Title: The Harlot Countess
Author: Joanna Shupe
First published April 28, 2015
333 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781420135541 (ISBN10: 1420135546)
Rating: 3.73
Overview
Lady Margaret Hawkins, or Maggie as she is known, is a political cartoonist with a secret. Under the male pseudonym of Lemarc, she has gained notoriety for her sharp wit and biting satire.
Her favorite target? None other than Simon Barrett, Earl of Winchester, a former love interest who betrayed her years ago with a vicious rumor.
Maggie is known as the Half-Irish Harlot, a woman to be feared and reviled. But when new information comes to light, Maggie realizes that she may have been wrong about Simon all along.
As their paths cross once again, Maggie must decide whether to hold onto her anger or take a chance on love. Can she trust Simon with her heart, or is he just another target for her pen?
The Harlot Countess is a tale of love, betrayal, and redemption that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.
About the Author
Are you a fan of historical fiction? If so, sign up for Joanna Shupe’s newsletter and receive a free digital copy of The Knickerbocker Bride.
As a USA Today bestselling author, Shupe’s books have been recognized on several “best of” lists by reputable publications such as Publishers Weekly, The Washington Post, and Kirkus Reviews. By subscribing to her newsletter, you’ll also be the first to know about her new releases and any discounts.
Shupe currently resides in New Jersey with her two daughters and husband.
Editoral Review
Joanna Shupes The Harlot Countess is a captivating historical novel that will transport readers to 18th century London, filled with scandal, intrigue, and passion. As an accomplished author of several historical romance novels, including A Daring Arrangement and The Rogue of Fifth Avenue, Shupe delivers another compelling tale of romance, lust, and danger.
In this novel, readers follow the story of Lady Sophia Barnes, a rebellious and independent woman with a past shrouded in scandal, who is determined to make a new life for herself by seducing and marrying the Earl of Camden. Sophia is willing to do whatever it takes to secure her future, including using her body as a bargaining chip.
But when her plan encounters unexpected twists and turns, Sophia must navigate the treacherous waters of London’s upper class society to protect her heart, her reputation, and her newfound independence. The story is set in the glittering and glamorous world of 18th century London, where the characters are guided by a strict code of social conduct and where scandal and gossip can make or break reputations.
Shupe skillfully captures the essence of this era, creating a world that is both fascinating and dangerous. The Harlot Countess offers a fresh perspective on the historical romance genre, exploring themes that are relevant to contemporary issues, such as women’s rights, gender roles, and class inequality.
The characters are complex, nuanced, and relatable, their struggles and desires reflecting the dilemmas of our own time. Shupes writing is exquisite, with richly detailed scenes and evocative descriptions that bring the story to life.
The pacing is perfect, with suspenseful plot twists and turns that will keep readers on edge until the very end. One of the strengths of The Harlot Countess is its portrayal of Lady Sophia, a strong-willed woman who defies the social norms of her time.
Sophia is a complex character, with a past that haunts her and a determination to break free from it. Through her journey, readers will witness her growth and transformation, as she learns to trust herself and her own desires.
The Harlot Countess does have some limitations, however. While the plot is engaging and unpredictable, some of the secondary characters lack depth and development, and the ending feels somewhat rushed.
Overall, The Harlot Countess is a must-read for fans of historical romance and anyone who loves a good tale of passion, intrigue, and rebellion. With its richly detailed setting, captivating characters, and thought-provoking themes, The Harlot Countess is a gem of a book that will leave readers wanting more.
Rating: 4/5 stars. The Harlot Countess is a great addition to the historical romance genre, with its fresh perspective, compelling characters, and evocative writing.
While it has some limitations, it is a book that is sure to delight and satisfy readers who love a good historical romance.
