How to Be a Wallflower
Series: Would-Be Wallflowers #1
Author: Eloisa James
Published April 28th 2022 by Piatkus/March 29th 2022 by Avon

Goodreads 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!
Goodreads

Review
Miss Cleopatra Lewis may be the granddaughter of a Marquess, but she is the heiress and owner of a company who make and sell commodes. She knows that she isn't really welcome in society, but she has no intention of marrying, and definitely not to an aristocratic gentleman. Hoping that she can become a wallflower while joining her grandfather in society, she visits a clothing emporium, thinking to create a wardrobe perfect for her new role. While there, she meets the handsome and enigmatic American Jacob Astor Addison, wanting to buy up the business, and transport it all back to America for his growing theatre trade. At a standoff, they lock heads, and make a deal over the emporium: Jake will design Cleo's 'wallflower wardrobe', and Cleo will outfit Jake in outfits perfect for his entry into society. As they spend more time together, both while working, and in private, it's soon apparent that though they may appear to be polar opposites, they are made for each other.

When I heard that Eloisa had a new series coming out, I couldn't wait to get a hold of a copy, and was glad when my library hold came in. This book was different from my usual historical reads, in that both of the characters felt very modern and at times a little unsuited to the setting. That being said, I loved the relationship between Cleo and Jake, and they were truly made for each other. Both bolstered the other, and brought them up, rather than dragging them down. I hated the drama in the book, but neither of the protagonists were to blame, and it was dealt with perfectly, in my opinion. I'm glad I have a review copy of book 2, The Reluctant Countess, because Yasmin and Lilford are so in love, it's unreal. A great start to a new series!

Dates Read:
September 23-25, 2022

Rating
4 Stars