I absolutely adored the first book in The Elusive Lords series, Dare to Be a Duchess, so when the opportunity to read To Covet a Countess came along, I jumped at the chance. The book does stand on its own, but it’s definitely enhanced if you’ve read the first book.

I loved Sania, the main character. She’s a feisty, independent woman trying to make her way in a new country and protect her sister. She’s very loyal to her loved ones, even when they don’t feel they deserve that loyalty and love.

On the other hand, Nicholas is your typical “wounded” hero. He has childhood issues that make him believe that he’s not worth being loved. And after meeting Sania, he finds a reason to heal those wounds. Together, there are just so many sparks, and I had to keep turning the pages to see how their happily ever after would be achieved.

I’ve really been enjoying historical romances lately that are slightly out of your norm. In this case, you have an earl of society falling in love with a young lady from India. She’s having to deal with the pressures of being an outsider of society as well as being in a new country. I only wish the author had explored or revealed more about her Indian background, perhaps more than just dressing in a saree at a ball. I felt it would have enhanced the story a bit more.

To Covet a Countess has a solid plot, good character, and romance development and even managed to make me shed a couple of tears. I highly recommend To Covet a Countess to historical romance fans.

This is the second installment of The Elusive Lords series and my first experience reading one of Ms. Bhog's books. Being a Regency lover, I was quick to pick this up and I was not disappointed. I liked the fact that this was more uniquely written in the sense that it includes an Indian heroine, which I can culturally relate to, and made this more fun for me to read. The story pulled me in right from the start and held my interest all the way through. To save their lives, Sania and her sister flee India and escape to England to find safety with her cousin who has newly become a duchess. Through a course of events, they end up in the care of Nicholas, Earl of Hawksley. Nicholas and Sania begin to form a beautiful bond and really start to care for each other. I enjoyed seeing their love story develop. They were such lovely characters and had wonderful chemistry. I think the story was quite enjoyable and flowed nicely. I would love to read more books by this author.

I received a complimentary advanced reader's copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.

I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Sania Aaryan and her sister Isha flee India to find their cousin Lara, the new Duchess of Wolverton, hoping she can help them escape a horrible and vile man. Nicholas Delores, Earl of Hawksley, catches them attempting to break into Wolf and Lara's house to get shelter from a snowstorm. He has to decipher if they are telling the truth or are fortune hunters out to gain money from his friends. What he finds is that he is drawn to Sania, and can't get her out of his mind.

I don't know about this book. I loved the beginning. It had such a strong start, but then it started to go downhill for me. First off, I can tell this writer is a contemporary writer because it sounded more like a contemporary than a historical. There were phrases that I was honestly thinking "how did an editor not catch this?". Plus, when I think of heroines in historical romance they are more demure. They might be strong, but it's calculated instead of more in your face. Sania was in your face. If you like that in a romance heroine, you might love her, but I missed those cheeky underhand comments or even flirting by the heroine that were missed because of her directness. It was off-putting. The hero was kind of a dunderhead at the end too. The whole end of the story was rushed, and was the miscommunication trope. I wish that it had been handled a little differently.

What did I like about this one? The cover is stunning. Nicholas doesn't take the whole book to fall in love, and that was so refreshing. He even says it first. Hallelujah. Secondly, I loved the way the writer intertwined the Indian culture in this story especially wearing sarees to her engagement ball. I thought that was great because it felt like true to who she was. She was proud of her culture, and I appreciated that detail a lot.

2.5 stars rounded up to 3.

Unfortunately fairly predictable. Saw the twist with the cousin coming a mile away. The relationship btn the 2 LIs felt forced and incomplete.

Nicholas Delmore, Earl of Hawksley, wasn't expecting to see someone trying to break into his friend's home or have a knife pulled on him by a beautiful woman. Sania left India with her younger sister to avoid the army officer stalking her and threatening to possess her. The two are drawn to each other from the start, but Nicholas doesn't feel worthy of marriage and Sania won't accept any of the racist nobility as a spouse. When her past arrives in London, will their connection survive?

I don't often see Regency romances featuring people of color, so I immediately wanted to see this. London of the period hadn't been purely white, but the genre focuses on the nobility and doesn't mention how diverse the population actually was at the time. Here, Sania left India hoping to stay with her cousin, a mixed woman that married very well in the first novel of the Elusive Lords series. I didn't read that one, but I loved what I saw of Lara and her husband. They're a great couple together in the background of Nicholas and Sania's romance and are supportive friends for both of them. Sania isn't physically strong, but she has a lot of spirit and strength of character. She'd have to, in order to work and support her sister and uncle in India, then run away looking for her cousin when her situation was too dire there. She isn't willing to settle for scraps of attention, and I love that about her.

Nicholas is an earl sure that he isn't a worthwhile or good person, despite all of the good he does. He's a sensitive man, which is why he came to Sania's and Isha's rescue from the start. It's also why he can admit he's in love, which is usually difficult for romantic heroes, but also why he pushes Sania away at first. Overcoming his own perception of self is a huge hurdle in this romance, and we all know that what we think of ourselves lingers long after we think we've conquered the thoughts. I appreciated that the effort is shown and that both Sania and Nicholas truly care for each other. They get along as friends, are physically attracted, and want the best for themselves and their love. These foundations allow their love to grow over the course of the novel, and I enjoyed reading it.

Sania Aaryan and her sister, flee India to seek the help of their cousin who has recently married a duke. Yet when they arrive to her house in London, they are denied entry as their cousin is out of town. Yet Nicholas Delmore, the Earl of Hawksley, comes to their rescue. When he first meets Sania, she holds a dagger to his throat, and he is instantly captivated by her spirited and forthright nature. Yet Nicholas’ demons threaten to destroy any chance they might have for a lasting relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story which progressed at a steady pace. The theme of racism and prejudice was handled with openness and was honest in the treatment of Sania and her cousin. Hawk is a well-meaning gentleman who is a great match for Sania. However, I did enjoy that she questioned his ability to stand up for her. Her ability to make him question his actions was quite refreshing, showing that she wasn’t subservient. Whilst this book is the second in the series, the integration of characters from the first book, was cleverly done.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

*3.5 stars*
After escaping India and heading for their cousin on the shores of England, Sania and Isha find themselves in the middle of snowstorm with nowhere to go. When Nicholas notices something amiss at his friend's residence on his way home, he stops to investigate. Finding the cause to be a beautiful woman who holds him at the point of a dagger and then promptly faints, he is intrigued enough to bring the lady and her sister to his residence. The story unfolds from there.

Sania is a bold, fiercely protective character with loads of heart and courage. She wants the world for her younger sister and will stop at nothing to get it for her. I absolutely loved Sania's character. I think she was written really well, in ways that made her relatable and kept me invested in her story. I also adored her younger sister, Isha. She was full of spunk and I hope that she is the focus of a future book by Ms. Bhog.

As for Nicholas... he had moments where I really liked him, and others where I really did not. I just found him to be a very weak-willed character. Despite knowing his backstory, and understanding why he feels so judgmental of himself, I found myself getting very irritated with him at times. I think the "woe is me, I'm not good enough" attitude really got to me as we got closer to the end and he was still complaining.

I did like how the author addressed prejudice in this story, I think it was well done. Overall, I like her writing style and though this wasn't one of my favourite books, I would definitely try another by her.

I received a copy of this story from NetGalley and this is my freely given review.

I quite enjoyed this story and it's predecessor, Dare to Be a Duchess. Both heroines are women of colour. Sania, the heroine in this story is an Indian lady who is orphaned, and found herself and her younger sister in a dangerous situation back in India. She and her sister escaped and made their way to England, in the hopes of finding her cousin, Lara, the half-English, half-Indian heroine of the first book. She was hoping that she and Isha, her sister, would be able to find safety with Lara and her new husband.

They made their way to London, and to the Duke of Wolverton's townhouse, hoping to find Lara and her husband at home. Unfortunately, they were not, and the remaining staff would not let the strange women in. It is winter, and both Isha and Sania are freezing and starving, after being on the run from India, for months. Sania decides to try to break into the townhouse that night to at least be able to seek out warmth and shelter for the two sisters.

Nicholas Delmore, the Earl of Hawksley, and a best friend of Wolverton, was on his way home, nearby, when he observed the attempted break in and decided to investigate. He ends up intervening and bringing both Sania and Isha to his home, and looks out for them until Wolf and Lara return to town and take the ladies in hand. He has his own demons in his past that he is fighting, and which make him feel unworthy of being the Earl and being a worthy man for Sania, though they develop a strong connection from the beginning.

Nicholas is struck by Sania's beauty, boldness, and bravery, and eventually comes to realize that he can overcome his past, and reach out for the happiness that he feels he can find with her. When they are on the cusp of building a future together, both his past and her past collide to break them apart. Both Sania and Nicholas have to work anew to rebuild their trust in each other and their relationship, and to overcome the past together to reach their HEA.

I always enjoy reading about mixed race relationships, in the historical context, being a woman of colour myself. Both this story and it's predecessor spoke about the barriers in place in Society against the two heroines because of their Indian heritage, and alluded to some of the racism they faced. Nicholas, as the hero in this story, did not seem to care about how her background would affect his standing, as much as Wolf did in the first novel. One thing that put me off a bit with the first novel, was how much importance Wolf put on his standing and not causing any scandal, and because of that rejected Lara quite badly. But there was some redemption of that, when he turned things around in the end, and one takes into account his own family history and how it contributed to those fears. Nicholas seemed to have more internalized fears, and concerns about his worthiness, rather than concerns about how Society would perceive Sania. Regardless, Society likely would not generally be welcoming of a foreign commoner worming her way into their world, and stealing away a rich, titled, eligible bachelor. Sania is made aware of this, especially considering what Lara had to deal with for years, but is willing to brave this with grace, with a loving Nicholas at her side. Also, there is Isha's future to consider.

In general, I quite enjoyed the story, especially the strengths demonstrated by Sania. I quite liked seeing the carry over of the story and characters from the first book, and the character development too. There was also the addition of a mastiff puppy - needless to say, that won a bit of my heart too. I see some background development of a future story or two as well, and that builds my interest for a future book or two.

But a major detractor for me, for both this book and the preceding novel, is the language. There are more than a few instances where the dialogue and language used was not appropriate for the period, such as Lara's use of a dismissive, "Whatever", and the frequent use of Okay. There are a number of times when the phrasing does not appear in keeping with the time period, and a bit of more judicious editing could have tamed that a bit better. In general, I can ignore it because I enjoyed the overall stories, but the frequency of this occurring did ultimately stick in my mind and took a way from my enjoyment of the books a bit.

But still, a solid 4 out of 5 stars for me.

Excitement right out the gate! Action at almost every turn. This romance will have you captivated while Hawk and Sania come to terms with their love and their challenges. It’s an excellent continuation to the series that can be read as a standalone. Book provided by NetGalley.

📖Summary: The Earl of Hawksley did not trust himself to protect anyone, so he vowed to never fall in love. An honorable man right? He seems to think so, until he meets Sania Aaryan from India. A woman dedicated to keeping her younger sister safe from a colonel with nefarious plans. The two instantly fall into a passionate romance. But what will come of their romance when their past comes knocking at their door?
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✨Rating & Review✨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was never a real fan of regency romance until recently. But a regency romance with a heroine of color? SIGN ME UP! Sania is the heroine we all need, embracing her intellect and her ability to take care of herself AND her sister #TheFutureIsFemale. This book is so amazing and full of women sticking up for themselves during a time where that was frowned upon. And the romance?! Swoon worthy. The love and desire in this book is enough for the women of the ton to clutch their pearls. Even though I haven’t read the first book, you can bet I’m on my way to find it now. Thank you @netgalley and @sapnawrites for giving me this opportunity to read and review this book. It was an absolute joy.

So cute. I really liked it. I loved the diversity. The angst was incredible, and the character are well rounded and developed.

I thought this was a really good book. The story was entertaining and it kept me engaged. I found Sania and Hawk very likable and I thought they made an excellent pairing because their chemistry was so powerful. This romance delivers and abundance of emotions and feels with a healthy side of drama, heart tugging and painful reality.

This was a great read. Sania and Hawk’s story had just the right balance of chemistry and angst that I like in my historical romance reads. I liked how the author explores issues like racism and classism. I will definitely be looking for more from this author.

Overall I enjoyed this book and thought it was well written. It very astutely conveyed how people of different races were treated and the discrimination they faced at the time. Although I do wish the author had placed a time period to the story. Sapna Bhog is a great writer and she gets right to the point of it and adds in the steam! This can be read as a stand-alone even though it is part of a series. I had not ever read anything by this author but was able to pick up on the other characters fine without needing to know their full story.

I didn't particularly care for Nicholas (Hawk), I thought he was too wishy-washy and even though they are both instantly attracted to each other, I didn't feel he was someone Sania would stay with long-term given her thoughts and attitudes towards being so independent. She's a spitfire and he while nice and lusts after her, doesn't really offer much except his title. Her character is well done, but his needed work.

This reads a little like a Cinderella story with a hidden background secret from her. I do recommend it and look forwards to more from this author.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my review

To Covet a Countess by Sapna Bhog
Sania Aaryan flees India with her younger sister to England hoping she will find safety in her cousin Lara, Duchess of Wolverton’s home. However when she arrives there’s a terrible snow storm and no cousin in sight. She’s rescued by her cousin’s neighbor and good friend Hawkesley. They grow close while waiting for the storm to pass but Hawk wouldn’t be a good husband. He’s a rake with a troubled past. But Sania has decided what she wants. Now she must figure out how to get it.

Overall I really liked this. I loved how sweet and endearing Hawks could be. I applauded Sania for not letting others, read MEN, make decisions for her. She stood up for herself and took ownership of her future. I loved that Hawk really loved Sania and was determined to show her he cared and not just give her empty words.

I felt like the 3rd act conflict was actually on point. I can see how Sania would have interpreted Hawk’s actions or lack thereof as betrayal. Yet I understood that Hawks was more stunned and confused that saying “Here, She’s yours I guess.” I will say that the villain could have been a bit more developed but it wasn’t an issue for me personally.

I really just enjoyed being with these characters again and seeing Sania and Hawk not only fall madly in love but Hawk learn to recognize that he deserved love too. I gave this 5 stars!

She's on the run with her sister....

All the way to England. Sania is on the run from a bad man with her sister, Isha. She seeks refuge in England, with her cousin Lara (book one, now a duchess).
Except, she runs into Nicholas "Hawk" and earl. he's on the run from his bad memories and uses the stereotypical British aristocrats diversions, wine, women and gambling to avoid sleeping, since he can't sleep (memories). He is skeptical they are who they say they are but is helping the sisters, incase they are who they say they are.

So, we have two runners.
I liked that Sania is from India and her motivations and experiences are not the typical debuntante's, instead we have a sprinkle of a different culture (just a bit, since it takes place in England).

Nicholas Delmore, the Earl of Hawksley, was not expecting a snowstorm-sieged London evening to end with a dagger held to his throat. Nor did he anticipate his spirited attacker to have glossy black tresses and lush red lips that might invite a lesser gentleman to steal a kiss. Sania Aaryan has no choice but to trust the breathtakingly handsome Earl of Hawksley with both her life and her sister’s. Trusting him with the truth, however, is out of the question. Because fleeing India for the icy shores of England was rash. Impulsive. And it might have saved her life only to land her into the arms of a man who poses an entirely different kind of danger.
Whilst this book is the second in the series it’s easily read on its own. A well written book with well portrayed characters who I liked but didn't love. I preferred Sania to Nicholas, I did love their journey to a HEA. I also loved how the author didn’t over emphasis the prejudices but made her point. I missed not having a date for the story & did spend time trying to work out when it was set. I did enjoy the epilogue but I also love an epilogue. An interesting read which I enjoyed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

I did enjoy this story very much. Sania Aaryan was a brave, resourceful and beautiful woman. Sania is of Indian descent and as such was subjected to prejudice from certain members of society. Nicholas Delmer, Earl of Hawksby, has events in his past that affected the way he thinks of himself. I liked that they both had good friends to help them when needed and in Nicholas’s case, to provide amusing banter. Sania and Nicholas are attracted to each other but Sania is aware that she is a commoner and Nicholas has his self doubts. There are some passionate moments and a villain to deal with. There are a number of interesting secondary characters, hopefully, they get their stories. I found this to be an entertaining read and will look for more by this author. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own,

Dearests, here is a sweet, hopeful and optimistic love story, which I am too much of a cynic to appreciate as I should. 😭😭😭

Official title: To Covet a Countess
My title: The Cynical Reader 🤣
Author: Sapna Bhog
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Fav character: Sania
Readability: Good
Type: Book
4.1/5

Here, all goes brilliantly well until it doesn’t. While you suspect a fallout and may even anticipate it, you still get this feeling - 😬😬😬 - when it happens.

An innocent, who nevertheless knows her mind, takes initiative and is brave, sets out to be seduced by a sexy earl who saves her and her sister; after she tries breaking, entering and stabbing him with a knife of course. Just in England from India, Sania and Nicholas will be irresponsible TOGETHER in a lovingly created and purely optimistic world.

Sania is a young lady who has fled India with her sister for safer shores in England and the arms of her dearest cousin who is sure to protect them. The girls are running from a brute, an officer of the British Army, determined to make Sania is willing sex slave/wife. Unfortunately for him, Sania is not interested, unfortunately for her, she has no one to protect her, and so go they must. On arrival, tired and unpresentable, she is unfit to enter the house of the Duke and Duchess, her cousin.

A determined little spitfire, Sania tries as best she can to protect herself and her sister from the freezing cold and when a curious Earl, friend of the Duke happens around, things will begin to change for the girls. They will be clothed, fed and then delivered to the Duke. Sania will also fall into lust with the ridiculously attractive Hawk, and him with this stunning Indian beauty who has the bravery and kindness of spirit he needed in his life.

The two will fight their passions, the ton and their demons to stay together. When lust brews and overflows and demons decide to surface, will these two be strong enough to fight each other?

🌱Have a read to find out.

Sania and Isha have run away from India to London to escape a terrible man and to find their cousin Lara, now the duchess of Wolverton, in hopes of being given sanctuary till they can get on their feet. However Lara isn't home and when her butler turns them away in a snowstorm Sania decides she's going to try and break into the house to get her sister out of the cold. Hawk is on his way home when he sees someone trying to break into his friend Wolf's home, deciding to put a stop to it, he jumps the fence and grabs the thief only to find it's a petite beautiful woman who after threatening him faints in his arms. He takes the sisters to his home and sends a message to Wolf and Lara.
Hawk has a very traumatic past, routinely beaten and beat down by his father, he feels his cousin is a hero because he always saved him, but he feels he isn't worthy of anything because of these childhood lessons.
I loved Sania she's so incredibly strong and strong minded and she takes no sh*t from anybody. It takes Hawk awhile to realize he has no say in her life unless she allows it, and his learning to love and trust himself curve is steep. The size of his third act betrayal and following grovel session was pretty epic as well and part of his learning curve. Isha is an extremely fun character as well and the dynamic between the sisters felt very real.
While this needs another round of edits because a few mistakes make certain scenes physically impossible, I'm sure those flubs will be caught before publishing.