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The Man of My Dreams #2

My Runaway Heart

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A sheltered but impetuous young beauty, Lindsay Somerset would risk anything for a succulent taste of wild adventure--and Jared Giles, the dashing Earl of Dovercourt, is the answer to her prayers. A gallant and fearless gentleman, he is rumored to be a spy--and the ideal man to fulfill Lindsay's most cherished, unspoken desires. But once aboard ship on a raging sea, Lindsay realizes her bold hero has a dark secret and passions that know no bounds.

"My Runaway Heart enthralls readers with its charming characters and their exciting escapades. From ballrooms to sea battles, this is a winning read!" - Romantic Times

"Five stars...should be at the top of your shopping list! Miriam Minger is a fifty-carat jewel." - Affaire de Coeur

"Miriam Minger is a master storyteller who illustrates the full gamut of emotions felt by her characters. Emotions so strong that you are pulled into the pages and into their lives." - Inside Romance

"With Miriam Minger, you're assured of a good read!" - Heartland Critiques

Enjoy all four books in Miriam Minger's bestselling The Man of My Dreams

Book 1: SECRETS OF MIDNIGHT (Donovan and Corisande)
Book 2: MY RUNAWAY HEART (Jared and Lindsay)
Book 3: MY FORBIDDEN DUCHESS (Walker and Marguerite)
Book 4: KISSED AT TWILIGHT (Adam and Linette)

About Miriam Minger

Miriam Minger is the bestselling author of emotion-packed action adventure historical romances that sweep you from lusty medieval times to Regency England--and with some dangerously seductive 18th century tales in between. With two dozen books published in five languages, Miriam is also the author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, inspirational romantic suspense, and children's books. Her novels appear in multi-author boxed sets with such acclaimed talents as Kathryn Le Veque, Tanya Anne Crosby, Eliza Knight, Kimberly Cates, and Glynnis Campbell. Miriam Minger is the winner of several Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards--including Best Medieval Historical Romance of the Year for The Pagan's Prize--and a Romance Writers of America RITA Award Finalist for The Brigand Bride and Captive Rose.

377 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published November 1, 1995

293 people are currently reading
255 people want to read

About the author

Miriam Minger

66 books230 followers
Miriam Minger is the bestselling author of sweet to sensual historical romances that sweep you from Viking times to Regency England to the American West. Miriam is also the author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, inspirational romance, and children's books. She is the winner of several Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Awards--including Best Medieval Historical Romance of the Year for The Pagan's Prize--and a two-time RITA Award Finalist for The Brigand Bride and Captive Rose.

Miriam Minger says: It's been a wonderful experience to have all my novels published as eBooks, but the greatest thrill for me as a writer is when readers take the time to let me know they enjoyed my stories...

"I have read hundreds if not thousands of books in my lifetime and not once have I ever been moved to comment on one until now. This is without a doubt one of the best books I have ever read. I laughed. I cried. I remained at the edge of my seat devouring every single word you wove with this incredible story. I just wanted to let you know how deeply this story moved me and to thank you for creating it."

Wow. This one left me speechless, and thankful. I had done my job, which is to make you feel like you've dropped feet first into a world that captures your imagination and emotions so vividly you might be living and breathing the story. And that's one of the purest joys of reading, isn't it? I know it is for me, and it is my hope to continue to write books that make you live and breathe the adventure, laugh and cry, and that touch your heart.

I'd love for you to visit my website where you can sign up for my newsletter and read more about my books: www.miriamminger.com.

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5 stars
376 (49%)
4 stars
237 (31%)
3 stars
106 (13%)
2 stars
28 (3%)
1 star
11 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Kristy Halseth.
469 reviews2 followers
May 13, 2022
Lindsay is even more of a feather brain than the girl in previous book. In fact, she is SO naive that it becomes unbelievable. In fact, I would describe it as painful to even read. I also can't even figure out how Lindsay came to the conclusion that Jared wanted to marry her. She doesn't even seem like her emotions are engaged so much as he is exciting and she wants some excitement in her life. No matter how hard the author tried to create it, I see absolutely no connection between Lindsay and Jared. Although he will definitely be able to stand up to her stepmother.

Having to force yourself through a book is a bad sign. Finding in your list of books, 30% read, and forgotten about is a bad sign. Once I started it and remembered it, my first reaction was that, "oh, this is that completely idiotic woman," is also a bad sign. I really can't recommend this book.
Profile Image for Bowags12.
654 reviews50 followers
March 18, 2016
I really enjoyed the sassy, take no, no way, as an answer, Leslie. She just proves that nothing will stand, ocean, cannons, guards, in her way to get her HOT, man.
I loved nothing could ruffle her feathers, and the fact she can go ahead and "fair trade" as well as any seasoned pirate!
I was surprised of how little Corrie was in the book but the end result was all Corrie all over. True love-hot sex---yes
Profile Image for Lail.
267 reviews34 followers
June 3, 2019
My Runaway Heart (Book 2) by Miriam Minger
4.5 Stars! I enjoyed this romantic action packed adventure. The storyline is an emotional story centered around a tragically tortured pirate a.k.a. privateer, hell bent on vengeance and his vow to never open himself to care about anyone again. The heroine is a beautiful high energetic woman who sees beneath the hero’s hardened exterior no matter what his hard rakish reputation is. The storyline is intense, fast paced, and action packed, with witty and angst filled characters and dialogue. The romantic and sensual love scenes are a delicious four flamed Fire! I recommend this book to everyone who loves a great historical adventurous romance.
Profile Image for Susan.
423 reviews9 followers
September 26, 2017
3.5 Stars. I really liked the first book in The Man of My Dreams Series, but not so much this second one. Lindsey was quite determined to get her man, but I found "the chase" a little tiresome after awhile. I'm glad I stuck with it though, because I found it got better in the second half of the story, with more action, intrigue and adventure. I do like all the characters in this series, including Lindsey & Jared, and definitely plan to read the final book.
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,085 reviews132 followers
March 31, 2019
Sit back and buckle your seat belts because you are in for a fast paced adventure that will take you, it seems, around the world and back! Lindsay Somerset was so happy for her friend Corie who had found the man of her dreams and married him. Her only thought was "How long before she found the man of her dreams? She wanted someone to show her the world!"
Her world was about to change though as she met a man at a dance when she was trying to get away from an unwanted suitor. A man so handsome with the bluest of eyes and burnished dark blond hair and .. geez I was memorized myself! One Jared Giles, the Earl of Dovencourt who came to her rescue. But her aunt who was escorting her was undone because of the rumors of Jared. A rake, reported spy against Napoleon, a despoiler of young girls! Of course that made him all the more interesting to Lindsay!
Known as the Phoenix due to his firing of ships and always rising up through the ashes, Jared is taken with her thinking she is an experienced miss. But things do not turn out quite the way her thinks and Lindsey ends up on his ship.
Miriam Minger has created an action packed, fast paced story with a damaged hero who only wanted revenge for the past and an innocent, but determined heroine, who reached for what she wanted. Do not miss this one and if you have not read the first book, although not required, I would recommend and truly all the books in this series!!
Profile Image for The Duchess of Hollywood.
218 reviews
August 24, 2023
I got to 40% in this book and Lawd this was a mess. Lindsay is just such an airhead I couldn’t get past it. There was absolutely zero chemistry between Jared and Lindsay — I just don’t understand how this book has such high ratings? Wasn’t everyone else cringing at everything this dumb little girl did? When I was reading it, all I could picture was this little child running around after a grown adult because that’s how I pictured Lindsay. As a child. It made my skin crawl.
16 reviews
March 29, 2022
I really thought this book was silly, I just scanned the last half because it wasn't even a good fantasy. i never write bad reviews
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Celeste.
181 reviews2 followers
April 3, 2019
I loved this 2nd book in The Man of My Dreams Series. Although it can easily be read as a stand-alone, it’s better to read the first book for a background of Lindsey and Corie and the relationship they enjoy while risking their lives to help others. You get to enjoy how Corie met her husband in the first installment.

This book is the story of how Lindsey Somerset finally gets to attend her first Season in London in the hopes of finding the man of her own dreams. She has already decided that she wants an adventurous husband, yet all the men she has met at the many soirées she has attended have been dandified fortune seekers. That is, until Jerod Giles, Earl Of Dovercourt, rescues her from a fake “swoon!”

Jerod is living a double life as the notorious pirate “The Phoenix,” who is out to destroy as many British ships as possible as he rules the seas. Many believe The Phoenix to be American because Jerod is able to sound like an American. None would believe an Englishman would commit such horrors against their fellow countrymen.

Jerod makes plans to meet the beautiful Lindsey after midnight the day of their first encounter, and she is thrilled that he wants to learn more about her. However, her plans for an innocent adventure are not Jerod’s plans. He has every intention of seducing this lovely creature. After all, how innocent can she be if she makes plans for an assignation with him, after midnight no less! What follows is definitely one grand adventure, but not exactly what Lindsey had imagined. There are some humorous moments in this book, as well as a lot of grief, but in the end a HEA is guaranteed. I highly recommend this book!

Profile Image for Tracy DeNeal.
380 reviews19 followers
September 30, 2017
I can't say that I've ever read a story quite like this. I was captivated by Lindsay's open heart. No matter how bleak her situation, she never gave up on her dream and fought fiercely to achieve her goal.

Jared on the other hand is a silent mystery. He's almost shadowy and foreboding. Miriam Minger allows the reader only glimpses of the man beneath and concentrates on showing the contrasts of darkness and light that the two protagonists represent.

What a wild ride the author takes us on. Lindsay Somerset wants adventure in her marriage. She wants a strong and unyielding husband to combat her wicked stepmother. She gets all that and more in spades with Jared, the poor guy upon whom she sets her unwavering sights.

Glittering, but boring, ton balls, dive bars in seedy London, Almack's Assembly Room, back to the seedy side of London for a bare knuckles boxing match, smuggled on to privateer vessels, off to Ireland, then to Spain and back to England, we go along for the ride and it is a doozy.

I love these characters. Jared's back story is tragic and heartbreaking, you just want to gather him up and protect him. The love of a stalwart, idealistic woman was not what he wanted for himself, but was ultimately what he needed. What a treat to share their adventure.
35 reviews
September 23, 2019
Revenge and Love

Well what can I say? This book was mysterious and overwhelming with pain, anguish, love, sincerity and doubtfulness. Jared and Lindsey found each other at a ball and instantly connected but there were very harsh and extenuating circumstances that would keep them apart. I loved the book. It took awhile to get to the point of why Jared was so haunted but it was worth it. Sad to see someone in so much pain and anguish and know as Lindsey that she couldn't do anything to help. Except keep telling and showing Jared her love no matter how much he pushed her away. When you read this book and see the many things she does to stay with him to keep that love a live for him; you will believe it. Extraordinary. I never heard anything like it or seen anyone with that strength and compassion. When we love someone we will go to the ends of the earth for them truly. Depending on how strong that love is and hers was strong. Jared denied it but; well you'll see why. Read up because it's great due to other aspects I haven't divulged. Lots of danger in it too and surprises. I would recommend.
Profile Image for Cherie S.
1,125 reviews18 followers
February 20, 2021
He Was The Man Of Her Dreams And She Was Not Going To Let Him Get Away
What a terrific exciting story that was filled with every emotion you could gather in one story.
Fun and dreamy characters that were filled with determination, great exciting plot, pirates, tormenting situations, lust, danger, battles a few shocking moments that had been a big enough surprised I gasped out loud, and so very much more. Some of the characters from the first book are involved in this story also which was really wonderful.
The last several chapters were incredibly tense and dangerous.
I loved the story.
Profile Image for Bigbear Woolliscroft.
351 reviews
December 28, 2017
Historical romances need to come in sets, this is volume 2 and so the best friend needs a husband. Again the heroine is feisty, if more than a little naive (unlikely, if she had her upbringing) and but she is after a pirate/privateer and then the story goes ever so slightly into the Pirate/Buccanneer romance, before all sense of proportionality goes overboard...I read this at Christmas and felt very forgiving, especially as the characters were quite well written.
11 reviews
June 6, 2022
Whirlwind book

I don't know how the author does it. Each of her books are unique, a breathtaking adventure with whirlwind of events you'll never see coming. If you're looking for a romantic adventure, that will place you in the historical past, then pick up any of Miriam Minger's books. You'll not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Lisa.
899 reviews6 followers
October 10, 2022
🥰

She is hell bent on having some sort of fun and knowing she found the right man while he’s doing his best to convince her to not take risks with her life knowing full well what could become of her if she were ruined. But she could care less about being ruined when all she’s wanted is to travel and be loved by her perfect man.
1,332 reviews2 followers
December 17, 2022
Fierce heart

This is a beautiful wonderful story, spanning from the ballrooms of London to the back streets of the dirtiest parts of London, and on to the high seas. Lindsey and Jared will fight each other, and for each other. Their love is fierce and unstoppable.
Thank you ❤️
Profile Image for Ann Gonzalez.
1,509 reviews15 followers
August 2, 2017
Exciting

I really enjoyed this book. It was full of humour and action. I enjoyed the characters and also the characters from book one that made an appearance. Just be ready to read the next book. It's a must.
26 reviews
January 21, 2018
That was a very good story!

I was on the edge of my seat to the end. I could not put the book down. I like that this author does not treat the reader like an idiot, explaining everything large time.
2,418 reviews6 followers
January 21, 2021
Ok read

Overall a good read. I really was t impressed with Lindsey as well as I would have like. She was always putting her hero into deep trouble because she thought no one could handle things without her help.
Profile Image for Kath.
836 reviews
August 15, 2021
Lindsey, a young women determined to marry the man of her dreams! Such an intriguing adventure, Lords, Ladies, Wicked Stepmothers, smugglers and pirates. It’s been an amazing story, couldn’t put it down.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
162 reviews8 followers
December 29, 2021
Loved it

Loved having Lindsey find other adventure. Loved the ending, so different from most Regency romances. Character development and dialogue is superb. The plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is not a relaxing read, but it is a fun read.
80 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2022
I did not like Lindsey

Like her friend in the previous book Lindsey is impulsive, irrational, selfish, and stupid. If the next book has another stupid female I'll just stop with this series.
Profile Image for Suzette.
3,670 reviews20 followers
January 25, 2019
Adventure Abounds

Another brilliant story in this series. Jared and LIndsay are both fierce in their search for what they want. Fireworks!
3 reviews
October 26, 2019
Must read

Can’t wait for the next book and see where The privateers and the Easton sisters end up. A good read
3 reviews
March 10, 2021
Awesome Book

Couldn't put it down! Don't start at night if you expect to get sleep! 😁 Didn't want this one to end!
Profile Image for Charlene Davis.
1,144 reviews5 followers
January 14, 2022
Danger

Lots of excitement and undying love. Money made and money lost. Who wouldn't want to read about all of that. Its a fun book.
25 reviews
March 27, 2022
Exciting adventure

Loved all the twists and turns as well as many unforgettable characters. I could not put it down! And a great happy ending!
9 reviews
August 7, 2022
Wonderful book

I really enjoyed the action and the love stories. The was written very well. Keep writing these wonderful books thank you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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