Cover Image: How the Earl Entices

How the Earl Entices

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Member Reviews

I really enjoyed this! It had a great blend of intrigue, romance, and adventure. I appreciated the high levels of angst too.

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10 years ago Susan Montague, Viscountess Lockwood died and Grace Alden, mother to Ethan and widow was created from the ashes of her previous live. After the death of her husband, she was threatened by her brother in law, knowing that he would kill her and her unborn child, she fled and has spent years hiding and bearing the scar of his wrath.

Ross Carlisle, the Earl of Spalding is a wanted man, on the run and desperate to clear his name from charges of treason and murder, he jumps ship and washes up in Sea Haven during a violent storm. He forces his way into Grace's cottage and plans to rest and leave as soon as the storm is over. Grace tends his wounds and turns the tables on him when he passes out. He awakes tied to the bed, naked. Grace has found the papers that he carries and demands answers. She knows who he is and is grateful he doesn't remember her. But when she learns some upsetting news about her brother in law, she blackmails Ross into helping her reclaim her son's inheritance - she will help him clear his name, so he can use his influence to help her, but refuses to tell him who she is.

The set out for London and Ross is intrigued by Grace, she is beautiful, smart, resourceful and brave. By the time they reach London, he knows he wants her for always. But first he has to clear his name and find proof to capture the real traitor. Grace insists on helping and his brother Christoper agrees. Grace is falling for Ross, but is sure he will refuse to help her if he learns who she is and what she has done. She tries to guard her heart, but knows that it is too late.


When their plan to get the evidence is unsuccessful and they are separated, Grace is beside herself with worry for his wellbeing and when he returns, she gives into the fire that burns between them. Afterwards, she finally tells him who she is and what she did. He is shocked and if he is honest, a little impressed - but helping her may cost him his dreams. Before he can decide how to deal with this news, he is captured and arrested for treason, along with Grace.

Grace refuses to give up, even after Ross tells her there is no hope and demands that she return to Ethan and forget about him. Grace manages to do what even Ross wasn't able to do and risks exposing herself to save him - but the cost may well be her life.

I thought this was a very good story, it was well written, has lots of action, secrets, intrigue, deception, really steamy love scenes, true love, great secondary characters and a lovely ending complete with an epilogue. It is part of a series, but it can definitely be read as a stand alone title.

*I am volunarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*

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Not my favorite historical romance. Honorable spy is on the run and a brave woman saves him so of course, he falls in love with her. Ross is an earl who is accused of treason, and Grace is raising her young son and her dead husband's brother has stolen is inheritance and estate. It was very intriguing and the romance was there but I felt no spark.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.

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Well I love the Carlisle’s so I was excited to get a glimpse of this family again. Ross was one tough guy that no one should dream of crossing. The only one capable of giving him a set down was a a woman he came across when running from the law. Grace was a strong and determined woman who knew her heart well enough to know Ross had the ability to break it. I’m so glad she took part in both her redemption and that of Ross.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book the last series was still my favorite. That beings said I can’t wait for the next book!. Anna Harrington is a new favorite of mine!

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Another good read in Harrington’s Capturing the Carlisles series. There is plenty of action and an abundance of secrets on the part of Grace. Well, Ross had his share of secrets to start with but he came clean sooner than Grace. That was a difficult part to understand, why Grace felt it necessary to keep her secrets for so long. She often voiced her reasons but they just didn’t make sense if she wanted Ross' help. Another thing that annoyed me was how Grace’s seriously stupid action almost cost her serious consequences at one point and then her “bravery" worked out a second time. This is not an empowered woman, only a lucky one.

In spite of my issues with this book I enjoyed reading this original story.

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Grace is my kind of heroine!! She's fierce! I loved the danger and adventure! Ross was so much fun!! I really need Christopher's story now!!

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5 of 5 stars

I absolutely adored this book. It's a fast-paced, heart pounding thriller with a romance that sizzles along the way. Grace Alden and Ross Carlisle, Earl of Spalding, meet under the worst of circumstances, but they both need something from each other and agree to travel to London together. Ross needs to clear his name of treason and Grace needs to win back her son's inheritance.

Ms. Harrington has a flair for writing complicated characters who are so appealing that you can't help but fall in love with them. Ross is a loyal British citizen and he'll do everything he can to prove it. Grace is no wimpy heroine. She has a backbone of strength and has shown remarkable resilience during the last 10 years protecting her son. I loved the slow build up of their attraction as they learn more about each other. I could hardly turn the pages fast enough to see what happens. Definitely recommend this book!

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Grace Alden is hiding. Ten years ago, she fled the danger to herself and her unborn child, and since then she’s remained sequestered in a tiny fishing village, praying her enemy won’t find her. Instead, it’s someone else from her past who stumbles into her cottage in the middle of a storm; Ross Carlisle, the Earl of Spalding. He doesn’t recognise her, but he does need her help to unmask a traitor.

Although they get off to a terrible start, Grace agrees to help Ross in exchange for his efforts to restore her son’s inheritance, and they set off for London together. And to my absolute joy, the author included one of my favourite tropes in all of fiction; a There Was Only One Bed scene! It didn’t turn out quite the way I expected, but was still marvellously fun.

Ross was a bit high-handed at first, but the nature of his mission was enough to make anyone paranoid. Grace was the real star, and I absolutely loved her spark and fire, her passionate determination to defend her son by any means necessary, and her resourcefulness. Her realisation that she was no longer the frightened girl who’d fled her oppressor, but a woman who’d survived alone with a child for ten years and wasn’t about to give in to anyone, was wonderful to read. Ross falling in love with her was inevitable, since i the reader already had.

I haven’t read anything by Anna Harrington before but I will definitely be looking out for more of her work in the future. This was a fantastic read and I’m giving it a solid five stars!

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~Reviewed by Shell~~

This is book 4 in the Capturing the Carlisle series and this time we are meeting Ross Carlisle, Earl of Spalding who is the cousin of Sebastian, Quinton and Robert. So if you have read the previous books you know who these are.

Just when you thought Ms Harrington’s books couldn’t get any better, she goes and writes this fantastic book. This book had it all, drama, intrigue, sacrifice and above all romance. From the first to the last page, I was drawn into the book, and I had a couple of late nights because I just couldn’t put it down.

Normally I would mention some detail about the book…but this time I can only give a little snippet. So I will start with Grace Alden, oh my word she is such a strong lady, she is a widow with a nine-year-old son called Ethan…but she also has a secret, and it’s not until Ross turns up at her cottage that she finds the past is very quickly catching up.

Ross has spent all of his adult life in the army, doing his duty for the king, and again like Grace, Ross also has a secret and he needs the help of Grace to go to London…but things don’t go to plan. I found Ross to be caring and warm, but when provoked he can defend himself.

Overall this was a fantastic book and one that I can highly recommend.

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Rating 5/5

I could not put this book down! I have always loved HR tales and this one did not disappoint - my goodness that opening scene had me hooked deep and I loved every second of their witty, humorous banter that had me cracking up in the middle of the night!

I absolutely adored Grace and her strength! At only 18, she fled her home to save her unborn child and made a life for herself and her son and if that doesn't show strength and perseverance than I don't know what does. Bring in Ross to her doorstep and she no longer finds her life quiet and humble. Both have secrets they must keep while fighting an intense attraction - one while Ross is all for but Grace stubbornly denies. But these secrets have the potential to tear them apart and destroy each other. The tension and intrigue had my heart pounding and I just needed to keep turning the page to see what would happen next.

I highly recommend this read! It's part of a series but can be read as a stand alone novel.

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Ohhh, I loved this book! Grace with all her fire and her stubbornness, her loyalty and her courage was a wonderful heroine and Ross, well, he is simply amazing. The well-written story was fast-paced and kept me on my toes, I was swooning and grinning goofily and the next moment I was sitting straight, turning the pages faster and faster and fearing the worst ... Captivating and thrilling with the right dose of romance and humor in between, I didn't put this book down. And when I browsed through it to write this review, I got lost in the story again.

I loved Grace and the way she stood up for her son's rights using every means available to get Ross to help her. And when everything fails and things are rough, she is there, ready to defend the man she loves. Ross' dedication to his country and to those he loves will make you fall for him. He is strong and tender, stubborn and courageous.

Another amazing book in a great series, I can't wait for the next book to come out. The next book "What A Lord Wants" will be out in early 2019 and those of you who have already met Evelyn Winslow will be, like me, looking forward to seeing her find her match!

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If you’ve read any of the books in the Capturing the Carlisles series then you’re sure to love How the Earl Entices. If not, then this one “could” be read as a stand-alone novel for Ross is a cousin to the brothers – yet, this entire series is excellently written with compelling plots and believable, likable heroes and heroines that I believe you’ll be hooked and want to go back to the beginning. Having said that, I don’t feel I can say much more about this particular story plot-wise for that would give away far too many spoilers, so you’ll have to make your decision based on the cover description blurb, at least from this reader.

What I can say is that Ross is such an honorable, dedicated to his country, and extremely stubborn man that he is pretty much the ideal hero for a Regency Romance. Combine that with a handsome face, a bit of humor, and swoon-worthy steamy encounters and you’ll fall a bit in love with this man. Grace is… strong is the best word, she’s intelligent, dedicated, not above a touch of blackmail for the benefit of her son… but she is so strong to have faced what has happened and come out the other side without losing her sense of humor, her ability to love and a fierce protectiveness. Grace is a woman you’d want for a friend, on your side in any fight and someone easily admired for herself. Together they simply worked, each countering the other’s weakness and strengths as well as an intense, sensuous feel to them as a couple. I liked them both, and I believe you will as well.

You’ll find danger, treason, a bit of a mystery to solve and a story that will capture your attention from opening page through to the very satisfying ending. I loved every moment spent in this world once again and would not hesitate to recommend How the Earl Entices to any Historical or Regency Romance reader.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

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****My thoughts****

How the Earl Entices by Anna Harrington is a delightful way to start your day or end your night. Book 4 of “Capturing the Carlisles”, but it can be read as a stand alone. Journey with Ross Carlisle, Earl of Spalding and Grace Alden, both fled England for different reasons. One for his country the other yo save her son. Mow they make work together yo return safety back to England. Can Ross keep Grace’s son safe? Will secrets tear the newly blossoming second chance destroy their love and their lives? Not only their lives in jeopardy but their country Is as well.

Filled with a bit everything, treason, yearning, deception, romance, a bit of mystery, suspense with lots of sparks flying off the pages, spies, a traitor, and intrigue, readers will be transported back to another time and place.

Well written and brilliantly executed. The cast of characters are simply amazing, easy to fall in love with, flawed with an adorable nine year old, Ethan. The storyline flowed seamlessly and effortlessly. I enjoyed the connection between Grace, Ross and Ethan. Ross’s mission to save England, his good name, kept himself from being branded a traitor, and his desire to keep Grace and Ethan protected is legendary and leaves a warm and tingling feeling in readers. A few surprises adds to this mesmerizing tale of love and finding a HEA. Brilliant! An absolute delight to read, and a definite page turner. Well done, Ms. Harrington!!

“I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review.”



Rating: 5

Heat rating: Mild

Reviewer: AprilR

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I loved Ross and Grace's story!!

Grace has lived the last 10 yrs in hiding. Fearing for her life as well as that of her son, she has lived the quiet life of a widow. That all changes the night that Ross barges into her home. Having jumped off a ship to save his life, Ross needs some place to hide so that the men chasing him, don't get ahold of the documents he has stolen.

Ross needs help getting to London, so Grace strikes a deal with him. She will help him and in exchange, Ross will help her to get her son's inheritance. Neither of them counted on the attraction that would bloom between them. Acting on it would complicate things, but can they resist? As danger starts to surround them, their feelings grow to be so much more than just attraction. Can this partnership that should end when both parties get what they needed, turn into a lifetime commitment?

I am so glad that Harrington continued with this series!! It has been one of my favorites and I was sad to think it had ended. This was a great addition to the series! It also appears that we have several more H/H which we were introduced to in this and earlier books that we will hopefully get stories for! My fingers are crossed!!

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I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. How The Earl Entices is the fourth book in Anna Harrington’s exciting Capturing The Carlisles series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I do recommend reading the entire series as they are very enjoyable to read. When Ross Carlisle, Earl of Spaulding breaks into Grace Alden’s simple fisherman’s cottage he was merely looking for shelter from the storm and an escape from those who are searching for him, he finds a whole lot more than that. Ten years ago Grace fled London in fear for her life and that of her unborn son. With Ross’s arrival she realizes that it’s time to take back what was hers and to claim her sons inheritance. Together they embark on a treacherous journey to London and the King’s court in order to prove Ross innocent of treason and claim the title belonging to Grace’s son. Nasty Villains, Treason, Murder, Blackmail, Loyalty, Love and sparkling dialogue will keep you reading way past your bedtime. Quite Steamy. Publishing Date September 11, 2018 #NetGalley #HowTheEarlEntices

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This was a very fun book, with two strong, and entertaining main characters, and a host of other Carlisle men in the backdrop. “Grace" and “Christopher” both have secrets, including their true identities. They both need each other to reach London and reclaim their birthrights. On the way, the romance is hot and the action is fast-paced. I can’t wait to catch up with my Anna Harrington backlist, and for the next in the series next year.

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❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
This book is Awesome , it’s as simple as that .
I’ve read Anna’s books before but not The Carlisle series, that will be remedied immediately ,
The passion and adventure in this story is so thrilling your on the edge of you chair , wishing you could read quicker to find out more .
A whole host of addictive characters ,some who are desperate for their own HEA’s, and a setting and storyline that has you begging for more at the end .
At definite winner in my book .
Recommended !
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review

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How the Earl Entices by Anna Harrington is book Four in Capturing the Carlisles series. This is the story of Grace Alden and Ross Carlisle, Earl of Spalding. I have read the previous books (and Loved them!) but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so....but they were so great you might not want to miss them.
This was such a page turner right from the start along with some funny scene too. Ross has been taken and is being beaten and cut to attempt to get him to talk and give up secret government information but he jumps into the water to escape which leads him to Grace's door. Grace has her own secrets that she is keeping but has no choice when Ross comes to her home but to take him in. Ross needs to return to England to clear his name and inform his superiors of the information he took. Grace agrees to help him but he in turn must help her with a past issue that is quickly catching up to her and her son Ethan.
Grace was a nice change to some of the heroines I had read before...so she was a joy to read along with Ross.

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Let's cut to the chase. This book was AWESOME. Yes, all-in-caps AWESOME! Anna Harrington is most definitely on my auto-buy list. The story started with thrills and secrets, which lasted throughout the entire book. It was the exciting romance, though, that kept me enthralled.

I absolutely loved the chemistry between Ross and Grace. Grace has been added to my list of favorite heroines. She was such a strong woman, brave even when she was fearful. I loved her smartassedness and snarky humor. She would risk all for her child. Ross, too, was amazing. He put his life in jeopardy for what he believed was right, even though it could see him hanged. He was affectionate, strong, very protective and laughed easily. You could feel the attraction between the two from the start. When they finally come together, you could feel the steam come off the page. ~Sigh~

This was not the first book in the Capturing the Carlisles series, but totally stood alone. So if you haven't read the first three, don't fret. Like me, you WILL want to read the others. I won't miss another book by Ms. Harrington again.

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

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How the Earl Entices is the first I have read in this series and I love it! Grace is determined to protect her son Ethan at all costs from his uncle. She even does do at the cost of possibly losing Ross Carlisle, Earl is Spaulding. He is on the run from those accusing him of treason. In his effort to gather the truth of his innocence while proving the guilt of the ambassador who murdered his mentor and is the one committing treason, Ross turns up injured on Grace’s doorstep. Her son was staying in town with a friend that evening giving Ross and Grace the opportunity to warily sidestep each other.

Although Grace is not quite sure she should trust Ross, her heart says otherwise. Off to London they go to secure Ethan’s future and continue in Ross’s quest. As they spend time together on the road, they become quite close. Each day, they fall a bit more in love. Their HEA is not easy to come by as they are both arrested once in London. And, Grace’s brother-in-law locates her.

They secondary characters in the form of Kit and Ms. Winslow are both charming, witty and very strong characters. They add to the depth and intrigue of this romantic tale. Hope to see them again!

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