Midsummer Night (A Timeless Romance Anthology Book 23)

Fabulous Fantasy

Six fantasy authors have pooled their talents to create this magical anthology. Having read some of author Amber Argyle’s series, I was delighted to discover her tale here fits into her Forbidden Forest universe and works as a marvelous teaser for that artfully developed world. Looking to escape modern reality for awhile? Dive into this set of stories!

I gave this four stars because I think if you enjoy fantasy then you’d probably say it was at least that. For my own personal enjoyment it was probably a bit less because I’m not really into fantasy. I do read some on occasion but not often. However, I like the Timeless series of books so I thought I’d give it a go.

The most fun element of the book for me is the idea of celebrating the summer solstice. My mother was Swedish so I grew up with some Midsommar (Swedish spelling) traditions or at least was aware of them. And while I believe the origins of the celebrations were probably pagan rituals etc and may have been more closely aligned with some of the stuff in this book I found any mention of Midsommar in the book lit up my eyes in memory of my mother. For my mother it was more dancing and singing around the May pole rather than there being some belief in magic etc… I don’t recall ever doing it but I do remember the idea of collecting wild flowers to put under my pillow to dream of my true love. Okay, so maybe I did it once.

There was generally some element of magic involved in each of the stories. One had mind reading, one had a ghost and another had time travel. I liked most of the main characters. If I had to pick a favorite of the stories I’d have to say Dancing with the Moon by Julie Wright. And the thing I liked best about it is that whenever the ghost needed to do something he ended up where he needed to be without really trying. And when he knew he needed to get help he ended up on the other side of the kingdom with Grace because she was the one who would be willing to help him. I think it said a lot about her character.

Sex: No. A character had previously miscarried a baby conceived out of wedlock.
Language: I think just once?
Violence: Some.

Illusions of love (Ch. Holmberg)
Aster is a very capable assistant to a renowned magician, Celtin, and his apprentice Drummond.She loves her job, and not only that. But the differences in social status makes it impossible for her to reveal her feelings – desperate, she goes on a fool’s quest, casting an illusion to test the waters.
Lovely short romance full of colors and emotions, twinkling illusions, and the manners of the old world full of gentlemen, morals, and proper behavior. Innocence and passion shine from the words, and the story flew very fast over. Quick and very enjoyable read.

Dancing with the moon (J. Wright)
How would it feel like to be enchanted by a ghost and fall in love with him? Respond to the attraction to the point of leaving a family and go on the road, travel to the opposite side of the country to save the royal family, and see the world meanwhile? Grace could tell you all, from the moment a handsome guard called Arell suddenly appeared on her, ehm, doorstep?
Fearless, intelligent, and compassionate heroine gently wormed her way into my heart, and every piece of hope an happiness reflecting on the pages made me smile. She was adorable in the way she was able to put men into their places, and Arell was quite funny denying his ghostly nature. Their journey is nice little adventure with a happy end, and the reader will certainly relax while following their steps.

Lady of Shadows (A. Argyle)
A story of a partially disabled yet fierce and fearless woman who entered the Forbidden Forest aware of the death lurking inside… and found love instead. Learning the secrets of Alamant, Caelia has found a new life, one she has to build from scratch and find her place in, though not alone, supported by a great man and old friend.
This story has the edge of darkness and shadows in it, with the wraiths being ever-present threat and the curse tying the tongues of those who know the secrets. Learning the hard way is the only way, and if you want the knowledge you must risk everything… Caelia risked, as with her pain and grief she had nothing to lose, and gained something valuable and beautiful. Let everyone find her own Gendrin, a kindred spirit with the soul of protector and skills of a proficient warrior. They found the safe haven, full of hope; but many adventures are waiting, and the darkness is just beyond the gates..

Illusion – Charlie Holmberg
This was such a sweet little story, and I just loved it. I would absolutely love to see more of Aster and Celtic, and learn more about the magic in this world.

Dancing with the Moon – Julie Wright
This was such an interesting story. I was enthralled with it and didn’t want to put it down. I loved how strong and compassionate Grace was, and the chemistry between Grace and Arell grew perfectly as the story progressed.

The Truest Treasure – Annette Lyon
This was a great little story with much more suspense than I expected. I loved the world it was built inside of.

The Isle of Rose – Jane Redd
I really loved the suspense in this story, a unique twist on a marriage of convenience. I’d love to read more about Moss and Cornelia!

Lady of Shadows – Amber Argyle
This story was absolutely fantastic. Such an incredibly interesting world, and one I need to know so much more about.

Fire and Fountain – Luisa Perkins
This was quite the an interesting story. I really loved the traveling back in time and how Lucie had to learn to fit in.