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Rebels with a Cause #3
How to Win a Wallflower
A wallflower will put everything on the line . . .
When John Barnesworth inherits unexpectedly, he abandons his solitude and returns to London to settle his brother's affairs, only to discover his estates are crumbling and he is now betrothed to his brother’s unpleasant fiancée. Her dowry might save him from ruin, but at what cost? His only hope lies with the vivacious, charming Lady Charlotte Stirling, whose audacious solution to John's troubles might actually work. If only he can keep his feelings for her out of the equation . . .
Lady Charlotte Stirling knows she can’t fall for John. He’s her brother’s best friend, he’s engaged to her mortal enemy, and he wants to return to America. Not to mention he’d never survive in her bustling social life. She can, however, try to solve his money problem. But the closer she gets to ensuring his freedom, the harder it is to let him go . . .
When John Barnesworth inherits unexpectedly, he abandons his solitude and returns to London to settle his brother's affairs, only to discover his estates are crumbling and he is now betrothed to his brother’s unpleasant fiancée. Her dowry might save him from ruin, but at what cost? His only hope lies with the vivacious, charming Lady Charlotte Stirling, whose audacious solution to John's troubles might actually work. If only he can keep his feelings for her out of the equation . . .
Lady Charlotte Stirling knows she can’t fall for John. He’s her brother’s best friend, he’s engaged to her mortal enemy, and he wants to return to America. Not to mention he’d never survive in her bustling social life. She can, however, try to solve his money problem. But the closer she gets to ensuring his freedom, the harder it is to let him go . . .
367 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 13, 2022
29 people are currently reading
2596 people want to read
About the author
Samara Parish
6 books205 followersSamara Parish is an award-winning author of historical romance. Her debut novel, How To Survive A Scandal, won the Romance Writers of Australia Romantic Book of the Year (RuBY) award in 2022.
How To Deceive A Duke and How To Win A Wallflower both released in 2022. You can download the series epilogue - https://samaraparish.com/rebels-serie...
Her short story, The General's Daughter, is available for free when you sign up to her newsletter - https://samaraparish.com/newsletter
She is always looking for an excuse to procrastinate, so she'd love it if you asked her a question!
As an Australian army brat in the ‘80s, Samara grew up moving from city to city—always with plenty of book boxes (to the movers’ annoyance). She reads anything that lets her escape - in particular romance, YA fantasy, and epic fantasy, although she has been known to read the occasional blockbuster suspense novel, even though she is a total sook who has a tendency to shriek at anything slightly scary.
When she's not writing or reading, she's walking her dogs or trying to tame her out of control harder. She lives in Canberra with her husband (a true romance hero) and her menagerie of pets.
How To Deceive A Duke and How To Win A Wallflower both released in 2022. You can download the series epilogue - https://samaraparish.com/rebels-serie...
Her short story, The General's Daughter, is available for free when you sign up to her newsletter - https://samaraparish.com/newsletter
She is always looking for an excuse to procrastinate, so she'd love it if you asked her a question!
As an Australian army brat in the ‘80s, Samara grew up moving from city to city—always with plenty of book boxes (to the movers’ annoyance). She reads anything that lets her escape - in particular romance, YA fantasy, and epic fantasy, although she has been known to read the occasional blockbuster suspense novel, even though she is a total sook who has a tendency to shriek at anything slightly scary.
When she's not writing or reading, she's walking her dogs or trying to tame her out of control harder. She lives in Canberra with her husband (a true romance hero) and her menagerie of pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
January 4, 2023
I LOVED this! How wonderful to end 2022 with finding a new favorite.
After enjoying book #1 and not enjoying book #2 at all, I was unsure how I would feel about this third and final installment in the Rebels with a Cause series. Then it completely blew my expectations out of the water and now I wish the series wasn't over!
This is a brother's best friend, opposites attract romance with a reclusive inventor hero and a social butterfly, belle of the ton heroine. Charlotte and John truly bring out the best in each other by complementing one another's weaknesses with their strengths. The conflict, both external and internal, was believable, and the various subplots did not make the plot feel muddled but rather added to the characters' journeys and made me want to keep reading to see how it all would end.
The only thing I didn't understand was the book's title. Charlotte is not a wallflower by any means—even though she's been unmarried in the four years since her debut, she always has a dance partner and is very involved in several aspects of society. There also was not much "winning" here, just John and Charlotte needing to find solutions to their various problems so they can be together.
Overall I HIGHLY recommend this book and cannot wait to see what Samara Parish comes up with next! Even if I'm disappointed Oliver the Foreman and Charlotte's brother, Will, won't be getting books of their own (though I'd argue a spinoff series is definitely possible...).
Thank you to Forever via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
After enjoying book #1 and not enjoying book #2 at all, I was unsure how I would feel about this third and final installment in the Rebels with a Cause series. Then it completely blew my expectations out of the water and now I wish the series wasn't over!
This is a brother's best friend, opposites attract romance with a reclusive inventor hero and a social butterfly, belle of the ton heroine. Charlotte and John truly bring out the best in each other by complementing one another's weaknesses with their strengths. The conflict, both external and internal, was believable, and the various subplots did not make the plot feel muddled but rather added to the characters' journeys and made me want to keep reading to see how it all would end.
The only thing I didn't understand was the book's title. Charlotte is not a wallflower by any means—even though she's been unmarried in the four years since her debut, she always has a dance partner and is very involved in several aspects of society. There also was not much "winning" here, just John and Charlotte needing to find solutions to their various problems so they can be together.
Overall I HIGHLY recommend this book and cannot wait to see what Samara Parish comes up with next! Even if I'm disappointed Oliver the Foreman and Charlotte's brother, Will, won't be getting books of their own (though I'd argue a spinoff series is definitely possible...).
Thank you to Forever via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 3, 2022
✨It got to a point where I was holding out my iPod touch, looking around each corner for Medusa.✨
I didn’t hate it but my biggest issue is just being stressed at every turn of this book. I didn’t know how the fiancé would go, then the gambling, or the possibility of a sex scene, then the last half, then the epilogue apparently. Every single event or decision made was stressful and I was reading more so to feel less stressed than because I was enjoying the goings on. I really like Parish’s writing style, but the last books have been blergh.
The plot twist was unnecessary. Every major milestone happens before 65% so at that point I was like cool now what? A whole fuckin lot apparently. I think I short circuited. I wanted to enjoy this ride but I was holding onto the “Oh Shit!” handle at every corner. Honestly not even just corners, but straight lines too.
✨
Also where the hell was the sex? Book one was fade to black, but book two banged pretty well from what I can remember, and I was impressed with the change in style. So with book three, I just expected the level we got in book 2 and this simply…didn’t compare at all. The first carriage scene we got to was such an abrupt fade to black time jump I absolutely thought I accidentally skipped a page.
Then we got one semi explicit scene that lasted a couple pages. Then another very random and useless fade to black moment halfway through the epilogue. The initial fade to black moment had me again STRESSED because I didn’t know how the sex scene would go. Personally, what an odd way to introduce the couple in a sexual situation. Why the record scratch?
✨
Edward’s such a thorn in my side and this reminded me time and time again why book 2 didn’t work for me. William’s addition here was like boom here’s the entire plot now and then it just faded to the background until poof it’s all better. No real questions were answered so he’s obviously getting a book, but it felt more disjointed than anything.
You definitely need to have read both books to read this one because a lot of names were thrown around with little explanation. Same thing with a lot of details and plot points.
✨
I did like how this didn’t really revolve too heavily on John being engaged to her enemy (the summary made it seem like he’d be spending a lot of time with said enemy) but it at least functioned differently here. I was happy with that actually, even if it did stress me out the entire time before the engagement ended. Speaking of the summary, they gambled rather than looked for American heiresses (he danced with them because they were being ostracized, not because there was ever a chance he’d marry them) so idk where the disconnect happened, but the summary isn’t very accurate.
John was cute and I guess I liked Charlotte but their relationship was so surface level. When he said “I love you” when he did I was like WUT?? (Bedroom John in general felt disconnected with his character from the first half of the book.) They were very different and wanted such different things that I think this needed to be more of a character driven book than it was. There was so much background noise that the intricacies of their relationship got lost in the fray.
The foundation of this book was there, but the execution went awry. Charlotte had been pining for John her entire life and we always love to see it. I think there was an opportunity to have a very low angst, sweet and deep romance, but the train took a different route…right into another train. He was such a soft character and the moments between them were soft and adorable, but the book was hard and the end was chaotic if that makes sense.
While I was stressed and a bit angry during the book, I felt so much better after I finished and could look at the book as a whole. I think this has more reread potential than first read potential from me.
⭐️⭐️.75/5 🌶🌶.25/5
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
I didn’t hate it but my biggest issue is just being stressed at every turn of this book. I didn’t know how the fiancé would go, then the gambling, or the possibility of a sex scene, then the last half, then the epilogue apparently. Every single event or decision made was stressful and I was reading more so to feel less stressed than because I was enjoying the goings on. I really like Parish’s writing style, but the last books have been blergh.
The plot twist was unnecessary. Every major milestone happens before 65% so at that point I was like cool now what? A whole fuckin lot apparently. I think I short circuited. I wanted to enjoy this ride but I was holding onto the “Oh Shit!” handle at every corner. Honestly not even just corners, but straight lines too.
✨
Also where the hell was the sex? Book one was fade to black, but book two banged pretty well from what I can remember, and I was impressed with the change in style. So with book three, I just expected the level we got in book 2 and this simply…didn’t compare at all. The first carriage scene we got to was such an abrupt fade to black time jump I absolutely thought I accidentally skipped a page.
Then we got one semi explicit scene that lasted a couple pages. Then another very random and useless fade to black moment halfway through the epilogue. The initial fade to black moment had me again STRESSED because I didn’t know how the sex scene would go. Personally, what an odd way to introduce the couple in a sexual situation. Why the record scratch?
✨
Edward’s such a thorn in my side and this reminded me time and time again why book 2 didn’t work for me. William’s addition here was like boom here’s the entire plot now and then it just faded to the background until poof it’s all better. No real questions were answered so he’s obviously getting a book, but it felt more disjointed than anything.
You definitely need to have read both books to read this one because a lot of names were thrown around with little explanation. Same thing with a lot of details and plot points.
✨
I did like how this didn’t really revolve too heavily on John being engaged to her enemy (the summary made it seem like he’d be spending a lot of time with said enemy) but it at least functioned differently here. I was happy with that actually, even if it did stress me out the entire time before the engagement ended. Speaking of the summary, they gambled rather than looked for American heiresses (he danced with them because they were being ostracized, not because there was ever a chance he’d marry them) so idk where the disconnect happened, but the summary isn’t very accurate.
John was cute and I guess I liked Charlotte but their relationship was so surface level. When he said “I love you” when he did I was like WUT?? (Bedroom John in general felt disconnected with his character from the first half of the book.) They were very different and wanted such different things that I think this needed to be more of a character driven book than it was. There was so much background noise that the intricacies of their relationship got lost in the fray.
The foundation of this book was there, but the execution went awry. Charlotte had been pining for John her entire life and we always love to see it. I think there was an opportunity to have a very low angst, sweet and deep romance, but the train took a different route…right into another train. He was such a soft character and the moments between them were soft and adorable, but the book was hard and the end was chaotic if that makes sense.
While I was stressed and a bit angry during the book, I felt so much better after I finished and could look at the book as a whole. I think this has more reread potential than first read potential from me.
⭐️⭐️.75/5 🌶🌶.25/5
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
May 24, 2024
Oh HE’S the wallflower!
December 13, 2022
How to Win a Wallflower is the third book in Samara Parish’s Rebels with a Cause historical romance series. This is Charlotte’s story, and it’s a lovely opposites-attract romance between her and her brother’s friend John, who has recently returned to England after several years away. During that time, Charlotte has received and declined two marriage proposals.
When John inherits his brother’s title and returns from Canada to clean up the financial mess his brother made, he realizes he is in worse financial straights than he imagined. Luckily, Charlotte, who has cared for John for many years, sees this as an opportunity to help him. Charlotte is a fixer, ad she proposes a risky plan to help John. As the pair enters the gambling arena to win enough money to pay John’s debt, they also resist their growing but forbidden feelings for each other.
John and charlotte have a lovely opposites attract, brother’s best friend romance. Charlotte has loved John for so long, and John is now seeing Charlotte in a new light. She’s no longer the little sister of his best friend, but a beautiful, vivacious woman, and he finds her hard to resist. It’s lovely to see his feelings change and grow. They have such a great connection, and even though they’re opposite in many ways, they fit.
John helps Charlotte see certain things about herself. He gives her the confidence to seek her own happiness. Charlotte is so helpful and giving and altruistic, and she always puts her own feelings and wants behind others. It’s nice to see her assert her own wishes, and I love that John encourages her. He is a man who sees Charlotte for who she is not what she can do for him, and that’s unusual for her. There’s a scene in the book where it shows how perfect they are for each other and says, “Where she was weak, he was strong. What he lacked, she had in abundance,” and I just love that. They are so different in many ways, yet they complement each other well.
I enjoyed the book and thought the story had a lot of layers. Ultimately, it’s about the relationship between John and Charlotte, but it’s also about family and friendship, taking risks, and fighting for those you love. The characters struggle with addictions, expectations, peril, and PTSD. It definitely highlights many of the issues that were prevalent at the time, and many that continue to plague people today. I’m eager to read the next book in the series, especially after seeing the pain and suffering Charlotte’s brother has endured since the first book. I have a feeling his story will be really moving.
Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
When John inherits his brother’s title and returns from Canada to clean up the financial mess his brother made, he realizes he is in worse financial straights than he imagined. Luckily, Charlotte, who has cared for John for many years, sees this as an opportunity to help him. Charlotte is a fixer, ad she proposes a risky plan to help John. As the pair enters the gambling arena to win enough money to pay John’s debt, they also resist their growing but forbidden feelings for each other.
John and charlotte have a lovely opposites attract, brother’s best friend romance. Charlotte has loved John for so long, and John is now seeing Charlotte in a new light. She’s no longer the little sister of his best friend, but a beautiful, vivacious woman, and he finds her hard to resist. It’s lovely to see his feelings change and grow. They have such a great connection, and even though they’re opposite in many ways, they fit.
John helps Charlotte see certain things about herself. He gives her the confidence to seek her own happiness. Charlotte is so helpful and giving and altruistic, and she always puts her own feelings and wants behind others. It’s nice to see her assert her own wishes, and I love that John encourages her. He is a man who sees Charlotte for who she is not what she can do for him, and that’s unusual for her. There’s a scene in the book where it shows how perfect they are for each other and says, “Where she was weak, he was strong. What he lacked, she had in abundance,” and I just love that. They are so different in many ways, yet they complement each other well.
I enjoyed the book and thought the story had a lot of layers. Ultimately, it’s about the relationship between John and Charlotte, but it’s also about family and friendship, taking risks, and fighting for those you love. The characters struggle with addictions, expectations, peril, and PTSD. It definitely highlights many of the issues that were prevalent at the time, and many that continue to plague people today. I’m eager to read the next book in the series, especially after seeing the pain and suffering Charlotte’s brother has endured since the first book. I have a feeling his story will be really moving.
Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
December 27, 2022
John Barnesworth is an inventor and businessman but, when he inherits his brother's title unexpectedly, his world is turned upside down. Lady Charlotte Stirling has had a crush on her brother’s best friend for years...but she did not anticipate him returning to London from Boston under such unusual circumstance. Charlotte is desperate to help John and perhaps have a chance at claiming his heart.
This is the third book in the Rebel with a Cause series. Book two's couple appears in this book as that hero is Charlotte's brother and John's friend. The title of this book is a bit ill-fitting as Charlotte is NOT a wallflower, but rather a well-loved social butterfly.
This is a slow burn story, but I enjoyed it because there were quite a few layers. John inherits after his brother is in a drowning accident and he finds the estate bankrupt and in shambles. There is also the pesky matter of a betrothal contract written in such a way that obligates the title-holder and not specifically his older brother. The woman in question happens to a complete harpy and Lady Charlotte's sworn enemy. John refuses to tie himself to either lady just to get out of debt, but a spark emerges as Charlotte tries to help John with his money problems. As it turns out, Charlotte needs to raise funds too, for a situation has arisen with her back-from-war brother. I was glad to get a sneak peek at William and can't wait to see his story unfold in the next book. The twists and turns kept this story interesting!
Tropes: Opposites Attract, Brother's Best Friend/Best Friend's Sister, Friends to Lovers, Unexpected Inheritence
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #HowtoWinaWallflower #NetGalley
This is the third book in the Rebel with a Cause series. Book two's couple appears in this book as that hero is Charlotte's brother and John's friend. The title of this book is a bit ill-fitting as Charlotte is NOT a wallflower, but rather a well-loved social butterfly.
This is a slow burn story, but I enjoyed it because there were quite a few layers. John inherits after his brother is in a drowning accident and he finds the estate bankrupt and in shambles. There is also the pesky matter of a betrothal contract written in such a way that obligates the title-holder and not specifically his older brother. The woman in question happens to a complete harpy and Lady Charlotte's sworn enemy. John refuses to tie himself to either lady just to get out of debt, but a spark emerges as Charlotte tries to help John with his money problems. As it turns out, Charlotte needs to raise funds too, for a situation has arisen with her back-from-war brother. I was glad to get a sneak peek at William and can't wait to see his story unfold in the next book. The twists and turns kept this story interesting!
Tropes: Opposites Attract, Brother's Best Friend/Best Friend's Sister, Friends to Lovers, Unexpected Inheritence
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #HowtoWinaWallflower #NetGalley
December 20, 2022
Book #3 (the final book?) in the Rebels With a Cause series. It’s an opposites-attract/brothers best friend steamy romance between our hero John Barnesworth, a reclusive scientific engineer who’s now the newly minted Viscount Harrow, and our social butterfly heroine, Lady Charlotte (the sister of a Duke).
John is Lady Charlotte’s brothers best friend that she’s secretly been pining over for years. John returns to London from Boston to find his family’s coffers in dire straits and with Charlottes help through gambling sets it to rights.. making good on all his dead brothers debts. But just when you think these two are going to ride off into the sunset together.. SURPRISE.. the unthinkable happens!!! There’s even a “cruella deville” fiancée added into the mix surrounding John’s brother’s exploits. This was a whole lotta fun with tricky situations I didn’t expect to find!!! 5 stars — Pub. 12/13/22
John is Lady Charlotte’s brothers best friend that she’s secretly been pining over for years. John returns to London from Boston to find his family’s coffers in dire straits and with Charlottes help through gambling sets it to rights.. making good on all his dead brothers debts. But just when you think these two are going to ride off into the sunset together.. SURPRISE.. the unthinkable happens!!! There’s even a “cruella deville” fiancée added into the mix surrounding John’s brother’s exploits. This was a whole lotta fun with tricky situations I didn’t expect to find!!! 5 stars — Pub. 12/13/22
February 8, 2023
This was my favorite book in this series, although I did truly enjoy them all. Samara Parish is now firmly in the must read category for me.
This story is full of angst and enough obstacles that I had a hard time putting it down.
John Barnesworth is back in London after living in America for a few years following the death of his brother. There is a massive amount of debt and the estate has been badly neglected. He will need to find a way to settle the debts and deal with the fiancee he has also inherited.
Lady Charlotte Sterling has been in love with John since she was a girl and she's determined to help him out of this situation.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This story is full of angst and enough obstacles that I had a hard time putting it down.
John Barnesworth is back in London after living in America for a few years following the death of his brother. There is a massive amount of debt and the estate has been badly neglected. He will need to find a way to settle the debts and deal with the fiancee he has also inherited.
Lady Charlotte Sterling has been in love with John since she was a girl and she's determined to help him out of this situation.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 22, 2022
Inventor John Barnesworth is forced to return to London from Boston when he unexpectedly inherits his brother’s viscountcy. Upset at losing his peaceful solitude, he’s even more distraught to learn that his brother has badly mismanaged the estate and left nothing but debts and a contract with an exceedingly unpleasant fiancé who expects John to uphold his brother’s promises. Her excessively generous dowry would solve John’s new financial issues but he’s not sure it’s worth sacrificing his happiness. So, when his best friend’s sister, Lady Charlotte Stirling, proposes an outrageous scheme to solve his problems, he’s desperate enough to give it a shot, though he struggles to keep his growing feelings for her from getting in the way.
Lady Charlotte knows John is off limits as her brother’s best friend and because he wants to return to America, and she can never see herself leaving her family behind in England. She’s a social butterfly and he prefers to avoid society so a future between them doesn’t make sense, and yet she can’t keep herself from at least trying to help him solve his money problems any more than she can stop herself falling even more for him than she already had when they were younger.
There was a lot going on here, but this book is for me, worked the best of any of the series so far. That said, it definitely wasn’t without some issues that I just can’t help but note. Edward certainly hasn’t learned from any of his past meddling in his siblings’ lives. He’s also a pretty terrible friend to John for most of the book and, though he did come through a little bit later on in the story, it wasn’t enough for me. In fact, none of the people John claimed as friends were there for him when he needed them, and he’d lost everything through no fault of his own. Charlotte could be very oblivious, and I wish she’d fought for John a bit more, but at least she did believe in him because his friends and family sure didn’t. She seemed frivolous at first, but I think that was because she saw herself that way initially. In actuality, though she was rather naïve, she did know a good deal about observing and managing people. This was not a skill I can relate to, but I definitely identified with John’s shyness and the strain he felt when dealing with people in social situations. I really wanted to see him restored to everything he had built, and I wanted to see more of him getting the love and self-worth he deserved. John was just a very endearing, sweet cinnamon roll who needed a hug. I was glad to see the villain here get his comeuppance, though I do wish it hadn’t occurred so much off page. Overall, I did find some parts of this book to be a bit stressful and anxiety inducing, but not nearly as much so as the previous books (and especially Edward and Fiona’s book), I think because John and Charlotte felt so inevitable. I loved the fact that the fights they got into were so realistic and relatable in that they fought and said unkind things to one another, but still loved each other. Charlotte was just a bit too wishy-washy for a while for me to be wholly satisfied, and I wanted to see John have more support from his friends/Charlotte’s family, but otherwise, I really enjoyed this story as it kept me invested and I didn’t want to put it down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lady Charlotte knows John is off limits as her brother’s best friend and because he wants to return to America, and she can never see herself leaving her family behind in England. She’s a social butterfly and he prefers to avoid society so a future between them doesn’t make sense, and yet she can’t keep herself from at least trying to help him solve his money problems any more than she can stop herself falling even more for him than she already had when they were younger.
There was a lot going on here, but this book is for me, worked the best of any of the series so far. That said, it definitely wasn’t without some issues that I just can’t help but note. Edward certainly hasn’t learned from any of his past meddling in his siblings’ lives. He’s also a pretty terrible friend to John for most of the book and, though he did come through a little bit later on in the story, it wasn’t enough for me. In fact, none of the people John claimed as friends were there for him when he needed them, and he’d lost everything through no fault of his own. Charlotte could be very oblivious, and I wish she’d fought for John a bit more, but at least she did believe in him because his friends and family sure didn’t. She seemed frivolous at first, but I think that was because she saw herself that way initially. In actuality, though she was rather naïve, she did know a good deal about observing and managing people. This was not a skill I can relate to, but I definitely identified with John’s shyness and the strain he felt when dealing with people in social situations. I really wanted to see him restored to everything he had built, and I wanted to see more of him getting the love and self-worth he deserved. John was just a very endearing, sweet cinnamon roll who needed a hug. I was glad to see the villain here get his comeuppance, though I do wish it hadn’t occurred so much off page. Overall, I did find some parts of this book to be a bit stressful and anxiety inducing, but not nearly as much so as the previous books (and especially Edward and Fiona’s book), I think because John and Charlotte felt so inevitable. I loved the fact that the fights they got into were so realistic and relatable in that they fought and said unkind things to one another, but still loved each other. Charlotte was just a bit too wishy-washy for a while for me to be wholly satisfied, and I wanted to see John have more support from his friends/Charlotte’s family, but otherwise, I really enjoyed this story as it kept me invested and I didn’t want to put it down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
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December 28, 2022Another win in this series!
I have found each book in this series to get better and better as they go along and I'm glad I took a chance on a new to me author earlier this year.
I've been wanting John's story since we met him and his stutter in How to Survive a Scandal knowing the bond he shared with Benedict, Fiona and Edward. Getting more of him in How to Deceive a Duke I was ready, so ready for his story. I have a soft side for the quiet hero's and I knew John wouldn't disappoint.
This story was a lovely breath of fresh air as the author gives us a twist on the traditional "wallflower" story, making John the wallflower. I know how he feels in many situations that he would rather be alone with his inventions or just his dog than in a room full of people. Small talk is the bane of my existence and like John, I need an anchor in social situations so that I feel comfortable enough to engage. That anchor is usually my husband so that John finds the calm and comfort in Charlotte while out being forced to be the Viscount Harlow, I understood it all perfectly.
Unrequited love is one of my favorites and having had a crush on my brother's friend and later married him, I get how it all can happen. Charlotte is someone I would like to call a friend; she's an extrovert after all and all introverts need a extroverted friend to force them to go out. She does a good job with John all while keeping up with her obligations and creating new ones to help John out of a sticky situation. Of course any form of shenanigan's in romance is cause for the couple to get close and eventually fall in love and I adored the ride we took with John and Charlotte. Especially rides in the carriage...
Ugh but Edward! He was such a jerk in this book and while I can see his concern for his sister being heartbroken, I think our dear older brother Duke forgot all about how he first met Fiona, how he got her out of jail and that his own beloved is different from him AND a commoner but how that makes their bond stronger. I am glad both John and Charlotte followed their hearts even though it could mean they may not end up with the outcomes they expected.
But that aside, I loved every word of this book. I like how the author mixes her reality on the page with characters she's created with actual historical figures. It somehow makes these important people such as Morse more human to read him as a friend and colleague of John's.. Oh and kudos to Charlotte for her first sentence in code.
I have many, many moments that are on repeat in my head from this book, how can I ever think of a thunderstorm the same way again after what John promises Charlotte? The quiet ones are the ones who are always the sexiest and John definitely fits the stereotype.
Every bit of this book was fun as John and Charlotte develop their plan to get John out of debt. There were definitely characters that I didn't like but the exchange with Charlotte and Luella at the end was perfect and freaking fracking Walter. Ugh. I'll just leave it at that.
I have to mention William. That young man has hurt my heart so many times for what he has lived through and I do hope he eventually gets in an HEA even if it's in passing. He deserves to find someone who will fight along side him and for him. He's such an amazing character.
And now I am rambling which is usually a good sign if I have made sense with all these words.
I just loved this book and this series. That's all.
I have found each book in this series to get better and better as they go along and I'm glad I took a chance on a new to me author earlier this year.
I've been wanting John's story since we met him and his stutter in How to Survive a Scandal knowing the bond he shared with Benedict, Fiona and Edward. Getting more of him in How to Deceive a Duke I was ready, so ready for his story. I have a soft side for the quiet hero's and I knew John wouldn't disappoint.
This story was a lovely breath of fresh air as the author gives us a twist on the traditional "wallflower" story, making John the wallflower. I know how he feels in many situations that he would rather be alone with his inventions or just his dog than in a room full of people. Small talk is the bane of my existence and like John, I need an anchor in social situations so that I feel comfortable enough to engage. That anchor is usually my husband so that John finds the calm and comfort in Charlotte while out being forced to be the Viscount Harlow, I understood it all perfectly.
Unrequited love is one of my favorites and having had a crush on my brother's friend and later married him, I get how it all can happen. Charlotte is someone I would like to call a friend; she's an extrovert after all and all introverts need a extroverted friend to force them to go out. She does a good job with John all while keeping up with her obligations and creating new ones to help John out of a sticky situation. Of course any form of shenanigan's in romance is cause for the couple to get close and eventually fall in love and I adored the ride we took with John and Charlotte. Especially rides in the carriage...
Ugh but Edward! He was such a jerk in this book and while I can see his concern for his sister being heartbroken, I think our dear older brother Duke forgot all about how he first met Fiona, how he got her out of jail and that his own beloved is different from him AND a commoner but how that makes their bond stronger. I am glad both John and Charlotte followed their hearts even though it could mean they may not end up with the outcomes they expected.
But that aside, I loved every word of this book. I like how the author mixes her reality on the page with characters she's created with actual historical figures. It somehow makes these important people such as Morse more human to read him as a friend and colleague of John's.. Oh and kudos to Charlotte for her first sentence in code.
I have many, many moments that are on repeat in my head from this book, how can I ever think of a thunderstorm the same way again after what John promises Charlotte? The quiet ones are the ones who are always the sexiest and John definitely fits the stereotype.
Every bit of this book was fun as John and Charlotte develop their plan to get John out of debt. There were definitely characters that I didn't like but the exchange with Charlotte and Luella at the end was perfect and freaking fracking Walter. Ugh. I'll just leave it at that.
I have to mention William. That young man has hurt my heart so many times for what he has lived through and I do hope he eventually gets in an HEA even if it's in passing. He deserves to find someone who will fight along side him and for him. He's such an amazing character.
And now I am rambling which is usually a good sign if I have made sense with all these words.
I just loved this book and this series. That's all.
December 5, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up.
After living and working in America for years, John Barnesworth is back in England, but not by choice. His older brother Walter, who was unmarried, has died, making John the new Viscount Harrow. John has no desire to stay in England, he plans to quickly set the estate to rights and return to Boston, but that was before he learned his brother has bankrupted the estate, leaving a mountain of debt and the pièce de résistance – he signed a betrothal contract for the “Viscount Harrow” to marry Lady Luella, harpy of the first order. And if all this wasn’t bad enough – he finds himself attracted to his best friend, Edward the Duke of Wildeford’s little sister, Lady Charlotte Stirling, AND being warned off by the aforementioned duke. John has no idea how he is going to fix this mess, but one thing he knows for sure, there is no way he is going to marry Lady Luella.
Lady Charlotte has turned down at least twenty proposals over the last four years, not because she doesn’t want to marry, but because she hasn’t found the right man, which might be because he was living in America. Charlotte had had a secret tender for John for many years and was a bit heartbroken when he left England. But now he is back and even though her brother is telling her that John is not right for her and that she won’t be happy with the shy inventor, she can’t stop wanting him. When she learns that he may have to marry her nemesis, Lady Luella to save the estate, she hatches a plan that will enable him to pay off the debts without having to marry, unless he wants to (hint, hint) and it will also enable her to save her other brother, William out of a bind. She shares her idea with John, who is resistant at first, but then agrees to give it a try, and even though they are complete opposites; she is a social butterfly and he is happiest alone, they have a chemistry that cannot be denied and together they make an unbeatable team. But just when it seems like all their problems are about to be solved and HEA is within their reach, everything starts to fall apart and their love will be put to the test.
This was an interesting read that uses some tried and true tropes like opposites attract and forbidden love. John and Charlotte are very relatable and easy to like, making it almost impossible not to root for them in their quest for HEA. The book has a lot going on; secrets, lies, drug/alcohol addictions, characters with self-esteem issues, questionable choices, warm love scenes, nail-biting moments, surprises, shocks, and a comedy of errors leading to a HEA. It was a good read, but frankly, it seemed a bit too much at times, especially at the end when it really started to unravel – seriously, it was over the top. But, despite the ending, I did enjoy the story and would definitely recommend it. This is the third book in the series, but you could easily read it as a standalone title.
*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.*
After living and working in America for years, John Barnesworth is back in England, but not by choice. His older brother Walter, who was unmarried, has died, making John the new Viscount Harrow. John has no desire to stay in England, he plans to quickly set the estate to rights and return to Boston, but that was before he learned his brother has bankrupted the estate, leaving a mountain of debt and the pièce de résistance – he signed a betrothal contract for the “Viscount Harrow” to marry Lady Luella, harpy of the first order. And if all this wasn’t bad enough – he finds himself attracted to his best friend, Edward the Duke of Wildeford’s little sister, Lady Charlotte Stirling, AND being warned off by the aforementioned duke. John has no idea how he is going to fix this mess, but one thing he knows for sure, there is no way he is going to marry Lady Luella.
Lady Charlotte has turned down at least twenty proposals over the last four years, not because she doesn’t want to marry, but because she hasn’t found the right man, which might be because he was living in America. Charlotte had had a secret tender for John for many years and was a bit heartbroken when he left England. But now he is back and even though her brother is telling her that John is not right for her and that she won’t be happy with the shy inventor, she can’t stop wanting him. When she learns that he may have to marry her nemesis, Lady Luella to save the estate, she hatches a plan that will enable him to pay off the debts without having to marry, unless he wants to (hint, hint) and it will also enable her to save her other brother, William out of a bind. She shares her idea with John, who is resistant at first, but then agrees to give it a try, and even though they are complete opposites; she is a social butterfly and he is happiest alone, they have a chemistry that cannot be denied and together they make an unbeatable team. But just when it seems like all their problems are about to be solved and HEA is within their reach, everything starts to fall apart and their love will be put to the test.
This was an interesting read that uses some tried and true tropes like opposites attract and forbidden love. John and Charlotte are very relatable and easy to like, making it almost impossible not to root for them in their quest for HEA. The book has a lot going on; secrets, lies, drug/alcohol addictions, characters with self-esteem issues, questionable choices, warm love scenes, nail-biting moments, surprises, shocks, and a comedy of errors leading to a HEA. It was a good read, but frankly, it seemed a bit too much at times, especially at the end when it really started to unravel – seriously, it was over the top. But, despite the ending, I did enjoy the story and would definitely recommend it. This is the third book in the series, but you could easily read it as a standalone title.
*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.*
November 28, 2022
This is the third in the Rebels with a Cause series and this involves the sister of Duke from How to Deceive a Duke. The title is misleading because Lady Charlotte Stirling is not a wallflower. She is a social butterfly, taking up every cause, invited to every ball. She does take an interest in helping the wallflowers. John Barnesworth returns to London when his brother dies unexpectedly. He is an inventor and businessman. After inheriting his new title he learns his brother has bankrupted the estates and it falls on him to save them. There is an heiress with a dowry but Charlotte has other ideas.
Charlotte has been in love with John since she was a child and wants to help him in any way she can. She also has reasons of her own to make extra money. The plot is very complicated with additional twists coming just when you think things are getting resolved. I’m honestly not sure these two should be together as they genuinely want different things. They are both willing to change and make sacrifices for love especially Charlotte.
Some plot points get dropped along the way. The Duke’s opposition to their marriage, the brothers serious health issues, and I lost track if there were gambling debts to be paid back after the beating. This book doesn’t flow easily. And Charlotte herself seems very naive for her years. Very clueless about intimacy but then boldly spending nights away from home. It wasn’t consistent. I enjoyed the story but if I hadn’t read the author previously I’m not sure this book alone would have me anxiously waiting for the next in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Charlotte has been in love with John since she was a child and wants to help him in any way she can. She also has reasons of her own to make extra money. The plot is very complicated with additional twists coming just when you think things are getting resolved. I’m honestly not sure these two should be together as they genuinely want different things. They are both willing to change and make sacrifices for love especially Charlotte.
Some plot points get dropped along the way. The Duke’s opposition to their marriage, the brothers serious health issues, and I lost track if there were gambling debts to be paid back after the beating. This book doesn’t flow easily. And Charlotte herself seems very naive for her years. Very clueless about intimacy but then boldly spending nights away from home. It wasn’t consistent. I enjoyed the story but if I hadn’t read the author previously I’m not sure this book alone would have me anxiously waiting for the next in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2022
*eARC provided by NetGalley!*
Charlotte is probably the best aspect of this book. Parish allows her to be unabashedly kind and feminine without judgment, and that's not something I have seen in very much in my time reading romance.
On the other hand, it felt like too much was happening too quickly and it was capital s Stressful. I didn't feel like I was given the time to process all the things that happened.
Charlotte is probably the best aspect of this book. Parish allows her to be unabashedly kind and feminine without judgment, and that's not something I have seen in very much in my time reading romance.
On the other hand, it felt like too much was happening too quickly and it was capital s Stressful. I didn't feel like I was given the time to process all the things that happened.
December 12, 2022
Seductive, scandalous, and entertaining!
How to Win a Wallflower is a playful, heartwarming tale that sweeps you away to London during 1825 and into the life of the shy, handsome, newly appointed Viscount Harrow, John Barnesworth who, after living a quiet life surrounded by his inventions in Boston, returns home to find his family’s estates in shatters and relying on the help of his best friend’s little sister, the beautiful Lady Charlotte Stirling who may have been secretly pining for him for years.
The prose is amusing and light. The characters are loyal, supportive, and endearing. And the plot is a delightfully enchanting tale full of friendship, family, societal expectations, scheming behaviour, tricky situations, desire, danger, and steamy romance.
Overall, How to Win a Wallflower is an addictive, charming, enticing tale by Parish that I absolutely devoured and which is another fantastic addition to what is hands down one of my all-time favourite historical romance series.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
How to Win a Wallflower is a playful, heartwarming tale that sweeps you away to London during 1825 and into the life of the shy, handsome, newly appointed Viscount Harrow, John Barnesworth who, after living a quiet life surrounded by his inventions in Boston, returns home to find his family’s estates in shatters and relying on the help of his best friend’s little sister, the beautiful Lady Charlotte Stirling who may have been secretly pining for him for years.
The prose is amusing and light. The characters are loyal, supportive, and endearing. And the plot is a delightfully enchanting tale full of friendship, family, societal expectations, scheming behaviour, tricky situations, desire, danger, and steamy romance.
Overall, How to Win a Wallflower is an addictive, charming, enticing tale by Parish that I absolutely devoured and which is another fantastic addition to what is hands down one of my all-time favourite historical romance series.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2024
How to Win a Wallflower is original, emotional, and achingly romantic. I absolutely adored John and Charlotte! These are two lovable and vulnerable characters, healing each other with love and kindness.
John Barnesworth, an awkward and introverted engineer, is perfectly content living in his tiny shack in America. But when his spoiled brother dies unexpectedly, John is forced to return and take his place as the new viscount. Unfortunately for John, the estates are bankrupt, and he is betrothed to his brother’s cruel fiancée. Her obscenely large dowry may be the only solution to his money troubles. I’ve had a fondness for John since How to Survive a Scandal. Despite his extraordinary intelligence, John’s speech impediment has made him the subject of ridicule. Even his parents treated him poorly. Consequently, John avoids the ton like the plague.
In contrast, Lady Charlotte Stirling is a social butterfly. Charlotte thrives on social connection and she’s a champion of wallflowers. A do-gooder at heart, Charlotte is secretly in love with her brother’s best friend (John) since they were children. When Charlotte discovers John’s financial woes, she offers to help him. Together they embark on a daring scheme to pay off his debts.
Charlotte and John are perfect together even though they seem the most unlikely couple. She gives him the confidence he needs, and he shows her that it’s ok to put herself first. Their love story is tender, poignant, and sexy. That ridiculously romantic proposal in the rain is imprinted in my heart now. John is such a lovely romance hero! There are also shocking twists and turns that kept me on my toes. I do hope we’ll get William’s book. My heart broke for him in the last book, and I’m glad he’s on the road to recovery. This was a fun and thoroughly satisfying read. I can count on Samara Parish to bring the drama, emotion, and heartwarming romance.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for giving me the opportunity to read an e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
John Barnesworth, an awkward and introverted engineer, is perfectly content living in his tiny shack in America. But when his spoiled brother dies unexpectedly, John is forced to return and take his place as the new viscount. Unfortunately for John, the estates are bankrupt, and he is betrothed to his brother’s cruel fiancée. Her obscenely large dowry may be the only solution to his money troubles. I’ve had a fondness for John since How to Survive a Scandal. Despite his extraordinary intelligence, John’s speech impediment has made him the subject of ridicule. Even his parents treated him poorly. Consequently, John avoids the ton like the plague.
In contrast, Lady Charlotte Stirling is a social butterfly. Charlotte thrives on social connection and she’s a champion of wallflowers. A do-gooder at heart, Charlotte is secretly in love with her brother’s best friend (John) since they were children. When Charlotte discovers John’s financial woes, she offers to help him. Together they embark on a daring scheme to pay off his debts.
Charlotte and John are perfect together even though they seem the most unlikely couple. She gives him the confidence he needs, and he shows her that it’s ok to put herself first. Their love story is tender, poignant, and sexy. That ridiculously romantic proposal in the rain is imprinted in my heart now. John is such a lovely romance hero! There are also shocking twists and turns that kept me on my toes. I do hope we’ll get William’s book. My heart broke for him in the last book, and I’m glad he’s on the road to recovery. This was a fun and thoroughly satisfying read. I can count on Samara Parish to bring the drama, emotion, and heartwarming romance.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for giving me the opportunity to read an e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 14, 2022
I had a disappointing experience with a historical romance immediately prior to reading this, after not picking one up for awhile, and I was afraid I had lost my taste for the genre. I picked this one up hesitantly but flew through it in a day. I am happy to report that I have not, in fact, lost my taste for the genre -- it was just that one book.
I had greatly enjoyed Samara Parish's previous installation in this series, and I'm happy to say that I greatly enjoyed this one as well.
This time we have an unconventional Viscount, ill at ease with his newly acquired title, who would rather spend his time holed up in a solitary cabin with nothing but his myriad inventions to keep him company. He is scornful of and greatly dislikes society, and it is him the 'wallflower' in the title refers to -- not Lady Charlotte. He is gentle and kind and good and it was wonderful to get a softer, more intellectual hero.
Lady Charlotte is a social butterfly who spends her time helping others. Making clothing for orphans, chairing comittees, drawing wallflowers into the social scene, helping her brother forge political connections... She has her work cut out for her in convincing John that he should make a bit of an effort with society, but as they embark on a wild scheme to acquire enough money to save John's crumbling estates and her brother's neck, they learn that though seemingly too different they fit together perfectly.
There are obstacles, of course, not least of which is Charlotte's older brother -- one of John's few closest friends -- who seems determined to keep them apart as he doesn't think they will suit.
Some of the events strain credulity but I was completely engrossed in the twists and turns of the story and loved every minute. It reminded me of some of Georgette Heyer's whirlwind, ridiculous plots. I greatly appreciated that the spice didn't overwhelm the story or plot.
I would definitely recommend this if you are a historical romance fan, especially if you like unconventional heros and heroines - it ticked all the boxes for me.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for providing an early copy for review.
I had greatly enjoyed Samara Parish's previous installation in this series, and I'm happy to say that I greatly enjoyed this one as well.
This time we have an unconventional Viscount, ill at ease with his newly acquired title, who would rather spend his time holed up in a solitary cabin with nothing but his myriad inventions to keep him company. He is scornful of and greatly dislikes society, and it is him the 'wallflower' in the title refers to -- not Lady Charlotte. He is gentle and kind and good and it was wonderful to get a softer, more intellectual hero.
Lady Charlotte is a social butterfly who spends her time helping others. Making clothing for orphans, chairing comittees, drawing wallflowers into the social scene, helping her brother forge political connections... She has her work cut out for her in convincing John that he should make a bit of an effort with society, but as they embark on a wild scheme to acquire enough money to save John's crumbling estates and her brother's neck, they learn that though seemingly too different they fit together perfectly.
There are obstacles, of course, not least of which is Charlotte's older brother -- one of John's few closest friends -- who seems determined to keep them apart as he doesn't think they will suit.
Some of the events strain credulity but I was completely engrossed in the twists and turns of the story and loved every minute. It reminded me of some of Georgette Heyer's whirlwind, ridiculous plots. I greatly appreciated that the spice didn't overwhelm the story or plot.
I would definitely recommend this if you are a historical romance fan, especially if you like unconventional heros and heroines - it ticked all the boxes for me.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Forever for providing an early copy for review.
November 7, 2022
When John Barnesworth inherits unexpectedly, he abandons his solitude and returns to London to settle his brother's affairs, only to discover his estates are crumbling and he is now betrothed to his brother’s unpleasant fiancée. Her dowry might save him from ruin, but at what cost? His only hope lies with the vivacious, charming Lady Charlotte Stirling, whose audacious solution to John's troubles might actually work. If only he can keep his feelings for her out of the equation . . .
Lady Charlotte Stirling knows she can’t fall for John. He’s her brother’s best friend, he’s engaged to her mortal enemy, and he wants to return to America. Not to mention he’d never survive in her bustling social life. She can, however, try to solve his money problem. But the closer she gets to ensuring his freedom, the harder it is to let him go.
John and Charlotte are meant to be together. John was now an earl whether he wanted to be or not. Charlotte knows that he can't possibly be engaged to her mortal enemy.
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.
Lady Charlotte Stirling knows she can’t fall for John. He’s her brother’s best friend, he’s engaged to her mortal enemy, and he wants to return to America. Not to mention he’d never survive in her bustling social life. She can, however, try to solve his money problem. But the closer she gets to ensuring his freedom, the harder it is to let him go.
John and Charlotte are meant to be together. John was now an earl whether he wanted to be or not. Charlotte knows that he can't possibly be engaged to her mortal enemy.
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.
December 12, 2022
When John Barnesworth’s brother Walter dies he inherits & becomes Viscount Harrow, he abandons his solitude and returns to London to settle his brother's affairs, only to discover his estates are crumbling and he is now betrothed to his brother’s unpleasant fiancée, Lady Luella. Her dowry might save him from ruin, his only hope lies with the vivacious, charming Lady Charlotte Stirling, whose audacious solution to John's troubles might actually work. Charlotte knows she can’t fall for John. He’s her brother’s best friend, he’s engaged to her mortal enemy, and he wants to return to America.
The third book in the series & another well written delightful read, the characters had depth & were well portrayed, I really liked both John & Charlotte & was routing for them. There was quite a bit happening in the book with secrets, lies, some edge of the seats moments as well a an endearing romance. Things seemed to be going well until things went belly up. I also liked that Charlotte wasn’t the wallflower!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in the series & another well written delightful read, the characters had depth & were well portrayed, I really liked both John & Charlotte & was routing for them. There was quite a bit happening in the book with secrets, lies, some edge of the seats moments as well a an endearing romance. Things seemed to be going well until things went belly up. I also liked that Charlotte wasn’t the wallflower!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 28, 2022
I enjoyed this unique historical romance featuring an introverted Viscount hero and a social butterfly heroine.
My favorite romance is enemies-to-lovers, with a strong and hunky take-charge hero. Well, this book is different. The hero is the wallflower; a brilliant, socially awkward newly-made Viscount home from America. This was a nice change of pace, and I ended up enjoying this romance story.
The hero, John, has a challenge ahead of him when his brother dies and leaves him with a title, but a whole lot of debt. His childhood friend, Lady Charlotte has been in love with him since they first met. Charlotte is a social butterfly and her family believes that she wouldn’t be a good match for the reclusive Viscount. The couple work together to solve John’s money issues and have some interesting, and sometimes steamy, adventures along the way.
Thank you to @readforeverpub for this #gifted copy of How to Win a Wallflower by Samara Parish.
My favorite romance is enemies-to-lovers, with a strong and hunky take-charge hero. Well, this book is different. The hero is the wallflower; a brilliant, socially awkward newly-made Viscount home from America. This was a nice change of pace, and I ended up enjoying this romance story.
The hero, John, has a challenge ahead of him when his brother dies and leaves him with a title, but a whole lot of debt. His childhood friend, Lady Charlotte has been in love with him since they first met. Charlotte is a social butterfly and her family believes that she wouldn’t be a good match for the reclusive Viscount. The couple work together to solve John’s money issues and have some interesting, and sometimes steamy, adventures along the way.
Thank you to @readforeverpub for this #gifted copy of How to Win a Wallflower by Samara Parish.
September 25, 2022
4 out of 5 stars
This book was such a cute romance! Even though it is the third in the series, I read it without having read either of the other two. I will definitely be reading the first two in the series, but this one reads well enough as a standalone.
Lady Charlotte is in love with her older brother’s best friend. Even though it’s been years since she last saw John, Charlotte has still held out hope that there could be a possibility for something to grow between the two of them. When John’s brother dies unexpectedly, he returns to settle the huge debts his brother owed. The only option appears to be marrying his brother’s mean-spirited fiancée. Seeing an opportunity to help (and get closer to) John, Charlotte comes up with a scheme to settle his debts.
I loved Charlotte’s character! She is such a strong, likeable character. Even though her character seems in contrast with John’s introverted self, they really being out the best in each other! I loved reading John come alive and grow more confident in himself.
Even though I loved reading about John creating inventions, I wish the author had him come up with an invention original to John. I think lawnmowers and telegrams were a few of the things mentioned. While I still think it’s a cool twist to have had him be the one to “create” those ideas, it would still have been interesting to see him come up with his own idea.
Overall, this was such a cute romance! Strong women characters and a great character with John! I read this one super quickly, and I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves reading regency romance.
*Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and Samara Parish for a e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was such a cute romance! Even though it is the third in the series, I read it without having read either of the other two. I will definitely be reading the first two in the series, but this one reads well enough as a standalone.
Lady Charlotte is in love with her older brother’s best friend. Even though it’s been years since she last saw John, Charlotte has still held out hope that there could be a possibility for something to grow between the two of them. When John’s brother dies unexpectedly, he returns to settle the huge debts his brother owed. The only option appears to be marrying his brother’s mean-spirited fiancée. Seeing an opportunity to help (and get closer to) John, Charlotte comes up with a scheme to settle his debts.
I loved Charlotte’s character! She is such a strong, likeable character. Even though her character seems in contrast with John’s introverted self, they really being out the best in each other! I loved reading John come alive and grow more confident in himself.
Even though I loved reading about John creating inventions, I wish the author had him come up with an invention original to John. I think lawnmowers and telegrams were a few of the things mentioned. While I still think it’s a cool twist to have had him be the one to “create” those ideas, it would still have been interesting to see him come up with his own idea.
Overall, this was such a cute romance! Strong women characters and a great character with John! I read this one super quickly, and I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves reading regency romance.
*Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and Samara Parish for a e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
For Lady Charlotte Stirling, her brother's friend John Barnesworth has always been the one, but he's never seen her as anything other than his friend's little sister. After being in America for so long, he's returned to discover he has inherited the title, and has a responsibility to the estate. He needs help, and turns to Edward and Fiona, and to Charlotte, indirectly. The estate is in tatters, and he needs money to save the title after his brother's mismanagement. Honouring the engagement with Lady Luella as the fiancee of Viscount Harrow, he knows that her dowry will be enough to rectify the debts, but he can't stand the lady herself, and she seems to have a personal vendetta against Charlotte.
When I saw who the main characters were going to be in this book, I knew it would be a good one. The few scenes of Charlotte and John in How to Deceive the Duke were enough to whet the appetite, and I'm happy to say that this book lived up to expectations. Charlotte has been the perfect lady for so long, helping others and doing whatever she could for her brother. But she needed to be able to be herself, and with John, she could be. I hated the actions of Walter, John's brother, and Lady Luella. Just when you thought that John and Charlotte could be happy together, another spanner was thrown in the works. Honestly, I didn't know how they would be able to be together with how it was going, especially in the last 15% or so. It was slightly stressful waiting for the next scene, but the ending more than made up for it. Charlotte and John's romance was perfect for them, and I'm so happy they got their happy ending!
For Lady Charlotte Stirling, her brother's friend John Barnesworth has always been the one, but he's never seen her as anything other than his friend's little sister. After being in America for so long, he's returned to discover he has inherited the title, and has a responsibility to the estate. He needs help, and turns to Edward and Fiona, and to Charlotte, indirectly. The estate is in tatters, and he needs money to save the title after his brother's mismanagement. Honouring the engagement with Lady Luella as the fiancee of Viscount Harrow, he knows that her dowry will be enough to rectify the debts, but he can't stand the lady herself, and she seems to have a personal vendetta against Charlotte.
When I saw who the main characters were going to be in this book, I knew it would be a good one. The few scenes of Charlotte and John in How to Deceive the Duke were enough to whet the appetite, and I'm happy to say that this book lived up to expectations. Charlotte has been the perfect lady for so long, helping others and doing whatever she could for her brother. But she needed to be able to be herself, and with John, she could be. I hated the actions of Walter, John's brother, and Lady Luella. Just when you thought that John and Charlotte could be happy together, another spanner was thrown in the works. Honestly, I didn't know how they would be able to be together with how it was going, especially in the last 15% or so. It was slightly stressful waiting for the next scene, but the ending more than made up for it. Charlotte and John's romance was perfect for them, and I'm so happy they got their happy ending!
December 17, 2022
How to Win a Wallflower by Samara Parish is a historical romance. The novel is a best friend’s sister romance with several twists.
John Barnesworth never expected to be the one in charge, but when his brother dies suddenly in an accident, he is left in charge. His brother left the estate in shambles, no money, and nothing. John needed a lot of money to keep everything going. Then to top it off, he is supposed to be marrying an angry debutante that his brother set up.
Lady Charlotte Stirling is the best friend’s sister. She has had a thing for John all her life. To have him back and needing money, just makes the helping of him even better!
There are many twists and turns in the book, maybe even a few too many. I liked Charlotte, but I didn’t think the title was correct for her as she was fun and gregarious with everyone. I was not really impressed with the oldest brother - talk about a curmudgeon. I think I will try another one of Samara Parish’s novels before I make any decisions about the books in general. How to Win a Wallflower by Samara Parish was an okay read.
John Barnesworth never expected to be the one in charge, but when his brother dies suddenly in an accident, he is left in charge. His brother left the estate in shambles, no money, and nothing. John needed a lot of money to keep everything going. Then to top it off, he is supposed to be marrying an angry debutante that his brother set up.
Lady Charlotte Stirling is the best friend’s sister. She has had a thing for John all her life. To have him back and needing money, just makes the helping of him even better!
There are many twists and turns in the book, maybe even a few too many. I liked Charlotte, but I didn’t think the title was correct for her as she was fun and gregarious with everyone. I was not really impressed with the oldest brother - talk about a curmudgeon. I think I will try another one of Samara Parish’s novels before I make any decisions about the books in general. How to Win a Wallflower by Samara Parish was an okay read.
December 4, 2023
3.5 stars
This series has been a lot of fun and after seeing John throughout, I was eager to see how his story played out.
I really liked Charlotte and John. They're both good, loyal people who are sort of outcasts, only seen in society as two dimensional. Charlotte has had a bit of a crush on John her entire life and in quickly stepping in to help with John's problems does he see her as something other than his BFFs little sister. I thoroughly enjoyed reading these two figure things out.
Plot wise, it was mostly good. There's a lot a lot a lot of inner monologue and I thrive on dialogue. I wanted loads more talking between pretty much everyone, but especially Charlotte and John. At times, it felt like they were only scratching the surface of what was going on in their lives. The ending scene with Lulu was one of my favorites of the series and of course, the grand gesture was fantastic.
Overall, this has been a fun series and I can't wait to see what's next from Samara.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing a digital copy free of charge**
This series has been a lot of fun and after seeing John throughout, I was eager to see how his story played out.
I really liked Charlotte and John. They're both good, loyal people who are sort of outcasts, only seen in society as two dimensional. Charlotte has had a bit of a crush on John her entire life and in quickly stepping in to help with John's problems does he see her as something other than his BFFs little sister. I thoroughly enjoyed reading these two figure things out.
Plot wise, it was mostly good. There's a lot a lot a lot of inner monologue and I thrive on dialogue. I wanted loads more talking between pretty much everyone, but especially Charlotte and John. At times, it felt like they were only scratching the surface of what was going on in their lives. The ending scene with Lulu was one of my favorites of the series and of course, the grand gesture was fantastic.
Overall, this has been a fun series and I can't wait to see what's next from Samara.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing a digital copy free of charge**
October 31, 2022
"A wallflower will put everything on the line . . ."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Rebels with a Cause is an AMAZING historical romance series. I've fallen in love with every single one of Samara Parish's characters! You do not need to read them in any order by all means, these are great reads as a standalone.
Book 3: How to Win a Wallflower is an adorable grumpy x sunshine, forbidden love story of John Barnesworth who unexpectedly inherits his brother's title and estate - only to find himself deep in debt. However, his best friend's sister, a beautiful wallflower, comes to his rescue… well to everyone's rescue! She has such a wonderful heart and is such a genuine person.
For fans of Bridgerton and historical romance, this series brings you a twist of strong female leads, including some in a male profession which is rare historically! A twist of betrayal and venturing into dangerous situations, this story will leave you hanging on the edge!
Thank you to NetGalley, Samara Parish and Read Forever Pub for my ebook!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Rebels with a Cause is an AMAZING historical romance series. I've fallen in love with every single one of Samara Parish's characters! You do not need to read them in any order by all means, these are great reads as a standalone.
Book 3: How to Win a Wallflower is an adorable grumpy x sunshine, forbidden love story of John Barnesworth who unexpectedly inherits his brother's title and estate - only to find himself deep in debt. However, his best friend's sister, a beautiful wallflower, comes to his rescue… well to everyone's rescue! She has such a wonderful heart and is such a genuine person.
For fans of Bridgerton and historical romance, this series brings you a twist of strong female leads, including some in a male profession which is rare historically! A twist of betrayal and venturing into dangerous situations, this story will leave you hanging on the edge!
Thank you to NetGalley, Samara Parish and Read Forever Pub for my ebook!
December 3, 2022
3.5 Stars
This book evoked a lot of emotions, some felt very vital to the story, others just left me completed frustrated. There we’re definitely times when I wanted to absolutely throttle the FMC.
This book did have an amazing twist that I was not expecting, but the run around at the end of the book felt confusing and almost jumbled. The way the intimacy was handled in this book was also a little confusing. Closed door to open door to closed door again. Additional note, John’s glasses seem to disappear and reappear randomly through the book.
Readers could read this as a standalone, but the previous events of the prior books (especially #2) are heavily referred to.
This book evoked a lot of emotions, some felt very vital to the story, others just left me completed frustrated. There we’re definitely times when I wanted to absolutely throttle the FMC.
This book did have an amazing twist that I was not expecting, but the run around at the end of the book felt confusing and almost jumbled. The way the intimacy was handled in this book was also a little confusing. Closed door to open door to closed door again. Additional note, John’s glasses seem to disappear and reappear randomly through the book.
Readers could read this as a standalone, but the previous events of the prior books (especially #2) are heavily referred to.
December 28, 2022
I found this to be an emotional, romantic and throughly original. This was my first read by this author. I found myself really liking Charlotte but she seemed to be more sassy. Her character did not scream wallflower at all to me. This is a slow burn read with a lot going on in the plot. It has has a crazy twist in it that I was not expecting.I overall enjoyed this book and the writing style of Samara Parish.
January 18, 2023
This is the third book of Rebels with a Cause series but my first by this author. It's an opposites attract, brother's best friend trope story with a slow-burn romance. After his older brother dies, John unexpectedly inherits his title. He returns home and soon discovers the financial mess his brother has left behind. He is also faced with a betrothal contract that obligates him as the new viscount to uphold. Charlotte has always had a crush on John, and now that he is faced with such problems, she is more than eager to help him. She might also have an opportunity to win his heart in the process. John now notices Charlotte in a new light and he finds himself drawn to her. Charlotte is such a kind and generous character, always putting other's needs before herself. John helps her realize she needs to take of herself and her happiness as well.
The characters were likable and I enjoyed getting to know them and following their story. This was a lovely story and I enjoyed it. I would love to read more books by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The characters were likable and I enjoyed getting to know them and following their story. This was a lovely story and I enjoyed it. I would love to read more books by this author.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 29, 2023
Ok so I love Charlotte. Just so we are clear. She is fabulous. I love her strength and her charm and her determination and her kindness and her ingenuity. I love her! John was good too, but really, I'm here for Charlotte!!!
January 1, 2023
Much steamier than the other books in the series.
RTC
RTC
January 29, 2023
Every Samara Parish I've read has been fun & romantic and then suddenly in the third act you get a Kleypas-style absolutely bonkers conflict and this one did not disappoint
CW: Child abuse, bullying, sexual content
I work for the publisher; all opinions are my own.
CW: Child abuse, bullying, sexual content
I work for the publisher; all opinions are my own.
February 9, 2024
Rounding up a 3.75
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