How to Capture a Countess (The Duchess Diaries, #1) by Karen Hawkins

Oct 12, 2012 Quinky rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, regency-romance

This is a very pleasant light read. I enjoyed it till the very end. There’s always something about two people who pretended that they hated each other while in a matter of fact it’s obviously the opposite. Well in this case it’s actually Lord Sinclair who wanted to mete out revenge on Rose for humiliating him six years ago. You clearly see that they are attracted to each other but won’t be honest about it. It’s like watching a boy bullying the person he likes. I find that it’s very cute.

This boo...more

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Oct 08, 2012 Susan rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-books-read, historical-fiction-romance, romance

Loved it! After their first meeting ended up with Lord Sinclair being an object of ridicule, he wanted nothing more than to get revenge. Six years later he got his chance when Rose was at a house party given by her godmother who is also his great aunt. He corners her and states his intent to seduce her because of what she had done. She apologizes because she had no idea of the results of that evening, but he doesn't care. She tells him that he is welcome to try but she is no longer a young girl...more Loved it! After their first meeting ended up with Lord Sinclair being an object of ridicule, he wanted nothing more than to get revenge. Six years later he got his chance when Rose was at a house party given by her godmother who is also his great aunt. He corners her and states his intent to seduce her because of what she had done. She apologizes because she had no idea of the results of that evening, but he doesn't care. She tells him that he is welcome to try but she is no longer a young girl and has the experience to resist. Her definition of experience and his are vastly different. I really liked both Sin and Rose. Rose has been stuck in the wilds of Scotland for six years and looks forward to this party as a change and also a chance to make things better for her two younger sisters. She finds that she is just as attracted to Sin now as she was all those years ago, but doesn't intend to give in to him. She is intelligent, strong willed and very competitive. I loved the way that she constantly managed to outwit Sin's attempts. Their horse race was fantastic and I loved the way that she outwitted him there. She did find that the more time they spent together the more they had in common. She also enjoyed their kisses even though the intensity scared her at times. I really liked the way she refused his proposal because she wasn't going to marry without love. Sin was an interesting guy. I loved the way he had been so obsessed with Rose over the six years. He was determined to get even with her and thought it would be easy to do. He was surprised when he saw Rose again, especially at the attraction he still felt for her. He considered Rose's resistance to be a challenge that he had no intention of losing. He was frequently frustrated by Rose's ability to circumvent his attempts. I liked the way that things started to change for him, even though he refused to admit it. I loved the ending when he finally admitted his love. I really liked the Duchess and her friend and the way they helped Rose and Sin from behind the scenes. Her scene with Sin when he came to her at the end was fantastic. One of my favorite things about Karen Hawkins' books is the wonderful dialog between the hero and heroine. I am definitely looking forward to the rest of the series. (less)

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Sep 27, 2012 Christine Morehouse rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

REVIEW: Whenever I read a book by New York Times and USA Today’s bestselling author Karen Hawkins I always find myself in a slight dilemma. I know you are dying to know, so I will share. I have the most difficult time of letting Ms. Hawkins's characters go. The same thing happened when I picked up her latest HOW TO CAPTURE A COUNTESS. This intoxicating and thrilling first installment in Hawkins’s new Duchess Diaries series delivers everything a romance reader demands: engaging characters, witty...more

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Sep 21, 2012 Belinda rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This was the most funny, witty and entertaining book written by Karen Hawkins. She has done an excellent job of giving readers another suburb historical romance. How to Capture a Countess is the first book in The Duchess Diaries. The premise of a fairy god-mother who is a sneaky busy body and wants her nephew Sinclair to mend his ways and marry. The Duchess of Roxburghe has just the plan and will do everything she can to make it happen. Six years earlier a young lady named Rose Balfour shoved Lo...more

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Jan 17, 2013 Jessica rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance

This was yet another delightful book from Karen Hawkins.

I had forgotten how much I adore historical romance novels since the past few months have been spent burying my head in other genres so when I picked up this gem, it was like walking into my childhood home. Everything felt right.

Rose Balfour is a dreamer. It's the only explanation for her attraction to "Lord Sin", the dreadfully apathetic Earl. So when Rose bumps into him her first season at a ball, she blossoms like a flower into the sun w...more

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Nov 07, 2012 Julie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Historical Romance Lovers! And Fans of Romantic Comedy!

Shelves: historical-romance, regency-romance, favorites

Lord Alton Sinclair, Earl of Sinclair, aka "Lord Sin," has escaped the machinations of all the matchmaking mamas and, even, the attempts of his own grandmother and great aunt, the Duchess of
Roxburghe. He's done this mainly by making himself scarce within the society "doings" of the ton. That, and when attendance is absolutely necessary, holding an inscrutable air of superiority and boredom and barely controlled irritation. All this, just to ensure that he could drive off the most avaricious ma...more Lord Alton Sinclair, Earl of Sinclair, aka "Lord Sin," has escaped the machinations of all the matchmaking mamas and, even, the attempts of his own grandmother and great aunt, the Duchess of
Roxburghe. He's done this mainly by making himself scarce within the society "doings" of the ton. That, and when attendance is absolutely necessary, holding an inscrutable air of superiority and boredom and barely controlled irritation. All this, just to ensure that he could drive off the most avaricious marriage "vulture." It usually worked, too. So well, in fact, that although he remained a man of mystery, an enigma; he was, also, now a man to avoid and despise for his superior airs and iciness. He, at least, held the respect of those around him, until the night of Lady MacAllister's ball, anyway. Then, his whole life was turned on its end by a slip of a girl who made him the laughing stock of the high and mighty ton he so despised and avoided at all costs. Miss Rose Balfour had been adoring Lord Sinclair from a distance for some time. Always sure to attend any of the rare events that he might deign to attend, Rose always found a way to put herself in his path for a short, chance meeting. Lady MacAllister's ball was no different. She had been watching him all night, and when she noted that he was about to make a quick departure, she knew she had to make her move. She vowed to be more bold, to make him finally really see her. Her plans, however, successful as they were, did not end with exactly the effect she expected to have. While she shared more words and minutes within Lord Sin's company than during any other night of brief encounters, her bold and unpredictable nature made a mess of things as usual. It did ensure that she would not be forgotten by Lord Sin. In fact, she became his own private obsession from that night forward. An obsession to achieve revenge. And for herself? Well, her efforts also ensured her exile from the polished and refined company of the elite of society and any chances of a marital future of bliss and happiness. Destiny and fate and Lord Sinclair had quite other plans for her future, however.
Karen Hawkins does it again! A wonderfully written romantic adventure full of wit and comic tragedy. Hawkins has become the "queen" of comic tragedy, and her stories are always some of the most entertaining to read. Her hero is the deserving fool who can still accomplish capturing the pity of the reader. Her heroine is the strong, smart, but still innocent lady who seems to never have to try too hard to upstage her devilishly handsome opponent. She is always the sweetly endearing underdog in each match who never finds herself at the bottom of the dog pile. Although I am never without stacks of reading choices, I can never pass up a new Karen Hawkins work. After finishing each of her adventures, I am always reminded of why! :-)(less)

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Nov 03, 2012 Melody May rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, romance

Also on http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

First off I love Twitter contest. Here's why: You never know what can happen. This precious jewel of a read was from a twitter contest. I'm grateful that I got a chance to read it. I know I haven't written any reviews about Karen Hawkins' books, but I actually love reading them. Anyways, let me share as I called a "jewel of a read" and what I thought of How to Capture a Countess.

Its always exciting to have your first season; so many unexpected things to ha...more Also on http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

First off I love Twitter contest. Here's why: You never know what can happen. This precious jewel of a read was from a twitter contest. I'm grateful that I got a chance to read it. I know I haven't written any reviews about Karen Hawkins' books, but I actually love reading them. Anyways, let me share as I called a "jewel of a read" and what I thought of How to Capture a Countess.

Its always exciting to have your first season; so many unexpected things to happen. Especially, when you encounter the seasons most eligible bachelor. Rose Balfour made a point to stumble upon Lord Sinclair and make her presence know.

Sin usually avoids balls where there a roomful of doe-eyed innocents looking for a title and money. When Rose bumps into Sin, there's something different about the girl. He felt this instant attraction and had to get to know the girl. Well, it's all downhill from here and the real story begins.

LOVED this book! I mean it had me cracking up from the first moment Sin finds out that Rose Balfour is his Aunt Margret's God-Daughter. What luck? You start to see the wheels turning in his head on how he can extract his revenge on the girl. However, there is one problem: he still feels the spark that fuel the disaster six years prior.

Then you have his aunt who is willing to help only so far, before she gets a little concern about the situation. At the same time, we have Rose and Sin who are so stubborn and competitive as ever. Both are trying to best each other with their wits to come out on top, by the way makes a hilarious read. And to top it all off, you have the sexual tension between the two of them, which makes even better.

Love this book with every page I turn. I enjoyed at the beginning of each chapter you have the Duchess' entry to her diary and what she sees what happening. I really think the Duchess would give Machiavelli a run for his money with all her plotting and scheming. So, if you are looking for a light and diverting read look no further with How to Capture a Countess, it definitely left me laughing and smiling.

So, I leave you today and I hope you are enjoying what you are reading.

Copy provide by Pocket Books
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Oct 02, 2012 Lelyana rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sungguh buku yang sangat membosankan....

Tertarik sama cover nya yang cantik (tapi salah..karena Sin mestinya blonde bukan brown hair) serta sinopsis yg menarik dan menjajikan, aku baca deh....

Sayang cerita nya tak sesuai harapan ku, untung gak punya buku nya juga....hmpfft

Sinclair dan Rose bertemu di epsta 6 tahun yang lalu, berciuman di fountain, dan Rose mendorong Sin , sampe Sin di permalukan seluruh London...
6 tahun kemudian,menjreka bertemu lagi atas undangan Lady Margaret,Duchess, AuntGr...more

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Apr 21, 2013 Fira Rosli rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I can't help it. This book was such a disappointment and Karen Hawkins is one of my go-to-authors. Admittedly, it was well-written and the storyline was all right. But it just didn't "click" with me.

Reading this book reminds me of her another book called 'The Laird Who Loved Me' from her Maclean Curse series. This book somehow has a similar storyline which includes both the hero and heroines having at odds with each other, challenging and wagering against one another on who will finally win. An...more I can't help it. This book was such a disappointment and Karen Hawkins is one of my go-to-authors. Admittedly, it was well-written and the storyline was all right. But it just didn't "click" with me.

Reading this book reminds me of her another book called 'The Laird Who Loved Me' from her Maclean Curse series. This book somehow has a similar storyline which includes both the hero and heroines having at odds with each other, challenging and wagering against one another on who will finally win. And through all of that, in the end they could not help but succumb to their attraction for one another. The major differences between both book is that I loved 'The Laird Who Loved Me' but not this one.

The characters are somewhat also kind of similar. Really. I don't know, Karen but you really disappoint me in this one. And how you make it seem that the heroine, Rose, is so much more superior then Sin, the hero. Yes, I LOVE strong and independent heroine and that they do not succumb to the hero easily but there's limit to that. Seriously. I find myself being on Sin side most of the time and besides, I really don't find him THAT arrogant, maybe prideful but not so much arrogance that Karen kept describing inside the book.

I do like Rose but sometimes she irritates me to no bloody end. At one time she's quite meek and innocent and then suddenly BOOM! she became a seductress and winning their challenges that doesn't really show Sin's manliness at all. I'm a big fan of heroines who knows what she is and is able to stand on her ground but Rose is just equally messed up as Sin is. Karen's character isn't quite developed in here.

And I'm the type of reader who doesn't really like people to meddle into the hero's and heroine's relationship. I know their helping but I couldn't help but feel as if they're just in the way, like what Sin told his meddlesome great-aunt, Aunt Margaret, "stop meddling and interfering into my affairs." I absolutely agree with this. But apparently, in this series, she's going to be there for the whole series.

I'm quite reluctant to read your next book, Karen, but hey, I won't stop reading them because I do like your books. I hope it'll be way, way, way better than this. Good day. (less)

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Jan 21, 2013 Aly (Mircea) Basarab rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, 2013-group-challenge, 2013-reading-challenge-tbr-pile, 2013-romance-reading-challenge

Main characters:
Rose Balfour
Lord Alton "Sin" Sinclair

What I Liked: Rose and Sin's interactions were hilarious, they just couldn't stop challenging each other. They had an archery challenge, a riding one... I think they could have challenged each other to whom eats more teacakes if they could get away with it! It was a great book and I laughed like crazy while reading it.

What I didn't like: I didn't like Rose at the start, she was too... naive and impulsive. I know she was very young but that go...more

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Sep 18, 2012 Jean rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: england, romance, historical-romance

This was the first novel I read by Karen Hawkins and was thoroughly entertained. It did have certain elements that usually puts me off like the revenge plot over a stupid social slight. Anyway, Hawkins smooths it over with a lot better than her other novels (I have since read her other novels before writing this review). Rose is not the usual heroine. While she has a strong character, she doesn't go overboard in her stubbornness as many heroines do. Sinclair almost is a jerk except for his great...more

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Sep 19, 2012 Amanda rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance

This is one of the best romances that I have read in a long time. It has it all: meddling secondary characters, a competitive hero and heroine, and a dunk in a fountain at a ball. Hawkins is at her best with this story. There is cracking wit, what I would call "true angst," that of balancing family obligations with a personal life, but most of all, it is funny. The scenes are original, yet are believable for the time period. The characters seem like people one would want to meet in every day lif...more

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Nov 26, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

HOW TO CAPTURE A COUNTESS by Karen Hawkins is an exciting historical romance set in Floors Castle,Scotland. Fresh new series with a fresh new plot. Visit Floors Castle,Scotland and its cast of characters with their wicked ways,Scottish countryside,notorious rakehell,witty banter,nefarious plans,revenge,and a battle of the sexes. Meet, Lord Alton Sinclair,"Lord Sin" and Rose Balfour and follow them on a journey of love,passion,desire, and a battle of the sexes. Who will surrender in this intrigui...more

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Nov 04, 2012 The Window Seat added it · review of another edition

I love Screwball comedies of the 30’s and 40’s. Watching the hero and heroine verbally sparring with one another or getting caught in the most hilarious circumstances, surrounded by silly but loveable side characters, all while dancing around their attraction for one another. Reading through Karen Hawkins latest book How to Capture a Countess I have to believe that she had DVD’s of Bringing Up Baby or The Philadelphia Story playing somewhere in the background as she wrote, because every part of...more

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Apr 21, 2013 Kym Collar rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Very light-hearted, funny, and satisfying. Witty dialogue, amusing situations, a manipulative great-aunt, and two strong leads make for a pleasing story. No graphic sex, but not too tame either. The main characters are very strong, competitive, and stubborn with somewhat similar family histories, especially in regards to taking on adult responsibilities at young ages. There is, of course, the obligatory happy ending for the story, but realistically speaking, I wouldn't give it a lifetime HEA, be...more

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Mar 31, 2013 Lover of Romance rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, historical-romance, regency

When Rose was seventeen, she was very innocent and impulsive, and kissed Lord Sinclair, but overwhelmed by the sensations, ended up pushing him into a fountain and fleeing the scene and hiding from everyone inculding him, and leaving him to face the consequences, and Lord Sinclair has been wanting revengefor six years, and has found her again and is determined to get back at her, only he never thought he would fall in love with her. Rose, regretting her foolish act six years ago, has lived in th...more

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Jan 16, 2013 Jo rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013

It throws me out of a story when American phrasing is used by alledgedly British characters. It only happened twice, but it threw me at key moments in the story. And yes, I too got a little shaken when I was reminded the hero was blonde when I kept seeing the cover's dark-haired gentleman.

Otherwise, great back-and-forth between the hero and the heroine, but he misbehaved often, and was sometimes downright mean to the heroine (she was more forgiving than I'd be. Drycleaning bills would be the lea...more

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Nov 14, 2012 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: romance-historical

3.5 stars. Another fun romance from Ms Hawkins. The back and forth between Rose and Lord Sin is witty and makes their romance more interesting. The one thing that seems a little off, and the reason that I gave it a cut in stars is that (view spoiler)...more

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Oct 29, 2012 Tonya Warner rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Wonderful story.

Lord Sin has met his match in fiesty Rose Balfour. While Lord Alron Sinclair had to live with the aftermath of a very public dunking, Rose had been shuttled back to the family manor in disgrace. Having the chance to try once again to be in polite society, Rose finds that Sin is worth every thing.

Sin might have wanted to best Rose, and put her in her place after his last run in with her, but meeting up with her, and having the interference of his meddling Aunt Margaret to contend...more

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Mar 29, 2013 Danielle rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013

not to bad. sin is kind of a jerk, but not as bad as some. he sets out to seduce her because as a fresh out debutante she accidentally pushes him into a fountain. which makes him a laughingstock, but ruins her. which he neither notices nor cares. of course. he sets off on a swath of rakish behavior, until his grandmother decides she's had enough and conspires to get the two together to end his behavior. he decides to seduce rose as payment for humiliating him, while she, still a virgin albeit a...more

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Oct 22, 2012 Chelsey rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This is the first in a new series by Karen Hawkins and it sets the tone quite nicely for the rest of the books to come! We are introduced to Rose Balfour, the first of the three Balfour sisters. We also meet Alton Sinclair, Lord Sin, a man whom Rose turned down many years prior to their encounter in this novel. They have somewhat been setup to meet again by the Duchess of Roxburghe, who is Lord Sin’s great aunt and the godmother to Rose and her three sisters. We meet all of these characters at t...more This is the first in a new series by Karen Hawkins and it sets the tone quite nicely for the rest of the books to come! We are introduced to Rose Balfour, the first of the three Balfour sisters. We also meet Alton Sinclair, Lord Sin, a man whom Rose turned down many years prior to their encounter in this novel. They have somewhat been setup to meet again by the Duchess of Roxburghe, who is Lord Sin’s great aunt and the godmother to Rose and her three sisters. We meet all of these characters at the annual house party and Winter Ball held by the Duchess of Roxburghe, who became one of my favorite characters.

Rose Balfour is a subtle character in that she is a natural beauty who does not even realize the glowing effect that she has on the people around her. My favorite parts were when she was in conversation with Lord Sin and she could not help but chuckle at the fact that she has left him empty-handed years before. It was almost as if she was proud of herself and I found that to be rather enjoyable. Rose feels that immediate attraction when she sees Lord Sin once more and I knew that from that point forward I was going to be in a mess with these two!

Rose and Sin together are certainly humorous and the situations that they get themselves into while they are attending the ball are so funny to read. I love reading stories where you can feel yourself being placed in the setting and finding a somewhat cozy charm amongst the actions of the characters. The Duchess of Roxburghe and her sidekick, MacDougal, are one of the best things about this book. They set everything up nicely so that Rose and Sin have no choice but to realize how perfect they are for one another. I could just picture the Duchess and her right hand man scheming behind the scenes so that Rose and Sin would have no clue as to what was really going on. The supporting cast in this novel makes it all the more interesting to read, but sometimes takes away from Rose and Sin because they are just too hilarious to avoid.

Another aspect that I loved and admired about this novel is that Karen makes the setting a real place. She opens up the book by including a letter to her readers that notes all about the actual setting, Floors Castle. I was so impressed and eager to read this. I even checked out more about the actual castle on Karen’s website: www.karenhawkins.com. The castle felt all the more real after reading some of the facts and history that is behind it. I think something small like this can really make a book stand out.

I was so impressed with this story and cannot wait to hear about the next Balfour sister, Lily. Lily’s story is due to be released in June 2013, I believe. Please do head over to Karen’s website and see all the wonderful books that she has written. This is an author that you will not regret picking up especially if you are in the mood for some romance!

***A big thank you to Karen and her publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
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Nov 16, 2012 Elis Madison rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: era-regency, fresh-quirks, hero-damaged, hero-needs-colonoscopy-2-find-head, made-me-laugh-in-a-good-way, we-don-t-need-no-stinkin-logic

He's a young rake wannabe. She's an ingénue pretending to be worldly in order to attract him. They connect in a quiet spot in a garden, near a fountain. They kiss. He gropes. She panics—and shoves.

Lord Sinclair, once known as "Lord Sin," surfaces to the laughter of his peers, and goes on with the moniker, "Lord Fin" (thanks to the fish that hopped out of his pocket as he swiped the lotus leaf off his leaky powdered wig). He's convinced that the vixen did it on purpose, and he wants to punish her...more

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Sep 15, 2012 Kat rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, review, romance, read-2012

My review cross-posted from Joyfully Reviewed: http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com/new-r...

As a young woman, Rose Balfour desperately wanted to catch the attention of the rakish Lord Alton Sinclair. Knowing proper young society misses would never capture the earl’s interest, Rose pretended to be more worldly than she was. Until things went a bit too far and Rose panicked and pushed Sin into a fountain, leaving him to the mockery of his peers while she fled.

Six years have passed since that fateful da...more My review cross-posted from Joyfully Reviewed: http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com/new-r...

As a young woman, Rose Balfour desperately wanted to catch the attention of the rakish Lord Alton Sinclair. Knowing proper young society misses would never capture the earl’s interest, Rose pretended to be more worldly than she was. Until things went a bit too far and Rose panicked and pushed Sin into a fountain, leaving him to the mockery of his peers while she fled.

Six years have passed since that fateful day, but Sin hasn’t forgotten the woman who humiliated him. When he learns that his aunt, the Duchess of Roxburghe, is Rose’s godmother, he convinces the duchess to invite Rose to her annual house party. Yet when Sin meets Rose again, he finds he cannot resister her any more than he could six years ago. Sin is determined to seduce and ruin Rose, but will his plan for vengeance be thwarted by his own heart?

How to Capture a Countess is a bit of a problematic book to review. I love the premise of the series: the fascinating, crafty Duchess of Roxburghe is determined to find matches for the three Balfour sisters. Indeed, the duchess brings energy and common sense to How to Capture a Countess in every scene she’s in, making her (in my opinion) the true heroine of the book. Sadly, though Karen Hawkins made me adore the duchess, I had a bit of a problem liking the book’s intended hero and heroine. Rose was a likeable, intelligent woman, but it was hard for me to connect with her when she fell in love with – and makes excuses for – a man who wasn’t worthy of her. For most of How to Capture a Countess, Sin acts like a child. I can see why he’s still angry about the damage done to his reputation. However, his continued quest for vengeance – after he (1) he learns that Rose could have had no idea what her actions brought about and (2) he can see she’s truly apologetic for things that weren’t even mostly her fault – irritated me. Sin’s focus on ruining Rose makes him seem petulant, childish, and mean. Unfortunately, he acts this way for much of the book. The fact that Rose accepts and even seems to think she’s earned his continued wrath made me want to throw How to Capture a Countess across the room a few times. By the time the book reached its conclusion, I just couldn’t bring myself to cheer for Rose and Sin’s “happily ever after.”

It’s difficult for me to give How to Capture a Countess a bad review, for it is the first book of Ms. Hawkins’s I haven’t liked. That being said, I simply did not like the plot or protagonists, which made it impossible for me to enjoy Rose and Sin’s book. Even so, I am looking forward to the other Duchess Diaries books, for the problems I had with How to Capture a Countess were specific to the book. While How to Capture a Countess wasn’t the book for me, I remain a fan of Ms. Hawkins’s work.(less)

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Oct 19, 2012 Lindsay Allison rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance

4 out 5 stars.

There's a reason that Karen Hawkins is my favorite romance author - she's good at what she does. Her books are funny, light hearted, and the perfect afternoon escape. I've been eagerly anticipating her new series after her fantastic Hurst Amulet series came to an end earlier this year.

Rose Balfour was fascinated by and attracted to Lord Sinclair, or "Lord Sin", at the tender age of sixteen. Feeling bold (and full of champagne) one night she attemps to catch his attention and steal...more 4 out 5 stars.

There's a reason that Karen Hawkins is my favorite romance author - she's good at what she does. Her books are funny, light hearted, and the perfect afternoon escape. I've been eagerly anticipating her new series after her fantastic Hurst Amulet series came to an end earlier this year.

Rose Balfour was fascinated by and attracted to Lord Sinclair, or "Lord Sin", at the tender age of sixteen. Feeling bold (and full of champagne) one night she attemps to catch his attention and steal a kiss from him. She succeeds right up to the point when she pushes him into the fountain. Feeling humiliated at her own forward actions, Rose runs off to the country side while Lord Sin is left to deal with the fallout on his own.

Lord Sinclair was furious when she pushed him into the fountain. He was irrate when she disappeared. He searched for her, wishing to exact his revenge, with no luck. Eventually moving on, he pursued flirts, drinking, gambling, and a life of pleasure. It's only when he finds out his great-aunt Margaret has invited Rose to her house party that he finally returns home.

He makes his intentions clear: He is going to seduce her. He is going to get what he was accused of getting six years earlier. He is going to have his revenge on the cold woman who humiliated him and then ran off. It's a battle of the sexes and both sides are determined to win.

Hawkins has done a "battle of the sexes" book before with "The Laird who Loved Me" in her Maclean Curse series, but despite the similarities, this book was really entertaining. I loved the side characters of Aunt Margaret and Lady Charlotte who seemed to be a help and a hindrance all at once. I loved the scenes with the Roxbourghe pugs whose sole function was to create chaos.

**SPOILER ALERT**

I was surprised to see Rose refuse Sin's proposal of marriage when she is "ruined". Typically the couple is forced to wed in such circumstances - even if they don't want to be married. So I was pleasantly surprised to see her refuse him. It was a nice change of pace.

I also really liked the descpritions of Sin after Rose left. I thought Hawkins did a great job of describing his fall from grace. It was beautifully written.

And of course, the ending - I loved that it started in the same way it ended: with a fountain.(less)

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Sep 21, 2012 Robin (RBBR) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: author-karen-hawkins, historical-romance, the-duchess-diaries-series

Normally I'm not a fast reader, matter of fact I'm pretty slow but every once in awhile I come a cross a book that I read in record time. This is one of them. It came out September 18th but despite wanting to be able to buy it as soon as it appeared on the shelf I didn't get a chance to purchase it until the 19th. I started reading that evening and finished it on the night of the 20th.

One of the theme's of this one seems to be love at first site although the Hero (Sin aka Lord Sinclair) and Her...more Normally I'm not a fast reader, matter of fact I'm pretty slow but every once in awhile I come a cross a book that I read in record time. This is one of them. It came out September 18th but despite wanting to be able to buy it as soon as it appeared on the shelf I didn't get a chance to purchase it until the 19th. I started reading that evening and finished it on the night of the 20th.

One of the theme's of this one seems to be love at first site although the Hero (Sin aka Lord Sinclair) and Heroine (Rose Balfour) don't realize it until much later. She like most other females finds him amazingly handsome and notices him far more than he her. Although they were apparently introduced on a number of occasions he remembers none of them. The Ball where they meet and he is aware of far more than he is when it comes to any other female sets the two of them on a course that changes them and leads to misinterpretations. Unlike most books where this happens there is very little conclusion jumping and when they do talk they actually have a conversation and listen to each other. I wish I could give an extra star just for that. One of my greatest annoyances is when characters (or people in reality for that matter) jump to a conclusion, don't let the other person explain and then later accuse them of lying. As a result of what happens to him on the night they meet and he remembers at first he thinks she is like all other females he has met who only seem to be interested in his Title and his money not him but then he realizes that if that had been the case she would not have fled the scene and disappeared. The scene which changed their lives involves a fountain and toward the end of the book when their HEA is set there is a fountain involved. I rather liked the symbolism of it.

The major portion of the book takes place 6 years after the fateful night during the course of three weeks. It turns out that the person Sin has been looking for and his Aunt knew who he was looking for is one of her many Godchildren. She has so many she doesn't even realize who they are and her companion\friend Charlotte who seems to also act as Secretary sends them all Birthday Cards and Michaelmas gifts. The Duchess of Roxburghe (Rose's Godmother and Sin's Aunt - Great Aunt to be exact) and Charlotte are discussing how the fateful night has affected Sin in addition to some other events in his life and how they really need to find this person because part of the problem is some unresolved issues between the two. This is when she finds out the person Sin has been looking for is her Godchild. Not sure how long Charlotte has been keeping track of the Godchildren (I think MacDougal the Butler also helps make sure they're all remembered) but for what ever reason the connection just registered for she and the Duchess so they set about helping Sin resolve his issues.

The only bad thing I found was the cover. Its a nice cover but the Hero is described as being a blond and there are a number of references to his blond hair. Not sure why this bothers me so much but I find it very irritating when the hair color of either the Hero and\or Heroine is wrong since it seems to be the most noticeable thing on the cover and one of the first things mentioned when describing them.

Definitely another page turner by Karen Hawkins and a must read.(less)

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Sep 23, 2012 Lisa rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: karen-hawkins, historical-romance

This was my first time reading Karen Hawkins and it will not be my last! This was a fun, sexy battle of wills between Rose and Lord Sinclair, aptly nicknamed Sin. Six years ago, the alluring Rose seduced Sin with her plain appearance but sparkling eyes and just as they are enjoying a very heated kiss, she pushes him into the fountain and the whole party quickly sees everything. And instead of properly apologizing, Rose's nerves get the best of her and she laughs....and everyone else quickly foll...more This was my first time reading Karen Hawkins and it will not be my last! This was a fun, sexy battle of wills between Rose and Lord Sinclair, aptly nicknamed Sin. Six years ago, the alluring Rose seduced Sin with her plain appearance but sparkling eyes and just as they are enjoying a very heated kiss, she pushes him into the fountain and the whole party quickly sees everything. And instead of properly apologizing, Rose's nerves get the best of her and she laughs....and everyone else quickly follows leading Sin to be the bearer of many 'Lord Fin' jokes in the years to follow and it does not help matters that Rose just up and disappeared and he has been unable to locate her all these years. Yet, he suddenly becomes aware of her identity by his aunt...who just happens to be Rose's godmother and the Duchess of Roxburghe knows it is time for this couple to re-meet and overcome their past. What follows is a delightful series of one-upmanships between Rose and Sin, as neither as the ability to back down from a challenge. But when one bet goes to far and forces Rose to flee again, will Sin see the truth of his heart, that is so obvious to everyone else?

It was so much fun watching the plain, awkward Rose bloom into herself, full of confidence, independence, laughter, curiosity and a bit of stubbornness. She is the perfect foil to Sin with his roguish, controlled reputation and his need to be the best of everything. Together, their battle of wills, from archery to horse racing, leads to quite a few fun moments! I loved their first meeting after the incident...lets just say, library ladders will never be the same :) The secondary characters, including a pack of pugs, also add their own humor and prove to be worthy opponents in Sin's battle to get Rose alone and seduce her. I was a bit hesitant in the beginning as I do not really like when the hero sets out to seduce the heroine and that is it but Rose proves to be smarter than Sin anticipates and their relationship develops at a pace I really enjoyed as a result. Overall, a fun, feisty battle of wills! I can't wait for the next two stories featuring Rose's sisters! 4 stars(less)

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Oct 29, 2012 Cherie Jensen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: library

Had a difficult time putting this one down to eat let alone sleep! It was consistently great throughout. There are several very funny scenes when the two are competing: galloping, archery, pall-mall. I like stories where the man does the pursuing. Of course, he thought he was pursuing to get revenge but the rest of us, including his great aunt, knew better. Rose is awesome, innocent with the right amount of natural sensuality. Her refreshing personality reeled him in. Very, very enjoyable read.

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Sep 22, 2012 Kaz rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Enjoyed both characters in this book. Easy light read. Would have preferred a longer more detailed and sensual ending ie: another sex scene since they only had one in the whole book and they were pining after each other the whole time. Disappointed in the cover again . Why is it so hard to procure covers with the correct coloring of the characters . To me the cover represents the visual needed when reading the books. This is why I've only given the book 3 stars. Frustrating!

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Apr 10, 2013 Jenni Ebba rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I love Hawkins witty historical romances. Her characters are believable and reflect the same sense of humor I enjoy in a romance. If only they weren't such quick reads... but that is neither here nor there. This novel is fast paced and sigh worthy. Fans of Brenda DeWarren series will rejoice with this author's HR. What I truly love about a historical romance can be found in this one in abundance (lots of romance, Scottish pride, and a helping of damsel showing up her intended!)

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Jan 30, 2013 Ellie Emery rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I really enjoyed this one. It had such a lighthearted story behind it that made you not want to put it down. The characters were perfectly developed that you didn't feel overwhelmed with them. My favorite person was not the main characters but one that was equally important and fun. The great aunt made the book for me, her and those mischievous pugs. For those who want a lighthearted and fun read this is one for you.

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How to Capture a Countess (The Duchess Diaries #1)

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