To Catch an Earl by Kate Bateman
Subgenre: historical romance
Release date: 30 Jun 2020
Publisher: St Martin’s
Format: ebook and print
Length: 330 pages
RRP: $8.10 (ebook); $14.25 (print)

It was a momentary meeting but enough to make an impact for both.

Emmaline D’Anvers, or Emmy Danvers, and her family are now in London and she has several encounters with Alexander Harland, Earl of Melton. She was even so bold to ask him to dance during a masked ball before he left for the Peninsula and war. But this is now four years on, and Emmy is on another mission.

Emmy Danvers is a jewel thief. And a quite successful one but she only targets specific items from the French royal family. She is carrying on the family tradition. Her father was the notorious Nightjar. It was expected that her brother would carry on the family legacy but his injuries in battle mean that he was unable to take on the mantel. The thefts are a family concern with Emmy, her brother Luc, grandmother Camille, and their servant. Behind the thefts is a shadowy figure who is desperate and will do whatever it takes to get the French jewels.

Harland has been fighting in the war. He has very fond memories of the woman he danced with even though he does not know her hair colour due to the wig, or the colour of her eyes as they were behind the mask. He was injured during the war and has some weaknesses, but it has not had an impact on his cunning skills as a detective for Bow Street. He is determined to find Nightjar and stop him. Alex enjoys the cat and mouse game he is involved in with Emmy, but when he manages to capture her, he finds the reason behind her desperation to get the jewels.

This book is a fun read as Emmy and Alex battle wits and skill. Emmy determined to steal the jewels and Alex determined to find Nightjar. This couple flirt with each other on two levels. Firstly, as they are attracted to each other and secondly, to best the other over the jewels.

Emmy overlooks his injuries, but they don’t really hold him back for what he wants to achieve. Alex amuses himself with her special interest and provides her with material to add to her collection. What is it? It is something I found interesting but I will leave the reader to discover what Emmy finds fascinating. But when Emmy is in danger, he is there for her and her family.

reviewed by Heather

A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.

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This was a great story by a great author. I’ve read a number of her books and they don’t disappoint. I really liked both main characters as well as the plot. I recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book

Emmy and Alex's story bu Kate Bateman, To Catch an Earl is a whirlwind love story that's enticing and intriguing. Emmy and Alex has become one of my favorite characters in the romance genre and that's a HUGE compliment! I highly recommend everyone who enjoys a sizzling romance and delightful characters to read this book!

I quite enjoyed this one! A historical romance with a dash of heist adventure throw in- great mix. The history between the characters added a nice dimension to the story - it wasn't just insta-love, but a long-standing, won't-be-denied attraction. Emmy's character in particular drew me in.

I love this series!
I'm a big fan of stories with Bow Street Runners. Not sure what it is but I love them. I enjoy mysteries added in to my historical romance reads too.

After reading book one in this series I was (im)patiently waiting for book two. The wait was worth it. Such a fantastic book!

A jewel thief, a woman jewel thief! Yes! An Earl/Bow Street agent who is after her sets up a fantastic plot. Loved the cat and mouse games, the chemistry between the main characters, fantastic side characters and a steamy romance.

Looking forward to book three!

I think it’s safe to say that Bateman is a new favorite histrom author of mine. This was such a fun read, with lots of simmering tension, clever repartee and engaging cat-and-mouse shenanigans between the heroine (a jewel thief) and the hero (a Bow Street Runner). I really love Bateman’s use of classic romance tropes for even more memorable effect, and I always enjoy reading histroms about characters who aren’t necessarily part of the aristocracy (the hero is titled, but it’s more something that’s bestowed on him for service than anything he was born into). Can’t wait to pick up the next book in the series!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I love Emmy and Harland! What is a notorious jewel thief supposed to do when she falls for Bow Street's most dogged investigator? From the first page, I was intrigued and hopeful. The slow simmer of their relationship bursts into a full blown inferno and I loved every minute of it!

To Catch an Earl is the second book in Ms. Bateman’s Bow Street Bachelors series. And, pun intended, I am caught. It’s no secret I’m a fan of historical romance. All the better if my heroines are feisty, brilliant, and independent. Likewise, my heroes must possess wit, humor, have an air of mystery, yet in the end be a big teddy bear to the woman who steals his heart. Add some fabulous chemistry and banter to a backstory with intrigue, and friends, we have a winner.
Alex Harland, Earl of Melton and Bow Street agent extraordinaire, is set on finding the identity of the Nightjar, an elusive jewel thief. His investigations keep him bumping into the beautiful Emmy Danvers. And strangely, this lady elicits similar heart palpitations that one mysterious woman did years before, at a masquerade party. Where they shared a kiss before she ran off into the night—has a slight ring of Cinderella, no?
No spoilers since this is revealed immediately - but Emmy is the Nightjar. Or at least Nightjar 2.0, taking over the role after her father passes and her brother is injured. She also stole that kiss years ago from Alex, no surprises there, either. But Emmy’s role of the Nightjar is layered and complicated, and the closer Alex gets to discovering the Nightjar’s identity, the closer he becomes to Emmy. Also, the harder it becomes for Emmy to deceive Alex, especially when their attraction intensifies with each interaction.
As I’m sure you can guess, Emmy’s identity eventually comes to surface. And how Alex and Emmy navigate this is lovely. Especially when it comes time for both Alex and Emmy to make sacrifices for one another.
I love Emmy’s character. She’s not a simpering miss, but one who is smart, agile, and able to save herself. And she’s one hell of a sneaky thief. Yet allowing a little help from Alex doesn’t lessen her strength. Nor does it make him the savior. Rather they do a great job of saving each other. It’s rather sweet.
If you want a twist on roles, with the heroine as the supposed “bad guy” though truly she’s a “good guy,” and a hero who understands nuance engaging in a fabulous game of cat and mouse, this is an excellent choice for light fun reading.

Hit all the notes that a romance novel should. Witty banter and steamy bedroom scenes make this cat and mouse tale of a jewel thief and bow street runner a fun read.

Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley

Alex Harland, Earl of Melton, is a detective of sorts with the Bow Street Runners and is tasked with hunting down Nightjar. Emmy Danvers is an elusive jewel thief.

Emmy has always been intrigued by Alex. Before Alex headed off to war, they met at a masquerade and fell for each other. Four years later, Alex is still looking for the mystery woman from that night. With his new task of hunting down the Nightjar jewel thief, could both be one and the same?

Watching their game of cat and mouse unfold was very entertaining. As well as the secondary characters, Camille is by far my favorite. The chemistry throughout definitely kept me intrigued.

Alex Harland was a second son and dedicated rake when he first encountered the mysterious woman at a ball before he left for war. Alex has returned to England and due to his service, he is now the Earl of Melton. As an agent for Bow Street, Alex is pursuing the notorious thief, Nightjar. Little does he know that they are the same person.

Emily Danvers is the daughter of Nightjar. She is being blackmailed into assuming her father's identity to reclaim France's crown jewels. She encounters Alex Harland and realizes he is the man she met years ago at the ball when he stole a kiss from her.

Now Emily has to stay one step ahead of Alex before he finds out she is the thief he is looking for. Alex will do anything to protect Emily once he realizes she is the thief he has been searching for.

I was hooked on this book from the first chapter. I liked the characters. Emily was the fiery heroine devoted to helping her family. Alex was the brooding hero trying to find the mysterious woman who had stole into his subconscious. The book was fast paced and the banter between Emily and Alex was perfect.

This book was a great escape.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you!

Emmy Danvers met Alexander Harland at a masked ball. Emmy forced her way to dance with Alex without knowing who each other truly are. After the dance Emmy couldn’t resist sharing a kiss with Alex that not only would be frustrating but so memorable that neither would forget it. Four years later, Alex is now the Earl of Merlton, fighting crime with his two best friends and an owner of a gambling den. Alex has been duped yet again by the mysterious Nightjar, a thief that steals jewels. Emmy has actually been helping her father known as the infamous Nightjar steal the jewels and return them to France. When Alex meets Emmy there is just something odd and he just can’t trust her either even though he attracted to her. Emmy also strongly feels for Alex but considering her line of work especially if Alex ever finds out who Emmy truly is.
The Regency story instantly pulls you in with heart-stopping action, intrigue and forbidden romance. The writing is fluid making the book flow seamlessly. There is quite a bit that happens and plot twists abound that definitely leaves one either biting the nails or on the edge of their seats. The jewels and a few scenes are hard to envision at times though. There are some frustrating moments and at times you just want to scream at everything going on especially when it seems that Alex gets close to the thief but slips through his grasp or the times sexy interludes that keep getting interrupted. Emmy the ever cunning and smart heroine makes you smile with her attempts to elude Alex yet also makes you a little upset in playing him too. Alex the detective turned earl isn’t a bad guy but at times seems a bit muddled, maybe it’s due to the emotions. Still despite all the aggravating moments it is still a wonderful thrilling adventure!

I really enjoyed this. I think Kate Bateman is becoming a favorite for me. Her characters are always so well thought out and unique. Also, the women are stronger and more independent than in most historical romances, which is something I like.
The plot was really good and I can't wait for the next in the series.

Another great story by Kate Bateman! She has quickly become an auto-buy author for me as I love everyone of her books that I've picked up.

This story is focused a jewel thief called Nightjar and Alex Harland, a Bow Street agent, is going to solve the mystery of who Nightjar truly is. When he keeps crossing paths with Emmy Danvers in his investigation, he starts to feel things he hasn't felt in a while. Emmy has secrets and with Alex on the case, she knows she is in danger of being caught. I loved the way the relationship was developed between these characters and the chemistry is great.

If you're in the mood for a historical romance with solid characters and an interesting story, check this one out!

To Catch an Earl is one of the Bow Street Bachelors titles and also one of the most endearing ones! Kate Bateman's writing skills are engaging and enticing and I truly enjoyed this book.

In To Catch an Earl, the main characters, Emmy Danvers and Alexander Harland are deliciously funny, sweet, and courageous. Having met at a ball years ago, Emmy felt immediately drawn to Alex, who is now an Earl and agent of the Bow Street Runners. On her previous thievery mission, Emmy did not intend to interact with Alex,who was on the hunt for the mysterious and notorious, Nightjar. Years later, they meet again and the story progresses rather quickly after that.

To Catch an Earl is one of my favorite out of all three of the Bow Street Bachelors series. My other favorite is The Princess and the Rogue. But in To Catch an Earl, the scenes are a bit steamier and racier and your heart will beat frantically along with Emmy and Alex! Emmy is such a courageous and sweet character that you will want to instantly root for her. Alex is a "rogue" and determined to never let his heart win over his head, but he fell hard for Emmy and there was no going back!

The wordplay between the two main characters are fun to read. The supporting characters are also delightful and helped move the story along. But what I enjoyed most with this book is how Kate was able to dedicate the individual characteristics of Emmy and Alex. You are either rooting for Alex or hating him altogether.

I definitely recommend you read all of the Bow Street Bachelor books to get a sense of the backstories and the other two "bachelors". This story is romantic, touching, and easy to read from beginning to end. You'll enjoy the historical aspects added in and how the Bow Street Runners were so popular back in old England. I indeed learned some great history as well!

Thank you, Netgalley and Kate for this wonderfully written story!

I voluntarily read an advanced review copy of this book

Alex Harland, Earl of Melton is out to catch a thief and while it may take him a while to figure it out he cant help but want Emmy all to himself. Can Alex catch Emmy's heart without landing her in newgate? Read and find out!

I thought this book was pretty good Emmy and Alex were great together they were both very strong characters that had their own agendas but somehow the two people that should stay very far apart couldn't help but want to be near each other. Overall not a bad read was just slightly annoyed about why Emmy was doing what she was doing.

Oh this was delightful with a heroine to love, great banter and a man oh so swoon-worthy and a wonderful jewel thief that is being chased. Alex is the Earl of Melton and has joined this elite group of undercover investigators working for the Crown. Before he left for the war, however, Alex had a kiss with a masked woman – one who never shared her name. He’s never forgotten that kiss, and now back at home and all of the investigatory tools in his belt, he’s working that ‘case’ for his own heart.

Emmy is bold, brash, daring and adorable: with quick wit, determination and a HUGE secret to hide. She is the notorious Nightjar – the jewel thief that has been evading capture and pocketing baubles – much to the tonne’s distress. And now, she has one more thing to worry about with Alex on the job: she’s drawn to him like a moth to a flame –but is certain he doesn’t remember her. He could, however, be the most dangerous person she could encounter – and she could lose her freedom AND her heart.

I adored this story –Bateman has woven historic moments and agencies, clever banter, a connection that is palpable and the ever-important ‘crisis’ that could separate the characters from their happy ever afters. If you like your historic romance with elements to detract from, enhance and lead the couple on a happy dance – this is the story for you!

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=” http://iam-indeed.com/catch-earl-kate-bateman/”> <a> I am, Indeed </a>

3.5 stars

Still loved the first book more, but I really liked this one too. The cat-and-mouse chase between Alex and Emmy are so entertaining, and Camille's my favourite character.

I love stories like this! They’re not exactly enemies to lovers but more like hero and villain in a sense. She’s a thief and he’s a Bow Street Runner set out to capture her, only he doesn’t know it’s her. When he realizes it is, that’s when things get fun.

Their chemistry was off the charts. But it’s hard to stay on the right side of the law when you’re falling for someone who’s on the wrong side. These two were made for each other. It was so fun watching their game of cat and mouse.

And of course the side characters are always a nice addition. I look forward to their stories as well.

He's a detective. She's a thief. What could possibly go wrong?
Alex is an Earl, but also an inspector with the Bow Street Runners. He's on the hunt for the Nightjar, a thief who has eluded everyone. He's unaware that the very one he pursues is Emmy. She's also the girl who's always carried a tendre for him and the very same girl who kissed him years ago and ran away. He's never forgotten her. She's the only one who has ever stirred his heart.