#tess farraday

[maddie-grove]

Little Book Review: Star of Wonder

Authors: Jo Beverley, Alice Alfonsi, Tess Farraday, and Kate Frieman.

Publication Date: 1999.

Genre: Romance novella Christmas anthology (three historical, one contemporary.

Premise: According to legend, one of the Magi gave his disfigured daughter a magical necklace that helped her unite with her true love. At the turning of a new century, it sometimes appears to help a lady in a jam: a would-be nun dealing with a Viking invasion and an awkward crush on her widowed friend, a jilted spinster who gets lost on a beach, an English heiress who gets tricked into babysitting some kids in a cowboy town, and a grieving philanthropist who doesn’t understand computers.

Thoughts: I don’t have a great history with Christmas romance novella anthologies. Part of the issue is the awkward pacing and plot of the average romance novella, especially pre-2010. Then there’s the schmaltz factor, although it’s usually tolerable compared to, say, a Christmas Hallmark Movie. This anthology wasn’t better than most--it’s extremely dated, and most of the stories are kind of janky--but it was a lot more wacky, which I appreciated.

Now, one by one:

Day of Wrath by Jo Beverley: Set in 999 CE, in the midst of a Viking attack on an Anglo-Saxon kingdom, this novella is the best of the bunch, with a vivid setting and a decently structured plot. Unfortunately, there’s some really nasty discourse about the hero’s “cowardly” late wife, who committed suicide under ambiguous circumstances after surrendering the castle in his absence. The subplot romance between the heroine’s sister and a Viking who raped her is also bad.

Starlight Wedding by Alice Alfonsi: This is a very silly story, but I enjoyed it. In late 1799, the heroine accidentally wanders onto the hero’s seaside estate from another part of the country (by magic? Not clear), and the hero assumes she’s a sex worker (???) and thinks that gives him license to be rude and lecherous. He also unreservedly hates his adorable orphaned eight-year-old nephew, the only family he has left thanks to a boat accident plus the French Revolution, and contemplates robbing him of his inheritance so he can hire the heroine as his mistress (despite her saying that’s never going to happen). He eventually gets over his hatred, which of course is rooted in grief, but, I don’t know, not everyone turns into an Eva Ibbotson villain due to grief. I can’t even be mad at him, because the whole thing is so stupid.

Last Kiss at the Loving Cup Saloon by Tess Farraday: I don’t actually remember a lot about this story! It’s 1899, and there’s a hot cowboy named Joe who’s tricked into looking after the illegitimate children of a railroad baron after their maternal aunt abandons them. Then he tricks Katherine, the railroad baron’s prissy wife-by-proxy-marriage, into helping him look after the kids. It’s kind of cute, I guess, but forgettable and clumsily written.

Joy to the World by Kate Frieman: As an artifact of Y2K anxieties, this story is interesting. As a romance...look, it already had a strike against it as a contemporary romance, and I lost what interest I did have when I figured out that it was a romantic suspense novella about rich people and FBI agents, rather than a more down-to-earth story. The reveal is also way too complicated, and I had more positive feelings towards the villain (pity) than the protagonists (eye-rolling indifference).

The unifying concept works pretty well, though.

Hot Goodreads Take: There aren’t a lot of reviews of this anthology, probably because it was published back when “uses the Internet for fun” was unusual enough to be noteworthy personality trait. Joy to the World seems to be a common least-favorite, though.

[winterfrostlovetriangle]

Old Friends

Part 3

Summary: What will happen when Tessa and Tom finally meet after 10 years? Will they reconcile or decide there is too much bad blood bad between them? 

Warnings: Angst and Fluff

Masterlist

Part I | Part II | Part III

*gif not mine

‘Whoever the winner is, must be daft’ I thought. I felt people watching me and turned to Marcus who was smiling. 

“You won, T. Go get your award, woman!” 

Shocked, I jumped out of my seat and made my way up the aisle. 

‘Don't trip’ ran through my mind like a mantra. I managed to make it up the steps without incident and walked toward the presenters. The sounds of clapping and cheering were overwhelming. ‘I can’t believe it!’

“Congratulations, love. You deserve it!” They each said hugging me in turn. “Just breathe, you’ll be fine.”

I stepped up to the mic and gave my speech. I gave the usual thanks to cast, crew, and agent. Right before the music started, I looked straight at the camera and said, “Dad, this is for you and Mum. I couldn’t have done it without you. We did it!” I was then ushered backstage and left alone. Looking around, I had no idea where to go. I felt so lost. Thankfully, I noticed a man coming towards - a crew member - at least I hoped he was. 

“First time, eh?” He asked in a thick cockney accent. 

“That obvious?” I chuckled. Suddenly feeling more at ease in his presence. 

“It’s alright, love. I have seen many an actor look lost their first few times since I’ve worked here. And trust me, there have been quite.” He winked. “You’re Miss Farraday, ain’t ya? Um, excuse me, aren’t you.” 

“Yes, but please call me Tessa. No formality needed with me.” I took a moment to study the man. He was about 6 foot tall and average build. His eyes were a dark blue, almost gray hue, and his salt and pepper hair was styled close to his head. The wrinkles sprinkled throughout his face and hands made him look wise. He reminded me of my father, just slightly older. He had a friendly and warm nature that again made you feel almost instantly at ease. 

“I am a huge fan of yours, Miss, uh, Tessa. Both my wife and I am. We’ve seen most of your plays and we were so excited to actually see you in a film,” he praised. I blushed, not used to such adoration from anyone other than my father. 

“O...oh, thank you.”

“I hate to sound like a crazy fan, but would mind signing this?” Sheepishly holding out a pen and a piece of paper. 

“Really? You want MY autograph?” Disbelief laced in my words. He nods. “Alright, but I don’t have -“ he cuts me off by turning around and offering his back, causing me to giggle. 

“Go ahead, dear. I don’t mind.”

I smiled and stepped forward, balancing the paper on my new table. “Who do I make it out to?�� I questioned. 

“Oh, where are my manners? My name is Jack and my wife’s name is Helen.” She is going to be thrilled!” Jack said excitedly. 

I scribbled a small note and lightly tapped him, signaling I was done. Jack turned around and smiled at the paper. 

“I’m going to frame this. One day this signature will be a household name and probably worth something.”

“That is sweet, Jack, but I doubt it,” I said shrugging of his comment. Noticing he is looking behind me, I pause. 

“Alright, we have been given the go-ahead to go back. If you will come with me, milady” he says taking on a posh British tone now. Jack bows and offers me his arm. 

“Thank you, kind sir.” I curtsy back and place my hand on his. We talk a bit more while he leads me further backstage, stopping at a set of large oak doors. Jack opens one for me to walk through and then follows me in. 

“Sadly, Tessa, it is time for me to go back to my post. It has been an honor.” He says. 

“Must you?” Anxiety once again creeping back in. “It would be lovely to have a friend here that I know to chat with.”

I wish I could, but I have a job to attend to.” Jack once again looks behind me. “Besides, it seems there is someone who wishes to speak with you.” Confused, I follow his gaze. My eyes land on the figure in question. I turned quickly back to Jack, heat rising in my face.

Jack gives me a knowing smile. “Hmm, it seems you two already know each other.” Definitely not a question. 

“Erm, yes we do. It’s been nearly a decade since we last talked...I behaved badly and messed up our friendship,” I begin. A new set of emotions threaten to overtake me. 

“Well, let me give a bit of advice then.” He puts his hands on my shoulders and continues. “By the way he is looking at you now, I’d say he remembers you and wants to talk.” My eyes widen, but he shushes me. “My dear, take it from someone who has been around a lot longer and talk to him. Explain what happened, and I believe he will understand and forgive.” He says smiling.

I sigh in defeat. “Okay, I will.”

“Good girl. Now, I must be off.” Jack extends his hand, but I step closer and give him a hug. 

“Thank you,” I whisper. “Goodbye.”

He bows once more and is gone. I am standing by the door considering just giving up the after-party and going home to pajamas and Netflix. I hesitate. ‘I’ve earned this’ I say to myself. ‘I will at least try and enjoy the night.’ I turn to face the room, noticing the man in question is deep in conversation with another actor, I quickly make my way to the bar. I chose a seat on the far side again so I can take in my surroundings. With my ginger ale in hand, I survey the room. The walls are cream-colored, adorned with rich panels of red tapestries - not too gaudy though. Two magnificent chandeliers hang from the ceiling lighting the space nicely. A few crystal sconces add to the soft, welcoming atmosphere. In the middle of the room is a polished wooden dance with several tables and chairs flanking it. A few more golden accents finish off the look. I turn my attention to the people - fellow actors and actresses clearly enjoying their night. I smile to myself thinking how crazy it is that I have finally become part of the world. It is scary and thrilling, and I love it. 

“Seems our play-acting as children has finally paid off, eh?” A silky, deep voice startles me out of my dreaming. I stiffen as I realize who is behind me. Deciding to stay facing forward, I pray that he will just walk away. 

However, he seems to have different ideas. The actor sighs and takes the seat next to me. “Come on, Tess. I can’t stand to see my best mate still mad at me.” Mischief evident in his tone.

My mind flashes to that day in the park, and I laugh to myself. 

“Please, Tess. Look at me.”

I shut my eyes, taking a breath. Jack’s words playing in my head. I release the breath and slowly turn to face my old friend. 

“Hi.” Tom offers.

His beautifully, handsome face is perfectly serene, as I begin to study the man in front of me. I start with his eyes, which are still a deep blue and seem to sparkle in the dim light. His gorgeous cheekbones that just beg to be caressed, have filled out nicely as he’s grown. I take in his once wild locks have been cut short into a stylish do that befits him. The blond curls have been replaced with a ginger tint similar to my own, that I quite like. And finally, his lips. Hmm...those thin pink lips. The only word I can use to describe them is kissable. Totally lost in thought, I feel myself biting my own lips to keep from moaning, instead, a sigh escapes. I just want to touch and kiss him everywhere...my mind starts to run a tad wild. ‘Stop!’ My brain shouts. ‘Shame on you for thinking such things!’ I gasp, rousing myself out of my impure thoughts. I feel heat enveloping my body, suddenly feeling nauseous. I shut my eyes in embarrassment and stand to leave, but my legs betray me. An arm catches me and holds up. 

“Whoa there, love. You alright?” Tom asks. I look up at him and see concern etched on his face. 

“I’m fine, Tom. Thanks. Just been quite a night; got a bit overwhelmed by all the excitement.” I lied. Tom sets me down, gently pulling my chin up so he can inspect me. His eyes narrowed a fraction, not quite sure he believes me. He sits down again. 

“Really, I’m okay,” I say offering him a smile. “I just need to sit.” Without thinking, I place my hand on his to reassure him. Bad move. Sparks fly, but before I can move, Tom grabs my hand in a firm hold. His thumb rubs along the back of my hand in a comforting manner. This time I don’t resist and simply enjoy his warmth. 

“Seems you can still read my mind,” he chuckles. 

“Guess so,” I mumble. “I’m so sorry, Tom!” I blurt out. “I’m sorry for what happened...f- for what I did to you. I ruined our friendship and let HER come between us.” Venom thick in my voice. “I hope you can forgive me. Though if you say no, then I completely understand. I just, I…” trail off.

Tom cuts me off by running his other thumb across my lips, quieting me instantly. “Do you ever stop talking?” He quips. 

My eyes widen at the gesture. He moves to my cheek, bringing the rest of his hand to caress it. I leaned into his hand, lost in the tenderness of his actions. I closed my eyes and gave an almost inaudible sigh. Tom must still have heard it because he brought his other hand up to completely cup my face. Once again, losing myself in the sensation of his skin on mine, I take a deep breath in through my nose. I am suddenly overwhelmed by the smell of this enchanting man - a spicy, woodsy scent mixed with the smell of the Tom I grew up with. 

‘How I’ve missed him,’ I thought to myself. Finally; it dawned on me where we were, and remembered that we were not alone. I pulled back from his grasp and ducked my head to hide my blush. 

“Sorry,” I mumbled again. Hearing nothing, I stole a look at Tom only to find the tenderness of his eyes be replaced by hurt and rejection. ‘Crap.’ My chest tightened at the realization I had caused my friend pain yet again. I opened my mouth only to shut it immediately. I couldn’t breathe - I needed air. I quickly got up and fled to the nearest exit. I was met with a cool breeze. Shivering, I made my way to a nearby bench and plopped down. Tears fell. I sobbed as the emotions from the past ten years and the events of the night finally hit me. I felt something being placed over my shoulders. I didn’t look up; I couldn’t. The bench dipped slightly as Tom sat down beside me. (Even when I hurt him, he is the perfect gentleman and friend.) Without a word, he pulled me to him and stroked my back until I was done crying. 

“I...it’s been a-awhile since you’ve done this,” I hiccuped. “I forgot how nice it feels to be comforted by you; I’ve missed it. You don’t know how many times since Uni I have wished we were still in touch.” I stopped myself. Tears threatening again. 

“I’m sorry about your Mum, Tess. I tried reaching out to you but...I’m so sorry, love. Tom kisses my temple, his lips lingering there. I pulled back to look at him. He pulled out a handkerchief and dried my eyes. “There, good as new.” He smiled and bopped my nose affectionately. 

‘Liar!’ I returned the smile knowing full well how awful I actually must look. We stared at each other for a minute before I brought my hands up to cup his bearded face. My own thumbs returning the tender act; loving the feeling of finally touching him. Tom’s eyes fluttered closed clearly enjoying the moment too. He quickly scrunched his eyes tighter and asked the one question I had been dreading. 

“Why?” He whispered. Opening his baby blues, he looked directly at me. “What happened, T? Why did you turn your back on me?” I could hear the emotion in his voice. 

I gave a defeated sigh and brought my hands to rest in my lap. “It all started the day you two met.” 

“Clarissa?”

“Yeah, her. I saw the look in your eyes when you helped her up - you were smitten. You know she fell in front of you on purpose? She decided to change tactics since you didn’t take any notice of her. And like the bloody gentleman you, you fell right in her trap. After that, you wouldn’t shut up about her and kept inviting her to hang with us. It was infuriating!” I laughed. “She hated me, and the feeling was definitely mutual. She was taking my best friend away from me.”

“That’s why you backed away because you didn’t want to be a third wheel?” Tom asked. 

“Sure?” I hesitated, looking at him. From his expression, I knew Tom knew I was lying. “Fine. I guess it doesn’t matter now. Clarissa took every opportunity to put me down and to make sure I knew I was being replaced.”

“But-“

“Trust me, a woman can speak volumes with just a look. It can either be a compliment or a teardown. I was just tired of fighting. Most of my life consisted of me being bullied. So I distanced myself. Not standing up to Clarissa was my first mistake,” I told him. “You could have come to me; I would have set her straight.” He argued. “My mistake was not fighting for you.”

“You can’t always protect, love.” I smiled at Tom. “It was my turn to change things, but I didn’t.”

“But why did you tell me to leave that day after graduation?”

“Because I was hurt and jealous, and angry with myself. Especially after seeing the two of snogging in the common area - and under our tree no less! It hurt, Tom. I berated myself all through the ceremony, that you could never feel the same way about me that I felt about you.” I looked away, not able to hold Tom’s gaze. 

“Tess,” he began. 

“And then took it out on you. I was feeling pretty low already since my parents weren’t there, and then seeing you two...it was just too much. And when you came to check on me, I felt guilty and pushed you away. Then my dad called and - and...yeah” I finished. 

“Tessa,” Tom said more firmly. I shook my head knowing what he wanted. He grasped my chin bring it up to look at me. Our eyes finally met. I tried to hold back tears again. “How did you feel about me?” He asked. 

“I came to find you before the ceremony to tell you how I felt. I - I came to tell you that I loved you. Ha, that I had bloody fallen in love with my best mate. But found you kissing my nemesis.” I sighed. “And if you tell me that it was an accident and she cornered you, I think I’ll punch you.” 

“Fine, I won’t tell you that,” he mused. “But I will tell you that I dumped her afterward because I was in love with another girl.” 

“Let me guess, Ruby?” I joked. 

“No, you goose,” he huffed. “I had fallen in love with my best friend!”

“Haha, wait what?” My eyes widened, I searched his face for any hint of jesting. I was met with a serious expression. “Really?” I breathed. 

“Yes, you,” Tom said softly before grabbing my face again so I couldn’t look away. “I had been since we were in middle school, but didn’t realize just how much until you stopped coming around. I was going to tell you that day but…”

“I didn’t give you the chance. Oh, Tom! I’m...so sorry!” I cried. 

“Would you stop apologizing?” He sighed, brushing away the tears that had escaped. 

All we could do was stare at each other. Time seemed to slow. Tenderness and love came back to Tom’s eyes. He looked down at my lips and quickly back up to my eyes. He nervously licked the corner of his mouth, before pulling me forward to connect our lips. The kiss was sweet and brief - too brief - but enough to set off fireworks in my heart. Tom pulled away, searching my face for any hint of hesitation. 

“May I kiss you again?” He asked shyly. 

“Please do,” I replied as my arms snaked around his neck, while his hands moved to encircle my waist. 

He brushed his lips against mine before capturing them in a passionate kiss. Tom nibbled my bottom lip causing me to moan. Taking full advantage of my open mouth, he pushed his tongue in to dance with my own. It felt like heaven! We parted for some much-needed air and rested our foreheads against each other. 

“I will forgive you, on one condition.”

I bite my lip nervously but nodded. 

“That you go on a date with me...tomorrow.” 

“I would love to, Tom.” I smiled. 

He sighed in relief. “I love you, darling,” he moaned; leaning in to kiss me again.

I love you too, Thomas!”