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Evesham #1
The Cold Earl's Bride
They took everything away from him.
His reputation as an honourable gentleman.
His hope for peace.
His faith in love.
Nevertheless, there is one thing that nobody can take from the merciless Marcus St. John, Earl of Grandover – his desire to take revenge on the men who wish for his demise. He is so very close to identifying the mysterious mastermind who is pulling all the strings in the background.
But then he stumbles into a cleverly designed trap, where he is suddenly forced to marry a woman who is clearly an instrument of his enemy.
The longer the ruthless earl has to watch this foe in his own house, the greater his doubts become about the role she is playing. She is smart and beautiful, and somehow, she touches his inner-most being in a way that had long since been forgotten. Is it possible that she has completely clouded his mind and confused his heart?
Just when he starts to believe that he can see through her clever little game, the cards are shuffled anew…
Mysterious – emotional – magical. A traditional, clean romance novel by Audrey Ashwood that takes place in the midst of the colourful Regency era. An ideal read for anyone who loves sentimental but courageous heroines, as well as confident and strong heroes.
His reputation as an honourable gentleman.
His hope for peace.
His faith in love.
Nevertheless, there is one thing that nobody can take from the merciless Marcus St. John, Earl of Grandover – his desire to take revenge on the men who wish for his demise. He is so very close to identifying the mysterious mastermind who is pulling all the strings in the background.
But then he stumbles into a cleverly designed trap, where he is suddenly forced to marry a woman who is clearly an instrument of his enemy.
The longer the ruthless earl has to watch this foe in his own house, the greater his doubts become about the role she is playing. She is smart and beautiful, and somehow, she touches his inner-most being in a way that had long since been forgotten. Is it possible that she has completely clouded his mind and confused his heart?
Just when he starts to believe that he can see through her clever little game, the cards are shuffled anew…
Mysterious – emotional – magical. A traditional, clean romance novel by Audrey Ashwood that takes place in the midst of the colourful Regency era. An ideal read for anyone who loves sentimental but courageous heroines, as well as confident and strong heroes.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2020
184 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Ashwood
13 books31 followersAudrey Ashwood hails from London, the city where she was born and raised. At a young age, she began diving into the world of literature, a world full of fairytales and Prince Charmings. Writing came later—no longer was she a spectator of fantasies; she was now a creator of them.
In her books, the villains get their just desserts—her stories are known for happy and deserved endings. Love, of course, plays a major role, even if it’s not the initial star of the show. With each written word, Audrey hopes to remind people that love transcends oceans and generations.
In her books, the villains get their just desserts—her stories are known for happy and deserved endings. Love, of course, plays a major role, even if it’s not the initial star of the show. With each written word, Audrey hopes to remind people that love transcends oceans and generations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 11, 2020
A nice entertaining historical romance.
August 14, 2020
Cold Earl never warmed up
I don't even have a title for this story! This author is new for me and will remain so! I have highlighted several points in this book that do not coincide with time period! Use of modern slang and no chemistry between the hero and the heroine! He treated his horse better than her! If you are looking for any steam or heat you better be in the kitchen! With almost 2,000 books on my kindle this one is not a keeper! The ending was flat and the mystery was almost obvious and unnecessary violent!
I don't even have a title for this story! This author is new for me and will remain so! I have highlighted several points in this book that do not coincide with time period! Use of modern slang and no chemistry between the hero and the heroine! He treated his horse better than her! If you are looking for any steam or heat you better be in the kitchen! With almost 2,000 books on my kindle this one is not a keeper! The ending was flat and the mystery was almost obvious and unnecessary violent!
January 21, 2026
Notes for me
4.5 stars
Marcus St John and Annabelle.
He wants revenge against Greywood for a past wrong.
Set up to be found alone together at a ball so they have to marry.
Neither wants it, but Marcus is convinced she was involved in setting him up. He feels like she’s a spy is in home.
His rules for their marriage include she’s discreet if she has affairs. Greywood is not allowed in his home. Annabelle is confused why he keeps mentioning Grey.
There is mystery and intrigue.
I took off half a star only because personal preference I don’t love the dead love trope.
Safety
This ends up being a clean romance with only a couple of kisses.
10% in and he’s mentioned she looks like Matilda, his beloved fiancée. She was taken from him 2 years ago. I don’t care for dead OWD. He compares their looks “Matilda’s eyes had been blue and had a much lovelier look”
A lady named Matilda is being mentioned as his “good friend” For a short time it appears they are more than friends, but Annabelle studies their body language and realizes they are not involved.
4.5 stars
Marcus St John and Annabelle.
He wants revenge against Greywood for a past wrong.
Set up to be found alone together at a ball so they have to marry.
Neither wants it, but Marcus is convinced she was involved in setting him up. He feels like she’s a spy is in home.
His rules for their marriage include she’s discreet if she has affairs. Greywood is not allowed in his home. Annabelle is confused why he keeps mentioning Grey.
There is mystery and intrigue.
I took off half a star only because personal preference I don’t love the dead love trope.
Safety
This ends up being a clean romance with only a couple of kisses.
10% in and he’s mentioned she looks like Matilda, his beloved fiancée. She was taken from him 2 years ago. I don’t care for dead OWD. He compares their looks “Matilda’s eyes had been blue and had a much lovelier look”
A lady named Matilda is being mentioned as his “good friend” For a short time it appears they are more than friends, but Annabelle studies their body language and realizes they are not involved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2020
This is a very unusual story from the start. A quick marriage of convenience neither the bride or groom want. Annabelle Carlisle, daughter of a Duke and Marcus St John, the Earl of Grandover have never even met before. Annabelle had heard of his reputation and well known love of females. Most of the mothers of the ton keep their daughters away from him. Annabelle is most comfortable at balls and social events hiding behind the plants on the edge of the room. This way she can enjoy her favorite past time Observing everyone and thing around her. She is very adapt at reading people.Which is how she knows something is going on with her younger sister Felicity and Viscount Greywood. Greywood is leading her sister out into the garden ! Annabelle follows hoping to stop Felicity from doing something stupid. Little does she know this one night will change her life.
Marcus is also following the couple but for very different reasons. He is watching the Viscount.
As fate would have it both Marcus and Annabelle run into each other at the some time.
There is so much going on in this story, mystery, the marriage in which Marcus does not trust her
thinks she is spying on him. Poor Annabelle does not understand why her husband is acting so cold and odd. There are many strange things going on in her new home. Their is a lot of betrayal from people who were thought to be friends and family.
With all this going on the attraction between Marcus and Annabelle is wonderful. Annabelle is a woman who like to speak what she is thinking. Unheard for this time period.
Poor Marcus can't figure her out, just when he is sure she is part of the people out to get him
she does something that then makes him think he is mistaken and she knows nothing.
What a great fast read, you will not want to put it down till the end.
You will love Annabelle from the start, and hate Marcus sometimes wanting to slap him. But by the end you just may find he's not so bad either...
I received an ARC and am giving my honest opinion. Hope you grab a copy and get started
you will be glad you did.... enjoy
Marcus is also following the couple but for very different reasons. He is watching the Viscount.
As fate would have it both Marcus and Annabelle run into each other at the some time.
There is so much going on in this story, mystery, the marriage in which Marcus does not trust her
thinks she is spying on him. Poor Annabelle does not understand why her husband is acting so cold and odd. There are many strange things going on in her new home. Their is a lot of betrayal from people who were thought to be friends and family.
With all this going on the attraction between Marcus and Annabelle is wonderful. Annabelle is a woman who like to speak what she is thinking. Unheard for this time period.
Poor Marcus can't figure her out, just when he is sure she is part of the people out to get him
she does something that then makes him think he is mistaken and she knows nothing.
What a great fast read, you will not want to put it down till the end.
You will love Annabelle from the start, and hate Marcus sometimes wanting to slap him. But by the end you just may find he's not so bad either...
I received an ARC and am giving my honest opinion. Hope you grab a copy and get started
you will be glad you did.... enjoy
June 2, 2020
ONE THRILLING BLOCK BUSTER!!!
Hell hath no fury! Audrey has this baby banging like a cheap screen door, throwing caution to the wind with this brilliantly composed dynamo that's as riveting as it is captivating, wrapping this little treasure up sleek, shiny and tight. Cognizant of the instant realization and charged atmosphere, along with a bevy of shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, ratcheting up the heat and magic, pulling them closer than they could have ever imagined. Shattering boundaries and dispensing lines, displaying the strengths and weaknesses being weighed and balanced, booting this gem into the eye of the storm, breaking it down, slamming it into overdrive, launching it into a hissy with a life-altering culmination. Bearing the burdens and defeating foes presenting this pulse racing, heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, page flipping, block busting bombshell, blasting this baby to life beautifully. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, betrayal, turmoil, intrigue, secrets, danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations, along with a boatload of moxie and sass, you have one intoxicating experience. Coiled, knotted and tightly woven, displaying the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's simplicity and awe inspiring in it's depth. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Awesome job Audrey, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Hell hath no fury! Audrey has this baby banging like a cheap screen door, throwing caution to the wind with this brilliantly composed dynamo that's as riveting as it is captivating, wrapping this little treasure up sleek, shiny and tight. Cognizant of the instant realization and charged atmosphere, along with a bevy of shocking twists and wicked turns, putting our characters through their paces, ratcheting up the heat and magic, pulling them closer than they could have ever imagined. Shattering boundaries and dispensing lines, displaying the strengths and weaknesses being weighed and balanced, booting this gem into the eye of the storm, breaking it down, slamming it into overdrive, launching it into a hissy with a life-altering culmination. Bearing the burdens and defeating foes presenting this pulse racing, heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, page flipping, block busting bombshell, blasting this baby to life beautifully. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, betrayal, turmoil, intrigue, secrets, danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations, along with a boatload of moxie and sass, you have one intoxicating experience. Coiled, knotted and tightly woven, displaying the explosive ups and agonizing downs, grounding in it's simplicity and awe inspiring in it's depth. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuinely charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Awesome job Audrey, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
November 27, 2020
Great read!!! I could not put it down!!!
This is a well-written, yet tangled tale of revenge. Some.of the characters were innocent bystanders, whi!e others were spies against their own country. Ms Ashwood has written a beautiful story of love and redemption set in a terse time between two countries at war. Annabelle, the o!dest daughter of an earl, seeks to protect her younger, impetuious sister who is immature and easi!y beguiled. Whi!e seeking to prevent her sister from creating irreprable harm to herself and her family, she is instead caught in an impossible position herself and forced into marriage with an almost stranger. As Annabelle strugles to understand why this has happened to her, she also seeks to understand the attitude of her new husband, Marcus. He is both exasperated and charming, but it is difficult to understand why, even given Annabelle's gift for reading body language. When she finally begins to see a bit of this strange yet alluring husband's reasoning, Marcus brings home a body, Annabelle is ready to leave, but she has begun to think she needs to stay. Marcus takes that choice from her, and Annabelle returns to the home of her parents. The story continues to twist as Annabelle's sister finally confesses to her, but it will take the quick intelligence of both Annabelle and her estranged husband to unwind the thread that leads to the people who are trying to kill him.....
Great book! I can hardly wait to get the next one! Thanks for an excellent goodread!p
This is a well-written, yet tangled tale of revenge. Some.of the characters were innocent bystanders, whi!e others were spies against their own country. Ms Ashwood has written a beautiful story of love and redemption set in a terse time between two countries at war. Annabelle, the o!dest daughter of an earl, seeks to protect her younger, impetuious sister who is immature and easi!y beguiled. Whi!e seeking to prevent her sister from creating irreprable harm to herself and her family, she is instead caught in an impossible position herself and forced into marriage with an almost stranger. As Annabelle strugles to understand why this has happened to her, she also seeks to understand the attitude of her new husband, Marcus. He is both exasperated and charming, but it is difficult to understand why, even given Annabelle's gift for reading body language. When she finally begins to see a bit of this strange yet alluring husband's reasoning, Marcus brings home a body, Annabelle is ready to leave, but she has begun to think she needs to stay. Marcus takes that choice from her, and Annabelle returns to the home of her parents. The story continues to twist as Annabelle's sister finally confesses to her, but it will take the quick intelligence of both Annabelle and her estranged husband to unwind the thread that leads to the people who are trying to kill him.....
Great book! I can hardly wait to get the next one! Thanks for an excellent goodread!p
June 2, 2020
This story has much going on and the intrigue and mystery will keep the reader on the edge and eager to find out where the truth is!
Annabelle Carlisle, daughter of a Duke, enjoys standing on the periphery of the room to watch the people at a ball. Doing so, she observes her younger sister, Felicity, being led into the garden by Viscount Greywood. With women never permitted to be alone with a man anywhere, Annabelle quickly follows to keep Felicity from making a dreadful mistake. But her actions put her in that same situation as Marcus St John, the Earl of Grandover, also follows into the garden as he is watching the Viscount. Marcus and Annabelle run into each other just as witnesses “catch” them and they must marry.
Much of the time, her new husband does not trust her, thanking she is spying on him, part of the people trying to betray him. And yet he feels an attraction to her and then figures he must be wrong about her. Who can he trust? All Annabelle wants is to be wanted and treated with respect and doesn’t understand why her husband is so cold. What is happening? Can he trust his wife? Is he any closer to the truth of his betrayer?
I enjoyed the complexity of the story being heightened by the mystery of whom to trust! And poor Annabelle is caught in the middle of it all. Will they ever have a HEA? Will the truth finally come out?
Annabelle Carlisle, daughter of a Duke, enjoys standing on the periphery of the room to watch the people at a ball. Doing so, she observes her younger sister, Felicity, being led into the garden by Viscount Greywood. With women never permitted to be alone with a man anywhere, Annabelle quickly follows to keep Felicity from making a dreadful mistake. But her actions put her in that same situation as Marcus St John, the Earl of Grandover, also follows into the garden as he is watching the Viscount. Marcus and Annabelle run into each other just as witnesses “catch” them and they must marry.
Much of the time, her new husband does not trust her, thanking she is spying on him, part of the people trying to betray him. And yet he feels an attraction to her and then figures he must be wrong about her. Who can he trust? All Annabelle wants is to be wanted and treated with respect and doesn’t understand why her husband is so cold. What is happening? Can he trust his wife? Is he any closer to the truth of his betrayer?
I enjoyed the complexity of the story being heightened by the mystery of whom to trust! And poor Annabelle is caught in the middle of it all. Will they ever have a HEA? Will the truth finally come out?
June 2, 2020
This story has much going on and the intrigue and mystery will keep the reader on the edge and eager to find out where the truth is!
Annabelle Carlisle, daughter of a Duke, enjoys standing on the periphery of the room to watch the people at a ball. Doing so, she observes her younger sister, Felicity, being led into the garden by Viscount Greywood. With women never permitted to be alone with a man anywhere, Annabelle quickly follows to keep Felicity from making a dreadful mistake. But her actions put her in that same situation as Marcus St John, the Earl of Grandover, also follows into the garden as he is watching the Viscount. Marcus and Annabelle run into each other just as witnesses “catch” them and they must marry.
Much of the time, her new husband does not trust her, thanking she is spying on him, part of the people trying to betray him. And yet he feels an attraction to her and then figures he must be wrong about her. Who can he trust? All Annabelle wants is to be wanted and treated with respect and doesn’t understand why her husband is so cold. What is happening? Can he trust his wife? Is he any closer to the truth of his betrayer?
I enjoyed the complexity of the story being heightened by the mystery of whom to trust! And poor Annabelle is caught in the middle of it all. Will they ever have a HEA? Will the truth finally come out?
Annabelle Carlisle, daughter of a Duke, enjoys standing on the periphery of the room to watch the people at a ball. Doing so, she observes her younger sister, Felicity, being led into the garden by Viscount Greywood. With women never permitted to be alone with a man anywhere, Annabelle quickly follows to keep Felicity from making a dreadful mistake. But her actions put her in that same situation as Marcus St John, the Earl of Grandover, also follows into the garden as he is watching the Viscount. Marcus and Annabelle run into each other just as witnesses “catch” them and they must marry.
Much of the time, her new husband does not trust her, thanking she is spying on him, part of the people trying to betray him. And yet he feels an attraction to her and then figures he must be wrong about her. Who can he trust? All Annabelle wants is to be wanted and treated with respect and doesn’t understand why her husband is so cold. What is happening? Can he trust his wife? Is he any closer to the truth of his betrayer?
I enjoyed the complexity of the story being heightened by the mystery of whom to trust! And poor Annabelle is caught in the middle of it all. Will they ever have a HEA? Will the truth finally come out?
June 3, 2020
What a outstanding story! Suspense, Revenge, Murder and Intrigue in The Cold Earl's Bride that will hold you spellbound until the very end. With a villain "the man of the shadows" who spins intricate web of mayhem and deception until slowly all the pieces start falling together that solve who the real villains are. Audrey Ashwood has outdone herself with this novel, she has given readers a book that is well-written, filled it with superb cast of characters and a strong plot that bring this read together perfectly! Her characters come to life as you find yourself drawn into their story, the scenes are so strikingly detailed it paints an incredible backdrop that you feel like you are one with the story. Marcus and Annabelle are so well developed you feel every emotion that they are feeling throughout the story and become very endearing as the story progresses. As Marcus and Annabelle reach out to the other in this slow burn love story filled with drama, secrets, angst, uncertainties, trials and tribulations, turmoil and as tensions intensify and mystery abounds with twists and turns that will make you hold your breath wandering what's around the next corner makes this one outstanding story! I can't wait to read Felicity's story in No Lord Desired. I wonder if Felicity will find her happy ever after with Hawthorne?
May 29, 2020
Lady Annabelle Carlisle in her second season found a fiance, she did not want and he had no intention of marrying but had given his word to wed." She loved to watch people and she was good at it and she felt she could read most people.
How she found a fiance, she was trying to protect her sister and got caught instead. It had to be with the cold Marcus St. John, Earl of Grandover.
He was a Catholic and he had a strange amount of deaths in his group. So he acquired a not too good reputation. But he had lost everything and wanted revenge. Two years ago, his fiance had been brutally murdered. His parents were dead also and he was the last Grandover. He felt Greywood and an unknown man were responsible. He needed to know who the unknown man was.
This was an excellent , who dun it? The characters were mysterious and Marcus seemed sometimes to be confused. He thought his wife was in cahoots with Greywood and was there to spy on him. She just wanted to feel liked and treated respectfully. The plot was written with a lot of thought and you could imagine what the house looked like, did Clarice look as she was described, was Marcus? So many people to look at to assess the likeliness of them being involved. Surprises pop up everywhere
and you will be amazed. I enjoyed the story but had a hard time liking Marcus. His coldness was not attractive. It did keep your interest and was hard to put down. I enjoyed it a lot. I highly recommend this novel.
I received this ARC from the Story Origin and voluntarily reviewed it.
How she found a fiance, she was trying to protect her sister and got caught instead. It had to be with the cold Marcus St. John, Earl of Grandover.
He was a Catholic and he had a strange amount of deaths in his group. So he acquired a not too good reputation. But he had lost everything and wanted revenge. Two years ago, his fiance had been brutally murdered. His parents were dead also and he was the last Grandover. He felt Greywood and an unknown man were responsible. He needed to know who the unknown man was.
This was an excellent , who dun it? The characters were mysterious and Marcus seemed sometimes to be confused. He thought his wife was in cahoots with Greywood and was there to spy on him. She just wanted to feel liked and treated respectfully. The plot was written with a lot of thought and you could imagine what the house looked like, did Clarice look as she was described, was Marcus? So many people to look at to assess the likeliness of them being involved. Surprises pop up everywhere
and you will be amazed. I enjoyed the story but had a hard time liking Marcus. His coldness was not attractive. It did keep your interest and was hard to put down. I enjoyed it a lot. I highly recommend this novel.
I received this ARC from the Story Origin and voluntarily reviewed it.
June 12, 2019
Annabell Carlisle, daughter of a duke, has no intention of getting married, much less to a man with a reputation as bad as Marcus St. John, the Earl of Grandover. When a strange series of events leads to their engagement, all her dreams of a love match and children vanish. Annabell can't understand what drives her perplexing and cold husband, and the strange events at her new home are even more mysterious.
This was a sweet clean romance that had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out the mystery. Well done on that front! Annabell and Marcus are great characters and great together. I loved that every time Marcus tried to shut Annabell out, she just tried to bring him closer. Watching Marcus' walls break down around her was lovely.
The narration was well done, she had a great range of voices and accents. It pulled me right into the story. I requested a copy of the audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review. I'd definitely recommend this one to fans of clean historical romance!
This was a sweet clean romance that had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out the mystery. Well done on that front! Annabell and Marcus are great characters and great together. I loved that every time Marcus tried to shut Annabell out, she just tried to bring him closer. Watching Marcus' walls break down around her was lovely.
The narration was well done, she had a great range of voices and accents. It pulled me right into the story. I requested a copy of the audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review. I'd definitely recommend this one to fans of clean historical romance!
June 3, 2020
Lady Annabelle, oldest daughter of the Duke of Evesham, while attending another ball in her second season noticed something happening between her sister Felicity and Lord Greywood. She started follow them as they made the way outside, and then heading toward the stables. Marcus, Lord Grandover was watching Lord Greywood, noticing Annabelle following him. They bump into each other, she screams and he silences her with a kiss. Her father shows up right then. Annabelle and Marcus are now engaged. They marry several weeks later. He thinks she's involved with Greywood, who he thinks is trying to kill him. The marriage is a farce, lots of rules and mistrust from Marcus. Annabelle is lonely, curious and doesn't understand any of it. The mistrust, secrets, lies, and reality is what makes this story. You will enjoy the twist and turns through the first few months of their marriage. Can Marcus and Annabelle find what they are looking for.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2020
Wrapped Up In Revenge💪🔪🔫
Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2020
Regency Era Romance💕 and Murder Mystery💀🔪🔫
Marcus St. John🐺🔪🔫💪, Earl of Grandover, has tunnel vision as far as finding and punishing the killer of his betrothed, Matilda. He thinks about it 🌙night and day. He suspects another noble, Viscount Greywood👺, of the murder. Marcus🐺🔪🔫💪 and his man, Vincent, are gathering clues.
Lady Annabelle Carlisle💃💋, eldest daughter of the Duke of Evesham, is a bluestocking AND a wallflower! She is always hiding in the dark corners at the balls her parents make her attend in hopes of finding her a husband. She doesn't want one!
How she ends up in an unwanted marriage👰 to Marcus🐺🔪🔫💪, who thinks she is also a spy for his enemy, Lord Greywood👺, is the focus of this fast paced, unique, and mesmerizing murder mystery💀🔪🔫 and Recency Era Romance 💕.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful example of a well written, high quality, very interesting Regency Romance💕. I read it straight through!
Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2020
Regency Era Romance💕 and Murder Mystery💀🔪🔫
Marcus St. John🐺🔪🔫💪, Earl of Grandover, has tunnel vision as far as finding and punishing the killer of his betrothed, Matilda. He thinks about it 🌙night and day. He suspects another noble, Viscount Greywood👺, of the murder. Marcus🐺🔪🔫💪 and his man, Vincent, are gathering clues.
Lady Annabelle Carlisle💃💋, eldest daughter of the Duke of Evesham, is a bluestocking AND a wallflower! She is always hiding in the dark corners at the balls her parents make her attend in hopes of finding her a husband. She doesn't want one!
How she ends up in an unwanted marriage👰 to Marcus🐺🔪🔫💪, who thinks she is also a spy for his enemy, Lord Greywood👺, is the focus of this fast paced, unique, and mesmerizing murder mystery💀🔪🔫 and Recency Era Romance 💕.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful example of a well written, high quality, very interesting Regency Romance💕. I read it straight through!
December 24, 2019
The Cold Earl's Bride was an interesting read by Audrey Ashwood. It certainly started with a bang since this is, after all a marriage of convenience book. It has both romance and intrigue, with the first dominating the second third of the story, as both Marcus (St. John) and Annabelle get to know each other and start developing feelings for each other, and the second dominating the last third of the book since this could be considered, after all, a romantic suspense.
While at times the story seemed to drag in its development, I ended up liking the intriguing part since I couldn't figure it out from early on. I also liked finding out that, thanks to Annabelle's cameo in Miss Honeyfield and the Dark Duke, this could be considered its continuation, while also seeming to be the start of a trilogy (since Annabelle has two other sisters). ~ 3.5 stars
While at times the story seemed to drag in its development, I ended up liking the intriguing part since I couldn't figure it out from early on. I also liked finding out that, thanks to Annabelle's cameo in Miss Honeyfield and the Dark Duke, this could be considered its continuation, while also seeming to be the start of a trilogy (since Annabelle has two other sisters). ~ 3.5 stars
May 26, 2020
This story is one suspenseful page turner that kept me on edge until the very end. With murders and attempted murders, betrayals and lots of intrigue going on Marcus, the Earl of Grandover, has his hands full, when in addition he is forced into a marriage with Lady Annabelle, whom he believes is a set up by the people out to get him. He distrusts her and treats her horribly from the onset of their Marriage. This couple has one rocky start, and just trying to survive is tough enough.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 2, 2020
Who to trust and who not to trust?
Is she the enemy or not after all she is now living in his home? That is the question Marcus must answer their relationship starts with a marriage of convenience and the more he watches Annabelle the less he knows but there is no trust. There is an edginess to this tale that is unusual and engaging it kept me glued to my seat while reading. All was done in the name of revenge yet the villains were short-sighted. What happens in the end well you need to read it to find out but it was an excellently done. High praise for the author and I do recommend this tale. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Is she the enemy or not after all she is now living in his home? That is the question Marcus must answer their relationship starts with a marriage of convenience and the more he watches Annabelle the less he knows but there is no trust. There is an edginess to this tale that is unusual and engaging it kept me glued to my seat while reading. All was done in the name of revenge yet the villains were short-sighted. What happens in the end well you need to read it to find out but it was an excellently done. High praise for the author and I do recommend this tale. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 25, 2020
All is not as it seems and everyone must be careful whom they trust in this tale of romance and intrigue. Ms. Ashwood entwines the clues to who is really evil so skillfully you don’t see it coming until she is ready to reveal all. When the perpetrators are revealed, the reader is taken by surprise just as Marcus and Annabelle are as they finally make the connections. A superbly written tale that will keep you guessing until the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2020
I loved this story!! It has suspense, mystery, and romance. What a great combination. I loved Marcus and Annabelle. The secondary characters were great also. The author keeps you guessing at who is pulling the strings to kill Marcus. This is what I would call a clean story (no sex) but there is kissing. If you love Regency mystery romance, I highly recommend this book. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2026
Maybe I missed something...
I liked this book, but something is missing: the romantic, falling in love part! On one page Annabelle and Marcus are resentful and mistrusting of one another. In the blink of an eye, they become a devoted loving couple who can't bear to be apart! I must have missed the witty banter, the sly glances, and the slow burn moments. No, wait - they weren't there!!! Too much keep-the-reader-and-the-wife-in-the-dark-sleuthing and not enough romance for me!!!
I liked this book, but something is missing: the romantic, falling in love part! On one page Annabelle and Marcus are resentful and mistrusting of one another. In the blink of an eye, they become a devoted loving couple who can't bear to be apart! I must have missed the witty banter, the sly glances, and the slow burn moments. No, wait - they weren't there!!! Too much keep-the-reader-and-the-wife-in-the-dark-sleuthing and not enough romance for me!!!
March 24, 2026
5/5 stars!
I swear I always find the best historical romance books for 50p in a charity shop not knowing the author or book. This was so good!! So much drama and twists and turns at every corner I love regency romance that includes a bit more of a dark edge. Absolutely loved the chemistry between the two main characters! I honestly couldn’t even put this book down it had every single trope I love in one book. I definitely will be reading more books by this author and this series everything was a 10/10!!
I swear I always find the best historical romance books for 50p in a charity shop not knowing the author or book. This was so good!! So much drama and twists and turns at every corner I love regency romance that includes a bit more of a dark edge. Absolutely loved the chemistry between the two main characters! I honestly couldn’t even put this book down it had every single trope I love in one book. I definitely will be reading more books by this author and this series everything was a 10/10!!
May 26, 2020
A Cold Earl’s Bride is a great read. A mystery and romance blended well together for an intriguing read. The coincidences lead too mysterious plans that are not fully revealed to the end. I have to admit the villain was a total surprise to me. How Marcus and Annabelle could finally have a HEA is well written and believable. If you like a historic romantic mystery, this is recommended.
I received this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2020
Beware your friends!
Entrusting book, when the Earls betrothed is murdered and sent to him in her own carriage, all he can think is revenge! As he set out to find the culprit he is caught in a compromising situation and marries Annabelle( a Duke’s daughter), he thinks she may be part of the plot, but she is smart and begins to figure things out. Very interesting book, you should read for the twists and turns!
Entrusting book, when the Earls betrothed is murdered and sent to him in her own carriage, all he can think is revenge! As he set out to find the culprit he is caught in a compromising situation and marries Annabelle( a Duke’s daughter), he thinks she may be part of the plot, but she is smart and begins to figure things out. Very interesting book, you should read for the twists and turns!
June 2, 2020
I enjoyed the way the author took a cold marriage full of suspicion that the husband as a spy has for his innocent wife and turns it around. The mystery and suspense kept you on the edge of your seat and I did not see the twist coming. Marian Hussey is a wonderful narrator who I have enjoyed listening to. I received a complimentary copy and this review is voluntary.
June 2, 2020
This was a wonderful regency romance novel filled with mystery and intrigue. I’m happy to say that the circumstances threw me for enough loops that I was blinded as to the eventual outcome. It was a wonderful progression in the cold marriage and the overall storyline.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2020
DNF.
IT COULD HAVE BEEN SO MUCH BETTER IF :
1. THE HERO could stop judging and thinking that the woman he married is in cohort with his enemy.
2. Better INTERACTIONS between the MCs that don't border on boring hostility.
3. THE HERO is cold. Cold that his character became bland.
4. THE HEROINE is the only bright spot in the book. Otherwise, the HERO and the PLOT leaves little to be desired.
IT COULD HAVE BEEN SO MUCH BETTER IF :
1. THE HERO could stop judging and thinking that the woman he married is in cohort with his enemy.
2. Better INTERACTIONS between the MCs that don't border on boring hostility.
3. THE HERO is cold. Cold that his character became bland.
4. THE HEROINE is the only bright spot in the book. Otherwise, the HERO and the PLOT leaves little to be desired.
July 5, 2020
Although Marcus starts out cold to his bride, he is soon thawing not only to her beauty, but her inner beauty as well. The plot is really thick and deep in this story. In the end, he confides in his bride about the plot to ruin him completely. She tries to help him find out who they are in her own intelligent way. Although this is a short novel, the story has a deep plot and an exciting climax.
June 17, 2024
1.5 stars
It was hard to root for the characters since I felt no emotional connection to them. As for the plot, there was a lot of telling and not much showing, and what telling there was felt like bare bones in most cases. Certainly not enough to fully appreciate and understand the mystery portion of the story.
Heat index: none - just kisses
Profanity meter - none
It was hard to root for the characters since I felt no emotional connection to them. As for the plot, there was a lot of telling and not much showing, and what telling there was felt like bare bones in most cases. Certainly not enough to fully appreciate and understand the mystery portion of the story.
Heat index: none - just kisses
Profanity meter - none
June 2, 2020
Annabelle and Marcus end up in the marriage of convenience which neither one wanted. She knows of his reputation with the ladies and he thinks she is a spy. Enjoyed reading this suspense filled romance that will keep you guessing as to what is going on and who is responsible.
June 2, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book! It has a lot of mystery in it that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It also has romance, so really it is a wonderful book for romance and mystery readers. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery and romance!
June 4, 2020
This is my first book by Audrey Ashwood but I’m already looking forward to the next one, Felicity’s story. The characters are strong, the plot has many twists and turns and Annabelle is unusual for the time. I totally enjoyed this book.
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