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London Ladies Embroidery #2
Well Acquainted
There are three things you need to know about Lady Eliza Morgan:
1. In addition to being a busy physician, she’s an accomplished seamstress.
2. She’s the victim of a broken heart.
3. The man who shattered it is the one man she can never have.
Some things are better left in the past, but Eliza has spent years running from hers. When the man who upended her life re-enters it in the most unexpected way, Eliza must decide if reacquainting herself with Nicolas is worth the heartache. He’s charming and irritating and makes her realize there is so much more than the life she’s been living. But first she must confront her painful past if she and Nicolas have any hope for a future.
‘Well Acquainted’, a Penny Reid Universe Reimagining, is a full-length historical romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the London Ladies Embroidery series, Smartypants Romance Out of this World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
1. In addition to being a busy physician, she’s an accomplished seamstress.
2. She’s the victim of a broken heart.
3. The man who shattered it is the one man she can never have.
Some things are better left in the past, but Eliza has spent years running from hers. When the man who upended her life re-enters it in the most unexpected way, Eliza must decide if reacquainting herself with Nicolas is worth the heartache. He’s charming and irritating and makes her realize there is so much more than the life she’s been living. But first she must confront her painful past if she and Nicolas have any hope for a future.
‘Well Acquainted’, a Penny Reid Universe Reimagining, is a full-length historical romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the London Ladies Embroidery series, Smartypants Romance Out of this World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
ebook
First published October 27, 2022
132 people are currently reading
622 people want to read
About the author
Laney Hatcher
17 books361 followersSign up for my newsletter: https://bit.ly/3SbXg2v
Laney Hatcher is a firm believer that there is a spreadsheet for every occasion and pie is always the answer. She is an author of stories both old and new where the HEAs are always guaranteed. Often too practical for her own good, Laney enjoys her life in the southern United States with her husband, children, and incredibly entitled cat.
Laney Hatcher is a firm believer that there is a spreadsheet for every occasion and pie is always the answer. She is an author of stories both old and new where the HEAs are always guaranteed. Often too practical for her own good, Laney enjoys her life in the southern United States with her husband, children, and incredibly entitled cat.
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October 27, 2022
Woohoo! Well Acquainted by Laney Hatcher is the final release in the Smartypants Romance Fall Launch! It's now live in Kindle Unlimited!
‘Well Acquainted: A Smartypants Romance Out Of This World Title’, is a Penny Reid Universe reimagining, where the characters of Elizabeth Finney and Nico Manganiello from the Knitting in the City Series have been reimagined as existing in Regency England. You're gonna love it. It's so fun.
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3cOZios
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3BzbfJ0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3OEmp25
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3cPYBeH
Audiobook: Coming December!
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
There are three things you need to know about Lady Eliza Morgan:
1. In addition to being a busy physician, she’s an accomplished seamstress.
2. She’s the victim of a broken heart.
3. The man who shattered it is the one man she can never have.
Some things are better left in the past, but Eliza has spent years running from hers. When the man who upended her life re-enters it in the most unexpected way, Eliza must decide if reacquainting herself with Nicolas is worth the heartache. He’s charming and irritating and makes her realize there is so much more than the life she’s been living. But first she must confront her painful past if she and Nicolas have any hope for a future.
‘Well Acquainted’, a Penny Reid Universe Reimagining, is a full-length historical romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the London Ladies Embroidery series, Smartypants Romance Out of this World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
Want to read
October 27, 2022★★LIVE in KU★★
"Hatcher’s writing, first and foremost, is exquisite. She makes the prose just flow effortlessly as she crafts her story, imparts feelings and moves the romance along." --She Reads Romance Books
Well Acquainted by Laney Hatcher IS LIVE in #kindleunlimited!!! Love historical romance? Pining heroes? Slow burn swoonfests? We got you.
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3cOZios
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3BzbfJ0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3OEmp25
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3cPYBeH
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3A46QeM
Amazon Print: Coming Release Week
Audiobook: Coming this Winter!
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
There are three things you need to know about Lady Eliza Morgan:
1. In addition to being a busy physician, she’s an accomplished seamstress.
2. She’s the victim of a broken heart.
3. The man who shattered it is the one man she can never have.
Some things are better left in the past, but Eliza has spent years running from hers. When the man who upended her life re-enters it in the most unexpected way, Eliza must decide if reacquainting herself with Nicolas is worth the heartache. He’s charming and irritating and makes her realize there is so much more than the life she’s been living. But first she must confront her painful past if she and Nicolas have any hope for a future.
‘Well Acquainted’, a Penny Reid Universe Reimagining, is a full-length historical romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the London Ladies Embroidery series, Smartypants Romance Out of this World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
December 5, 2022
Laney Hatcher's writing is like powdered gold.
I want to add the historical reimagining of the Knitting in the City series, aka London Ladies Embroidery, to an IV drip so I can have it directly in my veins!
Every single detail is precious, the way Laney Hatcher can take my favourite Penny Reid books and make them completely new, while still being an incredible tribute to the original material, is a work of art. Netflix - take notes!
And theeen, we got a little preview of what's to come in the Love Hacked retelling, and my poor heart can't wait to read the next book!
10 out of 10!
Thank you so much to the author, Penny Reid, Brooke Nowiski and the Smartypants Romance team for an early copy in exchange for a review.
Grab your copy TODAY!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3cOZios
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3BzbfJ0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3OEmp25
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3cPYBeH
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3A46QeM
Audiobook: Coming this winter!
I want to add the historical reimagining of the Knitting in the City series, aka London Ladies Embroidery, to an IV drip so I can have it directly in my veins!
Every single detail is precious, the way Laney Hatcher can take my favourite Penny Reid books and make them completely new, while still being an incredible tribute to the original material, is a work of art. Netflix - take notes!
And theeen, we got a little preview of what's to come in the Love Hacked retelling, and my poor heart can't wait to read the next book!
10 out of 10!
Thank you so much to the author, Penny Reid, Brooke Nowiski and the Smartypants Romance team for an early copy in exchange for a review.
Grab your copy TODAY!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3cOZios
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3BzbfJ0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3OEmp25
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3cPYBeH
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3A46QeM
Audiobook: Coming this winter!
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October 27, 2025
★★Live in KU and on AUDIOBOOK!★★
Well Acquainted is LIVE in Kindle Unlimited and now on AUDIBLE!
★★Grab your copy in TODAY!★★
Amazon US:https://amzn.to/3cUF0K2
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3BzbfJ0
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3OEmp25
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3cPYBeH
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3A46QeM
Audiobook: https://amzn.to/3Z2kUkC
★★Blurb★★
There are three things you need to know about Lady Eliza Morgan:
1. In addition to being a busy physician, she’s an accomplished seamstress.
2. She’s the victim of a broken heart.
3. The man who shattered it is the one man she can never have.
Some things are better left in the past, but Eliza has spent years running from hers. When the man who upended her life re-enters it in the most unexpected way, Eliza must decide if reacquainting herself with Nicolas is worth the heartache. He’s charming and irritating and makes her realize there is so much more than the life she’s been living. But first she must confront her painful past if she and Nicolas have any hope for a future.
‘Well Acquainted’, a Penny Reid Universe Reimagining, is a full-length historical romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the London Ladies Embroidery series, Smartypants Romance Out of this World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
Read
September 6, 2022LOVE
November 17, 2022
Ok, I feel slightly bad about rating this book 2 stars but it really wasn't doing it for me. I don't know if I was bored with the writing OR if it was the fact that every time I read something happening I would just remember the original situation from the Knitting in the City book and just want that instead.
Eliza was fine. Her need to hold on to her guilt for so long got very drawn out for me. Nicolas was fine. His relationship with Angela though just didn't make any sense in the historical setting. Half the time I kept wondering how this would even work out.
So the book was fine, it just wasn't for me. That's really all I have to say about this one unfortunately.
Eliza was fine. Her need to hold on to her guilt for so long got very drawn out for me. Nicolas was fine. His relationship with Angela though just didn't make any sense in the historical setting. Half the time I kept wondering how this would even work out.
So the book was fine, it just wasn't for me. That's really all I have to say about this one unfortunately.
October 10, 2022
Is it too soon to ask for the next book in this series?? Because I’m ready to jump straight into it! If you’re a fan of Penny Reid’s Knitting in the City series, and a fan of historical romance, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
While staying true to the story, I really enjoyed the differences that the author had to make in the story to make it work the time period (please make sure to read the authors note.)
On a personal note, I know that this book is a retelling of Penny Reid’s Knitting in the City series, but I honestly cackle with glee every time I see a character on page that I recognize from Penny’s book. It makes be enjoy this series so much!
Laney has done such a wonderful job retelling from a historical romance view point. I’m a big historical romance reader, and this series has been a joy to read.
While staying true to the story, I really enjoyed the differences that the author had to make in the story to make it work the time period (please make sure to read the authors note.)
On a personal note, I know that this book is a retelling of Penny Reid’s Knitting in the City series, but I honestly cackle with glee every time I see a character on page that I recognize from Penny’s book. It makes be enjoy this series so much!
Laney has done such a wonderful job retelling from a historical romance view point. I’m a big historical romance reader, and this series has been a joy to read.
November 12, 2022
I loved this reimagining of Friends without Benefits! FwB relied a lot on very modern themes, but I loved how Hatcher made them fit into a historical setting. And if you are a Penny Reid fan, you will enjoy the fun nods to the original characters as you read this.
But even if you’ve never heard of the original Friends with Benefits, you will love this book! Eliza and Nicolas are soul mates, but due to circumstances and rash behavior, they have not seen each other in years.
When they reunite, they cannot help the feelings that are between them. But even though Nico is still the most magnetic man in the room, Eliza has a hard time letting go of her self-imposed guilt. But Nico is all-in from the beginning and he is such a swoony wooer.
In a time period where just a man and woman being alone together is scandalous, Eliza and Nico break all the rules. While this is a slow burn, when they finally get together it is STEAMY and satisfying for everyone!
Great story! Looking forward to the next!
But even if you’ve never heard of the original Friends with Benefits, you will love this book! Eliza and Nicolas are soul mates, but due to circumstances and rash behavior, they have not seen each other in years.
When they reunite, they cannot help the feelings that are between them. But even though Nico is still the most magnetic man in the room, Eliza has a hard time letting go of her self-imposed guilt. But Nico is all-in from the beginning and he is such a swoony wooer.
In a time period where just a man and woman being alone together is scandalous, Eliza and Nico break all the rules. While this is a slow burn, when they finally get together it is STEAMY and satisfying for everyone!
Great story! Looking forward to the next!
October 27, 2022
The thing I love most about Laney Hatcher’s retellings is that I get to revisit my favorite Penny Reid characters but I get to know them better in new ways.
Nico and Elizabeth have been transformed to Silas Viso and Dr. Eliza Finley. Former childhood friends now brought together by a little girl’s medical episode. When both Nicolas and Eliza become reacquainted, their feelings they had years ago begin to flourish once more.
Between all the swoon-worthy quotes, my favorite Penny Reid characters making appearances (Hello, Danny) and the romance of the regency era, I am more than ready for the next retelling!
More review to come at LitBuzz!
Nico and Elizabeth have been transformed to Silas Viso and Dr. Eliza Finley. Former childhood friends now brought together by a little girl’s medical episode. When both Nicolas and Eliza become reacquainted, their feelings they had years ago begin to flourish once more.
Between all the swoon-worthy quotes, my favorite Penny Reid characters making appearances (Hello, Danny) and the romance of the regency era, I am more than ready for the next retelling!
More review to come at LitBuzz!
November 9, 2022
I was provided an ARC of this book by the author via Smartypants romance, all opinions are my own.
This is the second book in the series, however it reads as a standalone. This series is really fun as it is a reimagining of the Knitting in the City series set in Regency England. This book is a reimagining of Friends Without Benefits and follows Eliza and Nicolas. I love how the author took the original material and made it her own. I think Penny Reid fans will love this reimagining as much as they love Elizabeth and Nico's story. I know I did!
Eliza has a broken heart and is plagued with years of guilt from decisions she made in the past. When she is reunited with her childhood friend and first love Nicolas, she must face the pain and guilt she came to London to hide from. There is quite alot of pain between them but when Nicolas asks Eliza to provide medical care to his colleagues at the local theater where he works they can't help but rekindle the friendship they once had. Eliza is a doctor, like her father, which makes her an oddity for the time (read the author's note) but she loves tending to her patients and helping people. Eliza can't help herself when it comes to tending to those in need, and she can't stay away from Nicolas either. As they figure out how to be friends again, they also have to let go of the past and determine if they can have a future together and what that might look like.
I really enjoyed this version of Elizabeth aka Eliza. I felt her character was well supported by her friends despite her trying to hide her problems and deal with her turmoil internally. I loved seeing the Knitting Ladies reimagined as Regency Aristocrats who Embroider. I hope we get the other ladies books as well. Nicolas and Eliza's relationship is a bit of a slow burn, second chance romance as they work through their issues but once they figure things out it is well worth the wait.
This is the second book in the series, however it reads as a standalone. This series is really fun as it is a reimagining of the Knitting in the City series set in Regency England. This book is a reimagining of Friends Without Benefits and follows Eliza and Nicolas. I love how the author took the original material and made it her own. I think Penny Reid fans will love this reimagining as much as they love Elizabeth and Nico's story. I know I did!
Eliza has a broken heart and is plagued with years of guilt from decisions she made in the past. When she is reunited with her childhood friend and first love Nicolas, she must face the pain and guilt she came to London to hide from. There is quite alot of pain between them but when Nicolas asks Eliza to provide medical care to his colleagues at the local theater where he works they can't help but rekindle the friendship they once had. Eliza is a doctor, like her father, which makes her an oddity for the time (read the author's note) but she loves tending to her patients and helping people. Eliza can't help herself when it comes to tending to those in need, and she can't stay away from Nicolas either. As they figure out how to be friends again, they also have to let go of the past and determine if they can have a future together and what that might look like.
I really enjoyed this version of Elizabeth aka Eliza. I felt her character was well supported by her friends despite her trying to hide her problems and deal with her turmoil internally. I loved seeing the Knitting Ladies reimagined as Regency Aristocrats who Embroider. I hope we get the other ladies books as well. Nicolas and Eliza's relationship is a bit of a slow burn, second chance romance as they work through their issues but once they figure things out it is well worth the wait.
November 20, 2022
Favorite Quotes:
He was frightfully boring. And he made me boring. We were boring together. For some reason, I didn’t feel comfortable being myself when I was around Dr. Miles. And, fine, I knew I would never be the belle of any ball. But I could be quick-witted and a decent conversationalist. There was just something about being in Dr. Miles’s presence that leeched all interesting thought from my head.
It was like having permission to stare when I’d spent a lifetime looking away.
I laughed lightly before remembering myself. I’d forgotten what this was like— being charmed by, Nicolas. I could feel him tugging the amusement out of me like a string.
My Review:
I keep trying to like period historical pieces as I loved Downton Abbey, but I struggled with this tale as constant angst is just not one of my favorite things. While I admired the feminism of the main protagonist, Eliza, I found her insecurity and emotional immaturity annoying and tiresome as her inner conflicts were pedantic and tedious. While the writing style was easy to follow, the storylines and pacing were incrementally slow, repetitive, and rather monotonous. I adored the effervescent and patient character of Nicholas but I wanted to sigh and give Eliza a kick in her bussle.
He was frightfully boring. And he made me boring. We were boring together. For some reason, I didn’t feel comfortable being myself when I was around Dr. Miles. And, fine, I knew I would never be the belle of any ball. But I could be quick-witted and a decent conversationalist. There was just something about being in Dr. Miles’s presence that leeched all interesting thought from my head.
It was like having permission to stare when I’d spent a lifetime looking away.
I laughed lightly before remembering myself. I’d forgotten what this was like— being charmed by, Nicolas. I could feel him tugging the amusement out of me like a string.
My Review:
I keep trying to like period historical pieces as I loved Downton Abbey, but I struggled with this tale as constant angst is just not one of my favorite things. While I admired the feminism of the main protagonist, Eliza, I found her insecurity and emotional immaturity annoying and tiresome as her inner conflicts were pedantic and tedious. While the writing style was easy to follow, the storylines and pacing were incrementally slow, repetitive, and rather monotonous. I adored the effervescent and patient character of Nicholas but I wanted to sigh and give Eliza a kick in her bussle.
October 28, 2022
Laney Hatcher has done a fabulous job with this reimagining of Friends Without Benefits. It is a good mix of characters and elements that are recognizable from the original book and ones that are fresh and new. I loved getting to see how this story played out as a historical romance. Eliza and Nicolas had so much chemistry and a connection that was evident from the first chapter when they met again after years apart.
Laney's writing is engaging and easy to read and I loved this book just as much as the first in the series. I cannot wait for more!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Laney's writing is engaging and easy to read and I loved this book just as much as the first in the series. I cannot wait for more!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
November 19, 2022
Après Neanderthal Seeks Duchess, c'est au tour du tome 2 de Penny Reid, Friends Without Benefits d'avoir sa réécriture en historique.
Dans le tome précédent, Lady Eliza découvrait avec surprise le visage de Nicolas dans les journaux, dans un article sur une pièce de théâtre dont il a le premier rôle. Savoir qu'il est à Londres, si près, sans nouvelles depuis des années, fait ressortir tout un passé douloureux chez Eliza. D'autant que peu de temps après, Nico frappe à la porte de son cabinet médical avec un enfant malade. Malgré son trouble, Eliza reprend sa tâche et va tour faire pour aider la fillette.
Eliza et Nico se connaissent depuis leur enfance, ils auraient pu grandir et ne plus être que des amis, mais la vie en a décidé autrement. Un drame, de mauvaises décisions et des années de silence ont eu raison du coeur d'Eliza. Elle se sent coupable de ce qui s'est passé et se refuse à imaginer qu'un coeur brisé peut se réparer. Heureusement, Nico est bien déterminé à lui prouver le contraire.
Tout comme le premier tome, j'ai beaucoup apprécié celui-ci, la façon dont Laney Hatcher s'empare de l'histoire et la réarrange à sa sauce pour en faire quelque chose de différent, mais sans trop s'éloigner de l'âme du livre originel.
Et donc évidemment, ce tome 2, nous offre un teaser du 3, et évidement, je l'attendrais avec impatience !
*******************
After Neanderthal Seeks Duchess, it's the turn of Penny Reid's book #2, Friends Without Benefits to have its rewrite in history romance.
In the previous volume, Lady Eliza was surprised to discover Nicolas' face in the newspapers, in an article about a play in which he had the leading role. Knowing that he is in London, so close, without news for years, brings out a whole painful past in Eliza. Especially since shortly after, Nico knocks on her medical office's door with a sick child. Despite her confusion, Eliza resumes her task and goes out of her way to help the little girl.
Eliza and Nico have known each other since they were kids, they could have grown up and been more than friends, but life decided otherwise. Tragedy, bad decisions and years of silence have taken a toll on Eliza's heart. She feels guilty for what happened and refuses to imagine that a broken heart can be repaired. Fortunately, Nico is determined to prove her wrong.
Like the first book, I enjoyed this one a lot, the way Laney Hatcher takes the story and rearranges it in her own way to make it something different, but without straying too far from the soul of the original book.
And so obviously, this book offers us a teaser of the 3, and obviously, I would be waiting for it impatiently !
-Read as an ARC-
Dans le tome précédent, Lady Eliza découvrait avec surprise le visage de Nicolas dans les journaux, dans un article sur une pièce de théâtre dont il a le premier rôle. Savoir qu'il est à Londres, si près, sans nouvelles depuis des années, fait ressortir tout un passé douloureux chez Eliza. D'autant que peu de temps après, Nico frappe à la porte de son cabinet médical avec un enfant malade. Malgré son trouble, Eliza reprend sa tâche et va tour faire pour aider la fillette.
Eliza et Nico se connaissent depuis leur enfance, ils auraient pu grandir et ne plus être que des amis, mais la vie en a décidé autrement. Un drame, de mauvaises décisions et des années de silence ont eu raison du coeur d'Eliza. Elle se sent coupable de ce qui s'est passé et se refuse à imaginer qu'un coeur brisé peut se réparer. Heureusement, Nico est bien déterminé à lui prouver le contraire.
Tout comme le premier tome, j'ai beaucoup apprécié celui-ci, la façon dont Laney Hatcher s'empare de l'histoire et la réarrange à sa sauce pour en faire quelque chose de différent, mais sans trop s'éloigner de l'âme du livre originel.
Et donc évidemment, ce tome 2, nous offre un teaser du 3, et évidement, je l'attendrais avec impatience !
*******************
After Neanderthal Seeks Duchess, it's the turn of Penny Reid's book #2, Friends Without Benefits to have its rewrite in history romance.
In the previous volume, Lady Eliza was surprised to discover Nicolas' face in the newspapers, in an article about a play in which he had the leading role. Knowing that he is in London, so close, without news for years, brings out a whole painful past in Eliza. Especially since shortly after, Nico knocks on her medical office's door with a sick child. Despite her confusion, Eliza resumes her task and goes out of her way to help the little girl.
Eliza and Nico have known each other since they were kids, they could have grown up and been more than friends, but life decided otherwise. Tragedy, bad decisions and years of silence have taken a toll on Eliza's heart. She feels guilty for what happened and refuses to imagine that a broken heart can be repaired. Fortunately, Nico is determined to prove her wrong.
Like the first book, I enjoyed this one a lot, the way Laney Hatcher takes the story and rearranges it in her own way to make it something different, but without straying too far from the soul of the original book.
And so obviously, this book offers us a teaser of the 3, and obviously, I would be waiting for it impatiently !
-Read as an ARC-
October 26, 2022
I was really excited to receive an early copy from SmartyPants Romance, since I loved the first book in this series as well as the Knitting in the City series. It did not disappoint! I've been loving Laney Hatcher, and I'm so glad the crew behind SPR are letting her take KitC and make it Regency.
I have to admit, while I really enjoyed the second KitC book this is based off of, its not my favorite in the series. In fact, it might be my least favorite (I'm chalking that all up to Elizabeth being the hardest for me to relate to out of all the ladies in that series). While Eliza isn't exactly someone I can relate to, when reading historical romance I don't necessarily need to (not as much as it seems I need to with contemporary romance).
I did have a hard time at first separating this book from it's Knitting in the City counterpart. Once I got past trying to compare each scene and character, I was able to really enjoy it as it is - its own piece of written art. I love how Eliza and Nicholas are portrayed, and the steps of their relationship getting fleshed out. While there are so many similarities (there's supposed to be), even if you haven't read Elizabeth's story Friends Without Benefits, you can still thoroughly enjoy this book! This is 100% the book for those who love Regency or Knitting in the City.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I have to admit, while I really enjoyed the second KitC book this is based off of, its not my favorite in the series. In fact, it might be my least favorite (I'm chalking that all up to Elizabeth being the hardest for me to relate to out of all the ladies in that series). While Eliza isn't exactly someone I can relate to, when reading historical romance I don't necessarily need to (not as much as it seems I need to with contemporary romance).
I did have a hard time at first separating this book from it's Knitting in the City counterpart. Once I got past trying to compare each scene and character, I was able to really enjoy it as it is - its own piece of written art. I love how Eliza and Nicholas are portrayed, and the steps of their relationship getting fleshed out. While there are so many similarities (there's supposed to be), even if you haven't read Elizabeth's story Friends Without Benefits, you can still thoroughly enjoy this book! This is 100% the book for those who love Regency or Knitting in the City.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
November 7, 2022
Check out my review on She Reads Romance Books!
3.5/4 stars
I’m so loving the London Ladies Embroidery series by Laney Hatcher. Her historical re-imaginings of Penny Reid’s modern Knitting in the City series are everything I didn’t know I needed.
Hatcher’s writing first and foremost is exquisite. She makes the prose just flow effortlessly as she crafts her story, imparts feelings and moves the romance along.
One of the best parts about this series is the strong female friendships among the ladies who embroider together.
I felt like their support of each other and especially Eliza really shone through in this book (and I’m SO counting down until Cassandra’s book!!).
If you’re a fan of the Knitting in the City series, there are definite similarities to the modern book and yet it’s a historical romance all its own and can be read as a standalone.
Hatcher threw in nods to Friends Without Benefits that I had totally forgotten about!
In this historical, I love how Eliza is still a doctor despite it being very uncommon for the times. She reconnects with Nicolas, a man who she fell in love with when they were younger, who is an actor in the local playhouse.
While I did feel like the pace got a bit slow at parts reiterating Eliza’s hesitation to move forward with Nicolas, I enjoyed it.
These books are all told from the heroine’s point of view, but I really would have liked Nicolas’ POV in this one or a flashback or two of their past to really show their strong connection.
Though I will say the man TOTALLY knew the right things to say to Eliza each and every time.
Keep these books coming!
*I received an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
3.5/4 stars
I’m so loving the London Ladies Embroidery series by Laney Hatcher. Her historical re-imaginings of Penny Reid’s modern Knitting in the City series are everything I didn’t know I needed.
Hatcher’s writing first and foremost is exquisite. She makes the prose just flow effortlessly as she crafts her story, imparts feelings and moves the romance along.
One of the best parts about this series is the strong female friendships among the ladies who embroider together.
I felt like their support of each other and especially Eliza really shone through in this book (and I’m SO counting down until Cassandra’s book!!).
If you’re a fan of the Knitting in the City series, there are definite similarities to the modern book and yet it’s a historical romance all its own and can be read as a standalone.
Hatcher threw in nods to Friends Without Benefits that I had totally forgotten about!
In this historical, I love how Eliza is still a doctor despite it being very uncommon for the times. She reconnects with Nicolas, a man who she fell in love with when they were younger, who is an actor in the local playhouse.
While I did feel like the pace got a bit slow at parts reiterating Eliza’s hesitation to move forward with Nicolas, I enjoyed it.
These books are all told from the heroine’s point of view, but I really would have liked Nicolas’ POV in this one or a flashback or two of their past to really show their strong connection.
Though I will say the man TOTALLY knew the right things to say to Eliza each and every time.
Keep these books coming!
*I received an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2022
Laney Hatcher’s regency retelling of this second chance romance was funny, endearing and gave me all the feels! Her prose and pacing is great and it was hard to put this one down. I honestly don’t think you’d have to read Penny Reid’s Friends Without Benefits first to enjoy this! (but honestly, go read that too, you’re welcome) Laney Hatcher has quickly become one of my favorite new authors this year. Typically not a huge fan of regency— I love her modern style of writing regency romance and am ALL HERE FOR IT! I’m excited for more!
October 27, 2022
A perfect retelling of a favorite story!
Laney has done it again! She’s taken a story & characters that I love and she’s made me fallen in love with them even more.
The chemistry between Eliza & Nicolas was just amazing. I had butterflies in my stomach and didn’t want to stop reading until I could see these two find their HEA.
I loved seeing Eliza work through her past and watching her realize that those she held dear didn’t hold onto their hurt/anger was freeing.
Laney is a master of creating historical romances that just draw you in and won’t let you put them down.
Laney has done it again! She’s taken a story & characters that I love and she’s made me fallen in love with them even more.
The chemistry between Eliza & Nicolas was just amazing. I had butterflies in my stomach and didn’t want to stop reading until I could see these two find their HEA.
I loved seeing Eliza work through her past and watching her realize that those she held dear didn’t hold onto their hurt/anger was freeing.
Laney is a master of creating historical romances that just draw you in and won’t let you put them down.
October 27, 2022
POV: Single (Eliza)
Spice: 🌶 🌶 🌶
Laney Hatcher continues to do no wrong with this second book in the series! I love her way with words and to be honest, I didn’t even pay much attention to the blurb of this book before reading, that is how much I believe that whatever she does I will love, and this is only her third published book.
Well Acquainted continues the theme of real and honest female friendships in a time where that was not always the case, as well as being unique for having a lady as a physician who falls for an actor. While I found Nicolas to be instantly swoon worthy with how funny he is and how up front he is about his feelings for Eliza (no games or the typical guy who isn’t sure about settling down here), I did find myself frustrated with Eliza most of the book but at the same time sympathized with her. Luckily with the help of her friends and and a very understanding Nicolas, these two get their HEA!
Slow burn, second chance-ish, funny, and a little emotional at times, this historical re-telling of Friends Without Benefits by Penny Reid is one you won’t want to miss!
Spice: 🌶 🌶 🌶
Laney Hatcher continues to do no wrong with this second book in the series! I love her way with words and to be honest, I didn’t even pay much attention to the blurb of this book before reading, that is how much I believe that whatever she does I will love, and this is only her third published book.
Well Acquainted continues the theme of real and honest female friendships in a time where that was not always the case, as well as being unique for having a lady as a physician who falls for an actor. While I found Nicolas to be instantly swoon worthy with how funny he is and how up front he is about his feelings for Eliza (no games or the typical guy who isn’t sure about settling down here), I did find myself frustrated with Eliza most of the book but at the same time sympathized with her. Luckily with the help of her friends and and a very understanding Nicolas, these two get their HEA!
Slow burn, second chance-ish, funny, and a little emotional at times, this historical re-telling of Friends Without Benefits by Penny Reid is one you won’t want to miss!
October 26, 2022
Laney Hatcher is on a streak!!!! What an amazing year for her… 3 fantastic books published and 4th on the way! I’m loving her reimagine of the Knitting in City series. Nico is a fan favorite and he was just as charming this time around. Once again it was so easy to root for Eliza and Nicolas’s love story. I really enjoyed Well Acquainted and totally recommend it to all my fellow book lovers!
Thank you Smartypants Romance for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Smartypants Romance for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2023
Quickie review: 3.5 stars. This wasn't quite as good as book 1 for me. It reminded me that I never read Nico and Elizabeth's original book. This was still an interesting story and it kept my attention. I liked Nicholas and Eliza, but felt they lacking in communication and didn't fully resolve their issues or completely open up to each other by the end. The last quarter was weak. Still, this was not a bad read and I will continue this series.
October 27, 2022
Can one say that a re-telling is better than the original. In the case of Well Acquainted yes, you can. And that is saying something because Friends Without Benefits by Penny Reid is amazing.
The story follows Eliza and Nico, friends from children but due to circumstances were separated at 17. Six years later, after growing up and becoming their own people, their paths cross and CHEMISTRY!!!!
Nicolas is well just Nicolas. He is well just melt in your mouth gooey. The is a person who knows what he wants and will do almost anything to get it. He is sweet, and charming and handsome and everything you want in a hero. And his affection for Angelica is out of this world.
Eliza is a short character with a few flaws. However she tries her best to protect those around her and by doing so has built multiple walls. Nicolas breaks down these walls with those green eyes and again the CHEMSITRY is off the charts.
If you liked the Knitting in the City Series you will LOVE the London Ladies Embroidery. It is smart and funny and everything that is Smartypants Romance. Pick up this book because you will not be able to put it down.
The story follows Eliza and Nico, friends from children but due to circumstances were separated at 17. Six years later, after growing up and becoming their own people, their paths cross and CHEMISTRY!!!!
Nicolas is well just Nicolas. He is well just melt in your mouth gooey. The is a person who knows what he wants and will do almost anything to get it. He is sweet, and charming and handsome and everything you want in a hero. And his affection for Angelica is out of this world.
Eliza is a short character with a few flaws. However she tries her best to protect those around her and by doing so has built multiple walls. Nicolas breaks down these walls with those green eyes and again the CHEMSITRY is off the charts.
If you liked the Knitting in the City Series you will LOVE the London Ladies Embroidery. It is smart and funny and everything that is Smartypants Romance. Pick up this book because you will not be able to put it down.
October 15, 2022
I really loved how this book took the best parts of Friends Without Benefits by Penny Reid and made it into something really special. Just like with the previous book in the London Ladies Embroidery series, I love finding all the Easter eggs hidden in this book. It’s brilliant the way Laney Hatcher molded this story to fit into a fabulous historical romance. By far and away, one of my favorite books this year.
November 9, 2022
It's time for Eliza and Nicolas to find their HEA and I am here for it! I mean, the shy, reserved lady who bucks society's norms and doctors those who need it most and the (almost) larger than life man who entertains and draws people to him with ease. They don't seem like they'd fit, but they do. THEY DO.
To say Eliza and Nicolas have a somewhat tangled past would be understating things. Eliza blames herself for driving Nicolas from his family while also distancing herself from (and essentially losing) the surrogate family she'd come to adore. She'd basically given up on finding happiness and instead dedicated herself to helping those who needed her most.
Meanwhile, Nicolas had never forgotten Eliza and unexpectedly running into her did NOTHING to quench those flames. These two might have had a fair amount of baggage to work through, but they certainly didn't lack in unrequited desire. And then that desire became requited and RAWR!
A close-knit group of friends who support one another like champs, a family that dealt with one hit after another, a rowdy group of actors, a sweet little girl, and a couple who managed to find one another despite long odds and plenty of issues. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
To say Eliza and Nicolas have a somewhat tangled past would be understating things. Eliza blames herself for driving Nicolas from his family while also distancing herself from (and essentially losing) the surrogate family she'd come to adore. She'd basically given up on finding happiness and instead dedicated herself to helping those who needed her most.
Meanwhile, Nicolas had never forgotten Eliza and unexpectedly running into her did NOTHING to quench those flames. These two might have had a fair amount of baggage to work through, but they certainly didn't lack in unrequited desire. And then that desire became requited and RAWR!
A close-knit group of friends who support one another like champs, a family that dealt with one hit after another, a rowdy group of actors, a sweet little girl, and a couple who managed to find one another despite long odds and plenty of issues. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 29, 2022
Laney Hatcher creates a great marriage of historical romance with Penny Reid’s characters and general story arc. I’m enjoying these books immensely and am impatient for the rest of the series.
November 15, 2022
This is a heartfelt and witty second chance romance which also happens to be a historical romance. Eliza is a physician which is already odd being that she’s a lady during this time and she runs into her old love necklace. From the beginning and see if they still have chemistry but we have to learn about their past before they can move forward to the future. Liza and Nicolas are both likable characters and you root for them throughout the book. The side characters are funny and add a sense of humor to the book. I really enjoyed it and I’m equally awaiting the next book in the series.
November 11, 2022
I normally do not read Historical romance but after reading Laney’s first book Neanderthal Seeks Duchess I was hooked.
My love for the KITC crew runs deep, I adore these women and their stories. I am fascinated and ecstatic with Laney’s retelling of these characters with a new twist.
I wasn’t sure who the villain was going to be…thought I had it figured out but Laney did a great job of keeping us in the dark, well at least me, until closer to the end of the story.
Nicholas and Eliza have an angsty, swoony and sometimes frustrating story. Lol. They both hold back their feelings until it’s almost too late. I feel like Eliza is more confident and strong in this story where we see a little more vulnerability from Nicholas. I really enjoyed Nicholas and Eliza’s story.
Always enjoy the cameo appearances of the other characters…I always swoon when I read about “Jane and Q”
Looking forward to additional books in this series.
My love for the KITC crew runs deep, I adore these women and their stories. I am fascinated and ecstatic with Laney’s retelling of these characters with a new twist.
I wasn’t sure who the villain was going to be…thought I had it figured out but Laney did a great job of keeping us in the dark, well at least me, until closer to the end of the story.
Nicholas and Eliza have an angsty, swoony and sometimes frustrating story. Lol. They both hold back their feelings until it’s almost too late. I feel like Eliza is more confident and strong in this story where we see a little more vulnerability from Nicholas. I really enjoyed Nicholas and Eliza’s story.
Always enjoy the cameo appearances of the other characters…I always swoon when I read about “Jane and Q”
Looking forward to additional books in this series.
November 15, 2022
Just like the previous book I enjoyed this one immensely. I love the characters nods and the fact that such a contemporary story was turned into an historical romance. It just works and I don't know how she does it, but she is very very good. I hope we'll get more. It's just so seamless, and if you haven't read the original then it's a treat to read both books.
November 12, 2022
You guys, my love for this book is huge. I was just as charmed by Nicolas and Eliza in history as I was the first time I read Friends Without Benefits. I'm a big Penny Reid fan and seeing these characters through a different lens in a different time was everything my heart needed. Laney Hatcher did an amazing job giving these two her own spin while keeping the level of pining, incredible friendships, and essence of the original characters. Even if I wasn't a Penny Reid fan and had never read the Knitting in the City series, I would still love this book. The writing is fantastic, the characters are endearing, and I adored every second.
February 19, 2023
Second chance
Regency retelling of Penny Reid's Friends Without Benefits. And an excellent job done as far as I'm concerned. So true to the original story but with it's own little quirks to bring it into the Regency era.
Regency retelling of Penny Reid's Friends Without Benefits. And an excellent job done as far as I'm concerned. So true to the original story but with it's own little quirks to bring it into the Regency era.
November 9, 2022
This series is out of this world and I am loving it more and more! I love how Laney Hatcher threads the characters we all love from the Knitting in the City world with historical settings and everytime I love them as if it were the first time. I really can't wait for Lady Cassandra and her mysterious server/footman now. That will be interesting!!
EDIT: available in Kindle Unlimited! https://amzn.eu/d/0RN1Qpq
EDIT: available in Kindle Unlimited! https://amzn.eu/d/0RN1Qpq
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