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What Happens in the Ballroom #1
How to Train Your Baron
When Elsinore Cosgrove escapes a ballroom in search of adventure, she has no idea it will lead to a hasty marriage. The youngest daughter of a duke, all she wants is to make her own choices. Now she's engaged to an infuriating, handsome Scottish baron who doesn't even know her name! Using all her feminine wiles, along with advice gleaned from a training guide for hunting hounds, Elsinore is determined to mold her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham is a man with many secrets. If another scandal can be avoided with a sham marriage, so be it. Only his fiancée isn't at all what he's expecting, and the clumsy, curious, and clever Elsinore refuses to be set aside. For reasons he's unwilling to explain, the last thing Quin needs is to fall for his wife.
Quin Graham is a man with many secrets. If another scandal can be avoided with a sham marriage, so be it. Only his fiancée isn't at all what he's expecting, and the clumsy, curious, and clever Elsinore refuses to be set aside. For reasons he's unwilling to explain, the last thing Quin needs is to fall for his wife.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2018
135 people are currently reading
341 people want to read
About the author
Diana Lloyd
9 books97 followersDiana Lloyd, mother of gingers, lives in the state shaped like a mitten. Diana has loved books since she first ate one and appreciated them even more once she learned to read. Enjoying an occasional tumble down the rabbit hole of research, Diana writes historical romance by mixing equal parts History, Heart, and Humor. A 2017 RWA Golden Heart finalist with HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON, My 'What Happens In The Ballroom' series is now complete with the publication of book two ABOUT AN EARL and book three LAST LORD STANDING. To stay up to date on all Diana's projects, visit her website: http://www.DianaLloydBooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
August 18, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON (What Happens in the Ballroom #1) by Diana Lloyd is a historical romance with a mystery of suspicious deaths in the hero’s family and a naïve heroine who seeks adventure, but ends up in hilarious situations. This entertaining story kept me reading to solve the mystery and laughing out loud at the heroine’s antics.
Elsinore Cosgrove, the youngest of six daughters of a duke, wishes only to seek out adventure and make her own decisions. When she believes she sees Lord Byron at a ball, she follows to get her copy of his poems signed. What happens is a comedy of errors that have her hastily engaged to a Scottish baron who does not even know her name. Elsinore is not happy to once again not have a say in her future, but she believes she can train her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham has secrets, but rather than bring more scandal to his name, he agrees to an arranged marriage. Quin believes that once his bride gives him his heir, he will send her away for her own safety, but he begins to care too much for his curious and clever wife. As the threat escalates, Elsinore fights to not only stay with her new husband, but to uncover all of Quin’s secrets, while Quin tries to protect his new wife at all costs, including his heart.
I enjoyed this book so much. Elsinore is quirky, witty and so much fun. The predicaments she gets herself into are hilarious and the two books she has as guides for her marriage had me laughing out loud. Elsinore is also steadfast, smart and willing to fight, even Quin, to make her marriage a love match. Quin has had a tragic year before he meets Elsinore and fights to protect his heart, but Elsinore sneaks in and proves she is perfect for him and is willing to fight by his side for their future. The sex scenes are well written, hot and appropriate to the story.
Ms. Llyod has written a historical romance with an intriguing plot, wonderful characters, humor, heat and a much deserved HEA. I am looking forward to more books in this series.
Written for and posted first on The Romance Reviews.
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON (What Happens in the Ballroom #1) by Diana Lloyd is a historical romance with a mystery of suspicious deaths in the hero’s family and a naïve heroine who seeks adventure, but ends up in hilarious situations. This entertaining story kept me reading to solve the mystery and laughing out loud at the heroine’s antics.
Elsinore Cosgrove, the youngest of six daughters of a duke, wishes only to seek out adventure and make her own decisions. When she believes she sees Lord Byron at a ball, she follows to get her copy of his poems signed. What happens is a comedy of errors that have her hastily engaged to a Scottish baron who does not even know her name. Elsinore is not happy to once again not have a say in her future, but she believes she can train her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham has secrets, but rather than bring more scandal to his name, he agrees to an arranged marriage. Quin believes that once his bride gives him his heir, he will send her away for her own safety, but he begins to care too much for his curious and clever wife. As the threat escalates, Elsinore fights to not only stay with her new husband, but to uncover all of Quin’s secrets, while Quin tries to protect his new wife at all costs, including his heart.
I enjoyed this book so much. Elsinore is quirky, witty and so much fun. The predicaments she gets herself into are hilarious and the two books she has as guides for her marriage had me laughing out loud. Elsinore is also steadfast, smart and willing to fight, even Quin, to make her marriage a love match. Quin has had a tragic year before he meets Elsinore and fights to protect his heart, but Elsinore sneaks in and proves she is perfect for him and is willing to fight by his side for their future. The sex scenes are well written, hot and appropriate to the story.
Ms. Llyod has written a historical romance with an intriguing plot, wonderful characters, humor, heat and a much deserved HEA. I am looking forward to more books in this series.
Written for and posted first on The Romance Reviews.
July 27, 2018
This is a funny romp of a story for when you want something light hearted. It's a story that doesn't take itself seriously, but has drama and heat amongst the hilarious antics.
One to pick up when you want to forget about everything else and just enjoy the ride.
One to pick up when you want to forget about everything else and just enjoy the ride.
July 4, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
What a brilliant book .
Can’t say enough good things about this .
It’s witty and amusing , the banter between the characters is so wonderfully written and it was a pleasure to read .
It also has drama and adventure, a murder mystery of sorts .
Taking you from London and the Ton Ballrooms, to Edinburgh and the edge of the Scottish Highlands .
This book has everything and will keep you entertained for a good few hours .
Highly Recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
What a brilliant book .
Can’t say enough good things about this .
It’s witty and amusing , the banter between the characters is so wonderfully written and it was a pleasure to read .
It also has drama and adventure, a murder mystery of sorts .
Taking you from London and the Ton Ballrooms, to Edinburgh and the edge of the Scottish Highlands .
This book has everything and will keep you entertained for a good few hours .
Highly Recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
July 17, 2018
An adventure almost from the first page when we find the heroine, Hippolyta, oops, I meant Elsinore Cosgrove caught in an unusual situation at a ball. Our hero, Quin Graham saves her, well yes, in more ways than one as fate would have it. The youngest daughter of a duke, Elsinore ends up marrying gorgeous Scot Graham and hopes to make him fall in love with her. Oh and from advice from a training guide for hunting hounds she hopes to mold him into the perfect husband! This story is full of humorous moments and if mischief can happen, Elsinore is right in the middle. But there is a serious side as we find Graham trying to recover from many loses and never had he intended to remarry. As they travel to his home in Scotland, things begin to unravel and there is a mystery to be uncovered and enemies to be found.
This was a delightful story that I could not put down until the end. I look forward to more by this author and hope the wait is not long!
This was a delightful story that I could not put down until the end. I look forward to more by this author and hope the wait is not long!
July 28, 2018
How to Train Your Baron by Diana Lloyd is the First book in the What Happens in the Ballroom Series. This is the story of Elsinore Cosgrove and Quin Graham.
Elsinore is the youngest in her family and is treated as such...but Elsinore has a curious nature which leads her into trouble. Quin happens to save her but also ends up having to marry her...a women who he didn't even know her name. But Quin is in town on a serious matter that doesn't give him time for a wife much less one he can care about.
This was actually a funny story but also one with some adventures in it.
Loved their story.
Elsinore is the youngest in her family and is treated as such...but Elsinore has a curious nature which leads her into trouble. Quin happens to save her but also ends up having to marry her...a women who he didn't even know her name. But Quin is in town on a serious matter that doesn't give him time for a wife much less one he can care about.
This was actually a funny story but also one with some adventures in it.
Loved their story.
July 23, 2018
I had a hard time with this one. I see it's mentioned in the blurb - but I didn't like the fact that the heroine uses a guide for training dogs to train her new husband she is forced to marry (compromising situation)
That didn't work for me. Add on her scheming to embarrass him...I wasn't a fan.
That didn't work for me. Add on her scheming to embarrass him...I wasn't a fan.
July 17, 2018
4.25 Stars
When Elsinore Cosgrove escapes a ballroom in search of adventure, she has no idea it will lead to a hasty marriage. The youngest daughter of a duke, all she wants is to make her own choices. Now she's engaged to an infuriating, handsome Scottish baron who doesn't even know her name! Using all her feminine wiles, along with advice gleaned from a training guide for hunting hounds, Elsinore is determined to mould her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham is a man with many secrets. If another scandal can be avoided with a sham marriage, so be it. Only his fiancée isn't at all what he's expecting, and the clumsy, curious, and clever Elsinore refuses to be set aside.
I think I had a smile on my face from the start when Elsinore fiddles with a guillotine until more than halfway through when things took a more serious turn. The characters are very well portrayed, I loved Quin & Elsinore & the way they interacted. The pace of the book is very good & the author managed to combine a light hearted romance with a mystery very well. There were secrets & misunderstandings as well as an affinity with water. Elsinore’s two books were so very different but the way they influenced her were amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book & will certainly read more from the author.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
When Elsinore Cosgrove escapes a ballroom in search of adventure, she has no idea it will lead to a hasty marriage. The youngest daughter of a duke, all she wants is to make her own choices. Now she's engaged to an infuriating, handsome Scottish baron who doesn't even know her name! Using all her feminine wiles, along with advice gleaned from a training guide for hunting hounds, Elsinore is determined to mould her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham is a man with many secrets. If another scandal can be avoided with a sham marriage, so be it. Only his fiancée isn't at all what he's expecting, and the clumsy, curious, and clever Elsinore refuses to be set aside.
I think I had a smile on my face from the start when Elsinore fiddles with a guillotine until more than halfway through when things took a more serious turn. The characters are very well portrayed, I loved Quin & Elsinore & the way they interacted. The pace of the book is very good & the author managed to combine a light hearted romance with a mystery very well. There were secrets & misunderstandings as well as an affinity with water. Elsinore’s two books were so very different but the way they influenced her were amusing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book & will certainly read more from the author.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 23, 2018
This book was great! I liked the authors writing style. I liked the drama she was able to put into a book and make you really feel for Elsinore and Quinn. Both in tough spots in their life. This book had me turning pages quicker than I could read. It was intense and funny and just really sweet. I will definitely be reading more from this author!
July 19, 2018
Publisher's Description:
When Elsinore Cosgrove escapes a ballroom in search of adventure, she has no idea it will lead to a hasty marriage. The youngest daughter of a duke, all she wants is to make her own choices. Now she's engaged to an infuriating, handsome Scottish baron who doesn't even know her name! Using all her feminine wiles, along with advice gleaned from a training guide for hunting hounds, Elsinore is determined to mold her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham is a man with many secrets. If another scandal can be avoided with a sham marriage, so be it. Only his fiancée isn't at all what he's expecting, and the clumsy, curious, and clever Elsinore refuses to be set aside. For reasons he's unwilling to explain, the last thing Quin needs is to fall for his wife.
My Thoughts:
This delightfully humorous book had me laughing out loud. It was my first time reading anything by this author and I soon discovered that this book is her debut novel.
Elsinore Cosgrove can't seem to stay out of scrapes. She just seems to stumble into trouble that could be her ruin constantly. She doesn't mean to cause trouble but her clumsy and curious nature seems to always land her in trouble none the less.
Quin Graham never intended to marry again and because of his kindness to a rather clumsy Elsinore he has landed himself with an unwanted bride.
I loved this book from the first chapter and could not believe I had actually read the first half of this book I was so completely drawn in. This is a laugh out loud story and made me anxious for more from this new on the scene author.
I gave this book 4.85 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 3.75 of 5.0 flames. Our heroine's introduction to the intimacy of marriage is undeniably humorous and the book carries on as her naivete abounds. I would have given it 5 stars if there hadn't been a slight stumbling block that took my rating down just a bit.
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 title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
When Elsinore Cosgrove escapes a ballroom in search of adventure, she has no idea it will lead to a hasty marriage. The youngest daughter of a duke, all she wants is to make her own choices. Now she's engaged to an infuriating, handsome Scottish baron who doesn't even know her name! Using all her feminine wiles, along with advice gleaned from a training guide for hunting hounds, Elsinore is determined to mold her baron into the husband she wants.
Quin Graham is a man with many secrets. If another scandal can be avoided with a sham marriage, so be it. Only his fiancée isn't at all what he's expecting, and the clumsy, curious, and clever Elsinore refuses to be set aside. For reasons he's unwilling to explain, the last thing Quin needs is to fall for his wife.
My Thoughts:
This delightfully humorous book had me laughing out loud. It was my first time reading anything by this author and I soon discovered that this book is her debut novel.
Elsinore Cosgrove can't seem to stay out of scrapes. She just seems to stumble into trouble that could be her ruin constantly. She doesn't mean to cause trouble but her clumsy and curious nature seems to always land her in trouble none the less.
Quin Graham never intended to marry again and because of his kindness to a rather clumsy Elsinore he has landed himself with an unwanted bride.
I loved this book from the first chapter and could not believe I had actually read the first half of this book I was so completely drawn in. This is a laugh out loud story and made me anxious for more from this new on the scene author.
I gave this book 4.85 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 3.75 of 5.0 flames. Our heroine's introduction to the intimacy of marriage is undeniably humorous and the book carries on as her naivete abounds. I would have given it 5 stars if there hadn't been a slight stumbling block that took my rating down just a bit.
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 title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
July 10, 2018
Shut The Front Door!! This is an insanely great read and although I'm new to the historical romance genre, this is a must read. I admit the blurb lured me in, but right from the very first page the story kept me turning those pages.
This book has it all love, suspense, an alpha hero and a tad nutty but absolutely perfect heroine. I loved Elsinore! She made the story perfect. Quin was the perfect alpha male reeling from the loss of his son and betrayed by his late wife he leaves Scotland to travel to England to find help with uncovering the mystery back home. Something that has left him with a hardened heart at times, suspicious of what he thinks he sees or hears but taken with the lovely Elsinore. It's by a curious Elsinore wanting to escape her future bound in a loveless marriage and the youngest daughter in the family who has never been allowed to use her voice and is discounted at every turn. Happenstance puts these two together and the outright laugh out loud moments, which are many through this book has him proposing marriage. To her dismay once again Elsinore has no day in things and finds herself married to this Scot within days and headed back to his home in Scotland. There the story takes a wonderful turn into the suspense that unpins the story. Page turner. The twists and turns were perfect and... you have to read the book. It's an absolute must read.
If the author has any doubt about this story, rest assured it's stellar and I'd give it more than five stars!
advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book has it all love, suspense, an alpha hero and a tad nutty but absolutely perfect heroine. I loved Elsinore! She made the story perfect. Quin was the perfect alpha male reeling from the loss of his son and betrayed by his late wife he leaves Scotland to travel to England to find help with uncovering the mystery back home. Something that has left him with a hardened heart at times, suspicious of what he thinks he sees or hears but taken with the lovely Elsinore. It's by a curious Elsinore wanting to escape her future bound in a loveless marriage and the youngest daughter in the family who has never been allowed to use her voice and is discounted at every turn. Happenstance puts these two together and the outright laugh out loud moments, which are many through this book has him proposing marriage. To her dismay once again Elsinore has no day in things and finds herself married to this Scot within days and headed back to his home in Scotland. There the story takes a wonderful turn into the suspense that unpins the story. Page turner. The twists and turns were perfect and... you have to read the book. It's an absolute must read.
If the author has any doubt about this story, rest assured it's stellar and I'd give it more than five stars!
advanced reader copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 30, 2018
This book was a chore to finish. I didn’t care for either MC and all of the heroine’s little rebellions came across as childish.
January 18, 2019
How to Train Your Baron brought something fresh to the Regency Romance genre. I like Regency Romances, but they're all basically the same: woman of nobility caught in a compromising position is forced to marry. That's the trope. How to Train Your Baron follows that same trope, but then offers something different. Elsinore attempts to bring new husband to heel by following the instructions in a dog training manual. Meanwhile, Quin is embroiled in a mystery over the deaths of his late wife and son. So there's more to this novel than a simple boy-meets-girl. The characters are fun and likable, the dialogue and writing are witty, and the end was quite exciting. A very enjoyable read!
July 26, 2018
This story was a fun and quick read, one that kept engaged from the first chapter right up to the happily ever after.. filled with adventure, murder, mayhem and romance.
I knew I was going to love the heroine, Elsinore ( I kept saying dang this chick could be me) we first meet her running across a ballroom because she wants to meet Lord Byron (the poet) and while she doesn't end up meeting him.. she does some how manage to get her hand caught in a working model of the guillotine which is how she ends up meeting Quin who comes to her rescue but somehow they end up in a compromising position and Elsinore kisses him because of Byron's poems and fairies. They marry quickly but not everything is what it seems. Quin keeps getting messages that accuses him of his son's and first wife's murder.. Elsinore, wanting a life of adventure and for people to stop telling her what to do.. tries using a dog training manual and the Kamasutra to mold Quin into a model husband, he finds out and is highly insulted (I mean why though) anyways they have some troubles but they manage to pull through them, but not with out some adventure and near death experiences along the way.
* I received a copy from author pals for a blog tour. All thoughts and opinions are my own for a full review check out my blog post on stainonthepage.com
I knew I was going to love the heroine, Elsinore ( I kept saying dang this chick could be me) we first meet her running across a ballroom because she wants to meet Lord Byron (the poet) and while she doesn't end up meeting him.. she does some how manage to get her hand caught in a working model of the guillotine which is how she ends up meeting Quin who comes to her rescue but somehow they end up in a compromising position and Elsinore kisses him because of Byron's poems and fairies. They marry quickly but not everything is what it seems. Quin keeps getting messages that accuses him of his son's and first wife's murder.. Elsinore, wanting a life of adventure and for people to stop telling her what to do.. tries using a dog training manual and the Kamasutra to mold Quin into a model husband, he finds out and is highly insulted (I mean why though) anyways they have some troubles but they manage to pull through them, but not with out some adventure and near death experiences along the way.
* I received a copy from author pals for a blog tour. All thoughts and opinions are my own for a full review check out my blog post on stainonthepage.com
July 23, 2018
Quin Graham has come to London to hire a runner to help solve the mystery of who keeps sending him threatening letters after the deaths of his wife and infant son. While at a ball, he unwittingly becomes entangled with Lady Elsinore Cosgrove when he tries to free her hand from a scaled-down guillotine prop. When he finally gets her free, they both end up on the floor with wine split all over them, just in time for the Duke to walk into the room. Quin has no choice, but to offer for Elsinore's hand. This is the last thing he wants when he's surrounded by danger. Elsinore is furious that she's trapped into a marriage because of circumstances. She must try to make the best of her marriage in the strange land of Scotland. Can Quin keep her safe from harm while he tries to figure out who's trying to kill him and everyone he loves?
This was such a fun and clever book. Ms. Lloyd has written such well-rounded characters and Quin and Elsinore's banter when they're not arguing is very entertaining. I loved Quin. He was so honorable and tried so hard to keep Elsinore safe. The mystery was a great addition to a very enjoyable regency romance.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review and I was not obligated to leave a review.
This was such a fun and clever book. Ms. Lloyd has written such well-rounded characters and Quin and Elsinore's banter when they're not arguing is very entertaining. I loved Quin. He was so honorable and tried so hard to keep Elsinore safe. The mystery was a great addition to a very enjoyable regency romance.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review and I was not obligated to leave a review.
July 24, 2018
How to Train Your Baron by Diana Lloyd is a book 1 in a new and exciting series,”What Happens in the Ballroom”. “A Regency romp mash-up of Cinderella and Humpty-Dumpty.”
A fun, entertaining and intriguing story with a calamity of mishaps, adventure, humor, witty banter, suspense and intrigue, makes for some hilarious moments.
This is the story of Lord Quin Graham, a Scottish baron and Elsinore Cosgrove, the daughter of a duke, and their hasty marriage, after being found in a compromising position. Set in the ballrooms of the England to the Scottish highlands, readers will find themselves turning pages and laughing out loud, but there are also moments of danger, plenty of mystery, suspense and intrigue. Well written, well crafted with engaging and entertaining characters. The storyline flows seamlessly and effortlessly. I absolutely loved HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON and look forward to more from Diana Lloyd What an impressive debut book/author!!
“I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review.”
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewer: AprilR
A fun, entertaining and intriguing story with a calamity of mishaps, adventure, humor, witty banter, suspense and intrigue, makes for some hilarious moments.
This is the story of Lord Quin Graham, a Scottish baron and Elsinore Cosgrove, the daughter of a duke, and their hasty marriage, after being found in a compromising position. Set in the ballrooms of the England to the Scottish highlands, readers will find themselves turning pages and laughing out loud, but there are also moments of danger, plenty of mystery, suspense and intrigue. Well written, well crafted with engaging and entertaining characters. The storyline flows seamlessly and effortlessly. I absolutely loved HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON and look forward to more from Diana Lloyd What an impressive debut book/author!!
“I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review.”
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewer: AprilR
March 30, 2021
Elsinore Casgrove soll auf dem Ball ,des Herzogs mit einem älteren Mann ihres Standes verlobt wede. Doch Elsinore hat da andere Pläne ,si emöchte lieber ein Autogram des Dichters Lord Byron ergattern und stürmt so von einem fettnäpfchen ins nächste und landet am Ende als Verlobte des zwielichtigen schottischen Baron Quin Graham ,der leider noch nicht mal ihren Namen kennt .Durch die kompromitierende Situation in der man die beiden fand ,gabs nur die Verlobung um der Schmach zu entgehen und so befinden sich diese beiden Menschen sehr schnell auf der reise nach Schottland.
Doch beiden geht das alles viel zu schnell.Quin ist noch immer gebeutelt von der Misere um seine erste Frau ,die verstorben ist .Doch wie und warum ist unklar und die mysteriösen Drohungungen ,die er erhält machenes auch nicht einfacher .
Derweil versucht Elsinore mit Ratschlägen aus einem Trainingshandbuch für Jagdhunde das beste aus der Situation zu machen ,denn ihre fraulichen Reize scheinen bei Quin ja nicht so an zu kommen .
Die beiden sind schon ein lustige Paar ,das für machen Schmunzler sorgt beim lesen und Elsinore muss man einfach mögen
Doch beiden geht das alles viel zu schnell.Quin ist noch immer gebeutelt von der Misere um seine erste Frau ,die verstorben ist .Doch wie und warum ist unklar und die mysteriösen Drohungungen ,die er erhält machenes auch nicht einfacher .
Derweil versucht Elsinore mit Ratschlägen aus einem Trainingshandbuch für Jagdhunde das beste aus der Situation zu machen ,denn ihre fraulichen Reize scheinen bei Quin ja nicht so an zu kommen .
Die beiden sind schon ein lustige Paar ,das für machen Schmunzler sorgt beim lesen und Elsinore muss man einfach mögen
July 17, 2018
DNF.
An absolutely stupid, reckless and thoughtless heroine. I was so irritated with her character that I could not continue after the 1st few chapters when she just kept being more and more thoughtless and selfish. I cannot like a heroine who, by her very deliberate actions hurts, inconveniences or embarrass others.
Desiring adventure and “her way”, when her older sisters are married off & she considers them boring in there complacent, married life. Elsinore decide she wants adventure. When her recklessness gets her into a compromising position, though quite innocently, the poor man Quin, is honourable and offers for her.
Thereafter Elsinore just gets worst. Determining after reading a book on training canines, that she wants to assert her "dominance" over her intended and that she will be no docile wife, she deliberately puts him into awkward situations. I gave up midway thru chapter 6 being too irritated with the heroine to continue.
Not my kind of book or character.
An absolutely stupid, reckless and thoughtless heroine. I was so irritated with her character that I could not continue after the 1st few chapters when she just kept being more and more thoughtless and selfish. I cannot like a heroine who, by her very deliberate actions hurts, inconveniences or embarrass others.
Desiring adventure and “her way”, when her older sisters are married off & she considers them boring in there complacent, married life. Elsinore decide she wants adventure. When her recklessness gets her into a compromising position, though quite innocently, the poor man Quin, is honourable and offers for her.
Thereafter Elsinore just gets worst. Determining after reading a book on training canines, that she wants to assert her "dominance" over her intended and that she will be no docile wife, she deliberately puts him into awkward situations. I gave up midway thru chapter 6 being too irritated with the heroine to continue.
Not my kind of book or character.
July 23, 2018
Such a unique, wonderful story! Lady Elsinore is the youngest of six children of an English Duke. While at a party one evening she finds herself in a bit of a pickle and enlists the aid of Quin, a Scottish Laird, to extricate herself from it. But, no good deed goes unpunished and the two are caught in a laughable, yet compromising position.
In order to escape social ruin for both of them, the two are set to marry. This begins a trail of intrigue and danger for both of them that follows them from London into the Scottish highlands. All the while the heroine, attempts to “train” her husband into becoming the spouse of her dreams, by using a dog training manual and a copy of the Kama Sutra! She is a delight. The book is filled with colorful characters, an interesting plot, and plenty of heat.
I highly recommend this book to readers of historical romance who want to be pulled into a few hours of start to finish fun.
In order to escape social ruin for both of them, the two are set to marry. This begins a trail of intrigue and danger for both of them that follows them from London into the Scottish highlands. All the while the heroine, attempts to “train” her husband into becoming the spouse of her dreams, by using a dog training manual and a copy of the Kama Sutra! She is a delight. The book is filled with colorful characters, an interesting plot, and plenty of heat.
I highly recommend this book to readers of historical romance who want to be pulled into a few hours of start to finish fun.
July 28, 2018
Elsinore Cosgrove got more than she bargained for when she left the ballroom in search of Lord Byron. Quin Graham didn’t exactly sign up for a bride when Elsinore got her hand stuck in a guillotine, but hey everything happens for a reason, right? How to Train Your Baron is a delightful story of a young woman in search of adventure before having to be forced into a marriage she wouldn’t want, while a young man, who has experienced more tragedy than one should have to bear, tries to find redemption. Can they let down their guards and let each other in?
What I loved about this story is there was humor, love, and mystery. This was extremely well written, and you didn’t notice you were reading over 300 pages. While I understood Elsinore’s need for adventure, there were moments of, “Well, that was unnecessary…” but those moments set up scenes of hilarity. I would be interested in reading other books in the series, however many that would hold!
What I loved about this story is there was humor, love, and mystery. This was extremely well written, and you didn’t notice you were reading over 300 pages. While I understood Elsinore’s need for adventure, there were moments of, “Well, that was unnecessary…” but those moments set up scenes of hilarity. I would be interested in reading other books in the series, however many that would hold!
July 27, 2018
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publishers for an honest review.
This book was a delight to read and I thank you Diana Lloyd for a story that had me laughing out so loud my family thought I was having a fit. I have seen a few movies with this theme of training a husband with dog training techniques and loved them and this story of Elsinore Cosgrove and Quin Graham is a story I recommend to readers who love these type of stories. Elsinore is a wonderful character and her way of training her Baron is a delightful read and I enjoyed it very much. Poor Quin has not had much of a break in his life and he sure lucked out when the lovely Elsinore came along. The dialog between these two was great and I know I will be wanting to share how wonderful this book is with my friends and family who read Historical's with humour.
This book was a delight to read and I thank you Diana Lloyd for a story that had me laughing out so loud my family thought I was having a fit. I have seen a few movies with this theme of training a husband with dog training techniques and loved them and this story of Elsinore Cosgrove and Quin Graham is a story I recommend to readers who love these type of stories. Elsinore is a wonderful character and her way of training her Baron is a delightful read and I enjoyed it very much. Poor Quin has not had much of a break in his life and he sure lucked out when the lovely Elsinore came along. The dialog between these two was great and I know I will be wanting to share how wonderful this book is with my friends and family who read Historical's with humour.
July 28, 2018
Delightful debut Regency
A Regency romp that will make you smile at every cleverly written word. DIana Lloyd’s HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON is filled with sparkling dialogue and two main characters who never give the reader a chance to catch a breath. In this first book of the series, Ms. Lloyd brings her wonderful characters to life with a unique style and voice. A well-paced, intriguing plot moves the story forward smoothly. Not just a simple romance, there is often humor in the twists and turns, secret pasts, lies and jealousy, and discovery of true love . That’s a lot to put in one book, but Ms. Lloyd does it brilliantly. I look forward to reading Book 2.
Oh, by the way, to learn how to train your own baron, you’ll have to read Book 1.
A Regency romp that will make you smile at every cleverly written word. DIana Lloyd’s HOW TO TRAIN YOUR BARON is filled with sparkling dialogue and two main characters who never give the reader a chance to catch a breath. In this first book of the series, Ms. Lloyd brings her wonderful characters to life with a unique style and voice. A well-paced, intriguing plot moves the story forward smoothly. Not just a simple romance, there is often humor in the twists and turns, secret pasts, lies and jealousy, and discovery of true love . That’s a lot to put in one book, but Ms. Lloyd does it brilliantly. I look forward to reading Book 2.
Oh, by the way, to learn how to train your own baron, you’ll have to read Book 1.
July 13, 2018
Who would have thought that a guillotine and a wet courtship could bring so much happiness to two aristocrats?
I really loved this book. It had just the right mix of fun, serious layers and adventure.
Elsinore and Quinn are perfect for each other. Elsinore's spirit, creativity and impulsive behavior helped Quinn solve his trust problem. - Sure, sometimes I could just have shaken him. Stupid man.
But he never tried to suppress Elsinore's spirit. Instead, he was mostly supportive by her side and let her have her own experiences. - For that he immediately won my heart.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really loved this book. It had just the right mix of fun, serious layers and adventure.
Elsinore and Quinn are perfect for each other. Elsinore's spirit, creativity and impulsive behavior helped Quinn solve his trust problem. - Sure, sometimes I could just have shaken him. Stupid man.
But he never tried to suppress Elsinore's spirit. Instead, he was mostly supportive by her side and let her have her own experiences. - For that he immediately won my heart.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2018
Lady Elsinore Cosgrove is the youngest of a large family, and dislikes always being treated like a child. She longs for adventure and has a habit of getting into situations that her parents disapprove of. Curiosity might be more dangerous than she thought.
Baron Quin Graham has come to London to find someone without clan ties that can investigate the threats he has been receiving. The deaths of his family have left him unable to trust anyone. The last thing he is looking for is a new bride who could also be in danger.
An amusing, sweet, and adventurous historical romance. It has lovely characters and an intriguing story.
I loved it.
Baron Quin Graham has come to London to find someone without clan ties that can investigate the threats he has been receiving. The deaths of his family have left him unable to trust anyone. The last thing he is looking for is a new bride who could also be in danger.
An amusing, sweet, and adventurous historical romance. It has lovely characters and an intriguing story.
I loved it.
July 21, 2018
Amazingly funny story. Yummy hero. Delightful and witty heroine. A storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat and a smile on your face. The antics that Elsinore gets up to are unbelievable funny. The author has created the start of what I know will be an amazing series. The character development is flawless and beautiful. Well done!
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November 7, 2018
This Historical Romance is entertaining with the Historical details nicely researched re manners, travelling times etc. I'm assuming it's a debut novel and if it is, then it's an excellent job and I love reading books from new authors. Very well written with lots of wit meandering throughout the plot; which is partly light-hearted and partly drama. However, I felt that I got to know the heroine quite well, but not the hero quite as much. Thank goodness too, that the author has not abused the 'Scottish Accent' in the dialogue. 🙂 Ms Lloyd merely throws an odd word in, to remind us Quin is from Scotland.
Basic Blurb - Elsinore is the youngest daughter of a Duke and is always getting into 'scrapes' because she wants an 'adventure'. Because of her curiosity, she manages to land herself in a compromising position with luckless visiting Scotsman Quin (whilst at a ball), so of course he proposes. She tries all sorts of capers to undo the proposal, which are quite amusing. When she decides she's failed, she resorts to using a Dog Training manual 🙄 she finds in the library to try and 'train' her Baron. Because of course, she still wants adventures - even if marriage is inevitable. And lets NOT THINK about the copy of the Karma Sutra she 'finds' at the same time. 🤦♂️ Perfect reading material for an innocent debutant in 1812.
Of course Quin is hiding dark and uncomfortable secrets from his fiancée and soon to be wife, which begin unravelling as the weeks unfold. So to sum it up, this story was quite engaging with a bit of fun and intrigue and tension and adventure - but not too 'out there' to be unbelievable. I wanted to know what happened enough to read it in one go too, without picking something else up in the middle because I got bored. (Been doing a lot of that lately) One thing I wasn't a fan of were the numerous scenes that faded to black, then were recapped later via internal reflection. I prefer real time if at all possible, as filling in events at a later time makes the story feel stilted and takes away from the tension.
I will definitely be looking for more books from this author. She currently has a story in an anthology just released on Nov 1st 2018 (Love Rekindled), so I'll be interested to read that. 🙂
Basic Blurb - Elsinore is the youngest daughter of a Duke and is always getting into 'scrapes' because she wants an 'adventure'. Because of her curiosity, she manages to land herself in a compromising position with luckless visiting Scotsman Quin (whilst at a ball), so of course he proposes. She tries all sorts of capers to undo the proposal, which are quite amusing. When she decides she's failed, she resorts to using a Dog Training manual 🙄 she finds in the library to try and 'train' her Baron. Because of course, she still wants adventures - even if marriage is inevitable. And lets NOT THINK about the copy of the Karma Sutra she 'finds' at the same time. 🤦♂️ Perfect reading material for an innocent debutant in 1812.
Of course Quin is hiding dark and uncomfortable secrets from his fiancée and soon to be wife, which begin unravelling as the weeks unfold. So to sum it up, this story was quite engaging with a bit of fun and intrigue and tension and adventure - but not too 'out there' to be unbelievable. I wanted to know what happened enough to read it in one go too, without picking something else up in the middle because I got bored. (Been doing a lot of that lately) One thing I wasn't a fan of were the numerous scenes that faded to black, then were recapped later via internal reflection. I prefer real time if at all possible, as filling in events at a later time makes the story feel stilted and takes away from the tension.
I will definitely be looking for more books from this author. She currently has a story in an anthology just released on Nov 1st 2018 (Love Rekindled), so I'll be interested to read that. 🙂
July 31, 2018
This was certainly a delightful read! It was such a fun story that once I started it I didn't want to put it down. This book had one of the best first meetings of the hero and heroine ever. Quin discovers Elsinore with her hand trapped in a very real tabletop guillotine. Yes, you read that right. He tries to release her and a total farce ensues, requiring the two to wed. There I sat, reading and wearing a silly grin. The humor was throughout the entire book.
However, there was also some mystery and heartbreak (both past and current). Quin lost all his family, and there were very serious rumors as to Quin's connection with those tragedies. He received many notes with threats in them. He wanted to protect Elsinore from danger, so he tried to push her away. Except she pushed back.....using a dog training book and what appears to be the Kama Sutra to guide her. (Our Elsinore is certainly an unusual heroine, prone to causing trouble.) You'll root for these two to have a happy ending, as iffy as that seems to be. I certainly look forward to the next book in this series!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
However, there was also some mystery and heartbreak (both past and current). Quin lost all his family, and there were very serious rumors as to Quin's connection with those tragedies. He received many notes with threats in them. He wanted to protect Elsinore from danger, so he tried to push her away. Except she pushed back.....using a dog training book and what appears to be the Kama Sutra to guide her. (Our Elsinore is certainly an unusual heroine, prone to causing trouble.) You'll root for these two to have a happy ending, as iffy as that seems to be. I certainly look forward to the next book in this series!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
August 21, 2018
An entertaining read I just felt could have used a little more polish
I hadn't previously read this author (it looks like this is probably a debut novel) but the blurb grabbed me so I decided to give it a chance and the story started off well. I found Elsinore and the situations she got herself into amusing, and I could certainly empathize with her wish to control her own life. I also empathized with Quin and was quickly pulled into the intrigue surrounding him.
I enjoyed the set-up which was a nice mix of both suspense and humor, and as a dog owner, I was particularly amused by the idea of applying the tenets of dog training to training one's husband. The writing itself was technically well-done and had a smooth flow; in fact I was a little surprised to find that this was a debut work.
The main problem I had with the book was that it seemed inconsistent or uneven at times. While the Elsinore for two thirds of the book was intelligent, charming, funny and determined, in the middle section what had started as amusing was coming across to me as childish and irritating. Even Quin's behavior felt a bit childish to me at times in that section and the book dragged for me there as a result. The tone also felt uneven to me; while most of the scenes with Elsinore were humorous or silly, including those with Quin, scenes with Quin but not Elsinore were darker and more somber. Adding a little more seriousness to Elsinore and a little more humor to Quin would have smoothed the tone out and improved Elsinore's character for me. This seemed to happen naturally in the sections of the book I liked, particularly the ending. And the sections I liked, I REALLY liked.
A nice set up, interesting plot and intriguing characters all made for an entertaining read for me that I just felt could have used a little more polish. I'll be interested to see what this author does in the future. 3.5 stars
B2B Kelly
I hadn't previously read this author (it looks like this is probably a debut novel) but the blurb grabbed me so I decided to give it a chance and the story started off well. I found Elsinore and the situations she got herself into amusing, and I could certainly empathize with her wish to control her own life. I also empathized with Quin and was quickly pulled into the intrigue surrounding him.
I enjoyed the set-up which was a nice mix of both suspense and humor, and as a dog owner, I was particularly amused by the idea of applying the tenets of dog training to training one's husband. The writing itself was technically well-done and had a smooth flow; in fact I was a little surprised to find that this was a debut work.
The main problem I had with the book was that it seemed inconsistent or uneven at times. While the Elsinore for two thirds of the book was intelligent, charming, funny and determined, in the middle section what had started as amusing was coming across to me as childish and irritating. Even Quin's behavior felt a bit childish to me at times in that section and the book dragged for me there as a result. The tone also felt uneven to me; while most of the scenes with Elsinore were humorous or silly, including those with Quin, scenes with Quin but not Elsinore were darker and more somber. Adding a little more seriousness to Elsinore and a little more humor to Quin would have smoothed the tone out and improved Elsinore's character for me. This seemed to happen naturally in the sections of the book I liked, particularly the ending. And the sections I liked, I REALLY liked.
A nice set up, interesting plot and intriguing characters all made for an entertaining read for me that I just felt could have used a little more polish. I'll be interested to see what this author does in the future. 3.5 stars
B2B Kelly
September 9, 2018
How to Train Your Baron is a cute story that had a current of utter sadness running through it. Elsinore leaves ball to follow a man who she believes is Lord Byron. But she loses him and ends up needing a rescue from Quin. This rescue results in a hasty engagement and hasty marriage.
Quin resigned himself to marrying Elsinore to avoid any more scandal attached to his name or family. But he doesn't want a real marriage, maybe Elsinore will give him a child and then she can live her life how she pleases.
Quin has been hurt, but he isn't very kind to Elsinore who for her part decides to bring him around to her idea of marriage through advice from a hound training book.
This was a nice story, there was definite chemistry between Quin and Elsinore along with funny parts and passion. It was a bit unmemorable. I wanted Quin to be a better man for Elsinore's sake but he didn't seem interested. The plot was set up to be angsty but to me it missed the mark a bit.
Quin resigned himself to marrying Elsinore to avoid any more scandal attached to his name or family. But he doesn't want a real marriage, maybe Elsinore will give him a child and then she can live her life how she pleases.
Quin has been hurt, but he isn't very kind to Elsinore who for her part decides to bring him around to her idea of marriage through advice from a hound training book.
This was a nice story, there was definite chemistry between Quin and Elsinore along with funny parts and passion. It was a bit unmemorable. I wanted Quin to be a better man for Elsinore's sake but he didn't seem interested. The plot was set up to be angsty but to me it missed the mark a bit.
July 28, 2018
The youngest daughter of a duke Elsinore Cosgrove wants adventure not balls. Every time she tries to find it mishaps find her. Quin Graham has come to London to hire an investigator. He has lost his whole family in the matter of a year, both parents, his son and his conniving wife. Now he is receiving cryptic threats. An unexpected encounter leads to Quin and Elisnore engaged. Elisnore tries to drive Quin off but he will do his duty get an hire then ship his new wife off. But the more time he spends with Elisinore the more he feels alive again.
Diana Lloyd builds a wonderful romance mystery. I enjoyed every page of the banter between the main characters and the mystery of who was threatening Quin. Can't wait for her next book.
Diana Lloyd builds a wonderful romance mystery. I enjoyed every page of the banter between the main characters and the mystery of who was threatening Quin. Can't wait for her next book.
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