Review: characters are beautifully developed showing their fears and concerns
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 13, 2014
A well-developed plot and surprisingly complex characters highlight this Christmas Themed novella, and provide plenty of heartwarming moments for readers fond of Victorian romance.Adriana has overcome her lowly beginnings and risen to the position of governess for the Duke’s ward.  All of her backstory presented to Alexander, however, was a lie: yet her capable care and concern for his ward was never an issue.  When he confronts Adriana with his knowledge of her deception, and insists that she becomes his mistress, she counters his proposition.Desperate to save her position and not lose her connection to the little girl, Adriana is guarded and unsure,  especially when Alexander’s questions become more pointed, and he accepts with a fair amount of grace, her chastisement.Despite the brevity of the story, characters are beautifully developed showing their fears and concerns and present each character with a new view on hope, life and love. Máire Claremont has given these characters a clear path to their happy ever after, and provided a clever background that highlights the potential of Christmas for everyone.I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.