Synopsis:
In GREAT SCOT by Suzanne Enoch, Jane Bansil knows she will never have a fairy-tale life. But even at three-and-thirty and well past marriageable age, though, she has to admit that the architect the MacTaggerts have hired could turn even a confirmed spinster’s head.
In CHRISTMAS AT DEWBERRY HOLLOW by Amelia Grey, Isabelle Reed has no plans to ever fall in love. Certainly not with Gate, a man who doesn’t live in Dewberry Hollow. She will fulfill her duty and help him keep his promise to have his ill grandfather back in London in time for Christmas dinner. The last thing Isabelle wants is for Gate to take her heart with him when he goes.
In MY MISTLETOE BEAU by Anna Bennett, Miss Eva Tiding is determined to cheer her widowed father with the perfect Christmas gift. Even if it means breaking into the home of the rakish earl who swindled Papa out of his pocket watch and pretending to date the earl for the Christmas season.
My Review:
This was an enjoyable anthology overall, though the three included novellas varied wildly in quality.
First up: Great Scot! by Suzanne Enoch – This was truly excellent. I was a bit confused at first because I didn’t recognize any of the characters and it seemed as if I should have — which made more sense once I realized this was actually part of a series. Oops. Once I accepted that, however, I had no issues. And it really didn’t seem to matter once the romance got going; the other characters faded into the background. As they should. The characters were lovely, the romance sweet and believable, and really it was just delightful. I’m rather shocked I haven’t read Suzanne Enoch’s work before and I’ll definitely be seeking it out in future. 5 stars
Next: Christmas at Dewberry Hollow by Amelia Grey – This was a severe disappointment compared to the other two novellas. The writing was definitely not of the same caliber, and I found myself having to read around the words and skimming just to get to the end. The story itself was lackluster though I did appreciate the characters. 2 stars
Finally: My Mistletoe Beau by Anna Bennett – I really enjoyed this one. It was a lovely fake relationship antagonistic relationship with two strong-willed people and plenty of sparks. Aside from a few questionable name choices — Frostbough? Rufflebum??? — it was great fun to read. I’ll be reading more by Anna Bennett for sure. 4.5 stars
So, like I said, a bit of a mixed bag, but there’s more than enough here to make reading this worthwhile, especially if you enjoy a wintry Christmas romance.
*Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing an e-arc for review.
Whimsical Dragonette 