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Dukes Behaving Badly #1.5
When Good Earls Go Bad
Megan Frampton's Dukes Behaving Badly series is back, though this time it's an earl who's meeting his match in a delightfully fun and sexy novella!
What's a lovely young woman doing asleep in his bed? Matthew, Earl of Selkirk, is shocked to discover it's his new housekeeper! She's a far cry from the gray-haired woman he expected. Matthew is no fan of surprises, and Annabelle Tyne is pure temptation. Perhaps he shouldn't have had her hired sight unseen.
Annabelle, co-owner of the Quality Employment Agency, is no housekeeper, but she wasn't about to lose a potential client simply because there was no one to fit the bill. Imagine her shock when the earl arrives at his London townhome and she's awoken in the night by the most attractive man she's ever seen.
Matthew is a man who lives life by the rules, but sometimes rules are made to be broken … and being bad can be very, very good.
What's a lovely young woman doing asleep in his bed? Matthew, Earl of Selkirk, is shocked to discover it's his new housekeeper! She's a far cry from the gray-haired woman he expected. Matthew is no fan of surprises, and Annabelle Tyne is pure temptation. Perhaps he shouldn't have had her hired sight unseen.
Annabelle, co-owner of the Quality Employment Agency, is no housekeeper, but she wasn't about to lose a potential client simply because there was no one to fit the bill. Imagine her shock when the earl arrives at his London townhome and she's awoken in the night by the most attractive man she's ever seen.
Matthew is a man who lives life by the rules, but sometimes rules are made to be broken … and being bad can be very, very good.
143 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 3, 2015
74 people are currently reading
683 people want to read
About the author
Megan Frampton
41 books1,054 followersMegan Frampton's love affair with books began when her parents moved her to a remote town in New Hampshire where there was only one television station. And then the TV broke. She devoured every book of fiction in her well-read parents' library, finding special joy in Georgette Heyer and the fairy tales collected and translated by Andrew Lang. Megan majored in English literature at Barnard College and worked in the music industry for fifteen years. She lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband (her former intern) and her kid.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
March 26, 2023
I JUST WANT TO SCREAM ABOUT THIS VIRGIN HERO NOVELLA
February 26, 2015
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
3 Stars!
Every once in a while I love to pick up a novella. It's not as big of a commitment as a full length book and often times the story is equally satisfying. As an added bonus, novellas are short so I can read them in a single sitting. This novella was such a nice little story that kept me entertained for part of an afternoon.
Annabelle is quite the character. She says exactly what she is thinking. When an Earl needs a housekeeper for only month, she takes the position because there are no housekeepers available at her employment agency. She meets her new employer in a most interesting manner shortly after starting the position.
Matthew lives life by the rules. He does what he is supposed to do and has his life planned out. He comes to London for the period of one month to help his uncle make an important business decision. Matthew doesn't seem bothered at all by Annabelle's chatter or her inability to cook. He soon wants all of Annabelle's attention.
This was a nice little story that was sometimes a bit silly. I didn't mind the silly but it did seem like the story tried a little to hard to be funny at times. I liked Annabelle and Matthew as a couple. I have read so many stories about Earls that are the center of attention so it was really nice to read about one that was more down to earth and studious. The scene where they meet for the first time was a lot of fun and I loved the fact that they were both equally affected. It was also very refreshing to have a female lead character who actually says what she wants.
I would definitely recommend this novella to fans of historical romance. This is the first opportunity that I have had to read Megan Frampton's writing but I plan to watch for other stories in the future.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Avon Impulse via Edelweiss for the purpose of providing an honest review.
3 Stars!
Every once in a while I love to pick up a novella. It's not as big of a commitment as a full length book and often times the story is equally satisfying. As an added bonus, novellas are short so I can read them in a single sitting. This novella was such a nice little story that kept me entertained for part of an afternoon.
Annabelle is quite the character. She says exactly what she is thinking. When an Earl needs a housekeeper for only month, she takes the position because there are no housekeepers available at her employment agency. She meets her new employer in a most interesting manner shortly after starting the position.
Matthew lives life by the rules. He does what he is supposed to do and has his life planned out. He comes to London for the period of one month to help his uncle make an important business decision. Matthew doesn't seem bothered at all by Annabelle's chatter or her inability to cook. He soon wants all of Annabelle's attention.
This was a nice little story that was sometimes a bit silly. I didn't mind the silly but it did seem like the story tried a little to hard to be funny at times. I liked Annabelle and Matthew as a couple. I have read so many stories about Earls that are the center of attention so it was really nice to read about one that was more down to earth and studious. The scene where they meet for the first time was a lot of fun and I loved the fact that they were both equally affected. It was also very refreshing to have a female lead character who actually says what she wants.
I would definitely recommend this novella to fans of historical romance. This is the first opportunity that I have had to read Megan Frampton's writing but I plan to watch for other stories in the future.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Avon Impulse via Edelweiss for the purpose of providing an honest review.
February 10, 2015
Mathew, Earl of Selkirk is in need of a housekeeper during his short stay in London. Annabelle isn’t a housekeeper but, as an owner of the employment agency, it falls to her to take on the job when none of her employees are available to do so. Feather duster in hand, she takes herself off to his abode; puzzled why he doesn’t require more help, particularly a cook because really, she can’t cook, she can make tea and she can burn toast, so if he doesn’t mind burnt toast…
This book took me quite by surprise, not being the type of historical romance I’ve typically come across. There is no roguish outlaw or dark, mysterious Lord. I didn’t find a virginal maiden nor an innocent woman of nobility finding herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. No, what I found myself reading was a wicked romp with colorful, intriguing characters fumbling around each other in a delightful, spinning dance. There is inspiring friendship, wanton behavior and a building attraction that had me grinning broadly as each scene unfolded. I don’t think I could have asked for more of that something special than I found in this book.
Annabelle is a treat as a female lead, scatterbrained but willing to take on a task she is barely qualified for. She talks to herself and everyone else like a magpie, non-stop, flitting from topic to topic with hardly taking a breath. She is a bit of a wanton thing though, who with a gleam in her eye isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. In an exceptional role reversal, the pragmatic Mathew is the vulnerable one. He possesses a particular stinginess and he is self-absorbed but he also is appalled by his attraction to to Annabelle. The thoughts of “should he or shouldn’t he” and “what will she think of me afterward” that is so often characteristic of heroines rest with the Earl. They are couched in male speech but they do drive him to the edge.
I heartily recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance. It is blissfully well-written, the imagery is vibrant and the plot is enjoyably quirky. You’ll have your funny-bone tickled and you will find yourself unable to put it down. You will also want to read the other books in this series, the author will hook you just that well.
- Leila
This book took me quite by surprise, not being the type of historical romance I’ve typically come across. There is no roguish outlaw or dark, mysterious Lord. I didn’t find a virginal maiden nor an innocent woman of nobility finding herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. No, what I found myself reading was a wicked romp with colorful, intriguing characters fumbling around each other in a delightful, spinning dance. There is inspiring friendship, wanton behavior and a building attraction that had me grinning broadly as each scene unfolded. I don’t think I could have asked for more of that something special than I found in this book.
Annabelle is a treat as a female lead, scatterbrained but willing to take on a task she is barely qualified for. She talks to herself and everyone else like a magpie, non-stop, flitting from topic to topic with hardly taking a breath. She is a bit of a wanton thing though, who with a gleam in her eye isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. In an exceptional role reversal, the pragmatic Mathew is the vulnerable one. He possesses a particular stinginess and he is self-absorbed but he also is appalled by his attraction to to Annabelle. The thoughts of “should he or shouldn’t he” and “what will she think of me afterward” that is so often characteristic of heroines rest with the Earl. They are couched in male speech but they do drive him to the edge.
I heartily recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance. It is blissfully well-written, the imagery is vibrant and the plot is enjoyably quirky. You’ll have your funny-bone tickled and you will find yourself unable to put it down. You will also want to read the other books in this series, the author will hook you just that well.
- Leila
February 13, 2017
Wow.
Okay.
Safe to say, I won't be getting over this one for awhile (if ever).
I had constant mental breakdowns while reading When Good Earls Go Bad (BEST TITLE EVER OMFG). But how could I not when the plot is essentially about a grumpy Scottish earl (who's also a virgin) getting his entire state of being flipped upside down when he allows himself to be seduced by his scatterbrained but beguiling housekeeper? It felt like what I think would happen if Spock from Star Trek and Giselle from Enchanted were to meet and fall in lust, then love, with each other. Yeah I know that comparison is all kinds of zany but so was this book, in the most wonderful ways of course.
Though they were total opposites, Annabelle and Matthew still managed to bring out the best in each other. She made him smile and feel at ease for once in his life, and he listened to her, valued her opinions, valued her. I'm such a sucker for couples that make each other better. It was impossible not to fall head over heels with these two. This will be one I plan to revisit over and over again just for funsies.
EVERYONE should read this book.
Okay.
Safe to say, I won't be getting over this one for awhile (if ever).
I had constant mental breakdowns while reading When Good Earls Go Bad (BEST TITLE EVER OMFG). But how could I not when the plot is essentially about a grumpy Scottish earl (who's also a virgin) getting his entire state of being flipped upside down when he allows himself to be seduced by his scatterbrained but beguiling housekeeper? It felt like what I think would happen if Spock from Star Trek and Giselle from Enchanted were to meet and fall in lust, then love, with each other. Yeah I know that comparison is all kinds of zany but so was this book, in the most wonderful ways of course.
Though they were total opposites, Annabelle and Matthew still managed to bring out the best in each other. She made him smile and feel at ease for once in his life, and he listened to her, valued her opinions, valued her. I'm such a sucker for couples that make each other better. It was impossible not to fall head over heels with these two. This will be one I plan to revisit over and over again just for funsies.
EVERYONE should read this book.
February 9, 2015
Annabelle Tyne is a partner in an employment agency which is trying to make its mark, and provide services to members of the ton. A gentleman comes in, stating that he needs a housekeeper NOW. There is no one available, but when the gentleman mentions that this is for an earl, Annabelle decides to take on the task herself.
Matthew, the Earl of Selkirk, is Scottish, and is in England for a month to help his uncle with a business decision. He is renting a home, and doesn’t need much, but he is adamant about wanting a housekeeper. He and Annabelle have an interesting first meeting when he arrives sooner than expected, and seeks out the first bed that looks ready to be inhabited. It just so happens to be Annabelle’s , and she happens to be in it.
Matthew and Annabelle are polar opposites. He is serious, somewhat dour, and rarely smiles. Annabelle is sunshine and butterflies and a chatterbox. At first, I found her to be a little annoying, but then I realized that she was truly a happy person who was full of the joy of just living. Though we don’t get all the intimate details, Annabelle does have a past, but she’s not letting it bring her down. The earl, on the other hand, has very little experience.
This unlikely pair is immediately attracted to each other, and their close proximity soon leads to intimacy. I loved them together – she makes him smile, and he makes her feel cherished. Their time together is very limited, so what can they do when they have fallen in love? They are not only from different stations in life, but from different countries. This short novella had me smiling from beginning to end, on the way to their happy ever after, and I recommend it for a warm, sexy and feel-good read.
As posted at Roses Are Blue http://t.co/wHuHctSsjy
Matthew, the Earl of Selkirk, is Scottish, and is in England for a month to help his uncle with a business decision. He is renting a home, and doesn’t need much, but he is adamant about wanting a housekeeper. He and Annabelle have an interesting first meeting when he arrives sooner than expected, and seeks out the first bed that looks ready to be inhabited. It just so happens to be Annabelle’s , and she happens to be in it.
Matthew and Annabelle are polar opposites. He is serious, somewhat dour, and rarely smiles. Annabelle is sunshine and butterflies and a chatterbox. At first, I found her to be a little annoying, but then I realized that she was truly a happy person who was full of the joy of just living. Though we don’t get all the intimate details, Annabelle does have a past, but she’s not letting it bring her down. The earl, on the other hand, has very little experience.
This unlikely pair is immediately attracted to each other, and their close proximity soon leads to intimacy. I loved them together – she makes him smile, and he makes her feel cherished. Their time together is very limited, so what can they do when they have fallen in love? They are not only from different stations in life, but from different countries. This short novella had me smiling from beginning to end, on the way to their happy ever after, and I recommend it for a warm, sexy and feel-good read.
As posted at Roses Are Blue http://t.co/wHuHctSsjy
February 15, 2015
I really wanted to like this book. I met the author and I know she is newer to the genre and I really, really, really wanted to be able to provide a glowing review, but I just can't. This just wasn't my style. I thought the story was different from the norm and the characters unique, but I just didn't enjoy the execution.
This story is about Annabelle, a scatter-brained, chatty, fallen woman who co-owns an employment agency with some of her friends. A man comes into her agency looking for a housekeeper for a month for a Scottish earl, and Annabelle, not wanting to pass up an opportunity for her agency to serve an earl, even though they have no housekeepers available, takes on the position herself. Fortunately for her, the Earl of Selkirk, or Matthew, is not like typical earls, so he doesn't mind her incompetence (she doesn't follow class norms, cannot cook, or really know how to manage a household, but she is bright and talkative). Matthew was a stressed, responsible, virgin earl (I feel that this is not a spoiler because Frampton announced this to all potential readers at an event). I liked him. I'd like to think there were men like him back then (not all rakes who slept with scores of women) and I enjoyed him. Matthew and Annabelle have chemistry and fall in love while Annabelle lives in the earl's house, trying to be a housekeeper. This all happens right around Valentine's Day.
I had to suspend a lot of belief that a fallen woman and an earl, albeit a Scottish one, would be able to happily and easily end up together, but Frampton does not really dwell on that and instead tries to focus on the development of an attraction between the earl and Annabelle. There were two things I did not care for here. First, the internal dialogue. I know Frampton did some of the dialogue in a stream of consciousness style to show Annabelle's personality,but even the quiet earl had a touch of it so maybe this is Frampton's style. While I appreciate getting in a character's head, the constant chatter became distracting for me. The other things I did not care for were the sex scenes. I know the word cock is starting to be used with relative frequency in new romance releases and so I deal with it as best I can (I am in the "I don't like it" camp). Most authors I enjoy only use it sparingly and their sex scenes focus more on the emotion and the connection between the characters. This was not the case here. For a novella, this has pretty graphic sex scenes and the word cock was everywhere. I do not consider myself a prude, but this was too much for me. I read for the romance and these scenes were much more for the sex. Annabelle, while she was a fallen woman, I think only slept with the man who ruined her, but in this story, she appears to be as experienced as a courtesan. I am all for a woman not being a shrinking flower, but this just didn't ring true for the time period.
In a nutshell, I thought this was a more unique story with very different characters. The ending was very sweet and the characters were mostly likeable. To gauge whether you would enjoy this novella, read an excerpt before you buy. You get into Annabelle's head early so you can see if the writing style is ok for you. Next, ask yourself about sex scenes. I don't usually care for Elizabeth Hoyt or Christina Milan because of their sex scenes but if you enjoy them, I think you will be fine with this. I think Frampton is a good writer and many will enjoy her, but I am not sure she is for me. 3 stars.
This story is about Annabelle, a scatter-brained, chatty, fallen woman who co-owns an employment agency with some of her friends. A man comes into her agency looking for a housekeeper for a month for a Scottish earl, and Annabelle, not wanting to pass up an opportunity for her agency to serve an earl, even though they have no housekeepers available, takes on the position herself. Fortunately for her, the Earl of Selkirk, or Matthew, is not like typical earls, so he doesn't mind her incompetence (she doesn't follow class norms, cannot cook, or really know how to manage a household, but she is bright and talkative). Matthew was a stressed, responsible, virgin earl (I feel that this is not a spoiler because Frampton announced this to all potential readers at an event). I liked him. I'd like to think there were men like him back then (not all rakes who slept with scores of women) and I enjoyed him. Matthew and Annabelle have chemistry and fall in love while Annabelle lives in the earl's house, trying to be a housekeeper. This all happens right around Valentine's Day.
I had to suspend a lot of belief that a fallen woman and an earl, albeit a Scottish one, would be able to happily and easily end up together, but Frampton does not really dwell on that and instead tries to focus on the development of an attraction between the earl and Annabelle. There were two things I did not care for here. First, the internal dialogue. I know Frampton did some of the dialogue in a stream of consciousness style to show Annabelle's personality,but even the quiet earl had a touch of it so maybe this is Frampton's style. While I appreciate getting in a character's head, the constant chatter became distracting for me. The other things I did not care for were the sex scenes. I know the word cock is starting to be used with relative frequency in new romance releases and so I deal with it as best I can (I am in the "I don't like it" camp). Most authors I enjoy only use it sparingly and their sex scenes focus more on the emotion and the connection between the characters. This was not the case here. For a novella, this has pretty graphic sex scenes and the word cock was everywhere. I do not consider myself a prude, but this was too much for me. I read for the romance and these scenes were much more for the sex. Annabelle, while she was a fallen woman, I think only slept with the man who ruined her, but in this story, she appears to be as experienced as a courtesan. I am all for a woman not being a shrinking flower, but this just didn't ring true for the time period.
In a nutshell, I thought this was a more unique story with very different characters. The ending was very sweet and the characters were mostly likeable. To gauge whether you would enjoy this novella, read an excerpt before you buy. You get into Annabelle's head early so you can see if the writing style is ok for you. Next, ask yourself about sex scenes. I don't usually care for Elizabeth Hoyt or Christina Milan because of their sex scenes but if you enjoy them, I think you will be fine with this. I think Frampton is a good writer and many will enjoy her, but I am not sure she is for me. 3 stars.
September 18, 2015
Uh, are historical romances supposed to be this hilarious? This isn't the first historical comedy romance I've read, and I'm not even sure this was meant to be a comedy, but it was. Did I laugh? Like a rabid monkey, I did!
The internal dialogue for both Annabelle and Matthew is, honestly, what had me in stitches. They were constant reminders of that saying, "I didn't say it but you know I was thinking it!" that made them more approachable and transparent. Add Annabelle's tenancy to talk without pausing and Matthew's initial staunchness and this was a story that was easy to smile at, get lost, and really enjoy.
The true heart of the story wasn't the rules Matthew lived by or Annabelle's past or their attraction, though all of those things did play a part in their coming together. It was happiness. Annabelle said it best:
Matthew's rules were excellent but they offered no chance at being truly happy and content. He was a man accustomed to seeing to the needs of others before his own. Some men might have found happiness in that but there was a restlessness in Matthew that was almost obvious from the start. It was like he knew something was missing but couldn't exactly pinpoint what it was or figure out how to ignore it or fill it. Meeting Annabelle might have a been a stroke of luck yet it was the turning point in his life he didn't know he needed.
Annabelle wasn't hesitant to list her faults as a housekeeper or as a woman, but she also wasn't reluctant to laugh at herself if need be. Her ability to see situations clearly and not as a dewy-eyed miss made her that much more appealing to me, and who she was was a nice change of scenery as well. Like so many heroines I've encountered, I wanted her to be strong, to have a little bit of a rough past, to stand strong despite it. And you know what? She didn't disappoint.
Matthew and Annabelle's happy ending was right. She discovered in him a man who saw and appreciated her enthusiasm for life in general. He didn't try to change her or repress her. He let her be her. Matthew found a woman who grounded him in a way rules never could. She laughed with and at him, was sincere in talking with him, did her damnedest to make him smile, and put him first. That right there... That is amazing.
Fun, fast, flirty, and all around entertaining, Ms. Frampton did a wonderful job with this story. No one's dying or hiding from catastrophe or struggling to make ends meet. Aside from the rules, this is a love story about two souls needing that one special thing to make them whole and finding it in the most unlikeliest of places: each other.
(Received from Edelweiss via Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
The internal dialogue for both Annabelle and Matthew is, honestly, what had me in stitches. They were constant reminders of that saying, "I didn't say it but you know I was thinking it!" that made them more approachable and transparent. Add Annabelle's tenancy to talk without pausing and Matthew's initial staunchness and this was a story that was easy to smile at, get lost, and really enjoy.
The true heart of the story wasn't the rules Matthew lived by or Annabelle's past or their attraction, though all of those things did play a part in their coming together. It was happiness. Annabelle said it best:
"I learned a long time ago that what it is right for me is not right for others. I do so hope that happiness is right for you, my lord." (Kindle, Loc 559 of 2163)
Matthew's rules were excellent but they offered no chance at being truly happy and content. He was a man accustomed to seeing to the needs of others before his own. Some men might have found happiness in that but there was a restlessness in Matthew that was almost obvious from the start. It was like he knew something was missing but couldn't exactly pinpoint what it was or figure out how to ignore it or fill it. Meeting Annabelle might have a been a stroke of luck yet it was the turning point in his life he didn't know he needed.
Annabelle wasn't hesitant to list her faults as a housekeeper or as a woman, but she also wasn't reluctant to laugh at herself if need be. Her ability to see situations clearly and not as a dewy-eyed miss made her that much more appealing to me, and who she was was a nice change of scenery as well. Like so many heroines I've encountered, I wanted her to be strong, to have a little bit of a rough past, to stand strong despite it. And you know what? She didn't disappoint.
Matthew and Annabelle's happy ending was right. She discovered in him a man who saw and appreciated her enthusiasm for life in general. He didn't try to change her or repress her. He let her be her. Matthew found a woman who grounded him in a way rules never could. She laughed with and at him, was sincere in talking with him, did her damnedest to make him smile, and put him first. That right there... That is amazing.
Fun, fast, flirty, and all around entertaining, Ms. Frampton did a wonderful job with this story. No one's dying or hiding from catastrophe or struggling to make ends meet. Aside from the rules, this is a love story about two souls needing that one special thing to make them whole and finding it in the most unlikeliest of places: each other.
(Received from Edelweiss via Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
December 6, 2017
OMG I loved this! It was so cute and this is the first time I've read a book where the hero is shy, it's really refreshing!
December 29, 2021
This was disappointing because it was so rushed and they barely even knew much about each other before they decided, ‘oh I’m in love’.
I couldn’t believe in their romance. Their relationship needed more bonding and building.
While I liked Matthew because it was refreshing to see a virgin hero who is shy and a proper gentleman, I found it hard to like Annabelle. She talks too much, she tends to ramble on and on about the stuff I don’t see the point of her speaking about. The only good trait about her was her positive vibe.
But other than that, she or Matthew didn’t have much going for them to make me love them because the author did not let us see their detailed personalities which was lacking in this book.
The hero and heroine needed more ‘substance’ and the plot needed more buffing up.
I couldn’t believe in their romance. Their relationship needed more bonding and building.
While I liked Matthew because it was refreshing to see a virgin hero who is shy and a proper gentleman, I found it hard to like Annabelle. She talks too much, she tends to ramble on and on about the stuff I don’t see the point of her speaking about. The only good trait about her was her positive vibe.
But other than that, she or Matthew didn’t have much going for them to make me love them because the author did not let us see their detailed personalities which was lacking in this book.
The hero and heroine needed more ‘substance’ and the plot needed more buffing up.
February 13, 2023
Aspergers, virgin, Scottish Earl unexpectedly falls in love with the joyous, talkative, ADHD, (compromised, "fallen woman") owner of a help business pressed into being his housekeeper. Utterly darling!! Hurrah for Matthew for following his heart!! Novella. Quick happy read.
March 26, 2021
This relationship was too quick but who would not want a hot scots man!
June 24, 2015
I much loved Megan Frampton's previous novel in the series, The Duke’s Guide to Correct Behavior (in fact, it's one of my favourite books of the year), but When Good Earls Go Bad disappointed me more at every new page. The set up is similar to The Duke's Guide's: a client arrives at the Quality Employment Agency, there isn't an housekeeper at hand, so one of the agency's owner, Annabelle Tyne, goes in her stead. She obviously falls in love with her employer, the Earl of Serkirk, and the two of them live happily ever after. The characters are posed to have a good friction: Annabelle is a "fallen woman" who already had a relationship with a man (failed of course), she's very loquacious, spontaneous and joyful, while Matthew, the Earl, is a very serious, business-minded, not-so-open virgin man. I hoped that the conflict would spark when Matthew learnt of Annabelle's previous relationship: would a virgin hero, in 1840, accept a woman who has more experience than him? Would a very proper Earl accept an housekeeper as wife? Unfortunately, these topics are glossed over in the novel, at its detriment.
I get that Frampton wanted to give us a symphatetic hero, but it's a matter of historical mindset and plausibility. Personally, I believe that every upper class man, in 1840, would be suspectful of an heroine who takes charges in bed, especially if he's a virgin and she's presented as a "respectable" lady; or at least he would ask her where she had learnt to do what she does. I also have problems believing that his family would welcome an housekeeper as future countess as easily as they do here ("His sisters, naturally enough, adored her, and his mother melted when Annabelle insisted on making her tea just the way she liked.) I also have troubles believing that a business man as Matthew's uncle would speak of February 14th as Valentine's Day while talking about a business meeting (it's not Christmas, for heaven's sake)
Moreover, Matthew's plans at the very beginning are to find a good wife in the next few months. Given that he's described as very serious and proper, wouldn't it be a problem for him to deflower (in his imagination) a respectable woman without having serious intentions about her? Frampton doesn't follow the logical consequences of the personalities she gave to her characters, and this is bad, because I believe the novel would had benefitted enormously from the logical conflicts within reach.
While Matthew is described as logical (but isn't), Annabelle is repeatedly described as literal, only to appear (to me at least) more stupid than literal. "Right now she had two quite uncooked pork chops, along with some vegetables, also uncooked, and some wine. She didn't know if wine was cooked or not, but somehow she doubted it was." Is this meant to be a quip? I'd call it stupidity, plain and simple.
I do hope that Put Up Your Duke is better than this.
March 25, 2015
Thank you to AVON and Edelweiss for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
When Good Earls Go Bad is the story of Annabelle and Matthew, a ‘fallen’ woman and the Scottish Earl who goes against the logic he lives by and falls in love with her. This was a sweet little novella. Annabelle, one of three owners of an employment agency, is caught between a rock and a hard place when a man comes in demanding a housekeeper for an Earl who will be arriving in town immediately. While there’s no one available to fill the position, Annabelle knows how good it would look for her business to serve an Earl, so she takes on the job herself.
I really enjoyed Annabelle’s character. She was a busy bee kind of person, always needing something to do. An endless stream chatter filled her mind, and while it drove me a bit nuts at first, her character quickly grew on me. She was so friendly and candid. Matthew, the Scottish Earl, kept me laughing. He was very logical and literal, and there was something about that that made him so charming. He wasn’t your typical hero—smooth was definitely not a word that fit him, but he was determined to win his heroine!
It was nice to see characters falling in love because of something they had in common. Annabelle and Matthew both loved to read and were very level-headed, and they enjoyed spending time talking with each other. And while their attraction happened quickly, it wasn’t without their characters thinking things through.
Matthew leaned forward to her. “How do you do that?”
“Do what?” she said, glancing around as though she’d done something.
“Make everyone you’re speaking to feel as though they’re the only person in the world you wish to speak to.”
The love scenes in this book are best described as tender. It was nice to read about a man from this time period who hasn’t left a string of lovers behind, but is right there with the heroine in discovering how to please his lover. And interestingly enough, this book covered contraception, which you don’t read much about in Victorian or Regency books. It didn’t feel out of place. I thought it was fitting for Annabelle. Her unending curiosity would have caused her to stumble upon the subject at some point.
The plot of this book was similar to the first one in the series, but I enjoyed it regardless. The characters were different enough to give this story a new feel to it. One of the things I really enjoy about this author is that she manages to keep the drama to a minimum while still engaging the reader with her plots. These are characters going about their everyday lives who just happen to find love.
Overall, When Good Earls Go Bad was a sweet, romantic story that kept me wanting more until the very end. I can’t wait for the next one in this series!
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
3.5 stars
When Good Earls Go Bad is the story of Annabelle and Matthew, a ‘fallen’ woman and the Scottish Earl who goes against the logic he lives by and falls in love with her. This was a sweet little novella. Annabelle, one of three owners of an employment agency, is caught between a rock and a hard place when a man comes in demanding a housekeeper for an Earl who will be arriving in town immediately. While there’s no one available to fill the position, Annabelle knows how good it would look for her business to serve an Earl, so she takes on the job herself.
I really enjoyed Annabelle’s character. She was a busy bee kind of person, always needing something to do. An endless stream chatter filled her mind, and while it drove me a bit nuts at first, her character quickly grew on me. She was so friendly and candid. Matthew, the Scottish Earl, kept me laughing. He was very logical and literal, and there was something about that that made him so charming. He wasn’t your typical hero—smooth was definitely not a word that fit him, but he was determined to win his heroine!
It was nice to see characters falling in love because of something they had in common. Annabelle and Matthew both loved to read and were very level-headed, and they enjoyed spending time talking with each other. And while their attraction happened quickly, it wasn’t without their characters thinking things through.
Matthew leaned forward to her. “How do you do that?”
“Do what?” she said, glancing around as though she’d done something.
“Make everyone you’re speaking to feel as though they’re the only person in the world you wish to speak to.”
The love scenes in this book are best described as tender. It was nice to read about a man from this time period who hasn’t left a string of lovers behind, but is right there with the heroine in discovering how to please his lover. And interestingly enough, this book covered contraception, which you don’t read much about in Victorian or Regency books. It didn’t feel out of place. I thought it was fitting for Annabelle. Her unending curiosity would have caused her to stumble upon the subject at some point.
The plot of this book was similar to the first one in the series, but I enjoyed it regardless. The characters were different enough to give this story a new feel to it. One of the things I really enjoy about this author is that she manages to keep the drama to a minimum while still engaging the reader with her plots. These are characters going about their everyday lives who just happen to find love.
Overall, When Good Earls Go Bad was a sweet, romantic story that kept me wanting more until the very end. I can’t wait for the next one in this series!
This review was originally posted at Badass Book Reviews.
January 27, 2015
When Good Earls Go Bad was one of the stories that didn't work out for me, even though the premise was right up my alley. Annabelle, the heroine, is the co-owner of an agency for housekeepers, and a "fallen woman", who has to work as a housekeeper for the Scottish Earl Matthew.
The one element that is hit or miss is the narration. If you don't like the quirky narration of stories like Darynda Jones' First Grave on the Right, then I can almost promise you that you will not enjoy this one. Annabelle's quirky voice was a bit too much, even for me. I assume it might be the author's normal "voice", because even the uptight, "I don't like to waste time", Earl had a, admittedly still uptight, quirky voice. The narration made it feel as if the story was a Contemporary Romance in Regency clothing. - That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it threw me off a bit too often.
Maybe it's due to this that the characters were too much personifications of popular tropes than characters on their own; the rules-loving Matthew, who meets the adorably confused and chatty Annabelle. Even though the story employed new elements that would have otherwise stirred my interest () the author's voice was so strong that it prevented me from really feeling the story as a story. I was always aware that what I was reading was make-belief, and couldn't connect with the characters because of that.
But here lies my problem: Everything I might criticise is directly related to the fact that I never became emotionally invested in the story due to, or so I assume, the "I don't have Attenti-oh a bunny!"-narration. I think people who don't mind this -read an excerpt to check!- might very much enjoy When Good Earls Go Bad. It certainly is different from your normal historical romance, in that the hero isn't a rake with vast experience, or in that the heroine makes her desires known and isn't shy to show her affection. No long discussions about their status, or what the ton might say, instead actual talk about condoms. All almost unheard of, sadly.
That's why I regret that I personally couldn't enjoy the story. It's almost been made for me, except that the concept worked better for me than the execution.
The one element that is hit or miss is the narration. If you don't like the quirky narration of stories like Darynda Jones' First Grave on the Right, then I can almost promise you that you will not enjoy this one. Annabelle's quirky voice was a bit too much, even for me. I assume it might be the author's normal "voice", because even the uptight, "I don't like to waste time", Earl had a, admittedly still uptight, quirky voice. The narration made it feel as if the story was a Contemporary Romance in Regency clothing. - That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it threw me off a bit too often.
Maybe it's due to this that the characters were too much personifications of popular tropes than characters on their own; the rules-loving Matthew, who meets the adorably confused and chatty Annabelle. Even though the story employed new elements that would have otherwise stirred my interest () the author's voice was so strong that it prevented me from really feeling the story as a story. I was always aware that what I was reading was make-belief, and couldn't connect with the characters because of that.
But here lies my problem: Everything I might criticise is directly related to the fact that I never became emotionally invested in the story due to, or so I assume, the "I don't have Attenti-oh a bunny!"-narration. I think people who don't mind this -read an excerpt to check!- might very much enjoy When Good Earls Go Bad. It certainly is different from your normal historical romance, in that the hero isn't a rake with vast experience, or in that the heroine makes her desires known and isn't shy to show her affection. No long discussions about their status, or what the ton might say, instead actual talk about condoms. All almost unheard of, sadly.
That's why I regret that I personally couldn't enjoy the story. It's almost been made for me, except that the concept worked better for me than the execution.
January 29, 2015
I received a ARC copy in exchange for a honest review.
Annabella, has had to make her own way of living, and is the co owner of the employment agency. She is approached and requested to have a housekeeper for the Earl of Selkirk. With no one else in the office, Annabelle, knows she can’t pass up the opportunity to have a Earl in their records. So she goes in herself as the housekeeper. Matthew, the Earl of Selkirk, is a Scot, and has come down to help his uncle with some investments. When he sees a young woman in his bed, he is surprised to say the least. But then he learns that she is his housekeeper, and soon a attraction turns into undeniable desire. A passionate affair forms between the Earl and his housekeeper. But will their status make a difference when it comes to matters of the heart?
This was such a sweet and short novella, and really loved it. I am starting to love this newer author, Megan Frampton. This novella, was short, but it was a nice little diversion for the day, and I enjoyed this couple. They were so charming, and endearing for each other. And boy do they know how to conduct a passionate affair…and the whole feather duster…loved how that played a part in their intimate play. I had never seen that used before, so cheers to Frampton for ingenuity and unique use of objects to add a playful tone to the story. I did have a few reservations for the story, I felt like there could have been a bit more development in the love story. I know it can be hard to do when writing a novella, but I never felt the full love connection. But I did like how well the characters seemed to be portrayed with depth and substance.
This story is a win for me, even though I am not a huge fan of the novella’s, since I prefer a more developed and more in depth story, but this one proved to be lighthearted and fun with a mix of sassy fun.
Annabella, has had to make her own way of living, and is the co owner of the employment agency. She is approached and requested to have a housekeeper for the Earl of Selkirk. With no one else in the office, Annabelle, knows she can’t pass up the opportunity to have a Earl in their records. So she goes in herself as the housekeeper. Matthew, the Earl of Selkirk, is a Scot, and has come down to help his uncle with some investments. When he sees a young woman in his bed, he is surprised to say the least. But then he learns that she is his housekeeper, and soon a attraction turns into undeniable desire. A passionate affair forms between the Earl and his housekeeper. But will their status make a difference when it comes to matters of the heart?
This was such a sweet and short novella, and really loved it. I am starting to love this newer author, Megan Frampton. This novella, was short, but it was a nice little diversion for the day, and I enjoyed this couple. They were so charming, and endearing for each other. And boy do they know how to conduct a passionate affair…and the whole feather duster…loved how that played a part in their intimate play. I had never seen that used before, so cheers to Frampton for ingenuity and unique use of objects to add a playful tone to the story. I did have a few reservations for the story, I felt like there could have been a bit more development in the love story. I know it can be hard to do when writing a novella, but I never felt the full love connection. But I did like how well the characters seemed to be portrayed with depth and substance.
This story is a win for me, even though I am not a huge fan of the novella’s, since I prefer a more developed and more in depth story, but this one proved to be lighthearted and fun with a mix of sassy fun.
March 11, 2015
When Good Earls Go Bad is a breezy, fast-paced story between a strait laced Earl and his housekeeper-that-is-not.
The writing style is witty and humorous, like Tessa Dare and Julia Quinn. Some of the repartee and droll observations made me laugh, however I felt on a few occasions that the writing was trying too hard. Not enough room was given to the characters to breathe and develop, and the focus was on cramming every para with witticisms.
Another thing that I disliked was that the social mores and tenets of the day were completely thrown away. I understand the need to dispense them for the sake of the romance, but if the setting is Regency England- let it seem a little like that.
"I’m not so certain you are an earl after all. You certainly don’t do what normal earls do.”
This is what the housekeeper throws back at her employer, on the morning of their first introduction..
I like the author's writing style and her talent at keeping the plot interesting. However, some better editing would have worked wonders.
The writing style is witty and humorous, like Tessa Dare and Julia Quinn. Some of the repartee and droll observations made me laugh, however I felt on a few occasions that the writing was trying too hard. Not enough room was given to the characters to breathe and develop, and the focus was on cramming every para with witticisms.
Another thing that I disliked was that the social mores and tenets of the day were completely thrown away. I understand the need to dispense them for the sake of the romance, but if the setting is Regency England- let it seem a little like that.
"I’m not so certain you are an earl after all. You certainly don’t do what normal earls do.”
This is what the housekeeper throws back at her employer, on the morning of their first introduction..
I like the author's writing style and her talent at keeping the plot interesting. However, some better editing would have worked wonders.
February 11, 2015
A fun and charming historical romance novella, When Good Earls Go Bad was a sweet read and I liked it.
Both characters were great. Matthew was inclined to logic and seriousness but he had his own wry sense of humor as well. Annabelle was effervescent and inclined to see the joy in everything. I liked them both.
The romance was great. Matthew and Annabelle were perfect together. They might have seemed really different on the surface but they were well matched and a lovely couple.
The plot was quick and kept me interested. The story was sweet and the ending was perfect.
When Good Earls Go Bad was a lovely historical romance novella. Romance lovers, if you want a quick and light read, then you'll want to look this book up.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Both characters were great. Matthew was inclined to logic and seriousness but he had his own wry sense of humor as well. Annabelle was effervescent and inclined to see the joy in everything. I liked them both.
The romance was great. Matthew and Annabelle were perfect together. They might have seemed really different on the surface but they were well matched and a lovely couple.
The plot was quick and kept me interested. The story was sweet and the ending was perfect.
When Good Earls Go Bad was a lovely historical romance novella. Romance lovers, if you want a quick and light read, then you'll want to look this book up.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 16, 2020
Such a fun read! I picked this up on sale, promptly forgot about it, and then "discovered" it while looking for something on my Kindle to read when I finished my book and didn't have wi-fi. I'm so glad I did!
Annabelle was just a delight--from her housekeeping "tips" to what went on in her head to what came out of her mouth--OMG, I giggled so much while reading this book. And the way she was the perfect foil for bringing Matthew out of his head? So. Fabulous.
My only complaints? 1) I wish it were longer and 2) that I hadn't read this one sooner!
But on the plus side, there are still a few of the books in this series I haven't read yet, which this reminded me of, so--time to get reading, obvs!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
Annabelle was just a delight--from her housekeeping "tips" to what went on in her head to what came out of her mouth--OMG, I giggled so much while reading this book. And the way she was the perfect foil for bringing Matthew out of his head? So. Fabulous.
My only complaints? 1) I wish it were longer and 2) that I hadn't read this one sooner!
But on the plus side, there are still a few of the books in this series I haven't read yet, which this reminded me of, so--time to get reading, obvs!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
February 4, 2016
Exceedingly silly and not my usual fare. This Valentine's Day themed histrom had an unusually exuberant heroine (who also owns a business) and a nerdy beta-hero Earl (who is quite serious and socially awkward). Perfectly adorable, if entirely implausible. Quite a sweet and sexy quick read. I'm not sure I could have taken a whole novel like this, but as a novella it was charming.
February 14, 2015
Great short story.
Loved this story. Matthew was a little uptight Scottish Earl, no fun just business. Then comes Annabelle the owner of an employment agency with no housekeeper available, so she takes on the job herself since it's just for month. Sparks fly and Love happens. Can't wait to read the next book by Megan Frampton.
Loved this story. Matthew was a little uptight Scottish Earl, no fun just business. Then comes Annabelle the owner of an employment agency with no housekeeper available, so she takes on the job herself since it's just for month. Sparks fly and Love happens. Can't wait to read the next book by Megan Frampton.
January 26, 2015
I really enjoyed the humor in the book but found the writing somewhat choppy. I liked both characters. Not bad for a quick novella.
January 15, 2016
I loved this novella so much! I was glad quirky Annabelle found her equally quirky, but in a different way, Earl. Matthew is reminiscent of Ian Mackenzie, who is one of my favorite heroes ever.
July 14, 2016
Annabelle was too silly in my opinion. Not what I expected based on her short appearance in The Duke's Guide to Correct Behavior
February 21, 2023
Unstarched virgin heroes are my catnip and this book was like wandering into a fully stocked Petsmart. I just wanted to roll around here for several hours and it was over SO SOON 😩😭
The only other Megan Frampton's I've read weren't nearly this sexy, so I was in heaven reading this. There was NO lack of chemistry here. Annabelle was the perfect chaos agent, Amelia Bedelia all grown up, ruined, frisky, and now running an employment agency and oh darn, she has to step in as an emergency housekeeper for a grumpy Scottish Earl. My heart is already beating faster just typing that out, because Matthew is uhh... perfection. Grumpy starchy virgin Scottsman?!! I'm sorry, I just need a moment to collect my thoughts.
You'd think they would become enemies with how different their temperaments are, but this is very soft almost instalove. He quickly becomes addicted to her caring about him (no one ever has before 🥲) and she's ... well, she's undone by how unaware of his handsomeness he is 🥹
Annabelle is so playful and easygoing, and the fact that she grabs the feather duster on the way to their first dalliance was just so perfectly in keeping with who she was. The sex was hot hot hot 🥵 and he was just so overwhelmed by all the new feelings, it was too precious 😩
I wanted this to go on and on, because I know they had a fantastically long and wondrous journey (at least five children!)
The only other Megan Frampton's I've read weren't nearly this sexy, so I was in heaven reading this. There was NO lack of chemistry here. Annabelle was the perfect chaos agent, Amelia Bedelia all grown up, ruined, frisky, and now running an employment agency and oh darn, she has to step in as an emergency housekeeper for a grumpy Scottish Earl. My heart is already beating faster just typing that out, because Matthew is uhh... perfection. Grumpy starchy virgin Scottsman?!! I'm sorry, I just need a moment to collect my thoughts.
You'd think they would become enemies with how different their temperaments are, but this is very soft almost instalove. He quickly becomes addicted to her caring about him (no one ever has before 🥲) and she's ... well, she's undone by how unaware of his handsomeness he is 🥹
Annabelle is so playful and easygoing, and the fact that she grabs the feather duster on the way to their first dalliance was just so perfectly in keeping with who she was. The sex was hot hot hot 🥵 and he was just so overwhelmed by all the new feelings, it was too precious 😩
I wanted this to go on and on, because I know they had a fantastically long and wondrous journey (at least five children!)
May 17, 2017
Take one uptight, loner of a Scot and throw in a chatty, exuberant woman who finds joy in the simplest of things. Watch the befuddlement and sparks fly.
Seriously. It's adorable. Matthew is adorable. Probably precisely because of that above mentioned befuddlement he experiences whenever Annabelle sucks him into her orbit. She's just so thrilled with life--despite the knocks she's taken along the way--that he can't help but be enchanted by her. Plus, her complete inability to treat him with the stuffiness he's used to makes him feel like more than an analytical machine prized for only his logical mind.
As for Annabelle, she's talkative and forgetful and she's a terrible cook and none of that matters when Matthew's around. She likes him. He likes her. She might be willing and able to admit how she feels, but he's a little blocked up when it comes to emotional issues.
SERIOUSLY ADORABLE.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Seriously. It's adorable. Matthew is adorable. Probably precisely because of that above mentioned befuddlement he experiences whenever Annabelle sucks him into her orbit. She's just so thrilled with life--despite the knocks she's taken along the way--that he can't help but be enchanted by her. Plus, her complete inability to treat him with the stuffiness he's used to makes him feel like more than an analytical machine prized for only his logical mind.
As for Annabelle, she's talkative and forgetful and she's a terrible cook and none of that matters when Matthew's around. She likes him. He likes her. She might be willing and able to admit how she feels, but he's a little blocked up when it comes to emotional issues.
SERIOUSLY ADORABLE.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
May 23, 2020
This was a novella from the Dukes Behaving Badly series, of which I’ve read the first book so far, so while I don’t normally go out of my way to read these little inbetween books, I was in the mood so I went ahead and continued my deep dive into this series.
I can see why Annabelle was “relegated” as such to just a novella – she must have been a challenging heroine to write. She was definitely a challenging heroine to read, even though I thought MF did a great job on not making her come across as a complete nitwit, which she very easily could have done.
As I’m starting to see with MF, her hero was of much better quality, and I enjoyed Matthew a lot. I actually thought there was good chemistry between the characters, and I don’t feel the book was hampered by the shorter length. It was enjoyable, but I did struggle with the heroine a lot.
I can see why Annabelle was “relegated” as such to just a novella – she must have been a challenging heroine to write. She was definitely a challenging heroine to read, even though I thought MF did a great job on not making her come across as a complete nitwit, which she very easily could have done.
As I’m starting to see with MF, her hero was of much better quality, and I enjoyed Matthew a lot. I actually thought there was good chemistry between the characters, and I don’t feel the book was hampered by the shorter length. It was enjoyable, but I did struggle with the heroine a lot.
October 1, 2021
Starring Matthew, Earl of Selkirk and Miss Annabelle Tyne.
Tropes : Virgin Hero, Working Class Girl, Working Earl, Wrong Bed, and Valentine’s Day.
This was such an adorable story. Sexy read… straight up romance… no conflict between the couple. Loved it!!
Matthew may be an Earl, but he doesn’t like being idle. He runs a business and doesn’t have time for frivolous things… until he meets Annabelle. She’s joyful, chatty, and not very proper… and she’s sunshine that pierces his gloominess. These two are such a perfect balance.
The helpful advices with each chapter and lot of the scenes had me laughing out loud. This was truly a delightful book. I give Meg Frampton a round of applause for this one. Loved it!!
My Star rating: 4 stars
Book was great. Loved the characters. Storyline kept me entertained... but did not make me cry.
Tropes : Virgin Hero, Working Class Girl, Working Earl, Wrong Bed, and Valentine’s Day.
This was such an adorable story. Sexy read… straight up romance… no conflict between the couple. Loved it!!
Matthew may be an Earl, but he doesn’t like being idle. He runs a business and doesn’t have time for frivolous things… until he meets Annabelle. She’s joyful, chatty, and not very proper… and she’s sunshine that pierces his gloominess. These two are such a perfect balance.
The helpful advices with each chapter and lot of the scenes had me laughing out loud. This was truly a delightful book. I give Meg Frampton a round of applause for this one. Loved it!!
My Star rating: 4 stars
Book was great. Loved the characters. Storyline kept me entertained... but did not make me cry.
February 15, 2018
When the author gives you a virgin hero, you know you have to read it. How often does that happen? The only other virginal hero I’ve ever read about was James Fraser from Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander, so I hoped that the story would be as good as the trope is. And guess what? It was, in one word, delicious!
Both characters were well written and three-dimensional, and very interesting and a lot of fun. I also liked the pace of the story. It moved at a fast pace and the dialogue was to die for.
This was a perfect example of how the opposite personalities can be attracted to each other. Highly recommending!
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
Both characters were well written and three-dimensional, and very interesting and a lot of fun. I also liked the pace of the story. It moved at a fast pace and the dialogue was to die for.
This was a perfect example of how the opposite personalities can be attracted to each other. Highly recommending!
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
December 22, 2018
This novella fell a little short for me. While I loved the narration and the allusions to Amelia Bedelia through Annabelle, her relationship with Matthew just didn't seem to flow quite right. I couldn't feel their connection as deeply as I'd have liked to. Maybe if this were a full novel and there were more pressing conflicts, it would feel more fleshed out. As it is, it's plenty fluffy if that's what you want - which is fine. I just wanted a little more.
August 22, 2020
I enjoyed this novel. Annabella Fisty, independent & outspoken. Just what this workaholic Lord Matthew needed to create a future & life. The romance was not bad either. Started with a simmer & boiled over! Once the characters realized they cared about each other. I love Happily Ever After Love story!
Wonder what some of the other "Duke behaving badly" novels are like? Will need to find out!
Thanks, Megan for the Fun escape!
Wonder what some of the other "Duke behaving badly" novels are like? Will need to find out!
Thanks, Megan for the Fun escape!
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