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Indulgence #1
One Indulgence
When Henry Cortland, the Earl of Brenleigh, comes to London to fulfill his duty and take a wife, he also decides to first fulfill his most secret and suppressed desires. He wants to spend just one night with a man. A sultry encounter with a handsome stranger surpasses all his hopes, leaving him certain that he will live off the memories for the rest of his life.
Lord Richard Avery has grown tired of his endless string of casual relationships, yet an argument with his lover sends him right into the arms of a total stranger. But Henry is not like any lover he has ever had, and the attraction between them is more than physical. Richard wants more, but can their mutual attraction overcome Henry's family obligations and sense of duty? Can Richard convince him to follow his heart rather than the demands of family and title?
Lord Richard Avery has grown tired of his endless string of casual relationships, yet an argument with his lover sends him right into the arms of a total stranger. But Henry is not like any lover he has ever had, and the attraction between them is more than physical. Richard wants more, but can their mutual attraction overcome Henry's family obligations and sense of duty? Can Richard convince him to follow his heart rather than the demands of family and title?
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2014
80 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Lydia Gastrell
4 books124 followersLydia Gastrell was born in central Florida and grew up in the Finger Lakes region of New York. A life long student of history, she received her degree in European History with a specialization in Social Deviance from Virginia Wesleyan College, Norfolk, in 2008.
She started writing fanfiction in 2012 and published her first book, One Indulgence, in 2014.
In addition to writing historical fiction and romance, she is a also a student of costume history and works to conserve and reproduce 18th and 19th century garments.
She started writing fanfiction in 2012 and published her first book, One Indulgence, in 2014.
In addition to writing historical fiction and romance, she is a also a student of costume history and works to conserve and reproduce 18th and 19th century garments.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
July 9, 2016
Written October 3, 2014
4.3 Strong Stars - A well-made, reliable historical in true genuine HR style. Neat, engaging and romantic.
One Indulgence is a newly published historical by the "new" author Lydia Gastrell. I downloaded her book to read without the slightest idea if this was a good M/M romance or not. I couldn't even remember when or why I selected this book to my TBR shelf in the first place. ~ More than an old passion for good Regency romances, of course.
•
• • • •
Was it worth the time and pennies?
Well indeed, it was a very lucky shot. A book to love, characters to remember and a new author to follow.
***********************************************
London 1807...
# Henry Courtland, the young Earl of Brenleigh (living in the estate far away in Lancaster), still a virgin with need for one single hot night.
# Lord Richard Avery (younger brother to the Duke of Culfrey), the more experienced (..but so love-starved) London 'party-dandy'.
What a perfect title; One Indulgence. A grand love-tale begins when they meet a strange night in London 1806. ...one night!
The way for these two gorgeous —but very human not flawless— men, to a shared happiness, was both tortuous, complicated and often too painful. I really felt with (mostly) Henry and (always) Richard. I just love it when my heart hurts of empathy now and then. ~ In the large a pretty predictable (which romance is not?) but also some smaller surprises and interesting twists. It was a bit nervous at times.
***********************************************
I'm so greateful in my old-fashioned romance heart.
It is so wonderful to read a new gay historical romance that is not just an romance-erotica (or too obsessed with lust page up and page down), but instead get a genuine, very sweet romantic, romance.
This was rather a developed story with several interesting second characters and some (gay) men I hope to meet again, much more intrusively, in a possible forthcoming future book.
I had a weak ambition yesterday after finish that I would try to write a beautiful tribute review. It went instead out in something much simpler (..and shorter - Yes, you're probably cheering my faithful dear friends !!).
Actually there is only one thing to say: So Very Good!
Nothing in the romances huge fantastic book-world is like to get enchanted by a good 'oldish' Regency historical filled with gorgeous noble English Lord's, Duke's and Earl's. I want more:
~ “Your Grace" ~ “Your Lordship” ~
...Sigh!! ~ I'm "happy dancing" once again.
***********************************************
A debuting new writer who really got it right on the first try. Congratulations Ms. Gastrell! ~ The next book will light up in my reader the same day it is published.
I LIKE - Yes always, when it is captivating and well-done romance
*****
A buddy read with Sofia and Irina. Thanks girlies, you're great.
4.3 Strong Stars - A well-made, reliable historical in true genuine HR style. Neat, engaging and romantic.
One Indulgence is a newly published historical by the "new" author Lydia Gastrell. I downloaded her book to read without the slightest idea if this was a good M/M romance or not. I couldn't even remember when or why I selected this book to my TBR shelf in the first place. ~ More than an old passion for good Regency romances, of course.
•
• • • •Was it worth the time and pennies?
Well indeed, it was a very lucky shot. A book to love, characters to remember and a new author to follow.
***********************************************
‘There would always have to be locks between them and the world. It was the only way it could be (...)’
London 1807...
# Henry Courtland, the young Earl of Brenleigh (living in the estate far away in Lancaster), still a virgin with need for one single hot night.
# Lord Richard Avery (younger brother to the Duke of Culfrey), the more experienced (..but so love-starved) London 'party-dandy'.
What a perfect title; One Indulgence. A grand love-tale begins when they meet a strange night in London 1806. ...one night!
"Tonight will be a glorious memory for me-" Oh! Rambling fool! Henry turned his gaze to the fire.
"I am glad," Richard said sincerely.'
The way for these two gorgeous —but very human not flawless— men, to a shared happiness, was both tortuous, complicated and often too painful. I really felt with (mostly) Henry and (always) Richard. I just love it when my heart hurts of empathy now and then. ~ In the large a pretty predictable (which romance is not?) but also some smaller surprises and interesting twists. It was a bit nervous at times.
***********************************************
I'm so greateful in my old-fashioned romance heart.
It is so wonderful to read a new gay historical romance that is not just an romance-erotica (or too obsessed with lust page up and page down), but instead get a genuine, very sweet romantic, romance.
This was rather a developed story with several interesting second characters and some (gay) men I hope to meet again, much more intrusively, in a possible forthcoming future book.
'He felt the smile consume him to the point of giddiness, like an naughty child who had just stolen a plate of pastries.'
I had a weak ambition yesterday after finish that I would try to write a beautiful tribute review. It went instead out in something much simpler (..and shorter - Yes, you're probably cheering my faithful dear friends !!).
Actually there is only one thing to say: So Very Good!
Nothing in the romances huge fantastic book-world is like to get enchanted by a good 'oldish' Regency historical filled with gorgeous noble English Lord's, Duke's and Earl's. I want more:
~ “Your Grace" ~ “Your Lordship” ~
...Sigh!! ~ I'm "happy dancing" once again.
***********************************************
A debuting new writer who really got it right on the first try. Congratulations Ms. Gastrell! ~ The next book will light up in my reader the same day it is published.
I LIKE - Yes always, when it is captivating and well-done romance
*****
A buddy read with Sofia and Irina. Thanks girlies, you're great.
December 28, 2014
First of all, thank you so much, SS! (I know, almost 2 weeks reading this, but I don't have that much time at this point)
I'm a sucker for a good historical romance, and this provided everything I needed in it!
The first pages are a bit boring, so in the beginning I had to make an effort to get in it but once inside I just didn't want to go out. The story is slow-burning although the opening fools you into thinking the opposite. It was very similar to Ava March so I expected lots of sex scenes and a final but rushed declaration of love. But that's not even close. Good setting, better 1800s atmosphere and awesome heroes. Slow as an iceberg but in the good sense, because I wanted to see every motion of the movie and I wasn't disappointed.
I'm a sucker for a good historical romance, and this provided everything I needed in it!
The first pages are a bit boring, so in the beginning I had to make an effort to get in it but once inside I just didn't want to go out. The story is slow-burning although the opening fools you into thinking the opposite. It was very similar to Ava March so I expected lots of sex scenes and a final but rushed declaration of love. But that's not even close. Good setting, better 1800s atmosphere and awesome heroes. Slow as an iceberg but in the good sense, because I wanted to see every motion of the movie and I wasn't disappointed.
October 2, 2014
3.5 stars
This was a classical regency with m/m. Very nicely done in my opinion. Lots of m/m historicals seem to have the two main characters living in a bubble which separates them from the world around them, but not this one. Richard and Henry’s story happens in a world with people in it, there are interactions and people/situations I could like or dislike. I enjoyed reading about Anne, Emily, Ben, Sam, Julian, Claiborne. I definitely want to know about Sam and Claiborne. In fact Sam seriously stole the spotlight for me.
The kind of book where you see where things are going, no surprises, but you settle in and enjoy the ride. Yessir. So yes, you can read this and enjoy it as light hearted fun but if you delve deeper there is more substance to partake. Beneath the light hearted fun, you will find Richard hurting because of Tom’s rejection. Or the consequences of actions as seen from different eyes, like Henry and Sam’s history. Whilst accepting that homosexuals had no option but to lie to survive, they still have to live and deal with the consequences of their lies. Cause and effect. .
I saw that Ms G is writing a second book in this series. Wonder whom it will be about.
BR with Ingela and Irina - thanks gals for the company.
October 18, 2014
What an introduction to the Regency MM! I didn't expect it to be so entertaining!
It has everything HR is so famous for - handsome gentlemen, opulent ballrooms, a proper courting, jealousy and sweet surrender.
This was my first historical MM and I was curious how could it possibly work. But I shouldn't have worried because, it seems, when two people are in love and determined to be together, they'll overcome any obstacle on the way.
Henry and Richard have all the odds against them and for awhile they don't even fight for their happiness. Only after realising that they hurt other people in the process, let alone each other, these two finally give up pretending.
One Indulgence is a compelling story with the slightly predictable but still very interesting plot. As a fan of historical f/m genre, I have really enjoyed this and the romance between the secondary characters too. Well-written and captivating, it had all worked perfectly for me and was exactly what I needed.
Loved it! ;)
***4.5 stars***
Thank you my sweet girls, Ingela and Sofia, for your company! ❤️
It has everything HR is so famous for - handsome gentlemen, opulent ballrooms, a proper courting, jealousy and sweet surrender.
This was my first historical MM and I was curious how could it possibly work. But I shouldn't have worried because, it seems, when two people are in love and determined to be together, they'll overcome any obstacle on the way.
Henry and Richard have all the odds against them and for awhile they don't even fight for their happiness. Only after realising that they hurt other people in the process, let alone each other, these two finally give up pretending.
One Indulgence is a compelling story with the slightly predictable but still very interesting plot. As a fan of historical f/m genre, I have really enjoyed this and the romance between the secondary characters too. Well-written and captivating, it had all worked perfectly for me and was exactly what I needed.
Loved it! ;)
***4.5 stars***
Thank you my sweet girls, Ingela and Sofia, for your company! ❤️
dnf
September 19, 2014DNF at 63%
I give up. Sorry. I found this VERY boring.
I am not a historical genre fan, in both MM or MF. Although I admit that I started to open myself to historical MM this year and found some good ones. But apparently, there is also a 'trope' in historical genre that I just can't get interested with. It's when one of the main characters is arranged to be married to a woman.
Looking back to similar experience with a couple of months ago with The Duke in Denial -- I forced myself to finish that one because I needed to review it -- I realize that I have trouble to get connected to such situation. For one, I feel that it will not be fair to the woman, when the two men sort of 'doing it' on the side. For another, the angst for such situation just doesn't work for me. Maybe because I'm also NOT a fan of regency novels, where everyone must act so proper according to their position in the community. I keep thinking, why do you care so much about what is right?!? F*ck the duty and title!
Thus, the kind of situation this book bored the HELL out of me. I didn't have enough patience, I guess, to reach the finish line.
As always with my DNF books, I will not rate this. Besides, it might also be influenced with my own personal unfavorable taste to the historical and regency in overall *shrugs*
I give up. Sorry. I found this VERY boring.
I am not a historical genre fan, in both MM or MF. Although I admit that I started to open myself to historical MM this year and found some good ones. But apparently, there is also a 'trope' in historical genre that I just can't get interested with. It's when one of the main characters is arranged to be married to a woman.
Looking back to similar experience with a couple of months ago with The Duke in Denial -- I forced myself to finish that one because I needed to review it -- I realize that I have trouble to get connected to such situation. For one, I feel that it will not be fair to the woman, when the two men sort of 'doing it' on the side. For another, the angst for such situation just doesn't work for me. Maybe because I'm also NOT a fan of regency novels, where everyone must act so proper according to their position in the community. I keep thinking, why do you care so much about what is right?!? F*ck the duty and title!
Thus, the kind of situation this book bored the HELL out of me. I didn't have enough patience, I guess, to reach the finish line.
As always with my DNF books, I will not rate this. Besides, it might also be influenced with my own personal unfavorable taste to the historical and regency in overall *shrugs*
June 29, 2016
DNF at 67%
I was in the mood for some regency MM. 'One Indulgence' should have worked for me, considering it has a lot of things that I tend to enjoy in historical romance - a virgin, some "teaching", Regency society, and forbidden love. But this just fell flat.
There's a lot of repetition. We get multiple scenes repeated from both Richard and Henry's POVs, and even secondary characters' POVs. It was unnecessary, and slowed down the story quite a lot.
The insta-love was completely unbelievable. After their first night together, Richard thinks "mine". A few accidental meetings later, and both Richard and Henry are thinking about forever and ever. I didn't buy it. I couldn't help but wonder whether Henry had a case of hero worship because Richard had taken his virginity, and whether Richard only found him attractive because Henry wasn't jaded or experienced like most of the gay men in London.
I really disliked how both Richard and Henry were willing to manipulate and use Richard's sister for their own gain. For all that Richard protested against his sister being used as a pawn for the family, he seemed perfectly fine using her as a pawn himself. It left a bad taste in my mouth.
Overall, I found 'One Indulgence' to be very boring. There was no connection or spark between Richard and Henry, and all of the side-stories and secondary character POVs were just distracting. The romance itself seems to be a cookie-cutter regency romance, just with two penises instead of one.
Oh well, moving on.
I was in the mood for some regency MM. 'One Indulgence' should have worked for me, considering it has a lot of things that I tend to enjoy in historical romance - a virgin, some "teaching", Regency society, and forbidden love. But this just fell flat.
There's a lot of repetition. We get multiple scenes repeated from both Richard and Henry's POVs, and even secondary characters' POVs. It was unnecessary, and slowed down the story quite a lot.
The insta-love was completely unbelievable. After their first night together, Richard thinks "mine". A few accidental meetings later, and both Richard and Henry are thinking about forever and ever. I didn't buy it. I couldn't help but wonder whether Henry had a case of hero worship because Richard had taken his virginity, and whether Richard only found him attractive because Henry wasn't jaded or experienced like most of the gay men in London.
I really disliked how both Richard and Henry were willing to manipulate and use Richard's sister for their own gain. For all that Richard protested against his sister being used as a pawn for the family, he seemed perfectly fine using her as a pawn himself. It left a bad taste in my mouth.
Overall, I found 'One Indulgence' to be very boring. There was no connection or spark between Richard and Henry, and all of the side-stories and secondary character POVs were just distracting. The romance itself seems to be a cookie-cutter regency romance, just with two penises instead of one.
Oh well, moving on.
September 17, 2014
....Love the spin we get on historical romance, especially with m/m stories. This was a real page turner, I was almost afraid to read what obstacles would come next for these very likable MC's.
Read
October 18, 2025dnf @ 35%
the writing is just... 😕 i can't do it chief
the writing is just... 😕 i can't do it chief
February 12, 2015
Delicious...so hot, but also sweet. Throw in some emotional moments that had me blinking back tears, and I was smitten.
Predictable story, but I loved the characters, even the secondary ones. (Please tell me there will be more stories...Sam and Julian both need HEAs. And Claiborne was intriguing, we need his story, too.)
Lydia Gastrell, thank you for this story. I will be watching for future ones...and cursing the lack of a backlist.
Predictable story, but I loved the characters, even the secondary ones. (Please tell me there will be more stories...Sam and Julian both need HEAs. And Claiborne was intriguing, we need his story, too.)
Lydia Gastrell, thank you for this story. I will be watching for future ones...and cursing the lack of a backlist.
January 28, 2015
I should have known this book would be one I would love. It’s Regency m/m and it was published on my wedding anniversary. Two very good signs if I do say so myself. And I do.
ACK! This was such a comfort read for me. Let me explain; historical romance, regency romance was where I began in the genre. It’s my safe place, my comfort zone and my welcome home if you will. I know the lay of the land, I know all about what goes on at White’s, the details of the Season and the drama of the ton. I know the why’s of Hyde Park and the daily ins and outs of those whose names come with titles and I adore it. Its splendor and it’s hedonism call to me. Oh yeah, it calls to me and this book was a siren.
The book begins with our dear Henry at a London brothel arranging to have one night, just one night of indulgence in what he wants most, a night with another man. But Henry doesn’t want a whore or someone paid to be with him, he wants a tall dark and handsome stranger to walk in the room and sweep him off his feet. Is Henry asking too much? Of course not, it’s his desire and thankfully, Richard is out there having it out with his lover and deciding he is done, he walks into said brothel and Henry’s life. Goodness. From the time these two set eyes on one another you felt the attraction and you know this is not going to be something light or fluffy. This one night would be intense and it would be sensual. It was in fact, hot. Yup. Regency virgin butt sex is hot. There I said it and I own it.
Ahh yeah… and so it began. Richard and Henry are so good together on this one night. Not only the sex but what comes after, the actual conversation. Yes, it’s possible for men to talk. Shocking, I know. I adored that even though both men knew this must be a one off, the attraction and connection was enough for them to let down their guard and be vulnerable for this one time. But would one time be enough? Sadly, it must be as Henry is due to wed soon via his late father’s arrangement and he has to sustain the family name in all respects. My poor, Henry.
So before I forget, each man has title to their name but at the brothel, they were simply just Henry and Richard. SO you know, once the invites to balls or comings out start to happen, they are bound to see one another again. You just don’t expect why and when it happens, my heart dropped and then I was anxious to see how it would all play out. You know Henry believes he has to marry but, ouch! That hurt. Poor love sick Richard, what ever will he do?
See, what I love and what ultimately breaks my heart about regency/historical m/m romance is the hiding. Yes, today men will still hide and keep their lives private but back then? I can’t imagine how they would go about being together but those stolen moments, the small touch of hands that no one sees, the looks and words with double meanings, those are what make me fall in love with these stories and believe that even in those times, men could find some way to be happy with another man. Have you met my hopeless romantic heart yet? Le Sigh.
The chase of love, of the one thing you want was done very well. All very true to the time, or what I have encountered in my 20 some years of reading numerous titles of regency romance. It felt so real, and all the emotions were there for me to melt into and just enjoy these boys with their struggle toward one another. Yes, there are lies and misunderstanding of epic proportions but the angst it brought gave purpose and I soaked it up like a drought parched desert in a sporadic rain fall.
There are side characters in this whom do get their own POV. At first it was odd but it flowed with the story and I was hooked. SO hooked that I have a crush on one Sir Samuel Shaw and need his story. That man is one who I am sure I will swoon over and need to take to my room with a fit of the vapors once he falls in love. I have hopes of who that might be, of course, but I will keep that to myself for now.
But this book, the blurb gave me hope for a wonderful story and my gamble on a new author paid off. That title alone makes me groan with lust all the way to the end of that epilogue that gives me so much hope. This was such a fun read, such a romantic read and such a classic regency read, how could I not adore it?
One last little off the wall note: As I was on my run last night, this song came on via my playlist and though it's guitar heavy and sung by a female of this century, the lyrics are so very fitting for this book. To me and my weird thoughts, anyway.
ACK! This was such a comfort read for me. Let me explain; historical romance, regency romance was where I began in the genre. It’s my safe place, my comfort zone and my welcome home if you will. I know the lay of the land, I know all about what goes on at White’s, the details of the Season and the drama of the ton. I know the why’s of Hyde Park and the daily ins and outs of those whose names come with titles and I adore it. Its splendor and it’s hedonism call to me. Oh yeah, it calls to me and this book was a siren.
You understand, my lord, that this is an unusual request.
The book begins with our dear Henry at a London brothel arranging to have one night, just one night of indulgence in what he wants most, a night with another man. But Henry doesn’t want a whore or someone paid to be with him, he wants a tall dark and handsome stranger to walk in the room and sweep him off his feet. Is Henry asking too much? Of course not, it’s his desire and thankfully, Richard is out there having it out with his lover and deciding he is done, he walks into said brothel and Henry’s life. Goodness. From the time these two set eyes on one another you felt the attraction and you know this is not going to be something light or fluffy. This one night would be intense and it would be sensual. It was in fact, hot. Yup. Regency virgin butt sex is hot. There I said it and I own it.
“I know nothing about you, Henry, except perhaps a little about your… experience.”
“Does that concern you? D-do you want to change your mind?”
“Not a chance.”
Ahh yeah… and so it began. Richard and Henry are so good together on this one night. Not only the sex but what comes after, the actual conversation. Yes, it’s possible for men to talk. Shocking, I know. I adored that even though both men knew this must be a one off, the attraction and connection was enough for them to let down their guard and be vulnerable for this one time. But would one time be enough? Sadly, it must be as Henry is due to wed soon via his late father’s arrangement and he has to sustain the family name in all respects. My poor, Henry.
So before I forget, each man has title to their name but at the brothel, they were simply just Henry and Richard. SO you know, once the invites to balls or comings out start to happen, they are bound to see one another again. You just don’t expect why and when it happens, my heart dropped and then I was anxious to see how it would all play out. You know Henry believes he has to marry but, ouch! That hurt. Poor love sick Richard, what ever will he do?
See, what I love and what ultimately breaks my heart about regency/historical m/m romance is the hiding. Yes, today men will still hide and keep their lives private but back then? I can’t imagine how they would go about being together but those stolen moments, the small touch of hands that no one sees, the looks and words with double meanings, those are what make me fall in love with these stories and believe that even in those times, men could find some way to be happy with another man. Have you met my hopeless romantic heart yet? Le Sigh.
I just want to be free... to feel free, even for a little while.
The chase of love, of the one thing you want was done very well. All very true to the time, or what I have encountered in my 20 some years of reading numerous titles of regency romance. It felt so real, and all the emotions were there for me to melt into and just enjoy these boys with their struggle toward one another. Yes, there are lies and misunderstanding of epic proportions but the angst it brought gave purpose and I soaked it up like a drought parched desert in a sporadic rain fall.
There are side characters in this whom do get their own POV. At first it was odd but it flowed with the story and I was hooked. SO hooked that I have a crush on one Sir Samuel Shaw and need his story. That man is one who I am sure I will swoon over and need to take to my room with a fit of the vapors once he falls in love. I have hopes of who that might be, of course, but I will keep that to myself for now.
But this book, the blurb gave me hope for a wonderful story and my gamble on a new author paid off. That title alone makes me groan with lust all the way to the end of that epilogue that gives me so much hope. This was such a fun read, such a romantic read and such a classic regency read, how could I not adore it?
One last little off the wall note: As I was on my run last night, this song came on via my playlist and though it's guitar heavy and sung by a female of this century, the lyrics are so very fitting for this book. To me and my weird thoughts, anyway.
December 29, 2024
"As if of the same mind, they both looked toward the closed garden door. Closed but not locked. There would always have to be locks between them and the world. It was the only way it could be, but as they stared into each other’s excited, blissful eyes, they both knew that they would take advantage of those locks for all they were worth, and they would savor every moment they could behind them."
My god, what an amazingly written book!
I'm giving it 4.5⭐ because I didn't get enough intimacy with the main characters, but I'll round it up.
If you're a fan of the regency romance books, this is going to be a treat for you.
This author goes straight to my favourites tag for sure, the story is absolutely wonderful, fantastic main characters, their dynamic so wonderfully developed until the very end.
Douze points!
🔵 Regency era, both lords
🟣 Age gap 26/29
🟡 One MMC betrothed to the other one's sister
🟢 Both gay
🔵 Multiple POV (additional two added, but it doesn't interfere with the story at all)
🌶️ Less intimacy sadly, but we do get 2-3 descriptive sex scenes, the rest is more kissing and conversation - no need to worry, everything is good!; t/b
Richard and Henry met when Henry, who's an Earl from the countryside, went to the infamous brothel in London that also offers gentlemen of a different persuasion their entertainment; Henry's a complete virgin and has to marry in any case, so he's treating himself to a night with a man and he'll cherish that night for the rest of his days.
Richard on the other hand is a son of a Duke, who's living a modern, hedonistic life in London and even though he's got tons of lovers and likes his lifestyle, he yearns for a man to love, to share his gentle side with, he wants a more meaningful connection, wants to kiss and cuddle as well and he finds that with Henry on that night at the brothel that determines the rest of his life, so to speak.
"Aside from being a depraved sinner in the eyes of the church, he had done his fair share of whoring. There had once been a time when there wasn’t a molly house in London that didn’t know him on sight, and he had enjoyed those days. He had enjoyed the experimentation and the freedom, the joy of indulging without fear, even if his partners were being compensated in coin. The last time he had done so had been just before he met Julian, just before he had once again fooled himself into thinking that he could persuade a man to open his heart as well as his legs."
Richard will fall in love and will want Henry when they're over and done at the brothel and he'll have his heart broken too, but he'll still want to court Henry and convince him not to marry and consider a relationship with Richard.
As crazy as it sounded, it actually worked - and this was the first regency book I've read when a male main character decides to court the other one, he's actively buying presents and tries to woo the man, despite having to hide all the time, especially with Henry who was never relaxed in public, always afraid someone will catch on and see him for who he is.
"And then, as if some wall had fallen away, they were no longer strangers. They did not move as strangers; they did not whisper and kiss as strangers. It was as if they had known each other intimately for years. A small part of Richard’s mind was coherent enough to marvel at the absence of restraint and fear. He kissed Henry’s neck and shoulders, nipping with his teeth, whispering to him in ways he had only dared in the first few encounters with his other partners, before he had been either laughed down or shown open hostility."
Henry and Richard go through many hurdles and societal obligations to actually find happiness at the end of the road.
There are plenty of side characters involved, but they're woven into the story so masterfully that you'll enjoy reading every bit of it, even if it's from their POV, but it's a short bit and it really helps to understand everything that's going on.
There's almost no angst, no nasty people or events to deter you from reading, the book is pure enjoyment. Well, at least it was for me.
I wonder why this author stopped writing?
We only get another book with the side character from this one, but damn, it's so hard to find well written stories with depth these days, I wonder why these authors stop Having such talent, that is.
Let's hope the author still wants to continue writing at some point, I want Julian's story!
My god, what an amazingly written book!
I'm giving it 4.5⭐ because I didn't get enough intimacy with the main characters, but I'll round it up.
If you're a fan of the regency romance books, this is going to be a treat for you.
This author goes straight to my favourites tag for sure, the story is absolutely wonderful, fantastic main characters, their dynamic so wonderfully developed until the very end.
Douze points!
🔵 Regency era, both lords
🟣 Age gap 26/29
🟡 One MMC betrothed to the other one's sister
🟢 Both gay
🔵 Multiple POV (additional two added, but it doesn't interfere with the story at all)
🌶️ Less intimacy sadly, but we do get 2-3 descriptive sex scenes, the rest is more kissing and conversation - no need to worry, everything is good!; t/b
Richard and Henry met when Henry, who's an Earl from the countryside, went to the infamous brothel in London that also offers gentlemen of a different persuasion their entertainment; Henry's a complete virgin and has to marry in any case, so he's treating himself to a night with a man and he'll cherish that night for the rest of his days.
Richard on the other hand is a son of a Duke, who's living a modern, hedonistic life in London and even though he's got tons of lovers and likes his lifestyle, he yearns for a man to love, to share his gentle side with, he wants a more meaningful connection, wants to kiss and cuddle as well and he finds that with Henry on that night at the brothel that determines the rest of his life, so to speak.
"Aside from being a depraved sinner in the eyes of the church, he had done his fair share of whoring. There had once been a time when there wasn’t a molly house in London that didn’t know him on sight, and he had enjoyed those days. He had enjoyed the experimentation and the freedom, the joy of indulging without fear, even if his partners were being compensated in coin. The last time he had done so had been just before he met Julian, just before he had once again fooled himself into thinking that he could persuade a man to open his heart as well as his legs."
Richard will fall in love and will want Henry when they're over and done at the brothel and he'll have his heart broken too, but he'll still want to court Henry and convince him not to marry and consider a relationship with Richard.
As crazy as it sounded, it actually worked - and this was the first regency book I've read when a male main character decides to court the other one, he's actively buying presents and tries to woo the man, despite having to hide all the time, especially with Henry who was never relaxed in public, always afraid someone will catch on and see him for who he is.
"And then, as if some wall had fallen away, they were no longer strangers. They did not move as strangers; they did not whisper and kiss as strangers. It was as if they had known each other intimately for years. A small part of Richard’s mind was coherent enough to marvel at the absence of restraint and fear. He kissed Henry’s neck and shoulders, nipping with his teeth, whispering to him in ways he had only dared in the first few encounters with his other partners, before he had been either laughed down or shown open hostility."
Henry and Richard go through many hurdles and societal obligations to actually find happiness at the end of the road.
There are plenty of side characters involved, but they're woven into the story so masterfully that you'll enjoy reading every bit of it, even if it's from their POV, but it's a short bit and it really helps to understand everything that's going on.
There's almost no angst, no nasty people or events to deter you from reading, the book is pure enjoyment. Well, at least it was for me.
I wonder why this author stopped writing?
We only get another book with the side character from this one, but damn, it's so hard to find well written stories with depth these days, I wonder why these authors stop Having such talent, that is.
Let's hope the author still wants to continue writing at some point, I want Julian's story!
January 19, 2020
Books 1 & 2 in this series have everything I love in a M/M Regency romance - forbidden love, balls, carriage rides, tight breeches......
The opening couple of chapters are a delight.
Please, please publish Book 3 soon?
The opening couple of chapters are a delight.
Please, please publish Book 3 soon?
October 23, 2017
Ok, no. Sorry, but this book completely falls apart about halfway through.
Which is really regrettable because the summary pretty much had me at the first trope. I was ready for all that sweet pining and drama and whatever. And the build-up was promising, all the characters were arranged in a wonderful constellation, the situation was just right for things to unfold...
Unfortunately, at that point everything just turned incoherent and illogical. Where there should have been a slow burn during which the two main characters, especially Henry, develop feelings beyond their initial encounter and actually fall for each other to a point where they reconsider their plans for their lives, it just... ...well, I don't effing know? For some reason Richard is suddenly madly in love and picking out curtains for their hunting lodge future while Henry is just an inconsistent asshole all around with weird hangups that only really seem to matter when the plot requires it. Instead of getting to know each other - which, you know, should kind of be a thing if you're going to pitch them as a grand romantic couple - Richard buys a watch and gives a handjob, which Henry responds to by just continuing to be an asshole. We don't see emotional development, we just see random characters doing unprompted things. Plot points get thrown into the mix erratically at the most convenient moments and by the time Richard and Henry are finally sucking face in some garden, they still haven't actually gotten to know each other beyond "wow, I'm gay and he's kinda hot".
2 stars because the het side couple was actually worth rooting for.
Which is really regrettable because the summary pretty much had me at the first trope. I was ready for all that sweet pining and drama and whatever. And the build-up was promising, all the characters were arranged in a wonderful constellation, the situation was just right for things to unfold...
Unfortunately, at that point everything just turned incoherent and illogical. Where there should have been a slow burn during which the two main characters, especially Henry, develop feelings beyond their initial encounter and actually fall for each other to a point where they reconsider their plans for their lives, it just... ...well, I don't effing know? For some reason Richard is suddenly madly in love and picking out curtains for their hunting lodge future while Henry is just an inconsistent asshole all around with weird hangups that only really seem to matter when the plot requires it. Instead of getting to know each other - which, you know, should kind of be a thing if you're going to pitch them as a grand romantic couple - Richard buys a watch and gives a handjob, which Henry responds to by just continuing to be an asshole. We don't see emotional development, we just see random characters doing unprompted things. Plot points get thrown into the mix erratically at the most convenient moments and by the time Richard and Henry are finally sucking face in some garden, they still haven't actually gotten to know each other beyond "wow, I'm gay and he's kinda hot".
2 stars because the het side couple was actually worth rooting for.
August 24, 2014
I love MM and reg. romance and this did not disappoint!
The nervous virgin wanting to spread his wings before he does the honorable family thing that he promised his dying father,the second son that has found his place and it's not in the normal folds of society. But loves sister and his aunt. Doesn't get along with his older brother anymore and misses that connection.
When Henry and Richard first meet, you can already feel the connection between these two. The night they share is not just page burning hot, but sweet and caring. And you hope that Henry will come to his senses and not let Richard walk away. Richard feels that maybe he has finally found his other half.
But with each not really knowing who they are or why they in that room the morning come and so does reality....
But as the days go by neither one can forget the other
The sister does play a big role in the book, which made me uncomfortable at first. I don't like women in my MM. But the author did an amazing job writing a great character not the whiny female that I gave up reading MF for.
This book as a lot of back and forth struggle between what both charaters feel is right and wrong, which I love! A lot of self growth on both parts.
So if you are looking for a MM reg. period that is SMEXY, SWEET with a HEA. then this is it!
The nervous virgin wanting to spread his wings before he does the honorable family thing that he promised his dying father,the second son that has found his place and it's not in the normal folds of society. But loves sister and his aunt. Doesn't get along with his older brother anymore and misses that connection.
When Henry and Richard first meet, you can already feel the connection between these two. The night they share is not just page burning hot, but sweet and caring. And you hope that Henry will come to his senses and not let Richard walk away. Richard feels that maybe he has finally found his other half.
But with each not really knowing who they are or why they in that room the morning come and so does reality....
But as the days go by neither one can forget the other
The sister does play a big role in the book, which made me uncomfortable at first. I don't like women in my MM. But the author did an amazing job writing a great character not the whiny female that I gave up reading MF for.
This book as a lot of back and forth struggle between what both charaters feel is right and wrong, which I love! A lot of self growth on both parts.
So if you are looking for a MM reg. period that is SMEXY, SWEET with a HEA. then this is it!
November 28, 2014
Brava! That was an absolutely glorious and original story! Romantic, stressful, full of twists and turns, lies and discoveries, and such an authentic feel to the setting; it was nothing short of amazing--one of the best Regencies I have ever read.
"In a way, holding him said more than words could."
And oh my god, the passionate sex scenes...they had me tingling and ecstatic in a way I very rarely become while reading books. I had to stop and ah...(this is embarrassing to say after being immersed in 1807 England, but) take care of needs...if you know what I mean. Which almost never happens during a book. *laughs and blushes in an embarrassed manner*
Moving right along...I honestly did not know how Henry and Richard were going to get out of the twisted situation they were in there for a while. And it was so wonderful to read a story in which the plot and characters are not cliches and do not follow convention, so that I had no idea where the story was going to go. I loved reading about this whole world, as well as the secondary characters, and I cannot wait for the the follow up book. Yay!
This work was utterly brilliant and engrossing, and just what I love in my historical romance! Highly recommended to all!
"In a way, holding him said more than words could."
And oh my god, the passionate sex scenes...they had me tingling and ecstatic in a way I very rarely become while reading books. I had to stop and ah...(this is embarrassing to say after being immersed in 1807 England, but) take care of needs...if you know what I mean. Which almost never happens during a book. *laughs and blushes in an embarrassed manner*
Moving right along...I honestly did not know how Henry and Richard were going to get out of the twisted situation they were in there for a while. And it was so wonderful to read a story in which the plot and characters are not cliches and do not follow convention, so that I had no idea where the story was going to go. I loved reading about this whole world, as well as the secondary characters, and I cannot wait for the the follow up book. Yay!
This work was utterly brilliant and engrossing, and just what I love in my historical romance! Highly recommended to all!
March 24, 2017
What a lovely surprise this book is! This seems to be the first "original" (i.e. not fan fiction) book by this author and it is really well done.
Usually I’m not really into pure romance but this works just fine for me because the plot involves enough twists and turns to keep it interesting. The story is pretty much character-driven, the only external force influencing it being the demands of society in this historical setting.
The MCs are likeable but far from perfect, even though most of the conflict arises from the characters’ (especially Henry’s) desire to "do the right thing", which – of course – can only lead to heartache. Ah, I like my characters flawed. (Why is it that I like having the urge to slap MCs occasionally?)
Also, not only the MCs but the side characters too are well fleshed-out and human with depth to their characters that makes them a lot more than devices to drive the plot forward.
So, this is a lovely book which kept me emotionally engaged and rooting for the characters. Recommended!
Usually I’m not really into pure romance but this works just fine for me because the plot involves enough twists and turns to keep it interesting. The story is pretty much character-driven, the only external force influencing it being the demands of society in this historical setting.
The MCs are likeable but far from perfect, even though most of the conflict arises from the characters’ (especially Henry’s) desire to "do the right thing", which – of course – can only lead to heartache. Ah, I like my characters flawed. (Why is it that I like having the urge to slap MCs occasionally?)
Also, not only the MCs but the side characters too are well fleshed-out and human with depth to their characters that makes them a lot more than devices to drive the plot forward.
So, this is a lovely book which kept me emotionally engaged and rooting for the characters. Recommended!
August 17, 2014
http://watch-and-word-society.blogspot.com/2014/08/book-review-one-indulgence.html
4.75 This is a stay up all nighter, for sure!
This novel starts off with a super romantic, hot and sexy hook that had me completely bought into these characters. I felt the romantic connection between these two men, and I found it to be very believable and palpable as the story progressed. I was immediately drawn to Henry and Richard, and I loved every moment of their journey. I started it this morning and I could not put it down. I kept checking the amount left on my kindle, hoping that it wasn't going by too quickly!
I loved Henry's shy awkwardness and Richard's strength coupled with his desire for love and real connection. Henry is a man caught in a very challenging position, and Richard is a man struggling to keep his outward charm intact, while dealing with the loneliness his situation and brother have heaped on him. It makes sense that these two men find each other, as they each fill a need for each other. Richard needs love and care, and to receive the same from his lover, in a time where men rarely meet for love or commitment. Henry is alone in the world, trying to distance himself from the fear he has about himself, and attempting to embrace the duty that has been instilled in him since birth.
Gastrell did a great job of writing complex secondary characters that evolved and developed as the story progressed. When I was sure I had someone pegged as nothing but a bad guy, Gastrell showed a side of them that gave me a whole new perspective. From peers to family members, these secondaries really enhanced the story for me. I think it really worked that one of these amazing secondaries also helps to teach Richard that there is a way for him to be in love and happy.
Gastrell created a wonderful glimpse into the men of the ton who struggled to find their own paths to love. This was one of this stories that grabs ahold of you and won't let go, and you will enjoy every moment. I truly want to see more of these men, and see how they find their way. If I could change anything, it would be that I'd want a longer, more developed ending, but since they get their HFN/HEA, I think it is mostly just a desire for even more of this great story!
Highly Recommended! If you love Regency MM, or any great MM story, this is for you!
A free copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This review is posted on Goodreads.
4.75 This is a stay up all nighter, for sure!
This novel starts off with a super romantic, hot and sexy hook that had me completely bought into these characters. I felt the romantic connection between these two men, and I found it to be very believable and palpable as the story progressed. I was immediately drawn to Henry and Richard, and I loved every moment of their journey. I started it this morning and I could not put it down. I kept checking the amount left on my kindle, hoping that it wasn't going by too quickly!
I loved Henry's shy awkwardness and Richard's strength coupled with his desire for love and real connection. Henry is a man caught in a very challenging position, and Richard is a man struggling to keep his outward charm intact, while dealing with the loneliness his situation and brother have heaped on him. It makes sense that these two men find each other, as they each fill a need for each other. Richard needs love and care, and to receive the same from his lover, in a time where men rarely meet for love or commitment. Henry is alone in the world, trying to distance himself from the fear he has about himself, and attempting to embrace the duty that has been instilled in him since birth.
Gastrell did a great job of writing complex secondary characters that evolved and developed as the story progressed. When I was sure I had someone pegged as nothing but a bad guy, Gastrell showed a side of them that gave me a whole new perspective. From peers to family members, these secondaries really enhanced the story for me. I think it really worked that one of these amazing secondaries also helps to teach Richard that there is a way for him to be in love and happy.
Gastrell created a wonderful glimpse into the men of the ton who struggled to find their own paths to love. This was one of this stories that grabs ahold of you and won't let go, and you will enjoy every moment. I truly want to see more of these men, and see how they find their way. If I could change anything, it would be that I'd want a longer, more developed ending, but since they get their HFN/HEA, I think it is mostly just a desire for even more of this great story!
Highly Recommended! If you love Regency MM, or any great MM story, this is for you!
A free copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This review is posted on Goodreads.
October 25, 2014
I just love a good M/M regency romance! Even though I HATE the ton, I love this time period where the only things important are self image and social relationships.
I’m not going to rehash, the blurb…it does a good job setting up the story, but One Indulgence is your typical gay regency with all the common happenings:
1. Man has responsibility to provide an heir
2. Man visits brothel
3. Man falls for another man
4. Man denies love for other man
5. Man is betrothed to other man’s sister
6. Man comes to his senses and they all live happily ever after
…think of classic “Ava March” without all the kinks…
So, I don’t think the story actually provides anything new to historical romance, yet I loved every minute of it!
Why?
♦ The first 20% was VERY sexually intense! Ohmygod! The whole secret identity-first-time-virgin bit hit all my buttons. And the chemistry between Henry and Richard was spot on.
♦ It would have been too easy to dislike both Henry and Richard; they both had their faults and made stupid decisions. But it was those imperfections that had me loving them so much…screwing up and then having to fix their screw ups. It did get angsty there for a bit, and I wanted to slap Henry VERY hard…but he was able to redeemed himself nicely.
♦ It should have been hard for me to believe that Henry and Richard loved each other after only one night together and with all the mistrust, but somehow the author made me believe it. I’m such a sucker.
♦ There were so many great secondary characters that were hard for me not to love…like Anne, Julian and even Sam. (I NEVER saw that twist with Sam coming!) I did think it was odd to get some of their POVs at random times, but somehow it worked. Now I can’t wait for Julian and Sam to get a HEA. My question is: Will Julian and Sam get a HEA together?
In the end, nothing new, but I’m one who could still read this same story over and over again. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series!
4.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
I’m not going to rehash, the blurb…it does a good job setting up the story, but One Indulgence is your typical gay regency with all the common happenings:
1. Man has responsibility to provide an heir
2. Man visits brothel
3. Man falls for another man
4. Man denies love for other man
5. Man is betrothed to other man’s sister
6. Man comes to his senses and they all live happily ever after
…think of classic “Ava March” without all the kinks…
So, I don’t think the story actually provides anything new to historical romance, yet I loved every minute of it!
Why?
♦ The first 20% was VERY sexually intense! Ohmygod! The whole secret identity-first-time-virgin bit hit all my buttons. And the chemistry between Henry and Richard was spot on.
♦ It would have been too easy to dislike both Henry and Richard; they both had their faults and made stupid decisions. But it was those imperfections that had me loving them so much…screwing up and then having to fix their screw ups. It did get angsty there for a bit, and I wanted to slap Henry VERY hard…but he was able to redeemed himself nicely.
♦ It should have been hard for me to believe that Henry and Richard loved each other after only one night together and with all the mistrust, but somehow the author made me believe it. I’m such a sucker.
“What I am going to do is simple,” Richard continued. “I am going to win you.”
“W-what?” Henry balked.
“I am going to win you. Convince you.”
Henry shuddered as Richard leaned against him, his warm lips grazing over Henry’s ear. “I am gong to court you, Lord Brenleigh.”
♦ There were so many great secondary characters that were hard for me not to love…like Anne, Julian and even Sam. (I NEVER saw that twist with Sam coming!) I did think it was odd to get some of their POVs at random times, but somehow it worked. Now I can’t wait for Julian and Sam to get a HEA. My question is: Will Julian and Sam get a HEA together?
In the end, nothing new, but I’m one who could still read this same story over and over again. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series!
4.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
September 14, 2014
A lovely debut book by this author; a historical romantic drama with humor mixed in to lighten the seemingly impossible situations the characters find themselves in. The characters are all realistic, with flaws and prone to misunderstandings, but without being stupid. The side characters also have their own stories and personalities. No one felt shallow and empty.
The story itself is simple, but the way it's told is captivating and I just wanted to know what would happen next. Sometimes I was afraid to turn to the next page because I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was never disappointed.
All in all a very good book that I can recommend to anyone who's feeling romantic.
The story itself is simple, but the way it's told is captivating and I just wanted to know what would happen next. Sometimes I was afraid to turn to the next page because I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was never disappointed.
All in all a very good book that I can recommend to anyone who's feeling romantic.
January 2, 2023
2.5 stars. Since I read this mostly because the sequel was recommended to me, I didn't really have any expectations. And while the book was an okay read, I wasn't too impressed either. I didn't feel like the relationship between Richard and Henry was developed enough, and I felt like they barely ever communicated so it was hard to feel more than surface-level chemistry between them. I didn't necessarily mind the multiple POVs but I felt like the book could easily have told the same information from only Richard and Henry's POVs. The POVs were probably my main gripe of the book, as I felt that I sometimes didn't get to see a characters thought process until it was too late for me to really understand and sympathize with their decisions, and the epilogue switched POVs a whopping 9 times in 10 pages. If the relationship between Richard and Henry was developed more at the start I probably would have enjoyed this book more, but as it stood I struggled to feel engaged.
May 15, 2016
With the Season about to begin, Henry decides to give into his attraction to men for one night. He visits a brothel known for fulfilling all kinds of requests. Aside from losing his virginity, his one condition is that his partner cannot be a prostitute. Instead, his partner must be one of the patrons.
After a fight with his lover leading to a break-up, Richard decides to visit that very same brothel and volunteers to show Henry a good time...
Y'all, I cannot believe that I actually managed to finish this book. Mainly because this is one of those of times in everything was, well, it was something. Allow me to briefly point out the ways this book failed.
- Mediocre writing
This book was so generic that I nearly fell asleep while reading it. Characters have "cornflower blue" eyes and "dark chesnut brown" hair (yawn). There is an attempt to frame the story in the style of a Regency novel, but it's so poorly done that you can feel how much the book struggles with trying to make it work.
It's not that I wanted the "story of the century". I'm usually OK with even the most well-known tropes. This book, however, had close to nothing that could catch my attention and hold it.
Also, even though we do get dual POVs, there is some random head-hopping occurring within each chapter. Very distracting.
- Insta-love
There's a point in which Henry and Richard realize how much emotion and love they're feeling for one another...and all they've done at that point is kiss. I remember thinking "whoa, you might want to slow down with the sweeping adoration 'cause you've only made out for a bit and it's only Chapter 2!"
Of course, there's a lot of "we must never be together again" followed by, yup, Henry and Richard running into each other at balls and masquarades. And, well, it rung hollow. So by the time Richard decides to declare his intentions to court Henry (secretly, of course 'cause homosexuality is a crime in the time this novel takes place), all I could think was "big deal".
- Misunderstandings EVERYWHERE
Suffice to say that there were too many to mention and I became more and more annoyed as I read this book.
Secrets and their reveals are also a big plot point. Again, I was incredibly unimpressed (even though there were some good female characters and a couple of side (male) characters that I wanted to see more of).
TL;DR: SUPER BORING faux-Regency/Historical romance about two dudes. I finished it out of sheer stubbornness. Please don't make the same mistake. NOT recommended.
After a fight with his lover leading to a break-up, Richard decides to visit that very same brothel and volunteers to show Henry a good time...
Y'all, I cannot believe that I actually managed to finish this book. Mainly because this is one of those of times in everything was, well, it was something. Allow me to briefly point out the ways this book failed.
- Mediocre writing
This book was so generic that I nearly fell asleep while reading it. Characters have "cornflower blue" eyes and "dark chesnut brown" hair (yawn). There is an attempt to frame the story in the style of a Regency novel, but it's so poorly done that you can feel how much the book struggles with trying to make it work.
It's not that I wanted the "story of the century". I'm usually OK with even the most well-known tropes. This book, however, had close to nothing that could catch my attention and hold it.
Also, even though we do get dual POVs, there is some random head-hopping occurring within each chapter. Very distracting.
- Insta-love
There's a point in which Henry and Richard realize how much emotion and love they're feeling for one another...and all they've done at that point is kiss. I remember thinking "whoa, you might want to slow down with the sweeping adoration 'cause you've only made out for a bit and it's only Chapter 2!"
Of course, there's a lot of "we must never be together again" followed by, yup, Henry and Richard running into each other at balls and masquarades. And, well, it rung hollow. So by the time Richard decides to declare his intentions to court Henry (secretly, of course 'cause homosexuality is a crime in the time this novel takes place), all I could think was "big deal".
- Misunderstandings EVERYWHERE
Suffice to say that there were too many to mention and I became more and more annoyed as I read this book.
Secrets and their reveals are also a big plot point. Again, I was incredibly unimpressed (even though there were some good female characters and a couple of side (male) characters that I wanted to see more of).
TL;DR: SUPER BORING faux-Regency/Historical romance about two dudes. I finished it out of sheer stubbornness. Please don't make the same mistake. NOT recommended.
September 24, 2014
I usually don't go for new authors until enough people have read them and there are a lot of reviews to go by. One of my friends who really likes Ava March's stuff recommended this though. I'm glad they did. I really liked this one. I think in MM romance realism is the hardest thing. Pretty often, anything with a happily ever after feels artificial, yet the opposite feels overly miserably like the author was trying to make some political point. You don't see either here. Both MCs, Richard and Henry, are not perfect and have their hangups. I'm so sick of these "perfect" characters that feel crafted to make every reader love them. If there isn't something about an MC I don't like, it feels fake. Anyway, this was one of those "read it in 12 hours" books for me. Make sure you have some spare time, because each chapter just leaves you wanting to keep reading.
August 20, 2014
If you’re a fan of historical romance then this wee gem will definitely hit you where you live. Its absolutely delicious introduction to Henry and Richard (I am such a sucker for awkward/virginal characters) will draw you into their world and keep you riveted. Their story was sexy, romantic… and, more importantly, incredibly believable. What I really enjoyed with this story were the fully realized secondary characters who provided the perfect amount of foil and angst without becoming caricatures or unnecessarily over-the-top villains; they were, instead, delightfully human.
April 17, 2016
Not awful, but after a promising opening, the character development halted abruptly, and the narrative drive became split between too many minor characters (the hero's fiancée's spurned lover's sister, the other hero's ex-lover's new lover). The plot depended on both insta-love and some historical machinations, which took away from a sense of "agency" on the part of the principal characters. The writing wasn't bad, and the sense of period was on the good side, but I don't think I'll look out for more by this author.
December 10, 2015
4.5 stars.
Stayed up all night reading this...
I'm so kicking myself for not reading this book sooner. It was everything I love in a regency romance, complete with angst and heartbreak. **sighs** It was delicious from beginning to end.
The only reason I don't round up to 5 stars is Henry. He of soft and kind blue eyes (total false advertising there!) who behaved like a complete jerk for most of the book. I have a big love/hate thing for him.
Can't wait to read the next book!
Stayed up all night reading this...
I'm so kicking myself for not reading this book sooner. It was everything I love in a regency romance, complete with angst and heartbreak. **sighs** It was delicious from beginning to end.
The only reason I don't round up to 5 stars is Henry. He of soft and kind blue eyes (total false advertising there!) who behaved like a complete jerk for most of the book. I have a big love/hate thing for him.
Can't wait to read the next book!
October 10, 2018
Loved this story!
I loved the romance story between Henry & Richard. Some think Richard is a stalker but I disagree. He is enamored with Henry after that first encounter and set out to woo him.
I want more stories in the series: Julian & Ev.
10/10/2018: I’ve re-read this story several times. I can’t wait for the next books!
I loved the romance story between Henry & Richard. Some think Richard is a stalker but I disagree. He is enamored with Henry after that first encounter and set out to woo him.
I want more stories in the series: Julian & Ev.
10/10/2018: I’ve re-read this story several times. I can’t wait for the next books!
November 14, 2015
Regency romances are not easy to come by in the male/male romance genre and I was delighted to enter the world of the ton, courtesy of this splendid slice-of-life story about a young earl who is intent on capitulating to his secret desire before committing to his impending nuptials. The premise of this book is quite marvelous and the author’s luscious play-by-play style made for a fascinating, escape-to-another-world read. Impressive!
Blue-eyed male ingénue Earl Henry Courtland discreetly enters a mollyhouse to experience forbidden passion for his first and only time and hooks up with a seasoned veteran of the hidden desire game. Lord Richard Avery’s quarrel with his steady lover has him entering said mollyhouse to assuage his upset and lust with a talented professional. When his favorite pro is otherwise occupied, Richard allows himself to be coaxed to the bedroom of a secretive novice and is intrigued by the charming virgin that is Henry Cortland.
The subsequent 252 pages read like an episodic PBS drama plied with all of the best of both the male/male romance and regency romance genres, namely great romance, a swell plot, and hot sex. Exceptional and entertaining, this character-driven story is made richer by the inclusion of a wonderful cast of supporting characters and the author’s skillful hand at the language and attributes of the class-conscious world of British aristocracy. Terrific dialogue and captivating scenes of the ton at leisure are beautifully woven throughout the trials and tribulations of Richard and Henry’s escalating romance, and the overall tale plays out equal parts hot, humorous, and exceedingly clever.
Smart and handsome, Richard and Henry are easy to love and their interactions with each other and the supporting cast had me devouring the pages trying to guess at how they could make their relationship work. An abundance of intriguing obstacles, devious schemes, and calamitous misunderstandings enliven their romance and gave the supporting cast opportunity to shine. And shine they did; I am happy to say that this book is the first in a series for I should love to read more about Julian and Samuel Shaw in particular.
Lush scene changes and smart world building added to the captivating, step-out-of-time quality of the story. Gambling dens, society balls, and spectacular gardens complete with nook-filled mazes were second only to the air of gossip and scandal that lent credence to the colorful descriptions of carriage rides, horsemanship, and the overall sporting life of the fashion-conscious gentry. A tremendous story that is sure to please lovers of traditional and gay romance alike. I think the phrase “guilty pleasure” applies because I’m reaching for the next in the series right now and I should be working.
Thank you, Lydia Gastrell, for this exciting entry to the world of romance.
“Dashing, Daring, and simply Delightful!”
NOTE: This book was provided by Loose Id for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Blue-eyed male ingénue Earl Henry Courtland discreetly enters a mollyhouse to experience forbidden passion for his first and only time and hooks up with a seasoned veteran of the hidden desire game. Lord Richard Avery’s quarrel with his steady lover has him entering said mollyhouse to assuage his upset and lust with a talented professional. When his favorite pro is otherwise occupied, Richard allows himself to be coaxed to the bedroom of a secretive novice and is intrigued by the charming virgin that is Henry Cortland.
The subsequent 252 pages read like an episodic PBS drama plied with all of the best of both the male/male romance and regency romance genres, namely great romance, a swell plot, and hot sex. Exceptional and entertaining, this character-driven story is made richer by the inclusion of a wonderful cast of supporting characters and the author’s skillful hand at the language and attributes of the class-conscious world of British aristocracy. Terrific dialogue and captivating scenes of the ton at leisure are beautifully woven throughout the trials and tribulations of Richard and Henry’s escalating romance, and the overall tale plays out equal parts hot, humorous, and exceedingly clever.
Smart and handsome, Richard and Henry are easy to love and their interactions with each other and the supporting cast had me devouring the pages trying to guess at how they could make their relationship work. An abundance of intriguing obstacles, devious schemes, and calamitous misunderstandings enliven their romance and gave the supporting cast opportunity to shine. And shine they did; I am happy to say that this book is the first in a series for I should love to read more about Julian and Samuel Shaw in particular.
Lush scene changes and smart world building added to the captivating, step-out-of-time quality of the story. Gambling dens, society balls, and spectacular gardens complete with nook-filled mazes were second only to the air of gossip and scandal that lent credence to the colorful descriptions of carriage rides, horsemanship, and the overall sporting life of the fashion-conscious gentry. A tremendous story that is sure to please lovers of traditional and gay romance alike. I think the phrase “guilty pleasure” applies because I’m reaching for the next in the series right now and I should be working.
Thank you, Lydia Gastrell, for this exciting entry to the world of romance.
“Dashing, Daring, and simply Delightful!”
NOTE: This book was provided by Loose Id for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 28, 2014
This is a darn good historical romance, but if you aren't willing to put up with the frustrating realities of that time, better you probably don't read it. Today we're real used to the whole "I'll do what I want, fuck the world" mentality, and that's great, but it's a modern luxury. These guys faced prison, impoverishment, and even execution for getting caught with other men. When you add that to all the stresses even straight people faced at that time from society's demands, I think most of us can't really fathom how caged those people were.
SPOILERS BELOW!
Because of all those stresses and the "realities," I really liked how this one turned out. The author takes pity and gives us our HEA (thanks for that, by the way!), but she does in such a way that it's only the happy circumstances around them that make it possible. In other words, they don't end up happy just because they "decided to" or because they "were just that determined." Instead, they end up together and happy only because it turns out that Henry doesn't have to get married and have a son because his cousin isn't the wastrel he thought he was. We can see, pretty clearly, that if Henry's cousins had indeed been the drunken spendthrift Henry always thought he was, Henry and Richard would not have ended up together because Henry still would have faced that problem--"How can I let this horrible cousin inherit everything and ruin my family?"
In other words, I like how the HEA was sort of taken out of the main characters' hands. It shows that if just one thing had been different (Henry's cousin), this story would have had a very different ending. That feels real, like something that could have actually happened, because at that time I just can't see some aristocrat like Henry throwing his whole family and legacy to the wind just so he can have a private relationship with Richard. That would have made Henry pretty unlikable, in fact. Glad it didn't go that way.
SPOILERS BELOW!
Because of all those stresses and the "realities," I really liked how this one turned out. The author takes pity and gives us our HEA (thanks for that, by the way!), but she does in such a way that it's only the happy circumstances around them that make it possible. In other words, they don't end up happy just because they "decided to" or because they "were just that determined." Instead, they end up together and happy only because it turns out that Henry doesn't have to get married and have a son because his cousin isn't the wastrel he thought he was. We can see, pretty clearly, that if Henry's cousins had indeed been the drunken spendthrift Henry always thought he was, Henry and Richard would not have ended up together because Henry still would have faced that problem--"How can I let this horrible cousin inherit everything and ruin my family?"
In other words, I like how the HEA was sort of taken out of the main characters' hands. It shows that if just one thing had been different (Henry's cousin), this story would have had a very different ending. That feels real, like something that could have actually happened, because at that time I just can't see some aristocrat like Henry throwing his whole family and legacy to the wind just so he can have a private relationship with Richard. That would have made Henry pretty unlikable, in fact. Glad it didn't go that way.
November 8, 2015
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4.5 Stars
Genre: Historical Romance | MM Romance | Heat Level: HOT. NOT redundant and thrown in for page count | 100% story & character driven | Complex side characters finding their own path to HEA | Historically authentic? I believe so. It was an easy read, flowed fast, and was written well. & I felt the historical elements were accurate |
One Indulgence was a surprise, as I had no idea what to expect when I began reading. I was hooked from page one. Henry and Richard were very human in their inner monologue and actions and reactions. Both a victim of circumstance of the era. Henry was not free to be who he was, everything being dictated to him by a misguided sense of loyalty. Richard, while not bound to as many obligations of the times, he wasn't free either.
I enjoyed the realistic struggle, not the characters against each other but struggling within themselves as well as against society. As the story unfolds, the readers will be drawn to Richard and slightly put-off by Henry. Henry's actions, while they could be perceived as annoying and daft, were highly realistic.
One Indulgence was a deliciously angsty read, perfect for those who love Historical Romance. Not only a MM Romance, but well-rounded with many side characters reaching out to find their own bit of happiness.
Will I read more by this author? At 20% into One Indulgence, I begged for book #2 to review. Now I wait impatiently.
4.5 Stars
Genre: Historical Romance | MM Romance | Heat Level: HOT. NOT redundant and thrown in for page count | 100% story & character driven | Complex side characters finding their own path to HEA | Historically authentic? I believe so. It was an easy read, flowed fast, and was written well. & I felt the historical elements were accurate |
One Indulgence was a surprise, as I had no idea what to expect when I began reading. I was hooked from page one. Henry and Richard were very human in their inner monologue and actions and reactions. Both a victim of circumstance of the era. Henry was not free to be who he was, everything being dictated to him by a misguided sense of loyalty. Richard, while not bound to as many obligations of the times, he wasn't free either.
I enjoyed the realistic struggle, not the characters against each other but struggling within themselves as well as against society. As the story unfolds, the readers will be drawn to Richard and slightly put-off by Henry. Henry's actions, while they could be perceived as annoying and daft, were highly realistic.
One Indulgence was a deliciously angsty read, perfect for those who love Historical Romance. Not only a MM Romance, but well-rounded with many side characters reaching out to find their own bit of happiness.
Will I read more by this author? At 20% into One Indulgence, I begged for book #2 to review. Now I wait impatiently.
December 8, 2015
This was such a delightful read for me. Not only were the characters well-drawn and engaging but the relationship that grows between Henry and Richard was so charmingly angst-ridden. Which sounds odd, I know, but there's just something to be said for seeing realistic characters struggle with not only who and what they are but who and what they want.
For Henry, it was a struggle between doing his "duty" and finding a wife, versus being who he truly was and caring about who he truly cared about. For Richard, it was finding someone he really, truly gave a damn about versus Henry's own struggles. Throw in some former lovers (or would-be lovers, as the case may be), an arranged engagement, and a handful of romantic interludes and, well, you can see why I enjoyed it so much.
That said, it wasn't a perfect read. There were a few instances where I felt like the story got lost in itself, with scenes either dragging or not really advancing the plot. Also, there were far too few scenes between Henry and Richard alone, in my opinion. Sure, they had a few interludes here and there and they often ran into each other, whether by design or accidentally, but I felt like they deserved more time together without other characters intruding in.
Even so, though, this was definitely a great read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
For Henry, it was a struggle between doing his "duty" and finding a wife, versus being who he truly was and caring about who he truly cared about. For Richard, it was finding someone he really, truly gave a damn about versus Henry's own struggles. Throw in some former lovers (or would-be lovers, as the case may be), an arranged engagement, and a handful of romantic interludes and, well, you can see why I enjoyed it so much.
That said, it wasn't a perfect read. There were a few instances where I felt like the story got lost in itself, with scenes either dragging or not really advancing the plot. Also, there were far too few scenes between Henry and Richard alone, in my opinion. Sure, they had a few interludes here and there and they often ran into each other, whether by design or accidentally, but I felt like they deserved more time together without other characters intruding in.
Even so, though, this was definitely a great read and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
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