Loving the Earl by Sharon Cullen

After the death of her physically and emotionally abusive husband, Claire Hartford is ready for an adventure. She is headed to Italy to find herself an Italian lover.  Trying to get out from under the careful watch of her brother, she schedules her departure on a ship not in his fleet. Unfortunately for her, Claire's brother has found out and instead of stopping her, he has sent his best friend to keep an eye on her.

Nathan Ferguson will do anything for his best friend, even watch over his wayward sister. He manages to tag along with Claire without her knowing that he is keeping an eye out for her.

Because of one mishap after another, Nathan and Claire end up traveling to Italy together.  Nathan is after some answers to his father's death and that brings some trouble to their door.

Of course during their journey, they start to feel an attraction to each other.  Claire gets her lover, but he is not Italian. Will she seek out another when they reach their destination? How will Claire feel when she finds out that Nathan was looking out for her at the request of her brother?



This is the second book that I have read by Sharon Cullen and once again I absolutely loved it!
Although it is not necessary to have read the previous book before starting this one, it does kind of give you insight into how Claire's marriage has changed her. I love when historical novels take me away from England. It allows me to "visit" other places in Europe.  The novel also had the added mystery of the death of Nathan's father. He had always been told it had been an accident, but a letter he has received indicates otherwise. This bit of mystery, just adds that something extra to the story and really makes it an excellent book.

You can get this book at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and iTunes.