What do you think?
Rate this book
House of Hale #1
The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden
Sophy is covered in mud by a distracted curricle driver. Then he hides his real name from her. And that's only the beginning of their problems.
When rain-soaked Sophy Hawthorne is splashed with mud in a country lane by a handsome stranger driving much too fast, she's affronted but attracted at the same time. The same goes for him. But to win her hand he has to employ not altogether straight-forward stratagems. And if the beginning is inauspicious, a secret revealed on their wedding day is worse.
This is a classic, clean Regency story of lovers caught in a twenty-year old mystery that for the sake of the family name, they must untangle.
The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden is the first book in the House of Hale Trilogy, introducing characters you will love to follow as they set out on their rocky path together.
When rain-soaked Sophy Hawthorne is splashed with mud in a country lane by a handsome stranger driving much too fast, she's affronted but attracted at the same time. The same goes for him. But to win her hand he has to employ not altogether straight-forward stratagems. And if the beginning is inauspicious, a secret revealed on their wedding day is worse.
This is a classic, clean Regency story of lovers caught in a twenty-year old mystery that for the sake of the family name, they must untangle.
The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden is the first book in the House of Hale Trilogy, introducing characters you will love to follow as they set out on their rocky path together.
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2020
About the author
G.L. Robinson
34 books130 followersMy Regency novel The Earl and the Mud Covered Maiden is now free on multiple platforms:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08... (Amazon)
https://books2read.com/u/49vd2w (multiple platforms: Apple, Barnes & Noble, etc)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
GL Robinson is the godchild of Georgette Heyer. She writes Regency Romances in a very proper English style with a good dash of humor. As the product of a convent boarding school in the south of England in the 1950's and early 60's, she has a very proper English style herself, which you will be able to tell if you listen to the recordings of the first chapters of her novels on her website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com, where you can also sign up for a free short story.
She met her American husband in Brussels where she was working at the time the UK joined the European Union (or Common Market, as it was then called). After retiring from a career as a French professor in upstate New York, she happily swapped Existentialism for Romance and since 2018 has written 11 Regency novels. They all feature feisty heroines against a real historical background. She has also begun a contemporary crime trilogy featuring hunky ex-special forces Miles O'Malley. She's in love with him, but don't tell her husband!
Her Regency novels can all be found on:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WF2GV7S
and all her books on her Amazon page:
https://www.amazon.com/GL-Robinson/e/B08...
FOR A FREE SHORT STORY, or to listen to the first chapters of her novels, go to the website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com
Facebook: GL Robinson Author
Twitter: @gl_robinson
Instagram:@glrobinsonauthor
Tiktok @glrobinson1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08... (Amazon)
https://books2read.com/u/49vd2w (multiple platforms: Apple, Barnes & Noble, etc)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
GL Robinson is the godchild of Georgette Heyer. She writes Regency Romances in a very proper English style with a good dash of humor. As the product of a convent boarding school in the south of England in the 1950's and early 60's, she has a very proper English style herself, which you will be able to tell if you listen to the recordings of the first chapters of her novels on her website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com, where you can also sign up for a free short story.
She met her American husband in Brussels where she was working at the time the UK joined the European Union (or Common Market, as it was then called). After retiring from a career as a French professor in upstate New York, she happily swapped Existentialism for Romance and since 2018 has written 11 Regency novels. They all feature feisty heroines against a real historical background. She has also begun a contemporary crime trilogy featuring hunky ex-special forces Miles O'Malley. She's in love with him, but don't tell her husband!
Her Regency novels can all be found on:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WF2GV7S
and all her books on her Amazon page:
https://www.amazon.com/GL-Robinson/e/B08...
FOR A FREE SHORT STORY, or to listen to the first chapters of her novels, go to the website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com
Facebook: GL Robinson Author
Twitter: @gl_robinson
Instagram:@glrobinsonauthor
Tiktok @glrobinson1
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
January 18, 2021
Very Shady Hero at first
A young lady is splashed by mud from a Dukes vehicle and it leads to marriage. But at first it bothered me about why he faked an injury to get into her good graces. What was his real motive? And if I had to hear about one more ex mistress or his past sex life I would have screamed. We get it, he was a rake. And then he asks for her hand in marriage. Not because he compromised her because he loved her. I was a little shocked. I expected something far more nefarious. The rest of the book is him setting up the marriage and the ceremony. But then, gasp, there is a twist regarding her birth and maybe they aren't really married? It was a good story. I enjoyed it. And I am going to read the rest too. There are no intimate scenes either. I don't mind that as I am in my dotage but just FYI!
A young lady is splashed by mud from a Dukes vehicle and it leads to marriage. But at first it bothered me about why he faked an injury to get into her good graces. What was his real motive? And if I had to hear about one more ex mistress or his past sex life I would have screamed. We get it, he was a rake. And then he asks for her hand in marriage. Not because he compromised her because he loved her. I was a little shocked. I expected something far more nefarious. The rest of the book is him setting up the marriage and the ceremony. But then, gasp, there is a twist regarding her birth and maybe they aren't really married? It was a good story. I enjoyed it. And I am going to read the rest too. There are no intimate scenes either. I don't mind that as I am in my dotage but just FYI!
November 16, 2020
A regency romance that I thought was written very well. Full of characters that I liked and it flowed well. This was a clean romance and I liked it a lot. The author has a lot of talent.
The only problem I had was the “insta-love”. That didn’t feel believable. And there was barely any interaction between the love interests. I wanted more about their relationship. I wanted them to do more with each other.
I’m getting ready to start book 2, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
Thank you BookSirens for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
The only problem I had was the “insta-love”. That didn’t feel believable. And there was barely any interaction between the love interests. I wanted more about their relationship. I wanted them to do more with each other.
I’m getting ready to start book 2, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
Thank you BookSirens for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
September 18, 2020
This Regency had some mystery. Also kisses only and
once wed, closed-door intimacy.
Lysander (an earl) carelessly splashed mud & water
from his conveyance on Sophy, a country squire's
daughter. He didn't see her in the rain. He felt anger
toward a widow who gave him a mixed message but
ultimately rejected his sexy invite, during his rural
visit. He insisted on taking Sophy home and noted her
beauty, threadbare cloak and run-down home. Her Da
favored over-imbibing & gambling. The home offered
limited food and furniture, most rooms had insufficient
heat.
Ly feigned an ankle injury & Sophy's sire invited him
to stay over. Sophy + her 2 servants, more like family,
scrambled to provide a bed and meals.
Once Sophy deducted Ly faked the ankle injury & was
an earl, they had no more secrets between them. Ly held
back from kissing her, b/c of his emotions and lust for her.
She stood up to him verbally as few did. She came across
as direct, not witchy. She managed w/ ill-fitting and badly
out of style clothing.
I enjoyed these folks, especially loyal housekeeper and her
mentally slow son, the Peters. Bk #2 (avail. in future) will
explore the married life of the MCs, per the author's note.
once wed, closed-door intimacy.
Lysander (an earl) carelessly splashed mud & water
from his conveyance on Sophy, a country squire's
daughter. He didn't see her in the rain. He felt anger
toward a widow who gave him a mixed message but
ultimately rejected his sexy invite, during his rural
visit. He insisted on taking Sophy home and noted her
beauty, threadbare cloak and run-down home. Her Da
favored over-imbibing & gambling. The home offered
limited food and furniture, most rooms had insufficient
heat.
Ly feigned an ankle injury & Sophy's sire invited him
to stay over. Sophy + her 2 servants, more like family,
scrambled to provide a bed and meals.
Once Sophy deducted Ly faked the ankle injury & was
an earl, they had no more secrets between them. Ly held
back from kissing her, b/c of his emotions and lust for her.
She stood up to him verbally as few did. She came across
as direct, not witchy. She managed w/ ill-fitting and badly
out of style clothing.
I enjoyed these folks, especially loyal housekeeper and her
mentally slow son, the Peters. Bk #2 (avail. in future) will
explore the married life of the MCs, per the author's note.
November 5, 2020
A very unrealistic but cute novella. It was a nice, easy read after so many serious books. I enjoyed it.
August 22, 2020
The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden
A House of Hale Story: Book One
GL Robinson
https://www.facebook.com/startedwriti...
Release date 08/30/2020
Blurb :
Sophy is covered in mud by a distracted curricle driver. Then he hides his real name from her. And that's only the beginning of their problems.
When rain-soaked Sophy Hawthorne is splashed with mud in a country lane by a handsome stranger driving much too fast, she's affronted but attracted at the same time. The same goes for him. But to win her hand he has to employ not altogether straight-forward stratagems. And if the beginning is inauspicious, a secret revealed on their wedding day is worse.
This is a classic, clean Regency story of lovers caught in a twenty-year old mystery that for the sake of the family name, they must untangle.
The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden is the first book in the House of Hale Trilogy, introducing characters you will love to follow as they set out on their rocky path together.
My review :
It was first the book’s title that caught my eyes, then the secret to be revealed.
The first part before the wedding was a concentration of cleverness and wittiness. I had a smile on my face all along my reading.
Then there is a change of atmosphere in the second part as they have to solve the mystery behind the conundrum brought to light.
For a clean romance, it was one with a sensual edge as the hero is no stuffy lord but one to enjoy a romp in the sheets, well many as he is a man driven by hedonistic pursuits until he has meet the one woman for him. I even expected to see one of his paramours cause problem but the author is more to demonstrate how this man, very certain of who he is, goes after what and whom he wants but if turned down, there is no coming back.
Sophy is the classical poor and ill used Cinderella, yet she has some backbones and despite her naivety she stands for herself if she has.
Kind and caring, she also has a lot of tears in her. And the events following her wedding will entice her to shed them.
Mrs Robinson paints a pleasant tale on the classic side about a love at first sight romance taking no prisoners as it is immediately them against every dragons. And while I understand the whys behind the author’s choices, I would have liked a courtship less hasty, to see them together a bit more than their two encounters prior marriage.
The second part was very different, I missed the quips and barbs from the beginning but it was no more about wooing but about their future together.
4.25 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
A House of Hale Story: Book One
GL Robinson
https://www.facebook.com/startedwriti...
Release date 08/30/2020
Blurb :
Sophy is covered in mud by a distracted curricle driver. Then he hides his real name from her. And that's only the beginning of their problems.
When rain-soaked Sophy Hawthorne is splashed with mud in a country lane by a handsome stranger driving much too fast, she's affronted but attracted at the same time. The same goes for him. But to win her hand he has to employ not altogether straight-forward stratagems. And if the beginning is inauspicious, a secret revealed on their wedding day is worse.
This is a classic, clean Regency story of lovers caught in a twenty-year old mystery that for the sake of the family name, they must untangle.
The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden is the first book in the House of Hale Trilogy, introducing characters you will love to follow as they set out on their rocky path together.
My review :
It was first the book’s title that caught my eyes, then the secret to be revealed.
The first part before the wedding was a concentration of cleverness and wittiness. I had a smile on my face all along my reading.
Then there is a change of atmosphere in the second part as they have to solve the mystery behind the conundrum brought to light.
For a clean romance, it was one with a sensual edge as the hero is no stuffy lord but one to enjoy a romp in the sheets, well many as he is a man driven by hedonistic pursuits until he has meet the one woman for him. I even expected to see one of his paramours cause problem but the author is more to demonstrate how this man, very certain of who he is, goes after what and whom he wants but if turned down, there is no coming back.
Sophy is the classical poor and ill used Cinderella, yet she has some backbones and despite her naivety she stands for herself if she has.
Kind and caring, she also has a lot of tears in her. And the events following her wedding will entice her to shed them.
Mrs Robinson paints a pleasant tale on the classic side about a love at first sight romance taking no prisoners as it is immediately them against every dragons. And while I understand the whys behind the author’s choices, I would have liked a courtship less hasty, to see them together a bit more than their two encounters prior marriage.
The second part was very different, I missed the quips and barbs from the beginning but it was no more about wooing but about their future together.
4.25 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
June 10, 2022
too trite
So most of GL Robinson’s books so far have been entertaining and with delightfully interesting but setting appropriate characters. This book however was just confusing. The courtship was so incredibly rapid as to be unbelievable I was sure there was to be something nefarious in the Earls rush… the conflict was also ridiculous, even with no knowledge of the specifics of English law I was pretty sure that the consummation or lack there of was not going to help the situation. I might have liked all the characters but we didn’t really get to know them, the resolution was too easy and the waited for consummation at once too detailed for those who want a “clean” story, but not well written enough for those who may like some intimate descriptions. I will skip the rest of this series; maybe it is an early offering from this author as I have rather enjoyed some of the others.
So most of GL Robinson’s books so far have been entertaining and with delightfully interesting but setting appropriate characters. This book however was just confusing. The courtship was so incredibly rapid as to be unbelievable I was sure there was to be something nefarious in the Earls rush… the conflict was also ridiculous, even with no knowledge of the specifics of English law I was pretty sure that the consummation or lack there of was not going to help the situation. I might have liked all the characters but we didn’t really get to know them, the resolution was too easy and the waited for consummation at once too detailed for those who want a “clean” story, but not well written enough for those who may like some intimate descriptions. I will skip the rest of this series; maybe it is an early offering from this author as I have rather enjoyed some of the others.
August 16, 2021
Cute, but....
Lysander Barrington, Lord Hale, splashes mud all over Sophy Hawthorne as she's walking in a rainstorm in her village, and, being a gentleman of good breeding, he insists on giving her a ride home. Upon arrival at her home, he meets her drunken lout of a father, sees that she's living in squalor, but still decides on the spur of the moment that he wants to marry Sophy.
At the beginning of the story, we're given a rather clinical summary of salient points regarding the Earl and Sophy. It's as if, rather than devoting time to character development, we're given a run down about characters that are fairly standard fare in these stories. The Earl is, of course, very handsome, broad shouldered, and fabulously wealthy. Sophy is, of course, beautiful but poor, and holding together a household that would utterly fall apart if not for her selfless efforts. Much is made of Sophy's figure, in particular her large breasts. In fact, her large breasts are the entire reason that this wealthy Earl decides to abandon all reason and marry her.
This stupid reason for falling in love is a huge disappointment, particularly in light of the fact that the Earl is a very likeable character. We find out, in time, that he's kind and conscientious, but there is absolutely no foundation for romantic chemistry between the two. In fact, Sophy is revealed to be kind of helpless and flighty, in spite of her good intentions. I definitely was not feeling any loving connection, any reason for esteem, between them. It left me flat.
Then there's the ludicrous impediment to the consummation of their marriage, and I was just shaking my head and waiting for the book to end. The writing is proficient enough, and the editing is well done. However, the story is juvenile and hard to swallow. It didn't grab me. I don't think I'll read the others in this series.
Lysander Barrington, Lord Hale, splashes mud all over Sophy Hawthorne as she's walking in a rainstorm in her village, and, being a gentleman of good breeding, he insists on giving her a ride home. Upon arrival at her home, he meets her drunken lout of a father, sees that she's living in squalor, but still decides on the spur of the moment that he wants to marry Sophy.
At the beginning of the story, we're given a rather clinical summary of salient points regarding the Earl and Sophy. It's as if, rather than devoting time to character development, we're given a run down about characters that are fairly standard fare in these stories. The Earl is, of course, very handsome, broad shouldered, and fabulously wealthy. Sophy is, of course, beautiful but poor, and holding together a household that would utterly fall apart if not for her selfless efforts. Much is made of Sophy's figure, in particular her large breasts. In fact, her large breasts are the entire reason that this wealthy Earl decides to abandon all reason and marry her.
This stupid reason for falling in love is a huge disappointment, particularly in light of the fact that the Earl is a very likeable character. We find out, in time, that he's kind and conscientious, but there is absolutely no foundation for romantic chemistry between the two. In fact, Sophy is revealed to be kind of helpless and flighty, in spite of her good intentions. I definitely was not feeling any loving connection, any reason for esteem, between them. It left me flat.
Then there's the ludicrous impediment to the consummation of their marriage, and I was just shaking my head and waiting for the book to end. The writing is proficient enough, and the editing is well done. However, the story is juvenile and hard to swallow. It didn't grab me. I don't think I'll read the others in this series.
December 26, 2020
Inaccurate and flawed
Plot makes no sense. As she was born in wedlock she had no need to change her name at the end. Legally she is the daughter of the man married to her mother when she was born. There could never have been a reason for the Earl to give up his earldom and had their marriage turned out to not be valid they could simply have remarried using the correct names, which could easily be done before any children were born and so their wedding night had no reason to be postponed. And why didn't she have a dresser/ladies maid? It would have been unheard of not to have one. Strange all round.
Plot makes no sense. As she was born in wedlock she had no need to change her name at the end. Legally she is the daughter of the man married to her mother when she was born. There could never have been a reason for the Earl to give up his earldom and had their marriage turned out to not be valid they could simply have remarried using the correct names, which could easily be done before any children were born and so their wedding night had no reason to be postponed. And why didn't she have a dresser/ladies maid? It would have been unheard of not to have one. Strange all round.
November 5, 2020
I could not get over how the central conceit of this book did not make sense. Even if Sophy’s biological father were not the father whose name she had, she would not have been illegitimate. She was born within the wedlock between her mother and either her biological or adoptive father. By law that would not have been an illegitimate birth. And there would have been no reason to amend her birth name or her marriage license as a result. Consequently it was hard to get past this since much of the plot depended on it.
August 31, 2020
Absolutely Delightful!
This story was an absolute delight to read. It has characters who are easy to relate to, a story which I found gripping, interesting and entertaining, a mystery to be solved and a wonderful love story to enjoy and swoon over.
The Earl, Lysander or Sandy, comes across as such a generous, fair, ethical and caring character that you can't help but love him.
Sophy is the young lady around whose birth there is a mystery. She is sweet, clever, artistic and has a kind and good nature.
It was very refreshing to read a story that began almost at the marriage stage for a change, rather than end there.
This book has a lot going for it and I feel it is definitely to be recommended!
I look forward to the next in is series.
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of the ebook and my voluntary review is unbiased.
This story was an absolute delight to read. It has characters who are easy to relate to, a story which I found gripping, interesting and entertaining, a mystery to be solved and a wonderful love story to enjoy and swoon over.
The Earl, Lysander or Sandy, comes across as such a generous, fair, ethical and caring character that you can't help but love him.
Sophy is the young lady around whose birth there is a mystery. She is sweet, clever, artistic and has a kind and good nature.
It was very refreshing to read a story that began almost at the marriage stage for a change, rather than end there.
This book has a lot going for it and I feel it is definitely to be recommended!
I look forward to the next in is series.
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of the ebook and my voluntary review is unbiased.
August 21, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this regency romance. The characters were strong willed but not in a bad way and they just made you want the very best for them. Her father, well.....he needs a good kick up the pants.
Well this was a regency romance with a difference. What possible secret could be revealed at their wedding that leaves her so shocked? This one took me by surprise as well.
I got to the end and even with an epilogue I wanted more, so I’m hoping the next book will do just that. This is a new to me author so I look forward to more of her books
I received an advance review copy from book sirens and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Well this was a regency romance with a difference. What possible secret could be revealed at their wedding that leaves her so shocked? This one took me by surprise as well.
I got to the end and even with an epilogue I wanted more, so I’m hoping the next book will do just that. This is a new to me author so I look forward to more of her books
I received an advance review copy from book sirens and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
May 22, 2023
A love-at-first-sight Cinderella story with lots of interesting historical detail. The quickly-realized relationship could have seemed superficial if not for the lovely dialog and tenderness between the couple, which made it all the more romantic. There were some moments that seemed a bit superfluous and a lot of descriptive scenes that interrupted the flow of the story but I found them delightful. Throughout were details borrowed from Heyer or Austen that made me smile. A fun read.
September 19, 2020
This was a lovely regency novel with a good plot even outside of the romance bit. I think Robinson did a great job writing the story and included some interesting parts that really added to the novel, including references to the fashion of the time and the poverty that affected many members of the lower and middle classes. All together, this was a very enjoyable read with a wholesome and healthy romance. I did think that the romance in the book occurred a little too quickly for my tastes, but overall it was done really well. It was a fairly quick read for me, but it contained a great plot with hints of mystery and not just romance. I would recommend for lovers of Jane Austen and regency fans, as this book was really written well.
Thank you to the publisher and author for sending me a free ARC. This has not influenced my review in any way and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to the publisher and author for sending me a free ARC. This has not influenced my review in any way and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 12, 2022
Plot very hard to believe
The first few chapters reminded me of those silly barbara Cartland stories. Totally improbable. A fantasy. Fell in love with her cleavage??? Had just met her and offered marriage ?? The rest was also not very interesting. Will read the next book just to see how it goes. If it similar I will not finish.
The first few chapters reminded me of those silly barbara Cartland stories. Totally improbable. A fantasy. Fell in love with her cleavage??? Had just met her and offered marriage ?? The rest was also not very interesting. Will read the next book just to see how it goes. If it similar I will not finish.
June 22, 2024
This book was super shallow. There was almost no plot to it, the romance was settled almost immediately and it seemed like there was no real reason to finish the book. I did finish it anyway, but I was left feeling that it was rather worthless. This is strange because I have really enjoyed the authors other books.
August 14, 2024
I listened to the Kindle- assisted-reader version of this title on my Alexa device. Not just because the Kindle version was free, and there wasn’t an audiobook version of it, but also because I wanted to test the palatability of using this medium. It was fantastic! Far, far better than the audiobooks by this author, as she reads them herself - she has an awful voice for narration: old and raspy with no talent for performance. She didn’t do her written talent ANY FAVOURS! I am pleasantly surprised by the rendition by Alexa, noticeably superior to the audiobooks I had listened to of hers. (The Earl and the Bluestocking. A Marriage is Arranged - don’t purchase these as audiobooks, listen to the previews first).
As for this story, as per her other Regency novels, this was heavy on character and light on Regency Haute Ton Assemblies and Balls. This is a lovely Regency cosy (not cozy as I associate that genre as murder/mystery). A whirlwind romance, or rather, a whirlwind betrothal and wedding. I was intrigued by the detail of the arrangements, which I never considered previously, as other Regency novels just state that they were done.
I think that I will enjoy these little tales and those of us who grew up on Georgette Heyer will enjoy them (although they are nothing like Heyer’s).
As for this story, as per her other Regency novels, this was heavy on character and light on Regency Haute Ton Assemblies and Balls. This is a lovely Regency cosy (not cozy as I associate that genre as murder/mystery). A whirlwind romance, or rather, a whirlwind betrothal and wedding. I was intrigued by the detail of the arrangements, which I never considered previously, as other Regency novels just state that they were done.
I think that I will enjoy these little tales and those of us who grew up on Georgette Heyer will enjoy them (although they are nothing like Heyer’s).
November 15, 2020
The mud didn't hide any of her beauty.
I liked so many aspects of this book by GL Robinson, but I also think it could have been better. Which is why I'm just going to list my likes and dislikes.
I liked –
the heroine's sweet but feisty nature
the hero's honorable nature, even if he was a bit overbearing
the servants and other supporting characters
the Regency setting and historical references
the overall story with its unexpected twists and turns
the bit of humor
the sweet and happy ending
I didn't like –
the overabundance of detailed descriptions (clothes, food, etc.)
the narrative style of writing is not my favorite
Overall, The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden is a good standalone book that's perfect for a rainy day by the fire.
Content 411: This is a mostly clean read, but there are 40+ mild swear words and a few scenes of implied attraction and intimacy. This book is definitely suitable for most readers over the age of 14.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
I liked so many aspects of this book by GL Robinson, but I also think it could have been better. Which is why I'm just going to list my likes and dislikes.
I liked –
the heroine's sweet but feisty nature
the hero's honorable nature, even if he was a bit overbearing
the servants and other supporting characters
the Regency setting and historical references
the overall story with its unexpected twists and turns
the bit of humor
the sweet and happy ending
I didn't like –
the overabundance of detailed descriptions (clothes, food, etc.)
the narrative style of writing is not my favorite
Overall, The Earl and the Mud-Covered Maiden is a good standalone book that's perfect for a rainy day by the fire.
Content 411: This is a mostly clean read, but there are 40+ mild swear words and a few scenes of implied attraction and intimacy. This book is definitely suitable for most readers over the age of 14.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
December 14, 2020
This was a charming story. GL Robinson does her research and provided a very thorough description of the architecture of the times. The characters were in a sort of Cinderella story. The Earl becomes enchanted with the "poor" girl at first sight, and she agrees to marry him after he makes a deal to bail out her scoundrel father. The mystery comes in later and how this works out becomes the story. There is very little conflict and it all seems too easy. However, this is the first of at least two books so perhaps we have to wait for the next book. There is a lot of sexual tension, but nothing really happens on the page. Suitable for young readers.
I prefer a more complex story, more internal and external struggle for the characters. As an example of its kind, this was very well written and enjoyable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I prefer a more complex story, more internal and external struggle for the characters. As an example of its kind, this was very well written and enjoyable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 4, 2020
Lysander Barrington, Earl and man about town, falls in love with impoverished Sophie at first sight despite her being wet, muddy and bedraggled. Sophie herself is as much suspicious, as she is attracted, to this stranger who forces his way into her home and then proceeds to make it very difficult for her to refuse his marriage proposal. Immediately on her acceptance he returns to London and she only sees him once before the wedding, but by this time she is aware of her feelings and joyfully enters into matrimony. However during the wedding feast a secret is revealed that may jeopardise their future together. This is a little different to the normal Regency novel, the story held my attention and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 22, 2020
The book’s title caught my eye and I wanted to find out how the maiden ended up covered in mud. I was also intrigued by the cover and the fact that it looked like a watercolor painting. The language used throughout the book and the people were interesting, funny, and realistic. The author was very descriptive in setting the scene so that you felt that you were actually in each scene with the characters. I would have liked a courtship that was longer, to see them together and getting to know one another before they got married. I am looking forward to reading what comes next in this series.
I really appreciated that this book had no mistakes in the editing or proofreading.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Book Sirens.
I really appreciated that this book had no mistakes in the editing or proofreading.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Book Sirens.
August 6, 2022
nice basic novel
I have to say this was not a particular exciting book or plot, but it was good none the less.
I would say the author needs to ditch the breast groping. Just keep it to a nice basic kiss. If set up correctly a well placed kiss can be much more tantalizing than any groping is.
Georgette Heyerdahl never needed anything more than a simple kiss for the romance to be there.
It seems all the novels from this author has a pattern of kiss, tongue in the mouth then breast groping. It gets old. Just make a well placed unexpected kiss and it creates a much more romantic situation.
It was worth reading though. Just need a little less predictableness in the writing of the romance part. But I do very much appreciate that she doesn’t get any more explicit.
I have to say this was not a particular exciting book or plot, but it was good none the less.
I would say the author needs to ditch the breast groping. Just keep it to a nice basic kiss. If set up correctly a well placed kiss can be much more tantalizing than any groping is.
Georgette Heyerdahl never needed anything more than a simple kiss for the romance to be there.
It seems all the novels from this author has a pattern of kiss, tongue in the mouth then breast groping. It gets old. Just make a well placed unexpected kiss and it creates a much more romantic situation.
It was worth reading though. Just need a little less predictableness in the writing of the romance part. But I do very much appreciate that she doesn’t get any more explicit.
October 8, 2026
I truly loved this story. Two people who meet under the most unusual circumstances are caught totally off guard, but the ensuing time together changes them both immensely. I think it can be called love at first sight. The complication is that they come from totally different stations in society. He is royalty. She is a lowy country girl. It doesn't take long for them to get their lives together and get to the point of sharing their feelings toward each other. There are difficulties and complications to be overcome as they move forward, and this constitutes much of the story. Because it doesn't really take very long to read the book, I won't tell any more and possibly spoil the drama and suspense. I'm sure you will enjoy it!
October 9, 2020
Liked the plot, heroine and hero except it was closed door and it definitely detracted from the story. The h is feisty with good reason, she's half starved when the H meets her. He falls for her straight away, she's not impressed but things progress very quickly. There was such a good opportunity for some OW drama but it became a non event, so why bother at all? The H is very proper, but he wasn't a prig, and I liked how his character. Sweet ending but I won't buy this author again, too heavy on the Telling, and way too low on emotional impact. I disliked being TOLD she liked her delayed wedding night.
December 7, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another thoroughly enjoyable read by GL Robinson. This is my second book I've read by this author. They are quick and easy to read and very descriptive. I love the strong, independent female leads in her books. Sophy was an absolute pleasure to get to know throughout the book. I love how she refused the first proposal of marriage she received, even though this would have been of great benefit to her and in a time when women didn't have much of a social standing, this was a very brave thing to do. The story flowed beautifully and is was a pleasure to read. I'll look forward to reading the follow up.
Another thoroughly enjoyable read by GL Robinson. This is my second book I've read by this author. They are quick and easy to read and very descriptive. I love the strong, independent female leads in her books. Sophy was an absolute pleasure to get to know throughout the book. I love how she refused the first proposal of marriage she received, even though this would have been of great benefit to her and in a time when women didn't have much of a social standing, this was a very brave thing to do. The story flowed beautifully and is was a pleasure to read. I'll look forward to reading the follow up.
July 20, 2025
Nothing in this book appealed to me. I'm not an insta love person by nature. But this one was totally unbelievable. The very handsome, very rich, very nice earl meets a mud covered girl in the pouring rain and brings her home to her drunken sot of a father in her falling down decrepit poverty stricken
home and within less then 24 he proposes marraige. She's not even nice to him. She's insulted he proposed to her. She's dumb as rocks.
Unfortunately the rest of the book is just as stupid. Big disappointment. I usually like this Author's work but this was a total miss for me. Not touching the rest of the series.
home and within less then 24 he proposes marraige. She's not even nice to him. She's insulted he proposed to her. She's dumb as rocks.
Unfortunately the rest of the book is just as stupid. Big disappointment. I usually like this Author's work but this was a total miss for me. Not touching the rest of the series.
July 27, 2025
A short read with an interesting story and characters but I struggled with some aspects of this book. I have read several books by this author, but this is my least favorite. I will still read the sequel and hope .
August 27, 2020
Well, what a charming book! If you like a clean, romantic ,switch off read, you will love this. It’s Regency escapism with likeable characters and beneath the gloss, sufficient accurate description to give it backbone. I happily shopped with Sophy, visualised her wardrobe, walked through the tour of Hale Court with her and Lysander, sat by the fire in her rooms.
Parts of the plot are stylised but no more than in many other books and to be honest, I happily overlooked this because I liked Sophy and Lysander. What more can you ask of a hero and heroine? If they make you want them to succeed then the author has done a good job.
Not the average book title and above an average read.
I received an advance review copy for free, count myself lucky and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Parts of the plot are stylised but no more than in many other books and to be honest, I happily overlooked this because I liked Sophy and Lysander. What more can you ask of a hero and heroine? If they make you want them to succeed then the author has done a good job.
Not the average book title and above an average read.
I received an advance review copy for free, count myself lucky and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 15, 2020
Was an emotive book which I enjoyed immensely. Found the characters interesting and the period the book was set in. Enough descriptions were given of locations, clothing and people to allow me to create pictures in my mind. I did think it was a bit of a stretch that they fell in love so quickly, I am a bit cynical don’t believe in love at first sight, but that was only a small part of book. Look forward to seeing what happens in the next book. Don’t think the cover does justice to the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 1, 2020
I don't normally read historical romance but I have to admit between the amazing cover art and the blurb I decided to give it a try. I bypassed this book 3 other times and although it looked interesting, I just don't read historical romance that often. It was written in an intriguing way, with a decent plot that did not follow the expected storyline of this genre. I would gladly read subsequent books by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2020
This was a wonderful read.
Young Sophy is walking home in the rain when a carriage comes by and soaks her with mud and water. It was bad enough to be soaked through, but this...
The gentleman in the carriage stopped and insisted on seeing her home. Upon walking her to the door, he twists his ankle and they both fall into the front hall.
This is the beginning of their tale. It is a quick read but very enjoyable. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy for my honest review.
Young Sophy is walking home in the rain when a carriage comes by and soaks her with mud and water. It was bad enough to be soaked through, but this...
The gentleman in the carriage stopped and insisted on seeing her home. Upon walking her to the door, he twists his ankle and they both fall into the front hall.
This is the beginning of their tale. It is a quick read but very enjoyable. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews