- Table View
- List View
A Christmas Kiss
by Elizabeth MansfieldDuring the holiday season, a governess loses her heart to an earl with no intention of marrying again, in this Cinderella story set in Regency England. After defending her virtue by striking the besotted son of her employer, Miss Evalyn Pennington is discharged from her position under a cloud of scandal. With no place to go and no prospects for the coming year, the impoverished governess accepts an invitation from Jamie Everard, heir to an earldom, to spend the holidays at his family&’s estate. But Evalyn has barely settled in at Gyllford Manor when she catches the eye of Philip Everard, the fourth Earl of Gyllford—and Jamie&’s father. After his wife died, Philip vowed to never marry again, despite his sister&’s best efforts to reintroduce him to London society. Then, his son brings a guest home for Christmas. Is the lovely, intelligent Evalyn the woman to make his footloose son settle down at last? But why does Jamie treat Evalyn in such a cavalier manner? And what is Philip to do about the reigning beauty of London who has set her cap for him—and is about to set in motion a scheme that will have far-reaching consequences for them all? A witty and warm tale about morals, mores, marriage, and mistaken intentions, this classic Regency holiday romance introduces a woman who refuses to surrender her ideals, and a man in danger of losing the one thing he swore never again to give: his heart.
A Christmas Legacy (Christmas Novella #19)
by Anne PerryNew York Times bestselling author Anne Perry's nineteenth heart-warming Christmas novella.Gracie Tellman is preparing for Christmas with her husband and three young children when Millie Foster calls upon her. As a maid at Harcourt House, Millie is terrified that sinister goings-on, including the disappearance of food from the kitchens, will lead to her unfair dismissal, and she begs Gracie to investigate the situation.With the promise that she will be back in time for Christmas, Gracie takes Millie's place in the Harcourt household, never imagining the discovery she then makes. For the servants have been keeping a secret and their efforts are about to be rewarded in the most extraordinary way...A Christmas Legacy is a heart-warming festive mystery set in Victorian London from the pen of the New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry.
A Christmas Legacy: A Novel
by Anne PerryThomas and Charlotte Pitt&’s former maid takes a new job as Christmas approaches—but not everyone in the household may survive the holidays in this tension-filled novel from bestselling author Anne Perry.&“Perry&’s Victorian-era holiday mysteries [are] an annual treat.&”—The Wall Street JournalAfter leaving her position with Charlotte and Thomas Pitt to get married, Gracie thought her days as a maid were behind her. But when her good friend&’s daughter, Millie, turns up on her doorstep just before the holidays, frantic because things are going missing from the kitchen in the household she serves, Gracie knows she has to find out what is happening. Millie, whose mother died years before, can&’t risk being accused of theft and getting thrown out on the street, with no character references for a new position.So Gracie takes on Millie&’s job herself, claiming Millie is sick and needs a few days to recuperate. At first, it seems that all is normal in the household, even if the couple&’s elderly granny keeps entirely to her bedroom upstairs. But Gracie begins to realize that Granny is suffering from neglect—and rather than helping her, the husband and wife have decided she isn&’t dying fast enough.
A Christmas Message: A Novel
by Anne PerryIn the spirit of the season, New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry presents readers with the gift of another holiday mystery, taking them to the Holy Land for an intriguing and miraculous journey of discovery. The year is 1900, and Victor Narraway is giving his wife, Vespasia, an unforgettable Christmas present--a trip to Jerusalem. Vespasia is enchanted by the exotic landscape of Palestine, and charmed by a fellow traveler the Narraways meet at their hotel in Jaffa. But when the man is murdered over a torn piece of ancient parchment he was taking to Jerusalem, Victor and Vespasia risk their lives to finish his mission and deliver the puzzling document to its home. Pursued by a shadowy figure with evil intent, they embark on a dangerous yet ultimately enlightening pilgrimage to the holy city, where the mysterious message on the parchment may finally be revealed. Rich in suspense and wonder, A Christmas Message is at once a breathtaking adventure story and a poignant meditation on faith and spirituality. Praise for the Christmas novels of Anne Perry "Perry's Victorian-era holiday mysteries [are] an annual treat."--The Wall Street Journal A Christmas Escape "Rivals the classic murder mysteries of Dame Agatha Christie . . . The suspense is built up so well."--Bookreporter A New York Christmas "A thoroughly enjoyable mystery set against the wonderful historical backdrop of 1904 New York City at Christmastime."--Library Journal (starred review) A Christmas Hope "Very much recommended . . . a wonderful story."--Historical Novel Review A Christmas Garland "In Anne Perry's gifted hands, the puzzle plays out brilliantly."--Greensboro News & Record A Christmas Homecoming "Could have been devised by Agatha Christie . . . [Perry is] a modern master."--Pittsburgh Post-GazetteFrom the Hardcover edition.
A Christmas Message: A gripping murder mystery for the festive season (Christmas Novella #14)
by Anne PerryA mysterious stranger sends the Narraways on a dangerous pilgrimage... A Christmas Message is a tantalising festive tale from Anne Perry, the master of Victorian crime. Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Ann Granger.Christmas 1900. Victor Narraway, Thomas Pitt's former boss, and his new wife Vespasia are travelling by train from Jaffa to Jerusalem. Although enjoying their time together and the interesting people they meet, Vespasia soon becomes concerned that someone is watching their every move.When one of their new acquaintances is found murdered, the only clue is a mysterious piece of parchment written in a foreign tongue, and a message imploring Narraway to continue the stranger's quest. Sensing its importance, Narraway and Vespasia decide to fulfil their dead friend's wish.Continuing to Jerusalem with the parchment in hand, they quickly find themselves embroiled in danger. With Vespasia's fears suddenly realised and a watcher on their trail, will Narraway and Vespasia's fates follow that of their friend or can they make it to Jerusalem unscathed? What readers are saying about A Christmas Message: 'As always I was lost in the extraordinary events''It is an extraordinary story and so gripping''Five stars'
A Christmas Miracle for the Railway Girls: The festive, feel-good and romantic historical fiction book (The Railway Girls Series, 6) (The railway girls series #6)
by Maisie Thomas'Heartwarming historical fiction ... The perfect stocking filler for fans of Nancy Revell, Daisy Styles and Margaret Dickinson' Eastern Daily Press__________________The sixth heartwarming, feel-good instalment in the much-loved Railway Girls series!Manchester, 1942. There are surprises in store for the railway girls this festive season...When Cordelia's daughter Emily falls for a young chap who doesn't meet the approval of her father, Cordelia is reminded of her own first love - a love that she has never forgotten.Mabel is determined to get to the bottom of a spate of local burglaries. Her heart is in the right place as she sets out on a quest to clear her friend's name, but there will be unforeseen consequences.It's nothing short of a miracle when Colette returns to Manchester. But it's not going to be easy for her to keep living the life she once knew, and an impossible situation lies ahead.There will be more than one storm for the railway girls to weather but with the friendship and support of one another, there's hope that all will be well by Christmas...Readers LOVE the Railway Girls:'Make yourself a cuppa and find a comfy spot on the sofa because you are not going to be able to put this down''I simply cannot wait for the next one - I am hooked!''Gives a vivid picture of women's lives in wartime Manchester''Dramatic, intriguing and sprinkled with plenty of wit and heart''It's just like catching up with old friends'
A Christmas Odyssey
by Anne PerryIn her beloved Christmas novels, Anne Perry brings readers both the authentic Victorian charm and the nail-biting suspense that have made her Thomas Pitt and William Monk tales bestsellers for a generation. Though rife with intrigue, these special seasonal stories beam with the blessed light of the holiday. Ten days before Christmas, as an icy wind cuts through London, wealthy James Wentworth feels not joy but grief. His reckless son, Lucien, has been lured into a deadly world of drugs and wild passion. Wentworth's only hope, he believes, is his old friend Henry Rathbone, who volunteers to search for the prodigal son. Rathbone knows nothing of the sensation-obsessed underworld where Lucien now dwells, but he acquires two unexpected new companions who do: Squeaky Robinson, a reformed brothel-keeper who now works in Hester Monk's medical clinic, and Crow, a mysterious slum doctor who turns no one away, however undeserving. Slowly this odd trio gathers clues--about Lucien's mad infatuation with a beautiful woman named Sadie, and about Shadwell, the ruthless man who owns her and, like the Devil, never lets go of one of his own. Rathbone, Squeaky, and Crow even welcome into their little band a most valuable recruit: young Bessie, a teenager whose courage holds fast even in the depths of the slum. And so they set forth on their odyssey into London's dark streets, on a mission whose outcome they cannot begin to guess.Anne Perry's novels are supreme masterpieces of suspense, and A Christmas Odyssey ranks with the very best. The days leading up to Christmas may prove to be fraught with challenges, but 'tis the season for comfort and joy and miracles.From the Hardcover edition.
A Christmas Odyssey: A festive mystery from the dark underbelly of Victorian London (Christmas Novella #8)
by Anne PerryAs Rathbone sets forth on an odyssey into London's dark streets, the outcome of his mission he cannot begin to guess... Anne Perry writes a festive story of hope and redemption emerging from the depths of Victorian society in the seasonal novella A Christmas Odyssey. Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Ann Granger.'A bite-sized mystery that could be fitted in after your Christmas lunch' - Daily Telegraph1864, and on a bitter December night in Victorian London, one man longs for a Christmas miracle. The city is preparing for the holidays yet James Wentworth is unable to focus on anything other than the disappearance of his wayward son, Lucien. In desperation, he turns to his old friend Sir Henry Rathbone for help.Rathbone finds assistance in the shape of reformed criminal Squeaky Robinson and the enigmatic Doctor Crow, and as the group's investigations take them deeper into the seedy underbelly of the capital, they uncover a squalid world of illicit pleasures and a trail that leads them closer to the man they seek. But as they get nearer to their quarry, tales also begin to emerge of Lucien's violent tendencies, his consuming obsession with a dangerous young woman and the disturbing Shadow Man. Can they bring Lucien home alive and, if so, will it be a grave mistake for all concerned? What readers are saying about A Christmas Odyssey: 'The book is pacey and full of atmosphere and tension''An enjoyable romp through the underworld''Five stars'
A Christmas Promise: A Novel
by Anne PerryAnne Perry's Victorian Christmas novels have attracted as many faithful readers as her two New York Times bestselling series featuring investigators Thomas Pitt and William Monk. A Christmas Promise is the seventh in Perry's holiday series, and it will surely bring joy to this special season.Three days before Christmas, in the freezing slums of London's East End, thirteen-year-old Gracie Phipps encounters Minnie Maude Mudway, who is only eight, alone, and determined to find her friend Charlie.However Charlie is no ordinary companion: He is a donkey who belonged to Minnie Maude's Uncle Alf. Gracie is shocked to learn that only the day before, someone brutally murdered Uncle Alf and made off with his rag-and-bones cart and the beloved beast who pulled it. Now, come hell or high water, Minnie Maude means to rescue Charlie-and Gracie decides to help. But the path that Uncle Alf had taken to his death was not his regular route, and in his cart were not just the usual bits of worn silver and china but also, the children are told, a dazzling golden box. What its contents may have been no one can say, for, like Charlie and the cart, it too has vanished.Uncertain where their four-legged friend may be, the children are drawn into an adult world far beyond their innocent imaginings. And in a shop gleaming with beautiful objects, they recruit an unexpected ally: Mr. Balthasar, who warns them that the shining prize may be a Pandora's box of evil.Set in the Victorian world where Anne Perry reigns supreme, A Christmas Promise culminates in a radiant finale that will remain with you long after the final page is turned.From the Hardcover edition.
A Christmas Promise: A Novel
by Mary BaloghA love that cannot be bought or sold proves to be the greatest gift of all, in this heartwarming classic that demonstrates once again why New York Times bestselling author Mary Balogh is among the most celebrated authors of historical romance. Weddings are supposed to be joyous occasions--especially when a couple seems as well matched as Randolph Pierce, Earl of Falloden, and his bride-to-be, Eleanor Transome. Ellie brings to the marriage a vast dowry, while Falloden, though distant, is handsome, tremendously desirable, and possessed of a title most young ladies can only dream of sharing. Yet Ellie is not most young ladies. She knows that she must honor her dear father's dying wish for her to wed the proud earl, but she dreads a lifetime in a union without love--and how can Falloden claim to love her when he married her only for her fortune? As Christmas descends upon the Falloden manor, the warmth of the season may yet melt away the trappings of duty and wealth, leaving behind only a man and a woman destined for each other's arms.From the Paperback edition.
A Christmas Promise: A unforgettable yuletide mystery in the snowy streets of Victorian London (Christmas Novella #7)
by Anne PerryA young girl is searching for the truth behind her uncle's death. Can she solve the mystery before the Christmas bells toll? Set in the Victorian world where Anne Perry reigns supreme, A Christmas Promise culminates in a radiant finale that will remain with you long after the final page is turned. Perfect for fans of C. J Sansom and Harriet Smart.'[Perry] writes with detail that invades the senses' - Lincoln Journal StarThree days before Christmas, in the freezing slums of London's East End, thirteen-year-old Gracie Phipps encounters Minnie Maude Mudway, who is only eight, alone, and determined to find her friend Charlie. However Charlie is no ordinary companion: He is a donkey who belonged to Minnie Maude's Uncle Alf. Gracie is shocked to learn that only the day before, someone brutally murdered Uncle Alf and made off with his rag-and-bones cart and the beloved beast who pulled it. Now, come hell or high water, Minnie Maude means to rescue Charlie-and Gracie decides to help. But the path that Uncle Alf had taken to his death was not his regular route, and in his cart were not just the usual bits of worn silver and china but also, the children are told, a dazzling golden box. What its contents may have been no one can say, for, like Charlie and the cart, it too has vanished.Uncertain where their four-legged friend may be, the children are drawn into an adult world far beyond their innocent imaginings. And in a shop gleaming with beautiful objects, they recruit an unexpected ally: Mr. Balthasar, who warns them that the shining prize may be just a Pandora's box of evil... What readers are saying about A Christmas Promise: 'You feel you are there in Victorian England with all the smells, sights and sounds that accompany the story-telling''Very atmospheric, entertaining, well written and just that bit different''Five stars'
A Christmas Resolution: A Novel (Christmas Novella #19)
by Anne PerryNew York Times bestselling author Anne Perry's eighteenth enthralling Christmas novella. When Celia Hooper discovers that her dear friend Clementine is to marry widower Seth Marlowe - a man with a sinister past - she calls upon her husband, Detective John Hooper of the Thames River Police, to help her find out what really happened to Seth's first wife several years ago. Rumour has it that she killed herself and Seth's daughter ran away to live on the streets but no one seems to know the truth.Then Seth accuses Celia of sending him blackmail letters and it quickly becomes clear that she is not the only one trying to stop him from marrying Clementine. With Christmas fast approaching, lines are blurred, relationships are tested and the past won't stay buried for ever . . . A Christmas Resolution is an enthralling festive mystery set in Victorian London from the pen of the New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry.
A Christmas Resolution: A Novel (Christmas Novella Ser.)
by Anne PerryA smitten woman is about to marry a dangerous man—unless Detective Hooper and his new wife, Celia, can prevent it—in this wickedly tangled holiday mystery from bestselling author Anne Perry.Detective John Hooper, William Monk&’s right-hand man at the Thames River Police, is blissfully happy in his new marriage to Celia, the cousin of a victim in one of the river police&’s recent murder cases. Celia wants the same happiness for her good friend Clementine, who&’s just announced her engagement to Seth Marlowe, a member of her church. Christmas is nearing, and this should be extra cause for celebration, but when Marlowe begins receiving threatening letters about his first wife&’s death, it becomes clear that he is far from the devout man Clementine thought he was. In his rage, Marlowe accuses Celia of sending the letters, claiming she wants to ruin his engagement to Clementine. At a loss as to how to defend herself, Celia enlists Hooper to investigate the letters&’ claims, and what he finds makes her desperate to show Clementine the truth about her soon-to-be husband.But Celia herself has not always been truthful, especially not during the murder trial following her cousin&’s death. How can she be believed now, when she lied on the stand? Especially when Marlowe knows that she did, and could use it against her. This Yuletide season finds love and faith put to the test—and Celia&’s and Clementine&’s lives on the line.
A Christmas Return (Christmas Novella #15)
by Anne PerryA CHRISTMAS RETURN is the 15th novella in the festive series by Anne Perry, the queen of Victorian crime.As the festive season approaches, Charlotte Pitt's grandmamma, Mariah Ellison, is facing Christmas alone. When she receives an unexpected gift, memories are sparked of a Christmas in Haslemere long ago, when her beloved friend Cullen Wesley died and a local villager was brutally murdered, with no killer brought to justice.The unsolved case has resurfaced and Cullen's grandson, Peter, begs for Mariah's help to solve the crime that led to his grandfather's death. Mariah can't resist a friend in need and she returns to Haslemere to investigate the murder and heal old wounds. But evil still lurks in the picturesque village and she'll need all her wits about her to see that justice is done.A Christmas Return is the enthralling new festive tale from the pen of Anne Perry, the master of Victorian crime.
A Christmas Return: A Novel
by Anne Perry’Tis the season of giving—and with this wonderful book, New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry shares a brand-new holiday mystery filled with bygone relationships and hidden secrets. As Charlotte Pitt’s grandmother Mariah Ellison finds herself investigating a long-unsolved slaying, it becomes clear that grappling with intrigue and foul play runs in the family. A festive Christmas package left on Mariah’s doorstep contains an ominous present, sparking memories of a twenty-year-old murder that shattered her friendship with the victim’s widow. Though the gift is a bitter reminder of that tragic time, in the spirit of the season Mariah travels to Surrey in hopes of reconciling with her estranged friend and solving the crime that drove them apart. On arrival, Mariah joins forces with the murdered man’s grandson, a sleuth in his own right who’s discovered promising evidence as well as a suspect. But Surrey’s picturesque hills conceal dark doings and shocking revelations that could make the holiday anything but calm and bright. Decked with intrigue and trimmed with Yuletide spirit, A Christmas Return is a holiday treat wrapped in the glorious storytelling talents of the reigning master of Victorian mystery.Praise for A Christmas Return“This compact little gem, [Anne] Perry’s fifteenth Christmas novella, demonstrates her proficiency in writing Victorian-set mysteries. . . . The atmosphere of close-knit village life in the 1890s feels pitch-perfect, from the homeliness of residents’ holiday decor to the gossip that spreads like a dreadful stain. The characterization is superb, and the work’s short length is perfect for the material. The spirit of the Christmas season is cleverly evoked through the underlying theme that it’s never too late for reconciliations and second chances.”—Historical Novels Review (Editors’ Choice) “Perry’s many fans will enjoy another winning Victorian-era mystery set during the holidays.”—Library Journal “Exceptional . . . Perry unobtrusively incorporates insights about the true meaning of the season into the engrossing plot.”—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
A Christmas Reunion
by Susanna FraserGabriel Shepherd has never forgotten his humble origins. So when he discovers a war orphan at Christmastime, he resolves to find a home for her-even if that means asking help from the very family who found and raised him, only to cast him out for daring to love the wrong woman.Lady Catherine Trevilian has spent five years poring over the British Army’s casualty list, dreading the day she sees Gabe’s name. She’s never forgotten him, and she’s never forgiven herself for not running away with him when she had the chance, though she’s agreed to a marriage of convenience with a more suitable man.When Gabe returns home on Christmas leave just days before Cat’s wedding, a forbidden kiss confirms their feelings haven’t been dimmed by distance or time. But Cat is honor-bound to another, and Gabe believes she deserves better than a penniless soldier with an orphan in tow. How can Cat reconcile love and duty? She must convince Gabe she’d rather have him than the richest lord in all of England...27,000 words
A Christmas Revelation (Christmas Novella #16)
by Anne PerryA daring rescue reveals the true meaning of Christmas...The queen of Victorian crime, New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry returns with the 16th novella in her festive crime series.Christmas is coming and the streets of London are full of festive cheer. As young Worm returns to his home at the Portpool Lane clinic, he encounters the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and, spellbound, he follows her until she is dragged away by two evil-looking men. Convinced that she is in grave danger, Worm begs Squeaky Robinson to help him track her down. But Elouise is embroiled with dangerous criminals who want information that only she can tell. They will stop at nothing to get what they want and, with Christmas day fast approaching, Worm and Squeaky must conjure up a daring plan to help Elouise before it is too late.Praise for Anne Perry's Christmas novellas: 'A bite-sized mystery that could be fitted in after your Christmas lunch' Daily Telegraph
A Christmas Revelation: A Novel (Christmas Novella Ser.)
by Anne Perry“Perry’s Victorian-era holiday mysteries [are] an annual treat.”—The Wall Street JournalIn this intriguing, uplifting holiday mystery from bestselling author Anne Perry, an orphan boy investigates a woman’s kidnapping—and discovers there’s more at stake than a disappearance. It wouldn’t quite be Christmas without a holiday mystery decorated with all the Victorian trimmings, as only New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry can render it. Now the tradition continues as mayhem is once again found under the mistletoe, and intrigue stalks the cobblestone streets and gaslit parlors of old London Town. Formerly a river urchin living on the banks of the Thames, nine-year-old Worm has never experienced a family Christmas. But thanks to a job at Hester Monk’s clinic in Portpool Lane, he’s found a makeshift family in kindly volunteer Miss Claudine Burroughs and curmudgeonly old bookkeeper Squeaky Robinson. When Worm witnesses the abduction of a beautiful woman by a pair of ruffians just days before Christmas, he frantically turns to Squeaky for help. A one-time brothel owner, Squeaky knows the perils of interfering in nasty business, but he can’t bear to disappoint Worm—or leave the boy to attempt a rescue on his own. What neither of the would-be saviors expects, however, is that the damsel in distress already has her dilemma well in hand . . . and is taking steps to bring her captors to justice for crimes far worse than kidnapping. But the rogues, as cunning as they are deadly, are not to be underestimated. The aid of cynical old Squeaky and hopeful young Worm just might make the difference between a merry triumph over evil and a terrible yuletide tragedy.
A Christmas Scandal (Christmas Ser.)
by Jane GoodgerIn her latest romance, Jane Goodger weaves an unforgettable tale of a woman who thinks she's lost everything--until a little Christmas magic reunites her with the one man she could never forget. . . Dashing, debonair, and completely irresistible, Edward Hollings has all of Newport buzzing--and to Maggie Pierce's surprise, she alone has caught his eye. But when the handsome earl returns to England without proposing, a devastated Maggie knows she must forget him. Life only gets worse for Maggie, as all her dreams of happiness and love come crashing down around her. When Maggie receives an invitation to go to England for the Christmas birth of her dear friend's baby, she accepts--vowing to keep her devastating lies and shameful secrets from the one man she has ever loved. Edward vowed he'd never marry, but he came dangerously close with Maggie. She's beautiful, witty, indescribably desirable--and Edward can't forget her. When Maggie visits mutual friends for Christmas, Edward can't stay away. In fact, he finds himself more attracted to her than ever--a desire fueled even more by Maggie's repeated snubs. With the love he never thought he'd find slipping away, Edward is determined to make Maggie his own, no matter what the cost. . .
A Christmas Secret: A Novel
by Anne PerryDecember 1890:Eleven days before Christmas, Clarice and her husband, Reverend Dominic Corde, arrive in the idyllic village of Cottisham to watch over the Reverend Wynter's flock, whilst he takes a richly deserved holiday. With its village green and thatched cottages, Cottisham is a far cry from the bleak London parish they've left behind. But Clarice can't shake the feeling that the welcoming smiles of the locals are hiding dark secrets. When a shocking discovery confirms her suspicions, Clarice can't resist investigating. Could it be that the Reverend is not all that he seems? Are there black sheep in the fold?One thing is certain: Clarice is determined to uncover the truth. Even if it means putting her own life in danger.
A Christmas Secret: A Victorian mystery for the festive season (Christmas Novella #4)
by Anne PerryA shocking discovery seems to indicate that all it not as it seems in an idyllic country village... Anne Perry's A Christmas Secret is a compelling Victorian mystery set in the English countryside. Perfect for fans of C. J. Sansom and Jacqueline Winspear. 'Short but highly enjoyable, with Perry's finely drawn period descriptions providing an engrossing backdrop' - Good Book GuideDecember 1890: Eleven days before Christmas, Clarice and her husband, Reverend Dominic Corde, arrive in the idyllic village of Cottisham to watch over the Reverend Wynter's flock, whilst he takes a richly deserved holiday.With its village green and thatched cottages, Cottisham is a far cry from the bleak London parish they've left behind. But Clarice can't shake the feeling that the welcoming smiles of the locals are hiding dark secrets.When a shocking discovery confirms her suspicions, Clarice can't resist investigating. Could it be that the Reverend is not all that he seems? Are there black sheep in the fold? One thing is certain: Clarice is determined to uncover the truth. Even if it means putting her own life in danger. What readers are saying about A Christmas Secret: 'A delightful, gentle read to prepare you for Christmas... What more could a reader want?''This is such a warming novel. The characters really shine amid the setting of a charming English village. A lovely mystery/love story''I look forward to Anne Perry's Christmas novellas. This one is wistful and melancholic. A good book to curl up with on a winter's afternoon'
A Christmas Story: Behind the Scenes of a Holiday Classic
by Caseen Gaines&“The definitive book about Bob Clark&’s 1983 classic holiday film. Filled with untold stories, unreleased photographs, and much more&” (Parade). This ultimate guide to everything fans want to know about A Christmas Story shares the inside scoop behind the film&’s production, release, and unlikely ascent to the top of popular culture. From Jean Shepherd&’s original radio broadcasts to Bob Clark&’s 1983 sleeper hit film and beyond, A Christmas Story has become a beloved Yuletide tradition over the last three decades. This is the untold story of the making of the film—and what happened afterwards. Ralphie Parker&’s quest for a Red Ryder air rifle didn&’t end with the movie&’s release; the tale inspired massive VHS sales, a Broadway production, and a mountain of merchandise. Complete with rare and previously unreleased photographs, now fans of the movie and film buffs alike can lean all they didn&’t know about the timeless classic. &“Entertainingly and exhaustively sheds new light on a movie that everyone loves and thinks they know inside and out. Engaging and packed with enlightening anecdotes, it&’s a perfect companion to the movie.&” —Richard Crouse, author of 100 Best Movies You&’ve Never Seen and Raising Hell: Ken Russell and the Unmaking of The Devils &“Caseen Gaines&’ comprehensive, insightful, and beautifully illustrated look at Ralphie Parker and his family will make perennial viewings of this beloved comedy an even richer and more entertaining tradition.&” —Jeremy Kinser, Queerty &“An iconic and brilliant part of Americana is brought back to life through Caseen Gaines&’ book. I couldn&’t stop smiling while reading it!&” —Noah Levy, cohost of VH1&’s The Gossip Table
A Christmas Tree in the White House
by Gary HinesWhen President Theodore Roosevelt announces that there will be no White House Christmas tree because cutting down trees is against his conservation efforts, his youngest sons, Quentin and Archie, are deeply disappointed. They can't imagine Christmas without a tree. The two determined boys enlist the help of their aunt and sneak a small tree into their bedroom. When the president finds out, he takes the boys to see the chief forester in hopes of teaching them a lesson. But the chief forester surprises them all with his answer. "Isn't that bully!" says the president, and the boys shout, "Hooray for the tree!" Gary Hines and Alexandra Wallner bring this story, based on actual events, to life in a light-hearted text matched with bright, cheerful art. Young readers will enjoy this humorous episode in history and relish the children's "victory" over their father. At the end of the book, there is a photograph of the Roosevelt family and an author's note on Roosevelt, his children, and the real Christmas tree.
A Christmas Vanishing: A Novel
by Anne PerryCharlotte Pitt&’s clever grandmother investigates the sudden disappearance of her dear friend in this chilling holiday whodunit by New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry.Mariah Ellison, Charlotte Pitt&’s grandmother, accepts her longtime friend Sadie&’s gracious invitation to spend Christmas with her and her husband, Barton, in their picturesque village. But upon arrival, Mariah discovers that Sadie has vanished without a trace, and Barton rudely rescinds the invitation. Once Mariah finds another acquaintance to stay with during the holiday season, she begins investigating Sadie&’s disappearance. Mariah&’s uncanny knack for solving mysteries serves her well during her search, which is driven by gossip as icy as the December weather. Did Sadie run off with another man? Was she kidnapped? Has someone harmed her? Frustratingly, Mariah&’s questions reveal more about the villagers themselves than about her friend&’s whereabouts. Yet in the process of getting to know Sadie&’s neighbors, Mariah finds a kind of redemption, as she rediscovers her kinder side, and her ability to love. It is up to Mariah to master her own feelings, drown out the noise, and get to the bottom of what occurred, all before Christmas day. With the holiday rapidly approaching, will she succeed in bringing Sadie home in time for them to celebrate it together—or is that too much to hope for?
A Christmas Vanishing: Christmas Novella 21 (Christmas Novella #19)
by Anne PerryNew York Times bestselling author Anne Perry's twenty-first heart-warming Christmas novella.When Mariah Ellison arrives in the picturesque village of St Helen's to spend the festive season with her old friend Sadie Alsop, she is shocked to discover that Sadie has vanished. Her husband has no idea where she has gone or when she will return but, thankfully, Mariah has other friends in the village who are willing to offer their hospitality.Once settled, she begins a rigorous search for Sadie that is fuelled by malicious gossip as harsh as the winter snow. Has Sadie run away? Has she been kidnapped? Has someone harmed her? And how long can she survive if she has no shelter from the bitterly cold weather? As Christmas Day approaches, Mariah is increasingly determined to solve the mystery of Sadie's disappearance and bring her home in time to celebrate Yuletide together . . .