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How to Fake It in Society
Not yet published
Expected 28 Apr 26Bridgerton meets The Goldfinch in How to Fake It in Society, a stunning queer romance by rising genre star KJ Charles.
It is 1821 and Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte is making a splash in London Society. The son of Jeanne de Valois de La Motte, infamous for stealing a priceless diamond necklace meant for Marie Antoinette, Nico hopes to restore his wronged mother's reputation, if only he can raise the funds. But he must operate with great secrecy, because the Bourbon dynasty murdered his mother, and he fears for his life.
At least, that's what he tells Titus Pilcrow. Titus was a simple shopkeeper, making and selling artists' paints, when he found himself suddenly married to an immensely wealthy woman who wanted to disinherit her nephew on her deathbed. As word spreads of his fortune, Titus finds himself a target of every scammer and beggar in London . . . including one Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte.
Nico is on his last legs, out of money, and on the run from some terrifying gangsters. When Titus offers Nico a space in his household, it's the perfect chance for him to exploit London's newest golden purse - until he falls in love with the man he needs to cheat. Still, Nico is sure they can have a happy ending together. If he can just find his way out of his own web of lies . . .
"KJ Charles is one of the best romance novelists writing today. Historical romance at its finest."
SARAH MACLEAN
It is 1821 and Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte is making a splash in London Society. The son of Jeanne de Valois de La Motte, infamous for stealing a priceless diamond necklace meant for Marie Antoinette, Nico hopes to restore his wronged mother's reputation, if only he can raise the funds. But he must operate with great secrecy, because the Bourbon dynasty murdered his mother, and he fears for his life.
At least, that's what he tells Titus Pilcrow. Titus was a simple shopkeeper, making and selling artists' paints, when he found himself suddenly married to an immensely wealthy woman who wanted to disinherit her nephew on her deathbed. As word spreads of his fortune, Titus finds himself a target of every scammer and beggar in London . . . including one Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte.
Nico is on his last legs, out of money, and on the run from some terrifying gangsters. When Titus offers Nico a space in his household, it's the perfect chance for him to exploit London's newest golden purse - until he falls in love with the man he needs to cheat. Still, Nico is sure they can have a happy ending together. If he can just find his way out of his own web of lies . . .
"KJ Charles is one of the best romance novelists writing today. Historical romance at its finest."
SARAH MACLEAN
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 16, 2026
10 people are currently reading
10490 people want to read
About the author
K.J. Charles
66 books12.3k followersKJ is a writer of romance, mostly m/m, historical or fantasy or both. She blogs about writing and editing at http://kjcharleswriter.com.
She lives in London, UK, with her husband, two kids, and a cat of absolute night.
Bluesky @kj_charleswriter.com
Join the lively Discord group at https://discord.gg/fmPTWSZfT6
Sign up to the (infrequent) newsletter at http://kjcharleswriter.com/newsletter
Please **do not** message me on Goodreads as I no longer check the inbox due to unwanted messages.
She lives in London, UK, with her husband, two kids, and a cat of absolute night.
Bluesky @kj_charleswriter.com
Join the lively Discord group at https://discord.gg/fmPTWSZfT6
Sign up to the (infrequent) newsletter at http://kjcharleswriter.com/newsletter
Please **do not** message me on Goodreads as I no longer check the inbox due to unwanted messages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I know I say this every time, but fuck me, KJC can spin an entertaining tale. But even in an exceptional catalogue of wonderful stories, this one has stuck out to me as something extraordinary. I JUST HAD SUCH AN UTTERLY DELIGHTFUL TIME.
After having his rent raised by his landlord and sometimes lover, Titus Pilcrow finds himself potentially out of a home and shop front where he has worked hard to establish his small but respectable paint making business. Whilst in the act of completing a home delivery to his elderly, eccentric and (most importantly) wealthy client, Miss Whitecross, Titus comes to finds her unexpectedly on her death bed and in desperate need of assistance. Miss Whitecross needs to marry, and marry immediately to stop her horrid nephew from inheriting her fortune upon her death which she claims he is responsible for.
Thus, Titus finds himself unexpectedly married, widowed and wealthy in short order.
Suddenly everyone is hoping to take advantage of the newly wealthy Mr Pilcrow and his new status, including the handsome, charming and roguish Nicolas- Marc, the Comte de Valois de La Motte, and Miss Whitecross’ originally planned fiancée, who secretly owes a quite substantial debt to some very bad people with a fast approaching deadline.
It’s no surprise that KJC can write some effortlessly engaging characters and Nico and Titus are no exception. Fleshed out alongside these two are a number of terrible, yet delghtful villains, and KJCs usual trademark of wonderful supporting characters including the Thorpes, Eve and Vespasian.
Nico was a toucher, and Titus was a man desperate for touch, and it came so very naturally to reach out to him.
So many elements of this story worked as a dopamine injection to my poor stressed, smooth little brain. I cant help but feel a little feral for the dynamic were one character is good and golden but has been misused by opportunistic people in their life and is so down trodden that they hide their light, and then a witty resourceful rogue comes along and is just KNOCKED FOR SIX BY HOW WONDERFUL THEY ARE. I eat it up every time. Yum yum yum.
And, he realised, what had freed him was caring for people who cared back. As a starving man would eat from the gutter, a man hungry for affection would take what he could get, even if it came with brutal kicks.
He was becoming someone who decided how he let people treat him, and he felt a fierce pride in that, along with a certain embarrassment it had taken him to the age of thirty-one.
I'm sure y’all get sick of me saying this, because I will continue to say it every time, but if KJC writes it, I will read it, and I will likely love it and this is no exception. I DEMOLISHED this in a single day and could not have been happier. I think that rather effortlessly Nico and Titus have slipped into the spot of my favourite KJC couple and will feature in my comfort read rotation.
(I will tell you that when i looked up the French translation for one of Nico’s lines and it turned out he had said “Shit cockroach” I GASPED OUT LOUD WITH LAUGHTER and Nico cemented himself firmly in my books as a beloved.
Thank you Tor Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC of this delightful book.
Planned release date 16 April 2026
Consider following my bookstagram
After having his rent raised by his landlord and sometimes lover, Titus Pilcrow finds himself potentially out of a home and shop front where he has worked hard to establish his small but respectable paint making business. Whilst in the act of completing a home delivery to his elderly, eccentric and (most importantly) wealthy client, Miss Whitecross, Titus comes to finds her unexpectedly on her death bed and in desperate need of assistance. Miss Whitecross needs to marry, and marry immediately to stop her horrid nephew from inheriting her fortune upon her death which she claims he is responsible for.
Thus, Titus finds himself unexpectedly married, widowed and wealthy in short order.
Suddenly everyone is hoping to take advantage of the newly wealthy Mr Pilcrow and his new status, including the handsome, charming and roguish Nicolas- Marc, the Comte de Valois de La Motte, and Miss Whitecross’ originally planned fiancée, who secretly owes a quite substantial debt to some very bad people with a fast approaching deadline.
It’s no surprise that KJC can write some effortlessly engaging characters and Nico and Titus are no exception. Fleshed out alongside these two are a number of terrible, yet delghtful villains, and KJCs usual trademark of wonderful supporting characters including the Thorpes, Eve and Vespasian.
Nico was a toucher, and Titus was a man desperate for touch, and it came so very naturally to reach out to him.
So many elements of this story worked as a dopamine injection to my poor stressed, smooth little brain. I cant help but feel a little feral for the dynamic were one character is good and golden but has been misused by opportunistic people in their life and is so down trodden that they hide their light, and then a witty resourceful rogue comes along and is just KNOCKED FOR SIX BY HOW WONDERFUL THEY ARE. I eat it up every time. Yum yum yum.
And, he realised, what had freed him was caring for people who cared back. As a starving man would eat from the gutter, a man hungry for affection would take what he could get, even if it came with brutal kicks.
He was becoming someone who decided how he let people treat him, and he felt a fierce pride in that, along with a certain embarrassment it had taken him to the age of thirty-one.
I'm sure y’all get sick of me saying this, because I will continue to say it every time, but if KJC writes it, I will read it, and I will likely love it and this is no exception. I DEMOLISHED this in a single day and could not have been happier. I think that rather effortlessly Nico and Titus have slipped into the spot of my favourite KJC couple and will feature in my comfort read rotation.
(I will tell you that when i looked up the French translation for one of Nico’s lines and it turned out he had said “Shit cockroach” I GASPED OUT LOUD WITH LAUGHTER and Nico cemented himself firmly in my books as a beloved.
Thank you Tor Publishing for the opportunity to read an ARC of this delightful book.
Planned release date 16 April 2026
Consider following my bookstagram
November 7, 2025
'Casey McQuiston meets Queer Bridgerton' is an unwarranted insult
edit: I see it's been changed to 'Bridgerton meets The Goldfinch' #myimpact
actual review: 1) clearly I don't get on with marketing departments (see above) but you REALLY can't say 'meets The Goldfinch' about a book that is only Goldfinchian in that it has a painting in it. I mean really. 2) now don't get me wrong, I love KJC and as far as I'm concerned she can do absolutely no wrong and I will read even her less-than-perfect books thrice, but this is a FANTASTIC return to form after a couple of books that, to me, have been Just Good and not amazing. this woz sick xxx
edit: I see it's been changed to 'Bridgerton meets The Goldfinch' #myimpact
actual review: 1) clearly I don't get on with marketing departments (see above) but you REALLY can't say 'meets The Goldfinch' about a book that is only Goldfinchian in that it has a painting in it. I mean really. 2) now don't get me wrong, I love KJC and as far as I'm concerned she can do absolutely no wrong and I will read even her less-than-perfect books thrice, but this is a FANTASTIC return to form after a couple of books that, to me, have been Just Good and not amazing. this woz sick xxx
January 6, 2026
K.J. Charles is always a comfort author for me. So when the end of the year rolls around and we all start reminiscing while also looking ahead, what could be better than settling in with a new historical romance?
Of course, K.J. Charles delivers once again with How to Fake It in Society. Titus is such an earnest, quietly sincere main character, someone who seizes the chance to marry a dying old woman in hopes of securing a future he’s never been allowed to imagine. And then there’s Nico: charming, a little morally gray, and so intent on forming a genuine connection with Titus that you can’t help rooting for him.
How to Fake It in Society is an utterly engaging read. I found myself smiling again and again whenever Titus and Nico shared the page. Their chemistry is warm, awkward, and so tender. Even though I guessed a few twists early, I loved the entire read (I even understood the inevitable third-act breakup).
Thank you, Bramble and NetGalley, for this lovely ARC!
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Of course, K.J. Charles delivers once again with How to Fake It in Society. Titus is such an earnest, quietly sincere main character, someone who seizes the chance to marry a dying old woman in hopes of securing a future he’s never been allowed to imagine. And then there’s Nico: charming, a little morally gray, and so intent on forming a genuine connection with Titus that you can’t help rooting for him.
How to Fake It in Society is an utterly engaging read. I found myself smiling again and again whenever Titus and Nico shared the page. Their chemistry is warm, awkward, and so tender. Even though I guessed a few twists early, I loved the entire read (I even understood the inevitable third-act breakup).
Thank you, Bramble and NetGalley, for this lovely ARC!
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Want to read
June 30, 2025“Rising genre star” like I haven’t been living on KJ Charles books for the better part of a decade.
January 25, 2026
I LOVED this! My favourite KJC release of the last few years, since the Will Darling Adventures were completed in 2021. This just really hit the spot for me. Flawlessly written as usual, packed with quirky British historical facts hidden under the guise of a clever plot line and of course including an obscure and now obsolete profession. Throw in some utterly ridiculous storylines that someone just manage to be pulled off perfectly and completely believably and I was utterly invested throughout.
The writing is super polished but never feels pretentious. The humour wry but never overdone. The romance sweet but never sickly.
I have zero complaints.
Delighted to receive an ARC copy of this book, although I already had this on pre-order.
The writing is super polished but never feels pretentious. The humour wry but never overdone. The romance sweet but never sickly.
I have zero complaints.
Delighted to receive an ARC copy of this book, although I already had this on pre-order.
Want to read
August 29, 2025my number one girl kj charles getting published by tor? okaaay queen.
“queer bridgerton” though? julia quinn wishes she had kj charles’ pen game.
“queer bridgerton” though? julia quinn wishes she had kj charles’ pen game.
January 25, 2026
flirting by telling him his favorite colors to wear are made from arsenic and dead people, horrifying him to no end
thank you to the publisher for providing the advance review copy. full review to come
Bookstagram | Blog
thank you to the publisher for providing the advance review copy. full review to come
Bookstagram | Blog
Want to read
December 31, 2025Ngl it bothers the hell out of me that there's a Casey McQuiston comp in this blurb. 😭 But I'm always excited about a new KJC!
(Who, for the record, was setting standards for stellar M/M before McQuiston could legally vote.)
(Who, for the record, was setting standards for stellar M/M before McQuiston could legally vote.)
November 16, 2025
KJC, the "rising star" as the blurb calls her (crying laughing at that) yet again gives us a fantastic book full of hijinks and romance. Loved it!
RTC
RTC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
And she's done it again! All the stars for this heartfelt, hilarious romp.
I loved every second of this. Titus and Nico were just so perfect, bringing out the absolute best in each other, and watching Titus growing more and more confident was just everything. I also really loved how he saw the world and would constantly talk about colors (he used to have his own artist supply shop and make his own paints) and poisons. Nico was also really sweet, and I loved watching him starting to care and showing it with actions. These two were just. Couple goals! I mean. Except for the initial lying...
With every new KJ Charles book I'll be like, "this is definitely my favorite!". And then the next book comes out and. I really can't pick a favorite book of hers anymore, she just always delivers.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I loved every second of this. Titus and Nico were just so perfect, bringing out the absolute best in each other, and watching Titus growing more and more confident was just everything. I also really loved how he saw the world and would constantly talk about colors (he used to have his own artist supply shop and make his own paints) and poisons. Nico was also really sweet, and I loved watching him starting to care and showing it with actions. These two were just. Couple goals! I mean. Except for the initial lying...
With every new KJ Charles book I'll be like, "this is definitely my favorite!". And then the next book comes out and. I really can't pick a favorite book of hers anymore, she just always delivers.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
January 21, 2026
review tk
November 3, 2025
How to Fake It in Society really had every single thing I hope for in a KJ Charles book — a steamy and loving romance, a little chaos, a wacky Scheme™ — and it delivered!
November 7, 2025
consider me throughly charmed 🥰
but also I hate third-act break-ups with a burning passion 🔥
but also I hate third-act break-ups with a burning passion 🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2025
KJC is back and I couldn’t be happier! I adored this book; it contained all of the joyous plot twists, loveable yet flawed characters and assorted crimes that I could ever want 🥹 Plus my inner-voice is now talking in a French accent; zut alors!
Titus Pilcrow has accidentally inherited a fortune. Previously a shop keeper selling art supplies, he’s now trapped in a nightmare, fending off people who are desperate to get their hands on his newfound wealth. One of those people seems to be the suave, charming French aristocrat Nico, the Comte La Motte, however when the Comte offers friendship instead, Titus is eager to take him up on it.
But something about Nico’s story isn’t sitting quite right with Titus… and Titus has problems of his own, including a terrible ex lover, Henry, who’s threatening to out him if he doesn’t pay him off.
This was just wonderful - I adored Titus and Nico and the sheer drama that seemed to follow both of these men around; I enjoyed their budding relationship and also the slightly nightmarish knowledge that it was definitely all going to go wrong before it got better 🙈 The last 20% of the book was an absolute riot as everything went to hell and the building drama finally exploded!
Read How To Fake It In Society for:
✨ Accidentally inheriting a fortune
✨ Friendship with a sexy French aristocrat
✨ Escaping an abusive ex-lover
✨ Your green jacket is made of arsenic
✨ He’s definitely lying… about something
✨ This is why we don’t go to loan sharks
✨ Genderqueer key side character
✨ Being rich is terrible/ly convenient
✨ Paints & poisons used interchangeably
Thank you so much to PanMacmillan for an ARC, I absolutely loved it! It’s available to in April 2026 💕
Titus Pilcrow has accidentally inherited a fortune. Previously a shop keeper selling art supplies, he’s now trapped in a nightmare, fending off people who are desperate to get their hands on his newfound wealth. One of those people seems to be the suave, charming French aristocrat Nico, the Comte La Motte, however when the Comte offers friendship instead, Titus is eager to take him up on it.
But something about Nico’s story isn’t sitting quite right with Titus… and Titus has problems of his own, including a terrible ex lover, Henry, who’s threatening to out him if he doesn’t pay him off.
This was just wonderful - I adored Titus and Nico and the sheer drama that seemed to follow both of these men around; I enjoyed their budding relationship and also the slightly nightmarish knowledge that it was definitely all going to go wrong before it got better 🙈 The last 20% of the book was an absolute riot as everything went to hell and the building drama finally exploded!
Read How To Fake It In Society for:
✨ Accidentally inheriting a fortune
✨ Friendship with a sexy French aristocrat
✨ Escaping an abusive ex-lover
✨ Your green jacket is made of arsenic
✨ He’s definitely lying… about something
✨ This is why we don’t go to loan sharks
✨ Genderqueer key side character
✨ Being rich is terrible/ly convenient
✨ Paints & poisons used interchangeably
Thank you so much to PanMacmillan for an ARC, I absolutely loved it! It’s available to in April 2026 💕
October 25, 2025
3.5 stars
this was so sweet 🥺
this was so sweet 🥺
October 27, 2025
Easily one of my favorite KJ Charles books to date! And given how many of them I love and have reread countless times, that’s truly saying something. This book has everything: intrigue, romance, humor, mystery and ever evolving stakes, enchanting characters… I was utterly absorbed from beginning to end.
November 30, 2025
This was fine. I think the "reveals" take place far too late in the narrative and make earlier aspects of the plot a little muddy and confusing, and the actual romantic story feels pretty perfunctory, but it's a perfectly serviceable KJ Charles book.
January 9, 2026
4.5⭐️
"And until then, he would pretend he didn't see how Titus watched him, or think about the way their fingers curled together so instinctively. He wouldn't touch his hand again, come to that. Nico was a toucher, and Titus was a man desperate for touch, and it came so very natural to reach out to him."
...
Thank you to TOR Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
I have read two of KJ Charles' books before, and this was another hit for me! I love the way she so effortlessly captures yearning in such a natural way. She builds up the tension so well that it truly feels palpable.
In How to Fake It In Society, we start with quite an interesting premise. Titus, the fifth son of his family, is a colourist (aka he makes paints and sells them). Unfortunately for him, his ass of an ex-lover is his landlord, who wants to increase the rent. This is not something he can afford, so in search of some extra coin, he seeks out an older patron who owes him money. However, when he turns up at her home, he finds that she has been pushed down the stairs by her nephew is hopes to take his inheritance a little early. She does not want that and marries Titus on the spot to inherit the fortune and the home. But unbeknownst to him, she had another suitor who was trying to get the inheritance, too. And when he shows up, nothing goes as planned from here.
This story was such a delight! The dialogue kept me glued to the page from beginning to end. If you are someone who lives for lingering glances, blushing, and Mr Darcy's flexed hand, then I am sure you will love this book just as much as I did!
The ending made my heart feel full. Thank you for another wonderful read!
"And until then, he would pretend he didn't see how Titus watched him, or think about the way their fingers curled together so instinctively. He wouldn't touch his hand again, come to that. Nico was a toucher, and Titus was a man desperate for touch, and it came so very natural to reach out to him."
...
Thank you to TOR Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
I have read two of KJ Charles' books before, and this was another hit for me! I love the way she so effortlessly captures yearning in such a natural way. She builds up the tension so well that it truly feels palpable.
In How to Fake It In Society, we start with quite an interesting premise. Titus, the fifth son of his family, is a colourist (aka he makes paints and sells them). Unfortunately for him, his ass of an ex-lover is his landlord, who wants to increase the rent. This is not something he can afford, so in search of some extra coin, he seeks out an older patron who owes him money. However, when he turns up at her home, he finds that she has been pushed down the stairs by her nephew is hopes to take his inheritance a little early. She does not want that and marries Titus on the spot to inherit the fortune and the home. But unbeknownst to him, she had another suitor who was trying to get the inheritance, too. And when he shows up, nothing goes as planned from here.
This story was such a delight! The dialogue kept me glued to the page from beginning to end. If you are someone who lives for lingering glances, blushing, and Mr Darcy's flexed hand, then I am sure you will love this book just as much as I did!
The ending made my heart feel full. Thank you for another wonderful read!
December 19, 2025
This was another fantastic book by KJ. This book has everything I want - romance, humor, a captivating plot, scheming, emotions and wonderful characters. Both Titus and Nico were charming in their own way. You could feel the tension between them from the begining. Seeing Titus come out of his shell and Nico fall for him even when he didn’t want to was a treat.
The drama and scheming at the end had me laughing once I realized what was going on. I really enjoyed the plot around the painting and all of Titus’s knowledge on colors and paints. There was a lot of research put in and it’s mentioned briefly at the end.
This was a touching historical romance and I can’t wait to read more from this author! I’ve only read a few but have plenty on my TBR. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
The drama and scheming at the end had me laughing once I realized what was going on. I really enjoyed the plot around the painting and all of Titus’s knowledge on colors and paints. There was a lot of research put in and it’s mentioned briefly at the end.
This was a touching historical romance and I can’t wait to read more from this author! I’ve only read a few but have plenty on my TBR. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
Want to read
July 1, 2025My girl K.J. Charles getting picked up by TOR! Yas queen! You know I'm pouncing on that pre-order - and you should too! I'm so excited for her books to reach a wider and wider audience!
January 20, 2026
kj charles is, as always, a master of her craft! she truly is the gift that keeps on giving – i’ve read double digits’ worth of books by her, and there’s still a lovely backlog of stories awaiting me. of course, i couldn’t resist an upcoming title before tackling more of her backlist, and i’m so glad i did. i seriously love so many of her works, but this immediately shot to hold a treasured position as one of my favorites! that is no easy feat, but i absolutely loved this one.
part of why this worked so well for me is that i (unfortunately) love when one character has a big secret/plan to get something out of the other character, and when they ultimately forgo said plan because they fall in love! nico had secrets in spades, but i loved seeing that he had heart and humanity under it all that made his current situation make sense. and titus, my beloved, i loved seeing him blossom! overall it felt like such a purely indulgent story for me – even down to the side characters, particularly titus’s staff and nico’s cousin. pure fun, i devoured it in a day.
thank you to netgalley & the publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
part of why this worked so well for me is that i (unfortunately) love when one character has a big secret/plan to get something out of the other character, and when they ultimately forgo said plan because they fall in love! nico had secrets in spades, but i loved seeing that he had heart and humanity under it all that made his current situation make sense. and titus, my beloved, i loved seeing him blossom! overall it felt like such a purely indulgent story for me – even down to the side characters, particularly titus’s staff and nico’s cousin. pure fun, i devoured it in a day.
thank you to netgalley & the publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2025
The cackles I cackled with this one. Just listen to this premise.
Titus shows up to sell paint and somehow leaves married to a dying heiress, solely to spite her god-awful family. Suddenly rich, he has to fend off the shmoozers and grabby hands, but does that include Nico, the Comte de la Something French, who was supposed to marry the heiress himself?
True to form, KJ Charles’s writing was engaging with sparkling characters and historical details. I always race to her Author’s Notes to learn what’s historically accurate. Plus, I got to learn some inspired antique French swear words. Lots of cockroaches. Lots of defecating. Excellent.
Titus, as a colorman, had such a perspective on everything from artwork to clothes. All the little anecdotes on mixing paints and poisons made this one of the most unique books I’ve read this year. I’ll never look at painting the same way.
And Nico, mi amor, gave Gary Oldman in Dracula. I imagined those colorful circle frames with the wavy hair and big coat, all the while, something dangerous beneath concealed. Mmmh.
The plot and feel were a tad scattered compared to her other books, but this was still an 11/10. I loved that she acknowledged the rigorous editing the book underwent in the back pages. She’s got a refreshing realness and awareness, and I’m thoroughly grateful she didn’t, to use her words, take this one behind the barn.
How to Fake It in Society (and all KJ Charles books, really, are must-reads for anyone looking for well-written MM romance with spice, danger, and historical intrigue.
All my thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. And to KJ Charles for being my most auto-buy author.
Titus shows up to sell paint and somehow leaves married to a dying heiress, solely to spite her god-awful family. Suddenly rich, he has to fend off the shmoozers and grabby hands, but does that include Nico, the Comte de la Something French, who was supposed to marry the heiress himself?
True to form, KJ Charles’s writing was engaging with sparkling characters and historical details. I always race to her Author’s Notes to learn what’s historically accurate. Plus, I got to learn some inspired antique French swear words. Lots of cockroaches. Lots of defecating. Excellent.
Titus, as a colorman, had such a perspective on everything from artwork to clothes. All the little anecdotes on mixing paints and poisons made this one of the most unique books I’ve read this year. I’ll never look at painting the same way.
And Nico, mi amor, gave Gary Oldman in Dracula. I imagined those colorful circle frames with the wavy hair and big coat, all the while, something dangerous beneath concealed. Mmmh.
The plot and feel were a tad scattered compared to her other books, but this was still an 11/10. I loved that she acknowledged the rigorous editing the book underwent in the back pages. She’s got a refreshing realness and awareness, and I’m thoroughly grateful she didn’t, to use her words, take this one behind the barn.
How to Fake It in Society (and all KJ Charles books, really, are must-reads for anyone looking for well-written MM romance with spice, danger, and historical intrigue.
All my thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. And to KJ Charles for being my most auto-buy author.
January 6, 2026
4,5 stars.
I’ve loved every KJ Charles book I’ve read so far, especially for the aching yearning and chemistry she always brings to her romances, and this one was no exception. It’s such a lovely story, even though Nico’s situation doesn’t exactly make for the strongest or healthiest foundation for a relationship, given how much of it is built on lies. And yet, the care he has for Titus comes through so clearly that it’s hard not to be moved by it.
I also really enjoyed watching Titus slowly come out of his shell and figure out how to live with the impossible wealth he suddenly comes into. I don’t really see how the story could’ve done without a third-act breakup, but KJ Charles somehow makes it work so seamlessly, and that’s exactly why she remains one of my favourites.
I’ve loved every KJ Charles book I’ve read so far, especially for the aching yearning and chemistry she always brings to her romances, and this one was no exception. It’s such a lovely story, even though Nico’s situation doesn’t exactly make for the strongest or healthiest foundation for a relationship, given how much of it is built on lies. And yet, the care he has for Titus comes through so clearly that it’s hard not to be moved by it.
I also really enjoyed watching Titus slowly come out of his shell and figure out how to live with the impossible wealth he suddenly comes into. I don’t really see how the story could’ve done without a third-act breakup, but KJ Charles somehow makes it work so seamlessly, and that’s exactly why she remains one of my favourites.
November 7, 2025
I always get excited for another KJ Charles book, and when I saw she'd got one coming out with Tor? With their editors? Whoa boy. Super bloody excited.
The problem with being so excited about something is you have high expectations, which generally leads to disappointment. This one definitely did not at all. It was a lovely historical piece, with people I just wanted smush together and scream 'kiss' at.
The only piece of criticism I can find is that while there was drama, the resolution mostly seemed obvious, although I didn't *quite* see all of it coming!
Regardless, a beautiful and well written book with a touching historical romance.
4.5* rounded up.
The problem with being so excited about something is you have high expectations, which generally leads to disappointment. This one definitely did not at all. It was a lovely historical piece, with people I just wanted smush together and scream 'kiss' at.
The only piece of criticism I can find is that while there was drama, the resolution mostly seemed obvious, although I didn't *quite* see all of it coming!
Regardless, a beautiful and well written book with a touching historical romance.
4.5* rounded up.
January 19, 2026
I LOVEDDDD this. Thank you KJ Charles for killing my horrible months-long romance-reading slump. We've got a really sweet and earned romance between the two leads, scheming and shenanigans that not only keep the stakes alive but make the third act breakup make SENSE, and beautiful themes throughout of overcoming abuse and learning to stand up for your self.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5, maybe?
not quite sure where to land on this -- i liked it, but did i love it?
rtc!
not quite sure where to land on this -- i liked it, but did i love it?
rtc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly I want to thank the Publisher and the author for this ARC of How to Fake It in Society, I am so grateful to get to write this review.
Please note I am not going to put plot spoilers into this review, however, I am going to delve into the characters, and my feelings about the book, this may give some things away, so if you want to go in completely fresh, this may not be the review for you.
It’s no secret that I am a massive KJ Charles fan, I discovered her books last year whilst going through a rough spot in my life and they were exactly what I needed, in a very short time I had read over 20 of them, and then had to slow myself down so that I had something to look forward to. I was very excited for this new book, that being said it ended up exceeding my expectations, I was expecting a light hearted romp, and whilst it has those elements, it’s actually a lot deeper.
The opening chapter drops you into the action fairly quickly, with our main character Titus Pilcrow suddenly getting a big life change. From how fast this happened, it set my expectations for a fast paced comedy about a man fitting into his new found place in society, and I am pleased to say, that is not how this goes.
The pace really slows down and dives into one of the things that KJ does best, character development, and I have to say I LOVE Titus Pilcrow and his journey, at the start of the book he is downtrodden and desperate, and by the end he has found so much inner strength and healing.
As someone who also has experience of what a difficult family can do to you, it was so empowering to read his story, and to feel that connection with my own past. I am sure many of us can relate to being made to feel small in our lives, and having to find out the hard way that sometimes the people we think will love and protect us do the opposite.
Now I don’t want it to sound like this is heavy, it has heavier moments, but ultimately it deals with them in such a beautiful lighthearted way.
This could easily be a story of how money fixes everything, but it’s not that. The money is an important catalyst, however it isn’t what causes the transformation of our main character, his change is triggered by love, and it’s so beautiful to read.
That brings me onto our other lead, Nico, who I also loved. Again he is introduced as a bit of a scoundrel, but very quickly you realize he has a heart of gold. The challenges he faces, and the mistakes that he makes don’t come from greed, they come from his desire to help those he loves. That sometimes makes him impulsive, and also puts him in a bind that is one of the driving plot points of the novel.
I do feel that the changes he goes through as a character are not as pronounced or satisfying as they are for Titus, and that’s more because the challenges he faces are situational rather than internal. Yes he lies and makes a mess, however he does it due to circumstances and for someone he cares about.
He doesn’t turn from a rogue into a prince, because you see very quickly that he was never really a rogue, he had good intentions right from the get go and was forced by things outside of his control into the action he takes.
It’s very easy to see why Titus is so charmed by him, as the reader I was incredibly charmed myself, he is passionate, outspoken, and confident in a way that is very attractive, and for all his bad choices he makes some incredibly good ones too.
Ultimately I found that the plot of this book is not as important as the journey its characters go on. However I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the spectacular finale, the book really leaned back into the fun rompy promise it started with and produces an incredibly entertaining finale that could’ve come straight out of a French farce.
This was a book I didn’t want to end, I read it really quickly because I couldn’t put it down, and then felt sad when I was done with Titus and Nico. I would love to dive back into their world one day and see what fate has in store for them next.
In conclusion, this has everything you would expect from a KJ Charles book, it’s written incredibly well, it’s romantic, maybe a bit less steamy than some of her other books but I didn’t mind that at all for these characters. It was extremely entertaining and It subverts expectations in a wonderful way. If you have any inclination to read this at all I urge you to, you won’t regret it.
Please note I am not going to put plot spoilers into this review, however, I am going to delve into the characters, and my feelings about the book, this may give some things away, so if you want to go in completely fresh, this may not be the review for you.
It’s no secret that I am a massive KJ Charles fan, I discovered her books last year whilst going through a rough spot in my life and they were exactly what I needed, in a very short time I had read over 20 of them, and then had to slow myself down so that I had something to look forward to. I was very excited for this new book, that being said it ended up exceeding my expectations, I was expecting a light hearted romp, and whilst it has those elements, it’s actually a lot deeper.
The opening chapter drops you into the action fairly quickly, with our main character Titus Pilcrow suddenly getting a big life change. From how fast this happened, it set my expectations for a fast paced comedy about a man fitting into his new found place in society, and I am pleased to say, that is not how this goes.
The pace really slows down and dives into one of the things that KJ does best, character development, and I have to say I LOVE Titus Pilcrow and his journey, at the start of the book he is downtrodden and desperate, and by the end he has found so much inner strength and healing.
As someone who also has experience of what a difficult family can do to you, it was so empowering to read his story, and to feel that connection with my own past. I am sure many of us can relate to being made to feel small in our lives, and having to find out the hard way that sometimes the people we think will love and protect us do the opposite.
Now I don’t want it to sound like this is heavy, it has heavier moments, but ultimately it deals with them in such a beautiful lighthearted way.
This could easily be a story of how money fixes everything, but it’s not that. The money is an important catalyst, however it isn’t what causes the transformation of our main character, his change is triggered by love, and it’s so beautiful to read.
That brings me onto our other lead, Nico, who I also loved. Again he is introduced as a bit of a scoundrel, but very quickly you realize he has a heart of gold. The challenges he faces, and the mistakes that he makes don’t come from greed, they come from his desire to help those he loves. That sometimes makes him impulsive, and also puts him in a bind that is one of the driving plot points of the novel.
I do feel that the changes he goes through as a character are not as pronounced or satisfying as they are for Titus, and that’s more because the challenges he faces are situational rather than internal. Yes he lies and makes a mess, however he does it due to circumstances and for someone he cares about.
He doesn’t turn from a rogue into a prince, because you see very quickly that he was never really a rogue, he had good intentions right from the get go and was forced by things outside of his control into the action he takes.
It’s very easy to see why Titus is so charmed by him, as the reader I was incredibly charmed myself, he is passionate, outspoken, and confident in a way that is very attractive, and for all his bad choices he makes some incredibly good ones too.
Ultimately I found that the plot of this book is not as important as the journey its characters go on. However I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the spectacular finale, the book really leaned back into the fun rompy promise it started with and produces an incredibly entertaining finale that could’ve come straight out of a French farce.
This was a book I didn’t want to end, I read it really quickly because I couldn’t put it down, and then felt sad when I was done with Titus and Nico. I would love to dive back into their world one day and see what fate has in store for them next.
In conclusion, this has everything you would expect from a KJ Charles book, it’s written incredibly well, it’s romantic, maybe a bit less steamy than some of her other books but I didn’t mind that at all for these characters. It was extremely entertaining and It subverts expectations in a wonderful way. If you have any inclination to read this at all I urge you to, you won’t regret it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so happy when I got the email saying that my ARC application for this book was approved!
I absolutely LOVE it. I was simultaneously reading it non-stop and dreading the moment it would be over.
The same week that Titus is informed that he needs to vacate his paint shop (and also home) by his landlord and abusive ex, he finds himself being offered a fortune in exchange for marrying a dying old lady who is as spiteful as she is rich (honestly, what a queen). It takes some convincing but Titus agrees. From here onwards, things get a bit crazy: everybody seems to want a piece of Titus' new fortune, and among them, we can count Nicolas, who is in a tight situation after his cousin Eve borrowed a large sum of money from a nasty fella.
I found Nico very charming and funny. In a very KJ Charles' fashion, our little liar is both strong and tender, vulnerable in a quiet way. Offering solutions to every problem (except his own), trying hard to make everybody happy and navigating the confusing waters of morality while being stuck in an highly immoral situation, this is a KJ main character through and through.
I enjoyed watching Titus grow and he was very sweet. However, I can only take so much of a person complaining that they got an unexpected fortune for free. I don't feel particularly sorry for him being rich and I felt it was especially obnoxious of him to complain about it so much to someone who was in a bad situation economically. (But that is basically my only complain).
The relationship between Titus and Nico grows organically and, as many other KJ relationships, involves careful observance of each other, appreciation for what makes a person especial in their most ordinary qualities and frankly, just a love letter to passion: most often KJ's characters are at their most beautiful, interesting selves when they are surrounded by what makes them passionate (insects for Gareth in The secret lives of Gentlemen, drawing for Alec in Any old diamonds and paint for Titus in How to fake it in Society).
What makes love relationships so powerful in KJ books to me lies in the fact that characters are not interested in the same things. More often than not, one of them will be passionate about the most boring subject (with KJ's talent to make it sound interesting) and the topic of passion will be in the story like a little ball of yarn the love interest will slowly unravel. In doing so, this character will bring depth to the other, make it look more beautiful, more interesting, and is precisely in this active listening and watching that their relationship grows. To be loved is to be listened and seen, I guess.
KJ Charles has my absolute trust and this isn't something I say lightly. After reading most of her books I know she won't let me down, that I can relax, get comfy an trust the process. I like some of her books more than others, but I know she will navigate gender, sexual relationships and human interactions in the most green-flagged and satisfactory way. Not only this, but time and time again she will do this in a historical-appropriate manner as well, which is SO clever.
For so many reasons I don't want to spoil, How to fake it in Society was an amazing, heart-warming, funny and satisfactory read I can only recommend it and hope that you will do yourself a favour and start this book as soon as you can. You must.
I absolutely LOVE it. I was simultaneously reading it non-stop and dreading the moment it would be over.
The same week that Titus is informed that he needs to vacate his paint shop (and also home) by his landlord and abusive ex, he finds himself being offered a fortune in exchange for marrying a dying old lady who is as spiteful as she is rich (honestly, what a queen). It takes some convincing but Titus agrees. From here onwards, things get a bit crazy: everybody seems to want a piece of Titus' new fortune, and among them, we can count Nicolas, who is in a tight situation after his cousin Eve borrowed a large sum of money from a nasty fella.
I found Nico very charming and funny. In a very KJ Charles' fashion, our little liar is both strong and tender, vulnerable in a quiet way. Offering solutions to every problem (except his own), trying hard to make everybody happy and navigating the confusing waters of morality while being stuck in an highly immoral situation, this is a KJ main character through and through.
I enjoyed watching Titus grow and he was very sweet. However, I can only take so much of a person complaining that they got an unexpected fortune for free. I don't feel particularly sorry for him being rich and I felt it was especially obnoxious of him to complain about it so much to someone who was in a bad situation economically. (But that is basically my only complain).
The relationship between Titus and Nico grows organically and, as many other KJ relationships, involves careful observance of each other, appreciation for what makes a person especial in their most ordinary qualities and frankly, just a love letter to passion: most often KJ's characters are at their most beautiful, interesting selves when they are surrounded by what makes them passionate (insects for Gareth in The secret lives of Gentlemen, drawing for Alec in Any old diamonds and paint for Titus in How to fake it in Society).
What makes love relationships so powerful in KJ books to me lies in the fact that characters are not interested in the same things. More often than not, one of them will be passionate about the most boring subject (with KJ's talent to make it sound interesting) and the topic of passion will be in the story like a little ball of yarn the love interest will slowly unravel. In doing so, this character will bring depth to the other, make it look more beautiful, more interesting, and is precisely in this active listening and watching that their relationship grows. To be loved is to be listened and seen, I guess.
KJ Charles has my absolute trust and this isn't something I say lightly. After reading most of her books I know she won't let me down, that I can relax, get comfy an trust the process. I like some of her books more than others, but I know she will navigate gender, sexual relationships and human interactions in the most green-flagged and satisfactory way. Not only this, but time and time again she will do this in a historical-appropriate manner as well, which is SO clever.
For so many reasons I don't want to spoil, How to fake it in Society was an amazing, heart-warming, funny and satisfactory read I can only recommend it and hope that you will do yourself a favour and start this book as soon as you can. You must.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've just about run out of ways to gush about the singular greatness of K.J. Charles' work. If you're encountering her for the first time through mainstream publisher Tor/Bramble, you're in for a delightful treat. Nobody does witty writing, interesting plots, and above all brilliant characterization like KJC. I've been one of her biggest fans for more than ten years, and she continues to surprise me.
The bare bones of the How to Fake It plot are not unique. KJC has used the "fortune-hunter falls in love with the mark" several times, most recently in The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting, but the characters and the setting in this book make all the difference. Titus is one of KJC's best MCs ever (fight me on this, Justin Lazarus lovers). He is introduced as a barely scraping by paint color mixer with a vengeful ex. In the blink of an eye he becomes very rich, and he has no idea how to behave. Fortunately, an impoverished French nobleman is on hand to guide Titus through the purchase of a new wardrobe, behavior at Society events, and the disposal of greedy supplicants. Nicolas-Marc de Valois-Saint-Remy de La Motte is of course "a scoundrel and a shit," but he's under the gun to help his cousin repay a violent loan shark, so he doesn't really have a choice.
Watching Titus come into his own is a thing of wonder. He's a younger son whose rector father preached that the eldest son was the only family member who mattered, so he is used to being told his own wishes don't matter. He recently ended a relationship with a manipulative drama queen who somehow made every argument Titus' fault. He's completely out of place in Society (which begs the question of just who is the titular ""faker) and a target for rich wastrels who salivate at the chance to hustle him. But with Nico's help, and with his own emerging self-confidence, Titus finds a community in which he feels comfortable. His knowledge about paint color ingredients is fascinating, and ultimately vitally useful. He's not inexperienced sexually, but he's accustomed to doing whatever is necessary to keep his former lover happy, so he is astonished that Nico asks him about his own desires.
Nico is alternately charming and guilt-ridden. I didn't find him as compelling as Titus, but you can't go wrong with a character who can swear creatively in French. KJC keeps the suspense building to the inevitable, spectacular moment when the merde hits the fan, and the reckoning does not disappoint. Neither does the conclusion, which is dramatic, hilarious, romantic, and satisfying. I haven't even mentioned the story's understated but key secondary romance, or the important role played by Titus' inherited butler and cook, but this book contains multitudes and I have to stop somewhere.
ARC gratefully received from Net Galley and publisher.
The bare bones of the How to Fake It plot are not unique. KJC has used the "fortune-hunter falls in love with the mark" several times, most recently in The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting, but the characters and the setting in this book make all the difference. Titus is one of KJC's best MCs ever (fight me on this, Justin Lazarus lovers). He is introduced as a barely scraping by paint color mixer with a vengeful ex. In the blink of an eye he becomes very rich, and he has no idea how to behave. Fortunately, an impoverished French nobleman is on hand to guide Titus through the purchase of a new wardrobe, behavior at Society events, and the disposal of greedy supplicants. Nicolas-Marc de Valois-Saint-Remy de La Motte is of course "a scoundrel and a shit," but he's under the gun to help his cousin repay a violent loan shark, so he doesn't really have a choice.
Watching Titus come into his own is a thing of wonder. He's a younger son whose rector father preached that the eldest son was the only family member who mattered, so he is used to being told his own wishes don't matter. He recently ended a relationship with a manipulative drama queen who somehow made every argument Titus' fault. He's completely out of place in Society (which begs the question of just who is the titular ""faker) and a target for rich wastrels who salivate at the chance to hustle him. But with Nico's help, and with his own emerging self-confidence, Titus finds a community in which he feels comfortable. His knowledge about paint color ingredients is fascinating, and ultimately vitally useful. He's not inexperienced sexually, but he's accustomed to doing whatever is necessary to keep his former lover happy, so he is astonished that Nico asks him about his own desires.
Nico is alternately charming and guilt-ridden. I didn't find him as compelling as Titus, but you can't go wrong with a character who can swear creatively in French. KJC keeps the suspense building to the inevitable, spectacular moment when the merde hits the fan, and the reckoning does not disappoint. Neither does the conclusion, which is dramatic, hilarious, romantic, and satisfying. I haven't even mentioned the story's understated but key secondary romance, or the important role played by Titus' inherited butler and cook, but this book contains multitudes and I have to stop somewhere.
ARC gratefully received from Net Galley and publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Titus Pilcrow makes a precarious living as a shopkeeper, mixing colours to sell to artists. His former lover, and landlord, Henry is expressing his displeasure at their break-up by raising his rent - something Titus cannot afford. When visiting Miss Whitecross, a wealthy elderly very crotchety customer with a large order, Titus is sad to discover that she is very ill, unlikely to last the night. However, Miss Whitecross' butler invites Titus in with a proposition. Miss Whitecross had an understanding with Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte, she would marry him and leave him her considerable fortune in order to ensure her nephew Mr Laxton did not inherit. But the Comte is out of town and in order to thwart her nephew, who deliberately tripped her at the top of the stairs which has led to her current situation, Miss Whitecross needs to marry someone that night.
Suddenly a poor shopkeeper has inherited a house, possessions and a fortune of £8,000 a year. But along with the wealth comes the burden of society and people desperate to relieve poor Titus of his money, including Henry and Titus' estranged older brother Augustus. When the Comte (Nico) returns to London he is devastated to learn he has missed out on Miss Whitecross' fortune, especially since he and his cousin Eve were depending on the money to extract them from the clutches of a vicious moneylender after a dodgy scheme Eve cooked up went spectacularly wrong.
At first Nico just wants to try to shame Titus into sharing some of his fortune, but then he decides befriending Titus might bear more fruit in the short-term. Titus obviously needs help getting rid of the chancers and conmen that are coming out of the woodwork, just as much as he needs help in getting clothes to match his new status; Nico can do both these things. For his part, Titus might not know his way around society but as a tradesman he knows when people are using you for their own ends, and he doesn't mind that Nico is probably extending his credit with the tradespeople he takes Titus to visit.
I love me a historical romance, throw in a fortune-hunter, a long con, a fake accent, Marie-Antoinette, cross-dressers, some fascinating historical details, wonderful characters, and a wicked brother and I'm in heaven. I love, love, love KJ Charles' books and I only wish she would/could write them faster because I gobble them down too fast. Nico was such a lovely character, and Titus was a charming mixture of astute and naïve, loved it.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Suddenly a poor shopkeeper has inherited a house, possessions and a fortune of £8,000 a year. But along with the wealth comes the burden of society and people desperate to relieve poor Titus of his money, including Henry and Titus' estranged older brother Augustus. When the Comte (Nico) returns to London he is devastated to learn he has missed out on Miss Whitecross' fortune, especially since he and his cousin Eve were depending on the money to extract them from the clutches of a vicious moneylender after a dodgy scheme Eve cooked up went spectacularly wrong.
At first Nico just wants to try to shame Titus into sharing some of his fortune, but then he decides befriending Titus might bear more fruit in the short-term. Titus obviously needs help getting rid of the chancers and conmen that are coming out of the woodwork, just as much as he needs help in getting clothes to match his new status; Nico can do both these things. For his part, Titus might not know his way around society but as a tradesman he knows when people are using you for their own ends, and he doesn't mind that Nico is probably extending his credit with the tradespeople he takes Titus to visit.
I love me a historical romance, throw in a fortune-hunter, a long con, a fake accent, Marie-Antoinette, cross-dressers, some fascinating historical details, wonderful characters, and a wicked brother and I'm in heaven. I love, love, love KJ Charles' books and I only wish she would/could write them faster because I gobble them down too fast. Nico was such a lovely character, and Titus was a charming mixture of astute and naïve, loved it.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
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