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The Earl’s Christmas Pearl

I know we shouldn’t judge books by covers but I took one look at the gorgeous cover of The Earl’s Christmas Pearl and thought, “A) I want that dress, B) I also want that suit, and C) yep, I’m definitely reading it.” Luckily for me, this cover didn’t lead me astray and I enjoyed most of this sweet Christmas novella about a duke’s daughter and a grumpy Welsh earl with a Welsh corgi (who should’ve definitely been on the cover. Come on, Avon art department!).

What’s the story about? There’s not much plot but it’s still fun. Grumpy earl who needs love and Christmas cheer so they won’t be grumpy anymore (well, at least not to their partner)! Aristocratic and unassuming heroine who yearns to fall in love! So much holiday decorating (holly and ribbons and trees, oh my)! Forced proximity via snow! Kissing lessons to provide joy to curmudgeon earls! Meddling mothers who want their children to get married!

If I had to use a metaphor to describe this novella, it would be this: me snuggled in my sloth-climbing-a-candy-cane holiday sweater and sipping oversweet peppermint hot chocolate while Bing Crosby croons from an old-timey radio and the cat tries to jump on the Christmas tree (I do not own an old-timey radio, but you grasp my point). The Earl’s Christmas Pearl is the epitome of an ideal Christmas romance to me, and its festiveness made it feel as though I was experiencing all of my favorite parts of the holiday.

However, it’s also a lot of fluff and almost no angst, which is where the story weakens for me. There is nothing wrong with an excess of gooey marshmallow fluff; I just don’t think I was in the right mood for it. I’m the type of reader who requires some relationship conflict that makes me a little worried for their future HEA. And if there isn’t enough conflict, I get bored. As a result, something crucial seemed missing by the time I finished. But if you’re in the mood to curl up by the fireside and treat yourself to a festive and fluffy novella, then I promise that The Earl’s Christmas Pearl does exactly what it says on the Christmas cookie tin.

– Aarya

A duke’s daughter. An irrestible earl. And an energetic Corgi named Mr. Shorty. What more could you want in a Christmas novella by Megan Frampton?

It’s Christmastime in London, and Lady Pearl Howlett is eagerly ready for the festivities—until her family goes off to their country estate…accidentally leaving her home alone! But she’s not dismayed. Rather, she’s thrilled to do exactly what she wants. Unfortunately, this daughter of a duke doesn’t know how to do anything.

The Earl of Llanover has come to London to take refused in his godmother’s townhouse, free to be as awkward and grumpy as he wants. With his pet Corgi, Mr. Shorty, for company, Owen Dwyfor is ready for a quiet holiday away from his mother and sisters who would have him married off. That is, until his godmother’s neighbor, Lady Pearl Howlett comes barging in to his solitude.

After some reluctance, the two come together for a joyous—and steamy—Christmas they won’t forget.