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Almost Royal #1
If the Shoe Fits
NOT ALL FAIRYTALES END AT MIDNIGHT Elle Davenport is no princess—she just dresses up as one for her job at a local theme park. But when she gets the call that she’s won a contest to live and work at a real-life castle in Virginia, she finally feels like she’s found her calling. If she’s successful, her venture could become permanent, and that sounds like Elle’s idea of the perfect modern-day fairytale. There’s only one the castle’s grumpy—and sexy—new owner wants her gone as soon as possible. Theo Langdon never imagined he’d inherit the title of Earl of Highcastle so young. With his grandfather’s recent death, he needs to sell Rosemont Castle so he can return to London. If only he wasn’t butting heads with the vivacious new property manager at every corner. Although he’s got a life waiting for him in London, Rosemont Castle suddenly feels a lot like home, thanks to Elle. As the clock winds down on her time at the castle, he’ll have to reconcile his obligations in London with the American woman who’s stolen his heart.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2018
69 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Lacey
37 books2,354 followersRachel Lacey is an award-winning contemporary romance author and semi-reformed travel junkie. She's been climbed by a monkey on a mountain in Japan, gone scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, and camped out overnight in New York City for a chance to be an extra in a movie. These days, the majority of her adventures take place on the pages of the books she writes. She lives in the mountains of Vermont with her family and a variety of rescue pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 15, 2018
Favorite Quote:
I’m used to thinking about life in black and white, but you’ve made me see all the beautiful colors in between…
My Review:
What a clever premise! I adored this delightful book and all the thoughtful and well-crafted storylines as well as the ingenious fine touches that gave it sparkle. As an animal lover, I particularly appreciated the creative workings of the Fairy Tails program, which provided visiting guests the opportunity to interact and bond with adoptable shelter pets while staying at their inn.
Rachel Lacey has mad skills. The writing was pleasantly entertaining, engaging, lushly detailed, and laced with levity, delicious steam, and insightful observations into and from the characters inner musings. The story flowed smoothly and her characters were unique, witty, and enticing; I was enamored with each and look forward to delving more deeply into each one during future installments.
I’m used to thinking about life in black and white, but you’ve made me see all the beautiful colors in between…
My Review:
What a clever premise! I adored this delightful book and all the thoughtful and well-crafted storylines as well as the ingenious fine touches that gave it sparkle. As an animal lover, I particularly appreciated the creative workings of the Fairy Tails program, which provided visiting guests the opportunity to interact and bond with adoptable shelter pets while staying at their inn.
Rachel Lacey has mad skills. The writing was pleasantly entertaining, engaging, lushly detailed, and laced with levity, delicious steam, and insightful observations into and from the characters inner musings. The story flowed smoothly and her characters were unique, witty, and enticing; I was enamored with each and look forward to delving more deeply into each one during future installments.
October 22, 2023
IF THE SHOE FITS is such a cute Cinderella retelling. Three friends win an opportunity to work in a castle and manage it as an inn. But when they get there, they find the owner, who is descended from English royalty, wants to sell and move back to England to get on with his life. This was adorable with lots of animals from a shelter up for adoption, great chemistry between the hero and heroine, and wonderful friendships.
October 8, 2018
5 - "It all feels like something out of a fairy tale…" Stars!
The first book in Rachel Lacey’s new Almost Royal series, was a perfect introduction to Rosemont Castle, Virginia as well as Ella Davenport and her friends Megan & Ruby. If The Shoe Fits is Ella’s story, and it fit me as a reader perfectly.
"I’m used to thinking about my life in black and white…you’ve made me see all the beautiful colours in-between."
Ella’s and Theo’s romance captured me from the beginning, the unique setting, likeable characters and a really well thought out and original story-line that just pulls you in from the first paragraph, add in rescue dogs and cats, a healthy dose of sexy-times, and a little light mystery and this is a book that I pretty much read in one sitting.
Theo Langdon might carry himself with the elegance and class befitting his title, but she’d seen him let down his guard. She’d heard dirty words come from his mouth. She’d felt the raw force of his passion, and dammit, there was no forgetting it.
If you haven’t read Rachel Lacey before, this is definitely a good book to start with, the story is one of her best yet and the set-up for the rest of the series, has just left me wanting more.
"When you jump you, you go all in."
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The first book in Rachel Lacey’s new Almost Royal series, was a perfect introduction to Rosemont Castle, Virginia as well as Ella Davenport and her friends Megan & Ruby. If The Shoe Fits is Ella’s story, and it fit me as a reader perfectly.
"I’m used to thinking about my life in black and white…you’ve made me see all the beautiful colours in-between."
Ella’s and Theo’s romance captured me from the beginning, the unique setting, likeable characters and a really well thought out and original story-line that just pulls you in from the first paragraph, add in rescue dogs and cats, a healthy dose of sexy-times, and a little light mystery and this is a book that I pretty much read in one sitting.
Theo Langdon might carry himself with the elegance and class befitting his title, but she’d seen him let down his guard. She’d heard dirty words come from his mouth. She’d felt the raw force of his passion, and dammit, there was no forgetting it.
If you haven’t read Rachel Lacey before, this is definitely a good book to start with, the story is one of her best yet and the set-up for the rest of the series, has just left me wanting more.
"When you jump you, you go all in."
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
October 9, 2024
I'll be honest and say that I struggled to get off the ground with IF THE SHOE FITS. I ended up putting it down after only a few chapters and letting it sit for a week or so before coming back to it. I found the beginning to be slow but it does pick up as Elle, Ruby, and Megan get their business off the ground. I loved the idea of the Fairy Tails Program and the dogs were just adorable throughout the story. Elle starts out a bit adrift in life; she's working as a theme park princess and doesn't really seem to have a lot of ambition. But as she works on improving Rosemont Castle, it's clear that Elle is a smart and hard working woman who dives into things and gives them her whole heart. Though I never really connected with Elle I did like her as a person and a character.
While Elle plays the part of our Cinderella, Theo is supposed to be our Prince Charming but his desire to sell Rosemont Castle makes him a bit of a "villain" at first. With his grandfather's passing, Theo left the responsibility of Earl at a much earlier age then he was expecting. He greatly feels the pressure to return to England and uphold the duties his grandfather let fall by the wayside. But when Theo meets Elle he just can't turn her away without giving her a chance. Theo doesn't believe he'll change his mind but he agrees to let the girls give their hotel and dog adoption program a chance. Of course things get complicated when he begins a personal relationship with Elle and while Theo might be good at compartmentalizing business and pleasure, Elle has a softer heart in these matters.
Overall, I liked this book but it doesn't stand out for me because I just never connected with the characters. However, the ending had some great moments that left me excited for more in the series.
Copy provided by author for honest review
Content Warning: Discussion of mental illness and suicide
While Elle plays the part of our Cinderella, Theo is supposed to be our Prince Charming but his desire to sell Rosemont Castle makes him a bit of a "villain" at first. With his grandfather's passing, Theo left the responsibility of Earl at a much earlier age then he was expecting. He greatly feels the pressure to return to England and uphold the duties his grandfather let fall by the wayside. But when Theo meets Elle he just can't turn her away without giving her a chance. Theo doesn't believe he'll change his mind but he agrees to let the girls give their hotel and dog adoption program a chance. Of course things get complicated when he begins a personal relationship with Elle and while Theo might be good at compartmentalizing business and pleasure, Elle has a softer heart in these matters.
Overall, I liked this book but it doesn't stand out for me because I just never connected with the characters. However, the ending had some great moments that left me excited for more in the series.
Copy provided by author for honest review
Content Warning: Discussion of mental illness and suicide
October 9, 2018
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
From the first book I read of Lacey I was hooked. She's one of those authors that just write the type of books that I want to read.
It's a match made in heaven.
When she started with the self publishing I was a little worried. Sometimes it seems that author that self publish either lose their writing momentum or that their books suffer for it. I'm glad to say that hasn't happened with Lacey.
She's still writing like before giving us wonderful stories.
This new series by her, Almost Royal, sounded so cute. I couldn't wait to read it. The whole idea appealed to me. Or what I understood of the idea did. I kinda wish the author was a little clearer on what the girls wanted to do.
I didn't let that bother me and kept reading. I'm so glad that I did. I really liked Elle and her friends. They are so much fun. To give everything up and move away for a dream. I'm not sure I could do that.
I also liked Theo and wanted so badly for him to keep his small town roots. In a way he was so conflicted and pulled in to many directions. He wanted to do the right thing for his family but is it the right thing for him?
So much fun stuff happen in this story and I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed it and want more of this series. NOW! I will have to wait till 2019. I'm sighing here. I really have to learn not to rush things.
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ARC received for a honest review
From the first book I read of Lacey I was hooked. She's one of those authors that just write the type of books that I want to read.
It's a match made in heaven.
When she started with the self publishing I was a little worried. Sometimes it seems that author that self publish either lose their writing momentum or that their books suffer for it. I'm glad to say that hasn't happened with Lacey.
She's still writing like before giving us wonderful stories.
This new series by her, Almost Royal, sounded so cute. I couldn't wait to read it. The whole idea appealed to me. Or what I understood of the idea did. I kinda wish the author was a little clearer on what the girls wanted to do.
I didn't let that bother me and kept reading. I'm so glad that I did. I really liked Elle and her friends. They are so much fun. To give everything up and move away for a dream. I'm not sure I could do that.
I also liked Theo and wanted so badly for him to keep his small town roots. In a way he was so conflicted and pulled in to many directions. He wanted to do the right thing for his family but is it the right thing for him?
So much fun stuff happen in this story and I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed it and want more of this series. NOW! I will have to wait till 2019. I'm sighing here. I really have to learn not to rush things.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
July 2, 2019
This was a very average straight-forward read with no major drama.
September 21, 2018
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Rachel Lacey's last two books, I was eager to see she was starting a new series. And this one did not disappoint in any way! When Elle and her friends are given a once in a lifetime opportunity to live in a castle and operate their new business plan, they jump at the opportunity. The only thing better than living in a castle would be if the castle included it's very own Prince Charming. Well, maybe Theo isn't exactly Prince Charming but I wouldn't send him away!
This was a wonderful take on the tale of Cinderella but with an adult twist. And I really enjoyed how for a while I just wasn't sure how the story and the relationship was going to work out, even though of course I knew it would but it kept me guessing. Really looking forward to more in this series, since I really want to know how things work out for Megan and Ruby.
This was a wonderful take on the tale of Cinderella but with an adult twist. And I really enjoyed how for a while I just wasn't sure how the story and the relationship was going to work out, even though of course I knew it would but it kept me guessing. Really looking forward to more in this series, since I really want to know how things work out for Megan and Ruby.
October 3, 2018
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
I'm always a sucker for a good fairy tale style romance, so I was beyond excited when I was asked to read and review this book. I'm pleased to say it didn't disappoint!
This story focused on the new Earl, Theo, and Elle, although it does serve as an introduction to the other heroines in the series. My biggest problem with this story was the lack of connection I felt toward Theo and Elle. I didn't actually get connected to them until almost the end of the book! I did like Elle's determination and resourcefulness throughout the book, which made her easier to connect with when the big twist happened. Theo came across as too reserved to be likable, but I did like how he changed because of Elle. The setting was amazing, made even more special to me for watching Downton Abbey. The premise was very unique as well, and I found the rescue animals especially endearing.
All things considered, this was a great introduction to a new series and I can't wait for Ruby and Megan's books!
I'm always a sucker for a good fairy tale style romance, so I was beyond excited when I was asked to read and review this book. I'm pleased to say it didn't disappoint!
This story focused on the new Earl, Theo, and Elle, although it does serve as an introduction to the other heroines in the series. My biggest problem with this story was the lack of connection I felt toward Theo and Elle. I didn't actually get connected to them until almost the end of the book! I did like Elle's determination and resourcefulness throughout the book, which made her easier to connect with when the big twist happened. Theo came across as too reserved to be likable, but I did like how he changed because of Elle. The setting was amazing, made even more special to me for watching Downton Abbey. The premise was very unique as well, and I found the rescue animals especially endearing.
All things considered, this was a great introduction to a new series and I can't wait for Ruby and Megan's books!
September 20, 2018
I am a hopeless romantic by nature and when I first read the blurb for this book I was totally hooked. What woman who is a TRUE romantic doesn't want to live in a real life castle. Elle and her friends get to experience it first hand in this book. Throw in basically a real life prince, even though his actual title is an Earl, and it makes for some interesting reading for sure.
The chemistry between Elle and Theo is evident right from the start and very panty melting. I seriously had to fan myself several times to cool down. I was a bit concerned at first how the animal adopting aspect was going to play out but Rachel Lacey did a fantastic job with the concept of incorporating pet adoptions with the inn/castle theme. I totally wanted to adopt Remington myself.
I also have to admit that I really wasn't sure how this one was going to end. I figured there would be a happily ever after, but wasn't quite sure from which angle. I thought this book was well written. It was sexy and fun with a bit of mystery attached. I can't wait to see if Ruby and Megan find their HEA as well. I loved their characters and they both deserve it. Especially Megan after what happens to her, read it and see for yourself what I mean.
The chemistry between Elle and Theo is evident right from the start and very panty melting. I seriously had to fan myself several times to cool down. I was a bit concerned at first how the animal adopting aspect was going to play out but Rachel Lacey did a fantastic job with the concept of incorporating pet adoptions with the inn/castle theme. I totally wanted to adopt Remington myself.
I also have to admit that I really wasn't sure how this one was going to end. I figured there would be a happily ever after, but wasn't quite sure from which angle. I thought this book was well written. It was sexy and fun with a bit of mystery attached. I can't wait to see if Ruby and Megan find their HEA as well. I loved their characters and they both deserve it. Especially Megan after what happens to her, read it and see for yourself what I mean.
October 7, 2018
A person doesn't need a fancy title to make an impact. If the Shoe Fits reexamines the fairy tale dream and teaches a valuable lesson along the way. Rachel Lacey turns a childhood fantasy into reality for three women who've kind of lost their way. All it takes is a cheesy contest and a slightly bruised Prince Charming to swoop in and save the day. Elle and Theo are opinionated, lost souls with a whole lot of heart bogged down by fear. Under the worst circumstances they find the courage to step out of their comfort zone and test the waters of love. A different kind of fairytale with a modern day twist.
October 6, 2018
I guess modern day fairy tales is not my thing. If the Shoe Fits was an ok read nothing impressive or memorable. I kept reading because I want to know where they would find Theo’s grandma’s jewelry other subplots and even the main plot were predictable.
December 31, 2018
This was an odd book. I liked it, I think, but I felt very unattached. It took a while to get into - the beginning was a bit boring - and I really didn’t like the instalove (but that wasn’t terrible, I just didn’t like it). Elle definitely grew on me so I loved her by the end and I’m really looking forward to Megan’s story. And even Theo was a pretty decent hero even if his growth didn’t feel as earned because we didn’t get to see his Moment.
Overall this felt like a dirtier version of a Hallmark movie where the characters weren’t fully fleshed out to the point where I felt connected to them and the story, but I was attached enough to the plot that I finished the book. Eventually.
Overall this felt like a dirtier version of a Hallmark movie where the characters weren’t fully fleshed out to the point where I felt connected to them and the story, but I was attached enough to the plot that I finished the book. Eventually.
October 22, 2018
DNF. I rated it because I'm more than half way through the book. I'm not saying it's badly written, beause it's not. The plot it just so boring and I'm not feeling the chemistry between the two MC's. It's all a bit of a snore-fest so I thought I'd cut my losses whilst I'm still feeling a bit forgiving.
Will read something more interesting next hopefully!
Will read something more interesting next hopefully!
November 6, 2018
Rachel Lacey is a fabulous author. She really creates amazing stories that are perfectly written and beautifully told. She just has a way with words. Rachel Lacey captivated her audience every time and gets to their hearts. She always makes her stories seem relatable and her characters struggles are very easy for her readers to connect with. Every time I read one of her stories it warms my heart and I fall in love with romance all over again.
In If the Shoe Fits we meet Elle Davenport and Theo Langdon. Elle works at a theme park as a princess. Which was not what she wanted for her life. Elle has two half sister's and a step mother and has always felt like she didn't belong just like Cinderella. Elle Davenport and her friends Ruby Keller and Megan Perl had entered the Almost Royal contest through a magazine and won. The magazine company loved their Fairy Tails idea. So Elle and her friends get to live in a real Castle in Virginia for six months and put their Fairy Tails venture to work.
Theo Langdon is real royalty. He is an Earl. Theo wants to be in London not in a castle in Virginia. Theo's grandfather built the castle for his grandmother. Theo wants to sell the castle as soon as possible which causes a problem for everyone. Theo and Elle and her friends come up with a compromise and that is when everything changes and the passion ignites.
I really loved Elle, Ruby and Megan's Fairy Tails idea. I really fell in love with Azalea, who was a beautiful, deaf dog. I also fell in love with Darcy and Remington. I wish I could have Remington because I love Chihuahua's. Remington had so much energy. I loved how I felt as if I didn't just know the characters but also the animals. From the moment Elle and Theo meet you can see the desire and chemistry that they have for one another.
In If the Shoe Fits we get a modern day Cinderella story. If you love romance and fairy tales you will definitely love If the Shoe Fits. It is a sweet and romantic story. A story of love and friendship and finding yourself and letting go. A story full of love and laughter. The perfect take on a modern day fairy tale romance. You don't only get to meet and know the main characters but you get to know some great secondary characters. If the Shoe Fits is not your typical romance it is a sweet and very heartwarming romance and more than that it is about friendship. A story that will melt your heart for all time and give you moments of laughter and even heartswooning moments. It will touch your heart like no other romance has and even give you a feeling of hope. If the Shoe Fits is a very enchanting story.
In If the Shoe Fits we meet Elle Davenport and Theo Langdon. Elle works at a theme park as a princess. Which was not what she wanted for her life. Elle has two half sister's and a step mother and has always felt like she didn't belong just like Cinderella. Elle Davenport and her friends Ruby Keller and Megan Perl had entered the Almost Royal contest through a magazine and won. The magazine company loved their Fairy Tails idea. So Elle and her friends get to live in a real Castle in Virginia for six months and put their Fairy Tails venture to work.
Theo Langdon is real royalty. He is an Earl. Theo wants to be in London not in a castle in Virginia. Theo's grandfather built the castle for his grandmother. Theo wants to sell the castle as soon as possible which causes a problem for everyone. Theo and Elle and her friends come up with a compromise and that is when everything changes and the passion ignites.
I really loved Elle, Ruby and Megan's Fairy Tails idea. I really fell in love with Azalea, who was a beautiful, deaf dog. I also fell in love with Darcy and Remington. I wish I could have Remington because I love Chihuahua's. Remington had so much energy. I loved how I felt as if I didn't just know the characters but also the animals. From the moment Elle and Theo meet you can see the desire and chemistry that they have for one another.
In If the Shoe Fits we get a modern day Cinderella story. If you love romance and fairy tales you will definitely love If the Shoe Fits. It is a sweet and romantic story. A story of love and friendship and finding yourself and letting go. A story full of love and laughter. The perfect take on a modern day fairy tale romance. You don't only get to meet and know the main characters but you get to know some great secondary characters. If the Shoe Fits is not your typical romance it is a sweet and very heartwarming romance and more than that it is about friendship. A story that will melt your heart for all time and give you moments of laughter and even heartswooning moments. It will touch your heart like no other romance has and even give you a feeling of hope. If the Shoe Fits is a very enchanting story.
October 3, 2018
Elle, like any other girl, dreamed of her prince someday sweeping her off her feet and happily ever afters. Instead, at twenty-five she finds herself playing a princess at Disney World after a failed attempt at acting. Her dad wants her to "be like her half sisters" and get a college degree, but that's not where Elle's heart is. Elle's not exactly sure what she wants to do...until she receives a call. Elle and her two best friends are the winners of a competition that requires them to live in a real-life castle!
Elle and her friends quit their jobs, pack their things and head to Rosemont Castle to live and work for six months. They will have to put their proposed business plan into action and earn a profit or they'll be sent home. Failure is NOT an option! Elle and her friends hope to turn Rosemont Castle into a bed & breakfast of sorts combined with the opportunity to adopt a rescue pet. When they arrive, they are instead informed that the castle is up for sale. Wanting to honor his grandfather's wishes, Theo approaches the girls with a compromise. He will give them three months to prove their ideas are profitable. If not, he'll pay them $10,000 each and their job is complete. If they're successful, he'll try to sell the castle to someone who will continue their business. Elle and her best friends vow to prove Theo wrong and make Rosemont profitable--so profitable that he will change his mind and not put the castle up for sale. What Elle doesn't expect, is to find her Prince...Or Earl.
Woohoo🙌🏻. Such a good story with a unique touch. Combining pet rescue, a bed & breakfast (castle), and an Earl into a Cinderella story takes a lot of imagination. Rachel Lacey hits a homerun with her version of Cinderella! I loved that Elle was able to "show" Theo the love that went into his grandfather's castle and that love is more important than money. I read a gifted copy and all opinions stated are my own.
Elle and her friends quit their jobs, pack their things and head to Rosemont Castle to live and work for six months. They will have to put their proposed business plan into action and earn a profit or they'll be sent home. Failure is NOT an option! Elle and her friends hope to turn Rosemont Castle into a bed & breakfast of sorts combined with the opportunity to adopt a rescue pet. When they arrive, they are instead informed that the castle is up for sale. Wanting to honor his grandfather's wishes, Theo approaches the girls with a compromise. He will give them three months to prove their ideas are profitable. If not, he'll pay them $10,000 each and their job is complete. If they're successful, he'll try to sell the castle to someone who will continue their business. Elle and her best friends vow to prove Theo wrong and make Rosemont profitable--so profitable that he will change his mind and not put the castle up for sale. What Elle doesn't expect, is to find her Prince...Or Earl.
Woohoo🙌🏻. Such a good story with a unique touch. Combining pet rescue, a bed & breakfast (castle), and an Earl into a Cinderella story takes a lot of imagination. Rachel Lacey hits a homerun with her version of Cinderella! I loved that Elle was able to "show" Theo the love that went into his grandfather's castle and that love is more important than money. I read a gifted copy and all opinions stated are my own.
October 7, 2018
If the Shoe Fits is a delightful first instalment of Rachel Lacey's fairytale-inspired series with a nod to the original elements of the classic tales creatively woven throughout this swoon-worthy romance.
Elle has never felt as if she has fit in anywhere, meandering through life without any definite path and a lot of unsolicited advice from her family. Always the outsider even within her own relatives; the closest people in her life are her best friends, Ruby and Megan. Winning a contest to manage a castle for a 6-month contract turns all of their worlds upside down.
Unfortunately, the original owner of the castle, passed away unexpectedly prior to the finalisation of the prize, leaving his grandson, Theo in charge of the castle and its future.
Theo has a lot of responsibility on his young shoulders; burdened by family expectation and the rules that go alongside his position as a member of the British aristocracy. Theo has had a lot of negativity thrust his way due to his grandfather's abandoning the traditional role in favour of setting up home in the States with the love of his life.
Theo is obviously conflicted as to the path his life has taken speciality when he finds himself magnetically attracted to the feisty winner of a magazine contest he was unaware his grandfather had set in motion.
Alongside the fairytale romance, If the Shoe Fits provides endless inspiration for those looking to capitalise their creativity showing (all be it fictional) that hard work and thinking outside the box really can accomplish great things. There is also the fabulous female friendship between Elle, Ruby and Megan emphasising the power women have to support and strengthen each other.
I have barely touched the surface of the many layers to If the Shoe Fits, it's endearing, compelling and heart-warming in equal measure.
Elle has never felt as if she has fit in anywhere, meandering through life without any definite path and a lot of unsolicited advice from her family. Always the outsider even within her own relatives; the closest people in her life are her best friends, Ruby and Megan. Winning a contest to manage a castle for a 6-month contract turns all of their worlds upside down.
Unfortunately, the original owner of the castle, passed away unexpectedly prior to the finalisation of the prize, leaving his grandson, Theo in charge of the castle and its future.
Theo has a lot of responsibility on his young shoulders; burdened by family expectation and the rules that go alongside his position as a member of the British aristocracy. Theo has had a lot of negativity thrust his way due to his grandfather's abandoning the traditional role in favour of setting up home in the States with the love of his life.
Theo is obviously conflicted as to the path his life has taken speciality when he finds himself magnetically attracted to the feisty winner of a magazine contest he was unaware his grandfather had set in motion.
Alongside the fairytale romance, If the Shoe Fits provides endless inspiration for those looking to capitalise their creativity showing (all be it fictional) that hard work and thinking outside the box really can accomplish great things. There is also the fabulous female friendship between Elle, Ruby and Megan emphasising the power women have to support and strengthen each other.
I have barely touched the surface of the many layers to If the Shoe Fits, it's endearing, compelling and heart-warming in equal measure.
October 5, 2018
A modern day fairy tale twist! We're quickly whisked into the heart of the story when three average women enter a contest that changes their lives when they win it. The ensemble is quirky, fun and sexy. We get a heartfelt romance with tidbits of love, friendship and philanthropy as we take the journey towards happily ever after with Elle and Theo. There were a few underdeveloped parts of the plot, and the attempt to make Theo a bit of a dirty talker felt out of sync and forced, but overall, I enjoyed this jaunt into a fairy tale.
Florida theme park princess Elle Davenport is definitely feeling like she's in a rut in her life, but when she gets the news that she and a couple of friends have won a magazine contest that will allow them to move into a castle in Virginia she's thrilled! If the business ideas they submitted and will initiate while there become a success, the positions could become permanent!
Theo Langdon was recently named the Earl of Highcastle much younger than he expected when his grandfather died. He knows his grandfather had agreed to this magazine contest deal, but now that he's in charge of the estate, he needs to sell Rosemont Castle as soon as possible in order to return to his new duties in London. He hopes to offer the ladies who won the contest a deal to walk away, but once he sets eyes on Elle and learns how steadfast she and her friends are to make a go of this venture, he just might find himself wanting to stick around Virginia himself for a bit!
Florida theme park princess Elle Davenport is definitely feeling like she's in a rut in her life, but when she gets the news that she and a couple of friends have won a magazine contest that will allow them to move into a castle in Virginia she's thrilled! If the business ideas they submitted and will initiate while there become a success, the positions could become permanent!
Theo Langdon was recently named the Earl of Highcastle much younger than he expected when his grandfather died. He knows his grandfather had agreed to this magazine contest deal, but now that he's in charge of the estate, he needs to sell Rosemont Castle as soon as possible in order to return to his new duties in London. He hopes to offer the ladies who won the contest a deal to walk away, but once he sets eyes on Elle and learns how steadfast she and her friends are to make a go of this venture, he just might find himself wanting to stick around Virginia himself for a bit!
October 29, 2018
Elle Davenport on a whim with her two friends enters a magazine competition with her two best friends to move into Rosemont Castle for six months, and if successful could see them placed in the castle permanently! Never in a million years did Elle and her friends think they could win the competition.
On the day of their arrival at Rosemont they meet the new Earl, Theo Langdon... But it isn't the fairy tale dream meeting an almost royal as Theo has plans to sell Rosemont and return home to London. Just like that the girls dreams are shattered.
Theo travelled to the US to put his grandfather's property up for sale. The property has been a thorn in the side of the family for many years and it's in his best interests to sell... what he didn't expect was the feisty Elle and her friends who won the competition to run Rosemont as a business venture. They compromise, but the more time Theo spends with Elle the more his interest in her grows beyond being just the owner of the castle and the caretaker. But six months is a short time can they have their summer fling and keep their feelings separate? Or will the fairy tale end once the time is up and Theo returns to London and the castle is sold?
This was a sweet story, with friendship, hidden family secrets, a royal and commoner relationship and adoptable pets. I enjoyed it.
On the day of their arrival at Rosemont they meet the new Earl, Theo Langdon... But it isn't the fairy tale dream meeting an almost royal as Theo has plans to sell Rosemont and return home to London. Just like that the girls dreams are shattered.
Theo travelled to the US to put his grandfather's property up for sale. The property has been a thorn in the side of the family for many years and it's in his best interests to sell... what he didn't expect was the feisty Elle and her friends who won the competition to run Rosemont as a business venture. They compromise, but the more time Theo spends with Elle the more his interest in her grows beyond being just the owner of the castle and the caretaker. But six months is a short time can they have their summer fling and keep their feelings separate? Or will the fairy tale end once the time is up and Theo returns to London and the castle is sold?
This was a sweet story, with friendship, hidden family secrets, a royal and commoner relationship and adoptable pets. I enjoyed it.
September 9, 2018
Rachel Lacey has given her readers a modern take on Cinderella. Elle lost her mother & ended up going to live with her father, his “real” wife & their daughters. That’s when she found out she was the product of an affair. She never felt like she belonged. As she was worked in a theme park portraying a fairy princess, she received the call that she had won a sweepstakes. Her two best friends had joined her in entering a business plan to run a b & b in a castle along with trying to adopt out shelter animals to their “guests”.
Theo can’t believe that his grandfather is gone. He has to sell the castle & get back to London but his grandfathers idea & sweepstakes winners could delay that. He hopes he can persuade them to take a cash settlement & not hold him to the agreement. Then he sees Elle & is captivated. Can she get him to change his mind? Will it end like a true fairy tale?
This was a captivating tale of the friendship between the three girls as much as a romance between Theo & Elle. The addition of the shelter animals was heartwarming & added a great side story. I enjoyed this one & hope we get the other girls stories too!
Theo can’t believe that his grandfather is gone. He has to sell the castle & get back to London but his grandfathers idea & sweepstakes winners could delay that. He hopes he can persuade them to take a cash settlement & not hold him to the agreement. Then he sees Elle & is captivated. Can she get him to change his mind? Will it end like a true fairy tale?
This was a captivating tale of the friendship between the three girls as much as a romance between Theo & Elle. The addition of the shelter animals was heartwarming & added a great side story. I enjoyed this one & hope we get the other girls stories too!
September 10, 2018
I truly loved reading this book!
An awesome start to this new series!
It's a captivating & sexy story.
Elle, & her two friends Megan & Ruby,
won a contest. It's based on a design,
created for Rosemont Castle.
Elle, has not found what she wants to
do with her life. If this idea is successful, their future is set. First Elle will have to deal with the new Earl, who's not happy about them being there. But why did he have to be so sexy & gorgeous!!
Theo had never expected to be so young
when he received his new title as Earl.
He's also not happy about the contest his grandfather, the previous Earl, came up with. Theo just wants to find a buyer for the Castle & get back to his life in London.
But,Theo never expected to
be so attracted to the beautiful, Elle.
The emotions, the humor & their chemistry pulled me in, & kept me hooked.
If The Shoe Fits is an engaging,
feel good story. Great characters
& romance makes the perfect read!!
An awesome start to this new series!
It's a captivating & sexy story.
Elle, & her two friends Megan & Ruby,
won a contest. It's based on a design,
created for Rosemont Castle.
Elle, has not found what she wants to
do with her life. If this idea is successful, their future is set. First Elle will have to deal with the new Earl, who's not happy about them being there. But why did he have to be so sexy & gorgeous!!
Theo had never expected to be so young
when he received his new title as Earl.
He's also not happy about the contest his grandfather, the previous Earl, came up with. Theo just wants to find a buyer for the Castle & get back to his life in London.
But,Theo never expected to
be so attracted to the beautiful, Elle.
The emotions, the humor & their chemistry pulled me in, & kept me hooked.
If The Shoe Fits is an engaging,
feel good story. Great characters
& romance makes the perfect read!!
September 12, 2018
Contemporary Fairy Tails💚💙
My pun on Tales just means there are adorable furbabies included in this lovely romance adding to the feel good factor.
A dream come true journey for Elle falling in love with castle owner Theo. A few hiccups on the way makes it realistic, cos we all know nothing ever goes that smooth, always waiting for the other shoe to drop.
There's bits of humor scattered throughout, along with some seriously intense moments.
Elle's bffs Ruby and Megan add more goodness to this story. They now have me curious and hoping they too get their HEAs, possibly with Theo's old friends?
Truly well written, it keeps you turning the pages absorbing this adult fairy tale all the way thru with a very real "Cinderella" ball benefitting the animal shelter for an extra big happy ending sigh!
My pun on Tales just means there are adorable furbabies included in this lovely romance adding to the feel good factor.
A dream come true journey for Elle falling in love with castle owner Theo. A few hiccups on the way makes it realistic, cos we all know nothing ever goes that smooth, always waiting for the other shoe to drop.
There's bits of humor scattered throughout, along with some seriously intense moments.
Elle's bffs Ruby and Megan add more goodness to this story. They now have me curious and hoping they too get their HEAs, possibly with Theo's old friends?
Truly well written, it keeps you turning the pages absorbing this adult fairy tale all the way thru with a very real "Cinderella" ball benefitting the animal shelter for an extra big happy ending sigh!
October 8, 2018
Gah! I completely loved and adored this book!
If the Shoe Fits is sizzling hot, full of laugh out loud moments and oh so fun! A real life fairytale come true!
This book has it all! Friendship, romance, puppies, did I mention puppies?!
Rachel Lacey has a very special way of writing that places you right in the middle of the story. I have real love for these characters and I am ridiculously attached to them. I had so so much fun reading If the Shoe Fits! I found myself reading most of this story with a smile on my face. I loved it!!
If you want to have a Royally good time... this is a MUST READ!! I hope this is a series and the other characters get their own books! I need more!!
If the Shoe Fits is sizzling hot, full of laugh out loud moments and oh so fun! A real life fairytale come true!
This book has it all! Friendship, romance, puppies, did I mention puppies?!
Rachel Lacey has a very special way of writing that places you right in the middle of the story. I have real love for these characters and I am ridiculously attached to them. I had so so much fun reading If the Shoe Fits! I found myself reading most of this story with a smile on my face. I loved it!!
If you want to have a Royally good time... this is a MUST READ!! I hope this is a series and the other characters get their own books! I need more!!
September 23, 2018
If the Shoe Fits by Rachel Lacey owns its Cinderella roots. While Elle is not exactly the ugly stepsister, her dream of living in a castle comes true when she and her friends win a contest to live and work at Rosemont Castle. The hunky earl that’s just inherited it is just icing on the cake. This book is awash with fairy tales and fur babies and figuring out where you belong in the world. I WAS hooked from page one and can’t wait for the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this title.
October 29, 2018
This was a fun start to the Almost Royal series. I am such a romantic & have always loved fairy tales. In this story loved Elle & her friends who won the contest & their prize was to go to a palace-to live & work there-she was thrilled. They were great friends & worked well together.
However, Theo Langdon who inherited the title Earl of Highcastle at such a young age & is in the process of trying to fix the castle up to sell, so he can go back to London. Elle & Theo butt heads often, especially as Theo doesn't want the women there. It was a great story.
However, Theo Langdon who inherited the title Earl of Highcastle at such a young age & is in the process of trying to fix the castle up to sell, so he can go back to London. Elle & Theo butt heads often, especially as Theo doesn't want the women there. It was a great story.
June 21, 2021
Three friends struggling to make ends meet and find careers that satisfy, win the opportunity of a lifetime; turn a castle in rural Virginia into a profit-making enterprise. None of them expected love to be part of the equation. In this first book of the series, readers follow Elle Davenport as she not only helps make the enterprise profitable, but turns the head, then captures the heart of the English earl who's inherited it. Deftly done and includes a most interesting twist as part of the business plan.
September 9, 2018
Theo is always one to reassure his girl:
“That’s called chemistry, love.” His voice was low, intimate, so friggin’ sexy.
“Our chemistry is…”
“It’s effing hot.” And that word, from his lips, sent a burst of heat through her belly straight to her core.
Theo could be a thoughtful guy, “actually, I wasn’t talking about ***, but that sounds good too. I was going to suggest a hot bath and a glass of wine.” I liked this book, I really loved Theo.
September 10, 2018
I stayed up far later than I should have just so I could finish this book. First of all the heroine loves animals and shoes. Sold! This is a great twist on Cinderella that has me ready to beg for more retellings of the classics. Please! I'll take a Snow White and a Beauty and the Beast next. I also want to check in on all of the characters now. How is everyone? Are the friends finding happiness? Do they adopt a dog?! Give me more!
September 29, 2018
Modern day twist on Cinderella. Elle and her friends get a chance in a lifetime to work in a castle. However, once they get there the new Earl Theo is planning on selling. With a compromise that will benefit them all Theo agrees to let the ladies have 3 months to see if their plan will work.
Theo and Elle sparks fly between them and soon Theo begins to question what is important.
This is a really sweet love story.
Theo and Elle sparks fly between them and soon Theo begins to question what is important.
This is a really sweet love story.
October 3, 2018
If The Shoe Fits by Rachel Lacey
5++ Stars
Fabulous!! I loved it so much! Rachel did a marvelous job! So well written! Very well developed characters! Kept my interest throughout!
What a very very very good modern Cinderella story... shoes, castle. Very sweet love story!
"I know I can't-shouldn't-kiss you, but I just can't stop doing it."
"And Elle, have I mentioned how much I love your f***-me-hot-shoes?"
5++ Stars
Fabulous!! I loved it so much! Rachel did a marvelous job! So well written! Very well developed characters! Kept my interest throughout!
What a very very very good modern Cinderella story... shoes, castle. Very sweet love story!
"I know I can't-shouldn't-kiss you, but I just can't stop doing it."
"And Elle, have I mentioned how much I love your f***-me-hot-shoes?"
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