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School for Scoundrels #1
Her Lessons in Persuasion
To Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford, the “game” of finding a husband is a competitive sport she wants no part of…until her much-younger step mama forces her to play it. So when her stepmother asks sexy barrister Bram Townsend to pretend to woo the amateur astronomer to boost Wilhelmina’s popularity, it’s up to Wilhelmina to navigate a fake courtship that will keep the family from forcing her into a marriage— any marriage—before she finally receives the inheritance that will allow her to live as she wants.
The trouble is every time Bram takes her in his arms she has a most difficult time remembering theirs is an act…the make-believe passion feels very real indeed.
Bram Townsend is a man on the way living for his books and his beliefs. Squiring Lady Wilhelmina through London’s dusk-to-dawn social whirl is hardly an ordeal—she’s beautiful, bright, and bold, everything he finds tempting in a woman. Their deal means he can meet the “best” people while she keeps her family at bay. The challenge is he quickly finds himself wanting her to say “yes” when she’s so determined to say “no.” She persuaded him to make this impetuous bargain, but how can he convince her to make it real?
The trouble is every time Bram takes her in his arms she has a most difficult time remembering theirs is an act…the make-believe passion feels very real indeed.
Bram Townsend is a man on the way living for his books and his beliefs. Squiring Lady Wilhelmina through London’s dusk-to-dawn social whirl is hardly an ordeal—she’s beautiful, bright, and bold, everything he finds tempting in a woman. Their deal means he can meet the “best” people while she keeps her family at bay. The challenge is he quickly finds himself wanting her to say “yes” when she’s so determined to say “no.” She persuaded him to make this impetuous bargain, but how can he convince her to make it real?
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2023
134 people are currently reading
3922 people want to read
About the author
Megan Frampton
40 books1,053 followersMegan Frampton's love affair with books began when her parents moved her to a remote town in New Hampshire where there was only one television station. And then the TV broke. She devoured every book of fiction in her well-read parents' library, finding special joy in Georgette Heyer and the fairy tales collected and translated by Andrew Lang. Megan majored in English literature at Barnard College and worked in the music industry for fifteen years. She lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband (her former intern) and her kid.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
November 2, 2023
✨She ripped HIS bodice✨
Okay I think I’m glitching because this book cannot be real. Megan Frampton thought it was alright to just give us a hero in a book club, the BEST and most SUPPORTIVE group of Hero Material friends I’ve ever seen, and my favorite trope?????? And she simply thought I would just be OKAY AFTER READING IT????
I cannot get over just how adorable Bram was. PerSUADE me daddy. Seriously idk what I’m on but the fact that he was a barrister and just so sincere about everything destroyed my peace. He had a modest set of rooms and he was worried about them not being clean enough when he took Wilhelmina home and I just think that’s the cutest thing. Screw mansions and manors I just want a barrister with a modest set of rooms and an immodest cock.
This book was just so much fun. There wasn’t really a third act breakup and the book was definitely low angst. It was absolutely fluffy. The only thing possibly fluffier than the book is Bram. Wilhelmina was a little bit dominant in the bedroom and she’s exactly the interruption that Bram needed. Both characters in the book were virgins, and their first time was perfect. Virgin heroes are my absolute favorite. And Bram had a little bit of a mouth on him??? It’s always the quiet ones 😌
Frampton has such a fun writing style and I really mesh with her sense of humor. The past few books I’ve read from her have all been winners and they’re all incredibly different. This book sets up the series so well and I really can’t be bothered to WAIT. I need them NOW. Which hero will be next??? My delicate sensibilities aren’t cut out for this.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶*/5
*I think I wanted one more scene at least.
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
Okay I think I’m glitching because this book cannot be real. Megan Frampton thought it was alright to just give us a hero in a book club, the BEST and most SUPPORTIVE group of Hero Material friends I’ve ever seen, and my favorite trope?????? And she simply thought I would just be OKAY AFTER READING IT????
I cannot get over just how adorable Bram was. PerSUADE me daddy. Seriously idk what I’m on but the fact that he was a barrister and just so sincere about everything destroyed my peace. He had a modest set of rooms and he was worried about them not being clean enough when he took Wilhelmina home and I just think that’s the cutest thing. Screw mansions and manors I just want a barrister with a modest set of rooms and an immodest cock.
This book was just so much fun. There wasn’t really a third act breakup and the book was definitely low angst. It was absolutely fluffy. The only thing possibly fluffier than the book is Bram. Wilhelmina was a little bit dominant in the bedroom and she’s exactly the interruption that Bram needed. Both characters in the book were virgins, and their first time was perfect. Virgin heroes are my absolute favorite. And Bram had a little bit of a mouth on him??? It’s always the quiet ones 😌
Frampton has such a fun writing style and I really mesh with her sense of humor. The past few books I’ve read from her have all been winners and they’re all incredibly different. This book sets up the series so well and I really can’t be bothered to WAIT. I need them NOW. Which hero will be next??? My delicate sensibilities aren’t cut out for this.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶*/5
*I think I wanted one more scene at least.
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
August 30, 2023
She imagined husbands would not mych appreciate a woman who'd rather be peering through a telescope than admiring her spouse's greatness.
And from what she'd seen firsthand, admiring a spouse's greatness was approximately forty percent of a spouse'a duties. The remainder included raising children, purchasing knickknacks, and drinking copious amounts of tea.
Not the life she wanted. Though she did appreciate a good cup of tea.
The book was meh, but buddy reading with my beautiful babe is always the best experience 🥰
The main character was a little hard to like and this threw me off a little because she clearly wasn't written to be one of those difficult charcters you end up eventually loving in the end.
She was a pick-me, alright, and one with an opinion on everything, nonetheless.
Bram was okay, but he was also pretty plain. The thing I like the most about him (and the whole book, in general) was his relationship with his friends. They were pretty cute together, à la Dead Poets Society.
Frampton's writing is not bad and easy to follow, but it sounded a little too modern for me.
All the praise to the cover that had me screaming in bi panic from the very first moment.
ACTUAL RATINGS 2,5/5
August 21, 2022
5 Stars
"You make me see stars," she said softly. "And you carry me to them," he replied.
Fiesty astromer Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford does not want to marry nor care too much about society. She's content with her dog (Dipper), her aunt, non-fiction books, and the stars. That is until she meets... sexy barrister Bram Townsend who lives for his work and his gang of hot book club gentlemen. Together, Wilhelmina and Bram debate, not only with their brains but with their sizzling kisses too... this is the first installment of School for Scroundrels.
Wow! This was a fantastic read. I love how Wilhelmina and Bram are equal partners... and how smart Wilhelmina is and how "forward" Bram is for his time. They have amazing kissing and sex scenes. The steam level is pretty hot which I love. I really enjoyed this pair and look forward to the next book in the series (here's to looking at you Simeon! Yum!)
Thanks to Netgalley and it's publisher for a free copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
"You make me see stars," she said softly. "And you carry me to them," he replied.
Fiesty astromer Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford does not want to marry nor care too much about society. She's content with her dog (Dipper), her aunt, non-fiction books, and the stars. That is until she meets... sexy barrister Bram Townsend who lives for his work and his gang of hot book club gentlemen. Together, Wilhelmina and Bram debate, not only with their brains but with their sizzling kisses too... this is the first installment of School for Scroundrels.
Wow! This was a fantastic read. I love how Wilhelmina and Bram are equal partners... and how smart Wilhelmina is and how "forward" Bram is for his time. They have amazing kissing and sex scenes. The steam level is pretty hot which I love. I really enjoyed this pair and look forward to the next book in the series (here's to looking at you Simeon! Yum!)
Thanks to Netgalley and it's publisher for a free copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2022
Her Lessons in Persuasion is the first book in a new series, School for Scoundrels, by Megan Framtpon. This has so many fun moments: fake relationship, grumpy heroine who is an astronomer, class difference (she’s a lady, he’s a working barrister), bookish hero (he even has a monthly meeting with his friends to discuss reads).
Wilhelmina is 24, determined not to marry, and counting down the days (six months!) until she can access her inheritance. In the mean time she would rather be left with her dog, her Aunt, her books (nonfiction of course because she’d rather read facts), her telescope, and astronomy. She has a bit of a reputation of being a grump, when one evening she meets the hero Bram. Bram is an ordinary man, he was raised as an orphan at the Devenaugh Home for Destitute Boys (or more famously known as the School for Scoundrels) and worked hard to become a barrister. He only has time for work and his friends, four fellow orphans he’s known since childhood. He and his friends have a monthly meeting where they discuss books and life. Bram meets Wilhelmina while coming home from work, there is a misunderstanding when he spots her on a bridge…he thinks she needs rescuing and steps in, but she was actually just trying to get a better look at the stars. After, he insists on escorting her home and she shocks even herself by kissing him when he leaves. They meet again at a bachelor-style auction where her new stepmother (who is just 5 years younger than her) bids on Bram to escort Wilhelmina to an opera. When that goes well, her father and stepmother ask Bram to fake court her since other gentlemen became interested in Wilhelmina after their opera outing.
I adored that the hero is bookish and even has a book club with his friends, I want to get to all of their books! Bram and Wilhelmina are both a bit quirky, both virgins, and just cute together. I thought it was refreshingly fun that her stepmother and father convince Bram to fake date/court her (instead of the hero or heroine setting it up). I liked seeing Bram and Wilhelmina realize they have so much in common and see their feelings for one another grow. For the last half there was a focus on her getting into a society and some mock debate exercises they do that I think dragged on for too much of the story, but otherwise this was just a sweet historical romance with low-angst and a bit of a slow burn.
3.5 stars/rounded up on GR. Thank you to the publisher (Avon Books) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. Her Lessons in Persuasion is out January 24, 2023.
Wilhelmina is 24, determined not to marry, and counting down the days (six months!) until she can access her inheritance. In the mean time she would rather be left with her dog, her Aunt, her books (nonfiction of course because she’d rather read facts), her telescope, and astronomy. She has a bit of a reputation of being a grump, when one evening she meets the hero Bram. Bram is an ordinary man, he was raised as an orphan at the Devenaugh Home for Destitute Boys (or more famously known as the School for Scoundrels) and worked hard to become a barrister. He only has time for work and his friends, four fellow orphans he’s known since childhood. He and his friends have a monthly meeting where they discuss books and life. Bram meets Wilhelmina while coming home from work, there is a misunderstanding when he spots her on a bridge…he thinks she needs rescuing and steps in, but she was actually just trying to get a better look at the stars. After, he insists on escorting her home and she shocks even herself by kissing him when he leaves. They meet again at a bachelor-style auction where her new stepmother (who is just 5 years younger than her) bids on Bram to escort Wilhelmina to an opera. When that goes well, her father and stepmother ask Bram to fake court her since other gentlemen became interested in Wilhelmina after their opera outing.
I adored that the hero is bookish and even has a book club with his friends, I want to get to all of their books! Bram and Wilhelmina are both a bit quirky, both virgins, and just cute together. I thought it was refreshingly fun that her stepmother and father convince Bram to fake date/court her (instead of the hero or heroine setting it up). I liked seeing Bram and Wilhelmina realize they have so much in common and see their feelings for one another grow. For the last half there was a focus on her getting into a society and some mock debate exercises they do that I think dragged on for too much of the story, but otherwise this was just a sweet historical romance with low-angst and a bit of a slow burn.
3.5 stars/rounded up on GR. Thank you to the publisher (Avon Books) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. Her Lessons in Persuasion is out January 24, 2023.
March 14, 2023
If you think we won't like a frothy, funny historical romance between an introverted bluestocking astronomer and an argumentative barrister who also happens to be a virgin - then you don't know us. This is a low-angst, medium heat, high fun novel and we blew through it!
Wilhelmina is 7 months away from receiving her inheritance, and then she and her spinster aunt can move to a cottage in the country where she can buy a telescope and stargaze to her heart's content. Unfortunately, her father has just married a woman even younger than Wilhelmina who's also a successful matchmaker. She bids on Bram in the equivalent of a date auction, not knowing that Bram and Wilhelmina shared a light flirtation and kiss. Bram decides that he'll help Wilhelmina avoid marriage... unfortunately it turns out that he may want to marry her even more than she wants to remain unwed.
Hijinks and debates ensue, and that wicked stepmother turns out to have a few welcome shades of gray. Although it's a quick, fun read, that doesn't mean there aren't deeper moments to consider. Megan Frampton is turning into one of our must-read authors, and this book just made that resolution even firmer.
33-Word Summaries:
Laine: When a lady astronomer and an orphan barrister are both virgins who have sworn never to marry, the question becomes, who will cave first when presented with true love and enticing carnal delights?
Meg: Oh the difficult life of an upper-class spinster who will eventually get her inheritance! Luckily for Wilhelmina, Bram is the most supportive fake boyfriend ever, and he’ll ensure no one proposes (besides himself).
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Wilhelmina is 7 months away from receiving her inheritance, and then she and her spinster aunt can move to a cottage in the country where she can buy a telescope and stargaze to her heart's content. Unfortunately, her father has just married a woman even younger than Wilhelmina who's also a successful matchmaker. She bids on Bram in the equivalent of a date auction, not knowing that Bram and Wilhelmina shared a light flirtation and kiss. Bram decides that he'll help Wilhelmina avoid marriage... unfortunately it turns out that he may want to marry her even more than she wants to remain unwed.
Hijinks and debates ensue, and that wicked stepmother turns out to have a few welcome shades of gray. Although it's a quick, fun read, that doesn't mean there aren't deeper moments to consider. Megan Frampton is turning into one of our must-read authors, and this book just made that resolution even firmer.
33-Word Summaries:
Laine: When a lady astronomer and an orphan barrister are both virgins who have sworn never to marry, the question becomes, who will cave first when presented with true love and enticing carnal delights?
Meg: Oh the difficult life of an upper-class spinster who will eventually get her inheritance! Luckily for Wilhelmina, Bram is the most supportive fake boyfriend ever, and he’ll ensure no one proposes (besides himself).
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
February 26, 2023
First of all, I would like to thank my friend Michelle for giving me an uncorrected proof of this book before it came out!! I loved absolutely everything about my first historical romance novel that I read! I loved that Wilhelmina was rebelling against her parents and society by seeking freedom from marriage and trying to join an all-male astronomy club. However, seeing as how this is a romance novel, what would it be without a romantic lead? Let me tell you my friends, that I absolutely adored Bram Townsend and his group of four friends who are all members of a book club and have known each other since they were orphans. They reminded me of another group of friends that I adore: The Three Musketeers! I loved that he was also a lawyer as well as I have a judge in my family myself. I absolutely loved how the relationship grows between the two characters and how they grow to accept each other and love one another. I always loved how Bram says that he sees Wilhelmina because it reminded me of Avatar. I loved the list that is included of all the men that Wilhelmina does not want to marry. However, I did not love the fact that Victor Hugo was included in this list and that she hates Les Miserables which is one of my absolutely favorite books of all time! I did however love the fact that she loves Frankenstein and attending the opera.
February 7, 2023
♡₊˚ 🦢・₊✧ Whenever you read a historical romance, you can fully expect lots of PINING AND YEARNING! YEARNING ACROSS A BALLROOM? THAT SHT HITS.
Her Lessons in Persuasion is Frampton's newest romance and oh my god I've been wanting to read it since it was announced. It's a new series, so new characters and stories which I love. And Megan Frampton is definitely one of my favorite historical romance authors because her books are always so swoony and fun to read.
If you love fake dating, this book is for you. I also really love their meet-disaster oh my god. So, Wilhemina is looking at the stars but Bram thinks she's going to fall off a bridge and he pulls her and she falls on top of him. BUT SHE'S SO PISSED AND ANGRY WITH HIM LMAO. She just wanted to see the stars, you see, she's an astronomer! He's so intrigued by her immediately. They decide not to share names in that first meeting tho and when Wilhemina suddenly kisses him before walking away, his life completely changes. HE DIDN'T EXPECT THAT!
He's such a rule follower and has a whole plan for his future. He didn't expect Wilhemina. But she didn't expect him either. I love them together! They match up so well ♡ They bicker around constantly and they have very similar likes and wants, so their relationship quickly develops into something more. They're flirty as hell with each other and KISS OFTEN EVEN THOUGH THEY KNOW THEY SHOULDN'T HAVE TO.
Also if you're looking for a virgin hero, yup. Both of them have never experienced sex, so the first time they do it, it's actually their VERY first time. It's so fun to see them grow in this relationship and dynamic. Bram's whole life has been following this set of rules of how to live his life and falling in love was not one of them. But meeting her changes everything.
Her Lessons in Persuasion is Frampton's newest romance and oh my god I've been wanting to read it since it was announced. It's a new series, so new characters and stories which I love. And Megan Frampton is definitely one of my favorite historical romance authors because her books are always so swoony and fun to read.
If you love fake dating, this book is for you. I also really love their meet-disaster oh my god. So, Wilhemina is looking at the stars but Bram thinks she's going to fall off a bridge and he pulls her and she falls on top of him. BUT SHE'S SO PISSED AND ANGRY WITH HIM LMAO. She just wanted to see the stars, you see, she's an astronomer! He's so intrigued by her immediately. They decide not to share names in that first meeting tho and when Wilhemina suddenly kisses him before walking away, his life completely changes. HE DIDN'T EXPECT THAT!
He's such a rule follower and has a whole plan for his future. He didn't expect Wilhemina. But she didn't expect him either. I love them together! They match up so well ♡ They bicker around constantly and they have very similar likes and wants, so their relationship quickly develops into something more. They're flirty as hell with each other and KISS OFTEN EVEN THOUGH THEY KNOW THEY SHOULDN'T HAVE TO.
Also if you're looking for a virgin hero, yup. Both of them have never experienced sex, so the first time they do it, it's actually their VERY first time. It's so fun to see them grow in this relationship and dynamic. Bram's whole life has been following this set of rules of how to live his life and falling in love was not one of them. But meeting her changes everything.
August 18, 2022
5 🌟's!
📝 tropes: stem heroine (astronomer), bookish hero, reverse grumpy x sunshine, virgin hero/heroine, class diff, fake dating
🌶 spice: 2.5/5 (heroine is def dominant 🥵)
❌ CW: misogyny
stop bc why was this so good😃🤌🏽 this is my first read by megan frampton and will definitely not be the last bc holy shit you guys, this book was so fucking charming✨ and hilarious and romantic and AGHHSKJFHDK. i had SO MUCH FUN reading this entire novel from start to finish - the writing, characters and dialogue are all so incredibly witty and clever, i could not stop reading it!!
lady wilhelmina is "infamous for her nonconformity" and is an astronomer in a patriarchal world where apparently, that is ~not the vibes~ 🙄 our hero, mr. bram townsend, is a barrister (judge in modern day terms) and a full-time bookish man (he's a lover of fiction and is part of a book club with 4 of his friends .. more on this later). in order to get mina engaged, her step-mother appoints bram to fake court/date her in order to boost her popularity in Society. and of courseeeee, fake dating somehow turns into some real ~FEELINGS~ and we get some fun times in between 😈
to reiterate ONCE MORE, i absolutely fucking ADORED this book. firstly, the structure of it is magnificent. every chapter is followed by a section titled "Men I Do Not Wish To Marry" and it is just 🤌🏽 PEAK FUNNY. secondly, the characters in this book, which include our MC's as well as the side cast of Bram's hilarious friend group (THEY ARE PRECIOUS AND HILARIOUS AND I LOVE THEM) + Dipper (the doggo that is the best listener ever🥺) + Aunt Flora + house staff = supreme amounts of entertainment for us dear readers😩🥳 so many lines and scenes are highlighted in the book just me being "LOL" or "IM SCREAMING" and it's 🤌🏽
ugh, im just saying the same things ab how much this book is truly a charming read but i MEAN ITTTTT, it's so funny and fun and lovely so please do yourselves a favor and pre-order this book because you'll def want to read it when it comes out next year friends!!
MWAH CHEF'S KISS.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publishers Avon and Harper Voyager for the e-ARC via Netgalley. Releases January 24, 2023!
📝 tropes: stem heroine (astronomer), bookish hero, reverse grumpy x sunshine, virgin hero/heroine, class diff, fake dating
🌶 spice: 2.5/5 (heroine is def dominant 🥵)
❌ CW: misogyny
stop bc why was this so good😃🤌🏽 this is my first read by megan frampton and will definitely not be the last bc holy shit you guys, this book was so fucking charming✨ and hilarious and romantic and AGHHSKJFHDK. i had SO MUCH FUN reading this entire novel from start to finish - the writing, characters and dialogue are all so incredibly witty and clever, i could not stop reading it!!
lady wilhelmina is "infamous for her nonconformity" and is an astronomer in a patriarchal world where apparently, that is ~not the vibes~ 🙄 our hero, mr. bram townsend, is a barrister (judge in modern day terms) and a full-time bookish man (he's a lover of fiction and is part of a book club with 4 of his friends .. more on this later). in order to get mina engaged, her step-mother appoints bram to fake court/date her in order to boost her popularity in Society. and of courseeeee, fake dating somehow turns into some real ~FEELINGS~ and we get some fun times in between 😈
to reiterate ONCE MORE, i absolutely fucking ADORED this book. firstly, the structure of it is magnificent. every chapter is followed by a section titled "Men I Do Not Wish To Marry" and it is just 🤌🏽 PEAK FUNNY. secondly, the characters in this book, which include our MC's as well as the side cast of Bram's hilarious friend group (THEY ARE PRECIOUS AND HILARIOUS AND I LOVE THEM) + Dipper (the doggo that is the best listener ever🥺) + Aunt Flora + house staff = supreme amounts of entertainment for us dear readers😩🥳 so many lines and scenes are highlighted in the book just me being "LOL" or "IM SCREAMING" and it's 🤌🏽
ugh, im just saying the same things ab how much this book is truly a charming read but i MEAN ITTTTT, it's so funny and fun and lovely so please do yourselves a favor and pre-order this book because you'll def want to read it when it comes out next year friends!!
MWAH CHEF'S KISS.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publishers Avon and Harper Voyager for the e-ARC via Netgalley. Releases January 24, 2023!
did-not-finish
November 5, 2023DNF 15% No rating.
Pick-me girl meets Barry-Sue and pretend it’s 1850.
He volunteers to be in a charity bachelor auction…. I’m out.
Pick-me girl meets Barry-Sue and pretend it’s 1850.
He volunteers to be in a charity bachelor auction…. I’m out.
February 17, 2023
Enjoyable, but not a standout. Though we don't often get a virgin hero so that's fun! If you're looking for a solid historical romance option with a smart heroine with agency and a hero who just wants to love and support her rather than control her, Her Lessons in Persuasion delivers. Plus the heroine is into astronomy and there's a subplot of her trying to be taken seriously which I enjoyed.
The novel is fun and a slow burn with only a couple of super steamy scenes. Which could be a pro or con depending on your preference. I like that this offers a historical with modern sensibilities, but the characterization doesn't have a ton of depth and left me wanting more. It was good, but not something that is going to stick with me.
The novel is fun and a slow burn with only a couple of super steamy scenes. Which could be a pro or con depending on your preference. I like that this offers a historical with modern sensibilities, but the characterization doesn't have a ton of depth and left me wanting more. It was good, but not something that is going to stick with me.
June 22, 2023
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Uncommon profession or hobby for the heroine. (for the time period.)
Kind of interesting characters but they lacked some depth and needed to be a little bit more developed and not so repetitive.
Interesting side characters. (The heroes group of friends.)
➖ What I disliked:
Repetitive.
Repetitive character descriptions. (especially about how handsome and tall/big the hero is.)
Some parts felt unfinished and disjointed/jumbled.
Anachronistic. (a bachelor auction for charity in 1850 London. Etc.)
Slow-paced/dragged.
Thin and boring plot.
Formulaic and predictable.
The main characters are kind of formulaic in how they are written/portrayed …. it would be much more interesting and add depth if the there was more variety in appearance/looks.
The heroines father and step-mother.
Lacking depth and development of the main characters. (backstory etc.)
The chemistry and romantic build up was lacking and unconvincing.
Issues were resolved too quickly and easily.
December 22, 2022
Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford is more interested in independence than finding a husband; however, this amateur astronomer's younger stepmother has different plans in mind: buying barrister Bram Townsend in a charity auction and suggesting a fake courtship to boost Wilhelmina's popularity.
This is the first book in the new School for Scoundrels series, which will focus on Bram and his group of friends who are all orphans that have made successes of themselves. Their comradery reminded me of Lenora Bell's Wallflowers vs Rogues, and the general plot of this book felt similar to Eva Leigh's How the Wallflower Was Won.
Auctioned plots are a favorite of mine, so I enjoyed the twist of Bram being purchased for charity. I thought these characters paired well together and I liked getting to see more of their personalities as the book developed. Bram was such a loyal and lovable beta hero, and I liked that Wilhelmina had strong opinions but was willing to admit when she didn't give things (like the opera or fiction novels) a fair chance. The end was a little over-the-top for me, but I was entertained enough by the rest of the book to round this one from 3.5 to 4 stars. (Also, bonus points for a non-Duke hero...refreshing!)
Tropes: Bluestocking, Virgin Hero, Auctioned/Gambled/Sold, Fake Relationship
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the first book in the new School for Scoundrels series, which will focus on Bram and his group of friends who are all orphans that have made successes of themselves. Their comradery reminded me of Lenora Bell's Wallflowers vs Rogues, and the general plot of this book felt similar to Eva Leigh's How the Wallflower Was Won.
Auctioned plots are a favorite of mine, so I enjoyed the twist of Bram being purchased for charity. I thought these characters paired well together and I liked getting to see more of their personalities as the book developed. Bram was such a loyal and lovable beta hero, and I liked that Wilhelmina had strong opinions but was willing to admit when she didn't give things (like the opera or fiction novels) a fair chance. The end was a little over-the-top for me, but I was entertained enough by the rest of the book to round this one from 3.5 to 4 stars. (Also, bonus points for a non-Duke hero...refreshing!)
Tropes: Bluestocking, Virgin Hero, Auctioned/Gambled/Sold, Fake Relationship
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
January 20, 2023
This is such a fun and refreshing historical romance. It follows Wilhelmina, an amateur astrologer with an aversion to marriage, and Bram, a barrister asked to fake a relationship with Wilhelmina in order to attract potential suitors. Bram is a career-driven man with a love of reading. He never expected to be distracted by a woman, but when he meets Wilhelmina, his life is irrevocably changed. As the pair navigates a fake courtship, they find they have many things in common, and their feelings for each other grow, But they both have to decide if marriage is in their future.
I love Wilhelmina and Bram. They both have interesting backstories, and their romance is fantastic. Bram (love him!) really sees and understands Wilhelmina in a way that no one else does. With a new stepmother (She’s the worst. She’s younger than Wilhelmina, which she points out all of the time! Ugh! And she’s pretty vapid and hurtful at times.) pressuring her to marry, Wilhelmina is frustrated. She has goals that don’t revolve around being someone’s wife, and she does not abide by the rules of society. She challenges the status quo, and she fights for what she wants. I think Bram loves this about her. She’s so different from the typical society woman, and she intrigues him as no other woman ever has. He’s so career-focused, and he feels he has no time for women. But that all changes when he meets Wilhelmina.
Wilhelmina and Bram challenge each other, and their banter is fantastic. And their first meeting is so awkward and comical! It definitely sets the tone for the story. Whether they are debating, discussing literature or astronomy, or arguing, their connection is palpable. They make each other think and grow and change and experience new things. For example, Wilhelmina, who doesn’t like change, has never been to the opera, but she ends up going with Bram. The wonder and delight Wilhelmina feels when she goes are so lovely, and the wonder Bram feels when watching her experience new things is just as charming. These two were made for each other.
Both Bram and Wilhelmina are virgins, and the attraction and sexual excitement that they feel are new to both of them. They explore these feelings and new experiences together, which I liked. I don’t read a lot of historical romances where the man is as inexperienced as the woman, and it was refreshing. It was also awkward at times and very sweet. Plus, Bram falls first, and I adore romances with this trope. The way he goes about trying to convince her that they belong together is swoon-tastic.
And Bram’s best friends/brothers are the best. They’re hilarious together, and you can tell they’re really close. They’re the type of friends that will help you no matter what, no questions asked. I think it’s great that these men found each other when they were all boys and alone in the world. They are more brothers than friends, and I’m super excited that each will be the focus of future books in the series. They remind me of Alexa Aston’s Second Sons of London – swoon-worthy and unique men with hearts of gold.
I also love that they have discussions about books and reading, and they often talk about their love of reading, albeit in very different genres. They have an interesting conversation about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and they discuss astronomy books that Bram reads to learn more about Wilhelmina’s passion. Romances that include characters who love reading and learning make me so happy. There are also some strong messages about family expectations, gender inequality, the treatment of different social classes, and more.
I thought this was a great start to Megan Frampton’s new series. It has great characters, a swoon-worthy romance, an amazing found family, and more. I would definitely recommend it to historical romance readers, and I’m excited to continue the series. I can’t wait to see which of Bram’s friends will be the focus of the next book!
Special thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
I love Wilhelmina and Bram. They both have interesting backstories, and their romance is fantastic. Bram (love him!) really sees and understands Wilhelmina in a way that no one else does. With a new stepmother (She’s the worst. She’s younger than Wilhelmina, which she points out all of the time! Ugh! And she’s pretty vapid and hurtful at times.) pressuring her to marry, Wilhelmina is frustrated. She has goals that don’t revolve around being someone’s wife, and she does not abide by the rules of society. She challenges the status quo, and she fights for what she wants. I think Bram loves this about her. She’s so different from the typical society woman, and she intrigues him as no other woman ever has. He’s so career-focused, and he feels he has no time for women. But that all changes when he meets Wilhelmina.
Wilhelmina and Bram challenge each other, and their banter is fantastic. And their first meeting is so awkward and comical! It definitely sets the tone for the story. Whether they are debating, discussing literature or astronomy, or arguing, their connection is palpable. They make each other think and grow and change and experience new things. For example, Wilhelmina, who doesn’t like change, has never been to the opera, but she ends up going with Bram. The wonder and delight Wilhelmina feels when she goes are so lovely, and the wonder Bram feels when watching her experience new things is just as charming. These two were made for each other.
Both Bram and Wilhelmina are virgins, and the attraction and sexual excitement that they feel are new to both of them. They explore these feelings and new experiences together, which I liked. I don’t read a lot of historical romances where the man is as inexperienced as the woman, and it was refreshing. It was also awkward at times and very sweet. Plus, Bram falls first, and I adore romances with this trope. The way he goes about trying to convince her that they belong together is swoon-tastic.
And Bram’s best friends/brothers are the best. They’re hilarious together, and you can tell they’re really close. They’re the type of friends that will help you no matter what, no questions asked. I think it’s great that these men found each other when they were all boys and alone in the world. They are more brothers than friends, and I’m super excited that each will be the focus of future books in the series. They remind me of Alexa Aston’s Second Sons of London – swoon-worthy and unique men with hearts of gold.
I also love that they have discussions about books and reading, and they often talk about their love of reading, albeit in very different genres. They have an interesting conversation about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and they discuss astronomy books that Bram reads to learn more about Wilhelmina’s passion. Romances that include characters who love reading and learning make me so happy. There are also some strong messages about family expectations, gender inequality, the treatment of different social classes, and more.
I thought this was a great start to Megan Frampton’s new series. It has great characters, a swoon-worthy romance, an amazing found family, and more. I would definitely recommend it to historical romance readers, and I’m excited to continue the series. I can’t wait to see which of Bram’s friends will be the focus of the next book!
Special thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
February 2, 2023
It’s finally here!!! 🎉📘😁 Just released 1/24/23 and is the 1st book in A SCHOOL FOR SCOUNDRELS series by Megan Frampton. Tropes are fake dating with a reverse grumpy sunshine//stem heroine. It’s about our heroine Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford an amateur astronomer, who’s very independent with a strong personality to match. Our hero is a sexy barrister named Bram Townsend who agrees to be in a fake relationship with Wilhelmina in order to attract suitors for marriage. Neither want marriage, this farce is her stepmothers idea, which of course, is coupled with her father whom is backing up his new wife. These two have a great deal in common and do eventually get their happily ever after, as Bram shows her he sees who she is, even by showing interest in her astronomy.. which is all Wilhelmina wanted. Sound unique.. it is.. completely different than her other books I’ve read. Give this book a try. It’s a sweet romance that tugged at my heartstrings. ❥ 4.5 stars — Pub. 1/24/23
February 4, 2023
3 stars:)
While I did greatly appreciate how she tore his shirt off of him, I really needed a lot more from that particular scene. You can't tease femmedom and then not fully deliver because UGH. I feel like Megan Frampton is like Tessa Dare for me, in that I really can't get fully on board with any of the books. There's something about those books that just try to scream *isn't this writing so fun and flirty and quirky* that I just never get into the story, if that makes sense. In no way is this meant to be rude, but it just always feels a bit off to me, personally.
While I did greatly appreciate how she tore his shirt off of him, I really needed a lot more from that particular scene. You can't tease femmedom and then not fully deliver because UGH. I feel like Megan Frampton is like Tessa Dare for me, in that I really can't get fully on board with any of the books. There's something about those books that just try to scream *isn't this writing so fun and flirty and quirky* that I just never get into the story, if that makes sense. In no way is this meant to be rude, but it just always feels a bit off to me, personally.
February 24, 2023
Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford isn’t interested in the social whirl or in finding a husband, but with six months before she can claim her inheritance and set herself up as an independent spinster, she has little choice but to comply with her new stepmother’s machinations. When said stepmother goes so far as to ask the ridiculously attractive barrister, Bram Townsend, to pretend to court Wilhelmina in the hopes of boosting other, more suitable suitors’ interests, he agrees. At first, Wilhelmina is furious, but when Bram explains that he’ll help her keep other suitors at bay and help her avoid an unwanted engagement, she realizes that their fake courtship will help her last another six months in her untenable situation.
Unfortunately for Bram, spending more time with Wilhelmina makes it increasingly difficult for him to remember that their courtship is meant to be fake because his feelings are quite real. He may not have a title or be able to trace his lineage, but Bram is ambitious, working his way up and fighting for justice with his eye on the position of judge. Escorting Lady Wilhelmina around in the evenings is a boon for him, allowing him to meet the right people while also helping her. But his biggest challenge will be making her see that marriage to him could be unlike anything she’d ever imagined, if he can just convince her to trust her feelings for him over her logical mind.
I never knew that what I really wanted to read in a romance was a solid group of male friends but here we are. Bram and his friends completely stole the show in this book and I adored them for their loyalty to one another and for the fact that they were open and clear in their brotherly affection for and support of one another. They joked and ribbed each other, but they were also very serious about helping Bram process his feelings and find his HEA. They even had a book club together, which of course just melted me. It was impossible not to be charmed by Bram and his friends and to root for him as he dealt with the realization that he didn’t actually want to be alone with nothing but his work and that his friends, though he loved them dearly, weren’t enough to fulfill him completely. Wilhelmina was harder to warm up to. She was incredibly judgmental and very presumptuous and I was just itching for her to finally stand up to her overbearing stepmother. Unfortunately, that never really happened to my satisfaction, but that lady did help Wilhelmina’s pompous father get out of the way of her HEA with Bram so that did redeem her a bit.
Fortunately, Wilhelmina did recognize her faults and tendencies to write things off before having tried them and she was willing to reevaluate her opinions, especially with Bram to challenge her. Really, these two challenged one another and I enjoyed seeing that blossom into the foundation of a true partnership. I loved how much they learned together, even exploring intimacies for the first time together. (Yes, we have an adorable virgin hero here). The character and relationship development between Bram and Wilhelmina was lovely for me, as such development always is, and I very much look forward to the rest of Bram’s friends finding their HEAs.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Unfortunately for Bram, spending more time with Wilhelmina makes it increasingly difficult for him to remember that their courtship is meant to be fake because his feelings are quite real. He may not have a title or be able to trace his lineage, but Bram is ambitious, working his way up and fighting for justice with his eye on the position of judge. Escorting Lady Wilhelmina around in the evenings is a boon for him, allowing him to meet the right people while also helping her. But his biggest challenge will be making her see that marriage to him could be unlike anything she’d ever imagined, if he can just convince her to trust her feelings for him over her logical mind.
I never knew that what I really wanted to read in a romance was a solid group of male friends but here we are. Bram and his friends completely stole the show in this book and I adored them for their loyalty to one another and for the fact that they were open and clear in their brotherly affection for and support of one another. They joked and ribbed each other, but they were also very serious about helping Bram process his feelings and find his HEA. They even had a book club together, which of course just melted me. It was impossible not to be charmed by Bram and his friends and to root for him as he dealt with the realization that he didn’t actually want to be alone with nothing but his work and that his friends, though he loved them dearly, weren’t enough to fulfill him completely. Wilhelmina was harder to warm up to. She was incredibly judgmental and very presumptuous and I was just itching for her to finally stand up to her overbearing stepmother. Unfortunately, that never really happened to my satisfaction, but that lady did help Wilhelmina’s pompous father get out of the way of her HEA with Bram so that did redeem her a bit.
Fortunately, Wilhelmina did recognize her faults and tendencies to write things off before having tried them and she was willing to reevaluate her opinions, especially with Bram to challenge her. Really, these two challenged one another and I enjoyed seeing that blossom into the foundation of a true partnership. I loved how much they learned together, even exploring intimacies for the first time together. (Yes, we have an adorable virgin hero here). The character and relationship development between Bram and Wilhelmina was lovely for me, as such development always is, and I very much look forward to the rest of Bram’s friends finding their HEAs.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
May 21, 2023
There is nothing I love more than a wallflower, a working-class hero, and a fake relationship to finish the cake with a cherry on top! I loved this one so much, aside from the fact that it's got my favorite trope, it was all because of Wilhelmina! She did not want to find a husband, much less love! but one thing will always triumph! and that is one sexy barrister to change her mind! Great story!
* I reread it in May. I loved it so much. I wanted to highlight my favorite parts. How did I forget that she was a Dom? Lol. Well, she kicks butt!
* I reread it in May. I loved it so much. I wanted to highlight my favorite parts. How did I forget that she was a Dom? Lol. Well, she kicks butt!
January 4, 2023
A fun and sweet start to the series with an astronomer heroine and a lawyer hero. This was my first Megan Frampton book and I loved her humor and the dynamics she created among her cast of characters. I did find some parts of the story slow because while the stakes were definitely there, they didn't feeling high or urgent enough for me. And while their group antics were great, I often had a difficult time discerning between Bram's four friends. I know each of them will get their own book, however, so I'm sure that will become clearer as the series progresses.
Overall an enjoyable Historical Romance that veterans and newcomers to the genre can both enjoy.
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Overall an enjoyable Historical Romance that veterans and newcomers to the genre can both enjoy.
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 22, 2023
Barrister Bram Townsend is on his way to his monthly book club meeting with his friends, four fellow orphans from the Devenaugh Home for Destitute Boys, or as they like to call it, The School for Scoundrels. Bram is rehashing his interpretations of their latest book when he notices a woman standing on a parapet of the Blackfriars Bridge, thinking she means to harm herself, he immediately intervenes by grabbing the woman and pulling her down to safety – or so he assumes. But the lovely woman currently sprawled atop him had no qualms about setting him straight, she was in no danger, she was looking at the stars before he so rudely pulled her down. He apologizes for his mistake and insists on seeing her home, even though it will make him late, but it is the right thing to do and Bram always does the right thing! He hails a hackney after she fails to do so on her own, and they chat/argue on the way to her home, where she uses him to hide from her aunt and then shocks both of them by kissing him before running inside. Bram continues on his way, but is out of sorts and intrigued by his mystery woman. Something his friends pick up on right away and tease him mercilessly. He reminds himself that he doesn’t have time for distractions and needs to focus on his new goal of becoming a judge.
Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford can’t believe she kissed a stranger, a drop-dead gorgeous stranger, but still a stranger! She is never impetuous like that, nor is her head turned by a good-looking man. She reminds herself that she just needs to wait out another six months, at which time she will inherit the money left to her by her mother, and then she and her Aunt Flora can purchase a cottage where she can settle into spinsterhood and devote herself to her passion – astronomy. But her world is turned upside down when her father returns from their country estate with a huge surprise – he has fallen in love and married his new steward’s daughter, Alethea, an astonishingly beautiful woman, who is five years younger than Wilhelmina! A woman who is hellbent on seeing Wilhelmina married off as soon as possible, but who despite that is innately likable – much to Wilhelmina’s despair. Wilhelmina is sure she can hold out until her inheritance is in her control – but what she doesn’t count on is Alethea bidding on her mystery man at a fundraiser for the orphanage, or her idea to have Bram pretend to court Wilhelmina to drum up interest in her. She is mortified, but more than anything, she is thrilled to cross paths with him again. But despite the undeniable attraction that is between them, they make it clear that marriage is not an option for either of them and as long as there are no expectations (although kisses are acceptable), they will get along just fine and he will help her fend off any real suitors until she in control of her inheritance and she will help him meet the right people, which will help him in his quest to become a judge. Well, at least that was the plan…
This is a wonderful book, it is well written, nicely paced, and filled with amazing characters that you can’t help but root for! I LOVED this story and it is a perfect example of why I fell in love with Megan Frampton’s writing, it is filled with humor, as well as intelligent, thoughtful characters who are both likable and relatable. There is lots of witty banter, great secondary characters, hilarious inner monologues, believable character growth, Wilhelmina’s list of men she won’t marry, debates, steamyish love scenes, a surprising revelation, and finally a very endearing ending that paves the way for their HEA as well as an epilogue. This is the first book in a new series and it was so good that I can’t wait for the next book! I highly recommend this title, it is a fabulous story that was an absolute pleasure to read.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford can’t believe she kissed a stranger, a drop-dead gorgeous stranger, but still a stranger! She is never impetuous like that, nor is her head turned by a good-looking man. She reminds herself that she just needs to wait out another six months, at which time she will inherit the money left to her by her mother, and then she and her Aunt Flora can purchase a cottage where she can settle into spinsterhood and devote herself to her passion – astronomy. But her world is turned upside down when her father returns from their country estate with a huge surprise – he has fallen in love and married his new steward’s daughter, Alethea, an astonishingly beautiful woman, who is five years younger than Wilhelmina! A woman who is hellbent on seeing Wilhelmina married off as soon as possible, but who despite that is innately likable – much to Wilhelmina’s despair. Wilhelmina is sure she can hold out until her inheritance is in her control – but what she doesn’t count on is Alethea bidding on her mystery man at a fundraiser for the orphanage, or her idea to have Bram pretend to court Wilhelmina to drum up interest in her. She is mortified, but more than anything, she is thrilled to cross paths with him again. But despite the undeniable attraction that is between them, they make it clear that marriage is not an option for either of them and as long as there are no expectations (although kisses are acceptable), they will get along just fine and he will help her fend off any real suitors until she in control of her inheritance and she will help him meet the right people, which will help him in his quest to become a judge. Well, at least that was the plan…
This is a wonderful book, it is well written, nicely paced, and filled with amazing characters that you can’t help but root for! I LOVED this story and it is a perfect example of why I fell in love with Megan Frampton’s writing, it is filled with humor, as well as intelligent, thoughtful characters who are both likable and relatable. There is lots of witty banter, great secondary characters, hilarious inner monologues, believable character growth, Wilhelmina’s list of men she won’t marry, debates, steamyish love scenes, a surprising revelation, and finally a very endearing ending that paves the way for their HEA as well as an epilogue. This is the first book in a new series and it was so good that I can’t wait for the next book! I highly recommend this title, it is a fabulous story that was an absolute pleasure to read.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
January 28, 2023
5/5 stars
as Lady Gaga once said: talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before. ✨
I am completely shook and obsessed with them.
Bram using latin during sexy times, with Wilhelmina ripping his shirt being a queen.
as Lady Gaga once said: talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before. ✨
I am completely shook and obsessed with them.
Bram using latin during sexy times, with Wilhelmina ripping his shirt being a queen.
December 8, 2025
Yikes
If you're wondering how cringe a book can get, look no further.
It's pretty obvious this book is a 'roles reversed' trope
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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If you're wondering how cringe a book can get, look no further.
It's pretty obvious this book is a 'roles reversed' trope
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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January 1, 2023
While this story had what felt like a slow start, Bram and Wilhelmina's fake relationship was filled with found family, friendship and a steamy ending. Both main characters are certain that marriage isn't for them. But when her family decides she needs a push, Bram is convinced to pretend to court her to bring her more attention. His attention is the only one that she wants. For readers who love that "I only like you" and who like a fake relationship, but mostly who love a solid group of friends to carry through the series, you need this one.
This landed firmly at 3.5 stars for me. I liked it more than 3, but definitely enjoyed other 4 star books more.
This landed firmly at 3.5 stars for me. I liked it more than 3, but definitely enjoyed other 4 star books more.
Read
August 7, 2023RTC.
Buddy reading this with my love 💛
Buddy reading this with my love 💛
January 24, 2023
*𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘳𝘴.*
𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝑳𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝑰𝒏 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏
𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒍 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔
𝒃𝒚 𝑴𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒏 𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒏
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖/𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒:
This was charming, and funny, and refreshing! We have two very "scholarly" MCs with each their own subjects they pursue. One is a barrister with a book club full of friends (orphans he grew up with) and the other is an amateur astronomer who loves reading non-fiction. Wilhelmnina is a bit fiesty, uninterested in the social whirl, and just a little dominant in the bedroom. *wink wink* She's very open and also a bit grumpy sometimes! (This is totally grumpy/sunshine.) Bram is extremely fluffy and also wonderful and thoughtful! And he's got a slightly dirty mouth on him. These two totally balance each other out! And they're both virgins which can sometimes be super hot. (They did not disappoint.) Seeing them navigate a fake relationship as it progressed into something not-so-fake was absolutely magical! I enjoyed this so much. It was such an easy fun read. With truly unique characters. I also adore the cover (and the next cover!). I'm excited to see if they keep each cover themed with a different vivid color. I love it.
Thank you Avon for my advanced copy. I had such a fun time reading this!
Who doesn't want a book club of hot men!?
𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒:
•𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦
🔥🔥🔥/𝟓
•𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐡
❤❤❤❤/𝟓
•𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡
😆😆😆/𝟓
•𝐂𝐫𝐲
-/𝟓
"𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰. 𝘔𝘺 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘚𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘩. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸! 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴. 𝘔𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭! 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴. 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘦. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯 𝘐𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘵 @𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺_𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘱𝘵_𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺.
𝘈𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳: 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘥. 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺."
𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝑳𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝑰𝒏 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏
𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒍 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔
𝒃𝒚 𝑴𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒏 𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒏
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖/𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒:
This was charming, and funny, and refreshing! We have two very "scholarly" MCs with each their own subjects they pursue. One is a barrister with a book club full of friends (orphans he grew up with) and the other is an amateur astronomer who loves reading non-fiction. Wilhelmnina is a bit fiesty, uninterested in the social whirl, and just a little dominant in the bedroom. *wink wink* She's very open and also a bit grumpy sometimes! (This is totally grumpy/sunshine.) Bram is extremely fluffy and also wonderful and thoughtful! And he's got a slightly dirty mouth on him. These two totally balance each other out! And they're both virgins which can sometimes be super hot. (They did not disappoint.) Seeing them navigate a fake relationship as it progressed into something not-so-fake was absolutely magical! I enjoyed this so much. It was such an easy fun read. With truly unique characters. I also adore the cover (and the next cover!). I'm excited to see if they keep each cover themed with a different vivid color. I love it.
Thank you Avon for my advanced copy. I had such a fun time reading this!
Who doesn't want a book club of hot men!?
𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒:
•𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦
🔥🔥🔥/𝟓
•𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐡
❤❤❤❤/𝟓
•𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡
😆😆😆/𝟓
•𝐂𝐫𝐲
-/𝟓
"𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰. 𝘔𝘺 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘚𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘩. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸! 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴. 𝘔𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭! 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴. 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘦. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯 𝘐𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘵 @𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺_𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘱𝘵_𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺.
𝘈𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳: 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘥. 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺."
February 26, 2023
I love the start of a new series to settle into and this one is fantastic.
I love love loved Wilhelmina and Bram. They're both smart, ambitious people who love to argue. There was loads of chemistry from the start and I truly enjoyed reading their fake relationship turn into something more. And hello, Bram's friends. I can't wait to see more of all of you.
Plot wise, it was good. It was sort of weird that we didn't get any sort of information about why Althea was doing what she was, but she did (eventually) grow on me a bit. The friend group was delightful and I relished the scenes with all of them together. The last few chapters were so good (Aunt Flora, I'm looking at you) and the epilogue was perfect.
Overall, this was a great start to a new series and I can't wait to read more.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I love love loved Wilhelmina and Bram. They're both smart, ambitious people who love to argue. There was loads of chemistry from the start and I truly enjoyed reading their fake relationship turn into something more. And hello, Bram's friends. I can't wait to see more of all of you.
Plot wise, it was good. It was sort of weird that we didn't get any sort of information about why Althea was doing what she was, but she did (eventually) grow on me a bit. The friend group was delightful and I relished the scenes with all of them together. The last few chapters were so good (Aunt Flora, I'm looking at you) and the epilogue was perfect.
Overall, this was a great start to a new series and I can't wait to read more.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
January 11, 2023
Thank you #NetGalley for the advanced copy of #HerLessonsinPersuasion by Megan Frampton in exchange for an honest review.
This was the sweetest nerdy romance I've read in a while. I loved how Bram reminded Wilhelmina that he saw HER repeatedly. It was what she needed most to hear. The relationship between Bram and his found brothers is so sweet and loving that I immediately fell in love with all of them and can't wait for their books. I am 100% sold out for this series. Wilhelmina is like so many wallflowers that the wallflower in you will relate to her on several levels (especially as she sees that maybe she needs to widen her view) even if you aren't an astronomer. The nerd in you will love watching these two fall hopelessly in love with each other in their very own nerdy way. Let Wilhelmina and Bram help you see love in the stars.
This was the sweetest nerdy romance I've read in a while. I loved how Bram reminded Wilhelmina that he saw HER repeatedly. It was what she needed most to hear. The relationship between Bram and his found brothers is so sweet and loving that I immediately fell in love with all of them and can't wait for their books. I am 100% sold out for this series. Wilhelmina is like so many wallflowers that the wallflower in you will relate to her on several levels (especially as she sees that maybe she needs to widen her view) even if you aren't an astronomer. The nerd in you will love watching these two fall hopelessly in love with each other in their very own nerdy way. Let Wilhelmina and Bram help you see love in the stars.
August 13, 2022
An astronomer heroine. A barrister hero. Supportive, meddling friends. A kindly aunt. And an adorable dog named Dipper. Her Lessons in Persuasion strikes the perfect balance between humor, banter, and romance. As an astronomy nerd and a historical romance lover, I adored Bram and Wilhelmina’s story from beginning to end!
This is the first book in the School for Scoundrels series. It follows the journey of five orphaned friends who grew up at a home for destitute boys. They became successful through hard work and the support of their respective foster parents. They even have a book club! These characters are all deserving of their own books. I am already looking forward to it.
Bram Townsend doesn’t have time for love. He is a barrister with a strong sense of justice. He chose his profession because he has a talent for arguing with people. I love Bram’s character even though his friends call him “a stuffy pedant.” Bram is not the typical historical romance hero and that appealed to me. He is neither titled nor a rake. Fyi, he is a virgin! The illegitimacy of his birth weighs heavily on him. Thus, he cannot afford to be improper.
Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford is a fabulous character. I adore wallflower/spinster/bluestocking heroines. Wilhelmina is smart, independent, and adamantly opposed to marriage. Wilhelmina’s “Men I Do Not Wish to Marry” list is hilarious. She’s ambitious, impetuous, and delightfully awkward. Wilhelmina loves her dog, her books, and astronomy. She just wants to stare up at the stars. Girl, same! I love her relationship with her aunt. They have plans to move in together once Wilhelmina receives her inheritance.
So, Wilhelmina’s stepmother concocts a ludicrous plan to increase Wilhelmina’s marriage prospects. The plan entails Bram to pretend he is interested in Wilhelmina. If one gentleman is interested in her, surely other ‘eligible’ gentleman would notice her? Poor Wilhelmina! Anyway, Bram agrees because he wants to buy Wilhelmina time, so she can decide what she wants to do. However, the more time they spend together, the more their feelings grow. There are also those stolen kisses! While Bram discovers Wilhelmina’s fierce determination, Wilhelmina learns that Bram is not a controlling man. I really like how their relationship develops from attraction to friendship to love. Bram truly sees Wilhelmina. One of my favorite parts was when Wilhelmina expresses her disdain for fiction, Bram not only persuades Wilhelmina to read fiction that she will enjoy, but he also begins to read astronomy books.
Her Lessons in Persuasion is a charming, wonderfully crafted story with endearing secondary characters and infused with Megan Frampton’s customary wit and humor. I loved the clever astronomy references throughout the book. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in the School for Scoundrels series. It follows the journey of five orphaned friends who grew up at a home for destitute boys. They became successful through hard work and the support of their respective foster parents. They even have a book club! These characters are all deserving of their own books. I am already looking forward to it.
Bram Townsend doesn’t have time for love. He is a barrister with a strong sense of justice. He chose his profession because he has a talent for arguing with people. I love Bram’s character even though his friends call him “a stuffy pedant.” Bram is not the typical historical romance hero and that appealed to me. He is neither titled nor a rake. Fyi, he is a virgin! The illegitimacy of his birth weighs heavily on him. Thus, he cannot afford to be improper.
Lady Wilhelmina Bettesford is a fabulous character. I adore wallflower/spinster/bluestocking heroines. Wilhelmina is smart, independent, and adamantly opposed to marriage. Wilhelmina’s “Men I Do Not Wish to Marry” list is hilarious. She’s ambitious, impetuous, and delightfully awkward. Wilhelmina loves her dog, her books, and astronomy. She just wants to stare up at the stars. Girl, same! I love her relationship with her aunt. They have plans to move in together once Wilhelmina receives her inheritance.
So, Wilhelmina’s stepmother concocts a ludicrous plan to increase Wilhelmina’s marriage prospects. The plan entails Bram to pretend he is interested in Wilhelmina. If one gentleman is interested in her, surely other ‘eligible’ gentleman would notice her? Poor Wilhelmina! Anyway, Bram agrees because he wants to buy Wilhelmina time, so she can decide what she wants to do. However, the more time they spend together, the more their feelings grow. There are also those stolen kisses! While Bram discovers Wilhelmina’s fierce determination, Wilhelmina learns that Bram is not a controlling man. I really like how their relationship develops from attraction to friendship to love. Bram truly sees Wilhelmina. One of my favorite parts was when Wilhelmina expresses her disdain for fiction, Bram not only persuades Wilhelmina to read fiction that she will enjoy, but he also begins to read astronomy books.
Her Lessons in Persuasion is a charming, wonderfully crafted story with endearing secondary characters and infused with Megan Frampton’s customary wit and humor. I loved the clever astronomy references throughout the book. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2023
"Megan Frampton dazzles in the first book in her new series, A School for Scoundrels. Five gentlemen with unbreakable bonds navigate life—and love—in London. Perfect for fans of Sarah MacLean and anyone who loves BRIDGERTON!"
Wilhelmina and Bram are meant to be together. It seems that neither one of them want to marry to begin with but that soon changes.
Megan Frampton has knocked out the park with her new series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Wilhelmina and Bram are meant to be together. It seems that neither one of them want to marry to begin with but that soon changes.
Megan Frampton has knocked out the park with her new series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
February 1, 2023
This was a delightful start to a new series from Megan Frampton. Featuring a fake dating trope, this book tells the story of Wilhelmina and Bram. Wilhelmina is a female who wants to do nothing more than study the stars. She has a fascination with astronomy and dreams of living alone and spending her inheritance on a proper telescope. Her dreams are put on hold, however, when 6 months before she's about to inherit, her father suddenly remarries and his new wife is determined to marry Wilhelmina off. Enter Bram.
Bram is an orphan who doesn't believe love is for him. However, he cannot help himself with Wilhelmina. These two are a fun match. Each is just that step outside of "traditional" society and appreciates the differences in one another. I loved seeing Bram support Wilhelmina in all her goals and dreams. I appreciated Wilhelmina's acceptance of Bram and how she slowly becomes more and more open with him. It was a fun transformation to watch for both of them and had me cheering them on in the end.
If you are a fan of fake dating, a virgin hero, a forward-thinking heroine, and some mischief and found family, I think you will enjoy this one. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. The opinions here are my own.
Bram is an orphan who doesn't believe love is for him. However, he cannot help himself with Wilhelmina. These two are a fun match. Each is just that step outside of "traditional" society and appreciates the differences in one another. I loved seeing Bram support Wilhelmina in all her goals and dreams. I appreciated Wilhelmina's acceptance of Bram and how she slowly becomes more and more open with him. It was a fun transformation to watch for both of them and had me cheering them on in the end.
If you are a fan of fake dating, a virgin hero, a forward-thinking heroine, and some mischief and found family, I think you will enjoy this one. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. The opinions here are my own.
February 18, 2024
I’m sorry, but SHE ripped HIS shirt?? Pls. I’m feral over here.
Listen, Bram was so incredibly sweet and thoughtful. I truly loved him the entire time. And Wilhelmina?? Honestly gave me Eloise from Bridgerton vibes (i blame seeing the teaser for season 3 today for this comparison lol). Both of them are virgins and it made the smut THAT much sweeter to read honestly. Bram also has a book club with his friends and they were HYSTERICAL.
I genuinely had so much fun reading this. Definitely want to read the rest of this series now.
P. S. The audiobook is very hot 🥵
Listen, Bram was so incredibly sweet and thoughtful. I truly loved him the entire time. And Wilhelmina?? Honestly gave me Eloise from Bridgerton vibes (i blame seeing the teaser for season 3 today for this comparison lol). Both of them are virgins and it made the smut THAT much sweeter to read honestly. Bram also has a book club with his friends and they were HYSTERICAL.
I genuinely had so much fun reading this. Definitely want to read the rest of this series now.
P. S. The audiobook is very hot 🥵
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