Love this couple. I think that Adam begins the story with a misconstrued reputation. When you see him in this book, you see a mischievous but caring and honest man. He respects women and the boundaries society has in place. He loves his grandmother and it shows in all he does in this book. That woman is a sly fox.

Sarah and Adam show us that opposites attract. I enjoyed the banter between them and watching Sarah’s views change of Adam as she sees who he is beyond what is known or thought is known about him. She sees him care for his grandmother, Sees him protect her sister and show her and others respect. He does get her goat but I think that is to see her reaction. These two are fun to watch dance around each other but also interact. They learn about each other as Adam is at Sarah’s due to his grandma. Their attraction is palpable, personalities fun and they both have a healthy respect for one another. They grow and learn who the other is while falling in love.

The story is fun and full of good banter and fun. A Christmas romance where the characters are likeable but the main characters you thoroughly enjoy. It’s fast paced and entertaining.

Disillusioned early on about rakes, Sarah St. John has always given Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Arque, the cold shoulder. When he shows up unexpectedly at her home and is forced to spend Christmas, the complicated feelings she's always had, start to get even more complicated.
Adam would do anything for his grandmother; even spend a week celebrating Christmas at the St. John residency. Thinking to entertain himself challenging Sarah, he soon finds it backfiring on him, as he's the one left feeling outgunned.
 
The last installment in the Maiden Lane series, you could easily pick this up as a standalone; you would miss an early glimpse of d'Arque in a previous book but there is really no connection to the series overall.
 
Sarah St. John should have been utterly forgettable.
 
This is a novella slightly under 100pgs and I'm here to tell you that you're going to end up feeling cheated. The weather is cold, there is a search for some holly and an ending Christmas Eve ball but I did think this lacked a solid holiday read feel. However, this doesn't matter because the reason for the season is d'Arque. Nothing else. The absolute caring way he treats his grandmother was shown brilliantly and provided some depth of character. His sheer sexiness though, steals the show. He's able to keep himself rather emotionally contained, except when he gets around Sarah and then we get to see cracks form in the façade; I live for the cracks. He's sexy, smooth, sparking, and a bit unraveling when he's with her and I loved every second of it.
 
Sarah St. John loathed rakes.
 
Sarah was the perfect combination of stiff and melting when she was around d'Arque. Her past hurt helps us understand why she tries to keep d'Arque at a distance but it also ends up feeling rushed and forced as the emotional pain isn't given enough room to develop with the small page count. I loved how she stepped up to d'Arque's challenging but also how she softened to his touch. Her family round out the secondary characters and I missed seeing more interactions with her sisters as I think this would have filled out her character even more.
 
"Careful, sweetheart," he rasped in her ear, his breath brushing her neck, and it was strange because she could've sworn there was real concern in his voice. "you nearly fell at my feet just then."
 
There's some mini trials and tribulations going on in this novella but the core of the story and why you're going to want to read it, is the interaction between Sarah and d'Arque. They are the couple who give you shivers up and down your spine. They snap, spark, crash, and melt together in a way that make you want to reread their story as soon as you finish. I will spend more time of my life than is healthy wishing the author had chosen to write a full length novel for them. There's a point where d'Arque says:
"I want you." He fought to keep his voice level. Civilized. "In every way."
The way this is dragged out of him had me thinking of Sebastian St. Vincent. In a full novel, I think d'Arque would have seriously challenged St. Vincent in the eyes of many romance readers for favorite rake.
 
Hoyt is very good at small impactful emotions and outside the main couple's relationship, there is a scene where Sarah's sister starts to blame herself for a man's actions and after her family support, their mother says the line: "I shall have to warn my friends about him.”. This may be a case of what's in the news timing but this little scene hit me in the feels. The women's network; created out of necessity, caring, and bravery. In the past and present, sometimes we women have been the only recourse and this added scene is again one of the numerous reasons I read romance, it understands, tells, and celebrates us women.
 
Look, issues get brought up and moved on from quickly (d'Arque's parents' death) and the ending is so outrageously abrupt. Seriously, Hoyt gives us one of my favorite proposal lines ever and then slammed me into a "the end" wall. I loved what Hoyt gave me of d'Arque almost as much as I hated how little she gave me of d'Arque. At the end of the day though, if you're looking for a quick escape, d'Arque won't disappoint.
 
He broke their kiss and laid his forehead against hers. "Make me stop."
"I can't," she whispered.
"Then we're doomed," he said, his voice husky and low. "For I'm unable to stop myself. I want you. Day and night and all the time in between. I want you."

4.5 Stars

When Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Arque's carriage breaks down on a cold and snowy night, he seeks shelter at a nearby manor house. Upon arrival he discovers the only woman who looks at him with disdain... Sarah St. John.

Sarah St. John despises rakes. She can't abide by the outrageous flirting and how every sentence is composed of constant sexual innuendo. And Adam is a rake through and through... so why can't she stop thinking about him... especially in a house filled with appropriate suitors?

This was such a fantastic novella. Sarah makes no apologies in her annoyance at Adam and his reputation. Her distrust of rakes goes far deeper than a mere dislike and she wants nothing to do with the charming man who makes her forget what she wants in life. Adam was once a rake, but has mellowed in recent years, while still not interested in marriage and babies... he is very interested in Sarah herself.

While at a house party, the opportunity for a secret affection is far greater than while out in society...

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.

Novella's are always a little difficult to rate since I tend to prefer my romance to be a bit more fleshed out. Having said that, this did a great job of making the romance believable. A great ending to a fantastic series.

Yes, I just finished reading yet another novella by Elizabeth Hoyt and I am happy to say that I very much enjoyed this book.

Once Upon a Christmas Eve is book 12.6 in the Maiden Lane series. It is just about 92 pages so it is a very quick read and I have to tell you it is so very well done. Doesn't feel rushed at all and I have loved every minute of this romantic and steamy novella.

I give this 4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

I believe this is the final book of the Maiden Lane series, which makes me very sad. Luckily, I have not read all the books yet so I still have a few to tide me over until Elizabeth Hoyt gives us another stellar series to moon over.

Because I haven't read the entire series yet, I am unsure if these characters have been previously introduced. Our hero is Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Arque. I just love his title! Adam is a notorious rake that just loves using flattery to make females fall at his feet and annoy their jealous husbands to no end. When a winter storm and carriage accident strands Adam and his beloved grandmother, Lady Whimple, Adam finds himself stranded in the family home of the one woman who isn't phased by his charm - Miss Sarah St. John.
After being burned in the past, Sarah does not like rogues. So she could not help getting a little sassy with Adam when his charm made an appearance. But Sarah quickly realizes that Adam may be using that rakish demeanor as a mask, and her feelings start to soften toward him.

Due to the length of the novella, the romance must move along at a very fast pace... but it didn't bother me. I liked both Adam and Sarah, and I was happy to see them get past their hangups and come together. I also liked the setting of the house party over Christmas, but the theme wasn't overly "merry" to the point where I felt the holidays threw up all over the page.

Overall this was a nice little holiday read that fit nicely into the season and acts as a little taster for those who are having a little trouble letting this series go.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Forever Romance.

Once Upon a Christmas Eve is a Christmas-themed novella in Elizabeth Hoyt’s 5-star Maiden Lane series. Get ready for rogues, holly, and heart.

Adam Rutledge, Lord D’Arque, is a rogue, plain and simple. When his carriage breaks down with his ill grand-mere inside, he’s desperate for shelter. It leads him to the home of Godric St. John and his sister, Sarah. The sister who absolutely despises him.

I do so enjoy good banter and Adam and Sarah deliver.

The St. John household is full for the holidays and Sarah finds that she wants a husband and a family. Adam’s untimely presence disturbs her peace of mind, especially when it seems that the connection between them burns bright.

To say these two get off on the wrong foot… Adam’s constant flirting just rubs Sarah the wrong way. He’s just too charming for his own good. But close proximity is uncovering things Sarah just didn’t expect.

The character development was so well-done in such a compact story…I’m blown away by it. This novella simply felt like a full-length title, and I just didn’t want to put it down or for it to end. It’s a perfect little holiday novella.

I fell in love with this series a long time ago, and this is the perfect send-off. Historical readers don't want to miss this one.

5 stars!

Elizabeth Hoyt is readily recognized as a must-read historical romance author. If you are new to her or perhaps aren't sure if you'd like historical romance, this breezy, surprisingly sweet (and HOT) novella is a pretty fabulous introduction to Hoyt's writing.

The premise is simple: Adam, the Viscount d'Arque, hates Christmas. All of that forced cheer and phony emotional pretension disgusts him. There is another, deeper reason behind his dislike, and it gives some depth to him. His opposite, in nearly every way, is Lady Sarah, a young woman who enjoys the spirit of Christmas and despises rogues like Adam. When the two are forced to spend the holidays together, Things Happen.

Hoyt puts you in the spirit with her teasing the romance between these two. Their banter is purposeful and witty, and you can see how each starts to rethink their preconceived notions of the other. Even with its slight length, Hoyt includes a couple of pretty spicy sexy times.

Veteran fans or new-to-her readers of Elizabeth Hoyt will enjoy this toasty Christmas novella.

Ok, this is a novella so people who read this novella probably have read other things by the author. I have not but I did like it and I liked the characters. Warning: language is a bit strong (for those Regency readers - although this book seemed like it took place during Georgian times - who like their Regencies "sweet"). It was fine for what it was - a nice holiday one-off.

Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Elizabeth Hoyt was a pleasant Christmas novella, although there were parts that felt a bit underdeveloped. It’s about Adam Rutledge, a viscount, who isn’t all that into Christmas. But his grandmother, whom he cares very much about, enjoys the holiday. On their way to the country, the carriage breaks down and Adam and his grandmother are forced to take refuge at the home of Sarah St. John’s family. Sarah is not a fan of rakes, and does not give them the time of day. So she’s not a fan of Adam, a known rake. But, now that they are forced to spend some time together, of course they fall for each other.

I really did like both Sarah and Adam. While I think there were parts of this novella that were underdeveloped, character development of the two leads didn’t suffer much from the short length of this novella. I loved seeing how devoted Adam was to his grandmother, and I adored seeing Sarah not give Adam an inch. Although I struggled a bit with their romance (see below), I did like these two together.

Another thing I really loved about Once Upon a Christmas Eve was the fairytale told throughout the book at the beginning of each chapter. This is something Elizabeth Hoyt’s books usually have, and it was charming. I love the feel the fairytale adds to the whole story – it’s so charming.

I think this story suffers in the romance development, however. Because Sarah really dislikes rakes (understandably based on her past experiences) I didn’t quite buy her being attracted to Adam. I felt like there were some scenes missing for me to completely believe Sarah would start thinking of Adam as something other than rake.

Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Elizabeth Hoyt is a fun Christmas historical romance. It reminded me that I need to read more from Hoyt, because she’s clearly a fabulous storyteller. That said, it’s not perfect, and lacks in some areas.

Sarah St. John and Viscount Adam d’Arque have crossed paths, but it wasn’t a friendly exchange, because Sarah so clearly hated Adam on sight. Sarah isn’t fond of rakes, gentleman who seduce and carouse without thought for the women they hurt. But Sarah is about to get another, lovelier version of Adam as their lives are thrown together this holiday season.

Adam is accompanying his Grandmother to their yearly Christmas destination in the country, when their carriage breaks down in a storm. They have no choice but to take shelter at the St. John’s, imposing on them during their holiday festivities, something Adam would love to avoid, but he’s worried about his beloved ailing Grandmother. Seeing Sarah St. John again is an irritation, since she clearly despised him on their first meeting, but he’ll just have to make the best by teasing and tormenting her. As he gets to know Sarah, Adam is feels an irresistible pull towards this sweet, infuriating woman.

I just love a good antagonistic romance, and Elizabeth Hoyt makes them so much fun! There’s snips and snipes, sexual tension brewing under the surface, fun banter back in forth until Sarah and Adam realize they actually like each other. But can Sarah trust Adam with her heart? And is Adam interested in forever?

Elizabeth Hoyt’s talent as a writer shines even in a short number of pages. Once Upon a Christmas Eve is a steamy, chemistry filled romance in a Winter wonderland setting, perfect for the season!

A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Adam Rutledge, Viscount d’Arque loathes Christmas and he has good reason based on a horrific childhood. When the carriage carrying him and his beloved grandmother breaks down in a snowstorm, they are forced to seek refuge with the St. Johns. Mrs. St. Johns welcomes them, but her daughter, Sarah, is not happy with their guests. She hates rakes and Adam is a notorious rake. Back and forth the barbs fly between them, although Sarah begins to see a different side of Adam as he tends to his grandmother.

This was a sweet story that was predicable although I didn't care for such a graphic sex scene. The story moved along quickly to a happily ever after ending. If you're looking for a distraction for a few hours, this story was a quick read.

3.5 Stars
A nice little novella that fits well into the series. It does also work as a standalone, though I personally probably enjoyed this more because I read the series.
It's the perfect cute and fluffy to get some historical holiday cheer with some smut. It's rather short, too short for my taste. Which while we at it is my biggest issue with this.
I liked this a lot. But then it was over.
Way too fast.
Literally just got into the characters, queue smut scene and boom! HEA.
I was left wanting more. Lots more.
What we got, however, is a lovely little novella featuring Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Arque, who made an appearance in the series before this, getting his HEA.
I am not complaining about what's there rather what is not there.
While there is some interesting character building, which is a feat considering how short this is, the plot feels rushed, especially at the end.
The moment when Adam has his epiphany (which could have been a bit stalkerish creepy as well btw) was a bit... well... too sudden.
So loved the storyline, but it was too rushed. Enjoyed the characters, but was left wanting more.
Cute little novella, which leaves me hoping that Hoyt is going to write another novel for the series.

This was fun albeit short, even for a novella. It riffed a bit on The Frog Princess, which I enjoyed. In fact, had it been twice as long as it was, this probably would have been a higher rating. Short isn't bad but sometimes, particularly in romance, things move too fast for my taste. Such was the case here - there could have been so much more developed between the characters and the backstory. That being said, still a fun, historical romance set at Christmas!

Once Upon a Christmas Eve comes out soon on December 5, 2017, and you can purchase HERE.

Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Argue loathed Christmas. The banal cheerfulness. The sly demands for charity. The asinine party games.

Oh, and the obligatory journey to the countryside.

Adam Rutledge, Viscount d’Arque and admitted rake, loathes Christmas. Sarah St. John loathes rakes. It’s only fitting, then, that the two of them fall in love at Christmastime in the absolutely delightful Once Upon a Christmas Eve. I love a romance where a rake falls for the “on-the-shelf” heroine who isn’t impressed by his charm or good looks so this story was right up my alley.

It’s attraction masked by dislike at first sight when it comes to Adam and Sarah. Adam is used to women falling at his feet, so Sarah’s withering comments ruffle his feathers a bit. While Adam does live up to his reputation when it comes to women, he’s also smart, a genuinely nice man, and a grandson who loves his grandmother very much – how can you resist him? Even someone like Sarah, whose past experiences have given her good reason to distrust charming men, can’t hold out against Adam for very long. She’s his match in every way. She’s quick, intelligent, and clearly loves her family. Sparks strike immediately between these two, and even when they’re bickering the energy between them makes their back-and-forths fun to read. I couldn’t put this story down because Elizabeth Hoyt’s writing had me so wrapped up in Adam and Sarah’s romance. Since this is a novella, they do fall in love rather quickly, but with two such well-suited leads and a wealth of Christmas spirit shining on the page, I didn’t mind the swiftness and simply enjoyed the ride. And what a lovely ride it was. Sarah and Adam’s romance is engaging, sensual, fun, and left me smiling.

Once Upon a Christmas Eve is part of Ms. Hoyt’s Maiden Lane series, but even if you’re new to the books you can easily start with Sarah and Adam’s story. As a fan of the series, I was delighted that Godric and Megs (of Lord of Darkness) played supporting roles and it felt like a little gift to get a peek into their post-happily ever after lives. The only downside of this novella was it brought home once again how much I hate to see the Maiden Lane series end. Ms. Hoyt’s characters are always unique, interesting, and endearing and Adam and Sarah are no exception. If you’re looking for a heartwarming historical romance to get you in the holiday spirit, you definitely want to read Once Upon a Christmas Eve!

Welcome to the world of Maiden Lane, one of hope, acceptance, and the ability to overcome obstacles to love and be loved. Every book from Elizabeth delivers characters that are familiar, complex, and ready to prove that they are capable of love.

I have enjoyed each and every book in this must read series and the latest installment right before the holidays is a perfect addition to anyone's reading list! It's spicy, sweet, and best served with eggnog and a toasty fire!

A well known rake and a maiden thrown together by a storm and a broken wagon wheel. What could possibly happen in those circumstances? Everything you'd expect.

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Elizabeth Hoyt
Book 13.5 of the Maiden Lane series
Publisher: Forever Yours
Publication Date: December 5, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley

Summary (from Goodreads):

Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Arque, really rather loathes Christmas. The banal cheerfulness. The asinine party games. And, worst of all, the obligatory trip to the countryside. His grandmother, however, loves the holiday—and Adam loves his grandmother, so he'll brave the fiercest snowstorm to please her. But when their carriage wheel snaps, they're forced to seek shelter at the home of the most maddening, infuriating, and utterly beguiling woman he's ever met.

Sarah St. John really rather loathes rakes. The self-satisfied smirks. The sly predatory gazes. Oh, and the constant witty banter rife with double meaning. But in the spirit of the season, she'll welcome this admittedly handsome viscount into her home. But as the snowstorm rages, the Yule log crackles, and the tension rises, Sarah and Adam find themselves locked in a fiery, passionate kiss. If love is the true meaning of Christmas, it's the one gift this mismatched pair can't wait to unwrap.

What I Liked:

This novella was so cute! I adore the Maiden Lane series, and I love the holidays, so this story fit my mood perfectly. I tried to leave this one until closer to the publication date, but I was just too excited about a holiday romance. This is also the last story of the Maiden Lane, which is equal parts exciting and heartbreaking. Mostly heartbreaking. But it's a great add-on to the end of the series and I'm left with a feeling of contentment.

This novella tells the short love story of Sarah St. John and Viscount d'Arque. Sarah is the younger stepsister of Godric St. John, the male protagonist of book five (Lord of Darkness). She is spending the holidays with her mother, younger sisters, stepbrother, sister-in-law, and several other guests. An unexpected guest arrives due to a broken-down carriage, and it's someone that Sarah despises. Adam Rutledge is handsome, charming, rich, titled, and seemingly perfect - and a notorious rake. Sarah wants nothing to do with rakes after an embarrassing happenstance nearly ruined her reputation. But for the few days that Adam stays with the St. John family (because of the broken carriage, the snowstorm, and Adam's grandmother's health), Sarah begins to realize that Adam is not the careless rake she thought he was. And Adam begins to realize that he wants Sarah, and not just because she is so good at acting like she hates him. The holidays are a perfect time for stolen kisses and warm embraces and blooming love stories. As our protagonists find out!

Adam was introduced early in the series, at least in book five for sure (possibly earlier but I can't remember). He flirted with Megs (Godric's wife) in book five, and Godric hasn't really liked him since. Sarah St. John has never liked him. But Adam is very much a misjudged man. He is definitely a rake, but he's actually a sweet guy underneath his playful, wicked facade. He is a good man despite his reputation.

Sarah seems innocent and sweet and boring, just how she wants it. Years ago, she experienced an untoward encounter with a gentleman that could have led to ruin. Years later, she has continued to shut down courtships and turn away gentlemen, because she doesn't want her reputation to be damaged. Something about Adam makes her blood heat, and not in a bad way. Sarah may act prim and proper, but she loves Adam's wickedness.

Hate-to-love romances are my favorite, and this romance was a wonderful example of the trope. The animosity is obvious, but there is more simmering beneath the surface. Adam and Sarah clash over and over, and there is plenty of banter and wit in this story. I loved seeing them fall for each other. It was sweet and passionate, with just enough chemistry.

I love holiday stories! This novella is very much centered around Christmas, with everyone having gathered at Hedge House for Christmas. There is something joyful and romantic about the Christmas season, and it shines in this book. I am loving this year's holiday romances - this novella included, of course!

This story was short (it's a novella) but it is very lovely. If you're looking for something short and sweet and swoony, try this novella. Usually I don't bother with them but this story was adorable. Plus, there are plenty of Godric/Megs cameos! And of course the novella ends beautifully. I love Adam and Sarah together and I'm so glad Hoyt wrote this novella.

What I Did Not Like:

Nothing to complain about! This novella was quite wonderful.

Would I Recommend It:

I definitely recommend this novella to anyone who has read any of the Maiden Lane books. Like I said, usually I don't bother with novellas because they're such a tease and way too short. But this novella was very complete, and didn't feel too short or rushed. The romance was written so well and I loved the characters. It was a refreshing, sweet, fun story to read - and perfect for the holidays.

And for those that have not read any of the Maiden Lane books - of course I highly recommend the series, and starting from the beginning, at that. But the novellas are also a great way to get into the series. Short and sweet and completely uniquely Elizabeth Hoyt. I personally think no one writes historical romance quite like Hoyt. She has her own style and level, and while I love many HR writers and their books, I think Hoyt is one of the best!

Rating:

4 stars. I'm really sad about this series ending. Duke of Desire is the last full-length novel, and the novellas that have been published this year are among the last short additions. I am so hoping for a Maximus/Artemis novella or epilogue or something! Duke of Midnight was my favorite.

This had all the heat and compelling characters that Hoyt is known for. She is truly one of the masters of the genre. Will definitely recommend it to my patrons!