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Secrets & Seduction #2
Loving the Earl
In Sharon Cullen’s sizzling novel of scandal and seduction, a headstrong beauty is pursued across Europe by London’s most notorious rake.
Having vowed never to wed again, widowed viscountess Claire Hartford is about to do the unthinkable: travel unaccompanied across the continent in search of a lover. Her adventure begins sooner than expected, when she meets a magnificent cloaked stranger on her ship’s gangplank. He is Lord Blythe, a man whispered about in London’s ballrooms and drawing rooms, a scandalous rogue hell-bent on seduction.
Nathan Ferguson curses the day he agreed to look out for his best friend’s wayward sister. The charismatic earl is traveling to Paris to uncover the truth behind his father’s death, but his desire for Claire threatens to be his undoing. From France to Italy, on a journey of passionate discovery and danger, Nathan is honor-bound to protect her—from himself most of all. What can he offer Claire? Only love, as he sets out to prove to the woman of his dreams that she belongs to him—body, heart, and soul.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: Mistletoe and Magic, What Not to Bare, and After the Kiss.
Having vowed never to wed again, widowed viscountess Claire Hartford is about to do the unthinkable: travel unaccompanied across the continent in search of a lover. Her adventure begins sooner than expected, when she meets a magnificent cloaked stranger on her ship’s gangplank. He is Lord Blythe, a man whispered about in London’s ballrooms and drawing rooms, a scandalous rogue hell-bent on seduction.
Nathan Ferguson curses the day he agreed to look out for his best friend’s wayward sister. The charismatic earl is traveling to Paris to uncover the truth behind his father’s death, but his desire for Claire threatens to be his undoing. From France to Italy, on a journey of passionate discovery and danger, Nathan is honor-bound to protect her—from himself most of all. What can he offer Claire? Only love, as he sets out to prove to the woman of his dreams that she belongs to him—body, heart, and soul.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: Mistletoe and Magic, What Not to Bare, and After the Kiss.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
18 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Cullen
32 books206 followersAfter earning a degree in journalism from Ohio University, Sharon found the stories inside her head were more interesting than what was going on in the world around her. Yet, it wasn’t until years later that she decided to pursue her secret dream of writing a romance novel. Since then she’s been published in romantic suspense, paranormal romance and contemporary romance and historical romance.
Sharon’s other job descriptions include chauffer, laundress, cook and mediator to her three very busy kids, her husband and two dogs. She lives in southwest Ohio with her brood although her dream is to someday retire to St. Maarten and live on the beach.
If you’d like to find out more about Sharon and her books, you can visit her at her website. She’s addicted to social networking so you can find her on Facebook and Twitter. Friend her! Like her! Follow her! She’d love to hang out with you and talk about her passion—books.
Sharon’s other job descriptions include chauffer, laundress, cook and mediator to her three very busy kids, her husband and two dogs. She lives in southwest Ohio with her brood although her dream is to someday retire to St. Maarten and live on the beach.
If you’d like to find out more about Sharon and her books, you can visit her at her website. She’s addicted to social networking so you can find her on Facebook and Twitter. Friend her! Like her! Follow her! She’d love to hang out with you and talk about her passion—books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
January 18, 2016
ARC received for review
New Year's Resolution book..once a week, read an old ARC that got overlooked
Historical with a mystery, angst and sexy bedroom antics. Claire annoyed me a little in the beginning, but grew on me. Nathan was yummy and perfect for her. Overall not a bad book.
New Year's Resolution book..once a week, read an old ARC that got overlooked
Historical with a mystery, angst and sexy bedroom antics. Claire annoyed me a little in the beginning, but grew on me. Nathan was yummy and perfect for her. Overall not a bad book.
November 15, 2013
This was a gem of a read!
At first glance, the story comes off lighthearted and silly, Lady Claire Addison, widowed Viscountess Chesterman, sought to escape the clutches of her loving but protective family and travel to the Continent, to experience her long-awaited adventure. En route to her first stop, Paris, she encounters her older brother's best friend Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, who happened to be tasked with ensuring her safety on this trip. My first complement to the author is in not making their prior acquaintance a mystery to be revealed much later on, as that often necessitates unnecessary angst in the case with mistaken - or unknown - identities. Rather, Claire recognized Nathan on sight, and he found out her identity as the one he was tasked to look after soon after. But of course, no good trip is ever without danger; as highwaymen, thieves, and painful pasts catch up to Claire and Nathan, can they overcome their own insecurities and come to embrace love?
I have to admit, Claire's personality bothered me in the beginning -- her intrepid persona seemed at odds with her status as a respectable widow and one who is not in the first blush of youth. Her naivety, while hilariously charming, did make me question the extent to which she knows about the world, which apparently is a minuscule amount (She was tricked out of most of her belongings, after all). It was likely the sensation of finally being free from a cage that allowed her personality to burst forth uninhabited; the lightness of spirit she exhibits as an unconscious rebellion against the staid mask she wore during the constant abuse of her husband Richard. But even through that horror, Claire emerged victorious, resilient and with a zest to experience the life she's been missing, albeit swearing not to ever marry again.
Nathan is a honorable hero who is at once comfortable and at odds with himself. His quest was to discover the truth of his father's death, and along the journey from France to Italy, he came to question his own goals in life. Sure, he struggled to restore the family coffers by doing something no other titled gentleman would do -- own a gambling hell, but now that he's rich, what other purpose does he have? Claire's sweetness and understanding convinced him that angels like her do exist, but an internal fear that stemmed from his manipulative mother withholding his courage to grasp at love.
A point of interest is the juxtaposition of Nathan and Claire's unhappy pasts to the general tone of jolliness and fun, a dash of darkness in a pot of sweet syrup. While in some works I would consider this an uneven tone, in this it served to bring out the complexity of the story and the characters. These two are not just two people traveling together who found lust and love. rather they are two individuals who have been trying to complete the missing puzzle in their lives when suddenly realizing that it was another piece they've been missing all along. For all their insecurities that stemmed from internal unrest, they were honest and heartfelt with each other, and learned to truly love. And while the mystery of Nathan's father was easily apparent to the discerning reader, it served a greater purpose in bringing the end surprise to our protagonists, which also wrought some tears from my eyes.
To summarize, I came to this with a little trepidation and the book surprised me with its depth, intricate fluctuations in tone, and mesmerizing characters whose hearts are as expressive as their persons. Sharon Cullen writes with a subtle flourish that not only captures the elegant beauty of France and Italy, but the sweet journey of two people finding more than they sought on a grand quest for individuality and metaphysical freedom.
*Review copy from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
Originally posted on: Buried Under Romance
At first glance, the story comes off lighthearted and silly, Lady Claire Addison, widowed Viscountess Chesterman, sought to escape the clutches of her loving but protective family and travel to the Continent, to experience her long-awaited adventure. En route to her first stop, Paris, she encounters her older brother's best friend Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, who happened to be tasked with ensuring her safety on this trip. My first complement to the author is in not making their prior acquaintance a mystery to be revealed much later on, as that often necessitates unnecessary angst in the case with mistaken - or unknown - identities. Rather, Claire recognized Nathan on sight, and he found out her identity as the one he was tasked to look after soon after. But of course, no good trip is ever without danger; as highwaymen, thieves, and painful pasts catch up to Claire and Nathan, can they overcome their own insecurities and come to embrace love?
I have to admit, Claire's personality bothered me in the beginning -- her intrepid persona seemed at odds with her status as a respectable widow and one who is not in the first blush of youth. Her naivety, while hilariously charming, did make me question the extent to which she knows about the world, which apparently is a minuscule amount (She was tricked out of most of her belongings, after all). It was likely the sensation of finally being free from a cage that allowed her personality to burst forth uninhabited; the lightness of spirit she exhibits as an unconscious rebellion against the staid mask she wore during the constant abuse of her husband Richard. But even through that horror, Claire emerged victorious, resilient and with a zest to experience the life she's been missing, albeit swearing not to ever marry again.
Nathan is a honorable hero who is at once comfortable and at odds with himself. His quest was to discover the truth of his father's death, and along the journey from France to Italy, he came to question his own goals in life. Sure, he struggled to restore the family coffers by doing something no other titled gentleman would do -- own a gambling hell, but now that he's rich, what other purpose does he have? Claire's sweetness and understanding convinced him that angels like her do exist, but an internal fear that stemmed from his manipulative mother withholding his courage to grasp at love.
A point of interest is the juxtaposition of Nathan and Claire's unhappy pasts to the general tone of jolliness and fun, a dash of darkness in a pot of sweet syrup. While in some works I would consider this an uneven tone, in this it served to bring out the complexity of the story and the characters. These two are not just two people traveling together who found lust and love. rather they are two individuals who have been trying to complete the missing puzzle in their lives when suddenly realizing that it was another piece they've been missing all along. For all their insecurities that stemmed from internal unrest, they were honest and heartfelt with each other, and learned to truly love. And while the mystery of Nathan's father was easily apparent to the discerning reader, it served a greater purpose in bringing the end surprise to our protagonists, which also wrought some tears from my eyes.
To summarize, I came to this with a little trepidation and the book surprised me with its depth, intricate fluctuations in tone, and mesmerizing characters whose hearts are as expressive as their persons. Sharon Cullen writes with a subtle flourish that not only captures the elegant beauty of France and Italy, but the sweet journey of two people finding more than they sought on a grand quest for individuality and metaphysical freedom.
*Review copy from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
Originally posted on: Buried Under Romance
August 3, 2016
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book and absolutely fell in love with Claire and Nathan. These characters are captivating and have wonderful chemistry, but I also found the suspense and intrigue exciting as well. The events are well paced, and the romance built very nicely in the way that I expect to read in historical romance. Overall, this was a fantastic read and I can't wait to read more from this author.
*I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
*I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
May 20, 2014
Despite the Half-a-Face Man Boob Cover and cheesy blurb I purchased this book on the recommendation of a friend. I'm glad I did. I enjoyed every single page of this romantic adventure. I laughed, giggled and once or twice might have snorted in an unladylike manner. [Please, don’t tell my mother!]
I was with Claire Hartford, Lady Chesterman, the whole way, rooting for her to rise up and claim her life, to see the changes she was demanding of herself and the world. Because it was true, not her vicious husband’s death or that platitude time could set her free. Claire had to take her freedom with both hands using what courage she could fan to life. She was as afraid that it was too late as she was that there was nothing left of her courage and well, zest for life. Every step forward, she felt jerked to a stop and wondered if she'd finally gone too far, would the hope die too.
Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, understood the need to gamble on a better life, and was the perfect traveling companion, precisely because he did irritate, frustrate but never did he underestimate - at least not after the second time she eluded him. He made mistakes, wasn't perfect and yet, he never discarded his kindness or compassion. Nathan was not only ready for answers about his past but he was more than ready to get on with his future. He’d restored the family fortune, repaired the family domain and accepted the price he paid was of his choosing. Meeting Claire when he did, in transition from old life to new, his heart wasn’t as guarded and so she slipped in well, not gently, but she arrived before he realized self-defense was probably pointless.
Without conscious intention, he assisted Claire in focusing on just what she wanted for herself at the end of her adventure and as is often the case, did the same regarding his own future. They were both courageous despite the odds and combined, they were a formidable couple.
The plot was believable because these characters made it so. I could see a woman tired of cowering under the tyranny of her late husband and all the admiration he carried, spurred on by family emphasis on perfection throwing all caution to the wind. That she felt if not now, when was made clear without resorting to endless internal monologue, just enough mantra and "I can do this," was provided to catch the spirit, in my opinion. Ms. Cullen obviously knows breaking free is not one giant leap but many, oh so darn many, baby steps, over and over. I appreciated the glimpses of that instead of a *magik wand of lurv* that cures all doubts and repairs all hurts.
The writing was well handled, from both view points. Sentence fragments were used well - just as a person tends to think - but not overdone so they became annoying. Observing each other first warily, then grudgingly and finally with genuine admiration, they allow awareness of themselves to lead them to an awakening of the other. It was delightful to hear them work through their doubts, independently and together.
Dialog was amusing and felt real even when one or the other drew back. From the beginning they both respected the other’s boundaries during the verbal sparring and I truly, truly enjoyed that about this book! Secondary characters were there but not overwhelming, even if they felt that way to Claire. The mystery was a nice twist and the conclusion somewhat surprising but not distracting.
Their intimacy was not rushed, was realistic for time and situation, and in a rare twist of trope, grounded them both in a better reality. Uncertainty exists even after the UST is resolved, but this couple [omigosh] discussed their feelings, considered more than the moment, and didn’t toss the gift of connection out the window with the morning after wash water. Even so, they were forced to struggle a bit to reach the conclusion I was certain they would.
I keep skipping around because this is a book I totally do *not* want to give even one spoiler for. READ the sample pages, you’ll not be disappointed with the rest of the book. Oh, and best of all, there is No Epilog!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you Ms. Cullen; I can endure Man Boob cover in exchange for the lovely sigh at the end and those precious post-book moments where *my* imagination carries on in a blissful haze.
Read more of my ruminations at Page Traveler E-Book Reviews
I was with Claire Hartford, Lady Chesterman, the whole way, rooting for her to rise up and claim her life, to see the changes she was demanding of herself and the world. Because it was true, not her vicious husband’s death or that platitude time could set her free. Claire had to take her freedom with both hands using what courage she could fan to life. She was as afraid that it was too late as she was that there was nothing left of her courage and well, zest for life. Every step forward, she felt jerked to a stop and wondered if she'd finally gone too far, would the hope die too.
Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, understood the need to gamble on a better life, and was the perfect traveling companion, precisely because he did irritate, frustrate but never did he underestimate - at least not after the second time she eluded him. He made mistakes, wasn't perfect and yet, he never discarded his kindness or compassion. Nathan was not only ready for answers about his past but he was more than ready to get on with his future. He’d restored the family fortune, repaired the family domain and accepted the price he paid was of his choosing. Meeting Claire when he did, in transition from old life to new, his heart wasn’t as guarded and so she slipped in well, not gently, but she arrived before he realized self-defense was probably pointless.
Without conscious intention, he assisted Claire in focusing on just what she wanted for herself at the end of her adventure and as is often the case, did the same regarding his own future. They were both courageous despite the odds and combined, they were a formidable couple.
The plot was believable because these characters made it so. I could see a woman tired of cowering under the tyranny of her late husband and all the admiration he carried, spurred on by family emphasis on perfection throwing all caution to the wind. That she felt if not now, when was made clear without resorting to endless internal monologue, just enough mantra and "I can do this," was provided to catch the spirit, in my opinion. Ms. Cullen obviously knows breaking free is not one giant leap but many, oh so darn many, baby steps, over and over. I appreciated the glimpses of that instead of a *magik wand of lurv* that cures all doubts and repairs all hurts.
The writing was well handled, from both view points. Sentence fragments were used well - just as a person tends to think - but not overdone so they became annoying. Observing each other first warily, then grudgingly and finally with genuine admiration, they allow awareness of themselves to lead them to an awakening of the other. It was delightful to hear them work through their doubts, independently and together.
Dialog was amusing and felt real even when one or the other drew back. From the beginning they both respected the other’s boundaries during the verbal sparring and I truly, truly enjoyed that about this book! Secondary characters were there but not overwhelming, even if they felt that way to Claire. The mystery was a nice twist and the conclusion somewhat surprising but not distracting.
Their intimacy was not rushed, was realistic for time and situation, and in a rare twist of trope, grounded them both in a better reality. Uncertainty exists even after the UST is resolved, but this couple [omigosh] discussed their feelings, considered more than the moment, and didn’t toss the gift of connection out the window with the morning after wash water. Even so, they were forced to struggle a bit to reach the conclusion I was certain they would.
I keep skipping around because this is a book I totally do *not* want to give even one spoiler for. READ the sample pages, you’ll not be disappointed with the rest of the book. Oh, and best of all, there is No Epilog!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you Ms. Cullen; I can endure Man Boob cover in exchange for the lovely sigh at the end and those precious post-book moments where *my* imagination carries on in a blissful haze.
Read more of my ruminations at Page Traveler E-Book Reviews
October 11, 2013
This one, provided by the publisher through netgalley, was pleasant enough, but ultimately failed to really inspire much interest, which is always a bit disappointing.
What did I like?
- The plot was somewhat different. A heroine finally summons the courage to just live after years of repression and well-meaning, but overbearing, concern. She had a pretty rotten time of things, but remains much more than a shadow of herself, and this evolves quite nicely as the book progresses. The plot also takes place over a journey across Europe, which is hardly ever included in historical romances but really, was a very common occurrence during the time period.
- This was actually one of a series, but I didn't know that up-front, and honestly, it didn't minimize my enjoyment or ruin the book for me at all. It focused totally on the story at hand, not on the stories before or after, apart from one or two mentions which were needed to prod the plot along.
- The writing is fairly good. There's no ridiculously stupid errors, nobody doing really silly things, and no significant errors of historical accuracy (apart from referring to the King as "His Grace" instead of "His Majesty" - a Duke is referred to as "His Grace"... which is absolutely minimal, but it's a bit of an issue with me)
What didn't I like so much?
Well, the plot and the story are pretty decent, if formulaic, but really this summed up the whole book. The settings, the characters, even down to their physical appearances, were all far too similar to those I've read a hundred times before, and even though there was nothing offensive in this I find as a result it all felt a bit blah.
The hero is tall, big, dark and handsome, the heroine is all flashy green eyes and bright red hair and a gorgeous body (how often have I read that recently - I'm sure the genetic predisposition to green eyes/red hair in the general population isn't as high as all that..). She's suffered her way through an abusive marriage and is essentially dramatically over-protected by her brothers, but she's a strong person underneath all that, and they can't keep their hands off each other etc. etc. etc.
Now, this is just fine for an easy read on the beach, when you don't really want to have to concentrate too hard to keep track of the plot after over-indulging in the pina coladas the evening before, but for your average romance reader, who has read a few romances, there are similar books, with similar plots and more interesting bits than this one. It just came across as nothing special to me.
So 3 stars. I liked it, but nothing more.
What did I like?
- The plot was somewhat different. A heroine finally summons the courage to just live after years of repression and well-meaning, but overbearing, concern. She had a pretty rotten time of things, but remains much more than a shadow of herself, and this evolves quite nicely as the book progresses. The plot also takes place over a journey across Europe, which is hardly ever included in historical romances but really, was a very common occurrence during the time period.
- This was actually one of a series, but I didn't know that up-front, and honestly, it didn't minimize my enjoyment or ruin the book for me at all. It focused totally on the story at hand, not on the stories before or after, apart from one or two mentions which were needed to prod the plot along.
- The writing is fairly good. There's no ridiculously stupid errors, nobody doing really silly things, and no significant errors of historical accuracy (apart from referring to the King as "His Grace" instead of "His Majesty" - a Duke is referred to as "His Grace"... which is absolutely minimal, but it's a bit of an issue with me)
What didn't I like so much?
Well, the plot and the story are pretty decent, if formulaic, but really this summed up the whole book. The settings, the characters, even down to their physical appearances, were all far too similar to those I've read a hundred times before, and even though there was nothing offensive in this I find as a result it all felt a bit blah.
The hero is tall, big, dark and handsome, the heroine is all flashy green eyes and bright red hair and a gorgeous body (how often have I read that recently - I'm sure the genetic predisposition to green eyes/red hair in the general population isn't as high as all that..). She's suffered her way through an abusive marriage and is essentially dramatically over-protected by her brothers, but she's a strong person underneath all that, and they can't keep their hands off each other etc. etc. etc.
Now, this is just fine for an easy read on the beach, when you don't really want to have to concentrate too hard to keep track of the plot after over-indulging in the pina coladas the evening before, but for your average romance reader, who has read a few romances, there are similar books, with similar plots and more interesting bits than this one. It just came across as nothing special to me.
So 3 stars. I liked it, but nothing more.
April 23, 2017
I received a copy of this story from Net Galley for an honest review.
I like to read reviews that give it to me straight, so here goes...
The Hero was misunderstood and the heroine was recovering from a bad previous marriage. The hero is strong, rich and swoon worthy. The heroine is beautiful and wants to be independent. She is also trying to get back to being the person she once was. There is conflict, mystery, misunderstandings and always angsty bits. There is lust and sexy bits. No cheating and a Happy Ever After.
This story had everything I love and expect in a Historical Romance. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I like to read reviews that give it to me straight, so here goes...
The Hero was misunderstood and the heroine was recovering from a bad previous marriage. The hero is strong, rich and swoon worthy. The heroine is beautiful and wants to be independent. She is also trying to get back to being the person she once was. There is conflict, mystery, misunderstandings and always angsty bits. There is lust and sexy bits. No cheating and a Happy Ever After.
This story had everything I love and expect in a Historical Romance. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
October 4, 2013
I loved every single part of this book. I have not read the others in the series but this was fine as a stand alone. The characters were wonderfully laid out, explained, examined. The chemistry between the two main characters was unmistakable and beautiful. This wasn't just an historical romance. This was full of intrigue and suspense as well. The story was just fantastic and the characters memorable.
May 9, 2016
Secrets, seduction, passion, adventure.
Marry never again. But take a lover? Adventure was just over the next continent. Claire was determined to live her life. First thing was to take a lover, but this lover was not near. She had to travel to get this lover and along the way she meets sexy, dashing, mysterious Nathan.
I found this read to be fun, flirty and filled with passion, mystery, secrets, seduction, and an adventure that Claire will not soon forget.
Marry never again. But take a lover? Adventure was just over the next continent. Claire was determined to live her life. First thing was to take a lover, but this lover was not near. She had to travel to get this lover and along the way she meets sexy, dashing, mysterious Nathan.
I found this read to be fun, flirty and filled with passion, mystery, secrets, seduction, and an adventure that Claire will not soon forget.
Read
December 29, 2015A woman looking for a lover........enough said
November 16, 2013
Praise for Sharon Cullen: “Sharon Cullen is a natural-born storyteller. Her twists and turns will keep you turning the pages.” Margo Maguire, bestselling author of The Highlander’s Desire
About the Author: Sharon Cullen is an author who enjoys writing romance, whether it is romantic suspense, paranormal romance, historical romance or contemporary romance. Loving the Earl is a sequel to The Notorious Lady Ann. Her newest book will be out February 2014 titled, Pleasing the Pirate. A list of her books can be found on her web site. http://sharoncullen.net/
About The Story: Lady Claire Hartford, Viscountess Chesterman, thought marriage would provide her a tolerable amount of independence, more than her brother had given her. How wrong she had been. She went from an overprotective brother to an overbearing husband who gave the impression, by lavishing jewels upon her, that their marriage was a suitable and loving one. But she knew better. Her husband told her if she were to tell anyone, he would destroy her brother and do irreparable harm to her family. After all, he had the ear of the King. So with that she kept her silence. She appeared to be the demure, biddable wife, but within she burned, BURNED, for her freedom, not to be controlled, to be able to make her own choices. She didn’t want marriage if that’s what it was all about. But then her husband suddenly died in a horse accident. She was free, but could she free herself from the awful memories?
Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, knew he was a rogue. Everyone knew it. After all, he had ruined his family’s reputation. When his father had died mysteriously on a mountain top in Switzerland, he left them penniless. It was up to Nathan to save the family. He did what he could. He was good at cards, better than good, and used that skill in filling the coffers of his family. He owned a gambling house, a place he could take men’s money legally. Yes, he was a scoundrel. In saving his family from financial ruin, he was ruined--no longer part of good society. He knew that he had lost his chance of a good marriage and family. He had done what he had to do.
Lord Nathan received a letter written by an unknown asking him if he’d like to know how his father died. He couldn’t pass up the opportunity to find out. He needed to travel to Paris and get there on an appointed date. His only friend, Sebastian Addison, asked him to keep an eye out for his sister. They would be on the same ship. He just had to make sure she made it to Calais. But once the ship docked in Calais, how could he walk away from her when she was standing alone on the dock? And where was her maid?
Lady Claire had a glib tongue and was able to hide her circumstances, even apparently from herself. Her small suitcase with the letters of introduction and bank vouchers were stolen while in England, her maid had run off, and at Lord Blythe’s appearance someone was in the process of removing the rest of her luggage from her possession.
He was torn between trying to keep Lady Claire safe, safe from others and safe from herself and to see if he can find out the particulars of his father’s death. Rather than getting her to return to England, she eventually obliges him to travel to Paris with her.
Below is an excerpt of the story when Lady Claire finds herself locked in a room, mind you, for her own protection. Her actions were neither demure nor biddable. At this point, I fell in love with the heroine.
Quote:
The door opened farther and he shuffled in. Claire swung with all her might, putting every bit of muscle into it, like all those times that she and her brothers played with sticks and balls in their mother’s garden.
The vase whistled through the air and landed on Blythe’s skull with a solid thunk.
He went down to his knees, stayed there for what appeared to be a long time, then slowly fell forward. A tray dropped from his hand, dishes scattered every which way. Food splattered. Tea spilled.
Claire dropped her weapon and quickly closed the door. The man—who was most certainly not Lord Blythe—was wearing the red and silver livery of the Marquis de Marchant.
“Oh dear. On my. Oh no. Oh. Oh.” She knocked out a servant.
She dropped to her knees to place a hand on the man’s head and felt a large lump forming behind his ear.
“Oh my goodness.” She closed her eyes in mortification. The poor man. All he was doing was bringing her food and drink and she struck him.
She stood, looked down on him, looked at the closed—unlocked—door, then back at the man. She bit the corner of her lip. Well, it couldn’t be helped. He was already unconscious and the door was open.
She yanked the bedsheets from the bed and grabbed a few pillows. Gingerly she rolled him over, relieved to see that he was breathing normally and his eyes were fluttering beneath closed lids. Hopefully that meant he was coming round. But not too soon.
Carefully she lifted his head and cushioned it with the pillows, wincing when he bled on the expensive fabric. Then she covered him with the blankets. Standing, she looked down at him, hands on her hips, and nodded. He appeared to be sleeping peacefully.
On the floor.
In the middle of the room.
With a broken tea service scattered around.
My Thoughts: What appears to be a light-hearted story, and certainly there are many light-hearted moments, has more depth. Lady Claire learns that people and situations are not always what they appear. She learns that what she may think she needs and wants isn’t at all what she really does. She learns that men aren’t all bad. She just needed to find the one that would allow her to be her. She learns that she is stronger and more capable than she thought.
Lord Nathan thought only the worse of himself; he let society decide what kind of man he was. But the reader finds he has worth and acts honorably when he surely needn’t. He is changed by his journey with Lady Claire.
Sharon Cullen has written a wonderful story full of adventure, romance and mystery. Her love of writing in all these genre has created a marvelous story that will delight many.
About the Author: Sharon Cullen is an author who enjoys writing romance, whether it is romantic suspense, paranormal romance, historical romance or contemporary romance. Loving the Earl is a sequel to The Notorious Lady Ann. Her newest book will be out February 2014 titled, Pleasing the Pirate. A list of her books can be found on her web site. http://sharoncullen.net/
About The Story: Lady Claire Hartford, Viscountess Chesterman, thought marriage would provide her a tolerable amount of independence, more than her brother had given her. How wrong she had been. She went from an overprotective brother to an overbearing husband who gave the impression, by lavishing jewels upon her, that their marriage was a suitable and loving one. But she knew better. Her husband told her if she were to tell anyone, he would destroy her brother and do irreparable harm to her family. After all, he had the ear of the King. So with that she kept her silence. She appeared to be the demure, biddable wife, but within she burned, BURNED, for her freedom, not to be controlled, to be able to make her own choices. She didn’t want marriage if that’s what it was all about. But then her husband suddenly died in a horse accident. She was free, but could she free herself from the awful memories?
Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, knew he was a rogue. Everyone knew it. After all, he had ruined his family’s reputation. When his father had died mysteriously on a mountain top in Switzerland, he left them penniless. It was up to Nathan to save the family. He did what he could. He was good at cards, better than good, and used that skill in filling the coffers of his family. He owned a gambling house, a place he could take men’s money legally. Yes, he was a scoundrel. In saving his family from financial ruin, he was ruined--no longer part of good society. He knew that he had lost his chance of a good marriage and family. He had done what he had to do.
Lord Nathan received a letter written by an unknown asking him if he’d like to know how his father died. He couldn’t pass up the opportunity to find out. He needed to travel to Paris and get there on an appointed date. His only friend, Sebastian Addison, asked him to keep an eye out for his sister. They would be on the same ship. He just had to make sure she made it to Calais. But once the ship docked in Calais, how could he walk away from her when she was standing alone on the dock? And where was her maid?
Lady Claire had a glib tongue and was able to hide her circumstances, even apparently from herself. Her small suitcase with the letters of introduction and bank vouchers were stolen while in England, her maid had run off, and at Lord Blythe’s appearance someone was in the process of removing the rest of her luggage from her possession.
He was torn between trying to keep Lady Claire safe, safe from others and safe from herself and to see if he can find out the particulars of his father’s death. Rather than getting her to return to England, she eventually obliges him to travel to Paris with her.
Below is an excerpt of the story when Lady Claire finds herself locked in a room, mind you, for her own protection. Her actions were neither demure nor biddable. At this point, I fell in love with the heroine.
Quote:
The door opened farther and he shuffled in. Claire swung with all her might, putting every bit of muscle into it, like all those times that she and her brothers played with sticks and balls in their mother’s garden.
The vase whistled through the air and landed on Blythe’s skull with a solid thunk.
He went down to his knees, stayed there for what appeared to be a long time, then slowly fell forward. A tray dropped from his hand, dishes scattered every which way. Food splattered. Tea spilled.
Claire dropped her weapon and quickly closed the door. The man—who was most certainly not Lord Blythe—was wearing the red and silver livery of the Marquis de Marchant.
“Oh dear. On my. Oh no. Oh. Oh.” She knocked out a servant.
She dropped to her knees to place a hand on the man’s head and felt a large lump forming behind his ear.
“Oh my goodness.” She closed her eyes in mortification. The poor man. All he was doing was bringing her food and drink and she struck him.
She stood, looked down on him, looked at the closed—unlocked—door, then back at the man. She bit the corner of her lip. Well, it couldn’t be helped. He was already unconscious and the door was open.
She yanked the bedsheets from the bed and grabbed a few pillows. Gingerly she rolled him over, relieved to see that he was breathing normally and his eyes were fluttering beneath closed lids. Hopefully that meant he was coming round. But not too soon.
Carefully she lifted his head and cushioned it with the pillows, wincing when he bled on the expensive fabric. Then she covered him with the blankets. Standing, she looked down at him, hands on her hips, and nodded. He appeared to be sleeping peacefully.
On the floor.
In the middle of the room.
With a broken tea service scattered around.
My Thoughts: What appears to be a light-hearted story, and certainly there are many light-hearted moments, has more depth. Lady Claire learns that people and situations are not always what they appear. She learns that what she may think she needs and wants isn’t at all what she really does. She learns that men aren’t all bad. She just needed to find the one that would allow her to be her. She learns that she is stronger and more capable than she thought.
Lord Nathan thought only the worse of himself; he let society decide what kind of man he was. But the reader finds he has worth and acts honorably when he surely needn’t. He is changed by his journey with Lady Claire.
Sharon Cullen has written a wonderful story full of adventure, romance and mystery. Her love of writing in all these genre has created a marvelous story that will delight many.
January 21, 2014
There are so many romance authors out there that I am always reading one that I haven't ever read. This is my first book by author Sharon Cullen, but it won't be my last. I enjoyed Loving the Earl enough to read more of her books if I get a chance.
Loving the Earl, isn't unique to the romance genre, but it was still an enjoyable romance. Claire, Countess Chesterman, had a horrible marriage to a beast of a man. He was seen to be one of the most respectable men, but at home he was nothing more than a wife beater. Now he is dead and Claire has decided that she is going to have an adventure and find an Italian lover. It has more to do with her insecurieties built up by a horrible husband who told her she was unlovable and disgusting. So she is first going to go and visit Paris, France and then from there to her friend in Venice, Italy.
Claire is ready to board the ship when her maid decides she doesn't want to go and runs away. This leaves her unchaperoned, but she is determined to have her adventure so she gets on the ship anyway. She runs straight into Lord Blythe and realizes it is one of her brothers rakish friends.
Nathan, Lord Blythe, doesn't recognize Claire at first because she looks different than he remembers. He was on his way to France anyway when his friend ask him to make sure his sister gets to France safely. He doesn't want to do it but he does it anyway and then he finds out that she is without a chaperon and makes his duty to either see her safely to Paris or send her back to England. What he wasn't looking for was for Claire to get under his skin, she was infuriating but at the same time impressive.
Claire has quite a few mishaps on her adventure, her bag with her letters of recommendation are stolen among some other things that happen. She is still determined that she can be independent and doesn't need to be chaperoned by Lord Blythe. He is a rogue, he gambles, drinks and he is everything she thinks is very improper. But as they travel together she soon realizes that he might be improper, but he never once has been horrible to her. She realizes that Nathan puts up this rough exterior but on the inside he is kind.
Claire is looking for a lover and when Nathan finds out he offers to be that lover but Claire doesn't want that. Claire has set off to find an Italian lover not another English lord. Nathan can't believe that this spunky countess that can be so irritating could start to get to him in ways no other woman has before. He doesn't want to want her but he does and he will do everything to convince her that he is the only lover she needs.
There is a bit of a mystery surrounding the death of Nathan's father, which is why he was on his way to France in the first place. It's sort of a side plot in the story and lends a little mystery and danger to the story. I enjoyed both of the main characters in the story which makes the book more enjoyable. Claire is naive but spunky and I had to give her credit for that as she really wanted to be independent. Nathan, is sexy and sweet even though he tries to put on this rough exterior. Over all it was a typical romance but I still enjoyed it. For those who like steamy romances I would say that the last half of the book was a little steamy, so if you like that kind of thing then you will like this novel
Loving the Earl, isn't unique to the romance genre, but it was still an enjoyable romance. Claire, Countess Chesterman, had a horrible marriage to a beast of a man. He was seen to be one of the most respectable men, but at home he was nothing more than a wife beater. Now he is dead and Claire has decided that she is going to have an adventure and find an Italian lover. It has more to do with her insecurieties built up by a horrible husband who told her she was unlovable and disgusting. So she is first going to go and visit Paris, France and then from there to her friend in Venice, Italy.
Claire is ready to board the ship when her maid decides she doesn't want to go and runs away. This leaves her unchaperoned, but she is determined to have her adventure so she gets on the ship anyway. She runs straight into Lord Blythe and realizes it is one of her brothers rakish friends.
Nathan, Lord Blythe, doesn't recognize Claire at first because she looks different than he remembers. He was on his way to France anyway when his friend ask him to make sure his sister gets to France safely. He doesn't want to do it but he does it anyway and then he finds out that she is without a chaperon and makes his duty to either see her safely to Paris or send her back to England. What he wasn't looking for was for Claire to get under his skin, she was infuriating but at the same time impressive.
Claire has quite a few mishaps on her adventure, her bag with her letters of recommendation are stolen among some other things that happen. She is still determined that she can be independent and doesn't need to be chaperoned by Lord Blythe. He is a rogue, he gambles, drinks and he is everything she thinks is very improper. But as they travel together she soon realizes that he might be improper, but he never once has been horrible to her. She realizes that Nathan puts up this rough exterior but on the inside he is kind.
Claire is looking for a lover and when Nathan finds out he offers to be that lover but Claire doesn't want that. Claire has set off to find an Italian lover not another English lord. Nathan can't believe that this spunky countess that can be so irritating could start to get to him in ways no other woman has before. He doesn't want to want her but he does and he will do everything to convince her that he is the only lover she needs.
There is a bit of a mystery surrounding the death of Nathan's father, which is why he was on his way to France in the first place. It's sort of a side plot in the story and lends a little mystery and danger to the story. I enjoyed both of the main characters in the story which makes the book more enjoyable. Claire is naive but spunky and I had to give her credit for that as she really wanted to be independent. Nathan, is sexy and sweet even though he tries to put on this rough exterior. Over all it was a typical romance but I still enjoyed it. For those who like steamy romances I would say that the last half of the book was a little steamy, so if you like that kind of thing then you will like this novel
June 27, 2017
This was a fun read! Claire Hartford a spunky heroine tired of the strictures of her times and living under the thumb of the men in her life. She sets out to prove her independence by having a solo adventure in France and Italy. Problem is her oldest brother Sebastian is on to her and asks his good friend, Nathaniel Ferguson, Lord Blythe to discreetly look after her. Nathan is a rogue, a gambler, a drunk and a shameless womanizer and the last one who should be asked to look after the safety of a lone woman. Yet, because Sebastian may be the one man in England Nathan actually cares what he thinks of him, he agrees to watch out for Claire. Claire wants nothing to do with Nathan, or any man, getting in the way of her long deserved freedom and is constantly trying (and failing) to escape him. He ends up not only seeing her safely to Calais as her brother asked of him, but on to Paris and then Venice. Their journey together is filled with the adventure Claire was looking for as they encounter thieves, highwaymen, a peasant uprising, a blizzard, and all while battling their intense attraction to each other. Neither wants to conform to the rules of society by ever considering an accepted relationship and neither likes the other all that much, but the sexual chemistry and tension between them is off the charts. I loved Nathan and his honest approach to what he was, what he wanted and what he could offer. And that includes when they finally got down to it he was quite the dirty talker *fans herself*. Claire was on a determined mission to prove to herself she didn't need a man yet planning to do so by seeking out a man to find affirmation? She was a hot mess who constantly found herself in a bad situation due to her naiveté, but was actually very creative at rescuing herself. Claire was an admirable heroine because she came from a dark situation with a determination to take charge of her own future. A very progressive woman for her time and as frustrating as she could be for Nathan he could not help but like her for her strength, okay and the fact that he found her beautiful didn't hurt. All in all LOVING THE EARL was a fun read with well great plotting, witty banter, great sexual chemistry between the H/H, a hot hero, and a sassy heroine that I highly recommend!
*I Received this ebook free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*I Received this ebook free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2014
Originally reviewed for: Historical Romance Lover blog
This is book two in her series starring Claire whom we met in The Notorious Lady Anne.
After the death of her physically and emotionally abusive husband, Claire Hartford is ready for an adventure. She is headed to Italy to find herself an Italian lover. Trying to get out from under the careful watch of her brother, she schedules her departure on a ship not in his fleet. Unfortunately for her, Claire's brother has found out and instead of stopping her, he has sent his best friend to keep an eye on her.
Nathan Ferguson will do anything for his best friend, even watch over his wayward sister. He manages to tag along with Claire without her knowing that he is keeping an eye out for her.
Because of one mishap after another, Nathan and Claire end up traveling to Italy together. Nathan is after some answers to his father's death and that brings some trouble to their door.
Of course during their journey, they start to feel an attraction to each other. Claire gets her lover, but he is not Italian. Will she seek out another when they reach their destination? How will Claire feel when she finds out that Nathan was looking out for her at the request of her brother?
This is the second book that I have read by Sharon Cullen and once again I absolutely loved it! Although it is not necessary to have read the previous book before starting this one, it does kind of give you insight into how Claire's marriage has changed her. I love when historical novels take me away from England. It allows me to "visit" other places in Europe. The novel also had the added mystery of the death of Nathan's father. He had always been told it had been an accident, but a letter he has received indicates otherwise. This bit of mystery, just adds that something extra to the story and really makes it an excellent book.
Thanks go to NetGalley and Loveswept for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
This is book two in her series starring Claire whom we met in The Notorious Lady Anne.
After the death of her physically and emotionally abusive husband, Claire Hartford is ready for an adventure. She is headed to Italy to find herself an Italian lover. Trying to get out from under the careful watch of her brother, she schedules her departure on a ship not in his fleet. Unfortunately for her, Claire's brother has found out and instead of stopping her, he has sent his best friend to keep an eye on her.
Nathan Ferguson will do anything for his best friend, even watch over his wayward sister. He manages to tag along with Claire without her knowing that he is keeping an eye out for her.
Because of one mishap after another, Nathan and Claire end up traveling to Italy together. Nathan is after some answers to his father's death and that brings some trouble to their door.
Of course during their journey, they start to feel an attraction to each other. Claire gets her lover, but he is not Italian. Will she seek out another when they reach their destination? How will Claire feel when she finds out that Nathan was looking out for her at the request of her brother?
This is the second book that I have read by Sharon Cullen and once again I absolutely loved it! Although it is not necessary to have read the previous book before starting this one, it does kind of give you insight into how Claire's marriage has changed her. I love when historical novels take me away from England. It allows me to "visit" other places in Europe. The novel also had the added mystery of the death of Nathan's father. He had always been told it had been an accident, but a letter he has received indicates otherwise. This bit of mystery, just adds that something extra to the story and really makes it an excellent book.
Thanks go to NetGalley and Loveswept for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
November 14, 2013
Claire want to have an adventure after her horrible husband dies. She wants to go abroad to find a lover with no strings attached and no worries about it ruining her reputation in society. She runs across Lord Blythe on the ship and is immediately is attracted to him. Nathan didn't want to watch out for his friend's sister and was expecting her to be easy to watch. She seems to be getting into all kinds of trouble. He is on another mission and that is to find out the truth about his fathers death. The two can't fight what is between them and soon begin a passionate journey. One not without danger. Can a woman vowing never to love again and a man who never expected to marry work things out or will something come between them.
Claire has been broken down and never let anyone know about her problems. She is beautiful and doesn't see that. She is very good at getting out of jams. She doesn't want to be ruled by anyone again. Nathan is not the most reputable man but he has built up what he has from nothing. He just has to know what happened to his father and won't give up his mission for anything. He is a very truthful man and hates when he has to hide anything.
I really enjoyed reading about both these characters and their journey. It is a look into a fascinating time with two people who don't like to live by the set rules. You get to see several different place as they make their way and it is wonderful to see them all. I have to say I wouldn't mind being in a carriage with Nathan. There is danger as Claire doesn't think before she does some things and trust people to easy. I hated her husband and bad to say I was glad he was dead. He was a horrible person. Nathan makes quite a few discoveries on hos trip about his father and his self. The more he gets to know Claire the more he will do anything to protect her. I love how hot this book is as well. They have lots of chemistry between them. If you like historical romance with a great plot be sure to pick this one up.
Claire has been broken down and never let anyone know about her problems. She is beautiful and doesn't see that. She is very good at getting out of jams. She doesn't want to be ruled by anyone again. Nathan is not the most reputable man but he has built up what he has from nothing. He just has to know what happened to his father and won't give up his mission for anything. He is a very truthful man and hates when he has to hide anything.
I really enjoyed reading about both these characters and their journey. It is a look into a fascinating time with two people who don't like to live by the set rules. You get to see several different place as they make their way and it is wonderful to see them all. I have to say I wouldn't mind being in a carriage with Nathan. There is danger as Claire doesn't think before she does some things and trust people to easy. I hated her husband and bad to say I was glad he was dead. He was a horrible person. Nathan makes quite a few discoveries on hos trip about his father and his self. The more he gets to know Claire the more he will do anything to protect her. I love how hot this book is as well. They have lots of chemistry between them. If you like historical romance with a great plot be sure to pick this one up.
April 23, 2014
Sharon CullenDo you like books that have rakes of the first order? What about a story with mystery and intrigue? How about sexy fireside love scenes? Well, I have got a book for you!!
Lady Claire Hartford used to be hellion and always getting into trouble. Her biggest problem growing up was being smothered by her overbearing, over protective and arrogant brothers, Sebastian and Nicholas. When she marries her husband, Richard, her life becomes a living hell. For 5 long years, he mentally and physical abused her. Now she is a widow and finally free to live her life HER WAY with no MEN telling her what to do! Claire is going to tour Europe and visit her friend, Lady Gabrielle Marciano, in Italy. She hopes Gabrielle can help her find an Italian lover.
Nathan Ferguson, Earl of Blythe, is a gambler, a sworn whiskey drinker, one of London's biggest rakes and an owner of a famous gambling hell. He has very few friends and Sebastian is one of his oldest. Nathan receives a mysterious letter saying that his father death was not an accident and he must go to Paris to get the answers. Sebastian asked him to make sure his sister gets to France safely and he agrees.
This great misadventure has so many twists and turns. There is 2 lost maids, stolen money, a robbery, steamy scenes, a kidnapping, whiskey drinking, a secret society, an angry mob, more steamy scenes, a spy, an evil villain, and even a blizzard. Claire discovers that Nathan hides his loving and gentle heart. Nathan sees Claire as a spunky, strong and courageous woman. Ms. Cullen writes with such humor, unsuspected situations, fast paced action and I couldn't put it down. Claire was a vulnerable character but Ms. Cullen gave her such inner strength. She also use her signature GIRL POWER!! I give this book 4 fingers up and 8 toes.
Reviewed from a NetGalley ARC.
July 29, 2014
**In Sharon Cullen’s sizzling novel of scandal and seduction, a headstrong beauty is pursued across Europe by London’s most notorious rake.**
Having vowed never to wed again, widowed viscountess Claire Hartford is about to do the unthinkable: travel unaccompanied across the continent in search of a lover. Her adventure begins sooner than expected, when she meets a magnificent cloaked stranger on her ship’s gangplank. He is Lord Blythe, a man whispered about in London’s ballrooms and drawing rooms, a scandalous rogue hell-bent on seduction.
Nathan Ferguson curses the day he agreed to look out for his best friend’s wayward sister. The charismatic earl is traveling to Paris to uncover the truth behind his father’s death, but his desire for Claire threatens to be his undoing. From France to Italy, on a journey of passionate discovery and danger, Nathan is honor-bound to protect her—from himself most of all. What can he offer Claire? Only love, as he sets out to prove to the woman of his dreams that she belongs to him—body, heart, and soul.
** **
**Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: *Mistletoe and Magic, What Not to Bare,* and *After the Kiss.***
**Advance praise for *Loving the Earl***
“*Loving the Earl* is charming and fast-paced. It’s filled with passion, intrigue, a resourceful heroine you’ll love, and a delicious hero you’ll fall in love with. An absolute delight!”**—*New York Times* and *USA Today* bestselling author Jacquie D’Alessandro**
“Sharon Cullen is a natural-born storyteller. Her twists and turns will keep you turning the pages.”**—Margo Maguire, bestselling author of *The Highlander’s Desire
* * *
“With its bad-boy hero and spunky heroine, Sharon Cullen’s *Loving the Earl* is sure to please readers looking for more than the typical Regency come-out story. Intrigue and romance fuse seamlessly in this adventurous romp that takes the reader from Dover to Paris to Venice and finally to a sigh-worthy happily ever after.”**—Shana Galen, author of *True Spies***
Having vowed never to wed again, widowed viscountess Claire Hartford is about to do the unthinkable: travel unaccompanied across the continent in search of a lover. Her adventure begins sooner than expected, when she meets a magnificent cloaked stranger on her ship’s gangplank. He is Lord Blythe, a man whispered about in London’s ballrooms and drawing rooms, a scandalous rogue hell-bent on seduction.
Nathan Ferguson curses the day he agreed to look out for his best friend’s wayward sister. The charismatic earl is traveling to Paris to uncover the truth behind his father’s death, but his desire for Claire threatens to be his undoing. From France to Italy, on a journey of passionate discovery and danger, Nathan is honor-bound to protect her—from himself most of all. What can he offer Claire? Only love, as he sets out to prove to the woman of his dreams that she belongs to him—body, heart, and soul.
** **
**Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: *Mistletoe and Magic, What Not to Bare,* and *After the Kiss.***
**Advance praise for *Loving the Earl***
“*Loving the Earl* is charming and fast-paced. It’s filled with passion, intrigue, a resourceful heroine you’ll love, and a delicious hero you’ll fall in love with. An absolute delight!”**—*New York Times* and *USA Today* bestselling author Jacquie D’Alessandro**
“Sharon Cullen is a natural-born storyteller. Her twists and turns will keep you turning the pages.”**—Margo Maguire, bestselling author of *The Highlander’s Desire
* * *
“With its bad-boy hero and spunky heroine, Sharon Cullen’s *Loving the Earl* is sure to please readers looking for more than the typical Regency come-out story. Intrigue and romance fuse seamlessly in this adventurous romp that takes the reader from Dover to Paris to Venice and finally to a sigh-worthy happily ever after.”**—Shana Galen, author of *True Spies***
May 2, 2014
Loving The Earl is a story about widowed viscountess Claire Hartford, trying to find herself after an abusive and loveless marriage. Claire decided the only way to find herself was to leave her brothers' protection and travel on her own to Paris, France and Venice, Italy. Little was unknown to her that her brother Sebastian has asked his best friend, Nathan Ferguson,Lord Blythe, watch over Claire.
Nathan has his own personal business to attend to. After his father's death, he has seek his fortune in the most ungentlemanly way of running a gambling hall. When a mysteriously letter was delivered to him that his father's death is not an accidental, he decided to find the truth behind his father's death.
The beginning of the book begins slowly. Claire was desperate that her plan to travel alone remains a secret until the ship she is traveling on, left England. Throughout her journey with Nathan, she kept remembering how her decreased husband has abused her verbally and physically while keeping his perfect public figure persona to the King and society.
For Nathan, it was the question if he was worthy to court Claire. He has a gambler reputation that society frown upon. No reputable families would have their daughters married to him. Only those who are seeking a rich husband for their daughters would. Another thing is that Claire was his best friend's little sister.
It is quite a coincidence that both would be traveling to the same locations. Even in the story, the readers would be able to see that Claire would travel with Nathan willingly. There is also the factor that Nathan would kidnapped Claire to accompany him into order to keep an eye on Claire.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Nathan has his own personal business to attend to. After his father's death, he has seek his fortune in the most ungentlemanly way of running a gambling hall. When a mysteriously letter was delivered to him that his father's death is not an accidental, he decided to find the truth behind his father's death.
The beginning of the book begins slowly. Claire was desperate that her plan to travel alone remains a secret until the ship she is traveling on, left England. Throughout her journey with Nathan, she kept remembering how her decreased husband has abused her verbally and physically while keeping his perfect public figure persona to the King and society.
For Nathan, it was the question if he was worthy to court Claire. He has a gambler reputation that society frown upon. No reputable families would have their daughters married to him. Only those who are seeking a rich husband for their daughters would. Another thing is that Claire was his best friend's little sister.
It is quite a coincidence that both would be traveling to the same locations. Even in the story, the readers would be able to see that Claire would travel with Nathan willingly. There is also the factor that Nathan would kidnapped Claire to accompany him into order to keep an eye on Claire.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
February 3, 2014
I was addicted to this book from page one. The writing was seamless and the intrigue had me craving for more. Claire was in an abusive marriage. Now that she's a widow, she seeks an adventure to start fresh and to live by her own terms. Nathan, asked to watch over Claire by her brother, accompanies her on this journey. He has his own agenda, and that is to find out the truth to his father's demise. They travel through countries and mountains together as they search for the answers to heal their broken souls.
I loved that the author had me totally immersed; I could see everything happening as she told the story. I appreciate that the h&h did not fall instantly in love, or jump into bed together right away. We got to see their relationship grow and watch them figure out what they meant to each other. There was also a twist at the end that was a pleasant surprise but I would have enjoyed an epilogue to learn what became of the secondary characters.
As much as I loved this book, there was one thing that got to me. I get it that Claire was abused in her marriage and was controlled for most of her life. The fact that we were constantly reminded that she wanted to be independent in life had me banging my head against the wall.
Desipte that one frustration, this is a definate re-read for me!
I loved that the author had me totally immersed; I could see everything happening as she told the story. I appreciate that the h&h did not fall instantly in love, or jump into bed together right away. We got to see their relationship grow and watch them figure out what they meant to each other. There was also a twist at the end that was a pleasant surprise but I would have enjoyed an epilogue to learn what became of the secondary characters.
As much as I loved this book, there was one thing that got to me. I get it that Claire was abused in her marriage and was controlled for most of her life. The fact that we were constantly reminded that she wanted to be independent in life had me banging my head against the wall.
Desipte that one frustration, this is a definate re-read for me!
February 17, 2014
I loved this book from start to finish, I couldn't put it down.
Lady Claire Addison is a widow and she has decided she want's to get away from her over protective family for a while and enjoy some freedom, but unknown to her Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe a handsome owner of a gambling hell and fellow traveler has been asked by her brother (who is his friend) to watch out for her and make sure she stays out of trouble.
Claire was a very determined young lady, as trouble seemed to follow her around and Nathan (bless him) stood by her all the way, even when he knows she's not being very honest with him.
Claire want's her grand adventure and she got it.
Nathan decided he'd taken on more than he'd bargained for, but he'd given his word.
His plan to uncover the truth of his fathers death was his reason for his trip, he wanted a new purpose in life, he had plenty of money now, I don't think he had knew what he wanted just a sense of closure and a new beginning
I did like him, he was very honourable and respectful especially when he realized he had strong feelings for Claire. The chemistry between Nathan and Claire was hot, they were a great couple.
The ending was thrilling and very satisfying. This was a very romantic, funny, intriguing and thrilling book, it's all there.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Claire Addison is a widow and she has decided she want's to get away from her over protective family for a while and enjoy some freedom, but unknown to her Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe a handsome owner of a gambling hell and fellow traveler has been asked by her brother (who is his friend) to watch out for her and make sure she stays out of trouble.
Claire was a very determined young lady, as trouble seemed to follow her around and Nathan (bless him) stood by her all the way, even when he knows she's not being very honest with him.
Claire want's her grand adventure and she got it.
Nathan decided he'd taken on more than he'd bargained for, but he'd given his word.
His plan to uncover the truth of his fathers death was his reason for his trip, he wanted a new purpose in life, he had plenty of money now, I don't think he had knew what he wanted just a sense of closure and a new beginning
I did like him, he was very honourable and respectful especially when he realized he had strong feelings for Claire. The chemistry between Nathan and Claire was hot, they were a great couple.
The ending was thrilling and very satisfying. This was a very romantic, funny, intriguing and thrilling book, it's all there.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2014
I really liked this story. Claire and Nathan are a great couple, it was a lot of fun to read about them falling in love. Claire, a widow, ditches her older respectable former nanny as a chaperone on her adventure to Paris. Unfortunately, she also loses her maid at the docks. She decides to get on the ship to Paris anyway. On the ship she runs into Nathan. Nathan is a scoundrel, but he is a friend of her brother's, she recognizes him but he doesn't recognize her at first. Claire's brother asked Nathan to keep a watch on Claire because they were on the same ship to Paris.
This starts an adventure from England to Venice. Claire wants adventure and doesn't want any man to tell her what to do ever again. She has a lot of bad memories from her marriage to overcome. Nathan gets a cryptic letter about his father's death years ago, insinuating that his death may have been murder.
The adventure these two end up on is so much fun to read. Juicy and steamy love scenes. I like reading a story about two people who are weary of love and marriage, but are ready to open up their hearts for the right person.
I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This starts an adventure from England to Venice. Claire wants adventure and doesn't want any man to tell her what to do ever again. She has a lot of bad memories from her marriage to overcome. Nathan gets a cryptic letter about his father's death years ago, insinuating that his death may have been murder.
The adventure these two end up on is so much fun to read. Juicy and steamy love scenes. I like reading a story about two people who are weary of love and marriage, but are ready to open up their hearts for the right person.
I received an ARC of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2014
Lady Claire Hartford, Viscountess Chesterman, had been in a terribly abusive marriage but is now a widow. She's ready for adventure. She's ready to be free and out from under the thumb of all men, even her brother. She has a friend in Italy she wants to visit. Before she can get on the ship, she runs into a friend of her brother. Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe, has been asked by Claire's brother, Sebastian, to keep an eye on her as they are traveling on the same ship. That old saying "what can go wrong, will go wrong" is how Claire's adventure is going, which is why Nathan reluctantly decides to be her protector. For two people who never want a serious relationship, let alone marriage, fate might have other plans.
This author's writing style grabs you, keeps you entranced, from beginning to end. The relationship between Claire and Nathan developed at a realistic pace. I loved the mystery of Nathan's secret meetings. The unveiling of this mystery is definitely unexpected! Fantastic historical with a funny, sexy romance and lots of intrigue.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This author's writing style grabs you, keeps you entranced, from beginning to end. The relationship between Claire and Nathan developed at a realistic pace. I loved the mystery of Nathan's secret meetings. The unveiling of this mystery is definitely unexpected! Fantastic historical with a funny, sexy romance and lots of intrigue.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2016
In Loving the Earl by Sharon Cullen, widowed viscountess Claire Hartford wants to have an adventure. After living a horrible life with her husband and unable to tell anyone about it, not even her brothers has made her strong. But the biggest test will be to go to France and then to Venice to find a lover, without her old nanny and not on the ship that her brother has booked her on so they cannot stop her.
Only as Claire is about to board the ship, her maid gets scared and runs away leaving her without a companion. She either goes through with her plan or returns home to continue being controlled. Claire knows that this may be the only chance she will have to have her adventure and control her own life and decides to board on her own. But as she is about to board, in her distraction she ends up bumping into a gentleman and makes him drop the documents he held in his hand, which then falls into the mud. Read More...
Only as Claire is about to board the ship, her maid gets scared and runs away leaving her without a companion. She either goes through with her plan or returns home to continue being controlled. Claire knows that this may be the only chance she will have to have her adventure and control her own life and decides to board on her own. But as she is about to board, in her distraction she ends up bumping into a gentleman and makes him drop the documents he held in his hand, which then falls into the mud. Read More...
February 23, 2014
Ahhh historical romances. Gotta love them :)
Loving the Earl was a tale of one society lady's adventures and misadventures from her home in England through France, Switzerland and finally arriving in Italy... her ultimate destination from the start. Right from the beginning, Claire, our proper society widow is trying to break free of the bonds that hold her to her past and all the rules set in place for a lady of her station. Running smack into her first problem on the docks of Dover, Claire meets Nathan, an earl with a bad reputation for gambling, drinking and women, and also a good friend of Claire's brother. Nathan was sent on this journey to keep an eye on Claire, but also to follow a mysterious missive that was sent to him regarding his father's death sixteen years earlier.
From boats to brothels, bandits to brothers, Loving the Earl is sure to keep you hooked and rooting for the misadventures of Claire and Nathan and praying that they survive the journey through Europe and love!
Loving the Earl was a tale of one society lady's adventures and misadventures from her home in England through France, Switzerland and finally arriving in Italy... her ultimate destination from the start. Right from the beginning, Claire, our proper society widow is trying to break free of the bonds that hold her to her past and all the rules set in place for a lady of her station. Running smack into her first problem on the docks of Dover, Claire meets Nathan, an earl with a bad reputation for gambling, drinking and women, and also a good friend of Claire's brother. Nathan was sent on this journey to keep an eye on Claire, but also to follow a mysterious missive that was sent to him regarding his father's death sixteen years earlier.
From boats to brothels, bandits to brothers, Loving the Earl is sure to keep you hooked and rooting for the misadventures of Claire and Nathan and praying that they survive the journey through Europe and love!
May 5, 2014
Follows the Genre Well
Nathan Ferguson, Earl of Blythe, must get to Paris. Lord Blythe believed his father died 16 years earlier in a snowstorm in the Swiss Alps. A mysterious letter was sent to him indicating that perhaps this was not the case. His best friend's sister, Lady Claire Addison, the widowed Viscountess Chesterman, was also going to Paris. His best friend asked him to watch out for his sister. The Viscountess is looking for adventure after a nightmare marriage. When these two meet on the ship to Calais, adventure is what they get!
The plot was intriguing. The characters were likeable. The adventure was a little uneven, though. There were too many scenes of mind think when action would have gotten the point across more effectively. The sex scenes were mostly mechanical descriptions, devoid of the passionate emotions that make truly great love stories. The book was good, but would not be a re-read for me. I would recommend it for all the die-hard historical fans, though.
Nathan Ferguson, Earl of Blythe, must get to Paris. Lord Blythe believed his father died 16 years earlier in a snowstorm in the Swiss Alps. A mysterious letter was sent to him indicating that perhaps this was not the case. His best friend's sister, Lady Claire Addison, the widowed Viscountess Chesterman, was also going to Paris. His best friend asked him to watch out for his sister. The Viscountess is looking for adventure after a nightmare marriage. When these two meet on the ship to Calais, adventure is what they get!
The plot was intriguing. The characters were likeable. The adventure was a little uneven, though. There were too many scenes of mind think when action would have gotten the point across more effectively. The sex scenes were mostly mechanical descriptions, devoid of the passionate emotions that make truly great love stories. The book was good, but would not be a re-read for me. I would recommend it for all the die-hard historical fans, though.
June 30, 2014
This is the first book I have the privilege of reading from this author. It was an exquisitely surprise. Lady Claire Hartford, Viscountess Chesterman want to be free. To have her freedom from men controlling her life. Free to make her own decisions. No matter how bad they might be. Lady Claire embarked off for a carefree vacation to Paris and then a stop in Italy. From day one, she has bad situations to the next. It was amusing how she would get herself in these perilous positions.
Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe was asked by his only friend, Sebastian to keep an eye on his sister while she made the same journey. From the start, Nathan had his hands full. First of all, he is trying to solve his father murder, observe a close eye on Lady Claire and fighting the growing attraction and affection with Lady Claire while jumping from one hot hazard to other. I enjoyed every page. I did not want to stop. I have to read Sharon Cullen's other books. Thank you for the chance to read this marvelous book. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
Nathan Ferguson, Lord Blythe was asked by his only friend, Sebastian to keep an eye on his sister while she made the same journey. From the start, Nathan had his hands full. First of all, he is trying to solve his father murder, observe a close eye on Lady Claire and fighting the growing attraction and affection with Lady Claire while jumping from one hot hazard to other. I enjoyed every page. I did not want to stop. I have to read Sharon Cullen's other books. Thank you for the chance to read this marvelous book. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
February 7, 2014
I enjoy reading historical romance, but it always makes me think about how much it would have sucked to be a woman back then.
Claire is a young widow, glad that her abusive husband is dead. She decides to go off on an adventure with only her maid to accompany her. Her overprotective brother thinks she's going with her old (strict) nanny, but asks his friend Nathan to watch out for her. When Claire's maid runs off right before she boards her ship, the adventure begins.
Claire wants nothing but independence, thinking for herself, free from a man constantly telling her what to do. Nathan doesn't know quite what to make of Claire, but he's very intrigued. So much so that he keeps accompanying her beyond his original destination. Claire and Nathan had wonderful, witty banter with each other and lots of sexual tension.
There's a subplot involving Nathan's father, that I didn't really care much about, I was much more interested in Claire and Nathan's story.
Claire is a young widow, glad that her abusive husband is dead. She decides to go off on an adventure with only her maid to accompany her. Her overprotective brother thinks she's going with her old (strict) nanny, but asks his friend Nathan to watch out for her. When Claire's maid runs off right before she boards her ship, the adventure begins.
Claire wants nothing but independence, thinking for herself, free from a man constantly telling her what to do. Nathan doesn't know quite what to make of Claire, but he's very intrigued. So much so that he keeps accompanying her beyond his original destination. Claire and Nathan had wonderful, witty banter with each other and lots of sexual tension.
There's a subplot involving Nathan's father, that I didn't really care much about, I was much more interested in Claire and Nathan's story.
August 12, 2016
Loving The Earl by Sharon Cullen
Upon the death of husband, Claire Hartford decides she is going to travel but her maid refuses to go and runs back home. Claire is wanting to have an adventure and decides to go one even though in that day and time is was scandalous for a female to travel alone. It made me appriciate the times have changed!
I laughed a lot reading this book. All the crazy situations that Claire got into and Nathan Ferguson had agreed to keep an eye on her to her brother. Many times was he sorry! She swore to never marry again and he swore to never marry but you know what becomes when you say never.
Sharon Cullen has several books out and I need to check more of them out. So yes, I would like to read more of them.
I received this ebook for free from NetGalley..
Upon the death of husband, Claire Hartford decides she is going to travel but her maid refuses to go and runs back home. Claire is wanting to have an adventure and decides to go one even though in that day and time is was scandalous for a female to travel alone. It made me appriciate the times have changed!
I laughed a lot reading this book. All the crazy situations that Claire got into and Nathan Ferguson had agreed to keep an eye on her to her brother. Many times was he sorry! She swore to never marry again and he swore to never marry but you know what becomes when you say never.
Sharon Cullen has several books out and I need to check more of them out. So yes, I would like to read more of them.
I received this ebook for free from NetGalley..
January 18, 2015
I really liked this book! It was historical, interesting, fun and sexy. I liked the interactions between Nathan and Claire. I love how it brought up the way women were treated. It was quite the read! I wasn't able to put it down from the moment I started to the finish. It had everything I look for in a good historical romance.
Although well written, at times I was annoyed by how much "inner dialogue" went on, but not enough to ruin the story. It was still great! Plus, the cover is hot! Whoa! Love it. I think this is well worth reading!
Although well written, at times I was annoyed by how much "inner dialogue" went on, but not enough to ruin the story. It was still great! Plus, the cover is hot! Whoa! Love it. I think this is well worth reading!
December 19, 2013
Sizzle & Intrigue
A wonderful historical romance. This book is fast paced and full of sizzle. Well written with a very interesting story plot. The secondary characters come to life and you will find yourself cheering and laughing along the way. Don’t think you have everything figured out because there are some twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages long past when you should have gone to sleep! Sharon Cullen has a new fan! Enjoy! NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept provided an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A wonderful historical romance. This book is fast paced and full of sizzle. Well written with a very interesting story plot. The secondary characters come to life and you will find yourself cheering and laughing along the way. Don’t think you have everything figured out because there are some twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages long past when you should have gone to sleep! Sharon Cullen has a new fan! Enjoy! NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept provided an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2013
This story is about a woman wanting an adventure. Claire had been married to an abusive husband and after he died she decided that she wanted to feel alive and have an adventure. So she boarded a ship and sailed off to Calais - unchaperoned, and that's when the fun began, thieves, lords, highwaymen and blizzards and then true love. The story is worth a read if you like historical romances it has great hero and spirited heroine and a few twist and turn along the way.
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