The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection

This is a very delightful collection of "fairy tale" Christmas stories. I enjoyed each unique story, some by new to me authors and others by some of my favorite authors. Though I am reading this in June, it gave me the Christmas spirit to start my summer!
I don't know how a publisher decides where to place a book in a collection, but I think this collection is perfectly arranged. The stories did not build upon each other, but the progression was in a good order. Each heroine faced difficulty and each story had its own happy ending.
I don't wish to give away the story lines but I will say, I love the name Melisande.

Fun read! Loved the stories.Read on a 100 degree day in July and could feel Christmas in the air!
The stories are whimsical,thought provoking,enduring,and just plain fun.A good way to spend a lazy afternoon. So grab a cup of cocoa,throw another log in on the fire and treat yourself to a good holiday read You won't be disappointed.

The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection, published by Barbour Books and written by a number of authors, is a collection of Victorian romance stories set in the Christmas time of the year. Authors such as CJ Chase; Susanne Dietze; Rita Gerlach; Kathleen Maher; Gabrielle Meyer; Carrie Fancett Pagels; Vanessa Riley; Lorna Seilstad, and Erica Vetsch. All established authors.

This collection of short stories was a charming and delightful romantic read; a read in which the girl and the guy are together in the end despite various things that seemed designed to keep them apart. Some may say if they know the two lovebirds get together in the end, why bother reading the book? Stories that might just seem a wee bit sappy.

But that is the point. We all need feel good, love stories that are more about the journey than the end result. The ending is just icing on the cake! We need those times of reflection, perhaps, on our own “courtships”, that remind us of the silly and goofy things we did way back then. Perhaps we may be encouragered to remember our parents stories. Along with remembering some of the fun things, we may be reminded of just why we love this person in the first place; the kind of things that sometimes get lost in the day to day, year to year shuffle of ordinary life. The kind of memories that puts a smile on your lips and a sparkle in your eyes, and just maybe an extra hug for your beloved.

Yes, we need stories like this. The authors who have written this compilation of delightful and romantic Christmas stories, know their history and did their research, but they also know how to write stories that will make the reader’s heart go pitter-pat once again.

The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection by various authors will make a nice Christmas gift for those who enjoy historical novels with a Christmas theme.
Set in the Victorian era there are nine stories of women dreaming of the perfect Christmas wedding. Each faces a challenge and is not expecting to wed, at least not this Christmas. Each story is unique in its characters and setting allowing the author to take the reader on path that twists and turns to the often-surprising ending. The stories are filled with love, laughter and humor while keeping the focus on God and the true meaning of Christmas.
I enjoyed this book very much as I read it in summer. A nice reminder of cooler weather and that Christmas with all its joy will come again soon. I found it difficult to put down. I give this book 5 of 5 stars. Each author brings a new story to life that will keep the reader glued to the pages. The characters have substance and are very realistic, acting in ways one would expect. Each story title gives us a hint of what the focus of the story will be. I truly believe this will make a great Christmas gift.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

Barbour Publishing has me happily traveling all over today, through history and time, and now I’m ensconced in The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection,
addictively reading nine amazing stories from authors totally new to me. I’m in Victorian heaven. Please pass the wassail! 5/5

Pub Date 01 Sep 2018

Thanks to Barbour Books and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are fully mine.

#TheVictorianChristmasBridesCollection #NetGalley

Love reading these novella collections Which I seem to be happily collecting btw! There are 9 stories set in the 1800 time frame and nice Christmas stories. But great even for warm summer days! There were several new authors for me. And I enjoyed their style, their stories making for a wonderful reading collection. It would be nice to see some of these stories developed into a full length book. Great stories!

These were happy stories that leave you happy that you were able to read them. Because of the time period involved, I am sure much research time was involved in the writings so that they would be true to the time. And they were.

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

This is a lovely collection of Victorian Christmas novellas. Each has its own charm, and that’s what makes this such a good compilation. All the authors did a great job writing their stories, and I will be looking for new books from each one of them. These stories are clean and sweet, just the right length for those times when you want something lighter to read. This collection can be read during each Christmas season to come and I’ll be looking forward to adding this one to my list of favorite Christmas books.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection
Stories by C J Chase, Susanne Dietze, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen Maher, Gabrielle Meyer, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Vanessa Riley, Lorna Seilstad and Erica Vetsch
I loved each and every one of these stories. I’d be hard pressed to find a favorite among them. All are well told and keep one’s attention. A wonderful read for the season and all heartwarming to not only put you in the mood for Christmas, but leave you feeling content and happy.
A complimentary copy was provided by Barbour Publishing through Net Galley with no review required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a delightful collection of stories. They were mainly set in England but some were in America and Canada. They did all have a Christian influence and were sweet romances. I had only read books by Vanessa Riley before but I enjoyed them all. They concerned people from various social stations, so altogether a good mix. There were several stories that I thought were worth 5 stars and those were ‘One Golden Ring’, Paper Snowflakes Christmas ‘ and ‘ Father Christmas ‘. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A lovely collection of Christmas themed romances that transport you back in time to the day to day lives of the Victorian Christmas Seasons. Each story held my interest, made me smile, and brought to life a little piece of that era for me. A wonderful holiday read or for any time you want to escape the 21st century!

I found each of the novellas in The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection a delight to read.
For me, Christmas romance should have happy endings, I was not disappointed at all. I love some of the twists and turns taken by the authors and the surprises. I highly recommend this book.
*After the privilege of reading this book on NetGalley, I was very excited to receive a print copy signed by four of the authors! I will cherish it.

I have always enjoyed the Victorian era and lovers of Dickens will surely enjoy a few of these touching tales of weddings, love, and the serene touch of a woman's heart. From Canada to across the pond, each tale from a different author will enchant you with a feeling of the holidays and bring your tidings of joy and warmth from the initial hello to the part where they say I do. These are the kind of books that lift up your spirits and make it Christmas all year long.

This book was delightful. The stories gave insight to hope, love, and faith. Each story came with its characters having their own issues. Men as well as women. Each seeking peace and wanting more in their lives. You can almost see the background decorated for Christmas and smell the scents of the season. Each couple works through their issues to make their Christmas one in a lifetime. These stories remind us that there is hope for a brighter life if we just have faith. I found some Authors I didn't know and will be looking up more material they have written. This book was given to me as an ARC by netgalley for an honest review.

The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection Experience a Dickens of a Christmas 9 Women Dream of Perfect Christmases during the Victorian Era by C.J. Chase, Susanne Dietze, Rita Gerlach, Kathleen L. Maher, Gabrielle Meyer, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Vanessa Riley, Lorna Seilstad, Erica Vetsch

I love these collections of short novels by Barbour; they are inspiring, they speak at the heart and in particular they communicate great and good feelings. The cover of these Victorians short Christmas's novels with a touch of Dickensian atmosphere is simply amazing, and serenity and tranquillity will descend upon you when you will read these novels leaving you better than how they had found you before.

The story I read is A Christmas Vow written by Gabrielle Meyer. Beautiful, lady Ashleigh is still single and that year her family experienced important, sad departures. It's Christmas and a party was hosted by the family. Ashleigh discovers that because of a pact established by her family and the one of Campbell, in case that she would have been still single (like also the son of mr.Campbell of course who lives in America) she would have married Christopher Campbell; both of them informed of this story are fighting against this law: why marrying someone that maybe we don't love or we don't like?
Plus Christopher Campbell remembered the past, when they were more little, also the latest time she saw her. No: it was excluded. Invited at this party he is skeptical since he won't see her again; and vice-versa; they will understand, slowly that maybe this match created by humans isn't so wrong at all.
The story, anyway will become more complicated and there will be also with the entrance in scene of another potential boyfriend; but Christmas and a Christmas's Tree, will sort out the problems...

The other novels are: One Golden Ring by C.J. Chase, Star of Wonder by Susanne Dietze, The Holly and the Ivy by Rita Gerlach, Love Brick by Brick by Kathleen L. Maher, A Christmas Vow by Gabrielle Meyer, The Sugarplum Ladies by Carrie Fancett Pagels, Paper Snowflake Christmas by Vanessa Riley, Father Christmas by Lorna Seilstad, The Perfect Christmas by Erica Vetsch

I thank NetGalley and Barbour for this ebook.

This era is a favorite read for me and these ladies have done a wonderful job of making Christmas dreams come true! Each story different but oh such interesting goings on.. If you like the Victorian Era.. You should enjoy this collection, I certainly did!

Enjoyed this collection more than others by multiple authors; though they were all very different, the styles meshed and flowed well. Each story only took me about an hour; probably a good thing for a vacation read, but lessened my enjoyment some. That said, I particularly enjoyed One Golden Ring and Father Christmas, which I would probably have given Five Stars independently.

A wonderful collection of nine new stories set during the Christmas season! Many of these take place in England, as well as America and Canada, celebrating with traditions started in Queen Victoria's era. The descriptions were lovely, with decorations like mistletoe, kissing balls, garlands, candles, trees, and the special holiday foods, filling the air with spices. It was easy to imagine the scenes, and some that were set at large estates reminded me of favorite BBC shows with the upstairs, downstairs feel.

Even though the tales took place in the 1830's to the early 1900's, the characters had some of the same struggles we do today, making these inspirational and relevant reads. Some of the themes that stood out to me were extending and receiving grace, forgiveness, finding security in Christ, learning to trust God in uncertain times, loving others less fortunate, receiving love when we feel unworthy, and the importance of prayer. Many had Scripture at the beginning and in the tale too.

The stories were all good, but a few really were outstanding. I loved Father Christmas by Lorna Seilstad, and A Perfect Christmas by Erica Vetsch; Star of Wonder by Susanne Dietze, and A Christmas Promise by Gabrielle Meyer were also very good. Carrie Fancett Pagels' was interesting with many characters from her other books popping in and out. The bit of mystery in a few added a nice touch too.

Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian historical romances, especially set in the holiday season.
4.5 stars

I enjoyed each of these books individually and as a group. They are all separate from one another but work well as a collection of Christmas novellas. Each story is different, the characters unique, and the settings perfect for Victorian Christmas.

The trials endured through each story were both heartfelt, and at times, heartbreaking. While the women face arranged marriages, loss, and poverty, they never lose sight of God and His ability to bring them through the Christmas season. The men are strong, capable and I think they swept the women off their feet at least once in each novella ( I love that part! I’m a hopeless romantic and not afraid to admit it. )

Since these are Dickens Christmas novellas, the history of Dickens brings a nice surprise to each story and I enjoyed the fact that each woman either had a copy of a Dickens novel or had something that represented Dickens in the storyline. It made me want to go read every Dickens book I could get my hands on.

For there to be nine novellas in this collection, no two stories were the same. Each set of characters faced different circumstances, different troubles, and the conflict was solved with the satisfaction of God’s grace. It was nice to read a set of stories that did not focus singularly on the richness of high society. There was a nice balance of poverty, whether the women were helping children at the ragged school as Beatrix Kent did in Father Christmas or they made their way from poverty to working class like Melisande in The Perfect Christmas. This collection of stories has a deeper meaning than rich women looking for husbands to care for them. These are all independent women, who in fact, are not looking for husbands at all. I think that is one of the most fun aspects of this collection. No one is seeking love, but love finds them anyway. Through God and prayer, problems are solved and love is granted.

I love Christmas stories and this collection definitely set me up for the season. I’m sure I will be back to read it again and again through the years. Each story is in itself a quick read, but the entire collection of nine novellas will keep you busy for quite some time. Rest assured that you will not mind in the least. Each author brings their own voice to their story and a fresh perspective to the Christmas season. You will encounter everything from snowball fights to paper boats. The spirit of God and Christmas is dominant but not overpowering. A highly recommended collection for your Christmas reading.

Another Christmas Brides Collection from Barbour Books. This time I had the privilege of reading Victorian Christmas Brides and their journey to the alter. What a great collection to have when you need a short read, when not enough time for a full size book! Each of these stories with have you smiling, though there will be some difficult issues, but still heartwarming stories to fill your Christmas with love!

This copy was provided by NetGalley. The opinions here are mine only!

Nine enjoyable stories from some gifted authors! Several of these authors I have never read before and this book was a great way to check them out. I enjoyed some stories more than others and would have liked them to be longer but this is a great book to read a single story when you are looking for a short, sweet story. Each novella takes place in a different place such as, England, Washington DC, and Windsor/Detroit but all of them are in the Victorian Era (1837 to 1900). Each has an obstacle to overcome to have the perfect Christmas. Can they do it?

I received this book from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.

The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection is a delightful book of shorts stories by several different authors. I loved all the stories. They are sweet and romantic with something for everyone who wants to read about love with a Christmas theme with all with happily ever afters. I can't pick a favorite as all of them were wonderful. I received this book from Net Galley and Barbour Publishing for a honest review and no compensation otherwise. The opinions expressed are my own

“The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection” included novellas about different women and their loves. Set in the Christmas season, they provide a variety of perspectives and personalities. I enjoyed each of them, although it is not the Christmas season just yet. The stories included a definite Christian message, although not preachy or overwhelming. The message was seamlessly woven into each story. I recommend this book for anyone who likes to read short romance novels/stories set during the Christmas season.

I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

I love Christmas stories. Whether they’re historical or contemporary, I love reading yuletide tales. But to me, Victorian Christmas stories are extra special. It’s two of my favorite things rolled into one. That’s why I was drawn to The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection from Barbour Books, featuring stories by nine different authors. And this lovely collection did not disappoint. Each author has provided a heartwarming story perfect for the Christmas season. Endearing heroines and chivalrous heroes provide wonderful leading characters for all nine stories. And the Christmas traditions described throughout the book appealed to both the history enthusiast and Christmas lover in me. I thoroughly enjoyed this collection.

If you love historical fiction and Christmas stories, I think you will definitely enjoy The Victorian Christmas Brides Collection.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Thank you to Barbour Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of this lovely collection full of Christmas cheer.

Easy Christmas read!

This collection of Christmas stories is the perfect Christmas vacation read. The stories are short enough to read in an hour or so, perfect for catching a quick few minutes of "introverted time" while visiting your strange Aunt Clara. Light-hearted and clean, these stories are essentially a "Hallmark Christmas movie" experience on page. While a few stories did not catch my interest, others did, making this an easy put-it-down-pick-it-up-again option. As a plus, it's a safe book to hand your grandmother. ;)

Rated G
--no sex
--no violence
--no language

This collaboration of novellas is beautiful! Each one is filled with lovable characters and depth. The messages form God are woven intricately within and I was definitely captivated throughout. Four stars and recommendations for sure!

Oh my goodness, this was such a fun Christmas read that really made me feel happy and added to the holiday season. Despite the characters being flawed, as we all are they worked to overcome and make themselves and their world a better place. Very encouraging stories your going to enjoy reading!
Pub Date 01 Sep 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book . Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.

The women in the Victoria Christmas Brides Collection did not fail to disappoint with heartwarming stories set in Victorian England. In their usual fashion, the female protagonists, challenge the societal norms of their time. It is difficult to pick out a favourite story because each story has its unique elements and helps the reader understand the times that they lived in. For instance, Overall, the Runaway Bride Collection is a comforting pick for a cosy winter reading day or night.

I enjoyed all the stories in this collection some more than others. Some of them made me laugh and I even got tears with one. I know I will be searching out all of the nine authors other books. That is one thing I like about collections like this! You get to read a variety of stories. This collection won’t disappoint.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.

Wow. What a fabulous collection. These are all special, deep and involved stories. Well worth the read, whether it's Christmas time or not. Highly recommended to keep your attention. Not your run of the mill romances.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

This is an enchanting collection of Victorian Christmas stories. I found new authors that I will continue to follow --they had some sweet romances! And there were also the 'familiar' friends, whose books are always wonderful. Nice collection.