The Reckless Love of an Heir

Marlow Intrigues #7

by Jane Lark

“You are reckless, proud, spoiled and everything I dislike!”

For Lord Henry Marlow, the future Earl of Barrington, life is for living before he accepts his duty. No wager is too risky or challenge too dangerous – until a racing injury forces the Barrington heir to return home and prepare for his destiny. But the one thing Henry will not do is bow to his parents’ wishes and propose to his childhood friend and neighbour, beautiful Alethea Forth. And he’ll not put up with her disapproving sister, Susan, either, no matter how much he enjoys their verbal sparring…

Kind-hearted, bookish Susan Forth has always thought Henry arrogant and self-centred, and has never hidden her dislike of the rogue! But this injured, vulnerable Henry reluctantly brings out her natural compassion, and a shocking desire for the man who is expected to marry her sister! A stolen kiss leads to a forbidden passion – and for the first time in her life, Susan knows what it’s like to be reckless – with a man who is finally learning to care.

But when tragedy strikes, their secret love is all that holds them together – and could tear their lives apart…

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Fiction, Historical Fiction

369 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 28, 2016

About the author

Jane is a writer of authentic, passionate and emotional Historical and New Adult Romance, and a Kindle top 25 bestselling author.

She began her first historical novel at sixteen, but a life full of adversity derailed her as she lives with the restrictions of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

When she finally completed a novel it was because she was determined not to reach forty still saying, I want to write.

Now Jane is writing a Regency series and contemporary, new adult, stories and she is thrilled to be giving her characters life in others' imaginations at last.

You might think that Jane was inspired to write by Jane Austen, especially as she lives near Bath in the United Kingdom, but you would be wrong. Jane's favourite author is Anya Seton, and the book which drew her into the bliss of falling into historical imagination was 'Katherine' a story crafted from reality.

Jane has drawn on this inspiration to discover other real-life love stories, reading memoirs and letters to capture elements of the past, and she uses them to create more realistic plots.

'Basically I love history and I am sucker for a love story. I love the feeling of falling in love; it's wonderful being able to do it time and time again in fiction.'

Jane is also a Chartered Member of the Institute of Personnel and Development in the United Kingdom, and uses this specialist understanding of people to bring her characters to life.

Reviews

[Romance Readers Retreat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was first exposed to romance novels through my aunt's historical romances many a moon ago and historical romances continue to my first book loves. I may not read them as often as I used to, but I still get excited about a great historical read. I'm partial to Regency romances which is how discovered Jane Lark a few years ago. When I saw she had a new book out I was chomping at the bit to read it.

The Reckless Love of an Heir is an emotional and angst filled historical read about Lord Henry Marlow and Susan Forth. Henry is having to return home and face his responsibility as heir and he is not happy about it. He is supposed to propose to Alethea his childhood friend and neighbor. She is beautiful and would make a perfect wife, but he finds himself transfixed by her sister Susan.

Susan is used to being passed over in favor to her sister. After all, Alethea is the pretty one, she is the smart nerdy one easily forgotten and ignored. That all changes when an injured Henry returns home. Susan has disliked him as long as she can remember. What use would she have for a rogue like him? Except she can't help the nurturing feelings his injuries bring out or how much she has verbally sparing with him Before they know it, dislike and disdain becomes appeal and attraction.

I very much enjoyed this story. I loved Susan and Henry's verbal sparing and their slow building attraction. The family drama and pitfalls were all very believable and even though they allowed themselves to get into some ethically murky waters, I felt for them throughout the story. The latter part of the book gets very emotional, but the ending was fulfilling.

[Rosemary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read/reviewed for Romance Readers Retreat Book Blog

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE RECKLESS LOVE OF AN HEIR by Jane Lark, continues the Marlow family and friends series. However, it can be read as a stand alone, many of the characters from the previous novels do re-appear. For instance, Henry is the son of Jane and Robert Marlowe from "THE PASSIONATE LOVE OF A RAKE" and Susan is the daughter of Lord and Lady Forth who were secondary characters in the series.

Lord Henry Marlow, the future Earl of Barrington, was meant to propose to Alethea the older sister of Alethea Forth, but is drawn to the younger sister, Susan. Who is bespectacled, intelligent and hides on the sidelines. Alethea, is the flirty one, selfish and a bit self - centered. Susan doesn't know her worth or her simple beauty.
Henry, is reckless, careless and not in the least way ready to propose, give up to his reckless ways or his care-free life in London. Until....he is seriously injured in a carriage race incident. He goes home to recuperate. Finally, he takes a serious look at his reckless life-style and sees Susan for herself, a unselfish, caring, and smart Lady. No one seems to see. He finally faces the fact, he doesn't particularly like Atethea, or her flirty ways and he does not intend to propose to her anytime soon. He falls slowly in love with Susan. But diaster and tragedy strikes the Marlow family.

Well written, fast paced with many twists and turns. The characters are flawed but likeable, with honest, real-life experiences and engaging. The storyline is unique, drama-filled, emotionally charged, and brilliantly written.

Filled with so much drama, tragedy, innuendos, passion, grief, emotions, very emotionally charged and an eye-opening Regency Romance. One moment of grief and a moment of passion, brings Susan and Henry's feelings to light. But will their families and Atethea come to accept and understand the consequences? Can Susan live with herself, with the betrayal she feels toward her older sister? Can Henry and Susan finally, amidst tragedy and grief find their HEA? Will love be able to overcome so much grief, and sadness, to find a HEA in the end? You must read "The Reckless Love of An Heir".

Ms. Lark is a masterful storyteller. One who draws her readers into the story and holds them in complete and utter awe. A definite tear-jerker, to me anyway. Strongly recommended! You will need tissues.
An enjoyable, emotionally charged Regency Romance!
Received for an honest review from Net Galley. However, all opinions and thoughts are my own.

Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot /Sizzling
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

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Another lovely historical romance from the Marlow saga, whilst this story lacks the hard hitting seedier view of Regency society of the other stories, it definitely has its serious side. Two sisters, two families’ expectations and an unexpected tragedy all make this story every bit as good as the others and thoroughly enjoyable.
For regular reader of this saga, like me, it’s interesting to find out what happens to the offspring of the original Marlow family members we have met. Henry is the son of Robert Earl of Barrington (The Passionate Love of a Rake) and is every bit as wild and reckless as his father. He faces a similar crisis of conscience as his father did and certainly becomes a son to be proud of.
Alethea and Susan are complete opposites and Susan is much easier to like than her sister; though she is not without her flaws, the most obvious being living in her sister’s shadow.
Fraught with dilemma but deeply emotional the perfectly pitched sensuality between the couple is their only hope of a future together.
‘The Reckless Love of an Heir’, is an easy yet often poignant read, the perfect escape for a couple of hours.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Jane Lark

[dove🤎 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this story. At first I wanted to shake Henry because he was the typical rake and womanizer, however he did change his ways when he felt in love with Susan and turned out to be a gentleman. I didn’t like Alethea either because she used her sister and never really care for her. I liked that Susan got her deserved happily ever after because she deserved it!

[Wendy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished this book on holiday and so sad it ended. Great story yet again, with palpable chemistry, brilliantly drawn characters and a wealth of emotion that gets straight to your heart. Such a storyteller, her bevy of lush historical romances are never a disappointment.

[Martha · Rating 2 out of 5]

From the Amazon review: A BRAND NEW wickedly witty Regency romance of scandal, temptation and slow-burn desire. Perfect for fans of Julia Quinn, Evie Dunmore and Bridgerton!

The fourth novel in the addictively passionate Regency romance series The Marlow Family Secrets, for fans of Beverley Watts, Eloisa James and Bridgerton. Perfect for readers who love STEAMY, SPICY historical and regency romance, opposites attract, wounded heroes, loveable rogues and enemies to lovers.

'The perfect escape.' 5-star reader review

'Well written and paced. Dare you not to cry... and then smile!' 5-star reader review

'Loved it.' 5-star reader review

'A beautiful story... It held me captivated till the end.' 5-star reader review

Praise for Jane Lark's historical romances:

'Beautifully descriptive, emotional and can I say, just plain delicious reading?' My Devastating Reads

'What a brilliant read!! Jane Lark has an incredible talent to draw the reader in from the first page... It's a display of raw emotion, drama and intimacy.' Cosmo Chicklitan

From the synopsis: For Lord Henry Marlow, the future Earl of Barrington, life is for living. No wager is too risky or challenge too dangerous – until a racing injury forces the Barrington heir to return home and fulfil his duty. But the one thing Henry will not do is bow to his parents’ wishes and propose to his childhood friend and neighbour, beautiful Alethea Forth. And he’ll not put up with her disapproving sister, Susan, either, no matter how much he enjoys their verbal sparring...

Independent, bookish Susan Forth has always thought Henry arrogant and self-centred, and has never hidden her dislike of the rogue! But this injured, vulnerable Henry reluctantly brings out her natural compassion, and a shocking desire for the man who is expected to marry her sister.

But when tragedy strikes, could their desires tear their lives apart?

I'll just leave you with this. I don't agree with *any* of these reviews. I skimmed about 1/3 of it because I just wanted to be *done* and was beginning to feel like I never would be. Glad other readers found it engaging though.

[HistoricalHussy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overlong, poorly paced, boring, with flat dialogue attempting to pass itself off as Repartee™️, and an insipid heroine trying to play the great martyr.

Almost DNF but I was having too much fun with the alternate novel being created in my head as I read.

[Lyre · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lost my passion in this series. Its dull and I couldn't finished it.

[N HF · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional

This Marlow book is a little different than the rest - it made me cry about 60% of the way in - I love books that really touch us.

[Denise Tocci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stayed up last nite to finish and I wanted more when the novel ended. Great characters, great story, highly recommend. Will investigate the rest of the series, have read 2 others

[Book Gannet · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

The Marlow family are back, and this time it’s the spoilt Henry who is about to meet his match, in an opposites attract, forbidden romance that ties itself up in so many knots of angst and possible betrayal that it was hard to see how this could ever be resolved. Yet, at the same time, it’s a steady moving romance between two people who have known each other all their lives, yet never before realised how perfect they would be together.

I liked Susan. She’s a little judgemental and quiet, but she has her reasons for seeing Henry in such a bad light. She loves her sister, even when Alethea seems to do little to deserve it, and she’s compassionate to wounded things. She’s capable and bookish and a lot more interesting than she lets on. It’s no wonder that Henry becomes intrigued by her, and in doing so wants to know more.

Henry is exceedingly spoilt though. He’s a pampered, oldest son whom everyone adores, even though he has done very little to earn such devotion. He has no interest in getting married, doesn’t care that he’s stringing Alethea along, and likewise doesn’t care that his growing feelings for Susan could prove exceedingly damaging to her place within her family. Yet despite all that, he is fun and mostly good natured, and once Susan starts pointing out his faults, he does start to rethink his selfish existence.

Still, it’s very difficult to see how this will all be resolved without something else happening. So, it does. I won’t go into details, but it was a believable way to change everything and turned this otherwise slow-moving but kind of sweet romance into something much more emotional. And that’s the thing about Jane Lark’s historicals, just when I’m settled into reading a fairly enjoyable, if a little dull, romance something comes along to kick me in the heart.

If I’m honest, though, I’m never going to be Henry’s biggest fan. I appreciated how he changed and grew in this book, but he does still have a way to go to fully reform. I also can’t help getting annoyed at the incorrect use of titles that still plague this series (Lord Henry, the earl’s heir? No! He would either have a courtesy title of viscount or baron, or he’d be the Honourable Mr Marlow, and his sisters would be ladies). The sheer weight of relatives on the Marlow side can be a bit overwhelming and confusing too. There are so many of them, and the men have very similar names, and even though I’ve read other books in the series, I still get a bit lost when trying to keep up with them all.

So it’s not perfect. Fans of the series will likely enjoy it, as we get plenty of glimpses of old characters, of both generations. Newcomers can likely muddle along well enough too, as long as you don’t get too invested in keeping Henry’s relations straight. On the whole, it’s an enjoyable read, with two unlikely people falling in love and struggling with their feelings under difficult circumstances. It’s enjoyable, emotional at times, and easy enough to read. If you’re looking for a historical romance that’s high on the angst and dilemma factor, then immerse yourself in the Marlow world and give this a try.

(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)

[Jeannie Zelos · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Reckless Love of an Heir,  Lark, Jane

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre:  Romance
 
I dip into historical romances sometimes as I enjoy reading about the past, the way people lived, the contrast to todays world. I’ve enjoyed a few of Jane’s novels and this sounded fun, a little drama along with a romance.

Its a gentle story, I enjoyed the way it played out, and the subtle drama that reflected so well the time period. I did find it hard to really get to know the characters, and to “feel” them but of course the time period means they kept the faces very bland, their emotions tucked away and that's reflected in this story. Makes it very time accurate but hard for me to understand how the characters feel.

I found Susan to be a bit judgemental at first, but she grew on me, and it was clear Alethea was the favoured sister, the one considered beautiful and she was very much indulged. In contrast poor Susan takes second place, and though she adores Alethea she’s very much dominated by her, even if it is done in a way that's not openly bullying, but subtle pushes and put downs.
I don’t get the feeling Alethea intends to be unkind, its just the way the family structure plays out, and they way the sisters take their allotted places.

Henry, yep, he was a typical lad-about-town at first and he and Susan are like oil and water, she thinks he’s reckless and selfish, he thinks she’s a prig and judgemental. In a way they are both right but when Henry is home injured and they get to know each other better a real attraction grows. Its slow, and gentle as reflects how Gentlemen and Ladies treated emotions and Love at that time.

Its a disaster though – he’s promised to her sister, a match made at birth and one both families have long accepted. They’ve been waiting for Henry to actually man up and get engaged, and he has been putting it off, living life up with his friends, enjoying life as a bachelor. Now though he can’t face losing Susan but she won’t let down her sister – what are they to do?

It works out well, very true the the actions of the Gentry in that period, but it lacked for me the appeal of some of Jane’s other historical stories. Its one of those that is a fun read, but forgettable, and not one I’d reread.

Stars: Three, a decent read but not one I’d reread.

ARC supplied by Netgalley and publisher 

[Amy Alvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this story!! I enjoyed watching Henry and Susan get to know the real person that the other was. They had known each other for most of their loves, but neither of them had taken the time to get to know the real person.

I will say the Lark had me laughing out loud and crying during different parts of this story. Crying while reading a historical romance doesn't happen to me often, but this one just tugged at my heartstrings! Definitely one that should be on your TBR pile!!

I didn't realize that this was book 7 in the series until I was done, although there were clues along the way. I definitely need to pick up the earlier books and read them pronto!!

Thanks go out to HarperCollins UK via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.

[Ira · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was again a book that I really enjoyed and that made me laugh and cry and grin and...well, you get what I mean.

When Lord Henry Marlow comes back to his parents estate to recuperate after a near fatal accent, Alethea is already waiting for him. And she is waiting for a proposal. Impatiently. Even though they have known each other since childhood and have been meant for each other since then, they are not officially betrothed, yet, and Henry doesn't really want to change this status.
While he slowly heals he gets to know Susan, Alethea's sister much better, whom she always took for granted and for whom he never really cared much as she always disaproved of him and everything he did. Susan has forever lived in her sister's shadow but somehow things start to change and for the first time Henry really sees her. And the more he really gets to know her, the more he falls for her. Hard. Now there's just the question if there could be a future for them as Althea still considers him hers.....

I really loved to see the change in both, the hero and the heroine. Henry, who becomes more aware of those around him and Susan who slowly steps out of her sister's shadow and blossoms. The characters are well developed and authentic, the side characters as well as the main characters. The story is interesting, well spun and well told. The moment I finished the book I looked for other books by Jane Lark so, well, I can definitely recommend this book..

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The Reckless Love Of An Heir' by Jane Lark is book seven in the "Marlow Intrigues" series. This is the story of Lord Henry Marlow, the future Earl of Barrington and Susan Forth. I have been jumping out and in of the series so for me this was a standalone book.
Henry has been fighting marriage and his duty to the family for a while...and getting away with it. Now though he has hurt himself and has to return home. Henry finds he still has no desire to marry Alethea Forth who he has been promised to. But her sister Susan has come forward to help hm during his injured time. This opens them up to get to know one another better and see that each isn't what the other thought they were. But there is still the sister that Susan has always been second too..will this be the time that changes?
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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[Rachel (Rae) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thoughts:

I loved the opening chapter of this book it had lovely descriptions of Henry's home Farnborough. Also detailed how he had come back after some time away. It was descriptive but without going over the top.

Henry was the perfect hero he progressed well as a character and become more and more likeable as time went on.

I immediately took to Susan she was a quiet person to start with. However that was mainly due to not being the centre of attention within her family. So she preferred standing in the background.

Both characters were well developed and the chemistry was built up over time which made the story all the more realistic.

The story was engaging and had plenty of emotion. There was also plenty of passion, romance and some sad parts. It definitely pulled at my heart strings!

Overall:

The Reckless Love of an Heir has a lovely passionate romance at it's heart!

Four and a half stars from me!

Thank you to HarperImpulse & Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth in the series of the Marlow family. Henry the oldest son of Robert is reckless. He was in a race now has come home to heal and this time he almost killed himself. Alethea who from birth has been going to marry Henry. Her sister, Susan has come with her to keep Henry company. He has a chance to talk to Susan and she tells him some of the thoughts she has had about him over the years. Henry really thinks about it and begins to change his way of thinking. He looks at his relationship with Alethea and realizes marrying and living together may not be a good idea. The story has a lot to do with looking at his feelings and Alethea's at what he sees from his side.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first time I have read this author and I was in for a pleasant surprise. I had read some reviews of her other books and a common remark was the stories had a "real" feel to them. I completely agree. The story was more than a romance. It was filled will heartfelt relationships beyond the two main characters. It wove in family dynamics, disappointments, tragedy and love. It was low on heat but high on sentiment. I will read more from Jane Lark.

[Kimberly Westrope · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this sweet and heart-wrenching story. Henry, Althea, and her sister, Susan, grew up together, as their families' properties adjoined each other.

As they grow older, Henry and Althea form a bond and both families expect them to marry. Bookish Susan avoids their company as much as possible. She and Henry often butt heads with one another.

In the midst of a family tragedy, many changes occur.

This story is very well-written, with endearing characters, and a story that unfolds beautifully, engaging the reader until the very end.

I would definitely read more from this author.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Responsibility isn't Lord Henry Marlow's first priority. Neither is marriage to Alethea Forth, a long ago assumption of his family and the Forth neighbors. He's not ready, yet. An accident leaves him injured and he must recuperate with his family. It gives him the opportunity to reacquaint himself with Alethea. Only it's not Alethea he's attracted to, but her sister Susan. Guilt for Susan loving Henry creates turmoil, but a tragedy brings a decision that can't be denied. Very descriptive sex.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too many characters introduced mid-story. I gather they are from previous books but I couldn't follow the relationships. Plus it seemed as if they were all named William or Robert. And then introducing Henry's cousin Harry, that was confusing for a bit. There were like 25 Marlowe siblings alone not counting cousins (well at the beginning).

[C bond · Rating 3 out of 5]

an ok read

[poppy · Rating 3 out of 5]

An ok read but not favorite by jane still worth reading if you like her books

[bridgi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars For historical romance lovers

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have read all the series, and this was a very sweet story.

[Cindy Leiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good.

[Bridget]

Wonderful book

[Lisa Swanepoel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jane Lark writes beautifully. Her writing is rich without being verbose. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Susan is wise and kind and draws out the best in Henry.