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Lost Lords #1
As an Earl Desires
USA Today bestselling and Rita Award-winning author Lorraine Heath has created a lush, emotional love story. Camilla Hutchenson, countess, sponsor, darling of the ton, has reached a staggering level of social power. But one man has managed to distract her attention from her schedule of charity endeavours and teas—and not just because he holds the deed to her estate. The man in question, Archibald Warner, is the new Earl of Sachse. Though at first meeting he suspects his new ward of being nothing more than a social bit of fluff, the more time passes, the more he finds himself drawn to her. But there is something she is hiding from him, and she hesitates to show him her real heart, even though she wishes she could learn to trust him with it. For somehow she knows . . . if only she can give him the chance, he will teach her everything she could hope to learn about love.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 29, 2005
185 people are currently reading
1421 people want to read
About the author
Lorraine Heath
90 books4,376 followersAlso writes Young Adult under Rachel Hawthorne, Jade Parker, and with her son as J.A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
June 30, 2017
Camilla Hutchenson is a Fancy Lady Countess. Archibald Warner is a nonfancy common Earl. Camilla is ICE COLD and also illiterate. Archie is HOT AS FIRE and a former teacher. Spoiler: They eventually get it on.
1. This was fine! It was a book! With pages! I read them!
2. Camilla was fine! I mean, I haven't read the book where she's the villain, but I'm almost OK with that because seeing her reduced to yet another Love-Doth-Overflow heroine was so...dull. I rather liked her as a distant icy secret-keeper. Except then once she Found The Power of Love, her iciness is BANISHED FOREVER. BORING.
3. Archie was also fine. I feel like the book just kind of opened in the middle of things, though. Like, no sign of their first meeting. No broaching of a sexual awareness. Just BAM: FEEL THE MIGHTY BONER ALOFT IN THE AIR.
4. This is actually the third or forth time I've picked this novel up: I recall being really thrown by the opening chapters before and putting it down with no interest. This time I PERSEVERED and came out the other side less confused and more impressed by the misuse of the word DEW again.
5. Also, a handy definition: Barren /'berən/ noun. A state of being that has absolutely nothing to do with anything unless used as an excuse to keep a heroine from marrying her hero of choice because obviously the state of her womb trumps her actual emotions, wants, or desires. Discarded by the epilogue, if not sooner.
1. This was fine! It was a book! With pages! I read them!
2. Camilla was fine! I mean, I haven't read the book where she's the villain, but I'm almost OK with that because seeing her reduced to yet another Love-Doth-Overflow heroine was so...dull. I rather liked her as a distant icy secret-keeper. Except then once she Found The Power of Love, her iciness is BANISHED FOREVER. BORING.
3. Archie was also fine. I feel like the book just kind of opened in the middle of things, though. Like, no sign of their first meeting. No broaching of a sexual awareness. Just BAM: FEEL THE MIGHTY BONER ALOFT IN THE AIR.
4. This is actually the third or forth time I've picked this novel up: I recall being really thrown by the opening chapters before and putting it down with no interest. This time I PERSEVERED and came out the other side less confused and more impressed by the misuse of the word DEW again.
5. Also, a handy definition: Barren /'berən/ noun. A state of being that has absolutely nothing to do with anything unless used as an excuse to keep a heroine from marrying her hero of choice because obviously the state of her womb trumps her actual emotions, wants, or desires. Discarded by the epilogue, if not sooner.
October 15, 2017
3,5
Con una trama bastante tópica en este tipo de libros pero con unos personajes totalmente atípicos, la autora ha creado una historia que a mí me ha convencido y que ha hecho que no pudiera dejar de leer para saber qué es lo ocurriría a continuación.
Cuando hablo de personajes atípicos es porque en pocos libros el protagonista es un conde que hereda el título por casualidad y antes se ha estado ganando la vida como un profesor de pueblo. a Archer no solo no le importa el título ni se siente diferente por él, sino que siempre dice y hace lo que sus sentimientos y sus ideas le dictan. Comete errores, pero ¿Eso no es lo que hace que un personaje se vea menos perfecto y más real? Sus escenas tanto con su familia como con Camilla, la protagonista, han hecho que me salieran suspiros en más de una ocasión según iba leyendo. Es un personaje que reúne todas las características de un protagonista de novela romántica.
En cuanto a Camilla, es la que más me ha sorprendido. Una mujer que cuando empieza la historia te choca por su personalidad, a medida que su carácter se va abriendo gracias a Archer se va descubriendo una mujer vulnerable, que ha sufrido durante más de 15 años un matrimonio violento tanto física como mentalmente y con unas secuelas de su infancia que han hecho que se vea poca cosa y se crea inferior al protagonista.
Como se suele decir, "No es oro todo lo que reluce" y "El dinero no da la felicidad"
No es un personaje perfecto tampoco, tiene momentos en los que me daba ganas de darla capones por no ver lo que tiene delante, pero la autora ha hecho que empatice con ella y no me ha parecido tan malo.
Los secundarios también han sido una parte importante de la trama, sobre todo la familia de Archer y un personaje sorpresa que aparece al final y que ha hecho que todo diera un giro de 180 grados que no me esperaba, lo admito.
Y bueno, qué decir de el final. Bastante previsible, pero muy sentimental.
Tiene sus cosillas, pero es un libro que he disfrutado mucho leyendo y espero que los otros dos que vienen detrás tengan también ese enganche que ha tenido este en mí.
Con una trama bastante tópica en este tipo de libros pero con unos personajes totalmente atípicos, la autora ha creado una historia que a mí me ha convencido y que ha hecho que no pudiera dejar de leer para saber qué es lo ocurriría a continuación.
Cuando hablo de personajes atípicos es porque en pocos libros el protagonista es un conde que hereda el título por casualidad y antes se ha estado ganando la vida como un profesor de pueblo. a Archer no solo no le importa el título ni se siente diferente por él, sino que siempre dice y hace lo que sus sentimientos y sus ideas le dictan. Comete errores, pero ¿Eso no es lo que hace que un personaje se vea menos perfecto y más real? Sus escenas tanto con su familia como con Camilla, la protagonista, han hecho que me salieran suspiros en más de una ocasión según iba leyendo. Es un personaje que reúne todas las características de un protagonista de novela romántica.
En cuanto a Camilla, es la que más me ha sorprendido. Una mujer que cuando empieza la historia te choca por su personalidad, a medida que su carácter se va abriendo gracias a Archer se va descubriendo una mujer vulnerable, que ha sufrido durante más de 15 años un matrimonio violento tanto física como mentalmente y con unas secuelas de su infancia que han hecho que se vea poca cosa y se crea inferior al protagonista.
Como se suele decir, "No es oro todo lo que reluce" y "El dinero no da la felicidad"
No es un personaje perfecto tampoco, tiene momentos en los que me daba ganas de darla capones por no ver lo que tiene delante, pero la autora ha hecho que empatice con ella y no me ha parecido tan malo.
Los secundarios también han sido una parte importante de la trama, sobre todo la familia de Archer y un personaje sorpresa que aparece al final y que ha hecho que todo diera un giro de 180 grados que no me esperaba, lo admito.
Y bueno, qué decir de el final. Bastante previsible, pero muy sentimental.
Tiene sus cosillas, pero es un libro que he disfrutado mucho leyendo y espero que los otros dos que vienen detrás tengan también ese enganche que ha tenido este en mí.
February 9, 2010
This was a good historical romance. Heath really has the chops in that area. I love her stories and this made four star plus a little.
However, it wasn't as good as the Scoundrels of St. James books. To me, anyway. Those are really amazing. This is good. Very good.
My problem was a mercenary heroine. She had good reasons, and thanks to Heath's attention to organics and logic, the hero knew her reasons in plenty of time for their love to make sense. So often I'm supposed to expect that the hero will fall in love with a selfish-seeming or rude heroine even though I know he doesn't know the back story. All he sees is the nasty. Not so this time. The hero knows enough to be very interested and the more he learns the deeper he falls. It's lovely.
When the heroine comes around it's poignant and very believable.
There was just something about the setup that didn't really pull me in right away. But that's a relative criticism. I was so in love with the Heath series I just read that this book started at a disadvantage.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Lost Lords trilogy after I read a new release. Heath is quickly climbing to the tip top of my favorite authors list.
However, it wasn't as good as the Scoundrels of St. James books. To me, anyway. Those are really amazing. This is good. Very good.
My problem was a mercenary heroine. She had good reasons, and thanks to Heath's attention to organics and logic, the hero knew her reasons in plenty of time for their love to make sense. So often I'm supposed to expect that the hero will fall in love with a selfish-seeming or rude heroine even though I know he doesn't know the back story. All he sees is the nasty. Not so this time. The hero knows enough to be very interested and the more he learns the deeper he falls. It's lovely.
When the heroine comes around it's poignant and very believable.
There was just something about the setup that didn't really pull me in right away. But that's a relative criticism. I was so in love with the Heath series I just read that this book started at a disadvantage.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Lost Lords trilogy after I read a new release. Heath is quickly climbing to the tip top of my favorite authors list.
December 4, 2022
Archibald Warner, se convierte en el nuevo conde de Sachse. Su nueva condición lo obliga a encontrar esposa y tener un heredero.
Él no esconde su interés por Camilla, la esposa del anterior conde. Pero ella oculta secretos que impiden que los dos puedan tener una relación.
Hacía tiempo que no leía nada de Lorraine Heath y ha sido un placer retomar sus novelas porque si algo me gusta de esta autora es su manera de traernos historias muy entretenidas y con una pluma que me fascina.
“El deseo del conde” es la primera novela de la serie “Los lores perdidos”. Archibald Warner, ha pasado de ser un simple profesor a conde, esa transición se hace más fácil al tener a su lado a Camilla. Ella es la viuda, la mujer del conde anterior que conoce al dedillo todo lo que debe saber sobre la aristocracia y de cómo debe comportarse en sociedad. Arch agradece todo lo que hace Camilla por él, pero no acaba de sentirse a gusto en ese ambiente. Además, siente una atracción por la fría y distante viuda y no esconde sus pasiones.
Camilla es una mujer que oculta secretos, se esconde tras una fachada fría y distante, pero es todo lo contrario. Es una mujer bondadosa y también con grandes expectativas. Ella sueña con convertirse en duquesa y hará lo que sea por conseguirlo... https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...
Él no esconde su interés por Camilla, la esposa del anterior conde. Pero ella oculta secretos que impiden que los dos puedan tener una relación.
Hacía tiempo que no leía nada de Lorraine Heath y ha sido un placer retomar sus novelas porque si algo me gusta de esta autora es su manera de traernos historias muy entretenidas y con una pluma que me fascina.
“El deseo del conde” es la primera novela de la serie “Los lores perdidos”. Archibald Warner, ha pasado de ser un simple profesor a conde, esa transición se hace más fácil al tener a su lado a Camilla. Ella es la viuda, la mujer del conde anterior que conoce al dedillo todo lo que debe saber sobre la aristocracia y de cómo debe comportarse en sociedad. Arch agradece todo lo que hace Camilla por él, pero no acaba de sentirse a gusto en ese ambiente. Además, siente una atracción por la fría y distante viuda y no esconde sus pasiones.
Camilla es una mujer que oculta secretos, se esconde tras una fachada fría y distante, pero es todo lo contrario. Es una mujer bondadosa y también con grandes expectativas. Ella sueña con convertirse en duquesa y hará lo que sea por conseguirlo... https://oceanodelibros.blogspot.com/2...
January 6, 2018
Me ha gustado pero con muchas reservas. La verdad es que ni siquiera sabía qué puntuación darle.
Y es que me ha cansado un poquito Camilla con su obsesión por ser duquesa, chica todo el rato pensando en ello. Me quedo con algunas frases de él, Archie.
Y es que me ha cansado un poquito Camilla con su obsesión por ser duquesa, chica todo el rato pensando en ello. Me quedo con algunas frases de él, Archie.
February 5, 2010
Although this is the first in the "Lost Lords" series, it is also a direct sequel to Love With a Scandalous Lord, which is third in the "Daughters of Fortune" series. Confusing! But many of Heath's books are connected in some way. Anyway, after reading that book, I was very curious about how Heath would turn the secondary characters into hero and heroine: Archie came across as so mild-mannered as to be a bit of a doof and Camilla is not only cold and selfish but does some quite morally repuganant things.
Archie comes out beautifully. Although definitely a "beta" hero, kind and gentle, he has hidden depths of will he hides behind an easy-going facade. He is the perfect hero for a lost, wounded heroine needing great tenderness, which Camilla is. Unfortunately, Camilla's "rehabilitation" is lacking: Heath gives her a tragic past and some tremendous strength in overcoming it, which makes her quite admirable, but then gilds the lily by making her a secret do-gooder, which doesn't gibe with her previous character. And as for the unpleasant things she did in the previous book, those are almost completely glossed over, which is such a cop-out.
So I started out finding this story a bit of a let-down. But as it got more involved, I started to appreciate it for what it did have rather than being annoyed at what it didn't, and got caught up in the sad, sweet romance. I could even forgive the inevitable uber-happy-epilogue, because Heath pulls it off so well and with a few surprises.
Archie comes out beautifully. Although definitely a "beta" hero, kind and gentle, he has hidden depths of will he hides behind an easy-going facade. He is the perfect hero for a lost, wounded heroine needing great tenderness, which Camilla is. Unfortunately, Camilla's "rehabilitation" is lacking: Heath gives her a tragic past and some tremendous strength in overcoming it, which makes her quite admirable, but then gilds the lily by making her a secret do-gooder, which doesn't gibe with her previous character. And as for the unpleasant things she did in the previous book, those are almost completely glossed over, which is such a cop-out.
So I started out finding this story a bit of a let-down. But as it got more involved, I started to appreciate it for what it did have rather than being annoyed at what it didn't, and got caught up in the sad, sweet romance. I could even forgive the inevitable uber-happy-epilogue, because Heath pulls it off so well and with a few surprises.
May 11, 2022
Ik heb de Nederlands talige uitgave gelezen : Alles voor een titel - Candlelight Historische roman 778
De 3 sterren zijn voornamelijk te danken aan het verwarrende begin van dit boek . Er werden personen naast de hoofd personen opgevoerd die ik kennelijk al had moeten kennen .. maar ik ken ze dus niet hè . Niet zo verwonderlijk want het zijn personen die in een andere serie van L.H. de hoofd personen waren maar dat boek ( Love with a Scandalous Lord ) is niet in het Ned. vertaald verschenen .
Het liefdes verhaal gaat ook wat àl te voortvarend van start waardoor ik het wat ongeloofwaardig vond .
De 3 sterren zijn voornamelijk te danken aan het verwarrende begin van dit boek . Er werden personen naast de hoofd personen opgevoerd die ik kennelijk al had moeten kennen .. maar ik ken ze dus niet hè . Niet zo verwonderlijk want het zijn personen die in een andere serie van L.H. de hoofd personen waren maar dat boek ( Love with a Scandalous Lord ) is niet in het Ned. vertaald verschenen .
Het liefdes verhaal gaat ook wat àl te voortvarend van start waardoor ik het wat ongeloofwaardig vond .
January 27, 2020
A bland yet pleasant romance—just like the hero. With a nickname like Archie I thought this man has to be good, and he was: gentle, caring and selfless. In contrast, Camilla possessed all the flaws Archie lacked. The author gave her a tragic past and charitable streak, but I couldn't completely empathize with Camilla because I didn't agree with her big and shallow ambition.
This will probably appeal most to those who like the pairing of a mercenary heroine with a beta hero. If you're a Lorraine Heath fan, read the book for Archie if nothing else.
This will probably appeal most to those who like the pairing of a mercenary heroine with a beta hero. If you're a Lorraine Heath fan, read the book for Archie if nothing else.
April 10, 2014
Dear Camilla,
Is it too much to ask to want to like the heroine of the book? Not only was she snobby, but I could not believe the ignorance of some of the things she said. For example, as the hero is carrying her away from a recently-burning building, she says (and I'm paraphrasing) "Really, you're an Earl. You should not be carrying me. Let one of the servants do it." Walk, Bitch! You're the one who ran out of the house without shoes, now you can walk back without them as well!
I almost liked you when you started talking about being raised in an orphanage and gave your sob story of how you can't read (yeah, saw that coming a mile away), but no, you had to go on about how you needed a duke and how you're barren so you were really doing it for the good of Archie (BTW, WHAT KIND OF A NAME IS ARCHIE???? - No sex appeal, bad form Ms. Heath).
Thirdly, how do you suddenly become fertile after one night with your husband? Yes, I understand giving a little truth to old wives' tales gives an historical story some depth and mystique, but does it have to be so blatantly obvious. What were your eggs saying? 'Oh, thank god Archie's sperm is here, we didn't much like the other guy." How do you go from absolutely no children from a 14 year marriage, to four kids in an 8 year marriage?!?!?!?! WTF!!!!!
Finally, I usually love when a character has a deep dark secret like she can't read. But do you have to have thoughts like "(I) have a feeling teachers are usually not as intimate with their students as (Archie) is with (me)." Then maybe you should have started sleeping with him BEFORE he became your teacher. Is that all it takes to get into your pants (or in your case, your 'many layers of feminine clothing'), just teach you the alphabet and you screw him from A to Z?
And don't even get me started on you and that Duke of Harrington. Is there a prequel to your story because I feel like I stepped into Act III of a 5 Act Opera and the interesting characters' story has already up and left. You start off not wanting to talk to Lydia at all, but by the end of the book, you act as if you two went out to tea together all the time. Isn't she the one who stole your past fiance? Can I see a little humanity here. Being human means being ugly at times, not just freezing up as the 'ice countess'. Plus, why did you have so much influence with the 'Marlborough House Set' (Like I didn't hear those three words together often enough) when your husband was so hated by everyone? Plus, all your charity work was anonymous so how could anyone know what you were doing?
By the way, you are so lucky that Thomas came in to claim his rightful place as Earl because he was the only interesting character in the book!
Sincerely,
An Annoyed (and yet slightly proud of herself for writing all this) Reader
Is it too much to ask to want to like the heroine of the book? Not only was she snobby, but I could not believe the ignorance of some of the things she said. For example, as the hero is carrying her away from a recently-burning building, she says (and I'm paraphrasing) "Really, you're an Earl. You should not be carrying me. Let one of the servants do it." Walk, Bitch! You're the one who ran out of the house without shoes, now you can walk back without them as well!
I almost liked you when you started talking about being raised in an orphanage and gave your sob story of how you can't read (yeah, saw that coming a mile away), but no, you had to go on about how you needed a duke and how you're barren so you were really doing it for the good of Archie (BTW, WHAT KIND OF A NAME IS ARCHIE???? - No sex appeal, bad form Ms. Heath).
Thirdly, how do you suddenly become fertile after one night with your husband? Yes, I understand giving a little truth to old wives' tales gives an historical story some depth and mystique, but does it have to be so blatantly obvious. What were your eggs saying? 'Oh, thank god Archie's sperm is here, we didn't much like the other guy." How do you go from absolutely no children from a 14 year marriage, to four kids in an 8 year marriage?!?!?!?! WTF!!!!!
Finally, I usually love when a character has a deep dark secret like she can't read. But do you have to have thoughts like "(I) have a feeling teachers are usually not as intimate with their students as (Archie) is with (me)." Then maybe you should have started sleeping with him BEFORE he became your teacher. Is that all it takes to get into your pants (or in your case, your 'many layers of feminine clothing'), just teach you the alphabet and you screw him from A to Z?
And don't even get me started on you and that Duke of Harrington. Is there a prequel to your story because I feel like I stepped into Act III of a 5 Act Opera and the interesting characters' story has already up and left. You start off not wanting to talk to Lydia at all, but by the end of the book, you act as if you two went out to tea together all the time. Isn't she the one who stole your past fiance? Can I see a little humanity here. Being human means being ugly at times, not just freezing up as the 'ice countess'. Plus, why did you have so much influence with the 'Marlborough House Set' (Like I didn't hear those three words together often enough) when your husband was so hated by everyone? Plus, all your charity work was anonymous so how could anyone know what you were doing?
By the way, you are so lucky that Thomas came in to claim his rightful place as Earl because he was the only interesting character in the book!
Sincerely,
An Annoyed (and yet slightly proud of herself for writing all this) Reader
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2012
QUICK TAKE:
Another very fine read from Lorraine Heath. Instead of the hero having inner scars and a tortured past, this time it is the heroine. Lady Camilla, widow of the old earl, has taken Archibald Warner under her wing and is teaching him the ins and outs of the ton and being an earl. Archie is a school master and a wonderful hero. He is open, honest, honorable and sexy as all get out. He hides nothing. And coaxing Camilla out from behind her frosty defenses is an arduous task. Getting her to reveal her secrets is even more of a challenge. Their romance is hot, real and touching. I also liked the ending, it was a complete surprise. I loved Archie, nothing like a sexy school master who is a master in the bedroom~ ;D
Another very fine read from Lorraine Heath. Instead of the hero having inner scars and a tortured past, this time it is the heroine. Lady Camilla, widow of the old earl, has taken Archibald Warner under her wing and is teaching him the ins and outs of the ton and being an earl. Archie is a school master and a wonderful hero. He is open, honest, honorable and sexy as all get out. He hides nothing. And coaxing Camilla out from behind her frosty defenses is an arduous task. Getting her to reveal her secrets is even more of a challenge. Their romance is hot, real and touching. I also liked the ending, it was a complete surprise. I loved Archie, nothing like a sexy school master who is a master in the bedroom~ ;D
January 26, 2011
I am so pleased! Looks like Heath is becoming an author I enjoy reading! (It looks as if I may have to break down and check out her Texas Rogues series (even though I am not a fan of American romances).) Archibald Warner, the current Earl of Sasche (pronounced Saxee if you can believe it) is so romantic and just the right balance of dangerous and kind. Countess Camilla Warner (the previous earl's widow) is just the right balance of heart and iciness. I loved seeing their relationship unfold and blossom. I fell in love with Arch and even though the twist wasn't what I expected, I appreciated what it brought to the story. Lovely!
November 8, 2011
Quite a book... The Hero and Heroine each have their unique flaws. And I identified with the Heroine, Camilla, in ways I'd never have imagined before.
Camilla has to keep tight control over herself and her environment -- the perfect hostess, the perfect widow, the perfect everything. Because if she lets her guard down, she fears the ton will learn her secrets.
Arch was a schoolteacher before finding himself the 7th Earl. He'd never even met the 6th Earl, an old man who, by all accounts, was a monster. Arch has a curiosity for life. By nature, Arch looks for the good and the fun... he believes in true love. Arch is everything that the ton tries to stifle. And now that he's an earl, Arch feels he's in-between worlds: in his hometown, everyone treats as an earl, not as the man they grew up with and knew; yet Arch doesn't quite fit the confines and formality of the ton.
Camilla is trying to teach Arch everything he needs to know to succeed. And she's trying to find him a wife - to his specifications. Camilla has determined that she's after a duke. The 6th earl simply didn't provide anything for her at his death (so like the awful man), and she doesn't want to count on Arch's good will forever.
The beauty and fascination of this book is reading how Arch pursues and unfolds Camilla -- how he lightens her up, makes her laugh, helps her to see that life is about more than titles and position.
What I wasn't so sure about was the way that the two stumbled and then ran into a head-long affair that lasted quite awhile. I can see that Camilla wanted to experience love and desire and satisfying intimacy with a man, unsure that she'd be able to have that again. But even she knew that there was heartbreak in store. Could she just not say no? And Arch knew better, too. I guess the heart wants what the heart wants.
My only other nit was that I literally had to read ahead a few times, because the "drama" of Camilla's secrets was almost overplayed... almost. I had to read ahead to be certain that I would still care when the secret was revealed.
Intriguing story with interesting characters. And an unexpected twist or two in the mix. A lovely romance about what we all dream of: unconditional love that sees beyond our past, our scars, our fears, our secrets... and loves us anyway. Loves us fiercer and more. Seeks justice for our pains and hurts. Believes in us, willingly provides support and more for us. And asks only that we offer our own love in return. Beautiful!
Camilla has to keep tight control over herself and her environment -- the perfect hostess, the perfect widow, the perfect everything. Because if she lets her guard down, she fears the ton will learn her secrets.
Arch was a schoolteacher before finding himself the 7th Earl. He'd never even met the 6th Earl, an old man who, by all accounts, was a monster. Arch has a curiosity for life. By nature, Arch looks for the good and the fun... he believes in true love. Arch is everything that the ton tries to stifle. And now that he's an earl, Arch feels he's in-between worlds: in his hometown, everyone treats as an earl, not as the man they grew up with and knew; yet Arch doesn't quite fit the confines and formality of the ton.
Camilla is trying to teach Arch everything he needs to know to succeed. And she's trying to find him a wife - to his specifications. Camilla has determined that she's after a duke. The 6th earl simply didn't provide anything for her at his death (so like the awful man), and she doesn't want to count on Arch's good will forever.
The beauty and fascination of this book is reading how Arch pursues and unfolds Camilla -- how he lightens her up, makes her laugh, helps her to see that life is about more than titles and position.
What I wasn't so sure about was the way that the two stumbled and then ran into a head-long affair that lasted quite awhile. I can see that Camilla wanted to experience love and desire and satisfying intimacy with a man, unsure that she'd be able to have that again. But even she knew that there was heartbreak in store. Could she just not say no? And Arch knew better, too. I guess the heart wants what the heart wants.
My only other nit was that I literally had to read ahead a few times, because the "drama" of Camilla's secrets was almost overplayed... almost. I had to read ahead to be certain that I would still care when the secret was revealed.
Intriguing story with interesting characters. And an unexpected twist or two in the mix. A lovely romance about what we all dream of: unconditional love that sees beyond our past, our scars, our fears, our secrets... and loves us anyway. Loves us fiercer and more. Seeks justice for our pains and hurts. Believes in us, willingly provides support and more for us. And asks only that we offer our own love in return. Beautiful!
April 3, 2012
Camilla, Countess of Sachse, is widowed and can only cry with relief at the death of her viciously brutal, aged husband. She will now endeavor to school the new Earl in the ways of the aristocracy and aide her husband's heir and distant cousin in his efforts to find a wife, even if it is not something he desires. Her confidence and grace, not to mention popularity with the Marlboro Set, will go far in helping the new Earl to live up to his noble responsibilities while setting her free to search for her own Duke and future spouse. However, Camilla must keep her heart and secrets locked away from the dashing Earl to protect her future and the only thing of value she claims, her position and respectability. She has sworn to never return to the common, poverty-stricken background of her youth and with the new Earl lies only heartbreak. Can she deny her heart while finding the only pleasure she has ever known in the arms of the Earl of Sachse?
Lorraine Heath has delivered a wildly passionate novel while at the same time illustrating real social injustices within its pages that continue to exist today. I fully admit the delicious enjoyment of the scenes of passion and love. However, this story caused for deeper speculation on moral social issues that I concluded are timeless. As a reader, I walked away from this story not only with a sense of pleasure, but also charitable duty. I will only say that a realization struck of the blessings I receive everyday in the seemingly simple act of reading a book. Pick this one up. You won't be sorry.
Lorraine Heath has delivered a wildly passionate novel while at the same time illustrating real social injustices within its pages that continue to exist today. I fully admit the delicious enjoyment of the scenes of passion and love. However, this story caused for deeper speculation on moral social issues that I concluded are timeless. As a reader, I walked away from this story not only with a sense of pleasure, but also charitable duty. I will only say that a realization struck of the blessings I receive everyday in the seemingly simple act of reading a book. Pick this one up. You won't be sorry.
October 20, 2009
Once again, Lorraine Heath did it.
Seriously this one tops my list. I guess it's better if you would read the love with the scandalous lord because you'll understand Camilla's personality more. I find her quite villainous in Love with the Scandalous Lord but in the end I found out that she was a victim and what had become of her is the effect of her past.
In this book it tells how the story goes between Archie and Camilla after the LwtSL and how they fell in love with each other.
I really like the plot where in the hero/heroine appears to be a villain but when love struck them it changes them completely. I like it because it shows how powerful love can be and how it can change a person and this book tells that.
Camilla might appear snob but you'll understand her and I think you wouldn't even be bothered by it. Archie, omg.. Archie is one of the many heroes I love because you see here he wanted to show Camilla what love is and how it can make her happy than her earning a higher title. Also, this story is not the usual plot where in the hero is the one in need of love because Archie believes in love while the Camilla does not.
This book made me tear up in some part and this one would put you up in a rollercoaster ride, it was thrilling and you wouldn't even want to put it down. It was worth reading. You'll love it as I did.
Seriously this one tops my list. I guess it's better if you would read the love with the scandalous lord because you'll understand Camilla's personality more. I find her quite villainous in Love with the Scandalous Lord but in the end I found out that she was a victim and what had become of her is the effect of her past.
In this book it tells how the story goes between Archie and Camilla after the LwtSL and how they fell in love with each other.
I really like the plot where in the hero/heroine appears to be a villain but when love struck them it changes them completely. I like it because it shows how powerful love can be and how it can change a person and this book tells that.
Camilla might appear snob but you'll understand her and I think you wouldn't even be bothered by it. Archie, omg.. Archie is one of the many heroes I love because you see here he wanted to show Camilla what love is and how it can make her happy than her earning a higher title. Also, this story is not the usual plot where in the hero is the one in need of love because Archie believes in love while the Camilla does not.
This book made me tear up in some part and this one would put you up in a rollercoaster ride, it was thrilling and you wouldn't even want to put it down. It was worth reading. You'll love it as I did.
December 16, 2014
Novedad en que no hay amor a primera vista ni se encuentran en un salón. Ella es la joven viuda del antiguo conde y ahora tiene que vivir y enseñar al nuevo conde todo lo necesario para moverse en ese tipo de sociedad.
Camila tiene claro lo que quiere y no es nada romántico, ella quiere asegurar su futuro a cualquier costo ya que el antiguo conde era violento y horrible con ella.
Por otro lado Archi, el nuevo conde es un chico de pueblo, sencillo, humilde y nada a gusto rodeado de tanto lujo y puntilla. Él decide que la quiere a ella cuando empieza a descubrir las razones por las que ella va en busca de un nuevo marido con dinero y quien se esconde debajo de capas y capas de tela cara.
La lucha entre la cabeza y el corazón, lo que debes y quieres.
Negativo? Como suele pasar un final con pinzas, traído de debajo de la manga sin sentido alguno y sin dar la más mínima pista o encaminar la historia.
PD: me encanto en punto de que el sea profesor y ella no sepa leer.
***perdón por lo mal escrito, review desde el móvil XD ***
Camila tiene claro lo que quiere y no es nada romántico, ella quiere asegurar su futuro a cualquier costo ya que el antiguo conde era violento y horrible con ella.
Por otro lado Archi, el nuevo conde es un chico de pueblo, sencillo, humilde y nada a gusto rodeado de tanto lujo y puntilla. Él decide que la quiere a ella cuando empieza a descubrir las razones por las que ella va en busca de un nuevo marido con dinero y quien se esconde debajo de capas y capas de tela cara.
La lucha entre la cabeza y el corazón, lo que debes y quieres.
Negativo? Como suele pasar un final con pinzas, traído de debajo de la manga sin sentido alguno y sin dar la más mínima pista o encaminar la historia.
PD: me encanto en punto de que el sea profesor y ella no sepa leer.
***perdón por lo mal escrito, review desde el móvil XD ***
December 11, 2023
2.5/5. Honestly, this was very dull. I found all the characters boring and the relationship unworthy of my time. The book opens in the middle of a story of its own. We see no development of either character's feelings and we are supposed to feel for the hero and his unrequited feelings for the heroine. Overall, it just made for an uninteresting story. The hero was nice enough and the heroine was a bit feisty at first which was interesting but after a few chapters, it became old the constant back and forth. There were no struggles except the heroine being embarrassed about not being able to read and being barren which the hero makes clear right away that he doesn't care. This could've been shortened into a novella and would even be more interesting that way. Also, can we stop writing books where the main character can't have children but then magically has them at the end?
March 27, 2023
The book was fine if a little slow, but what I hate about it was for most of the book she told Archie repeatedly that one of the reasons she couldn't be with him was because she couldn't have kids and suddenly in the epilogue she has five kids? I mean if you want to talk about such a sensitive topic the least you could have done is stuck to the plot point. Instead the author could have shown them happy with their nieces and nephews or is it really necessary to Make them parents as if that was the only important thing in a long-term relationship/marriage
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2014
Cortito... tanto que me ha parecido que me saltaba parte de libro... sobre todo al final, realmete repentino.
A pesar de eso, y de que algunas escenas me han resultado algo forzadas, la historia es muy bonita.
Se agradece el giro final
A pesar de eso, y de que algunas escenas me han resultado algo forzadas, la historia es muy bonita.
Se agradece el giro final
April 9, 2016
Es un libro divertido aunque con un trasfondo duro para el personaje femenino... me ha gustado el final por que no es tipico final de estos libros... recomendable
January 24, 2021
Delightful love story
5 stars
Archibald Warner was a simple teacher until a death elevated him to the new Earl of Sachse. With the rules of the ton overwhelming him, Arch is glad to have Camilla, the former Earl's young widow to help tutor him through the pitfalls of high society and help find him the perfect bride.
But Arch is convinced that he has found the perfect bride in Camilla. He seduces her with his kisses and tempts her with his touch yet she still resists his advances. When Camilla's past comes to light and Arch uncovers the secrets that haunt her eyes, he must make a decision that will change their lives forever.
I have enjoyed Lorraine Heath's books before and this book just reminded me of what a good storyteller she is. As seems to be the norm for Heath, the book is very character driven with the main story being about how Arch and Camilla interact with each other and fall in love.
The love story is very emotional and I just adored both Arch and Camilla. Arch is a wonderful hero - determined to do the right thing while battling his desires for Camilla. Camilla herself was the standout character for me as she was both strong willed while also being so vulnerable and in need of the love of a good man. Together the pair are perfect for each other and the ending, or more importantly the epilogue, is just dreamy!
This book is the first in a trilogy (coming before A Matter of Temptation and Promise Me Forever) but apparently both Arch and Camilla first appeared in Heath's Love With a Scandalous Lord. Despite this, the books do appear to all stand alone though so there's no need to read them in order.
Overall this is a really well written, emotional and satisfying love story that I'm sure you will really enjoy - I definitely did. 5 stars.
September 22, 2022
Lorraine Heath is a master of angst.
This book brought me so much pain but it was so worth it - the story was mostly character driven and it brought so many beautiful moments. It was a story about overcoming trauma, longing and loneliness. The way it encompassed the harsh reality of women of that period brought a slight bitterness on the pages as you read them.
Camilla was a fantastic heroine - hardened by life and her ex husband she turned to ice. She’s pragmatic and keeps her courtesy as an armor she wields in the ballrooms and gatherings of elites. Her heart is driven by her need of getting a name for herself and a bit of low self esteem. She’s such a dear woman to me, her flaws and her psychological battles were so sound and relevant throughout the whole storyline. She also harbours secrets that she’s ashamed of. In her mind she only can trust herself - until Archie cracks her shield time after time.
What a pair they are. So, so agonisingly broken and tender - they hurt each other so many times only to scatter the halves of their hearts and run to each other. Their scenes were so angsty and beautifully written that I could scrap a whole page of quotes from their dialogues.
I loved it - the slow burn and slow pace really brought up the psychological aspect of the story and I enjoyed that very much.
This book brought me so much pain but it was so worth it - the story was mostly character driven and it brought so many beautiful moments. It was a story about overcoming trauma, longing and loneliness. The way it encompassed the harsh reality of women of that period brought a slight bitterness on the pages as you read them.
Camilla was a fantastic heroine - hardened by life and her ex husband she turned to ice. She’s pragmatic and keeps her courtesy as an armor she wields in the ballrooms and gatherings of elites. Her heart is driven by her need of getting a name for herself and a bit of low self esteem. She’s such a dear woman to me, her flaws and her psychological battles were so sound and relevant throughout the whole storyline. She also harbours secrets that she’s ashamed of. In her mind she only can trust herself - until Archie cracks her shield time after time.
What a pair they are. So, so agonisingly broken and tender - they hurt each other so many times only to scatter the halves of their hearts and run to each other. Their scenes were so angsty and beautifully written that I could scrap a whole page of quotes from their dialogues.
I loved it - the slow burn and slow pace really brought up the psychological aspect of the story and I enjoyed that very much.
March 4, 2022
4.5 rounded up
Read half at bedtime, and half when I woke up. Cried buckets. Lorraine Heath always gets me in the feels. I always find her relationships so believable. This was a gem of a find!
Read half at bedtime, and half when I woke up. Cried buckets. Lorraine Heath always gets me in the feels. I always find her relationships so believable. This was a gem of a find!
July 13, 2015
I'm a big fan of Lorraine Heath's later works so I decided to give her earlier publications a try. "As an Earl Desires" was so difficult for me to sit through because I was constantly struggling with wanting to give up on the book - the first chapter did not draw me in, I did not like either the hero or the heroine, and I did not like the melodramatic writing style. The fact that I did not read the original series that this spun-off from did not help matters either.
Camilla is the recently widowed Countess of Sasche. Having risen from poorer circumstances through marriage at a very young age, she values rank above all else to justify her suffering through the abuse of her deceased husband. Archie is the newly minted Earl of Sasche, a teacher from the country who is unfamiliar and uncomfortable with the privileged life. As he steps into the shoes of his distant cousin, he finds himself attracted to the icy countess who acts as his guide to the aristocratic life. Of course, there are a few issues standing in the way of their chance for happily ever after:
1. Camilla is barren, having not been able to sire an heir for the last earl, and truly believes that it is Archie's duty to have an heir (and a spare) with his new position in Society.
2. Camilla is illiterate and too proud to let anyone in on this secret. She fears that Archie may find out the more time she spends with him.
3. Camilla is also hiding the physical marks of abuse that the previous earl had left.
4. Camilla keeps telling Archie that rank is the only thing that matters to her and she is off to seduce a well-situated duke into marrying her. One that does not require any more children.
As you can see, the resistance in the relationship is rather one-sided. I found their interactions to be painful to watch and a lot of the turn of events to be quite unbelievable (especially their time in Heatherton because it is so out of character for her). They are both so angsty and melodramatic throughout the entire story that I was so tempted to write it off and stop reading. Unfortunately, my OCD would always got the best of me and I begrudgingly completed it. Needless to say I will not be following up with the rest of the series. A word of warning: stick to her newer publications!
Camilla is the recently widowed Countess of Sasche. Having risen from poorer circumstances through marriage at a very young age, she values rank above all else to justify her suffering through the abuse of her deceased husband. Archie is the newly minted Earl of Sasche, a teacher from the country who is unfamiliar and uncomfortable with the privileged life. As he steps into the shoes of his distant cousin, he finds himself attracted to the icy countess who acts as his guide to the aristocratic life. Of course, there are a few issues standing in the way of their chance for happily ever after:
1. Camilla is barren, having not been able to sire an heir for the last earl, and truly believes that it is Archie's duty to have an heir (and a spare) with his new position in Society.
2. Camilla is illiterate and too proud to let anyone in on this secret. She fears that Archie may find out the more time she spends with him.
3. Camilla is also hiding the physical marks of abuse that the previous earl had left.
4. Camilla keeps telling Archie that rank is the only thing that matters to her and she is off to seduce a well-situated duke into marrying her. One that does not require any more children.
As you can see, the resistance in the relationship is rather one-sided. I found their interactions to be painful to watch and a lot of the turn of events to be quite unbelievable (especially their time in Heatherton because it is so out of character for her). They are both so angsty and melodramatic throughout the entire story that I was so tempted to write it off and stop reading. Unfortunately, my OCD would always got the best of me and I begrudgingly completed it. Needless to say I will not be following up with the rest of the series. A word of warning: stick to her newer publications!
January 23, 2025
I randomly found this at a book sale and automatically picked it up because I love me some Lorraine Heath. This was the first in a new series, but it's apparently a direct sequel to a book I haven't read yet in a separate collection. It's a spinoff of a spinoff, people! That perfectly explains why I was missing so much backstory and it felt like I was skipped 30 pages at the beginning. I was walking into a new scenario without any proper context. As an Earl Desires focuses on a widower on the hunt to find a bride for his new heir, the Earl of Sachse. Bruh, his name was Archibald. I absolutely loathe bride hunts when the perfect choice is the one compiling the list. There was no reason why Camilla couldn't marry him herself. This took me two weeks to read this, which is slow compared to my usual Lightning McQueen breakneck pace. I liked the rollerskating in a historical setting and I love an illiterate character (I know I'm a freak). I am definitely going to go back and finish the Daughters of Fortune series to see what I missed. I love how LH collections are interconnected but it can be tricky to keep them straight. I'm completing her backlogs little by little and I don't want the fun to end!
March 4, 2017
I was skeptical at first, since Camilla is a manipulative and merciless villainess who schemes to take advantage of Rhys Rhodes' love for his heroine in Love with a Scandalous Lord. I wondered if the author would address her actions or have her show remorse or something. Well - this basically pretends that her actions had little or no bearing on anybody in the previous book. In fact, she seems like a completely different person in this one. So I loved it!
Arch was the best hero ever! So patient and careful with Camilla who has more than enough reason to be wary around men. I also did not expect the little twist at the end and the eventual conclusion. I honestly didn't think it would turn out that way. So Kudos to Lorraine Heath, because unpredictability in a romance novel is a very special accomplishment. I love that they didn't struggle to fall in love, but rather they struggled to make it work once they did.
Arch was the best hero ever! So patient and careful with Camilla who has more than enough reason to be wary around men. I also did not expect the little twist at the end and the eventual conclusion. I honestly didn't think it would turn out that way. So Kudos to Lorraine Heath, because unpredictability in a romance novel is a very special accomplishment. I love that they didn't struggle to fall in love, but rather they struggled to make it work once they did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2017
Certo certo…..lui è dolcissimo, bellissimo e con una pazienza infinita. Per questi motivi ho provato per lui l’interesse sessuale che provo per gente come Emilio Fede. Nulla. Non ho provato nulla, Camilla per dio tienitelo.
E parliamo di te, cara Camilla e di quanto sai essere una palla al cazzo, tu….la tua freddezza, i tuoi silenzi, i tuoi fottutissimi segreti e la tua tanto sbandierata sterilità che poi, stranissimissimissimo, non esiste ma è solo una proiezione mentale ma tu ce la meni per tutto il libro “Non te la dò perchè non posso avere figli”, “Oddio quanto mi pesa non poter avere figli”, “Nessuno mi vuole perchè non posso avere figli”….
E che palle!!!!!!!!!!!
Perchè almeno fosse vero uno dice….beh, poveretta, lei ci teneva tanto…ma no. Già dalle prime righe l’ho inquadrata, la vittimista, quella che le ha tutte lei le sfighe ed invece è figa, ricca, traumatizzata (nei romance questo attizza un uomo come non mai) e fertile come è fertile la terra concimata con il letame. Per questo io, preventivamente, l’ho detestata. E non sono stata smentita nemmeno lontanamente.
continua su
https://laleggivora.wordpress.com/201...
E parliamo di te, cara Camilla e di quanto sai essere una palla al cazzo, tu….la tua freddezza, i tuoi silenzi, i tuoi fottutissimi segreti e la tua tanto sbandierata sterilità che poi, stranissimissimissimo, non esiste ma è solo una proiezione mentale ma tu ce la meni per tutto il libro “Non te la dò perchè non posso avere figli”, “Oddio quanto mi pesa non poter avere figli”, “Nessuno mi vuole perchè non posso avere figli”….
E che palle!!!!!!!!!!!
Perchè almeno fosse vero uno dice….beh, poveretta, lei ci teneva tanto…ma no. Già dalle prime righe l’ho inquadrata, la vittimista, quella che le ha tutte lei le sfighe ed invece è figa, ricca, traumatizzata (nei romance questo attizza un uomo come non mai) e fertile come è fertile la terra concimata con il letame. Per questo io, preventivamente, l’ho detestata. E non sono stata smentita nemmeno lontanamente.
continua su
https://laleggivora.wordpress.com/201...
January 16, 2013
2,5 ajah, coz bacanya loncat-loncat.
- Begitu buka bab I, langsung kaget coz gak ada pengenalan karakter ato latar belakang, dua tokoh utamanya langsung saling kenal and bercakap-cakap akhrab. Ternyata Archie and Camilla sebelumnya udah diperkenalkan di buku Love With A Scandalous Lord (Daughters Of Fortune, #3). Dan buku model njujug gini selalu sukses bikin aku ilpil.
*gak bisa disalahin bukunya, salahkan penerbitnya yg gak urut ngeluarin bukunya*
- Aku gak suka Camilla. Dunno why. Mungkin karena maksa-maksa Archie segera cari istri (yg ujung-ujungnya demi kepentingan Camilla sendiri). Bukannya Archie baru sebentar jadi Earl ya, kok diburu-buru buat nyiapin pewaris sih. Biarkan dia nyantai dulu menikmati gelar baru napa?
- Lebih penasaran sama kisahnya Rhys and Lidya.
- Begitu pewaris resmi Earl Sachse muncul, aku cuma bisa bilang, "Rasain lu." baik ke Camilla maupun ke Archie.
*duh, jahatnya daku*
- Dari segi cerita, kayaknya memang kurang greget/menggigit.
- Begitu buka bab I, langsung kaget coz gak ada pengenalan karakter ato latar belakang, dua tokoh utamanya langsung saling kenal and bercakap-cakap akhrab. Ternyata Archie and Camilla sebelumnya udah diperkenalkan di buku Love With A Scandalous Lord (Daughters Of Fortune, #3). Dan buku model njujug gini selalu sukses bikin aku ilpil.
*gak bisa disalahin bukunya, salahkan penerbitnya yg gak urut ngeluarin bukunya*
- Aku gak suka Camilla. Dunno why. Mungkin karena maksa-maksa Archie segera cari istri (yg ujung-ujungnya demi kepentingan Camilla sendiri). Bukannya Archie baru sebentar jadi Earl ya, kok diburu-buru buat nyiapin pewaris sih. Biarkan dia nyantai dulu menikmati gelar baru napa?
- Lebih penasaran sama kisahnya Rhys and Lidya.
- Begitu pewaris resmi Earl Sachse muncul, aku cuma bisa bilang, "Rasain lu." baik ke Camilla maupun ke Archie.
*duh, jahatnya daku*
- Dari segi cerita, kayaknya memang kurang greget/menggigit.
January 27, 2011
Archie Warner, the new Earl of Sachse is a wonderful hero. I had a bit of trouble with Camilla, Lady Sachse’s character though, but I did come to warm to her as the book went on.
Camilla was unhappily married to the cruel, old Earl and has taken on the task of training the new Earl in the ways of the ton. Archie has inherited from a distant cousin and was not expecting this new role and was quite happy being a school teacher in the country, he has difficulty coming to terms with his new status. Camilla is also trying to find him a wife and herself a duke. After they became intimate I did not like that she still wanted the matchmaking she was planning to continue.
I did quite enjoyed the book and I even had some tears. The ending was a surprise to me but well done.
This is my first Lorraine Heath novel and I will be reading more. It did start off as a 4 but went to a 5.
Camilla was unhappily married to the cruel, old Earl and has taken on the task of training the new Earl in the ways of the ton. Archie has inherited from a distant cousin and was not expecting this new role and was quite happy being a school teacher in the country, he has difficulty coming to terms with his new status. Camilla is also trying to find him a wife and herself a duke. After they became intimate I did not like that she still wanted the matchmaking she was planning to continue.
I did quite enjoyed the book and I even had some tears. The ending was a surprise to me but well done.
This is my first Lorraine Heath novel and I will be reading more. It did start off as a 4 but went to a 5.
October 10, 2011
This is a lovely book. The characters of Arch and Camilla are well-drawn and likable; each is an individual strong in beliefs and morality, yet forced by Fate into an arrangement which, though enjoyable in the moment, neither would never have entered if they could have prevented it. Their love, and their recognizing the useless of it all and the inevitability of what is going to happen, adds a tinge of impending disaster to the entire story. The discovery of the letter and what it means to everyone involved breaks like a ray of sunshine through a stormcloud. Although this novel is a stand-alone, it might be hoped that there’s a sequel somewhere along the line, for the ramifications of the ending beg to be told, as well as the fate of the earldom.
For a story beautiful in its writing, and intriguing in its premise, As An Earl Desires is a winner!
For a story beautiful in its writing, and intriguing in its premise, As An Earl Desires is a winner!
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