless drizzle and wearing uncomfortable new ankle boots. She had acted impulsively, running away from what she considered an unbearable suituation at home, deciding to visit her friend Mhairi in the hopes of making her father see sense. Her maid, Emily, and luggage were waiting at the train station, and now here was this unkempt stranger offering to take her to her destination. She should have listened to Emily and stayed the night in Aberdeen but she’d been too stubborn.
'The clatter of approaching hooves brought her back to her feet with an unladylike leap. Someone was coming! She crossed her fingers, hoping that it would be an older, respectable gentleman—a doctor or a minister, perhaps, preferably one who lived close by with an equally respectable wife, in a house with a warm hearth and conveniently empty bedroom.'
Fiona and Angus, Mhairi’s brother, don’t quite know what to make of each other—Fiona being so forthright and Angus, to Fiona’s mind, tending to be objectionable. Things escalate when the snow falls in earnest and Fiona is forced to stay longer than she anticipated. Windy Heads Tower is well named, being remote and at the mercy of the weather—a far cry from her home in Edinburgh.
The Christmas Runaway is a delightful Victorian romance in a beautiful setting among the rolling Scottish hills, and with a distant sea view.
Their Snowbound Reunion
Young sweethearts Amy Pritchard and Anthony Matthews had made plans to meet at their usual spot. After Anthony’s hint about the reason he wanted to see her, Amy expected a proposal of marriage. Due to Amy’s selfish and overbearing father wanting her to be at his beck and call she was late for the assignation, only to find Anthony had left his aunt’s house, leaving no message. Her hopes that he might return were shattered when she read of his engagement some time later.
Fifteen years had passed and Amy, now a widow, applied for the position of housekeeper for Windross. As well as housekeeping she would need to cataloguing the belongings of the late Miss Chase. Thankfully she should not need to see her would be employer, who happened to be Anthony Matthews, Miss Chase’s nephew.
'Any concern she had that Anthony Matthews would link the then twenty-four-year-old Amy Pritchard with Mrs Napier Munroe, widow of a Scottish botanist, was slight in the extreme but she had no desire to see him.'
Anthony had spent a lot of time at Windross when he was younger but now he lived in the city. Amy had fond memories of visits to the house, avoiding the times when Anthony would be there after he failed to meet her at their arranged time and place. It was strange to be at the house again, and as an employee. But Amy needed the work.
I enjoyed both these quick, easy reads very much. The characters are well defined and likeable and the settings are ideal for the time of the year. Perfect for snuggling up in a favourite reading spot with a mug of hot chocolate.
November 28, 2021
The delightful book contains two novellas, The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher, and Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes that will really get you feeling festive.
The Christmas Runaway is about Fiona who runs away from her father and impulsively decides to visit an old school friend, Mhairi who lives in a remote Scottish tower with her father, and her brother Angus.
I really loved the spark between Fiona and Angus, and the way in which they were both able to review their own stubborn points of view. They were so perfect together, even if neither of them could see that at the start.
I loved the Aberdeenshire location, the bleakness, and the beauty of a snow-covered landscape was just the most perfect festive setting.
Their Snowbound Reunion is about Amy and Anthony, who were childhood sweethearts who each believed that they had been abandoned by the other. We meet them 15 years later and both widowed, when Amy takes a job as housekeeper to a house that Anthony has inherited but does not intend to keep. A decision to visit the house, and a snowstorm that traps Anthony and his children at the house, thrusts Amy and Anthony together again.
I loved the way in which both of them, in spite of the love they had for their lost spouses, still clung to their first love, and being thrown together in such circumstances gave them the opportunity to get past the problems in the past, and work towards a future together.
The setting, in the beautiful Peak District really added to the festive feel and I loved reading about the decorations they put up in the house with the help of Anthony’s young children.
These two novellas were the perfect read in the run up to Christmas, and will leave you feeling very festive, and wanting to make Christmas garlands, and drink mulled wine!
The Christmas Runaway is about Fiona who runs away from her father and impulsively decides to visit an old school friend, Mhairi who lives in a remote Scottish tower with her father, and her brother Angus.
I really loved the spark between Fiona and Angus, and the way in which they were both able to review their own stubborn points of view. They were so perfect together, even if neither of them could see that at the start.
I loved the Aberdeenshire location, the bleakness, and the beauty of a snow-covered landscape was just the most perfect festive setting.
Their Snowbound Reunion is about Amy and Anthony, who were childhood sweethearts who each believed that they had been abandoned by the other. We meet them 15 years later and both widowed, when Amy takes a job as housekeeper to a house that Anthony has inherited but does not intend to keep. A decision to visit the house, and a snowstorm that traps Anthony and his children at the house, thrusts Amy and Anthony together again.
I loved the way in which both of them, in spite of the love they had for their lost spouses, still clung to their first love, and being thrown together in such circumstances gave them the opportunity to get past the problems in the past, and work towards a future together.
The setting, in the beautiful Peak District really added to the festive feel and I loved reading about the decorations they put up in the house with the help of Anthony’s young children.
These two novellas were the perfect read in the run up to Christmas, and will leave you feeling very festive, and wanting to make Christmas garlands, and drink mulled wine!
December 4, 2021
My Review:
Snow-Kissed Proposals is Harlequin Historical’s latest book, which features two short stories. It is the perfect Christmas book to curl up with in front of a roaring fire, with a huge mug of hot chocolate.
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher
Fiona has run away from home after confrontation with her Father, over her distaste for his choice of Fiancée. She decides the only way to get through to him, is to do something dramatic to bring him to his senses. Fiona decides the perfect place to stay, is with her old school friend Mhairi’s, in the middle of nowhere! Fiona first meets Angus Drummond when she is lost in the Scottish wilderness. Angus turns out to Mhairi’s older brother and escorts Fiona to their home. The two make a very bad first impression on each other. Mhairi isn’t expecting her old friend, but welcomes her with open arms, telling her she can stay as long as she wants. Angus is annoyed with his sister, it’s November and once the snow arrives, they could potentially be stuck with Fiona for months.
Angus and Fiona keep clashing, but eventually they make amends when he takes her to visit his father’s whiskey distillery, which he is currently restoring. The two begin to get closer, and their feelings intensify when Fiona gets lost in the snow one night and Angus rescues her. Just when the two consider getting together, it is revealed that Fiona has a secret that could ruin her chances of being with proud Angus.
I love Jenni Fletcher’s books, and this one was no exception! The Christmas Runaway was such an enjoyable story. The characters were all really likeable and Angus reminded me of Jamie, from Outlander! As well as the romance between the leading characters, I loved Fiona and Mhairi’s supportive, sisterly friendship throughout the book. Everything was really well researched, and I felt like I learnt a few things about the time period too. I had some laugh out loud moments, at Angus and Fiona’s quips at each other. And I now desperately want to visit Scotland!
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes
Anthony Matthews and Amy Pritchard were young lovers. However, things turned sour when, on the verge of proposing, Anthony leaves unannounced. Devastated, Amy is left behind looking after her horrible poet Father, who treats her like a servant. Eventually she marries another man.
Fifteen years later, Amy is now a widow and looking for a job. She is employed as a housekeeper at Anthony’s house. Although, she is assured that it is highly unlikely she will ever see him, as he will be living elsewhere. Amy isn’t too worried, afterall, she is fifteen years older, and her name is now Mrs Napier Munroe. However, one day she receives a note from Anthony asking her to meet with him the next day, as he is visiting and would like to go over the affairs of the house. When Anthony steps out of his carriage, he is gobsmacked to discover Amy is his new housekeeper!
Anthony is a widow himself and has two young children with him. The weather takes a turn, and what should have been a quick visit ends with Anthony and the children being unable to leave due to heavy snow. Amy and Anthony are extremely frosty with each other, both blaming the other for how their relationship ended. They eventually begin to get closer but agree that if they are to try and forge something new together, then they need to finally discuss what happened fifteen years ago. Will they be able to resolve their differences, and enjoy Christmas together as a new family, or will the truth about what actually happened tear them apart once more?
I really enjoyed this story. I liked the historical research Elisabeth weaved into the story, such as Victorian mourning and mourning dress. Both characters were approaching middle age, and although they had gone on to marry people they cared about, nothing matched the love they had once felt for each other, fifteen years prior. It felt like a second chance at happiness for them both, and I loved the twist near the end! I look forward to reading more of Elisabeth's books in future.
If you want something historical and romantic this Christmas, then this is the perfect book for you! Short stories can sometimes seem rushed, but both of these were perfectly paced. I thoroughly enjoyed them both and read the book within a couple of days! Highly recommended.
Thank you very much to Harlequin Historical and Rachel's Random Resources, for the review copy.
Snow-Kissed Proposals is Harlequin Historical’s latest book, which features two short stories. It is the perfect Christmas book to curl up with in front of a roaring fire, with a huge mug of hot chocolate.
The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher
Fiona has run away from home after confrontation with her Father, over her distaste for his choice of Fiancée. She decides the only way to get through to him, is to do something dramatic to bring him to his senses. Fiona decides the perfect place to stay, is with her old school friend Mhairi’s, in the middle of nowhere! Fiona first meets Angus Drummond when she is lost in the Scottish wilderness. Angus turns out to Mhairi’s older brother and escorts Fiona to their home. The two make a very bad first impression on each other. Mhairi isn’t expecting her old friend, but welcomes her with open arms, telling her she can stay as long as she wants. Angus is annoyed with his sister, it’s November and once the snow arrives, they could potentially be stuck with Fiona for months.
Angus and Fiona keep clashing, but eventually they make amends when he takes her to visit his father’s whiskey distillery, which he is currently restoring. The two begin to get closer, and their feelings intensify when Fiona gets lost in the snow one night and Angus rescues her. Just when the two consider getting together, it is revealed that Fiona has a secret that could ruin her chances of being with proud Angus.
I love Jenni Fletcher’s books, and this one was no exception! The Christmas Runaway was such an enjoyable story. The characters were all really likeable and Angus reminded me of Jamie, from Outlander! As well as the romance between the leading characters, I loved Fiona and Mhairi’s supportive, sisterly friendship throughout the book. Everything was really well researched, and I felt like I learnt a few things about the time period too. I had some laugh out loud moments, at Angus and Fiona’s quips at each other. And I now desperately want to visit Scotland!
Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes
Anthony Matthews and Amy Pritchard were young lovers. However, things turned sour when, on the verge of proposing, Anthony leaves unannounced. Devastated, Amy is left behind looking after her horrible poet Father, who treats her like a servant. Eventually she marries another man.
Fifteen years later, Amy is now a widow and looking for a job. She is employed as a housekeeper at Anthony’s house. Although, she is assured that it is highly unlikely she will ever see him, as he will be living elsewhere. Amy isn’t too worried, afterall, she is fifteen years older, and her name is now Mrs Napier Munroe. However, one day she receives a note from Anthony asking her to meet with him the next day, as he is visiting and would like to go over the affairs of the house. When Anthony steps out of his carriage, he is gobsmacked to discover Amy is his new housekeeper!
Anthony is a widow himself and has two young children with him. The weather takes a turn, and what should have been a quick visit ends with Anthony and the children being unable to leave due to heavy snow. Amy and Anthony are extremely frosty with each other, both blaming the other for how their relationship ended. They eventually begin to get closer but agree that if they are to try and forge something new together, then they need to finally discuss what happened fifteen years ago. Will they be able to resolve their differences, and enjoy Christmas together as a new family, or will the truth about what actually happened tear them apart once more?
I really enjoyed this story. I liked the historical research Elisabeth weaved into the story, such as Victorian mourning and mourning dress. Both characters were approaching middle age, and although they had gone on to marry people they cared about, nothing matched the love they had once felt for each other, fifteen years prior. It felt like a second chance at happiness for them both, and I loved the twist near the end! I look forward to reading more of Elisabeth's books in future.
If you want something historical and romantic this Christmas, then this is the perfect book for you! Short stories can sometimes seem rushed, but both of these were perfectly paced. I thoroughly enjoyed them both and read the book within a couple of days! Highly recommended.
Thank you very much to Harlequin Historical and Rachel's Random Resources, for the review copy.
December 17, 2021
Two novellas of love at the festive season, romance in difficult circumstances sparkle with the hope of attraction and the possibility of expressing that love. Both set in the Victorian era, they feature life in large houses but not necessarily among the wealthy, those who have faced hard times and now are challenged by the elements. They share humour and a spark of realism, well written characters and lively dialogue. The settings are well drawn and the backgrounds of homes, grounds and homes evoke imaginative pictures. The clothes are well described for both genders, giving support to characteristics and signifying much about the occasion and state of mind. Both authors have truly grasped the importance of satisfying plots and realistic characters, and I am so pleased to have had the opportunity to read and review this delightful book of two short novels.
In The Christmas Runaway, the impetuous Miss Fiona MacKay is introduced as she finds herself stranded in appalling weather trying to reach her friends house. She has run away from her comfortable home and father; she has the reputation for being adventurous and curious. Happily she is rescued by a man who she at first takes for a rural worker with a cart, as his untidy working clothes and general appearance seem to suggest. She is pretty dishevelled herself after all, and wearing bright and unsuitable clothing for the place in which she is walking. She soon discovers her mistake as to the identity of the large and good looking rescuer, but is not discomposed for long. When she reaches territory she sets about renewing an old and strong friendship, and giving her honest opinion to those who need to hear it. Gradually being trapped with Angus Drummond does not seem so bad after a while, and indeed they seem well matched in terms of being headstrong and determined, even when they clash.Can the approaching festive season bring them together, or push them apart forever.
Their Snowbound Reunion deals with slightly older people who meet after a gap of some fifteen years. The story begins with the young Amy rushing to meet Anthony at a favourite spot in the village where she lived and he was visiting his aunt. When he does not turn up she is told that he left the area in the morning in the hope of a job with a newspaper. Several years later Amy has returned to the house in which Anthony’s aunt once lived to apply for a job as a housekeeper, learning that Anthony has inherited the house but does not intend to visit at any point. Keen to get a job, she agrees to work there and compile an inventory of the house contents.After all, she has moved on, married and been widowed, and knows the area well. However, it suddenly appears that Anthony is going to make a short visit to the house, and in the run up to Christmas he will return to the house he has not seen for many years. Amy and the household have been preparing for a very quiet Christmas, but it now seems that things will be very different.
This is a lovely read, especially in the build up to Christmas. Both authors are well versed in creating escapism in historical fiction, and their two couples are vibrant and vivid creations. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romantic historical fiction, especially at Christmas.
In The Christmas Runaway, the impetuous Miss Fiona MacKay is introduced as she finds herself stranded in appalling weather trying to reach her friends house. She has run away from her comfortable home and father; she has the reputation for being adventurous and curious. Happily she is rescued by a man who she at first takes for a rural worker with a cart, as his untidy working clothes and general appearance seem to suggest. She is pretty dishevelled herself after all, and wearing bright and unsuitable clothing for the place in which she is walking. She soon discovers her mistake as to the identity of the large and good looking rescuer, but is not discomposed for long. When she reaches territory she sets about renewing an old and strong friendship, and giving her honest opinion to those who need to hear it. Gradually being trapped with Angus Drummond does not seem so bad after a while, and indeed they seem well matched in terms of being headstrong and determined, even when they clash.Can the approaching festive season bring them together, or push them apart forever.
Their Snowbound Reunion deals with slightly older people who meet after a gap of some fifteen years. The story begins with the young Amy rushing to meet Anthony at a favourite spot in the village where she lived and he was visiting his aunt. When he does not turn up she is told that he left the area in the morning in the hope of a job with a newspaper. Several years later Amy has returned to the house in which Anthony’s aunt once lived to apply for a job as a housekeeper, learning that Anthony has inherited the house but does not intend to visit at any point. Keen to get a job, she agrees to work there and compile an inventory of the house contents.After all, she has moved on, married and been widowed, and knows the area well. However, it suddenly appears that Anthony is going to make a short visit to the house, and in the run up to Christmas he will return to the house he has not seen for many years. Amy and the household have been preparing for a very quiet Christmas, but it now seems that things will be very different.
This is a lovely read, especially in the build up to Christmas. Both authors are well versed in creating escapism in historical fiction, and their two couples are vibrant and vivid creations. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romantic historical fiction, especially at Christmas.
November 30, 2021
4.5 Stars
Snow-Kissed Proposals is a superb anthology featuring two festive short stories by Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes that will delight and enchant historical romance readers everywhere.
In Jenni Fletcher’s The Christmas Runaway, Fiona MacKay is an heiress who is certainly no shrinking violet. Fiona is a young woman who knows what she wants and who will not be cowed or intimidated by anyone. Fiona wants to be in charge of her own future and her own destiny, but when she impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower, she finds herself trapped in the snow with a man who is more than a match for her: Angus Drummond.
Angus doesn’t suffer fools gladly and he is as stubborn, headstrong and impulsive as Fiona. With the two of them thrust in close proximity together, tensions begin to rise and passions start running high. With temptation proving far too hard to resist, Fiona and Angus quickly give into their feelings for one another. But when the snow thaws, will Fiona and Angus end up going their separate ways? Or will a snow-kissed proposal bind them together for life?
Award-winning author Jenni Fletcher can make any historical period her own and in The Christmas Runaway, she has written a spellbinding tale that transports readers to the Victorian era and captivates them with a beguiling blend of emotional intensity, heart-pounding drama and tender romance. A fantastic short story that hits all the right notes, The Christmas Runaway is a must-read by Jenni Fletcher.
Two former lovers get a second chance at happiness in Elisabeth Hobbes’ Their Snowbound Reunion.
Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews had once been head over heels in love with one another. They had great plans for the future and they both believed that they would be spending the rest of their lives together until a cruel twist of fate had torn them asunder for good. Amy and Anthony believed that all hope was lost for the two of them – until they were reunited again in the most unexpected of ways.
When Amy found herself becoming her former lover’s housekeeper, long-buried feelings and never forgotten emotions quickly come rushing back to the surface. Anthony was the only man who had ever managed to get under her skin, but with so much history between the two of them, is she ready to let go of the past and give their romance another try? Or should she just resign herself to the fact that theirs is a love that simply cannot be?
Now that Amy is back in his life, Anthony is not prepared to let her go again. Will a Christmas miracle lead to a lifetime of future happiness? Or is it too late for the two of them?
Heartwarming, dramatic and emotional, Elisabeth Hobbes’ Their Snowbound Reunion is a wonderfully written Victorian short story that I thoroughly enjoyed. A touching and hopeful second-chance romance with a resilient heroine, charismatic hero and plenty of passion, pathos and charm, Their Snowbound Reunion is an enthralling Victorian tale by Elisabeth Hobbes.
Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth’s Snow-Kissed Proposals is a terrific Yuletide anthology romantics everywhere need to put on their Christmas lists.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Snow-Kissed Proposals is a superb anthology featuring two festive short stories by Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes that will delight and enchant historical romance readers everywhere.
In Jenni Fletcher’s The Christmas Runaway, Fiona MacKay is an heiress who is certainly no shrinking violet. Fiona is a young woman who knows what she wants and who will not be cowed or intimidated by anyone. Fiona wants to be in charge of her own future and her own destiny, but when she impulsively runs away to a remote Scottish tower, she finds herself trapped in the snow with a man who is more than a match for her: Angus Drummond.
Angus doesn’t suffer fools gladly and he is as stubborn, headstrong and impulsive as Fiona. With the two of them thrust in close proximity together, tensions begin to rise and passions start running high. With temptation proving far too hard to resist, Fiona and Angus quickly give into their feelings for one another. But when the snow thaws, will Fiona and Angus end up going their separate ways? Or will a snow-kissed proposal bind them together for life?
Award-winning author Jenni Fletcher can make any historical period her own and in The Christmas Runaway, she has written a spellbinding tale that transports readers to the Victorian era and captivates them with a beguiling blend of emotional intensity, heart-pounding drama and tender romance. A fantastic short story that hits all the right notes, The Christmas Runaway is a must-read by Jenni Fletcher.
Two former lovers get a second chance at happiness in Elisabeth Hobbes’ Their Snowbound Reunion.
Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews had once been head over heels in love with one another. They had great plans for the future and they both believed that they would be spending the rest of their lives together until a cruel twist of fate had torn them asunder for good. Amy and Anthony believed that all hope was lost for the two of them – until they were reunited again in the most unexpected of ways.
When Amy found herself becoming her former lover’s housekeeper, long-buried feelings and never forgotten emotions quickly come rushing back to the surface. Anthony was the only man who had ever managed to get under her skin, but with so much history between the two of them, is she ready to let go of the past and give their romance another try? Or should she just resign herself to the fact that theirs is a love that simply cannot be?
Now that Amy is back in his life, Anthony is not prepared to let her go again. Will a Christmas miracle lead to a lifetime of future happiness? Or is it too late for the two of them?
Heartwarming, dramatic and emotional, Elisabeth Hobbes’ Their Snowbound Reunion is a wonderfully written Victorian short story that I thoroughly enjoyed. A touching and hopeful second-chance romance with a resilient heroine, charismatic hero and plenty of passion, pathos and charm, Their Snowbound Reunion is an enthralling Victorian tale by Elisabeth Hobbes.
Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth’s Snow-Kissed Proposals is a terrific Yuletide anthology romantics everywhere need to put on their Christmas lists.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 6, 2024
Review of 'The Christmas Runaway' by Jenni Fletcher:
In protest of her father's marriage to a much younger woman, Fiona McKay runs away to her friend Mhairi's house in a remote part of Scotland. On her way there, she realizes she has made a mistake, not properly preparing herself for the journey. Along comes a scraggly man smelling of whiskey. She is reluctant to accept his help in finding her friend's home, but she soon realizes he is none other than her friend's brother, Angus Drummond, and he lives where she is going. She soon finds the explanation as to why he smelled like a distillery, but can she overcome Angus's initial disapproval of her plain-spoken ways, and her more garish clothing? When Fiona and Angus spend more time together, snowed in at his home, they feel a spark between them. Can Angus get over his discovery that Fiona is actually rich? After all, his father had married his mother for her money, and Angus doesn't want anyone to think that he'd be marrying Fiona for her money. This was a delightful story set in Scotland during a snowy winter. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Review of Their Snowbound Reunion' by Elisabeth Hobbes
Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews had once been in love, but the day Anthony was supposed to ask Amy to marry him, he never showed up at their meeting place. Instead, he had left their village and never returned. Amy nursed her sorrow over Anthony's betrayal for a time, but she eventually married to another man when she heard that Anthony was marrying another woman. Although her marriage wasn't a regret to her, when her husband dies, she finds herself needing to work for a living after her selfish father left her nothing. She applies for the job to take care of a house in her home village, that had belonged to Anthony Matthew's aunt before her death, which Anthony now owns. Amy was reassured that Anthony would never visit the home, but now he is there at Christmas time. Amy is horrified about that, and so is Anthony when he realizes that Amy is the woman he hired from a distance. He is now a widower and he has brought his son Oliver and his daughter Rose with him to the house. Snowed in and with no chance for the roads to be passable for some time, Anthony finds himself uncomfortable to spend time in Amy's company. Amy is equally uneasy. But when a letter Amy supposedly wrote to Anthony fifteen years before comes to light, can they finally make sense of what happened all those years ago, and move on into the future? This was a warm story of rekindled love.
In protest of her father's marriage to a much younger woman, Fiona McKay runs away to her friend Mhairi's house in a remote part of Scotland. On her way there, she realizes she has made a mistake, not properly preparing herself for the journey. Along comes a scraggly man smelling of whiskey. She is reluctant to accept his help in finding her friend's home, but she soon realizes he is none other than her friend's brother, Angus Drummond, and he lives where she is going. She soon finds the explanation as to why he smelled like a distillery, but can she overcome Angus's initial disapproval of her plain-spoken ways, and her more garish clothing? When Fiona and Angus spend more time together, snowed in at his home, they feel a spark between them. Can Angus get over his discovery that Fiona is actually rich? After all, his father had married his mother for her money, and Angus doesn't want anyone to think that he'd be marrying Fiona for her money. This was a delightful story set in Scotland during a snowy winter. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Review of Their Snowbound Reunion' by Elisabeth Hobbes
Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews had once been in love, but the day Anthony was supposed to ask Amy to marry him, he never showed up at their meeting place. Instead, he had left their village and never returned. Amy nursed her sorrow over Anthony's betrayal for a time, but she eventually married to another man when she heard that Anthony was marrying another woman. Although her marriage wasn't a regret to her, when her husband dies, she finds herself needing to work for a living after her selfish father left her nothing. She applies for the job to take care of a house in her home village, that had belonged to Anthony Matthew's aunt before her death, which Anthony now owns. Amy was reassured that Anthony would never visit the home, but now he is there at Christmas time. Amy is horrified about that, and so is Anthony when he realizes that Amy is the woman he hired from a distance. He is now a widower and he has brought his son Oliver and his daughter Rose with him to the house. Snowed in and with no chance for the roads to be passable for some time, Anthony finds himself uncomfortable to spend time in Amy's company. Amy is equally uneasy. But when a letter Amy supposedly wrote to Anthony fifteen years before comes to light, can they finally make sense of what happened all those years ago, and move on into the future? This was a warm story of rekindled love.
November 15, 2021
Snow-Kissed Proposals is a gorgeous two-for-one festive feast of a read from authors Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes.
THE CHRISTMAS RUNAWAY – I adored this novella by Jenni Fletcher it has put me in a cosy mood reminiscent of sitting by the fire with a hot drink and a good book.
Fiona wasn’t happy with her father, how dare he consider marrying again and to a woman 18 years his junior? Feeling so off kilter with this news Fiona, with the help of her maid, head to the hills of Aberdeenshire to visit her old school friend Mhairi. Aberdeenshire is not like her beloved city of Edinburgh, it’s wild and vast and now that she’s left the warmth of the train and making the rest of the journey on foot Fiona is feeling cold, miserable and lost. Bumping into a very unkempt looking stranger Fiona is now wishing she ignored her stubborn ways and stayed with her maid at the station.
The Christmas Runaway is a fine example of a Victorian romance, perfect to escape with. I loved witnessing the blossoming friendship between our leading lady and gentleman and seeing how their personalities developed with each other.
You will marvel with the bleakness of the setting with it’s rugged landscape and it’s wild, unpredictable weathers. The romance will surprise you, just like the characters and bring warmth to your heart.
THIER SNOWBOUND REUNION – Another thoroughly enjoyable Victorian romance brought to you by author Elisabeth Hobbes and is set in the rural landscape of the Peak District in Derbyshire.
Amy and Anthony were childhood sweethearts and were destined to be together always but alas it wasn’t to be and they went their separate ways.
15 years later Amy accepts the position of Housekeeper at a house that once belonged to her old sweethearts Aunt. Many years have passed since Amy and Anthony saw each other and their lives have changed considerably but this first love hasn’t left each others hearts and they were both left wondering why it had to end so abruptly.
I adored the setting of this festive read, a beautiful house in the Derbyshire countryside. It sounded so idyllic but also quirky with it’s unusual artefacts.
Meeting each other again brought back so many emotions, questions and fond memories. I could feel the tension between the pair when they are reunited. I also felt the profound loss they had to endure and it was sad to hear that other influences had thwarted a beautiful friendship.
A nostalgic, beautiful, festive, feel-good read.
THE CHRISTMAS RUNAWAY – I adored this novella by Jenni Fletcher it has put me in a cosy mood reminiscent of sitting by the fire with a hot drink and a good book.
Fiona wasn’t happy with her father, how dare he consider marrying again and to a woman 18 years his junior? Feeling so off kilter with this news Fiona, with the help of her maid, head to the hills of Aberdeenshire to visit her old school friend Mhairi. Aberdeenshire is not like her beloved city of Edinburgh, it’s wild and vast and now that she’s left the warmth of the train and making the rest of the journey on foot Fiona is feeling cold, miserable and lost. Bumping into a very unkempt looking stranger Fiona is now wishing she ignored her stubborn ways and stayed with her maid at the station.
The Christmas Runaway is a fine example of a Victorian romance, perfect to escape with. I loved witnessing the blossoming friendship between our leading lady and gentleman and seeing how their personalities developed with each other.
You will marvel with the bleakness of the setting with it’s rugged landscape and it’s wild, unpredictable weathers. The romance will surprise you, just like the characters and bring warmth to your heart.
THIER SNOWBOUND REUNION – Another thoroughly enjoyable Victorian romance brought to you by author Elisabeth Hobbes and is set in the rural landscape of the Peak District in Derbyshire.
Amy and Anthony were childhood sweethearts and were destined to be together always but alas it wasn’t to be and they went their separate ways.
15 years later Amy accepts the position of Housekeeper at a house that once belonged to her old sweethearts Aunt. Many years have passed since Amy and Anthony saw each other and their lives have changed considerably but this first love hasn’t left each others hearts and they were both left wondering why it had to end so abruptly.
I adored the setting of this festive read, a beautiful house in the Derbyshire countryside. It sounded so idyllic but also quirky with it’s unusual artefacts.
Meeting each other again brought back so many emotions, questions and fond memories. I could feel the tension between the pair when they are reunited. I also felt the profound loss they had to endure and it was sad to hear that other influences had thwarted a beautiful friendship.
A nostalgic, beautiful, festive, feel-good read.
November 25, 2021
In The Christmas Runaway, Fiona is visiting her friend Mhairi at Windy Towers in Aberdeen when she comes across Angus. Fiona’s first impression of Angus is that he is dishevelled; a drunkard and nothing close to a gentleman. Angus’ first impression of Fiona is that she’s uppity, prim and proper. It quickly transpires that Angus is Mhairi’s brother and when they are both stranded together during a heavy snow storm will they find common ground.
I am a big fan of Jenni Fletcher because she’s a brilliant author. This was a smashing read and I loved everything about it. It’s a story where two characters form an opinion on the other based solely on their first meeting. They both definitely judge a book by its cover. I liked both Fiona and Angus as characters especially because they both challenge each other’s opinions and behaviour.
In Their Snowbound Reunion, Amy and Anthony were more than mere acquaintances when he abruptly left and Amy was heartbroken to find out he’d become engaged to another woman. 15 years later, Amy as a housekeeper in the home of Anthony’s late aunt which he has just inherited on the understanding that their paths will never cross. When Anthony pays an unexpected visit how will they react to seeing each other and will the truth of what happened 15 years ago that ore them apart finally come to light.
I was really intrigued to find out more about how and why Amy and Anthony became estranged which was slowly revealed throughout the book. To begin with they both seemed to dance around the subject, each thinking that it was the other who was at fault until the truth was finally revealed. Elizabeth Hobbes is a new author to me but I would really like to read more from her as this was a brilliant read.
On the whole I really enjoyed both of these short stories and although I say short stories they did feel like full length novels in their own right. I loved the characters, storylines and settings. There was clearly tension between the two couples when they first meet. In Fiona and Angus’ case there was an enemies to lovers concept and in Amy and Anthony’s case there was a second chance romance concept.
A book to read on a cosy winter night at Christmas.
I am a big fan of Jenni Fletcher because she’s a brilliant author. This was a smashing read and I loved everything about it. It’s a story where two characters form an opinion on the other based solely on their first meeting. They both definitely judge a book by its cover. I liked both Fiona and Angus as characters especially because they both challenge each other’s opinions and behaviour.
In Their Snowbound Reunion, Amy and Anthony were more than mere acquaintances when he abruptly left and Amy was heartbroken to find out he’d become engaged to another woman. 15 years later, Amy as a housekeeper in the home of Anthony’s late aunt which he has just inherited on the understanding that their paths will never cross. When Anthony pays an unexpected visit how will they react to seeing each other and will the truth of what happened 15 years ago that ore them apart finally come to light.
I was really intrigued to find out more about how and why Amy and Anthony became estranged which was slowly revealed throughout the book. To begin with they both seemed to dance around the subject, each thinking that it was the other who was at fault until the truth was finally revealed. Elizabeth Hobbes is a new author to me but I would really like to read more from her as this was a brilliant read.
On the whole I really enjoyed both of these short stories and although I say short stories they did feel like full length novels in their own right. I loved the characters, storylines and settings. There was clearly tension between the two couples when they first meet. In Fiona and Angus’ case there was an enemies to lovers concept and in Amy and Anthony’s case there was a second chance romance concept.
A book to read on a cosy winter night at Christmas.
December 5, 2021
The first book in this duet is called The Christmas Runaway and tells the story of Fiona and Angus. Their story is told over the course of 15 Chapters and set in Scotland in 1892. From the very beginning readers will be intrigued especially since the story begins with a misunderstanding. This book is easy to get stuck into and the point of view switches between our two main characters. A brilliant thing about this story is that the readers really get to watch as Fiona and Angus's feelings grow and change.
This book is also informative on an industry, not to the point that it bombards the reader with too much information. More that it gives the person just enough information to get them interested and then can continue looking into the subject if they wish to do so. This book will have emotions involved, readers will find themselves reaching for a tissue one minute to giggling and laughing out loud the next.
The second book is called Their Snowbound Reunion and tells the story of Amy and Anthony. Their story is told over they course of 11 Chapters as well as a Prologue and Epilogue. Right from the beginning of this book readers will be intrigued with the relationship that these characters share. These characters clearly have a past, which may affect their future. The Prologue of this story really draws the reader in and makes them interested in how the story plays out.
Throughout the book the point of view does switch between the two characters. When this happens it really means that the reader discovers both sides of their shared past. As they make there way through this book they will be eager to discover who side of the story is correct or whether both stories have a resemblance of the truth within.
This book is also informative on an industry, not to the point that it bombards the reader with too much information. More that it gives the person just enough information to get them interested and then can continue looking into the subject if they wish to do so. This book will have emotions involved, readers will find themselves reaching for a tissue one minute to giggling and laughing out loud the next.
The second book is called Their Snowbound Reunion and tells the story of Amy and Anthony. Their story is told over they course of 11 Chapters as well as a Prologue and Epilogue. Right from the beginning of this book readers will be intrigued with the relationship that these characters share. These characters clearly have a past, which may affect their future. The Prologue of this story really draws the reader in and makes them interested in how the story plays out.
Throughout the book the point of view does switch between the two characters. When this happens it really means that the reader discovers both sides of their shared past. As they make there way through this book they will be eager to discover who side of the story is correct or whether both stories have a resemblance of the truth within.
November 25, 2021
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser.
Two enchanting stories with utterly loveable characters and romance that will melt your heart, SNOW-KISSED PROPOSALS by Jenni Fletcher & Elisabeth Hobbes is the perfect romance read to curl up on the sofa with this winter.
From determined, intelligent women who know what they deserve to the headstrong and passionate men that love them for who they are, both of these stories are sure to tick all of the boxes on your romance and festive list this year. Fiona is upfront, straight-talking, and unwilling to shrink herself to please a man but when she meets her best friend's brother Angus, she cannot help but feel the spark and he may just be her match in every possible way. Cruelly kept from each other all those years ago, Amy and Anthony have never forgiven each other for what they believed happened but when they find themselves in the same house, could the truth set their love free?
SNOW-KISSED PROPOSALS is simply warm and lovely in every possible way and reading both of these stories truly made me smile and would make a fantastic two-story collection for yourself or as a gift this festive season.
Two enchanting stories with utterly loveable characters and romance that will melt your heart, SNOW-KISSED PROPOSALS by Jenni Fletcher & Elisabeth Hobbes is the perfect romance read to curl up on the sofa with this winter.
From determined, intelligent women who know what they deserve to the headstrong and passionate men that love them for who they are, both of these stories are sure to tick all of the boxes on your romance and festive list this year. Fiona is upfront, straight-talking, and unwilling to shrink herself to please a man but when she meets her best friend's brother Angus, she cannot help but feel the spark and he may just be her match in every possible way. Cruelly kept from each other all those years ago, Amy and Anthony have never forgiven each other for what they believed happened but when they find themselves in the same house, could the truth set their love free?
SNOW-KISSED PROPOSALS is simply warm and lovely in every possible way and reading both of these stories truly made me smile and would make a fantastic two-story collection for yourself or as a gift this festive season.
November 25, 2021
I've always veered well away from these books before as I thought they were 'older lady books', but this has proved me wrong & reawakened my liking for a good old fashioned romantic read.
Both of the stories were great, they each had characters that were instantly likable. The settings were descriptive & idyllic, so much so that I found myself drifting back in time.
An entertaining, heartwarming Christmas read & I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 4 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
Both of the stories were great, they each had characters that were instantly likable. The settings were descriptive & idyllic, so much so that I found myself drifting back in time.
An entertaining, heartwarming Christmas read & I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 4 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
December 10, 2024
I enjoyed the first story, The Christmas Runaway, about a woman who runs away in protest of her father's upcoming wedding, only to fall for her friend's rugged brother. The second story, Their Snowbound Reunion, was pretty boring. The only confict being a years-old misunderstanding that doesn't get cleared up until the very end is just never going to be my jam.
December 18, 2021
Two women, two different tales about love…
The Christmas Runaway
When Fiona MacKay’s father is getting married again and to a much younger woman, Fiona isn’t very happy with the changes that will occur. So she decides to run away and hopes she can stay with her friend Mhairi in Windy Heads Tower, in remote Scotland. But she doesn’t expect to spend time with Angus Drummond too…
Their Snowbound Reunion
Fifteen years ago, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were madly in love. But they cruelly went their separate ways, blaming each other for their broken hearts.. Now Amy is Anthony’s new housekeeper, believing that Anthony won’t visit the place a lot. But when Anthony and his children are forced to stay longer than predicted, old passion are reignited.
Is there something more beautiful and heart – warming than a romance in the snow? Because for me, it surely is on top of the most romantic things in a book!
Both stories are taking place around Christmas, so plenty of snow is guaranteed! But that’s how far the similarities goes…
In Jenni Fletcher’s story we see how Fiona seeks refuge in Scotland, with her friend Mhiari. Even if I thought that running away wasn’t the solution for her issues, I understood where she was coming from. It’s been her and her father for a long time, and now everything changes, and that is not an easy thing to digest…
I found Fiona a marvellous character. When she meets Angus, it’s not under normal circumstances, but she stands her ground. And when that first misunderstanding is cleared, we see also that Fiona is a kind character, looking after her friend Mhiari, and isn’t afraid to face confrontation with Angus. I loved reading how Fiona and Angus were almost in a constant fight, but it also warmed my heart to see how they were melting towards each other. They couldn’t be more different, but that’s part of the attraction, isn’t it?
Elisabeth Hobbes’ story is a whole different kind. The beginning is already a heart – breaking one. We barely started to know the love couple and then it’s already over… And then fast forward fifteen years…
Amy’s and Anthony’s lives took a different direction, but Fate brought them back together, even if that wasn’t their intention to ever meet again.
Oh but how I loved seeing how Amy and Anthony are growing back close together! And may I say that his children are just too adorable! Of course, the huge elephant in the room must be addressed, and when the truth came out, I cannot say I was totally surprised by it… It warmed my heart to see how Amy tried to show Anthony that loosen up won’t be the end of the world. And then seeing what Anthony does afterwards, made my heart melt.
Both stories were so wonderful to read. The only ‘negative’ I can say, is that the stories were just too short! I would have loved to read more about these lovely women, and their love interests. But even if it was all too quickly over, I enjoyed reading every bit of it. And sometimes it’s the short stories that show us the importance of love and how fast it sometimes can go!
The Christmas Runaway
When Fiona MacKay’s father is getting married again and to a much younger woman, Fiona isn’t very happy with the changes that will occur. So she decides to run away and hopes she can stay with her friend Mhairi in Windy Heads Tower, in remote Scotland. But she doesn’t expect to spend time with Angus Drummond too…
Their Snowbound Reunion
Fifteen years ago, Amy Munroe and Anthony Matthews were madly in love. But they cruelly went their separate ways, blaming each other for their broken hearts.. Now Amy is Anthony’s new housekeeper, believing that Anthony won’t visit the place a lot. But when Anthony and his children are forced to stay longer than predicted, old passion are reignited.
Is there something more beautiful and heart – warming than a romance in the snow? Because for me, it surely is on top of the most romantic things in a book!
Both stories are taking place around Christmas, so plenty of snow is guaranteed! But that’s how far the similarities goes…
In Jenni Fletcher’s story we see how Fiona seeks refuge in Scotland, with her friend Mhiari. Even if I thought that running away wasn’t the solution for her issues, I understood where she was coming from. It’s been her and her father for a long time, and now everything changes, and that is not an easy thing to digest…
I found Fiona a marvellous character. When she meets Angus, it’s not under normal circumstances, but she stands her ground. And when that first misunderstanding is cleared, we see also that Fiona is a kind character, looking after her friend Mhiari, and isn’t afraid to face confrontation with Angus. I loved reading how Fiona and Angus were almost in a constant fight, but it also warmed my heart to see how they were melting towards each other. They couldn’t be more different, but that’s part of the attraction, isn’t it?
Elisabeth Hobbes’ story is a whole different kind. The beginning is already a heart – breaking one. We barely started to know the love couple and then it’s already over… And then fast forward fifteen years…
Amy’s and Anthony’s lives took a different direction, but Fate brought them back together, even if that wasn’t their intention to ever meet again.
Oh but how I loved seeing how Amy and Anthony are growing back close together! And may I say that his children are just too adorable! Of course, the huge elephant in the room must be addressed, and when the truth came out, I cannot say I was totally surprised by it… It warmed my heart to see how Amy tried to show Anthony that loosen up won’t be the end of the world. And then seeing what Anthony does afterwards, made my heart melt.
Both stories were so wonderful to read. The only ‘negative’ I can say, is that the stories were just too short! I would have loved to read more about these lovely women, and their love interests. But even if it was all too quickly over, I enjoyed reading every bit of it. And sometimes it’s the short stories that show us the importance of love and how fast it sometimes can go!
October 23, 2021
review to follow
November 24, 2021
Two entertaining novellas about love lost and love found during the Christmas season. Proving Christmas time is truly a magical time of year.
November 28, 2021
My review of Snow-Kissed Proposals is on my blog.
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https://quirkybookreads.wordpress.com...
December 10, 2021
Review to follow
December 15, 2021
2 charming Christmas tales
January 1, 2022
Detailed review to come!
April 21, 2023
Catchy and entertaining quick reads.
December 3, 2024
I loved the cosy vibes of these. Something about being snowed in near Christmas is so exciting. I really enjoyed these.
November 25, 2021
“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…..”
I am a bit of a cynical Scrooge when it comes to Christmas, but my goodness, even I am feeling all the festive magic after reading this joyful book. I am in love!!
I feel as though I have been waiting for this book without even knowing I was waiting for it. Two of my favourite historical authors together bring all the Christmas cheer and hope and joy of the season, with two beautifully charming stories which have warmed my slightly Scrooge-like heart.
Two short Christmas novellas are beautifully wrapped up with a big red glittery bow, tied with love and snow-flecked for extra festive charm. And that is just the cover!!
I have just realised how whimsical I am sounding, but it’s Christmas, I’m allowed to, right?
The first story is The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and it’s the perfect Christmassy enemies to lovers story, Fiona has run away, she is trekking through the Scottish wilderness to a friends home when she is come across by a rough, Whisky soaked, stubborn, rude and ridiculously handsome twinkly-eyed Scot. Who just happens to be the brother of her best friend. These two don’t exactly get off the best of starts, I always like a good head butting with characters but that soon fizzles from annoyance to friendship too much, much more.
I like how the author educates those of us (I mean me) who are terrible with pronouncing names, seriously I am awful I would have been calling Mhairie (Mary) if Jenni Fletcher hadn’t been kind enough to add the proper pronunciation in the authors note. Big thumbs up from this reader!!
Can I just take a moment to compose myself after ‘meeting’ the deliciously dishevelled Angus Drummond……deep sigh!!! That first glimpse of him is very Jamie Fraser, him looking all dirty and ruffled, I can almost hear that strong Scottish brogue while I read every time he opens his mouth. I do love a rugged Scotsman!
The second story is; Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes is a gorgeous second chance romance that can resonate with so many. Amy and Anthony were childhood sweethearts only for them to part ways, a parting which left ugly scars on both there was a lot of hurts which laid buried. Fifteen years later, both widowed, I love that these aren’t your typical young bucks/debutantes they are people who have experienced what life has thrown at them, they are older and wiser and fate decides that they need to be together.
This story is jammed with emotion, there is a lot of misunderstanding between Amy and Anthony they still hold those long-forgotten feelings from all those years before, once Amy takes the position of being his housekeeper those old buried feelings return to the surface. It’s the second chance that neither expected but both deserved that is they can but the hurt behind them and walk forward. Amy and Anthony are wonderful characters, you can’t help like them and will them to find their happiness.
I have to be honest and say that the settings in both stories did steal my attention away from the couples far more than it should have been stolen. I have always been drawn to both north Scotland and Derbyshire, the beauty, the history and the open spaces have always appealed to me, I have yet to visit either and I doubt I will see either anytime in the next forty years. But this book transported me to these magical places, Hobbes and Fletcher use their abundant and insightful knowledge and their mesmerising descriptive writing to bring the stories alive.
This little book is cute and cosy, it warms the cockles, it makes you want to be snowed in somewhere, sitting before a roaring fire with the dogs at your feet while comfort eating far too many Jaffa cakes. I may have just described how I actually read this, except being snowed in and the roaring fire but you get the gist.
Can I take a moment to share some serious cover love? I have so many heart eyes for this cover, it’s captivating and works beautifully with the stories within the pages. Even though I would say it reflects the first story; The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher far better, I see Angus and Fiona in the models. But, it really is beautiful!
Overall, these are two beautiful stories set around the festive season and believe me, both stories have all the seasonal cheer, with characters you becoming completely invested in and heroes you will fall head over heels in love with. You are whisked away to two dramatic and incredibly beautiful settings firstly to bonny Scotland and then to inspiring Derbyshire. What more could you want?
I am a bit of a cynical Scrooge when it comes to Christmas, but my goodness, even I am feeling all the festive magic after reading this joyful book. I am in love!!
I feel as though I have been waiting for this book without even knowing I was waiting for it. Two of my favourite historical authors together bring all the Christmas cheer and hope and joy of the season, with two beautifully charming stories which have warmed my slightly Scrooge-like heart.
Two short Christmas novellas are beautifully wrapped up with a big red glittery bow, tied with love and snow-flecked for extra festive charm. And that is just the cover!!
I have just realised how whimsical I am sounding, but it’s Christmas, I’m allowed to, right?
The first story is The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and it’s the perfect Christmassy enemies to lovers story, Fiona has run away, she is trekking through the Scottish wilderness to a friends home when she is come across by a rough, Whisky soaked, stubborn, rude and ridiculously handsome twinkly-eyed Scot. Who just happens to be the brother of her best friend. These two don’t exactly get off the best of starts, I always like a good head butting with characters but that soon fizzles from annoyance to friendship too much, much more.
I like how the author educates those of us (I mean me) who are terrible with pronouncing names, seriously I am awful I would have been calling Mhairie (Mary) if Jenni Fletcher hadn’t been kind enough to add the proper pronunciation in the authors note. Big thumbs up from this reader!!
Can I just take a moment to compose myself after ‘meeting’ the deliciously dishevelled Angus Drummond……deep sigh!!! That first glimpse of him is very Jamie Fraser, him looking all dirty and ruffled, I can almost hear that strong Scottish brogue while I read every time he opens his mouth. I do love a rugged Scotsman!
The second story is; Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes is a gorgeous second chance romance that can resonate with so many. Amy and Anthony were childhood sweethearts only for them to part ways, a parting which left ugly scars on both there was a lot of hurts which laid buried. Fifteen years later, both widowed, I love that these aren’t your typical young bucks/debutantes they are people who have experienced what life has thrown at them, they are older and wiser and fate decides that they need to be together.
This story is jammed with emotion, there is a lot of misunderstanding between Amy and Anthony they still hold those long-forgotten feelings from all those years before, once Amy takes the position of being his housekeeper those old buried feelings return to the surface. It’s the second chance that neither expected but both deserved that is they can but the hurt behind them and walk forward. Amy and Anthony are wonderful characters, you can’t help like them and will them to find their happiness.
I have to be honest and say that the settings in both stories did steal my attention away from the couples far more than it should have been stolen. I have always been drawn to both north Scotland and Derbyshire, the beauty, the history and the open spaces have always appealed to me, I have yet to visit either and I doubt I will see either anytime in the next forty years. But this book transported me to these magical places, Hobbes and Fletcher use their abundant and insightful knowledge and their mesmerising descriptive writing to bring the stories alive.
This little book is cute and cosy, it warms the cockles, it makes you want to be snowed in somewhere, sitting before a roaring fire with the dogs at your feet while comfort eating far too many Jaffa cakes. I may have just described how I actually read this, except being snowed in and the roaring fire but you get the gist.
Can I take a moment to share some serious cover love? I have so many heart eyes for this cover, it’s captivating and works beautifully with the stories within the pages. Even though I would say it reflects the first story; The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher far better, I see Angus and Fiona in the models. But, it really is beautiful!
Overall, these are two beautiful stories set around the festive season and believe me, both stories have all the seasonal cheer, with characters you becoming completely invested in and heroes you will fall head over heels in love with. You are whisked away to two dramatic and incredibly beautiful settings firstly to bonny Scotland and then to inspiring Derbyshire. What more could you want?
November 25, 2021
Two stories, one book. Two Christmassy stories in a historical romance genre. In The Christmas Runaway by Jenni Fletcher and In Their Snowbound Reunion by Elisabeth Hobbes. I love Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes' books, so I was very excited to see what these stories would bring. And... Get ready for the Holiday because this book will put you right back on that festive spirit.
A runaway woman, a handsome Scottish man. The all brother of her best friend love story. Jenni Fletcher bring us Fiona and Angus in a brilliant novella that as both romantic, exciting, fun and full of bickering and attraction.
Childhood sweethearts in a lovely romance. Elisabeth Hobbes brings us Amy and Anthony, in a story that talks about misunderstandings, second chances and love.
Both novellas had unique characters that I loves. Enemies to lovers and Second chances, both were amazing in the setting and time period of the book. I loved that in a way I could relate to the characters and that I could understand why things had happen.
Both authors were brilliant, and despite being very much independent stories, they complemented one another with their themes of Love, friendship, chances and changes. Plus the warmth of the story
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
A runaway woman, a handsome Scottish man. The all brother of her best friend love story. Jenni Fletcher bring us Fiona and Angus in a brilliant novella that as both romantic, exciting, fun and full of bickering and attraction.
Childhood sweethearts in a lovely romance. Elisabeth Hobbes brings us Amy and Anthony, in a story that talks about misunderstandings, second chances and love.
Both novellas had unique characters that I loves. Enemies to lovers and Second chances, both were amazing in the setting and time period of the book. I loved that in a way I could relate to the characters and that I could understand why things had happen.
Both authors were brilliant, and despite being very much independent stories, they complemented one another with their themes of Love, friendship, chances and changes. Plus the warmth of the story
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, Jenni Fletcher and Elisabeth Hobbes for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
December 7, 2021
First up...THE CHRISTMAS RUNAWAY.
Once I got past the Scottish brogue of Angus, I was in love, and our lady Fiona is hard to miss in her flashy hued colors, and when paired with her honesty infused tongue, she certainly makes an impression...and it was one I loved! I admire when authors write strong female characters, especially when the times they live in dictate that they should be quite the opposite. When you get a leading male that appreciates that as one of many beatific aspects of his potential match, it's heaven sent...hark the herald, and all that jazz, this is definitely one of those reads! Their ups and downs lead to a happily-ever-after eventually, but the close calls, missteps, and banter along the way are what make it truly enjoyable.
Secondly, we have...THEIR SNOWBOUND REUNION.
Amy and Anthony's story was one that I saw the fork in the road from a mile away, and yet, despite that fact, it didn't feel contrived. It was enjoyable watching them get to know each other again, even with the baggage they both carried. Seeing them let loose something amazing and in full color from the other was a gift. I especially liked the ice skating venture, and the indoor décor that stood witness to a reunion we never could quite hope against its passing. The eventual turn to family by book's end was just the ticket you were looking for.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
Once I got past the Scottish brogue of Angus, I was in love, and our lady Fiona is hard to miss in her flashy hued colors, and when paired with her honesty infused tongue, she certainly makes an impression...and it was one I loved! I admire when authors write strong female characters, especially when the times they live in dictate that they should be quite the opposite. When you get a leading male that appreciates that as one of many beatific aspects of his potential match, it's heaven sent...hark the herald, and all that jazz, this is definitely one of those reads! Their ups and downs lead to a happily-ever-after eventually, but the close calls, missteps, and banter along the way are what make it truly enjoyable.
Secondly, we have...THEIR SNOWBOUND REUNION.
Amy and Anthony's story was one that I saw the fork in the road from a mile away, and yet, despite that fact, it didn't feel contrived. It was enjoyable watching them get to know each other again, even with the baggage they both carried. Seeing them let loose something amazing and in full color from the other was a gift. I especially liked the ice skating venture, and the indoor décor that stood witness to a reunion we never could quite hope against its passing. The eventual turn to family by book's end was just the ticket you were looking for.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
November 25, 2021
'Snow-Kissed Proposals' is set in Scotland and Derbyshire, two festive novellas with independent heroines and wintry settings.
'The Christmas Runaway' is set in northeast Scotland, where Fiona's ill-considered winter trip leads to conflict, friendship and romance. The bleak and forbidding setting is the perfect place for Fiona and Angus to meet. Their relationship develops from enemies to friends and is full of witty banter and conflict right to the end.
'Their Snowbound Reunion' is set in Derbyshire and is a story of second chances and forgiveness. Amy and Anthony enjoyed a brief but ill-fated romance. When they meet again, there is still something between them. This is a lovely second chance romance with characters that are easy to empathise with and a happy ending.
Both these Victorian romances are engaging and the perfect book to read in front of a cosy fire.
I received a copy of this book from the authors in return for an honest review.
'The Christmas Runaway' is set in northeast Scotland, where Fiona's ill-considered winter trip leads to conflict, friendship and romance. The bleak and forbidding setting is the perfect place for Fiona and Angus to meet. Their relationship develops from enemies to friends and is full of witty banter and conflict right to the end.
'Their Snowbound Reunion' is set in Derbyshire and is a story of second chances and forgiveness. Amy and Anthony enjoyed a brief but ill-fated romance. When they meet again, there is still something between them. This is a lovely second chance romance with characters that are easy to empathise with and a happy ending.
Both these Victorian romances are engaging and the perfect book to read in front of a cosy fire.
I received a copy of this book from the authors in return for an honest review.
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