Sunflower Season

by Annabelle Anders, Sabrina Jeffries, Christi Caldwell

SUNFLOWER SEASON is a charity collection featuring stories (some never-been-published and some old favorites) by over 70 -- that's right -- SEVENTY of your favorite Historical Romance authors. ALL royalties will be donated to humanitarian relief in Ukraine.

Featuring novellas, stories and novels by Christi Caldwell, Amalie Howard, Royaline Sing, Bree Wolf, Virginia Heath, Caroline Lee, Golden Angel, Nicole Locke, Natasha Blackthorne, Sabrina Jeffries, Lenora Bell, Amy Quinton, Janna MacGregor, Annabelle Anders, Rachel Ann Smith, Eva Devon, Sandra Sookoo, Tabetha Waite, Diana Bold, Sadie Bosque, Cheryl Bolen, Erica Monroe, Kate Bateman, Cara Maxwell, Tracy Sumner, Jenna Jaxon, Jane Charles, Eliza Knight, Mariah Stone, Robyn DeHart, Wendy LaCapra, Hildie McQueen, Madeline Martin, Amy Rose Bennett, Ava Bond, Piper Huguley, Fenna Edgewood, Kathryn Le Veque, Caroline Linden, Nancy Yeager, Dawn Brower, Celeste Barclay, T.L. Christianson, Lauren Royal, Michele Pollock Dalton, Glynnis Campbell, Rose Pearson, Erica Ridley, Sydney Jane Baily, Deb Marlowe, Rebecca Paula, Amanda Mariel, Christine Sterling, Ava Stone, Lauren Smith, Sawyer Quinn, Caroline Warfield, Jessica A Clements, Jude Knight, Anna St. Claire, Tamara Gill, Gina Conkle, Charlie Lane, Terri Brisbin, Bronwen Evans, Emmanuelle de Maupassant, Merry Farmer, Tammy Andresen, Cecelia Mecca, Meredith Bond, Christine Donovan, Lana Williams, Carrie Lomax, Eve Pendle, Bethany Bennett, Bianca Blythe, Maggie Dallen, and Samara Parish.

Again, ALL proceeds will be donated to Ukrainian relief efforts. We are not affiliated with any charities but are only doing what we can to provide help for the innocent people who've lost so much as a result of this senseless tragedy.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Anthologies, Historical Fiction, Historical, Novella, Amazon

6286 pages, ebook

First published June 6, 2022

About the author

Married to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.

After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car. 

At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.

And then the energy market dropped off.

And then my dog died.

I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.

Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!

To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!

www.annabelleanders.com
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Reviews

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to start with this super douper bumper anthology. It’s an absolute must read for any historical romance reader. Some of the stories have been published before but there are quite a number of new stories & those lovely ladies have listed the new titles at the beginning – so I decided to start with the new

A Soldier’s Dream – Annabelle Anders & Janna MacGregor 4 stars
Captain Michael Harrington has survived the wars against Napoleon & after Waterloo returns to England & to his fiancé Charlotte Pratt. Her letters have helped keep his spirits up for almost three years but unbeknownst to him it’s been her younger sister writing the letters. A lovely short story where the sisters fall in love with the wrong men. How will four young people find their HEA?

Message from a Lady – Jane Charles 4 stars
Mr. Peter Storm has only ever loved Lady Johanna Knight & she loves him. However her grandfather will only allow Johanna to marry a title & Peter was the fourth son of an Earl. When Johanna faces danger, Peter realizes that more than his heart is at stake. It is up to him to save her, even if she will be denied him in the end. Homing pigeons & an appearance from the Duke of Danby help to make this a lovely short story

Her Hidden Beauty – Rose Pearson 4 stars
Miss Mary Huntsworth has always been told she is plain. Overshadowed by her older, more beautiful twin sisters, she has no expectation or hope when it comes to her London Season. But when one handsome gentleman seems to take notice of her, Marie’s hopes slowly begin to build. Viscount Benedict Northwick has lost a bet and is now forced to follow through with the consequences: courting the plainest young lady in all of London until she declares her love for him. A take on Cinderella but at the start Ben is no prince charming. I was routing for Mary all the way through & loved the ending

The Lady’s Guide to Mistletoe & Mayhem - Emmanuelle de Maupassant 4 stars
On the run from an unwanted marriage, Ursula assumes the identity of an etiquette teacher and heads to a remote Scottish castle for the Yuletide season, but her 'young charge' turns out to be more than she bargained for. Texan rancher Rye Dalreagh, the long lost Dunrannoch heir, has been thrown in the deep end. During what should be the merriest of seasons, he must choose a bride, navigate an ancient curse, avoid being murdered, and try not to fall in love with his manners tutor.
Meanwhile, amidst the mayhem, a cold-blooded killer stalks the corridors of Castle Dunrannoch... and nothing is going to stand in their way.
A well written easy to read novella, which I read in a sitting. I love the Lady’s Guide books all of them are highly entertaining, this one has a bit of a gothic feel. I loved the mystery & of course the romance, I loved both Rye & Ursula, their attraction sizzled. I was sorry to finish it & wish it had been longer

[Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know. I'm a huge cheater. I read one of these stories. But it's been sitting on my 'currently reading' shelf for 7 months and I am going to quietly, ahem, move it to read because reading 7000 pages is rather daunting haha. I will try to pick a story up here and there and add to this review though!

For now:
A Soldier’s Dream by Annabelle Anders and Janna MacGregor
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: only kisses
Humor: a touch
Perspective: Third person

Thoughts: This story was super cute! Featuring a soldier hero that survives on letters written to him during his time served, he comes back and finds out the author isn’t who he thought.

Tropes: soldier hero, letters written, secret identity

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review for Scorned Innocence by Sawyer Quinn

I enjoyed this short story from Sawyer Quinn. It had the right amount of spice. Zach and Emma really did heat things up. I like that Zach understood that Emma was not experienced and so he was gentle with her. Thus, when they became intimate, it was a sweet but sexy moment for them both. You could say that Emma won't be regretting her "first time".

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

🇺🇦Annabelle Anders/Janna Magregor

A lovely return from war romance.
A little like musical partners, you’ll understand when you read it.
Very good , lighthearted fun.

🇺🇦Earl of Kendal
Madeline Martin

I adored this book when first it released, it was even better reading it again.
Passionate, chemistry driven romance at its best.

🇺🇦Emma
Kathryn Le Veque

A wonderful book from one of the best in the business.
Emma is a spooky gothic romance, full of great characters and eerie moments.
Poe inspired and wonderful

🇺🇦For Love of the Duke
Christie Caldwell

What could be better than a Duke, a beautiful Lady and a frost fair to incite romance and adventure.
This author writes these so well, and if you enjoy this I believe she has a few more in the series.
Excellent

🇺🇦His Wicked Embrace
Lauren Smith

This was one of a favourite series of mine and it was so nice to read again.
I adore the characters and the backstory.
Strangers to lovers and reluctant hero’s.
Just great

🇺🇦The Hunter
Hildie McQueen

Scottish Romance, passion, intrigue and adventure.
Excellent reading start to finish from Hildie.
Follows a Clan and their exploits through marriage and war.
Great reading and brilliant characters.

🇺🇦Lords of Scandal
Tammy Andersen

A gaming he’ll run by men who like to stay under the radar and single is stumbled upon by 6 ladies of the ton.
Slowly the gents and ladies discover their partners through this series. One of them already knows one of the gents quite well in fact .
This is the introduction to that series.
Great reading

🇺🇦The Wards bride
Cecelia Mecca

This is the prequel novella to the Border series. The first for this author.
This book and the series are wonderful and I highly recommend you reading both, great writing, characters and chemistry fill her books.

Her stories are about two families at war who slowly find themselves linked through marriage and friendship across the English /Scottish border.

🇺🇦I’ve only mentioned a portion of the wonderful works on offer in this charitable anthology.
I have no doubt the others are just as good.
Please remember that this is to raise money for Ukraine and give generously of your time and donations.

🇺🇦I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Bronwen Evans]

I live in a small country at the bottom of the world—New Zealand. In a way, that makes me very lucky even though we feel forgotten by the world at times. Sometimes being forgotten is a blessing.

NZ is a country of only 5.2 million people. I watch what is happening in Ukraine with anger, fear and abhorrence. What if an aggressor decided to invade New Zealand? Who would help us? We do have strong allies through Nato etc. Unlike Ukraine…

We all donate to good causes, and I’m sure many of you, like me, have already donated to help the people of Ukraine, but I could not say no to being part of the Sunflower Season charity anthology to help Ukraine. Every cent goes to easing their suffering. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this fabulous anthology for such a good and important cause - Ukraine.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Soldier’s Dream- 4 stars
This was a sweet story of forbidden love. Everything works out very quickly since this is just a short novella and the couple did most of their falling in love before the story began, through letters exchanged while the hero was away at war. Emma’s writing to Michael in her sister’s stead was endearing and despite its brevity, I still came away believing that Michael and Emma saw and knew each other better than those around them did. All in all, this is a sweet story to start off an excellent collection for a great cause.

When the earl who raised him as if he were his own son offers Sir Adam Dayne the lordship of Langford Castle, Adam can’t refuse the man who’s like a father to him. But to keep the peace on the fractious English-Scottish border, Adam must also marry the daughter of the Scottish border warden. Adam is eager to do anything to help his foster father, until he meets his reluctant bride and wonders just what he’s agreed to.

The Ward's Bride- 3 stars
Lady Cora Maxwell harbors nothing but resentment for the English. She comes up with a plan almost immediately, hoping to convince her new husband to send her back to Scotland by acting in increasingly infuriating ways. But Adam is determined not to disappoint his foster father, so he issues Cora a challenge of his own, forcing her to open herself up to the unwitting attraction she’s come to feel for Adam.

This was a fun novella, but I must say I was not a fan of Cora. She was extremely judgmental and wouldn’t give Adam even the slightest chance despite his impeccable behavior towards her. Poor Adam had the patience of a saint and I loved his relationship with Richard.

The Wolf of Westmore by Amalie Howard- 5 stars
Wulfric Bane, the Duke of Westmore knows he’s not destined for love and has instead turned his attention toward doing everything in his power to ruin the Duke of Tyne, his family’s long time enemy. Tyne’s sheltered daughter, Lady Jocelyn Capehart is eager to shed the chains of her upbringing and make her own decisions, even if it is only for one night before she’s forced into marriage to a man older enough to be her grandfather. But her one anonymous night with Wulfric at his exclusive club soon turns into more than he bargained for and a connection neither can ignore.

This is probably my favorite thing I’ve ever read from Amalie Howard. There were a lot of tropes and elements employed here that I liked: the feuding families, the loose fairy tale retelling, the need to escape an arranged marriage. My only complaint was the naivete and gullibility of the heroine with regards to her family, but thankfully, with this being a short novella there really wasn’t time for that to become really annoying. The chemistry and connection between Jocelyn and Wulfric were palpable and I loved that she took her future and her desires into her own hands and did something about it. I enjoyed that Wulfric was able to set aside his pride and take hold of his own happiness after so many years of grief and tumult in his life. These elements made this a surprisingly hopeful, feel-good story in the end, and the high steam level was just another plus.

The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem- 3.5 stars
When her uncle tries to force her into an unwanted marriage and steal her inheritance, Ursula flees to the Highlands, assuming the identity of a governess bound for a remote castle. She’s surprised, however, when the boy she expects to be teaching turns out to be a grown, and very handsome, man.

Rye Dalreagh was born and raised in Texas but has come to Scotland to fulfill his father’s dying wish by taking his place as the heir to Dunrannoch and future earl. During the Yuletide festivities he is expected to choose a bride, but his affections are rapidly growing for his tutor. In addition to navigating his way around his family’s preferences, he must also avoid succumbing to a ghastly accident like the ones that killed his cousins before him.

I enjoyed the fast pace of this story, and the narrator did a good job of making it come to life. The bit of mystery thrown in was a nice touch and the relationship development between Rye and Ursula felt believable, though the ending was a bit rushed, and she waited rather a long time to be truthful about who she was. Nonetheless, this was an entertaining story.

The Duke of Paris- 5 stars
As children of the youngest son of a duke, the Honorable Miss Dorothy McGovern and her brother Damien are part of a large and well-connected, if notorious, aristocratic family. But thanks to their father's bad investments of his already small inheritance, they barely have two shillings to rub together. Dorothy knows it's up to her to marry well in order to save herself and her brother and they both hope opportunity will arise when they join their McGovern cousins on a Grand Tour of Europe, beginning in Paris.

Lord Marshall Stone, now the Duke of Reith, is in Paris visiting his disgraced brother, Sebastian, and drowning his grief for his father in booze and women. He has no care for his rapidly disintegrating reputation and even sets out to seduce a lady's companion in the employ of his friend, Asher, the Duke of Addlebury. Only, it turns out the lovely lady is actually his friend's cousin and soon Marshall can't get her out of his head. Even worse, Marshall and Dorothy begin receiving blackmail threats that are a danger to the reputation and standing of both families and they must work together to find out who is behind the awful, incriminating photos.

This was a fun, quick romp. Marshall may have conducted himself rather appallingly at first, but he did improve and did some first rate groveling to Dorothy. These two had a lovely, immediate connection that made for a great read and I look forward to the continuation of this series.

Earl of Kendal- 4 stars
Adolphus Merrick, the Earl of Kendal, isn’t proud of the smuggling he got up to in the past, even if it was necessary. Now he owns a gaming den and guards an even bigger secret, one he’ll do anything to protect, even if that means marriage. He never intended to marry at all and doesn’t trust easily, but Kendal still can’t help but be a bit charmed by his intended.

Lady Sophia Stopford has tried to live her life fully and experience everything she can, but with her father forcing her into marriage, that carefree lifestyle is rapidly coming to an end. She’s desperate and will do most anything to escape the unwanted match, including haring off on a new adventure. But now the very man who gave her the idea has chased after her and is determined she should marry him instead. Sophia would like to resist, but there is more to the enigmatic Earl of Kendal than meets the eye and she can’t help being curious about him.

These two soon find themselves on a life-changing adventure, but there is danger too and the new passion flaring between them must be strong enough to keep them together.

This was a fun, quick read and I wound up really enjoying it. At first, I found the heroine to be rather vapid and naïve, which was annoying, but she grew on me and I liked her eventually, especially when she was with Kendal. I liked the road trip setting and forced proximity and Kendal was a great hero. I loved that he had such layers and vulnerability beneath his staid façade and that he and Sophia were able to confide in each other as neither had to anyone else before. I loved how protective Kendal was of Sophia and I’m now hoping his sister will have her own story as well.

Pretty in Plaid- 5 stars
Kenna Forbes, daughter of murdered Jacobite rebels, has been raised with her royalist uncle. But now even those loyal to King George aren’t safe from his marauding dragoons, so her other uncle, a Jacobite himself, sends his man, Sorley MacLeod, to fetch Kenna back to the relative safety of Skye. Kenna is less than impressed and Sorley must convince her of his trustworthiness if they hope to live.

This was such a cute, light-hearted novella, even with the turbulent setting and the danger our MCs faced. I loved that there was no game playing between Sorley and Kenna when it came to their feelings for each other. This quick resolution is one of my favorite features of novellas when done well, as it was here. Sorley and Kenna’s road trip, forced proximity story was an excellent, fast-paced escape from reality and their chemistry was evident on every page.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm just going to go ahead and say that all of these stories are incredible and that I'm blessed to be able to read them. And that so many wonderful authors have gotten together for such a worthy cause. I can't say anything bad about any of these of these stories.

There's some sweet and beautiful stories

Then there's some sweet and spicy stories mixed in this collection.


Each and every one of these stories are just amazing. Thank you for letting me read these stories and thank you to the amazing authors for getting together and helping the people of Ukraine.

[Amy [Book Addict Reviews] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review for Scorned Innocence by Sawyer Quinn:

The chemistry between Emma and Zach is electric. I love how sweet, but dirty Zach is when it comes to Emma. I love Emma’s sass and she is a little fireball.

This story was fast paced, had some slight drama and really leaves you wanting more about the characters, so I hope this isn’t the end of them.

If you’re looking for a fast paced, historical romance this check this one out.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are so many wonderful authors in this collection of historical romance stories! It is a great opportunity to sample the works of almost all the best authors in the genre and find new favorites. I see many weeks of romance and enchantment ahead. A few notables include The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem which is a fun and steamy romp in Scotland with a mysterious tutor who is hiding from her evil uncle and a rough-around-the-edges Texan; The Ward's Bride by Cecelia Mecca which is the prequel novella to many wonderful romance books in the Borderlands and Brotherhood series set on the border of Scotland and England during dangerous times; For Love of a Duke by Christie Caldwell and The Outcast by Glynnis Campbell. Wow. And what a generous and thoughtful way to raise money to help Ukraine. I want to thank all the authors for doing this.

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ultimate anthology! Seventy gorgeous historical romance authors have teamed up for this charity collection and many of them are my favorite ones! Of course I couldn’t read all the novellas and novels in advance, so I concentrated on some of them.

Sawyer Quinn’s Scorned Innocence is a wonderful and steamy novella that left me wanting for more. Hot hero, great chemistry between the characters, stunning writing. This author is becoming more and more interesting and I simply adore her little “teasers” to upcoming books.

Nicole Locke’s The Spy’s Letters is an charming short story full of deep feelings (as in all this author’s books!) with a touch of adventure and danger. As always, I loved Locke’s flawless writing and her full-rounded characters. It’s always difficult to get the reader to love a character when you have only a few pages to built it, but this talented author passed the test with flying colors!

Annabelle Anders and Janna MacGregor penned a little gem of a novella, with endearing characters and a perfect happy ending. Exquisite writing and all the feeling of a much longer story.

Sandra Sookoo’s To Bed or To Wed is a full length book that captured my heart and it’s definitely Sookoo at her best. There’s steam and feeling and a heroine who knows what she wants and is not afraid to take it. And of course I love a grumpy, tortured hero and Nathan was perfectly portrayed. Well-developed characters and beautiful writing, as I’ve come to expect from this talented author.

Fenna Edgewood’s Mistletoe Journey is an amazing novella with two endearing characters. I especially loved John, so shy and passionate at the same time. And of course I ADORED Caroline, an independent woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid of taking it. I loved the fact that they were older than the usual characters of an historical novel, because we older “girls” (!) need more characters we can relate too!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a terrific book! What a terrific idea! This book with around 70 stories by all different authors was put together for charity, these wonderful authors are raising funds for Ukraine. This is a bargain, you get all these nice stories, and it is for a good cause also. I have read some of these stories before, and I enjoyed reading them again. Some stories are new to me, and some authors are new. At this time, I did not finish this book, I don’t think I am even a quarter away thru the book, and that is why this is so great. I am keeping this as my, “I don’t have much time, but I want to read a nice story”.
I received an ARC of this book from a few authors, and I am leaving my honest opinion.

[Patricia King · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great collection of stories by wonderful authors. Generally, the stories I've read from this anthology are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. I've not read all the stories, only the ones that spoke to me. But, ladies, whether I read your story or not, what a gift you've given to the people of Ukraine. I thank you.

Here are the reviews for the books I chose to read. Each is rated individually.

A Soldier's Dream
Annabelle Anders and Janna MacGregor, authors
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

A beautiful love story from afar.. and through letters.

Captain Michael Harrington and Charlotte Pratt's story , or is it Emma Pratt??? Love ignites through distant words on paper.

Beautifully composed and written. Characters with charisma and charm. Electrifying!

I highly suggest this story!

Duke Most Dangerous
Wallflowers & Rogues
Lenora Bell, author
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Friends to lovers trope..

Lucas Doncaster, Duke of Greymead is about to meet his maker, or is he about to meet a ghost from his past?

Miss Clover Evans is hot and angry. And she's about to take her revenge. She's been in love with Lucas since childhood and he just simply forgot her and went on with his charmed life without her.

This story is fun, sexy, and oh so adorable. You'll love the antics of this storyline. I recommend this novella.

Love a Lady at Midnight
Cavendish series ~ short story ~
Charlie Lane, author
🌟🌟🌟

A cute story about two childhood friends, now grown and wanting to be with each other. Their wish comes to fruition at a masquerade party, as Miss Gwendolyn Smith gives Mr. Jackson Cavendish a run for his desire.

This was the first story by this author that I've read.

Chasing The Duke
Tracy Sumner, author
🌟🌟🌟🌟

She's been in love with her Duke, like forever!!! And he hasn't even noticed her. He's her older brother's best friend. What to do? She doesn't want to run after him or make herself resemble a fool hearted woman.

This is Camille Bellington and Tristan Tierney, Duke of Mercer's story.

This was the first story by this author that I've read.

The Gift
T.L. Christianson, author
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

A delightfully delicious steamy historical paranormal romance that takes place early in the 1800's.

Evie lives with her Gran, Aunt Bet and her very pregnant sister Mary. She works super hard at her Gran's shop. At the insistence of her family, Evie decides to take a break from her duties. She takes a little jaunt. During her walk, she comes upon a man lying on the ground, barely conscious and bleeding from a stab wound. Using her magic, she aids the healing of the wound quicker than it would usually heal; likewise, Evie also helps him clean and bandage the wound. Afterwards, they engage in romantic escapades, such as, snowball fights, bubble baths, and dancing. Once warm and clean, Adam wants to repay Evie for her kindness. Thus, he decides to make Evie a big breakfast of bacon, cakes, scrambled eggs and coffee. Only where did the bacon come from?

..And oh, that hot steamy love scene, or was it just a golem? Did Adam Hargrove really exist or was it just a magic spell put on Evie by her family? Read this story to find out. It was fun and light. A great getaway.

Fortune's Gamble
Fortunes of Fate Series, Book 3
Diana Bold, author
Originally read 7/2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

It was a pleasure reading the third installment of the Fortunes of Fate series. This is also the first book I've read by Diana Bold. I quite enjoyed this tale of love. Although, the hero of the story takes on the identity of his fallen younger half-brother, to me, this story is about taking a risk at a second chance on life and running with it.

Christian Barnes (AKA, Andrew Bradford, Viscount of Trowbridge) meets a beautiful young woman, Lady Rebecca Davenport and falls in love. Unbeknown to Christian, she just so happened to be engaged to his deceased brother. Does Christian come clean and tell Rebecca or does he keep his identity a secret from her? Likewise, he is afforded the opportunity to re-engage with his uncle, his dead mother's brother. There was a surprise I did not see coming that I quite enjoyed.

Read this enchanting story for yourself and you'll be delighted with a warm-hearted storyline. On a side note, I would love to see the author develop her own series from this novella. There is definitely a storyline that can be developed further.

His Wicked Embrace
The League of Rogues, Book 6
Lauren Smith, author
Originally read 1/2022
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Mr. Lawrence Russell was asked to look into the illegal infractions at a local establishment by his older brother. He was asked to report back. But when a beautiful dark haired raven beauty was being auctioned off to the highest bidder, Lawrence couldn't allow her to be sold into the hands of a suspected owner of a bordello. He bought her and brought her home with him, vowing to protect her. But what will it cost him? How did the beauty end up at the auction?

Enjoy the chanting story, as Lawrence gets to know his beautiful Princess from afar, Zehra Darzi.

Lady Leonora Knows Best
Hesitant Husbands series, Prequel Novelet
Cara Maxwell, author
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Beautifully written with emotionally packed characters...

I couldn't put this well crafted book down. It was very touching and heartfelt.

Lord Edmund Avery of Cornwall and Lady Leonora Hutton have a past together. They were engaged to be married. But the war got in the way. Edmund went to war and came back permanently disabled. He lost his sight. It's been two years and he has done nothing but hide away in his castle. Leonora has had enough and decides to take matters into her hands. Needless to say Leonora has her way with Edmund in more ways than one.

I absolutely loved Leonora's strength, stamina and ingenuity. She is such a strong and vibrant character. Her chemistry shines through.

I highly recommend this prequel novelet. This was the first book I've read by Ms. Maxwell, but it certainly won't be my last.

A Slight Miscalculation
Half Moon House series, Book 1.6
Deb Marlowe, author
🌟🌟🌟🌟

A darling love match explodes in numbers among constellations of stars and planets in this little short story.

Finally, William Hampton Viscount Worthe has found his match in the numbers game of life with Miss Jane Tillney.

Enjoyable storyline. 😊

The Spinter's Alluring Season
Season of the Spinter, Book 2.5
Tabetha Waite, author
Originally read 12/2020
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I originally read this in early 2020 in the anthology, "Some Wallflowers Do."
A house party. A bored lady. One determined man with one thing he strives to accomplish, and the plot thickens.... Lady Rowena Freeham realizes she is attracted to Sir Pierce Rutherford. His long lasting love blossoms even stronger for her. But there is darkness that looms in the shadows. Will their desire, faith and patience prevail? Read this sweet novella to find the answer. A well written story with characters that displayed warmth, caring and most of all grit.

The Ward's Bride
Cecelia Mecca, author
Originally read 12/2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is my first read by Ms. Cecelia Mecca. She was highly recommended by a friend of mine. I was definitely not disappointed. This novella introduces the Border series that is set in the Medieval times and focuses on the Border wars between England and Scotland.

The storyline brings Lady Cora Maxwell of Scotland into the life of Sir Adam Dayne of England in the year 1245. Fighting at the borders between the two countries, Cora is offered by her father, Sir John Maxwell, the Scottish warden to Sir Dayne of Langford, England as a peace offering to initiate the alliance between the two countries.

Cora unhappy with the offering of her person and the thought of residing in England for the remainder of her days plots her escape so she is able to return to her homeland. Will she be successful, or will Adam woo her into staying as his wife?

[Lady E · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Partial Review - 34% - Check Back for Updates***

Stories are grouped by what I judge to be the main trope. Each is rated 1-5 stars, with steam level noted.

Most of these short stories are complete in and of themselves, but a few seem to be teasers or excerpts from longer works and end as a cliffhanger or with uncertainty about the hero and heroine’s relationship. I’ve marked these as “incomplete/teaser” so you’ll be prepared that there is not a happy ending for the couple within the anthology. I did not verify if there is in fact a longer work to be read.

Brother’s or Sister’s Friend
A Test of Love / Rachel Ann Smith
    ★Dorinda & Benedict
    ★4 stars
    ★very low steam
Chasing the Duke / Tracy Sumner
    ★Camille & Tristan
    ★4 stars
    ★steamy
The Duke’s Christmas List / Bronwen Evans
    ★Harriet & Blade
    ★4 stars
    ★steamy
A Midnight Clear / Kate Bateman
    ★ Tatiana & Aleksandr
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ no steam

Childhood Sweethearts or Friends
Duke Most Dangerous / Lenora Bell
    ★ Clover & Lucas
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ steamy
His Tempting Kiss / Rebecca Paula
    ★ Emmett & Cora
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ no steam
    ★ incomplete/teaser
Silver Bells and Mistletoe / Anna St. Claire
    ★ Susan & Grayson
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ low steam

Concealed Identity
A Soldier’s Dream / Annabelle Anders and Janna MacGregor
    ★ Micheal & Emma
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ no steam
Spy Season / Golden Angel
    ★Anthony & Evie (aka Yvette)
    ★3 stars
    ★very steamy
    ★incomplete/teaser
The Spy’s Letters / Nicole Locke
    ★Brigitta & Christopher
    ★3 stars
    ★no steam

Damaged Hero
The Return / Anna Campbell
    ★Sarah & Julius
    ★3 stars
    ★no steam

Employer-Employee or Workplace Romance
Her Valentine’s Rogue / Virginia Heath
    ★Lily & Evan
    ★4 stars
    ★no steam
The Lady’s Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem / Emmanuelle de Maupassant
    ★ Ursula & Rye
    ★ 4 stars (confusing at the beginning, but gets better)
    ★ steamy & explicit

Enemies to Lovers
A Rogue’s Redemption / Lana Williams
    ★Kenneth & Ester
    ★4 stars
    ★no steam

Fake Relationship
Her Hidden Beauty / Rose Pearson
    ★ Mary & Benedict
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ no steam

Forbidden or Taboo Relationship
The Maharaja’s Daughters / Celeste Barclay
    ★ Robert & Suniti, Theodore & Vinita; William & Sarla
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ steamy
Message from a Lady / Jane Charles
    ★ Peter & Johanna
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ no steam
An April Fool’s Forbidden Affair / Sabrina Jeffries
    ★ Augusta & Mason
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ no steam

Forced Proximity
Lord Dashwood’s Seductive Colors / Royaline Sing
    ★ Malini & Adi
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ steamy and explicit
Mistletoe Journey / Fenna Edgewood
    ★ John & Caroline
    ★ 4 stars
    ★steamy & explicit

Friends to Lovers
Charmed by Chance / Maggie Dallen
    ★ Roderick & Franny
    ★ 2 stars
    ★ no steam
Love a Lady at Midnight / Charlie Lane
    ★ Jackson & Gwendolyn
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ moderately steamy
The Mad Countess / Erica Monroe
    ★ Claire & Teddy
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ some steam & moderately explicit

Marriage of Convenience
Flat River Matchmaker / Christine Sterling
    ★ Hannah & Hiram
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ no steam
    ★ incomplete/teaser
Mistletoe Trap / Eve Pendle
    ★ Amelia & Robert
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ steamy & explicit

Paranormal
The Gift / T. L. Christianson
    ★Adam & Evie
    ★2 stars
    ★steamy
Hearts of All Hallows’ Eve / Jenna Jaxon
    ★Cecilia & William
    ★4 stars
    ★no steam
The Laird’s Yulebringer / Caroline Lee
    ★ Glynnis & Callan
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ no steam

Second Chance
Condemned Innocence / Sawyer Quinn
    ★ Emma & Zachary
    ★ 2 stars
    ★ very steamy
    ★ incomplete/teaser
Reconciling with Rangeley / Wendy LaCapra
    ★Phillip & Kitty
    ★4 stars
    ★moderately steamy
Sweetest Chocolate Drop / Piper Huguley
    ★Cat & Mike
    ★2 star (because it’s not really a romance)
    ★no steam
Highlander’s Christmas / Mariah Stone
    ★Deidre & Hamish
    ★3 stars
    ★steamy & explicit
A Brazen Agreement / Tamara Gill
    ★ Sutton & Logan
    ★ 4 stars
    ★ steamy & explicit

No Trope
A Highlander for Hanukkah / Lori Ann Bailey
    ★ Shoshana & James
    ★ 3 stars
    ★ moderately steamy

[Zena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of the authors in the Sunflower Season are known to me and others are new, but with so many stories at such an incredible bargain price and for such a worthwhile cause who can resist this Anthology.
My review of The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem by Emmanuelle de Maupassant follows and it is only one of the many others which I am looking forward to reading too:
A gripping and amusing story set in a a Scottish castle in the early 1900's. The main characters, Ursula, a pretend Governess and Rye, a Texan Rancher (who has just inherited a title), are thrown together and manage to solve the mystery of why male members of Rye's family are dying off under mysterious circumstances. Along the way they fall in love.
I love happy endings!
This gothic romance is definitely to be recommended!
My voluntary and unbiased review is recorded above.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very uneven anthology, but the good stories are excellent. Plus I can't argue with the cause.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

How could this be anything but one fabulous collection when it includes writings from 70 of the greatest historical romance writers of our time, including all of my favorites!!
As if that was not enough incentive to purchase, the fact that the proceeds go to help the dear people of the Ukraine, makes it a win, win. I would encourage all my fellow romance readers to purchase this project. As such,
I have been asked to review one of the short stories contained within by Jane Charles, titled, “Message From a Lady”. I have enjoyed several of her books but this story was not my favorite. I do not like weak and wish washy, albeit, prideful heroes, as this one featured, and kidnappings are not my favorites either. Even for a short story, it has a very abrupt ending which wasn’t too satisfying. I look forward to reading many other stories in this anthology.

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

A SOLDIER'S DREAM by Annabelle Anders and Janna MacGregor - A sweet story of a soldier becoming betrothed before leaving for war; after he leaves, his fiancé falls in love with someone else. Her younger sister continues to write to him but always signs her sister's name. They fall in love over the years & many letters. Now he has returned to find a fiancé who doesn't want him, her younger sister has lied to him, can a HEA be found?

LOVE A LADY AT MIDNIGHT by Charlie Lane - Two people in love but neither know, a masquerade ball, he chases after her at the masquerade, they both know who the other one is but won't admit it - one night of passion, but how will it end?

MESSAGE FROM A LADY by Jane Charles - There has been one love for Peter Storm and his lady is also in love with him, but Lady Johanna Knight's grandfather does not approve of Mr. Storm. He insists Lady Johanna marry a gentleman with a title - Peter is the 4th son of an earl. When Lady Johanna is put in a dangerous situation, Peter knows he must be the one to save her, even though she will not be his in end. This was a lovely, romantic short story and will he save her, will her grandfather accept him - read it to find out (a HEA is guaranteed)?

[Abi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology actually has 6286 pages. 78 stories total. My goal was to finish this book in 2024 and I did! I sometimes hesitate to read anthologies because for me, if I don't read all the stories, I didn't finish reading the book. But I read them all!! There were a handful that I wouldn't have picked up based on the blurb. Some ended up being really good and some ended up being bad.

I did a rating for each story. For some I indicated if they ended in a cliffhanger or if I had an issue with it. I low key regret not writing a couple of sentences for every story because my reviews tend to be self reminders of what it was about. There are a handful of stories I would like to revisit but I forgot which ones they are. But I'll have fun finding them again.

Over all, I give this anthology a 4/5. I know that if I were to average the individual ratings, it would be lower but I still think this was an amazing set of stories. The 5 and 4 rated stories definitely made up for the 1 and 2. There were some format/editing issues in some of the stories but I think it is a bit expected with how big this book was.

1. A Soldier's Dream: 3/5
2. Charmed by Chance: 2/5
3. Condemned Innocence: 4/5, cliffhanger
4. Duke Most Dangerous 3/5
5. The Flat River Matchmaker 3/5, kinda cliffhanger
6. Her Hidden Beauty 4/5
7. His Tempting Kiss 2/5 cliffhanger
8. Love a Lady at Midnight 4/5
9. The Maharaja’s Daughters 1/5
10. Message from a Lady 3.5/5
11. Reconciling with Rangeley 5/5
12. The Return 5/5
13. A Rogue’s Redemption 4/5
14. Spy Season 4/5 cliffhanger
15. The Spy’s Letters 4/5
16. The Sweetest Chocolate Drop 2/5
17. A Test of Love 2/5
18. Chasing the Duke 5/5
19. The Duke’s Christmas List 3/5
20. The Gift 2/5
21. Hearts of All Hallows’ Eve, 5/5
22. Her Valentine’s Rogue 3/5
23. A Highlander for Hanukkah 3/5
24. Highlander’s Christmas 2/5
25. The Lady’s Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem 3/5
26. The Laird’s Yulebringer 5/5
27. Lord Dashwood's Seductive Colors 3/5
28. The Mad Countess 4/5
29. Mistletoe Journey 4/5
30. A Midnight Clear 4/5
31. Silver Bells and Mistletoe 2/5 too many errors
32. An April Fool’s Forbidden Affair 3/5
33. A Brazen Agreement 4/5
34. By Any Other Name 3/5
35. The Debutante’s Duke 1/5 definitely not a romance
36. Duchess of Darby 4/5
37. The Duke of Paris 4/5
38. Earl of Kendal 4.5/5
39. Emma 3.5/5
40. For Love of the Duke 4/5
41. Forget-Me-Not 3.5/5
42. Fortune’s Gamble 2.5/5
43. Her Gentleman Thief 3/5
44. His Wicked Embrace 2/5
45. How to Live Happily Ever After 4/5
46. How to Take Revenge on a Disloyal Scot 4/5
47. The Hunter 3.5/5
48. If You Dared to Love a Laird 2.5/5
49. The Lady and the Privateer 5/5
50. Lady Lenora Knows Best 5/5
51. The Liberation of Anne de Bourgh 3.5/5
52. Lords of Scandal 3/5 set up for a series
53. Loving My Wicked Rogue 2/5
54. A Match, Unmasked 5/5
55. The Outcast 2/5 How was it resolved?!?
56. The Perfect Fiance 3/5
57. Pretty in Plaid 4/5
58. Presenting Lady Gus 5/5
59. The Puzzle Box 3/5
60. Ruby 4/5 bittersweet ending
61. A Scene in Time 1/5 forced myself to finish it. It wasn't even a romance
62. A Slight Miscalculation 3/5
63. A Soldier's Duchess 2/5
64. The Spinster's Alluring Season 2/5
65. The Spinster's Secret Scoundrel 4/5
66. The Spy and His Lady Love 1.5/5
67. To Wed or to Bed 3/5
68. To Steal a Viking Bride 3/5
69. Too Clever by Half 4/5
70. A Traitor's Heart 3/5
71. The Truant Lord Clairmont 4/5
72. The Wallflower Code 4/5
73. The Wallflower's Kiss 2/5
74. Waltz of Seduction 3/5
75. The Ward's Bride 3/5
76. When Hearts Rebel 3/5
77. The Wolf of Westmore 3/5
78. Written in My Heart 4/5

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review for Waltz of Seduction by Natasha Blackthorne

Preconceived perceptions will lead to misunderstandings every time… count on it!

Lord Colin Lockhart believes sexuality and arousal are too unsettling for genteel women’s nerves and a husband doesn’t subject his wife to his animal lust.

Lady Sara Lockhart believes Colin married her for her impressive dowry… despite her plain looks and timid demeanor.

Married less than a year, the couple stumbles through their relationship maintaining the proper behavior befitting their station.

But when Colin tells his shy, non-dancing wife they will waltz together at her upcoming birthday ball, Sara panics at the thought of everyone watching her. Colin tries to assure her they will be fine and suggests they practice.

Awkward and clumsy at first, a new level of trust grows between Colin and Sara in the soft, round movements of the waltz, strengthening their bond… and loosening their inhibitions. All those preconceived notions go up in flames as this short read goes from sweet to blazing inferno!

I wasn’t ready for Waltz of Seduction to end. I liked the Lockharts, both honest without guile, trying to be what society said they were supposed to be, even in the privacy of the bed chambers

Download this well-written read today and join Colin and Sara on their journey of discovery… and desire.

Enjoy!

[Aj · Rating 4 out of 5]

An absolute gorgeous collection of 70 romances and for such a great cause. There's something here for everyone, I found some new stories and some old favourites.

I've just skimmed the surface to give some idea of what's available and I will have to delve back in again...

It kicks off with A Soldier's Dream beautifully co-written by Annabelle Anders and Janna MacGregor. I also enjoyed A Duke Most Dangerous by Lenora Bell, Love a Lady at Midnight by Charlie Lane, The Return by Anna Campbell, Spy Season by Golden Angel, The Duke's Christmas List by Bronwen Evans, Her Valentine's Rogue by Virginia Heath, For Love of the Duke by Christi Caldwell, Message from a Lady by Jane Charles, A Test of Love by Rachel Ann Smith, Written in my Heart by Caroline Linden, and The Wallflower's Kiss by Eva Devon.

Some old favourites for me were Chasing the Duke by Tracy Sumner, Waltz of Seduction by Natasha Blackthorne, The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem by Emmanuelle De Maupassant, A Midnight Clear by Kate Bateman, A Brazen Agreement by Tamara Gill, The Wallflower Code by Bethany Bennett, The Wolf of Westmore by Amalie Howard, Lady Lenora Knows Best by Cara Maxwell, and His Wicked Embrace by Lauren Smith.

[Sonia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful collection of stories from talented authors. The proceeds from this book will be donated to the people of Ukraine 🇺🇦.
I had so much fun reading this book with so many talented and known authors. I discovered new authors while reading this anthology. But, my favorite story was “Waltz of Seduction” by a favorite author of mine Natasha Blackthorne! Lord Lockhart is in love with his wife and believes a gentleman should not press his wife for sex. Lady Lockhart loves her husband and wants to seduce him because she wants his attentions. She comes up with Waltzing in their bedchamber. Soon the dance becomes a beautiful seduction they can’t ignore!
This is a wonderful fast paced romance and I loved it so very much!!
This anthology is a treat for romance lovers of all genres! It’s entertaining and some of the stories are sweet and others are spicy! Such an incredible variety of stories from such talented and loved authors.

[Lynn Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waltz of Seduction Review:

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Sara Lockhart just wants to be noticed. Colin Lockhart thinks he needs to follow propriety. This is a great reminder on how much we’ve changed. Our thinking and how we interact are just two examples.

Our author has created a piece of work that takes us back in time. We are always told that life was so much simpler back then but it seemed like they had rules for everything – and that included married life. Men seemed to have fewer rules than the woman – no surprise there. But Colin wasn’t expecting Sara. I liked he was patient, took his time, and how they were able to find a way to be a happy couple – together.

If I had to be sad about anything it would have to be how short this story is. You can finish it in a matter of a couple hours. Maybe you are one that likes to speed-read. It’s my hope though; that with this book you will slow down and enjoy the spicier side of this historical romance. The good side of reading a short story is that if you have the time you could read another novells or just check out another one of this author’s work.

I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[justinejustreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for Scorned Innocence by Sawyer Quinn. Scorned Innocence is a spicy and intense short story. It's the beginning of a second chance romance for Zachary and Emma, and I'm really looking forward to reading how their story plays out in the future. The heat is just what you want and the way the Quinn phrases words is artful and beyond that of a new author. I enjoyed this and will happily read more. 4 stars. Thanks to the author for the arc and opportunity to review.

[Elisabetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review for "Scorned Innocence" by Sawyer Quinn

A short but intense read!
I liked it a lot!
I'm eager now to know more and to read other books of this author!
Even if there were only a few pages, I felt immediately connected to Zach and Em!
"Scorned Innocence" is a lovely and spicy story, just how I like it!

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for The Spy’s Letter by Nicole Locke
A sweet story of danger, tragedy and love set during a time of war. Prussian born Gitta must leave her home before the soldiers take it over and she urges her uncle and their last remaining faithful servant that they flee to refuge in England. But on their journey they are attacked and Gitta is taken prisoner….
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author . All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible set of stories. A good cause.

Chasing the Duke by Tracy Sumner
Tristan has come back from the war emotionally damaged. His nightmares are horrific. He has been reclusive, worked on restoring the estate he inherited. Camille has a calming effect on him. Camille is happy and independent. She loves her plants and conservatory, and would love to be a member of the Botanical Society. The chemistry between these two is sizzling. Camille’s Aunt Bel and her friend Adelia, Countess Milburn, are scheming, gossipy, outspoken, funny, and absolutely loveable. They want Camille to find love and be happy. This a wonderful story, emotional, funny, and heartwarming, and it ends with a lovely epilogue where the reader smiles.

The Lady’s Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
Rye Dalreagh is a rancher and cowboy from Texas. He is also in line to become the next Earl of Dunrannoch. Ursula is a runaway heiress pretending to be some one else. She arrives at Castle Dunrannoch and discovers that she is expected to teach etiquette to Rye, whom she believed to be a child. These two become quite taken with each other. That doesn’t set well with Grandfather and the rest of the family. Can Rye convince her and his family that she is the right one for him? This very enjoyable story has a little bit of everything. There is a large, sometimes odd, family, a cowboy learning to be an earl, an heiress waiting for her birthday and independence, a murder mystery, and a possibly haunted castle. The story is fun and the characters entertaining. The ending? Quite typically Gothic. Wonderful!

The Mad Countess by Erica Monroe
Lady Claire Deering and Theodore Lockwood, Earl of Ashbrooke, have always been best friends, and now they are in love. Claire fears acting on that love because she is afraid that she will suffer the same madness (brought about by an angry witch’s curse) that claimed the lives and sanity of her mother and aunt. Teddy fears a lot of things, including telling Claire how he feels. He is determined to conquer his fears, her curse (although he really doesn’t believe in it), and find true love with Claire. Sounds good, right? Can they conquer the curse and find their happily ever after? Maybe. If they follow the advice of one of the castle’s ‘ghosts’ and trust the local coven of witches, they might find what they seek. This is a wonderful story. The hero and heroine are brave, very much in love, and tug at your heartstrings. Each of the strong secondary characters fits a niche in the story and fills the role beautifully. There are twists and surprises in this well-written story.

Silver Bells and Mistletoe by Anna St. Claire
This a fairy tale, complete with a wicked (more like evil and a bit insane) stepmother, a handsome hero, and a damsel in distress. Susan Winslow and Grayson Harding have been taken with each other since they were young(er). They lost touch when he left to go to university to study medicine. Susan is concerned about two problems, the betrothal her father is arranging and her little brother’s unusual poor health. Grayson has inherited his brother’s title and wishes to wed. Is there any possibility that he is the horrible old earl to which Susan is to be betrothed? Too good to be true? This is an interesting and endearing holiday story. It was a little unpredictable, hard to put down. There is a romance, a little scheme to help the romance along, and a mystery. Grayson and his friends may have the answer to the mystery, her younger brother’s illness. Grayson and Susan are meant to be together. Their happy ending is a Christmastide miracle for them and for their families. Wonderful story, great characters. Loved it.

How to Live Happily Ever After by Bree Wolf
This is an absolutely charming story with loads of humor and loveable characters. Agnes can’t believe Grant is serious about courting her, and certainly not about marrying her. Grant fell in love with Agnes, whom he calls Nessa, at first sight. There is one determined suitor, one confounded lady, two meddling mamas, and one sweet papa. The story is simple with a few side-steps and lots of fun. So, how do you get that happily ever after? Persistence!

The Spinster’s Alluring Season by Tabetha Waite
Pierce Rutland was a commoner, a groom, then a factory worker. That was before he became an agent for the Crown and a war hero and became a Baronet. Sir Pierce Rutland has worked for years to better his station and be worthy of Lady Rowena Freeham. Rowena is an independent outspoken spinster. Her invitation to the new baronet’s house party is a surprise, but not the biggest one she will encounter. While Pierce only has eyes for Rowena. She has a little competition, and I love how she deals with it. This is a lovely story with absolutely charming characters. Pierce and Rowena made me smile, giggle, and sigh. I now appreciate the importance of pineapples in reaching a happily ever after. A good read.

To Bed or to Wed by Sandra Sookoo
Charlotte doesn’t mind being a spinster. She knows what she wants in a man and is willing to wait for him. Her mother pushes, but so far, she has resisted settling. Nathan has no plans to marry. The torture and horror he experienced during the war has caused him to become grumpy and arrogant (his childhood didn’t help either). Things begin to change when a confrontation between the two of them turns into a kiss which eventually leads to a wonderfully chaotic attraction. Can they turn it into a happily ever after? This is a beautifully written story with great characters. I received an ARC of this story via BookSprout.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of these stories.

[Michelle Halber · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm calling this read now. I have about 7 more stories to go.

Book is spotty, and I'm not sure it's meant to really be read entirely. I just figured it was a good way to discover new authors. This collection is not available for sale anymore, as it was a special purchase to aid the Ukraine relief efforts.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing collection of over 70 authors of historical romance, put together to raise funds for Ukraine. What could be better?

There is no way to touch on each of these, although there are a lot I have read before. If you want to get a sample of what these amazing authors write, this is your chance! Just think, hours of entertainment to look forward to...

A Soldier's Dream by Annabelle Anders & Janna MacGregor
Capt Michael returns from the war with Napoleon, anxious to see his fiance' Charlotte. Her letters, written over three years had kept his spirits up and feel a connection to home. But what he finds it is Charlotte's younger sister who wrote all those letters. A heartfelt story when two couples get crossed up but all turns out well in the end. Sigh.

Message from a Lady by Jane Charles
A sweet story of an untitled man who loves a Lady and she him, but are denied marrying by her grandfather. But fate steps in and when he finds her in danger and through some really wonderful surprises including pigeons and the amazing Duke of Danby, love may just find a way!!

Earl of Kendal by Madeline Martin
Part of the Wicked Earl series, when a lady is determined not to marry the man her father insists on, she makes her escape. After talking to Kendal, she thought she had it all figured out.. But when the Earl finds out, he chases her down, and what a journey it is! Just fun..

Emma by Kathryn LeVeque,
A little different by this author, but wonderful! A true gothic romance that will keep you on your toes and have a few spooky moments! Simply great as everything is by this author!

The Wards Bride by Cecelia Mecca
The first of the books in the amazing Border series, it sets the scene for what is to come. If you have not read this series, do yourself a favor. One of my very favorite with swoon worthy warriors and the women that love them!

Lords of Scandal by Tammy Andresen
An amazing series, this is about a gaming hell owned by several gentlemen and each have a story. Can I just say swoon worthy? Do not miss this and all by this amazing author!

For the Love of the Duke by Christi Caldwell
Such fun with the Frost Fair going on with a handsome Duke and a beautiful Lady have a wonderful journey to love. All of this author's stories are simply wonderful!!

More to come, but this will give you a taste!

[Rhonda Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many authors in this fabulous anthology!y My review is based on Emmanuelle de Maupassant's contribution, "The Lady's Guide to Mistletoe and Mayhem".
I absolutely love Emmanuelle De Maupassant's books. Her writing style always brings her stories to life within my mind and I have an instant movie with characters so beautifully flawed they're easy to love and relate to. Well, on the other side of that coin, the villains are just as easy to hate. Ursula is no withering flower of her time. No, her mother passed, her governess left, and her father had allowed her to learn his business and books at his side. Ursula intended to take care of herself when she was grown and had no intention of marrying. Unfortunately, her father died before her plans could come to fruition leaving her the ward of her very greedy Uncle who sold not only her family home but her father's share of the business. As is the custom for women of the Regency era, Ursula would not have free access to even the interest on her inheritance until she turned twenty-five nor the full inheritance at thirty if she wasn't married by then. Rye was born and raised on a ranch in Texas. His father was the third son of the Earl of Dunrannoch in Scotland. His father thought he should marry a member of the gentry but Rory married instead, fell in love, and married the rector's daughter who happened to be his wife's companion. Certainly, Rye's mother had been genteel but not sufficiently well-positioned to please the Dalreaghs. Now that he had become incapacitated and two successive heirs had passed within a year of each other, a letter had been sent to Rory requesting he come to the castle and pick up the mantle of responsibility. Being on his death bed, Rory has placed the request at his son Rye's feet. There is such fascination, intrigue, drama, adventure, and chemistry in this book. The plot twists and turns keeping me on the edge of my seat to see what would happen next. Oh, let me not forget ….. The castle could be haunted! What a great book.

[Mia Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sunflower Season: A Historical Romance Charity Anthology for Ukraine featuring novellas, stories and novels is an amazing, Anthology with something for everyone by an star studded, award winning cast of authors including:
Sabrina Jeffries, Lenora Bell, Tammy Andresen, Virginia Heath, Caroline Linden, Amalie Howard, Eva Devon, Kathryn Le Veque, Janna MacGregor , Christi Cladwell, Caroline Lee, Golden Angel , Bree Wolf, Lori Ann Bailey, T.L. Christianson, Nicole Locke, Natasha Blackthorne, Amy Quinton, Annabelle Anders, Rachel Ann Smith, Sandra Sookoo, Tabetha Waite, Diana Bold, Sadie Bosque, Cheryl Bolen, Erica Monroe, Kate Bateman, Cara Maxwell, Tracy Sumner, Jenna Jaxon, Jane Charles, Eliza Knight, Mariah Stone, Robyn DeHart, Wendy LaCapra, Hildie McQueen, Madeline Martin, Amy Rose Bennett, Ava Bond, Piper Huguley, Fenna Edgewood, Nancy Yeager, Dawn Brower, Celeste Barclay, Lauren Royal, Michele Pollock Dalton, Glynnis Campbell, Rose Pearson, Erica Ridley, and Sydney Jane Baily

Excerpt From
Message from a Lady - Sunflower Season
Jane Charles
“Mr. Peter Storm loved only one woman, Lady Johanna Knight,”

Her grandfather Insist she marry a title but Johanna has other ideas. She’s as in love with Peter as he is with her. This is one lovely story that appeals to your heart. Who could blame Johanna, I fell in love with Peter from the start. Jane Charles Is a wonderfully talented author and though this is a novella it’s packed with all the love, kinship, humor and romance we’ve come to expect. There’s even a bit of mystery in this fantastic story. I love her character development, even though it’s a novella you still get the sense of actually knowing the characters. The dialogue Is amazing as always. I always look forward to her entertaining stories. I will be updating my review in the near future to include other authors and stories.

Thank you ladies for this wonderful collection!