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Gaming Hell Christmas #1
Gaming Hell Christmas
GAMING HELL CHRISTMAS - VOLUME 1: Mysteries abound at the newest Hell in town.
A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter - Kathy L Wheeler
Miss Alexandra Blessing, the Duke of Winsome’s illegitimate daughter longs for anonymity and a home of her own where her younger half-siblings don’t commandeer every moment of her day. Escape is imminent—right after her family’s annual Christmas fete.
But Alexandra is missing from the ball, and Theodore Millburn must find her before he loses something important: his chance for love.
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure - Amanda McCabe
Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, after a year of lonely widowhood is ready for new love—and she knows exactly who she wants—her wild friend, the gorgeous William, Lord Deansley. She fears he doesn't want her, until they meet again at the exclusive, discreet gaming hell la Sous Rose, at Christmas.
Will it mean a future of love—or the end of all her dreams?
“Miss McCabe’s talent for lively characters and witty dialogue is always a winning combination.” ~ Romantic Times Reviews
A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter - Kathy L Wheeler
Miss Alexandra Blessing, the Duke of Winsome’s illegitimate daughter longs for anonymity and a home of her own where her younger half-siblings don’t commandeer every moment of her day. Escape is imminent—right after her family’s annual Christmas fete.
But Alexandra is missing from the ball, and Theodore Millburn must find her before he loses something important: his chance for love.
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure - Amanda McCabe
Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, after a year of lonely widowhood is ready for new love—and she knows exactly who she wants—her wild friend, the gorgeous William, Lord Deansley. She fears he doesn't want her, until they meet again at the exclusive, discreet gaming hell la Sous Rose, at Christmas.
Will it mean a future of love—or the end of all her dreams?
“Miss McCabe’s talent for lively characters and witty dialogue is always a winning combination.” ~ Romantic Times Reviews
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2021
83 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Kathy L. Wheeler
51 books203 followersKathy L Wheeler is an award winning author in her contemporary and historical romances that include suspenseful twists. Her current series Rebel Lords of London is now available beginning with
The Earl's Error,
. Number six, Captivated by His Countess is scheduled for March 7, 2023. :)
Follow Kathy at:
Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest ~ Bookbub ~ tiktok ~ Amazon ~ blog
Kathy L Wheeler loves the NFL, the NBA, musical theater (don't ask how her how many times she's seen Phantom of the Opera (12); or Wicked (7)), travel, (Europe, Grand Cayman, Mexico, All over the US), reading (practically a book a night), writing (15 books and counting) and karaoke (well....what can I say). She assists other authors in critiquing, formatting, and creating covers for their publishing dreams.
She writes contemporary and historical stories where the heroines save themselves and the heroes who honor their courage with suspense and humor.
She recently migrated from Oklahoma to the Pacific Northwest with her musically talented, lawyer husband, her adorable dog Angel (who lives up to her name...mostly) and their snooty cat (who is truly a snob), Carly.
Follow Kathy at:
Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest ~ Bookbub ~ tiktok ~ Amazon ~ blog
Kathy L Wheeler loves the NFL, the NBA, musical theater (don't ask how her how many times she's seen Phantom of the Opera (12); or Wicked (7)), travel, (Europe, Grand Cayman, Mexico, All over the US), reading (practically a book a night), writing (15 books and counting) and karaoke (well....what can I say). She assists other authors in critiquing, formatting, and creating covers for their publishing dreams.
She writes contemporary and historical stories where the heroines save themselves and the heroes who honor their courage with suspense and humor.
She recently migrated from Oklahoma to the Pacific Northwest with her musically talented, lawyer husband, her adorable dog Angel (who lives up to her name...mostly) and their snooty cat (who is truly a snob), Carly.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 5, 2021
Gaming Hell Christmas consists of two novellas, interconnected in a way because the heroines are friends but they have their own satisfying end.
I only knew one of the two authors who signed this book, I've already read and appreciated Amanda McCabe work in the past, while Kathy L. Wheeler was a great surprise.
A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter by Kathy L Wheeler:
Alexandra, the oldest daughter of the Duke of Winsome’s, wants to go to live by herself but her father doesn't let her. During a masquerade ball a charming man swept her away, making her live the most incredible and exciting night of her life that ended with a bet.
At the start of the story I sadly saw Alex and Theo like pawns in the hand of their families, and I adored when they finally break free and they begin to consider their own feelings and to make their own choices.
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure by Amanda McCabe:
Lady Ranstruther feels trapped even now that she is a widow, because her step son wants to deem her freedom, doesn't leaving her alone and trying to ruin her rapprochement with an old flame. Fortunately she isn't easily intimitaded and the Christmas time with all the festivities and balls will be a good distraction.
I cheered for Belle since the first chapter, she hasn't had a very happy life and now she really deserves some joyful times with her friends and Will. Belle and Will are perfect for each other, I've enjoyed to see them shyly approaching each other at the beginning and then to grow fond of each other becoming more and more daring.
I recommend to read this book because I loved the leading Ladies, they are funny and indipendent. I really hope that there will be other stories set at the La Sous Rose.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
December 2, 2021
This anthology treats the reader to two long novellas in one great book.
A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter by Kathy L Wheeler – 4 stars: As the illegitimate daughter of a duke, Miss Alexandra Blessing longs for her own home and she plans to make her wish come true, but what she didn’t realize is that someone wants the same thing, with her. Will Theodore Millburn be able to find Alexandra or has he waited too long? This was my first Kathy L. Wheeler book, but won’t be my last!
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure by Amanda McCabe – 4.5 stars: A chance meeting at la Sous Rose, an exclusive gaming hell, gives widow Annabel, Lady Ranstruther a second chance at love with a man she longed for, but who rejected her years ago. William, Lord Deansley has wanted Belle for years, and now that she is finally free, he won’t waste the opportunity that fate has given him.
Two well-written, well-paced novellas that are sure to delight!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter by Kathy L Wheeler – 4 stars: As the illegitimate daughter of a duke, Miss Alexandra Blessing longs for her own home and she plans to make her wish come true, but what she didn’t realize is that someone wants the same thing, with her. Will Theodore Millburn be able to find Alexandra or has he waited too long? This was my first Kathy L. Wheeler book, but won’t be my last!
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure by Amanda McCabe – 4.5 stars: A chance meeting at la Sous Rose, an exclusive gaming hell, gives widow Annabel, Lady Ranstruther a second chance at love with a man she longed for, but who rejected her years ago. William, Lord Deansley has wanted Belle for years, and now that she is finally free, he won’t waste the opportunity that fate has given him.
Two well-written, well-paced novellas that are sure to delight!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
December 6, 2021
****4.5 stars!****
Okay, okay, you got me *holds hands up*. I’ll admit it! I took one look at the book cover and knew I had to read it.
And do you want to know something? I was sucked in from the get-go.
Gaming Hell Christmas is Volume I in what I’m assuming (I know, I know, I hate to assume anything…) is a series about The Greensley Girls. That’s Miss Greensley’s School of Comportment for Young Ladies of Quality to thee and me. Friendships were forged here to last a lifetime.
First up in Volume I are Alex and Belle’s stories, A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter by Kathy L Wheeler and The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure by Amanda McCabe. An invitation to La Sous Rose, aka the new disreputable place to be, promises adventure and excitement. What’s the worst that could happen?
Alex and Theo’s story certainly packed a punch! Family loyalties are tested in a tale packed with drama, romance, suspense, intrigue, revenge, and heaps of steam that kept me riveted right to the end.
Talk about intense! These two were combustible.
My only grumble with Belle and Will’s story was that I wished it was longer (I’m greedy like that). Widowed at a young age, yet free at last from a loveless marriage, it’s Belle’s opportunity to finally be happy.
These two gave me all the ‘aww’ moments in an emotional and romantic tale.
I eagerly await the release of Volume II and more stories from within the walls of La Sous Rose and the mysterious Lady X. I have my theories about her… *taps nose*
Sometimes you have to defy convention in pursuit of your HEA!
Okay, okay, you got me *holds hands up*. I’ll admit it! I took one look at the book cover and knew I had to read it.
And do you want to know something? I was sucked in from the get-go.
Gaming Hell Christmas is Volume I in what I’m assuming (I know, I know, I hate to assume anything…) is a series about The Greensley Girls. That’s Miss Greensley’s School of Comportment for Young Ladies of Quality to thee and me. Friendships were forged here to last a lifetime.
First up in Volume I are Alex and Belle’s stories, A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter by Kathy L Wheeler and The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure by Amanda McCabe. An invitation to La Sous Rose, aka the new disreputable place to be, promises adventure and excitement. What’s the worst that could happen?
Alex and Theo’s story certainly packed a punch! Family loyalties are tested in a tale packed with drama, romance, suspense, intrigue, revenge, and heaps of steam that kept me riveted right to the end.
Talk about intense! These two were combustible.
My only grumble with Belle and Will’s story was that I wished it was longer (I’m greedy like that). Widowed at a young age, yet free at last from a loveless marriage, it’s Belle’s opportunity to finally be happy.
These two gave me all the ‘aww’ moments in an emotional and romantic tale.
I eagerly await the release of Volume II and more stories from within the walls of La Sous Rose and the mysterious Lady X. I have my theories about her… *taps nose*
Sometimes you have to defy convention in pursuit of your HEA!
December 3, 2021
🃏Gaming Hell Christmas 🃏
Volume 1
✒️ Kathy L Wheeler
https://www.facebook.com/KathyLWheeler/
✒️ Amanda McCabe
https://www.facebook.com/amandamccabe...
Release Date 12/01/2021
Publisher Chisel Imprint
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HGDJQB5/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
GAMING HELL CHRISTMAS - VOLUME 1: Mysteries abound at the newest Hell in town.
𝐴 𝐺𝑖𝑓𝑡 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐷𝑢𝑘𝑒’𝑠 𝐼𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑔𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝐷𝑎𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑒𝑟 by Kathy L Wheeler
Miss Alexandra Blessing, the Duke of Winsome’s illegitimate daughter longs for anonymity and a home of her own where her younger half-siblings don’t commandeer every moment of her day. Escape is imminent—right after her family’s annual Christmas fete.
But Alexandra is missing from the ball, and Theodore Millburn must find her before he loses something important: his chance for love.
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
Will their families’ history keep them apart …
This is a tale of revenge, orchestrated by a man guilty of many sins and wanting payback when he is the culprit.
I confess to have been felt a bit lost from here and there with the so many protagonists, it is a story told from multiple points of view, the main couple but all their friends and families.
The heroine is longing for more freedom than she is allowed as still living in her father’s household, so in some spite, she attends secretly a scandalous masquerade.
Theo is a pawn in his madman’s game, a piece to be used for his own need. Yet it is what he has known nearly his whole life. But as clues pile up, he begins to doubt the sounded of his uncle’s plan.
Even more when a woman made him question what he truly wants.
It is a fun if sometime confusing tale, all the characters are flawed, they made mistakes, deceive others, I much loved the Duchess, she is a most understanding and kind woman.
3.5 stars
𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑀𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑦 𝑊𝑖𝑑𝑜𝑤’𝑠 𝐶ℎ𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑠 𝐴𝑑𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 by Amanda McCabe
Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, after a year of lonely widowhood is ready for new love—and she knows exactly who she wants—her wild friend, the gorgeous William, Lord Deansley. She fears he doesn't want her, until they meet again at the exclusive, discreet gaming hell la Sous Rose, at Christmas.
Will it mean a future of love—or the end of all her dreams?
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
Will her fears hold her back …
I know the author for her Harlequin/ Mills&Boon releases, so I was quite curious about this new offering.
This one is a second chance at love. Belle has sacrificed at the altar of wealth, kind of sold to pay her father’s wrong choices.
She had to endure a much older spouse and spiteful stepson, now a widow, she wants to discover who she is really when not under the thumb of a domineering man.
Will has met Belle too late, someone has already stepped in and won her hand. So he avoided the woman he could not have he thought but as she is now out of mourning, he refuses to let her slip once more. But the lady appears quite elusive, even when he is certain she is as attracted to him than him.
A sweet and fun romance with a cute couple, a man determined to win the woman who has filled his dreams for many years and a woman who needs to find herself before envisaging anything else, can their different agendas collide in the right way.
4 stars
𝗚𝗟𝗢𝗕𝗔𝗟 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
Both stories have all the elements for a fun and entertaining read, and while they share a common timeline, I struggle to interconnect the shared parts.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes in both novellas.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CXBd0pCI...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
Volume 1
✒️ Kathy L Wheeler
https://www.facebook.com/KathyLWheeler/
✒️ Amanda McCabe
https://www.facebook.com/amandamccabe...
Release Date 12/01/2021
Publisher Chisel Imprint
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HGDJQB5/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
GAMING HELL CHRISTMAS - VOLUME 1: Mysteries abound at the newest Hell in town.
𝐴 𝐺𝑖𝑓𝑡 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐷𝑢𝑘𝑒’𝑠 𝐼𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑔𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝐷𝑎𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑒𝑟 by Kathy L Wheeler
Miss Alexandra Blessing, the Duke of Winsome’s illegitimate daughter longs for anonymity and a home of her own where her younger half-siblings don’t commandeer every moment of her day. Escape is imminent—right after her family’s annual Christmas fete.
But Alexandra is missing from the ball, and Theodore Millburn must find her before he loses something important: his chance for love.
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
Will their families’ history keep them apart …
This is a tale of revenge, orchestrated by a man guilty of many sins and wanting payback when he is the culprit.
I confess to have been felt a bit lost from here and there with the so many protagonists, it is a story told from multiple points of view, the main couple but all their friends and families.
The heroine is longing for more freedom than she is allowed as still living in her father’s household, so in some spite, she attends secretly a scandalous masquerade.
Theo is a pawn in his madman’s game, a piece to be used for his own need. Yet it is what he has known nearly his whole life. But as clues pile up, he begins to doubt the sounded of his uncle’s plan.
Even more when a woman made him question what he truly wants.
It is a fun if sometime confusing tale, all the characters are flawed, they made mistakes, deceive others, I much loved the Duchess, she is a most understanding and kind woman.
3.5 stars
𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑀𝑒𝑟𝑟𝑦 𝑊𝑖𝑑𝑜𝑤’𝑠 𝐶ℎ𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑠 𝐴𝑑𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 by Amanda McCabe
Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, after a year of lonely widowhood is ready for new love—and she knows exactly who she wants—her wild friend, the gorgeous William, Lord Deansley. She fears he doesn't want her, until they meet again at the exclusive, discreet gaming hell la Sous Rose, at Christmas.
Will it mean a future of love—or the end of all her dreams?
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
Will her fears hold her back …
I know the author for her Harlequin/ Mills&Boon releases, so I was quite curious about this new offering.
This one is a second chance at love. Belle has sacrificed at the altar of wealth, kind of sold to pay her father’s wrong choices.
She had to endure a much older spouse and spiteful stepson, now a widow, she wants to discover who she is really when not under the thumb of a domineering man.
Will has met Belle too late, someone has already stepped in and won her hand. So he avoided the woman he could not have he thought but as she is now out of mourning, he refuses to let her slip once more. But the lady appears quite elusive, even when he is certain she is as attracted to him than him.
A sweet and fun romance with a cute couple, a man determined to win the woman who has filled his dreams for many years and a woman who needs to find herself before envisaging anything else, can their different agendas collide in the right way.
4 stars
𝗚𝗟𝗢𝗕𝗔𝗟 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
Both stories have all the elements for a fun and entertaining read, and while they share a common timeline, I struggle to interconnect the shared parts.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes in both novellas.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CXBd0pCI...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
February 22, 2022
Historical romance fans will not want to miss Gaming Hell Christmas, a fun and flirty festive collection of two gripping novellas set in Georgian England from two very talented authors: Kathy L Wheeler and Amanda McCabe.
In Kathy L Wheeler’s A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter, Miss Alexandra Blessing would love nothing more than some time for herself. As the illegitimate daughter of a duke, Alexandra’s every waking minute is taken up by caring for her younger half-siblings and if there is one thing Alexandra wants more than anything else in the world is some peace and quiet to do what she pleases without somebody commandeering all of her time. Alas, it looks like Alexandra’s dearest wish will never come true, but might Theodore Millburn find her and give her everything she had always wanted which she had long given up on?
Theodore has long been in love with Alexandra and when she goes missing he vows to leave no stone unturned to find her. Theodore is determined to tell Alexandra that he is madly in love with her, but will he find her in time? Or has Alexandra disappeared from his life for good?
An entertaining and dramatic tale that packs plenty of emotional punch, Kathy L Wheeler’s A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter will keep readers hooked. Passionate, enthralling and full of twists and turns, historical romance fans will thoroughly enjoy Kathy L Wheeler’s contribution to this collection.
Amanda McCabe is a huge favourite of mine and The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure is another terrific and captivating read from this very gifted writer.
After being widowed last year, Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, is ready for a new adventure – and a new love. The time has come for her to unshackle herself from the past and to look forward and she has just the man in her sights to start this new phase of her life with: her gorgeous wild friend William, Lord Deansley. William is not like the other stuffed shirts of the Ton. He has an adventurous spirit and thumbs his nose at convention. Annabelle thinks that he is just the man for her -even if she is terrified that he does not reciprocate her feelings for him.
When they meet again at exclusive gaming hell La Sous Rose at Christmas, Annabelle decides to let go of her fears and insecurities and to go after who she wants. Will Annabelle and William finally get their happy ending this Christmas? Or is disappointment and regret going to continue to tear them apart?
Sweet, sensuous and sparkling, Amanda McCabe delights her many fans with The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure. A heartfelt and emotional tale about second chances, letting go of the past and finding happiness and grabbing it with both hands, The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure is an enchanting novella that tugs at the heartstrings and will leave readers uplifted and with a big smile on their face.
Kathy L Wheeler and Amanda McCabe are two very talented writers who have outdone themselves with this wonderful collection, Gaming Hell Christmas.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In Kathy L Wheeler’s A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter, Miss Alexandra Blessing would love nothing more than some time for herself. As the illegitimate daughter of a duke, Alexandra’s every waking minute is taken up by caring for her younger half-siblings and if there is one thing Alexandra wants more than anything else in the world is some peace and quiet to do what she pleases without somebody commandeering all of her time. Alas, it looks like Alexandra’s dearest wish will never come true, but might Theodore Millburn find her and give her everything she had always wanted which she had long given up on?
Theodore has long been in love with Alexandra and when she goes missing he vows to leave no stone unturned to find her. Theodore is determined to tell Alexandra that he is madly in love with her, but will he find her in time? Or has Alexandra disappeared from his life for good?
An entertaining and dramatic tale that packs plenty of emotional punch, Kathy L Wheeler’s A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter will keep readers hooked. Passionate, enthralling and full of twists and turns, historical romance fans will thoroughly enjoy Kathy L Wheeler’s contribution to this collection.
Amanda McCabe is a huge favourite of mine and The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure is another terrific and captivating read from this very gifted writer.
After being widowed last year, Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, is ready for a new adventure – and a new love. The time has come for her to unshackle herself from the past and to look forward and she has just the man in her sights to start this new phase of her life with: her gorgeous wild friend William, Lord Deansley. William is not like the other stuffed shirts of the Ton. He has an adventurous spirit and thumbs his nose at convention. Annabelle thinks that he is just the man for her -even if she is terrified that he does not reciprocate her feelings for him.
When they meet again at exclusive gaming hell La Sous Rose at Christmas, Annabelle decides to let go of her fears and insecurities and to go after who she wants. Will Annabelle and William finally get their happy ending this Christmas? Or is disappointment and regret going to continue to tear them apart?
Sweet, sensuous and sparkling, Amanda McCabe delights her many fans with The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure. A heartfelt and emotional tale about second chances, letting go of the past and finding happiness and grabbing it with both hands, The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure is an enchanting novella that tugs at the heartstrings and will leave readers uplifted and with a big smile on their face.
Kathy L Wheeler and Amanda McCabe are two very talented writers who have outdone themselves with this wonderful collection, Gaming Hell Christmas.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 3, 2021
This is the first volume of Gaming Hell Christmas, stories about six women who attended Miss Greensley's School as young women, now older, out in society, and making decisions about the rest of their lives. It includes two novellas, the first featuring Miss Alexandra Blessing, beloved but illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Winsome, and the second about her dear friend, Annabelle, the widowed Lady Ranstruther.
Alexandra has lived with her father and his family since she was nine, and has six younger siblings. The two sisters still at home give her little peace, including happily disregarding the privacy of her own bedchamber. At 28, she doesn't expect to marry, but does want a home of her own.
Annabelle, after a year of widowhood following the death of her elderly and perhaps not very kind husband, Annabelle is ready for love and a happier life.
The stories take place over the same period of time, the Christmas season of 1796. These are Georgian stories, not Regencies, and while the legal status of women isn't any different, socially, they have just a little bit more freedom than they will in the Regency era. Thus, the ladies can, if discreet and careful, visit the exclusive gaming hell, la Sous Rose. And of course they do.
Alexandra's story focuses on the one hand, on Alexandra's desire, not to marry, but to have her own, quiet home. The Duke finds this shocking, but he does love her and want her to be happy. Yet intertwined with this is the death of the duke's first wife, assaulted and murdered, and whether or not the man hanged for the crime was actually the man guilty of it. At la Sous Rose, Alexandra meets Mr. Theodore Milburn, who has been raised by his uncle to believe the duke ruthlessly framed Theodore's innocent father, and that it's his duty to get revenge. The plan is to compromise one of the duke's daughters, to ruin her or force a marriage. It's too bad that Alexandra and Theodore Milburn find each other so attractive; surely this can't end well, right?
Annabelle's story follows her desire to find real love, and the determination of her stepson--years older than her--to take from her the dower inheritance she has from her husband, his father. He insists she and her father defrauded his father. Meanwhile, she meets again with a neighbor with property near her late husband's country property--William, Lord Deansley. Will Peter manage to ruin and impoverish her before she has a chance to find real happiness?
They're both enjoyable, Christmas season, historical romances, and the recurring characters helps build a sense of texture and reality--even if I'm not sure the intertwined timeline really works quite right. Regardless, I enjoyed both stories, and recommend them. There's also, of course, more coming in future volumes.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Alexandra has lived with her father and his family since she was nine, and has six younger siblings. The two sisters still at home give her little peace, including happily disregarding the privacy of her own bedchamber. At 28, she doesn't expect to marry, but does want a home of her own.
Annabelle, after a year of widowhood following the death of her elderly and perhaps not very kind husband, Annabelle is ready for love and a happier life.
The stories take place over the same period of time, the Christmas season of 1796. These are Georgian stories, not Regencies, and while the legal status of women isn't any different, socially, they have just a little bit more freedom than they will in the Regency era. Thus, the ladies can, if discreet and careful, visit the exclusive gaming hell, la Sous Rose. And of course they do.
Alexandra's story focuses on the one hand, on Alexandra's desire, not to marry, but to have her own, quiet home. The Duke finds this shocking, but he does love her and want her to be happy. Yet intertwined with this is the death of the duke's first wife, assaulted and murdered, and whether or not the man hanged for the crime was actually the man guilty of it. At la Sous Rose, Alexandra meets Mr. Theodore Milburn, who has been raised by his uncle to believe the duke ruthlessly framed Theodore's innocent father, and that it's his duty to get revenge. The plan is to compromise one of the duke's daughters, to ruin her or force a marriage. It's too bad that Alexandra and Theodore Milburn find each other so attractive; surely this can't end well, right?
Annabelle's story follows her desire to find real love, and the determination of her stepson--years older than her--to take from her the dower inheritance she has from her husband, his father. He insists she and her father defrauded his father. Meanwhile, she meets again with a neighbor with property near her late husband's country property--William, Lord Deansley. Will Peter manage to ruin and impoverish her before she has a chance to find real happiness?
They're both enjoyable, Christmas season, historical romances, and the recurring characters helps build a sense of texture and reality--even if I'm not sure the intertwined timeline really works quite right. Regardless, I enjoyed both stories, and recommend them. There's also, of course, more coming in future volumes.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
January 22, 2022
Enter the exciting new world of the Sous Rose, a new place in town with a mysterious owner no one knows.
At a masked ball, Alexandra visits with her friends from her girls’ school. They're enjoying the atmosphere, the excitement. But then, Alex, the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Winsome has to hide, though, when her father arrives. She disappears with the help of a handsome stranger, Theodore Millburn. Feeling drawn to the man, she knows his family is linked to her father through tragedy, so she doesn't give away her name.
Theo, meanwhile, is intrigued by the statuesque beauty, but he has plans of his own. His father was executed for a murder he did not commit, and the daughter of the Duke of Winsome would have to pay the price. The legitimate daughter, Sophie, that is. Until he falls for Alex...
But when he realises who she is, both discover that there may be more to the murder from long ago than is known. This sends them into the path of danger.
At the same event, Belle, Alex's best friend, meets a neighbour from her late husband's estate – Will, a man she felt drawn to before. Now that her year as a widow is past, will they finally be allowed to come together?
Gaming Hell Christmas is the first in a series of short stories / novellas set against the backdrop of the exciting new venue in town. No one knows the owner, which is a mystery that weaves through both stories.
Alex and Theo's story is over twice as long as Belle's. It's an intriguing mix of romance, a woman in search of her independence, and an old murder mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The frisson between the two headstrong characters is engaging, and the pace never slows down. Plenty of twists and turns in this romantic adventure.
Belle's story, however, was meant to be connected, but it was tricky due to Alex's adventures following their visit to the Sous Rose. The timeline didn't really fit, and we missed some of Belle's reactions in Alex's story. There were a few hints, but for me, the connection wasn't fleshed out properly, sadly. Belle and Will deserved a longer outing too. Their story was quite short. I liked both characters, but it felt a bit rushed to me. But as I had an ARC, some of these points may have been resolved in the meantime.
I guess it was tricky writing about the same characters at the same time, starting in the same place – an ambitious feat nonetheless. Both authors deserve our respect for attempting something so challenging.
Gaming Hell Christmas is intriguing, full of romantic sizzles, mystery, and adventure. It's also about friendship and trust, and about women forging their own destinies within the constraints of the times. I'm looking forward to reading more about the Sous Rose, and those that gather there.
Two delightful stories with memorable characters. Well worth the read!
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
At a masked ball, Alexandra visits with her friends from her girls’ school. They're enjoying the atmosphere, the excitement. But then, Alex, the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Winsome has to hide, though, when her father arrives. She disappears with the help of a handsome stranger, Theodore Millburn. Feeling drawn to the man, she knows his family is linked to her father through tragedy, so she doesn't give away her name.
Theo, meanwhile, is intrigued by the statuesque beauty, but he has plans of his own. His father was executed for a murder he did not commit, and the daughter of the Duke of Winsome would have to pay the price. The legitimate daughter, Sophie, that is. Until he falls for Alex...
But when he realises who she is, both discover that there may be more to the murder from long ago than is known. This sends them into the path of danger.
At the same event, Belle, Alex's best friend, meets a neighbour from her late husband's estate – Will, a man she felt drawn to before. Now that her year as a widow is past, will they finally be allowed to come together?
Gaming Hell Christmas is the first in a series of short stories / novellas set against the backdrop of the exciting new venue in town. No one knows the owner, which is a mystery that weaves through both stories.
Alex and Theo's story is over twice as long as Belle's. It's an intriguing mix of romance, a woman in search of her independence, and an old murder mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The frisson between the two headstrong characters is engaging, and the pace never slows down. Plenty of twists and turns in this romantic adventure.
Belle's story, however, was meant to be connected, but it was tricky due to Alex's adventures following their visit to the Sous Rose. The timeline didn't really fit, and we missed some of Belle's reactions in Alex's story. There were a few hints, but for me, the connection wasn't fleshed out properly, sadly. Belle and Will deserved a longer outing too. Their story was quite short. I liked both characters, but it felt a bit rushed to me. But as I had an ARC, some of these points may have been resolved in the meantime.
I guess it was tricky writing about the same characters at the same time, starting in the same place – an ambitious feat nonetheless. Both authors deserve our respect for attempting something so challenging.
Gaming Hell Christmas is intriguing, full of romantic sizzles, mystery, and adventure. It's also about friendship and trust, and about women forging their own destinies within the constraints of the times. I'm looking forward to reading more about the Sous Rose, and those that gather there.
Two delightful stories with memorable characters. Well worth the read!
Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed are my own.
December 27, 2021
…Mystery abounds at the new Hell in town in “Gaming Hell Christmas”, written by Kathy L. Wheeler and Amanda McCabe, published by Chisel Imprint.
It is 1796 London, where women exist under the thumbs of men—be it their fathers, husbands, or any male who feels he knows what’s best. Whether from the working class, the desperately poor or royalty, women have few things to call their own—including the right to direct their own lives—and fight a daily battle to maintain the few things they achieve on their own.
After receiving a select invitation The Greensley Girls, life-long friends and confidantes from school, gather at la Sous Rose, the newest gaming hall for an evening of fun and perhaps a bit of mystery, only to discover the answer to their dreams.
In A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter, Kathy L. Wheeler introduces Alexandra Blessing who only wants to live in her own home, away from the endless demands and expectations of her spoiled half-siblings. Enter Theodore Millburn whose goal in life is to destroy Alex’s father, the Duke of Winsome. Expectations are low when Alex and Theo first meet; together they start out on an adventure where each’s life-long dreams are achieved with the end rewards particularly satisfying. A special aspect of this delightful story is author Wheeler’s special talent for inventing and developing multi-layered, inspired characters.
In The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure, Amanda McCabe introduces Anabel Christie, dowager Lady Ranstruther, just out of a year’s period of mourning. Free at last of a much older, not so cherished husband, Belle wants only to live her life they way she wants, free of the machinations of her stepson who covets not only her person but the limited funds and property she can legally claim as her own. Enter William, Lord Deansley. The two came together in a brief, intriguing interlude years before—and neither has been able to forget the embers that were stirred. Author McCabe gifts the reader with a special ability for describing period costumes, speech patterns and settings to a degree the reader is drawn in immediately.
On a scale of 1-5, Gaming Hell Christmas deserves a 7.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
It is 1796 London, where women exist under the thumbs of men—be it their fathers, husbands, or any male who feels he knows what’s best. Whether from the working class, the desperately poor or royalty, women have few things to call their own—including the right to direct their own lives—and fight a daily battle to maintain the few things they achieve on their own.
After receiving a select invitation The Greensley Girls, life-long friends and confidantes from school, gather at la Sous Rose, the newest gaming hall for an evening of fun and perhaps a bit of mystery, only to discover the answer to their dreams.
In A Gift for the Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter, Kathy L. Wheeler introduces Alexandra Blessing who only wants to live in her own home, away from the endless demands and expectations of her spoiled half-siblings. Enter Theodore Millburn whose goal in life is to destroy Alex’s father, the Duke of Winsome. Expectations are low when Alex and Theo first meet; together they start out on an adventure where each’s life-long dreams are achieved with the end rewards particularly satisfying. A special aspect of this delightful story is author Wheeler’s special talent for inventing and developing multi-layered, inspired characters.
In The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure, Amanda McCabe introduces Anabel Christie, dowager Lady Ranstruther, just out of a year’s period of mourning. Free at last of a much older, not so cherished husband, Belle wants only to live her life they way she wants, free of the machinations of her stepson who covets not only her person but the limited funds and property she can legally claim as her own. Enter William, Lord Deansley. The two came together in a brief, intriguing interlude years before—and neither has been able to forget the embers that were stirred. Author McCabe gifts the reader with a special ability for describing period costumes, speech patterns and settings to a degree the reader is drawn in immediately.
On a scale of 1-5, Gaming Hell Christmas deserves a 7.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
December 3, 2021
A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter - Kathy L Wheeler
Alexandra believes due to her age she’s missed the boat when it comes to marriage, all she really wants is a home of her own so she can have some peace and quiet, away from her half-siblings! When she goes to the new gaming hell la Sous Rose, she meets Theodore Millburn whom she has a passionate encounter with, leaving them both head over heels for each other. There is a big twist that both Alex and Theodore don’t see coming and it could ruin everything for them. Romance, intrigue, danger and a murder mystery await in A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter.
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure - Amanda McCabe
Annabelle is a widow, it is finally time for her to enjoy a bit of freedom and perhaps find true love. However, her horrible stepson has other ideas when he threatens her ability to enjoy her new life. When she runs into the charming William at gaming hell la Sous Rose, who she has a history with, sparks are reignited, but will they get their happily ever after?
This is the first volume of stories featuring six friends who all first met at school. Set in the Georgian era, each story follows a different friend, and their stories take place alongside each other. I liked how fiercely loyal their friendships were and how different each of their personalities was. Although, I found the number of friends a little distracting at first, because I kept forgetting who was who! However, once I got into the book and got to know all the characters, I really enjoyed it. I loved the attention to detail and all the historical research that had clearly gone into writing the book, such as the white face paint, the outfits, rouge and hair powder. Gaming Hell Christmas - Vol 1, was a very enjoyable book, and I am looking forward to the next volume!
Alexandra believes due to her age she’s missed the boat when it comes to marriage, all she really wants is a home of her own so she can have some peace and quiet, away from her half-siblings! When she goes to the new gaming hell la Sous Rose, she meets Theodore Millburn whom she has a passionate encounter with, leaving them both head over heels for each other. There is a big twist that both Alex and Theodore don’t see coming and it could ruin everything for them. Romance, intrigue, danger and a murder mystery await in A Gift for the Duke's Illegitimate Daughter.
The Merry Widow's Christmas Adventure - Amanda McCabe
Annabelle is a widow, it is finally time for her to enjoy a bit of freedom and perhaps find true love. However, her horrible stepson has other ideas when he threatens her ability to enjoy her new life. When she runs into the charming William at gaming hell la Sous Rose, who she has a history with, sparks are reignited, but will they get their happily ever after?
This is the first volume of stories featuring six friends who all first met at school. Set in the Georgian era, each story follows a different friend, and their stories take place alongside each other. I liked how fiercely loyal their friendships were and how different each of their personalities was. Although, I found the number of friends a little distracting at first, because I kept forgetting who was who! However, once I got into the book and got to know all the characters, I really enjoyed it. I loved the attention to detail and all the historical research that had clearly gone into writing the book, such as the white face paint, the outfits, rouge and hair powder. Gaming Hell Christmas - Vol 1, was a very enjoyable book, and I am looking forward to the next volume!
December 18, 2021
Two friends, a gaming hell, and an unforgettable Christmas
A Gift For The Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter – Kathy L. Wheeler
Alexandra Blessing is the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Winsome. However, despite society’s standards, she has been accepted by her father, and even better, she is living with him and his wife and half – siblings. But privacy and her own place is something Alex really longs for, especially when her younger half – siblings need her every time of the day. When one night, she goes with her best friends to a masked gaming hell, she doesn’t know that meeting Theodore Millburn will change her whole life and everything she thought to know…
The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure – Amanda McCabe
Now that Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, has been a widow for a year, she is ready to take of the cloak of mourning. But putting her loveless marriage behind her is easier said than done, as her stepson keeps harassing her, threatening her to take everything from her. And then there is her handsome neighbour William, Lord Deansley. She has always found him very attracted but never gave into temptation. Now that she is a single woman again, could William have the same feelings as her? According their meeting at the exclusive gaming Hell La Sous Rose, he surely does!
What I loved about these two stories, is that the female characters are very good friends since childhood. They have each other’s back no matter what and understand each other with just one look. And I also appreciated that even if these are two different tales, they take place at the same time and we get to see occasionally the same event through different eyes.
Maybe Alex’ story was the most surprising one. First of all, I found it very sweet to see how Alex, despite her being illegitimate, has been truly accepted by her family and isn’t being treated less compared to her siblings. Also her stepmother truly loves her as her own.
I thought it would be a ‘simple’ story, where two people fall in love, and after fighting shortly against all odds, they get their happily ever after. And yes, Alex and Theodore quickly have a passionate encounter and feelings are growing rather fast.
But there are also a few mysteries that our main characters are not aware of. As a reader, you have a hunch about what is going on, but that didn’t spoil reading for me at all!
(Anna)belle’s story was a shorter one compared to Alex’. And while I understood that there was already some history between her and William, I would have loved to see just a bit more! Belle knows what/who she wants, but she also wants to enjoy her freedom, now that she finally can do as she pleases. And that was something I understood so well, seeing how young she was when she got married. But of course, when love is involved…
In her tale there is not that much of a mystery going on, rather a bully who doesn’t want Belle to enjoy life as earned. But when William appears as a knight in shining armour, I liked the man even more than I already did!
I enjoyed reading about these two women, wanting their own freedom, finding love ‘despite’ their status in society. The friendship between these women, and their other friends, was something to be jealous of, because it stands the test of time, even if all the women couldn’t be more different.
The other friends made me also very curious for their tale and I am also very intrigued and want to know who the mysterious Lady X is!
A Gift For The Duke’s Illegitimate Daughter – Kathy L. Wheeler
Alexandra Blessing is the illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Winsome. However, despite society’s standards, she has been accepted by her father, and even better, she is living with him and his wife and half – siblings. But privacy and her own place is something Alex really longs for, especially when her younger half – siblings need her every time of the day. When one night, she goes with her best friends to a masked gaming hell, she doesn’t know that meeting Theodore Millburn will change her whole life and everything she thought to know…
The Merry Widow’s Christmas Adventure – Amanda McCabe
Now that Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther, has been a widow for a year, she is ready to take of the cloak of mourning. But putting her loveless marriage behind her is easier said than done, as her stepson keeps harassing her, threatening her to take everything from her. And then there is her handsome neighbour William, Lord Deansley. She has always found him very attracted but never gave into temptation. Now that she is a single woman again, could William have the same feelings as her? According their meeting at the exclusive gaming Hell La Sous Rose, he surely does!
What I loved about these two stories, is that the female characters are very good friends since childhood. They have each other’s back no matter what and understand each other with just one look. And I also appreciated that even if these are two different tales, they take place at the same time and we get to see occasionally the same event through different eyes.
Maybe Alex’ story was the most surprising one. First of all, I found it very sweet to see how Alex, despite her being illegitimate, has been truly accepted by her family and isn’t being treated less compared to her siblings. Also her stepmother truly loves her as her own.
I thought it would be a ‘simple’ story, where two people fall in love, and after fighting shortly against all odds, they get their happily ever after. And yes, Alex and Theodore quickly have a passionate encounter and feelings are growing rather fast.
But there are also a few mysteries that our main characters are not aware of. As a reader, you have a hunch about what is going on, but that didn’t spoil reading for me at all!
(Anna)belle’s story was a shorter one compared to Alex’. And while I understood that there was already some history between her and William, I would have loved to see just a bit more! Belle knows what/who she wants, but she also wants to enjoy her freedom, now that she finally can do as she pleases. And that was something I understood so well, seeing how young she was when she got married. But of course, when love is involved…
In her tale there is not that much of a mystery going on, rather a bully who doesn’t want Belle to enjoy life as earned. But when William appears as a knight in shining armour, I liked the man even more than I already did!
I enjoyed reading about these two women, wanting their own freedom, finding love ‘despite’ their status in society. The friendship between these women, and their other friends, was something to be jealous of, because it stands the test of time, even if all the women couldn’t be more different.
The other friends made me also very curious for their tale and I am also very intrigued and want to know who the mysterious Lady X is!
December 30, 2023
I want the thank Kathy L. Wheeler and Amanda McCade, authors and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the eBook Kindle copy of Gaming Hell Christmas ~ The Gift & The Merry Widow's ~ Volume 1 that I won in the Giveaway.
In The Gift by Kathy L. Wheeler, Miss Alexandra Blessings is the ward of her father the Duke and with six siblings wishes for a place of her own where she can enjoy peace and quiet. What she didn't expect was to meet Theodore Millburn on a nigh out with her friends to a new gaming hell in London and find him interesting, fun and a man she felt comfortable with.
A scheme to hurt her family, a deranged man seeking revenge, a return of her mother to her life and a kidnapping and rescue brings excitement to the plot. The romance was unconventional for the 1790's in London with interesting friends and family of Alexandra being supportive to the young couple, despite what the ton or social conventions of the time expected of courting couples.
The Merry Widow's Christmas by Amanda McCade is the story of Alex's friend Belle and Will as they find happiness and she finds protection from her wicked step-son of her late husband.
Both stories happen over Christmas and show great details to the times, dress and social expectations or lack of freedom for women.
In The Gift by Kathy L. Wheeler, Miss Alexandra Blessings is the ward of her father the Duke and with six siblings wishes for a place of her own where she can enjoy peace and quiet. What she didn't expect was to meet Theodore Millburn on a nigh out with her friends to a new gaming hell in London and find him interesting, fun and a man she felt comfortable with.
A scheme to hurt her family, a deranged man seeking revenge, a return of her mother to her life and a kidnapping and rescue brings excitement to the plot. The romance was unconventional for the 1790's in London with interesting friends and family of Alexandra being supportive to the young couple, despite what the ton or social conventions of the time expected of courting couples.
The Merry Widow's Christmas by Amanda McCade is the story of Alex's friend Belle and Will as they find happiness and she finds protection from her wicked step-son of her late husband.
Both stories happen over Christmas and show great details to the times, dress and social expectations or lack of freedom for women.
January 18, 2022
I'd never read either author but enjoyed each. I thought this would be two-books-in-one, but the first was two-thirds long. It was by Kathy Wheeler entitled A GIFT FOR THE DUKE's ILLEGITIMATE DAUGHTER and it was a Doozy! I figured with that title it wouldn't be a fairy maiden story and I was right! The word 'f*cking' was actually used. (Was hoping for 'p*nis' in place of 'c*ck' BUT it wasn't 'turgid' &/or 'manhood' so Equality still moves forward.) The second story, The MERRY WIDOW's CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE by Kathy Wheeler was daring but only in terms of the time period- and my life. Still enjoyable! RECOMMENDED.
*The two heroines were friends from school but a different author writing 'their' story was a genius move I applaud. Wonder if the other Girlfriends will be written by these same authors or others. Want to read about the otherGirl Women.
*The two heroines were friends from school but a different author writing 'their' story was a genius move I applaud. Wonder if the other Girlfriends will be written by these same authors or others. Want to read about the other
December 24, 2021
The first story in this 2 novella book gets 3 stars. Other than several minor editing errors it was decent, I think as a fully fleshed out full length novel it could be really good.
Spoilers below
Now the second story was all over the place. First it seemed like la Sous Rose was new (which tracked with the first book) but than it was spoken of in a passage as if it had been around for years.
The conversation between the friends in the ballroom is slightly changed from the first story, but not significantly.
The Waltz. From the friends initial conversation it seems to be a new dance and not seen in the ballrooms of the peerage. But a short time later, Belke mentions which man she's going to dance with based on him being a wonderful waltz partner.
Belle and Will's conversation on the balcony seems to make no sense. "... These many months on my own." What? They shared one kiss 2 years ago. Will speaks as if they were courting and he walked away. She was already married. Also, at the beginning of this scene I believe Will is referred to a Jaime.
At this point I stopped reading.
Spoilers below
Now the second story was all over the place. First it seemed like la Sous Rose was new (which tracked with the first book) but than it was spoken of in a passage as if it had been around for years.
The conversation between the friends in the ballroom is slightly changed from the first story, but not significantly.
The Waltz. From the friends initial conversation it seems to be a new dance and not seen in the ballrooms of the peerage. But a short time later, Belke mentions which man she's going to dance with based on him being a wonderful waltz partner.
Belle and Will's conversation on the balcony seems to make no sense. "... These many months on my own." What? They shared one kiss 2 years ago. Will speaks as if they were courting and he walked away. She was already married. Also, at the beginning of this scene I believe Will is referred to a Jaime.
At this point I stopped reading.
November 11, 2025
Ordinarily, this die-hard contemporary romantic suspense/political thriller devotee wouldn’t be caught dead reading a romance populated by dry as dust characters constrained by the stagnant and rigid rules of Georgian England. But…during an afternoon by a roaring fire, our favorite adult beverage at hand, we discovered two fun, fast-paced romances set in London’s gaming hells during the Christmas season. This looks like a series that is based on the adventures of eight girls who became fast, loyal friends while attending Lady Greensley’s School of Comportment for Young Ladies of Quality—and the men who come to love them to be an adventure with each succeeding story.
Volume 1 is loaded with fun, lively characters who literally jump off the pages, and features romance that is sensual and real. The gorgeous setting is described in detail right down to the hovering servants, street wise miscreants, and a few ne’er do wells. Enjoy this one—it’s a beauty.
Based on a scale of 1-5, Gaming Hell Christmas, Vol 1 merits a 7.
Veronica Lynch,Wild Women Reviews
Volume 1 is loaded with fun, lively characters who literally jump off the pages, and features romance that is sensual and real. The gorgeous setting is described in detail right down to the hovering servants, street wise miscreants, and a few ne’er do wells. Enjoy this one—it’s a beauty.
Based on a scale of 1-5, Gaming Hell Christmas, Vol 1 merits a 7.
Veronica Lynch,Wild Women Reviews
December 3, 2021
This book was a nice, easy cozy read which I enjoyed.
There are 2 different stories in the book both by different authors and based on different main characters. However, both of the main characters feature in both books which I didn’t expect but I find it a nice added touch.
I liked both main characters in each book. Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther had a difficult marriage and after a year of being a widower was hoping to find a new love.
Alexandra longs for a home of her own and she may have the chance with someone who wishes for the same.
I would definitely read another novel by these authors and I am looking forward to the next one in this series also. Thank you to the tour organiser and publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There are 2 different stories in the book both by different authors and based on different main characters. However, both of the main characters feature in both books which I didn’t expect but I find it a nice added touch.
I liked both main characters in each book. Annabelle, Lady Ranstruther had a difficult marriage and after a year of being a widower was hoping to find a new love.
Alexandra longs for a home of her own and she may have the chance with someone who wishes for the same.
I would definitely read another novel by these authors and I am looking forward to the next one in this series also. Thank you to the tour organiser and publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2025
One out of two
The first story was really good. Nice plot, good character development, fun scenes. I didn't catch any errors in that's one.
However, the second story was trash. This writer needs a better editor and proofreader. They're throwing together stories but not paying attention. ChatGPT, Claude, abs CoPilot can only take you so far. The dog went from a Pomeranian to a pug and back to a Pomeranianin the span of 3 pages. Belle was called Rose 3-4 times, the wrong pronoun was used 7-8 times, and Will was Jamie 2-3 times. All of those errors show the disrespect this 'author' has for the reader. I'm glad I didn't pay for this volume and the 3 stars are for the first story only. Do better.
The first story was really good. Nice plot, good character development, fun scenes. I didn't catch any errors in that's one.
However, the second story was trash. This writer needs a better editor and proofreader. They're throwing together stories but not paying attention. ChatGPT, Claude, abs CoPilot can only take you so far. The dog went from a Pomeranian to a pug and back to a Pomeranianin the span of 3 pages. Belle was called Rose 3-4 times, the wrong pronoun was used 7-8 times, and Will was Jamie 2-3 times. All of those errors show the disrespect this 'author' has for the reader. I'm glad I didn't pay for this volume and the 3 stars are for the first story only. Do better.
December 22, 2021
An absolutely fantastic book. The characters were really well fleshed out. The world within these pages was great and also with a touch of whimsy.
I loved that there was a mystery included. Just an absolutely wonderful Christmas book!
I absolutely recommend this book!
I loved that there was a mystery included. Just an absolutely wonderful Christmas book!
I absolutely recommend this book!
November 12, 2025
Please see individual stories for review.
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November 4, 2021Yay! Our Gaming Hell Christmas is in the final proofread stage and set for a GoodReads giveaway beginning November 3 for 100 ebook copies. November 27th! Sign up to win.
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