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Sailing Home #2

Mistletoe, Marriage, and Mayhem: A Bluestocking Belles Collection

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In this collection of novellas, the Bluestocking Belles bring you seven runaway Regency brides resisting and romancing their holiday heroes under the mistletoe. Whether scampering away or dashing toward their destinies, avoiding a rogue or chasing after a scoundrel, these ladies and their gentlemen leave miles of mayhem behind them on the slippery road to a happy-ever-after.

***All proceeds benefit the Malala Fund.***

All She Wants for Christmas, by Amy Rose Bennett
A frosty bluestocking and a hot-blooded rake. A stolen kiss and a Yuletide wedding. Sparks fly, but will hearts melt this Christmas?

The Ultimate Escape, by Susana Ellis
Abandoned on his wedding day, Oliver must choose between losing his bride forever or crossing over two hundred years to find her and win her back.

Under the Mistletoe, by Sherry Ewing
Margaret Templeton will settle for Captain Morledge’s hand in marriage, until she sees the man she once loved. Who will win her heart at the Christmas party of her would-be betrothed?

‘Tis Her Season, by Mariana Gabrielle
Charlotte Amberly returns a Christmas gift from her intended—the ring—then hares off to London to take husband-hunting into her own hands. Will she let herself be caught?

Gingerbread Bride, by Jude Knight
Traveling with her father's fleet has not prepared Mary Pritchard for London. When she strikes out on her own, she finds adventure, trouble, and her girlhood hero, riding once more to her rescue.

A Dangerous Nativity, by Caroline Warfield
With Christmas coming, can the Earl of Chadbourn repair his widowed sister’s damaged estate, and far more damaged family? Dare he hope for love in the bargain?

Joy to the World, by Nicole Zoltack
Eliza Berkeley discovers she is marrying the wrong man—on her wedding day. When the real duke turns up instead, will her chance at marital bliss be spoiled?

402 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2015

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About the author

Amy Rose Bennett

30 books483 followers
Amy Rose Bennett has always wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. An avid reader with a particular love for historical romance, it seemed only natural to write stories in her favourite genre. She has a passion for creating emotion-packed—and sometimes a little racy—stories set in the Georgian and Regency periods. Of course, her strong-willed heroines and rakish heroes always find their happily ever after.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Judy.
3,099 reviews
January 16, 2016
Mistletoe Marriage & Mayhem
A Bluestocking Belles Collection
Seven authors and seven different stories make this boxed set a real page turner.
The stories are all wonderful and flow well. Each story is so unique. I really enjoyed them.

All She Wants for Christmas by Amy Rose Bennett
Tessa had known she would always be a spinster. She had a secret that kept her apart from Society. Maybe a slight bit of envy entered knowing her sister would have a different life, but Tessa's had her own interests to keep her busy. Life, or perhaps fate, has a way of making a different path. Especially when you are caught in a compromising situation with a known rake.
**Sensual content

The Ultimate Escape by Susana Ellis
Lady Julia Pendleton needed time to think. She was to marry Oliver Stanton, the only man she ever loved. But did he love her or did he just need a mother for his young daughter?What can a gal do if she thinks she needs to escape her wedding and think? What her mother once did, of course. Travel to the future. I found this story unique.

Under the Mistletoe by Sherry Ewing
Bluestocking, Margaret Templeton, would be just fine living a spinster's life, but her father wants her married and safe as he is growing older. The man her father has chosen, if she agrees, seems handsome and nice...but...something isn't quite right. Maybe it's because the man her heart truly yearns...but cannot have...is around.

'Tis Her Season by Mariana Gabrielle
Charlotte Amberly wants to go through her first Season. Curtsey to the queen and enjoy the parties. Her mother has other plans. Plans that Charlotte is not going to stand by and obey. She has a plan. Thankfully someone helped saved her from her not so brilliant plan.

Great characters. Some bring out good emotions. Some you want to beat to a pulp and then beat some more. Prequel to Royal Regard. Bella's story.
**Sensual content

Gingerbread Bride by Jude Knight
Mary Pritchard had an unusual upbringing, traveling with her father, an admiral, to all the unique places. Best of all was Rick Redepenning, the sailor who was always there to rescue her from danger. From herself. And here he is in her life again...could she want more than his rescue now?

A Dangerous Nativity by Caroline Warfield
The Earl of Chadbourn had his hands full. A listless sister in mourning, a fearful nephew who was the new duke, and something secretive between the dead duke and his neighbors at Songbird Cottage. William decided he would get to the bottom of things...while getting to know the beautiful woman next door.

Joy to the World by Nicole Zoltack
Would the real Duke of Norfolk please come down the aisle? This is a problem the second daughter of a baron never thought she'd face. Eliza had agreed to marry one duke, just to have a different man show up claiming he was the duke. Does either one want her? Does she still want either of them?
**Received an early copy for an honest review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Profile Image for Aleen.
454 reviews43 followers
October 22, 2015
This was a wonderful collection of stories set around Christmas. Each author brings a certain quality to the box set, that makes it totally unique. One binding aspect is the fact that none of the characters are perfect. Each story features characters that have flaws and personal insecurities.

As a reader, I was taken on a journey and felt that I was there along with the characters experiencing their anguishes, happiness, and loss.

There is something in this box set for everyone. Heroines and heroes with physical imperfections, suspense, heartwarming love, meddlesome mothers, bluestockings, and Happily Ever Afters.

It certainly got me in the mood for Christmas and I look forward to more from all of these talented authors.

489 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2015
This was a lovely collection of Christmas seasonal novellas. I enjoyed reading about the flawed and scarred people who found emotional healing as they opened their hearts to love. Most of the stories included elements of humor; all had the typical misunderstandings that finally resolve when two people talk openly and honestly about hopes, fears, and feelings. I think this will be a favorite Christmas read in the years to come.
Profile Image for Molly.
644 reviews29 followers
October 18, 2015
This is a great series of short stories and after I finished one I could not wait to read another and another bonus is that everyone who buy this book is helping the Malala Fund, which is a great cause. This series has a lot of good authors and I was so happy I got to read it. I did not wait to spoil so I don't want to give anything away but I will say my favorite were A Dangerous Nativity, by Caroline Garfield and Joy to the World, by Nicole Zoltack. Also I really enjoyed the others.
21 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2015
This group of stories from the Bluestocking Belles was terrific. Each story was highly entertaining in it's own way, not repetitive of the other stories even though they all revolved around a central theme. They were well written with very engaging characters and storylines. Once I started I just couldn't stop until I was finished with the whole thing! I can't wait to read more by these ladies. I highly recommend this very entertaining collection of stories.
Profile Image for Judy.
3,099 reviews
September 16, 2015
Mistletoe Marriage & Mayhem
A Bluestocking Belles Collection
Seven authors and seven different stories make this boxed set a real page turner.
The stories are all wonderful and flow well. Each story is so unique. I really enjoyed them.

All She Wants for Christmas by Amy Rose Bennett
Tessa had known she would always be a spinster. She had a secret that kept her apart from Society. Maybe a slight bit of envy entered knowing her sister would have a different life, but Tessa's had her own interests to keep her busy. Life, or perhaps fate, has a way of making a different path. Especially when you are caught in a compromising situation with a known rake.
**Sensual content

The Ultimate Escape by Susana Ellis
Lady Julia Pendleton needed time to think. She was to marry Oliver Stanton, the only man she ever loved. But did he love her or did he just need a mother for his young daughter?What can a gal do if she thinks she needs to escape her wedding and think? What her mother once did, of course. Travel to the future. I found this story unique.

Under the Mistletoe by Sherry Ewing
Bluestocking, Margaret Templeton, would be just fine living a spinster's life, but her father wants her married and safe as he is growing older. The man her father has chosen, if she agrees, seems handsome and nice...but...something isn't quite right. Maybe it's because the man her heart truly yearns...but cannot have...is around.

'Tis Her Season by Mariana Gabrielle
Charlotte Amberly wants to go through her first Season. Curtsey to the queen and enjoy the parties. Her mother has other plans. Plans that Charlotte is not going to stand by and obey. She has a plan. Thankfully someone helped saved her from her not so brilliant plan.

Great characters. Some bring out good emotions. Some you want to beat to a pulp and then beat some more. Prequel to Royal Regard. Bella's story.
**Sensual content

Gingerbread Bride by Jude Knight
Mary Pritchard had an unusual upbringing, traveling with her father, an admiral, to all the unique places. Best of all was Rick Redepenning, the sailor who was always there to rescue her from danger. From herself. And here he is in her life again...could she want more than his rescue now?

A Dangerous Nativity by Caroline Warfield
The Earl of Chadbourn had his hands full. A listless sister in mourning, a fearful nephew who was the new duke, and something secretive between the dead duke and his neighbors at Songbird Cottage. William decided he would get to the bottom of things...while getting to know the beautiful woman next door.

Joy to the World by Nicole Zoltack
Would the real Duke of Norfolk please come down the aisle? This is a problem the second daughter of a baron never thought she'd face. Eliza had agreed to marry one duke, just to have a different man show up claiming he was the duke. Does either one want her? Does she still want either of them?
**Received an early copy for an honest review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Profile Image for Marlene.
465 reviews118 followers
March 1, 2016
Mistletoe, Marriage, and Mayhem: A Bluestocking Belles Collection is an anthology of Regency romance novellas from several different authors. I picked this up because I really enjoyed The Third MacPherson Sister by Susana Ellis.

Each story is preceded by a blurb about it. I found that I preferred to bypass the blurb and go into each story knowing nothing about it. I saw another reviewer who appreciated the blurbs to help her decide whether to skip any stories.

The ratings I gave to the individual stories: 4, 4 1/2, 3, 5, 5, 5, 4

My overall rating is 4 Stars!

---------------------------

All She Wants for Christmas by Amy Rose Bennett

4 stars

Jasper Hargreaves, the fifth Earl of Arlington, goes to a ball at his friend's home. He has a reputation as "a rakehell of the worst kind" and has taken to "lonely widows and brandy... ever since the Battle of Waterloo." Lord Arlington doesn't want to dance, and plans a tryst somewhere upstairs with a beautiful widow.

Warning to some: I would say this story cannot be classified as sweet/clean. I admit that I thought it was a good story, but I didn't see that coming. The cover art and the sweet story I had previously read by Ellis led me to mistakenly assume the entire collection was sweet.

Tessa Penrose, the eldest daughter of Lord Arlington's friend, is a bluestocking and a talented painter. Tessa avoids all social events as much as possible. She's bored at the ball and eventually gets permission from her aunt to leave. She goes to her art studio, which is, of course, where the tryst is to occur.

Tessa and Jasper are an unlikely pairing, but it does come about in a realistic way. There is a conflict part way through which I think is somewhat flawed, hence the four stars. Otherwise it's an excellent story, even though the racy parts are not for me! For that reason, I will not be seeking more from Amy Rose Bennett.

-------------------------------

The Ultimate Escape by Susana Ellis

4 1/2 stars

This story is sweet as well as a time travel story.

Lady Julia Tate's mother went through a difficult time with her father years ago, and escaped for a while... into the future with the help of a gypsy in a shop in Gracechurch Street. Julia stumbled on this information accidentally, and has been fascinated by it ever since.

Oliver Staton is in his father's house, wincing at his father's toasts to Julia, who he will be marrying the following day:

"A toast to the bride and all of her lovely money!... Here's to the lad here getting her belly full on the wedding night..."

Of course Julia, who is already struggling with doubts about Oliver's motivation for proposing to her overhears the crude toast. She's very upset and decides to temporarily escape into the future, as her mother once did. She is transported to London in 2015, and naturally sees many things that surprise her! I was quite amused when I read, "The blond-bearded young man wearing green pants with swatches of olive and brown with pockets in rather inconvenient places."

Julia and Oliver need to resolve their issues in order to be wed.

I'm no expert on time travel. But I took off 1/2 star because, while very interesting and fun, I did not feel the time travel was necessary to the story. Otherwise, I thought it was great! I want to try more Susana Ellis stories.

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Under the Mistletoe by Sherry Ewing

3 stars

Margaret Templeton is a vicar's daughter, and is suffering from an influx of suitors encouraged by her father. She's content to be a bluestocking spinster.

Frederick Maddock, Viscount Beacham, was Margaret's childhood friend. Frederick proposed to Margaret years ago. She loved him, but refused his proposal because she felt his parents would not be able to accept her.

Captain Sander Morledge approaches Joseph Templeton, requesting that Margaret be allowed to be hostess for a Christmas ball and house party he will be hosting at his country manor. He invites Frederick to the house party when he bumps into Frederick and Margaret talking near a bookstore.

I gave this one three stars for two reasons. First, because I kept looking for why Frederick and Margaret love each other to the point of each never marrying for years, and was just not finding it. Second, because there were details here and there that I thought could have been improved. For example, why did Morledge invite Freddy? Margaret wondered about this, I wondered about it, and there was never an answer.

I still liked and enjoyed the story. It was clean, apart from a couple of risque comments.

---------------------------

'Tis Her Season, a prequel to Royal Regard, by Mariana Gabrielle

5 Stars

Charlotte Amberly, 17, has a difficult family (and extended family) to deal with. Her uncle and nephews are physically abusive to her cousin Bella. Charlotte's parents have insisted that she marry the Marquess of Firthley, who is four times her age. Her father, a viscount, usually helps Charlotte in conflicts with her mother, but not this time. Not only is this marriage undesirable to her, but it would prevent her from going to London for her first Season, which she has looked forward to for so long!

Alexander Marloughe, the Earl of Herrendon, is the Marquess' grandson and his heir. The Marquess brought his grandson along to meet Charlotte and her family. Lord Herrendon is appalled at the arranged marriage, and is rather quiet during the visit to distance himself from the whole situation.

The only negative I found about this story was the lack of an explanation of how Alexander is an earl as well as the heir of a marquess. I really loved this story. I liked the dialogue between the hero and heroine and was often amused. I felt like the story just dug really deep. I went to add Royal Regard to my to-read list, and found several reviewers that made similar comments. Enjoy!

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Gingerbread Bride by Jude Knight

5 Stars

When Rick Redepenning was thirteen and Mary Pritchard was nine, he began a habit of rescuing her when she ran away. Mary's father was an admiral, and Rick was a midshipman on his ship. The first time Rick rescued her, she "had fallen in love that day, and she stayed in love as the boy grew to be the handsomest, kindest man she knew."

After her father died, she went to live with her aunt, who later would not allow Rick to visit Mary since he was "a half-pay navy lieutenant with a bad limp and few expectations." Mary was unaware of this, and at the beginning of this story crosses paths with Rick again. And of course, he is rescuing her!

I like this story because Rick and Mary are such devoted friends. The relationship is convincing and fun at the same time. The secondary characters are fabulous! I'd like to try another by Jude Knight.

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A Dangerous Nativity by Caroline Warfield

5 stars

William Landrum, the Earl of Chadbourn, has been away from home for two months. His sister Sylvia Wheatly is newly widowed and not emotionally equipped to deal with estate business. Nor is her son Charles, the new Duke of Murnane. Chadbourn is Charles' guardian and is taking on the responsibility of correcting the former duke's estate mismanagement. He's finding it very discouraging. Not only are the farms in a ramshackle state, but his sister and nephew are extremely fragile.

Will goes for a ride to ease his frustration, and comes across a neighboring orchard and grounds which are flourishing under someone's care. He visits the house nearby and meets the family there. Comically, he goes from admiring the peace and beauty of their land to stumbling into a "domestic crisis" of their various farm animals. Will meets a young lady named Catherine and her two younger adolescent brothers. Catherine has a love of the land and of animal husbandry, which the Earl of Chadbourn completely relates to.

This is simultaneously a charming story and one that goes beyond superficiality. I enjoyed it very much.

------------------

Joy to the World by Nicole Zoltack

4 stars

Eliza Berkeley, the daughter of a baron, is about to get married to Stephen Huntington, the Duke of Wyndale. He asked her parents for permission to marry her five days after they had met, so she's a little bit nervous about whether she's confident in her love for him. Just when it looks like the duke is a no-show for his own wedding, he arrives. Except it's not him. It's a man that looks very like her fiancee and claims that he is the duke. He's apparently tracking down someone impersonating him.

However, the true Stephen offers to marry her anyway. They postpone the wedding by a couple of weeks supposedly to give Eliza a more elaborate wedding, but in actuality to give her time to make up her mind. In between Stephen's stints at playing detective, he and Eliza get to know each other.

I liked Stephen and Eliza as the main characters, and enjoyed the plot.
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24 reviews
November 1, 2015
Mistletoe, Marriage, and Mayhem: A Bluestocking Belles Collection is a wonderful collection of novellas, set in the Regency Period. Certainly all the authors have created such engaging story lines and characters, that I as a reader felt transported to a thrilling place in time.

There are seven wonderful authors, each having contributed a enthralling story to this collection. I enjoyed the variety and range of the characters, plus the delightful settings.

A must read for any reader who enjoys romance, Christmas, or mayhem.

Proceeds of this collection benefit the Malala Fund.
Profile Image for Crystal Cox.
44 reviews14 followers
November 10, 2015
*******************Terrific Sweet Holiday Romance Read!***********************

Seven Regency Christmas Novellas from seven different authors makes for a delightful collection to get you in the mood for the holidays!

These are all sweet romances with HEA and no cliffhangers!


All She Wants for Christmas by Amy Rose Bennett ~ Tessa and Jasper have secrets that keep them from happiness. Starting off their relationship with a scandal will they be able to get past their insecurities? Tessa and Jasper *sigh I just fell in love with both of these characters. Even though this was a novella the writing was superb and made you care about them.

The Ultimate Escape by Susana Ellis ~ After waiting so long for the man that she loves Julia escapes through time ,worried that Oliver will never love her. Oliver has messed things up and now must travel through time to convince Julia that they belong together. What a delightful treat to have a time travel regency story. I just loved Julia's reactions to our time especially when she thought she had a fortune until she started buying things in our time.

Under the Mistletoe by Sherry Ewing ~ When Margaret decides that she must do her duty and get married she acts as hostess for Captain Morledge. However the man she has always cared for , Frederick has other ideas when he finds out she is back in London. This was one of the stories where you like the heroine but you want to shake her, grab her , point her at the hero and say That Way you ninny! Frederick was great, he dropped everything the minute she was back in town and is so protective of her. The Captain now that is a whole different story *shudder. There was a very interesting twist that I wasn't expecting, which is very impressive in a novella.


'Tis Her Season by Mariana Gabrielle ~ Charlotte has decided that she will NOT be missing her London Season and be married to an old man!
So she runs off to London to get her Season and a husband of her choosing. Charlotte is definitely a complicated and selfish character but in the end has a good heart. ( I think it could be years of training to be stronger than her mother lol) . I just loved Alexander and how he would not give into her drama , he is the perfect yin for her yang.

Gingerbread Bride by Jude Knight ~ Mary was raised on her fathers fleet , she only knows adventure and fun. The strict London Society is not agreeing with her and it is good that her girlhood hero Rick is still around to rescue the adventurous Mary. I just love stories were childhood friends/sweethearts meet again! Poor Mary is just hopping from one family's house to another trying to find where she belongs could it be in her heroes arms?

A Dangerous Nativity by Caroline Warfield ~ Will just wants to care for his lands and his people but after his brother-in-laws death he finds himself with a run down estate ,a traumatized sister and nephew , and secrets about interesting neighbors. Catherine does not need the Earl of Chadbourn coming and upsetting her father but it doesn't seem like he is going to leave things alone. Even though this is a novella is sure did pack a lot of surprises and twist! I just loved all the strong characters in this book , the three boys did steal the show sometimes lol.

Joy to the World by Nicole Zoltack ~ Eliza thought she had snagged a Duke but found out that it was an impostor who didn't even show up for the wedding. Stephen, the Duke of Wyndale hears about his impostor marriage and decides he will catch him at the wedding , instead he catches the bride. What a horrible situation for poor Eliza , what will she do about the real Duke and what is the impostor planning ?
Profile Image for Heather.
950 reviews7 followers
February 1, 2016
great collections of stories by amazing authors. I'm usually iffy about buying box sets but I have this one a try since it had featured authors I enjoy reading. I have to say I wasn't disappointed . I enjoys each story featured in this set
Profile Image for Sheri.
Author 20 books54 followers
December 1, 2015
The stories were good, though some were stronger than others. If I'm being honest, it's a five star just for pulling me in when I really needed a break from stressful real world stuff.
Profile Image for Ann.
485 reviews6 followers
March 26, 2016
Pleasant read of a good collection of Novellas.

Very enjoyable.
Profile Image for Sieravonne.
358 reviews3 followers
January 26, 2018
All She Wants for Christmas by Amy Rose Bennett
3 stars

I just love it when the female leading character has her own life, has a stand and do not tolerate being stepped on. However, catching the male leading character in an intimate position with another woman prior to meeting with each other does not sit well with me.


The Ultimate Escape by Susana Ellis
1 star

1. So that's it? Julia just melted when Oliver offered to bring her shopping bag? So shallow.

2. I find it really, really stupid that Oliver just realized how scheming and conniving Kate (Oliver's deceased first wife) was after the wedding. Duh?? He should have known that behind the angelic appearance, Kate has a shrewd mind. They were close friends and playmates for God's sake! And she only showed her real self to both Julia and Oliver. Kate even boasted to them on how easily her parents could be duped! Was he that stupid?

3. If you ask me, Kate deserves to die after manipulating and betraying Julia and Oliver. Real friends will not do that to you. Hence, Oliver should not be guilty over his Kate's death; he should be celebrating because he was free from the she-devil in angel's clothes. Plus, he already implied that he was not happy with his first marriage. Thus, he should not feel guilty


Under the Mistletoe by Sherry Ewing
1 star

I find it corny. Plus, I couldn't understand the logic on why Sander Morledge’s had locked his maimed wife in her bedchamber instead of their sons since they're fully capable to mobilize. The alleged Mrs. Morledge couldn't do anything other than stay in her bed and her only way to move is by the rolling chair.


‘Tis Her Season by Mariana Gabrielle
1 star

I find it a bit irritating; Charlotte was such an ungrateful, spoiled brat. As Bella, her cousin, companion and best friend had said, "He [Alexander (Charlotte's betrothed)] helped you run from Evercreech. He lied to your parents without being asked. He kept your secret when he could have ruined you. He offered for you when Jeremy (Bella's ne'er-do-well brother who beats women) was your only other choice. He pinked my brother in a duel to save both of us from the next round of Smithson scheming. And all without destroying the last shreds of your good name." So what more could she ask for? She can't be choosy after what she did that will bring shame to her whole family.

I understand that she wanted to marry for love, but she was asking too much! If did not marry Alexander, she will be ruined. She should at least be content that a better man is willing to offer her hand and save her reputation. Would she rather marry Jeremy? Duh?? Alexander was the lesser evil.

This story shouldn't be in this collection at all because she was not a bluestocking; she was just another marriage-minded girl.


Gingerbread Bride by Jude Knight
2 stars

I got bored.


A Dangerous Nativity by Caroline Warfield
4 stars

A nice, intriguing story, however, I find the chemistry build-up between William and Catherine weak. Furthermore, I don't see William's marriage proposal strong enough to make Catherine agree. Moreover, as a duchess, Sylvia (William's sister) was such an annoying, overreacting baby. Lastly, when William and Catherine got married, it's going to be a complicated family tree because when you look at an another angle, Catherine was William's niece.


Joy to the World by Nicole Zoltack
1 star

I find this novella shallow. The chemistry between Stephen and Eliza was poor.

There were also a number of inconsistencies. Like, how was Eliza able to snatch the blade from the impostor? It wasn't explained; it just happened. And what did the charlatan blackmail Eliza's father? What did he need to blackmail for? Annnd I thought all of Eliza's doubts had already been laid to rest, because she didn't need any further proof that Stephen was indeed the real Duke of Wyndale. So what was her drama for wanting to stay away from him?

Lastly, this novella shouldn't be in this collection at all because Eliza was not a bluestocking; she was just another marriage-minded girl.


Average: 1.71 stars

It was a shame because I enjoyed the first book, Holly and Hopeful Hearts: A Bluestocking Belles Collection, and had high hopes for this one.
Profile Image for Angela Withrow TheArdentReader.
242 reviews15 followers
November 4, 2015
This entire collection was a wonderful romp through Christmas time and lives that were not always perfect, almost never were actually, but that is ok!
I would rather read of people with the same imperfections we all have. whether physically, emotionally, financially or otherwise. we are all fallible.
Each story in this book was well written and thought out. I enjoyed it very much!
I would give this set a 5-star rating!
I did receive a courtesy copy, but I also bought my own so I could read it again and again.
This may be my December read for a few years to come! It definitely got me in the mood for the holidays!

All She Wants for Christmas, by Amy Rose Bennett
A rough start to this story! Not the best way to become engaged for certain!
A rake, a bluestocking and a secret. I felt sorry for Tessa, but only in so far as the way her parents treated her secret.
Jasper, the Earl of Arlington has no problem continuing on as the rake he is known to be. But is there more to life than what he has experienced so far?
This was a sweet story with a smidge of insecurity and a dash of excitement. I truly enjoyed every minute of it!
Excellent writing!

The Ultimate Escape, by Susana Ellis
When I started this story I thought, what is time travel doing in my regency romance? But I was happily surprised at how wonderful it fit into the
story! Julia is our main characters name and all she has ever wanted was Oliver. He is of a lower class though so that presents problems that he does not
think can be overcome. Thinking this, he marries someone else. The someone else just happens to be Julia's best friend, so she thought.
Kate knows how much Julia cared for Oliver. But that doesn't seem to matter to Kate at all. Now Kate has passed away and Oliver wants Julia to be his daughters new mother. Julia feels used in a way. She travels a very far distance to get away from it all. The question is, does Oliver love her enough to follow her?
This was very well written! I loved Oliver and Julia for their misguided attempts to save the other from pain.
It was very sweet!

Under the Mistletoe, by Sherry Ewing
Margaret Templeton is willing to accept Captain Morledge’s proposal thinking she has no other options. Until she sees her childhood crush. She never thought she was good enough being a clergyman's daughter. Not good enough for Frederick, Viscount Beacham. Captain Morledge asks Margaret to
help him host a Christmas party at his home, but things are not as they should be there. Some secret is being kept and Maggie must find
out what it is. Frederick is also curious as to why the Captain acts the way he does, he knows the man from previous encounters and rumors among
his friends. He is not happy that Maggie's parents are pushing fro the match.
This was an intriguing short story! I loved the banter between the two friends, Maggie, and Freddy.

‘Tis Her Season, by Mariana Gabrielle
Charlotte Amberly is a headstrong girl in a terrible predicament! Her parents are forcing her into a marriage with a man old enough to be her
grandfather. She is doing her best t o figure out a way to escape this horrible betrothal! The Marquess of Firthley is not anyone she would ever consider
and the thought of the marriage bed disgusts Charlotte.
The Marquess' grandson comes with him and he seems like a snobby man. Not engaging in conversation much with anyone.
Charlotte decides to take matters into her own hands and run away in the night. She wants the season she was promised before her parents decided the Marquess was better than giving Charlotte her season.
The person who happens upon her midnight flight in the middle of a snow storm just happens to be the grandson of her betrothed. Mischief ensues, which I love!
This was another sweet, thoughtful story! So much packed into a short story. I simply loved this one! The ending was wonderful!!

Gingerbread Bride, by Jude Knight
Mary Pritchard grew up on a ship with her father the Admiral. She has seen many lovely places. She is not prepared for London, not used to the ways and the strictures of society. She is traveling and the coach breaks down, she decides to make her own way to a nearby inn. But a man comes upon her before she can reach the inn. Lucky for her, it is her old friend Rick Redepenning.
Here he is to "rescue" her once again. It seems to him that he is always rescuing Mary. Not that it bothers him a jot! And it seems, it doesn't bother her either.
not too awful much anyway! Beautiful characters and the writing was superb! I really like the way Jude Knight uses her words to describe a scene. It makes it seem real to me.
Very lovely story about love that lasts. I enjoyed this one very much.

A Dangerous Nativity, by Caroline Warfield
A dangerous nativity indeed! William, The Earl of Chadbourn comes to his widowed sister's rescue just as the Christmas season is beginning. Her husband has passed and she is not responding to his letters. He is also be made guardian to his young Nephew the new Duke of Murnane.
His sister, Sylvia, he finds very despondent, his nephew, fearful of doing anything the old duke decided was not appropriate for his station.
And a secret in a cottage on the border of the estate. An estate that is in terrible disrepair. He takes the time from his own, well run estate to come and help his sister and the young duke try to bring the place back to some state of repair.
He notices how well run the neighboring farm is and wants to ask how it was done, the cottage he spies is mid size but looks comfortable.
But something is not right there.
I enjoyed this story very much! The intrigue that develops follows a quick pace but not so quick as to lose the nuances of the history of the estate, Eversham Hall.
a good story and I feel the backstory would make a wonderful full-length book! Very good ending!!

Joy to the World, by Nicole Zoltack
Eliza Berkeley is stepping from her carriage on her wedding day, only to find out, her intended is not who he says he is! he is an imposter and has been passing himself off as Stephen Huntington, the Duke of Wyndale. Eliza is devastated, but the real Duke offers to marry her anyway until she is walking up the aisle
and realizes she can not do it. the Duke offers her a way out, a few weeks to get to know the real Stephen and either end the engagement or to marry.
The imposter looks enough like the actual Duke to not cause confusion when this new man comes along. The man who has been posing as Stephen has fled and he would like to investigate and try to catch this man who has run up bills and caused harm to his good name. Eliza is not sure what to do! If she does not marry him, her reputation could suffer greatly. But she does not know this man, and with the recent upheaval, she can not trust her own feelings.
Will Stephen catch the man and will Eliza be able to move on no matter what her decision? The real Stephen, Eliza finds out, is a rake of the first order, but is there more to that story as well?
This was a good solid story with a great plot and executed very well. The writing was good as well, the editing, however, may need to be looked at. I found several mistakes of double words and spelling errors, but it did not take away from the story in total. A great emotional ride!
Profile Image for Evelyn.
125 reviews24 followers
December 11, 2015
Each one of the book in the series is awesome. You would never regret reading this. They might be short but they left lasting impression inside you. The collection consisted of seven different stories from seven Bluestocking Belles. The ladies in these stories have remarkable personalities and their dashing gentlemen awaited for them. Fates have unique ways bringing love in this season of Mistletoe, Marriage and Mayhem

All She Wants for Christmas by Amy Rose Bennett (4.5 stars)

I blushed a lot while reading this story and I love it!!!
Tessa Penrose was compromised when Jasper, the Earl of Arlington, kissed her. The consequence was one that she wanted to avoid. But since the damage was done, she had no choice but to marry him. Jasper couldn’t help it when he saw a beautiful woman after he was awake. When he realized he had to be wed to her, it was not fear but happiness that he felt. Can she trust the infamous rogue with her heart?
Tessa was a bluestocking with deep loyalty to her family. Even though she did not wish to be wed, she still respected her family decision so that their reputation won’t be tarnished.
Jasper was in her studio previously with another woman and he fell asleep. Tessa was trying to take her stocking and slipper and Jasper kept teasing her. Jasper was a thoughtful and sweet man despite her roguish nature.
Their courting sessions were great and I love the way Jasper treated Tessa later on.
A must read!!!

The Ultimate Escape by Susana Ellis (5 stars)

Susana made an awesome story as always and this one was none different.
Lady Julia had been in love with her best friend, Oliver Staton. So when he had married Kate, her close friend, she had been devastated. But Kate died in an accident and Oliver needed a mother for his young daughter. He offered Julia to be his wife. In the eve of their wedding, Julia felt that even though she loved him, she couldn’t marry him because he didn’t love her. The best way to escape was by travelling through time. Could Oliver finally admit his feeling for Julia?
It is a really beautiful story. I felt broken heart while reading the pain she experienced when she heard Kate and Oliver were getting married. The vivid description made me love the book more and more.
When Julia went to London two hundred years later, everything had changed. Luckily, everyone thought that she was dressed for an event. I had to agree that the current clothes we have are much more comfortable.
I enjoy the conversation between Oliver and Julia. They were very thoughtful.

Under the Mistletoe by Sherry Ewing (5 stars)

Margaret Templeton was a beautiful clergyman’s daughter. She was in love with her childhood friend who happened to be the Viscount Beacham. When her father received Captain Sander Morledge’s request to let Margaret as his Christmas party hostess and eventually his wife, she had no choice but to accept because her father thought it would be a good match for each one of them.
So she went to London, Frederick’s friend saw her and told him. Frederick didn’t want to miss his chance to rekindle what they had before. He was still hurt from her refusal so he wanted to seek her out. When he realized that she was in Morledge’s house, he tried to make her stop seeing the Captain.
You will be brought to emotional rollercoaster. The rivalry between Frederick and Sander were really intense and I love Freddy’s protectiveness of Margaret. I love the mistletoes around the house. Smart thinking Frederick!
Love this story!

‘Tis Her Season by Mariana Gabrielle (4.5 stars)

This story had some unexpected twist which I found unique. I’ve never read this kind of story so it was really engaging.
Charlotte Amberly was probably the craziest debutante that I’ve ever read. She was really brave but too impulsive. When her parents forced her to marry the old Marquess of Firthley, she ran away. But the most unexpected thing happened. The heir to the marquessate who happened to be the handsome Alexander Marloughe was drunk when she wanted to take her horse, so he offered to take her to her destination
Alexander Marloughe was angry at his grandpa for making him an heir and his grandpa wanted to marry a girl younger by many decades. So he decided to go get a drink and when he returned, he offered his grandfather’s betrothed to ride into the carriage with him.
Charlotte’s adventure was really fun. I wanted to laugh at the trouble the family got after she left even though I probably shouldn’t.
I really like Alexander’s decision later. He proved to be a great man and I love it that he stole a kiss from Charlotte.
Love it!!!

Gingerbread Bride by Jude Knight (4.5 stars)

Mary Pritchard was an adventurous girl. When her coach broke in the middle of street, she took to her own matter to ride to the destination. Naval Lieutenant Rick Redepenning saw Mary, his late admiral’s daughter, on the street so he wanted to help her. He came back to London for his recovery.
I really love this story. He was really sweet to her, but after one other wrong statement, Mary became distant. I love how he tried to woo her and the story had a great twist.

A Dangerous Nativity by Caroline Warfield (5 stars)

The story was really unique and I enjoy unraveling the story behind it. The Earl of Chadbourn got a really difficult responsibility. He had a great patience to deal with a dramatic sister and a scared nephew. He was a great man. Catherine was an intelligent woman with a lot of responsibility. Not only she took care of the husbandry but alson her brothers. Literally she mothered two of them. Chadbourn and Catherine made a wonderful match.

Joy to the World by Nicole Zoltack (4.5 stars)

I like that when the real duke showed up he decided he wanted to try a courtship with her even though he didn't have to which show that he was a responsible duke.

I received a complimentary copy of this collection in exchange of an honest review.
Profile Image for Courtney.
4,289 reviews
December 5, 2022
This novel had a lot of good moments, a lot of sweet moments; BUT it also had lot of just okay moments that really didn't bring the same warm smile to my face as the other moments had. However, even though there were times when it would lull and I would begin to ponder about choosing another novel,  something would grab my attention again- just enough to reel me back in to stick by the side of this author. In the end, though, I'm glad I finished reading this novel.
Profile Image for Avid Reader.
664 reviews4 followers
January 24, 2024
Enjoyable read

A collection of short stories set at Christmas filled with love, laughter, action, villains, a bit of time travel, humour and a goat playing an angel. There is something for everyone. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Zeinab Dh.
1,504 reviews37 followers
June 9, 2019
This is a nice collection to read. I enjoyed each story. Each one is well written with nice plot and characters I enjoyed it and chose to review it
Profile Image for Lisa  Montgomery.
789 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2016
"All She Wants for Christmas" is the first story in the collection. It is from Amy Rose Bennett. This story uses the Regency motif of a rake, Jasper Hargreaves, the Earl of Arlington, ruining the perpetual bluestocking, Tessa Penrose. I found the story a bit predictable, and I wasn't fond of Ms. Bennet turning Arlington from an Alpha hero to a Beta one.

Susanna Ellis' story is the second one in the collection. It is entitled "The Ultimate Escape." One of my problems in this story is the use of the time slip motif. I am not reader of this type of book, not even Outlander. What I thought as I read this one was that the time slip did nothing to advance the plot. The story would have been more entertaining without it. Also, most of chapters 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are narration. There were some other errors. Early on in the story, Lady Pendleton traveled to the 20th Century, while her daughter Julia goes to the 21st Century. They find the same things, which was the problem.

"Under the Mistletoe" is story 3. It is from Sherry Ewing. I actually liked the characterization of Viscount Beacham (Frederick Maddock) and Margaret Templeton. I also hope Ms. Ewing plans to write more of Digby Osgood. He was an excellent sidekick to Beacham. There were shades of Jane Eyre with the wife hidden in the attic story line. In the writing, Ms. Ewing frequently switches point of view, which is a bit hard to follow.

Mariana Gabrielle writes the 4th story, which is entitled "'Tis Her Season." This was one of the better offerings in the collection. Charlotte Amberly's brother wishes her to marry the elderly Marquess of Firthley, but it is his son, Alexander Marloughe, the Earl of Herrendon, who captures her heart.

Jude Knight's tale of the "Gingerbread Bride" brings a lighthearted love story between two old friends: Miss Mary Pritchard and Lieutenant Rick Redepenning.

"A Dangerous Nativity" comes to us from Caroline Warfield. This is by far the best of the tales in the book. It combines good storytelling and a large dose of humor. I adored William Landrum, the Earl of Chadbourn.

The last story in the collection is "Joy to the World" from Nicole Zoltack. Eliza Berkeley is to marry the Duke of Wyndale, although they've known each other only a month. The Wyndale she knows does not show for their wedding, but the real Stephen Huntington does. The ending is weak in this piece. It was as if the author couldn't make her mind as to how to end the story.
Profile Image for Dee Deacon Foster.
423 reviews19 followers
November 3, 2015
Seven awesome authors = seven wonderfully sweet stories. From the spinster with a “horrible” secret & her “damaged” rake; to a Lady engaged to marry the man she’s only loved but is now unsure of his reason behind marrying her; to the bluestocking who would rather not marry but will to ease her father’s mind – but is she marrying the right man?; to the young Lady engaged before her first season who decides she wants that season at all costs & the gentleman who helps her on her way; to the girl who grew up on the sea but now that her father is gone finds herself at sea in a different way; to the Earl who must manage his estates & those of his sister & nephew and the mystery surrounding their neighbors; to a Duke’s imposter & the havoc he wrecks – these are all stories that will have you laughing, crying, and wanting to punch someone. But most of all they will have you falling in love with the authors, their characters & having you believe in the magic of Christmas.
Kudos to Amy Rose Bennett, Susana Ellis, Sherry Ewing, Mariana Gabrielle, Jude Knight, Caroline Warfield & Nicole Zoltack – all new to me authors that have now made my TBR (to be read) pile grow larger. Looking forward to reading more from these talented ladies!!!!
Profile Image for Dee Deacon Foster.
423 reviews19 followers
May 8, 2016
Seven awesome authors = seven wonderfully sweet stories. From the spinster with a “horrible” secret & her “damaged” rake; to a Lady engaged to marry the man she’s only loved but is now unsure of his reason behind marrying her; to the bluestocking who would rather not marry but will to ease her father’s mind – but is she marrying the right man?; to the young Lady engaged before her first season who decides she wants that season at all costs & the gentleman who helps her on her way; to the girl who grew up on the sea but now that her father is gone finds herself at sea in a different way; to the Earl who must manage his estates & those of his sister & nephew and the mystery surrounding their neighbors; to a Duke’s imposter & the havoc he wrecks – these are all stories that will have you laughing, crying, and wanting to punch someone. But most of all they will have you falling in love with the authors, their characters & having you believe in the magic of Christmas.
Kudos to Amy Rose Bennett, Susana Ellis, Sherry Ewing, Mariana Gabrielle, Jude Knight, Caroline Warfield & Nicole Zoltack – all new to me authors that have now made my TBR (to be read) pile grow larger. Looking forward to reading more from these talented ladies!!!!
Profile Image for Tracey Parker.
310 reviews5 followers
November 4, 2015
All She Wants for Christmas~ Amy Rose Bennett~ This was such a great sweet story. Tessa is twenty five and keeps busy with art and donating to charities. Upon unfortunate circumstances she is caught kissing Jasper. With them knowing nothing about each other they try to make a marriage work but his past could make trouble. I really enjoyed this story!
The Ultimate Escape~ Susana Ellis~What a fun and wonderful way to do time travel. It had the perfect amount of the past and future mixed in. I really liked this story!
Under the Mistletoe~ Sherry Ewing~ Wow what a suspenseful story. Being forced to play hostess, Margaret, finds herself reviewing if the Captain could be her husband, while trying to deny her feelins for her old friend who ahe refused marriage too years ago. But all is not jow it seems in the Captains house. This was a great story that I enjoyed.
'Tis Her Season ~ Marianna Gabrielle~
Profile Image for Quenby Olson.
Author 25 books285 followers
November 18, 2015
This almost borders on a 4.5 star read for me. Seven historical romance stories, all of them long enough to allow you to get to know the characters and understand the reasoning behind their actions. Some of the stories were stronger than others, but that is how it always works with anthologies containing the work of multiple authors. But I was delighted by so much of this book, and so very glad that I bought it (which also helps the Malala Fund, so it's great knowing that the money is going to a truly wonderful cause).

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a lovely read to curl up with on a frosty winter night!
Profile Image for Jeene Hobbs.
558 reviews1 follower
January 1, 2016
Another good holiday read

I have spent December 2015 reading holiday romances and this is the final one in my cue. All of the authors in this collection were new to me and I have already picked two Caroline Warfield books to read in the new year.

Some of the stories in this set involve how little control women had over their lives especially from physical and emotional abuse. I also got to wondering what percent of noble women were regular drug users to cope with their situation and how that affected their unborn children who became the next generation of nobility.

It's a good set of stories but not necessarily light and cheery holiday fare. Worth reading.
Profile Image for Doreen.
Author 2 books10 followers
December 17, 2016
There are two possible problems with an anthology, especially one containing as many stories as this. Firstly there's the possibility that you may already have read at least one of the stories. Secondly there's the "makeweight" story, put in to make up the numbers, but frankly not up to the standard of the rest.
Thankfully neither of these problems occurs here. The stories were written specially for this anthology, and all by good writers writing at their best level. My personal favourites? "The Gingerbread Bride" and "A Dangerous Nativity", but it was difficult to choose.
Profile Image for Teri Donaldson.
315 reviews6 followers
March 27, 2016
I loved this book! It was my introduction to many wonderful and new to me authors. Each story was a delightful and fairly quick read. I have gone on to read many of their full length novels. I am now one of The Belles Brigade and communicate regularly with each of these wonderful authors. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Patricia West.
177 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2015
Regency Romances

These seven novellas set in
Regency England were a fun read. One that really tickled me involved a trip to the future by a hurt almost bride. I would recommend this collection to anyone who enjoys these types of romances
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,088 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2015
An entertaining collection of romances.

Different authors, different styles, but all with a similar feel and tone. A delightful way to escape and enjoy the capers of these Bluestocking ladies.
Profile Image for Teri Donaldson.
96 reviews3 followers
March 28, 2016
I loved this book! It provided me with an opportunity to read delightful stories by "new to me" authors. I am now reading their full length novels. Each story is fairly short, but wonderful. I look forward to their next anthology and am now one of The Belles Brigade, which is so much fun.
Profile Image for Alyssa.
38 reviews
December 16, 2015
Love this book, Short lighthearted easy to read Christmas stories. Loved reading each one was a perfect way to unwind after a long day. Thank you
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