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The Raven Club #1
How to Tempt an Earl
London society is cruel for a young woman whose father is an avid gambler. Miss Grace Ashton is not one to stand idly by while her family becomes destitute. Donning a mask, she slips into the night and attends the infamous Raven Club to confront the proprietor. But nothing prepares her for the sinfully attractive and wealthy Ian Swift.
Ian is intrigued when Grace walks into his gambling club but refuses her offer of a few jewels to pay her father’s large debts. Unbeknownst to anyone, Ian has inherited the Earldom of Castleton, and he must reluctantly take his place in Society. But Ian’s manners as a gentleman have suffered. He needs a tutor, and he knows the exquisite lady standing before him is the answer.
But soon tutoring turns to flirting, which unfortunately lands both of them in…marriage?
Ian is intrigued when Grace walks into his gambling club but refuses her offer of a few jewels to pay her father’s large debts. Unbeknownst to anyone, Ian has inherited the Earldom of Castleton, and he must reluctantly take his place in Society. But Ian’s manners as a gentleman have suffered. He needs a tutor, and he knows the exquisite lady standing before him is the answer.
But soon tutoring turns to flirting, which unfortunately lands both of them in…marriage?
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2018
129 people are currently reading
401 people want to read
About the author
Tina Gabrielle
40 books419 followersAmazon best-selling author Tina Gabrielle is an attorney and mechanical engineer whose love of reading for pleasure helped her get through years of academia. She often picked up a romance and let her fantasies of knights in shining armor and lords and ladies carry her away.
Tina’s books have been Barnes & Noble top picks, and her first book, "Lady Of Scandal," was nominated as best first historical romance by Romantic Times Book Reviews. Tina loves to hear from readers. Please visit her website to learn about upcoming releases and to join her newsletter and enter to win free monthly contests and giveaways. www.tinagabrielle.com
Tina’s books have been Barnes & Noble top picks, and her first book, "Lady Of Scandal," was nominated as best first historical romance by Romantic Times Book Reviews. Tina loves to hear from readers. Please visit her website to learn about upcoming releases and to join her newsletter and enter to win free monthly contests and giveaways. www.tinagabrielle.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 14, 2018
How to Tempt an Earl by Tina Gabrielle is book One in The Raven Club Series. This is the series of Grace Ashton and Ian Swift.
Grace's father has a gambling addiction that is starting to hurt the family. Grace puts on a disguise and goes to confront the owner of the Raven and offer some jewels for payment of her father bills. But he wants something more from her. Ian has inherited a title, the Earldom of Castleton. Ian thinks Grace would be the perfect tutor to get him where he needs to be for the title....but they both might end up more from the deal.
Really enjoyed this book....could not put it down.
Grace's father has a gambling addiction that is starting to hurt the family. Grace puts on a disguise and goes to confront the owner of the Raven and offer some jewels for payment of her father bills. But he wants something more from her. Ian has inherited a title, the Earldom of Castleton. Ian thinks Grace would be the perfect tutor to get him where he needs to be for the title....but they both might end up more from the deal.
Really enjoyed this book....could not put it down.
April 25, 2018
3.5/5. Grace Ashton is a the daughter of a Baron, one hell-bent on drowning himself in grog and miring himself in greater financial debts daily through gambling. Desperate, she seeks out Ian Swift, the owner of one of her father's most frequented gambling clubs, hoping to pay off the amount owed with the few remaining jewellery pieces she has left in her possession. When the debt turns out to be a staggering amount she cannot match, Ian eventually persuades her to lend her assistance to him in exchange for wiping out the arrears owed. It turns out that Ian is the new Earl of Castleton, a title he reluctantly is forced to accept following the death of his older brother, a death Ian continues to suffer guilt and self-blame over. His mother, the dowager countess, is emotionally blackmailing him into finally steeping into the role of the earl, what with 2 younger sisters on the cusp of making their debuts and needing his support. He has been away from polite society for so long, he requires Grace's guidance to make him more presentable and civilised. Left with little choice, Grace grudgingly agrees to this undertaking.
It's not exactly an original premise, but the writing was solid if not quite exciting. The plot moved along very quickly, which meant that the details were a bit lacking at times. There were also minor plot inconsistencies, but overall both MCs were likeable and it was a pleasant read.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley.
It's not exactly an original premise, but the writing was solid if not quite exciting. The plot moved along very quickly, which meant that the details were a bit lacking at times. There were also minor plot inconsistencies, but overall both MCs were likeable and it was a pleasant read.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley.
May 6, 2025
I really love this author. I read a few awhile back and always planned to come back and read more.
She has good depth of characters. I loved Grace and Ian. What a great couple. It was also a great storyline. I love the "bad boy" and "innocent" lady stories.
Can't wait until I read the rest of this series. It's going to be good.
She has good depth of characters. I loved Grace and Ian. What a great couple. It was also a great storyline. I love the "bad boy" and "innocent" lady stories.
Can't wait until I read the rest of this series. It's going to be good.
November 11, 2021
Am I becoming somewhat jaded? This new contribution to the vastly growing Regency trope of rakish casino owner (Ian Swift—who’s suddenly inherited an earldom) meets miss (Grace Ashton) with either a relative (father—Baron Newbury) with a problem or else needs employment is well done but not the most engaging I've read. Still this title is a good entry into this genre.
All characters are believable and there is a satisfying conclusion.
A Kensington Books 2018 ARC via NetGalley
All characters are believable and there is a satisfying conclusion.
A Kensington Books 2018 ARC via NetGalley
May 12, 2018
Grace Ashton is desperate to stop her father from gambling everything away. There is only one person who might be able to stop him, the owner of the club he gambles in. She already secretly works to help pay the bills, but it's not enough to save them from ruin.
Ian Swift the new Earl of Castleton has owned and run "The Raven" casino for years. He doesn't see why he needs to change his life just because his brother died.
This is an amusing and at times emotional story. The characters are fun and not above using guilt to get their own way.
Family, and what we will do for them is the mainstay of the story. Our intelligent heroine will try anything to save her family from ruin. Our stubborn hero is determined to have his cake and eat it.
I thoroughly enjoyable read.
Ian Swift the new Earl of Castleton has owned and run "The Raven" casino for years. He doesn't see why he needs to change his life just because his brother died.
This is an amusing and at times emotional story. The characters are fun and not above using guilt to get their own way.
Family, and what we will do for them is the mainstay of the story. Our intelligent heroine will try anything to save her family from ruin. Our stubborn hero is determined to have his cake and eat it.
I thoroughly enjoyable read.
August 19, 2018
Short review: I LOVED IT!
A young woman, who wants to save her family. A man who owns a gambling hell and is the reason for her family’s problems. Meet Grace Ashton and Ian, the Earl of Castleton. He is the owner of the Raven Club, an infamous gambling hell. She is the daughter of a gambler.
Do I need to say more?
Because he inherited the earldom, he needs a tutor in good manors and society rules. Grace needs him to stop her father from gambling everything away. Can they come together? Can they arrange a deal?
Oh, I loved the story of those two very different individuals. When she steps into his bedroom the first time because he wants to show her his new cloths, he probably doesn’t think about this being scandalous. But he also wants his sisters to live with him, something that isn’t easy to achieve. He needs to be somebody he never wanted to be, being the spare.
5 stars!
*I got this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
A young woman, who wants to save her family. A man who owns a gambling hell and is the reason for her family’s problems. Meet Grace Ashton and Ian, the Earl of Castleton. He is the owner of the Raven Club, an infamous gambling hell. She is the daughter of a gambler.
Do I need to say more?
Because he inherited the earldom, he needs a tutor in good manors and society rules. Grace needs him to stop her father from gambling everything away. Can they come together? Can they arrange a deal?
Oh, I loved the story of those two very different individuals. When she steps into his bedroom the first time because he wants to show her his new cloths, he probably doesn’t think about this being scandalous. But he also wants his sisters to live with him, something that isn’t easy to achieve. He needs to be somebody he never wanted to be, being the spare.
5 stars!
*I got this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
May 14, 2018
This fast paced adventure held me spellbound.. From the very beginning I was intrigued that a proper young lady was masked and entering a gambling hell, the Raven Club to bargain with the owner over her father's gambling debts. What you say? It is the old story of gambling away all their funds but with a definite twist as Grace Ashton, seemingly an innocent is determined. What she finds is Ian Swift, the recently titled Earl of Carleton, not giving an inch. Indeed he is amazed at her audacity but will not take her jewelry as payment. Grace really begs him to not let her father in the club but as Ian pointed out he would just go elsewhere.
Ian was suffering his own problems with his mother pushing him to take his place in polite society so that his sisters could have their come out. He has been doing what he wanted for years and was really not fit to be seen. So he develops a plan to have Grace get him into shape to be the proper gentleman he needs to be to help his sisters. Can the plan work?
Tina Gabrielle has an amazing writing style that actually kept me up into the night until I turned the last page. I truly could not put it down once I started. The characters came to life and I felt for Ian and Grace and in the end they needed to save each other. One of my favorite trope. This was the first book by the author I have read but I have to say, I cannot wait to read more!!
Ian was suffering his own problems with his mother pushing him to take his place in polite society so that his sisters could have their come out. He has been doing what he wanted for years and was really not fit to be seen. So he develops a plan to have Grace get him into shape to be the proper gentleman he needs to be to help his sisters. Can the plan work?
Tina Gabrielle has an amazing writing style that actually kept me up into the night until I turned the last page. I truly could not put it down once I started. The characters came to life and I felt for Ian and Grace and in the end they needed to save each other. One of my favorite trope. This was the first book by the author I have read but I have to say, I cannot wait to read more!!
May 19, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ out of 5
Abso-frickin-lutely loved this book! While I think the whole gambling club owner trope has been done A LOT this was a much less angsty version and I loved both characters immensely!
.
The story revolves around the heroine, the daughter of a baron, who is desperate to pay off her father’s gambling debts by meeting with the club’s owner and offering him her deceased mother’s jewels. Enter the hero, the club owner, who declines the payment but makes her a different offer- tutor him to become a gentleman (he has just become an earl- queue gasps here 😱). She agrees, and after being caught in a (very) heated embrace together they are forced to wed (love this trope).
.
One of the things I loved most about this book was actually the lack of angst. The heroine is a go-getter- not only in approaching the club owner but in finding a secret job so she can pay the servants wages. None of this laying around and despairing over circumstances (I so relate to this on a personal level). The hero has made something of himself and has no regrets, he also has hidden depths that make him so much more than a gambling club owner. Together sparks fly 💥💥 between the 2 and leave me so thoroughly satisfied that I couldn’t put it down (nor did I want to).
Abso-frickin-lutely loved this book! While I think the whole gambling club owner trope has been done A LOT this was a much less angsty version and I loved both characters immensely!
.
The story revolves around the heroine, the daughter of a baron, who is desperate to pay off her father’s gambling debts by meeting with the club’s owner and offering him her deceased mother’s jewels. Enter the hero, the club owner, who declines the payment but makes her a different offer- tutor him to become a gentleman (he has just become an earl- queue gasps here 😱). She agrees, and after being caught in a (very) heated embrace together they are forced to wed (love this trope).
.
One of the things I loved most about this book was actually the lack of angst. The heroine is a go-getter- not only in approaching the club owner but in finding a secret job so she can pay the servants wages. None of this laying around and despairing over circumstances (I so relate to this on a personal level). The hero has made something of himself and has no regrets, he also has hidden depths that make him so much more than a gambling club owner. Together sparks fly 💥💥 between the 2 and leave me so thoroughly satisfied that I couldn’t put it down (nor did I want to).
May 1, 2022
2 stars
This is my first book by Tina Gabrielle and I would definitely try her again, but this book wasn't anything special in my mind and I ended up skimming quite a bit. I was annoyed from the beginning, because it was definitely an insta-lust story, and while that can work for me sometimes, it can also get boring. Ian is immediately drawn/intrigued/whatever to Grace the minute she walks into his gaming hall, mask and hooded cloak included, and within minutes he's thinking of having sex with her and getting hard. It's just like ... woah, ease up there boy. Grace, for her part, acted stupidly sometimes and her responses or reactions didn't always make complete sense.
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
This is my first book by Tina Gabrielle and I would definitely try her again, but this book wasn't anything special in my mind and I ended up skimming quite a bit. I was annoyed from the beginning, because it was definitely an insta-lust story, and while that can work for me sometimes, it can also get boring. Ian is immediately drawn/intrigued/whatever to Grace the minute she walks into his gaming hall, mask and hooded cloak included, and within minutes he's thinking of having sex with her and getting hard. It's just like ... woah, ease up there boy. Grace, for her part, acted stupidly sometimes and her responses or reactions didn't always make complete sense.
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
May 17, 2018
Grace Ashton and Ian Swift, the Earl of Castleton, meet when Grace goes to the Raven to confront Ian.
Grace's father, Baron Newbury has been gambling and has left his family on the brink of ruin. If not for Grace's indomitable spirit and her keen intelligence, her family would have been destitute long ago.
Ian Swift has no desire to be earl, but at his mother's insistence and for his younger sister's sake, he agrees to try and take his place in society. But after ten years of living as he pleases outside the ton, he knows he needs help acclimating to polite company. Unable to forget the spitfire who demanded she refuse to let her father gamble at his club, he hatches a plan. He offers her a deal, she tutors him and he will forgive her father's considerable debt. With no other choice, Grace accepts.
They meet in secret and she instructs him, they are drawn to each other, but Grace hates gambling and would never be with a man who owns a gambling club. And Ian is married to his club, no woman could ever compare and he will never give it up.
When these two are caught in a heated kiss by his mother and one of the tons biggest gossips, his mother demands that they marry. Ian knows Grace won't marry him as long as he owns the club, so he tells her he will sell the club. But at the wedding breakfast, Grace overhears Ian and his mother arguing and she learns the truth - Ian will not sell the club, he didn't want to marry her and if she gives him any trouble, he will ship her off to the country.
Enraged, Grace tells Ian that theirs will be a marriage in name only. He leaves her to go to his club, but returns to find her in his library - looking at the ledgers for the club. He seduces her and asks her to visit the club. She agrees and when they go, she understands the allure of the club, but she still hates gambling. Ian becomes concerned with his feelings for Grace and begins to distance himself during the day.
Things come to a head when Grace's father is brought to the house bloodied and beaten. Grace loves Ian, but can no longer live this half life with him and issues an ultimatum - Grace or the Raven.
These two have a rough road to their HEA. They are both stubborn in their beliefs and nether is willing to give up their ideals for the other, secrets will be revealed, choices will be made and more than one tear will be shed before they finally decide love is worth the sacrifice. This book is a page turner, there are steamy love scenes, engaging secondary characters, secrets, lies and finally a HEA with an epilogue.
I enjoyed this story, but I think Grace caved to Ian way too quickly. But overall, it was a very good story and I would happily recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Grace's father, Baron Newbury has been gambling and has left his family on the brink of ruin. If not for Grace's indomitable spirit and her keen intelligence, her family would have been destitute long ago.
Ian Swift has no desire to be earl, but at his mother's insistence and for his younger sister's sake, he agrees to try and take his place in society. But after ten years of living as he pleases outside the ton, he knows he needs help acclimating to polite company. Unable to forget the spitfire who demanded she refuse to let her father gamble at his club, he hatches a plan. He offers her a deal, she tutors him and he will forgive her father's considerable debt. With no other choice, Grace accepts.
They meet in secret and she instructs him, they are drawn to each other, but Grace hates gambling and would never be with a man who owns a gambling club. And Ian is married to his club, no woman could ever compare and he will never give it up.
When these two are caught in a heated kiss by his mother and one of the tons biggest gossips, his mother demands that they marry. Ian knows Grace won't marry him as long as he owns the club, so he tells her he will sell the club. But at the wedding breakfast, Grace overhears Ian and his mother arguing and she learns the truth - Ian will not sell the club, he didn't want to marry her and if she gives him any trouble, he will ship her off to the country.
Enraged, Grace tells Ian that theirs will be a marriage in name only. He leaves her to go to his club, but returns to find her in his library - looking at the ledgers for the club. He seduces her and asks her to visit the club. She agrees and when they go, she understands the allure of the club, but she still hates gambling. Ian becomes concerned with his feelings for Grace and begins to distance himself during the day.
Things come to a head when Grace's father is brought to the house bloodied and beaten. Grace loves Ian, but can no longer live this half life with him and issues an ultimatum - Grace or the Raven.
These two have a rough road to their HEA. They are both stubborn in their beliefs and nether is willing to give up their ideals for the other, secrets will be revealed, choices will be made and more than one tear will be shed before they finally decide love is worth the sacrifice. This book is a page turner, there are steamy love scenes, engaging secondary characters, secrets, lies and finally a HEA with an epilogue.
I enjoyed this story, but I think Grace caved to Ian way too quickly. But overall, it was a very good story and I would happily recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
May 19, 2018
Grace Ashton is one determined woman, but convincing Ian Swift to accept payment for her father's debts or to help her isn't going to be easy. However, when Ian proposes to wipe her father's debts in exchange for helping him re-enter society, Grace accepts the deal. But when things start to heat up between them, will they find themselves tied together forever to avoid a scandal or will they both walk away from their chance at happy ever after?
What a brilliant start to this new series Ms. Gabrielle has delivered in this book where the main characters captivated my attention from the moment they were introduced and kept me entertained from start to finish due to their back stories and everything they go through on their journey to happy ever after including whether the hero can overcome his past to be with the heroine. However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine come face-to-face for the first time where this story drew me in completely, as the heroine is determined to get the hero to listen to her. Will she succeed in her plan?
As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories, especially that of the hero, because secrets have a way of coming out and I could understand why he chose to walk away from everything the way he did. No way would he allow his father to dictate his life the way the man had planned. Moreover, I could sympathize with the hero because it mustn't have been easy to be him growing up and feeling so unwelcome because of what his mother did. However, he's done well for himself, despite everything his father put him through and I liked how far he's come in his life. He's successful, confident and I liked that he didn't allow anything to stand in the way of what he wanted. Will he be able to win the heroine over? While the heroine, she's resilient, courageous and I liked that she would do anything for her family, even if it means putting herself in a situation that might not be safe and could land her in trouble if anyone knew she was visiting such a place as the hero's establishment. I also liked how much of a challenge she provides the hero because he needs someone that doesn't give in or give up easily.
Overall, Ms. Gabrielle has penned a fantastic read in this book, which has me looking forward to more of this series and where the chemistry between this couple was intense; the romance wonderful because Ian certainly knows how to treat a woman right, especially one so inexperienced; and the ending had me loving the hero's words to the heroine because he wants her in his life and nothing is more important to him than her. I would recommend How to Tempt an Earl by Tina Gabrielle, if you enjoy Historical Romance, the opposites attract trope, or books by authors Stacy Reid, Jess Michaels, Darcy Burke and Tara Kingston.
June 7, 2018
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I enjoy historical romances set in England and How to Tempt an Earl did not disappoint. Grace and Ian had an immediate chemistry and felt the zing when they met under less than ideal circumstances – at his gaming club, The Raven Club. From there their attraction kept ratcheting up a notch throughout the story except when it wasn’t. They didn’t always see eye to eye but seemed to understand each other better than some of their family and friends.
Grace is in her third season and with a dwindling dowry isn’t sure how she can keep her family afloat. With a young brother, a dad who both drinks and gambles to excess, and a household staff to support she becomes creative. When Ian needs a tutor to get him back into society things get hot and spicy fast! I loved the interactions between them. They both had a depth to them that the other didn’t realize. They liked what they saw as they got to know each other as friends, or do they? There was a nice flow to the story and a few twists and turns along the way. The characters who rounded out the story were a nice addition. There was a happily ever after or is there since Grace and Ian don’t always see eye to eye and she’s not meek and mild by any means. The epilogue which takes place six months after the story ends gave me the closure and glimpse into the future I was hoping for. I look forward to reading more books in the Ravens Club series.
Ms. Gabrielle is a new to me author. I have added a few of her other books to my always growing TBR pile.
Favorite Quote: She wanted to point out that she’d be far safer were she not ensconced with him in a conveyance. Everything about him was large, and she was all too aware of the breadth of his shoulders, his distinctive shaving soap, and his long legs. The interior of the spacious carriage suddenly seemed very small.
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I enjoy historical romances set in England and How to Tempt an Earl did not disappoint. Grace and Ian had an immediate chemistry and felt the zing when they met under less than ideal circumstances – at his gaming club, The Raven Club. From there their attraction kept ratcheting up a notch throughout the story except when it wasn’t. They didn’t always see eye to eye but seemed to understand each other better than some of their family and friends.
Grace is in her third season and with a dwindling dowry isn’t sure how she can keep her family afloat. With a young brother, a dad who both drinks and gambles to excess, and a household staff to support she becomes creative. When Ian needs a tutor to get him back into society things get hot and spicy fast! I loved the interactions between them. They both had a depth to them that the other didn’t realize. They liked what they saw as they got to know each other as friends, or do they? There was a nice flow to the story and a few twists and turns along the way. The characters who rounded out the story were a nice addition. There was a happily ever after or is there since Grace and Ian don’t always see eye to eye and she’s not meek and mild by any means. The epilogue which takes place six months after the story ends gave me the closure and glimpse into the future I was hoping for. I look forward to reading more books in the Ravens Club series.
Ms. Gabrielle is a new to me author. I have added a few of her other books to my always growing TBR pile.
Favorite Quote: She wanted to point out that she’d be far safer were she not ensconced with him in a conveyance. Everything about him was large, and she was all too aware of the breadth of his shoulders, his distinctive shaving soap, and his long legs. The interior of the spacious carriage suddenly seemed very small.
May 28, 2018
How to Tempt an Earl is a pretty sweet book by Tina Gabrielle. Grace is in an awful spot, her father is a gambler and is losing more and more since her mother died. She has a younger brother who will have no inheritance whatsoever if her father continues his ways. Grace is determined to block her father's gambling and drinking, she decides to visit his favorite gambling and demands to speak to the owner, Ian.
Ian is sexy and oh so sinful in Grace's eyes. Of course, he refuses to help her block her father's game play at his club. But Ian is instantly attracted to Grace and makes her a deal - he will help her deal with her father if she helps tutor him for his entree back into society.
Grace agrees, she's stuck between a rock and a hard place, but quickly realizes there is more to Ian than the hardened gambling club owner displays to his peers. He has two younger sisters who he loves and wants to see them make grand happy marriages.
These tutoring sessions start to heat up and inevitably Grace and Ian will be caught and Grace compromised. But Grace has a real moral dilemma on her hands - can she marry a man who has helped engineer her father's downfall? And worse yet, can she fall in love with the same man?
There is very obvious heat and chemistry between Grace and Ian and they light up the pages when they are together. Ian hides behind his rakish demeanor and Grace struggles to present a perfect picture of herself while in society.
Highly recommended for historical romance readers who enjoy a passionate marriage of convenience trope and solid, likable, realistic characters who richly deserve a happy ending.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ian is sexy and oh so sinful in Grace's eyes. Of course, he refuses to help her block her father's game play at his club. But Ian is instantly attracted to Grace and makes her a deal - he will help her deal with her father if she helps tutor him for his entree back into society.
Grace agrees, she's stuck between a rock and a hard place, but quickly realizes there is more to Ian than the hardened gambling club owner displays to his peers. He has two younger sisters who he loves and wants to see them make grand happy marriages.
These tutoring sessions start to heat up and inevitably Grace and Ian will be caught and Grace compromised. But Grace has a real moral dilemma on her hands - can she marry a man who has helped engineer her father's downfall? And worse yet, can she fall in love with the same man?
There is very obvious heat and chemistry between Grace and Ian and they light up the pages when they are together. Ian hides behind his rakish demeanor and Grace struggles to present a perfect picture of herself while in society.
Highly recommended for historical romance readers who enjoy a passionate marriage of convenience trope and solid, likable, realistic characters who richly deserve a happy ending.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2018
This was one of those stories that lands solidly in the middle for me. On one hand the author had a fluid and solid writing style which for me made the story pass by both quickly and interestingly. On the other hand, I feel as though there was more the author could have explored that they did not.
I enjoyed these two characters to a point - however I did not like how quickly Grace seems to capitulate to Ian even after hearing some pretty hurtful things. He was a downright brute in how he spoke after they were married, and yet she seemed pretty keen to overlook both that and her earlier resolve regarding him. There was also the matter of his elder brother's death. It was brought up enough throughout the course of the story (as well as the supposed scandal surrounding it) that I expected it to play a greater role in this story than it actually did.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story that I do believe will appeal to those who enjoy historical romance. I would read more from this author (and in fact, I hope she does future stories on Ian's sisters when they make their debuts as I have no doubt they both have interesting stories to tell).
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
I enjoyed these two characters to a point - however I did not like how quickly Grace seems to capitulate to Ian even after hearing some pretty hurtful things. He was a downright brute in how he spoke after they were married, and yet she seemed pretty keen to overlook both that and her earlier resolve regarding him. There was also the matter of his elder brother's death. It was brought up enough throughout the course of the story (as well as the supposed scandal surrounding it) that I expected it to play a greater role in this story than it actually did.
Overall, this was an enjoyable story that I do believe will appeal to those who enjoy historical romance. I would read more from this author (and in fact, I hope she does future stories on Ian's sisters when they make their debuts as I have no doubt they both have interesting stories to tell).
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
May 3, 2018
Great story with wonderful chemistry between the h and H. Look forward to more by this author. Our h, desperate to end her fathers gambling and pay off his debts, approaches the H, owner of a gambling hell. Finding the debt far higher than expected, she leaves disappointed. The..
As a new Earl, the H must introduce his two sisters to society, and agrees to forgive her fathers debt, if she will educate him in proper behavior for society. Mutually attracted, they are caught in a compromising position by his mother and a society widow, and must marry. She agrees to marry him only if he gets rid of the club, he agrees, but has no intention of doing so. The couple is really delightful, and I’m sure more books will be coming in this series.
As a new Earl, the H must introduce his two sisters to society, and agrees to forgive her fathers debt, if she will educate him in proper behavior for society. Mutually attracted, they are caught in a compromising position by his mother and a society widow, and must marry. She agrees to marry him only if he gets rid of the club, he agrees, but has no intention of doing so. The couple is really delightful, and I’m sure more books will be coming in this series.
May 3, 2018
A definite buy book. A truly enjoyable read that keeps you turning the pages. An author that is a gifted story teller as well as one with a wonderful imagination that captures her readers. From page one to the final you will not be disappointed. I truly enjoy her sense of humor that she weaves within her stories as well as the characters and plot lines that are not one dimensional. All in all a good read! SO buy the book and sit and just enjoy a good read! I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley
Regards, Anna Swedenmom
Regards, Anna Swedenmom
May 14, 2018
How to Tempt an Earl Grace is a great heroine. She doesn't sit idly by and let life happen to her. She sets about changing the odds. Even if it lands her in more trouble than she could have thought possible. Ian is used to playing the odds, but his heart is thrown a curve when a seductive temptress graces his doorstep. She has demands, he needs a favor and it just so happens they each fit the bill. Will a luck of draw mean deuces for their arrangement or will love deal them a winning hand?
April 26, 2018
I absolutely loved Grace and Ian's story!!
Grace doesn't know what else to do about her father's gambling debts, so she approaches the owner of the club about settling the debts and about keeping her father from the club. She doesn't count on Ian having conditions of his own for his agreement. He must re-enter society and he needs her help in refining his manners. As the two spend time together, their attraction grows and one night they are caught in a compromising position. Forced to marry, could this marriage turn into something that they both crave?
I loved the bantering between Grace and Ian. Gabrielle does such a good job of this and it makes the book that much more enjoyable! I loved that Grace was not going to let what her father was doing, get in the way of providing a life for her and her brother. She forged ahead and did what needed to be done for the household to survive.
This was a great start to what I am sure will be a wonderful series! I can't wait to see what Gabrielle come up with next!
Grace doesn't know what else to do about her father's gambling debts, so she approaches the owner of the club about settling the debts and about keeping her father from the club. She doesn't count on Ian having conditions of his own for his agreement. He must re-enter society and he needs her help in refining his manners. As the two spend time together, their attraction grows and one night they are caught in a compromising position. Forced to marry, could this marriage turn into something that they both crave?
I loved the bantering between Grace and Ian. Gabrielle does such a good job of this and it makes the book that much more enjoyable! I loved that Grace was not going to let what her father was doing, get in the way of providing a life for her and her brother. She forged ahead and did what needed to be done for the household to survive.
This was a great start to what I am sure will be a wonderful series! I can't wait to see what Gabrielle come up with next!
May 2, 2018
I was hooked on this book from start to finish. So much raw emotion in this book about what you want and what you think you want and know.
May 8, 2018
London society is cruel for a young woman whose father is an avid gambler. Miss Grace Ashton is not one to stand idly by while her family becomes destitute. Donning a mask, she slips into the night and attends the infamous Raven Club to confront the proprietor. But nothing prepares her for the sinfully attractive and wealthy Ian Swift. Ian is intrigued when Grace walks into his gambling club but refuses her offer of a few jewels to pay her father’s large debts. Unbeknownst to anyone, Ian has inherited the Earldom of Castleton, and he must reluctantly take his place in Society. But Ian’s manners as a gentleman have suffered. He needs a tutor, and he knows the exquisite lady standing before him is the answer.
A delightful read Ian & Grace are immediately attracted to each other but the divide that is the Ravens Club separates them. They both see things as black & white & it’s only after Brooke’s intervention that they start to see the grey. The characters are well portrayed & very likeable, Grace is a whiz at maths & uses her book keeping skills to help keep her household solvent following her father’s downfall into drink & gambling following her mother’s death. Ian has had to survive after he left his home, he’s now a very successful businessman but his use of his profits is unusual.. I loved the way the pair ‘s attraction sizzled & then how they both learned what made the other ’tick’. I found that I was engrossed & read into the early hours to finish this very good start to a new series, I hope Brooke has his HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A delightful read Ian & Grace are immediately attracted to each other but the divide that is the Ravens Club separates them. They both see things as black & white & it’s only after Brooke’s intervention that they start to see the grey. The characters are well portrayed & very likeable, Grace is a whiz at maths & uses her book keeping skills to help keep her household solvent following her father’s downfall into drink & gambling following her mother’s death. Ian has had to survive after he left his home, he’s now a very successful businessman but his use of his profits is unusual.. I loved the way the pair ‘s attraction sizzled & then how they both learned what made the other ’tick’. I found that I was engrossed & read into the early hours to finish this very good start to a new series, I hope Brooke has his HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 21, 2018
Gambling hell owner…I’m in. What we see in our own lives colors our views of others and we have a hard time being persuaded to think differently. That is how I see Grace. She cannot see past her father’s unfortunate vices to know that even though Ian owns a gambling hell he is not like her father. Ian has his own issues but underneath the rough exterior he is a kind and wonderful person. I loved seeing Grace and Ian work out their problems even though they do not (and probably will not) always see eye to eye. I have read several of Ms. Gabrielle’s books and the writing flows so well you are the end of the book before you know it. I wanted more of Ian and Grace. I love the idea of The Raven Club and hope to see the secondary characters get their own stories.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
April 24, 2018
Loved this book! So well written that I truly felt thier emotions. I cried with her, laughed, and shared her frustrations and uncertainties. A great HEA novel worth reading
April 21, 2018
I voluntarily read a copy of this book through Netgalley. The story is about a young woman, Grace who is trying to keep her family from losing their home due to her father’s drinking and gambling debts. Ian Swift is the owner of the Raven Club and is owed a huge sum of money by her father. After trying to pay the debt and then learning of the excessive amount that is owed, she returns home. Events occur that cause Ian to need her assistance and a bargain is made between them to clear her father’s debt. Ian has inherited his brother’s title of Earl and must now learn how to return to polite society in order to assist his younger sisters. After being found in a compromising situation by Ian’s mother, the Countess insists they marry to keep any scandal away from his sisters. This is a great love story and the book is well written. I would highly recommend the book.
May 14, 2018
The Raven Club, London - 1820
Miss Grace Ashton has arrived at the Raven Club wearing a mask to avoid recognition. She sees Ian Swift, the handsome and notorious owner of the gambling club. With the look of a pirate and known to be cold and ruthless, it is rumored that Ian is from an aristocratic lineage. Grace has come to the club to ask Ian to accept some jewelry as payment for the father’s gambling debts and to ask that the man be barred from gambling again. Ian laughs at her and sends her away.
Grace’s father, Baron Newbury has gambled away nearly all of their funds and Grace can no longer make ends meet. She is furious with her father for ruining their lives like this. She understands his grief at the loss of his wife but he can no longer continue like this. Grace’s 10-year-old brother, Adam, is aware of what his father is doing even though Grace tries to shield him from it. Grace earns a little money doing bookkeeping for some local businesses. As it has been three years since her mother died in the middle of Grace’s first season, she wonders if it would be worth selling the jewelry her mother left her to buy clothes and attempt another season. Hopefully, she can find a wealthy man to marry.
Ian lives in a nice town house in Piccadilly. His mother, the Countess of Castleton, awaits him upon his return from working at the club. She is reminding him that since his brother Andrew’s recent death, Ian is the new Earl and must take his place. Ian does to want to give up the Raven Club, nor be the Earl. Years ago, his father tried to make him marry someone and he refused. He then made his own life and fortune, taking no money from his father. Now, his mother wants him to step up and take charge of his two younger sisters, Ellie and Olivia, and present them for their debuts. While it goes against everything he wants in life, he agrees. Knowing he has been out of polite society for quite some time, he needs a tutor to help him brush up on manners and etiquette. He decides that the one woman for that is Grace. Promising to make it worth her while, Grace agrees. The lessons are held late at night in Ian’s home.
When their late night meeting for his lessons are discovered by his mother, they have no choice but to marry. Grace hates the fact that her father lost all their money at the Raven Club and she wants Ian to sell it, but he refuses. Can their marriage continue with this animosity between them?
I enjoyed this book and found Ian and Grace to be strong characters. Both are stubborn but that tends to make them more attracted to each other. Don’t miss this book. Great plot!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Miss Grace Ashton has arrived at the Raven Club wearing a mask to avoid recognition. She sees Ian Swift, the handsome and notorious owner of the gambling club. With the look of a pirate and known to be cold and ruthless, it is rumored that Ian is from an aristocratic lineage. Grace has come to the club to ask Ian to accept some jewelry as payment for the father’s gambling debts and to ask that the man be barred from gambling again. Ian laughs at her and sends her away.
Grace’s father, Baron Newbury has gambled away nearly all of their funds and Grace can no longer make ends meet. She is furious with her father for ruining their lives like this. She understands his grief at the loss of his wife but he can no longer continue like this. Grace’s 10-year-old brother, Adam, is aware of what his father is doing even though Grace tries to shield him from it. Grace earns a little money doing bookkeeping for some local businesses. As it has been three years since her mother died in the middle of Grace’s first season, she wonders if it would be worth selling the jewelry her mother left her to buy clothes and attempt another season. Hopefully, she can find a wealthy man to marry.
Ian lives in a nice town house in Piccadilly. His mother, the Countess of Castleton, awaits him upon his return from working at the club. She is reminding him that since his brother Andrew’s recent death, Ian is the new Earl and must take his place. Ian does to want to give up the Raven Club, nor be the Earl. Years ago, his father tried to make him marry someone and he refused. He then made his own life and fortune, taking no money from his father. Now, his mother wants him to step up and take charge of his two younger sisters, Ellie and Olivia, and present them for their debuts. While it goes against everything he wants in life, he agrees. Knowing he has been out of polite society for quite some time, he needs a tutor to help him brush up on manners and etiquette. He decides that the one woman for that is Grace. Promising to make it worth her while, Grace agrees. The lessons are held late at night in Ian’s home.
When their late night meeting for his lessons are discovered by his mother, they have no choice but to marry. Grace hates the fact that her father lost all their money at the Raven Club and she wants Ian to sell it, but he refuses. Can their marriage continue with this animosity between them?
I enjoyed this book and found Ian and Grace to be strong characters. Both are stubborn but that tends to make them more attracted to each other. Don’t miss this book. Great plot!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 14, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Grace is desperate to stop her father from gambling their family into total ruin – and desperate times will always require desperate actions, like donning a mask and entering a gambling den to plead with the owner. As the second son, Ian has done as he pleases with his life, and the Raven Club fits his lifestyle perfectly… or it did until his elder brother’s death. Which put Ian right back into a role he never wanted, never dreamed he’d have to fulfill and certainly wasn’t looking forward to re-entering London’s High Society once again. This beauty in front of him might just hold the answers for them both. They each needed something from the other. Her’s to cover her father’s gambling debts, his to be re-educated on the manners and attitude of a true gentleman of society, mostly that Ian has willingly forgotten over time. The spark is there between them, they both would benefit… but neither ever dreamed it would end up like it did.
I enjoyed Ian and Grace in How To Tempt An Earl. Sometimes couples surprise me, yet Grace and Ian did fit together so well. Adjustments, of course. but they aren’t at totally opposites sides of the coin as they may seem. Watching them slowly working their way toward doing something about that attraction was a fun journey. I liked them and hopefully will run into this couple again in the Raven Club series, as secondary characters next time. I enjoyed my time in this world and I’m going to keep an eye out for the next story in this series. If you love a good Regency Romance with likable and believable characters then this is one book you’ll want to pick up.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Grace is desperate to stop her father from gambling their family into total ruin – and desperate times will always require desperate actions, like donning a mask and entering a gambling den to plead with the owner. As the second son, Ian has done as he pleases with his life, and the Raven Club fits his lifestyle perfectly… or it did until his elder brother’s death. Which put Ian right back into a role he never wanted, never dreamed he’d have to fulfill and certainly wasn’t looking forward to re-entering London’s High Society once again. This beauty in front of him might just hold the answers for them both. They each needed something from the other. Her’s to cover her father’s gambling debts, his to be re-educated on the manners and attitude of a true gentleman of society, mostly that Ian has willingly forgotten over time. The spark is there between them, they both would benefit… but neither ever dreamed it would end up like it did.
I enjoyed Ian and Grace in How To Tempt An Earl. Sometimes couples surprise me, yet Grace and Ian did fit together so well. Adjustments, of course. but they aren’t at totally opposites sides of the coin as they may seem. Watching them slowly working their way toward doing something about that attraction was a fun journey. I liked them and hopefully will run into this couple again in the Raven Club series, as secondary characters next time. I enjoyed my time in this world and I’m going to keep an eye out for the next story in this series. If you love a good Regency Romance with likable and believable characters then this is one book you’ll want to pick up.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
April 23, 2020
Miss Grace Ashton’s father owes money to the gambling den, the Raven Club. So she dons a mask and begs Ian Swift, the owner of the Raven Club to stop her father from going to it. Grace also brings her mother’s jewels to pay the debt her father owes. Ian has another suggestion that Grace gives herself to him but she is not willing to do that. Still Ian can’t help but be intrigued by Grace and knows she’ll be back. Grace does come back to yell at Ian but he has another proposal to teach him to be a gentleman so he can enter Society. Grace reluctantly agrees to his offer but must meet him in secret. As Grace gets to know Ian the slight affection turns into passion and puts both of them in danger of not only having to marry but falling in love.
This is a delightful funny Regency love story that has all the feels! Sure, bad things happen but it still manages to be light-hearted and refreshing. The book is nicely written with some great characters that you can’t help but love. Of course there are a lot of impossibilities but it doesn’t really matter and no one will really care because the story is just fascinating enough or will it slow down the readability of the book. Grace is truly one of the best heroines she’s intelligent, spirited, plucky and caring; even with Ian lying to her she manages to not let it get to her. Ian the brooding moody hero is a lot harder to like though. He has so many things to overcome that it never feels like he never truly gets over it all. Yes, his sisters are very devoted especially to overlook his vices. So it will be interesting to read their stories and maybe Grace’s brother will get a story too. This is definitely a book well worth the read!
This is a delightful funny Regency love story that has all the feels! Sure, bad things happen but it still manages to be light-hearted and refreshing. The book is nicely written with some great characters that you can’t help but love. Of course there are a lot of impossibilities but it doesn’t really matter and no one will really care because the story is just fascinating enough or will it slow down the readability of the book. Grace is truly one of the best heroines she’s intelligent, spirited, plucky and caring; even with Ian lying to her she manages to not let it get to her. Ian the brooding moody hero is a lot harder to like though. He has so many things to overcome that it never feels like he never truly gets over it all. Yes, his sisters are very devoted especially to overlook his vices. So it will be interesting to read their stories and maybe Grace’s brother will get a story too. This is definitely a book well worth the read!
May 13, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For Grace, the cupboard is bare. Her father has drank and gambled away their funds and her dowry. She secretly begins keeping the ledgers for a widow for extra money. When her father's gambling continues, Grace, in disguise, visits The Raven Club where she meets Ian, the club's owner. Ian never allows himself to desire a proper miss but he is attracted immediately to Grace. Unknown to most, Ian has recently inherited a title. He makes a deal with Grace to repay her father's debts. She will teach Ian gentlemanly manners but quickly realizes that Ian was raised a gentleman and only needs a bit of refreshing.
As they meet in secrecy, their attraction continues until they're caught in a compromising kiss. They must marry!
This is a wonderful short story, my first book by Tina Gabrielle. I wished at times that some areas of the story could be expanded. Grace and Ian were richly developed as well as the support characters. The story was well written. I enjoyed How to Tempt an Earl and would definitely recommend it.
For Grace, the cupboard is bare. Her father has drank and gambled away their funds and her dowry. She secretly begins keeping the ledgers for a widow for extra money. When her father's gambling continues, Grace, in disguise, visits The Raven Club where she meets Ian, the club's owner. Ian never allows himself to desire a proper miss but he is attracted immediately to Grace. Unknown to most, Ian has recently inherited a title. He makes a deal with Grace to repay her father's debts. She will teach Ian gentlemanly manners but quickly realizes that Ian was raised a gentleman and only needs a bit of refreshing.
As they meet in secrecy, their attraction continues until they're caught in a compromising kiss. They must marry!
This is a wonderful short story, my first book by Tina Gabrielle. I wished at times that some areas of the story could be expanded. Grace and Ian were richly developed as well as the support characters. The story was well written. I enjoyed How to Tempt an Earl and would definitely recommend it.
May 3, 2018
Miss Grace Ashton has been keeping her family afloat since the death of her mother. Her father has turned to drink and gambling to ease his grief amassing a large debt to the infamous Raven Club.
Ian Swift, owner of the Raven Club, never expected to inherit the Earldom from his brother. His mother wants him to re-join society and take his place as the Earl of Castleton. when Grace walks into his gambling club he is intrigued and sees this as an opportunity to relearn the manners he cast aside when he abandoned his former life.
Unable to resist the chemistry between them they are caught in a compromising position and are forced to marry.
I found myself drawn to Grace, she is a smart resourceful woman unafraid to share her opinions and her feelings. Ian is also a complex character with hidden depths. The two were perfect for each other and the story flowed perfectly. Overall a gripping read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/
Ian Swift, owner of the Raven Club, never expected to inherit the Earldom from his brother. His mother wants him to re-join society and take his place as the Earl of Castleton. when Grace walks into his gambling club he is intrigued and sees this as an opportunity to relearn the manners he cast aside when he abandoned his former life.
Unable to resist the chemistry between them they are caught in a compromising position and are forced to marry.
I found myself drawn to Grace, she is a smart resourceful woman unafraid to share her opinions and her feelings. Ian is also a complex character with hidden depths. The two were perfect for each other and the story flowed perfectly. Overall a gripping read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/
June 25, 2018
Ian Swift has become the new Earl of Castleton after the tragic death of his older brother. Problem is, Ian had left his father's home 10 years earlier and he is now the owner of a gambling house. He's left the rules of the ton behind and does as he pleases with no one to answer to. When Miss Grace Ashton walks into his club to settle her father's death, Ian is intrigue with the lady. He proposes a deal: he'll forgive her father's debts in exchange for a refresher course on the rules of the ton. With no other choice to keep the household running, Grace agrees to his terms.
This plot has been used many times, but Ms. Gabrielle weaves a good story between want and need. I wish the tension between Ian and Grace had lasted a little longer though. Despite that one slight criticism, the story kept my interest throughout and I was happy to see both Ian and Grace learned the art of compromise. Fans of regency romances will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review, but I was not obligated to leave a review.
This plot has been used many times, but Ms. Gabrielle weaves a good story between want and need. I wish the tension between Ian and Grace had lasted a little longer though. Despite that one slight criticism, the story kept my interest throughout and I was happy to see both Ian and Grace learned the art of compromise. Fans of regency romances will enjoy this story.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review, but I was not obligated to leave a review.
November 6, 2021
Has this same story been written many times in this genre? Yes. But is it still a fun read? Also yes.
Proper society lady falls for dark & dangerous gambling club owner. It’s really it’s own trope now, and it’s obviously predictable. But I don’t read romance novels to be surprised, so I’m okay with happily following along with a formulaic plot. I liked the characters in this, with a couple of caveats.
Those being just 2 instances:
1) Ian’s words to his mother that Grace overhears on their wedding day don’t suit his character and he didn’t seem to apologize enough for sounding so dismissive of her. That was the one time I didn’t like Ian. And
2) Grace’s obsessive hatred of gambling dens because of her father’s addiction (while it made sense) became tiresome after a while. She had no right to issue such an ultimatum to someone she claims to love, knowing he also loves his business, takes pride in it, and uses it to help others. That was the one thing that annoyed me about Grace.
Otherwise, it was an easy, fairly light-hearted read for fans of regency romance.
Proper society lady falls for dark & dangerous gambling club owner. It’s really it’s own trope now, and it’s obviously predictable. But I don’t read romance novels to be surprised, so I’m okay with happily following along with a formulaic plot. I liked the characters in this, with a couple of caveats.
Those being just 2 instances:
1) Ian’s words to his mother that Grace overhears on their wedding day don’t suit his character and he didn’t seem to apologize enough for sounding so dismissive of her. That was the one time I didn’t like Ian. And
2) Grace’s obsessive hatred of gambling dens because of her father’s addiction (while it made sense) became tiresome after a while. She had no right to issue such an ultimatum to someone she claims to love, knowing he also loves his business, takes pride in it, and uses it to help others. That was the one thing that annoyed me about Grace.
Otherwise, it was an easy, fairly light-hearted read for fans of regency romance.
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