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The Viscount's Forbidden Love
"From the moment I first met you, I have felt an inexplicable attraction. I want you, Ambrose, and I am unashamed to say it."
Daniel Stanton has been blessed with everything. He is charming, confident and handsome—and heir to the great Stanton fortune. At age 24, he has had his fair share of amorous adventures with women, as well as one tantalising experience with a man, leaving him wondering about his sexual inclinations. Those questions are quickly answered when he first meets Ambrose Cranshaw, his grandfather's estate manager. He wants the man, and what he wants, he usually gets.
Not this time though.
Ambrose Cranshaw is everything that Daniel is not. With no fortune to his name and no connections, he has had to work hard to support himself and his younger sister, climbing his way up in the world to the trusted position of the Earl of Stanton's estate manager. He may yearn in secret for other men, but he will never risk it all by acting out on his yearnings. When he first meets debonair and charming Daniel Stanton, he knows at once that the man is dangerous. With one flash of those dark, torrid eyes, Daniel could bring the whole edifice of Ambrose's life crumbling down. At all costs, Ambrose must hide his true feelings for him.
Author's The Viscount's Forbidden Love is the concluding novel in the Stanton Legacy series. It is an MM romance set in Victorian England with plenty of heart, angst and steam—and it does have a happy ending. While it can be read as a standalone, it is best appreciated as part of the series.
Daniel Stanton has been blessed with everything. He is charming, confident and handsome—and heir to the great Stanton fortune. At age 24, he has had his fair share of amorous adventures with women, as well as one tantalising experience with a man, leaving him wondering about his sexual inclinations. Those questions are quickly answered when he first meets Ambrose Cranshaw, his grandfather's estate manager. He wants the man, and what he wants, he usually gets.
Not this time though.
Ambrose Cranshaw is everything that Daniel is not. With no fortune to his name and no connections, he has had to work hard to support himself and his younger sister, climbing his way up in the world to the trusted position of the Earl of Stanton's estate manager. He may yearn in secret for other men, but he will never risk it all by acting out on his yearnings. When he first meets debonair and charming Daniel Stanton, he knows at once that the man is dangerous. With one flash of those dark, torrid eyes, Daniel could bring the whole edifice of Ambrose's life crumbling down. At all costs, Ambrose must hide his true feelings for him.
Author's The Viscount's Forbidden Love is the concluding novel in the Stanton Legacy series. It is an MM romance set in Victorian England with plenty of heart, angst and steam—and it does have a happy ending. While it can be read as a standalone, it is best appreciated as part of the series.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2024
About the author
M.M. Wakeford
25 books57 followersM.M. Wakeford lives with her husband and son in a London terraced house that gathers dust while she loses herself in her writing. A lifelong reader of romantic novels, she writes in many genres including contemporary, sci-fi and historical romance.
Her stories capture that heady feeling of falling in love, with emotionally rich characters whose journey to a happily ever after is lined with dilemmas, desire and difficult choices. If you're looking for a page turning romance with high emotion and a good dose of spice, you're in the right place.
To be the first to hear about new releases, sneak previews and exclusive extras, sign up for M.M. Wakeford's mailing list at mw-author.com.
⭐️ WHEN HE LOOKED AT ME - Out now in eBook, paperback and audio ⭐️
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Her stories capture that heady feeling of falling in love, with emotionally rich characters whose journey to a happily ever after is lined with dilemmas, desire and difficult choices. If you're looking for a page turning romance with high emotion and a good dose of spice, you're in the right place.
To be the first to hear about new releases, sneak previews and exclusive extras, sign up for M.M. Wakeford's mailing list at mw-author.com.
⭐️ WHEN HE LOOKED AT ME - Out now in eBook, paperback and audio ⭐️
Want to know more? Subscribe on my website:
https://mw-author.com/
Connect with me:
- X
- TIKTOK
- BLUESKY
- WEBSITE
- NEWSLETTER
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 7, 2026
Confessing your feelings for the umpteenth time and getting told, "I'm sorry you feel this way, my Lord, it is most unfortunate."
I honestly don't know how Daniel kept doing it. Putting himself out there boldly time and time again, in Victorian England?
I honestly don't think I've read a book where the other MC says no THIS many times. I wanted to tell Daniel he's a few steps short of a restraining order, or whatever the Victorian equivalent was.
Poor Daniel is beside himself with frustrated yearning and desire. And him having never been told no before in his life.
It's funny because you'd think, given all this, that Ambrose really wasn't interested. But no.
The first lightning bolt of attraction in this story is from Ambrose's POV. Looking at Daniel for the first time, he's struck dumb by how attracted to him he is.
He's the one that blushes with it, who stammers with it. He's also the one who says no. Repeatedly.
And I get why.
Daniel's 24 to Ambrose's 29. He doesn't yet understand how impossible it is to be that way in 1861. He's destined to be Viscount. He doesn't see how easily he could evade repercussions were they to be discovered, unlike Ambrose. He hasn't had a close friend driven to suicide by an affair just like the one he's proposing turned sour. He doesn't understand. So Ambrose has to have enough self control for both of them.
They can never be. It is just how it is.
Except....
Except it's not that easy. On either side.
Daniel's raging with jealousy that Ambrose has been having a 7 year affair with a long time friend who's estranged from her husband.
And Ambrose? Well. To put it bluntly, he's off fucking said friend 💀
With Daniel in bed next door.
It's hard to call it cheating. It's not. Ambrose has been with Lexi(well, as possible as it is to be with another man's wife) for 7 years, a close friendship that developed into more, with a once a month assignation that suited them both. Long before Daniel was ever on the horizon.
So in some ways, he's more Lexi's than Daniel's. And he's not with Daniel. Well, as possible as it is to NOT be with someone, even while thoughts of them consume your every waking moment, even if you've never touched them.
Objectively, it's not a cheating situation. Daniel's the Viscount, and Ambrose is his man of business. If they are both in love with each other, that is nobody's tightly guarded concern but their own. Individually.
Still. The effect of the chapters where in one, Daniel's lying in bed distraught, knowing Ambrose is off next door sleeping with someone who, even in her limited capacity as a married woman, can offer him more (children, public companionship) than he ever can and the next chapter where Ambrose is for all intents and purposes inside Daniel, even while he thrusts into Lexi, was intense.
So much that Daniel can't help confessing his secret feelings to his best friend, after 29 years of holding onto the one secret about his sexuality tightly.
And the worst part of it is that he knows Lexi has been in love with him. He tells her of his feelings for Daniel and she asks, teary eyed,
"What about me? Don't you love me?"
Jesus, Mary and Joseph. What a clusterfuck.
Sitting there, having just confessed his attraction to men to his safest space and getting asked, "When you're with me, do you pretend in your head that I'm someone else?"
And having to answer, even knowing it'll hurt her,
"Usually, no. But tonight...tonight, yes. He was in my head while I fucked you. Forgive me."
Terrible time to be Lexi. And yet, somehow still less terrible than it was to be Daniel and Ambrose overall.
But also, she definitely felt it in the moment. He was more passionate with her than he'd ever been.
"I thought there was something different about you. Yet, tonight, I felt more pleasure in our union than ever before. When you held and entered me so powerfully, so possessively, it made me feel desired."
Sorry, babes. The best sex of your life. And it was only because the erection wasn't meant for you.
But also, Ambrose deserved at least a slap for suggesting, after this, that he and Lexi continue their affair.
Pretty much - I can never love you. That, I reserve for Daniel, but I can find it in myself to fuck you and try my best not to think of him while I'm in you henceforth.
"Will you let me make love to you, darling? And I promise, this time, all my attention shall be on you."
The audacity!!!!!!
She said yes, folks.
I have never been so confused in my life. By both of them. What kind of friendships are people having?!?!
Poor Daniel. Asleep alone while Ambrose helps himself to seconds😂
But, hey - the first one was in Daniel's honor, I guess.
First nut goes out to you, bro. We can never be more than friends but I'll give my woman the best orgasm of her life purely off the strength my desire for you gives my erection.
I will not deny, however, that I love Daniel's brand of jealousy.
During polite morning greetings the next day, Ambrose has the audacity to say he slept like a log.
To which all Daniel has to say is basically - I heard you sneaking out last night you lying fuck and sneaking back in near dawn therefore I find it exceedingly unlikely for you to have slept like a log, as you claim.
I know where you were, you WHORE!
How long has this been going on?
And then almost collapsing when he found out it's been 7 years.
My poor baby.
"Do you love her? If she were free, would you marry her?"
And the heart shattering, "Yes. I would."
Now he's sitted there in the carriage back home, eyes full of tears and accepting something that's not even remotely true - Ambrose does not love him.
And apologizing for months of overtures. He's sorry, because he's seen the blushes and the sidelong glances, and he's always assumed Ambrose was just scared of the attraction, but now he knows without a doubt, he's been falling in love with a man who genuinely has no sexual desire towards other men. He must accept it now.
And Ambrose having the gall to offer friendship. And saying things like, "Let me tell you, friendship is nothing to sneer at, nor is it a poor substitute for love."
Fuck you, Ambrose. We know all that but come ON, man. Timing.
I hated Ambrose in that moment. Understood his thinking and hated him for it nonetheless.
Five years of hurt. Five years of Daniel living with a broken heart, pining for a man he believes doesn't love him. Four years of Ambrose being a father to a child conceived that night. Years of Daniel living alone, keeping his heart for Ambrose, seeking once a month dalliances at a gentleman's club in London.
And then one night after overwhelming news, Ambrose kisses him? Confesses he's felt the same all this while and simply never told him.
Just, oh yeah, I've always felt the same way, ha ha, surprise! Isn't it great, bro? I'm just as in love with you as you've always been with me, possibly a little longer. Isn't that funny? HA HA!
I've never been more delighted at an explosion of fury than I was Daniel's.
Because what do you mean you let that man live with a broken heart while you carried on with your life? What do you mean you could never tell anyone when you told Lexi, but not him? What do you mean you gaslit him into believing he was crazy for ever having thought you returned his affections? That maybe someone else was like him? That maybe he could love someone who would one day love him, too?
Has the gall to even add that he doesn't think he's bi like Daniel, he's only interested in men, currently only Daniel sexually.
"I no longer wish to be in your presence, Ambrose, you have lied to me and betrayed me. As soon as it can be arranged I shall leave for America, and frankly, I do not know when or if I shall ever return."
Rah!
Couldn't have happened to a nicer man.
Right before this moment meanwhile, Ambrose had been considering asking Daniel if it would be okay for Lexi and the children to move to a house on Daniel's estate.
And the sad part of it is, Daniel would have said yes. After all, he was just an uncle. And the man he loved, loved another, and he couldn't begrudge them their happiness, even if it meant having his heart broken every day.
As it had been. For five fucking years.
I found myself yet again, hating Ambrose.
I hateeeeeeeeee that Ambrose was fine and dandy with hurting Daniel consistently for 5 years but as soon as Daniel got mad and left, this man suddenly found that being hurt wasn't something he could bear and suddenly his feelings were urgent.
As for the audacity to be jealous that Daniel had been visiting a gentleman's club to find sexual relief during the 5 years, while he's had that man watching from the sidelines while he raised a family with Lexi, actually had him be Uncle Daniel.
Now making demands like, "Promise me you'll never go back there again."
Why? Can he get his needs met by watching you with your family?
Suddenly he understands jealousy.
"You will never give your body to anyone else, do you hear?"
The audacity to ask this of a man you told friendship is all you can offer(and it's nothing to sneer at).
Daniel's more forgiving than I, I'm sorry because it simply would have HAD to be five years of visiting Tremaines Gentleman's Club just to get justice for the years of tomfoolery. I need pettier MCs.
Folded quicker than a lawn chair, though, that Daniel. Even if, even now, after he'd travelled across the ocean to bdg forgiveness, Ambrose still had more caveats to how much he could give than your standard insurance contract. So many ifs, buts and whens. 🙄
Three months' time apart is not an apology, btw.
I liked Ambrose just fine at the start of this and I understood his reasons for his choice. I did. But there's nothing I hate more than an MC who asks the other to bear what he himself would not.
So. First half of this book was exquisitely a 5* read for me. The second half, I'd rate 0* if I could.
Ambrose ruined it for me. He's a hypocrite with himself, which I can forgive. Everyone lies to themselves once in a while. But he's a hypocrite with Daniel and a hypocrite with Lexi and I refuse to forgive him for that.
On breaking off the affair with Lexi, this man says, "Please tell me you're not planning to take another lover."
Like???? Okay, great. You had a 12 year affair with this married woman, whose husband abandoned her, had a child with her, are now dumping her to be with your male lover and are STILL asking her not to seek happiness elsewhere? Ever? She must consign herself to celibacy and motherhood? This is the woman you revere as your best friend????
With friends like these, who needs enemies?
He ALWAYS wants to have his cake and eat it. And somehow worse because he doesn't even want to eat the cake, he just doesn't want anyone else to, so to speak.
If you're searching for a slow burn, the first kiss is at 72% and the second at 92%. And both left me seething with rage.
I don't know if it's fortunate or not that I genuinely loved the narration for this. Eight and a half hours of listening to Philip Battley narrate this man committing aggravated emotional war crimes.
I'm a huge fan of angst but I'm not going to lie, it lowkey broke me hearing how the narration for Daniel goes from exuberance at the start, a 24 year old man excited for life and what it has to offer, to the quieter version we hear by the end, to whom life has offered Ambrose, and what that means.
Exceptional narration honestly, even if I hated how authentic it was to the story. I have actually been emotionally violated by this book.
Can I rate MCs instead of the book?
5* for Daniel.
0* for Ambrose. Fuck Ambrose.
I honestly don't know how Daniel kept doing it. Putting himself out there boldly time and time again, in Victorian England?
I honestly don't think I've read a book where the other MC says no THIS many times. I wanted to tell Daniel he's a few steps short of a restraining order, or whatever the Victorian equivalent was.
Poor Daniel is beside himself with frustrated yearning and desire. And him having never been told no before in his life.
It's funny because you'd think, given all this, that Ambrose really wasn't interested. But no.
The first lightning bolt of attraction in this story is from Ambrose's POV. Looking at Daniel for the first time, he's struck dumb by how attracted to him he is.
He's the one that blushes with it, who stammers with it. He's also the one who says no. Repeatedly.
And I get why.
Daniel's 24 to Ambrose's 29. He doesn't yet understand how impossible it is to be that way in 1861. He's destined to be Viscount. He doesn't see how easily he could evade repercussions were they to be discovered, unlike Ambrose. He hasn't had a close friend driven to suicide by an affair just like the one he's proposing turned sour. He doesn't understand. So Ambrose has to have enough self control for both of them.
They can never be. It is just how it is.
Except....
Except it's not that easy. On either side.
Daniel's raging with jealousy that Ambrose has been having a 7 year affair with a long time friend who's estranged from her husband.
And Ambrose? Well. To put it bluntly, he's off fucking said friend 💀
With Daniel in bed next door.
It's hard to call it cheating. It's not. Ambrose has been with Lexi(well, as possible as it is to be with another man's wife) for 7 years, a close friendship that developed into more, with a once a month assignation that suited them both. Long before Daniel was ever on the horizon.
So in some ways, he's more Lexi's than Daniel's. And he's not with Daniel. Well, as possible as it is to NOT be with someone, even while thoughts of them consume your every waking moment, even if you've never touched them.
Objectively, it's not a cheating situation. Daniel's the Viscount, and Ambrose is his man of business. If they are both in love with each other, that is nobody's tightly guarded concern but their own. Individually.
Still. The effect of the chapters where in one, Daniel's lying in bed distraught, knowing Ambrose is off next door sleeping with someone who, even in her limited capacity as a married woman, can offer him more (children, public companionship) than he ever can and the next chapter where Ambrose is for all intents and purposes inside Daniel, even while he thrusts into Lexi, was intense.
So much that Daniel can't help confessing his secret feelings to his best friend, after 29 years of holding onto the one secret about his sexuality tightly.
And the worst part of it is that he knows Lexi has been in love with him. He tells her of his feelings for Daniel and she asks, teary eyed,
"What about me? Don't you love me?"
Jesus, Mary and Joseph. What a clusterfuck.
Sitting there, having just confessed his attraction to men to his safest space and getting asked, "When you're with me, do you pretend in your head that I'm someone else?"
And having to answer, even knowing it'll hurt her,
"Usually, no. But tonight...tonight, yes. He was in my head while I fucked you. Forgive me."
Terrible time to be Lexi. And yet, somehow still less terrible than it was to be Daniel and Ambrose overall.
But also, she definitely felt it in the moment. He was more passionate with her than he'd ever been.
"I thought there was something different about you. Yet, tonight, I felt more pleasure in our union than ever before. When you held and entered me so powerfully, so possessively, it made me feel desired."
Sorry, babes. The best sex of your life. And it was only because the erection wasn't meant for you.
But also, Ambrose deserved at least a slap for suggesting, after this, that he and Lexi continue their affair.
Pretty much - I can never love you. That, I reserve for Daniel, but I can find it in myself to fuck you and try my best not to think of him while I'm in you henceforth.
"Will you let me make love to you, darling? And I promise, this time, all my attention shall be on you."
The audacity!!!!!!
She said yes, folks.
I have never been so confused in my life. By both of them. What kind of friendships are people having?!?!
Poor Daniel. Asleep alone while Ambrose helps himself to seconds😂
But, hey - the first one was in Daniel's honor, I guess.
First nut goes out to you, bro. We can never be more than friends but I'll give my woman the best orgasm of her life purely off the strength my desire for you gives my erection.
I will not deny, however, that I love Daniel's brand of jealousy.
During polite morning greetings the next day, Ambrose has the audacity to say he slept like a log.
To which all Daniel has to say is basically - I heard you sneaking out last night you lying fuck and sneaking back in near dawn therefore I find it exceedingly unlikely for you to have slept like a log, as you claim.
I know where you were, you WHORE!
How long has this been going on?
And then almost collapsing when he found out it's been 7 years.
My poor baby.
"Do you love her? If she were free, would you marry her?"
And the heart shattering, "Yes. I would."
Now he's sitted there in the carriage back home, eyes full of tears and accepting something that's not even remotely true - Ambrose does not love him.
And apologizing for months of overtures. He's sorry, because he's seen the blushes and the sidelong glances, and he's always assumed Ambrose was just scared of the attraction, but now he knows without a doubt, he's been falling in love with a man who genuinely has no sexual desire towards other men. He must accept it now.
And Ambrose having the gall to offer friendship. And saying things like, "Let me tell you, friendship is nothing to sneer at, nor is it a poor substitute for love."
Fuck you, Ambrose. We know all that but come ON, man. Timing.
I hated Ambrose in that moment. Understood his thinking and hated him for it nonetheless.
Five years of hurt. Five years of Daniel living with a broken heart, pining for a man he believes doesn't love him. Four years of Ambrose being a father to a child conceived that night. Years of Daniel living alone, keeping his heart for Ambrose, seeking once a month dalliances at a gentleman's club in London.
And then one night after overwhelming news, Ambrose kisses him? Confesses he's felt the same all this while and simply never told him.
Just, oh yeah, I've always felt the same way, ha ha, surprise! Isn't it great, bro? I'm just as in love with you as you've always been with me, possibly a little longer. Isn't that funny? HA HA!
I've never been more delighted at an explosion of fury than I was Daniel's.
Because what do you mean you let that man live with a broken heart while you carried on with your life? What do you mean you could never tell anyone when you told Lexi, but not him? What do you mean you gaslit him into believing he was crazy for ever having thought you returned his affections? That maybe someone else was like him? That maybe he could love someone who would one day love him, too?
Has the gall to even add that he doesn't think he's bi like Daniel, he's only interested in men, currently only Daniel sexually.
"I no longer wish to be in your presence, Ambrose, you have lied to me and betrayed me. As soon as it can be arranged I shall leave for America, and frankly, I do not know when or if I shall ever return."
Rah!
Couldn't have happened to a nicer man.
Right before this moment meanwhile, Ambrose had been considering asking Daniel if it would be okay for Lexi and the children to move to a house on Daniel's estate.
And the sad part of it is, Daniel would have said yes. After all, he was just an uncle. And the man he loved, loved another, and he couldn't begrudge them their happiness, even if it meant having his heart broken every day.
As it had been. For five fucking years.
I found myself yet again, hating Ambrose.
I hateeeeeeeeee that Ambrose was fine and dandy with hurting Daniel consistently for 5 years but as soon as Daniel got mad and left, this man suddenly found that being hurt wasn't something he could bear and suddenly his feelings were urgent.
As for the audacity to be jealous that Daniel had been visiting a gentleman's club to find sexual relief during the 5 years, while he's had that man watching from the sidelines while he raised a family with Lexi, actually had him be Uncle Daniel.
Now making demands like, "Promise me you'll never go back there again."
Why? Can he get his needs met by watching you with your family?
Suddenly he understands jealousy.
"You will never give your body to anyone else, do you hear?"
The audacity to ask this of a man you told friendship is all you can offer(and it's nothing to sneer at).
Daniel's more forgiving than I, I'm sorry because it simply would have HAD to be five years of visiting Tremaines Gentleman's Club just to get justice for the years of tomfoolery. I need pettier MCs.
Folded quicker than a lawn chair, though, that Daniel. Even if, even now, after he'd travelled across the ocean to bdg forgiveness, Ambrose still had more caveats to how much he could give than your standard insurance contract. So many ifs, buts and whens. 🙄
Three months' time apart is not an apology, btw.
I liked Ambrose just fine at the start of this and I understood his reasons for his choice. I did. But there's nothing I hate more than an MC who asks the other to bear what he himself would not.
So. First half of this book was exquisitely a 5* read for me. The second half, I'd rate 0* if I could.
Ambrose ruined it for me. He's a hypocrite with himself, which I can forgive. Everyone lies to themselves once in a while. But he's a hypocrite with Daniel and a hypocrite with Lexi and I refuse to forgive him for that.
On breaking off the affair with Lexi, this man says, "Please tell me you're not planning to take another lover."
Like???? Okay, great. You had a 12 year affair with this married woman, whose husband abandoned her, had a child with her, are now dumping her to be with your male lover and are STILL asking her not to seek happiness elsewhere? Ever? She must consign herself to celibacy and motherhood? This is the woman you revere as your best friend????
With friends like these, who needs enemies?
He ALWAYS wants to have his cake and eat it. And somehow worse because he doesn't even want to eat the cake, he just doesn't want anyone else to, so to speak.
If you're searching for a slow burn, the first kiss is at 72% and the second at 92%. And both left me seething with rage.
I don't know if it's fortunate or not that I genuinely loved the narration for this. Eight and a half hours of listening to Philip Battley narrate this man committing aggravated emotional war crimes.
I'm a huge fan of angst but I'm not going to lie, it lowkey broke me hearing how the narration for Daniel goes from exuberance at the start, a 24 year old man excited for life and what it has to offer, to the quieter version we hear by the end, to whom life has offered Ambrose, and what that means.
Exceptional narration honestly, even if I hated how authentic it was to the story. I have actually been emotionally violated by this book.
Can I rate MCs instead of the book?
5* for Daniel.
0* for Ambrose. Fuck Ambrose.
July 5, 2024
This is the last book of a series, and the only MM, but I didn’t find any need to catch up with who were the previous characters. The story was self-contained and secondary characters fit into the narrative.
Such a frustrating read! The story starts in the present and then quickly jumps to the past and continues on for five years to align with the present again. The frustration was for Daniel and Ambrose, the two MCs, to have feelings from their first meeting which only Daniel expresses and Ambrose continually shuts down to cover up his longing. The two men are a member of the English nobility and the estate manager. For five long years their frustration drags on, and mine. Yes, it was a time, the 1860’s, when it could not be lived, but it could be discreetly acted upon.
They didn’t stay horny for five years. Ambrose is having a monthly and years long affair with a spurned gentlewomen wife of a friend. They conceive a child who calls Ambrose ‘Uncle.’ Daniel goes regularly to a fleshpot club for orgies. And this is supposed to be their love story!! I checked out and skimmed read after these plot lines appeared. Before then, I liked the MCs and I liked the familial side characters. The writing draws you into their lives and I had anticipation for Daniel and Ambrose, both very attractive men, to get together and work something out. Instead, I got five long years of not even a kiss. And, got to read their sex scenes with others. Which, maddeningly enough, were very hot!
When the two men finally get together on another continent, it was anticlimactic. The way too long drawing out of this non-relationship was story dampening, if not ruining.
A disappointing and very frustrating read.
Such a frustrating read! The story starts in the present and then quickly jumps to the past and continues on for five years to align with the present again. The frustration was for Daniel and Ambrose, the two MCs, to have feelings from their first meeting which only Daniel expresses and Ambrose continually shuts down to cover up his longing. The two men are a member of the English nobility and the estate manager. For five long years their frustration drags on, and mine. Yes, it was a time, the 1860’s, when it could not be lived, but it could be discreetly acted upon.
They didn’t stay horny for five years. Ambrose is having a monthly and years long affair with a spurned gentlewomen wife of a friend. They conceive a child who calls Ambrose ‘Uncle.’ Daniel goes regularly to a fleshpot club for orgies. And this is supposed to be their love story!! I checked out and skimmed read after these plot lines appeared. Before then, I liked the MCs and I liked the familial side characters. The writing draws you into their lives and I had anticipation for Daniel and Ambrose, both very attractive men, to get together and work something out. Instead, I got five long years of not even a kiss. And, got to read their sex scenes with others. Which, maddeningly enough, were very hot!
When the two men finally get together on another continent, it was anticlimactic. The way too long drawing out of this non-relationship was story dampening, if not ruining.
A disappointing and very frustrating read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2024
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is a slow burn, MM Victorian era love story that occurs concurrent to the last couple of books in the series. This one was a bit of a sad love story and I wondered if the author purposefully published it at the end of Pride month because it felt apropos, emphasizing perhaps how far some parts of our Society has come in terms of sexuality and acceptance of love being expressed between different genders. This story was bittersweet because of the constrants and social expectations of the time limiting Ambrose and Daniel, and their relationship, and that was core to the conflict and development of their relationship.
Daniel was clear from the beginning of meeting Ambrose, about his desire and passion, despite having had many liaisons with women, for the estate manager, and open with Ambrose. But Ambrose, despite secretly sharing that attraction, is much more aware of how society would regard sodomites and had much more in terms to lose if he lost his reputation in such a way, so he made sure to shut down Daniel's advances. But they are still forced to spend time together and to have a professional relationship, when Daniel inherits the viscountcy and stays in England to manage the estates and help oversee some of his remaining relations. Despite the rejection, Daniel still has strong feelings for Ambrose, beyond attraction, and works hard to show his esteem and friendship. He thinks his feelings are one sided and unrequited and he may be doomed to suffer that indefinitely, especially when it appears that Ambrose may be in a relationship with someone else.
This is a bittersweet story as Daniel and Ambrose navigate their feelings for each other and their own internal conflicts, and things come to a head when Daniel feels that Ambrose lied and betrayed his trust. This is, if you read the last book, Daniel returns to America, with his family, to reunite with Benedict, who has returned from the Civil War. Ambrose and Daniels story continues, when Ambrose follows his sister as her love story with Benedict culminates, with his help, and they all end up travelling back to Ohio together.
This does end with an HEA, but as I said, it is bittersweet, because their love is limited by societal strictures of the time.
A love story that ultimately made me think on some of the past struggles of the LGBTQ members of our society, and how the world is not fair to those who love differently.
True love is precious, valuable, and should be cherished and celebrated - and anyone who finds it is lucky beyond compare, no matter who they find it with.
4 stars out of 5
This is a slow burn, MM Victorian era love story that occurs concurrent to the last couple of books in the series. This one was a bit of a sad love story and I wondered if the author purposefully published it at the end of Pride month because it felt apropos, emphasizing perhaps how far some parts of our Society has come in terms of sexuality and acceptance of love being expressed between different genders. This story was bittersweet because of the constrants and social expectations of the time limiting Ambrose and Daniel, and their relationship, and that was core to the conflict and development of their relationship.
Daniel was clear from the beginning of meeting Ambrose, about his desire and passion, despite having had many liaisons with women, for the estate manager, and open with Ambrose. But Ambrose, despite secretly sharing that attraction, is much more aware of how society would regard sodomites and had much more in terms to lose if he lost his reputation in such a way, so he made sure to shut down Daniel's advances. But they are still forced to spend time together and to have a professional relationship, when Daniel inherits the viscountcy and stays in England to manage the estates and help oversee some of his remaining relations. Despite the rejection, Daniel still has strong feelings for Ambrose, beyond attraction, and works hard to show his esteem and friendship. He thinks his feelings are one sided and unrequited and he may be doomed to suffer that indefinitely, especially when it appears that Ambrose may be in a relationship with someone else.
This is a bittersweet story as Daniel and Ambrose navigate their feelings for each other and their own internal conflicts, and things come to a head when Daniel feels that Ambrose lied and betrayed his trust. This is, if you read the last book, Daniel returns to America, with his family, to reunite with Benedict, who has returned from the Civil War. Ambrose and Daniels story continues, when Ambrose follows his sister as her love story with Benedict culminates, with his help, and they all end up travelling back to Ohio together.
This does end with an HEA, but as I said, it is bittersweet, because their love is limited by societal strictures of the time.
A love story that ultimately made me think on some of the past struggles of the LGBTQ members of our society, and how the world is not fair to those who love differently.
True love is precious, valuable, and should be cherished and celebrated - and anyone who finds it is lucky beyond compare, no matter who they find it with.
4 stars out of 5
July 22, 2024
I had never read this author prior to this series but I saw the cover from Book 1, liked it and thought I check her out. A book cover always catches my eye first. :) She only has 8 books total and only 4 in my genre. I have really enjoyed this series.
This book was okay. It was a bit boring. I liked Daniel and Ambrose, they just really had no story line. I was reading it and in my head I was saying blah, blah, blah. It was weird. I liked the families and his sister but there was just no excitement. They were even boring as a couple.
This book was okay. It was a bit boring. I liked Daniel and Ambrose, they just really had no story line. I was reading it and in my head I was saying blah, blah, blah. It was weird. I liked the families and his sister but there was just no excitement. They were even boring as a couple.
June 17, 2024
The title is very appropriate for this story. Two men, Ambrose and Daniel living in a time when men were not able to openly love each other. I enjoyed the story and the two strong men who are front and center in it. I would have been much happier if they had not danced around and denied each other for so many years. I would have preferred the last two chapters would have started somewhere near the middle of the story. That being said, it is a good story worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2024
The fourth and final book in the Stanton Legacy series was my first foray into MM romance. The series is set in the Victorian era. I enjoyed reading this book very much. It was a slow burn romance with lots of angst and tension. This book overlaps the second and third book in some places but as the books follow the love story of different characters in the Stanton family they are written with a different perspective, so read well as standalone stories but the whole series has been a joy to read.
There is class difference between the two main characters, Daniel and Ambrose in an era where the two classes rarely mix and same sex relationships are not acceptable.
Daniel is the new Viscount of Stanton. He grew up in America, without the airs and graces of the English aristocracy that his father Frank and brother Jasper rejected years ago when they moved to America to start a new life. He is outgoing and forward and strives to get what he wants without any hesitation.
Ambrose is the estate manager of the Stanton estate, employed by Daniel’s grandfather who passes away at the beginning of the book. He lives nearby with his sister, who is a spinster. He lives a quiet life and is a private person.
When the two first meet, there is an instant attraction for both of them. Daniel is forthright and tells Ambrose his feelings for him, Ambrose feels the same way but he can’t admit it and tells him that they can’t ever be together. Daniel proposes that they be friends with the hope things might change.
Years pass by with the attraction between the two men still as strong as ever but neither acting on it, until an emotional event causes them to finally bring their love to the surface.
They then have to find a way to make their relationship work in a time where they would not be accepted by their community if they were found out.
The book finishes with a lovely epilogue.
I feel that Ms Wakeford wrote this story with real sensitivity and with a sense of reality of the time. There is open door steam in the storyline between Ambrose and a woman, who he has been seeing for years but they only have a night together once a month and Daniel with various women when he is in London. The steamy scenes between Daniel and Ambrose are well written. As with the previous books there are other storylines within this book that enhances the story of the main characters rather than distracts from it.
She wrote the series with great detail and depth. I have loved this whole series. All of the characters, main and secondary have been so enjoyable to read about. I’m sorry that this series has ended. I was hoping to find out what happened to the other adult children of Frank and Jasper. There was a hint that there will be a novella on one of the adult children in the future that I’m looking forward to.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves reading well written, open door steamy books with lots of interesting characters with side stories and a happily ever after for Daniel and Ambrose.
I received a special copy from Bookfunnel. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
There is class difference between the two main characters, Daniel and Ambrose in an era where the two classes rarely mix and same sex relationships are not acceptable.
Daniel is the new Viscount of Stanton. He grew up in America, without the airs and graces of the English aristocracy that his father Frank and brother Jasper rejected years ago when they moved to America to start a new life. He is outgoing and forward and strives to get what he wants without any hesitation.
Ambrose is the estate manager of the Stanton estate, employed by Daniel’s grandfather who passes away at the beginning of the book. He lives nearby with his sister, who is a spinster. He lives a quiet life and is a private person.
When the two first meet, there is an instant attraction for both of them. Daniel is forthright and tells Ambrose his feelings for him, Ambrose feels the same way but he can’t admit it and tells him that they can’t ever be together. Daniel proposes that they be friends with the hope things might change.
Years pass by with the attraction between the two men still as strong as ever but neither acting on it, until an emotional event causes them to finally bring their love to the surface.
They then have to find a way to make their relationship work in a time where they would not be accepted by their community if they were found out.
The book finishes with a lovely epilogue.
I feel that Ms Wakeford wrote this story with real sensitivity and with a sense of reality of the time. There is open door steam in the storyline between Ambrose and a woman, who he has been seeing for years but they only have a night together once a month and Daniel with various women when he is in London. The steamy scenes between Daniel and Ambrose are well written. As with the previous books there are other storylines within this book that enhances the story of the main characters rather than distracts from it.
She wrote the series with great detail and depth. I have loved this whole series. All of the characters, main and secondary have been so enjoyable to read about. I’m sorry that this series has ended. I was hoping to find out what happened to the other adult children of Frank and Jasper. There was a hint that there will be a novella on one of the adult children in the future that I’m looking forward to.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves reading well written, open door steamy books with lots of interesting characters with side stories and a happily ever after for Daniel and Ambrose.
I received a special copy from Bookfunnel. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
June 30, 2024
The Story of Ambrose and Daniel
“The Viscount’s Forbidden Love” written by M.M. Wakeford, is book four of The Stanton Legacy series. The Viscount is Daniel Stanton, newly titled noble who grew up across the Atlantic in the state of Ohio, in America. Daniel’s parents fled there after a falling out with Daniel’s grandfather, the current Earl. The Stanton clan returned to England on the old Earl’s deathbed for a final goodbye and forgiveness. Daniel’s forbidden love, as the title states, is Ambrose Cranshaw, the hardworking, well regarded, yet tightly wound estate manager. Ambrose has worked hard for his position and his reputation. He is solely responsible for himself and his sister, and he will not step outside of the box he has placed himself in, not even for the handsome, alluring, forward Daniel Stanton. These two men are attracted to one another. While Daniel is outspoken in his desires and is tempted to make the first move, Ambrose buries his needs and desires and denies any attraction to Daniel. Both Daniel and Ambrose were well written, well thought out characters. Their personalities and motivations were understandable because of their respective upbringings. One of the taglines for this book was ‘slow burn’. That is an understatement. The pace of their relationship was as slow as molasses. Daniel and Ambrose finally agree to a friendship relationship but inside in their hearts and minds they had fallen in love, what they had for the other man was more than lust or wanting to satisfy a bodily need, but the love of a lifetime. This silent love affair went on for far too long in this story. The same reasons were played out over and over. I wanted to yell at these two to get on with it! Enough is enough! Have it out, have a heartfelt talk, just do something other than suffer in silence for the other man. Wakeford has created a good story with a good plot that fit into England’s gay history of the time but she dragged it out for too long and I as a reader was ready to set the book aside instead of finishing it because it was going nowhere. Some of the characters from the first three books make an appearance in this story reminding the reader of the multigenerational love stories in this family. Even though this is the last book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. This is also the only m/m story in the series which includes open door scenes between the two men along with m/f intimate scenes. As slow as the story moved, the ending seemed rushed as it tied back to the beginning of the book. An epilogue is included, set a number of years in the future trying to tie everything together in a nice neat bow. I struggled with trying to decide between three stars and four. I liked the characters, I liked the plot, what I didn’t like was the pacing, it was just too slow and drawn out bringing down the overall enjoyment of the entire story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“The Viscount’s Forbidden Love” written by M.M. Wakeford, is book four of The Stanton Legacy series. The Viscount is Daniel Stanton, newly titled noble who grew up across the Atlantic in the state of Ohio, in America. Daniel’s parents fled there after a falling out with Daniel’s grandfather, the current Earl. The Stanton clan returned to England on the old Earl’s deathbed for a final goodbye and forgiveness. Daniel’s forbidden love, as the title states, is Ambrose Cranshaw, the hardworking, well regarded, yet tightly wound estate manager. Ambrose has worked hard for his position and his reputation. He is solely responsible for himself and his sister, and he will not step outside of the box he has placed himself in, not even for the handsome, alluring, forward Daniel Stanton. These two men are attracted to one another. While Daniel is outspoken in his desires and is tempted to make the first move, Ambrose buries his needs and desires and denies any attraction to Daniel. Both Daniel and Ambrose were well written, well thought out characters. Their personalities and motivations were understandable because of their respective upbringings. One of the taglines for this book was ‘slow burn’. That is an understatement. The pace of their relationship was as slow as molasses. Daniel and Ambrose finally agree to a friendship relationship but inside in their hearts and minds they had fallen in love, what they had for the other man was more than lust or wanting to satisfy a bodily need, but the love of a lifetime. This silent love affair went on for far too long in this story. The same reasons were played out over and over. I wanted to yell at these two to get on with it! Enough is enough! Have it out, have a heartfelt talk, just do something other than suffer in silence for the other man. Wakeford has created a good story with a good plot that fit into England’s gay history of the time but she dragged it out for too long and I as a reader was ready to set the book aside instead of finishing it because it was going nowhere. Some of the characters from the first three books make an appearance in this story reminding the reader of the multigenerational love stories in this family. Even though this is the last book in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone. This is also the only m/m story in the series which includes open door scenes between the two men along with m/f intimate scenes. As slow as the story moved, the ending seemed rushed as it tied back to the beginning of the book. An epilogue is included, set a number of years in the future trying to tie everything together in a nice neat bow. I struggled with trying to decide between three stars and four. I liked the characters, I liked the plot, what I didn’t like was the pacing, it was just too slow and drawn out bringing down the overall enjoyment of the entire story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
July 1, 2024
A Compelling Forbidden Love Story
This was my first MM romance I’ve read and I was thrilled. The plot is very good and emotionally touching, with its forbidden love, boss-employee, class disparity and opposites attract tropes. Daniel and Ambrose’s slow-burn love story is full of repressed feelings, longing, jealousy and spice. I already knew the characters from the previous books and liked them very much. It was clear to me in the previous book that the two would become a couple, but I wondered how they could have a happy ending in times like these, when Daniel needed an heir to the earldom and love between two men was strictly forbidden and even prosecuted by law.
The attraction and tension between the two were palpable from the beginning and continued to build as the book progressed. I really loved how their relationship developed from business relationship to friends and confidants until they finally become lovers in spite of their fear of morality judgement.
Although the book can be read as a standalone, I don't recommend it as the story runs parallel and overlaps with the previous books. It's nice to see the same events from different perspectives.
I am very sad that this book is going to be the conclusion of this wonderful series.
Years ago, after the death of his grandfather Daniel, Viscount Stanton, stayed behind in England to run the estate he inherited while most of his family returned to their estates in America.
When he meets steward Ambrose Cranshaw for the first time, Daniel is immediately attracted to him. He usually has liaisons with women, and the intensity of his feelings takes him by surprise. Although Ambrose feels the same, he rejects Daniel's propositions and fights his own feelings and desires, knowing full well what could happen if he were to engage in an illicit affair with Daniel...
If you like emotionally gripping MM romance novels with a bittersweet happy ending against all odds, you’re sure to enjoy this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was my first MM romance I’ve read and I was thrilled. The plot is very good and emotionally touching, with its forbidden love, boss-employee, class disparity and opposites attract tropes. Daniel and Ambrose’s slow-burn love story is full of repressed feelings, longing, jealousy and spice. I already knew the characters from the previous books and liked them very much. It was clear to me in the previous book that the two would become a couple, but I wondered how they could have a happy ending in times like these, when Daniel needed an heir to the earldom and love between two men was strictly forbidden and even prosecuted by law.
The attraction and tension between the two were palpable from the beginning and continued to build as the book progressed. I really loved how their relationship developed from business relationship to friends and confidants until they finally become lovers in spite of their fear of morality judgement.
Although the book can be read as a standalone, I don't recommend it as the story runs parallel and overlaps with the previous books. It's nice to see the same events from different perspectives.
I am very sad that this book is going to be the conclusion of this wonderful series.
Years ago, after the death of his grandfather Daniel, Viscount Stanton, stayed behind in England to run the estate he inherited while most of his family returned to their estates in America.
When he meets steward Ambrose Cranshaw for the first time, Daniel is immediately attracted to him. He usually has liaisons with women, and the intensity of his feelings takes him by surprise. Although Ambrose feels the same, he rejects Daniel's propositions and fights his own feelings and desires, knowing full well what could happen if he were to engage in an illicit affair with Daniel...
If you like emotionally gripping MM romance novels with a bittersweet happy ending against all odds, you’re sure to enjoy this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 20, 2024
Throughout the eighteenth century and up until 1861, many sexual acts between men were punishable by death. The last executions in England took place in 1835 and this story begins in 1860.
It’s a bittersweet romance between Ambrose Cranshaw, competent manager of the vast Stanton estate, and newly inherited Viscount, Daniel Stanton. Thrown together by necessity, these two feel a little spark for each other right away. But they are at VERY different stages of acceptance – Daniel is much more open about his desire for Ambrose, whereas Ambrose is playing an extremely long game of abject denial. They settle into a semi-comfortable friendship as the years slip by.
This was my first M/M romance and it was very interesting to read about their experience during this time period; when people were forced to either to live secretly, behind closed doors, unable to acknowledge their relationships openly or who chose to reject it entirely, unwilling to take on the societal disapproval and very real threat of imprisonment. Not much of a choice really. And in this story we get two sides of this many-faceted experience – the acceptance of feelings with the inability to explore them, and an attempt to live a life that is not true to your authentic self. It really made me feel for both Daniel and Ambrose.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It’s a bittersweet romance between Ambrose Cranshaw, competent manager of the vast Stanton estate, and newly inherited Viscount, Daniel Stanton. Thrown together by necessity, these two feel a little spark for each other right away. But they are at VERY different stages of acceptance – Daniel is much more open about his desire for Ambrose, whereas Ambrose is playing an extremely long game of abject denial. They settle into a semi-comfortable friendship as the years slip by.
This was my first M/M romance and it was very interesting to read about their experience during this time period; when people were forced to either to live secretly, behind closed doors, unable to acknowledge their relationships openly or who chose to reject it entirely, unwilling to take on the societal disapproval and very real threat of imprisonment. Not much of a choice really. And in this story we get two sides of this many-faceted experience – the acceptance of feelings with the inability to explore them, and an attempt to live a life that is not true to your authentic self. It really made me feel for both Daniel and Ambrose.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2024
What a finish for this exhilarating series. Extremely well written, full of love, sadness, action, worry, steamy, society, drama, twists and turns. So much hard times to deal with due to society rules. Loved how this storytelling author is able to weave the lives and times of this family. Added into this story is some great history. Daniel is the Grandson and Son of a very powerful English family. He is of four to inherit an English estate and title while the others are also give property. It's very hard to adjust to when Daniel has had free run in Ohio, where he was born and raised. He stays but some of his family return home to the American homestead. Ambrose is the one he loves but knows he really can't due to the rules placed on him. Ambrose has worked for the estate and is the son of the clergy, so he knows that it for be forbidden for him to feel for Daniel. Has lots of great returning family members from the earlier books in this series. Can't wait for more by this fabulous author, Curl up and enjoy this book and the rest of the series, you will not be sorry. Would strongly recommend to everyone.
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.
January 10, 2026
Earl Stanton is not well and his estranged sons have returned from America with their families to reconcile their differences. Ambrose, the estate manager is hopeful that when the title passes to the eldest son he'll be kept on. For now though he has to deal with Daniel, the Earl's nephew. Daniel has taken an interest in Ambrose and the estate. The Earl's sons have estates in America. When the Earl passes he leaves the English Estate to his grandchildren, primarily Daniel the new Viscount. Ambrose does everything possible to resist Daniel's advances. One moment of weakness and one kiss could undo everything. This is a slow burn romance set in Victorian England when same-sex relationships could ruin your life. Ambrose can't see a way that he can acknowledge his feelings for Daniel without consequences. Daniel wants nothing more, damn the consequences.
July 11, 2024
A well-written book which I enjoyed reading. I really liked Daniel, who is brave, generous and straightforward. Less so Ambrose, but I could understand where he was coming from. His social standing could easily explain his caution and stubbornness. There is also a cast of likable secondary characters.
I usually prefer aristocrats behaving according to their station (one reason I read historicals), but this doesn't happen here, with Daniel and his siblings being brought up in America. I also prefer some more danger and intrigue and in this one the only obstacle is Ambrose's fear. This being said, I was invested in the book and it took me just four sittings to finish it and it says a lot that I enjoyed it even though it's not exactly my cuppa. I would read this author again.
I usually prefer aristocrats behaving according to their station (one reason I read historicals), but this doesn't happen here, with Daniel and his siblings being brought up in America. I also prefer some more danger and intrigue and in this one the only obstacle is Ambrose's fear. This being said, I was invested in the book and it took me just four sittings to finish it and it says a lot that I enjoyed it even though it's not exactly my cuppa. I would read this author again.
June 23, 2024
The moving slow burn, love at first sight MM romance between Daniel, a viscount, and Ambrose, the estate manager he inherited from his grandfather.
This story depicts the close, sometimes fraught, friendship between these two men over a period of several years. It’s not an easy romance, lots of ups and downs. They both fell hard and fast upon their first introduction, but where American born and raised Dainiel is a passionate man ruled by his heart and openly declares himself, vicar’s son Ambrose is more restraint and represses his desire for Daniel. There’s jealousy, frustration and pent-up feelings, but most of all there’s unconditional loyalty even when they don’t always see eye to eye. It takes an emotional breakdown and an ocean between them to finally give in.
This is a compelling and emotional journey: watching these men finding themselves, each other and finally a way to navigate a world that won’t accept them and their love. Their feelings for each other never waver, and there’s some really tantalising spicy intimacy near the end of the story.
I also really enjoyed the dynamic between Daniel, Ambrose, Lexie and Emily - Ambrose’s mistress and daughter - there just was something very ‘Two Men and a Baby’ about it that warmed my heart.
A beautiful romance and a fitting end to this original series!
This story depicts the close, sometimes fraught, friendship between these two men over a period of several years. It’s not an easy romance, lots of ups and downs. They both fell hard and fast upon their first introduction, but where American born and raised Dainiel is a passionate man ruled by his heart and openly declares himself, vicar’s son Ambrose is more restraint and represses his desire for Daniel. There’s jealousy, frustration and pent-up feelings, but most of all there’s unconditional loyalty even when they don’t always see eye to eye. It takes an emotional breakdown and an ocean between them to finally give in.
This is a compelling and emotional journey: watching these men finding themselves, each other and finally a way to navigate a world that won’t accept them and their love. Their feelings for each other never waver, and there’s some really tantalising spicy intimacy near the end of the story.
I also really enjoyed the dynamic between Daniel, Ambrose, Lexie and Emily - Ambrose’s mistress and daughter - there just was something very ‘Two Men and a Baby’ about it that warmed my heart.
A beautiful romance and a fitting end to this original series!
August 31, 2025
This was, unfortunately, not good. I can understand a slow burn, but this was all slow with little burn. Two characters where one constantly declares love while the other is also in 'love' but just decides not to say it. In fact, that guy acts borderline repulsed by the idea of being involved in any way, shape, or form with the lovesick one.
It was tiring to read over and over, 'I love you, but I know you want nothing to do with me,' while the other one would agree, then jerk off in private. like c'mon, man. Just act on your palpable desires.
It wasn't until, maybe, the last 10 pages that anything solid happened between the two.
I was left unsatisfied and, frankly, bored outta my mind.
It was tiring to read over and over, 'I love you, but I know you want nothing to do with me,' while the other one would agree, then jerk off in private. like c'mon, man. Just act on your palpable desires.
It wasn't until, maybe, the last 10 pages that anything solid happened between the two.
I was left unsatisfied and, frankly, bored outta my mind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2024
This was a painful book to read with lots of angst though well written. Daniel from America becomes a Lord at his Grandfather's death but falls for his estate manager Ambrose during Victorian England. The love can never be recognized though it is confessed to Ambrose so a friendship is formed. For Daniel to watch the changes in Ambrose's life is agonizing and the angst is palpable. Their love must always be hidden away. I received a copy of this book through Book sprout and this is my voluntary opinion.
June 29, 2024
This historical MM romance between Daniel and Ambrose, It was interesting reading about a gay relationship at a time when it was not accepted. Very angsty, and I love angst. This was emotional in so many ways, and both handled their feelings differently. With lots of differences, it is hard to figure it out. Well written, as usual. I enjoy this author's writing and am always interested in reading more from them. It really was a beautiful story of forbidden love. I also enjoyed the side characters.
July 31, 2024
Very very slow burn
I mean I know it’s historical so the slow burn for an MM romance is sort of implied as historically being in a MM relationship was frowned upon (to say the least, obviously) but man. this was the slowest of slows of slows. and Daniel. Holy moly. He is so frickin’ forward and just in your face and Ambrose rightfully is like back off - wtf?
Daniel really needed to slow his horses, get over himself and stop forgetting he lived in the wrong time period. LOL I had a lot of feelings while reading this book. Which is sort of the goal in a way - getting an emotional reaction from a reader- I just was frustrated for so long throughout reading this that by the time there was any pay off I was just like, ugh. Okay.
This book was not for me (I would put it more at a 2.5) but it was well written and everything. Just exhausting to go through LOL.
I mean I know it’s historical so the slow burn for an MM romance is sort of implied as historically being in a MM relationship was frowned upon (to say the least, obviously) but man. this was the slowest of slows of slows. and Daniel. Holy moly. He is so frickin’ forward and just in your face and Ambrose rightfully is like back off - wtf?
Daniel really needed to slow his horses, get over himself and stop forgetting he lived in the wrong time period. LOL I had a lot of feelings while reading this book. Which is sort of the goal in a way - getting an emotional reaction from a reader- I just was frustrated for so long throughout reading this that by the time there was any pay off I was just like, ugh. Okay.
This book was not for me (I would put it more at a 2.5) but it was well written and everything. Just exhausting to go through LOL.
July 3, 2024
The fourth and concluding novel in the Stanton Legacy series. Daniel Stanton and Ambrose Cranshaw's M/M story is engaging with well written characters and a great storyline. I enjoyed reading their story and seeing them get their happy ending, a great story to end the series on.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 18, 2024
Two men in love, one come from English nobility and the other works for him as estate manager. One has no fear to love but the other is afraid because of what he could lose, his job and the means to support his sister. The characters were interesting and complex. I really enjoyed this book.
January 30, 2025
First book by this author. Interesting to read more stories of m/m love during this period. Not an easy time to cover up who you love when punishment was so severe. I wish they would have found a way earlier as so much shared time was wasted.
April 19, 2026
I love books/movies/shows set in this era and time period so I was looking forward to this one. It ended up being fine. It’s soooo much longing and denial of feelings that after a while I got bored. There isn’t enough plot to keep it interesting and little to no spice to entertain.
July 2, 2024
I enjoyed this well written story of forbidden love. The characters were complicated yet delightful. I enjoyed the romance and steam, but most of all, the happy ending. I recommend reading!
November 19, 2024
DNF 53% would have preferred to know that main character will have intercourse with female side character in the middle of the developing romance…
January 2, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyable series, even the novellas.
January 8, 2026
horrid
That was the most depressing book I think I have ever read. True to the times, yes, but unbelievably heartbreaking and not at all a grand romance. I hated it.
That was the most depressing book I think I have ever read. True to the times, yes, but unbelievably heartbreaking and not at all a grand romance. I hated it.
June 4, 2026
Dei tres estrelas...podia ser mais profundo e belo.
As personagens são boas e interessantes.
As personagens são boas e interessantes.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews