THE EARL I ADORE is Book two in Erin Knightley's Prelude to a Kiss series. Fairly early on in THE EARL I ADORE, it's made clear to the reader that there is some reason that the Earl of Evansleigh and his sister steer clear of romantic entanglements and refuse to marry. However, the reason is not revealed until much later in the book. I think having this information kept from the reader for so long puts the reader on somewhat equal footing with the heroine, since it's information she's not aware of either.

THE EARL I ADORE is a romance in which the heroine needs to marry and marry well very quickly, while the hero has quite definite plans to never marry. Blissfully unaware of the quandary the other person faces, there is a wonderful friendship that develops between the two. Sophie and Evan are both likable characters and their similar interests lead to an easy rapport. As I read, I found myself cheering for Sophie as she's a very sympathetic character. The pressure put on her by her mercenary mother is balanced by the support she gets from her friends. I like the strong friendships between Sophie, May, and Charity. After reading THE EARL I ADORE, I'm eager to read the previous book - which is focused on Charity - and look forward to reading May's story in the future.

Although some of the more serious moments in THE EARL I ADORE brought me to tears, there are enough lighter moments to balance the story out. Evan's sister Julia is an interesting character and something of an enigma. The subplot involving Julia is interesting without taking too much of the focus off Sophie and Evan's romance.

THE EARL I ADORE is full of the romantic longing and raw emotion that I adore. The characters are interesting and have depth. The ending is extremely satisfying and fits the characters and the story. I hope to see some of the supporting characters, like Mr. Wright, in stories of their own. I look forward to the next installment in this Prelude to a Kiss series by Erin Knightley.

Book Summary

Sophie Wembley is about to discover two hard truths: When planning a rushed betrothal, one must not be picky; and when the perfect earl happens by, one must not be shy.

After receiving word that her sister has eloped, even ever-optimistic Sophie has trouble staying positive. She needs to secure her future before the scandal destroys her prospects, although she doesn’t relish the idea of a hasty marriage. But her longtime crush has just shown up for the summer festival in Bath. He may be the key to avoiding disgrace and getting a happily ever after - if she can bring herself to pursue him.

John “Evan” Fairfax, Earl of Evansleigh, is one of the most popular bachelors in the ton. However, his easygoing ways hide a dark past he’s determined to keep secret. Evan has always kept acquaintances at arm’s length for self-preservation, but there’s something irresistible about Sophie…and her seductive charms may well sway the confirmed bachelor to seize a chance at love.