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The Runaway Countess (Naughty in Nottinghamshire #2)

by Leigh LaValle (Goodreads Author)

3.83 of 5 stars 3.83 · rating details · 224 ratings · 37 reviews

"Her heart longs for justice, but her body clamors for sin. "

Once the darling of high society, Mazie Chetwyn knows firsthand how quickly the rich and powerful turn their backs on the less fortunate. Orphaned, penniless and determined to defy their ruthless whims, she joins forces with a local highwayman who steals from the rich to give to the poor.

Then the pawn broker snit...more

408 pages

Published March 6th 2012 by Samhain

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Mar 14, 2012 Jill rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-european, 2012-debuts

3.5 stars

Mazie Chetwyn known as Miss Mazie to the local villagers, has been caught with stolen goods from the highwayman known as the Midnight Rider. Mazie is in fact Lady Margaret Chetwyn. Alone and impoverished after the deaths of her parents five years earlier, she has survived by working and gaining the respect and admiration of the local villagers. Now under house arrest, locked away in Lord Radford’s attic, she awaits his arrival, to begin questioning her on the role she plays as the accom...more
3.5 stars

Mazie Chetwyn known as Miss Mazie to the local villagers, has been caught with stolen goods from the highwayman known as the Midnight Rider. Mazie is in fact Lady Margaret Chetwyn. Alone and impoverished after the deaths of her parents five years earlier, she has survived by working and gaining the respect and admiration of the local villagers. Now under house arrest, locked away in Lord Radford’s attic, she awaits his arrival, to begin questioning her on the role she plays as the accomplice of the Midnight Rider.

Trent Carthwick, Earl of Radford and Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, has been forced to leave London and his responsibilities in Parliament to hunt down the outlaw. So far the only hope of tracking down the man is the link between him and Mazie. Having spent most of the past eight years in London, Trent’s standing with the locals is tenuous. His own father was reviled, and he is unaware of the abuse of power by the local authorities in his absence. The villagers have no reason to trust him. He has his work cut out for him gaining their confidence and help in bringing down the highwayman.

Mazie strikes a bargain with Trent. She will tell him everything she knows about the Midnight Rider, and help him gain the trust of the villagers, if he no longer locks her in her chamber but allows her freedom to move within his home and grounds. And he will let her go free once the Midnight Rider is caught.

Based obviously on the tale of Robin Hood, with the Midnight Rider as Robin and Lord Radford cast as the Sheriff of Nottingham. But with a twist. Trent, Lord Radford is of course the hero and not an evil tyrant. Trent is controlling and proud, yet dutiful and honorable. The protagonists, Trent and Mazie, are fundamentally different in their morals. Trent with his unswerving devotion to duty, believing justice must be levelled or anarchy will ensue. Mazie who believes that you can bend the rules and the truth as a means to an end.

The characterisations of the hero Trent and the heroine Mazie, are particularly well-done. Written with a deft mixture of romance, mystery and action. The Runaway Countess is a lovely debut, solidly written and well worth reading.

Steam: 3

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Mar 06, 2012 Diana rated it 5 of 5 stars

Recommended to Diana by: Tessa Dare

Shelves: 2012-reads, arc, all-time-faves, angst-it-s-the-angst, awesome-ensemble, awesomely-awesome-reads, banterbanterbanter, betrayal, big-secret, catalyst-for-change, conversations-are-love, cruel-fathers, deception-and-lies, declaration-of-love, driving-force, e-books, falling-in-love, family-is-love, favorite-heroes, favorite-heroines, favorite-couples, favorites, forgiveness, enemies-into-lovers, heartaches-and-heartbreaks, heartwrenching, hero-protective, hero-passionate, hero-responsible-dutybound, hero-sexy-as-hell, hero-straightlaced-stiff-rigid, hero-strong-willed-stubborn, hero-titled-earl, hero-very-smart, heroes-in-pursuit, heroes-that-love-them, heroine-damaged-hurt, heroine-independent, heroine-in-disguise, heroine-misunderstood, heroine-not-ave-damsel-in-distress, heroine-passionate, heroine-strong-willed-stubborn, heroine-stalwart-strong-steadfast, heroine-very-creative, heroine-very-smart, heroines-emotionally-guarded, hidden-depths, how-do-you-not-love-the-hero, how-to-cope, intense, laughed-my-arse-off, killer-lines-and-or-moments, loyalty-and-love, moments-it-s-the-moments, mystery, opposites-attract, overcoming-the-past, palpable-ust, patience-is-a-virtue, questions-about-life, redemption-in-love, real-deal, romance, romances-historical, sacrifice, salvation-and-redemption, second-chances, secret-identities-and-impersonation, shades-of-gray, siblings-are-love, sigh-inducing, so-many-quotable-quotes, so-much-love, steamy-reads, surprise, tears-and-all, tender-moments-that-tug-at-your-hea, the-ties-that-bind, unconventional-heroines, undeniable-attraction

The course of true love never did run smooth. Very true, especially when it is made even more complicated when you find yourself falling in love with The Enemy. 'The Runaway Countess' is a stunning debut novel from Ms LaValle; it is thrilling and fraught with tension and intrigue, it is sensual and seductive, and it is sure to captivate your heart. I know that from the first chapter, I was very impressed with the crisp clarity of writing, of how the lush narrative allowed me to immerse myself in...more The course of true love never did run smooth. Very true, especially when it is made even more complicated when you find yourself falling in love with The Enemy. 'The Runaway Countess' is a stunning debut novel from Ms LaValle; it is thrilling and fraught with tension and intrigue, it is sensual and seductive, and it is sure to captivate your heart. I know that from the first chapter, I was very impressed with the crisp clarity of writing, of how the lush narrative allowed me to immerse myself in Trent and Mazie's world without diffidence.

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Mar 05, 2012 Jess the Romanceaholic rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: requested-review, regency-romance, secret-identity, law-enforcement, historical, 2012-read, enemies-to-lovers, what-a-tangled-web-we-weave, family-issues, prisoner

This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic.

Expected Release Date: March 6, 2012
Publisher: Samhain
Imprint: N/A
Author’s Website: http://www.leighlavalle.com/
My Source for This Book: Gift from the author
Part of a Series: No
Series Best Read In Order: N/A
Steam Level: Steamy

I was very surprised to learn that Ms. LaValle is a debut author — with intense chemistry and beautiful romance, with a dash of action and a pinch of mystery, this book felt as though it had been...more

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Oct 30, 2012 Miranda Davis rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: suspiciously-similar-to-better-book, dnf, fan-fiction, retching-sounds

There are differences between this book and a far superior book written by Joanna Bourne called The Spymaster's Lady, but not enough to make reading this pale imitation worthwhile.

In fact the similarities are glaring from the first chapter, a captive Frenchwoman (here, half-French) with a secret faces off against a British lord intent on knowing her secret. She carries on a lengthy internal monologue before they meet about how to distract him with her mojo, hit him and escape, just like Bourne'...more

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Mar 06, 2012 Carrie Lim rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, historical-romance, hero-alpha, banter, awesome-covers, characters-made-of-win, deserves-all-the-stars-in-the-sky, ebook, epic-first-kiss, families, favorite, favorite-couples, forbidden-love, impossible-made-possible, lines-of-the-best-kind, love-between-the-lines, lust-at-first-sight, melt-worthy-scenes, momentous-moments, morals, mystery, past-that-haunts, quotes-of-the-best-kind, 2012, real-love-is-real, romance, sealed-with-a-deal, so-real-it-hurts, tears-all-over-the-place, thoughts-are-real-thoughts, thriller-suspense, heroine-tormented, unpredictable, unputdownable, witty

Sizzling hot from start to finish!

I can hardly think after all the emotions. The feelings. Oh, how these feelings and thoughts are still resonating within me even after hours I had put my tablet down. And it was a struggle to put it down. I kept going back, wanting to re-read my favorite parts and just soak in these moments LaValle created.

LaValle's voice is very distinct and I'm kind of in love with the way she can string words together and create these profound sentences that unravel in such...more Sizzling hot from start to finish!

I can hardly think after all the emotions. The feelings. Oh, how these feelings and thoughts are still resonating within me even after hours I had put my tablet down. And it was a struggle to put it down. I kept going back, wanting to re-read my favorite parts and just soak in these moments LaValle created.

LaValle's voice is very distinct and I'm kind of in love with the way she can string words together and create these profound sentences that unravel in such a moving way. Her voice. Her characters. Her characters' voices.

Both Lord Radford and Mazie are incredibly well developed. The way they speak, their personalities, so defined and complex. Love how they are so very telling in how they express themselves by their actions and words and words they choose not to say.

The chemistry between Lord Radford and Mazie is undeniable and present and so very real, it hurts in the most delicious way.

One thing that I absolutely loved about Radford and Mazie is that neither lost themselves, they stayed true to their character from start to finish! None of the OOC business to suit the plot. Mazie and Radford were all about learning who they were and learning to trust in that, whatever they were to be and become.

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Have I said too much? Surely, this story deserves more praise! More stars than I could give. After having read Leigh LaValle's thrilling debut novel, I am excited to say I am a fan and will most surely read her future works. I want more!(less)

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Dec 03, 2012 Julie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle

A different story of impoverished Lady Margaret aka Miss Mazie, the orphaned daughter of a lord, who aids a local highwayman in a Robin Hood theme and gets caught. The local magistrate, handsome and austere Lord Radford takes her as his prisoner to find out who the Midnight Rider really is. She will not divulge the truth, despite the mutual attraction that is growing between them. The stakes escalate as does their passion. A good book despite the slow beginning. Once I got into it, the second ha...more

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May 18, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars

THE RUNAWAY COUNTESS by Leigh Lavalle is an exciting debut historical romance set in Nottinghamshire,England in 1821. With a Robin Hood and Lady Marian style writing but with a few twists and turns. It is written with vivid details,and full of danger,angst,passion,action packed,deception, a quest for truth and justice. Trent Carthwick, twelfth Earl of Radford,the Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire,who is not only handsome,sexy,believes in truth,honor,justice,and family will soon have everything...more

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Mar 07, 2012 Lisa Lin rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Runaway Countess is an extremely deep, complex, and well written romance by debut author Leigh LaValle. The prose is intense, passionate, and sensual. With this story, you are immediately drawn in to the game of cat and mouse between Mazie and Trent, Earl of Radford. Mazie has been captured as an accomplice to the Midnight Rider, a masked highway man who breaks the law to help the poor, helpless, and downtrodden. As Lord Lieutenant, it is Trent's job to find the Midnight Rider and bring him to j...more Runaway Countess is an extremely deep, complex, and well written romance by debut author Leigh LaValle. The prose is intense, passionate, and sensual. With this story, you are immediately drawn in to the game of cat and mouse between Mazie and Trent, Earl of Radford. Mazie has been captured as an accomplice to the Midnight Rider, a masked highway man who breaks the law to help the poor, helpless, and downtrodden. As Lord Lieutenant, it is Trent's job to find the Midnight Rider and bring him to justice, however noble the Midnight Rider's motives.

Trent and Mazie are two intense and passionate characters, and the chemistry positively smolders from the beginning. On the surface, these two characters could not be more different-Trent is controlled, and lives and breathes duty and honor. Mazie is no less strong willed, but her moral compass definitely involves more shades of gray He thinks from the head, she thinks from the heart. But when all these differences collide is when the fun starts. A mere look between them is enough to steam the pages and leave you breathless. Watching these two strong characters fight the mounting attraction and lust is a delight.

With this story, Ms. LaValle takes the mythology of Robin Hood and completely turns it on its head. While on its face, it may be simple to sympathize with Mazie and the Midnight Rider's mission, you can't also help but agree with Trent's view that justice can prevail without vigilantism. Law and order must be maintained, and if exceptions were made for every sympathetic case willy nilly, even for a man who robs to help the poor or a widow who steals to feed her children, laws would cease have any structure, integrity, or meaning. By flushing out and having the reader identify with aspects of Mazie and Trent's differing positions,Ms. LaValle does an excellent job of juggling these tough moral, legal, and ethical dilemmas, and shows us that the balance between justice and fairness can be a tricky one indeed, even when we hope they are one and the same. In the end, we see Trent brilliant display the best of both worlds-justice is not always about hard and fast rules, and it's about serving not just the letter, but the spirit of the law, and mercy and compassion do have a role to play. With that approach, Trent is able to render true justice and everyone does indeed get what they deserve.So yes, the widow goes to the goal, but Trent also makes sure she and the family are fed and taken care of. The Midnight Rider is apprehended, but is not put to death. As is often the case, life is in the shades of gray,and in the end, both of them were not completely right, or completely wrong.

Throughout the book, Ms. LaValle cleverly rachets up the tension and ups the stakes between Mazie and Trent. We gradually come to understand why Mazie continues to lie and decieve Trent about her knowledge and involvement, even as she struggles between her growing love and attraction to Trent, and her loyalty to the Midnight Rider, her half brother Roane. She is caught between a rock and a hard place, when all she wants is to end the charade without losing either Trent or Roane. Trent, meanwhile, battles between his duties as Lord Lieutenant, and his growing feelings for Mazie. He instinctively sees beyond the facade Mazie presents, and her inner vulnerability and emotional turmoil triggers his protective instincts, even as she infuriates and frustrates him at every turn. But his responsibilities as Lord Lieutenant put him and Mazie at direct odds. Trent needs to do his job, but what happens when doing so can cost him the woman he loves?

Mazie and Trent's ties to the past also serve as a powerful theme to the story. Having assumed the title, Trent faces the hefty duty of living up to the role and legacy established by his father, and the generations of Lord Radfords before him. It is not a responsibility he takes lightly. But Trent comes to learn that all is not what it seems, and there are some ugly skeletons in his family closet. Eventually, he learns to not be completely beholden to the past, and to be his own man and forge his own path, and that is how he earns the trust and loyalty of the villagers and those under his care and protection. For her part, Mazie was born into a life of privilege, but it was taken away from her when her parents died, and she was abandoned and neglected by her remaining family. That experience leaves her determined to never be vulnerable and leave her fate in the hands of others ever again. Building a hard facade to protect herself, she has to learn to let down her guard and trust Trent in every way possibile in order to have the happy life she craves.

By the end, you are on the edge of your seat, wondering how it will all be made all right, and how Trent and Mazie are going to get their happy ever after. But they do get there, once they learn to trust and believe in each other, heart, mind, and soul.

We also meet Trent's sister Catherine, who is a fascinating character in her own right. I hope we will find out more about her, perhaps in her own book!

I thoroughly enjoyed the story and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next from Ms. LaValle! (less)

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Apr 18, 2012 Stella rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, for-review, historical, romance, favorites

I believe it doesn't come as a revelation when I admit that the reason I was intrigued by The Runaway Countess was due to its Robin Hood storyline, but this novel was so much more than that.

The novel starts with an unexpected beginning: Mazie, our heroine is already imprisoned having been captured as accompilce of the wanted highwayman, the Midnight Rider, and that's from where the story unravels. Trent Carthwick, twelfth Earl of Radford and Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, in charge of inves...more

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Jan 06, 2013 Andrea rated it 4 of 5 stars

The story behind the wonderful book from Leigh LaValle was realistically complex and psychologically alluring. I was moved by the unbreakable loyalty Mazie had for her brother, and her bravery along with her charm were admirable. The stating of the plot, its climax, and its resolution were very well done. I had no problem with the way the whole story was untangling, but I gave the book four stars for its ending.

At the beginning of the story the first thing the reader can notice is the extreme p...more The story behind the wonderful book from Leigh LaValle was realistically complex and psychologically alluring. I was moved by the unbreakable loyalty Mazie had for her brother, and her bravery along with her charm were admirable. The stating of the plot, its climax, and its resolution were very well done. I had no problem with the way the whole story was untangling, but I gave the book four stars for its ending.

At the beginning of the story the first thing the reader can notice is the extreme passion and courage Mazie has. She is a free spirit, always trying to have her way in the world, mostly due to her unfortunate past and circumstances. I have noticed that pattern in many books, and also in real life; people tend to mature and evolve depending on the present circumstances they experience. Some people prefer to give up, but others have the instinctual impulse of overcoming their own obstacles. I could see this behavior represented in this book very clearly.

Trent was the quintessential lord who has to deal with the community's opinion, and the obligations a family name includes. I felt a little bit bad for him, for he had to play the role of the law, and it isn't difficult to reach conclusions which have the ability to please everybody to some degree. His study of Mazie was impressive. It was very evident he implemented much of his efforts on determining the true nature of Mazie, and until the very end of the book, he got to accept her reasons for doing what she did were valid.

During the middle of the book, we get to see many characters of interesting personalities. We have Cat, Trent's sister, who is someone of an honest and comprehending nature; we have Mrs. Pearl, who is someone very dear to Mazie, who is very wise and astute; we have Roane, Mazie's brother, who is also the Midnight Rider and the wanted criminal Trent is trying to capture, to Mazie's torment; and we also have the common corrupt elite, which were part of Trent's father's aristocratic group.

Another important thing to point out regarding the book's writing, is the elegant description and wise use of words by the author. The author found the way to describe common situations or things in an almost poetic manner, and without overdoing it. I loved the music reference in some of the descriptions, and was captured by the subtle way every detail was named in the most delicate manner.

All of the proceedings in the story were exciting, and some of them even instructive in one way or another, not to mention the romantic (HOT) scenes between Mazie and Trent. They were definitely the perfect couple; Mazie with her passionate and rebellious nature, and Trent with his possessive and strong personality. I enjoyed every bit of their fights, loving words, sensual activity, and push-and-pull situations.

The book was almost perfect in many aspects, but the ending was definitely not what I expected, although I have to admit it was not horrid either. I recommend this book as a fine reading, and I expect to read more from Leigh LaValle.
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May 04, 2012 Janusz rated it 3 of 5 stars

A lacklustre debut novel with plot holes aplenty and a shaky control of narrative structure.

Instead of sending a female pickpocket to jail and possibly capital punishment, the Lord Lieutenant of the district decides to place the defiant and articulate prisoner under house arrest in his own stately home. Among several reasons for this odd behaviour is a plan to extract from his prisoner the name of her highwayman accomplice.

The rest of the novel is a drawn-out description of a repetitious push-p...more

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Apr 26, 2012 Marie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-period-romance

Really liked this book, Heroine and all. I think if the author had explained the crimes of the nobleman earlier on in the story it would have made Mazie's actions more clear, understandable and i would not have thought of her as a flighty heroine just looking for justice and a sense of belonging. At first I thought she was just doing what her brother asked of her without really knowing why, but once it was explained at the end i then understood. I really admire her for her strentgh and loyalty t...more

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Mar 19, 2012 Evie rated it 5 of 5 stars

A merry go 'round of the heart that will leave you breathless...

Mazie is a sweet, kindhearted woman who's forced to stand by the ton sidelines. In other words, she's now an outcast of the world she was born into. A secret society within the ton is to blame for her misfortune. She goes from having everything, to having nothing left, but the clothes on her back. She decides to make the best of what little she has left, and joins forces with the only man that gives a hoot about what happens to her....more

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Apr 12, 2012 Andrea rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review

Full review can be seen at Seductive Musings

Mazie and her highwayman accomplice are attempting their own vigilante justice, Robin Hood-style. Trent is responsible for capturing the highwayman stealing from the aristocracy. Mazie’s world is turned upside down when she is captured by Trent. She knows everything about the mysterious highwayman threatening Trent’s domain but she refuses to reveal it no matter what Trent threatens. This leads to many encounters with deception and game play all while...more Full review can be seen at Seductive Musings

Mazie and her highwayman accomplice are attempting their own vigilante justice, Robin Hood-style. Trent is responsible for capturing the highwayman stealing from the aristocracy. Mazie’s world is turned upside down when she is captured by Trent. She knows everything about the mysterious highwayman threatening Trent’s domain but she refuses to reveal it no matter what Trent threatens. This leads to many encounters with deception and game play all while fighting the overwhelming attraction they have for each other.

As the reader I was left in the dark as to Mazie’s secrets and motives as well, that brought on some frustration and confusion at times. The games and deception Mazie orchestrated fell flat for me, they weren’t witty or intriguing. I wish they had been more interesting because that would have added another layer to the beginning of the novel. The games got monotonous at times and I kept thinking that her big secret had better be good or I would be angry about being kept in the dark.

All of the deceptions were accompanied by the developing attraction between Mazie and Trent. I did enjoy that part. The progress of their relationship was a little slow but completely understandable given their circumstances. All of this leads them into a hot, intense and consuming transition from lust to love which felt genuine. When I read a romance I want to feel the emotions of the characters. I felt the pain of betrayal and the joy of acceptance with them. The romance was perfect and a complete success for me.

Other aspects of the story did not work quite so well. I never got to know and love the characters as individuals. Even at the end, I still cannot say that I really know Trent or Mazie. Some of Mazie’s reactions to situations were strange, I can’t imagine a real person reacting the way she did. The final reveal of Mazie’s big secret was enough to satisfy my curiosity but it was a little rushed and I wanted more details.

While there were some problems with the execution of the story, it was still quite good. Not very many authors can write a romance which I feel this emotionally connected to. That alone is enough to impress me and make me come back for more. I guarantee I will read another book by Ms. LaVelle and if it is Roane’s story I will be thrilled. (less)

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Mar 24, 2012 Jessica rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance

The beginning was slow. But it picks up quickly.

Mazie is a lady who, for reasons eventually revealed in the book, has abandoned her title and joined up with a highwayman. She's arrested on charges of theft and the local law, Trent, tries to extract information out of her about her highwayman accomplice. They aren't supposed to like each other. As LaValle reminds us often, they are enemies.

Yet the chemistry is there. The battles they each wage within themselves about the other and about trust fee...more

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Mar 16, 2012 Kat ~ Forever Book Lover ♥ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, from-author

You can see this entire review at Forever Book Lover. You will also find a guest post from Ms. LaValle, as she talks about the Legend of Robin Hood.

I have to confess, I love Robin Hood, so it was no big surprise that this book appealed to me so much. There was so many things I loved about this book, I especially loved that the hero and heroine spend most of the novel together, I didn’t have to go skimming around the book to find out when they would met again. The author kept the focus on these t...more You can see this entire review at Forever Book Lover. You will also find a guest post from Ms. LaValle, as she talks about the Legend of Robin Hood.

I have to confess, I love Robin Hood, so it was no big surprise that this book appealed to me so much. There was so many things I loved about this book, I especially loved that the hero and heroine spend most of the novel together, I didn’t have to go skimming around the book to find out when they would met again. The author kept the focus on these two characters and kept the reader enthralled in their romance.

The hero, Trent was having to deal with secrets, lies and deceit, and this was all within his own family! Nothing was, as it seems, no one was who they professed to be. He was struggling to make the right decision, either forsake his father and family name or stand up for what was the right thing for the villagers, his tenants. He could protect his family’s name and hide the corruption, but that would make him no better than his father. But Trent knew he couldn’t change the past, he could only shape the future.

And, as if that wasn't enough drama, seems our heroine, Mazie finds herself on the wrong end of the law. Thinking that she can give him the information he seeks to find the "Highwayman", Trent takes her into his own custody. The two takes two steps forward, three steps back, a typically cat and mouse game.

Trent and Mazie’s final confrontation was heartbreaking. She pored out her love for him and tried to reason with him that the beauty of the law is in its the spirit of the law not the words themselves.

"I love you, Trent, because your are kind and just. I trust your heart. Not the man you think you need to be, but the man you are."

Trent was a little hard headed and not open to hear her just yet, he needed time. Time to take it all in, time to come head to head with his father’s fallacy, stand up and be the man he knew he could be and not what was “expected of him. He finally realized that his beliefs were from what he wanted to see rather than the truth of what was real.

There's an untold story waiting to be told for Trent's sister, Cat. Ms. LaValle gave us just a glimpse into her life.

Great romance and suspense the entire book. I was totally drawn in from the beginning and couldn't put it down. Ms. LaValle did an excellent job building up the tension between Trent and Mazie and she didn’t let this reader down when they finally acted on their passion, seriously, if you want to read something totally hot and steamy, this is your book.

I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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Apr 16, 2012 Anna rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance

The majority of Mazie's secrets are hidden from the reader as well as from Trent, at least until the opportune moment. Some readers might find this helps to drive the tension, and others will find themselves extremely annoyed at this tactic, especially considering the majority of the story is told from Mazie's perspective. There were a number of times I just couldn't understand her reasoning, even after her secrets were revealed. She tells Trent quite honestly that she has no idea where the Midn...more

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Apr 23, 2012 Barbara rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Miss Mazie is hiding her identity as Lady Margaret Chetwyn and aiding a daring highwayman, the Midnight Rider, when she’s captured and given into the care of Trent Carthwick, twelfth Earl of Radford. As he works to unravel the mystery of why she would aid such a man, and tries to induce her to tell him where the Midnight Rider is, he falls more and more under the spell of this amazing young lady. Mazie tries to resist Trent but the harder she tries, the more she learns to trust him. In a delight...more

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Feb 28, 2012 Royce Hawkins rated it 5 of 5 stars

This story was positively amazing!!! I felt as if I were part of the story, the proverbial fly on the wall. The depth of the characters and the realness of the story left me breathless. I was privelaged to receive a copy before its release of March and I can not say thank you enough to the author. Emotions were pulled from my heart. Mazie is loyal to a fault and Trent tries to do everything to the letter. She awakens in him his true inner self to be the man he was destined to be and not his fath...more

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Feb 24, 2012 Lisa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, leigh-lavelle, arc, ebook

Mazie Chetwyn has gone and gotten herself captured. She is not innocent of the crime of thievery brought against her but as she she has a connection to the mysterious Midnight Rider, she is not sent straight to the gaols. However, she refuses to divulge any clues as the whereabouts of the notorious highwayman as she has a close, personal connection to the man. Mazie also believes that they are just correcting the wrongs inflicted upon the tenants of the Earl of Radford. Unfortunately, the Earl d...more Mazie Chetwyn has gone and gotten herself captured. She is not innocent of the crime of thievery brought against her but as she she has a connection to the mysterious Midnight Rider, she is not sent straight to the gaols. However, she refuses to divulge any clues as the whereabouts of the notorious highwayman as she has a close, personal connection to the man. Mazie also believes that they are just correcting the wrongs inflicted upon the tenants of the Earl of Radford. Unfortunately, the Earl does not quite see it that way.

Trent Chadwick, Earl of Radford and Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamsire, believes in the law and to enforce it as such. There is no grey area, just black and white. He is stunned by Mazie's accusations against his fathers treatments of the tenants but she is able to plant the seed of suspicion just enough that he starts to notice some clues that eventually reveal a painful secret. But when the truth of Mazie's past also comes to light, he is forced to alter his plans. Even as the attraction burns between Trent and Mazie, Mazie can not fully trust Trent with the secret of the Midnight Rider. Will she follow her heart and be able to trust Trent or will her pride cost her a chance at pure happiness finally after years of disappointment?

Another debut and yet another winner in my book! Leigh LaValle has delivered an intriguing twist on the 'Robin Hood' tale with The Runaway Countess. It grabs you from the first page and for the most part, never lets go. It starts out strong but the middle was a bit slow for me--I just wanted Mazie to tell the truth finally or for the Midnight Rider to return...something...but then the action quickly picks back up and I was engrossed with the book until the end. Watching the smoldering attraction between the couple...phew! But underneath the passion you can see the love growing...albeit a bit reluctantly on both sides. I enjoyed watching Trent come to grips with his father's deception as it wars greatly with Trent's sense of justice. I do wish Mazie could have trusted Trent with the truth before she did but I really felt the situation as a whole was resolved very well. The banter and barbs between Mazie and Trent add in just a touch of humor which is always appreciated! The secondary characters add a nice layer without overshadowing the main story (I do hope Trent's sister Cat is going to have a story though!). Overall, a fantastic debut and another author to add to my must-buy list! For an exciting retelling of Robin Hood, mixed with humor and a generous amount of steaminess and action, please grab The Runaway Countess and settle in for a delicious treat! 4 stars

I received a copy of the ebook from the author, thanks!(less)

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Apr 21, 2013 Kati rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads, 2012-reviews, 5-stars, arc, books-with-reviews, historicals, reviewed-by-jamie

**original review by Jamie posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance**

All I have to say about The Runaway Countess is this: READ THIS BOOK! Ok, I will say a bit more but seriously this book cannot be missed. If you are a historical romance fan then you must read this book. Leigh LaValle takes the Robin Hood theme to a whole new level and makes it her own.

Trent Carthwick, Earl of Radford has one mission as Lord Lieutenant and that isto arrest the Midnight Rider. When his deputy captures M...more

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Mar 02, 2012 Danielle rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: review

Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick

When Mazie is captured by the Lord Lieutenant, Trent Carthwick for aiding the local highwayman, she knows that she must try whatever she can to help him stay hidden. If that means attempting to seduce the sexy Trent Carthwick, Earl of Radford she sure will try. She never suspects that when she kisses him in an attempt to escape, that she her body would want more and she finds herself constantly thinking of the kiss.

Trent, still can't believe...more Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick

When Mazie is captured by the Lord Lieutenant, Trent Carthwick for aiding the local highwayman, she knows that she must try whatever she can to help him stay hidden. If that means attempting to seduce the sexy Trent Carthwick, Earl of Radford she sure will try. She never suspects that when she kisses him in an attempt to escape, that she her body would want more and she finds herself constantly thinking of the kiss.

Trent, still can't believe that his prisoner would rather face the gallows than tell him what he wants to know. What's more, he can't believe she kissed him. He too can think of nothing else and when it comes time to send her to the gallows he decides he can't. She would be ruined and the spark of innocence he senses in her will die. When Trent decides to take Mazie on an outing to gather more information from her, he finds out about her hidden past and that she is really Lady Margaret, daughter of a Duke. Mazie quickly goes from being a prisoner locked in the attic to house guest.

I liked the sexual chemistry between the characters but for me that's all there was between them. I never really felt like they loved each other. It just didn't come across that way to me. Don't get me wrong, there were definitely sparks between Trent and Mazie but I never felt like their relationship grew into anything more. I never felt them bond with each other. I thought that the book focused more on everything else, rather than the relationship between them both.

Sometimes I just felt like shaking Mazie. I understand her loyalties to Roane, and I completely understand where she is coming from in regards to him, but I just wanted to yell out at her a few times. It became a little aggravating. I just wanted her to talk to Trent and trust him with the truth. Because of her lack of faith I found myself frustrated quite a few times.

As for Trent, I understand that he just wants to do what is right but I found him a little hypocritical. He is constantly telling Mazie that he has to do what is right by the law, yet he never turned her over because he was attracted to her. How much sense does that make? But besides that, I really liked Trent. I liked getting to know him. He's smart and sexy and he really takes care of Mazie. I also, loved the relationship between him and his sister. They had such a strong bond. Trent really was a good man and I just wished that Mazie would have realized it a lot sooner than she did.

Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed this book. I like the chemistry between Mazie and Trent and I really liked getting to know Trent. I found that he was good and honorable and all he wanted was to make his father proud. He is kind and takes the law very serious. I also enjoyed the relationship Mazie made with Trent's sister. I know that Mazie had the best intention when it came to everything I just wish she had more faith.

I also liked getting to know Trent's sister and I really hope she gets her own book. I found her story very interesting and I would love to learn more about her.

All in all, this was a pretty good read. I definitely want to read more from this author and I hope that she writes stories for some of the characters that we met in this book.

**ARC copy provide by author**(less)

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Apr 09, 2012 Nana rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of ~justice prevail~ themes

Shelves: historical-romance, disguised

Trent wants to catch this ~Robin Hood~ so he has Mazie as his captive who has knowledge about this "Midnight Rider". Along the way he discovers she's in fact a member of the ton. Then of course they end up falling in love with each other.

Despite the number of ~I love yous~ exchanged on the later parts of the book, tbh I hadn't completely bought their romance. I've enjoyed the book overall enough though.

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May 09, 2012 W. added it

Shelves: did-not-finish, historical-romance

Got half way through the book and decided to give sure. Yes, I know this book is about two enemies who turn to lovers, so there was bound to be misunderstandings and other problems. However, it's way to ansty and dramatic for no good reason. There's so mystery with this and that, but I couldn't bring myself to care. Disappointing.

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Jan 05, 2013 Layssa Hart rated it 2 of 5 stars

There were aspects of this story I like, but a lot that left me cold. The pace was also slow, and while the sexual tension between the h and H built nicely, the story lacked something for me because in the end, I wasn't bothered one way or another about how it would end. The story dragged, with some points being so laboured over so often it grew tedious. It got to the stage where I was actually hanging out for Harrington to reappear just so there would be something happening!

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Feb 27, 2012 Beebs rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-challenge-reads, books-i-won, own-print, historical-romance

3.5 stars

I won this eARC here on Goodreads.

I liked the overall story and I like the author's 'voice'. For me, it just felt like Mazie held out too long before trusting Trent. IMHO, this meant the story dragged a bit in the middle but the pace picked up again towards the end. I will be reading more books by this author and I'm hoping that she writes the story of Trent's sister.

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Mar 26, 2012 Barbara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-2012, romance-regency

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Mar 18, 2012 Janga rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is wonderful debut novel that offers a Robin Hood theme, compelling characters, and a story that tackles some tough issues such as divided loyalties and conflicting views of what is right. I'm sure I'm not the only reader who is hoping for Cat's story.

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Feb 13, 2013 Michelle Birge harrington rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: goodreads-first-reads

Love this book! I received this through Goodreads First Reads, but would have picked this up anyway! Sometimes a steamy read is just what the Dr. ordered! Great escape from everyday reality!

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May 09, 2012 Catherine rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction-vixen-reviews, first-reads-arcs-won-a-copy, kindle

*4.5 Stars*

It had a few bumps in the beginning, but I was glued to it by the end. Enemy romances are always iffy for me, but I think the author did a good job of pulling it off. The tension stayed believable and the heroine and hero stayed at odds in a realistic manner, but they never had the type of hate fest toward each other that I find so common (and irritating) in enemy romances. I'm going to have to check out this author's backlist.

*Review posted on Fiction Vixen*

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About Leigh LaValle

Leigh LaValle lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family. When she is not writing, mommying, or reading, she is rarely seen cleaning. More often she is found hiking or, when she is really lucky, in the white powder of the ski slopes. She holds an honors degree in English Literature and is a devoted yoga practitioner and instructor.

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Quotes from The Runaway Countess

“No person can do this or that to keep another from being truly free. We are always free. Even if imprisoned.” — 4 people liked it

“What would you tell her about me?”
He did not just ask that.
“You did not just ask that.” She chuckled.
“I’m serious,” he smiled.
“Very well, if you must know, I would say that you are arrogant and foolish, too handsome for your own good and far too cognizant of your own intellect. Unbending, unsympathetic, dogmatic, pig-headed—”
“Handsome?” he interrupted, unable to keep the smile from his face. “And intelligent?”
“Don’t forget arrogant.” — 4 people liked it

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