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The Marriage Game #4
Desiring Lady Caro
To escape her past, a woman runs off to Venice—and into the arms of an earl . . .
Haunted by her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the solace of her godmother’s palazzo in Venice. But if Caro was hoping to escape the charms of marriage-minded men, she’s come to the wrong place. And she’ll resort to extreme measures to spurn the advances of a dangerously determined Venetian marquis . . .
Though most of his friends have married off, Gervais, Earl of Huntley, remains bent on eluding the parson’s mousetrap. But his convictions begin to falter when he arrives in Venice and meets his match in the alluring Lady Caro. What began as a hastily concocted lie to save her from the marquis may become a chance for them both to relinquish their fear—and embrace what they can no longer deny . . .
Haunted by her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the solace of her godmother’s palazzo in Venice. But if Caro was hoping to escape the charms of marriage-minded men, she’s come to the wrong place. And she’ll resort to extreme measures to spurn the advances of a dangerously determined Venetian marquis . . .
Though most of his friends have married off, Gervais, Earl of Huntley, remains bent on eluding the parson’s mousetrap. But his convictions begin to falter when he arrives in Venice and meets his match in the alluring Lady Caro. What began as a hastily concocted lie to save her from the marquis may become a chance for them both to relinquish their fear—and embrace what they can no longer deny . . .
300 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
249 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Ella Quinn
53 books2,521 followersUSA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn’s studies and other jobs have always been on the serious side (political science professor and lawyer). Reading historical romances, especially Regencies, were her escape. Eventually her love of historical novels led her to start writing them.
She is married to her wonderful husband of over thirty years. They have a son and two beautiful granddaughters, and a Great Dane named Lilibet. After living in the South Pacific, Central America, North Africa, England and Europe, she and her husband decided to make their dreams come true lived on sailboat for three years. After cruising the Caribbean and North America, she completed a transatlantic crossing from St. Martin to Southern Europe. She's currently living in Germany, happily writing while her husband is back at work, recovering from retirement.
Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Blog ~ Instagram ~ BookBub
She is married to her wonderful husband of over thirty years. They have a son and two beautiful granddaughters, and a Great Dane named Lilibet. After living in the South Pacific, Central America, North Africa, England and Europe, she and her husband decided to make their dreams come true lived on sailboat for three years. After cruising the Caribbean and North America, she completed a transatlantic crossing from St. Martin to Southern Europe. She's currently living in Germany, happily writing while her husband is back at work, recovering from retirement.
Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Blog ~ Instagram ~ BookBub
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
August 18, 2022
Reread mass market paperback August 18 2020
I still love this title! 🥰
…and the games continue!
Lady Caroline Martindale and the rake Huntley! Will they fall in love?
Gervaise, Earl of Huntley, heir to the Marquis of Huntingdon, is a man of infinite patience and strength once having decided that it is Caroline whom he wants as his Countess.
This Marriage Game begins with a marriage of convenience that slowly grows to something more, defying Caro's tragic past. The ravishment and rape of young women by scoundrels is a danger that one doesn't think about. I suspect us readers have been anaesthetized by Jane Austen. This is Caroline's darkest secret and deepest nightmare. A nightmare she constantly relives with fear and loathing.
Fleeing Vemice and the unwanted attentions of the deranged Marchese di Venier,
Caroline and Huntley are thrown together by Huntley's aunt and Caro's godmother, Lady Horatia Laughton in an effort to protect Caroline.
A torrid race through Italy over the alps en route to Nancy via Austria pursued by the wicked Marchese makes for a different turn of events.
However, the strength of Lady Horatia and her finding love in an unexpected place actually entranced me, and nearly eclipsed the romance between Caroline and Gervaise. I did enjoy Horatia and Captain John's repartee and interaction. Theirs is a whirlwind romance, witty and amusing. I found it very satisfying that this wonderful widow found the love and companionship she deserves.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
I still love this title! 🥰
…and the games continue!
Lady Caroline Martindale and the rake Huntley! Will they fall in love?
Gervaise, Earl of Huntley, heir to the Marquis of Huntingdon, is a man of infinite patience and strength once having decided that it is Caroline whom he wants as his Countess.
This Marriage Game begins with a marriage of convenience that slowly grows to something more, defying Caro's tragic past. The ravishment and rape of young women by scoundrels is a danger that one doesn't think about. I suspect us readers have been anaesthetized by Jane Austen. This is Caroline's darkest secret and deepest nightmare. A nightmare she constantly relives with fear and loathing.
Fleeing Vemice and the unwanted attentions of the deranged Marchese di Venier,
Caroline and Huntley are thrown together by Huntley's aunt and Caro's godmother, Lady Horatia Laughton in an effort to protect Caroline.
A torrid race through Italy over the alps en route to Nancy via Austria pursued by the wicked Marchese makes for a different turn of events.
However, the strength of Lady Horatia and her finding love in an unexpected place actually entranced me, and nearly eclipsed the romance between Caroline and Gervaise. I did enjoy Horatia and Captain John's repartee and interaction. Theirs is a whirlwind romance, witty and amusing. I found it very satisfying that this wonderful widow found the love and companionship she deserves.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
August 9, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: The Marriage Game #4
Publication Date: First Published 1/1/14 – new release 8/23/22
Period: Regency Europe
Number of Pages: 301
This was a scrumptiously feel-good book. Yes, there was a villain, and yes, there were exciting coach chases over the alps, but, all-in-all it just felt good. It seems every male and female who met fell in love. While there were several mentioned romances, the two featured ones were: the main one between Gervais (Earl of Huntley) and Lady Caroline (Caro) Martindale; and the secondary one between Lady Horatia and John Whitton, the Earl of Devon.
Lady Caroline left England five years ago to live with her aunt, Lady Horatia, in Italy. She’s spent that time trying to heal after the horrendous events that caused her to leave England. She enjoys her life with her aunt and she adores Italy. Unfortunately, she has become the focus of Duca di Venier, and his attentions are most unwelcome. His family is ultra-powerful in the area and she’s heard some very dark stories about him. Leaving Venice is the only answer – even if it does have to be with her Godmother’s nephew.
All of Gervais’s friends have been bitten by the love bug and married and he’s been pursued by every marriageable lady in England. The only way to escape is to take his Grand Tour and visit his Aunt Horatia for a while. The houseguest he finds there is beautiful, intriguing, and totally uninterested in him. How can that be – all the ladies love him?
I just loved Gervais – he had the most wonderfully generous heart and a protective streak a mile wide. Almost as soon as he saw Lady Caro he was smitten and would do whatever he had to do to protect her. Of course, he couldn’t tell her he intended to marry her – he’ll have to quietly woo her and convince her. However, he has to save her first. Can they escape the Duca before he swoops in to kidnap Caro? Can Gervais convince Caro to stay with him and have a happy marriage?
While Gervais and Caro are careening through the alps, Horatia is trying to lead the Duca on a false trail – where she meets the most enigmatic man. He’s so very handsome, and so very determined to marry her. He intrigues her. He vexes her. He entices her. Oh! My!
I can definitely recommend this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the characters were absolutely wonderful.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: The Marriage Game #4
Publication Date: First Published 1/1/14 – new release 8/23/22
Period: Regency Europe
Number of Pages: 301
This was a scrumptiously feel-good book. Yes, there was a villain, and yes, there were exciting coach chases over the alps, but, all-in-all it just felt good. It seems every male and female who met fell in love. While there were several mentioned romances, the two featured ones were: the main one between Gervais (Earl of Huntley) and Lady Caroline (Caro) Martindale; and the secondary one between Lady Horatia and John Whitton, the Earl of Devon.
Lady Caroline left England five years ago to live with her aunt, Lady Horatia, in Italy. She’s spent that time trying to heal after the horrendous events that caused her to leave England. She enjoys her life with her aunt and she adores Italy. Unfortunately, she has become the focus of Duca di Venier, and his attentions are most unwelcome. His family is ultra-powerful in the area and she’s heard some very dark stories about him. Leaving Venice is the only answer – even if it does have to be with her Godmother’s nephew.
All of Gervais’s friends have been bitten by the love bug and married and he’s been pursued by every marriageable lady in England. The only way to escape is to take his Grand Tour and visit his Aunt Horatia for a while. The houseguest he finds there is beautiful, intriguing, and totally uninterested in him. How can that be – all the ladies love him?
I just loved Gervais – he had the most wonderfully generous heart and a protective streak a mile wide. Almost as soon as he saw Lady Caro he was smitten and would do whatever he had to do to protect her. Of course, he couldn’t tell her he intended to marry her – he’ll have to quietly woo her and convince her. However, he has to save her first. Can they escape the Duca before he swoops in to kidnap Caro? Can Gervais convince Caro to stay with him and have a happy marriage?
While Gervais and Caro are careening through the alps, Horatia is trying to lead the Duca on a false trail – where she meets the most enigmatic man. He’s so very handsome, and so very determined to marry her. He intrigues her. He vexes her. He entices her. Oh! My!
I can definitely recommend this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the characters were absolutely wonderful.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up.
Five years ago a heartbroken Lady Caroline “Caro” Martindale agreed to a betrothal arranged by her father but later realized that she could not go through with the marriage. She met with her fiance and was brutally accosted and raped by the man. Traumatized and shamed, she told her mother of the incident and begged to leave London, her mother agreed and she was sent to stay with her godmother, the widowed Lady Horatia Laughton in Italy. Now Caro has settled into life with Horatia and has no plans to marry or return to England. But the arrival of Horatia’s nephew, Gervais, Earl of Huntley and heir to the Marquis of Huntingdon, turns Caro’s life upside down.
With the marriage of several of his friends, Gervais has decided to escape London and embark on his long overdue Grand Tour, with a stop to visit his Aunt Horatia in Venice. Gervais is stunned by Caro’s beauty and his instant attraction to her, but Caro is an innocent and therefore off limits unless he wants to succumb to the bonds of matrimony, which he doesn’t. Not to mention, Caro has made it quite clear that she is not interested in him or any man. Unfortunately for her, the Marchese di Venier has decided that she will be his and refuses to take no for an answer. His persistence causes Horatia to tell him that Caro and Gervais are betrothed and that they are leaving Venice. A lie that ultimately sees them married. But will that be enough to keep them safe from the Marchese’s obsession?
This story is a re-release of a book I read back in 2014, I can honestly say that I did not notice any difference between that edition and this one. I have mixed feelings about this book, on one hand, there are many things I like and on the other, there are things that bothered me. I loved that the book was set abroad and that there is a secondary romance, but I did not care for Gervais’ single-minded desire to bed Caro, nor the fact that he touched her while she was semi-conscious. I found Caro to be a believable survivor of violence and was happy that she was able to move beyond the pain of her attack and have a loving relationship. And aside from the overwhelming lust that Gervais had for her, I did believe he cared for her and had her best intentions at heart. Overall this was a well-written, emotional story of healing, second chances, and love. This is the fourth book in the series, but it can easily be read as a standalone title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Five years ago a heartbroken Lady Caroline “Caro” Martindale agreed to a betrothal arranged by her father but later realized that she could not go through with the marriage. She met with her fiance and was brutally accosted and raped by the man. Traumatized and shamed, she told her mother of the incident and begged to leave London, her mother agreed and she was sent to stay with her godmother, the widowed Lady Horatia Laughton in Italy. Now Caro has settled into life with Horatia and has no plans to marry or return to England. But the arrival of Horatia’s nephew, Gervais, Earl of Huntley and heir to the Marquis of Huntingdon, turns Caro’s life upside down.
With the marriage of several of his friends, Gervais has decided to escape London and embark on his long overdue Grand Tour, with a stop to visit his Aunt Horatia in Venice. Gervais is stunned by Caro’s beauty and his instant attraction to her, but Caro is an innocent and therefore off limits unless he wants to succumb to the bonds of matrimony, which he doesn’t. Not to mention, Caro has made it quite clear that she is not interested in him or any man. Unfortunately for her, the Marchese di Venier has decided that she will be his and refuses to take no for an answer. His persistence causes Horatia to tell him that Caro and Gervais are betrothed and that they are leaving Venice. A lie that ultimately sees them married. But will that be enough to keep them safe from the Marchese’s obsession?
This story is a re-release of a book I read back in 2014, I can honestly say that I did not notice any difference between that edition and this one. I have mixed feelings about this book, on one hand, there are many things I like and on the other, there are things that bothered me. I loved that the book was set abroad and that there is a secondary romance, but I did not care for Gervais’ single-minded desire to bed Caro, nor the fact that he touched her while she was semi-conscious. I found Caro to be a believable survivor of violence and was happy that she was able to move beyond the pain of her attack and have a loving relationship. And aside from the overwhelming lust that Gervais had for her, I did believe he cared for her and had her best intentions at heart. Overall this was a well-written, emotional story of healing, second chances, and love. This is the fourth book in the series, but it can easily be read as a standalone title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
August 20, 2022
Haunted by her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the solace of Lady Horatia Laughton, her godmother’s palazzo in Venice. But if Caro was hoping to escape the charms of marriage-minded men, she’s come to the wrong place. And she’ll resort to extreme measures to spurn the advances of a dangerously determined Venetian marquis. Though most of his friends have married off, Gervais, Earl of Huntley, remains bent on eluding the parson’s mousetrap. But his convictions begin to falter when he arrives in Venice and meets his match in the alluring Lady Caro. What began as a hastily concocted lie to save her from the marquis may become a chance for them both to relinquish their fear—and embrace what they can no longer deny
The book was first released in 2014. I love this series & we have two happy endings, which is a lovely bonus. I loved both Gervais & Caro & was drawn in from the first page until the last. Gervais is sigh worthy & falls hard & fast for Caro. The chemistry between them sizzles. The characters are well portrayed & have lovely depth. A well paced book with chases & two lovely romances. An engrossing, which I loved
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The book was first released in 2014. I love this series & we have two happy endings, which is a lovely bonus. I loved both Gervais & Caro & was drawn in from the first page until the last. Gervais is sigh worthy & falls hard & fast for Caro. The chemistry between them sizzles. The characters are well portrayed & have lovely depth. A well paced book with chases & two lovely romances. An engrossing, which I loved
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 6, 2022
I did not realize this book is a re-release from 2014. I kept wondering why this story seemed familiar! Nevertheless, I enjoyed rereading this book. Caro is hiding out in Italy living with her godmother. She does not want to marry or have anything to do with men. Gervais arrives to visit his aunt and is attracted to Caro. While trying to protect her from a crazed suitor, he decides that being single may no longer suit him. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington Books for my honest review.
April 26, 2024
The cover is beautiful but I’m not sure it fits the characters in the story. Gervais, Earl of Huntley goes to Venice to avoid the marriage minded mamas. But there he meets the beautiful Lady Caro (Caroline Martindale) who is living with her Godmother. She is the object of unwanted attention of a powerful titled Venetian who has murdered others. In agreement they flee going to journeying to Austria before rendezvousing with the Godmother in France. Along the way they are compromised and quickly marry. Caro didn’t plan to marry as she was raped at 15. The rape is vaguely described and makes her unsuitable for a real marriage. Gervais sets out to woo her. The flip side of the story is a romance for the Godmother as well.
I actually enjoyed the journey, especially the many different foods and variety of chocolate they find along the way. The couples are sweet and you know everything is going to work out well between them. The book seems to be a re-release of a book originally published in 2014. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I actually enjoyed the journey, especially the many different foods and variety of chocolate they find along the way. The couples are sweet and you know everything is going to work out well between them. The book seems to be a re-release of a book originally published in 2014. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2022
Lady Caro has lived in Italy for five years after being traumatized in England. Gervais, Earl of Huntley, is in Italy to visit his aunt and meets Caro. When an Italian marchese becomes obsessed with Caro, Gervais whisked her away on a long journey from Italy to France. In the meantime, his aunt, her godmama, is on her own adventure. Seduced by a captain now an Earl, with the enticement of marriage, she resists marriage thinking she is barren. Each gentleman must prove their ladies perception of their self worth for marriage is wrong. A long book with a pace a little slower than I usually like. Nice plot with two connecting romance stories.
Heat level 4
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Heat level 4
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
July 28, 2022
Lady Caroline is haunted by a past that includes rape. Will she let Garvais into her life and heart?
Haunted by her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the solace of her godmother’s palazzo in Venice. But if Caro was hoping to escape the charms of marriage-minded men, she’s come to the wrong place. And she’ll resort to extreme measures to spurn the advances of a dangerously determined Venetian marquis . . .
Though most of his friends have married off, Gervais, Earl of Huntley, remains bent on eluding the parson’s mousetrap. But his convictions begin to falter when he arrives in Venice and meets his match in the alluring Lady Caro. What began as a hastily concocted lie to save her from the marquis may become a chance for them both to relinquish their fear—and embrace what they can no longer deny
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily. . . .
Haunted by her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the solace of her godmother’s palazzo in Venice. But if Caro was hoping to escape the charms of marriage-minded men, she’s come to the wrong place. And she’ll resort to extreme measures to spurn the advances of a dangerously determined Venetian marquis . . .
Though most of his friends have married off, Gervais, Earl of Huntley, remains bent on eluding the parson’s mousetrap. But his convictions begin to falter when he arrives in Venice and meets his match in the alluring Lady Caro. What began as a hastily concocted lie to save her from the marquis may become a chance for them both to relinquish their fear—and embrace what they can no longer deny
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily. . . .
April 2, 2014
Originally posted on Buried Under Romance...visit to read a recipe. :)
Gervais, Earl of Huntley, plans to marry only when he is coerced into producing an heir for his future marquisate, which is to say, not in a long while. The recent marriages of his friends (fellow heroes of Ella Quinn's previous books) had him wanting to escape England for a while. So, why not tour the Continent and visit his Aunt Horatia in Italy as well?
Upon arriving at Horatia's residence, he sets eyes on Horatia’s goddaughter, the most beautiful woman he had ever met – Lady Caroline Martindale, who is repelled by his touch, but her frosty demeanor only makes him more intrigued by her. While Gervais is ready to shed his bachelor state and court her, Caro simply wants him to go away. Yet, when a powerful, determined suitor (stalker) comes to claim Caro, she and Gervais must embark on a journey together to Paris, en route needing to get married, with Gervais the difficult challenge of convincing his bride to give him a chance.
If you’re in want of a fast-paced book, then look no further. Time in this novel is shaped like a “U,” fast paced in the beginning and end, but slower in the middle to allow for more character interactions. This technique is nicely utilized here, as Caro and Gervais are quickly thrust together with only each other on whom to depend. Gervais’s ploys to melt his Ice Maiden are coupled with his wishes to protect her, and under his care, Caro’s true self slowly emerges. For years, Caro was repulsed by a man’s touch, after being raped by a scoundrel (this is known early on). She repressed herself, lost the joys of life, only to be brought alive by Gervais’s rakish charm and caring heart. Of course, her being a chocoholic and Gervais’s Food Temptation plan also helped. ;-)
The characters, while not overly complex, are a delightful treat in this Regency romance. The most remarkable aspect of Ella Quinn’s writing is her focus on a greater scale of characters, such as the giving the widowed Horatia her own secondary romance, and painting the villain as a kind father, making me wonder if the villain might possibly be redeemed at the end of the book.
In essence, this book feels like one of Heyer’s Regencies, set in a more exotic locale and with a distinctly European flair that suits both its setting and the characters, and enliven those readers who have found Regency England de trop.
Side note: If you’re feeling hungry, you can go look up some of the recipes mentioned in this book, and satisfy your physical hunger as well as your hunger for great reads.
Gervais, Earl of Huntley, plans to marry only when he is coerced into producing an heir for his future marquisate, which is to say, not in a long while. The recent marriages of his friends (fellow heroes of Ella Quinn's previous books) had him wanting to escape England for a while. So, why not tour the Continent and visit his Aunt Horatia in Italy as well?
Upon arriving at Horatia's residence, he sets eyes on Horatia’s goddaughter, the most beautiful woman he had ever met – Lady Caroline Martindale, who is repelled by his touch, but her frosty demeanor only makes him more intrigued by her. While Gervais is ready to shed his bachelor state and court her, Caro simply wants him to go away. Yet, when a powerful, determined suitor (stalker) comes to claim Caro, she and Gervais must embark on a journey together to Paris, en route needing to get married, with Gervais the difficult challenge of convincing his bride to give him a chance.
If you’re in want of a fast-paced book, then look no further. Time in this novel is shaped like a “U,” fast paced in the beginning and end, but slower in the middle to allow for more character interactions. This technique is nicely utilized here, as Caro and Gervais are quickly thrust together with only each other on whom to depend. Gervais’s ploys to melt his Ice Maiden are coupled with his wishes to protect her, and under his care, Caro’s true self slowly emerges. For years, Caro was repulsed by a man’s touch, after being raped by a scoundrel (this is known early on). She repressed herself, lost the joys of life, only to be brought alive by Gervais’s rakish charm and caring heart. Of course, her being a chocoholic and Gervais’s Food Temptation plan also helped. ;-)
The characters, while not overly complex, are a delightful treat in this Regency romance. The most remarkable aspect of Ella Quinn’s writing is her focus on a greater scale of characters, such as the giving the widowed Horatia her own secondary romance, and painting the villain as a kind father, making me wonder if the villain might possibly be redeemed at the end of the book.
In essence, this book feels like one of Heyer’s Regencies, set in a more exotic locale and with a distinctly European flair that suits both its setting and the characters, and enliven those readers who have found Regency England de trop.
Side note: If you’re feeling hungry, you can go look up some of the recipes mentioned in this book, and satisfy your physical hunger as well as your hunger for great reads.
April 1, 2024
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
As a way to escape her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the canals of Venice, and her grandmother's open arms. She wants to escape marriage and fortune hunters, but Venice is full of them, and one marquis is determined she will be his bride. The only person who can help is the handsome Gervais, Earl of Huntley, who wants to marry just as much as Caro does. But as they try to escape the marquis' clutches, the sparks fly.
I really disliked this book. I mean, I can normally devour a book like this in a day, and it took me quite a few sittings to get through Desiring Lady Caro. The main characters were both lacklustre, and the plot line was ridiculous. There were so many conflicting plot lines, and characters that I ended up not caring about any of them, and just wanting to get to the end. Such a disappointing read.
As a way to escape her past, Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for the canals of Venice, and her grandmother's open arms. She wants to escape marriage and fortune hunters, but Venice is full of them, and one marquis is determined she will be his bride. The only person who can help is the handsome Gervais, Earl of Huntley, who wants to marry just as much as Caro does. But as they try to escape the marquis' clutches, the sparks fly.
I really disliked this book. I mean, I can normally devour a book like this in a day, and it took me quite a few sittings to get through Desiring Lady Caro. The main characters were both lacklustre, and the plot line was ridiculous. There were so many conflicting plot lines, and characters that I ended up not caring about any of them, and just wanting to get to the end. Such a disappointing read.
August 24, 2022
Lady Caroline do not want to marry and Gervaise Earl of Huntley is running from rabid ton mother hunting for a decent candidate for their daughters
They agree to take one agreement and fall in love
She has a painful episode in her past
Nice sweet bodice ripper romance.
Cover not matches the book
Side trope enjoyable
3 stars.
Well done
Thanks NetGalley for the arc
They agree to take one agreement and fall in love
She has a painful episode in her past
Nice sweet bodice ripper romance.
Cover not matches the book
Side trope enjoyable
3 stars.
Well done
Thanks NetGalley for the arc
March 12, 2014
Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
It's a Marriage Game and no one is ever quite ready for it. Ella Quinn proves that if you are willing to open your heart, when the right person comes along, life can be wonderful.
Desiring Lady Caro is book four in Ms Quinn's Marriage Game Series and it's as far from The Temptation of Lady Serena (Book 3, see my review HERE) as you can imagine. There is no idiotface.. this time there is a sweet wonderful man who is strength personified..
Lady Caroline Martindale was raped at the age of 17 and fearing the repercussions, fled to Europe (wise choice as the solution to rape was to marry the woman to the man who raped her). For five years she has been frozen in time in sexual growth. Freezing out all men, a true ice queen. Never daring to trust one. But when her godmother's nephew comes to visit, Caro is more than a little confused. A frisson of an attraction is there. But Caro is resolute, until another man takes the choices out of her hands. It's flee Venice with the Earl of Huntley or suffer the attentions of another slimeball. Caro takes the only choice she really has..
Gervais, Earl of Huntley has watched his friends fall victim to the Marriage Trap over and over. They are all remarkably happy, which totally confuses him. Fleeing to the continent to escape the matchmaking mama's, Gervais is quite content. Until he meets his aunt's goddaughter and stumbles in his opinion. Determined to court her but not aware of why she hates men, Gervais takes his time. Until he is forced to act as her betrothed and get her out of Venice. Which hinders and helps his plans.
It only gets worse when the couple is caught by an English gossip and they pretty much have to marry. Gervais is willing, he is actually ready. While he regrets the why of their marriage he doesn't regret the marriage. Caro on the other hand is petrified. But Gervais steady courtship does wonders for her self esteem and her desires grow.
Throughout the book these two are chased by a lunatic, there really is no other word for him, and his presence is a constant tug at their relationship. Forcing them to stick together and rely on each other. It's hard to explain the impact this book had on me. I can only say that Ms Quinn once again writes a brilliant book. Focusing not only on the romance but of the realities of life for women of their station.
Added to Caro and Gervais' story is the story of Gervais' aunt (older by four years). A widow who herself has been cheated out of a rich and full life by the men who claim to love her. Finding herself with a suitor who truly loves her, leaves her baffled and confused.
While the two stories could have been overkill, instead they work together wonderfully. Each woman has to find herself and learn to trust a man. And each man has to commit to his love in actions well before he ever gets a chance to say the words.
A beautiful story taking place across Europe, adding a rich tapestry for these characters. Thank you Ms Quinn for yet another wonderful book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Desiring Lady Caro, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 3, 2014
It's a Marriage Game and no one is ever quite ready for it. Ella Quinn proves that if you are willing to open your heart, when the right person comes along, life can be wonderful.
Desiring Lady Caro is book four in Ms Quinn's Marriage Game Series and it's as far from The Temptation of Lady Serena (Book 3, see my review HERE) as you can imagine. There is no idiotface.. this time there is a sweet wonderful man who is strength personified..
Lady Caroline Martindale was raped at the age of 17 and fearing the repercussions, fled to Europe (wise choice as the solution to rape was to marry the woman to the man who raped her). For five years she has been frozen in time in sexual growth. Freezing out all men, a true ice queen. Never daring to trust one. But when her godmother's nephew comes to visit, Caro is more than a little confused. A frisson of an attraction is there. But Caro is resolute, until another man takes the choices out of her hands. It's flee Venice with the Earl of Huntley or suffer the attentions of another slimeball. Caro takes the only choice she really has..
Gervais, Earl of Huntley has watched his friends fall victim to the Marriage Trap over and over. They are all remarkably happy, which totally confuses him. Fleeing to the continent to escape the matchmaking mama's, Gervais is quite content. Until he meets his aunt's goddaughter and stumbles in his opinion. Determined to court her but not aware of why she hates men, Gervais takes his time. Until he is forced to act as her betrothed and get her out of Venice. Which hinders and helps his plans.
It only gets worse when the couple is caught by an English gossip and they pretty much have to marry. Gervais is willing, he is actually ready. While he regrets the why of their marriage he doesn't regret the marriage. Caro on the other hand is petrified. But Gervais steady courtship does wonders for her self esteem and her desires grow.
Throughout the book these two are chased by a lunatic, there really is no other word for him, and his presence is a constant tug at their relationship. Forcing them to stick together and rely on each other. It's hard to explain the impact this book had on me. I can only say that Ms Quinn once again writes a brilliant book. Focusing not only on the romance but of the realities of life for women of their station.
Added to Caro and Gervais' story is the story of Gervais' aunt (older by four years). A widow who herself has been cheated out of a rich and full life by the men who claim to love her. Finding herself with a suitor who truly loves her, leaves her baffled and confused.
While the two stories could have been overkill, instead they work together wonderfully. Each woman has to find herself and learn to trust a man. And each man has to commit to his love in actions well before he ever gets a chance to say the words.
A beautiful story taking place across Europe, adding a rich tapestry for these characters. Thank you Ms Quinn for yet another wonderful book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Desiring Lady Caro, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 3, 2014
March 24, 2014
Lord Huntley left England for a much needed trip across the continent. He slowly makes his way across Europe with his final destination his aunt’s house in Venice. Not anticipating a young lady in the home, though he is pleasantly surprised to meet Lady Caroline. When he discovers that she is a connection of his Aunt’s his interest in her does not change. Lady Caroline Martindale has been living in Venice these past five years in order to escape a traumatic episode in her native England. Lady Caroline has developed a cool exterior to keep men away. As she spends more time with Lord Huntley she discovers that being so cool is much harder than she thought.
Even though Lady Caro is wary of men, that doesn’t mean that they ignore her. One man has even begun to take his interest in her a little too far. In order to keep Lady Caroline safe, Lord Huntley takes her away from Venice in a trip north. In order for them to travel together they pose as a married couple. What happens when they are recognized be several people along the way; word of their marriage gets out and things become even more complicated for them! Their adventure through Italy forces them to spend time together and they quickly realize that what is developing between them is love.
Desiring Lady Caro was an enjoyment to read! I absolutely fell in love with Lady Caro right away. There is just something compelling about her. She appears on the outside to be a very strong and capable person, even a little cold. But when you look beneath she is really quite vulnerable because of what happened to her. Being with Gervais pushes her boundaries and she slowly starts morphing into the woman she was meant to be. Gervais takes his time with her and really comes to care for her. He is such a sweetheart! While Gervais is classically handsome and quite a catch, it is his behavior and how he cares for Lady Caro that drew me to him. Desiring Lady Caro is well written and will keep the reader thoroughly engaged from start to finish. There is the side story of that features Lady Horatia , Gervais’ Aunt and her chance at love! Ella Quinn is one of my favorite authors and this book does not disappoint!
Gervais
Even though Lady Caro is wary of men, that doesn’t mean that they ignore her. One man has even begun to take his interest in her a little too far. In order to keep Lady Caroline safe, Lord Huntley takes her away from Venice in a trip north. In order for them to travel together they pose as a married couple. What happens when they are recognized be several people along the way; word of their marriage gets out and things become even more complicated for them! Their adventure through Italy forces them to spend time together and they quickly realize that what is developing between them is love.
Desiring Lady Caro was an enjoyment to read! I absolutely fell in love with Lady Caro right away. There is just something compelling about her. She appears on the outside to be a very strong and capable person, even a little cold. But when you look beneath she is really quite vulnerable because of what happened to her. Being with Gervais pushes her boundaries and she slowly starts morphing into the woman she was meant to be. Gervais takes his time with her and really comes to care for her. He is such a sweetheart! While Gervais is classically handsome and quite a catch, it is his behavior and how he cares for Lady Caro that drew me to him. Desiring Lady Caro is well written and will keep the reader thoroughly engaged from start to finish. There is the side story of that features Lady Horatia , Gervais’ Aunt and her chance at love! Ella Quinn is one of my favorite authors and this book does not disappoint!
Gervais
April 1, 2022
Holy miscommunication batman. This book was high key a mess. So the story is essentially that Huntley goes to Venice, meets Caro, who is living with his aunt at her house, a creepy powerful man wants Caro for himself, and they all go travelling across Europe to somewhere in France. Caro was sexually assaulted as a teenager (and she is only 22 now!) and does not like having men around/being touched, and reasonably, having sex is terrifying to her. There was a "My trauma is fixed by a man making love to me" storyline, which can go either way for me, and this one felt very weird.
We also randomly had a number of other storylines (including the creep) and it made it confusing imo. Especially the aunt's storyline? I literally do not think there was a single point that it made sense. And this now brings us to the worst miscommunication trope I may have ever seen in my entire life. And it also kind of came out of nowhere? Like having a creepy man after you is not enough conflict, they also had to have bland miscommunication? I don't love miscommunication generally, but if done well you can really feel the yearning, and this one did not hit the mark.
One other note is that at one point I'm fairly certain they were having penetrative sex, and he also was giving her oral?? I was very confused--that could have been my b, but also a lot of the sex scenes felt like... wait they did what? in like a logistical way, not a kinky way
However, there was a prolonged, lovely and amazing sickbed scene(s) so two stars for that!
We also randomly had a number of other storylines (including the creep) and it made it confusing imo. Especially the aunt's storyline? I literally do not think there was a single point that it made sense. And this now brings us to the worst miscommunication trope I may have ever seen in my entire life. And it also kind of came out of nowhere? Like having a creepy man after you is not enough conflict, they also had to have bland miscommunication? I don't love miscommunication generally, but if done well you can really feel the yearning, and this one did not hit the mark.
One other note is that at one point I'm fairly certain they were having penetrative sex, and he also was giving her oral?? I was very confused--that could have been my b, but also a lot of the sex scenes felt like... wait they did what? in like a logistical way, not a kinky way
However, there was a prolonged, lovely and amazing sickbed scene(s) so two stars for that!
August 24, 2022
Lady Caroline do not want to marry and Gervaise Earl of Huntley is running from rabid ton mother hunting for a decent candidate for their daughters
They agree to take one agreement and fall in love
She has a painful episode in her past
Nice sweet bodice ripper romance.
Cover not matches the book
Side trope enjoyable
3 stars.
Well done
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC
They agree to take one agreement and fall in love
She has a painful episode in her past
Nice sweet bodice ripper romance.
Cover not matches the book
Side trope enjoyable
3 stars.
Well done
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC
April 3, 2014
Desiring Lady Caro the newest book in the Marriage Games series by Ella Quinn and it can be read as a stand alone or as part of the series. I loved this book I loved Gervais, The Earl of Huntley. Lady Caroline is a sweet and loveable woman who don't seem to see her own beauty. This book takes you on a journey through Europe from Inn to Inn escaping the clutches of an evil Italian marchese, who will stop at nothing to have Caro as his. I enjoyed reading this book it's always fun to read about a hero who wants nothing to do with marriage meet the one woman who makes him change his mind.
Five years ago Lady Caroline Martindale fled life in England after a reputation damaging event. An event that changed her from the bubbly debutant to what the Italian men deemed the Ice Princess. Caro has decided she will never get married happy with her life with her Godmother Lady Horatia Laughton, a widow also content in her unmarried status. Lady Caro with her aloof and out of reach demeanor makes her the object of many men's desire.
The Earl of Huntley decides to escape the marriage market of London for a tour of the continent when he reaches Italy he is to stay with his aunt. He arrives to find a beautiful surprise there. Huntley is captivated by this woman who his Aunt Horatia has taken her under her wing. Huntley is surprised that there is so much more to this distant Caro then just a beautiful socialite. She takes time to visit an orphanage to read to the children. But something is bugging Huntley, the Marchese di Venier is paying Caro an unnatural amount of attention, attention that seems unwanted by Caro. Di Venier warns off Huntley stating that Lady Caro is already his. Huntley interest is piqued and looks in to Di Venier past and finds some pretty horrible things, and he has a feeling that Di Venier is up to something. He urges Caro and Horatia to leave.
Leaving Venice in the early morning to escape notice, leaving Horatia to follow later. Which is a good thing because Di Venier's Grandfather the Duke di Venier shows up at Horatia's house asking to arrange a marriage between his grandson and Lady Caro. But she informs him that Huntley and Lady Caro have been engaged for years and have left together for her lake house. Di Venier is furious at this and tracks down Huntley and Caro to an Inn when he walks in he see them kissing. Huntley and Caro are fully aware of the marchese following them and stage it to where it looks like they have just gotten married, unfortunately one of the biggest gossips on the planet also walks in looking for Huntley's cousin, a bishop who was also traveling, and over hears the announcement that they were married. With that announcement made Bishop Everard Wingate has no choice but to marry them for real.
Lady Caro is troubled with this she likes Huntley but she can not stand to be touched by a man. She reveals to him before they exchange their vows what he has guessed since the beginning, she was raped by her intended when she informed him she didn't want to marry him after all, he forced himself on her in hope to force her hand and marry him, luckily Caro's mother was wise and didn't let that happen she moved Caro away where he couldn't get to her. Huntley already half in love with Caro doesn't care, he wants to find the bastard that did it and beat the ever loving crap out of him. Huntley is determined for Caro to fall in love with him. He is the sweetest thing with his seduction, each Inn they visit he coordinates with the chef so that they can taste the cuisine for that area, and always with a chocolate dessert, Caro's weakness.
Throughout the journey and trying to lose the Marchese Di Venier Lady Caro grows ill. She gets so ill they have to stay at one Inn for weeks until she gets better. Huntley takes care of her himself, never leaving her bedside. After that Caro has grown use to Huntley and realizes that she can move on.
This wonderful story has a secondary plot following Aunt Horatia, which is equally delightful as the main story. A very highly recommended book in my opinion. Ella Quinn captivates and delights us with this journey of Huntley and Caro and with Horatia and John.
April 15, 2014
...and the games continue!
This time it's Lady Caroline Martindale and the rake Huntley who fall into true love.
Gervaise, Earl of Huntley, heir to the Marquis of Huntingdon, is a man of infinite patience and strength once having decided that it is Caroline whom he wants as his Countess.
This Marriage Game begins with a marriage of convenience that slowly grows to something more, defying Caro's tragic past. The ravishment and rape of young women by scoundrels is a danger that one doesn't think about. I suspect us readers have been anaesthetized by Jane Austen. This is Caroline's darkest secret and deepest nightmare. A nightmare she constantly relives with fear and loathing.
Fleeing Vemice and the unwanted attentions of the deranged Marchese di Venier,
Caroline and Huntley are thrown together by Huntley's aunt and Caro's godmother, Lady Horatia Laughton in an effort to protect Caroline. Lady Horatia will leave Venice duplicately and meet them in Nancy, France. Nearly caught travelling together by gossips, Huntley fortuitously runs into his cousin, the Reverend Bishop Everard Wingate who marries Caroline and Huntley in a trice. Attracted to Caro, Huntley initially found himself, wondering what it was that drew him. Perhaps it was the vulnerability he spied beneath the prickly exterior? Huntley finds himself falling in love with her. He learns her secret. Wooing her is like trying to tame a startled fawn. It takes weeks with Huntley doing all that he can, including using his greatest weapon, his ability to discover all sorts of chocolate treats, to Caroline's unending delight. She, like me is totally enamoured by all things 'chocolat.'
Mind you as Huntley seduces her with careful food delights, I too am well on the way to swooning from the delicacies he sets before the fair and timid Caroline.
I am much taken by the couple's servants, Huntley's valet Maufe, and Caro's once nursemaid and now dresser, Nugent. Both are strong secondary characters and play their parts to perfection in the growing trust and love that develops between Caro and Huntley, as long time retainers often do.
A torrid race through Italy over the alps en route to Nancy via Austria pursued by the wicked Marchese makes for a different turn of events. I must admit, I know that Caroline has been abused and suffers and I appreciate Gervaise's gentle wooing, his bringing her back from horror to wonder at intimacy. For me however, the strength of Lady Horatia and her finding love in an unexpected place actually entranced me, and nearly eclipsed the romance between Caroline and Gervaise. I did enjoy Horatia and Captain John's repartee and interaction. Theirs is a whirlwind romance, witty and amusing. I found it very satisfying that this wonderful widow found the love and companionship she deserves.
A NetGalley ARC
This time it's Lady Caroline Martindale and the rake Huntley who fall into true love.
Gervaise, Earl of Huntley, heir to the Marquis of Huntingdon, is a man of infinite patience and strength once having decided that it is Caroline whom he wants as his Countess.
This Marriage Game begins with a marriage of convenience that slowly grows to something more, defying Caro's tragic past. The ravishment and rape of young women by scoundrels is a danger that one doesn't think about. I suspect us readers have been anaesthetized by Jane Austen. This is Caroline's darkest secret and deepest nightmare. A nightmare she constantly relives with fear and loathing.
Fleeing Vemice and the unwanted attentions of the deranged Marchese di Venier,
Caroline and Huntley are thrown together by Huntley's aunt and Caro's godmother, Lady Horatia Laughton in an effort to protect Caroline. Lady Horatia will leave Venice duplicately and meet them in Nancy, France. Nearly caught travelling together by gossips, Huntley fortuitously runs into his cousin, the Reverend Bishop Everard Wingate who marries Caroline and Huntley in a trice. Attracted to Caro, Huntley initially found himself, wondering what it was that drew him. Perhaps it was the vulnerability he spied beneath the prickly exterior? Huntley finds himself falling in love with her. He learns her secret. Wooing her is like trying to tame a startled fawn. It takes weeks with Huntley doing all that he can, including using his greatest weapon, his ability to discover all sorts of chocolate treats, to Caroline's unending delight. She, like me is totally enamoured by all things 'chocolat.'
Mind you as Huntley seduces her with careful food delights, I too am well on the way to swooning from the delicacies he sets before the fair and timid Caroline.
I am much taken by the couple's servants, Huntley's valet Maufe, and Caro's once nursemaid and now dresser, Nugent. Both are strong secondary characters and play their parts to perfection in the growing trust and love that develops between Caro and Huntley, as long time retainers often do.
A torrid race through Italy over the alps en route to Nancy via Austria pursued by the wicked Marchese makes for a different turn of events. I must admit, I know that Caroline has been abused and suffers and I appreciate Gervaise's gentle wooing, his bringing her back from horror to wonder at intimacy. For me however, the strength of Lady Horatia and her finding love in an unexpected place actually entranced me, and nearly eclipsed the romance between Caroline and Gervaise. I did enjoy Horatia and Captain John's repartee and interaction. Theirs is a whirlwind romance, witty and amusing. I found it very satisfying that this wonderful widow found the love and companionship she deserves.
A NetGalley ARC
March 31, 2014
4 1/2 Stars.
Gervais, Earl of Huntley clearly wants to stay as far away as he can from the marriage trap that has begun to plague all of his friends, insofar as so plan a trip of the continent as evasion. While on his quest he stops to visit with his dear Aunt Horatia in Venice and comes face to face with the intriguing Lady Caroline Martindale, who has been in Venice for five years now after an terrible incident in England prompts her to flee for her well-being.
Caro has been in Venice for five years now and has cemented her position as spinster extraordinaire and companion to her Godmother, the indomitable Lady Horatia, who's personality and antics throughout are a joy. When Gervais comes to visit, Caro is faced with feelings she is not at all in a position to come to terms with, and yet the handsome Earl of Huntley is never far from her thoughts and the cool and aloof exterior she has cultivated over the years is beginning to melt with her time spent with Gervais.
When a rich but undesirable local takes indecent and unusual attentions towards Lady Caro, she and Huntley leave Venice and pose as a married couple to try to save her reputation. When Caro and Gervais are confronted by acquaintances, the time for posing as a married couple must come to an end, and the two must marry. Gervais' feelings have bloomed so, that he finally feels hope for his marriage to Caro being a happy one, and little by little he breaks through the wall of ice that Caro has so perfectly constructed. Desire and passion overcome the pair, making their union all the sweeter, but they are still being stalked by the deranged man they attempted to escape and he is making everything more difficult for the pair.
DESIRING LADY CARO by Ella Quinn is yet another fabulous read in her Marriage Game series. Ms. Quinn expertly sets out to engage the reader with her mystery, the passion and the eloquent story. Gervais and Caro are wonderful characters who play off each other so well. By Huntley being so amazingly patient with Caro, he cements his place in her heart as well as the reader's. Caro's enlightening of the passion long held at bay makes DESIRING LADY CARO another reason I enjoyed this book so. Now that I have found Ella Quinn, I simply cannot wait for subsequent novels for this ever so talented writer.
Gervais, Earl of Huntley clearly wants to stay as far away as he can from the marriage trap that has begun to plague all of his friends, insofar as so plan a trip of the continent as evasion. While on his quest he stops to visit with his dear Aunt Horatia in Venice and comes face to face with the intriguing Lady Caroline Martindale, who has been in Venice for five years now after an terrible incident in England prompts her to flee for her well-being.
Caro has been in Venice for five years now and has cemented her position as spinster extraordinaire and companion to her Godmother, the indomitable Lady Horatia, who's personality and antics throughout are a joy. When Gervais comes to visit, Caro is faced with feelings she is not at all in a position to come to terms with, and yet the handsome Earl of Huntley is never far from her thoughts and the cool and aloof exterior she has cultivated over the years is beginning to melt with her time spent with Gervais.
When a rich but undesirable local takes indecent and unusual attentions towards Lady Caro, she and Huntley leave Venice and pose as a married couple to try to save her reputation. When Caro and Gervais are confronted by acquaintances, the time for posing as a married couple must come to an end, and the two must marry. Gervais' feelings have bloomed so, that he finally feels hope for his marriage to Caro being a happy one, and little by little he breaks through the wall of ice that Caro has so perfectly constructed. Desire and passion overcome the pair, making their union all the sweeter, but they are still being stalked by the deranged man they attempted to escape and he is making everything more difficult for the pair.
DESIRING LADY CARO by Ella Quinn is yet another fabulous read in her Marriage Game series. Ms. Quinn expertly sets out to engage the reader with her mystery, the passion and the eloquent story. Gervais and Caro are wonderful characters who play off each other so well. By Huntley being so amazingly patient with Caro, he cements his place in her heart as well as the reader's. Caro's enlightening of the passion long held at bay makes DESIRING LADY CARO another reason I enjoyed this book so. Now that I have found Ella Quinn, I simply cannot wait for subsequent novels for this ever so talented writer.
April 17, 2014
DESIRING LADY CARO by Ella Quinn is a deliciously wicked Regency Historical Romance set in 1816 London, Venice and other parts of France. #4 in "The Marriage Mart" series, but can be read as a stand alone. See, THE SEDUCTION OF LADY PHOEBE, THE SECRET LIFE OF ANNA MARCH, and THE TEMPTATION OF LADY SERENA.
Fast paced from beginning to end. A spicy Regency romance. Meet, Lady Caroline Martindale (Caro), haunted by her past and Gervais, Earl of Huntley. With danger on very turn, secrets, passion,adventure, second chances and romance in the air, you do not want to miss this enticing, delicious Regency Romance.
After years in Venice, Caro is on the run from an influential,determined, Venetian man, who is actually a stalker, and wants her at all cost. Gervais,who is visiting his Aunt Horatia, just so happens to be Caro's Godmamma, is determined to keep her safe, even if he has to marry her himself. So off they go against Italy,on the run from Caro's stalker.
Caro, aka,the Ice Maiden, has a harsh past, she had a tragic event happen when she was younger, because of a scoundrel who she refused, years earlier.
Gervais, is or was determined not to marry until he needs an heir.
While, emotional at times, it has witty moments also. Well developed characters which are engaging as well as realistic. The storyline is intriguing. The secondary characters are just as engaging. A couple of them find their HEA also, including none, other, than Aunt Horatia.
Can a marriage of convenience turn into the love of a lifetime? You must read DESIRING LADY CARO to find out the answer. You will not regret your choice.
Gervais, is such a kind, considerate, and strong hero. Very careful of Caro's feeling about her past and their future, he learns early on what her past involves. Caro is repressed, but soon comes out of her repression, how could she not with a hero such as Gervais.
Well written with vivid descriptions of the setting. Well done, Ms. Quinn! I have enjoyed this whole series, and look forward to more soon. A must read for anyone who enjoys Regency Romance readers who enjoy London, Venice, and Italy. A must read!
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVEIWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING---------------------
Fast paced from beginning to end. A spicy Regency romance. Meet, Lady Caroline Martindale (Caro), haunted by her past and Gervais, Earl of Huntley. With danger on very turn, secrets, passion,adventure, second chances and romance in the air, you do not want to miss this enticing, delicious Regency Romance.
After years in Venice, Caro is on the run from an influential,determined, Venetian man, who is actually a stalker, and wants her at all cost. Gervais,who is visiting his Aunt Horatia, just so happens to be Caro's Godmamma, is determined to keep her safe, even if he has to marry her himself. So off they go against Italy,on the run from Caro's stalker.
Caro, aka,the Ice Maiden, has a harsh past, she had a tragic event happen when she was younger, because of a scoundrel who she refused, years earlier.
Gervais, is or was determined not to marry until he needs an heir.
While, emotional at times, it has witty moments also. Well developed characters which are engaging as well as realistic. The storyline is intriguing. The secondary characters are just as engaging. A couple of them find their HEA also, including none, other, than Aunt Horatia.
Can a marriage of convenience turn into the love of a lifetime? You must read DESIRING LADY CARO to find out the answer. You will not regret your choice.
Gervais, is such a kind, considerate, and strong hero. Very careful of Caro's feeling about her past and their future, he learns early on what her past involves. Caro is repressed, but soon comes out of her repression, how could she not with a hero such as Gervais.
Well written with vivid descriptions of the setting. Well done, Ms. Quinn! I have enjoyed this whole series, and look forward to more soon. A must read for anyone who enjoys Regency Romance readers who enjoy London, Venice, and Italy. A must read!
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVEIWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING---------------------
April 24, 2014
.
I can't imagine why I have given up reading historical romance, I grew up reading it and have loved them all. It's clean, no explicit raw sex scenes yet more alluring to the readers. I used to daydream as a little girl, being held prisoner in one of the turrets in a castle, waiting for my handsome prince come rescue me and ride into the sunset. ;)
Forced to leave England because of a devastating dark past enforced on her, Lady Caro fled to Venice ten years ago and stayed with her Godmother, Lady Horatia, to keep a low profile. Much to her dismay, her extra ordinary beauty caught a lot of men's attention especially that of a venetian marquis, Antonio, heir to a dukedom. Evil, villainous, so enthralled with Lady Caro's beauty, he will stop at nothing in forcing his ardor and bent on kidnapping her to make her his.
Gervais, Earl of Huntley, on the last stage of his grand tour, visited his aunt, Lady Horatia and stayed in her palazzo where he met the alluring Lady Caro. Intrigued by her determined avoidance of men and mesmerized by her natural beauty, he escorted them around and many times came in her rescue from Antonio's unwanted advances.
Following a series of events and threats of Antonio in the wing, a marriage proposal for Lady Caro from the Venetian Duke for his grandson Antonio, Lady Horatia was forced to concoct a lie and told the duke Lady Caro is already betrothed to the Earl of Huntley. Together, Gervais, Lady Caro and Horatia, devised a plan to leave Venice and go to Paris to escape from evil attack of Antonio, who've been known to have murdered women who've spurned in the past.
So Gervais and Lady Caro set out for their long journey to France and there begins the adventure, the thrill of the chase and the budding romance and attraction between them. Combined with sweet romance and the danger of Antonio's wrath, who's been relentlessly pursuing them, this is one thrilling and exciting read you don't want to miss. I didn't really realize how much I've missed reading HR until I read this, I know I'm going to be reading a lot more of it and the rest of the Marriage Game series.
** arc was provided by HetGalley **
I can't imagine why I have given up reading historical romance, I grew up reading it and have loved them all. It's clean, no explicit raw sex scenes yet more alluring to the readers. I used to daydream as a little girl, being held prisoner in one of the turrets in a castle, waiting for my handsome prince come rescue me and ride into the sunset. ;)
Forced to leave England because of a devastating dark past enforced on her, Lady Caro fled to Venice ten years ago and stayed with her Godmother, Lady Horatia, to keep a low profile. Much to her dismay, her extra ordinary beauty caught a lot of men's attention especially that of a venetian marquis, Antonio, heir to a dukedom. Evil, villainous, so enthralled with Lady Caro's beauty, he will stop at nothing in forcing his ardor and bent on kidnapping her to make her his.
Gervais, Earl of Huntley, on the last stage of his grand tour, visited his aunt, Lady Horatia and stayed in her palazzo where he met the alluring Lady Caro. Intrigued by her determined avoidance of men and mesmerized by her natural beauty, he escorted them around and many times came in her rescue from Antonio's unwanted advances.
Following a series of events and threats of Antonio in the wing, a marriage proposal for Lady Caro from the Venetian Duke for his grandson Antonio, Lady Horatia was forced to concoct a lie and told the duke Lady Caro is already betrothed to the Earl of Huntley. Together, Gervais, Lady Caro and Horatia, devised a plan to leave Venice and go to Paris to escape from evil attack of Antonio, who've been known to have murdered women who've spurned in the past.
So Gervais and Lady Caro set out for their long journey to France and there begins the adventure, the thrill of the chase and the budding romance and attraction between them. Combined with sweet romance and the danger of Antonio's wrath, who's been relentlessly pursuing them, this is one thrilling and exciting read you don't want to miss. I didn't really realize how much I've missed reading HR until I read this, I know I'm going to be reading a lot more of it and the rest of the Marriage Game series.
** arc was provided by HetGalley **
July 29, 2016
Originally reviewed for: Historical Romance Lover blog
This is book 4 in the Marriage Game series.
Gervais, the Earl of Huntley, is not ready to fall into the parson's mousetrap that all of his friends seem to be falling into. He flees England for a tour of Europe. He ends his tour in Venice to have a stay with his Aunt, Lady Horatia.
Lady Caroline Martindale has fled England and has spent the last several years living with her godmother. When Huntley arrives at Lady Horatia's home, Caroline is not prepared to be in such close proximity to a man and does everything in her power to stay away from him.
Unfortunately, Caroline has an unwanted suitor. Caroline, Huntley and Horatia are forced to flee. What will Caroline do when she is forced to travel alone with Huntley?
Ella Quinn has not gotten great reviews from me in the past. I've felt that her writing lacked some of the polish that a lot of my current favorites have. Having said that, I think that this novel shows growth in her writing. The beginning of the novel had me doubting the fact that I picked up another one of her books, but the second half redeemed it.
I've always enjoyed the story lines of Quinn's novels and this was no exception. We've met Huntley in previous novels and I always enjoy when those secondary characters I love get their own story. He figures out early on why Caroline doesn't like men and does everything in his power to not be like the other men she has encountered. Huntley is one of those men you hope to meet in real life!!
Caroline has basically decided that she will never marry after the incident in England and is amazed by the way that Huntley treats her. She is afraid to let down her guard, thinking that as soon as she does Huntley's true colors will come out. Huntley is the perfect match for her and seeing their romance blossom was sheer pleasure.
Thanks go to Kensington Books via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
This is book 4 in the Marriage Game series.
Gervais, the Earl of Huntley, is not ready to fall into the parson's mousetrap that all of his friends seem to be falling into. He flees England for a tour of Europe. He ends his tour in Venice to have a stay with his Aunt, Lady Horatia.
Lady Caroline Martindale has fled England and has spent the last several years living with her godmother. When Huntley arrives at Lady Horatia's home, Caroline is not prepared to be in such close proximity to a man and does everything in her power to stay away from him.
Unfortunately, Caroline has an unwanted suitor. Caroline, Huntley and Horatia are forced to flee. What will Caroline do when she is forced to travel alone with Huntley?
Ella Quinn has not gotten great reviews from me in the past. I've felt that her writing lacked some of the polish that a lot of my current favorites have. Having said that, I think that this novel shows growth in her writing. The beginning of the novel had me doubting the fact that I picked up another one of her books, but the second half redeemed it.
I've always enjoyed the story lines of Quinn's novels and this was no exception. We've met Huntley in previous novels and I always enjoy when those secondary characters I love get their own story. He figures out early on why Caroline doesn't like men and does everything in his power to not be like the other men she has encountered. Huntley is one of those men you hope to meet in real life!!
Caroline has basically decided that she will never marry after the incident in England and is amazed by the way that Huntley treats her. She is afraid to let down her guard, thinking that as soon as she does Huntley's true colors will come out. Huntley is the perfect match for her and seeing their romance blossom was sheer pleasure.
Thanks go to Kensington Books via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
July 6, 2025
Gervais, Earl of Huntley, heir to the Marquis of Huntington, He is 33 and fleeing the marriage minded ladies of the ton. He is charming and is not used to having to pursue women, but finds himself drawn to Lady Caro. Gervais has always been a champion for the underdog.
Lady Caroline Martindale, oldest daughter of the Marquis of Bradhurst, has had a trauma that forced her to flee to the continent to stay with her godmother, Gervais’s aunt, Lady Horatia. She wants nothing to do with men and is convinced she will never marry and have children.
Lady Caro is being pursued by the Marchese di Venier and she has told him repeatedly she is not interested and to leave her alone. He is a spoiled, mean little man that thinks he is just everything any woman would want and sends his grandfather, the Duca di Venier to ask for Caro’s hand. This leads to Gervais and Caro departing in a hurry. As they race from Venice to France they pose as betrothed and are soon forced to marry to save their reputations. Caro’s love of chocolate is a charming thread throughout the story and keeps me smiling. With Gervais, Ms. Quinn has written a character that is kind, generous, understanding, protective and patient, with a delightful sense of humor. The trauma Caro goes through is handled with grace and gentle compassion. The journey is filled with lots of humor, good food, and bumpy roads. The secondary relationships are enchanting and keep things hopping! Ms. Quinn continues to bring us brilliant conversations and entertaining stories. She is on my list of authors to watch.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Lady Caroline Martindale, oldest daughter of the Marquis of Bradhurst, has had a trauma that forced her to flee to the continent to stay with her godmother, Gervais’s aunt, Lady Horatia. She wants nothing to do with men and is convinced she will never marry and have children.
Lady Caro is being pursued by the Marchese di Venier and she has told him repeatedly she is not interested and to leave her alone. He is a spoiled, mean little man that thinks he is just everything any woman would want and sends his grandfather, the Duca di Venier to ask for Caro’s hand. This leads to Gervais and Caro departing in a hurry. As they race from Venice to France they pose as betrothed and are soon forced to marry to save their reputations. Caro’s love of chocolate is a charming thread throughout the story and keeps me smiling. With Gervais, Ms. Quinn has written a character that is kind, generous, understanding, protective and patient, with a delightful sense of humor. The trauma Caro goes through is handled with grace and gentle compassion. The journey is filled with lots of humor, good food, and bumpy roads. The secondary relationships are enchanting and keep things hopping! Ms. Quinn continues to bring us brilliant conversations and entertaining stories. She is on my list of authors to watch.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 2, 2014
Gervais, Earl of Huntley, has left England to travel Europe and ends up in Venice to visit his Aunt Horatia, who is Godmamma to Lady Caro Martindale. From the moment Gervais saw Caro at the top of the stairs, he wanted her. Lady Caro left England 5 years ago under circumstances and has hidden hurts and secrets. During his visit with his aunt, he soon discovers the Marchese di Venier is determined to have Caro for his own, at all cost. Because of di Venier’s persistence of Lady Caro, Gervais, Lady Horatia and Lady Caro are forced to flee Venice. Caro and Gervais travel together and Lady Horatia travels alone, to meet up at Nancy. The trip starts out with Gervais intending only to protect Lady Caro, but turns into much more of a trip for both them. Avoiding di Venier as he pursues them, traveling together, the closeness they share, changes their opinions of each other. Can Caro learn to trust Gervais with her secret? Will they continue to allude di Venier? This book is an intriguing story. Filled with thrilling events at the pair travel together. I could not put this book down. It held my attention, as I connected with Gervais and Caro travel’s together. I would recommend this to any fan of regency/HEA stories. Meanwhile, as a sideline, Lady Horatia has her own adventure as she travels to meet with Gervais and Caro. From front to cover, a very excellent book.
April 7, 2014
Here comes the fourth Ella Quinn novel in her Marriage Game series and out of all four, and thanks to Ms. Quinn’s wonderful characterization of both hero and heroine, this was my favorite.
Poor Huntley! He watches as his friends one by one succumb to the ‘parsons noose’ and the only way he could escape this inevitable fate is to run as fast and as far as he possible can, in this case Venice and a visit to his Aunt, Lady Horatia.
Fate, however, has something and someone in store for him, and poor Huntley will not know what hit him as he meets Lady Caroline Martindale who had her own reasons for leaving her homeland a few years ago to stay with Lady Horatia, her godmother.
From the first meeting between the two, you could feel Huntley’s interest in Caro and wanting to unravel the enigma of her. Caroline’s aloofness to all the male suitors in general and one in particular, was intriguing to him and as soon as he realized the danger she was in, he did anything he could to protect her.
As they flee the villain, we’re treated to ...thanks for jumping to b2b to finish my review ...
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Poor Huntley! He watches as his friends one by one succumb to the ‘parsons noose’ and the only way he could escape this inevitable fate is to run as fast and as far as he possible can, in this case Venice and a visit to his Aunt, Lady Horatia.
Fate, however, has something and someone in store for him, and poor Huntley will not know what hit him as he meets Lady Caroline Martindale who had her own reasons for leaving her homeland a few years ago to stay with Lady Horatia, her godmother.
From the first meeting between the two, you could feel Huntley’s interest in Caro and wanting to unravel the enigma of her. Caroline’s aloofness to all the male suitors in general and one in particular, was intriguing to him and as soon as he realized the danger she was in, he did anything he could to protect her.
As they flee the villain, we’re treated to ...thanks for jumping to b2b to finish my review ...
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
May 27, 2022
Lady Caroline Martindale fled England for her godmother’s palazzo in Venice. Caro resorts to extreme measures to spurn the advances of a Venetian marquis. Gervais, Earl of Huntley, is determined not to marry. But his conviction falters when he sees Caro. What began as a lie to save her from the marquis leads to something more. This is 4th in a series and I vaguely remember reading the first one but it’s not necessary to read the others first.
This reads like a dull travelogue and the villain’s motivations were never adequately explained. Caro is a sexual assault survivor and this reads too close to “my new lover healed my trauma” for me. There were too many subplots and stupid miscommunications. Time spent with Horatia and John could have been spent making me care about Caro and Huntley.
Normally, I don’t comment on the percentage of the book that includes the story versus the back matter because all books have links, promo, and author info at the end. But this one stops at %72. More than a quarter of this file was sample chapters for other works.
I received an arc from NetGalley
This reads like a dull travelogue and the villain’s motivations were never adequately explained. Caro is a sexual assault survivor and this reads too close to “my new lover healed my trauma” for me. There were too many subplots and stupid miscommunications. Time spent with Horatia and John could have been spent making me care about Caro and Huntley.
Normally, I don’t comment on the percentage of the book that includes the story versus the back matter because all books have links, promo, and author info at the end. But this one stops at %72. More than a quarter of this file was sample chapters for other works.
I received an arc from NetGalley
August 29, 2022
Desiring Lady Caro is a rerelease of the fourth book in The Marriage Game series by Ella Quinn, originally published in 2014. I did not originally read this book when it first released, so I am not sure if it has gone through any editing changes for this release. This fast paced, marriage of convenience, road trip/on the run romance is full of entertainment, intrigue, sensuality, a "mustache twirling villain", with a secondary love story that keeps this novel clipping along to its conclusion. I was along for the ride every step of the way! Quinn's writing is charming, both romances where sweetly angsty and delightfully steamy, and the character's romance and plotting where perfectly balanced to keep the tension outside of the relationship at a high.
Lady Caro has escaped to the refuge of her godmother in Venice, haunted by a tragedy from her past (Content Note for Rape, which Lady Caro does think about a lot and effects the way she sees the value of herself as a wife). Thinking this will be the perfect place to fade into the background, she instead finds herself the desire of any and all marriageable aged men. Gervais, an earl, is determined to never get married, but Lady Caro is more alluring than he could have ever imagined, so he enters into a hasty marriage of convenience after forming a lie to save her from a lecherous marquis. Lady Horatia, Caro's godmother, also finds her own romance in this action filled road trip, with Captain John.
I love a good road trip romance, the forced proximity, the only one bed and then to add the tension of escape really helps to beautifully heighten the overall plotting the drive of the novel. I love that the majority of this novel is focused on this road trip, and I love that we have two love stories in action. Lady Caro and Gervais who have entered into a marriage of convenience and are very draw to the other and slowly come to realize that they want to have a true marriage. Then on the other side we have Lady Horatia and Captain John who are trying to case a distraction and another trail for the marquis to pursue, and these two have a repartee that sparks with tension and chemistry. I really love that we had these two love stories to bounce back in forth between and drive the plot forward. I love that Quinn gave time and growth to both couples, I love that Quinn explores both of these romantic relationships physically, and I enjoyed the third point of view of the villain as well. I love the this road trip romance takes place throughout the Italian Countryside which is a fun change from the typical English setting.
If you love romance, intrigue, sparkling chemistry and delicious sensuality, Desiring Lady Caro is the book for you. I definitely recommend this romance, especially if you love historical romance from the early 2000s, the plotting is and story feel perfectly complementary to historicals of that time.
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lady Caro has escaped to the refuge of her godmother in Venice, haunted by a tragedy from her past (Content Note for Rape, which Lady Caro does think about a lot and effects the way she sees the value of herself as a wife). Thinking this will be the perfect place to fade into the background, she instead finds herself the desire of any and all marriageable aged men. Gervais, an earl, is determined to never get married, but Lady Caro is more alluring than he could have ever imagined, so he enters into a hasty marriage of convenience after forming a lie to save her from a lecherous marquis. Lady Horatia, Caro's godmother, also finds her own romance in this action filled road trip, with Captain John.
I love a good road trip romance, the forced proximity, the only one bed and then to add the tension of escape really helps to beautifully heighten the overall plotting the drive of the novel. I love that the majority of this novel is focused on this road trip, and I love that we have two love stories in action. Lady Caro and Gervais who have entered into a marriage of convenience and are very draw to the other and slowly come to realize that they want to have a true marriage. Then on the other side we have Lady Horatia and Captain John who are trying to case a distraction and another trail for the marquis to pursue, and these two have a repartee that sparks with tension and chemistry. I really love that we had these two love stories to bounce back in forth between and drive the plot forward. I love that Quinn gave time and growth to both couples, I love that Quinn explores both of these romantic relationships physically, and I enjoyed the third point of view of the villain as well. I love the this road trip romance takes place throughout the Italian Countryside which is a fun change from the typical English setting.
If you love romance, intrigue, sparkling chemistry and delicious sensuality, Desiring Lady Caro is the book for you. I definitely recommend this romance, especially if you love historical romance from the early 2000s, the plotting is and story feel perfectly complementary to historicals of that time.
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2022
Quick Summary: A by the numbers romance
My Review: Desiring Lady Caro by Ella Quinn was a paint by the numbers love story. It brought together a dashing gentleman and a troubled innocent. There was also another story at play in this book.
About the Main Characters: Huntley and Caro
He was enchanted by her on sight. She took an instant disliking to him.
He was protective of her. She was guarded towards him.
He wanted to cherish her. She wanted to understand him.
He fully desired her. She secretly desired his attentions.
He wanted her to trust him and become his. She was confused, even as she was losing herself to his charm.
They ultimately got their HEA.
My Final Say: This was an interesting story. It had chills and thrills. Multiple moving parts were revealed within this book. Readers who enjoy period pieces with familiar tropes will appreciate this romance novel.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Reprint: Yes
Level: Slow burn
Trigger: Sexual assault mentioned
I voluntarily read this title via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own. Thanks to the author and to the publisher, who provided access to a digital copy of the work in exchange for an honest review.
My Review: Desiring Lady Caro by Ella Quinn was a paint by the numbers love story. It brought together a dashing gentleman and a troubled innocent. There was also another story at play in this book.
About the Main Characters: Huntley and Caro
He was enchanted by her on sight. She took an instant disliking to him.
He was protective of her. She was guarded towards him.
He wanted to cherish her. She wanted to understand him.
He fully desired her. She secretly desired his attentions.
He wanted her to trust him and become his. She was confused, even as she was losing herself to his charm.
They ultimately got their HEA.
My Final Say: This was an interesting story. It had chills and thrills. Multiple moving parts were revealed within this book. Readers who enjoy period pieces with familiar tropes will appreciate this romance novel.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Reprint: Yes
Level: Slow burn
Trigger: Sexual assault mentioned
I voluntarily read this title via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own. Thanks to the author and to the publisher, who provided access to a digital copy of the work in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2023
This was quite the wild escapade. So many people vowing never to wed, inevitably catching the dreaded disease -love, and succumbing to the affliction. I did quite enjoy it! There was just enough wild, inconceivable mishaps and complications to provide a wild ride of entertainment. Watching how patiently Huntley worked to understand Caro’s “problem”, made for very tender moments. He truly is a kind, understanding man… though not without faults of course. We do hit a speed bump of miscommunication of course. The multiple hea’s made for a nice surprise. I came for one love story but was gifted two.
February 12, 2020
Ich mag die Essenbeschreibungen immer noch und die Geschichte ist einfach süß.
February 2, 2023
Enjoyed the road-trip through Italy/ Austria/ France. Also all the food descriptions. But I really felt like this was more plat and I didn’t know the characters as well as I could have.
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