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Lustful Lords #1
His Hand-Me-Down Countess
alternate cover edition of ASIN B0892QZQGQ
His brother's untimely death leaves him with an Earldom and a fianc茅e. Too bad he wants neither of them...
Theodora Lawton has no need of a husband. As an independent woman, she wants to own property, make investments and be the master of her destiny. Unfortunately, her father signed her life away in a marriage contract to the future Earl of Stonemere. But then the cad upped and died, leaving her fate in the hands of his brother, one of the renowned Lustful Lords.
Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere, is far more prepared to be a soldier than a peer. Deeply scarred by his last tour of duty, he knows he will never be a proper, upstanding pillar of the empire. Balanced on the edge of madness, he finds respite by keeping a tight rein on his life, both in and out of the bedroom. His brother鈥檚 death has left him with responsibilities he never wanted and isn鈥檛 prepared to handle in the respectable manner expected of a peer.
Further complicating his new life is an unwanted fianc茅e who comes with his equally unwanted title. Saddled with a hand-me-down countess, he soon discovers the woman is a force unto herself. As he grapples with the burden of his new responsibilities, he discovers someone wants him dead. The question is, can he stay alive long enough to figure out who鈥檚 trying to kill him while he tries to tame his headstrong wife?
His brother's untimely death leaves him with an Earldom and a fianc茅e. Too bad he wants neither of them...
Theodora Lawton has no need of a husband. As an independent woman, she wants to own property, make investments and be the master of her destiny. Unfortunately, her father signed her life away in a marriage contract to the future Earl of Stonemere. But then the cad upped and died, leaving her fate in the hands of his brother, one of the renowned Lustful Lords.
Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere, is far more prepared to be a soldier than a peer. Deeply scarred by his last tour of duty, he knows he will never be a proper, upstanding pillar of the empire. Balanced on the edge of madness, he finds respite by keeping a tight rein on his life, both in and out of the bedroom. His brother鈥檚 death has left him with responsibilities he never wanted and isn鈥檛 prepared to handle in the respectable manner expected of a peer.
Further complicating his new life is an unwanted fianc茅e who comes with his equally unwanted title. Saddled with a hand-me-down countess, he soon discovers the woman is a force unto herself. As he grapples with the burden of his new responsibilities, he discovers someone wants him dead. The question is, can he stay alive long enough to figure out who鈥檚 trying to kill him while he tries to tame his headstrong wife?
ebook
First published September 20, 2017
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About the author
Sorcha Mowbray
33听books143听followersSorcha Mowbray is a mild mannered office worker by day鈥kay, so she is actually a mouthy, opinionated, take charge kind of gal who bosses everyone around; but she definitely works in an office. At night she writes romance so hot she sets the sheets on fire! Just ask her slightly singed husband.
She is a long time lover of historical romance, having grown up reading Johanna Lindsey and Judith McNaught. Then she discovered Thea Devine and Susan Johnson. Holy cow! Heroes and heroines could do THAT? From there, things devolved into trying her hand at writing a little smexy. Needless to say, she liked it and she hopes you do too!
She is a long time lover of historical romance, having grown up reading Johanna Lindsey and Judith McNaught. Then she discovered Thea Devine and Susan Johnson. Holy cow! Heroes and heroines could do THAT? From there, things devolved into trying her hand at writing a little smexy. Needless to say, she liked it and she hopes you do too!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
April 22, 2018
Well, I'm trying REALLY hard to be very nice, politically correct and pleasant right now. I'm even pasting on the fake smile for an added bonus:
But it's kinda HARD to fake the smile and pleasantries when the "F" word is going off like landmines in my brain right now. Why ? Because the blurb on this novel FAILED to indicate that there was going to be a menage mfm scene where the H shares the heroine with his best friend.
First of all, I don't read menage romance at all. It's a personal preference and I tend to read a lot of historical romances because I expect them to be menage free. I've come across BDSM and menage in historical romances before but the blurbs for those novels have usually indicated that those things would be included. Therefore, I didn't add those books to my reading list. This specific novel's blurb provided NO information or even a hint that there was going to be menage. There's also an opening scene that's distasteful because the H is in a sleazy sex club having public sex with a whore. I really hate when authors write these conventional blurbs for their novels that are missing critical information ( like menage ). Do I have anything against personal against menage books?
I just prefer my basic mf type of romance. If the author had been smart enough to include the menage information in the blurb, then she wouldn't be getting a 1 star review from me. The thing is this: I usually stick only to what I like and I would've avoided this novel had I known that menage was included.
Let this be a warning to authors to add the relevant trigger information in their blurbs. It will save them from getting 1 star reviews from pissed off readers like myself.
But it's kinda HARD to fake the smile and pleasantries when the "F" word is going off like landmines in my brain right now. Why ? Because the blurb on this novel FAILED to indicate that there was going to be a menage mfm scene where the H shares the heroine with his best friend.
First of all, I don't read menage romance at all. It's a personal preference and I tend to read a lot of historical romances because I expect them to be menage free. I've come across BDSM and menage in historical romances before but the blurbs for those novels have usually indicated that those things would be included. Therefore, I didn't add those books to my reading list. This specific novel's blurb provided NO information or even a hint that there was going to be menage. There's also an opening scene that's distasteful because the H is in a sleazy sex club having public sex with a whore. I really hate when authors write these conventional blurbs for their novels that are missing critical information ( like menage ). Do I have anything against personal against menage books?
I just prefer my basic mf type of romance. If the author had been smart enough to include the menage information in the blurb, then she wouldn't be getting a 1 star review from me. The thing is this: I usually stick only to what I like and I would've avoided this novel had I known that menage was included.
Let this be a warning to authors to add the relevant trigger information in their blurbs. It will save them from getting 1 star reviews from pissed off readers like myself.
September 16, 2017
3.5 STARS
I love a sexy historical romance, and Sorcha Mowbray has me hooked with book one in her Lustful Lords series. The series title is definitely appropriate, because this book isn't just hot, it's SCORCHING.
Aptly dubbed as one of the Lustful Lords, known for their sexual debauchary, Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere is anything but proper.
His brother's death leaves him forced to take a title he never desired, and wed a woman that would likely be scandalized down to her bones if she ever learned his true nature. Shy and sweet Theodora Lawton was once his brother's finance and in Stone's opinion, was a better match for his brother than him. But duty is duty and The House Of Lords made their decision and he has a duty to uphold.
But sweet and soft spoken Theo is not at all what she seems. Beneath the manners and the innocent beauty is a tigress; a woman that has a wild streak as large as her independent one. She knows her new husband isn't giving her everything that he is, and she's determined to bring the beast out.
This was a ridiculously sexy romance with a delicious mix of BDSM elements. Stone is controlling, domineering, protective, and if it takes a proper spanking to make his sassy wife see reason, he's not afraid to get his hands dirty. Theo is not afraid to give as hard as she gets, and let me just tell you, she gets it HARD. Uhem. *dirty grin*
While the sex was super hot, at times it was too much and distracted from the story. Though if you like super sexy reads, you definitely won't be complaining. I'm just pickier than most *sheepish grin*
The suspense part of the story felt a bit on the slow side, but I appreciated the way the author resolved it. She wrote one empowered heroine with Theo and I got to love that.
Sorcha definitely has a new fan in this reader and I can't wait for more in this series and more of deliciously kinky Lusty Lords (particularly since one hints at an MMF situation). If you like super hot historical romances, this one will definitely hit the spot.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
He hadn鈥檛 claimed her as truly his, and he did not suspect he ever would in any way that satisfied his sexual hunger. He doubted his pretty wife would appreciate how he wanted to strap her to his bed and demand she acknowledge him as her lord and master in the most primeval of ways.
I love a sexy historical romance, and Sorcha Mowbray has me hooked with book one in her Lustful Lords series. The series title is definitely appropriate, because this book isn't just hot, it's SCORCHING.
Aptly dubbed as one of the Lustful Lords, known for their sexual debauchary, Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere is anything but proper.
His brother's death leaves him forced to take a title he never desired, and wed a woman that would likely be scandalized down to her bones if she ever learned his true nature. Shy and sweet Theodora Lawton was once his brother's finance and in Stone's opinion, was a better match for his brother than him. But duty is duty and The House Of Lords made their decision and he has a duty to uphold.
But sweet and soft spoken Theo is not at all what she seems. Beneath the manners and the innocent beauty is a tigress; a woman that has a wild streak as large as her independent one. She knows her new husband isn't giving her everything that he is, and she's determined to bring the beast out.
This was a ridiculously sexy romance with a delicious mix of BDSM elements. Stone is controlling, domineering, protective, and if it takes a proper spanking to make his sassy wife see reason, he's not afraid to get his hands dirty. Theo is not afraid to give as hard as she gets, and let me just tell you, she gets it HARD. Uhem. *dirty grin*
While the sex was super hot, at times it was too much and distracted from the story. Though if you like super sexy reads, you definitely won't be complaining. I'm just pickier than most *sheepish grin*
The suspense part of the story felt a bit on the slow side, but I appreciated the way the author resolved it. She wrote one empowered heroine with Theo and I got to love that.
Sorcha definitely has a new fan in this reader and I can't wait for more in this series and more of deliciously kinky Lusty Lords (particularly since one hints at an MMF situation). If you like super hot historical romances, this one will definitely hit the spot.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
November 18, 2023
London, May 1859
鈥淥n your knees.鈥�
What a way to begin a story 馃敟
I鈥檓 starting to realize that in the past, I鈥檝e read too much mediocre historical erotica. I鈥檝e definitely read some gems, but usually end up reading something with a thin plot, marginally interesting characters and lots of explicit sex. Kind of like a fast food meal that fills your belly but doesn鈥檛 really satisfy.
His Hand-Me-Down Countess was a feast for the senses that puts that fast food meal to shame.
It was, in my opinion, the perfect example of what historical erotica should be. Yes, it had adventurous, smokin hot dirty sex, but it was also so much more.
Stonemere (Stone) and Theodora (Theo) were wonderful characters written with depth and complexity.
Theo had been betrothed to an earl who was declared dead when his ship went down (yeah, you know how that 鈥渄eclared dead but no body鈥� trope usually works out). Stone, being the second son, became the new earl and decided to honor the commitment and marry his dead brother鈥檚 betrothed. He knew that would mean giving up wild, debauched nights spent at a sex club with his wicked friends, the Lustful Lords, but he was willing to stifle that part of himself and do the right thing.
Stone was absolutely everything you could wish for in a dominant man. More gamma than alpha, he was confident, very sexy, attentive, in charge and in control. Part of his story arc centered on a very realistic portrayal of a former soldier struggling with PTSD, battling demons, determined to keep his trauma locked down tight. His desire and need for sexual control were his way of coping. Thankfully outside the bedroom, he for the most part treated Theo as an equal. In his bed though, was a very different power dynamic.
Theodora was a perfect match for him and such a likeable character. She was a very innocent virgin when they married but Stone quickly recognized her inner fire and did his best to encourage that side of her. His conflict, though, was that while their lovemaking was hot and mutually satisfying, he was afraid she鈥檇 reject him if he showed his true self in bed. The beast, the man who wanted nothing less than her total submission. Who wanted to tie her up and show her no mercy. Who wanted to bang her silly and have her gasping for more. Who longed to take her for a walk on the wild side.
The flush that tinted her cheeks pleased him as much as her delight in the necklace. If he had his way, she鈥檇 wear [the sapphires] everywhere as a kind of mark that she belonged to him. Nothing stated that a woman was unavailable as clearly as an expensive bauble encircling her neck. It was a stamp of ownership that he desperately wanted on her body.
Her sexual awakening was a delicious journey and her husband the perfect guide. The more she trusted him, the more adventurous she became, and the more adventurous she became, the more he realized she was everything he ever wanted in a woman and he began to feel comfortable unleashing the full force of his sexually dominant nature.
鈥淭hank you, my lord.鈥� 鈥淢mmm. I do like the sound of that on your lips. But, when we are alone, I prefer you call me Master. Is that clear?鈥� Theo nodded. 鈥淪ay it, pet. Say, 鈥榊es, Master.鈥欌€� He led her to the bed. 鈥淵es, Master.鈥�
Theo鈥檚 acceptance of the real Stone was a powerful healing force for him, and the catalyst for an intense, all-consuming love. I really liked the realism of the early days of their marriage. The giddy moments, the self-doubt, small misunderstandings, acts of kindness and tenderness as they came to know each other and adjust to married life.
The path to their HEA was bumpy at times, and there was a big (unsurprising) twist, but their love was true and their bond unbreakeable.
This was my first Sorcha Mowbray book and I鈥檓 going to be reading the rest of the series, which star the other Lustful Lords.
鈥淢aster, while I鈥檒l agree that I am without question yours, I would also stake my own claim on you. You, my lord, are mine. I own you, your pleasure, and all it entails.鈥� Then she pressed a kiss to his chin followed by one to the exposed flesh of his chest. Delight spread over him like a fine cloak and warmed him. They belonged to each other. 鈥淵es, Theo. I also belong to you. Never doubt it.鈥� They lay there, quiet in the aftermath of what they had shared, and reveled in the peace. Never had he experienced such utter calm and contentment.
Don鈥檛 settle for mediocre historical erotica; read this instead.
鈥淥n your knees.鈥�
What a way to begin a story 馃敟
I鈥檓 starting to realize that in the past, I鈥檝e read too much mediocre historical erotica. I鈥檝e definitely read some gems, but usually end up reading something with a thin plot, marginally interesting characters and lots of explicit sex. Kind of like a fast food meal that fills your belly but doesn鈥檛 really satisfy.
His Hand-Me-Down Countess was a feast for the senses that puts that fast food meal to shame.
It was, in my opinion, the perfect example of what historical erotica should be. Yes, it had adventurous, smokin hot dirty sex, but it was also so much more.
Stonemere (Stone) and Theodora (Theo) were wonderful characters written with depth and complexity.
Theo had been betrothed to an earl who was declared dead when his ship went down (yeah, you know how that 鈥渄eclared dead but no body鈥� trope usually works out). Stone, being the second son, became the new earl and decided to honor the commitment and marry his dead brother鈥檚 betrothed. He knew that would mean giving up wild, debauched nights spent at a sex club with his wicked friends, the Lustful Lords, but he was willing to stifle that part of himself and do the right thing.
Stone was absolutely everything you could wish for in a dominant man. More gamma than alpha, he was confident, very sexy, attentive, in charge and in control. Part of his story arc centered on a very realistic portrayal of a former soldier struggling with PTSD, battling demons, determined to keep his trauma locked down tight. His desire and need for sexual control were his way of coping. Thankfully outside the bedroom, he for the most part treated Theo as an equal. In his bed though, was a very different power dynamic.
Theodora was a perfect match for him and such a likeable character. She was a very innocent virgin when they married but Stone quickly recognized her inner fire and did his best to encourage that side of her. His conflict, though, was that while their lovemaking was hot and mutually satisfying, he was afraid she鈥檇 reject him if he showed his true self in bed. The beast, the man who wanted nothing less than her total submission. Who wanted to tie her up and show her no mercy. Who wanted to bang her silly and have her gasping for more. Who longed to take her for a walk on the wild side.
The flush that tinted her cheeks pleased him as much as her delight in the necklace. If he had his way, she鈥檇 wear [the sapphires] everywhere as a kind of mark that she belonged to him. Nothing stated that a woman was unavailable as clearly as an expensive bauble encircling her neck. It was a stamp of ownership that he desperately wanted on her body.
Her sexual awakening was a delicious journey and her husband the perfect guide. The more she trusted him, the more adventurous she became, and the more adventurous she became, the more he realized she was everything he ever wanted in a woman and he began to feel comfortable unleashing the full force of his sexually dominant nature.
鈥淭hank you, my lord.鈥� 鈥淢mmm. I do like the sound of that on your lips. But, when we are alone, I prefer you call me Master. Is that clear?鈥� Theo nodded. 鈥淪ay it, pet. Say, 鈥榊es, Master.鈥欌€� He led her to the bed. 鈥淵es, Master.鈥�
Theo鈥檚 acceptance of the real Stone was a powerful healing force for him, and the catalyst for an intense, all-consuming love. I really liked the realism of the early days of their marriage. The giddy moments, the self-doubt, small misunderstandings, acts of kindness and tenderness as they came to know each other and adjust to married life.
The path to their HEA was bumpy at times, and there was a big (unsurprising) twist, but their love was true and their bond unbreakeable.
This was my first Sorcha Mowbray book and I鈥檓 going to be reading the rest of the series, which star the other Lustful Lords.
鈥淢aster, while I鈥檒l agree that I am without question yours, I would also stake my own claim on you. You, my lord, are mine. I own you, your pleasure, and all it entails.鈥� Then she pressed a kiss to his chin followed by one to the exposed flesh of his chest. Delight spread over him like a fine cloak and warmed him. They belonged to each other. 鈥淵es, Theo. I also belong to you. Never doubt it.鈥� They lay there, quiet in the aftermath of what they had shared, and reveled in the peace. Never had he experienced such utter calm and contentment.
Don鈥檛 settle for mediocre historical erotica; read this instead.
January 19, 2018
Warning, spoilers will follow.
The Lustful lords are indeed very lustful. We can be assured of that by the orgy that's taking place in the first chapter of the book. I always love getting know the characters by their sexual orientations first. I usually check a book I am about to read for a few words like cheat and another to find out if the book has an unpleasant surprise for me. I found out that there is an M/F/M scene in the book. The thing is I hate M/F/M scenes when we are not talking about a triad. I don't understand why the third person has to be added. In this case, Stone has some regrets so I kinda felt better. Honestly, the whole situation threw me off because there is just so much sex, or thoughts about it and I wasn't able to finish the book. I don't plan on continuing the series or reading a book by this author again. I wanted to read a historical romance and it didn't feel that way. I was in for a kinkier romance, but this book and its kinkiness is not for me. I don't think I will be able to read the whole book even if I take frequent breaks.
The Lustful lords are indeed very lustful. We can be assured of that by the orgy that's taking place in the first chapter of the book. I always love getting know the characters by their sexual orientations first. I usually check a book I am about to read for a few words like cheat and another to find out if the book has an unpleasant surprise for me. I found out that there is an M/F/M scene in the book. The thing is I hate M/F/M scenes when we are not talking about a triad. I don't understand why the third person has to be added. In this case, Stone has some regrets so I kinda felt better. Honestly, the whole situation threw me off because there is just so much sex, or thoughts about it and I wasn't able to finish the book. I don't plan on continuing the series or reading a book by this author again. I wanted to read a historical romance and it didn't feel that way. I was in for a kinkier romance, but this book and its kinkiness is not for me. I don't think I will be able to read the whole book even if I take frequent breaks.
September 19, 2017
Book Review For: His Hand-Me-Down Countess by Sorcha Mowbray 'His Hand-Me-Down Countess' by Sorcha Mowbray is the First Book in the New Series called "Lustful Lords". This is the story of Theodora Lawton and Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere. Achilles and his friends are called the "Lustful Lords' by society and they have lived up to that name. Achilles older brother, Odysseus has died and now he is the Earl of Stonemere. Achilles never thought to take the title but now he has it. Along with the Title is seems he has his brother's future bride. Achilles knows he has to marry to carry on the Title for his family and he might as well marry Theo as another women. Theo is very smart and with her Pin Money has bought land and worked some business deals. Although Theo doesn't want to get married she knows it will open her up to more freedom for her endeavors. Theo and Achilles have met and shared a few society dances but neither really knows the other. Theo knows that she is attracted to Achilles but when it comes closer to their time to actually marry, she ask him if they could not get to know each other better. Achilles finds Theo shy and somewhat attractive at first but when he starts to get to know her, her mind and her temperament he finds she is irresistible. But she would be shocked at his physical needs...or would she? In addition to their hot romance there is someone trying to kill Achilles which is adding to the story line in the book. This is my first book by Ms. Mowbray but I plan on reading more books as soon as I can!Lustful Lords: Who are they?,Achilles Denton, the Earl of StonemereRobert Cooper the Earl of Brougham Matthew Derby of Marquess of FlinshireGrayson Powell, Viscount of Wolfington Marion Thomas, Baron Linolnshire I hope to read their story soon!~"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
September 1, 2021
Overall: 3.5 rounded to 猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍
Plot/Storyline: 馃摉馃摉馃摉
Feels: 馃馃馃
Emotional Depth: 馃挃馃挃馃挃
Sexual Tension: 鈿♀殹鈿�
Romance: 馃挒馃挒馃挒
Sensuality: 馃拫馃拫馃拫
Sex Scene Length: 馃崙馃崙馃崙馃崙
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 馃敟馃敟馃敟馃敟馃敟
Humor: Just a touch
Basic plot: Theo has an arranged marriage to the future Earl of Stonemere, but when he dies, a marriage to his younger brother and the new Earl takes place.
Give this a try if you want:
- Very steamy and explicit 鈥� over 10 scenes!
- Kink/bdsm themes in the sex (see locations of kisses/intimate scenes at end of review)
- Ex-soldier hero that deals with PTSD
- You鈥檙e okay with mention of British occupation of India (not discussed in detail, hero remembers the Sepoy Mutiny)
- Victorian time period 鈥� this takes place in 1860
My thoughts:
Well, I knew Sorcha was hot, but I wasn鈥檛 expecting this hot :P This is one of my first introductions into the world of spanking and kink factors. I have read A LOT of vanilla sex. And I was always a little leery of books that explored this. I thought it wasn鈥檛 for me. But you know what? I think it is for me. Hahaha.
I can鈥檛 say I was in love with Theo 鈥� she tended to make a few choices that made me uncomfortable with. But I do think she worked for Stone and that鈥檚 what matters. Stone鈥檚 desire for control helps him deal with his PTSD from the war and he is sure he鈥檒l have to hide that side of himself from his wife. He鈥檚 pleasantly surprised when Theo wants to dive in willingly.
This is a shorter book with A LOT of sex, so I don鈥檛 feel like I know the characters extremely deeply, but I was still happy with their development. I do wish there had been more...鈥檖repping鈥� in some aspects? I also was unsure about Stone fulfilling Theo鈥檚 fantasy. I felt like he wasn鈥檛 100% comfortable with it, so then I wasn鈥檛 100% comfortable with it. Still, overall I thought it was a fun and sexy read and I would definitely try her again! It has made me very curious about more books with kink!
Content warning:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes
Plot/Storyline: 馃摉馃摉馃摉
Feels: 馃馃馃
Emotional Depth: 馃挃馃挃馃挃
Sexual Tension: 鈿♀殹鈿�
Romance: 馃挒馃挒馃挒
Sensuality: 馃拫馃拫馃拫
Sex Scene Length: 馃崙馃崙馃崙馃崙
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 馃敟馃敟馃敟馃敟馃敟
Humor: Just a touch
Basic plot: Theo has an arranged marriage to the future Earl of Stonemere, but when he dies, a marriage to his younger brother and the new Earl takes place.
Give this a try if you want:
- Very steamy and explicit 鈥� over 10 scenes!
- Kink/bdsm themes in the sex (see locations of kisses/intimate scenes at end of review)
- Ex-soldier hero that deals with PTSD
- You鈥檙e okay with mention of British occupation of India (not discussed in detail, hero remembers the Sepoy Mutiny)
- Victorian time period 鈥� this takes place in 1860
My thoughts:
Well, I knew Sorcha was hot, but I wasn鈥檛 expecting this hot :P This is one of my first introductions into the world of spanking and kink factors. I have read A LOT of vanilla sex. And I was always a little leery of books that explored this. I thought it wasn鈥檛 for me. But you know what? I think it is for me. Hahaha.
I can鈥檛 say I was in love with Theo 鈥� she tended to make a few choices that made me uncomfortable with. But I do think she worked for Stone and that鈥檚 what matters. Stone鈥檚 desire for control helps him deal with his PTSD from the war and he is sure he鈥檒l have to hide that side of himself from his wife. He鈥檚 pleasantly surprised when Theo wants to dive in willingly.
This is a shorter book with A LOT of sex, so I don鈥檛 feel like I know the characters extremely deeply, but I was still happy with their development. I do wish there had been more...鈥檖repping鈥� in some aspects? I also was unsure about Stone fulfilling Theo鈥檚 fantasy. I felt like he wasn鈥檛 100% comfortable with it, so then I wasn鈥檛 100% comfortable with it. Still, overall I thought it was a fun and sexy read and I would definitely try her again! It has made me very curious about more books with kink!
Content warning:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes
September 19, 2017
'His Hand-Me-Down Countess' by Sorcha Mowbray is the First Book in the New Series called "Lustful Lords". This is the story of Theodora Lawton and Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere. Achilles and his friends are called the "Lustful Lords' by society and they have lived up to that name.
Achilles older brother, Odysseus has died and now he is the Earl of Stonemere.
Achilles never thought to take the title but now he has it. Along with the Title is seems he has his brother's future bride. Achilles knows he has to marry to carry on the Title for his family and he might as well marry Theo as another women.
Theo is very smart and with her Pin Money has bought land and worked some business deals. Although Theo doesn't want to get married she knows it will open her up to more freedom for her endeavors. Theo and Achilles have met and shared a few society dances but neither really knows the other. Theo knows that she is attracted to Achilles but when it comes closer to their time to actually marry, she ask him if they could not get to know each other better.
Achilles finds Theo shy and somewhat attractive at first but when he starts to get to know her, her mind and her temperament he finds she is irresistible. But she would be shocked at his physical needs...or would she?
In addition to their hot romance there is someone trying to kill Achilles which is adding to the story line in the book.
This is my first book by Ms. Mowbray but I plan on reading more books as soon as I can!
Lustful Lords: Who are they?,
Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere
Robert Cooper the Earl of Brougham
Matthew Derby of Marquess of Flinshire
Grayson Powell, Viscount of Wolfington
Marion Thomas, Baron Linolnshire
I hope to read their story soon!~
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
/user/show/1...
Achilles older brother, Odysseus has died and now he is the Earl of Stonemere.
Achilles never thought to take the title but now he has it. Along with the Title is seems he has his brother's future bride. Achilles knows he has to marry to carry on the Title for his family and he might as well marry Theo as another women.
Theo is very smart and with her Pin Money has bought land and worked some business deals. Although Theo doesn't want to get married she knows it will open her up to more freedom for her endeavors. Theo and Achilles have met and shared a few society dances but neither really knows the other. Theo knows that she is attracted to Achilles but when it comes closer to their time to actually marry, she ask him if they could not get to know each other better.
Achilles finds Theo shy and somewhat attractive at first but when he starts to get to know her, her mind and her temperament he finds she is irresistible. But she would be shocked at his physical needs...or would she?
In addition to their hot romance there is someone trying to kill Achilles which is adding to the story line in the book.
This is my first book by Ms. Mowbray but I plan on reading more books as soon as I can!
Lustful Lords: Who are they?,
Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere
Robert Cooper the Earl of Brougham
Matthew Derby of Marquess of Flinshire
Grayson Powell, Viscount of Wolfington
Marion Thomas, Baron Linolnshire
I hope to read their story soon!~
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
/user/show/1...
February 12, 2022
4 Stars
Content Warning -
- PTSD
- Explicit sexual scenes
- Mild BDSM
- Mild domestic discipline (spanking)
- Sexual games (toys)
- Menag茅 (MFM, consensual)
- Mild voyeurism
- Multiple attempts at murder
It's porn on page baby, but it worked.
My Thoughts
- This is my first book, and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would, it may have been because my expectations were low, as most eroticas lack a solid plot or they skimp on the romance.
- But hey, what do you know? This one had two subplots to go with the scorching hot steam, and there was romance too. And somehow, it all came together to turn in a half-decent HER. Colour me happy.
- Generally, the sexual aspects can take over a story, but here, the author managed to keep it separate and yet together with the romance. Yes, Stone & Theo enjoyed their play, but I felt that they deeply cared about each other and were completely in love with each other as well.
- Even though Stone was a dominating fellow, he was also a typical husband who was afraid of his wife getting angry at him or was worried when she was hurt. I admire this author for managing to split Stone's sexual dominating side for him out worldly personality. He was as sweet as he was sexy.
- Theo was a strong heroine. She was a good match for Stone. Whilst exploring her sexuality, her character came into her own. The submissiveness honed her strength and did not turn her into a whiny cry baby. I have to admire the author's skill in this because, in some of the other books I have read in this genre, the heroine is quite wimpy.
- The problem with this story was the pacing. It was too slow to evolve concerning the villain and its resolution and also with declarations of love. Also, the thing with Odey was unnecessary. This story needed to be crisp and would have worked wonders if it had been a little shorter.
My Recommendation
A nice HER that I enjoyed reading so much that I have come to think of the author's name as "Scorcha" on account of the scorching hot steam. Whenever I shall consider reading kinky erotica, this author shall be in my top consideration.
Content Warning -
- PTSD
- Explicit sexual scenes
- Mild BDSM
- Mild domestic discipline (spanking)
- Sexual games (toys)
- Menag茅 (MFM, consensual)
- Mild voyeurism
- Multiple attempts at murder
It's porn on page baby, but it worked.
My Thoughts
- This is my first book, and I enjoyed it more than I thought I would, it may have been because my expectations were low, as most eroticas lack a solid plot or they skimp on the romance.
- But hey, what do you know? This one had two subplots to go with the scorching hot steam, and there was romance too. And somehow, it all came together to turn in a half-decent HER. Colour me happy.
- Generally, the sexual aspects can take over a story, but here, the author managed to keep it separate and yet together with the romance. Yes, Stone & Theo enjoyed their play, but I felt that they deeply cared about each other and were completely in love with each other as well.
- Even though Stone was a dominating fellow, he was also a typical husband who was afraid of his wife getting angry at him or was worried when she was hurt. I admire this author for managing to split Stone's sexual dominating side for him out worldly personality. He was as sweet as he was sexy.
- Theo was a strong heroine. She was a good match for Stone. Whilst exploring her sexuality, her character came into her own. The submissiveness honed her strength and did not turn her into a whiny cry baby. I have to admire the author's skill in this because, in some of the other books I have read in this genre, the heroine is quite wimpy.
- The problem with this story was the pacing. It was too slow to evolve concerning the villain and its resolution and also with declarations of love. Also, the thing with Odey was unnecessary. This story needed to be crisp and would have worked wonders if it had been a little shorter.
My Recommendation
A nice HER that I enjoyed reading so much that I have come to think of the author's name as "Scorcha" on account of the scorching hot steam. Whenever I shall consider reading kinky erotica, this author shall be in my top consideration.
October 4, 2021
Bland erotica does not constitute the plot
Steamy historical romance and the badly plotted and executed story are not the same. Almost every scene is interpersed wth badly written bland p@@n. Characters devolve, especially the heroine. Steamy this may be, but rather as a result of a bad bowel movement, not the writing
Steamy historical romance and the badly plotted and executed story are not the same. Almost every scene is interpersed wth badly written bland p@@n. Characters devolve, especially the heroine. Steamy this may be, but rather as a result of a bad bowel movement, not the writing
May 1, 2024
I really wanted to love this book, and I should have because it has so many things I enjoy: a dominant hero, a heroine who likes being spanked, a marriage of convenience, and a little intrigue to keep it interesting. It even started with an orgy! Unfortunately it suffers from juvenile writing. The biggest problem is the characterization. The hero and heroine do and say what is needed to move the story in a certain direction (or sometimes only to add high drama), rather than because of a consistent personality. They simply don鈥檛 make sense as people. This complicates the next problem with the book, the outlandish scenarios. I can accept a fair amount of obviously improbable actions in historical fiction, but not if I am not even convinced it鈥檚 consistent with the character鈥檚 persona. To make matters worse, more or less every chapter has some event that leads to hysteria from one of the characters, usually the heroine, who massively overreacts to everything and does something stupid. Toddlers have fewer temper tantrums. Despite this, we are told more than once how naturally submissive she is. Perhaps the book could have been saved by the naughty parts, but it wasn鈥檛. First of all a very modern style BDSM relationship was forced into this historical romance, which felt jarring. Then a m茅nage was wedged into the story in a way that did not fit the story. Lastly, all sexy fun times are dropped in the last part of the book so more hysteria and high drama could take over before the characters could declare their love in over the top language. This has been the most disappointing book of the year.
September 1, 2022
Full review coming soon
May 5, 2025
The author is new to me and this was my first book by her and wow what a way to read this book starting with chapter 1!
Theo was engaged to the Earl of Stonemere鈥檚 brother but he passed away. Instead of living an independent life like she wanted, she finds herself engaged to the current Earl! Achilles or like he is better known Stone never wanted to be an Earl he wanted to live his life the way he likes it. Their marriage slowly turns to romance with a lot of steamy love scenes. As the storyline progresses Stone realizes that someone is threatening to kill him. He does not want to put his wife at risk so he leaves London to figure out who it is that wants him dead.
This book was written well I liked it. It had great attention to details. It had a good plot. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend it.
Theo was engaged to the Earl of Stonemere鈥檚 brother but he passed away. Instead of living an independent life like she wanted, she finds herself engaged to the current Earl! Achilles or like he is better known Stone never wanted to be an Earl he wanted to live his life the way he likes it. Their marriage slowly turns to romance with a lot of steamy love scenes. As the storyline progresses Stone realizes that someone is threatening to kill him. He does not want to put his wife at risk so he leaves London to figure out who it is that wants him dead.
This book was written well I liked it. It had great attention to details. It had a good plot. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend it.
September 21, 2021
Very entertaining, very steamy story of Theodora Lawton and Achilles Denton, the Earl of Stonemere. Theo was betrothed to Stone's brother, but when Odysseus died she became Stone's betrothed. Stone was a soldier and after returning home suffers from nightmares. He is trying to hold it all together the only way he knows how, by taking control of everything in his life, including his new bride. Theo is a very strong independent lady who rebels against these controls until she realizes why he does it. Enjoyed the relationship between these two, watching Stone help Theo curb her rash decisions and Theo help Stone let go of the control on his heart. Please note: this book includes BDSM.
January 19, 2023
2 Stars
Super simple review: this, for me, was highly mediocre erotic HR. It felt underdeveloped in the important places and overdeveloped where it didn't need to be. The steam felt forced. The prose was a bit bland.
Super simple review: this, for me, was highly mediocre erotic HR. It felt underdeveloped in the important places and overdeveloped where it didn't need to be. The steam felt forced. The prose was a bit bland.
August 14, 2021
Some of you that follow me on 欧宝娱乐 know me, know my story. I read a ton but suck at reviews. I read a lot of really good authors and books so want to recommend of those reads to others. :) If you've already read my explanation, the actual review is at the bottom :)
If you aren't aware, I read 415 books last year, just over 2000 in 6 years and hundreds and hundreds of different authors over those years. Some authors I read all their books and some are one time reads that I didn't care for. I research any new authors that are recommended to me. Sorcha Mowbray is one of those new authors.
So to help you, as a reader, decide if you might want to read a book I reviewed or not, I'll give you a little history on my style. I don't read a books synopsis anymore. Sometimes they give a way something and I want to be surprised what I'm reading. Since I love most of the authors I read anyway, I don't worry it will be a bad book. I read only read Regency Romances, some Victorian if I love the author (and they don't read "too modern"). I thoroughly research every book I read and every author. I don't like the sweet and nice stories. Some are nice reads but a bit too boring for my tastes. I like a little suspense, intrigue, cussing for you Southern folks and cursing for all others, and definitely sex. I also always love a happy ending...boy meets girl, marries girl, lives happily ever after. How they get there is all part of the fun.
With all that being said, I really, really loved this book. Sorcha was recommended in one of my facebook "book" groups and so I added her to my list. Now that I read this first book and loved it, I will download the rest. I really loved these characters. Stone and Theo were a great pair. I don't mind the 50 Shades style. That doesn't bother me. The only thing that does bother me is when they "share" with others and was glad Stone saw the error of his ways quickly. The characters were well written and was a great read. On to Book 2.
I would definitely recommend this book.
If you aren't aware, I read 415 books last year, just over 2000 in 6 years and hundreds and hundreds of different authors over those years. Some authors I read all their books and some are one time reads that I didn't care for. I research any new authors that are recommended to me. Sorcha Mowbray is one of those new authors.
So to help you, as a reader, decide if you might want to read a book I reviewed or not, I'll give you a little history on my style. I don't read a books synopsis anymore. Sometimes they give a way something and I want to be surprised what I'm reading. Since I love most of the authors I read anyway, I don't worry it will be a bad book. I read only read Regency Romances, some Victorian if I love the author (and they don't read "too modern"). I thoroughly research every book I read and every author. I don't like the sweet and nice stories. Some are nice reads but a bit too boring for my tastes. I like a little suspense, intrigue, cussing for you Southern folks and cursing for all others, and definitely sex. I also always love a happy ending...boy meets girl, marries girl, lives happily ever after. How they get there is all part of the fun.
With all that being said, I really, really loved this book. Sorcha was recommended in one of my facebook "book" groups and so I added her to my list. Now that I read this first book and loved it, I will download the rest. I really loved these characters. Stone and Theo were a great pair. I don't mind the 50 Shades style. That doesn't bother me. The only thing that does bother me is when they "share" with others and was glad Stone saw the error of his ways quickly. The characters were well written and was a great read. On to Book 2.
I would definitely recommend this book.
Read
May 27, 2024I decided to refrain from rating this book. I didn't want my personal preferences to dissuade other potential readers from possibly enjoying it. But I still felt the need to warn others that might have the same preferences as I do.
In all honesty, the writing was good, and the characters seemed interesting enough, which is why I managed to make it to more than 50% of the book, but it just wasn't for me. I had several issues with it, and some content warnings would've been appreciated. I guess I should've known this book wouldn't be for me from the opening scene. The H is in some kind of disreputable club with his friends and they're all engaging in public sex with whores. But although it did teach me to expect a lot of graphic, detailed sex, and even BDSM, I was not expecting a full-on D/s relationship between the H and h. I don't mind BDSM in the bedroom, but a relationship where one has to completely obey the other or 'get punished' just isn't appealing to me. If I'd known this is where the author was going, I wouldn't have picked it up.
In my opinion, this is full-on EROTICA with a splash of Historical Romance, and not the other way around. There is not much else going on plot-wise except the growing D/s relationship between the H and h, so be warned. If that is what you enjoy and what you are looking for, then by all means pick this one up. If not, I'd advise you not to waste your time and to move on to a different book.
In all honesty, the writing was good, and the characters seemed interesting enough, which is why I managed to make it to more than 50% of the book, but it just wasn't for me. I had several issues with it, and some content warnings would've been appreciated. I guess I should've known this book wouldn't be for me from the opening scene. The H is in some kind of disreputable club with his friends and they're all engaging in public sex with whores. But although it did teach me to expect a lot of graphic, detailed sex, and even BDSM, I was not expecting a full-on D/s relationship between the H and h. I don't mind BDSM in the bedroom, but a relationship where one has to completely obey the other or 'get punished' just isn't appealing to me. If I'd known this is where the author was going, I wouldn't have picked it up.
In my opinion, this is full-on EROTICA with a splash of Historical Romance, and not the other way around. There is not much else going on plot-wise except the growing D/s relationship between the H and h, so be warned. If that is what you enjoy and what you are looking for, then by all means pick this one up. If not, I'd advise you not to waste your time and to move on to a different book.
September 26, 2017
It's been a long, long time since I've read a historical romance. Phew, I am so glad I ended that streak by diving into His Hand-Me-Down Countess.
The picture Sorcha Mowbray painted of the time period and the various events and locations truly swept me back to the time period. I loved being a fly on the wall listening to the ton gossips and their ridiculous ridicule of the most trivial things.
But the best part of the book was the character descriptions. I adored Theodora Lawton and her independence. Her joie-de-vivre and no need for a man. Theo was hoping that her marriage would be a love match. But she never expected to find herself discovering her own sexuality. Her own wants and desires.
Achilles Denton finds himself with two unwanted things: a fiance and a title. He's lived the life of a wealthy, single man who's satisfied his urges through the club he and his other Lusty Lords frequent. He's a gentleman with his fiance/wife but a Dominant at the club. How will he justify the sullying of his bride by his lustful thoughts? Lustful wants? Lustful desires? But perhaps he may just find that his Theo desires the same...
Look at me getting all word and harkening back to old writing and words... that's what His Hand-Me-Down Countess has done. It's spun me back in time. A left me wanting more. I loved Stone's controlling ways. Loved how he tried to protect his heart and himself from falling for Theo. Loved how they finally overcame their differences and realized they were perfect for each other. Swoon. I can't wait for the next one. ~ Missy, 4 stars
The picture Sorcha Mowbray painted of the time period and the various events and locations truly swept me back to the time period. I loved being a fly on the wall listening to the ton gossips and their ridiculous ridicule of the most trivial things.
But the best part of the book was the character descriptions. I adored Theodora Lawton and her independence. Her joie-de-vivre and no need for a man. Theo was hoping that her marriage would be a love match. But she never expected to find herself discovering her own sexuality. Her own wants and desires.
Achilles Denton finds himself with two unwanted things: a fiance and a title. He's lived the life of a wealthy, single man who's satisfied his urges through the club he and his other Lusty Lords frequent. He's a gentleman with his fiance/wife but a Dominant at the club. How will he justify the sullying of his bride by his lustful thoughts? Lustful wants? Lustful desires? But perhaps he may just find that his Theo desires the same...
Look at me getting all word and harkening back to old writing and words... that's what His Hand-Me-Down Countess has done. It's spun me back in time. A left me wanting more. I loved Stone's controlling ways. Loved how he tried to protect his heart and himself from falling for Theo. Loved how they finally overcame their differences and realized they were perfect for each other. Swoon. I can't wait for the next one. ~ Missy, 4 stars
September 3, 2021
This book had potential but it ultimately fell short for me. The story opens with an in depth sex scene between the hero and another woman, and all his friends. I鈥檓 all for painting the picture of a real rake, but as far as detail goes, I鈥檇 rather not have to read about the hero and other women intimately in such detail. I could look past it though. So, he decides he鈥檚 going to get married after this to the woman who would鈥檝e married his brother. This is when the problems begin. There is a time jump and they are engaged. But they never talk to one another. But he likes her? And I鈥檓 honestly not sure how all that happens. It鈥檚 almost like all of a sudden he just decides that he actually cares about his soon to be wife and so he stays away from her. Idk-the way the actual attraction forms is just not there. There鈥檚 no build-up for the hero or explanation as to how he feels. In fact, at first it鈥檚 like he is indifferent and then all of a sudden he鈥檚 not, but with no explanation.
The other thing that didn鈥檛 work for me is the heroines side charity with the orphanage. This is because it just seemed like such an after thought. She would sometimes remember that she needed to go by there. And I don鈥檛 understand why she was so upset when she found out Stone bought the land? He obviously bought it for her鈥hat other reason is there? She wasn鈥檛 headstrong enough to actually be that upset about this incident. And I don鈥檛 like it when they hide pregnancies. I think that鈥檚 selfish.
The other thing that didn鈥檛 work for me is the heroines side charity with the orphanage. This is because it just seemed like such an after thought. She would sometimes remember that she needed to go by there. And I don鈥檛 understand why she was so upset when she found out Stone bought the land? He obviously bought it for her鈥hat other reason is there? She wasn鈥檛 headstrong enough to actually be that upset about this incident. And I don鈥檛 like it when they hide pregnancies. I think that鈥檚 selfish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2017
Seeing as this is one of the more explicit historical romances in regards to an orgy that introduces the hero and a host other characters that will dominate future story lines,this book may not appeal to those that seek a more traditional romance.The hero is however totally monogamous once his fate is tied to that of the heroine and the angst is minimal.
October 20, 2022
This was a struggle to get through. The gratuitous sex scenes, the MFM scene, the cheesy 鈥淢aster鈥� trope that made the H come off as shallow and needy; all were just too off-putting. This author is going on my DNR (do not read) list.
Want to read
April 14, 2023馃巵 FREE on Amazon today (9/5/2021)! 馃巵
September 22, 2021
This is a grievously mis-blurbed book. TW for some not-great BDSM and MFM.
September 23, 2017
His Hand-Me-Down Countess by Sorcha Mowbray reminds me of Stephanie Lauren's the Cynsters series (i.e. Devil, Scandal, etc). The Lustful Lords series has that type of hook and book one kicks it off with a bang.
Theo and Stone are one hot couple in and out of bed. I liked that Theo is an independent woman despite the time she lives in and that there's no persuading her when she makes up her mind. The title is indicative their story isn't a love at first sight, but their first night as a couple shows them their marriage might actually work, even without love.
I loved the concept of "The Market" and what people go do there. I think my favorite scene was when Theo takes a private tour of the place. Her curiosity听almost killed me. I just loved how the author worked "what happens at The Market" into the story. I mean, talk about debauchery!
Stone's protectiveness of Theo, and how slowly but surely he realizes there's no other woman for him and he makes sure she understands she's his only was fabulous. He's an alpha male, but there's just something about alphas in historicals I can't explain.
Then there is Cooper, whom I loved. Though, I do wonder if there'll be another play night with Theo and Stone in book 2. Stone is extremely possessive of Theo, but Theo is not a shy woman and she听does enjoy all the little games Stone plays with her. 听
Overall, I enjoyed this book very much and I think any who's been a fan of Stephanie Lauren's the "Cynsters" series would enjoy The Lustful Lords too. 听
Theo and Stone are one hot couple in and out of bed. I liked that Theo is an independent woman despite the time she lives in and that there's no persuading her when she makes up her mind. The title is indicative their story isn't a love at first sight, but their first night as a couple shows them their marriage might actually work, even without love.
I loved the concept of "The Market" and what people go do there. I think my favorite scene was when Theo takes a private tour of the place. Her curiosity听almost killed me. I just loved how the author worked "what happens at The Market" into the story. I mean, talk about debauchery!
Stone's protectiveness of Theo, and how slowly but surely he realizes there's no other woman for him and he makes sure she understands she's his only was fabulous. He's an alpha male, but there's just something about alphas in historicals I can't explain.
Then there is Cooper, whom I loved. Though, I do wonder if there'll be another play night with Theo and Stone in book 2. Stone is extremely possessive of Theo, but Theo is not a shy woman and she听does enjoy all the little games Stone plays with her. 听
Overall, I enjoyed this book very much and I think any who's been a fan of Stephanie Lauren's the "Cynsters" series would enjoy The Lustful Lords too. 听
September 17, 2017
I love historical romances-especially if they're the sexy sort. Sorcha Mowbray's new book, His Hand Me Down Countess is nothing but hot, hot, hot!
A little too much so to the point that it distracted from the book's basic plot.
Theo is a mousy little thing, with a fierce independent streak. Though she may present herself to society as sweet she is anything but. She has a wild side to her, and she is determined to bring out the beast in her new husband. After all he was a member of the notorious Lustful Lords.
Stone was forced to take his title after his older brother died. It was a burden he never wanted. However he assumes the title, his brother's place in The House of Lords. After all, he has a duty to uphold! Knowing he needs a wife to produce an heir, he marries his brother's fianc茅, Theo.
While I loved the sexual aspect of the book, I would have liked to have seen more serious attention given to the sub plots. They needed to interweave through the story line better rather than the "oh by the way..." fashion they were treated. They gave the book an interesting twist and suspense. But by the time they came to be resolved I'd already figured them out.
This was the first book of Sorcha's I've read and I will definitely will be waiting for the rest of the Lustful Lords. It's a super sexy, hot historical romance-not at all what this historical romance addict was expecting, but a delicious change from the norm.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.
A little too much so to the point that it distracted from the book's basic plot.
Theo is a mousy little thing, with a fierce independent streak. Though she may present herself to society as sweet she is anything but. She has a wild side to her, and she is determined to bring out the beast in her new husband. After all he was a member of the notorious Lustful Lords.
Stone was forced to take his title after his older brother died. It was a burden he never wanted. However he assumes the title, his brother's place in The House of Lords. After all, he has a duty to uphold! Knowing he needs a wife to produce an heir, he marries his brother's fianc茅, Theo.
While I loved the sexual aspect of the book, I would have liked to have seen more serious attention given to the sub plots. They needed to interweave through the story line better rather than the "oh by the way..." fashion they were treated. They gave the book an interesting twist and suspense. But by the time they came to be resolved I'd already figured them out.
This was the first book of Sorcha's I've read and I will definitely will be waiting for the rest of the Lustful Lords. It's a super sexy, hot historical romance-not at all what this historical romance addict was expecting, but a delicious change from the norm.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2017
*3.5 stars*
This regency period romance isn't as straightforward as the plot states! For one it has a bit of BDSM elements woven into it, not really that much of a surprise when the first page states this quite so effectively! Start the AC! For another, there is a bit of suspense/mystery going on and this is on top of the very unusual romance between a young lady, smart and desiring of independence from marriage. Theodora Lawton aka Theo has exhausted all possibilities of not going through with her marriage with her second choice fiance. The first one had the misfortune of dying leaving her to deal with his brother who appears less agreeable. Achilles Denton inherited an earldom and a fiance both of which he didn't want. But war takes its toll on everyone, for him, it was his brother and his state of mind. The only thing keeping his control tethered is when he indulges his exotic sexual escapades with his fellow Lustful Lords. Where his new bride fits, he doesn't really know but she just might surprise him! His Hand Me Down Countess definitely entertains because a reader is constantly surprised where the story might lead. The Lustful Lord series is off to a great start with this scorching and engaging read!
*ARC provided*
This regency period romance isn't as straightforward as the plot states! For one it has a bit of BDSM elements woven into it, not really that much of a surprise when the first page states this quite so effectively! Start the AC! For another, there is a bit of suspense/mystery going on and this is on top of the very unusual romance between a young lady, smart and desiring of independence from marriage. Theodora Lawton aka Theo has exhausted all possibilities of not going through with her marriage with her second choice fiance. The first one had the misfortune of dying leaving her to deal with his brother who appears less agreeable. Achilles Denton inherited an earldom and a fiance both of which he didn't want. But war takes its toll on everyone, for him, it was his brother and his state of mind. The only thing keeping his control tethered is when he indulges his exotic sexual escapades with his fellow Lustful Lords. Where his new bride fits, he doesn't really know but she just might surprise him! His Hand Me Down Countess definitely entertains because a reader is constantly surprised where the story might lead. The Lustful Lord series is off to a great start with this scorching and engaging read!
*ARC provided*
December 31, 2023
Better than expected
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book but it ended up being a delightful read. With the way the book started, I was dubious as to how it was going to go. It does bring into question how men back then felt that wives shouldn't be subjected to BDSM. Women were taught as wives to just lie there. Even though it was obvious who was behind the mishaps, there were still some unexpected surprises. Theo was a strong, independent woman and I really liked her character. There was a lot of chemistry and some steamy scenes. I liked the way the book ended but I wish there had been an epilogue.
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book but it ended up being a delightful read. With the way the book started, I was dubious as to how it was going to go. It does bring into question how men back then felt that wives shouldn't be subjected to BDSM. Women were taught as wives to just lie there. Even though it was obvious who was behind the mishaps, there were still some unexpected surprises. Theo was a strong, independent woman and I really liked her character. There was a lot of chemistry and some steamy scenes. I liked the way the book ended but I wish there had been an epilogue.
October 26, 2021
Podria haber estado mejor. Los personajes y la historia estan bien, un poco kinky, BDSM ligero, pero hubiera agradecido mas trama y menos cama, o bosque o carruaje o ...
December 21, 2022
I think I would have liked the story more had the heroine be a little less foolish and emotional.
December 23, 2024
3.5 - Excellent historical language/terminology.
October 24, 2023
one word: HOT
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