They are sworn enemies… her.
Pretending to be lovers…
Daisy Swann has plans and they do not involve a loveless marriage with anyone. But when a devastating family secret threatens to destroy her standing in society, suddenly a fake engagement with Theo is just the thing to make all her dreams come true.
And now it’s time to kiss and make up…
Daisy Swann aspires to sell cosmetics that she has created, but this brainy scientist needs a smooth talking charmer’s flair for words and eye for beauty to make it a success. Before long, Daisy and Theo are trading kisses. And secrets. And discovering that despite appearances, they might be the perfect couple after all.
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Some Like It Scandalous by Maya Rodale is smart, sexy and empowering. Full stop.
There’s Daisy. She’s a chemist and she makes cosmetics and she’s determined to make enough money via her own fabulous brain to become an independent woman. I loved that Daisy’s character speaks to the world’s utter preoccupation with a woman’s “beauty” and the all-consuming way that it plays into her perceived value. But, at the same time, Daisy also challenges the patriarchal conventions that say so-called “feminine” interests like cosmetics (or romance novels?) are frivolous and of lesser value. I loved Daisy even though she could be a bit prickly. I pumped many a mental fist in her honor.
And there’s Theo. A hero who becomes the best version of himself and realizes his own potential because of Daisy and who goes all in to support her dreams.
Some Like It Scandalous is an invigorating blend of good old-fashioned American determination and ingenuity and sassy, steamy romance. It’s an ‘enemies to lovers/fake relationship’ story and the banter? It’s got top-drawer banter. If you are hungry for a heroine who unapologetically claims her professional ambitions and refuses to give up on herself (and let’s be real, who isn’t these days?!) then you should definitely give this book a read. And, while you’re at it, check out the first book in The Gilded Age Girls Club series, Duchess by Design. I loved that book too!
Some Like It Scandalous is out on June 18th and it’s available for preorder! Thank you Netgalley and Avon for the chance to read an advanced copy.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of Some Like it Scandalous. All opinions are my own.
This is my first time reading Rodale’s work and it did not disappoint. Told in alternating views of the male and female leads, Some Like it Scandalous introduces the fierce and intelligent Daisy and the vain, pretty boy Theo.
Really, this romance reads almost like a New Adult novel in the beginning since both characters were so immature and snarky. Even so, it wasn’t overly done and made the character growth truly stand out. I wish Theo’s growth had been more gradual as it felt rather convenient and forced to move the plot along.
My highlight: What I love most about this book, and really the whole idea of the series, is the inspiration Rodale takes from women that have been skipped over in the history books and yet made such an impact in their communities.
By the end, I was ready to boast some lipstick and march, signs held high, alongside these ladies. I suppose I will have to settle for recommending this book to all my fellow historical romance fans. This book is standalone but for maximum series enjoyment, I recommend picking up the first book Duchess by Design. I’m can hardly wait for the next installment of this Gilded Age romance!
Daisy Swan is determined to finish her education and make something of herself. She has no interest in matrimony, much less to her arch nemesis Theodore Prescott the Third. Dubbing her Ugly Duck Daisy as children started her lifelong dislike of everything Theo, with his handsome looks and loaded social calendar, so what on earth could her mother be thinking to make Daisy marry him?
There’s more to Theodore Prescott the Third bedsides his best dressed self and booked social calendar. Too bad he hasn’t figured out what that something is…yet. He knows he doesn’t want to work for his father, nor does he want to marry Daisy Swan, regardless of what his father thinks. But what’s a guy to do when said father cuts off access to his pin money, clubs, and life as he knows it?
Daisy and Theo were total opposites, that I honestly didn’t expect them to have such chemistry! Granted, it was a very slooooow burn, but their mutual wonder of discovering deeper feelings for one another made the anticipation so worthwhile!
Another thing I loved about the story was how much women’s history was weaved into the plot! Dining alone, women’s marches, workplace conditions, society’s perceptions that make or break reputations, and of course, cosmetics! Personally, I rarely wear make-up because my skin is so sensitive, but darned if I didn’t commiserate with Daisy’s reasons and her desire to create and concoct her products. I know I’ll also be adding the biographies mentioned in the author’s note to read for sure:)
I find Maya Rodale’s voice very refreshing! The Gilded Age has so much material to offer and I love Rodale’s spin on things. Her characters are strong and unique in their own ways and push the limits of society’s expectations. But it’s the end result I love-that there’s always a choice. One that isn’t based on personal restrictive circumstances or society’s rules, but because an opportunity of their own making allows them to make an unfettered decision about their future.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.