There were a few stories that were okay (and "okay" is generally what I expect from this type of anthology), several I skipped, and several with repetitive plots. (Also many, many typos, which I also expect from this type of anthology. The worst in this case was all the times they used "Tatiana" instead of "Titania." 🤦‍♀️) My favorite was probably "A Prince in the Pantry" by May McGoldrick because the prince in question is Persian and the woman he ends up wandering through London with is a gentlewoman who now has to work for a living because her father is in debtor's prison, so that provided some different perspectives than you usually see. Also interesting to discover that "May McGoldrick" is a pen name for Nikoo and Jim McGoldrick, and Nikoo is of Iranian ancestry. ( )

A Midsummer Night’s Romance

One magical masquerade ball,
The event of the season.
Love is in the air,
Fifteen couples’ lives will change
As you, the reader, watch.

I have only read a few of the stories so far but am enamored and eager to read more. I have decided the BEST way for me to enjoy these stories are to indulge in one at a time over a period of time. Perhaps reading a bit before bed or while soaking decadently in the tub with a tasty beverage.

There are authors I have read and know I love and others I am eager to befriend as I read about the couples they have created to be at this enchanted society gathering. I am sure there will be gorgeous costumes, music, dances, food, flirtation and much more as I enjoy pages filled with delightful surprises.

After reading of a foreign prince meeting the perfect woman and of a couple given a second chance to find their happily ever after, I am ready read the next story in this anthology when I head upstairs to run the bathwater, climb into the tub, and escape into this collection of delightful stories.

Thank you to author Erica Ridley for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars ( )