Dear Clara

by Shelly E. Powell

He thinks she is a rare beauty. She knows he is charming on paper. Both hope for romance, but when letters are no longer enough, Clara must face the truth and decide whether to let go of pride or protect her heart.

For the first time in her life, Clara Everton has done something truly improper. She has written to a gentleman she hardly knows, simply to avoid an unwanted marriage proposal and perhaps to prove to herself that her first London season was not such a disappointment after all. As one letter grows into many and her feelings for James Thayne deepen, Clara begins to wonder whether a letter is as innocent a thing as she once thought. Meeting Mr. Thayne in person shakes her hopes, and she must reconcile herself to the unexpected truth. Yet, as circumstances continue to bring them together, Clara can't help but question whether opening her heart to Mr. Thayne is riskier than protecting it.

Genres: Romance, Regency, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Regency Romance

282 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2021

About the author

As soon as Shelly Powell was old enough to write, she was crafting stories to share with family and friends. Her earliest works featured princesses and mermaids, which she willingly portrayed on the makeshift stages of home and school. Although her interests have expanded since then, she still finds writing to be a thrilling process and a unique way to connect with others. Shelly loves a happy ending but also believes in happy beginnings. She hopes to write many stories in the years to come. Shelly enjoys running, yoga, drawing, and spending time with her sweet husband and amazing kids. Stay tuned because she has more projects in the works…

You can connect with Shelly on Facebook or Instagram @shellypowellauthor.

Join her newsletter on her website or find her on Bookbub to get the latest book news--
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Reviews

[Kremena Koleva · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dear Clara се оказа много истинска история. Реалистично описание на чувствата, мислите и потребностите, скрити зад написването на едно писмо. На трепета и несигурността, спохождащи очаквания отговор. И на последиците от кореспонденцията. Клара Евъртън има няколко определения какво са писмата:
Отговорност. Надежда. Доверие. Закачливост. Потребност. Риск. Опасност.
Съгласна съм с всичките.
Shelly E. Powell рисува различните черти от човешкия характер.
Несигурността, която осуетява добрите намерения. Особено, когато липсва стимул за следващите стъпки.
Добродушието, което рано или късно получава урок.
Сърдечността , от която винаги някой тарикат се възползва.
Алчността, интересите и жестокостта, напъхани в лустросаната обвивка на общественото положение.
Какви недоразумения могат да се появят след написването на едно писмо? Колко хора са в състояние да се оплетат около него? Особено ако случайно обектът на кореспонденцията е различен от лицето, което получава и което оттоваря на писмата. Не всичко в това недоразумение е забавно. Има неочаквани отражения и непредизвикани страсти. Обърквания и пречки.
Забавните части ме разсмиваха . Напрегнатите моменти свиваха сърцето ми. Чистите истини, изказани от авторката, направо ме шокираха с прозрението си.
В слушалките ми звучеше Dangerous на David Garret & Royal Philharmonic Orchestra & Franck Van Der Heijden , почивния следобед се разстилаше слънчев и мързелив, а аз тръпнех заради перипетиите на няколко писма.

* " Вярвам, че хората стават истински приятели, когато споделят своите несъвършенства един с друг. Как иначе да разберат дали са обичани и приети такива, каквито са? "
* " Писмото е нещо неразбрано, твърди тя, внимателно изработено творение, като стихотворение или рисунка. "
* " Веднъж баща й й казал, че животът зависи от най-неочакваните моменти. "
* " " Никой не може да те направи щастлив. Трябва да избереш щастието. Никога не е лесно, но най-добре го намираш, когато решиш да живееш за някой друг. Целият лукс на света не означава нищо, ако не обичаш хората, с които си“.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a charming story!

Sometimes a debut novel is a little rough, as it takes a few stories to find a groove, but that was definitely not the case with this charming book! Powell captures the spirit of the Regency time, or how I like to imagine it, with her lively characters, dreadful rakes, cases of mistaken identity, and clandestine romances. I was held captive by these pages and couldn't wait for all the pieces to fall into place.

Clara is slightly persnickety in her quest to find love and won't settle for just anyone, yet I found myself identifying with her sweet and caring personality. I love how she fell into friendships and found herself in interesting situations, which she handled with grace. Mr. Thayne is an appealing character, with his determination and awkwardness. The combination of the whole cast of characters was delightful.

There are many intricate threads holding this story together and each tangent was entertaining in their own rights. It was fun to tie things together as the plot progressed and while the events weren't necessarily action-packed, the gentle and steady nature was very engaging.

Content: mild romance (some vague innuendo, kissing)

*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*

[Meredith (Austenesque Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secret Letters Lead to More than One Mix-Up!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Regency Romance

THE PREMISE: Clara Everton receives a letter from an undistinguishable admirer she met during her first London season, and daringly decides to continue the exchange. An enchanting friendship begins to form and hearts become more engaged, but when Clara and her correspondent finally meet again in person painful revelations are made…

MY THOUGHTS:

A Regency romance that centers around exchanging letters is definitely my cup of tea! It is a most improper thing for this pair to do when they are not engaged to each other, but that of course just added to the fun and romance of it all! I loved the reasons why James Thayne was so bold as to write Clara and take the risk of pursuing what he wants. In addition, I loved Clara’s situation of having a precarious future full of unknowns, yet still hoping to marry for love. And I loved how Ms. Powell took this innocent exchange of letters and blossoming friendship and completely turned it all on its ear when you least expected it.

I completely adored Clara and James in this story! Clara is gentle, playful, trusting, and a sincere friend. And James is honorable, earnest, cautious, and incredibly sweet with children. Both are incurable romantics. I very much enjoyed witnessing the evolution of Clara’s and James’s relationship with each other. Their letters were so endearing, and it was lovely to see the leisurely progression of their attachment and feelings. Not only did I enjoy their secretive and frank letters to each other, I also enjoyed witnessing each one of their in-person exchanges as well. These encounters were at times incredibly awkward and painful, and at other times enchantingly sweet and heartwarming.

Along with Clara and James, readers are introduced to several other unmarried men and women, a few of Clara’s relations, and several guests at a holiday house party. These characters were well-drawn and intriguing, and I enjoyed witnessing their interactions with Clara and James. Some of these characters are given even more page time with some secondary storylines and conflicts of their own. While I appreciated the inclusion of these interesting additional subplots, it did sometimes feel like they were interjected a little disjointedly and transiently – sometimes feeling little abrupt and underdeveloped. However, the main storyline arc of Dear Clara progresses smoothly and seamlessly.

What a charming debut for Shelly E. Powell!! Dear Clara is a diverting and engaging story about taking risks and learning to open your heart again. Regency romance fans who love stories that feature letters, house parties, elopements, and a most captivating couple will find plenty to delight in with this tale!

Austenesque Reviews

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely fabulous debut novel! This book completely took me by surprise. I was totally hooked by chapter 4 and stayed up way past my bedtime because could not put it down!

I particularly enjoyed the clever plot twists and turns - my jaw literally dropped more than once! Most of the book is written from the POV of the two main characters, but there were occasional chapters from the POV of a side character and I felt like it added extra depth to the story. The romance was very sweet and definitely swoony and I felt invested in the main characters relationship even when they were corresponding through letters for the first part of the book.

5 stars for this debut novel I cannot wait to see what this author writes next because whatever it is, I will be reading it!

I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.

[Ashley Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was absolutely captivated by this book! I loved this story and could not put it down! The writing style and characters completely transport the reader to the Regency era. As for the plot l, I was truly turning the pages, hanging on over word. It isn’t often that you find a Regency romance that has plot twists that you never see coming! I was completely invested in these characters and their story! There are several character points of views that are represented throughout the story, however I felt that they added depth and understanding of the characters. This story kept me invested until the final chapter and I absolutely loved the journey and conclusion! I will definitely be adding this author to my reading list and think this was a fabulous debut novel!!!

[Samantha Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great wonderfully delightful book! Love letters, mistaken identities and a hero willing to set aside his pride and do whatever it takes to win the heart of the woman he loves. It’s been a long while since I read a book that I enjoyed to this level. A regency romance novel with plot twists that don’t involve some sinister character, spy plot or the overly done kidnapping... yes, please!

I was so sad to see this author doesn’t have any other published works yet. I can’t wait to read more!!!

[Carole (in Canada) · Rating 3 out of 5]

"A letter is a dangerous thing, Clara thought, alive with words, yet deceptively still, a sentiment made solid, yet helplessly bare." (quote from the book)

This is a sweet debut novel. The opening Prologue was beautifully written and the letters that are sprinkled throughout between Clara and 'a man she could barely recall' were charming. I just wish there were more of them.

"She could write her heart on that paper and offer it to him, a feat both exhilarating and liberating, but committing her heart to paper would do nothing to protect it." (quote from the book)

I wanted to love this story, but for me, I felt it lost its way as it meandered around several threads, thereby losing my attention. I did finish it, but unfortunately, I did a bit of skimming to get there.

I can well imagine the courage it takes to release your first novel out into the world. So please, look at all the other reviews from people who have loved it.

[Robyn Echols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful Romance

I enjoyed this romance with its misunderstandings and mysteries. Good characters, each with their motives. A sweet happily ever after ending in more ways than one.

[Rachel (rachelee.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I loved:
- a sweet romance, developed through the exchange of love letters.
- I enjoyed watching Clara navigating her way in a unique society, finding true friends and true love.
- Mr Thayne, and his bold risk to write a letter to a woman! Then his determination to win her heart again later, endeared him all the more.

What I didn't like:
- a slow, and steady story unfolded. While it kept me entertained, I was not obsessively reading this story.
- the occasional side chapters from the side characters POV. It confused me, and distracted me from the sweetness of Clara and James growing relationship.

⭐⭐⭐💫
Romance: kisses

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dear Clara
by: Shelly Powell
@shellypowellauthor

••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"All the luxury in the world means nothing if you don't love the people you are with."

~He thinks she is a rare beauty. She knows he is charming on paper. Both hope for romance, but when letters are no longer enough, Clara must face the truth and decide whether to let go of pride or protect her heart...

“A letter is a dangerous thing, Clara thought, alive with words, yet deceptively still, a sentiment made solid, yet helplessly bare.”

-Dear Clara, is a delightful heartwarming clean regency romance story with lively characters, dreadful rakes, cases of mistaken identity, the right touch of suspense, and such swoony moments. It’s a story that took me by surprise in the best ways with the clever plot twists and turns, unexpected but heartwarming ending, and the beauty/depth with secret love letters! ••This quick but heartwarming read was exactly what my heart needed with lots of feelings with the world spinning with heartache and tears! Dear themes of love, friendship, trust, forgiveness, family, home, and hope shine bright within. This is a dear story worth the read!📚🙌🏻🩷

“My heart is yours.”

•Content: loss/geief, death of loved ones in past, gambling/rakish behavior of side characters a case of mistaken identity, sick loved ones, stable accident, mild moments of peril/danger, no language, mild romance (some vague innuendo, kissing.

“It was a place that had proven itself against many storms. Weathered but firm, it was the one place where she felt completely safe. Though nothing to boast of to the highest of gentry, it was home.”

#dearclara

“You have to choose happiness. It’s never easy, but you best find it when you choose to live for someone else.”

#shellypowellauthor

“I am not even sure how you do it, but the sun shines brighter. Because of your letters.”

#quickbutdearstory

I simply adore you.”

#allaboutthebestreads

“Yes, a letter is a dangerous thing.”

[Tina]

Review on February 11th.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was my first one by this author, and it was intriguing. There were twists that I wasn’t expecting, so that made it even better.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written. Depth. Unique plot. Will read again.

[Lindy Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautiful. The letters are divine, the characters have real flaws, and it doesn't all work out like I would've expected. I'll definitely be looking forward to more from this author!

[The Swoony Awards]

Nominated for a 2021 Swoony Award, to vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67

[Clean Romance]

Praise from the Clean Romance Team:

"Sweet, unique, and absolutely wonderful!”

"I was held captive by these pages and couldn’t wait for all the pieces to fall into place.”

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is definitely a five-star read! I was recommended this book by a friend who raved about how amazing it was, so I knew I needed to check it out and my only regret is that I didn't read it sooner. This will be one book I reread many times over and over. SO good!
The premise of the book was cute with this idea of secret love letters. The beginning started out as a good read, but there is a part in the book, that I guess is best labeled a twist, and my jaw literally dropped. From that point on I could not put this book down and I loved so much how unpredictable and wonderful this story was. The multiple POVs and the way the author crafted her story so well kept the plot from becoming predictable even when I thought I was figuring things out. Instead, this was a refreshing and delightful romance with plenty of swoon and unexpected moments that made me smile.
I highly recommend this book! I truly loved it and look forward to reading more by this author.

[Tayo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full spoilers.

The solid first half of this book was very slow and the pace wasn't great. But it was nice for developing a believe relationship between Clara and James that was shippable. I was surprised at how many different POVs there were in this book but I truly don't feel like every one was necessary.

Overall I enjoyed Clara and I enjoyed James and their relationship and the bones of that was really good. This book could definitely have lost about 20% though as some things seemed utterly superfluous.

I must say this book had the biggest plot twist that I had no clue was coming which was delightful - James wrote to Clara thinking she was someone else. And this confusion sets up the momentum for the second half of the book which was much more enjoyable.

I didn't enjoy Owen Shaw's POV at all and I felt that his story line was very much unresolved - did he get to keep his inheritance??

[Tammy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not very well written. An excess of unnecessary subplots, details, and characters. Characterization is also inconsistent. On one page a character would be written as snide and conniving and then with no explanation as to why, she’s suddenly the main characters best friend? Character motivations are unconvincing as well. Plus half of the characters are exceedingly fickle. All that combined with some awkward dialogue (please never make a character say “hahahaha” again) make for a very so so book.

[Tisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Powell captures the spirit of the Regency era along with typical, dreadful rakes, mistaken identity, and clandestine romances. I was captivated by the two main characters of this unique story plot. I couldn't wait for all the pieces to fall into place & the two characters realize their friendship did indeed turn into love for each other.

Clara is bit persnickety on her path to find love. She is determined not to settle for just any rake from the ton, regardless to title or looks. Understand though Clara is kind, charming sweet & innocent to what the world has to offer when it comes to romance & love. Which is why it was intriguing to follow the friendship that was built by correspondence with Mr. James Thayne.

James Thayne though he was in love with one woman to realize that he had been writing to the wrong girl. Clara Everton didn't want an arrange marriage. Even her family new it would be difficult to find someone interested in their plain daughter. She was smart intelligent & not the typical beauty to the gentlemen at the ton.

James Thayne shy, awkward,& finds Clara a rare beauty by correspondence. What he doesn't realize is he has set himself up to believe he is speaking with another young lady from the ton. Once coming to the ball James is set to meet & talk to the woman he believes he is in love with. To find out that he has opened his heart & thoughts to a completely different woman from the ton. What an embarrassing moment for Mr. Thayne's. Especially when Clara overhears James talking to his friend & Clara's uncle that it was Lady Hamilton he believed was Lady Clara. Clara leaves the ball with her heart broken after she has finally believed she thought she found the man she was to spend the rest of her life with. What is worse is when James comes the very next day to propose out of obligation. Though is grateful when Clara declines.

Now Clara Everton must face the truth and decide whether to let go of pride or protect her heart. In the mean time another suitor pretends to be interested in Clara who is a distant relation to her to get his hands on her inheritance. What a coo that would be for him once her Uncle passes he would get his estate & her inheritance to save his own ass from destroying his own estate & funds.
While another rake is threatening both James & Clara by spreading gossip that he is engaged to Clara & James should stay away.

During all this excitement & realizing the true character of Lady Hamilton, Mr. James Thayne finally realizes that he is in love with Clara. And is now determined to prove to her that she in fact is the woman of his dreams. & wants to make Clara his wife.

Will these two see eye to eye? Can Clara forgive Mr. Thayne for hurting her so deeply at the ball. Can she let go of her pride to attempt to let love trickle in her heart again for the man that originally rejected her?
Read their story of their romance along with the combination of the whole cast of characters in this debut novel by Powell.

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet romance from a debut author

It is hard to know what to expect from debut authors. And while I love to support their works, I am often a little nervous picking up their books. I don't like the thought of offending one by my review if I didn't care for it. After all, it takes a tremendous amount of courage to put yourself out there, sharing your heart in a book. Not to mention the effort involved!

I hesitated when Shelly E. Powell asked if I would read and review her debut novel, especially seeing it was a Regency romance. Not that I have anything against them - I just prefer stories that are romances with something more. Mystery, intrigue, humor. And with so many of them out there, they can sometimes feel a little trite or unoriginal.

I was pleasantly surprised upon reading Dear Clara. While there were definitely "standard" elements from this genre - the balls, the house parties, the rakes - the approach was well done. I enjoyed the innocence of the correspondence. It was fun to think of a time when receiving a letter from a gentleman was the same as being an engagement - or a scandal!

Clara was sweet and very innocent. Naive, even. She had been fairly protected throughout her life, though she did know grief at the death of her mother. She was unsure of herself and afraid of being hurt, yet she showed surprising courage at times.

I enjoyed the aspect of her receiving letters from not just one potential suitor. While enough hints were dropped along the way it was not a surprise how the various subplots would turn out, though one such result was unexpected.

The writing was good with some lovely descriptions and pleasant turns of phrases. The characters were also well developed. The house party was fun to read about with the ice-skating perhaps being my favorite part.

If you enjoy Regency romance with a gentle heroine and some surprises along the way, introduce yourself to Shelly E. Powell and read Dear Clara.

Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Sabrina Trejo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great book for debut author! I really enjoyed Clara and James’ story and all the twists and turns this story takes. Several times I was genuinely surprised by what happened and enjoyed the way things played out.
The exchange of letters was so sweet and I thought it was a clever new take on a regency romance. In fact my favorite parts of this story are when the letters are included and you get a glimpse into the beautiful, yet tumultuous, love story.
The only reason why I didn’t do five stars is because sometimes I felt like there was too much going on. You mainly have James and Clara’s point of view throughout the book, but you also get to experience other character’s stories. In total there are at least six different points of view, and while it was interesting to see other’s perspectives, sometimes it just felt like too much. In a way I felt like it took away from James and Clara because you’re learning about the other character’s lives and the consequences of their choices. Even so, I did like this book and would easily and gladly recommend this book.
Overall I did enjoy this book and I cannot wait to see what else Shelly will write.

[Rorie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story started out leaving me guessing, and kept me guessing right up to the very end. This was really three smaller stories wrapped up in one, which at times was a bit much. Most of it was focused on Clara and Mr. Thane, and for the most part, I liked both of them, with one minor exception. They were absolutely horrible at communicating with each other. They could have cleared up so many misunderstandings if they had just taken the time to actually talk to each other. I did find their initial predicament somewhat amusing, although I guarantee I wouldn't have if it happened to me.

The other two side stories with Francis and Mr. Shaw did end up playing a part in the end, but I'm not convinced they were really necessary. Well, Mr Shaw's probably was, but the story still would have worked well without spending as much time on Francis.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved, loved, loved this book! It could be that I was just starving for a good book, but this one had a lot of elements that really stood out.

First it's sweet, clean, and wholesome.

Second I liked how the story was told through multiple characters' perspectives. It made the beginning less predictable. Usually when you read a romance the two main characters are introduced right near the start, and it's just a matter of seeing how they make it together. In this book I was several chapters in before I was confident in who the hero would be.

Third I found the story to be compelling enough to urge me to take an easy day reading. It was also on my mind as I was falling asleep.

I was able to guess at some of the final events, but it was still enjoyable.

My biggest regret is leaving this book in my tbr pile for so long!

[Whitney Hurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I have been meaning to read this book for some time and it just took me a while to finally get to it, but boy am I sure glad that I did. Shelley Powell absolutely captured me with her storytelling in this fantastic read.

She masterfully did multiple POVs for several characters and I loved it!

Clara had a heart of gold and though sometimes her pride got in her way she truly kept me reading. And James, where do I start. I absolutely loved him, flaws and all. Not to mention an amazing array of other characters to boot. And a delightful mystery that keeps you guessing how everything will possibly work out in the end. (For anyone wondering, things do work out in the end ;)

Truly if you have not read Dear Clara it is an absolute treat and I highly recommend it. Especially, anyone who loves stories with secret letters. Because as Clara finds out..."A letter is a dangerous thing..."

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was adorable and oh how I wish for such a relationship. Clara and James were so sweet and I loved how James called her any version of endearment with her name, like “Dear Clara!” I had my harsh feelings towards James at the beginning when he was being an utter dolt, but then I felt the same towards Clara at times. Sometimes it did get confusing with the different perspectives it switched to, but in the end it worked out well. I loved that it all started with letters. I fell quickly for James in each darling letter he wrote to Clara. I was also surprised at how long the book was. As the letters progressed, I had to continue to check my progress, thinking I was almost done! Boy, was I wrong! There was so much after that and I was grateful there was! It was such a sweet Christmastime story.

[Sandralena Hanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this regency romance! Clara is at the end of the London season. When only one man catches her eye, she is flattered when he wants to write to her. But when a letter comes, it's from someone she hardly remembers meeting.

Does she risk her heart and reputation writing back? After all, he only wants a chance to get to know her better.

"A letter is a dangerous thing, alive with words, yet deceptively still, a sentiment made solid, yet helplessly bare."

Clara is a heroine with depth to her soul. She doesn't let the conventions get in the way of following her heart.

I love getting to know her and her suitor through letters. A surprising revelation gives the story a page-turning twist. Not everyone is as they seem. I highly recommend this book.

[Susanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

What I liked: James and Clara's characters and personalities. The use of letters and the benefits and complexity that arises from that.

What I struggled with: There were too many voices. I don't mind authors using multiple POVs to bounce between main characters, but there were no less than six people who gained that honor in this novel and it was not pleasant as a reader.

In addition, there were several characters who were more confusing than helpful. Do we hate this person, do we like this person? I don't mind intrigue and suspense, but I felt pulled back and forth to an unnecessary extent.

[syaf ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

it was a shocked to me that Thayne wrote all those letters to a wrong person all along. you see here, i was really anticipated for both of them to meet after they developed their feelings for each other but damn that hurt freaking bad. the disappointment, confusion and disbelief from him when he knew he mistook clara for elizabeth.. he was so wrong for that but that was what made the story even better i guess. besides, i got to give credit to thayne for realising it was clara who he knew and loved from the letters they had exchanged and never stopped chasing for her forgiveness and heart. Not only he captured clara’s heart but also mine for so many times.

AND THE FACT THAT HE STILL WRITES LOVE LETTERS AFTER THEIR MARRIAGE IS JUSTTT SOOO 💓💓💓💓

[PAMpublish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful story in this sweet and clean Regency romance with a lovely cover which involves Clara's first London season that she thought was a flop until she received a letter upon returning home from an admirer. Following an endearing correspondence between the two, she is eager to meet him. However, due to a mix-up, he thought he had his heart set upon another. Many mix-ups followed by a roller coast of events, including friends and others with devious intentions, keeps one mesmerized right up to a surprising conclusion. Recommended to all those who seek an enjoyable Regency romance.