Dreams of Christmas by Barbara Miller
The spirit of Christmas past leads Lord Vance to an inn where he discovers the woman of his dreams. Sarah Pelham is searching for her missing twin sister but will she take time during the holiday season to find her own happiness?

Bride of Belznickel by Kate Dolan
American Hannah Brown is ridiculed by her cousins constantly so she decides to get back at them by scaring them with a story of the Christmas demon. When her tale starts to come true she wonders if it really is just her imagination.

Jenna's Eternal Lover by Jeanne Savery
The late Lord Everston's heirs have gathered for the holidays and to bid farewell to their dear friend as she waits to join her deceased lover. Yet through their grief they celebrate knowing Jenna and her true love can not be separated even in death.

Miss Isabella Thaws a Frosty Lord by Larissa Lyons
Isabella loves Christmas. Lord Frostwood despises Christmas. Can a blind young miss, warm his hardened heart with some warm kisses under the holiday mistletoe and help him see the joy the season has to offer?

This anthology was an enjoyable Christmas read. I loved the paranormal themes joined with historical holiday fare. The first story seemed to drag a bit, leaving me somewhat reluctant to continue. However, I liked the character development and the relationship between the hero and the heroine. In the second tale I found it hard to make a connection with the romantic couple as I felt I never really got to know them. I can't really say that I disliked the story but neither can I say that I particularly liked it. The remaining three stories were fabulous. I'm curious about the Christmas demon and plan to do some research so that I can scare my own cousins. This was a truly fun read that left me with a huge grin on my face. In the fourth tale it was wonderful to get reacquainted with some familiar characters. I suggest if you haven't read the previous stories in the series you do so in order to fully enjoy the quirky ensemble. I must say that I believe they saved the best for last. This short story had it all; humor and tears, a fantastic cast of secondary characters, a swift plot and witty dialogue. I absolutely loved Frostwood and Isabella makes him a perfect match. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens to Harriet and I hope she gets her very own story. Larissa Lyons has definitely been added to my must-read list. I recommend this anthology to regency or paranormal fans; it would also be a treat for those who enjoy holiday reads.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Sweet

Reviewer: Theresa Joseph
December 21, 2009