An Earl, His Valet, & Their Wife

Regency Menage #2

by Nicola Davidson

For five blissful years, Michael Ellis, Earl of Whitmore and his Scottish valet Gerard Hunter have been London’s happiest secret couple. Now shy, submissive Michael needs an heir…and the only solution is a marriage of convenience.
Desperate to flee an oppressive household, bluestocking Lady Katherine Kirk seizes upon the handsome earl’s unexpected proposal. However, after an unfortunate wedding night, it is dominant Gerard’s stern guidance that changes everything. As feelings grow and the trio leave no carnal desire unexplored, they dare to dream of a future together. But a determined enemy will stop at nothing to destroy their hard-won love…

This kinky Regency MMF menage romance contains explicit sex scenes and language.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, M M F, Historical, Novella, BDSM, Marriage Of Convenience

163 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Nicola Davidson worked for many years in media and government communications, but hasn't looked back since she decided writing erotic historical romance was infinitely more fun. When not chained to a computer, she can be found ambling along one of New Zealand’s beautiful beaches, cheering on the All Blacks rugby team, history geeking on the internet, or daydreaming. If this includes dessert—even better!
Her books have appeared in USA Today, NPR, and Entertainment Weekly.
Keep up with Nicola’s news on Twitter (@NicolaMDavidson) Facebook (Nicola Davidson – Author) Instagram (nicoladauthor) or her website www.nicola-davidson.com

Reviews

[riley ☠︎︎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars✨ soooo good and so sweet! I can’t believe I’m saying this but I want another epilogue of them having a lot more children/babies🥹

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: MMF, Marriage of Convenience
3rd Act Breakup?: No
Final Thoughts: I really loved this! The trio was so sweet, the smut was🔥. My only issue was how quickly things progressed. That said, I don’t typically read a lot of regency romance so the timing might be normal for the genre and I’m just not used to it!

[ToriLovesHea’s · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always love a spicy/sweet Nicola Davidson novella but this one didn’t *quite* work for me as well as some of her other Polyam HisRoms.

I did really love the set up of Gerard and Michael already being in an established, committed relationship and both willingly accepting Michael marrying to beget an heir. And I liked Katherine at the start of the book. She’s willing to enter into a total marriage of convenience if it means being out from her mother’s thumb and having kids of her own to love. But after the marriage (which starts with bad sex! My fav!), Katherine pretty much lost all personality and felt a bit like a piece of the wall paper, there and noticeable but faded into the background.

But! It was very sweet and had a dastardly villain trying to annul the marriage so he could inherit which was appropriately evil. And the spice was great, if that’s why you’re here. Historical DP is hard to come by but when it’s there, it’s THERE, baby.

[Jen's Quick & Dirty Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Anxious Earl Stars

✔️ Triple POVs (Micheal x Katherine x Gerald)
✔️ Set in Regency London
✔️ Open-door historical romance (5/5 🌶️)
✔️ Tropes: Ménage, marriage of convenience

This book is for you if you think historical romances sometimes fall short on passion. This is a perfect, quick read that’s loaded with spicy scenes. The Earl of Whitmore (Micheal) and his valet (Gerald) are already in a long-term relationship when the Earl suddenly needs an heir. Lady Katherine is bold and adventurous, leading to a trio of love.

Highly recommend reading as a palate cleanser as you work through plot-heavy TBRs!

[Suzy Vero · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sizzling hot story… quick read with an interesting cast of characters… unusual plot for a ménage. Just wish I’d read a book like this where none of the main characters was submissive. Sweet HEA tho!

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75✨ ~ See now that, that was beautiful. A very sweet regency romance that had an incredible trio and their own journeys to a very amazing happy ever after. The boyfriends were boyfriends, her feelings were addressed, and I just cannot believe how much a loved it! Ahh! ❤ ❤ ❤

[Kristin Hankey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who am I? And why do I eat this shit up?

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ménage MMF Regency

An Earl, His Valet and Their Wife is book two in the Regency Ménage series that can be read as a standalone. This is a MMF erotic romance that features kinks and a dom/sub relationship.

Michael Ellis, Earl of Whitmore, and his Scottish valet, Gerard Hunter have been faithfully committed to one another for the last five years. When Michael’s mother has a health scare, her only wish is for grandchildren and a new heir so his disreputable cousin doesn’t inherit. Surprisingly, his dominant partner agrees and understands the need for an heir. On Gerard’s suggestion of marrying Lady Katherine Kirk, they wed. Katherine is the youngest of four daughters, a blue stocking, and at 25 is unable to deny the match. But she knows it could be worse than marrying a handsome, sought after bachelor and was kind as well. After a disappointing wedding night, a few honest conversations lead the way for the trio to learn about each other and the best path forward together. Just as long as they can hold off the nefarious cousin.

I came across this author last spring and has became an auto read for me. I am not heavy into BDSM but do enjoy to read these in a historical setting when I come across them. This was a quick paced and enjoyable read. The plot is clear from the beginning which allows for each character to adjust to the changing dynamics of the relationship. I liked Michael and Gerard and that they both knew who they were already. A lover of gothic novels Katherine has an imagination that made for enjoyable inner comedic thoughts. There’s four encounters and one off the page in the beginning. All encounters once Katherine has been introduced occur with the knowledge of all partners and the off the page encounter occurs in the beginning before meeting Katherine. It’s an erotic romance so the steam level is through the roof with three of the four being extreme fire.

[Slwd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael, Gerard, and Katherine Makes Three

"An Earl, His Valet, & Their Wife" is a Regency MMF ménage story by Nicola Davidson. Michael, the Earl, and Gerard, his valet, have been happily living the life of a couple behind closed doors. Michael's mother and stepfather, along with their household staff, have accepted this relationship because of the love and devotion the pair share. However, Michael's mother wants Michael to sire an heir and to do that, he must marry. Michael is aware of his duty, even Gerard is on board. The current heir to the earldom is good for nothing, freeloader, cousin Nero Ellis. No one wants Nero to inherit, except Nero, and probably his wife. Katherine, a bluestocking wallflower who is a voracious reader accepts Michael's offer of marriage. I thoroughly enjoyed this story about a submissive earl and his dominant valet. Michael has so many responsibilities as an earl, the one place he doesn't have to be in control is the bedroom. Gerard is the perfect master for him. Katherine enters the house oblivious to the relationship between her husband and his valet. She knows they are close, as in friends close. Things start to get interesting when Michael wants to invite Gerard into the bedroom for advice on how to pleasure his wife. Katherine agrees hoping to experience passion and pleasure. Each of these characters fit into the story, they were well thought out, they made each other stronger. This is an MMF story, where the men are intimate with each other as well as intimate with Katherine. Gerard continues with his role as the dominant to the submissive husband and wife. Nero is the antagonist in the story, he tries what he can to discredit Katherine and Gerard, he tries to weaken Michael in his bid to remain heir, or inherit sooner rather than waiting. The story moves right along and doesn’t lag. The bedroom scenes are scorching hot and well done. Definitely recommended for lovers of regency ménage stories and fans of Nicola Davidson, she does such a great job in this genre.

[Pollyana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of Nicola’s historical romances, especially her menage books, but this one unfortunately didn’t hit the same with me. Where a Rake, Patron, and their Muse was very fun in how subversive its characters were and how unique the main location felt, this story felt a bit “safer” by Davidson’s standards in terms of character types, feeling like it was retreading ground. Plus the female lead unfortunately felt a bit plain. (She’s into gothic literature!! I wish she was a bit gothic and morose herself, that would have been a fun dynamic and not something I’ve seen for a romance heroine. Unfortunately Katherine ended up feeling very normie to me)

I’m a huge Davidson fan and buy everything she writes, and there defs were some characters I liked like Michael’s parents and the wonderful cameo of the triad in RPM, but I was expecting a bit more from the characters in this book as I know Davidson can stretch herself farther with her characters and plot.

Also this book leans pretty heavy on the breeding kink, which personally wasn’t for me, but if you’re into that you’ll probably enjoy this a lot

[Kaitlyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this one better than the first. It was more my speed with less emphasis on sex and more plot. There was still the same aspects when it comes to sex in this one but it wasn’t all they thought about.

I do wish there was more tension in certain reveals for the characters like Katherine finding out about Gerry and Michael, or Gerry’s doubts. It was explored as they dwelled but it was so simply and easily solved it wasn’t entirely realistic. Then again, that is to say this is definitely a book where the menage aspect of their trio is the main emphasis. The target is definitely more so for people who want something light hearted and spicy. I knew that going into this so I cannot fault the book for that aspect.

Oddly enough, I both liked the characters but also found them to be a bit flat. Gerry certainly had the most depth, but Michael and Katherine felt more surface level which was interesting because they’re the two in this marriage of convenience. Whereas Gerry, who is not technically the third wheel, is sort of the third wheel. There’s depth in how he processes this. It isn’t simple or all accepting. Michael and Katherine dwell on their issues too, but it is surface level aspects that are easily solved.

Rep: Bi MCs, poly.

[K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Content warnings: queerphobia, attempted institutionalisation(??), slut shaming

3.5 stars

Look, this was fun but I literally only read it because I needed a book with polyamory for a Pride Month reading challenge. This needed, in my mind, one or two less sex scenes and one or two more conversations between the trio in question about, like, boundaries and the future and children rather than them just........jumping into bed together and then living happily ever after and society being fine with it. The subplot with the dastardly cousin wrapped up a tad too quickly and it would have been nice to see that actually finished off in a satisfying way. But for all my complaints, this was fast paced and ultimately charming.

[mk meow · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐
5🌶️

It felt rushed, but was only 160pages. There was enough meat there, it coulda been longer.

Lord, s
Valet, D

Established MM couple of Lord + valet, his family is aware and okay with it. His mother decides he still needs an heir and pitches MOC. He takes it back to his valet, who agrees that it's a workable plan. Valet suggests name- 25yo, book lover spinster. He goes, agrees with her father, and pitches MOC to her. She realizes he's in love with an "unsuitable" but agrees.

They marry. Doesn't take long before wife realizes they are together. She's also attracted, tests him and thinks he is too, pitches throuple and they agree.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael needs a wife to produce an heir for his title. He and his valet, Gerard, have been involved in a relationship for 5 years. Gerard suggests Katherine because they have similar interests. Katherine accepts and they are married quickly. Michael has no idea what to do. Katherine does not know how to let Michael know what she needs plus she's attracted to Gerard. Gerard is attracted to her also. What are they to do?

I loved this story. It was intense as the three all have desires for each other but none of them can speak about it at first. Finally, they do begin communicating. Michael's cousin is a jerk. He tries to break them apart. I liked that Michael shows his determination to keep his "family" together. I also enjoyed the cousin getting his comeuppance. The cousin, while a villain, does provide the catalyst for the three of them to decide what is important to them. I liked their decision.

I hope there will be more in this series. But, in the meantime, I will be reading other books by Nicola Davidson. She's become a favorite of mine.

[The Leppy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I could not put this book down! Its sweet and burning hot. My only complaint is that I wish we could have gotten to know each character a bit more. I could have read another 50-100 pages getting to know Katherine, Michael, and Gerard for sure. We do see through their interactions who they are and how compatible they are I just craved more. I will always rate a romance highly when there is communication which this book is chock-full with communication and consent.

[Ciru · Rating 3 out of 5]

First official book of 2024.

Funny that it is essentially a historical romance. Seems "unconventional" historical romance is the only way I'll read the genre.

I appreciate that the book was short enough and also was a complete story. Smut is there. Passion is there. But most importantly, clear communication when they realized they all want each other was there.

I enjoyed reading this.

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

i loved this! short, sweet, sexy, so much fun. i found it on a whim and then realized that it was the second in a series, so as soon as i finished it, i went back to read the first!

i wish this were longer, simply because i liked spending time with the characters, but everything that needed to be addressed was done, so i get why it ended.

[Katelynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you need something quick, historical, queer, and kinky, Nicola Davidson is the way to go. My only complaint is I would’ve loved if this had been a full length book with a longer timeline and more nuance, but it was so sexy, romantic, and joyful. I love finding a steamy read with great characters I can devour in a few hours!

[jack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and sweet MMF regency smut. i was honestly not expecting it to be as heartfelt as it was, and the sex scenes were very much to my liking. I might have liked a bit more buildup, it seemed kind of like they just instantly fell in love with their new third as soon as they met her, but i appreciated it regardless.

[Elizabeth Lively · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good for them.

Sometimes novellas are a satisfying quickie and sometimes I'm left wishing there was a little more depth. . .a greater connection. The explicit and steamy intimacy was on the page but without the romance it seemed more like porn instead of sensual erotica. I think perhaps there should have been more kissing and more conversations.

[Ellisnoblebooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ero sempre stata curiosa di leggere Nicola Davidson e mi è spiaciuto che il libro fosse così breve perché la storia ne avrebbe ulteriormente giovato se avesse avuto più tempo per svilupparsi... ma questo significa che leggerò altro di lei perché scrive molto bene e c'è bisogno di più relazioni poliamorose nei romance

[Mariah Wamby · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a solid follow up, but I did enjoy the first book more. I felt that the reveal of Gerard’s past was underwhelming, Michael’s anxiety could’ve been displayed better, and I wish that Katherine had shown some interest in motherhood earlier in the story.

Still really enjoyed this one and look forward to the next in the series.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ravishing good time

Davidson's best are her MMF and the latest does not disappoint: love, drama, and fun sexy times abound. Hoping for more stories in this world with more trios soon!

[Coral · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author’s spicy but ultimately very sweet romances keep getting stronger. Despite being short managed good character building. The villain was slightly moustache-twirling. I would have loved an extended epilogue into the future.

[Chibime · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recommend for those who’s diving into MMF

Always the so and so book that break my dry reading spells. A simple read where the heroine is too open minded in 18th century england lol.

[Angela Harriman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good as expected

As usual one hot and sexy romantic romp with a touch of innocence. A little short. More conflict would add length and intrigue would enhance the story but the interaction between the main characters is great.

[Greyland Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Ginny Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

steamy and swoony

My favorite of Nicola Davidson’s so far! She packs an incredible amount of character development into a short novel, and the steam is top notch.

[Nicole Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars. i just love the way nicola davidson writes historical romance, especially the polyamorous ones. so steamy, sweet, excellent communication, fun, and a super quick & entertaining read

[Tween 2 Teen Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, quick read