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Rockliffe #6.1
Midwinter Magic
Celebrate among old friends ... and perhaps a gate-crasher or two. There will be wassailers and kissing-boughs; music, dancing and romance; laughter and some tears. Above all, expect the unexpected because at Christmas anything can happen.
So accept your invitation for what promises to be the most talked-of house-party of 1778 ... and is also a last Huzzah to the Rockliffe series.
So accept your invitation for what promises to be the most talked-of house-party of 1778 ... and is also a last Huzzah to the Rockliffe series.
143 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2020
43 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Stella Riley
23 books454 followers Stella Riley lives in Kent, England. She enjoys theatre, travel and playing the harpsichord.
Her award-winning 7 book Rockliffe series (recommended in The Times!) is available in audio, narrated by Alex Wyndham.
She is also the author of 6 books set in the 17th century: The Marigold Chain, A Splendid Defiance, The Black Madonna, Garland of Straw, The King's Falcon and Lords of Misrule.
All titles are available from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.
Rockliffe Book 6 - Cadenza - is the 2019 Readers' Favourite gold medallist for Historical Romance and also the 2021 Book Excellence Awards winner in the Romance category.
Her award-winning 7 book Rockliffe series (recommended in The Times!) is available in audio, narrated by Alex Wyndham.
She is also the author of 6 books set in the 17th century: The Marigold Chain, A Splendid Defiance, The Black Madonna, Garland of Straw, The King's Falcon and Lords of Misrule.
All titles are available from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.
Rockliffe Book 6 - Cadenza - is the 2019 Readers' Favourite gold medallist for Historical Romance and also the 2021 Book Excellence Awards winner in the Romance category.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
December 23, 2020
What a delightful story and my favorite couple got their well deserved miracle!
❤️❤️❤️
❤️❤️❤️
December 19, 2020
All of my favorite people in one place (and a couple I could’ve done without), romances, holiday warmth and laughter and a bonafide Christmas miracle. 🥰 Perfection. A little holiday gift from Stella Riley to her readers. ❤️
My one tiny regret was that it didn’t make it to audio so I missed Alex Wyndham’s fabulous narration but despite that, this was an absolute treat!
My one tiny regret was that it didn’t make it to audio so I missed Alex Wyndham’s fabulous narration but despite that, this was an absolute treat!
October 13, 2021
I loved Stella Riley’s superb
Rockliffe
series and was saddened when it came to an end. To say I was overjoyed when she announced the release of this novella is an understatement, and what a festive treat it was.
It was an absolute joy to have so many of my beloved characters all gathered together to celebrate Christmas. Rockliffe is his usual unflappable self, and I was also delighted to see that Sebastian is still the ‘master of mischief’.
If I were to choose one character that really stands out, it’s Julian. He is such a wonderful father to Tom, Rob and Ellie - so kind, loving and patient. The children obviously adore him and I challenge anyone not to have tears in their eyes when Tom tells his story.
There are some unwelcome guests in the form of Adrian’s mother, the Dowager Countess of Sarre, and Caroline’s mother, Mrs Hayward. These two could definitely give the Macbeth witches a run for their money and so I love how Rockliffe subjects the Dowager Countess to one of his snubs.
There is romance in the air for four of the guests and some special Christmas magic that is sure to warm your heart.
MY VERDICT: This is an enchanting story full of warmth, charm, fun, laughter and romance. It’s the perfect close to this wonderful series.
It was an absolute joy to have so many of my beloved characters all gathered together to celebrate Christmas. Rockliffe is his usual unflappable self, and I was also delighted to see that Sebastian is still the ‘master of mischief’.
If I were to choose one character that really stands out, it’s Julian. He is such a wonderful father to Tom, Rob and Ellie - so kind, loving and patient. The children obviously adore him and I challenge anyone not to have tears in their eyes when Tom tells his story.
There are some unwelcome guests in the form of Adrian’s mother, the Dowager Countess of Sarre, and Caroline’s mother, Mrs Hayward. These two could definitely give the Macbeth witches a run for their money and so I love how Rockliffe subjects the Dowager Countess to one of his snubs.
There is romance in the air for four of the guests and some special Christmas magic that is sure to warm your heart.
MY VERDICT: This is an enchanting story full of warmth, charm, fun, laughter and romance. It’s the perfect close to this wonderful series.
December 30, 2020
I've given this a B+ at AAR, 4.5 stars
In Midwinter Magic, the final book in her Georgian-era Rockliffe series, author Stella Riley bids a heartwarming and utterly charming farewell to her cast of much-loved characters by bringing them all together for a memorable and magical Christmas celebration. (A warning – if you’re not familiar with the six novels that precede this series finale, you’ll likely have trouble keeping track of all the characters; if that’s the case, go back to book one, The Parfit Knight and make your way through the other books; I promise you won’t regret it!)
It’s Christmas 1778, and the Earl and Countess of Sarre – Adrian and Caroline Devereux – ( The Player ) have invited their closest friends to Sarre Park in Kent for the festive season. The Rockliffes, Amberleys, Chalfonts – and their respective children – the Audleys and Wynstantons, and Caroline’s grandpa Maitland and her good friend, Lily Brassington will all be in attendance, and Adrian and Caroline are looking forward to a convivial time spent in good company. Preparations for the house party are well under way, despite their housekeeper’s doom-laden pronouncements that decorating the house before Christmas Eve will bring bad luck – and Adrian has tasked his closest friend Bertrand Didier with overseeing the activities and entertainment for the duration.
With the company all assembled, things get off to a wonderful start with a visit to the beach – but on their return, it seems Betsy’s dire predictions have come true; Caroline’s pushy, social-climbing mother has arrived uninvited, and has brought Caroline’s two sisters with her. Caroline had been planning to invite them to stay at a later date, wanting to spare her guests Mrs. Maitland’s continual toadying and thinly veiled insults. But there’s nothing to be done; Caroline can’t send them back home and room is found for them at nearby Devereux House.
Otherwise, however, the house party continues as planned, with plenty of activities – for the adults as well as the children – overseen by the wily Bertrand, who really does seem to have thought of everything!
One of the many things I’ve always enjoyed about Stella Riley’s books is the way she creates such genuine friendships between her characters, something which is much in evidence here as we get to see so many of them interacting with each other, teasing and joking and supporting each other as all good friends should. There are two delightful romances to be found here (the one between the more mature couple was especially nice to see), and the various Christmas traditions are skilfully and vividly integrated into the story so that you can almost smell the greenery and see the coloured ribbons on the kissing boughs. Best of all, these are the characters we’ve come to know and love; Rock is his ducal, perceptive self, Sebastian is witty and a teeny bit naughty, Julian is charmingly distracted; and the children in the story are well-written and feel age appropriate. There are some wonderfully entertaining set-pieces, too – a boisterous game of football on the beach, a visit to Deal Castle, an impromptu concert for the tenants and villagers – and one of the most memorable moments in the book comes when Tom – the eldest of Julian and Arabella’s wards – reads a letter he’s written about his life, and his love for his adopted father, which is incredibly poignant and quite beautifully done.
The inclusion of the Maitlands and later, of Adrian’s obnoxious mother, serve to highlight that old adage that while you can choose your friends, you can’t choose your family; and their presence provides a stark contrast to the genuine warmth and affection the other characters so obviously find in their friendships and the happiness that permeates the rest of the book.
A Christmas story wouldn’t be a Christmas story without a bit of magic, and that’s here, too – albeit not in a way you might expect, and which I can’t say too much about without giving spoilers. Suffice it to say that it’s woven carefully through the story and is sure to delight fans of the series.
Midwinter Magic is just that, a magical combination of warmth and wit, love and laughter, and a perfect conclusion to one of the best historical romance series around.
In Midwinter Magic, the final book in her Georgian-era Rockliffe series, author Stella Riley bids a heartwarming and utterly charming farewell to her cast of much-loved characters by bringing them all together for a memorable and magical Christmas celebration. (A warning – if you’re not familiar with the six novels that precede this series finale, you’ll likely have trouble keeping track of all the characters; if that’s the case, go back to book one, The Parfit Knight and make your way through the other books; I promise you won’t regret it!)
It’s Christmas 1778, and the Earl and Countess of Sarre – Adrian and Caroline Devereux – ( The Player ) have invited their closest friends to Sarre Park in Kent for the festive season. The Rockliffes, Amberleys, Chalfonts – and their respective children – the Audleys and Wynstantons, and Caroline’s grandpa Maitland and her good friend, Lily Brassington will all be in attendance, and Adrian and Caroline are looking forward to a convivial time spent in good company. Preparations for the house party are well under way, despite their housekeeper’s doom-laden pronouncements that decorating the house before Christmas Eve will bring bad luck – and Adrian has tasked his closest friend Bertrand Didier with overseeing the activities and entertainment for the duration.
With the company all assembled, things get off to a wonderful start with a visit to the beach – but on their return, it seems Betsy’s dire predictions have come true; Caroline’s pushy, social-climbing mother has arrived uninvited, and has brought Caroline’s two sisters with her. Caroline had been planning to invite them to stay at a later date, wanting to spare her guests Mrs. Maitland’s continual toadying and thinly veiled insults. But there’s nothing to be done; Caroline can’t send them back home and room is found for them at nearby Devereux House.
Otherwise, however, the house party continues as planned, with plenty of activities – for the adults as well as the children – overseen by the wily Bertrand, who really does seem to have thought of everything!
One of the many things I’ve always enjoyed about Stella Riley’s books is the way she creates such genuine friendships between her characters, something which is much in evidence here as we get to see so many of them interacting with each other, teasing and joking and supporting each other as all good friends should. There are two delightful romances to be found here (the one between the more mature couple was especially nice to see), and the various Christmas traditions are skilfully and vividly integrated into the story so that you can almost smell the greenery and see the coloured ribbons on the kissing boughs. Best of all, these are the characters we’ve come to know and love; Rock is his ducal, perceptive self, Sebastian is witty and a teeny bit naughty, Julian is charmingly distracted; and the children in the story are well-written and feel age appropriate. There are some wonderfully entertaining set-pieces, too – a boisterous game of football on the beach, a visit to Deal Castle, an impromptu concert for the tenants and villagers – and one of the most memorable moments in the book comes when Tom – the eldest of Julian and Arabella’s wards – reads a letter he’s written about his life, and his love for his adopted father, which is incredibly poignant and quite beautifully done.
The inclusion of the Maitlands and later, of Adrian’s obnoxious mother, serve to highlight that old adage that while you can choose your friends, you can’t choose your family; and their presence provides a stark contrast to the genuine warmth and affection the other characters so obviously find in their friendships and the happiness that permeates the rest of the book.
A Christmas story wouldn’t be a Christmas story without a bit of magic, and that’s here, too – albeit not in a way you might expect, and which I can’t say too much about without giving spoilers. Suffice it to say that it’s woven carefully through the story and is sure to delight fans of the series.
Midwinter Magic is just that, a magical combination of warmth and wit, love and laughter, and a perfect conclusion to one of the best historical romance series around.
December 8, 2020
If you enjoy reading those annual Christmas newsletters cousins send out every year to keep you informed about the doings of all their family members, you'll love this Stella Riley novella. After all, all these beloved characters do almost feel like family if you are a devoted reader of all the books of this Rockliffe series by Riley.
The problem for me is that I find those newsletters a bit boring and ditto this novella. Almost everybody from most of the books gets together at Adrian and Caroline's home (that's the Earl and Countess of Sarre, from THE PLAYER) for the holidays. We get to see how devoted all the couples still are and how loving to their children and how close all the families are to each other. That's nice, but not especially exciting.
We also have to endure a couple of mothers-in-law from hell. That would be Adrian's and Caroline's and they haven't yet reconciled themselves to Adrian and Caroline's very happy mesalliance. They, especially Caroline's mother, provide the only conflicts to be found in the book. Other than that, it's love, love, love in the holiday air.
There will be two romances that spark at the home and end in engagements and there will be a Christmas miracle. That Christmas miracle was a lovely, unexpected happening for one of the couples of the group (although somewhat telegraphed to you from before the midpoint of the story) and, as Riley states in her notes afterwards, is an entirely possible event, not just as a Christmas miracle.
So three stars from me for the opportunity to visit with all these characters again. The plot itself is a bit meh, but I guess there's nothing wrong with Christmas treacle.
The problem for me is that I find those newsletters a bit boring and ditto this novella. Almost everybody from most of the books gets together at Adrian and Caroline's home (that's the Earl and Countess of Sarre, from THE PLAYER) for the holidays. We get to see how devoted all the couples still are and how loving to their children and how close all the families are to each other. That's nice, but not especially exciting.
We also have to endure a couple of mothers-in-law from hell. That would be Adrian's and Caroline's and they haven't yet reconciled themselves to Adrian and Caroline's very happy mesalliance. They, especially Caroline's mother, provide the only conflicts to be found in the book. Other than that, it's love, love, love in the holiday air.
There will be two romances that spark at the home and end in engagements and there will be a Christmas miracle. That Christmas miracle was a lovely, unexpected happening for one of the couples of the group (although somewhat telegraphed to you from before the midpoint of the story) and, as Riley states in her notes afterwards, is an entirely possible event, not just as a Christmas miracle.
So three stars from me for the opportunity to visit with all these characters again. The plot itself is a bit meh, but I guess there's nothing wrong with Christmas treacle.
December 22, 2020
Midwinter Magic is a novella that wraps up the highly enjoyable Rockliffe Series. Centring around a house-party thrown by Lord and Lady Sarre at Christmas, this is a wonderful festive treat and gets you into the Christmas spirit. There is merriment and gaiety all around, not to mention love in the air for two couples, and to top it all off a Christmas miracle.
I have hugely enjoyed the entire Rockliffe Series and would recommend it to any fans of historical romances. By now all the characters feel like old friends, such that it was lovely to spend more time with quite a lot of them. All my personal favourites featured, with Julian and Arabella's adopted children utterly stealing the show again.
It was nice to have more of Adrian and Caroline, who Riley hadn't focused so much on since the third book, and there were some features from some of the lesser characters in that book here too, with some family drama and tensions.
My absolute favourite part of this novella though was the focus on Amberley and Rosalind. They after all were the reason why I fell in love with this series to begin with in the first book and I thought it was lovely to come full circle with them at the end (though I'm now itching to go back and re-read The Parfit Knight).
If this is truly the last we see of these characters, then I couldn't have asked for a better ending, though perhaps some of them might still have some cameos in the spinoff Brandon Brother series. This was an utterly charming and heart-warming read, perfect for this time of year.
I have hugely enjoyed the entire Rockliffe Series and would recommend it to any fans of historical romances. By now all the characters feel like old friends, such that it was lovely to spend more time with quite a lot of them. All my personal favourites featured, with Julian and Arabella's adopted children utterly stealing the show again.
It was nice to have more of Adrian and Caroline, who Riley hadn't focused so much on since the third book, and there were some features from some of the lesser characters in that book here too, with some family drama and tensions.
My absolute favourite part of this novella though was the focus on Amberley and Rosalind. They after all were the reason why I fell in love with this series to begin with in the first book and I thought it was lovely to come full circle with them at the end (though I'm now itching to go back and re-read The Parfit Knight).
If this is truly the last we see of these characters, then I couldn't have asked for a better ending, though perhaps some of them might still have some cameos in the spinoff Brandon Brother series. This was an utterly charming and heart-warming read, perfect for this time of year.
December 20, 2020
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 because I love the characters.
What a delightful novella! The author calls it a wrap-up to her Rockliffe series (for Reasons) and who am I to argue with the author?
I had a smile on my face the entire time. What plot there is involves two romances and a Christmas wish. Otherwise, the author lets us participate in a joyful gathering of longtime friends. It was so warm and comforting to catch up with most of the couples from the previous books.
This is not the place to first meet these characters; for that you need The Parfit Knight.
This is where we say "Adieu".
What a delightful novella! The author calls it a wrap-up to her Rockliffe series (for Reasons) and who am I to argue with the author?
I had a smile on my face the entire time. What plot there is involves two romances and a Christmas wish. Otherwise, the author lets us participate in a joyful gathering of longtime friends. It was so warm and comforting to catch up with most of the couples from the previous books.
This is not the place to first meet these characters; for that you need The Parfit Knight.
This is where we say "Adieu".
October 13, 2021
Stella Riley has brought her fabulous and much loved Rockliffe series to an end with a delightful novella, which in my opinion, is best described as an epilogue to this compelling series. It’s worth saying here, incase any new reader of this author thinks otherwise, that this is not a standalone story. Not normally a fan of novellas, Midwinter Magic is the exception, for I loved every word of this magical little story. Ms. Riley took the opportunity to tie off a loose end which she did with her usual attention to detail and authenticity. Never one to cut corners, she can always be relied upon to check her facts carefully.
To go into too much detail would be to give the game away to fans and followers of Rockliffe and company, who have not yet read Midwinter Magic. But to summarise, the main characters of this series, who have all had their own books, Amberley and Rosalind (The Parfit Knight) naturally the magnificent Rockliffe himself, and Adeline, his duchess (The Mésalliance) Adrian and Caroline (The Player) Sebastian and Cassie (The Wicked Cousin), Nicholas and Madeleine (Hazard), and Julian and Arabella (Cadenza), have all been invited to a house party at Sarre Park, Adrian Devereux, the Earl of Sarre’s country seat. And as well as Adrian’s guests, we the reader/listener, are transported back to 1778 and treated to an authentic traditional Christmas party, complete with wassailers, kissing boughs, parlour games and dancing.
There are other guests too, Caroline’s grandpapa, Hubert Maitland, Lady Lily Brassington, and by this stage in the series, there are also seven children. To Caroline’s distress, there are some uninvited guests who have to be accommodated at the last minute - Caroline’s brash mother and her two younger half sisters. As usual Caroline’s mother’s social climbing antics cause much hilarity and are made all the more amusing by Stella Riley’s always evident wit and humour. And I’m so glad that Adrian’s close friend and major domo, Bertrand Didier, has been given a starring role this time, because I’ve always thought him a gem of a character since his first appearance in The Player Bertrand has had me giggling on numerous occasions with his outspokenness and irreverence, which is only accentuated by Alex Wyndham’s portrayal of the Frenchman in the audio books.
Alex Wyndham, who has performed all of Stella Riley’s books, has done an impressive job juggling so many characters and keeping their voices distinct and recognisable, especially when you consider Midwinter Magic is book seven in the series. Two voices in particular which constantly stand out for me in his performances are Rockliffe and Sebastian. Rockliffe - always urbane, utterly delicious, and giving off an aura of power in a voice which doesn’t need to be raised in order to be heard. His timing, such as his reply to a question put to him by Adeline on entering the breakfast parlour late one morning...
‘ I regret to say, my love,’ remarked Rockliffe lazily, ‘that you have missed the most entertaining breakfast I believe I have ever witnessed’...
... is, as always, impeccable with a quiet amusement that is far more entertaining because of its understatement. Then there’s Sebastian - the joker, never unkind, but whose character’s voice is perfectly pitched to portray the fun, charismatic man Stella Riley created in The Wicked Cousin; the amusing heckler who pipes up at just the right moment and can almost always deflect a difficult situation. But that’s just to name two, because Ms. Riley’s characters are all memorable. So, if you’ve read the rest of the Rockliffe series, but haven’t got around to Midwinter Magic please don’t miss this gorgeous epilogue, which, by the way, has two sweet and unexpected romances for good measure. And, if you haven’t yet read, but are in two minds about whether to tackle the seven books in the Rockliffe series then please do not hesitate - especially the audio versions - they’re stupendous. In the words of one reviewer... ’Stella Riley’s books make me feel happy’ and that seems like a good place for me to end this review.
To go into too much detail would be to give the game away to fans and followers of Rockliffe and company, who have not yet read Midwinter Magic. But to summarise, the main characters of this series, who have all had their own books, Amberley and Rosalind (The Parfit Knight) naturally the magnificent Rockliffe himself, and Adeline, his duchess (The Mésalliance) Adrian and Caroline (The Player) Sebastian and Cassie (The Wicked Cousin), Nicholas and Madeleine (Hazard), and Julian and Arabella (Cadenza), have all been invited to a house party at Sarre Park, Adrian Devereux, the Earl of Sarre’s country seat. And as well as Adrian’s guests, we the reader/listener, are transported back to 1778 and treated to an authentic traditional Christmas party, complete with wassailers, kissing boughs, parlour games and dancing.
There are other guests too, Caroline’s grandpapa, Hubert Maitland, Lady Lily Brassington, and by this stage in the series, there are also seven children. To Caroline’s distress, there are some uninvited guests who have to be accommodated at the last minute - Caroline’s brash mother and her two younger half sisters. As usual Caroline’s mother’s social climbing antics cause much hilarity and are made all the more amusing by Stella Riley’s always evident wit and humour. And I’m so glad that Adrian’s close friend and major domo, Bertrand Didier, has been given a starring role this time, because I’ve always thought him a gem of a character since his first appearance in The Player Bertrand has had me giggling on numerous occasions with his outspokenness and irreverence, which is only accentuated by Alex Wyndham’s portrayal of the Frenchman in the audio books.
Alex Wyndham, who has performed all of Stella Riley’s books, has done an impressive job juggling so many characters and keeping their voices distinct and recognisable, especially when you consider Midwinter Magic is book seven in the series. Two voices in particular which constantly stand out for me in his performances are Rockliffe and Sebastian. Rockliffe - always urbane, utterly delicious, and giving off an aura of power in a voice which doesn’t need to be raised in order to be heard. His timing, such as his reply to a question put to him by Adeline on entering the breakfast parlour late one morning...
‘ I regret to say, my love,’ remarked Rockliffe lazily, ‘that you have missed the most entertaining breakfast I believe I have ever witnessed’...
... is, as always, impeccable with a quiet amusement that is far more entertaining because of its understatement. Then there’s Sebastian - the joker, never unkind, but whose character’s voice is perfectly pitched to portray the fun, charismatic man Stella Riley created in The Wicked Cousin; the amusing heckler who pipes up at just the right moment and can almost always deflect a difficult situation. But that’s just to name two, because Ms. Riley’s characters are all memorable. So, if you’ve read the rest of the Rockliffe series, but haven’t got around to Midwinter Magic please don’t miss this gorgeous epilogue, which, by the way, has two sweet and unexpected romances for good measure. And, if you haven’t yet read, but are in two minds about whether to tackle the seven books in the Rockliffe series then please do not hesitate - especially the audio versions - they’re stupendous. In the words of one reviewer... ’Stella Riley’s books make me feel happy’ and that seems like a good place for me to end this review.
December 9, 2020
Really nice cherry on the top novella to finish the series. A Christmas house party where we spend a festive holiday with the couples from the earlier books. And we get two new romances.
And a really kick ass Christmas miracle that is a nice present for one of the couples and readers who have been following the series.
And a really kick ass Christmas miracle that is a nice present for one of the couples and readers who have been following the series.
December 16, 2024
Among all the festive treats on offer this year I doubt I will enjoy anything as much as I have enjoyed Stella Riley’s Christmas novella: “Midwinter Magic”. It has everything I look for in a story: warmth, wit, laughter, a touch of jeopardy, two lovely romances and a sprinkling of true Christmas magic.
The setting is Sarre Place, the home of Adrian and Caroline (see their story in “The Player”). They are holding a Christmas house party for their closest friends and family. It is truly delightful to meet again the characters from Ms Riley’s previous Rockliffe novels. They leap from the pages fully formed and a joy to watch. There are people from all generations: from Caroline’s gorgeous grandfather down to Vanessa Jane, Rockliffe’s adored daughter, not forgetting the Chalfont children, who are superbly drawn, enchanting characters.
There is a programme of entertainments drawn up by Bertrand Didier, Adrian’s best friend and major domo. These give rise to some very memorable moments: a riotous game of football on the beach, a visit to a castle; an impromptu concert given by the delectable Julian Langham and the soiree where all the guests perform “turns” for each other. I defy anyone not to be moved by young Tom’s tribute to his adopted father. There is so much well-developed action packed into the novella that it feels as rich as a full length novel.
Ms Riley writes such beautiful love stories, and we are lucky enough to have two in “Midwinter Magic”. It is lovely to see a mature couple come together in such a natural way. You can feel their trepidation at risking their hearts and cheer for their happy ending. The younger couple’s story is equally sweet. I love how Ms Riley’s heroes are always so wise and just a touch masterful but shaded also with a little unsureness – such attractive traits that make me fall in love with them just as the heroine does.
The introduction of Mrs Hayward and the Dowager Lady Sarre, Caroline and Adrian’s respective mothers, is a stark counterpoint to the warmth and joy of the rest of the novella. It underlines the truism that you can choose your friends but you can’t choose your family. The Dowager Lady Sarre, in particular, is a horror and it is a testament to his own character and the redeeming power of love that Adrian is as well balanced as he is.
As for the sprinkling of Christmas Magic, it is hard to say anything without giving too much away. It is woven through the novella and concerns the altruistic wishes of a kind little girl. The ending is richly satisfying and completes this superb valedictory to all the wonderful characters in Rockliffe’s world. It is sad to be saying goodbye to this world but a joy to know that I can go back to any of the seven novels in this cycle whenever I need a dose of warmly witty and delightful romance in the company of characters I adore.
The setting is Sarre Place, the home of Adrian and Caroline (see their story in “The Player”). They are holding a Christmas house party for their closest friends and family. It is truly delightful to meet again the characters from Ms Riley’s previous Rockliffe novels. They leap from the pages fully formed and a joy to watch. There are people from all generations: from Caroline’s gorgeous grandfather down to Vanessa Jane, Rockliffe’s adored daughter, not forgetting the Chalfont children, who are superbly drawn, enchanting characters.
There is a programme of entertainments drawn up by Bertrand Didier, Adrian’s best friend and major domo. These give rise to some very memorable moments: a riotous game of football on the beach, a visit to a castle; an impromptu concert given by the delectable Julian Langham and the soiree where all the guests perform “turns” for each other. I defy anyone not to be moved by young Tom’s tribute to his adopted father. There is so much well-developed action packed into the novella that it feels as rich as a full length novel.
Ms Riley writes such beautiful love stories, and we are lucky enough to have two in “Midwinter Magic”. It is lovely to see a mature couple come together in such a natural way. You can feel their trepidation at risking their hearts and cheer for their happy ending. The younger couple’s story is equally sweet. I love how Ms Riley’s heroes are always so wise and just a touch masterful but shaded also with a little unsureness – such attractive traits that make me fall in love with them just as the heroine does.
The introduction of Mrs Hayward and the Dowager Lady Sarre, Caroline and Adrian’s respective mothers, is a stark counterpoint to the warmth and joy of the rest of the novella. It underlines the truism that you can choose your friends but you can’t choose your family. The Dowager Lady Sarre, in particular, is a horror and it is a testament to his own character and the redeeming power of love that Adrian is as well balanced as he is.
As for the sprinkling of Christmas Magic, it is hard to say anything without giving too much away. It is woven through the novella and concerns the altruistic wishes of a kind little girl. The ending is richly satisfying and completes this superb valedictory to all the wonderful characters in Rockliffe’s world. It is sad to be saying goodbye to this world but a joy to know that I can go back to any of the seven novels in this cycle whenever I need a dose of warmly witty and delightful romance in the company of characters I adore.
December 30, 2020
What a lovely story. 💕 It was wonderful being around a lot of the characters from the Rockcliffe series. How I adored Ellie is this one. She is Julian and Arabella’s little girl. 😊
All of the dreamy men were present with their lovely ladies.
Ameberly and Rosalind ❤️
Rockcliffe and Adeline ❤️
Adrian and Caroline ❤️
Sebastian and Cassandra ❤️
Nicholas and Madeleine ❤️
Julian and Arabella ❤️
There was romance in the air and love matches will bloom. And ‘tis the season for a miracle. 💕
All of the dreamy men were present with their lovely ladies.
Ameberly and Rosalind ❤️
Rockcliffe and Adeline ❤️
Adrian and Caroline ❤️
Sebastian and Cassandra ❤️
Nicholas and Madeleine ❤️
Julian and Arabella ❤️
There was romance in the air and love matches will bloom. And ‘tis the season for a miracle. 💕
December 29, 2020
What a delightful story of Christmas cheer, family, friends, new love, and a long awaited miracle!! In all honesty... I was struggling to remember all the characters as it had been quite some time since having read this series (my memory is terrible) but after a while things began to click. This was a lovely addition to a wonderful series. Sadly though, it was not available in audiobook which would most likely have been narrated by the wonderful Alex Wyndham.
December 8, 2020
This book is a Christmas gift!
I have always found the beautiful families in this series exquisitely charming and reading this novella gave me the opportunity to share their lives one last time. Having read this, I want to reread the series once again.
The events in the story depict traditional holiday traditions, combined with the wittiest dialogue, new romances, heartfelt occurrences that had me crying more than once. What a gift this book is! I absolutely adored it, and was sad I finished it so quickly.
I have always found the beautiful families in this series exquisitely charming and reading this novella gave me the opportunity to share their lives one last time. Having read this, I want to reread the series once again.
The events in the story depict traditional holiday traditions, combined with the wittiest dialogue, new romances, heartfelt occurrences that had me crying more than once. What a gift this book is! I absolutely adored it, and was sad I finished it so quickly.
December 8, 2020
This was such a wonderful story. This series started with The Parfit Knight; it was fitting that it ended with the Amberleys. The series had to come to an end at some point, and this was the point. The characters were as I remembered them from previous books and I enjoyed meeting them again. Ms. Riley's prose was smooth as silk and easy to read. A couple of romances, some silliness, a few tears, and we say goodbye metaphorically speaking. I will always pick up one of her books and become reacquainted. And so I will. Highly recommended
December 10, 2020
This was just perfect - heartwarming, funny, a little sprinkling of Christmas romance and miracles. It was a meeting of old friends and characters who I have missed since I finished Cadenza. This series of books is one of my favourites, easily in my top 5- and at the ripe old age of 40 almost, Ive read a lot. I was thrilled when I heard a few months back that this Novella would be coming out in time for Christmas, and gave me a much welcome boost in these Covid times. If I am forced to make a criticism, it is that I was looking forward to meeting Aristide again and also my favourite Duke and Duchess don't get as much page time as I would have liked, but nonetheless I enjoyed hugely when they made an appearance. That final chapter had me in tears - bah humbug to anyone who felt it went beyond the bounds of possibility,( it is medically quite possible) it was a perfect resolution for a character who I adored, and whom I always felt deserved more. And Rockliffe's reaction, just heartbreakingly lovely. It just makes me want to read the series again from start to finish. The author has said this is a last goodbye to them all, but one must hope! Sad to finish the series, but so thankful for the journey. Bravo et merci!
December 9, 2020
Stella Riley is one of my most favourite authors and this Christmas visit to all my favourite characters in her Rockliffe series is a lovely reminder of how much I enjoyed their individual stories. The Novella provides its own drama and romance - she writes so well and the reader is immediately drawn into the story which moves along at just the right pace to keep you reading. Very good and great fun!
January 8, 2021
A lovely chance to revisit with the characters from the Rockliffe series. Plenty of seasonal fun and frivolity, two new romances, squabbling relatives, humour, some touching moments and a very satisfying conclusion which fans of the series will love.
The only drawback with this book, for me, was that having all these characters together meant not enough time spent with some of my favourites. Well, the obvious solution to that, listen to the series again - which I fully intend to do!
And although Ms Riley’s has made this her farewell to the series, dare we hope, as another reviewer once wrote, that one day we might see Vanessa’s story?
The only drawback with this book, for me, was that having all these characters together meant not enough time spent with some of my favourites. Well, the obvious solution to that, listen to the series again - which I fully intend to do!
And although Ms Riley’s has made this her farewell to the series, dare we hope, as another reviewer once wrote, that one day we might see Vanessa’s story?
December 31, 2021
It’s wonderful to end the year on such a high note with a seasonal read by one of my top HR authors, featuring all my favorite characters from the Rockliffe series. The ending made me sigh with happiness.
December 6, 2020
A Glorious joy of a book
Christmas, time of joy and occasionally miracles and this book has all of it. Loved the children's contributions to the festivities and the sweet romance involved. I also cried hard enough to use up several Handkerchiefs. This is a fitting conclusion to the Rockcliffe saga although I still have hopes of the occasional novella or cameo appearance of the cast of the series.
Christmas, time of joy and occasionally miracles and this book has all of it. Loved the children's contributions to the festivities and the sweet romance involved. I also cried hard enough to use up several Handkerchiefs. This is a fitting conclusion to the Rockcliffe saga although I still have hopes of the occasional novella or cameo appearance of the cast of the series.
December 7, 2020
Just perfect!!!
My favorite Christmas Novella! I have read all the books in the series and this was such a wonderful addition. I do not want to give anything away but if you are a fan of this book series this book will not disappoint! Heart warming full of Christmas cheer and some wonderful magic.
My favorite Christmas Novella! I have read all the books in the series and this was such a wonderful addition. I do not want to give anything away but if you are a fan of this book series this book will not disappoint! Heart warming full of Christmas cheer and some wonderful magic.
December 11, 2020
What a delightful finale to the Rockcliffe series. It was so good to spend time with all of the wonderful characters from the previous books again. I am sad to see this series conclude but realize all good things must come to an end. The happily ever afters in this novella are a joy. I love that Rockliffe got the last words and they were perfection. I, too, raise a toast to Daisy the goat!
December 6, 2020
Brava! To the esteemed author, my thanks
What a marvellous, joyous end to our friends in this series- I recommend the Rockliffe series to everyone who enjoys great stories, memorable characters and happy endings. I am sorry our journey has ended but it was a great adventure. Well done Stella
What a marvellous, joyous end to our friends in this series- I recommend the Rockliffe series to everyone who enjoys great stories, memorable characters and happy endings. I am sorry our journey has ended but it was a great adventure. Well done Stella
December 6, 2020
It’s a lovely little Christmas confection to finish off one of the all-time great romance series. Thanks, Stella Riley, for bringing all these lovely characters to life!
September 19, 2021
This is a magical book.
Its a short book, nowhere near her other lengthier novels. Its a wonderful epilogue that enables readers of the series to catch up with the lives of some beloved characters in the previous books.
I was particularly pleased to catch up with Julian and Arabella who are truly one of my favorite couples, and their three children, especially the adorable little Ellie.
There is a bit of romance for two couple who are secondary characters in the other books, one is Bertrand, the friend of Adrian and his heroine is Sylvia, the half sister of Caroline.
The other unlikely but cute older couple, is Mr Maitland, Caroline’s grandfather and her friend / sponsor, Lady Brassington.
Both romances were light hearted and a bit rushed since they occur over a Christmas holiday house party. Most of the angst comes from the disapproving mother of Caroline who is a pill. Though Caroline and Adrian deal with her appropriately.
There is a Christmas miracle, I wont give spoilers and its truly heartwarming. In the postscript of the author, she makes her case about fact being stranger than fiction.
Bravo Ms. Riley!
She is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! ❤️
Its a short book, nowhere near her other lengthier novels. Its a wonderful epilogue that enables readers of the series to catch up with the lives of some beloved characters in the previous books.
I was particularly pleased to catch up with Julian and Arabella who are truly one of my favorite couples, and their three children, especially the adorable little Ellie.
There is a bit of romance for two couple who are secondary characters in the other books, one is Bertrand, the friend of Adrian and his heroine is Sylvia, the half sister of Caroline.
The other unlikely but cute older couple, is Mr Maitland, Caroline’s grandfather and her friend / sponsor, Lady Brassington.
Both romances were light hearted and a bit rushed since they occur over a Christmas holiday house party. Most of the angst comes from the disapproving mother of Caroline who is a pill. Though Caroline and Adrian deal with her appropriately.
There is a Christmas miracle, I wont give spoilers and its truly heartwarming. In the postscript of the author, she makes her case about fact being stranger than fiction.
Bravo Ms. Riley!
She is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! ❤️
December 14, 2020
Lovely revisiting these characters
Love being able to read about these characters again,you need to read the previous books to fully enjoy this novella.
Love being able to read about these characters again,you need to read the previous books to fully enjoy this novella.
December 7, 2020
A satisfying finale to a wonderful series
Stella Riley has done an excellent job in reprising her characters from the Rockliffe series for their final send off. Particularly enjoyable escapist fare as we arrive at the close of this troubled year!
Stella Riley has done an excellent job in reprising her characters from the Rockliffe series for their final send off. Particularly enjoyable escapist fare as we arrive at the close of this troubled year!
December 20, 2020
Truly magic
For a novella this contains as much excitement as several entire novels. Heroes, villains, and a truly magic finale to warm the heart. And a chance to see all the characters from the Rockliffe novels again.
For a novella this contains as much excitement as several entire novels. Heroes, villains, and a truly magic finale to warm the heart. And a chance to see all the characters from the Rockliffe novels again.
March 8, 2022
Although cute in the two romances, neither really got me involved. The best thing about the book was finally getting Lady Amberley's issues resolved, something I had expected anytime during the six books that followed hers. The Christmas setting and all the games were fun, but the rudeness just didn't strike me as something that would have occurred during the early 1800's. Not public rudeness, at any rate. Even in this day and age, it would have been hard to swallow, and it certainly made me uncomfortable.
January 1, 2023
Audio Version-own on Audible
Narrator: Alex Wyndham
1778-Sarre Park-home of Adrian and Caroline
Rockliffe and Adeline
Sebastian and Cassandra
Julian and Arabella
Rosalind and Dominic
Nicholas and Madeleine
Everyone's here....plus a few extras to make for an interesting, heartwarming story. Of course, you can't have a Christmas reunion type gathering of all our Rockliffe series characters without the most important guy of all....none other than the Duke of Rockliffe. Cool and calm as usual with his wicked wit. This was a Christmas treat...thank you Stella Riley.
Narrator: Alex Wyndham
1778-Sarre Park-home of Adrian and Caroline
Rockliffe and Adeline
Sebastian and Cassandra
Julian and Arabella
Rosalind and Dominic
Nicholas and Madeleine
Everyone's here....plus a few extras to make for an interesting, heartwarming story. Of course, you can't have a Christmas reunion type gathering of all our Rockliffe series characters without the most important guy of all....none other than the Duke of Rockliffe. Cool and calm as usual with his wicked wit. This was a Christmas treat...thank you Stella Riley.
December 28, 2021
Ahhhhh…Lovely book to read over the Christmas holidays. Great to see most of the characters from the previous books and a wonderful ending to the series..which I think Stella has written just for me! 😃😃
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