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The Way to a Lord's Heart #5
Earl's Well That Ends Well
How to help a lonely Earl...
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has helped four young noblemen recover from grief and find love, but he's learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, his estate feels too empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced.
There is no room for earls in the quiet, safe life Teresa has finally found for herself. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. But the more determined Teresa is to discourage Arthur, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has helped four young noblemen recover from grief and find love, but he's learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, his estate feels too empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced.
There is no room for earls in the quiet, safe life Teresa has finally found for herself. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. But the more determined Teresa is to discourage Arthur, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 29, 2020
92 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
Jane Ashford
52 books402 followersJane Ashford has written historical and contemporary romances. Her books have been published in England, Spain, France, Italy, Sweden, Slovakia, Denmark, Russia, and Latvia, Croatia and Slovenia as well as the U.S. She was nominated for a Career Achievement Award by RT Book Reviews. Her latest book, Lost Time, is romantic suspense with a touch of magic.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
Her website is https://www.janeashford.com/ and her Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW... If you'd like to subscribe to Jane's monthly newsletter go to www.eepurl.com/cd-O7r and sign up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
October 24, 2020
3.5 stars
Can a novel still be categorized as romance when your romantic leads are levelheaded to a fault? Earl's Well That Ends Well, with its homonymous word play of a title, might has misrepresented itself as a potentially quirky, lively affair. While the book is skillfully crafted and never dull, the minuscule presence of courtship might disappoint readers seeking escapist romance fun.
The romantic pairing will instantly hook you: a well-reputed widowed earl in his 50s (still handsome and in good shape, as the book constantly reminds us), and a Spanish noblewoman (in her early 40s) with a traumatic past, perfectly content with solitude for life. Even though the mutual attraction is established early on, author Jane Ashford keeps them at arm's length: the earl too polite to encroach, the noblewoman too stubborn to disrupt her hard-earned peace. This standstill is maintained well into 70% of the story, when their relationship finally comes to the forefront and advances. When it rains, it pours, even though the sample-sized romance still manages to close out the narrative on a gratifying note, it remains an off-balanced storytelling, even for the most patient reader.
**Minor spoiler ahead**
To fill that romance-less 70%, Earl's Well That Ends Well paints an engrossing world packed with a surprisingly large cast of secondary characters, and a very plot-driven narrative. I was pleasantly surprised to realize the main narrative through line involves solving a serial kidnapping scheme. Being the fifth book in a series, I'm sure readers with previous knowledge will be happy to see characters returning for another round.
**Minor spoiler ends**
While I didn't get the brash banter filled, passion-exploding novel I was hoping for (I mean, the earl is clearly going through a midlife crisis, how can you not have fun starting with that?), I do appreciate Jane Ashford's more sensible, slowburn approach. Just beware in Earl's Well That Ends Well, it focuses more on things happening around the two leads, rather than things between them.
***This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!***
Can a novel still be categorized as romance when your romantic leads are levelheaded to a fault? Earl's Well That Ends Well, with its homonymous word play of a title, might has misrepresented itself as a potentially quirky, lively affair. While the book is skillfully crafted and never dull, the minuscule presence of courtship might disappoint readers seeking escapist romance fun.
The romantic pairing will instantly hook you: a well-reputed widowed earl in his 50s (still handsome and in good shape, as the book constantly reminds us), and a Spanish noblewoman (in her early 40s) with a traumatic past, perfectly content with solitude for life. Even though the mutual attraction is established early on, author Jane Ashford keeps them at arm's length: the earl too polite to encroach, the noblewoman too stubborn to disrupt her hard-earned peace. This standstill is maintained well into 70% of the story, when their relationship finally comes to the forefront and advances. When it rains, it pours, even though the sample-sized romance still manages to close out the narrative on a gratifying note, it remains an off-balanced storytelling, even for the most patient reader.
**Minor spoiler ahead**
To fill that romance-less 70%, Earl's Well That Ends Well paints an engrossing world packed with a surprisingly large cast of secondary characters, and a very plot-driven narrative. I was pleasantly surprised to realize the main narrative through line involves solving a serial kidnapping scheme. Being the fifth book in a series, I'm sure readers with previous knowledge will be happy to see characters returning for another round.
**Minor spoiler ends**
While I didn't get the brash banter filled, passion-exploding novel I was hoping for (I mean, the earl is clearly going through a midlife crisis, how can you not have fun starting with that?), I do appreciate Jane Ashford's more sensible, slowburn approach. Just beware in Earl's Well That Ends Well, it focuses more on things happening around the two leads, rather than things between them.
***This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!***
September 27, 2024
I was so excited to receive this from Netgalley for an honest review. Then, the book turned out even better than I hoped! There are some books that are so good I can't put them down. This was a book I wanted to savor.
What a close to the series! I have read them all, but this could be read as a standalone. I would recommend just reading the one right before if you have time.
I will start by saying that I really didn't like book 1; so if you didn't either, you may still want to try another. The setup felt contrived, and I didn't really like the hero. I may reread at some point to see if my opinion changes. If I hadn't already read and enjoyed other books by Jane Ashford, I might not have continued the series. I am glad that I did.
The hero of this story, Lord Macklin, is a secondary character in all the books, who with his sidekick Tom, a happy go lucky orphan drifter, help along the romances to heal the grieving hearts.
After helping the others, Lord Macklin, who has been a widower for about 10 years, realizes he is lonely and considers for the first time finding his own second chance at happiness in his 50s. Only after he is open to the possibility does he meet Teresa. She is a beautiful Spanish woman about a decade younger who paints backgrounds for the theater where Tom works.
The two are attracted to each other, but Teresa definitely keeps as distant as she can. Tom has learned from his mentor and tries his own hand at playing matchmaker. The two become friends and then work on solving a mystery together.
The story was refreshingly unique and as different as each other in the series were. The hero was perfect - wise, kind, and of good character. There was a dark mystery and some lighthearted humorous scenes that made me laugh out loud. I thoroughly enjoyed it and have no complaints.
Oh, and for those who may want to know, this was a clean story with no sex scenes.
What a close to the series! I have read them all, but this could be read as a standalone. I would recommend just reading the one right before if you have time.
I will start by saying that I really didn't like book 1; so if you didn't either, you may still want to try another. The setup felt contrived, and I didn't really like the hero. I may reread at some point to see if my opinion changes. If I hadn't already read and enjoyed other books by Jane Ashford, I might not have continued the series. I am glad that I did.
The hero of this story, Lord Macklin, is a secondary character in all the books, who with his sidekick Tom, a happy go lucky orphan drifter, help along the romances to heal the grieving hearts.
After helping the others, Lord Macklin, who has been a widower for about 10 years, realizes he is lonely and considers for the first time finding his own second chance at happiness in his 50s. Only after he is open to the possibility does he meet Teresa. She is a beautiful Spanish woman about a decade younger who paints backgrounds for the theater where Tom works.
The two are attracted to each other, but Teresa definitely keeps as distant as she can. Tom has learned from his mentor and tries his own hand at playing matchmaker. The two become friends and then work on solving a mystery together.
The story was refreshingly unique and as different as each other in the series were. The hero was perfect - wise, kind, and of good character. There was a dark mystery and some lighthearted humorous scenes that made me laugh out loud. I thoroughly enjoyed it and have no complaints.
Oh, and for those who may want to know, this was a clean story with no sex scenes.
October 15, 2020
Earl of Macklin, Arthur Shelton, learned to live his own life as a widower. When he returns home after traveling, his estate feels too empty, and he quickly heads to London where he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced. There begins the pull and tug relationship and the more determined Teresa is to discourage Arthur, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love. Love which I absolutely did not have for this novel.
The first quarter of any book is crucial and can literally make or break it. If the author fails to gain the attention of the reader (me), get ready to wave your hand and say sayonara because this girl is gone! I tried really really hard to like this but goodness gracious this was a snoozefest. From the leading characters, romance, meek storyline and everything else in between. I just couldn’t do it anymore and had to unfortunately drop this. I gave this more than a fair shot to impress me but nope. It was more than apparent it wasn’t happening and I ponder, how did I keep my eyes open for this?
All in all, this was more of a ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ type of read and I hope the next novel I read from this author is something to write home about.
March 5, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Earl’s well that ends well is the fifth book in Jane Ashford’s “The Way to a Lord’s Heart” series but the first I’ve read from this series and by this author so maybe I would’ve appreciated it much more if I’d read the previous books.
While the book is entertaining enough to keep you turning the pages it has two big problems IMO:
- The romance is almost non-existent in favor of a mystery plot. Unlike other readers I don’t mind when there’s a mystery plot in my historical romances (in fact, I prefer it) but in this case I don’t think the plot is well executed and its resolution is too convenient and not that thrilling. The fact that a good chunk of the book is spent on this mystery makes the relationship between the two main characters underdeveloped and the chemistry between them is nowhere to be found.
- The heroine. I couldn’t stand her and her attitude towards the hero for most of the book. I can understand her past makes it difficult for her to trust people, but she’s so awful and rude to him and every other character that comes in contact with her with no reason whatsoever that I couldn’t warm up to her.
Although a bit of a letdown I’ll read some of the other books in the series as I’m curious about the backstory of some of the secondary characters that appear in this one.
Earl’s well that ends well is the fifth book in Jane Ashford’s “The Way to a Lord’s Heart” series but the first I’ve read from this series and by this author so maybe I would’ve appreciated it much more if I’d read the previous books.
While the book is entertaining enough to keep you turning the pages it has two big problems IMO:
- The romance is almost non-existent in favor of a mystery plot. Unlike other readers I don’t mind when there’s a mystery plot in my historical romances (in fact, I prefer it) but in this case I don’t think the plot is well executed and its resolution is too convenient and not that thrilling. The fact that a good chunk of the book is spent on this mystery makes the relationship between the two main characters underdeveloped and the chemistry between them is nowhere to be found.
- The heroine. I couldn’t stand her and her attitude towards the hero for most of the book. I can understand her past makes it difficult for her to trust people, but she’s so awful and rude to him and every other character that comes in contact with her with no reason whatsoever that I couldn’t warm up to her.
Although a bit of a letdown I’ll read some of the other books in the series as I’m curious about the backstory of some of the secondary characters that appear in this one.
December 25, 2020
Earl's Well That Ends Well
The Way to a Lord's Heart Series #5
Jane Ashford
https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW...
Release Date 12/29/2020
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
This beautiful, clean Regency romance from beloved author Jane Ashford takes you to a glittering world of revelations and romance, where a lonely earl can find love where he least expects it...
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has helped four young noblemen recover from grief and find love, but he's learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, his estate feels too empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced.
There is no room for earls in the quiet, safe life Teresa has finally found for herself. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. The more determined Teresa is to discourage Arthur, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her past impede her to listen to her heart ...
From the moment I discovered this series, I was very much curious about Macklin, and after the last book, I had great expectancy about a future release with his own HEA.
And one thing is certain the author did not disappoint. I loved every minutes of this read.
It is a different setting than the previous books as Macklin was helping young men to find a new path, with love on their journey, now he is the one struck by lightning.
But there is still young Tom to follow him.
So it was nice to learn more about this man, after decades of following society’s rules, he strayed a bit when he involved himself in others’ life, but still answered to the ton’s dictates.
But upon his first encounter with Teresa, he finds himself at loss, navigating for once new waters. He does not know how to interact with her without offending or angering her, she is not swayed and does not coo because he is an Earl, even more, she seems to reject him because of it. She is irritable and avoid him as much as possible. If not for Tom, she would do her best to never see him again.
Teresa is the enigma of this tale, who is she and why does she act in stark contrast to most women. When her past is reveled, she has every right to be wary of men and their supposed protectiveness. She went from having it all to having none at all, with only herself to rely on. She learned the harsh way how to swim among sharks lurking in the shadow to ponce on whom they will see as easy prey. Why she will need time to acknowledge Macklin as being different from the other men of power. What she thought first as being condescending is in fact real interest in the persons he mingles with, he is no meaningless patron, he cares about the people he befriends.
I loved watching them walk toward the other at their own peculiar speed, each tiny gesture or deed revealing a part of each other’s inner strength and kindness. Until there is no denying of their feelings.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some sweet kissing.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
The Way to a Lord's Heart Series #5
Jane Ashford
https://www.facebook.com/JaneAshfordW...
Release Date 12/29/2020
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
This beautiful, clean Regency romance from beloved author Jane Ashford takes you to a glittering world of revelations and romance, where a lonely earl can find love where he least expects it...
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has helped four young noblemen recover from grief and find love, but he's learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, his estate feels too empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced.
There is no room for earls in the quiet, safe life Teresa has finally found for herself. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. The more determined Teresa is to discourage Arthur, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her past impede her to listen to her heart ...
From the moment I discovered this series, I was very much curious about Macklin, and after the last book, I had great expectancy about a future release with his own HEA.
And one thing is certain the author did not disappoint. I loved every minutes of this read.
It is a different setting than the previous books as Macklin was helping young men to find a new path, with love on their journey, now he is the one struck by lightning.
But there is still young Tom to follow him.
So it was nice to learn more about this man, after decades of following society’s rules, he strayed a bit when he involved himself in others’ life, but still answered to the ton’s dictates.
But upon his first encounter with Teresa, he finds himself at loss, navigating for once new waters. He does not know how to interact with her without offending or angering her, she is not swayed and does not coo because he is an Earl, even more, she seems to reject him because of it. She is irritable and avoid him as much as possible. If not for Tom, she would do her best to never see him again.
Teresa is the enigma of this tale, who is she and why does she act in stark contrast to most women. When her past is reveled, she has every right to be wary of men and their supposed protectiveness. She went from having it all to having none at all, with only herself to rely on. She learned the harsh way how to swim among sharks lurking in the shadow to ponce on whom they will see as easy prey. Why she will need time to acknowledge Macklin as being different from the other men of power. What she thought first as being condescending is in fact real interest in the persons he mingles with, he is no meaningless patron, he cares about the people he befriends.
I loved watching them walk toward the other at their own peculiar speed, each tiny gesture or deed revealing a part of each other’s inner strength and kindness. Until there is no denying of their feelings.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some sweet kissing.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
November 9, 2020
A nice conclusion to a great series. I loved that Teresa and Macklin were both mature adults over 30, which made this book much more relatable. I think a reader would benefit from reading the previous books in the series first, so that they might appreciate this book all the more. Worth the read.
October 16, 2020
I really really really appreciate when an author gives a non-traditional character whom we've all loved throughout a series a happy ending of their very own. This particular matchmaking Earl was very much deserving of a second romance of his own. At nearly 50 - he is definitely older than most romance novel heroes. He is however, still pretty youthful in description and activities. He has grown children - and grandchildren - and is looking for his own happy ending. He is such a kind man - and even though he is a product of his time - he is much more open to supporting young women and men to finding happiness and living their best lives. He really wants only the best for others.
Teresa is a survivor. She is originally from Spain, where her family lost everything in Napoleon's grab for power across the continent. She did what she needed to survive - and has now made a life for herself in London. She is fairly bitter about the hand life has dealt her - but has found some peace having a small home and painting scenery for London theatres.
I enjoyed this book a lot - especially Teresa learning to trust again and Arthur learning about his own privilege and how those who don't have that same privilege can be very vulnerable. Particularly women. His education in that department is pretty soft- but still very real.
I am hopeful that we might get to see more of the girls - maybe as they grow up a little bit more - and in a few years a story for Tom of course.
Overall - I am so happy Jane Ashford gave the Earl of Macklin a story of his own.
I received this book as an an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Teresa is a survivor. She is originally from Spain, where her family lost everything in Napoleon's grab for power across the continent. She did what she needed to survive - and has now made a life for herself in London. She is fairly bitter about the hand life has dealt her - but has found some peace having a small home and painting scenery for London theatres.
I enjoyed this book a lot - especially Teresa learning to trust again and Arthur learning about his own privilege and how those who don't have that same privilege can be very vulnerable. Particularly women. His education in that department is pretty soft- but still very real.
I am hopeful that we might get to see more of the girls - maybe as they grow up a little bit more - and in a few years a story for Tom of course.
Overall - I am so happy Jane Ashford gave the Earl of Macklin a story of his own.
I received this book as an an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
October 31, 2020
What do you get when an earl decides his life needs shaking up? Ten years after his wife’s death, Arthur, decides he needs to allow himself to be happy again. He becomes attracted to a woman, Theresa, who mistrusts men and does not want to be noticed. I enjoyed this last book in the Way to a Lord’s Heart Series. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for my honest review.
December 28, 2020
Arthur Shelton, seventh Earl of Macklin, 49, has spent a nice Christmas with his children and their families. He lost his wife, Celia, 10 ten years ago from a fever. Even with his own grief, he has helped 4 young men with their own grief, enabling them to find happiness and love again. Now, he realizes it’s time for him to find love again too.
Back in London, he sees Tom, a young man he helped from being on the streets to now working and living an honest life. He enjoys the theater and like to work with the scenery. Walking together one day they encounter a young woman fighting off a bully. Tom introduces her as Señora Teresa Alvarez de Granada. Tom says she paints the scenery and is quite talented. She acts aloof to Arthur which surprises him. Then she turns and leaves abruptly. Tom explains that she lives quietly with a servant and seems to have a small income. Arthur thinks she was born a lady and now lives a life of reduced circumstances. She likes her simple life and her privacy. When Arthur comes by the theater one day to see Tom, Teresa is there and again acts aloof. However, Arthur does what he can to talk to her and draw her out.
Arthur later learns that Teresa’s family lost so much in the war and she is bitter. Perhaps he can help her overcome her own type of grief.
Arthur and Teresa join Tom and some of their friends from the theater in get-togethers. That’s when I began to wonder why I was reading this book in the first place. Why is an older earl hanging around with younger people and trying to impress some woman who treats him with disdain? I have read many books by this author and have enjoyed only a few. in recent years I find her books to be off the wall. Sorry, I try to continue to give authors like this the benefit of the doubt and try them again, but I think I’m done here.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Back in London, he sees Tom, a young man he helped from being on the streets to now working and living an honest life. He enjoys the theater and like to work with the scenery. Walking together one day they encounter a young woman fighting off a bully. Tom introduces her as Señora Teresa Alvarez de Granada. Tom says she paints the scenery and is quite talented. She acts aloof to Arthur which surprises him. Then she turns and leaves abruptly. Tom explains that she lives quietly with a servant and seems to have a small income. Arthur thinks she was born a lady and now lives a life of reduced circumstances. She likes her simple life and her privacy. When Arthur comes by the theater one day to see Tom, Teresa is there and again acts aloof. However, Arthur does what he can to talk to her and draw her out.
Arthur later learns that Teresa’s family lost so much in the war and she is bitter. Perhaps he can help her overcome her own type of grief.
Arthur and Teresa join Tom and some of their friends from the theater in get-togethers. That’s when I began to wonder why I was reading this book in the first place. Why is an older earl hanging around with younger people and trying to impress some woman who treats him with disdain? I have read many books by this author and have enjoyed only a few. in recent years I find her books to be off the wall. Sorry, I try to continue to give authors like this the benefit of the doubt and try them again, but I think I’m done here.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 30, 2020
This book was not my typical romance novel and honestly read more as a mystery novel with some romance thrown in. The two main characters, Lord Macklin and Teresa, are surrounded by a large cast of characters. I could tell that I was picking a series up mid-series but had trouble seeing this as a stand alone book. The mystery plot really was the focus of the novel and I felt like there wasn't alot of emotional scenes or build up between the H and h. I had a difficult time rooting for them as a couple because they were so staid and proper. There was great character development, and I feel like I understood Macklin's and Teresa' personalities, but I missed the steam and angsty build up I am used to in my romance books.
I do not feel like this novel would satisfy a true romance reader who had not read the previous books in the series, however. I would recommend this book to someone who loves a full plot, a full cast of characters and a good story with some romance thrown in.
I do not feel like this novel would satisfy a true romance reader who had not read the previous books in the series, however. I would recommend this book to someone who loves a full plot, a full cast of characters and a good story with some romance thrown in.
March 6, 2021
What I liked:
Non typical characters, the fact that they were around the same ages as my husband and me made it intriguing.
The book had an actual plot and a mystery.
The hero wasn’t commandeering or sexist but still managed to be intriguing, proving men don’t have to be predators or domineering to be desirable.
What I didn’t like:
There was very little romance, the characters felt a little forced until the last quarter of the book.
The build up of narrative was super slow. I really enjoy when romance novels have a real plot but this plot took too long to become interesting.
This is the first novel I’ve read by Jane Ashford. I plan to read another.
Non typical characters, the fact that they were around the same ages as my husband and me made it intriguing.
The book had an actual plot and a mystery.
The hero wasn’t commandeering or sexist but still managed to be intriguing, proving men don’t have to be predators or domineering to be desirable.
What I didn’t like:
There was very little romance, the characters felt a little forced until the last quarter of the book.
The build up of narrative was super slow. I really enjoy when romance novels have a real plot but this plot took too long to become interesting.
This is the first novel I’ve read by Jane Ashford. I plan to read another.
November 17, 2021
DNF 40% I immediately disliked the heroine in this one, Theresa. I understand that her past made her hesitant to trust anyone especially men, however, she was incredibly rude and treated the Hero, Arthur, with such disdain from the beginning and for absolutely no reason. I strongly dislike characters that blame an entire group (men) for the actions of one person. Not only is it unfair but it’s also immature and ignorant. I just couldn’t warm up to her and honestly I don’t know why Arthur was attracted to her. Maybe he’s a masochist 🤔 Long story short, the romance was lacking and the story was boring…IMO 🤷🏽♀️ Sorry, not sorry.
January 20, 2021
the heroine was awful and rude and mean to the hero the whole time and at 45% i’m supposed to believe she loves him??? nope
August 11, 2021
The characters felt like characters and not people.
Read
December 22, 2020I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
New goal for 2021: stop giving authors chances after books burn me so severely in hopes of getting something different next time. Earl’s Well That Ends Well is mostly a continuation of the previous book’s sense of pure boredom and nothingness (so much so I apparently didn’t finish it), so I don’t know why I decided to review this.
I did like that this focused on an older couple, so I had hope they would at least be interesting. Nope! This was so boring. They had no chemistry, no substance. I skimmed, hoping something would happen, and…nothing.
And apparently there was a mystery plot? One of the lower-star reviews I read to see if someone else felt the same sense of nothingness mentioned it. What mystery plot? That would involve there being some perceptible end goal, with a buildup of suspense. I didn’t get any of that.
I can’t say who would enjoy this, given my adverse reaction. I suppose if you love a more “traditional” style Regency romance?
New goal for 2021: stop giving authors chances after books burn me so severely in hopes of getting something different next time. Earl’s Well That Ends Well is mostly a continuation of the previous book’s sense of pure boredom and nothingness (so much so I apparently didn’t finish it), so I don’t know why I decided to review this.
I did like that this focused on an older couple, so I had hope they would at least be interesting. Nope! This was so boring. They had no chemistry, no substance. I skimmed, hoping something would happen, and…nothing.
And apparently there was a mystery plot? One of the lower-star reviews I read to see if someone else felt the same sense of nothingness mentioned it. What mystery plot? That would involve there being some perceptible end goal, with a buildup of suspense. I didn’t get any of that.
I can’t say who would enjoy this, given my adverse reaction. I suppose if you love a more “traditional” style Regency romance?
October 26, 2020
I'm always slightly disappointed by historical romance that spends more time on a mystery plot than the actual romance the reader is expecting, and I'm sad to say that this is the case here. The hero and heroine spend very little time together, and have almost no emotional scenes that would have served to make me believe in their love. This is partly due to the mystery plot, and partly due to the huge cast of characters they have to contend with, all of whom are written about as if the reader should know them already - I know this is book 5 in a series, but historical romance series are usually connected standalones, and it seems unusual not to introduce recurring characters in case readers come to it out of order. The writing is also slightly messy, with the point of view flicking back and forth between the hero and heroine in the space of a few paragraphs. Overall, I really struggled to enjoy this, sadly.
December 24, 2020
2/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book has too many characters and descriptions, it totally removed the fun of reading the main characters. It is well-written, though suffers from overly describing a lot of things and painfully long monologues. I also cannot care more for the main characters and their struggles and all. I can still see this being loved by other readers though.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book has too many characters and descriptions, it totally removed the fun of reading the main characters. It is well-written, though suffers from overly describing a lot of things and painfully long monologues. I also cannot care more for the main characters and their struggles and all. I can still see this being loved by other readers though.
March 20, 2021
Eh
I won't say I was excited to read the earl's story, but I was interested. I should have stayed away. It was either boring me to distraction, or making me angry over how bitter the h was toward the earl.
I won't say I was excited to read the earl's story, but I was interested. I should have stayed away. It was either boring me to distraction, or making me angry over how bitter the h was toward the earl.
January 6, 2021
Earl's Well That Ends Well is the fifth book in Jane Ashford's The Way to a Lord's Heart series. The clever title and beautiful cover first caught my eye. When I realized I've read two of the previous books in the series and really enjoyed them, I was happy to get an opportunity to review this installment. And when I realized this was Arthur's story, the matchmaker in the previous novels, I was ecstatic! Arthur really deserved his own HEA. Alas, though this was a pleasant story, I feel poor Arthur was cheated.
Arthur Shelton, the widowed Earl of Macklin, previously helped four grieving noblemen get past their grief and find love. Arthur, however, began to see how empty and lonely his own life was, so he returned to London. There he meets Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a Spanish noblewoman, and is quickly taken with the beautiful woman. Teresa, however, has been hurt and used in the past, and does her best to avoid the handsome earl. When the two begin to investigate the disappearance of young opera dancers that Teresa knew, however, she feels herself being drawn to Arthur. Can a woman with a past have a relationship with a highly respected lord and not ruin his life?
One thing I particularly liked about this story is that both leads were not in the first blush of youth; Arthur was a 50-year-old grandfather and Teresa, I believe, was in her 40's. That was a nice change of pace. I enjoyed reading about Arthur in the previous books, and I was thrilled that he would get the love he so richly deserved the second time around. I had trouble warming to Teresa, however. Though I could sympathize with her because she was previously hurt, I think she didn't give Arthur much opportunity to get to know her better; therefore, her growing feelings of love didn't ring true to me. The plot of the missing opera dancers seemed a bit contrived; I did, though, enjoy the bantering of the young ladies of the ton who wanted to help with the investigation. Though this wasn't a total win for me, it was an enjoyable sweet romance. I just think Arthur deserved more.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Arthur Shelton, the widowed Earl of Macklin, previously helped four grieving noblemen get past their grief and find love. Arthur, however, began to see how empty and lonely his own life was, so he returned to London. There he meets Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a Spanish noblewoman, and is quickly taken with the beautiful woman. Teresa, however, has been hurt and used in the past, and does her best to avoid the handsome earl. When the two begin to investigate the disappearance of young opera dancers that Teresa knew, however, she feels herself being drawn to Arthur. Can a woman with a past have a relationship with a highly respected lord and not ruin his life?
One thing I particularly liked about this story is that both leads were not in the first blush of youth; Arthur was a 50-year-old grandfather and Teresa, I believe, was in her 40's. That was a nice change of pace. I enjoyed reading about Arthur in the previous books, and I was thrilled that he would get the love he so richly deserved the second time around. I had trouble warming to Teresa, however. Though I could sympathize with her because she was previously hurt, I think she didn't give Arthur much opportunity to get to know her better; therefore, her growing feelings of love didn't ring true to me. The plot of the missing opera dancers seemed a bit contrived; I did, though, enjoy the bantering of the young ladies of the ton who wanted to help with the investigation. Though this wasn't a total win for me, it was an enjoyable sweet romance. I just think Arthur deserved more.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
December 29, 2020
Earl’s Well that Ends Well is the final book (#5) in Jane Ashford’s “The Way to a Lord’s Heart” series. How good is it? It’s so good that I immediately tracked down #1 through #4 in the series for immediate glomming.
It’s a fascinating series, centered around loss, grief, and mourning. One night Arthur Shelton, the seventh Earl of Macklin, asks four young men to join him for dinner at Whites. Two widowers, an orphan, and lastly, an orphan who recently lost his only sibling, a sister. Over the course of time, the earl beards each man (more accurately, each aristocrat) in their country estate and acts as a genial, low-key Cupid. Unobtrusively, he acts as a sounding board and gently chivies the young men into a space where they realize their future is brighter than their past.
But what of the Earl of Macklin? He’s been a widower for years. His was a happy marriage but at the age of fifty, he wonders if that’s all there is. One day at the theater, visiting Tom, his young protégé and friend, he meets a woman who renders him bouleversée. Teresa Alverez de Granada is a Spanish widow who lives in modest circumstances but she’s clearly from a noble background. Teresa is a talented set painter at the theater where Tom is employed.
Ashford has a way of sharing Teresa’s memories of Spain that convince the reader that hers is a complicated back story—as when she bites down on a Spanish olive.
The taste brought back the sunshine of her youth, the scent of lemons, the whisper of vine leaves stirring on an ancient pergola. Gone forever, but still remembered. She chewed memories. If only the good ones could be separated from the bad and kept like a casket of jewels to be taken out and admired at will.
Macklin wants to know everything about Teresa and Teresa tries, in vain, to prevent the earl from infiltrating her every thought. He is courteous, warm, friendly, and never overly familiar and Teresa is sorely tempted to explore a relationship with the earl, regardless of her chequered past.
Don’t make the mistake I made—start with the first book in the series, Brave New Earl. Soon enough, you’ll be loving Arthur and Teresa’s story.
It’s a fascinating series, centered around loss, grief, and mourning. One night Arthur Shelton, the seventh Earl of Macklin, asks four young men to join him for dinner at Whites. Two widowers, an orphan, and lastly, an orphan who recently lost his only sibling, a sister. Over the course of time, the earl beards each man (more accurately, each aristocrat) in their country estate and acts as a genial, low-key Cupid. Unobtrusively, he acts as a sounding board and gently chivies the young men into a space where they realize their future is brighter than their past.
But what of the Earl of Macklin? He’s been a widower for years. His was a happy marriage but at the age of fifty, he wonders if that’s all there is. One day at the theater, visiting Tom, his young protégé and friend, he meets a woman who renders him bouleversée. Teresa Alverez de Granada is a Spanish widow who lives in modest circumstances but she’s clearly from a noble background. Teresa is a talented set painter at the theater where Tom is employed.
Ashford has a way of sharing Teresa’s memories of Spain that convince the reader that hers is a complicated back story—as when she bites down on a Spanish olive.
The taste brought back the sunshine of her youth, the scent of lemons, the whisper of vine leaves stirring on an ancient pergola. Gone forever, but still remembered. She chewed memories. If only the good ones could be separated from the bad and kept like a casket of jewels to be taken out and admired at will.
Macklin wants to know everything about Teresa and Teresa tries, in vain, to prevent the earl from infiltrating her every thought. He is courteous, warm, friendly, and never overly familiar and Teresa is sorely tempted to explore a relationship with the earl, regardless of her chequered past.
Don’t make the mistake I made—start with the first book in the series, Brave New Earl. Soon enough, you’ll be loving Arthur and Teresa’s story.
December 18, 2020
This is a second chance historical romance between Lord Arthur Macklin and Teresa Alvarez de Granada. After healing from the loss of his wife, Arthur heads to London because his home feels too empty. Teresa, originally from Spain, is an intensely guarded and private person and her past has made her cynical. When Arthur first meets Teresa, she confronting and threatening a man with a sack of vegetables and he is instantly intrigued by her. But, she is cold and distant with him, not wishing to start a conversation or a friendship for that matter. It is soon discovered that there are missing dancers from the Opera that force Arthur and Teresa to work together to find the missing girls. Also, Teresa’s past is starting to catch up with her. The more time they spend together, the more their walls slowly begin to crumble and feelings start to develop!
The pacing of this book is slow because the writing is extremely descriptive. But, Ashford does a great job of bringing the book alive in my mind. But, I did find myself bored at certain points. I did not feel the connection and chemistry between Arthur and Teresa, however, I really love them as individual characters. They both had a lot of wisdom and life that brought a ton of depth into their characters. I loved that Teresa was confident and bold in herself and her identity. She knew who she was and what she wanted. I loved reading about a heroine who was strong both in her convictions and character. Arthur is a noble, kind, honest, and patient man. He was the whole package! He really sought to listen and understand Teresa and they had some of the most thought-provoking conversations. They challenge each other ideas and perceptions about societal standards for women and men. I enjoyed reading both their thoughts and perspectives and how they overcame the losses in their life.
*Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The pacing of this book is slow because the writing is extremely descriptive. But, Ashford does a great job of bringing the book alive in my mind. But, I did find myself bored at certain points. I did not feel the connection and chemistry between Arthur and Teresa, however, I really love them as individual characters. They both had a lot of wisdom and life that brought a ton of depth into their characters. I loved that Teresa was confident and bold in herself and her identity. She knew who she was and what she wanted. I loved reading about a heroine who was strong both in her convictions and character. Arthur is a noble, kind, honest, and patient man. He was the whole package! He really sought to listen and understand Teresa and they had some of the most thought-provoking conversations. They challenge each other ideas and perceptions about societal standards for women and men. I enjoyed reading both their thoughts and perspectives and how they overcame the losses in their life.
*Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2020
3.5 out of 5
Earl’s Well That Ends Well is the final book in Jane Ashford’s Way To A Lords Heart series but you don’t need to read the other ones to like this one. This is a second chance love story set in Regency England but with a mystery to solve and cast of supporting characters that I enjoyed.
Arthur, the Earl of Macklin, is a 50 year old widower who has spent the past year helping people find happiness and following the career of his apprentice Tom as an actor. Terese Alvarez de Granada is a 40 year old living alone, painting sets for the plays that Tom is in. They meet when he steps in to save her from a bully, which she is not happy about. They begin an unlikely friendship as they try to solve the disappearance of several dancing girls.
I am not usually a fan of second chance love stories but Arthur and Teresa were just such likable characters. Arthur was kind, considerate and in contrary to the men of the time, respectful to the dancers and Teresa. Teresa was content with her life after the drama she lived through and to be knocked over by this well bred man willing to give it up for her was the perfect ending or beginning for her story.
The supporting characters of the investigative ladies, Tom and Lady Grandison were delightful. The trio of investigators were breaking the rules of society and I loved it. I want to read more of Tom’s future story.
Overall this is a sweet, not steamy, read that I would recommend to someone looking for a historical romance with a mystery element.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
Earl’s Well That Ends Well is the final book in Jane Ashford’s Way To A Lords Heart series but you don’t need to read the other ones to like this one. This is a second chance love story set in Regency England but with a mystery to solve and cast of supporting characters that I enjoyed.
Arthur, the Earl of Macklin, is a 50 year old widower who has spent the past year helping people find happiness and following the career of his apprentice Tom as an actor. Terese Alvarez de Granada is a 40 year old living alone, painting sets for the plays that Tom is in. They meet when he steps in to save her from a bully, which she is not happy about. They begin an unlikely friendship as they try to solve the disappearance of several dancing girls.
I am not usually a fan of second chance love stories but Arthur and Teresa were just such likable characters. Arthur was kind, considerate and in contrary to the men of the time, respectful to the dancers and Teresa. Teresa was content with her life after the drama she lived through and to be knocked over by this well bred man willing to give it up for her was the perfect ending or beginning for her story.
The supporting characters of the investigative ladies, Tom and Lady Grandison were delightful. The trio of investigators were breaking the rules of society and I loved it. I want to read more of Tom’s future story.
Overall this is a sweet, not steamy, read that I would recommend to someone looking for a historical romance with a mystery element.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.
December 28, 2020
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has helped four young noblemen recover from grief and find love, but he's learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after travelling, his estate feels too empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced. There is no room for earls in the quiet, safe life Teresa has finally found for herself. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. The more determined Teresa is to discourage Arthur, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
This is the fifth book in the series & Arthur finds his HEA, I've wanted the gentle meddler to find happiness from the start of the series. Another aspect I loved was that Arthur is a grandfather in his fifties & Teresa is in her forties. They are attracted from their first meeting but their relationship only advances in the later third of the book. A well written book with strong characters & previous characters do make appearances which I love. I also love Tom & would love to meet him again when he’s mature & ready to marry. The book is well paced & held my interest all the way through, an enjoyable series finale
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the fifth book in the series & Arthur finds his HEA, I've wanted the gentle meddler to find happiness from the start of the series. Another aspect I loved was that Arthur is a grandfather in his fifties & Teresa is in her forties. They are attracted from their first meeting but their relationship only advances in the later third of the book. A well written book with strong characters & previous characters do make appearances which I love. I also love Tom & would love to meet him again when he’s mature & ready to marry. The book is well paced & held my interest all the way through, an enjoyable series finale
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 13, 2020
Earl’s Well that End’s Well by Jane Ashford is a historical romance. It is the fifth book in
The Way to a Lord’s Heart and reintroduces us to Arthur Shelton, the Earl of Macklin. The prior books all included Macklin helping other young men find their way out of grief.
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin helped four young noble men find their way out of grief. With each of them, he played matchmaker (He hated that word.) and they were able to move forward and marry their love of life. Macklin was at loose ends. He no longer has something to work on. In London, he tracked down his old friend Tom and through Tom meets Teresa Alvarez de Granada.
Teresa Alvarez de Granada wanted nothing to do with another rich man. She has her own small world where she was safe and able to take care of herself. She was painting the scenery at the theater, when she met Macklin. No matter what she does, Macklin was not able to leave her alone.
Together Teresa and Macklin worked to solve a horrible mystery and they found they enjoyed time with each other, but Teresa cannot let Macklin sacrifice himself for her. She was not an appropriate Countess material.
This is the fifth book in the The Way to a Lord’s Heart and presumably the last. The series offered hope to many about finding love again after struggles. Earl’s Well that End’s Well by Jane Ashford is a good read.
The Way to a Lord’s Heart and reintroduces us to Arthur Shelton, the Earl of Macklin. The prior books all included Macklin helping other young men find their way out of grief.
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin helped four young noble men find their way out of grief. With each of them, he played matchmaker (He hated that word.) and they were able to move forward and marry their love of life. Macklin was at loose ends. He no longer has something to work on. In London, he tracked down his old friend Tom and through Tom meets Teresa Alvarez de Granada.
Teresa Alvarez de Granada wanted nothing to do with another rich man. She has her own small world where she was safe and able to take care of herself. She was painting the scenery at the theater, when she met Macklin. No matter what she does, Macklin was not able to leave her alone.
Together Teresa and Macklin worked to solve a horrible mystery and they found they enjoyed time with each other, but Teresa cannot let Macklin sacrifice himself for her. She was not an appropriate Countess material.
This is the fifth book in the The Way to a Lord’s Heart and presumably the last. The series offered hope to many about finding love again after struggles. Earl’s Well that End’s Well by Jane Ashford is a good read.
December 23, 2020
Heartwarming romance for the older set!
Arthur's friendship with young Tom brings him into the world of the Drury Lane theater, especially its behind-the-scenes creative staff. He's instantly fascinated by the beautiful but guarded Senora Alvarez, but her quiet life is protected only by continuing to protect her secrets and avoid entanglements with men like Arthur.
Arthur and Teresa are both drawn into investigating the mysterious disappearances of some of the opera dancers, bringing Teresa well outside her comfort zone and showing Arthur a side of London he had not previously examined. I loved how Tom was their facilitator, how strong and focused he was despite his youth, and how determined he was to find out what had happened to his friends.
This story captivated me from the beginning and I devoured every page as fast as I could. I was instantly in love with all these characters, and laughed and cheered with them as they successfully completed their mission. I loved the way Teresa challenged Arthur on every level, and his plan to remove Teresa's last remaining obstacle was brilliantly executed.
The HEA was delightfully sweet, and I hope we haven't seen the last of this intriguing world. Ada's friends are perfectly poised to star in their own books, and I am looking forward to reading more from this author. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Arthur's friendship with young Tom brings him into the world of the Drury Lane theater, especially its behind-the-scenes creative staff. He's instantly fascinated by the beautiful but guarded Senora Alvarez, but her quiet life is protected only by continuing to protect her secrets and avoid entanglements with men like Arthur.
Arthur and Teresa are both drawn into investigating the mysterious disappearances of some of the opera dancers, bringing Teresa well outside her comfort zone and showing Arthur a side of London he had not previously examined. I loved how Tom was their facilitator, how strong and focused he was despite his youth, and how determined he was to find out what had happened to his friends.
This story captivated me from the beginning and I devoured every page as fast as I could. I was instantly in love with all these characters, and laughed and cheered with them as they successfully completed their mission. I loved the way Teresa challenged Arthur on every level, and his plan to remove Teresa's last remaining obstacle was brilliantly executed.
The HEA was delightfully sweet, and I hope we haven't seen the last of this intriguing world. Ada's friends are perfectly poised to star in their own books, and I am looking forward to reading more from this author. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
November 16, 2020
A Second Chance at Love
Jane Ashford concludes her The Way to a Lord's Heart Series with the Earl who facilitated the happiness of the four previous romances. Reading the previous books is recommended, but unnecessary to understand this book. After the death of his wife the Earl of Macklin, Arthur Shelton, cannot imagine his own happiness. London is where friends and new acquaintances can help him forget his loss. All Teresa Alvarez de Granada wants is her freedom, especially from meddlesome Earls. Arthur pursues Teresa respectively, by getting to know her interests. She expresses her distaste liberally, and is very opinionated about people and food. Their tart beginning, melts into a better understanding that outward appearances do not define who a person is. They are a well-matched couple in passion and principles. Jane Ashford word choice is a bit flowery, with words like “tumult” mixed in. Which fits the haughty airs that both characters are fond of. There are cameos from the character if the previous books as well. Earl's Well That Ends Well is a delightful, slow build historical romance about finding love later in life.
Jane Ashford concludes her The Way to a Lord's Heart Series with the Earl who facilitated the happiness of the four previous romances. Reading the previous books is recommended, but unnecessary to understand this book. After the death of his wife the Earl of Macklin, Arthur Shelton, cannot imagine his own happiness. London is where friends and new acquaintances can help him forget his loss. All Teresa Alvarez de Granada wants is her freedom, especially from meddlesome Earls. Arthur pursues Teresa respectively, by getting to know her interests. She expresses her distaste liberally, and is very opinionated about people and food. Their tart beginning, melts into a better understanding that outward appearances do not define who a person is. They are a well-matched couple in passion and principles. Jane Ashford word choice is a bit flowery, with words like “tumult” mixed in. Which fits the haughty airs that both characters are fond of. There are cameos from the character if the previous books as well. Earl's Well That Ends Well is a delightful, slow build historical romance about finding love later in life.
December 30, 2020
I´m not sure about this story. This is the first book I read from this author and I think the writing is really good.
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, he feels empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced.
But Teresa has finally found a life of peace for herself after suffering a lot in the hands of a noble man and the war. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. But as both work together to solve the mystery of missing theatre dancers, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
I usually prefer steamer romances. This is a bit old school for me, a lot of inner thinking and almost not actual physical interaction. It´s romantic in its own way you could say. I finished the book in a couple of days. It’s entertaining and the main characters are well developed. I really like that they are not a young couple.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, has learned to live his own life as a widower. Yet when he returns home after traveling, he feels empty, and he quickly heads to London. There, he encounters Teresa Alvarez de Granada, a charming Spanish noblewoman and is immediately entranced.
But Teresa has finally found a life of peace for herself after suffering a lot in the hands of a noble man and the war. The earl might be charming and handsome, but she knows firsthand how dangerous attraction can be. But as both work together to solve the mystery of missing theatre dancers, the more entangled they get, and it's only a matter of time before her respect for him starts to feel a lot like love.
I usually prefer steamer romances. This is a bit old school for me, a lot of inner thinking and almost not actual physical interaction. It´s romantic in its own way you could say. I finished the book in a couple of days. It’s entertaining and the main characters are well developed. I really like that they are not a young couple.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 17, 2020
This book has it all: Sleuthing, Action, Drama, and a romantic love story!
The author, Jane Ashford intertwines a person at his most powerful time in his life when he needs to decide what to expect for his future! She develops both characters so effortlessly that they seem so real and believable that you could put them into our world today. That is what a remarkable author can do is make you believe in their book and characters!
Arthur, the Earl of Macklin is at a crossroads in his life until he meets Teresa , Spanish noblewoman who is helping out at the local theatre by painting murals. The Earl is so smitten that he visits each day and brings lunch. She accepts, but not quite willingly. She has no time in her life for him and she is guarding a secret.
Let the adventures begin at the theatre! Sparks fly eventually, but will it be the love sparks or fire?
I definitely recommend this book!
The author, Jane Ashford intertwines a person at his most powerful time in his life when he needs to decide what to expect for his future! She develops both characters so effortlessly that they seem so real and believable that you could put them into our world today. That is what a remarkable author can do is make you believe in their book and characters!
Arthur, the Earl of Macklin is at a crossroads in his life until he meets Teresa , Spanish noblewoman who is helping out at the local theatre by painting murals. The Earl is so smitten that he visits each day and brings lunch. She accepts, but not quite willingly. She has no time in her life for him and she is guarding a secret.
Let the adventures begin at the theatre! Sparks fly eventually, but will it be the love sparks or fire?
I definitely recommend this book!
January 2, 2021
Over the last year, Arthur Shelton, Earl of Macklin, helped a group of four young men cope with the death of a loved one, to let go of the past, learn to live again, and find love. When his family leaves after their Christmas celebrations, he decides it is time for him to follow suit. While visiting his young friend Tom, he meets Teresa Alvarez. Teresa fled Spain to escape the horrors of Napoleon’s rampage. She paints scenery at the theatre workshop where Tom works. Arthur is taken with her immediately. Could she be part of the new life he desires? Will she even wish to be part of his future?
This is a wonderful story of second chances. The exciting plot has lots of action, adventure, and danger wrapped around an engaging courtship. Arthur and Teresa are joined by an awesome cast of characters. Tom, the three young ladies who love to solve mysteries and puzzles, and Miss Julia Grandison are absolutely delightful. The villains are just that. Arthur changes and loses some of his prim attitude during the story. You will love the red waistcoat with silver stripes and what happened when he wore it. An enjoyable read. I recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
This is a wonderful story of second chances. The exciting plot has lots of action, adventure, and danger wrapped around an engaging courtship. Arthur and Teresa are joined by an awesome cast of characters. Tom, the three young ladies who love to solve mysteries and puzzles, and Miss Julia Grandison are absolutely delightful. The villains are just that. Arthur changes and loses some of his prim attitude during the story. You will love the red waistcoat with silver stripes and what happened when he wore it. An enjoyable read. I recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
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