What do you think?
Rate this book
Gentlemen Make the Best Prisoners
Lord Louis Earlshope has always lived a privileged yet boring life. Having hardly anything in his twenty years to complain about, save for bouts of ennui or the occasional hangnail, he dreams of adventure and romance…so long as he can obtain it without dirtying his waistcoat.
But he learns to be careful what he wishes for when his luxurious lifestyle is suddenly torn away after meeting a mysterious man referred to only as “The General” under unfortunate circumstances.
Jack Sterling is as enigmatic as he is handsome. With his black whiskers and one eye, he’s returned to England to get his revenge on Louis’s father for wronging him many years ago. How lucky, then, to find the sole heir of the Earlshope family name traveling alone and unattended…
Too bad Jack isn’t as experienced with kidnapping as he assumed, and Louis certainly isn’t the easiest charge to handle. As they make their way across the countryside of England, encountering old friends, fellow kidnapped nobles, and flamboyant underworld revelers, Jack and Louis can’t help but feel sparks fly as they bicker and resist one another at every chance.
But all is not as it seems, and the attraction the two men feel for one another might ruin them both if they aren’t careful.
Can a jaded man forgive the family who ruined him? Can a noble learn to love his kidnapper? Are gentlemen, after all, the best prisoners to take?
Read on in this feisty Victorian comedy of manners, featuring an age-gap MM romance, a snobby protagonist, a brooding anti-hero, and a guaranteed happy ever after!
But he learns to be careful what he wishes for when his luxurious lifestyle is suddenly torn away after meeting a mysterious man referred to only as “The General” under unfortunate circumstances.
Jack Sterling is as enigmatic as he is handsome. With his black whiskers and one eye, he’s returned to England to get his revenge on Louis’s father for wronging him many years ago. How lucky, then, to find the sole heir of the Earlshope family name traveling alone and unattended…
Too bad Jack isn’t as experienced with kidnapping as he assumed, and Louis certainly isn’t the easiest charge to handle. As they make their way across the countryside of England, encountering old friends, fellow kidnapped nobles, and flamboyant underworld revelers, Jack and Louis can’t help but feel sparks fly as they bicker and resist one another at every chance.
But all is not as it seems, and the attraction the two men feel for one another might ruin them both if they aren’t careful.
Can a jaded man forgive the family who ruined him? Can a noble learn to love his kidnapper? Are gentlemen, after all, the best prisoners to take?
Read on in this feisty Victorian comedy of manners, featuring an age-gap MM romance, a snobby protagonist, a brooding anti-hero, and a guaranteed happy ever after!
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2023
20 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 20, 2023
3.5 stars
This was nice and pulpy (something, something, quality beverage) and totally hit the spot, though it won't be particularly memorable.
This was actually a lot less silly than I thought it might be based on the cover, not that it's inaccurate. I guess I was expecting the eye patch to be more of a prop, but really it's just a physical trait like any other. This is definitely not a bad thing!
I would have preferred Louis to stay a bit more bratty, but I liked his development from total snob to friendly snob. I appreciated how he spoke his mind, and called Jack out on a few things over the course of the book. Jack of course is a not-so-secret softie, and I quite enjoyed him as a character.
A pity Maurice didn’t get what was coming, even a phrase in a letter from Madame D'Arc would have been enough to satisfy me on that front.
There's some anachronistic speech and typos which only seemed to get more frequent as the book went on. No, I assure you that marquees ≠ marquess, and I noticed Louis misspelled as Louise at one point.
Though perhaps not realistic, I also liked the relatively low level of homophobia and the casual queerness at Bastien/Eliza's house.
I also actually quite liked the HFN ending and enjoyed their negotiations in the last chapters. It managed to be sweet and hopeful without falling into the saccharine, and it was a good way of handling the significant age gap between them.
This was nice and pulpy (something, something, quality beverage) and totally hit the spot, though it won't be particularly memorable.
This was actually a lot less silly than I thought it might be based on the cover, not that it's inaccurate. I guess I was expecting the eye patch to be more of a prop, but really it's just a physical trait like any other. This is definitely not a bad thing!
I would have preferred Louis to stay a bit more bratty, but I liked his development from total snob to friendly snob. I appreciated how he spoke his mind, and called Jack out on a few things over the course of the book. Jack of course is a not-so-secret softie, and I quite enjoyed him as a character.
A pity Maurice didn’t get what was coming, even a phrase in a letter from Madame D'Arc would have been enough to satisfy me on that front.
There's some anachronistic speech and typos which only seemed to get more frequent as the book went on. No, I assure you that marquees ≠ marquess, and I noticed Louis misspelled as Louise at one point.
Though perhaps not realistic, I also liked the relatively low level of homophobia and the casual queerness at Bastien/Eliza's house.
I also actually quite liked the HFN ending and enjoyed their negotiations in the last chapters. It managed to be sweet and hopeful without falling into the saccharine, and it was a good way of handling the significant age gap between them.
October 29, 2023
Plot and characters are all over the place...
I'll start with what I liked:
The premise sounded fun. Some spice without getting too serious. I'm also a fan of historical settings.
Next, what I didn't like:
This is a romance. Unfortunately, I did not see any real chemistry between Louis and Jack. The first intimate scene left me with whiplash. In my opinion, the characters say they love each other with no real evidence besides the fact that the say it.
Furthermore, Louis is childish...uncomfortably so. He is frequently called "little lord" with "boy" and even "child" thrown in... alongside explicitly sexual scenes with a man "twice his age." This did not feel great to read.
Louis also comes off as bratty and unlikeable with no character growth. There is a lot of "tell don't show," including with his character: it's stated a few times that his attitude and maturity are improving while he acts exactly the same. He also uses very exaggerated language, again sounding immature: everything is "vulgar and base," from talking to servants to eating on a train (???).
I also was not a fan of Jack. I quickly became frustrated by inconsistencies in his characterization. He is alternately described as an intimidating, rough, and "diabolical" versus gentle, respectful, and caring. On multiple occasions he goes out of his way to be kind at the same time Louis is lamenting how scary and cruel he is. I could not figure out whether this was Louis being a brat or a writing issue.
There are extended periods of time where Louis is not, in fact, being held captive. He continues to lament being captive during these times.
Other characters were also oddly written. The Madame, for instance, goes from threatening to cut off Louis's digits to chastising anyone who dares hurt his feelings. Why? It isn't really explained.
In conclusion, I did not enjoy this book. There is a lot of room for improvement with both the characters and the plot.
Thank you for the chance to check this book out for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
I'll start with what I liked:
The premise sounded fun. Some spice without getting too serious. I'm also a fan of historical settings.
Next, what I didn't like:
This is a romance. Unfortunately, I did not see any real chemistry between Louis and Jack. The first intimate scene left me with whiplash. In my opinion, the characters say they love each other with no real evidence besides the fact that the say it.
Furthermore, Louis is childish...uncomfortably so. He is frequently called "little lord" with "boy" and even "child" thrown in... alongside explicitly sexual scenes with a man "twice his age." This did not feel great to read.
Louis also comes off as bratty and unlikeable with no character growth. There is a lot of "tell don't show," including with his character: it's stated a few times that his attitude and maturity are improving while he acts exactly the same. He also uses very exaggerated language, again sounding immature: everything is "vulgar and base," from talking to servants to eating on a train (???).
I also was not a fan of Jack. I quickly became frustrated by inconsistencies in his characterization. He is alternately described as an intimidating, rough, and "diabolical" versus gentle, respectful, and caring. On multiple occasions he goes out of his way to be kind at the same time Louis is lamenting how scary and cruel he is. I could not figure out whether this was Louis being a brat or a writing issue.
There are extended periods of time where Louis is not, in fact, being held captive. He continues to lament being captive during these times.
Other characters were also oddly written. The Madame, for instance, goes from threatening to cut off Louis's digits to chastising anyone who dares hurt his feelings. Why? It isn't really explained.
In conclusion, I did not enjoy this book. There is a lot of room for improvement with both the characters and the plot.
Thank you for the chance to check this book out for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
October 29, 2023
This was such a good, fun read! I downloaded this one on a whim without reading any reviews. I am so happy that I enjoyed it so much. I love a good kidnapping romance and this definitely fit the bill. I also didn’t realize I was in the mood for a historical romance, but that definitely hit the spot as well. Great book by a new to me author that I will be sure to check out more of. 100% recommend.
October 31, 2023
I really wanted to love this one… but I really struggled. I know what it was going for; brat and brat tamer set in regency England.
What I got was a main character (Louis) who was immature and written as awkwardly young - honestly sometimes it seemed like he was 16 not 20 (sticking his tongue out at a kidnapper, spitting water at him etc… like really?) and that made the relationship with the older man, Jack (who I think was about as old as Louis’s dad? Maybe? Unclear) just feel a bit awkward.
Also, I didn’t connect with Jack at alllll. Like at all. He was just some sexy older guy with an eyepatch who ran into trouble when he was a solider, ended up being exiled and wanting revenge. But I just didn’t buy the love between him and Louis.
The one redeeming character in this book was Bastien, the fabulously gay drag queen who looks after Louis and Jack for a time.
Idk you guys, I know a lot of other reviewers love this, so if it sounds like your cuppa, give it a go! I also think in general I struggle with historical romance so that also contributed to my lack of enjoyment; I keep thinking I’m going to find the book to change my mind, and maybe I will, but it wasn’t this one.
Thanks to the lovely gang at Booksirens for the free eARC. All opinions are my own.
What I got was a main character (Louis) who was immature and written as awkwardly young - honestly sometimes it seemed like he was 16 not 20 (sticking his tongue out at a kidnapper, spitting water at him etc… like really?) and that made the relationship with the older man, Jack (who I think was about as old as Louis’s dad? Maybe? Unclear) just feel a bit awkward.
Also, I didn’t connect with Jack at alllll. Like at all. He was just some sexy older guy with an eyepatch who ran into trouble when he was a solider, ended up being exiled and wanting revenge. But I just didn’t buy the love between him and Louis.
The one redeeming character in this book was Bastien, the fabulously gay drag queen who looks after Louis and Jack for a time.
Idk you guys, I know a lot of other reviewers love this, so if it sounds like your cuppa, give it a go! I also think in general I struggle with historical romance so that also contributed to my lack of enjoyment; I keep thinking I’m going to find the book to change my mind, and maybe I will, but it wasn’t this one.
Thanks to the lovely gang at Booksirens for the free eARC. All opinions are my own.
Read
October 29, 2023Okay, I had very different expectations coming in... I wish I could have liked it because chapter one had a really interesting lead buuut the rest of it didn't satisfy me. The book was a little too long. I don't think the main couple had much chemistry and I didn't care about seeing them fall in love. And lastly, it wasn't that funny...
It's not badly written. I just didn't enjoy the characters at all..
I got a free ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It's not badly written. I just didn't enjoy the characters at all..
I got a free ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2023
This regency-MM-enemy-to-lovers story is one of the best reads of 2023. The chemistry between Jack and Louis is the stuff of dreams. The snarking dialogues, the teasing, and even the secondary characters that help the narrative are spot on.
Miss D'arc is an attraction in her own right. She is responsible for most of the best lines and funny moments in the story.
It is a solid five- star-read.
Miss D'arc is an attraction in her own right. She is responsible for most of the best lines and funny moments in the story.
It is a solid five- star-read.
October 14, 2023
This book was quite exquisite, to be honest. I loved every second of it. It was funny and fast paced, but also sweet, heartfelt and spicy. 😳
Set in 1875 England, the book tells the story of Louis Earlshope, the only son of the Marquees of Tilby, a very sheltered and privileged 20 year old who is kidnapped by a mysterious man. A man that is tall, and scary looking, and missing an eye. A man that's been wronged by Louis' father in the past and is seeking justice - Jack Sterling.
Following these two characters on their ridiculous adventures was so much fun. Their chemistry was absolutely magnetic from the moment they met. Even if the dynamic between them is unusual, given that one kidnaps the other, they gradually develop a relationship that made my heart melt. The 20 year old age gap between them should have been weird, but it's actually beautifully addressed, and only briefly at the end. I appreciated that this wasn't a big deal, because in the grand scheme of things, it really isn't.
Louis is a very snobby, inexperienced young man. He thinks he is above the help and others around him, he is also very rude at the beginning, leading to Jack calling him a brat. Their interactions were so damn enjoyable, their banter and mutual teasing were perfectly used in crafting their relationship.
The self discovery journey Louis embarks on was absolutely magnificent, the end of the book giving us a much improved version of himself. He's so lonely, confused and starved for affection at the beginning, constantly battling with the idea of how he's supposed to be based on societal expectations, and how he really is and what he truly wants.
With subtle discussions of class, gender roles and sexuality, and with a diverse cast of side characters, this book is marvellously queer. I loved it so much.
Thank you to the author and Booksprout for providing a digital ARC.
Set in 1875 England, the book tells the story of Louis Earlshope, the only son of the Marquees of Tilby, a very sheltered and privileged 20 year old who is kidnapped by a mysterious man. A man that is tall, and scary looking, and missing an eye. A man that's been wronged by Louis' father in the past and is seeking justice - Jack Sterling.
Following these two characters on their ridiculous adventures was so much fun. Their chemistry was absolutely magnetic from the moment they met. Even if the dynamic between them is unusual, given that one kidnaps the other, they gradually develop a relationship that made my heart melt. The 20 year old age gap between them should have been weird, but it's actually beautifully addressed, and only briefly at the end. I appreciated that this wasn't a big deal, because in the grand scheme of things, it really isn't.
Louis is a very snobby, inexperienced young man. He thinks he is above the help and others around him, he is also very rude at the beginning, leading to Jack calling him a brat. Their interactions were so damn enjoyable, their banter and mutual teasing were perfectly used in crafting their relationship.
The self discovery journey Louis embarks on was absolutely magnificent, the end of the book giving us a much improved version of himself. He's so lonely, confused and starved for affection at the beginning, constantly battling with the idea of how he's supposed to be based on societal expectations, and how he really is and what he truly wants.
With subtle discussions of class, gender roles and sexuality, and with a diverse cast of side characters, this book is marvellously queer. I loved it so much.
Thank you to the author and Booksprout for providing a digital ARC.
October 4, 2023
messy review:
i was a little hesitant to pick up this arc since a lot of it's tropes are ones im usually not the biggest fan of, but i just loved the pattagony puppeteer way too much to pass on this opportunity
louis and jacks dynamic is lighthearted enough for me not to feel uncomfortable however i would've liked it even more if they would've stayed away from the storta flirting for a little while longer (second day seems a little too soon) especially since it kinda fizzled out for a while once they got to madame d'arcs
"how am i supposed to stare at your prick with decency?" that is the best piece of dialogue i have ever read
while i would've appreciated a little bit more of a slow burn, especially with these tropes, i felt a lot less uncomfortable than i thought i would so, damn well done. seriously i mean it, im kinda stunned.
bastien is a little shit. i love him
miscommunication, or no communication in this case. idk i still don't understand why louis didn't tell jack the truth, it made the whole conflict that came afterwards feel kinda forced, especially since for the past few chapters they haven't really been struggling with communicating. i will however say i do like how louis calls jack out on his bullshit. because yes you have done a lot for him, but you also have done a lot TO him.
idk why it was so funny hearing louis being completely done with being kidnapped. he just "seriously, again?" kinda reminds me of the second time will gets shot in the will darling adventures
i was a little hesitant to pick up this arc since a lot of it's tropes are ones im usually not the biggest fan of, but i just loved the pattagony puppeteer way too much to pass on this opportunity
louis and jacks dynamic is lighthearted enough for me not to feel uncomfortable however i would've liked it even more if they would've stayed away from the storta flirting for a little while longer (second day seems a little too soon) especially since it kinda fizzled out for a while once they got to madame d'arcs
"how am i supposed to stare at your prick with decency?" that is the best piece of dialogue i have ever read
while i would've appreciated a little bit more of a slow burn, especially with these tropes, i felt a lot less uncomfortable than i thought i would so, damn well done. seriously i mean it, im kinda stunned.
bastien is a little shit. i love him
miscommunication, or no communication in this case. idk i still don't understand why louis didn't tell jack the truth, it made the whole conflict that came afterwards feel kinda forced, especially since for the past few chapters they haven't really been struggling with communicating. i will however say i do like how louis calls jack out on his bullshit. because yes you have done a lot for him, but you also have done a lot TO him.
idk why it was so funny hearing louis being completely done with being kidnapped. he just "seriously, again?" kinda reminds me of the second time will gets shot in the will darling adventures
September 21, 2023
Ever since I read the synopsis of this book, I've been excited to read it. After reading their other book, The Pattagony Puppeteer, I was looking forward to it even more! Sometimes, there are just authors whose writing doesn't flow nicely in my head, but Theodore Bradshaw is not one of those authors. My head and their writing are nicely compatible 😂.
Overall, this was a fun read for me. Nothing hits like queer historical romance.
I thought that Jack had an interesting backstory and that Louis' growth as a character was great to follow. I also love characters who have revenge plots only to find out that they aren't really good at it, afterall. The side characters were very enjoyable to read, and I liked reading a bit about some of the queer community within this story. I really would have loved a scene with Louis directly interacting with his father in order to see more of how their relationship was, but I can also understand why something like that wasn't included.
I felt like this book had an open ending where a potential sequel of sorts could be done. Honestly, I'm hoping it happens because I would love to read more of these characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Overall, this was a fun read for me. Nothing hits like queer historical romance.
I thought that Jack had an interesting backstory and that Louis' growth as a character was great to follow. I also love characters who have revenge plots only to find out that they aren't really good at it, afterall. The side characters were very enjoyable to read, and I liked reading a bit about some of the queer community within this story. I really would have loved a scene with Louis directly interacting with his father in order to see more of how their relationship was, but I can also understand why something like that wasn't included.
I felt like this book had an open ending where a potential sequel of sorts could be done. Honestly, I'm hoping it happens because I would love to read more of these characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2023
Gentlemen Make the Best Prisoners is a gay historical romance between a son of privilege and his mysterious kidnapper. Young Lord Louis Earlshope lives a boring life of privilege when it is disrupted by his kidnapping by a dashing and enigmatic older man called “The General”. Jack Sterling has a bone to pick with the elder Lord Earlshope and decides that kidnapping his sole heir for ransom is what needs to be done. What follows is an unlikely romance about being open to possibilities.
This was such a cute and fun read. An MM age-gap, kidnapper-kidnapee romance, it really delivers on its premise and title. Louis and Jack’s interactions were quirky and funny and the chemistry was obvious from the beginning.
Snobby and bratty Louis needed his eyes opened to a wider world than just what his soft upbringing exposed him to—of life without common comforts, of the privilege his station automatically brings him, and of the kind of love men can have with other men. Meanwhile, Jack is an inept kidnapper with a not so secret soft spot for his victim. He opens his heart to the most unlikely of partners and must learn to forgive and forget his vendetta if we wants to keep this newfound love.
The story is a series of hilarious situations strung together by Louis’ many antics and his many teasing (and spicy) relations with Jack. I do think the resolution left something to be desired as Louis’ father never really got his comeuppance, but at least both Jack and Louis both grew.
Gentlemen Make the Best Prisoners is an MM historical romance that is as fun and funny as its title suggests.
*I received an eARC via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a cute and fun read. An MM age-gap, kidnapper-kidnapee romance, it really delivers on its premise and title. Louis and Jack’s interactions were quirky and funny and the chemistry was obvious from the beginning.
Snobby and bratty Louis needed his eyes opened to a wider world than just what his soft upbringing exposed him to—of life without common comforts, of the privilege his station automatically brings him, and of the kind of love men can have with other men. Meanwhile, Jack is an inept kidnapper with a not so secret soft spot for his victim. He opens his heart to the most unlikely of partners and must learn to forgive and forget his vendetta if we wants to keep this newfound love.
The story is a series of hilarious situations strung together by Louis’ many antics and his many teasing (and spicy) relations with Jack. I do think the resolution left something to be desired as Louis’ father never really got his comeuppance, but at least both Jack and Louis both grew.
Gentlemen Make the Best Prisoners is an MM historical romance that is as fun and funny as its title suggests.
*I received an eARC via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2023
4.5 stars
The silly title encouraged me to take a chance on a completely unknown author but it paid off. This book is delightful. Funny, eventful and a bit quirky with several memorable characters. It's also kind of a coming-of-age story of Louis, who is a young bratty noble but a very charming one, without a real mean bone in his body.
I found the humour very good, there's witty banter and so many hilarious notions from Louis. But this isn't a pure comedy. Louis is kidnapped and abused. I like how this isn't just brushed off completely. There is real fear and worry and thinking about consequences of one's actions.
Kidnapping romances don't really start in a healthy place but I think these two men are good together and definitely aim for a healthier relationship in the end. Overall there's a nice balance of romance, humour and adventure, and I couldn't put the book down. I will definitely follow this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The silly title encouraged me to take a chance on a completely unknown author but it paid off. This book is delightful. Funny, eventful and a bit quirky with several memorable characters. It's also kind of a coming-of-age story of Louis, who is a young bratty noble but a very charming one, without a real mean bone in his body.
I found the humour very good, there's witty banter and so many hilarious notions from Louis. But this isn't a pure comedy. Louis is kidnapped and abused. I like how this isn't just brushed off completely. There is real fear and worry and thinking about consequences of one's actions.
Kidnapping romances don't really start in a healthy place but I think these two men are good together and definitely aim for a healthier relationship in the end. Overall there's a nice balance of romance, humour and adventure, and I couldn't put the book down. I will definitely follow this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2023
***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review***
I really enjoyed this book. The strength lies within the character of Jack and Loius. The pacing of their developing relationship was amazing. The bickering because of hatred slowly turning into the bickering of that of an old married couple who loved each other was pleasant to see primarily because it is one of my favorite tropes. The enemy-to-lovers trope can be overdone and poorly executed many times, but not in this book. This book does an excellent job of showing the different stages of a trope like that and how it can show the ups and downs of relationships.
Loius was a main character who kept me engaged the entire time and who I felt was one of the most dynamic characters I've read in a long time. I enjoyed going on the journey with him, and he did all that a main character should do to keep the reader entertained. His witty remarks and constant arguing with his own feelings really showed just how the people around him were effecting him.
Great story, and it was a fun read.
I really enjoyed this book. The strength lies within the character of Jack and Loius. The pacing of their developing relationship was amazing. The bickering because of hatred slowly turning into the bickering of that of an old married couple who loved each other was pleasant to see primarily because it is one of my favorite tropes. The enemy-to-lovers trope can be overdone and poorly executed many times, but not in this book. This book does an excellent job of showing the different stages of a trope like that and how it can show the ups and downs of relationships.
Loius was a main character who kept me engaged the entire time and who I felt was one of the most dynamic characters I've read in a long time. I enjoyed going on the journey with him, and he did all that a main character should do to keep the reader entertained. His witty remarks and constant arguing with his own feelings really showed just how the people around him were effecting him.
Great story, and it was a fun read.
October 19, 2023
The Kidnapping . . .
This is somewhat like reading multiple stories bundled together. Jack Sterling has a plan to kidnap Lord Louis Earlshope, an heir who has been complaining of boredom. (This should quickly change that bored attitude Louis has been moping around over.) Jack is seeking vengeance after being unfairly wronged. While Louis is held prisoner and threats are made to scare him to death, it was probably not the adventure Louis had been pining for. He actually starts to learn a few valuable skills, including the practice of dressing oneself without help! The story takes a turn into something even stranger as it starts to sound like more of a vacation experience because it seems that Jack is not your typical kidnapper. Jack and Louis argue and bicker and then discover they are attracted to each other. (I know this is supposed to be a funny story, but it didn’t provide likable characters for me to cheer for. And it was so silly that it was difficult for me to enjoy it.) Some people will like this type of humor, but it wasn’t a good match for me.
This is somewhat like reading multiple stories bundled together. Jack Sterling has a plan to kidnap Lord Louis Earlshope, an heir who has been complaining of boredom. (This should quickly change that bored attitude Louis has been moping around over.) Jack is seeking vengeance after being unfairly wronged. While Louis is held prisoner and threats are made to scare him to death, it was probably not the adventure Louis had been pining for. He actually starts to learn a few valuable skills, including the practice of dressing oneself without help! The story takes a turn into something even stranger as it starts to sound like more of a vacation experience because it seems that Jack is not your typical kidnapper. Jack and Louis argue and bicker and then discover they are attracted to each other. (I know this is supposed to be a funny story, but it didn’t provide likable characters for me to cheer for. And it was so silly that it was difficult for me to enjoy it.) Some people will like this type of humor, but it wasn’t a good match for me.
October 19, 2023
Theodore Bradshaw has written a really fun to read Victorian kidnapping tale with this book about horribly naive Lord Louis Earlshope who at twenty has a lot to learn about the world. Jack Sterling takes him captive to punish Louis’ father for something that happened in their shared past but the whole thing goes off the rails fairly quickly. The book is fairly low angst despite the plot although some bad stuff does happen. It’s high in feistiness, mostly on Louis’ part, but I warn you (or encourage you depending on what you like to read!) that there is plenty of feisty stuff between the two men as well. Mr. Bradshaw makes great use of the stuck together on long boring travels/only one bed tropes to further both the plot and the relationship which develops slowly as the two protagonists don’t know or trust each other in the beginning. This is a very enjoyable volume.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2023
Very interesting and entertaining read.
From the very beginning I was immersed in the world.
For me the pacing of the story is great and the way the author managed to describe the characters helped me attach to them more.
The connection between Jack and Louis is established very early on and it worked beautifully. I loved their relationship and how it changed them for the better.
Jack is my favourite character because he's a character with whom it's very easy to empathise. He's honest and loyal to the people he cares about.
The only reason I can't give five stars is probably because I wanted Jack and Louis to have more
time alone. I felt like they didn't have enough privacy to sort out their feelings to the full extent.
Overall all I had a great experience reading the story.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the very beginning I was immersed in the world.
For me the pacing of the story is great and the way the author managed to describe the characters helped me attach to them more.
The connection between Jack and Louis is established very early on and it worked beautifully. I loved their relationship and how it changed them for the better.
Jack is my favourite character because he's a character with whom it's very easy to empathise. He's honest and loyal to the people he cares about.
The only reason I can't give five stars is probably because I wanted Jack and Louis to have more
time alone. I felt like they didn't have enough privacy to sort out their feelings to the full extent.
Overall all I had a great experience reading the story.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2023
The basic premise is more than a little absurd: our heroes meet because one of them kidnaps the other, not for money, but for honour. The regrettable fact that there’s basically no way the kidnapped could be satisfied doesn’t really get acknowledged until the end of the book, which is … awkward.
The baddies in this book have a bit too much of the moustache-twirling to them, and the only serious female character largely behaves in a fashion that makes no sense at all. So that’s a bit of a shame. In general, there’s a lot more psychological sadism in this book than I would’ve preferred, and it also keeps not really being believable.
The romance is reasonably sweet, though, and the end result is solid. I guess I just don’t feel like I’m convinced by the overall story arc.
The baddies in this book have a bit too much of the moustache-twirling to them, and the only serious female character largely behaves in a fashion that makes no sense at all. So that’s a bit of a shame. In general, there’s a lot more psychological sadism in this book than I would’ve preferred, and it also keeps not really being believable.
The romance is reasonably sweet, though, and the end result is solid. I guess I just don’t feel like I’m convinced by the overall story arc.
October 16, 2023
This could be a dreadful tale on the facts alone. After all, a disgraced army officer kidnaps an heir to a marquess to avenge the death of a dear friend. There is solitary confinement, talk of sending body bits of the lord to his father, and other unpleasantness. But instead, the book is rather a delightful romp with Lord Louis discovering such stunning information as servants are actually human beings, and one can, after a fashion, dress oneself. Meanwhile, his kidnapper is not as dastardly as Lord Louis thought. the maequess is even less honorable than everyone imagined, and at some point, every man has to determine what he will make of himself, regardless of his breeding.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 23, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Le doy a este libro una calificación de 4.3. La portada me parece fenomenal y el concepto también. Este libro tenía todo por lo que soy debil: piratas, realeza, secuestro, aventura. Fue refrescante encontrar un libro con estos temas, en estos días no había encontrado libros MM en donde la historia se llevara a cabo en el pasado como la edad antigua o la edad media.
Me gustaron los personajes secundarios que aparecen dentro del libro, ciertos villanos y eventos que hicieron que el protagonista creciera como persona. Sin embargo, no le doy 5 estrellas debido a que me falto más tensión antes de su primer encuentro sexual, me pareció apresurado.
Le doy a este libro una calificación de 4.3. La portada me parece fenomenal y el concepto también. Este libro tenía todo por lo que soy debil: piratas, realeza, secuestro, aventura. Fue refrescante encontrar un libro con estos temas, en estos días no había encontrado libros MM en donde la historia se llevara a cabo en el pasado como la edad antigua o la edad media.
Me gustaron los personajes secundarios que aparecen dentro del libro, ciertos villanos y eventos que hicieron que el protagonista creciera como persona. Sin embargo, no le doy 5 estrellas debido a que me falto más tensión antes de su primer encuentro sexual, me pareció apresurado.
October 14, 2023
Lord Louis Earlshope was kidnapped by a disreputable one eyed ruffian, Jack. Jack appeared to hold a grievance against Louis's Dad. As they await his ransom, they grow attracted. Jack had just cause but Louis was an innocent pawn. As they fall in love, the sexy times develop. For an older time period in England, this was a surprisingly romantic book and the young Lord found the joy in embracing his passion for an older criminal and reprobate. Full of misunderstanding and secrets, this book is an enjoyable story to follow. I received a copy through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.
October 24, 2023
This was a fun read! I liked the premise and the characters, also it had an enemies-to-lovers romance (which is one of my favorite tropes)! A cute little captor/captee romance that takes place in 1700's London and includes lots of banter. I also enjoyed the side characters a lot (Bastian was by far my favorite). All-in-all this was a fun, quick read if you're looking for something queer with morally grey (with super soft, sweet centers) and bratty upper-class MC's then Gentlemen Make the Best Prisoners would be a good book to pick up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2023
This was a great book. I really enjoyed taking part in this world. Yes, I know there are some bad people doing bad things, bad people doing good things and good people doing stupid things but this is a great story. The snark and wit from the characters is delightful. I am so excited to read more from this author. This was just a really good book and I am lucky to have had the chance to read it.
October 29, 2023
This was such a fun read I couldn't put it down.
Louis is a bratty lord. Who takes the wrong train and gets kidnapped. Jack is the general of a group of thugs who kidnaps dear old Louis.
There back and forth banter made this book so much more fun to read. Louis never loses that smart mouth. Not caring who he's talking to made me like him from the get go.
I was given a copy of this book through book sirens for an honest review.
Louis is a bratty lord. Who takes the wrong train and gets kidnapped. Jack is the general of a group of thugs who kidnaps dear old Louis.
There back and forth banter made this book so much more fun to read. Louis never loses that smart mouth. Not caring who he's talking to made me like him from the get go.
I was given a copy of this book through book sirens for an honest review.
November 21, 2023
I bought this book on a whim and was happily rewarded with a beautiful well written tale. Admittedly the cover grabbed me but I throughly enjoyed reading about Louis and his entrapment. It’s a tale of a man-Jack-Who kidnaps Louis in an attempt to right a wrong done many years ago. Along the way Louis discovers something of himself he hadn’t, falling for his captor. With several fun side characters it ends in a hopeful HFN.
November 14, 2023
Ok read but the blackmail plot did run in circles. I also had troubles handling the tone changes, especially the dark & humour whiplash. Madame d'Arc could be a sorceress thirsting for blood then a girlfriend sharing a drink on the next page. 🤔
The first time of our virgin boy was far from ideal & made me cringe but I appreciated that it was addressed & apologies were given.
The first time of our virgin boy was far from ideal & made me cringe but I appreciated that it was addressed & apologies were given.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 15, 2023Theodore Bradshaw truly has a way with words! He is such a charming and entertaining story teller who never bores you! I am hoping that his books can be adapted into movies some day!! Looking forward to his next story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2023
I freaking loved this book. I genuinely didn't think I would like it as much as I did. Louis is just awesome, he gets kidnapped but he doesn't lose his spunk, it was hilarious. Jack tried to resist him but the poor man was already bemused with his prey. They were so adorable at times, I couldn't with them. Everything about this book was just fantastic
October 20, 2023
I wanted to like this book more than I did. It seemed overly written and could have been condensed a bit for me. The storyline was unique and well thought out. I liked the characters somewhat, I just wished there had been more to keep my interest.
November 6, 2023
This was a very fun and exciting story. Very different to other victorian romance stories I’ve read so far. I liked the characters, especially Bastien (absolutely wonderful, unapologetic and hillarious). There was adventure, witty dialogue, romance and passion. Very nice read.
October 15, 2023
Another amazing book to have read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2023
loved the plots dons twists
I would highly recommend the book. The characters were all brought to life. I hope to read more of his books.
I would highly recommend the book. The characters were all brought to life. I hope to read more of his books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews