Wicked Earl Seeks Proper Heiress: The Husband Hunters Club (The Husband Hunters Club Series Book 5)

The latest in Sara Bennett's Husband Hunter Club, Wicked Earl Seeks Proper Heiress is not her greatest in the series. It's not a terrible novel but there is something lacking in this story, it's a combination of chemistry between the leads and character development.Rufus Blainey, the Earl of Southbrook (admittedly I was not overly fond of the name Rufus) has inherited a Castle with no money thanks to his spendthrift family. He and his son and eccentric uncle are all that is left of the family. Rufus's uncle encourages him to marry for money since it seems to be the only solution to their problems.Heiress Lady Averill Martindale, has always been fascinated by Rufus and when he comes to her rescue in a gaming Hell she is even more infatuated with the Earl. Averill though feels she cannot marry until she locates her half sister and her search leads to nefarious places. Rufus, who is good at finding people, agrees to assist her in this endeavor.At first the leads are busy in the search for Averill's sister and investigating some problems at the home Averill sponsors for prostitutes. Rufus truly likes Averill and is rightfully worried for her safety. Their conversations are centered around the home and her sister for a goodly portion of this book.It isn't until the middle portion of this story that the leads discuss more personal issues. Rufus has a sweet son and he is well liked by Averill. Rufus supposedly has a reputation as a wicked aristocrat but it is never evident in this story, never. This is a considerate, thoughtful and overall upstanding citizen who worries about what people think of him. I just never bought that this man was in any way wicked. He wrestles with his conscious (should he tell Averill that he needs her money or keep quiet)? These are not the musings of a rake.Averill is stubborn and brave, this combination can make her impetuous and this occurs a few times in the story. She is very loyal to family. She is one of those heroines who is nice but not outstanding. Averill spends much of her time thinking Rufus is the one for her but takes a long time to act on her feelings.I felt this couple had a great friendship but the romance was a little too uneven, kind of like a car that gets revved up only to stall a little later. The leads second guess themselves too much and this dampened their chemistry. I did not feel any overwhelming passion existed between them.

This book was OK - I was not really impressed. I know Sara Bennett can write a better book than this. In fact I am having a hard time believing the same author who wrote The Lily and The Sword actually wrote this book.That aside I really liked Rufus - I think the whole "wicked earl" thing was stupid and bordering on unbelievable. Rufus was a kind man, a forgiving nephew, a loving generous father and a loyal friend. What more do you want in a hero?Averil on the other hand was a twit - she was self centered and self absorbed. She had a quick temper and felt the need to "fix" everyone. I really wanted to like her - but I just didn't (I didn't hate her - she just rubbed me the wrong way)I think the main problem I had with the book was there was just so much going on - but nothing was really focused on. It just didn't work for me.I would not read this book again - but I don't regret the time I spent reading it. It was OK - but it could have been better. My suggestion would be pass on this book (Unless you read the whole series and have to read Averil's story) and read The Lily & The Sword instead.

In spite of that pronouncement from the wastrel of an Uncle, our hero will endure you to his generous heart immediately. He takes care of those he loves, and since his ancestor's are spendthrift gamblers, (honestly, did the aristocracy have nothing better to do with their time but play cards?) he is forced with the unpalatable decision to marry for money. Only one problem with that plan. Averil is not like other simpering debutantes. She works with a charity called the Home for Distressed Women and has an unwavering amount of integrity. Rufus is at a loss what to do with her, being unwilling to put her in the category of most women. Her money becomes an irritant in that he is falling in love with her and does not wish her to think he wants to marry her for her money. This book is a treasure and definitely makes me want to read others by Ms. Bennett. It is written with wit and style. It's a keeper.

I have read this story before and enjoyed it even then. The story was well written thus the story line was easy to follow. The author drew the reader in and allowed us to experience her characters many emotions. The story had intrigue, suspense, betrayal, danger, excitement, and romance.

Great book.

loved it