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Ways of Love #1
Why the Earl is After the Girl
A missing heirloom. A stolen inheritance. Can love conquer mistrust?
Athena Hawthorne never imagined that she would lose everything she'd ever had. But after the death of her father, his prosperous jewelry store is sold off to pay his supposed debts. Athena, now destitute, embarks on a mission to discover the truth, but circumstances force her to accept an offer from a handsome stranger to work as a governess. She's determined to clear her father's name, but a certain earl is making matters far more difficult than necessary. And she can't be in danger of losing her heart to a member of the aristocracy...
Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, is convinced that Athena is a grasping thief who stole a priceless family heirloom, the rare sapphire known as the Couleur Magnifique. When he offers her the position of governess to his sister's children, he only intends to catch her in some nefarious scheme and get back the sapphire—his grandmother's dying wish. But he soon discovers that keeping his distance—and his sanity—around the beautiful Athena isn't as easy as he'd planned. It certainly doesn't help that his sister and his best friend plead her innocence at every frustrating turn. Soon he's struggling between honoring his promise and his growing attraction to Athena.
But there's danger closer than either expect. Even a masquerade can't hide Athena from the curiosity of the ton forever...and there's a threat hiding among the highest members of society...
Athena Hawthorne never imagined that she would lose everything she'd ever had. But after the death of her father, his prosperous jewelry store is sold off to pay his supposed debts. Athena, now destitute, embarks on a mission to discover the truth, but circumstances force her to accept an offer from a handsome stranger to work as a governess. She's determined to clear her father's name, but a certain earl is making matters far more difficult than necessary. And she can't be in danger of losing her heart to a member of the aristocracy...
Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, is convinced that Athena is a grasping thief who stole a priceless family heirloom, the rare sapphire known as the Couleur Magnifique. When he offers her the position of governess to his sister's children, he only intends to catch her in some nefarious scheme and get back the sapphire—his grandmother's dying wish. But he soon discovers that keeping his distance—and his sanity—around the beautiful Athena isn't as easy as he'd planned. It certainly doesn't help that his sister and his best friend plead her innocence at every frustrating turn. Soon he's struggling between honoring his promise and his growing attraction to Athena.
But there's danger closer than either expect. Even a masquerade can't hide Athena from the curiosity of the ton forever...and there's a threat hiding among the highest members of society...
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2016
About the author
Tabetha Waite
86 books810 followersTabetha Waite is a hybrid romance author, published with Soul Mate Publishing, and upcoming works with Dragonblade and Wolf Publishing, although she enjoys the control and flexibility that being an Indie provides. She currently has more than 40 books to her credit.
Tabetha grew up in a small town in Missouri with big dreams of being an author after her fourth grade teacher said she liked reading her stories. She began her journey by putting pen to paper writing anything from fantasy to mystery, but it wasn’t until she started high school that her grandmother introduced her to the classic, Gothic novels. As her love of romance grew to encompass Harlequins, it wasn’t until she read “Midnight Bride” by Kathleen Drymon did she develop a fascination for historical England. After discovering Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters, she was hooked! It wasn’t until 30 years and 63 rejections later that her debut novel, “Why the Earl is After the Girl,” the first book in her Ways of Love series was picked up for publication to critical acclaim in 2016 by Etopia Press. She's won several awards for her books.
When she’s not writing, Tabetha is reading as true bookworms do, checking out any flea market, antique mall, or doll show she comes across.
You can find her on most any social media site and she encourages any fans of her work to join her mailing list to learn more about upcoming novels or events.
Tabetha grew up in a small town in Missouri with big dreams of being an author after her fourth grade teacher said she liked reading her stories. She began her journey by putting pen to paper writing anything from fantasy to mystery, but it wasn’t until she started high school that her grandmother introduced her to the classic, Gothic novels. As her love of romance grew to encompass Harlequins, it wasn’t until she read “Midnight Bride” by Kathleen Drymon did she develop a fascination for historical England. After discovering Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters, she was hooked! It wasn’t until 30 years and 63 rejections later that her debut novel, “Why the Earl is After the Girl,” the first book in her Ways of Love series was picked up for publication to critical acclaim in 2016 by Etopia Press. She's won several awards for her books.
When she’s not writing, Tabetha is reading as true bookworms do, checking out any flea market, antique mall, or doll show she comes across.
You can find her on most any social media site and she encourages any fans of her work to join her mailing list to learn more about upcoming novels or events.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 29, 2019
A missing heirloom. A stolen inheritance.
Athena Hawthorne never imagined that she would lose everything she'd ever had. But after the death of her father, his prosperous jewellery store is sold off to pay his supposed debts leaving Athena destitute, so she embarks on a mission to discover the truth, but circumstances force her to accept an offer from a handsome stranger to work as a governess. Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, is convinced that Athena is a grasping thief who stole a priceless family heirloom, the rare sapphire known as the Couleur Magnifique. When he offers her the position of governess to his sister Cassie's children, he only intends to catch her in some nefarious scheme and get back the sapphire his grandmother's dying wish. But he soon discovers that keeping his distance and his sanity around the beautiful Athena isn't as easy as he'd planned. It certainly doesn't help that his sister and his best friend plead her innocence at every frustrating turn. But there's danger closer than either expect. Even a masquerade can't hide Athena from the curiosity of the ton forever.
An engaging debut novel the story is well paced & the characters are well portrayed. There are twists & turns along the way & I certainly wasn’t expecting an inscription at the end. I soon found myself engrossed in the book & will certainly read the next books in the series. The book is well written & on the whole well researched. However my one gripe was the novel is set in 1819 but there are references to works by Poe & Dickens who were 10 & 7 respectively!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Athena Hawthorne never imagined that she would lose everything she'd ever had. But after the death of her father, his prosperous jewellery store is sold off to pay his supposed debts leaving Athena destitute, so she embarks on a mission to discover the truth, but circumstances force her to accept an offer from a handsome stranger to work as a governess. Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, is convinced that Athena is a grasping thief who stole a priceless family heirloom, the rare sapphire known as the Couleur Magnifique. When he offers her the position of governess to his sister Cassie's children, he only intends to catch her in some nefarious scheme and get back the sapphire his grandmother's dying wish. But he soon discovers that keeping his distance and his sanity around the beautiful Athena isn't as easy as he'd planned. It certainly doesn't help that his sister and his best friend plead her innocence at every frustrating turn. But there's danger closer than either expect. Even a masquerade can't hide Athena from the curiosity of the ton forever.
An engaging debut novel the story is well paced & the characters are well portrayed. There are twists & turns along the way & I certainly wasn’t expecting an inscription at the end. I soon found myself engrossed in the book & will certainly read the next books in the series. The book is well written & on the whole well researched. However my one gripe was the novel is set in 1819 but there are references to works by Poe & Dickens who were 10 & 7 respectively!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 9, 2017
What a great debut story!! I love historical romances and this fit right into everything I enjoy. Mystery. intrigue, romance and humor took the story through to the end. What happens when a a woman is left destitute after her father dies and finds that nothing adds up? Athena Hawthorne sets out to find out why her father owed so many debts, but seemed to be a prosperous jewelry store merchant. Through what seemed a fortuitous meeting with Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, she obtains a job as a governess for his sister's children. But Orion is convinced that Athena has a family heirloom that was stolen from his family. This is when everything gets interesting!! Orion and Athena feel an attraction but of course, Orion battles with himself because he thinks Athena is a thief! The banter between the two is really delightful and brought a smile to my face. Read to see how this entertaining story comes to a conclusion and be prepared to pick up the second book in this series! Well done Tabetha Waite!
September 8, 2018
4.5 ✨
I might harbour a teensy weensy crush on Orion Ashcroft, the lead character and the Earl of the novel who is really a badboy born in a different era from the modern badboys. Athena also managed to enchant me, and i pictured her as Sasha Alsburg. Reason ? I find both of them very 'royal' and classy.
The story revolves around theft, balls, friendship and obviously inability to stifle desire. The romance between Athena and Orion is kinda 'magnet-ish' and warm and it made me giggle.
Tabetha's book served as a portal to the charismatic world of the earl and i enjoyed it immensely. I flew through the pages and didn't even realize that i was coming to an end. But the good part ? You can still have sneek peeks of the earl's life in the other instalments of the series.
I might harbour a teensy weensy crush on Orion Ashcroft, the lead character and the Earl of the novel who is really a badboy born in a different era from the modern badboys. Athena also managed to enchant me, and i pictured her as Sasha Alsburg. Reason ? I find both of them very 'royal' and classy.
The story revolves around theft, balls, friendship and obviously inability to stifle desire. The romance between Athena and Orion is kinda 'magnet-ish' and warm and it made me giggle.
Tabetha's book served as a portal to the charismatic world of the earl and i enjoyed it immensely. I flew through the pages and didn't even realize that i was coming to an end. But the good part ? You can still have sneek peeks of the earl's life in the other instalments of the series.
September 1, 2021
What can I say to give this book the proper review? It's so good.. It has so much romance a lot of mystery, a lot of suspense and steam.. I can't say enough about this one.. I was captivated by the story from beginning to end.. I couldn't put it down for anything.. I definitely plan on reading the next book..
I received this as a gift from the author in exchange for an honest review
I received this as a gift from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 29, 2024
Ok really this book was absolutely ridiculous. It was so improbably and fantastical that I jsut can’t rate it higher than this.
The hero is an absolute idiot which just adds insult to injury.
The hero is an absolute idiot which just adds insult to injury.
February 5, 2017
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review.**
Romance, betrayal, conspiracy, and a missing fortune!
Athena has just learned some heartbreaking news. After the recent death of her father, his memory is being put to shame with rumors of gambling and the loss of her inheritance. To make matters worse, she is suspected as being involved in the disappearance of another family's heirloom. It's just too bad that she doesn't know she's a suspect.
Rion made a promise to his grandmother on her deathbed. A promise to recover the missing family jewel that disappeared in the hands of Athena's father. Since dead men can't talk, Rion goes to the next best source of information: the daughter. But in order to keep his plan a secret, he hires Athena as governess to his sister's children in hopes of keeping an eye on the woman until he can prove her guilt.
While Athena is grateful for a job, she isn't sure what to make of Rion, the lord who turns from hot to cold in an instant. Despite his charm, she won't let anything come between her and finding out the truth about her father. The sparks begin to fly between Athena and Rion which puts a kink in both of their plans.
For the first 30% or so of this book, I think I wore a permanent smile. I was well on the way to declaring this my favorite historical romance of all time. I loved the back and forth between our couple and their inability to avoid their attraction to each other. The chemistry was off the charts, the dialogue was witty and hilarious at times, and the mystery of the missing jewel and money were intriguing.
But even though the story was progressing nicely toward a happy ending, I realized I was only a third of the way through. I continued on and the romance got more complicated, the mystery more confusing, and the main characters started to lose their shine. I don't mind a bit of hot-and-cold between couples to boost the sexual tension but at some point enough is enough. It became an almost childish game between our couple and I wanted to pull my hair out.
This is one of those cases where I think the heavy plotline just overloaded the story. The characters were interesting enough without all of the excessive strife. The romance was spicy enough without the constant hot-and-cold stunts. The mystery would have been better with less kidnappings and escaping criminals. I could even forgive the crazy conspiracy revealed at the end had that been the only big twist in the book.
However, by the end, I thought the author had shoveled in everything she could to enhance the story. Unfortunately, I feel that sometimes less really is more. This could have been a simple case of over-ambitiousness. Yes, I know that isn't a real word. But you know what I mean.
The silver lining is that despite my gripes, I didn't hate the book and I haven't given up on this author. The way the story was told captivated me. I really did like her characters and the budding romance sizzled. I would love to see future installments be a bit more character-driven with less focus on the mystery and secondary plot threads.
In closing...
In all, still a good read and a series I will look forward to in the future. Three suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2017/01/review-tour-why-earl-is-after-girl-by.html
March 27, 2018
I did not finish this book, I tried and got to 49%, but when Rion mentioned Edgar Allen Poe and his book The Murders in the Rue Morgue - in a book that was set in 1819 - I had enough. The story is unbelievable without adding the aggravation of misused facts, the facts the author includes (Rolitos, Poe, etc) are all correct facts but not for 1819 - FYI Rolitos were from 1823 and Edgar Allen Poe wrote The Murders in the Rue Morgue in 1841
Oddly enough, there was not one title or formal address error - which is usually my biggest peeve in HR novels, so bravo for that!
Oddly enough, there was not one title or formal address error - which is usually my biggest peeve in HR novels, so bravo for that!
July 19, 2019
A very nice debut novel by Tabetha Waite. We have a bit of intrigue, a bit of a mystery, and a bit of danger all wrapped up in a Regency romance between an earl and a commoner -- the daughter of a jewelry shop owner. I enjoyed it.
April 7, 2018
What a Surprise !!!!" Why the Earl is After the Girl " by Tabetha Waite was . At 1st glance Frankly the title didnt work for me , the description looked predictable plus author was new but still thought would read .. well i m beyond Impressed & Happy to say dat i took a chance with this book ... WOW !!! SIMPLY WOW ..... Tabetha 3 cheers for u what a book. I LOVED EVERY SINGLE PAGE OF THIS BOOK ...
u ve done a wonderful job for it being ur debut book ...KUddos to the author for giving readers excellent story...
The book introduces us to Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford alais ( ROIN ) & Athena Hawthorne the daughter of a well known liked Jeweller...Roin believes Athena is a thief , hence immediately begins to ensnare her into his trap to find out what happened to his grandmother's jewelry. As she lives with the Earl's sister as the governess to her children, but eventually falls in love with her...
The story was full of Mystery. intrigue, romance and humor, sex ,sizzling chemistry . romance . beautiful emotions , through to the end. The pace of d story fast not one moment of boredom...the characters of both Roin -Athena strong , bold, beautiful, adorable ... The secondary characters in synch & necessary to d story ... I would like to read Roarke & Mara's story definitely...
It is a well-written, well-constructed story,well devloped, well scripted and an enjoyable read. The chemistry between the protagonists, Athena and Rion, is sizzling,hot ,steamy. There was a great plot twist at the end—completely unexpected & surprising ...
Well I strongly Recommend this book ...it is must & definite read ... I ve become a big big FAN of the author Tabetha ... even though it was my 1st book dat i ve read by Tabetha... After reading so many historical Regency Romance , this book was unique in its own domain ..Refreshing . A very talented author indeed... Pls keep up d good work & would definitely read all ur work if it is dis excellent ...U made my day ...
u ve done a wonderful job for it being ur debut book ...KUddos to the author for giving readers excellent story...
The book introduces us to Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford alais ( ROIN ) & Athena Hawthorne the daughter of a well known liked Jeweller...Roin believes Athena is a thief , hence immediately begins to ensnare her into his trap to find out what happened to his grandmother's jewelry. As she lives with the Earl's sister as the governess to her children, but eventually falls in love with her...
The story was full of Mystery. intrigue, romance and humor, sex ,sizzling chemistry . romance . beautiful emotions , through to the end. The pace of d story fast not one moment of boredom...the characters of both Roin -Athena strong , bold, beautiful, adorable ... The secondary characters in synch & necessary to d story ... I would like to read Roarke & Mara's story definitely...
It is a well-written, well-constructed story,well devloped, well scripted and an enjoyable read. The chemistry between the protagonists, Athena and Rion, is sizzling,hot ,steamy. There was a great plot twist at the end—completely unexpected & surprising ...
Well I strongly Recommend this book ...it is must & definite read ... I ve become a big big FAN of the author Tabetha ... even though it was my 1st book dat i ve read by Tabetha... After reading so many historical Regency Romance , this book was unique in its own domain ..Refreshing . A very talented author indeed... Pls keep up d good work & would definitely read all ur work if it is dis excellent ...U made my day ...
April 7, 2018
.. Tabetha 3 cheers for u what a book. I LOVED EVERY SINGLE PAGE OF THIS BOOK ...
u ve done a wonderful job for it being ur debut book ...KUddos to the author for giving readers excellent story...
The book introduces us to Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford alais ( ROIN ) & Athena Hawthorne the daughter of a well known liked Jeweller...Roin believes Athena is a thief , hence immediately begins to ensnare her into his trap to find out what happened to his grandmother's jewelry. As she lives with the Earl's sister as the governess to her children, but eventually falls in love with her...
The story was full of Mystery. intrigue, romance and humor, sex ,sizzling chemistry . romance . beautiful emotions , through to the end. The pace of d story fast not one moment of boredom...the characters of both Roin -Athena strong , bold, beautiful, adorable ... The secondary characters in synch & necessary to d story ... I would like to read Roarke & Mara's story definitely...
It is a well-written, well-constructed story,well devloped, well scripted and an enjoyable read. The chemistry between the protagonists, Athena and Rion, is sizzling,hot ,steamy. There was a great plot twist at the end—completely unexpected & surprising ...
Well I strongly Recommend this book ...it is must & definite read ... I ve become a big big FAN of the author Tabetha ... even though it was my 1st book dat i ve read by Tabetha... After reading so many historical Regency Romance , this book was unique in its own domain ..Refreshing . A very talented author indeed... Pls keep up d good work & would definitely read all ur work if it is dis excellent ...U made my day ...
u ve done a wonderful job for it being ur debut book ...KUddos to the author for giving readers excellent story...
The book introduces us to Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford alais ( ROIN ) & Athena Hawthorne the daughter of a well known liked Jeweller...Roin believes Athena is a thief , hence immediately begins to ensnare her into his trap to find out what happened to his grandmother's jewelry. As she lives with the Earl's sister as the governess to her children, but eventually falls in love with her...
The story was full of Mystery. intrigue, romance and humor, sex ,sizzling chemistry . romance . beautiful emotions , through to the end. The pace of d story fast not one moment of boredom...the characters of both Roin -Athena strong , bold, beautiful, adorable ... The secondary characters in synch & necessary to d story ... I would like to read Roarke & Mara's story definitely...
It is a well-written, well-constructed story,well devloped, well scripted and an enjoyable read. The chemistry between the protagonists, Athena and Rion, is sizzling,hot ,steamy. There was a great plot twist at the end—completely unexpected & surprising ...
Well I strongly Recommend this book ...it is must & definite read ... I ve become a big big FAN of the author Tabetha ... even though it was my 1st book dat i ve read by Tabetha... After reading so many historical Regency Romance , this book was unique in its own domain ..Refreshing . A very talented author indeed... Pls keep up d good work & would definitely read all ur work if it is dis excellent ...U made my day ...
April 16, 2017
Well-written, pacy and absorbing
"Why the Earl is after the Girl" by Tabetha Waite is a well-written, well-constructed story and an enjoyable read. The chemistry between the protagonists, Athena and Rion, is scorching hot. Their relationship is so tempestuous I was exhausted by the time they finally sorted themselves out and reached their HEA!
The plot reminded me of historical thrillers by Victorian writers like Wilkie Collins, and the wealth of secondary characters and descriptions of London gave the story a nice Dickensian feel. There was a great plot twist at the end—completely unexpected!
Ms. Waite's language is varied and never dull—she clearly has great skill as a writer. The book is well-paced and thunders away toward the end but it's possible the peril eclipses the romance in places. Rion shouldn't have needed to think he'd lost Athena twice before he was prepared to show his hand. I can't say more without spoiling the suspense, but I wanted to smack him round the head for his obtuseness! It shows the writer has drawn you in when you're silently yelling at the characters, so a job well done.
I don't think this is a book for the Regency expert, as more than a few anachronisms have snuck past the editors. However, the story will certainly delight those who enjoy a hot historical romance with a powerful hero, a courageous heroine, and some nail-biting action.
An excellent debut novel. I look forward to reading more from this author!
I received a copy of this book via ReadingAlley in return for an honest and unbiased review.
"Why the Earl is after the Girl" by Tabetha Waite is a well-written, well-constructed story and an enjoyable read. The chemistry between the protagonists, Athena and Rion, is scorching hot. Their relationship is so tempestuous I was exhausted by the time they finally sorted themselves out and reached their HEA!
The plot reminded me of historical thrillers by Victorian writers like Wilkie Collins, and the wealth of secondary characters and descriptions of London gave the story a nice Dickensian feel. There was a great plot twist at the end—completely unexpected!
Ms. Waite's language is varied and never dull—she clearly has great skill as a writer. The book is well-paced and thunders away toward the end but it's possible the peril eclipses the romance in places. Rion shouldn't have needed to think he'd lost Athena twice before he was prepared to show his hand. I can't say more without spoiling the suspense, but I wanted to smack him round the head for his obtuseness! It shows the writer has drawn you in when you're silently yelling at the characters, so a job well done.
I don't think this is a book for the Regency expert, as more than a few anachronisms have snuck past the editors. However, the story will certainly delight those who enjoy a hot historical romance with a powerful hero, a courageous heroine, and some nail-biting action.
An excellent debut novel. I look forward to reading more from this author!
I received a copy of this book via ReadingAlley in return for an honest and unbiased review.
April 8, 2018
Why the Earl is After the Girl by Tabetha Waite is book One in the "Ways of Love" series. This is the story of Athena Hawthorne and Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford.
Athena has lost everything after her father's death and she is out to find out what really happened.
Orion is out to find out what happen to a family jewel that is missing and he thinks Athena is the one to blame. Sitting Athena up in his sister's home to watch her so he can catch her.
Really enjoyed this book! Will look for more books from this author!
Athena has lost everything after her father's death and she is out to find out what really happened.
Orion is out to find out what happen to a family jewel that is missing and he thinks Athena is the one to blame. Sitting Athena up in his sister's home to watch her so he can catch her.
Really enjoyed this book! Will look for more books from this author!
January 23, 2019
Excellent story full of suspense and mystery. The characters are entertaining as well as likeable. My only issue was refences made that didn't exist yet. Poe was reference in 1819 but not written til 1841. Makes it hard to enjoy a story when the FACTS used are false. Other than that it was a great story
February 18, 2018
The first book in the Ways of Love Series starts the twists and turns that leads the fates of all it touches. They first start with Athena's fate which brings her into the arms of the Earl of Rockford after her father's death. The Earl immediately begins to ensnare her into his trap to find out what happened to his grandmother's jewelry. As she lives with the Earl's sister as the governess to her children, the bonds that form are touching which drew me in further.
The writings of the ton, gentry, ways of the time were perfect and hooked me right in. So well written that I actually cried three times during Athena's moving moments through love, lust, anger, and fear. The lust-filled times were the right amount of heat; ravished, loved, seduced, wanting more.
The attractions lead to violence and threatening moments filled with danger for Athena quite a few times as she delves further into the mystery of her inheritance, or lack thereof. The secondary characters throughout the story are written just as well and truly make this a well-rounded read. Beautifully written historical romance that sets the stage perfectly for the rest of the series. Very thrilled to have received this debut novel as part of a book tour for the third in the series.
The writings of the ton, gentry, ways of the time were perfect and hooked me right in. So well written that I actually cried three times during Athena's moving moments through love, lust, anger, and fear. The lust-filled times were the right amount of heat; ravished, loved, seduced, wanting more.
The attractions lead to violence and threatening moments filled with danger for Athena quite a few times as she delves further into the mystery of her inheritance, or lack thereof. The secondary characters throughout the story are written just as well and truly make this a well-rounded read. Beautifully written historical romance that sets the stage perfectly for the rest of the series. Very thrilled to have received this debut novel as part of a book tour for the third in the series.
September 25, 2021
For the first time I encountered with this book such lax proofreading that my understanding and flow of reading suffered. So distracting!
Nonetheless I enjoyed the story line very much. Plenty of action and mysterious goings-on kept the pace moving nicely. Sexual encounters in this story occur outside of commitment and occasionally begin aggressively.
While I liked Athena and sympathized with her circumstances, I never warmed much to Rion because he seemed to be such a "user" and also seemed an aggressive reactor when challenged or thwarted by people or circumstance. I was drawn most to the warmth and voices of reason written into secondary characters, especially Rion's sister, Cassie, and his friend, Lord Eversleigh.
In all honesty, I would rate this book 3.5. I recommend this book to historical romance readers who like kind and compassionate commoner heroines and strong, aggressive, lusty peer heroes.
Nonetheless I enjoyed the story line very much. Plenty of action and mysterious goings-on kept the pace moving nicely. Sexual encounters in this story occur outside of commitment and occasionally begin aggressively.
While I liked Athena and sympathized with her circumstances, I never warmed much to Rion because he seemed to be such a "user" and also seemed an aggressive reactor when challenged or thwarted by people or circumstance. I was drawn most to the warmth and voices of reason written into secondary characters, especially Rion's sister, Cassie, and his friend, Lord Eversleigh.
In all honesty, I would rate this book 3.5. I recommend this book to historical romance readers who like kind and compassionate commoner heroines and strong, aggressive, lusty peer heroes.
July 19, 2016
This is an entertaining Regency tale that includes the mysterious disappearance of a family jewel, dangerous encounters with members of the lower class and the ton alike, and an unlikely romance between an earl and the girl he suspects of being a thief. The mystery kept me turning the pages, and the romance was sizzling, as well.
While there were a few anachronisms in the dialogue, I enjoyed the descriptions of life among the upper class as well as the working class people. The historical details really added to the story.
The next story is set up at the end of this book, so I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
While there were a few anachronisms in the dialogue, I enjoyed the descriptions of life among the upper class as well as the working class people. The historical details really added to the story.
The next story is set up at the end of this book, so I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
October 1, 2024
Why the Earl is After the Girl by Tabetha Waite is book one of her Ways of Love Series. I found this book to be very exhilarating. It has mystery, danger, humor and of course wonderful romance. The characters are well developed without being overly complicated. I liked the heroine Athena Hawthorne. She is very relatable. Orion Ashcroft the Earl of Rockford is at times almost comical in his devotion. This story has twists and turns that I didn’t expect. It kept me up late just wanting to find out how it turned out. Looking forward to more by Ms Waite.
November 8, 2017
This regency novel is filled with passion, lies and mystery.
Read full review in the 2017 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2017 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 30, 2017
ARC for Romance Reviews Magazine:
Well I must say for a debut novel Ms Waite painted the heroine to the canvas with in depth emotional pull and I liked and felt for Athena. Sympathy poured forth (from me that is) while Athena Hawthorne hears of her fate within a solicitor’s office. Could life be more traumatic than the death of a father and to learn there is no legacy of worth from a once thriving business, poor Athena is utterly stunned by it all.
In the event of kindness from a stranger, which gives hope for a workable life one day, a few days later the strange circumstances surrounding the job places Athena into an emotional pit of heaven and hell wrapped up in one man, the Earl of Rockford. Of course Athena falls hopelessly loves struck with burning desire little knowing the earl’s thoughts of tumbling the newly appointed governess (to his niece and nephew) has caused him a good deal of discomfort until the more his eyes glitter with devilry soon Rion and Athena lose themselves in lustful thoughts and eventual actions, while every crime known to the darker side of London streets start striking with menacing force. Here the repetitive abduction theme took some believing, while the rest of the story had me turning the pages to see when Rion would hump Athena again and would he stop being a mindless prat, and would she fall pregnant. So obsessed did I become with the likelihood of pregnancy the criminal proceedings paled alongside my thinking Rion would be forced into marriage with Athena, and I prayed his sister would stand behind him with a pistol held to his head. It doesn’t end that way and I did like the sub characters a great deal. All in all I enjoyed Athena's and Rion's story a a romantic tale with danger and mystery.
I do have a few quibbles. The story setting is Regency England 1819 and there’s reference to a novel by Charles Dickens which set alarm bells ringing. Dickens was born in 1812 and in 1819 Charles Dickens was 7yrs old and had yet to write his first published paper let alone a novel. While this may appear a small criticism it does point to lack of research by the author, it also shames an incompetent editor. Worse it implies the novel started out as a Victorian novel set after 1836 when Dickens published his first novel The Pickwick Papers. A few Americanisms didn’t help matters in recommending this as a Regency set read, while readers who care not a bean about historical accuracy will enjoy this book for what it is - a fun read.
April 12, 2017
Why the Earl is After the Girl by Tabetha Waite is an amazing debut Regency Romance. Book #1 in what promises to be an intriguing series, "Ways of Love".
Book 1 is the story of Athena, and Rion, a jewelers daughter and an Earl. A commoner and nobility, mixing to learn the truth of the disappearance of an inheritance and a priceless heirloom.
Well written with well-developed, and engaging characters. The plot is as captivating as intriguing. Filled with mystery, suspense, passion, intrigue, and the possibility of a forever kind of love. I was glued to the pages from the first couple of sentences. I read this story in one setting, just had to finish and learn the truth.
A story with betrayal, romance, revenge, the prospect of white slavery, conspiracy, sensual tension, surprises, and twists and turns. The story offers readers so much, it will capture your heart and put a smile on your face. Just let me say, more than one kidnapping, would have done me in, but Tabetha, was determined to learn the truth, of why her well-known, and beloved father's name had been tarnished and she left penniless. Rion, was determined to keep his promise he made to his beloved grandmother, on her death bed, to find her missing heirloom. Together Rion and Athena embark on a journey of discovery, sexy encounters, danger and finding a HEA.
Debut author, Tabetha Waite, is an author to watch for in the Regency genre. I was very impressed with her writing style, her characterizations, and her vivid descriptions. A job well done, Tabetha Waite! I look forward to her next exciting adventure, in the "Ways of Love" series. A must read for any and all historical Regency fans. Bravo, Ms. Waite!!
I received a complimentary copy.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
Book 1 is the story of Athena, and Rion, a jewelers daughter and an Earl. A commoner and nobility, mixing to learn the truth of the disappearance of an inheritance and a priceless heirloom.
Well written with well-developed, and engaging characters. The plot is as captivating as intriguing. Filled with mystery, suspense, passion, intrigue, and the possibility of a forever kind of love. I was glued to the pages from the first couple of sentences. I read this story in one setting, just had to finish and learn the truth.
A story with betrayal, romance, revenge, the prospect of white slavery, conspiracy, sensual tension, surprises, and twists and turns. The story offers readers so much, it will capture your heart and put a smile on your face. Just let me say, more than one kidnapping, would have done me in, but Tabetha, was determined to learn the truth, of why her well-known, and beloved father's name had been tarnished and she left penniless. Rion, was determined to keep his promise he made to his beloved grandmother, on her death bed, to find her missing heirloom. Together Rion and Athena embark on a journey of discovery, sexy encounters, danger and finding a HEA.
Debut author, Tabetha Waite, is an author to watch for in the Regency genre. I was very impressed with her writing style, her characterizations, and her vivid descriptions. A job well done, Tabetha Waite! I look forward to her next exciting adventure, in the "Ways of Love" series. A must read for any and all historical Regency fans. Bravo, Ms. Waite!!
I received a complimentary copy.
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
July 1, 2018
Miss Athena Hawthorne, the daughter of a celebrated jeweler, is left dismayed when her father's lawyer tells her there is no money for her inheritance because it was gambled away. She would not believe that was true, and is determined to find out who has cheated her.
Orian Ashcroft, Earl of Rockford promised his grandmother he would reclaim an important family heirloom. He knows where it was last seen, but can't prove who has it.
This is a lovely mystery with danger in the background for our sensible and courageous heroine. Someone is out to do her serious harm.
Our hero had to take responsibility far too young, that has made him wary of allowing his emotions out.
This is obviously part of a series of books than can be read alone, but are better read in order. I can't wait to read the next book even though I know, from this story, who the main characters will be.
Thoroughly enjoyable reading.
Orian Ashcroft, Earl of Rockford promised his grandmother he would reclaim an important family heirloom. He knows where it was last seen, but can't prove who has it.
This is a lovely mystery with danger in the background for our sensible and courageous heroine. Someone is out to do her serious harm.
Our hero had to take responsibility far too young, that has made him wary of allowing his emotions out.
This is obviously part of a series of books than can be read alone, but are better read in order. I can't wait to read the next book even though I know, from this story, who the main characters will be.
Thoroughly enjoyable reading.
April 10, 2018
This is an outstanding book from a new Author! It is the story of a jewelry maker, and his daughter. Unfortunately, he dies, leaving her destitute! How are Earth did that happen? He was very successful, made beautiful works of art, for the Aristocracy, including Prinny! What happened to her inheritance, and where was she going to live, with only two pounds, to her name? As she is leaving the lawyers office, extremely distressed, she runs straight into the most handsome man, that she has ever laid eyes on! Finding out her name, he gives her a card, with an address on it, he knows someone who needs a Governess. To begin with, she should have thought about how convenient it was , to run into someone who could help her, just when she was in such desperate need! The story just gets better, danger, romance, heartbreaking, a Cinderella tale!
I highly recommend! Thanks! Enjoy!
Carolintallahassee.com
I highly recommend! Thanks! Enjoy!
Carolintallahassee.com
April 20, 2018
The first book in the "Ways of Love" series by Tabetha Waite is a charming and captivating naughty/mystery/love story focusing on Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Bedford and Athena Hawthorne, a jeweller's daughter. Athena has lost everything on the death of her father. Orion, the Earl of Bedford is searching for a lost family jewel that he thinks Athena may have knowledge of. And so the story begins!
For history buffs, there are a few historical inaccuracies for that time period, hence the four stars.
Other than that, the plot is interesting, the story well written, and there is good dialogue between the main and supporting characters, and the Author has given good detailed description of various scenes and settings. There is an interesting surprising twist to the ending.
I received a free copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For history buffs, there are a few historical inaccuracies for that time period, hence the four stars.
Other than that, the plot is interesting, the story well written, and there is good dialogue between the main and supporting characters, and the Author has given good detailed description of various scenes and settings. There is an interesting surprising twist to the ending.
I received a free copy via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2018
Athena’s father is a renowned jeweler who is sought after by the highest in London but when he passes away his lawyer tells her that her father owed numerous gamble debts and therefore his shop along with everything else must be sold. Left with nothing she seeks employment and so she bumps into Orion Ashcroft the Earl of Rockford where he offers her a job with his sister as a governess for her children. Little did she know this was all planned by Orion so he can keep a eye on her because he thinks she has stolen a rare piece of jewelry that belonged to his now deceased grandmother. He never intended to be attracted to the little theft but his sister thinks she is innocent and her children love her as does the rest of the household. When he finally opens his eyes he sees there is indeed some mystery to be solved. Can they uncover who is behind the missing jewelry along with the money?
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.
March 2, 2018
An enjoyable read where vengeance can turn to love. Orion and Athena are interesting characters. I'd love to see a backstory on how Cassie and Gregory ended up together.
There's suspense, intrigue, hilarity....and the ending fed perfectly into a second book.
The one major complaint I had was that every time it looks like they're going to finally realize the other's feelings; things went pear shaped.
There's suspense, intrigue, hilarity....and the ending fed perfectly into a second book.
The one major complaint I had was that every time it looks like they're going to finally realize the other's feelings; things went pear shaped.
April 3, 2018
While Miss Athena Hawthorne was in a quest for justice, she was compromising not only her life but her heart. Would she survive? Orion Ashcroft, Earl of Rockford, had a plan to get back his grandmother’s stolen brooch, but little he knew that it would be his fall. Two strong and stubborn characters with their mind set on discovering the culprits of the wrongdoings. Enjoyed the suspense, the intrigue, the mystery, the strong emotions, the romance and heated sex in the exciting plot development. Liked Athena’s smart, decided and passionate character. Interesting secondary characters that added to the action and the tidbit about Roarke Garrott, Viscount Eversleigh, left me thinking eager for his story.
April 7, 2018
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Loved, loved, loved this book. It had me breathless in anticipation of what would happen next. The story and the plot was well written and executed. The characters had depth and personality. This was about Athena Hawthorn whose father passed away and according to the solicitor was left penniless. In a fateful meeting she bumped into Lord Orion Ashcroft, Earl of Rockford and thus Athena's life was changed forever more. This was an excellent and exciting book to read. I highly recommend this book.
April 9, 2018
When I started this book, I thought, same old story line but it wasn't. Tabetha Waite took this story in innovative ways. It was a great read. The only reason there aren't 5 stars is that there were a couple of historical inaccuracies that bothered me. But even with that, it is a really good read. I highly recommend this book. I am looking forward to more from this author. It is refreshing to read a new author with terrific storylines.
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.
March 26, 2019
This book is the first in the "Ways of Love" series, and what a beginning it is!
Filled with mystery, peril, and steamy romance, the story of Athena and Rion is a great start to a series. The secondary characters are interesting, and the author does an excellent job of weaving their backstories in... so much so, that now I have to buy their books to find out what happened to them! I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Athena and Rion, and I'm definitely going to be reading more from this author.
Filled with mystery, peril, and steamy romance, the story of Athena and Rion is a great start to a series. The secondary characters are interesting, and the author does an excellent job of weaving their backstories in... so much so, that now I have to buy their books to find out what happened to them! I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Athena and Rion, and I'm definitely going to be reading more from this author.
July 7, 2018
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley and the publishers for an honest review.
This story was a delightful read with many surprises along the way.
The story begins with the heroine Athena Hawthorne learning that upon her father's death that she has been left destitute. She accuses the solicitor of being wrong about her father being a secret gambler and stalks off. Enter our Hero, Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, who has set himself a mission to find a missing brooch, which belonged to his grandmother. He believes that Athena's father, who was the jeweller who was supposed to have mended the broken brooch. The attraction of the hero and heroine is almost immediate and the mystery of the lose of her father's estate is solved with attacks on Athena is solved at a very good pacing throughout the book. There is a mystery lady who appears to aid Athena and a friend of the Hero, Lord Eversleigh, who seems to be pining for a lost love, that I found intriguing. I am sure this is the groundwork for the next book. I do hope so.
I will be looking forward to Tabetha Waite's next book as I like her style of getting the story across to the reader.
This story was a delightful read with many surprises along the way.
The story begins with the heroine Athena Hawthorne learning that upon her father's death that she has been left destitute. She accuses the solicitor of being wrong about her father being a secret gambler and stalks off. Enter our Hero, Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, who has set himself a mission to find a missing brooch, which belonged to his grandmother. He believes that Athena's father, who was the jeweller who was supposed to have mended the broken brooch. The attraction of the hero and heroine is almost immediate and the mystery of the lose of her father's estate is solved with attacks on Athena is solved at a very good pacing throughout the book. There is a mystery lady who appears to aid Athena and a friend of the Hero, Lord Eversleigh, who seems to be pining for a lost love, that I found intriguing. I am sure this is the groundwork for the next book. I do hope so.
I will be looking forward to Tabetha Waite's next book as I like her style of getting the story across to the reader.
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