Lizzie and Hawks story was a little slow in places but I loved the book overall. Hawk and Lizzie both have fears to overcome but together they show they make a great team. Ms. Hutton continues to write characters that are charming and you love to read about.

For two years Lady Elizabeth Monroe has successfully embarked on a new life as a governess. Knowing her father was guilty of treason and she could likely end up in Newgate for it as well, her only recourse was to stay hidden.

Lord Hawkins comes to stay with a close friend's family and cannot keep his eyes off their lovely but secretive governess. After getting closer, Hawk discovers who the woman he is falling for really is. After an attempt on her life, Hawk will do whatever is necessary to protect Lizzie but will his protectiveness become too much for the independent Lizzie?

This story was just ok but could have been better with a few loose ends tightened up. Did Hawk remember their dance from years before? Was there more to the backstory of the help provided by Lady Franklin? Also, more time details and reasoning given behind the villains motives seemed in order.

This is another wonderful story from this author that drags you into the pages as you read them, she weaves you in and you find yourself mesmerised by the characters probably as much as the characters do themselves.

I received a copy from Netgalley and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion

Rake Lord Richard Hawkins, "Hawk" is bored with the London season decides to go visit his cousin, the Earl of Wycliff, and his family in the country. The estate has holds fond childhood memories Hawk. Hawk become quite intrigued by Wycliff’s children’s governess Miss Lizzie Moore, she doesn’t seem to be you’re ordinary governess. Lady Elizabeth is hiding in the country as governess, Miss Lizzie Moore. After a family disaster she left London and her life behind to form a new life and identity away from society’s judgmental eyes. Lizzy remembers Hawk all right from her debut into society, but she’s concerned he discover who she really is and she’ll loose her position. As Lizzie and Hawk spend more time together he begins to suspect that she is more than she claims to be. I loved this story with a little mystery, romance and great characters to fall in love with. This my honest opinions is resolved to build a school for ladies in after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.

3.5 stars - I enjoyed the read overall, but the heroine was reckless and I’m so over heroines who do dumb stuff. I hate it when authors write women, regardless of the era, who don’t use their brains. The heroine here is so set on “not being dictated to” that she puts herself directly into harms way, never checking herself even when obvious clues are revealed that things are not as they should be. I refuse to believe that women, even in the 1800s, where too dumb to live.

The read loses an entire star from me, because of the reckless, feather-brained heroine.

I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Publisher's Description:

Lady Elizabeth is hiding in plain sight...and very plain dresses. To escape her traitorous father's reputation, she's left behind the glittering balls of London Society to act as a governess. For the first time in her life, she’s independent and taking care of herself. All is fine...until the irresistible Lord Hawkins arrives at her employer's house.

Lord Hawkins is a rake of the highest order, but something about the beautiful governess working for his cousin makes him want to act like a gentleman. After an attempt on her life, Hawk discovers who Elizabeth really is. Now under orders from the Home Office to bring her in, Hawk vows instead to protect her. Even though he’s not entirely sure she’s innocent, she is his responsibility. If only he could stop wanting her.

Hawk may be handsome and honorable, but no matter how much Lizzie wants to give in to her desires, falling for the tempting man will surely bring heartbreak. Especially when he proposes the only way to keep her safe is to marry her. She doesn't want his name if he’s only doing it out of a sense of duty. But someone in the Home Office wants Lizzie dead and it’s up to Hawk to convince her of the danger when even becoming his countess may not save her life.

My Thoughts:

This book could quickly become one of my favorites by this author and I have read a few. I actually read this book in one sitting and could not put it down.
I loved the characters and recognized the back story from a previous book in this series.
The fact that Lizzie has been in hiding for two years right under the noses of those searching her out is remarkable.
Two years ago she could not convince the Home Office that she knew nothing of her father's treachery. How will she escape punishment for something she had no part in now? Who could possibly want this woman out of the way?
Hawk is a rake and wants no part of marriage or children until he meets Lizzie. Now all he can think of is her in his bed. Unlike his previous paramours it doesn't stop there. He wants her forever even though he senses there is something not quite right with her story. He swiftly finds out who she is but that doesn't curtail his interest in her.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a mild sensual rating of 2.5 of 5.0 flames. There is only one encounter before this couple marries and little to speak of in the way of intimacy in most of this book.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

It is an absolutely amazing historical fiction novel. I loved everything about it, the story, the characters, the starting, and the ending. I think it's perfect in every way.
Lizzie has been hiding since her father disappeared. She fears that the ton would not accept daughter of a traitor and it seemed like the right thing to do. She has found a perfectly acceptable position as a governess and has been living comfortably... until Lord Hawkins arrives at his cousin's estate. She hopes that he doesn't recognize her but more importantly than that it seems that they both have a mutual attraction which cannot be ignored. She is a member of the staff and it is unseemly for Lord Hawkins to pay her so much attention. However, the real trouble starts when he receives a letter from the Home Office and suddenly it appears that Miss Lizzie's life is in grave danger.
Hawk cannot believe that Miss Lizzie is actually Lady Elizabeth, but something about her had intrigued him right from the moment he met her. Now it is up to him to keep her safe and he cannot trust anyone. Because there seems to be another traitor in their midst, one who wants her dead. They both flee and must uncover the truth before something really bad happens.
As the two spend more time together they begin to realize how much they love each other. If this ended well they might find something truly beautiful to cherish for the rest of their lives.
It's a must read a historical romance novel. I loved the story, it's well-written and has some amazing characters. I especially loved Lizzie and Hawk's characters. Their story was definitely worth reading for me.

captivating the earl continues the lords & ladies in love series, with miss lizzie moore who has a secret identity, one she's all too eager to keep from her employer's cousin, lord hawkins. hawk knows he's seen the young governess somewhere, but it's not until a letter from the home office arrives that he realizes she is the daughter of a treasonous lord he'd worked with his friends to capture.

by then, lizzie had captured his attentions, moreso when he witnesses several attempts on her life. his need to protect her becomes all-consuming. more than that he needs to make her his. lizzie isn't sure about hawk's sudden commandeering of her life. on the one hand, she's alone and terrified of being sent to prison because people might think she was colluding with her father, when that is the furthest thing from the truth. on the other hand, she managed to take care of herself for two years after escaping london and assuming her new identity.

but even as she worries hawk is only interested in her due to his sense of honor and duty, every single one of his actions show his intense, irrational love. in the end, they are both perfect for each other, and come through for one another in ways that simply save the day.

**captivating the earl will publish on november 12, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (scandalous) in exchange for my honest review.

Lizzie and Hawk take you away on this adventure back when things could get a bit hairy at times. Poising as something else Lizzie will find this one will also bite back a bit. Hawk also has a bit of a challenge especially when danger comes a knocking. This one will have you transported, transfixed and captivated with all the ins and outs of a dashing romance filled with danger especially when the two characters in question have all the right stuff to keep us on our toes.This one certainly does warm the heart and curl the toes.

Captivating the Earl by Callie Hutton is book 5 in the Lords and Ladies in Love Series. This is the story of Richard, the Earl of Hawkins and Elizabeth aka Lizzie Moore.
Lizzie's father was accused of treason so she escape to the countryside to start a new life as a governess. Which has worked for her for awhile until Hawk comes to visits and he knows there is something going on with her. In addition someone is attempting to kill her. Hawk goes forward to protect her the best way he can.
Enjoyed reading their story...this has been a great series so far.

To say I was captivated by this story puts it lightly!! Hiding away as a governess for two years, Lizzi has felt safe from the authorities looking for her. Unfortunately, Hawk, Lord Hawkins shows up to spend time with his friends, her employers. What now!! An Earl with good looks and roguish ways, is not good for her libido, and keeping up her charade! But what's a girl to do once he gets a missive to bring her in and realizes who she is? Is she a criminal hiding or an innocent lady whose father was a traitor? It seemed love at first sight between the two and Callie Hutton brings these characters alive to the point you can feel their emotions, although keeping you in suspense as to what will happen. Throw in attempts on Lizzie's life and a search for evidence that cannot be found while time is running out. Prepare to be delighted with this fast paced story that will have you sighing at the end. Cannot wait for the next one!!

Hawk and Lizzie meet at Lord Wycliffe’s estate. She is governess to Wycliffe’s children. He is Wycliffe’s cousin. From the moment they met, they are drawn to each other. After several attempts on her life, Lizzie (who Hawk now knows is Lady Elizabeth Munroe, daughter of an infamous traitor) and Hawk set out for London where they hope to discover who wants Lizzie dead and to prove her innocence in her father’s treachery.

Captivating the Earl has action and danger, secrets, and suspense. I like that you can’t guess who the villain is until the story reveals the scoundrel’s identity. This is also a story of romance and passion. Hawk and Lizzie have a wonderful chemistry. They have common interests. I love their sometimes snarky banter, especially when Lizzie bests Hawk. Most of the characters are familiar from the other stories in this series, there to help when needed. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It is a fine addition to the series. I recommend the book and the Lords and Ladies in Love series.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

Captivating the Earl features a woman from society hiding out as a governess — her dad's a traitor and she needed a new start. Complicating her secret identity is the fact that someone wants her dead. Lizzie is really Lady Elizabeth and when the Earl of Hawkins meets her as governess to his cousin's children, he is intrigued. Then he is infuriated as he finds her secret identity; he is charged by the Home Office with bringing her in. But he won't, until he figures out how to keep her safe. He is an absolutely swoon-worth hero, someone who sizes up a situation and does what needs to be done to keep the woman he loves safe. And unlike so many heroes, he doesn't take too long to admit how he feels either, or act cold and aloof to protect his heart. And Lady Elizabeth, also unlike many heroines, is never foolish and meets Hawk as an equal, not a rebellious, silly young woman. This is a well-matched couple, both in intelligence and spirit. And a thrilling spy tale as well. (I received an ARC/via NetGalley. Opinions mine).

I really enjoyed Lizzie and Hawk's story!

Hawk knew that there was much more to Lizzie's story than she let his cousin know and when the truth comes out, he knows he needs to help her. Even though it is again his better judgment, he is falling for the daughter of a traitor. But you can't help who you fall for...

Lizzie has been living as a governess after her father was accused to treason. She is just trying to make a life for herself out of the eyes of the ton. When Hawk arrives to visit his cousin, he starts to dig into her past. When he learns the truth, they also realize that someone is trying to kill her. Can Hawk be able to keep her safe?

I enjoyed watching these two together. Hawk kept trying to learn more and more about Lizzie and she just kept evading his questions. The bantering between the two had me laughing out loud!

This was a great addition to the Lord and Ladies series and I can't wait to see what Hutton has in store for us next!

I really liked the story, the style of writing with good dialog, and how the romance between Hawk and Lizzie developed.
What prevented me from a 5th star was Lizzie (repeatedly) thinking she'd lose her independence and freedom to make her own decisions by marrying. She's a young woman basically hiding from the outside world and working as a governess, although in a very accommodating household. She's in a precarious situation; how she could think she had freedom? The ending and exposure of the culprit was a bit rushed.

You pretty much get exactly what is outlined in this book’s synopsis, my English Regency book loving friends. So if that brief summary and genre itself are your cup of tea, then you’ll likely enjoy this very steamy at times, new release by Callie Hutton.

There is plenty of “my lord”, “my lady”, and other prim and proper English manners as these two longingly but warily start to dance around each other. That is until about the halfway point where it takes a decidedly graphic steamy turn. At least by then, this couple have spent time together and genuinely seem to like and are attracted to each other. A rather unusual turn of events for this rich, former playboy hero, who previously referred to marriage as a marital noose.

The hero, Lord Hawkins, is a wealthy, privileged, recovering from long term overindulging on wine, women, and card playing lord of the manor kind of guy when he first strolls into Lizzie’s life. He’s thinking he has finally seen the error of his ways though and now wants to be a better man.

Though portrayed as a good man who blames himself for not stepping in and stopping a preventable catastrophe from striking down someone who should have been saved, I still had a bone to pick with him. You see, I wasn’t a fan of the frequent references to his recent but now supposedly behind him “bedsport” ways with tons of The Ton’s willing women. Married or not, as long as they were beautiful and willing is all that mattered to him. I’m just not endeared to that type of mentality. I guess you could say my grudge against him resurfaced each and every time that was brought up. Lizzie being worried how she would measure up to the countless beauties he’s bedded was icky, as well. She should have been more worried about what diseases she might catch from him. Alas, she was as innocent as the day is long so that likely didn’t cross her mind.

Lizzie was very much your typical English, damsel in distress beauty but not wanting to be a burden on anyone type heroine. Born and raised a proper lady, she had the demeanor and education fit to be Hawk’s wife, but he had his hands full trying to keep her alive and out of another type of noose.

Having not read book 1, but rated books 2 and 3 four stars, this one fell into more of just an average romantic read for me. Though I loved his gentleness and protective streak towards LIzzie, the overall pace and flow of the storyline lowered my enthusiasm somewhat. I found myself fast forwarding through large sections of it later on. The obvious ending result if a story has not constantly held and completely captivated my full attention. The main reason I would recommend this romantic tale would be the hero being brought to his knees and senses by true love in the form of one Lady Elizabeth.

Book 1 - Seducing the Marquess
Book 2 - Marrying the Wrong Earl
Book 3 - Denying the Duke
Book 4 - Wagering for Miss Blake
Book 5 - Captivating the Earl

Title: Captivating the Earl, Series: Lords and Ladies in Love (Book 5), Author: Callie Hutton, Pages: 285, stand-alone, very steamy about midway through, former womanizing manho, virgin, damsel in distress heroine, no OW/OM drama, no love triangle, no cheating.

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this
review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)

Truly fantastic book had me captivated from the e begining cant wait to read more, the hero and heroine both magnificent and the story truly outstanding abd most definitely you cant tell who the villan is before the book teveals it, truly awesome

Callie Hutton continues to do a wonderful job with this series. Hawk and Lizzie’s story is a continuation of the intrigue that surrounds these four friends and the ladies they inevitably fall in love with. The characters are smart, funny and charming. Lizzie is feisty, which is just one of the many things that make her attractive to Hawk. They fall in love and Hawk finds he will do anything in his power to protect the woman he loves.

Captivating the Earl by Callie Hutton
Secrets, danger, duty, beauty, and love.
Hutton brings an intriguing story of a woman named Lizzie who is working as a governess, secretly on the run after her father is imprisoned for treason. She is captivated by the cousin of her employer who also happens to be one of the men present during her father’s death. An attempt on her life disguised as an “accident” and a letter from the Home Secretary alert Hawke to the fact that the governess is not who she says she is. He has been tasked now with bringing her in for questioning. Lizzie swears she knows nothing and is innocent of any wrong-doing, Hawke is not sure what to believe but knows that he must protect her after further attempts to murder her on their way. He is also unsure what to do with this woman who has captivated him as no other has, how can he let himself love? Lizzie knows she needs his protection and is drawn to him as well. This story is full of intrigue, danger, and love. Well written and able to be read as a standalone in the series. I will definitely be reading the previous installments.

4.5 Stars
Lady Elizabeth Munro is hiding in plain sight...and very plain dresses. To escape her traitorous father's reputation, she's left behind the glittering balls of London Society to act as a governess. Lord Hawkins is a rake of the highest order, but something about the beautiful governess working for his cousin makes him want to act like a gentleman. After an attempt on her life, Hawk discovers who Elizabeth really is. Now under orders from the Home Office to bring her in, Hawk vows instead to protect her. Hawk may be handsome and honourable, but no matter how much Lizzie wants to give in to her desires, falling for the tempting man will surely bring heartbreak. Especially when he proposes the only way to keep her safe is to marry her. She doesn't want his name if he’s only doing it out of a sense of duty. But someone in the Home Office wants Lizzie dead and it’s up to Hawk to convince her of the danger when even becoming his countess may not save her life.
This is the fifth book in the series & whilst it’s easily read as a stand alone book it does feature characters from earlier books. Lizzie is the daughter of the Earl of Loverly & this book finally solves the case of the traitors which began in Denying the Duke. This is another well written page turning read. The characters are well fleshed & I love it when a rake falls in love & Hawk is no exception. Lizzie is a strong character who has survived her father's treasonous acts & managed to forge a life for herself. The pace of the book is very good, it was entertaining, intriguing & the chemistry between Hawk & Lizzie was so apparent from the start. I hope Lord Campbell has his story as there was a definite hint about it at the end.

My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read