Preview
  • The Theory of Earls

  • The Beautiful Barringtons, Book 1
  • By: Kathleen Ayers
  • Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman
  • Length: 8 hrs and 12 mins
  • 4.4 out of 5 stars (27 ratings)

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The Theory of Earls

By: Kathleen Ayers
Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman
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Publisher's summary

“Chemise. Stockings. Piano.”

Three words, uttered by the beautifully rakish Lord Welles, leave Margaret Lainscott speechless. His improper request, that she play the piano for him in her…underthings, is as shocking as it is titillating. Margaret should never have asked his help in reintroducing her to Lord Carstairs. But his friend meets all of Margaret’s criteria for a husband: passably attractive, of below-average intelligence, and possessed of an obsessive outdoor hobby which will leave her free to pursue her own life.

Welles is one of London’s most committed bachelors, known for his notorious dealings with women and his part ownership of one of London’s pleasure clubs. He’s long admired Miss Lainscott’s unrestrained passion at the piano, a passion he suspects is not reserved only for her music. Welles is certain Miss Lainscott will not entertain his improper request despite the attraction burning between them.

A young lady such as Miss Lainscott would never ruin herself willingly.

And Welles? Nothing would make him compromise his heart…until a duet with a passionate pianist changes his mind.

The Theory of Earls is a steamy, sexy historical romance with a guaranteed happily ever after and the first in a new series, The Beautiful Barringtons, by Kathleen Ayers.

©2020 Kathleen Ayers (P)2022 Kathleen Ayers
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What listeners say about The Theory of Earls

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Great romance

I typically prefer slightly more frivolous romances but this was a nice book and I would definitely reach out for more work by this author. The narrator did a great job as well, which is almost more important than the story itself. It doesn't matter how good a book is if I can't stand the sound of someone's voice.

I agree with assertions that the story cut off too soon. I was thoroughly engrossed in this story and wish that I had more time with Tony and Maggie. Realistically, I'd rather want more than be dragged through too much so this is more of an observation than a complaint.

While the plot was a little more serious than the ones I usually go for, romance was the point and it wasn't a dark tortured Mary Ballogh tale that, for me, detracts from the warm and fuzzies that I hope finishing a good romance will leave me with.

I wish there was a touch more spice but there was enough and honestly probably plenty for most people. I very much enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters. I also liked that our rake was a little tortured but not a self flagellating mess. Anyway, lovely book and would recommend.

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