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Lords of Discipline #5
Played by the Earl
In the games men play, love is the riskiest roll of the dice....
Ever since John, Earl of Summerset, retired as a spy, his life has suffered from nothing but boredom. He has no plots to uncover, no foes to vanquish…until his brother gambles away the source of the Summerset fortune. Determined to save his earldom, John devises a plot guaranteed to recover his property. All he needs is a proper young miss to assist him…
Netta isn’t averse to a racket or two, not if the job is profitable. She can be any woman the provoking earl desires and she knows every trick in the book. But John is eager to prove that seduction is a game two can play. And the price of her employment might be more than she bargained for.
But when Netta’s past threatens to destroy John’s future, they discover even the best-laid schemes can go awry. As an enemy creeps closer, John and Netta are in danger of losing much more than their hearts. In order to survive, they will need to find one last ace up their sleeves….
+++Played by the Earl contains steamy sex scenes with elements of BDSM. Don’t read it unless you like your romances HOT!!+++
Ever since John, Earl of Summerset, retired as a spy, his life has suffered from nothing but boredom. He has no plots to uncover, no foes to vanquish…until his brother gambles away the source of the Summerset fortune. Determined to save his earldom, John devises a plot guaranteed to recover his property. All he needs is a proper young miss to assist him…
Netta isn’t averse to a racket or two, not if the job is profitable. She can be any woman the provoking earl desires and she knows every trick in the book. But John is eager to prove that seduction is a game two can play. And the price of her employment might be more than she bargained for.
But when Netta’s past threatens to destroy John’s future, they discover even the best-laid schemes can go awry. As an enemy creeps closer, John and Netta are in danger of losing much more than their hearts. In order to survive, they will need to find one last ace up their sleeves….
+++Played by the Earl contains steamy sex scenes with elements of BDSM. Don’t read it unless you like your romances HOT!!+++
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2019
68 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Chase
14 books223 followersAlyson Chase writes historical romances that are just a bit…naughty. She is a former attorney, and thought that her flair for dramatic and sexy writing was seriously undervalued in her legal career. She also writes under the name Allyson Charles.
If you want to know when Alyson Chase’s next book is coming out, visit her at www.alysonchase.com and sign up for her VIP club.
If you want to know when Alyson Chase’s next book is coming out, visit her at www.alysonchase.com and sign up for her VIP club.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 24, 2019
Ever since John, Earl of Summerset, retired as a spy, his life has suffered from nothing but boredom, until his brother Robert gambles away his estate which is the source of the Summerset fortune. Determined to save his earldom, John devises a plot guaranteed to recover his property. All he needs is a proper young miss to assist him. Netta left home when she was barely seventeen & has survived but becoming an actress &part time thief as she needs every penny she can scrape together to make a life for herself & her young sister Eleanor in America. Their paths are thrown together when she's injured after stealing from a dandy. She could be just who John needs for his plan. When Netta’s past threatens to destroy John’s future, they discover even the best-laid schemes can go awry.
The fifth book in the series, which could be read on its own. We do encounter the characters from earlier books & it was great to see how their lives have changed & how settled they are. I loved John in the earlier books & his story didn't disappoint. Netta was a breath of fresh air & exactly what John needed. I loved her lessons in becoming a ‘proper' young lady. The pace was very good & it was a page turner, my only quibble was that I felt the ending was rushed & I was left with some unanswered questions but felt that the opening was there for there to be more books & I’d love Wil to have his story. Hence a solid four star rather than five stars
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The fifth book in the series, which could be read on its own. We do encounter the characters from earlier books & it was great to see how their lives have changed & how settled they are. I loved John in the earlier books & his story didn't disappoint. Netta was a breath of fresh air & exactly what John needed. I loved her lessons in becoming a ‘proper' young lady. The pace was very good & it was a page turner, my only quibble was that I felt the ending was rushed & I was left with some unanswered questions but felt that the opening was there for there to be more books & I’d love Wil to have his story. Hence a solid four star rather than five stars
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 27, 2019
Oh, this was so good. I do love a fab story with spies as a whole group. I also loved the part in which fellow spies and their families visited John, the Earl of Summersett's house, along with dogs, cats and children. I loved this story - there was love, drama and fun too. 5☆
February 27, 2024
Holy crap, Summerset's book did not disappoint. I've been waiting for his book and in every single book preceding his, he's been anti marriage and family and all that so to see a man like that fall and fall hard. And Netta was the perfect match for him too. I adored the pairing though I will say I thought it was light on the kink (he likes to play mind games with sex...?) but overall, a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to a very good and steamy series.
December 28, 2023
This book was very entertaining and I enjoyed the unique plot. If only the last 15% wasn’t so predictable.
February 13, 2024
I like this 2.5 not great but fun and a nice end
February 6, 2020
I must say I liked this series a lot. This particular one started out a tiny bit slow but it soon made up for it:-)
December 23, 2019
Another Sexy Lord's of Discipline Read
I really enjoyed Played by the Earl. Netta and John are a great fun couple. I enjoyed the plot line and there were some really good sex scenes. It wasn't quite a five star read for a couple reasons. First, it just didn't have the emotional intensity of the first two books in the series. The resolution seemed to easily gained to me. The second reason is that there were a few loose ends that weren't answered about John's family. His relationship with his brother and grandmother never gets fixed in any meaningful way. I felt like the story was setting up to resolve these relationships but then for what ever reason the scenes showing a reconciliation weren't there.
Overall though I felt this was a well written enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed Played by the Earl. Netta and John are a great fun couple. I enjoyed the plot line and there were some really good sex scenes. It wasn't quite a five star read for a couple reasons. First, it just didn't have the emotional intensity of the first two books in the series. The resolution seemed to easily gained to me. The second reason is that there were a few loose ends that weren't answered about John's family. His relationship with his brother and grandmother never gets fixed in any meaningful way. I felt like the story was setting up to resolve these relationships but then for what ever reason the scenes showing a reconciliation weren't there.
Overall though I felt this was a well written enjoyable read.
August 2, 2019
No thanks
Let me start by saying, I have really enjoyed all of the other books in this series. I went into this book excited and ended it highly disappointed.
I’ve been trying to read it for about a week. I picked it up...put it down...repeat. It was boring. I found both major characters boring. Sommerset whining about getting older at 35 and Nettie who did whatever. I did not feel like there was chemistry between main characters. There was just something about these two characters I did not like. It just felt like the story drug on and on with no action.
I hate that I didn’t like it because I enjoyed the others so much. This one was just not for me.
Let me start by saying, I have really enjoyed all of the other books in this series. I went into this book excited and ended it highly disappointed.
I’ve been trying to read it for about a week. I picked it up...put it down...repeat. It was boring. I found both major characters boring. Sommerset whining about getting older at 35 and Nettie who did whatever. I did not feel like there was chemistry between main characters. There was just something about these two characters I did not like. It just felt like the story drug on and on with no action.
I hate that I didn’t like it because I enjoyed the others so much. This one was just not for me.
May 31, 2021
Aw, I hate the end of an engaging series.
March 29, 2022
I really loved this final book in this series! Fantastic all the way through! My only regret about that is it’s the last book in this series!
July 25, 2019
The opening scene is really not exemplary for the rest of the book, but helps illustrate John's ennui. So, we have John, a rogue and former spy who has too much time on his hands and no idea what to do. He also has a soft side - he lets the cat sleep on his bed and Auntie May call him Johnnie!
Our heroine Netta, is a young, but not inexperienced, woman hiding from the ton more or less in plain sight to escape a highly undesirable arranged marriage.
Of course they join forces in a symbiotic relationship to get that wagered deed back. Meanwhile, they have difficulty resisting their mutual attraction. Reading some of the intimate scenes between Netta and John the word sensual came to mind.
Well told, though I also felt it was a bit rushed toward the end. On the other hand, I did not really miss a step-by-step description of a knife fight.
I enjoyed reading an advance copy and voluntarily post this review.
Our heroine Netta, is a young, but not inexperienced, woman hiding from the ton more or less in plain sight to escape a highly undesirable arranged marriage.
Of course they join forces in a symbiotic relationship to get that wagered deed back. Meanwhile, they have difficulty resisting their mutual attraction. Reading some of the intimate scenes between Netta and John the word sensual came to mind.
Well told, though I also felt it was a bit rushed toward the end. On the other hand, I did not really miss a step-by-step description of a knife fight.
I enjoyed reading an advance copy and voluntarily post this review.
November 21, 2023
Best Series of book I’ve read…..
This is the last book of series… the story of John and Netta…. If you have read the other books (read in order) you know who John is…. I’ve been waiting for this book as John has been my favorite character in all the books… while John has come off as a dandy in all the books with his garish clothing choices, turns out he is anything but that when it come to Netta.
I want to say this about the series… I have never read such a excellent connection of books in a series of this genre before… from book #1 Ms Chase created characters to carry over and last thru each book…and as their story lines moved from book to book more excellent characters were introduced who enriched each book. The stories we wildly entertaining without being over the top… I rad the entire 5 books in a week they were so entertaining…
A definite recommend…just in order
This is the last book of series… the story of John and Netta…. If you have read the other books (read in order) you know who John is…. I’ve been waiting for this book as John has been my favorite character in all the books… while John has come off as a dandy in all the books with his garish clothing choices, turns out he is anything but that when it come to Netta.
I want to say this about the series… I have never read such a excellent connection of books in a series of this genre before… from book #1 Ms Chase created characters to carry over and last thru each book…and as their story lines moved from book to book more excellent characters were introduced who enriched each book. The stories we wildly entertaining without being over the top… I rad the entire 5 books in a week they were so entertaining…
A definite recommend…just in order
October 17, 2024
ARGHHHHHH !!! How should I comprise my thoughts about this book?
Ok first, the points I didn’t like
-BOOK COVER 🤢
- slow start, hints about Netta’s story could have been sprinkled in earlier than 60%
-John’s character was not quite graspable during the first 20%
- Netta was too easy.. (i’m sorry to say that but past lover’s could have been just erased, has nothing to do with her independence…)
Points i liked
-THE WHOLE CREW COMING TOGETHER!! It was sooo good to read about the other couples and their children 🥺 especially Marcus ☺️☺️☺️ Winnifred was mentioned only shortly, but oh well, I still adored all scenes where the other characters were involved.
-after 60% the story really picked up speed!
-some good scenes (🔥) were unfortunately skipped 🫠
All in all, i’m glad i did not listen to other reviews and have read it nonetheless!
Although Marcus is my favorite character of the series, I still enjoyed this very much!
Ok first, the points I didn’t like
-BOOK COVER 🤢
- slow start, hints about Netta’s story could have been sprinkled in earlier than 60%
-John’s character was not quite graspable during the first 20%
- Netta was too easy.. (i’m sorry to say that but past lover’s could have been just erased, has nothing to do with her independence…)
Points i liked
-THE WHOLE CREW COMING TOGETHER!! It was sooo good to read about the other couples and their children 🥺 especially Marcus ☺️☺️☺️ Winnifred was mentioned only shortly, but oh well, I still adored all scenes where the other characters were involved.
-after 60% the story really picked up speed!
-some good scenes (🔥) were unfortunately skipped 🫠
All in all, i’m glad i did not listen to other reviews and have read it nonetheless!
Although Marcus is my favorite character of the series, I still enjoyed this very much!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2022
Scrubbed
I really like this one! It was funny and fun and although it was action-packed a bit and mystery kind of a little it didn't detract from their relationship. it just showed how they navigated these trials in their life. My only complaint was that I got frustrated with the constant internal monologue over the same things every time. and I don't like hearing about "well I know I should tell him but I'm not going to" over and over and over.
I really liked the main characters and although I would have liked to hear how they got Eleanor away from her disgusting dad it was okay not to focus on it.
John Lane is the narrator and he does an amazing job I'd listen to him read cereal boxes for entertainment! He's just that good.
I really like this one! It was funny and fun and although it was action-packed a bit and mystery kind of a little it didn't detract from their relationship. it just showed how they navigated these trials in their life. My only complaint was that I got frustrated with the constant internal monologue over the same things every time. and I don't like hearing about "well I know I should tell him but I'm not going to" over and over and over.
I really liked the main characters and although I would have liked to hear how they got Eleanor away from her disgusting dad it was okay not to focus on it.
John Lane is the narrator and he does an amazing job I'd listen to him read cereal boxes for entertainment! He's just that good.
June 16, 2020
An actress
Netta lives by her wits. She's an actress. She left her real life six years ago. Every coin she makes she saves for a younger sister she's sworn to protect. One night dressed as a boy of the streets, she tries to rob John, Earl of Summerset. Rescued by the Earl and discovering her disguise, Netta and John begin a passionate affair. Netta keeps her real identity secret until a threat to John and her sister from a common enemy makes it impossible to keep. Includes games of sex,
humor and former spies of the Crown.
Netta lives by her wits. She's an actress. She left her real life six years ago. Every coin she makes she saves for a younger sister she's sworn to protect. One night dressed as a boy of the streets, she tries to rob John, Earl of Summerset. Rescued by the Earl and discovering her disguise, Netta and John begin a passionate affair. Netta keeps her real identity secret until a threat to John and her sister from a common enemy makes it impossible to keep. Includes games of sex,
humor and former spies of the Crown.
July 7, 2025
How many times have we read a series with each subsequent book losing the edge and verve of the first couple of books? Not this time. This story is as good or better than all the others. The characters are dynamic. Humor adds relief and humanity to ugly heart wrenching challenges. Summerset is masculine, virile, protective, and clever. Netta is resourceful, sensual, playful, and courageous. Their story was uncommon and compelling. Intimacy is explicit 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ with both partners giving unrestrained pleasure 🔥
August 2, 2019
Like all the books Alyson chase write I enjoyed reading this one. with an intriguing plot and great characters that just sucks you in to the book. john a retired spy trying to save what is left of his earldom after his brother gamble it all away and a well learn lady in everything comes together what can go wrong. this and the entire series are a MUST READ for anyone who like steamy adult regency romance.
September 5, 2019
Another successful story
All characters in this series reappear in each story. And even though each book is about a different couple it is exciting to see all 5 friends together in each 1. Plus each story is different which makes for an exciting story line. I was afraid this would be the last book in the series but with the ending, hopefully we will continue to be engaged in more antics. Thanks to the author for another wonderful read.
All characters in this series reappear in each story. And even though each book is about a different couple it is exciting to see all 5 friends together in each 1. Plus each story is different which makes for an exciting story line. I was afraid this would be the last book in the series but with the ending, hopefully we will continue to be engaged in more antics. Thanks to the author for another wonderful read.
March 9, 2024
Awesome series
This book was the last in the series and also my favorite. I wasn't sure if I'd like John as he felt to me like a dandy in the other books but man was I wrong. I loved the story line between John and Netta and the ending pulled the whole series together, tying it up in a nice little bow. The heat off this series sizzles and left me wanting more. I'm sad it's over but darn it,what a great ride!
This book was the last in the series and also my favorite. I wasn't sure if I'd like John as he felt to me like a dandy in the other books but man was I wrong. I loved the story line between John and Netta and the ending pulled the whole series together, tying it up in a nice little bow. The heat off this series sizzles and left me wanting more. I'm sad it's over but darn it,what a great ride!
October 30, 2022
John e Netta, a melhor heroína da série, mesmo assim não consigo entender a boa classificação da autora, não tem profundidade emocional as cenas de sexo são entediantes e a coisa mais interessante do livro, foi o vilão
Valeu a leitura, mas com certeza não é uma série q eu lerei novamente. Nenhum dos livros dessa autora entraria na minha prateleira de favoritos
Valeu a leitura, mas com certeza não é uma série q eu lerei novamente. Nenhum dos livros dessa autora entraria na minha prateleira de favoritos
September 17, 2023
DNF at 49%. This book keeps putting me to sleep, and I'm just so bored. I really loved some of the books in the series, but the last two are a disappointment. I love, love Netta, but the complete lack of forward movement in the writing makes what should be a sparkling story about two interesting characters totally lackluster. And I'm in my DNF era, so....
July 26, 2019
I love this series! I’ve been eagerly awaiting Sommerset’s book, and it did not disappoint. John and Netta were a perfect match. The plot was great, and took a lot of turns I didn’t expect. Every time I thought it was taking a cliche route, it turned it on its head.
July 26, 2019
I like Alyson's notes.
This book was worth the wait. Netta is smart and a survivor. She deserves sexy times. John does not disappoint. I hope there is a spin off mystery series with sexy times.
This book was worth the wait. Netta is smart and a survivor. She deserves sexy times. John does not disappoint. I hope there is a spin off mystery series with sexy times.
December 25, 2019
This was my least favourite of the series - my favourites being the first and fourth. All were slightly saucy so not for the faint hearted. I enjoyed the comradeship between the main characters and the stories behind each of them.
August 31, 2020
Lacking
Definitely not as good as the previous books in the series. Did author run out of ideas? First third of the plot is copy of My Fair Lady -including marbles- and not particularly well done. Drags on.
Definitely not as good as the previous books in the series. Did author run out of ideas? First third of the plot is copy of My Fair Lady -including marbles- and not particularly well done. Drags on.
May 22, 2021
What I think of Played BY The Earl
The story was fun I read start to finish in one sitting. I enjoyed the characters and it's not a book I would not suggest for senior family members to read. I believe it is just enjoyable. Well written and nice and enjoyable to follow.
The story was fun I read start to finish in one sitting. I enjoyed the characters and it's not a book I would not suggest for senior family members to read. I believe it is just enjoyable. Well written and nice and enjoyable to follow.
February 21, 2024
The whole series was leading up to this final book and I wanted to like it more so badly!! I love a ridiculous high femme man, so my hopes were high for this book. But I just felt it to be a little cheesy and there were also multiple plot points that were never resolved or touched on again.
July 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this story!
July 7, 2021
good read.
great series.
yummy sex.
great series.
yummy sex.
October 11, 2021
hilarious and adorable… Netta and John were perfect. So many laugh out loud moments.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews