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A Gentleman's Gentleman
From the acclaimed author of Chef's Kiss, a groundbreaking trans Regency romance that's both delightfully witty and refreshingly iconoclastic.
The notoriously eccentric Lord Christopher Eden is a “man of unusual make” and even more unusual habits: he prefers to live as far from the prying eyes and ears of the ton as possible, and would rather have the comfortable company of his childhood cook and his aged butler, Plinkton, than the swarm of servants and hangers-on befitting a man of his station.
But Christopher's pleasant, if occasionally lonely life is upended when he receives word from his lawyers that, according to his late father’s will, he must find a wife by the end of the Season if he intends to keep his family's fortune and the Eden's End estate. Christopher cannot imagine a worse fate: as he isn't attracted to women, his chances of making a wife happy are slim. Furthermore, if his quest to marry has any hope of succeeding, he must move to London posthaste and acquire some more suitable staff.
Enter James Harding, Christopher's new, distractingly handsome—if rigidly traditional—valet. After a rocky start, the two strike up a fragile friendship amid the throes of the London Season . . . a friendship that threatens to shatter under the looming shadow of Christopher’s impending nuptials—and the secrets both men are keeping.
With its heady combination of dry wit, slow-burn romance, and a nuanced, complex portrait of trans identity and relationships that’s as relevant now as it was during the Regency era, A Gentleman's Gentleman stands to transform the historical romance genre as we know it.
The notoriously eccentric Lord Christopher Eden is a “man of unusual make” and even more unusual habits: he prefers to live as far from the prying eyes and ears of the ton as possible, and would rather have the comfortable company of his childhood cook and his aged butler, Plinkton, than the swarm of servants and hangers-on befitting a man of his station.
But Christopher's pleasant, if occasionally lonely life is upended when he receives word from his lawyers that, according to his late father’s will, he must find a wife by the end of the Season if he intends to keep his family's fortune and the Eden's End estate. Christopher cannot imagine a worse fate: as he isn't attracted to women, his chances of making a wife happy are slim. Furthermore, if his quest to marry has any hope of succeeding, he must move to London posthaste and acquire some more suitable staff.
Enter James Harding, Christopher's new, distractingly handsome—if rigidly traditional—valet. After a rocky start, the two strike up a fragile friendship amid the throes of the London Season . . . a friendship that threatens to shatter under the looming shadow of Christopher’s impending nuptials—and the secrets both men are keeping.
With its heady combination of dry wit, slow-burn romance, and a nuanced, complex portrait of trans identity and relationships that’s as relevant now as it was during the Regency era, A Gentleman's Gentleman stands to transform the historical romance genre as we know it.
336 pages, Paperback
First published March 11, 2025
155 people are currently reading
18468 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Alexander
6 books883 followersTJ Alexander is an amateur baker and author who writes about queer love. Originally from Florida, they received their MA in writing and publishing from Emerson College in Boston. They live in New York City with their wife and various houseplants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 895 reviews
March 21, 2025
This was so good!! If you're looking for a slow-burn historical romance with trans characters, you should absolutely pick up A Gentleman's Gentleman.
A trans nobleman must find a wife before he turns 25 in order to keep his title. While he prefers to dress himself, he decides to hire a valet for the sake of appearances. But the handsome young man is far more than Christopher bargained for and he can't help his instant attraction...
I wasn't sure how this was going to handle the power dynamics of a master/servant relationship, but without spoiling things the author manages to make it work beautifully. Part of why this ends up working is that they only get together towards the end of the book for plot reasons. But the buildup is great. I love to see stories like this highlighting the very real existence of trans people throughout history! There are a few references to the recorded history we have of how they lived, sometimes as a sort of open secret. A lovely and very sweet romance. I hope TJ Alexander writes more historicals! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
A trans nobleman must find a wife before he turns 25 in order to keep his title. While he prefers to dress himself, he decides to hire a valet for the sake of appearances. But the handsome young man is far more than Christopher bargained for and he can't help his instant attraction...
I wasn't sure how this was going to handle the power dynamics of a master/servant relationship, but without spoiling things the author manages to make it work beautifully. Part of why this ends up working is that they only get together towards the end of the book for plot reasons. But the buildup is great. I love to see stories like this highlighting the very real existence of trans people throughout history! There are a few references to the recorded history we have of how they lived, sometimes as a sort of open secret. A lovely and very sweet romance. I hope TJ Alexander writes more historicals! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
November 19, 2024
Full blurb to come, but I loved this to the depths of my queer histrom-loving soul
June 12, 2025
This was my first historical romance without any fantasy elements. Finally. Yay me!
And I'm very happy that it was such a wonderful story.
Christopher is a fascinating character, and I was completely absorbed in his story from page one.
I really like how the focus of the story is entirely on him and how the plot is a bit slow and more in the background. And all that without endless inner monologues. You really shouldn't expect too much of a plot, but there is an exciting carriage chase through London that I found very amusing. Otherwise, though, the entertainment value is probably rather low.
But I really like how everything develops very slowly.
The way Harding and Christopher finally get closer at the very end.
So, without any experience with books like this and unable to properly assess the historical aspect, it felt really perfect. I think I've now developed a fascination with trans identity in history. And the part of my brain that's totally into research feels tickled.
Retiring to his room with a glass of brandy was one of Christopher’s favorite things to do. He held the glass beneath the circle of his fingertips and in his other hand carried a book. It was Ovid, in the original Latin, and Christopher was eager to dive into it. He had always had a knack for languages, and poetry was a true weakness of his. 🩵🤩🩵
Christopher stood there like a marble statue in the middle of his dressing room, wondering if allowing this untruth counted as a lie. It seemed a smaller sin than the alternative, which was to turn in the circle of Harding’s arms and inform him that any shivers he was exhibiting were due wholly to Harding himself. 🫠💞🫠
And I'm very happy that it was such a wonderful story.
Christopher is a fascinating character, and I was completely absorbed in his story from page one.
I really like how the focus of the story is entirely on him and how the plot is a bit slow and more in the background. And all that without endless inner monologues. You really shouldn't expect too much of a plot, but there is an exciting carriage chase through London that I found very amusing. Otherwise, though, the entertainment value is probably rather low.
But I really like how everything develops very slowly.
The way Harding and Christopher finally get closer at the very end.
So, without any experience with books like this and unable to properly assess the historical aspect, it felt really perfect. I think I've now developed a fascination with trans identity in history. And the part of my brain that's totally into research feels tickled.
Retiring to his room with a glass of brandy was one of Christopher’s favorite things to do. He held the glass beneath the circle of his fingertips and in his other hand carried a book. It was Ovid, in the original Latin, and Christopher was eager to dive into it. He had always had a knack for languages, and poetry was a true weakness of his. 🩵🤩🩵
Christopher stood there like a marble statue in the middle of his dressing room, wondering if allowing this untruth counted as a lie. It seemed a smaller sin than the alternative, which was to turn in the circle of Harding’s arms and inform him that any shivers he was exhibiting were due wholly to Harding himself. 🫠💞🫠
March 11, 2025
“I’m not permitted to dress you; I’m not permitted to undress you,” Harding murmured. His lips brushed against Christopher’s in not quite a kiss. “What am I permitted to do, my lord?”
it’s not a bad book and it reads quite nicely, i just don’t think it’s memorable at all. the characters fall kinda flat, the plot doesn’t inspire much excitement, and the love story is only there because it’s a romance book.
i do love me my trans regency and i wish there was more of it so i‘m glad this exists and that i could read it but i would also love to feel more than just an eh-*shrugs*
it’s not a bad book and it reads quite nicely, i just don’t think it’s memorable at all. the characters fall kinda flat, the plot doesn’t inspire much excitement, and the love story is only there because it’s a romance book.
i do love me my trans regency and i wish there was more of it so i‘m glad this exists and that i could read it but i would also love to feel more than just an eh-*shrugs*
June 25, 2025
This was so good!! A historical trans romance set between a lord and his valet. I've read TJ Alexander before and while I liked his book, it was more on the 3 stars "eh" rating so I went into this one with low expectations. I had a blast reading it, this was such a fun book to read and was filled with little mysteries here and there. Both Christopher and Harding were such interesting characters (as were all the side characters) and I loved getting to know them both. Very excited for the next book in the series, which doesn't release for a hot minute at this point but I am sure I'll devour it eventually.
2025 Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo categories hit: Haunted House and Character Smells Like Leather
2025 Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo categories hit: Haunted House and Character Smells Like Leather
November 16, 2025
Reading A GENTLEMAN'S GENTLEMAN was like falling in love with my first historical romance all over again. The writing style reminded me a lot of those classic late-90s regency authors, like Loretta Chase or Julia Quinn, but the sweet trans for trans romance and the focus on queerness versus convention really gave this a fresh, engaging, emotional feel that left me wanting so much more.
Christopher is my favorite kind of hero: he's kind of a stuffed shirt but he's also tongue-in-cheek about how he flouts convention. His tension with his uptight and by-the-book valet, Harding, was delightful. I've read this dynamic in a lot of MF romances and always love it (I call it the governess x duke of slut trope) and I loved it in this MM romance, too. Especially since neither of them fully fit the stereotype.
It looks like there's going to be more books in this series (the next one appears to be sapphic) and I seriously cannot wait. I'm going to have to check out the author's backlist because I love their writing style!
5 stars
Christopher is my favorite kind of hero: he's kind of a stuffed shirt but he's also tongue-in-cheek about how he flouts convention. His tension with his uptight and by-the-book valet, Harding, was delightful. I've read this dynamic in a lot of MF romances and always love it (I call it the governess x duke of slut trope) and I loved it in this MM romance, too. Especially since neither of them fully fit the stereotype.
It looks like there's going to be more books in this series (the next one appears to be sapphic) and I seriously cannot wait. I'm going to have to check out the author's backlist because I love their writing style!
5 stars
October 4, 2024
Well, that was a waste of time. I would've probably DNF'ed this book if it hadn't been a buddy read.
I love queer histroms, and I was super excited for one with trans rep. Sadly, I didn't vibe with it.
There was an incredibly slow start, then a rushed ending. No chemistry between the leads, LOTS of miscommunication that had me groaning in frustration, and just lots of dumb and hard to believe choices made. This one wasn't for me.
I read an eARC from Vintage Books.
I love queer histroms, and I was super excited for one with trans rep. Sadly, I didn't vibe with it.
There was an incredibly slow start, then a rushed ending. No chemistry between the leads, LOTS of miscommunication that had me groaning in frustration, and just lots of dumb and hard to believe choices made. This one wasn't for me.
I read an eARC from Vintage Books.
March 9, 2025
So damn gorgeous.
What a delightful, wonderful tale of trans joy. I LOVED this book to absolute bits.
It made me laugh out loud, swoon a dozen times, cackle and sigh and even cry my eyes out. What a delightful gem this book is!
I feel like I need to read the rest of TJ Alexander's backlist because wow: they sure can write. This book had me feeling every single damn emotion on the planet.
Christopher was a fabulous protagonist. He's resilient, a survivor through and through, but despite the rough hand he's been dealt with, and despite his past, he never looses his smile, his kindness nor his joy. I adored being in his head. He's silly and gentle and kind: simply put, wonderful.
< Christopher had lived. He lived still. The very fact that he breathed was a miracle. He had not survived merely to suffer; he was certain of that now. For the first time in his life, he was certain. >
< "[...] Thank you, Harding, for finding me a suitable wife.” And for sticking your fingers in my mouth, went unsaid, though the sentiment was there. Christopher wished he could broach the subject, but it felt like one of those things that men shouldn’t speak of aloud. >
And James Harding! UGH. That man!!!!!! He made me SWOON. Stoic, quietly snarky, competent, protective Harding. No wonder Christopher fell for him almost immediately: I would have too. Those two together stole my freaking heart, and I literally spent the last few chapters simultaneously crying my eyes out and giggling like mad. And that final chapter! God, never have I read such a satisfying ending. It made me heart soar.
I loved the plot and I loved all the side characters to absolutele bits too.
I cannot recommend this book enough! It's out in precisely two days time, and I'll be recommending it so much you'll be sick of me. A forbidden valet/lord romance, a slowly unfolding romance, all the pining and (barely hidden) attraction, PLUS some really wonderful trans rep that the world sorely needs nowadays? I wholly, wholly recommend.
What a delightful, fabulous romance.
Also. I'd have given this book five stars just for this scene alone:
< “I only wanted you to be quiet.” “So quiet me now,” Christopher said, and was gratified to find two deft fingers entering his greedy mouth. He moaned around them. “Seems to only make you louder,” James said with more than a trace of humor, “not that I mind.” >
*passes out*
PS: I love the American title and cover (it's very dreamy and romantic!) but my personal favourite is the UK version. I think I need to buy myself a physical copy! SUCH a fabulous cover and title. So fitting too!
TWs/CWs: death of a sibling, death of parents, panic attack (on page), death (on page, side character), body and gender dysphoria and period-typical transphobia.
Many thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.
What a delightful, wonderful tale of trans joy. I LOVED this book to absolute bits.
It made me laugh out loud, swoon a dozen times, cackle and sigh and even cry my eyes out. What a delightful gem this book is!
I feel like I need to read the rest of TJ Alexander's backlist because wow: they sure can write. This book had me feeling every single damn emotion on the planet.
Christopher was a fabulous protagonist. He's resilient, a survivor through and through, but despite the rough hand he's been dealt with, and despite his past, he never looses his smile, his kindness nor his joy. I adored being in his head. He's silly and gentle and kind: simply put, wonderful.
< Christopher had lived. He lived still. The very fact that he breathed was a miracle. He had not survived merely to suffer; he was certain of that now. For the first time in his life, he was certain. >
< "[...] Thank you, Harding, for finding me a suitable wife.” And for sticking your fingers in my mouth, went unsaid, though the sentiment was there. Christopher wished he could broach the subject, but it felt like one of those things that men shouldn’t speak of aloud. >
And James Harding! UGH. That man!!!!!! He made me SWOON. Stoic, quietly snarky, competent, protective Harding. No wonder Christopher fell for him almost immediately: I would have too. Those two together stole my freaking heart, and I literally spent the last few chapters simultaneously crying my eyes out and giggling like mad. And that final chapter! God, never have I read such a satisfying ending. It made me heart soar.
I loved the plot and I loved all the side characters to absolutele bits too.
I cannot recommend this book enough! It's out in precisely two days time, and I'll be recommending it so much you'll be sick of me. A forbidden valet/lord romance, a slowly unfolding romance, all the pining and (barely hidden) attraction, PLUS some really wonderful trans rep that the world sorely needs nowadays? I wholly, wholly recommend.
What a delightful, fabulous romance.
Also. I'd have given this book five stars just for this scene alone:
< “I only wanted you to be quiet.” “So quiet me now,” Christopher said, and was gratified to find two deft fingers entering his greedy mouth. He moaned around them. “Seems to only make you louder,” James said with more than a trace of humor, “not that I mind.” >
*passes out*
PS: I love the American title and cover (it's very dreamy and romantic!) but my personal favourite is the UK version. I think I need to buy myself a physical copy! SUCH a fabulous cover and title. So fitting too!
TWs/CWs: death of a sibling, death of parents, panic attack (on page), death (on page, side character), body and gender dysphoria and period-typical transphobia.
Many thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.
April 28, 2025
I hella loved this queer historical fiction set in the early 1800s. I was so juiced to grab a physical copy from my local library and paired it with the audiobook on Everand — honestly, the combo made the whole experience even better. Christopher, the main character, is hilarious, and the audiobook narrator brings him to life in such a real way. I caught myself laughing out loud more than a few times.
Christopher is sweet, funny, and genuinely relatable. I loved all his little quirks; the pastel wardrobe, obsession with fashion magazines, whiskey, riding his horse Orion, and his love for poetry. He felt like a real person, and I was rooting for him from the jump. 🫶🏾
One thing I thought was juicy was how, at the start, Christopher didn’t even want a valet. He was scared someone would figure out he was trans, especially since he dressed himself. (Honestly, it just made me want to root for his happiness even more.) It’s also kinda hinted that he might be a little asexual… until he meets Harding and catches feelings real quick. I was cracking up; he was not ready for that gorgeous man at alllllll. Aw, you dear fellow. 😂
The banter between Christopher, Cook, and Harding kept the whole story feeling easy and natural. I liked seeing how Christopher handled the pressure of being an Earl, trying to keep his family’s estate together, and dealing with his parents breathing down his neck from the dead with their will pressuring Christopher to get married before his 25th birthday.
However, what stayed with me the most was how much Queer joy the story carried. The moment when Christopher finds out Harding is trans, too? It was handled with so much softness and care. Watching them slowly build trust and love in a world that didn’t exactly make space for people like them just hit in all the right ways. It was beautiful reading when both Christopher and Harding realized that they must create happiness and a future on their own terms.
All in all, this was hella fun to read, and it’s definitely one I’m glad I picked up. 💕💋👍🏾
Christopher is sweet, funny, and genuinely relatable. I loved all his little quirks; the pastel wardrobe, obsession with fashion magazines, whiskey, riding his horse Orion, and his love for poetry. He felt like a real person, and I was rooting for him from the jump. 🫶🏾
One thing I thought was juicy was how, at the start, Christopher didn’t even want a valet. He was scared someone would figure out he was trans, especially since he dressed himself. (Honestly, it just made me want to root for his happiness even more.) It’s also kinda hinted that he might be a little asexual… until he meets Harding and catches feelings real quick. I was cracking up; he was not ready for that gorgeous man at alllllll. Aw, you dear fellow. 😂
The banter between Christopher, Cook, and Harding kept the whole story feeling easy and natural. I liked seeing how Christopher handled the pressure of being an Earl, trying to keep his family’s estate together, and dealing with his parents breathing down his neck from the dead with their will pressuring Christopher to get married before his 25th birthday.
However, what stayed with me the most was how much Queer joy the story carried. The moment when Christopher finds out Harding is trans, too? It was handled with so much softness and care. Watching them slowly build trust and love in a world that didn’t exactly make space for people like them just hit in all the right ways. It was beautiful reading when both Christopher and Harding realized that they must create happiness and a future on their own terms.
All in all, this was hella fun to read, and it’s definitely one I’m glad I picked up. 💕💋👍🏾
December 5, 2024
3.5⭐️ rounded up!
Review to come~
edit 12.4.24:
thank you to netgalley and knopf, pantheon, vintage, and anchor for a copy of my arc in exchange for my review!
oh y'all just know i'm a slut for a queer historical romance. a gentleman's gentleman follows lord christopher eden, a closeted trans man who has to marry by 25 (🤢) in order to maintain his title and estate. as a social recluse with little staff, he heads toward london to secure himself a wife and hires a valet to maintain appearances of normalcy.
enter james harding, the emo man of our dreams. the dry humor sent me into another dimension. i loved their casual banter, sarcasm, and overall chemistry. they were both adorably clueless in terms of their feelings for each other
however, the ending felt incredibly rushed to me, and (almost) nothing physical happened between christopher and james until *checks notes* 97% of the way through. i'm all for a slow burn, but that was like 0 to 100 and i suffered from the whiplash. i felt like their relationship had developed in such an organic way, only for it to climax (lol) at the very end of the book with only a short epilogue stating the aftermath
all in all, the story was lovely, and it's always a joy to read a queer book by a queer author. truly my only stipulations were with the fast-paced ending. i just love queer regency era shit *sighs dreamily*
Review to come~
edit 12.4.24:
thank you to netgalley and knopf, pantheon, vintage, and anchor for a copy of my arc in exchange for my review!
oh y'all just know i'm a slut for a queer historical romance. a gentleman's gentleman follows lord christopher eden, a closeted trans man who has to marry by 25 (🤢) in order to maintain his title and estate. as a social recluse with little staff, he heads toward london to secure himself a wife and hires a valet to maintain appearances of normalcy.
enter james harding, the emo man of our dreams. the dry humor sent me into another dimension. i loved their casual banter, sarcasm, and overall chemistry. they were both adorably clueless in terms of their feelings for each other
however, the ending felt incredibly rushed to me, and (almost) nothing physical happened between christopher and james until *checks notes* 97% of the way through. i'm all for a slow burn, but that was like 0 to 100 and i suffered from the whiplash. i felt like their relationship had developed in such an organic way, only for it to climax (lol) at the very end of the book with only a short epilogue stating the aftermath
all in all, the story was lovely, and it's always a joy to read a queer book by a queer author. truly my only stipulations were with the fast-paced ending. i just love queer regency era shit *sighs dreamily*
March 21, 2025
This was a heartfelt slow burn Trans for Trans historical romance that sees reclusive Lord Christopher Eden falling for his valet and all his plans to find a wife and save his family's estate go out the window in the face of true love.
Great on audio narrated by Harrison Knights, this had some surprise twists and is perfect for fans of authors like Cat Sebastian, Joanna Lowell or Alexis Hall.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Highly recommended for anyone participating in the Trans Rights Readathon from March 21-31st this year and a great pivot for a fav contemporary queer romance author of mine.
Great on audio narrated by Harrison Knights, this had some surprise twists and is perfect for fans of authors like Cat Sebastian, Joanna Lowell or Alexis Hall.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Highly recommended for anyone participating in the Trans Rights Readathon from March 21-31st this year and a great pivot for a fav contemporary queer romance author of mine.
June 7, 2025
2.5⭐
I was so excited going into this. A MM trans historical romance between an earl and his valet? Sign me up!
Unfortunately, this didn't really work for me. Based on the premise, I was expecting The Bachelor's Valet meets A Lady for a Duke, and those expectations ultimately lead to serious disappointment. I didn't connect with any of the characters, and the romance felt super underdeveloped.
I was so excited going into this. A MM trans historical romance between an earl and his valet? Sign me up!
Unfortunately, this didn't really work for me. Based on the premise, I was expecting The Bachelor's Valet meets A Lady for a Duke, and those expectations ultimately lead to serious disappointment. I didn't connect with any of the characters, and the romance felt super underdeveloped.
November 25, 2024
I hesitated to start reading A Gentleman’s Gentleman because I’d seen a few low ratings and even people DNF’ing it. But when I finally dared to pick it up, I actually liked the stilted and, at the same time, witty story. I flew through the pages (it’s a pretty short one) and amused myself.
But …
Yep, there is a but. Even though I liked it, I also believe that this story is underdeveloped. Christopher’s grief never came fully to the surface, and Harding (for a long time, I forgot his first name!) was pretty one-dimensional. Therefore, the chemistry was zero and I couldn’t really connect to Harding/James. So, I wanted more, much more. More witty dialogues, more depth in Harding’s character, more inside in Christopher’s grief. I wanted to see Christopher’s past as flashbacks, not as a rushed story being told in one chapter. This could have been a gem, but now it felt like a nice in-between to read snuggled up on the couch or lying on the beach. But that’s all.
Thank you, Vintage and NetGalley, for this ARC.
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But …
Yep, there is a but. Even though I liked it, I also believe that this story is underdeveloped. Christopher’s grief never came fully to the surface, and Harding (for a long time, I forgot his first name!) was pretty one-dimensional. Therefore, the chemistry was zero and I couldn’t really connect to Harding/James. So, I wanted more, much more. More witty dialogues, more depth in Harding’s character, more inside in Christopher’s grief. I wanted to see Christopher’s past as flashbacks, not as a rushed story being told in one chapter. This could have been a gem, but now it felt like a nice in-between to read snuggled up on the couch or lying on the beach. But that’s all.
Thank you, Vintage and NetGalley, for this ARC.
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March 1, 2025
Rating: 4.5/5
This plays with a very familiar set-up in historical romance - titled main character must marry by a specific birthday to secure inheritance - and beautifully subverts our expectations at each turn. Alexander's prose is so compelling and sharp and they have such a subtle humor I love (particularly in inner monologue). I really enjoyed the use of limited third person POV, because with only Christopher's perspective, we can really feel both his loneliness and his drive to survive to the best of his abilities. It also allows for some really enjoyable plot twists - one or two that are so obvious even our side characters have to poke fun at Christopher for not seeing them earlier (love a meta moment). I would caution readers that this is a slow, slow, SLOW burn, but it builds into a really fitting and lovely HEA.
This plays with a very familiar set-up in historical romance - titled main character must marry by a specific birthday to secure inheritance - and beautifully subverts our expectations at each turn. Alexander's prose is so compelling and sharp and they have such a subtle humor I love (particularly in inner monologue). I really enjoyed the use of limited third person POV, because with only Christopher's perspective, we can really feel both his loneliness and his drive to survive to the best of his abilities. It also allows for some really enjoyable plot twists - one or two that are so obvious even our side characters have to poke fun at Christopher for not seeing them earlier (love a meta moment). I would caution readers that this is a slow, slow, SLOW burn, but it builds into a really fitting and lovely HEA.
Want to read
August 1, 2024trans regency romance is all you had to say, who do i have to pay off to get this tomorrow 😫😫😫
June 6, 2025
IM OBSESSED WITH THEM
March 3, 2025
—"you must marry to inherit"
—trans hero
—"oh no my new employee is hot"
—slow burn to passion
Heat Index: 6/10
The Basics:
Lord Christopher Eden prefers to keep his distance from society, both because he’s somewhat eccentric in general, and because he doesn’t want anyone to know his secrets. The trouble is, Christopher is going to lose his estate—and his earldom—if he doesn’t marry before his next birthday. On his quest to find a wife, he hires the prickly (some might stay STARCHY) valet James Harding, whose stern attitude is both annoying and, let’s be real, super hot. As they become friends, however, Christopher’s burgeoning longing for James does pose a complication for the whole “finding a wife” thing…
The Review:
TJ Alexander has become an author I can reliably recommend—you’ll almost definitely like or love the book if they wrote it, and this is no exception. I am SO happy to see them hitting the historical romance space when it needs a voice like theirs so desperately. Historical romance is not dead! But damn, if you want to keep it alive you need not only diverse writers, but writers who write unabashedly what they want. That is TJ. They are fearless and they are determined and it’s just a joy to read their stories.
While A Gentleman’s Gentleman does touch on some very difficult topics—transphobia and homophobia are never confronted directly on the page, exactly, but they’re forces that obviously shape the world and the circumstances in which Christopher lives—it has a really breezy, wryly humorous tone infused with some classic Historical Romance Pining. I don’t know that any romance subgenre does Pining as well as historical romance, and you get the whole nine yards here.
This is entirely from Christopher’s third person POV. While I do admittedly prefer dual POV, TJ does a great job of giving us a very clear picture of who James is, what he longs for, his quirks. Christopher is fairly smitten fairly quickly, but in a “This is so embarrassing and also inconvenient, I can’t believe myself” kind of way. (There’s also a really good beat wherein he discusses whether or not being attracted to a man makes him LESS of a man—something that was refreshing to see touched upon.) It’s as the story goes on and he and James become friends that their feelings deepen. It’s gradual, it’s natural, but it never feels meandering. This is, inheritance plot aside, overall what I would call a character study romance.
When compared to Alexis Hall’s Something series (which I love) I’d say this is sort of between that and a “traditional” historical romance vibe. It’s set firmly in a more realistic, if optimistic, historical setting. Christopher does have a close queer friend, but he doesn’t have a circle, as Hall’s characters often do. And part of that is also necessity, right? Christopher is hiding, and I wouldn’t say that the urge to hide is ONLY due to his transness (he has a great backstory that DID feel very classic old school historical romance in a lot of ways). But you’re in that middle space, where Christopher isn’t ashamed, exactly, but also feels pretty alone because while he has a friend that is gay, he doesn’t have any friends who are trans.
By rooting this story in a more grounded world, TJ also gets to highlight the reality of trans history: that it is, in fact, a history. That there were and have always been trans people. And there will always be trans people. Regardless of whatever various corrupt regimes try to tell you. It’s not that Christopher is truly alone; it’s that he feels alone, and once he realizes he isn’t, you can truly feel this weight lift a little.
All while he’s falling head over heels in love with a very uptight hot man who’s all about dressing him.
The Sex:
Although there is explicit sex in this novel, you do have to wait a good while for it. I’d definitely categorize this as a slow burn; but because the emotions are big and the longing is LONGING, I didn’t feel undermined or whatever. Plus, what you do get is truly excellent and really unique to the characters. I don’t know if I’ve read a sex scene before that had the exact same kind of… framing, I guess? In terms of where the characters were coming from emotionally speaking.
Also, Christopher is totally inexperienced, so…. a win for the lovers of virgin heroes (there are dozens of us! Dozens!).
I will say, though—if you’re a fan of the stretched out tension? Yeah. There’s a scene in this book that does tension SO. RIDICULOUSLY. WELL. I may have pearl-clutched a little.
Look, I’m not gonna ignore the elephant in the room: Trans people are under attack in my country. They always have been, but the loud part is very loud right now. Reading and buying and promoting trans romances should always be a priority. People NEED to be exposed to these love stories. It’s political. It’s emotional.
And, oh look, you also get to read a really great love story. You’re winning on every level. Give yourself that win. Buy this book.
Thanks to Vintage and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
—trans hero
—"oh no my new employee is hot"
—slow burn to passion
Heat Index: 6/10
The Basics:
Lord Christopher Eden prefers to keep his distance from society, both because he’s somewhat eccentric in general, and because he doesn’t want anyone to know his secrets. The trouble is, Christopher is going to lose his estate—and his earldom—if he doesn’t marry before his next birthday. On his quest to find a wife, he hires the prickly (some might stay STARCHY) valet James Harding, whose stern attitude is both annoying and, let’s be real, super hot. As they become friends, however, Christopher’s burgeoning longing for James does pose a complication for the whole “finding a wife” thing…
The Review:
TJ Alexander has become an author I can reliably recommend—you’ll almost definitely like or love the book if they wrote it, and this is no exception. I am SO happy to see them hitting the historical romance space when it needs a voice like theirs so desperately. Historical romance is not dead! But damn, if you want to keep it alive you need not only diverse writers, but writers who write unabashedly what they want. That is TJ. They are fearless and they are determined and it’s just a joy to read their stories.
While A Gentleman’s Gentleman does touch on some very difficult topics—transphobia and homophobia are never confronted directly on the page, exactly, but they’re forces that obviously shape the world and the circumstances in which Christopher lives—it has a really breezy, wryly humorous tone infused with some classic Historical Romance Pining. I don’t know that any romance subgenre does Pining as well as historical romance, and you get the whole nine yards here.
This is entirely from Christopher’s third person POV. While I do admittedly prefer dual POV, TJ does a great job of giving us a very clear picture of who James is, what he longs for, his quirks. Christopher is fairly smitten fairly quickly, but in a “This is so embarrassing and also inconvenient, I can’t believe myself” kind of way. (There’s also a really good beat wherein he discusses whether or not being attracted to a man makes him LESS of a man—something that was refreshing to see touched upon.) It’s as the story goes on and he and James become friends that their feelings deepen. It’s gradual, it’s natural, but it never feels meandering. This is, inheritance plot aside, overall what I would call a character study romance.
When compared to Alexis Hall’s Something series (which I love) I’d say this is sort of between that and a “traditional” historical romance vibe. It’s set firmly in a more realistic, if optimistic, historical setting. Christopher does have a close queer friend, but he doesn’t have a circle, as Hall’s characters often do. And part of that is also necessity, right? Christopher is hiding, and I wouldn’t say that the urge to hide is ONLY due to his transness (he has a great backstory that DID feel very classic old school historical romance in a lot of ways). But you’re in that middle space, where Christopher isn’t ashamed, exactly, but also feels pretty alone because while he has a friend that is gay, he doesn’t have any friends who are trans.
By rooting this story in a more grounded world, TJ also gets to highlight the reality of trans history: that it is, in fact, a history. That there were and have always been trans people. And there will always be trans people. Regardless of whatever various corrupt regimes try to tell you. It’s not that Christopher is truly alone; it’s that he feels alone, and once he realizes he isn’t, you can truly feel this weight lift a little.
All while he’s falling head over heels in love with a very uptight hot man who’s all about dressing him.
The Sex:
Although there is explicit sex in this novel, you do have to wait a good while for it. I’d definitely categorize this as a slow burn; but because the emotions are big and the longing is LONGING, I didn’t feel undermined or whatever. Plus, what you do get is truly excellent and really unique to the characters. I don’t know if I’ve read a sex scene before that had the exact same kind of… framing, I guess? In terms of where the characters were coming from emotionally speaking.
Also, Christopher is totally inexperienced, so…. a win for the lovers of virgin heroes (there are dozens of us! Dozens!).
I will say, though—if you’re a fan of the stretched out tension? Yeah. There’s a scene in this book that does tension SO. RIDICULOUSLY. WELL. I may have pearl-clutched a little.
Look, I’m not gonna ignore the elephant in the room: Trans people are under attack in my country. They always have been, but the loud part is very loud right now. Reading and buying and promoting trans romances should always be a priority. People NEED to be exposed to these love stories. It’s political. It’s emotional.
And, oh look, you also get to read a really great love story. You’re winning on every level. Give yourself that win. Buy this book.
Thanks to Vintage and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2025
Third book finished for Bookcamp 2025. This might be a very circumstantial five star rating, but I had such a great time reading this. I was cackling like a goblin at parts of it, and the slow burn was slow burning. I hope this author writes more historical romance.
Read Harder Challenge 2025: Read a romance book that doesn’t have an illustrated cover.
Read Harder Challenge 2025: Read a romance book that doesn’t have an illustrated cover.
June 2, 2025
“There are all sorts, my lord,” Harding said. “The world is wide and full of grace, I promise you.”
rating: 4.5
oh this was such a delightful queer regency romance. christopher as the buttoned-up dandy used to living hiding away in his country home, harding as his new valet who awakens something new in him.
the yearning 🤌🏼 the belief in romance, to live your life for yourself as who you want to be. this was the perfect read to start pride month with.
it's so wonderful to see more books with this representation in time periods we never consider to have queer folks living in.
rating: 4.5
oh this was such a delightful queer regency romance. christopher as the buttoned-up dandy used to living hiding away in his country home, harding as his new valet who awakens something new in him.
the yearning 🤌🏼 the belief in romance, to live your life for yourself as who you want to be. this was the perfect read to start pride month with.
it's so wonderful to see more books with this representation in time periods we never consider to have queer folks living in.
March 11, 2025
Historical romance will always have a special place in my heart, and I especially love when authors make some much needed diversity additions to the genre. Now this book was more slow moving than I expected, but it was overall a very relaxing read for me. Which at the time, I very much needed. Christopher & James are so wonderful together, their chemistry is immediate but the romance is such a great slow burn. I honestly loved this book!
It’s worth noting that Trans books in any form are always going to a powerful act of resistance in a world where governments are constantly trying to erase their existence. And to me, there is something so profoundly epic about Trans historical romance books in particular. They are a proud declaration that Trans folks have and always will exist.
*huge thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review
It’s worth noting that Trans books in any form are always going to a powerful act of resistance in a world where governments are constantly trying to erase their existence. And to me, there is something so profoundly epic about Trans historical romance books in particular. They are a proud declaration that Trans folks have and always will exist.
*huge thanks to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review
Read
March 18, 2025Full, very excited disclosure: this book came out March 11 and I got to blurb it! I’m incredibly honored and I’ve been bragging for months that I got to read this book early. So, should you acquire a copy of this, somewhere in the first few pages, it will say my name and “Witty, exhilarating, and achingly tender, A Gentleman’s Gentleman lavishes its trans hero with the elegant waistcoats he desires and the love and acceptance he’s resigned himself to living without. His reserved valet stole my heart. I adored this!” I meant every word, and here are a few more: you should also know that this book has a carriage chase and a scene where somebody climbs up a trellis to get into a second-floor bedroom in the middle of the night. The good shit.
November 5, 2025
Look, I'm grateful for existence of good trans rep and I loved the characters and their joy and their friends but the setting was so wildy historically inaccurate that I see no reason whatsoever to pitch this book as historical romance. For one, the threat of losing the title and lands if not married by a certain date on which the central plot hinges is impossible. And second, the characters behave and talk like 21st century pals, not as an earl and his servant (even taking the later revelations into consideration). It took me such a long time to rearange my expectations to accept this as some sort of AU, that it really diminished my enjoyment.
February 23, 2025
average rating: •••.75
‘we cannot always have the whole of what we want. there are times when we must weigh our happiness against our need and be content with what are given.’
it's been a very long time since i read historical fiction in regency era since the duke and i, and now i have to witness it again. this time, with queer representation.
i must say i really enjoy the book. i love some of the witty remarks from the side characters. the plot twist made my jaw dropped. aND THE FÜCKÏNG SLOW BURN??? yep, it's worth it (even though there's some tension between both mc's)
i'm slightly disappointed in christopher's actions, especially when he first saw james while he is finding his new valet to join him in london. but i'll guess that's my only complain since i have no problem while reading this
and since this is the author's first take at writing historical romance (since their past releases set in modern time), i'm excited to witness more of this genre in particular 💞
───────────────────────
pre-read:
₊˚⊹♡ seungchaccomin's pink cover february tbr #3
update: 02-17-25
not my current reads set in different timelines. but well, here goes nothing 😞
update: 12-06-24
new goal for my february tbr; find the cover where the color is pink. and this cover is the perfect match! anyways, i'm excited to read this author's first regency (trans) romance 🤭💘
thank you to netgalley and hq for providing me with an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
‘we cannot always have the whole of what we want. there are times when we must weigh our happiness against our need and be content with what are given.’
it's been a very long time since i read historical fiction in regency era since the duke and i, and now i have to witness it again. this time, with queer representation.
i must say i really enjoy the book. i love some of the witty remarks from the side characters. the plot twist made my jaw dropped. aND THE FÜCKÏNG SLOW BURN??? yep, it's worth it (
i'm slightly disappointed in christopher's actions, especially when he first saw james while he is finding his new valet to join him in london. but i'll guess that's my only complain since i have no problem while reading this
and since this is the author's first take at writing historical romance (since their past releases set in modern time), i'm excited to witness more of this genre in particular 💞
───────────────────────
pre-read:
₊˚⊹♡ seungchaccomin's pink cover february tbr #3
update: 02-17-25
not my current reads set in different timelines. but well, here goes nothing 😞
update: 12-06-24
new goal for my february tbr; find the cover where the color is pink. and this cover is the perfect match! anyways, i'm excited to read this author's first regency (trans) romance 🤭💘
thank you to netgalley and hq for providing me with an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 11, 2025
4.5 stars
A GENTLEMAN’S GENTLEMAN is the 4th T.J. Alexander book I’ve read and while I’ve enjoyed all of them, this one is my new favorite. A trans Regency romance with a comfy vibe to it which was perfect as I needed a good escapism read.
Lord Christopher Eden lives a bit of a reclusive life, preferring the company of his cook and butler. He’s recently gotten word his father’s will stipulates he must find a wife soon or he’ll lose the family fortune and estate. This presents a problem as Christopher is not attracted to women. James Harding has been hired as his valet and will help him during the London Season as Christopher will attempt to find a woman to marry. Both men strike up a friendship and well…
Right of the bat Christopher is a likeable character based on how he treats his staff more like family than servants. Refreshing as that’s not usually the norm among the wealthy and privileged especially a couple centuries ago. This is a slow burn romance but it makes sense as the stakes are rather high and plenty of reasons why one might not feel comfortable sharing everything about themselves. The time period adds another layer to the story and why things play out at slower pace compared to a contemporary romance novel. Overall, a nice love story with charm, humor, and heart.
Thank you Vintage Books for sending me a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
A GENTLEMAN’S GENTLEMAN is the 4th T.J. Alexander book I’ve read and while I’ve enjoyed all of them, this one is my new favorite. A trans Regency romance with a comfy vibe to it which was perfect as I needed a good escapism read.
Lord Christopher Eden lives a bit of a reclusive life, preferring the company of his cook and butler. He’s recently gotten word his father’s will stipulates he must find a wife soon or he’ll lose the family fortune and estate. This presents a problem as Christopher is not attracted to women. James Harding has been hired as his valet and will help him during the London Season as Christopher will attempt to find a woman to marry. Both men strike up a friendship and well…
Right of the bat Christopher is a likeable character based on how he treats his staff more like family than servants. Refreshing as that’s not usually the norm among the wealthy and privileged especially a couple centuries ago. This is a slow burn romance but it makes sense as the stakes are rather high and plenty of reasons why one might not feel comfortable sharing everything about themselves. The time period adds another layer to the story and why things play out at slower pace compared to a contemporary romance novel. Overall, a nice love story with charm, humor, and heart.
Thank you Vintage Books for sending me a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
April 15, 2025
I'm not a huge historical romance reader, but this is exactly my kind of thing in the genre. This is a super fun and super cute romcom with an adorable slowburn T4T romance. The audiobook was so good!
April 6, 2025
This book is quiet yet riveting. Tender and funny, with all the world-building details that make historical romance great. It is the slowest of burns, but in a way that fully serves the story and never feels contrived. I will be thinking about this book for a long time. I'm so excited we'll be getting another book in this series!
November 2, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
i was LOVING this so so much but the ending was so rushed that it kind of ruined the rest of it for me 😭😭😭 still had a great time reading but kinda disappointed in the last few chapters :(
i was LOVING this so so much but the ending was so rushed that it kind of ruined the rest of it for me 😭😭😭 still had a great time reading but kinda disappointed in the last few chapters :(
June 1, 2025
4 1/2*STARS*
Lord Christopher Eden lives as a recluse in his castle with just a butler and a cook. On the stipulations of his father's will, he must be married by his twenty-fifth birthday to keep his inheritance. Christopher has a secret he's kept for many years and has no desire for a wife. Besides it must be a marriage of convenience. To be prepared for life with Polite Society in London, he needs a valet. Arriving on his doorstep is James Harding, his new valet, sent by his attorneys. At first it's an uneasy relationship, but as each man shows a hidden side of himself to each other, more secrets are revealed. An enjoyable read, of an unusual love story, in Regency England after the defeat of Napoleon.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Lord Christopher Eden lives as a recluse in his castle with just a butler and a cook. On the stipulations of his father's will, he must be married by his twenty-fifth birthday to keep his inheritance. Christopher has a secret he's kept for many years and has no desire for a wife. Besides it must be a marriage of convenience. To be prepared for life with Polite Society in London, he needs a valet. Arriving on his doorstep is James Harding, his new valet, sent by his attorneys. At first it's an uneasy relationship, but as each man shows a hidden side of himself to each other, more secrets are revealed. An enjoyable read, of an unusual love story, in Regency England after the defeat of Napoleon.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
June 27, 2025
audiobook
my fault for not reading reviews and just hearing starchy valet plus noble and running to get this in my ear holes 🤌🏽 If I had done the normal person thing I'd have found out this is a mega slow burn which is definitely Not For Me and yet I was okay with it. I'm sure the great narration played a part but I was also so invested in these two adorable idiots that I was able to overlook the fact (somewhat) that nothing romantic really happens until the last 20 ish percent of the book. I also have been reading for decades and it's not often that a book manages to surprise the f out of me. this book did that... literally left my mouth hanging open at one point. Recommended!
Tropes:
Close Proximity
Class Difference
TW: mentions of grief and one death/funeral (secondary character) on page.
my fault for not reading reviews and just hearing starchy valet plus noble and running to get this in my ear holes 🤌🏽 If I had done the normal person thing I'd have found out this is a mega slow burn which is definitely Not For Me and yet I was okay with it. I'm sure the great narration played a part but I was also so invested in these two adorable idiots that I was able to overlook the fact (somewhat) that nothing romantic really happens until the last 20 ish percent of the book. I also have been reading for decades and it's not often that a book manages to surprise the f out of me. this book did that... literally left my mouth hanging open at one point. Recommended!
Tropes:
Close Proximity
Class Difference
TW: mentions of grief and one death/funeral (secondary character) on page.
June 22, 2025
really loved the trans rep but otherwise it was just okay 🤷🏻♀️
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