Shaykitteh's World of Books

I've always enjoyed well-written regency romances. They're the ones where the author has actually put time and effort into learning the locations, customs, and traditions of the time along with how the different classes interacted. A regency romance always reminds me of an elaborate dance where everyone knows the moves but hey just have to learn how not to step on each other's toes. The flirtation and interplay between what can and can't be said (or done!) is always fascinating to me.

One Winter's Night is a collection of four regency romances, all set around Christmas. To me, this was a great collection because instead of the oft-used "innocent girl meets reformed rake" the heroes and heroines break the mold and show experiences and personalities that make them unique.

YULE BE MINE - Priscilla and her second husband, Neville, are spending the holidays at the family estate. When a collection of friends and family show up to share the yuletide, the family is thrown into a dangerous escapade... is one of their guests a killer? This story was great because it showed a women with children celebrating a new marriage while simultaneous showing that having a family doesn't have to slow you down when it comes to love or adventure.

NO ROOM AT THE INN - Five years ago her husband dies, Rosemary is astonished to learn that his commanding officer intends to marry her to fulfill a promise made to her late spouse. As an independent women struggling to raise her young son, Rosemary must make the choice between love and pride. Showing that love can cross the barriers of class and the expectations of man, Rosemary and Arthur made me laugh and smile.

IN THE SEASON OF LIGHT - Two years before, Violet's repuation was ruined when the man she was eloping with was discovered to be already married. When her sister and brother-in-law are reported as lost at sea, Violet must put aside her regret to help raise her nephews and niece. She isn't in this alone, however: James, Earl of Greenlough, helps her share the responsibility of giving the children one last happy Christmas. But will Violet - a "sullied" woman - and James - a rake by reputation - find that there is more bringing them together than the children? This story is full of sadness, hope, understanding, and love.

A SEASON FOR GIVING - Christopher de Wynter is a man with a mission and a secret. Working on building a better fuse for the navy, a saboteur throws a wench into his plan by blowing up his prototype and workshop. Christopher is forced to continue his work at home, where is finds that the holiday celebrations include a few more surprises, including a young woman who sees more than most people would imagine. Full of whimsy, laughter, and romance, this story shows brings a little extra magic to Christmas.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.