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Love in London #4
Forever Be Mine
What’s love got to do with it?
Her life was a Tina Turner song. Celia Lynton had been told her entire life that she couldn’t marry for love, marriage should be a business agreement, poor men were only after the family fortune, blah, blah, blah. But now, there is no fortune. There’s only debt, and an urgency to find a way to pay her younger brother’s tuition at a school that can tend to his special needs. So yeah, there’s going to be a marriage. One of convenience. Just like her parents wanted. She’ll marry a future Scottish earl—a very rich future earl—and her brother will get to attend school. There’s just one problem: Celia is in love with another man.
You can’t always get what you want.
His life was a Rolling Stones song. Carter Martin has loved Celia since they were kids. Never mind he’s too quiet, too studious for someone who lights up a room when she smiles, add to that his father works for her family. Being the son of the “help”, he could never be good enough for her. So he’s worked hard his entire life to show his boss, the Earl of Pembroke, that he can take over his father’s position as Steward of the estate some day and take care of the family who has taken care of his for generations. Little does he know, Celia has a plan of her own…an intimate trip to Italy where they won’t be able to keep their hands off each other. How can he resist the only woman he’s ever loved?
Her life was a Tina Turner song. Celia Lynton had been told her entire life that she couldn’t marry for love, marriage should be a business agreement, poor men were only after the family fortune, blah, blah, blah. But now, there is no fortune. There’s only debt, and an urgency to find a way to pay her younger brother’s tuition at a school that can tend to his special needs. So yeah, there’s going to be a marriage. One of convenience. Just like her parents wanted. She’ll marry a future Scottish earl—a very rich future earl—and her brother will get to attend school. There’s just one problem: Celia is in love with another man.
You can’t always get what you want.
His life was a Rolling Stones song. Carter Martin has loved Celia since they were kids. Never mind he’s too quiet, too studious for someone who lights up a room when she smiles, add to that his father works for her family. Being the son of the “help”, he could never be good enough for her. So he’s worked hard his entire life to show his boss, the Earl of Pembroke, that he can take over his father’s position as Steward of the estate some day and take care of the family who has taken care of his for generations. Little does he know, Celia has a plan of her own…an intimate trip to Italy where they won’t be able to keep their hands off each other. How can he resist the only woman he’s ever loved?
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2019
37 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Smith
143 books2,211 followersLauren Smith is a USA Today Best-Selling author and an Oklahoma attorney. She knew she was destined to be a romance writer when she attempted to re-write the entire Titanic movie just to save Jack from drowning. Connecting with readers by writing emotionally moving, realistic and sexy romances no matter what time period is her passion. She’s won multiple awards in several romance subgenres including: New England Reader’s Choice Awards, Greater Detroit BookSeller’s Best Awards, Amazon.com Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist and a Semi-Finalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award. To connect with Lauren, visit her at www.laurensmithbooks.com or twitter at @LSmithAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 14, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
I so enjoy reading anything written by Lauren Smith , and this was no exception to that rule , whatever the genre , she excels in the writing, always stunning her audience with her gift .
This is a Contemporary Romance that tears your heart out and drops it at your feet in a squishy lump , so get you tissues at the ready .
I really felt for Carter and Celia , they loved so much , always knowing they could never be together .
It takes others to show them the real way to Solve their challenges and give them hope .
Excellent book and I look forward to the next one .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
I so enjoy reading anything written by Lauren Smith , and this was no exception to that rule , whatever the genre , she excels in the writing, always stunning her audience with her gift .
This is a Contemporary Romance that tears your heart out and drops it at your feet in a squishy lump , so get you tissues at the ready .
I really felt for Carter and Celia , they loved so much , always knowing they could never be together .
It takes others to show them the real way to Solve their challenges and give them hope .
Excellent book and I look forward to the next one .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
April 9, 2022
**Audio Review**
Forever Be Mine by Lauren Smith was a beautifully written, swoony contemporary romance about two childhood friends who are simply destined to be together. Celia and Carter are such easy characters to fall in love with, and I found myself consumed in their love story hoping and wishing for them to find their own HEA.
Stella Hunter and Shane East narrate this audio. Stella Hunter brings so much life to Celia voicing all her doubts, wishes, and desires brilliantly in a decadent British accent. Shane East turns on the charm by portraying Carter's passionate, dedicated, and loyal sides as he finally gives in to temptation and gives his trust and love to Celia. Celia and Carter have this attraction that has been building for so many years, and when they finally get together, it is steamy!
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook. If you love a contemporary romance with a hunky loyal hero, a devoted brave heroine, a marriage of convenience to help the ones you love, a trip to Italy and Scotland, giving in to your deepest desires, steamy times on vacation, and a HEA that is worth fighting for and will leave you feeling deliciously happy, then you will adore Celia and Carter's story. I'm looking forward to more from Lauren Smith.
Forever Be Mine by Lauren Smith was a beautifully written, swoony contemporary romance about two childhood friends who are simply destined to be together. Celia and Carter are such easy characters to fall in love with, and I found myself consumed in their love story hoping and wishing for them to find their own HEA.
Stella Hunter and Shane East narrate this audio. Stella Hunter brings so much life to Celia voicing all her doubts, wishes, and desires brilliantly in a decadent British accent. Shane East turns on the charm by portraying Carter's passionate, dedicated, and loyal sides as he finally gives in to temptation and gives his trust and love to Celia. Celia and Carter have this attraction that has been building for so many years, and when they finally get together, it is steamy!
Overall, I enjoyed this audiobook. If you love a contemporary romance with a hunky loyal hero, a devoted brave heroine, a marriage of convenience to help the ones you love, a trip to Italy and Scotland, giving in to your deepest desires, steamy times on vacation, and a HEA that is worth fighting for and will leave you feeling deliciously happy, then you will adore Celia and Carter's story. I'm looking forward to more from Lauren Smith.
February 15, 2019
Celia Lynton is to marry Callum Radcliffe a future Scottish earl, a marriage of convenience so her autistic brother Matthew can attend a special school. There’s just one problem both of them are in love with others. They agree to wait a month before announcing their engagement to spend the time with their loves.
Carter Martin has loved Celia since they were kids. Never mind he’s too quiet, too studious for someone who lights up a room when she smiles, add to that his father works as steward for her family. Celia has a plan of her own a trip to Italy to visit her Aunt Holly.
Another lovely tear jerking romance from the author, it doesn't matter what genre she writes she always delivers a stunning read. This is the fourth in the series & could be read on its own. We met Carter & Celia in the earlier books & I was so glad that they had their story. As usual I was drawn in from the first page & gripped until the last. I was taken on a gamut of emotions, be sure to have hankies ready especially for Celia’s talk with her uncle.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Carter Martin has loved Celia since they were kids. Never mind he’s too quiet, too studious for someone who lights up a room when she smiles, add to that his father works as steward for her family. Celia has a plan of her own a trip to Italy to visit her Aunt Holly.
Another lovely tear jerking romance from the author, it doesn't matter what genre she writes she always delivers a stunning read. This is the fourth in the series & could be read on its own. We met Carter & Celia in the earlier books & I was so glad that they had their story. As usual I was drawn in from the first page & gripped until the last. I was taken on a gamut of emotions, be sure to have hankies ready especially for Celia’s talk with her uncle.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 15, 2022
Audio Review:
Forever Be Mine (Love in London # 4)Celia Lynton and Carter Martin are childhood friends and their romance is so sweet. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of places in the story. I enjoyed the plot and characters. Looking for a good escape, this audio transport you to another world.
Stella Hunter and Shane East dual narration was excellent and brought Celia and Carters romance to reality. Shane East is a favourite brit narrator and his inflection is intoxicating. Stella voiced Celia's thoughts and inflection is smooth and easy listening.
Great narration and story.
Forever Be Mine (Love in London # 4)Celia Lynton and Carter Martin are childhood friends and their romance is so sweet. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of places in the story. I enjoyed the plot and characters. Looking for a good escape, this audio transport you to another world.
Stella Hunter and Shane East dual narration was excellent and brought Celia and Carters romance to reality. Shane East is a favourite brit narrator and his inflection is intoxicating. Stella voiced Celia's thoughts and inflection is smooth and easy listening.
Great narration and story.
March 15, 2019
Forever Be Mine by Lauren Smith is the 4th book in her Love in London series. I have not read the earlier books in this series, but this read very well as a standalone, and I loved every moment of this wonderful sweet contemporary romance.
We meet our heroine, Celia Lynton, as she makes plans with her friend Callum, a future earl, to get married. Seems Celia’s father lost all their money, and the family has moved in his brother; causing Celia to make arrangements to help her autistic brother Matthew to go to the school of his choice. Callum will pay Matthew’s tuition and Celia will bear him the heir he needs to become the earl. The problem is that both Celia and Callum are in love with someone else, but for both, duties come first.
Carter Martin is following in his father’s footsteps as steward of the Earl of Pembrooke’s estate. He is in love with Celia, but he doesn’t make enough money to help her pay for Matthew’s tuition. When he learns she is marrying someone else, he is despondent, but Celia invites him to take a trip to Italy for a month at her Aunt’s place, and enjoy their last days together.
What follows is a beautiful heartwarming story, as we watch both Carter and Celia show how much they love each other. The chemistry between them was hot and steamy, but most of all their love was so sweet, it was tearing our heart out (as well as theirs) that they would never be together. But sometimes magic and miracles do take place.
Bravo to Lauren Smith for not only bringing us to tears many times, but creating a wonderful couple, and fabulous secondary characters. It was so heartwarming to see others ( uncle, friends, Earl) come forth to express what love is all about, and never let it go. Forever Be Mine was a tearjerker, but also so sweet and emotional. If you love pure sexy romances that pull on your emotions, you need to read this book. Thank you Lauren Smith for this wonderful story.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
We meet our heroine, Celia Lynton, as she makes plans with her friend Callum, a future earl, to get married. Seems Celia’s father lost all their money, and the family has moved in his brother; causing Celia to make arrangements to help her autistic brother Matthew to go to the school of his choice. Callum will pay Matthew’s tuition and Celia will bear him the heir he needs to become the earl. The problem is that both Celia and Callum are in love with someone else, but for both, duties come first.
Carter Martin is following in his father’s footsteps as steward of the Earl of Pembrooke’s estate. He is in love with Celia, but he doesn’t make enough money to help her pay for Matthew’s tuition. When he learns she is marrying someone else, he is despondent, but Celia invites him to take a trip to Italy for a month at her Aunt’s place, and enjoy their last days together.
What follows is a beautiful heartwarming story, as we watch both Carter and Celia show how much they love each other. The chemistry between them was hot and steamy, but most of all their love was so sweet, it was tearing our heart out (as well as theirs) that they would never be together. But sometimes magic and miracles do take place.
Bravo to Lauren Smith for not only bringing us to tears many times, but creating a wonderful couple, and fabulous secondary characters. It was so heartwarming to see others ( uncle, friends, Earl) come forth to express what love is all about, and never let it go. Forever Be Mine was a tearjerker, but also so sweet and emotional. If you love pure sexy romances that pull on your emotions, you need to read this book. Thank you Lauren Smith for this wonderful story.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
February 17, 2019
Like many of Lauren Smith's books, this is a thoroughly enjoyable romance. We have already met Celia and Carter in the first three books in this series, but here they get their own story. This is a tale of two people who love one another, but duty and circumstance are keeping apart.
I enjoyed the romance between the two of them, they were drawn to one another from the start, having had feelings for each other since they were youngsters. Now, finally, they find their way to one another.
There was another glimpse of descendants of previous book characters. I enjoy the links between the various series that Lauren Smith writes. This time we see descendants of Joanna and Brock, who are coming in a book soon. I like the way all of the different stories seem to have links that tie them into one overall world.
The only downside to this story was that it's supposed to be part of the Love in London, but I didn't feel that either of the characters were 'British.' I can forgive the Americanisms and US-style language to an extent, as most readers of this book will be American. But they just didn't read like Brits. Also, the reason that they couldn't be together didn't really make sense, it would have been enough to say that they couldn't afford to pay for Eton for her brother any longer. Another school just wouldn't be more expensive. Also, the mentions of what the NHS is and how it works didn't make sense.
Overall, I enjoyed the romance. It's just a shame that it wasn't set in the US, as, for me, it was not in any way a British story. It's not something that will probably bother a lot of readers though.
3 1/2-4 stars overall.
I enjoyed the romance between the two of them, they were drawn to one another from the start, having had feelings for each other since they were youngsters. Now, finally, they find their way to one another.
There was another glimpse of descendants of previous book characters. I enjoy the links between the various series that Lauren Smith writes. This time we see descendants of Joanna and Brock, who are coming in a book soon. I like the way all of the different stories seem to have links that tie them into one overall world.
The only downside to this story was that it's supposed to be part of the Love in London, but I didn't feel that either of the characters were 'British.' I can forgive the Americanisms and US-style language to an extent, as most readers of this book will be American. But they just didn't read like Brits. Also, the reason that they couldn't be together didn't really make sense, it would have been enough to say that they couldn't afford to pay for Eton for her brother any longer. Another school just wouldn't be more expensive. Also, the mentions of what the NHS is and how it works didn't make sense.
Overall, I enjoyed the romance. It's just a shame that it wasn't set in the US, as, for me, it was not in any way a British story. It's not something that will probably bother a lot of readers though.
3 1/2-4 stars overall.
March 4, 2019
Just when you think a series is over....I'm so glad we got to experience this "unsolved" story!!!
Carter is Tristan's best friend. The friend who's family pretty much ran the grounds for Tristan's father's estate in London. So you can only imagine how falling in love with an aristocrat would be frowned on. Well...that's exactly what he did. But with all due respect, he feel in love with her many years ago when they were just children. And now it looks as though he'll never get the chance to properly love her since she's promised to another man.
Celia has spent many years looking after her family. Now that her father has run in to financial woes, it looks like the burden has fallen on her even more so lately. Although her heart belongs to someone else, she's willing to sacrifies everything to make sure he brother has what he needs: an education at a private school. But is the price too great for the heart?
After reading Tristan and Kat's story, I was always fond of the side story that was Carter and Celia. I'm so happy we finally got to read their story. Although I don't exactly agree with the "one last month to be with those we love" idea, I am fond of the way everything worked out. Bottom line is that a happy ending is just that. A happy ending.
Side note: Now I'm extremely curious about a side character that just might get his own story in the near future. Might have to change the title to "love in Scotland" LOL
Carter is Tristan's best friend. The friend who's family pretty much ran the grounds for Tristan's father's estate in London. So you can only imagine how falling in love with an aristocrat would be frowned on. Well...that's exactly what he did. But with all due respect, he feel in love with her many years ago when they were just children. And now it looks as though he'll never get the chance to properly love her since she's promised to another man.
Celia has spent many years looking after her family. Now that her father has run in to financial woes, it looks like the burden has fallen on her even more so lately. Although her heart belongs to someone else, she's willing to sacrifies everything to make sure he brother has what he needs: an education at a private school. But is the price too great for the heart?
After reading Tristan and Kat's story, I was always fond of the side story that was Carter and Celia. I'm so happy we finally got to read their story. Although I don't exactly agree with the "one last month to be with those we love" idea, I am fond of the way everything worked out. Bottom line is that a happy ending is just that. A happy ending.
Side note: Now I'm extremely curious about a side character that just might get his own story in the near future. Might have to change the title to "love in Scotland" LOL
March 26, 2021
Breaking barriers for love
Two people from different levels of society raised in the same location. Friends who love each other but because of societies norms denied the ability to show love to each other until they escape society for a month. Carter the junior steward for the Earl of Pembroke has been in love with Celia the niece of the Earls. Carter has a noble heart, he’s loyal, hard working and honorable. He’s best friends to Tristan the heir to Pembroke. Celia is dedicated to her brother Matthew who is diagnosed with high functioning autism. Her parents are inept and rely on Celia to figure out their financial problems by marrying a wealthy lord. Carter and Celia need a miracle and oh the sweetness does occur! Their honest love shines encouraging others to rally for them. Their love is sweet and tender. And oh Garrick Kincaid is related to Brock and Joanna from the League of Rogues series, OMG goose bumps when that little Easter egg clicked! This is the fourth book in the series and I loved the fact that these were the descendants of the League of Rogues my favorite series. It’s so much fun to see their families continue.
Two people from different levels of society raised in the same location. Friends who love each other but because of societies norms denied the ability to show love to each other until they escape society for a month. Carter the junior steward for the Earl of Pembroke has been in love with Celia the niece of the Earls. Carter has a noble heart, he’s loyal, hard working and honorable. He’s best friends to Tristan the heir to Pembroke. Celia is dedicated to her brother Matthew who is diagnosed with high functioning autism. Her parents are inept and rely on Celia to figure out their financial problems by marrying a wealthy lord. Carter and Celia need a miracle and oh the sweetness does occur! Their honest love shines encouraging others to rally for them. Their love is sweet and tender. And oh Garrick Kincaid is related to Brock and Joanna from the League of Rogues series, OMG goose bumps when that little Easter egg clicked! This is the fourth book in the series and I loved the fact that these were the descendants of the League of Rogues my favorite series. It’s so much fun to see their families continue.
February 21, 2019
I loved the three part series that came before this one, telling the story of Tristan and Kat, and this one, about Carter and Celia, was just as good. There was a bit less angst in this one, for which I was thankful. I kept worrying something bad was going to happen, but thankfully, nothing did. It's not a long story, but it packs a punch, the message being that when we are given the gift of true love, we are fools to throw it away. I really enjoyed this, loved the characters and plot, and I recommend it.
August 30, 2020
Love Conquers All❤️
I really liked the lust, longing and love between these two. Celia and Carter’s story was so sweet. Two people who knew from a young age that they were destined for each other, but their stations in life, and duty, would forever keep them apart. Although I understand the Author wanting be as descriptive as possible of the places they visited, I felt time would have been better served with more romance and adventure between the Celia and Carter. Please take more time to proofread the books before you put them out there!!!
I really liked the lust, longing and love between these two. Celia and Carter’s story was so sweet. Two people who knew from a young age that they were destined for each other, but their stations in life, and duty, would forever keep them apart. Although I understand the Author wanting be as descriptive as possible of the places they visited, I felt time would have been better served with more romance and adventure between the Celia and Carter. Please take more time to proofread the books before you put them out there!!!
February 8, 2023
Carter and Celia grew up together and have always known they are meant for each other - but they have resisted. This story is adorably sweet and runs through the pitfalls of arranged marriages and giving up on your dreams. The forbidden love aspect in the face of a more modern and evolving views on class, station, and love in general is heartbreaking, but this story is not too emotionally heavy. It's just perfect. Beautifully performed by Stella and Shane. I would definitely recommend!
June 9, 2021
I couldn't put it down
I never write these reviews, but I honestly have read through this whole series in 3 days. I couldn't put it down, and now I'm just stuck waiting for Garrick's story... which I hope she writes. It was a great escape for a few days. If you like romance novels you will love any of her books.
I never write these reviews, but I honestly have read through this whole series in 3 days. I couldn't put it down, and now I'm just stuck waiting for Garrick's story... which I hope she writes. It was a great escape for a few days. If you like romance novels you will love any of her books.
January 16, 2023
Great love story
This book is a reminder that love comes befoe all othe thigs. Pride, social standing and money are ot reasons to sacrife love. Life is to short for anything less.
This book is a reminder that love comes befoe all othe thigs. Pride, social standing and money are ot reasons to sacrife love. Life is to short for anything less.
May 27, 2019
I like a HEA and this was. Good read from Smith. I liked the characters and the plot. Looking forward to reading her next book.
March 13, 2025
Loved these two ❤️
February 10, 2020
A fairy tale in real life.
Another amazing story by my favorite author! The entire Love in London series has been one of my favorites. Ceila learns that a truly happy everlasting love is possible with the man of her dreams.
Another amazing story by my favorite author! The entire Love in London series has been one of my favorites. Ceila learns that a truly happy everlasting love is possible with the man of her dreams.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews