Yuletide Treasure
by Andrea Kane
Part 4 of 5 stories in "A Gift of Love"

Rated 4.0
ISBN# 0-671-53661-3
$6.99 U.S.; $8.99 Canada
Reviewed 12/26/96 by Pam T.
Original Copyright 1995


Eric Bromleigh, seventh Earl of Farrington and uncle to his four year old niece, Noelle, has his hands full trying to keep Noelle out of mischief. She has lived with many families while he lives as a recluse at his estate. Each time she is returned to him he finds another family for her to stay with.

With Noelle's last return, though, Eric finds his list depleted of families and ends up requesting help from the Vicor. He needs a suitable governess to care for Noelle. And with the Victor assistance will come a substantial contribution to the church.

A complication exists when appearances would not allow Eric to live in a home alone with Noelle and her governess. A second problem is the fear that everyone has for Eric. His sisters death was such a shock to all and his former servants still pale with speaking of that time five years earlier.

With these complications, Eric raises his donation to the church and changes his request to that of a wife. One who must cut themselves off from all ties with her family to move to his home and care for Noelle.

During their wild discussion, Noelle leads herself and Fuzzy into yet more trouble only to be saved by Brigitte, the Vicor's granddaughter.

Without much persuasion, Eric gets Brigitte to agree to his plan. The Vicor protest madly, but Brigitte cannot say no to Eric, the main character in her childhood dreams.

From there it is only a matter of time before Eric sees the difference Brigitte has made in Noelle's behavior and the warmth she has brought into his home. He spies on their fun time together and before long the three become the happy family they are all craving.

"Yuletide Treasure" is a superb story written by Andrea Kane. Again, this is a new author for me and I felt much pleasure while reading her story.