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House of Haverstock #3
Countess by Coincidence
To extricate himself from financial difficulties, John Beauclerc, the Earl of Finchley, concocts a scheme to marry a stranger who's answered his advertisement. He'll show his grandmother! That lady’s withholding money until he can demonstrate more maturity and less scandalous behavior. At six and twenty, the last thing he wants is to settle down. He goes to the church at St. George's Hanover Square to wed Miss Margaret Ponsby of Windsor, send her on her way with £100, and continue to pursue wine, women and faro with his fun-seeking friends.
After the ceremony, he realizes he's married the wrong woman. Miss Margaret Ponsby of Windsor obviously thought the wedding was to occur at St. George's Chapel in Windsor. Lady Margaret Ponsby was at St. George's in London. How can he extricate himself from this wretched marriage—a marriage over which his grandmother is ecstatic?
If only Lady Margaret Ponsby weren't so shy. When the lanky young (though most disreputable) earl she's worshipped from afar for as long as she could remember asks her to move to the church's altar with him, she's powerless to decline. Even after a wedding ceremony begins, she still remains mute. She must be standing in for Lord Finchley's true bride. But once she realizes she really is married to Lord Finchley, she determines to do everything in her power to make this a dream marriage. Even if it means imitating her clever, talkative sister.
After the ceremony, he realizes he's married the wrong woman. Miss Margaret Ponsby of Windsor obviously thought the wedding was to occur at St. George's Chapel in Windsor. Lady Margaret Ponsby was at St. George's in London. How can he extricate himself from this wretched marriage—a marriage over which his grandmother is ecstatic?
If only Lady Margaret Ponsby weren't so shy. When the lanky young (though most disreputable) earl she's worshipped from afar for as long as she could remember asks her to move to the church's altar with him, she's powerless to decline. Even after a wedding ceremony begins, she still remains mute. She must be standing in for Lord Finchley's true bride. But once she realizes she really is married to Lord Finchley, she determines to do everything in her power to make this a dream marriage. Even if it means imitating her clever, talkative sister.
273 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2015
289 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Bolen
78 books1,665 followersSince being named Notable New Author for 1997, Cheryl Bolen has published more than 35 books with Kensington/Zebra, Harlequin, Love Inspired Historical, Montlake, and independently. She has broken into the top 5 on the New York Times and hit the USA Today bestseller list. Her 2005 One Golden Ring won Best Historical, Holt Medallion, and her 2011 My Lord Wicked was awarded Best Historical in the International Digital Awards, the same year her Christmas novella was chosen as Best Novella. Her books have been finalists for other awards, including the Daphne du Maurier, and have been translated into eight languages. She’s also been the number 1 bestselling historical romance author in Germany.
She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and English from the University of Texas and a master's degree from the University of Houston. Her favorite pursuits are reading diaries of dead English women, traveling to England, and watching the Texas Longhorns play football and basketball. She and her recently retired professor husband are the parents of two sons. One is an attorney, the other a journalist.
Website: www.CherylBolen.com
Blog: www.cherylsregencyramblings.wordpress.co
Facebook: http://fbl.ink/Facebook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 3, 2021
Another clever (not really!) mino scheme by a money-needing H thats goes spectacularly wrong (or right). He thinks to dupe his purse-strings-holding grandmother by marrying a Miss Margaret Ponsby, sight unseen and then send her off with a 100 guineas.
July 4, 2015
As its title would suggest, Cheryl Bolen’s latest Regency romance opens with wild coincidences and foolish behavior, all of which combine to throw the hero and heroine of Countess By Coincidence into that favorite entertaining (for the reader!) predicament, the Marriage of Convenience.
Margaret Ponsby, sister of the Duke of Aldridge (the hero of Bolen’s Duchess by Mistake) has harbored a girlish crush on John Beauclerc, the Earl of Finchley, for years, although she has never actually spoken to him. His grandmother is her neighbor, and she has watched him coming and going from her window. When she stops at a local church one morning and finds herself swept to the altar by the earl, she assumes she’s been recruited to act as bride in a proxy wedding.
Finch, as the earl is known to his friends, is a good-hearted rake who has concocted a ridiculous scheme to marry a stranger and pay her to go away, thus proving to his wealthy grandmother that he has matured enough to handle the money she has been too cautious to settle on him. (Finch’s grandmother, mind you, is far too intelligent to fall for this plot.)
Determined to make the best of her unexpected lot, Margaret persuades Finch to let her move in with him and take up her formal position as his countess (much to the bewilderment of her family) while he continues to lead a life of freedom with his trio of equally rakish friends. Margaret would love to have a proper marriage and family with Finch, but she tries to convince herself that she’ll settle for a home of her own and friendship with this oddly endearing (and very handsome) man.
Finch, meanwhile, has absolutely no use for a wife or marriage, or so he tells himself and his friends—over and over again. But Maggie would be such a perfect wife. If he wanted one. Which of course he doesn’t. Does he?
Countess By Coincidence is a sweet, heartwarming story of two people who are perfect for one another, if only they can see past the nature of their accidental relationship. The third installment in Bolen’s House of Haverstock series (which began with Lady By Chance) also continues the story of the home for war widows and orphans established by Margaret’s sister-in-law Elizabeth and provides happy endings for several supporting characters. If you love traditional Regency romance, you will certainly enjoy this series.
Margaret Ponsby, sister of the Duke of Aldridge (the hero of Bolen’s Duchess by Mistake) has harbored a girlish crush on John Beauclerc, the Earl of Finchley, for years, although she has never actually spoken to him. His grandmother is her neighbor, and she has watched him coming and going from her window. When she stops at a local church one morning and finds herself swept to the altar by the earl, she assumes she’s been recruited to act as bride in a proxy wedding.
Finch, as the earl is known to his friends, is a good-hearted rake who has concocted a ridiculous scheme to marry a stranger and pay her to go away, thus proving to his wealthy grandmother that he has matured enough to handle the money she has been too cautious to settle on him. (Finch’s grandmother, mind you, is far too intelligent to fall for this plot.)
Determined to make the best of her unexpected lot, Margaret persuades Finch to let her move in with him and take up her formal position as his countess (much to the bewilderment of her family) while he continues to lead a life of freedom with his trio of equally rakish friends. Margaret would love to have a proper marriage and family with Finch, but she tries to convince herself that she’ll settle for a home of her own and friendship with this oddly endearing (and very handsome) man.
Finch, meanwhile, has absolutely no use for a wife or marriage, or so he tells himself and his friends—over and over again. But Maggie would be such a perfect wife. If he wanted one. Which of course he doesn’t. Does he?
Countess By Coincidence is a sweet, heartwarming story of two people who are perfect for one another, if only they can see past the nature of their accidental relationship. The third installment in Bolen’s House of Haverstock series (which began with Lady By Chance) also continues the story of the home for war widows and orphans established by Margaret’s sister-in-law Elizabeth and provides happy endings for several supporting characters. If you love traditional Regency romance, you will certainly enjoy this series.
February 6, 2019
3.5 - Voto
.
" Quanto adorava essere una donna sposata! Anche solo andare in carrozza da sola con lui senza nemmeno uno chaperon in vista era puro piacere. Poteva fingere con se stessa che fossero davvero una coppia felice. E ora, poter fare tutte le scelte per una sua carrozza era eccitante, davvero una cosa che una sorella minore che aveva finito la scuola da tre anni non aveva di frequente l’opportunità di fare. Il costruttore di carrozze, riconoscendo i Finchley come persone di classe, si rivolse a loro con tutte le cortesie dovute al loro rango.
Quando fu chiamato via per un attimo, Margaret sussurrò a suo marito: “Ditemi, abbiamo abbastanza denaro per quella carrozza che ci ha appena mostrato?”
“Grazie alla vostra dote, sì. Vi prego, scegliete né più né meno di quello che vi piace.”
Dato che erano una famiglia di sole due persone, e lei si rendeva conto che in genere sarebbe stata da sola, non aveva bisogno di una carrozza tra le più grandi o di lusso. Inoltre, non era nella sua natura scegliere qualcosa che richiamasse l’attenzione su di lei. Preferiva una cosa modesta."
.
Due donne imparentate alla lontana ma di età molto differenti, due Chiese che si trovano in zone diverse, ma accumunate da un’unica strana coincidenza: portano lo stesso nome. Ed è in questo modo che, nella Chiesa di St. George a Londra, Lady Margaret Ponsby, figlia del precedente Duca di Aldridge, si trova davanti l’uomo che da anni le fa battere il cuore di nascosto, il nipote scapestrato dell’anziana Contessa di Finchley, che abita proprio di fronte alla casa della sua famiglia. E il bellissimo Conte sembra in procinto di sposarsi… con lei, credendola però la semplice Miss Margaret Ponsby, donna che ha accettato di sposarlo per denaro, e che lo sta invece aspettando nella cappella di St. George a Windsor. Ora, Margaret potrebbe fermare ogni cosa, se solo il Conte non fosse proprio l’uomo dei suoi sogni; se non credesse, in un primo momento, che lui l’abbia riconosciuta e pensi che lei si stia prestando, con la morte nel cuore, a un matrimonio per procura, e se non avesse un’incredibile timidezza che le blocca il respiro proprio quando avrebbe delle cose da dire. L’aver taciuto la sua identità e non aver chiesto spiegazioni, porta questi due giovani, diversi come il giorno e la notte, a ritrovarsi sposati, lei con la segreta speranza di riuscire col tempo a farlo innamorare, lui deciso a non rendere mai questo un vero e proprio matrimonio.
Non posso nascondere che, seppur molto originale, questo nuovo capitolo non mi abbia particolarmente entusiasmato. Il modo in cui i due protagonisti sono arrivati alle nozze è quantomeno artificioso e un po’ assurdo, specialmente l’accettazione di Margaret nell’andare all’altare senza fare la benché minima domanda. John è un uomo molto affascinante, ma pur verso la trentina, non ha ancora fatto nulla della sua vita, e sembra intenzionato a continuare così ancora a lungo; il suo unico parente in vita è la nonna che detiene un grandissimo patrimonio e che tiene ben stretti i cordoni della borsa. La nobildonna, per tutta la sua vita, ha dovuto combattere sia col marito che con il figlio, uomini privi di onore e grandi scialacquatori, e solo la previdenza di suo padre, che ha lasciato a lei il patrimonio, ha impedito che la casata cadesse in rovina. Il suo dolore più grande è di non essere riuscita a impedire che il marito influenzasse il loro unico figlio, rendendolo simile a lui. Ora le rimane solo quel nipote, in cui lei vede grandi possibilità e quell’onore che i precedenti Conti non hanno mai avuto.
Il nuovo Conte di Finchley, pur con i suoi tanti difetti, non mente mai ed è un uomo che mantiene sempre le sue promesse. Peccato però che usi il suo tempo per seguire gli amici alle corse e giocare a faro, senza impegnarsi in nessuna attività adatta al suo rango. Quando la nonna scopre chi è la donna che il nipote ha sposato ne è deliziata. Conosce Margaret e la sua famiglia ed è convinta che quella donna possa essere la chiave perché finalmente il nipote entri nel mondo degli adulti.
John, al contrario, rendendosi conto di aver sposato la Margaret sbagliata, vorrebbe trovare un modo per far annullare il matrimonio, ma la sua nuova moglie gli propone un patto che non può rifiutare. Continuare a fare la vita che ha sempre fatto e lasciare a lei lo status di donna sposata, che le permette una grande libertà e le consente di vivere come più le aggrada, rendendo il loro un matrimonio di facciata. L’unico ostacolo al piano sono le sorelle della sposa, che temono che lui la renda infelice, e il Duca di Aldridge, tutt’altro che felice di ritrovarsi come cognato un uomo conosciuto solo per le sue scandalose prodezze.
È un libro abbastanza particolare, fin quasi agli ultimi capitoli è tutto un lento avvicinarsi e conoscersi, non vi sono scene passionali se non nelle ultimissime pagine e, se questo da una parte lo rende meno romantico, lascia molto spazio ai personaggi secondari. Ne vedremo qualcuno in procinto di innamorarsi, altri che lo sono già e non se ne rendono contro e altri ancora che hanno bisogno di una spinta per dichiararsi. Oltre a questo, ritroveremo tutte le coppie dei libri precedenti e avremo modo di dare un’occhiata alle novità che li riguardano. Facciamo la conoscenza con gli amici del Conte, personaggi dalle personalità spumeggianti e ben tratteggiate, e tutto lascia presagire che li ritroveremo nel prossimo capitolo, che vedrà protagonista la sorella di Margaret.
Se la passione e i gesti teneri sono abbastanza latitanti, è comunque piacevole il modo in cui l’autrice riesce a farci percepire come il rapporto fra i due coniugi cresca e maturi, riuscendo comunque a rendere la storia interessante e godibile.
Non è il capitolo che preferisco, ma è sicuramente ben scritto e garantisce qualche ora di svago in compagnia di una donna timida ma molto determinata e un uomo che si rivelerà migliore di quanto lui stesso creda.
.
Lucia63 - per RFS
.
" Quanto adorava essere una donna sposata! Anche solo andare in carrozza da sola con lui senza nemmeno uno chaperon in vista era puro piacere. Poteva fingere con se stessa che fossero davvero una coppia felice. E ora, poter fare tutte le scelte per una sua carrozza era eccitante, davvero una cosa che una sorella minore che aveva finito la scuola da tre anni non aveva di frequente l’opportunità di fare. Il costruttore di carrozze, riconoscendo i Finchley come persone di classe, si rivolse a loro con tutte le cortesie dovute al loro rango.
Quando fu chiamato via per un attimo, Margaret sussurrò a suo marito: “Ditemi, abbiamo abbastanza denaro per quella carrozza che ci ha appena mostrato?”
“Grazie alla vostra dote, sì. Vi prego, scegliete né più né meno di quello che vi piace.”
Dato che erano una famiglia di sole due persone, e lei si rendeva conto che in genere sarebbe stata da sola, non aveva bisogno di una carrozza tra le più grandi o di lusso. Inoltre, non era nella sua natura scegliere qualcosa che richiamasse l’attenzione su di lei. Preferiva una cosa modesta."
.
Due donne imparentate alla lontana ma di età molto differenti, due Chiese che si trovano in zone diverse, ma accumunate da un’unica strana coincidenza: portano lo stesso nome. Ed è in questo modo che, nella Chiesa di St. George a Londra, Lady Margaret Ponsby, figlia del precedente Duca di Aldridge, si trova davanti l’uomo che da anni le fa battere il cuore di nascosto, il nipote scapestrato dell’anziana Contessa di Finchley, che abita proprio di fronte alla casa della sua famiglia. E il bellissimo Conte sembra in procinto di sposarsi… con lei, credendola però la semplice Miss Margaret Ponsby, donna che ha accettato di sposarlo per denaro, e che lo sta invece aspettando nella cappella di St. George a Windsor. Ora, Margaret potrebbe fermare ogni cosa, se solo il Conte non fosse proprio l’uomo dei suoi sogni; se non credesse, in un primo momento, che lui l’abbia riconosciuta e pensi che lei si stia prestando, con la morte nel cuore, a un matrimonio per procura, e se non avesse un’incredibile timidezza che le blocca il respiro proprio quando avrebbe delle cose da dire. L’aver taciuto la sua identità e non aver chiesto spiegazioni, porta questi due giovani, diversi come il giorno e la notte, a ritrovarsi sposati, lei con la segreta speranza di riuscire col tempo a farlo innamorare, lui deciso a non rendere mai questo un vero e proprio matrimonio.
Non posso nascondere che, seppur molto originale, questo nuovo capitolo non mi abbia particolarmente entusiasmato. Il modo in cui i due protagonisti sono arrivati alle nozze è quantomeno artificioso e un po’ assurdo, specialmente l’accettazione di Margaret nell’andare all’altare senza fare la benché minima domanda. John è un uomo molto affascinante, ma pur verso la trentina, non ha ancora fatto nulla della sua vita, e sembra intenzionato a continuare così ancora a lungo; il suo unico parente in vita è la nonna che detiene un grandissimo patrimonio e che tiene ben stretti i cordoni della borsa. La nobildonna, per tutta la sua vita, ha dovuto combattere sia col marito che con il figlio, uomini privi di onore e grandi scialacquatori, e solo la previdenza di suo padre, che ha lasciato a lei il patrimonio, ha impedito che la casata cadesse in rovina. Il suo dolore più grande è di non essere riuscita a impedire che il marito influenzasse il loro unico figlio, rendendolo simile a lui. Ora le rimane solo quel nipote, in cui lei vede grandi possibilità e quell’onore che i precedenti Conti non hanno mai avuto.
Il nuovo Conte di Finchley, pur con i suoi tanti difetti, non mente mai ed è un uomo che mantiene sempre le sue promesse. Peccato però che usi il suo tempo per seguire gli amici alle corse e giocare a faro, senza impegnarsi in nessuna attività adatta al suo rango. Quando la nonna scopre chi è la donna che il nipote ha sposato ne è deliziata. Conosce Margaret e la sua famiglia ed è convinta che quella donna possa essere la chiave perché finalmente il nipote entri nel mondo degli adulti.
John, al contrario, rendendosi conto di aver sposato la Margaret sbagliata, vorrebbe trovare un modo per far annullare il matrimonio, ma la sua nuova moglie gli propone un patto che non può rifiutare. Continuare a fare la vita che ha sempre fatto e lasciare a lei lo status di donna sposata, che le permette una grande libertà e le consente di vivere come più le aggrada, rendendo il loro un matrimonio di facciata. L’unico ostacolo al piano sono le sorelle della sposa, che temono che lui la renda infelice, e il Duca di Aldridge, tutt’altro che felice di ritrovarsi come cognato un uomo conosciuto solo per le sue scandalose prodezze.
È un libro abbastanza particolare, fin quasi agli ultimi capitoli è tutto un lento avvicinarsi e conoscersi, non vi sono scene passionali se non nelle ultimissime pagine e, se questo da una parte lo rende meno romantico, lascia molto spazio ai personaggi secondari. Ne vedremo qualcuno in procinto di innamorarsi, altri che lo sono già e non se ne rendono contro e altri ancora che hanno bisogno di una spinta per dichiararsi. Oltre a questo, ritroveremo tutte le coppie dei libri precedenti e avremo modo di dare un’occhiata alle novità che li riguardano. Facciamo la conoscenza con gli amici del Conte, personaggi dalle personalità spumeggianti e ben tratteggiate, e tutto lascia presagire che li ritroveremo nel prossimo capitolo, che vedrà protagonista la sorella di Margaret.
Se la passione e i gesti teneri sono abbastanza latitanti, è comunque piacevole il modo in cui l’autrice riesce a farci percepire come il rapporto fra i due coniugi cresca e maturi, riuscendo comunque a rendere la storia interessante e godibile.
Non è il capitolo che preferisco, ma è sicuramente ben scritto e garantisce qualche ora di svago in compagnia di una donna timida ma molto determinata e un uomo che si rivelerà migliore di quanto lui stesso creda.
.
Lucia63 - per RFS
December 16, 2018
Our heroine?
Don't really get her. Seems to be pretty shy around men but then at times she isn't. Don't get why she is so infatuated with a guy she has never met or really spoken to, a guy who has one of the worst reputations ever and who really is a rake and a gambler... I just don't get it... Does she really only care about his looks??
Also, she is way too complacent, never says what she actually wants and desires...
Our hero?
Well, didn't like him for quite some time. He doesn't plan to change his way of life just because of an inconvenient wife. He actually plans to have mistresses and to keep gambling and drinking... Pretty disappointing..
He is also pretty offensive at times and not the guy with the good heart his grandmere and wife seem to see.
I nearly stopped reading when it was hinted at that he was having an affair behind his wife's back...
But yeah I guess I kinda knew that at that point he was very reluctant to even touch her so I knew he wouldn't...
Still, somehow all in all, it took a bit too long for the hero to come round. Plus, they never really discuss what happened before. And our heroine is way too infatuated with this rogue who hardly ever shows his good side.
Don't really get her. Seems to be pretty shy around men but then at times she isn't. Don't get why she is so infatuated with a guy she has never met or really spoken to, a guy who has one of the worst reputations ever and who really is a rake and a gambler... I just don't get it... Does she really only care about his looks??
Also, she is way too complacent, never says what she actually wants and desires...
Our hero?
Well, didn't like him for quite some time. He doesn't plan to change his way of life just because of an inconvenient wife. He actually plans to have mistresses and to keep gambling and drinking... Pretty disappointing..
He is also pretty offensive at times and not the guy with the good heart his grandmere and wife seem to see.
I nearly stopped reading when it was hinted at that he was having an affair behind his wife's back...
But yeah I guess I kinda knew that at that point he was very reluctant to even touch her so I knew he wouldn't...
Still, somehow all in all, it took a bit too long for the hero to come round. Plus, they never really discuss what happened before. And our heroine is way too infatuated with this rogue who hardly ever shows his good side.
February 28, 2016
A delightful romance. I loved Lady Margaret & adored Lord Finchley (once he got over being an a**).
August 3, 2015
Countess by Coincidence by Cheryl Bolen
Book #3: House of Haverstock Series
Source: Author:
My Rating: 4/5 stars
My Review:
What do you do when you’re a rake who’s in debt up to your butt and can’t your hands on granny’s wealth until you prove you have matured? You do the most mature thing you can think of, put an ad in the paper for a bride in name only. Of course that’s what you do.
John Beauclerc hasn’t done a thing with his life since leaving school. Oh, to be sure has drunk himself into a stupor on many occasions, he has lost his shirt (and his horses and carriage) making bad bets, and he has certainly plowed more than a few fields, so to speak but he hasn’t done anything of significance or worth, ever. John certainly has no desire to change his ways but he is in desperate needs of his grandmother’s money and the only way to do that is to act responsibly, mature. When his marriage ad is answered, John proceeds to the church at the appointed date and time and takes a bride.
For as long as she can remember, Lady Margaret Ponsby has adored John Beauclerc. From her bedroom window she has admired his form and longed for the courage to talk to him, to become acquainted with him. Lady Margaret is more than aware of John’s reputation as a rake but she simply doesn’t care so when there is a huge case of mistaken identity (kind of!) and she becomes John Beauclerc’s wife, Margaret just can’t seem to be upset by her situation. Oh, and she is quite shy so putting an end to the ceremony or at least asking a few questions really wasn’t an option.
John makes it quite clear to Margaret that he has no intention of changing his ways and behaving a real and honorable husband should. Margaret, ever the clever and logical one assures John she is quite alright with his plans but if he is going to convince his grandmother of his newfound maturity, she had better move in with him. While John isn’t at all certain about having a roommate, Margaret’s plan does sound logical and he needs to look legitimate. In no time flat, Margaret moves in, sets up house, and becomes an indispensable ally and friend to her husband. Though Margaret would love to have a marriage in more than name only she knows forcing the issue will get her nowhere. Margaret is not just a logical and intelligent woman, she is also sweet and kind and genuinely likes John. As the days and weeks go by, Margaret discovers her husband is, at heart a rather decent man and if she is patient enough, he may eventually come around to her way of thinking.
The Bottom Line: There is nothing in the early part of this read to make the reader want to like John Beauclerc. Literally, his only redeeming quality is how kindly he treats his grandmother. Lady Margaret wasn’t the Margaret Ponsby John intended to marry but she is precisely the right woman for him. Without any sort of scheming or subterfuge, Margaret is able to tame the once-notorious rake and make a respectable man out of him. Margaret is the highlight of this read to be sure and as she grows more confident in her role as wife, friend, and eventual lover, she becomes even more delightful. Margaret’s general attitude and personality is instantly likeable and as she brings John around to behaving like a real human, even he becomes likeable. True to form, Bolen brings back characters from the previous two reads and sets the stage for the continuation of the series. In all, Countess by Coincidence is yet another fine addition to the House of Haverstock series.
Book #3: House of Haverstock Series
Source: Author:
My Rating: 4/5 stars
My Review:
What do you do when you’re a rake who’s in debt up to your butt and can’t your hands on granny’s wealth until you prove you have matured? You do the most mature thing you can think of, put an ad in the paper for a bride in name only. Of course that’s what you do.
John Beauclerc hasn’t done a thing with his life since leaving school. Oh, to be sure has drunk himself into a stupor on many occasions, he has lost his shirt (and his horses and carriage) making bad bets, and he has certainly plowed more than a few fields, so to speak but he hasn’t done anything of significance or worth, ever. John certainly has no desire to change his ways but he is in desperate needs of his grandmother’s money and the only way to do that is to act responsibly, mature. When his marriage ad is answered, John proceeds to the church at the appointed date and time and takes a bride.
For as long as she can remember, Lady Margaret Ponsby has adored John Beauclerc. From her bedroom window she has admired his form and longed for the courage to talk to him, to become acquainted with him. Lady Margaret is more than aware of John’s reputation as a rake but she simply doesn’t care so when there is a huge case of mistaken identity (kind of!) and she becomes John Beauclerc’s wife, Margaret just can’t seem to be upset by her situation. Oh, and she is quite shy so putting an end to the ceremony or at least asking a few questions really wasn’t an option.
John makes it quite clear to Margaret that he has no intention of changing his ways and behaving a real and honorable husband should. Margaret, ever the clever and logical one assures John she is quite alright with his plans but if he is going to convince his grandmother of his newfound maturity, she had better move in with him. While John isn’t at all certain about having a roommate, Margaret’s plan does sound logical and he needs to look legitimate. In no time flat, Margaret moves in, sets up house, and becomes an indispensable ally and friend to her husband. Though Margaret would love to have a marriage in more than name only she knows forcing the issue will get her nowhere. Margaret is not just a logical and intelligent woman, she is also sweet and kind and genuinely likes John. As the days and weeks go by, Margaret discovers her husband is, at heart a rather decent man and if she is patient enough, he may eventually come around to her way of thinking.
The Bottom Line: There is nothing in the early part of this read to make the reader want to like John Beauclerc. Literally, his only redeeming quality is how kindly he treats his grandmother. Lady Margaret wasn’t the Margaret Ponsby John intended to marry but she is precisely the right woman for him. Without any sort of scheming or subterfuge, Margaret is able to tame the once-notorious rake and make a respectable man out of him. Margaret is the highlight of this read to be sure and as she grows more confident in her role as wife, friend, and eventual lover, she becomes even more delightful. Margaret’s general attitude and personality is instantly likeable and as she brings John around to behaving like a real human, even he becomes likeable. True to form, Bolen brings back characters from the previous two reads and sets the stage for the continuation of the series. In all, Countess by Coincidence is yet another fine addition to the House of Haverstock series.
October 26, 2021
A great story
I love this author so much that as soon I see a book I haven't read yet I buy it. This one concerns a young lady who has been in love with a rake for years.
I love this author so much that as soon I see a book I haven't read yet I buy it. This one concerns a young lady who has been in love with a rake for years.
November 25, 2018
This romance had a cute premise. The hero is in debt and his grandmother won't forward some of his inheritance until he gets married. He puts an ad in the paper and then accidentally marries the heroine (don't ask but it was believable) by mistake because she has the same name. The story is about how he mends his ways and falls in love with his wife who has secretly loved him for years.
My 3 star rating was based on the idea that Cheryl Bolen is a good writer but she could not convince me to like the hero or his friends. They were not characters that I could root for (or for whom I could not root). Their casual use of actresses and prostitutes was cold-blooded and smacked of "boys will be boys" which grated to this 21st century reader. That being said, she has made me curious about the rest of the series and I will be keeping my eyes open for her next book.
(Having reread this paragraph a couple of times, it struck me that her hero was historically correct. That is why I'm raising this to 4 stars.)
My 3 star rating was based on the idea that Cheryl Bolen is a good writer but she could not convince me to like the hero or his friends. They were not characters that I could root for (or for whom I could not root). Their casual use of actresses and prostitutes was cold-blooded and smacked of "boys will be boys" which grated to this 21st century reader. That being said, she has made me curious about the rest of the series and I will be keeping my eyes open for her next book.
(Having reread this paragraph a couple of times, it struck me that her hero was historically correct. That is why I'm raising this to 4 stars.)
January 26, 2021
A sweet, quirky, sometimes unbelievable, sometimes heartbreaking, but ultimately heartwarming historical romance that will leave you smiling. As the title details, the story revolves around a coincidence that may be unlikely but is funny and a necessary plot device. I loved Margaret’s character even if I sometimes questioned her judgement. The object of her affections John, the Earl of Finchley, was harder to like at the outset of the story but Cheryl Bolen does an admirable job of giving him life from his perspective and maturing his character so that the reader is hoping for a happily ever after for the couple. This is the third book in a series and can be read as a stand alone but reading the previous books will help you to better understand the secondary characters. An easy romantic read.
December 13, 2024
Just Enough Coincidence to Believe
Thoroughly enjoyed Countess By Coincidence. Cheryl zbolen breaks the rules of literature by bringing her central figures together in an impossible set of circumstances, yet the absurdity of their joining is the very glue that binds the book together.
Good characters. Conflict without villians--we need that right now, thank God!
And the rake hero really is a rake, not just somebody ill spoken of in Polite Society, so his inevitable reformation doesn't seem to be a forgone conclusion.
Well written, thick with cultural details that enrich the storyline.
Highly recommend.
Thoroughly enjoyed Countess By Coincidence. Cheryl zbolen breaks the rules of literature by bringing her central figures together in an impossible set of circumstances, yet the absurdity of their joining is the very glue that binds the book together.
Good characters. Conflict without villians--we need that right now, thank God!
And the rake hero really is a rake, not just somebody ill spoken of in Polite Society, so his inevitable reformation doesn't seem to be a forgone conclusion.
Well written, thick with cultural details that enrich the storyline.
Highly recommend.
October 14, 2017
I loved this story with its constant possibility of a love either being consummated or not.
It brought tears to my eyes with the tenderness expressed by both of the main characters and I will admit to also laughing at their thoughts about each other and what they would like to do together.
I also loved the openness and zest for life of Caro, Maggie's younger sister and John's grandmother seemed to be a force to be reckoned with.
Altogether a well written, enjoyable and very entertaining story which I am happy to recommend.
It brought tears to my eyes with the tenderness expressed by both of the main characters and I will admit to also laughing at their thoughts about each other and what they would like to do together.
I also loved the openness and zest for life of Caro, Maggie's younger sister and John's grandmother seemed to be a force to be reckoned with.
Altogether a well written, enjoyable and very entertaining story which I am happy to recommend.
December 4, 2017
Lovely book!
I loved this book! I had already read some of the author’s other books, so I knew this one would be so great! It’s so nice to read a romance that does not get raunchy with explaining so much about the sex act. This author gives credit to the reader’s imagination for that! I find that I can imagine what’s going on so much better than reading a full description. Thank you Ms Bolen!!!
I loved this book! I had already read some of the author’s other books, so I knew this one would be so great! It’s so nice to read a romance that does not get raunchy with explaining so much about the sex act. This author gives credit to the reader’s imagination for that! I find that I can imagine what’s going on so much better than reading a full description. Thank you Ms Bolen!!!
November 25, 2017
Entertaining
As with all Cheryl Bolen's stories Countess by Coincidence will entertain you with love, laughs and tenderness between two people. Couples come together thinking never to find themselves in love, but we can read and feel love entering their lives and hearts. A warm and witty read.
As with all Cheryl Bolen's stories Countess by Coincidence will entertain you with love, laughs and tenderness between two people. Couples come together thinking never to find themselves in love, but we can read and feel love entering their lives and hearts. A warm and witty read.
February 9, 2020
Mistaken identity
What a coincidence that there is a Miss Margaret Ponsby and a Lady Margaret Ponsby. When Lord Finchley 's ad for a bride goes wrong, it turns out it just might be the right lady. A shy lady marries the only man she's ever wanted. If only he could love her In return. A sweet love story of a rake who changes his life for the woman he comes to love.
What a coincidence that there is a Miss Margaret Ponsby and a Lady Margaret Ponsby. When Lord Finchley 's ad for a bride goes wrong, it turns out it just might be the right lady. A shy lady marries the only man she's ever wanted. If only he could love her In return. A sweet love story of a rake who changes his life for the woman he comes to love.
November 29, 2024
It was OK, though the premise was quite far-fetched. It felt too long, and sometimes it was difficult to keep track of all the characters that come and go all the time. There were way too many secondary plots and the Earl and his friends didn’t make very nice heroes. And the heroes from previous installments of the series seemed kinda dull. So I won’t be reading anything else in the series.
November 10, 2016
Lovely story
Trent house continues to be a wonderful place for war widows and their children. And in the meantime the sisters are all finding their handsome true loves. Lovely story with lovely ending about Margaret and her one true love .
Trent house continues to be a wonderful place for war widows and their children. And in the meantime the sisters are all finding their handsome true loves. Lovely story with lovely ending about Margaret and her one true love .
March 25, 2017
Could be better
The premise is good. A marriage of convenience with one sided love, but it takes too long . The story drags on and on with the hero insisting in his mind that he hates the marriage.
And what with the excessive use of ( and sometimes awkward) "I own", "you own" and the word "bloody".
But still, it is a good, sweet read. I wish only the story had a bit more angst and depth.
The premise is good. A marriage of convenience with one sided love, but it takes too long . The story drags on and on with the hero insisting in his mind that he hates the marriage.
And what with the excessive use of ( and sometimes awkward) "I own", "you own" and the word "bloody".
But still, it is a good, sweet read. I wish only the story had a bit more angst and depth.
June 22, 2021
A quick read......
...... because I couldn't put the book down. It got off to a strange start where I momentarily questioned whether to read the book or not. I'm glad I did. It was a charming story about finding true love and happiness. So glad I finished it, truly enjoyable.
...... because I couldn't put the book down. It got off to a strange start where I momentarily questioned whether to read the book or not. I'm glad I did. It was a charming story about finding true love and happiness. So glad I finished it, truly enjoyable.
September 2, 2021
Absolutely Charming
It was a delight to read this well written Regency with interesting characters who change and grow.
There is also a very important underlying plot about the precarious situation of war widows and their children.
It was a delight to read this well written Regency with interesting characters who change and grow.
There is also a very important underlying plot about the precarious situation of war widows and their children.
September 3, 2021
What a Wonderful Travesty of Growth!
I have never laughed so much as I did at the characters in this book. Cheryl Bolen is a very talented writer and she spins a great deal of storyline. This is a must read that you just can't resist.
I have never laughed so much as I did at the characters in this book. Cheryl Bolen is a very talented writer and she spins a great deal of storyline. This is a must read that you just can't resist.
April 20, 2022
beware what you ask for!
An interesting story of how many messes a couple can make before they find happiness! Our hero and friends have always went along with Perry, leader but as out hero’s grandmother insists he wed and settles down, the fun begins. Stubborn meets stubborn!
An interesting story of how many messes a couple can make before they find happiness! Our hero and friends have always went along with Perry, leader but as out hero’s grandmother insists he wed and settles down, the fun begins. Stubborn meets stubborn!
November 17, 2017
Two women with the same name fated to cross paths.
Margaret had gone to church to pray. How had she come to be married to her secret heart's desire? Delicious reading...
Margaret had gone to church to pray. How had she come to be married to her secret heart's desire? Delicious reading...
February 10, 2018
Very good story of love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2018
Delightful
Reforming the rake is always a pleasure to read. Especially when it is done by the shy miss who has to step out of her own comfort zone to do so.
Reforming the rake is always a pleasure to read. Especially when it is done by the shy miss who has to step out of her own comfort zone to do so.
March 8, 2019
Tender persuasion
This is a subtle take on the reformation if a rake theme. It includes a number of Happy romances and an artful approach to sex.
This is a subtle take on the reformation if a rake theme. It includes a number of Happy romances and an artful approach to sex.
June 2, 2021
Loved this book!
This book was funny and yet very romantic. I thought how much time we waste not being open and honest with those we love. Great read!
This book was funny and yet very romantic. I thought how much time we waste not being open and honest with those we love. Great read!
June 16, 2021
It took me so long to finish this one but I kept coming back to it. I really enjoyed it. It was sweet and cute and the characters were great. Overall, It's a good read. Enjoy!
Want to read
November 20, 2022Kindle sales as bad for the TBRs 🤷♀️
August 3, 2025
Meh. Juvenile man ho's meet virtuous women who make them grow up. A soft 3.
July 7, 2015
The Countess of Coincidence is book three in the House of Haverstock series by the talented Cheryl Bolen.
It's a wonderful addition to the set and I love the way the characters in all three books are connected.
This is the story of Lady Margaret Ponsby, the daughter of an Earl. She's a shy young woman who has resigned herself to being a spinster after not being offered for after a few seasons since her 'coming out' into society.
It is also the story of the Earl of Finchley. He is what is known as a Rake, caring only about having fun with his friends and enjoying gambling, women, and wholly enveloping his freedom. The last thing he wants is to be married. His grandmother is most put out that he isn't ready to settle down and show some maturity, and when he goes to her for the umpteenth loan to pay some debts, for the first time ever she refuses him. She wants to see some sign of him changing his ways before she will be willing to give him more money to squander away.
Finch decides that the only way to prove that to his grandmother is to arrange a marriage in name only, but to keep that last fact a secret. A series of coincidences finds the Earl wedding the lovely Margaret Ponsby. From there in the book we find out if their marriage of convenience could possibly turn into a love match. Will the Earl realise that there is more to life than being a 'Rake', and will Lady Margaret finally find love with the man she has adored from afar for a very long time?
I really enjoyed reading this book. There were some fun light moments amongst some quite deep ones, and overall of course was the desire to carry on reading to find out if Finch finally comes to his senses and when that defining moment will be. Cheryl Bolen is the Queen of 'marriage of convenience' novels which makes every one a real delight to read. I fully recommend this book and indeed all of this author's books.
It's a wonderful addition to the set and I love the way the characters in all three books are connected.
This is the story of Lady Margaret Ponsby, the daughter of an Earl. She's a shy young woman who has resigned herself to being a spinster after not being offered for after a few seasons since her 'coming out' into society.
It is also the story of the Earl of Finchley. He is what is known as a Rake, caring only about having fun with his friends and enjoying gambling, women, and wholly enveloping his freedom. The last thing he wants is to be married. His grandmother is most put out that he isn't ready to settle down and show some maturity, and when he goes to her for the umpteenth loan to pay some debts, for the first time ever she refuses him. She wants to see some sign of him changing his ways before she will be willing to give him more money to squander away.
Finch decides that the only way to prove that to his grandmother is to arrange a marriage in name only, but to keep that last fact a secret. A series of coincidences finds the Earl wedding the lovely Margaret Ponsby. From there in the book we find out if their marriage of convenience could possibly turn into a love match. Will the Earl realise that there is more to life than being a 'Rake', and will Lady Margaret finally find love with the man she has adored from afar for a very long time?
I really enjoyed reading this book. There were some fun light moments amongst some quite deep ones, and overall of course was the desire to carry on reading to find out if Finch finally comes to his senses and when that defining moment will be. Cheryl Bolen is the Queen of 'marriage of convenience' novels which makes every one a real delight to read. I fully recommend this book and indeed all of this author's books.
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