Naughty Earls Need Love Too

That Wicked O'Shea Family #7

by Merry Farmer

Maeve Sperrin considers herself a modern woman, but she’s not ready to abandon the rules of society yet. She is determined to marry well and be a good and loyal wife. Her best friend since childhood, Alice Woodmont, has similar aims but far wickeder ideas about how to achieve them. So when both of them set their sights on Lord Avery O’Shea, Earl of Carnlough, what begins as a friendly rivalry turns into war.

Avery O’Shea has been more interested in enjoying life than settling down to do his duty, but now that his sister is settled into married life, he sees that the time for him to marry and produce an heir has come. His only problem is who to choose. He is amused by the fiery Miss Woodmont, but there is something about Maeve’s beauty and grace that charms him.

But when Avery discovers he has been the wedge that divided two best friends, he realizes there is more to duty than signing his name on an official document. To woo Maeve, he must come up with a way to reconcile the two friends, and in doing so, discover the love of his life.

A love triangle that will have you wishing you could discuss the whole thing with your bestie.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Steam level – very spicy!

Genres: Historical, Historical Romance, Romance

144 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 19, 2021

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maeve Sperrin has adopted many modern views on the role of women, but she still hopes to marry well and raise a family. Alice Woodmont, her best friend and pseudo-sister, has similar goals but far fewer scruples when it comes to how she’ll find a husband. When they both fall for Lord Avery O’Shea, their friendship is severely threatened by the ensuing competition.

Avery has spent quite a lot of time enjoying his wealth and exalted position in society but has decided he’s ready to settle down and start a family of his own. He has every intention of starting that future with Maeve, but he doesn’t want to cause harm to Alice or destroy their friendship. He soon realizes that in wooing Maeve he must also ensure the future of her friend.

I really am not a fan of the love triangle trope. It wasn’t as frustrating here as it could’ve been, but it still left me very much disliking Alice so I’m not sure how I’ll feel about her story. She was incredibly selfish for much of the book, but fortunately, she did redeem herself a bit nearer the end. Maeve and Avery were good together, nothing special, but a fun and light-hearted couple to read about. I especially enjoyed the banter between Avery and his family, including familiar faces from the previous books. Maeve was a tad weak for me as a heroine, but I did like Avery and I enjoyed this story overall.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

If readers are looking for a quick entertaining story, then this is it!

Read full review in the 2022 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maeve Sperrin & Alice Woodmont are the best of friends & have been there for each other through thick & thin especially as Alice hasn’t had an easy time of it lately. However their friendship is put to the test when both of them set their sights on Lord Avery O’Shea, Earl of Carnlough, what begins as a friendly rivalry turns into war. Avery has been more interested in enjoying life than settling down to do his duty, but now that his sister is settled into married life, he sees that the time for him to marry and produce an heir has finally come. He is amused by the fiery Miss Woodmont, but there is something about Maeve’s beauty and grace that charms him but when Avery discovers he has been the wedge that divided two best friends, he realizes there is more to duty than signing his name on an official document. To woo Maeve, he must come up with a way to reconcile the two friends, and in doing so, discover the love of his life.
This is the finale book in the series & it could easily be read as a standalone. A well written, fun, entertaining read which I devoured in a sitting. The characters are well portrayed & have depth. I loved Avery, Maeve & Alice & thoroughly enjoyed how everything was resolved plus more than a hint as to how the unlucky one finds love. There’s humour, lively banter & Avery trying his best to make everything right. An engrossing finale to the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[JudyAnnLovesBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Wicked O’Shea Family is one of my favorite historical romance series. Naughty Earls Need Love Too is book 7 and is a quick and easy, read in one sitting romance.

Maeve and Avery are perfect for each other. Maeve Sperrin is loyal, dedicated and outspoken, traits that Avery finds very attractive. Avery O’Shea is a bit of a rogue but with an adorable side to him. He is taken by Maeve and pursues her. She doesn’t stand a chance!

I enjoyed reading their story and am giving it the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

[Lisa C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable romp with the Wicked O'Sheas. Avery O’Shea has found himself in the middle of two best friends - Maeve Sperrin and Alice Woodmont. But coming to realize that Maeve is the woman for him only seems to make things worse. All the relationships in this story are excellent - Maeve and Alice, Avery and Maeve, and Avery and his male friends and relatives make this story a most enjoyable read. This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. Highly recommend.

[Lori D · Rating 4 out of 5]

The O'Shea's at at it again and this time it is Avery.

Both Avery and he best friend are attracted to the same man. Now who will win him?

As always, an adventure with wonderful characters that brings humor, witty banter
and a story that takes a little bit of a journey to happy ever after!

[Amanda Hupe]

"This historical love story is very short but sweet!"

Check out the rest of my review at InD'tale Magazine:

http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/...

[Winnifred D. · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars. I've enjoyed reading this series--and, typically, anything Merry Farmer writes is a treat. Her irreverent humor is always a draw. The H, Avery, may be my favorite MC in this series so far. He's naughty, irreverent, and caring (I hope he comes back in future books!). He and the h, Maeve, have a fun, sexy chemistry. Unfortunately, much of the story focuses on Maeve's friend, Alice, and her lot in life. Avery and Maeve, are high-spirited "insta-lust" characters whose feelings for each other are never in contention, so instead the plot revolves around Alice's future and marital prospects. And the love triangle involving her, Avery, and Maeve never really works.

As Alice has a two-year-old son born out of wedlock, with the biological father completely out of the picture, she is, admittedly, in a tricky position in late 1800's England. But despite wanting to like her, I felt she was unnecessarily spiteful and petulant toward Maeve, behaving as if her best friend had stolen Avery away from her, when Avery never had any interest in her. The emotional outbursts, and Maeve being made to feel guilty for marrying Avery, dampened my enjoyment of the book. POSSIBLE SPOILER AHEAD: During the wedding scene I did feel sorry for Alice, and wanted to hug Avery for his speech, but just wished more of the focus could have been on him and Maeve all along.

Bottom line: quick read, with the trademark Merry Farmer humor, and ends well, but not my favorite entry in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maeve Sperrin considers herself a modern woman, but she’s not ready to abandon the rules of society yet. She is determined to marry well and be a good and loyal wife. Her best friend since childhood, Alice Woodmont, has similar aims but far wickeder ideas about how to achieve them. So when both of them set their sights on Lord Avery O’Shea, Earl of Carnlough, what begins as a friendly rivalry turns into war.
Avery O’Shea has been more interested in enjoying life than settling down to do his duty, but now that his sister is settled into married life, he sees that the time for him to marry and produce an heir has come. His only problem is who to choose. He is amused by the fiery Miss Woodmont, but there is something about Maeve’s beauty and grace that charms him.
But when Avery discovers he has been the wedge that divided two best friends, he realizes there is more to duty than signing his name on an official document. To woo Maeve, he must come up with a way to reconcile the two friends, and in doing so, discover the love of his life.
A love triangle that will have you wishing you could discuss the whole thing.
Mauve and Alice are the best of friends but when they fall in love with the same man things start to go wrong.
This is an awesome book!
Merry Farmer writes an engrossing book.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready to have some more fun with the O'Shea's! This is the seventh book of the series and there is no shortage of adventure and mischief in this delightful new addition. The story focuses on Avery and the love triangle that develops over him. Avery is definitely drawn to one of the two ladies, but he feels very bad when he finds out the two women who are interested in him were also best friends and when both set their sights on Avery, their friendship was essentially destroyed. Before Avery will pursue the one he is drawn to, he is determined to find a way to bring the two friends back together. As with all of the O'Shea stories this story is filled with humor, fun, and emotion and I wasn't able to put it down. Avery and his lady love were perfect for each other and I enjoyed seeing them together and their interactions.
Ms. Farmer always writes fun and witty tales with characters that really draw you in and this latest book of hers was just wonderful.
Happy to recommend!

I received a complimentary advanced reader's copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though her stories in this series range from happiness to despair, they always contain a hum of humor, camaraderie and loyalty. In this one, Maeve and Alice have been best friends since they were quite young. One night of passion with a rogue left Alice ruined. She decided that marrying Avery was her last chance, as her parents were threatening to either marry her off to a wretched man, or turn her out. The only flaw with her plan was that Maeve was in love with Avery, and he seemed to return her affections. I love Avery’s inner dialogue and the way he seems to come into his own. He actually becomes quite the unexpected hero. Alice proves that desperation can be blinding, and there were moments where I just wanted to shake her. And then there is Maeve, the ever loyal and self-sacrificing friend to the end. Speaking of end, the epilogue is a good tee-up for a new beginning. This is a lively, well-conceived, delightful series and this story provides one more scandal involving the ‘wicked O’Shea’ family! Don’t miss it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story. Here’s why. The friendship between Maeve and Alice is undying sacrifice. But you say, the blurb says a love triangle. Yes, there is one of those but the friendship in the end overrides any rivalries. It is wonderful to see that women can be friends even in times of trouble. No bitchiness (okay, not much), just friendship. Also, I love how Merry takes a seemingly mundane scene of men discussing how to control women’s feelings and turns it into a hilarious conversation that has the women in tears. You can just imagine it happening. That is what I love about Merry’s stories, she is irreverent, funny, and adds great depth of feelings in her stories. One little thing, it is mentioned that Avery is naughty, and he is, but I wanted to see a little bit more naughtiness out of him because I think he is a great character and a great hero. One of my favorite of Merry’s books.

Alice is getting her own story, yay! She totally deserves a HEA.

I received a complimentary copy from the author.

[Amanda Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avery and Maeve were a cute couple in Naughty Earls Need Love Too that wraps up the O'Shea Family books by Merry Farmer.

This book includes a love triangle - all one-sided on Maeve's best friend Alice's part, but she is determined that Avery should be hers to take care of her and her son, Ryan, who was born out of wedlock. It was sad to see the conflict between the two friends, especially since Maeve has done nothing but stick by Alice's side through her scandal. Alice's insinuation that she deserves Avery more than Maeve was nothing but petty and selfish and ridiculous considering that Avery had feelings and a brain, too.

I liked Avery and Maeve together. They were fun, lighthearted and wanted to be together. Their flirtations were fun and sweet. Their chemistry wasn't over the moon for me, it was more that they found the person that fit in with what they each wanted in life.

Merry Farmer writes wonderful, fun stories. Great ending to the series. Looking forward to her next writing ventures.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this terrific book in this series by one of my favorite historical romance authors Merry Farmer. She obviously does a lot of research but then she turns conventions on their head, especially with this series about the wicked O’Shea family. I think she has it right in that what the Victorians said in public and what they did in private were two very different things. The hypocrisy of the various stratums of society are in evidence in this book particularly with the way Alice and the father of her baby are judged but also in how people interact with each other. Ms. Farmer is marvelous at developing plots that go against conventional wisdom about what people were really like in history. The deftness with which she does this while still giving us a cracking great read rather than a sermon is one of her greatest strengths as a writer. I now will be waiting with baited breath to find out how she goes about making “scandalous” single mother Alice “fit for society”.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the end of the previous book in the series there was an introduction to this one. Maeve is a modern woman who wants to marry for love, her best friend Alice has her own reasons for wanting to get married quickly. They both set their sights on Lord Avery O’Shea, Earl of Carnlough but who will succeed in marrying him?
This series has been a joy to read, not too serious but with the tail end of the "old" values of society playing their part. There is definitely some spicyness if that isn't your thing, but it is more of a small part of the story, rather than an excuse to make a dull story more entertaining which is my pet hate. There is also humour and, most importantly for this type of book, romance. I am sad that the series has finished, however the last chapter has a teaser introduction to a new series that I will definitely be reading.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Tina Ullrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maeve Sperrin, last daughter to marry in her family, wants to make sure her best friend is also happy and has a support to fall back on.

Alice Woodmont, as we found out in the last book has a child and either has to marry someone who will take her child or lose him per her parents demand.

Lord Carnlough, Avery O’Shea, loves to be thought of as naughty. These two ladies each want to marry him but for different reasons.

So, come along as we enjoy this bad-guy over the naughty Lord Carnlough and find out who wins. This story will have you laughing, crying, and choosing sides. Visits from prior characters also add their two cents on what happens.

It is men vs women handling different situations and what occurs will keep you enthralled to the end. Great characters, suspense, witty banter, and how far some people will go to get what they want verses what they need.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It seems that not every member of the Aristocracy was happy with what was expected of them.  I would wager it was as modern heirs are expected to move into the res that they are expected to, rather than finding their own passion.

In this regard, I have a very close friend who had studied to become an Engineer solely in order to secure his sibling's right to inherit their family business.  The moment he was able to give his father his degree, he immediately enrolled in Medical School, his true passion.

Alas, he never met a Soul Mate, and now as his life is slipping, he's siblings have all already passed and he is alone, but he had a full life doing what he loved without having to be concerned about generating an income.

As for Avery and Mauve, I think that they are both going to love their new reality.

If love is for fools, I'm happy to be one!!!

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Friends over fiance?

Meave and Alice are friends more like sisters who promised to stand by each other no matter what! Not even if one of them fell in love? What! I thought the friendship was pure manipulation at first!
A real friend would be happy and not trying to guilt trip you over falling in love and the man loving you back? Maeve is a sweet heart and Avery like most men are clueless. These two kiss and makeup and form the dummiest plan! Avery is completely adverse as he should be!!
But these two make it to the altar with Alice and her kid in tow! Yes there is humour and steam and a glimpse into Alice story and future which is very interesting to say the least! Get ready to laugh!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the O’Shea series and how the author has made them a family that is loyal to their friends and sometimes bucks society’s rules when they strongly disagree. This story shows the strong bond between two women, Maeve and Alice, and how they are each others champion even when times get tough. It also shows Avery as a man of strong character and principles. There is so much humor in this story while at the same time heartbreak is close by. I loved this story and the strong characters who are featured. This is a story that is definitely worth reading. I am looking forward to Alice’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trying to Keep the Peace . . .

Lord Avery O'Shea, Earl of Carnlough, finally sees his friends and family settling down, so he realizes it is time for him to do the same. He is interested in Maeve Sperrin, a sweet young woman but also a commoner. His friends don’t see a problem with that. And Maeve certainly would be happy to have him as her husband.

However, Maeve has a best friend, Alice Woodmont, who also wants Lord Avery. But she wants him as a means of providing for her and her illegitimate son. Alice is very selfish and willing to do almost anything to get what she wants. Will her scheming take Avery away from Maeve? Or is Avery working on a plan of his own?

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

She needed an unconventional man.
Another fun romp with the O’Shea’s awaits you in this tale. Avery will have a challenge because not one but two ladies have set their caps on him. Who will he choose? One is a bit naughty and other not so much. This book was such fun to read. I loved the interaction it was smart and witty and that made the book extra special. Oh I almost forgot there are a few twists along the way. There is a nice surprise at the end too. This book was such a pleasure to read I highly recommend it. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maeve and Alice are the best of friends, supportive and loyal in good times and bad, but now they want the same man, Lord Avery O’Shea. Alice doesn’t love Avery, but she is desperate for a husband to care for her and her son. Maeve, on the other hand, loves him. The rivalry puts a strain on their friendship. How does Avery feel?

I loved the friendship between Maeve and Alice. Avery and Maeve make a wonderful and entertaining couple. This is a well-written, humorous, touching story with strong, engaging characters. A perfect finale to a thoroughly enjoyable series, and a hint as to what comes next. Great read.

I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout. My review is voluntary.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maeve and Alice are both determined to win Lord Carnlough's hand in marriage but for different reasons. Alice was quite scheming in her attempts to push Maeve aside so should could compromise Avery. But Avery only has eyes for Maeve. The fighting friends may keep him from his happily ever after though. I thought Maeve was foolish to put Alice's wants above hers especially after what she did. I understand Alice was desperate, but she didn't care that Maeve loved Avery. I smiled when Avery was caught purchasing wool for knitting. I have an uncle who enjoys creating things with yarn.

[Ruchika Mahajan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though this book can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend to read the series in order for great fun.
The wicked O Shea family is epic .
Maeve and Avery are perfect for each other.but what is a love story without obstacles and a few bumps.
There is Alice,Maeve's best friend and the third angle of this love triangle.
I hope she gets her HEA.
This story was hilarious and has a different plot of a love triangle which made it all the more enjoyable.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Them seventh book in the That Wicked O'Shea Family series it is well written with a very good storyline that held my interest until the end. Maeve Sperrin and Lord Avery O’Shea, Earl of Carnlough, along with Alice Woodmont and the secret someone is keeping. I enjoyed seeing this story come together. The church scene was just great. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TERESA · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a little sizzler! Very entertaining and it keeps the pages turning!!! I enjoyed this romp and found the characters witty and amusing. The storyline was fun and kept me wanting more. I absolutely recommend this read.... I can't wait for the next book!

I was gifted this book as an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Agnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the previous book, we meet Mave and Alice, and they seem to be fierce, intelligent women. In this book, Alice is petty, disloyal, and without a shred of logic. She is also spoiled, selfish, and fussy. I do understand that her situation is difficult if not desperate, but she has more luck than she deserves.
I truly enjoy Merry Farmer's books, but I am not sure I will be reading the one about Alice.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery O'Shea is a happy go lucky guy who has no urge to get married. But when he meets Maeve it all changes. Problem is her best friend, Alice is in desperate need of a husband and she also goes after Avery. This causes problems for Avery and Maeve. Maeve stays loyal to Alice and the kind hearted Avery does all he can to make sure Maeve will marry him while helping Alice.

[BROWN2 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining

These O’Shea’s do end up in some unexpected situations. Marvel has stood by Alice’s side through everything but she is not going to give up on her chance at love. Very entertaining and a little heartbreaking wit the way Alice treats her best friend. I hate to see these books end.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the different attitudes in this book. Avery O’Shea has his own way of thinking and won’t settle for somebody who doesn’t fit in with his beliefs. Maeve is ideal for him, but her loyalties get in the way, and Avery must fight for her. One thing I really loved about this book is that Avery didn’t fall for Alice’s antics.