The Earl's Bride

Regency Brides #2

by Joanne Wadsworth

Death and danger won’t halt this loyal lady from aiding her earl in uncovering the dark secrets within his family. A spine-tingling Regency romance from New York Times Bestselling Author Joanne Wadsworth.

Falling for her isn’t permitted.

Following the brutal murder of his father and elder brother, James Hargrove, the Earl of Donnelly, comes into a title he never expected. His future was set, to join the 18th Royal Hussars and dedicate his life to his king and country. Now, he’s been dragged into the shadowy depths of the underworld as he seeks to discover the impossible—to uncover who murdered his loved ones.

Lady Sophia Trentbury has long since loved the earl and fears for his life when she learns of his decision to uncover who murdered his father and brother. She’ll do whatever it takes to aid him in his mission, even if she must immerse herself in London’s deadly underworld of spies and espionage.

As the earl is swept into a lethal circle of deadly enemies, he must discover what is truth and what is deception, and all while protecting the scorching love of his lady who won’t leave his side, even when he demands it. Can he hope for victory?

Each book in this series is standalone, and can be enjoyed out of sequence.

Genres: Historical Romance, Mystery, Historical, Regency, Romance, Regency Romance

172 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2017

About the author

Joanne Wadsworth is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author who adores getting lost in the world of romance, no matter what era in time that might be. Hot alpha Highlanders hound her, demanding their stories are told and she’s devoted to ensuring they meet their match, whether that be with a feisty lass from the present or far in the past.

Living on a tiny island at the bottom of the world, she calls New Zealand home. Big-dreamer, hoarder of chocolate, and addicted to juicy watermelons since the age of five, she chases after her four energetic children and has her own hunky hubby on the side.

So come and join in all the fun, because this kiwi girl promises to give you her “Hot-Highlander” oath, to bring you a heart-pounding, sexy adventure from the moment you turn the first page. This is where romance meets fantasy and adventure…

Highlander Heat Series: HIGHLANDER'S CASTLE, HIGHLANDER'S MAGIC, HIGHLANDER'S CHARM, HIGHLANDER'S GUARDIAN, HIGHLANDER'S FAERIE, HIGHLANDER'S CHAMPION, HIGHLANDER'S CAPTIVE.

The Matheson Brothers Series: HIGHLANDER'S DESIRE, HIGHLANDER'S PASSION, HIGHLANDER'S SEDUCTION.

Clan Matheson Series: HIGHLANDER'S KISS, HIGHLANDER'S HEART, HIGHLANDER'S SWORD.

The Fae Series: HIGHLANDER'S BRIDE, HIGHLANDER'S CARESS, HIGHLANDER'S TOUCH.

The Matheson Warriors Series: HIGHLANDER'S SHIFTER, HIGHLANDER'S CLAIM, HIGHLANDER'S COURAGE, HIGHLANDER'S CRAVING.

Regency Brides Series: THE DUKE'S BRIDE, THE EARL'S BRIDE, THE WARTIME BRIDE, THE SECRET BRIDE.

Princesses of Myth Series: PROTECTOR, WARRIOR, HUNTER, ENCHANTER, HEALER, CHASER.

Billionaire Bodyguards Series: BILLIONAIRE BODYGUARD ATTRACTION, BILLIONARE BODYGUARD BOSS, BILLIONAIRE BODYGUARD FLING.

Reviews

[Cali Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweetly sexy, emotionally thrilling, action packed romantic adventure filled with danger, secrets, uncertainty and unquenchable longing..... this is a great read with a sexy, charming and determined protective hero and his witty, charming and resourceful lady love. Great read.

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

THE EARL'S BRIDE Joanne Wadsworth is book Two in the "Regency Brides" series. This is the story of James Hargrove, the Earl of Donnelly and Lady Sophia Trentbury. I have read the previous book but feel this can be a standalone book.
James was not supposed to inherit the family title but after his father and brothers death he did. James had set out to work with the Royal Hussars and give his life to the his country, but that has changed. Now with his title he is looking to find out what happened to his family.
Sophia cares for James and only wants to help him with his investigation into the death of his father and brother. James wants to keep Sophia safe and at arms link but Sophia isn't having any of that and tries to do what she can for him.
Really exciting story...loved it!

[Tiffany (Bluestocking) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was quite nice. Very light and quick with a tiny hint of intrigue and danger. I liked how the MC’s kept the women in the loop. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read of MMC’s keeping the females in the dark, assuming that they would be safer if they were ignorant. It does work sometimes but more often than not, ignorance leads them headlong into the same danger the MMC was hoping to avoid.

Anywho, I liked that everyone communicated well. The ending was a tad rushed and while James and Sofia’s story was wrapped up, the suspense continues in the following book with Sofia’s sister Olivia. This book is by no means extraordinary but it did help pass the time so I’m looking forward to continuing.

Content: Clean, Steamy kisses, Mild innuendo.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast paced story full of mystery, suspense and wonderful characters that will not let you go until the end. James Hargrove is determined to find who murdered his father and older brother. Although ruled an accident he knows differently. Lady Sophia is just as determined to help him and will not back down. You see, she has loved James for a long time and she feels he cares for her too. There are many twists and turns but I fell in love with these two characters and their great attraction although he tried to fight it! Be prepared to not be able to put this one down until the end!!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

James is looking for the person or persons responsible for his father's and brothers death and he's also trying to keep the woman he loves safe from the murderer. Sophia is doing everything she can get James to admit he loves her and wants her as his bride but he says he is keeping her St arm's length to protect her from the murderer.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tina Ullrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to apologize as I had to re-read this story since I forgot to post my review. With that being said here it is....

The Earl's Bride brings recency romance, intrigue, and some pirates woven into a very compelling story. It brings back characters from The Duke's Bride, Ashten and Ellie, along with Captain Bourbon.
James Donnelly has to face the death of his father and brother. This he knows was done with foul means. He has set the task of finding the killer for himself. While all believe their deaths an accident, James does not. Both were found flouting in the Thames River and were excellent swimmers, this is his starting point. From here we travel to dark and dangerous taverns to find missing treasure and the killer.

Finding who stole the treasure was no surprise, however, finding who the killer is was a great plot twist. For in finding what Lady Sophia knows gives us the killer and why along with the evidence. Lady Sophia, Donnelly's love, helps with information from her last chat with his father.

Can all end well for these two or is death to take a third Donnelly?? Find out in this rousing, fast read by a wonderful, creative author. Hats off to Joanne Wadsworth for a great story that is entertaining and lively.

[Rosemary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Hargrove, the Earl of Donnelly, is on a mission. He's determined to find who murdered his father and older brother. Even though he loves Lady Sophia, he rejects her. He doesn't realize that his lady isn't easily discouraged. Can he find the killer and get the answers he needs? James won't quit even though the deaths are ruled accidental. I liked his determination. I just didn't want him to turn his back on true love. Sophia knows in her heart that James is her one true love. She won't let him walk away. She's such a feisty lady. She wants to be there at his side. I enjoyed the combination of suspense and romance. The attraction between these two is amazing. Joanne Wadsworth is such a talented author. I love her characters. I felt a connection and I cared what happens to them. The dialogue sparkles and sizzles which increases the emotional drama. The Earl's Bride is a very satisfying story. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Marichus Real · Rating 4 out of 5]

James needs to know who killed his father and brother because he is totally sure they have been killed.
Sophia can’t stop loving James and she is worried about his security. She is determined to help him discover the killer of his father and brother.
I like how he is unable to stay away from her for too long. She is like a magnet which keeps pulling him to her. And I love what he has kept doing since the very first day they meet. So sweet!
However, the idea of a seer and grown-up men believing in her is a bit odd but I think it is a valid link to the development of the story and to justify certain scenes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely tale of mystery and adventure! At times I felt like I was IN the story... seeing what they saw, drawing me in for an adventure! 
I loved Sophia's boldness and responses to James, the man who captured her heart before going off to join the Hussars. And even after he returns to deal with the deaths of his father and brother, she's determined to remain by his side, still in love with him. James tried keeping her at arms length to protect her from whomever had killed his father and brother, yet he couldn't resist her charms nor let her entertain thoughts of being with another man.
It's stories like this that keep the hope alive that a love like theirs is always possible!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Joanna Wadsworth has written a book where the characters drag you in and become part of your life while you are reading there story

James Hargrove, the Earl of Donnelly is determined to fins out who killed his father and brother it may have been ruled as a accidental death but he didn't believe that. If it means he has to walk away from Lady Sophia to get the answers he wants then he will do that too. Only problem the Lady Sophia has no intentions of letting him walk away and she will do what she needs to for him to get his answers. There is plenty of suspense and drama to keep you turning the pages in this wonderful story

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

5++ Stars!!!

Wow! James and Sophia's book is awesome! I was hooked on this book from page one. The Earl's Bride has everything- romance, action, mystery, love and humor. There are many twists and turns during this adventure and I was left on the edge of my seat, more than once when a chapter was finished. There were many plot twists that I did not see coming and I loved finding out just where these characters would take us. I cannot wait for the next book in this great new series from Ms Wadsworth! Thank you for another wonderful book!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He was all set to join the army to serve king and country. His father and brother have been murdered and he now has the title. He is going to find out what happened. She has loved him for so long and she is worried for him when he wants to find out who killed his family. She is going to help him no matter what. Will they find out who killed his family? Will they be safe? Will love finally reach them? See how they get on

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book. The story line is well written with great characters, a lot of suspense, romance, theft and danger. Harry has determined he can’t court Sophia until he discovers who murdered his father and brother in order to keep her safe. The book is a great continuation of this series and I would highly recommend it.

[Laila Viking · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet romance between two characters that had to let go and take a chance on the person they were attracted to. She knew she wanted him and did not let him slide away. He had some issues because of his past but he had to let them go before they could have their HEA. A great and well written journey towards their HEA.
Recommendable.

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Second to the series, and yes can be read alone but more enjoyable when reading with the rest of the series.

If you are reading off the heels of the previous book you see Ashten and his friend. I like that this was here to help pull you back into the series and remind you of the previous characters.

This book does not have a huge cast but they do name drop to other who will show up or others who have shown their faces in the previous book.

[Shelby Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Betrayed

Returning from war because his father died and three days his brother in the same fashion, is beyond suspicious! He is determined to find out the answers, along with his best friend the Duke to help him and also the lady he left behind when he went to war! Very interesting read.

[Phylis Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl's Bride by Joanne Wadsworth is a very entertaining, well written story. Full of mystery and is intriguing. My free opinion. Thanks.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in this series called Regency Brides and I will be reading this book again. A well-written story that I was not putting down until it was finished. I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ann L · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read this author's shifter series and thought i would give this a go, I am glad i did, this is a really thoughtfully written story

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Evonne Hutton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two hearts entwined but with both his father and his brother murdered he needs to find the culprit before he endangers his loved one!
A well written Regency romance

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous romance. Are usually worried about the emotions but this book it was just a wonderful romance nothing I’d want to miss. Sweet and sensual with a fabulous ending and romance. And sensual sexual reading. Not to be missed

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The search for a killer provide an interesting backdrop to the story of James and Sophia. Who would have thought there were so many twists and turns for so many familiar characters! Entertaining, suspenseful with a touch of steam and a HEA made this enjoyable read.

[Xantippi Leska · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Joanne Wadsworth's books, and this one was no exception. I loved how Sophia knew what she wanted and wasn't going to let it go and James, as hard as he tried, couldn't resist her.

[Betsie Erickson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3½ 🌟

[Honey Bee Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

RTC

[Cary · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sweet and clean but a bit tedious in the middle.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Smart Heroine Who Will Not Be Ignored!

I adored this book! Regency is probably my favorite subgenre of historical romance, and this writer did it up right!

The hero and heroine formerly courted, but James broke it off before he went to fight in the Napoleonic wars (second son), not wanting to have Sophia wait in case he didn't return. He does return two months later after both his father and elder brother die in what he thinks are mysterious circumstances. Now the earl, he is determined to figure out what happened to his father and brother, and he is determined to keep Sophia safe by not resuming the courtship while he still feels his family is in danger. He tells her decidedly that she must look elsewhere for a husband (all the while wishing that man could be him!). While James was away, Sophia kept up her friendship with his sister. She hasn't completely forgiven him for severing the courtship, but she knows he is the one man for her. She convinces him to at least let her continue being friends with his sister, but she is definitely hoping he will change his mind about marrying her.

Sophia was written beautifully! She's a smart lady, one that other books would derisively call a "bluestocking," but in this book, she talks about current breakthroughs in steam technology and her informed opinions of what the future will be like without anyone saying that a woman should know or understand these kinds of things. That happens a lot in historical romance but not here. Quite refreshing! She also is adept at playing a cat-and-mouse game with James. They banter and tease each other in a way that you can't be helped but caught up in; she often gets the upperhand in the conversation.

The author also has a good sense of plot structure. For example, at the quarter mark (end of Act 1), the romance story line heats up AND James gets a clue that will lead him in his investigations of the circumstances around his father's and brother's deaths (found by Sophia no less!).

The book is meant to be a sweet version of her more steamy The Earl's Bride, but their attraction (and the ways they acted on it) were still satisfying. I find myself wondering how she wrote the other version.

If you like Regency romance, I think you will enjoy this slightly different take on the genre!

I received a free advance copy, but that did not influence my review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Hargrove, the Earl of Donnelly, resolved that he had to discover who had murdered his father and brother. The official investigation had been concluded for two months now and their deaths ruled as accidental, each having drowned three nights apart near his father’s warehouses along the Thames River. This was too coincidental to be an accident! His friend, The Duke of Ashten, reminded him that so far, they had not made much progress.

Ashten had suggested asking Captain Anteros Bourbon -- a spymaster with connections to the underworld -- for assistance, especially since they were sure there was foul play involved. James had tracked down the Captain. He told him also about a further mystery concerning a sunken treasure missing from the War Office where James' father and brother had sent it, and this had particularly gotten Captain Bourbon’s attention. Ashten and James made plans to search among papers the next day at the warehouse to see if there were any helpful clues there.

Ashten had brought along his new wife and his sister-in-law, Lady Sophia Trentbury, with whom James had broken off his courtship before he went away to fight in the war. So matters could get a bit awkward and James was glad the ladies walked in the garden while the men talked. Sophia was a strong, intelligent woman, and not willing to just walk away from James, despite his trying to push her away for her safety. In fact, she was even more determined to help him with the investigation! Would they indeed find something to lead them to the murderer?

This tame version of The Earl’s Bride has everything a reader would want in a great story! There was mystery, suspense, and romance enough to keep an avid reader happy! The characters were well presented and Lady Sophia was my personal favorite! You won’t want to miss this one to see if she finally convinces James of exactly what he needs as she diligently searches for clues!

[Deb Diem · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Earl's Secret Bride is an amazing historical romance by Joanne Wadsworth. Ms. Wadsworth has really wowed me with this fantastic story. She has delivered a well-written, smooth read. I totally love the characters in this story. James is investigating his father and brother's murder while trying to keep Sophia at arms length to keep her safe. Sophia is determined to help with the investigation and reunite with James. Their story is fast-paced and loaded with action, suspense, humor and sizzle. This is one of those books you can't put down once you start reading. I loved this story and look forward to reading more from Joanne Wadsworth in the future. The Earl's Secret Bride is book 2 of the Regency Brides Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.

I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.