Midsummer Delights by Eloisa James A Short Story Collection Genre: Adult Historical Romance Publisher: Avon Impulse Publication Date: February 6, 2018
She wants to escape her present . . .
When Clara Mayfield helps her sister elope, she’s prepared for the scandal to seal her fate as a spinster. What she doesn’t expect is to find herself engaged to the vile Baron Rutherford as a means of salvaging her family’s reputation. Determined not to be chained to a man she loathes, Clara slips out of Essex and sheds her identity: she becomes Helen, maid at the Earl of Ashworth’s country estate. After all, below stairs is the last place anyone would think to look for an heiress . . .
He wants to forget his past . . .
William, Lord Ashworth, is attempting to rebuild his life after the devastating accident that claimed the lives of his entire family, save his beloved sister and niece. Haunted by memories of what was and determined to live up to the title he never expected to inherit, William doesn’t have time for love. What he needs is a noble and accomplished wife, one who can further the Ashworth line and keep the family name untarnished . . .
Together, can they find the perfect future?
From their first encounter, the attraction between them is undeniable. But Clara knows William is falling for Helen, a woman who doesn’t even exist. The question is, if she reveals the truth about her identity, can she trust the broken William to forgive her lie and stand by her side when scandal—and the baron—inevitably follow her to his door?
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Review:
A fun little “snack” for your reading pleasure!
The first and longest story, A Midsummer Night’s Disgrace was also found in The Official Essex Sisters Companion Guide Pleasure for Pleasure
At Midnight is another story told from a single character POV, this time the hero, Eli. He’s been in love with the same girl since childhood, but has convinced himself that they can never be–in fact, he’s bracing himself for his best friend’s midnight proposal to that same girl (spoiler alert–the best friend isn’t thrilled either). Can these relationships be saved? (Of course they can. But wait until you see how Ms. James does it–there’s a nod to Cinderella here that makes for a fun twist.)
Ever After was apparently published in the print version of The Ugly Duchess
All together, Midsummer Delights is a fun, quick read that’s perfect for a cozy evening paired up with a cup or two of tea. Plus, there’s a teaser chapter for the next Wildes of Lindow Castle book ( Too Wilde to Wed ) at the end that has me more anxious than ever for its release.
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
About Eloisa James:
http://www.eloisajames.com .
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