This is a debut novel, and frankly, I'm stunned. It was excellent. Sexy and earthy. The romance was firmly placed in the historical setting the author chose, without being dated. Great characterization. The plot was unexceptional, but very solid and very interesting. The characters are not typical romance novel hero/heroines, and worth reading about for that alone.
Helpful Score: 7
I ADORED this book! Started it in the evening and stayed up into the wee hours of the morning finishing it. Wonderful characters, witty dialogue, delicious tension and erotic heat!! Loved every minute!
Helpful Score: 6
On one hand, the main characters make sense, are sympathetic, and have good chemistry. The story is actually set in the Georgian era, which is nice and different -- not that there are any real flavors of the era to back it up. There's also a dose of Mr Rochester in the male lead, which I'm not normally a fan of, but is played out nicely. On the other hand, the historical detail often falls short, people talk like they're living in the 90's, the heroine sometimes talks about the most inane things, and the 'dramatic payoff' bits are sort of bungled, mostly because the main 'villain' (or whatever) was constructed like an afterthought. It's a good story, but not necessarily good writing.
Helpful Score: 6
An atypical romance set in the Georgian era. Both are in their 30s, both have lost spouses, neither is especially attractive. Very refreshong.
Helpful Score: 6
Hard to believe this is Ms. Hoyt's debut novel. Loved both the hero and heroine, the dialouge was witty and it was refreshing to see that the heroine's 'to stupid to live moment' only lasted about three pages. Oh, and adored the loved scenes. Read this one straight through and can't wait to get started on this author's next book.
Helpful Score: 4
This novel begins with the heroine, who the reader quickly comes to love, nearly getting run over by a rider, who falls off his horse. What we learn is that the herione is a woman nearing thirty, widowed several years before, living in poverty with her mother-in-law and a young girl they took in to save from the poorhouse. Forced to desperate measures, the heroine goes looking for work, only to be turned down everywhere before she (I think, literally) bumps into the steward of the Earl of Swartingham, whose manor is nearby and who has recently returned to live there after many years. She convinces him that they can help each other because he must find a secretary by the next day and she must find work. She goes to work at the manor and there the relationship between she and the earl begins to grow.
He is a fascinating character who lost his entire family to smallpox when he was a teenager, and who barely survived himself and has the scars to show for his suffering. He is also a widower, the first wife having died in childbirth, but the marriage had been loveless. He had also realized belatedly that she found his scars repulsive, and he has continued to have some insecurities about his looks that persist throughout the story.
A few aspects of the plotline were incredibly unbelievable and a little annoying - this completely countrified widow ventures to London to pose as a prostitute for the earl, who she happens to know will be visiting a certain brothel. The way that she sets up this arrangement, through the sister of another prostitute whom she took in when she discovered her dying by the roadside, seems too cute by half, but once she is all settled in the brothel and the earl visits her there, all is (mostly) forgiven. The love scenes are intense and definitely erotic - though again, I had to suspend disbelief that the someone with as little experience as the heroine would have the confidence to pull it off.
Some of what I really enjoyed: the characters were very developed, and I had a lot empathy for them. It was great to see their relationship grow as they got to know each other and to see the trust develop between them.
Yet, again, it was a little hard to believe that the heroine, who not only desperately needed money and security for herself and her dependents, but also felt that she loved the earl, refused to marry him for so long. I understood her inner debate, but it just seemed like a cheap plot device to work some tension into the story after the point at which the two characters had already realized they loved each other. The one part of her hesitancy that I appreciated, however, was that her love was so strong that she did not want to force him into a marriage that might be childless. And I loved how he accepted her despite that possibility.
He is a fascinating character who lost his entire family to smallpox when he was a teenager, and who barely survived himself and has the scars to show for his suffering. He is also a widower, the first wife having died in childbirth, but the marriage had been loveless. He had also realized belatedly that she found his scars repulsive, and he has continued to have some insecurities about his looks that persist throughout the story.
A few aspects of the plotline were incredibly unbelievable and a little annoying - this completely countrified widow ventures to London to pose as a prostitute for the earl, who she happens to know will be visiting a certain brothel. The way that she sets up this arrangement, through the sister of another prostitute whom she took in when she discovered her dying by the roadside, seems too cute by half, but once she is all settled in the brothel and the earl visits her there, all is (mostly) forgiven. The love scenes are intense and definitely erotic - though again, I had to suspend disbelief that the someone with as little experience as the heroine would have the confidence to pull it off.
Some of what I really enjoyed: the characters were very developed, and I had a lot empathy for them. It was great to see their relationship grow as they got to know each other and to see the trust develop between them.
Yet, again, it was a little hard to believe that the heroine, who not only desperately needed money and security for herself and her dependents, but also felt that she loved the earl, refused to marry him for so long. I understood her inner debate, but it just seemed like a cheap plot device to work some tension into the story after the point at which the two characters had already realized they loved each other. The one part of her hesitancy that I appreciated, however, was that her love was so strong that she did not want to force him into a marriage that might be childless. And I loved how he accepted her despite that possibility.
Helpful Score: 4
Truthfully, while I awww'd and sniffled and generally gushed for Edward and Anna, what really made the story for me were the side characters.
The leading romance was fairly typical -though sweet and entertaining- but the poor Steward with the fantastically horrible fashion sense,(I cheered for the neon pink pigs, I swear)the valet with the stoop and maliciously cheerful spirit, even the so called antagonist with all her foiled blackmail attempts made me grin. And giggle.
I found the whole thing wonderfully light- there were no great tragedies, unpleasant misunderstandings lasting longer than five pages, or terrible secrets coming between them. Oh, I was invested, but it played nicely with my poor, tender little emotions, and I came out of it feeling genuinely good rather than rung out and heart sore- some romance authors out there are sadists, I tell ya. Once in a while it's nice to be coddled, in story or out.
Not to say that a few things didn't bug me- the actual seduction lasted perhaps three pages, which seems to be skimping after waiting so patiently for it. Edward never actually seemed to get around to unleashing his "famous temper" after the beginning, so there didn't seem to be much to respect in Anna not being intimidated, and the author's ego just rubbed me the wrong way.
Since when do all heroes -except Edward- not fantasize about the heroine's chest? Or not get in fights? or... well yeah.)
Still, I felt deliciously happy when I put it down, and I might even spring for a hardcover if it ever comes out. 4 1/2 stars!
The leading romance was fairly typical -though sweet and entertaining- but the poor Steward with the fantastically horrible fashion sense,(I cheered for the neon pink pigs, I swear)the valet with the stoop and maliciously cheerful spirit, even the so called antagonist with all her foiled blackmail attempts made me grin. And giggle.
I found the whole thing wonderfully light- there were no great tragedies, unpleasant misunderstandings lasting longer than five pages, or terrible secrets coming between them. Oh, I was invested, but it played nicely with my poor, tender little emotions, and I came out of it feeling genuinely good rather than rung out and heart sore- some romance authors out there are sadists, I tell ya. Once in a while it's nice to be coddled, in story or out.
Not to say that a few things didn't bug me- the actual seduction lasted perhaps three pages, which seems to be skimping after waiting so patiently for it. Edward never actually seemed to get around to unleashing his "famous temper" after the beginning, so there didn't seem to be much to respect in Anna not being intimidated, and the author's ego just rubbed me the wrong way.
Since when do all heroes -except Edward- not fantasize about the heroine's chest? Or not get in fights? or... well yeah.)
Still, I felt deliciously happy when I put it down, and I might even spring for a hardcover if it ever comes out. 4 1/2 stars!
Helpful Score: 3
One of the best romance novels I ahve read!!! Am looking forward to more by this suthor. Excellent!!!!!!
This was hands down one of the best books I have read in a long, long time!
They were not perfect, beautiful, contrived people. They could have been people I knew. This was my first book by this author. Ms. Hoyt creates a depth of character that is hard to find in any genre.
I will definitely be reading the other two in the series. I fear that I will be somewhat let down however, as she has set the bar for me. :)
This one is going on the "keeper" shelf!
They were not perfect, beautiful, contrived people. They could have been people I knew. This was my first book by this author. Ms. Hoyt creates a depth of character that is hard to find in any genre.
I will definitely be reading the other two in the series. I fear that I will be somewhat let down however, as she has set the bar for me. :)
This one is going on the "keeper" shelf!
Helpful Score: 2
A superbly written story of a scarred man of the aristocracy who falls in love with a plain woman from the local village. The back cover of the book doesn't do this sweet and thoughtful tale justice.
Hoyt writes well developed characters who have heart and soul. The romance is a slow burn without much of the silliness or misunderstandings that are evident in so many historical romances. She offers a convincing love story, characters who become more and more beautiful and handsome as you read about them, and exceptional love scenes with plenty of heat.
Four stars.
Hoyt writes well developed characters who have heart and soul. The romance is a slow burn without much of the silliness or misunderstandings that are evident in so many historical romances. She offers a convincing love story, characters who become more and more beautiful and handsome as you read about them, and exceptional love scenes with plenty of heat.
Four stars.
Helpful Score: 1
This is by far the best of the series. The leads are both developed with wit and humor and I really got drawn into the chemistry between them. It would all have been so much better though if Ms Hoyt had used something other than an idiotic brothel literary device to bring the two characters together. Please. So stupid. Despite that, it was a fun book, a keeper.
- I loved it! Especially Edward's personality and the conversations he had with his valet Davis! What a hoot! =)
- I can't wait for the next books! Enjoy!
- I can't wait for the next books! Enjoy!
Helpful Score: 1
This was a great love story. A Cranky, scarred hero and a great heroine. Hot. This is the first in a great trilogy. A keeper.
Helpful Score: 1
The best book out of Hoyt's Princes series - Edward is a hilarious grump and Anna is his perfect match! Of course, the secondary characters don't disappoint either - Jock, Mr. Hopple, etc. Definitely my favorite book in the series!
Helpful Score: 1
What a great book to get me out of my reading slump! I found this story to be humorous, riveting, and just a great read all around. I absolutely adored Anna and Edward. They were genuine characters that truly seemed to care about each other. I thought they had excellent chemistry and the sex scenes were pretty hot. Anna had a spine, which was refreshing. I felt her reactions to the sexual encounters with Edward were realistic. Edward may have been boorish and ill-tempered, his affection for Anna was evident. I was worried how he would react when he found out what she did. It had me on the edge of my seat and I was really rooting for them to get a HEA. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second story.
Helpful Score: 1
Sweet and enjoyable. I haven't read romances for several years, but this kept my attention with believable, average-looking characters, witty dialog & situations and smokey love scenes.
Helpful Score: 1
As good as it gets! The characters were so well written they felt like a visit that I didn't want to end.
Helpful Score: 1
Reminded my of Mary Balagh. The main characters are likeable, and the secondary characters are fun. I finished this quickly and had a hard time releasing it. I am looking for her other books now.
Helpful Score: 1
After reviewing her somewhat precarious financial situation, Anna Wren comes to the conclusion that she needs a job. When she discovers that Edward de Raaf, the Earl of Swartingham, requires a new secretary, it seems like the perfect solution to her employment problem. Having already lost two secretaries because of his temper, Edward reluctantly agrees to give Anna a chance. Much to Anna's surprise, she finds she likes working for the often stubborn but unexpectedly kind Edward, and Edward soon realizes that Anna is not only an excellent secretary but also an extraordinarily intriguing woman. Hoyt's superb debut historical romance will dazzle readers with its brilliant blend of exquisitely nuanced characters, splendidly sensual love story, and elegant writing expertly laced with a dash of tart wit.
One of my favorite books! I find myself comparing a lot of other books I read to this one. And of course they always come back lacking. So I would recommend this book to anyone!
Wish I could have loved this book because there were many wonderful elements: a Mr. Rochester type hero, the sensual attraction between the hero and heroine, historical time period. Loved the begging of the book and loved the end but I skimmed the middle which was just silly. I couldn't picture any woman of that time period getting away with visiting a brothel and not completely ruining her reputation. I know its fantasy and no suppose to be realistic but I still couldn't get past that one part of the story line. It was like trying to picture Elizabeth Bennett visiting a brothel...just not gonna happen.
Widowed Anna Wren is having a wretched day. After an arrogant male on horseback nearly squashed her, she arrives home to learn that she is in dire financial straits. The Early of Swartingham is in a quandary. Having frightened off two secretaries, Edward de Raaf needs someone who can withstand his bad temper and boorish behavior.
Great book, very steamy! Makes you want to stand up for Anna! You'll love this book!
Great book, very steamy! Makes you want to stand up for Anna! You'll love this book!
good, very hot romance about an atpyical hero described as "ugly."
good book, quick read - loved the characters!
A nice debut novel but not a keeper for me. The heroine said "no" too long to suit me.
I really enjoyed this book. Not your average hero and heroine. Author writes light and witty prose. A very fun, refreshing read.
Wonderful book! Read it in a day!
Wonderful Story, I could not put this book down. This was a Great Series, I read all three books in a week...
A. Loved it... I slacked on so much stuff this weekend because of this book!!!!
B. NEW FAV WRITER... I add Ms. Hoyt to my facebook people because of this book... I love her writing style. Very fresh, witty, and words can't do her writing (at least my writting) justice.
B. NEW FAV WRITER... I add Ms. Hoyt to my facebook people because of this book... I love her writing style. Very fresh, witty, and words can't do her writing (at least my writting) justice.
Not your typical hero and heroine but an absolutely terrific read!
Anna Wren needs a job. Since the death of her husband four years ago, she and her mother-in-law have been existing on his savings. The money has run out, so she looks for a position as a companion or nanny. She is in luck when she bumps into the steward for the Earl of Swartingham. The Earl has a temper and has dismissed two secretaries in as many weeks. Anna jumps at the chance to work for the Earl.
Edward de Raaf is surprised when his new secretary turns out to be a woman. After a few days on the job, Edward decides that he enjoys Mrs. Wren's company. As the days go by, their friendship grows into something more. The Earl has announced his engagement to a London debutante, but recognizes that the woman he really wants is his secretary.
This is a wonderful debut novel from Elizabeth Hoyt. The hero and heroine are made for each other. Anna is a no-nonsense heroine who usually says what's on her mind. I liked her from the first page. Edward is very self-conscious of his scars caused by small pox when he was a child. His wife died in childbirth, and even though he doesn't want to marry again, he knows it is his duty to carry on his title.
I read this book over ten years ago and liked it. This time I listened to the audiobook and loved it. The narration by Moira Quirk was outstanding. I hope she narrates the other books in the series. My rating: 5 Stars.
Edward de Raaf is surprised when his new secretary turns out to be a woman. After a few days on the job, Edward decides that he enjoys Mrs. Wren's company. As the days go by, their friendship grows into something more. The Earl has announced his engagement to a London debutante, but recognizes that the woman he really wants is his secretary.
This is a wonderful debut novel from Elizabeth Hoyt. The hero and heroine are made for each other. Anna is a no-nonsense heroine who usually says what's on her mind. I liked her from the first page. Edward is very self-conscious of his scars caused by small pox when he was a child. His wife died in childbirth, and even though he doesn't want to marry again, he knows it is his duty to carry on his title.
I read this book over ten years ago and liked it. This time I listened to the audiobook and loved it. The narration by Moira Quirk was outstanding. I hope she narrates the other books in the series. My rating: 5 Stars.
I found this amusing and annoying in about equal measures. In its pacing and humor, it read to me as if the author were strongly influenced by Loretta Chase, but at this point this author is nowhere near as skilled as Ms Chase. Her language is quite modern, lacking anything much in the way of period flavor, and she misuses some words.
For those who care, the sex scenes in this are more graphic than your average historical novel, and border on what I've seen in 'romantica' or 'erotica' romances. I wasn't totally grossed out, but I did feel that it was more information than I needed.
The best part of the book is the tale of The Raven Prince, sections of which begin each chapter.
Not a total waste of time, but I can't recommend it either, except to readers who are OK with wallpaper history and modern language and manners in their historicals.
For those who care, the sex scenes in this are more graphic than your average historical novel, and border on what I've seen in 'romantica' or 'erotica' romances. I wasn't totally grossed out, but I did feel that it was more information than I needed.
The best part of the book is the tale of The Raven Prince, sections of which begin each chapter.
Not a total waste of time, but I can't recommend it either, except to readers who are OK with wallpaper history and modern language and manners in their historicals.
Great book. I loved the suspense of how Anna gets under Edwards skin and makes him need her.
Hoyt just gets better with every book. Loved it.
Great book, can't wait for the next one!
I liked this book. It wasn't anything overly special, but the characters were likeable and the plot was interesting enough. This is what I like to call a beach read. Something fun, wistful, and easy to pass the time. The only bad thing about this book for me was that the book never really peaked for me. There was a lot of build up and the book seemed to wrap up and end rather quickly, and I just felt it could have been better.
I loved this debut novel ... can't wait to read more of her books!
