Regency Christmas Spirits

As with the liquid variety of spirits, some being more potent than others, this book will leave the reader in varying degress of tipsiness, depending on the most recently-read story. Five highly-acclaimed Regency authors are represented here, with their stories featured in alphabetical order by the authors last name, with that of Nancy Butler taking pride of place as first and best in this edition-in this reader's opinion. Other contributors are Emma Jensen, Edith Layton, Barbara Metzger and Andrea Pickens. THE MERRY WANDERER from Nancy Butler is fantasy at its very best for the season of wishes and dreams. Robin Goodfellow is not exactly what he appears to be when he presents himself at Arden House, the home of Julia, Lady of Islay. Nearing the end of her year of mourning, Julia is now facing the possible loss of her home and her younger brother, when the charming stranger intrudes into her very life. He does seem to be a bit strange, but then, so was her father. And so, yet, is her cousin, who is the threat to her happiness. After a bit of determination, and some help from friendly spirits, Robin finds himself forced to choose between his former legendary life-style, and a new, more mortal one. With help from Julia-and her younger brother, Harry-he makes the right, the only choice possible, bringing a Merry Yuletide to all.'Tis no secret that Emma Jensen has a huge soft spot for Ireland, and she exploits this for all it's worth in the delightful tale extolling THE WEXFORD CAROL. Hollymore, the ancient and exceedingly dilapidated home of Elizabeth Fitzhollis is also in jeopardy. This time, however, it's more easily understood. Hollymore is falling apart around her very ears, and has been sold by the new heir to a Duke from Wales, who plans to tear it down and build a hunting estate. The Duke sends his cousin, a Captain Jones, to survey and inspect. Or so Elizabeth is told by her ancient solicitor. Turns out the gentleman is really Captain Lord Rhys Edward-Jones, and he's no more impervious to the ghosts of Hollymore than is Elizabeth. Edith Layton's story-telling with its wicked sense of humor and wordplay propelled her to the top of my list of favorites, and has kept her very near the top for all these many years. HIGH SPIRITS is a different sort of story; heart-warming, to be sure, because it does, after all, have a happy ending. Layton of whatever vintage is excellent, and many readers will find a extra message in this tale of young Arabella, her silver flask and the tall, dark and handsome Rupert.THE CHRISTMAS CURSE by Barbara Metzger is a romp, plain and simple. Well, not so plain and not so simple, really. It is the strangest mixture of bawdy and sweet. And the spirits? Not your ordinary selection, to be sure, as Sir Olnic and his Lady Edryth are the very restless, unhappy 'spirited' inhabitants of Worth Keep, doomed to wander the halls endlessly, until the curse muttered by the Lady be lifted. This is not an easy trick, either, and so f

The Merry Wanderer, by Nancy ButlerA mischievous forest spirit spends the holidays inflicting mayhem among mortals...and is unexpectedly enchanted by love.The lovers are enticing; the voice is light and quirky, and the magic is terrific fun. If you like fantasy romance, you will really enjoy this novella.The Wexford Carol, by Emma JensenA remarkable lady touches the heart of a Scrooge-like hero.This is a sweet and funny update of A Christmas Carol. The writing is smooth and witty. The characters are well-drawn and likeable. The romance is heart-warming.High Spirits, by Edith LaytonAn stiff-rumped lord is disgruntled to find himself growing far too fond of a lively young lady determined to overindulge during the holidays.Terrific, sexy, sardonic earl with a sense of humor in the tradition of Georgette Heyer. The heroine is strong and amusing.The Christmas Curse, by Barbara MetzgerTo get out from under a curse, the spirits of a knight and his lady must help a hapless descendent find himself a bride.I am particularly find of matchmaking ghosts, and the memorable pair from the ever-hilarious Ms. Metzger are real winners. The romantic couple are adorable, and Ms. Metzger's frisky authorial voice makes the story spin along.A Gathering of Gifts, by Andrea PickensWhen a much indulged young lady and a cynical ex-soldier are thrown together for the holidays, much to the wonder of both, they find love.Ms. Pickens has a very authentic Regency voice, bringing the Regency world very much to life. Her characters are unique and well drawn, and their redemption of each other very moving.

Five Regency stories of how five couples were brought together during the holiday season of Christmas. "They Merry Wanderer: The Spirit Of Mischief" by Nancy Butler has the magic of the fairies in it! "The Wexford Carol" by Emma Jenson, "High Spirits" by Edith Layton, and "A Gathering Of Gifts" by Andrea Pickens each show the love and joys of Christmas. And "The Christmas Curse" by Barbara Metzger involves a couple of ghosts! **** Perfect for Regency fans all over! I stopped after each one so I would not confuse the next set of characters with the ones I had just finished. So I can honestly say that each story left me with a warm glow and had me smiling throughout the day. Lovely! **** Reviewed by Detra Fitch