Review: How to Be a Wallflower

How to Be a Wallflower by Eloisa James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This novel was a charming ( and steamy) romance with quite a bit of humor. I was a bit shocked, considering not too many historical romance writers add humor to their works. I can compare this particular book to some of those by author Katie MacAlister's, Noble Intentions  for one. Perhaps How to Be a Wallflower is far less slapstick but funny nonetheless.

Take one female owner of Lewis Commodes and one newly arrive American of the Astor family (Yes, THOSE Astor's), throw them together a bit accidentally, let them make a bet, and see sparks fly. Oh, and did I mention that Miss Cleopatra Lewis, who is soon to be launched in society has sworn never to marry and decides that she must remain a wallflower?

A comedy of (minor) errors, and shocking intentions, that I thoroughly enjoyed.

*ARC Supplied by the publisher Avon, NetGalley, and the author.

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SYNOPSIS: "From New York Times bestseller Eloisa James, a new Regency-set novel in which a heiress with the goal of being a wallflower engages a rugged American in a scorchingly sensual, witty wager that tests whether clothing does indeed make the man—or the wallflower!

Miss Cleopatra Lewis is about to be launched in society by her aristocratic grandfather. But since she has no intention of marrying, she visits a costume emporium specifically to order unflattering dresses guaranteed to put off any prospective suitors.

Powerful and charismatic Jacob Astor Addison is in London, acquiring businesses to add to his theatrical holdings in America—as well as buying an emerald for a young lady back in Boston. He's furious when a she-devil masquerading as an English lady steals Quimby's Costume Emporium from under his nose.

Jake strikes a devil's bargain, offering to design her “wallflower wardrobe” and giving Cleo the chance to design his. Cleo can't resist the fun of clothing the rough-hewn American in feathers and flowers. And somehow in the middle of their lively competition, Jake becomes her closest friend.

It isn't until Cleo becomes the toast of all society that Jake realizes she's stolen his fiercely guarded heart. But unlike the noblemen at her feet, he doesn't belong in her refined and cultured world.

Caught between the demands of honor and desire, Jake would give up everything to be with the woman he loves—if she'll have him!"