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Taming the Hobbs #2
The Earl’s Wicked Wish
If she asked for the stars, he would have brought down the whole sky…
Evelyn’s reputation got destroyed the day her ex-betrothed abandoned her and decided to court her best friend. And it might have been a year since then, but Evelyn can finally get her by faking a betrothal with the most powerful Earl of the ton.
Nobody can find the Earl of Beckingsale easily. John avoids the ton like the plague, but his mind has been obsessed with the clumsy lady he helped one night in his garden. And his wish to see her again is granted exactly one year later…When he can finally make her his.
*If you like a realistic yet steamy depiction of the Regency and Victorian era, then The Earl’s Wicked Wish is the novel for you.
An enchanting regency romance of 80,000 words (around 400 pages), written by Daphne Byrne and published by Cobalt Fairy.
No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.
Get "The Earl’s Wicked Wish" today to discover Daphne's splendid new story!
Evelyn’s reputation got destroyed the day her ex-betrothed abandoned her and decided to court her best friend. And it might have been a year since then, but Evelyn can finally get her by faking a betrothal with the most powerful Earl of the ton.
Nobody can find the Earl of Beckingsale easily. John avoids the ton like the plague, but his mind has been obsessed with the clumsy lady he helped one night in his garden. And his wish to see her again is granted exactly one year later…When he can finally make her his.
*If you like a realistic yet steamy depiction of the Regency and Victorian era, then The Earl’s Wicked Wish is the novel for you.
An enchanting regency romance of 80,000 words (around 400 pages), written by Daphne Byrne and published by Cobalt Fairy.
No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.
Get "The Earl’s Wicked Wish" today to discover Daphne's splendid new story!
- GenresHistorical Romance
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 22, 2022
176 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 31, 2022
John and his sweet lady.
What a delightfully wicked book this author has given her reader! With some wonderful steam and a few great twists this reader was captivated by the tale. Would they get their HEA? This book was such fun to read. I must say Achilles sold the show.
What a delightfully wicked book this author has given her reader! With some wonderful steam and a few great twists this reader was captivated by the tale. Would they get their HEA? This book was such fun to read. I must say Achilles sold the show.
February 15, 2023
I do not recall the last time I smiled from virtual cover to cover when I read a book until this past Sunday when I pulled up The Earl's Wicked Wish on my Kindle App. I found the novel utterly delightful, charming and heartwarming.
The Earl is bookish, a bit of an introvert and after an accidental meeting with the heroine becomes quite smitten. On the other hand, due to the nature of their first meeting she has no idea who he was until later on in the book. In my opinion, he is written as such an affable fellow it is hard not to cheer for him and smile at his running narrative.
The heroine embraces her thirst for knowledge and knows she is considered a bluestocking by the ton. The drama in their love story evolves from the consequences of the heroine trying to re-enter society after her ex jilts her. She is a bit quirky with a bit of spunk. She didn't endear herself to me quite like the Earl but I still found her character enjoyable.
The reason I deducted a star is because the plot is driven by the backstory. The heroine was jilted which precipitated their love story. However, the angst and growth in the relationship comes late in the novel and from an unlikely source who suddenly drives the drama leading to the eventual HEA. There is no lead up and the motivation on the part of the unlikely source and sidekicks are weak. Slightly vague on my part, but no spoilers!
All said, I had a smile on my face from cover to cover and chuckled throughout the novel. I have some personal quibbles with the depiction of the heroine's thoughts/actions of the time period vs modern day which is evident throughout the story. It is a quick, light read. Steam level -- 3.5 due to lusty thoughts, kissing, and sex scene. I recommend it and I know I'll re-read this again in the future.
I received an ARC. This review is voluntary and reflects my reflections and opinion on the novel.
The Earl is bookish, a bit of an introvert and after an accidental meeting with the heroine becomes quite smitten. On the other hand, due to the nature of their first meeting she has no idea who he was until later on in the book. In my opinion, he is written as such an affable fellow it is hard not to cheer for him and smile at his running narrative.
The heroine embraces her thirst for knowledge and knows she is considered a bluestocking by the ton. The drama in their love story evolves from the consequences of the heroine trying to re-enter society after her ex jilts her. She is a bit quirky with a bit of spunk. She didn't endear herself to me quite like the Earl but I still found her character enjoyable.
The reason I deducted a star is because the plot is driven by the backstory. The heroine was jilted which precipitated their love story. However, the angst and growth in the relationship comes late in the novel and from an unlikely source who suddenly drives the drama leading to the eventual HEA. There is no lead up and the motivation on the part of the unlikely source and sidekicks are weak. Slightly vague on my part, but no spoilers!
All said, I had a smile on my face from cover to cover and chuckled throughout the novel. I have some personal quibbles with the depiction of the heroine's thoughts/actions of the time period vs modern day which is evident throughout the story. It is a quick, light read. Steam level -- 3.5 due to lusty thoughts, kissing, and sex scene. I recommend it and I know I'll re-read this again in the future.
I received an ARC. This review is voluntary and reflects my reflections and opinion on the novel.
January 12, 2023
WHO CAN YOU TRUST ALL HE HAS IS A NAME
LADY EVELYN - was known for her strange ways she was interested in books regarding horticulture and healing remedies of plants.
At a ball, Evelyn's betrothed enters with Sophia her best friend announces he is marrying her.
The gossip starts Evelyn embarrassed rushes into the gardens upset.
JOHN EARL OF BECKINGSALE - Is hiding in the gardens from his mother who has arranged the ball in an attempt to find him a wife. He loves books, his mind is always searching for new knowledge has no intention of marrying as this will take him from his books and travels.
Suddenly a young lady with her head down rushes into him he catches her, she cannot see as there is something in her eyes, they have a strange conversation she makes him laugh John has never met anyone like her, he helps clear her eyes, before she can see him her mother calls her "Evelyn," ( HER PARENTS TAKE HER HOME AS THE GOSSIPS HAVE STARTED THEY ARE SHUNNED FROM SOCIETY).
John never stopped looking for her at every ball or society outing - all he had was a name.
ONE YEAR LATER - her first time in society for a year Evelyn hears some cruel people talk as she passes, she goes outside a man asks if she is ok her mother can't find her, worried she calls her name she rushed out He says "it's her" runs after her she has gone.
WELL THIS IS BRILLIANT YOU NEED TO READ IT YOU MIGHT THINK I HAVE GIVEN SOME SPOILERS BUT NO I HAVEN'T THERE IS SO MUCH MORE SOME VERY NASTY PEOPLE YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED.
I RECEIVED AN ARC COPY.
was much loved by her.mother and father
LADY EVELYN - was known for her strange ways she was interested in books regarding horticulture and healing remedies of plants.
At a ball, Evelyn's betrothed enters with Sophia her best friend announces he is marrying her.
The gossip starts Evelyn embarrassed rushes into the gardens upset.
JOHN EARL OF BECKINGSALE - Is hiding in the gardens from his mother who has arranged the ball in an attempt to find him a wife. He loves books, his mind is always searching for new knowledge has no intention of marrying as this will take him from his books and travels.
Suddenly a young lady with her head down rushes into him he catches her, she cannot see as there is something in her eyes, they have a strange conversation she makes him laugh John has never met anyone like her, he helps clear her eyes, before she can see him her mother calls her "Evelyn," ( HER PARENTS TAKE HER HOME AS THE GOSSIPS HAVE STARTED THEY ARE SHUNNED FROM SOCIETY).
John never stopped looking for her at every ball or society outing - all he had was a name.
ONE YEAR LATER - her first time in society for a year Evelyn hears some cruel people talk as she passes, she goes outside a man asks if she is ok her mother can't find her, worried she calls her name she rushed out He says "it's her" runs after her she has gone.
WELL THIS IS BRILLIANT YOU NEED TO READ IT YOU MIGHT THINK I HAVE GIVEN SOME SPOILERS BUT NO I HAVEN'T THERE IS SO MUCH MORE SOME VERY NASTY PEOPLE YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED.
I RECEIVED AN ARC COPY.
was much loved by her.mother and father
March 28, 2023
John and Evelyn.
He is nerdy - very studious. She is awkward and wants to be a doctor. They get each other and instant chemistry.
John has been intrigued by Evelyn for a year ever since he stumbled upon her at a ball at his home. She almost blinds herself with oleander sap and he helps her find water to rinse it out. He disappears before she gets her sight back.
Another ball at his home he finds her on his private balcony- they banter and a fake courtship is brought up. They fake court getting to know each other and highly enjoying it. He steals some kisses - and a bit more with some “strip” chess in his office.
He finally gets the nerve to ask her to marry him and then the surprise villain makes his move. The villain blackmails the h into giving the H up. H gets reinforcement with his bil the Duke and thwarts the bad guy. Hea with finally having sex.
Why did I like this so much… I like that the H is into the h right away and they are instantly courting- even if it is fake. I liked the getting to know you, the little things he did to try and make her happy - sneak her into the Eton library, and their stolen kisses and not much more (besides on the desk for her). I liked that everyone was like “finally you found someone more interesting than your books” to the H…it was rather sweet.
He is nerdy - very studious. She is awkward and wants to be a doctor. They get each other and instant chemistry.
John has been intrigued by Evelyn for a year ever since he stumbled upon her at a ball at his home. She almost blinds herself with oleander sap and he helps her find water to rinse it out. He disappears before she gets her sight back.
Another ball at his home he finds her on his private balcony- they banter and a fake courtship is brought up. They fake court getting to know each other and highly enjoying it. He steals some kisses - and a bit more with some “strip” chess in his office.
He finally gets the nerve to ask her to marry him and then the surprise villain makes his move. The villain blackmails the h into giving the H up. H gets reinforcement with his bil the Duke and thwarts the bad guy. Hea with finally having sex.
Why did I like this so much… I like that the H is into the h right away and they are instantly courting- even if it is fake. I liked the getting to know you, the little things he did to try and make her happy - sneak her into the Eton library, and their stolen kisses and not much more (besides on the desk for her). I liked that everyone was like “finally you found someone more interesting than your books” to the H…it was rather sweet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2023
Someone hiding from society and someone who was pushed away from society...
Evelyn has been ashamed to leave the house ever since her fiancee dumped her.
John, Earl of Beckinsale is more interested in books and gardens instead of getting married.
A chance meeting before she was disgraced, but not knowing who it was, he saw a lady who enjoyed flowers and she thought he was the gardner.
When he lays his eyes on the lady from the garden again, the object of his obsession, she is just as he remembered her.
She sees him as a way to get back in society, also as a way to keep the less thanks off her back, he sees it was a way to get to know her. A fake betrothal is just what the doctor ordered.
This book was amazing, read it in one sitting. Grab this and don't pass it up!
Evelyn has been ashamed to leave the house ever since her fiancee dumped her.
John, Earl of Beckinsale is more interested in books and gardens instead of getting married.
A chance meeting before she was disgraced, but not knowing who it was, he saw a lady who enjoyed flowers and she thought he was the gardner.
When he lays his eyes on the lady from the garden again, the object of his obsession, she is just as he remembered her.
She sees him as a way to get back in society, also as a way to keep the less thanks off her back, he sees it was a way to get to know her. A fake betrothal is just what the doctor ordered.
This book was amazing, read it in one sitting. Grab this and don't pass it up!
January 5, 2023
Daphne Byrne is becoming one of my favorite writers. I find when I want a historical romance I reach for one of her books and this one is no different. Evelyn is such a strong and compassionate female lead. I loved the relationship between her and John. Seeing them teach each other things they didn't know and John not being self conscious in the way that he felt he needed to know more than Evelyn, and seeing he was willing to help her know and experience more than she could as a woman. John was just such a great lead man for Evelyn. Also that extended epilogue had me tearing up, definitely be sure to read that!
December 30, 2022
Is happiness out of reach?
John, the Earl of Beckingsale meets an adorably clumsy woman in his garden during a ball.
A year later, unable to forget her, he meets Evelyn again but her circumstances are very different. A betrothed has jilted her to marry her best friend and she is ruined in the eyes of the ton.
He proposes a fake betrothal to get revenge against her ex-friend. Evelyn accepts but, quite soon, they unexpectedly develop feelings for each other, which is totally not in the taste of his friend, William, who is insanely jealous of John’s position in society and wealth.
John, the Earl of Beckingsale meets an adorably clumsy woman in his garden during a ball.
A year later, unable to forget her, he meets Evelyn again but her circumstances are very different. A betrothed has jilted her to marry her best friend and she is ruined in the eyes of the ton.
He proposes a fake betrothal to get revenge against her ex-friend. Evelyn accepts but, quite soon, they unexpectedly develop feelings for each other, which is totally not in the taste of his friend, William, who is insanely jealous of John’s position in society and wealth.
January 26, 2023
Refreshing to read about a free spirited women, wishing to pursue her own interests, finds someone who applaud and pushes her to be adventurous and free.
Their dynamic and quick remarks were incredibly endearing. But it was very frustrating that because of how relationships and courting was viewed back then, you literally could not read of their private personal time, without the risk of society shunning them. Because I know that had we had the chance to read more about their quick getaways, we would’ve only fallen more in love with these characters.
Their dynamic and quick remarks were incredibly endearing. But it was very frustrating that because of how relationships and courting was viewed back then, you literally could not read of their private personal time, without the risk of society shunning them. Because I know that had we had the chance to read more about their quick getaways, we would’ve only fallen more in love with these characters.
January 3, 2023
I read this entire book and I really have no clue what wickedness the earl was wishing for! Other than the title, I liked this story. The concept of meeting Mr. Right but not knowing his identity was unique.
I think that this book works as a standalone. However, it would have been interesting to have read the first one prior because some of the characters apparently have some shady backstories!
I received a free ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I think that this book works as a standalone. However, it would have been interesting to have read the first one prior because some of the characters apparently have some shady backstories!
I received a free ARC and this is my honest opinion.
January 7, 2023
Never trust your best friend!
Evelyn rebelled against the strict rule governing young ladies, her best friend stole Evelyn’s betrothed! At a ball, she walked in the garden and touched the Oleander plant and got in her ey, blinding her, John helped her to a fountain, washed her eyes, never knew who helped her, but he could not forget her, but only knows her first name! Took a year to find her, and he wants her!
Evelyn rebelled against the strict rule governing young ladies, her best friend stole Evelyn’s betrothed! At a ball, she walked in the garden and touched the Oleander plant and got in her ey, blinding her, John helped her to a fountain, washed her eyes, never knew who helped her, but he could not forget her, but only knows her first name! Took a year to find her, and he wants her!
July 8, 2023
Story of two smart people who act like idiots. The H frequently vacillates between loving the h intensely and not being sure he that he really loves her, or wants to marry her. Of course that doesn't stop him from risking her reputation.
Spoiler:
The Hero is an Earl, his best friend is a Duke and is married to his sister. The heroine is the daughter of a Baron. Part of the story involves them not realizing that an evil Mr. doesn't really have a lot of power over them. This was the part that made me start skimming over pages.
Spoiler:
The Hero is an Earl, his best friend is a Duke and is married to his sister. The heroine is the daughter of a Baron. Part of the story involves them not realizing that an evil Mr. doesn't really have a lot of power over them. This was the part that made me start skimming over pages.
December 28, 2022
Hot and steamy
John remembers meeting Evelyn and dreaming about her ever since. However as her eyes where streaming she does not recognise him. During a fake courtship they fall in love however a jealous friend of John's blackmail them to part however with good family they manage to have their HEA.
John remembers meeting Evelyn and dreaming about her ever since. However as her eyes where streaming she does not recognise him. During a fake courtship they fall in love however a jealous friend of John's blackmail them to part however with good family they manage to have their HEA.
December 28, 2022
I liked this book very much. There was chemistry between the main characters from the beginning. Evelyn and John make a charming couple. Evelyn had a broken betrothal and it's John's idea that they begin to court. The fake relationship quickly comes with real feelings. It's a very charming love story.
December 30, 2022
Powerful
This is a wonderful story. One chance and unfortunate meeting with a stranger can turn into something wonderful. A betrayal leads to a facade..but is it for the man? Can they overcome a hurdle that is gonna be thrown at them..read and find out...you will not be disappointed in the actions, flirting, and attitude in this book.
This is a wonderful story. One chance and unfortunate meeting with a stranger can turn into something wonderful. A betrayal leads to a facade..but is it for the man? Can they overcome a hurdle that is gonna be thrown at them..read and find out...you will not be disappointed in the actions, flirting, and attitude in this book.
January 3, 2023
An unusual lady
Great story wonderful story line great characters. This story will grip your heart stings,and believe in miracles. One year from when Evelyn met John, she met him again, but didn't know it was him. But John knew who she was, his lady in the garden. Fate played a hand in bringing these two together.
Thank you ♥️
Great story wonderful story line great characters. This story will grip your heart stings,and believe in miracles. One year from when Evelyn met John, she met him again, but didn't know it was him. But John knew who she was, his lady in the garden. Fate played a hand in bringing these two together.
Thank you ♥️
January 3, 2023
Evelyn and John's struggle to a HEA
Evelyn and John's struggle to a HEA
I loved her communication and the antics that took place.
A good easy to read story, well written, with wonderful characters and attention to detail. A romance full of unexpected turns and twist or two with a happily ever after
Evelyn and John's struggle to a HEA
I loved her communication and the antics that took place.
A good easy to read story, well written, with wonderful characters and attention to detail. A romance full of unexpected turns and twist or two with a happily ever after
January 5, 2023
The fake courtship of the Earl
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel illustrating the rules fog courtship and behavior during the regent period. John being pushed to marry and Evelyn returning to the ton after a disastrous courtship decide to enter into a fame relationship to stop from being forced into marriages they do not want. I read this as an ARC and thoroughly enjoyed if.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel illustrating the rules fog courtship and behavior during the regent period. John being pushed to marry and Evelyn returning to the ton after a disastrous courtship decide to enter into a fame relationship to stop from being forced into marriages they do not want. I read this as an ARC and thoroughly enjoyed if.
March 25, 2023
Really enjoyable
Having been jilted by her fiance and best friend, she has been in seclusion for the past year. Attending a ball, she enters a private terrace. There she finds an Earl. They hatch a plan for a fake engagement. This will keep his mother from hounding him to marry, and her to show a courtship. There is plenty of action including an evil best friend
Having been jilted by her fiance and best friend, she has been in seclusion for the past year. Attending a ball, she enters a private terrace. There she finds an Earl. They hatch a plan for a fake engagement. This will keep his mother from hounding him to marry, and her to show a courtship. There is plenty of action including an evil best friend
March 31, 2023
Wishes can come true
A great story of two people not hoping for marriage but an unexpected event happens. The story is full of witty conversations between the couple which increases the attraction when they meet a year later. As often happens, doubts arise and threats along the way. This is the story of a couple who truly belong together; I highly recommend this series.
A great story of two people not hoping for marriage but an unexpected event happens. The story is full of witty conversations between the couple which increases the attraction when they meet a year later. As often happens, doubts arise and threats along the way. This is the story of a couple who truly belong together; I highly recommend this series.
December 29, 2022
This was a good installment in the series with continued characters and some suspense. It was a fun fake relationship to immerse in. There are some steamy scenes.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 30, 2022
interesting book
It’s a very interesting romantic love story with some twists and turns.
The plot is really good with romance and betrayal. The main characters are very intelligent and lovely. And there’s a happy ending. I recommend this book to romance lovers.
It’s a very interesting romantic love story with some twists and turns.
The plot is really good with romance and betrayal. The main characters are very intelligent and lovely. And there’s a happy ending. I recommend this book to romance lovers.
December 30, 2022
The Earl and the Baron's daughter!
Run don't walk to pick up Daphne's new book. It has well developed characters and amusing dialog that will keep you interested in the outcome. It's where romance, intrigue and HEA meet for John and Evelyn. Way to go Ms. Byrne.
Run don't walk to pick up Daphne's new book. It has well developed characters and amusing dialog that will keep you interested in the outcome. It's where romance, intrigue and HEA meet for John and Evelyn. Way to go Ms. Byrne.
January 1, 2023
a Knock Out Romance!
All i can say is I was enchanted from the very beginning and could not put this unlikely but well earned ever after. Oh how Two bookworms come alive together…..1
All i can say is I was enchanted from the very beginning and could not put this unlikely but well earned ever after. Oh how Two bookworms come alive together…..1
January 18, 2023
Wish No More!
The Earl's Wicked Wish by Daphne Byrne was such a wonderful gift to read. I felt every tantalizing moment of the course of their struggles. It was overwhelming. It is well written and exciting.
A must read.
The Earl's Wicked Wish by Daphne Byrne was such a wonderful gift to read. I felt every tantalizing moment of the course of their struggles. It was overwhelming. It is well written and exciting.
A must read.
January 23, 2023
Go with your heart.
A wonderful story of life's battles in that era. The ups, the downs and the curves life throws. Wonderful characters to take you through these feelings making you root for the good and want "come-upance" for the dishonorable.
A wonderful story of life's battles in that era. The ups, the downs and the curves life throws. Wonderful characters to take you through these feelings making you root for the good and want "come-upance" for the dishonorable.
February 26, 2023
Unique characters
This was an excellent story about a unique bluestocking and her studious earl. Their path was strewn with scandal and the deceptive of some bitter souls nearest them; but love won the day as in customary in romance stories.
This was an excellent story about a unique bluestocking and her studious earl. Their path was strewn with scandal and the deceptive of some bitter souls nearest them; but love won the day as in customary in romance stories.
March 19, 2023
Senuous and utterly romantic!
Most satisfying read. If you wallow in historical romances as I do, this will be so captivating. Like strong heroines and sensitive heroes. This is for you. Spoiler alert: it's so good you may expect to lose some beauty rest!
Most satisfying read. If you wallow in historical romances as I do, this will be so captivating. Like strong heroines and sensitive heroes. This is for you. Spoiler alert: it's so good you may expect to lose some beauty rest!
September 8, 2024
Love, love this story
This is an amazing story of courage and patient two souls meant to find each other in what seems impossible circumstances and yet they do against all odds.
This is an amazing story of courage and patient two souls meant to find each other in what seems impossible circumstances and yet they do against all odds.
January 5, 2023
Evelyn & John
Fake relationship
He falls first
Fake relationship
He falls first
April 2, 2023
The Earls wicked wish
This story was great . The storyline was perfect and the characters were great. It was a very entertaining story.
This story was great . The storyline was perfect and the characters were great. It was a very entertaining story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews