How to Be a Wallflower

By: Eloisa James

Narrated by: Susan Duerden

Publisher's summary

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! A perfect companion story to Eloisa's My American Duchess.

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!

Cleo's unconventional background and Jake's American roots cause a stir in the rigid social hierarchy of Regency England.

©2022 Eloisa James (P)2022 HarperCollins Publishers

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4 out of 5 stars

By denise on 11-08-23

Unique Romance

Good story with unusual circumstances. I like the characters l, their backgrounds, and the pace of the story telling. Not my favorite narrator, American accents are pitiful.

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5 out of 5 stars

By Gravilove19 on 10-30-23

Sweet Story

I really enjoyed the competitive love story of these two characters. The audio was wonderful!

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4 out of 5 stars

By LZD on 01-23-23

Enjoyable

Well written and narrated. Story drew you in from the beginning with an assertive, intelligent, English business woman in conflict with an intelligent, aggressive, American businessman. Fast paced without unnecessary filler dialogue or too many metaphors. The ending was a bit of a let down in that it was predictable. In order not to slip a spoiler in I will describe the scene I would have liked to see explored in more depth in general terms. Scene: the meeting at Mary’s house toward the end of the book with all the “players “ present. I would have liked more conflict between the characters with some original agendas and surprises. I would give better descriptions of alternative plot twists but that would give too much of the ending away.
At any rate, I recommend the book and the author to those looking for a pleasant read or listening experience.

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5 out of 5 stars

By Pearl Hudgins on 06-18-23

Decent read

I dislike the readers’s cadence. But I thoroughly enjoyed the story so suggest it for others.

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5 out of 5 stars

By nicole b on 04-03-22

another great book from one of my favorite authors

loved this book. the characters were great. I also loved the HEA. you need to read this.

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5 out of 5 stars

By Sandra L. Agus on 12-22-22

Delightful!

I'm going to start this review about the narrator! She is just wonderful. I love Susan Duerden! She always does a great job! Give her a chance.
This book was wonderful. I loved the characters. Jake Aster-Addison, is American trying to buy the best costume designer in London for his play houses in NYC and Boston. Cleopatra Lewis is the owner to her deceased father's camode company. She decides to buy the dress company so that the woman doesn't have to move to NYC. They meet and he immediately decides he wants Cleo! She takes a bit of persuasion. Together they are a wonderful pair! I loved this book.

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5 out of 5 stars

By eathe on 03-30-22

Never disappoints!

I LOVE Eloisa James!

The story was so sweet, and I loved the friendship they developed through the novel and the patience and love Jake had for Cleo.

James has a way with crafting unique and original heroines that aren’t the same old romance novel simpering miss!

I truly appreciate the historical details and well-crafted story!

Can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!

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5 out of 5 stars

By J Smith on 04-22-22

Wonderful listen!!

As always, this didn’t disappoint!! Just a beautiful love story with no ridiculous kidnappings or daggers. And, love love love Susan Duerden’s narration always! There’s just a few female narrators that can bring reality to male voices.

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5 out of 5 stars

By LoveLeighReading on 03-30-22

Lived up to my expectations from a favorite author

I've been highly anticipating this release and was thoroughly satisfied with the story. The characters felt real and honest to themselves and each other. It was such a refreshing take on historical romance. Highly recommend!

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5 out of 5 stars

By Shelly on 06-04-23

Enjoyable

What great entertainment! I laughed and cried! Totally a fan! Fish eyes! Hahaha. Cleo is a woman of her own. Is was wonderful to see her become happy.

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