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Westmoreland Saga #3.5
A Holiday of Love
When the weather outside is frightful, what better way to warm up than with four magnificent new tales of love and adventure from your favorite romance authors? Slip into a bubble bath or curl up in front of a roaring fire—and let Jude Deveraux. Judith McNaught, Arnette Lamb & Jill Barnett whisk you away... to New York in the late 1800s, where a beautiful but clumsy angel turns a lonely man's life around... to medieval Scotland, where intrigues surrounding a Christmas Mass imperil two Highland lovers... to Regency London, where a world-weary lord receives an outrageous proposal... to modern-day Colorado, where a daring and clever twelve-year-old plays matchmaker for his bighearted, impractical mother... to a world where love always reigns supreme!
384 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
About the author
Judith McNaught
68 books7,531 followersYou can find Judith McNaught in facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjudith...
Judith McNaught is a #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author, with more than forty million copies of her novels in print, in over eighty countries and more than thirty languages. She was also the first female executive producer at a CBS radio station. McNaught is credited with inventing the modern Regency Historical romance subgenre.
Judith McNaught is a #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author, with more than forty million copies of her novels in print, in over eighty countries and more than thirty languages. She was also the first female executive producer at a CBS radio station. McNaught is credited with inventing the modern Regency Historical romance subgenre.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
November 21, 2015
This review is based solely on Judith McNaught's story, Miracles, in this anthology.
I have to say, I'm rather disappointed. I really think Nicki deserved a much better story than this. It was short, of course, but I've read short stories with excellent storyline and character relationships. Unfortunately, this wasn't one of them.
He played such an important role in Whitney, My Love and Until You that what he was given in Miracles just seemed... insulting. He deserved a full length novel with a true happily ever after worthy of Ms. McNaught's characters and it broke my heart that he didn't get it.
June 7, 2019
I have started a new tag since I bought this book. 'Anthologies that are worth purchasing for one story.' I have not read the other stories but Daniel and the Angel.
This historical romance was a little gem. At slightly under 100 pages it was one of those stories that was both uplifting and heartwarming.
Daniel had money. Lots of money. He thought he was happy until he ran into Lillian. Literally. One minute she was not there, the next she was and he thought she was hurt.
Regarding his money:
Lilli: "Did you ever hear the expression 'You can't take it with you'?"
Daniel: "Of course."
Lilli: "Where I come from, wealth doesn't matter."
Daniel: "Then it's probably a place I'd rather not visit."
Lilli: "I don't think that will be a problem."
On where she lives:
Lilli: "...I don't know where I live."
Daniel: "How convenient."
Lilli: "You don't believe me?"
Daniel: "No. I don't believe you."
Lilli: "I'm sorry."
Daniel: "I don't want apologies, just answers."
Lilli: "I wasn't apologizing. I'm sorry for you."
~~~~~
Read this story if you are feeling low and want a gentle romance. Read it for the dark brooding hero. Or buy it for their quirky conversations. Suffice-to-say, Lilli showed Daniel the true meaning of happiness.
This historical romance was a little gem. At slightly under 100 pages it was one of those stories that was both uplifting and heartwarming.
Daniel had money. Lots of money. He thought he was happy until he ran into Lillian. Literally. One minute she was not there, the next she was and he thought she was hurt.
Regarding his money:
Lilli: "Did you ever hear the expression 'You can't take it with you'?"
Daniel: "Of course."
Lilli: "Where I come from, wealth doesn't matter."
Daniel: "Then it's probably a place I'd rather not visit."
Lilli: "I don't think that will be a problem."
On where she lives:
Lilli: "...I don't know where I live."
Daniel: "How convenient."
Lilli: "You don't believe me?"
Daniel: "No. I don't believe you."
Lilli: "I'm sorry."
Daniel: "I don't want apologies, just answers."
Lilli: "I wasn't apologizing. I'm sorry for you."
~~~~~
Read this story if you are feeling low and want a gentle romance. Read it for the dark brooding hero. Or buy it for their quirky conversations. Suffice-to-say, Lilli showed Daniel the true meaning of happiness.
![Profile Image for ᑭᑌᑎƳᗩ [Punya Reviews...].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1572968006i/3840999._UX200_CR0,33,200,200_.jpg)
July 13, 2011
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book.
This review is solely based on Judith McNaught's novella "Miracles", the story of Nicki DuVille from "Whitney, My Love" and Julianna Skeffington from "Until You". Nicki was also featured in UY. I have to mention that I don't always enjoy novellas due to some reasons such as the story, most of the times, ends even before I take some breath, sit back and relax. But, even though novellas are short, the satisfaction level mostly depends on the authors and the plotting/narration of the story in question. "Miracles" has 12 small chapters and an epilogue.
"Miracles", Judith McNaught
After my 2nd reading of the book...
From my rating you can already see I didn't find this one quite satisfactory. Mostly because, I thought it could've been made a wonderful full-length novel. Nicki did deserve his own book after the parts he played in both WML and UY. Though I hated him for the most part in this novella, I liked Julianna a lot and would've loved to see more of the character explorations. The story, honestly felt like, a b c d then straight to y and z. Finished! Hope you understand my meaning.
We already know from UY that Julianna's parents aren't very rich. Her father is a mere baron and a man who's always drenched in Madeira. Her mother is really awful, a very pushy and ambitious woman. It's her plan to marry Julianna, who is very lovely to look upon, off to anyone with a title and money. But, Lady Skeffington can't help but targeting the biggest catches of the marriage mart. And this year, it's Nicki DuVille. He's part French, part Scot and is going to be the next Earl of Glenmore soon enough. But, Julianna doesn't wanna get married. She has her hopes and dreams, aspirations of becoming a writer, something that was inspired by her deceased grandmama Sarah. Julianna's dreams are only scoffed and then berated at by her mother but she hangs on. Nicki, on the other hand, is a dissolute man, a notorious womanizer but his life is boring and he craves something to pull him out of this.
When they first met at a park, Nicki and Julianna parted ways after a little word exchange. It was funny but also annoying the way Julianna's mom 'initiated' the introduction. Nicki didn't remember her of course. Then at a masquerade ball, after a failed rendezvous with the hostess, one of the high society hussies and his lover, Nicki sees Julianna in the garden. He'd just refused a tryst with that woman and was about to go to his room to get some sleep. Julianna, who was hiding from her mother and a bit drunk at that point, was praying to God and talking to her grandmama's spirit [note: there are scenes with her grandmama that leads to this, I won't mention those]. When Nicki finds her crying and offers her a handkerchief, Julianna thought he was God. Ermm, yah ... I know, sounds absurd. Then of course she recognises Nicki (he didn't) and asks him to ruin her. It wasn't the usual way of ruining but a bit more dancing than usual, which was her thought. But Nicki, being the rake and seeing her in 'a bit too revealed' dress, confuses her as a courtesan. He thought she's pouting because her protector might've left her or something and he gladly offers his services in her 'ruining'. He took the word for an innuendo and goes as far as to think if she's any good, he'll offer to make her his mistress! *exasperated sigh*
As they move into his room, Nicki soon realized that she's not a courtesan from her shyness. After a few word exchanges, he snaps at her, asking if she's got any brains. Julianna, a bit offended, starts talking about the philosophies she'd learned from her grand mama and the philosophers she'd read. Nicki is impressed and then they kiss. Julianna gets scared and tries running away ... but, disaster disaster ... The hostess of the ball and Julianna's mother was at the hallway to Nicki's door, looking for her. They see her coming out of his room and you can guess what happens next. Julianna's getting a hasty marriage the very next day with all the loathing and contempt from Nicki's side and her mom's getting what she wanted all along. Poor girl. She didn't deserve what she gets next, which is where the story ends too hastily, in about 3 more chapters. I was pretty annoyed. Nicki dumps her at one of his smallest, not-so-very important estates and proceeds to forget about her just the way all the other JM heroes does (except for Royce and Ian); by screwing around, hither and yon! I WAS MAD!!!!!! :@
I mean, really Nicki? You choose to f*ck all these shallow, lose women but you punish/humiliate this girl, whom you yourself deemed as very intelligent and bright ... for what? Just because your overheated, narrow brain thought she duped you into marrying her? You heard her talking about furs and stuffs with her mom and you think she's a 'scheming little slut'? Oh of course, you'd know about those kinds since those are the types you always prefer. So, what was wrong with this little slut? Got you scared, didn't she? I take it back when I called you a gentleman in my review of "Until You" because you aren't one. You don't deserve a girl like Julianna, you hypocritical, cheating SOB! You never gave her a chance to explain herself while she tried and tried, in all the ways she could.
Finally, Nicki comes back to take her to his home for Christmas because his mother was very ill. Julianna already sold her first manuscript to a publisher and was planning her freedom. His coming back makes her hopes soar but is soon deflated by Nicki's announcement. And, even after everything, Julianna tries to do her best to make his family happy and wins his parents' affections. Then, when it was all coming to an end, Julianna knew Nicki would leave her again, so she does one thing that could explain her standing in this disaster. Julianna told her grand mama that she'd write her letters telling her things about her life even after she passed away. And, Julianna's been doing that for the last 3 yrs. She gives all the letters to Nicki; even though she knew she'd be exposed, vulnerable and there's every chance that he'd reject her efforts. And, Nicki was almost doing that when he starts reading one of the letters and ended up reading them all. These letters clarify things to him, makes him see Julianna in a new light. Then they make up and goes to make heirs, as the epilogue will tell you. El fin!
I really couldn't believe that after the abominable way he treated her, a few letters solved all of Nicky's problems, doubts regarding Julianna. Just like that? I 'yuked' at the details of his liaisons, those were just too much for me. Not so much by descriptions but by mentioning a few things. I absolutely hated it. And, I don't care for a hypocritical, mean, cheating hero much, which Nicki was from the beginning til the end. Also, if it was a full novel, I think I would've enjoyed the ups and downs of their relationship after the marriage and then their making up. There was no love scene in the book. I read somewhere quite sometimes ago that JM was planning to make a full novel out of this one but not sure if the info was correct. It's been a long time since this novella came out so I don't think there would be any full novel in the future. But if there is, I'd be willing to give it a try.
A very reluctant 2.5 stars.
This review is solely based on Judith McNaught's novella "Miracles", the story of Nicki DuVille from "Whitney, My Love" and Julianna Skeffington from "Until You". Nicki was also featured in UY. I have to mention that I don't always enjoy novellas due to some reasons such as the story, most of the times, ends even before I take some breath, sit back and relax. But, even though novellas are short, the satisfaction level mostly depends on the authors and the plotting/narration of the story in question. "Miracles" has 12 small chapters and an epilogue.
"Miracles", Judith McNaught
After my 2nd reading of the book...
From my rating you can already see I didn't find this one quite satisfactory. Mostly because, I thought it could've been made a wonderful full-length novel. Nicki did deserve his own book after the parts he played in both WML and UY. Though I hated him for the most part in this novella, I liked Julianna a lot and would've loved to see more of the character explorations. The story, honestly felt like, a b c d then straight to y and z. Finished! Hope you understand my meaning.
We already know from UY that Julianna's parents aren't very rich. Her father is a mere baron and a man who's always drenched in Madeira. Her mother is really awful, a very pushy and ambitious woman. It's her plan to marry Julianna, who is very lovely to look upon, off to anyone with a title and money. But, Lady Skeffington can't help but targeting the biggest catches of the marriage mart. And this year, it's Nicki DuVille. He's part French, part Scot and is going to be the next Earl of Glenmore soon enough. But, Julianna doesn't wanna get married. She has her hopes and dreams, aspirations of becoming a writer, something that was inspired by her deceased grandmama Sarah. Julianna's dreams are only scoffed and then berated at by her mother but she hangs on. Nicki, on the other hand, is a dissolute man, a notorious womanizer but his life is boring and he craves something to pull him out of this.
When they first met at a park, Nicki and Julianna parted ways after a little word exchange. It was funny but also annoying the way Julianna's mom 'initiated' the introduction. Nicki didn't remember her of course. Then at a masquerade ball, after a failed rendezvous with the hostess, one of the high society hussies and his lover, Nicki sees Julianna in the garden. He'd just refused a tryst with that woman and was about to go to his room to get some sleep. Julianna, who was hiding from her mother and a bit drunk at that point, was praying to God and talking to her grandmama's spirit [note: there are scenes with her grandmama that leads to this, I won't mention those]. When Nicki finds her crying and offers her a handkerchief, Julianna thought he was God. Ermm, yah ... I know, sounds absurd. Then of course she recognises Nicki (he didn't) and asks him to ruin her. It wasn't the usual way of ruining but a bit more dancing than usual, which was her thought. But Nicki, being the rake and seeing her in 'a bit too revealed' dress, confuses her as a courtesan. He thought she's pouting because her protector might've left her or something and he gladly offers his services in her 'ruining'. He took the word for an innuendo and goes as far as to think if she's any good, he'll offer to make her his mistress! *exasperated sigh*
As they move into his room, Nicki soon realized that she's not a courtesan from her shyness. After a few word exchanges, he snaps at her, asking if she's got any brains. Julianna, a bit offended, starts talking about the philosophies she'd learned from her grand mama and the philosophers she'd read. Nicki is impressed and then they kiss. Julianna gets scared and tries running away ... but, disaster disaster ... The hostess of the ball and Julianna's mother was at the hallway to Nicki's door, looking for her. They see her coming out of his room and you can guess what happens next. Julianna's getting a hasty marriage the very next day with all the loathing and contempt from Nicki's side and her mom's getting what she wanted all along. Poor girl. She didn't deserve what she gets next, which is where the story ends too hastily, in about 3 more chapters. I was pretty annoyed. Nicki dumps her at one of his smallest, not-so-very important estates and proceeds to forget about her just the way all the other JM heroes does (except for Royce and Ian); by screwing around, hither and yon! I WAS MAD!!!!!! :@
I mean, really Nicki? You choose to f*ck all these shallow, lose women but you punish/humiliate this girl, whom you yourself deemed as very intelligent and bright ... for what? Just because your overheated, narrow brain thought she duped you into marrying her? You heard her talking about furs and stuffs with her mom and you think she's a 'scheming little slut'? Oh of course, you'd know about those kinds since those are the types you always prefer. So, what was wrong with this little slut? Got you scared, didn't she? I take it back when I called you a gentleman in my review of "Until You" because you aren't one. You don't deserve a girl like Julianna, you hypocritical, cheating SOB! You never gave her a chance to explain herself while she tried and tried, in all the ways she could.
Finally, Nicki comes back to take her to his home for Christmas because his mother was very ill. Julianna already sold her first manuscript to a publisher and was planning her freedom. His coming back makes her hopes soar but is soon deflated by Nicki's announcement. And, even after everything, Julianna tries to do her best to make his family happy and wins his parents' affections. Then, when it was all coming to an end, Julianna knew Nicki would leave her again, so she does one thing that could explain her standing in this disaster. Julianna told her grand mama that she'd write her letters telling her things about her life even after she passed away. And, Julianna's been doing that for the last 3 yrs. She gives all the letters to Nicki; even though she knew she'd be exposed, vulnerable and there's every chance that he'd reject her efforts. And, Nicki was almost doing that when he starts reading one of the letters and ended up reading them all. These letters clarify things to him, makes him see Julianna in a new light. Then they make up and goes to make heirs, as the epilogue will tell you. El fin!
I really couldn't believe that after the abominable way he treated her, a few letters solved all of Nicky's problems, doubts regarding Julianna. Just like that? I 'yuked' at the details of his liaisons, those were just too much for me. Not so much by descriptions but by mentioning a few things. I absolutely hated it. And, I don't care for a hypocritical, mean, cheating hero much, which Nicki was from the beginning til the end. Also, if it was a full novel, I think I would've enjoyed the ups and downs of their relationship after the marriage and then their making up. There was no love scene in the book. I read somewhere quite sometimes ago that JM was planning to make a full novel out of this one but not sure if the info was correct. It's been a long time since this novella came out so I don't think there would be any full novel in the future. But if there is, I'd be willing to give it a try.
A very reluctant 2.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2019
My rating and review refer only to Judith McNaught’s novella Miracles.
Nicholas DuVille is an important character in the Westmoreland Series and I was curious to read his story.
For a novella, the characters were well developed and the story was interesting with the right dose of angst.
After loosing Whitney to the Duke of Claymore and kind of loosing Sheridan to Stephen Westmoreland, our hero Nicholas is “living la vida loca” until he confuses a drunk young lady for a courtesan and ends up in a forced marriage.
Nothing very original, but well written and a pleasure to read.
Nicholas DuVille is an important character in the Westmoreland Series and I was curious to read his story.
For a novella, the characters were well developed and the story was interesting with the right dose of angst.
After loosing Whitney to the Duke of Claymore and kind of loosing Sheridan to Stephen Westmoreland, our hero Nicholas is “living la vida loca” until he confuses a drunk young lady for a courtesan and ends up in a forced marriage.
Nothing very original, but well written and a pleasure to read.
April 27, 2019
For Mcnaught's story only. I can't begin to express my disappointment at what a cope out Nicholas's story was. It not even a novella. It felt like Judith wrote it the night before her submission deadline. What a waste of true potential for Nick and Julianna who also deserved a better book than this.
June 12, 2009
I originally bought this book for Judith McNaught's short story about Nicholas DuVille. It's actually one of my least favorites, but I don't mind because it led me to two of the most delightful stories I've ever read.
The first story is Jude Deveraux's story, Change of Heart. It's was my first Jude Deveraux book, and my introduction to the Taggert family. It's just a beautiful, heartwarming story. I'll agree with other reviewers that it wasn't long enough. This could have been a great book, but I'll settle for what we got. Within the confines of a short story, Jude Deveraux was able to create warm, rich characters that I love to revisit time and time again. She was even able to portray likable preteens, a rare feat since teenagers are usually portrayed as adorable, helpless children, or sullen, emotional headcases. Everyone has such great attitudes in this story, well, except for the broody, tortured hero (lol) but he gets over it fairly quickly and sees the light with his heroine, Randy. I don't know if it's because this was released during the holidays, but it was so nice to read. Jude Deveraux is kind of hit and miss with me but this one was a winner.
Second story is Judith McNaught's book, Miracles. I bought this anthology for this book alone and well, I was disappointed. This didn't seem like the Nicholas DuVille I knew from previous books. Judith McNaught does the same flip with Nicki's character as she had done with Stephen Westmoreland's character in Until You. Completely changed his personality. I didn't care for that. I liked the meddling, charismatic frenchman and unfortunately, in his own book, Nicki came across as a cruel boar. It uses one of my most hated plot contrivances. The hero, who knows better, seduces the lady he knows despite how she dresses, is really an innocent, virginal young girl that he should be a million miles away from. He just can't help himself and when he gets caught, he blames the girl for tricking him. Well, keep it in your pants next time, you dumba**. He's forced to marry her, dumps her in one of his countryhouses, then proceeds to ignore her and get on with his life. For a moment I thought Julianna would succeed with her plan to leave him and become an authoress but unfortunately Nicki comes to his senses and returns Julianna's love. Pity.
The third story is Jill Barnett's, Daniel and the Angel. *sigh* My favorite of the short stories and one of my favorite stories all around. This is just a beautiful, rich story, that makes you cry and laugh and smile. Even after all these years, the story of Daniel and his angel can still make me cry. The actual outline of the story doesn't matter. It only matters that the emotion that comes off the pages will blow you away. This story is better then chicken soup when your feelings are down. I would have loved for Jill to have made this into a full length book but that would have been just a scoop of ice cream next to an already perfect slice of cake. This short story really is perfection just the way it is.
The fourth story is Arnette Lamb's Hark! The Herald. Can't review this one as I've never really finished it or else I just can't remember it. This short story never grabbed me. Also the whole chastity belt thing squicked me out. I'll try it again some day since it's gotten good reviews.
Overall, this was the best anthology I've ever picked up. I've never liked another one since. I rate them opposite A Holiday of Love and so far nothing has come close. Sure I like a story here and there from various anthologies but nothing as magical as Daniel and the Angel and Change of Heart. Get this for Jill Barnett's short story alone and then see how you feel about the other three. You won't be disappointed!!
The first story is Jude Deveraux's story, Change of Heart. It's was my first Jude Deveraux book, and my introduction to the Taggert family. It's just a beautiful, heartwarming story. I'll agree with other reviewers that it wasn't long enough. This could have been a great book, but I'll settle for what we got. Within the confines of a short story, Jude Deveraux was able to create warm, rich characters that I love to revisit time and time again. She was even able to portray likable preteens, a rare feat since teenagers are usually portrayed as adorable, helpless children, or sullen, emotional headcases. Everyone has such great attitudes in this story, well, except for the broody, tortured hero (lol) but he gets over it fairly quickly and sees the light with his heroine, Randy. I don't know if it's because this was released during the holidays, but it was so nice to read. Jude Deveraux is kind of hit and miss with me but this one was a winner.
Second story is Judith McNaught's book, Miracles. I bought this anthology for this book alone and well, I was disappointed. This didn't seem like the Nicholas DuVille I knew from previous books. Judith McNaught does the same flip with Nicki's character as she had done with Stephen Westmoreland's character in Until You. Completely changed his personality. I didn't care for that. I liked the meddling, charismatic frenchman and unfortunately, in his own book, Nicki came across as a cruel boar. It uses one of my most hated plot contrivances. The hero, who knows better, seduces the lady he knows despite how she dresses, is really an innocent, virginal young girl that he should be a million miles away from. He just can't help himself and when he gets caught, he blames the girl for tricking him. Well, keep it in your pants next time, you dumba**. He's forced to marry her, dumps her in one of his countryhouses, then proceeds to ignore her and get on with his life. For a moment I thought Julianna would succeed with her plan to leave him and become an authoress but unfortunately Nicki comes to his senses and returns Julianna's love. Pity.
The third story is Jill Barnett's, Daniel and the Angel. *sigh* My favorite of the short stories and one of my favorite stories all around. This is just a beautiful, rich story, that makes you cry and laugh and smile. Even after all these years, the story of Daniel and his angel can still make me cry. The actual outline of the story doesn't matter. It only matters that the emotion that comes off the pages will blow you away. This story is better then chicken soup when your feelings are down. I would have loved for Jill to have made this into a full length book but that would have been just a scoop of ice cream next to an already perfect slice of cake. This short story really is perfection just the way it is.
The fourth story is Arnette Lamb's Hark! The Herald. Can't review this one as I've never really finished it or else I just can't remember it. This short story never grabbed me. Also the whole chastity belt thing squicked me out. I'll try it again some day since it's gotten good reviews.
Overall, this was the best anthology I've ever picked up. I've never liked another one since. I rate them opposite A Holiday of Love and so far nothing has come close. Sure I like a story here and there from various anthologies but nothing as magical as Daniel and the Angel and Change of Heart. Get this for Jill Barnett's short story alone and then see how you feel about the other three. You won't be disappointed!!
September 6, 2009
I've reread Change of Heart by Jude Devereaux today. I just finished it. I wish the story was longer and more develope. It's not to say that Jude didn't do a good job with this story. It was a little rushed, but a quick fun read.
The story starts off with us finding out that a 12 year old boy named Eli is offered a scholarship to go to Princeton. The boy has a best friend named Chelsea - she's six months older than he is. She's smart, but not as smart as him and she's rich. The two of them talk about him being accepted to go to Princeton, but Eli doesn't want to go. He's worried about his mother. She's a divorcee and although, she's a nurse, she doesn't make much money. His father makes more money than his mother, but he doesn't like paying child support and every chance, he gets, he tries to get out of paying child support and Randy - Eli's mother lets him get away with it. But, Eli wouldn't let his father get away with it. His father wasn't around to be a father to him, but he was going to give what was rightfully his and his mother's. It only took one phone call from Eli to his father, to put his daddy in line.
When Eli was ten years old, he met a man by the name of Franklin (Frank)Taggert. He has gone with his class to a business field trip. He's only reason for going on this trip, was because he wanted to steal some of the company's letter head paper. Him and Chelsea would steal letter head paper from companies, to help people. Their help, even have helped a lady get $400.00 dollars back from a telephone company and a boy from their school, teeth fix. The boy's daddy wasn't no good, but Eli and Chelsea hit his love and that's gambling. They sent him a fake dentist lottery, the catch was he had to pay to get his son and his sibling's mouth fix. In a way their help, worked and backfired. It caused Eli and Chelsea to reveal to the boy, who they were. They have found their own Robin Hood.
Randy loved reading romance books. Eli didn't want to see his mother being alone and that is what she would be, if he left, so he and Chelsea decided to find her a rich man. It's was Eli's idea to hook his mother up with his billionaire friend. Frank Taggert. They meet up with Mike Taggert (My baby from Sweet Liar) and his wife and talked to them about their plan. Afterwards, Randy received a letter about a job taking care of a man, who has been injured, who is staying in at his private cabin.
At first Randy didn't like Frank. He actually thought that she was a call girl. He didn't believe that she was his nurse. After clearing up that misunderstanding he offers her a job to be his cook-housekeeper. Between their cook-housekeeper discussion, they had a little misunderstanding. Randy hit Frank through the stomach. She knew that he couldn't stand eating TV dinners and that he loved her food. The little that he has tasted and they agreed that he was going to pay for her second's college eduction, up until Ph.D status. At bedtime, he asked her to marry him and she told him no.
Randy and Frank connect, he leaves, because he was scared. They haven't seen each other in two months. She's pregnant. He finds out that Eli is her son and the live happily ever after.
This story is short and cute. Some funny lines in here as well.
The story starts off with us finding out that a 12 year old boy named Eli is offered a scholarship to go to Princeton. The boy has a best friend named Chelsea - she's six months older than he is. She's smart, but not as smart as him and she's rich. The two of them talk about him being accepted to go to Princeton, but Eli doesn't want to go. He's worried about his mother. She's a divorcee and although, she's a nurse, she doesn't make much money. His father makes more money than his mother, but he doesn't like paying child support and every chance, he gets, he tries to get out of paying child support and Randy - Eli's mother lets him get away with it. But, Eli wouldn't let his father get away with it. His father wasn't around to be a father to him, but he was going to give what was rightfully his and his mother's. It only took one phone call from Eli to his father, to put his daddy in line.
When Eli was ten years old, he met a man by the name of Franklin (Frank)Taggert. He has gone with his class to a business field trip. He's only reason for going on this trip, was because he wanted to steal some of the company's letter head paper. Him and Chelsea would steal letter head paper from companies, to help people. Their help, even have helped a lady get $400.00 dollars back from a telephone company and a boy from their school, teeth fix. The boy's daddy wasn't no good, but Eli and Chelsea hit his love and that's gambling. They sent him a fake dentist lottery, the catch was he had to pay to get his son and his sibling's mouth fix. In a way their help, worked and backfired. It caused Eli and Chelsea to reveal to the boy, who they were. They have found their own Robin Hood.
Randy loved reading romance books. Eli didn't want to see his mother being alone and that is what she would be, if he left, so he and Chelsea decided to find her a rich man. It's was Eli's idea to hook his mother up with his billionaire friend. Frank Taggert. They meet up with Mike Taggert (My baby from Sweet Liar) and his wife and talked to them about their plan. Afterwards, Randy received a letter about a job taking care of a man, who has been injured, who is staying in at his private cabin.
At first Randy didn't like Frank. He actually thought that she was a call girl. He didn't believe that she was his nurse. After clearing up that misunderstanding he offers her a job to be his cook-housekeeper. Between their cook-housekeeper discussion, they had a little misunderstanding. Randy hit Frank through the stomach. She knew that he couldn't stand eating TV dinners and that he loved her food. The little that he has tasted and they agreed that he was going to pay for her second's college eduction, up until Ph.D status. At bedtime, he asked her to marry him and she told him no.
Randy and Frank connect, he leaves, because he was scared. They haven't seen each other in two months. She's pregnant. He finds out that Eli is her son and the live happily ever after.
This story is short and cute. Some funny lines in here as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2017
KUMSKI BOOK CLUB READING CHALLENGE 2017 - 14
(a collection of short stories)
Pročitala sam samo prve dvije priče (Miracles od Judith McNaught i Change of Heart od Jude Deveraux) jer ove druge dvije nisam mogla nigdje pronaći. A i iskreno, sasvim mi je dovoljno bilo pročitati ove dvije.
Znači, priče su tako blesave i besmislene. Recimo da su kraće verzije nekih knjiga koje sam već pročitala od McNaughtice i Deveraux.
Prva, Miracles je smještena u viktorijansku Englesku, a druga u suvremenu Ameriku i obje su izgleda dio nekog serijala, čiji su glavni likovi braća/najbolji prijatelji.
Što se tiče likova, svi su tipični kao i iz ostalih knjiga, muškarci tvrdoglavi, ne da im se reći, utuvit će si u glavu nešto što je naravno potpuno netočno, a žene su ponosne, ali naravno totalno padnju na takve muškarce. Zaplet isti kao i u svim drugim sličnim ljubićima.
Imala sam dojam kao da čitam bajke, posebno s ovom drugom, prezgodni "princ" na velikom crnom konju koji dolazi "spasiti" svoju ljubljenu. Sve kliše do klišea.
Ništa ne bih propustila ni da ih nisam pročitala.
(a collection of short stories)
Pročitala sam samo prve dvije priče (Miracles od Judith McNaught i Change of Heart od Jude Deveraux) jer ove druge dvije nisam mogla nigdje pronaći. A i iskreno, sasvim mi je dovoljno bilo pročitati ove dvije.
Znači, priče su tako blesave i besmislene. Recimo da su kraće verzije nekih knjiga koje sam već pročitala od McNaughtice i Deveraux.
Prva, Miracles je smještena u viktorijansku Englesku, a druga u suvremenu Ameriku i obje su izgleda dio nekog serijala, čiji su glavni likovi braća/najbolji prijatelji.
Što se tiče likova, svi su tipični kao i iz ostalih knjiga, muškarci tvrdoglavi, ne da im se reći, utuvit će si u glavu nešto što je naravno potpuno netočno, a žene su ponosne, ali naravno totalno padnju na takve muškarce. Zaplet isti kao i u svim drugim sličnim ljubićima.
Imala sam dojam kao da čitam bajke, posebno s ovom drugom, prezgodni "princ" na velikom crnom konju koji dolazi "spasiti" svoju ljubljenu. Sve kliše do klišea.
Ništa ne bih propustila ni da ih nisam pročitala.
Read
January 23, 2012Picked this up the other night because I needed something short- so far have only read Jude D.'s entry, Change of Heart, but I of course loved it. (I actually cant remember if I've ever read it before, which is odd because I thought i read all her earlier work!)
This is Frank Taggert's story, the older brother to Michael Taggert from Sweet Liar. He's hardnosed, self sufficient and fiercely independent enough to not really want a family and kids... until he meets a smarter than average young man by happenstance.
The young man has decided that Frank is perfect for his overly romantic and easily taken advantaged of mother- because she desperately needs someone as ferociously protective as Frank Taggert- so he sets up a scenario to get them alone so they can fall in love- which they do quite nicely.
Although brief this story reminded my why I used to love Deveraux- (whom btw went over the deep end there for awhile in RL O_O)- quirky characters who always find that love conquers all and get their HEA, no matter how bizarre the path and ending!
I have yet to read the rest in the antho, but I will add my thoughts on those as I read them! :D
4 out of 5 for Deveraux's entry.
**edited 10/18/11**
Ok- I've read McNaught's entry now: Miracles. Typical Judith Mcnaught. The heroine decides it's time to rid herself of the inconvenience of her virginity, as her mother is using it to try and better her position in society. Enter Nicki Duville, rake and rogue extraordinaire. He comprises her a bit, they get caught, and thinking the heroine is on her mother's side- heads straight for "the-big-misunderstanding-plot-device" waters.
Of course he does what society dictates- ie marries her- but then he promptly ditches her to run willy nilly all over London, having affairs left and right to rub it in her face. Of course when he actually is forced to spend time with her he sees the error of his ways and all is forgiven and they all live happily ever after. yep, that was about it. (See? Now you dont have to read it.)
Ok, I generally enjoy McNaught's emotional tour-de-forces, even if she uses the same formula over and over. Why? BECAUSE IT WORKS! But this one was far far too brief so there was no chance to build a rapport with the characters. So-2 stars. Why 2 and not 1? Because it was McNaught and I still found it unputtdownable. ::shrug::
**edited 1/21/12**
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett
Sweet, Sweet story. Lillian is an angel who can never do anything right- after busting up the Pearly Gates she's sent to earth- wingless- and falls right in front of the carriage of D L Stewart, one of the wealthiest men in America in the 1800's.
Self-made man, Daniel Lincoln Stewart, is intrigued by the beautiful, ethereal woman whom he's taken responsibility for, but wary of her do-gooder innocent heart. Lillian is just as wary of the man who is the antithesis of everything she holds dear and is sure she needs to get away from him-immediately. How can she stay with someone who thinks he can buy everything? But something about his lonely existence tugs at her sensitive heart.
Of course, the struggle truly begins when Lillian learns she has a way to get her wings, as well as her entrance into heaven, back.... teach Daniel to give something away- from the heart.
However impossible the task- she sets about to do so, unknowingly risking her own heart in the process.
Great little romance with empathetic characters and a good lesson to boot- 4.5 stars!
This is Frank Taggert's story, the older brother to Michael Taggert from Sweet Liar. He's hardnosed, self sufficient and fiercely independent enough to not really want a family and kids... until he meets a smarter than average young man by happenstance.
The young man has decided that Frank is perfect for his overly romantic and easily taken advantaged of mother- because she desperately needs someone as ferociously protective as Frank Taggert- so he sets up a scenario to get them alone so they can fall in love- which they do quite nicely.
Although brief this story reminded my why I used to love Deveraux- (whom btw went over the deep end there for awhile in RL O_O)- quirky characters who always find that love conquers all and get their HEA, no matter how bizarre the path and ending!
I have yet to read the rest in the antho, but I will add my thoughts on those as I read them! :D
4 out of 5 for Deveraux's entry.
**edited 10/18/11**
Ok- I've read McNaught's entry now: Miracles. Typical Judith Mcnaught. The heroine decides it's time to rid herself of the inconvenience of her virginity, as her mother is using it to try and better her position in society. Enter Nicki Duville, rake and rogue extraordinaire. He comprises her a bit, they get caught, and thinking the heroine is on her mother's side- heads straight for "the-big-misunderstanding-plot-device" waters.
Of course he does what society dictates- ie marries her- but then he promptly ditches her to run willy nilly all over London, having affairs left and right to rub it in her face. Of course when he actually is forced to spend time with her he sees the error of his ways and all is forgiven and they all live happily ever after. yep, that was about it. (See? Now you dont have to read it.)
Ok, I generally enjoy McNaught's emotional tour-de-forces, even if she uses the same formula over and over. Why? BECAUSE IT WORKS! But this one was far far too brief so there was no chance to build a rapport with the characters. So-2 stars. Why 2 and not 1? Because it was McNaught and I still found it unputtdownable. ::shrug::
**edited 1/21/12**
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett
Sweet, Sweet story. Lillian is an angel who can never do anything right- after busting up the Pearly Gates she's sent to earth- wingless- and falls right in front of the carriage of D L Stewart, one of the wealthiest men in America in the 1800's.
Self-made man, Daniel Lincoln Stewart, is intrigued by the beautiful, ethereal woman whom he's taken responsibility for, but wary of her do-gooder innocent heart. Lillian is just as wary of the man who is the antithesis of everything she holds dear and is sure she needs to get away from him-immediately. How can she stay with someone who thinks he can buy everything? But something about his lonely existence tugs at her sensitive heart.
Of course, the struggle truly begins when Lillian learns she has a way to get her wings, as well as her entrance into heaven, back.... teach Daniel to give something away- from the heart.
However impossible the task- she sets about to do so, unknowingly risking her own heart in the process.
Great little romance with empathetic characters and a good lesson to boot- 4.5 stars!
October 8, 2017
miracles
klasicna prica gdje su ciljevi majki bili dobro udati kceri za bogatog mladica, dobru priliku, raskosni balovi I neobicno ustogljeni maniri drustva. za razliku od romana koji obiluju raskosima prostora, prici nedostaju detalji koji bi citatelja uveli u doba I prostor radnje. sama ljubavna prica je jednako nevjerojatna I predvidiva kao I njen rasplet.
2/5
change of heart
zali boze tinte I papira na kojem je tiskana. nekako mi I lici na ljubavne romane koje I sama junakinja Randy cita. toliko me ova prica umorila I nazivcirala koliko je glupa da to nije za vjerovati. Randy se predstavlja kao neuhvatljiva zena a zapravo zudi za bilo kime jer se maltene baca u zagrljaj svakom muskarcu koji joj da malo paznje. toliko je jadna ta prica oko udaje, razlozi, nemam rijeci vise.... cisti promasaj
0/5
klasicna prica gdje su ciljevi majki bili dobro udati kceri za bogatog mladica, dobru priliku, raskosni balovi I neobicno ustogljeni maniri drustva. za razliku od romana koji obiluju raskosima prostora, prici nedostaju detalji koji bi citatelja uveli u doba I prostor radnje. sama ljubavna prica je jednako nevjerojatna I predvidiva kao I njen rasplet.
2/5
change of heart
zali boze tinte I papira na kojem je tiskana. nekako mi I lici na ljubavne romane koje I sama junakinja Randy cita. toliko me ova prica umorila I nazivcirala koliko je glupa da to nije za vjerovati. Randy se predstavlja kao neuhvatljiva zena a zapravo zudi za bilo kime jer se maltene baca u zagrljaj svakom muskarcu koji joj da malo paznje. toliko je jadna ta prica oko udaje, razlozi, nemam rijeci vise.... cisti promasaj
0/5
December 23, 2021
Change of heart - 5
I loved this a lot and thought that is was truly precious. I def want to read more from this author.
Miracles - 4
I love Judith McNaught and this would have been a five star if she had time to expand it all.
Daniel and the Angel - 3
Weird ngl but not the worst.
Hark! The Harold - 1.5
I honestly was really bored and skimmed a lot of it. Some of the dialogue was cute tho.
I loved this a lot and thought that is was truly precious. I def want to read more from this author.
Miracles - 4
I love Judith McNaught and this would have been a five star if she had time to expand it all.
Daniel and the Angel - 3
Weird ngl but not the worst.
Hark! The Harold - 1.5
I honestly was really bored and skimmed a lot of it. Some of the dialogue was cute tho.
December 8, 2017
The story makes light of rape. Do not read this trash book.
March 27, 2018
It was more of a 3.5 book. I liked only 3 of them and the fourth one I skipped.
Read
February 18, 2018I was going through my bookshelves and decided to purge this one because I never finished this and can't say I remember anything about it. I'm not even interested in saving it for later. :-/
April 23, 2021
4 stars for Jude deveraux's story.
December 19, 2022
Skimmed Jude Deveraux.
Judith McNaught-Miracles. If you've read the Westmoreland saga, you'll know Nicki DuVille. This is his story and is not much one. It's rushed and barely developed. Not even a love scene. Nicki deserves a full length book. ⭐⭐
Jill Barnett-Daniel and the Angel- a delight! Sweet without being cloying and well developed for a novella. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Arnette Lamb- Hark the Herald. This had a great setup- the Scottish king's herald is a woman doing her job is as difficult as anything is for a woman in medieval times. But the sorry was bogged down by a ton of politics. This wouldn't have bothered me much in a full length book but in a novella, it was a bit much. DNF.
Judith McNaught-Miracles. If you've read the Westmoreland saga, you'll know Nicki DuVille. This is his story and is not much one. It's rushed and barely developed. Not even a love scene. Nicki deserves a full length book. ⭐⭐
Jill Barnett-Daniel and the Angel- a delight! Sweet without being cloying and well developed for a novella. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Arnette Lamb- Hark the Herald. This had a great setup- the Scottish king's herald is a woman doing her job is as difficult as anything is for a woman in medieval times. But the sorry was bogged down by a ton of politics. This wouldn't have bothered me much in a full length book but in a novella, it was a bit much. DNF.
December 18, 2022
2.5⭐️
Change of heart
Skipped - Contemporary romance
Miracles
Bookish wallflower with a social climbing mother go to a masquerade. In order to avoid being forced to marry an old lecher, she decides to ruin herself. She accidentally gets drunk and asks the most eligible man, the Duke to ruin her. Mistaking her for a lightskirt he agrees- she is found running from his room and they are forced to marry.
After the wedding he dumps her in the country. He has many public affairs back in town. He’s gone for moths until he returns at Christmas with his parents to give his dying mother the impression that he has a happy marriage. His parents know it as a lie but hope forcing them together will make him see that he cares for her.
Good, but the casual mentions of putting his wife in her place dated the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Daniel and the Angel
Lillian is an angel who blunders every miracle she attempts… so when she accidentally destroys the pearly gates, it’s the last straw and she’s stripped of her wings. She ends up on the streets 1800’s New York City and gets hit by an oncoming carriage! Daniel is a self-made businessman and has everything money can buy, until he hits fallen angel, Lillie and finds that he can’t buy love and happiness!
Lillie is given the chance to regain her wings if she can make a miracle happen on earth and make Daniel believe… but in doing so she gives him her heart!
This was really cute! But the ending felt rushed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hark! The Harold
DNF- This medieval romance was so boring. The hero and heroine just talk about the English and Scottish Kings and making petty bets between the two of them… Absolutely nothing Christmasy and the romance at 40% was non existent. Life and the holidays are too short to force myself through this.
Change of heart
Skipped - Contemporary romance
Miracles
Bookish wallflower with a social climbing mother go to a masquerade. In order to avoid being forced to marry an old lecher, she decides to ruin herself. She accidentally gets drunk and asks the most eligible man, the Duke to ruin her. Mistaking her for a lightskirt he agrees- she is found running from his room and they are forced to marry.
After the wedding he dumps her in the country. He has many public affairs back in town. He’s gone for moths until he returns at Christmas with his parents to give his dying mother the impression that he has a happy marriage. His parents know it as a lie but hope forcing them together will make him see that he cares for her.
Good, but the casual mentions of putting his wife in her place dated the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Daniel and the Angel
Lillian is an angel who blunders every miracle she attempts… so when she accidentally destroys the pearly gates, it’s the last straw and she’s stripped of her wings. She ends up on the streets 1800’s New York City and gets hit by an oncoming carriage! Daniel is a self-made businessman and has everything money can buy, until he hits fallen angel, Lillie and finds that he can’t buy love and happiness!
Lillie is given the chance to regain her wings if she can make a miracle happen on earth and make Daniel believe… but in doing so she gives him her heart!
This was really cute! But the ending felt rushed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hark! The Harold
DNF- This medieval romance was so boring. The hero and heroine just talk about the English and Scottish Kings and making petty bets between the two of them… Absolutely nothing Christmasy and the romance at 40% was non existent. Life and the holidays are too short to force myself through this.
June 23, 2009
Okay - so everyone knows that I'm an absolute SUCKER for all Xmas collections - but really, a couple of these were so melodramatic I had to drop the book and groan in defeat. The best was Daniel and the Angel - I re-read it ALL THE TIME. It's about a scrooge of a mid-thirties man who falls in love with a literal fallen angel. But she's clumsy and heartfelt, which keeps it from heading into saccharine land. My second favorite was Change of Heart - about a precocious 12 year-old genius (I could be channeling my love of Artemis Fowl here) who endeavors to make his single mom hook up with his billionaire idol. It's fun, but obviously unbelievable, which is nice for Xmas. People will get a kick out of the genius kid and his female sidekick.
July 3, 2017
I only read the story by Jill Barnett because it was recommended to me by my Mom years ago… and of course I’m only now getting around to reading it. I should have read it sooner…
“Daniel and the Angel” by Jill Barnett – 5 stars. The most emotional, touching, and sentimental story I have ever read, whether a novella or a full length novel. Lillian is an angel who loses her wings because she can’t perform miracles and constantly causes disasters. She is found by Daniel, a very wealthy man whose only concern is, of course, money. To get back into Heaven Lillian has to teach Daniel to give from his heart.
“Daniel and the Angel” by Jill Barnett – 5 stars. The most emotional, touching, and sentimental story I have ever read, whether a novella or a full length novel. Lillian is an angel who loses her wings because she can’t perform miracles and constantly causes disasters. She is found by Daniel, a very wealthy man whose only concern is, of course, money. To get back into Heaven Lillian has to teach Daniel to give from his heart.
April 12, 2015
This rating is for Jude Deveraux's Change of Heart
A different storyline compared to the usual. A lovely little story about a twelve year old boy concerned for his sweet, sucker-for-a-sob-story, devourer-of-romance-books, devoted-to-son, loyal, affectionate, giving, selfless-when-it-comes-to son mother. How he goes about finding a husband to take care of her is what the story is all about.
There is also a tantalising connect with the Montgomery-Taggart family.
the friendship between Frank and Eli was touching and showed Eli's vulnerability and Frank's depth of love and affection very well.
Read it multiple times. A keeper
A different storyline compared to the usual. A lovely little story about a twelve year old boy concerned for his sweet, sucker-for-a-sob-story, devourer-of-romance-books, devoted-to-son, loyal, affectionate, giving, selfless-when-it-comes-to son mother. How he goes about finding a husband to take care of her is what the story is all about.
There is also a tantalising connect with the Montgomery-Taggart family.
the friendship between Frank and Eli was touching and showed Eli's vulnerability and Frank's depth of love and affection very well.
Read it multiple times. A keeper
July 17, 2012
I picked up this anthology mainly to read the last Westmoreland story by Judith McNaught, Miracles. Although it was way too short I was glad that Nicki finally got his HEA with Julianna, Sheridan's charge from Until You.
I also read the Jude Deveraux Change of Heart. Again a very sweet story but way too short to properly get the hero to fall in love in a realistic way. Oh well, these are Christmas romance stories so I guess we can shelve the realism for a feel good story and a HEA.
I also read the Jude Deveraux Change of Heart. Again a very sweet story but way too short to properly get the hero to fall in love in a realistic way. Oh well, these are Christmas romance stories so I guess we can shelve the realism for a feel good story and a HEA.
September 24, 2012
This review is based only on Nicki and Julianna story by Judith McNaught.
It was too short! I think both Nicki and Julianna deserved much better than that. Actually, the idea was pretty interesting and had so much to explore. If only Ms. McNaught decided to make a full novel out of that instead of novella. A bit disappointed.
It was too short! I think both Nicki and Julianna deserved much better than that. Actually, the idea was pretty interesting and had so much to explore. If only Ms. McNaught decided to make a full novel out of that instead of novella. A bit disappointed.
May 20, 2014
too bad the stories were too short.. ^.^
June 19, 2009
Jude Deveraux - Change of Heart = 4 stars
Judith McNaught - Miracles = 2 stars
Judith McNaught - Miracles = 2 stars
March 9, 2022
A Holiday of Love
Miracles – Judith McNaught
I have a collection of Judith McNaught's books, bought them, read them and re-read them. Why? Because the first novel, Perfect, was so perfect that I started to look for her books and buy every one of them. And that is how I came upon 'A Holiday of Love'.
Well, I did laugh out loud at McNaught's description of the Masquerade Ball and so-called Polite Society at their worst. Juliana's plight triggered feelings of empathy, as her determined mother spends the last penny of her small inheritance buying the right wardrobe for her daughter so Julianna can secure a rich husband and the mother a position in society. I hated the woman so fiercely that I wanted to strangle her.
Talking of Nicolas DuVille, I couldn't understand why someone who has figured as a close contender in Judith McNaught's Westmoreland series, almost stealing the heroines' hearts with his "charme naturel", didn't have a satisfactory role in his story!
I also expected Julianna to show some spunk when she got the opportunity and take DuVille for a spin; however, it ended all too quickly and left me dissatisfied.
Change of Heart - Jude Deveraux
A bit confusing at the beginning as the POV keeps changing, and we wonder who the protagonist is. And when we finally meet Randy, we wonder if she's male or female (could have stuck to Miranda) and if she has enough pluck to carry her character through. Don't blame us for feeling that way, as she is projected as "someone in need of protection." On the other hand, Eli and Chelsea keep the story afloat with their brilliant methods of rendering justice.
Frank Taggert is the typical Mills & Boon billionaire who falls for the lowly maiden in dire straits…nothing new there; even the set-up was a bit farfetched. Nonetheless, I loved the finale where Frank, dressed in black, rides a black stallion right to Randy's front porch. Just imagining that made me smile.
Daniel and the Angel – Jill Barnett
When I started on this story, I wasn't in the best of humour as I'd just been disappointed by Judith McNaught and didn't know what to expect of Jill Barnett. After the first few pages, I began to wonder if I was reading a spiritual book as I got an eyeful of heaven in all its glory and a detailed description of what goes on with the angels and St Peter and Jacob's ladder, to name a few. And then I meet Lilli, a curious little angel who is always experimenting and creating so much chaos that St Peter decides to throw her down to earth minus the wings and halo.
The story gains momentum when DL Stewart's carriage almost runs Lilli down, and DL takes her home to recuperate. From the first dialogue, Lilli and Daniel reveal their different worlds – one is the Money Man and the other an Angel in the true sense of the word.
Barnett draws us effortlessly into the story without excessive telling and more of showing, turning us so emotional that we are yearning for Lilli and Daniel to reunite. Their intense lovemaking is described so poetically that it passes through as an integral part of the story.
I must say Barnett has succeeded where Judith McNaught failed. She created a unique setting with lifelike characters, a romantic twist with high stakes and a satisfactory ending.
HARK! THE HERALD – Arnette Lamb
My mother once told me, "if you haven't anything good to say, don't say anything at all". But here, I need to say something, Arnette Lamb's "signature style" did nothing for me.
Miracles – Judith McNaught
I have a collection of Judith McNaught's books, bought them, read them and re-read them. Why? Because the first novel, Perfect, was so perfect that I started to look for her books and buy every one of them. And that is how I came upon 'A Holiday of Love'.
Well, I did laugh out loud at McNaught's description of the Masquerade Ball and so-called Polite Society at their worst. Juliana's plight triggered feelings of empathy, as her determined mother spends the last penny of her small inheritance buying the right wardrobe for her daughter so Julianna can secure a rich husband and the mother a position in society. I hated the woman so fiercely that I wanted to strangle her.
Talking of Nicolas DuVille, I couldn't understand why someone who has figured as a close contender in Judith McNaught's Westmoreland series, almost stealing the heroines' hearts with his "charme naturel", didn't have a satisfactory role in his story!
I also expected Julianna to show some spunk when she got the opportunity and take DuVille for a spin; however, it ended all too quickly and left me dissatisfied.
Change of Heart - Jude Deveraux
A bit confusing at the beginning as the POV keeps changing, and we wonder who the protagonist is. And when we finally meet Randy, we wonder if she's male or female (could have stuck to Miranda) and if she has enough pluck to carry her character through. Don't blame us for feeling that way, as she is projected as "someone in need of protection." On the other hand, Eli and Chelsea keep the story afloat with their brilliant methods of rendering justice.
Frank Taggert is the typical Mills & Boon billionaire who falls for the lowly maiden in dire straits…nothing new there; even the set-up was a bit farfetched. Nonetheless, I loved the finale where Frank, dressed in black, rides a black stallion right to Randy's front porch. Just imagining that made me smile.
Daniel and the Angel – Jill Barnett
When I started on this story, I wasn't in the best of humour as I'd just been disappointed by Judith McNaught and didn't know what to expect of Jill Barnett. After the first few pages, I began to wonder if I was reading a spiritual book as I got an eyeful of heaven in all its glory and a detailed description of what goes on with the angels and St Peter and Jacob's ladder, to name a few. And then I meet Lilli, a curious little angel who is always experimenting and creating so much chaos that St Peter decides to throw her down to earth minus the wings and halo.
The story gains momentum when DL Stewart's carriage almost runs Lilli down, and DL takes her home to recuperate. From the first dialogue, Lilli and Daniel reveal their different worlds – one is the Money Man and the other an Angel in the true sense of the word.
Barnett draws us effortlessly into the story without excessive telling and more of showing, turning us so emotional that we are yearning for Lilli and Daniel to reunite. Their intense lovemaking is described so poetically that it passes through as an integral part of the story.
I must say Barnett has succeeded where Judith McNaught failed. She created a unique setting with lifelike characters, a romantic twist with high stakes and a satisfactory ending.
HARK! THE HERALD – Arnette Lamb
My mother once told me, "if you haven't anything good to say, don't say anything at all". But here, I need to say something, Arnette Lamb's "signature style" did nothing for me.
December 7, 2023
I only really loved one of the 4 stories but it’s a delightful collection from 1994, and is definitely of a time in the romance genre…
Jude Deveraux - Change of Heart
⭐️⭐️💫 cute idea of a 12yo boy (Eli) and his girl best friend (Chelsea) who have christened themselves as Robin and Marian Les Juenes conduct regular hijinks to put relational wrongs right; started as a way to get deadbeat dads (like Eli’s) to pay up. This time, he’s trying to play matchmaker between his mom (Randy) and a billionaire (Frank) so he can go to the college he’s gotten into as a child prodigy. published in 1994, and it shows… the spice is kind of dubious consent for the most part… it’s grumpy-sunshine where he falls first, and that part was believable for sure but the part where she falls for him enough to go to bed unprotected with him was where the story kinda lost me… overall cute idea, the execution was not my favorite
Judith McNaught - Miracles
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ historical bluestocking/rake; super tropey but wonderful in all the romance reasons ways. Julianna just wants to be left in peace to write novels and thought she had that life available when her grandmother passed and left her enough to live modestly and write to her hearts content… her mother had other ideas and used her inheritance instead for a season in London. Cue “Nikki” Duville who stumbles upon a weepy inebriated Julianna in the gardens of a party, where he thinks she’s a courtsan and brings her back to his room where she eventually flees out of fear and naïveté. Forced marriage, eventual spilling of all the secrets and HEA
Jill Barnett - Daniel and the Angel
⭐️⭐️ strange twist on it’s a Wonderful Life but she ends up staying down in the end… Daniel is the Scroogiest character down to even his descriptions being money based, Lilli is a fallen angel (after she accidentally blows up the pearly gates, St Peter sends her down to earth) whose mission it is to convince Daniel to do something for someone else out of the good of his heart. Long story short, he falls for her and does something out of love for her causing her to bloop back to heaven — but wait! All he has to do is whistle and she falls back down…and they live HEA complete with many children all named for her fav angels in heaven
Arnette Lamb - Hark! The Herald
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Solid Scottish historical romance novella. Elizabeth is herald for Robert Bruce, king of Scotland and is at the same keep as Randolph MacQueen who’s there for secret business between clans. Through a series of romance reasons they spend much time together as Elizabeth is waiting for an answer to return to Bruce and end up falling in love. The language this one was written in was hard to follow sometimes as she made it seem older thru more formal uses of the words. It took me a little longer to get thru and seemed a bit unnecessary. But it had lots of the qualities of old school swoony historicals was was fun too
Jude Deveraux - Change of Heart
⭐️⭐️💫 cute idea of a 12yo boy (Eli) and his girl best friend (Chelsea) who have christened themselves as Robin and Marian Les Juenes conduct regular hijinks to put relational wrongs right; started as a way to get deadbeat dads (like Eli’s) to pay up. This time, he’s trying to play matchmaker between his mom (Randy) and a billionaire (Frank) so he can go to the college he’s gotten into as a child prodigy. published in 1994, and it shows… the spice is kind of dubious consent for the most part… it’s grumpy-sunshine where he falls first, and that part was believable for sure but the part where she falls for him enough to go to bed unprotected with him was where the story kinda lost me… overall cute idea, the execution was not my favorite
Judith McNaught - Miracles
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ historical bluestocking/rake; super tropey but wonderful in all the romance reasons ways. Julianna just wants to be left in peace to write novels and thought she had that life available when her grandmother passed and left her enough to live modestly and write to her hearts content… her mother had other ideas and used her inheritance instead for a season in London. Cue “Nikki” Duville who stumbles upon a weepy inebriated Julianna in the gardens of a party, where he thinks she’s a courtsan and brings her back to his room where she eventually flees out of fear and naïveté. Forced marriage, eventual spilling of all the secrets and HEA
Jill Barnett - Daniel and the Angel
⭐️⭐️ strange twist on it’s a Wonderful Life but she ends up staying down in the end… Daniel is the Scroogiest character down to even his descriptions being money based, Lilli is a fallen angel (after she accidentally blows up the pearly gates, St Peter sends her down to earth) whose mission it is to convince Daniel to do something for someone else out of the good of his heart. Long story short, he falls for her and does something out of love for her causing her to bloop back to heaven — but wait! All he has to do is whistle and she falls back down…and they live HEA complete with many children all named for her fav angels in heaven
Arnette Lamb - Hark! The Herald
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Solid Scottish historical romance novella. Elizabeth is herald for Robert Bruce, king of Scotland and is at the same keep as Randolph MacQueen who’s there for secret business between clans. Through a series of romance reasons they spend much time together as Elizabeth is waiting for an answer to return to Bruce and end up falling in love. The language this one was written in was hard to follow sometimes as she made it seem older thru more formal uses of the words. It took me a little longer to get thru and seemed a bit unnecessary. But it had lots of the qualities of old school swoony historicals was was fun too
July 3, 2022
Actually, this is four short stories, novellas ? in one cover. Unusually, all four contributions are by authors I read.
Change of Heart by Jude Deveraux: I really liked this one. The very bright twelve-year-olds were probably the reason. Together they decide to marry off Eli's mother so that Eli can go off to college (yes, at age 12) without worrying about her. The problem pops up when he decides he wants to marry her to a friend, who happens to be a billionaire. The ingenious way the two kids go about it is well worth the read.
Miracles by Judith McNaught: Unfortunately for me, I had read all of Ms. McNaught's books where Nicki DuVille is featured as a secondary character, and I had grown to expect much more of him than this. Juliana Skeffington is also in a few of the books. I felt both characters were worthy of a much more involved story than this turned out to be.
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett: What a concept! A fallen angel, a goof-up in heaven who gets sent to earth as punishment. Although an enjoyable read, I felt it fell short in some ways and didn't make logical sense in others. I really do not expect a fallen angel to have carnal leanings in such a short amount of time.
Hark! The Herald by Arnette Lamb: Taking place in 1308, not a time I enjoy reading about, women have a much harder time of it. too hard for me to enjoy in any way. A female King's Herald was a bit much for me to take. Randolph was a bit too macho. Everything gets wrapped up too fast. This one was my least favorite.
Change of Heart by Jude Deveraux: I really liked this one. The very bright twelve-year-olds were probably the reason. Together they decide to marry off Eli's mother so that Eli can go off to college (yes, at age 12) without worrying about her. The problem pops up when he decides he wants to marry her to a friend, who happens to be a billionaire. The ingenious way the two kids go about it is well worth the read.
Miracles by Judith McNaught: Unfortunately for me, I had read all of Ms. McNaught's books where Nicki DuVille is featured as a secondary character, and I had grown to expect much more of him than this. Juliana Skeffington is also in a few of the books. I felt both characters were worthy of a much more involved story than this turned out to be.
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett: What a concept! A fallen angel, a goof-up in heaven who gets sent to earth as punishment. Although an enjoyable read, I felt it fell short in some ways and didn't make logical sense in others. I really do not expect a fallen angel to have carnal leanings in such a short amount of time.
Hark! The Herald by Arnette Lamb: Taking place in 1308, not a time I enjoy reading about, women have a much harder time of it. too hard for me to enjoy in any way. A female King's Herald was a bit much for me to take. Randolph was a bit too macho. Everything gets wrapped up too fast. This one was my least favorite.
December 31, 2022
Change of Heart by Jude Devereaux ⭐⭐
I loved the FMC kid being so smart and meddling with his BF Chelsea, being Robin & Marian Les Jeunes to right wrongs. And the fact he knew the MMC for 2 years. It gives context. But then the way the couple meet and fall for each other was so rush. Barely no description of the sex scene. And that the FMC have to get married and that she falls for anybody: toxic. Shows its time."
Miracles by Judith McNaught ⭐⭐
So far the big names of this anthology are disappointing. This 1 even more than the first one. It's too short. The heroes have barely time to meet, get closer/intimate & bang they get married & then he ignores her most of the book. I haven't read the other books of this series so I don't have his background but I'm sure if I did I would be even more frustrated by this expeditious story."
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My favorite novella so far. It felt very refreshing with the story starting in Heaven with a clumsy angel for FMC. The MMC reminded me of Joanna Shupe's Gilded Age hero Preston Clarke who always tried to gain more money/power. The hero only value money until Lillly bombed up in his life and warmed his heart with her laught and sweetness, and baby animals.
DNF the last novella, Hark! The Herald by Arnette Lamb, (maybe will try it next christmas).
I loved the FMC kid being so smart and meddling with his BF Chelsea, being Robin & Marian Les Jeunes to right wrongs. And the fact he knew the MMC for 2 years. It gives context. But then the way the couple meet and fall for each other was so rush. Barely no description of the sex scene. And that the FMC have to get married and that she falls for anybody: toxic. Shows its time."
Miracles by Judith McNaught ⭐⭐
So far the big names of this anthology are disappointing. This 1 even more than the first one. It's too short. The heroes have barely time to meet, get closer/intimate & bang they get married & then he ignores her most of the book. I haven't read the other books of this series so I don't have his background but I'm sure if I did I would be even more frustrated by this expeditious story."
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett ⭐⭐⭐⭐
My favorite novella so far. It felt very refreshing with the story starting in Heaven with a clumsy angel for FMC. The MMC reminded me of Joanna Shupe's Gilded Age hero Preston Clarke who always tried to gain more money/power. The hero only value money until Lillly bombed up in his life and warmed his heart with her laught and sweetness, and baby animals.
DNF the last novella, Hark! The Herald by Arnette Lamb, (maybe will try it next christmas).
December 25, 2021
The cross over event we have all been waiting for!!!!! Overall a pretty good collection of short stories by these amazing authors. I saved this book particularly for Christmas because I wanted a fun seasonal read. I actually found the last two stories to be better than the first. Deveraux and Mcnaught’s stories felt very rushed in comparison to the Lamb and Barnett’s and there was a lack of Christmas theme in theirs. With lamb and Barnett Christmas was involved in the plot and not just used as a time frame. My favorite story in the book was “Daniel and the Angel” by Jill Barnett in which a clumsy Angel gets kicked out of heaven and sent into 1800s New York where she is tasked with showing a wealthy businessman the true meaning of Christmas. “Hark! The Herald” by Arnette lamb was also very good. Set in medieval England where a Scottish Highlander has a massive crush on the king of Scotland’s female herald. Jude gave us “Change of Heart”, where a matchmaker son sets his mom up with his hero, a billionaire businessman. And McNaught gave us “Miracles”a regency era story where a independent woman offers a debaucherous duke the opportunity to ruin her reputation. A lot of good references in that one. They were cute and a fun read overall can’t complain. 10/10
December 11, 2022
Change of Heart by Jude Deveraux is about a single mother with a 12-year-old genius of a son and a grumpy billionaire in need of help. This checks all the boxes of my perfect romance, so I'm giving it a .4.5/5.
Side note: Why haven't I read Deveraux's books before? (excl. the Christmas series)??
Miracles by Judith McNaught is about Julianna, a young debutante and Nicholas DuVille, who previously appeared in the Westmoreland series. A short and standard story. 3/5
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett is about a billionaire and a fallen angel (literally) in the late 1800s(?) New York setting. I always love a story when the man becomes better after he meets the girl. 4/5.
Hark! The Herald by Arnette Lamb is a historical fiction in the background of 1300s England. It has Robert the Bruce, Edward Plantagenet, etc, but I can't really get into this story. 2/5
Side note: Why haven't I read Deveraux's books before? (excl. the Christmas series)??
Miracles by Judith McNaught is about Julianna, a young debutante and Nicholas DuVille, who previously appeared in the Westmoreland series. A short and standard story. 3/5
Daniel and the Angel by Jill Barnett is about a billionaire and a fallen angel (literally) in the late 1800s(?) New York setting. I always love a story when the man becomes better after he meets the girl. 4/5.
Hark! The Herald by Arnette Lamb is a historical fiction in the background of 1300s England. It has Robert the Bruce, Edward Plantagenet, etc, but I can't really get into this story. 2/5
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