Once Upon a Magical Night: A Midsummer’s Night Ball by Various Authors

On By TracyIn Anthology, Georgian Era (1714-1837), Historical Paranormal/Fantasy, Paranormal / Fantasy, Regency Era (1811-1820), Romantasy, Time Travel, Tracy's Reviews, Victorian Era (1837-1901)Leave a comment

Once Upon a Magical Night: A Midsummer's BallOnce Upon a Magical Night: A Midsummer’s Ball by Amanda Mariel

Tracy’s Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Series: Anthology

Release Date: June 24, 2026

This anthology has five new novellas by some of my favorite authors, each with a bit of magic and a happy ending:

Entrapped by Enchanted Desire by Dawn Brower: Lady Rosina wants freedom. Anton Marcus, Duke of Sinclair, demands control. But when an enchanted midsummer invitation traps them inside Puckton Castle, desire, truth, and meddling fairies may force them to choose love. 3.5 stars

When the Dawn Found Us by Amanda Mariel: Rosalind Bennett is swept into magical Puckton Castle, where guarded Adrian Vale, Duke of Ashbourne, tempts her heart amid fairy mischief, stolen kisses, and one enchanted midsummer night that demands a choice by dawn. 3.5 stars

Loved in a Dream by Jane Charles: Lady Polina St. Martin is promised to another, but dreams of adventure. Lord Benjamin Cartwright, Viscount Amesbury, is ready for marriage—just not love. When a magical ball draws them together, destiny may rewrite every rule. 4 stars

A Bewildering Interruption by Ramona Elmes: Lady Bianca Tartley is sensible, agreeable, and certain she has no taste for unnecessary risks. Edmund Knight is ruthless, guarded, and one day away from the revenge that has ruled his life. When magic draws them together, leaving may become the last thing either of them wants. 4 stars

A Rhyme of Fanciful Dreams by Tabetha Waite: Lady Julia Perry seeks freedom for one forbidden night. Frederick Ellis, Earl of Napleton, longs to escape his haunted past. At a mysterious Midsummer’s Ball, passion feels like magic—but will sunrise make their love vanish like a dream? 3.5 stars

Overall, this collection of novellas was a fun read, but it wasn’t quite as connected and cohesive as I was expecting. Based on the prologue, I thought it was going to be five stories all at the same ball – but that is not the case. That is fine, but it was a bit jarring as I was reading and expecting one thing yet getting a completely different era and magical interaction. Each story was well written, had likable characters, a few kisses, a bit of magic and finally a happy ending.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *

 

A Bitter Cut by Anna Lee Huber

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Historical Mystery, Part of a Series, Regency Era (1811-1820)Leave a comment

A Bitter Cut (Lady Darby Mystery, #14)

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Lady Darby #14
Publication Date: 6/23/26
Period: Georgian – 1833
Number of Pages: 384

This author has delivered yet another outstanding historical mystery. When you devour a 384-page book in a single sitting, you know you’ve found something special! The characters are engaging—even the ones you’re meant to dislike—and the mystery keeps you guessing right up to the final reveal.

Kiera’s brother, Trevor, has been courting the daughter of a prosperous manufacturer, and the best part is that the affection is mutual. Hoping to spend more time getting to know the family, Kiera and Gage, along with Lord Gage, invite them to a house party that also includes several of Lord Gage’s political associates.

From the moment the Birnams arrive, Kiera and Gage realize it is going to be a very long week. Mr. Birnam is an utterly despicable man, Mrs. Birnam is disagreeable and outspoken, and their son, Jemmy, is sullen and uncooperative. The only pleasant members of the family are Matilda, Trevor’s beloved, and Miss Portia Whitlock, Mr. Birnam’s capable secretary.

Kiera and Gage certainly have their hands full this time around. Between managing the unpleasant Birnams, entertaining Lord Gage’s political cronies, keeping the house party running smoothly, and trying to support Trevor’s romance, they have precious little time to devote to a murder investigation. Unfortunately, the crime must be solved before the guests begin departing.

This is an excellent addition to the series, featuring a well-crafted mystery, a lovely countryside setting, and a varied cast of memorable characters. The story is beautifully paced and superbly executed. Bravo to the author!

I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

Happy Reading!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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