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A Dazzling Stranger in the Earl's Arm
Theodosia Hay's life seems to be unfolding in every way she had expected it to, until one fateful day she is forced to marry an Earl she barely knows, or be faced with social ostracization. What follows are moments that challenge Thea in every way possible; not only must she survive the humiliation of the whirlwind process of planning a ceremony that even the dourest bride would be embarrassed by, but also find her place in the vast, intimidating Seaforth house with a man she barely knows. Will this be the beginning of a lustful journey or will she be entrapped in a loveless marriage?
Philip Bennington, the dazzling Earl of Seaforth, has vowed to never risk his heart in a love match. But his life is about to change forever when he sees an attractive young Lady falling off her horse and he runs to her rescue. To their misfortune, they are discovered in what mistakenly seems to be a compromising situation, and he soon finds himself trapped in an accidental marriage. As they embark on their tumultuous relationship together, he finds himself losing his heart to her, unsuitable match or not. However, when his family and the whole of society refuses to accept their passionate affair, will he ever manage to prove them wrong and turn this forced marriage into a burning love?
Just when Thea and Philip think they've reached a peaceful point in their flaming relationship, she finds mysterious notes addressed to Philip. Before they realise it, they embark on a path to discovering who is trying to shove a wedge between the newly married couple. Will they be able to discover who is trying to ruin their unexpected affair, or will all of their hard work be ruined by a malicious outsider? In the end, will they break all the barriers that wish to keep them apart and create their own happily ever after?
"A Dazzling Stranger in the Earl's Arms" is a historical romance novel of approximately 80,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Philip Bennington, the dazzling Earl of Seaforth, has vowed to never risk his heart in a love match. But his life is about to change forever when he sees an attractive young Lady falling off her horse and he runs to her rescue. To their misfortune, they are discovered in what mistakenly seems to be a compromising situation, and he soon finds himself trapped in an accidental marriage. As they embark on their tumultuous relationship together, he finds himself losing his heart to her, unsuitable match or not. However, when his family and the whole of society refuses to accept their passionate affair, will he ever manage to prove them wrong and turn this forced marriage into a burning love?
Just when Thea and Philip think they've reached a peaceful point in their flaming relationship, she finds mysterious notes addressed to Philip. Before they realise it, they embark on a path to discovering who is trying to shove a wedge between the newly married couple. Will they be able to discover who is trying to ruin their unexpected affair, or will all of their hard work be ruined by a malicious outsider? In the end, will they break all the barriers that wish to keep them apart and create their own happily ever after?
"A Dazzling Stranger in the Earl's Arms" is a historical romance novel of approximately 80,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2020
740 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Emily Honeyfield
108 books42 followersEmily Honeyfield was born in Chicago, but once she left for studies in London, she fell in love with the city and decided to stay. The vibrant city where she currently lives with her husband continues to inspire her to this day.
As a travel writer and journalist, she has written for many newspapers around the world but writing Romance stories was always her true passion. While she was freelancing, she finally found the time to put her inspiration to a test and write her debut novel. The rest of her writing journey is still left… unwritten!
When she’s not writing, Emily enjoys travelling with her husband, doing yoga and reading food blogs.
Emily loves connecting with her readers!
As a travel writer and journalist, she has written for many newspapers around the world but writing Romance stories was always her true passion. While she was freelancing, she finally found the time to put her inspiration to a test and write her debut novel. The rest of her writing journey is still left… unwritten!
When she’s not writing, Emily enjoys travelling with her husband, doing yoga and reading food blogs.
Emily loves connecting with her readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 17, 2022
Well, this was very goofy, cheesy and lovely story. What I liked most here was the fact that the story followed society rules. I simply can't understand some stories where the heroine is able to do soooo much without being compromised or without consequences, but back on track, I thought the rules were quite well used and we had ups and downs with the heroine's behavior which also went along well with her age and knowledge of the world. Being mature in one point, being childish in another but realizing how she was acting and rectifying it.
Another thing that stood out here was the fact that the heroine was the instigator in their sexual relationship and not the hero, as he was a rather quiet and shy character. She was the one seducing him and doing things that we should all just pretend a virgin would know how to (or even existed) back then.
Another nice factor was that they had normal problems, no mystery, no people trying to kill them, just regular problems. That was a relief!
But one thing that bothered me quite a lot was the fact that the heroine is presented as the young of the sisters and at some point the author said things that contradicted that. I was so confused that I went back to make sure I had read it right in the beginning as dates and ages are something that I pay close attention to, and yes, the author said two different things. So, maybe this won’t bother you, but I know I am picky with that kind of thing.
This was not a wow book but it was entertaining and sweet and low key, which I needed on a tired day that I just am happy to give it a good rating.
PS: there's an extended epilogue on her website that happened 6 months after the actual epilogue. Yay.
Another thing that stood out here was the fact that the heroine was the instigator in their sexual relationship and not the hero, as he was a rather quiet and shy character. She was the one seducing him and doing things that we should all just pretend a virgin would know how to (or even existed) back then.
Another nice factor was that they had normal problems, no mystery, no people trying to kill them, just regular problems. That was a relief!
But one thing that bothered me quite a lot was the fact that the heroine is presented as the young of the sisters and at some point the author said things that contradicted that. I was so confused that I went back to make sure I had read it right in the beginning as dates and ages are something that I pay close attention to, and yes, the author said two different things. So, maybe this won’t bother you, but I know I am picky with that kind of thing.
This was not a wow book but it was entertaining and sweet and low key, which I needed on a tired day that I just am happy to give it a good rating.
PS: there's an extended epilogue on her website that happened 6 months after the actual epilogue. Yay.
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May 15, 2022DNF@20%
I just couldn't get into it. The writing style was all over the place. I can't really say what's wrong with it as I have read shockingly little of this story in one month.
I just couldn't get into it. The writing style was all over the place. I can't really say what's wrong with it as I have read shockingly little of this story in one month.
July 24, 2020
Perfectly charming and heartwarming characters. Interesting plot that kept me thoroughly engaged throughout. Enjoyed every minute of it!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
April 20, 2025
This is a feel good historical novel that touched a lot of aspects in relationships. The author has lots of potential. 'Though I have certain issues re certain details that I wouldn't have taken notice, if one of them isn't an important factor in the story, which maybe the author seemed to have forgotten to consider. Like for instance, the age difference between Mia and Thea. In the beginning of the book, Mia is described as twenty-two and Thea is twenty-one.. then later on, while they were talking in Thea's room re the forced predicament Thea is in, Mia said she's already twenty-three and have little prospects to none.. most importantly, which is a very important issue for me, since this resolves Thea's problem with regard to her mother's nasty behavior. This is when Thea's mother explains the time of her marriage to Thea's father to the time of Thea's conception. So where does Mia factor in their mother's explanation?. I don't understand this.. Mia is supposed to be the elder sister.
"What day were you born on, my darling?”
Thea furrowed her brow. “September twenty-third ... What does that have to do with"–
“And what day were your father and I married?” Lady Highfields pressed on...
I don't like to go into so much details as I might give away a lot of spoilers. Another small detail, since this is a minor character, Edward Woodward, the brother of Lady Jane, is introduced in the book, as a Lord during a post wedding dinner. I'm assuming he has a title?.. and their father died. So even if it's a lower rank, the title must have been passed on to him. Again I'm assuming he doesn't have an elder brother. So how come Thea introduced him to Mia, later in the book as just Edward, regardless if Thea is on a first name basis with Edward as a friend.. for formality's sake or etiquette, since Mia is of no acquaintance.. and later on, after they were introduced and got to talk for a while, before leaving, Mia just addressed Edward as Mr.Woodward. Well unless of course in a matter of one meeting, Edward requested this, which seems to be a pattern in this book. It isn't mentioned in the book though, if Mia is even aware that he's a lord, since he is just being introduced to her by Thea as Edward. Tthis could be so, if he's a younger son of a viscount or baron.. but again he's introduced as a lord. Obviously he's not a commoner.
Oh well, maybe I've just been reading a lot of historical info and novels, so I expect some degree of authenticity and consistency in details.
"What day were you born on, my darling?”
Thea furrowed her brow. “September twenty-third ... What does that have to do with"–
“And what day were your father and I married?” Lady Highfields pressed on...
I don't like to go into so much details as I might give away a lot of spoilers. Another small detail, since this is a minor character, Edward Woodward, the brother of Lady Jane, is introduced in the book, as a Lord during a post wedding dinner. I'm assuming he has a title?.. and their father died. So even if it's a lower rank, the title must have been passed on to him. Again I'm assuming he doesn't have an elder brother. So how come Thea introduced him to Mia, later in the book as just Edward, regardless if Thea is on a first name basis with Edward as a friend.. for formality's sake or etiquette, since Mia is of no acquaintance.. and later on, after they were introduced and got to talk for a while, before leaving, Mia just addressed Edward as Mr.Woodward. Well unless of course in a matter of one meeting, Edward requested this, which seems to be a pattern in this book. It isn't mentioned in the book though, if Mia is even aware that he's a lord, since he is just being introduced to her by Thea as Edward. Tthis could be so, if he's a younger son of a viscount or baron.. but again he's introduced as a lord. Obviously he's not a commoner.
Oh well, maybe I've just been reading a lot of historical info and novels, so I expect some degree of authenticity and consistency in details.
July 19, 2020
💕💕ONE SPECTACULAR TREAT💕💕
Perfection! Emily hits the nail on the head with all the frills, spills, feels and fiascos, rocking this gem to and fro, laying out this delightful treat, melding this baby together seamlessly. Observant of the formidable trials and challenging tribulations, stumbling through the sharp twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Blurring boundaries and leaping lines, exposing the strengths and weaknesses being weighed and balanced, propelling this jewel on-ward without a hitch, knocking it into overdrive, blowing it into a tailspin with a life-changing realization. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, turmoil, intrigue, secrets, simmering threats and electrifying situations, along with a boatload of mysteries, you have one intoxicating experience. Wound, bound and tightly banded, exposing the soaring ups and agonizing downs, impressive in it's simplicity and awe inspiring in it's depth. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing thrilling emotions, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are complex and genuine with traits and qualities that add depth and realism, blend and flow transforming into relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Emily, thanks for sharing this lil' fella with us.
Perfection! Emily hits the nail on the head with all the frills, spills, feels and fiascos, rocking this gem to and fro, laying out this delightful treat, melding this baby together seamlessly. Observant of the formidable trials and challenging tribulations, stumbling through the sharp twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Blurring boundaries and leaping lines, exposing the strengths and weaknesses being weighed and balanced, propelling this jewel on-ward without a hitch, knocking it into overdrive, blowing it into a tailspin with a life-changing realization. Shenanigans, escapades and mayhem rule the roost displaying the drama, turmoil, intrigue, secrets, simmering threats and electrifying situations, along with a boatload of mysteries, you have one intoxicating experience. Wound, bound and tightly banded, exposing the soaring ups and agonizing downs, impressive in it's simplicity and awe inspiring in it's depth. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing thrilling emotions, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters are complex and genuine with traits and qualities that add depth and realism, blend and flow transforming into relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Emily, thanks for sharing this lil' fella with us.
January 7, 2021
NEWLY MARRIED GROWNUPS
This was an entertaining novel where the two lead characters acted like grown-ups. Both Thea and Philip were consistent in their behavior in the face of situations outside of their control. They talked out the problems without screaming scenes and recriminations. The other characters were well written, especially Thea's parents.
My problems within the story were twofold. At the beginning of the book Thea was supposedly the younger sister. Much later she was named as the older sister. The othuujer was me being picky. The tale supposedly happened about the time of Jane Austin but Philip comes across as a 21st century guy trying to be politically correct after a class about having intimate relations with women. It would have been nice if men were taught this centuries ago but it just did not ring true.
This was an entertaining novel where the two lead characters acted like grown-ups. Both Thea and Philip were consistent in their behavior in the face of situations outside of their control. They talked out the problems without screaming scenes and recriminations. The other characters were well written, especially Thea's parents.
My problems within the story were twofold. At the beginning of the book Thea was supposedly the younger sister. Much later she was named as the older sister. The othuujer was me being picky. The tale supposedly happened about the time of Jane Austin but Philip comes across as a 21st century guy trying to be politically correct after a class about having intimate relations with women. It would have been nice if men were taught this centuries ago but it just did not ring true.
July 21, 2020
Sweet funny story
This book is about making the best of the situation you find yourself in. When Theodosia is thrown off her horse and injured she never thought that her day would end with being forced into a marriage. Philip the Earl of Seaforth found her and decided to try and sneak Theodosia into his home without anyone seeing them in order to mend her injuries. Things did not go as planned and she Philip's family saw him with a disheveled Theodosia they demanded the two be married because the situation was a scandal. They married and over time we see the couple begin to develop real feelings for one another. They had to face some difficulties along the way but both where able to remain calm and positive through each obstacle that comes there way.
This book is about making the best of the situation you find yourself in. When Theodosia is thrown off her horse and injured she never thought that her day would end with being forced into a marriage. Philip the Earl of Seaforth found her and decided to try and sneak Theodosia into his home without anyone seeing them in order to mend her injuries. Things did not go as planned and she Philip's family saw him with a disheveled Theodosia they demanded the two be married because the situation was a scandal. They married and over time we see the couple begin to develop real feelings for one another. They had to face some difficulties along the way but both where able to remain calm and positive through each obstacle that comes there way.
August 15, 2020
With such a sexy looking book cover, expected great things from this story. It's sad, I find myself getting irritated with Thea and the others, all teary and nicy nice, blah, too much water. Hey, folks, this is one of those very sweet and gentle romance, a bit too tame for my taste, if you know what I mean. I was expecting more sizzle from the pot, just saying. Oh, and it’s a teary one, everybody cries in this one, and I don’t mean the tear-jerking kind of read, where you can't help but shed a few. No, I mean everybody in this story seems to have an issue with their eyes. The oomph I was expecting never materialized, my spicy expectations got washed down the drain, Oh well, you can’t get it all the time.
January 10, 2021
This book was a boring, hodgepoged, tragedy to get through. I finally took pity on myself and stopped when I read who was sending the notes. What a stupid mystery with a stupid, illogical, half cocked excuse. The whole book is like that. Save yourself. Despite the promising plot, this book went downhill in characters, dialogue, narration and continuity in storytelling, nit to mention historical accurateness. The historical inaccurateness was what got to me first, but I still plodded on until I decided to save myself. I won't be trying anything by Miss Honeyfield again, but hope she succeeds and improves in the future.
February 26, 2021
Nice
It was good one time read.....plot was great at starting.....forced to get married n all....how their journey started....but in second half toward end it lost its charm..... like I don't liked her mother's behaviour n then jane thing......n I'm in confusing author 1st said that mia is elder daughter but when their mother told how she was forced to marry n all she said she had conceive thea before her marriage I this there is some error there....it was good but character lost their charm in between....could have been better....nothing less was it was ok..
It was good one time read.....plot was great at starting.....forced to get married n all....how their journey started....but in second half toward end it lost its charm..... like I don't liked her mother's behaviour n then jane thing......n I'm in confusing author 1st said that mia is elder daughter but when their mother told how she was forced to marry n all she said she had conceive thea before her marriage I this there is some error there....it was good but character lost their charm in between....could have been better....nothing less was it was ok..
July 18, 2020
This is another gripping story from Ms Honeyfield
This is yet another gripping story from Ms Honeyfield, that has a plot that keeps on giving. The characters are portrayed beautifully, and there are some delightful surprises along the way. The extended epilogue completes the main characters story's wonderfully. This is a book that would suit anyone who loves steamy historical romances that have plenty of twists and turns. I read an ARC copy.
This is yet another gripping story from Ms Honeyfield, that has a plot that keeps on giving. The characters are portrayed beautifully, and there are some delightful surprises along the way. The extended epilogue completes the main characters story's wonderfully. This is a book that would suit anyone who loves steamy historical romances that have plenty of twists and turns. I read an ARC copy.
July 25, 2020
Phillip PhillipsA Dazzling Stranger in the Earl's Arms A Historical Regency Romance Book
This is a very good story about love and family and friends and forgiveness.The met Phillip Bennnington the Earl God Seaforth and save reputations they married but someone else was trying to keep them apart and the culprit when caught and forgiven vowed to change.The characters are charming and emotional and a wonderful extended epilogue.A well written enjoyable story
This is a very good story about love and family and friends and forgiveness.The met Phillip Bennnington the Earl God Seaforth and save reputations they married but someone else was trying to keep them apart and the culprit when caught and forgiven vowed to change.The characters are charming and emotional and a wonderful extended epilogue.A well written enjoyable story
July 25, 2020
What an unexpected marriage can lead to.
Thea and Philip are pushed into an unexpected marriage just because Philip went to help Thea when she fell from her horse. Now to be married to someone you do not know is bad but to also face some serious challenges makes this book a page-turner. The storyline was excellent and the characters were wonderful. I enjoyed myself every minute I spent with this gem. I highly recommend it.
Thea and Philip are pushed into an unexpected marriage just because Philip went to help Thea when she fell from her horse. Now to be married to someone you do not know is bad but to also face some serious challenges makes this book a page-turner. The storyline was excellent and the characters were wonderful. I enjoyed myself every minute I spent with this gem. I highly recommend it.
August 1, 2020
This book has it all!
Emily Honeyfield created beautifully complex characters who are faced with scandal simply because of kindness. Although the couple fights to overcome the challenges before them, there is a surprising evil that works to destroy their growing love. I absolutely love the humanity and depth that Ms. Honeyfield infused into her characters. They come to life and stay with you after the story is finished.
Emily Honeyfield created beautifully complex characters who are faced with scandal simply because of kindness. Although the couple fights to overcome the challenges before them, there is a surprising evil that works to destroy their growing love. I absolutely love the humanity and depth that Ms. Honeyfield infused into her characters. They come to life and stay with you after the story is finished.
July 19, 2020
Troubles everywhere
Wasn’t surprised by the required marriage between Thea Nd Phillip as her being thrown from a horse in the stream and more, being seen in his arms, is all it takes. But the reaction of her mother and all the complications that follow would make anyone’s head spin! Very twisted but delightful.
Wasn’t surprised by the required marriage between Thea Nd Phillip as her being thrown from a horse in the stream and more, being seen in his arms, is all it takes. But the reaction of her mother and all the complications that follow would make anyone’s head spin! Very twisted but delightful.
July 20, 2020
Dazzling Stranger in the Earls arms
Another great story.From falling off a horse to marriage .And a thrilling mystery involving someone trying to cause mischief to the happy couple.Never saw that coming.And the extended Epilogue too.Well worth the wait and hope all who read Emily Honeyfields story’s enjoys them like I do.
Another great story.From falling off a horse to marriage .And a thrilling mystery involving someone trying to cause mischief to the happy couple.Never saw that coming.And the extended Epilogue too.Well worth the wait and hope all who read Emily Honeyfields story’s enjoys them like I do.
July 29, 2020
Nice read
It started out as a horse ride with family but turned into a chance meeting. To have a forced marriage because of an accident turned in a match made in heaven. To find out why her mother was so against the marriage and have the true come out. It saved her mother and father marriage and her sister found love also .
It started out as a horse ride with family but turned into a chance meeting. To have a forced marriage because of an accident turned in a match made in heaven. To find out why her mother was so against the marriage and have the true come out. It saved her mother and father marriage and her sister found love also .
November 5, 2020
A Dazzling Stranger in the Earl's Arms
I am very fond of Regency period romances. I truly enjoyed this book. It was full of witty humor and the romantic scenes were tender and passionate and caring. I loved seeing everyone find happily ever after endings. I will read more by this writer.
I am very fond of Regency period romances. I truly enjoyed this book. It was full of witty humor and the romantic scenes were tender and passionate and caring. I loved seeing everyone find happily ever after endings. I will read more by this writer.
December 27, 2021
This story is a little bit whimsy, and these two never meet each other til the wedding. As they work through their marriage, they learn to love each other, Of course, there is a third party that interferes with their marriage, makes for a little bit of suspense. This is fun story and the writing is creative.
April 28, 2022
Can this really work out?
Thea & Philip met in a strange way and because of the situation they had to get married. But both of them try to get out of it but the parents won't hear of it. Can they really find a way to get through this? Will they find common ground and make the marriage work?
A lovely read
Thea & Philip met in a strange way and because of the situation they had to get married. But both of them try to get out of it but the parents won't hear of it. Can they really find a way to get through this? Will they find common ground and make the marriage work?
A lovely read
August 31, 2020
Edward and Theas beginning was scandalous but it was 💘
I enjoyed this slower paced book. It took time to get to know the character s . They are really interesting. . It makes the twists and turns really believable
I enjoyed this slower paced book. It took time to get to know the character s . They are really interesting. . It makes the twists and turns really believable
April 11, 2021
Truly enjoyable read.
Delightful love story showing the perseverance of kind people through less than great situations. Would like to have seen the supporting cast given their books I would love to read more about Jane and Miles.
Delightful love story showing the perseverance of kind people through less than great situations. Would like to have seen the supporting cast given their books I would love to read more about Jane and Miles.
July 23, 2020
Another hit by Emily Honeyfield. Lovely characters, and really worth the couple of hours to read.
July 27, 2020
Good read
Has brave, intelligent hero and heroine. Thea's mother is a real B until the end. But wait, there is no end! Another extended ending. Sneaky tactic to get your email.
Has brave, intelligent hero and heroine. Thea's mother is a real B until the end. But wait, there is no end! Another extended ending. Sneaky tactic to get your email.
August 4, 2020
Romance
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novels series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novels series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
August 5, 2020
Reputation
Very enjoyable worthwhile story. That is really a thing of the past compared to nowadays. Very kind deed that ended well in a marriage.
Very enjoyable worthwhile story. That is really a thing of the past compared to nowadays. Very kind deed that ended well in a marriage.
August 6, 2020
This was a fun read ,I reallly liked the characters and the story line was very intriguing!
Would like to hear more of these characters!
Would like to hear more of these characters!
September 6, 2020
Wonderful love story
I enjoyed this book but it took me a couple days to read it. I love the way they made their marriage work with love.
I enjoyed this book but it took me a couple days to read it. I love the way they made their marriage work with love.
September 21, 2020
Odd format looked like poetry but story had no romance.
January 19, 2021
Not the usual interest.
This tale was boring. I expected much more from this author. I hope the next read will make up for this one.
This tale was boring. I expected much more from this author. I hope the next read will make up for this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews