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Dancing with the Wallflower

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Noah Conway has mastered the art of disappearing.
When you’re invisible, you can’t get hurt—or at least, that’s what he tells himself. Ashamed of the birthmark sprawling across his torso, Noah has spent his life blending into the background, afraid to get close to anyone. But then she shows up.

From the day Amber first moved to Noah’s school over two years ago, he was drawn to her—her humor, her persistent attempts to draw him into conversation despite his reclusive ways.

The problem? She’s dating the very guy who’s made Noah’s life miserable… and the only one who knows Noah’s secret.

Amber Moreland wants to fit in.
Having spent her childhood bouncing from one school to the next, Amber is used to being the “weird new girl.” She’s never been able to make real friends and is determined to change that.

When she first fell for her boyfriend, he was everything she thought she charming, athletic, popular. Most importantly, he made her feel seen—like she finally belonged. Two years later, she’s more isolated than ever.

As Noah grapples with whether to reveal himself—his feelings, his past, and the mark he’s hidden—Amber must decide whether to stay silent and keep shrinking, or finally break free and take a chance on finding herself…
Maybe with someone she never expected.

Dancing with the Wallflower is a coming-of-age romance about self-acceptance, quiet courage, and young love.

164 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2025

14 people want to read

About the author

Anastasia Layne

3 books24 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Jessica.
1,162 reviews29 followers
October 30, 2025
Amber has been with Connor for two years. In the beginning of their relationship she felt seen and like she finally fit in, but now she feels both lonely and more invisible than ever. Noah on the other hand prefers to be invisible. He's ashamed of his birthmark that covers most of his torso and he doesn't let anyone come close. He's still drawn to Amber, but her boyfriend is the only person who knows his secret.

A wonderful and sweet YA romance with realistic characters and problems! Amber has toned down herself and adapted her hobbies to match Connors, which isn't uncommon when you're in your teens. It's nice to see her when understanding begins to dawn on her! Noah is - in contrary to Connor - an attentive and thoughtful person, and it's almost painful to watch him hide "only" because of his birthmark. But yet again, it's logical from a teenager's perspective. I appriciate that we get dual POV's and it's great to follow their journey of self-acceptance!

* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
Profile Image for Swati (Booklover_Swii).
189 reviews2 followers
September 30, 2025
If you are looking for a short and sweet YA romance for yourself or maybe your teen, this is an easy pick, one you can easily read in a single sitting one evening!

Noah has had a crush on Amber since the first day she walked into school and became his locker neighbour! But, Amber fell for the class favorite and also Noah’s bully. But Amber doesn’t know Noah is being bullied, and for something he was born with! The same reason that forces him to be a wallflower, trying to make himself invisible. In the setting of an upcoming prom, Noah and Amber grow from friends to more, when Amber sees the red flags in her current relationship against the honest care and attention that Noah has for her.

Anastasia beautifully captured the chemistry between them, with small moments and gestures. Also, this small length romance wonderfully packed in a look into Noah’s character strengths, his mentoring relationship with his junior, Amber’s growth and realisation of what’s good for her. It was such a sweet feel good story.
59 reviews
September 30, 2025
I don't think Anastasia Layne is even capable of writing a YA sweet romance that I don't like. I read her books so quickly, and always regret not taking my time, because I want to stay in that world for just a little bit longer!!

Dancing with the Wallflower is no exception to that, and I highly recommend it to everyone!! PLEASE go check it out tomorrow when it releases!🥰
Profile Image for Kindled Thoughts.
17 reviews
September 23, 2025
Dancing with the Wallflower is such a sweet, emotional YA romance about learning to be seen and finding the courage to open up.

Noah has spent his whole life hiding, convinced that staying invisible keeps him safe. Amber, on the other hand, just wants to fit in after years of moving around. When their paths cross, you get this really tender, complicated story about love, friendship, and choosing to be honest about who you are.

I loved the way this book explored insecurity and self-acceptance while still giving all the swoony, heartfelt moments you’d want in a romance. Noah and Amber’s connection felt real and raw, awkward, messy, but also really beautiful.

If you’re into emotional YA love stories with a bit of slow burn and a lot of heart, this one’s worth picking up.
21 reviews
September 22, 2025
Adorable. Adorably, perfectly ADORABLE.

This story was short, sweet, and did I mention ADORABLE?

Noah is possibly one of my all time favorite MMCs. I'm a sucker for the wounded, guarded guy and Noah was so wonderfully sweet.

Amber was, unfortunately for me, all too relatable. I saw way too much of my teenage self in her, trying to fit in, staying with someone purely out of habit rather than love. Watching her grow through the story was incredible. And when she realizes she has feelings for Noah? I literally screamed.

Actually, I was grinning and squealing and screaming for a lot of this book.

I can't recommend this book enough. Not only was I able to binge it in one sitting, it also left me with a smile on my face and butterflies. READ IT!

I love all of Anastasia's books, and it feels like her writing is getting better and better! I can't wait to read what she has next.
Profile Image for Christina.
116 reviews1 follower
September 24, 2025
**ARC review**

Four⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to the author Anastasia Layne for sending me a digital ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
 
This was a beautifully written YA romantic novella. The peer pressure of being accepted is everything when you’re in school. Noah is bullied for something he was born with. Amber had her own struggles with a boyfriend who couldn’t care less about her. There was tiny spice for the YA romance audience, which acceptable since it was written for YA readers.

This book will come out on October 1.

A huge thanks to Anastasia Layne for giving me the privilege to read the book before the book is official.
Profile Image for Brandi.
95 reviews
September 19, 2025
If you have a teenager that only reads one romance, I beg you have it be this one. The storyline is short, simple, and tenderly sweet. It's about accepting people, even ourselves with our imperfections. It's about forgiveness and kindness. In a word, It's perfect. I wouldn't change a thing about it. Go read it for yourself and see if you agree.
Profile Image for Nathalie Najibi.
295 reviews
September 16, 2025
Okay, let me just say this: I devoured this book. Like, clear-your-schedule, stay-up-way-too-late, "just one more chapter" kind of devoured. And it was so worth it because this story gave me all the swoons, all the feels, and a new book boyfriend to obsess over. Noah. Sweet, steady, protective Noah. We all need a Noah in our lives. End of discussion.

From the second he stepped onto the page, I was gone. He isn’t the flashy, larger-than-life type. He’s the kind of mmc who quietly makes your heart fall apart in the best way possible. The kind who pays attention, who shows up, who makes you feel safe and wanted without ever trying too hard. He’s book-boyfriend gold. Honestly? He’s the kind of fictional man who sets the bar so high you’ll side-eye every real man around you afterward. (Sorry, not sorry.)

Amber’s character was such a standout too. She’s layered and flawed and REAL. Watching her journey unfold, seeing her stand up for herself, open her heart again, and learn to embrace love, was just as satisfying as the romance itself. It wasn’t just about her finding Noah, it was about her finding herself. And that made the story hit even harder.

And let’s talk about their relationship. The build-up? Chef’s kiss. The banter? Equal parts adorable and sharp. The chemistry? Off-the-charts electric. Every scene between them carried this undercurrent of “oh no, I’m falling for you but I don’t want to admit it yet” that had me absolutely feral. The tension was perfection, slow enough to make me ache for it, but never so slow that it felt dragged out. It was the kind of romance you live for as a reader, where you’re kicking your feet, clutching your Kindle, and maybe screaming into a pillow once or twice.

And then there’s the writing. It flowed so effortlessly that I forgot I was even reading. It felt more like living inside their world, high school hallways, whispered conversations, messy emotions and all. The author has a way of weaving humor, heart, and swoony romance into every page, and it made the whole thing completely unputdownable.

I also really appreciated how the book didn’t shy away from showing toxic dynamics (Connor, I am looking at you 👀) and contrasted them so beautifully with what a healthy, supportive relationship should look like. It made Noah shine even brighter and gave Amber’s growth so much more weight.

By the time I turned the last page, I wasn’t just in love with the romance, I was in love with the journey. I laughed, I swooned, I got mad at the villains of the story, and then I melted into a puddle of happiness. And when it was over, I just sat there thinking: “Wait…that’s it? How do I go on with my life now?!”

So yes, five stars. If I could, I’d give it ten. This book was heart-melting, swoony, emotional, and everything I want in a YA romance. If you’re wondering whether to read it, let me be clear: stop wondering and grab it. Because trust me, you deserve to meet Noah, too.

Thank you Anastasia for allowing me to read this book as an ARC and review it, all opinions are my own. <3
Profile Image for L. M. Ransom.
Author 25 books45 followers
September 17, 2025
I have loved every single one of Ms. Layne's YA romances, but this one really stands out. Why? Because I absolutely adore the MMC, Noah. Sweet, protective, but a loner due to something he's ashamed about. And Amber, the FMC, is a delight. Sweet and supportive, she does her best to stick up for her boyfriend, Connor, a star basketball player.

I read this book almost all in one sitting, it's that amazing. It is fast-paced, but not so much that the reader feels they're missing out on something. And it gives you all the feels!

I love that Amber realizes her relationship with Connor is not as idyllic as she'd always imaged it was, and begins seeing Noah in a new light after he gives her a ride home in a rainstorm. We're talking a torrential deluge! It's not until the book switches to Noah's POV (yay for dual POVs - they are the BEST) that the reader discovers his massive crush on her (which is adorable).

Noah and Amber have wonderful chemistry. The author does a great job showcasing that in the small moments the two have together (the prom fitting!) and also showing that Amber's relationship with Connor is falling apart, and has been for some time. I love how supportive Noah and Amber are of one another, and how patient Noah is with Michael, the freshman on the track team that he's taken under his wing. There are lots of cute, sweet moments sewn into the fabric of the book that will have you swooning!

If you love sweet YA romances, this book is for you. And if you love this one, you will love all of Ms. Layne's books.
Profile Image for Stephanie Young.
117 reviews3 followers
October 1, 2025
Dancing With the Wallflower by Anastasia Layne is out now!
What happens when the shy guy who tries to stay invisible falls for the sweet, pretty new girl who ends up with the locker right next to his? Well…his shyness does not work in his favor at the start, because she ends up dating his longtime bully.

Two years later, Noah loves Amber, but still from a distance. He’s there for her every time she needs him, too. Including when her boyfriend leaves her in a bad neighborhood far from home to walk home, in the rain. When she has an allergic reaction? He’s there. When her boyfriend continues to neglect and belittle her and she sees just how cruel he has been, and she finally breaks up with him, Noah is still right there.

Once her eyes are opened and she takes a step towards Noah, watching him become bold to confess his feelings for her and her embrace not only who she really is, but her feelings for him, too, is a thing of beauty.

This sweet young adult romance is out now, so you can go grab your copy!
I was given a complimentary e-copy. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Blake.
10 reviews5 followers
October 6, 2025
ARC review
(no spoilers)

First, as always, I want to thank the author for sending me an advance copy of her book and for allowing me to read one of her creations before sharing it with the world.
I don't know why, but I immediately identified with Noah, an ordinary boy who, due to bullying, isolates himself from the rest of the world. The only thing that keeps him going is his love for his schoolmate, Amber. The only problem is that Amber is currently dating the person Noah hates most in the world, Connor, aka his bully.
Noah is definitely a green flag, the best book boyfriend you could ever ask for. He'd rather remain invisible than expose his biggest secret to his classmates (and Amber). He's sweet, kind, and patient and he would do anything for her.
I also found Amber's story interesting. She would become anything just to fit in and make friends and she achieved that by getting together with the most popular guy of her school. But what she had to give up in the process? Does being “famous” and liked by a handsome guy mean more than her own freedom?
I found this story interesting because the author leads us to explore the inner journey of these two characters, to discover that, in the end, nothing matters more than being authentic to your feelings and being your true self. You can pretend to be anyone, wear any mask today's society imposes on you, say yes to anything just to please others, but ultimately, who has truly "won"?.
Profile Image for Erica.
415 reviews16 followers
October 23, 2025
I give this 4 1/2 Stars!

I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a clean young adult romance book and part of the Once Upon a Prom series. The main characters are Noah and Amber. Noah likes to stay invisible as he gets bullied. When Amber started going to school there she didn’t want to be know as the weird new girl so she starts dating a jock. Two years go by Noah is still drawn to Amber while Amber’s relationship is falling apart. Will Amber finally realize how horrible her boyfriend is and break up with him? Will she give Noah a chance? I loved Noah. He was a sweetheart and I just wanted to wrap my arms around him and give him a big hug. He deserves nothing but the best. I loved watching Noah and Amber spending time together. I loved watching them fall for each other. They were the perfect couple. Overall, this was a really cute book.
Profile Image for Jessica.
125 reviews5 followers
September 25, 2025
A huge shout out to Anastasia for allowing to read this wonderfully sweet YA romance. From the first chapter, I was hooked on Amber and Noah's budding relationship. This book had me kicking my feet (in my head, I was on a plane ☺️). What I enjoyed most about this book was the development of Noah and Amber's friendship before starting their romantic relationship. Both Noah and Amber experience great character growth in their own respective challenges. Amber is learning that she deserves to be in a relationship with someone who listens and respects her. And Noah, finding the confidence to stop hiding his birthmark. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a lighthearted and touching read, no matter what age you are. I believe you will deeply enjoy this book 💕
Profile Image for Tara Kanaan.
41 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2025
Dancing with the Wallflower is the kind of story that makes your heart ache in the best way possible. Anastasia Layne captures the quiet beauty of first love, self-discovery, and finding confidence in your own skin. I adored watching the main character’s journey from shy observer to someone brave enough to step into the spotlight—especially in those tender scenes at the school dance where everything finally comes together.

The chemistry between the two leads felt so natural and sweet, and the little details—like the floral notes, the soft pink cover vibe, and the innocent romantic tension—made this book feel like a warm hug. If you love gentle, emotional YA romances with relatable characters and heartfelt moments, this one will absolutely stay with you long after the last page.
Profile Image for Kylie Key.
Author 42 books124 followers
September 30, 2025
This book was such a sweet read with adorable characters. I love a broken boy and completely fell for Noah, who is self conscious about the birthmark on his body. He lacks confidence in himself and makes sure to keep it hidden at all times. He's crushing on his locker neighbor, Amber but she's dating his nemesis, the boy who knows about his birthmark and bullies him about it.
The story is everything I love in a Young Adult romance, all the swoony moments, fun banter, self discovery and first kisses. A wonderful read, I highly recommend!
Profile Image for Luci Taylor.
Author 7 books7 followers
September 17, 2025
This was my first book by Anastasia Layne, but it definitely won’t be my last! I absolutely loved Noah and Amber. Noah was so sweet and such a good guy. Amber was adorable and I loved reading all her fun facts about flowers. They made such a cute couple and I loved how they supported each other. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves the he falls first trope, the magic of first loves, and characters who are unapologetically themselves.
Profile Image for Moni.
613 reviews
October 9, 2025
* I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

* This is book 1 in the Once Upon A Prom Series and can be read as a standalone.
* First person dual pov
* Spice: kisses that don't get too heated (suitable for older teens and adults)
* CW: Read the author's note for more.

Right from the start, I was invested in Amber and Noah's story. I loved how Amber had to learn to accept that certain changes in her life needed to be made while Noah found the courage to use his voice and go after what he wanted. Their friendship was sweet and it was so satisfying to see their feelings for each other grow to love. (No, there is no cheating involved.) Though this is a novella, it feels like a complete story that those who love YA romance will enjoy.
42 reviews
October 18, 2025
A short YA read.
It explores the insecurities that teenagers face and also being bullied for something that you are born with.
Overall, a quick read for those who enjoy YA romance.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for isis ✦.
31 reviews1 follower
September 28, 2025
A heartwarming story that explores the sweetness of first love, the journey of self-discovery, and unconditional self-acceptance 💗

Thank you so much to the author for letting me read this ARC ✨
Profile Image for Suri.
211 reviews9 followers
December 5, 2025
This is such a cute and sweet story. I loved both characters and Noah is the sweetest. I loved seeing how he was with Amber and how much he saw her for who she was.

Amber shows some growth throughout the story and I loved seeing her stand up for herself. Noah's insecurities were raw and I loved how Amber only saw him, and not what he considered 'flaws'.

This is a great story for any young reader to understand the importance of self-love.
Profile Image for Natalia (Talia).
106 reviews8 followers
January 1, 2026
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️

Genre: YA Romance


This was a good read! The romance was sweet and so were the characters. Well some of them 😅 both MCs felt like real teens and I mean that as a compliment! Their internal dialogue was well done and hilarious 😂



***I have received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine and mine alone***
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

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