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The Last Earl
This is an alternate cover edition for B0182BBNFO
Willful, rich and beautiful, Lady Catherine Lytton believes she is in full control of her destiny when she inherits a large fortune from her uncle.
The return of a distant kinsman, Adrian Stowe, the Earl of Halford, is a welcome relief from the monotony of the English countryside.
Adrian is enigmatic and, some say, mad. But then, what man would escape the grisly murder of mother, father and brother unscathed? He is also the last of his line, and yet seems to have no interest in his title or his wealth -- and no inclination to find a wife.
In fact, he doesn't seem to do anything that is expected of him. Catherine hardly thinks that the Earl will inspire an uncontrollable passion in her. Above all, she cannot imagine that it will be unrequited.
As she follows him to Constantinople, trying to unveil the mystery that surrounds him, she will learn the meaning of love, even as she seems about to lose everything that is precious.
Willful, rich and beautiful, Lady Catherine Lytton believes she is in full control of her destiny when she inherits a large fortune from her uncle.
The return of a distant kinsman, Adrian Stowe, the Earl of Halford, is a welcome relief from the monotony of the English countryside.
Adrian is enigmatic and, some say, mad. But then, what man would escape the grisly murder of mother, father and brother unscathed? He is also the last of his line, and yet seems to have no interest in his title or his wealth -- and no inclination to find a wife.
In fact, he doesn't seem to do anything that is expected of him. Catherine hardly thinks that the Earl will inspire an uncontrollable passion in her. Above all, she cannot imagine that it will be unrequited.
As she follows him to Constantinople, trying to unveil the mystery that surrounds him, she will learn the meaning of love, even as she seems about to lose everything that is precious.
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March 12, 2017DNF
April 26, 2016
A Radiant Love Story.
I’ve read 4 books by Lara Blunte and I think she writes in a different way, in a way that’s almost poetic though not difficult to read. What I like the most is that she is one of the few authors out there who knows how to evoke emotion, in any genre she writes.
There are lots of light charming moments in this book as well, and humor, but above all it’s a really beautiful love story.
In that way it’s totally unlike most of the more formulaic historical romance novels out there. There is a quality to the writing that makes the books she writes hard to categorize.
I think all 4 books I read have that quality, and they are all to my mind really worth reading if you want something with more depth. I think Blunte may end up with a loyal following who appreciates better writing and more complex human stories, but I don’t know whether it will be mainstream.
I’ve read 4 books by Lara Blunte and I think she writes in a different way, in a way that’s almost poetic though not difficult to read. What I like the most is that she is one of the few authors out there who knows how to evoke emotion, in any genre she writes.
There are lots of light charming moments in this book as well, and humor, but above all it’s a really beautiful love story.
In that way it’s totally unlike most of the more formulaic historical romance novels out there. There is a quality to the writing that makes the books she writes hard to categorize.
I think all 4 books I read have that quality, and they are all to my mind really worth reading if you want something with more depth. I think Blunte may end up with a loyal following who appreciates better writing and more complex human stories, but I don’t know whether it will be mainstream.
December 13, 2015
Wow
This book took me by surprise. It is the most different Regency romance that I've read in a long time. I'm not going to recap the story. I'm sure I wasn't done that by now. I'm just going to say that this is a story worth reading. It's about loving however foolish that love may be. Real fearless love. I have to admit there were times early in Adrian and Catherine's relationship that I thought just forget about him! Have some pride! Go have your baby - pretend like you got married in your husband has died. As you can see I read way too many frivolous formulaic romance novels. As I was saying this is an out of the ordinary story about real true love. I am so glad that Ms. Blunte shared it with us. Thank you.
This book took me by surprise. It is the most different Regency romance that I've read in a long time. I'm not going to recap the story. I'm sure I wasn't done that by now. I'm just going to say that this is a story worth reading. It's about loving however foolish that love may be. Real fearless love. I have to admit there were times early in Adrian and Catherine's relationship that I thought just forget about him! Have some pride! Go have your baby - pretend like you got married in your husband has died. As you can see I read way too many frivolous formulaic romance novels. As I was saying this is an out of the ordinary story about real true love. I am so glad that Ms. Blunte shared it with us. Thank you.
June 14, 2016
Wonderful!
This is the first book I've had the pleasure to read by this author. After finishing this book, I definitely plan to read more by Blunte.
Lara Blunte has a very distinctive writing style. At first it seemed a little choppy, but as I read on I got into the flow a b d rather enjoyed the nuances of her style. She gets to the point without losing the beauty of the story in the least.
This is a very different romance from start to finish...I never knew what to expect. The thought process of these main characters is very descriptive. The characters are well developed and interesting.
I truly liked this story. It's very different and emotional.
I would highly recommend it. It is a true love story.
This is the first book I've had the pleasure to read by this author. After finishing this book, I definitely plan to read more by Blunte.
Lara Blunte has a very distinctive writing style. At first it seemed a little choppy, but as I read on I got into the flow a b d rather enjoyed the nuances of her style. She gets to the point without losing the beauty of the story in the least.
This is a very different romance from start to finish...I never knew what to expect. The thought process of these main characters is very descriptive. The characters are well developed and interesting.
I truly liked this story. It's very different and emotional.
I would highly recommend it. It is a true love story.
February 6, 2017
Slow start, whiz-bang climax
This wonderful, enthralling story began so slowly that I wasn't sure I would continue to the end. In the first half of the book the author *tells* the story through omniscient narration rather than through dialog and action. This has always been a turn off for me. The good news is that in the last half, there is still a good deal of *telling,* but the pace, action, tension ratchet up substantially.
Bottom line: this book started slowly but ended in an often tense whirlwind of action and suspense. If you are patient through the first 40-50%, the payoff is worth it.
This wonderful, enthralling story began so slowly that I wasn't sure I would continue to the end. In the first half of the book the author *tells* the story through omniscient narration rather than through dialog and action. This has always been a turn off for me. The good news is that in the last half, there is still a good deal of *telling,* but the pace, action, tension ratchet up substantially.
Bottom line: this book started slowly but ended in an often tense whirlwind of action and suspense. If you are patient through the first 40-50%, the payoff is worth it.
August 7, 2017
I struggled with rating this book. I'm really somewhere around 4.5, but the book was solid overall. The writing was easy to follow and kept me moving ahead (read it all in a day) and I loved the different locations. Could picture myself there.
Adrian was hard to figure out at times. He had secrets. He was dark and brooding. Did he truly love Catherine or not? There were times in the book where I wasn't sure if he knew.
I never doubted Catherine's love for Adrian. She was willing to risk her family's reputation by carrying on an affair with him. Not that it mattered a great deal since she was already rich, but to turn against society took guts.
By the end, I thought this was a pretty epic love story. It was great, but I can't help but think Adrian should have been more honest about his past with Catherine. She should've entered into the relationship with open eyes. His reasons are credible and make for a great backstory, but his past puts her in danger.
Adrian was hard to figure out at times. He had secrets. He was dark and brooding. Did he truly love Catherine or not? There were times in the book where I wasn't sure if he knew.
I never doubted Catherine's love for Adrian. She was willing to risk her family's reputation by carrying on an affair with him. Not that it mattered a great deal since she was already rich, but to turn against society took guts.
By the end, I thought this was a pretty epic love story. It was great, but I can't help but think Adrian should have been more honest about his past with Catherine. She should've entered into the relationship with open eyes. His reasons are credible and make for a great backstory, but his past puts her in danger.
January 5, 2017
Great Read!
It's a different romance novel....very quickly draws you in and you can't wait to read the next chapter...page....then sorrow when it's finished and you have no more to read!
It's a different romance novel....very quickly draws you in and you can't wait to read the next chapter...page....then sorrow when it's finished and you have no more to read!
October 15, 2020
Different. Unexpected. Passionate. Dark. This book doesn't fit into normal categories and definitely surprises. At times you will dislike, then love the characters. It's a Victorian novel, but main characters refuse to follow the rules. Recommended.
April 1, 2018
Exceptional!
Very well written with complex characters and absorbing story!one. A can't put down novel of love and greed and jealousy.
Very well written with complex characters and absorbing story!one. A can't put down novel of love and greed and jealousy.
May 21, 2018
Brief text and dialogue. Exciting finish.
October 29, 2018
Loved this!
Set, love and longing, a few tragedies, all the components that lead up to a happy ending. My favorite kind of book
Set, love and longing, a few tragedies, all the components that lead up to a happy ending. My favorite kind of book
September 23, 2019
Great story
I enjoyed this love story, and the mysteries along the way. Beautifully written. My 1st book by this author. Thanks
I enjoyed this love story, and the mysteries along the way. Beautifully written. My 1st book by this author. Thanks
January 29, 2017
What happened to our heroine??
The beginning started out well with a strong character and a lady in control of her life. Things quickly go downhill from there and I really wondered if I should finish the book. She is such a spinless tearful thing. She does get a little spin at the end if the book and once overseas the book got interesting again. I was very cranky w how her character changes though. It was kind of 3 stories in one. The first part was okay, the middle horrible and the last part was interesting. Only read this book if u have a lot of patience!!!!
The beginning started out well with a strong character and a lady in control of her life. Things quickly go downhill from there and I really wondered if I should finish the book. She is such a spinless tearful thing. She does get a little spin at the end if the book and once overseas the book got interesting again. I was very cranky w how her character changes though. It was kind of 3 stories in one. The first part was okay, the middle horrible and the last part was interesting. Only read this book if u have a lot of patience!!!!
January 10, 2017
A good read. I would say it is more an historical love story than a romance. Sometimes "romance" means lots of steamy sex. This story had a good plot beyond the relationship between the two main characters and it portrayed the development of love between the two.Both characters - and the bad guy - were complex and interesting. Especially the bad guy. I recommend the book.
March 2, 2017
A swift-paced, passionate read!
From the moment I picked up this book, I was swept along on a glorious white-knuckled ride, like a dinghy on a storm-tossed sea, and enjoying every minute of it. I didn't get much sleep this week, but it was well worth it. I actually was so disappointed to see the story come to its deeply satisfying end that I turned to the beginning and read it again. I need to take an extended vacation so I can read everything else this author has ever written.
From the moment I picked up this book, I was swept along on a glorious white-knuckled ride, like a dinghy on a storm-tossed sea, and enjoying every minute of it. I didn't get much sleep this week, but it was well worth it. I actually was so disappointed to see the story come to its deeply satisfying end that I turned to the beginning and read it again. I need to take an extended vacation so I can read everything else this author has ever written.
February 12, 2017
‘The Last Earl’ by Lara Blunte is a historical romance novel set in Victorian times when Lady Catherine Lytton, a wealthy, headstrong, but captivating young woman meets a distant cousin, Adrian Stowe, the last Earl of Halford. Adrian’s family was murdered in a gruesome killing some years ago, and he returns a hero from battle in the Crimean war. Catherine engages in a tumultuous romance with Adrian, and he tells her that he can never marry her. Ironically, she finds out that she is pregnant, just as Adrian leaves for Constantinople, and Catherine follows in pursuit. I was intrigued by this story initially written in the omniscient point of view, and it is actually presented quite well. The characters from historical England were captivating, and I was mesmerized throughout the second half of the novel, which transports the reader through the streets of exotic Constantinople, also known Istanbul. As Catherine leaves England to follow her heart, she develops in maturity and worldliness as she overcomes terror and hardship.
September 13, 2016
This is the second of Blunte's books that I have read, the first being The Abyss, set in early 19th century Portugal and Brazil. Although the historical setting was interesting, the over the top emotions of both protagonists put me off. The setting of The Last Earl is post Crimean War England and exotic Constantinople. The impossibly wealthy and beautiful heroine, who is stubborn, selfish, and willful, falls in love with the enigmatic but also impossibly wealthy and handsome hero Adrian, who has a little more sense than she does. Once you get past the breathless romance, the story gets exciting, because Adrian is hunting the murderer who massacred his parents and brother years before. Blunte's writing does not flow smoothly, but the last half of the novel is worth the time--a really evil villain, kidnappings, opium addiction, fights, and a HEA.
November 9, 2016
Unusual and, at times, Traumatic Victorian Romance
This was my first by this author and I have to say it took me some time to get used to her style of writing. For much of the first half of the book, she “tells” the story through the omniscient point of view and then dashes in and out of the various characters’ minds. That and her free use of reflexive pronouns had me wondering just whose perspective I was being given. But I pressed on.
The story begins in 1856 as Lady Catherine Lytton returns from Paris to meet her distant cousin, Adrian Stowe, “the last” Earl of Halford. At the beginning, the author gave us so much backstory and so much family history with a plethora of names thrown in I had no idea who all these people were. It turns out that one night in the past, Adrian’s family was murdered by a former servant who then slit his wrists. Adrian discovered the bodies and, the next day, disappeared. Now, years later, he’s returned, a hero of the Crimean war.
Catherine throws herself, quite literally, at Adrian and becomes his lover. To me, she seemed spoiled, self-indulgent and a bit too aware of her beauty. Adrian takes what she offers and tells her he cannot marry her. (Why is not clear since when she becomes pregnant he offers to do just that.) Meanwhile, though this is the Victorian era and she is a young, unmarried woman of high birth, she frequently escapes her mother and those who are charged with her care to tryst with Adrian. And that is pretty much the first half of the book.
When Adrian leaves for Constantinople, hunting the man he thinks murdered his family—a man who is not, in fact, dead—Catherine follows. And the story picks up. Lots of action at this point contributes to an exciting second half although there are a few brutal moments that I will not describe. The writing is quite good at this point and you begin to see that these two people really do love each other.
The ending is exciting and rewarding.
This was my first by this author and I have to say it took me some time to get used to her style of writing. For much of the first half of the book, she “tells” the story through the omniscient point of view and then dashes in and out of the various characters’ minds. That and her free use of reflexive pronouns had me wondering just whose perspective I was being given. But I pressed on.
The story begins in 1856 as Lady Catherine Lytton returns from Paris to meet her distant cousin, Adrian Stowe, “the last” Earl of Halford. At the beginning, the author gave us so much backstory and so much family history with a plethora of names thrown in I had no idea who all these people were. It turns out that one night in the past, Adrian’s family was murdered by a former servant who then slit his wrists. Adrian discovered the bodies and, the next day, disappeared. Now, years later, he’s returned, a hero of the Crimean war.
Catherine throws herself, quite literally, at Adrian and becomes his lover. To me, she seemed spoiled, self-indulgent and a bit too aware of her beauty. Adrian takes what she offers and tells her he cannot marry her. (Why is not clear since when she becomes pregnant he offers to do just that.) Meanwhile, though this is the Victorian era and she is a young, unmarried woman of high birth, she frequently escapes her mother and those who are charged with her care to tryst with Adrian. And that is pretty much the first half of the book.
When Adrian leaves for Constantinople, hunting the man he thinks murdered his family—a man who is not, in fact, dead—Catherine follows. And the story picks up. Lots of action at this point contributes to an exciting second half although there are a few brutal moments that I will not describe. The writing is quite good at this point and you begin to see that these two people really do love each other.
The ending is exciting and rewarding.
January 4, 2016
I have read True Born and The Last earl. They were fantastic to say the least! The characters were strong and the author really displayed an eloquent flow and a wide diction of words. I laughed and cried throughout both of them. I have never written a review before but I have read these two books and plan on reading the third, This Hell of Mine an don't expect anything less than a wonderful read. I would definitely recommend these books to anyone who loves a great love story set in a different time. .
I have read True Born and The Last earl. They were fantastic to say the least! The characters were strong and the author really displayed an eloquent flow and a wide diction of words. I laughed and cried throughout both of them. I have never written a review before but I have read these two books and plan on reading the third, This Hell of Mine, and don't expect anything less than a wonderful read. I would definitely recommend these books to anyone who loves a great love story set in a different time.
I have read True Born and The Last earl. They were fantastic to say the least! The characters were strong and the author really displayed an eloquent flow and a wide diction of words. I laughed and cried throughout both of them. I have never written a review before but I have read these two books and plan on reading the third, This Hell of Mine, and don't expect anything less than a wonderful read. I would definitely recommend these books to anyone who loves a great love story set in a different time.
February 14, 2017
I loved this book
I could not put it down. I really enjoyed the characters. The story kept my attention. I look forward to more books by this author
I could not put it down. I really enjoyed the characters. The story kept my attention. I look forward to more books by this author
October 24, 2016
I just finished reading, "The Last Earl."
I admit that Regency is not my normal genre of choice, but now and then I buy one to relieve the tension of Mystery and Suspense, my usual stopping place. I am laughing, for "The Last Early," certainly didn't do THAT! What I found was a wonderful story of glorious passion, enduring love. with more mystery and suspense than I often fine from those wearing that label. Plus descriptions that brought life, emotions. settings to life, beautifully written. I found not only a wonderful story, but one far passing my expectations. The author writes lyrical descriptions that allow the reader to "see" the places, but also "feel" the emotions of the characters. Ah, the characters: Well-drawn. interesting, and a cut-above the usual Regency populations. I enjoyed/liked the main characters, despised the villain. I have become a FAN of Ms. Blunte. If you like exciting stories, I recommend this one.
I admit that Regency is not my normal genre of choice, but now and then I buy one to relieve the tension of Mystery and Suspense, my usual stopping place. I am laughing, for "The Last Early," certainly didn't do THAT! What I found was a wonderful story of glorious passion, enduring love. with more mystery and suspense than I often fine from those wearing that label. Plus descriptions that brought life, emotions. settings to life, beautifully written. I found not only a wonderful story, but one far passing my expectations. The author writes lyrical descriptions that allow the reader to "see" the places, but also "feel" the emotions of the characters. Ah, the characters: Well-drawn. interesting, and a cut-above the usual Regency populations. I enjoyed/liked the main characters, despised the villain. I have become a FAN of Ms. Blunte. If you like exciting stories, I recommend this one.
February 9, 2016
I gave this book 4 stars as it offered several things intrigue, romance mystery and even laughter. The only thing I disliked was near the end when both characters were questioning or in doubt of each other's feelings after having gone through so much. I would recommend this book to those who like historical romance , an independent heroine and mystery.
This book offers intrigue romance unusual love affair mystery and even laughter also independent heroine. I recommend it to those who also like historical romances. It also gave good descriptions of locations travelled and definitely kept my interest.
This book offers intrigue romance unusual love affair mystery and even laughter also independent heroine. I recommend it to those who also like historical romances. It also gave good descriptions of locations travelled and definitely kept my interest.
April 11, 2016
Different
I enjoyed the book, but gave it a 4star rating because there were a lot of things left unanswered. No mention of Kate's mother or her reaction to a grandchild. No mention of what happened to the kid who led her into the trap. What happened to Fatima. Did the two maids get on, why did the author say that Adian got what he wanted and was the last of his name? No further need for that when Edmund was gone. Why move to Italy instead of one of the many estates in England or France. No mention of how English society reacted to return of Adian and Kate. Wrap up didn't do it for me.
I enjoyed the book, but gave it a 4star rating because there were a lot of things left unanswered. No mention of Kate's mother or her reaction to a grandchild. No mention of what happened to the kid who led her into the trap. What happened to Fatima. Did the two maids get on, why did the author say that Adian got what he wanted and was the last of his name? No further need for that when Edmund was gone. Why move to Italy instead of one of the many estates in England or France. No mention of how English society reacted to return of Adian and Kate. Wrap up didn't do it for me.
February 10, 2016
I read this story in it's beginning stages on Wattpad and was impressed by how it had me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. I wasn't sure that I liked the heroine much at first, but she grew on me and was definitely a better woman for all her trials. Lara Blunte writes exceptionally well and always writes very compelling stories. For lovers of romance with suspenseful moments thrown in, I would highly recommend The Last Earl and any other books that she either has written, or will yet write.
April 3, 2016
Found this book on wattpad when i thought there weren't any good books written on the internet anymore, but here this was in all its glory staring at me. I didn't regret opening the pages nor could i stop reading when i started. This story takes you for a world ride through the life stories of two beautiful people, with their own demons to fight, conquer them in their own ways and yet together, becoming a whole....
April 12, 2016
This is more than a standard historical romance/fiction, with some gothic undertones. A well developed novel, with multi-dimensional characters with a deeper relationship than you normally read. Not perfect people, no perfect history... Loved that the story moved to Constantinople, Istanbul is my favorite city and I loved that dimension in this book. It was a great read. I'll look for more from this author.
March 21, 2017
Drama overload
It's a good plot, complex, and full of drama. It could be a 4 or even 5 star book for most ppl, unfortunately not to me. Maybe just my mood at the moment my emo not even moved even with the background story of H family. The story didn't touch me as other books. Also I preferred conflict between two main characters in my HR books to they're already together and try to survive the bad guy so they can live HEA.
It's a good plot, complex, and full of drama. It could be a 4 or even 5 star book for most ppl, unfortunately not to me. Maybe just my mood at the moment my emo not even moved even with the background story of H family. The story didn't touch me as other books. Also I preferred conflict between two main characters in my HR books to they're already together and try to survive the bad guy so they can live HEA.
March 17, 2016
One of the best love stories I have ever read
How delighted I am that I finally read a few reviews on this book and decided to give it a read! Oh my, I could not put this book down. I LOVED this book. Lara Blunte has truely crafted a heart wrenching, adventurous, amazing love story. Well done!
How delighted I am that I finally read a few reviews on this book and decided to give it a read! Oh my, I could not put this book down. I LOVED this book. Lara Blunte has truely crafted a heart wrenching, adventurous, amazing love story. Well done!
January 8, 2017
I started reading this story Saturday evening and before I knew it was 4 am Sunday morning...
Kate a strong young woman who had to grow up because her mom wasn't able to handle since she lost her husband..
Adrian stayed away lost in grief for many years looking for the killer
They met resist each other..then ... the adventure.. I say hang on ...Long road but the reward for them comes...
Kate a strong young woman who had to grow up because her mom wasn't able to handle since she lost her husband..
Adrian stayed away lost in grief for many years looking for the killer
They met resist each other..then ... the adventure.. I say hang on ...Long road but the reward for them comes...
January 12, 2017
I struggled through to Book II of this title and simply could not find it in me to bother with any more of it. There was no character development, the dialogue was pedestrian, and the story line jumped around like a rabbit. I'm sure some will think my rating and review unfair considering how little of it I read but it was really that bad. DNF.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews