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Gambling on Love #1
All In with the Duke
London, 1822
Max Arrington, the Duke of Pelham, vows to never again let a handsome face blind him to a man's true intentions. But ten months of celibacy and lonely nights drive him to a decadent brothel, where a beautiful young man arouses his illicit passions as never before.
Tristan Walsh has grown tired of being used for men's pleasure. But his latest client is different: commanding yet generous, Max makes him feel cared for as well as wanted. Yet Tristan knows he'll never have the choice to leave the brothel and submit only to Max.
So when Max invites him to be his guest at his country estate, Tristan eagerly agrees to his terms—days to do as he pleases while Max tends to the dukedom, and nights spent together in wicked play. But when the "business arrangement" begins to deepen into something more, Tristan must face the fact that he has no true place in Max's life—or in Max's guarded heart…
81,000 words
Max Arrington, the Duke of Pelham, vows to never again let a handsome face blind him to a man's true intentions. But ten months of celibacy and lonely nights drive him to a decadent brothel, where a beautiful young man arouses his illicit passions as never before.
Tristan Walsh has grown tired of being used for men's pleasure. But his latest client is different: commanding yet generous, Max makes him feel cared for as well as wanted. Yet Tristan knows he'll never have the choice to leave the brothel and submit only to Max.
So when Max invites him to be his guest at his country estate, Tristan eagerly agrees to his terms—days to do as he pleases while Max tends to the dukedom, and nights spent together in wicked play. But when the "business arrangement" begins to deepen into something more, Tristan must face the fact that he has no true place in Max's life—or in Max's guarded heart…
81,000 words
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2013
48 people are currently reading
1418 people want to read
About the author
Ava March
27 books760 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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Blog: www.avamarch.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/avamarchbooks/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ava_march
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/avamarch/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
September 21, 2014
Awesome price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US!! 9/20/13!! http://www.amazon.com/All-Duke-Gambli...
**4.5 stars**
I am the first to say that I'm not a historical lover, especially with historical M/M. Often, they are either depressing, unbelievable, or cheesy, in my opinion. This one, however, was fabulous. I think Ava March balanced plot with sexiness, and came out with an excellent story.
This is your classic prostitute/rich man story, but done really, really well. Max is a Duke that has been burned by a lover in the past, and Tristan is a young prostitute that has resigned himself of a life in servitude in order to pay off his debts. The chemistry between these two guys... wow... scorching hot. These are some of the best sex scenes that I have read in a while. Just hot hot hot Regency-style, old-fashioned dirty talk with some light kink on the side. However, this book manages never to delve into the realm of porn-without-plot. Though this is a very sex-focused book (as prostitute stories tend to be), it still has an emotional intensity and honesty that kept me reading all day long.
Though I'm not sure it felt 100% authentic, this story re-defined what a historical romance could be for me. I can't wait to find out who the next book in the series is focused on.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
**4.5 stars**
I am the first to say that I'm not a historical lover, especially with historical M/M. Often, they are either depressing, unbelievable, or cheesy, in my opinion. This one, however, was fabulous. I think Ava March balanced plot with sexiness, and came out with an excellent story.
This is your classic prostitute/rich man story, but done really, really well. Max is a Duke that has been burned by a lover in the past, and Tristan is a young prostitute that has resigned himself of a life in servitude in order to pay off his debts. The chemistry between these two guys... wow... scorching hot. These are some of the best sex scenes that I have read in a while. Just hot hot hot Regency-style, old-fashioned dirty talk with some light kink on the side. However, this book manages never to delve into the realm of porn-without-plot. Though this is a very sex-focused book (as prostitute stories tend to be), it still has an emotional intensity and honesty that kept me reading all day long.
Though I'm not sure it felt 100% authentic, this story re-defined what a historical romance could be for me. I can't wait to find out who the next book in the series is focused on.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
January 29, 2015
I'm sure this book wasn't entirely realistic, but I. Don't. Care. Because it was steamy, smexy, sweet, and oh god...did I mention smexy?
Max, jaded, serious, jilted by the one man he trusted and let into his home, goes seeking carnal pleasures at a high-end whore house in 1822 London. But he finds more than he's looking for. Tristan, working to pay off debts, unwanted by his country farm family, seeking pleasure in fancy clothes, is a lost soul. The men collide in a moment of passion that goes way beyond the payment left on the table.
Let me be clear that rent-boy stories are definitely not my latte. There's nothing empowering about selling your body. But sometimes your body is the only thing you have left.
Tristan is lost but not broken. Max's hard exterior is but a shell. The two men are good for each other, and the lovin' between then is intense. (There are some BDSM Lite scenes; that usually isn't my thing either, but, my, the leather and handcuffs in this one....yum). Tristan gets under Max's skin, and even as Tristan realizes he's falling for Max, he knows he doesn't want to be a kept man. He wants more than Max's body; he wants his heart.
In Regency England, they can't be an open couple, but can they find a way to overcome the vast difference in their social standings? Maybe the solution wasn't truly believable, but at least there was a solution, instead of a "who cares, love conquers all."
There could have been more development of secondary characters (e.g., Morgan, Max's driver/guard; the people in Max's country town, etc.) and perhaps a more thorough steeping in the time/place, but the focus was the two MCs (the book is told in their alternating POVs), and both were fully fleshed and three-dimensional.
Forget Jane Austen; throw it in with the duke.
Max, jaded, serious, jilted by the one man he trusted and let into his home, goes seeking carnal pleasures at a high-end whore house in 1822 London. But he finds more than he's looking for. Tristan, working to pay off debts, unwanted by his country farm family, seeking pleasure in fancy clothes, is a lost soul. The men collide in a moment of passion that goes way beyond the payment left on the table.
Let me be clear that rent-boy stories are definitely not my latte. There's nothing empowering about selling your body. But sometimes your body is the only thing you have left.
Tristan is lost but not broken. Max's hard exterior is but a shell. The two men are good for each other, and the lovin' between then is intense. (There are some BDSM Lite scenes; that usually isn't my thing either, but, my, the leather and handcuffs in this one....yum). Tristan gets under Max's skin, and even as Tristan realizes he's falling for Max, he knows he doesn't want to be a kept man. He wants more than Max's body; he wants his heart.
In Regency England, they can't be an open couple, but can they find a way to overcome the vast difference in their social standings? Maybe the solution wasn't truly believable, but at least there was a solution, instead of a "who cares, love conquers all."
There could have been more development of secondary characters (e.g., Morgan, Max's driver/guard; the people in Max's country town, etc.) and perhaps a more thorough steeping in the time/place, but the focus was the two MCs (the book is told in their alternating POVs), and both were fully fleshed and three-dimensional.
Forget Jane Austen; throw it in with the duke.
July 25, 2021
4 "unexpectedly delightful" stars !!!
2017 Guilty Pleasure Read Award
Gay Erotic Regency Romance. How many sub-genres do I have no idea about ?
This was way beyond what I expected in terms of storyline, characterization, passionate sex and sweet romance.
1822 is the time period in London and the Duke of Pelham has had his heart broken from his first true love. He is three and twenty years and is finding managing his dukedom without the tender touch of another man hard to bare. He cannot afford to be caught by his royal peers to liking men but he can also not live life without sweet romance and sultry sex. Max hires the services of Tristan who is half noble and half commoner but due to difficult circumstances becomes a rent-boy. The story unfolds from there as they fall madly in love !!
Ms. March is a very skilled writer and I hope that she moves to gay literary romance as that is a genre that I think she could really excel at. She understands both male emotion and gay sexuality and writes in such a passionate way that I moved through this book with anticipation and yes, dare I say it, a fair amount of breathlessness (not because of asthma folks !!)
When a romance novel leaves you both aroused and emotionally spent...then the author has achieved a remarkable feat !
Just lovely Ms. March and I look forward to reading the next installment in this series.
2017 Guilty Pleasure Read Award
Gay Erotic Regency Romance. How many sub-genres do I have no idea about ?
This was way beyond what I expected in terms of storyline, characterization, passionate sex and sweet romance.
1822 is the time period in London and the Duke of Pelham has had his heart broken from his first true love. He is three and twenty years and is finding managing his dukedom without the tender touch of another man hard to bare. He cannot afford to be caught by his royal peers to liking men but he can also not live life without sweet romance and sultry sex. Max hires the services of Tristan who is half noble and half commoner but due to difficult circumstances becomes a rent-boy. The story unfolds from there as they fall madly in love !!
Ms. March is a very skilled writer and I hope that she moves to gay literary romance as that is a genre that I think she could really excel at. She understands both male emotion and gay sexuality and writes in such a passionate way that I moved through this book with anticipation and yes, dare I say it, a fair amount of breathlessness (not because of asthma folks !!)
When a romance novel leaves you both aroused and emotionally spent...then the author has achieved a remarkable feat !
Just lovely Ms. March and I look forward to reading the next installment in this series.
October 17, 2023
Gay historical romance
Lite bdsm
Prostitution/kept man
Beautiful intimacy
I’m not exactly sure what the solution would have been for gay men in Regency England. Probably not a lot of hea, and that hurts to think about.
I like how this book ended, but it felt a little thin compared to the depth throughout the rest of the story.
Lite bdsm
Prostitution/kept man
Beautiful intimacy
I’m not exactly sure what the solution would have been for gay men in Regency England. Probably not a lot of hea, and that hurts to think about.
I like how this book ended, but it felt a little thin compared to the depth throughout the rest of the story.
June 11, 2017
Second read June, 2017. Loved it again! Highly recommended.
ORIGINAL REVIEW
I am just NOT a fan of historical gay romance. At all! And that is probably because there is such a teeny, tiny chance of a HEA for the heroes in the story. There was no such thing as equality for ANYONE other than white, heterosexual men 100+ years ago. It's just too darn depressing to read about. But my GoodRead friends were singing All in with the Duke's praises SUPER loud and I just had to read and see what all the fuss was about. And I'm so glad I did because Ava March gave us a glorious HEA that was incredibly plausible and left me with a crazy, stupid grin on my face, along with a few happy tears.
If you normally avoid historical, gay romance, don't let this one scare you off. If you like wickedly hot sex between consenting adult males, slow, sizzling sexual tension, watching two men fall in love, a wonderful groveling session that is totally deserved and a HEA that includes birds singing and children dancing, I can HIGHLY RECOMMEND All in with the Duke. Imagine that! A realistic gay historical HEA that isn't a fairy tale! How refreshing.
ORIGINAL REVIEW
I am just NOT a fan of historical gay romance. At all! And that is probably because there is such a teeny, tiny chance of a HEA for the heroes in the story. There was no such thing as equality for ANYONE other than white, heterosexual men 100+ years ago. It's just too darn depressing to read about. But my GoodRead friends were singing All in with the Duke's praises SUPER loud and I just had to read and see what all the fuss was about. And I'm so glad I did because Ava March gave us a glorious HEA that was incredibly plausible and left me with a crazy, stupid grin on my face, along with a few happy tears.
If you normally avoid historical, gay romance, don't let this one scare you off. If you like wickedly hot sex between consenting adult males, slow, sizzling sexual tension, watching two men fall in love, a wonderful groveling session that is totally deserved and a HEA that includes birds singing and children dancing, I can HIGHLY RECOMMEND All in with the Duke. Imagine that! A realistic gay historical HEA that isn't a fairy tale! How refreshing.
June 21, 2014
Mark this down....I actually read and liked a historical romance. A MM historical romance at that.
Now, with that being said I stand by the fact that it's not my cuppa.
Plackets.
Buggered.
Bedchamber.
Haberdash.
Whist.
The lingo threw me for a loop and the fact that they went everywhere by horse and carriage and, heaven forbid, didn't have cell phones.
But if I look at the underlying story I rather enjoyed it. I liked both of the MCs and thought they were great together. And....it was, as promised SMOKING HOT!
Max is a Duke. The story begins with him getting dumped by Jonathan, who he thought he was in love with.
Max was hurt by the fallout of the relationship and hasn't been with anyone else. While in London, a friend convinces Max to visit a brothel, where he spends an evening with Tristan.
Tristan finds himself employed at the brothel after he couldn't pay a gambling debt. When things get out of hand with a client, Max jumps to Tristan's rescue and makes him in offer he can't refuse.
Tristan and Max spend the following months together. But it's not always in the way that Tristan wishes. Max works long hours and it's only at night that it seems Max has time for Tristan.
Max made it clear from the beginning what he wanted from Tristan. And while Tristan agreed over time his feelings for Max change.
Tristan forces Max to take a good look at his life. About what he's willing to give up and what he wants in the future.
I thought the underlying story was really sweet. It was pretty low angst. It had plenty of steam. I'd definitely recommend...even for those non-historical lovers out there like me!
January 10, 2015
4 1/2 Stars - nice and tender with an interesting love plot - this one made me happy and satisfied.
A beautifully romantic and wonderfully nicely told story about a young mighty Duke in the 1820's who finds love in a blond handsome man from a completely different life situation. I am pleased and enjoyed.
Final and full review November 27, 2013
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
All in with the Duke is my very first (full-length) historical romance in classic style (England, nobility, estates, etc.) about two men and their love story.
London 1822...
Max Arrington, the Duke of Pelham, was ten months ago betrayed and has since lived with anger, crushed bitter heart and in celibacy. He can no longer deny his need and his desire for another mans body and during a visit to London advises an acquaintance a place, a famous better brothel, for wealthy men. There he meet a beautiful young blond man who arouses his lust and passions as never before.
Tristan Walsh has grown tired of being sold and used in the brothel so when Max a few days later save Tristan from a cruel and rough client and later invites him to be Max guest at his country estate, Tristan agrees to his terms. Tristan just has to spend the nights in Max's bed and the good looking Duke is so far a very gentle lover so Tristan is glad to agree and follow Max.
What was very nice to experience was that this was broadly similar to a conventional historical m/f romance. Everything may not be fully credible (in which romance is it?), but not unbelievable and impossible either in the 1820's.
Max is a very wealthy and powerful and hard working young man. He's one of the finer noble titles in the old aristocratic kingdom of England. Max, or the Duke, basically can arrange things as he wants them. Tristan on the other side, is a man of the people. A man from a peasant family on the countryside. He came as a very young lad to the big city to seek happiness and a new life. Tristan is handsome, well dressed, well-mannered and can bring himselves among nice people. His mother was a gentleman's daughter and that fact makes him accepted as a friend to the Duke, by the people around Max estate.
...So both the story itself, the very hot love making, the grand love story and the end feels credible and well thought out overall. Moreover, both the characters are interesting and, after a while, so gracious men. ..and sexy, horny and amazing beautiful together!
I really enjoyed All in with the Duke. It was both sentimental, romantic, hot and dramatic. We were not treated with quick insta love - as a good romance should be.. for me. Here are two men with great emotions and strong feelings but it doesn't get too melodramatic as it easily can become. The social class differences matter and wasn't dissolved "easy as pie". The men had to really fight and struggle for a fine and dignified joint agreement. A little excerpt at the end maybe. But at the same time that made the final scene as much better.
...and a wonderful cute epilogue to enjoy as an added plus.
Two men's lives change radically, both have to give and take... just as it must be in a durable relationship. I still think Max was the one who made the biggest change.
Surprises, several twists, very romantic and grand love in the end... as a historical should be. I just want more. ~ It will definitely be more books by Ava March in the future. Do you like historical romances, and additionally with some hot male love sometimes - then I can recommend this one.
I LIKE - want more yummy HR with manloving..
A beautifully romantic and wonderfully nicely told story about a young mighty Duke in the 1820's who finds love in a blond handsome man from a completely different life situation. I am pleased and enjoyed.
Final and full review November 27, 2013
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
All in with the Duke is my very first (full-length) historical romance in classic style (England, nobility, estates, etc.) about two men and their love story.
London 1822...
Max Arrington, the Duke of Pelham, was ten months ago betrayed and has since lived with anger, crushed bitter heart and in celibacy. He can no longer deny his need and his desire for another mans body and during a visit to London advises an acquaintance a place, a famous better brothel, for wealthy men. There he meet a beautiful young blond man who arouses his lust and passions as never before.
‘Had commited each touch, each kiss, each hoarse moan from Max to memory’
Tristan Walsh has grown tired of being sold and used in the brothel so when Max a few days later save Tristan from a cruel and rough client and later invites him to be Max guest at his country estate, Tristan agrees to his terms. Tristan just has to spend the nights in Max's bed and the good looking Duke is so far a very gentle lover so Tristan is glad to agree and follow Max.
“I agreed to give you my loyalty, my discretion, my body at night in your bed. I agreed to not give you my heart. And I agreed not to ask for, to want yours”
What was very nice to experience was that this was broadly similar to a conventional historical m/f romance. Everything may not be fully credible (in which romance is it?), but not unbelievable and impossible either in the 1820's.
Max is a very wealthy and powerful and hard working young man. He's one of the finer noble titles in the old aristocratic kingdom of England. Max, or the Duke, basically can arrange things as he wants them. Tristan on the other side, is a man of the people. A man from a peasant family on the countryside. He came as a very young lad to the big city to seek happiness and a new life. Tristan is handsome, well dressed, well-mannered and can bring himselves among nice people. His mother was a gentleman's daughter and that fact makes him accepted as a friend to the Duke, by the people around Max estate.
...So both the story itself, the very hot love making, the grand love story and the end feels credible and well thought out overall. Moreover, both the characters are interesting and, after a while, so gracious men. ..and sexy, horny and amazing beautiful together!
‘Wrapping an arm around Tristan, Max's lips fond the hollow behind his ear.
Tristans body tensed then relaxed back into his. “Max?��
"I'm home,”..’
I really enjoyed All in with the Duke. It was both sentimental, romantic, hot and dramatic. We were not treated with quick insta love - as a good romance should be.. for me. Here are two men with great emotions and strong feelings but it doesn't get too melodramatic as it easily can become. The social class differences matter and wasn't dissolved "easy as pie". The men had to really fight and struggle for a fine and dignified joint agreement. A little excerpt at the end maybe. But at the same time that made the final scene as much better.
...and a wonderful cute epilogue to enjoy as an added plus.
Two men's lives change radically, both have to give and take... just as it must be in a durable relationship. I still think Max was the one who made the biggest change.
Surprises, several twists, very romantic and grand love in the end... as a historical should be. I just want more. ~ It will definitely be more books by Ava March in the future. Do you like historical romances, and additionally with some hot male love sometimes - then I can recommend this one.
I LIKE - want more yummy HR with manloving..
July 21, 2015
I was introduced to Ava March's historical/regency stories by way of conversation in whatsapp with Heather C. Since I didn't like that genre in general, I kinda need guidance. I did highly enjoyed my first Ava March (His Client) so I took a chance with this one (I assume this is her longest to date? Around 81k) as my personal challenge for this week. I was failing behind (it was already Friday when I started) and I thought I'd better go with an author that I know.
It was a good decision
Yes, I did notice the similarity of theme -- rich man/prostitute trope -- with His Client but it worked well. I thought the chemistry between Max and Tristan was strong and convincing. I thought the sex scenes were richly sensual -- I definitely loved their kink, and the part where they explored the passage way to then have 'sumthin' sumthin' there, was naughty and sexy!
I liked both characters -- although I must say that my scale tip a little bit towards Max. Max was the knight in shining armor here, barging in to stop a client from hurting Tristan, and then whisked Tristan away to his house at Hampshire. However, I felt for his loneliness and his burden of guilt due to his last fight with his father before his father passed away.
For me, what won him over was the fact that -- as a Duke, Max sure loved to be on his knees -- no, wait, not that (although yeah, it was a factor
) ... uhm, the fact that he was the one moving heaven and earth to being with Tristan possible.
I thought Tristan was a little bit too stubborn in the end, like he was determined to refuse ANY solution given by Max, that he was so sure it wouldn't work. He refused to meet in the middle and it annoyed me.
It was sexy (with a dash of kinky), it was sweet, and it was romantic. It put smile on my face -- I guess this historical/regency genre has something to offer after all. I definitely can't wait to see which couple would get their story next in this series.
It was a good decision
Yes, I did notice the similarity of theme -- rich man/prostitute trope -- with His Client but it worked well. I thought the chemistry between Max and Tristan was strong and convincing. I thought the sex scenes were richly sensual -- I definitely loved their kink, and the part where they explored the passage way to then have 'sumthin' sumthin' there, was naughty and sexy!
I liked both characters -- although I must say that my scale tip a little bit towards Max. Max was the knight in shining armor here, barging in to stop a client from hurting Tristan, and then whisked Tristan away to his house at Hampshire. However, I felt for his loneliness and his burden of guilt due to his last fight with his father before his father passed away.
For me, what won him over was the fact that -- as a Duke, Max sure loved to be on his knees -- no, wait, not that (although yeah, it was a factor
) ... uhm, the fact that he was the one moving heaven and earth to being with Tristan possible. I thought Tristan was a little bit too stubborn in the end, like he was determined to refuse ANY solution given by Max, that he was so sure it wouldn't work. He refused to meet in the middle and it annoyed me.
It was sexy (with a dash of kinky), it was sweet, and it was romantic. It put smile on my face -- I guess this historical/regency genre has something to offer after all. I definitely can't wait to see which couple would get their story next in this series.
July 16, 2014
I love Regency romances. What's not to love?
Curricles?
Buggering?
Swives?
Being foxed?
Dandies?
Seriously. I would rock the hell outta that. Every day of the week and twice on Sundays.
True, the sexual repression puts a damper on things, but he's a Duke! Money talks.
Maxwell Robert Michael Arrington, Viscount Shelburne, the Earl of Hertford, and the ninth Duke of Pelham is, by all outward indications, one stodgy fellow. It's always the quiet ones. He's taciturn and isolated in his dukedom. Works all the time. You know what they say about all work and no play. Makes for a grumpy grumperton.
Max's friend, Rawlings, encourages him to work off some steam at Mrs. Rubicon's, a brothel, where he meets Tristan. Lovely Tristan. *sigh* Tristan takes Max's breath away with his lithe beauty and delicate visage. However, underneath that dandy of an exterior lies a spine of steel. He's unflappable and uncowed by Max's intimidating presence.
I loved the synergy of their relationship. Tristan brings out the best in Max, encourages him to live his life rather than toil away behind a desk endlessly punishing himself for a stupid, adolescent outburst. Max tries to resist the lure of Tristan's affable and intoxicating personality, and he does a good job of maintaining his stoicism much longer than most would've lasted against Tristan's considerable charms. Max gives Tristan the confidence to rise above his appointed station in life.
This is my first encounter with Ms. March and I went straight into Sharp Love (book 2 of this series); that's how much I loved this story. These two characters… I fell in love with them. They're both so well developed and their story is so compelling, I sunk right into it and didn't want to leave. I fell in love with this world she's created. I actually was hoping there would be a book about Morgan, Max's driver and man Friday. Guess what? Sharp Love is Morgan's book. YEEEEEEEE!
I loved how Max met Tristan on his terms. I loved how verbal they were, the lack of dramatics, that Max never condescended to Tristan, and how he evolved and blossomed with Tristan, but I particularly loved that Tristan held his ground. He didn't capitulate the minute Max showed up on his doorstep.
Don't EVEN get me started on these two in the bedroom… HOLY MOTHER!
I have a friend who says we don't really talk about what sex scenes turn us on, we just that the sex was 'hot', so in the interest of full disclosure. The kink level is mild with some bondage, edging and spanking, but oh, the way Tristan begs… will melt your tires. I like kinky. This is not news, but one thing that really gets me is when the dominant puts his submissive in bondage and bottoms. It was my favorite scene in Fettered and here. Scorching. Something about a submissive begging to come while fucking his dominant is… yeah.
I would highly recommend All In with the Duke. It's beautifully written with superb character development. The story did lull for me a bit in the middle, but it didn't last long and in the grand scheme of things it didn't detract from my loving this book to pieces.
Curricles?
Buggering?
Swives?
Being foxed?
Dandies?
Seriously. I would rock the hell outta that. Every day of the week and twice on Sundays.
True, the sexual repression puts a damper on things, but he's a Duke! Money talks.
Maxwell Robert Michael Arrington, Viscount Shelburne, the Earl of Hertford, and the ninth Duke of Pelham is, by all outward indications, one stodgy fellow. It's always the quiet ones. He's taciturn and isolated in his dukedom. Works all the time. You know what they say about all work and no play. Makes for a grumpy grumperton.
Max's friend, Rawlings, encourages him to work off some steam at Mrs. Rubicon's, a brothel, where he meets Tristan. Lovely Tristan. *sigh* Tristan takes Max's breath away with his lithe beauty and delicate visage. However, underneath that dandy of an exterior lies a spine of steel. He's unflappable and uncowed by Max's intimidating presence.
I loved the synergy of their relationship. Tristan brings out the best in Max, encourages him to live his life rather than toil away behind a desk endlessly punishing himself for a stupid, adolescent outburst. Max tries to resist the lure of Tristan's affable and intoxicating personality, and he does a good job of maintaining his stoicism much longer than most would've lasted against Tristan's considerable charms. Max gives Tristan the confidence to rise above his appointed station in life.
This is my first encounter with Ms. March and I went straight into Sharp Love (book 2 of this series); that's how much I loved this story. These two characters… I fell in love with them. They're both so well developed and their story is so compelling, I sunk right into it and didn't want to leave. I fell in love with this world she's created. I actually was hoping there would be a book about Morgan, Max's driver and man Friday. Guess what? Sharp Love is Morgan's book. YEEEEEEEE!
I loved how Max met Tristan on his terms. I loved how verbal they were, the lack of dramatics, that Max never condescended to Tristan, and how he evolved and blossomed with Tristan, but I particularly loved that Tristan held his ground. He didn't capitulate the minute Max showed up on his doorstep.
Don't EVEN get me started on these two in the bedroom… HOLY MOTHER!
He wanted Max's bare skin beneath his hands. Wanted to have all that power and strength crouched above him, driving into him, driving him to the edge and shoving him over it.
I have a friend who says we don't really talk about what sex scenes turn us on, we just that the sex was 'hot', so in the interest of full disclosure. The kink level is mild with some bondage, edging and spanking, but oh, the way Tristan begs… will melt your tires. I like kinky. This is not news, but one thing that really gets me is when the dominant puts his submissive in bondage and bottoms. It was my favorite scene in Fettered and here. Scorching. Something about a submissive begging to come while fucking his dominant is… yeah.
I would highly recommend All In with the Duke. It's beautifully written with superb character development. The story did lull for me a bit in the middle, but it didn't last long and in the grand scheme of things it didn't detract from my loving this book to pieces.
January 10, 2014
I don’t think any of you know this (or even care-ha!), but I’m not a stranger to Historical novels. In the days before e-readers I ploughed my way through all the Stephanie Laurens novels my local library had to offer (which was a lot!) and when those ran out, I devoured all the Lisa Kleypas ones, and then all the Julia Quinn ones and then all the …okay, you get the idea. I loved this stuff, so I overindulged and …I burned out. Years later and it would appear that I am being coaxed back to the genre with M/M books like Blessed Isle and this authors other work Thief. The illicit taboo of gay relationships in the Regency/Victorian era is certainly becoming a compelling device … well, usually.
Now, All in for the Duke was nice. It was fine. I liked it …enough. I’m just not that excited about it. It’s the typical new age Cinderella Benderella type trope: The Duke rescues the prostitute from a life of service and exploitation. He whisks the beautiful creature away to his great big Manor home whereby said creature will serve to keep the lonely Duke’s bed warm at night. No strings, no attachments, it’s a win-win arrangement for both Duke (Max) and lovely creature (Tristan) But does it last? Will their sizzling chemistry (which neither have experienced the likes of before) and compatibility (shared penchant for kink) in the bedroom lead to forbidden feelings that neither man can switch off?
Now many readers love this book and I CAN see why. The characters have the potential to get under your skin and feed on your empathy. But my problem is that …well, I know this story; it’s one I’ve read many, many times before. *Tips hat to Rose (the saucy old minx) down the library who rec’d Stephanie Laurens & co*
Max is the kind of man who is seriously stoic with a commanding presence, unyielding in his convictions – just like a Duke should be. I liked him a lot! So when he affects an uncharacteristic grovelling desperation for Tristan I felt the realism of the plot dissolving into fairy tale land. His behaviour is too much at odds with his character AND his status. Tristan is well, a bit of an ungrateful air head to be honest. Does the man not know how lucky he is! He landed a duke for gawds sakes and it’s not good enough?! Pfft …yeah right. Again we tripped into fairy tale land. And totally off topic now: I have to wonder how Max maintains his broad shouldered, muscled physique with ripped belly when all he does and has done for the last 6 years is sit at his desk. Hmm?
Okay, so those are my niggles and really, they are niggles because I feel that his was made for the diehard romance reader who would prefer to sacrifice period realism for a glorious happy ending and that’s not me, not anymore. I don’t want to put you off because this book is well written, erotically charged and many readers adore these characters too. I overall liked this one and will recommend it despite MY niggles.
Now, All in for the Duke was nice. It was fine. I liked it …enough. I’m just not that excited about it. It’s the typical new age Cinderella Benderella type trope: The Duke rescues the prostitute from a life of service and exploitation. He whisks the beautiful creature away to his great big Manor home whereby said creature will serve to keep the lonely Duke’s bed warm at night. No strings, no attachments, it’s a win-win arrangement for both Duke (Max) and lovely creature (Tristan) But does it last? Will their sizzling chemistry (which neither have experienced the likes of before) and compatibility (shared penchant for kink) in the bedroom lead to forbidden feelings that neither man can switch off?
Now many readers love this book and I CAN see why. The characters have the potential to get under your skin and feed on your empathy. But my problem is that …well, I know this story; it’s one I’ve read many, many times before. *Tips hat to Rose (the saucy old minx) down the library who rec’d Stephanie Laurens & co*
Max is the kind of man who is seriously stoic with a commanding presence, unyielding in his convictions – just like a Duke should be. I liked him a lot! So when he affects an uncharacteristic grovelling desperation for Tristan I felt the realism of the plot dissolving into fairy tale land. His behaviour is too much at odds with his character AND his status. Tristan is well, a bit of an ungrateful air head to be honest. Does the man not know how lucky he is! He landed a duke for gawds sakes and it’s not good enough?! Pfft …yeah right. Again we tripped into fairy tale land. And totally off topic now: I have to wonder how Max maintains his broad shouldered, muscled physique with ripped belly when all he does and has done for the last 6 years is sit at his desk. Hmm?
Okay, so those are my niggles and really, they are niggles because I feel that his was made for the diehard romance reader who would prefer to sacrifice period realism for a glorious happy ending and that’s not me, not anymore. I don’t want to put you off because this book is well written, erotically charged and many readers adore these characters too. I overall liked this one and will recommend it despite MY niggles.
September 9, 2018
Audio 4.5
Story 4.25
Story 4.25
November 11, 2013
When I saw this I just knew it would be for me. As a young girl, my first introduction into the book world of romance was by the wonderful Jude Deveraux. I was hooked. I loved the world of Historical Romance and read everything I could get my hands on. To combine my first love of romance with my current love was a chance I was more than willing to take. This book, this author and the world I stepped into when I read London, 1822 was like coming home for me.
The prologue starts us off right. We know from page one who Max Arrington is on the surface. What he, as a duke (do not get me started on the feels and the puddle I was turned into with the first Your Grace) is capable of and what he will not stand for. The way he hunted to get his point across was amazing. Taking us to the present, 10 months later, we see Max, Duke of Pelham as his official title and his responsibilities that come with it. His intriguing acquaintance and fellow member in the House of Lords, Rawlings just wants Max to have a little fun. With a small suggestion...
Something for everyone leads Max to employ the services off Tristan Walsh, a prostitute with the ginger hair who set my Nook, I mean Max’s lust on fire. From the moment the men meet, they realize the attraction they have and how this time, this time things could be different. Their first time together was HOT. No other way to say it, they were so sexy, so passionate and I realized I needed to develop a poker face as I was sneak reading this at my desk as well as taking a walk into the crisp air to cool off. Max immediately realizes that this will not be a one-time deal for him but with his life, his management of the Dukedom in the country how can he make it work with someone he feels a pull toward in London?
Tristan, my beautiful ginger haired one and twenty year old man who stole my heart the second I realized we also get his POV. Tristan is a whore due to circumstance and as he sees the girls leave the brothel as Mistresses, he knows this can never be his future. Tristan sees in Max what he could never have yet feels the difference lacking in his usual customers with him and when something happens that was not supposed to be seen, Max flexes his Duke muscles and comes to the rescue and offers a Tristan a way out.
Once out in the country we get into the heart of these men. We learn their secrets, their past and oh the things they hide in drawers bought from shops before they left London. Yes, I am hinting at the bit of kink in this book that was beautifully done. I loved the scenes we got with it and what a special treat Tristan gets from Max’s wonderful memory. The time spent amongst Max and Tristan was fun, sexy, sensual and breathtaking both in the daylight and darkness of each day spent together.
All in With the Duke was my first book from Ava March and I am now a fan of her work. This was a welcome back to the world of Historical Romance with the mention of White's, late suppers and the bothersome Ton. I felt so comfortable reading this story, knowing from my prior book experience the lay of the land but of course with the twist of my boys. This book was gorgeous, the story telling beautiful and the relationship melted me into the puddle where I love to be. I liked how each secret was revealed, how the men dealt with the change in their relationship and grew with it and the end was done wonderfully. I cannot imagine how two men would carry on a relationship during the 1800’s without it being a problem but the solution was believable to this fan girl of historical romance.
I am more than intrigued that there will be more in this series and I am crossing my fingers of who the next books will be about.
*ARC provided by Carina Press via NetGalley*
The prologue starts us off right. We know from page one who Max Arrington is on the surface. What he, as a duke (do not get me started on the feels and the puddle I was turned into with the first Your Grace) is capable of and what he will not stand for. The way he hunted to get his point across was amazing. Taking us to the present, 10 months later, we see Max, Duke of Pelham as his official title and his responsibilities that come with it. His intriguing acquaintance and fellow member in the House of Lords, Rawlings just wants Max to have a little fun. With a small suggestion...
You should consider it, though. A night of debauchery puts a smile on a man’s face like nothing else. Rubicon’s. It has something for everyone. Everyone, no matter your tastes.
Something for everyone leads Max to employ the services off Tristan Walsh, a prostitute with the ginger hair who set my Nook, I mean Max’s lust on fire. From the moment the men meet, they realize the attraction they have and how this time, this time things could be different. Their first time together was HOT. No other way to say it, they were so sexy, so passionate and I realized I needed to develop a poker face as I was sneak reading this at my desk as well as taking a walk into the crisp air to cool off. Max immediately realizes that this will not be a one-time deal for him but with his life, his management of the Dukedom in the country how can he make it work with someone he feels a pull toward in London?
On a positive note, he now has a reason to look forward to returning to London. He could pay Tristan a call whenever he came to Town. It was either an occasional visit to the brothel or nothing. Nothing was damn lonely, and Rubicon’s held an exquisitely beautiful man who fit beneath Max like he had been made for him.
Tristan, my beautiful ginger haired one and twenty year old man who stole my heart the second I realized we also get his POV. Tristan is a whore due to circumstance and as he sees the girls leave the brothel as Mistresses, he knows this can never be his future. Tristan sees in Max what he could never have yet feels the difference lacking in his usual customers with him and when something happens that was not supposed to be seen, Max flexes his Duke muscles and comes to the rescue and offers a Tristan a way out.
“What I am proposing is an arrangement that can be mutually advantageous, and mutually pleasurable for both of us.”
“So…you are offering to keep me?” Tristan asked.
“Keep?”
“Similar to a mistress, but I would live with you.”
Max nodded. That about summed it up. All the benefits of a lover without the associated risks. “Yes.”
Once out in the country we get into the heart of these men. We learn their secrets, their past and oh the things they hide in drawers bought from shops before they left London. Yes, I am hinting at the bit of kink in this book that was beautifully done. I loved the scenes we got with it and what a special treat Tristan gets from Max’s wonderful memory. The time spent amongst Max and Tristan was fun, sexy, sensual and breathtaking both in the daylight and darkness of each day spent together.
All in With the Duke was my first book from Ava March and I am now a fan of her work. This was a welcome back to the world of Historical Romance with the mention of White's, late suppers and the bothersome Ton. I felt so comfortable reading this story, knowing from my prior book experience the lay of the land but of course with the twist of my boys. This book was gorgeous, the story telling beautiful and the relationship melted me into the puddle where I love to be. I liked how each secret was revealed, how the men dealt with the change in their relationship and grew with it and the end was done wonderfully. I cannot imagine how two men would carry on a relationship during the 1800’s without it being a problem but the solution was believable to this fan girl of historical romance.
One night with you was all it took. I just wanted to be with you again.
I am more than intrigued that there will be more in this series and I am crossing my fingers of who the next books will be about.
*ARC provided by Carina Press via NetGalley*
December 2, 2013
Well that was a surprise!
I will be the first to admit, I am *not* a fan of historical romance. It’s just not my thing. And honestly, I didn’t realize that’s what this was when I requested it from NetGalley. Imagine my surprise when I opened it and the first line set the scene as November 1821. Ugh! What did I get myself into?
But I decided to give it a go. It takes a little getting used to. The way they talk and the way they dress (cravats and waistcoats!) is different than contemporary romance, but the story itself was beautiful!! And very, very HOT!!
Max is the Duke of Pelham. He’s been burned by a past boyfriend, so he’s been alone for the past 10 months. He’s in London for session when a friend suggests he visit Rubicon’s, an upscale brothel.
There he meets Tristan… lithe, graceful, and lean with fine features, high, prominent cheekbones and a full mouth. Max was immediately taken with his good looks.
I absolutely adore a forbidden love story! And you can’t get much more forbidden than Duke + prostitute. Ava March has a new fan in me! I loved it!!
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I will be the first to admit, I am *not* a fan of historical romance. It’s just not my thing. And honestly, I didn’t realize that’s what this was when I requested it from NetGalley. Imagine my surprise when I opened it and the first line set the scene as November 1821. Ugh! What did I get myself into?
But I decided to give it a go. It takes a little getting used to. The way they talk and the way they dress (cravats and waistcoats!) is different than contemporary romance, but the story itself was beautiful!! And very, very HOT!!
Max is the Duke of Pelham. He’s been burned by a past boyfriend, so he’s been alone for the past 10 months. He’s in London for session when a friend suggests he visit Rubicon’s, an upscale brothel.
“You should consider it, though. A night of debauchery puts a smile on a man’s face like nothing else. Rubicon’s. The house with the twin red doors on Curzon Street. It has something for everyone. Everyone,” he reiterated, “no matter your tastes. Trust me. All you need to do is ask.”
There he meets Tristan… lithe, graceful, and lean with fine features, high, prominent cheekbones and a full mouth. Max was immediately taken with his good looks.
“How was it possible for a man to look so innocent yet so eager to be debauched at the same time?”
I absolutely adore a forbidden love story! And you can’t get much more forbidden than Duke + prostitute. Ava March has a new fan in me! I loved it!!
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2013
4.5 stars, rounded up because emotions.
I might attempt a review later when my thoughts are more clear, but I will say I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romp. Super sexy and romantic story, with beautiful characters. I'm in my happy place.
I might attempt a review later when my thoughts are more clear, but I will say I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romp. Super sexy and romantic story, with beautiful characters. I'm in my happy place.
December 5, 2013
I enjoy Ava March's lush M/M historicals and this was no exception. The Duke is weathy, hard-working, and alone because he likes both men and some BDSM play in his bed. He was burned by attempted blackmail by his first real love, and is unwilling to risk his heart or his reputation again. He's determined to be careful, but beautiful prostitute Tristan gets under his skin fast.
The BDSM here was pretty light, adding flavor and a bit of plot, more than intensity. A few minor points that seemed Americanized or a little out of era were not a big concern. Starting with a pretty familiar romance set-up (rich man and prostitute) this one had a plot that worked for me, and both men had quirks that made them unique individuals. I liked Tristan's stubbornness, and Max's willingness to bend.
The BDSM here was pretty light, adding flavor and a bit of plot, more than intensity. A few minor points that seemed Americanized or a little out of era were not a big concern. Starting with a pretty familiar romance set-up (rich man and prostitute) this one had a plot that worked for me, and both men had quirks that made them unique individuals. I liked Tristan's stubbornness, and Max's willingness to bend.
July 26, 2015
3.5 stars
I liked this book and I loved the characters.
Max and Tristan are so sweet together, It was a beautiful m/m "pretty woman" story.
Max, a respected duke, with a broken heart, after his former lover left him while threatening to expose his sodomy tendencies if he will not pay him a large sum.
A year later, his loneliness leads him to Tristan, a male prostitute.
After they spend a couple of evenings together, Max wants to pay Tristan in order for him to come and live with him and warm his cold lonely bed.
I absolutely loved the beginning, the first 30% where lovely. At that point it got a bit monotonous, then, at 50%, as Max opened for Tristan, and they started to have some nice conversations.
But at 70% it all went so wrong, at least for me.
Tristan behaved like a spoilt girl, who wanted everything, and made Max so hopelessly crazy.
I wish the author wouldn't have made Tristan into that annoying boy.
The sex was... HOT! Soooo HOT! Absolutely yummy!
Max was a very considerate lover that did not treat Tristan like a prostitute, and I loved that about him.
If I wouldn't have read a couple of amazing historical romances just before reading this one, it might have gotten 4 stars, but it lacked... Something extra...
I liked this book and I loved the characters.
Max and Tristan are so sweet together, It was a beautiful m/m "pretty woman" story.
Max, a respected duke, with a broken heart, after his former lover left him while threatening to expose his sodomy tendencies if he will not pay him a large sum.
A year later, his loneliness leads him to Tristan, a male prostitute.
After they spend a couple of evenings together, Max wants to pay Tristan in order for him to come and live with him and warm his cold lonely bed.
I absolutely loved the beginning, the first 30% where lovely. At that point it got a bit monotonous, then, at 50%, as Max opened for Tristan, and they started to have some nice conversations.
But at 70% it all went so wrong, at least for me.
Tristan behaved like a spoilt girl, who wanted everything, and made Max so hopelessly crazy.
I wish the author wouldn't have made Tristan into that annoying boy.
The sex was... HOT! Soooo HOT! Absolutely yummy!
Max was a very considerate lover that did not treat Tristan like a prostitute, and I loved that about him.
If I wouldn't have read a couple of amazing historical romances just before reading this one, it might have gotten 4 stars, but it lacked... Something extra...
January 16, 2014
A rich fancy lad falls in love with a whore fancy lad and together they put some big things in some bums and get absolutely foxed to the point of being wheelbarrow drunk.
I thought this book would have more problems.. you know... involved with their sexuality rather than just problems with communication and trust, but nah, it was all about the relationship. Which was pleasant.
I like this. All of this book was good for me. I love the dark, brooding, yet fiercely loyal hero. Eat that shit for breakfast. Plus I'm a sucker for regency novels of all sorts.
Fantastic writing, great story, loveable characters.
Weeeee!
I thought this book would have more problems.. you know... involved with their sexuality rather than just problems with communication and trust, but nah, it was all about the relationship. Which was pleasant.
I like this. All of this book was good for me. I love the dark, brooding, yet fiercely loyal hero. Eat that shit for breakfast. Plus I'm a sucker for regency novels of all sorts.
Fantastic writing, great story, loveable characters.
Weeeee!
November 11, 2013
First of all, I'm going to start by admitting that Ava March is a HUGE guilty pleasure of mine. When I saw that this book was around 81,000 words, you would not believe how excited I was since I'm pretty sure its the longest story she's released.
In All In With The Duke, Maxwell Robert Michael Arrington, Viscount Shelburne, the Earl of Hertford, and the ninth Duke of Pelham has been deeply betrayed and blackmailed by a previous lover, threatening to reveal his preferences and kinks. After months of loneliness, his good friend Rawlings encourages Max to visit Rubicon's Brothel, a high-end, discreet establishment. There he meets Tristan Walsh, a young man selling his body to pay off his gambling debts. There is an immediate attraction between Max and Tristan and neither man can get the other one out of his mind.
After an unexpected incident at the brothel, Max makes Tristan a delicious and beneficial offer he can't refuse: Tristan agrees to move to Max's country home and become his "kept man"...strictly a professional business arrangement and nothing more. Yeah right! While Max spends all the daylight hours running the dukedom and the nights with Tristan in his bed, Tristan quickly becomes bored with Max's workaholic ways, even as he grows more attached to the real Max underneath all of the titles. Can Max and Tristan ever move past the original agreement of the Dom and his prostitute?
I really loved this story...it has all the classic kinkiness of every other Ava March story, but with this one we get the added length. It was long enough for me to actually feel the connection between Max and Tris, even when their miscommunications made me want to scream. However, I DID like their "sexual" miscommunications; I thought that made this story fresh and different from all those characters who have perfect sex every time. I don't know how she does it, but for me, Ava's smut keeps getting hotter and kinkier. Yeah, the story was a bit predictable and the premise was very similar to His Client, but who cares???!!! It was smutty deliciousness!
This is the first book of the Gambling on Love trilogy. I cheated and skimmed the blurbs of the future books and discovered that Morgan will get his story in book two, and Rawlings in the third. Yay!!
Recommended.
In All In With The Duke, Maxwell Robert Michael Arrington, Viscount Shelburne, the Earl of Hertford, and the ninth Duke of Pelham has been deeply betrayed and blackmailed by a previous lover, threatening to reveal his preferences and kinks. After months of loneliness, his good friend Rawlings encourages Max to visit Rubicon's Brothel, a high-end, discreet establishment. There he meets Tristan Walsh, a young man selling his body to pay off his gambling debts. There is an immediate attraction between Max and Tristan and neither man can get the other one out of his mind.
After an unexpected incident at the brothel, Max makes Tristan a delicious and beneficial offer he can't refuse: Tristan agrees to move to Max's country home and become his "kept man"...strictly a professional business arrangement and nothing more. Yeah right! While Max spends all the daylight hours running the dukedom and the nights with Tristan in his bed, Tristan quickly becomes bored with Max's workaholic ways, even as he grows more attached to the real Max underneath all of the titles. Can Max and Tristan ever move past the original agreement of the Dom and his prostitute?
I really loved this story...it has all the classic kinkiness of every other Ava March story, but with this one we get the added length. It was long enough for me to actually feel the connection between Max and Tris, even when their miscommunications made me want to scream. However, I DID like their "sexual" miscommunications; I thought that made this story fresh and different from all those characters who have perfect sex every time. I don't know how she does it, but for me, Ava's smut keeps getting hotter and kinkier. Yeah, the story was a bit predictable and the premise was very similar to His Client, but who cares???!!! It was smutty deliciousness!
This is the first book of the Gambling on Love trilogy. I cheated and skimmed the blurbs of the future books and discovered that Morgan will get his story in book two, and Rawlings in the third. Yay!!
Recommended.
December 5, 2013
This is a classic story of forbidden love. Not only two men falling in love, but a duke falling for a prostitute in early 1800's London.
Almost a year after having been betrayed by a lover, Max visits a brothel where he meets Tristan. After a few visits, Max finds Tristan with an abusive client and rushes in to save the day. Tristan had been working to pay off a debt. Max works out a deal with the brothel owner and is soon taking Tristan home under an arrangement where Tristan will spend his nights with Max for as long as the two enjoy it, with no emotional attachment.
The two main characters were both well written. Max is extremely wealthy, but is lonely and sad, running his dukedom on his own. He struggles with guilt and feelings of betrayal. Tristan is smart and optimistic, he is straightforward and yearns for some independence. As Tristan tries to draw Max out of the bubble he has created for himself, the two form a friendship by day and by night, Tristan is more than happy to indulge Max's kinks. The drama and conflict arise when Tristan realizes he has fallen in love with Max and that due to the class differences, the relationship will never work.
There is really nothing new to the story, but the characters and the good pacing of the story kept me reading. The majority of the story is the two men spending time together and I could really feel the relationship building between the two of them. The chemistry between the characters was very good and the love scenes well written with light BDSM. Overall an enjoyable read.
A copy of the book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Almost a year after having been betrayed by a lover, Max visits a brothel where he meets Tristan. After a few visits, Max finds Tristan with an abusive client and rushes in to save the day. Tristan had been working to pay off a debt. Max works out a deal with the brothel owner and is soon taking Tristan home under an arrangement where Tristan will spend his nights with Max for as long as the two enjoy it, with no emotional attachment.
The two main characters were both well written. Max is extremely wealthy, but is lonely and sad, running his dukedom on his own. He struggles with guilt and feelings of betrayal. Tristan is smart and optimistic, he is straightforward and yearns for some independence. As Tristan tries to draw Max out of the bubble he has created for himself, the two form a friendship by day and by night, Tristan is more than happy to indulge Max's kinks. The drama and conflict arise when Tristan realizes he has fallen in love with Max and that due to the class differences, the relationship will never work.
There is really nothing new to the story, but the characters and the good pacing of the story kept me reading. The majority of the story is the two men spending time together and I could really feel the relationship building between the two of them. The chemistry between the characters was very good and the love scenes well written with light BDSM. Overall an enjoyable read.
A copy of the book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
October 3, 2013MM?
Regency?
YUP!!!
Regency?
YUP!!!
October 21, 2017
I loved this story.
Not only did it have incredibly sex scenes, but these two together were amazing. They sucked me in while reading.
I love how this book could have fallen into a few traps - Max could have easily acted like he owned Tristian, Tristian could have become a character that was happy just being Max's kept man, suffering in silence while he loved Max and said nothing about it, and so on. But Tristian actually stands up for himself and demands what he deserves fairly early on into the "arrangement"
And Max's behavior was not one of a rich, entitled aristocrat, but more of a damaged man who didn't know how to open his heart again, and held guilt over his shoulders for years and years.
I loved how they got to a place in order to be together. I'm sure this happened in real life all the time back then, men and women in same sex relationships having to figure out some way to be together while hiding it from society at large. I loved how they got to a healthy place in their relationship, where it wasn't just Tristian being there to warm Max's bed - he leaves Tristian to his own devices in the early days of their "arrangement" not seeming to care what Tristian does and Tristian has to find things to do to stave off boredom in the daytime at first - but them being as close to equals as they could get while one is of Max's status and Tristian is not.
I feel like this could have been a pretty standard erotica story without much substance to the characters and their relationship, but it wasn't, it was wonderful. Well written, steamy, and interesting, well rounded characters.
Loved this <3, definitely recommend :D
Not only did it have incredibly sex scenes, but these two together were amazing. They sucked me in while reading.
I love how this book could have fallen into a few traps - Max could have easily acted like he owned Tristian, Tristian could have become a character that was happy just being Max's kept man, suffering in silence while he loved Max and said nothing about it, and so on. But Tristian actually stands up for himself and demands what he deserves fairly early on into the "arrangement"
And Max's behavior was not one of a rich, entitled aristocrat, but more of a damaged man who didn't know how to open his heart again, and held guilt over his shoulders for years and years.
I loved how they got to a place in order to be together. I'm sure this happened in real life all the time back then, men and women in same sex relationships having to figure out some way to be together while hiding it from society at large. I loved how they got to a healthy place in their relationship, where it wasn't just Tristian being there to warm Max's bed - he leaves Tristian to his own devices in the early days of their "arrangement" not seeming to care what Tristian does and Tristian has to find things to do to stave off boredom in the daytime at first - but them being as close to equals as they could get while one is of Max's status and Tristian is not.
I feel like this could have been a pretty standard erotica story without much substance to the characters and their relationship, but it wasn't, it was wonderful. Well written, steamy, and interesting, well rounded characters.
Loved this <3, definitely recommend :D
September 9, 2016
The Duke: I have a fondness for leather.
The Rent Boy: I surmised as such.
Max and Tristan are extremely likable. OK, they are lovable! Esp. Max. I've got a little crush on Max, The Duke of Pelham.
I might have given this 4 stars for the predictable story, but the black marble dildo is worth one star alone. It's like a third MC. Hooray for delivering a promised dildo, avoiding pet peeve number #60 and scoring one for kink #1.
Truthfully, Max's frustration and loneliness is so endearing and he's all pure hot alpha. And Tristan is lithe, brave, strong, never showing fear of Max's mood swings. I just wanted to hug drunken brooding Max, rub all his worries away.
Kudos for no typos and a pleasant phrasing and pace throughout. I would have liked to see more external conflict (an ex-lover, a public scandal, something) but still really enjoyed spending time in jolly old England with these two sweet horny blokes, and the dildo.
The Rent Boy: I surmised as such.
Max and Tristan are extremely likable. OK, they are lovable! Esp. Max. I've got a little crush on Max, The Duke of Pelham.
I might have given this 4 stars for the predictable story, but the black marble dildo is worth one star alone. It's like a third MC. Hooray for delivering a promised dildo, avoiding pet peeve number #60 and scoring one for kink #1.
Truthfully, Max's frustration and loneliness is so endearing and he's all pure hot alpha. And Tristan is lithe, brave, strong, never showing fear of Max's mood swings. I just wanted to hug drunken brooding Max, rub all his worries away.
Kudos for no typos and a pleasant phrasing and pace throughout. I would have liked to see more external conflict (an ex-lover, a public scandal, something) but still really enjoyed spending time in jolly old England with these two sweet horny blokes, and the dildo.
November 24, 2013
Well, I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book so much, but to tell the truth, I loved it! The idea of a gay relationship on the 19th century, seemed impossible, and if one the man is a duke, more impossible it seemed... but the solution for their problem was brilliant! Max and Tristan share such a beautiful love...
June 17, 2015
*4.5 stars*
Loved, loved, loved it! I liked Tristan but I adored Max (especially when he's drunk).
Moving on to the second book ASAP
Loved, loved, loved it! I liked Tristan but I adored Max (especially when he's drunk).
Moving on to the second book ASAP
December 24, 2014
I shall listen to this narrator telling me all the stories of love and buggering until the end of time. He did justice to Ava March's words and the quiet strength he put into both Max and Tristan's voices was sublime.
Highly recommended!
Highly recommended!
August 26, 2014
2.5 or 3 stars - I haven't quite made up my mind...
If you've read The Gentleman and the Rogue already, I would recommend you don't read this - there are far too many similarities which makes you feel this is distinctly unoriginal. Likewise, if you're going to read this, don't read the other one. Just a suggestion.
This began rather nicely - I admit it: a self-confident noble and an attractive male prostitute generally gets me a little hot under the collar and the writing flowed so I settled in to read this expecting something more. It took a while but I began to get irritated by some of the anachronistic terminology/expressions apparently used in 1821, England. No... just... no. I don't think it would bother me as much if I didn't feel it tried so hard to be British/old school with other random archaic words.
So yeah, this review is most likely affected by previous reading choices but enjoy :-)
If you've read The Gentleman and the Rogue already, I would recommend you don't read this - there are far too many similarities which makes you feel this is distinctly unoriginal. Likewise, if you're going to read this, don't read the other one. Just a suggestion.
This began rather nicely - I admit it: a self-confident noble and an attractive male prostitute generally gets me a little hot under the collar and the writing flowed so I settled in to read this expecting something more. It took a while but I began to get irritated by some of the anachronistic terminology/expressions apparently used in 1821, England. No... just... no. I don't think it would bother me as much if I didn't feel it tried so hard to be British/old school with other random archaic words.
So yeah, this review is most likely affected by previous reading choices but enjoy :-)
October 13, 2013
I enjoyed this straight-up historical romance very much. No need for shifters, or vampires or serial killers. Just two boys in Regency England finding each other, and then working out a way to be together.
Granted, one is a Duke (read: Extremely rich and powerful), and the other is down on his luck (read: rentboy while paying off gambling bets), but the sparks that ignite when they get together are undeniable and unforgettable.
Max's character is revealed slowly - he is dour and self-disciplined. He has been hurt and denies himself any sexual attention, until his only friend (Rawlings - next book about him I bet you) coerces him to a house of ill-repute, where he meets the very sexy Tristan.
Tristan is twink-like, but with a clever mind and a strong personality. I loved his resilience and courage. I loved their in-bed antics and the emotion that builds up between them.
The narrative takes readers between London and Hampshire and it takes all of Tristan's strength to stand up to Max and force him to take a good long look at himself.
Provided by the publisher via Netgalley with thanks, this book comes out on November 11 2013.
This is a really good story, with two really interesting heroes. I will reread and look forward to further ones in this series.
Granted, one is a Duke (read: Extremely rich and powerful), and the other is down on his luck (read: rentboy while paying off gambling bets), but the sparks that ignite when they get together are undeniable and unforgettable.
Max's character is revealed slowly - he is dour and self-disciplined. He has been hurt and denies himself any sexual attention, until his only friend (Rawlings - next book about him I bet you) coerces him to a house of ill-repute, where he meets the very sexy Tristan.
Tristan is twink-like, but with a clever mind and a strong personality. I loved his resilience and courage. I loved their in-bed antics and the emotion that builds up between them.
The narrative takes readers between London and Hampshire and it takes all of Tristan's strength to stand up to Max and force him to take a good long look at himself.
Provided by the publisher via Netgalley with thanks, this book comes out on November 11 2013.
This is a really good story, with two really interesting heroes. I will reread and look forward to further ones in this series.
June 13, 2014
3.5-4 stars
This was my first Ava March book, it will not be my last. I'm not a fan of historicals, I pretty much avoid them when possible, and perhaps that is why some aspects that bothered other readers didn't bother me. I wasn't caught up in what was realistic for the time or the proper behavior for a duke.
I enjoyed the characters. I felt for them, I got a little frustrated with them, and I hoped for them.
The BDSM aspect was fairly light. There was some crazy hotness in here. I mean it was worth the read if for no other reason than to hear Tristan beg
"Fuck me. Please.
Oh...and beg he did! He was killing me...in the best possible way.
Beyond just the romance between the two and the complications that made their being together not feasible, I liked the change in the characters as individuals. They found value in their lives, a sense of worth that had been missing for them before...and it wasn't that they met each other and all problems melted away, either, there were still obstacles. So, while it may not have been historically accurate or whatever, I enjoyed it and will read more from this author.
This was my first Ava March book, it will not be my last. I'm not a fan of historicals, I pretty much avoid them when possible, and perhaps that is why some aspects that bothered other readers didn't bother me. I wasn't caught up in what was realistic for the time or the proper behavior for a duke.
I enjoyed the characters. I felt for them, I got a little frustrated with them, and I hoped for them.
The BDSM aspect was fairly light. There was some crazy hotness in here. I mean it was worth the read if for no other reason than to hear Tristan beg
"Fuck me. Please.
Oh...and beg he did! He was killing me...in the best possible way.
Beyond just the romance between the two and the complications that made their being together not feasible, I liked the change in the characters as individuals. They found value in their lives, a sense of worth that had been missing for them before...and it wasn't that they met each other and all problems melted away, either, there were still obstacles. So, while it may not have been historically accurate or whatever, I enjoyed it and will read more from this author.
March 13, 2014
This M/M historical romance was the perfect balance between sweet and sexy, with great characters and a realistic struggle towards their happily ever after given the time period.
January 28, 2014
3.5 Stars
First, I'm not really a fan of historical romance. So, I am always surprised at how much I love Ms. March's books. And, I mean LOVE them. I love her writing. I love her characters. I love the period, despite the oppressive laws and social mores. But I'm likewise saddened by the circumstances in which these characters inevitably find themselves.
Here, Max and Tristan were lovely and I enjoyed them both. However, I would be less than honest if I did not express my grave irritation with Tristan in the last 20% of the book. Begin rant ...
Lastly, in the end, Max's "gift" - to my way of thinking - solved little. Although I was happy ... ne, overjoyed ... for their HEA, I couldn't really buy it. As another GR buddy noted, I didn't trust it. So, once again, I felt slighted on Max's behalf. Disconcerting.
Bottom line: I liked the story but the ending left me unfulfilled.
First, I'm not really a fan of historical romance. So, I am always surprised at how much I love Ms. March's books. And, I mean LOVE them. I love her writing. I love her characters. I love the period, despite the oppressive laws and social mores. But I'm likewise saddened by the circumstances in which these characters inevitably find themselves.
Here, Max and Tristan were lovely and I enjoyed them both. However, I would be less than honest if I did not express my grave irritation with Tristan in the last 20% of the book. Begin rant ...
Lastly, in the end, Max's "gift" - to my way of thinking - solved little. Although I was happy ... ne, overjoyed ... for their HEA, I couldn't really buy it. As another GR buddy noted, I didn't trust it. So, once again, I felt slighted on Max's behalf. Disconcerting.
Bottom line: I liked the story but the ending left me unfulfilled.
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