What do you think?
Rate this book
Addicted #2.5
The Wedding of the Century & Other Stories
New York Times bestselling authors Mary Jo Putney and Kristin James join Charlotte Featherstone to bring you three sparkling stories of love found in the most unlikely of places—marriage!
The Wedding of the Century by MARY JO PUTNEY
Stunningly beautiful and extraordinarily wealthy, Sarah Vangelder had always wanted more for herself than to be sold into marriage for the price of a dukedom. But marriage to Justin Aubrey might be the adventure she's always dreamed of….
Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES
When a late-night walk on her father's ranch inadvertently destroys her reputation, Amy McCallister finds herself married off to Jesse, a sinfully handsome farmhand. But can he convince her to give him her heart, despite their rocky beginning?
Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE
Jase Markham, London's most dashing—and notorious—rake, has loved his brother's fiancée for as long as he can remember. When his brother casts Blossom aside, Jase is determined to finally make her his—if she's willing to overlook his scandalous reputation!
The Wedding of the Century by MARY JO PUTNEY
Stunningly beautiful and extraordinarily wealthy, Sarah Vangelder had always wanted more for herself than to be sold into marriage for the price of a dukedom. But marriage to Justin Aubrey might be the adventure she's always dreamed of….
Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES
When a late-night walk on her father's ranch inadvertently destroys her reputation, Amy McCallister finds herself married off to Jesse, a sinfully handsome farmhand. But can he convince her to give him her heart, despite their rocky beginning?
Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE
Jase Markham, London's most dashing—and notorious—rake, has loved his brother's fiancée for as long as he can remember. When his brother casts Blossom aside, Jase is determined to finally make her his—if she's willing to overlook his scandalous reputation!
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
10 people are currently reading
452 people want to read
About the author
Mary Jo Putney
167 books2,261 followersShe writes young adult fiction as M.J. Putney.
Mary Jo Putney was born on 1946 in Upstate New York with a reading addiction, a condition for which there is no known cure. After earning degrees in English Literature and Industrial Design at Syracuse University, she did various forms of design work in California and England before inertia took over in Baltimore, Maryland, where she has lived very comfortably ever since.
While becoming a novelist was her ultimate fantasy, it never occurred to her that writing was an achievable goal until she acquired a computer for other purposes. When the realization hit that a computer was the ultimate writing tool, she charged merrily into her first book with an ignorance that illustrates the adage that fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Fortune sometimes favors the foolish and her first book sold quickly, thereby changing her life forever, in most ways for the better. (“But why didn't anyone tell me that writing would change the way one reads?”) Like a lemming over a cliff, she gave up her freelance graphic design business to become a full-time writer as soon as possible.
Since 1987, Ms. Putney has published twenty-nine books and counting. Her stories are noted for psychological depth and unusual subject matter such as alcoholism, death and dying, and domestic abuse. She has made all of the national bestseller lists including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USAToday, and Publishers Weekly. Five of her books have been named among the year’s top five romances by The Library Journal. The Spiral Path and Stolen Magic were chosen as one of Top Ten romances of their years by Booklist, published by the American Library Association.
A nine-time finalist for the Romance Writers of America RITA, she has won RITAs for Dancing on the Wind and The Rake and the Reformer and is on the RWA Honor Roll for bestselling authors. She has been awarded two Romantic Times Career Achievement Awards, four NJRW Golden Leaf awards, plus the NJRW career achievement award for historical romance. Though most of her books have been historical, she has also published three contemporary romances. The Marriage Spell will be out in June 2006 in hardcover, and Stolen Magic (written as M. J. Putney) will be released in July 2006.
Ms. Putney says that not least among the blessings of a full-time writing career is that one almost never has to wear pantyhose.
Mary Jo Putney was born on 1946 in Upstate New York with a reading addiction, a condition for which there is no known cure. After earning degrees in English Literature and Industrial Design at Syracuse University, she did various forms of design work in California and England before inertia took over in Baltimore, Maryland, where she has lived very comfortably ever since.
While becoming a novelist was her ultimate fantasy, it never occurred to her that writing was an achievable goal until she acquired a computer for other purposes. When the realization hit that a computer was the ultimate writing tool, she charged merrily into her first book with an ignorance that illustrates the adage that fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Fortune sometimes favors the foolish and her first book sold quickly, thereby changing her life forever, in most ways for the better. (“But why didn't anyone tell me that writing would change the way one reads?”) Like a lemming over a cliff, she gave up her freelance graphic design business to become a full-time writer as soon as possible.
Since 1987, Ms. Putney has published twenty-nine books and counting. Her stories are noted for psychological depth and unusual subject matter such as alcoholism, death and dying, and domestic abuse. She has made all of the national bestseller lists including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USAToday, and Publishers Weekly. Five of her books have been named among the year’s top five romances by The Library Journal. The Spiral Path and Stolen Magic were chosen as one of Top Ten romances of their years by Booklist, published by the American Library Association.
A nine-time finalist for the Romance Writers of America RITA, she has won RITAs for Dancing on the Wind and The Rake and the Reformer and is on the RWA Honor Roll for bestselling authors. She has been awarded two Romantic Times Career Achievement Awards, four NJRW Golden Leaf awards, plus the NJRW career achievement award for historical romance. Though most of her books have been historical, she has also published three contemporary romances. The Marriage Spell will be out in June 2006 in hardcover, and Stolen Magic (written as M. J. Putney) will be released in July 2006.
Ms. Putney says that not least among the blessings of a full-time writing career is that one almost never has to wear pantyhose.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
December 13, 2012
Review for: Seduced by Starlight by Charlotte Featherstone
It was so much fun being reunited with the wonderful characters from Addicted and Sinful. You know the saying "It's going to come back and bite you in the ass"? Well, it bit Matthew awfully hard...left a bruise...maybe even broke the skin. HA! Blossom, Matthew's daughter, has become a sinful obsession for Jase, Lindsay's son, and you could say he's addicted to her! One of the most amusing moments in the book is a conversation between Matthew and Jase, after he finds Jase and Blossom in a compromising position. Terrific dialogue ensues that had me smiling. Matthew's reaction at the end of the conversation was priceless, and the lovely Jane was there to pick up the pieces of his broken heart. Once again I became a puddle of goo! A delightful story that will please fans of Addicted and Sinful.
September 11, 2016
Seducida a la luz de las estrellas
CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE
May 18, 2011
Check out my review and my AWESOME blog here!
Overall anthology mark 4 Stars
This anthology is three stories on what happens after the wedding, when perhaps the hero and heroine didn't quite have the best start, but somehow end up walking the aisle anyways. Can these three couples fall in love despite the circumstances that brought them together?
The Wedding of the Century by Mary Jo Putney
3 Stars
This is a my first Mary Jo Putney book and although it didn't set my world a light it was quite nice. I think what stopped me from enjoying it so much was that the whole story was based around misunderstandings and miscommunications. These kind of stories bug me, I spend the whole book just wanting to bang the protaginists heads together and tell them to sit down and have a proper discussion like rational adults instead of agonizing in silence. This book was no exception it bugged me. But not enough to spoil the whole thing, I did like the main characters of Sunny and Justin, Sunny was as the name implies has a cheerful dispostion, but when her mother forces her to marry Justin she fears that she will never love or be loved when he seems so distant and cold. But little does he know that Justin has loved her since he first saw her and although it may be a marriage of convinience he longs for it to be more.
In conclusion I did enjoy this story, it had likable characters and a hot moment or two, and I will keep a look out for any Mary Jo Putney books that interest me.
Jesse's Wife by Kristin James
3.5 Stars
I have a weakness to western romances, so I think I was predisposed to like this story before I even started! But I did genuinely like this, it was a sweet story about a young newly wed couple, who had been forced in to the marriage by unfortunate circumstances. However, Jesse doesn't think the marriage unfoturnate at all as he has been in love with Amy for years, but she was above his station as he is him employers daughter, so they were just close friends.
Like the MJP book this book was based around a misunderstanding, but it didn't annoy me as much in this book, mainly I think because there wasn't as much silent anguish (just a huge case of blue balls!) I thought the whole story was rather cute, watching them both come to terms with their newly married state and watching Jesse trying to keep his hands off Amy, due to the erroneous assumption that she would not welcome him.
This was an enjoyable and light read that left me with a smile on my face.
Seduced by Starlight by Charlotte Featherstone
4 Stars
I am a huge fan of Charlotte Featherstone, and this story was the reason I wanted to read this anthology. It is about the Jase and Blossom the children of the couples in "Addicted" and "Sinful"
This book was more to do with Jase's seduction of Blossom and his efforts to convince her that he was genuine in his courtship and really wished to marry her, but it does have a chapter of them on their honeymoon having a wicked time with some strawberries and clotted cream!
Although I did not think this was as good as "Addicted" and "Sinful" I really liked this story, it was sensual and sweet, definately a lot naughtier then the previous two novellas. Jase was seductive and charming and I am really not sure how Blossom managed to resist him for so long! I would have been a puddle at his feet from the first moment. But Blossom was strong willed and spirited and I found myself liking her immensly and understanding that she was trying to protect herself.
What also delighted me about this book was that you got to see some famliar characters, I love to see couples after they have had their HEA, so it was a treat to see the Anais and Lindsey and Jane and Matthew a couple of decades later and still very much in love.
Overall anthology mark 4 Stars
This anthology is three stories on what happens after the wedding, when perhaps the hero and heroine didn't quite have the best start, but somehow end up walking the aisle anyways. Can these three couples fall in love despite the circumstances that brought them together?
The Wedding of the Century by Mary Jo Putney
3 Stars
This is a my first Mary Jo Putney book and although it didn't set my world a light it was quite nice. I think what stopped me from enjoying it so much was that the whole story was based around misunderstandings and miscommunications. These kind of stories bug me, I spend the whole book just wanting to bang the protaginists heads together and tell them to sit down and have a proper discussion like rational adults instead of agonizing in silence. This book was no exception it bugged me. But not enough to spoil the whole thing, I did like the main characters of Sunny and Justin, Sunny was as the name implies has a cheerful dispostion, but when her mother forces her to marry Justin she fears that she will never love or be loved when he seems so distant and cold. But little does he know that Justin has loved her since he first saw her and although it may be a marriage of convinience he longs for it to be more.
In conclusion I did enjoy this story, it had likable characters and a hot moment or two, and I will keep a look out for any Mary Jo Putney books that interest me.
Jesse's Wife by Kristin James
3.5 Stars
I have a weakness to western romances, so I think I was predisposed to like this story before I even started! But I did genuinely like this, it was a sweet story about a young newly wed couple, who had been forced in to the marriage by unfortunate circumstances. However, Jesse doesn't think the marriage unfoturnate at all as he has been in love with Amy for years, but she was above his station as he is him employers daughter, so they were just close friends.
Like the MJP book this book was based around a misunderstanding, but it didn't annoy me as much in this book, mainly I think because there wasn't as much silent anguish (just a huge case of blue balls!) I thought the whole story was rather cute, watching them both come to terms with their newly married state and watching Jesse trying to keep his hands off Amy, due to the erroneous assumption that she would not welcome him.
This was an enjoyable and light read that left me with a smile on my face.
Seduced by Starlight by Charlotte Featherstone
4 Stars
I am a huge fan of Charlotte Featherstone, and this story was the reason I wanted to read this anthology. It is about the Jase and Blossom the children of the couples in "Addicted" and "Sinful"
This book was more to do with Jase's seduction of Blossom and his efforts to convince her that he was genuine in his courtship and really wished to marry her, but it does have a chapter of them on their honeymoon having a wicked time with some strawberries and clotted cream!
Although I did not think this was as good as "Addicted" and "Sinful" I really liked this story, it was sensual and sweet, definately a lot naughtier then the previous two novellas. Jase was seductive and charming and I am really not sure how Blossom managed to resist him for so long! I would have been a puddle at his feet from the first moment. But Blossom was strong willed and spirited and I found myself liking her immensly and understanding that she was trying to protect herself.
What also delighted me about this book was that you got to see some famliar characters, I love to see couples after they have had their HEA, so it was a treat to see the Anais and Lindsey and Jane and Matthew a couple of decades later and still very much in love.
October 12, 2011
4 stars for Suduced by Starlight
I was excited to learn Charlotte Featherstone wrote a short novella that was included in an anthology that was released a few months ago. Suduced by Starlight is the love story between Jase, Lindsay and Anais son from Addicted, and Blossom, Matthew and Jane's daughter from Sinful. It was a delight to be given a glimpse into their lives 20 years down the road.
I enjoyed this sweet and sexy love story. Blossom and Jase were fun and richly developed characters. They shared a chemistry that transcended the pages and I couldn't help but grin like a school girl while reading their story.
I won't lie; Matthew, from Sinful is my all-time favorite hero and I was delighted that he was featured quite often in this short story. It was a joy to read his interactions with his daughter, and the scene where he grills Jase in the study had me laughing. This was my favorite part of the story.
I truly enjoyed this novella. I'm grateful Ms. Featherstone gave her readers a little bit more of these irresistible characters.
Note: I have yet to read the first story in this anthology. My review is solely based on Ms. Featherstone's novella Suduced by Starlight.
I was excited to learn Charlotte Featherstone wrote a short novella that was included in an anthology that was released a few months ago. Suduced by Starlight is the love story between Jase, Lindsay and Anais son from Addicted, and Blossom, Matthew and Jane's daughter from Sinful. It was a delight to be given a glimpse into their lives 20 years down the road.
I enjoyed this sweet and sexy love story. Blossom and Jase were fun and richly developed characters. They shared a chemistry that transcended the pages and I couldn't help but grin like a school girl while reading their story.
I won't lie; Matthew, from Sinful is my all-time favorite hero and I was delighted that he was featured quite often in this short story. It was a joy to read his interactions with his daughter, and the scene where he grills Jase in the study had me laughing. This was my favorite part of the story.
I truly enjoyed this novella. I'm grateful Ms. Featherstone gave her readers a little bit more of these irresistible characters.
Note: I have yet to read the first story in this anthology. My review is solely based on Ms. Featherstone's novella Suduced by Starlight.
May 25, 2016
The following refers to Seduced by Starlight by Charlotte Featherstone:
LOVED this little story about Matthew and Jane's daughter Blossom and Lindsay and Anais' son Jace! (From "Sinful" and "Addicted")
It was so fun to see Matthew as the doting, over-protective father. Well, well, Wallingford, it seems some of the rakishness of your youth came back to bite you, LOL.
I found it quite hilarious when Matthew and Lindsay spoke of their own ravishment of virgins back in the day. Somehow it hadn’t seemed quite as scandalous back when they were the ones doing the ravishing as it does now that they are older. I guess being the FATHER of a beautiful young virgin being ravished changes your perspective a bit, heehee. ;-)
Overall it was a beautiful story, I just wish it could've been longer and could've contained more sex, but hey, it's a story in a compilation, so that's probably no fault of the author.
Didn't read the other two stories, so have no idea if they are good or not.
LOVED this little story about Matthew and Jane's daughter Blossom and Lindsay and Anais' son Jace! (From "Sinful" and "Addicted")
It was so fun to see Matthew as the doting, over-protective father. Well, well, Wallingford, it seems some of the rakishness of your youth came back to bite you, LOL.
I found it quite hilarious when Matthew and Lindsay spoke of their own ravishment of virgins back in the day. Somehow it hadn’t seemed quite as scandalous back when they were the ones doing the ravishing as it does now that they are older. I guess being the FATHER of a beautiful young virgin being ravished changes your perspective a bit, heehee. ;-)
Overall it was a beautiful story, I just wish it could've been longer and could've contained more sex, but hey, it's a story in a compilation, so that's probably no fault of the author.
Didn't read the other two stories, so have no idea if they are good or not.
May 26, 2011
My overall rating for this anthology is 4 stars. I wanted to read this book for Charlotte Featherstone's story, Seduced by Starlight. If you loved Addicted and Sinful then I definitely recommend picking up a copy and reading S by S. It was wonderful returning to the world of Addicted and Sinful and seeing Jane & Matthew and Anias & Lindsay. It was also a treat to watch their children fall in love. It wasn't always easy, there were a few bumps in the road but I fell in love with Jase and Blossom. The ending was so sweet and it definitely convinced me that they were the perfect couple. I would give this story a 5 star rating.
March 25, 2012
3 stars for Seduced by Starlight.
A too short novella based on the love story of Matthew from Sinful's daughter and Lindsay from Addicted's son. This could have been amazing and magical but the length restriction didn't allow it to soar.
A too short novella based on the love story of Matthew from Sinful's daughter and Lindsay from Addicted's son. This could have been amazing and magical but the length restriction didn't allow it to soar.
August 3, 2020
Story 1, “Wedding of the Century” 2.5 stars. This was a frustrating story because it is all based on poor communication between the hero & heroine. They had ample opportunities to discuss their issues but neither of them bothered to try. Also, the heroine kissed OM when already married. I was disappointed while reading, I can’t help but expect better from MJP.
Story 2, “Jesse’s Wife” 3 stars. This story was just ok, it felt underdeveloped and too short. I think this story had potential, but there wasn’t enough of them as a married couple to fully satisfy me. I also thought that the last minute drama was quite unnecessary. This is yet another story when some good conversation would have gone a long way, am I doomed to experience the same in the third story?
Story 3, “Seduced by Starlight” 3 stars. Another just ok story... although I think I liked the general storyline the most in this one. There wasn’t the same lack of communication as in the previous two, which was a relief! The writing style left something to be desired... I would not be a fan of this author if the rest of her writing is similar to this.
Overall, not the best collection of stories. Probably not worth the read.
Story 2, “Jesse’s Wife” 3 stars. This story was just ok, it felt underdeveloped and too short. I think this story had potential, but there wasn’t enough of them as a married couple to fully satisfy me. I also thought that the last minute drama was quite unnecessary. This is yet another story when some good conversation would have gone a long way, am I doomed to experience the same in the third story?
Story 3, “Seduced by Starlight” 3 stars. Another just ok story... although I think I liked the general storyline the most in this one. There wasn’t the same lack of communication as in the previous two, which was a relief! The writing style left something to be desired... I would not be a fan of this author if the rest of her writing is similar to this.
Overall, not the best collection of stories. Probably not worth the read.
November 15, 2018
Una historia corta que se lee de un tiron. Una bonita historia de amor y de como la sociedad hace a las personas reprimidas por el que diran. Y aunque en la época que esta ambientada esa era la regla de comportamiento entre una pareja casada....todavía hoy día hay bastantes matrimonios arreglados por posición social y dinero...incleible pero cierto...le dí cinco estrellas pq me gusto la relación entre Sunny y Justin...y lo mejo como saca a la duquesa del palacio...estuvo regio!!!!...todavía me estoy muriendo de la risa....
January 2, 2018
Leído en Agosto 2012
De la antología La boda del siglo y otras historias leí solo La esposa de Jesse de Kristin James la cual le doy 3 estrellitas
Y La boda del siglo de Mary J. Putney la cual le doy 4 estrellas leída en Octubre 2012
De la antología La boda del siglo y otras historias leí solo La esposa de Jesse de Kristin James la cual le doy 3 estrellitas
Y La boda del siglo de Mary J. Putney la cual le doy 4 estrellas leída en Octubre 2012
January 28, 2020
I’m rating Wedding of the Century by Mary Jo Putney as four stars. This is a story I first read years ago and remembered, although I’d forgotten the author and kept looking for it under Lisa Kleypas. Great marriage of convenience story. Great details about how rich girls of ambitious mamas were raised in the Gilded Age. Memorable repressed passion!
I’m sure I read the other two stories years ago as well, but I don’t remember them at all. Which pretty much would have convinced me not to spend any time reading them again, except I’m kind of intrigued with Charlotte Featherstone, so I’m going to give that one a shot.
I’m sure I read the other two stories years ago as well, but I don’t remember them at all. Which pretty much would have convinced me not to spend any time reading them again, except I’m kind of intrigued with Charlotte Featherstone, so I’m going to give that one a shot.
March 21, 2011
Ok - WOW! I am giving this 5 stars based on how much I enjoyed the first two stories.
The Wedding of the Century was an absolute joy to read. I loved it. I can hardly explain everything I liked about the story so I'm going to try my best.
Although the mistaken assumptions plot is quite common, the author takes it somewhere different. I loved that the sex didn't solve anything, even with time, and may have made some things worse. The characters were great and the reader gets to see them develop and work through their misunderstandings and insecurities. There was so much going on here and quite a few different settings.
It was a great story and I'm already looking into more Putney to read.
The second story "Jesse's Wife" was such a cute story. The main characters were amazing. I loved them almost immediately and loved reading their story. I didn't really think having 'the bad guy' come back in the end for a final conflict was necessary, but that's neither here nor there. I could hardly put this story down, it was so cute. I'll be keeping my eye open for this author in the future.
Seduced by Starlight was probably my least favourite but that isn't to say it isn't good. I find that sometimes I don't mesh with certain authors and I just can't visualize what I am reading or it's awkward to get through their story even if it's a good, well-written story. It's like I have a problem with their style of writing or something. That's what happens with me when I read Charlotte Featherstone. I so wanted to read Addicted (because of the cover and the good reviews) but I found I couldn't really work it out. I struggled through this story as well. It was good but it was a lot of work for me and so this anthology lost its I-can't-put-this-down-ness for me with this story. That being said, the story was still very good.
I have to say that I haven't enjoyed a book - much less a historical romance - this much in quite awhile. It made me rethink whether I don't like historical romances or if it's just that I am much less tolerable of bad historicals than I am of bad contemporary romances. In other words, this book may have changed my romance-reading-life! Can't beat that.
The Wedding of the Century was an absolute joy to read. I loved it. I can hardly explain everything I liked about the story so I'm going to try my best.
Although the mistaken assumptions plot is quite common, the author takes it somewhere different. I loved that the sex didn't solve anything, even with time, and may have made some things worse. The characters were great and the reader gets to see them develop and work through their misunderstandings and insecurities. There was so much going on here and quite a few different settings.
It was a great story and I'm already looking into more Putney to read.
The second story "Jesse's Wife" was such a cute story. The main characters were amazing. I loved them almost immediately and loved reading their story. I didn't really think having 'the bad guy' come back in the end for a final conflict was necessary, but that's neither here nor there. I could hardly put this story down, it was so cute. I'll be keeping my eye open for this author in the future.
Seduced by Starlight was probably my least favourite but that isn't to say it isn't good. I find that sometimes I don't mesh with certain authors and I just can't visualize what I am reading or it's awkward to get through their story even if it's a good, well-written story. It's like I have a problem with their style of writing or something. That's what happens with me when I read Charlotte Featherstone. I so wanted to read Addicted (because of the cover and the good reviews) but I found I couldn't really work it out. I struggled through this story as well. It was good but it was a lot of work for me and so this anthology lost its I-can't-put-this-down-ness for me with this story. That being said, the story was still very good.
I have to say that I haven't enjoyed a book - much less a historical romance - this much in quite awhile. It made me rethink whether I don't like historical romances or if it's just that I am much less tolerable of bad historicals than I am of bad contemporary romances. In other words, this book may have changed my romance-reading-life! Can't beat that.
July 2, 2011
Review of Seduced by Starlight -
This is so hard to say but I didn't love it! In fact I tinkered with the thought of giving this 2 stars :( That is so upsetting because both
and
were 5 star reads for me. The later being one of my all time favorite romances.
I actually read this in one sitting and that says something so I gave it the bump to 3 stars.
Now for what I didn't like. I thought it was really meaty in length for a short and that is where my problem lies. I found lack of character development, felt that Jace, our hero to be very one dimensional. I don't really know why that is because the word count was sufficient enough for more depth. I also had issue with the writing flow. The first half seemed stricktly HR with little to no steam. That was fine by me and then bam Steam and erotica! This is also okay by me I never mind a bit or a lot of steam :) I just wished it was woven more fluid througout the story.
The men nipping at Blossom's heals were rather annoying and boring. Although this was most likely the intent it wore on me.
The appearences by both Blossom and Jace's parents were a treat and I really enjoyed the descriptions of Blossom. It brought back the feelings I had while reading of Lindsay's love for Anais!
Most will love this and I for one highly recommend you read both novels mentioned above. After you read them and are in the mood for a short visit with old friends than read this one too!
I can't let this review end without telling you how much I loved watching (reading) Jace squirm and Wallingford roar! This seen alone was worth the 2 hour read!
:)
This is so hard to say but I didn't love it! In fact I tinkered with the thought of giving this 2 stars :( That is so upsetting because both
and
were 5 star reads for me. The later being one of my all time favorite romances. I actually read this in one sitting and that says something so I gave it the bump to 3 stars.
Now for what I didn't like. I thought it was really meaty in length for a short and that is where my problem lies. I found lack of character development, felt that Jace, our hero to be very one dimensional. I don't really know why that is because the word count was sufficient enough for more depth. I also had issue with the writing flow. The first half seemed stricktly HR with little to no steam. That was fine by me and then bam Steam and erotica! This is also okay by me I never mind a bit or a lot of steam :) I just wished it was woven more fluid througout the story.
The men nipping at Blossom's heals were rather annoying and boring. Although this was most likely the intent it wore on me.
The appearences by both Blossom and Jace's parents were a treat and I really enjoyed the descriptions of Blossom. It brought back the feelings I had while reading of Lindsay's love for Anais!
Most will love this and I for one highly recommend you read both novels mentioned above. After you read them and are in the mood for a short visit with old friends than read this one too!
I can't let this review end without telling you how much I loved watching (reading) Jace squirm and Wallingford roar! This seen alone was worth the 2 hour read!
:)
June 13, 2011
This anthology is a little unusual in that it showcases post-nuptial romance. I own the collection strictly for the first selection, The Wedding of the Century, by Mary Jo Putney, which is a 5-star offering, and quite a serious departure from the usual fluff of romance novels.
In it, the married pair are admirable, likable people, yet unable to find their way to each other because of the social constraints common for their time. The premise is an American heiress pressured by her society-conscious mother to marry an impoverished English duke; the plot involves her prior infatuation with another man, the awkwardness of marital relations between strangers, the difficulties of settling into a new country and new family, and the duke's secret love for his bride. The story is a closeup view of how the strictures of the American Gilded Age and British Victorianism hobbled relationships between husbands and wives of the upper class. It also shows the triumph of love and its ultimate salvation through honesty and common sense. This is a frank, sensitive tale and one I revisit every couple of years. 5 stars
The second title, Jesse's Wife, by Kristin James, is a simple, sweet story of the Texas frontier. There isn't a great deal to the plot of a horse wrangler marrying a wealthy rancher's daughter to save her reputation after a bounder compromises her. Courage is required on both their parts before they can admit their true feelings. Unremarkable, typical, but inoffensive. 3 stars.
The third novella, Seduced By Starlight by Charlotte Featherstone, is a very poor offering about a duke's daughter jilted by her fiance and pursued by his brother who she thinks is a rake. Anachronistic, with unrealistic situations and unappealing, unbelievable characters, this entry will prevent me from picking up anything else by its author. 1 star.
In it, the married pair are admirable, likable people, yet unable to find their way to each other because of the social constraints common for their time. The premise is an American heiress pressured by her society-conscious mother to marry an impoverished English duke; the plot involves her prior infatuation with another man, the awkwardness of marital relations between strangers, the difficulties of settling into a new country and new family, and the duke's secret love for his bride. The story is a closeup view of how the strictures of the American Gilded Age and British Victorianism hobbled relationships between husbands and wives of the upper class. It also shows the triumph of love and its ultimate salvation through honesty and common sense. This is a frank, sensitive tale and one I revisit every couple of years. 5 stars
The second title, Jesse's Wife, by Kristin James, is a simple, sweet story of the Texas frontier. There isn't a great deal to the plot of a horse wrangler marrying a wealthy rancher's daughter to save her reputation after a bounder compromises her. Courage is required on both their parts before they can admit their true feelings. Unremarkable, typical, but inoffensive. 3 stars.
The third novella, Seduced By Starlight by Charlotte Featherstone, is a very poor offering about a duke's daughter jilted by her fiance and pursued by his brother who she thinks is a rake. Anachronistic, with unrealistic situations and unappealing, unbelievable characters, this entry will prevent me from picking up anything else by its author. 1 star.
August 9, 2011
This review is for Charlotte Featherstone's Seduced by Starlight only. 4 1/2 stars!!
Charlotte Featherstone is one of my favorite authors... she writes beautiful, poetic, emotional love stories. And even though this particular story is short, it doesn't skimp on my favorite aspects of her stories.
I loved the story about Jase and Blossom. I loved the fact that Blossom and Jase both had secret crushes on one another as they were growing up, and that Jase couldn't act on his feelings toward her -especially once his brother became engaged to her. And that Blossom couldn't really allow herself to fall for the "bad boy". Their coming together was so sweet and romantic and at times funny!
I also loved spending more time with Wallingford and Jane.. and Lindsay and Anais! I loved seeing how they interacted with their grown children... especially Wallingford walking in on Jase and Blossom at an inopportune time!
I loved the introduction of new characters and the hope that they will one day have their own stories... and I also have hope that Charlotte will see fit to write in some more of these beloved characters into her new novels. I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to them.. we went through too much together for this to be our final farewell.
Beautiful story not to be missed!
Charlotte Featherstone is one of my favorite authors... she writes beautiful, poetic, emotional love stories. And even though this particular story is short, it doesn't skimp on my favorite aspects of her stories.
I loved the story about Jase and Blossom. I loved the fact that Blossom and Jase both had secret crushes on one another as they were growing up, and that Jase couldn't act on his feelings toward her -especially once his brother became engaged to her. And that Blossom couldn't really allow herself to fall for the "bad boy". Their coming together was so sweet and romantic and at times funny!
I also loved spending more time with Wallingford and Jane.. and Lindsay and Anais! I loved seeing how they interacted with their grown children... especially Wallingford walking in on Jase and Blossom at an inopportune time!
I loved the introduction of new characters and the hope that they will one day have their own stories... and I also have hope that Charlotte will see fit to write in some more of these beloved characters into her new novels. I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to them.. we went through too much together for this to be our final farewell.
Beautiful story not to be missed!
July 8, 2012
The first and last story were well done and well-written. The middle western seemed out of nowhere and facile. What a strange compilation, I must say. Other than the first story, I really can't see how the other two fit with the theme. Or perhaps it was just a way to sell stories? The first two were written in 1994 and the last one, 2011. So odd. At any rate, I may check out more of Featherstone's work. (Although I find her name fake sounding!)
May 10, 2023
I believe I was expecting too much "about the wedding" material in the three stories due to the grand title of this book: "The Wedding of the Century,..." and the stories were predictable in their introductions of the characters. Mary Jo Putney's story seemed most predictable. And, I enjoyed reading parts of Charlotte Feathersone's story. And, another part of my disappointment is fact I'm 70 yrs, attended many weddings, my own wedding, & those of my family & best friends.
Again, perhaps its part of having lived life, expecting too much in the stories from the teasing title.
Again, perhaps its part of having lived life, expecting too much in the stories from the teasing title.
April 14, 2020
The story by Putney was enjoyable. The second story was cute. The third story by Charlotte Featherstone (that can’t be a real name!) sucked. An earl does not inherit a dukedom - amateur mistake. Speaking of amateur, it needed some editing (capital letters!) near the end. Basically it was blah blah blah blah. I tried to skim it but was so bored I couldn’t even do that.
May 23, 2011
(This review was originally posted on Book Lovers Inc)
The Wedding of the Century by MARY JO PUTNEY
This is the first time I read something by Mary Jo Putney and I'm glad to say it won't be the last. I really like her writing style. We meet Sarah, an American young lady, at a party in England, she's young, beautiful and loved by everyone. Justin is the Duke's brother, he's in the shadow, he's the one running the estate while his brother parade away. When he meet Sarah he's attracted to her, but she has only eyes for another man.
A few years later, Justin finds himself in his brother's shoes. He needs a lot of money and he must marry an heiress. His first thought goes to the pretty Sarah he was so attracted to. Here comes the wedding of the century between a Lord and an American heiress. Sarah's aunt told her not to enjoy her marital duties, she told her she should 'lie and not move until his husband is done'...so that's exactly what Sarah does. For month, it's really a marriage of convenience, both doing their duty without enjoying one minute of it. It was painful to read about, Sarah doesn't want her husband to think she's wanton and Justin doesn't know why she reacts this way every time he touches her. It's killing them both from the inside, they both want each other. I loved how Justin and Sarah slowly discovered each other. They both wanted more from their relationship but both didn't know how to show it. The lack of communication was killing me, but I got what I wanted in the end. ;)
I didn't know what to expect of this novella and I was pleasantly surprised. It was fun and refreshing to see the Wedding of the Century taking place. The author's writing was perfect to make us realize how fasts the events happened for our couple, while reading it's like you're thrown in there, too. And Justin's reaction to the American press harassing him was really hilarious, a clash of cultures between England and America that's for sure. ;) It's a fast and engaging novella that will make you want to talk things out with your loved ones.
4 stars
Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES
Amy is young and naive and doesn't realize that she's in danger of being ruined. Lucky for her Jesse, a young man who's been working in her father's ranch for years saved her, but servants saw him with a half naked Amy. It's too late to save her reputation. Amy's parents want her to marry to avoid a scandal. Jesse has been in love with Amy for years but he knows she deserves better than him. Still he asks her to marry him so that she doesn't have to be forced to marry to someone else. He even agrees never to touch her if she agrees.
Jesse and Amy's life together is a sweet story.
Both young and innocent, at first they lack the knowledge to make their marriage work. Amy hasn't been prepared for this life, she doesn't know how to take care of a household, which leads to very funny moments. They have to live in a small place and intimacy is rather difficult to get. I really loved Jesse, he's sweet and so nice. He'd do anything for her, even if it means never being able to touch his wife. He's a real everyday hero to me. I liked that Amy found herself and started being proactive on her situation. She really grew up to become a woman, a wife. It was a really cute story. 3.5 stars.
Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE
This story is the reason why I requested this book. I'm a bit fan of Charlotte Freatherstone and I couldn't wait to read this story! It features the son and daughter of the heroes from Addicted and Sinful. *squeee* So of course we see all our favorite characters again, 25 years after their HEA *squeee*.
Jase is in love with his brother's fiancée. Something he can't bear, so he's fled to the other side of the country to avoid seeing them. He can't very well be seen lusting about his future sister-in-law, can he? Blossom is an artist just like her father. She loves to paint and wouldn't stop for anything in the world. She's been engaged to her childhood friend thinking it was the most natural step in their relationship. But when he tells her he met someone else he wants to marry, she understands. As you can imagine when Jase hears that the engagement is broken all he's thinking about is having Blossom for himself. I loved the chase. I love how he tried to prove her they are made for each other.
This story fits in the theme of the anthology because Blossom thinks Jase wants to marry her because he feels obligated to right his brother's wrong. She thinks he wants a marriage of convenience. Oh, how I loved this story. it was hot, cute, passionate, and oh so romantic. This was my favorite story in the anthology.
4.5 stars!
Final thoughts: This is a very good anthology about marriage of convenience and how love can creep on you when you don't expect it. I loved that it was often about the lack of communication between the leading characters and the prejudices people can have on married life. I can only recommend it to all the HEA lovers. If you need a dose of love this one is for you.
I give The Wedding of the Century 4 Bookies
The Wedding of the Century by MARY JO PUTNEY
This is the first time I read something by Mary Jo Putney and I'm glad to say it won't be the last. I really like her writing style. We meet Sarah, an American young lady, at a party in England, she's young, beautiful and loved by everyone. Justin is the Duke's brother, he's in the shadow, he's the one running the estate while his brother parade away. When he meet Sarah he's attracted to her, but she has only eyes for another man.
A few years later, Justin finds himself in his brother's shoes. He needs a lot of money and he must marry an heiress. His first thought goes to the pretty Sarah he was so attracted to. Here comes the wedding of the century between a Lord and an American heiress. Sarah's aunt told her not to enjoy her marital duties, she told her she should 'lie and not move until his husband is done'...so that's exactly what Sarah does. For month, it's really a marriage of convenience, both doing their duty without enjoying one minute of it. It was painful to read about, Sarah doesn't want her husband to think she's wanton and Justin doesn't know why she reacts this way every time he touches her. It's killing them both from the inside, they both want each other. I loved how Justin and Sarah slowly discovered each other. They both wanted more from their relationship but both didn't know how to show it. The lack of communication was killing me, but I got what I wanted in the end. ;)
I didn't know what to expect of this novella and I was pleasantly surprised. It was fun and refreshing to see the Wedding of the Century taking place. The author's writing was perfect to make us realize how fasts the events happened for our couple, while reading it's like you're thrown in there, too. And Justin's reaction to the American press harassing him was really hilarious, a clash of cultures between England and America that's for sure. ;) It's a fast and engaging novella that will make you want to talk things out with your loved ones.
4 stars
Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES
Amy is young and naive and doesn't realize that she's in danger of being ruined. Lucky for her Jesse, a young man who's been working in her father's ranch for years saved her, but servants saw him with a half naked Amy. It's too late to save her reputation. Amy's parents want her to marry to avoid a scandal. Jesse has been in love with Amy for years but he knows she deserves better than him. Still he asks her to marry him so that she doesn't have to be forced to marry to someone else. He even agrees never to touch her if she agrees.
Jesse and Amy's life together is a sweet story.
Both young and innocent, at first they lack the knowledge to make their marriage work. Amy hasn't been prepared for this life, she doesn't know how to take care of a household, which leads to very funny moments. They have to live in a small place and intimacy is rather difficult to get. I really loved Jesse, he's sweet and so nice. He'd do anything for her, even if it means never being able to touch his wife. He's a real everyday hero to me. I liked that Amy found herself and started being proactive on her situation. She really grew up to become a woman, a wife. It was a really cute story. 3.5 stars.
Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE
This story is the reason why I requested this book. I'm a bit fan of Charlotte Freatherstone and I couldn't wait to read this story! It features the son and daughter of the heroes from Addicted and Sinful. *squeee* So of course we see all our favorite characters again, 25 years after their HEA *squeee*.
Jase is in love with his brother's fiancée. Something he can't bear, so he's fled to the other side of the country to avoid seeing them. He can't very well be seen lusting about his future sister-in-law, can he? Blossom is an artist just like her father. She loves to paint and wouldn't stop for anything in the world. She's been engaged to her childhood friend thinking it was the most natural step in their relationship. But when he tells her he met someone else he wants to marry, she understands. As you can imagine when Jase hears that the engagement is broken all he's thinking about is having Blossom for himself. I loved the chase. I love how he tried to prove her they are made for each other.
This story fits in the theme of the anthology because Blossom thinks Jase wants to marry her because he feels obligated to right his brother's wrong. She thinks he wants a marriage of convenience. Oh, how I loved this story. it was hot, cute, passionate, and oh so romantic. This was my favorite story in the anthology.
4.5 stars!
Final thoughts: This is a very good anthology about marriage of convenience and how love can creep on you when you don't expect it. I loved that it was often about the lack of communication between the leading characters and the prejudices people can have on married life. I can only recommend it to all the HEA lovers. If you need a dose of love this one is for you.
I give The Wedding of the Century 4 Bookies
June 9, 2017
Charlotte Featherstone's Seduced by Starlight
Lovely! :D
Lovely! :D
June 16, 2017
Read Putney's "Wedding of the Century." Good, but it seemed to lack a little something.
December 2, 2017
Library Kindle e-book
May 27, 2018
read wedding of the century but not the two others
July 1, 2019
Bonita. Se lee rápido.
Te das cuenta del papel de la mujer y de los tabúes en el ámbito sexual que habían en aquella época.
Te alegras de lo avanzados que estamos ahora aunque quede mucho por hacer.
Te das cuenta del papel de la mujer y de los tabúes en el ámbito sexual que habían en aquella época.
Te alegras de lo avanzados que estamos ahora aunque quede mucho por hacer.
October 3, 2019
The Wedding of the Century by MARY JO PUTNEY: 4 stars
Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES: 4.5 stars
Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE: 5 stars
Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES: 4.5 stars
Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE: 5 stars
Currently reading
December 3, 2020It's good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2021
Just read the novella of Charlotte Featherstone
September 15, 2022
140922 Seduced by starlight. 3✴️
April 9, 2023
Kristin James's story, 'Jesse's wife' is a lovely excursion into western frontier romance.
July 10, 2024
Uno de los mejores libros que he leído.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews