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Once Upon a Betrothal
From USA TODAY Bestselling author Christi Caldwell comes the return of the Scandalous Seasons Series. Be swept away in the passion, drama, and splendor of Regency England, where the ballrooms glitter and the dukes are sexy and brooding, and the ladies dare to love.
Once Upon a Betrothal
Frigid temperatures and an even more frigid reception...
Broden Burgess anticipated this upon returning to Society after his ignominious imprisonment and a loss that froze his heart. A logical fellow, Broden expects to never fall in love or marry. What he doesn’t expect is Miss Elyse Caldecott.
Elyse is determined not to attend a powerful nobleman's holiday party, but her family forces her to go in a transparent effort to marry her to the host’s criminal son. For his part, Broden has no interest in his parents’ surprise for him, inviting some desperate spinster and her kin to their annual celebration. But Broden dodges that contemptible evening, or so he thinks, when a blizzard forces him to take shelter at an inn on the way to his family’s home.
At this inn, Broden encounters a tart-mouthed beauty, not recognizing her as the match his parents have made for him. Elyse certainly meets her match in a hostile greeting as crackling as the logs roaring in the hearth.
It isn't long before a strong-willed Elyse and Broden, begin to warm to one another, and even regret having to say goodbye.
When they meet up again at the same house-party, sparks fly, once more.
But does that same heat have the power to thaw two wounded hearts? Or for Broden and Elyse, will the fear of losing again make the possibility of love a cold comfort?
Scandalous Seasons
Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride
Never Courted, Suddenly Wed
Always Proper, Suddenly Scandalous,
Always a Rogue, Forever Her Love
A Marquess for Christmas
Once a Wallflower, At Last His Love
Endlessly Courted, Finally Loved
Once a Rake, Suddenly a Suitor
Once Upon a Betrothal
Once Upon a Betrothal
Frigid temperatures and an even more frigid reception...
Broden Burgess anticipated this upon returning to Society after his ignominious imprisonment and a loss that froze his heart. A logical fellow, Broden expects to never fall in love or marry. What he doesn’t expect is Miss Elyse Caldecott.
Elyse is determined not to attend a powerful nobleman's holiday party, but her family forces her to go in a transparent effort to marry her to the host’s criminal son. For his part, Broden has no interest in his parents’ surprise for him, inviting some desperate spinster and her kin to their annual celebration. But Broden dodges that contemptible evening, or so he thinks, when a blizzard forces him to take shelter at an inn on the way to his family’s home.
At this inn, Broden encounters a tart-mouthed beauty, not recognizing her as the match his parents have made for him. Elyse certainly meets her match in a hostile greeting as crackling as the logs roaring in the hearth.
It isn't long before a strong-willed Elyse and Broden, begin to warm to one another, and even regret having to say goodbye.
When they meet up again at the same house-party, sparks fly, once more.
But does that same heat have the power to thaw two wounded hearts? Or for Broden and Elyse, will the fear of losing again make the possibility of love a cold comfort?
Scandalous Seasons
Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride
Never Courted, Suddenly Wed
Always Proper, Suddenly Scandalous,
Always a Rogue, Forever Her Love
A Marquess for Christmas
Once a Wallflower, At Last His Love
Endlessly Courted, Finally Loved
Once a Rake, Suddenly a Suitor
Once Upon a Betrothal
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2023
251 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,561 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 19, 2023
This is my 83rd book by Christi Caldwell. I read 2 books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again to read faithfully until 2015. She is such a good author and I love her writing. She always has great stories and depending on the book, well written sex scenes (some don't have much and some even had none) but I enjoy her writing so much, I didn't mind.
I loved Broden and Elyse. I loved their story and their chemistry. I love how open they were with each other. I actually had tear a time or two and I very rarely cry when reading a book. It was so well written and just a great read.
Book 6 of this series was written back in 2015. Book 7 and 8 and now this one were all written just this year and I don't remember the other books 1-6 but these last 3 books in the series have been fantastic and so damn good.
I loved Broden and Elyse. I loved their story and their chemistry. I love how open they were with each other. I actually had tear a time or two and I very rarely cry when reading a book. It was so well written and just a great read.
Book 6 of this series was written back in 2015. Book 7 and 8 and now this one were all written just this year and I don't remember the other books 1-6 but these last 3 books in the series have been fantastic and so damn good.
January 12, 2024
Talk about emotional.... loved it! Of course 5☆
December 17, 2023
Broden Burgess anticipated a cool reception upon returning to Society after his ignominious imprisonment and a loss that froze his heart. A logical fellow, Broden expects to never fall in love or marry. What he doesn’t expect is Miss Elyse Caldecott. Elyse is determined not to attend a powerful nobleman's holiday party, but her family forces her to go. Then a blizzard forces him to take shelter at an inn on the way to his family’s home. At this inn, Broden encounters a tart-mouthed beauty, not recognizing her as the match his parents have made for him. It isn't long before a strong-willed Elyse and Broden, begin to warm to one another, and even regret having to say goodbye. When they meet up again at the same house-party, sparks fly, once more.
Another lovely romance from the author, brilliant characters & a well paced story had me devouring it in an afternoon. I loved both Broden & Elyse both had suffered loss, I loved how they gradually opened their hearts to each other, their banter was witty & the chemistry sizzled, I loved their journey to a HEA & yes it’s another tear jerker so have the hankies handy
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Another lovely romance from the author, brilliant characters & a well paced story had me devouring it in an afternoon. I loved both Broden & Elyse both had suffered loss, I loved how they gradually opened their hearts to each other, their banter was witty & the chemistry sizzled, I loved their journey to a HEA & yes it’s another tear jerker so have the hankies handy
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 24, 2023
An emotional love story involves a third son and a viscount's daughter. Their families plan their match, but both are planning to rebuff each other. A snow storm leaves them meeting at an inn, but neither knows their real names. Afraid to love after loss and pain, love has a way of sneaking up on you. Caldwell never disappoints with a book guaranteed to keep you up all night.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 17, 2023
I love the way two people, perfectly content to be alone, stumble upon each other on their way to the unpleasant task of an arranged marriage. Without the bias of the situation, and without knowing they are the person they are dreading meeting, they discover they like each other. Deeper scars hold them back, but even their own personal demons aren’t strong enough to keep them apart.
May 1, 2024
prejudice against Scottish by English
The H sees his father and brother hung. His property is confiscated and he is deported to Australia. All innocent. Bad guys get away with it. Not a light read. Sad, really. h and H fall in love, but other than that it’s pretty horrific.
The H sees his father and brother hung. His property is confiscated and he is deported to Australia. All innocent. Bad guys get away with it. Not a light read. Sad, really. h and H fall in love, but other than that it’s pretty horrific.
December 27, 2023
This is a delightful winter romance written by the fabulous Christi Caldwell, that will warm the readers heart. The couple featured in the story have each suffered a broken heart, that has made them retreat from their families and polite society.
Our heroine is Elyse Caldecott, who is being forced to a Christmas house party by her parents to try and marry her off again. She has worked for her aunt Hester, a widowed duchess, since the tragic death of her elder sister Evie. Having lost her best friend and confidant, Elyse has hidden away only venturing out when her parents force her.
Broden Burgess, recently returned from Australia where he was sent after being wrongly convicted of a crime, is also being sent to the same house party. His crime was to fall in love with a duchess’s daughter, being the third son of a marquess he was deemed unworthy to marry her. He was accused of attempted murder and sent to the penal colony. While there his love died. This has left him bitter and heartbroken.
While on the way to the house party they are stranded at an inn by a snow storm. Unaware that they each are going to the same house party with the intent to marry each other, trouble ensues. Firstly because of Borden’s attitude and assumptions about Elyse. And secondly because of Sir Lancelot, a guinea pig that is intended as a gift, who causes all manner of mischief.
This story has the perfect balance of romance, heartache and comedy. Two broken people find a kindred connection and the way to learn to love again. I highly recommend this book to all. Christi has a way of writing that makes her characters come to life and you want them to get their happy ever after. A wonderful book, penned by the Queen of Regency Romance.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
Our heroine is Elyse Caldecott, who is being forced to a Christmas house party by her parents to try and marry her off again. She has worked for her aunt Hester, a widowed duchess, since the tragic death of her elder sister Evie. Having lost her best friend and confidant, Elyse has hidden away only venturing out when her parents force her.
Broden Burgess, recently returned from Australia where he was sent after being wrongly convicted of a crime, is also being sent to the same house party. His crime was to fall in love with a duchess’s daughter, being the third son of a marquess he was deemed unworthy to marry her. He was accused of attempted murder and sent to the penal colony. While there his love died. This has left him bitter and heartbroken.
While on the way to the house party they are stranded at an inn by a snow storm. Unaware that they each are going to the same house party with the intent to marry each other, trouble ensues. Firstly because of Borden’s attitude and assumptions about Elyse. And secondly because of Sir Lancelot, a guinea pig that is intended as a gift, who causes all manner of mischief.
This story has the perfect balance of romance, heartache and comedy. Two broken people find a kindred connection and the way to learn to love again. I highly recommend this book to all. Christi has a way of writing that makes her characters come to life and you want them to get their happy ever after. A wonderful book, penned by the Queen of Regency Romance.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
December 15, 2023
I was extremely fortunate to receive an ARC of Once Upon A Betrothal by author extraordinaire Christi Caldwell. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Elyse Caldecott has secluded herself from her family after her eldest sister's death. She feels alone whilst among people, even her own family. Lord Broden Burgess has been asked by his mother to attend her house party in the hopes of matching him (an ex-convict) up with a friend's reclusive daughter. I loved this story for the concept that sometimes we have misconceptions and preconceived notions about people we know nothing about other than perhaps the exterior or what we habe heard. We all have past experiences and memories that both make us happy and torment us at the same time. We get so lost in the past that moving forward is extremely difficult without sharing our thoughts with someone else perhaps who has had similar experiences and mostly the importance of talking to someone. I loved the storytelling, the intriguing characters and the beautiful written emotional scenes. 5 out-of 5 stars.
December 27, 2023
What happens when two people end up at an inn on a snowy night. Both had been summoned to a Christmas house party by their respective families in order to meet the mate that their families have chosen for them.
What are the chances that the two people meet at the inn not knowing who each other was. After a misunderstanding where he thinks she is in his room as a thief they later settle into a comfortable conversation ending with her revealing her true name. He now knows that she is his intended but she is in the dark until the next morning when she arrives at the party and recognizes him.
From there, they do a romantic dance of getting to know each other and despite the fact that they each had decided not to marry the feelings continue to grow.
When they finally get their Happily Ever After it is worth the wait.
What are the chances that the two people meet at the inn not knowing who each other was. After a misunderstanding where he thinks she is in his room as a thief they later settle into a comfortable conversation ending with her revealing her true name. He now knows that she is his intended but she is in the dark until the next morning when she arrives at the party and recognizes him.
From there, they do a romantic dance of getting to know each other and despite the fact that they each had decided not to marry the feelings continue to grow.
When they finally get their Happily Ever After it is worth the wait.
December 23, 2023
Another gorgeous book by Christi Caldwell! I loved it very much and I particularly enjoyed the happiness and laughter that the main characters brought to each other lives. They are both people who suffered a great loss and want to hide from the others and live a quiet life alone because they think they will suffer less this way. But then they find each other… It was so good to see them come back to life again. Very touching indeed. And with many a delightful scene! There’s a reason why Caldwell is one of my favorite authors!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 2, 2024
This is such a heartwarming read! Our wonderful author, Christi, has such a talent in bringing wounded characters to life, stirring such empathy and compassion in the reader, that one really becomes vested in the lives of such characters. Such is the case of Elyse and Broden. Both have suffered such deep loss in their lives that they are fearful to ever allow their heart to endure such pain again. But in allowing those walls to come down, Elyse discovers what she has lost in closing herself off from her family as well! The delightful little Guinea pig, Sir Lancelot, adds so much to the storyline, and even plays a role in bringing the lovers together! Well done!
December 16, 2023
Christi continues to amaze me. She writes a story that is fairly dark (don’t worry it won’t scare you) but offers us hope. My heart went out to Broden and Elyse. They are basically broken people (yes, I love broken characters who overcome adversity). Anytime I read a Christi story like this I need tissues nearby. This story had lovely scenes that will give you that smile you always want when reading a romance.
I did not like Alden at the beginning but to be fair I thought he was not the nicest of people but is he? I do hope that Alden gets his own story.
I received a complimentary copy.
I did not like Alden at the beginning but to be fair I thought he was not the nicest of people but is he? I do hope that Alden gets his own story.
I received a complimentary copy.
December 26, 2023
This book is about Elyse and Broden. Their families wanted to fix them up, but they both wanted to avoid it. By accident they run into each other in an inn and the chemistry starts, but neither of them knows who the other one is. When they meet at the house party where they were going to get fixed up the chemistry is still there. While reading this story, I felt a lot of the emotions Elyse and Broden were feeling. Christi Caldwell is a wonderful author and I always enjoy her books.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
December 16, 2023
A wonderful story and regency romance, filled with emotion, witty banter, instant chemistry and overcoming fear to start new beginnings. Both Broden and Elyse have suffered loss and have withdrawn from their families. The story is paced perfectly from their first encounter and wrong impressions to their emotional walls being lowered and starting to know each other. A romance that builds to a hopeful and deserving happily ever after for two people that fit perfectly.
December 18, 2023
Binge-able!
Therapeutic historical romance! Though tearfully sad in some parts this story is full of laughter and love. Broden and Elyse both suffer from the loss of a loved one and the fear of being hurt again. Family, fate, and a Guinea pig are determined to help them find happiness and learn to live and love once more. I enjoyed this story from beginning to the end. I received an ARC of this book and have voluntarily reviewed it with my own honest opinion.
Therapeutic historical romance! Though tearfully sad in some parts this story is full of laughter and love. Broden and Elyse both suffer from the loss of a loved one and the fear of being hurt again. Family, fate, and a Guinea pig are determined to help them find happiness and learn to live and love once more. I enjoyed this story from beginning to the end. I received an ARC of this book and have voluntarily reviewed it with my own honest opinion.
December 21, 2023
Broden meets Elyse. Two souls who have suffered such terrible losses that they themselves are broken. As usual, Ms. Caldwell really helps us feel the emotions of these two sweet people. She allows them to reach out to each other and through humor, caring and love they become strong and free. I really enjoyed this story. Our two characters are such wonderful people and I wanted them to be happy! A truly lovely story.
March 24, 2024
Excellent.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
It is well written and at a length I prefer, it moves along at a pleasing pace. The characters met are likeable.
There is angst in regard to Broden’s past experiences and some characters in his past are unlikable.
Overall I laughed and cried more in this story than in any of the previous books in this series.
A truly good read IMHO.
I am hoping that there is a future story for Broden’s eldest brother Alden.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
It is well written and at a length I prefer, it moves along at a pleasing pace. The characters met are likeable.
There is angst in regard to Broden’s past experiences and some characters in his past are unlikable.
Overall I laughed and cried more in this story than in any of the previous books in this series.
A truly good read IMHO.
I am hoping that there is a future story for Broden’s eldest brother Alden.
December 16, 2023
A wonderful story of love, loss and redemption. Both Brody and Elyse have suffered deep losses. The author tells the story in a way that readers will empathize with the main characters. The plot is easy to follow and is very interesting. The dialogue between the characters is witty and entertaining. It is a great story that readers will enjoy.
December 21, 2023
This was a quick book about loving after loss, set during the holidays. I enjoyed getting to know both Elyse and Broden. They were both strong but wounded people who needed love and to be loved. Although this is book 9 of a series, I feel like you could read it without having read any of the other stories. I will definitely read this again.
April 4, 2024
Absolutely Wonderful Story.
An Absolutely Wonderful Story. I am sad the Series is over, but it was a Fantastic one.
Elyse & Broden were wonderful characters who both had sorrow in their hearts & thought to build walls around them & not let anyone in including family members.
I look forward to reading more books/series by Christi Caldwell.
An Absolutely Wonderful Story. I am sad the Series is over, but it was a Fantastic one.
Elyse & Broden were wonderful characters who both had sorrow in their hearts & thought to build walls around them & not let anyone in including family members.
I look forward to reading more books/series by Christi Caldwell.
December 19, 2023
A Betrothal
I absolutely love Christi's books! This book did not disappoint. Thankfully I started the book on the weekend because I did not want to put it down. The characters are so engaging, you feel like you are right there in the story. I look forward to Christi's next book.
I absolutely love Christi's books! This book did not disappoint. Thankfully I started the book on the weekend because I did not want to put it down. The characters are so engaging, you feel like you are right there in the story. I look forward to Christi's next book.
December 20, 2023
Christi Caldwell writes such a good story! I fell in love with Broden and Elyse, their story and the plot. Every book she writes becomes a favorite. I'm so looking forward to reading more from this talented storyteller.
December 28, 2023
Super delicious
Oh my. This is such a wonderful book. I loved ever minute of it. Even reread the last chapter. Sadness sorrow happiness and joy. Interesting and enjoyable. Exceptional.
Oh my. This is such a wonderful book. I loved ever minute of it. Even reread the last chapter. Sadness sorrow happiness and joy. Interesting and enjoyable. Exceptional.
January 10, 2024
saved by love
Two people both lost people they loved, shut themselves off from life. Only to discover a renewed interest in the world again when they met by accident. Sometimes love hurts, and sometimes love heals.
Two people both lost people they loved, shut themselves off from life. Only to discover a renewed interest in the world again when they met by accident. Sometimes love hurts, and sometimes love heals.
March 18, 2024
Two are meant for one another.
This story had a good story line. Two people who had deep sorrow in their past were able to help heal each othee. Sometimes it was so sad but made it up with great happiness.
This story had a good story line. Two people who had deep sorrow in their past were able to help heal each othee. Sometimes it was so sad but made it up with great happiness.
August 10, 2024
Awesome!
What a great story! I laughed out loud and cried at times. Elyse and Broden both so hurt and scarred by life meeting by happenstance and find out that shutting down will cause more pain than opening oneself up.
Christi does an absolutely incredible job with creating characters who come alive. The whole series is amazing!
What a great story! I laughed out loud and cried at times. Elyse and Broden both so hurt and scarred by life meeting by happenstance and find out that shutting down will cause more pain than opening oneself up.
Christi does an absolutely incredible job with creating characters who come alive. The whole series is amazing!
November 10, 2024
4.5
Another lovely book in this series. Two souls who have gone through loss and traumas are drawn together. Really nice story and surrounding characters. Very likeable hero and heroine. Highly recommended.
Another lovely book in this series. Two souls who have gone through loss and traumas are drawn together. Really nice story and surrounding characters. Very likeable hero and heroine. Highly recommended.
November 28, 2024
great story of love and resilience.
What a great book. From start to finish these characters had so much heart. They were very resilient and deserved love. So glad I’ve been reading this series.
What a great book. From start to finish these characters had so much heart. They were very resilient and deserved love. So glad I’ve been reading this series.
December 15, 2023
I could have easily read another 100 pages of Elyse and Broden just being cute like in their ‘duel’ scene. Now we need a book for Alden. 🤞🏻
December 20, 2023
Once Upon an Awesomeness
Oh how Christi Caldwell can weave a story. It’s just glorious. I found myself tearing up along with the heroine and wanting to dive into the book to fight those who had wronged the hero. This is one you def want to keep on your shelf to read again.
Oh how Christi Caldwell can weave a story. It’s just glorious. I found myself tearing up along with the heroine and wanting to dive into the book to fight those who had wronged the hero. This is one you def want to keep on your shelf to read again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews