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Wallflowers #4.5
Una navidad inolvidable
Faltan pocos dias para Navidad, y Rafe Bowman acaba de llegar de America para concertar su compromiso matrimonial con Natalie, la hermosa y educada hija de lord y lady Blandford. No hay duda de que el atractivo fisico de Rafe causara un gran impacto en la dama en cuestion, pero sus extravagantes modales americanos y su mala reputacion no son puntos a su favor. Pese a que esta habituado a jugar segun sus propias reglas, Rafe se da cuenta de que debera aprender las de la sociedad londinense. Pero ahora que las cuatro antiguas ""chicas florero"" han decidido ejercer de casamenteras, el resultado puede ser imprevisible... Una Navidad inolvidable nos lleva a un viaje al corazon en el Londres victoriano, para vivir junto a estos entranables protagonistas una aventura que hara de esta una Navidad para recordar.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published October 14, 2008
984 people are currently reading
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About the author
Lisa Kleypas
117 books31.2k followersLISA KLEYPAS is the RITA award-winning author of 21 novels. Her books are published in fourteen languages and are bestsellers all over the world. She lives in Washington State with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,310 reviews
May 25, 2017
Meh I might have liked it more if our hero Rafe wasn't courting and kissing the heroine's cousin all the while falling in love and making out with the heroine. Uh yeah I'm just not okay with that! I did like seeing all the other wallflowers which is why I gave the book 2 stars instead of 1.
August 17, 2015
Meh.... I maybe should have quit after St. Vincent's book because it went downhill from there.
Rafe, Lillian's brother, was supposed to be the hero of this book as he falls for Hannah - the cousin of the girl he's betrothed to. The problem was, I didn't really like him. I understand that he had a tough childhood and crappy parents, but it doesn't excuse some of the things he did. And, it all happened too fast. Insta-love, Victorian style.
So, Rafe meets Hannah, Lady Natalie's poor cousin, so that he can get information about his betrothed. Only, the second he meets her, he is in love. He's rude to her and then he forces himself upon her on their first meeting. He grabs her and kisses her - but it's not cute or romantic, it's basically assaulting this girl. Of course, she's feeling all these feels so it's okay, I guess. Except, it's not. Why is it romantic to physically restrain and force himself on this girl? And, although he is courting her cousin, he continues to strong-arm Hannah into physical relations with him every time they are alone. There was too much of an ick-factor to me. I like an alpha-male as much as any girl, but he didn't have the charm or appeal that it takes to pull off a good rake. He came across more like a bully to me.
Rafe, Lillian's brother, was supposed to be the hero of this book as he falls for Hannah - the cousin of the girl he's betrothed to. The problem was, I didn't really like him. I understand that he had a tough childhood and crappy parents, but it doesn't excuse some of the things he did. And, it all happened too fast. Insta-love, Victorian style.
So, Rafe meets Hannah, Lady Natalie's poor cousin, so that he can get information about his betrothed. Only, the second he meets her, he is in love. He's rude to her and then he forces himself upon her on their first meeting. He grabs her and kisses her - but it's not cute or romantic, it's basically assaulting this girl. Of course, she's feeling all these feels so it's okay, I guess. Except, it's not. Why is it romantic to physically restrain and force himself on this girl? And, although he is courting her cousin, he continues to strong-arm Hannah into physical relations with him every time they are alone. There was too much of an ick-factor to me. I like an alpha-male as much as any girl, but he didn't have the charm or appeal that it takes to pull off a good rake. He came across more like a bully to me.
December 9, 2016
4.5/5
Absolutely wonderful.
This was a very lovely read. I immensely enjoyed this love story of Raff and Hannah. I swooned all over Raff and found Hannah really adorable. Not only did we get the romance between this couple, but also a little bit of the other four wallflowers and her men's sweet times together.
There were many beautiful moments that made me feel light-hearted and brought a big smile to my face. And there were some heartbreaking ones as well. Lisa Kleypas always delivers such great drama—so emotional and memorable. The ending was slightly predictable, but it left me truly satisfied.
My only complaint was that I only got a glimpse of Simon in this novella. I loved this man and still want more of him!
All in all, this was another great Christmas read and also a fantastic addition to the series. Highly recommended to fans of historical romances!
Absolutely wonderful.
This was a very lovely read. I immensely enjoyed this love story of Raff and Hannah. I swooned all over Raff and found Hannah really adorable. Not only did we get the romance between this couple, but also a little bit of the other four wallflowers and her men's sweet times together.
There were many beautiful moments that made me feel light-hearted and brought a big smile to my face. And there were some heartbreaking ones as well. Lisa Kleypas always delivers such great drama—so emotional and memorable. The ending was slightly predictable, but it left me truly satisfied.
My only complaint was that I only got a glimpse of Simon in this novella. I loved this man and still want more of him!
All in all, this was another great Christmas read and also a fantastic addition to the series. Highly recommended to fans of historical romances!
December 26, 2021
“And she had the feeling that these women encouraged each other’s eccentricities, and relished their differences.”
Perfect start to finish.
This series, plus The Hathaways and Ravenels will most likely become yearly rereads for me.
It’s that good. They’re that comforting.
Perfect start to finish.
This series, plus The Hathaways and Ravenels will most likely become yearly rereads for me.
It’s that good. They’re that comforting.
January 3, 2024
I’m doing the unthinkable, I’m changing my review from 4 star to 3 after rereading this. Even MJ Wells as narrator couldn’t fix this terrible book. It’s so rapey. My gawd, what was Kleypas thinking with this one? Nice for updates on the Wallflowers but the love story between Rafe and Hannah was terrible. The hero was so unlikeable and does not require consent before frequently grabbing and kissing the heroine despite her protests. This is assault, yikes. This book needs trigger warnings. And why does Matthew Swift have an Irish accent in this one but in his own book, with the same narrator, he is American (which he is, he’s from Boston)? The only worthwhile thing in this book is the interlude between Evie and Sebastian at 74%. Do yourself a favour and don’t bother with this one. I don’t think it was well thought out.
September 14, 2010
What more can be said about this sweet, passionate book that hasn't already been said? With over 150 reviews here at GR and over 1,000 ratings (Am I the last person on Earth to read this book?), I'm sure just about every view has been expressed already. But I might as well throw my two cents in too, maybe I'll come up with something everyone else missed (highly doubtful).:)
First of all, this is one of my favorite series ever. I don't read a whole lot of historicals, but I have been a fan of LK for a long time. For the past couple of years I've been reading mostly contemporaries, but with so many of my GR buddies praising this series, I had to see what all the fuss was about! Why oh why did I wait so long to join the Wallflowers fan club?
I adored this book! I love a good Cinderella story. And I love a scandalous rake. And I love Cinderella and a rake together! I loved Hannah Appleton and dark and delicious Rafe (his name just oozes sexiness) Bowman--their chemistry was out of this world. I loved how Hannah got under Rafe's skin, how she pierced his cool veneer, how she caused him to want something like he never had before! I loved their witty dialogue, Hannah's put downs, their passionate interludes, and I loved how Hannah got Rafe to consider his happiness and his future. I liked Hannah a lot. She was a strong, practical woman with a kind and gentle heart. I wanted her to win Rafe's cynical heart! I loved seeing Rafe struggling with his feelings for her as he fell under her spell. The letter that he wrote to her expressing those feelings (that was tossed in the fire but recovered by a maid)--holy smokes but that was hot! And the little toy soldier that he gave her and the story behind it? It just about broke my heart. It made me understand Rafe so much better. And the jealousy he showed after hearing about Hannah's marriage proposal from another suitor---and what he did about it--hawt! Oh yes, and the 'first time' in the bachelor's house? Wow.
Well enough about Hannah and Rafe. They were perfect together and I loved them. Another thing I loved about this book was that we got to see all the wallflowers and their sexy husbands again as they gather at Stony Cross manor for a Christmas celebration. Lillian and Westcliff have prominent roles (as expected, since Rafe is Lillian's brother)-- and could there be a crack in their happy marriage? Westcliff, really?! I think Lillian lost her mind for a moment there! Annabelle and Simon Hunt are as passionate as ever, Daisy and Matthew are going strong (and Daisy the booklover has a new career!), and Evie is pining for St. Vincent (who is staying with his sickly father for a while). When St. Vincent finally arrives (with the 'family jewels') and disappears with Evie for a few days behind closed bedroom doors (*sigh*)...ah, that made me happy.:) Lucky, lucky girl.
Once again, when the four wallflowers got together, it was magic. I love when they get to chatting, because all kinds of topics come up. I especially liked hearing Daisy's ideas about how to know when your man is cheating. And I especially loved the aftermath when Lillian dared to suggest to Westcliff that he may be losing interest in her...
If I have one minor complaint, it was the length of the book! Too short! I thought LK coud've easily added at least another 50 pages. I wanted more! The updates she related in the epilogue? I would have loved to read some actual scenes, rather than been told what happened. The wedding, the birth of a baby, the reconciliation in the Bowman family...oh, that would've made for some good reading. Too bad she had to end things so abruptly.
Now I'm sad that I have to say goodbye to a bunch of characters who I regard as dear friends. I know some of them pop up in LK's next series (The Hathaways), but somehow it won't be the same. My wish is that one day LK visits these characters again--aren't there more Bowman brothers to write about? Oh well, for now I'll have to move on and try to fall in love with the Hathaways. So long, Wallflowers, I'm going to miss you. 4 1/2 stars
Rafe...
First of all, this is one of my favorite series ever. I don't read a whole lot of historicals, but I have been a fan of LK for a long time. For the past couple of years I've been reading mostly contemporaries, but with so many of my GR buddies praising this series, I had to see what all the fuss was about! Why oh why did I wait so long to join the Wallflowers fan club?
I adored this book! I love a good Cinderella story. And I love a scandalous rake. And I love Cinderella and a rake together! I loved Hannah Appleton and dark and delicious Rafe (his name just oozes sexiness) Bowman--their chemistry was out of this world. I loved how Hannah got under Rafe's skin, how she pierced his cool veneer, how she caused him to want something like he never had before! I loved their witty dialogue, Hannah's put downs, their passionate interludes, and I loved how Hannah got Rafe to consider his happiness and his future. I liked Hannah a lot. She was a strong, practical woman with a kind and gentle heart. I wanted her to win Rafe's cynical heart! I loved seeing Rafe struggling with his feelings for her as he fell under her spell. The letter that he wrote to her expressing those feelings (that was tossed in the fire but recovered by a maid)--holy smokes but that was hot! And the little toy soldier that he gave her and the story behind it? It just about broke my heart. It made me understand Rafe so much better. And the jealousy he showed after hearing about Hannah's marriage proposal from another suitor---and what he did about it--hawt! Oh yes, and the 'first time' in the bachelor's house? Wow.
Well enough about Hannah and Rafe. They were perfect together and I loved them. Another thing I loved about this book was that we got to see all the wallflowers and their sexy husbands again as they gather at Stony Cross manor for a Christmas celebration. Lillian and Westcliff have prominent roles (as expected, since Rafe is Lillian's brother)-- and could there be a crack in their happy marriage? Westcliff, really?! I think Lillian lost her mind for a moment there! Annabelle and Simon Hunt are as passionate as ever, Daisy and Matthew are going strong (and Daisy the booklover has a new career!), and Evie is pining for St. Vincent (who is staying with his sickly father for a while). When St. Vincent finally arrives (with the 'family jewels') and disappears with Evie for a few days behind closed bedroom doors (*sigh*)...ah, that made me happy.:) Lucky, lucky girl.
Once again, when the four wallflowers got together, it was magic. I love when they get to chatting, because all kinds of topics come up. I especially liked hearing Daisy's ideas about how to know when your man is cheating. And I especially loved the aftermath when Lillian dared to suggest to Westcliff that he may be losing interest in her...
If I have one minor complaint, it was the length of the book! Too short! I thought LK coud've easily added at least another 50 pages. I wanted more! The updates she related in the epilogue? I would have loved to read some actual scenes, rather than been told what happened. The wedding, the birth of a baby, the reconciliation in the Bowman family...oh, that would've made for some good reading. Too bad she had to end things so abruptly.
Now I'm sad that I have to say goodbye to a bunch of characters who I regard as dear friends. I know some of them pop up in LK's next series (The Hathaways), but somehow it won't be the same. My wish is that one day LK visits these characters again--aren't there more Bowman brothers to write about? Oh well, for now I'll have to move on and try to fall in love with the Hathaways. So long, Wallflowers, I'm going to miss you. 4 1/2 stars
Rafe...
December 27, 2010
Ah, how does Lisa Kleypas do it? I think I have Lisa Kleypas romance receptors in my brain. She always knows how to hit my satiety centers. I had heard complaints that this was too short. It was perfect for me. I loved how we got updates and interludes with the Wallflowers, we were able to see the incredible, enduring friendships between Annabelle, Lillian, Evie, and Daisy. It was also great seeing the Wallflowers interact with their husbands, and to see how deleriously happy each of them were in their marriages. And I loved how they ended up adopting Hannah into their circle like she was the long-lost addition to their quartet. And the moments between St. Vincent and Evie were sigh-worthy. I just adore this couple! I love how their private relationship is so rich and their own, but anyone can see that St. Vincent more than meets Evie's needs and gives her a deep quiet contentment and happiness.
And, on top of that, we were treated a brand new, beautiful romance. Rafe was such a bad boy! I couldn't get over how outrageous he was, kissing Hannah practically right after he met her! And what a kiss. The chemistry between them was simply outstanding! I really liked Hannah. She was practical, intelligent, kind, loving, loyal, passionate, and perceptive. I could see why Rafe fell for her, and I definitely saw Rafe's appeal. He was simmering hot! I was glad he did right by Hannah. He had the power to break her heart into tiny, little pieces; but despite his low opinion of himself, and his reputation, he wasn't a callous man. He was capable of intense, enduring love. I was so glad that Hannah and Rafe got their happy ending.
As usual, Ms. Kleypas's writing shines brightly. She does the historical Victorian period so well, so beautiful but authentic. She has such wonderful humorous moments in her books. This was a great book to read on Christmas Eve. I buzzed through, and ended it with a happy sigh! Thanks for the Christmas gift, Ms. Kleypas!
And, on top of that, we were treated a brand new, beautiful romance. Rafe was such a bad boy! I couldn't get over how outrageous he was, kissing Hannah practically right after he met her! And what a kiss. The chemistry between them was simply outstanding! I really liked Hannah. She was practical, intelligent, kind, loving, loyal, passionate, and perceptive. I could see why Rafe fell for her, and I definitely saw Rafe's appeal. He was simmering hot! I was glad he did right by Hannah. He had the power to break her heart into tiny, little pieces; but despite his low opinion of himself, and his reputation, he wasn't a callous man. He was capable of intense, enduring love. I was so glad that Hannah and Rafe got their happy ending.
As usual, Ms. Kleypas's writing shines brightly. She does the historical Victorian period so well, so beautiful but authentic. She has such wonderful humorous moments in her books. This was a great book to read on Christmas Eve. I buzzed through, and ended it with a happy sigh! Thanks for the Christmas gift, Ms. Kleypas!
July 30, 2016
Heartwarming, lovely romance with hero Rafe Bowman planning on marrying one girl (Natalie) but falling in love with another (Hannah Appleton).
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved Rafe, he was sexy, handsome, and charming. He was Lillian and Daisy's brother from America. The Bowman's made their fortune from a soap-manufacturing business and it is being arranged (by their families) that Rafe marry Natalie (Rafe's father is really pushing the marriage.) Rafe finds Natalie pleasing and thinks the marriage would be alright, but while he spends a few weeks at Stony Cross Park in Hampshire for a few weeks visiting relatives for the Christmas holidays he finds himself falling for Natalie's cousin/chaperone, Hannah Appleton. Hannah was a wonderful heroine, sweet and outspoken at times. She was also very warmhearted. I liked when she read "A Christmas Carol" to the children in the library. And I laughed at the part when she tried to help a distraught little boy retrieve Rafe's father's toupee out of the large/tall Christmas tree.
This was a short and sweet romance with a cute epilogue. Another winner by Lisa Kleypas!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved Rafe, he was sexy, handsome, and charming. He was Lillian and Daisy's brother from America. The Bowman's made their fortune from a soap-manufacturing business and it is being arranged (by their families) that Rafe marry Natalie (Rafe's father is really pushing the marriage.) Rafe finds Natalie pleasing and thinks the marriage would be alright, but while he spends a few weeks at Stony Cross Park in Hampshire for a few weeks visiting relatives for the Christmas holidays he finds himself falling for Natalie's cousin/chaperone, Hannah Appleton. Hannah was a wonderful heroine, sweet and outspoken at times. She was also very warmhearted. I liked when she read "A Christmas Carol" to the children in the library. And I laughed at the part when she tried to help a distraught little boy retrieve Rafe's father's toupee out of the large/tall Christmas tree.
This was a short and sweet romance with a cute epilogue. Another winner by Lisa Kleypas!
December 11, 2021
This was so fun! I really loved seeing the wallflowers again and highly recommend picking this up only after reading the Wallflower series. You'll be able to appreciate seeing them all married so much more! I love their friendship and relationships with their significant others and they end up helping the heroine in her own romance, which was absolutely adorable.
This romance was a lot of fun and I loved how the hero was adamantly into our heroine. He was supposed to court Natalie, but instead he finds himself drawn to her companion. This was so cute and I loved how Hannah wanted nothing to do with Rafe, but she also couldn't stop herself from wanting to be around him. Rafe definitely acts like an alpha hero, so know that going in. This was such a fun and short Christmas romance and I definitely recommend picking it up!
This romance was a lot of fun and I loved how the hero was adamantly into our heroine. He was supposed to court Natalie, but instead he finds himself drawn to her companion. This was so cute and I loved how Hannah wanted nothing to do with Rafe, but she also couldn't stop herself from wanting to be around him. Rafe definitely acts like an alpha hero, so know that going in. This was such a fun and short Christmas romance and I definitely recommend picking it up!
December 15, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I’m not sure why this made me super emotional. It’s not like I’m catching up with all these characters as I’ve only read Evie’s book, well both hers and her son Gabriel’s book (which is one of my all time fave historical romances.)
At first I didn’t think I’d like this one believing it was about Rafe and Natalie but when I realized it was about him and Natalie’s poor companion Hannah, I was all in.
I loved Hannah from the get go, so sassy, she always stood her ground. The more both I and Rafe got to know her you see how sweet and thoughtful she is. I mean it’s no wonder that he fell hard for her.
Rafe was your equivocal rake, the man got around in New York with no plans to change. It’s like the saying goes why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free. I mean until you meet the cow of your dreams and his evolution as he fell in love with the wrong girl totally made me swoon.
Of course it was lovely catching up with Evie, I really fell in love with her and St Vincent in Devil in Spring after they’d been married for decades and had become grandparents. To see them so in love and still getting down is the best.
This also made me want to go back and read the rest of The Wallflower books, especially Lillian and Marcus, they sound freaking hot!
Overall a wonderful little holiday historic romance. Reminded me why I love this trope and that I need to go back to it.
I’m not sure why this made me super emotional. It’s not like I’m catching up with all these characters as I’ve only read Evie’s book, well both hers and her son Gabriel’s book (which is one of my all time fave historical romances.)
At first I didn’t think I’d like this one believing it was about Rafe and Natalie but when I realized it was about him and Natalie’s poor companion Hannah, I was all in.
I loved Hannah from the get go, so sassy, she always stood her ground. The more both I and Rafe got to know her you see how sweet and thoughtful she is. I mean it’s no wonder that he fell hard for her.
Rafe was your equivocal rake, the man got around in New York with no plans to change. It’s like the saying goes why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free. I mean until you meet the cow of your dreams and his evolution as he fell in love with the wrong girl totally made me swoon.
Of course it was lovely catching up with Evie, I really fell in love with her and St Vincent in Devil in Spring after they’d been married for decades and had become grandparents. To see them so in love and still getting down is the best.
This also made me want to go back and read the rest of The Wallflower books, especially Lillian and Marcus, they sound freaking hot!
Overall a wonderful little holiday historic romance. Reminded me why I love this trope and that I need to go back to it.
October 16, 2008
Quote ...
"Standing from the bath, Evie dried herself and donned a velvet robe that buttoned along the front. She heard the door open again. "Back to w-warm the bed?" she asked.
But the voice that answered wasn't the maid's.
"As a matter of fact ... yes."
Evie stilled at the sound of the deep, silky murmur.
"I passed the maid on the stairs and told her she wouldn't be needed tonight," he continued. "'If there's one thing I do well,' I told her, 'it's warming my wife's bed.'"
*sigh* St. Vincent only appeared in three and a half pages of A Wallflower Christmas, but they were three REALLY GOOD pages that gave me a much-needed Devil in Winter fix. =)
Of course, the Wallflowers made appearances as did their new husbands, but a majority of the book was dedicated to Rafe Bowman (Lily and Daisy's oldest brother). Rafe is expected to take over the Bowman family soap business and propose to Lady Natalie Blandford on Christmas Eve at Lord Westcliff's manor. However, Lady Natalie's paid companion and cousin, Hannah, catches the eye of the handsome rake and he falls in love with her. When Rafe attempts to write a love letter (an incredible love letter that provokes emotion I might add!), the charred remains of the letter are found in a fireplace by a young maid and confusion ensues.
I didn't care for Hannah very much at first, but it didn't take long for me to warm up to her. She was very sweet and endearing whereas Natalie was spoiled and too educated in worldly ways. Hannah protected her cousin and cared for her even when she knew that the arranged marriage between Natalie and Rafe was to be announced.
The forbidden romance between Rafe and Natalie was sweet, heart-warming and heated - an incredible combination written in true Kleypas style. The dialogue between the Wallflowers is entertaining and the few glimpses we are given into their marriages are satisfying. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it if you have read the previous Wallflower books.
"Standing from the bath, Evie dried herself and donned a velvet robe that buttoned along the front. She heard the door open again. "Back to w-warm the bed?" she asked.
But the voice that answered wasn't the maid's.
"As a matter of fact ... yes."
Evie stilled at the sound of the deep, silky murmur.
"I passed the maid on the stairs and told her she wouldn't be needed tonight," he continued. "'If there's one thing I do well,' I told her, 'it's warming my wife's bed.'"
*sigh* St. Vincent only appeared in three and a half pages of A Wallflower Christmas, but they were three REALLY GOOD pages that gave me a much-needed Devil in Winter fix. =)
Of course, the Wallflowers made appearances as did their new husbands, but a majority of the book was dedicated to Rafe Bowman (Lily and Daisy's oldest brother). Rafe is expected to take over the Bowman family soap business and propose to Lady Natalie Blandford on Christmas Eve at Lord Westcliff's manor. However, Lady Natalie's paid companion and cousin, Hannah, catches the eye of the handsome rake and he falls in love with her. When Rafe attempts to write a love letter (an incredible love letter that provokes emotion I might add!), the charred remains of the letter are found in a fireplace by a young maid and confusion ensues.
I didn't care for Hannah very much at first, but it didn't take long for me to warm up to her. She was very sweet and endearing whereas Natalie was spoiled and too educated in worldly ways. Hannah protected her cousin and cared for her even when she knew that the arranged marriage between Natalie and Rafe was to be announced.
The forbidden romance between Rafe and Natalie was sweet, heart-warming and heated - an incredible combination written in true Kleypas style. The dialogue between the Wallflowers is entertaining and the few glimpses we are given into their marriages are satisfying. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it if you have read the previous Wallflower books.
November 1, 2010
Rafe Bowman has come all the way from America to England to spend Christmas at Stony Cross Park and to meet his future bride, Lady Natalie Blanford. The marriage was arranged by their parents, but Rafe isn’t quite convinced that this method of finding one’s wife is the best of ideas. There’s also the rub that his father has threatened to disinherit Rafe if he doesn’t agree to the match. But still, Rafe wants to meet her, get to know her and then decide if the marriage is to his advantage.
Lady Natalie Blanford is charming and beautiful and highly sought after. She’s instantly attracted to the brash American and does everything in her power to encourage him to propose. She’s convinced she has succeeded and is excitedly awaiting a Christmas Eve proposal.
It should be a suitable arrangement, but what do you do when you find that you want something more than merely “suitable?” That’s what Rafe has to decide when he finds himself in love with Lady Natalie’s companion, Hannah, an opinionated young woman who believes Rafe Bowman to be entirely unsuitable marriage material for Lady Natalie, but find herself caring far too deeply for him.
One of my favorite things about this story is that we get to revisit the original 4 Wallflowers who have now been married for awhile. It was a joy to watch them with their husbands and see how their relationships have progressed and how their love continues to flourish.
As always, Ms. Kleypas has given us characters to love and to cheer for. Her ability to bring the characters to life, making them real people, is what makes her one of my favorite authors. A Wallflower Christmas is a story filled with humor, hope and love. These are men and women who have stayed with me over the months since I first met them, and I know will stay with me for years to come.
Can the magic of Christmas ensure everyone’s “happily ever after?” You’ll have to read the story to find out!
March 1, 2022
This was such a wonderful ending to the Wallflowers series! It’s basically a Christmas wrap-up novella for the series/couples. There is a romance too, between Lillian and Daisy’s brother Rafe and the cousin of the woman he’s supposed to marry. Rafe is an American rogue who’s forced to find a bride if he wants a stake in his father’s company, so he chooses a woman he knows he won't fall in love with. But as soon as he meets Hannah, his betrothed's cousin, he’s smitten. The romance is really sweet but the highlight of this novella for me was definitely the Wallflowers. I loved being back with the 4 of them, seeing them all happy and in love with THE most devoted husbands. I honestly don’t know why I never read this one until now but I’m so glad I finally did!
February 14, 2024
This was my first regency romance by Lisa Klepas and I really enjoyed it! A group of four charming friends who all have roadblocks to finding a suitable match in society have banded together. Daisy and Lillian’s brother Rafe comes to London from the US with the intent to marry a heiress on his father’s orders. However when he meets her cousin and lady’s maid Hannah, who is of no means, it’s love at first sight. This was a charming novella and I loved how FUNNY it was (also steamy in places with some hot scenes between Hannah and Rafe, so hang on to your knickers!), and especially loved the close relationship between the women.
August 14, 2021
Re-read Aug'2021:
Re-read Oct'2019:
Loved revisiting the wonderful Wallflowers!!
Original read/review Jun'2010:
5 stars – Historical Romance
This is a sweet, charming, and romantic conclusion to the wonderful, enchanting Wallflowers series. I just didn't want this series to ever end. I really hope Lisa Kleypas revisits these beloved characters again someday.
Re-read Oct'2019:
Loved revisiting the wonderful Wallflowers!!
Original read/review Jun'2010:
5 stars – Historical Romance
This is a sweet, charming, and romantic conclusion to the wonderful, enchanting Wallflowers series. I just didn't want this series to ever end. I really hope Lisa Kleypas revisits these beloved characters again someday.
December 30, 2018
Un broche bonito para acabar la serie de los floreros pero no memorable. Me ha gustado volver a saber de las protagonistas anteriores y, sobre todo, de sus maridos! Pero la historia de amor principal me ha parecido muy apresurada y hasta esa erotica carta, no me estaba convenciendo nada el personaje de Rafe. Eso sí, la declaración de amor final es maravillosa, marca de la casa.
December 15, 2024
Reread. It’s still as I remember. A joyous reunion between friends. Perfection.
🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
“Beautiful Hannah. If you were mine, I'd lay you on silk sheets and wrap you up in ropes of pearls, and feed you honey from a silver spoon. Of course, you wouldn't be able to make all your high-minded judgments if you were a fallen woman...but you wouldn't care. Because I would pleasure you, Hannah, every night, all night, until you forgot your own name. Until you were willing to do things that would shock you in the light of day. I would debauch you from your head down to your innocent little toes-"
And that my friends, is the power of Rafe Bowman. God help me, this book was exquisite. The perfect ending to The Wallflowers series ending with Lillian & Daisy’s brother, Rafe. I love stories where the hero cuts himself from his inheritance to marry for love. Hannah was perfect for him, even if she was below his station.
I loved seeing all my old friends, especially Lord Marcus Westcliff. He is my absolute fave.
I’m just a puddle of feels, and so sad it’s over.
🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
“Beautiful Hannah. If you were mine, I'd lay you on silk sheets and wrap you up in ropes of pearls, and feed you honey from a silver spoon. Of course, you wouldn't be able to make all your high-minded judgments if you were a fallen woman...but you wouldn't care. Because I would pleasure you, Hannah, every night, all night, until you forgot your own name. Until you were willing to do things that would shock you in the light of day. I would debauch you from your head down to your innocent little toes-"
And that my friends, is the power of Rafe Bowman. God help me, this book was exquisite. The perfect ending to The Wallflowers series ending with Lillian & Daisy’s brother, Rafe. I love stories where the hero cuts himself from his inheritance to marry for love. Hannah was perfect for him, even if she was below his station.
I loved seeing all my old friends, especially Lord Marcus Westcliff. He is my absolute fave.
I’m just a puddle of feels, and so sad it’s over.
December 12, 2021
ADORED this. Rafe...sigh....I loved him! Any Wallflower fan that hasn't read this needs to ASAP.
December 12, 2022
D.H. Lawrence's "Lady Chatterley's Lover" intimate love passages came to mind when I read similar passages from "A Wallflower Christmas." The setting is London, 1845, and the Christmas holiday parties are in full swing among the aristocrats and nobility. Rafe Bowman has just arrived from New York in search of a wife due to the insistence of his Father, Thomas Bowman. The Bowman's are an extremely wealthy family due to their business of soap manufacturing.
Thomas Bowman desires his son to marry a girl from the nobility, such as Lady Natalie Blandford. But Rafe, while liking Lady Natalie, is not drawn to her. Rafe has set his sights, however, on Lady Natalie's poor cousin, Hanna Appleton.
Ms. Kleypas, in my view, successfully captured a Victorian romance and made it credible.
Thomas Bowman desires his son to marry a girl from the nobility, such as Lady Natalie Blandford. But Rafe, while liking Lady Natalie, is not drawn to her. Rafe has set his sights, however, on Lady Natalie's poor cousin, Hanna Appleton.
Ms. Kleypas, in my view, successfully captured a Victorian romance and made it credible.
April 13, 2017
Dulce, ingeniosa y divertida.
Perfecta para cerrar la serie "Wallflowers".
Me despido de estas historias preciosas y de estos personajes adorables con una gran sonrisa. ❤️
Perfecta para cerrar la serie "Wallflowers".
Me despido de estas historias preciosas y de estos personajes adorables con una gran sonrisa. ❤️
October 20, 2014
God, I love Lisa Kleypas!
Revisiting all the wallflowers was just perfect. I loved this series and was utterly pleased with Rafe's story. He was a sexy and smoldering beast of a man who hid behind his debauchery and I loved it! I loved Hannah as well, she was such a strong and soothing presence for Rafe and I was so glad that the girl behind the scenes stole his heart rather than that intended for him.
As with all of LK's work, she writes with passion and intelligence, humor and precision. Giving us Rafe's story but somehow reacquainting us with the couples of the other books was done seamlessly. I loved seeing Westcliff and Lillian, Evie and St. Vincent, Daisy and Matthew and of course Annabelle and Simon. My favorite couples and their accompanying books were in Devil in Winter and Scandal in Spring. The scene with Evie and St. Vincent moved me, I missed them so much! Him and Matthew, damn those men! Sigh. Another scene that had me was between Lillian and Westcliff, in a stable no less! Hot.
The letter Rafe wrote for Hannah brought tears to my eyes, it was so powerful and so desperate with want. I can't say enough about LK! She writes so beautifully, so eloquently, so evocatively that I miss her words as soon as I'm done. And the way she writes her male characters? It's impressive to say the least. They're testosterone-filled, sexy men. She captures the male characterization like no other author and that goes for her contemporary romance as well. This was a bittersweet farewell to a series that made me cry, swoon, laugh and sigh. I literally can't wait for the expected last book in the Travises series and her anticipated HR with Avon books. This is my FAVORITE author, and everything by her is highly recommended! Goodbye Wallflowers! muaaahhh!
Revisiting all the wallflowers was just perfect. I loved this series and was utterly pleased with Rafe's story. He was a sexy and smoldering beast of a man who hid behind his debauchery and I loved it! I loved Hannah as well, she was such a strong and soothing presence for Rafe and I was so glad that the girl behind the scenes stole his heart rather than that intended for him.
As with all of LK's work, she writes with passion and intelligence, humor and precision. Giving us Rafe's story but somehow reacquainting us with the couples of the other books was done seamlessly. I loved seeing Westcliff and Lillian, Evie and St. Vincent, Daisy and Matthew and of course Annabelle and Simon. My favorite couples and their accompanying books were in Devil in Winter and Scandal in Spring. The scene with Evie and St. Vincent moved me, I missed them so much! Him and Matthew, damn those men! Sigh. Another scene that had me was between Lillian and Westcliff, in a stable no less! Hot.
The letter Rafe wrote for Hannah brought tears to my eyes, it was so powerful and so desperate with want. I can't say enough about LK! She writes so beautifully, so eloquently, so evocatively that I miss her words as soon as I'm done. And the way she writes her male characters? It's impressive to say the least. They're testosterone-filled, sexy men. She captures the male characterization like no other author and that goes for her contemporary romance as well. This was a bittersweet farewell to a series that made me cry, swoon, laugh and sigh. I literally can't wait for the expected last book in the Travises series and her anticipated HR with Avon books. This is my FAVORITE author, and everything by her is highly recommended! Goodbye Wallflowers! muaaahhh!
December 1, 2024
4 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If only I could visit you as a foreigner goes into a new country, learn the language of you, wander past all borders into every private and secret place, I would stay forever. I would become a citizen of you.
A Wallflower Christmas is a holiday novella where our beloved former Wallflowers are gathered at Stony Cross for Christmas—and to help Rafe Bowman, Lillian and Daisy's brother who just arrived from America, court Lady Natalie.
Miss Hannah Appleton, Lady Natalie's companion and cousin, is invited to Stony Cross for tea to discuss and play matchmaking with the Ladies. But as soon as Hannah meets Rafe she is convinced that he is no match for the sweet and vivacious Natalie, not to mention he is a scoundrel through and through and easily managed to seduce her upon their first meeting.
Despite Natalie being the perfect match and even as they courted, Rafe could not get Hannah out of his mind. It was agony to have see her around and not have her. There's almost a forbidden line between Rafe and Hannah.
Hannah takes her role as Natalie's companion very seriously, but even as she lingers in the corners of the ballroom and hides behind ambitious mamas and wallflowers, nothing will keep Rafe's eyes off her.
Hannah, in a way, becomes the fifth honorary Wallflower and who is better to help her out with her dilemma than the four original Wallflowers themselves?
While the book mainly follows the sizzling romance between Hannah and Rafe, he gets glimpses of the Wallflowers friendship and marital life. I love these ladies so much and I wish the novella focused more on them and maybe give Rafe and Hannah a different book.
If Lisa decides to publish another holiday novella? I'm ready to devour it!
Content warning: there was a scene or two where Rafe's actions and seduction came off non-consensual at the start, just as a warning.
If only I could visit you as a foreigner goes into a new country, learn the language of you, wander past all borders into every private and secret place, I would stay forever. I would become a citizen of you.
A Wallflower Christmas is a holiday novella where our beloved former Wallflowers are gathered at Stony Cross for Christmas—and to help Rafe Bowman, Lillian and Daisy's brother who just arrived from America, court Lady Natalie.
Miss Hannah Appleton, Lady Natalie's companion and cousin, is invited to Stony Cross for tea to discuss and play matchmaking with the Ladies. But as soon as Hannah meets Rafe she is convinced that he is no match for the sweet and vivacious Natalie, not to mention he is a scoundrel through and through and easily managed to seduce her upon their first meeting.
Despite Natalie being the perfect match and even as they courted, Rafe could not get Hannah out of his mind. It was agony to have see her around and not have her. There's almost a forbidden line between Rafe and Hannah.
Hannah takes her role as Natalie's companion very seriously, but even as she lingers in the corners of the ballroom and hides behind ambitious mamas and wallflowers, nothing will keep Rafe's eyes off her.
Hannah, in a way, becomes the fifth honorary Wallflower and who is better to help her out with her dilemma than the four original Wallflowers themselves?
While the book mainly follows the sizzling romance between Hannah and Rafe, he gets glimpses of the Wallflowers friendship and marital life. I love these ladies so much and I wish the novella focused more on them and maybe give Rafe and Hannah a different book.
If Lisa decides to publish another holiday novella? I'm ready to devour it!
Content warning: there was a scene or two where Rafe's actions and seduction came off non-consensual at the start, just as a warning.
December 14, 2024
Reread, Dec 2024:
I love the Wallflowers series so much and this reread I recently did for a readalong I cohosted was the best thing ever. If you’ve read the Wallflowers series and haven’t read this novella, highly recommend! We get glimpses and updates of all the Wallflowers couples, as well as a new romance in here for Rafe Bowman, the older brother of 2 of the wallflower heroines! I just love this one: all the winter/holiday activities (tree skirt, decorating the tree, sleigh rides, holiday food and drinks), being back at the beloved Stony Cross Park, the toy soldier, the letter, Daisy writing a “naughty book”, Sebastian showing up and decorating Evie in jewels, the Wallflowers very “first honorary wallflower”, and the epilogue updates for everyone! 🥹🥰
“the only gift I’ll ever want is you”
1st Read, Nov 2020:
The Wallflowers series were my first Lisa Kleypas reads and what made me fall in love with her writing and characters! 😍 She is one of those authors that I just treasure and adore her books so much that I don’t want to get through them too quickly. Lol Sooo I have been saving this Christmas novella from the series for the whole year to read it around the holidays and of course it was so worth the wait!
If you have read the Wallflowers series and haven’t read this novella, I definitely recommend you do! It was like the best extended epilogue ever with being able to see each of the couples from the series & I just loved seeing it so so much! 😍 The opening scene of the OG wallflower heroines making a velvet Christmas tree skirt was just the perfect way to open the story and bring me back to these lovely characters. While all the original couples are featured in this story, it is also the sweetest & angstiest romance between Rafe Bowman (Lillian & Daisy’s brother) and Hannah (a lady’s companion to the girl he’s supposed to be courting). I loved meeting Rafe, he’s the oldest brother in the Bowman family and his father has always expected so much from him & yet has never been satisfied with him. Rafe and his parents have traveled from America to spend Christmas with Lillian, Daisy and their husbands & friends at Stony Cross Park where he’s supposed to meet & court Lady Natalie per his fathers request. He meets her companion Hannah first and the sparks just fly between these 2.
This one also has all the cutest Christmas activities: reading of A Christmas Carol, making/eating peppermint candy ribbons, decorating a Christmas tree, night-time sleigh rides, a Christmas Eve ball. This novella was just everything. I loved Rafe and Hannah. I loved seeing our OG Wallflowers couples. I loved how the Wallflowers took Hannah under their wing and became her fairy godmothers. Every sentence was just a treat and such a delight to read and made me want to drop everything and binge all the rest of the Lisa Kleypas I have waiting on my shelves. 😍😆
I love the Wallflowers series so much and this reread I recently did for a readalong I cohosted was the best thing ever. If you’ve read the Wallflowers series and haven’t read this novella, highly recommend! We get glimpses and updates of all the Wallflowers couples, as well as a new romance in here for Rafe Bowman, the older brother of 2 of the wallflower heroines! I just love this one: all the winter/holiday activities (tree skirt, decorating the tree, sleigh rides, holiday food and drinks), being back at the beloved Stony Cross Park, the toy soldier, the letter, Daisy writing a “naughty book”, Sebastian showing up and decorating Evie in jewels, the Wallflowers very “first honorary wallflower”, and the epilogue updates for everyone! 🥹🥰
“the only gift I’ll ever want is you”
1st Read, Nov 2020:
The Wallflowers series were my first Lisa Kleypas reads and what made me fall in love with her writing and characters! 😍 She is one of those authors that I just treasure and adore her books so much that I don’t want to get through them too quickly. Lol Sooo I have been saving this Christmas novella from the series for the whole year to read it around the holidays and of course it was so worth the wait!
If you have read the Wallflowers series and haven’t read this novella, I definitely recommend you do! It was like the best extended epilogue ever with being able to see each of the couples from the series & I just loved seeing it so so much! 😍 The opening scene of the OG wallflower heroines making a velvet Christmas tree skirt was just the perfect way to open the story and bring me back to these lovely characters. While all the original couples are featured in this story, it is also the sweetest & angstiest romance between Rafe Bowman (Lillian & Daisy’s brother) and Hannah (a lady’s companion to the girl he’s supposed to be courting). I loved meeting Rafe, he’s the oldest brother in the Bowman family and his father has always expected so much from him & yet has never been satisfied with him. Rafe and his parents have traveled from America to spend Christmas with Lillian, Daisy and their husbands & friends at Stony Cross Park where he’s supposed to meet & court Lady Natalie per his fathers request. He meets her companion Hannah first and the sparks just fly between these 2.
This one also has all the cutest Christmas activities: reading of A Christmas Carol, making/eating peppermint candy ribbons, decorating a Christmas tree, night-time sleigh rides, a Christmas Eve ball. This novella was just everything. I loved Rafe and Hannah. I loved seeing our OG Wallflowers couples. I loved how the Wallflowers took Hannah under their wing and became her fairy godmothers. Every sentence was just a treat and such a delight to read and made me want to drop everything and binge all the rest of the Lisa Kleypas I have waiting on my shelves. 😍😆
May 24, 2017
Hasta pronto mis queridas Wallflowers!!
Esta historia pudo ser más, al ser un libro tan corto no se alcanza a desarrollar bien el romance entre los protagonistas de hecho hasta el final es cuando lo vemos y es todo apresurado, pero es una buena historia para cerrar esta serie que he adorado.
Mi parte favorita es cuando sale Sebastián, yo suspiro de amor cada vez que sale, se ilumina la habitación.
Al final podemos ver como la vida les sonríe a las wallflowers y como le ha ido en su vida, Daisy consagrándose como escritora, a las demás con sus niñas, aww me encantó que la niña de Evie fuera pelirroja aunque me hubiera gustado ver a Sebastian como papá (si estoy obsesionada con él.)
Esta historia pudo ser más, al ser un libro tan corto no se alcanza a desarrollar bien el romance entre los protagonistas de hecho hasta el final es cuando lo vemos y es todo apresurado, pero es una buena historia para cerrar esta serie que he adorado.
Mi parte favorita es cuando sale Sebastián, yo suspiro de amor cada vez que sale, se ilumina la habitación.
Al final podemos ver como la vida les sonríe a las wallflowers y como le ha ido en su vida, Daisy consagrándose como escritora, a las demás con sus niñas, aww me encantó que la niña de Evie fuera pelirroja aunque me hubiera gustado ver a Sebastian como papá (si estoy obsesionada con él.)
January 6, 2015
What a lovely read, I do wish the epilogue were longer since it seems this is the last book in the series. I'm still intrigued by Lillian and Daisy's other brothers, I wish we had met them.
October 14, 2025
4.5 stars This was such a great story, though know beforehand that this is a novella. I say that, because there could have been much more development of the characters and the story and everything happened a little too quickly and easily. It's 200 pages though, so what does one expect? Had this story been expanded into a full-length novel, I have a feeling it would have been a 5 star book (though one never knows of course - I had thought there was absolutely no possible way that I wouldn't absolutely love Leo and Cat's story ...).
Rafe Bowman was a thrilling scoundrel and I'm always a fan of any bad-boy-good-girl/wallflower pairing, so I was predisposed to like the story. Hannah is not a "wallflower" in the Evie vein, and is actually quite outspoken and straightforward, though she was also sometimes unsure, not self-confident, and often preferred to fade into the background. This description may make her sound like many other heroines you've read, but for some reason, I found both her and Rafe to be unique characters, though in a very subtle way that I can't really put my finger on. Each was an interesting blend of contrasts, and had this been a novel, I think the story could have been greatly enhanced by an exploration of those different facets.
My only plot/character complain was Lady Natalie Blandford, Hannah's cousin and Rafe's possible-intended: that girl drove me nuts; I found her spoiled, self-absorbed, and selfish; and I did not understand at all why Hannah had any fondness for her, let alone considered her her best friend, nor how Rafe (or her other suitors) could have any positive feelings about her. She's apparently beautiful, but that's pretty much it - I saw no evidence of her apparent intelligence or kindness. (Her name is very appropriate: she's supremely bland).
For all Wallflower fans, we see a heavy amount of the four women and their other halves. Two of the couples have their own love scenes, and while normally I don't like it when a book has too much of a focus on any secondary (or tertiary) romance(s), in this case, the novella-aspect made it so that it didn't bother me. The story is short and light in a way that makes it unlikely to give much satisfaction to readers who aren't Wallflower fans.
OH!!! I can't believe I forgot to mention the best thing and my absolute favorite part of the book: THE LETTER. ::HUGE SIGH:: Rafe Bowman can write me letters anytime he wants! Honestly, that was undoubtedly the sweetest, tenderest, hottest, most wonderful part (among many, I might add).
(Written on August 28, 2010)
Rafe Bowman was a thrilling scoundrel and I'm always a fan of any bad-boy-good-girl/wallflower pairing, so I was predisposed to like the story. Hannah is not a "wallflower" in the Evie vein, and is actually quite outspoken and straightforward, though she was also sometimes unsure, not self-confident, and often preferred to fade into the background. This description may make her sound like many other heroines you've read, but for some reason, I found both her and Rafe to be unique characters, though in a very subtle way that I can't really put my finger on. Each was an interesting blend of contrasts, and had this been a novel, I think the story could have been greatly enhanced by an exploration of those different facets.
My only plot/character complain was Lady Natalie Blandford, Hannah's cousin and Rafe's possible-intended: that girl drove me nuts; I found her spoiled, self-absorbed, and selfish; and I did not understand at all why Hannah had any fondness for her, let alone considered her her best friend, nor how Rafe (or her other suitors) could have any positive feelings about her. She's apparently beautiful, but that's pretty much it - I saw no evidence of her apparent intelligence or kindness. (Her name is very appropriate: she's supremely bland).
For all Wallflower fans, we see a heavy amount of the four women and their other halves. Two of the couples have their own love scenes, and while normally I don't like it when a book has too much of a focus on any secondary (or tertiary) romance(s), in this case, the novella-aspect made it so that it didn't bother me. The story is short and light in a way that makes it unlikely to give much satisfaction to readers who aren't Wallflower fans.
OH!!! I can't believe I forgot to mention the best thing and my absolute favorite part of the book: THE LETTER. ::HUGE SIGH:: Rafe Bowman can write me letters anytime he wants! Honestly, that was undoubtedly the sweetest, tenderest, hottest, most wonderful part (among many, I might add).
(Written on August 28, 2010)
February 20, 2017
She made him want to be very, very bad.
I loved that we got to spend more time with my favorite wallflowers and their spouses, it was definitely my favorite part of this book.
If only I could visit you as a foreigner goes into a new country, learn the language of you, wander past all borders into every private and secret place, I would stay forever. I would become a citizen of you.
Finally we got to meet one of Lillian and Daisy’s brothers. Rafe Bowman has come to England on business and to meet his possible future wife. I loved that Rafe reminded me so much of Lillian, his wickedness and how outspoken he was. And I really loved the instant attraction between him and Hannah, who was the cousin of Natalie, the woman he was supposed to marry. The hostility between him and Hannah, and their wonderful banter was a lot of fun. Especially since Rafe had a hard time staying away from Hannah, even though he knew he shouldn’t be interested in her.
You would say it's too soon to feel this way. You would ask how I could be so certain. But some things can't be measured by time. Ask me an hour from now. Ask me a month from now. A year, ten years, a lifetime. The way I love you will outlast every calendar, clock, and every toll of every bell that will ever be cast.
Hannah was a great heroine, kind and a bit of a smart mouth, which I of course adored. The only thing I couldn’t understand was her support of Natalie, who was dreadful, so shallow and vain, and at times treated Hannah awfully.
I’m so terribly sad to see the end of this fantastic series, I have loved every moment of it. Luckily I will be re-reading it many times in the future. Highly recommended.
April 19, 2025
This novella follows on pretty closely from the Wallflowers novels, which I have reread recently and enjoyed all over again. The MMC of this one, Rafe Bowman, is an American businessman visiting England. He is the brother of two of the wallflowers, Lillian and Daisy.
Hannah, the MFC, is a completely new character introduced for this story. Hannah is considered by many to be a 'nobody' - no dowry, no aristocratic title, no extraordinary beauty. She is only attending Westcliff's Christmas house party as a companion to Lady Natalie, a much prettier and aristocratic young heiress. But from the moment Rafe and Hannah meet, the attraction and chemistry between the two of them is immediate.
When reading novellas, you just have to accept that the action will be compressed and the character development won't be very deep. But Ms Kleypas has still done a fine job, considering the limitations of this format. The MCs are likeable, and their relationship, although rushed, is quite convincing.
There are a couple of other bonuses as well. We see the Wallflowers themselves, and spend a little time with each couple. That's lovely (if you've read the other books of course!) And then there's the Christmas theme. I didn't read this novella at Christmas time, but still enjoyed the way it was referenced throughout the story. There's all the fun of the giant Christmas tree, balls, decorations etc. There are also a couple of sweet scenes where Hannah reads Dickens' A Christmas Carol aloud to a group of eager children. Having read this moving and charmingly sentimental book myself, I particularly enjoyed these sections.
So, a sweet read, but mainly recommended for those who've already read the Wallflowers series.
Hannah, the MFC, is a completely new character introduced for this story. Hannah is considered by many to be a 'nobody' - no dowry, no aristocratic title, no extraordinary beauty. She is only attending Westcliff's Christmas house party as a companion to Lady Natalie, a much prettier and aristocratic young heiress. But from the moment Rafe and Hannah meet, the attraction and chemistry between the two of them is immediate.
When reading novellas, you just have to accept that the action will be compressed and the character development won't be very deep. But Ms Kleypas has still done a fine job, considering the limitations of this format. The MCs are likeable, and their relationship, although rushed, is quite convincing.
There are a couple of other bonuses as well. We see the Wallflowers themselves, and spend a little time with each couple. That's lovely (if you've read the other books of course!) And then there's the Christmas theme. I didn't read this novella at Christmas time, but still enjoyed the way it was referenced throughout the story. There's all the fun of the giant Christmas tree, balls, decorations etc. There are also a couple of sweet scenes where Hannah reads Dickens' A Christmas Carol aloud to a group of eager children. Having read this moving and charmingly sentimental book myself, I particularly enjoyed these sections.
So, a sweet read, but mainly recommended for those who've already read the Wallflowers series.
January 4, 2012
For a short(er) story, this felt complete. Not only do we get to know the eldest Bowman brother, but we get a lot of insight into the rest of the wallflowers and their husbands. Not just tiny snippets, either. They each get a significant shout out, and because I've come to know them all so well, this was just wonderful. I kept getting lumps in my throat. Sooo glad Ms. Kleypas decided to dig a little deeper with them!
Aside from that, Rafe and Hannah's story also felt like a full novel though it wasn't. Rafe comes to England because Mr. Bowman, once again, decides to match make. Only this time, he's matched the wrong people. Rafe's eye is soon caught by his almost intended's companion, Hannah. After a short time, this American rake is ga ga over this disapproving English miss, and he doesn't know how to handle himself. He writes her a letter that had me saying, "Oooooh!" It's so romantic!
My favorite line from the story is from Hannah's cousin, speaking of Rafe: "But he has a sort of perpetual irreverance...one wonders if he could ever be sincere about anything at all." Imagine speaking like that in everyday conversation! I love historical romance!
Great end to the series! I wish all fabulous series had a wrap-up book like this.
Aside from that, Rafe and Hannah's story also felt like a full novel though it wasn't. Rafe comes to England because Mr. Bowman, once again, decides to match make. Only this time, he's matched the wrong people. Rafe's eye is soon caught by his almost intended's companion, Hannah. After a short time, this American rake is ga ga over this disapproving English miss, and he doesn't know how to handle himself. He writes her a letter that had me saying, "Oooooh!" It's so romantic!
My favorite line from the story is from Hannah's cousin, speaking of Rafe: "But he has a sort of perpetual irreverance...one wonders if he could ever be sincere about anything at all." Imagine speaking like that in everyday conversation! I love historical romance!
Great end to the series! I wish all fabulous series had a wrap-up book like this.
October 30, 2008
I think this is one of the fastest books I've ever read! You’re turning the pages so quickly that suddenly it’s the end and you wish it would have continued after the epilogue –which was very sweet.
It was a good story overall, nice to see the Wallflowers again, but I'd have liked to have seen more of them. Each Wallflower has about two pages or so just for her and her hubby and you get that warm nostalgic feel for the previous books in the series. Personally I loved St Vincent and Evie and Lillian and Marcus’ parts ;)
The hero, Rafe, is excellent. He’s this brash American who doesn’t mince words and does the things the way he wants including grabbing and kissing unsuspecting women all the while saying stuff like “that’s how we do it in America” (lol!). It would have been better if there was more tension between him and Hannah, but what little there was was well-done.
The book is unfortunately too short and some important things seemed rushed, but it was still a good read overall. Lots of smiles all around, some good banter between the h/h, funny Wallflower scheming and basically a nice story to get you into the Christmas spirit.
It was a good story overall, nice to see the Wallflowers again, but I'd have liked to have seen more of them. Each Wallflower has about two pages or so just for her and her hubby and you get that warm nostalgic feel for the previous books in the series. Personally I loved St Vincent and Evie and Lillian and Marcus’ parts ;)
The hero, Rafe, is excellent. He’s this brash American who doesn’t mince words and does the things the way he wants including grabbing and kissing unsuspecting women all the while saying stuff like “that’s how we do it in America” (lol!). It would have been better if there was more tension between him and Hannah, but what little there was was well-done.
The book is unfortunately too short and some important things seemed rushed, but it was still a good read overall. Lots of smiles all around, some good banter between the h/h, funny Wallflower scheming and basically a nice story to get you into the Christmas spirit.
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