Lady Bess

by Claudy Conn

Bess Saunders has fallen in love. He is big, he is charmingly masculine, and his Scottish accent sends her reeling with very unmaiden-like desires.

Having inherited his mother’s English home and title, Earl of Dunkirk of Scotland is considered a prize catch by the haute ton. He knows one day he will have to marry to carry on his name, but he wants a wife who ‘understands’ they will each go their own way after she gives him an heir - a marriage of convenience.

Lady Bess does not fit into those plans. How could she? She is exquisite, yes, but she is also an innocent who expects faithfulness. He won’t ruin an innocent, and yet, he can’t get her out of his head.

All this time, and right in their midst, evil hovers. Although Bess doesn’t look for it, she finds it - and Bess is not your average, simpering female. She takes on danger and mayhem like she does everything else: full throttle.

Adventure ensues as we travel with Bess through romance and the battle of her life

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Ebooks, Regency, Adult

197 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was an ok read, it was a free ebook so it is worth it's price. I skim read most of this novel as it was evident early on that it was a typical romance novel with nothing original or that interesting.

There was a few things that annoyed me:
> If the POV is going to change it needs to be clearly indicated or the way the transitions were written needs improvement.
> By far the most annoying thing was the main male characters accent. I can imagine a Scottish accent for myself without having to read dialogue with misspelt words. I understand the author was trying to convey the accent but this is not an effective way to achieve the result. It is distracting, annoying and slows the reader down. Also if you insist on spelling do not as "doona" for his dialogue then PLEASE do not have a character called Donna! I had to double check every time to confirm if he was talking about Donna or saying do not.

[Vivian · Rating 3 out of 5]

So it was refreshingly short and didn't drag on due to any annoying misunderstandings. Also, the heroine was intelligent enough and didn't make any horrible rash decisions or let her emotions rule her (and consequently make you want to punch her in the face). The only negatives were that I just wasn't all that into it; I didn't really get why the characters were so amazed with each other... and then one big drawback? One short juicy scene. Meh. It was alright.

[Rebecca Graf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes it is hard to fit into a society when you are one that likes to break the rules. Lady Bess finds herself chaffing at the restraints that keep her from being herself - wild and full of adventure. It doesn't help when a Scottish lord enters the scene and tempts her beyond her control.

This was a pleasant romantic read with just a hint of mystery and suspense. The plot was well done as the story moved from each main characters' point of view giving the reader insight into their minds. So the reader knows the lord is interested and falling in love before he even knows. I almost wanted to smack him as he found ways not to marry someone like Lady Bess but a more experienced woman who took on lovers. Sorry, that makes no sense. Just like a man!

I have to say that the end of the book seemed kind of rushed and tied up too easily. It felt like I had been waiting with baited breath for them to come to their senses for them to and suddenly the story is over. Wish there had been more at the end.

The cover hints at explicit scenes. There are not as many as you might think and most of it is left up to your imagination. This is a sensual romantic story.

Note: I purchased this book on my own with no expectation from the author for a positive review.

[Dawn Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can always depend on Claudy to deliver one hell of a story. Her writing is top notch and her story telling will take you back in time with ease.

Lady Bess has it all. Mystery, suspense, action, lust, passion and romance. The combination of all these make for an explosive read.

I always fall in love with her male hero's. They are always so yummy :)

John of Dunkirk has every quality you would want in a man. Loved his accent. So sexy Makes me wish he was real LOL I wanted to jump into my kindle and steal him from Bess hahaha

Bess is a smart, beautiful young lady. She is witty and very likeable. I loved how she was proper in every way but she still had a naughty side to her as well.

These characters had smoking hot chemistry. I thought the addition of Donna and Robby added to the story too. I thoroughly enjoyed the banter between the two. They had me laughing so hard!

I just wish it didn't end so quickly but then again I have that problem with all of Claudy's books because I get so engrossed into the world she creates I never want it to end.

Amazing read!

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

*spoilery*

The second Lady Elizabeth Saunders sets eyes on the wealthy Scottish Earl of Dunkirk her world is suspended. He’s the one, she knows it with every fibre of her being but rumour has it he’s a rogue and he's almost taken, so why does he flirt so outrageously with her? How can she protect herself. Does she want to?

The Earl likes his bachelor life just as it is thank you very much. A harmless flirtatious dalliance with Bess is no big deal after all he has no designs on her virginal person even if he cannot stop thinking about her. What he’s really looking for is a marriage of convenience, an heir and the return of his bachelor lifestyle but evil is about to wreak havoc on the best laid plans.

Bess's confusion and the Earl's honour provides the sexual tension. Nice too.

Nothing new here in the world of historical romance but I liked the authors writing style in Taffeta and Hotspur and in this one too.

[Virginia · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is incomprehensible. Not only is the formatting of the ebook terrible so that you have no idea where you are or why you are there - I couldn't tell whether I had started reading the book or if I was reading a synopsis of the book.

It was really bad.

I just can't hang with bad formatting and bad writing.

[Merisha28 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Bess by Claudy Conn
Print Length: 197 pages
I bought this book on amazon.

My Review~
This author has a way with writing! I love her writing style! It wasn't as fast paced as I would liked but it was a great book nonetheless. The author's books are amazing. I can't wait to read more of her books. I love the interactions between the characters and who doesn't love a swoon worthy man! I love the banter between the characters and the dialog. Historical books usually don't capture my fancy but this one did.




Amazon Book Description~
Bess Saunders has fallen in love. He is big, he is charmingly masculine, and his Scottish accent sends her reeling with very unmaiden-like desires.
Having inherited his mother’s English home and title, Earl of Dunkirk of Scotland is considered a prize catch by the haute ton. He knows one day he will have to marry to carry on his name, but he wants a wife who ‘understands’ they will each go their own way after she gives him an heir—a marriage of convenience.
Lady Bess does not fit into those plans. How could she? She is exquisite, yes, but she is also an innocent who expects faithfulness. He won’t ruin an innocent, and yet, he can’t get her out of his head.
All this time, and right in their midst, evil hovers. Although Bess doesn’t look for it, she finds it—and Bess is not your average, simpering female. She takes on danger and mayhem like she does everything else: full throttle.
Adventure ensues as we travel with Bess through romance and the battle of her life.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Bess by Claudy Conn
Lady Elizabeth of Saunders, better known as Lady Bess, wants to marry for love not convenience. Her heart knows the man she wants, unfortunately it’s someone who enjoys his bachelor life. This young woman decided to go for what she wants and do whatever it takes to get her man and make him fall in love with her.

The Earl of Dunkirk is from Scotland but has inherited his mother’s English home and title. Making him a prime piece for those of the ton. His plan is to marry someone for an heir and then continue to go his own way, as if he were still a single man. Lady Bess does not fit into those plans. He won’t ruin an innocent or get involved with someone who may want more. So why can’t he get her out of his head?

There's more then romance between these two members of the ton. Evil villains are lurking about with plans of their own. Lady Bess has accidentally stumbled into their plans, unwelcome. Good thing she’s not your normal simpering female when faced with danger and mayhem. Another adventure from the mind of Claudy Conn to take you down the rough road to romance and the battles along the way.
**Sexual content
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is one of the newer releases for Claudy Conn. This particular one follows the characters Lady Bess and The Earl of Dunkirk. He is a confirmed bachelor who must marry and therefore wants a marriage of convenience so he can go on his merry way. She is waiting for the love of her life and finds the Earl to be that man. We get to be in the minds of both these characters as they begin to understand their feelings for one another. There is additional intrigue in that there is a little boy who is kidnapped and Lady Bess believes she knows where he is and goes after him. Once he is rescued they must make sure he stays rescued for the danger comes close to home for this boy. Another danger is that there is another lady who has her eye set on the Earl and plans to do whatever it takes to marry him.

To read more reviews, visit my blog at: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/

[Anna Salamatin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Author never disappoints me. I know as soon as I see her name that the story will be amazing!!!
This historical romance has mystery, intrigue and a few surprises thrown in which kept me reading to the very end.
Lady Bess is not your typical shrinking violet by any means. She has real presence, a mind of her own and beauty. All of which doesn't go unnoticed by John, the earl of Dunkirk. We also meet Donna & Robby, Bess's dearest friends. Together they are drawn into a deadly plot when Bess sees something she shouldn't have. But there is more going on here than even they don't know about. ...and all throughout, the sexual tension between Bess & John builds until even I wanted to push them together.
We are so sure that the hero saves, and gets the girl, but how cool is it when the girl gets to return the favor?

[Steph at Starry Night Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can always count on Clady's books to be full of strong characters that I always ending falling in love with, and Lady Bess did exactly that.
Bess Saunders is one strong willed women and does not take no for an answer. She will just go and to it anyway and Bess has her eye on the Earl of Dunkirk of Scotland who is naturally a rogue (and what a sexy one at that.) Lady Bess does not fit into his plans. She's innocent who expects faithfulness and he won’t ruin an innocent.
What a wonderful love story filled with action and suspense. Lady Bess is a great read for those who love a strong character and a great story. I really loved the fact that Lady Bess took things into her own hands and how out going she was. This is another must read by Claudy Conn!

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like most women I am a fan of accents and well Dunkirk has one and my oh my, "Ye are very generous, lass. Ravishing am I? And so I wish I could be, so long as it pleased ye." Sometimes I get the feeling Bess and Dunkirk aren't just talking about horses, "that shouldn't be a problem. Bold Tim is quite the gentleman, skilled, experienced, and he will know just how to approach her, and unlike other stallions, he won't hurt her when he is done," he said in a low, seductive note." Dunkirk is so honest, "M'darlin' lass, please put this on, for the truth is, I doona have any control of m'self when I am with ye." I liked this book of course I do like my occasional historical romances as paranormal, and NA sometimes get old so it's nice to change up the scenery.

[Cheri · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying the characters in this book so quickly. Let's be honest, a free Kindle book in the "bodice ripping" genre can be a lot of fun to read, but the characters usually don't endear themselves to the reader.

I loved the banter between Bess and the earl. It was lively, fun and even somewhat realistic. That Bess behaved more like a woman of our times and that is what attracted the earl to her was great. I love strong willed women characters, especially in period romance novels where it is almost never seen.

Definitely recommend this for a light summer read or to heat up a cold winter night. A lot of "slow build" moments with a bit of sex but not too over the top.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Bess by Claudy Conn
Lady Bess grabs you from the beginning to the end. I had stopped reading historical romances but am so glad that I read this one. (I love all Claudy Conn's books especially her paranormal romances). Lady Bess is a brave, innocent heroine and she falls for John, Earl of Dunkirk, who is naturally a rogue (but such a hunk of a rogue). Needless to say the "fun" begins. You'll have to read this book for yourself and believe me, you will just love this one! If I could give this book a "10" I really would. This book made me want to read more of historical romances again. Claudy Conn has a unique writing style and her books grab you from start to finish!!

[W.H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I absolutely love the Scotish burr of the earl! I have had a blast visualizing these characters as they banter back and forth. Lady Bess is a young lady with HEART! The earl... Land Sakes he is somewhat of a rogue, but he is a lovable character.

This story is full of twists and turns, steaminess, and intrigue. I would have finished it earlier if life cooperated a bit more. I so enjoy Claudy Conn's writing style, crisp, clear, and very descriptive. Love this story!

I recommend this read to any 18+ Reader out their who likes a steamy suspenseful read.

5 out of 5 Hearts
Lovetiggi's Book Reviews

[Anna Ring · Rating 1 out of 5]

I found this book to be dry reading, there was no sustenance. the character interactions were in my opinion flat, and lacking. By that I mean that while you spend much of I
Thu
e time in Bess' s head you don't really have any feeling for the character, I didn't feel bonded with the character, and I felt that the book was not progressing smoothly. I was unable to finish the book. This is unusual for me since I don't like loose ends, no matter how bad the movie or book is I have to know "what happens". I stopped reading and left it on my kindle, just in case...and nope months later I find I still don't care.

[Cidney · Rating 1 out of 5]

Quite poor I thought. It was supposed to be set in the regency period yet the language used was more 20th century in places. If this was portrayed on tv it wouldn't fare well, only in rape and bodice ripping scenes. Poor plot. I really can't find anything which made me enjoy this book. Perhaps she wrote better ones, we all have our off days, that said I found it difficult to believe it was written by someone who was British, for followers of historical type drama the language spoken at that time was simply not correct in this book.

[Cait · Rating 1 out of 5]

TGIF: thank God it's free. This might be one of the silliest books I've ever (attempted to) read. I like me some humor, but not like this, where I can't tell if the author's intent was satire, or if they thought they were creating literature. I'm guessing the former; I ran out of patience for it regardless. It's been 5 years, but I can recall my feelings on it, so kudos on that front, I guess?

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, loved this really exciting Historical Romance. The story was full of action and intrigue. You could nearly feel the air sizzling with passion between the hero Lord John Dunkirk and heroine Lady Bess. Loved the humour and the banter with the other characters. I highly recommend this book.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually don't read historicals but got this free & decided to give it a try...so glad I did! Right from the beginning the chemistry was there between the main characters & the story never let up till the end that left me searching for the next installment of this series. & surprisingly pretty clean for a historical romance! Can't wait for more!!

[Megan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kind of boring. Too many rhetorical questions: a "Why did he feel this way?" "What was wrong with her?" "How did he even meet her?" "What was she thinking?" etc on every page. But not terribly written, and the mystery (which wasn't really a mystery because it's clear who did it and why) added more of a plot than most of this kind of romance.

[Amy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was recommended this book by someone, and although I tried to like it I thought it was slow and pretty boring. The accent on the main character was annoying to read and I wouldn't recommend this book to others.

[Duchess Raven · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this one quite a bit. The accent quite literally spelled out led to some annoyance, but the story was good and the bits of chaos at the end added some well off bits. I liked the characters. They all had a personality and none seemed flat as they do in some books.

[Melanie Tikalsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read most of Claudy Conn's books and keep waiting for a bad one....well this isn't one of them! Claudy Conn keeps the pace moving in this story. Several parts of the story had me laughing out loud. The comedic timing is spot on. The romance is steamy and the male is hot hot hot!

[Kbee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not her best. Kept turning the pages hoping that it would get better. The story and plot was good but it was missing something. Characters were kinda fake compared to her other books.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Give me a man with a Scottish brogue any day! I was pleasantly surprised with the nasty female in this Claudy Conn story! Loved all the action and drama.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Earl of Dunkrik Stars

[Carrie Pearson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Couldn’t get through more than half of it since I was too put off by the author misspelling words because the male lead has an accent.

[Lissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Enjoyed the story but it was spoiled by the inconsistent use of the Scottish language.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was surprised that I actually loved this one. Bess is interesting & funny.