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The Marriage Auction #4.5
Madam Alana: A Marriage Auction Novella
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Audrey Carlan comes a new story in her Marriage Auction series…
I run the most elite auction in the world.
Candidates and bidders come from all over the globe hoping to change their lives.
And I deliver.
I’m in the business of bringing couples together in a mutually beneficial and legally binding marriage. The terms are three years for no less than a million dollars a year, not including my commission. Once a pair signs on the dotted line, the contract ensures there is no going back.
Most couples find over time they are a love match, but not all.
Before I took over The Marriage Auction, there wasn’t an extensive vetting process. Some candidates were subjected to horrors that haunt my every waking moment.
I vowed to change that. To stand up for those who deserve more and to release them from the wrongs inflicted upon them by circumstance and chance.
What my bidders and candidates don’t know is that I understand exactly what they are experiencing.
I wasn’t always known as Madam Alana.
Once upon a time, I too was purchased in The Marriage Auction… And this is my story.
Reviews for Madam
“If you enjoy the Marriage Auction series, this is a must-read.” ~ Cocktails and Books
“Well, Audrey has done it again! Another unputdownable book set in The Marriage Auction prequel timeline of our beloved Madam Alana’s very own auction journey.” ~ miss.willa.colyns.diary
“Ms. Carlan did an outstanding job penning this novella. The character depth just pulls you in and makes you feel a myriad of emotions.” ~ The Romance Reporter
“I was so so waiting for the novella of Madam Alana when I first met her in the marriage auction series and trust me, it was truly a fabulous backstory or prequel we all wanted.” ~ Noan_Readsblog
I run the most elite auction in the world.
Candidates and bidders come from all over the globe hoping to change their lives.
And I deliver.
I’m in the business of bringing couples together in a mutually beneficial and legally binding marriage. The terms are three years for no less than a million dollars a year, not including my commission. Once a pair signs on the dotted line, the contract ensures there is no going back.
Most couples find over time they are a love match, but not all.
Before I took over The Marriage Auction, there wasn’t an extensive vetting process. Some candidates were subjected to horrors that haunt my every waking moment.
I vowed to change that. To stand up for those who deserve more and to release them from the wrongs inflicted upon them by circumstance and chance.
What my bidders and candidates don’t know is that I understand exactly what they are experiencing.
I wasn’t always known as Madam Alana.
Once upon a time, I too was purchased in The Marriage Auction… And this is my story.
Reviews for Madam
“If you enjoy the Marriage Auction series, this is a must-read.” ~ Cocktails and Books
“Well, Audrey has done it again! Another unputdownable book set in The Marriage Auction prequel timeline of our beloved Madam Alana’s very own auction journey.” ~ miss.willa.colyns.diary
“Ms. Carlan did an outstanding job penning this novella. The character depth just pulls you in and makes you feel a myriad of emotions.” ~ The Romance Reporter
“I was so so waiting for the novella of Madam Alana when I first met her in the marriage auction series and trust me, it was truly a fabulous backstory or prequel we all wanted.” ~ Noan_Readsblog
145 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2023
522 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Carlan
240 books6,714 followersAudrey Carlan is a No. 1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal best-selling author. She writes stories that help the reader find themselves while falling in love. Some of her works include the worldwide phenomenon Calendar Girl serial, Trinity series and the International Guy series. Her books have been translated into over thirty languages across the globe.
She lives in the California Valley, where she enjoys her two children and the love of her life. When she’s not writing, you can find her teaching yoga, sipping wine with her “soul sisters,” or with her nose stuck in a sexy romance novel.
If you would to hang out and learn more about my books, find me here:
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@audreycarlan
The Marriage Auction - https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/s...
The Keeper of Gods - https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/s...
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AudreyCarlan
FB Reader Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Audre...
Amazon
US: http://bit.ly/AudreyCarlanAMAZON
UK: http://amzn.to/2cAE6Pm
BookBub - http://bit.ly/AudreyCarlanBOOKBUB
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/audreycarlan/
She lives in the California Valley, where she enjoys her two children and the love of her life. When she’s not writing, you can find her teaching yoga, sipping wine with her “soul sisters,” or with her nose stuck in a sexy romance novel.
If you would to hang out and learn more about my books, find me here:
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@audreycarlan
The Marriage Auction - https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/s...
The Keeper of Gods - https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/s...
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AudreyCarlan
FB Reader Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Audre...
Amazon
US: http://bit.ly/AudreyCarlanAMAZON
UK: http://amzn.to/2cAE6Pm
BookBub - http://bit.ly/AudreyCarlanBOOKBUB
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/audreycarlan/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
April 17, 2023
What a beautiful window into the past and how it all (re)started! I loved this novella that tells the story of Madam Alana’s experience with the Marriage Auction, her insta love with Christo and the heartbreaking tale of her best friend/sister of heart Celine.
This novel provokes so many emotions, the story line is captivating, and the character growth of Alana is simply extraordinary!
I definitely recommend Madame Alana to all Marriage Auction enthusiasts, as well as Audrey Carlan’s newcomers, as it’s a brilliant introduction into her literary works.
This novel provokes so many emotions, the story line is captivating, and the character growth of Alana is simply extraordinary!
I definitely recommend Madame Alana to all Marriage Auction enthusiasts, as well as Audrey Carlan’s newcomers, as it’s a brilliant introduction into her literary works.
April 21, 2023
“Life is filled with an endless number of highs, lows, challenges, and obstacles. It’s how you maneuver those things and who you take that path with that make it worthwhile, non?”
Well, Audrey has done it again! Another unputdownable book set in The Marriage Auction prequel timeline of our beloved Madam Alana’s very own auction journey. As always Audrey writes deeply honest, heartfelt stories filled with sisterhood, survival, growth and joy. Through Alana and Celine’s struggles, we see that though this world is dark, and scary, there are rays of hope in the people who love you, and see your true heart. Her main characters are always strong females, ones you’ll admire and you will root for them from page one. You won’t be able to make use of a bookmark as you are swept away into this world as Alana and Celine fight through their unique challenges. You’ll be dying to read what happens next because whether it be healing from past trauma, clawing out of bad situations, or learning to live on amidst grief and loss, this book is filled with hope amidst it all. Alana falls under all the above as our gentle yet heroic FMC, who is trying to find safety for her and Celine. She is thankfully picked by a French artist, and deep feeling gentleman in her auction, while we know from TMA, Celine isn’t so lucky. Christophe, Alana’s husband we know and love from TMA is a fictional man who you will want to leap from the pages into reality. A romantics dream MMC, he is soft hearted, wide open to love, and a fiercely kind man worthy of our Alana. He is as we know him in TMA, hell bent on showing her the self worth she’s never seen or felt, outside of the love she has with her soul sister Celine. Celine as we know from TMA had a hard road behind (an understatement) and even more tragedy ahead, but this fiercely loyal, optimistic fighter would have ripped her own heart out just to give our Alana that island fortress! Her story deserved to be told, and adds so much depth to how our Alana is (especially with certain characters) in TMA. Celine and her ARC truly shaped Alana and TMA as we know it. Grab the tissues friends, you’ll need them!
This story was one of my highly anticipated reads of the year after TMA took me by storm last year. I wasn’t disappointed whatsoever and could not have asked for a better glimpse into Alana’s early life. Though her story is hard, and filled with struggle, and pain, it was no less beautiful. Her story is the true butterfly here. I saw pieces of myself in her healing that needed some sunlight, and reflection, which I always seem to find amidst Audrey’s heartfelt work. It was such an honor to get to read the ARC, and finally have this piece of Alana’s story that adds so much depth to her role in TMA! It has me wanting to reread TMA with this new set of eyes!
Thank you so much 1001 Dark Nights Blue Box Press and Audrey Carlan for this opportunity to read Madam Alana in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Well, Audrey has done it again! Another unputdownable book set in The Marriage Auction prequel timeline of our beloved Madam Alana’s very own auction journey. As always Audrey writes deeply honest, heartfelt stories filled with sisterhood, survival, growth and joy. Through Alana and Celine’s struggles, we see that though this world is dark, and scary, there are rays of hope in the people who love you, and see your true heart. Her main characters are always strong females, ones you’ll admire and you will root for them from page one. You won’t be able to make use of a bookmark as you are swept away into this world as Alana and Celine fight through their unique challenges. You’ll be dying to read what happens next because whether it be healing from past trauma, clawing out of bad situations, or learning to live on amidst grief and loss, this book is filled with hope amidst it all. Alana falls under all the above as our gentle yet heroic FMC, who is trying to find safety for her and Celine. She is thankfully picked by a French artist, and deep feeling gentleman in her auction, while we know from TMA, Celine isn’t so lucky. Christophe, Alana’s husband we know and love from TMA is a fictional man who you will want to leap from the pages into reality. A romantics dream MMC, he is soft hearted, wide open to love, and a fiercely kind man worthy of our Alana. He is as we know him in TMA, hell bent on showing her the self worth she’s never seen or felt, outside of the love she has with her soul sister Celine. Celine as we know from TMA had a hard road behind (an understatement) and even more tragedy ahead, but this fiercely loyal, optimistic fighter would have ripped her own heart out just to give our Alana that island fortress! Her story deserved to be told, and adds so much depth to how our Alana is (especially with certain characters) in TMA. Celine and her ARC truly shaped Alana and TMA as we know it. Grab the tissues friends, you’ll need them!
This story was one of my highly anticipated reads of the year after TMA took me by storm last year. I wasn’t disappointed whatsoever and could not have asked for a better glimpse into Alana’s early life. Though her story is hard, and filled with struggle, and pain, it was no less beautiful. Her story is the true butterfly here. I saw pieces of myself in her healing that needed some sunlight, and reflection, which I always seem to find amidst Audrey’s heartfelt work. It was such an honor to get to read the ARC, and finally have this piece of Alana’s story that adds so much depth to her role in TMA! It has me wanting to reread TMA with this new set of eyes!
Thank you so much 1001 Dark Nights Blue Box Press and Audrey Carlan for this opportunity to read Madam Alana in exchange for my honest thoughts.
April 27, 2023
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
Cocktails and Books received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect our opinion of the book or the content of our review.If you've read the Marriage Auction series, you know who Madam Alana is. One of the first season's books hinted that she had gone through the auction process and lost her best friend. We go back thirty years to get her story.
A younger Alana is a bit shy and reserved. Rightly so, she didn't have the easiest life. But she boards a flight to Vegas with her best friend Celine, and hands over what little money they did have to find a husband and get some financial security. Celine was all in, fully embracing what they were about to do because she saw the money at the rainbow's end. Alana wasn't really sure she trusted the process and was afraid of what they might be getting into.
Alana found her perfect match with Christophe. The younger version of him was exactly as I expected. He was attentive, loving and did whatever he could to support Alana. All he wanted was her faith, trust and eventually her heart. He was willing to give her whatever time she needed to adjust to their new situation. He wooed her....which is exactly what Alana needed. She needed to know that she was loveable, that she was worth more than the cost he paid at the auction. He showed her.
Celine's part of the story was tragic. Again, we had hints that something horrible had happened. But what did was horrible and the turning point for Alana to put those business classes she had started taking to use and build her empire.
If you enjoy the Marriage Auction series, this is a must-read. Madam Alana may come off as a cool cucumber, but there is a reason behind it and the vow she made that those mistakes will never happen again.
Cocktails and Books received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect our opinion of the book or the content of our review.If you've read the Marriage Auction series, you know who Madam Alana is. One of the first season's books hinted that she had gone through the auction process and lost her best friend. We go back thirty years to get her story.
A younger Alana is a bit shy and reserved. Rightly so, she didn't have the easiest life. But she boards a flight to Vegas with her best friend Celine, and hands over what little money they did have to find a husband and get some financial security. Celine was all in, fully embracing what they were about to do because she saw the money at the rainbow's end. Alana wasn't really sure she trusted the process and was afraid of what they might be getting into.
Alana found her perfect match with Christophe. The younger version of him was exactly as I expected. He was attentive, loving and did whatever he could to support Alana. All he wanted was her faith, trust and eventually her heart. He was willing to give her whatever time she needed to adjust to their new situation. He wooed her....which is exactly what Alana needed. She needed to know that she was loveable, that she was worth more than the cost he paid at the auction. He showed her.
Celine's part of the story was tragic. Again, we had hints that something horrible had happened. But what did was horrible and the turning point for Alana to put those business classes she had started taking to use and build her empire.
If you enjoy the Marriage Auction series, this is a must-read. Madam Alana may come off as a cool cucumber, but there is a reason behind it and the vow she made that those mistakes will never happen again.
April 25, 2023
Holy. Cow. I’m just….wow. I just set this book down and I’m speechless. I don’t even know where to start to process the beauty, love, and tragedy that Audrey Carlan has managed to created with Madam Alana, a novella prequel to her #1 Vella novel The Marriage Auction.
Fans who have read TMA on Vella or as a novel already know what happens (I won’t say it for those who are starting here before reading TMA). We finally get the story of Madam Alana’s own auction and how/why she became Madam Alana in the first place. I am not typically a crier while I’m reading a novel and I was a hot mess for the last 3 chapters. Even knowing what was going to happen I was still unprepared to experience it first hand. Brava! I was placed solidly in my feels by the way Audrey paints such a vivid picture of what is happening. From the nerve-wracking opening where we sense Alana’s desperation, to falling in love with Christophe right along with Alana, to having our hearts wrenched out along with her too…speechless doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Fans who have read TMA on Vella or as a novel already know what happens (I won’t say it for those who are starting here before reading TMA). We finally get the story of Madam Alana’s own auction and how/why she became Madam Alana in the first place. I am not typically a crier while I’m reading a novel and I was a hot mess for the last 3 chapters. Even knowing what was going to happen I was still unprepared to experience it first hand. Brava! I was placed solidly in my feels by the way Audrey paints such a vivid picture of what is happening. From the nerve-wracking opening where we sense Alana’s desperation, to falling in love with Christophe right along with Alana, to having our hearts wrenched out along with her too…speechless doesn’t even begin to cover it.
April 25, 2023
Madam Alana was an explosion of emotions that hit me right in the heart and nestled deep within my soul! I have loved Madam Alana since I met her in The Marriage Auction and couldn’t wait to hear her backstory. You learn where she came from, what she endured and how she ended up in this life. This novella is basically the prequel to TMA, but you don’t need to have read that at all to read this. But if you have read that, you will be so excited to get your hands on Alana’s story! She is beauty & grace but also fire and determination. Add in her amazing man Christophe & SWOON!! I fell for the sexy man with the gorgeous accent who adores his wife & nourishes all of her dreams! I definitely know after reading this story, every woman needs a Madam Alana in their life because they will have a protective, loving friend forever! Oh, and if I wasn’t already happily married, I’d want to join The Marriage Auction myself!
Tracey, Life Reads With Friends Book Blog
Tracey, Life Reads With Friends Book Blog
April 14, 2023
Madam Alana
Audrey Carlan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMG I have no words…. How do I create a review that even comes close to what this story deserves! Absolutely beautiful while beyond devastating. If you’ve read the Marriage Auction volume 1, you will know madam Alana. She’s fierce, she’s feisty and she’s gorgeous. But Madam Alana didn’t come from the perfect world, her growing up was aweful at best, looking for a new future her and best friend Celine, they enter a Marriage Auction, and while Alana won the husband jackpot the same couldn’t be said for Celine.
This story follows quickly the months proceeding the marriage of Alana and Christophe, their finder comfort with each other, his openness to Alana, their future, his breaking down her walls while discovering her torrid past and the beauty of real love. I adored Christophe, his clear love for Alana from that first sight, my ovaries may have exploded a bit…
Sadly while Alana’s relationship was perfection the same couldn’t be said for Celine, her marriage was start of what could only be described as criminal. Seeing her scars right there in front of my was hard to handle, it’s not hearts and flowers….. it if a positive could come from a negative it was seeing Alana turn from a scared kitten to a jungle lion, the reason she is the stunning, kind and formidable woman, women now come to for help, a new future, and the men who are searching for that woman to no longer claim but to have a future with.
Something like a Marriage Auction, can be sad, torrid, and humiliating, but Audrey Carlan has put a new spin on it in the form of Madam Alana… bravo! Girlpower!
Audrey Carlan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OMG I have no words…. How do I create a review that even comes close to what this story deserves! Absolutely beautiful while beyond devastating. If you’ve read the Marriage Auction volume 1, you will know madam Alana. She’s fierce, she’s feisty and she’s gorgeous. But Madam Alana didn’t come from the perfect world, her growing up was aweful at best, looking for a new future her and best friend Celine, they enter a Marriage Auction, and while Alana won the husband jackpot the same couldn’t be said for Celine.
This story follows quickly the months proceeding the marriage of Alana and Christophe, their finder comfort with each other, his openness to Alana, their future, his breaking down her walls while discovering her torrid past and the beauty of real love. I adored Christophe, his clear love for Alana from that first sight, my ovaries may have exploded a bit…
Sadly while Alana’s relationship was perfection the same couldn’t be said for Celine, her marriage was start of what could only be described as criminal. Seeing her scars right there in front of my was hard to handle, it’s not hearts and flowers….. it if a positive could come from a negative it was seeing Alana turn from a scared kitten to a jungle lion, the reason she is the stunning, kind and formidable woman, women now come to for help, a new future, and the men who are searching for that woman to no longer claim but to have a future with.
Something like a Marriage Auction, can be sad, torrid, and humiliating, but Audrey Carlan has put a new spin on it in the form of Madam Alana… bravo! Girlpower!
April 21, 2023
Wow! What an amazing job Carlan does with this short novella. We get the insight to how Alana came to be Madam Alana. This book is the prequel to The Marriage Auction Series, and takes place 30 years prior. This story will break you and put you back together again in one read. Carlan tells a heart breaking tale, but then gives us light, hope, and love. So many struggles that Alana faced growing up with her best friend Celine. She was also part of the auction in the beginning. We follow her on this roller coaster of a story as she navigates an arraigned marriage, finding herself, showing her grit, toughness, bravery and finding love and support from a man that is so swoon-worthy. Christophe is just such a gentleman. But, don’t be fooled this story will have you turning the pages, laughing, crying, and wanting more. Such a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
April 16, 2023
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Audrey Carlan comes a new story in her Marriage Auction series…
Madam Alana runs one of the most elite marriage auctions in the world. The candidates and bidders come from all over the world to participate. The goal is to creat a perfect match between bidder and contestant ending in a three year marriage contract that’s mutually beneficial.
Before I took over things were run differently, haphazardly and with everything in the bidders favor. I’ve fixed that and now it’s fair for all parties. But this came at a great cost. This is my story.
I loved madam Alana in the Marriage Auction and was so excited to get a chance to read about her origin story! What a fun read. Audrey Carlan has truly created something magical with this series and I love it. The writing is done in the same easy and wonderful way as I’ve come to expect. This one comes in just under 150 pages so I was worried we wouldn’t get enough about Alana but it was perfectly and artfully done and showed full character development.
I really enjoyed this one and hope you grab a copy for yourself.
Thank you so much to @1001darknights_blueboxpress for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Madam Alana runs one of the most elite marriage auctions in the world. The candidates and bidders come from all over the world to participate. The goal is to creat a perfect match between bidder and contestant ending in a three year marriage contract that’s mutually beneficial.
Before I took over things were run differently, haphazardly and with everything in the bidders favor. I’ve fixed that and now it’s fair for all parties. But this came at a great cost. This is my story.
I loved madam Alana in the Marriage Auction and was so excited to get a chance to read about her origin story! What a fun read. Audrey Carlan has truly created something magical with this series and I love it. The writing is done in the same easy and wonderful way as I’ve come to expect. This one comes in just under 150 pages so I was worried we wouldn’t get enough about Alana but it was perfectly and artfully done and showed full character development.
I really enjoyed this one and hope you grab a copy for yourself.
Thank you so much to @1001darknights_blueboxpress for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2023
Madame Alana: Marriage Auction Novella
Alana’s story is a window to the past, one filled with survival, strength, and pure determination to find love and a beautiful future.
Lives are filled with ups and downs, friends and foes, and twists and turns. Alana, along with her best friend Celine, has survived the harsh streets of New York and has been given the opportunity to attend “The Marriage Auction”.
While at the auction, Alana hears a deep, intense voice whisper in French amazing words all directed at her. A lovely chill runs down her spine when she realizes that this man has just bid on her to become his wife.
Alana is chosen by Christophe, a French artist, to become his wife. Christophe a romantic knew Alana was his new muse the moment he saw her. Alana ignited the artist in him and made his heart weep with a profound love.
Beside Christophe, Alana begins to see that her past does not define her, her future is bright and in the face of tragedy you can find a sense of peace within your broken soul.
As Madam Alana’s story unfolds the reader learns of the undying love Alana has for her friend Celine. Celine, on the same night as Alana, left the auction with a new husband. Unfortunately, she was not as lucky to find someone that was passionate, caring, and a true gentleman. Alana and Christophe try to bring Celine into their world before tragedy strikes. Alana’s heartbroken over the loss of her friend. This leads her to taking over the Marriage Auction.
Audrey Carlan never disappoints. This novella is a beautiful love story that sets up all the love stories that come after found in the Marriage Auction series.
Alana’s story is a window to the past, one filled with survival, strength, and pure determination to find love and a beautiful future.
Lives are filled with ups and downs, friends and foes, and twists and turns. Alana, along with her best friend Celine, has survived the harsh streets of New York and has been given the opportunity to attend “The Marriage Auction”.
While at the auction, Alana hears a deep, intense voice whisper in French amazing words all directed at her. A lovely chill runs down her spine when she realizes that this man has just bid on her to become his wife.
Alana is chosen by Christophe, a French artist, to become his wife. Christophe a romantic knew Alana was his new muse the moment he saw her. Alana ignited the artist in him and made his heart weep with a profound love.
Beside Christophe, Alana begins to see that her past does not define her, her future is bright and in the face of tragedy you can find a sense of peace within your broken soul.
As Madam Alana’s story unfolds the reader learns of the undying love Alana has for her friend Celine. Celine, on the same night as Alana, left the auction with a new husband. Unfortunately, she was not as lucky to find someone that was passionate, caring, and a true gentleman. Alana and Christophe try to bring Celine into their world before tragedy strikes. Alana’s heartbroken over the loss of her friend. This leads her to taking over the Marriage Auction.
Audrey Carlan never disappoints. This novella is a beautiful love story that sets up all the love stories that come after found in the Marriage Auction series.
April 25, 2023
What can I say about this book. I couldn't put it down. It kept me turning the pages, I had a couple of late nights, lol. One more chapter is all I could say.
It's one of my favorites of this series
This series is sexy fast paced
Romantic seen are out of this world, and sign me up, lol.
It's absolutely perfect
I couldn't stop thinking about this series,I was sad it came to an end.
Lastly, trust me, get this hot ,sexy out of this world series . You will not be sorry.
It's one of my favorites of this series
This series is sexy fast paced
Romantic seen are out of this world, and sign me up, lol.
It's absolutely perfect
I couldn't stop thinking about this series,I was sad it came to an end.
Lastly, trust me, get this hot ,sexy out of this world series . You will not be sorry.
April 16, 2023
This story follows Alana and how she came to be the Madam of a marriage auction. We learn of her terrible past and of the love and friendship she has with her best friend Celine. The friends decide on a plan to participate in the auction and create a better life for themselves. Through the auction, Alana is paired with Christophe, who is Parisian, rich, and handsome. Sounds way to good to be true!
This novella kept me interested from the first word. I just had to know what happened and if Alana would get her happily ever after!
Thank you so much to Audrey Carlan for the ARC. I enjoyed getting to know Alana’s backstory and how she came to run the most elite auction in the world!
This novella kept me interested from the first word. I just had to know what happened and if Alana would get her happily ever after!
Thank you so much to Audrey Carlan for the ARC. I enjoyed getting to know Alana’s backstory and how she came to run the most elite auction in the world!
April 29, 2025
Madam Alana: A Marriage Auction Novella by Audrey Carlan (2023)
Marriage Auction #4.5
1001 Dark Nights
+128-page Kindle Ebook story ends on 110
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Prequel, Novella
Featuring: Book Description, Author's Links, Bibliography for Audrey Carlan, Discover More 1001 Dark Nights Authors - List and Links, Discover More Blue Box Press Authors - List and Links, Table of Contents, Forward - One Thousand and One Dark Nights, Note to Readers/Content Warnings, Contract Marriages, Las Vegas, Nevada; Korean Decent, Titled Chapters, Bad Childhoods, Prostitution, South Korea, New York City, New York; French, Paris, France; Secrets, Assault, Better Life, Sisterhood, Affluent People, Sex - Detailed, Sexual Assault - Past, Child Abuse - Past, Timeline Jumps, Cliffhanger - To Be Continued, Links to The Marriage Auction Novella by Audrey Carlan, Link to 1001 Dark Nights Newsletter, Series List for 1001 Dark Nights Collection Ten, Blurb and Chapter 1 Preview of The Marriage Auction by Audrey Carlan, Links to All of the collections for 1001 Dark Nights, Publisher's Links
Books and Authors mentioned: Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton, Sleepless in Seattle by Nora Ephron
Rating as a movie: XX
Memorable Quotes: “Well, I’m originally from South Korea, though my ethnicity is half South Korean, half Irish and German.”
Quickly, I picked up a smooth rock and then a rough, jagged one I’d spotted and put it into my small purse for safe keeping. I liked to gather a keepsake from everywhere I went. I had a rock from a small pond back where I was born in Korea. Another from the land around the orphanage. An interesting piece of washed-up coral from the shore in New York, and now a couple pieces of the Grand Canyon. One piece I’d give to Christophe later so he could keep his own collection if he desired.
Christophe grabbed his plate and assessed its girth. “I love Americans and their extravagance with portions. You always finish a meal here full as can be.”
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️🇰🇷🇺🇲👰🏻♀️💍🇫🇷
My thoughts:🔖Page 36 of 128 Chapter 6 The Value of a Heart - This isn't as exciting as the book, but it's better than the rest of my current rotation. I may be reading Season 2 sooner than expected.
🔖97 Chapter 14 She Didn’t Come Back - This has several plotholes and once you toss out logic it's still just okay.
The 1001 backstory was interesting, unfortunately for me, the background story of Alana just made no sense so I had a hard time buying it and staying engrossed in the story. The story The Marriage Auction alluded to was far more interesting than the story they drummed up her. I'm going to start Season 2 sooner than expected.
Recommend to others: You might as well, it was just okay but still better than on the books in my current rotation that may get abandoned.
Marriage Auction
1. The Marriage Auction: Book One
2. The Marriage Auction: Book Two
3. The Marriage Auction: Book Three
4. The Marriage Auction: Book Four
4.5 Madam Alana: A Marriage Auction Novella
5. The Marriage Auction 2, Book One
6. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Two
7. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Three
8. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Four
8.5 A Christmas Auction: A Marriage Auction Novella
Marriage Auction
1. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume One (2023)
2. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume Two (2023)
3. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume Three (2023)
4. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume Four (2023)
Madam Alana (2023)
A Christmas Auction (2024)
Marriage Auction 2
1. The Marriage Auction 2, Book One (2024)
2. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Two (2024)
3. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Three (2024)
4. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Four (2024)
1001 Dark Nights Collection Ten
DRAGON LOVER by Donna Grant A Dragon Kings Novella
KEEPING YOU by Aurora Rose Reynolds An Until Him/Her Novella
HAPPILY EVER NEVER by Carrie Ann Ryan A Montgomery Ink Legacy Novella
DESTINED FOR ME by Corinne Michaels A Come Back for Me/Say You’ll Stay Crossover
MADAM ALANA by Audrey Carlan A Marriage Auction Novella
DIRTY FILTHY BILLIONAIRE by Laurelin Paige A Dirty Universe Novella
HIDE AND SEEK by Laura Kaye A Blasphemy Novella
TANGLED WITH YOU by J. Kenner A Stark Security Novella
TEMPTED by Lexi Blake A Masters and Mercenaries Novella
THE DANDELION DIARY by Devney Perry A Maysen Jar Novella
CHERRY LANE by Kristen Proby A Huckleberry Bay Novella
THE GRAVE ROBBER by Darynda Jones A Charley Davidson Novella
CRY OF THE BANSHEE by Heather Graham A Krewe of Hunters Novella
DARKEST NEED by Rachel Van Dyken A Dark Ones Novella
CHRISTMAS IN CAPE MAY by Jennifer Probst A Sunshine Sisters Novella
A VAMPIRE’S MATE by Rebecca Zanetti A Dark Protectors/Rebels Novella
WHERE IT BEGINS by Helena Hunting A Pucked Novella
Also from Blue Box Press
THE MARRIAGE AUCTION by Audrey Carlan Season One, Volume One Season One, Volume Two Season One, Volume Three Season One, Volume Four
THE JEWELER OF STOLEN DREAMS by M.J. Rose
SAPPHIRE STORM by Christopher Rice writing as C. Travis Rice A Sapphire Cove Novel
ATLAS: THE STORY OF PA SALT by Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker
LOVE ON THE BYLINE by Xio Axelrod A Plays and Players Novel
A SOUL OF ASH AND BLOOD by Jennifer L. Armentrout A Blood and Ash Novel
FIGHTING THE PULL by Kristen Ashley A River Rain Novel
VISIONS OF FLESH AND BLOOD by Jennifer L. Armentrout and Rayvn Salvador
A Blood and Ash/Flesh and Fire Compendium
A FIRE IN THE FLESH by Jennifer L. Armentrout A Flesh and Fire Novel
Marriage Auction #4.5
1001 Dark Nights
+128-page Kindle Ebook story ends on 110
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Prequel, Novella
Featuring: Book Description, Author's Links, Bibliography for Audrey Carlan, Discover More 1001 Dark Nights Authors - List and Links, Discover More Blue Box Press Authors - List and Links, Table of Contents, Forward - One Thousand and One Dark Nights, Note to Readers/Content Warnings, Contract Marriages, Las Vegas, Nevada; Korean Decent, Titled Chapters, Bad Childhoods, Prostitution, South Korea, New York City, New York; French, Paris, France; Secrets, Assault, Better Life, Sisterhood, Affluent People, Sex - Detailed, Sexual Assault - Past, Child Abuse - Past, Timeline Jumps, Cliffhanger - To Be Continued, Links to The Marriage Auction Novella by Audrey Carlan, Link to 1001 Dark Nights Newsletter, Series List for 1001 Dark Nights Collection Ten, Blurb and Chapter 1 Preview of The Marriage Auction by Audrey Carlan, Links to All of the collections for 1001 Dark Nights, Publisher's Links
Books and Authors mentioned: Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton, Sleepless in Seattle by Nora Ephron
Rating as a movie: XX
Memorable Quotes: “Well, I’m originally from South Korea, though my ethnicity is half South Korean, half Irish and German.”
Quickly, I picked up a smooth rock and then a rough, jagged one I’d spotted and put it into my small purse for safe keeping. I liked to gather a keepsake from everywhere I went. I had a rock from a small pond back where I was born in Korea. Another from the land around the orphanage. An interesting piece of washed-up coral from the shore in New York, and now a couple pieces of the Grand Canyon. One piece I’d give to Christophe later so he could keep his own collection if he desired.
Christophe grabbed his plate and assessed its girth. “I love Americans and their extravagance with portions. You always finish a meal here full as can be.”
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️🇰🇷🇺🇲👰🏻♀️💍🇫🇷
My thoughts:🔖Page 36 of 128 Chapter 6 The Value of a Heart - This isn't as exciting as the book, but it's better than the rest of my current rotation. I may be reading Season 2 sooner than expected.
🔖97 Chapter 14 She Didn’t Come Back - This has several plotholes and once you toss out logic it's still just okay.
The 1001 backstory was interesting, unfortunately for me, the background story of Alana just made no sense so I had a hard time buying it and staying engrossed in the story. The story The Marriage Auction alluded to was far more interesting than the story they drummed up her. I'm going to start Season 2 sooner than expected.
Recommend to others: You might as well, it was just okay but still better than on the books in my current rotation that may get abandoned.
Marriage Auction
1. The Marriage Auction: Book One
2. The Marriage Auction: Book Two
3. The Marriage Auction: Book Three
4. The Marriage Auction: Book Four
4.5 Madam Alana: A Marriage Auction Novella
5. The Marriage Auction 2, Book One
6. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Two
7. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Three
8. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Four
8.5 A Christmas Auction: A Marriage Auction Novella
Marriage Auction
1. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume One (2023)
2. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume Two (2023)
3. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume Three (2023)
4. The Marriage Auction: Season One, Volume Four (2023)
Madam Alana (2023)
A Christmas Auction (2024)
Marriage Auction 2
1. The Marriage Auction 2, Book One (2024)
2. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Two (2024)
3. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Three (2024)
4. The Marriage Auction 2, Book Four (2024)
1001 Dark Nights Collection Ten
DRAGON LOVER by Donna Grant A Dragon Kings Novella
KEEPING YOU by Aurora Rose Reynolds An Until Him/Her Novella
HAPPILY EVER NEVER by Carrie Ann Ryan A Montgomery Ink Legacy Novella
DESTINED FOR ME by Corinne Michaels A Come Back for Me/Say You’ll Stay Crossover
MADAM ALANA by Audrey Carlan A Marriage Auction Novella
DIRTY FILTHY BILLIONAIRE by Laurelin Paige A Dirty Universe Novella
HIDE AND SEEK by Laura Kaye A Blasphemy Novella
TANGLED WITH YOU by J. Kenner A Stark Security Novella
TEMPTED by Lexi Blake A Masters and Mercenaries Novella
THE DANDELION DIARY by Devney Perry A Maysen Jar Novella
CHERRY LANE by Kristen Proby A Huckleberry Bay Novella
THE GRAVE ROBBER by Darynda Jones A Charley Davidson Novella
CRY OF THE BANSHEE by Heather Graham A Krewe of Hunters Novella
DARKEST NEED by Rachel Van Dyken A Dark Ones Novella
CHRISTMAS IN CAPE MAY by Jennifer Probst A Sunshine Sisters Novella
A VAMPIRE’S MATE by Rebecca Zanetti A Dark Protectors/Rebels Novella
WHERE IT BEGINS by Helena Hunting A Pucked Novella
Also from Blue Box Press
THE MARRIAGE AUCTION by Audrey Carlan Season One, Volume One Season One, Volume Two Season One, Volume Three Season One, Volume Four
THE JEWELER OF STOLEN DREAMS by M.J. Rose
SAPPHIRE STORM by Christopher Rice writing as C. Travis Rice A Sapphire Cove Novel
ATLAS: THE STORY OF PA SALT by Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker
LOVE ON THE BYLINE by Xio Axelrod A Plays and Players Novel
A SOUL OF ASH AND BLOOD by Jennifer L. Armentrout A Blood and Ash Novel
FIGHTING THE PULL by Kristen Ashley A River Rain Novel
VISIONS OF FLESH AND BLOOD by Jennifer L. Armentrout and Rayvn Salvador
A Blood and Ash/Flesh and Fire Compendium
A FIRE IN THE FLESH by Jennifer L. Armentrout A Flesh and Fire Novel
April 25, 2023
This short novella provides insight into Madam Alana, a character from The Marriage Auction, as a prequel to her current position as the head of one of the most prestigious marriage auctions across the globe. In this novella, we get to see how Alana got her start, from her tumultuous start to life, to being in a marriage action herself, with her closest friend, Celine. Christophe, the man who buys Alana at action, shows her what it means to love unconditionally, being cared for with the upmost respect from her new husband. We also learn about the future for Celine, and the actions that occur to motivate her to become the Madam of the Marriage Auction.
I couldn’t put this book down and finished it in one sitting. While a shorter novella, it captured my attention from the first page and made me feel all the highs and lows that Alana herself felt as she navigated through her early life into the woman she became, Madam Alana.
I couldn’t put this book down and finished it in one sitting. While a shorter novella, it captured my attention from the first page and made me feel all the highs and lows that Alana herself felt as she navigated through her early life into the woman she became, Madam Alana.
April 28, 2023
▌║▌║ 🎀🎀 𝙈𝙖𝙙𝙖𝙢 𝘼𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙖║▌║▌
𝙗𝙮 𝘼𝙪𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙮 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙖𝙣
🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀
5/5
I received this from 1001 Dark Nights & Blue Box Press, in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is another story in the marriage auction series.
Madam Alana runs the most elite auction house in the world. She brings couples together in a mutually beneficial, legally binding marriage. The terms are three years, and no less than a million dollars a year, no including the house commission. This is Alana and Christophe’s story.
Madam Alana, was just Alana when she was purchased in a marriage auction. She had no idea what to expect, and she definitely didn’t expect to find her soulmate.
This is a novella, but Audrey Carlan was able to pack so much emotion, into this story. I loved getting a deeper look into the marriage auction world.
𝙗𝙮 𝘼𝙪𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙮 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙖𝙣
🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀
5/5
I received this from 1001 Dark Nights & Blue Box Press, in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is another story in the marriage auction series.
Madam Alana runs the most elite auction house in the world. She brings couples together in a mutually beneficial, legally binding marriage. The terms are three years, and no less than a million dollars a year, no including the house commission. This is Alana and Christophe’s story.
Madam Alana, was just Alana when she was purchased in a marriage auction. She had no idea what to expect, and she definitely didn’t expect to find her soulmate.
This is a novella, but Audrey Carlan was able to pack so much emotion, into this story. I loved getting a deeper look into the marriage auction world.
April 24, 2023
First I met Madam Alana was in The Marriage Auction - where she was wery proctive off the girls entering in TMA. You feel that there's something behind it all. Something there started it all.
It's not often I get so emotional reading a book. But this one made me shed a tear, okay maybe more than that!..
So mutch feelings and so good at the same time.
If you read TMA, then you need to read this too! - No matter what you need to read this and The Marriage Auction! You will love it!
It's not often I get so emotional reading a book. But this one made me shed a tear, okay maybe more than that!..
So mutch feelings and so good at the same time.
If you read TMA, then you need to read this too! - No matter what you need to read this and The Marriage Auction! You will love it!
April 26, 2023
TERRIFYINGLY AWESOME READ!
This novella totally transported me to another place and time. One in which I have never experienced. Reading Alana and Celine’s story is a beautifully tragic one and pulled my heart strings all over the place. I absolutely adore Christophe. He is the greatest form of human being possible. Written so very well and very informative too.
This novella totally transported me to another place and time. One in which I have never experienced. Reading Alana and Celine’s story is a beautifully tragic one and pulled my heart strings all over the place. I absolutely adore Christophe. He is the greatest form of human being possible. Written so very well and very informative too.
April 25, 2023
Wow! I am writing this with tears in my eyes. This novella touched my heart.
I do want to give TW for abuse and SA.
This a story of young women wanting to do better for their lives.
Following Alana’s Journey in this novella was very emotional.
I loved Alana’s story a Prequel the Marriage Auction Series.
This book is a beautiful story of Love, Loss, Strength and New Beginnings.
I do want to give TW for abuse and SA.
This a story of young women wanting to do better for their lives.
Following Alana’s Journey in this novella was very emotional.
I loved Alana’s story a Prequel the Marriage Auction Series.
This book is a beautiful story of Love, Loss, Strength and New Beginnings.
April 25, 2023
Wow!! So much love and destruction. The love out ways it all. Two best friends one who tragically lost, the other who found love. This novella is phenomenal. Read the triggers first. Definitely glad to have Alana side and would love more of these best friends.
April 24, 2023
I loved season one of TMA so I had no doubt I would love this little peak into how Madam Alana got her start. It is touched upon in TMA the why and how but I loved getting to see how her journey in this world started. I want more of her & Christo!! It was a bittersweet ending that had me crying sad tears, but that’s ok some times because I know she’s blissfully happy now :)
April 26, 2023
Audrey! You slayed me with this book! I laughed, cried, and just wanted to stop reading (only in the way I don't want it to end)
April 26, 2023
OMG! So good, really enjoyed the backstory to fill in some Marriage Auction info! Highly recommend!
March 18, 2025
Definitely happy to read (consume more like) this novella and get a feel on how everything started. Learning the background of the Madam herself. This whole series has been such an adventure.
May 23, 2025
Another fantastic book by Audrey Carlan!! I love this whole series and desperately need a third book in The Marriage Auction series!!
April 25, 2023
Absolute perfection !!
Get the family a pizza because you will not be able to put this done. The character development pulls you in completely that will make you laugh, cry, smile & everything in between. The author Audrey creates this storyline that flows & the end result is arguably her most well written novel yet. Because this is a standalone prequel to the Marriage Auction, if you haven’t yet read those, you will be diving right into because you will read how her vision became real & how she executed becoming “Madam Alana”
The only downside to the book is that it does have an end……for now. I only gave it 5 stars because it didn’t allow for more
Get the family a pizza because you will not be able to put this done. The character development pulls you in completely that will make you laugh, cry, smile & everything in between. The author Audrey creates this storyline that flows & the end result is arguably her most well written novel yet. Because this is a standalone prequel to the Marriage Auction, if you haven’t yet read those, you will be diving right into because you will read how her vision became real & how she executed becoming “Madam Alana”
The only downside to the book is that it does have an end……for now. I only gave it 5 stars because it didn’t allow for more
April 22, 2023
Since I adored Alana & Christophe in The Marriage Auction Vol 1, I loved reading about how their love affair started.
Alana’s background has shaped her into such a strong woman; made that much stronger by the love and support of Christophe.
Alana’s background has shaped her into such a strong woman; made that much stronger by the love and support of Christophe.
April 21, 2023
Loved hearing the beginning of the marriage auction. Everything about this story made me want to know more. They ups and down and the dynamic drama that Alana faced. I could not get enough. I highly recommend this story to others and this series.
April 25, 2023
I am a big fan of The Marriage Auction and this is a prequel to this series. This novella could be read as a stand-alone. It does have some intense scenes that include abuse Madame Alana ultimately has a good message and Alana and Christophe do something positive from a bad situation. I highly recommend this novella. I can’t wait for more books in this series!
April 16, 2023
Amazing! Great story! Loved reading about how Madam Alana became a bad ass business woman, and how she met the love of her life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2023
Have you ever read a book that was so profound? Where the pages grab ahold of you and don't let go? Everything about the story felt real and raw. Unfortunately, some of the topics mentioned are real to others. Something you would never wish upon your worst enemy. With that being said, I love how Audrey Carlan was capable of telling a story that weaved a wide variety emotions but left you with the feeling of peace at the end. Well done. 👏
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