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The Byronic Book Club #2
Curled Up with an Earl
"Ever since we first met, I've imagined what it would be like to be in your arms, to feel your lips upon mine. I'm twenty-eight years old. A shy and oft-times awkward spinster with singular scientific interests, and I've…I've never been kissed. Not once. In fact, I never thought I would ever want to be kissed. But then I met you and…and I do want this. Very much." Miss Lucy Bertram is content to spend her days writing scientific articles or curling up with a Gothic romance novel. Indeed, she'd rather stick a hatpin in her eye than attend a ball. But when her father, the eccentric botanist Sir Oswald, insists she accept the suit of a wealthy but stiffer-than-a-poker industrialist to save the family from penury, Lucy decides to act. She's certain her disowned brother, Monty, will take her side. But first she must find him in St. Giles's cutthroat rookeries. A covert agent for the Crown, William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, is on the hunt for a ruthless killer determined to destroy the Linnean Society. Sir Oswald, a botanical poisons expert, is the prime suspect. Posing as a groom in the baronet's household, it shouldn't take Will long to unearth the evidence Scotland Yard needs. If only the beguiling Miss Bertram wasn't so damn distracting… As an unexpected but undeniable passion flares between Lucy and Will, confidences are exchanged and dark secrets come to light. But will a murderer, determined to stay hidden, destroy their chances of finding a happy-ever-after?
333 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 7, 2023
About the author
Amy Rose Bennett
30 books486 followersAmy Rose Bennett has always wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. An avid reader with a particular love for historical romance, it seemed only natural to write stories in her favourite genre. She has a passion for creating emotion-packed—and sometimes a little racy—stories set in the Georgian and Regency periods. Of course, her strong-willed heroines and rakish heroes always find their happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
October 22, 2022
✨Ipomoea quamoclit is for the botany girlies✨
I really really liked this, just as I loved book one! Curled Up with an Earl was cozy and soft and perfect for midnight reading. Will and Lucy were perfectly matched and the little things they did for each other throughout the book made my heart so happy. (Also the warm milk cracked me up.)
I think the only thing I have issues with is the complete abruptness and 180° of the ending and certain characters. I’m in my revenge era and so I thought some things were handled a bit too prettily.
But even then, I loved their relationship, the mistaken (intentional on his part) identity, and the plot as a whole. He was also just a vibe. That brogue is gonna take me out in the audiobook. The sex scenes were good and hot and Will had one quote that was just so out-of-the-blue perfect?? (Hint: cats)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
I really really liked this, just as I loved book one! Curled Up with an Earl was cozy and soft and perfect for midnight reading. Will and Lucy were perfectly matched and the little things they did for each other throughout the book made my heart so happy. (Also the warm milk cracked me up.)
I think the only thing I have issues with is the complete abruptness and 180° of the ending and certain characters. I’m in my revenge era and so I thought some things were handled a bit too prettily.
But even then, I loved their relationship, the mistaken (intentional on his part) identity, and the plot as a whole. He was also just a vibe. That brogue is gonna take me out in the audiobook. The sex scenes were good and hot and Will had one quote that was just so out-of-the-blue perfect?? (Hint: cats)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
February 7, 2023
I am reviewing the audio version and the narrator of this book, Sasha Higgins, is wonderful! She has different voices for each major character, and it isn't hard to tell who is speaking. Her interpretation of the narrative is just great. This is the second book in the Byronic Book Club Series, and I loved the cloak and dagger spy mystery plot of this book. What can I say? I'm a Romantic-Suspense fan and love to see that aspect in an Historical Romance book.
Miss Lucy Bertram is almost on the shelf, but even though she is 28, her father hasn't given up hope of an advantageous match for her, and his flagging finances too. Lucy only wants to be left in peace to pursue her scientific studies and writings. The prospective suitor her father has chosen is a wealthy industrialist and bores her to tears. But even though they don't suit at all, the dastardly suitor just won't go away and her father, Sir Oswald, won't give up either.
As fate would have it, Lucy falls on her face at the feet of a handsome groom, who is actually a spy sent to investigate her father. Undercover for Scotland Yard, William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, is nothing is not enchanted by the lovely Lucy. But he has strong suspicions that her father is behind the deaths of several Linnean Society members, and behind the threats the Charles Darwin. All he needs is evidence.
Lucy and William both know that her unacceptable suitor, Mr. Thorne, is putting pressure on her father. They work together to uncover just who poisoned her father's colleagues and why her father is so determined to see her married to Mr. Thorne.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Miss Lucy Bertram is almost on the shelf, but even though she is 28, her father hasn't given up hope of an advantageous match for her, and his flagging finances too. Lucy only wants to be left in peace to pursue her scientific studies and writings. The prospective suitor her father has chosen is a wealthy industrialist and bores her to tears. But even though they don't suit at all, the dastardly suitor just won't go away and her father, Sir Oswald, won't give up either.
As fate would have it, Lucy falls on her face at the feet of a handsome groom, who is actually a spy sent to investigate her father. Undercover for Scotland Yard, William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, is nothing is not enchanted by the lovely Lucy. But he has strong suspicions that her father is behind the deaths of several Linnean Society members, and behind the threats the Charles Darwin. All he needs is evidence.
Lucy and William both know that her unacceptable suitor, Mr. Thorne, is putting pressure on her father. They work together to uncover just who poisoned her father's colleagues and why her father is so determined to see her married to Mr. Thorne.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
February 7, 2023
I have been looking forward to this one since I met Lucy in book one and I was not disappointed, Lucy has always been shy around people except family and best friends, she is a keen botanist who helps her father write up his papers but sadly she is not always acknowledged for what she does, her life plan is nothing that most young woman of the era wants but will that all change for Lucy?
Lucy Bertram is happy helping her father with his work, and working in the garden where they grow some very dangerous plants, but she is also saddened by the fact that her dear brother Monty is estranged from her father and she has no idea where he is, add to that the fact that the family is struggling financially then her dear father, Sir Oswald is pushing her to marry an industrialist to help with the coffers, Lucy must do what she can to find her brother, she knows he will help her.
As an undercover agent William Lockhart, Earl of Kyle is sent to the Bertram home as a groom under the alias of Will Armstrong to investigate the murder and threats of men from the Linnean Society and Sir Oswald an expert on poisonous plants is their main suspect, what he finds is the beautiful Lucy Bertram and soon there is more than investigating going on but Lucy is a major help to Will.
The passion and sensual desire between Lucy and Will grows daily and before long Will confides in Lucy the truth of why he is there and there are secrets uncovered as danger grows, will they find the killer will they give into the love that is growing and change the plans both Will and Lucy had for their future?
I loved this book so much it is a fabulous story, a beautiful romance and a dangerous mystery to uncover Lucy and Will are so suited to each other, it is sensual and very moving, Of course catching up with Artemis and Jane was fabulous and I can’t wait till I get to read Jane’s story. I would highly recommend this one to any lover of historical romance.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
Lucy Bertram is happy helping her father with his work, and working in the garden where they grow some very dangerous plants, but she is also saddened by the fact that her dear brother Monty is estranged from her father and she has no idea where he is, add to that the fact that the family is struggling financially then her dear father, Sir Oswald is pushing her to marry an industrialist to help with the coffers, Lucy must do what she can to find her brother, she knows he will help her.
As an undercover agent William Lockhart, Earl of Kyle is sent to the Bertram home as a groom under the alias of Will Armstrong to investigate the murder and threats of men from the Linnean Society and Sir Oswald an expert on poisonous plants is their main suspect, what he finds is the beautiful Lucy Bertram and soon there is more than investigating going on but Lucy is a major help to Will.
The passion and sensual desire between Lucy and Will grows daily and before long Will confides in Lucy the truth of why he is there and there are secrets uncovered as danger grows, will they find the killer will they give into the love that is growing and change the plans both Will and Lucy had for their future?
I loved this book so much it is a fabulous story, a beautiful romance and a dangerous mystery to uncover Lucy and Will are so suited to each other, it is sensual and very moving, Of course catching up with Artemis and Jane was fabulous and I can’t wait till I get to read Jane’s story. I would highly recommend this one to any lover of historical romance.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
February 7, 2023
This is a very solid, enjoyable historical romance. It might not break many molds, but it ended up as a very enjoyable way to spend our time!
Lucy is a bluestocking wallflower botanist who writes her father's research papers for him. Their area of expertise? Poisonous plants! When eminent scientist Charles Darwin is threatened, Will (Scottish marquess, heir to a dukedom, AND undercover agent for the crown) infiltrates Lucy's country home, posing as a groom. They're immediately attracted to each other and grow close based on several carriage rides (he's a groom and sometimes coachman, remember?) and late-night encounters in the kitchen (he keeps trying to sneak in to search her father's office, and she keeps making him warm milk).
The best part of the book is how Lucy deals with the eventual revelation of Will's true identity. Bennett takes what could be a fraught, angsty reveal and instead makes it into a refreshingly low-key encounter. (We love it when people in love actually love each other). This is a fun one!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Lucy is a bluestocking wallflower botanist who writes her father's research papers for him. Their area of expertise? Poisonous plants! When eminent scientist Charles Darwin is threatened, Will (Scottish marquess, heir to a dukedom, AND undercover agent for the crown) infiltrates Lucy's country home, posing as a groom. They're immediately attracted to each other and grow close based on several carriage rides (he's a groom and sometimes coachman, remember?) and late-night encounters in the kitchen (he keeps trying to sneak in to search her father's office, and she keeps making him warm milk).
The best part of the book is how Lucy deals with the eventual revelation of Will's true identity. Bennett takes what could be a fraught, angsty reveal and instead makes it into a refreshingly low-key encounter. (We love it when people in love actually love each other). This is a fun one!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
December 14, 2022
This is the second book in The Byronic Book club, and it is as romantic and entertaining as the first one. I loved the characters and the romance as well as the intriguing mystery.
After a falling out with her father, Lucy’s brother has been missing for months. Her family seems to be struggling financially, and her father is pushing her toward a man she has no interest in. Lucy is perfectly content becoming a spinster, traveling, and working on her botanical goals even though she doesn’t get credit for the papers she writes for her father. When Lucy meets Will, their new stableman, she has no idea how much her life is about to change.
Will is an Earl and a spy for the crown charged with investigating Lucy’s father, a suspect in a case Will is working on. Posing as a stableman, Will has easy access to her father’s home, which helps his investigation and allows him time to get to know Lucy. I love Will! He falls for Lucy so fast and so hard, and he is beyond distracted by his feelings. It’s so sweet to see this capable, strong man become so unraveled by her. And Lucy is equally drawn to him. I think it helps that he is pretending to be a stableman. If she had met him in a formal setting with other members of the elite, I have a feeling their relationship would be quite different.
Lucy is intelligent, awkward, and shy, but when she’s around Will, her timidity begins to fade. It’s so wonderful to see Lucy go from being reserved, uncomfortable, and apprehensive to self-assured and willing to speak her mind. She reminds me of myself in many ways. She has anxiety and struggles with social and new situations, and she doesn’t like conflict. She is also a people pleaser and tries really hard to appease her family. Her budding relationship with Will gives Lucy the confidence she seems to lack.
I adore the romance between Lucy and Will. They have amazing chemistry, and they see each other in ways that no one else does. It’s a new experience for them both. Their love story is filled with yearning and longing, and there’s some steam too. Some of my favorite scenes are when they take secret peeks at each other, and when you can tell they are ready to burst with love for each other but try to resist. It’s so sweet and angsty and endearing, and it made their eventual HEA all the more romantic.
The mystery is also intriguing, as Will tries to determine who is threatening members of the scientific society, and Lucy tries to find her brother. Will also has to reveal his true identity to Lucy, and I was curious to see how she would react to that. Their journey takes them into some dangerous situations, which adds to the mystery and suspense and makes the story even more entertaining. I was eager to find out if my predictions were right, and I enjoyed the botanical aspect of the investigation and Lucy’s pivotal role in solving the mystery.
I thought this was a great addition to the series and loved that the characters in the first book are also in this one. However, even if you didn’t read the first book, you can easily read this one. They both can be read as standalones. That being said, I enjoyed and recommend them both! Special thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
After a falling out with her father, Lucy’s brother has been missing for months. Her family seems to be struggling financially, and her father is pushing her toward a man she has no interest in. Lucy is perfectly content becoming a spinster, traveling, and working on her botanical goals even though she doesn’t get credit for the papers she writes for her father. When Lucy meets Will, their new stableman, she has no idea how much her life is about to change.
Will is an Earl and a spy for the crown charged with investigating Lucy’s father, a suspect in a case Will is working on. Posing as a stableman, Will has easy access to her father’s home, which helps his investigation and allows him time to get to know Lucy. I love Will! He falls for Lucy so fast and so hard, and he is beyond distracted by his feelings. It’s so sweet to see this capable, strong man become so unraveled by her. And Lucy is equally drawn to him. I think it helps that he is pretending to be a stableman. If she had met him in a formal setting with other members of the elite, I have a feeling their relationship would be quite different.
Lucy is intelligent, awkward, and shy, but when she’s around Will, her timidity begins to fade. It’s so wonderful to see Lucy go from being reserved, uncomfortable, and apprehensive to self-assured and willing to speak her mind. She reminds me of myself in many ways. She has anxiety and struggles with social and new situations, and she doesn’t like conflict. She is also a people pleaser and tries really hard to appease her family. Her budding relationship with Will gives Lucy the confidence she seems to lack.
I adore the romance between Lucy and Will. They have amazing chemistry, and they see each other in ways that no one else does. It’s a new experience for them both. Their love story is filled with yearning and longing, and there’s some steam too. Some of my favorite scenes are when they take secret peeks at each other, and when you can tell they are ready to burst with love for each other but try to resist. It’s so sweet and angsty and endearing, and it made their eventual HEA all the more romantic.
The mystery is also intriguing, as Will tries to determine who is threatening members of the scientific society, and Lucy tries to find her brother. Will also has to reveal his true identity to Lucy, and I was curious to see how she would react to that. Their journey takes them into some dangerous situations, which adds to the mystery and suspense and makes the story even more entertaining. I was eager to find out if my predictions were right, and I enjoyed the botanical aspect of the investigation and Lucy’s pivotal role in solving the mystery.
I thought this was a great addition to the series and loved that the characters in the first book are also in this one. However, even if you didn’t read the first book, you can easily read this one. They both can be read as standalones. That being said, I enjoyed and recommend them both! Special thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
February 21, 2023
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction
I was able to receive the ARC for this one from Sourcebooks Casablanca, and I got this in Audiobook. I will be honest in that I switched this one back in forth between the audiobook and ebook. And both formats worked so well. I do recommend, if you are doing this in audio, the accent is thick, so you might need to slow down the speed of the narration. Curled Up With An Earl surprised me in how much I loved it. I haven't been able to five star many historical romances of late, but this one BLEW me away. Its a story that will literally charm your socks off in every way. From the plot, to the meet cute, to the character development, to the essence of the romance, you will become so endeared to this one.
Summary
Curled Up With An Earl begins with the heroine and hero meeting in which our hero saves the heroine from a truly embarassing situation. But she later finds out that he has been hired to work for her father. There is an instant chemistry between this English lass and the Scottish spy who is working undercover, to hunt down a murderer and Lucy Betram's father is his top suspect. But as he works his way through his suspicions, there is a fiery passion that builds between himself and Lucy. He also comes to the terms of having to be fully honest with Lucy and proving to her that he is worth trusting in. But as they work together in helping each other in their goals, they find a love worth fighting for...
My Outlook
Curled Up With An Earl was such a magnificent story and I fell so hard for it! There was something so touching about this author's writing. She is a very new to me author, I have been seeing so many in the community rave about her books and I am not sure why it took me so long to read her, but this one worked so well for me. From the very charming meet cute between Lucy and William, I was completely head over in heels in love with this couple. Their chemistry is so palpable and inherently written into the story in such a flawless manner. There is also plenty of steam in this story, but not overkill. I really felt like Amy Rose Bennett really balances it out so well. The characters that we become introduced to were so fascinating. We first have our delectable hero, William Lockart, who is the Earl of Kyle. He was born and raised as a Scot, determined to fight against his family when a tragedy affected him. Now he works as a spy for the crown, and is really good at his job. But he also has such a sincerity about his character, and a strong determination to do what is right. Then we have our heroine, Lucy Bertram. Who is kind, passionate and intelligent. She works for her father as his assistant, and knows the ins and outs of poisons and plants. But she also has such a shy tender hearted nature. She is honest about her intentions with William, and even though she has no willingness to be married, the love that she feels for William, begins to make her realize what marriage can be with him and seeing this alteration in her character was so beautiful in what marriage can be for William and Lucy.
This couple were so in tune with each other. I loved the way in which that they build each other up in all the best of ways. I loved how William just accepted Lucy immediately, and encouraged her abilities. It was so well balanced in how this was implemented. And on Lucy's end, the way in which she accepts William, and his covert lifestyle and his secrets, was so endearing. She wasn't a heroine that spurned him for his secrets, but understood his position and accepted it and didn't become a harpy on him for it. She just readily trusts him knowing his affection for her is genuine.
The plot of the story was so well done in this one here. There is something about how it was built that she was so well crafted and developed so well. I truly enjoyed every aspect of this story and was such a perfectly swoony read that had me in my feels!
Overall View
Curled Up With An Earl is a superb romance that will capture you attention from the very beginning. Its a story that will stun you in silence, gravitate you instantly, and have you falling madly in love!
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 5
World Building: 5
Cover:5
Hero: 5
Heroine: 5
Steam: 5
Heart & Feels: 5
Ending: 5
Overall View: 5
January 8, 2023
Miss Lucy Bertram has a comfortable life helping her father with scientific research. But her father, an eccentric botanist, is demanding she be courted by a wealthy but uptight religious zealot who is offering to fund a research expedition. Lucy is determined to avoid the man and locate her missing brother...she just needs someone to help her find him in St. Giles's cutthroat rookeries. Enter William Lockhart: Earl of Kyle, heir to a duke, covert agent for the Crown, and disguised groom in the baronet's household.
This is the second book in the Byronic Book Club series, featuring three bluestocking friends. It can stand alone, although the first couple does play a small role and this book's couple have a brief meeting in book one.
William is on the hunt for a ruthless killer who has already poisoned and threatened members of the Linnean Society. Lucy's father, Sir Oswald, is the prime suspect due to his expertise in a botanical poisons. Will knows he and Lucy have met before (under one of his different disguises), and there is an almost immediate attraction between the two. I usually enjoy "impersonating a servant" stories because characters get to spend a lot of time together and generally let their guard down. That was the case here. I liked the balance of romance and investigation, and felt like the book took off in the second half when Will let Lucy into his confidence.
Tropes: Bluestocking, Spinster, Character in Disguise, Spy/Govt Work, Forced Proximity, Fake Relationship (sort of)
Steam: 4
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #NetGalley #CurledUpWithAnEarl
This is the second book in the Byronic Book Club series, featuring three bluestocking friends. It can stand alone, although the first couple does play a small role and this book's couple have a brief meeting in book one.
William is on the hunt for a ruthless killer who has already poisoned and threatened members of the Linnean Society. Lucy's father, Sir Oswald, is the prime suspect due to his expertise in a botanical poisons. Will knows he and Lucy have met before (under one of his different disguises), and there is an almost immediate attraction between the two. I usually enjoy "impersonating a servant" stories because characters get to spend a lot of time together and generally let their guard down. That was the case here. I liked the balance of romance and investigation, and felt like the book took off in the second half when Will let Lucy into his confidence.
Tropes: Bluestocking, Spinster, Character in Disguise, Spy/Govt Work, Forced Proximity, Fake Relationship (sort of)
Steam: 4
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #NetGalley #CurledUpWithAnEarl
February 21, 2023
Book #2 in The Byronic Book Club series. Disguised hero/fake-dating trope.
Loved this!!! It’s a low-angst, funny, endearing and sweet happily-ever-after with an intriguing murder mystery. This book follows the romance between our hero William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, a very handsome and brusk Scot who’s a covert agent for the Crown, and Miss Lucy Bertram, a very shy, introverted botanist. There’s also a great twist that features Lucy’s disowned brother Monty who is keeping a secret of his own that blows the lid off Will’s investigation. So so good, even better than the first in this series. I highly recommend it. ❥ 5 stars — Pub 2/7/23
Loved this!!! It’s a low-angst, funny, endearing and sweet happily-ever-after with an intriguing murder mystery. This book follows the romance between our hero William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, a very handsome and brusk Scot who’s a covert agent for the Crown, and Miss Lucy Bertram, a very shy, introverted botanist. There’s also a great twist that features Lucy’s disowned brother Monty who is keeping a secret of his own that blows the lid off Will’s investigation. So so good, even better than the first in this series. I highly recommend it. ❥ 5 stars — Pub 2/7/23
January 11, 2023
Curled Up with an Earl is the 2nd book in Amy Rose Bennett’s Byronic Book Club series, which follows the first book, Up All Night with a Good Duke. I loved the first book in the series (it was one of my fav new historicals released in 2022) and I was very excited for this second book!
Lucy lives with her father, who is an eccentric botanist, and the story kicks off with Lucy on her way home and getting stuck. She ends up getting help from Will, who introduces himself as the new groom and coachman at her father’s house. Lucy takes a liking to Will right away and feels a connection with him, she just doesn’t realize Will is actually a spy! William Lockhart, Earl of Kyle, is an agent/spy for the Crown and on the hunt for a ruthless killer. It just so happens that Lucy’s father, Sir Oswald is the prime suspect as a botanical poisons expert. So William goes undercover and poses as a groom in their house to get to the truth. Lucy ends up asking Will for help, she wants him to accompany her to the St. Giles Rookery to find her brother. Her father is trying to marry her off to someone she doesn’t want to and she knows if her brother was there he’d back her up.
Lucy and Will form an easy friendship and connection right away. It isn’t until halfway through the story that he reveals his actual identity to her. I enjoyed his character, learning about his complicated background with his family, his Scots brogue, the way he wants to protect her. I wasn’t as invested in this book as much as I was the first in the series, spy-related historicals aren’t always my jam so that’s definitely a me-thing of the tropes in the first book just working better for me. I still do enjoy this author’s writing and will continue checking out the next books in the series!
Thank you to the publisher (Sourcebooks) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. Curled Up with an Earl is out February 7, 2023!
Lucy lives with her father, who is an eccentric botanist, and the story kicks off with Lucy on her way home and getting stuck. She ends up getting help from Will, who introduces himself as the new groom and coachman at her father’s house. Lucy takes a liking to Will right away and feels a connection with him, she just doesn’t realize Will is actually a spy! William Lockhart, Earl of Kyle, is an agent/spy for the Crown and on the hunt for a ruthless killer. It just so happens that Lucy’s father, Sir Oswald is the prime suspect as a botanical poisons expert. So William goes undercover and poses as a groom in their house to get to the truth. Lucy ends up asking Will for help, she wants him to accompany her to the St. Giles Rookery to find her brother. Her father is trying to marry her off to someone she doesn’t want to and she knows if her brother was there he’d back her up.
Lucy and Will form an easy friendship and connection right away. It isn’t until halfway through the story that he reveals his actual identity to her. I enjoyed his character, learning about his complicated background with his family, his Scots brogue, the way he wants to protect her. I wasn’t as invested in this book as much as I was the first in the series, spy-related historicals aren’t always my jam so that’s definitely a me-thing of the tropes in the first book just working better for me. I still do enjoy this author’s writing and will continue checking out the next books in the series!
Thank you to the publisher (Sourcebooks) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. Curled Up with an Earl is out February 7, 2023!
January 27, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up.
Miss Lucy Bertram is happy to spend her time with a gothic romance novel or working on botany papers as her scholarly father’s research assistant. She’s definitely not one for society, so when her eccentric father, Sir Oswald, starts trying to foist a wealthy industrialist on her as a way to save their family from his own poor financial decisions, Lucy knows she must do something. If her brother, Monty, were around he’d help her, but since he’s been disowned by their father, finding him means venturing into the rookeries of St. Giles.
William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, has been working as an undercover agent for the Crown. His latest case, the search for a killer out to destroy the Linnean Society, has brought him to Sir Oswald’s door. Since he is an expert on botanical poisons, Sir Oswald is the top suspect in the case, so Will is posing as a groom in the man’s household in an attempt to gather enough evidence for Scotland Yard to make an arrest before anyone else is murdered. His mission would be much easier if he wasn’t so distracted by Lucy.
Neither expects the connection that sparks to life between them, but neither Lucy nor Will can deny that they feel something. As secrets come to light, Will and Lucy must work together to get to the bottom of the murders if they want a chance at a happily-ever-after together.
This was just the low-angst romance with a bit of mystery that I tend to enjoy. Romantic suspense is what got me into reading romance in the first place so I’m usually thrilled when there’s some sort of mystery for the MCs to solve, especially when they wind up working together against an external threat as was the case in this book. Will and Lucy made an excellent team and I loved how open and honest he was with her despite this being a hidden identity trope. He kept only what he had to from her and soon brought her into his confidence so it never felt like he was being untruthful with her and made their relationship feel like a real partnership. Lucy was a bit immature sometimes, especially for her age, but thankfully not often and she was happily very aware of herself and what she wanted, even when that changed from what she’d always thought her goal would be. She was quick to rearrange her goals and listen to her heart and her feelings for Will and was open with him about them, which I loved. These two came together with little fuss or angst and that’s always fantastic for me as I personally prefer external conflict.
I was fortunate to be able to both read this book and listen to the audio, which helped when I got to the point that I didn’t want to put it down. My only complaint is that the narrator has quite a high-pitched voice and it made Lucy seem younger and more immature and naïve at times. She also mispronounced some words that caused me a bit of confusion and some that I just found a bit irksome, for instance wanton was pronounced like wonton. Otherwise, the audio was still great and helped me stay invested in the story.
I loved Will and Lucy as a couple and I was very much here for their open communication. As much as I enjoyed the first book in this series, this one was even better for me and I look forward to the next story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Miss Lucy Bertram is happy to spend her time with a gothic romance novel or working on botany papers as her scholarly father’s research assistant. She’s definitely not one for society, so when her eccentric father, Sir Oswald, starts trying to foist a wealthy industrialist on her as a way to save their family from his own poor financial decisions, Lucy knows she must do something. If her brother, Monty, were around he’d help her, but since he’s been disowned by their father, finding him means venturing into the rookeries of St. Giles.
William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, has been working as an undercover agent for the Crown. His latest case, the search for a killer out to destroy the Linnean Society, has brought him to Sir Oswald’s door. Since he is an expert on botanical poisons, Sir Oswald is the top suspect in the case, so Will is posing as a groom in the man’s household in an attempt to gather enough evidence for Scotland Yard to make an arrest before anyone else is murdered. His mission would be much easier if he wasn’t so distracted by Lucy.
Neither expects the connection that sparks to life between them, but neither Lucy nor Will can deny that they feel something. As secrets come to light, Will and Lucy must work together to get to the bottom of the murders if they want a chance at a happily-ever-after together.
This was just the low-angst romance with a bit of mystery that I tend to enjoy. Romantic suspense is what got me into reading romance in the first place so I’m usually thrilled when there’s some sort of mystery for the MCs to solve, especially when they wind up working together against an external threat as was the case in this book. Will and Lucy made an excellent team and I loved how open and honest he was with her despite this being a hidden identity trope. He kept only what he had to from her and soon brought her into his confidence so it never felt like he was being untruthful with her and made their relationship feel like a real partnership. Lucy was a bit immature sometimes, especially for her age, but thankfully not often and she was happily very aware of herself and what she wanted, even when that changed from what she’d always thought her goal would be. She was quick to rearrange her goals and listen to her heart and her feelings for Will and was open with him about them, which I loved. These two came together with little fuss or angst and that’s always fantastic for me as I personally prefer external conflict.
I was fortunate to be able to both read this book and listen to the audio, which helped when I got to the point that I didn’t want to put it down. My only complaint is that the narrator has quite a high-pitched voice and it made Lucy seem younger and more immature and naïve at times. She also mispronounced some words that caused me a bit of confusion and some that I just found a bit irksome, for instance wanton was pronounced like wonton. Otherwise, the audio was still great and helped me stay invested in the story.
I loved Will and Lucy as a couple and I was very much here for their open communication. As much as I enjoyed the first book in this series, this one was even better for me and I look forward to the next story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
March 18, 2023
I was introduced to this author with book 1 of this series. I greatly enjoyed it, and book 2 did not disappoint. Although not historically accurate, I love how powerful, independent, and smart her heroines are. Miss Lucy Bertram weighed her options and made decisions with her mind as well as her heart. She was truly an expert in her field too. William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, was her perfect match. He was impressed and proud of her mind. There was some adventure and mystery and a lot of steamy chemistry. This is not a clean read. I enjoyed the premise and the execution. I recommend unless the lack of historical accuracy will bother you. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
January 25, 2023
"I like wicked and wanton. And I don't just want you, lass. I burn for you."
Thank you Netgalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for this Arc.
Will, Sunshine protector, Lockhart and Lucy, the sunshine, Bertram. 💙
The book definitely lives up to it's name. Lucy spends quite some time curled up with the Earl trying to unveil him, convincing him to her, and doing other things. Their relationship dynamic was so lovable and endearing. Things I absolutely loved in this sequel, there was no third act break up. And that they communicated, not letting misunderstandings or secrets get in between them.
Their interactions were way more interesting than the whole spy\murder plotline. Despite the fact that I was really looking forward to it, thought it would be a thrilling addition to the story. Alas, I was absent minded and felt disconnected to the story because of it. But that's fine! I was here for the romance and I was served. Their romantic relationship carried the book.
Ps. He's a dirty talker.
Thank you Netgalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for this Arc.
Will, Sunshine protector, Lockhart and Lucy, the sunshine, Bertram. 💙
The book definitely lives up to it's name. Lucy spends quite some time curled up with the Earl trying to unveil him, convincing him to her, and doing other things. Their relationship dynamic was so lovable and endearing. Things I absolutely loved in this sequel, there was no third act break up. And that they communicated, not letting misunderstandings or secrets get in between them.
Their interactions were way more interesting than the whole spy\murder plotline. Despite the fact that I was really looking forward to it, thought it would be a thrilling addition to the story. Alas, I was absent minded and felt disconnected to the story because of it. But that's fine! I was here for the romance and I was served. Their romantic relationship carried the book.
Ps. He's a dirty talker.
March 1, 2023
This is my first Amy Rose Bennett and I am an instant fan!
This was a fun, unique story with a swoony romance and it was a great time. I enjoyed the narrators performance of this one and it made for a wonderful reading experience.
I loved that Will was an undercover groom and when their feelings begin it seems impossible for them both. I also loved that the heroine didn't think she wanted to be married until she met the right man. Because that is a real struggle for us all.
I also think that the subterfuge didn't go on too long which made for low angst. The communication was wonderful and the spice was just the right amount.
I did find myself able to put it down and not overly needing to pick it back up immediately and that's the reason for my rating, but I had a great time over all and I would recommend it.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
CW: religious zealot, homophobia
This was a fun, unique story with a swoony romance and it was a great time. I enjoyed the narrators performance of this one and it made for a wonderful reading experience.
I loved that Will was an undercover groom and when their feelings begin it seems impossible for them both. I also loved that the heroine didn't think she wanted to be married until she met the right man. Because that is a real struggle for us all.
I also think that the subterfuge didn't go on too long which made for low angst. The communication was wonderful and the spice was just the right amount.
I did find myself able to put it down and not overly needing to pick it back up immediately and that's the reason for my rating, but I had a great time over all and I would recommend it.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
CW: religious zealot, homophobia
January 29, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
For Miss Lucy Bertram, trying to keep the estate together after her brother, Monty, runs off, her father is pushing her into a match with a wealthy industrialist, and hoping for her work to be listened to has been tough. The new groom, Will - the first new servant in years - seems to be someone Lucy can trust, and when she needs to journey into the dangerous St Giles area of London, there's no one else she would rather ask. But Will is not only a groom. He is in fact William Lockhart, Earl of Kyle, working for the Crown to discover who is poisoning members of the Linnean Society, and threatening Charles Darwin. He has suspicions of the baron, and maybe even Lucy, and needs to rule them out, one way or another. Will has always been able to keep his head on even the toughest of missions, but around Lucy, it's proving to be his hardest case even.
Well, this was phenomenal. I honestly could not put the book down. From the first meeting of Lucy and Will, it was clear that their story was going to be filled with twists and turns, and one for the ages. Lucy had been forced to take on more and more responsibility for the household when her mother died, and then her father came into money worries, and more and more staff were let go. She's a jack of all trades, and now has lost her brother who she relied on. She needs help, and Will appears at the perfect moment. Though he's keeping a secret, and is convinced that the baron has some role in the poisonings, he can't abide seeing Lucy suffer, and is ready and willing to help when she finally asks. He is possessive in a way he's never been before, but he knows that Lucy is strong and capable, but seeing her in danger is a step too far. I loved that when Will finally revealed the truth of who he was, he was honest and open about everything, and brought Lucy into his plans. Rather than sheltering her, he supported Lucy and pushed her ideas forward to his superiors. He was Lucy's biggest champion, and someone who she needed after so long. The mystery was great, though I had guessed at who the villain was. Even so, I'm really looking forward to book 3!
For Miss Lucy Bertram, trying to keep the estate together after her brother, Monty, runs off, her father is pushing her into a match with a wealthy industrialist, and hoping for her work to be listened to has been tough. The new groom, Will - the first new servant in years - seems to be someone Lucy can trust, and when she needs to journey into the dangerous St Giles area of London, there's no one else she would rather ask. But Will is not only a groom. He is in fact William Lockhart, Earl of Kyle, working for the Crown to discover who is poisoning members of the Linnean Society, and threatening Charles Darwin. He has suspicions of the baron, and maybe even Lucy, and needs to rule them out, one way or another. Will has always been able to keep his head on even the toughest of missions, but around Lucy, it's proving to be his hardest case even.
Well, this was phenomenal. I honestly could not put the book down. From the first meeting of Lucy and Will, it was clear that their story was going to be filled with twists and turns, and one for the ages. Lucy had been forced to take on more and more responsibility for the household when her mother died, and then her father came into money worries, and more and more staff were let go. She's a jack of all trades, and now has lost her brother who she relied on. She needs help, and Will appears at the perfect moment. Though he's keeping a secret, and is convinced that the baron has some role in the poisonings, he can't abide seeing Lucy suffer, and is ready and willing to help when she finally asks. He is possessive in a way he's never been before, but he knows that Lucy is strong and capable, but seeing her in danger is a step too far. I loved that when Will finally revealed the truth of who he was, he was honest and open about everything, and brought Lucy into his plans. Rather than sheltering her, he supported Lucy and pushed her ideas forward to his superiors. He was Lucy's biggest champion, and someone who she needed after so long. The mystery was great, though I had guessed at who the villain was. Even so, I'm really looking forward to book 3!
February 7, 2023
This book is just a big warm hug.
I was so lucky to get chosen to read an ARC of this wonderful second installment of the Byronic book club series. Just when I thought it couldn’t possibly be better than Up all night with a good Duke, this just knocks that one right out of the park.
I really liked the low angst but still engaging mystery-murder solving plot. I love a good ‘who-dunnit’ story and this book kept me on the edge on my seat and I wanted to read it one sitting without being interrupted. Also, who doesn’t love a good bodyguard story?
The realistic characters, the lgbtq+ representation, the faults we have as humans and accepting that we make mistakes. This was excellent.
I just adore Lucy. It’s very hard to write a likeable bluestocking character and there was some discussion on the historical romance society discord about how difficult it actually is to walk the fine line between too endearing and condescending eccentric.
In my opinion, Lucy knocks it out of the park. The way she struggles with wanting her independence to go to foreign countries and do her botanical studies there, but also her love for Will and how she might make it work and have both feels so real. The made up curse words made me snort multiple times, fuddling fiddlesticks! She also is a bit older and I like my MC’s to be around the age of 30. The way she stands up for herself is so good to read. If you loved Violet from The Countess Conspiracy by Courtney Milan you will adore Lucy.
Then let’s talk about Will; he is just a big cinnamon roll and so gone for Lucy and it’s adorable. He doesn’t give a damn that she’s smarter than him and supports her scientific endeavors and battles. I gave him huge bonus points for telling her his true identity halfway through the book. I laughed so hard about the warm milk at the end.
I only felt a bit disappointed with the end of the book and felt like his family history and resolve was wound up too quickly. I wanted more, I wanted to see him go up to his grandfather and confront him about everything that happened.
I want to talk about this book for hours, but it will just be more and more praise.
Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for giving me an ARC for review.
I was so lucky to get chosen to read an ARC of this wonderful second installment of the Byronic book club series. Just when I thought it couldn’t possibly be better than Up all night with a good Duke, this just knocks that one right out of the park.
I really liked the low angst but still engaging mystery-murder solving plot. I love a good ‘who-dunnit’ story and this book kept me on the edge on my seat and I wanted to read it one sitting without being interrupted. Also, who doesn’t love a good bodyguard story?
The realistic characters, the lgbtq+ representation, the faults we have as humans and accepting that we make mistakes. This was excellent.
I just adore Lucy. It’s very hard to write a likeable bluestocking character and there was some discussion on the historical romance society discord about how difficult it actually is to walk the fine line between too endearing and condescending eccentric.
In my opinion, Lucy knocks it out of the park. The way she struggles with wanting her independence to go to foreign countries and do her botanical studies there, but also her love for Will and how she might make it work and have both feels so real. The made up curse words made me snort multiple times, fuddling fiddlesticks! She also is a bit older and I like my MC’s to be around the age of 30. The way she stands up for herself is so good to read. If you loved Violet from The Countess Conspiracy by Courtney Milan you will adore Lucy.
Then let’s talk about Will; he is just a big cinnamon roll and so gone for Lucy and it’s adorable. He doesn’t give a damn that she’s smarter than him and supports her scientific endeavors and battles. I gave him huge bonus points for telling her his true identity halfway through the book. I laughed so hard about the warm milk at the end.
I only felt a bit disappointed with the end of the book and felt like his family history and resolve was wound up too quickly. I wanted more, I wanted to see him go up to his grandfather and confront him about everything that happened.
I want to talk about this book for hours, but it will just be more and more praise.
Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for giving me an ARC for review.
December 15, 2022
Set in Victorian England in 1858, our heroine Lucy Bertram is a botanist who actually writes her father's books. She is 28 and determined to be a spinster and be a botanist on her own terms.
In a meet cute, her pony cart is mired in mud when along comes William Armstrong to get her on the road again and as he rides back to her home, she discovers the strong, handsome Scott is the new groom.
I do not want to give away the plot, but this is a romance as well as a murder mystery. There is quite a bit of sex, as well as the couple taking a long time to realize they are in love.
I almost forgot, though the author explains at the end that she took some liberties, the botany is very interesting along with discussions of Darwin.
This is the second in the series, and I will be reading the first book soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the EARC for an honest review.
In a meet cute, her pony cart is mired in mud when along comes William Armstrong to get her on the road again and as he rides back to her home, she discovers the strong, handsome Scott is the new groom.
I do not want to give away the plot, but this is a romance as well as a murder mystery. There is quite a bit of sex, as well as the couple taking a long time to realize they are in love.
I almost forgot, though the author explains at the end that she took some liberties, the botany is very interesting along with discussions of Darwin.
This is the second in the series, and I will be reading the first book soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the EARC for an honest review.
February 25, 2023
This is the second book in the Byronic Bookclub series and it was a wonderful addition. I really enjoyed this one.
Lucy is smart and resourceful.
Will is a perfect gentleman.
She is trying to avoid marrying the man her father is pushing her toward.
He is working undercover trying to catch a murderer. All while falling for each other.
Curled Up with an Earl is a beautiful and compelling story from beginning to end. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Lucy is smart and resourceful.
Will is a perfect gentleman.
She is trying to avoid marrying the man her father is pushing her toward.
He is working undercover trying to catch a murderer. All while falling for each other.
Curled Up with an Earl is a beautiful and compelling story from beginning to end. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 25, 2023
3 Stars
There was nothing overly wrong with it, but nothing out of this world either. It was nice, plain, simple, nice. The characters were nice, the plot was nice, and the love was nice-ish. Super vanilla. I wish there were some emotional sprinkles or delicious chocolate chips or gooey cherry syrup to round it out! It felt two-dimensional and stilted at times without the requisite character depth to back it up. Sad, but not giving up on the next one.
There was nothing overly wrong with it, but nothing out of this world either. It was nice, plain, simple, nice. The characters were nice, the plot was nice, and the love was nice-ish. Super vanilla. I wish there were some emotional sprinkles or delicious chocolate chips or gooey cherry syrup to round it out! It felt two-dimensional and stilted at times without the requisite character depth to back it up. Sad, but not giving up on the next one.
February 10, 2023
This is my 15th book by Amy Rose Bennett. She doesn't write a lot of books a year. I read one book in both 2016 and 2017, quite a few in 2019, two in 2020 and back to only one in 2021 and only one in 2022. She definitely spreads her books out. :) The only problem I have with that, is I read over 300 books a year so if the book is a series, it's hard to try and remember what the previous story in the series was about. I did write in my notes that I love her writing and her stories and that she has great characters and good sex scenes. :)
With that being said, I don’t know what it was about this book but I found it a bit boring. I read almost a book a day but this one took me 3 days. There was just never a spot that "grabbed me". It had an interesting storyline and Lucy and Will were good characters but it was just ho-hum. There was even a bit of intrigue and suspense but something was just off. I found it a bit boring.
I get that writing is a difficult job. If it was easy, we would all do it. Hell, I have averaged 32 books a month for the past 6.5 years and I still couldn’t be an author. Every author, even my favorites, always have that 1 or 2 books that aren't my favorite. I say that about this one but I still look forward to her next book.
With that being said, I don’t know what it was about this book but I found it a bit boring. I read almost a book a day but this one took me 3 days. There was just never a spot that "grabbed me". It had an interesting storyline and Lucy and Will were good characters but it was just ho-hum. There was even a bit of intrigue and suspense but something was just off. I found it a bit boring.
I get that writing is a difficult job. If it was easy, we would all do it. Hell, I have averaged 32 books a month for the past 6.5 years and I still couldn’t be an author. Every author, even my favorites, always have that 1 or 2 books that aren't my favorite. I say that about this one but I still look forward to her next book.
January 27, 2023
Delicious!
Be still my beating heart 💜 We have a Scottish groom (horses not marriage) with attitude and a shivery physique; a determined, twenty-eight year old spinster whose life’s work is investigating poisons; an industrialist of slimy manner!! and an unreasonable father whose work is researched by his daughter. Said father is throwing her at the dreaded industrialist Mr. Zachariah Thorne.
William Armstrong is an agent for the crown racing against the clock to discover who’s poisoning highborn members of the Linnaean Society, and also threatened to do in Charles Darwin. Of course he ensconced himself in the house hold of Sir Oswald Bertram. After all SirOswald is the preeminent authority on poisons, all grown in the gardens of Fleetwood Hall. He just hadn’t counted on being blindsided by the ravishing and very different daughter of the house, Lucinda Bertram.
A lively and intriguing read with a swoonworthy hero, frighteningly intelligent and completely adorabable heroine, and a villain worthy of the title with a capital V.
Loved this novel!
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Be still my beating heart 💜 We have a Scottish groom (horses not marriage) with attitude and a shivery physique; a determined, twenty-eight year old spinster whose life’s work is investigating poisons; an industrialist of slimy manner!! and an unreasonable father whose work is researched by his daughter. Said father is throwing her at the dreaded industrialist Mr. Zachariah Thorne.
William Armstrong is an agent for the crown racing against the clock to discover who’s poisoning highborn members of the Linnaean Society, and also threatened to do in Charles Darwin. Of course he ensconced himself in the house hold of Sir Oswald Bertram. After all SirOswald is the preeminent authority on poisons, all grown in the gardens of Fleetwood Hall. He just hadn’t counted on being blindsided by the ravishing and very different daughter of the house, Lucinda Bertram.
A lively and intriguing read with a swoonworthy hero, frighteningly intelligent and completely adorabable heroine, and a villain worthy of the title with a capital V.
Loved this novel!
A Sourcebooks Casablanca ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
April 13, 2023
Academia
I just adore this one (series actually). Lucy is such a strong heroine that you can't stop reading. Will is a Scottish hero through and through. It was a slow burn with a lot of intrigue and so much about poisonous plants that you get to learn about them. I can't wait for Jane's story!
I just adore this one (series actually). Lucy is such a strong heroine that you can't stop reading. Will is a Scottish hero through and through. It was a slow burn with a lot of intrigue and so much about poisonous plants that you get to learn about them. I can't wait for Jane's story!
January 27, 2023
I love historical romances and I love a STEM or academic FMC but I also like her to be strong willed and I just felt like Lucy wasn’t that. She felt naïve, and sometimes silly.
I listened to the audiobook. And I felt that the book itself was a little bit more cheesy than I would like, and it didn’t help that the narrator didn’t voice the characters well. When she was speaking for Lucy, her voice was really high-pitched and sounded really flighty and then when she was talking for Will him it was a really bad Scottish accent.
I’m the end I gave it 3 stars bc I thought the smutty scenes were good. If I had to describe this book in one sentence it would be a murder romance mystery with a glass of smut.
I listened to the audiobook. And I felt that the book itself was a little bit more cheesy than I would like, and it didn’t help that the narrator didn’t voice the characters well. When she was speaking for Lucy, her voice was really high-pitched and sounded really flighty and then when she was talking for Will him it was a really bad Scottish accent.
I’m the end I gave it 3 stars bc I thought the smutty scenes were good. If I had to describe this book in one sentence it would be a murder romance mystery with a glass of smut.
March 6, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
Lucy (h) and Will's (H) romance made for a surprisingly easy read. I thought it might be angsty because it begins with Will undercover as a groom at her father's estate to investigate him for murder. But their relationship, including when he admits the truth to her, was pretty low angst and easy. I liked how intelligent Lucy was and the moments where she was able to shine with her knowledge and capabilities. Her family is in financial straits and she's not sure what's happening with her father so she's unsure about her future. We're told she was awkward and shy, but didn't get to see as many instances of that on page because she felt comfortable with Will fairly quickly. Will had a traumatic past and shunned his aristocratic family so he was pretty down to earth and very capable himself as a former soldier turned spy. They end up teaming up to work on the investigation together once he shares his secrets. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow drama and some om drama from a suitor that h's father is encouraging and makes her uncomfortable. H is not a virgin but has been celibate for a year I think and h is a virgin.
I thought both Lucy and Will were really likable and interesting. I did wish for a deeper emotional connection to their story. I'm not sure if it was because some parts of the story were so easy, the writing style, or just me, but I never really dipped into any strong emotions with this one. Even when the story became more suspenseful and there was an element of danger directed at them. I did like that their physical intimacy was developed easily. There's a spark of instant attraction and while Lucy was a bit awkward at first with that, she embraced her interest as a spinster and given how their chemistry felt. Which meant this was a pretty steamy historical. They both waffle on whether they could have a future together, esp Lucy since she wishes to explore and travel and once she knows Will is a peer she questions if he would support her in that if they married. There's not an angsty feeling about this though. In Will's POV, his thoughts are about not necessarily wanting to be a traditional peer because of his family background either so the reader knows that once they do talk about it, it'll be resolved.
Because Will's a groom for the start of the book and Lucy had a failed Season, there are some slice of life scenes and not much society moments. Investigation-wise, there's a threat to Charles Darwin and some other scientific-minded men so science plays a large role throughout the book. There was also a small mystery involving Lucy's brother, who had left their home unexpectedly. Lucy was trying to reach him out of concern and because her father was pushing a horrendous suitor on her. All of the mysteries and plot lines are resolved by the end though.
Although the series is about a group of childhood friends, there wasn't as much on page time with the friend group as I'd hoped. The friend who was the h of book 1 was on her honeymoon for much of the story and the friend who's the h for book 3 was also dealing with her own things. There are scenes with both friends, but it was just less than I expected. The other investigators and Lucy's family were the primary side characters.
I liked how the climax was handled and specifically Lucy's part in it (being vague). Then they're airing everything out and setting off for their HEA. The epilogue is a few months down the road and I loved that it highlighted an accomplishment of Lucy's and her supportive husband, which left me more satisfied with the ending than if it had gone a different route.
Lucy (h) and Will's (H) romance made for a surprisingly easy read. I thought it might be angsty because it begins with Will undercover as a groom at her father's estate to investigate him for murder. But their relationship, including when he admits the truth to her, was pretty low angst and easy. I liked how intelligent Lucy was and the moments where she was able to shine with her knowledge and capabilities. Her family is in financial straits and she's not sure what's happening with her father so she's unsure about her future. We're told she was awkward and shy, but didn't get to see as many instances of that on page because she felt comfortable with Will fairly quickly. Will had a traumatic past and shunned his aristocratic family so he was pretty down to earth and very capable himself as a former soldier turned spy. They end up teaming up to work on the investigation together once he shares his secrets. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow drama and some om drama from a suitor that h's father is encouraging and makes her uncomfortable. H is not a virgin but has been celibate for a year I think and h is a virgin.
I thought both Lucy and Will were really likable and interesting. I did wish for a deeper emotional connection to their story. I'm not sure if it was because some parts of the story were so easy, the writing style, or just me, but I never really dipped into any strong emotions with this one. Even when the story became more suspenseful and there was an element of danger directed at them. I did like that their physical intimacy was developed easily. There's a spark of instant attraction and while Lucy was a bit awkward at first with that, she embraced her interest as a spinster and given how their chemistry felt. Which meant this was a pretty steamy historical. They both waffle on whether they could have a future together, esp Lucy since she wishes to explore and travel and once she knows Will is a peer she questions if he would support her in that if they married. There's not an angsty feeling about this though. In Will's POV, his thoughts are about not necessarily wanting to be a traditional peer because of his family background either so the reader knows that once they do talk about it, it'll be resolved.
Because Will's a groom for the start of the book and Lucy had a failed Season, there are some slice of life scenes and not much society moments. Investigation-wise, there's a threat to Charles Darwin and some other scientific-minded men so science plays a large role throughout the book. There was also a small mystery involving Lucy's brother, who had left their home unexpectedly. Lucy was trying to reach him out of concern and because her father was pushing a horrendous suitor on her. All of the mysteries and plot lines are resolved by the end though.
Although the series is about a group of childhood friends, there wasn't as much on page time with the friend group as I'd hoped. The friend who was the h of book 1 was on her honeymoon for much of the story and the friend who's the h for book 3 was also dealing with her own things. There are scenes with both friends, but it was just less than I expected. The other investigators and Lucy's family were the primary side characters.
I liked how the climax was handled and specifically Lucy's part in it (being vague). Then they're airing everything out and setting off for their HEA. The epilogue is a few months down the road and I loved that it highlighted an accomplishment of Lucy's and her supportive husband, which left me more satisfied with the ending than if it had gone a different route.
April 17, 2023
I didn’t love this as much as book 1, but this was overall a really solid low angst romance with a bit of mystery/suspense thrown in. I appreciated that the hidden identity plot didn’t last too long and was resolved quickly (yay clear communication!). This also had the perfect amount of steam. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
**thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-arc in exchange for an honest review**
**thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-arc in exchange for an honest review**
February 8, 2023
THE REVIEW
Lucy Bertram is the daughter of a poisonous plant expert scientist, although Lucy writes most of his papers and tends to the garden. She is a shy, independent spinster who enjoys the work she does and would love nothing more than to join the botanical society and travel for scientific expeditions. But, since women are not allowed in to those types of scientific societies, she settles for the accolades her father receives for her research.
William Douglas Lockhart has a tragic past in which he left home and his future as a Scottish duke, after a betrayal by his father and grandfather. He joined the army and then became a spy for the Crown. A job which lead him to Lucy’s door. He poses as a stable groom to spy on Lucy’s father as he believes he is responsible for a murder.
What neither of them expected was the instant attraction they both felt and the trust and friendship that developed into love. Together they search the seedy parts of London for Lucy’s estranged brother, Will helps her evade the attentions of a dangerous man who is trying to court her, and eventually she even helps Will with his investigation!
The first half of the book kind of dragged on a bit for me, but I am not going to put too much emphasis on my feelings about that because it was a weekend full of interruptions. When I start a book, I like to have a few hours of time to get several chapters in so I can focus on the setup. That didn’t happen this time, unfortunately. But, once I got into the action of the second half, I was all in with Lucy and Will! Both independent and the ‘never getting married’ sort, they were a fun couple to read about. They didn’t try to fight the attraction afraid to would lead to marriage, but they came to a mutual understanding. In the end, I think they both changed their minds about marriage when they remembered what it felt like to have a family. Someone to take care of you and worry about you. And I LOVE that type of turnaround; one where the characters are much in love, but it’s even deeper than that, it’s a state of being. A love you create for yourself, not just the love you have for the other person. It was such a sweet romance.
TROPES
Historical Romance, Victorian Era, Country Life, East End London, Detective Hero, Highland Warrior Hero, Soldier/War Hero, Titled Hero, Bluestocking Heroine, Scientist Heroine, Spinster Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Fake Relationship, Instant Attraction, Hidden Identity, Mystery Romance, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Five Star, Three Flame
Lucy Bertram is the daughter of a poisonous plant expert scientist, although Lucy writes most of his papers and tends to the garden. She is a shy, independent spinster who enjoys the work she does and would love nothing more than to join the botanical society and travel for scientific expeditions. But, since women are not allowed in to those types of scientific societies, she settles for the accolades her father receives for her research.
William Douglas Lockhart has a tragic past in which he left home and his future as a Scottish duke, after a betrayal by his father and grandfather. He joined the army and then became a spy for the Crown. A job which lead him to Lucy’s door. He poses as a stable groom to spy on Lucy’s father as he believes he is responsible for a murder.
What neither of them expected was the instant attraction they both felt and the trust and friendship that developed into love. Together they search the seedy parts of London for Lucy’s estranged brother, Will helps her evade the attentions of a dangerous man who is trying to court her, and eventually she even helps Will with his investigation!
The first half of the book kind of dragged on a bit for me, but I am not going to put too much emphasis on my feelings about that because it was a weekend full of interruptions. When I start a book, I like to have a few hours of time to get several chapters in so I can focus on the setup. That didn’t happen this time, unfortunately. But, once I got into the action of the second half, I was all in with Lucy and Will! Both independent and the ‘never getting married’ sort, they were a fun couple to read about. They didn’t try to fight the attraction afraid to would lead to marriage, but they came to a mutual understanding. In the end, I think they both changed their minds about marriage when they remembered what it felt like to have a family. Someone to take care of you and worry about you. And I LOVE that type of turnaround; one where the characters are much in love, but it’s even deeper than that, it’s a state of being. A love you create for yourself, not just the love you have for the other person. It was such a sweet romance.
TROPES
Historical Romance, Victorian Era, Country Life, East End London, Detective Hero, Highland Warrior Hero, Soldier/War Hero, Titled Hero, Bluestocking Heroine, Scientist Heroine, Spinster Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Fake Relationship, Instant Attraction, Hidden Identity, Mystery Romance, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Five Star, Three Flame
February 11, 2023
Back with the Byronic Book Club after Artemis's romance in the first book, this book is with her friend Lucy.
I always appreciate an Earl (Duke) in disguise. Though this one is a spy for the crown and trying to stop a murderer before they strike again. In his undercover work he meets Lucy, a Baronet's daughter and her old spinster self is feeling the feels for the first time. So at 28 Lucy is well on the shelf lol. Though her father is trying to push her off onto some gross guy (honestly no one likes that guy), and she's desperately searching for her brother who left a year ago and hasn't communicated.
Loved the reveal of the Earl, the sweet budding love lol sorry, this was steamy and they was being real improper. Love the multi pov so you can see inside his thoughts cause in these books the gentleman is usually so rigid 😉 you don't know what they are thinking.
Read if you like:
💞 Duke in disguise
💞 Multi POV
💞 Stem ladies
Thank you sourcebookscasa and netgalley for the e-ARC for the honest and voluntary review.
I always appreciate an Earl (Duke) in disguise. Though this one is a spy for the crown and trying to stop a murderer before they strike again. In his undercover work he meets Lucy, a Baronet's daughter and her old spinster self is feeling the feels for the first time. So at 28 Lucy is well on the shelf lol. Though her father is trying to push her off onto some gross guy (honestly no one likes that guy), and she's desperately searching for her brother who left a year ago and hasn't communicated.
Loved the reveal of the Earl, the sweet budding love lol sorry, this was steamy and they was being real improper. Love the multi pov so you can see inside his thoughts cause in these books the gentleman is usually so rigid 😉 you don't know what they are thinking.
Read if you like:
💞 Duke in disguise
💞 Multi POV
💞 Stem ladies
Thank you sourcebookscasa and netgalley for the e-ARC for the honest and voluntary review.
January 27, 2023
(3.5 Stars) I happily picked up this second book in the Byronic Book Club series. The series focus on three friends who in their late 20’s form their own club. Miss Lucy Bertram is loves botany and has been her father’s research assistant for years. She mostly wrote the book on poisons that brought him acclaim. She wants nothing more than to continue writing science articles. But her brother is now estranged and her father is forcing her to accept the suit of a man she doesn’t like. She isn’t sure where to turn.
William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle arrives at Bertram’s house as an a groomsman. But he is really an agent for the crown looking for evidence of murder after a Lord is poisoned. It isn’t long before Lucy and he team up. He to help her find her brother and she to help him investigate the poisoning. I enjoyed the story but I missed the humor and wordplay that the characters had in Up All Night with a Good Duke. Lucy does have some fun curse curse words but the focus is more on the investigation. (Which isn’t hard to solve.) There is heat good chemistry between Lucy and Will. The book can be read as a stand alone but the Artemis, now a Duchess from book one makes appearances. I am looking forward to Jane’s story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle arrives at Bertram’s house as an a groomsman. But he is really an agent for the crown looking for evidence of murder after a Lord is poisoned. It isn’t long before Lucy and he team up. He to help her find her brother and she to help him investigate the poisoning. I enjoyed the story but I missed the humor and wordplay that the characters had in Up All Night with a Good Duke. Lucy does have some fun curse curse words but the focus is more on the investigation. (Which isn’t hard to solve.) There is heat good chemistry between Lucy and Will. The book can be read as a stand alone but the Artemis, now a Duchess from book one makes appearances. I am looking forward to Jane’s story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2023
Well this book melted my heart and filled me with the softest fluff! You really cannot go wrong when sparks fly right from the meet cute and the electricity between MCs zaps you into attention. The secret identity had me squealing and I adored how the reveal was handled! Give me angst with low drama any day and I’ll be happy.
Lucy was so fun with her poisonous botanical “hobby”—ahem secret career. Will was a swoon-worthy covert agent of the crown with an additional hidden identity (gasp!). They fit so perfectly together my heart squeezed with each little moment between them. Their chemistry translated into some fantastic steam and their connection had depth so I really felt they were MFEO. I wasn’t really paying attention to mystery plot by the end since it was too obvious but I was satisfied with the ending.
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Audio: 👍🏼 (liked)
Narrated by Sasha Higgins
Thank you to the publisher for the advance reader copy via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
Lucy was so fun with her poisonous botanical “hobby”—ahem secret career. Will was a swoon-worthy covert agent of the crown with an additional hidden identity (gasp!). They fit so perfectly together my heart squeezed with each little moment between them. Their chemistry translated into some fantastic steam and their connection had depth so I really felt they were MFEO. I wasn’t really paying attention to mystery plot by the end since it was too obvious but I was satisfied with the ending.
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Audio: 👍🏼 (liked)
Narrated by Sasha Higgins
Thank you to the publisher for the advance reader copy via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
February 1, 2023
Thank you #NetGalley for the advanced copy of #CurledUpWithAnEarl by Amy Rose Bennett in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I have to say that this series is so good! I just read book 1 (Up All Night With a Good Duke) a couple of days ago and this one is just as wonderful as the first in the series. I really like Bennett's prose. Her characters are fun, interesting, delightful and real. I love characters that I can relate to even though they are living in such a different world than I do. And can I just say that Ms. Bennett doesn't just tease you, she delivers and when she delivers, wow! You won't be disappointed.
I love this book group and how encouraging they are of each other. I can't wait for book 3 in this series (Jane's book). I'm also hoping we get Monty's story as well sometime. And oh wow, is that Will a total dreamboat. He is like an alpha cinnamon roll, if that's even possible.
First off, I have to say that this series is so good! I just read book 1 (Up All Night With a Good Duke) a couple of days ago and this one is just as wonderful as the first in the series. I really like Bennett's prose. Her characters are fun, interesting, delightful and real. I love characters that I can relate to even though they are living in such a different world than I do. And can I just say that Ms. Bennett doesn't just tease you, she delivers and when she delivers, wow! You won't be disappointed.
I love this book group and how encouraging they are of each other. I can't wait for book 3 in this series (Jane's book). I'm also hoping we get Monty's story as well sometime. And oh wow, is that Will a total dreamboat. He is like an alpha cinnamon roll, if that's even possible.
February 3, 2023
Miss Lucy Bertram is content to spend her days writing scientific articles or curling up with a Gothic romance novel. When her father, the eccentric botanist Sir Oswald, insists she accept the suit of a wealthy industrialist to save the family from penury, Lucy decides to act. She's certain her disowned brother, Monty, will take her side. But first she must find him in St. Giles's cutthroat rookeries. A covert agent for the Crown, William Lockhart, the Earl of Kyle, is on the hunt for a ruthless killer determined to destroy the Linnean Society. Sir Oswald, a botanical poisons expert, is the prime suspect. Posing as a groom in the baronet's household, it shouldn't take Will long to unearth the evidence Scotland Yard needs. If only the beguiling Miss Bertram wasn't so damn distracting…
As an unexpected but undeniable passion flares between Lucy and Will, confidences are exchanged and dark secrets come to light.
The second book in the series & it could easily be read on its own. Another very well written romance with strong characters & love them or hate them, they were all well portrayed. I loved both Will & Lucy, they were perfect for each other, they were mature & they actually talked – yes they talked so there wasn’t the angst from miscommunication, which was very welcome & refreshingly different. I loved the chemistry between the pair & loved their journey to a HEA. I highly recommend this book it was just a joy to read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
As an unexpected but undeniable passion flares between Lucy and Will, confidences are exchanged and dark secrets come to light.
The second book in the series & it could easily be read on its own. Another very well written romance with strong characters & love them or hate them, they were all well portrayed. I loved both Will & Lucy, they were perfect for each other, they were mature & they actually talked – yes they talked so there wasn’t the angst from miscommunication, which was very welcome & refreshingly different. I loved the chemistry between the pair & loved their journey to a HEA. I highly recommend this book it was just a joy to read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
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