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Heart & Soul (Lords in Love) #2
Defying the Earl
Alternate cover edition can be found here
Miss Matilda Dodd refuses to be any man’s property. She’s a month shy of her majority, and cannot wait to live life on her own terms. Rather than meet her unwanted new guardian as instructed, she attends a ball and comes kiss-to-kiss with an adorably befuddled handsome lord instead. But the grumpy, sexy stranger turns out to be the new guardian, hell-bent on marrying her to someone else!
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is an emotionless, rigid automaton who lives for predictability and order. There is no room in his exacting schedule for a ridiculous matchmaking festival, and there is no room in his peaceful life for an unexpected ward. The only solution is to marry the chit to the first fool willing take the hoyden off the earl’s hands. That is, if Titus can keep his hands off his maddening, kissable ward…
Miss Matilda Dodd refuses to be any man’s property. She’s a month shy of her majority, and cannot wait to live life on her own terms. Rather than meet her unwanted new guardian as instructed, she attends a ball and comes kiss-to-kiss with an adorably befuddled handsome lord instead. But the grumpy, sexy stranger turns out to be the new guardian, hell-bent on marrying her to someone else!
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is an emotionless, rigid automaton who lives for predictability and order. There is no room in his exacting schedule for a ridiculous matchmaking festival, and there is no room in his peaceful life for an unexpected ward. The only solution is to marry the chit to the first fool willing take the hoyden off the earl’s hands. That is, if Titus can keep his hands off his maddening, kissable ward…
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2023
758 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Erica Ridley
130 books2,195 followersGet freebies and 99¢ deals at: https://ridley.vip
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
May 29, 2023
If there is such a thing as a Regency beach read, this would be it—charming, romantic, funny, and unputdownable. While it could be considered a Beauty and the Beast trope, Mathilda and Titus’s interactions skewed more toward grumpy/sunshine. Which. I. Loved. The pacing was lively while not skipping on romantic sentiment.
Quibble
-Would have liked more detailed prospective suitor and ball scenes.
Quibble
-Would have liked more detailed prospective suitor and ball scenes.
April 20, 2023
A sweet Guardian Ward romance. Any time I hear this trope, my ears instantly perk up. This was a lovely little take on it.
It was kind of interesting that it was only for a short term and there isn't really an age gap between them either. It took a bit of the forbidden-ness out of the situation. Which for me anyway, is what I love about a trope like this. It does have the forced proximity and he was delightfully grumpy yet protective, so that was fun too.
I just continue to stand by that this series feels a bit rushed.
3.5 stars
1.5 on the spice scale
It was kind of interesting that it was only for a short term and there isn't really an age gap between them either. It took a bit of the forbidden-ness out of the situation. Which for me anyway, is what I love about a trope like this. It does have the forced proximity and he was delightfully grumpy yet protective, so that was fun too.
I just continue to stand by that this series feels a bit rushed.
3.5 stars
1.5 on the spice scale
April 9, 2023
How did Matilda and Titus get to the romantic love without the help of Aunt Stapelron? I love the book. It’s engaging for me as reader. The story is a peaceful read that moves rather fast for the reader if the engrossed into the book. The subject matter was appropriate for the time frame. The characters are interesting and charming. The dialogue was clear and understanding. The romance has just the right amount of steam. I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is book 4 of the Lords in Love series that can be read as a standalone, but does center around the matrimonial festival in Marrywell.
This has a Beauty and the Beast, and sunshine x grumpy theme, with a touch of Regency Mean Girls, and I loved the story. Matilda Dodd is a month away from her 21st birthday and her independence. That is when she comes into her inheritance and will have financial freedom to live her life as she wants. She is desperate to live life to the fullest, experience things, and make friends, despite being rather shy and lacking confidence. She has spent a year in deep mourning, and near social isolation, for her parents after their deaths from a fever that sickened Matilda as well.
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is a man scarred inside and out and also knows intimately about the loss of family. He suffered the loss of his entire family in a carriage accident as a child, that he blamed himself for. He took the opposite route from Matilda and determined that he would push everyone away. While he does his duty as an Earl and a member of the House of Lords, he is known to be cold, unsocial, and unapproachable. Because of his past, he feels he does not deserve love or family, and this breaks my heart because when he meets Matilda, you feel how much he craves their connection, even though he also harshly and desperately pushes her away and seems to reject her.
Because his internal scars and guilt makes him think he does not deserve her and her love.
But Titus and Matilda complement each other - he cares for her, supports her, and gives her confidence when others try to break her down and stomp on her. She brings light and sunshine to his darkness. Despite the walls he puts up to keep others out, he cannot help but show her that he cares for her in everything he observes about her, including her love of candied citrus. But he mistakenly thinks that he does not deserve her and to love her and thinks it is best for her to be away from him... and because of this he almost loses his chance at love and family again.
His scarred forbidding exterior hides a man with deep emotional scars, but is desperately in need of being loved - I wanted to reach through the pages and give him a big long hug. He is obviously loved by others who know him - he treats his servants wonderfully, his godmother obviously cares for him - but he had shut himself away from them, and needed Matilda to open him up.
This book needed for Titus to have a big goofy dog to give him some unconditional love also.
4.5 stars out of 5
This is book 4 of the Lords in Love series that can be read as a standalone, but does center around the matrimonial festival in Marrywell.
This has a Beauty and the Beast, and sunshine x grumpy theme, with a touch of Regency Mean Girls, and I loved the story. Matilda Dodd is a month away from her 21st birthday and her independence. That is when she comes into her inheritance and will have financial freedom to live her life as she wants. She is desperate to live life to the fullest, experience things, and make friends, despite being rather shy and lacking confidence. She has spent a year in deep mourning, and near social isolation, for her parents after their deaths from a fever that sickened Matilda as well.
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is a man scarred inside and out and also knows intimately about the loss of family. He suffered the loss of his entire family in a carriage accident as a child, that he blamed himself for. He took the opposite route from Matilda and determined that he would push everyone away. While he does his duty as an Earl and a member of the House of Lords, he is known to be cold, unsocial, and unapproachable. Because of his past, he feels he does not deserve love or family, and this breaks my heart because when he meets Matilda, you feel how much he craves their connection, even though he also harshly and desperately pushes her away and seems to reject her.
Because his internal scars and guilt makes him think he does not deserve her and her love.
But Titus and Matilda complement each other - he cares for her, supports her, and gives her confidence when others try to break her down and stomp on her. She brings light and sunshine to his darkness. Despite the walls he puts up to keep others out, he cannot help but show her that he cares for her in everything he observes about her, including her love of candied citrus. But he mistakenly thinks that he does not deserve her and to love her and thinks it is best for her to be away from him... and because of this he almost loses his chance at love and family again.
His scarred forbidding exterior hides a man with deep emotional scars, but is desperately in need of being loved - I wanted to reach through the pages and give him a big long hug. He is obviously loved by others who know him - he treats his servants wonderfully, his godmother obviously cares for him - but he had shut himself away from them, and needed Matilda to open him up.
This book needed for Titus to have a big goofy dog to give him some unconditional love also.
4.5 stars out of 5
April 25, 2023
I have only read 17 of Erica Ridley's books. I found her when I read The Wicked Duke's Club that she wrote with Darcy Burke back in 2016. I didn't really pick her up again until 2019. Glad to see a series with Darcy Burke again. I have really been enjoying this series.
Matilda and Titus were so cute. I really them and enjoyed reading their story. Great personalities and great together. Can't wait for the next one.
Matilda and Titus were so cute. I really them and enjoyed reading their story. Great personalities and great together. Can't wait for the next one.
April 20, 2023
I’d like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“Defying the Earl” by Erika Ridley is the fourth book in the “Lords in Love”-series. The novel tells the story of Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, and Miss Matilda Dodd. Titus loves rules and the order they bring. With a strong preference for self-isolation he spends most of his days in his office working. When he has to attend the May Day Matchmaking Festival in order to pick up his newly assigned ward, Titus finds himself kissing a mysterious woman who tastes like candied lemon peels behind potted fawns. To his own surprise, the young woman turns out to be Matilda Dodd, his ward. Matilda has no interest in other people meddling with her future. She wants to be one who decides who or when she marries. Not her aunt, not the Earl of Gilbourne. Yet, Titus can’t seem to wait to rid himself of her and marry her off. Shy Matilda has to stand her ground and not fall back in the arms of the handsome stranger who stole a kiss from her.
Though, the story is rather short and more a novella than a full-length novel, the author manages to create two intriguing and full fleshed main characters with quirks and all. I thoroughly enjoyed the combination of a shy FMC and a social reclusive MMC. It created a nice dynamic in which the couple shares similarities, but also differences which created tension and banter. Matilda and Titus challenge each other as much as they compliment each other.
Although the characters are well crafted and fun, the shortness of the novel surely created the issue of a rather rushed storytelling style. Everything happens quickly without much builtup. The characters get thrown together in a silly situation and then stuff continuously starts happening before time (or space) runs out. Unlike the installation before, Matilda and Titus were strangers when they met and had no prior connections which made the fast paced romance a bit too unbelievable. Their life together after the festival is also quite rushed through. Three weeks get discussed in a few chapters, racing through Matilda’s Cinderella-transformation, expanding feelings towards Titus and exploring London. I wish I had more time to sit with the characters and not get info dumped in order for the next scene to make sense. I also missed a bit of romance. Sure, there was tension and simmering feelings between the two, but two shared kisses and a fade-to-black scene didn’t make the cut for me. They had great chemistry and I loved the way they were able to connect with each other, but everything was too rushed that I couldn’t truly enjoy these amazing characters and their backstories.
The writing style is strongly leaning towards the classic romcom style found in many contemporary and historical romances alike. Many readers enjoy this more comedic style of writing, other’s prefer a more whimsical and older sounding style. To me, the writing style was solid and matched the silly and light-hearted plot. In a way it also helped with the rushed pacing as did not struggle with overcomplicated vocabulary and sentence structure.
Overall, a good continuation of the series, matching the prior books with its light-hearted and fun story. The story was a tad too silly for my taste but still a great novel to pick up on a spring weekend and get lost in the botanic gardens of Marywell for another adventure.
“Defying the Earl” by Erika Ridley is the fourth book in the “Lords in Love”-series. The novel tells the story of Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, and Miss Matilda Dodd. Titus loves rules and the order they bring. With a strong preference for self-isolation he spends most of his days in his office working. When he has to attend the May Day Matchmaking Festival in order to pick up his newly assigned ward, Titus finds himself kissing a mysterious woman who tastes like candied lemon peels behind potted fawns. To his own surprise, the young woman turns out to be Matilda Dodd, his ward. Matilda has no interest in other people meddling with her future. She wants to be one who decides who or when she marries. Not her aunt, not the Earl of Gilbourne. Yet, Titus can’t seem to wait to rid himself of her and marry her off. Shy Matilda has to stand her ground and not fall back in the arms of the handsome stranger who stole a kiss from her.
Though, the story is rather short and more a novella than a full-length novel, the author manages to create two intriguing and full fleshed main characters with quirks and all. I thoroughly enjoyed the combination of a shy FMC and a social reclusive MMC. It created a nice dynamic in which the couple shares similarities, but also differences which created tension and banter. Matilda and Titus challenge each other as much as they compliment each other.
Although the characters are well crafted and fun, the shortness of the novel surely created the issue of a rather rushed storytelling style. Everything happens quickly without much builtup. The characters get thrown together in a silly situation and then stuff continuously starts happening before time (or space) runs out. Unlike the installation before, Matilda and Titus were strangers when they met and had no prior connections which made the fast paced romance a bit too unbelievable. Their life together after the festival is also quite rushed through. Three weeks get discussed in a few chapters, racing through Matilda’s Cinderella-transformation, expanding feelings towards Titus and exploring London. I wish I had more time to sit with the characters and not get info dumped in order for the next scene to make sense. I also missed a bit of romance. Sure, there was tension and simmering feelings between the two, but two shared kisses and a fade-to-black scene didn’t make the cut for me. They had great chemistry and I loved the way they were able to connect with each other, but everything was too rushed that I couldn’t truly enjoy these amazing characters and their backstories.
The writing style is strongly leaning towards the classic romcom style found in many contemporary and historical romances alike. Many readers enjoy this more comedic style of writing, other’s prefer a more whimsical and older sounding style. To me, the writing style was solid and matched the silly and light-hearted plot. In a way it also helped with the rushed pacing as did not struggle with overcomplicated vocabulary and sentence structure.
Overall, a good continuation of the series, matching the prior books with its light-hearted and fun story. The story was a tad too silly for my taste but still a great novel to pick up on a spring weekend and get lost in the botanic gardens of Marywell for another adventure.
April 16, 2023
Titus Noble is a very private person, which is why he hates having to visit Merrywell to fetch his new ward.
Matilda Dodd has lost her parents a year ago. Having only three weeks until her 21st birthday she doesn't like the idea of being ward to an Earl until she reaches her majority, but is determined to make the best out of the situation.
Both like and dislike each other from the moment they meet; Titus the grump, Matilda the sunshine. She tries to coax a smile out of him. He just wants her out of his life as fast as possible, which means he should do his level best to marry her off as soon as possible.
Matilda Dodd has lost her parents a year ago. Having only three weeks until her 21st birthday she doesn't like the idea of being ward to an Earl until she reaches her majority, but is determined to make the best out of the situation.
Both like and dislike each other from the moment they meet; Titus the grump, Matilda the sunshine. She tries to coax a smile out of him. He just wants her out of his life as fast as possible, which means he should do his level best to marry her off as soon as possible.
April 30, 2023
An entertaining and well written historical romance - great chemistry between the H/h. I really enjoyed it.
April 20, 2023
This was a really fantastic read. A witty historical romance with great characters and a bit of a twist on the path to their HEA.
Matilda was such a fun character and I loved her interactions with the grumpy Titus. She was definitely not what he was expecting.
If you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted Sunday afternoon read then this is definitely for you.
I received an arc of this book
Matilda was such a fun character and I loved her interactions with the grumpy Titus. She was definitely not what he was expecting.
If you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted Sunday afternoon read then this is definitely for you.
I received an arc of this book
April 24, 2023
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, drives eight hours from London to Merrywell, during the Matchmaking Festival, to meet his godmother at the welcome ball. Her orphaned, twenty almost twenty-one year old great niece, Miss Matilda Dodd, needs guidance for a respectable path. Lady Stapleton is ready to turn her over to Titus, the very rigid and self contained earl who never smiles and laughs. Social gatherings are avoided. Of all places to meet his godmother is at the assembly rooms. Titus adores rules, but breaks his first rule within fifteen minutes behind a row of potted ferns. Matilda has her first adventure. I laughed and cried my way through this book and could start over and read it again. Ridley struck gold with this one!
Heated kisses and pleasure.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Heated kisses and pleasure.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
April 25, 2023
OH MY GOSH!!! Have I mentioned I love grumpy sunshine?? Because I totally do!! And this is the grumpiest sunshine-iest every. Matilda is so lovely, so warm and open and wanting to explore the world around her and make friends. And Titus is as closed off as anyone could possibly be, scarred on the inside and out and determined to suffer through the next three weeks with his ward and be done with her. Watching them clash was so much fun and I may or may not have cried a bit at the end (spoiler alert, I totally did). Can't wait to read the next in series!!
May 4, 2023
"Defying the Earl" was over the top and obvious, yet failed to have any real plot conflict. There is very little character development, especially for Matilda, and it's filled with casual inaccuracies that pull it out of the historical setting. Would not recommend.
Note: Part of a series, but can be read as a standalone.
eARC provided via NetGalley for review.
Note: Part of a series, but can be read as a standalone.
eARC provided via NetGalley for review.
April 10, 2023
Defying the Earl by Erica Ridley is the fourth book in the series called Lords in Love. Darcy Burke and Erica Ridley are writing the series all based in Marrywell, England. The town grows tremendously each year for the annual festival, May Day Matchmaking Festival. In this particular novel, only part of the book takes place in Marrywell and the rest takes place in and around London.
Titus Noble lives a very regimented life. He does the same things everyday in the same pattern. He doesn’t allow people into his world or allow anyone to get close to him. That is when a surprise is dropped on him by Aunt Stapelron. He suddenly has a ward for the next month or so. He is under the impression that she is quite out of control and needs a lot of help.
Matilda Dodd is a month shy of having reached her majority. She has decided that she is going to live her life! She is persistently cheerful despite several direct cuts by some others. Titus comes to her aid a couple of times. Matilda is determined to be part of Titus’s world at least for a short time before she goes off on her own.
What a wonderful story that brought Matilda and Titus together thanks to Aunt Stapelron! I loved how the characters found their way to being open to life and laughter. Defying the Earl by Erica Ridley was a great read.
Titus Noble lives a very regimented life. He does the same things everyday in the same pattern. He doesn’t allow people into his world or allow anyone to get close to him. That is when a surprise is dropped on him by Aunt Stapelron. He suddenly has a ward for the next month or so. He is under the impression that she is quite out of control and needs a lot of help.
Matilda Dodd is a month shy of having reached her majority. She has decided that she is going to live her life! She is persistently cheerful despite several direct cuts by some others. Titus comes to her aid a couple of times. Matilda is determined to be part of Titus’s world at least for a short time before she goes off on her own.
What a wonderful story that brought Matilda and Titus together thanks to Aunt Stapelron! I loved how the characters found their way to being open to life and laughter. Defying the Earl by Erica Ridley was a great read.
April 24, 2023
I really enjoyed this romance. The characters were wonderful and really felt well-rounded and alive (this is where Erica Ridley's writing always really shines).
They were such a perfectly matched pair and it was wonderful to see Matilda pull Titus out of his shell while still respecting his boundaries and being sensitive to his past trauma. Meanwhile Titus was so caring and considerate, and so understanding of her own trauma.
I LOVED the way Erica Ridley dealt with the trauma, and the way she showed that not all scars are visible on the outside. It was deft and gentle and so clearly shown.
It was a really interesting take on the guardian/ward trope, as he is 26 and she is just three weeks shy of 21 and her majority. It left a hint of the foriddenness but took away a lot of the age gap uncomfortableness that can come with this trope.
The only thing I disliked about this book - and it was minor - is that it felt rushed at times and the pacing wasn't always 100% smooth. I think if she had allowed herself to make it a bit longer it would have felt smoother.Still, I can understand not wanting to make a story that takes place over three weeks too long.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Webmotion, and Erica Ridley for providing an early copy for review.
They were such a perfectly matched pair and it was wonderful to see Matilda pull Titus out of his shell while still respecting his boundaries and being sensitive to his past trauma. Meanwhile Titus was so caring and considerate, and so understanding of her own trauma.
I LOVED the way Erica Ridley dealt with the trauma, and the way she showed that not all scars are visible on the outside. It was deft and gentle and so clearly shown.
It was a really interesting take on the guardian/ward trope, as he is 26 and she is just three weeks shy of 21 and her majority. It left a hint of the foriddenness but took away a lot of the age gap uncomfortableness that can come with this trope.
The only thing I disliked about this book - and it was minor - is that it felt rushed at times and the pacing wasn't always 100% smooth. I think if she had allowed herself to make it a bit longer it would have felt smoother.Still, I can understand not wanting to make a story that takes place over three weeks too long.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Webmotion, and Erica Ridley for providing an early copy for review.
April 8, 2023
Miss Matilda Dodd refuses to be any man’s property. She’s a month shy of her majority, and cannot wait to live life on her own terms. Rather than meet her unwanted new guardian as instructed, she attends a ball and comes kiss-to-kiss with an adorably befuddled handsome lord instead. But the grumpy, sexy stranger turns out to be the new guardian, intent on marrying her to someone else!
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is an emotionless, rigid automaton who lives for predictability and order. There is no room in his exacting schedule for a ridiculous matchmaking festival, and there is no room in his peaceful life for an unexpected ward.
Grumpy meets sunshine in this delicious read. I loved Titus & Matilda. She's a ray of sunshine & he's a solitary hardworking man who hides a heart of gold. My heart melted when he searched rooms for spiders because Matilda has a phobia. They are perfect for each other & as more of their back stories are revealed the more this is apparent. A very well written fun entertaining read
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is an emotionless, rigid automaton who lives for predictability and order. There is no room in his exacting schedule for a ridiculous matchmaking festival, and there is no room in his peaceful life for an unexpected ward.
Grumpy meets sunshine in this delicious read. I loved Titus & Matilda. She's a ray of sunshine & he's a solitary hardworking man who hides a heart of gold. My heart melted when he searched rooms for spiders because Matilda has a phobia. They are perfect for each other & as more of their back stories are revealed the more this is apparent. A very well written fun entertaining read
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 6, 2023
As an ARC member, this is my honest review. Erica Ridley’s books get better and better.
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is living with guilt as the only remainder of his family who perished in an accident. Matilda Dodd is the survivor of an illness which took her parents. Two losses handled quite differently. Titus closes himself in while Matilda, one month from attaining her majority and inheritance, can’t wait to have control over her life and adventures. Titus has become Matilda’s guardian and thinks solely of finding a mate for Matilda before her majority so he can get back to his somewhat reclusive life. The only problem is that Titus is drawn to his ward in ways he doesn’t want to be.
The characters and storyline are well developed, making it hard for me to put down this book. I absolutely loved this book and would rate it higher than 5 stars if I could. I highly recommend it!
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is living with guilt as the only remainder of his family who perished in an accident. Matilda Dodd is the survivor of an illness which took her parents. Two losses handled quite differently. Titus closes himself in while Matilda, one month from attaining her majority and inheritance, can’t wait to have control over her life and adventures. Titus has become Matilda’s guardian and thinks solely of finding a mate for Matilda before her majority so he can get back to his somewhat reclusive life. The only problem is that Titus is drawn to his ward in ways he doesn’t want to be.
The characters and storyline are well developed, making it hard for me to put down this book. I absolutely loved this book and would rate it higher than 5 stars if I could. I highly recommend it!
April 17, 2023
This is giving me Beauty and the Beast feels. I love the characters of this book. Matilda and Titus are such complete opposites that when they came together, sparks flew! I got so giddy reading that I flew through this book and read it in less than a day. I absolutely adore regency romances and the familiar feeling that this community brings makes you just want to snuggle up with a hot chocolate and that warm fuzzy feeling in your chest. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS SERIES. PERIOD.
Thanks to NetGalley and WebMotion for this ARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. #LordsInLove #DefyingtheEarl #NetGalley #EricaRidley #WebMotion
Thanks to NetGalley and WebMotion for this ARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. #LordsInLove #DefyingtheEarl #NetGalley #EricaRidley #WebMotion
April 3, 2023
Matilda Dodd & Titus Noble
She is a quiet, sweet-chomping young country Miss who finds that she has feelings for her Guardian and he is the grumpy, stern Earl of Gilbourne. He is so rigid in his beliefs that I wanted to throw something at him every now and then, until he came to his senses!
Matilda and Titus are two of the funniest and very lovable characters I have read about in a long time.
There are lots of humorous scenes in this “have to read and finish quickly story” that I really did read way past my bedtime to do just that.
So, this rather bleary eyed reader has now written her voluntary review (after reading an Advance Reader Copy (ARC)) and now needs to post it in the appropriate places.
She is a quiet, sweet-chomping young country Miss who finds that she has feelings for her Guardian and he is the grumpy, stern Earl of Gilbourne. He is so rigid in his beliefs that I wanted to throw something at him every now and then, until he came to his senses!
Matilda and Titus are two of the funniest and very lovable characters I have read about in a long time.
There are lots of humorous scenes in this “have to read and finish quickly story” that I really did read way past my bedtime to do just that.
So, this rather bleary eyed reader has now written her voluntary review (after reading an Advance Reader Copy (ARC)) and now needs to post it in the appropriate places.
did-not-finish
April 26, 2023It may be due to the headspace I'm in, but I'm not enjoying this as much as I should. The conflict is there, but it's taken half of the book for the attraction to shift from purely physical to something a little deeper. I'm in the mood for something more gripping, so I'm DNFing at 70%.
Thanks to the author for providing a review copy.
Thanks to the author for providing a review copy.
April 19, 2023
I thought Matilda and Titus's story was so much fun. I really liked there two and loved them together. The chemistry was awesome and the whole grumpy/sunshine opposing personalities was delightful. All and, a wonderful read that I thoroughly enjoyed. This is my freely posted, frank review.
April 5, 2024
10 stars
This story is just so damn sweet. I loved it.
I love Mattie May Mat and Gilly Gil Gil 🩷🩷🩷
And she made me cry. Always a good sign.
A keeper. Will read again.
This story is just so damn sweet. I loved it.
I love Mattie May Mat and Gilly Gil Gil 🩷🩷🩷
And she made me cry. Always a good sign.
A keeper. Will read again.
January 4, 2025
I quite liked the hero, but the heroine was so horrifically annoying that I had to skim the chapters from her perspective. It's an okay book, but it could have been much better.
April 21, 2025
Who needs a ward when there's love?
I love reading about a loner who is brought out of his or her she'll and this novel did not disappoint.
I love reading about a loner who is brought out of his or her she'll and this novel did not disappoint.
August 19, 2025
Weak 3 stars
Titus was far too uptight in the beginning, frustrating in denying his feelings through the middle, and yet the sudden change of heart monologue at the end was thoroughly unbelievable.
Titus was far too uptight in the beginning, frustrating in denying his feelings through the middle, and yet the sudden change of heart monologue at the end was thoroughly unbelievable.
April 22, 2023
Rounding up from 3.5. Nice, quick, cozy read. Sweet story. What I was looking for.
April 12, 2023
Loved it! A tad less than Taming the Rake but that was a high bar.
Grumpy sunshine, guardian-ward, Beauty and the Beast retelling.
Early on Ridley indicates that it's a Beauty and the Beast retelling which made me even more excited to read it.
Titus is soo upright and uptight and Madeline just wants to experience life and make friends, both relatable to me.
Even with the inclusion of some mean girls trying to tear Madeline down, the book is sweet but not sickeningly. Titus' change from starchy earl to infatuated guardian was gradual but satisfying, a feat for a book around 200 pages.
I enjoyed the 'conflict' and resolution, and the grovel!
Grumpy sunshine, guardian-ward, Beauty and the Beast retelling.
Early on Ridley indicates that it's a Beauty and the Beast retelling which made me even more excited to read it.
Titus is soo upright and uptight and Madeline just wants to experience life and make friends, both relatable to me.
Even with the inclusion of some mean girls trying to tear Madeline down, the book is sweet but not sickeningly. Titus' change from starchy earl to infatuated guardian was gradual but satisfying, a feat for a book around 200 pages.
I enjoyed the 'conflict' and resolution, and the grovel!
May 31, 2023
It started with a kiss behind a palm frond! I loved the interaction between these seemingly different characters. Their underlying phobias and the facades they put on make them inextricably drawn to one another, without them realizing it. Amusing in parts, this is a really lovely romance.
June 3, 2023
Predictable story, ridiculous characters
There are no characters in this book only caricatures. Everyone is over the top. The complete lack of subtlety ruins what in another author’s hands could have been believable and enjoyable.
There are no characters in this book only caricatures. Everyone is over the top. The complete lack of subtlety ruins what in another author’s hands could have been believable and enjoyable.
December 30, 2024
It was cute and fluffy so that fit the bill but was a bit too modern for the period, and didn’t feel it the way I hoped. 🤷🏼♀️
April 23, 2023
Here we are again with the Lords in Love. Defying the Earl by author Erica Ridley is the 4th entry in this wonderful series. We’re back in Marywell at the marriage fair and see some familiar faces, but this time it’s more of a handover than a young girl trying to find a handsome, rich, titled husband.
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is all three of those things. Well, he was handsome until the accident when he was a child but look closely and you can still see it. He is in Marywell to take charge of Miss Matilda Dodd until she reaches her majority in three weeks. Lady Stapleton, the woman who raised Titus after he was orphaned, is Mathilda’s aunt. Mathilda has proven to be quite a handful and Aunt Stapleton can’t manage anymore and has asked Titus to step in for the next three weeks. There is nothing he would like to do less – but – he would do anything to Lady Stapleton.
So here he is, lurking among the plants at the Marywell Ball, impatiently waiting, when through the leaves the spies the most beautiful and beguiling creature he has ever seen. He can’t take his eyes off her; he’s mesmerized, on autopilot. She catches him staring and feels that same pull. They are like two magnets, approaching, approaching, an irresistible force pulling them together. There is some conversation, maybe a little flirting, and – gasp! – a kiss. Which of course should never have happened because this is the Regency, after all.
Titus hears Lady Stapleton’ voice, they pop apart, and she soon introduces the Earl of Gilbourne to his new ward: Mathilda Dodd. Didn’t see that coming. Half of his brain tells him to just win her for his own; the other half, the logical half, reminds him that he is damaged goods and cannot expose anyone else to the danger that surrounds him so he must get her married off ASAP. Mathilda, for her part, never intended to even consider marriage, but she just might have to change her mind if Gilbourne (Gilly-Gil-Gil??) would be the husband.
Author Ridley puts a lot of fun and laughter and tension and heat into those three weeks. Both Titus and Mathilda have tragic pasts clouded in secrecy. Titus believes he was the cause of the accident that cost the lives of his family and ever since has been a recluse. He takes his duties as Earl and his position in Parliament seriously and takes good care of his staff and those dependent upon him. But what he learned from the accident was “nothing ventured, nothing lost.” He is sure disaster is just around the corner and he will not risk love or marriage and the loss of another person that would become dear to him. He was disfigured in the accident and young ladies of the ton are repelled by his appearance but quite willing to marry for his fortune. He'll have nothing to do with them. Mathilda lost her family and suffered greatly as well but her takeaway was “nothing ventured, nothing gained” and she vowed to always do all she could for people, to be an independent woman but make friends wherever she goes. So Guardian and Ward, although only 5 years apart in age, are like oil and water. Except for that attraction, that pull, the inevitability that author Ridley so expertly weaves into their adventures and encounters and arguments – and spicy, warm, tender, heart-stopping moments.
Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of Defying the Earl for my reading pleasure and honest opinion. What a pleasure it was. I swooned through every minute of it and cannot wait for the next installment in the series from authors Erica Ridley and Darcy Burke. I voluntarily leave this review and all opinions are my own.
Titus Noble, the Earl of Gilbourne, is all three of those things. Well, he was handsome until the accident when he was a child but look closely and you can still see it. He is in Marywell to take charge of Miss Matilda Dodd until she reaches her majority in three weeks. Lady Stapleton, the woman who raised Titus after he was orphaned, is Mathilda’s aunt. Mathilda has proven to be quite a handful and Aunt Stapleton can’t manage anymore and has asked Titus to step in for the next three weeks. There is nothing he would like to do less – but – he would do anything to Lady Stapleton.
So here he is, lurking among the plants at the Marywell Ball, impatiently waiting, when through the leaves the spies the most beautiful and beguiling creature he has ever seen. He can’t take his eyes off her; he’s mesmerized, on autopilot. She catches him staring and feels that same pull. They are like two magnets, approaching, approaching, an irresistible force pulling them together. There is some conversation, maybe a little flirting, and – gasp! – a kiss. Which of course should never have happened because this is the Regency, after all.
Titus hears Lady Stapleton’ voice, they pop apart, and she soon introduces the Earl of Gilbourne to his new ward: Mathilda Dodd. Didn’t see that coming. Half of his brain tells him to just win her for his own; the other half, the logical half, reminds him that he is damaged goods and cannot expose anyone else to the danger that surrounds him so he must get her married off ASAP. Mathilda, for her part, never intended to even consider marriage, but she just might have to change her mind if Gilbourne (Gilly-Gil-Gil??) would be the husband.
Author Ridley puts a lot of fun and laughter and tension and heat into those three weeks. Both Titus and Mathilda have tragic pasts clouded in secrecy. Titus believes he was the cause of the accident that cost the lives of his family and ever since has been a recluse. He takes his duties as Earl and his position in Parliament seriously and takes good care of his staff and those dependent upon him. But what he learned from the accident was “nothing ventured, nothing lost.” He is sure disaster is just around the corner and he will not risk love or marriage and the loss of another person that would become dear to him. He was disfigured in the accident and young ladies of the ton are repelled by his appearance but quite willing to marry for his fortune. He'll have nothing to do with them. Mathilda lost her family and suffered greatly as well but her takeaway was “nothing ventured, nothing gained” and she vowed to always do all she could for people, to be an independent woman but make friends wherever she goes. So Guardian and Ward, although only 5 years apart in age, are like oil and water. Except for that attraction, that pull, the inevitability that author Ridley so expertly weaves into their adventures and encounters and arguments – and spicy, warm, tender, heart-stopping moments.
Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of Defying the Earl for my reading pleasure and honest opinion. What a pleasure it was. I swooned through every minute of it and cannot wait for the next installment in the series from authors Erica Ridley and Darcy Burke. I voluntarily leave this review and all opinions are my own.
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