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How to Fake It in Society
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Expected 28 Apr 26Win a free print copy of this book!
26 days and 07:25:01
76 copies available
U.S. only
Casey McQuiston meets Queer Bridgerton in this stunning, artistic romance by genre powerhouse KJ Charles, author of
The Gentle Art of Fortune Hunting
"KJ Charles is, in my opinion, a titan of her genre.”
TALIA HIBBERT
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
"KJ Charles is, in my opinion, a titan of her genre.”
TALIA HIBBERT
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
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 16, 2026
12660 people want to read
About the author
K.J. Charles
66 books12.5k followersKJ is moving to Storygraph.
KJ 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. I won't read it.
KJ 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. I won't read it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 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!
Follow me on Instagram
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!
Follow me on Instagram
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
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars
KJ Charles is one of my favorite historical romance writers. How to Fake it in Society was an incredibly fun read that I never wanted to put down. The events that led to Titus stumbling into Society with more money than he knows what to do with were just the right level of absurd. He is in over his head and unprepared, but incredibly honest and genuine with the way he handles his new life. I love how his relationship with Nico lends him the confidence he needs to build a happy life for himself.
I was really impressed by how well the "con artist" portion of the story was handled. This setup easily could have spiraled into a mess of miscommunication, secrets, and betrayal. But KJ Charles strikes a good balance of tension and spiraling schemes without ever making the relationships feel inauthentic or unfair. I never felt like anyone was really being taken advantage of. The mistakes are natural, lessons are learned, characters grow, and forgiveness feels deserved.
How to Fake it in Society is a really emotionally rich read with characters that you love to root for, incredible tension, and engaging hijinks. This is a story about people finding the strength to be themselves.
Thank you so much to Bramble for the early copy!
Links to my TikTok | Instagram | Bindery Books
KJ Charles is one of my favorite historical romance writers. How to Fake it in Society was an incredibly fun read that I never wanted to put down. The events that led to Titus stumbling into Society with more money than he knows what to do with were just the right level of absurd. He is in over his head and unprepared, but incredibly honest and genuine with the way he handles his new life. I love how his relationship with Nico lends him the confidence he needs to build a happy life for himself.
I was really impressed by how well the "con artist" portion of the story was handled. This setup easily could have spiraled into a mess of miscommunication, secrets, and betrayal. But KJ Charles strikes a good balance of tension and spiraling schemes without ever making the relationships feel inauthentic or unfair. I never felt like anyone was really being taken advantage of. The mistakes are natural, lessons are learned, characters grow, and forgiveness feels deserved.
How to Fake it in Society is a really emotionally rich read with characters that you love to root for, incredible tension, and engaging hijinks. This is a story about people finding the strength to be themselves.
Thank you so much to Bramble for the early copy!
Links to my TikTok | Instagram | Bindery Books
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
January 21, 2026
review tk
March 25, 2026
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While I've been an enthusiastic KJC reader for years and eagerly pick up every new book she writes, not all of them hit with the same intensity. It would be foolish to expect everything in her large body of work to scratch my brain like it was made just for me, so I was excited to say, just last year, that I thought All of Us Murderers was "the strongest release in [her] catalogue yet." Well, I'm thrilled to say that How to Fake It in Society may have already dethroned it (RIP).
I honestly don't know how to put into words why this book worked so well. Every possible angle of analysis just clicks: the characters, the motivations/stakes, the realism (or rather, the consistency within the novel's universe), the twists, the pacing, the romance, the banter. Every cog in the machine spins in perfect harmony, and even taken apart, each element holds up. I think this is KJC's strongest book yet, in a technical manner (whether in prose or plot structure) ontop of having the her usual eye for detail and artistic flair. The book is so full of drama that you're kept on the edge of your seat while the pages fly by. Even the moments that could have turned into cheesy deus ex machina are so well foreshadowed that you can only admire how thoughtfully the author ties every thread together in the end.
I spent the first 20% of the book reveling in the mounting tension (made even better by the fact that I went in blind, and, for the first few pages, thought [PREMISE] You're then kept on edge, equal parts excited and anxious, as the characters head toward disaster while you wonder how they'll ever get themselves out of this mess. It was an incredible reading experience from start to finish.
I'm once again so grateful to have received an ARC from one of my favorite authors, and even happier that it turned out to be for a book that felt perfect from the epigraph to the author's note. I loved this and can't recommend it enough!
While I've been an enthusiastic KJC reader for years and eagerly pick up every new book she writes, not all of them hit with the same intensity. It would be foolish to expect everything in her large body of work to scratch my brain like it was made just for me, so I was excited to say, just last year, that I thought All of Us Murderers was "the strongest release in [her] catalogue yet." Well, I'm thrilled to say that How to Fake It in Society may have already dethroned it (RIP).
I honestly don't know how to put into words why this book worked so well. Every possible angle of analysis just clicks: the characters, the motivations/stakes, the realism (or rather, the consistency within the novel's universe), the twists, the pacing, the romance, the banter. Every cog in the machine spins in perfect harmony, and even taken apart, each element holds up. I think this is KJC's strongest book yet, in a technical manner (whether in prose or plot structure) ontop of having the her usual eye for detail and artistic flair. The book is so full of drama that you're kept on the edge of your seat while the pages fly by. Even the moments that could have turned into cheesy deus ex machina are so well foreshadowed that you can only admire how thoughtfully the author ties every thread together in the end.
I spent the first 20% of the book reveling in the mounting tension (made even better by the fact that I went in blind, and, for the first few pages, thought [PREMISE] You're then kept on edge, equal parts excited and anxious, as the characters head toward disaster while you wonder how they'll ever get themselves out of this mess. It was an incredible reading experience from start to finish.
I'm once again so grateful to have received an ARC from one of my favorite authors, and even happier that it turned out to be for a book that felt perfect from the epigraph to the author's note. I loved this and can't recommend it enough!
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*
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 💕
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!
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.
February 16, 2026
“i’m wearing arsenic. my tailor sold me arsenic.”
“it is very popular. and it’s really the only way to get that excellent green.”
when an elderly woman decides to spite her late sister’s cruel son by marrying on her deathbed and ensuring her fortune goes elsewhere, titus pilcrow’s luck changes overnight. he is transformed from poor shopkeeper to gentleman, with 8,000 pounds a year and a fine house to call his own.
nicolas-marc, comte de valois de la motte, had plans for that fortune. out of money and options and in debt to some terrifying men, he arrives on titus’s doorstep along with every other scammer, beggar, and long-lost acquaintance in london. he offers titus his services in adapting to society, and in return, a grateful titus offers nico a place to stay.
everything is finally working out for nico—until he falls in love with the gentle, quiet man he’s trying to scam.
i can’t lie, i was expecting more after the way i’ve seen k.j. charles’ books hyped. how to fake it in society is cute but not a standout. (at one point i saw that there was only one chapter left and still chose to go to bed instead of finishing the book that night, which is unusual for me.) to be fair, titus is a delight; he’s unexpectedly charming under his unassuming exterior, and i loved all the discussion of art (and colors—and what those colors are made from 🤭). everything else, though—nico, the romance, the debt storyline—was just… fine. i was whelmed. i think possibly the “quirkiness” of charles’ writing was oversold, or this is the wrong title to really see that on full display?
also, for a book with “society” in the title, high society was lacking almost entirely—titus has a realization not long after acquiring his newfound wealth that he doesn’t have to attend society events if he doesn’t want to, opts out, and that’s the end of it. i hoped for more of those aspects of regency society given the title and blurb.
overall a solid read, just not quite my cup of tea. i still plan to give some of charles’ other books a try.
i received an ARC from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
rating: 3.75/5.0 stars
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!
Read
February 16, 2026This was incredible! I loved everything about it. For anyone who wishes Bridgerton could be a little bit more historically accurate, and a lot more queer, then this is the perfect read for you.
As with every KJ Charles book, the characters are wonderful. Titus and Nico complement each other perfectly. Their backstories and motivations are complex and compelling; it’s honestly such a joy to read their stories gradually unfold.
There’s also a trans/sapphic subplot that mostly happens off-page but was such a lovely added element.
The setting is such a star of the book though. The premise sounds hilarious—and it is, but it’s brilliant. I loved how grounded the historical setting felt, and how much research KJ Charles clearly puts into all of her work to give it an air of realism. What I loved most, though, was how the Regency era feels firmly grounded in history. It’s not a separate, secluded moment in time, there are echoes of the fall-out from the French Revolution (and a subplot focussed around the Affair of the Diamond Necklace, which is one of my most favourite stories from that era), which adds a wonderful depth to the story.
If you love Regency/Georgian era romances and you’re looking for a book bursting with wonderful queer characters, then you’ll love it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As with every KJ Charles book, the characters are wonderful. Titus and Nico complement each other perfectly. Their backstories and motivations are complex and compelling; it’s honestly such a joy to read their stories gradually unfold.
There’s also a trans/sapphic subplot that mostly happens off-page but was such a lovely added element.
The setting is such a star of the book though. The premise sounds hilarious—and it is, but it’s brilliant. I loved how grounded the historical setting felt, and how much research KJ Charles clearly puts into all of her work to give it an air of realism. What I loved most, though, was how the Regency era feels firmly grounded in history. It’s not a separate, secluded moment in time, there are echoes of the fall-out from the French Revolution (and a subplot focussed around the Affair of the Diamond Necklace, which is one of my most favourite stories from that era), which adds a wonderful depth to the story.
If you love Regency/Georgian era romances and you’re looking for a book bursting with wonderful queer characters, then you’ll love it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 31, 2026
K.J. Charles’s writing + Will Watt's narration = the perfect pairing
RTC
I received an advance copy of the audiobook from Macmillan Audio. All review opinions are my own.
RTC
I received an advance copy of the audiobook from Macmillan Audio. All review opinions are my own.
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.
March 25, 2026
Talk about a wild set-up that immediately sucks you into the story- Titus is down on his luck about to be evicted from his shop by his ex-lover when an elderly (and dying) client asks him to marry her so she can screw over her horrible nephew from his inheritance. What started as a no-good, bad week turns into a whirlwind as he’s thrust into the ton due to his newly wealthy status. Nico, a Count from France who was wooing the old biddy to be his wife is now left in the lurch when he really needed that money.
But Nico’s not quite what he appears on the surface *cough* con artist *cough* and we love a man with layers. Something that makes Titus such a great character is that he Knows that he’s being played a bit by Nico and there are ulterior motives to why the handsome Comte is spending his time with him. But he’s also just kind of like, “well I’m going to let it happen because I like having his attention.” It shows he’s clever and not as guileless as he initially appears. I also found it really sweet how protective of Titus, Nico was. Particularly when it came to extracting him from social situations that made him uncomfy. But also when it comes to his abusive ex Henry, and later in the more physical sense. And the reverse was also true, seeing Titus eventually stand up to his eldest brother because of an insult to Nico had me literally applauding. The character development, for Titus mostly, was so well done and felt believable. Even when he’s grown more into his confidence, he’s still got that cinnamon roll soul and still manages to own this confidence in his own special way.
This had all of my favorite KJC trappings- two deeply compatible and capable people finding each other, side characters and villains with hilariously outrageous personalities, and a fun mystery that always concludes in the most satisfying way. Titus and Nico were so great together, and individually, and I had so much fun reading this. While the beginning is on the slower side, I was so entranced by these characters I didn’t mind the slow plot set up. A lot of this also has to do with my generally suspicious nature, so I knew things were going to get twisty. And then when it takes off around the 65% mark, I was wondering what was going to happen next and how these two were going to find their happily ever after. But they do! And it’s fabulous! The perfect ending to this fun and bonkers story that still manages to bring a sweet tender romance.
4.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Bramble for an eARC!
But Nico’s not quite what he appears on the surface *cough* con artist *cough* and we love a man with layers. Something that makes Titus such a great character is that he Knows that he’s being played a bit by Nico and there are ulterior motives to why the handsome Comte is spending his time with him. But he’s also just kind of like, “well I’m going to let it happen because I like having his attention.” It shows he’s clever and not as guileless as he initially appears. I also found it really sweet how protective of Titus, Nico was. Particularly when it came to extracting him from social situations that made him uncomfy. But also when it comes to his abusive ex Henry, and later in the more physical sense. And the reverse was also true, seeing Titus eventually stand up to his eldest brother because of an insult to Nico had me literally applauding. The character development, for Titus mostly, was so well done and felt believable. Even when he’s grown more into his confidence, he’s still got that cinnamon roll soul and still manages to own this confidence in his own special way.
This had all of my favorite KJC trappings- two deeply compatible and capable people finding each other, side characters and villains with hilariously outrageous personalities, and a fun mystery that always concludes in the most satisfying way. Titus and Nico were so great together, and individually, and I had so much fun reading this. While the beginning is on the slower side, I was so entranced by these characters I didn’t mind the slow plot set up. A lot of this also has to do with my generally suspicious nature, so I knew things were going to get twisty. And then when it takes off around the 65% mark, I was wondering what was going to happen next and how these two were going to find their happily ever after. But they do! And it’s fabulous! The perfect ending to this fun and bonkers story that still manages to bring a sweet tender romance.
4.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Bramble for an eARC!
March 26, 2026
Many thanks to Tor/Bramble for the preview. All opinions are my own.
I know I haven't read all of KJ Charles's books yet, but this one just became my absolute fav of hers. I LOVED IT SO MUCH. And it's all because of Titus Cesar Pilcrow. I would die for him. I want to wrap him in a warm blanket and give him tea and biscuits while I personally fight everyone that ever looked at him wrong. I know Nico would help me, but PRECIOUS SWEET BEBE I LOVE YOU.
This has the most absurd premise, but god it works so well. Titus was just trying to get paid for some paint when he showed up to Miss Whitecross's house. Next thing you know he's married to the old besom, she's dead, and now he's insanely rich. Too bad for poor Nico who WOULD have married her if only he hadn't gone out of town at exactly the wrong moment. Guess he'll just have to cozy up to Titus to try to get some money while absolutely not falling in love.
Titus truly is the most sweet angel who has been abused by his family and former lover horribly. I love how Nico comes to appreciate him and then teach him to stop letting anyone else walk over him. Their romance is just the sweetest, and even though you KNOW the lies are going to come out and ruin things, you can't help rooting for these two to get everything they ever wanted.
The ending insanity had me both on the edge of my seat and then laughing. I also may have shed some tears along the way. Truly one of the most delightful romances I've read and an instant fav. Highly recommended!
I know I haven't read all of KJ Charles's books yet, but this one just became my absolute fav of hers. I LOVED IT SO MUCH. And it's all because of Titus Cesar Pilcrow. I would die for him. I want to wrap him in a warm blanket and give him tea and biscuits while I personally fight everyone that ever looked at him wrong. I know Nico would help me, but PRECIOUS SWEET BEBE I LOVE YOU.
This has the most absurd premise, but god it works so well. Titus was just trying to get paid for some paint when he showed up to Miss Whitecross's house. Next thing you know he's married to the old besom, she's dead, and now he's insanely rich. Too bad for poor Nico who WOULD have married her if only he hadn't gone out of town at exactly the wrong moment. Guess he'll just have to cozy up to Titus to try to get some money while absolutely not falling in love.
Titus truly is the most sweet angel who has been abused by his family and former lover horribly. I love how Nico comes to appreciate him and then teach him to stop letting anyone else walk over him. Their romance is just the sweetest, and even though you KNOW the lies are going to come out and ruin things, you can't help rooting for these two to get everything they ever wanted.
The ending insanity had me both on the edge of my seat and then laughing. I also may have shed some tears along the way. Truly one of the most delightful romances I've read and an instant fav. Highly recommended!
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.
March 27, 2026
4.5/5 stars
How to Fake It in Society is the new gay Regency romance from KJ Charles. Shopkeeper and paintmaker Titus Pilcrow finds himself the unexpected heir of an immensely wealthy spinster’s fortune after marrying her on her deathbed to spite her evil nephew, and now he must navigate society and the hanger ons who want something from him. Unfortunately, that marriage was actually the original plan of Nico, the broke son of a disgraced French noblewoman, who needed that inheritance to fend off the moneylenders and restore his family’s reputation. Full of lies, Nico latches on to Titus and helps him establish himself in high society. Despite Titus knowing something’s up, he is drawn to Nico and allows himself to fall, but can their love survive with all of Nico’s lies?
This was just an utter delight to read. It’s fun, low stakes, and incredibly charming. The set-up is so unbelievable and it really leans into it with hilarity, shenanigans, and heartwarming situations. I loved both men. Titus is a rather self-contained man who does not know what to do with his sudden wealth, and this innocence and earnestness to be worthy of his fortune made him a really sympathetic character you can’t help but root for. Nico, meanwhile, can be frustrating, but you know he is doing his earnest best and that’s all I can ask of him. Their romance was cute, wholly charming, and sweet.
How to Fake It in Society is a sweet and charming historical romance that does not disappoint.
*Thank you Pan Macmillan for the eARC via NetGalley
How to Fake It in Society is the new gay Regency romance from KJ Charles. Shopkeeper and paintmaker Titus Pilcrow finds himself the unexpected heir of an immensely wealthy spinster’s fortune after marrying her on her deathbed to spite her evil nephew, and now he must navigate society and the hanger ons who want something from him. Unfortunately, that marriage was actually the original plan of Nico, the broke son of a disgraced French noblewoman, who needed that inheritance to fend off the moneylenders and restore his family’s reputation. Full of lies, Nico latches on to Titus and helps him establish himself in high society. Despite Titus knowing something’s up, he is drawn to Nico and allows himself to fall, but can their love survive with all of Nico’s lies?
This was just an utter delight to read. It’s fun, low stakes, and incredibly charming. The set-up is so unbelievable and it really leans into it with hilarity, shenanigans, and heartwarming situations. I loved both men. Titus is a rather self-contained man who does not know what to do with his sudden wealth, and this innocence and earnestness to be worthy of his fortune made him a really sympathetic character you can’t help but root for. Nico, meanwhile, can be frustrating, but you know he is doing his earnest best and that’s all I can ask of him. Their romance was cute, wholly charming, and sweet.
How to Fake It in Society is a sweet and charming historical romance that does not disappoint.
*Thank you Pan Macmillan for the eARC via NetGalley
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