How to Capture a Countess

Duchess Diaries, Book 1

By: Karen Hawkins

Narrated by: Alison Larkin

Urged by her favorite nephew, the intimidating Duchess of Roxburghe agrees to transform a thorny Scottish rose into a lovely bloom. But even she isn't prepared for fiery Rose Balfour.

At 17, Rose fell wildly in love with Lord Alton Sinclair, known as Lord Sin for his wicked ways. Stung by his indifference, the starry-eyed girl tried to win an illicit kiss, but then panicked and pushed the notorious rakehell into a fountain. Leaving Lord Sin floating among the lily pads to the mocking laughter of his peers, Rose escaped back to the obscurity of the Scottish countryside.

Six years later, Sin convinces his aunt, the Duchess of Roxburghe, to invite Rose to her annual house party, where he plans to get revenge by making Rose the laughingstock of polite society. To his astonishment, he finds she has become an alluring woman who threatens to turn the tables on his nefarious plans. Thus Sin and Rose begin an epic battle of the sexes that becomes more passionate at every turn. Eventually, one will have to surrender...but to vengeance? Or to love's deepest passion?

©2012 Karen Hawkins (P)2013 Tantor

Critic reviews

"A delightful, sprightly romp is what Hawkins does best, and when she sets her witty tale in Scotland and adds a charming castle and an engaging cast of characters, [listeners] have the beginning of an appealing new series." ( RT Book Reviews)

Another winner for Karen Hawkins

Delightful. Cute. Humorous. Sin and Rose remind me of the characters in a Spencer Tracy/Katherine Hepburn movie - always sparring and trying to outdo the other. I laughed out loud more than once. I admit it was predictable but that doesn't matter; it was an enjoyable story as only Karen Hawkins can write. I look forward to more of this series.

The narration was pleasant and matched the story.

Definite repeat listen

As always, Karen Hawkins exceeds your expectations with a passionate romp that is fun fresh and original. Well worth it!

Fantastic!

I love the strong characters and intelligent women Karen always manages to bring to life. Her wit along with the beautiful scenery and history makes this series my favorite in the genre.

Charming

Beautifully read by Alison Larkin, this amusing romp was just the delight I sought after a string of excellent but somber books.

Perfect

This held my attention and was very entertaining it kept me smiling. Characters were well matched