Η Σταχτοπούτα και ο Κόμης

Gentlemen of Honor #3

by Sophia James, Πέγκυ Μπαρούνη (Translator)

Από τα κουρέλια στα πλούτη, στο πλευρό ενός κόμη!

Εγκαταλειμμένη ως παιδί, η Άνναμπελ Σμιθ έχει μόνο θολές αναμνήσεις –και εφιάλτες– από το παρελθόν της. Τώρα ζει ως θεραπεύτρια στο Ιστ Εντ του Λονδίνου, που μαστίζεται από τη φτώχεια. Μέχρι που δέχεται μια επίσκεψη από τον πλούσιο, επιβλητικό Λίτον Στέινς, κόμη του Θόρντον, που θα της αλλάξει τη ζωή. Ο γοητευτικός αριστοκράτης ψάχνει απεγνωσμένα να βρει γιατρειά για την άρρωστη αδελφή του, και η Μπελ, βοηθώντας τον, βρίσκεται από τη μια στιγμή στην άλλη να ζει σ’ έναν εντυπωσιακό κόσμο πολυτέλειας. Όμως αυτός που ζωντανεύει τον δικό της κόσμο είναι ο ίδιος ο Λίτον!

Genres: Romance, Historical, Historical Romance, Harlequin Historical, Regency, Historical Fiction, Harlequin

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published March 1, 2019

About the author

Georgette Heyer novels formed Sophia James' reading tastes as a teenager, but her writing life only started when she was given a pile of Mills & Boons to read after she had had her wisdom teeth extracted! Filled with strong painkillers, she imagined that she could pen one, too. Many drafts later, Sophia thinks she has the perfect job writing for Harlequin Historical, as well as taking art tours to Europe with her husband, who is a painter.

Reviews

[Esther]

ARC provided by NetGalley and Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.

Annabella is know as a healer and lives in the East end of London's extremely poor neighborhood. Our heroine doesn't really remember where she came from or her past life. It's all a fog to her. Annabella lives with her Aunt, who adopted her. Our heroine has become known as one of the best healers and this is where are hero Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton comes in. His sister is very ill and he has tried every doctor and nothing they have prescribed has helped. Annabella was the last resort.

Annabella's life changes dramatically. She's surrounded by the rich and well known. But the biggest change in her life is the feelings that develop for Lytton. She and Lytton develop a friendship with the underling attraction that tugs and pulls at them at every encounter. But there is now someone that is trying to hurt and or kill Annabella. And things intensify between the two characters as they now endeavor to discover who is behind this and who is Annabella really.

I found this a nice read. It was steady and well paced. Characters all were likable. Really enjoyed Lytoon's sister. The master is pretty obvious.

[Bookread2day]

The Cinderella Countess was my first historical book that I have read. I must say it was very well written by Sophia James, being most enjoyable and entertaining. I honestly don’t know how Mills & Boon deliver such beautiful books. It’s always my last book that I read that becomes my favourite, until I find my next read from Mills & Boon book from their collection. Above all every author that writes for Mills & Boon is extremely gifted with writing characters to love and a plot to keep readers turning the pages non stop there’s that buzz of wanting to know more about all of their authors.

My review on my website www.bokread2day.wordpress.com
In The Cinderella Countess a rag to riches story, that starts in London 1815, with horse carriages that appear like a fairytale. Very rich, good looking, Lytton Staines Earl of Thorton arrived at Annabelle Smith’s house in need of a physician to help with his sister that is sick. Belle had a kind heart she helped others that were extremely poor. With her herbal medicines she attended to the Earl’s sister. I couldn’t help myself from feeling sorry for Belle when hurtful rumours are said of her that she is a witch. Deep down Belle would have liked to live with the Earl in his grand house surrounded by water. I could clearly picture this grand house. But will Annabelle’s thoughts become of anything? Lots of scenes happen, beyond any reader can imagine. The Cinderella Countess by Sophia James comes highly recommend by me!

About author Sophia James, love of writing was formed by reading Georgetta Heyerdahl in the holidays at her grandmothers house.

[Sarah Mac]

This was cute -- not as Regency Noir as the previous book, but I still enjoyed it. Though it's related to the first two 'Gentlemen of Honour' by character group, the story itself is a stand-alone. (NB: It looks like there will be one more book, because there's another dude in the group that's unmarried, & we know how these things go in modern romance -- no friend left behind :P -- but there's no hint as to his One Twu Wuv. Part of me wants it to be that bitch Catherine, because you rarely see 'bad' women redeemed in romance; it always has to be the man. Pfft.)

Anyway. I liked how Annabelle unashamedly read dirty books, & how she was in her 30s but didn't wallow around moaning about being old or unlovable. She had a profession & a fulfilling life despite her early struggles; likewise, Thorn had actual Earldom stuff & business affairs that conflicted with things he'd *rather* be doing (which is rarely touched upon with ton heroes). Also, the threats to this pairing were almost all external dangers or duties, as opposed to self-made bullshit like the Big Mis. There were a few minor misunderstandings due to class difference, but these were cleared up before things could escalate -- a refreshing change in the tired Regency setting.

3.5, rounded up. SJ has a different writing style compared to most of the harlequin ladies. She's less frothy & sweet; even in her lighter scenes there's a somber feel underneath everything, but I like that. :)

[Sissy's Romance Book Review]

The Cinderella Countess by Sophia James is book Three in the Gentlemen of Honor Series. This is the story of Annabelle 'Belle' Smith and Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton. I haven't yet read the previous books, so for me this was a standalone book.
Belle lives with her her Aunt, a lady that took her in and they live in London's extremely poor neighborhood. Bell has become a well known healer in her area. Lytton sister has been very sick and no doctor has been able to help her. When he learns of Belle healing skills he goes to her for help. This thrust her into his world and they build a friendship along with stronger feelings. But Belle's life is put in danger in his world and they go forward to find out why and who Belle may really be. Enjoyed their story.

[Jane Kelsey]

I really enjoyed this book, there was a lot of spark and chemistry between the main characters. The plot was well done, the mystery kept me going up until it was revealed and found it quite empowering for the females.

******
Anabella is a strong-willed woman, quite independent for the time and outspoken. I really loved her character and her bluntness was refreshing. The Earl was classically quiet and broody and we all know he would succumb to the inevitable charm of Anabella, but their journey was captivating and entertaining. 

The plot was easy to follow and the twists and turns were unexpected in most cases, but it kind of bothered me that there was simply no way for me to deduce certain mysteries as the information wasn't artfully hidden for the reader  - this is a general beef of mine. The writing was good and I felt immersed into the time period without feeling out of my depth. 

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and I would recommend it to anyone in the lookout for a new swoony romance. 

[Lisa Camara]

Annabelle Smith knows little about her past, orphaned in France at a young age. Her adopted Aunt brings her to London as a young woman and they live in the poverty ridden east end, where she works as a healer. The Earl of Thornton needs a cure for his ailing sister and visits Belle at her home. Belle's life becomes a roller coaster after meeting the Earl and maybe she will finally uncover her mysterious past.

I really did enjoy this book. I love historical romance and this one did not disappoint. I have read many novels by Sophia James, and her writing and story building are always superior, this new novel is as well. I think I would have liked to learn more about Belle though, like maybe some scenes with her interacting with her poverty stricken clients. It states in the novel that she is loved in Whitechapel, but we never get to see much interaction with her friends outside of Rose.

I appreciate the progression of the story, I didn't feel like it was weighted down, or dragging at all. There was no filler fluff, it was a smooth read. Also, not a long read, I didn't feel like I was stuck in chapters for an exorbitant amount of time. Good read, great characters.

3.5/5 stars.

**I received a copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review**

[Connie]

London - 1815

Annabelle (Belle) Smith is 31-years-old, and an herbalist. She is being called upon by Lytton Staines, the Earl of Thornton, age 35. Lytton is seeking help for his sister, Lucy, who appears to have a wasting sickness. The doctors have not been able to help her, and having heard Belle’s good reputation with the medicines that she makes, he needs her help. She agrees to see his sister the next day.

Belle had lived in France with a woman who took her in from the nuns at a nearby church. She was also an herbalist and Belle calls her aunt. She does not know where she came from but has memories of fancy dressed people in large homes.

When Belle visits Lucy, she does not feel that she is truly ill, but is hiding a secret she does not want to face. So, Belle befriends her in a way that she hopes will get her to open up.

Lytton is quite taken with Belle and enjoys her company. She’s intelligent and is well read. Her perfect speech and knowledge of both English and French show she is of an aristocratic heritage.

When Belle is struck and injured by a carriage obviously owned by someone of wealth, she realizes someone from her mysterious past has recognized her and wants her dead. Lytton cares for her safety and hires someone to guard her. When yet another near-death disaster strikes, Lytton is determined to get to the bottom of these events and find out who is trying to kill Belle and why.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[AnnMarie]

The Cinderella Countess is the third book in the Gentlemen of Honor series by Sophia James. It can easily be read as a standalone book.

Annabelle Smith is a healer living in the poorer parts of London. She has a very good reputation for being excellent at her job and it is that reputation that brings a gentleman caller to her door.

Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton is that gentleman. He is at his wit's end because his sister is ailing and no other medical person has been able to do anything to help her. He hopes and prays that Annabelle will be the one who can.

From the moment she accepts the job Annabelle's life changes in ways she never could have dreamed. The title of the book will make you think that only wonderful things could happen, but that's not the case. I won't give spoilers but suffice to say that the storyline takes a dramatic turn at one point and from then you will realise that this book is definitely much more than just your normal Cinderella type romance.

I enjoyed everything about this story. Right from the start, I was hooked and as the story developed I was more and more engrossed. For me, one of the signs of a great book is when I don't want to put it down. This book was one of those books. I wanted to read it in one sitting, and even when it was finished I wanted to read more. This was such a lovely story with a strong independent heroine and the perfect hero. As different as chalk and cheese theirs was definitely a case of opposites attract. This was such a feel-good story that I was left with a big smile on my face when I finished it. I can't recommend it enough.

[Jane Hunt]

An elegant Earl is not the usual visitor at Miss Anabelle Smith’s rented accommodation It is her reputation as a healer that draws him to her, but when they meet there is instant chemistry. The plot is fast paced and has clever twists, which gradually reveal the puzzle of Anabelle’s former life.

The romance is charming. Lytton is an honourable character and Anabelle, self-reliant and kind, they deserve their happy ending, but are their backgrounds and the conflicts that befall them too diverse and numerous?

This is the third book in the ‘Gentlemen of Honour’series, but the first one I have read, and it is a good standalone read. However, the characters from previous books, who feature briefly here, make me want to read their stories too,

Romantic, full of secrets and simmering passion this Regency romance is the perfect escape for an hour or two.

I received a copy of this book from Mills and Boon via NetGalley

[Camy]

This is the first book by Sophia James that I have read, and I was immediately struck by the beautiful poetry of the prose and the slow, elegant way the storyline unfolded.

31-year old Annabelle is a respected, sucessful herbalist in White Chapel—so much so that she comes to the attention of the Earl of Thornton, who is desperate to find a doctor who can help his ill sister. The sparks between them are instantaneous, but there is a mystery to Anna’s past and much pain in what Thorn has had to live through after the shameful suicide of his father that keeps them at arm’s length from each other.

The characters’ backstories were deliciously intriguing and kept me reading to find out more. However, I found that I didn’t relate very well to the heroine. She was competent, kind, generous, and strong, but for some reason she struck an odd chord with me and I didn’t really empathize with her struggles very well. The mystery of her birth parents is what kept me reading, but I didn’t feel that close to her as a reader.

The romance developed gently and sweetly, and I found I enjoyed watching them fall in love with each other and learn to open up to each other. I especially liked Thorn’s sister and the plot point about her strange illness.

Overall, a good book that was entertaining.

Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Janet]

Annabelle Smith has only vague memories of her past as she was abandoned as a small child in France. She now lives as a healer in London's poverty-stricken Whitechapel, she receives a life-changing visit from the rich and imposing Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton. He needs a cure for his ailing sister Lucy.
A well written charming rags to riches romance that held my interest al the way through & I read it in a sitting. Whilst Belle only had fragments of memories it was obvious to the reader where her past lay. Lytton & Belle were attracted to each other & his protectiveness highlighted his growing feelings. I enjoyed hoe her past was revealed & also her journey to her HEA. Whilst this is the third in the series it could easily be read on its own. There are still a couple of recurring characters who I would love to have their stories too
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Maddy Matos]

I really really loved this story and couldn't stop reading once I started. Thorn was sexy, rich and an Earl but more then that, the author described him as strong, honorable and perfect. The way he took care of his sister and worried about her and his family I found it sexy. Annabelle was beautiful and sweet, had a past that she was unsure of, it was like a dream that she remembered pieces of. This book was well written and it had mystery as well as twist and turns, loved it. You know Anna and Thorn will end up together but the road was sexy, sweet and never bored me. I recommend this book highly.

[Lauren]

I liked this book. The characters were strong, charming, kind, and well developed. Though plot is easy to grasp it still is a fun ride.

[Margaret Fisk]

Originally posted on Tales to Tide You Over

This is a lovely story with interesting characters and a well-seeded mystery. As the title leads you to expect, this is a rags-to-riches Regency romance, but it’s both more and less than that implies.

The story begins with Annabelle slaving over steaming pots…of medicine. She lives in Whitechapel, the poorer end of London, where she and her aunt provide herbal medicine to her neighbors and anyone in need. They are certainly not wealthy, but they are well-appreciated within their community and happy with their lot in life.

In comes Lytton Staines, the Earl of Thornton, drawn to her humble infirmary through rumors of her abilities and a desperate love for his younger sister who wastes away. Between his distaste for his surroundings and the pink silk waistcoat, he appears little more than a fop.

The author mentions Georgette Heyer as one of her inspirations, and that meeting scene holds true to the feel as a mix of disaster, good intentions, and instant attraction make a mess of it. Still, Annabelle holds her ground, showing her to be just as contrary, forceful, and highly unusual as Thorn finds her.

We have access to both their perspectives and so learn things are more complicated than they would appear on the surface. Thorn is not the dandy he appears but seeking solace in the arms of a mistress who enjoys dressing him far more colorfully than he prefers. Annabelle, for all her skill, is nervous of the gentry, a reaction encouraged by her aunt and the strange nightmares plaguing her.

As you can see, from the start we have layers upon layers, some unknown even to the characters seeped in them. The seeding comes into play because I was able to figure out the answers based on subtle clues, subtle enough I needed the confirmation of the big reveal and yet present enough to make me anticipate the answers. There are several mysteries, in fact, starting with the sister’s illness and ending with the last obstacle between Thorn and Annabelle stripping away in time for a satisfying happily ever after ending.

The ending is where the author differs from Heyer. We are present at the marriage bed for an enthusiastic but not detailed culmination of the passion they’d been struggling with from their first meeting.

I enjoyed the blend of strong friendships and the themes around responsibility. This story does not constrain itself to the glitter of society. Instead, it presents a fuller picture of both the lives of the wealthy, from parties to mistresses and gambling, and the darker underside of London through ruffians and schemes. One of the strengths is in how the darkness is not confined to the poor areas and neither is the good. Whitechapel stands by their resident healer, making sure she has the necessities even though they come from meager stores.

Two quick notes: The author uses British punctuation (and I presume British spelling, but it did not stand out to me as I read both). I mention this because US readers unfamiliar with the use of British quotes might find the single quotes around dialogue startling. The second is an interesting development at the end that might be a stretch for some, but gives me hope. You’ll have to see what you think when you reach that point.

Clearly, I enjoyed the read, the characters, and the deeper-than-surface description of London. These aspects provided a rich story for our enjoyment with hints of more to come and intriguing teases about the two books that came before.

P.S. I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[Leah]

I enjoyed this unconventional novel by Sophia James. It is the third book in her The Gentlemen of Honor series. I haven’t read the other books in the series and didn’t find the story confusing or off putting. I liked the characters in the story very much and the intrigue that happens was a nice touch.
Annabelle Smith is an herbalist that works in Whitechapel. While it might not be the most prestigious part of London or even very reputable, Belle and her aunt have made a life there selling medicines and tinctures to those who need it. Belle has a reputation for helping all people and not turning anyone away. She likes what she does. Belle does not know anything about her family or where she came from. She knows that the woman she calls aunt took her in as a child and that occasionally she has nightmares, but has no recollection of her previous life. She has made the best life she knows how and is content until an Earl shows up at her doorstep looking for help for his sister. Belle is immediately drawn to him even though she knows that it isn’t a good idea.
Lytton Staines, the Earl of Thornton, will do anything in his power to help his younger sister, Lucy. She has been in bed for weeks and refuses to eat. He doesn’t know what is wrong and hopes that the herbalist in Whitechapel can help. What he doesn’t hope for is complications in his life, but as soon as Lytton meets Belle, he knows that complications are coming. He didn’t expect to be so drawn toward her and to want to spend more time with her. He knows that it is impossible. They come from different places and reconciling that would be troublesome.
Watching Lytton and Belle fight their feelings as they work to help Lucy get better is amusing. As readers, we all see what is going on and that they are falling for each other, but they persist in being stubborn characters and refuse to acknowledge it. When Belle’s life is in danger, Lytton jumps in to help out bringing their lives even closer.
I really enjoyed reading about a woman who is making it on her own in a notorious part of the city. Watching Belle interact with those in her community and her generous nature makes her a very sympathetic character. She is also strong willed and stands up for what she believes in. I found the end of the story very satisfying because it answers a lot of questions readers have throughout the book. Ms. James did a great job of honoring the Cinderella motif without becoming trite.

[Emma]

“She was an enigma, sometimes this and sometimes that and then something else entirely…”

Healer Annabelle Smith works in Whitechapel, and under normal circumstances would never come into contact with Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton, however, Lytton needs her to attend to his sister, and Annabelle’s life will be changed forever as a result.
One of the things I always love about Sophia James and her books is that her characters are always somewhat different from the norms of Regency society, and Annabelle is no different. From the outset, she has an air of mystery about her, and her lack of knowledge as to her family history is as much a part of the story as her emerging attraction to Lytton.
As a result of a strong plot, the meeting of Annabelle and Lytton is plausible, and their budding relationship is believable, although, the reader is inclined to sympathise with both of them as they believe that society would not accept them as a couple. Indeed, the depiction of the rich/poor divide between their world is well written, and the description of the streets of Whitechapel where Annabelle resides paint a vivid picture of life in London for the poorer classes of society. Despite these differences, Annabelle and Lytton are well suited, and the natural progression of their relationship is enjoyable to the point that you want them to find happiness against the odds.
As the plot progresses, there is a genuine sense of mystery and tension as Annabelle’s past is slowly unraveled, and this works well with the ongoing romance elements of the plot,.
As this is the third book in the ‘Gentlemen of Honour’ series, it is an added bonus to regular readers of the author that Shay and Celeste and Aurelian and Violet make appearances in this book, but, the story is a stand-alone in its own right, and there is no need to have read the previous instalments of the series to follow this one.
An enjoyable book with a good, fast-paced plot and likeable characters, this is another excellent story from Sophia James.
Thanks to M&B for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emma]

This looked good on paper and it was absolutely dreadful in execution. The previous two books had far more interesting heroes and the heroines were not all that insufferably written either but this one, oh this one! The hero is more metrosexual than any Cosmo fantasy metrosexual conjuring and the heroine makes you long for the darkness and complexity of Pollyanna. She supposedly has gone through an upbringing covered in secrecy, has visions of her past family and nothing significant comes out of it! The story shrouding the heroine's parents is so silly that it beggars belief James' draft passed the very low standards and checks of a Harlequin Historical series editor.
And please, when you write a series where readers have read the past couples' stories could you please stop inserting them in the next ones ? Unless you can still maintain them as interesting couples in their marital domesticity -and you clearly, none of you in the so-called 'historicals' can- then refrain. Inserting them in their badly drawn cartoonish versions does not do you or the series any favours. And it sickens the reader. The two previous couples heavily feature in this one but in their most ridiculous form. I have seen 30 second TV ads where the couples were less cartoonish (together with their sugar coated and then dipped in syrup and then honey and caramel domesticity). I can't believe I managed to finish reading this. Very disappointing and a very poor offering by a writer who can write an interesting yarn (if you like high drama as I do).

[Anna Swedenmom]

A definite buy book.

I adore this author. She is witty as well as creative. Each one of her stories has such different elements not all about sex or a plot but so many layers of enjoyment. I liked her characters in this book. I also enjoyed the way it was laid out, the only disappointment for me was not enough life in the subplot of the heroine at first. Later, the disappointment gave way to acceptance then enjoyment. Each of these characters are likable and enjoyable. I like the plot that it was a little different then the norm. I totally enjoyed the writing and just keep looking for more of it. I was sad to end the story in some ways and in others just look forward to seeing what else she will write. So if you want a very enjoyable read, you need to buy this book. I was given the ARC via NetGalley. All opinions written here are my own and totally voluntary. So buy and enjoy this good read. Regards, Anna

[Nancy Hardy]

An older woman with an elusive past.

Anna lives in a small home with her Aunt and the two work together as healers for the poor and down-trodden in their neighbourhood. They had secured a way of keeping a roof over their heads after arriving from France where they had been living, doing similar work.
One day an Earl from London arrives at their door, requesting help for his sister who was dying of a wasting sickness.
Given the urgency of her condition, Anna went with him to see if her herbs and potions could help. Things were not as they first seemed, and the girl slowly got better and left London to recuperate in the country.
Anna and Thorn, the Earl had become close and when accidents started happening to the beautiful Anna, Thorn became very protective.
I recommend this delightful story that has humour, hate, love and secrets that slowly dissolve.

[Romantic Intentions Quarterly]

The third in The Gentlemen of Honor series tells the tale of Annabelle Smith, herbalist and healer, who is a mystery wrapped in an enigma: even she does not know the truth of her own life, or the reason why forces are out to kill her. Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton, comes for the medicine and stays for the woman, becoming embroiled in the mystery surrounding her, and desperate to protect her. The mystery can be spotted from a mile away but that doesn’t really detract from what is overall a highly enjoyable historical romance. – Megan Osmond

3 1/2 stars.

This review appears in Romantic Intentions Quarterly #4.

[Toth Jo-Ann]

I really enjoy Sophia's books. For she deals with issues that many don't want to. Annabelle Smith is a strong character that makes you wonder about. She is a strong character that has morals and a obligation to help others. I really enjoy Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton. He shows you what its like to survive a tragedy and make the best of it. The book is well written for she brings the characters to life. She also gives you a glimpse into what England was like in the old days. It has action and mystery in it. She sets a pace that us steady and gives you a glimpse into the past. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the next one. J

[Georgina]

I was delighted from the first page. Bravo to a well-written introduction. She grabbed my attention.

This story is practical. Life is full of beauty as well as sickness and death. I appreciate stories that approach both.

The sister's story was given to the reader in such an attention grabbing manner. I was enthralled with it, as well as the gambling father.

I liked the darkness of the story. All of my guesses were wrong. The author 'threw me for a loop.'

The steamy part takes place in marriage.

Read this story. It is a true Cinderella story that you will be sure to enjoy!!!🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵

[Lynn Smith]

This is the story of Annabelle 'Belle' Smith and Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton part of Sophia James Gentlemen of Honor series. This is the first one I read in this series so I am looking forward to reading the other 2 in this series.

[Elizabeth]

This was a fair loose interpretation of Cinderella, but not the best. There's still some good parts of the novels where I can believe the attraction between the couple.

[Nomadic Librarian]

Once upon a time (actually 1815), there was a beautiful, independent young woman of unknown origins who lived and worked as an herbalist in the worst part of London. One day, a handsome, rich aristocrat arrived at her door asking for help in curing his sister who has a “wasting disease.” Thus begins a tale that vaguely resembles the Cinderella we know with some pretty major twists. Instead of a wicked stepmother and stepsisters, Annabelle Smith lives with a kindly aunt and is being targeted for death by an unknown assailant. Lord Lytton Staines, the Earl of Thornton. is an unlikely Prince Charming who knows that falling in love and marrying a lowborn woman, especially one who is being less than truthful, is not a possibility in his world. However, he can’t ignore his natural instinct to protect her, so they keep being thrown together. What will it take to clear the path for a happily ever after?

The Cinderella Countess (the third book in the Gentlemen of Honor series) is not just another entry into the crowded Regency romance genre, but a compelling mystery and a love story with modern sensibilities. There are some instances that are less than historically accurate such as the Earl’s mother opening the front door and shouting about prostitutes and later the Earl himself welcoming Annabelle to his door because there is no servant present, the family estate being lost in a card game when these were generally entailed, and the Earl owning businesses which was very much frowned upon by the haute ton. However, these don’t detract from a story that features strong, well-defined characters, a series of attempted murders, and the mystery of where Annabelle really came from. This is a very worthy addition to the historical romance field.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from Harlequin – Romance through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Books Her]

Available now: The Cinderella Countess by Sophia James
****3.5/5 stars: Liked it. As the name implies, The Cinderella Countess is great for any romantic.



Recommended readers:

If you like a Cinderella love story
If you are a historical romance lover or Jane Feather fan
Here's my Rankings:

3.5/5 for characters
3.5/5 for plot
3.5/5 overall
Note: Steamy factor (3 of 5 ... little steaminess)
REVIEW FROM BOOKS FOR HER:
Annebelle Smith has been a healer in a rough area of London for as long as she knows. With her unknown birth, she does her best to heal London's poor with the resources she has.  Her reputation grows until she is brought to heal the sister of the rich Earl of Thornton, where they both struggle with attraction and their stations in life.

As the name implies, The Cinderella Countess is the love story of different stations in life. At under $5, it's a great read for any historical romance lover.

Available now: The Cinderella Countess by Sophia James

[Brenda]

From rags to riches

By the earl’s side!

Abandoned as a small child, Annabelle Smith has only vague memories of her past. Now living as a healer in London’s poverty-stricken East End, she receives a life-changing visit from the rich and imposing Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton. He needs a cure for his ailing sister and helping him thrusts Belle into his dazzling life of luxury. But it’s Lytton who makes her world come alive!

This is another first read by a previously new to me author. I had heard of Sophia James before but had never read anything by her. This surprisingly short and engaging read was to be my introduction to a maybe future go to author.

This is the tale of a young woman who knows nothing of her past. When Lytton Staines, Earl of Thornton.comes to her door in need of help for his ailing sister she agrees to try but this catapults her on a roller coaster ride into previously unknown intriguing situations and danger.
I gave this book 4 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization. This story has a surprise around every corner.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this quick read which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Harlequin Historical]

Miniseries: Gentlemen of Honor

[Harlequin Books]

Miniseries: Gentlemen of Honor