How to Tempt an Earl

The second novel I have read from Tina Gabrielle, it is clear she is a talented writer, particularly when it comes to historical romance. While the premise to How To Tempt an Earl is not original by far, Gabrielle’s take was highly enjoyable. The story is well developed, though has some slight inconsistencies. Pair with the author's easy style, it flows smoothly and quickly. The main characters are tangible and likable despite having flaws, and the heroine is intelligent and resourceful. The story is amusing with the right amount of emotion. While the novel is not without its flaws, it is an enjoyable historical romance.

Grace is a great heroine. She doesn't sit idly by and let life happen to her. She sets about changing the odds. Even if it lands her in more trouble than she could have thought possible. Ian is used to playing the odds, but his heart is thrown a curve when a seductive temptress graces his doorstep. She has demands, he needs as a favor and it just so happens they each fit the bill. Will a luck of draw mean deuces for their arrangement or will love deal them a winning hand?

This fast paced adventure held me spellbound.. From the very beginning I was intrigued that a proper young lady was masked and entering a gambling hell, the Raven Club to bargain with the owner over her father's gambling debts. What you say? It is the old story of gambling away all their funds but with a definite twist as Grace Ashton, seemingly an innocent is determined. What she finds is Ian Swift, the recently titled Earl of Carleton, not giving an inch. Indeed he is amazed at her audacity but will not take her jewelry as payment. Grace really begs him to not let her father in the club but as Ian pointed out he would just go elsewhere. Ian was suffering his own problems with his mother pushing him take his place in polite society so that his sisters could have their come out. He has been doing what he wanted for years and was really not fit to be seen. So he develops a plan to have Grace get him into shape to be what he needs to be to help his sisters. Can the plan work? Tina Gabrielle has an amazing writing style that actually kept me up into the night until I turned the last page. I truly could not put it down once I started. The characters came to life and I felt for Ian and Grace and in the end they needed to save each other. One of my favorite trope. This was the first book by the author I have read but I have to say, I cannot wait to read more!!