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Dollar Princess #1
To Love a Lady
For fans of My Fair Lady and The Gilded Age
New York City, 1883. Keira O’Day has spent her life scraping by in the tenements, haunted by the mystery of her parents’ abandonment. When wealthy widow and social climber, Maude Hill, offers her a daring proposition—to be adopted, polished, and presented as a society bride for an English lord—Keira sees an opportunity she can’t pass up.
Maude’s nephew, Alexander Paxton-Hill, is skeptical from the start. Tasked with teaching Keira the art of charm and flirtation, he soon finds himself captivated by her honesty and warmth as she challenges everything he thought he knew about love—and about himself.
After navigating the glittering, treacherous world of New York society, Keira arrives in England and catches the eye of the elusive Duke of Severton. She’s poised to win everything until a lavish ball, a long-buried secret, and one reckless act of love threaten to unravel it all. Now Keira must the role she’s been prepared to play—or the woman she’s become.
New York City, 1883. Keira O’Day has spent her life scraping by in the tenements, haunted by the mystery of her parents’ abandonment. When wealthy widow and social climber, Maude Hill, offers her a daring proposition—to be adopted, polished, and presented as a society bride for an English lord—Keira sees an opportunity she can’t pass up.
Maude’s nephew, Alexander Paxton-Hill, is skeptical from the start. Tasked with teaching Keira the art of charm and flirtation, he soon finds himself captivated by her honesty and warmth as she challenges everything he thought he knew about love—and about himself.
After navigating the glittering, treacherous world of New York society, Keira arrives in England and catches the eye of the elusive Duke of Severton. She’s poised to win everything until a lavish ball, a long-buried secret, and one reckless act of love threaten to unravel it all. Now Keira must the role she’s been prepared to play—or the woman she’s become.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2026
152 people are currently reading
810 people want to read
About the author
Gabrielle Meyer
80 books2,827 followersGabrielle Meyer grew up above a carriage house on a historic estate near the banks of the Mississippi River, imagining real and make-believe stories about the occupants who had lived there. She went on to work for the Minnesota Historical Society and loves writing fiction inspired by real people, places, and events. She currently resides in central Minnesota on the banks of the Mississippi River, not far from where she grew up, with her husband and four children. By day, she’s a busy homeschool mom, and by night she pens fiction and non-fiction filled with hope. Learn more about Gabrielle and her writing by visiting www.gabriellemeyer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
January 8, 2026
In an Nutshell: A historical romance inspired by the classic musical, ‘My Fair Lady’. Christian fiction. Excellent characters and plotline. Great exploration of the gilded era, social mores, and emotions. Does far better justice to the adopted-heiress trope. The first of the ‘Dollar Princess’ series, but standalone. Much recommended. ♫‘Wouldn’t it be loverly’♫ to read more such adaptations? 😍
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Retellings are aplenty in today’s fiction. We have seen retellings of fairy tales and mythologies and classic novels. But how many times have we heard of a movie retelling?
To be fair, the classic Hollywood musical ‘My Fair Lady’ itself was adapted from the stage musical by the same name, which in turn was a heavily romanticised adaptation of Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw’s ‘Pygmalion’. Pygmalion didn’t have the problematic ending that ‘My Fair lady’ does. GBS was in fact quite insistent that ‘When Eliza emancipates herself […] she must not relapse.’ The ending of the musical was thus a giant contradiction of his wishes.
I have always been fond of old Hollywood musicals, but for the above reason, and despite its outstanding songs and Audrey Hepburn’s mesmerising performance, ‘My Fair Lady’ was never a favourite of mine. Every time I watch it, I can't help wish for a different ending. Eliza deserved so much better! (In preparation for this novel, I watched it once again, this time with my elder daughter. Her irritation at the injustice of the ending echoed mine.)
Why did I go for a book that retells a movie I dislike?
Just one reason. Gabrielle Meyer. The only author whose historical romances – a genre I have long stopped adding to my TBR – I still read. I am a huge fan of her Timeless series, so when she announced that she was working on a new series of five books retelling five classic Hollywood musicals and set in the Gilded Age, I had no doubt I would be on board.
As my rating tells you, my faith in her is justified.
Bookish Yays:
💰 The fabulous transposition of ‘My Fair Lady’ into ‘To Love a Lady’. There’s a change in era, location, plot, and characters and yet, there are enough glimpses of the original to help us *feel* the retelling. (I love that Higgins is the butler this time! 😂)
💰 The ironing-out of the problematic content of ‘My Fair Lady’, and retaining only as much as is required to make this novel convincing as a retelling.
💰 The freshness of the plotline despite the retelling, with the new location and era adding much charm and authenticity. This story, even with its larger-than-life grandeur, feels far more believable.
💰 The correct approach to such a story. ‘My Fair Lady’ feels more like a farce, making a comedy out of a tragedy, expecting us to laugh at the mental and physical abuse Eliza Dolittle has to endure at the hands of the egoistic Higgins. This novel is never a comedy. (And it helps that Maude is a somewhat more palatable version of the pompous professor.)
💰 Keira – such a wonderful character! Initially, it was tough for me not to picture Audrey Hepburn as Keira. But the power of Meyer's writing is such that after a while, Audrey Hepburn faded away and Keira O'Day took her own independent shape in my mind. I loved her character, especially as she showed both vulnerability and spunk in the right measure.
💰 Keira being the first-person narrator. An excellent writing choice, because we get to see her trials and tribulations from her own viewpoint. Unlike the movie, which focusses mainly on Eliza’s voice modulation and accent-related struggles, the book also shows us Keira’s reaction to her sudden wealthy lifestyle and her worry over her other family members back home still struggling with poverty.
💰 Alexander. A lady needs a gentleman, and Alec was the perfect one! I love that he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions.
💰 Maude – an apt, though somewhat annoying antagonist. Her character was probably the toughest to convey effectively as she could be quite callous with others while still being generous (albeit for selfish reasons). She tested my patience many times, but that only proves the success of her character development.
💰 The historically accurate detailing of the Gilded Age, with its opulent parties, powerful matrons, grandiose gowns, and aggressive social-climbing. Fascinating!
💰 The romance. Slowburn and satisfying. A romance anyway doesn’t follow a twisty road but a mostly straight path towards an expected destination. Despite the directness of the route, the author manages to push in a couple of surprises. I could guess one major reveal beforehand, but still enjoyed it.
💰 The use of the two locations – USA and England – in the plot, with a clear portrayal of their contrary attitudes while still depicting their shared antipathy for the Irish.
💰 The Christian content. I love how the author incorporates faith into her plots without turning the books preachy. Moreover, her faith-related thoughts are somehow always reassuring to me.
💰 The ending – 100 times better than the movie ending! ♫‘I could have danced all night’♫ in happiness!
💰 The author's note – as impeccable as always, demonstrating her research as well as her eye for detail.
💰 The cover art – perfection!
Bookish Okays:
💵 Because Maude keeps ignoring a certain issue, Keira has to keep worrying about it. This makes her narration a bit repetitive at times.
Overall, I had a great time reading this story. These days, I am more of a historical reader than a romance reader, but as I said, I happily read romances written by this author; to date, she hasn’t failed me even once! Her characters, her historical detailing, her plotlines, and her faith-related inclusions always work well in tandem to create a memorable narrative. I especially love how she turns even a predictable genre such as romance into a satisfying endeavour.
This is the first of a planned five-book series. I am not at liberty to reveal all five musicals that inspire this set, but trust me, I am so very excited for the rest! Of the five movies chosen by the author, the only one that isn’t a huge favourite of mine is ‘My Fair Lady’. So if its novelised upgrade went so well for me, I can't wait to see what she does with the remaining movies!
The books are planned as standalone works, but while reading this novel, I got the feeling that some characters might be used later. So I took a quick peek at the second book’s blurb and squealed in delight at the confirmation of my suspicion. Not revealing more! 🤐 Just keep in mind: don’t read the blurb of Book Two before completing Book One! I already have a secret wishlist of characters I want to see in the subsequent books. ♫‘With a little bit of luck’♫, I’ll see them all find happiness in the upcoming pages!
Definitely recommended. This would be a *loverly* book for all fans of historical romance and of the golden era of Hollywood musicals. You don’t need to be familiar with ‘My Fair Lady’ before reading this, but you will appreciate it more if you do.
4.5 stars.
My thanks to author Gabrielle Meyer for providing me with a complimentary copy of “To Love a Lady” at my request. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The digital version of this book is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
1882. Twenty-one-year-old Keira O'Day, abandoned by her parents in childhood, has grown up with her uncaring relatives in the tenements of NYC, scraping by somehow. So when a wealthy eccentric widow named Maude Hill makes a wild proposition, Keira hesitates only a little before accepting. The plan is that Maude, an unflappable social climber, will adopt Keira, train her to be a lady, and present her as a rich bride for any titled English gentleman who needs American wealth. Maude’s nephew Alexander is sceptical of the whole endeavour, but has to do his part in training Keira as per his aunt’s instructions. Even if it means stifling his own attraction to the potential society debutante. When the trio reach England, Keira has to perform the role of a lifetime. But can she really marry a lord when her heart lies with someone else?
The story comes to us in Keira’s first-person perspective.
Retellings are aplenty in today’s fiction. We have seen retellings of fairy tales and mythologies and classic novels. But how many times have we heard of a movie retelling?
To be fair, the classic Hollywood musical ‘My Fair Lady’ itself was adapted from the stage musical by the same name, which in turn was a heavily romanticised adaptation of Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw’s ‘Pygmalion’. Pygmalion didn’t have the problematic ending that ‘My Fair lady’ does. GBS was in fact quite insistent that ‘When Eliza emancipates herself […] she must not relapse.’ The ending of the musical was thus a giant contradiction of his wishes.
I have always been fond of old Hollywood musicals, but for the above reason, and despite its outstanding songs and Audrey Hepburn’s mesmerising performance, ‘My Fair Lady’ was never a favourite of mine. Every time I watch it, I can't help wish for a different ending. Eliza deserved so much better! (In preparation for this novel, I watched it once again, this time with my elder daughter. Her irritation at the injustice of the ending echoed mine.)
Why did I go for a book that retells a movie I dislike?
Just one reason. Gabrielle Meyer. The only author whose historical romances – a genre I have long stopped adding to my TBR – I still read. I am a huge fan of her Timeless series, so when she announced that she was working on a new series of five books retelling five classic Hollywood musicals and set in the Gilded Age, I had no doubt I would be on board.
As my rating tells you, my faith in her is justified.
Bookish Yays:
💰 The fabulous transposition of ‘My Fair Lady’ into ‘To Love a Lady’. There’s a change in era, location, plot, and characters and yet, there are enough glimpses of the original to help us *feel* the retelling. (I love that Higgins is the butler this time! 😂)
💰 The ironing-out of the problematic content of ‘My Fair Lady’, and retaining only as much as is required to make this novel convincing as a retelling.
💰 The freshness of the plotline despite the retelling, with the new location and era adding much charm and authenticity. This story, even with its larger-than-life grandeur, feels far more believable.
💰 The correct approach to such a story. ‘My Fair Lady’ feels more like a farce, making a comedy out of a tragedy, expecting us to laugh at the mental and physical abuse Eliza Dolittle has to endure at the hands of the egoistic Higgins. This novel is never a comedy. (And it helps that Maude is a somewhat more palatable version of the pompous professor.)
💰 Keira – such a wonderful character! Initially, it was tough for me not to picture Audrey Hepburn as Keira. But the power of Meyer's writing is such that after a while, Audrey Hepburn faded away and Keira O'Day took her own independent shape in my mind. I loved her character, especially as she showed both vulnerability and spunk in the right measure.
💰 Keira being the first-person narrator. An excellent writing choice, because we get to see her trials and tribulations from her own viewpoint. Unlike the movie, which focusses mainly on Eliza’s voice modulation and accent-related struggles, the book also shows us Keira’s reaction to her sudden wealthy lifestyle and her worry over her other family members back home still struggling with poverty.
💰 Alexander. A lady needs a gentleman, and Alec was the perfect one! I love that he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions.
💰 Maude – an apt, though somewhat annoying antagonist. Her character was probably the toughest to convey effectively as she could be quite callous with others while still being generous (albeit for selfish reasons). She tested my patience many times, but that only proves the success of her character development.
💰 The historically accurate detailing of the Gilded Age, with its opulent parties, powerful matrons, grandiose gowns, and aggressive social-climbing. Fascinating!
💰 The romance. Slowburn and satisfying. A romance anyway doesn’t follow a twisty road but a mostly straight path towards an expected destination. Despite the directness of the route, the author manages to push in a couple of surprises. I could guess one major reveal beforehand, but still enjoyed it.
💰 The use of the two locations – USA and England – in the plot, with a clear portrayal of their contrary attitudes while still depicting their shared antipathy for the Irish.
💰 The Christian content. I love how the author incorporates faith into her plots without turning the books preachy. Moreover, her faith-related thoughts are somehow always reassuring to me.
💰 The ending – 100 times better than the movie ending! ♫‘I could have danced all night’♫ in happiness!
💰 The author's note – as impeccable as always, demonstrating her research as well as her eye for detail.
💰 The cover art – perfection!
Bookish Okays:
💵 Because Maude keeps ignoring a certain issue, Keira has to keep worrying about it. This makes her narration a bit repetitive at times.
Overall, I had a great time reading this story. These days, I am more of a historical reader than a romance reader, but as I said, I happily read romances written by this author; to date, she hasn’t failed me even once! Her characters, her historical detailing, her plotlines, and her faith-related inclusions always work well in tandem to create a memorable narrative. I especially love how she turns even a predictable genre such as romance into a satisfying endeavour.
This is the first of a planned five-book series. I am not at liberty to reveal all five musicals that inspire this set, but trust me, I am so very excited for the rest! Of the five movies chosen by the author, the only one that isn’t a huge favourite of mine is ‘My Fair Lady’. So if its novelised upgrade went so well for me, I can't wait to see what she does with the remaining movies!
The books are planned as standalone works, but while reading this novel, I got the feeling that some characters might be used later. So I took a quick peek at the second book’s blurb and squealed in delight at the confirmation of my suspicion. Not revealing more! 🤐 Just keep in mind: don’t read the blurb of Book Two before completing Book One! I already have a secret wishlist of characters I want to see in the subsequent books. ♫‘With a little bit of luck’♫, I’ll see them all find happiness in the upcoming pages!
Definitely recommended. This would be a *loverly* book for all fans of historical romance and of the golden era of Hollywood musicals. You don’t need to be familiar with ‘My Fair Lady’ before reading this, but you will appreciate it more if you do.
4.5 stars.
My thanks to author Gabrielle Meyer for providing me with a complimentary copy of “To Love a Lady” at my request. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
The digital version of this book is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
January 13, 2026
"Before I met Aunt Maude, I had thought God had forgotten about me or never knew I existed. Yet looking over the course of my life, I could see His hand at work, even in the difficult times. Everything had happened for a reason, and He has been gracious and faithful to reveal it to me."
To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer
Another amazing read from the talented Gabrielle Meyer! I truly enjoyed this Gilded Age retelling of My Fair Lady. From the beautiful Christian messages and life lesson reminders to the character development and plot twist reveal, I simply adored the whole thing!
Keira O'Day grew up in the slums of NYC until one day Aunt Maude Hill and her nephew, Alec Paxton-Hill, came across her selling flowers outside the opera house. Her life forever changes, as she is taken under Aunt Maude's wing to become a lady of society and destined to marry a duke in England. While in England, she learns some shocking things about her past. She also learns some important life lessons and is reminded of God's love and plan for her.
I adored Alec so much! He is tender, sweet, thoughtful, and a perfect gentleman who sees the real beauty in Keira. I loved their sweet forbidden romance. I really wondered how things were going to work out between them and how they would get their HEA, but everything worked out so well in the end!
Keira is beautiful not only on the outside, but also on the inside. I appreciated how she maintained her goodness and inner beauty throughout the story, despite her being introduced into the upper classes.
I was truly shocked by the extravagant living and expenditure of the upper class of NY and London! This side of London society is not often shown in novels, and so it was unique to see that and get that perspective on life in upper society in this novel. The secrets, the over spending, the scandals that happened.
As always I was eager to read Gabrielle's historical notes at the end to see which historical events really happened and the research she did for this novel. I was not disappointed and learned some new things about that time period.
I definitely recommend this book to any fan of My Fair Lady, the Gilded Age, and/or uniquely written Historical Romances!
Favorite Parts:
Flirting lessons
Alec
Piano and singing scene
Learning to be a lady
Christmas breakfast
Christmas party/social event
Forbidden love aka It’s complicated
Dancing with Alec
Alec’s small gesture
Mystery surrounding her origins
Mystery surrounding the Duke
Huge plot reveal!
The whole ending!
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Closed-door: sweet passionate kiss, Child conceived out of wedlock (mentioned as happening in the past), brothel is mentioned (briefly, as somewhere someone might be), brothels/prostitutes (only mentioned briefly in conversation)
Violence/gore: Mild-Murder (mentioned as happening in past)
Substance Use: Mild- social drinking
Prejudices: Social classes
Religious Content: Christian themes-God’s Plan, Created with a special purpose, Daughter of a King
Other: Talk of ghosts, haunted castle, adoption, orphan
Book Info:
Series: American Dollar Princess bk 1
Genre: Historical Romance; Gilded Age/Victorian era
Romance Level: Closed-door
Release Date: Available now
Publisher: Belle May Press (Indie)
POV: Single first person
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer
Another amazing read from the talented Gabrielle Meyer! I truly enjoyed this Gilded Age retelling of My Fair Lady. From the beautiful Christian messages and life lesson reminders to the character development and plot twist reveal, I simply adored the whole thing!
Keira O'Day grew up in the slums of NYC until one day Aunt Maude Hill and her nephew, Alec Paxton-Hill, came across her selling flowers outside the opera house. Her life forever changes, as she is taken under Aunt Maude's wing to become a lady of society and destined to marry a duke in England. While in England, she learns some shocking things about her past. She also learns some important life lessons and is reminded of God's love and plan for her.
I adored Alec so much! He is tender, sweet, thoughtful, and a perfect gentleman who sees the real beauty in Keira. I loved their sweet forbidden romance. I really wondered how things were going to work out between them and how they would get their HEA, but everything worked out so well in the end!
Keira is beautiful not only on the outside, but also on the inside. I appreciated how she maintained her goodness and inner beauty throughout the story, despite her being introduced into the upper classes.
I was truly shocked by the extravagant living and expenditure of the upper class of NY and London! This side of London society is not often shown in novels, and so it was unique to see that and get that perspective on life in upper society in this novel. The secrets, the over spending, the scandals that happened.
As always I was eager to read Gabrielle's historical notes at the end to see which historical events really happened and the research she did for this novel. I was not disappointed and learned some new things about that time period.
I definitely recommend this book to any fan of My Fair Lady, the Gilded Age, and/or uniquely written Historical Romances!
Favorite Parts:
Flirting lessons
Alec
Piano and singing scene
Learning to be a lady
Christmas breakfast
Christmas party/social event
Forbidden love aka It’s complicated
Dancing with Alec
Alec’s small gesture
Mystery surrounding her origins
Mystery surrounding the Duke
Huge plot reveal!
The whole ending!
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Closed-door: sweet passionate kiss, Child conceived out of wedlock (mentioned as happening in the past), brothel is mentioned (briefly, as somewhere someone might be), brothels/prostitutes (only mentioned briefly in conversation)
Violence/gore: Mild-Murder (mentioned as happening in past)
Substance Use: Mild- social drinking
Prejudices: Social classes
Religious Content: Christian themes-God’s Plan, Created with a special purpose, Daughter of a King
Other: Talk of ghosts, haunted castle, adoption, orphan
Book Info:
Series: American Dollar Princess bk 1
Genre: Historical Romance; Gilded Age/Victorian era
Romance Level: Closed-door
Release Date: Available now
Publisher: Belle May Press (Indie)
POV: Single first person
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
January 12, 2026
Overall, this was a great story! It was inspired by My Fair Lady. I wish there would have been a little more elements like My Fair Lady but that’s ok. I loved Kiera and Alec! It got a tiny bit slow for me in the middle but then picked up in the second half. Good Christian content and I enjoyed it!
December 7, 2025
4.5 stars!!
There are not many things that can make me happier than reading a book. But taking a favorite classic movie/musical and retelling it Gabrielle Meyer style is a guaranteed good time.
When Gabrielle approached our Ladies of Wilderness launch team with the premise of this series, I was overjoyed. The concept of retelling iconic musicals, the stunning covers, the promise of multiple books to enjoy was so exciting. I love her ability to effortlessly create story after story with heart stopping romance and immersive, vivid historical details.
To Love a Lady was a fun twist on My Fair Lady and it delivered. Kiera/Clara was genuine, lovable, and charismatic. Like Audrey Hepburn, you couldn’t resist falling under her spell.
I am extremely excited for the next book, as we have already been introduced to the leading characters and the musical retelling, it is sure to be entertaining! It would also be wonderful if George was to get a story somehow, some way. He deserves a happy ending.
Thank you Gabrielle for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
There are not many things that can make me happier than reading a book. But taking a favorite classic movie/musical and retelling it Gabrielle Meyer style is a guaranteed good time.
When Gabrielle approached our Ladies of Wilderness launch team with the premise of this series, I was overjoyed. The concept of retelling iconic musicals, the stunning covers, the promise of multiple books to enjoy was so exciting. I love her ability to effortlessly create story after story with heart stopping romance and immersive, vivid historical details.
To Love a Lady was a fun twist on My Fair Lady and it delivered. Kiera/Clara was genuine, lovable, and charismatic. Like Audrey Hepburn, you couldn’t resist falling under her spell.
I am extremely excited for the next book, as we have already been introduced to the leading characters and the musical retelling, it is sure to be entertaining! It would also be wonderful if George was to get a story somehow, some way. He deserves a happy ending.
Thank you Gabrielle for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
January 12, 2026
I received an advance review copy of this novel from the author. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
To Love a Lady is a Gilded Age romance inspired by “My Fair Lady,” which, I have to confess, I had never watched before reading this book. While I see the charm of the beloved musical, I actually prefer Meyer’s plot to that of the Hepburn movie. While Eliza Doolittle has plenty of personality, Keira O’Day has heart. Her story charmed me. And Henry Higgins has nothing on Alexander Paxton-Hill. Having now watched the musical, I have an even deeper appreciation for To Love a Lady. Meyer did a brilliant job weaving in countless small nods to “My Fair Lady” while also telling her own wonderful, transportive story.
Keira O’Day is selling silk flowers outside of the opera when her life is changed forever. She’s never known anything but her rough, poor existence in Five Points, one of the most infamous tenement neighborhoods in New York City. But under the dirt and malnourishment and resignation, Keira’s beauty still shines through. Maude Hill, a wealthy nouveau riche widow who will do anything to be accepted into old money social circles, sees in Keira a way to secure that acceptance. If she adopts the downtrodden flower girl and completely rewrites her, training her how to speak and walk and dress and think, Keira—who Maude will rename Clara—will be lovely enough to attract an aristocratic, titled British husband. If Maude is the mother-in-law of a duke or a lord, high society will have no choice but to accept her into the fold.
The lavish waste of the upper crust of the Gilded Age, especially the nouveau riche who were so desperate to impress and win the favor of the old-money families, is absolutely appalling to consider. Imagine spending $50,000 or $250,000 on a single event. Especially when you didn't really have it to spend. And that's not even accounting for the inflation we would have to apply between that time and today! I'm not a fan of stories that hinge so much on finances, on societal and political maneuvering. So much maneuvering. I enjoyed the heart of this story, the characters and the romance and the faith. But that enjoyment was in spite of the aforementioned elements, though I understand their necessity to the story being told. And I loved how some of the dresses described align beautifully with Hepburn's wardrobe in “My Fair Lady.”
I really appreciated the faith aspect of this. Keira/Clara was raised attending Mass, but with no personal relationship of her own with God. Alexander, or Alec, is the catalyst for change here. Observing Alec's very sincere, personal faith has a radical impact on her, and on her view of who God is. Which goes right along with the key themes woven through the story. No one is a mistake. Not even you. No matter how you may feel about yourself. No matter how you've been treated by others or how you were conceived. God uniquely crafted you, and there will never be another you. You are the child of the King!
I thoroughly enjoyed this Gilded Age tale, and am thankful it compelled me to watch a beloved musical that I had missed out on. I loved Keira’s journey, as well as the romance and the blossoming faith Meyer wove into her story. To Love a Lady was not only a joy in its own right, it also made me incredibly excited for the other four books to come in the Dollar Princess series. I was so intrigued by some of these side characters, and I cannot wait to read their stories.
To Love a Lady is a Gilded Age romance inspired by “My Fair Lady,” which, I have to confess, I had never watched before reading this book. While I see the charm of the beloved musical, I actually prefer Meyer’s plot to that of the Hepburn movie. While Eliza Doolittle has plenty of personality, Keira O’Day has heart. Her story charmed me. And Henry Higgins has nothing on Alexander Paxton-Hill. Having now watched the musical, I have an even deeper appreciation for To Love a Lady. Meyer did a brilliant job weaving in countless small nods to “My Fair Lady” while also telling her own wonderful, transportive story.
“I had thought God had forgotten about me or never knew I existed. Yet looking over the course of my life, I could see His hand at work, even in the difficult times. Everything had happened for a reason, and He had been gracious and faithful to reveal it to me.”
Keira O’Day is selling silk flowers outside of the opera when her life is changed forever. She’s never known anything but her rough, poor existence in Five Points, one of the most infamous tenement neighborhoods in New York City. But under the dirt and malnourishment and resignation, Keira’s beauty still shines through. Maude Hill, a wealthy nouveau riche widow who will do anything to be accepted into old money social circles, sees in Keira a way to secure that acceptance. If she adopts the downtrodden flower girl and completely rewrites her, training her how to speak and walk and dress and think, Keira—who Maude will rename Clara—will be lovely enough to attract an aristocratic, titled British husband. If Maude is the mother-in-law of a duke or a lord, high society will have no choice but to accept her into the fold.
The lavish waste of the upper crust of the Gilded Age, especially the nouveau riche who were so desperate to impress and win the favor of the old-money families, is absolutely appalling to consider. Imagine spending $50,000 or $250,000 on a single event. Especially when you didn't really have it to spend. And that's not even accounting for the inflation we would have to apply between that time and today! I'm not a fan of stories that hinge so much on finances, on societal and political maneuvering. So much maneuvering. I enjoyed the heart of this story, the characters and the romance and the faith. But that enjoyment was in spite of the aforementioned elements, though I understand their necessity to the story being told. And I loved how some of the dresses described align beautifully with Hepburn's wardrobe in “My Fair Lady.”
“No matter what any of these people think of you,” he whispered. “Your identity is not in the circumstances of your birth, or where you were raised, or even in the prince’s acceptance of you. It’s in who God says you are. He sees you, values you, and calls you His own. I hope you’ll start to believe that in God’s eyes, you’re more than a duchess. You are the daughter of a King.”
I really appreciated the faith aspect of this. Keira/Clara was raised attending Mass, but with no personal relationship of her own with God. Alexander, or Alec, is the catalyst for change here. Observing Alec's very sincere, personal faith has a radical impact on her, and on her view of who God is. Which goes right along with the key themes woven through the story. No one is a mistake. Not even you. No matter how you may feel about yourself. No matter how you've been treated by others or how you were conceived. God uniquely crafted you, and there will never be another you. You are the child of the King!
“God has a plan for each of us,” Alec continued. “One that is filled with hope. Perhaps your parents didn’t intend to have a baby, and you were abandoned at a young age, but God still has a wonderful purpose for your life, if you are willing to submit to His plan. Nothing in His kingdom is wasted, Keira.”
I thoroughly enjoyed this Gilded Age tale, and am thankful it compelled me to watch a beloved musical that I had missed out on. I loved Keira’s journey, as well as the romance and the blossoming faith Meyer wove into her story. To Love a Lady was not only a joy in its own right, it also made me incredibly excited for the other four books to come in the Dollar Princess series. I was so intrigued by some of these side characters, and I cannot wait to read their stories.
January 14, 2026
✨ 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐲… 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐬. ✨
What if the opportunity of a lifetime showed up… with a new name, a rulebook, & a very inconvenient man attached?
Set in glittering, cutthroat New York City in 1883, To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer catapulted me from the grit of Five Points straight into chandeliers, champagne, & society judgment. It’s My Fair Lady–inspired, yes—but smarter, warmer, & far more emotionally satisfying.
Keira O’Day has survived poverty, abandonment, & being largely ignored by the world. So when a wealthy social climber offers to adopt her, polish her, & send her off as a society bride for an English lord, Keira says yes—because hope is risky, but staying invisible is worse. Enter Alexander Paxton-Hill: reluctant tutor, steady presence, & walking emotional complication. Etiquette lessons turn into feelings, feelings turn into problems, & suddenly everyone is pretending not to notice.
Once England enters the chat—along with a duke, a lavish ball, a prince, & a few secrets that refuse to stay buried—Keira must decide whether she’s going to perform the role she was trained for… or live as the woman she’s become.
WHAT I LOVED:
✨ Gilded Age glamour with sharp social commentary (rich people behaving badly—historically accurate)
🌸 Keira: tender, brave, & impossible not to root for
🎩 Alexander Paxton-Hill: calm, kind, emotionally competent (swoon, responsibly)
💃 A transformation arc that’s about identity—not just better dresses
📜 Faith woven naturally without hijacking the story
🎶 My Fair Lady nods that made me smile instead of side-eye
TOP MOMENTS (without spoilers);
💬 “Lessons” that immediately stop being professional
🎼 A soft, emotional music moment
🎭 A ball that quietly detonates everything
📖 A reveal that made me pause, blink, & reread
FINAL THOUGHTS:
💭 This looks like a cozy historical romance—and it is—but it also has depth, purpose, & heart. Gabrielle Meyer takes a familiar premise & elevates it into a story about identity, worth, & choosing who you are when everyone else already has plans for you.
👉🏻 Read if you love clean romance with emotional payoff, My Fair Lady vibes (but a better ending), & historical stories that balance charm with meaning.
I received an ebook from the author. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own.
CONTENT DISCLOSURE:
🤬 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙛𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮/𝙇𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙜𝙚: None
❤️ 𝙎𝙚𝙭𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩/𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚: Closed-door. Sweet & implied intimacy. Child conceived out of wedlock (past tense). Brothels/prostitutes referenced.
🥊 𝙑𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚: None. Murder mentioned in past tense.
🥺 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨/𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙨: Mental and emotional manipulation, child abandonment, poverty, hunger, adoption, rags to riches, class hardship.
🎬 𝙏𝙑/𝙁𝙞𝙡𝙢 𝙀𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮: Likely PG
RATING:
📖 𝟰.𝟱/𝟱 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀. Elegant, emotionally satisfying, and beautifully researched with a swoony, clean romance and meaningful faith elements. I docked half a star only because a few middle sections lingered a bit longer than necessary on society logistics—but the payoff, character growth, and ending more than made up for it.
What if the opportunity of a lifetime showed up… with a new name, a rulebook, & a very inconvenient man attached?
Set in glittering, cutthroat New York City in 1883, To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer catapulted me from the grit of Five Points straight into chandeliers, champagne, & society judgment. It’s My Fair Lady–inspired, yes—but smarter, warmer, & far more emotionally satisfying.
Keira O’Day has survived poverty, abandonment, & being largely ignored by the world. So when a wealthy social climber offers to adopt her, polish her, & send her off as a society bride for an English lord, Keira says yes—because hope is risky, but staying invisible is worse. Enter Alexander Paxton-Hill: reluctant tutor, steady presence, & walking emotional complication. Etiquette lessons turn into feelings, feelings turn into problems, & suddenly everyone is pretending not to notice.
Once England enters the chat—along with a duke, a lavish ball, a prince, & a few secrets that refuse to stay buried—Keira must decide whether she’s going to perform the role she was trained for… or live as the woman she’s become.
WHAT I LOVED:
✨ Gilded Age glamour with sharp social commentary (rich people behaving badly—historically accurate)
🌸 Keira: tender, brave, & impossible not to root for
🎩 Alexander Paxton-Hill: calm, kind, emotionally competent (swoon, responsibly)
💃 A transformation arc that’s about identity—not just better dresses
📜 Faith woven naturally without hijacking the story
🎶 My Fair Lady nods that made me smile instead of side-eye
TOP MOMENTS (without spoilers);
💬 “Lessons” that immediately stop being professional
🎼 A soft, emotional music moment
🎭 A ball that quietly detonates everything
📖 A reveal that made me pause, blink, & reread
FINAL THOUGHTS:
💭 This looks like a cozy historical romance—and it is—but it also has depth, purpose, & heart. Gabrielle Meyer takes a familiar premise & elevates it into a story about identity, worth, & choosing who you are when everyone else already has plans for you.
👉🏻 Read if you love clean romance with emotional payoff, My Fair Lady vibes (but a better ending), & historical stories that balance charm with meaning.
I received an ebook from the author. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own.
CONTENT DISCLOSURE:
🤬 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙛𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮/𝙇𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙜𝙚: None
❤️ 𝙎𝙚𝙭𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩/𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚: Closed-door. Sweet & implied intimacy. Child conceived out of wedlock (past tense). Brothels/prostitutes referenced.
🥊 𝙑𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚: None. Murder mentioned in past tense.
🥺 𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨/𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙨: Mental and emotional manipulation, child abandonment, poverty, hunger, adoption, rags to riches, class hardship.
🎬 𝙏𝙑/𝙁𝙞𝙡𝙢 𝙀𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙮: Likely PG
RATING:
📖 𝟰.𝟱/𝟱 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀. Elegant, emotionally satisfying, and beautifully researched with a swoony, clean romance and meaningful faith elements. I docked half a star only because a few middle sections lingered a bit longer than necessary on society logistics—but the payoff, character growth, and ending more than made up for it.
January 20, 2026
💚 Book Review 💚
Thank you to the author for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: To Love a Lady
Author: Gabrielle Meyer
Genre: Historical Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: When Keira Day is spotted outside the opera house trying to make ends meet, Maude Hill deems her “the one,” Keira is swept into a world of dinners, dancing, and dashing gentlemen—including Maude’s nephew Alexander. Maude’s plan is to transform this poor Irish immigrant into a charming wealthy heiress and make a match in England in order to earn themselves a place in high society. Alexander is hesitant but Keira is caught up in the glimmer of this new world—at least at first. As the two spend time together, this English match looks less and less desirable. Perhaps riches aren’t as important as finding your worth in whose you are.
Analysis: In this beautiful My Fair Lady retelling, you’ll find the yourself lost in the luxuries of the historical American dollar princesses. I absolutely loved this rags-to-riches romance! The characters are delightful, and the plot surprised me more than once! I totally was not expecting a bit of a mystery in this one, but I loved it. One of my favorite things about Gabrielle’s writing is how organically she writes faith into her stories. It’s not cheesy or preachy, and though historically set, it still relates to so many of us today. If you’re looking for a sweet romance, historical intrigue, and deep faith, To Love a Lady should be on the top of your list to read next!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to the author for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: To Love a Lady
Author: Gabrielle Meyer
Genre: Historical Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: When Keira Day is spotted outside the opera house trying to make ends meet, Maude Hill deems her “the one,” Keira is swept into a world of dinners, dancing, and dashing gentlemen—including Maude’s nephew Alexander. Maude’s plan is to transform this poor Irish immigrant into a charming wealthy heiress and make a match in England in order to earn themselves a place in high society. Alexander is hesitant but Keira is caught up in the glimmer of this new world—at least at first. As the two spend time together, this English match looks less and less desirable. Perhaps riches aren’t as important as finding your worth in whose you are.
Analysis: In this beautiful My Fair Lady retelling, you’ll find the yourself lost in the luxuries of the historical American dollar princesses. I absolutely loved this rags-to-riches romance! The characters are delightful, and the plot surprised me more than once! I totally was not expecting a bit of a mystery in this one, but I loved it. One of my favorite things about Gabrielle’s writing is how organically she writes faith into her stories. It’s not cheesy or preachy, and though historically set, it still relates to so many of us today. If you’re looking for a sweet romance, historical intrigue, and deep faith, To Love a Lady should be on the top of your list to read next!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 11, 2026
I’ve always held a fascination for the Gilded Age and in fact, have visited the mansions in Newport a couple of times. Picturing the wealth, glamour, and society of the time really captures my imagination and I was thrilled to read To Love a Lady. Meyer does a beautiful job of captivating the reader with not only the imagery, but also with characters and situations that firmly plant this era in my heart and mind.
Keira (now known as Clara) lives a MY FAIR LADY experience when “Aunt” Maude adopts her to further the aunt’s status. I was charmed with every event and the parallels to this beloved musical that had me eagerly devouring each page. The twists that are unique to this retelling are so perfect, and I was truly swept away.
Clara is a delight, as is Alec, and I couldn’t get enough of Clara’s experience. To feel so blessed and lucky, and yet so trapped and beholden, is certainly a dilemma, and learning what you really want and how you actually feel about life is a life-altering process. This story is absolutely enchanting!
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Keira (now known as Clara) lives a MY FAIR LADY experience when “Aunt” Maude adopts her to further the aunt’s status. I was charmed with every event and the parallels to this beloved musical that had me eagerly devouring each page. The twists that are unique to this retelling are so perfect, and I was truly swept away.
Clara is a delight, as is Alec, and I couldn’t get enough of Clara’s experience. To feel so blessed and lucky, and yet so trapped and beholden, is certainly a dilemma, and learning what you really want and how you actually feel about life is a life-altering process. This story is absolutely enchanting!
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 21, 2026
4.5 This book immediately had me. I enjoyed the rags to riches trope. The story was vivid in my mind. Gabrielle knows how to pen a good novel.
January 10, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! Previously I have read all of the author’s Timeless novels and was intrigued by the creativity they showed. This takeoff on the Pygmalion story was cleverly written and enjoyable to read. My only criticism, and it is a small one, was that the Christian element seemed a bit forced, IMHO. I thought the author did a good job crafting a satisfying ending when I couldn’t figure how that could happen!
I look forward to reading the other books in this series!
I look forward to reading the other books in this series!
January 17, 2026
A Sweet and Satisfying Story
I’m a huge fan of Gabrielle Meyer and her Timeless series, so when I heard she was starting a new series that are Musical retellings and Dollar Princess stories of the Gilded Age, I was super excited! Those are all things that I love! I really enjoyed the story of Kiera O’Day transforming into Clara Day Hill, while still keeping true to herself. She is a sweet character that you root for her happiness. If you are in the mood for a sweet and satisfying clean romance, this is it!
I’m a huge fan of Gabrielle Meyer and her Timeless series, so when I heard she was starting a new series that are Musical retellings and Dollar Princess stories of the Gilded Age, I was super excited! Those are all things that I love! I really enjoyed the story of Kiera O’Day transforming into Clara Day Hill, while still keeping true to herself. She is a sweet character that you root for her happiness. If you are in the mood for a sweet and satisfying clean romance, this is it!
January 12, 2026
This needs to be a movie! I loved every minute of this book. Every time I read a Gabrielle Meyer book I am transported to a time and place that feels so real! I love reading about the Gilded Age so this book was so fun to be transported into the world. The love story is so beautifully written between Keira and Alec. I can’t wait for book 2 in this series!
January 15, 2026
This was such a cute story!
January 19, 2026
An unexpected plot twist
A rags to riches story that means so much more than money or outward beauty! Keira jumps at a chance for a better life, as would many of us, but it quickly is obvious what her agreement will cost her. And most important, she realizes she’s a child of the King!
A rags to riches story that means so much more than money or outward beauty! Keira jumps at a chance for a better life, as would many of us, but it quickly is obvious what her agreement will cost her. And most important, she realizes she’s a child of the King!
January 10, 2026
I just finished To Love a Lady, part of the "Dollar Princess Series" set in the Gilded Era, called this in America, it was about the same time as the Victorian era in England.
I loved everything about this book from the beginning to the end. It was similar to My Fair Lady, but to be honest, I liked this much better. The reason for trying to train a young woman to pass as a socialite was not a game. It was for prestige and financial gain. During the gilded era, Mrs. Astor determined who was allowed into elite society. It had to be old money, inherited, certainly not new money, as they called it, no matter how wealthy. But you could also get into the highest society by marrying into royalty, which is the premise of this story. The "Eliza Doolittle" character in this book was Keira O'Day, an extremely poor Irish immigrant taken from Five Points, the worst area in New York City in 1882. The fabulously wealthy Maude Hill was excluded from elite society so Keira O’Day was her ticket in. Maude saw Kiera in downtown New York immediately seeing her uncommon beauty and potential. If she could train her to pass as high society, then take her to England, her stunning attractiveness and "gentile" manners could attract and marry into nobility.
Maude's nephew, Alec, on the other hand, was not in favor of this scheme, but reluctantly went along with it and even assisted in Keira's training for his aunt's sake. Alec was such a gentleman and so likable!
Now, Kiera, whose name was changed to Clara to sound less Irish, was such a sweet character. She didn’t screech like Eliza Doolittle. She was compliant, but had a conscience about it. She wanted to help Maude but didn’t want to hurt people in the process.
Now, it sounds like I’m giving away a lot, but that’s just a tip of all that is in this delightful story. And as it is written by one of my favorite authors, it’s doubly wonderful. The addition of a gentle faith element was satisfying to me as well.
So glad I picked this up! I can and do recommend this to anyone! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series which will be about a Duke from book one. He was such an enigma, but one I wanted to know more about. Yay that he'll be in the next book.
I loved everything about this book from the beginning to the end. It was similar to My Fair Lady, but to be honest, I liked this much better. The reason for trying to train a young woman to pass as a socialite was not a game. It was for prestige and financial gain. During the gilded era, Mrs. Astor determined who was allowed into elite society. It had to be old money, inherited, certainly not new money, as they called it, no matter how wealthy. But you could also get into the highest society by marrying into royalty, which is the premise of this story. The "Eliza Doolittle" character in this book was Keira O'Day, an extremely poor Irish immigrant taken from Five Points, the worst area in New York City in 1882. The fabulously wealthy Maude Hill was excluded from elite society so Keira O’Day was her ticket in. Maude saw Kiera in downtown New York immediately seeing her uncommon beauty and potential. If she could train her to pass as high society, then take her to England, her stunning attractiveness and "gentile" manners could attract and marry into nobility.
Maude's nephew, Alec, on the other hand, was not in favor of this scheme, but reluctantly went along with it and even assisted in Keira's training for his aunt's sake. Alec was such a gentleman and so likable!
Now, Kiera, whose name was changed to Clara to sound less Irish, was such a sweet character. She didn’t screech like Eliza Doolittle. She was compliant, but had a conscience about it. She wanted to help Maude but didn’t want to hurt people in the process.
Now, it sounds like I’m giving away a lot, but that’s just a tip of all that is in this delightful story. And as it is written by one of my favorite authors, it’s doubly wonderful. The addition of a gentle faith element was satisfying to me as well.
So glad I picked this up! I can and do recommend this to anyone! I’m looking forward to the next book in the series which will be about a Duke from book one. He was such an enigma, but one I wanted to know more about. Yay that he'll be in the next book.
January 1, 2026
“If Alexander Paxton-Hill believed I could do this—then I would believe it, too.”
I have loved every book that I’ve read by Gabrielle Meyer and My Fair Lady has always been one of my favorite musicals. So, as soon as I heard that Gabrielle was writing a My Fair Lady retelling, I absolutely knew that I had to read it! And, she did not disappoint! This was a beautifully written story, set in gilded age New York. Keira has been grudgingly raised by her aunt and uncle. She has lived in poverty but dreamed of more. When she meets Alexander Paxton-Hill and his aunt, Maude, her life changes drastically. Maude decides to adopt Keira and introduce her to society, as her ward. Her goal is for Keira to marry a Duke and raise the social status of the family. I loved the connection between Keira and Alec and how kind he was to her, from the beginning. He always looked after her and was so patient. The contrast between Five Points, where Keira grew up, and the area around Fifth Avenue was just absolutely astonishing. The opulence that defined New York and London society were described so vividly that I could see it in my mind’s eye. I enjoyed how Alec and Keira’s relationship progressed and so many of the characters Keira met as Maude’s ward. The ending was a complete surprise and I really thought it was perfect. I am glad, though, that the sequel will be about the Duke because he seemed like a genuinely nice guy and I think Lily deserves to find someone wonderful.
A huge thank you to Gabrielle Meyer for the advance copy of this book! The content of my review were not affected by this in any way.
I have loved every book that I’ve read by Gabrielle Meyer and My Fair Lady has always been one of my favorite musicals. So, as soon as I heard that Gabrielle was writing a My Fair Lady retelling, I absolutely knew that I had to read it! And, she did not disappoint! This was a beautifully written story, set in gilded age New York. Keira has been grudgingly raised by her aunt and uncle. She has lived in poverty but dreamed of more. When she meets Alexander Paxton-Hill and his aunt, Maude, her life changes drastically. Maude decides to adopt Keira and introduce her to society, as her ward. Her goal is for Keira to marry a Duke and raise the social status of the family. I loved the connection between Keira and Alec and how kind he was to her, from the beginning. He always looked after her and was so patient. The contrast between Five Points, where Keira grew up, and the area around Fifth Avenue was just absolutely astonishing. The opulence that defined New York and London society were described so vividly that I could see it in my mind’s eye. I enjoyed how Alec and Keira’s relationship progressed and so many of the characters Keira met as Maude’s ward. The ending was a complete surprise and I really thought it was perfect. I am glad, though, that the sequel will be about the Duke because he seemed like a genuinely nice guy and I think Lily deserves to find someone wonderful.
A huge thank you to Gabrielle Meyer for the advance copy of this book! The content of my review were not affected by this in any way.
January 10, 2026
"Because hope is a dangerous mistress. It makes us do and say things we know we'll regret, though we can't help ourselves."
Oh my goodness I loved every minute of this historical romance. I mean you had me at My Fair Lady retelling. This has all the nods to the musical while still being its own unique story. Set in New York 1883, Keira O'Day was abandoned by her parents & was raised by her Aunt & Uncle in poor and dangerous neighborhood of Five Points. Everything changes when Maude Hill a wealthily widow offers her a proposition… she will adopt Kiera giving her everything anyone could desire in return Keira will go to England as a society bride to marry a title which will not only raise Maude’s social status but help Maude & her nephew, Alexander Paxton-Hill save their business. But things get messy as Alec & Kiera friendship deepens & they both realize they have feelings for each other. The gilded age is such a fascinating period where the elite rich showed off their wealth to gain social status while most Americans struggled to survive. I loved all the historical & faith elements plus it’s a beautiful love story. It’s sweet & swoony and will keep you turning the pages. I can’t wait for the next book in this series 🥰
“And Alec was right; it didn't matter what anyone thought. Only God's opinion mattered, and I was no less worthy of His love than anyone else.”
"I hope you'll start to believe that in God's eyes, you're more than a duchess. You are the daughter of a King."
Oh my goodness I loved every minute of this historical romance. I mean you had me at My Fair Lady retelling. This has all the nods to the musical while still being its own unique story. Set in New York 1883, Keira O'Day was abandoned by her parents & was raised by her Aunt & Uncle in poor and dangerous neighborhood of Five Points. Everything changes when Maude Hill a wealthily widow offers her a proposition… she will adopt Kiera giving her everything anyone could desire in return Keira will go to England as a society bride to marry a title which will not only raise Maude’s social status but help Maude & her nephew, Alexander Paxton-Hill save their business. But things get messy as Alec & Kiera friendship deepens & they both realize they have feelings for each other. The gilded age is such a fascinating period where the elite rich showed off their wealth to gain social status while most Americans struggled to survive. I loved all the historical & faith elements plus it’s a beautiful love story. It’s sweet & swoony and will keep you turning the pages. I can’t wait for the next book in this series 🥰
“And Alec was right; it didn't matter what anyone thought. Only God's opinion mattered, and I was no less worthy of His love than anyone else.”
"I hope you'll start to believe that in God's eyes, you're more than a duchess. You are the daughter of a King."
January 6, 2026
Gabrielle has done it yet again with another fantastic historical romance. I adore her writing style and the fact she can leave you intrigued at every single page. This story was beautiful and enchanting. I was so mesmerised by the story that I laughed with Keira, I cried with her, my cheeks reddened with her. My heart raced for her, I was excited for her. I can't wait for the next book. Gabrielle is a genius. Everything she writes is pure gold.
January 21, 2026
A chance meeting changes Kiera's life from destitute to living among the rich.
Aunt Maude wants to change everything about Kiera from her name to the way
she speaks and acts. Kiera will have beautiful gowns and a chance to marry well,
but she's like a puppet on a string, and Aunt Maude controls the handles.
I loved this first book in the series.
Aunt Maude wants to change everything about Kiera from her name to the way
she speaks and acts. Kiera will have beautiful gowns and a chance to marry well,
but she's like a puppet on a string, and Aunt Maude controls the handles.
I loved this first book in the series.
January 20, 2026
A daring, meticulous plan plants a former girl of the poor tenant arena into New Your City's finest homes. Can Clara transform her life and save the business and reputation of an aspiring family? Bravo, Gabrielle!
January 23, 2026
While I am a little disappointed for who the main character ended up with, I enjoyed this modern retelling of My Fair Lady. And the glimpses of characters from Gabrielle’s other book series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer is a delightful twist on a My Fair Lady–style retelling. The story offers a fresh take while still capturing the charm and heart of the classic inspiration. Watching the love story between the main characters slowly grow and blossom was an absolute joy, filled with tender moments and emotional depth. With its engaging characters and thoughtful romance, this book made for a truly enjoyable read!
January 8, 2026
Is it possible to read a Gabrielle Meyer book I don't love? I can't imagine it. Wow, wow, wow. It's early days in 2026, in fact, this was only my second book of the year, yet I will be shocked if this doesn't end up being a top 5 fave for this year. You'll love this book if you enjoy Regency era, forced marriage, hidden identity, forbidden love, and a compelling romance.
I was so curious how the fusion of Regency and My Fair Lady would be, but man was it done so beautifully. The Regency elements throughout the book were perfect. It felt like bringing the best of Jane Austen's stories and Bridgerton together. There was so much true history incorporated in (which Gabrielle Meyer always does a fantastic job with), and you learn about the social dynamics of New York and London during the Gilded & Victorian Age. The loose My Fair Lady retelling also pulled the best of that story into this plot. A rewatch is definitely a good idea before or after reading!
The grittiness of the Five Points tenement, the luxury of 5th Avenue mansions, and the utter sophistication of the townhomes in London during season were described in such realistic detail that you'll be pulled straight into the story, walking along Keira and Alec through their quest. Speaking of Keira (also known as Clara within the aristocracy) and Alec...what a pair. From the way they meet, to the sly glances, to their profession of love for each other that cannot be acted upon, their romance was so tender and sweet. No Darcy vibes here; the way that Alec loves Keira with such devotion and unconditional acceptance was refreshing. He never once judges her or thinks less of her; in fact, he values the struggles that made her the person he loves. Keira has to be the sweetest FMC I've read. Despite her upbringing and being used by "Aunt" Maude, she sacrifices her wants and dreams to please those she feels beholden to. Even the kindness and respect she shows to suitors that she isn't able to pursue shows her true character. These were some genuinely lovable characters. You'll find a few likable supporting characters, but also some villains in disguise that certainly don't have Keira's best interests at heart. Uncle Charlie and Aunt Orla, Aunt Muade, and even the Duke of Severton have questionable motives and intentions. Aunt Maude's ridiculous plan is so absurd, yet so realistic for the time period. Somehow, all the scheming against her ends up working in Keira's favor in the end. It gives strong 'God works all things together for good' themes.
If we are honest, we know that the MCs will almost always end up together– it's the romance formula. This particular couple had a lot going against them, so as I was reading, I'm just waiting to see what happenstantial magic occurs to give them a happy ending. BUT, not in a Gabrielle Meyer story. I did NOT see the plot twist coming. At all. Not even a remote inkling. I LOVE that this book, and Myer's other books, surprised me. The plot twist hits at about 85% (Kindle edition), and it was a jaw-dropper! The plot twist does open a door for the MCs to have their happily ever after, but it certainly did not happen through generic, conveniently placed events. I loved how the plot twist actually helped Keira to connect to God in a deeper way, but that ultimately, her confidence in her identity came from God first. I digress so I don't get into spoilers.
What I enjoyed about this book:
🌹 Moderate faith content
🌹 The pink rose (ifykyk)
🌹 Excellently written historical setting
🌹 A plot that takes you on a wild, yet thoroughly enjoyable ride
🌹 Characters that you want to be friends with
🌹 Bridging the worlds of New York in the Gilded Age with Regency England
🌹 Gorgeous dresses and fashion (they were gorgeous in my imagination at least!)
The faith content was present throughout the story. It wasn't heavy handed, and it was typically incorporated through Alec's words and actions. He acts as a tool to help Keira develop faith, and see God as a father instead of a distant being that only seems to exist on Sundays.
I didn't want this book to end. I raced through it, not wanting to put down, being so invested in the characters and plot. Be prepared to have the book ended blues with this one. Needless to say, I will be eagerly awaiting the two other books in this series (American Dollar Princess), which are releasing in May and November of this year. This is a, maybe THE, must read book in 2026!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
I was so curious how the fusion of Regency and My Fair Lady would be, but man was it done so beautifully. The Regency elements throughout the book were perfect. It felt like bringing the best of Jane Austen's stories and Bridgerton together. There was so much true history incorporated in (which Gabrielle Meyer always does a fantastic job with), and you learn about the social dynamics of New York and London during the Gilded & Victorian Age. The loose My Fair Lady retelling also pulled the best of that story into this plot. A rewatch is definitely a good idea before or after reading!
The grittiness of the Five Points tenement, the luxury of 5th Avenue mansions, and the utter sophistication of the townhomes in London during season were described in such realistic detail that you'll be pulled straight into the story, walking along Keira and Alec through their quest. Speaking of Keira (also known as Clara within the aristocracy) and Alec...what a pair. From the way they meet, to the sly glances, to their profession of love for each other that cannot be acted upon, their romance was so tender and sweet. No Darcy vibes here; the way that Alec loves Keira with such devotion and unconditional acceptance was refreshing. He never once judges her or thinks less of her; in fact, he values the struggles that made her the person he loves. Keira has to be the sweetest FMC I've read. Despite her upbringing and being used by "Aunt" Maude, she sacrifices her wants and dreams to please those she feels beholden to. Even the kindness and respect she shows to suitors that she isn't able to pursue shows her true character. These were some genuinely lovable characters. You'll find a few likable supporting characters, but also some villains in disguise that certainly don't have Keira's best interests at heart. Uncle Charlie and Aunt Orla, Aunt Muade, and even the Duke of Severton have questionable motives and intentions. Aunt Maude's ridiculous plan is so absurd, yet so realistic for the time period. Somehow, all the scheming against her ends up working in Keira's favor in the end. It gives strong 'God works all things together for good' themes.
If we are honest, we know that the MCs will almost always end up together– it's the romance formula. This particular couple had a lot going against them, so as I was reading, I'm just waiting to see what happenstantial magic occurs to give them a happy ending. BUT, not in a Gabrielle Meyer story. I did NOT see the plot twist coming. At all. Not even a remote inkling. I LOVE that this book, and Myer's other books, surprised me. The plot twist hits at about 85% (Kindle edition), and it was a jaw-dropper! The plot twist does open a door for the MCs to have their happily ever after, but it certainly did not happen through generic, conveniently placed events. I loved how the plot twist actually helped Keira to connect to God in a deeper way, but that ultimately, her confidence in her identity came from God first. I digress so I don't get into spoilers.
What I enjoyed about this book:
🌹 Moderate faith content
🌹 The pink rose (ifykyk)
🌹 Excellently written historical setting
🌹 A plot that takes you on a wild, yet thoroughly enjoyable ride
🌹 Characters that you want to be friends with
🌹 Bridging the worlds of New York in the Gilded Age with Regency England
🌹 Gorgeous dresses and fashion (they were gorgeous in my imagination at least!)
The faith content was present throughout the story. It wasn't heavy handed, and it was typically incorporated through Alec's words and actions. He acts as a tool to help Keira develop faith, and see God as a father instead of a distant being that only seems to exist on Sundays.
I didn't want this book to end. I raced through it, not wanting to put down, being so invested in the characters and plot. Be prepared to have the book ended blues with this one. Needless to say, I will be eagerly awaiting the two other books in this series (American Dollar Princess), which are releasing in May and November of this year. This is a, maybe THE, must read book in 2026!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
January 23, 2026
Believe me, I did not, do not, want to ask myself that question. In fact, the premise of the Dollar Princess series hooked me immediately. I loved musical theater before it was cool, and My Fair Lady was in my top two musicals for most of my childhood (The Sound of Music being the other). To Love a Lady, however, was not nearly as fair as I expected or wanted.
Granted, Gabrielle did try. For brief moments, I saw the author who has crafted six Timeless novels and gotten five stars from me almost every time. Kiera O'Day, for instance, is set up to be a compelling protagonist. She's written much like Eliza Doolittle, and when reading her physical description, I thought of a beautiful young Audrey Hepburn with ease. I rooted for her to find the life she dreamed of, without changing herself for anyone. And I liked Alec because he insisted Kiera not change, because he found her charming and "not like other girls," but wasn't condescending about it.
I also liked the 1880s New York setting. Kiera's dream of going West made me think of Newsies, on which I have had a "musical crush" for a while now. Additionally, I appreciated the juxtaposition of Kiera's raw honesty, her "real" life, against the glitter and fool's gold of the people and places she frequented. I wanted her to fit in and do well, not because she wasn't good enough but to show people like Maud, what genuineness looked and acted and felt like. I wanted Kiera to rebel, if quietly. That tension kept my pages turning but eventually had me frustrated with the book.
What I mean is, eventually, I started playing "what if." As in, yes, Kiera and Alec had chemistry and a compelling, class-crossing romance--but Gabrielle kept it pretty simplistic. What if, for instance, Alec had gotten to know Five Points a bit better? What if, instead of seemingly getting mad at him out of nowhere just because she was scared, Kiera struggled against what she would (rightly) see as Alec "slumming" or being morbidly curious? What if the inner tension Kiera dealt with, was turned up, delved into more deeply?
I know Gabrielle Meyer can do this. She can create three-dimensional characters and plot arcs with high emotional stakes. That's why it's so disappointing that here, for some reason, she did the exact opposite. Kiera tells us literally everything we need to know. She relies on narrative summary, letting us see little to nothing of her experiences or growth in real time. She has plenty to worry and angst about, but she does it over and over. As I've said in other reviews, it's the difference between having a character work through something, and having them get stuck. Kiera got stuck.
Now, that's not entirely her fault. Alec and Maude, the only two other characters with any development, are stuck in their roles, too. Alec I tolerated a bit better, because I kept seeing a more mature, grounded version of Freddy Hill from My Fair Lady with him. I loved that he stood up for Kiera and told Maude right out, "This needs to stop," "You're being ridiculous." But--he never moves past that. He continues to let his aunt do whatever she wants, and he keeps making the same blunder over and over of, sending Kiera the message that she is in fact lower than he is.
As for Maude...well, talk about getting on my nerves. This woman had me halfway up the wall. Okay, I understand that the premise requires some suspension of 21st-century emotions. Otherwise, I don't think this book would be readable. But still, the very idea of what Maude wants to do with Kiera and why? The fact that she never, not once, questions what Kiera and Alec want or whether what she's doing is ethical on the most basic level? I *could not* with her. If she had dealt with some tension, if she had been honestly kind to Kiera while still grappling with her "mission," it would be different. But as it is...no. Just no.
Again, I am bitterly disappointed and I can't believe Gabrielle Meyer wrote this. I'll stick to Timeless, because that series is *chef's kiss.* I also know she can and should continue writing other stories, and even after Timeless ends, I'll stick around. But this? It wasn't lovely at all.
Granted, Gabrielle did try. For brief moments, I saw the author who has crafted six Timeless novels and gotten five stars from me almost every time. Kiera O'Day, for instance, is set up to be a compelling protagonist. She's written much like Eliza Doolittle, and when reading her physical description, I thought of a beautiful young Audrey Hepburn with ease. I rooted for her to find the life she dreamed of, without changing herself for anyone. And I liked Alec because he insisted Kiera not change, because he found her charming and "not like other girls," but wasn't condescending about it.
I also liked the 1880s New York setting. Kiera's dream of going West made me think of Newsies, on which I have had a "musical crush" for a while now. Additionally, I appreciated the juxtaposition of Kiera's raw honesty, her "real" life, against the glitter and fool's gold of the people and places she frequented. I wanted her to fit in and do well, not because she wasn't good enough but to show people like Maud, what genuineness looked and acted and felt like. I wanted Kiera to rebel, if quietly. That tension kept my pages turning but eventually had me frustrated with the book.
What I mean is, eventually, I started playing "what if." As in, yes, Kiera and Alec had chemistry and a compelling, class-crossing romance--but Gabrielle kept it pretty simplistic. What if, for instance, Alec had gotten to know Five Points a bit better? What if, instead of seemingly getting mad at him out of nowhere just because she was scared, Kiera struggled against what she would (rightly) see as Alec "slumming" or being morbidly curious? What if the inner tension Kiera dealt with, was turned up, delved into more deeply?
I know Gabrielle Meyer can do this. She can create three-dimensional characters and plot arcs with high emotional stakes. That's why it's so disappointing that here, for some reason, she did the exact opposite. Kiera tells us literally everything we need to know. She relies on narrative summary, letting us see little to nothing of her experiences or growth in real time. She has plenty to worry and angst about, but she does it over and over. As I've said in other reviews, it's the difference between having a character work through something, and having them get stuck. Kiera got stuck.
Now, that's not entirely her fault. Alec and Maude, the only two other characters with any development, are stuck in their roles, too. Alec I tolerated a bit better, because I kept seeing a more mature, grounded version of Freddy Hill from My Fair Lady with him. I loved that he stood up for Kiera and told Maude right out, "This needs to stop," "You're being ridiculous." But--he never moves past that. He continues to let his aunt do whatever she wants, and he keeps making the same blunder over and over of, sending Kiera the message that she is in fact lower than he is.
As for Maude...well, talk about getting on my nerves. This woman had me halfway up the wall. Okay, I understand that the premise requires some suspension of 21st-century emotions. Otherwise, I don't think this book would be readable. But still, the very idea of what Maude wants to do with Kiera and why? The fact that she never, not once, questions what Kiera and Alec want or whether what she's doing is ethical on the most basic level? I *could not* with her. If she had dealt with some tension, if she had been honestly kind to Kiera while still grappling with her "mission," it would be different. But as it is...no. Just no.
Again, I am bitterly disappointed and I can't believe Gabrielle Meyer wrote this. I'll stick to Timeless, because that series is *chef's kiss.* I also know she can and should continue writing other stories, and even after Timeless ends, I'll stick around. But this? It wasn't lovely at all.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A huge thank you to author Gabrielle Meyer for an advance copy in exchange for a review!
"Two months ago, if he'd passed me on the street, he wouldn't have looked twice. Today, he'd come to call." (116).
Set in New York City of 1883, this book follows Keira O'Day who has been raised by her aunt and uncle after being abandoned by her parents as a baby. Raised in poverty, her life is altered drastically when she is spotted on the streets by a wealthy widow who offers to adopt her and present her as a society bride for an English lord, in a desperate bid to lend social prestige to her hotel business. To escape her impoverished life, Keira goes along with this plan and catches the eye of the Duke of Severton, but is heartbroken that keeping her end of the bargain means sacrificing her love for another man and a path that would bring her a much happier life.
This was beautifully done historical fiction that reimagines the My Fair Lady story as a Gilded Age New York City story. Gabrielle Meyer's choice to set the book in Gilded Age New York was an inspired choice! In this book, Keira becomes one of the many American heiresses that were married off to impoverished British aristocracy. The plot seamlessly intertwined with real life historical events taking place during that time period as wealthy New Yorkers competed for social prestige and were willing to do just about anything for entry into the most exclusive social circles. I have a great love for Gilded Age history and the author's knowledge of that time period was evident by how well researched this book was. I so impressed by the meticulous attention to historical detail that gave this book realism and enhanced Keira's love story. For instance, Keira attends her own coming out ball, that mirrors the extravagance of wealthy parties during the Gilded Age: "For party favors, Aunt Maude has chosen gold cigarette cases for the men and diamond necklaces for the women. The food, the champagne, the party favors, flowers, invitations, musicians, and extra staff had cost over fifty thousand dollars" (132).
This story has such a beautiful message of being true to yourself and also finding those who see the real you, regardless of circumstances. Alec meets Keira when she's an impoverished young woman selling silk flowers on the street, yet he is unfailingly kind and supportive of her from day one. I especially liked that he is very reluctant to call her Clara, her newly adopted named. Alec sees and cares for the true Keira and not the polished society image of her.
At the same time, I greatly appreciated the author's portrayal of the Duke of Severton. It would have been very easy to paint him as the villain of the story, solely trying to steal Keira away for her adopted wealth. While he admittedly isn't super friendly and has some alarming ghost stories circling about his adoptive home, he is always honest and upfront with Keira. I thought he was a fascinating figure with an interesting back story and am looking forward to hopefully learning more about him in the next book.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but this book has quite the twist concerning Keira's past! I loved learning in the author's note how this twist was grounded in historical facts. I think Keira has such an emotional hole having never experienced parental love and it was nice to see her getting some closure by the end of this book.
Reading this made me desperate to rewatch My Fair Lady! I think this series, which will all be retellings of famous movie musicals, is such a fun and creative choice. I'm excited to rewatch them all and read the retelling as they all come out.
"Two months ago, if he'd passed me on the street, he wouldn't have looked twice. Today, he'd come to call." (116).
Set in New York City of 1883, this book follows Keira O'Day who has been raised by her aunt and uncle after being abandoned by her parents as a baby. Raised in poverty, her life is altered drastically when she is spotted on the streets by a wealthy widow who offers to adopt her and present her as a society bride for an English lord, in a desperate bid to lend social prestige to her hotel business. To escape her impoverished life, Keira goes along with this plan and catches the eye of the Duke of Severton, but is heartbroken that keeping her end of the bargain means sacrificing her love for another man and a path that would bring her a much happier life.
This was beautifully done historical fiction that reimagines the My Fair Lady story as a Gilded Age New York City story. Gabrielle Meyer's choice to set the book in Gilded Age New York was an inspired choice! In this book, Keira becomes one of the many American heiresses that were married off to impoverished British aristocracy. The plot seamlessly intertwined with real life historical events taking place during that time period as wealthy New Yorkers competed for social prestige and were willing to do just about anything for entry into the most exclusive social circles. I have a great love for Gilded Age history and the author's knowledge of that time period was evident by how well researched this book was. I so impressed by the meticulous attention to historical detail that gave this book realism and enhanced Keira's love story. For instance, Keira attends her own coming out ball, that mirrors the extravagance of wealthy parties during the Gilded Age: "For party favors, Aunt Maude has chosen gold cigarette cases for the men and diamond necklaces for the women. The food, the champagne, the party favors, flowers, invitations, musicians, and extra staff had cost over fifty thousand dollars" (132).
This story has such a beautiful message of being true to yourself and also finding those who see the real you, regardless of circumstances. Alec meets Keira when she's an impoverished young woman selling silk flowers on the street, yet he is unfailingly kind and supportive of her from day one. I especially liked that he is very reluctant to call her Clara, her newly adopted named. Alec sees and cares for the true Keira and not the polished society image of her.
At the same time, I greatly appreciated the author's portrayal of the Duke of Severton. It would have been very easy to paint him as the villain of the story, solely trying to steal Keira away for her adopted wealth. While he admittedly isn't super friendly and has some alarming ghost stories circling about his adoptive home, he is always honest and upfront with Keira. I thought he was a fascinating figure with an interesting back story and am looking forward to hopefully learning more about him in the next book.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but this book has quite the twist concerning Keira's past! I loved learning in the author's note how this twist was grounded in historical facts. I think Keira has such an emotional hole having never experienced parental love and it was nice to see her getting some closure by the end of this book.
Reading this made me desperate to rewatch My Fair Lady! I think this series, which will all be retellings of famous movie musicals, is such a fun and creative choice. I'm excited to rewatch them all and read the retelling as they all come out.
January 16, 2026
To Love a Lady by Gabrielle Meyer is an exquisite love story. It’s also an excellent history lesson with a touch of mystery and a nod to My Fair Lady. This is a versatile and complex romance with layers and layers of heart and depth. I loved every second of this highly engaging and emotional story, and I was so sad when I turned to the final page. I did not want my time with these characters to end. As with all historical novels written by Meyer, the history lesson in To Love a Lady is so, so good. I learned so much about the Gilded Age reading this book. I love how Meyer utilizes Keira’s perspective to show readers what life was like for the American and British uber-wealthy and glamorous of the 1880s. At first, anything seems better to Keira than wasting away in the poorest slum of New York in 1882. But the more Keira’s life is entwined in the machinations of the upper crust of New York and British Society, the more she, and the reader, realizes how enslaved upper-class people are to money and power and status. Reading this story, I often ruminated to myself how glad I am that I am not rich. I have freedom that wealthy people did not and do not have today. For example, I do not care what others think about me. I got to choose my own spouse — one was not provided who could bring more money or better business interests to my family. Today, I can go anywhere I want and just be me. There is no one to impress and no strict social rules I need to follow in order to count for something. Everything in the upper class of the Gilded Age was purely transactional. People were dollar signs and objects to be traded and nothing more. So sad.
The characters are wonderful. Keira is so well done. And Alec stole my heart from his first appearance. Their journey to love is incredibly tumultuous and sad and painful. Their romantic chemistry is palpable from the beginning, but they are not allowed to act upon it. The rules of the game they are both playing make them off limits to one another. This really, truly hurt my reader’s heart for most of the story. I made a note at the 82% mark: “I have no idea how Meyer is going to get her main characters to a happily-ever-after. She has written them so into a corner I cannot see how they get out!” It made for an edge-of-your-seat kind of read, and I was there for every gloriously heart-wrenching moment. Eventually, Keira and Alec do get out of the corner; it is a magical and perfect moment that had me smiling from ear to ear. What also had me smiling were all the My Fair Lady nods throughout the story. “I Could Have Danced All Night” has been stuck in my head for two days! The coolest thing, though, is that I would not call Meyer’s story a variant. No, To Love a Lady is not a re-telling of My Fair Lady. Rather, it is a completely unique story in its own right. One that I will not soon forget. In fact, if a movie were to be made of Meyer’s story, I would be first in line to buy tickets!
To Love a Lady is a remarkable Historical Romance that will stick with me long after the final page has been read. It is a highly engaging, unputdownable story that I highly recommend. If you’re a fan of Historical Romance, I implore you to purchase a copy ASAP. This is not a story you want to miss!
I purchased a copy of this eBook edition from Amazon on January 5, 2026. I am under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The characters are wonderful. Keira is so well done. And Alec stole my heart from his first appearance. Their journey to love is incredibly tumultuous and sad and painful. Their romantic chemistry is palpable from the beginning, but they are not allowed to act upon it. The rules of the game they are both playing make them off limits to one another. This really, truly hurt my reader’s heart for most of the story. I made a note at the 82% mark: “I have no idea how Meyer is going to get her main characters to a happily-ever-after. She has written them so into a corner I cannot see how they get out!” It made for an edge-of-your-seat kind of read, and I was there for every gloriously heart-wrenching moment. Eventually, Keira and Alec do get out of the corner; it is a magical and perfect moment that had me smiling from ear to ear. What also had me smiling were all the My Fair Lady nods throughout the story. “I Could Have Danced All Night” has been stuck in my head for two days! The coolest thing, though, is that I would not call Meyer’s story a variant. No, To Love a Lady is not a re-telling of My Fair Lady. Rather, it is a completely unique story in its own right. One that I will not soon forget. In fact, if a movie were to be made of Meyer’s story, I would be first in line to buy tickets!
To Love a Lady is a remarkable Historical Romance that will stick with me long after the final page has been read. It is a highly engaging, unputdownable story that I highly recommend. If you’re a fan of Historical Romance, I implore you to purchase a copy ASAP. This is not a story you want to miss!
I purchased a copy of this eBook edition from Amazon on January 5, 2026. I am under no obligation to leave a positive review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 23, 2026
Those of us who enjoy the romance genre, generally know that the couple somehow makes it in the end. That's the whole point! (unless you enjoy love triangles...in which case, you do you, I guess) I just enjoy the process of them learning to love each other and the stakes are if they can resolve their misunderstandings, miscommunications, toxic parents, etc. to have a happily ever after.
With this book, I was legitimately stressed on how this couple was going to get together. There were *hints* from the very beginning, but even then my stress kept mounting as I got closer to the end of the book and I didn't know how Ms. Meyer would get it all worked out. Just know, just like every romance novel before and since, HEA or HFN will happen. You just might gain a few grey hairs in the process (but you'll believe they're absolutely worth it).
Now for the description of the plot: Y'know My Fair Lady where Eliza falls for the horrid Mr. Higgins and you want to slap the man for his coldness towards her? Well, don't worry. Ms. Meyer took all the wonderful things about the story (minus the songs, but trust me, you'll be singing them in your head) and took out the more annoying bits. Imagine the old gentleman who was always kind and treated Eliza as a person from the start, was actually a young handsome man who sees Kiera (our Eliza) as a person and not a project, unlike his aunt. His aunt is Mr. Higgins and she is just as annoying and conniving as Mr. Higgins. Honestly, she might be worse. Not in any big way, but in a million subtle ways. She wants what she wants, and doesn't mind using her own family to get there.
Eliza is set to marry a Duke, any Duke will due, and she is NOT supposed to become enamored with the man who has treated her with dignity and respect throughout the process of becoming someone of 'worth'. Mission unsuccessful. No matter, she must be married to a Duke or she will bankrupt the very person her heart has started to yearn for.
Oh yeah, there is a lot of yearning. If you like 'men who yearn' you get it here. Even though the story is told from first person (Eliza's POV), you can feel his yearning through the pages and into your very soul. Ms. Meyers knows how to write romance, let me tell ya. Sweet, protective, yearning MMCs who make you completely root for them, even when you aren't supposed to.
This book was absolutely 'lovely' (spoken like Eliza from My Fair Lady). I highly, highly recommend it.
I only had one quibble and it was that I felt sorry for George (IYKYK). His little broken heart made me feel so bad for him! It reminded me why I don't like love triangles. It's such a small thing, and just makes the stakes ever larger and harder to resolve!
If you like My Fair Lady and historical romance, this is the story for you!
With this book, I was legitimately stressed on how this couple was going to get together. There were *hints* from the very beginning, but even then my stress kept mounting as I got closer to the end of the book and I didn't know how Ms. Meyer would get it all worked out. Just know, just like every romance novel before and since, HEA or HFN will happen. You just might gain a few grey hairs in the process (but you'll believe they're absolutely worth it).
Now for the description of the plot: Y'know My Fair Lady where Eliza falls for the horrid Mr. Higgins and you want to slap the man for his coldness towards her? Well, don't worry. Ms. Meyer took all the wonderful things about the story (minus the songs, but trust me, you'll be singing them in your head) and took out the more annoying bits. Imagine the old gentleman who was always kind and treated Eliza as a person from the start, was actually a young handsome man who sees Kiera (our Eliza) as a person and not a project, unlike his aunt. His aunt is Mr. Higgins and she is just as annoying and conniving as Mr. Higgins. Honestly, she might be worse. Not in any big way, but in a million subtle ways. She wants what she wants, and doesn't mind using her own family to get there.
Eliza is set to marry a Duke, any Duke will due, and she is NOT supposed to become enamored with the man who has treated her with dignity and respect throughout the process of becoming someone of 'worth'. Mission unsuccessful. No matter, she must be married to a Duke or she will bankrupt the very person her heart has started to yearn for.
Oh yeah, there is a lot of yearning. If you like 'men who yearn' you get it here. Even though the story is told from first person (Eliza's POV), you can feel his yearning through the pages and into your very soul. Ms. Meyers knows how to write romance, let me tell ya. Sweet, protective, yearning MMCs who make you completely root for them, even when you aren't supposed to.
This book was absolutely 'lovely' (spoken like Eliza from My Fair Lady). I highly, highly recommend it.
I only had one quibble and it was that I felt sorry for George (IYKYK). His little broken heart made me feel so bad for him! It reminded me why I don't like love triangles. It's such a small thing, and just makes the stakes ever larger and harder to resolve!
If you like My Fair Lady and historical romance, this is the story for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could have read all night & still have begged for more. All the love for this absolutely amazing, darling Gilded Age twist on My Fair Lady! I’m a huge fan of this beloved musical, so when favorite author Gabrielle Meyer said she was writing a book based on it, I couldn’t wait to read it. It was even more magical than I imagined. Did I hum “I Could Have Danced All Night, Wouldn’t it be Lovely, On the Street Where You Live” & other favorites while reading? Yes, yes I did. But, I was surprised by how uniquely fresh, romantic, & entertaining To Love a Lady was while still containing familiar elements from the musical.
I loved Keira O’Day! After being plucked out of the dangerous tenements of Five Points, she’s thrust into the ultra rich, competitive world of New York High Society when a wealthy widow sees an opportunity to use her to advance her own social standing. From flower girl & seamstress to heiress, Keira exhibits grace, charm, & surprising loyalty when Mrs. Maude Hill offers to adopt her & then marry her off to an English lord in order to save the family’s hotel business & increase Maude’s social prowess. The only person standing in the way is Maude’s nephew Alexander Paxton-Hill.
I adored Alex! He’s smart, kind, & likes Keira for who she is. Though Maude wants to turn her into Clara Day Hill, Alex prefers calling her Keira. He sees the caring, kind, hardworking person she is. He’s supposed to teach her how to flirt, dance, & perform in Society, but each meeting only increases his attraction towards her. I loved every swoon worthy interaction especially their first waltz & that first kiss. *Sigh* When they arrive in England, the story takes an altogether new turn as Keira discovers the identity of her parents & catches the eye of a mysterious Duke.
Alex’s & Keira’s forbidden romance is filled with passionate kisses, & desperate longing. I wasn’t sure how everything would work out since Alex is caught between a rock & a hard place. But, the happily ever after is even better than I predicted & I loved how both Alex & Keira learn the true meaning of love & faith.
It’s a delightful, engaging, entertaining read that fully captures the spirit of My Fair Lady while being its own unique story. Now I can’t wait to read the next book! Highly recommend. I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
I loved Keira O’Day! After being plucked out of the dangerous tenements of Five Points, she’s thrust into the ultra rich, competitive world of New York High Society when a wealthy widow sees an opportunity to use her to advance her own social standing. From flower girl & seamstress to heiress, Keira exhibits grace, charm, & surprising loyalty when Mrs. Maude Hill offers to adopt her & then marry her off to an English lord in order to save the family’s hotel business & increase Maude’s social prowess. The only person standing in the way is Maude’s nephew Alexander Paxton-Hill.
I adored Alex! He’s smart, kind, & likes Keira for who she is. Though Maude wants to turn her into Clara Day Hill, Alex prefers calling her Keira. He sees the caring, kind, hardworking person she is. He’s supposed to teach her how to flirt, dance, & perform in Society, but each meeting only increases his attraction towards her. I loved every swoon worthy interaction especially their first waltz & that first kiss. *Sigh* When they arrive in England, the story takes an altogether new turn as Keira discovers the identity of her parents & catches the eye of a mysterious Duke.
Alex’s & Keira’s forbidden romance is filled with passionate kisses, & desperate longing. I wasn’t sure how everything would work out since Alex is caught between a rock & a hard place. But, the happily ever after is even better than I predicted & I loved how both Alex & Keira learn the true meaning of love & faith.
It’s a delightful, engaging, entertaining read that fully captures the spirit of My Fair Lady while being its own unique story. Now I can’t wait to read the next book! Highly recommend. I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.
January 19, 2026
We have another amazing book by one of my top favorite authors ever!! I've got a lot to say so if you want the short version, here it is: It was incredible. Highly recommend.
Now for the long version:
Yall... I cannot tell you how excited I was when I found out that Gabrielle Meyer was writing a series about musical retellings set in the time of American Dollar Princesses. Favorite author? Favorite musicals? Highly intriguing historical setting? Aspects of faith? YES!! and the first book starting with My Fair Lady? Even more YES! And it delivered!!
I will say that the retelling was quite a bit different than I expected. Not in a bad way. It was simply not what I was expecting when it comes to a MFL retelling. There were MANY references and nods to the play during the entire book that it had me smiling and singing along to the original songs constantly!
What ended up being my favorite thing was actually a specific historically accurate aspect of the story that showed up towards the end. I can’t go into why it was so moving to me because of spoilers but I adored it.
The story overall reminded me a bit of Timeless books 4 and 6. The 4th book because of the FMC and the 6th book because of history stuff. Both of which were cool!
I'm so excited for book 2. I have yet to have ever even watched Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (as a thespian musical lover i am nearly ashamed to admit i didnt even know this musical existed before this series) but i know enough to have caught a FEW of the references to the characters and storyline even in this book! And because I know Sound of Music is book 3, I have a theory that that too may have been referenced a time or two. Regardless, i absolutely love how Gabrielle Meyer has woven these treasured musicals together into the same universe. It feels like she has made an MCU Avengers group of Musicals and I am absolutely here for it.
Last thing to say; this was my 400th read since I started reading books again in 2021. I always do my best to make a milestone book special. And I'm glad that this was able to be the 400th 😊
Now for the long version:
Yall... I cannot tell you how excited I was when I found out that Gabrielle Meyer was writing a series about musical retellings set in the time of American Dollar Princesses. Favorite author? Favorite musicals? Highly intriguing historical setting? Aspects of faith? YES!! and the first book starting with My Fair Lady? Even more YES! And it delivered!!
I will say that the retelling was quite a bit different than I expected. Not in a bad way. It was simply not what I was expecting when it comes to a MFL retelling. There were MANY references and nods to the play during the entire book that it had me smiling and singing along to the original songs constantly!
What ended up being my favorite thing was actually a specific historically accurate aspect of the story that showed up towards the end. I can’t go into why it was so moving to me because of spoilers but I adored it.
The story overall reminded me a bit of Timeless books 4 and 6. The 4th book because of the FMC and the 6th book because of history stuff. Both of which were cool!
I'm so excited for book 2. I have yet to have ever even watched Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (as a thespian musical lover i am nearly ashamed to admit i didnt even know this musical existed before this series) but i know enough to have caught a FEW of the references to the characters and storyline even in this book! And because I know Sound of Music is book 3, I have a theory that that too may have been referenced a time or two. Regardless, i absolutely love how Gabrielle Meyer has woven these treasured musicals together into the same universe. It feels like she has made an MCU Avengers group of Musicals and I am absolutely here for it.
Last thing to say; this was my 400th read since I started reading books again in 2021. I always do my best to make a milestone book special. And I'm glad that this was able to be the 400th 😊
December 30, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Quick Notes:
*Book 1 in a Series
*My Fair Lady
*Forbidden Romance
*Christian Themes
*Historical
My Thoughts:
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
Gabrielle Meyer has become a new favorite author for me this year, so I jumped at the chance to read the first booking her new series. Each book us based on a musical, with My Fair Lady being the inspiration for this one. I've never seen the entirety of the musical, but that didn't impact my enjoyment of this book.
Keira was pretty down on herself because of her poor upbringing, so I liked seeing her feel loved and accepted by the end of the book. The little bits of religion sprinkled throughout the book were very uplifting for Keira and for me as a reader. I couldn't imagine being in her shoes and being torn between following your heart and being loyal to those who provided for you after coming from nothing.
Alec was so kind and loving from the very beginning. I would have liked more moments between him and Keira rather than feeling like their romance was rushed, but I still felt the yearning and affection each time they were able to find a moment to themselves.
Aunt Maude became an unexpected villain in this story, but I knew her desire to be welcomed into high society was very accurate for that time period. I'm glad that Alec and Keira were still able to get a happy ending despite Maude trying to prevent that from happening.
This book laid the foundation for book 2 with the introduction of the two main characters from that one. I'm very eager to read that book after meeting the Duke and getting glimpses into his backstory. I'll also be curious to know if other characters from this story end up featured in the series later!
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Quick Notes:
*Book 1 in a Series
*My Fair Lady
*Forbidden Romance
*Christian Themes
*Historical
My Thoughts:
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
Gabrielle Meyer has become a new favorite author for me this year, so I jumped at the chance to read the first booking her new series. Each book us based on a musical, with My Fair Lady being the inspiration for this one. I've never seen the entirety of the musical, but that didn't impact my enjoyment of this book.
Keira was pretty down on herself because of her poor upbringing, so I liked seeing her feel loved and accepted by the end of the book. The little bits of religion sprinkled throughout the book were very uplifting for Keira and for me as a reader. I couldn't imagine being in her shoes and being torn between following your heart and being loyal to those who provided for you after coming from nothing.
Alec was so kind and loving from the very beginning. I would have liked more moments between him and Keira rather than feeling like their romance was rushed, but I still felt the yearning and affection each time they were able to find a moment to themselves.
Aunt Maude became an unexpected villain in this story, but I knew her desire to be welcomed into high society was very accurate for that time period. I'm glad that Alec and Keira were still able to get a happy ending despite Maude trying to prevent that from happening.
This book laid the foundation for book 2 with the introduction of the two main characters from that one. I'm very eager to read that book after meeting the Duke and getting glimpses into his backstory. I'll also be curious to know if other characters from this story end up featured in the series later!
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