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Brook Street #1
Thief
London, 1822
It was only supposed to be one night. One night to determine once and for all if he truly preferred men. But the last thing Lord Benjamin Parker expected to find in a questionable gambling hall in Cheapside is a gorgeous young man who steals his heart.
It was only supposed to be a job. Cavin Fox has done it many times - select a prime mark, distract him with lust, and leave his pockets empty. Yet when Cavin slips away under the cover of darkness, the only part of Benjamin he leaves untouched is his pockets.
With a taste of his fantasies fulfilled, Benjamin wants more than one night with Cavin. But convincing the elusive young man to give them a chance proves difficult. Cavin lives with a band of thieves in the worst area of London, and he knows there's no place for him in a gentleman's life. Yet Benjamin isn't about to let Cavin - and love - continue to slip away from him.
©2012 Ava March (P)2012 Audible, Inc
It was only supposed to be one night. One night to determine once and for all if he truly preferred men. But the last thing Lord Benjamin Parker expected to find in a questionable gambling hall in Cheapside is a gorgeous young man who steals his heart.
It was only supposed to be a job. Cavin Fox has done it many times - select a prime mark, distract him with lust, and leave his pockets empty. Yet when Cavin slips away under the cover of darkness, the only part of Benjamin he leaves untouched is his pockets.
With a taste of his fantasies fulfilled, Benjamin wants more than one night with Cavin. But convincing the elusive young man to give them a chance proves difficult. Cavin lives with a band of thieves in the worst area of London, and he knows there's no place for him in a gentleman's life. Yet Benjamin isn't about to let Cavin - and love - continue to slip away from him.
©2012 Ava March (P)2012 Audible, Inc
Audiobook
First published March 19, 2012
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1120 people want to read
About the author
Ava March
27 books761 followersAva March is a bestselling author of sexy, emotionally intense M/M historical erotic romances. She loves writing in the Regency time period, where proper decorum is of the utmost importance, but where anything can happen behind closed doors. With over fifteen works to her credit, her books have been finalists in the Rainbow Awards and More Than Magic contest, and deemed ‘must-haves’ for Historical M/M romance by RT Book Reviews readers. Visit her website at www.AvaMarch.com to find out more about her books or to sign-up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
September 30, 2016
Posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Lord Benjamin Parker is tired of well-meaning family members trying to hook him up with a nice lady, especially when he thinks his preference might be for a nice man. Not such an easy undertaking in the homophobic climate of 19th century London, but Ben does manage to find a gambling hell that caters to men of “unnatural persuasion”. It is there where he meets Cavin Fox, a handsome young man and petty thief in search of a well-heeled gentleman to lure to bed and leave him penniless.
After a fun night of gambling, conversation, and sexual discovery, both men get a lot more than they expected. Cavin is aware that he and Ben come from completely different social classes and realizes that even though they enjoyed each other’s company, nothing good could come from a relationship between them. So he waits until Ben is asleep, steals out quietly, leaving Ben’s valuables behind but accidentally takes his coat. When Cavin gets to his seedy home in the rookery of St. Giles, his landlord and employer inquires about the missing coat, so Cavin needs to see Ben again in order to get it back.
Though circumstances continue to force these two men together, Cavin is very secretive about his life and refuses to spend the night with Ben. Ben is frustrated by Cavin’s lack of trust and refusal to accept help of any kind even after he agreed to employ Cavin’s younger brother Sam as a servant. Things come to a head and Cavin finds himself in a position where he can no longer refuse Ben’s offer of assistance. Gradually, Ben learns more about Cavin’s grim life and Cavin learns that his past makes absolutely no difference to Ben.
I liked how the story was written from the perspectives of both men and found them both to be very likable, though not entirely believable at times. Ben has a lot more money than he knows what to do with, but his heart is always in the right place. The difficult life and poverty Cavin endures has not crushed his soul. He is a considerate lover, he cares deeply for Sam, and he wants to mend his thieving ways.
This is a light, sweet, sexy, fairy-tale romance that brought a smile to my face. Though I generally prefer more drama and hardship in my historical novels, I enjoyed Ben’s patience, his calm demeanor, and his non-judgmental acceptance of Cavin. I also enjoyed Cavin’s ability to adapt to a variety of situations, his sense of modesty, and his growth. Both men have a lot to learn from each other and deserve a chance at happiness.
*ARC received from Carina Press through NetGalley.
Lord Benjamin Parker is tired of well-meaning family members trying to hook him up with a nice lady, especially when he thinks his preference might be for a nice man. Not such an easy undertaking in the homophobic climate of 19th century London, but Ben does manage to find a gambling hell that caters to men of “unnatural persuasion”. It is there where he meets Cavin Fox, a handsome young man and petty thief in search of a well-heeled gentleman to lure to bed and leave him penniless.
After a fun night of gambling, conversation, and sexual discovery, both men get a lot more than they expected. Cavin is aware that he and Ben come from completely different social classes and realizes that even though they enjoyed each other’s company, nothing good could come from a relationship between them. So he waits until Ben is asleep, steals out quietly, leaving Ben’s valuables behind but accidentally takes his coat. When Cavin gets to his seedy home in the rookery of St. Giles, his landlord and employer inquires about the missing coat, so Cavin needs to see Ben again in order to get it back.
Though circumstances continue to force these two men together, Cavin is very secretive about his life and refuses to spend the night with Ben. Ben is frustrated by Cavin’s lack of trust and refusal to accept help of any kind even after he agreed to employ Cavin’s younger brother Sam as a servant. Things come to a head and Cavin finds himself in a position where he can no longer refuse Ben’s offer of assistance. Gradually, Ben learns more about Cavin’s grim life and Cavin learns that his past makes absolutely no difference to Ben.
I liked how the story was written from the perspectives of both men and found them both to be very likable, though not entirely believable at times. Ben has a lot more money than he knows what to do with, but his heart is always in the right place. The difficult life and poverty Cavin endures has not crushed his soul. He is a considerate lover, he cares deeply for Sam, and he wants to mend his thieving ways.
This is a light, sweet, sexy, fairy-tale romance that brought a smile to my face. Though I generally prefer more drama and hardship in my historical novels, I enjoyed Ben’s patience, his calm demeanor, and his non-judgmental acceptance of Cavin. I also enjoyed Cavin’s ability to adapt to a variety of situations, his sense of modesty, and his growth. Both men have a lot to learn from each other and deserve a chance at happiness.
*ARC received from Carina Press through NetGalley.
November 7, 2023
“Still don’t know what I did to deserve you, though.”
“You didn’t have to do anything but be yourself.”
Sensual, tender, heartwarming, and graphic. Really enjoying these historical gay romances by Ava March.
I am aware these men would not be treated so well in reality, thank goodness for fiction.
“You didn’t have to do anything but be yourself.”
Sensual, tender, heartwarming, and graphic. Really enjoying these historical gay romances by Ava March.
I am aware these men would not be treated so well in reality, thank goodness for fiction.
September 1, 2016
I'm suuuuuuper into Thief, the first book in the Brook Street series.
I sort of messed this series up and listened to the books out of order... my bad. However, it is actually pretty easy to read each of these stories as stand-alones, so it didn't make much of a difference.
First of all, Charlie Belmont is a fantastic narrator, and I'd listen to him ANY day of the week. He did a very nice job with this narration, both MCs sounding unique and perfect for their characters, as well as great side characters. Fabulous job.
This book is short, but it's a perfect, easy historical listen. It was a hot book, but without the heat of some other Ava March books. That's okay. I loved the heat level that I got, and I was really happy with the story overall. I always love the trope of rich man/poor man, and it was done very well here.
Keep it up, Ava March!
September 12, 2018
Audio - 3.75
story - 4
story - 4
September 12, 2018
I have a few of Ava March’s books on my TBR, but this is the first time I have read something by her and trust me folks it will not be my last. I have a thing for historical romance, especially in M/M. You wonder how a homosexual romance will work in 1822. The author takes a simplistic approach, which really worked for the story.
Lord Benjamin is a man on a mission. He needs one night to figure out if he is attracted to men or he’s going to begin the search for a wife. So he finds himself in a shady part of town in a in a gaming hell hoping to score some action. When he finds himself not responding to any of the males present, he calls his suspicion on his over active imagination. Seems as if he might be on the market for a wife, until his body gets all excited by a beautiful stranger.
Cavin Fox is a thief and he is out looking for prey. When his eyes land on the man in the fancy clothes, Cavin knows what the fancy looking lord is after. With the gaming hell known for its clientele of men looking to hook up with other men. He’s going to provide what he came looking for, and empty his pockets after.
The men first meeting is explosive, and chemistry is just happening all over the place. It comes as no surprise that they find themselves in a motel ready to spend the night in carnal pleasure. Benjamin is experiencing all this for the first time, and it is everything and more he hoped it would be. Cavin is a caring lover, and Ben is hoping something more can from this one night together.
Of course Cavin takes off at lightning speed without emptying Ben’s pockets. He’s cursing himself up and down but he couldn’t hurt the man when he gave him such a special night. A mix-up in clothing has Cavin seeking out Ben sooner than he hoped, but he won’t deny he’s all kinds of happy to see him.
I really enjoyed this one a lot! I liked that the story remained simple and did not offer up too much complication. Because realistically all their time together has to be done in secret without drawing unnecessary attention from anyone. I loved Benjamin’s take-charge attitude. He went out to find if he liked men, he found out and now will live his life accordingly (like a boss).
Also enjoyed that Cavin’s life, as a thief played no over the top role. By over the top, I mean that no villain from his old life tried to make his life hard. That was really refreshing and glad the author didn’t bring in a bad guy. Enjoyed Cavin and Ben together, it was super hot and caused some serious pants losing.
I am so looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
Lord Benjamin is a man on a mission. He needs one night to figure out if he is attracted to men or he’s going to begin the search for a wife. So he finds himself in a shady part of town in a in a gaming hell hoping to score some action. When he finds himself not responding to any of the males present, he calls his suspicion on his over active imagination. Seems as if he might be on the market for a wife, until his body gets all excited by a beautiful stranger.
Cavin Fox is a thief and he is out looking for prey. When his eyes land on the man in the fancy clothes, Cavin knows what the fancy looking lord is after. With the gaming hell known for its clientele of men looking to hook up with other men. He’s going to provide what he came looking for, and empty his pockets after.
The men first meeting is explosive, and chemistry is just happening all over the place. It comes as no surprise that they find themselves in a motel ready to spend the night in carnal pleasure. Benjamin is experiencing all this for the first time, and it is everything and more he hoped it would be. Cavin is a caring lover, and Ben is hoping something more can from this one night together.
Of course Cavin takes off at lightning speed without emptying Ben’s pockets. He’s cursing himself up and down but he couldn’t hurt the man when he gave him such a special night. A mix-up in clothing has Cavin seeking out Ben sooner than he hoped, but he won’t deny he’s all kinds of happy to see him.
I really enjoyed this one a lot! I liked that the story remained simple and did not offer up too much complication. Because realistically all their time together has to be done in secret without drawing unnecessary attention from anyone. I loved Benjamin’s take-charge attitude. He went out to find if he liked men, he found out and now will live his life accordingly (like a boss).
Also enjoyed that Cavin’s life, as a thief played no over the top role. By over the top, I mean that no villain from his old life tried to make his life hard. That was really refreshing and glad the author didn’t bring in a bad guy. Enjoyed Cavin and Ben together, it was super hot and caused some serious pants losing.
I am so looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
September 21, 2016
Written January 10, 2014
4 Stars - Whets the appetite for more - Simply lovely
Book #1
Thief is the first shorter novel in a three parts series, (Brook Street). Regency historicals with new love-couples in each book. I've been listening to this first one - 4:20 hrs narrated in a very nicely way (an extra star to him) by Charlie Belmont.
‘...behind the closed doors of elegant town houses along Brook Street, passion and lust reign as gentlemen dare to risk scandal by falling in love.’
***********************************************
London, 1822
Lord Benjamin Parker need to know what his true lust and feeling really are. Does he prefer to be with men or is it just a whim? Benjamin needs one night to determine once and for all. What he didn't expect is to find is a gorgeous young man who steals his heart.
Cavin Fox has done this act many times, it's only a simple thief job. He select a man in a gambling hall, distract him with need and lust, and leave another wealthy gentlemans pockets empty. But he can't do it this time. Cavin can't resist his own feelings.
...Not quite easy to solve —this is after set 1820 and two gay men from very different social classes— but we can be confident that love conquers all hard obstacles, as always. In a yummy sweet way as well.
***********************************************
I'm actually quite surprised myself because I liked so much about this story. It is certainly not a particularly innovative or groundbreaking romance novella, but so damn adorable sweet and heartwarming.
Do you like hot erotic encounters from past times, just the right number spiffy warm moments between duvets and feather beds, a glimpse of important social issues in your books, a smattering of a dream world tale —...not to forget a cute little brother Sam—, IS this a perfectly enjoyable book.
***********************************************
To sum it all:
An quite short audiobook in the historical M/M genre I dare to recommend. ~ Standing applause to this formidable narration. Well done Ms. March and Mr. Belmont!. ~ I want more from this street. Next up #2 - Fortune Hunter.
I LIKE - Yep, it "charmed" me
4 Stars - Whets the appetite for more - Simply lovely
Book #1
Thief is the first shorter novel in a three parts series, (Brook Street). Regency historicals with new love-couples in each book. I've been listening to this first one - 4:20 hrs narrated in a very nicely way (an extra star to him) by Charlie Belmont.
‘...behind the closed doors of elegant town houses along Brook Street, passion and lust reign as gentlemen dare to risk scandal by falling in love.’
...on Brook Street
***********************************************
London, 1822
Lord Benjamin Parker need to know what his true lust and feeling really are. Does he prefer to be with men or is it just a whim? Benjamin needs one night to determine once and for all. What he didn't expect is to find is a gorgeous young man who steals his heart.
Cavin Fox has done this act many times, it's only a simple thief job. He select a man in a gambling hall, distract him with need and lust, and leave another wealthy gentlemans pockets empty. But he can't do it this time. Cavin can't resist his own feelings.
...Not quite easy to solve —this is after set 1820 and two gay men from very different social classes— but we can be confident that love conquers all hard obstacles, as always. In a yummy sweet way as well.
***********************************************
I'm actually quite surprised myself because I liked so much about this story. It is certainly not a particularly innovative or groundbreaking romance novella, but so damn adorable sweet and heartwarming.
Do you like hot erotic encounters from past times, just the right number spiffy warm moments between duvets and feather beds, a glimpse of important social issues in your books, a smattering of a dream world tale —...not to forget a cute little brother Sam—, IS this a perfectly enjoyable book.
***********************************************
To sum it all:
An quite short audiobook in the historical M/M genre I dare to recommend. ~ Standing applause to this formidable narration. Well done Ms. March and Mr. Belmont!. ~ I want more from this street. Next up #2 - Fortune Hunter.
I LIKE - Yep, it "charmed" me
March 9, 2020
This one was an OK read for me. I wasn't too happy with the ending. While I liked the characters, I didn't like the ending and that they had to still hide their relationship. I wasn't convinced that it would last. That is what I like in my HEAs.
September 21, 2016
***DNF 55%***
This bores me to death. I began this book due to Ava March erotic hot scenes. But this one doesn't inspire me at all, and I don't care for the characters.
This bores me to death. I began this book due to Ava March erotic hot scenes. But this one doesn't inspire me at all, and I don't care for the characters.
December 14, 2013
I disovered Ava March during my personal MM historical challenge back in November '13 -- and I enjoyed that one novella (+ one short) that I read. So I decided to try another one from her.
This one was wonderful -- it was a "Cinderfella with a pinch of Oliver Twist" type of story, with Cavin being a thief from the bad part of London, while Benjamin was a Lord, youngest son of a marquis. The characters were likeable, I loved the chemistry and the sex scenes was sensual.
There was the usual "I'm not good enough for you" trope coming from Cavin, but it never got annoying because Cavin had a very good reason to, especially in this period of era. The solution of how Cavin could stay with Benjamin was satisfactory.
I hoped they would appear again in book #2.
This one was wonderful -- it was a "Cinderfella with a pinch of Oliver Twist" type of story, with Cavin being a thief from the bad part of London, while Benjamin was a Lord, youngest son of a marquis. The characters were likeable, I loved the chemistry and the sex scenes was sensual.
There was the usual "I'm not good enough for you" trope coming from Cavin, but it never got annoying because Cavin had a very good reason to, especially in this period of era. The solution of how Cavin could stay with Benjamin was satisfactory.
I hoped they would appear again in book #2.
July 27, 2025
A howl ripped from his soul as seed shot from his cock, slicking Cavin’s belly.
I think the only time I want to hear howling during sex is with a wolf-shifter or some serious CBT.
The wording in this erotica novella felt a bit too OTT dramatic for me and I couldn't really get into it.
A tongue that tasted of ale and sin, an utterly delicious combination and absolutely perfect.
I'll try a couple more since I keep seeing Ava March mentioned as the go-to for historical erotica.
I think the only time I want to hear howling during sex is with a wolf-shifter or some serious CBT.
The wording in this erotica novella felt a bit too OTT dramatic for me and I couldn't really get into it.
A tongue that tasted of ale and sin, an utterly delicious combination and absolutely perfect.
I'll try a couple more since I keep seeing Ava March mentioned as the go-to for historical erotica.
March 14, 2012
An m/m historical set in the Regency.
A weakish 4 stars, but 4 stars nonetheless. If I could bifurcate my rating, I would give the first half of the story 4.5-5 stars and the second half 3 stars. The set up of the story and the introduction of the characters and their struggles were really wonderfully done, and they engaged me right off the bat. The resolution of the story, while still a good read, didn't make as much of an impression on me as the story did out of the gate. Even so, overall, I found this story to be a very sweet and enjoyable read.
The story, in brief.
Lord Benjamin Parker has finally decided to give himself one night of passion to answer the question that has been burning in his brain - and his body - for years: is he attracted to men? Cavin Fox is a hustler whose objective that night is to find a mark, seduce him, then leave him so sated that he won't notice Cavin's leaving with all of the blunt in his pockets. When these two meet, each gets more than he bargained for.
The class differences aspect is the biggest obstacle and tension point in this story. Cavin lives in a flash house in St. Giles; Lord Benjamin lives in a townhouse on Brook Street in Mayfair. Cavin thinks he has nothing to offer a fine gentleman like Ben. What Cavin doesn't know is Ben couldn't care less what Cavin brings to the table other than Cavin himself. I liked how this conflict was presented and the internal POV from each character. I didn't find the resolution and their ultimate HEA all that fulfilling, but it was fine for what it was and served its purpose.
The characters.
I liked both Ben and Cavin. They had their strengths and weaknesses. I thought they were very sweet together, and the chemistry they had sparkled on the page. Ben's openness to his homosexuality was refreshing, if a tad unbelievable given the Regency period setting. There was so much sweetness in their interactions with each other, and it made me smile when Cavin - rough and hard-living Cavin - couldn't deny Ben any of the physical pleasures Ben wanted to experience with Cavin. Cavin knew it was Ben's first time, and that honor stunned him. I loved that part of it. It was just so sweet.
Romance and sexytimes.
Like I said, this was just really really sweet. The sexytimes are on the erotic side, but they fit the book and Ben's discovery of his sexuality. Overall, the romance and sexytimes were very well done, except my minor quibble with the HEA, which I found a little...unfulfilling. It made sense, I guess, but was both a little too convenient and a little too unbelievable.
Overall.
I really enjoyed this book and the characters. It wasn't angsty or anything; it was a heartwarming story of two men who didn't know they needed each other...but then once they found each other, they found they couldn't stay apart. We get to watch them move heaven and earth to stay together and be "right" for each other when they do find each other. And that, my friends, was very sweet, indeed.
Note: Thank you to Carina Press for providing a copy of this book through NetGalley.
A weakish 4 stars, but 4 stars nonetheless. If I could bifurcate my rating, I would give the first half of the story 4.5-5 stars and the second half 3 stars. The set up of the story and the introduction of the characters and their struggles were really wonderfully done, and they engaged me right off the bat. The resolution of the story, while still a good read, didn't make as much of an impression on me as the story did out of the gate. Even so, overall, I found this story to be a very sweet and enjoyable read.
The story, in brief.
Lord Benjamin Parker has finally decided to give himself one night of passion to answer the question that has been burning in his brain - and his body - for years: is he attracted to men? Cavin Fox is a hustler whose objective that night is to find a mark, seduce him, then leave him so sated that he won't notice Cavin's leaving with all of the blunt in his pockets. When these two meet, each gets more than he bargained for.
The class differences aspect is the biggest obstacle and tension point in this story. Cavin lives in a flash house in St. Giles; Lord Benjamin lives in a townhouse on Brook Street in Mayfair. Cavin thinks he has nothing to offer a fine gentleman like Ben. What Cavin doesn't know is Ben couldn't care less what Cavin brings to the table other than Cavin himself. I liked how this conflict was presented and the internal POV from each character. I didn't find the resolution and their ultimate HEA all that fulfilling, but it was fine for what it was and served its purpose.
The characters.
I liked both Ben and Cavin. They had their strengths and weaknesses. I thought they were very sweet together, and the chemistry they had sparkled on the page. Ben's openness to his homosexuality was refreshing, if a tad unbelievable given the Regency period setting. There was so much sweetness in their interactions with each other, and it made me smile when Cavin - rough and hard-living Cavin - couldn't deny Ben any of the physical pleasures Ben wanted to experience with Cavin. Cavin knew it was Ben's first time, and that honor stunned him. I loved that part of it. It was just so sweet.
Romance and sexytimes.
Like I said, this was just really really sweet. The sexytimes are on the erotic side, but they fit the book and Ben's discovery of his sexuality. Overall, the romance and sexytimes were very well done, except my minor quibble with the HEA, which I found a little...unfulfilling. It made sense, I guess, but was both a little too convenient and a little too unbelievable.
Overall.
I really enjoyed this book and the characters. It wasn't angsty or anything; it was a heartwarming story of two men who didn't know they needed each other...but then once they found each other, they found they couldn't stay apart. We get to watch them move heaven and earth to stay together and be "right" for each other when they do find each other. And that, my friends, was very sweet, indeed.
Note: Thank you to Carina Press for providing a copy of this book through NetGalley.
August 18, 2020
Really good characters, and even though it's not a new story I still enjoyed it. Audio by Charlie Belmont he does a nice job.
May 26, 2012
Quick review:
Cover: I like it
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: HOT!
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: Well written, well told
Characters: Got to love them
Plot: Two blended stories about two guys searching for the same thing.
Page Turner: Yes.
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Cavin
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I’m not much of a historical fiction reader despite I love history. But I took a chance on this story and I don’t regret it. The writing was wonderful and felt authentic in the time period at least to my novice eyes. The story was rich despite its length.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: I like it
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: HOT!
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: Well written, well told
Characters: Got to love them
Plot: Two blended stories about two guys searching for the same thing.
Page Turner: Yes.
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Cavin
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I’m not much of a historical fiction reader despite I love history. But I took a chance on this story and I don’t regret it. The writing was wonderful and felt authentic in the time period at least to my novice eyes. The story was rich despite its length.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
December 29, 2019
**Thank you Secret Santa**
4.5 stars
But I do believe I need to round up on this one. Just loved it!!
4.5 stars
But I do believe I need to round up on this one. Just loved it!!
April 23, 2012
A great short m/m historical romance with some hot steamy parts, but best of all a touching and heartfelt romance.
Ben had never had a male lover before and wants to understand once and for all if he really is attracted to men. In fantasy, yes. In reality? He didn't know. Shortly after meeting at a gambling club frequented by men seeking men, they begin what should have been a one night only affair.
One night together turned into another, but Cavin's secret life as a thief keeps him from returning to Ben again. Ashamed of who he has become for the sake of survival, Cavin decides to put his criminal life behind him but finds it very difficult. Meanwhile, Ben longs for more of Cavin.
I enjoyed this one quite a bit, and it had the right amount of steam for me! It was sensual, steamy and heartfelt. I connected with Ben and Cavin, and was so happy they found each other. Two very likable and deserving guys. Cavin and Ben come from two very different worlds, but together they were very much alike in their desires.
My only quiver comes toward the end, it was a bit of stretch for me, but since this wasn't an m/f historical romance one couldn't expect these two to end with a similar type ending. Still, I enjoyed it and I now see why so many m/m fans LOVE Ava March's books. The lady can write romance!
Ben had never had a male lover before and wants to understand once and for all if he really is attracted to men. In fantasy, yes. In reality? He didn't know. Shortly after meeting at a gambling club frequented by men seeking men, they begin what should have been a one night only affair.
One night together turned into another, but Cavin's secret life as a thief keeps him from returning to Ben again. Ashamed of who he has become for the sake of survival, Cavin decides to put his criminal life behind him but finds it very difficult. Meanwhile, Ben longs for more of Cavin.
I enjoyed this one quite a bit, and it had the right amount of steam for me! It was sensual, steamy and heartfelt. I connected with Ben and Cavin, and was so happy they found each other. Two very likable and deserving guys. Cavin and Ben come from two very different worlds, but together they were very much alike in their desires.
My only quiver comes toward the end, it was a bit of stretch for me, but since this wasn't an m/f historical romance one couldn't expect these two to end with a similar type ending. Still, I enjoyed it and I now see why so many m/m fans LOVE Ava March's books. The lady can write romance!
February 7, 2013
Another case of I had this on my TBR shelf for awhile, finally got to it and of course I want to smack myself because I loved it.
I adore the regency romances and to have MM thrown in? Le Awesome!
Cavin and Benjamin made a great couple, the author gave it great historical realness and it was a plucky little novella where a thief made good. I will definitely continue with the rest of the series.
I adore the regency romances and to have MM thrown in? Le Awesome!
Cavin and Benjamin made a great couple, the author gave it great historical realness and it was a plucky little novella where a thief made good. I will definitely continue with the rest of the series.
July 13, 2013
Oh, I REALLY liked this story! It wasn't at all what I expected. Instead, it was a sweet, sweet story about Benjamin (a wealthy lord looking for his first sexual experience with a man) and Cavin (a lowly thief who hasn't lost all of his honor).
The sex scenes were HOT!
I kinda want to read more of these guys but I see the next book is about 2 other characters that were introduced here. Staring it next!
The sex scenes were HOT!
I kinda want to read more of these guys but I see the next book is about 2 other characters that were introduced here. Staring it next!
April 24, 2013
There are different styles of historical romances - some that use the historical backdrop as a frame for a love story, and others in which the history and setting are an intense and integral part of the plot and characters.
This is one of the former, where a lush and sweet tale of two men finding each other is set in a clear, but not hard-edged, historical background. I enjoyed Cavin in particular, as the former street-kid sometimes whore, turned thief to be more respectable, who finds a man he doesn't want to steal from. Ben is sweet, needy, a bit naive, but such a good guy you have to root for him. This is a nice, indulgent and sexy read.
This is one of the former, where a lush and sweet tale of two men finding each other is set in a clear, but not hard-edged, historical background. I enjoyed Cavin in particular, as the former street-kid sometimes whore, turned thief to be more respectable, who finds a man he doesn't want to steal from. Ben is sweet, needy, a bit naive, but such a good guy you have to root for him. This is a nice, indulgent and sexy read.
March 12, 2021
Sweet and romantic short story about Benjamin, a wealthy young aristocrat and Cavin, a thief. When Benjamin visits a gambling house, where more than card games are played, he does so intending to find out if he is drawn to men as he supposes.
His suspicion is confirmed after a very erotic and fulfilling night with Cavin.
Of course it's complicated and his lover is gone the next morning.
I really enjoyed this very sweet story, but it must also be said that everything is very predictable, and honestly not always quite believable.
Still I had a good time with those two guys and would rate this 3-3.5 stars.
His suspicion is confirmed after a very erotic and fulfilling night with Cavin.
Of course it's complicated and his lover is gone the next morning.
I really enjoyed this very sweet story, but it must also be said that everything is very predictable, and honestly not always quite believable.
Still I had a good time with those two guys and would rate this 3-3.5 stars.
May 8, 2012
4.5 stars. Very good historical m/m romance about a peer who heads to a gambling hall of a certain repute to find out whether, as he suspects, he'd be wasting his time looking for a bride. The man he meets that night proves that, but is ever so mysterious...
March 21, 2012
Lord Benjamin Parker is pretty sure he is gay, but having never been with a man, he wants to test out his suspicion. Rumor has it that Clements gambling hell caters to his sort of persuasion. So he gets up the courage and visits there one night. When he walks in — even though gambling is going on — he can see men who touch each other more intimately and knows he is in the right place. When he sits down to play cards, a very handsome fellow comes to sit next to him. They brush knees under the table and Benjamin is positive he knows what he wants. But the man he brushes knees with is no gentleman.
Cavin Fox is from the bad streets of St. Giles. Having lived a poor life, he was brought in by a man named Hale at a young age. Having learned to steal and pickpocket, Cavin now leads a group of younger men who steal and return the goods to Hale and in return for food and shelter. Hale also made Cavin turn to prostitution until a couple of years ago, when Cavin demanded he stop.
But now Cavin is worried about a young boy named Sam, who he has taken in as a brother. Sam is almost to the age where he fears Hale might make him do the same thing, and Cavin won't stand for it. Problem is they have nowhere else to go. When he meets Benjamin at the gambling hell, his plan is to have sex with him, then steal from him as he sleeps. But after an amazing time together, Cavin can't bring himself to stoop low enough to steal. The next day Cavin realizes he wore Benjamin's coat home by mistake, which gives him another chance to meet Benjamin, and a friendship and romance develops.
I love Ava March books and when I heard she was going to have a new trilogy with Carina Press, I was very excited. Thief is a sweet, pretty straight-forward story about two unlikely guys becoming attracted to each other. Benjamin is a virgin in the sense he has never been with another man, and when Cavin learns that Benjamin trusts him with something this important, it really touches him. Cavin has had a hard life, but he still has a warm heart. He never wants to take advantage of Benjamin and his good fortune in life. Likewise, Benjamin wants to help Cavin by any means necessary. They kind of push and pull each other back and forth until finally Cavin gives in and realizes he can't escape his life without Benjamin's help.
As always, Ava March gives us very emotional, sensual love scenes that really make her books romantic. I really enjoyed the dynamics of these two with one being a titled gentleman and the other a thief. I did expect Hale to be a bigger villain than he ended up being, but I also think the story wraps up nicely. Two more are coming out this spring, and I'm looking forward to them.
Review: B
Cavin Fox is from the bad streets of St. Giles. Having lived a poor life, he was brought in by a man named Hale at a young age. Having learned to steal and pickpocket, Cavin now leads a group of younger men who steal and return the goods to Hale and in return for food and shelter. Hale also made Cavin turn to prostitution until a couple of years ago, when Cavin demanded he stop.
But now Cavin is worried about a young boy named Sam, who he has taken in as a brother. Sam is almost to the age where he fears Hale might make him do the same thing, and Cavin won't stand for it. Problem is they have nowhere else to go. When he meets Benjamin at the gambling hell, his plan is to have sex with him, then steal from him as he sleeps. But after an amazing time together, Cavin can't bring himself to stoop low enough to steal. The next day Cavin realizes he wore Benjamin's coat home by mistake, which gives him another chance to meet Benjamin, and a friendship and romance develops.
I love Ava March books and when I heard she was going to have a new trilogy with Carina Press, I was very excited. Thief is a sweet, pretty straight-forward story about two unlikely guys becoming attracted to each other. Benjamin is a virgin in the sense he has never been with another man, and when Cavin learns that Benjamin trusts him with something this important, it really touches him. Cavin has had a hard life, but he still has a warm heart. He never wants to take advantage of Benjamin and his good fortune in life. Likewise, Benjamin wants to help Cavin by any means necessary. They kind of push and pull each other back and forth until finally Cavin gives in and realizes he can't escape his life without Benjamin's help.
As always, Ava March gives us very emotional, sensual love scenes that really make her books romantic. I really enjoyed the dynamics of these two with one being a titled gentleman and the other a thief. I did expect Hale to be a bigger villain than he ended up being, but I also think the story wraps up nicely. Two more are coming out this spring, and I'm looking forward to them.
Review: B
March 29, 2013
I love historical. I don’t love how the MC’s have to keep their relationship secret but I do love how they will do anything to be together.
Cavin, what a great character. The so called bad boy thief manages to steal Ben’s heart, much to his surprise. (I should mention here he stole my heart too.)*sigh*
Ben, sweet, sweet Ben thinks he may be attracted to men rather than women so before he has to “find a wife” he goes to a gambling club to see if he really is attracted to men and there he happens upon Cavin. Sparks fly! There is so much heat between these two I’m surprised my Kindle didn’t catch fire.
I’m not a big fan of the insta-love or insta-lust we read about so much in M/M Romance but I loved these guys, enough that I let it go right out the window! If I looked really closely at this story I bet I would find little things that I’m not fond of normally but this story had that something that got me involved with the MC’s right away and I just didn’t care. I wanted them happy and together so badly.
This is a very simple story, about how a poor boy (Cavin) who’s a thief meets a rich boy (Ben) that’s trying to figure out his life. Our heart stopping poor boy is looking for a way out of the life he’s been living after he meets our sweet rich boy who wants nothing but to have the heart stopping poor boy in his life forever. Oh I forgot to mention Cavin has this kid he looks out for named Sam. Sam is like a little brother to him and he wants to get Sam out of the thieving business and away from the man who controls both of them, a despicable man that now wants to use 13 year old Sam to service men.
Thief made me smile and cry I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
I recommend this to all the romantics out there.
Cavin, what a great character. The so called bad boy thief manages to steal Ben’s heart, much to his surprise. (I should mention here he stole my heart too.)*sigh*
Ben, sweet, sweet Ben thinks he may be attracted to men rather than women so before he has to “find a wife” he goes to a gambling club to see if he really is attracted to men and there he happens upon Cavin. Sparks fly! There is so much heat between these two I’m surprised my Kindle didn’t catch fire.
I’m not a big fan of the insta-love or insta-lust we read about so much in M/M Romance but I loved these guys, enough that I let it go right out the window! If I looked really closely at this story I bet I would find little things that I’m not fond of normally but this story had that something that got me involved with the MC’s right away and I just didn’t care. I wanted them happy and together so badly.
This is a very simple story, about how a poor boy (Cavin) who’s a thief meets a rich boy (Ben) that’s trying to figure out his life. Our heart stopping poor boy is looking for a way out of the life he’s been living after he meets our sweet rich boy who wants nothing but to have the heart stopping poor boy in his life forever. Oh I forgot to mention Cavin has this kid he looks out for named Sam. Sam is like a little brother to him and he wants to get Sam out of the thieving business and away from the man who controls both of them, a despicable man that now wants to use 13 year old Sam to service men.
Thief made me smile and cry I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
I recommend this to all the romantics out there.
August 19, 2012
There is just something special about being transported back to a an era that is always so diverse and colorful. 1820's London is a gem of contrasting worlds. The author does a great job in showing the vast differences in the social divide of that time. From the pristine and pretentious of London's Mayfair and the Ton, to the swills and poverty of St Giles.
Benjamin is the brother of a Marquee, privileged but not pretentious. So when Lord Benjamin decides to head for one of the Hells for those of 'an unnatural persuasion' he is determined to decide his sexuality once and for all and accept his fate come what may.
Cavin is from the a thief, pick pocket and hustler who does what he has to, to survive. His story reminded me of Oliver Twist, but with a more x rated theme, of course. Cavin answers to the Machiavellian Hale and has done since he was nine.
So when these two come together for the first time, the attraction is static. The lust is unbridled and intensely voracious. They share an erotic night of passion that seals their fate! Benjamin has no doubts as to what his preferences are after finally experiencing his forbidden fantasy, and absolutely no doubt as to who he wants either.
Cavin has never felt such an intense, all consuming need that he feels for Benjamin. It tugs at his very core and has him questioning his own morals.
This was a wonderful book. Probably a bit too short for my liking, but then if a books too short you know it's a good one. Right?
It is sexually explicit but done well. The characters are engaging, well constructed and very likable.
Thank you to the publisher who sent this to me via netgalley.
Benjamin is the brother of a Marquee, privileged but not pretentious. So when Lord Benjamin decides to head for one of the Hells for those of 'an unnatural persuasion' he is determined to decide his sexuality once and for all and accept his fate come what may.
Cavin is from the a thief, pick pocket and hustler who does what he has to, to survive. His story reminded me of Oliver Twist, but with a more x rated theme, of course. Cavin answers to the Machiavellian Hale and has done since he was nine.
So when these two come together for the first time, the attraction is static. The lust is unbridled and intensely voracious. They share an erotic night of passion that seals their fate! Benjamin has no doubts as to what his preferences are after finally experiencing his forbidden fantasy, and absolutely no doubt as to who he wants either.
Cavin has never felt such an intense, all consuming need that he feels for Benjamin. It tugs at his very core and has him questioning his own morals.
This was a wonderful book. Probably a bit too short for my liking, but then if a books too short you know it's a good one. Right?
It is sexually explicit but done well. The characters are engaging, well constructed and very likable.
Thank you to the publisher who sent this to me via netgalley.
April 2, 2018
I liked this! I have read this author before, this series however, is new to me. I will be continuing. Benjamin was very sweet and kind. I liked him so much. Kind of wore his heart on his sleeve, which I find adorable-he was a bit naive, of course. And perhaps a bit too...idealistic, but I liked that about him too. This was kinda insta-everything, but it didn't really bother me here. I was glad that Sam spoke up, even though he didn't reveal any of the secrets that Calvin wouldn't want Ben to know, it helped move things along-since Calvin was so stubborn. I did understand Calvin's perspective, but he was still super stubborn.
January 3, 2013
This was another great installment of the Brook Street series. This was different to the first one in some ways, but not in others. I loved Benjamin and Cavin they made a great couple. I even loved the way they fell in love at first sight. The two main characters were so different, but I loved that about them.
By the time I had finished reading this I was smiling to myself. The whole plot had me very happy. Another great book in the series. :)
By the time I had finished reading this I was smiling to myself. The whole plot had me very happy. Another great book in the series. :)
January 5, 2025
This one is a very, extremely fairytale-ish story for that particular time, but it has 2 endearing main characters and a rags-to-riches component that I personally love, so it's a 3.5⭐ for me.
🔵 A lord/a pickpocketer (former prostitute)
🟣 Age gap 21/25
🟢 A sweet love story
🌶️ Smut is good, descriptive; virgin MMC; rimming, oral, penetrative; both vers
Cavin is a pickpocketer that lives with his former pimp, so to speak - the guy has a house full of boys who steal and sell their bodies for him, all orphans who're completely alone in the world.
On one such occasion, Cavin goes to a brothel to find a man to rob, but he meets Benjamin, a young, kind lord who wants to make sure for certain he's attracted to men.
"It was as if his soul sighed in relief, in gratitude, in unending thanks. Kissing Cavin felt so right. A part of him whispered that it wasn’t only that Cavin was a man. It was Cavin himself who felt so very right."
Benjamin likes Cavin immediately, so they go to a hotel, have an amazing night and so begin a series of weeks where they'll meet, have sex, but then Cavin will run off again and again and again.
Benjamin was too good, seriously, he wasn't even aware of the time he lived in; he was accepting Cavin into his house when Cavin was more than obviously from a much lower class and a bad part of town, so that was interesting? Inviting him in as a guest, having him sit at his formal table? Wow.
He was also quite openly having sex with him, in his house, out loud, so he wasn't even remotely worried that someone might figure it out.
Even more, he was baffled about Cavin's worries of how they could live together and make this relationship even happen.
Yes, it was quite a delusional story, but an endearing one, it took me a while to warm up to the main characters, but about half way in you're already invested, if for nothing more, then for Cavin to stop suffering and start waking up in Benjamin's warm bed.
Hale and his gang of boys were an interesting addition, but the whole thing didn't get any kind of epilogue. Cavin just ran from there and that was it. Cavin's past also seems very troubled, but again, not much was said about it.
The epilogue takes you to a month after Cavin's been living in Benjamin's house and has a bit of an abrupt ending. It was sweet and very much like living in a regency fairytale, but it's a nice, short novella and much better than the previous installment.
This author doesn't really have the most appealing writing style for me, the books try to reach that regency era magic, but somehow fail, I think. Yeah, sure, the smut is there, but it's practically the only thing keeping the books afloat.
🔵 A lord/a pickpocketer (former prostitute)
🟣 Age gap 21/25
🟢 A sweet love story
🌶️ Smut is good, descriptive; virgin MMC; rimming, oral, penetrative; both vers
Cavin is a pickpocketer that lives with his former pimp, so to speak - the guy has a house full of boys who steal and sell their bodies for him, all orphans who're completely alone in the world.
On one such occasion, Cavin goes to a brothel to find a man to rob, but he meets Benjamin, a young, kind lord who wants to make sure for certain he's attracted to men.
"It was as if his soul sighed in relief, in gratitude, in unending thanks. Kissing Cavin felt so right. A part of him whispered that it wasn’t only that Cavin was a man. It was Cavin himself who felt so very right."
Benjamin likes Cavin immediately, so they go to a hotel, have an amazing night and so begin a series of weeks where they'll meet, have sex, but then Cavin will run off again and again and again.
Benjamin was too good, seriously, he wasn't even aware of the time he lived in; he was accepting Cavin into his house when Cavin was more than obviously from a much lower class and a bad part of town, so that was interesting? Inviting him in as a guest, having him sit at his formal table? Wow.
He was also quite openly having sex with him, in his house, out loud, so he wasn't even remotely worried that someone might figure it out.
Even more, he was baffled about Cavin's worries of how they could live together and make this relationship even happen.
Yes, it was quite a delusional story, but an endearing one, it took me a while to warm up to the main characters, but about half way in you're already invested, if for nothing more, then for Cavin to stop suffering and start waking up in Benjamin's warm bed.
Hale and his gang of boys were an interesting addition, but the whole thing didn't get any kind of epilogue. Cavin just ran from there and that was it. Cavin's past also seems very troubled, but again, not much was said about it.
The epilogue takes you to a month after Cavin's been living in Benjamin's house and has a bit of an abrupt ending. It was sweet and very much like living in a regency fairytale, but it's a nice, short novella and much better than the previous installment.
This author doesn't really have the most appealing writing style for me, the books try to reach that regency era magic, but somehow fail, I think. Yeah, sure, the smut is there, but it's practically the only thing keeping the books afloat.
December 17, 2018
This was a solid 4 star read, I really enjoyed it.
Cavin was on the streets until he was 9 and a man named Hale took him in...but only because he wanted him to be a theif for him - and occasional seducer of men to get their money from them while they're distracted by lust.
Benjamin Parker is a Lord living in London who has felt attraction towards men but has always been too afraid to be with a man to see if truly preferred men or not. But he finally gets enough courage to try it at a gambling hell place that is known for men being able to find men to be with, and it is there that Benjamin meets Cavin.
Cavin approaches Benjamin to try and seduce him to take his money, but their encounter turns out being so much more than just sex (and some thieving.) In the end Cavin can't steal from Ben after what they just shared and how kind Ben is, the connection he felt, and he leaves without taking a penny from Ben.
But when he accidentally takes Ben's vest instead of his own, he goes back to Ben to give exchange them, and they can't resist each other.
And when a 13 year old boy, Sam, in the house Cavin lives in, is about to be used by Hale for sexual favors to men, Cavin gets him out of there to stop that from happening, and the only person he can think of to help Sam is Ben.
Ben also wants to help Cavin, but Cavin's pride prevents it, until something happens that pushes them together once again.
But Ben doesn't give up on Cavin, and Cavin so obviously wants to give into Ben, who he has steadily been falling for.
I very much enjoyed this story, I thought Cavin and Ben had great chemistry and the story was interesting, and the happy ending was well earned and made sense.
Thumbs up from me, I very much enjoyed this! Definitely recommend. This author is one I've come to really love (which is why I don't understand why most of her works have such low ratings. I think they're pretty damn good.)
Cavin was on the streets until he was 9 and a man named Hale took him in...but only because he wanted him to be a theif for him - and occasional seducer of men to get their money from them while they're distracted by lust.
Benjamin Parker is a Lord living in London who has felt attraction towards men but has always been too afraid to be with a man to see if truly preferred men or not. But he finally gets enough courage to try it at a gambling hell place that is known for men being able to find men to be with, and it is there that Benjamin meets Cavin.
Cavin approaches Benjamin to try and seduce him to take his money, but their encounter turns out being so much more than just sex (and some thieving.) In the end Cavin can't steal from Ben after what they just shared and how kind Ben is, the connection he felt, and he leaves without taking a penny from Ben.
But when he accidentally takes Ben's vest instead of his own, he goes back to Ben to give exchange them, and they can't resist each other.
And when a 13 year old boy, Sam, in the house Cavin lives in, is about to be used by Hale for sexual favors to men, Cavin gets him out of there to stop that from happening, and the only person he can think of to help Sam is Ben.
Ben also wants to help Cavin, but Cavin's pride prevents it, until something happens that pushes them together once again.
But Ben doesn't give up on Cavin, and Cavin so obviously wants to give into Ben, who he has steadily been falling for.
I very much enjoyed this story, I thought Cavin and Ben had great chemistry and the story was interesting, and the happy ending was well earned and made sense.
Thumbs up from me, I very much enjoyed this! Definitely recommend. This author is one I've come to really love (which is why I don't understand why most of her works have such low ratings. I think they're pretty damn good.)
July 26, 2017
This was a light, sweet read. It's not the book's fault I'm currently hooked on KJ Charles's books and keep comparing everything to them. But in comparison, this was just. Fluff.
I liked both heroes, they were sweet and interesting, but I didn't really feel they had any depth. And one of them was a thief!
I liked that Benjamin had the courage to go to a gaming hell rumored to cater to "unnatural interests" to find out if he was really interested in men before starting yet another season. I liked that he resolved not to condemn a woman to a loveless marriage and insisted not to lead anyone one. He was kind, and nice, and good.
Cavin was pretty interesting as well. Taken in by a Fagin who made his boys break in and steal, distract marks by seducing them only to rob them, or whore themselves out, he meets Benjamin while on an assignment to rob him. I liked that he fell so hard and resolved to change, not to be worthy of Ben, but because he sees how empty his life has become.
One big ICK that bothered me: Benjamin at some point says that he has "tupped a few maids- poor things" because that was what was expected of him. I sincerely hope those poor maids were not forced, paid for it, and/or dismissed, but honestly, the comment felt flippant and disrespectful to me. It was just one sentence, but still, I didn't like that.
Otherwise, this was a nice, comfortable read.
I liked both heroes, they were sweet and interesting, but I didn't really feel they had any depth. And one of them was a thief!
I liked that Benjamin had the courage to go to a gaming hell rumored to cater to "unnatural interests" to find out if he was really interested in men before starting yet another season. I liked that he resolved not to condemn a woman to a loveless marriage and insisted not to lead anyone one. He was kind, and nice, and good.
Cavin was pretty interesting as well. Taken in by a Fagin who made his boys break in and steal, distract marks by seducing them only to rob them, or whore themselves out, he meets Benjamin while on an assignment to rob him. I liked that he fell so hard and resolved to change, not to be worthy of Ben, but because he sees how empty his life has become.
One big ICK that bothered me: Benjamin at some point says that he has "tupped a few maids- poor things" because that was what was expected of him. I sincerely hope those poor maids were not forced, paid for it, and/or dismissed, but honestly, the comment felt flippant and disrespectful to me. It was just one sentence, but still, I didn't like that.
Otherwise, this was a nice, comfortable read.
July 6, 2022
3.5
A bit cliche, but still pretty entertaining. Would’ve been better without the insta-love, though.
A bit cliche, but still pretty entertaining. Would’ve been better without the insta-love, though.
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