Lady Amelia Pembroke, an almost thirty year old spinster,
has been running the household since her mother died.
She's extremely organised and practical; she surmised
that it's time she looked for a husband, should her
brother the Duke marry because she would be left out in
the cold. Upon hearing that the traditional Christmas Eve
ball, traditionally held at Viscount Sheffield's estate
will be cancelled, she takes upon herself to straighten
things out because that's what she does.
Lord Benedict St. John, Viscount of Sheffield, is quite
unprepared for the forward Amelia when she announces
herself at his door, ready to discuss a new venue for the
Yuletide celebrations. He is soon swept along in the
tidal wave that is Amelia, and although he relishes his
bachelorhood, he is soon starting to reconsider what he
thought was a perfect life.
THE VISCOUNT'S CHRISTMAS TEMPTATION is a short story, a
prequel to the upcoming Dukes of War series, and if
this
is any indication, the books will not come quickly
enough. It's positively brilliant! The story breezes
along, it's beautifully written, clever and witty; before
you know it, you've reached the end and you are left
begging for more! Benedict is intriguing and Amelia is
one of the most delightful characters ever written: she's
terrifically unusual, fascinating; completely
irresistible! I loved how Benedict and Amelia played
against each other: both responsible yet up for
challenges, and the chemistry is a joy to behold.
THE VISCOUNT'S CHRISTMAS TEMPTATION is also highly
original; I've never come across the types of premise nor
characters featured here. Ms. Ridley is so talented that I
could picture every little gesture, every smile;
everything. And how could I not love an author who
remembers the use of "shan't", as it should. I cannot find
fault with anything: THE VISCOUNT'S CHRISTMAS TEMPTATION
is perfectly enchanting from the first word until the
loveliest, most romantic ending!
Certain individuals might consider Lady Amelia Pembroke a managing sort of female, but truly, most people would be lost without her help. Why, the latest on-dit is that rakish Viscount Sheffield is canceling the fête of the year because he hasn't time for silly soirees. He doesn't need time—he needs her! When a flash of lightning destroys the venue for his family's annual Christmas ball, Lord Benedict Sheffield intends to enjoy a relaxing holiday for once. But after twelve days of beguiling Lady Amelia's guerrilla tactics, he's up to his cravat with tinsel . . . and tumbling head over heels in love.