What do you think?
Rate this book
The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise
When a nearly naked woman crashes into his arms, Paul, the new Earl of Latterly, knows he’s left his monk-like world behind. Raised apart from females by his misogynist father, Paul hardly knows how to speak with the delightful girl who’s dashed out of the dance hall. But in a single night’s tryst, they discover a passion he’s long denied himself. Yet to his dismay, he learns Emma is the adopted sister of the very man he seeks. The true heir to the earldom, Paul’s ne’er-do-well cousin.
Although she’s tried to escape her free-loving mother’s reputation, Emma consents to one night of lust…for a price. But as her heart falls for the stranger, she forgoes payment and flees into the night. Only to find Paul on her doorstep again, seeking her brother. And offering an inheritance that will change her family’s lives forever.
Her rapscallion brother needs training to blend with the ton, and Paul needs Emma’s help. Fear of becoming his eccentric father makes Paul skittish, and Emma’s outré family keeps the waters well-churned. But as Paul fulfills his promise to reveal the true heir, he and Emma must forge a new path to love. Before their pasts rob them of true happiness.
Although she’s tried to escape her free-loving mother’s reputation, Emma consents to one night of lust…for a price. But as her heart falls for the stranger, she forgoes payment and flees into the night. Only to find Paul on her doorstep again, seeking her brother. And offering an inheritance that will change her family’s lives forever.
Her rapscallion brother needs training to blend with the ton, and Paul needs Emma’s help. Fear of becoming his eccentric father makes Paul skittish, and Emma’s outré family keeps the waters well-churned. But as Paul fulfills his promise to reveal the true heir, he and Emma must forge a new path to love. Before their pasts rob them of true happiness.
ebook
First published November 12, 2013
12 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Kate Rothwell
22 books162 followersAlso writes as Summer Devon.
Subscribe to the Kate Rothwell/Summer Devon newsletter here. She'll only email you when there's a new release and she absolutely will never ever give away your email address to anyone.
Subscribe to the Kate Rothwell/Summer Devon newsletter here. She'll only email you when there's a new release and she absolutely will never ever give away your email address to anyone.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 24, 2016
Warning: possible spoilers!
3.5 Stars! Rounded up this time for a perfectly sweet beta Hero.
Buddy read with Lyuda
I'm starting to understand this whole buddy read business more and more. What a wonderful way to read a book and read another person's impressions whilst my own are still very fresh.
Anyway, The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise. Unless it's BDSM, I don't mind sex, frequent sex, explicit sex, sex very early in the book, whatever sex. If it gets too much, I'll just skim it. Having said that, sex in romance novels should have the purpose of reflecting the growing relationship between h/H. Otherwise, it becomes meaningless sex, or sex for the sake of sex, which is boring.
Strangely, this book doesn't even have that much sex, nor is it explicit or goes on forever. But the sex comes very, very early. And that wasn't even my real problem. My problem was that for the first few chapters we only see it from Paul's PoV. By the time Emma chimes in, I'm already left with a gazillion questions for Emma.
After reading Lyuda's wonderful review, though, I was left wondering if that hang-up didn't actually cloud my reading experience so much so that I became prejudiced.
See, the story is very good and unique, with Paul being one of the most intriguing beta heroes I've read lately, very colourful secondary characters and a solid writing. However, I found it hard to connect to Emma, not because she's TSTL or just annoying, but I reflected all of her actions based on the first few chapters.
And this is where Lyuda kicks in. Her review made a very important point. Based on their backstories, Paul and Emma, struggle with their 'bad' blood. Both trying to overcome their parents legacies, the woman-hating father (Paul's) and the free-loving mother (Emma's). Once I started to look at Emma from that angle, she made sense. At the end of the day, she's the one who has to deal with her mother's reputation first hand, and behaving as she did with Paul at their first encounter, she went against everything she worked for: Not to become like her mother!
From there on, we watch Emma and Paul struggling with their feelings and desire for each other which was tastefully executed by the author. Sadly though, Paul is the more developed character, another reason why I had such a hard time grasping Emma. In addition, we get secondary characters that were simply hilarious. I hope we will get Johnny's and Tad's story told at one point.
One last thing, the language sounded a tad bit too modern at times but it wasn't too annoying.
3.5 Stars! Rounded up this time for a perfectly sweet beta Hero.
Buddy read with Lyuda
I'm starting to understand this whole buddy read business more and more. What a wonderful way to read a book and read another person's impressions whilst my own are still very fresh.
Anyway, The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise. Unless it's BDSM, I don't mind sex, frequent sex, explicit sex, sex very early in the book, whatever sex. If it gets too much, I'll just skim it. Having said that, sex in romance novels should have the purpose of reflecting the growing relationship between h/H. Otherwise, it becomes meaningless sex, or sex for the sake of sex, which is boring.
Strangely, this book doesn't even have that much sex, nor is it explicit or goes on forever. But the sex comes very, very early. And that wasn't even my real problem. My problem was that for the first few chapters we only see it from Paul's PoV. By the time Emma chimes in, I'm already left with a gazillion questions for Emma.
After reading Lyuda's wonderful review, though, I was left wondering if that hang-up didn't actually cloud my reading experience so much so that I became prejudiced.
See, the story is very good and unique, with Paul being one of the most intriguing beta heroes I've read lately, very colourful secondary characters and a solid writing. However, I found it hard to connect to Emma, not because she's TSTL or just annoying, but I reflected all of her actions based on the first few chapters.
And this is where Lyuda kicks in. Her review made a very important point. Based on their backstories, Paul and Emma, struggle with their 'bad' blood. Both trying to overcome their parents legacies, the woman-hating father (Paul's) and the free-loving mother (Emma's). Once I started to look at Emma from that angle, she made sense. At the end of the day, she's the one who has to deal with her mother's reputation first hand, and behaving as she did with Paul at their first encounter, she went against everything she worked for: Not to become like her mother!
From there on, we watch Emma and Paul struggling with their feelings and desire for each other which was tastefully executed by the author. Sadly though, Paul is the more developed character, another reason why I had such a hard time grasping Emma. In addition, we get secondary characters that were simply hilarious. I hope we will get Johnny's and Tad's story told at one point.
One last thing, the language sounded a tad bit too modern at times but it wasn't too annoying.
February 23, 2016
Buddy read with Bubulinea
Set in New York City in the late 1800's the story doesn’t fall into a formulaic plot. It has rich memorable characters (both main and secondary) and competent writing. I was captivated from the opening scene right up to the end.
And what an interesting opening this was when our nearly naked heroine Emma stumbled into the arms of Paul, the hero, who came to America on the mission to track down a "lost" heir to his family's earldom. Paul’s mission is what made me like him from the start (although, there were moments in the story when I really wanted to knock some sense into him). He was the new Earl of Latterly. The title was his, but he's determined to do the right thing and find the “lost” heir and give away an earldom.
Paul is the most unusual hero I’ve encountered in a long time. He spent most of his childhood living apart from women, in a very strict environment with a woman-hater, misogynist father. So, when Emma stumbled into his arms, he hardly knows what to do.
The encounter with Emma turns Paul’s world upside down. It awoke a long suppressed feeling of passion and lust and more.
As for Emma, she grew up with her free-loving mother who felt in love with and collected men as some women gathered hats. Only she was the one who was purchased and then thrown away. Emma, on the other hand, is determined to better herself and raise above it. Thanks to her deceased father, a simple man who valued education, she was sent to a private school and even became a teacher there. The job was ended as soon as the school found out about her mother. And now, Emma is living in one of the tenements of New York City with her two brothers, whose main occupation is pickpocketing, while her mother is on one of her “visits” to some friends.
So, what the protagonists did next was totally against their character: their initially unorthodox meeting ended up in a night of passion.
I have to say that this plot device would normally turn me off but here it felt right and believable. It’s interesting to see how the characters interpreted the situation. For both of them, this was a defeat of a lifelong effort to rise above, a waiving of a white flag to the unscrupulous forth called “bad blood”. But there was also something else there, something that made them both skittish and afraid, something that, in normal circumstances, would be called attraction.
Not expecting to see each other again, their world collides again when Paul learned that Emma is the half-sister of the very man he seeks - a “lost" heir.
What follows, is engaging and delightful story of honorable beta man who overcame his sense of self-worthlessness with a help of a warm and loving woman and her rumbustious family.
Overall, a very enjoyable book made more delightful by buddy-read experience. Thanks Bubulinea!
"I feel like..." She gasped. "I'm some iron filings and you're a magnet. I haven't a chance."
"I would say that I was the filings," he muttered.
Set in New York City in the late 1800's the story doesn’t fall into a formulaic plot. It has rich memorable characters (both main and secondary) and competent writing. I was captivated from the opening scene right up to the end.
And what an interesting opening this was when our nearly naked heroine Emma stumbled into the arms of Paul, the hero, who came to America on the mission to track down a "lost" heir to his family's earldom. Paul’s mission is what made me like him from the start (although, there were moments in the story when I really wanted to knock some sense into him). He was the new Earl of Latterly. The title was his, but he's determined to do the right thing and find the “lost” heir and give away an earldom.
Paul is the most unusual hero I’ve encountered in a long time. He spent most of his childhood living apart from women, in a very strict environment with a woman-hater, misogynist father. So, when Emma stumbled into his arms, he hardly knows what to do.
It was an odd moment to be reminded of his lack of experience, but as he stared up at her, he realized he had never seen a live woman entirely without clothes. Not surprising, considering his upbringing. But after he left Winsforth, he’d met women. He’d even had what the Winsforth rector called congress of the unmentionable sort - but those few women in his past had not been completely naked.
The encounter with Emma turns Paul’s world upside down. It awoke a long suppressed feeling of passion and lust and more.
As for Emma, she grew up with her free-loving mother who felt in love with and collected men as some women gathered hats. Only she was the one who was purchased and then thrown away. Emma, on the other hand, is determined to better herself and raise above it. Thanks to her deceased father, a simple man who valued education, she was sent to a private school and even became a teacher there. The job was ended as soon as the school found out about her mother. And now, Emma is living in one of the tenements of New York City with her two brothers, whose main occupation is pickpocketing, while her mother is on one of her “visits” to some friends.
So, what the protagonists did next was totally against their character: their initially unorthodox meeting ended up in a night of passion.
I have to say that this plot device would normally turn me off but here it felt right and believable. It’s interesting to see how the characters interpreted the situation. For both of them, this was a defeat of a lifelong effort to rise above, a waiving of a white flag to the unscrupulous forth called “bad blood”. But there was also something else there, something that made them both skittish and afraid, something that, in normal circumstances, would be called attraction.
Not expecting to see each other again, their world collides again when Paul learned that Emma is the half-sister of the very man he seeks - a “lost" heir.
What follows, is engaging and delightful story of honorable beta man who overcame his sense of self-worthlessness with a help of a warm and loving woman and her rumbustious family.
She had taken his worst fear and shoved it aside as if it was a feather, not a huge, insurmountable wall
And speaking of Emma’s colorful family…They’re a delightful bunch (although, I’m on a fence about their mother). The interactions between Emma and her two younger brothers were genuine, funny, and refreshing and provided a needed lightness to the story.Overall, a very enjoyable book made more delightful by buddy-read experience. Thanks Bubulinea!
July 5, 2021
Audiobook Review:
"The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise" is a first by Kate Rothwell, new author to this reader. I enjoyed this story and thought the characters were well-developed and story was well-written. I also thought the plot was very good. My only takeaway was the intimacy between the main characters early on in the story. I would have preferred a gradual build in their relationship to getting to their intimacy. Starting off that way, took something away from the story for me.
With regards to the narration, Annie Aldinton was a new narrator to this reader and did a nice job of narrating.
"The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise" is a first by Kate Rothwell, new author to this reader. I enjoyed this story and thought the characters were well-developed and story was well-written. I also thought the plot was very good. My only takeaway was the intimacy between the main characters early on in the story. I would have preferred a gradual build in their relationship to getting to their intimacy. Starting off that way, took something away from the story for me.
With regards to the narration, Annie Aldinton was a new narrator to this reader and did a nice job of narrating.
Want to read
December 5, 2013I liked the book so. . . it's not like I'm lying about my rating.
January 28, 2014
This is not a mere romance, although the cover may lead you to believe otherwise. In fact, I think the cover of this book (and possibly the title) does a disservice to the writing -- and that's the main reason I wanted to post a review, something I rarely do. Kate Rothwell's style is direct and spare, yet she is able to create vivid scenes for the readers. It's hard to write funny, but Rothwell does so when the story warrants it, in a very understated way, and the dialogue throughout is great. What the characters say really shows who they are and also moves the story along. These characters are multi-dimensional and -- when it comes down to it -- not your typical romantic leads. Paul is a repressed aristocrat with issues, yet, somehow, these flaws make him a perfect match for Emma, an "overworked Cinderella" and someone who knows him better than he knows himself. And I have to say it: the sex scenes are hot and really well-done. Not at all sentimental and rises above the genre. I would highly recommend this novel and will be checking out Rothwell's other titles.
December 5, 2013
This one was a pretty quick read. It had a lot of different plot elements but managed to still seem a pretty straightforward story (I hate when authors let a story get away from them and confuse me). I love that everyone responded in ways that made SENSE. At first the actions of the main characters seemed random and purely for the purpose of moving the plot along, but as their characters become clear it makes sense. What can I say? I just really enjoyed this story and it was exactly what I needed with finals coming up.
![Profile Image for ᑭᑌᑎƳᗩ [Punya Reviews...].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1572968006i%2F3840999._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
December 11, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
I’ve previously read 2 books by Kate Rothwell (aka Summer Devon) and enjoyed each quite a lot, so I was more than excited when the author offered me a review copy of her newest release, The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise. I just finished this and boy, I’m glad to report that it was a fun, sexy novel with an adorable H and a spunky h and that I’ve enjoyed this too.
Let me tell you why I find KR’s writing enjoyable. For a starter, I feel at home with her stories. They are well-written, different, without any headache inducing melodrama. KR’s heroes and heroines usually possess traits that I admire and enjoy in the characters of a romance novel. The heroes are no big rakes or scoundrels; they’re more or less regular guys with hot possessive streak for their women. And they know how to give it sexy without bragging about it to the world. I love it how the author portrays that a hero doesn’t need to sleep with half the world to be considered sexy *eyeroll*. To top it off, her heroines generally possess a strong character, in addition to their intelligence and that wicked sense of humor that never fails to get me rolling with laughter. I can connect with them on a level which is very satisfying for me personally. Paul and Emma were no different.
Paul arrived from London on a mission. He just became the earl, a title that didn’t belong to him anyway. He’s also a baron by birth, or would be once his father passes on. But this ‘duty’ his rakish, dissolute uncle pressed upon him has been niggling at him ever since he passed away. Paul could’ve very conveniently forgotten it, taking over George’s vast wealth with aplomb. Damn his good-guy nature and double damn his conscience! George, on his deathbed, made him promise that he’ll do the right thing, and Paul needs to do the right thing. When he stepped into that dark, stinky alleyway of the vast New York City to find his deceased uncle’s heir, the last thing Paul expected to find was an armful of nude, beautiful woman.
Now why the heir is in New York, of all places and needs to be found? There lies a long, complicated story; or maybe, not so very complicated.
As I mentioned, George was a rake of the worst order. He enjoyed whatever came his way as long as it’s drink and women. But somehow, he also managed to improve the Earldom and its financial prospects. And somehow, he fell in love with this beautiful barmaid some 20+ years ago and married her out of the blue. I felt that Rita was the one after his own heart, since they shared the same kind of promiscuity where relationships were concerned. Needless to say, George’s family didn’t care for this ‘match’ and Rita was kicked out of England. She left for America, already pregnant with George’s baby. George married again, as no one believed that he really married Rita. This marriage didn’t result in any heir. George made it so that Rita and her family live well. Rita already had a daughter from a previous marriage when they met, George had had some vague notion that he had a son by her. Which is why, Paul is now in New York, looking for that prodigal son; one Rupert Jonathan to be precise.
Paul has had his own men investigate stuff about the family. He has learned that the marriage was valid, only waiting for the papers to arrive. He has also learned that while the family was living in a small-town where his uncle had an estate, until very recently they had to move due to the scintillating characters of Rita and her son, his cousin Johnny. He knows that Rita has a daughter too, apart from Johnny and a younger son, whose father is unknown.
Now to talk about Paul, gradually we get to learn some dark aspects of his past. It was apparent that Paul strictly controlled his sexual urges... at least most of it. It’s not that he’s a virgin but he has very little experience comparing to men of his age. There’s a reason behind it; his preachy, hysterical father dominated his childhood, drumming down the moral dilemma of having sex with a woman and how evil sex is for a man’s constitution. Paul witnessed some pretty horrible stuff by his father as a kid that somewhat tainted his views of this so-called ‘animal urge’; something his father always blamed was inspired by women. His father has gone mad after a murder and is now put away in some mental institution. Paul is scared as hell that he’ll someday turn out to be just like him.
But, Paul has ‘those urges’ like any other red-blooded man, yet, it’s been some years that he’s had sex. It does render a man dizzy, insane… so, when this beautiful girl throws herself at him, talking to him as if she knows him, Paul starts feeling ‘things’. Yet, something about her felt just... right. Even though, at the carriage when he offers her a lift, it’s sorted out that Emma has mixed him up with one of Johnny’s friends, Paul still doesn’t want to let her go. It seems as if Emma doesn’t wanna leave either. They kiss and Paul makes up his mind to take her to his home for one night only. He already assumed that Emma is a lose woman. After all, she admitted to have been dancing in that Men’s Club until her recent misfortune of losing her attire of the evening and that she’s not a virgin. Yet, Paul was so attracted to her that he just had to have her. Knowing Emma is willing only fueled that fire in him.
Well, would that it was that easy! Even though they end up having sex (hot sex at that), things don’t end very well. It was clear that Emma is not easy with this, and Paul doesn’t know how to make it up to her but offering her some monetary compensation. He felt so guilty, you have no idea. Poor babe! He even takes care of Emma’s feet that were cut on that alleyway. Then Emma leaves after a misunderstanding, leaving Paul to contemplate going after her... because he still didn’t want to let her go.
The problem for Emma was her budding feelings for this man she just met and became intimate with, which will not do. She thought she ca... well, try and earn something. Many girls with dire financial straits do after all. Emma has never prostituted herself for money; she knows she’s not made for this. It might be that schooling she had in a lady’s comportment in an institution of that small-town where they used to live. It’s such a difficult situation for Emma, forever hovering between the crevices of social inequality.
When it was revealed that Emma is Rita’s daughter, I was amazed because I wasn’t expecting this. We meet Emma’s very colorful family as the story progresses. Her vivacious mother is not with them but her younger brothers are. Johnny is somewhere in his early 20s and really handsome; an Adonis, having his mother’s blonde, blue-eyed good-looks. A charmer to boots, Johnny knows his appeal very well. He’s also very proficient in all things thieving and scamming, which he was very proudly teaching his younger brother Tad, much to Emma’s dismay. But Tad looks nothing like Rita, Johnny or Emma, who has auburn hair. He’s is all dark like a gypsy.
TBH, I liked this family instantly, even though I reserved my comments on Rita. I just enjoyed the conversations between the siblings too much. They’re an easy bunch without any artifice. Yes, Johnny likes to steal and is a seasoned pickpocket but he takes life in stride and makes do with whatever it offers him, much like his mother. Like his father, Johnny is quite popular with the ladies too, which couldn’t be avoided considering how gorgeous he is. Tad is his worshipful minion. This can’t be said about Emma however. She’s the most serious individual in the family. The only one, who also apparently possesses a conscience and common sense. She is looking for a practical, honest job to live by. But her disastrous encounter with that handsome stranger refuses to leave her mind. It was not about sex. But Emma doubts herself. She’s been duped once by an a$$ who took her virginity at a young age. She was the fool who thought he meant to marry her. But all I could see a guileless young girl who was taken advantage of by a much older man, who had sweet words and a handsome demeanor but an a$$ all the same. Emma can’t let that foolish young girl rule her head anymore. So she hides away Paul’s dresses which she borrowed, and decides to go about her daily life.
Which, however, was not to be. It doesn’t take Paul much time or effort (thru his own men) to figure out who exactly Emma is and what kinda mess he’d created by sleeping with her. Poor guy, always burdened with that damnable conscience. *sigh* But Paul has to face it. The sooner he gets over with it, the sooner he can move onto living his dull life, even start practicing medicine again. So he leaves a letter for Johnny to meet up with him so that he can break the news to him and discuss what is to come afterwards. Johnny was aware of his father of course, but having never met him or any of his family, he naturally thought no one would bother about him. Then he goes and gets himself into trouble, and ends up in jail. Emma comes to rescue him, not knowing Tad has already ran to Paul (because his address was there in his letter) for help.
And so they meet again, this time, with newly-released Johnny and Tad. Tad’s hero-worship shifts pretty quickly towards Paul. Emma is flustered and annoyed. She doesn’t want his help, still unaware of Paul’s intentions regarding Johnny. But Johnny, oh, I totally fell for this charming rogue. There was just something about him altogether. Johnny wore confidence like a second skin, and had an easy smile but inside, I detected hidden depth and a few vulnerabilities larking; a result of his station in life no doubt. His remark on how ladies just want to have ‘fun’ with him struck me because like those common rakes, he wasn’t boasting about it. I didn’t think Johnny particularly liked that kinda empty attention. He also proves soon enough that he’s a quick study, a hard worker who only needed a shove to the right direction.
But for now, Paul discovers that he has his work cut out where the new Earl is concerned. If his now ruined parlor (and a cringing butler) is to take into consideration, which Johnny and Tad muddied upon hearing the news jumping up and down the sofa, the new Earl needed to learn almost everything an English gentleman might posses. From perfect English and washing his mouth off dirty words in mixed company to deportment and dressing up. Everything. After all, Johnny will have to live in England to assume his responsibilities. Paul is highly doubtful about the success of this endeavor, still he takes up on the challenge, calling in help (the said butler included) to train the new Earl. But we know that he wanted to keep Emma close too. ;)
Paul suggests that Emma, Tad and Johnny move in his townhouse immediately but this will not do for Emma. She can barely keep her head straight when Paul is near, how can she live with him in the same house? But she knows it’s futile to disagree with Paul’s decision and they take up residence. Emma is happy to have her own room at last, a beautiful one at that. Tad is exuberant for have his own too. I found the lessons to train the new earl vastly entertaining. It was just fun to watch Johnny faltering, then learning, always with that roguish smile on his face, making Paul think if his uncle had half of Johnny’s looks and charm in his youth, it’s no wonder ladies toppled over themselves for George. Paul also assumed that Johnny’s Adonis-like looks will help smooth his way to a great extent. With enough polish, Johnny just might become a first class English Earl. Or so Paul keeps telling himself, so that he can be done with this farce and move on with his life ASAP.
For me, the banters between Johnny, Paul, Emma... even Tad and the rest of Paul’s household staff was a treat to read. Those were hilarious, full of witty remarks. But it was also frustrating how Paul and Emma are pulled into this mire of push and pull (can’t live with/can’t live without-type) between them. Both were confused, their own suspicions and vulnerabilities ruling their head. What I wanted was them doing each-other, and frequently. The chemistry was so palpable, it made me miserable how they became determined to keep distance. *sigh*
After some times, they decide to return to the small-town where Emma and her family used to live. There, they meet up with Rita.
Meeting Rita was an exceptional moment for me too. I already said, I reserved my opinion of her beforehand, not knowing what to think... but she surprised me. Rita is not only sexy and beautiful but also an intelligent and sensitive woman who can give freely, completely, when she wants to. For all her so-called ‘experience’ with men and frankness about her affairs, she seemed rather a guileless woman to me. Moreover, she was married to both the father of her children. Tad is not hers, but a charity case and yet, Rita loves him like her own. It was also clear that she and George loved each-other in their own weird way. She knew how to keep a secret, even if it dragged her own reputation through mud. That just goes to show her amazing strength and personality. She won me over, just as she did all those men. Even Paul wasn’t spared of her charm (pretty apparent where Johnny got his), though he didn’t fantasize about her sexually (thank God for that lol). What he was more worried about was her reaction of him sleeping with Emma. He shouldn’t have at all, because Rita approved of him from the first moment. The matchmaking was clear as daylight, making both Paul and Emma uncomfortable. But Rita understood instantly what was going on... or at the least, the hint of it. She was all too happy because, I felt, she knew that in Paul, Emma would find a bright and loveable future for herself.
They settle in George’s house. It wasn’t theirs when they were living here before. They lived in a small cottage nearby. The irony, because Johnny now owns it all! At that moment, Emma’s past comes knocking; one Mr. Samuel, that a$$hole who took her virginity and left. Now that the jerk heard of Johnny’s good fortune, he has returned to ‘show his affections and good intentions’ towards Emma. Emma saw through it... almost. Her head is now always full of Paul and in comparison, Samuel doesn’t even come close.
The presence of Samuel creates a gap between Paul and Emma. Paul immediately understands who this guy is from Emma’s reaction. More so, when she steals away with him to have walks. But Emma did that to make sure she has no lingering attraction to Samuel, also to deflate his nagging (and presumptuous) announcement of a match with him. The guy had some balls and I wanted to crush it with my bare hands... well, no, not bare, with gloves maybe! :/ I didn’t have to worry for long, cause Emma took care of it at the end of the story. *snickers* But the real fun was before the epilogue and you gotta read how the family came together and took it upon themselves to solve this really ‘complicated’ thing between Paul and Emma; by throwing them together in an empty cabin on their way to England. What best way is there for ‘figuring things out’, hmm? lol It was just PRICELESS. I laughed, shook my head and then, just grinned. Good God, what a family! I *heart*!
In the end, I wished for a couple of more chapters of Paul and Emma’s married life. I needed to see more between them without all those interruptions. They were happy no doubt but I wanted to bask in that happiness for a little while longer. Now, I want Johnny’s book (duh!). I even have an idea of what kinda h he should be paired with, but I'll leave Ms. Rothwell to decide, if she chooses to give the dashing rogue a book *squints at the sky, looking for a wishing star...* Meanwhile, I’m going to count my days.......... 4.25 stars for this lovely story.
I received a review copy from the author in exchange of an honest review and would like to thank her for it.
I’ve previously read 2 books by Kate Rothwell (aka Summer Devon) and enjoyed each quite a lot, so I was more than excited when the author offered me a review copy of her newest release, The Earl, a Girl, and a Promise. I just finished this and boy, I’m glad to report that it was a fun, sexy novel with an adorable H and a spunky h and that I’ve enjoyed this too.
Let me tell you why I find KR’s writing enjoyable. For a starter, I feel at home with her stories. They are well-written, different, without any headache inducing melodrama. KR’s heroes and heroines usually possess traits that I admire and enjoy in the characters of a romance novel. The heroes are no big rakes or scoundrels; they’re more or less regular guys with hot possessive streak for their women. And they know how to give it sexy without bragging about it to the world. I love it how the author portrays that a hero doesn’t need to sleep with half the world to be considered sexy *eyeroll*. To top it off, her heroines generally possess a strong character, in addition to their intelligence and that wicked sense of humor that never fails to get me rolling with laughter. I can connect with them on a level which is very satisfying for me personally. Paul and Emma were no different.
Paul arrived from London on a mission. He just became the earl, a title that didn’t belong to him anyway. He’s also a baron by birth, or would be once his father passes on. But this ‘duty’ his rakish, dissolute uncle pressed upon him has been niggling at him ever since he passed away. Paul could’ve very conveniently forgotten it, taking over George’s vast wealth with aplomb. Damn his good-guy nature and double damn his conscience! George, on his deathbed, made him promise that he’ll do the right thing, and Paul needs to do the right thing. When he stepped into that dark, stinky alleyway of the vast New York City to find his deceased uncle’s heir, the last thing Paul expected to find was an armful of nude, beautiful woman.
Now why the heir is in New York, of all places and needs to be found? There lies a long, complicated story; or maybe, not so very complicated.
As I mentioned, George was a rake of the worst order. He enjoyed whatever came his way as long as it’s drink and women. But somehow, he also managed to improve the Earldom and its financial prospects. And somehow, he fell in love with this beautiful barmaid some 20+ years ago and married her out of the blue. I felt that Rita was the one after his own heart, since they shared the same kind of promiscuity where relationships were concerned. Needless to say, George’s family didn’t care for this ‘match’ and Rita was kicked out of England. She left for America, already pregnant with George’s baby. George married again, as no one believed that he really married Rita. This marriage didn’t result in any heir. George made it so that Rita and her family live well. Rita already had a daughter from a previous marriage when they met, George had had some vague notion that he had a son by her. Which is why, Paul is now in New York, looking for that prodigal son; one Rupert Jonathan to be precise.
Paul has had his own men investigate stuff about the family. He has learned that the marriage was valid, only waiting for the papers to arrive. He has also learned that while the family was living in a small-town where his uncle had an estate, until very recently they had to move due to the scintillating characters of Rita and her son, his cousin Johnny. He knows that Rita has a daughter too, apart from Johnny and a younger son, whose father is unknown.
Now to talk about Paul, gradually we get to learn some dark aspects of his past. It was apparent that Paul strictly controlled his sexual urges... at least most of it. It’s not that he’s a virgin but he has very little experience comparing to men of his age. There’s a reason behind it; his preachy, hysterical father dominated his childhood, drumming down the moral dilemma of having sex with a woman and how evil sex is for a man’s constitution. Paul witnessed some pretty horrible stuff by his father as a kid that somewhat tainted his views of this so-called ‘animal urge’; something his father always blamed was inspired by women. His father has gone mad after a murder and is now put away in some mental institution. Paul is scared as hell that he’ll someday turn out to be just like him.
But, Paul has ‘those urges’ like any other red-blooded man, yet, it’s been some years that he’s had sex. It does render a man dizzy, insane… so, when this beautiful girl throws herself at him, talking to him as if she knows him, Paul starts feeling ‘things’. Yet, something about her felt just... right. Even though, at the carriage when he offers her a lift, it’s sorted out that Emma has mixed him up with one of Johnny’s friends, Paul still doesn’t want to let her go. It seems as if Emma doesn’t wanna leave either. They kiss and Paul makes up his mind to take her to his home for one night only. He already assumed that Emma is a lose woman. After all, she admitted to have been dancing in that Men’s Club until her recent misfortune of losing her attire of the evening and that she’s not a virgin. Yet, Paul was so attracted to her that he just had to have her. Knowing Emma is willing only fueled that fire in him.
Well, would that it was that easy! Even though they end up having sex (hot sex at that), things don’t end very well. It was clear that Emma is not easy with this, and Paul doesn’t know how to make it up to her but offering her some monetary compensation. He felt so guilty, you have no idea. Poor babe! He even takes care of Emma’s feet that were cut on that alleyway. Then Emma leaves after a misunderstanding, leaving Paul to contemplate going after her... because he still didn’t want to let her go.
The problem for Emma was her budding feelings for this man she just met and became intimate with, which will not do. She thought she ca... well, try and earn something. Many girls with dire financial straits do after all. Emma has never prostituted herself for money; she knows she’s not made for this. It might be that schooling she had in a lady’s comportment in an institution of that small-town where they used to live. It’s such a difficult situation for Emma, forever hovering between the crevices of social inequality.
When it was revealed that Emma is Rita’s daughter, I was amazed because I wasn’t expecting this. We meet Emma’s very colorful family as the story progresses. Her vivacious mother is not with them but her younger brothers are. Johnny is somewhere in his early 20s and really handsome; an Adonis, having his mother’s blonde, blue-eyed good-looks. A charmer to boots, Johnny knows his appeal very well. He’s also very proficient in all things thieving and scamming, which he was very proudly teaching his younger brother Tad, much to Emma’s dismay. But Tad looks nothing like Rita, Johnny or Emma, who has auburn hair. He’s is all dark like a gypsy.
TBH, I liked this family instantly, even though I reserved my comments on Rita. I just enjoyed the conversations between the siblings too much. They’re an easy bunch without any artifice. Yes, Johnny likes to steal and is a seasoned pickpocket but he takes life in stride and makes do with whatever it offers him, much like his mother. Like his father, Johnny is quite popular with the ladies too, which couldn’t be avoided considering how gorgeous he is. Tad is his worshipful minion. This can’t be said about Emma however. She’s the most serious individual in the family. The only one, who also apparently possesses a conscience and common sense. She is looking for a practical, honest job to live by. But her disastrous encounter with that handsome stranger refuses to leave her mind. It was not about sex. But Emma doubts herself. She’s been duped once by an a$$ who took her virginity at a young age. She was the fool who thought he meant to marry her. But all I could see a guileless young girl who was taken advantage of by a much older man, who had sweet words and a handsome demeanor but an a$$ all the same. Emma can’t let that foolish young girl rule her head anymore. So she hides away Paul’s dresses which she borrowed, and decides to go about her daily life.
Which, however, was not to be. It doesn’t take Paul much time or effort (thru his own men) to figure out who exactly Emma is and what kinda mess he’d created by sleeping with her. Poor guy, always burdened with that damnable conscience. *sigh* But Paul has to face it. The sooner he gets over with it, the sooner he can move onto living his dull life, even start practicing medicine again. So he leaves a letter for Johnny to meet up with him so that he can break the news to him and discuss what is to come afterwards. Johnny was aware of his father of course, but having never met him or any of his family, he naturally thought no one would bother about him. Then he goes and gets himself into trouble, and ends up in jail. Emma comes to rescue him, not knowing Tad has already ran to Paul (because his address was there in his letter) for help.
And so they meet again, this time, with newly-released Johnny and Tad. Tad’s hero-worship shifts pretty quickly towards Paul. Emma is flustered and annoyed. She doesn’t want his help, still unaware of Paul’s intentions regarding Johnny. But Johnny, oh, I totally fell for this charming rogue. There was just something about him altogether. Johnny wore confidence like a second skin, and had an easy smile but inside, I detected hidden depth and a few vulnerabilities larking; a result of his station in life no doubt. His remark on how ladies just want to have ‘fun’ with him struck me because like those common rakes, he wasn’t boasting about it. I didn’t think Johnny particularly liked that kinda empty attention. He also proves soon enough that he’s a quick study, a hard worker who only needed a shove to the right direction.
But for now, Paul discovers that he has his work cut out where the new Earl is concerned. If his now ruined parlor (and a cringing butler) is to take into consideration, which Johnny and Tad muddied upon hearing the news jumping up and down the sofa, the new Earl needed to learn almost everything an English gentleman might posses. From perfect English and washing his mouth off dirty words in mixed company to deportment and dressing up. Everything. After all, Johnny will have to live in England to assume his responsibilities. Paul is highly doubtful about the success of this endeavor, still he takes up on the challenge, calling in help (the said butler included) to train the new Earl. But we know that he wanted to keep Emma close too. ;)
Paul suggests that Emma, Tad and Johnny move in his townhouse immediately but this will not do for Emma. She can barely keep her head straight when Paul is near, how can she live with him in the same house? But she knows it’s futile to disagree with Paul’s decision and they take up residence. Emma is happy to have her own room at last, a beautiful one at that. Tad is exuberant for have his own too. I found the lessons to train the new earl vastly entertaining. It was just fun to watch Johnny faltering, then learning, always with that roguish smile on his face, making Paul think if his uncle had half of Johnny’s looks and charm in his youth, it’s no wonder ladies toppled over themselves for George. Paul also assumed that Johnny’s Adonis-like looks will help smooth his way to a great extent. With enough polish, Johnny just might become a first class English Earl. Or so Paul keeps telling himself, so that he can be done with this farce and move on with his life ASAP.
For me, the banters between Johnny, Paul, Emma... even Tad and the rest of Paul’s household staff was a treat to read. Those were hilarious, full of witty remarks. But it was also frustrating how Paul and Emma are pulled into this mire of push and pull (can’t live with/can’t live without-type) between them. Both were confused, their own suspicions and vulnerabilities ruling their head. What I wanted was them doing each-other, and frequently. The chemistry was so palpable, it made me miserable how they became determined to keep distance. *sigh*
After some times, they decide to return to the small-town where Emma and her family used to live. There, they meet up with Rita.
Meeting Rita was an exceptional moment for me too. I already said, I reserved my opinion of her beforehand, not knowing what to think... but she surprised me. Rita is not only sexy and beautiful but also an intelligent and sensitive woman who can give freely, completely, when she wants to. For all her so-called ‘experience’ with men and frankness about her affairs, she seemed rather a guileless woman to me. Moreover, she was married to both the father of her children. Tad is not hers, but a charity case and yet, Rita loves him like her own. It was also clear that she and George loved each-other in their own weird way. She knew how to keep a secret, even if it dragged her own reputation through mud. That just goes to show her amazing strength and personality. She won me over, just as she did all those men. Even Paul wasn’t spared of her charm (pretty apparent where Johnny got his), though he didn’t fantasize about her sexually (thank God for that lol). What he was more worried about was her reaction of him sleeping with Emma. He shouldn’t have at all, because Rita approved of him from the first moment. The matchmaking was clear as daylight, making both Paul and Emma uncomfortable. But Rita understood instantly what was going on... or at the least, the hint of it. She was all too happy because, I felt, she knew that in Paul, Emma would find a bright and loveable future for herself.
They settle in George’s house. It wasn’t theirs when they were living here before. They lived in a small cottage nearby. The irony, because Johnny now owns it all! At that moment, Emma’s past comes knocking; one Mr. Samuel, that a$$hole who took her virginity and left. Now that the jerk heard of Johnny’s good fortune, he has returned to ‘show his affections and good intentions’ towards Emma. Emma saw through it... almost. Her head is now always full of Paul and in comparison, Samuel doesn’t even come close.
The presence of Samuel creates a gap between Paul and Emma. Paul immediately understands who this guy is from Emma’s reaction. More so, when she steals away with him to have walks. But Emma did that to make sure she has no lingering attraction to Samuel, also to deflate his nagging (and presumptuous) announcement of a match with him. The guy had some balls and I wanted to crush it with my bare hands... well, no, not bare, with gloves maybe! :/ I didn’t have to worry for long, cause Emma took care of it at the end of the story. *snickers* But the real fun was before the epilogue and you gotta read how the family came together and took it upon themselves to solve this really ‘complicated’ thing between Paul and Emma; by throwing them together in an empty cabin on their way to England. What best way is there for ‘figuring things out’, hmm? lol It was just PRICELESS. I laughed, shook my head and then, just grinned. Good God, what a family! I *heart*!
In the end, I wished for a couple of more chapters of Paul and Emma’s married life. I needed to see more between them without all those interruptions. They were happy no doubt but I wanted to bask in that happiness for a little while longer. Now, I want Johnny’s book (duh!). I even have an idea of what kinda h he should be paired with, but I'll leave Ms. Rothwell to decide, if she chooses to give the dashing rogue a book *squints at the sky, looking for a wishing star...* Meanwhile, I’m going to count my days.......... 4.25 stars for this lovely story.
I received a review copy from the author in exchange of an honest review and would like to thank her for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
March 25, 2021The Earl, a Girl & a Promise was an Audible freebie that started with a lot of action and plot but the hero was difficult to like, cold and awkward. I promised not to bother with books not worth my time but I did give the book 5 whole chapters before returning it. I may have been spoiled with Regency romances lately but if it doesn't hook me early I'm done.
April 19, 2021
I am not sure why this book has a lower rating because I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are well developed and the plot is great. I also enjoyed the narrator. Happy reading and listening!
November 10, 2020
Didn't really like this book. I didn't like that at first the hero thought that the heroin was a prostitute. I also didn't like the way her brother treated her.
February 15, 2014
This book, set in the Victorian age, is the interesting love story of man denying his true self, and a woman who is fighting to better herself and not become a woman of easy virtue like her mother.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 12, 2021
Interesting premise but too much angst and intrigue. I really liked Paul but he spent a lot of time thinking and not a lot of time with Emma.
3 stars for all books where the relationship is back and forth until the end of the book and the plot is the focus rather than the relationship. 3 stars if I don't plan on rereading it. 3 stars it's not funny or light and there are too many bad guys.
3 stars for all books where the relationship is back and forth until the end of the book and the plot is the focus rather than the relationship. 3 stars if I don't plan on rereading it. 3 stars it's not funny or light and there are too many bad guys.
February 26, 2019
More of a three and a half star rating, but I rounded up for the family dynamics and the chemistry between Paul and Emma. I really liked Rita, Johnny, and Tad, and the confrontation with Bishop was well done.
August 10, 2021
Solid okay, I didn't love the narrator, but she did well enough.
The main conflict between the MC's felt a little too drawn out. Specially on the hero's side. Like if he'd really listened to her, so yeah the angst felt contrived.
The main conflict between the MC's felt a little too drawn out. Specially on the hero's side. Like if he'd really listened to her, so yeah the angst felt contrived.
January 21, 2021
Not my taste. Might try again later but doubt it
February 17, 2021
Welllll.....
this wasn't for me.
But when you open with a sex scene, I expect another sex scene. Or a few of them. Definitely a few of them.
this wasn't for me.
But when you open with a sex scene, I expect another sex scene. Or a few of them. Definitely a few of them.
June 17, 2021
I enjoy this authors stories
February 5, 2022
I loved the beginning of this book, but didn't really enjoy the last 10% or so. Overall, it was a fun read and I may revisit it again, but it wasn't my favorite ever historical romance.
May 17, 2022
Great Story.
September 14, 2023
I listened to the audio book and enjoyed it to give it 4 stars... Pam James
November 6, 2020
Audible Catalogue
AUDIOBOOK: Read 30 & 31 October 2020
7hrs 17min
Narrator: Annie Aldinton does a pretty good job
I liked it.Not the usual regency plot line from rags to riches.
AUDIOBOOK: Read 30 & 31 October 2020
7hrs 17min
Narrator: Annie Aldinton does a pretty good job
I liked it.Not the usual regency plot line from rags to riches.
March 19, 2015
This book started off with a bang and didn't slow down for several pages. A novelty type of storyline with a man who had spent most of his childhood living apart from women, in a very strict environment with a woman hater - his father, who was nuts. Yet, Paul, our Main Guy appeared to be more well balanced when it came to honor and gentlemanly behavior than many heroes in this genre.
When Paul decides to leave England and go to America to track down a "lost" heir to his family's earldom, he has no idea of how his life will change. The title would have been Paul's, but he's determined to do the right thing. When he finally "finds" the Smith family, he gets much more than he ever bargained for in the person of a young lady who crashes into him nearly stark naked as she kinda falls out of a building. It's not as bad as it sounds, but Paul's body will not behave once he crashes into the lovely Emma. Eventually, the book slows down and actually became too much of the same old, "I can't have her - must do the right thing," boring drivel for about 1/2 of the book. Then, we get some action in the right direction toward the end.
Still, it gave me a lot of good laughs and I really liked Paul and Emma. I truly hope Johnny gets his story. Initially, he was the type of character I have no use for, but when all was said and done, he turned out to be a totally cool guy.
When Paul decides to leave England and go to America to track down a "lost" heir to his family's earldom, he has no idea of how his life will change. The title would have been Paul's, but he's determined to do the right thing. When he finally "finds" the Smith family, he gets much more than he ever bargained for in the person of a young lady who crashes into him nearly stark naked as she kinda falls out of a building. It's not as bad as it sounds, but Paul's body will not behave once he crashes into the lovely Emma. Eventually, the book slows down and actually became too much of the same old, "I can't have her - must do the right thing," boring drivel for about 1/2 of the book. Then, we get some action in the right direction toward the end.
Still, it gave me a lot of good laughs and I really liked Paul and Emma. I truly hope Johnny gets his story. Initially, he was the type of character I have no use for, but when all was said and done, he turned out to be a totally cool guy.
January 2, 2017
First I should say I was fortunate enough to receive a free copy of the audio book by Kate Rothwell and narrated. By Annie Aldinton. Ms. Aldinton gave a 5 star performance by fully bringing Ms. Rothwell's characters to life! I admitted that this book was a first for me as far as reading Ms. Rothwell's work and also by listening to books narrated by Ms. Aldinton. This story was a fast paced adventure with unexpected twists and turns landing it in a delightful recency style romance! The characters were well developed and had depth to their personalities. The plot held my interest and was unique to my past experiences. Personally, I very much enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more works by Ms. Rothwell and listening to more audio books narrated by the talented Ms. Aldinton. Easy to recommend this delightful book/audio book for all my friends.
December 1, 2013
The plot was predictable but it was still an engaging story. I pretty much read it in a single day because I couldn't put it down!
Paul and Emma meet one fateful night when Emma just so happens to be completely naked....which awakens feelings in Paul that he didn't know existed.
They spend the night together, and in the morning Emma runs off hoping to never see him again.
Unfortunately for her, that was not to be the case! Paul just so happens to be looking for her brother, as he suspects that Johnny is in fact the real Earl.
His hunch turns out to be correct due to an illegitimate marriage.
Now Johnny and Emma will be going back to England, but will Paul be able to get past his fears and allow himself to be happy?
Paul and Emma meet one fateful night when Emma just so happens to be completely naked....which awakens feelings in Paul that he didn't know existed.
They spend the night together, and in the morning Emma runs off hoping to never see him again.
Unfortunately for her, that was not to be the case! Paul just so happens to be looking for her brother, as he suspects that Johnny is in fact the real Earl.
His hunch turns out to be correct due to an illegitimate marriage.
Now Johnny and Emma will be going back to England, but will Paul be able to get past his fears and allow himself to be happy?
November 17, 2013
This book is such a breath of fresh air! It has humor, passion, and some of the best dialogue I've read in a long time. It also feels very true to the time period, with lots of lovely details about the Victorian era. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
June 12, 2014
Read the review at InD'tale Magazine
http://indtale.com/reviews/historical...
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews