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!