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The Wicked Quills of London #1
Forever Your Earl
Eva Leigh's irresistible new series introduces the Wicked Quills of London: a group of bold, brilliant female writers whose spirited allure is beyond seductive...
Eleanor Hawke loves a good scandal. And readers of her successful gossip rag live for the exploits of her favorite subject: Daniel Balfour, the notorious Earl of Ashford. So when the earl himself marches into her office and invites her to experience his illicit pursuits firsthand, Eleanor is stunned. Gambling hells, phaeton races, masquerades . . . What more could a scandal writer want than a secret look into the life of this devilishly handsome rake?
Daniel has secrets, and if The Hawk's Eye gets wind of them, a man's life could be at stake. And what better way to distract a gossip than by feeding her the scandal she desperately craves? But Daniel never expected the sharp mind and biting wit of the beautiful writer, and their desire for each other threatens even his best-laid plans.
But when Eleanor learns the truth of his deception, Daniel will do anything to prove a romance between a commoner and an earl could really last forever.
Eleanor Hawke loves a good scandal. And readers of her successful gossip rag live for the exploits of her favorite subject: Daniel Balfour, the notorious Earl of Ashford. So when the earl himself marches into her office and invites her to experience his illicit pursuits firsthand, Eleanor is stunned. Gambling hells, phaeton races, masquerades . . . What more could a scandal writer want than a secret look into the life of this devilishly handsome rake?
Daniel has secrets, and if The Hawk's Eye gets wind of them, a man's life could be at stake. And what better way to distract a gossip than by feeding her the scandal she desperately craves? But Daniel never expected the sharp mind and biting wit of the beautiful writer, and their desire for each other threatens even his best-laid plans.
But when Eleanor learns the truth of his deception, Daniel will do anything to prove a romance between a commoner and an earl could really last forever.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2015
195 people are currently reading
3388 people want to read
About the author
Eva Leigh
27 books1,477 followersEva Leigh is a USA Today bestselling romance author. A graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, her books have been featured by the New York Times, NPR, Oprah Daily, the Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist, Self, Paste Magazine, and many more. Her work has also been translated into numerous languages. She lives on the Central California coast with her husband and cats. Visit her on the web at evaleighauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 431 reviews
September 5, 2015
First, disclaimer: Eva Leigh is a friend of mine, and we write for the same publisher. So I'm biased.
That said, I don't think anyone who knows me at all could doubt that I genuinely adored this book. To begin with, the "Wicked Quills of London" concept is pretty much everything I'm wired to love--an entire series built around intelligent heroines who write, often inappropriately? YES, PLEASE. A scandal-sheet publisher and an infamous rake as heroine and hero? GIVE ME MORE. <3
The witty banter between Eleanor and Daniel is sharp and funny, interspersed with romantic moments that made me sigh with happiness. (I loved the carriage-race scene in particular.)
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where Eva Leigh takes the Wicked Quills series next. If you like smart, independent heroines, rakish-yet-respectful heroes, and snappy dialogue in your historical romance, put FOREVER YOUR EARL on your TBR.
That said, I don't think anyone who knows me at all could doubt that I genuinely adored this book. To begin with, the "Wicked Quills of London" concept is pretty much everything I'm wired to love--an entire series built around intelligent heroines who write, often inappropriately? YES, PLEASE. A scandal-sheet publisher and an infamous rake as heroine and hero? GIVE ME MORE. <3
The witty banter between Eleanor and Daniel is sharp and funny, interspersed with romantic moments that made me sigh with happiness. (I loved the carriage-race scene in particular.)
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where Eva Leigh takes the Wicked Quills series next. If you like smart, independent heroines, rakish-yet-respectful heroes, and snappy dialogue in your historical romance, put FOREVER YOUR EARL on your TBR.
November 20, 2015
The sweetest gifts are the most ephemeral. An orange at Christmas. The first hawthorn flower of spring. A beloved’s kiss. They all pass in hardly the time it takes to draw breath. Thus we must grab hold of these prizes and cling to them tightly, before they slip from our grasp and into the realm of memory.
Forever Your Earl is the first book in Eva Leigh’s Wicked Quills of London series and I loved it! I was blown away by to think this could possibly be Ms. Leigh’s debut, until I learned that Eva Leigh is, in fact, Zoë Archer – another favorite author of mine.
Blurb…
Eleanor Hawke loves a good scandal. And readers of her successful gossip rag live for the exploits of her favorite subject: Daniel Balfour, the notorious Earl of Ashford. So when the earl himself marches into her office and invites her to experience his illicit pursuits firsthand, Eleanor is stunned. Gambling hells, phaeton races, masquerades . . . What more could a scandal writer want than a secret look into the life of this devilishly handsome rake?
Daniel has secrets, and if The Hawk's Eye gets wind of them, a man's life could be at stake. And what better way to distract a gossip than by feeding her the scandal she desperately craves? But Daniel never expected the sharp mind and biting wit of the beautiful writer, and their desire for each other threatens even his best-laid plans.
But when Eleanor learns the truth of his deception, Daniel will do anything to prove a romance between a commoner and an earl could really last forever.
My thoughts…
There are already many excellent reviews of this story, so I’ll keep mine short. I’ve read some of Zoë Archer’s Steampunk Nemesis Unlimited books and loved them, and had been hoping she’d write straight historical romance, too, because I knew they’d be stories brilliantly told, and I was right. A solid story, lot’s clever dialog, sexual chemistry off the charts, and laugh out loud moments has made Forever Your Earl an absolute delight to read, and I am sooooo looking forward to more!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation I’m giving them an honest review.
Forever Your Earl is the first book in Eva Leigh’s Wicked Quills of London series and I loved it! I was blown away by to think this could possibly be Ms. Leigh’s debut, until I learned that Eva Leigh is, in fact, Zoë Archer – another favorite author of mine.
Blurb…
Eleanor Hawke loves a good scandal. And readers of her successful gossip rag live for the exploits of her favorite subject: Daniel Balfour, the notorious Earl of Ashford. So when the earl himself marches into her office and invites her to experience his illicit pursuits firsthand, Eleanor is stunned. Gambling hells, phaeton races, masquerades . . . What more could a scandal writer want than a secret look into the life of this devilishly handsome rake?
Daniel has secrets, and if The Hawk's Eye gets wind of them, a man's life could be at stake. And what better way to distract a gossip than by feeding her the scandal she desperately craves? But Daniel never expected the sharp mind and biting wit of the beautiful writer, and their desire for each other threatens even his best-laid plans.
But when Eleanor learns the truth of his deception, Daniel will do anything to prove a romance between a commoner and an earl could really last forever.
My thoughts…
There are already many excellent reviews of this story, so I’ll keep mine short. I’ve read some of Zoë Archer’s Steampunk Nemesis Unlimited books and loved them, and had been hoping she’d write straight historical romance, too, because I knew they’d be stories brilliantly told, and I was right. A solid story, lot’s clever dialog, sexual chemistry off the charts, and laugh out loud moments has made Forever Your Earl an absolute delight to read, and I am sooooo looking forward to more!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation I’m giving them an honest review.
July 26, 2016
I've given this an A at AAR. I had a couple of small nigggles, but not enough to knock the grade down.
When it was announced at last year’s RWA that Zoe Archer was going to be turning her hand to writing Regency romances under the pseudonym of Eva Leigh, I was undoubtedly one of many immediately asking “when? WHEN?!” (and "who do I have to kill to get a copy?") I have enjoyed other books of hers, most notably her Victorian-set Nemesis Unlimited series, which featured tightly-plotted, action-packed storylines, strong, independently-minded heroines, wickedly sexy heroes and great dialogue. I started reading Forever Your Earl hoping for more of the same – and wasn’t disappointed.
Eleanor Hawke, editor and proprietor of The Hawk’s Eye, a modestly successful periodical devoted to exposing the foibles of the rich and infamous, is surprised when completely out of the blue, one of her most recent targets, the rakish – and, she has to admit, gorgeous - Earl of Ashford storms into her office. He angrily insists that she stop printing lies about him, even going so far as to suggest that her readers might like to read actual news rather than “spurious gossip about a figure as inconsequential as myself.”
But Daniel Balfour has more at stake than simply putting a stop to gossip. For weeks, he has been trying to discover the whereabouts of his oldest friend, Jonathan Lawson, who disappeared into London’s underbelly before learning that the death of his brother had elevated him to a dukedom. Lawson, unlike Daniel, had been able to serve in the army during the recent war, but returned from it a changed man. All Daniel has to go on is that shortly before his disappearance, Jonathan had been seen in the worst sort of company in the less salubrious areas of London – and knows that should news of it ever leak out, it will ruin him, his family and his sister’s chance of making a good marriage. As Jonathan’s closest friend, Daniel can’t allow that to happen and besides, he feels partially responsible for the situation, having noticed something wasn’t right with his friend and not having taken any steps to help him.
Realising that having his every move scrutinised so closely could jepoardise his search and increase the risk to the Lawson family, Daniel decides to turn the gaze of The Hawk’s Eye elsewhere, by offering to open up his life to public scrutiny within its pages. He offers Eleanor the chance to write the truth about him; where he goes, what he does and who he sees, the life of one of the ton’s most infamous rakes setout in black and while for all the world to see.
While not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth, Eleanor knows there is more to Ashford’s offer than meets the eye. Reasoning that as long as they’re using each other, she decides she might as well take him up on it, even as she stamps down on the thought that her motives for getting close to the earl might not all be to do with her wish to increase sales.
There’s a lot going on in this book beneath the surface action of Eleanor accompanying Daniel on various escapades, and his search for his friend. The couple has terrific chemistry, and the romance between them is witty, intense, highly sensual and, at times, heartbreaking. The characterisation of the leads is excellent, both of them strong, determined people who are nonetheless missing a subtle something that the other is able to supply. Eleanor has made her way in a man’s world and is intelligent and shrewd without being shrewish or mannish. She likes men – she’s had lovers – but ultimately, the paper she built from nothing is her true passion. Daniel, while rich, handsome and titled, feels guilty and inadequate because he didn’t reach out to his friend when he most needed him, and is at a crossroads in his life, no longer wanting the life of a useless fribble, but unsure of what he can contribute. In Daniel, Eleanor finds someone who really listens to her and takes her seriously, and in her, he finds someone who breaks through his cultivated cynical detachment and sees him for who he really is.
As is so often the case with heroes who are described as rakes or rogues, Daniel really is neither – or not that we see within the confines of the story. What we do see is an honourable, clever, well-read and witty man who is prepared to put his money where his mouth is when it comes to the woman he loves, in spite of the huge social gulf between them.
This is another thing that is well-handled within the story; cross-class historical romances are difficult to pull off because of the social rigidity of the time, but the author doesn’t ignore the problems and has both protagonists well-aware of them from the outset. Yet the more time they spend together, the more it becomes apparent to them both that they are much more than ships who pass in the night – but it’s going to take a lot of courage on both sides if they are to thumb their noses at society and follow their hearts.
Ms Leigh also has a lot to say about the inequality of the sexes; in fact, the copy I have on my Kindle is full of highlights such as this, from a scene early on in which Eleanor is disgused as a man prior to their visit to a select gaming hell:
”It’s the diametric opposite to the way women are taught to walk. We’re told to take up as little space as possible. Not attract attention to ourselves. Not claim anything as our own.”
He started. None of this had ever occurred to him. He’s always suspected that women walked differently from men because of biology, but never from truly learned behaviour, lessons that included how females were perceived or thought of themselves in the world.
“But you,” she continued. “It’s like everything is yours. You can claim it all and no one will gainsay you…”
His laugh was short and strained. Here he’d taken her into this alley to give her some simple instruction on the way to walk like a man, and suddenly he’d been given an entirely new insight into what it meant to BE a man. What it meant to be a woman.
The other many highlights are of the wonderful banter between the pair. The dialogue in this book really is to die for; it’s sharp, witty, innuendo-laden—and often downright hilarious, such as the moment when, upon entering the gambling hell, Eleanor declares it to be “Debrett’s gone feral.”
I only have one real complaint about the book, which is that while I enjoyed it enormously, I never got a Regency “vibe” from it. Ms Leigh makes all the right references to styles of dress, events and social customs, but in my head, the books is set several decades after 1816. I can understand that perhaps the choice of time period was deliberately made in order to distance the author’s Eva Leigh persona from her Zoe Archer one, but the book just doesn’t scream “Regency” to me. Daniel’s reference to an omnibus is another thing that made me question the setting, because I don’t believe these appeared in the UK until the 1820s.
Those things apart, though, Forever Your Earl is a terrific story and one I have no qualms about recommending most heartily. The reservations I’ve expressed in no way affected my enjoyment and the book is most definitely going on to my keeper shelf.
When it was announced at last year’s RWA that Zoe Archer was going to be turning her hand to writing Regency romances under the pseudonym of Eva Leigh, I was undoubtedly one of many immediately asking “when? WHEN?!” (and "who do I have to kill to get a copy?") I have enjoyed other books of hers, most notably her Victorian-set Nemesis Unlimited series, which featured tightly-plotted, action-packed storylines, strong, independently-minded heroines, wickedly sexy heroes and great dialogue. I started reading Forever Your Earl hoping for more of the same – and wasn’t disappointed.
Eleanor Hawke, editor and proprietor of The Hawk’s Eye, a modestly successful periodical devoted to exposing the foibles of the rich and infamous, is surprised when completely out of the blue, one of her most recent targets, the rakish – and, she has to admit, gorgeous - Earl of Ashford storms into her office. He angrily insists that she stop printing lies about him, even going so far as to suggest that her readers might like to read actual news rather than “spurious gossip about a figure as inconsequential as myself.”
But Daniel Balfour has more at stake than simply putting a stop to gossip. For weeks, he has been trying to discover the whereabouts of his oldest friend, Jonathan Lawson, who disappeared into London’s underbelly before learning that the death of his brother had elevated him to a dukedom. Lawson, unlike Daniel, had been able to serve in the army during the recent war, but returned from it a changed man. All Daniel has to go on is that shortly before his disappearance, Jonathan had been seen in the worst sort of company in the less salubrious areas of London – and knows that should news of it ever leak out, it will ruin him, his family and his sister’s chance of making a good marriage. As Jonathan’s closest friend, Daniel can’t allow that to happen and besides, he feels partially responsible for the situation, having noticed something wasn’t right with his friend and not having taken any steps to help him.
Realising that having his every move scrutinised so closely could jepoardise his search and increase the risk to the Lawson family, Daniel decides to turn the gaze of The Hawk’s Eye elsewhere, by offering to open up his life to public scrutiny within its pages. He offers Eleanor the chance to write the truth about him; where he goes, what he does and who he sees, the life of one of the ton’s most infamous rakes setout in black and while for all the world to see.
While not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth, Eleanor knows there is more to Ashford’s offer than meets the eye. Reasoning that as long as they’re using each other, she decides she might as well take him up on it, even as she stamps down on the thought that her motives for getting close to the earl might not all be to do with her wish to increase sales.
There’s a lot going on in this book beneath the surface action of Eleanor accompanying Daniel on various escapades, and his search for his friend. The couple has terrific chemistry, and the romance between them is witty, intense, highly sensual and, at times, heartbreaking. The characterisation of the leads is excellent, both of them strong, determined people who are nonetheless missing a subtle something that the other is able to supply. Eleanor has made her way in a man’s world and is intelligent and shrewd without being shrewish or mannish. She likes men – she’s had lovers – but ultimately, the paper she built from nothing is her true passion. Daniel, while rich, handsome and titled, feels guilty and inadequate because he didn’t reach out to his friend when he most needed him, and is at a crossroads in his life, no longer wanting the life of a useless fribble, but unsure of what he can contribute. In Daniel, Eleanor finds someone who really listens to her and takes her seriously, and in her, he finds someone who breaks through his cultivated cynical detachment and sees him for who he really is.
As is so often the case with heroes who are described as rakes or rogues, Daniel really is neither – or not that we see within the confines of the story. What we do see is an honourable, clever, well-read and witty man who is prepared to put his money where his mouth is when it comes to the woman he loves, in spite of the huge social gulf between them.
This is another thing that is well-handled within the story; cross-class historical romances are difficult to pull off because of the social rigidity of the time, but the author doesn’t ignore the problems and has both protagonists well-aware of them from the outset. Yet the more time they spend together, the more it becomes apparent to them both that they are much more than ships who pass in the night – but it’s going to take a lot of courage on both sides if they are to thumb their noses at society and follow their hearts.
Ms Leigh also has a lot to say about the inequality of the sexes; in fact, the copy I have on my Kindle is full of highlights such as this, from a scene early on in which Eleanor is disgused as a man prior to their visit to a select gaming hell:
”It’s the diametric opposite to the way women are taught to walk. We’re told to take up as little space as possible. Not attract attention to ourselves. Not claim anything as our own.”
He started. None of this had ever occurred to him. He’s always suspected that women walked differently from men because of biology, but never from truly learned behaviour, lessons that included how females were perceived or thought of themselves in the world.
“But you,” she continued. “It’s like everything is yours. You can claim it all and no one will gainsay you…”
His laugh was short and strained. Here he’d taken her into this alley to give her some simple instruction on the way to walk like a man, and suddenly he’d been given an entirely new insight into what it meant to BE a man. What it meant to be a woman.
The other many highlights are of the wonderful banter between the pair. The dialogue in this book really is to die for; it’s sharp, witty, innuendo-laden—and often downright hilarious, such as the moment when, upon entering the gambling hell, Eleanor declares it to be “Debrett’s gone feral.”
I only have one real complaint about the book, which is that while I enjoyed it enormously, I never got a Regency “vibe” from it. Ms Leigh makes all the right references to styles of dress, events and social customs, but in my head, the books is set several decades after 1816. I can understand that perhaps the choice of time period was deliberately made in order to distance the author’s Eva Leigh persona from her Zoe Archer one, but the book just doesn’t scream “Regency” to me. Daniel’s reference to an omnibus is another thing that made me question the setting, because I don’t believe these appeared in the UK until the 1820s.
Those things apart, though, Forever Your Earl is a terrific story and one I have no qualms about recommending most heartily. The reservations I’ve expressed in no way affected my enjoyment and the book is most definitely going on to my keeper shelf.
February 2, 2016
I feel like a curmudgeon but this had such a modern bent to it. The hero and heroine's views and conversations could have been ripped out of today's feminist issues and dialogues. From the heroine dressing as a man and seeing and feeling what power they are handed for simply being male, a man coming on to her and her friend and then basically saying they aren't worthy of him anyway when they deny him, to the hero leaving a note on man he had knocked out and the heroine had beat up a bit that read along the lines of I treat women horribly. I had to constantly fight to have the setting be historical, would have loved this as a contemporary.
There were at times, too, that the conversations were all a bit too clever and the plot and intricacies of the hero needing to keep the heroine and society occupied as he searched (sort of searched, let's be honest) for his friend. I'm going to give the next in the series a shot because I like the author's writing style.
It seems I'm at a crossroads of my older historicals being way too problematic at times and my newer historicals being too chock full of wonderful feminism. Is anyone else having this problem or is my psyche having a woman in her thirties (perfect age to be tired of the b.s. but still idealistic or indoctrinated to cling to old views/values) battle?
There were at times, too, that the conversations were all a bit too clever and the plot and intricacies of the hero needing to keep the heroine and society occupied as he searched (sort of searched, let's be honest) for his friend. I'm going to give the next in the series a shot because I like the author's writing style.
It seems I'm at a crossroads of my older historicals being way too problematic at times and my newer historicals being too chock full of wonderful feminism. Is anyone else having this problem or is my psyche having a woman in her thirties (perfect age to be tired of the b.s. but still idealistic or indoctrinated to cling to old views/values) battle?
May 16, 2020
I like Eva Leigh. I follow her on Twitter. She’s funny and feminist. There’s some of that personality in this book.
But, mostly, Avon have done it again (It Takes a Scandal): I was both bored and irritated simultaneously.
This is, like all Avon books, a series of barely connected romcom scenes between a rakish ‘aristo’, as Leigh insists on calling our hero, and the spirited woman who will capture his heart.
He’s handsome and rich and entirely devoid of personality. She’s interesting and feisty, entirely too modern and could do much better than him.
It’s eye-wateringly cheesy in places, “ “Are there any rules here?” she whispered to Daniel. “Only one,” he answered lowly. His breath was warm and tobacco-scented against her cheek. “Obey no rules.” “
“He took an oyster from one of the trays. His eyes never leaving hers, he tilted his head back. Gulped the oyster down.” Leaving aside the physical issues - I don’t see that it’s possible for a tall man to shot an oyster and hold the eye of a shorter woman whilst he does so - is this supposed to be sexy? I know oysters are an aphrodisiac or whatever, but really? Oysters aren’t sexy. They’re bogeys in ugly ass shells and these characters are in London in 1812, so fuck only knows how long that oyster has been stewing in its own room temperature juices because you didn’t harvest it from the Thames, you know what I mean? And they’re drinking, so all I get from this scene is that he’s going to have a hell of a stomach ache in the morning. And I know romance novels do not require absolute accuracy and I am perfectly capable of suspending my disbelief, but, my God, you’ll need to write a better bloody book than this.
And no one behaves like a normal person: Who pauses mid sex scene to have a limerick contest? The hero and heroine of this book, that's who. And they weren’t good limericks. This is not a shitty Richard Curtis romcom for the love of God.
Made it to about 82% and lost the will to continue.
But, mostly, Avon have done it again (It Takes a Scandal): I was both bored and irritated simultaneously.
This is, like all Avon books, a series of barely connected romcom scenes between a rakish ‘aristo’, as Leigh insists on calling our hero, and the spirited woman who will capture his heart.
He’s handsome and rich and entirely devoid of personality. She’s interesting and feisty, entirely too modern and could do much better than him.
It’s eye-wateringly cheesy in places, “ “Are there any rules here?” she whispered to Daniel. “Only one,” he answered lowly. His breath was warm and tobacco-scented against her cheek. “Obey no rules.” “
“He took an oyster from one of the trays. His eyes never leaving hers, he tilted his head back. Gulped the oyster down.” Leaving aside the physical issues - I don’t see that it’s possible for a tall man to shot an oyster and hold the eye of a shorter woman whilst he does so - is this supposed to be sexy? I know oysters are an aphrodisiac or whatever, but really? Oysters aren’t sexy. They’re bogeys in ugly ass shells and these characters are in London in 1812, so fuck only knows how long that oyster has been stewing in its own room temperature juices because you didn’t harvest it from the Thames, you know what I mean? And they’re drinking, so all I get from this scene is that he’s going to have a hell of a stomach ache in the morning. And I know romance novels do not require absolute accuracy and I am perfectly capable of suspending my disbelief, but, my God, you’ll need to write a better bloody book than this.
And no one behaves like a normal person: Who pauses mid sex scene to have a limerick contest? The hero and heroine of this book, that's who. And they weren’t good limericks. This is not a shitty Richard Curtis romcom for the love of God.
Made it to about 82% and lost the will to continue.
October 20, 2015
Forever Your Earl is the first book in The Wicked Quills of London by Eva Leigh and it follows a brilliant woman, Eleanor Hawke, a writer who lives for a good scandal to entertain the readers of her newspaper with. When one of her favorite subjects shows up in her office, the last thing Eleanor expects was to end up experiencing his illicit pursuit by the earls side.
Ashford has his own reasons for allowing Eleanor to tag along on his exploits. As long as the woman keeps her focus on his rakish behavior for her newspaper, he can continue searching for his friend Jonathan and hopefully keep his family out of a scandal that can ruin them, should his disappearance go public.
If you have followed me for a while, you know I love my historical romance and Eva Leigh did a good job delivering exactly what I wanted. A swoon worthy romance, an entertaining plot, and well written main characters.
Eleanor and Ashford were fantastic together.
"You set me adrift," she confessed.
"And you anchor me," he answered.
Seriously. They had so many moments that melted my heart. She was a hard working woman who made a name for herself and built her newspaper from scratch. He is an earl who has a lot of money, lots of free time on his hands and very unsure of the purpose he has in his life. Together, they made a great duo that I could not help but root for, especially when in their day and age, society would frown upon their match.
"We've degenerated into name-calling now." She shook her head. "The last refuge of those deprived of wit."
"Now who's calling names?" He grinned.
The banter between them was so much fun. I loved how the two clicked together and the tension that built around their relationship. Eleanor seemed to have bought out a different side of Ashford, a very vulnerable side that not even Ashford he was aware of. His confessions to her about not knowing his purpose was heart touching.
The plot I found interesting as well. Daniel (Ashford) search for his friend fueled Eleanor's writing and the reason why the two have ventured into some questionable places. Jonathan's story was also very heartbreaking, a veteran of war with demons. I hope he eventually get's his own book.
This was my first taste of Leigh writing and I really did enjoy it. I am looking forward to exploring more of her writing in the future.
I leave you with one more...
A long while later, she said, "You've a peculiar way of showing a woman you love her."
"Never done it before," he answered.
This review was originally posted on Night Owl Book Café
August 22, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Forever Your Earl by Eva Leigh
Book One of The Wicked Quills of London series
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: September 29, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Eva Leigh makes her Avon debut with the first book in her smart and sexy Wicked Quills of London series!
Eleanor Hawke loves a good scandal. And readers of her successful gossip rag live for the exploits of her favorite subject: Daniel Balfour, the notorious Earl of Ashford. So when the earl himself marches into her office one day and invites her to experience his illicit pursuits firsthand, Eleanor is stunned. Gambling hells, phaeton races, masquerades…What more could a scandal writer want than a secret look into the life of this devilishly handsome rake?
Daniel has secrets and if The Hawk’s Eye gets wind of them, a man’s life could be at stake. And what better way to distract a gossip than by feeding her the scandal she desperately craves? But Daniel never expected the sharp mind and biting wit of the beautiful writer, and their desire for each other threatens even his best laid plans.
But when Eleanor learns the truth of his deception, Daniel will do anything to prove a romance between a commoner and an earl could really last forever.
What I Liked:
Debut historical romance author! I personally don't come across too many of these first novels from first-time authors, so I always make a mental note when I do. Debut novels are extra special! Especially when they're really good, written like a tenth novel from the author. I enjoyed this book! Lots of witty banter, good chemistry, and likable characters!
Eleanor is a self-made woman, a writer who owns and runs her business. She writes scandals for her paper, The Hawk's Eye. When one of her illustrious subjects, Lord Ashford, comes to her directly and offers to take her about and show her his life as a rake, how can she refuse? Eleanor knows he has ulterior motives, but she knows an opportunity when she sees one. Daniel, Earl of Ashford is trying to turn The Hawk's Eye away from something specific that he is doing - looking for a fallen comrade. But in the process, this very earl and this very journalist find it impossible not to fall for each other... but can this unlikely romance survive?
My absolute favorite thing about this book is all the banter between Eleanor and Ashford! Eleanor is a writer, and a sometimes sarcastic one. In any case, she is observant and has a quick mind, so her tongue is sharp and she is unafraid to tell Daniel anything on her mind. Daniel is a master opponent, just as adept with trading barbs. They play games with each other in words like pros. It is so fun to watch! I enjoy their relationship.
Specifically, I like the romance. They meet when he storms in her office, and she takes him up on his offer to let him show her into his life as a rake. Their first night about, she has to dress as a man. This particular night takes up a huge chunk of the book, maybe 20% alone (that's a lot for one night!). After that, things take off. Daniel finds that he cannot stop thinking about his clever companion, and Eleanor cannot stop thinking about the earl who is more than a rich, powerful man.
I like Eleanor, and not just for her wit! Though her clever mind is a big part. She is inquisitive and curious, very smart and very calculating, but not in a cold way. She can sniff out situations like a mathematician solves equations! She is also candid and honest, bold and not shy at all. She isn't ashamed of what she does (the newspaper, as a woman), or who she is (a poor plebeian).
I liked Daniel too! He is a kind man, but also wicked and very rakish. He is definitely a hawt HR male protagonist, and it's no wonder Eleanor can't stop thinking about him or picturing him a certain... way. He's guilty about the friend he's looking for, and it's clear to me that he is a good, noble, selfless man that shouldn't feel so guilty!
I loved the romance! As I said before, I liked watching the banter flow between the two characters. The chemistry is very present throughout the book. I would have like to see more steamy scenes between the two (the author definitely held back, compared to what I usually expect from historical romance novels). But I liked the progression of the relationship, even if it seemed a little fast.
There was another really REALLY great thing about this book - it's a very progressive historical romance novel. At first, you might think, that's anachronistic! Eleanor is running her own business and publishing work as a woman! I think this modern aspect really helped the book, and made it unique. I love the progressiveness of the story, the feminism!
The conflict - Daniel looking for his friend - is always in the back of Daniel's mind. He goes to all these debauched places with Eleanor in search of his friend, not just the cover of taking her to see his rakish life. Will he find the friend? You'll have to read this book to find out...
The ending is satisfying on pretty much all accounts! It ends a little too perfectly, in my opinion, but I rolled with it. I wanted a little more romantic epilogue type of thing between Daniel and Eleanor, but there was an epilogue, and it did feature the two of them, so I guess I shouldn't complain too much. Hopefully the author's writing gets even better as the series goes!
What I Did Not Like:
Like I said above, not enough steamy scenes! At least, not enough as I would expect from a historical romance novel, especially an Avon one. There was one main one, well over halfway through the book. And then a few short or curtailed ones. Maybe I'm just a needy romance reader!
And I mentioned the ending - it was very cookie-cutter perfect! I wanted a little more clear resolution on a few things, and a nice expanded closing between Daniel and Eleanor. Of course, you can't always get what you want! This particular point isn't a huge deal.
Would I Recommend It:
As far as historical romance novels go, this one isn't bad at all! I really liked the witty banter and chemistry between Daniel and Eleanor. And the feminism and progressiveness of the novel! Eva Leigh is definitely an up and coming historical romance writer to watch.
Rating:
4 stars. I will definitely be looking forward to reading the second novel in the series! Marwood is my favorite secondary character of this novel, so I can't wait to see him and his chosen opposing lady in action. Both are some of my favorites, such interesting characters!
Forever Your Earl by Eva Leigh
Book One of The Wicked Quills of London series
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: September 29, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Eva Leigh makes her Avon debut with the first book in her smart and sexy Wicked Quills of London series!
Eleanor Hawke loves a good scandal. And readers of her successful gossip rag live for the exploits of her favorite subject: Daniel Balfour, the notorious Earl of Ashford. So when the earl himself marches into her office one day and invites her to experience his illicit pursuits firsthand, Eleanor is stunned. Gambling hells, phaeton races, masquerades…What more could a scandal writer want than a secret look into the life of this devilishly handsome rake?
Daniel has secrets and if The Hawk’s Eye gets wind of them, a man’s life could be at stake. And what better way to distract a gossip than by feeding her the scandal she desperately craves? But Daniel never expected the sharp mind and biting wit of the beautiful writer, and their desire for each other threatens even his best laid plans.
But when Eleanor learns the truth of his deception, Daniel will do anything to prove a romance between a commoner and an earl could really last forever.
What I Liked:
Debut historical romance author! I personally don't come across too many of these first novels from first-time authors, so I always make a mental note when I do. Debut novels are extra special! Especially when they're really good, written like a tenth novel from the author. I enjoyed this book! Lots of witty banter, good chemistry, and likable characters!
Eleanor is a self-made woman, a writer who owns and runs her business. She writes scandals for her paper, The Hawk's Eye. When one of her illustrious subjects, Lord Ashford, comes to her directly and offers to take her about and show her his life as a rake, how can she refuse? Eleanor knows he has ulterior motives, but she knows an opportunity when she sees one. Daniel, Earl of Ashford is trying to turn The Hawk's Eye away from something specific that he is doing - looking for a fallen comrade. But in the process, this very earl and this very journalist find it impossible not to fall for each other... but can this unlikely romance survive?
My absolute favorite thing about this book is all the banter between Eleanor and Ashford! Eleanor is a writer, and a sometimes sarcastic one. In any case, she is observant and has a quick mind, so her tongue is sharp and she is unafraid to tell Daniel anything on her mind. Daniel is a master opponent, just as adept with trading barbs. They play games with each other in words like pros. It is so fun to watch! I enjoy their relationship.
Specifically, I like the romance. They meet when he storms in her office, and she takes him up on his offer to let him show her into his life as a rake. Their first night about, she has to dress as a man. This particular night takes up a huge chunk of the book, maybe 20% alone (that's a lot for one night!). After that, things take off. Daniel finds that he cannot stop thinking about his clever companion, and Eleanor cannot stop thinking about the earl who is more than a rich, powerful man.
I like Eleanor, and not just for her wit! Though her clever mind is a big part. She is inquisitive and curious, very smart and very calculating, but not in a cold way. She can sniff out situations like a mathematician solves equations! She is also candid and honest, bold and not shy at all. She isn't ashamed of what she does (the newspaper, as a woman), or who she is (a poor plebeian).
I liked Daniel too! He is a kind man, but also wicked and very rakish. He is definitely a hawt HR male protagonist, and it's no wonder Eleanor can't stop thinking about him or picturing him a certain... way. He's guilty about the friend he's looking for, and it's clear to me that he is a good, noble, selfless man that shouldn't feel so guilty!
I loved the romance! As I said before, I liked watching the banter flow between the two characters. The chemistry is very present throughout the book. I would have like to see more steamy scenes between the two (the author definitely held back, compared to what I usually expect from historical romance novels). But I liked the progression of the relationship, even if it seemed a little fast.
There was another really REALLY great thing about this book - it's a very progressive historical romance novel. At first, you might think, that's anachronistic! Eleanor is running her own business and publishing work as a woman! I think this modern aspect really helped the book, and made it unique. I love the progressiveness of the story, the feminism!
The conflict - Daniel looking for his friend - is always in the back of Daniel's mind. He goes to all these debauched places with Eleanor in search of his friend, not just the cover of taking her to see his rakish life. Will he find the friend? You'll have to read this book to find out...
The ending is satisfying on pretty much all accounts! It ends a little too perfectly, in my opinion, but I rolled with it. I wanted a little more romantic epilogue type of thing between Daniel and Eleanor, but there was an epilogue, and it did feature the two of them, so I guess I shouldn't complain too much. Hopefully the author's writing gets even better as the series goes!
What I Did Not Like:
Like I said above, not enough steamy scenes! At least, not enough as I would expect from a historical romance novel, especially an Avon one. There was one main one, well over halfway through the book. And then a few short or curtailed ones. Maybe I'm just a needy romance reader!
And I mentioned the ending - it was very cookie-cutter perfect! I wanted a little more clear resolution on a few things, and a nice expanded closing between Daniel and Eleanor. Of course, you can't always get what you want! This particular point isn't a huge deal.
Would I Recommend It:
As far as historical romance novels go, this one isn't bad at all! I really liked the witty banter and chemistry between Daniel and Eleanor. And the feminism and progressiveness of the novel! Eva Leigh is definitely an up and coming historical romance writer to watch.
Rating:
4 stars. I will definitely be looking forward to reading the second novel in the series! Marwood is my favorite secondary character of this novel, so I can't wait to see him and his chosen opposing lady in action. Both are some of my favorites, such interesting characters!
January 10, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Eleanor Hawke has worked hard to build up her business, she runs a scandal rag and she is quite popular. But her latest victim of a scandal, Daniel Balfour, The Earl of Ashford is quite displeased. He marches into her office and makes demands but offers her a chance to get some juicy tidbits and see what his life is really like. So Eleanor takes him up on his offer. They go from gambling hells to races and a masquerade ball, there is so much more happening than she realized. But Daniel has his own secrets. He is searching for his best friend who has recently disappeared and to keep attention off of his friend, he wants the focus to be on himself while he goes out in the worst part of London to search for him. But Daniel never expected to fall for the one woman that seems wrong for him...but in the end is completely right. Will Daniel be able to trust Eleanor with his secret and prove that love really does conquer all?
Plot and Story Line
DANG.....Gorgeous!!! One of my favorite covers this year!! Normally I like more couple poses, but boy that dress with the face mask, the vivid colors, and the background, makes me want to get a time machine!!
Overall View
Forever Your Earl is an outstanding romance that enraptures from the first page...full of adventure, humor, passion, and sacrifice....it has it all!!! SIMPLY FANTASTIC!!
Summary
Eleanor Hawke has worked hard to build up her business, she runs a scandal rag and she is quite popular. But her latest victim of a scandal, Daniel Balfour, The Earl of Ashford is quite displeased. He marches into her office and makes demands but offers her a chance to get some juicy tidbits and see what his life is really like. So Eleanor takes him up on his offer. They go from gambling hells to races and a masquerade ball, there is so much more happening than she realized. But Daniel has his own secrets. He is searching for his best friend who has recently disappeared and to keep attention off of his friend, he wants the focus to be on himself while he goes out in the worst part of London to search for him. But Daniel never expected to fall for the one woman that seems wrong for him...but in the end is completely right. Will Daniel be able to trust Eleanor with his secret and prove that love really does conquer all?
Plot and Story Line
Wow, what a story this was, and boy was I surprised by this authors ability to completely draw me into a story. From the first page, I was hooked and I just couldn't get enough of these two. The bantering between them is quite energetic and with both Eleanor and Daniel being opinionated and equally stubborn, they definitely have some sparks flying in the air between them. We see two people that have easily underestimated each other. Forever Your Earl is the first of a series, and what a fantastic start. There were so many aspects that made this a winner for me. The first were the adventures around London and the surprises. Eleanor is a character that you really come to adore quite instantly, she is passionate, smart and quick witted. She has this way of endearing just about everyone to her. I love her easy to love personality. Now our hero is quite the Earl...but he is loyal and honorable and will do anything for friendship. I loved seeing these good parts of him come shining through. What was most interesting was seeing the way these two were engaged with each other. They have quite a bit of chemistry, and I just couldn't get enough of them. The love story is sweet and endearing with sparks of desire flying around them. What I loved most about this story, was how this author makes the era come alive for me. This is not your typical regency romance, it has zest and passion and a tone of playfulness to it. This is a story that made me realize why I fell in love with Regency years ago. There was so much cleverness, witty bantering, the characters development and transformations were pure delight, and a relationship that seemed to flow smoothly. These two just fit for each other in small unique ways. I want me some more and more of Eva Leigh!!
DANG.....Gorgeous!!! One of my favorite covers this year!! Normally I like more couple poses, but boy that dress with the face mask, the vivid colors, and the background, makes me want to get a time machine!!
Overall View
Forever Your Earl is an outstanding romance that enraptures from the first page...full of adventure, humor, passion, and sacrifice....it has it all!!! SIMPLY FANTASTIC!!
November 28, 2015
2.5 I so so so so so want to like this book, given its author is one of the few romance writers who (under her original name, Zoe Archer) openly identifies as a feminist. And because her heroine, Eleanor Hawke, is an independent woman who owns her own newspaper. But no matter how much I wanted to, I just could not warm to it. Because:
• The premise behind the novel—Daniel Balfour, Earl of Ashford, decides to offer himself as a subject to a scandal sheet writer, believing that by appearing in a scandal sheet on a regular basis he'll distract people from finding out about his search for his friend, the heir of a duke who has disappeared somewhere in London, and thus avoid a scandal for said friend—made no sense to me. Why couldn't the missing heir's family just say he was rusticating in the country? And since the scandal was his friend's, rather than his, why would Daniel worry about being followed himself?
• Even if I could overlook the lack of sense of the premise, there is no real goal or problem driving Eleanor in this plot, so I didn't feel very invested in her; she wasn't fighting for anything that I wanted to cheer her on in. Daniel's goal—to find his friend—didn't seem all that emotionally compelling, either.
• There is no real conflict keeping the two potential lovers apart, except for a class-based one (which, of course, falls to the wayside at novel's end for no apparent reason beyond the hero's willingness to break with tradition, and the heroine's willingness to overlook her previous scruples about cross-class alliances)
• Loved the fact that Eleanor is not only a writer, but a publisher. But the explanation for how she came to own her own paper & printing press is pretty glib ("I saved for it, and some friends lent me $"). With all the barbs she lobs about the treatment of women during her sparring with Daniel, she seemed remarkably untouched by any institutional or personal sexism herself
• The usual anachronisms common the genre are here, ones that make it easier for contemporary readers to feel comfortable in the past. But others, ones that just seem the result of carelessness (omnibuses? In 1816??) kept distracting me
• Daniel is supposed to be a rake, but, as is usual with current Regency romances, we never see much sign of his formerly rakish behavior, or how being such a rake impacts his current behavior.
• Eleanor gets really angry when Daniel suggests maybe she could do better than to write and publish gossip & scandal, so angry that she kicks him out. And then he has to apologize. This sounds more like a writer of romance in the 21st century justifying her decision than a writer of a scandal sheet in the early 19th.
• The two grow closer when Daniel admits he's jealous of Eleanor's passion for her work, that he feels "empty" because he's just a wastrel aristocrat. Totally ignoring the many responsibilities an aristocrat did have: serving in Parliament, running his estate(s), just to name two. I find this very American sense that work is only employment for pay very annoying.
• Knowing that once she's married, her property will be her husband's (unless there is some canny lawyerly dealing in the writing up of the marriage settlement) never comes up for discussion at book's end, when the two if course marry by special license.
:-(
• The premise behind the novel—Daniel Balfour, Earl of Ashford, decides to offer himself as a subject to a scandal sheet writer, believing that by appearing in a scandal sheet on a regular basis he'll distract people from finding out about his search for his friend, the heir of a duke who has disappeared somewhere in London, and thus avoid a scandal for said friend—made no sense to me. Why couldn't the missing heir's family just say he was rusticating in the country? And since the scandal was his friend's, rather than his, why would Daniel worry about being followed himself?
• Even if I could overlook the lack of sense of the premise, there is no real goal or problem driving Eleanor in this plot, so I didn't feel very invested in her; she wasn't fighting for anything that I wanted to cheer her on in. Daniel's goal—to find his friend—didn't seem all that emotionally compelling, either.
• There is no real conflict keeping the two potential lovers apart, except for a class-based one (which, of course, falls to the wayside at novel's end for no apparent reason beyond the hero's willingness to break with tradition, and the heroine's willingness to overlook her previous scruples about cross-class alliances)
• Loved the fact that Eleanor is not only a writer, but a publisher. But the explanation for how she came to own her own paper & printing press is pretty glib ("I saved for it, and some friends lent me $"). With all the barbs she lobs about the treatment of women during her sparring with Daniel, she seemed remarkably untouched by any institutional or personal sexism herself
• The usual anachronisms common the genre are here, ones that make it easier for contemporary readers to feel comfortable in the past. But others, ones that just seem the result of carelessness (omnibuses? In 1816??) kept distracting me
• Daniel is supposed to be a rake, but, as is usual with current Regency romances, we never see much sign of his formerly rakish behavior, or how being such a rake impacts his current behavior.
• Eleanor gets really angry when Daniel suggests maybe she could do better than to write and publish gossip & scandal, so angry that she kicks him out. And then he has to apologize. This sounds more like a writer of romance in the 21st century justifying her decision than a writer of a scandal sheet in the early 19th.
• The two grow closer when Daniel admits he's jealous of Eleanor's passion for her work, that he feels "empty" because he's just a wastrel aristocrat. Totally ignoring the many responsibilities an aristocrat did have: serving in Parliament, running his estate(s), just to name two. I find this very American sense that work is only employment for pay very annoying.
• Knowing that once she's married, her property will be her husband's (unless there is some canny lawyerly dealing in the writing up of the marriage settlement) never comes up for discussion at book's end, when the two if course marry by special license.
:-(
September 2, 2016
If I'd wanted to read a contemporary romance chock-full of contemporary issues (real and imaginary), I would have read a contemporary romance chock-full of contemporary issues (repetition deliberate).
It's like the author had this check list of the things people are bothered about today (or in the 1900s, I'll give you that) and proceeded to cross out one item at a time.
I can usually suspend my disbelief in romances, but not this much. The story supposedly takes place in the early 1800s! At one point of the story the hero's footman is carrying messages between them back and forth and that is written like they are on their phones. It's ridiculous.
And there are only so many times one can use the word privilege before it simply becomes noise. There was one time I thought the next words I'm going to read would be 'check it' or something similar.
I won't get into all the annoying details. If not for a couple of truly entertaining moments, the parts about war veterans, this would be a bigger chore to read. They are the only reasons why I'm not rating it 'I didn't like it'.
If it had to be a historical, it would have been better as a story set in the 1900s.
It's like the author had this check list of the things people are bothered about today (or in the 1900s, I'll give you that) and proceeded to cross out one item at a time.
I can usually suspend my disbelief in romances, but not this much. The story supposedly takes place in the early 1800s! At one point of the story the hero's footman is carrying messages between them back and forth and that is written like they are on their phones. It's ridiculous.
And there are only so many times one can use the word privilege before it simply becomes noise. There was one time I thought the next words I'm going to read would be 'check it' or something similar.
I won't get into all the annoying details. If not for a couple of truly entertaining moments, the parts about war veterans, this would be a bigger chore to read. They are the only reasons why I'm not rating it 'I didn't like it'.
If it had to be a historical, it would have been better as a story set in the 1900s.
September 30, 2015
Historical romance is one of my favorite genre of adult romance to read, but I have to admit that I'm very picky when it comes to them. Only certain authors work for me and I'm always a little wary to start series by new authors. Forever Your Earl intrigued me because the protagonist, Eleanor, is a writer. Considering the day and age that the book was set in, that was very much unconventional, and for me, refreshing. I ended up really enjoying this title and by the end, I was ready to read more by Eva Leigh. Like I mentioned, Eleanor was a fantastic main character. I really appreciated how smart, driven and thoughtful of a protagonist she was. Not to mention, she was comfortable with being a sexual individual and certainly not ashamed of it. This is very much unconventional in HR, where most often you will find prim and proper heroines who don't know what sex is all about. Daniel, the hero, was also a pleasant surprise. I grew to really enjoy his character throughout the book. He was going through a difficult time, searching for his friend, Christopher, and trying not to let Eleanor's gossip sheets find out about him. I loved the loyalty he clearly had towards his friend and even though Eleanor could have been a "threat" of a sort to him, he was nothing but absolutely respectful of her. Their growing romance was so well-written, with its slow progression and the banter the two of them engaged in. These were two delightful characters and they could not have been more perfect for each other. They did have some obstacles in the way like Daniel hiding about Christopher being missing and him being an Earl and her just a commoner, but they were not added for the sake of convoluted drama. The ending of Forever Your Earl was sweet and worked in every way for me. Historical romance fans will have much luck with Forever Your Earl. It's a sweet, smart and heartwarming romance and I promise you, by the end, you'll be clamoring for the next companion story!
July 28, 2020
In Forever Your Earl, newspaper proprietress Eleanor Hawke finds herself drawn into the world of renowned rake, Daniel Balfour, the Earl of Ashford. Her prosperous gossip paper, The Hawk’s Eye, loves to tell the tales of the life and scandals of the upper crust, and Daniel commonly makes appearances in the paper. Daniel, though, is not too pleased with this, and marches into her offices to speak with a Mr Hawke, and is astonished to discover Eleanor is the owner. He needs to keep the paper off his back, especially when they've gotten too close to home at times, and he is trying to protect the family of his missing best friend. So, Daniel invites Eleanor along to his various outings: gambling nights, races, masquerades, etc., and it soon becomes obvious that their attraction is more than they can overcome, and they need to decide whether an Earl and a commoner can be together, and face what comes at them, or stop their romance in it's tracks.
My first Eva Leigh book was Would I Lie to the Duke which I was approved to review, and as soon as I finished it, I went out and bought her entire back list. Her debut novel, Forever Your Earl was simply fantastic. The main character, Eleanor, had had a difficult childhood with an alcoholic father, and she had managed to educate herself, and use her intellect to write articles in the place of her father. Her journalistic prowess was so good, that she was even starting to get published under her own name, and when the chance to buy a struggling paper came up, she did so, and paid back all loans in just two years. She was an amazing person, so strong and caring, and even though we knew her and Daniel would get together, she fully deserved her happiness. Daniel, on the other hand, has a reputation all around town, and knows that by bigging up his 'rogue'-ness, he would be able to keep the journalists, and Eleanor especially, off the trail of searching for his missing friend, Jonathan, who was suffering from PTSD after the Napoleonic Wars, and fled his family. Daniel showed his caring side here, helping Jonathan's sister, Catherine, search, and ruining his own reputation further so that they didn't suffer. He and Eleanor were perfect for each other in every way, and the way they built each other up when they were struggling was beautiful! I think they are one of the best matched couples I had read in a historical romance, and everything about their love story was spot on. I'm so glad I've bought Eva's other books, because I'm reading them straight away!
My first Eva Leigh book was Would I Lie to the Duke which I was approved to review, and as soon as I finished it, I went out and bought her entire back list. Her debut novel, Forever Your Earl was simply fantastic. The main character, Eleanor, had had a difficult childhood with an alcoholic father, and she had managed to educate herself, and use her intellect to write articles in the place of her father. Her journalistic prowess was so good, that she was even starting to get published under her own name, and when the chance to buy a struggling paper came up, she did so, and paid back all loans in just two years. She was an amazing person, so strong and caring, and even though we knew her and Daniel would get together, she fully deserved her happiness. Daniel, on the other hand, has a reputation all around town, and knows that by bigging up his 'rogue'-ness, he would be able to keep the journalists, and Eleanor especially, off the trail of searching for his missing friend, Jonathan, who was suffering from PTSD after the Napoleonic Wars, and fled his family. Daniel showed his caring side here, helping Jonathan's sister, Catherine, search, and ruining his own reputation further so that they didn't suffer. He and Eleanor were perfect for each other in every way, and the way they built each other up when they were struggling was beautiful! I think they are one of the best matched couples I had read in a historical romance, and everything about their love story was spot on. I'm so glad I've bought Eva's other books, because I'm reading them straight away!
August 21, 2021
This was a fun historical romance. I loved the working-class heroine, she’s a writer and publisher, and the Earl hero. Some sexy limericks, great chemistry, and the heroine dressing as a man to go out and enjoy everything as the hero does. While not my fav by Eva Leigh, this was a fun debut.
November 6, 2015
I have mixed feelings about this book. The beginning was very hard to get into for me, because there was so much setting up the rest of the series that I sometimes felt the actual love story fell a bit short. The characters for the next book were also introduced (and sound very interesting), but it took a while for the story to capture me. Sadly, this only happened over the last few chapters. Those chapters where the hero and heroine finally get together are incredibly sweet and heartbreaking (and sometimes, as in the case of a spontaneous round of strip-dirty-limerick-inventing, really funny), but I also thought their main conflict was solved a bit too easily: I will continue with the series, as I thought there was a lot of potential here. It just didn't quite work for me.
May 26, 2016
4.5⭐
So good. Strong female. Scandal Takes the Stage, here I come. This is a rare occasion that I will almost immediately move to book 2.
So good. Strong female. Scandal Takes the Stage, here I come. This is a rare occasion that I will almost immediately move to book 2.
March 8, 2016
I'm not likely to pick up a new Regency these days unless there's something very different about it, and when I read the description of Forever Your Earl, it immediately went on my list. Of course I was drawn to a historical heroine who publishes her own newspaper!
Business is booming for Eleanor Hawke, thanks in no small part to the Earl of Ashford, whose society antics printed in her pages have readers clamoring for more. Some may dismiss The Hawk's Eye as rubbish, but Eleanor believes in giving the lower classes entertainment, and if exposing the vices and ugly side of upper society helps convince them to live a more moral life, then so much the better. But she never expects her paper's number one subject to storm into her office demanding to speak to the publisher, much less bearing a proposition she can't turn down.
Daniel Balfour is used to being the topic of conversation, but The Hawk's Eye manages to get too close to too many truths, including one he's desperately trying to keep out of the public spotlight. Expecting to be able to reason with a man of business, he is stunned to discover that publisher E. Hawke is actually a woman, and a sharp, no-nonsense, beautiful one at that. Forced to abruptly change tactics, he offers to give Eleanor the scoop of a lifetime by letting her chronicle his exploits firsthand. An exclusive series with London's most notorious rake will take her paper to the next level. And Daniel figures he'll be able to keep her so preoccupied with his after-dark activities that she won't have time to ferret out his secret.
But of course, things don't go quite as planned. While showing Eleanor the lifestyle of the rich and famous, he begins to realize how empty his pursuit of pleasure has been and how much he longs for a woman like Eleanor to share his life with. And Eleanor begins to see how much pressure a man like Daniel is under and that there is far more to him than she ever expected, but what is he still hiding from her? Can a privileged earl and a working-class woman come together to form a partnership the likes of which London has never before seen? Or will their differences and secrets prove to be too much to overcome?
This was my first experience with this author, who has more than a dozen novels under her belt as Zoe Archer, and I will definitely be reading more. It was so much fun to follow Daniel and Eleanor on their adventures. This story is filled with sparkling dialogue and wit, the characters are well developed and compelling, and the sexual tension sizzles. I only have one real complaint, but unfortunately it's an all-encompassing one, and that is that the book is overly wordy and heavy on inner monologues that grow repetitive. It bogs the story down, and I found myself skimming to get back to the action.
But I really enjoyed the story itself. Eleanor is a unique and engaging heroine. I'm not sure how plausible she is for the time period, but she sure is fun to read about. Though it's not all fun and games. The story does bring to light some of the failings and injustices lying beneath the wealthy, polished veneer of Regency high society, and Daniel does come to question many aspects of the disparity between the classes and what he can do to amend that. I loved the depiction of Eleanor's friendship with another female writer, and I adore the premise for this series, The Wicked Quills of London, which will each feature a woman who makes her living with her pen. I am very much looking forward to book two, Scandal Takes the Stage, which will feature two intriguing characters introduced in Forever Your Earl. A good start to a unique series!
*This review was originally posted to Romantic Historical Reviews
Business is booming for Eleanor Hawke, thanks in no small part to the Earl of Ashford, whose society antics printed in her pages have readers clamoring for more. Some may dismiss The Hawk's Eye as rubbish, but Eleanor believes in giving the lower classes entertainment, and if exposing the vices and ugly side of upper society helps convince them to live a more moral life, then so much the better. But she never expects her paper's number one subject to storm into her office demanding to speak to the publisher, much less bearing a proposition she can't turn down.
Daniel Balfour is used to being the topic of conversation, but The Hawk's Eye manages to get too close to too many truths, including one he's desperately trying to keep out of the public spotlight. Expecting to be able to reason with a man of business, he is stunned to discover that publisher E. Hawke is actually a woman, and a sharp, no-nonsense, beautiful one at that. Forced to abruptly change tactics, he offers to give Eleanor the scoop of a lifetime by letting her chronicle his exploits firsthand. An exclusive series with London's most notorious rake will take her paper to the next level. And Daniel figures he'll be able to keep her so preoccupied with his after-dark activities that she won't have time to ferret out his secret.
But of course, things don't go quite as planned. While showing Eleanor the lifestyle of the rich and famous, he begins to realize how empty his pursuit of pleasure has been and how much he longs for a woman like Eleanor to share his life with. And Eleanor begins to see how much pressure a man like Daniel is under and that there is far more to him than she ever expected, but what is he still hiding from her? Can a privileged earl and a working-class woman come together to form a partnership the likes of which London has never before seen? Or will their differences and secrets prove to be too much to overcome?
This was my first experience with this author, who has more than a dozen novels under her belt as Zoe Archer, and I will definitely be reading more. It was so much fun to follow Daniel and Eleanor on their adventures. This story is filled with sparkling dialogue and wit, the characters are well developed and compelling, and the sexual tension sizzles. I only have one real complaint, but unfortunately it's an all-encompassing one, and that is that the book is overly wordy and heavy on inner monologues that grow repetitive. It bogs the story down, and I found myself skimming to get back to the action.
But I really enjoyed the story itself. Eleanor is a unique and engaging heroine. I'm not sure how plausible she is for the time period, but she sure is fun to read about. Though it's not all fun and games. The story does bring to light some of the failings and injustices lying beneath the wealthy, polished veneer of Regency high society, and Daniel does come to question many aspects of the disparity between the classes and what he can do to amend that. I loved the depiction of Eleanor's friendship with another female writer, and I adore the premise for this series, The Wicked Quills of London, which will each feature a woman who makes her living with her pen. I am very much looking forward to book two, Scandal Takes the Stage, which will feature two intriguing characters introduced in Forever Your Earl. A good start to a unique series!
*This review was originally posted to Romantic Historical Reviews
March 17, 2017
I liked this one and I especially loved Eleanor. She was so confident and capable and took great pride in the life she built for herself through sheer hard work and perseverance. Daniel I found to be a little on the bland side but I loved how he came to respect what an incredible and accomplished person Eleanor actually was. Their banter, adventures in London and the witty prose were the highlights of the book. I also found the details about Eleanor’s newspaper business particularly interesting. However, Eleanor and Daniel’s actual romance fell a bit flat for me for some reason.
The fact that all the heroines of this series will be writers has me very excited for what Eva Leigh has planned for future books. I’m really looking forward to reading Maggie and Marwood’s story next.
The fact that all the heroines of this series will be writers has me very excited for what Eva Leigh has planned for future books. I’m really looking forward to reading Maggie and Marwood’s story next.
May 4, 2015
DRC provided by edelwiess and Avon.
The premise of the story was a little confusing from the beginning. The hero's motive never made sense to me on why he wanted the heroine to follow along. He could've done his investigation clandestine. Clearly a spy he was not. The heroine for this era was pretty independent. Educated, working woman, editor in charge, sexually active, pretty liberal for those days.
The story was well written but some oomph was missing which would've made me love it.
The premise of the story was a little confusing from the beginning. The hero's motive never made sense to me on why he wanted the heroine to follow along. He could've done his investigation clandestine. Clearly a spy he was not. The heroine for this era was pretty independent. Educated, working woman, editor in charge, sexually active, pretty liberal for those days.
The story was well written but some oomph was missing which would've made me love it.
September 18, 2020
This had a few slow spots, but was primarily a delightful read for me. I love banter and smart conversation, and this novel delivered on that.
I adored the heroine. Eleanor Hawke is intelligent and has carved out a niche for herself with her gossip pages. She is aware of her vulnerability due to her gender and class, but she has found a way for herself in the world. When Daniel Balfour, the Earl of Ashford invites her to witness and write about his exploits, she seizes the opportunity. She's smart enough not to take Ashford at face value, even if she doesn't guess at all his secrets and I loved watching these two take one another's measure.
Ashford has a wild reputation, but it's readily obvious that he has a moral code in addition to enjoying a good time. As Eleanor grows fonder of him, I could understand why. His worldview is different from her own, but he's not a bad man.
The subplot involving Ashford's use of Eleanor's coverage to hide his own attempts to find a missing friend while also averting a scandal for said friend wandered a bit much for me, and it didn't grab me quite as much as the rest of the story. Even so, this was an entertaining historical and having met the heroines of the other two books in the series, I'm eager to see their stories, too.
I adored the heroine. Eleanor Hawke is intelligent and has carved out a niche for herself with her gossip pages. She is aware of her vulnerability due to her gender and class, but she has found a way for herself in the world. When Daniel Balfour, the Earl of Ashford invites her to witness and write about his exploits, she seizes the opportunity. She's smart enough not to take Ashford at face value, even if she doesn't guess at all his secrets and I loved watching these two take one another's measure.
Ashford has a wild reputation, but it's readily obvious that he has a moral code in addition to enjoying a good time. As Eleanor grows fonder of him, I could understand why. His worldview is different from her own, but he's not a bad man.
The subplot involving Ashford's use of Eleanor's coverage to hide his own attempts to find a missing friend while also averting a scandal for said friend wandered a bit much for me, and it didn't grab me quite as much as the rest of the story. Even so, this was an entertaining historical and having met the heroines of the other two books in the series, I'm eager to see their stories, too.
December 9, 2019
Modern characters in a historical romance done right. Every once in a while, a vanilla Regency is sweet and funny enough to be memorable. I do have issues with it but even when it got predictable, I didn't mind because Leigh wrote some very strong scenes right out the gate.
Read this for the Lord Rakehell plotline. It is the best part of the story - so much fun! Eleanor, editor in chief of The Hawk’s Eye, a gossip rag, agrees to accompany Daniel on his nightly exploits so that she can get them right. Daniel does this only so that he can search for Jonathan, his missing veteran friend, undetected.
Eleanor memorably accompanies Daniel to a gaming den and a phaeton race. Also to a masquerade but the masquerade was not as much fun as the first two jaunts. The banter was good, and some moments reminded me of Suzanne Enoch at her finest, goofiest self:
“And your name shall be -“
“Maximus Sinclair,” she said.
“Ned Fribble,” he declared.
It’s very silly, which I enjoy, and I particularly liked how Daniel coached Eleanor to act like a man in the gaming den, and how phaeton races worked. I love the whole idea for this series, of women writers, and Leigh cleverly inserts her themes about feminism in the story. Eleanor dresses up as a man and there are observations about how women try not to take up too much space or apologize simply for being.
Another major theme is, there's nothing wrong with reading romances. The Hawk’s Eye is a clear stand-in for the genre. The major fight between Eleanor and Daniel is when Daniel asks Eleanor why she doesn’t want to write for The Times since her writing is good enough for it. He asks with the best of intentions, meaning to compliment her, but Eleanor is upset:
“I am exactly where I want to be, doing precisely what I want. I give people entertainment. With a dash of education. But if I can give them a taste of relief from their everyday lives, then I consider my efforts well spent.”
“He was just like the others. Trivializing what she toiled over. Thinking her somehow “better” than the thing she adored. As though she couldn’t judge for herself what deserved her focus and energy.”
However, it gets a bit awkward when Leigh talks about the need to “face the truth” when Eleanor and Daniel go to the slums to find Daniel’s friend. Daniel thinks about donating more to charities, more to assuage his guilt and convince himself he is a good person than anything else. Eleanor says she’ll write some articles about the living conditions but that’s really it. This scene could have been written better since it merely showed their privilege - throw some money and write some articles to broadcast their virtue.
This may be a good time to say I don’t enjoy the archetype of heroes that have no purpose in their lives.
Daniel, in his own words:
“Didn’t it trouble you? …As soon as you enter a room, you’re seen as the heir, or the title, but never… never as yourself.”
“Sometimes I wish for something more. Some greater purpose other than keeping the backbone of British society in place.”
Also, what other job do you want?! THE BACKBONE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT BONE! IT HOLDS EVERYTHING ELSE UP!!
Towards the end, things were quickly tied up, and it felt lazy:
1. Eleanor and Daniel find Jonathan but we never really hear from Jonathan why he ran away. It’s all conjecture by Daniel about why his friend ran away that was never confirmed. I still don’t really get why Jonathan left, but I guess we're all going along with what Daniel thinks as the truth. Essentially, PTSD. I would have liked to hear more from Jonathan and see that friendship. Especially when we know Daniel changes his whole personality/lifestyle around because he feels he failed his friend when he went missing and decided to go along with this convoluted Lord Rakehell masquerade so that he could continue to search for him.
2. Jonathan’s godfather didn’t want Daniel and Eleanor to be together but then he doesn’t do anything after they marry. He tells Eleanor that these marriages never last, and Eleanor decides to break things off. However, when Daniel realizes why Eleanor leaves, he wins her back. Jonathan’s godfather? Not a peep. Seems to be ok with it, for all that the reader hears from him.
While I have some issues with the story, the first half of it is fun. On the whole, I enjoyed what Leigh was doing, so I’ll probably read the rest of the series!
Read this for the Lord Rakehell plotline. It is the best part of the story - so much fun! Eleanor, editor in chief of The Hawk’s Eye, a gossip rag, agrees to accompany Daniel on his nightly exploits so that she can get them right. Daniel does this only so that he can search for Jonathan, his missing veteran friend, undetected.
Eleanor memorably accompanies Daniel to a gaming den and a phaeton race. Also to a masquerade but the masquerade was not as much fun as the first two jaunts. The banter was good, and some moments reminded me of Suzanne Enoch at her finest, goofiest self:
“And your name shall be -“
“Maximus Sinclair,” she said.
“Ned Fribble,” he declared.
It’s very silly, which I enjoy, and I particularly liked how Daniel coached Eleanor to act like a man in the gaming den, and how phaeton races worked. I love the whole idea for this series, of women writers, and Leigh cleverly inserts her themes about feminism in the story. Eleanor dresses up as a man and there are observations about how women try not to take up too much space or apologize simply for being.
Another major theme is, there's nothing wrong with reading romances. The Hawk’s Eye is a clear stand-in for the genre. The major fight between Eleanor and Daniel is when Daniel asks Eleanor why she doesn’t want to write for The Times since her writing is good enough for it. He asks with the best of intentions, meaning to compliment her, but Eleanor is upset:
“I am exactly where I want to be, doing precisely what I want. I give people entertainment. With a dash of education. But if I can give them a taste of relief from their everyday lives, then I consider my efforts well spent.”
“He was just like the others. Trivializing what she toiled over. Thinking her somehow “better” than the thing she adored. As though she couldn’t judge for herself what deserved her focus and energy.”
However, it gets a bit awkward when Leigh talks about the need to “face the truth” when Eleanor and Daniel go to the slums to find Daniel’s friend. Daniel thinks about donating more to charities, more to assuage his guilt and convince himself he is a good person than anything else. Eleanor says she’ll write some articles about the living conditions but that’s really it. This scene could have been written better since it merely showed their privilege - throw some money and write some articles to broadcast their virtue.
This may be a good time to say I don’t enjoy the archetype of heroes that have no purpose in their lives.
Daniel, in his own words:
“Didn’t it trouble you? …As soon as you enter a room, you’re seen as the heir, or the title, but never… never as yourself.”
“Sometimes I wish for something more. Some greater purpose other than keeping the backbone of British society in place.”
Also, what other job do you want?! THE BACKBONE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT BONE! IT HOLDS EVERYTHING ELSE UP!!
Towards the end, things were quickly tied up, and it felt lazy:
1. Eleanor and Daniel find Jonathan but we never really hear from Jonathan why he ran away. It’s all conjecture by Daniel about why his friend ran away that was never confirmed. I still don’t really get why Jonathan left, but I guess we're all going along with what Daniel thinks as the truth. Essentially, PTSD. I would have liked to hear more from Jonathan and see that friendship. Especially when we know Daniel changes his whole personality/lifestyle around because he feels he failed his friend when he went missing and decided to go along with this convoluted Lord Rakehell masquerade so that he could continue to search for him.
2. Jonathan’s godfather didn’t want Daniel and Eleanor to be together but then he doesn’t do anything after they marry. He tells Eleanor that these marriages never last, and Eleanor decides to break things off. However, when Daniel realizes why Eleanor leaves, he wins her back. Jonathan’s godfather? Not a peep. Seems to be ok with it, for all that the reader hears from him.
While I have some issues with the story, the first half of it is fun. On the whole, I enjoyed what Leigh was doing, so I’ll probably read the rest of the series!
December 19, 2017
19/12 - This was a very modern historical romance. The heroine, Eleanor, was living what amounts to a female bachelor's life - living alone in a boarding house, working as a newspaper editor, writer, and owner with multiple staff working under her (who apparently were not bothered by her gender), claiming to have no reputation thus could do pretty much whatever she wanted because it wouldn't change her social standing, and occasionally .
The hero, Daniel, Earl of Ashford has some backward (for our current era) ideas on what women can and should do, especially as relates to how Eleanor should conduct her newspaper. He's a rake who has a problem with Eleanor's paper constantly reporting on his whereabouts because it might jeopardise his search for an old friend who is suffering from PTSD (although, of course no one says that, the book's not that modern) after returning from war and because the family don't want his disappearance being spread around as it would ruin his sister's chances for a good marriage.
Daniel decides the best way to keep Eleanor from uncovering his search is to distract her by allowing her an insider's view into what he really gets up to as a rake of the first water. So he takes her to a gambling hell, a phaeton race, and a masquerade ball. The cover actually shows a woman with a resemblance to the heroine dressed in a gown similar to what Eleanor wears to the masquerade carrying a mask - must be the first cover in the last 50 that actually shows something that happens in the book (the only difference is the mask on the cover is hand held rather than tied on with ribbon)
Eleanor stands behind her decision to write about the goings on of the Ton because it provides a little light entertainment to the poor, downtrodden masses, but I couldn't get behind Eleanor's opinion on what could be compared to a gossip magazine. They may provide momentary entertainment to the public, but what about the damage they do to the lives of the people they're reporting on? I wonder how many famous couples can honestly say they enjoy all the attention the paparazzi gives them. And how many of those couples could point to magazine articles that created rifts in their relationship. For the quick laugh it may provide I don't think it's worth the negative consequences. And that's not even considering how many of the articles are pure rubbish created by a journalist reading too much into the way two people are standing in relation to each other and turning it into a scandal to be splashed across every front page in the country. Okay, rant about gossip magazines over.
I would read the next book in the series, Eleanor's best friend Maggie's and Daniel's best friend Viscount Marwood's book, but it's not one I would go to a lot of trouble to hunt down.
The hero, Daniel, Earl of Ashford has some backward (for our current era) ideas on what women can and should do, especially as relates to how Eleanor should conduct her newspaper. He's a rake who has a problem with Eleanor's paper constantly reporting on his whereabouts because it might jeopardise his search for an old friend who is suffering from PTSD (although, of course no one says that, the book's not that modern) after returning from war and because the family don't want his disappearance being spread around as it would ruin his sister's chances for a good marriage.
Daniel decides the best way to keep Eleanor from uncovering his search is to distract her by allowing her an insider's view into what he really gets up to as a rake of the first water. So he takes her to a gambling hell, a phaeton race, and a masquerade ball. The cover actually shows a woman with a resemblance to the heroine dressed in a gown similar to what Eleanor wears to the masquerade carrying a mask - must be the first cover in the last 50 that actually shows something that happens in the book (the only difference is the mask on the cover is hand held rather than tied on with ribbon)
Eleanor stands behind her decision to write about the goings on of the Ton because it provides a little light entertainment to the poor, downtrodden masses, but I couldn't get behind Eleanor's opinion on what could be compared to a gossip magazine. They may provide momentary entertainment to the public, but what about the damage they do to the lives of the people they're reporting on? I wonder how many famous couples can honestly say they enjoy all the attention the paparazzi gives them. And how many of those couples could point to magazine articles that created rifts in their relationship. For the quick laugh it may provide I don't think it's worth the negative consequences. And that's not even considering how many of the articles are pure rubbish created by a journalist reading too much into the way two people are standing in relation to each other and turning it into a scandal to be splashed across every front page in the country. Okay, rant about gossip magazines over.
I would read the next book in the series, Eleanor's best friend Maggie's and Daniel's best friend Viscount Marwood's book, but it's not one I would go to a lot of trouble to hunt down.
June 15, 2022
2019 rating: 4 stars
2020 rating: 4.5 stars
2022 rating: 3 stars
2020 review:
this is one of the rare times when i would actually give a higher rating to a book i re-read as by the time i re-read books, my expectations of a good book would have increased, resulting in a lower rating for the second read than the first read.
but this was an absolute joy to read! i felt Eva wrote Eleanor and Daniel really well because they had amazing chemistry. they were always bantering with one another and had really amusing conversations, one of which was the bollocks conversation which lasted really long. i have never ever read a book where the characters talked about bollocks for so long. that conversation had me laughing to myself and really amused me to no end.
the pacing was great; Eva did a great job at making Eleanor and Daniel bond as people, and yet did not let the searching of Jonathan compromise the romance between them. sometimes, authors tend to overwrite a supposedly side plot which becomes the main focus of the story instead of the romance which i dislike in historical romance books as i read mainly for the romance.
this book is a true gem. really am glad to re-read Eva's books since I've been reading some bad books recently due to the characters not having enough chemistry between them or the side plot overtaking the romance. 4.5 stars because i am a little upset that eleanor did not try to fight for hers and Daniel's relationship and that they tend to overthink a little too much. despite that, i'm looking forward to re-reading Eva's other books!
2022 review:
i think I've become very picky in my books as I have read so many more books since 2020, that i found this book was not as interesting as i thought it was in my first and second read.
this is one of those books that started off strong, but fizzled out towards the end. i honestly had mixed feelings about this book. the conversations between eleanor and daniel were good and bad. the good was how much i enjoyed their conversations about bollocks and being a man. the bad was me not caring much about eleanor's explanation of her writing/company and daniel's search for Jonathan. honestly, i could not find much about either of them to love. they were alright characters.
i didn't care about daniel searching for Jonathan. skimmed the whole bit about that.
i also skimmed the last 5 chapters of the book.
their romance was...alright? it wasn't bad but neither was it spectacular. i guess it lacked something. more banter, more chemistry would be nice.
an overall fine book to pass the time but i wouldn't re-read it as there were too many descriptions and inner thinking. wanted to see more action between eleanor and daniel instead of inner thinking.
2020 rating: 4.5 stars
2022 rating: 3 stars
2020 review:
this is one of the rare times when i would actually give a higher rating to a book i re-read as by the time i re-read books, my expectations of a good book would have increased, resulting in a lower rating for the second read than the first read.
but this was an absolute joy to read! i felt Eva wrote Eleanor and Daniel really well because they had amazing chemistry. they were always bantering with one another and had really amusing conversations, one of which was the bollocks conversation which lasted really long. i have never ever read a book where the characters talked about bollocks for so long. that conversation had me laughing to myself and really amused me to no end.
the pacing was great; Eva did a great job at making Eleanor and Daniel bond as people, and yet did not let the searching of Jonathan compromise the romance between them. sometimes, authors tend to overwrite a supposedly side plot which becomes the main focus of the story instead of the romance which i dislike in historical romance books as i read mainly for the romance.
this book is a true gem. really am glad to re-read Eva's books since I've been reading some bad books recently due to the characters not having enough chemistry between them or the side plot overtaking the romance. 4.5 stars because i am a little upset that eleanor did not try to fight for hers and Daniel's relationship and that they tend to overthink a little too much. despite that, i'm looking forward to re-reading Eva's other books!
2022 review:
i think I've become very picky in my books as I have read so many more books since 2020, that i found this book was not as interesting as i thought it was in my first and second read.
this is one of those books that started off strong, but fizzled out towards the end. i honestly had mixed feelings about this book. the conversations between eleanor and daniel were good and bad. the good was how much i enjoyed their conversations about bollocks and being a man. the bad was me not caring much about eleanor's explanation of her writing/company and daniel's search for Jonathan. honestly, i could not find much about either of them to love. they were alright characters.
i didn't care about daniel searching for Jonathan. skimmed the whole bit about that.
i also skimmed the last 5 chapters of the book.
their romance was...alright? it wasn't bad but neither was it spectacular. i guess it lacked something. more banter, more chemistry would be nice.
an overall fine book to pass the time but i wouldn't re-read it as there were too many descriptions and inner thinking. wanted to see more action between eleanor and daniel instead of inner thinking.
October 18, 2016
"He needs experience, don't you think, love?" Marwood drawled. "Take him upstairs and break him a little. My treat," he added, winking at Eleanor.
"Uh..." True panic gripped her. What was she supposed to do? There would be some very awkward explaining - and some bribes to pay - if Jenny discovered that Eleanor's manly goods were as false as Jenny's hair color.
Ashford reached out and plucked Jenny's hand from Eleanor's face. "Very generous of you, Marwood. But my aunt would never forgive me if I returned her son with a case of the French pox."
"That apple," Ashford said, "didn't fall close to the tree. In fact, it threw itself off the tree's branches, rolled down a hill, and straight into the nearest theater box, where it surrounded itself with a variety of strawberries of dubious repute."
A hilarious and sensual historical romance.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
not.
If I've read this before The India Fan, I would've probably given the latter 5 stars. Sure, this has some corny but amusing parts here and there, but the cons far outweighed the pros:
- Characters flatter than cardboard.
-Shoved-in-your-face third wave feminism. I believe a feminist novel can be written tastefully.
- Overuse of tropes which makes plot predictable and unexciting.
- Sex not hot enough to ignore all the weakpoints above.
1.2 stars
no-way-jose
December 8, 2022If only....If only this heroine wasn't written with such an over-the-top feminist, contemporary twist. She was a business owner of a scandal sheet. Which would have been ok, if the author had not also made her a heroine that has had several lovers. For me, in a historical romance, I can only imagine courtesans or mistresses of a lord to be the heroines that are not virgins and can brag of having had several lovers in and out of her life. It just had way too much of a modern day feel to it all around, and basically ruined the book for me. If the author had stuck to accurate historical scenarios, I can imagine that this story line would have been perfect for me.
August 16, 2017
4 Stars
I received an eARC of this book from Avon Publishing via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Forever Your Earl is the first book in the Wicked Quills of London series, written by Eva Leigh who I first discovered as Zoe Archer. The series focuses on female writers who live and work in Regency England. Eleanor Hawke, owner and editor of the popular scandal sheet, The Hawk's Eye, is the first heroine and her life gets complicated when she begins to tangle with the rakish earl who is her favorite gossip subject.
This book gets going when the Earl of Ashford visits the offices of The Hawk's Eye in order to talk with its owner. Imagine his surprise when the owner turns out to be the beautiful Eleanor Hawke! But, Ashford continues with his plan which is to have Eleanor follow him around and feature him in a column known as "To Ride with a Rake" in order to distract her from discovering a secret regarding one of his best friends. As they spend time together, they discover how much they like one another despite their class differences.
Eleanor and Ashford were such great characters! They come from very different backgrounds, but are both intelligent and mature. They each had a personal journey to go on and their love story helped enhance them. Eleanor has come from nothing to running The Hawk's Eye and thoroughly enjoys her independence. She also has some things to say about a woman's place in society.
Ashford comes from privilege, but understands that there are many people who do not and he sometimes feel guilty for not taking full advantage of what he has been given. He has never found a true cause to devote himself to and fills that void with the stereotypical rakish behavior. But, his relationship with Eleanor forces him to use his impressive brain and do some good with his fortune.
Eleanor and Ashford go on a variety of adventures such as phaeton racing, masquerade balls, and even a gambling hell. These moments allow them to interact in a very fun way. Eleanor gets to go undercover most of the time and the descriptions of them were really well-done. I especially enjoyed the details that were put into her male disguise. I thought it was such a creative way for an earl and a commoner to hang out together and fall more and more in love.
The only reason that I didn't rate Forever Your Earl higher is that I felt like the plot got away from the writer towards the middle. The subplot of why Ashford was letting Eleanor follow him around in the first place went away for awhile and then took over the book at the end. I really liked this side story and am hoping to see more of the resolution in other installments. And, of course, I am super excited that Ashford's best friend and Eleanor's best friend are the focus of the next book in the series.
Forever Your Earl is an entertaining and wickedly smart romance that I think showcases Eva Leigh's impeccable writing and character development. Eleanor and Ashford have some major obstacles to overcome and they do it a way that felt organic and satisfying. Can't wait for Scandal Takes the Stage now!
I received an eARC of this book from Avon Publishing via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Forever Your Earl is the first book in the Wicked Quills of London series, written by Eva Leigh who I first discovered as Zoe Archer. The series focuses on female writers who live and work in Regency England. Eleanor Hawke, owner and editor of the popular scandal sheet, The Hawk's Eye, is the first heroine and her life gets complicated when she begins to tangle with the rakish earl who is her favorite gossip subject.
This book gets going when the Earl of Ashford visits the offices of The Hawk's Eye in order to talk with its owner. Imagine his surprise when the owner turns out to be the beautiful Eleanor Hawke! But, Ashford continues with his plan which is to have Eleanor follow him around and feature him in a column known as "To Ride with a Rake" in order to distract her from discovering a secret regarding one of his best friends. As they spend time together, they discover how much they like one another despite their class differences.
Eleanor and Ashford were such great characters! They come from very different backgrounds, but are both intelligent and mature. They each had a personal journey to go on and their love story helped enhance them. Eleanor has come from nothing to running The Hawk's Eye and thoroughly enjoys her independence. She also has some things to say about a woman's place in society.
"I'm not much of an expert on refined female behavior, but even when I was a little girl, I was told not to run, not to swing my arms, or make my stride too big. That"--she gestured to the alley, indicating Daniel's performance from a moment ago--"it's the diametric opposite to the way women are taught to walk. We're told to take up as little space as possible. Not attract attention to ourselves. Not claim anything as our own."
Ashford comes from privilege, but understands that there are many people who do not and he sometimes feel guilty for not taking full advantage of what he has been given. He has never found a true cause to devote himself to and fills that void with the stereotypical rakish behavior. But, his relationship with Eleanor forces him to use his impressive brain and do some good with his fortune.
He'd thought he'd be the one in power here, but with only a few sentences, she'd stripped him entirely of that power. He felt oddly defenseless even though she was right. Outside of this alley, he was always in control, given the benefit of his gender, his class.
Eleanor and Ashford go on a variety of adventures such as phaeton racing, masquerade balls, and even a gambling hell. These moments allow them to interact in a very fun way. Eleanor gets to go undercover most of the time and the descriptions of them were really well-done. I especially enjoyed the details that were put into her male disguise. I thought it was such a creative way for an earl and a commoner to hang out together and fall more and more in love.
The only reason that I didn't rate Forever Your Earl higher is that I felt like the plot got away from the writer towards the middle. The subplot of why Ashford was letting Eleanor follow him around in the first place went away for awhile and then took over the book at the end. I really liked this side story and am hoping to see more of the resolution in other installments. And, of course, I am super excited that Ashford's best friend and Eleanor's best friend are the focus of the next book in the series.
Forever Your Earl is an entertaining and wickedly smart romance that I think showcases Eva Leigh's impeccable writing and character development. Eleanor and Ashford have some major obstacles to overcome and they do it a way that felt organic and satisfying. Can't wait for Scandal Takes the Stage now!
April 28, 2016
"She'd never spoken words like that to anyone. Always, always, she'd carefully sheltered her heart, knowing full well that this was a world of jagged edges that tore into unguarded flesh. So she'd contented herself with ambition for the newspaper, and occasional physical gratification, and told herself it was enough."
I loved Eleanor a lot. She was ridiculously, ridiculously witty, super take charge and bossy, but also very much allowed herself to be vulnerable. I think the natural instinct for a lot of characters who guard themselves fiercely is to continue guarding themselves even in the face of true love. But Eleanor was different. When the moment came to say how she felt, unlike most stories and most characters who would swallow their feelings and create more cause for angst, Eleanor said how she felt. I love angst, I think swallowing your feelings because you're afraid to be vulnerable is completely human and normal. But what's also wonderful is someone who allows themselves to be vulnerable and grab on to something beautiful, which is what Eleanor does. And that takes a lot of courage.
"You want to see me brought low? I am. I ask you, respectfully, humbly to tell me where she is. Because I find that without her..." He fought to find the words. "I'm only a shell. A glossy, brittle shell. I've got to tell her this. Whatever the consequences, she has to know."
I loved Daniel too. Daniel like Eleanor, allows himself to be vulnerable at the right time. He also owns up to his mistakes and is not afraid to swallow his pride when it matters with Eleanor. He is very alpha-like but I do think he is a true beta hero.
Anyway, I liked how supportive Daniel was of Eleanor, and how much he paid attention to her work, respected her for it and what she had achieved as Editor In chief and Founder of The Hawk's Eye. I liked that amazing scene where he confesses to Eleanor that she makes him seem small and unworthy after all that she had to go through and has accomplished. That kind of swallowing of pride, you don't get to see it often in male characters.
The romance I thought was very well paced and developed. As Eleanor and Daniel spent more and more time with each other, simple attraction grew to encompass admiration, respect and understanding, and ultimately love. Their encounters allowed them to learn really important things about each other. Eleanor's intelligence, tenacity and ambition, Daniel's kindness, generosity and courage. And the three excursions they had were thrilling and entertaining, and I loved the world Eva Leigh created, from the gaming hell to the imperial Theatre, to the phaeton racing to the amazing masquerade ball.
This book was pretty much a breeze to read because of its two flawed, three-dimensional but very likable leads, a really fun premise and a lovely romance. I'm very excited to read Maggie's book because she seems like another complicated character.
I loved Eleanor a lot. She was ridiculously, ridiculously witty, super take charge and bossy, but also very much allowed herself to be vulnerable. I think the natural instinct for a lot of characters who guard themselves fiercely is to continue guarding themselves even in the face of true love. But Eleanor was different. When the moment came to say how she felt, unlike most stories and most characters who would swallow their feelings and create more cause for angst, Eleanor said how she felt. I love angst, I think swallowing your feelings because you're afraid to be vulnerable is completely human and normal. But what's also wonderful is someone who allows themselves to be vulnerable and grab on to something beautiful, which is what Eleanor does. And that takes a lot of courage.
"You want to see me brought low? I am. I ask you, respectfully, humbly to tell me where she is. Because I find that without her..." He fought to find the words. "I'm only a shell. A glossy, brittle shell. I've got to tell her this. Whatever the consequences, she has to know."
I loved Daniel too. Daniel like Eleanor, allows himself to be vulnerable at the right time. He also owns up to his mistakes and is not afraid to swallow his pride when it matters with Eleanor. He is very alpha-like but I do think he is a true beta hero.
Anyway, I liked how supportive Daniel was of Eleanor, and how much he paid attention to her work, respected her for it and what she had achieved as Editor In chief and Founder of The Hawk's Eye. I liked that amazing scene where he confesses to Eleanor that she makes him seem small and unworthy after all that she had to go through and has accomplished. That kind of swallowing of pride, you don't get to see it often in male characters.
The romance I thought was very well paced and developed. As Eleanor and Daniel spent more and more time with each other, simple attraction grew to encompass admiration, respect and understanding, and ultimately love. Their encounters allowed them to learn really important things about each other. Eleanor's intelligence, tenacity and ambition, Daniel's kindness, generosity and courage. And the three excursions they had were thrilling and entertaining, and I loved the world Eva Leigh created, from the gaming hell to the imperial Theatre, to the phaeton racing to the amazing masquerade ball.
This book was pretty much a breeze to read because of its two flawed, three-dimensional but very likable leads, a really fun premise and a lovely romance. I'm very excited to read Maggie's book because she seems like another complicated character.
March 5, 2016
In the spirit of fairness, I think this one was just not for me. My most objective issue with it is that the writing style is really clunky. Bits of fact and historical flavour tended to fall flat--not helped by the almost preachy moments of contemporary views.
At first blush, the premise is Okay to Pretty Good. Eleanor Hawke is the proprietor of and also writes for the periodical The Hawk's Eye. She doesn't announce her gender, but also makes little effort to hide it. While she's at work, an earl walks in, pissed about inaccuracy in her scandal sheet. He suggest-demands that she join him in his revels so she can report his scandals correctly.
Okay.
Of course, he has a real reason, because that is honestly kind of dumb. The real reason is also not wonderful, but at least it pretends. It has to pretend for most of the book. He is searching for his missing friend, and he needs to cover the search with publicised rakish actions. There also seemed some specific reason that he wanted to divert Eleanor's attention from his true purpose, but that could have just been paranoia.
They have some fun banter, and they do have good chemistry... But there is this thing in books that I just hate: being told how to feel. A really good book invites you to feel. Others might manipulate you either masterfully or decently well and with permission. At about the mid-to two-thirds point, everything the hero or heroine said felt mawkish and overdramatic. ESPECIALLY when they were talking or thinking about love. It was like they were holding up big signs saying, "This is the part when you are in awe of the heroine's pluck!!" and I'm like, "No, I think this was an insanely stupid decision and I think she is going to die and deserve it."
So unfortunately, I found myself either grimacing or skimming for at least the last third.
At first blush, the premise is Okay to Pretty Good. Eleanor Hawke is the proprietor of and also writes for the periodical The Hawk's Eye. She doesn't announce her gender, but also makes little effort to hide it. While she's at work, an earl walks in, pissed about inaccuracy in her scandal sheet. He suggest-demands that she join him in his revels so she can report his scandals correctly.
Okay.
Of course, he has a real reason, because that is honestly kind of dumb. The real reason is also not wonderful, but at least it pretends. It has to pretend for most of the book. He is searching for his missing friend, and he needs to cover the search with publicised rakish actions. There also seemed some specific reason that he wanted to divert Eleanor's attention from his true purpose, but that could have just been paranoia.
They have some fun banter, and they do have good chemistry... But there is this thing in books that I just hate: being told how to feel. A really good book invites you to feel. Others might manipulate you either masterfully or decently well and with permission. At about the mid-to two-thirds point, everything the hero or heroine said felt mawkish and overdramatic. ESPECIALLY when they were talking or thinking about love. It was like they were holding up big signs saying, "This is the part when you are in awe of the heroine's pluck!!" and I'm like, "No, I think this was an insanely stupid decision and I think she is going to die and deserve it."
So unfortunately, I found myself either grimacing or skimming for at least the last third.
November 27, 2015
What to say about this book? It made for a pleasant read on this otherwise boring and lazy day, but it had its issues, not least that the dialogue and attitudes seemed very anachronistic, to the point where I found myself taken out of the story quite a few times. I also felt like the resolution of the two big plot points was somewhat rushed and too simplistic. I still enjoyed it fairly well in spite of all that, but I'm not in a big hurry to add the upcoming second book in the series to my to-read list.
Oh, and one more comment -- the author repeatedly used the word "lowly" in such an odd way. Almost every time someone said something quietly, it was phrased like: "I was going to say the same to you," she replied lowly. Or: "The impertinence is yours, madam," he answered lowly. There were close to 20 uses of "lowly" in that way, and it was so distracting. Is that a normal usage of the word "lowly"? Why wouldn't you just say someone whispered, or murmured, or said something quietly or in a hushed tone? Not to be nitpicky, but it really distracted me.
Oh, and one more comment -- the author repeatedly used the word "lowly" in such an odd way. Almost every time someone said something quietly, it was phrased like: "I was going to say the same to you," she replied lowly. Or: "The impertinence is yours, madam," he answered lowly. There were close to 20 uses of "lowly" in that way, and it was so distracting. Is that a normal usage of the word "lowly"? Why wouldn't you just say someone whispered, or murmured, or said something quietly or in a hushed tone? Not to be nitpicky, but it really distracted me.
October 5, 2015
This book didn't do much for me. It was well written, but I never really felt an emotional connection to the characters or felt part of the world. The mystery and why the hero needed the heroine's help was pretty confusing at first. Still, the characters in the second book sound interesting, so I will definitely give that one a try.
I'm no historian, but I had time believing that the heroine would be that "modern" (as the heroine put it) during the Regency era. I could buy it more during the Victorian era when I feel like things were actually starting to move toward change. Some of the mentalities expressed by her and the hero were too overtly 2015 rather than 1815. I usually have a high tolerance for that kind of thing, and actually appreciate it, but it bugged me in this book....maybe because it was so heavy handed.
I'm no historian, but I had time believing that the heroine would be that "modern" (as the heroine put it) during the Regency era. I could buy it more during the Victorian era when I feel like things were actually starting to move toward change. Some of the mentalities expressed by her and the hero were too overtly 2015 rather than 1815. I usually have a high tolerance for that kind of thing, and actually appreciate it, but it bugged me in this book....maybe because it was so heavy handed.
February 9, 2017
Great debut with plenty of limericks!
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