REVIEW: The Reluctant Countess by Eloisa James

The Reluctant Countess by Eloisa James: Lady Yasmin left France to escape the comments and rumors after she was tricked into believing she was married. Her reputation was ruined after her so-called groom tried to blackmail her family and her situation became known. Even though her ruined reputation wasn’t known in London, Yasmin was still not entirely proper since her mother was known to be one of Napoleon’s mistresses. Yasmin hides her hurt from all the rumors and snubs she receives behind her revealing clothing and flirty attitude. The Earl of Lilford might be scandalized by her but he always requests a waltz even though his dislike of her is well-known. She has plenty of suitors but his opinion of her still hurts.

Giles Renwick, Earl of Lilford, hated gossip after the effects of such had destroyed his family. He worked hard to maintain a spotless reputation and his place in the House of the Lords. Even though he was enchanted by Yasmin and her cheerful attitude, he could never ask her to be his wife. Her indecent gowns, scandalous behavior, and gossiping ways made her an unsuitable candidate for his wife. He only allowed himself the first waltz with her at balls while he courted the other proper ladies. When he finally realizes that none of that mattered, would his previous attitude keep him from winning her hand?

This was the second book in the Would-Be Wallflowers series. I enjoyed the first book and all the humor so I couldn’t wait for this one. I didn’t find it to have as much humor in it, but the characters were just as charming. As with most of the books by Mrs. James the hero had to overcome his own fears of what society thinks and decide his own happiness was more important. Giles almost lost his chance at happiness but once he figured it out, he had to prove his true feelings to Yasmin. This was an entertaining book and I absolutely loved Yasmin’s grandfather, who added all the humor to the story. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us in the next book.

Book Info:

Publication: November 29th 2022 | Avon Books | Would-Be Wallflowers #2

Giles Renwick, Earl of Lilford, has never made a fool of himself over a woman–until he meets Lady Yasmin R�gnier. Yasmin is ineligible for his attentions in every way: not as a wife, certainly not as a mistress (she is a lady!), nor even as a friend, since they vehemently dislike each other. Her gowns are too low, and her skirts are dampened to cling to admittedly lovely thighs. She loves to gossip–and giggle.

She isn’t dignified, or polite, or even truly British, given that her father’s French ancestry clearly predominated. Not to mention the fact that her mother had been one of Napoleon’s mistresses, a fact she makes no effort to hide.

So what–in heaven’s name–possesses him to propose?

And what will he do if she says yes?