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Designing Debutantes #2
Un comte pour Eliza
Fans of Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton won’t want to miss this new story from the legendary New York Times bestselling author as she brings a fresh new hook to Regency romance with her series about three event planners who’ve rejected working as governesses to become party planners to London’s elite ton.
A young military widow, Eliza Pierce is enjoying both freedom and financial success as part of Elegant Occasions. When her late husband’s best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, hires Elegant Occasions to help another young widow of an officer become part of high society, Eliza wonders why. Is the woman a relative? Or is she the earl’s mistress and her adorable toddler his child? If so, why does he take Eliza in his arms every chance he gets . . .
Foxstead’s family situation makes it difficult for him to marry, so his visceral attraction to his best friend’s widow is an unwelcome complication. Burdened by family secrets and those of his commanding officer, he’s determined to do his duty even when it means being around Eliza every day. But how can he resist when the fetching Eliza keeps tempting him to break his own rules? For if he dares to expose the truth, will she ever forgive him? Or will she banish him from her life forever . . .
A young military widow, Eliza Pierce is enjoying both freedom and financial success as part of Elegant Occasions. When her late husband’s best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, hires Elegant Occasions to help another young widow of an officer become part of high society, Eliza wonders why. Is the woman a relative? Or is she the earl’s mistress and her adorable toddler his child? If so, why does he take Eliza in his arms every chance he gets . . .
Foxstead’s family situation makes it difficult for him to marry, so his visceral attraction to his best friend’s widow is an unwelcome complication. Burdened by family secrets and those of his commanding officer, he’s determined to do his duty even when it means being around Eliza every day. But how can he resist when the fetching Eliza keeps tempting him to break his own rules? For if he dares to expose the truth, will she ever forgive him? Or will she banish him from her life forever . . .
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 28, 2023
710 people are currently reading
10991 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Jeffries
86 books4,794 followersSabrina Jeffries is the NYT bestselling author of over 50 novels and works of short fiction (some written under the pseudonyms Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas). Whatever time not spent writing in a coffee-fueled haze of dreams and madness is spent traveling with her husband and adult autistic son or indulging in one of her passions—jigsaw puzzles, chocolate, and music. With over 11 million books published in print and electronically in 25 different languages, the North Carolina author never regrets tossing aside a budding career in academics for the sheer joy of writing fun fiction, and hopes that one day a book of hers will end up saving the world.
She always dreams big.
She always dreams big.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 472 reviews
June 6, 2023
✨Can Hannah have an Earl? Pretty please?✨
I must immediately read Sabrina’s backlist because oh my gosh do I love her writing!!! I read an Earl for Eliza (What Happens in the Ballroom) in one night with zero regrets. Nathaniel and Eliza were a lot of fun to meet and very easy to love.
I will say, their relationship definitely went through some tough stuff and there were a lot of lies and hidden truths on Nathaniel’s side. I think he had a pretty good reason, but Eliza is understandably mad and she made some wonderful points. I found that the breakup actually made the story stronger and I had so much respect for her.
But altogether, if you’re not into lies, maybe stay away from this one. I found the mystery of them interesting and I was never angry, but I do think the cheery writing and great characters helped appease me. I was only ever vexed by Jocelin, but even then all was good in the end and she made the right choices. I was maybe a little less giddy than book one, but more giggly.
I’m rounding up to five stars because I know I will be rereading this and I know the audiobook will be such a fun time. I have to assume it’s going to be narrated by Beverley A. Crick and let me tell you I LOVE her. I think the audiobook is part of the reason I loved book one so much. Sabrina Jeffries writes such funny and witty dialogue and Crick absolutely delivers. I was laughing out loud like a weirdo while reading this book and can’t wait to hear her interpretation.
The set-up for Verity’s book has me so confused and so excited. I nearly cried when I read it won’t be coming out until 2024! The curse of reading ARCs! Truly I cannot wait I will be requesting that copy so fast. I really recommend this series. The covers are a bit innocuous, but the stories themselves pack a punch and will satisfy any historical romance fan.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️*/5
*I think there were two scenes, one in a stationary carriage and one in her bedroom. I think we could’ve used one final scene, or at least a full scene in the epilogue! Neither of these two were virgins and while they steamed up some windows, I think they could’ve burnt down the house. Nathaniel definitely had a bit of a mouth on him.
(From what I can tell this book used to be called An Earl for Eliza? While I love the new font on the updated cover, I’m rather confused why they changed the naming convention.)
CW: Gaslighting and other psychological manipulation (her former husband)
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
I must immediately read Sabrina’s backlist because oh my gosh do I love her writing!!! I read an Earl for Eliza (What Happens in the Ballroom) in one night with zero regrets. Nathaniel and Eliza were a lot of fun to meet and very easy to love.
I will say, their relationship definitely went through some tough stuff and there were a lot of lies and hidden truths on Nathaniel’s side. I think he had a pretty good reason, but Eliza is understandably mad and she made some wonderful points. I found that the breakup actually made the story stronger and I had so much respect for her.
But altogether, if you’re not into lies, maybe stay away from this one. I found the mystery of them interesting and I was never angry, but I do think the cheery writing and great characters helped appease me. I was only ever vexed by Jocelin, but even then all was good in the end and she made the right choices. I was maybe a little less giddy than book one, but more giggly.
I’m rounding up to five stars because I know I will be rereading this and I know the audiobook will be such a fun time. I have to assume it’s going to be narrated by Beverley A. Crick and let me tell you I LOVE her. I think the audiobook is part of the reason I loved book one so much. Sabrina Jeffries writes such funny and witty dialogue and Crick absolutely delivers. I was laughing out loud like a weirdo while reading this book and can’t wait to hear her interpretation.
The set-up for Verity’s book has me so confused and so excited. I nearly cried when I read it won’t be coming out until 2024! The curse of reading ARCs! Truly I cannot wait I will be requesting that copy so fast. I really recommend this series. The covers are a bit innocuous, but the stories themselves pack a punch and will satisfy any historical romance fan.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️*/5
*I think there were two scenes, one in a stationary carriage and one in her bedroom. I think we could’ve used one final scene, or at least a full scene in the epilogue! Neither of these two were virgins and while they steamed up some windows, I think they could’ve burnt down the house. Nathaniel definitely had a bit of a mouth on him.
(From what I can tell this book used to be called An Earl for Eliza? While I love the new font on the updated cover, I’m rather confused why they changed the naming convention.)
CW: Gaslighting and other psychological manipulation (her former husband)
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
April 5, 2023
What Happens in the Ballroom by Sabrina Jeffries
2nd book in the Designing Debutants series. Historical romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Widow Eliza Pierce helps run Elegant Occasions. Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, goes to Elegant Occasions to find a husband in society for a young military widow. The two are attracted to each other but secrets can cause misunderstandings.
This couple has sparks! He’s trying to help at a cost to himself and does it unselfishly. The carriage ride was amusingly frisky. The added depth of a storyline beyond the ton and balls and debutantes was refreshing.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
2nd book in the Designing Debutants series. Historical romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Widow Eliza Pierce helps run Elegant Occasions. Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, goes to Elegant Occasions to find a husband in society for a young military widow. The two are attracted to each other but secrets can cause misunderstandings.
This couple has sparks! He’s trying to help at a cost to himself and does it unselfishly. The carriage ride was amusingly frisky. The added depth of a storyline beyond the ton and balls and debutantes was refreshing.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
November 15, 2024
This is a well-written, entertaining, historical fiction romance novel. It has wonderful, likable characters, engaging banter, secrets, a lovely bond between supportive sisters, a heart-warming romance, and a happily ever after ending. This is the second entry in Ms. Jeffries' outstanding Designing Debutantes series, and it can be read as a stand alone. I am looking forward to reading Verity's story with great anticipation. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Ms. Beverley A. Crick, has a lovely, captivating voice, and does an excellent job voicing the characters.
Thank you, Goodreads and Kensington Books, I received the paperback copy of this book as a Goodreads giveaway winner on November 14, 2024!
Thank you, Goodreads and Kensington Books, I received the paperback copy of this book as a Goodreads giveaway winner on November 14, 2024!
March 22, 2023
One of the things I love about reading is that I can still come across an author who has apparently written over fifty books in one of my favourite genres and I have not read one of them. Well I have now and I can safely say there will be more to come!
What Happens in the Ballroom is a Regency Romance about a group of sisters who have their own business helping prospective debutantes make themselves successful. The first book which I have not yet read featured Diana and this one centres around Eliza who is a war widow. The object of her affections is Nathaniel, formerly a close friend of the departed husband.
Of course the path of true love is not easy and Nathaniel in particular causes some major obstacles along the way. There is a lot of humour and banter between the two which is entertaining and well written. This is a light hearted and enjoyable read and I recommend it to fans of the genre.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
What Happens in the Ballroom is a Regency Romance about a group of sisters who have their own business helping prospective debutantes make themselves successful. The first book which I have not yet read featured Diana and this one centres around Eliza who is a war widow. The object of her affections is Nathaniel, formerly a close friend of the departed husband.
Of course the path of true love is not easy and Nathaniel in particular causes some major obstacles along the way. There is a lot of humour and banter between the two which is entertaining and well written. This is a light hearted and enjoyable read and I recommend it to fans of the genre.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 26, 2023
This was cute and totally Jeffries’ style with some steam, a bit of story and a light feel. Most of this author’s books have a similar theme with a smart, independent heroine and a hero who grumbles around trying not to feel his feelings. This is the second in her Designing Debutantes series, featuring Eliza, the eldest sister. She is widowed and impoverished and works in a Regency party planning business with her two sisters. Her deceased, wastrel of a husband’s best friend is her love interest and he’s a bit of a dolt. He made many dubious decisions throughout the book but the heroine didn’t put up with his shenanigans and made him work for it. There is a satisfying element to Jeffries books because we don’t ever have a damsel in distress, doormat or featherbrained heroine and the hero is usually the one putting the wrong foot forward. I prefer this dynamic because in these m/f romances, I like to relate to the heroine and put myself in her shoes. Since I am not an idiot, I don’t like idiotic FMCs.
This story isn’t deep or angsty and is a pretty easy read. I recommend it as brain candy or palate cleansing, or for anyone who wants to dip their toe in HR but not be bogged down by history or fancy prose. I burned through this book in a day, but probably won’t remember much of it in a month. But that’s ok, I had fun.
Thanks to Netgalley for the copy, my views are honest and unbiased, as usual.
This story isn’t deep or angsty and is a pretty easy read. I recommend it as brain candy or palate cleansing, or for anyone who wants to dip their toe in HR but not be bogged down by history or fancy prose. I burned through this book in a day, but probably won’t remember much of it in a month. But that’s ok, I had fun.
Thanks to Netgalley for the copy, my views are honest and unbiased, as usual.
March 26, 2023
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and the heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
It’s not totally necessary. You’ll get a touch of character depth for the heroine, Eliza, in book 1 but nothing extensive.
Basic plot:
Nathaniel, her late husband’s friend, asks Eliza’s help in launching a young widow close to him into society.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1812)
- London setting
- Best friends spouse
- Child in the story – a side character has a young son that pops in and out of page time
- A touch of instalust here
- Widow heroine (didn’t have a good marriage)
- Former soldier (Earl) hero
- Working women – heroine owns a business with her sisters called Elegant Occasions
- Medium steam – it’s a 2 steam but the page count felt shorter in this one?
Ages:
- Hero is 30, heroine is 27
My thoughts:
I have read a lot of Sabrina Jeffries (This is my 21st novel by her!) and I generally do really like her. But, I find that a lot of her heroines and heroes just feel the same. Especially her heroes. And even though it’s been awhile since I have read her, I thought this one was kind of par for a lot of her other books and nothing really stood out to me or grabbed me.
I’m not a huge fan of secret keeping, or instalust really (it makes the books lower on tension and feels for me usually) so I think if those things are your jam you will enjoy this one quite a bit more than me. As it was, it was a pleasant read, but I don’t see myself returning to this novel. I liked the first book in the series quite a bit more than this one.
I also saw something about the title being changed and it was going to be An Earl for Eliza? Or something like that? I’m kind of sad about the title change. I think it works better (yay alliteration) and matches with the title from book 1. But those are just random thoughts!
I think there was quite a bit of side characters at play here with Nathaniel’s widow he’s trying to sponsor and the baggage from the past, I think the couple and their romance just got a bit lost for me here.
Some random notes that mean nothing
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and the heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
It’s not totally necessary. You’ll get a touch of character depth for the heroine, Eliza, in book 1 but nothing extensive.
Basic plot:
Nathaniel, her late husband’s friend, asks Eliza’s help in launching a young widow close to him into society.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency time period (1812)
- London setting
- Best friends spouse
- Child in the story – a side character has a young son that pops in and out of page time
- A touch of instalust here
- Widow heroine (didn’t have a good marriage)
- Former soldier (Earl) hero
- Working women – heroine owns a business with her sisters called Elegant Occasions
- Medium steam – it’s a 2 steam but the page count felt shorter in this one?
Ages:
- Hero is 30, heroine is 27
My thoughts:
I have read a lot of Sabrina Jeffries (This is my 21st novel by her!) and I generally do really like her. But, I find that a lot of her heroines and heroes just feel the same. Especially her heroes. And even though it’s been awhile since I have read her, I thought this one was kind of par for a lot of her other books and nothing really stood out to me or grabbed me.
I’m not a huge fan of secret keeping, or instalust really (it makes the books lower on tension and feels for me usually) so I think if those things are your jam you will enjoy this one quite a bit more than me. As it was, it was a pleasant read, but I don’t see myself returning to this novel. I liked the first book in the series quite a bit more than this one.
I also saw something about the title being changed and it was going to be An Earl for Eliza? Or something like that? I’m kind of sad about the title change. I think it works better (yay alliteration) and matches with the title from book 1. But those are just random thoughts!
I think there was quite a bit of side characters at play here with Nathaniel’s widow he’s trying to sponsor and the baggage from the past, I think the couple and their romance just got a bit lost for me here.
Some random notes that mean nothing
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
October 28, 2024
The best authors of Romance and Historical Romance all have something in common, besides a hot romance, that is. They all write a suspense/mystery element into their plots. Straight romance is soooo boring, to me anyway. But when you add the suspense/mystery element, in addition to the hot romance, of course, you have a wonderful, exciting plot that makes for a fantastic story. I don't know why, but so few authors write this way. And, yes, Sabrina Jeffries does it and does it very well.
Eliza Pierce has survived a lot in her life. A whirlwind romance and elopement, being disowned by her father, the scandal caused by said father and the death of her husband in battle. She picked herself up and with her sisters created Elegant Occasions the premier party planning service to London's society elite. She has no need for a man - she has financial success and the freedom her status as a widow affords her. When her dead husband's best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, approaches her to guide his young ward into society she agrees. But there are some things that Nathanial is keeping secret and that could make problems for Elegant Occasions. But the biggest problem is Eliza's hot attraction for the handsome Earl even when she knows he has a rakehell reputation and is keeping secrets.
Eliza Pierce has survived a lot in her life. A whirlwind romance and elopement, being disowned by her father, the scandal caused by said father and the death of her husband in battle. She picked herself up and with her sisters created Elegant Occasions the premier party planning service to London's society elite. She has no need for a man - she has financial success and the freedom her status as a widow affords her. When her dead husband's best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, approaches her to guide his young ward into society she agrees. But there are some things that Nathanial is keeping secret and that could make problems for Elegant Occasions. But the biggest problem is Eliza's hot attraction for the handsome Earl even when she knows he has a rakehell reputation and is keeping secrets.
March 21, 2023
DOESN'T BRING MUCH NEW TO THE GENRE
Actual rating: 2.5⭐
This is one of those books that I didn't actually like, but didn't dislike either simply because it felt familiar. I've read this book before. These characters are not new to me. The plot twists didn't surprise me. The romance didn't floor me. The only slightly innovative part about this book was Eliza - a regency woman - actually owning and running a successful business.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Characters: Nathaniel and Eliza are our two main characters. And they are perfectly okay. They don't offend anyone. But they certainly didn't thrill me either. Because they are basically stock characters. Especially Nathaniel. I have encountered him a million times before. He didn't bring anything new to the table. On the contrary, he felt a bit wooden to me.
Cliché: If there is one cliché I am fed up with in romance books it is secret-keeping. Yes, it is a realistic scenario. It could certainly happen in real life. But lets be honest, we all know how it's going to pan out in a romance novel. The truth is gonna come out and it is going to cause a rift between the main couple. This was no different.
Sam: Eliza is a widow. Her late husband, Sam, was one of Nathaniel's friends. But it is almost as if Sam isn't actually dead. Because Eliza and Nathaniel keep bringing him up, over and over again. Pretty much every time they have an encounter, Sam is brought up. Even when they are about to get it on, Eliza feels like this is the perfect time to start talking about Sam. Whenever he made an appearance, all romance was sucked out of the encounter for me. It ruined the chemistry and the romance between Eliza and Nathaniel in my opinion.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Actual rating: 2.5⭐
This is one of those books that I didn't actually like, but didn't dislike either simply because it felt familiar. I've read this book before. These characters are not new to me. The plot twists didn't surprise me. The romance didn't floor me. The only slightly innovative part about this book was Eliza - a regency woman - actually owning and running a successful business.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Characters: Nathaniel and Eliza are our two main characters. And they are perfectly okay. They don't offend anyone. But they certainly didn't thrill me either. Because they are basically stock characters. Especially Nathaniel. I have encountered him a million times before. He didn't bring anything new to the table. On the contrary, he felt a bit wooden to me.
Cliché: If there is one cliché I am fed up with in romance books it is secret-keeping. Yes, it is a realistic scenario. It could certainly happen in real life. But lets be honest, we all know how it's going to pan out in a romance novel. The truth is gonna come out and it is going to cause a rift between the main couple. This was no different.
Sam: Eliza is a widow. Her late husband, Sam, was one of Nathaniel's friends. But it is almost as if Sam isn't actually dead. Because Eliza and Nathaniel keep bringing him up, over and over again. Pretty much every time they have an encounter, Sam is brought up. Even when they are about to get it on, Eliza feels like this is the perfect time to start talking about Sam. Whenever he made an appearance, all romance was sucked out of the encounter for me. It ruined the chemistry and the romance between Eliza and Nathaniel in my opinion.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Blog Post: Which Book Should you read next based on your favourite Jane Austen Heroine
May 12, 2023
The Designing Debutantes series feels like a return to form for Sabrina Jeffries! This second installment pairs Eliza, the eldest sister and army widow, with Lord Foxstead, earl and army veteran (oh, and her deceased husband's former BFF). Nathanial has always been intrigued by Eliza, but since she was his bestie's girl, he stayed away. Now that she's free, he's both doing his best to resist her ... but also putting himself in her proximity as much as he can. His ward, Jocelin, needs a sponsor in society, so Nathanial hires Elegant Occasions to ease her way.
This is a quick read that includes some complicated family history, a carriage ride (but without any horses), and some very fun Regency food.
33-Word Summaries:
Laine: Eliza owns a business. Her husband is dead. Her husband’s BFF has a new ward. Eliza is going to launch the ward. The ward is a “widow” with a son. Sex happens unprompted?
Meg: Foxstead needs Eliza’s help. Too bad he just can’t stop jumping her bones every time they’re alone together. // What is it about carriages? Even when they stay in the carriage house they’re hot.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
This is a quick read that includes some complicated family history, a carriage ride (but without any horses), and some very fun Regency food.
33-Word Summaries:
Laine: Eliza owns a business. Her husband is dead. Her husband’s BFF has a new ward. Eliza is going to launch the ward. The ward is a “widow” with a son. Sex happens unprompted?
Meg: Foxstead needs Eliza’s help. Too bad he just can’t stop jumping her bones every time they’re alone together. // What is it about carriages? Even when they stay in the carriage house they’re hot.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
February 13, 2023
Widow Eliza Pierce is enjoying the freedom of running her business, Elegant Occasions, with her sisters. Eliza is suspicious when her late husband’s best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, Earl of Foxstead, hires them to help an officer's young widow become part of society. Sworn to secrecy, Foxstead is trying to honor a dying wish while keeping his feelings for Eliza in check.
This is the second book in the Designing Debutantes series. It stands alone fairly well, although the origins of the sisters’ business begin in the first book.
This book was a little dry for me. The characters already had an attraction to each other but, for me, there wasn’t quite enough development of their relationship. I did think the story improved a bit in the last third as all the secrets were finally revealed.
Tropes: Working Heroine, Widow, Second Chance, Dead Husband's Best Friend, Forced Proximity
Steam: 2
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #WhatHappensintheBallroom #NetGalley
This is the second book in the Designing Debutantes series. It stands alone fairly well, although the origins of the sisters’ business begin in the first book.
This book was a little dry for me. The characters already had an attraction to each other but, for me, there wasn’t quite enough development of their relationship. I did think the story improved a bit in the last third as all the secrets were finally revealed.
Tropes: Working Heroine, Widow, Second Chance, Dead Husband's Best Friend, Forced Proximity
Steam: 2
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #WhatHappensintheBallroom #NetGalley
September 10, 2023
It was okay. It was similar to the first book. One of the hero’s secrets was obvious from the beginning. Nothing memorable.
February 20, 2023
Second chance romance!
Eliza Pierce is a widow! Happily! Her husband Samuel had eloped with her in an attempt, it now seems, to get his hands on her dowry. Not happening! Eliza’s father refused to come to the party! Now Sam is dead, killed at the Battle of Talavera. The rake she’d known as Sam's friend, Nathaniel Stanton, Earl of Foxstead, has returned as guardian to a young widow and her child. Nathan hires Elegant Occasions to introduce Jocelin into society with a view to having her remarry.
Eliza’s sure there’s some secret about Jocelin but doesn’t know what it could be. Her mind is filled with Nathan. She feels an irresistible pull towards him, although she’s no pushover.
With the little that Sam is discussed I get the feeling he had exercised sort of coercive control over Eliza. He actively did not want her “following the drum.” Gentlewomen did not do that. Although Eliza later finds out that plenty did. Whatever it was, Eliza has definitely reached the ‘Never Again’ stage.
So, we we have a guardian who wants to marry his charge off quickly. Why? Is she Nathan’s mistress? Sam’s mistress?
We have a woman who deserves better than she’s had.
We have a viscount with his share of secrets who finds himself falling in love but hasn’t quite realized it yet.
Nathan’s so busy protecting his secrets he nearly lets the biggest one slide. How he really feels about Eliza.
Maybe that’s why I felt the chemistry between between the two is not quite there.
Still, it all rounds up to make a fairly enjoyable romance, although not the zinger I usually associate with Jeffries.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Eliza Pierce is a widow! Happily! Her husband Samuel had eloped with her in an attempt, it now seems, to get his hands on her dowry. Not happening! Eliza’s father refused to come to the party! Now Sam is dead, killed at the Battle of Talavera. The rake she’d known as Sam's friend, Nathaniel Stanton, Earl of Foxstead, has returned as guardian to a young widow and her child. Nathan hires Elegant Occasions to introduce Jocelin into society with a view to having her remarry.
Eliza’s sure there’s some secret about Jocelin but doesn’t know what it could be. Her mind is filled with Nathan. She feels an irresistible pull towards him, although she’s no pushover.
With the little that Sam is discussed I get the feeling he had exercised sort of coercive control over Eliza. He actively did not want her “following the drum.” Gentlewomen did not do that. Although Eliza later finds out that plenty did. Whatever it was, Eliza has definitely reached the ‘Never Again’ stage.
So, we we have a guardian who wants to marry his charge off quickly. Why? Is she Nathan’s mistress? Sam’s mistress?
We have a woman who deserves better than she’s had.
We have a viscount with his share of secrets who finds himself falling in love but hasn’t quite realized it yet.
Nathan’s so busy protecting his secrets he nearly lets the biggest one slide. How he really feels about Eliza.
Maybe that’s why I felt the chemistry between between the two is not quite there.
Still, it all rounds up to make a fairly enjoyable romance, although not the zinger I usually associate with Jeffries.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
March 9, 2023
Sweet and enjoyable! I loved this one so much more than the first book! Eliza and Nathaniel have amazing chemistry that includes both tender and funny moments, and I could understand both of their motivations given their backstories. Nathaniel's family secrets being a hindrance worked a lot better than a similar scenario did for the hero in book #1, and I couldn't stop turning the pages to see what would happen! Overall I would recommend this one and can't wait for Verity's story in book #3 (in which she will be paired with the mysterious Phantom Fellow, perhaps?)!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 15, 2023
I loved the first book in this series and this one was definitely its match.
Eliza was a strong, independent working woman during a time when women of her social status did not work. I enjoyed watching her handle the challenge set before her and her co-owners. She was sharp minded and quick to see positives or negatives in any given situation. Her reactions to Nathaniel entertained me from beginning to end.
Nathaniel was totally swoony! He wasn’t slow to make a move and when he did, holy heck! My Kindle was close to steaming! I couldn’t help but smile when he was so blind to a certain situation regarding someone else’s emotions towards him. Men!
Eliza and Nathaniel were incredible together. I loved the uncertainty of where their relationship was going to go. Obviously, I knew where it ultimately was going to end but getting there was so much fun. With secrets on both sides, they had a good bit to work out, especially on Nathaniel’s part. With a perfect epilogue for them and a bit of build up for the next book, this is definitely my new favorite by this author.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Eliza was a strong, independent working woman during a time when women of her social status did not work. I enjoyed watching her handle the challenge set before her and her co-owners. She was sharp minded and quick to see positives or negatives in any given situation. Her reactions to Nathaniel entertained me from beginning to end.
Nathaniel was totally swoony! He wasn’t slow to make a move and when he did, holy heck! My Kindle was close to steaming! I couldn’t help but smile when he was so blind to a certain situation regarding someone else’s emotions towards him. Men!
Eliza and Nathaniel were incredible together. I loved the uncertainty of where their relationship was going to go. Obviously, I knew where it ultimately was going to end but getting there was so much fun. With secrets on both sides, they had a good bit to work out, especially on Nathaniel’s part. With a perfect epilogue for them and a bit of build up for the next book, this is definitely my new favorite by this author.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
February 5, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Mrs Eliza Pierce, a widow and one of the owners of Elegant Occasions, is enjoying her time in helping young men and women find their place in the ton. With her sister, Diana, now married, Eliza has a greater role in the company, but is still shocked when her late husband's best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, arrives in town, begging her to take on his ward as a client, and get her re-married as quickly as possible. Nathaniel's ward is the daughter of his commanding officer, and when he died she was left in his care, as a widow herself, with a young son. But Nathaniel is hiding a secret, and not just that he has always cared for Eliza, and wants her for himself.
This was just the right story for Eliza. When we meet her in A Duke for Diana, it's clear her marriage was not a perfect one, and being a widow is much better for her. I was expecting Sam, her late husband, to have been a bad guy, but he was even worse than I was expecting. Eliza was the daughter of an Earl, though her parents had their own scandals to contend with, and her marriage was too much for her father. I hoped that Nathaniel would've been more forthcoming with her earlier (I'm sorry, but it was clearly obvious what secret's he was hiding from the get go), and definitely agreed with the course of action Eliza took when she discovered the truth. She deserved the very best, and Nathaniel had to work for it - and he did. The subplot of Verity and the Phantom has definitely whet the appetite for her own book, and I'm desperately waiting to read it! Another great book from Sabrina, one not to miss.
Mrs Eliza Pierce, a widow and one of the owners of Elegant Occasions, is enjoying her time in helping young men and women find their place in the ton. With her sister, Diana, now married, Eliza has a greater role in the company, but is still shocked when her late husband's best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, arrives in town, begging her to take on his ward as a client, and get her re-married as quickly as possible. Nathaniel's ward is the daughter of his commanding officer, and when he died she was left in his care, as a widow herself, with a young son. But Nathaniel is hiding a secret, and not just that he has always cared for Eliza, and wants her for himself.
This was just the right story for Eliza. When we meet her in A Duke for Diana, it's clear her marriage was not a perfect one, and being a widow is much better for her. I was expecting Sam, her late husband, to have been a bad guy, but he was even worse than I was expecting. Eliza was the daughter of an Earl, though her parents had their own scandals to contend with, and her marriage was too much for her father. I hoped that Nathaniel would've been more forthcoming with her earlier (I'm sorry, but it was clearly obvious what secret's he was hiding from the get go), and definitely agreed with the course of action Eliza took when she discovered the truth. She deserved the very best, and Nathaniel had to work for it - and he did. The subplot of Verity and the Phantom has definitely whet the appetite for her own book, and I'm desperately waiting to read it! Another great book from Sabrina, one not to miss.
February 26, 2023
Second in the Designing Debutantes series. I’ve read the first one and it does recap enough you can read this as a stand alone. The series focus on three sisters. Their mother’s affair and eventual divorce causes enough scandal they are on the edge of society. So instead of slinking off to the country they become event planners and help introduce girls into society. The first sister married a Duke which adds to their acceptance.
Eliza Pierce is at 27 a young widow. She loves working with her sisters and has no plans to remarry. Her husband married her for her dowry but her father denied it because they eloped. He then went to war and didn’t return leaving his wife with nothing. Her husbands best friend Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, hires Elegant Occasions to help his ward, a young widow of an officer come out into society. She also has a sweet two year old son, who oddly refers to himself in third person when speaking.
There is flirting between Eliza and Nathaniel and even a suggestion of an affair as would be allowed by society rules. But Nathaniel has a lot of secrets. Some about Eliza’s husband, others about himself and his ward. It is a lot, although most are predictable. I am always someone who yearns for more conversations between characters but this book has too many. Pages and pages of talking without much happening. Also I have a real issue with one of his big secrets because he was willing to risk Eliza and her sister’s livelihood to further his goals.
I enjoyed this story slightly more than the first in the series. I like that Eliza is free to have an assignation as long as she is discrete. Nathaniel comes off a bit pompous in his manner and way of talking. But I could see the connection between the two. Thank you to Netgalley, Zebra and Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 Stars)
Eliza Pierce is at 27 a young widow. She loves working with her sisters and has no plans to remarry. Her husband married her for her dowry but her father denied it because they eloped. He then went to war and didn’t return leaving his wife with nothing. Her husbands best friend Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, hires Elegant Occasions to help his ward, a young widow of an officer come out into society. She also has a sweet two year old son, who oddly refers to himself in third person when speaking.
There is flirting between Eliza and Nathaniel and even a suggestion of an affair as would be allowed by society rules. But Nathaniel has a lot of secrets. Some about Eliza’s husband, others about himself and his ward. It is a lot, although most are predictable. I am always someone who yearns for more conversations between characters but this book has too many. Pages and pages of talking without much happening. Also I have a real issue with one of his big secrets because he was willing to risk Eliza and her sister’s livelihood to further his goals.
I enjoyed this story slightly more than the first in the series. I like that Eliza is free to have an assignation as long as she is discrete. Nathaniel comes off a bit pompous in his manner and way of talking. But I could see the connection between the two. Thank you to Netgalley, Zebra and Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 Stars)
March 27, 2023
Oh my gosh, I freaking love Eliza! So proper and yet so kind, I loved seeing her learn to trust herself and men again. Standing up for herself and refusing to settle for less than she deserves. Hear hear!! And Nathaniel....boy he is walking some mighty thin lines trying to take care of the world around him while keeping secrets but still falling in love....so many things to juggle when you keep them all locked up tight.
Truly a lovely story, I couldn't put it down! Lots of surprises along the way. And I can't wait for Verity's book!!
Truly a lovely story, I couldn't put it down! Lots of surprises along the way. And I can't wait for Verity's book!!
April 17, 2023
It's Eliza's turn in the Designing Debutantes series. The widow and oldest sister can't help but be drawn to the friend of her late husband, Nathaniel, Lord Foxstead. Eliza is determined not to marry again after being disappointed in love the first time around. Nathaniel is trying his best to resist her after he hires Elegant Occasions to sponsor his ward. They both fail in their efforts to resist their attraction.
This was a truly lovely story. I enjoyed it very much and am looking forward to Verity's book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This was a truly lovely story. I enjoyed it very much and am looking forward to Verity's book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 28, 2023
Book 2 in the Designing Debutantes
This book follows the eldest sister, widowed Eliza Pierce. A friend of her late husband's brings his ward to Elegant Occasions for help in finding her a husband. Seems simple enough. She is widowed, with a young son, young, beautiful & the orphan child of a general. But the secrets! Her secrets, the friend's secrets, Eliza's husband secrets . . . They just pile up. Creating an intriguing view of the inside workings of Regency High Society.
This book follows the eldest sister, widowed Eliza Pierce. A friend of her late husband's brings his ward to Elegant Occasions for help in finding her a husband. Seems simple enough. She is widowed, with a young son, young, beautiful & the orphan child of a general. But the secrets! Her secrets, the friend's secrets, Eliza's husband secrets . . . They just pile up. Creating an intriguing view of the inside workings of Regency High Society.
October 7, 2025
5/5
I love Sabrina Jeffries’ books, and this one is no exception.💜 Eliza and Nathaniel were absolutely adorable, even though they annoyed me a couple of times, I forgave them thanks to their passion, the kind that makes you sigh.
I love Sabrina Jeffries’ books, and this one is no exception.💜 Eliza and Nathaniel were absolutely adorable, even though they annoyed me a couple of times, I forgave them thanks to their passion, the kind that makes you sigh.
July 30, 2023
I love Sabrina Jeffries and this one was a lot of fun! I enjoyed the first one so I pretty much knew this one would be a good one. I liked the two main characters and how each had an issue to get through to move forward. I can't wait to see how the next book goes with the other sister and the mystery ballroom man!
March 29, 2023
This book was so bananas but in a way I enjoyed...if that makes sense. Sometimes we all just need to read a romance that is a comedy of errors where you can see how it is going to end, and instead of cringing over the inevitable train wreck (most of the time caused by a hero who lies), you break out the popcorn and laugh the whole way through. In this book, we have a widow who had a really crappy husband who is now deceased and a former soldier who was her husband's best friend. Said best friend has a ward of sorts with a child who may or may not be his child, posing as a widow but may or may not really be his mistress. Then there are the heroine's sisters, one of whom is heavily pregnant most of the book with a sassy nature we all know and love, and the other is a perfectionist who has no interest in men but is strangely attracted to a man who dresses up as a bush at one of their balls (I swear to God). Confused? Don't worry, it is written very clearly in the book, but looking back on it, it's just so bonkers that I couldn't help but explain it like that.
Eliza Pierce enjoys running Elegant Occasions with her two sisters, ensuring their own financial freedom and making a life for herself free from her father's influence and society's limitations on women who work. When an old friend of her late husband, Nathaniel Stanton, comes to call, asking for her help in introducing his former general's daughter to society, she is happy to help. Taking the young woman under her wing, as well as her adorable young son, is no hardship, even if it seems odd that Nathaniel is so dedicated to finding her a husband. On Nathaniel's side, he just wants to get the young woman settled to make sure secrets stay buried. With his own secrets hanging by a thread, the last thing he needs is an unwelcome attraction to Eliza, especially since the only thing she remembers about him is his rakish behavior and bad influence on her husband. However, circumstances force them together at every opportunity, and there is no reason for a widow not to engage in a little fun...as long as there is no expectation of long-term attachment. All seems to be going well, but the closer they get to each other, the closer secrets come to being uncovered, which could not only destroy their budding romance but also their lives as they know it.
Nathaniel was just so enamored with Eliza for most of the book, it was hysterical watching them two dance around their attraction. For Nathaniel, it was insta-lust for sure, but Eliza took a bit of time warming up to him. Once she saw how much he had changed since her husband was alive, she realized that underneath his rakish past was a genuinely good-hearted man who just wanted to do right by those in his care. Eliza was a confident, independent young widow, and a man wasn't really anything she needed or wanted in her life. But her attraction to Nathaniel was too difficult to battle forever, and so inevitably they begin an affair. Now here is where you can see the trainwreck coming. Nathaniel kept his secret for way too long, and of course, it wasn't too long before Eliza figured it out. I didn't blame her one bit for how angry she got, and in all honesty, I admired her restraint. She made sure he knew how wrong he was and didn't just forgive him immediately. The best part was the grovel. Oh my goodness, that grovel as absolutely epic. He was a bit busy with excuses at first, trying to explain away to all who would listen how he had good reason to keep the secret, but in the end, he knew what he had to do. And he excelled at it. Bravo, Sabrina Jeffries, for mastering the writing of a good grovel.
I have so far enjoyed both books in this series, and I look forward to Verity's book the most. I wasn't kidding about the guy posing as a bush. He's her love interest, I just know it.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
Eliza Pierce enjoys running Elegant Occasions with her two sisters, ensuring their own financial freedom and making a life for herself free from her father's influence and society's limitations on women who work. When an old friend of her late husband, Nathaniel Stanton, comes to call, asking for her help in introducing his former general's daughter to society, she is happy to help. Taking the young woman under her wing, as well as her adorable young son, is no hardship, even if it seems odd that Nathaniel is so dedicated to finding her a husband. On Nathaniel's side, he just wants to get the young woman settled to make sure secrets stay buried. With his own secrets hanging by a thread, the last thing he needs is an unwelcome attraction to Eliza, especially since the only thing she remembers about him is his rakish behavior and bad influence on her husband. However, circumstances force them together at every opportunity, and there is no reason for a widow not to engage in a little fun...as long as there is no expectation of long-term attachment. All seems to be going well, but the closer they get to each other, the closer secrets come to being uncovered, which could not only destroy their budding romance but also their lives as they know it.
Nathaniel was just so enamored with Eliza for most of the book, it was hysterical watching them two dance around their attraction. For Nathaniel, it was insta-lust for sure, but Eliza took a bit of time warming up to him. Once she saw how much he had changed since her husband was alive, she realized that underneath his rakish past was a genuinely good-hearted man who just wanted to do right by those in his care. Eliza was a confident, independent young widow, and a man wasn't really anything she needed or wanted in her life. But her attraction to Nathaniel was too difficult to battle forever, and so inevitably they begin an affair. Now here is where you can see the trainwreck coming. Nathaniel kept his secret for way too long, and of course, it wasn't too long before Eliza figured it out. I didn't blame her one bit for how angry she got, and in all honesty, I admired her restraint. She made sure he knew how wrong he was and didn't just forgive him immediately. The best part was the grovel. Oh my goodness, that grovel as absolutely epic. He was a bit busy with excuses at first, trying to explain away to all who would listen how he had good reason to keep the secret, but in the end, he knew what he had to do. And he excelled at it. Bravo, Sabrina Jeffries, for mastering the writing of a good grovel.
I have so far enjoyed both books in this series, and I look forward to Verity's book the most. I wasn't kidding about the guy posing as a bush. He's her love interest, I just know it.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
June 1, 2023
First a Duke for Diana, now a Earl for Eliza (Missed opportunity)? Sabrina Jeffries has my heart in a chokehold. Truly a delightful and I love every second of it.
Both the world and the romantic elements are done so well. Often times these series feel repetitive but each sister captured my heart and wishing for an invitation to one of their balls. There are so many twist and turns, you better hang on to your safety restraints.
Lord Foxstead plays the eccentric bachelor so well But is an absolutely teddy bear on the inside. I loved every element of his and Eliza’s relationship. GREAT BANTER FRIENDS.
can’t wait for verity’s viscount to appear 😍😍
Both the world and the romantic elements are done so well. Often times these series feel repetitive but each sister captured my heart and wishing for an invitation to one of their balls. There are so many twist and turns, you better hang on to your safety restraints.
Lord Foxstead plays the eccentric bachelor so well But is an absolutely teddy bear on the inside. I loved every element of his and Eliza’s relationship. GREAT BANTER FRIENDS.
can’t wait for verity’s viscount to appear 😍😍
March 23, 2023
Thanks #NetGalley for the advanced copy of #WhatHappensintheBallroom by Sabrina Jeffries in exchange for an honest review.
Wow - what a great book. I have to admit I love a retired soldier story and this one gave lots of what I love about those stories so that was an added bonus. Sabrina Jeffries writes stories that are fun and easy to read. Her characters are likable even when they are making bad decisions too. The secret was a little easy to figure out but that didn't lessen my enjoyment of the book. Looking forward to more of this series and more by this author.
Wow - what a great book. I have to admit I love a retired soldier story and this one gave lots of what I love about those stories so that was an added bonus. Sabrina Jeffries writes stories that are fun and easy to read. Her characters are likable even when they are making bad decisions too. The secret was a little easy to figure out but that didn't lessen my enjoyment of the book. Looking forward to more of this series and more by this author.
March 20, 2024
The book was terrible. There was no flow to the writing. Dialogs were disjoined. The whole big secret was a joke, everyone can figure it out in a minute. It was just porly written book. Specially when compared to her older works.
Also the title makes zero sense given that there is barely any mention of the ballroom. She should've kept the original title.
Also the title makes zero sense given that there is barely any mention of the ballroom. She should've kept the original title.
May 4, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Publisher via NetGalley***
I struggled with this title. I did finish it, although I am not totally sure why as I never totally felt the connection between the characters, which is a shame, as I think this one had a lot of potential, it just didn't work for me.
I am unable to recommend this title.
I struggled with this title. I did finish it, although I am not totally sure why as I never totally felt the connection between the characters, which is a shame, as I think this one had a lot of potential, it just didn't work for me.
I am unable to recommend this title.
April 2, 2023
An Earl for Eliza
5 Stars
This is the second book in Jeffries’ Designing Debutantes series focussing on three sisters who open an agency to help young debutantes make their debuts into society. We had middle sister, Diana���s story in A Duke for Diana and now we have the story of oldest sister Eliza. As to whether the stories stand alone - in terms of the romance, absolutely, yes. However there were characters mentioned, and discussions of things that had happened in the first book that weren’t re-explained. Having said that, I have read the first book and I couldn’t remember some of the things I was expected to remember.
Eliza Pierce is a young widow whose marriage has put her off men for good. Well, except for her husband’s best friend, Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead - the last man she should really fall for, and not just because he’s the biggest rogue that ever lived. I liked Eliza as a heroine and it’s always fun to have a widow as a heroine as they definitely were able to have the most fun of all women of the Regency. Eliza’s plans to have an affair with Nathaniel were totally understandable - as was her failure at keeping herself from falling in love.
I had a bit more trouble figuring out Nathaniel’s motivations. At times he seemed to be following his lust in wanting only an affair with Eliza. At other times, I wondered whether he had some sort of unrequited love for Eliza even before she had been married. I think I would have been happier if that angle had been pursued. Nathanial also had a whole host of secrets which were ultimately the reason for the conflict between our couple. These weren’t too egregious although I admit to getting myself all confused when things were came out.
With Eliza being a widow, there were many more possibilities for Nathaniel and Eliza to be together. We still got some nice teasing and building of the sexual tension before their first encounter - in a carriage in a carriage house - oh my! It was fun and sexy, and I liked our pair as a couple both in and outside the bedroom - or the carriage house!
Sabrina Jeffries always manages to suck me into the lives of her characters and the dazzling world of Regency England. She weaves her words so seamlessly that you don’t even realise that you’ve fallen in love with the characters and have such rich detail of the world around them as they themselves fall in love. She’s one of, if not my favourite, Regency romance authors and I’m always delighted to read a book of hers. While this book might not be my favourite of hers, and it also has one or two niggles, it still entertained me and I was always happy to pick it up and read just a bit more. And now I can’t wait to read Verity’s story - presumably with the dastardly Phantom Fellow that’s been following her around for two whole books now. But for Eliza’s story, still a solid 5 stars and a recommended read if you enjoy rich, detailed Regency romances.
March 23, 2023
The charming and flirty dialogue effectively offsets the tension created by the potentially devastating secrets and self-doubt.
Eliza Pierce and her two sisters built Elegant Occasions from the ground up after Eliza’s husband died in the war and left her with nothing. Nathaniel Stanton, Earl of Foxstead and her husband’s best friend, wants to hire the trio to help a war widow under Nathaniel’s care find a husband. Jocelyn makes googly-eyes at Nathaniel and her young son adores him, leaving Eliza to wonder what the truth about their relationship is. Nathaniel can’t keep his eyes (and hands) off Eliza and Eliza is ready to explore this attraction, but there may be too many secrets that could upset everything.
Nathaniel had some skeletons in his own closet and he was also keeping secrets surrounding Jocelyn and her son. So while his feelings for Eliza were very real, their interactions were always clouded by the things he refused to share with her. Eliza realized that he was being cagey, and she didn’t put up with that for long. I loved how she consistently stood up for herself, against her father as well, despite the fact that her late husband had planted a bunch of doubts about herself in her mind. Nathaniel was very self-aware about his faults and he felt that he didn’t deserve Eliza. His playful nature brought Eliza out of her serious shell. I loved the moments when they gave in to their attraction. Their flirting positively sizzled.
Both characters went through growth and changes and had to learn to be more open with each other. The mystery about Jocelyn had me in knots too and I devoured the book fairly quickly. I was eager to know everything and to see Eliza and Nathaniel together.
This book is part of a series about the three sisters, but it stands well on its own too. The first book does an excellent job of explaining the start-up of Elegant Occasions and you don’t want to miss that. I can highly recommend this book if you like steamy historical romance with a strong female lead.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2022
I read What Happens in the Ballroom (formerly An Earl for Eliza) in almost one sitting. This is the second book in the Designing Debutantes series by Sabrina Jeffries. The first book was just as fun and sets up the reason why these sisters must have careers even though they are of the peerage. We learned little tidbits about Eliza's life in A Duke for Diana but I wasn't sure if I was invested enough in her personality to read an entire book about her. Boy, was I wrong.
Eliza is the brains behind the Elegant Occasions planning service. She handles all of the financial and comportment issues. Widowed for several years after her husband runs off to war, Eliza is the glue that holds her sisters together. When her deceased husband's best friend comes to her for help she finds it to be an offer she can't refuse. Nathaniel suddenly shows up with a very young widow with a small child in tow and claims to be her guardian. He wants her to be married off quickly and for Elegant Occasions to help with that.
The chemistry between Nathaniel and Eliza was smoldering. Their banter back and forth was just so entertaining. Eliza was so snarky at times I would laugh out loud. I really thought that Sabrina Jeffries handled the situation with Sam (Eliza's husband) well. There was a progression of bereavement as the story went along for both Nathaniel and Eliza. The bond between the sister's was still in the forefront of this storyline and I enjoy seeing them support and quibble with each other. Verity's story with the Phantom has me so excited. I can't wait to find out who this mysterious person is! I do wish the title wouldn't have changed. The original title fits in better with the first novel.
Tropes included: widow, best friends wife, war hero, working heroine, reformed rake, family secrets, carriage steam
Thank you to NetGalley, Sabrina Jeffries, Kensington Books (Zebra) for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #sabrinajeffries #kensingtonbooks #whathappensintheballroom #designingdebutantes
Eliza is the brains behind the Elegant Occasions planning service. She handles all of the financial and comportment issues. Widowed for several years after her husband runs off to war, Eliza is the glue that holds her sisters together. When her deceased husband's best friend comes to her for help she finds it to be an offer she can't refuse. Nathaniel suddenly shows up with a very young widow with a small child in tow and claims to be her guardian. He wants her to be married off quickly and for Elegant Occasions to help with that.
The chemistry between Nathaniel and Eliza was smoldering. Their banter back and forth was just so entertaining. Eliza was so snarky at times I would laugh out loud. I really thought that Sabrina Jeffries handled the situation with Sam (Eliza's husband) well. There was a progression of bereavement as the story went along for both Nathaniel and Eliza. The bond between the sister's was still in the forefront of this storyline and I enjoy seeing them support and quibble with each other. Verity's story with the Phantom has me so excited. I can't wait to find out who this mysterious person is! I do wish the title wouldn't have changed. The original title fits in better with the first novel.
Tropes included: widow, best friends wife, war hero, working heroine, reformed rake, family secrets, carriage steam
Thank you to NetGalley, Sabrina Jeffries, Kensington Books (Zebra) for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #sabrinajeffries #kensingtonbooks #whathappensintheballroom #designingdebutantes
April 18, 2023
Eliza Pierce is beginning to enjoy the bit of freedom that comes with being that young widow of a soldier, as well as the financial success of Elegant Occasions, the party planning business she started with her two sisters. When Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, her late husband’s best friend, hires her to help him bring another young military widow out into society, Eliza questions his motives. She’s suspicious of who the woman and her adorable young son really are, and of why Nathaniel keeps singling out Eliza herself.
Nathaniel’s family is complicated and makes marriage a difficult proposition for him, so his undeniable attraction to his best friend’s widow is inconvenient to say the least. Flagging under the weight of secrets from his family and his former commanding officer, Nathaniel sets aside his own feelings to do his duty, even though it means being tempted to break his own rules each time he encounters Eliza. He can’t help but want a future with her but fears she’ll never want him once she knows all his truths.
I seem to be saying this a lot lately, but I wanted to like this one much more than I did. It was fine, but not all that memorable for me and the heroine grew rather irritating after a while. To be fair, Eliza was incredibly judgmental from the start and her sisters, Verity and Diana didn’t come off all that well either; what was meant to be a charming interplay between the sisters was just a rather annoying distraction to me. Eliza’s insistence on believing Jocelin must be Nathaniel’s mistress or basically so was just crass and did not reflect well on Eliza. I found her to be too snappish with Nathaniel and too quick to accuse him of still being a rake despite his having given her every reason to believe he had changed. Eliza just kept bringing up old issues and refusing to let them go, a stubbornness that was just unnecessary and impeded the relationship development between herself and Nathaniel.
I’m not a fan of the secret-keeping trope in general because I spent the entire book knowing it would cause a rift because Eliza had made it very clear to Nathaniel that she wasn’t interested in listening to him. The whole secret-revelation-rift could’ve been avoided if she’d been more open and less judgmental from the start. Instead, Eliza was consistently mean to Nathaniel, even telling him at one point that she wouldn’t let him spoil a day by being him. Excuse me, what. I would loathe a hero for saying this to a heroine, so it goes both ways here as yet another facet that, for me, reflected poorly on Eliza. Also, she knew her husband was a liar and yet was quick to believe every foul thing he ever told her about Nathaniel. She made tons of excuses for not trusting Nathaniel, but none of them quite washed for me. Yes, he had secrets, but they weren’t truly his and it seemed very unfair for her to hold them against him, even for a short time. Later, Eliza claims to have spent all this time with Nathaniel and forgotten about her sisters, but they literally shared one afternoon, one dinner, and one night together, so once again, another Eliza complaint that didn’t wash. Her jealousy over his ward also grew old and just seemed petty after a while. There just wasn't sufficient relationship development for me and it seemed that Eliza’s character could basically be boiled down to jealousy and making assumptions.
I was also annoyed by Verity’s belittling of Eliza for no reason and happy to see Eliza stand up for herself against that behavior eventually. This makes me a bit nervous for Verity’s book but also gives me some hope, though thus far this series hasn’t been one I’ve loved the way I usually do with this author. None of the sisters’ behavior reflected all that well on any of them in this book but the drama and twists embedded in this premise were enjoyable, just not what I’d hoped because I didn’t click with this heroine. I’m sure most readers won’t have the issues that I did with Eliza and will love this one, and while it wasn’t all that I’d hoped for, I will look forward to the next book from a much-loved author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Nathaniel’s family is complicated and makes marriage a difficult proposition for him, so his undeniable attraction to his best friend’s widow is inconvenient to say the least. Flagging under the weight of secrets from his family and his former commanding officer, Nathaniel sets aside his own feelings to do his duty, even though it means being tempted to break his own rules each time he encounters Eliza. He can’t help but want a future with her but fears she’ll never want him once she knows all his truths.
I seem to be saying this a lot lately, but I wanted to like this one much more than I did. It was fine, but not all that memorable for me and the heroine grew rather irritating after a while. To be fair, Eliza was incredibly judgmental from the start and her sisters, Verity and Diana didn’t come off all that well either; what was meant to be a charming interplay between the sisters was just a rather annoying distraction to me. Eliza’s insistence on believing Jocelin must be Nathaniel’s mistress or basically so was just crass and did not reflect well on Eliza. I found her to be too snappish with Nathaniel and too quick to accuse him of still being a rake despite his having given her every reason to believe he had changed. Eliza just kept bringing up old issues and refusing to let them go, a stubbornness that was just unnecessary and impeded the relationship development between herself and Nathaniel.
I’m not a fan of the secret-keeping trope in general because I spent the entire book knowing it would cause a rift because Eliza had made it very clear to Nathaniel that she wasn’t interested in listening to him. The whole secret-revelation-rift could’ve been avoided if she’d been more open and less judgmental from the start. Instead, Eliza was consistently mean to Nathaniel, even telling him at one point that she wouldn’t let him spoil a day by being him. Excuse me, what. I would loathe a hero for saying this to a heroine, so it goes both ways here as yet another facet that, for me, reflected poorly on Eliza. Also, she knew her husband was a liar and yet was quick to believe every foul thing he ever told her about Nathaniel. She made tons of excuses for not trusting Nathaniel, but none of them quite washed for me. Yes, he had secrets, but they weren’t truly his and it seemed very unfair for her to hold them against him, even for a short time. Later, Eliza claims to have spent all this time with Nathaniel and forgotten about her sisters, but they literally shared one afternoon, one dinner, and one night together, so once again, another Eliza complaint that didn’t wash. Her jealousy over his ward also grew old and just seemed petty after a while. There just wasn't sufficient relationship development for me and it seemed that Eliza’s character could basically be boiled down to jealousy and making assumptions.
I was also annoyed by Verity’s belittling of Eliza for no reason and happy to see Eliza stand up for herself against that behavior eventually. This makes me a bit nervous for Verity’s book but also gives me some hope, though thus far this series hasn’t been one I’ve loved the way I usually do with this author. None of the sisters’ behavior reflected all that well on any of them in this book but the drama and twists embedded in this premise were enjoyable, just not what I’d hoped because I didn’t click with this heroine. I’m sure most readers won’t have the issues that I did with Eliza and will love this one, and while it wasn’t all that I’d hoped for, I will look forward to the next book from a much-loved author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
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