Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort, hasn’t seen Lady Harriet Fitzroy since her serious riding accident. She has grown into a kind, spirited woman, whose sinful smile plays havoc with his jaded emotions! Hattie’s family disapprove of Jasper’s rakish past, but when she risks her reputation to help him, the least he can do is pull her from the wallflower chairs and out of the shadows…
From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past.
Society''s Most Scandalous
Book 1: How to Woo a Wallflower by Virginia Heath Book 2: How to Cheat the Marriage Mart by Millie Adams Book 3: How to Survive a Scandal by Christine Merrill
When Virginia Heath was a little girl it took her ages to fall asleep, so she made up stories in her head to help pass the time while she was staring at the ceiling. As she got older, the stories became more complicated, sometimes taking weeks to get to the happy ending. Then one day, she decided to embrace the insomnia and start writing them down. Twenty books and two Romantic Novel of the Year Award nominations later, and it still takes her forever to fall asleep.
Her new Regency Romcom for St Martin's Press ~ Never Fall For Your Fiancée ~ is on sale November 9, 2021
If you want to find out more check out virginiaheathromance.com or follow her on Facebook @VirginiaHeathAuthor
Read: 1/11/24 3.5 stars! This was a cute story! VH is new author to me so I had no expectations and I was able to just enjoy the story. I really like how the couple become friends first before romantic feelings developed. Both had such a prevalence and strength about them that made them perfect together. The two children were the sweet spot in this story.
I did think the ending was a bit rushed and I wish there was an epilogue.
So, this was not some great hr but it was fun and didn't take itself too seriously. I would be happy to try more of her books.
How to Woo a Wallflower is a charming and romantic friends-to-lovers historical romance and another fabulous read by Virginia Heath. The story follows Lady Harriet Fitzroy and Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort, friends who haven’t seen each other in years before Harriet was seriously injured in a riding accident. Jasper is a rake with a scandalous reputation and quite the opposite of Harriet, who is more of a wallflower. However, neither can deny the chemistry and growing feelings between them.
Harriet and Jasper are dynamic protagonists, and their characters are fleshed out well. Hattie is disabled. She did not recover fully from a horse riding accident, and she now walks with a limp. Though beautiful, kind, and intelligent, Hattie is judged because of her disability and is either looked down upon, coddled, or used by family and peers. However, Hattie doesn’t let this define her. She becomes an advocate for others with disadvantages and often helps the doctor who helped her recover. This work gives Hattie purpose and is so meaningful to her, which Jasper quickly realizes.
Jasper is a scandalous rake who owns an even more scandalous club, and though he is the son of a Duke, he, like Hattie, is very much judged. It doesn’t matter that he saved his family from financial ruin. His role as club owner brings derision with it. Like Hattie, he doesn’t let others’ opinions define him, though he does struggle to shake his poor reputation.
Jasper and Hattie have such a wonderful romance filled with fun banter, great chemistry, and a strong connection. The couple begins as friends, and their relationship develops into something more, which I loved. Friends-to-lovers is a favorite trope of mine, and Heath creates a romantic relationship that’s built on respect, admiration, trust, and a ton of sexual tension! Jasper is one of the few people in Hattie’s life that sees past her disability and doesn’t treat her like she’s incapable. And Hattie sees how hard Jasper is trying to make up for mistakes in his past. They make such a fantastic couple, even though many obstacles stand in their way. I like how they both learn from each other and gain surety and confidence because of their bond.
The secondary characters are also great, and I particularly enjoyed the Wallflowers of 1813 Club. They are fun and interesting, and I’m hoping they have roles in future books in the series. Though I didn’t love him, Hattie’s brother is another important character. He is a major obstacle in Hattie and Jasper’s relationship, and he continually warns Jasper away from Hattie. His coddling, unneeded protection, and refusal to see past Hattie’s disability parallel society’s perceptions. However, unlike society, his actions are based on love.
I really enjoyed How to Woo a Wallflower, which probably comes as no surprise considering how much I usually adore books by Virginia Heath. It’s an entertaining, heart-warming, romantic, and thought-provoking historical romance and one I’d highly recommend. It’s also a great start to Heath’s new Society’s Most Scandalous series, and I look forward to reading the next book.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Harlequin Historical for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Finally making her debut after a long recovery from a horse-riding accident, Hattie is relegated to the wallflower chairs - but at least her brother's rakish best friend, Jasper, is there to keep her company.
This might have been the oldest remnant on my NetGalley shelf that I've yet swept off - while I like this genre and this author, I never seemed to get into the mood for it. I had the idea that this would be a straightforward Regency romance, and the book did not exceed my expectations.
It was a quick, charming read about a pair of characters that I liked as a couple. When an orphaned child, the daughter of a friend, falls into Jasper's lap, Hattie tries to help him be a better father, but as he has a scandalous reputation they cannot associate very openly. I liked how Jasper saw Hattie as the strong, capable person she was when everyone else seemed to write her off due to her disability. I also liked how Hattie's life-altering accident and long recovery was presented in a realistic and unsentimental light.
However, I did feel like the book used a lot of Regency romance tropes, and not always to the best effect - a hero who owns a gentlemen's club, an unexpected child, and the brother's best friend, for example. While these elements are all woven into the hero's background in a convincing manner, I just thought there was too much going on. With so many stock elements thrown together, while the book is well-written and enjoyable, it simply does not have staying power after I've turned the last page.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Marvellous story of friends to lovers, best friends sister and rake trying to better his ways. Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort is in trouble in so many ways, one being he has feelings for the woman his best friend has threatened death if he comes near. Lady Harriet Fitzroy has had her troubles too, so has decided to take charge of her life and live it to the fullest, if only her overprotective brother would let her. Loved these characters and their journey. Very romantic. Loved it!!
4.25 Stars Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort hasn’t seen Lady Harriet Fitzroy since her serious riding accident. She has grown into a kind, spirited woman, whose sinful smile plays havoc with his jaded emotions! Hattie’s family disapprove of Jasper’s rakish past, but when she risks her reputation to help him the least he can do is pull her from the wallflower chairs and out of the shadows. A well written engrossing read. I loved both Jasper & Hattie, he’s the son of an impoverished Duke who's forged his own way by opening & running a scandalous club, which has been highly successful. She’s a twin who almost died after a riding accident but grit, determination, a skilful doctor & supportive family have made her into a strong amazing woman. I loved how the pair were strongly attracted to each other in this slow burn romance, the chemistry between them just grew & grew. I’ll never think of staircases in the same way again!! Izzy was a delight & I loved Jim & how he opened up, eventually & would have loved an epilogue which featured his recovery My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
4.5 stars. To Woo a Wallfower is the first book of the new Society’s Most Scandalous series from Virginia Heath. The intrepid heroine, Lady Harriet Fitzroy, suffered a devastating leg injury after a riding accident. She has rejoined society after learning to walk again. Being the daughter of a duke doesn’t save her from having to sit with the wallflowers due to her severe limp. When she encounters her brother’s friend Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort, they find common ground for a friendship. Jasper has a wild reputation, but all is not as it seems. This was a sweet story of two people helping each other to find their way in the world and falling in love in the process. They both discovered the courage to stand up to family and society. The answers did not come easily, but Hattie and Jasper found support with each other to deal with their challenges. The romance developed slowly and felt genuine. To Woo a Wallflower is an excellent example of the friends-to-lovers trope and a worthy read. ARC provided by the author.
I wanted to review this because I’ve never read a harlequin. I know. All the regency romance and not one harlequin. But I liked this author’s Merriwell sisters series, so I figured this was a safe bet.
Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort, hasn’t seen Lady Harriet Fitzroy, his best friend’s sister, since before her life-changing riding accident. Hattie is now disabled and walks with pain and with a limp. Most people disapprove of Jasper’s scandalous past and his Reprobate’s Club, even though he’s clawed his way out of his family’s debt with his business. He’s recently found himself the guardian of his former mistress’s child.
Hattie is direct but rambles when she’s nervous and knows she has a life to live after her accident, but her justifiable feelings of exclusion were well represented. She’s a fully fledged character. Jasper is struggling between his old ways and his new path and how people view him. He’s not as well developed but that’s only by comparison to Hattie.
It’s nice seeing disability rep in a historical, especially with a female character. It’s usually the male MC who’s injured in a war and now disabled. Hattie used humor to deflect pity and is honest about her good and bad moments.
The language is not accurate and the period’s social setting is not any better. The pacing was a little slow, even for a slow burn. There’s a lot of telling in certain sections—including a supposedly romantic letter at the end that we never see—and the misunderstanding too drawn out for two people who had talked out everything else so well.
How to woo a wallflower is the latest Mills and Boon book by the prolific Virginia Heath. It's the first in a trilogy (by different authors) and it sets the scene nicely. I look forward to reading the other stories on the back of this one.
I particularly liked that the heroine, Hattie, is disabled, having not recovered properly from a broken leg. She is not magically cured as so often happens in fiction, and we never think she is going to be. Instead, she learns to live with her new normal and comes to realise it doesn't define her. While some people see her as damaged, those who count do not. The disability and the discrimination it caused were very real.
Hattie's disability also allowed us a glimpse at High Society and its underdogs. We saw the Earl of Boredom, who wants her money and connections and is willing to accept her disability to get them, and who clearly feels he is doing her a favour by offering her marriage. We also meet the wallflowers, which Hattie only joins because of her leg. I loved The Wallflowers of 1813 Club. I could see fabulous stories in there.
Jasper is a great hero, and a fitting match for Hattie. He is flawed, partly because he's had to be. He has the common sense to realise going into business is not more shaming than going bankrupt, no matter what Society might think, and he does what needs to be done. Although classed as a rake with a blackened reputation, he steps up and takes responsibility even when he doesn't have to do so, both for Izzy, and in the myriad ways he helps Hattie. Many men with pristine reputations would not have been so honourable.
Hattie has carved a role for herself helping the poor, and through her Jasper discovers a whole side to London he had never considered before. Through his eyes, we see the poverty and harshness of life and the struggles for those not born to privilege. It added depth to the book, and to the characters.
I also liked Freddie. Hattie's overprotective and overbearing brother is a nightmare, though his motives are pure. He mollycoddles Hattie, and feels her damaged leg means she can no longer think for herself or live her life. The depiction of him was very true to life, and his is an attitude many disabled people must put up with, even in 2022.
I found Hattie’s parents less believable. They were so wrapped up in themselves that they were blasé about Hattie’s life. I did think they would probably have paid lip service to Society's mores, even if, privately, they didn't mind what she was doing. They would have insisted she behave as Society would wish, if only because they have another daughter to launch. Even parents who don't care usually like the public to think they do. But for the purposes of the story, I could accept there loving neglect of her.
The one criticism I really have of the book is the initial meeting of Jasper and Hattie. The whole scene is in dialogue; not in itself a bad thing, but much of this dialogue was on-the-nose, telling the reader things by having the characters tell each other, even though they know the other person would already have the information. It's an infodump of a conversation.
This technique worked in Ms Heath’s previous book, “The Earls Inconvenient Houseguest,” because the conversation there was between village gossips and the object of their conversation could overhear them, which was the whole point. It is not so effective in a private conversation between two people who know each other well. The on-the-nose conversations do not happen again throughout the book however, so this one may have been an aberration.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book, and Jasper gives Jack Warriner (another Virginia Heath hero) a run for his money as the Hero I'd Most Like To Meet.
Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort, hasn’t seen Lady Harriet Fitzroy since her serious riding accident. She has grown into a kind, spirited woman, whose sinful smile plays havoc with his jaded emotions! Hattie’s family disapprove of Jasper’s rakish past, but when she risks her reputation to help him, the least he can do is pull her from the wallflower chairs and out of the shadows… 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will fears of scandal keep them apart …
I was curious about this multi authors new series, and while I have read all Mrs Heath books, the other two authors are new to me. And as it is she who opens this trilogy, I was more than happy to learn about these sisters. This was a setting a bit different than what the author writes with this high in the step heroine. Harriet might be a Duke’s daughter, but pain is universal and after what she went through, she is a survivor. One who has decided to offer back what she received by helping others and to enjoy life at the best of her abilities. Jasper went out of the usual path for a peer when he had to provide himself and his near to bankruptcy sire’s estate. A living which has him now labeled a scandal, and more is waiting in the corner.
Them rekindling their childhood friendship is sweet, with funny banters and outside some meddling ill advised relatives, their romance is simple as they fall quickly for one another. The progress from estranged friend to falling-for-the-other friend is rapid and it is only themselves and their fears that hold them back. I really would have loved to be able to read Jasper’s love letter. A sweet cute romance. 4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays and lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.
How to Woo a Wallflower by Virginia Heath is the first book of Society’s Most Scandalous. Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort, hadn’t seen Lady Harriet Fitzroy since before the riding accident that left her with a limp. He sees a new woman before him. One who charms him beyond measure. Hattie’s family disapproves of Jasper’s rakish past. But when Jasper’s life takes a surprising turn, Hattie agrees help him out despite the risk to her reputation.
This was a super cute and quick read! I enjoyed both Jasper and Hattie and I loved their chemistry.
Gorgeous friends-to-lovers romance, it feels a bit treacherous to the other books, but this one has flown right to the top of my favourite Virginia Heath book, loved it!! ---- Oh, how much do I love a Virginia Heath romance?🥰
(Just so you know, that is a rhetorical question) I don’t actually have an adequate answer, only I have been a huge Virginia Heath fan since day one. I have fallen in love with each one of them, but this one really struck a chord with me. This book spoke to me, especially the heroine Hattie who I instantly connected with, she is a wonderful character and a marvellous woman to get to know.
This book is the first in the brand new Society’s Most Scandalous series, each book written by a different (and amazing) historical romance author; Millie Adams and Christine Merrill and I am incredibly excited to follow this mini-series and see what happens next. How to Woo a Wallflower is a brilliant introduction to the series and the characters, it sets the reader up beautifully to discover the other two gems.
But back to this book and I really, really, really, really, really (can I possibly add any more really? – yes I can) really loved this one. It’s got everything we have come to love about Virginia Heath; romance, emotion, tension, drama and yet this has a very different feel to it. I thought it felt more grown up than her previous books, which isn’t me being negative I really liked it.
I absolutely loved the relationship and simmering chemistry between Jasper and Hattie, yes I felt like banging their heads together and shouting at them to get on with it and give into temptation (I’m looking at your Jasper). It’s Jasper that stands in their way with his holier-than-thou gentlemanly actions (I mean for a reputed rake and a walking scandal, this guy is seriously good and gentlemanly, it’s out Hattie who repeatedly gives in to her baser instincts).
….her eyes were level with his lips, giving her wayward ideas. she blamed her blossoms for that, who knew bosoms alone could tempt a lady to sin?….
How To Woo a Wallflower (which really should be renamed; how a wallflower seduces a rake with her enticing bosoms and turns him into a frustrating mess 😉) anyhow this tells the delightfully charming friends to lovers story of how a scandalous rake brings to life a wallflower and sees her blossom into a beautiful Dahlia.
Harriet (Hattie) Fitzroy after an accident which changed her life is now permanently stuck in the dreaded wallflower chairs at every ball, trapped with all the other wallflowers who are deemed ‘un-marriageable’ all because she has a disability. She rebels against her family and the ton in small ways, especially with her continued support for the infirmary whose doctor saved her life. I love how she takes refuge and solace in the small acts of kindness she shows to those currently being treated at the hospital, especially with young Jim a frightened little boy who has grown up way too fast because of his start in life and I do hope that we get to see more of this young lad as I think he has so much more to his character then we see here.
After her accident and all she went through to put her leg to the right she lost a lot of self-confidence, she is embarrassed and ashamed of her leg and despises the pity she receives from others. Plus not to mention tired and angry at having her family wrap her in cotton wool, treating her as though she were a fragile porcelain doll who will brake into smithereens by the slightest breeze. She has let other people’s perseptions and pity affect her in more ways than she would care to admit, her brother especially treats her like a child and I do think some of that has rubbed off on her in a way. Despite her being a wilful, opinionated and confident young woman when alone or whilst at the infirmary, she tends to fade into the background whenever her family are around. I really connected with Hattie, I understood her and related to her, I understood her frustration with her family and those who keep pitying her, yet in a small way, she rebels against them with her passion for helping those in the infirmary.
Her life is plodding along, her mother fully intends on finding husbands for Hattie and her twin sister and their cousin, then suddenly her dull repetitive life gets a huge boost in the form of one sexy as hell, green-eyed rogue; Jasper, The Earl of Beaufort. A walking scandal, a tempting tease, a man with secrets and a well-hidden good heart.
Oh, lordy, lordy just how much do I adore this man?? Jasper is everything I love in a man; hardworking, essentially a self-made man (there is a story behind that), proud, cheeky, charismatic, kind, a little vulnerable and yes he shows it and glorious green eyes (I have always had a serious weakness for a green-eyed rogue Virginia Heath has completely hit my Achilles heel with this man). Jasper is just the tonic that Hattie needs in her life (and mine too) he is alluring and tempting, he will make the knees tremble and turn to mush of any woman (and maybe a few men) who have a pair or working knees. I love him, his passion for what he loves and his work ethic really speaks to me and make me swoon over him all the more.
Jasper may be the heir to a Dukedom but had no choice but to make his own living thanks to his father. So Jasper went out and opened an exclusive Gaming Hell; The Reprobates Club something which has sent the ton into a tizzy, plus adds in a hint (or more than a hint) of scandal in the form of a nutritious ‘Madame’ and you have a racially rake. A rake who has his eyes and heart set on one woman, even though his head is telling him to ‘get down boy’
…I am sick and tired of trying to be a gentleman, of doing the right thing by you and denying myself when all I really want to do is to rip all of your clothes off and have my wicked way with you…
Ooh la,la it’s getting rather steamy around here!!🔥🔥🔥
This story has a beautiful message never judge a book by its cover, and never judge a person before you even though them. It’s about ultimate true love and acceptance and more importantly accepting who you are. Jasper goes out of his way to prove to Hattie that she is more than her disability and that he sees her for the woman she is – honestly, I am melting, we all need a Jasper in our lives!
Jasper and Hattie are perfect for each other, they work so well and have the same character and passion to do good. I really liked the supporting characters too; the 1813 Wallflowers, Jim and the doctor at the infirmary, Hattie’s mother and even her brother; whom I have to admit I didn’t particularly like but who was a crucial part of the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed How to Woo a Wallflower, I loved the story and how easy it is to read, it flows beautifully from one scene to the next. Overall a delightful, playful and incredibly romantic story, a definite must-read and absolutely one of my books of the year loved it!!
This is another enjoyable read by an ultra-reliable author. It is the first in a trilogy, with each story being written by a different author. The series concerns the “infamous Fitzroys’ twin daughters and niece” who are making their debuts and are in the running for the dubious accolade of “Society’s Most Scandalous.” The Wallflower in question is Hattie Fitzroy. As the result of riding accident, Hattie has difficulty in walking and can no longer dance. She is therefore relegated to the chairs at the back of ballrooms along with other society misfits. This is quite an unfair description of Hattie because she is confident, intelligent, and full of compassion. She does not feel sorry for herself but has struggled to learn to walk again and spends a lot of time volunteering as the Ragamuffin Infirmary, helping and encouraging patients who have suffered in similar ways to her. On her way to the infirmary, she meets an old family friend, Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort. Jasper is the owner of “The Reprobates’ Club, a successful, gentlemen’s gaming club that he has built from scratch. He has not seen Hattie for two years and when she smiles at him, he is immediately smitten by his best friend’s baby sister. This is a Friends to Lovers story and of course there are numerous obstacles to their Happy Ever After. Not only does Freddy, Hattie’s overprotective brother warn Jasper off a relationship with her, but Jasper also has his own guilty secret to deal with. The fun with any romance is seeing how they overcome the obstacles and watching the romance develop. I do enjoy the way the author creates her heroines. Increasingly, they are strong, intelligent women who carve out a niche for themselves in a society that favours men in every way. Hattie’s voluntary work feels true to the time – it could have happened that way – and we are able to see her strength, self-respect and compassion demonstrated in a practical way. I like the way Hattie reacts to Izzy and the way she accepts both the child and Jasper’s love for Izzy. I also like the way Ms Heath’s heroes and heroines look beneath society’s superficial mores and attitudes and deal with people as they are. This is demonstrated in the Wallflowers’ coterie that Jasper and Hattie create. Wallflowers are the people that society deem to be misfits: not pretty enough, not rich enough, not interesting enough. And yet, in this novel, the author enables them to shine and have fun. While this is not one of my very favourite Virginia Heath stories, I did enjoy it very much. I found the themes of hypocrisy and the role of women quite thought-provoking, and the sheer joy of the romance kept me smiling all day.
Delightful. I really loved this book by Virginia Heath. How to Woo a Wallflower has great characters, an interesting setting and enough obstacles on the way to happily ever after to make this an entertaining read.
How to Woo a Wallflower expertly explores the outsider status the main characters find themselves in. Jasper, the Earl of Beaufort is disapproved of by polite society because he is a self made man and as the owner of a gaming club has a past laced with scandalous rumors. In his world another scandal threatens to erupt and he is not looking for love when he runs into Hattie his friends younger sister. Hattie is a wallflower because a horseback riding injury has left her with a limp. She has always taken a shine to Lord Jasper, but has no expectations of him. Hattie ends up helping Jasper with his scandal out of the kindness of her heart and in return he helps her discover freedom within her wallflower status. I love how the characters friendship developed into a delightful love story.
If you like your regency romance with with humor, kindness and heart then this story is for you.
And I’m back with another regency romance!💕 Something about summer makes me want to read some cute and steamy romance, and regency romances are my comfort reads. ☀️
Lady Harriet had a riding accident a few years ago, which has left her with a limp. That makes her an automatic wallflower when she has to finally make her debut. 🌸
But there’s nothing shy about her. She’s a strong woman who has to fight to recover. Her experiences have made her compassionate and eager to help out whenever she can. 💁🏼♀️
Jasper, Earl of Beaufort, is Harriet’s older brothers friend, and has a scandalous reputation.😮 He is intrigued by this new version of Harriet, and they become friends. They help each other out and along the way get to know and understand each other. ❤️
Jasper is a flirtatious rouge and Harriet is a kind, strong, and independent woman. I enjoyed their banter and genuine friendship. Jasper makes some boneheaded decisions, but they both dare each other to live their lives boldly. It’s a cute romance and a fun read!💕
✨How to woo a wallflower comes out August 23. Thank you to Harlequin and Netgalley for the gifted ebook!✨
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
This was a pleasant read, with likeable characters and flashes of humour, although there wasn't really much of a plot - there didn't seem to be much keeping Hattie and Jasper apart from about the half-way mark. There were numerous anachronisms which took me out of the story: Hattie addressing a footman incorrectly and being put right by him, 'reporters' besieging a house, phrases like 'What's not to like?'
I mostly stuck around to see if I was right about Jasper and Cora’s relationship. There was a lot of telling and not showing and I didn’t really get why the MCs were into each other.
I was given an ARC of this book and I am so glad. I love this particular timeframe in history so it was right up my alley. Jasper and Harriet were so perfect for each other but there were issues to get past first. I read every word which I don't always do and I am glad I did. I think you'll be quite entertained.
3.5 stars. This is by one of my favorite historical romance authors, and it was cute and sweet. Heroine has had a life altering experience with an accident that almost killed her while leaving her with a limp. The hero has also grown and changed a lot and is both grieving and adapting to a new addition in his life. These are two nature and caring characters who find one another and who are rescuers and mischief makers. There was a subtlety in how they brought out the best in each other and made life brighter. I also enjoyed how the existence of a horrible father on the hero's side was a matter of fact instead of something that was resolved or a continuing hurdle in the plot. It was refreshing to see the hero living a full life without that presence while also having layered feelings related to it. The pacing was a bit slow at times for me, but I enjoyed it. The side characters were fun, but I would have liked to see more interaction with her sister and cousin, because even though independent, the heroine talked about the support and I would have liked to see that with the relationship (especially after the beginning chapters showed the interaction and the one with her mother). The author still managed to fit a lot in a small novel. And, I'm hoping to read another of hers soon.
From the first page to the last you will spellbound by Wooed by the Wallflower. Virginia Heath has given readers a book that is well-written, filled it with a great cast of characters that will hold you spellbound as their individual personalities become more than just part of the tale they come off the pages and pull you in, the book flowed well from one thing to another without being forced, witty and humorous dialogue and with a strong plot that bring this read together perfectly with a little help from Sir Reginald! As Rosemary and Sterling fight their insecurities and memories of the past they travel on a journey filled with drama, hope, passion, and finding the secret to a happy ever after.. With visit from characters who you found a special place in your heart for from the beginning of The Perks of being a Heiress series that brings this read together perfectly!
This is a terrific friends-to-lovers/best friend's sister book. There are several obstacles between Hattie and Jasper and their HEA, and I loved seeing them overcome each.
Hattie dreads the upcoming Season. The riding accident that left her with a permanent limp means she cannot dance, which means she will be relegated to the wallflower chairs with the rest of Society's misfits. It doesn't help that her overprotective brother, Freddie, plans to introduce her to as many single men as he can. She's already been subjected to one who is interested in her for her connections and has made it plain that she's lucky to have his attention. Hattie would much rather spend her time at the children's hospital, helping the doctor who saved her life and leg. On the way to one of these visits, she encounters Jasper, her brother's best friend.
Jasper is a man with a scandalous reputation. Jasper opened a gentlemen's gaming club when his family fell into financial straits. The Reprobates' Club has done very well, and Jasper is now a wealthy man. He also has a reputation with the ladies. So much so that Hattie's brother, Freddie, who is Jasper's best friend, warns him to stay away from Hattie for fear of Jasper's reputation ruining her. When Jasper sees Hattie for the first time since her accident, he is stunned by her beauty and kindness. He knows he should stay away from her, as his reputation would do her no good. But when she comes to his rescue after devastating news turns his life upside down, his honor demands that he help her, too. This began a slow-burn romance that started as friendship and grew to be much more.
I loved the development of the relationship between Jasper and Hattie. Both are nurturers/protectors and bond quickly over their efforts to help each other. Their banter is fun, and their chemistry is obvious. One of my favorite things is that Jasper sees Hattie for the beautiful, kind, and intelligent woman that she is. He knows her handicap, but it doesn't define her in his eyes. I enjoyed his growing respect for her as he got to know her. There are multiple scenes where his eyes are opened to situations that he would never have noticed without her pointing them out. I adored his protectiveness toward her and his ways of demonstrating it. Seeing him run interference with men like Lord Boreham was fun, and his formation of the Wallflowers of 1813 Club was inspired. He did mean to keep their relationship to friends, but the more time they spent together, he realized he wanted more. But with the scandal about to break over him, he doesn't want it to rub off on her, so he tries to distance himself from her.
Hattie had a crush on Jasper when she was younger but put it behind her after her accident. Those feelings are resurrected when they meet again, but with her handicap, she doesn't expect anything to come of it. I loved seeing her step in to help the overwhelmed Jasper deal with Izzy's arrival. I loved that she didn't judge him and saw how hard he worked to overcome past mistakes. She sees the caring, intelligent, and honorable man beneath the scandalous reputation and does everything she can to support him in his efforts. I loved the shopping scene with Jasper's cluelessness and Hattie's amusement at his panic. When the expected scandal broke, I laughed out loud when Hattie faced down a pair of gossipy, judgmental women with an excellent rebuttal. She didn't shy away from blunt language, and it was a pleasure to see her lay into them.
I loved the ending and seeing Hattie lay waste to Jasper's attempts to protect her rather than make her part of the solution. Her anger and hurt were understandable, and I loved seeing Jasper realize his mistake. Unfortunately, Freddie's interference created another hurdle, but Jasper overcame that one quickly with his emotional response to Hattie. I also loved their decision to embrace the scandal rather than hide from it. I wish there were an epilogue, but I hope to see more of them in the following books.
I loved how Hattie's family supported her during her recovery after the accident. Unfortunately, they have become overprotective, and it drives her nuts. They also judge Jasper because of his past and don't look past his reputation at the man he is. Freddie was incredibly frustrating, considering he's supposedly Jasper's best friend. There appears to be some scandal attached to his romance/marriage, and I'd love to know if he has his own story.
I loved the two children in this story. Izzy is adorable in her love for Jack and how she took to Hattie immediately. I enjoyed seeing how she brought out the softer side of Jack. Young Jim was just the opposite. In the hospital with the same type of injury, Hattie had, his fear of his future causes him to lash out at everyone. Hattie's determination to help him runs up against his stubbornness and fear. It was interesting to see what broke the stalemate between them. I also loved how Jack's feelings for Hattie spilled over onto Jim and the solution he devised.
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers. •Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
How to Woo a Wallflower de Virginia Heath serie Society’s Most Scandalous libro 1
Argumento:
Podría tener cualquier debut Excepto la hermana de su mejor amigo...
Jasper, el Conde de Beaufort, no ha visto a Lady Harriet Fitzroy desde su grave accidente de equitación. ¡Se ha convertido en una mujer amable y enérgica, cuya sonrisa pecaminosa hace estragos en sus emociones hastiadas!
La familia de Hattie desaprueba el pasado libertino de Jasper, pero cuando ella arriesga su reputación para ayudarlo, lo menos que puede hacer es sacarla de las sillas de las floreros y sacarla de las sombras...
Mi humilde opinión:
How to Woo a Wallflower es un romance histórico de amigos a amantes.
Sobre los protagonistas ...
Me gustó la fortaleza y valentía de Hattie y toda su historia de vida la hizo un personaje con el cual simpaticé enseguida. Jasper era más que un libertino, tenía un gran corazón y sentido de la responsabilidad. Al recibir a Izzy como su hija lo demostró a pesar de los prejuicios de la sociedad. Creo que lo que más me gustaba de ambos era que no les importaba el qué dirán y que elegían proteger al otro.
Jim el pequeño también tuvo su parte fuerte, fue terrible lo que le pasó pero la forma de tratar a Hattie fue dura y cruel para un niño de 10 y me pregunté si un niño de esa edad hablaría de tal forma.
Sobre el romance...
Me gustó cuando Hattie y Jasper conectaron primero como amigos, sentí la conexión en ese primer encuentro. Sin embargo me faltó química cuando pasan al romance. Les tomó demasiado tiempo confesarlo. Me tenían acostumbrada a su honestidad y cuando se guardaban sus verdaderos sentimientos e intenciones me frustraba bastante.
La historia comenzó bien, me mantuvo comprometida pero mientras avanzaba leyendo no pasaba mucho más. Me pareció que el problema entre Hattie y Jasper se podría haber resuelto mucho antes y fue gracioso porque una vez que confiesan su amor ya no les importa mucho cuidar al otro de lo que diga la sociedad y básicamente podrían haber hecho eso desde un comienzo en lugar de crear tanto drama y angustia.
La historia era buena y los personajes interesantes todos pero fue dolorosamente larga y solo quería que se acabara.
Harriet Fitzroy is truly not enjoying her season in London when her reacquaintance with one of her brother's best friends, Jasper Beaufort, occurs during a road accident which leaves ale everywhere, and which renders her carriage immovable in a conglomeration of other conveyances. The two take advantage of the unfortunate occurrence by reminiscing about old times, until a man approaches Jasper and tells him a woman named Cora is dead and that he is to take her daughter Isabel into his care. There ensues Harriet's inquiry as to who this Cora person is and why Jasper will be raising her daughter.
Through their renewed acquaintance, Jasper also finds out more about Harriet's accident and her recovery from having broken her leg. She has been left with a limp. Harriet has been through a long, arduous recovery and it has made her stronger. However, unable to dance, she has been left at the Wallflowers section of every ball she is invited to.
Harriet volunteers at the local orphanage hospital, helping the doctor that helped her recover her ability to walk. There, she meets a boy who has been run down by a cart and has the same problem she had. Although the boy is rude to her, she perseveres and tries to convince him to have a procedure so that he'll have the best chance of walking again. During this time, Harriet also takes pity on Jasper Beaufort as he is at a loss about how to be a Papa to Isabel. Harriet helps him pick out furniture and other things every little girl needs, and in the process, starts spending a lot of time with Jasper. To which Harriet's brother Freddie takes exception. He is overprotective of Harriet and warns Jasper to stay away from her unless they're in public. Jasper owns a gaming hell that he founded to replenish the family coffers after his father mismanaged them. As such, he has been ostracized by his father, which to Jasper seems a bit hypocritical. However, his reputation isn't the greatest, not because he's a libertine, but because he had to pretend to be a libertine to build up his business.
While Jasper is trying to do the right thing, not only by Isabel, but also by Harriet, he finds he can't stay away from Harriet and enjoys their secret meetings. When the sparks begin to fly between them and Jasper tries to do the right thing to save her reputation, Harriet misinterprets that and feels that because of her leg, Jasper wouldn't want to be with her.
Will these two find common ground and ignore the gossipers?
This was a lovely story that was written with humor, truth and what's really important in life. I loved both Harriet's and Jasper's characters, and it was a very enjoyable read.
To Woo a Wallflower is a delightful, charming regency love story.
You will love this book if you are a fan of the Bridgerton series or Lisa Kleypas’s Wallflower series. What made this book stand out for me was how Virginia put her own unique spin on the world of debutants and the London Season. I really enjoyed Harriet’s story and her character. She is a different kind of London Lady; she’s this beautiful blend of charm and grit. The accident that left her with a limp added an interesting element to the story. Harriet comes from a wealthy and well-known family, but her injury has made her a wallflower. Her experiences at these London Season events are quite different from other heroines from other book series. Instead of men actively pursuing her, they now pity and avoid her. Her overbearing older brother pushes his friends and male acquaintances on her, which leads to lots of awkward conversations (that no one wants to have). Just when Harriet thinks she can’t bear another moment of this Season, in walks Jasper, who saves her (not that she needs saving).
The whole story just flows really nicely. I have to say that I was surprised at the amount of detail and “meat” this story had. I know it is supposed to be a short novella-type book, but it definitely felt like a full fledged novel. I am a huge fan of Virginia’s books and always enjoy her characters. They have this edgy and witty feel to them. I love how women can hold their own against their male counterparts. It makes for some very fabulous conversations.
I loved watching Harriet and Jasper interact. Their chemistry is just fun, real, and definitely swoon-worthy at times. Both characters are going through tough times in their lives, and neither is actively looking for love. One of the things that I liked best about these two was that they were on equal footing. What I mean by this is that one character isn’t above the other, or one character doesn’t become the main rescuer in the story. These both become heroes and help each other in the story. There is a slower progression in their relationship. They start out as friends who help each other out, slowly evolving into something much steamier.
To Woo a Wallflower is perfect for those looking for a book to satisfy their Bridgerton fix.
Thank you, Harlequin Historical, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
[This title was provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review]
4 stars
A highly enjoyable regency romance that helped me out of a reading slump, featuring disability representation and some truly likeable main characters.
Harriet, our heroine, is physically disabled; she walks with a heavy limp thanks to an accident in young adulthood, and knows that as a result her pool of suitors is limited mostly to noblemen too deficient in personality to attract ‘perfect’ (able-bodied) wives. Jasper, our hero, is a charming nobleman who cultivates his reputation as a rake to increase business at his gentleman’s club—meaning of course that he will never be fully respectable. The two start an unlikely but genuine friendship, which grows into a lovely romance.
One aspect of the novel I particularly enjoyed was Harriet’s commitment to charity volunteer work at a free medical clinic for impoverished youth. All too often, poor or ill children are pitiable props that romance novels use to make the heroine look saintly, but Harriet doesn’t condescend to the young man she’s coaching through recovery, rather seeing him as an equal going through the same recovery she underwent, and he is allowed his own personality and agency within the novel.
It seemed at first as though the ‘villain’ of the story would be the press or society gossip, but these played relatively minor roles. I found myself detesting Harriet’s thick-headed elder brother, who constantly tried to ‘protect’ her in ways that infantilized and humiliated her, often making her position worse than before his meddling started. That said, his role was also small, and I really enjoyed that the main conflict ended up being interpersonal rather than the work of an external villain. The real problems revolved around Jasper’s misguided attempts at ‘nobility,’ and were solved by allowing Harriet the autonomy she deserved in making her own life choices.
This is a charming romance with two fully realized main characters, both of whom I enjoyed spending my time with, and a rather accessible entry into period romance as a genre.
I found this an enjoyable, amusing and occasionally serious story. Lady Harriet Fitzroy – Hattie to her loved ones – sustained a serious injury to her leg while riding, which has left her ‘a pitiful limping creature’ in the opinion of the Ton. Although she misses dancing and riding, Hattie devotes her time to helping young patients at the hospital run by the surgeon who saved her life. She accepts her lot as a perpetual wallflower at the balls she attends for her sister’s Season, although she despairs of the attention of the spittle-ridden ‘Earl of Boredom’s’ attempts to win her hand and her fortune. Jasper, Earl of Beaufort, is a friend of Hattie’s brother Freddie. When she comes back into his life he is surprised and delighted by the handsome, intelligent young woman she has grown into. Jasper’s reputation marks him as a rake, but in reality he has been building his own empire after being cold-shouldered by his father. Hattie and Jasper’s friendship quickly develops into a strong attraction, with stolen embraces and more, but when word reaches her brother, he warns Jasper off. However when Jasper takes in Izzy, the young daughter of a dear friend, he needs Hattie’s kindness and knowledge to help him cope with his new position as guardian. In turn she introduces him to the darker side of London, in particular the boy she is cajoling into having the same gruesome operation she had. Jasper decides to aid Hattie’s avoidance of the ‘Spitting Earl’ by creating the fabulous Wallflowers of 1813 club, encouraging both over-looked men and women to come together at the endless season’s events. The story picked up speed towards the end and I couldn’t put it down until I’d reached the extremely satisfying ending. Overall I liked the unusual characters, their interesting personalities and determination to overcome the difficulties of the society in which they lived. I don’t know if such people, hospital and clubs were there in reality, but I like to think there were some kind-hearted souls looking to improve the lot of those in need.
I have always adored Virginia Heath’s books as she presents truly fascinating story all the time, a very kind-hearted, compassionate and thoughtful, albeit limping heroine and an assumed rakish hero. I was greatly touched by the kindness from both Hattie and Jasper. They are meant to be together. Hattie is a daughter of a respected Duke and Jasper is an heir of a Duke however they have a different path because despite Hattie’s beauty and title, she walks with a limp due to horse riding accident and Jasper is infamous as a scandalous rake due to his club and past. Getting to know both characters, I was convinced that whatever society presumes does not look what it seems to look.
On some occasions, Hattie helps Jasper because she is genuinely kind even if she knows that Jasper might have a daughter, she isn’t prejudiced. I could understand why Jasper is captivated by her, because who isn’t? She helps without seeing whoever it is and puts a blind eye to what society presumes therefore Jasper promises to save her from Earl Boredom during the ball. Well I loved the sound of 1813 Wallflower club they create. The closer they become, the more Jasper wants Hattie however common decency will not allow him to drag her into a scandalous mess he’s going to deal with, not only because of her brother but also for her own good. This isn’t merely a story of regency period and romance but a compassionate story containing some heart-warming, uplifting and entertaining plots. Thank you, Virginia Heath, for this ARC which I voluntary reviewed.
This delightful and sweet historical romance has a nice regency slice of life feel to it and a lovely building of a relationship between the hero and heroine. This best friend's sister romance is a charming and delightful quick read that will entertain any historical romance reader. Virginia Heath's writing feels accessible, is well paced and brings to life the romance beautifully.
Jasper, an earl, could have any debutante that he wants but he is constantly drawn to his best friend's sister, who he has not seen since her serious riding accident. Hattie is spirited and strong and she is willing to risk her reputation to help Jasper, even though her family disapproves of his rakish reputation. But as these two spend time together they are both able to help each other grow and explore their desires and wants.
I think the true strength and beauty that lies in the novel really hinges on the trust these two build with each other. I also love Hattie's resilience and strength as she navigates life after her accident which has left her disabled. I love that Jasper see's Hattie on a deeper level and he knows she is strong and capable of any thing. Jasper and Hattie have a lovely chemistry that builds as they spend more time together and learn to rediscover each other in a new light. The steam level on this novel is lightly sensual, and exactly what I would expect from a Historical Harlequin.
If you are looking for a light historical romance novel, with a strong heroine and a misunderstood hero who see the other for who they truly are, then his is an endearing option for you. I really enjoyed the characters and the ease of the writing style that made this a really lovely and low angst read.
Thank you to Harlequin and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
How to Woo A Wallflower Book 1 in the “Society’s Most Scandalous” Series Rating: 4 stars Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC given for review. All opinions are my own.
How to Woo a Wallflower is a great start to this series. I really enjoyed it from start to finish. I think Jasper and Hattie were such a sweet couple to root for. I really liked that they became friends first and seeing them fall in love when they never thought their friendship could lead to that made the story so much better for me. Though she did have a crush on him when she was younger, because of her accident she realized that life can sometimes make you reevaluate your priorities. It is in her journey to help those that are suffering just like she did that reunites her with Jasper. I loved how his first reaction to seeing her again was felt first in the heart and not below the waist (if you know what I mean) Jasper was such a sweet male lead and his decisions to make up for the mistakes he made when he was younger is what made him more attractive. Also that he saw Hattie as this strong independent woman that was more than her damaged leg. One of the best scenes in the book for me is when he confronts her brother and makes him realize that Hattie is not this weak woman in need of soooo much overprotectiveness.
I will continue with the series because I look forward to seeing Hattie’s sisters find love.