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Scandal at the Savoy #1
Bookshop Cinderella
Fans of Lisa Kleypas and Julia Quinn will adore this opposites-attract romance featuring a dashing duke, a shy bookshop owner, and a wager that will change their lives forever.
Evie Harlow runs a quaint little bookshop in London, which is the biggest adventure an unmarried woman with no prospects could hope for. Until Maximillian Shaw, Duke of Westbourne, saunters into her shop with a proposition: to win a bet with his friends, he’ll turn her into the diamond of the season. The duke might be devilishly attractive, but Evie has no intention of accepting his ludicrous offer. When disaster strikes her shop, however, she’s left with little choice but to let herself be whisked into his high-society world.
Always happy to help a lady in distress, Max thinks he’s saving Evie from her dull spinster’s life. He’ll help her find a husband and congratulate himself on a job well done. But as shy Evie becomes the shining star he always knew she could be, she somehow steals his heart. And when her reputation is threatened, can Max convince her to choose a glittering, aristocratic life with him over the cozy comfort of her bookshop?
Evie Harlow runs a quaint little bookshop in London, which is the biggest adventure an unmarried woman with no prospects could hope for. Until Maximillian Shaw, Duke of Westbourne, saunters into her shop with a proposition: to win a bet with his friends, he’ll turn her into the diamond of the season. The duke might be devilishly attractive, but Evie has no intention of accepting his ludicrous offer. When disaster strikes her shop, however, she’s left with little choice but to let herself be whisked into his high-society world.
Always happy to help a lady in distress, Max thinks he’s saving Evie from her dull spinster’s life. He’ll help her find a husband and congratulate himself on a job well done. But as shy Evie becomes the shining star he always knew she could be, she somehow steals his heart. And when her reputation is threatened, can Max convince her to choose a glittering, aristocratic life with him over the cozy comfort of her bookshop?
323 pages, Paperback
First published June 20, 2023
199 people are currently reading
6320 people want to read
About the author
Laura Lee Guhrke
41 books1,813 followersFrom the publication of her very first historical romance, Laura Lee Guhrke has received numerous honors and critical acclaim for her novels and her writing style. She has been honored with the most prestigious award of romance fiction, the Romance Writers of America Rita Award, and she has received additional awards from Romantic Times and All About Romance. Romantic Times has proclaimed her, “One of the most natural voices in historical romance to be found today”. Her books routinely hit the USA Today Bestseller List, and Guilty Pleasures has been honored with the Romantic Times Award for Best European Historical Romance of 2004. Among her publishing credits are twelve historical romances, including her latest, And Then He Kissed Her, now available from Avon Books.
Laura is currently hard at work on her thirteenth historical romance for Avon Books. She has also written articles for various publications, including the Romance Writers Report, The British Weekly , and the Irish-American Press.
Laura is currently hard at work on her thirteenth historical romance for Avon Books. She has also written articles for various publications, including the Romance Writers Report, The British Weekly , and the Irish-American Press.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 590 reviews
March 14, 2023
Oh, how I love this Victorian-era twist on Cinderella!
Our sweet heroine is smart, owns her own business, contemplates wearing trousers, and being absolutely ok with making her own way as a proverbial 'spinster'. Rather than dashing off to marry some dusty chap just because she needs to be married in the eyes of society, she waits for love!
THOUGHTS:
- Not often that we have a con man element in regency romances and I love that!
- This is a fun take on the era when it started to become more socially acceptable to marry outside one's social/socioeconomic class and I'm ALL for those types of English romances!!
**Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for this advance reader copy. I received this book for free but all thoughts are my own. - SLR 🖤
Our sweet heroine is smart, owns her own business, contemplates wearing trousers, and being absolutely ok with making her own way as a proverbial 'spinster'. Rather than dashing off to marry some dusty chap just because she needs to be married in the eyes of society, she waits for love!
THOUGHTS:
- Not often that we have a con man element in regency romances and I love that!
- This is a fun take on the era when it started to become more socially acceptable to marry outside one's social/socioeconomic class and I'm ALL for those types of English romances!!
**Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for this advance reader copy. I received this book for free but all thoughts are my own. - SLR 🖤
July 8, 2023
Read the last third again bc #speaknowpairings and OOF it hit so rounding up to five stars 💁♀️
✨She’s All That but make it historical✨
I’m a huge fan of the movie She’s All That, and Bookshop Cinderella did have those vibes, especially as the book caught its stride. Max frustrated me a bit more than Zach Siler—maybe the Freddie Prinze Jr. effect is just THAT strong—BUT the bet was revealed to Evie right away so that was a breath of fresh air!
I ended up liking this one more than I thought after a rocky beginning, but I wanted a bit more from the ending. It took me longer to warm up to Max than to Evie, because she was mainly just a relatable queen. I was annoyed with him for a time, but overall I liked Max a lot by the end. There wasn’t an epilogue and it made me SAD because I was finally invested in their relationship and then it just ended!! I hope to see more of them in book two. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the last chapter a lot, but give me a glimpse into their future!!
I was worried about how the Rory character would be handled, since I’m not a fan of one character thinking they’re in love with someone else…but I think it was minimal angst here. She saw pretty quick that he was a foolish peacock with no care for her and I love her for it. Max was also attempting to court someone else and while that too scared me at the beginning, I enjoyed how Max came out of it completely invested in Evie.
Overall, Bookshop Cinderella was a pretty light and sweet romance once it got going. This was my first book by the author, but it’s evident that Guhrke is a seasoned writer, as the style was charming. I don’t think it was entirely memorable, but I will read the next book in the series! I think you’ll have a good time with it if you like My Fair Ladyish etiquette lessons, opposites attract, and bookish settings.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5 🌶️🌶️*/5
*We got one scene that I thought was well written and pretty good! We got the iconic “statues aren’t THAT big” line 😌
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
✨She’s All That but make it historical✨
I’m a huge fan of the movie She’s All That, and Bookshop Cinderella did have those vibes, especially as the book caught its stride. Max frustrated me a bit more than Zach Siler—maybe the Freddie Prinze Jr. effect is just THAT strong—BUT the bet was revealed to Evie right away so that was a breath of fresh air!
I ended up liking this one more than I thought after a rocky beginning, but I wanted a bit more from the ending. It took me longer to warm up to Max than to Evie, because she was mainly just a relatable queen. I was annoyed with him for a time, but overall I liked Max a lot by the end. There wasn’t an epilogue and it made me SAD because I was finally invested in their relationship and then it just ended!! I hope to see more of them in book two. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the last chapter a lot, but give me a glimpse into their future!!
I was worried about how the Rory character would be handled, since I’m not a fan of one character thinking they’re in love with someone else…but I think it was minimal angst here. She saw pretty quick that he was a foolish peacock with no care for her and I love her for it. Max was also attempting to court someone else and while that too scared me at the beginning, I enjoyed how Max came out of it completely invested in Evie.
Overall, Bookshop Cinderella was a pretty light and sweet romance once it got going. This was my first book by the author, but it’s evident that Guhrke is a seasoned writer, as the style was charming. I don’t think it was entirely memorable, but I will read the next book in the series! I think you’ll have a good time with it if you like My Fair Ladyish etiquette lessons, opposites attract, and bookish settings.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5 🌶️🌶️*/5
*We got one scene that I thought was well written and pretty good! We got the iconic “statues aren’t THAT big” line 😌
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
June 18, 2023
Bookshop Cinderella by Laura Lee Guhrke
Historical romance.
Evie Harlow runs a small bookstore that specializes in rare first editions. After a bit of a drunken night, Max Shaw, the Duke of Westbourne comes into the bookstore with a proposition for Evie. He’s bet that she will be the belle of the ball at a particular party and that her dance card will be full. Evie has no intention of accepting his offer of staying at the Savoy Hotel for the season, fully paid wardrobe and every entertainment she would like to attend. Until her boiler erupts in the apartment above the bookshop and floods the building and she has no choice but to evacuate to the Savoy and play the part of socialite for the season.
The repartee between Evie and Max is clever and often amusing. When the dancing lessons prove too much for him, poor innocent Evie is thrown into a world of longing she has heretofore missed.
Heretofore: a word used often in historical romances and legal briefs. I’m not even sure I used it correctly, but it amuses me to include it in my review.
I found her stubbornness and intelligence appealing. And who doesn’t love a Duke that will spend lavishly on a woman, keep her safe and ultimately wants her happiness?
“Sometimes, he thought in exasperation as he started down the street, Evie really was the most unaccountable girl.”
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and the publisher.
Historical romance.
Evie Harlow runs a small bookstore that specializes in rare first editions. After a bit of a drunken night, Max Shaw, the Duke of Westbourne comes into the bookstore with a proposition for Evie. He’s bet that she will be the belle of the ball at a particular party and that her dance card will be full. Evie has no intention of accepting his offer of staying at the Savoy Hotel for the season, fully paid wardrobe and every entertainment she would like to attend. Until her boiler erupts in the apartment above the bookshop and floods the building and she has no choice but to evacuate to the Savoy and play the part of socialite for the season.
The repartee between Evie and Max is clever and often amusing. When the dancing lessons prove too much for him, poor innocent Evie is thrown into a world of longing she has heretofore missed.
Heretofore: a word used often in historical romances and legal briefs. I’m not even sure I used it correctly, but it amuses me to include it in my review.
I found her stubbornness and intelligence appealing. And who doesn’t love a Duke that will spend lavishly on a woman, keep her safe and ultimately wants her happiness?
“Sometimes, he thought in exasperation as he started down the street, Evie really was the most unaccountable girl.”
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and the publisher.
June 24, 2023
We've been waiting for a new Laura Lee Guhrke for a while, and Bookshop Cinderella does not disappoint! We just really love the combo of LLG’s understated writing and late-Victorian/early-Edwardian settings. Give us telephones, typewriters, hotels, suffragists, broadening social mores, and professional women PLUS all the HR goodness of dukes who need heirs, the ton, the Season, etc.!
So this is your basic My Fair Lady plot: Max makes a bet with some feckless younger gentlemen (he makes it very clear that they are not his friends!) that he can turn Evie, prim and proper bookshop proprietor, into a social success. What did we particularly love about this makeover wager? First of all, Max only makes the bet because he's a little older and a little wiser than his companions, and he knows a beautiful woman when he sees one. He also just can't keep his mouth shut when they start ridiculing her. Second of all, Max never considers trying to trick Evie into going along with his plans. He tells her not only about the wager, but about all of the background and conversations. Finally, we thought it was great that Evie wasn't 100% convinced by Max's argument - but when her bookshop has to close for renovations due to a minor disaster, she doesn't have anything better to do, anyway.
The book is well-paced and moves briskly. Every time the relationship conflict verged into romance miscommunication LLG pulled it right back out - you get just the perfect amount! Also, the grand gesture was so much fun! It was the cherry on top of on an already-perfect book.
We are so looking forward to this series, which seems like it will share the same setting: the Savoy Hotel. (We might have to look into plane tickets to London just to have a drink at the American Bar in the Savoy...)
39-Word Summaries:
Meg: Drinking scandalous American cocktails will get a duke into all kinds of trouble. Like, for example, making a bet with his prospective fiancee’s scoundrel younger brother that will only lead to close proximity with a suspiciously sexy wallflower bookseller…
Laine: Pygmalion/ My Fair Lady/ She's All That but he's the world's sexiest blond Duke and she owns a bookshop and his motives are mostly altruistic? Dance lessons are required, and maybe they didn't need champagne but... they definitely did.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
So this is your basic My Fair Lady plot: Max makes a bet with some feckless younger gentlemen (he makes it very clear that they are not his friends!) that he can turn Evie, prim and proper bookshop proprietor, into a social success. What did we particularly love about this makeover wager? First of all, Max only makes the bet because he's a little older and a little wiser than his companions, and he knows a beautiful woman when he sees one. He also just can't keep his mouth shut when they start ridiculing her. Second of all, Max never considers trying to trick Evie into going along with his plans. He tells her not only about the wager, but about all of the background and conversations. Finally, we thought it was great that Evie wasn't 100% convinced by Max's argument - but when her bookshop has to close for renovations due to a minor disaster, she doesn't have anything better to do, anyway.
The book is well-paced and moves briskly. Every time the relationship conflict verged into romance miscommunication LLG pulled it right back out - you get just the perfect amount! Also, the grand gesture was so much fun! It was the cherry on top of on an already-perfect book.
We are so looking forward to this series, which seems like it will share the same setting: the Savoy Hotel. (We might have to look into plane tickets to London just to have a drink at the American Bar in the Savoy...)
39-Word Summaries:
Meg: Drinking scandalous American cocktails will get a duke into all kinds of trouble. Like, for example, making a bet with his prospective fiancee’s scoundrel younger brother that will only lead to close proximity with a suspiciously sexy wallflower bookseller…
Laine: Pygmalion/ My Fair Lady/ She's All That but he's the world's sexiest blond Duke and she owns a bookshop and his motives are mostly altruistic? Dance lessons are required, and maybe they didn't need champagne but... they definitely did.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
January 12, 2026
Quite a nice story, with a Cinderella-type heroine and her handsome prince (duke, actually!) Set mainly in London in the late Victorian era (1890s), so there are 'modern' aspects such as electricity, lifts, and the occasional motor car.
Evie inherited a rare bookshop, and has been quietly successful in running her own business. She attended a posh finishing school, but was bullied there by some of the upper-crust girls who thought her background was beneath them (like the evil stepsisters of Cinderella, I guess). Evie lacks self-confidence in some ways, and underestimates her own likability and beauty. She lives very modestly, and does fit well into the Cinderella character type.
Max is a duke, and couldn't be more removed from Evie's humble middle-class background and lifestyle. Without revealing spoilers, Max takes on Evie's transformation into a high society woman. They fall in love of course, although it is quite a slow-burn, and I wouldn't have minded some more overt romance earlier in the book. Their eventual getting together and accepting of their mutual feelings is nicely done when it finally does happen though. I enjoyed the ending section of the book.
Two likable lead characters, both with integrity and both with some uncertainties due to their pasts. The class difference was very clear, but by this point in time, almost the start of the twentieth century, it is believable that they could marry without too much scandal, and Evie could learn to be a duchess. A romantic and enjoyable read.
Reread January 2026 for HRBC BOTM: Fairy-tale inspired trope.
Evie inherited a rare bookshop, and has been quietly successful in running her own business. She attended a posh finishing school, but was bullied there by some of the upper-crust girls who thought her background was beneath them (like the evil stepsisters of Cinderella, I guess). Evie lacks self-confidence in some ways, and underestimates her own likability and beauty. She lives very modestly, and does fit well into the Cinderella character type.
Max is a duke, and couldn't be more removed from Evie's humble middle-class background and lifestyle. Without revealing spoilers, Max takes on Evie's transformation into a high society woman. They fall in love of course, although it is quite a slow-burn, and I wouldn't have minded some more overt romance earlier in the book. Their eventual getting together and accepting of their mutual feelings is nicely done when it finally does happen though. I enjoyed the ending section of the book.
Two likable lead characters, both with integrity and both with some uncertainties due to their pasts. The class difference was very clear, but by this point in time, almost the start of the twentieth century, it is believable that they could marry without too much scandal, and Evie could learn to be a duchess. A romantic and enjoyable read.
Reread January 2026 for HRBC BOTM: Fairy-tale inspired trope.
May 17, 2023
Some of my favorite books were written by this author. This is not one of them. Others have compared this to She's All That. Except the FMC knows about the bet from the get go aaaaaand there goes all the tension. Basically this is a really long conversation between two people who are exceedingly polite and well, boring AF. The hero, can't even remember his name he was so unremarkable, is nice and polite and has the personality of a wood plank. That being said this is very well written and the setting Edwardian times (I think) was unique and well researched and this would be a great read for anyone who loves a low angst, low conflict read. But I like my heroes with an edge and my romance with a big helping of sexual and romantic tension. I didn't get any of that here.
⭐⭐💫/5
🔥/5
⭐⭐💫/5
🔥/5
June 23, 2023
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I enjoyed this book! It has been a while since I last picked up a historical romance and this book was a great opportunity to jump back into the genre. It was so easy to slip inside this delightful story full of characters that came alive on the page. I quickly became invested in Evie and Max’s well-being and couldn’t wait to see them find their happily ever after.
I liked Evie and Max a lot. Evie has spent her life working and doesn’t expect too much out of life. Max is a Duke but he sees something in Evie and makes a wager that if given the time he can turn her into the most sought-after lady at the ball. I thought that the chemistry between these two was incredibly well done and I couldn’t wait to see things work out for them. A few times, I was worried about how they might deal with the things happening in their lives that were out of their control.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of historical romance. I thought this was a remarkable story full of great characters and just the right amount of swoon-worthy moments. I cannot wait to read more of this series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Forever.
I enjoyed this book! It has been a while since I last picked up a historical romance and this book was a great opportunity to jump back into the genre. It was so easy to slip inside this delightful story full of characters that came alive on the page. I quickly became invested in Evie and Max’s well-being and couldn’t wait to see them find their happily ever after.
I liked Evie and Max a lot. Evie has spent her life working and doesn’t expect too much out of life. Max is a Duke but he sees something in Evie and makes a wager that if given the time he can turn her into the most sought-after lady at the ball. I thought that the chemistry between these two was incredibly well done and I couldn’t wait to see things work out for them. A few times, I was worried about how they might deal with the things happening in their lives that were out of their control.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of historical romance. I thought this was a remarkable story full of great characters and just the right amount of swoon-worthy moments. I cannot wait to read more of this series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Forever.
January 6, 2026
Read: 1/5/26
Setting: 1896 England
Trope: fairytale, class differences, second chances
3.5 stars Jan BOTM
plot: Max takes a bet that he can turn plain Evie into a shining star for one night. He mainly agrees to the bet because he believes Evie could be beautiful, if she only had some rest and relaxation.
Evie agrees to Max's proposal for two reasons. #1. Her shop just flooded and she has nowhere to go until it's repaired. #2. She wants to prove to herself and to those boys that she can be more than some old spinster.
Over the weeks, these two grow close and soon an attraction grows. Still, both know nothing can come of it. Their class differences and pasts keep any relationship between them impossible.
So, how will these two get their HEA? The author finds a clever way that will bring a smile to your face.
Conclusion:
The musical, "My Fair Lady", was a staple in my house and I love it, just not in my hr books. So, i had low expectations for this book. Luckily, this h has attended finishing school, so there was no teaching scenes needed. TG!🙏 Instead, the overworked h takes a much needed vacation. This changed the whole tone of the book. I adored Evie and loved watching her self confidence flourish. Her relationship with Max was great. It was delightful watching their friendship grow to real love. This was a sweet romance!
Setting: 1896 England
Trope: fairytale, class differences, second chances
3.5 stars Jan BOTM
plot: Max takes a bet that he can turn plain Evie into a shining star for one night. He mainly agrees to the bet because he believes Evie could be beautiful, if she only had some rest and relaxation.
Evie agrees to Max's proposal for two reasons. #1. Her shop just flooded and she has nowhere to go until it's repaired. #2. She wants to prove to herself and to those boys that she can be more than some old spinster.
Over the weeks, these two grow close and soon an attraction grows. Still, both know nothing can come of it. Their class differences and pasts keep any relationship between them impossible.
So, how will these two get their HEA? The author finds a clever way that will bring a smile to your face.
Conclusion:
The musical, "My Fair Lady", was a staple in my house and I love it, just not in my hr books. So, i had low expectations for this book. Luckily, this h has attended finishing school, so there was no teaching scenes needed. TG!🙏 Instead, the overworked h takes a much needed vacation. This changed the whole tone of the book. I adored Evie and loved watching her self confidence flourish. Her relationship with Max was great. It was delightful watching their friendship grow to real love. This was a sweet romance!
June 21, 2023
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction
Bookshop Cinderella is the first book in the newest series by Laura Lee Guhrke. It has been so long since I have read anything by this author, and I will admit that I was drawn to this one when I saw the title and the cover. It had me super intrigued and I have such a soft spot for any type of retelling. So if you love cinderella retellings, then I do recommend this one. Its a loose retelling though but still a fun way that the author implemented this book and actually had some healthy communication that was implemented and I really respect that this author was willing to go that route for sure. What we see in this one here though is a fun bet, a bookish heroine, class differences and some pining from the hero. So definitely has many elements that will appeal to many readers, and if you love historical romance, I highly recommend this one. It had such a solid balanced amount of factors that we all love to see in a historical romance and Gurhke really delivered on this one for me.
Summary
Evie Harlow runs a bookshop in London, and she runs her own business that her father left to her and she was able to get her family out of debt and be independent and fight for women’s voting rights. She enjoys her life but she also aches for something more and she doesn’t realize what she was missing until she meets Maximillian, the Duke of Westbourne. From their first meeting, their was a spark of attraction between Evie and Max. When Max runs into some acquaintances from school, claiming that no one in the Ton would have Evie, Max knows that there is a beauty that shines from within and is determined to show these shallow men what one can do if they have the will and determination. So he makes a bet with them that he can turn her into a victorian era Cinderella and that she will have a full dance card at the upcoming ball. Immediately Max goes to Evie and they join forces to win this bet and for Evie to have an adventure she never imagined for herself. What starts out as a playful bet, turns into something deeper when Max and Evie find a love neither expected to find…
My Outlook
Bookshop Cinderella was such a charming and lively romance that left me with a smile from beginning to the very end. I absolutely couldn’t get enough of these two. Seeing their interactions I was on the edge of my seat. I became quickly endeared by both of these characters. They both have such solid growth in this story and truly the author did a splendid job in focusing on their connection. We truly see what they have together and that spark of interest that begins to bloom the moment they are together more …..and more. Max may be a Duke, but he has suffered heartache, loss and betrayal. He knows that he needs to have an heir, but is still hurt by losing his previous wife who also spurned his heart and hasn’t been able to allow himself to open to anyone else until he meets Evie who shows him what loving someone and being loved in return can be like and that its worth fighting for. Evie on other hand, is more apprehensive of the class differences between them. She isn’t afraid of love but she knows that loving Max will come at a price, the price of never being together. She knows that they are too different and their lives could never be together and she can’t see herself being “duchess” material. But when Max comes to the point of realizing he can’t live without Evie, he will do whatever it takes to win Evie’s heart and mind. We see such determination from the hero to fight for his girl and seeing this sweet pining was so adorable. Even before he realizes that he loves her, he builds a connection with her and gives her these thoughtful gifts that are so endearing. I really appreciated seeing the interactions between Max and Evie. Their banter was so delightful and had me laughing all over the place. The pacing is steady and keeps you interested. Sometimes this author can be a hit or miss on the pacing, but this is so easy to read for a historical and I highly recommend this one. And if you are curious about the retelling, it really is just the aspect of seeing the change of appearance. So its probably closer to a Pygmalion retelling over a Cinderella one. But still wonderful in whichever way you look at it. I am very curious to see where the author will be taking this series moving forward and very thrilled for book 2.
There wasn’t too much I struggled with this one to be honest. The heroine was a bit frustrating in always pushing the hero away. I understand why she was, but it did stretch out a bit longer than I felt was fully necessary. But I did appreciate the heroine fighting for the hero in the end. That was quite refreshing to see, as its not very common.
Overall View
Bookshop Cinderella is a endearing and witty historical that delivered an impactful story that will capture the readers attention from the very beginning. You will be charmed by the humor, the easy way of reading it and the strong connection these two build between them! A SATISFYING GEM!
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 4
World Building:4
Cover:5
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4
Steam:3
Heart & Feels:4
Ending:5
Overall View: 4
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction
Bookshop Cinderella is the first book in the newest series by Laura Lee Guhrke. It has been so long since I have read anything by this author, and I will admit that I was drawn to this one when I saw the title and the cover. It had me super intrigued and I have such a soft spot for any type of retelling. So if you love cinderella retellings, then I do recommend this one. Its a loose retelling though but still a fun way that the author implemented this book and actually had some healthy communication that was implemented and I really respect that this author was willing to go that route for sure. What we see in this one here though is a fun bet, a bookish heroine, class differences and some pining from the hero. So definitely has many elements that will appeal to many readers, and if you love historical romance, I highly recommend this one. It had such a solid balanced amount of factors that we all love to see in a historical romance and Gurhke really delivered on this one for me.
Summary
Evie Harlow runs a bookshop in London, and she runs her own business that her father left to her and she was able to get her family out of debt and be independent and fight for women’s voting rights. She enjoys her life but she also aches for something more and she doesn’t realize what she was missing until she meets Maximillian, the Duke of Westbourne. From their first meeting, their was a spark of attraction between Evie and Max. When Max runs into some acquaintances from school, claiming that no one in the Ton would have Evie, Max knows that there is a beauty that shines from within and is determined to show these shallow men what one can do if they have the will and determination. So he makes a bet with them that he can turn her into a victorian era Cinderella and that she will have a full dance card at the upcoming ball. Immediately Max goes to Evie and they join forces to win this bet and for Evie to have an adventure she never imagined for herself. What starts out as a playful bet, turns into something deeper when Max and Evie find a love neither expected to find…
My Outlook
Bookshop Cinderella was such a charming and lively romance that left me with a smile from beginning to the very end. I absolutely couldn’t get enough of these two. Seeing their interactions I was on the edge of my seat. I became quickly endeared by both of these characters. They both have such solid growth in this story and truly the author did a splendid job in focusing on their connection. We truly see what they have together and that spark of interest that begins to bloom the moment they are together more …..and more. Max may be a Duke, but he has suffered heartache, loss and betrayal. He knows that he needs to have an heir, but is still hurt by losing his previous wife who also spurned his heart and hasn’t been able to allow himself to open to anyone else until he meets Evie who shows him what loving someone and being loved in return can be like and that its worth fighting for. Evie on other hand, is more apprehensive of the class differences between them. She isn’t afraid of love but she knows that loving Max will come at a price, the price of never being together. She knows that they are too different and their lives could never be together and she can’t see herself being “duchess” material. But when Max comes to the point of realizing he can’t live without Evie, he will do whatever it takes to win Evie’s heart and mind. We see such determination from the hero to fight for his girl and seeing this sweet pining was so adorable. Even before he realizes that he loves her, he builds a connection with her and gives her these thoughtful gifts that are so endearing. I really appreciated seeing the interactions between Max and Evie. Their banter was so delightful and had me laughing all over the place. The pacing is steady and keeps you interested. Sometimes this author can be a hit or miss on the pacing, but this is so easy to read for a historical and I highly recommend this one. And if you are curious about the retelling, it really is just the aspect of seeing the change of appearance. So its probably closer to a Pygmalion retelling over a Cinderella one. But still wonderful in whichever way you look at it. I am very curious to see where the author will be taking this series moving forward and very thrilled for book 2.
There wasn’t too much I struggled with this one to be honest. The heroine was a bit frustrating in always pushing the hero away. I understand why she was, but it did stretch out a bit longer than I felt was fully necessary. But I did appreciate the heroine fighting for the hero in the end. That was quite refreshing to see, as its not very common.
Overall View
Bookshop Cinderella is a endearing and witty historical that delivered an impactful story that will capture the readers attention from the very beginning. You will be charmed by the humor, the easy way of reading it and the strong connection these two build between them! A SATISFYING GEM!
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 4
World Building:4
Cover:5
Hero: 4
Heroine: 4
Steam:3
Heart & Feels:4
Ending:5
Overall View: 4
March 3, 2024
3 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise and the H
The Not-So-Good: The lack of emotional connection for the conflict.
The Bad: The ending.
Overall: This was cute for what it was, but not going on my favorites shelf. I liked the progression of feelings and the friendship-to-more aspect of the book, but I think the conflict could have evoked more emotions. I also was extremely disappointed in the ending. Overall, I would say this was middle of the road 3 "just okay" stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Evie and Max's story. Max is a Duke and he is in London for the season trying to find good duchess material to marry. The lady he has his sites set on asks for him to look after your younger brother. He ends up with a wager with the brother about Evie being a desirable lady at a ball after he hears him and his friend talking bad about the bookshop keeper. Max convinces Evie to take a holiday from work and to help him win the bet and they become fast friends. Eventually that friendship turns into more and there are some funny moments, some past baggage they have to work though, and some tension...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Evie and Max (and a side character) in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they become friends-to-more.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Max. I liked him more than the h. I appreciated how he understood his traumatic past but still couldn't help but fall for the h.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Evie. I liked her independence and how she didn't get caught up in the flash of nobility, but I didn't like how she pushed the H away.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and one scene -- and that was not so much it took away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes, but not technically
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends super abruptly and left me disappointed. Why not I would call this a HFN ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise and the H
The Not-So-Good: The lack of emotional connection for the conflict.
The Bad: The ending.
Overall: This was cute for what it was, but not going on my favorites shelf. I liked the progression of feelings and the friendship-to-more aspect of the book, but I think the conflict could have evoked more emotions. I also was extremely disappointed in the ending. Overall, I would say this was middle of the road 3 "just okay" stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Evie and Max's story. Max is a Duke and he is in London for the season trying to find good duchess material to marry. The lady he has his sites set on asks for him to look after your younger brother. He ends up with a wager with the brother about Evie being a desirable lady at a ball after he hears him and his friend talking bad about the bookshop keeper. Max convinces Evie to take a holiday from work and to help him win the bet and they become fast friends. Eventually that friendship turns into more and there are some funny moments, some past baggage they have to work though, and some tension...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Evie and Max (and a side character) in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they become friends-to-more.
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Max. I liked him more than the h. I appreciated how he understood his traumatic past but still couldn't help but fall for the h.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Evie. I liked her independence and how she didn't get caught up in the flash of nobility, but I didn't like how she pushed the H away.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and one scene -- and that was not so much it took away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes, but not technically
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends super abruptly and left me disappointed. Why not I would call this a HFN ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
April 27, 2023
When Miss Evie Harlow took over her deceased father's bookshop in London, the work helped her cope with her grief...now her life is feeling a bit monotonous. Then Maximillian Shaw, Duke of Westbourne, enters her life, bringing the unlikeliest of propositions: to win a bet with his friends, he’ll play Fairy Godfather and turn her into the belle of the ball. Evie has no intention of accepting his ludicrous offer until a disaster strikes her shop, leaving her with little choice.
This is the first book in the new Scandal at the Savoy series. I have been waiting for Laura Lee Guhrke's return from hiatus, and this story was worth it! I read it in a single day.
Evie's bookshop lets her live life on her own terms, not beholden to family; but to make ends meet she does extra research for clients. Max enters Evie's shop on behalf of his cousin, for whom Evie was providing information for a benefit event. When Max's acquaintances insult Evie, he comes to her defense, sparking the outlandish wager. Unlike other similar retellings, Max puts the plan to Evie, suggesting she let him foot the bill and treat it as a holiday from her repetitious routine.
I was quickly hooked into their story and really enjoyed Max and Evie's interactions. I liked how Max nudged Evie out of her comfort zone, and Evie helped Max move on from his past.
Tropes: Working Heroine, Widower, Class Difference, Fairytale Retelling-ish/Rags-to-Riches, Lessons
Steam: 1 (one full scene and one interrupted scene)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the first book in the new Scandal at the Savoy series. I have been waiting for Laura Lee Guhrke's return from hiatus, and this story was worth it! I read it in a single day.
Evie's bookshop lets her live life on her own terms, not beholden to family; but to make ends meet she does extra research for clients. Max enters Evie's shop on behalf of his cousin, for whom Evie was providing information for a benefit event. When Max's acquaintances insult Evie, he comes to her defense, sparking the outlandish wager. Unlike other similar retellings, Max puts the plan to Evie, suggesting she let him foot the bill and treat it as a holiday from her repetitious routine.
I was quickly hooked into their story and really enjoyed Max and Evie's interactions. I liked how Max nudged Evie out of her comfort zone, and Evie helped Max move on from his past.
Tropes: Working Heroine, Widower, Class Difference, Fairytale Retelling-ish/Rags-to-Riches, Lessons
Steam: 1 (one full scene and one interrupted scene)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
August 9, 2023
I loved this twist on the Cinderella trope,although it felt more like My Fair Lady to me. So much so that I couldn't help picturing Audrey Hepburn as Evie.
Evie is the spinster bookshop owner, and Max is a Duke hoping to find his perfect Duchess this season.
They meet while Max is at her bookshop doing a favor for his cousin. He brings along some young friends that he's keeping an eye on, and they are rude and disrespectful towards Evie.
After the altercation, Max bets them that he can turn Evie into a beauty and a success at his ball coming up later in the season. Evie ends up agreeing to the plan, and she gets the makeover of a lifetime.
I loved that Evie was a strong, smart, and bookish heroine and that Max didn't need the makeover to see her true worth.
This was my first book by this author, and I'm looking forward to reading more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Evie is the spinster bookshop owner, and Max is a Duke hoping to find his perfect Duchess this season.
They meet while Max is at her bookshop doing a favor for his cousin. He brings along some young friends that he's keeping an eye on, and they are rude and disrespectful towards Evie.
After the altercation, Max bets them that he can turn Evie into a beauty and a success at his ball coming up later in the season. Evie ends up agreeing to the plan, and she gets the makeover of a lifetime.
I loved that Evie was a strong, smart, and bookish heroine and that Max didn't need the makeover to see her true worth.
This was my first book by this author, and I'm looking forward to reading more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 28, 2025
4,5
I also realized something else: that none of the disparaging things I’d been thinking about myself were facts. They were simply opinions, and opinions varied. They could also be changed. I might be plain to some and pretty to others. I might not be the most accomplished dancer, but I’m not the worst either. And I might not have been born to be a duchess, but I realized there was no reason I couldn’t be one if I wanted to.
Lovely 🩷 and just the historical romance I was looking for! It's a pretty simple and traditional plot, but it's done in a way that's enjoyable, entertaining, cute and swept me into the story making me smile all the time; the characters are very likable and the romance is great, I was feeling it and I loved them together, it has fun banter and great chemistry.
I simply enjoyed it very much and because of all of this I'm being generous and rounding it to 5 stars.
I also realized something else: that none of the disparaging things I’d been thinking about myself were facts. They were simply opinions, and opinions varied. They could also be changed. I might be plain to some and pretty to others. I might not be the most accomplished dancer, but I’m not the worst either. And I might not have been born to be a duchess, but I realized there was no reason I couldn’t be one if I wanted to.
Lovely 🩷 and just the historical romance I was looking for! It's a pretty simple and traditional plot, but it's done in a way that's enjoyable, entertaining, cute and swept me into the story making me smile all the time; the characters are very likable and the romance is great, I was feeling it and I loved them together, it has fun banter and great chemistry.
I simply enjoyed it very much and because of all of this I'm being generous and rounding it to 5 stars.
no-way-jose
June 23, 2023Note to self: not your fav type of leading characters. Hero seemed like a nice guy with no edge to him, and from the first two chapters that I read, the heroine was an idiot.
Everyone and their brother said this book was along the lines of the movie She’s All That. I had to Google it, it’s a rom-com from 1999, totally don’t remember what it was about 24 yrs later…
Anyway, in the first, and only scene, that I read… the heroine is in her book shop, making tea to bring over to share with the lone customer, her childhood friend who she’s now decided she’s enamored with. She’s not paying attention while preparing the tea and was adding way too much sugar, her assistant keeps trying to tell her to stop adding sugar, she keeps interrupting the assistant so he can’t finish his sentences, she ends up serving the overly sweet tea, the guy almost chokes on it… it was supposed to be funny. I’m not a fan of stupid preventable things happening just for laughs. Next thing that happens, our hero walks in to the bookstore and gets in line behind the childhood friend that’s choking on the sweet tea. He’s standing there waiting for his turn at the cash register, and the heroine just carries on flirting and drinking tea instead of helping her customers waiting in line (that are standing right in front of her). Like put the tea cup down, take care of the waiting customer, then go back to flirting and chit chat. It was just silly, and I immediately disliked her as a character.
Everyone and their brother said this book was along the lines of the movie She’s All That. I had to Google it, it’s a rom-com from 1999, totally don’t remember what it was about 24 yrs later…
Anyway, in the first, and only scene, that I read… the heroine is in her book shop, making tea to bring over to share with the lone customer, her childhood friend who she’s now decided she’s enamored with. She’s not paying attention while preparing the tea and was adding way too much sugar, her assistant keeps trying to tell her to stop adding sugar, she keeps interrupting the assistant so he can’t finish his sentences, she ends up serving the overly sweet tea, the guy almost chokes on it… it was supposed to be funny. I’m not a fan of stupid preventable things happening just for laughs. Next thing that happens, our hero walks in to the bookstore and gets in line behind the childhood friend that’s choking on the sweet tea. He’s standing there waiting for his turn at the cash register, and the heroine just carries on flirting and drinking tea instead of helping her customers waiting in line (that are standing right in front of her). Like put the tea cup down, take care of the waiting customer, then go back to flirting and chit chat. It was just silly, and I immediately disliked her as a character.
Read
July 30, 2023I'm setting this aside at 40%. It's not bad, it's just flat. It feels paint-by-numbers. I put it down and don't have the spoons to pick it back up. Maybe I'll come back to it later.
March 9, 2024
3,5 ⭐️ A fun Regency take on She's All That, but one where the heroine knows she is being made over. I liked this book so much more than i expected, it was funny and lighthearted.
Quotes : ( a minor spoiler)
“none of the disparaging things I’d been thinking about myself were facts. They were simply opinions, and opinions varied. They could also be changed. I might be plain to some and pretty to others. I might not be the most accomplished dancer, but I’m not the worst either. And I might not have been born to be a duchess, but I realized there was no reason I couldn’t be one if I wanted to.”
Quotes : ( a minor spoiler)
“none of the disparaging things I’d been thinking about myself were facts. They were simply opinions, and opinions varied. They could also be changed. I might be plain to some and pretty to others. I might not be the most accomplished dancer, but I’m not the worst either. And I might not have been born to be a duchess, but I realized there was no reason I couldn’t be one if I wanted to.”
November 13, 2023
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.
March 30, 2023
i received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Evie Harlowe runs a quaint little bookshop, but when the Duke of Westmore propositions her help to win a bet with his friends to make her the Diamond of the Season, she can't resist to his offer especially after her shop is damaged. She has no choice but to be whisked into the high society world of the ton, and let the duke transform her into the bell of the ball.
After a very slow beginning for me, I found myself really getting into this book. What a fun historical take on She's All That, I hated that Evie was made to feel ugly by those young men who made the bet but was extremely surprised at how much Max didn't act stuck up or snobby. He truly cared for Evie and tried to make her life better especially when he saw how hard she worked. He was a super sweet hero, and I loved the subtle moments between them like when he was teaching her how to dance. There was a gentleness and a kindness to their relationship. They were friends and lovers. If you want a good guy hero who doesn't really screw up badly then you may want to give this a try.
Overall, an engaging read just wish it had picked up a little faster. If it's going slow in the beginning for you stick with it because it gets better a little over 25 percent in.
Evie Harlowe runs a quaint little bookshop, but when the Duke of Westmore propositions her help to win a bet with his friends to make her the Diamond of the Season, she can't resist to his offer especially after her shop is damaged. She has no choice but to be whisked into the high society world of the ton, and let the duke transform her into the bell of the ball.
After a very slow beginning for me, I found myself really getting into this book. What a fun historical take on She's All That, I hated that Evie was made to feel ugly by those young men who made the bet but was extremely surprised at how much Max didn't act stuck up or snobby. He truly cared for Evie and tried to make her life better especially when he saw how hard she worked. He was a super sweet hero, and I loved the subtle moments between them like when he was teaching her how to dance. There was a gentleness and a kindness to their relationship. They were friends and lovers. If you want a good guy hero who doesn't really screw up badly then you may want to give this a try.
Overall, an engaging read just wish it had picked up a little faster. If it's going slow in the beginning for you stick with it because it gets better a little over 25 percent in.
August 5, 2023
BOOKSHOP CINDERELLA
Laura Lee Guhrke
One can NEVER go wrong with a bookshop and a Cinderella bell of the ball! This is the typically plotted boy meets girl who is not in the same class and it starts out as a mutual bet only to end up with love in the air!
But the ride is fun and the rapport between the Duke and Evie is a great deal of fun. All along we think that Evie is a "sweet" little thing but red garters might indicate something else. After a prim little bookshop owner strikes a deal with the Duke that he can make her a bell of the season, the race is on to see who is more forward between them.
While following a "My Fair Lady" outline, the book made me smile and I really enjoyed it. I know there are probably a great many historical flaws, but hey.... these are all acceptable. I like the idea that even in times when women were second citizens, some women were still independent even then.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
Laura Lee Guhrke
One can NEVER go wrong with a bookshop and a Cinderella bell of the ball! This is the typically plotted boy meets girl who is not in the same class and it starts out as a mutual bet only to end up with love in the air!
But the ride is fun and the rapport between the Duke and Evie is a great deal of fun. All along we think that Evie is a "sweet" little thing but red garters might indicate something else. After a prim little bookshop owner strikes a deal with the Duke that he can make her a bell of the season, the race is on to see who is more forward between them.
While following a "My Fair Lady" outline, the book made me smile and I really enjoyed it. I know there are probably a great many historical flaws, but hey.... these are all acceptable. I like the idea that even in times when women were second citizens, some women were still independent even then.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
February 16, 2023
I enjoyed this a lot. Laura always provides a good romance with great characters and good writing. I loved the premise of this HR, but I wish our hero & heroine had spent more time together. I felt like I’m the two months that this story was going on we didn’t get enough interactions between the two. Plus, so much that our heroine was doing was told to us rather than actually seeing her in certain situations. Loved Max & his cousin, Delia the most.
May 28, 2023
As a historical romance reader, I am ashamed to say this is my first book by Laura Lee Guhrke and I am so happy it was because it was beautiful. Strong characters, strong plot, strong secondary characters, vivid writing, and a fantastic wrap.! I finished this in one sitting, and at the end, it made me remember why I love historical romance so much! Great story and I can't wait for the next book in the series. Now, have this need to read all of Laura's backlist!
I loved Max. He was so cautious of his heart and position that he was willing to let everything go to make things right. Evie was such a strong female character, being an independent lady and trying to get by. I loved these two characters because they help each other build themselves up, not down. They were both open about what they wanted, and it was their insecurities that got them thinking they didn't deserve happiness. Lovely.
I loved Max. He was so cautious of his heart and position that he was willing to let everything go to make things right. Evie was such a strong female character, being an independent lady and trying to get by. I loved these two characters because they help each other build themselves up, not down. They were both open about what they wanted, and it was their insecurities that got them thinking they didn't deserve happiness. Lovely.
March 5, 2024
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I haven’t read that many historical romances set around the end of the 19th century but I really enjoyed it. An overall light and breezy read!
June 19, 2023
There's gorgeous subtlety and elegant writing in this late Victorian era romance of class difference. LLG has a strong sense of craft, and her character development and plot really reflects that.
Genre: historical romance
London, 1896
Evie Harlow has worked herself to the bone to pay off her father’s debts and to start earning money from the small bookshop she inherited at his death. In addition, she takes on side jobs, such as research and consulting for elaborate Epicurean Club dinners at the Savoy for her friend Delia. When Delia’s cousin Max, also Maximillian Shaw, Duke of Westbourne, agrees to help with the next dinner and meets Evie, he sees beyond the tired woman in desperate need of a vacation. Thanks to a few drinks and jibing from some “friends,” Max places a hundred pound bet: in six weeks he can turn Evie into a woman coveted by society. He’ll put her up at the Savoy and Delia will sponsor her entry into Society.
Bookshop Cinderella is brilliant in its subtlety. The writing is elegant and the character development shows off Guhrke’s strong sense of writing craft. The central plot is more Pygmalian than Cinderella, despite its title, and even the glow-up subtle. Max never tries to change Evie, because he already believes she’s beautiful, just tired and overworked. He wants to provide the opportunity for her to shine, and he’s annoyed that the young men he’s charged with keeping an eye on can’t see Evie’s worth.
For all he’s a thirty-two year-old duke elegantly shouldering the expectations of his class, Max is soft and sweet, and more likely than not to put his foot in his mouth. He’s determined not to repeat his past - he married his first wife for love, but she was an American who ultimately eschewed the British aristocracy and wasn’t ever cut out to be a duchess. Her death haunts Max years later, and he can’t help but compare Evie to her, as a woman from a different class to whom he is completely drawn.
Evie must also navigate complicated waters: a businesswoman who has worked tirelessly, now that her debts are paid she feels adrift. This feeling aligns with the return of a dear childhood friend, who her father had hoped she might marry, but who doesn’t see her for what she’s worth. She only agrees to Max’s offer when her bookshop’s boiler bursts and she has nowhere to stay while the damage is repaired. But she also agrees because her contrary nature means she loves proving people wrong. She wants a little adventure, and she’s not a little unswayed by the fine dresses from Max.
Class difference romances don’t always work, but Guhrke builds a case over the course of the novel as to why this one would: Max has already experienced a failed marriage with a class difference. Older and wiser, he thinks first to avoid the debacle, but starts to reconsider not only as he’s falling in love with Evie, but when she continues to amaze him with her ability to learn new things and her competence and business sense. Both characters profess their concerns again and again that it couldn’t work, all while Guhrke shifts the story in their favor, and making it clear that this isn’t just a happily for now.
The beauty in Guhrke’s writing is in the fact that she never over explains or tries to force her characters into a trope or theme. It’s gentle and subtle, and the sort of novel an avid historical romance reader will adore and appreciate.
Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for an eARC for review. Bookshop Cinderella is out TODAY 6/20/23.
Genre: historical romance
London, 1896
Evie Harlow has worked herself to the bone to pay off her father’s debts and to start earning money from the small bookshop she inherited at his death. In addition, she takes on side jobs, such as research and consulting for elaborate Epicurean Club dinners at the Savoy for her friend Delia. When Delia’s cousin Max, also Maximillian Shaw, Duke of Westbourne, agrees to help with the next dinner and meets Evie, he sees beyond the tired woman in desperate need of a vacation. Thanks to a few drinks and jibing from some “friends,” Max places a hundred pound bet: in six weeks he can turn Evie into a woman coveted by society. He’ll put her up at the Savoy and Delia will sponsor her entry into Society.
Bookshop Cinderella is brilliant in its subtlety. The writing is elegant and the character development shows off Guhrke’s strong sense of writing craft. The central plot is more Pygmalian than Cinderella, despite its title, and even the glow-up subtle. Max never tries to change Evie, because he already believes she’s beautiful, just tired and overworked. He wants to provide the opportunity for her to shine, and he’s annoyed that the young men he’s charged with keeping an eye on can’t see Evie’s worth.
For all he’s a thirty-two year-old duke elegantly shouldering the expectations of his class, Max is soft and sweet, and more likely than not to put his foot in his mouth. He’s determined not to repeat his past - he married his first wife for love, but she was an American who ultimately eschewed the British aristocracy and wasn’t ever cut out to be a duchess. Her death haunts Max years later, and he can’t help but compare Evie to her, as a woman from a different class to whom he is completely drawn.
Evie must also navigate complicated waters: a businesswoman who has worked tirelessly, now that her debts are paid she feels adrift. This feeling aligns with the return of a dear childhood friend, who her father had hoped she might marry, but who doesn’t see her for what she’s worth. She only agrees to Max’s offer when her bookshop’s boiler bursts and she has nowhere to stay while the damage is repaired. But she also agrees because her contrary nature means she loves proving people wrong. She wants a little adventure, and she’s not a little unswayed by the fine dresses from Max.
Class difference romances don’t always work, but Guhrke builds a case over the course of the novel as to why this one would: Max has already experienced a failed marriage with a class difference. Older and wiser, he thinks first to avoid the debacle, but starts to reconsider not only as he’s falling in love with Evie, but when she continues to amaze him with her ability to learn new things and her competence and business sense. Both characters profess their concerns again and again that it couldn’t work, all while Guhrke shifts the story in their favor, and making it clear that this isn’t just a happily for now.
The beauty in Guhrke’s writing is in the fact that she never over explains or tries to force her characters into a trope or theme. It’s gentle and subtle, and the sort of novel an avid historical romance reader will adore and appreciate.
Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for an eARC for review. Bookshop Cinderella is out TODAY 6/20/23.
May 30, 2024
Review edited on May 29, 2023:
Downgraded from 4 stars to 1 star. I don't support zionists. See here.
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I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's been a while since I read a LLG book, so I was very happy to pick up Bookshop Cinderella. Contrary to the title, this book is more of a Pygmalion/My Fair Lady retelling. Evie runs her late father's bookshop and creates versatile cultural menus on the side for the Savoy Hotel. When Evie becomes the subject of a wager, Max, the Duke of Westbourne, approaches her with a proposition to win the bet: he will launch her into society as the diamond of the season.
We've all read some variation of this story before, but Bookshop Cinderella actually managed to surprise me. For once, we have an affable and easygoing Duke. I think this is the first time I've come across a Duke who's not starchy, cold, or grumpy?? LOL. I honestly love how chill Max was, especially in contrast to the heroine who is stressed out and needs a vacation. I'm a sucker for a supportive hero who helps the heroine destress and forget about her troubles.
The main thing that I love about this book is the build up of friendship and attraction. It takes Max and Evie some time to realize that they are attracted to each other. The romance kicks off with savage banter first and foremost. Evie may not have had the best impression of Max at first, but she eventually becomes friends with him when they work together to win the bet. Max's handsomeness doesn't have an effect on Evie until after she gets to know him. It's the same thing with Max, although the attraction on his side happens first. All of this contributed to a solid foundation for the relationship development. It made the chemistry and the tension between Max and Evie that much more potent. It was honestly such a breath of fresh air from all the insta-love/insta-lust romance books.
In retrospect, I shouldn't have been surprised because LLG usually writes her stories this way. I think it's just been so long since I've read one of her books, and I really need to catch up on her newer releases. I did notice that her writing style is a bit different here. For instance, there are lots of run-on sentences, which are not my favourite. Surprisingly, this did not bug me because the sentences were still somehow clear and her story-telling is as immersive as I remember it being. It could be that she has a new editor now that she has moved to a different publishing house.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I liked both of the characters, the romance, and the story. And I am looking forward to whatever else LLG has in store for this series!
Downgraded from 4 stars to 1 star. I don't support zionists. See here.
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I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's been a while since I read a LLG book, so I was very happy to pick up Bookshop Cinderella. Contrary to the title, this book is more of a Pygmalion/My Fair Lady retelling. Evie runs her late father's bookshop and creates versatile cultural menus on the side for the Savoy Hotel. When Evie becomes the subject of a wager, Max, the Duke of Westbourne, approaches her with a proposition to win the bet: he will launch her into society as the diamond of the season.
We've all read some variation of this story before, but Bookshop Cinderella actually managed to surprise me. For once, we have an affable and easygoing Duke. I think this is the first time I've come across a Duke who's not starchy, cold, or grumpy?? LOL. I honestly love how chill Max was, especially in contrast to the heroine who is stressed out and needs a vacation. I'm a sucker for a supportive hero who helps the heroine destress and forget about her troubles.
The main thing that I love about this book is the build up of friendship and attraction. It takes Max and Evie some time to realize that they are attracted to each other. The romance kicks off with savage banter first and foremost. Evie may not have had the best impression of Max at first, but she eventually becomes friends with him when they work together to win the bet. Max's handsomeness doesn't have an effect on Evie until after she gets to know him. It's the same thing with Max, although the attraction on his side happens first. All of this contributed to a solid foundation for the relationship development. It made the chemistry and the tension between Max and Evie that much more potent. It was honestly such a breath of fresh air from all the insta-love/insta-lust romance books.
In retrospect, I shouldn't have been surprised because LLG usually writes her stories this way. I think it's just been so long since I've read one of her books, and I really need to catch up on her newer releases. I did notice that her writing style is a bit different here. For instance, there are lots of run-on sentences, which are not my favourite. Surprisingly, this did not bug me because the sentences were still somehow clear and her story-telling is as immersive as I remember it being. It could be that she has a new editor now that she has moved to a different publishing house.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I liked both of the characters, the romance, and the story. And I am looking forward to whatever else LLG has in store for this series!
March 18, 2023
Maximillian Shaw, Duke of Westbourne, has returned to London to find a wife, but he doesn't want his sisters or his cousin Delia to know. Delia, who works for the hotelier Cesar Ritz, has promised Ritz's legendary chef Escoffier to provide research for an upcoming feast, but since she must leave town, she asks Max to contact her research associate, bookshop owner Evie Harlow, to collect the information. When Max enters the bookshop, accompanied by three young swells with more hair than sense, he's intrigued by Evie, despite her work-worn appearance. A night of drinking with his companions leads Max to an impulsive wager: he claims he can turn Evie into a society beauty in just a few short weeks.
Really, I shouldn't have even bothered to pick up this book because the Cinderella trope is one that no longer sits well with me. While I do enjoy a good, independent, working middle class heroine, Evie's character felt inconsistent. I was glad Max brought up the wager to her immediately, but I didn't like how he kept pressing her (even if he wasn't super forceful about it). And overall their relationship seemed like it might have been better as friendship, because the attraction level wasn't wholly believable.
Delia's character was the most enjoyable to me, so I was sorry she wasn't on the page more. And the side plot with Rory, Evie's childhood friend, was really cringeworthy.
Maybe 10 years ago I would have enjoyed this book more. Now? Not so much. 2 stars.
Thank you, Forever/Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley, for providing an eARC of this book. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
Really, I shouldn't have even bothered to pick up this book because the Cinderella trope is one that no longer sits well with me. While I do enjoy a good, independent, working middle class heroine, Evie's character felt inconsistent. I was glad Max brought up the wager to her immediately, but I didn't like how he kept pressing her (even if he wasn't super forceful about it). And overall their relationship seemed like it might have been better as friendship, because the attraction level wasn't wholly believable.
Delia's character was the most enjoyable to me, so I was sorry she wasn't on the page more. And the side plot with Rory, Evie's childhood friend, was really cringeworthy.
Maybe 10 years ago I would have enjoyed this book more. Now? Not so much. 2 stars.
Thank you, Forever/Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley, for providing an eARC of this book. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
April 26, 2024
I liked the story; it gave off a 'Pretty Woman' vibe, and now I really want to see that movie again. I'm definitely here for a "provider" hero!
What I liked least was that we didn't get to know the characters better. Also, the pace at the beginning of the book was too slow; it was hard to get involved in the story at first, but once the story captured my attention, it was fun to read.
What I liked least was that we didn't get to know the characters better. Also, the pace at the beginning of the book was too slow; it was hard to get involved in the story at first, but once the story captured my attention, it was fun to read.
September 18, 2023
Cute!!!
June 20, 2023
4.5 Stars
🌶🌶
This was a sweet historical romance that really gave me She's All That vibes, more than a Cinderella retelling. This is my first Laura Lee Guhrke book, and I was very impressed. It was elegantly written, with great character development and great side characters.
Evie is a struggling bookshop owner and has had to work extremely hard to pay off her father's debts after his death and to keep the bookshop open. Max, Duke of Westbourne, goes to the bookshop to help his cousin, who was working with Evie on a project. He happened to bring in a few other young men with him, and they were rude and disrespectful to Evie. Later that night, they were talking about how plain Evie was, and Max defended her. They decided to wager that Max couldn't get her to be desirable for a ball in 6 weeks. Max takes the bet because he actually thought she was beautiful and he wanted to put these idiots in their place.
At first, I was worried about the bet storyline because this always follows the same storyline, where the heroine finds out near the end, and there is a 3rd act breakup. However, Max revealed the bet and everything to Evie immediately. I found this extremely refreshing.
Evie was offended and denied the request initially, but then decided to go for it when her bookshop was flooded. I really related to Evie and how she was settling for her life even though she wasn't really happy running the bookshop. I loved watching her find confidence and push herself out of her comfort zone.
Max had a disaster of a marriage when he married an American who was ill prepared to be a Duchess. He decided to find a wife who was made to be a Duchess, and he would not marry for love this time.
This was a super slow burn romance. Max did so many sweet things to help Evie and constantly showed her he respected her. I loved the picnic he made for her and when he taught her how to dance. I felt their connection and chemistry, although I wish there was more spice. It didn't lower my rating because there was one sex scene, and I felt it was perfect for this story. I do think the ending wrapped up really quickly, and I wish there was an epilogue.
This was just a sweet, feel-good, slow burn, and low angst historical romance. I'm impressed with the authors writing and how she didn't do the expected tropes or storylines.
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for providing this ARC.
🌶🌶
This was a sweet historical romance that really gave me She's All That vibes, more than a Cinderella retelling. This is my first Laura Lee Guhrke book, and I was very impressed. It was elegantly written, with great character development and great side characters.
Evie is a struggling bookshop owner and has had to work extremely hard to pay off her father's debts after his death and to keep the bookshop open. Max, Duke of Westbourne, goes to the bookshop to help his cousin, who was working with Evie on a project. He happened to bring in a few other young men with him, and they were rude and disrespectful to Evie. Later that night, they were talking about how plain Evie was, and Max defended her. They decided to wager that Max couldn't get her to be desirable for a ball in 6 weeks. Max takes the bet because he actually thought she was beautiful and he wanted to put these idiots in their place.
At first, I was worried about the bet storyline because this always follows the same storyline, where the heroine finds out near the end, and there is a 3rd act breakup. However, Max revealed the bet and everything to Evie immediately. I found this extremely refreshing.
Evie was offended and denied the request initially, but then decided to go for it when her bookshop was flooded. I really related to Evie and how she was settling for her life even though she wasn't really happy running the bookshop. I loved watching her find confidence and push herself out of her comfort zone.
Max had a disaster of a marriage when he married an American who was ill prepared to be a Duchess. He decided to find a wife who was made to be a Duchess, and he would not marry for love this time.
This was a super slow burn romance. Max did so many sweet things to help Evie and constantly showed her he respected her. I loved the picnic he made for her and when he taught her how to dance. I felt their connection and chemistry, although I wish there was more spice. It didn't lower my rating because there was one sex scene, and I felt it was perfect for this story. I do think the ending wrapped up really quickly, and I wish there was an epilogue.
This was just a sweet, feel-good, slow burn, and low angst historical romance. I'm impressed with the authors writing and how she didn't do the expected tropes or storylines.
Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for providing this ARC.
December 3, 2025
It's been a while since I've enjoyed a historical romance this much! It was both cute and fluffy with more serious themes of acceptance and believing in yourself written in a lovely way. My only gripe was that while the chemistry between Max and Evie was undeniable, the transition from passion/lust to love happened in a heartbeat.
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