How to Be a Wallflower is the latest, and first in a new series, from the legendary Eloisa James.
This book follows along the love story of Cleo Lewis, and Jacob Astor Addison. Cleo is an heiress to the booming trade of in-house commodes (aka water closets), and Jake is an American who has come to England to hire a legendary stage costumer and whisk her away to America. Cleo grew up around actors and the theater thanks to her mother, so she has a soft spot for the costumer and her own funds to buy the business Jake is trying to acquire to prevent her from having to leave London. Let the battle commence.
I honestly loved this book. I loved seeing Merry from My American Duchess back on the page, and I loved how worldly but somewhat naive Cleo was. And Jake was absolutely GONE for Cleo (We love to see it).
Cleo's insecurities about falling for a man and having him take over her business, as well as knowing how her mother regarded men (Different ones every night, infidelity, never fully loving someone) was palpable. It's so scary to fall in love, especially if you are already financially independent and don't want to lose that. Jake knew he had his work cut out for him to prove to her that he wasn't going to try and simply steal the seamstress away, which was his initial plan.
I had no idea what to expect going into this book and I wholeheartedly loved it. The dramatics of Jake's life he left behind in America came to a head in the last 15% of the book, but Cleo was a fairly level headed FMC and honestly I just loved how mature they were about everything.

ABSOLUTELY recommend this book. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Eloisa James for the eArc. I can't wait for who's next... and I have my suspicions

*NEW SERIES* Book #1 of the Would-Be Wallflowers series by Eloisa James. Pub. day 3/29/22

Our heroine, Cleopatra Lewis, is an English heiress and the successful business woman behind her late-fathers Lewis Commodes empire. She wants to be a wallflower after growing up under her mothers lifestyle of on-again-off-again affairs with actors she’d picked up along her travels (and unfortunately, always leaving Cleo to clean up the mess). With her mother’s passing, she arrives in London to finally meet her aristocratic grandfather, Viscount Falconer, and to be launched into society by him. But then a chance encounter with a certain Mr. sends her plans in a direction she could never of imagined, even more-so, after they end up as guests at the same hotel.. oops!

Our hero, American entrepreneur Jake Astor Addison, has a large, muscular build, is gruff but sweet, and has no problem speaking (or showing) how he feels. He’s in London to build up his businesses back home. One in particular, Quimby’s Emporium, he plans on buying, then moving to the states along with procuring English actors and actresses for his own theatre’s there.

The plot centers around the one-upmanship between Jake and Cleo. After coming to the rescue of dress shop owner Mrs. Quimby who specializes in theatrical costumes, Cleo buys a stake in Quimby’s Emporium saving Mrs. Quimby from moving to the states. Jake had already planned on buying it himself, and is completely out of sorts over the catastrophe caused by Cleo. They make a compromise. They will design each other’s wardrobes sewn by the emporiums seamstresses.. wearing them to parties and other ton engagements.. meanwhile scheming to undo the other. Poor Jake.. he’s quite dandy in his new duds!

Jake and Cleo’s HEA is fun and sweetly entertaining. I loved their witty banter, and that carriage scene.. wow.. (I had no idea carriages were built with these hidden features). EJ’s written this with just the right amount of spice and longing. I was in need of a romance I could get lost in, and as always, Eloisa James did just that. I can’t wait for book two.

Thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager via NetGalley for kindly approving an arc for an honest review.

This is my first book by Eloisa James and I really enjoyed her writing style. There are quite a few of my favorite tropes featured in the book, like enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and a hero that is all in. The instalove is very strong between Cleo and Jake and I was a little surprised by how quickly things shifted. Cleo was my favorite character in the book and she was such a fantastic heroine. I really loved how bold and fearless she was. It took a bit for Jake to grow on me, but his determination and love for Cleo won me over. I wasn't a fan of the predictable ending drama (moo) and it felt unnecessary. I also didn't love that Jake never told Cleo about his "arrangement" and his response after blindsiding and embarrassing her left much to be desired (where was the grovel!?) The epilogue set up the next book very well though (lots of hints for the next couple throughout) and I'm looking forward to seeing those sparks fly.

Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 3 stars
Story 4 stars

I both read and listened to How to Be a Wallflower and though enjoyable, I didn't fully love Susan Duerden's performance. The narration was fine overall, but I did have problems differentiating between characters and was glad that I had the text to refer to.

CW: grief, death of parents (past), classism, mentions of addiction (opium)

*I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book*

I thought that this book was incredibly fun, seductively cute and totally swoon worthy. In other words, I absolutely loved it. The writing was beautifully done, and I found the story engaging and entertaining. I felt that there was a unique freshness to this tale because while I have certainly seen similar takes on this situation, I've never seen it played out in such a way. This was a nice twist that I genuinely appreciated. I found Jake and Cleo easy to like and I fell for them super hard as a couple. All in all, I thought this was an amazing romance. It was charming, funny and filled with feels. What a great way to kick-off this enticing new series that I'm definitely looking forward to reading more of.

Another Eloisa James book that I ended up loving and one with a heroine who's nothing like a wallflower(though she desires to be one to avoid marriage)!❣️✨
Cleo, the owner of the successful Lewis Commodes(started by her father) is about to be launched into society by her grandfather, whom she's just met after many years of living a wild and nomadic life with her mother. But, she has no interest in marrying and as she enjoys her independence she decides to make her wardrobe as boring as possible before her debut, in order to drive away any prospective suitors!

While trying to accomplish that she ends up buying Quimby's Costume Emporium with an idea in mind, thwarting the plans of an American businessman - Jake, who had wished to buy it before her. Their relationship starts off with lively competition and they end up making a bet - with each designing the other's wardrobe. And as sparks fly, both Jake and Cleo find themselves caring more about each other than their costumes and the bet!

"He had to admit that she had a point, but he was playing a double game: he no longer gave a damn about Quimby's. He needed a reason to see Cleo: a solid reason that would give him the time and space to win a woman who seemed damned near unwinnable-because she couldn't be courted by conventional means. At the moment, of he had asked her to dance, she would conclude that he was trying to cozen her into giving up Quimby's."

I loved how Jake decided to pursue Cleo from the moment that he realized that he'd fallen for her! He's determined, cheeky and charismatic. Cleo is a great match for him with her wit, confidence and bravery. But, she's also afraid of being like her mother - who spent most of her life going in and out of relationships with various men as she chased her 'passions'. Though Cleo is level-headed and smart, it doesn't stop her from feeling the attraction between her and Jake. As she slowly begins to fall for him, she also learns to trust him(and herself) as their relationship deepens. Their relationship development is so cute!

Cleo's grandfather and his friend were so much fun! And I loved meeting Jake's friend Merry(from My American Duchess) and her Duke again in this one! They have such a good friendship!
This book doesn't have much drama and I don't think we needed that last bit at the end to create some conflict lol 🐮. Kinda unnecessary 😛
Do give this one a try if you're in the mood for a light and humorous romance! And I think the next book might be Yasmin's? Very excited to see how it goes!

*I was provided with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

How to Be a Wallflower is completely charming. It’s bright, fun, fast-paced, and sweet with a nice dash of spice. In Jake and Cleo’s romance, author Eloisa James has kicked off her Would-Be Wallflowers series with a love story that will leave you smiling.

Cleo Lewis has spent her life following her mother and the broken hearts left in her wake. Cleo is a sharp, smart businesswoman who is more interested in growing her company, Lewis Commodes, than she is in marrying. In London for the Season to bond with her grandfather, Cleo is determined to make herself into a wallflower. She visits a costume emporium, intent on ordering unflattering dresses, but manages to not only invest a new business but thwart a brash American as well! Jake Addison is furious at having lost a business deal, but that anger is quickly replaced by his fascination with Cleo. It’s not long before his course has shifted and his new aim is to win the heart of the woman who is his match in every way.

Cleo and Jake are too cute for words. Cleo is unconventional and no-nonsense, which I liked. Jake is her perfect match; a blunt businessman who appreciates Cleo’s mind as much as he does the rest of her. Jake made me smile with how quickly he fell head-over-heels for Cleo. I loved that he didn’t question it, wasn’t bothered by the depth of his affection, and was willing to do what it took to win Cleo over without ever pressuring her. I’ll leave it to readers to discover how he does, but the interesting sartorial choices, the breakfasts and brandies…all of it was a joy. Their romance sparkles, the banter between them made me grin, and I loved how straightforward they were about their desires. I liked that James made them friends as well as lovers, and it was impossible not to be delighted by them as a couple.

How to Be a Wallflower is the first book in a new series but fans of James’s My American Duchess will love revisiting the heroine of that book as Merry is Jake’s best friend (though reading Merry’s book is not a prerequisite to fully enjoy this one). James also introduces new potential protagonists in this book that have me incredibly eager to read more Would-Be Wallflowers stories. Jake and Cleo’s romance is bright, honest, sensual, and sweet – the perfect escape read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

I adored this charming book. It is the new of a new series that I can't wait to read more of. This is written in my favorite dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the characters' thoughts really help me to better understand the characters.

Jake comes to England looking to buy a few businesses that he will bring back to America. One of those businesses is a clothing emporium, Quimby's. Quimby's will clothe the theaters that he inherited from his father in style. Jake is a big brute of a man who would never be mistaken for an English autocrat. He goes to the emporium to discuss the contract with the Martha Quimby to discover that a Miss Cleopatra Lewis stole the business right out in front of him!

It was never Cleo's intention to purchase the business but she couldn't stand for the women to be upset. They had just found out that the business was to leave England for America and they didn't want to go. Both Cleo and Jake come to an arrangement to see who would actually be able to make the purchase. Jake is the typical alpha male. He wants the emporium but he wants Cleo even more! Cleo has some troubling issues stemming from her mother's behavior while growing up and even though she is drawn to the American, she wants to be a wallflower to be able to avoid marriage.

These two are a delight to read. I love reading historical romances as there are usually a few words that I have to look up to see the definition. This was no exception. Learning should never stop.

This read had a few sexy scenes but the author does a wonderful job of not going over the top in the details.

I hope Yazmin gets a story but I don't know if it would be in this series as I can't really see her as a wallflower!

Eloisa James is a master of unusual plot lines in her romance novels, and How to Be a Wallflower is a perfect example. Cleo is a member of the ton who really wants nothing to do with the social scene in London in Regency England or following the norms of a society marriage - so she makes a plan to turn herself into a wallflower. Guaranteed to become an independent worman! Jake is an American, who has come to London to acquire theatrical holdings to add to his successful business in America. They encounter each other when both are courting the same costume designer: Cleo wants a new "wallflower" wardrobe, and Jake wants to hire the costumer and take her away to America to work for him. However, when Cleo meets Jake, the sparks fly instantly! And all of their plans change.

I simply could not put this book down. It is a fun, witty romp that you don't want to miss!

#netgalley #HowToBeAWallflower

Cleopatra is to be launched into society by her grandfather but she has no intention of wedding. She plans on dressing in unflattering ways to avoid suitors. Jake is an entrepreneur and looking to acquire businesses. He is furious when Cleopatra ends up owning a business he wanted for himself. The two end up becoming friends then more feelings grow between them. An excellent read.

I received a copy of this book via Netgalley.

Eloisa James never disappoints. She has a solid formula for writing historical romances and she does it very well. She brings depth to her main characters and it really makes us root for them to be together. Perhaps maybe in the future a string of her books will be made into a Netflix series.

Absolutely lovely book !! Eloisa does it again with intriguing characters and beautiful writing style !

How To Be A Wallflower by Eloisa James is a five star treat. It follows Ms. James’ wildly popular Wilde family series. This first book in her latest series comes out on all cylinders and does not disappoint.

You’ll find witty banter here between a brash, devilishly handsome American bent on building his own empire and an independent businesswoman equally bent on hiding her light beneath a bushel or, in her case, the puritanical cut of her gowns. I have to say how refreshing it is to have a businesswoman and not an heiress as the heroine. I thought it added another dynamic to the character.

Jake Astor Addison is a self-made millionaire who comes to England to buy a theatrical dresser’s business and bring her and her entire business to the states to costume his growing number of theaters. I love the connection to theater, not to mention a glimpse into the early days of New York’s own ton.

Cleo Lewis, aspiring wallflower, is the daughter of a successful businessman who trades in commodes and the intrepid, wild daughter of a viscount. She takes the reins of the business while her estranged grandfather wants to give her a belated season. Cleo wants no part of it as she has no interest in marrying. Her parents’ marriage was not a happy one with her mother’s infidelities that broke both Cleo’s and her father’s hearts.

Cleo steps in and buys Quimby’s right out from under Jake. He is both incensed and intrigued and he manages to get under her skin, as well. A friendship develops between them as they live in the same hotel. They genuinely like and respect each other as passions develop in a slow burn. No trip to a happily ever after can run smoothly but they both know what they have is worth the journey.

I loved every page of How To Be A Wallflower. I am excited for this new series and can’t wait for the next book! I am a huge fan of Eloisa James’ writing. Her characters are always bright and engaging. Her books are hard to put down. I have lost a great deal of sleep because I am up late reading her books and this one was no different. If this is your first Eloisa James book - you are in for a treat. If you are a long-time fan - settle in for another great read.

If ever an author could make kippers for breakfast sounds delicious and sexy, it would be Eloisa James.

Happy release day to her newest book, HOW TO BE A WALLFLOWER.

I just finished reading HOW TO BE A WALLFLOWER this morning.

This book has so many things that I just love and adore in my romance novels and in James’s writing.

- Male protagonist that falls in love first. Or maybe it's lust. Let's just say that when Jake first meets Cleo in less than ideal circumstances, he forgets that he implied to his mom he was going to propose to someone back in America. You know pining from the male protagonist is my cat nip in a cis-het romance (and if you don't, now you do)
- Female protagonist that doesn't want to get married. Cleo, doesn't want to marry mainly because she was previously engaged, and her former fiance tried to sell the business she inherited from her father from under her. Let's see if Jake’s courting can cause Cleo to change her mind.
- A cast of wonderful secondary characters, of which at least one is set up to be the protagonist of a future book. Plus we get to revisit Merry, the female protagonist from MY AMERICAN DUCHESS, who turns out to be Jake's best friend.

It does seem that James’s has moved from the Georgian era to the Regency era, so no more elaborate wigs, but we do still get descriptive dresses and suits. The costuming being a major part of this business adversaries to lovers story. Will say that

I do recommend putting this book on your TBR, and pulling it out when you need a lighter book with some laughs.

There is some on page sex, but most of it is closed door.

Content Notes: death of parents (illness, drug addiction - opium; all off page, prior to start of the book)

Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for this advanced copy!

Eloisa James was one of the first historical romance authors I dove into when I discovered the romance genre, and this book is just another reason why I love her writing. You are guaranteed witty, fun heroines and smart, wonderful heroes who meet and fall in love in just the best ways. And really, what more do you want?

Cleo and Jake are such a great couple and while I felt like they had a little too much "insta-love", I really appreciated how James's plot lengthened their courtship into something that was just so lovely. Instead of having the plot take place over the course of a week or two (which always feels too short to me), the plot unfurls over a few months, allowing you to understand that when they finally declare their love, they actually know each other and have formed an incredibly wonderful bond.

While I loved the central love story, I will say that the plot, especially at the beginning, is a tad ridiculous. I love the first few chapters, as they start fighting over the costume shop they both want, but then it goes into some sort of competition and I'll be honest, I got a bit lost. Was the point of the competition to have Jake wear something ridiculous while Cleo looked fabulous? It felt a bit thin, but also I'm a sucker for a guy who will wear whatever to impress his person, so I was all in any way, very much appreciating when both characters agreed it was silly and should be stopped.

Also, it was great to see Merry, Duchess of Trent from James's previous book American Duchess. That was a fun book and it was nice to see Merry and Jake interact as old friends.

Overall, there were a few places where I rolled my eyes, but honestly, I thought this was a lot of fun and I'm excited for more wanna be wallflower adventures!

5 Stars
Eloisa James, how much do I love how you write...I cannot express how much. I love how you can take a love story, have BOTH people be smart, capable, and not afraid to love...yes, maybe hesitant, but in the end, fully committed.
This works on so many levels and there will be others who will be able to express this book so much better than I.

I highly recommend this book.

For the second week in a row, I’ve delved into the world of Regency era London theatre and I’m 100% Here. For. It. You throw in some insta-love on the heroes' part, a touch of enemies to lover, add a dash of female empowerment packed into one Wallflower and you have a Rae’s Favs on your hands, baby. Like catnip to this very discerning cat, I can easily say that I thoroughly enjoyed Eloisa James’, How to Be a Wallflower.

A Little Bit of Plot
All Jacob Astor Addison wants is a manageable quiet wife and for his American theatre empire to have the best of the best. Meaning, world renown talent - including London's best costume designer. He’s willing to pay top dollar to relocate the operation to the states in order to have the best in the business. Daughter of a ‘commode baron’, Cleopatra Lewis wishes for the costume emporium to remain in London and clothe not only actors and actresses but the tonne as well. Jake and Cleo strike up a bargain: they will design wardrobes for each other to thwart their opponents' winning plans. Except after one fiery exchange, Jake forgets about that quiet boring vision of a wife and turns his sights on Cleo. Unfortunately for Jake, Cleo is determined to be a wallflower, while living the life of an independent entrepreneur. Unbeknownst to Cleo, however, is that Jake knows how to play the long game - and excels at it.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)
A Sexually Informed Heroine

While Cleopatra Lewis is a virgin, she’s not an ill-informed one. Her mother, unfortunately/fortunately, had quite the wandering eye and enjoyed a profuse amount of ‘bed-sport’ with different flavors of the week. Unfortunately for Cleo, her mother, Julia, would describe her exploits in detail to her teenage daughter and cuckolded husband. Conversely, Cleo gained a wealth of knowledge about safe sexual practices and independence. Along with her sexual freedom came the importance of deterring unwanted pregnancy.

Condoms! Julia commented in Cleo’s head. I told that boy about french letters years ago and he never listened.

We also learn that Julia insisted that Cleo stock her own condoms in the actuality that a man will attempt to forgo his own. And while her first time is still as shocking as it would be for any virgin at that time, Cleo knows what to expect…somewhat.

“More” didn’t turn out to be a good idea. “Kiss me again, Jake,” Cleo whispered.
He instantly complied. “Do you feel gutted, darling?”
She couldn’t help a burble of laughter. “Did you just describe making love as a ‘gutting’?”
“I’m trying to imagine it from your point of view, “ he said, his voice strained. “I’m not a small man.”
Cleo wiggled, trying to get comfortable. “Gutted’ might actually apply.”

While I’m certain this character is not as historically accurate as we hoped she’d be, it’s always refreshing to read about a heroine that not only enjoys being sexual but is also fearless when faced with new experiences.

The Meat (The Con)
Honestly, there wasn’t much I didn’t care for with this book. It surpassed my expectations and I’m actually excited to read the next installment. If I had to pick out one negative, it would be that I guessed what the conflict would be that led to the Act 2 break up, but honestly, it’s not as angsty as I envisioned. And y’all know I hate angst (see almost every episode of the podcast and about ½ of the reviews I write).

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
The Fall First, Fall Hard Hero

I’m in love with this new trope, guys. It’s becoming much more popular, and I have to say, it’s addicting. For my entire life I’ve heard women say “for once, I want to be chased”, well ladies, the historical romance genre is f#$ing delivering! It’s like John Cusack in Say Anything, but instead of a boombox and trenchcoat, he’s a duke in breeches with a four piece string quartet behind him.

The attraction builds after their first disastrous meeting and grows for Jake. Quiet conversations where he attempts to build up her irritation spark something in him.

At that moment, he gave in. Cleopatra Lewis had conquered him without a single come-hither smile.

By doing nothing but leading a strong, independent, and intelligent existence, this woman has enraptured this giant American theatre impresario. As he knows her plan is to remain a solitary woman, he understands that to win her he has to build up their relationship slowly.
By wooing her - putting. in. the. damn. work.

We also talk on the podcast about putting in the minimum required effort; that the bar is literally on the floor in terms of expectations. Jake yeets that damn bar into the sun.

In the back of his head, he reshuffled his life goals, and an impetuous, exasperating, utterly desirable British woman stepped to the fore…
All those battles faded into insignificance.
Winning Cleopatra?
She held all the cards. Their kisses took his breath and language, leaving him with an inarticulate wish to growl, pick her up, and find a bed.

Life Goal: Find a man who looks at you the way Jacob Astor Addision stares at Cleopatra Lewis.

Lastly, I would talk about the ungodly ugly clothes that Jake is forced to wear in order to be near Cleo at every social event, but I could go on for pages. But the fact that he designs beautiful gowns that highlight every one of her curves and physical attributes as he’s forced to parade around town dressed like a foppish nightmare? Pure perfection.

Cue the Peter Gabriel, I’m about to swoon.

How to be a Wallflower, a the first in a new series by Eloisa James is a fun, lighthearted book filled with colorful characters. Cleo's cleverness, stubbornness and individuality provide us with a piece that is both energetic and charming. The dialogue between our two main characters is witty and engaging and easily draws the reader into the story.

Cleopatra Lewis, an heiress whose fortune comes from commodes, is about to enter London society. In an effort to satisfy her mother’s dying wish, Cleo will allow her grandfather to introduce her during the season. The only caveat... she must be launched as a Wallflower. Under the impression that clothes make the man (well in this case, the woman), Cleo sets out to find the most outrageous garments available…at least available to someone in half mourning.

While preparing to outfit herself in her wallflower “costume”, Cleo discovers that a brash American man is attempting to buy out and move to America, Quimby’s, a popular costume shop furnishing her wardrobe. This simply will not do. Quimby’s belongs exactly where it is, in London. To ensure that this remains the case, Cleo does what must be done, she moves to thwart his purchase. This impetuous action pits her against Jacob (Jake) Addison, the brash American financier from New York who does not take kindly to losing. Jake is a little too much. Too much personality, too big, and too hard to resist.

In an effort to win Quimby’s back from Cleo, Jacob comes up with the perfect plan…one that will destroy Qyimby’s reputation. As Jake puts his plan in motion, he starts to form a friendship with his rival and soon falls in love...leaving him to fight for something way more valuable than Quimby’s. He wants Cleo’s heart!

Overall the book was enjoyable. I would have liked a bit of steam. There wasn't much, even where there were intimate scenes. There were times where I felt the book lagged and others where I felt it was unbelievable...but what I can I say...it's fiction.

I received a copy of this book for review from NetGalley. Cleo Lewis was in the right place at the right time to both invest in a fabulous business, and to meet a massive American determined to win that business back from her. This begins a fun and friendly story of two rivals who become friends to lovers through shared interests, similar humor, and so much kissing. Although Addison comes to his senses about his feelings for Cleo pretty quickly, she has a fair amount of baggage to work through first, which they acknowledge and talk about. Like adults. Who talk. It's amazing. Despite knowing that a certain opal was going to come back and haunt Jake, this was an enjoyable read about two fun people who like each other. What's not to love?
Although I would love to have a Byng appreciation post too (seriously, there is just something about him where I want to keep him), I have hopes that he'll make appearances in the next book. If you like Eloisa James, you'll love this book.

Cleo is a woman ahead of her time in How to Be a Wallflower. She is a woman of business who is determined to make the newly aquired Costume Emporium succeed, but Jake challenges her at every step of the way. Their idea of advertising the shop will keep you laughing throughout the enitre book.

She is a strong independent woman, who I honestly believe could take over the world if she wanted to. Jake takes one look at her and knows his entire life is about to change. This was such a cute read that left me wishing I could jump right into the next book in the series.

How to be a Wallflower is yet another charming Regency era romance from the pen of author Eloisa James. Smartly executed, vibrant and engaging I thoroughly enjoyed this excursion into the world of English heiress Cleopatra Lewis and American businessman Jacob Astor Addison.
Theirs becomes a battle of wills as Cleopatra outsmarts, outmaneuvers, yet ultimately falls in love with the charismatic American as he does with her. Along the way the reader is treated to an exceptionally well written narrative with many engaging interactions between the two protagonists and a cast of likable characters that aid in bringing the story to life.
I highly recommend for readers who enjoy Regency Romance with a little spice added to the mix!