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How To #3
How to Bewilder a Lord
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, has shed his rakish ways in the hope of winning Lady Louisa Adair’s heart, but he’s not exactly a suitable match. He convinces her to help him find a family treasure by proposing a wager: if he finds the jewels, she must allow him to court her. But if she does, he has to reveal the secret he’s keeping from her...
Lady Louisa might be the most sought after lady on the marriage mart, but she values her independence and doesn’t want to give up her inheritance to marry. But as she spends more time with the charming earl, she begins to wonder if he’s worth the risk. That all changes when she’s confronted with the scandal from his past...
Lady Louisa might be the most sought after lady on the marriage mart, but she values her independence and doesn’t want to give up her inheritance to marry. But as she spends more time with the charming earl, she begins to wonder if he’s worth the risk. That all changes when she’s confronted with the scandal from his past...
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2017
16 people are currently reading
792 people want to read
About the author
Ally Broadfield
11 books213 followersAlly has worked as a horse trainer, director of marketing and development, freelance proofreader, and a children's librarian, among other things. None of them were as awesome as writing romance novels (though the librarian gig came closest). She lives in Texas and is convinced her house is shrinking, possibly because she shares it with three kids, five dogs, a cat, a rabbit, and assorted reptiles. Oh, and her husband.
Ally likes to curse in Russian because very few people know what she's saying, and spends most of what would be her spare time letting dogs in and out of the house and shuttling kids around. She has many stories in her head looking for an opportunity to escape onto paper. She writes historical romance set in Regency England and Imperial Russia.
You can find Ally on her website, Facebook, and Twitter, though she makes no claims of using any of them properly.
Ally likes to curse in Russian because very few people know what she's saying, and spends most of what would be her spare time letting dogs in and out of the house and shuttling kids around. She has many stories in her head looking for an opportunity to escape onto paper. She writes historical romance set in Regency England and Imperial Russia.
You can find Ally on her website, Facebook, and Twitter, though she makes no claims of using any of them properly.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 8, 2017
Book Review For: How to Bewilder a Lord by Ally Broadfield How to Bewilder a Lord by Ally Broadfield My rating: 5 of 5 stars How to Bewilder a Lord by Ally Broadfield is book Three in the "How To" series. This is the story of Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook and Lady Louisa Adair. I have read the other books in this series and you can read this book as a standalone but I think you will enjoy it more if you read the previous books. Louisa wants to inherit the family estate that she has grown to love since childhood. But to do so her father says that she would have to live their full time and he is unsure if she can handle the estate is would seem. Besides that, Louisa doesn't really seem to want to marry. Marrying would mean giving up her independence and her inheritance. Gavin would like to marry Louisa, but he had been a notorious rake. Which has affected the Duke's perception of him and would stop any relationship goals he has in mind. Gavin is in love with Louisa and is trying to clean up his act. Although, Louisa father the Duke of Boulstridge isn't so easy to convince. When he is given the chance to escort Louisa's sister in-law to the country along with Louisa he jumps at the chance. Gavin thinks now he will be with Louisa more to get that chance to marry her. But Gavin and Louisa come to a wager that who ever finds the rumor jewels that are hidden will win their bet. If Gavin wins then Louisa will allow him to court her and if she wins then Gavin must tell the secret he has been keeping from her. How To series:Series Order:Book #1 How to Beguile a DukeBook #2 How to Bewitch an EarlBook #3 How To Bewilder a Lord"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...... http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/ http://booklikes.com/bloghttps://roma...... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo... View all my reviews
June 9, 2017
A good read with good characters, a good plot, a good chase with a good scandal waiting to break free. The Earl of Thornbrook, Gavin, was more than what he used to be, a rake of the first order. He took his life and turned it around and he wanted Louisa to be the lady at his side to move forward with his life. To get her he came up with a wager that he was sure to win or was he. Gavin was interesting and a bit complicated. There was romance and a small mystery. There was a scandal and then there was a lady. Lady Louisa was most desired among the ton. And Gavin wanted her very much. Louisa wanted to maintain her freedom.
There was a good pace to this read with its scandal, mystery, good characters, wonderful banter, smooth flowing writing and more in between the lines and I wanted more of it. I will need to attain the other books of this series and re-read How to Bewilder a Lord.
There was a good pace to this read with its scandal, mystery, good characters, wonderful banter, smooth flowing writing and more in between the lines and I wanted more of it. I will need to attain the other books of this series and re-read How to Bewilder a Lord.
October 20, 2017
Louisa squeezed his hand and whispered in his ear,
“Stop acting so surprised.
It’s not as if you didn’t know what you were getting into when you married me.”
A truer statement had never been spoken.
Asking Louisa to marry him had been the easiest decision he’d ever made,
and he hadn’t regretted a single moment of it.
June 22, 2019
This was another cute story by Ally Broadfield. In the third book in the How To series, we follow Gavin and Louisa. Gavin has been in love with Louisa for awhile but Louisa fears that he hasn't outgrown his roguish ways. So she doesn't necessarily take Gavin seriously in his pursuit. When Gavin accompanies Louisa and her sister-in-law to their country home, he makes it his mission to convince Louisa that he his serious in his pursuit. While they are conversing one evening, they come up with an adventure to find missing jewels that Louisa's great-great grandmother has hidden. Love blossoms but there may be one thing standing in their way.....Louisa's father!! I liked Gavin and Louisa, they were good characters to follow, and I always love a small mystery/adventure thrown into the mix.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2017
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
I am feeling a bit wishy-washy about this review. I thought the writing was great, but the plot was just a bit too far fetched for me and it felt like it completely fell apart at the end. I really believe that this is one of those books that you have to read the entire series, in order, to really appreciate the characters. I have not read the first two books (although, I have them and will probably go back and read them) I have a feeling that if I read the prior books in the series, I would have been more understanding and accepting of Louisa's father in this book and perhaps his actions would have seemed reasonable to me. But since I haven't read them, I can only base my review on this book.
I found Gavin and Louisa to be likable characters - Louisa was a little too stubborn and single minded for my taste - but she wasn't without her own charms. Gavin was a great hero and I truly believed he loved Louisa, but he believes he is unworthy of her and doesn't seem like he is willing to stand up to her father.
In a nutshell - Louisa wants to inherit the estate she grew up on, it is unentailed and her father has promised it to her if she agrees to live on the estate full time. Which pretty much rules out the possibility of her ever getting married. An incident in her past has made her question her judgement and she wants to prove to her parents that she deserves the estate. She thinks if she can find some jewelry hidden away by an ancestor, it will prove to them that she is smart enough to take care of the estate. OK - I found this ridiculous - One - Her father is basically bribing her to remain unwed and alone FOREVER and she is all over that like white on rice, even though she has two younger brothers that would be better served by inheriting the estate. Two - I just didn't understand how finding the jewels would PROVE that she could manage the estate.
Gavin wants to marry Louisa - but because of an incident that happened when he was all of 15, her father doesn't trust him. Again - not buying this plotline. He was 15 and recently orphaned when he had a consensual affair with a maid while staying with Louisa's family. Her father kicked him out and banned him from the house, but the maid was just reassigned to the kitchen?? Seriously? And YEARS later her father still holds it against him and refuses to let him court Louisa?
Gavin ends up escorting Louisa and her sister in law Isa to the estate, because Isa is pregnant and is not doing well in London, but Edward (Louisa's brother) and the Duke (Louisa's father) can't leave London. He agrees to stay at the estate with the ladies until her family can return. Once they reach the estate, he figures he can win Louisa over and have her convince her father that he has changed and make him agree to court her. He suggests that they work together to find the lost jewels and they place a wager on the outcome - if he wins, she will let him court her, if she wins, he will tell her why her father kicked him out years ago.
The story moves along a good pace, but it just became contrived and rushed at the end.
I am planning on reading the previous books and if reading those gives me more insight into this book, I will revise my review. But as it stands now - this is a 2.5 star read - not bad, but by no means a keeper.
I am feeling a bit wishy-washy about this review. I thought the writing was great, but the plot was just a bit too far fetched for me and it felt like it completely fell apart at the end. I really believe that this is one of those books that you have to read the entire series, in order, to really appreciate the characters. I have not read the first two books (although, I have them and will probably go back and read them) I have a feeling that if I read the prior books in the series, I would have been more understanding and accepting of Louisa's father in this book and perhaps his actions would have seemed reasonable to me. But since I haven't read them, I can only base my review on this book.
I found Gavin and Louisa to be likable characters - Louisa was a little too stubborn and single minded for my taste - but she wasn't without her own charms. Gavin was a great hero and I truly believed he loved Louisa, but he believes he is unworthy of her and doesn't seem like he is willing to stand up to her father.
In a nutshell - Louisa wants to inherit the estate she grew up on, it is unentailed and her father has promised it to her if she agrees to live on the estate full time. Which pretty much rules out the possibility of her ever getting married. An incident in her past has made her question her judgement and she wants to prove to her parents that she deserves the estate. She thinks if she can find some jewelry hidden away by an ancestor, it will prove to them that she is smart enough to take care of the estate. OK - I found this ridiculous - One - Her father is basically bribing her to remain unwed and alone FOREVER and she is all over that like white on rice, even though she has two younger brothers that would be better served by inheriting the estate. Two - I just didn't understand how finding the jewels would PROVE that she could manage the estate.
Gavin wants to marry Louisa - but because of an incident that happened when he was all of 15, her father doesn't trust him. Again - not buying this plotline. He was 15 and recently orphaned when he had a consensual affair with a maid while staying with Louisa's family. Her father kicked him out and banned him from the house, but the maid was just reassigned to the kitchen?? Seriously? And YEARS later her father still holds it against him and refuses to let him court Louisa?
Gavin ends up escorting Louisa and her sister in law Isa to the estate, because Isa is pregnant and is not doing well in London, but Edward (Louisa's brother) and the Duke (Louisa's father) can't leave London. He agrees to stay at the estate with the ladies until her family can return. Once they reach the estate, he figures he can win Louisa over and have her convince her father that he has changed and make him agree to court her. He suggests that they work together to find the lost jewels and they place a wager on the outcome - if he wins, she will let him court her, if she wins, he will tell her why her father kicked him out years ago.
The story moves along a good pace, but it just became contrived and rushed at the end.
I am planning on reading the previous books and if reading those gives me more insight into this book, I will revise my review. But as it stands now - this is a 2.5 star read - not bad, but by no means a keeper.
June 5, 2017
Publisher's Description:
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, has shed his rakish ways in the hope of winning Lady Louisa Adair's heart, but he's not exactly a suitable match. He convinces her to help him find a family treasure by proposing a wager: if he finds the jewels, she must allow him to court her. But if she does, he has to reveal the secret he's keeping from her...
Lady Louisa might be the most sought after lady on the marriage mart, but she values her independence and doesn't want to give up her inheritance to marry. But as she spends more time with the charming earl, she begins to wonder if he's worth the risk. That all changes when she's confronted with the scandal from his past...
My Thoughts:
I'm in love with Ally Broadfield's writing style! It is humorous with delightful characters and a storyline that entrances.
This is the first book I have read in this series and although it is book #3 of the series and reads well as a standalone, it made me want to read the other two books that came before it.
I was totally hooked from chapter one and couldn't put this one aside for more than a short break. I was so taken that I purchased one of the other books before I was half through this one.
Since some of the characters in this book are also featured in the first two, I look forward to the read.
Gavin is hopelessly in love with Lady Louisa, his best friends sister. I say hopelessly because although she likes him, she has decided not to marry. The thing she wants most is to inherit her family home and to do so she is required to make it her primary residence. What man will agree to this stipulation?
After Gavin spots a necklace and earring set of prized pink diamonds in a portrait the two set off on a scavenger hunt for clues to their location. They happen to match a tiara which had been previously found.
A touch of humor, mystery and love thrown in for good measure make this book a wonderful read.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5 stars for the saucy, well developed storyline and the interesting and delightful characters. I gave it a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames. There is very little sexual interaction with only one physical encounter.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, has shed his rakish ways in the hope of winning Lady Louisa Adair's heart, but he's not exactly a suitable match. He convinces her to help him find a family treasure by proposing a wager: if he finds the jewels, she must allow him to court her. But if she does, he has to reveal the secret he's keeping from her...
Lady Louisa might be the most sought after lady on the marriage mart, but she values her independence and doesn't want to give up her inheritance to marry. But as she spends more time with the charming earl, she begins to wonder if he's worth the risk. That all changes when she's confronted with the scandal from his past...
My Thoughts:
I'm in love with Ally Broadfield's writing style! It is humorous with delightful characters and a storyline that entrances.
This is the first book I have read in this series and although it is book #3 of the series and reads well as a standalone, it made me want to read the other two books that came before it.
I was totally hooked from chapter one and couldn't put this one aside for more than a short break. I was so taken that I purchased one of the other books before I was half through this one.
Since some of the characters in this book are also featured in the first two, I look forward to the read.
Gavin is hopelessly in love with Lady Louisa, his best friends sister. I say hopelessly because although she likes him, she has decided not to marry. The thing she wants most is to inherit her family home and to do so she is required to make it her primary residence. What man will agree to this stipulation?
After Gavin spots a necklace and earring set of prized pink diamonds in a portrait the two set off on a scavenger hunt for clues to their location. They happen to match a tiara which had been previously found.
A touch of humor, mystery and love thrown in for good measure make this book a wonderful read.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5 stars for the saucy, well developed storyline and the interesting and delightful characters. I gave it a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames. There is very little sexual interaction with only one physical encounter.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
June 9, 2017
Lady Louisa Adair and Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook have known each other a long time and he is her brother’s best friend. Ms. Broadfield brings a new twist to the trope with the search for missing items and Gavin’s insight that Louisa sis a lovely paradox of wisdom and innocence. With the assistance of the strong women in Louisa’s family, their humor, personal insights and knowledge of love Louisa becomes aware that a true partner in life is worth the loss a bit of independence. She learns about a new kind of independence to be had when you love the right person.
What a smart, sweet, charming and well-crafted story! You are immediately on Gavin’s side wanting Louisa to realize they are meant to be together. He is willing to face down a very protective and formidable duke to prove a youthful indiscretion should be forgiven and he is worthy of Louisa. The searching for clues and for the missing items is a clever way to bring them together. Too often the character indecision makes you feel like you are watching a tennis match and you just want it to stop, not so with this story. We see the indecisions are peppered between clues, searching and secondary characters assisting with the HEA.
While this is the third book in this series, I did not feel lost having not read the previous books. This is a situation that will shortly be remedied. Ms. Broadfield gave just enough background information to bring your along for a wonderful ride. The conversations are snappy, smart and fast paced with just the right amount of flirting. Louisa’s mother, the Duchess, is fabulous and has a marvelous sense of humor and a personal power that had me cheering. I have heard wonderful things about Ms. Broadfield and can now join the ranks of her fans. Now I am off to catch up on the Adair family.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
What a smart, sweet, charming and well-crafted story! You are immediately on Gavin’s side wanting Louisa to realize they are meant to be together. He is willing to face down a very protective and formidable duke to prove a youthful indiscretion should be forgiven and he is worthy of Louisa. The searching for clues and for the missing items is a clever way to bring them together. Too often the character indecision makes you feel like you are watching a tennis match and you just want it to stop, not so with this story. We see the indecisions are peppered between clues, searching and secondary characters assisting with the HEA.
While this is the third book in this series, I did not feel lost having not read the previous books. This is a situation that will shortly be remedied. Ms. Broadfield gave just enough background information to bring your along for a wonderful ride. The conversations are snappy, smart and fast paced with just the right amount of flirting. Louisa’s mother, the Duchess, is fabulous and has a marvelous sense of humor and a personal power that had me cheering. I have heard wonderful things about Ms. Broadfield and can now join the ranks of her fans. Now I am off to catch up on the Adair family.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 13, 2017
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This novel was a good read. I enjoyed the batter between the two main characters and the issues they each needed to overcome. The plot flowed very well. This novel contains romance and mystery and realizing that people can change.
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, is in love with Lady Louisa Adair and has changed his rakish ways to earn her heart. Louisa likes Gavin, but knows his reputation and that he flirts with the ladies. She is cautious about giving her heart away and at one time did not have confidence in herself to make the right decisions.
When Gavin is asked to escort Louisa to Walsley, he knows this is his chance to prove to Louisa he is the only man for her. Louisa wants to know the Gavin that he does not show to society. She learns about his interests and talents and makes her begin to realize their is more to him than what he shows. When Gavin proposes a wager to find missing jewels, Louisa accepts. This adventure only brings them closer as they try to put the clues together from the journal to discover the location of the jewels. Louisa begins to fall in the love with Gavin and Gavin knows this is the only woman for him and he will do whatever it takes to make her his wife. But Louisa wants Walsley and any husband of hers would have to live there based on her father's terms for her to have the estate. This affects her blooming relationship with Gavin, since she believes she cannot have both.
However, Gavin has a secret from his past that he fears will push Louisa away from him forever. Will Louisa discover Gavin's secret or will he tell her and possibly risk losing her forever? Can Louisa see the person Gavin has become so he can be worthy of her? Will her desire for Walsley push her away from Gavin? Will looking for the jewels bring them together or will all these obstacles push them apart?
This novel was a good read. I enjoyed the batter between the two main characters and the issues they each needed to overcome. The plot flowed very well. This novel contains romance and mystery and realizing that people can change.
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, is in love with Lady Louisa Adair and has changed his rakish ways to earn her heart. Louisa likes Gavin, but knows his reputation and that he flirts with the ladies. She is cautious about giving her heart away and at one time did not have confidence in herself to make the right decisions.
When Gavin is asked to escort Louisa to Walsley, he knows this is his chance to prove to Louisa he is the only man for her. Louisa wants to know the Gavin that he does not show to society. She learns about his interests and talents and makes her begin to realize their is more to him than what he shows. When Gavin proposes a wager to find missing jewels, Louisa accepts. This adventure only brings them closer as they try to put the clues together from the journal to discover the location of the jewels. Louisa begins to fall in the love with Gavin and Gavin knows this is the only woman for him and he will do whatever it takes to make her his wife. But Louisa wants Walsley and any husband of hers would have to live there based on her father's terms for her to have the estate. This affects her blooming relationship with Gavin, since she believes she cannot have both.
However, Gavin has a secret from his past that he fears will push Louisa away from him forever. Will Louisa discover Gavin's secret or will he tell her and possibly risk losing her forever? Can Louisa see the person Gavin has become so he can be worthy of her? Will her desire for Walsley push her away from Gavin? Will looking for the jewels bring them together or will all these obstacles push them apart?
June 3, 2017
Louisa is a rebel with a cause. To maintain her freedom from the noose of marriage. Gavin is a man who doesn't back away from a challenge. Gutsy, frustrating and entrancing Louisa is a prize worth claiming, now all he has to do is win her heart. Who will come out the winter in this tango of seduction, secrets and romance? How to Bewilder a Lord is a stylishly tempting dance of love that is scandalous with with a capital S.
June 13, 2017
4.5 Stars
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, is determined to win Lady Louisa's heart, but he has a tough task ahead of him in convincing her parents that he's the right man for her. Yet, when the perfect opportunity presents itself for him and Lady Louisa to spend time together, Gavin jumps at the chance, especially since they'll be searching for a missing family treasure together. But with the wager they propose, will Gavin be able to keep his end of the bargain, or will his secret lose him the one woman he loves?
I've been reading more and more Historical Romance lately, and this book was a fantastic read due to the playful banter between the wonderful main characters, the matchmaking efforts of the secondary characters and the hunt for the missing family treasure that had me fascinated to discover who would win the wager the hero and heroine had proposed. The way this story started was a charming introduction into the hero and how much in love he is with the heroine. She's the only woman that's ever stirred his interest in getting married and he's determined to find a way to win her heart. What will it take to convince her parents to give him a chance?
The dialogue was well-written and compelling due to the main characters back stories, especially that of the hero. He did something in his past that has made Lady Louisa's father dislike him, and it's hard to change the man's opinion because he wasn't the only one involved in the incident. The heroine's father blames him, instead of giving him the benefit of the doubt like he did the other guilty party. Then there's the teasing banter between the hero and heroine at times, which was delightful and illustrates how close the hero and heroine are becoming.
As for the main characters, I was charmed by both of them and I loved every moment they interacted. The heroine is sassy, courageous and I liked how determined she was to make the hero hers when it seemed things may not go their way with her parents. Even if it meant doing something that would force her father's hand into letting her marry Gavin. I also liked the sacrifice she was willing to make to be with Gavin, because what she would lose meant so much to her. While the hero, he definitely has a challenge on his hands with Louisa as well as her parents. She makes his life interesting, especially when she's determined to get what she wants. I also liked how the secondary characters were willing to match-make and offer their advice, because it certainly helped the hero to win Louisa over.
Overall, Ms. Broadfield has delivered a marvelous read in this book where the chemistry is strong and the romance was special and exciting and showed Louisa wasn't afraid to go after what she wants and what she wants is Gavin. The way this story ended had me concerned for one of the main characters, because of what happens after their fallout. However, I liked how everything worked out in the end for Louisa and Gavin, because they're meant to be. Do they find the treasure? However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as we discover how far the hero and heroine have come in their relationship and what Gavin ended up doing with his incredible artistic talent. I would recommend How to Bewilder a Lord by Ally Broadfield, if you enjoy Historical Romance, the brother's best friend trope, or books by authors Jess Michaels, Callie Hutton, Christie Caldwell or Julia Quinn.
June 24, 2017
Witty, Entertaining, and a Read 'Til You Finish Book! This is the fourth or fifth book of Ally Broadfield's that I've read and never EVER have I been disappointed.
Gavin Corey- recently having gained an earlship, decides that Louisa Adair (a duke's daughter and the sister of his life-long best friend) is the woman he wants to marry. The connection he feels with her is amazing and has been so great that he set about to reform himself from a rakish lifestyle to gain her hand. The problem is that her father turned against him some time ago, and has never forgiven him for something that happened in the past when he was young. Gavin knows that should Lady Louisa find out about it, she may never be willing to marry him- that is, if he can ever get her to that point. So he sets out to win Louisa, while at the same time keeping his secret buried.
Louisa Adair wants to marry for love- if she ever marries. But her father has promised an unentailed family property that she loves, if she doesn't marry (how fair is that??). She realizes Gavin is interested, but she has heard of his rakish ways and isn't willing to risk the family home she wants and loves so dearly on a chance at marriage.
But Gavin is relentless. And when the Duke and (begrudgingly) and his son ask him to escort his daughter and his son's wife to the family home for his daughter-in-law's season of confinement - Gavib jumps at the chance. He pulls out as many stops as he can to win his lady- but refuses to succumb to anything that could be construed as taking advantage. He is a perfect gentleman. Louisa falls for Gavin- but has to go up against her father for permission. Just when she thinks she may finally have an opportunity to be happy and have everything she's ever wanted- Gavin's secret explodes on them all- putting the future they both wanted at risk.
Can they work through the devastation that Gavin's past has wrought upon them? Or will she stand to inherit as a spinster?
Ally Broadfield creates these wonderful characters and adds enough conflict to keep you engaged from page one to the end. This story was so entertaining. I love her book family- and cannot wait to read more about them. Normally Ally gives enough information about the previous books to allow each to stand alone. But even though I had read the others, I still needed more and thought a little more background info in this one would keep the reader from getting lost.
Outisde of that one small matter (and there was some background info - just not enough), this was an excellent book. I loved it!!
Gavin Corey- recently having gained an earlship, decides that Louisa Adair (a duke's daughter and the sister of his life-long best friend) is the woman he wants to marry. The connection he feels with her is amazing and has been so great that he set about to reform himself from a rakish lifestyle to gain her hand. The problem is that her father turned against him some time ago, and has never forgiven him for something that happened in the past when he was young. Gavin knows that should Lady Louisa find out about it, she may never be willing to marry him- that is, if he can ever get her to that point. So he sets out to win Louisa, while at the same time keeping his secret buried.
Louisa Adair wants to marry for love- if she ever marries. But her father has promised an unentailed family property that she loves, if she doesn't marry (how fair is that??). She realizes Gavin is interested, but she has heard of his rakish ways and isn't willing to risk the family home she wants and loves so dearly on a chance at marriage.
But Gavin is relentless. And when the Duke and (begrudgingly) and his son ask him to escort his daughter and his son's wife to the family home for his daughter-in-law's season of confinement - Gavib jumps at the chance. He pulls out as many stops as he can to win his lady- but refuses to succumb to anything that could be construed as taking advantage. He is a perfect gentleman. Louisa falls for Gavin- but has to go up against her father for permission. Just when she thinks she may finally have an opportunity to be happy and have everything she's ever wanted- Gavin's secret explodes on them all- putting the future they both wanted at risk.
Can they work through the devastation that Gavin's past has wrought upon them? Or will she stand to inherit as a spinster?
Ally Broadfield creates these wonderful characters and adds enough conflict to keep you engaged from page one to the end. This story was so entertaining. I love her book family- and cannot wait to read more about them. Normally Ally gives enough information about the previous books to allow each to stand alone. But even though I had read the others, I still needed more and thought a little more background info in this one would keep the reader from getting lost.
Outisde of that one small matter (and there was some background info - just not enough), this was an excellent book. I loved it!!
June 6, 2017
Foolish young men tend to do foolish things. Gavin Corey was no different. Yet, his foolish indiscretion has come back to haunt him when he falls madly in love with the daughter of a man who hates him. Now the Earl of Thornbrook, Gavin still isn’t good enough to court Lady Louisa Adair in her father’s eyes. Even though he’s mended his rakehell ways and made it clear that he intends to offer for her, Louisa doesn’t take Gavin’s claims seriously.
Louisa doesn’t need to marry and doesn’t really want to if she can inherit her childhood home of Walsley. The stipulation that she makes Walsley her primary residence is another reason she doesn’t believe she can marry. When Gavin is asked by his best friend to escort Louisa and her sister-in-law, Isa, to Walsley for Isa’s confinement, Gavin sees a once in a lifetime chance and he’s not about to squander it.
I was expecting the quest for family jewels to be the focus of Gavin and Louisa’s journey together, but Broadfield surprised and delighted me by having the pair veer from the path several times. I felt like I was falling in love with Gavin at the same time as Louisa. Ok, maybe I fell for him sooner than she did, but how could I not? The second he realized Louisa is the only woman for him, he left all other women behind. At the beginning of our story, he has been besotted for over a year. His charm and devotion bring him the greatest gift he could ever wish for in the form of Louisa.
I love that Broadfield gave me an “ah-ha” moment near the end of the novel. It was a moment when a character brings a notion to light that you as the reader never thought of but completely makes sense. It is not often I get these moments as a reader and I love Broadfield all the more for giving it to me. I wonder if you can guess what my “ah-ha” moment is after you finish reading.
Since this is the first book I’ve read in the three book How To series, I’m looking forward to catching up with the first two books as soon as possible.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Louisa doesn’t need to marry and doesn’t really want to if she can inherit her childhood home of Walsley. The stipulation that she makes Walsley her primary residence is another reason she doesn’t believe she can marry. When Gavin is asked by his best friend to escort Louisa and her sister-in-law, Isa, to Walsley for Isa’s confinement, Gavin sees a once in a lifetime chance and he’s not about to squander it.
I was expecting the quest for family jewels to be the focus of Gavin and Louisa’s journey together, but Broadfield surprised and delighted me by having the pair veer from the path several times. I felt like I was falling in love with Gavin at the same time as Louisa. Ok, maybe I fell for him sooner than she did, but how could I not? The second he realized Louisa is the only woman for him, he left all other women behind. At the beginning of our story, he has been besotted for over a year. His charm and devotion bring him the greatest gift he could ever wish for in the form of Louisa.
I love that Broadfield gave me an “ah-ha” moment near the end of the novel. It was a moment when a character brings a notion to light that you as the reader never thought of but completely makes sense. It is not often I get these moments as a reader and I love Broadfield all the more for giving it to me. I wonder if you can guess what my “ah-ha” moment is after you finish reading.
Since this is the first book I’ve read in the three book How To series, I’m looking forward to catching up with the first two books as soon as possible.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
June 5, 2017
1847 - London
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, is in love with Lady Louisa Adair, the daughter of the Duke of Boulstridge. However, the Duke remembers Gavin’s rakish past and is skeptical of him. Gavin has proposed to Louisa but she has refused him because she is not convinced that he has truly reformed his ways.
Gavin accompanies Louisa and Isa, wife of Edward and his good friend to their home in Walsley. Isa is to remain there during her confinement and Louisa will be with her. Isa’s husband needs to remain in London for a short while and so he requests that Gavin take the ladies to Walsley in Derbyshire. Edward also invites Gavin to stay for Christmas rather than spend it alone at his home, Rosemere. Gavin is delighted at the invitation and accepts.
As Walsley is not entailed and Louisa loves the property, her father plans to leave the estate to her but only if her future husband agrees to live there and not on his own estate. The possibility of that kind of agreement is minimal so Louisa is resigned to be single.
There is a story that a tiara of pink diamonds was discovered on the estate but Louisa thinks there may be more pieces of the set still hidden somewhere. So, she and Gavin begin a search. Will they uncover any long-hidden jewelry? Could they perhaps find a romance as well?
I had a difficult time getting into this story because the characters and their relationships to one another was rather confusing in the beginning. This is Book No. 3 in a series and I read only Book No. 2 nearly 18 months ago. I found it that the time period between reading it made me have to resort to my earlier review to joggle my memory of the plot. I would suggest that readers be sure to read the first two books before reading this one as it is not a stand-alone novel. On the positive side, I will add that of the two earlier books I have read by this author were quite good.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, is in love with Lady Louisa Adair, the daughter of the Duke of Boulstridge. However, the Duke remembers Gavin’s rakish past and is skeptical of him. Gavin has proposed to Louisa but she has refused him because she is not convinced that he has truly reformed his ways.
Gavin accompanies Louisa and Isa, wife of Edward and his good friend to their home in Walsley. Isa is to remain there during her confinement and Louisa will be with her. Isa’s husband needs to remain in London for a short while and so he requests that Gavin take the ladies to Walsley in Derbyshire. Edward also invites Gavin to stay for Christmas rather than spend it alone at his home, Rosemere. Gavin is delighted at the invitation and accepts.
As Walsley is not entailed and Louisa loves the property, her father plans to leave the estate to her but only if her future husband agrees to live there and not on his own estate. The possibility of that kind of agreement is minimal so Louisa is resigned to be single.
There is a story that a tiara of pink diamonds was discovered on the estate but Louisa thinks there may be more pieces of the set still hidden somewhere. So, she and Gavin begin a search. Will they uncover any long-hidden jewelry? Could they perhaps find a romance as well?
I had a difficult time getting into this story because the characters and their relationships to one another was rather confusing in the beginning. This is Book No. 3 in a series and I read only Book No. 2 nearly 18 months ago. I found it that the time period between reading it made me have to resort to my earlier review to joggle my memory of the plot. I would suggest that readers be sure to read the first two books before reading this one as it is not a stand-alone novel. On the positive side, I will add that of the two earlier books I have read by this author were quite good.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 7, 2017
This is the third book in the series and isn't the first time I've read a book written by Ally Broadfield. I've enjoyed all of her books and though I liked this too, just not as much as some of her previous ones.
Since it has been awhile since I read the second book in the series, I had to look back and skim through the book again to remeber who was who and get back into the feel of the story. And though you can absolutely read this as a standalone, I felt like to get a better feel and look at their connection, reading the first two books in the series would be great. But you don't need to if course.
The writing was surperb as always from Ally, and the mystery of the treasure is always fun, especially when it brings the 2 characters together. What I also liked was that the mystery wasn't the main part of the story. Though I do love a good mysyery, it was just a leverage in this one, because the story never totally stayed on its path but veered off from time to time to work on their relationship. There wasn't just the mystery of the treasure but also of Gavin's past and why Louisa's father hates his guts. And I think that was a great addition to the story.
It was also great seeing past characters in this book and they did play a bit of a part in this. And the humor was wonderful and a delight to read.
If you're looking for little to no sexual encounter besides heated kisses and intense broodiness, this book is good. It only has one physical encounter that was very enjoyable and much needed.
The only thing I didn't like about this was the rushed ending. Many stories these days are being rushed to the end and I feel like this is one of them. If only it got more pages in it, it would have been great.
*eARC provided by publisher through NetGalley
Since it has been awhile since I read the second book in the series, I had to look back and skim through the book again to remeber who was who and get back into the feel of the story. And though you can absolutely read this as a standalone, I felt like to get a better feel and look at their connection, reading the first two books in the series would be great. But you don't need to if course.
The writing was surperb as always from Ally, and the mystery of the treasure is always fun, especially when it brings the 2 characters together. What I also liked was that the mystery wasn't the main part of the story. Though I do love a good mysyery, it was just a leverage in this one, because the story never totally stayed on its path but veered off from time to time to work on their relationship. There wasn't just the mystery of the treasure but also of Gavin's past and why Louisa's father hates his guts. And I think that was a great addition to the story.
It was also great seeing past characters in this book and they did play a bit of a part in this. And the humor was wonderful and a delight to read.
If you're looking for little to no sexual encounter besides heated kisses and intense broodiness, this book is good. It only has one physical encounter that was very enjoyable and much needed.
The only thing I didn't like about this was the rushed ending. Many stories these days are being rushed to the end and I feel like this is one of them. If only it got more pages in it, it would have been great.
*eARC provided by publisher through NetGalley
May 16, 2017
4.5 stars
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, has been in love with Lady Louisa Adair for what seems like forever & has shed his rakish ways in the hope of winning her heart, but neither she nor her parents, especially her father consider him a suitable match. Louisa’s sister in law Isa is expecting & her husband Edward asks his best friend, Gavin to accompany Isa & Louisa to Walsley & remain there with them until the rest of the family arrive. Whilst there they wonder if the necklace & earrings Louisa’s great great grandmother is wearing in a portrait have been hidden. The tiara she’s wearing was hidden & was found the previous year by Edward & Isa & whilst they were searching brought them together. Gain & Louisa join forces to try locate the missing jewellery by proposing a wager: if he finds the jewels, Lady Louisa must allow him to court her, but if she prevails, he must reveal the secret he’s keeping from her.
I just couldn’t stop reading this well written book. The characters are lovely, very likeable & have plenty of depth of character. Gavin is adorable, a reformed rake with a soft heart who likes to draw birds & rescue doves. He’s also besotted by Louisa who is strong minded & is trying hard to be independent. The plot is well paced & keeps you reading wanting to see if they find the necklace & earrings & also if the Duke will give his consent for the pair to marry. This is the third in the series but could be read on its own. This is the first book I’ve read by the author & it certainly won’t be the last.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook, has been in love with Lady Louisa Adair for what seems like forever & has shed his rakish ways in the hope of winning her heart, but neither she nor her parents, especially her father consider him a suitable match. Louisa’s sister in law Isa is expecting & her husband Edward asks his best friend, Gavin to accompany Isa & Louisa to Walsley & remain there with them until the rest of the family arrive. Whilst there they wonder if the necklace & earrings Louisa’s great great grandmother is wearing in a portrait have been hidden. The tiara she’s wearing was hidden & was found the previous year by Edward & Isa & whilst they were searching brought them together. Gain & Louisa join forces to try locate the missing jewellery by proposing a wager: if he finds the jewels, Lady Louisa must allow him to court her, but if she prevails, he must reveal the secret he’s keeping from her.
I just couldn’t stop reading this well written book. The characters are lovely, very likeable & have plenty of depth of character. Gavin is adorable, a reformed rake with a soft heart who likes to draw birds & rescue doves. He’s also besotted by Louisa who is strong minded & is trying hard to be independent. The plot is well paced & keeps you reading wanting to see if they find the necklace & earrings & also if the Duke will give his consent for the pair to marry. This is the third in the series but could be read on its own. This is the first book I’ve read by the author & it certainly won’t be the last.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 14, 2017
A sweet romance!
Though How to Bewilder a Lord can stand on its own as a combination romance/light historical mystery, it definitely continues some threads that were started in the first two series books. I have a feeling that having seen Gavin and Louisa in book two ( How to Bewitch an Earl ) would endear the reader even more to them here (though to be honest, they're pretty darn endearing all on their own!)--but don't let the fact that you haven't read the others yet stop you from reading this one :) Gavin and Louisa have their own delightful romance, and their own mystery to solve. Plus, I have a feeling knowing their story will make going back and reading the first two an even more enjoyable experience (plus, I feel like knowing how much trouble Louisa's father gives Gavin here will have me giving him some definite side-eye when I get to his book ( How to Beguile a Duke ) because somehow I doubt he's half as virtuous as he's expecting the younger generation to be ;)
The ending is a bit rushed, but as I was anxious to get Gavin and Louisa to their much-deserved HEA, it's hard to complain much. In the end, How to Bewilder a Lord is an entertaining, quick read just perfect for a summer afternoon or two.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Though How to Bewilder a Lord can stand on its own as a combination romance/light historical mystery, it definitely continues some threads that were started in the first two series books. I have a feeling that having seen Gavin and Louisa in book two ( How to Bewitch an Earl ) would endear the reader even more to them here (though to be honest, they're pretty darn endearing all on their own!)--but don't let the fact that you haven't read the others yet stop you from reading this one :) Gavin and Louisa have their own delightful romance, and their own mystery to solve. Plus, I have a feeling knowing their story will make going back and reading the first two an even more enjoyable experience (plus, I feel like knowing how much trouble Louisa's father gives Gavin here will have me giving him some definite side-eye when I get to his book ( How to Beguile a Duke ) because somehow I doubt he's half as virtuous as he's expecting the younger generation to be ;)
The ending is a bit rushed, but as I was anxious to get Gavin and Louisa to their much-deserved HEA, it's hard to complain much. In the end, How to Bewilder a Lord is an entertaining, quick read just perfect for a summer afternoon or two.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 18, 2017
Gavin Corey, Earl of Thornbrook, has been in love with Lady Louisa Adair for years, but an indiscretion in his youth has her father banning him from their home. When Louisa and her sister-in-law need an escort to the family country manor, Thornbrook is the only one available to escort the ladies. Gavin vows to prove to Louisa that he has reformed his rakish ways and his love for her is true, but can Lady Louisa look beyond his charm to the true Gavin?
This book is well-written and incorporates a family mystery along with the romance. I enjoyed reading how Gavin and Louisa tried to unravel the mystery of family jewels as they grew closer. Gavin was a most likable hero and I loved seeing how he slowly let Louisa see the real him and not the facade he shows the ton. Fans of romances with a mystery thrown in the mix will definitely enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This book is well-written and incorporates a family mystery along with the romance. I enjoyed reading how Gavin and Louisa tried to unravel the mystery of family jewels as they grew closer. Gavin was a most likable hero and I loved seeing how he slowly let Louisa see the real him and not the facade he shows the ton. Fans of romances with a mystery thrown in the mix will definitely enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 4, 2017
Gavin Corey, the Earl of Thornbrook is hopelessly in love, but nobody believes him. His past behaviour has coloured people's opinion of him. He is doing his best to prove he has grown up into a responsible man. The father of the woman he loves has a good reason for not trusting him, but because her brother is his best friend he at least has a chance.
Lady Louisa Adair is daddy's baby girl. He has promised to allow her to inherit her favourite home, but only if it stays as her main residence. While looking after her pregnant sister in law, and preparing for Christmas Louisa and Gavin discover there could be more treasure to find.
This is part of a series. You can read it quite easily as a stand alone but it does contain spoilers for the previous book if you haven't read that.
Our characters are all lots of fun and the story line gives them a lovely mystery to solve. A very entertaining lighthearted romance. I loved it.
Lady Louisa Adair is daddy's baby girl. He has promised to allow her to inherit her favourite home, but only if it stays as her main residence. While looking after her pregnant sister in law, and preparing for Christmas Louisa and Gavin discover there could be more treasure to find.
This is part of a series. You can read it quite easily as a stand alone but it does contain spoilers for the previous book if you haven't read that.
Our characters are all lots of fun and the story line gives them a lovely mystery to solve. A very entertaining lighthearted romance. I loved it.
July 9, 2018
I was a little bewildered reading this book. Although the storyline itself was quite nice, I found the characters a little wishy-washy. Gavin, who lead a rather roguish past, professes to love Louisa. Gavin keeps doing and saying things that go in different directions, and Louisa does the same. He loves her but won't fight to court her. Neither are very straightforward characters. Her father is very hesitant to give Gavin his blessing to court her because of an adolescent indiscretion. However, since so many years had gone by it is difficult to understand why. This is the basis for a good part of the story, so it is necessary. What adds interest to the story is their search for her great great grandmother's jewels. It keeps the story lively and moving along. As stated before, this is a nice story and an enjoyable read. I received this eBook from NetGalley for an honest review.
May 31, 2017
Poor Gavin, loved Louisa but felt he was not good enough. She was all light and kindness but she had been offered her ancestral for her inheritance and she would have to live there most of the year. She loved her home a lot.
The story had delightful characters. The plot kept the complex story going and the mystery, the conflict and the danger heading the way it was suppose to go. The author did such a good job, it amazes me. I enjoyed the book, the story and especially the sweet characters. There are a couple of racy scenes toward the end. The book is definitely worth the time to read.
I received this ARC for an honest opinion.
The story had delightful characters. The plot kept the complex story going and the mystery, the conflict and the danger heading the way it was suppose to go. The author did such a good job, it amazes me. I enjoyed the book, the story and especially the sweet characters. There are a couple of racy scenes toward the end. The book is definitely worth the time to read.
I received this ARC for an honest opinion.
May 20, 2017
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. The story of Gavin and Louisa was a good read and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Gavin loved Louisa and tried to convince her he was sincere in his fillings for her. A treasure hunt, with clues, from her great great grandmother had them working closely and after awhile she realized he was sincere in his feelings for her. Her father was a big obstacle for Gavin to try and conquer. It all worked out in the end. It is a nice historical romance and a good read.
May 20, 2017
I received this from Netgalley/ Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This is book 3 in an series by Ally Broadfield. It was a little bit better than the other two in the series. I could at least handle the characters and the story was pretty well done. I just wish Louisa would have been a little bit more understanding. She was really annoying at times but an okay read.
July 9, 2023
Gavin and Louisa are such interesting, relatable, captivating characters. I enjoyed their romance, and the things that Gavin is willing to do to prove that he loves Louisa. This is a good completion to the series. I enjoyed these characters and this world. I love that we got an epilogue and get to see where these characters are in their HEA.
May 20, 2017
A lovely Historical Romance. I love how there was also a mystery to solve. It made the story and their growing love more fun to read about. Great cast of characters. I think the romance novels should read like this one.
July 12, 2017
Louisa just doesn't want to get married, but Gavin is determined to change her mind.. I enjoyed Gavin's attempts to win her and Louisa coming round to the idea that freedom is also possible when you are married to the person you love.
I received an ARC copy of this book from netgalley.
I received an ARC copy of this book from netgalley.
May 13, 2018
Enjoyable story. A Lovely read. 4*
March 9, 2023
The Count of Monte Carlo
July 24, 2020
I loved this story! Gavin, the Earl of Thornbrook and a known rake among the London upper set, is in love with the Lady Louisa Adair. Lady Louisa is the sister of Gavin's friend, Edward and not sure of her feelings for The Earl. After embarking on a treasure hunt at her family estate, Louisa realizes she has fallen in love with Gavin but they must convince her father that he is the right man for her and that he has reformed from his rakish ways.
June 25, 2017
Delightful
Delightful Regency romance. Great period details and likeable young characters make for a very enjoyable read. It's refreshing to have a hero who is not world-wide or jaded.
Delightful Regency romance. Great period details and likeable young characters make for a very enjoyable read. It's refreshing to have a hero who is not world-wide or jaded.
March 15, 2018
I really enjoyed Gavin and Louisa's story!!
I loved the interactions between these two! The bantering often had me laughing out loud. I have really loved this series and this was a great conclusion to it!
I loved the interactions between these two! The bantering often had me laughing out loud. I have really loved this series and this was a great conclusion to it!
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