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Fairy Tales #2.5
Winning the Wallflower
It could only happen in a fairy tale.
Lady Lucy Towerton:
Plain and tall. (According to the lady herself.)
Titled and irreproachably proper. (According to her fiancé.)
Until, overnight, she becomes
Lady Lucy Towerton:
Heiress. (Thanks to an aged aunt’s bequest.)
Belle of the ball. (So say the fortune hunters of the ton.)
In charge of her own destiny (finally!), Lucy breaks her engagement and makes up her mind never to be proper again…
NOTE: This novella is related to "The Duke Is Mine" and includes Olivia Lytton.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2011
527 people are currently reading
3005 people want to read
About the author
Eloisa James
123 books9,537 followersNew York Times bestselling author Eloisa James writes historical romances for HarperCollins Publishers. Her novels have been published to great acclaim. A reviewer from USA Today wrote of Eloisa's very first book that she "found herself devouring the book like a dieter with a Hershey bar"; later People Magazine raved that "romance writing does not get much better than this." Her novels have repeatedly received starred reviews from Publishers' Weekly and Library Journal and regularly appear on the best-seller lists.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews
April 22, 2017
3,5 Stars
A shy wallflower and a starchy hero who badly needs a little bit of scandal to un-starch.
Sparkly banter and humour for a sweet and sexy short story, which still allows for characters growth thanks to the flawless writing and a lively pace.
A nice addition to James's Regency Fairy Tales series, but that can be totally enjoyed as a standalone as well.
Buddy-read with Anna :)
A shy wallflower and a starchy hero who badly needs a little bit of scandal to un-starch.
Sparkly banter and humour for a sweet and sexy short story, which still allows for characters growth thanks to the flawless writing and a lively pace.
A nice addition to James's Regency Fairy Tales series, but that can be totally enjoyed as a standalone as well.
Buddy-read with Anna :)
February 8, 2023
2.5 Stars
December 24, 2011
http://www.demonloversbooksandmore.co...
4.5 flames
This was a wonderful little story about a girl who feels tall and awkward, so when the most handsome man in Society asked her to marry him-even though she knew it was because she couldn't say no (she thinks she has no prospects), and she knew he needed her title (his mother caused a scandal when she was younger by marrying beneath her station)- Lucy says yes.
Cyrus has a Plan, that's Plan with a capital "P." Nothing on his list involves any form of emotion, after all his mother caused quite the scandal when she married his father, a "mere" solicitor, for love. Cyrus plans to gain back his mother's status, and marrying a wallflower who has a title is his goal.
But the wrench thrown in the Plan? Lucy becomes an heiress, and with all that money and her title? Lucy is suddenly very eligible. Her mother pushes her to break of her engagement and look for someone "better." But Lucy finds she really wants to marry Cyrus, so her plan is to kiss him in front of witnesses to compromise herself.
When Lucy sees Cyrus, they find a room to talk in private-he (and the whole ballroom) think Lucy is about to call off the engagement. Lucy didn't expect to do just that. But she does, and very passionately. Which surprises Cyrus, because Lucy was supposed to be calm and steady. This passionate side of her is...entrancing. And, she's...leaving him? Cyrus wants her back immediately, and not at all for his Plan.
Will Cyrus win her back?
A delightful, passionate story. Absolutely worth the read, and since it's free right now-grab it! (til Dec. 26, 2011)
4.5 flames
This was a wonderful little story about a girl who feels tall and awkward, so when the most handsome man in Society asked her to marry him-even though she knew it was because she couldn't say no (she thinks she has no prospects), and she knew he needed her title (his mother caused a scandal when she was younger by marrying beneath her station)- Lucy says yes.
Cyrus has a Plan, that's Plan with a capital "P." Nothing on his list involves any form of emotion, after all his mother caused quite the scandal when she married his father, a "mere" solicitor, for love. Cyrus plans to gain back his mother's status, and marrying a wallflower who has a title is his goal.
But the wrench thrown in the Plan? Lucy becomes an heiress, and with all that money and her title? Lucy is suddenly very eligible. Her mother pushes her to break of her engagement and look for someone "better." But Lucy finds she really wants to marry Cyrus, so her plan is to kiss him in front of witnesses to compromise herself.
When Lucy sees Cyrus, they find a room to talk in private-he (and the whole ballroom) think Lucy is about to call off the engagement. Lucy didn't expect to do just that. But she does, and very passionately. Which surprises Cyrus, because Lucy was supposed to be calm and steady. This passionate side of her is...entrancing. And, she's...leaving him? Cyrus wants her back immediately, and not at all for his Plan.
Will Cyrus win her back?
A delightful, passionate story. Absolutely worth the read, and since it's free right now-grab it! (til Dec. 26, 2011)
September 11, 2017
“But I wouldn’t care if the world knew how much I loved you,” he said, the words leaping from some place deep in his heart. “I wouldn’t even care because I—I want you more than anything I’ve ever wanted in my life.”
Ah this novella.. SO MUCH LOVE!
"Winning the Wallflower" is the story of Lucy Towerton and Cyrus Ravensthorpe.
Lucy, a tall destitute wallflower is engaged to Cyrus, the brooding, starchy man of the gentry. When she comes into an unexpected fortune, while her mother plans to break the bethrotal, she is enamored by Cyrus..until she realizes his true reasons and things take a new turn.
We have a strong, lovable heroine- a groveling hero- sweet kisses-hilarious poems and such a wonderful story!
And the epilogue...*swoons*
LOVED, LOVED IT!
Safe
5/5
P.S. So excited for Olivia!
Ah this novella.. SO MUCH LOVE!
"Winning the Wallflower" is the story of Lucy Towerton and Cyrus Ravensthorpe.
Lucy, a tall destitute wallflower is engaged to Cyrus, the brooding, starchy man of the gentry. When she comes into an unexpected fortune, while her mother plans to break the bethrotal, she is enamored by Cyrus..until she realizes his true reasons and things take a new turn.
We have a strong, lovable heroine- a groveling hero- sweet kisses-hilarious poems and such a wonderful story!
And the epilogue...*swoons*
LOVED, LOVED IT!
Safe
5/5
P.S. So excited for Olivia!
February 16, 2020
This is a wonderful, entertaining, well-written historical romance novella. It has likable, engaging characters, a heart warming romance, a happily ever after ending, and plenty of Ms. James' trademark humor and wit. Eloisa James never disappoints her readers!
March 26, 2021
3.5 stars
On second reading which happened because I didn't check my read list, I leave the rating as before.
Still I was feeling like a quick Regency romance as I seem to be reading nothing but Ww1and Ww2 lately. I needed a bit of froth and bubble.
On second reading which happened because I didn't check my read list, I leave the rating as before.
Still I was feeling like a quick Regency romance as I seem to be reading nothing but Ww1and Ww2 lately. I needed a bit of froth and bubble.
December 8, 2011
I loved this story! My only complaint is that I wish it had been longer. Almost half of the novella's pages are actually sneak peaks for other Eloisa books, which is fine except that as I was keeping an eye on where I was (page-wise) while I was reading it I was quite surprised when it just suddenly ended. I would have loved to have seen a bit more at the end, although the epilogue was fantastic.
Favorite parts of the novella:
Lucy--great character. I loved how she ended up coming into her own and really made Cyrus reexamine not only how he saw her but also himself. When she called him a dumba$$--too funny! Every time! :-)
Cyrus--Being able to see the development of the romance from his point of view as well as from Lucy's was really important here, because we were able to understand exactly why he acted the way he did. I just loved watching his character as he finally realized what living for and by his "lists" was doing to him as a person.
Pretty much every interaction between Lucy and Cyrus. Trademark Eloisa James material, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Epilogue--awesome! Really cute peek into what the future holds for these two.
All in all, it was a great set-up for her next novel, The Duke is Mine. It would have been great to have seen these two characters get their own novel instead of just a novella, but this was an enjoyable way to tide ourselves over until James's next full-size book comes out. For 99 cents, you really can't go wrong.
Favorite parts of the novella:
Lucy--great character. I loved how she ended up coming into her own and really made Cyrus reexamine not only how he saw her but also himself. When she called him a dumba$$--too funny! Every time! :-)
Cyrus--Being able to see the development of the romance from his point of view as well as from Lucy's was really important here, because we were able to understand exactly why he acted the way he did. I just loved watching his character as he finally realized what living for and by his "lists" was doing to him as a person.
Pretty much every interaction between Lucy and Cyrus. Trademark Eloisa James material, and thoroughly enjoyable.
Epilogue--awesome! Really cute peek into what the future holds for these two.
All in all, it was a great set-up for her next novel, The Duke is Mine. It would have been great to have seen these two characters get their own novel instead of just a novella, but this was an enjoyable way to tide ourselves over until James's next full-size book comes out. For 99 cents, you really can't go wrong.
February 17, 2017
Lady Lucy Towerton no longer needs to marry her fiance, the right proper Mr. Cyrus Raventhorpe. So she dumps his ass, which leads to Cyrus realizing that his grinch-like heart is actually full of love--for his former fiancee. SUCK THAT ALLITERATION, CYRUS.
I ENJOYED THIS. Cyrus does a 180 and becomes an entirely different man, but eh. And everything felt a bit rushed, but then this is a novella. I acknowledge the format constraints. But I did like Cyrus's original character: the stodgy, uptight businessman who is looking to protect his family. His fall into love was just too *snap of the fingers* for me. BUT I LIKED IT SO THERE.
I ENJOYED THIS. Cyrus does a 180 and becomes an entirely different man, but eh. And everything felt a bit rushed, but then this is a novella. I acknowledge the format constraints. But I did like Cyrus's original character: the stodgy, uptight businessman who is looking to protect his family. His fall into love was just too *snap of the fingers* for me. BUT I LIKED IT SO THERE.
November 4, 2021
Full review: https://therookiejurist.com/
The first thing to be stated is that the title is highly deceptive and there is little to no chase in this book. Also, the blurb makes it seem like the female protagonist is somehow in possession of her wits, and unfortunately, she lost it whole tripping over herself repeatedly while attempting to drape herself all over the male protagonist’s body.
As for the male protagonist, a long time ago, his mother shunned society and eloped with her family’s solicitor and he and his siblings were the result of that happy union. This, my dear friends, is the reason he’s made it his life mission to not cause anything to stir the attention of the peerage towards him. For this reason, he surmised that a docile and supine wife from the aristocratic class would make a nice addition to their tainted bloodline.
What’s even crazy is that he’s quite open with his adoration of his parents and their blissful union but couldn’t help feeling scorned by society because of the match. The big reconciliation doesn’t happen at the end, mind you. He eventually gets an appointmemt (I’m not sure this is the word) and comes into possession of a duchy. In other words, all his concerns were eventually laid to rest by confirming all the biases.
Nothing on earth can convince me that the female protagonist actually bought the crap the male protagonist was selling so enthusiastically. I understand that the point of a novella is to cram as much detail as possible into as few pages as possible and this could make the story less plausible and vital details end up lost (or ignored) in the rush but really?
In the morning, he’s convinced she’s a wallflower and blah blah and by night (after a scorchingly hot kiss) he decides that she’s the perfect mate for him. He instantly forgets the very reason he was bent on marrying an unfastidious person after brushing her “pert” nipples and watching his cousin (whom he loathes) dance with her. Crap.
I didn’t like the male protagonist one bit and usually Eloisa James makes her characters have these witty dialogues that make me laugh, but the little conversations the both of them had was riddled with endless moaning over their stations in life. Understandably romance novellas should have insta-love as it’s pillar but this one was just annoying.
I had a hard time reconciling the female protagonist’s description with her actions. We are told she’s courageous and outspoken and blah, and indeed speaks out her mind countless times. However, after being shunned by the male protagonist and when he quite literally told her that she was the best candidate for the position of his spouse because she wouldn’t be fussy and wouldn’t do anything untowardly, she still accepted him into her bossoms.
It almost seemed like she was desperate for any form of connection with anybody and even the times she thought to question his behavior, they were weak-hearted efforts at best.
I honestly cannot say I enjoyed this one and after reading When Beauty Tamed The Beast (full review on the blog soon), I was sure this was going to be another hit. Regardless of the difference as to length. I was disappointed.
The first thing to be stated is that the title is highly deceptive and there is little to no chase in this book. Also, the blurb makes it seem like the female protagonist is somehow in possession of her wits, and unfortunately, she lost it whole tripping over herself repeatedly while attempting to drape herself all over the male protagonist’s body.
As for the male protagonist, a long time ago, his mother shunned society and eloped with her family’s solicitor and he and his siblings were the result of that happy union. This, my dear friends, is the reason he’s made it his life mission to not cause anything to stir the attention of the peerage towards him. For this reason, he surmised that a docile and supine wife from the aristocratic class would make a nice addition to their tainted bloodline.
What’s even crazy is that he’s quite open with his adoration of his parents and their blissful union but couldn’t help feeling scorned by society because of the match. The big reconciliation doesn’t happen at the end, mind you. He eventually gets an appointmemt (I’m not sure this is the word) and comes into possession of a duchy. In other words, all his concerns were eventually laid to rest by confirming all the biases.
Nothing on earth can convince me that the female protagonist actually bought the crap the male protagonist was selling so enthusiastically. I understand that the point of a novella is to cram as much detail as possible into as few pages as possible and this could make the story less plausible and vital details end up lost (or ignored) in the rush but really?
In the morning, he’s convinced she’s a wallflower and blah blah and by night (after a scorchingly hot kiss) he decides that she’s the perfect mate for him. He instantly forgets the very reason he was bent on marrying an unfastidious person after brushing her “pert” nipples and watching his cousin (whom he loathes) dance with her. Crap.
I didn’t like the male protagonist one bit and usually Eloisa James makes her characters have these witty dialogues that make me laugh, but the little conversations the both of them had was riddled with endless moaning over their stations in life. Understandably romance novellas should have insta-love as it’s pillar but this one was just annoying.
I had a hard time reconciling the female protagonist’s description with her actions. We are told she’s courageous and outspoken and blah, and indeed speaks out her mind countless times. However, after being shunned by the male protagonist and when he quite literally told her that she was the best candidate for the position of his spouse because she wouldn’t be fussy and wouldn’t do anything untowardly, she still accepted him into her bossoms.
It almost seemed like she was desperate for any form of connection with anybody and even the times she thought to question his behavior, they were weak-hearted efforts at best.
I honestly cannot say I enjoyed this one and after reading When Beauty Tamed The Beast (full review on the blog soon), I was sure this was going to be another hit. Regardless of the difference as to length. I was disappointed.
January 7, 2018
A 3.5 out of 5. A nice, quick read. This book kind of have an "unrequited love gets requited" trope to it. I found the moments when the H/h were in each other's arms and whenever they kissed just so sweet and romantic!
The synopsis doesn't tell us anything about the hero, so here goes. Possible spoilers ahead.
The synopsis doesn't tell us anything about the hero, so here goes. Possible spoilers ahead.
December 17, 2011
A novella that also serves as a prequel for the next book: The Duke is Mine. This is my first Eloisa James and I really enjoyed her writing. The story is very simple which makes sense as it's so short, but it was engaging throughout.
What was truly diabolical, though, was the inclusion of the first three chapters of each of the other books in the "Fairy Tales" series. I've ordered all that are available now and I'll be gorging myself on smart heroines and difficult heroes for the holidays.
I'm really glad I tried Ms. James. I have been craving historical romance lately but it's hard to find something that suits me. This book and the samples of the others have been a nice treat.
So why not five stars? I don't know. Probably the length. I felt like there was perhaps one more bit of business the reader was entitled to see and we didn't. But all-in-all, I'm very happy with my discovery of Eloisa James. We'll see how it goes with the full length books when I get them.
BTW - this e-book is 99 cents from Amazon and she has a couple of other bargains. She is Agency priced so I ordered her other books dead-tree-version used. But check her out to pick up a few deals, too. :)
What was truly diabolical, though, was the inclusion of the first three chapters of each of the other books in the "Fairy Tales" series. I've ordered all that are available now and I'll be gorging myself on smart heroines and difficult heroes for the holidays.
I'm really glad I tried Ms. James. I have been craving historical romance lately but it's hard to find something that suits me. This book and the samples of the others have been a nice treat.
So why not five stars? I don't know. Probably the length. I felt like there was perhaps one more bit of business the reader was entitled to see and we didn't. But all-in-all, I'm very happy with my discovery of Eloisa James. We'll see how it goes with the full length books when I get them.
BTW - this e-book is 99 cents from Amazon and she has a couple of other bargains. She is Agency priced so I ordered her other books dead-tree-version used. But check her out to pick up a few deals, too. :)
August 2, 2012
Winning the Wallflower by Eloisa James is a short story /novella set in the Regency period. Lucy's very tall and thinks she's plain. She is betrothed to Cyrus, but he doesn't appear interested in Lucy so much as he is her title. But, at least he is nice to look at. But then Lucy inherits a fortune. Now Cyrus finds his engagement broken. He also finds that he really wants Lucy and not just her title. But, he'll have to convince her.
I loved how Lucy calls Cyrus out about his initial motives. She forces him to see how shallow his goals are. She doesn't trust him for awhile and he must work to convince her of his love. HEA ending.
The book has a sizable except of another novel in the "fairy tale " series.
I loved how Lucy calls Cyrus out about his initial motives. She forces him to see how shallow his goals are. She doesn't trust him for awhile and he must work to convince her of his love. HEA ending.
The book has a sizable except of another novel in the "fairy tale " series.
September 6, 2018
As my first read by well known author Eloisa James, I know a novella is never the best way to be introduced to an author’s work, but it was what I had on my shelves.
And I do loved it, of course, everything is faster as time is limited in a novella but the characters were perfectly developed and presented, with depth and wit.
I do loved Lucy (and Marcus), she took time but once she settled herself to not accept less than what she has set her eyes on, she became a very interesting and entertaining woman.
As for Marcus, he was wrong in his way of treating Lucy and when he was finally cured from his blindness, he realized he very surly selected the perfect woman for him but he was just not aware of it.
He was a character of many flaws but they were outshined by his spirit, and when he did set to really woo Lucy, he didn’t do things half-way but his way.
Everything went fast, but I do adored their interaction, banters and chemistry. They were great together, Marcus helping Lucy to be who she was meant for and she dragging him from his procrastination.
It was a very good introduction to Eloisa James world. A definitively great read.
And I do loved it, of course, everything is faster as time is limited in a novella but the characters were perfectly developed and presented, with depth and wit.
I do loved Lucy (and Marcus), she took time but once she settled herself to not accept less than what she has set her eyes on, she became a very interesting and entertaining woman.
As for Marcus, he was wrong in his way of treating Lucy and when he was finally cured from his blindness, he realized he very surly selected the perfect woman for him but he was just not aware of it.
He was a character of many flaws but they were outshined by his spirit, and when he did set to really woo Lucy, he didn’t do things half-way but his way.
Everything went fast, but I do adored their interaction, banters and chemistry. They were great together, Marcus helping Lucy to be who she was meant for and she dragging him from his procrastination.
It was a very good introduction to Eloisa James world. A definitively great read.
September 4, 2012
What a silly little book! Certainly not correct in the details, but oh so funny written!
Sometimes I don't mind a little incorrectness in a historical romance. So what if it isn't accurate and the heroine blurts out some phrases that nobody back then would have understood? Does the story flow? Do you want to read just one more line? Then it's a good book! Job well done! :)
I like romance novels now and again. I like them to be a bit steamy even. I LOVE historical romance novels. So when I stumbled across this one for free on B&N I thought why not? And it payed off with a delightful afternoon of "getting away" into another time and space. (It's no longer free, but at $0.99 not a bad deal either)
If you can suspend your common sense and shut up the little voice in your head SCREAMING that this would NEVER have happened this way, then this little book is a hoot to read!
It was just plain fun and honestly: The love scene was HOT! I will certainly look for more by this author.
I won't say more about the book, as it is really short (it's only a Novella after all) and if I say one more sentence then I probably give it all away. Well really one can guess the outcome by the third page, but it doesn't harm the story or the joy of reading. At least not in my opinion.
Sometimes I don't mind a little incorrectness in a historical romance. So what if it isn't accurate and the heroine blurts out some phrases that nobody back then would have understood? Does the story flow? Do you want to read just one more line? Then it's a good book! Job well done! :)
I like romance novels now and again. I like them to be a bit steamy even. I LOVE historical romance novels. So when I stumbled across this one for free on B&N I thought why not? And it payed off with a delightful afternoon of "getting away" into another time and space. (It's no longer free, but at $0.99 not a bad deal either)
If you can suspend your common sense and shut up the little voice in your head SCREAMING that this would NEVER have happened this way, then this little book is a hoot to read!
It was just plain fun and honestly: The love scene was HOT! I will certainly look for more by this author.
I won't say more about the book, as it is really short (it's only a Novella after all) and if I say one more sentence then I probably give it all away. Well really one can guess the outcome by the third page, but it doesn't harm the story or the joy of reading. At least not in my opinion.
October 31, 2015
Oh, this little novella is grand. What a wonderful love story.
The heroine comes into her own. The hero wakes up. There is banter, heat, and courting.
I loved it to pieces.
The heroine comes into her own. The hero wakes up. There is banter, heat, and courting.
I loved it to pieces.
July 13, 2022
I'm a fan of this love story. I could do with less sass from the heroine. She irked my nerves quite a bit. Nonetheless, this quaint novella was enjoyable. So, onto the next. It covers Lucy's short sweet friend Olivia and her younger sister Georgiana.
March 10, 2022
This was so cute!
March 13, 2021
I really liked this novella. It had all the elements that make for a great Historical-Romance, but the downfall of any novella is it's length. There just aren't enough pages to fully develop some elements and in this case, the hero's abrupt change of heart was jarring and unexpected and at first, suspect. But, overall, the story was fun and romantic.
Lady Lucy Towerton goes from a wallflower with a fiancé who knows very little about her to an heiress with her pick of possible suitors. That she is more than a little infatuated with her handsome, tall fiancé makes her want to keep him, even though her family insists she can do much better than a no-title man with a family scandal.
Cyrus Ravensthorpe has grown up in an extremely loving family. But, his mother lost her place in society by eloping with the family lawyer. Cyrus has spent his life dedicated to reclaiming that position, first by making a fortune, then by living above reproach and securing a woman with a high position in society who could have no possible scandal attached to her. The details of who she actually is, well, they weren't important to him.
Since Cyrus and Lucy have never had a private conversation, neither knows the other at all. Lucy has all but decided to make speculation about her possibly ending the engagement a moot point. When she sets that in motion she discovers that Cyrus really wasn't interested in her and that causes her to change her mind. With the engagement ended, Cyrus is forced to really see Lucy for who she is and the idiot is struck with the fact that she is perfect for him. Now he is faced with the task of Winning the Wallflower.
Lady Lucy Towerton goes from a wallflower with a fiancé who knows very little about her to an heiress with her pick of possible suitors. That she is more than a little infatuated with her handsome, tall fiancé makes her want to keep him, even though her family insists she can do much better than a no-title man with a family scandal.
Cyrus Ravensthorpe has grown up in an extremely loving family. But, his mother lost her place in society by eloping with the family lawyer. Cyrus has spent his life dedicated to reclaiming that position, first by making a fortune, then by living above reproach and securing a woman with a high position in society who could have no possible scandal attached to her. The details of who she actually is, well, they weren't important to him.
Since Cyrus and Lucy have never had a private conversation, neither knows the other at all. Lucy has all but decided to make speculation about her possibly ending the engagement a moot point. When she sets that in motion she discovers that Cyrus really wasn't interested in her and that causes her to change her mind. With the engagement ended, Cyrus is forced to really see Lucy for who she is and the idiot is struck with the fact that she is perfect for him. Now he is faced with the task of Winning the Wallflower.
March 21, 2015
Winning the Wallflower was sweet. I have learned from EJ stories that I often enjoy her novellas more than her novels. In her novellas, there is less angst, fewer secondary characters,and a happier story.
As a side note, We also meet Olivia from The Prince is Mine in this novella. Upon meeting her, I'm convinced that I would not like her story...I did not like her! More support for me to stick with novellas!
However, I did like Lucy, the star of this tale. She was betrothed to a handsome man who thought she would be biddable and simple. Then, Lucy inherits a fortune, and with that, a backbone. She stands up for herself and throws over her fiancé...not because she thinks she can get a title, but because she thinks she can find someone that truly sees her and cares for her. The fiancé sees the error of his ways and starts on a path to win her back. I like heroes that recognize they screwed up, apologize for it, and then take steps to remedy the mistake. This was the case here. Lucy doesn't hold a grudge and our hero truly let's himself live a little.
Fun and sweet and uncomplicated. A good antidote for overly angsty books :)
As a side note, We also meet Olivia from The Prince is Mine in this novella. Upon meeting her, I'm convinced that I would not like her story...I did not like her! More support for me to stick with novellas!
However, I did like Lucy, the star of this tale. She was betrothed to a handsome man who thought she would be biddable and simple. Then, Lucy inherits a fortune, and with that, a backbone. She stands up for herself and throws over her fiancé...not because she thinks she can get a title, but because she thinks she can find someone that truly sees her and cares for her. The fiancé sees the error of his ways and starts on a path to win her back. I like heroes that recognize they screwed up, apologize for it, and then take steps to remedy the mistake. This was the case here. Lucy doesn't hold a grudge and our hero truly let's himself live a little.
Fun and sweet and uncomplicated. A good antidote for overly angsty books :)
December 18, 2011
A delightful novella from Eloisa James. She is one of my favorite authors ever, and I don't care how many times I'll repeat that.
Even though it was short, it had very likable characters. Lucy was so funny and smart, I love that in a heroine. I liked that she decided she wouldn't settle for someone who didn't love her, not may HR heroines care about that. Cyrus was so proper, arrogant and had a temper, even though he seemed so stayed, my favorite type of hero :D they go down so hard that it's a pleasure to read.
If you want a short, funny and well written Christmas read, this would be it!
I wanted to add quotes, but I got so caught up in the story that I forgot to write them down. Anyway, if it were after me I would write the whole thing :D
Even though it was short, it had very likable characters. Lucy was so funny and smart, I love that in a heroine. I liked that she decided she wouldn't settle for someone who didn't love her, not may HR heroines care about that. Cyrus was so proper, arrogant and had a temper, even though he seemed so stayed, my favorite type of hero :D they go down so hard that it's a pleasure to read.
If you want a short, funny and well written Christmas read, this would be it!
I wanted to add quotes, but I got so caught up in the story that I forgot to write them down. Anyway, if it were after me I would write the whole thing :D
April 8, 2012
3.5 stars
After reading The Duke Is Mine (#3 in her Fairy Tales series), I wasn't chomping at the bit to jump back into that world. I didn't find the last book's characters all that fascinating, and there was such a slim connection to the fairytale that I felt kind of ripped off. This book wasn't much different in terms of the 'fairytale' part. I still have no idea if it was based on any particular one, 'cause it seemed more like a general Poor Girl Gets Some Money kind of story to me.
But at least the characters were very likable this time around. I would recommend this one for someone looking for a short romance to kill the time.
After reading The Duke Is Mine (#3 in her Fairy Tales series), I wasn't chomping at the bit to jump back into that world. I didn't find the last book's characters all that fascinating, and there was such a slim connection to the fairytale that I felt kind of ripped off. This book wasn't much different in terms of the 'fairytale' part. I still have no idea if it was based on any particular one, 'cause it seemed more like a general Poor Girl Gets Some Money kind of story to me.
But at least the characters were very likable this time around. I would recommend this one for someone looking for a short romance to kill the time.
September 3, 2019
I apparently read this 7 years ago (I guess?) but I can't remember what I did last Tuesday, so I'll just pretend the past isn't a real country.
Short and sweet and utterly unbelievable, just how I like my historical romances. Not as funny as Tessa Dare's books, but nowhere near as cracky as some others out there, whose names I will refrain from mentioning. Well written and easy to read, though the pacing was a bit out there. I'll blame that on the novella format, necessitating a faster route from start to finish.
I'm a giant sucker for fairy tales and love retellings even more. I'm not entirely sure which fairy tale this was a riff on, but it had that fairy-godmother flavor so I'm not going to think too hard on that (best to not think to hard in general with this genre).
Short and sweet and utterly unbelievable, just how I like my historical romances. Not as funny as Tessa Dare's books, but nowhere near as cracky as some others out there, whose names I will refrain from mentioning. Well written and easy to read, though the pacing was a bit out there. I'll blame that on the novella format, necessitating a faster route from start to finish.
I'm a giant sucker for fairy tales and love retellings even more. I'm not entirely sure which fairy tale this was a riff on, but it had that fairy-godmother flavor so I'm not going to think too hard on that (best to not think to hard in general with this genre).
December 26, 2011
This was the first book of E. James I've read and it looks like it will be my last. I mean, what's the point when you have to skip so much. It just really annoys me when people mistake physical attraction for love. Stupid--in what could have been a good story.
September 17, 2015
This is the second book I've read by Eloisa James and I'm sorry to say I was disappointed again. The writing didn't do it for me and there was just something missing.
I have a lot of books by her stored in my kindle, so I hope I find at least one favourite among them.
I have a lot of books by her stored in my kindle, so I hope I find at least one favourite among them.
December 21, 2011
I wish the story was a little longer.
February 15, 2021
I have to admit I kinda loved Lucy. I loved her snark, I loved that her change in circumstance allowed her to realize that she really did deserve it all. She wasn't going to accept less than the best even if it meant losing the guy she always knew she still kinda wanted. If we had asked for her hand for the wrong reasons, then it wasn't meant to be. She wanted the fairytale. Once she found her feet I adored how well she stood up to Cyrus. He's had a plan and she was just a cog in it, right up until the point she stood up to him and made him see who she really was.
September 24, 2012
3.5 stars
This is a charming little novella that shows the true power that women have -- only available once we realize just who we are and what we want. It's a tidy little lesson in self-confidence and in seeing ourselves through others' eyes. Yes, sometimes others' eyes can be harsh; but often, our own are so much harsher.
Lady Lucy Towerton is engaged to be married to Cyrus Ravensthorpe. Ravensthorpe is quite tall, quite beautiful, and quite aloof. He asked Lucy's father for her hand, but never asked her. He spends time each day with Lucy - at the appropriate hour for the appropriate amount of time and no mnore, yet he shows no personal interest in her; despite being engaged, he's never asked to call her by her first name nor given her permission to call him by his. Yet Ravensthorpe isn't part of the aristocracy; he's amassed wealth and position, but no title. Lucy's father is a baronet, low on the title totem pole, but titled.
But Lucy is tall - taller than most men, and thus she rues her unfortunate last name "TOWERton". Lucy also doesn't feel in the least pretty; she thinks she's plain and dull. A wallflower happier hanging out with the dowager duchesses than those her own age. But now, one of Lucy's aunts has left her a vast fortune, and Lucy's mother is determined that her daughter can do better than an untitled merchant.
Lucy doesn't want to break the engagement, because she's sure she'll never find another man to her liking, and probably not a man taller than she is. But her friend, Olivia, shows Lucy that she deserves better than the cool, aloof Ravensthorpe, and so Lucy screws her courage to the sticking point and breaks the engagement. Ravensthorpe is a bit surprised, and in the heat of the moment, the wallflower Lucy shows her true colors - she's passionate, vibrant, and anything BUT a wallflower!
Perhaps it's that she's no longer his? Perhaps it's the spark that he sees in her, but suddenly, Cyrus Ravensthorpe can't think of anything but Lucy and winning her back. He goes against his own strict views and discipline that have gotten him thus far in life to pursue her.
But can he win her heart?
----------------
A light, fluffy, sweet confection that's as welcome as a luscious bon-bon. It melts slowly and sweetly over the palate and leaves a satisfying smile on your face.
This is a charming little novella that shows the true power that women have -- only available once we realize just who we are and what we want. It's a tidy little lesson in self-confidence and in seeing ourselves through others' eyes. Yes, sometimes others' eyes can be harsh; but often, our own are so much harsher.
Lady Lucy Towerton is engaged to be married to Cyrus Ravensthorpe. Ravensthorpe is quite tall, quite beautiful, and quite aloof. He asked Lucy's father for her hand, but never asked her. He spends time each day with Lucy - at the appropriate hour for the appropriate amount of time and no mnore, yet he shows no personal interest in her; despite being engaged, he's never asked to call her by her first name nor given her permission to call him by his. Yet Ravensthorpe isn't part of the aristocracy; he's amassed wealth and position, but no title. Lucy's father is a baronet, low on the title totem pole, but titled.
But Lucy is tall - taller than most men, and thus she rues her unfortunate last name "TOWERton". Lucy also doesn't feel in the least pretty; she thinks she's plain and dull. A wallflower happier hanging out with the dowager duchesses than those her own age. But now, one of Lucy's aunts has left her a vast fortune, and Lucy's mother is determined that her daughter can do better than an untitled merchant.
Lucy doesn't want to break the engagement, because she's sure she'll never find another man to her liking, and probably not a man taller than she is. But her friend, Olivia, shows Lucy that she deserves better than the cool, aloof Ravensthorpe, and so Lucy screws her courage to the sticking point and breaks the engagement. Ravensthorpe is a bit surprised, and in the heat of the moment, the wallflower Lucy shows her true colors - she's passionate, vibrant, and anything BUT a wallflower!
Perhaps it's that she's no longer his? Perhaps it's the spark that he sees in her, but suddenly, Cyrus Ravensthorpe can't think of anything but Lucy and winning her back. He goes against his own strict views and discipline that have gotten him thus far in life to pursue her.
But can he win her heart?
----------------
A light, fluffy, sweet confection that's as welcome as a luscious bon-bon. It melts slowly and sweetly over the palate and leaves a satisfying smile on your face.
December 19, 2024
it took a while for cyrus to recognise that lucy is a gem and that he shouldn't be using her as a part of his plan. lucy might be a shy wallflower but i loved the moments when she bravely confronted cyrus. unexpectedly, the once wallflower is put in the spotlight after inheriting a sum of money from a relative, thus making her an heiress. at first, cyrus was unfeeling, brooding and altogether uninterested in knowing his future wife. apart from dancing that one time, nothing else ever happened. after awhile, it was obvious that he had a romantic side that surfaced when he truly opened his eyes and look at lucy.
books in the series:
1. a kiss at midnight: ✰✰✰✰
1.5. storming the castle: ✰✰✰✰
2. when beauty tamed the beast: ✰✰✰✰
2.5. winning the wallflower: ✰✰✰✰
3. the duke is mine: ✰✰✰
4. the ugly duchess: ✰✰✰✰
4.5. seduced by a pirate
5. once upon a tower
books in the series:
1. a kiss at midnight: ✰✰✰✰
1.5. storming the castle: ✰✰✰✰
2. when beauty tamed the beast: ✰✰✰✰
2.5. winning the wallflower: ✰✰✰✰
3. the duke is mine: ✰✰✰
4. the ugly duchess: ✰✰✰✰
4.5. seduced by a pirate
5. once upon a tower
January 15, 2012
I cannot say enough about Eloisa James' fairy tales. I love them. They are whimsical, lyrical, beautifully written. I fall into them immediately and am completely immersed in the tale - so much so that when they end I look up and around, blinking in surprise to find myself still sitting on my couch.
No surprise then, that I loved this story. Yes, it's yet another take on the tall, beanpole-ish wallflower and the breathtakingly handsome suitor - but it is wonderfully written, with enough differences to keep it interesting.
I ate this up with a spoon, and can't wait to read The Duke Is Mine.
4 stars
No surprise then, that I loved this story. Yes, it's yet another take on the tall, beanpole-ish wallflower and the breathtakingly handsome suitor - but it is wonderfully written, with enough differences to keep it interesting.
I ate this up with a spoon, and can't wait to read The Duke Is Mine.
4 stars
August 24, 2012
This is not a sequel to When Beauty Tamed the Beast, it is not related to that book in any way. This is a prequel to The Duke Is Mine. I usually like historical romances with wallflower theme, but this novella did not manage to engage my attention.
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