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Never #3
Never Trust an Earl
Redcliffe Park, Northumberland, 1819
Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, arrives in Redcliffe village in the far north of England, to view his inheritance. The estate, Redcliffe Park, is miles from a decent town, and in need of extensive renovation.
A rake, says the squire’s wife, who heard all about him from her aunt in London. Rumors of Dominic’s scandalous lifestyle have quickly spread. His uncle, the former earl, was disliked. He failed to pay his debts. And it’s assumed his nephew is cut from the same cloth, or even worse, will ravage all the ladies in the village. It’s suspected his uncle distrusted banks, and stashed his wealth in a secret place somewhere on the estate.
Dominic wants to restore order to the estate to lease or sell it, then return to London. But his extremely attractive and capable housekeeper, Miss Olivia Jenner, makes him want more than a well-run house. He wants her in his life, in his bed. But she has plans of her own and doesn’t trust him.
Olivia Jenner has her own reasons for becoming the housekeeper, which she is not about to tell the earl. She loathed his uncle who destroyed her father’s life, and is determined to keep the rakish earl at arm’s length. But it becomes difficult for Olivia to hold on to her poor opinion of Dominic, after he toils in the fields with his plowman and works to improve the lives of those on his estate. Intrigued, Olivia can’t seem to stay away from him. She brings them lunch and hovers, admiring his fine physique and his straightforward manner with his workmen. He is not what she expected. But she cannot not lose her focus, she must find what she came for, then execute her plans for her future.
The house is broken into, and it’s believed they search for the money stashed away by his uncle. While Olivia and Dominic work together to discover who is behind it, a further threat appears. Someone wants Dominic dead.
The attraction between them grows to fever pitch. Dominic wants her, but will the independent and practical lady who considers the disparity in their births an impossible hurdle to overcome, ever agree?
Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, arrives in Redcliffe village in the far north of England, to view his inheritance. The estate, Redcliffe Park, is miles from a decent town, and in need of extensive renovation.
A rake, says the squire’s wife, who heard all about him from her aunt in London. Rumors of Dominic’s scandalous lifestyle have quickly spread. His uncle, the former earl, was disliked. He failed to pay his debts. And it’s assumed his nephew is cut from the same cloth, or even worse, will ravage all the ladies in the village. It’s suspected his uncle distrusted banks, and stashed his wealth in a secret place somewhere on the estate.
Dominic wants to restore order to the estate to lease or sell it, then return to London. But his extremely attractive and capable housekeeper, Miss Olivia Jenner, makes him want more than a well-run house. He wants her in his life, in his bed. But she has plans of her own and doesn’t trust him.
Olivia Jenner has her own reasons for becoming the housekeeper, which she is not about to tell the earl. She loathed his uncle who destroyed her father’s life, and is determined to keep the rakish earl at arm’s length. But it becomes difficult for Olivia to hold on to her poor opinion of Dominic, after he toils in the fields with his plowman and works to improve the lives of those on his estate. Intrigued, Olivia can’t seem to stay away from him. She brings them lunch and hovers, admiring his fine physique and his straightforward manner with his workmen. He is not what she expected. But she cannot not lose her focus, she must find what she came for, then execute her plans for her future.
The house is broken into, and it’s believed they search for the money stashed away by his uncle. While Olivia and Dominic work together to discover who is behind it, a further threat appears. Someone wants Dominic dead.
The attraction between them grows to fever pitch. Dominic wants her, but will the independent and practical lady who considers the disparity in their births an impossible hurdle to overcome, ever agree?
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2022
164 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Maggi Andersen
86 books328 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author of Regency romance, and winner of the RONE award, Maggi Andersen wrote her first book for publication after gaining a BA in English and an MA in Creative Writing. She lives on a farm in the beautiful Yarra Valley in Victoria, Australia. She wrote her first adventure story at 8 years old. Her novels are mostly adventure stories, but also sensual romances. Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen inspired her Regencies and Victoria Holt, her Gothic Victorian mysteries She also writes contemporary romantic suspense and young adult novels.
Maggi supports the RSPCA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals) and animals often feature in her books.
Maggi supports the RSPCA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals) and animals often feature in her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 28, 2022
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.
Never Trust an Earl by Maggi Andersen is the third book in the Never series. Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, has arrived in the village of Redcliffe to see his inherited Redcliffe Park estate in need of repair. Rumors that Dominic is a rake have spread. The former earl, who was his uncle, was not very well liked because he failed to pay his debts, so Dominic has a lot of work to do to prove he is not like him. His uncle is rumored to have stashed his wealth in a secret place on the estate. Dominic has plans to fix up the estate and lease or sell, returning to London. Miss Olivia Jenner is Dominic’s housekeeper. Dominic is attracted to her. Olivia doesn’t trust him, as her family was done wrong by his uncle. She has her own reasons for becoming the housekeeper. It becomes more and more difficult for Olivia to despise Dominic the more she gets to know him. When the house is broken into by someone in search of the money, it is quickly revealed that someone wants Dominic dead.
This book is a fun mix of mystery and romance. It definitely went in a direction I didn’t see coming.
Never Trust an Earl by Maggi Andersen is the third book in the Never series. Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, has arrived in the village of Redcliffe to see his inherited Redcliffe Park estate in need of repair. Rumors that Dominic is a rake have spread. The former earl, who was his uncle, was not very well liked because he failed to pay his debts, so Dominic has a lot of work to do to prove he is not like him. His uncle is rumored to have stashed his wealth in a secret place on the estate. Dominic has plans to fix up the estate and lease or sell, returning to London. Miss Olivia Jenner is Dominic’s housekeeper. Dominic is attracted to her. Olivia doesn’t trust him, as her family was done wrong by his uncle. She has her own reasons for becoming the housekeeper. It becomes more and more difficult for Olivia to despise Dominic the more she gets to know him. When the house is broken into by someone in search of the money, it is quickly revealed that someone wants Dominic dead.
This book is a fun mix of mystery and romance. It definitely went in a direction I didn’t see coming.
June 17, 2022
Redcliffe Park, Northumberland, 1819 & Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, arrives in Redcliffe village, to view his inheritance. The estate, Redcliffe Park, is miles from a decent town, and in need of extensive renovation. Rumours of Dominic’s scandalous lifestyle have spread. His uncle, the former earl, was disliked as he failed to pay his debts & it’s assumed his nephew is cut from the same cloth. It’s suspected his uncle stashed his wealth in a secret place somewhere on the estate. Dominic wants to restore order to the estate to lease or sell it, then return to London. But his extremely attractive and capable housekeeper. Olivia Jenner has her own reasons for becoming the housekeeper, which she is not about to tell the earl. She loathed his uncle who destroyed her father’s life, and is determined to keep the rakish earl at arm’s length. But Dominic is impossible to dislike, he toils in the fields with his ploughman and works to improve the lives of those on his estate. The house is broken into, and it’s believed they search for the money stashed away by his uncle. While Olivia and Dominic work together to discover who is behind it, a further threat appears. Someone wants Dominic dead.
This is the third book in the series & is easily read on its own but there is a lovely ‘catch up’ with previous characters at the end of this book. I loved both Dominic & Olivia, he’s nothing like is supposed reputation, which was a smear campaign, he’s hardworking, cheerful, kind & caring. Olivia wants the truth about her father to be revealed, she's also hardworking, unfailingly kind & caring. The chemistry between the pair sizzles from their first meeting & grows but it’s also their verbal bantering which is a delight. There’s also the mystery of whether the previous Earl stashed money in the house & also the attempts on Dominic's life. A well written romance, which ticked all the boxes for me & I read it in two sittings loving every minute
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the third book in the series & is easily read on its own but there is a lovely ‘catch up’ with previous characters at the end of this book. I loved both Dominic & Olivia, he’s nothing like is supposed reputation, which was a smear campaign, he’s hardworking, cheerful, kind & caring. Olivia wants the truth about her father to be revealed, she's also hardworking, unfailingly kind & caring. The chemistry between the pair sizzles from their first meeting & grows but it’s also their verbal bantering which is a delight. There’s also the mystery of whether the previous Earl stashed money in the house & also the attempts on Dominic's life. A well written romance, which ticked all the boxes for me & I read it in two sittings loving every minute
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 17, 2022
Having recently acquired his title, Dominic Thorne, Earl of Redcliffe, decides to travel to the family estate, Redcliffe Park. Staying away from London and rumors is in his best interest. At Redcliffe, he has work to do to repair the house and the estate. He needs a housekeeper. Miss Olivia Jenner works as a housekeeper for a most disagreeable lady. Once she hears the Earl is looking for a housekeeper, she applies for the job. Olivia has an ulterior motive. This will give her the opportunity to look for proof that substantiated her father's claim and left her with no money after his death. The attraction between Dominic and Olivia is a problem, one she tries to ignore. Dominic isn't use to anyone saying "NO" when it's something he wants, but he will do whatever it takes to change her mind. A prowler in the house and a murderer after Dominic, begins to awaken the passion that can no longer be denied. A gripping who done it and a simmering romance.
Heat level 2
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Heat level 2
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
August 13, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Inheriting a remote estate in Northumberland was unexpected for Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, and when he arrives to find it run down, without servants, and in need of a lot of TLC, all he wants is to restore it, and sell it off as quickly as possible. But when he arrives in the town, and rumours about his characters, and whether he was like his uncle or not, start to circulate, Dominic realises he needs to stay at Redcliffe, and restore his reputation before it's too late. The beautiful, young housekeeper, Olivia Jenner, complicates matters too, and it seems that she is hiding her own secrets too. As Olivia and Dominic spend more time together, and the sparks fly, will they be able to allow their relationship to flourish, or will the threats against Dominic's life ruin it all?
Never Trust an Earl was a really quick and enjoyable read. I had liked the previous books in the series when I read them, and immediately requested book 3 as soon as it was available, because I needed to know more about this series. The main characters, Dominic and Olivia, have pasts and secrets they want to keep, but it's soon clear that they need to work together, and that their feelings for one another could not be denied. I liked how independent Olivia was, and that she was willing to fight for what she could get, and she believed that was retribution for her father's suffering. The romance was sweet, and they brought out the best in each other, though there were moments where conflict could've just been resolved quicker if they communicated a little more. The mystery was enjoyable, and I feel like this book has tied up all of the loose ends from previous books, and ended the series really well.
Inheriting a remote estate in Northumberland was unexpected for Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, and when he arrives to find it run down, without servants, and in need of a lot of TLC, all he wants is to restore it, and sell it off as quickly as possible. But when he arrives in the town, and rumours about his characters, and whether he was like his uncle or not, start to circulate, Dominic realises he needs to stay at Redcliffe, and restore his reputation before it's too late. The beautiful, young housekeeper, Olivia Jenner, complicates matters too, and it seems that she is hiding her own secrets too. As Olivia and Dominic spend more time together, and the sparks fly, will they be able to allow their relationship to flourish, or will the threats against Dominic's life ruin it all?
Never Trust an Earl was a really quick and enjoyable read. I had liked the previous books in the series when I read them, and immediately requested book 3 as soon as it was available, because I needed to know more about this series. The main characters, Dominic and Olivia, have pasts and secrets they want to keep, but it's soon clear that they need to work together, and that their feelings for one another could not be denied. I liked how independent Olivia was, and that she was willing to fight for what she could get, and she believed that was retribution for her father's suffering. The romance was sweet, and they brought out the best in each other, though there were moments where conflict could've just been resolved quicker if they communicated a little more. The mystery was enjoyable, and I feel like this book has tied up all of the loose ends from previous books, and ended the series really well.
June 18, 2022
This is my 29th book by Maggie Andersen. I've been reading her for quite a few years now.
This was a good read and loved Olivia and Redcliffe.
This was a good read and loved Olivia and Redcliffe.
October 5, 2022
3.5/5.0
Lovely look at an era in history through the lens of romance. Nothing terribly riveting about the plot but nothing terribly bad about it, either. Just a nice easy stroll.
Lovely look at an era in history through the lens of romance. Nothing terribly riveting about the plot but nothing terribly bad about it, either. Just a nice easy stroll.
July 21, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook. This is my freely given opinion.
This is a 3rd book in a series and I will admit I have not read the first two in the series, but this story did read as a stand alone. There were some references to Daniel Thorne's two married friends, who I believe are the protagonists from the first two books, but they did not figure enough in the story that you felt that you needed to read the first two books to follow this story.
On saying that, I probably will go back and read the other stories preceding this at some point because I did enjoy reading this one.
Daniel Thorne becomes the Earl of Redcliffe unexpectedly, when his estranged uncle and both his cousins die. He inherits the family estate that he never knew because of a mysterious estrangement between his uncle, the previous earl, and his father. He had no real interest in the estate, until his social life in London becomes rather tainted for him when he is made the center of gossip and scandal, being labelled a licentious rake. He decides to go and spend time on the estate to see what is needed to improve it and figure if he wants to keep it or not. When there, he discovers it is quite run down, neglected, and abandoned, and has been so for years as his uncle became a bit of a paranoid recluse, after an accident and prolonged illness. For various reasons, including rumors of ghosts in the home, the home is neglected and people leery to work there initially, when Daniel comes to take up residence.
Because of his uncle's quirks, including being cheap and not paying for items and services, the people of the local town of Redcliffe are leery of Daniel, and he thinks perhaps also some of the gossip of his reputation may have spread as well. Regardless, as a bachelor earl, there are those who are eager to curry his favor as well, and he is aware of the fact that he would also have to consider a suitable bride to become his countess as well.
Olivia Jenner is a young woman who lost her social standing and must seek work after the death of her father, a local squire and horse breeder, and some of her ills she lays at the feet of the old Earl of Redcliffe. She was forced to seek work as a housekeeper for a member of the local gentry. When Daniel reopens the family home, she seeks to work for him as his housekeeper. Daniel is initially reluctant, worried about how that would affect his reputation, having a young and attractive woman such as Olivia living in his home, but in the end, she comes to work for him, to help him set his family home to rights.
Despite knowing they are far apart in social standing, Daniel and Olivia are drawn to each other. But Olivia has an ulterior motive for working in the house and that is to find proof that the old earl cheated her father, and to get what is due to her so she can secure her future. After a frightening night time Olivia witnesses, Daniel and Olivia investigate the mystery of what has been happening in the house and the rumors of the earl's hidden treasure. Olivia is also hoping to find the proof she is seeking. This forces Daniel and Olivia to spend more time together, and the more they learn about each other the stronger their attraction.
This was a nicely written slow burn romance about two people who fall in love despite significant social barriers. Also, it was an adventure mystery too, as Daniel and Olivia unravel some past mysteries about Daniel's family. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Daniel and Olivia, and the underlying mystery as well. There was a lot of build up in the attraction, and passion, with Daniel and Olivia fighting off their mutual attraction through much of the story, especially as Olivia wanted to maintain her honour and reputation. The mystery was very much in the background, but was a fun element at times, such as with the hidden passages. But I felt that the part of the previous steward as a villain was not developed as much as it could have been.
But still, generally well written and enjoyed.
4 stars out of 5.
This is a 3rd book in a series and I will admit I have not read the first two in the series, but this story did read as a stand alone. There were some references to Daniel Thorne's two married friends, who I believe are the protagonists from the first two books, but they did not figure enough in the story that you felt that you needed to read the first two books to follow this story.
On saying that, I probably will go back and read the other stories preceding this at some point because I did enjoy reading this one.
Daniel Thorne becomes the Earl of Redcliffe unexpectedly, when his estranged uncle and both his cousins die. He inherits the family estate that he never knew because of a mysterious estrangement between his uncle, the previous earl, and his father. He had no real interest in the estate, until his social life in London becomes rather tainted for him when he is made the center of gossip and scandal, being labelled a licentious rake. He decides to go and spend time on the estate to see what is needed to improve it and figure if he wants to keep it or not. When there, he discovers it is quite run down, neglected, and abandoned, and has been so for years as his uncle became a bit of a paranoid recluse, after an accident and prolonged illness. For various reasons, including rumors of ghosts in the home, the home is neglected and people leery to work there initially, when Daniel comes to take up residence.
Because of his uncle's quirks, including being cheap and not paying for items and services, the people of the local town of Redcliffe are leery of Daniel, and he thinks perhaps also some of the gossip of his reputation may have spread as well. Regardless, as a bachelor earl, there are those who are eager to curry his favor as well, and he is aware of the fact that he would also have to consider a suitable bride to become his countess as well.
Olivia Jenner is a young woman who lost her social standing and must seek work after the death of her father, a local squire and horse breeder, and some of her ills she lays at the feet of the old Earl of Redcliffe. She was forced to seek work as a housekeeper for a member of the local gentry. When Daniel reopens the family home, she seeks to work for him as his housekeeper. Daniel is initially reluctant, worried about how that would affect his reputation, having a young and attractive woman such as Olivia living in his home, but in the end, she comes to work for him, to help him set his family home to rights.
Despite knowing they are far apart in social standing, Daniel and Olivia are drawn to each other. But Olivia has an ulterior motive for working in the house and that is to find proof that the old earl cheated her father, and to get what is due to her so she can secure her future. After a frightening night time Olivia witnesses, Daniel and Olivia investigate the mystery of what has been happening in the house and the rumors of the earl's hidden treasure. Olivia is also hoping to find the proof she is seeking. This forces Daniel and Olivia to spend more time together, and the more they learn about each other the stronger their attraction.
This was a nicely written slow burn romance about two people who fall in love despite significant social barriers. Also, it was an adventure mystery too, as Daniel and Olivia unravel some past mysteries about Daniel's family. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Daniel and Olivia, and the underlying mystery as well. There was a lot of build up in the attraction, and passion, with Daniel and Olivia fighting off their mutual attraction through much of the story, especially as Olivia wanted to maintain her honour and reputation. The mystery was very much in the background, but was a fun element at times, such as with the hidden passages. But I felt that the part of the previous steward as a villain was not developed as much as it could have been.
But still, generally well written and enjoyed.
4 stars out of 5.
October 4, 2022
Rating: 3.5/5.0
What a captivating regency romance! It superbly portrays all the beauty of the era while allowing the reader to join in the characters’ struggles and hardshipsas well.
Read full review in the 2022 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
What a captivating regency romance! It superbly portrays all the beauty of the era while allowing the reader to join in the characters’ struggles and hardshipsas well.
Read full review in the 2022 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 23, 2022
I enjoy Maggi Andersen's novels because she is one of the few modern writers who researches the Regency properly.
In this one, the new Earl of Radcliffe comes across as a nice man, mainly because he never expected to inherit the title. A soldier by profession, he is already sickened by London and the rakish reputation he has gained (unfairly). It's time for him to visit his sadly neglected estate for the first time - and he falls under its spell.
Miss Olivia Jenner has had to seek employment as a housekeeper since the tragic death of her father. She needs to prove her unfortunate parent was cheated out of the money that would have saved him. What could possibly go wrong?
You will find mystery, English rural life, a story in two POVs, gothic-style danger and an HEA in this novel.
I loved it.
In this one, the new Earl of Radcliffe comes across as a nice man, mainly because he never expected to inherit the title. A soldier by profession, he is already sickened by London and the rakish reputation he has gained (unfairly). It's time for him to visit his sadly neglected estate for the first time - and he falls under its spell.
Miss Olivia Jenner has had to seek employment as a housekeeper since the tragic death of her father. She needs to prove her unfortunate parent was cheated out of the money that would have saved him. What could possibly go wrong?
You will find mystery, English rural life, a story in two POVs, gothic-style danger and an HEA in this novel.
I loved it.
July 9, 2022
Never Trust an Earl is book 3 in author Maggi Andersen’s “The Never Series” and it’s an entertaining story that I enjoyed reading. The tropes include romance between social classes - a noble and a commoner, along with some mystery and intrigue. The MCs are Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, and Olivia Jenner who is the independent and practical housekeeper at the Earl’s residence Redcliffe Park. These two become acquainted when Dominic arrives at Redcliffe Park to view the estate and start the renovations and restorations that are desperately needed. He begins to hire the requisite staff to run his estate which is how Olivia enters his world when she applies for the position of housekeeper. Dominic is attracted to Olivia and can think of a few positions he wants Olivia in…housekeeper, lover, maybe even a wife. ❤️🔥 Olivia is likewise attracted to Dominic; however, she has another motive for seeking out the job at Redcliffe Park, she intends to locate information regarding her father and previous allegations made against him. In short, she wants to clear her late father’s name. 👀
This story has a lot of character growth as both Dominic and Olivia discover that previously assumed traits about the other are untrue. For instance, Olivia starts out believing that Dominic is like every other aristocrat, someone who is afraid to get his hands dirty or afraid of performing any type of labor due to it being thought of as “beneath” him. Instead Olivia finds a devoted, hard working man, who jumps in to help wherever it is needed and he enjoys it!
I loved watching Olivia discover that Dominic was not only nothing like the previous Earl and instead he was someone she could respect and admire. The author unfortunately didn’t really play up the angst throughout the story and self-revelations (I love angsty reads), however there was still enough to cause the reader to wonder if the characters would truly ever fall in love. The characters and their personalities definitely grow on you as you read their story.
I also enjoyed the inclusion of characters from previous stories - I always love “revisiting” old friends 😉 and the author does a great job of their inclusion.
Overall I enjoyed this story with its mixture of romance, mystery, intrigue, and of course passion. If you are looking for a romance story then I encourage you to give this a try! A story that nicely wraps the series up, yet can be read as a standalone.
Make sure you check out the other books in The Never Series 📚
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 3.5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥
Review Copy of Never Trust an Earl provided by Dragonblade Publishing for an honest Review.
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*More Reviews by Jaime can be found at Alpha Book Club and via Goodreads.
This story has a lot of character growth as both Dominic and Olivia discover that previously assumed traits about the other are untrue. For instance, Olivia starts out believing that Dominic is like every other aristocrat, someone who is afraid to get his hands dirty or afraid of performing any type of labor due to it being thought of as “beneath” him. Instead Olivia finds a devoted, hard working man, who jumps in to help wherever it is needed and he enjoys it!
I loved watching Olivia discover that Dominic was not only nothing like the previous Earl and instead he was someone she could respect and admire. The author unfortunately didn’t really play up the angst throughout the story and self-revelations (I love angsty reads), however there was still enough to cause the reader to wonder if the characters would truly ever fall in love. The characters and their personalities definitely grow on you as you read their story.
I also enjoyed the inclusion of characters from previous stories - I always love “revisiting” old friends 😉 and the author does a great job of their inclusion.
Overall I enjoyed this story with its mixture of romance, mystery, intrigue, and of course passion. If you are looking for a romance story then I encourage you to give this a try! A story that nicely wraps the series up, yet can be read as a standalone.
Make sure you check out the other books in The Never Series 📚
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 3.5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥
Review Copy of Never Trust an Earl provided by Dragonblade Publishing for an honest Review.
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*More Reviews by Jaime can be found at Alpha Book Club and via Goodreads.
June 28, 2022
4 stars
I enjoyed this story. The Earl, Dominic returns to his uncle's house to see if he can renovate or sell the property. Olivia, who has always lived in the area is working as a housekeeper for a horrible woman. She became impoverished on the death of her father. Her Father sold some horses to Dominic's uncle and he never got paid. The uncle was suffering for mental health problems but was also convinced someone was out to get him and had hidden his treasure.
Olivia changes jobs goes to work for the Earl in an effort to clear her fathers name and get enough money to open a haberdashery shop. Dominic is passionately interested in Olivia at the beginning perhaps as a mistress but eventually he realises he wants her in his life in a more meaningful way.
I liked the mystery and the conversations between the main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this story. The Earl, Dominic returns to his uncle's house to see if he can renovate or sell the property. Olivia, who has always lived in the area is working as a housekeeper for a horrible woman. She became impoverished on the death of her father. Her Father sold some horses to Dominic's uncle and he never got paid. The uncle was suffering for mental health problems but was also convinced someone was out to get him and had hidden his treasure.
Olivia changes jobs goes to work for the Earl in an effort to clear her fathers name and get enough money to open a haberdashery shop. Dominic is passionately interested in Olivia at the beginning perhaps as a mistress but eventually he realises he wants her in his life in a more meaningful way.
I liked the mystery and the conversations between the main characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2022
Rake Dominic decides to go visit his dilapidated estate his eccentric uncle left him. Hiring staff to clean the place up, he hires Olivia as housekeeper. Olivia takes the job hoping to prove that her deceased father was right when he said he was not paid by the late uncle for horses he sold to him. When someone keeps trying to kill Dominic. Olivia joins in to help him. I did find Dominic to be a little too self-assured and commanding at times. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
June 25, 2022
TW/CW: Sex, violence, character death, suicide
REVIEW: I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book is the story of Olivia, a young woman who has fallen socially since the the tragic death of her father. Hoping to restore her father’s honor, she takes a job as the Housekeeper at the Earl of Redcliffe’s estate.
For the first three quarters of this book, I really enjoyed it. I thought it was well written, and the mystery kept me really intrigued. Sadly, the last quarter of the book did not deliver at all. Everything was resolved far too quickly and the writing quality even declined, as the proposal and wedding chapters were, sadly, very cheesy. It’s really sad to me when a book seems to offer so much and then fails in the last quarter, but this one sadly did. It’s not a terrible book, but certainly not the first that I would recommend.
REVIEW: I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book is the story of Olivia, a young woman who has fallen socially since the the tragic death of her father. Hoping to restore her father’s honor, she takes a job as the Housekeeper at the Earl of Redcliffe’s estate.
For the first three quarters of this book, I really enjoyed it. I thought it was well written, and the mystery kept me really intrigued. Sadly, the last quarter of the book did not deliver at all. Everything was resolved far too quickly and the writing quality even declined, as the proposal and wedding chapters were, sadly, very cheesy. It’s really sad to me when a book seems to offer so much and then fails in the last quarter, but this one sadly did. It’s not a terrible book, but certainly not the first that I would recommend.
June 23, 2022
This was an okay read for me and I admit it that it could be a bit of me and a bit of the writing that lent itself towards my mediocre feeling for this story.
The writing style didn't grab my interest and I didn't feel any enthusiasm for the characters. The plot moved slowly and there seemed to be a lot of redundancy and not as much forward movement as I would have liked to see.
I looked at the reviews currently up for this story and it seems that a lot of Maggi Andersen fans highly enjoyed this installment in The Never Series. So, if you are a fan of Andersen, don't let my review dissuade you from giving this book a try.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this eARC thanks to Dragonsblade Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The writing style didn't grab my interest and I didn't feel any enthusiasm for the characters. The plot moved slowly and there seemed to be a lot of redundancy and not as much forward movement as I would have liked to see.
I looked at the reviews currently up for this story and it seems that a lot of Maggi Andersen fans highly enjoyed this installment in The Never Series. So, if you are a fan of Andersen, don't let my review dissuade you from giving this book a try.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this eARC thanks to Dragonsblade Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 26, 2022
4.5 STARS
I did enjoy the H/h and their honesty with each other. I did figure out one of the villains but still made the journey entertaining. They're are several villains to sort through and some twists along the way.
Some interesting secondary characters too. There is lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level barely 3 out of 5.
They're are a couple mysteries to solve and a couple attempted murders. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and a tad of spice.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide if you want to read this story. Even though book 3 of the series, it is a stand alone story. (ljb)
I did enjoy the H/h and their honesty with each other. I did figure out one of the villains but still made the journey entertaining. They're are several villains to sort through and some twists along the way.
Some interesting secondary characters too. There is lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level barely 3 out of 5.
They're are a couple mysteries to solve and a couple attempted murders. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and a tad of spice.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide if you want to read this story. Even though book 3 of the series, it is a stand alone story. (ljb)
July 10, 2022
3 1/2 stars. I read this while on vacation, and it's been several days since I finished it, so I have to admit my memory isn't extremely fresh. I did appreciate the historical research and the writing style was clean. Also, there are a few emotional scenes that worked to help strengthen the MCs' chemistry. (If you're a fan of steamy romances I have to warn that this is very much a slow-burner.) I particularly liked the start to the book, and looked forward to seeing what would unfold between H/h.
There are times when the MCs become well fleshed out, but there are also character inconsistencies.
The main issue is the premise, that a young housekeeper would put her hard-won reputation at risk by working for a rumored rake to try to find information to clear her late father's name; she believes that just by clearing his name that will make her more marriageable in the village. Meanwhile, she never has a chaperone present when she's with H and dresses up to enhance her attractiveness, regardless of the fact that she's aware of gossip circulating while she's in H's household. Considering the ultra-conservative mores for single women in those days, this doesn't make sense.
As far as the H is concerned, he is rakish, but not (?). There is an awkward scene early on when h has to come into his bedroom to rouse him because his house has been broken into, the guard was knocked unconscious, and she was nearly attacked. The first thing H does is grab her and pull her on top of him in bed, abruptly assuming she wants him. He never apologizes, and later even thinks longingly about what almost happened. But through the rest the book, it's emphasized that he's the picture of restraint; he has no idea who started the nasty rumors that he's a rake.
On to the ending. Not to give away spoilers, but it is a bit of a downer. I was hoping for something more twisty here. I also have to mention that a big deal is made out of what a witch h's former employer is, and how she's interested in H, but she ends up fading completely into the background and has very little to do with the main plot. On the bright side, I loved the relationship H had with his horse. I'm a sucker for books that feature wounded animals and people.
I liked this book well enough to possibly seek out other books by this author, but during a faster-paced reading week might have given this 3 stars rather than 4.
Steam level: 1.
There are times when the MCs become well fleshed out, but there are also character inconsistencies.
The main issue is the premise, that a young housekeeper would put her hard-won reputation at risk by working for a rumored rake to try to find information to clear her late father's name; she believes that just by clearing his name that will make her more marriageable in the village. Meanwhile, she never has a chaperone present when she's with H and dresses up to enhance her attractiveness, regardless of the fact that she's aware of gossip circulating while she's in H's household. Considering the ultra-conservative mores for single women in those days, this doesn't make sense.
As far as the H is concerned, he is rakish, but not (?). There is an awkward scene early on when h has to come into his bedroom to rouse him because his house has been broken into, the guard was knocked unconscious, and she was nearly attacked. The first thing H does is grab her and pull her on top of him in bed, abruptly assuming she wants him. He never apologizes, and later even thinks longingly about what almost happened. But through the rest the book, it's emphasized that he's the picture of restraint; he has no idea who started the nasty rumors that he's a rake.
On to the ending. Not to give away spoilers, but it is a bit of a downer. I was hoping for something more twisty here. I also have to mention that a big deal is made out of what a witch h's former employer is, and how she's interested in H, but she ends up fading completely into the background and has very little to do with the main plot. On the bright side, I loved the relationship H had with his horse. I'm a sucker for books that feature wounded animals and people.
I liked this book well enough to possibly seek out other books by this author, but during a faster-paced reading week might have given this 3 stars rather than 4.
Steam level: 1.
May 3, 2024
This is an arc review from Net Galley.
Dominic, Earl of Redcliffe, has recently inherited his title and a home and tenants he has never met. When Olivia Jenner offers her services as housekeeper, Dominic knows he shouldn't accept. He shouldn't have a woman this beautiful under his roof and care. But he gives in. Then the estate is beset by thieves and attempted murderers. As Olivia and Dominic grow closer, will what society thinks of the pair keep them apart?
Pros:
- Beautiful setting - the home and the land. It felt very gothic romance with a good "before and after" feeling with the cleaning of the space.
- Olivia's backstory is believable. The HEA would have been much harder to believe if she hadn't had a more prestigious background.
- The mystery of the the thief and attempted murder kept the story fresh and interesting and set it apart from other novels like it.
- The side characters were so well done. I loved the ragtag crew they were getting together to help repair the home.
Cons:
- Dominic has very little personality. He seems like a generally nice man who inherited a title... but that's kind of it. I didn't get what drew Olivia to him so much other than how attractive he was.
- The spice was a little strange to me. It set up to be spicy, but then faded to black. I don't quite understand the build up that Dominic spends considering mistresses and then bedding Olivia to not have more detail. And then to have more detail in the epilogue. It felt disjointed.
- Dominic and Olivia never really get to know each other. They spend time together but never talk about anything of consequence except for his uncle.
Overall - the book had good bones but didn't quite live up to what I hoped. If you like historical romance and a little mystery, this might be your cup of tea.
Dominic, Earl of Redcliffe, has recently inherited his title and a home and tenants he has never met. When Olivia Jenner offers her services as housekeeper, Dominic knows he shouldn't accept. He shouldn't have a woman this beautiful under his roof and care. But he gives in. Then the estate is beset by thieves and attempted murderers. As Olivia and Dominic grow closer, will what society thinks of the pair keep them apart?
Pros:
- Beautiful setting - the home and the land. It felt very gothic romance with a good "before and after" feeling with the cleaning of the space.
- Olivia's backstory is believable. The HEA would have been much harder to believe if she hadn't had a more prestigious background.
- The mystery of the the thief and attempted murder kept the story fresh and interesting and set it apart from other novels like it.
- The side characters were so well done. I loved the ragtag crew they were getting together to help repair the home.
Cons:
- Dominic has very little personality. He seems like a generally nice man who inherited a title... but that's kind of it. I didn't get what drew Olivia to him so much other than how attractive he was.
- The spice was a little strange to me. It set up to be spicy, but then faded to black. I don't quite understand the build up that Dominic spends considering mistresses and then bedding Olivia to not have more detail. And then to have more detail in the epilogue. It felt disjointed.
- Dominic and Olivia never really get to know each other. They spend time together but never talk about anything of consequence except for his uncle.
Overall - the book had good bones but didn't quite live up to what I hoped. If you like historical romance and a little mystery, this might be your cup of tea.
July 8, 2022
This is the third book of the Ms. Andersen's Never series and it is the first time for me reading something by this author. Dominic, having recently come into his title, Earl of Redcliffe, decides to go to his family estate. He has gained somewhat of a rakish reputation and time away from London would do him good. Arriving at his estate he realizes it is in need of much cleaning and repair. He sets about hiring staff and is desperate need of a housekeeper. Olivia has been working as a housekeeper since the death of her father. When she hears of the new position available, she applies. She has ulterior motives for taking this job, and hopes it will help her find proof to redeem her father's reputation. The attraction between them is strong and a romance begins to blossom. But danger from different sources comes at Dominic and they work together to solve the mystery of who wants to cause him harm. Mystery, romance, and danger definitely made this an intriguing read and kept me turning the pages anxious to see what happens next. I found this to be a very entertaining and enjoyable read and the story captured my attention from the start. The characters were nicely developed and there was no question as to how strong their chemistry was. A very well-written story and I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
June 23, 2022
Danger comes at the Earl of Redcliffe from unexpected sources in this mystery romance. Having inherited a title and the accompanying Redcliffe Estate, initially Deminic thinks to investigate the property, see what needs to be done, and then cast off the burden from his shoulders by selling it. However, once he becomes involved in sorting out the mess left by his late uncle, Dominic discovers that there is more than meets the eye and he in fact has some mysteries to solve, one of which is the enigma of his housekeeper. Miss Olivia Jenner has been left more or less destitute upon the death of her father, but in order to redeem his reputation, she has to find proof of the fact that he was swindled, and that means putting herself in the path of the very attractive new Earl of Redcliffe. Working together at the rundown estate brings Dominic and Olivia into close contact and an attraction that they cannot deny flares into life. It is only when Dominic's life appears to be in danger that he takes the situation seriously, but the question to be answered is just who are the villains threatening his future, and how many of them are there? The novel comes to a successful but fairly sad conclusion, bringing a resolution they never thought possible. I received a copy of this book through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
July 6, 2023
Danger Abounds!
There’s a murderer and a thief intent on doing their worst for Dominic and his House Keeper, Olivia so with all this danger around, will the two of them be able to lead normal lives and will they manage to survive it all?
This is what this story deals with and I simply loved the way these two main characters dealt with what was happening in their lives.
Dominic is the new Earl of Redcliffe and he has been left a mess to sort out. Contrary to the title, I found him to be very trustworthy and I loved the way he went about getting things done. Even though he has a reputation of being a rake, in this story he reforms somewhat and comes across as being a caring and compassionate person, one who is willing to look out for everyone around him and he does just that.
What I loved about Olivia is that she was efficient and got things done quickly and quietly. She didn’t want to fall in love but did and that really troubled her because it didn’t fit into her future plans.
All in all, this was such a good romantic story - one which I am quite happy to recommend.
There’s a murderer and a thief intent on doing their worst for Dominic and his House Keeper, Olivia so with all this danger around, will the two of them be able to lead normal lives and will they manage to survive it all?
This is what this story deals with and I simply loved the way these two main characters dealt with what was happening in their lives.
Dominic is the new Earl of Redcliffe and he has been left a mess to sort out. Contrary to the title, I found him to be very trustworthy and I loved the way he went about getting things done. Even though he has a reputation of being a rake, in this story he reforms somewhat and comes across as being a caring and compassionate person, one who is willing to look out for everyone around him and he does just that.
What I loved about Olivia is that she was efficient and got things done quickly and quietly. She didn’t want to fall in love but did and that really troubled her because it didn’t fit into her future plans.
All in all, this was such a good romantic story - one which I am quite happy to recommend.
June 17, 2022
Dominic Thorne, the Earl of Redcliffe, comes to Redcliffe Park, the estate left to him when his uncle died, planning to ready it for sale. It’s going to take a lot of work, and the longer he stays, the more determined he is to restore it for himself. The estate needs staff, including a housekeeper. Olivia Jenner, daughter of the former squire, would very much like to have that position, not only for the wages, but to find proof that the old earl cheated her father and demand recompense. Mystery, secrets, danger from several sources, and a budding romance make it hard to put this one down. Dominic and Olivia are great together; their chemistry sizzles. They are surrounded by a delightful cast of characters and not one, but two villains out to do them harm. A great story and a wonderful addition to the series.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.
February 5, 2025
apart 3 of the Never series continues well
Dominic has been a presence in the two previous books as a friend of Charles and Nicholas. Now he has inherited the title of Earl of Redcliffe and has traveled to the estate to view the state of things.
Olivia Jenner believes Dominic’s uncle (the previous Earl) was responsible for the untimely death of her father when he failed to settle a debt.
Olivia becomes Dominic’s housekeeper when she is dismissed by her previous employer. This also means she can search the house for evidence for the truth behind the non-payment.
Added to this is the mystery of strange lights in the house following the death of the old Earl and the sightings of lights in the house following his death. And just who is trying to kill Dominic?
Olivia and Dominic will need to work together in order to get to the bottom of these mysteries before they can reach their HEA.
Dominic has been a presence in the two previous books as a friend of Charles and Nicholas. Now he has inherited the title of Earl of Redcliffe and has traveled to the estate to view the state of things.
Olivia Jenner believes Dominic’s uncle (the previous Earl) was responsible for the untimely death of her father when he failed to settle a debt.
Olivia becomes Dominic’s housekeeper when she is dismissed by her previous employer. This also means she can search the house for evidence for the truth behind the non-payment.
Added to this is the mystery of strange lights in the house following the death of the old Earl and the sightings of lights in the house following his death. And just who is trying to kill Dominic?
Olivia and Dominic will need to work together in order to get to the bottom of these mysteries before they can reach their HEA.
June 22, 2022
What an interesting situation the new Earl of Redcliffe finds himself in. Enjoying London and finding himself drawn in caricature with not one; but three women in his bed. Guess it is time for him to leave for his run-down estate left to him by his uncle. He needs clean air to breathe and plans to make for his inheritance. Oliva Jenner has her own problems trying to secure her own future. Left with nothing after the death of her father, she finds herself as housekeeper for the nasty cruel Lady Lowry. What a captivating plot that includes mystery, ghosts, and a hidden treasure. Keeps you reading and enjoying the happenings of the Earl of Redcliffe. Well done! The whole series is enjoyable.
June 16, 2022
Sit back and enjoy this story full of mystery, danger, secrets and a building attraction that cannot be denied!
He came back to see the estate left to him after his uncle's death. What he finds is a mess and he is determined to restore it, even if he gets rid of it.
She becomes his housekeeper for several reasons, least of all to find proof his uncle really did ruin her father and leave them penniless.
But other forces are at work and as the two feel the heat building, they have much more to worry about. Staying alive is most important.....
He came back to see the estate left to him after his uncle's death. What he finds is a mess and he is determined to restore it, even if he gets rid of it.
She becomes his housekeeper for several reasons, least of all to find proof his uncle really did ruin her father and leave them penniless.
But other forces are at work and as the two feel the heat building, they have much more to worry about. Staying alive is most important.....
June 17, 2022
Dominic Thorne, Earl of Radcliffe has had enough of London and the unfair reputation he has. It's time for him to visit the seat of the Earldom for the first time. It's a sadly neglected estate.
Miss Oliva Jenner has worked as a housekeeper since the death of her father. She needs to prove her father was cheated out of the money that would have saved him from drastic action.
This is a historical romance with a lovely mystery to solve and delightful characters. There is some unexpected danger and heartbreaking answers.
Great fun.
Miss Oliva Jenner has worked as a housekeeper since the death of her father. She needs to prove her father was cheated out of the money that would have saved him from drastic action.
This is a historical romance with a lovely mystery to solve and delightful characters. There is some unexpected danger and heartbreaking answers.
Great fun.
June 22, 2022
Thanks NetGalley for a good read. A little suspense, a little action and a little more romance. Olivia though young became the housekeeper at Redcliffe for the Earl. She liked him the more she was around Dominic. She helped him put the estate to order and find the mystery about the estate. She finds she loves him and he can't do without her. When someone tries to kill him she takes care of him day and night. Olivia finds that the steward his uncle had stole fro him and probably killed the uncle.
June 25, 2022
Mystery, secrets, hidden treasure, danger including attempted murder, and a budding romance make it hard to put this one down and lead to a late night for me. Dominic and Olivia's chemistry sizzles. from the start although they do not act on this as love develops as a slow burn due to the outside influences keeping things busy. Can be read as a stand alone as I haven't read the other's in this series although the author is a firm favourite. My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 12, 2026
2.5 rounded up
It wasn’t too bad. It felt a bit drawn out. Also, it’s kinda closed-door except for the epilogue, which I find odd. Some things are just told to the reader, like the first time he says I love you and asks her to marry him. Which happens after the sex scene, the CLOSED-DOOR sex scene. Why didn’t we get to see that, but get to see some unnecessary sex in the epilogue, I don’t know. Also, she was a bit of a Mary Sue: she could do no wrong, and was very good at nursing with zero training.
It wasn’t too bad. It felt a bit drawn out. Also, it’s kinda closed-door except for the epilogue, which I find odd. Some things are just told to the reader, like the first time he says I love you and asks her to marry him. Which happens after the sex scene, the CLOSED-DOOR sex scene. Why didn’t we get to see that, but get to see some unnecessary sex in the epilogue, I don’t know. Also, she was a bit of a Mary Sue: she could do no wrong, and was very good at nursing with zero training.
July 30, 2022
Part of the reason the "hero" leaves London is that he is offended that he's being called a rake. As soon as he gets to the local village he sees a local woman and decides he needs to seduce her. Almost every page references how they are attracted to each other. Got it. The mystery is not very mysterious. On a positive note, it seems well edited.
July 18, 2023
Regency romance
Redcliffe was not meant to inherit the earldom, but he did. Olivia has reason not to trust him, but she does.
Theft, murder attempts and fraud dog the new earl and his housekeeper. Will love succeed?
A sweet romance with all of the marks of a good Regency romance. Very enjoyable.
Redcliffe was not meant to inherit the earldom, but he did. Olivia has reason not to trust him, but she does.
Theft, murder attempts and fraud dog the new earl and his housekeeper. Will love succeed?
A sweet romance with all of the marks of a good Regency romance. Very enjoyable.
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