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Southern Belles in London #3
Falling for His Pretend Countess
A Victorian romance full of mystery and excitement
An intriguing encounter…
with the lady next door
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, was London’s most eligible bachelor. Only now someone is trying to frame him for murder! He finds an unexpected ally in his enchanting neighbor, Suzanne, who, after fleeing the American Civil War, also finds herself on the fringes of society. She agrees to help prove his innocence, and a fake engagement provides the perfect cover. Until his real feelings threaten their charade…
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Southern Belles in London
Book 1: The Making of His Marchioness
Book 2: Falling for His Pretend Countess
An intriguing encounter…
with the lady next door
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, was London’s most eligible bachelor. Only now someone is trying to frame him for murder! He finds an unexpected ally in his enchanting neighbor, Suzanne, who, after fleeing the American Civil War, also finds herself on the fringes of society. She agrees to help prove his innocence, and a fake engagement provides the perfect cover. Until his real feelings threaten their charade…
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Southern Belles in London
Book 1: The Making of His Marchioness
Book 2: Falling for His Pretend Countess
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2023
1 person is currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Lauri Robinson
174 books126 followersLauri Robinson's chosen genre to write is Western historical, and when asked why, she says, "Because I know I wasn't the only girl who wanted to grow up and marry Little Joe Cartwright."
With a degree in early childhood education, Lauri has spent three decades working in the non-profit field for Head Start, Child Abuse Intervention, the March of Dimes, and United Way. She claims the once upon a time and happily ever after premise of romance novels has always been a form of stress relief. When her husband suggested she write one, she took the challenge and has loved every minute of the journey.
Lauri lives in rural Minnesota, where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and their families, which includes three granddaughters, two stepgrandsons and two granddogs. She volunteers for several organizations, including her local library, and spends most fall weekends filling the freezer with homemade foodstuffs from the bountiful harvest of her husband's green thumb. She's a diehard Elvis fan (yes, she's been to Graceland), and loves to spend Sundays watching NASCAR, either live or on TV. However, she says her favorite weekends are spent in the woods of northern Minnesota on the land homesteaded by her great-grandfather.
Most of her childhood was spent in western Kansas, which is the setting for several of her stories. Lauri is a member of RWA, Northern Lights Writers,and Hearts Through History Romance Writers, as well as several online writing groups. She writes for Harlequin, Mills and Boon and The Wild Rose Press.
For updates on her writing please visit www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com
With a degree in early childhood education, Lauri has spent three decades working in the non-profit field for Head Start, Child Abuse Intervention, the March of Dimes, and United Way. She claims the once upon a time and happily ever after premise of romance novels has always been a form of stress relief. When her husband suggested she write one, she took the challenge and has loved every minute of the journey.
Lauri lives in rural Minnesota, where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and their families, which includes three granddaughters, two stepgrandsons and two granddogs. She volunteers for several organizations, including her local library, and spends most fall weekends filling the freezer with homemade foodstuffs from the bountiful harvest of her husband's green thumb. She's a diehard Elvis fan (yes, she's been to Graceland), and loves to spend Sundays watching NASCAR, either live or on TV. However, she says her favorite weekends are spent in the woods of northern Minnesota on the land homesteaded by her great-grandfather.
Most of her childhood was spent in western Kansas, which is the setting for several of her stories. Lauri is a member of RWA, Northern Lights Writers,and Hearts Through History Romance Writers, as well as several online writing groups. She writes for Harlequin, Mills and Boon and The Wild Rose Press.
For updates on her writing please visit www.laurirobinson.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 10, 2023
Terrific conclusion to the series. I've loved these books about three Southern American women who escaped the Civil War privations by going to England. Suzanne's friends found love and are now happily married. Suzanne has no such aspirations. All she wants is to find a publisher for the book she wrote about her experiences during the war and earn enough money to support herself. While living in the London townhome of her friend, Suzanne learns that her next-door neighbor, Henry, Earl of Beaufort, owns a publishing house. Her attempt to get the editor to read her manuscript goes nowhere, so she plans to ask Henry to intervene.
Henry is one of London's most eligible bachelors, but that may not last long. Someone is trying to frame him for murder, and his reputation is on the line. He has taken to sneaking out of various Society functions to investigate on his own before returning to pretend he's been there all along. However, he isn't making any progress, and his absences are being noticed.
I enjoyed the first meeting between Suzanne and Henry. She has little regard for her reputation and follows Henry into a garden to present him with her request for help. Instead, they are caught by one of the ton's worst gossips. I liked Henry's need to protect Suzanne and her desire to help him. After some thought and a few unexpected twists, they agree to fake an engagement to cover their partnership - she'll help with his investigation, and he will ensure that the editor reads her story.
Neither one expects the feelings that stir between them. Henry resists the idea of love and marriage, influenced by his father's infidelity. But he can't deny his fascination with Suzanne, her bravery, outlook on life, and how she charms him with everything she says. Suzanne feels Henry is too far above her for that dream to come true. She is an American with no dowry and a questionable pedigree. She also has trust issues with men because of the aunt who raised her. But the more time they spend together, the closer they become and the deeper their feelings grow. Some terrific scenes between Henry and Suzanne show how right they are for each other. But in the end, can Henry convince Suzanne that she belongs in his life, and can Suzanne overcome the insecurities holding her back?
I also enjoyed the mystery of the murders and who has it in for Henry. The first death was that of his illegitimate half-sister, whom he was hoping to help. Before he could do so, she was murdered, and an incriminating piece of evidence was found near her body. Two more young women are also killed, and Scotland Yard begins to close in on him. An unexpected twist sent his investigation in a different direction. While I wasn't surprised by who was behind it, some details surprised me. The final confrontation was intense, and I loved Suzanne's part.
I liked the secondary characters. Suzanne's friends (the heroines of the first two books) were steadfast in their support of her and determined to find a way to keep her in England. I also liked their husbands and their friendship with Henry. Seeing them talk about their American wives and how they never expected to be so thoroughly besotted was amusing. I loved Henry's sisters and how they took to Suzanne right away. It took me a little longer to like his mother, but in the end, she was terrific.
Henry is one of London's most eligible bachelors, but that may not last long. Someone is trying to frame him for murder, and his reputation is on the line. He has taken to sneaking out of various Society functions to investigate on his own before returning to pretend he's been there all along. However, he isn't making any progress, and his absences are being noticed.
I enjoyed the first meeting between Suzanne and Henry. She has little regard for her reputation and follows Henry into a garden to present him with her request for help. Instead, they are caught by one of the ton's worst gossips. I liked Henry's need to protect Suzanne and her desire to help him. After some thought and a few unexpected twists, they agree to fake an engagement to cover their partnership - she'll help with his investigation, and he will ensure that the editor reads her story.
Neither one expects the feelings that stir between them. Henry resists the idea of love and marriage, influenced by his father's infidelity. But he can't deny his fascination with Suzanne, her bravery, outlook on life, and how she charms him with everything she says. Suzanne feels Henry is too far above her for that dream to come true. She is an American with no dowry and a questionable pedigree. She also has trust issues with men because of the aunt who raised her. But the more time they spend together, the closer they become and the deeper their feelings grow. Some terrific scenes between Henry and Suzanne show how right they are for each other. But in the end, can Henry convince Suzanne that she belongs in his life, and can Suzanne overcome the insecurities holding her back?
I also enjoyed the mystery of the murders and who has it in for Henry. The first death was that of his illegitimate half-sister, whom he was hoping to help. Before he could do so, she was murdered, and an incriminating piece of evidence was found near her body. Two more young women are also killed, and Scotland Yard begins to close in on him. An unexpected twist sent his investigation in a different direction. While I wasn't surprised by who was behind it, some details surprised me. The final confrontation was intense, and I loved Suzanne's part.
I liked the secondary characters. Suzanne's friends (the heroines of the first two books) were steadfast in their support of her and determined to find a way to keep her in England. I also liked their husbands and their friendship with Henry. Seeing them talk about their American wives and how they never expected to be so thoroughly besotted was amusing. I loved Henry's sisters and how they took to Suzanne right away. It took me a little longer to like his mother, but in the end, she was terrific.
April 16, 2023
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
I’ve enjoyed the Southern Belles in London series, and it appears that Suzanne’s story in Falling for His Pretend Countess brings us to the conclusion… maybe, I’ve learned to never say never where series are concerned, but this does appear to be the final story.
Suzanne has a plan for her financial future while in London, waiting for the war to end back home in Virginia. She’s written a novel and has tried to present it to the best publishing house in London, only to be turned away without anyone even reading one line of it. So, she’s going to the source, the owner of the publishing house who just happens to be the next-door neighbor of the home where she is staying. It might be said that she’s tracking Henry, but when they meet at the same ball it seems fate has smiled upon her… perhaps.
Henry is trying to make his escape from this particular ball for a very specific reason; he needs to get to another district in the area, one with a dangerous and shady reputation. There have been three murdered women in this district, and it’s looking very suspiciously like he is involved. He’s out to prove his innocence, catch the real killer, and avenge his sister’s death. But he cannot do any of that if he cannot get away from this ball or the lovely neighbor who is determined to speak to him no matter the cost to her reputation.
Falling for His Pretend Countess is a delightful romance full of mysteries, and frustrations for both Henry and Suzanne. I had my suspect picked out rather early, and it was a joy to watch them be taken down through both Henry’s and Suzanne’s efforts. I loved watching this pretend relationship blossom into something far more for each of them as they follow the clues to a killer and fall in love along the way. I had fun here, and that’s the entire point. If you love a well-written, engaging, emotional romance then you’ll enjoy this one.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
I’ve enjoyed the Southern Belles in London series, and it appears that Suzanne’s story in Falling for His Pretend Countess brings us to the conclusion… maybe, I’ve learned to never say never where series are concerned, but this does appear to be the final story.
Suzanne has a plan for her financial future while in London, waiting for the war to end back home in Virginia. She’s written a novel and has tried to present it to the best publishing house in London, only to be turned away without anyone even reading one line of it. So, she’s going to the source, the owner of the publishing house who just happens to be the next-door neighbor of the home where she is staying. It might be said that she’s tracking Henry, but when they meet at the same ball it seems fate has smiled upon her… perhaps.
Henry is trying to make his escape from this particular ball for a very specific reason; he needs to get to another district in the area, one with a dangerous and shady reputation. There have been three murdered women in this district, and it’s looking very suspiciously like he is involved. He’s out to prove his innocence, catch the real killer, and avenge his sister’s death. But he cannot do any of that if he cannot get away from this ball or the lovely neighbor who is determined to speak to him no matter the cost to her reputation.
Falling for His Pretend Countess is a delightful romance full of mysteries, and frustrations for both Henry and Suzanne. I had my suspect picked out rather early, and it was a joy to watch them be taken down through both Henry’s and Suzanne’s efforts. I loved watching this pretend relationship blossom into something far more for each of them as they follow the clues to a killer and fall in love along the way. I had fun here, and that’s the entire point. If you love a well-written, engaging, emotional romance then you’ll enjoy this one.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
April 24, 2023
Suzanne Bishop escaped war-torn America for England, with her two friends, Annabelle and Clara. Annabelle and Clara have married. Although Suzanne is happy for her friends, she has no intention of marrying; but she does suggest to Henry, the Earl of Beaufort that she can help him. He's being accused of murdering his female relative as well as two other women in London. His father's cuff links have been found at the murder scenes. While Henry attempts to clear his name of the murders, Suzanne is also busy attempting to get her book published, one she wrote about her experiences during the Civil War in Virginia - and also suggests that she can be Henry's pretend fiance' to give him alibis in case any more London ladies get murdered.
Henry, the Earl of Beaufort has had his share of troubles after his father died of a stroke and he took over the running of the Beaufort estates and holdings. He is taking care of his mother, his two sisters and a bevy of servants, along with his aunt and cousin, two people he doesn't like too much. While Henry has done a splendid job of taking care of everyone, when he meets Suzanne, he can't help but want a future for himself that includes marrying the daughter of a 'flower in the garden' from America, because she is everything he's ever wanted in a wife. Suzanne has no idea who her father was, nor does she remember her mother that well, having lost her mother at the age of seven and being sent off to live with her Aunt Adelle. While she would like very much to find out about her past, she starts feeling very content being in England with Henry and her two friends.
While this fake engagement is going on, Henry and Suzanne try to pretend like their embraces are not real. However, they both soon come to realize that there is more to pretending than they first believed.
I really liked both of these characters. Suzanne had a very warm and caring personality and so did Henry. I would have liked to find out more about Suzanne's past back home in America, but it wasn't to be. Drats! This was a lovely and enjoyable read with intrigue, and a budding romance that was very tastefully written.
Henry, the Earl of Beaufort has had his share of troubles after his father died of a stroke and he took over the running of the Beaufort estates and holdings. He is taking care of his mother, his two sisters and a bevy of servants, along with his aunt and cousin, two people he doesn't like too much. While Henry has done a splendid job of taking care of everyone, when he meets Suzanne, he can't help but want a future for himself that includes marrying the daughter of a 'flower in the garden' from America, because she is everything he's ever wanted in a wife. Suzanne has no idea who her father was, nor does she remember her mother that well, having lost her mother at the age of seven and being sent off to live with her Aunt Adelle. While she would like very much to find out about her past, she starts feeling very content being in England with Henry and her two friends.
While this fake engagement is going on, Henry and Suzanne try to pretend like their embraces are not real. However, they both soon come to realize that there is more to pretending than they first believed.
I really liked both of these characters. Suzanne had a very warm and caring personality and so did Henry. I would have liked to find out more about Suzanne's past back home in America, but it wasn't to be. Drats! This was a lovely and enjoyable read with intrigue, and a budding romance that was very tastefully written.
May 11, 2023
Do I Expect Too Much?
The first romance books I read when I was a teenager were Harlequins. Back in the day, the publisher just had one or two lines within the brand, and I actually remember when the Historical and Romantic Suspense lines came out. Definitely, reading Harlequin romances, and novels by Jane Austen, formed my idea of what romance novels should be. So sometimes I find myself disappointed in what Harlequin romances are today. I did find this book somewhat disappointing, especially at the beginning. I thought the introductory chapters were too much of an info dump, which I never like to see and certainly should not exist in books put out by a mainstream publisher. I stuck with the book and did like the hero and heroine. I liked how a bit of suspense was woven throughout and that their fake relationship was actually based on how they could mutually help each other. They had some good banter and interaction. Aside from the info dump annoyance, I also disliked the choppy writing. I like reasonable, well-formed sentences and paragraphs. Many of these sentences were short, and there were even just phrases. Sometimes a paragraph was just one sentence or phrase. For me, that makes for a choppy reading experience and certainly detracts from the enjoyment. I think short sentences and phrases and brief paragraphs do not belong in historical romance. Historical romance language should be a bit more formal and elevated while still being easy to read. I wasn't wild about the cover, either, as the hero appears way too old. While this book was not inherently bad, I frankly do expect more from a publisher like Harlequin.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
The first romance books I read when I was a teenager were Harlequins. Back in the day, the publisher just had one or two lines within the brand, and I actually remember when the Historical and Romantic Suspense lines came out. Definitely, reading Harlequin romances, and novels by Jane Austen, formed my idea of what romance novels should be. So sometimes I find myself disappointed in what Harlequin romances are today. I did find this book somewhat disappointing, especially at the beginning. I thought the introductory chapters were too much of an info dump, which I never like to see and certainly should not exist in books put out by a mainstream publisher. I stuck with the book and did like the hero and heroine. I liked how a bit of suspense was woven throughout and that their fake relationship was actually based on how they could mutually help each other. They had some good banter and interaction. Aside from the info dump annoyance, I also disliked the choppy writing. I like reasonable, well-formed sentences and paragraphs. Many of these sentences were short, and there were even just phrases. Sometimes a paragraph was just one sentence or phrase. For me, that makes for a choppy reading experience and certainly detracts from the enjoyment. I think short sentences and phrases and brief paragraphs do not belong in historical romance. Historical romance language should be a bit more formal and elevated while still being easy to read. I wasn't wild about the cover, either, as the hero appears way too old. While this book was not inherently bad, I frankly do expect more from a publisher like Harlequin.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
September 22, 2023
Falling for his Pretend Countess is book three in Lauri Robinson's series, Southern Belles in London. I've not read the first two books, and honestly, when I had got this book I had been expecting a completely different title. Even though it is book three in the series, this reads fine as a standalone.
Regardless, I was instantly charmed and lost into the world of Suzanne, in London via the US, her homeland is currently ravaged by war (US Civil War). Because of her background, Suzanne is on the edges of polite society, although she is welcomed through her friendship with the two other southern belles of this series who have already married into the aristocracy. While she misses her home, things change as she gets to know her neighbour, Henry, the Earl of Beaufort.
While Henry and Suzanne embark on a fake relationship, there is also the the mystery that surrounds who is framing Henry for the murder of some young women, one of his was his half sister. The romance between Suzanne and Henry is a slow burn, as we learn about Henry and Suzanne's background in more detail. Both are strong and interesting characters. Henry to be the epitome of a sweet gentleman. On the other hand, while Suzanne is a strong and generally likable character, the countenance she presented to the world didn't seem to mesh with her past.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Regardless, I was instantly charmed and lost into the world of Suzanne, in London via the US, her homeland is currently ravaged by war (US Civil War). Because of her background, Suzanne is on the edges of polite society, although she is welcomed through her friendship with the two other southern belles of this series who have already married into the aristocracy. While she misses her home, things change as she gets to know her neighbour, Henry, the Earl of Beaufort.
While Henry and Suzanne embark on a fake relationship, there is also the the mystery that surrounds who is framing Henry for the murder of some young women, one of his was his half sister. The romance between Suzanne and Henry is a slow burn, as we learn about Henry and Suzanne's background in more detail. Both are strong and interesting characters. Henry to be the epitome of a sweet gentleman. On the other hand, while Suzanne is a strong and generally likable character, the countenance she presented to the world didn't seem to mesh with her past.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2023
We meet Suzanne, a southern belle from America who has escaped the war back home to London and is staying with friends She is hoping for an introduction to Henry, the Earl of Beaufort, her neighbour, who can assist her with an introduction to a publisher and have her novel published. While attending the same events, she notices that Henry disappears for some time at every event and decides to propose that they pretend to be engaged. This will allow Henry time to conduct his investigation and she would be his cover. The mystery surrounding the dead girls has Henry concerned as someone is trying to frame him for the murders - his half-sister being one of the victims!
Suzanne has a sunny personality - even though she has been through the horrors of war and is determined to see the bright side of everything. Henry is a little more jaded in his outlook, especially where the marriage mart is concerned, and this proposal of Suzanne's would work to both their favours.
They get along very well with Henry being quite enamoured with all things Suzanne. She is quite feisty and determined to lead an independent life back home in America once the war between the states is over. I liked the story, the characters, and the mystery / who-done-it thrown in for good measure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Suzanne has a sunny personality - even though she has been through the horrors of war and is determined to see the bright side of everything. Henry is a little more jaded in his outlook, especially where the marriage mart is concerned, and this proposal of Suzanne's would work to both their favours.
They get along very well with Henry being quite enamoured with all things Suzanne. She is quite feisty and determined to lead an independent life back home in America once the war between the states is over. I liked the story, the characters, and the mystery / who-done-it thrown in for good measure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 10, 2023
THE BLURB:
An intriguing encounter...with the lady next door
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, was London’s most eligible bachelor. Only now someone is trying to frame him for murder! He finds an unexpected ally in his enchanting neighbour, Suzanne, who, after fleeing the American Civil War, also finds herself on the fringes of society. She agrees to help prove his innocence and a fake engagement provides the perfect cover. Until his real feelings threaten their charade...
MY REVIEW:
I am so glad I discovered this author! I devour everything she writes, and I especially love this series. I had ever read any historical romance until I discovered this author, and she has converted me!
Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone book.
This story follows Henry and Suzanne. Henry intends to work undercover to discover who is framing him for a series of murders, and Suzanne, not wanting him to be caught, proposes that they pretend to be engaged as a cover story. In return for her help, she asks that he help her publish her book.
Of course, the lines between pretend and real get blurred, and being a Harlequin title there is a happy ending.
A fun read, finished in a single sitting. I can’t wait for the next title!
RATING:
4/5
Thank you to BookSprout for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
An intriguing encounter...with the lady next door
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, was London’s most eligible bachelor. Only now someone is trying to frame him for murder! He finds an unexpected ally in his enchanting neighbour, Suzanne, who, after fleeing the American Civil War, also finds herself on the fringes of society. She agrees to help prove his innocence and a fake engagement provides the perfect cover. Until his real feelings threaten their charade...
MY REVIEW:
I am so glad I discovered this author! I devour everything she writes, and I especially love this series. I had ever read any historical romance until I discovered this author, and she has converted me!
Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone book.
This story follows Henry and Suzanne. Henry intends to work undercover to discover who is framing him for a series of murders, and Suzanne, not wanting him to be caught, proposes that they pretend to be engaged as a cover story. In return for her help, she asks that he help her publish her book.
Of course, the lines between pretend and real get blurred, and being a Harlequin title there is a happy ending.
A fun read, finished in a single sitting. I can’t wait for the next title!
RATING:
4/5
Thank you to BookSprout for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
April 25, 2023
Having fled from an America in the throws of a civil war, Suzanne finds herself in the midst of a London Season. Her other two friends from Virginia have already happily married, one to a duke and the other to a marquess, but she is not looking for marriage. She wants her book published in order to generate an income by which she can live independantly. Henry, the Earl of Beaufort, resides in the townhouse next to where she is staying, and just happens to own a publishing house. However, it appears that Henry is being framed for murder and he is actively trying to clear his name. A deal is struck wherein they pretend to be engaged so that she can be his alibi and he promises to have his publisher read her book. Of course guilt rules the day when they inadvertantly fall in love with each other, and things get complicated. This story has danger, mystery, deception, lots of emotion, witty dialogue and a touch of steam. Suzanne and Henry are adorable together, and I can just imagine their conversations with a British accent and that of a southerner…..although a Virginian’s accent tends to be quite mild. Their playfulness is refreshing, and their loyalty and desire to protect each other runs true and deep. I found it easy to connect with this story and really enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2023
A wonderful story with a strong female role for Suzanne, the third American who came to England after the civil war broke out in America.
Looking for a way to support herself, she decides to offer her diary to a publishing house owned by Henry, her neighbor.
When she hears that people in the corridors are saying that he is a murderer, she doesn't believe it. At a ball she approaches him with a plan; she helps him with an alibi when he goes looking for the real murderer when he helps her by having her book read by an editor working in his publishing house.
The agreement stands, but when she defends Henry against one of the biggest gossipers in the Ton, Suzanne says that she is engaged to Henry and that he was with her at the time of the third murder, she sets something in motion. And she can't stop it anymore. They pretend to the outside world, but Suzanne cannot keep her heart out for long. Henry also has more at stake than just his reputation; his heart!
A well written story where love wins. A murderer is caught, even twice, and happiness will no longer leave Suzanne and Henry. Also nice to read that Drew and Annabelle and Roger and Clara are doing well. The stories of these 2 women were previously described in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Looking for a way to support herself, she decides to offer her diary to a publishing house owned by Henry, her neighbor.
When she hears that people in the corridors are saying that he is a murderer, she doesn't believe it. At a ball she approaches him with a plan; she helps him with an alibi when he goes looking for the real murderer when he helps her by having her book read by an editor working in his publishing house.
The agreement stands, but when she defends Henry against one of the biggest gossipers in the Ton, Suzanne says that she is engaged to Henry and that he was with her at the time of the third murder, she sets something in motion. And she can't stop it anymore. They pretend to the outside world, but Suzanne cannot keep her heart out for long. Henry also has more at stake than just his reputation; his heart!
A well written story where love wins. A murderer is caught, even twice, and happiness will no longer leave Suzanne and Henry. Also nice to read that Drew and Annabelle and Roger and Clara are doing well. The stories of these 2 women were previously described in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2023
Note: This is part of a series but works fine as a standalone.
The premise is solid, but the landing doesn't quite stick. Not as mystery-driven as I'd hoped; the culprit is super easy to guess. As a MFC, Suzanne is giggly and overly chatty at the beginning, not exactly the wary survivor I'd expected. Although she's tough and physical in a few key scenes, I didn't see her as a 22-year-old woman who'd fought against the odds to become a published writer. Henry, the MMC, is likable and charming, however, and his scenes with Suzanne are sweet.
There is some good world-building involving London society and the ballroom scene. At the same time, there are also anachronisms and a few slightly confusing turns of phrase.
Conflict-wise, I was hoping for a bit more of a fish-out-of-water storyline, but other than a memorably tense scene early on with a gossipy Duchess, everyone accepts Suzanne right away.
The romance is fairly slow-burn, with an open-door love scene toward the end.
Steam level: 2. Language is mild.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author and publisher for this opportunity.
The premise is solid, but the landing doesn't quite stick. Not as mystery-driven as I'd hoped; the culprit is super easy to guess. As a MFC, Suzanne is giggly and overly chatty at the beginning, not exactly the wary survivor I'd expected. Although she's tough and physical in a few key scenes, I didn't see her as a 22-year-old woman who'd fought against the odds to become a published writer. Henry, the MMC, is likable and charming, however, and his scenes with Suzanne are sweet.
There is some good world-building involving London society and the ballroom scene. At the same time, there are also anachronisms and a few slightly confusing turns of phrase.
Conflict-wise, I was hoping for a bit more of a fish-out-of-water storyline, but other than a memorably tense scene early on with a gossipy Duchess, everyone accepts Suzanne right away.
The romance is fairly slow-burn, with an open-door love scene toward the end.
Steam level: 2. Language is mild.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author and publisher for this opportunity.
April 25, 2023
Falling for His Pretend Countess is the third captivating installment in Lauri Robinson's fantastic Southern Belles series.
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, was society's most eligible bachelor. Women flocked to him and fell at his feet and every match-making mama in England wanted their daughter to become his wife- until Henry had found himself accused of murder! Now treated with suspicion, Henry has become a pariah in polite society, but he finds an unexpected ally in his next door neighbor Suzanne, who had come to England after fleeing from the American Civil War.
Desperate to clear his name and prove his innocence, Henry needs help and thinks that a fake engagement with Suzanne would provide the perfect cover. Only, Henry never counted on falling head over heels in love with his pretend countess...
Lauri Robinson's writing shines in Falling for His Pretend Countess. A superbly written Victorian romance spiced with atmosphere, passion, intrigue and suspense, Falling For His Pretend Countess is charming historical from Lauri Robinson that has winner written all over it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, was society's most eligible bachelor. Women flocked to him and fell at his feet and every match-making mama in England wanted their daughter to become his wife- until Henry had found himself accused of murder! Now treated with suspicion, Henry has become a pariah in polite society, but he finds an unexpected ally in his next door neighbor Suzanne, who had come to England after fleeing from the American Civil War.
Desperate to clear his name and prove his innocence, Henry needs help and thinks that a fake engagement with Suzanne would provide the perfect cover. Only, Henry never counted on falling head over heels in love with his pretend countess...
Lauri Robinson's writing shines in Falling for His Pretend Countess. A superbly written Victorian romance spiced with atmosphere, passion, intrigue and suspense, Falling For His Pretend Countess is charming historical from Lauri Robinson that has winner written all over it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2023
Henry and Suzanne's Story . . .
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, had been sought after by all the eligible ladies of London. Then someone tried to frame him for murder and his reputation is on the line. His neighbor, Suzanne Bishop, who had returned from the American Civil War, wanted to help Henry prove his innocence. She did have ulterior motives since he owned a publishing house which had refused to even read her book she had written. If she could get it published, it could allow her financial stability and independence.
So the two of them agreed to a “fake” engagement to give him more credibility and freedom to search for the real culprit. In return he would make sure the book she had written and wants to publish at least gets looked at by his publishing house. But neither of them considered finding real feelings in their fake relationship. Would they walk away once they had proved Henry innocent? Or would they take the next step in their relationship and make it real?
Henry, Earl of Beaufort, had been sought after by all the eligible ladies of London. Then someone tried to frame him for murder and his reputation is on the line. His neighbor, Suzanne Bishop, who had returned from the American Civil War, wanted to help Henry prove his innocence. She did have ulterior motives since he owned a publishing house which had refused to even read her book she had written. If she could get it published, it could allow her financial stability and independence.
So the two of them agreed to a “fake” engagement to give him more credibility and freedom to search for the real culprit. In return he would make sure the book she had written and wants to publish at least gets looked at by his publishing house. But neither of them considered finding real feelings in their fake relationship. Would they walk away once they had proved Henry innocent? Or would they take the next step in their relationship and make it real?
April 22, 2023
This charming story will please lovers of historical romance. The heroine is intelligent, charming, and independent. She’s also an American. The Hero is kind and very forward thinking. He’s also totally hot. He’s also an Earl. Their relationship builds while they are pretending to be a couple in order to give him time to solve a series of murders and to give her an opportunity to get her book published. Very sweet and entertaining.
Here’s the breakdown:
H/h- Henry and Suzanne
POV- 3rd person
Genre- Harlequin Historical Romance
Era- 1860s
Heat level- mostly euphemistic
Standalone? last book of miniseries
Cliffhanger? N
HEA? Y
Triggers- violence is mild and not graphic, no offensive language, love scene mostly euphemistic
Trope- Fake Relationship
Verdict- recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Here’s the breakdown:
H/h- Henry and Suzanne
POV- 3rd person
Genre- Harlequin Historical Romance
Era- 1860s
Heat level- mostly euphemistic
Standalone? last book of miniseries
Cliffhanger? N
HEA? Y
Triggers- violence is mild and not graphic, no offensive language, love scene mostly euphemistic
Trope- Fake Relationship
Verdict- recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2023
This was a very sweet and charming book, 'falling for his pretend countess' written by Laurie Robinson. This was my first book by this author but I must say I really enjoyed her story and writing style. The book is a real page turner and easy to read, I can not wait to read more of her books.
It all started as a pretend engagement to save respective purposes between Suzanne and Henry the earl of Beaufort until love decided to make things complicated in a good way for these two.
The characters were wonderful and kept me interested until the end of the book.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It all started as a pretend engagement to save respective purposes between Suzanne and Henry the earl of Beaufort until love decided to make things complicated in a good way for these two.
The characters were wonderful and kept me interested until the end of the book.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2023
WOW, what a keeper. So well written, definitely a page turner. Full of mystery, romance, love, drama, intrigue and action. From the start to the end this book will keep you reading and wanting more. Henry has someone trying to frame him for murder and Suzanne needs her novel to be published by his company. They team up in a fake engagement so they may work together to solve these murders. The fake engagement turns into a full blown romance and love. . Has great action and easy to follow this who done it. All characters are perfect for this book. Would recommend this book to all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2023
Suzanne wants her book published to support herself and Henry needs to figure out who is trying to frame him for murder. She offers him the idea of a fake engagement so she can be his alibi, but they didn’t count on the attraction or her being in the killer’s sights. I had a feeling early on and Henry shouldn’t have been so quick to reject talking about it with his mother. Suzanne was bold and quick on her feet but she had to be to survive. They are both stubborn which added to the suspense of whether or not they would admit their feelings before it was too late. But Suzanne’s cake sounds yummy.
April 4, 2023
Someone is trying to frame Henry for murder. Suzanne offers to help him prove his innocence in return for his help in getting her book published. She suggests they fake an engagement as a cover—but will a pretend relationship lead to love?
This action-packed book has a lot going on for a short novel. Yet the mystery never overshadows the love story. The characters are a delight (especially Suzanne). I've really enjoyed this series—I look forward to more from this author!
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This action-packed book has a lot going on for a short novel. Yet the mystery never overshadows the love story. The characters are a delight (especially Suzanne). I've really enjoyed this series—I look forward to more from this author!
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
April 4, 2023
The past will not stop the happiness of the future.
I enjoyed reading this book there is a bit of mystery mixed into the love story. The hero and heroine make a deal he is going to see that her book is at least read by his publishing company and she is going to help him find his sister’s killer because this snake wants him to take the fall for it. I did like the characters and how they worked together. This is one I have recommended to all my friends. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
I enjoyed reading this book there is a bit of mystery mixed into the love story. The hero and heroine make a deal he is going to see that her book is at least read by his publishing company and she is going to help him find his sister’s killer because this snake wants him to take the fall for it. I did like the characters and how they worked together. This is one I have recommended to all my friends. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 25, 2023
This story is full of misunderstandings, who-dunnits, lies and love. She wants his help to get a publisher to read her manuscript and in return she offers to help him with an alibi to his disappearances. They come up with a fake engagement that should help them both, but things start getting out of hand. This is the third story in the Southern Belles in London series. It can be read as a standalone, but there are reoccurring characters from the first two books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2023
For anyone who has read Harlequin Historical novels, this is a general story a person will find, and that is not a bad thing. I've loved this publisher's books for years. The bringing in of the American Civil War and also the British regency/Victorian, it is a favorite of mine, and how Henry and Susanne work together to prove his innocence, it is a smiling, and sometimes nerve wracking at the same time. Good times with this book, and hopefully more to come!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2023
This was a fun one for me. I loved Suzanne and Henry. They were both very interesting characters. They had strong personalities. She was trying to make her way in the world and he was trying to find out who had framed him for murder. In the midst of all that they would love together. It was really entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2023
Love a good historical romance that has lots of twists and turns in it. Unexpected events that keep you wondering how the story will end. The pretend love aspect and how the characters try to fight it is always entertaining to read. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2023
The romance and mystery are mesmerizing. I really enjoyed reading this historical romance and anticipate the next book in this wonderful series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2023
I enjoyed this story. The characters were great and I loved that the heroine was from America. It provided an interesting perspective to this historical romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2023
The American and the earl…
Next door…Henry is an earl who is being framed for multiple murders. So he’s searching Whitechapel for clues.
Suzanne is the tall American in London. She’s of questionable birth and becomes unlikely friends with Henry and maybe his countess.
Next door…Henry is an earl who is being framed for multiple murders. So he’s searching Whitechapel for clues.
Suzanne is the tall American in London. She’s of questionable birth and becomes unlikely friends with Henry and maybe his countess.
May 14, 2023
Action packed and emotionally thrilling journey filled with engaging charters, witty dialog, heart racing twists and undeniable passion. Highly entertaining and so hard to put down reading from beginning to end.
February 13, 2025
i really enjoyed this book. the hero and heroine work well together. i wish we got to see more the investgation side of it all but o well.
it was good to see the heroine two friends from the last book. it was a good end to a really good series
well done
it was good to see the heroine two friends from the last book. it was a good end to a really good series
well done
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April 2, 2023Historical Fiction, Sagas, Victorian Historical Fiction
Miniseries
Southern Belles in London (Book #3)
Miniseries
Southern Belles in London (Book #3)
April 28, 2023
Enjoyed reading this book, the storyline and characters were well written and it was an interesting read
May 1, 2023
Ever going to marry. Who believes that. Only our two main characters. Great story line with two great main characters and a sooth plot.
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