Un comte à conquérir

Love on Holiday #2

by Christy Carlyle

Écosse, 1897
Lucy n'en croit pas ses yeux ! Non seulement James, le comte aussi charmant qu'irritant qu'elle a rencontré dans le train, l'a suivie jusque chez sa tante, mais voilà qu'il prétend que la demeure lui appartient ! Et, pour couronner le tout, sa tante a disparu... Alors certes, Lucy voulait vivre une aventure pour oublier sa vie morne de Londres, mais là, le destin y va un peu fort ! Et puis, comment pourrait-elle résoudre tous ces mystères quand James la déstabilise de ses yeux bleus rieurs, de ses sourires en coin ? Comment se concentrer sur autre chose que le trouble intense qui l'envahit lorsque ses mains l'effleurent au détour d'un couloir ?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Audiobook, Scotland, Forced Proximity

320 pages, Pocket Book

First published November 29, 2022

About the author

Fueled by Pacific Northwest coffee and inspired by multiple viewings of every British costume drama she can get her hands on, USA Today bestselling author Christy Carlyle writes sensual historical romance set in the Victorian era. She loves heroes who struggle against all odds and heroines who are ahead of their time. A former teacher with a degree in history, she finds there's nothing better than being able to combine her love of the past with a die-hard belief in happy endings.

Reviews

[Hannah B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very light and fluffy five stars because sometimes light and fluffy is exactly what I need. If you like One Duke Down by Anna Bennett, How to Be a Wallflower by Eloisa James, or any low-angst, no breakup historical romance novel this is the one for you! It’s so low angst that both sets of parents were SUPPORTIVE. Were his dead? Yes but he loved them. And her parents were alive and well adjusted.

There was a ramshackle cottage and what is a ramshackle cottage if not for forbidden passion? I liked that he did have need of her money and he wasn’t completely stubborn about it when she offered it to him. (I mean he was but in the end I liked how they worked it out.) The audiobook narrator was great as well. It was a comforting read and definitely feel-good all around.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️*/5

*One main open door scene, plus a little extra on the side. It could’ve definitely used some more spice but I wasn’t angry about it.

[Samantha · Rating 2 out of 5]

⭐⭐
2 stars.

Slow-paced and boring.

Formulaic.

Flat and bland main characters.

Lacking and unconvincing romance and chemistry.

[Tina | readinginbliss · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Little Athena, who had Artemis's love for archery, looked now like a slumbering Venus...

Lady Lucy Westmont receives a letter from her aunt, Lady Cassandra to visit her in Scotland. After 3 seasons with no matches and the strictness of London's society, Lucy is itching for a change and ready to rebel. New Earl of Rossbury, James Pembroke inherited his uncle's debts and a manor in Scotland. Straddling with his own debts, he's determined to sell the manor... only to stumble upon a surprise. This is the 2nd installment, and can definitely be read as a standalone.

It was interesting how Lucy and James met. Their chemistry and interactions was sweet and spicy. I also liked the fact that they stayed in the house for quite a while- love those scenes (quite improper ;) )! Lucy's hobbies are interesting too - archery and photography! I started to wane at 85% mark with unnecessary details about asking for Lucy's hand in marriage. But don't let that deter you from a good story! The epilogue does well in wrapping up the story and bringing it full circle. Very cute and light hearted read.

It's not quite a 4 stars book, imo - ALMOST though. If the ending didn't drag at the 85% mark... so, so close!

Thanks to Netgalley and it's publisher for a free copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.

[ChasingLeslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Lucy Westmont views an invitation to visit her aunt in the Scottish countryside as the perfect opportunity to think about what she wants for her own life. On the train, she encounters James Pembroke, new Earl of Rossbury, who is traveling to Scotland to sell his uncle's manor home. When Lucy arrives, she discovers her aunt is gone and James is claiming that he owns the house instead.

This is the second book in the A Love on Holiday series. It stands alone and is only connected to the first book by theme. Just like the first story, it was a refreshingly easy read with low angst and big feels. After a few unsuccessful seasons, Lucy wants to have an adventure and find herself. James is a down-on-his-luck businessman and suddenly inheriting a title does little to solve his financial problems. There's an instant spark when they meet, although neither is aware of the situation they are about to step into in Scotland. I loved that the couple spent so much time together on page. This was a great, lighthearted read that pushed all the right buttons for me. (4.5 rounded to 5)

Tropes: Road Trip, Forced Proximity, First Love

Steam: 2

* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #LadyMeetsEarl #NetGalley

[Julie - One Book More · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Meets Earl follows Lady Lucy Westmont and James Pembroke, Earl of Rossbury, a couple who finds more than they ever expected on a train ride to Scotland.

Lucy is twenty-three and has three seasons behind her. Still unmatched, Lucy is waiting for a love match when she decides, with the approval of her parents, to visit her aunt in Scotland. Traveling alone is a new experience for Lucy, and she is excited for her first independent adventure. James is a new earl with a tremendous amount of debt and wishes to sell his land in Scotland to pay his debtors. When he and Lucy bump into each other at the train station, neither realizes how much their lives are about to intersect and how quickly their feelings for each other will grow.

Though Lucy and James have an instant connection on their journey to Scotland, their relationship is complicated when they realize that James owns and intends to sell the property on which Lucy’s aunt lives. Lucy is an independent spirit determined to prove she can handle herself without a man or a companion. So, when she meets James at the start of her first journey alone, she never plans on developing feelings for him. He has no interest in a wife either, what with all of his financial problems pressing down on him. But love happens when you least expect it, as the couple quickly realizes.

Lucy and James have a great romance, and I enjoyed their story, even if it was a bit insta-lovey. Their story begins with a banter-filled meet cute, and you can see the sparks between them from the start. James is so drawn to Lucy, and he goes out of his way to get to know her. I love how much time they spend talking and learning about each other, and there’s definitely a deep sense of longing between them.

Unfortunately for James and Lucy, there are several obstacles standing in their way. James is proud, and he doesn’t want Lucy tainted by his financial issues, especially since James needs to sell the home Lucy’s aunt lives in, and his collector proves a threatening and dangerous adversary. James made a deal with a nefarious man, who now demands payment in full. James and his servants have been threatened, and that threat has followed him to Scotland. There’s a bit of suspense, as James feels he’s being watched, and the pressure to pay back his debts looms over him. It was interesting to see how he dealt with this, and I thought it also highlighted some interesting themes.

Two characters, James and Lucy’s aunt, are offered to have their debts paid by another. Both refuse. I was intrigued by this because both could have ended all of their problems by taking the offers, but they both refuse to be indebted to anyone else. It definitely says something about the need for independence, freedom, and self-sufficiency.

Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Meets Earl is charming, romantic, and it made my heart happy! If you’re looking for a low conflict, romantic escapism, this is it!

I’m so glad I got a chance to read this book. I have a major weakness for road trips in historical romance. The sexual tension between characters in close proximity is incomparable. Not to mention the witty banter, the romance, and the scenic historical detail.

After three failed seasons, Lady Lucy Westmont, an aspiring artist, yearns for a bit of freedom and adventure. Rather than garnering appreciation for helping others, Lucy is labeled “a meddlesome termagant.” As a result, eligible gentlemen avoid her. Lucy has had enough. Fortunately, escape comes in the form of an invitation to Scotland from her beloved and indomitable aunt, Lady Cassandra.

James Pembroke is deep in debt. Following a failed investment scheme, James is not only on the brink of losing his shipping company, but, worst of all, he owes money to a villainous moneylender. When James unexpectedly inherits his late uncle’s title, it was supposed to be a respite. Instead, James’s debts and despair compounded because the earldom is debt-ridden. But hold on! There is also a manor house in Scotland. Selling it seems his best option.

Fate saw both Lucy and James traveling to the same destination, on the same train. Their chemistry was palpable from their first meeting and seeing their sweet and swoony romance unfold was pure delight. When Lucy is accosted by an odious passenger, James comes to her aid and offers to share his train car. They get to know each other on the journey. There is attraction, curiosity, and longing. The next time they meet, to their surprise, is at the said manor house. I adore James and Lucy. James is hard working and honorable. I love that Lucy brings out the teasing scoundrel in him. He is also tender with her. Likewise, Lucy’s desire to help others is endearing and relatable. I love that Lucy is no pushover. There are lovely romantic scenes in this book. My favorite is where Lucy gives James archery lessons. Moreover, there are lively secondary characters including Lucy’s aunt and Blackwood. I also appreciate Lucy’s supportive and loving parents.

Lady Meets Earl drops around the holiday season. It’ll surely keep you warm and cozy!

Thanks to Netgalley and Avon for giving me the opportunity to read an e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Lucy Westmont has spent most of her life trying to take care of others and smooth the way for everyone around her, but she longs to do something for herself. When her free-spirited aunt invites her to Scotland for a visit, Lucy decides it’s the perfect getaway to evaluate her true desires.

James Pembroke has just learned of his estranged uncle’s death, making him the new Earl of Rossbury and saddling him with debts. He already owes one of London’s most unsavory lenders after a business deal went very wrong and took down his shipping company. The only thing of value he’s inherited is the Scottish manor house occupied by his uncle’s mistress. He has no desire to displace the woman, but he needs the capital he stands to gain from the sale of the house.

Lucy and James wind up sharing a train car on the ride up to Scotland and are shocked to meet again at the manor house with Lucy’s aunt absent. Lucy is determined not to let any of this derail her holiday, even if her newfound feelings for James threaten to upend her entire life.

This was a really cute instalove/instant connection story and just the sort of low angst read I need at this time of year especially. Although she was a bit prickly at first, I liked the fact that Lucy didn’t shy away from the feelings James ignited in her, but rather she wanted to spend more time with him and explore them. Lucy and James may not have known each other very long, but their openness and mature communication made their relationship believable as they came to know each other quite deeply in a short amount of time. James’ past was very fraught and sad, so I really enjoyed seeing him find not only love but a family. He struggled a bit with belonging, but that was really endearing, and Lucy always seemed to know what he needed. I think perhaps my favorite part of this book was Lucy and James’ exploration of Edinburgh, my favorite city. Circumstances allowed these two to have a good deal of alone time together and I ate that up. This was a fun, quick read and I look forward to others in the series to follow.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lady Meets Earl is the second book in the Love on a holiday series by Christy Carlyle. This was my first time reading this author and it read well as a standalone. Lucy Westmont is firmly on the shelf after three unsuccessful seasons and she's quite content with it. Her aunt invites her to visit Scotland to get away from all of Lucy's familial requirements and decide what she wants to get out of life. James Pembroke has just discovered that he is the new Earl of Rossbury after his estranged uncle dies. James must go to Scotland to evaluate and sell the property there since his uncle left the earldom in debt. After a series of encounters on the train, Lucy and James travel to their destinations only to realize they are one in the same.

I found the beginning of the book to be a bit boring. It wasn't until Lucy and James are on page together that the story really picked up for me. I really loved their time on the train and how they interacted at the house. The housekeeper trying desperately to have some sense of propriety was entertaining. The last minute conflict was unnecessary. It was one of those things that could have been avoided if Lucy would have just waited half a day to hear what was going on. When looking back at the plot to write up my review, I had a hard time remembering what had actually happened. There is low angst and lacks much action. I don't think that's a bad thing per se. I enjoyed a great deal of the book but in the end it wasn't particularly memorable.

I would give this book 3.5 stars and would like to try some more of Carlyle's books in the future. Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Harper Voyager for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a lifetime of living for her friends, family, even strangers, Lady Lucy Westmont knows something must change or she’ll lose herself forever. An invitation to visit her free-spirited and scandalous aunt in the wild Scottish countryside is the perfect opportunity to discover how to live the life she wants.
James Pembroke just learned that not only is he the new Earl of Rossbury, he’s also inherited his late uncle’s debts and a manor house deep in Scotland. Already owing money to an unsavory man because of a business deal that went awry, he has no choice but to travel to Scotland to sell the manor. On his way, he finds himself sharing a train car with a rather pretty but wild young woman.
When Lucy manages to make it to her aunt’s home, she discovers her aunt is missing and the incredibly rude man who shared her train car is claiming that he owns the house instead. Nevertheless, Lucy is determined to have a true holiday, even if she is accompanied by the man who has upended her plans—and her heart.
Lucy and James are meant to be together. James has inherited a penniless Earldom. He is desperate to get the monies needed to cover the debt even if he has to sell the estate.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book from the publisher and NetGalley.

[Angie · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 15%

Personally didn't work for me. At 15% in, nothing had grabbed my attention, and I still hadn't connected with either MCs. The plot didn't sound like it was going anywhere exciting, so it was time to move on to the next book.

*ARC provided by Netgalley, and I voluntarily reviewed it*

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This second in a series of novels that takes place on holiday, away from London. The book can be be read as a stand alone as the stories don’t interconnect. Kudos for the beautiful cover the coloring with the loch in the background. It immediately catches the eye.

James Pembrooke inherits a title from his uncle. He has been ignored by the uncle, living on his own after his parents passing. He has gone into debt to the wrong person almost losing his entire shipping company. He needs funds and rushes to Scotland to see if he can sale his inherited property. On the train (this is Victorian era) he meets Lady Lucy Westmont who is heading to Scotland to see her aunt. The two eventually arrive at the same place. Her aunt was the mistress of the uncle and she lives in the manor house that he wants to sell. But the aunt is away for a few days leaving the two time to get to know one.

I love their time at the house loosely chaperoned. Lucy is a wonderful character, warm, competitive and always helping others. She is 24 and not shy about talking to James or trying to help find a solution for his dilemma. I found the book quick to read, almost in one sitting. It didn’t seem so insta because they do take time to get to know one another but the majority of the story takes place in only a few days. The final resolution is practical and happens quickly. I did like how understanding her aunt and parents were to Lucy.

I enjoyed reading the story but I can’t think of anything to really rave about. Heat wise it is in the low to mid range with Lucy taking the reins and instigating. Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Heather | Nerdy By Nature Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perpetual people-pleaser Lady Lucy Westmont knows that she needs to change her ways if she wants to make a life for herself. When she receives a letter inviting her to stay with her free-spirited aunt in the Scottish countryside, Lucy jumps at the chance to do something for herself. Once Lucy arrives at the manor, she's shocked to discover her aunt gone and the handsome yet rude stranger she shared a train car with, claiming that he's the rightful owner of the property.

Up until recently, James Pembroke was in the shipping business. Now, James finds himself the new Earl of Rossbury, and with that title comes his late uncle's debts and a manor house in the wilds of Scotland. James, already in debt to a dangerous man after a business deal went sour, has no choice but to sell the manor. But when he arrives, he finds Lucy and her tenacious spirit has him re-thinking everything. As the pair spend more time together, their feelings for one another grow. But will James throw away his one chance at erasing his debts to follow his heart instead?

I've never read anything by Carlyle before, but you can bet I'll be diving into her backlist now. I thought this was so fun. I was instantly charmed and found Lucy so relatable. The romance between her and James was quite insta-lovey, but I didn't mind so much. They had great banter, and their relationship just felt so sweet. I thought James was stubborn and too prideful when refusing Lucy's help, but he had his reasonings. The plot had lower stakes compared to other hist-roms I've read, but I liked that. It made it feel cozier in a way. Overall, I thought it was a cute, quick read, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Meets Earl is a fun, witty, and sexy romance with the added bonus of being set in fabulous Scotland - I was hooked right from the beginning!! This is the second book in the A Love on Holiday series and it can totally be enjoyed as a standalone romance, The MCs are Lady Lucy Westmont and James Pembroke, the new Earl of Rossbury, an earldom left with quite a bit of debt and drama by his late uncle. The tropes included in this story include forced proximity, reluctant new aristocrat, road trip, and damaged hero. Lucy and James find themselves sharing a journey to Scotland in the same train car - I mean what could possibly happen! 😉 I really enjoyed the witty meet cute between the two MCs there are immediate sparks between them that continue to grow as they get to know each other, the author does an excellent job of portraying the yearning experienced between them. Let’s just say, James has a thirst and only one person can slake it! 🔥😍❤️‍🔥 Loved. Every. Word!

Overall, I found this story to be a refreshingly easy to enjoy romance with fun characters, low angst, lots of feels, explosive chemistry and of course it includes interesting secondary characters. I encourage you to give this book a try, author Christy Carlyle has definitely captured my interest and at this point I would be up to reading any of her work.

5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥

📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from Avon and Harper Voyager publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are cross-posted to social media, goodreads, and blog. 🦄

[Stacee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had read the previous book in this series and liked the sound of this one too.

I liked Lucy and James. They're both good people who have a very cute meet cute. From there, there's light chemistry, serious interest, and a meandering towards a new relationship. There are a few other characters, but they're all peripheral.

Plot wise, it was okay. It took me some time to get invested in these two. I expected some tension or urgency due to the situation James was it, but the entire story is basically fluff. There's no real conflict and they're together almost the entire story.

Overall, it was sweet story and one that was easy to read once I was really interested. I'm eager to see what book three has in store.

**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I must learn to live with happiness."

Lighthearted and unique, this is a fast read filled with fun.

When you put a dog in a book you immediately have my heart! This book is fun and sweet, but it did drag in parts and the writing could be kind of clunky. This is part of a series but absolutely can be read on its own. I'll definitely look forward to more in this series as well!

Star Rating: 3.75/5
Tropes: Road trip, big family
CW: Abuse, death

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[i_hype_romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adored Christy Carlyle's newest release!
If you like the tropes of mistaken identity, rivals, star-crossed lovers and forced proximity, this is for you!
Full review to come on my blog when the HCP strike has been resolved.

[Sarah T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Meets Earl was such a sweet, heartwarming story. It left me feeling so happy and I definitely recommend giving this a read.

The story starts with James Pembroke learning that he's inherited the earldom from his uncle, and the only valuable item coming from this news is a manor in Scotland. Then there's Lady Lucy Westmont, who is such a selfless person that she's often forgotten about her own needs. When her aunt invites her to stay with her in Scotland, she decides to accept and have an adventure of her own. While on her journey there, she meets James and these two instantly connect!

I love stories where the two main characters get to spend time alone, and trust me, there's a lot of that in this book! Lucy and James have deep conversations, but also have very sensual and steamy moments. Together, they help each other go through their past trauma and overcome many obstacles, while maintaining a level of trust and falling in love with one another. Loved every moment of it!

Thanks to Netgalley and Avon for giving me the opportunity to read an e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adorable!

A cute fluffy read, low angst and low stakes. This was fun and refreshing. The couple was always on page together, their chemistry was sugar sweet and beautiful.

I really enjoyed this book. I definitely got the feeling of Love on Holiday. So so good. The hero was absolutely smitten with the heroine from the moment he saw her and the heroine just couldn't stay away.

If youre looking for a palate cleanser, fluffy, sweet romance i would highly recommend this.

Safety&Info
3rd person dual pov
Spice: 🔥🔥 not overly descriptive or long but you definitely know whats going on.
Romance: 🧡💚🧡💚/5
Magic: ✨️✨️✨️✨️/5

◇ow drama: no
◇om drama: no but om tries to assault h in train. H and h take care of him.
◇no cheating/sharing/triangle
◇no protection
◇a few hour seperation
◇no 3rd act breakup
◇h 24, H older but id say no older than 30?
◇h virgin, H not a manwhore, celibate for a year or more
◇HEA 1 yr in the future, married, visiting Ivermere and h got H a puppy

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute and fun romance with a heroine who needs a little rebellion in her life and a hero trying to get back on his feet after falling into debt. I liked how the characters were open about their attraction to each other and there wasn't too much of the miscommunication troupe.

[Jocelynereadsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars rounded up. Will Post Full Review when a fair contract is reached to end the HarperCollins strike.

[Winnifred D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a more relaxed read than expected, but I enjoyed it overall. I felt the chemistry between Lucy and James was sweet rather than racy, so the slow-burn scenes were more effective than the steamier ones, which seemed a bit forced. I liked how Lucy and James met at the beginning and their rapport on the train, but what have been more of an enemies-to-lovers relationship mellowed very quickly. This led to a bit of a lag in the middle portion of the storyline, punctuated only by the threat of violence that ended up fizzling because the main conflict was resolved rapidly and off-page (one of my pet peeves).

I never really had the sense that Lucy was "wild", just conflicted between devotion to family and her independence. I did have a problem with the silly, impulsive decision she made to go back to London and the reason why. Instead of upping the tension, this just made me cringe. James was more cautious and haunted than rude, and had potential to be interesting, with the memories of his dark past lurking. However, I felt I was being held at a bit of a distance from him.

Bottom line: this is sweet and smoothly written, with likable main characters, but conflicts are glossed over. Steam level: 3. Language is mild.

I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, Avon/Harper Voyager, and Net Galley.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for an ARC of this book.

Lady Meets Earl follows James Pembroke who has recently lost his business and is in debt after an investment gone wrong. He finds out he has inherited his recently deceased uncle’s estate. The heroine is Lucy who goes to Scotland to visit her aunt to have a some adventure in her life. Lucy usually meddles in her friends and family’s affairs and is quite stubborn. They meet at the train station where they are both headed to Scotland, and unbeknownst to them, the same house.

I enjoyed this book. This plot is quite slow and there is not a lot of action for almost all of the book, which is not necessarily a bad thing. James immediately is interested in Lucy and they spend quite a bit of time together getting to know each other throughout the book. I thought the side characters were all fleshed out well. You slowly learn more about James’ past and his family and his relationship with his uncle.

My one gripe is that the you meet quite a few characters all at once at the beginning of the book. Overall, I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the plot.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.".


Lady Meets Earl is the second book I have read by l

Christy Carlyle.. I will be reading more of her books a delightful read. 5 star read for me 




Thanks Netgalley for a arc copy of this book for a honest review


Happy Reading Lisa 📚 

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Lucy Westmont has dedicated to serving her family and friends by being there to solve problems and difficult situations. She receives an invitation from her Aunt Cassandra to come for a holiday in Scotland. Lady Lucy accepts instantly. She is in her third season and is ready for the freedom this trip will provide her.

James Pembroke, the new Earl of Rossbury, is in desperate need of funds to cover the debts he has incurred from his failed shipping business investments and from the debts his new title has brought to him. His only option is to sell the manor house in Scotland. James hates riding trains because of a train accident which happened when he was ten years old. Still, it is the fastest way to get to Scotland and time is of the essences.

Lucy and James meet on the train platform while boarding the train. He bumps into her causing her valise of books to fall on his foot. This starts the beginning of them getting to know each other. When they get to Scotland, they part ways with both of them arriving separately at the manor home. Lucy is shocked to learn that the manor her Aunt Cassandra calls home is the one and the same Scottish manor home James owns and plans to sell. Despite these facts, Lucy is still determined to have her holiday and, if possible, find a solution to keep Aunt Cassandra in her home.

An instalove Historical Romance, I found the protagonists' relationship easy to follow and to accept. They spent a lot of time together traveling to Scotland and then while they were in Scotland. In this time, they came to open up to each other and to know each other very well. James and Lucy fell for each other in a short span of time. It was as if they were old acquaintances reconnecting. I liked that James really didn't want to remove Lady Cassandra from the manor home. He searched and searched for a way to prevent this from happening. Mrs. Fox, Lady Cassandra's abigail, is also another secondary character who stood out. She kept a weathered eye on James and Lucy while they were at the manor house. Lady Cassandra's lover, Angus Blackwood, is a man who has fallen hard for Cassandra, and he is willing to help any way he can.

The plot is a romance, and the subplots enhance it. The descriptions let the reader visualize the Scottish countryside, the London weather and the romance. The dialogue is filled with banter and teasing as well as serious moments. Christy Carlyle does a wonderful job revealing the characters though characterization and dialogue. The pacing had its moments of being slow, but for the most part it did not hamper the flow of the novel, in my honest opinion. This is the second book in the Love on Holiday trilogy. I enjoyed this easy reading novel. It had very little angst and misunderstandings. I look forward to reading the third book. Adult situations.

[Romanticamente Fantasy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Polvere D'arte - per RFS
.
Salve Fenici, rieccoci qui con un nuovo romanzo che ho apprezzato tanto. Lucy secondogenita, è una donna che si è sempre prodigata verso il prossimo aiutando chiunque ne avesse bisogno indifferentemente dal ceto sociale. Vuole sistemare tutte le situazioni e ci riesce ogni volta in maniera egregia però così facendo mette da parte se stessa. Guardando suo fratello e sua sorella capisce che deve cambiare modo e atteggiamento verso la vita se desidera avere anche lei il proprio posto nel mondo, decide così di intraprendere un viaggio da sola, senza nemmeno una chaperon (accompagnatrice), presso la zia vedova. Nella stazione, già col suo sguardo sognante per la nuova avventura che sta per intraprendere, si susseguiranno una serie di eventi belli e brutti che la cambieranno: la faranno diventare per certi versi irrazionale e per altri temeraria, ma una cosa è certa prenderà finalmente le decisioni per se stessa senza curarsi degli altri. Incontra James, nobile orfano, uomo d’onore e d’affari caduto in disgrazia che sta cercando di risollevarsi, lui rimane incantato dalla nostra protagonista e il fato non li farà più allontanare l’uno dall’altra. Ma James, dal carattere schivo, dovrà imparare a farsi aiutare e proteggere dalle persone che ama, cosa per nulla facile dato il suo passato e soprattutto dovrà risalire la china prima di poter anche solo pensare di prender moglie.

Ho amato tanto Lucy per il modo di fare schietto e senza mezzi termini, una donna pratica che risolve ogni situazione e che non si spaventa di fronte a niente. L’unica cosa che la preoccupa, come ad ognuno di noi, è l’incontro con James, da lì mille dubbi l’attanaglieranno ma non si farà per nulla scoraggiare, anzi! Farà tutto ciò che è in suo potere per raggiungere il proprio obiettivo, prenderà anche in mano la situazione con James – cosa che non si vede quasi in nessun romanzo – e si metterà anche in pericolo. James è un uomo d’altri tempi nel vero senso della parola, è una sorta di cavaliere dall’armatura scintillante che nessuna donna può non apprezzare. Viene automatico simpatizzare per lui e amarlo. L’attrazione fra i due è palpabile fin dall’inizio, ma purtroppo ci saranno alcune cose, oltre ai loro caratteri e preconcetti da smussare, che si metteranno tra di loro. I due avranno da lottare e il finale sembra sempre precario, riusciranno a finire insieme o resteranno separati?

Se volete un romance storico con una donna che non si fa comandare a bacchetta, che ha le proprie passioni, che prende le proprie decisioni e soprattutto che non si lascia influenzare dalla società dell’epoca, questo è il romanzo che fa per voi! Leggetelo e fatemi sapere cosa ne pensate.

[Heather Moll · Rating 3 out of 5]

In 1897, Lady Lucy Westmont gets an invitation to visit her free-spirited aunt in the Scottish countryside and decides this is the opportunity to discover how to live the life she wants.

James Pembroke is the new Earl of Rossbury and he’s inherited his late uncle’s debts and a manor house in Scotland. Already owing money to loan sharks because his business failed, he has no choice but to travel to Scotland to sell the manor.

After a clash on the train, they discover he owns the manor and her aunt is gone.

James come across as a schemer and a scammer, always looking for the next easy deal and willing to charm his way into it. His character arc is necessary and believable. I’m not sure how inherited the earldom was a shock to him though.
Lucy is a problem solver who isn’t allowed to enter into a profession even though she can take care of herself. She’s eager to prove herself and I found her more likable than James.

They had great chemistry without it being insta-lust. It started strong and fast-paced, but then got boring. It’s a simple story with little conflict. The missing aunt from the description is never missing, so I feel cheated on there being no mystery and even the resolution with the James’s debts was easily cleared up.
I received an arc from NetGalley

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars. James Pembrooke learns that he has unexpectedly inherited a title from his uncle, he heads to Scotland where his uncle’s mistress occupies the only livable piece of property included in the inheritance. On the train north, he meets Lady Lucy Westmont who is headed to Scotland to visit her aunt. The two find out that the mistress and the aunt are one-in-the-same and the pair stay in the house together while awaiting Lucy’s aunt’s return, which of course lead to sparks flying as they spend time together.

I absolutely adore this cover. The pink sky dress and flowers, the clinch, the loch, all of it is perfect. The book itself was a bit inconsistent in pace. The first part of the book is slow but once James and Lucy are in the house together it is absolutely darling. However, the ending was somehow a mix of being glacially slow and conflict resolving as quickly as it was brought up. I wish there would have been more consistent tension or something to really keep the pace going because I found myself reading a few chapter and easily putting the book down to do other things.

I did like both James and Lucy. I liked that their attraction toward one another was clear without falling into the category of insta-lust, but I’m sad to say that this was a lower heat book and I was hoping for more on that front. I honestly almost missed the first kiss because it just blended in to everything else. I really appreciated that Lucy had hobbies that were not typical to historical romance heroines and I loved that she got to teach James about the things she liked. Overall I enjoyed reading the book while I was actively reading it and will read the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

James Pembroke is the new Earl of Rossbury, but his uncle left him with more debt. He already owes money to a loan shark. Lady Lucy is on her way to Scotland to visit her Aunt Cassandra. James is on his way to Scotland to sell his only asset, a manor where his dead uncle's mistress lives. Lucy and James meet at King's Crossing Station and are attracted to each other, but James has nothing to offer in the way of security. They go their separate ways once in Scotland. What a surprise! James uncle's mistress is Lucy's aunt. A very nice guy, James' money problem is the focus for the story, but the big push is his relationship with Lucy. In love, Lucy is determined to fix James' problem. Enjoyed the read even though it moves a little slow.
♥️📖
Heat Level 3
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Mary Gallo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet story!
May contain spoilers.
I enjoyed this book very much. The hero is a business man who was swindled by his partner, a money lender in disguise. When their business contract is over, our hero is left with no ships, no inventory and owing a lot of money to a man who he thought was his business partner, but in reality, took him for everything. He still has his office for the next few months and he will have to work hard to outwit his adversary. He goes to his solicitor and learns that his luck may have changed. He is now the new Esrl of Rossbury. But his luck does not change that much because the old earl's home burned down and he rented a small apartment. The old earl had very little money, but there was a small manor in Scotland. It was occupied by a former mistress of the old earl, but he could just sell it, right? How hard could that be?
The heroine is about sick of the Season. She asks her parents and is given permission to travel to her aunt in Scotland. Since she is above her majority, she is going to travel alone. No one will bother with her. She meets two.older ladies and they agree to travel together. A older man comes and sits with them and.promptly falls asleep. She had a run'in with a young man at the station and she see him in the dining room. One of her travelling companions needs one of her medications and the heroine goes to get it. She is leaning over the older sleeping man, when he grabs her and tries to accost her. The young man from the dining room came to see what was taking her so long and pulls the old man off her. He then moves all.of their belongings to his compartment and goes to get the older ladies. How lucky was she that he showed up in time! He guesses that she is a lady, but introduces himself as a commoner instead of his new title. Since they weren't going to meet again, he decided it was easier to just be James Pembrooke instead of the Earl of Rossbury. But they did meet again, in the heroine's aunt's drawing room, which is the manor that he wants to sell.
I enjoyed this book very much. It was a cute little story and the characters we so likeable. The situations were not catastrophic or drama filled. It was a nice realistic story. The story pulled you in and you finished with a nice feeling in your heart. I give this book 5 stars and a recommendation to read.