From the glittering ballrooms of the English nobility to the cozy countryside of Regency lords and ladies, cuddle up this Christmas with three swoon-worthy holiday tales filled with dashing heroes, bold heroines and epic true love from USA Today bestselling author Julie Johnstone!The Redemption of a Dissolute Earl – Book 1 Season for Surrender – Book 2 It’s in the Duke’s Kiss – Book 3
This was a very entertaining, boxed set of three charming regency novellas by author Julie Johnstone. It includes The Redemption of a Dissolute Earl, Season for Surrender, and It’s In The Duke’s Kiss, all which were offerings of Danby Family novellas originally released as standalone works. All stories were quite good with likable characters, good dialogue, plausible plots, and of course the necessary romance leading to a happily ever after. The third story, It’s In The Duke’s Kiss, was my favorite of the three. I recommend this box set as it is a good bargain for what you get…very enjoyable, Regency romance reads. Overall rating of the three: 4 ½ stars.
Book 1: The Redemption of a Dissolute Earl
Andrew Whitton, Earl of Hardwicke has thrown away true love with both hands. Now he lives in solitude drinking away his heart break. When his grandfather summons him home, he embarks on a journey that sets him on a collision course with the girl of his dreams. Charlotte Milne was completely shattered when Andrew walked away from her. She has built herself a separate life on the stage and is scheduled to marry a man she doesn’t love. When Andrew discovers she is soon to marry, he set out to win her back before it’s too late. Can he make up for the hurt and devastation he has caused?
This was a really good story. I truly enjoyed it.
Book 2: Season for Surrender
Nicholas Beckford Baron Edgeworth must find a wife in a matter of weeks in order to maintain his living. Without a wife, he will be cut off from his money. When Lillian Lancaster proposes a strict marriage of convenience, Nick agrees. But what happens when attraction proves too much? I really enjoyed this story. Nick is one of my favorite heroes. “No man should have cheekbones as sculpted as his, or eyes as green as moss or hair so thick and dark it made her want to plunge her fingers through it.” Really enjoying this collection of stories.
Book 3: It’s in the Duke’s Kiss
Lady Emmaline Radcliffe is desperately in love with Nathaniel Layton – in fact, she has dreamed of him since she was a little girl. But when her eyes are opened to the true character of her life long crush, she finds another more honorable man holds her attention. ‘He moved closer until they almost touched. Her body seemed to lean toward his, and then his fingers slid into her hair, cupping the back of her head, and he lowered his mouth to hers. Their lips brushed ever so gently, yet the power of their contact almost brought her to her knees.” Fantastic story!
I was gifted a copy of this collection.
I received an ARC of this book for a honest review. Once again, the author has spun not 1 but 3 delightful stories in one book that was hard to put down. Each story was a lot of fun to read.
These is a lovely collection of long novellas, I enjoyed the fact that they were all interconnected and you felt like you were reading about old friends. Each story was different so there was no chance of you getting bored. Ms Johnson has a lovely way of writing true love stories. They were a nice clean read with enough little twists to keep you turning the page. I received these as an ARC and was very happy to give my review. I look forward to reading many more of Ms Johnstons books.
The Redemption of a Dissolute Earl
Andrew Whitton, Earl of Hardwick has found money does indeed make a cold bed partner especially since he chose his fortune over the woman he loved. Loved and abandoned Charlotte Milne was seduced and abandoned by her beloved Drew. He’s haunted by the betrayal and they’ve each struggle to bury the memories of a lost love from the past. A summons from the Duke of Danby changes everything. Now Drew must find a way to show Char he’s a changed and redeemed man, the only man for her.
Season for Surrender
Lillian Lancaster recently deceased father’s will stipulates her inheritance hinges upon her marrying a lord. Lillian has no desire to marry, but if she wants to keep her money and the theater she must find a Lord to marry. Time is running out she knows drastic measures are called for when she proposes to Lord Nicholas Edgeworth a marriage in name only. Nicholas and Lillian’s relation grows until neither can deny the love they thought they didn’t need was there for the taking, if they’re willing to forget the past and reach for a future together and live happily ever after.
It’s in the Duke’s Kiss
Lady Emmaline Radcliffe mother threatens to secure a suitable match for Emma if she cannot make one on her own. Emmaline has had a childhood infatuation on Nathaniel, but when she starts spending time with him she finds herself in the arms of his brother Lucian, the Duke of Blackbourne. Lucian knows his brother has set out to seduce the young innocent lady so he tries to stop him, before their all ruined beyond compare. Lucian seems drawn to Emmaline and soon finds himself wanting more than he ever knew he desire, Emmaline for himself. It was fun watching their relationship grow and develop into a love to last a lifetime.
A great collection of love stories for Christmas. This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.