Book 3 of “Theirs” series. This very sensual and carnal story also has 3 great characters who almost jump off the pages. They all have become adults in disparate situations. A former courtesan (now thief), a thief (former orphan), and rich gentry. The thieves get a thrill from attending balls uninvited and relieving the ton of some jewelry and cash—until Zara and Hux are seen making love and showing off their spoils by Richard Fitzroy. Richard is drawn to the duo like it’s a strange magnetic force. An invitation to his country estate brings about some interesting situations. You must read it to realize their ardor and see whether they can understand their inexplicable feelings.

I loved that Richard was so honest and open with Zara and Hux. He didn’t play any games. It was unnerving that Hux felt such low self-esteem and unworthy of Zara and Richard. It was short and sensual, but had a great plot and characters.

I received a free copy of the book in advance and am leaving this review voluntarily.

Their Countess by Jess Michaels
Theirs #3

Sizzling sensual story with a HEA ending for Zara, Hux, and Richard. This trio might not have been my favorite in the series but I know when I pick up a book by this author that I will finish the last page totally satisfied…and I did.

What I liked:
* Zara: survivor, ex-courtesan, beautiful, knows what she want and isn’t afraid to ask for it, giving, caring, and loving
* Huxley: survivor, thief, on the streets early in life, lives on the edge, possible thrill seeker, protective, caring, genuine – really liked him
* Richard: widow, wealthy, dominant, taken with Zara and Hux, reaches for what he wants but does not take what is not freely given, generous, caring, compassionate…intriguing man
* Watching the relationship develop between the three main characters and watching them grow, share, and find their future together
* Gilbert Wren: investigator, interested me, wondered if he might show up in a future book, seemed wise and knowledgeable
* That I became invested in the story and the characters
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about the difficult times the characters experienced – all three had difficulties that had to be dealt with in the past
* That I wanted to know more about all three than I had in this novella and would like to find out how they were doing further into the future

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Passionate Pen for the ARC – this is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

In each book of this series there is one outstanding character and in this story it is Hux. He really pulled at my heart. He might look carefree and be a thief, but underneath it all he is such a sweetheart with Zara as his kitten to protect. Man, I loved him. Another quick read of the erotic nature from Jess.

3.25 stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5

When you read the description of the book, you know what you're in for. This is a MFM historical romance and if you're looking for no-nonsense/straight-to-the-point type of spice this is for you!

As far as spice goes this book delivers, but I did end up wanting more depth in the characters. Yes, I know it is a novella, but I wanted the same amount of attention and detail paid to Richard's chatacter as there was to Zara's and Hux's. There was a sort of insta-lust to their whole throuple that fell flat.

The majority of the story focused on the romantic relationship between Zara and Hux, as well as their backstory. It added more nuance to why they are the way they are and the dynamic of their relationship with one another. The author touched on some sensitive subjects without going "too much in the weeds", which I think did well in this case. But if I'm being honest I would have read a full length novel about these two because DAMN. The chemistry was HOT.

I think I also wanted more thievery on Zara and Hux's part, I wanted to hear more about the thrill of stealing from the rich groups they frequented but were never a part of! There was only a hint at the beginning and end of the novella, give me more crimes!

A bit predictable character and plot-wise but a fun romp regardless.

My thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

3.5 stars rounded up

Whether fair or not, I’m not sure, but when I was thinking about how many stars I’d give this novella, I couldn’t help but compare it to the first two in the series, “Their Marchioness” and “Their Duchess.” I loved the first two; this one I liked, but it didn’t quite have the magic for me that the first two did.

I was instantly enamored with Hux and Zara; enamored with their soulmate-like connection, their devotion to one another, and the intense heat they shared. Two thieves, living on the edge, taking mad risks and getting off on the danger, yes, but also so much more. The little bit of their individual and shared backstories the author gave us was so intriguing to me that I would have loved a full length novel of their story before they met Richard. They were hotness personified and damn if they didn’t Make. Me. Burn.

”Right now, there is only one spoil I want to take, Zara.”

Her breath was short now as she shifted, bunching her dress around her hips so he could see she wore nothing beneath.
[…]
And then it was magic, one she had studied for years with this man. She rode him, pressing her forehead to his, their gazes locked, their breath matching as she ground toward her pleasure.

They went on like that for a while, not too long due to the danger, but long enough that the edge of release teased.

“I want to feel it Zara, let me feel it,” he whispered, his voice rough.

Richard fell flat for me, and his insta-love wasn’t quite believable. I loved his dominance in bed, especially with Zara, and how he intuitively knew just how to handle Hux, who was very skittish about letting Richard in. It’s hard for me to put my finger on what, exactly, I felt his character was lacking. Maybe he just seemed a little two-dimensional compared to Hux and Zara.

This novella continued the theme found in the first two; that of a man and a woman who love each other, who have years of history together, amazing physical chemistry and a deep emotional connection… but the love between them remains unspoken and all feel on a subconscious level that something intangible is missing. The joy they feel when together they meet a man and realize it’s not something that’s been missing, but rather someone. A fantastic theme that could be explored endlessly and I’d be one very happy reader.

I was kind of bummed when I picked this up and began reading, because I assumed it was the final novella in a series I’ve really enjoyed. But, there’s icing on this sweet little cake and this note from the author, in the preface, made my day:

“This book is for all the readers who fell in love with this series as much as I did when I wrote it! Look for more coming next year! You guys made my “comeback” so amazing!”

If you will keep writing them, Ms Michaels, it will be my pleasure to keep reading them!

I highly recommend this series to lovers of well-written historical erotica. All three novellas were filled with intense connection, super smokin hot sex, and emotional depth and I cannot wait for the next.

(I found Mr Wren to be an interesting side character and really wanted him to join Hux, Zara and Richard 😈. Maybe he’ll get his own story?)

Hux and Zara have been lovers and thief partners for years. Richard becomes a part of the threesome. This is the third book in the series and felt a bit predictable after reading the previous books. The characters were interesting and the sex 🌶️🌶️🌶️. 3 stars.

This was, for me, the weakest novella in the "Theirs Series." Now, it for sure checked all the boxes of this fantastic MMF trio of stories, it just didn't quite have the same overall feeling of the other two. The premise of some Ocean's Eleven style thievery and hot romance was fun, but the plot felt fast and flat in comparison. I think the key here is that Richard's immediate willingness to jump all in on being part of a crime trio felt out of character for what little we knew about him. The tragic back stories were slightly more trite as well. While I still highly recommend the entire series (and the author in general), I would have liked to have seen a stronger finale to the collection.

Their Countess - Jess Michaels

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

The third installment (and last unfortunately) in this novella mmf series by Jess Michaels may be my favorite of the three.

I enjoyed this so much! The length was perfect and the balance between the plot and the steam was excellent. If you like a decent plot with your steam and you want a historical romance, look no further.

Just like the last 2 novellas, the steam is top notch. Especially the scene between Hux and Richard, it was so emotional and you could just sense the love between them, even though Hux couldn’t actually say the words.

Thank you Netgalley and Victory Editing for providing a copy for review.

I read the three books in this series and what you see is what you get. They are fun to read with threesome romance. There is no hardcore and complex plot but still enjoyable. A bit heavier on the romance and sex scenes with a dash of emotion.

Hux, Zara and Richard make a wonderfully threesome. I love how protective and respectful Hux is with Zara then how Richard fits with them as well.

I think the first one was my favorite but I enjoy how each book has a different set of characters and how they are all brought together by difference circumstances. Can’t wait for Jess Michaels next book/series because I will pretty much read anything she writes!

*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

Third book in this series. It definitely can be read as a stand alone. A couple of thieves enjoy the hunt of the steal. But how long will they get away with it? Someone eventually catches them and is intrigued by what they do. He invites them to his house party. Things get steamy from there. Enjoyed this book.

This series is really fun! This one has THIEVES. Overall, it's a pretty straightforward series--one m/f couple gets a third--but Michaels adds emotional nuance to each triad that makes each installment uniquely fun.

The best in the series!

The chemistry was palpable from page one and the story line may be the best of the three. Yes this is borderline erotica but there was a little more to it, IMHO.
Throughout the series Michael's has played with power dynamics between men and women, lower and upper class, and I think it comes out best here. Two of the MCs are lower class and have internal struggles, the other MC uses his power to draw them in and ultimately boldly save them.

It was a fun series!

I enjoyed the story. It is well written and very entertaining. Two thieves and an Earl make for an interesting story and then add the instant s@xual attraction between the three of them and you have one hot reading experience. Zara, Hux and Richard are three people who have had loss and hurt in their life but in the end they come together in a bond that is meant to last a lifetime. I liked how they were able to avoid a dangerous situation and stay together. I found the Epilogue to be different from what I was expecting. I was in hopes they would have learned their lesson earlier and not still be thieving. Having Richard spy out their next prey was somewhat out of character for him. Overall it is a very good read and I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.

Their Countess by Jess Michaels is the third book in the Theirs series. This is an MFM storyline.

Zara is a former courtesan turned thief. She has the perfect guise and distracts the mark and her partner Peregrine “Hux” Huxley goes in for the grab. They've been able to talk their way out of sticky situations in the past, but this time they have let their guard down and are faced with a unique proposal. Richard wants to add excitement to his life and Zara and Hux are the perfect addition. Now they have to decide if they can be more than moving bodies, can they find each other's hearts as well.

I really liked this one! Just a fun, steamy addition to Michaels’ ongoing series that didn’t dip too deep into angst and set up a refreshing dynamic between two career thieves and the aristo who finds himself drawn to them both. They’re engaging enough to devour in a day but this whole series will be sticking with me for a while — I think Michaels is really skilled at pacing and making sure the story is as fleshed out as it can be for the page length we get. (Also, one of the heroes is inspired by Taika? I was sold from the jump, really.) More true, swords-crossing triads in histrom, please!

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

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

After finding their rhythm together as a double act to steal from the rich, Hux and Zara risk it all to be together. And when they are spotted by the wrong person, who invites them to his home with his own agenda, can they keep their heads in the face of pleasure? For the first time since losing his wife and child, Richard Fitzroy is attracted to someone, to two someones, and he has leverage over them. Hoping they will be willing to join him, Richard finds that he is more out of his comfort zone than he expected.

I expected that this book would be hot and steamy, especially after reading the two previous books, and Jess did not disappoint. Their Countess sees Zara Cooper, former courtesan and thief, and her partner (in all things), Peregrine Huxley, make a mistake at a party, and be caught stealing (and being intimate) by Richard. They don't realise it, though, and think that the invite to his country 'house party' would be the best opportunity for another take. But they are the only people invited, and are caught red handed with his belongings. Richard gives them a deal - have a week of ecstasy, or leave. He won't blackmail them, but he hopes they will choose his preferred option. Like with the previous books, there's not much of a plot, but even so, this was enjoyable. I'm looking forward to what Jess has next.

This is a historical MMF that's hot, fun, and brings a little emotion to the table. If you're in it for the swords crossing mediated by a woman who knows what she wants, then you've found a winner.

Oh, you want more? OK, OK! The "countess" isn't really a countess, that was just Zara's name back when she was a celebrated courtesan. Now she's a thief along with her friend, Hux. One day, as they are celebrating a successful heist by wearing the jewels they stole while having sex in the library of a house where a ball is still in progress, they're so enthralled by each other that they don't even notice another man watching them. But Richard sure notices them! He's taken with them both and invites them back to his place for a house party of three.

You know what happens: they all get it on with each other everywhere they can. When it seems like they might be pursued for their crimes, they find the faith in their throuple to work things out. This series gives you exactly what you want from MMF historical er0tic romance without any playing around.

This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.

This delicious novella starts with Zara, a former courtesan known as the Countess, and Hux, her partner in life and crime, attending a ball and picking the pockets of those in attendance. They take a break from their thieving for a romantic interlude and are witnessed by Richard, a party attendee. Richard invites the pair to his estate under the guise of a party but when they arrived there is only Richard. The three begin a steamy yet loving affair that they can’t seem to quit.

I really enjoyed the previous book in this series, Their Duchess, and liked this one equally as well. I was expecting Zara to be another aristocrat given her nickname so I was happy to find that she was lower class. I always enjoy a play on class structure. Like the last one, this book is MMF so everyone gets to enjoy each other’s company. I also liked the thieving aspect of the book because it too added an extra layer to the story that made this book feel like a real novella rather than a short erotic story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Passionate Pen for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

Genre: MFM historical erotica
England, 19th century

Zara Cooper, former courtesan known as the Countess, and her partner Peregrine “Hux” Huxley, love nothing more than to enter a world of wealth and power, command a room, and lift a few jewels. Well, that and a passionate tryst right afterwards. They don’t realize on one occasion, though, that they are being watched by Richard Fitzroy. Richard is a man of power and wealth, and yet stands apart from the gentry and aristocrats himself. He finds himself drawn to Zara and Hux, and watching them brings out a passion in him long forgotten. When Richard invites Zara and Hux to his estate, they think they can use him as a mark, while Richard thinks he can win their hearts.

An erotic novella that starts with a theft and a bang in the first ten pages?! Sign me up. I was on board with this one from the beginning, having enjoyed the dynamics in the previous book in this series, Their Duchess. Adding a bit of class difference and a touch of thievery to a MFM love story gives it just enough plot to keep me engaged. I’m rarely a smut for smut’s sake reader, but Jess Michaels’s erotica has just enough plot and character for me to also really enjoy the explicit and intimate scenes. While not groundbreaking, this was thoroughly enjoyable, and Michaels gives us several scenes with all three, as well as separate scenes with each pairing, making it clear that Zara, Hux, and Richard care deeply for each other.