This book was ok. Nothing really exciting. I never felt a real connection between the h and h. There was attraction but nothing substantial.

Lady Emma, a member of the Distinguished Ladies of Purpose, works to help the less fortunate. After accidentally starting a rumor of a betrothal to the absent Earl of Peyton she gains notoriety for catching the elusive Earl. Imagine his surprise when he returns! He is intrigued by Emma and decides to play along.
Loved the story and characters. Great book.
Thank you Melanie Rose Clarke, Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me an advance copy for my honest feedback.

The Synopsis:

Lady Emma Sinclair is betrothed to the influential Earl of Peyton—or, at least, that’s what she wants everyone to think. See, the Earl of Peyton doesn’t exactly know that they are engaged as he’s not even in England and isn’t scheduled to return until after she disabuses the Ton of the engagement. In the meantime, she plans to use her newfound influence as the future Lady of Peyton in order further her own political prowess for the betterment of society as a member of the secret social justice society, The Ladies of Distinguished Purpose. And after the vote is cast, she will be able break the engagement with the Earl none the wiser.

What Emma doesn’t plan for, however, is the early return of the Earl.

Philip Fitzgerald, Earl of Peyton, finds himself oddly engaged while he was far away from England on a secret mission. His faux-finacee, Lady Emma Sinclair, is an intelligent woman with her own secrets, secrets he plans to find out before allowing her out of the engagement she started.

Philip follows Emma during one secret charity outing in a rough part of town and, masked so as not to be seen and give away his secret work, saves her from a group of ruffians. Word quickly spreads to the ton about the Masked Avenger that seems to be one of their own.

As Philip tries to hide his identity and Emma works to uncover the person who saved her in order to make sure her secret is kept, they grow begin to grow closer. Their dance of deception and secrecy can only last so long, however, and as each gets closer to the other’s truth, danger lurks right around the corner for them both. Will they be able to admit their growing attraction before it’s too late?


The Review:

I can’t say enough about how M R Clarke writes her internal and external character dialogues. There are absolutely moments when I laughed out loud and startled the dog. Or the cat. Or my husband. The characters are just so funny. Part of that is because they are well fleshed out as imperfect people trying to find happiness and make it through whatever crazy scenario they have gotten themselves into. In this case, a false betrothal that begins to slip into a magnetic attraction and eventual affection. That’s the true mark of a mainstay historical romance, but the hilarity is what truly sets Clarke apart.

Emma Sinclair’s imperfections are on full display. Some reviewers have said she’s a little bit of a flibberty gibbet in that she can’t see what’s right in front of her, but really she’s just in denial. It’s not that she doesn’t think it could be Philip, it’s more that she knows it’s him but that would be too good and fit too well. It’s just too perfect to fit in the imperfect world she finds herself in. Plus she is still in full denial of her feelings. Her entirely ‘irrational’ feelings.

Philip as a spy is also so perfect. As Emma tries to uncover his secrets and the identity of her masked savior, he is able to sidestep and dispel her notions that it could be him. It speaks to his cleverness and abilities as a spy. Unfortunately, his profession is also his downfall as he has isolated his family and must repair his relationship with his sister. He also isn’t able to be true to himself until his current case is over. That also means that he cannot admit to anyone his growing affection for Emma, which lends to the overall suspense in the perfect way. It’s a true will they won’t they throughout.

I really enjoyed this book and I am excited to start the third book in the series!

Thanks to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for this fair and honest review.

A Pretend Betrothal

Why would Emma pretend to be betrothed to Philip? She is not a grasping woman. Her actions are charitable and come from a place of kindness What would cause a woman like her to create such a rumor, and what happens when the earl returns from his travels?

Philip is a man with secrets, and he does not want Emma to know the truth. However, secrets can be dangerous. Philip might think that Emma’s lack of knowledge will protect her, but what if he is wrong?

This story has it all: romance, humor, mystery, intrigue, and even a superhero in disguise. It is a delightful story that will charm and entertain you.

Captured by the Earl by Melanie Rose Clarke is a witty and highly amusing tome about a young woman, Lady Emma Sinclair, who has let the ton assume that she is all but betrothed to Lord Phillip Peyton, who has been visiting America for the past three months. Unknown to society, Peyton chases criminals and other ne'er-do-wells in his job for the crown. She believes him to be on holiday. The fact is, she really doesn't know him but has used their "betrothal" to subtly influence voting in the House of Lords by indicating what his position is and convincing others to emulate him. His position is no really any different that she is indicating, but she is doing it without his knowledge. She is a social activist. Being a woman, any opinion she has is ignored, but his is not. She knows she will have to pay the piper one day, and she will when she hears he is on his way home. Until her arrives unannounced and discovers their "arrangement." At first he is nonplussed, but as he get to know he, he decides he may be interested in making it permanent.

This was a funny book. It was so charming to watch Peyton tease and torment Emma, as both of them are falling in loved. He is a charming character, and she is totally entertaining as she tried to rid herself of him. Somewhere along the line he determines to retire from his post and spend more time at home with his sister, Constance, with whom his relationship has suffered. This is a book dependent on excellently written characters as the plot is not much without them. The comedic timing us excellent, making this novel a joy to read.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Captured by the Earl by Dragonblade, though Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #melanieroseclarke #capturedbytheearl

4.5💫

It had been a long time that I laughed so much while reading a book..sure I've had good laughs and smiles all while reading some good contemporary romcoms!
But guys this is the first historical fiction I've read with so much fun and smiles...gah! It got me y'all

It's so fun to read such an amazing book, all the characters were perfect...Ah! Nothing more entertaining than watching the stubborn sassy women trying to be brave and doing various out of type acts in the social society so they could help someone poor..all the while having our protective hero's who just love their women so much they & get all protective with them & lose their wits only with their women...quiet a lot of FUN

It's such a great book to read and to have a good time for yourself.

I highly recommend this historical romcom!

* I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was not expected to give positive feedback, all views expressed are my own.

Emma is such a shy person in the first book of this series. It's nice to see her grow into herself and take what she wants. Which is to help others. So what she has to tell a little fib to do it. Surely Phillip will understand. Well, eventually maybe. Can't wait for the next book!

3 stars

James Bond, Batman combination meets Beau Brummel.

There were some farcical situations. The hero, heroine and friends are a bit 'pretty pollyanna' goody two shoes and the villains nefarious and ugly. I found the heroine too hot and cold for my liking. I haven't read book 1 perhaps that was essential in this series?

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I freaking loved this book! I want a Phillip of my own, please. I absolutely loved the journey he and Emma went on. It's a relatively novel premise so that was refreshing. And it was carried out so well. The character development was well done and did not feel rushed. It was great to see characters from the first book and I cannot wait for book 3!

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.

Ever since a little jest amongst friends turned into a full blown rumour, Lady Emma Sinclair has found herself in an 'arrangement' with the absent Earl of Peyton. The ton assume the two are basically engaged, and she finds that the influence that Peyton has on others has allowed her to spread her own message on social reform easier than if the men though it was her own opinion. But now Peyton has returned, and to say he's shocked to find himself engaged would be an understatement. All Peyton wants now he is home is to see his sister, and recover from a mission gone wrong in America. He can't let anyone close to him get hurt again, and a fiancee would scupper everything, or would it? The longer they are together, Peyton finds himself not wanting to break the fake engagement, and soon he will do anything to make Emma his - if only he can get her to agree.

I just loved this book. The first one, Escaping the Duke, was fantastic, so when this became available to review I knew I would enjoy it, but I was simply blown away from the very first page. Emma had let a little white lie get out of control, but the power that came with the assumption she would be the next Countess of Peyton was mind blowing, and she couldn't relinquish it yet, not before she had affected real change and good. She never expected Peyton to return so quickly, and when he did, apologised and wanted to release him from the arrangement. But Peyton had other ideas, and I loved how he thwarted her at every turn, and really was the perfect match for Emma. The whole book was witty and engaging, and I loved seeing how Priscilla and Edmund's story was going too. I hope in future books we see Alexander and Catherine's story, because they definitely need to get together!

Such a fun book and series. I loved the setup and the couple.

While Lord Peyton is away from London, Lady Emma insinuates that they are betrothed so she can use his name to influence her social justice causes in Parliament. When Philip returns, instead of being angry, he's intrigued and will do anything to make their fake engagement real.

I loved how Philip had to chase Emma even though she's the one that initially started the rumor. Emma is such a strong female character and so are her friends in this series. I LOVED the first book in this series and this one follows along those same lines. There's definitely steam and it's a fun journey to watch these two get together.

A fun addition to the historical romance genre. This book is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone novel. However, reading this series on order will definitely give you additional perspective with the interactions between Priscilla, Edmund, Emma, and Philip.

The plot of the novel has lighthearted elements and you get to see the tangled web that is woven around an unintended lie. Emma manages to get herself into some social justice shenanigans. Philip continues the unexpected betrothal without really expecting for it to lead into anything deeper. As with all romance novels, Philip soon realizes when he finds a unrealized ‘diamond of the first water’. One of my favorite quotes in the book was his turning point where Philip realizes…”Every part of him rebelled, as he grasped the invisible gauntlet and lifted an invisible sword. He could not, would not lose her.”

This book read a little slow for me. I enjoyed the plot of the book, which I would give the description 3rd-season debutante-created-fake-betrothal-but-he-shows-up crossed with master-spy crossed with both-caharacters-are-do-gooders-but-lie-about-it crossed with if-you-don't-tell-me-you-love-me -I-am going-to-fight-this-relationship-for-your-own-good.
This book was all that and more. Or less, as the case may be.The heroine made up an almost betrothal with a lord who was out of the country. The hero was out of the country doing spy work, but no one knows this. The heroine is saying that the hero sent her many letters asking her to talk to the parliament members to vote a certain way. The votes are always for the poor, orphans and child workers. The hero returns to Egland and he is surprised to hear that he is betrothed. He chases her down and then ends up chasing her from on dangerous escapade to another. All because she is 'being independent and strong' but in reality the heroine is being stupid and stubborn.
This book would have been a little better if they agreed to make the betrothal real and that the heroine listened to that little voice that said this is too dangerous, but she did it anyway.
I wish I knew why dippy heroines are always described as strong and original. No. They are just stupid heroines who won't listen to reason.
I do not recommend this book and give it 2 stars. One star for the title being appropriate and one star for the descriptive settings. The characters and plots were not enjoyable.

Captured by the Earl is a laugh out loud fake engagement romance! Philip, Earl of Peyton, must be a giant from his description, a very gentle gentleman. While the true Peyton is a gentle man, the alternate Peyton is a dangerous spy. I loved the ‘superhero’ trope of his rescuing people in dangerous situations, but that Emma could never quite figure it out. There could not be that many giants in England.

Emma, definitely a kind hearted, young lady, has gotten herself in a hot mess. She is not betrothed to Peyton, but neither does she deny a betrothal. There were times when I did not quite understand her insistence on breaking the betrothal, especially since she started it. Yet, all together, it makes for a delightful, light-hearted romance.

The ‘log to America’ and the ‘far part of the artic’ add to the crazy theme almost as secondary characters. Emma’s ‘self-talk’ has no end to keeping you intrigued with what she will say next. No matter as they help make this an adorable romance.

Delightfully entertaining, laugh out loud humor, inventive banter, a swoon worthy hero and a heroine that is so much fun! There are many adjectives I could use to describe this story, but you will just have to read to find out! Emma's banter inside her head is reason alone!

Emma is trying to raise awareness and money to support those less fortunate, and somehow gives the impression she is engaged to the Earl of Peyton, who is conveniently in America. Until he is not!

Peyton is intrigued when he enters the ball and hears of his "engagement" to Emma. What was he up to? Of course he had his secrets, but he really would not mind marrying her, making it real....

I cannot stress how much I loved this book! As many have said, this author is a definite must read!

This was such a fun read. The humor Melanie Rose Clarke used is so much fun and found myself laughing out loud. Lady Emma has herself practically engaged to the Earl of Peyton. He comes home after three months of being gone to smiles from everyone and hearty congratulations. Emma is not wanting to keep up the farce when she sees him but he rather likes the idea of their wedding so every time she turns around he is there. He has a side to him she knows nothing about and he hopes to keep it that way.

Lady Emma Sinclair is as a member of the Distinguished Ladies of Purpose. When she starts a rumour that she is Philip Fitzgerald, the Earl of Peyton, she hopes that that in his absence, she can use her power to help those less fortunate. Yet upon his return, Philip throws Emma and all of the ton into a spin, when he decides to follow through on the betrothal. However, Emma wants a love match, but Philip is decided that he will never love.
The interaction between the pair was quite entertaining, with both trying to hide their inner secrets from the other. It is these secrets that threaten any chance for happiness. I admired Philip and Emma’s determination to help society at large, yet it seemed as if their happiness took second place. This was definitely a fast paced book, with plenty of secondary characters to add to the depth of the story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

KIDNAPPED
A rumor is spreading throughout London that Lady Emma Sinclair is betrothed to the Earl of Peyton, only he does not know it. He has been in America for three months. When he returns and hears Emma's explanation, he does not seem to mind, in fact he is ready to make it real. Only he has this secret and has to keep it secret to keep her safe. Added to the fact he has to convince her not to call off the engagement. Emma's thoughts and the banter between her and Peyton are hilarious to the point they become inside jokes continuously through the book. A must read for pure entertainment.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

I absolutely loved this book!! Emma and Phillip (Peyton) were perfect together! I know I sat and read the book with a smile on my face, as well as some outright chuckles at their interactions and conversations.
Melanie Ross Clarke is definitely an author to follow. Wonderful main characters as well as secondary characters. Both the H and h have secrets, and there is wonderful wordplay and witticisms throughout.

I strongly encourage you to read this amazingly fun story. I know I will be looking for more books that Melanie writes.
I received an ARC of this book and chose to post this review.

I’ve experienced one of those books where all the elements make me happy but something doesn’t connect. Like when watching an episode of Face/Off (you’ll remember that?) and it gets to the ‘last looks’ and I’m like “why did this look better from 100 feet away”? That’s kind of how I feel about Capturing the Earl by Melaine Rose Clarke. You know that while the makeup artist had a full 2 days to pull just one look together, they totally dropped the ball. Their Ghila monster wouldn’t even pass the muster of a cheap episode of that terrible Josh Gates ‘Destination Truth” SYFY show. I enjoyed the sum of its parts, but once assembled seems to be a bit of a mess. Also, under the hot stage lights, the wax used to resemble moldy flesh is running down that poor model's face and it’s in her eyes, blinding her.

A little bit of plot
Emma Sinclair is an outspoken voice for social causes. Unfortunately, as an unmarried and shy member of the ton, her voice is unheard by those with the power to enact real change. When the opportunity presents itself, she perpetuates a rumor that she is betrothed to the captivating Phillip Fitzgerald, Earl of Peyton, who has been abroad for the past 3 months. With the influence that comes with being an Earl’s intended, she has gained the ear of many influential members of the house of lords. What happens when Peyton returns and she finds herself face to face with a man she’s not spoken 12 words to? Enough time spent in Emma’s company convinces Peyton that he wants this betrothal to become permanent - how will he convince Emma?

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)
Phillip Fitzgerald, Earl of Peyton

I absolutely adored Phillip: muscular, handsome, mysterious, protective, and sensual. What’s not to love?! I love how in historical romances, they always describe the hero to look like Henry Cavill in Enola Holmes
Lets be honest, that body was built based on whey protein, a bowflex, bench pressing a tractor tire, and eating nothing but cod for 9 months.

In reality, most men of the time had never heard of PreWorkout and have barely stepped out into the sunshine long enough to develop a truly good ‘base tan’. Do I still love this trope? Fuck yes, I do.

All that said, I am cognizant of what Phillip represents in modern day historical romance. Am I upset by it? Nope. What I liked about Phillip is that he considers his muscular body and stealthy honed instincts hindering his ability to remain undercover. As a spy (spoiler! But not really) and suspected “rescuer” of London, he sees his title as the disguise needed to keep his dangerous liaisons secret. Emma herself disbelieves that he has the disposition or mannerism to be a successful stealthy secret agent.

While I’m not a fan of overly possessive heroes in romance novels, for some reason I find it somewhat sexy. While I should be affronted every time Phillip claims Emma like a possession, I can’t deny it to be incredibly hot.

“He watched her carefully. Did she regret her actions?...Yet only happiness and satisfaction, shone in her eyes as she turned toward him, curling a slender leg over his. He grasped her thigh.”
Mine.”

Damn, son.

“He lowered his head, catching her attention once more. Now he was all seriousness, his eyes golden fire. ‘What you started can no longer be undone. You are mine.’”

Yes, yes I am.

While possessive and protective, he’s not unreasonable. Emma wants to continue her volunteer work, he refuses to let her go alone, therefore, he joins her on her social action outings. Through her work, Phillip finds his own sense of purpose. He institutes a clinic in the neighborhood along with providing access to schooling for the children of factory workers. Who doesn’t love a man that gives back?

The Meat (The Con)
While not a huge fan of romantic suspense, I do dabble in the genre. When we meet Peyton in the book, he is hot on the trail of another peer of the realm that is quite possibly into some nefarious dealings. We glean some of what the villain is planning but it’s extremely vague. By the end of the book, the entire subplot with the treasonous lords is wrapped up haphazardly. I’m not exactly sure what their motives were and what eventually happened to them as punishment. Similar issues can be found with many of the other subplots - too quick resolutions or just loose ends. We have an entire subplot with a suitor of Phillips' sister being sent to the arctic. Whatever happened to him? Did he get eaten by a polar bear? Die of hyperthermia? We never know. What’s with the look that Elizabeth gives the old gentleman she runs into on the street? Moreover, what the hell happens with Elizabeth? Does Phillip continue to be a spy? THESE ARE LEGITIMATE QUESTIONS to which I have no answers.

Additionally, if I’m being honest, I don’t know if I cared for Emma. She’s so focused on finding a love match yet confines her search with asinine criteria. She vows to find love with someone because of their social action ideas while refusing to acknowledge that she has no feelings whatsoever to her intended love interest. She finds herself inexplicably drawn to Phillip yet continues to push him away by demanding they dissolve the betrothal. Chica, you have a beautiful, socially conscious, wealthy, intelligent man lavishing attention on you and wanting to take care of you the rest of your life - go with it.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
A Light Easy Read
I finished this book in an afternoon. It sped along quite quickly and overall a happy little read. Light on any heavy drama and with no real consequences, just know that you’re not going to have all the answers you’d like by the end. I think if you are sitting in your little cool book nook on a fall afternoon with a cup of tea, you could do worse.