4★ for the characters
3★ for the plotting and scheming
4★+ for the sex scenes
.
I'm not used to reading historical romances, so that might have tarnished the experience, but whenever the Earl had to get on with his business for the crown I was pretty much bored to sleep.
I did like some scenes though, especially the ones where the plotting against a blackmailing ring was led by the Earl in question AND his friends (hilarious) and when the Earl and Amanda were bound together, and the way they overcame their fears, together