3.42 AVERAGE


I think this one was not developed enough for me. As far as the caper or central conceit, I would have liked to see a full-length novel on it. And I would have loved it if the heroine could join him in espionage!!! Lost opportunity for a Tessa Dare heroine to do something really adventurous.

I must say though, the ready by Mary Jane Wells is SO MUCH BETTER than the books narrated by Carmen Rose. Sorry, Carmen, but you read every line with the same inflection and it’s killing me.

This was kinda dumb but oh, it made my heart happy

Good story... Just not enough of a plot or any character development. Doesn't compare to Tessa Dare's actual books, that's for sure. And, while not my least favorite short story I've ever read - definitely not a favorite either.

2.75 stars
hopeful lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A wonderful holiday novella

4.5 stars rounded up.
Lovely historical holiday novella. Set in Tessa Dare’s spindle cove world, this one is centered on Violet and her childhood crush/boy next door… he comes into the ball she’s at in the most dramatic of near death fashion and collapses at her feet… the backstory and the sweeping love confession were lovely. It’s a quick read and a sweet addition to the SC series
emotional hopeful mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

The thing about novellas is that the author usually doesn't have the time to convey every single emotional or bring extreme depth to the characters. Often times, the story is rather rushed.

I thought this story given it's only about 100 pages works in that the rush-ness adds to the story. When "the stranger" arrives all of his actions are rushed for a particular reason. So when everything happens rather quickly you understand why and you are caught up in the emotions and the speed in which everything is happening. The majority of the events take place in just a few hours so speed is of the essence.

But really though, who doesn't love a pistol toting lady?

So sweet! Amazing groveling! Kinda thrown together but easy to follow and enjoy