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Wycliffe Family #1
A Lily in Disguise
One woman.
Three identities.
A handsome lord trying to unmask them all.
To escape the scandals tied to her name, Lillian Markley has gone by an alias for eight years. It was the only way for her to get a reputable job and save enough money to reunite with her sister in America. But when Lily is suddenly let go just as she’s about to reach her goal, she’s offered a salary she can’t refuse in exchange for the unthinkable:
She must masquerade as an heiress at a country estate for the summer.
Being exposed means facing prison, or worse—never seeing her sister again. Run-ins with kidnappers, a suspicious young boy, and a dangerous gentleman who knows her secret quickly has Lily spouting lies as often as she sips her tea—all while battling her growing feelings for Peter Wycliffe, the smiling host who seems to best her at every turn.
Nothing is as simple as it seems. And as the falsehoods begin to mount, Lily must use her arsenal of wits to keep her three facades separate, while preventing Peter—and herself—from discovering the true woman beneath them all.
Three identities.
A handsome lord trying to unmask them all.
To escape the scandals tied to her name, Lillian Markley has gone by an alias for eight years. It was the only way for her to get a reputable job and save enough money to reunite with her sister in America. But when Lily is suddenly let go just as she’s about to reach her goal, she’s offered a salary she can’t refuse in exchange for the unthinkable:
She must masquerade as an heiress at a country estate for the summer.
Being exposed means facing prison, or worse—never seeing her sister again. Run-ins with kidnappers, a suspicious young boy, and a dangerous gentleman who knows her secret quickly has Lily spouting lies as often as she sips her tea—all while battling her growing feelings for Peter Wycliffe, the smiling host who seems to best her at every turn.
Nothing is as simple as it seems. And as the falsehoods begin to mount, Lily must use her arsenal of wits to keep her three facades separate, while preventing Peter—and herself—from discovering the true woman beneath them all.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2020
472 people are currently reading
1233 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Scarlett
7 books272 followersJessica Scarlett writes amazing books and lame author bios. She hates the pressure of encapsulating everything about herself in a hundred words or less, because she’s too divergent, dynamic, and different for that. And simultaneously not that interesting.
She is the author of the Wycliffe Family Series, Slanted London series, and a couple plays. When not writing, she loves composing music, laughing with her four kids, or doing life on a ranch in Utah with her cinnamon-roll husband.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescarlett...
She is the author of the Wycliffe Family Series, Slanted London series, and a couple plays. When not writing, she loves composing music, laughing with her four kids, or doing life on a ranch in Utah with her cinnamon-roll husband.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescarlett...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
May 12, 2025
the author really was determined to suspend reality when she wrote this
Lillian has had a lot of names: Lillian, Julia Smith and, now, Mary. After spending the last ten years trying to stay hidden, now she must play the role of an aristocratic lady, Mary, for two entire months in order to receive the money the real Mary will give her in exchange. The only thing she needs to do, per real Mary’s orders, is flirt and break a couple of hearts.
What Lillian wasn’t expecting was one of them to be her own.
A Lily in Disguise started with a promise of a fun historical fiction if you were able to ignore how unrealistic everything was. I have to admit I was charmed at the beginning, but, the more I read, the more frustrated I became.
First, the author herself states that at the end of the book: ‘I was willing to compromise the integrity of the era for the sake of writing the kind of swoony, entertaining story that I would want to read’. That translates to: the heroine speaks like we do nowadays most of the time, they are allowed to be alone without chaperones constantly (and not only with the heroe, but with other men too) and she doesn’t have the manners people used to have back them. I didn’t mind that much, but I also didn’t love it. I’m sure historical romances are never really accurate, but I like to at least be able to pretend they are.
But this was not only inaccurate to the period it was set in, it was also incredibly silly and the plot was full of holes. I’m not someone known for enjoying comedy romances, so I get that the actual 4.41 average rating on goodreads is from readers who let themselves enjoy the ridiculous scenes instead of being annoyed by them. I was getting along at first, but I gave up when characters were part of the unrealistic aspect of the story.
Supposedly, Lily had been hiding for ten years, and she kept saying she was very good at lying when the facts told us otherwise. Everyone who mattered figured it out she was lying every time she tried. And, for some reason, they all went along with it. She was so cute and endearing, it doesn’t matter that she’s stealing the identity of a real lady, right?
All the characters felt flat and unrealistic, as well as the story itself. That being said, if you are better at suspending reality and enjoy silly situations, it was quite engaging.
Overall, I get why some people enjoyed this: sometimes you only need a trashy romance to have a little fun. But it doesn’t take away from the fact that this is the type of romance you find in wattpad.
Lillian has had a lot of names: Lillian, Julia Smith and, now, Mary. After spending the last ten years trying to stay hidden, now she must play the role of an aristocratic lady, Mary, for two entire months in order to receive the money the real Mary will give her in exchange. The only thing she needs to do, per real Mary’s orders, is flirt and break a couple of hearts.
What Lillian wasn’t expecting was one of them to be her own.
A Lily in Disguise started with a promise of a fun historical fiction if you were able to ignore how unrealistic everything was. I have to admit I was charmed at the beginning, but, the more I read, the more frustrated I became.
First, the author herself states that at the end of the book: ‘I was willing to compromise the integrity of the era for the sake of writing the kind of swoony, entertaining story that I would want to read’. That translates to: the heroine speaks like we do nowadays most of the time, they are allowed to be alone without chaperones constantly (and not only with the heroe, but with other men too) and she doesn’t have the manners people used to have back them. I didn’t mind that much, but I also didn’t love it. I’m sure historical romances are never really accurate, but I like to at least be able to pretend they are.
But this was not only inaccurate to the period it was set in, it was also incredibly silly and the plot was full of holes. I’m not someone known for enjoying comedy romances, so I get that the actual 4.41 average rating on goodreads is from readers who let themselves enjoy the ridiculous scenes instead of being annoyed by them. I was getting along at first, but I gave up when characters were part of the unrealistic aspect of the story.
Supposedly, Lily had been hiding for ten years, and she kept saying she was very good at lying when the facts told us otherwise. Everyone who mattered figured it out she was lying every time she tried. And, for some reason, they all went along with it. She was so cute and endearing, it doesn’t matter that she’s stealing the identity of a real lady, right?
All the characters felt flat and unrealistic, as well as the story itself. That being said, if you are better at suspending reality and enjoy silly situations, it was quite engaging.
Overall, I get why some people enjoyed this: sometimes you only need a trashy romance to have a little fun. But it doesn’t take away from the fact that this is the type of romance you find in wattpad.
September 5, 2020
4.5
This was a great debut novel by Ms. Scarlett. I'm so glad my friend Deb, recommended it to me. I enjoyed Lily as a character, she is trying so hard to reunite with her sister, and in order to do so she has found herself in a sticky situation. Playing an heiress at a summer house party. As the days go on and the lies get bigger she is getting more desperate as things seem to be falling apart.
I thought this was a fun read, well written and kept me up late reading to see what would happen with the truth came out! The romance was sweet, lots of nice moments between our leads. I did think the "bad guy" could have been flushed out a little more, and maybe played a bigger part in the story. But, overall I really enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more from Ms. Scarlett.
Content
Romance: Clean, mild kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild
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This was a great debut novel by Ms. Scarlett. I'm so glad my friend Deb, recommended it to me. I enjoyed Lily as a character, she is trying so hard to reunite with her sister, and in order to do so she has found herself in a sticky situation. Playing an heiress at a summer house party. As the days go on and the lies get bigger she is getting more desperate as things seem to be falling apart.
I thought this was a fun read, well written and kept me up late reading to see what would happen with the truth came out! The romance was sweet, lots of nice moments between our leads. I did think the "bad guy" could have been flushed out a little more, and maybe played a bigger part in the story. But, overall I really enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more from Ms. Scarlett.
Content
Romance: Clean, mild kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
September 8, 2023
Here we go: spoilerrific and hyperbolic is the order of the day because I cannot contain this new obsession. Going completely self-serving and just dumping some overenthusiastic thoughts because I have not been this consumed with a couple since Mimi did this to me with Gentleman Jim (btw, wholeheartedly would recommend this book for fans of Matthews).
I came in thinking, everybody loves book 3 so much, might as well start with book 1 which sounds fun and all, with its hidden identity- within a hidden identity-within a hidden identity premise. Understating to say, I was not at all prepared to be so gripped and have my life overtaken. It’s hard to pinpoint, but right off page one this writing clicked for me, and, that was it, Miss Julia Smith had me invested. I love a laser-focused, relentlessly motivated heroine with a vulnerable secret/goal. And personally, as someone with no guile and no game for deception, it’s so fun to read one so quick-on-her-toes.
But THEN. Then they meet. It's also near impossible to dissect how an author can so masterfully take a pretty ridiculous, borderline slapstick, pre-proper-introduction meet-cute (the way Wycliffe just immediately catches her vibe had me giddy) and by their next teasing interaction you’re like “THEY ARE TWO HALVES OF ONE SOUL AND ARE MEANT TO VERBALLY SPARR INTO ETERNITY”. These two cheeky incorrigibles were electric. Like, the level of battle of wits and banter is such that henceworth any fellow reader mentions their love of sharp-witted repartee and you’ll be like “Do you? Do you really? Read ‘A Lily in Disguise’, and come talk to me.” I was shaking my head and gasping out a guffaw in disbelief at this man’s mischievous impudence and her savage retaliations. Outstandingly, deliciously good. And, can I just say, this is how you do a first person heroine’s POV where you know you don’t have all the information, but it’s not because she’s a naive dolt. She’s just doing the best she can volleying to keep up this charade while falling for the unapologetic, playful flirt/hidden fathoms of emotion, highly-coveted viscount. There are just such singeing moments between them. Friend, that whist lesson at the library? “Yes, my darling, you’ve won me”- Whattt?
We were at 30%, and I was already quite nearly hyperventilating. This recurring concept of worthy foes, sparring, winning and conceding; I need a t shirt emblazoned with “The Queen Will Always Win.” I burn for the particular brand of He Falls First where Mr. Most-Aloof-Bachelor is just shaking in his boots, terrified of how she blew into his life and heart. When he literally gapes at her insight into his grieving soul: “You frighten me, Mary.” Ugh, stahp, can’t handle it.
Halfway walks in an adversary that again pushes her ability to keep up the farse and rival for her attention, and I was like “Wait, what?”. Throwing a wrench in and catching feels and making dastardly choices, Sir William? We shall see your comeuppance in the next. And getting to meet bookish, sardonic, stoically endearing Matthew has me too happy I decided to read in order *yay me*
Before I force myself to cease this gushing, I have to mention how absolutely blazing the third act drama angst was. I was glued to this way too late at night and could physically feel myself heating as, very conducive to their characteristic wordy exchanges, we were given an ultimate symphonic scene of confrontation and inner turmoil just spilling out. Oh, how I love an intense argument row, and, yep, if they had been electric just at teasing, imagine the voltage when achy longing, conflicted devotion, mistrust/rejection collide. It was such a perfect scenario for a mutual realization/giving in resolution, loved how all those ends were tied, and my only recourse to chase away the absolute daze of a book hangover that’s looming is to jump to the next. Here’s to hoping my heart can take it.
Content notes: kissing only, on page parent-loss grief, on page attempted kidnapping/assault (not graphic).
I came in thinking, everybody loves book 3 so much, might as well start with book 1 which sounds fun and all, with its hidden identity- within a hidden identity-within a hidden identity premise. Understating to say, I was not at all prepared to be so gripped and have my life overtaken. It’s hard to pinpoint, but right off page one this writing clicked for me, and, that was it, Miss Julia Smith had me invested. I love a laser-focused, relentlessly motivated heroine with a vulnerable secret/goal. And personally, as someone with no guile and no game for deception, it’s so fun to read one so quick-on-her-toes.
But THEN. Then they meet. It's also near impossible to dissect how an author can so masterfully take a pretty ridiculous, borderline slapstick, pre-proper-introduction meet-cute (the way Wycliffe just immediately catches her vibe had me giddy) and by their next teasing interaction you’re like “THEY ARE TWO HALVES OF ONE SOUL AND ARE MEANT TO VERBALLY SPARR INTO ETERNITY”. These two cheeky incorrigibles were electric. Like, the level of battle of wits and banter is such that henceworth any fellow reader mentions their love of sharp-witted repartee and you’ll be like “Do you? Do you really? Read ‘A Lily in Disguise’, and come talk to me.” I was shaking my head and gasping out a guffaw in disbelief at this man’s mischievous impudence and her savage retaliations. Outstandingly, deliciously good. And, can I just say, this is how you do a first person heroine’s POV where you know you don’t have all the information, but it’s not because she’s a naive dolt. She’s just doing the best she can volleying to keep up this charade while falling for the unapologetic, playful flirt/hidden fathoms of emotion, highly-coveted viscount. There are just such singeing moments between them. Friend, that whist lesson at the library? “Yes, my darling, you’ve won me”- Whattt?
We were at 30%, and I was already quite nearly hyperventilating. This recurring concept of worthy foes, sparring, winning and conceding; I need a t shirt emblazoned with “The Queen Will Always Win.” I burn for the particular brand of He Falls First where Mr. Most-Aloof-Bachelor is just shaking in his boots, terrified of how she blew into his life and heart. When he literally gapes at her insight into his grieving soul: “You frighten me, Mary.” Ugh, stahp, can’t handle it.
Halfway walks in an adversary that again pushes her ability to keep up the farse and rival for her attention, and I was like “Wait, what?”. Throwing a wrench in and catching feels and making dastardly choices, Sir William? We shall see your comeuppance in the next. And getting to meet bookish, sardonic, stoically endearing Matthew has me too happy I decided to read in order *yay me*
Before I force myself to cease this gushing, I have to mention how absolutely blazing the third act drama angst was. I was glued to this way too late at night and could physically feel myself heating as, very conducive to their characteristic wordy exchanges, we were given an ultimate symphonic scene of confrontation and inner turmoil just spilling out. Oh, how I love an intense argument row, and, yep, if they had been electric just at teasing, imagine the voltage when achy longing, conflicted devotion, mistrust/rejection collide. It was such a perfect scenario for a mutual realization/giving in resolution, loved how all those ends were tied, and my only recourse to chase away the absolute daze of a book hangover that’s looming is to jump to the next. Here’s to hoping my heart can take it.
Content notes: kissing only, on page parent-loss grief, on page attempted kidnapping/assault (not graphic).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2024
3 stars ✨
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this regency book, the Hidden Identity trope always intrigues me and that I was very curious about it. It ended up being pretty cute overall, but I do have some little things to note.
So, she lies a lot. And as a reader, I was cringing as that’s never good in books, right? So it was almost suspenseful because of that part. But she isn’t as smooth as she thinks she is so I was expecting him to reaction eventually with all the odds comments and hints she was dropping—and then of course waiting for the shoe to drop it the rug to be pulled out from under her. It actually didn’t go completely how I thought it would in terms of reveals and confessions, which made the book more entertaining.
I liked both of their wits and would have really liked seeing his point of view as well, because it took me a while to warm up to him. (I truly think I would have enjoyed this book slightly more had it had his POV.) He kind of seemed like a guy who takes nothing seriously? Very playful and flirting with her, but we see some deeper emotions eventually. The ending quarter of the story felt like a regency drama and gave me flashes of scenes like a movie, which was neat. I did like the two of them together and the meet-cute, plus the summer party setting was enjoyable as well. Very summery and the rain scene was excellent.
Overall this wasn’t bad and I probably will see about the rest of the series, but I didn’t enjoy it so much to buy my own copy. I think many clean regency fans will really enjoy this one as it has a good story and potential!
Main Content-
No Christian faith content besides a couple mentions of prayers/praying and a mention of a young Lily and her sister playing Noah’s ark (where Lily insisted that she wouldn’t have drowned and climbed the tallest tree); Someone calls a girl’s spending habits as “ungodly”; Some people and/or their actions are called “the devil himself” in regards to a man’s handsome appearance) or “devils”; Lily thinks that Peter smells like “heaven”; The phrases “heaven knows”, “good heavens”, and “heavens!” are said; A mention of a tent at a fair for reading people’s fortunes; A mention of Mother Nature.
No major language, but mentions of curses (not written) and words like gah, blast/blast it, confound it, drat, dash it all, and who gives a fig are used; Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Whole premises of this book is Lily lying to others and being hired to pretend she is an heiress (by said heiress), she does felt guilt and remorse over all the lying and deceit, but justifies it some of the time; Lily risks hanging or imprisonment if she is caught impersonating someone in a higher class; Lily’s stepbrother was hateful and abusive to her (we see a flashback of his behavior towards her when she was little).
Pain, Being attacked, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being held at knife point, Being pushed/shoved, Being chased by a wild dog (up to a few sentences); When threatened, Lily talks about if the kidnappers having to cut off her head and the blood (a little graphic, won’t lie); Slapping someone; Seeing others fighting, injured, & bleeding (up to a few sentences).
Many mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deceit; Mentions of deaths & grieving (including of parents, a spouse, and a sibling); Mentions of a story & picture of a death/murder & the blood; Mentions of blood/bleeding, injuries, pain, & attacks and kidnapping attempts and blackmail; Mentions of alcohol & drinking; Mentions of hunting, hunting trips, & dead animals; A few mentions of thieves & stealing; A couple mentions of gambling.
Hand kisses,
Almost kisses (up to a few sentences),
1 kiss lasting two sentences,
1 kiss lasting a few paragraphs/6+ sentences,
Staring at lips; Touches, Dancing, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth, Flutters, & Smelling (up to a few sentences); Flirting, Blushes, & Winks; Noticing & Staring (including his muscles and neck, up to a few sentences); Love, falling in love, attraction, & the emotions;
Peter suggests going into Lily’s bedroom and she says she will pretend he didn’t say that; A man leers at Lily; Peter calls dancing sensuous.
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of reputations & chaperones; Mentions of flirting, flirts, blushes, & winks; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of scandals (including a couple being caught in a shocking embrace); A few mentions of crushes.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this regency book, the Hidden Identity trope always intrigues me and that I was very curious about it. It ended up being pretty cute overall, but I do have some little things to note.
So, she lies a lot. And as a reader, I was cringing as that’s never good in books, right? So it was almost suspenseful because of that part. But she isn’t as smooth as she thinks she is so I was expecting him to reaction eventually with all the odds comments and hints she was dropping—and then of course waiting for the shoe to drop it the rug to be pulled out from under her. It actually didn’t go completely how I thought it would in terms of reveals and confessions, which made the book more entertaining.
I liked both of their wits and would have really liked seeing his point of view as well, because it took me a while to warm up to him. (I truly think I would have enjoyed this book slightly more had it had his POV.) He kind of seemed like a guy who takes nothing seriously? Very playful and flirting with her, but we see some deeper emotions eventually. The ending quarter of the story felt like a regency drama and gave me flashes of scenes like a movie, which was neat. I did like the two of them together and the meet-cute, plus the summer party setting was enjoyable as well. Very summery and the rain scene was excellent.
Overall this wasn’t bad and I probably will see about the rest of the series, but I didn’t enjoy it so much to buy my own copy. I think many clean regency fans will really enjoy this one as it has a good story and potential!
Main Content-
No Christian faith content besides a couple mentions of prayers/praying and a mention of a young Lily and her sister playing Noah’s ark (where Lily insisted that she wouldn’t have drowned and climbed the tallest tree); Someone calls a girl’s spending habits as “ungodly”; Some people and/or their actions are called “the devil himself” in regards to a man’s handsome appearance) or “devils”; Lily thinks that Peter smells like “heaven”; The phrases “heaven knows”, “good heavens”, and “heavens!” are said; A mention of a tent at a fair for reading people’s fortunes; A mention of Mother Nature.
No major language, but mentions of curses (not written) and words like gah, blast/blast it, confound it, drat, dash it all, and who gives a fig are used; Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Whole premises of this book is Lily lying to others and being hired to pretend she is an heiress (by said heiress), she does felt guilt and remorse over all the lying and deceit, but justifies it some of the time; Lily risks hanging or imprisonment if she is caught impersonating someone in a higher class; Lily’s stepbrother was hateful and abusive to her (we see a flashback of his behavior towards her when she was little).
Pain, Being attacked, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being held at knife point, Being pushed/shoved, Being chased by a wild dog (up to a few sentences); When threatened, Lily talks about if the kidnappers having to cut off her head and the blood (a little graphic, won’t lie); Slapping someone; Seeing others fighting, injured, & bleeding (up to a few sentences).
Many mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deceit; Mentions of deaths & grieving (including of parents, a spouse, and a sibling); Mentions of a story & picture of a death/murder & the blood; Mentions of blood/bleeding, injuries, pain, & attacks and kidnapping attempts and blackmail; Mentions of alcohol & drinking; Mentions of hunting, hunting trips, & dead animals; A few mentions of thieves & stealing; A couple mentions of gambling.
Hand kisses,
Almost kisses (up to a few sentences),
1 kiss lasting two sentences,
1 kiss lasting a few paragraphs/6+ sentences,
Staring at lips; Touches, Dancing, Embraces, Hand holding, Warmth, Flutters, & Smelling (up to a few sentences); Flirting, Blushes, & Winks; Noticing & Staring (including his muscles and neck, up to a few sentences); Love, falling in love, attraction, & the emotions;
Peter suggests going into Lily’s bedroom and she says she will pretend he didn’t say that; A man leers at Lily; Peter calls dancing sensuous.
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of reputations & chaperones; Mentions of flirting, flirts, blushes, & winks; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of scandals (including a couple being caught in a shocking embrace); A few mentions of crushes.
March 27, 2021
This is a debut novel? THIS IS A DEBUT NOVEL?
I adored this story! It was so complex and real and heartwarming and heartbreaking and I just loved it. I reach a part in a good romance where I have this sudden and total excitement to see the two main characters fall in love. It’s almost like I see a snippet of their life in one or two hundred pages, and can’t wait to get to experience it. I have to get to know the characters first, like them, and be enjoying the plot to have this moment... the moment came within the first 20% of this book! And it only got better from there.
Peter and Lily were a hoot, Peter stoke the show with his extreme charm and wit, and each of the secondary characters were so well-rounded. The many plots/subplots kept me guessing and continually surprised me. It was very well done!
I had a few teeny tiny complaints over some little moments, but not enough to make me dock even a quarter of a star. A fantastic book, and I can’t wait to read more!
I adored this story! It was so complex and real and heartwarming and heartbreaking and I just loved it. I reach a part in a good romance where I have this sudden and total excitement to see the two main characters fall in love. It’s almost like I see a snippet of their life in one or two hundred pages, and can’t wait to get to experience it. I have to get to know the characters first, like them, and be enjoying the plot to have this moment... the moment came within the first 20% of this book! And it only got better from there.
Peter and Lily were a hoot, Peter stoke the show with his extreme charm and wit, and each of the secondary characters were so well-rounded. The many plots/subplots kept me guessing and continually surprised me. It was very well done!
I had a few teeny tiny complaints over some little moments, but not enough to make me dock even a quarter of a star. A fantastic book, and I can’t wait to read more!
July 26, 2020
I needed a fun read and I got it with this book. I adore books with banter and this one had wit on ever page, what with characters keeping score on verbal matches. Peter was such a great hero and just...happy sigh....yeah. Great writing. Good pacing. I’m a happy bibliophile.
July 30, 2020
This was such a fun read! The complexities of Lily's various personas kept the plot interesting and moving at a steady pace. I loved Peter with his teasing personality and really felt for him as he falls for Lily but is confused by her as well. She is just trying to keep her head above water as she interacts in society and all the complications that arise. There are issues of trust, jealousy, betrayal, and forgiveness, all interwoven with Lily's ultimate resolve to leave England and these new relationships to join her sister. I enjoyed the characters and the way the author allowed me to connect with their emotions and experiences- the desperation, confusion, attraction, friendship, and romance. The scenes with Lily and Peter's fun banter were my favorite, especially since there is a strong undercurrent of longing on his part and apprehension on hers. The secondary characters rounded out the story well and I hope the author writes more with them as main characters. I'm excited to read more from this author! Definitely a must read for fans of sweet Regency romance.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
February 26, 2023
Reread in Feb. 2023
Still 5 stars! I teared up. AGAIN.
If you like clean historical romances, you NEED to read this.
In fact, if you like romances at all- you need to read this.
__________________________
One of my favorite books of 2020!!!
I found this book perusing through GR recs and so I'm going to reiterate everyone else's sentiments: This is a DEBUT novel?!
You know a story is good when you can feel the tension between characters, when you smile and laugh because they are smiling and laughing, and you feel sick in your gut when something is going badly.... this story did that for me! I absolutely loved this book. Jessica Scarlett did such an amazing job with the characters and the plot- and don't even get me started on the angst and the build up. I didn't want it to end. I am probably going to purchase it in paperback eventually.
I was also ECSTATIC to learn that there is a second book in this series that was published in July, as well as a novella! Thank God for Kindle Unlimited.
5 stars. One of my new favorites!
Still 5 stars! I teared up. AGAIN.
If you like clean historical romances, you NEED to read this.
In fact, if you like romances at all- you need to read this.
__________________________
One of my favorite books of 2020!!!
I found this book perusing through GR recs and so I'm going to reiterate everyone else's sentiments: This is a DEBUT novel?!
You know a story is good when you can feel the tension between characters, when you smile and laugh because they are smiling and laughing, and you feel sick in your gut when something is going badly.... this story did that for me! I absolutely loved this book. Jessica Scarlett did such an amazing job with the characters and the plot- and don't even get me started on the angst and the build up. I didn't want it to end. I am probably going to purchase it in paperback eventually.
I was also ECSTATIC to learn that there is a second book in this series that was published in July, as well as a novella! Thank God for Kindle Unlimited.
5 stars. One of my new favorites!
November 9, 2021
A Charming, Delightful Story
I read A Lily in Disguise in two sittings (staying up much too late)! It has all the markings of a proper, enchanting, and heartfelt Regency Romance. I love a good love story, and that is precisely what this is. I can’t wait to read book #2 in this series!
I read A Lily in Disguise in two sittings (staying up much too late)! It has all the markings of a proper, enchanting, and heartfelt Regency Romance. I love a good love story, and that is precisely what this is. I can’t wait to read book #2 in this series!
May 13, 2021
WOw just wow! I read this because I wanted a regency but I didn't give it much chance! Sorry Jessica! The story line sounded ok, I worried a new author would bumble a bit and really, another disguise book. Those never are believable. I was SO wrong!! This was so great!!! Geezzz Lily was amazing!! Or should I say Mary or Julia, I could not believe this was so believable. I could totally see all of this happening and imagined it as a movie! It would be so awesome! Then there was Peter! Gosh what a leading man! The writing was whity, heart tugging, fun and just so good! I didn't want it to end! But I wanted it to end so Bad! I am so excited to have a new author to follow! Yay!
This was a proper romance with some great tension, swoony moments :}
This was a proper romance with some great tension, swoony moments :}
August 19, 2024
What an awesome book! I definitely want to continue the series!
July 12, 2020
Tug of war
"The Lily in white shall in love delight"
- William Blake
If only it was that simple for Lillian Markley, who has been wrongly cast out & disowned in scandal, along with her sister.
Years later, her sister has been helped with passage to America to start anew, & Lily just needs a little more money to be able to join her. So faced with bleak employment prospects, when she receives an opportunity to make the remainder by taking the place of an heiress, she agrees to impersonate the woman for a 2 month visit to Wycliff.
This is one of those stories that had both my right brain & left brain in a tug of war as I read. It's rough in several respects - my left brain was pointing out some historical issues, while my right brain was going "shh, I don't care"; and then my left brain was pointing out some dialogue issues, while my right brain was going "shh, this is getting good"; and then my left brain was pointing out some plot issues while my right brain was going "shh, I can't wait to see how the author is going to get them out of this mess..."
My right brain won. There were a number of issues with the story, but this new author is so good at engaging the reader, that my right brain refused to be sidetracked by anything.
Honestly my primary frustration was with some of the unexplained or inconclusive side threads by the end - not cliffhangers, just things I wanted resolution on. Since this is the beginning of a series, hopefully we can look forward to getting them in the next delightful episode!
*Clean romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
"The Lily in white shall in love delight"
- William Blake
If only it was that simple for Lillian Markley, who has been wrongly cast out & disowned in scandal, along with her sister.
Years later, her sister has been helped with passage to America to start anew, & Lily just needs a little more money to be able to join her. So faced with bleak employment prospects, when she receives an opportunity to make the remainder by taking the place of an heiress, she agrees to impersonate the woman for a 2 month visit to Wycliff.
This is one of those stories that had both my right brain & left brain in a tug of war as I read. It's rough in several respects - my left brain was pointing out some historical issues, while my right brain was going "shh, I don't care"; and then my left brain was pointing out some dialogue issues, while my right brain was going "shh, this is getting good"; and then my left brain was pointing out some plot issues while my right brain was going "shh, I can't wait to see how the author is going to get them out of this mess..."
My right brain won. There were a number of issues with the story, but this new author is so good at engaging the reader, that my right brain refused to be sidetracked by anything.
Honestly my primary frustration was with some of the unexplained or inconclusive side threads by the end - not cliffhangers, just things I wanted resolution on. Since this is the beginning of a series, hopefully we can look forward to getting them in the next delightful episode!
*Clean romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
August 15, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5 stars.
I loved everything about this book: the characters, the setting, the lively banter, the chemistry, the big reveal, the ending! If you enjoy clean Regency romance with a unique premise and great characters then you won’t want to miss this book. This new release is the first in a series and I’m already looking forward to book two. Go grab this on kindle for 99 cents or KU.
SYNOPSIS: One woman. Three identities. A handsome lord trying to unmask them all.
To escape the scandals tied to her name, Lillian Markley has gone by an alias for eight years. It was the only way for her to get a reputable job and save enough money to reunite with her sister in America. But when Lily is suddenly let go just as she’s about to reach her goal, she’s offered a salary she can’t refuse in exchange for the unthinkable: She must masquerade as an heiress at a country estate for the summer.
Being exposed means facing prison, or worse—never seeing her sister again. Run-ins with kidnappers, a suspicious young boy, and a dangerous gentleman who knows her secret quickly has Lily spouting lies as often as she sips her tea—all while battling her growing feelings for Peter Wycliffe, the smiling host who seems to best her at every turn.
Nothing is as simple as it seems. And as the falsehoods begin to mount, Lily must use her arsenal of wits to keep her three facades separate, while preventing Peter—and herself—from discovering the true woman beneath them all.
Many thanks for the free eARC to review. All opinions are my own.
I loved everything about this book: the characters, the setting, the lively banter, the chemistry, the big reveal, the ending! If you enjoy clean Regency romance with a unique premise and great characters then you won’t want to miss this book. This new release is the first in a series and I’m already looking forward to book two. Go grab this on kindle for 99 cents or KU.
SYNOPSIS: One woman. Three identities. A handsome lord trying to unmask them all.
To escape the scandals tied to her name, Lillian Markley has gone by an alias for eight years. It was the only way for her to get a reputable job and save enough money to reunite with her sister in America. But when Lily is suddenly let go just as she’s about to reach her goal, she’s offered a salary she can’t refuse in exchange for the unthinkable: She must masquerade as an heiress at a country estate for the summer.
Being exposed means facing prison, or worse—never seeing her sister again. Run-ins with kidnappers, a suspicious young boy, and a dangerous gentleman who knows her secret quickly has Lily spouting lies as often as she sips her tea—all while battling her growing feelings for Peter Wycliffe, the smiling host who seems to best her at every turn.
Nothing is as simple as it seems. And as the falsehoods begin to mount, Lily must use her arsenal of wits to keep her three facades separate, while preventing Peter—and herself—from discovering the true woman beneath them all.
Many thanks for the free eARC to review. All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2024
I loved this book so much— so this will probably be a long, fangirling review. I loved A Lord of Many Mask (I read it first) but I loved this one slightly more for a few reasons but mostly just because of Peter. I mean, he was ✨perfect✨ and I loved him a lot.
I loved the characters in this book. They were so well written! They genuinely feel real to me.
I loved Lily’s character. I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about her given the circumstances but I really, really liked her. She was relatable in so many ways. I love that we get to really see how her life came to be the way it was through flashbacks. I also love that it’s told in first person. It made me feel like I got to know her so much better.
And Peter *sigh* He’s perfect. That’s all. He was so sweet and kind and patient with Lily. I loved him so much. He’s one of those heroes that’s not easily forgotten.❤️
I loved the side characters! I love Eliza’s character. And Matthew! I loved him. I can’t wait for his story! As for William, he’s complicated. We’ll leave it at that.😂 I found the other side characters amusing. Except for Thomas. Strongly disliked him for obvious reasons.
The romance was so sweet and again, perfect. I love Lily and Peter together so much. Their meet-cute was the cutest thing ever. Possibly the cutest I’ve ever read. I don’t know but I loved it. Their banter, their battle of wits, their chemistry… it was the best. I had so much fun reading about them. I love that they start off as friends and then fall in love. I felt like they genuinely got to know each other before they started falling in love which is the best.
I also just loved the setting of this story! I think it would make a perfect summer read because it has all of the summer regency vibes and I loved it! I loved the house party plot too. It was really fun.
There was also a lot of suspense and tension in the plot as Lily tries to hide her identity. I was on the edge of my seat more than once.
I love that this book also has depth. It’s a fun and sweet romance but I love that it’s also more than that. These characters have real struggles and grief. It was written in a beautiful way.
Also, just have to mention, I so appreciate how sweet and clean it was. No language and the romance was nothing beyond a few kisses.
In conclusion, I loved this book! It had me smiling and laughing the whole time— except for the times I started tearing up. That ending had me tearing up. Basically, it was just a really good book. I’m beyond excited to read Matthew’s story. I’ve grown quite attached to this family. 🥰
2024 reread-
Rereading this was so much fun! I just love these characters SO much.🥰 It was the perfect end of summer read!
I loved the characters in this book. They were so well written! They genuinely feel real to me.
I loved Lily’s character. I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about her given the circumstances but I really, really liked her. She was relatable in so many ways. I love that we get to really see how her life came to be the way it was through flashbacks. I also love that it’s told in first person. It made me feel like I got to know her so much better.
And Peter *sigh* He’s perfect. That’s all. He was so sweet and kind and patient with Lily. I loved him so much. He’s one of those heroes that’s not easily forgotten.❤️
I loved the side characters! I love Eliza’s character. And Matthew! I loved him. I can’t wait for his story! As for William, he’s complicated. We’ll leave it at that.😂 I found the other side characters amusing. Except for Thomas. Strongly disliked him for obvious reasons.
The romance was so sweet and again, perfect. I love Lily and Peter together so much. Their meet-cute was the cutest thing ever. Possibly the cutest I’ve ever read. I don’t know but I loved it. Their banter, their battle of wits, their chemistry… it was the best. I had so much fun reading about them. I love that they start off as friends and then fall in love. I felt like they genuinely got to know each other before they started falling in love which is the best.
I also just loved the setting of this story! I think it would make a perfect summer read because it has all of the summer regency vibes and I loved it! I loved the house party plot too. It was really fun.
There was also a lot of suspense and tension in the plot as Lily tries to hide her identity. I was on the edge of my seat more than once.
I love that this book also has depth. It’s a fun and sweet romance but I love that it’s also more than that. These characters have real struggles and grief. It was written in a beautiful way.
Also, just have to mention, I so appreciate how sweet and clean it was. No language and the romance was nothing beyond a few kisses.
In conclusion, I loved this book! It had me smiling and laughing the whole time— except for the times I started tearing up. That ending had me tearing up. Basically, it was just a really good book. I’m beyond excited to read Matthew’s story. I’ve grown quite attached to this family. 🥰
2024 reread-
Rereading this was so much fun! I just love these characters SO much.🥰 It was the perfect end of summer read!
June 22, 2020
I just finished reading this story and I thoroughly enjoyed it! More so than I even expected to actually. I thought the author did a brilliant job with the way she made the story flow along, especially when there are so many background histories for multiple characters to incorporate into the story. There are some flashbacks to the past throughout which brings everything together neatly in the end but the suspense of the story... the not quite having all of the pieces together at the start and not knowing exactly who knows what until almost right at the finish... it made this story so intriguing and engaging for me.
As for the character development - I loved all the characters! Well all the good ones at any rate 😉 Peter and Lily of course being the main characters were my favourites but I also really loved Matthew as well as Eliza and William (although I’m still deciding how much I truly like him) and even ones that didn’t have as prominent a role in the story, like Quincy and even Jennie I guess... These are all characters that I look forward to reading more about in future stories.
This is a clean and wholesome story. It ticks all the boxes as far as I’m concerned. It was witty and amusing. Engaging and intriguing with just enough suspense and romance to leave me happy and eager for more. I’m looking forward to reading the sequel to this book which we get to have sneak peak of at the very end.
My thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of her book and for introducing me to her wonderful character. I can’t wait to read more about them.
I am under no obligation to leave a review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
As for the character development - I loved all the characters! Well all the good ones at any rate 😉 Peter and Lily of course being the main characters were my favourites but I also really loved Matthew as well as Eliza and William (although I’m still deciding how much I truly like him) and even ones that didn’t have as prominent a role in the story, like Quincy and even Jennie I guess... These are all characters that I look forward to reading more about in future stories.
This is a clean and wholesome story. It ticks all the boxes as far as I’m concerned. It was witty and amusing. Engaging and intriguing with just enough suspense and romance to leave me happy and eager for more. I’m looking forward to reading the sequel to this book which we get to have sneak peak of at the very end.
My thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of her book and for introducing me to her wonderful character. I can’t wait to read more about them.
I am under no obligation to leave a review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
January 6, 2021
Lily in Disguise was a fun read from a new Regency author. From the beginning I was drawn in by the premise the heroine juggling three different identities as she becomes entangled in a scheme where she’s forced to impersonate someone far above her own humble class, one that quickly proves dangerous when she captures the notice of her handsome host.
Lily struggles to keep her lies from spinning out of control, a task made more difficult when she’s already fighting to protect her heart from falling in love with Lord Wycliff. Though she frustrated me at moments, overall I liked and sympathized with her. Peter was of course the charming hero who was thoroughly endearing. I loved watching him simultaneously fall for Lily while remaining thoroughly perplexed by her; he had quite the time trying to keep track of and untangling her various personas. It made for a unique obstacle, and kept the plot engaging. I also really liked the other members of the Wycliff family and am eagerly anticipating their stories.
Despite the lovely Regency setting, this story has a more modern feel, but I had so much fun with the plot I found myself not caring. Instead I was thoroughly invested in what was going to happen and how our hero and heroine would come together. Their romance was sweet, full of agonizing but delightful tension brought on by their circumstances, and filled with an abundance of witty banter. I really enjoyed them as a couple and thought their story was both charming and thoroughly enjoyable. I’m eager to read more from Jessica Scarlett.
Lily struggles to keep her lies from spinning out of control, a task made more difficult when she’s already fighting to protect her heart from falling in love with Lord Wycliff. Though she frustrated me at moments, overall I liked and sympathized with her. Peter was of course the charming hero who was thoroughly endearing. I loved watching him simultaneously fall for Lily while remaining thoroughly perplexed by her; he had quite the time trying to keep track of and untangling her various personas. It made for a unique obstacle, and kept the plot engaging. I also really liked the other members of the Wycliff family and am eagerly anticipating their stories.
Despite the lovely Regency setting, this story has a more modern feel, but I had so much fun with the plot I found myself not caring. Instead I was thoroughly invested in what was going to happen and how our hero and heroine would come together. Their romance was sweet, full of agonizing but delightful tension brought on by their circumstances, and filled with an abundance of witty banter. I really enjoyed them as a couple and thought their story was both charming and thoroughly enjoyable. I’m eager to read more from Jessica Scarlett.
May 14, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: family abandonment/estrangement
Lillian Markley has been hiding her identity for years, so it's not a tall order when she's asked to impersonate another woman and stay with the Wycliffe family for two months. Despite the dangers of who she really is being revealed, the money she will earn will allow her to sail to America and reunite with her sister. What she doesn't expect is for her heart to be stolen by the charming Viscount Wycliffe. From the moment they meet, Peter and Lily form a playful competition that leads to much more than friendship. Will Lily abandon her plans to go to America and take a chance on revealing her secrets to the man she loves?
I'm going to give this a soft four stars because as much as I enjoyed this, I did get frustrated with how often Lily pushed Peter away and denied herself a chance at happiness. I loved Peter from the start and could tell he was absolutely smitten with Lily. The flirting and teasing was so fun! There were so many moments where these two almost kissed or declared their feelings, and it was such torture waiting for them to finally get a happy ending. Without giving any spoilers, there was one character who went back and forth between being a hero and a villain. It was interesting to see how things played out with him and Lily. I really liked seeing the friendship between Lily and Peter's siblings. Eliza was a sweetheart, and Matthew slowly grew to like Lily after initially being suspicious about her identity. I'm looking forward to reading their stories in the next books!
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: family abandonment/estrangement
Lillian Markley has been hiding her identity for years, so it's not a tall order when she's asked to impersonate another woman and stay with the Wycliffe family for two months. Despite the dangers of who she really is being revealed, the money she will earn will allow her to sail to America and reunite with her sister. What she doesn't expect is for her heart to be stolen by the charming Viscount Wycliffe. From the moment they meet, Peter and Lily form a playful competition that leads to much more than friendship. Will Lily abandon her plans to go to America and take a chance on revealing her secrets to the man she loves?
I'm going to give this a soft four stars because as much as I enjoyed this, I did get frustrated with how often Lily pushed Peter away and denied herself a chance at happiness. I loved Peter from the start and could tell he was absolutely smitten with Lily. The flirting and teasing was so fun! There were so many moments where these two almost kissed or declared their feelings, and it was such torture waiting for them to finally get a happy ending. Without giving any spoilers, there was one character who went back and forth between being a hero and a villain. It was interesting to see how things played out with him and Lily. I really liked seeing the friendship between Lily and Peter's siblings. Eliza was a sweetheart, and Matthew slowly grew to like Lily after initially being suspicious about her identity. I'm looking forward to reading their stories in the next books!
June 2, 2022
Not as good as book three. Full review to come!
February 1, 2022
3.45
I read the 3rd book in this series first, and it was excellent! This book wasn't quite as good. It started out a little slower, escalated to a 4 star in the middle and then dropped back at the end. I never like when the heroine is afraid to tell the hero everything, like she's sure he won't like her anymore...I think that theme is over used as well. Also, the author did do a good job with the hero's character, but her heroine was a bit too similar to the last girl. And I just finished the novela that precludes this series and that girl is similar too. Overall, I would still recommend reading this one, it's fun to see the characters earlier in life (instead of in the 3rd book of the series), it was still entertaining and probably best to read in order, oops..
I read the 3rd book in this series first, and it was excellent! This book wasn't quite as good. It started out a little slower, escalated to a 4 star in the middle and then dropped back at the end. I never like when the heroine is afraid to tell the hero everything, like she's sure he won't like her anymore...I think that theme is over used as well. Also, the author did do a good job with the hero's character, but her heroine was a bit too similar to the last girl. And I just finished the novela that precludes this series and that girl is similar too. Overall, I would still recommend reading this one, it's fun to see the characters earlier in life (instead of in the 3rd book of the series), it was still entertaining and probably best to read in order, oops..
July 6, 2020
I could say a lot, but I'll start with perhaps the most prominent point I want to make: Peter is *everything*.
Now that we've established that . . . I adored this book. I'm still a little blown away that it's a debut, to be honest. For me, characters can make or break a book. And thankfully, Scarlett gets the characters right. Whether you love them, hate them, or aren't quite sure how you feel about them, these characters stick with you.
The chemistry between Lily and Peter was magnificent and their banter was top-notch, but it's the heart of the story that truly brings it home. I can't wait to read the next one in the series! I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of the author. All expressed opinions belong to me.
Now that we've established that . . . I adored this book. I'm still a little blown away that it's a debut, to be honest. For me, characters can make or break a book. And thankfully, Scarlett gets the characters right. Whether you love them, hate them, or aren't quite sure how you feel about them, these characters stick with you.
The chemistry between Lily and Peter was magnificent and their banter was top-notch, but it's the heart of the story that truly brings it home. I can't wait to read the next one in the series! I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book courtesy of the author. All expressed opinions belong to me.
July 29, 2024
This series has been on my TBR list forever! I keep hearing about the Wycliffe family. I prefer to listen to books, but these aren't available on audio. I had to wait until I had a break from ARCs to be able to actual read. It was worth the wait! And I wish that I had read them sooner!
I love a good mistaken identity story. This one was more than good! Peter is the best! I loved the twists that this plot provided. I am looking forward to continuing this series!
I love a good mistaken identity story. This one was more than good! Peter is the best! I loved the twists that this plot provided. I am looking forward to continuing this series!
August 18, 2020
This book! Ahh! It was so so so good. It had all the amazing feels like you get from Edenbrooke. Loved the main characters... Peter! Um...yes! Loved the tension and the banter.
Stop what you’re doing and go read this book!
Stop what you’re doing and go read this book!
June 18, 2023
Let me start this off by saying that I'm very, very picky when it comes to Regency romance. Georgette Heyer is the author I grew up reading, and the bar by which I judge everything by...so needless to say I don't usually end up even finishing half of the Regencies I start.
I'd heard good things about another book by the author, A Lady on the Chase. So I'd thought I'd give the Wycliffe family series a shot...and oh my goodness, this book took my breath away! I never thought I'd enjoy a Regency novel again, but then Jessica Scarlett fell from heaven, clearly, to gift us with her talent!
Ok, where to start? Right off the bat, I appreciated that this book is written in first person (which is my favorite POV to read) AND that it's not dual POV. I hate hate hate reading the hero's POV, ESPECIALLY in historical romance. Very rarely does a romance novel hero POV even feel remotely like an actual man, so I'd prefer to just skip it. And there's the added realism of just not KNOWING what the hero is thinking. I like men to have a little mystery about them, you know what I mean? That's what makes romance so magical.
Second, the style and the dialogue read sufficiently historically accurate for me. There was only one instance that I remember feeling pulled out of the story, and I think it was the use of the word "plus." The prose is simple and timeless, not historically styled enough as to make it difficult to read, but a nice balance of quick pacing and flow to suit a modern reader without resorting to choppy sentences and words like "okay," which have become disturbingly present in Regency romances lately...
The plot! A good Regency for me must rely on two things (or both) as the source of its conflict, and they are manners and adventure. If I can't read a social comedy, then I want some daring adventure ala The Scarlet Pimpernel and other books of that type. This book managed both. We had the secret engagement and the scandalous use of Christian names. We also had a dastardly brother, kidnappers, secret identities, and just a touch of a love triangle. The plot was touching and emotional without getting too psychological (because that's another thing I can't stand in Regencies, characters who speak like they're at a therapy session) and managed to build up to an impressively dramatic ending in all the best ways.
And one last note: MATTHEW WAS ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE & I CAN'T BELIEVE WE GET A BOOK ABOUT HIM TOO ok that is all.
I'd heard good things about another book by the author, A Lady on the Chase. So I'd thought I'd give the Wycliffe family series a shot...and oh my goodness, this book took my breath away! I never thought I'd enjoy a Regency novel again, but then Jessica Scarlett fell from heaven, clearly, to gift us with her talent!
Ok, where to start? Right off the bat, I appreciated that this book is written in first person (which is my favorite POV to read) AND that it's not dual POV. I hate hate hate reading the hero's POV, ESPECIALLY in historical romance. Very rarely does a romance novel hero POV even feel remotely like an actual man, so I'd prefer to just skip it. And there's the added realism of just not KNOWING what the hero is thinking. I like men to have a little mystery about them, you know what I mean? That's what makes romance so magical.
Second, the style and the dialogue read sufficiently historically accurate for me. There was only one instance that I remember feeling pulled out of the story, and I think it was the use of the word "plus." The prose is simple and timeless, not historically styled enough as to make it difficult to read, but a nice balance of quick pacing and flow to suit a modern reader without resorting to choppy sentences and words like "okay," which have become disturbingly present in Regency romances lately...
The plot! A good Regency for me must rely on two things (or both) as the source of its conflict, and they are manners and adventure. If I can't read a social comedy, then I want some daring adventure ala The Scarlet Pimpernel and other books of that type. This book managed both. We had the secret engagement and the scandalous use of Christian names. We also had a dastardly brother, kidnappers, secret identities, and just a touch of a love triangle. The plot was touching and emotional without getting too psychological (because that's another thing I can't stand in Regencies, characters who speak like they're at a therapy session) and managed to build up to an impressively dramatic ending in all the best ways.
And one last note: MATTHEW WAS ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE & I CAN'T BELIEVE WE GET A BOOK ABOUT HIM TOO ok that is all.
July 19, 2020
"Because one thought kept recurring so vividly: that he and I were the same after all."
This book is just amazing! It is romantic, witty, heartwarming, moving, and so much more! Whenever I picked up "A Lily in Disguise", I was whisked back in time, and went on an incredible journey with this story.
This is the first book in Jessica Scarlett's "Wycliffe Family" series, and I hope there will be many more! WOW does she know how to write characters who are incredibly real, and who have so much heart you can't help but want the best for them. She truly knows how to bring the world of her story to life, and I was drawn in from the first moment to the very last.
Lily, whose name has been slandered in society, has had to pretend to be someone else for many years. She accepts the position to pose as the wealthy Mary Raynsford in order to earn enough money to travel to America to be with her (Lily's) sister. What could possibly go wrong? And, even so, what could possibly go absolutely right?
(Possible Spoilers!)
I found myself rooting for Lily and Peter from the very first moment. Their witty banter back and forth is such a joy to read, and you can feel their chemistry and pull toward one another right away. And, may I just say, their initial meeting had me laughing out loud, I just loved it! Both have pain in their past, and yet, something about them being together allows them to see happiness again, and seeing this develop was beautiful.
If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend this book! I could not put it down, and could not wait to see what happened chapter after chapter. There were quite a few twists as well that I absolutely was not expecting, and two big moments near the end...I don't want to spoil anything, but, they had my heart pounding for very different reasons.
Thank you so much to the author, Jessica Scarlett, for sending me an ARC of this novel, I so enjoyed it! All opinions expressed in this review are my own!
This book is just amazing! It is romantic, witty, heartwarming, moving, and so much more! Whenever I picked up "A Lily in Disguise", I was whisked back in time, and went on an incredible journey with this story.
This is the first book in Jessica Scarlett's "Wycliffe Family" series, and I hope there will be many more! WOW does she know how to write characters who are incredibly real, and who have so much heart you can't help but want the best for them. She truly knows how to bring the world of her story to life, and I was drawn in from the first moment to the very last.
Lily, whose name has been slandered in society, has had to pretend to be someone else for many years. She accepts the position to pose as the wealthy Mary Raynsford in order to earn enough money to travel to America to be with her (Lily's) sister. What could possibly go wrong? And, even so, what could possibly go absolutely right?
(Possible Spoilers!)
I found myself rooting for Lily and Peter from the very first moment. Their witty banter back and forth is such a joy to read, and you can feel their chemistry and pull toward one another right away. And, may I just say, their initial meeting had me laughing out loud, I just loved it! Both have pain in their past, and yet, something about them being together allows them to see happiness again, and seeing this develop was beautiful.
If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend this book! I could not put it down, and could not wait to see what happened chapter after chapter. There were quite a few twists as well that I absolutely was not expecting, and two big moments near the end...I don't want to spoil anything, but, they had my heart pounding for very different reasons.
Thank you so much to the author, Jessica Scarlett, for sending me an ARC of this novel, I so enjoyed it! All opinions expressed in this review are my own!
September 4, 2022
This was a fantastic debut book!
Lily, through circumstances and various events becomes Julia Smith when her reputation is ruined thanks to her brother. And just when her life is finally about to change for the better and make it possible for her to join her sister in America, he manages to ruin things for her again. Enter Mary, the woman who hires Julia to pose as Mary herself for the summer at the Wycliffe manor.
Now posing as Mary, she arrives and mixes with the other guests and meets the Wycliffe's. Peter and Mary meet in a completely outlandish and rather comical way, then the games begin... and what a game it is! It's only a matter of time before questions arise, and the impostor is discovered... But will Julia's lies and secrets hold up when a close friend of the real Mary shows up and decides to stay a while?
I enjoyed every moment of this book. It is wonderfully written, and a beautiful story. I did get a bit frustrated with Lily towards the end. Her issue was trust, and after learning her history and what happened with William, it's completely understandable. I'm torn between wishing Peter would have declared himself sooner and Lily would have trusted him to tell him the whole truth. But therein lies the latter part of the story. And the story was brilliant on so many levels. I loved the riddles and the twists and turns the story took. I really liked Peter but had to do a double-take when it came to William's interest. I'm not typically a fan of love triangles but this was written so good, and all was revealed well before the last page of the book, so I actually enjoyed it very much. If I had had the time I would have read this in one sitting. It was that good... Probably the best historical romance I've read all year.
A few chaste kisses with several swoony moments and excellent humor. 5 stars from me!
Lily, through circumstances and various events becomes Julia Smith when her reputation is ruined thanks to her brother. And just when her life is finally about to change for the better and make it possible for her to join her sister in America, he manages to ruin things for her again. Enter Mary, the woman who hires Julia to pose as Mary herself for the summer at the Wycliffe manor.
Now posing as Mary, she arrives and mixes with the other guests and meets the Wycliffe's. Peter and Mary meet in a completely outlandish and rather comical way, then the games begin... and what a game it is! It's only a matter of time before questions arise, and the impostor is discovered... But will Julia's lies and secrets hold up when a close friend of the real Mary shows up and decides to stay a while?
I enjoyed every moment of this book. It is wonderfully written, and a beautiful story. I did get a bit frustrated with Lily towards the end. Her issue was trust, and after learning her history and what happened with William, it's completely understandable. I'm torn between wishing Peter would have declared himself sooner and Lily would have trusted him to tell him the whole truth. But therein lies the latter part of the story. And the story was brilliant on so many levels. I loved the riddles and the twists and turns the story took. I really liked Peter but had to do a double-take when it came to William's interest. I'm not typically a fan of love triangles but this was written so good, and all was revealed well before the last page of the book, so I actually enjoyed it very much. If I had had the time I would have read this in one sitting. It was that good... Probably the best historical romance I've read all year.
A few chaste kisses with several swoony moments and excellent humor. 5 stars from me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2022
4.5 ⭐
I actually liked this quite a lot. I spent a little too much time getting into it, but once I did, I didn't stop. It was a very intriguing storyline, although I do wish that it did go more into details surrounding her identity and such.
I'm not the biggest fan of first person when it comes to regency books. I would've loved to see Peter's POV throughout the book, but in the same light I'm glad we only had Lily's because lbr Peter was a massive simp and I appreciate that being hidden until later on.
I appreciate the slow burn of their relationship but also how real it got in places. Their first meet vs. their last KILLED me, I was giggling.
I also loved how certain plot points made themselves known at the right time in the story, instead of pushing so much of it until the last 15 percent of the book.
I love Matthew (I've been saying that a lot lately, whoops)
Anyway, I think it was a good story, minus some plot points that were added in. But I still enjoyed it and it became a fast read once I got into it.
I actually liked this quite a lot. I spent a little too much time getting into it, but once I did, I didn't stop. It was a very intriguing storyline, although I do wish that it did go more into details surrounding her identity and such.
I'm not the biggest fan of first person when it comes to regency books. I would've loved to see Peter's POV throughout the book, but in the same light I'm glad we only had Lily's because lbr Peter was a massive simp and I appreciate that being hidden until later on.
I appreciate the slow burn of their relationship but also how real it got in places. Their first meet vs. their last KILLED me, I was giggling.
I also loved how certain plot points made themselves known at the right time in the story, instead of pushing so much of it until the last 15 percent of the book.
I love Matthew (I've been saying that a lot lately, whoops)
Anyway, I think it was a good story, minus some plot points that were added in. But I still enjoyed it and it became a fast read once I got into it.
July 2, 2025
Captivating, utterly captivating. I loved this book! The writing has such a flow to it, I was absolutely swept away. The banter is excellent, witty and fun. The characters have depth and great development. The plot has enough action, danger, and intrigue to keep it thoroughly engaging. The romance borders on insta-love, at least on the male side, and yet it’s well done and totally works with the writing style.
I admit, there are some grammatical errors throughout, and if you let yourself think about it, there are some parts that are rather unrealistic… But it doesn’t even matter. This book has made my favorites list and I can’t wait to read more of the series. Just excellent!
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex. There is some violence, but it’s not excessive. The romance is limited to a couple chaste kisses. There are some scripture references, but I wouldn’t say there’s a message of faith or God.
Trigger warning:
There is an abusive family member (physical and emotional). The FMC gets attacked in an attempted kidnapping.
This is 1st person, single POV
I admit, there are some grammatical errors throughout, and if you let yourself think about it, there are some parts that are rather unrealistic… But it doesn’t even matter. This book has made my favorites list and I can’t wait to read more of the series. Just excellent!
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex. There is some violence, but it’s not excessive. The romance is limited to a couple chaste kisses. There are some scripture references, but I wouldn’t say there’s a message of faith or God.
Trigger warning:
There is an abusive family member (physical and emotional). The FMC gets attacked in an attempted kidnapping.
This is 1st person, single POV
June 7, 2023
buddy read with bean ♡
bean likened the plot to ella enchanted and i agree! if cinderella had to pretend for two months and almost went mad doing it. start to finish, this was just peter being down real bad and lily (mary) making some dumb decisions and being pushed to the brink. the nonstop flirting and teasing was fun, the long fight scene in the last quarter!! tension >>
this doesn't beat a lady on the chase for me, but i still really liked it. it was softer and lighter but held the same sentiment level. also, it shows how jessica scarlett got only better with time.
i will have to miss out on book 2 since it's on the slimey fellow sir william. he was pathetic, really. i was wishing him jail the min he stepped on page but the whole guilt trip into love scenario was just awful.. i can't imagine what eliza sees in him. i know mrs scarlett redeemed him somehow in his book but im just not interested. also, the tropes aren't my fave either so
bean likened the plot to ella enchanted and i agree! if cinderella had to pretend for two months and almost went mad doing it. start to finish, this was just peter being down real bad and lily (mary) making some dumb decisions and being pushed to the brink. the nonstop flirting and teasing was fun, the long fight scene in the last quarter!! tension >>
this doesn't beat a lady on the chase for me, but i still really liked it. it was softer and lighter but held the same sentiment level. also, it shows how jessica scarlett got only better with time.
i will have to miss out on book 2 since it's on the slimey fellow sir william. he was pathetic, really. i was wishing him jail the min he stepped on page but the whole guilt trip into love scenario was just awful.. i can't imagine what eliza sees in him. i know mrs scarlett redeemed him somehow in his book but im just not interested. also, the tropes aren't my fave either so
September 13, 2022
When we picked this book for my book club I didn’t know what I was getting myself into—and I was very pleasantly surprised! Honestly, I agreed without reading the blurb, so when I started I didn’t know there would be all these false identities and bits of mystery woven in with so much banter and fun. It is fantastic.
Things I Loved:
-“So you’re my wife.”
-The Sneeze
-Clingy
-His So Very Handsomness
-“If only Julia were here…”
-Riddles
-“Any similarities between my experience and the fairytale are purely coincidental.”
-“I never claimed otherwise.”
-Dancing in the rain 😍
-Peter. I just love Peter.
-Matthew and all his quirkiness
-A perfect HEA ♥️
This was just such a great read. I laughed, I cried, I basically squealed when I connected the dots, and I love how it all worked out.
This was my first read by Jessica Scarlett and it definitely will not be my last. I’m already figuring out when I can read the rest of this series, I can’t wait!
Things I Loved:
-“So you’re my wife.”
-The Sneeze
-Clingy
-His So Very Handsomness
-“If only Julia were here…”
-Riddles
-“Any similarities between my experience and the fairytale are purely coincidental.”
-“I never claimed otherwise.”
-Dancing in the rain 😍
-Peter. I just love Peter.
-Matthew and all his quirkiness
-A perfect HEA ♥️
This was just such a great read. I laughed, I cried, I basically squealed when I connected the dots, and I love how it all worked out.
This was my first read by Jessica Scarlett and it definitely will not be my last. I’m already figuring out when I can read the rest of this series, I can’t wait!
July 7, 2020
I had the opportunity to read an earlier draft of this novel, and I couldn’t put the book down. It was a definite binge read for me. The clever dialogue. The humor. The romantic tension. The lovely descriptions. But the most compelling aspect of story to me is always the characters.
Sometimes in the romance genre, I feel like protagonists are too perfect, the love interests are too bland, and/or the antagonists too evil. But Scarlett really delivers with flawed, interesting characters I cared about, and ultimately, that’s what kept me turning pages—the well-rounded characters with mysterious backstories. I adored Peter and Lily. :)
This was my second read through, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first time. Such a fun, addictive, entertaining read from a talented debut author. I’ll definitely be picking up the next book in this series!
Sometimes in the romance genre, I feel like protagonists are too perfect, the love interests are too bland, and/or the antagonists too evil. But Scarlett really delivers with flawed, interesting characters I cared about, and ultimately, that’s what kept me turning pages—the well-rounded characters with mysterious backstories. I adored Peter and Lily. :)
This was my second read through, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first time. Such a fun, addictive, entertaining read from a talented debut author. I’ll definitely be picking up the next book in this series!
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