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Treading the Boards #1
Rite of Summer
There are terrors worse than stage fright. Like falling in love.
Violinist Stephen Ashbrook is passionate about three things—his music, the excitement of life in London, and his lover, Evander Cade. It’s too bad that Evander only loves himself. A house party at their patron’s beautiful country estate seems like a chance for Stephen to remember who he is, when he’s not trying to live up to someone else’s harsh expectations.
Joshua Beaufort, a painter whose works are very much in demand among the right sort of people, has no expectations about this party at all. Until, that is, he finds out who else is on the guest list. Joshua swore off love long ago, but has been infatuated with Stephen since seeing his brilliant performance at Vauxhall. Now he has the chance to meet the object of his lust face to face—and more.
But changing an open relationship to a triad is a lot more complicated than it seems, and while Evander’s trying to climb the social ladder, Stephen’s trying to climb Joshua. When the dust settles, only two will remain standing…when they’re not flat on their backs.
Contents under pressure. Contains three men, two beds, one erotic piercing, and the hottest six weeks of summer the nineteenth century has ever seen. (m/m/m - m/m)
Violinist Stephen Ashbrook is passionate about three things—his music, the excitement of life in London, and his lover, Evander Cade. It’s too bad that Evander only loves himself. A house party at their patron’s beautiful country estate seems like a chance for Stephen to remember who he is, when he’s not trying to live up to someone else’s harsh expectations.
Joshua Beaufort, a painter whose works are very much in demand among the right sort of people, has no expectations about this party at all. Until, that is, he finds out who else is on the guest list. Joshua swore off love long ago, but has been infatuated with Stephen since seeing his brilliant performance at Vauxhall. Now he has the chance to meet the object of his lust face to face—and more.
But changing an open relationship to a triad is a lot more complicated than it seems, and while Evander’s trying to climb the social ladder, Stephen’s trying to climb Joshua. When the dust settles, only two will remain standing…when they’re not flat on their backs.
Contents under pressure. Contains three men, two beds, one erotic piercing, and the hottest six weeks of summer the nineteenth century has ever seen. (m/m/m - m/m)
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2015
12 people are currently reading
498 people want to read
About the author
Tess Bowery
4 books138 followersTess has been a fan of historical fiction since learning the Greek and Roman myths at her mother's knee. Now let loose on a computer, she's spinning her own tales of romance and passion in a slightly more modern setting. Tess lives on the east coast, with her partner of fifteen years and two cats who should have been named 'Writer's Block' and 'Get Off the Keyboard, Dammit.'
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
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December 16, 2015I really enjoyed this. It's very sex-heavy, which is fine and well done, though I honestly felt it would have worked with less. Stephen and Joshua are both lovely characters, and Stephen's relationship with Evander is very well done. What's super special about this is the historical grounding, though. All the MCs are artists, not aristos, and the Georgian gay underworld is really well delineated. I don't think I've seen the Vere Street Coterie mentioned in a romance before now, and the consequences of that ghastly (offpage) event are brilliantly worked through. Really solid read from an exciting new to me author.
Could have been tighter overall, IMO, but it's an admirable erotic romance and strong historical, and I'm preordering the f/f/m book 2 right now. She Whom I Love
Could have been tighter overall, IMO, but it's an admirable erotic romance and strong historical, and I'm preordering the f/f/m book 2 right now. She Whom I Love
November 6, 2016
I enjoyed this historical romance, particularly for the grounding in the historical gay society of the era. I appreciated the way historical events like arrests and punishments of those caught out in sodomy, were shown to have a devastating effect on the men to whom they were casual friends, and perhaps past sex partners. And a chilling effect on any gay man of the era.
The romance proceeds slowly, and felt realistic. I liked that the men weren't wealthy or powerful, but ordinary starving artist types, unable to just brush aside propriety but yet living in a social level where gay men had known meeting places. At the book opens, Stephen and Evander have been together for years, but they are beginning to want different things out of relationships, and possibly out of life. When they meet up with Joshua at a country house party, deeper cracks in their togetherness begin to develop.
Both of them are attracted to Joshua. Evander is still chasing a hedonistic private life, camouflaged by a public life of compromises and appearances. He's used to being pursued, admired, and catered to. Stephen is becoming disillusioned by that, and is starting to think further ahead. But their careers are so deeply entwined that that separating would mean untangling the bulk of their affairs, and then somehow trying to have equal success in a cold world on their own. So change is scary, especially with the police raids fresh in the news. The risk of discovery hangs as a pall over them, neither melodramatic, nor absent.
Joshua is a quieter man, one who thought his life would be just his art. Meeting these two opens his eyes, and changes his goals. But at heart his ambition is still small - a simple life, with his art, and maybe now, with a companion of his choosing. Getting there safely will be the trick. The ending is positive, and plausible.
The romance proceeds slowly, and felt realistic. I liked that the men weren't wealthy or powerful, but ordinary starving artist types, unable to just brush aside propriety but yet living in a social level where gay men had known meeting places. At the book opens, Stephen and Evander have been together for years, but they are beginning to want different things out of relationships, and possibly out of life. When they meet up with Joshua at a country house party, deeper cracks in their togetherness begin to develop.
Both of them are attracted to Joshua. Evander is still chasing a hedonistic private life, camouflaged by a public life of compromises and appearances. He's used to being pursued, admired, and catered to. Stephen is becoming disillusioned by that, and is starting to think further ahead. But their careers are so deeply entwined that that separating would mean untangling the bulk of their affairs, and then somehow trying to have equal success in a cold world on their own. So change is scary, especially with the police raids fresh in the news. The risk of discovery hangs as a pall over them, neither melodramatic, nor absent.
Joshua is a quieter man, one who thought his life would be just his art. Meeting these two opens his eyes, and changes his goals. But at heart his ambition is still small - a simple life, with his art, and maybe now, with a companion of his choosing. Getting there safely will be the trick. The ending is positive, and plausible.
March 4, 2016
I really enjoyed this historical M/M/M romance. London 1810.
Evander and Stephen have been together for nearly a decade, living the gay life in London. Evander is a composer and Stephen a violinist. Evander has a patron, the Earl of Coventry who invites Evander and Stephen for a six week holiday at his country estate. Stephen doesn't want to go, he hates being confined in places where he can't be himself, and being openly gay is not possible on the earl's estate. Plus, he has to suffer the constant company of 'his betters' which is aggravating. But, if Evander demands he go, Stephen goes. Plus, Stephen knows their livelihood is dependent on Coventry's whim and funding so he goes... The only upside is beautiful Joshua, a talented painter who is the distant relation, and personal painter, of one of the noble guests.
Joshua has been without a lover since his beloved sailor sank with his ship two years before. He is terribly attracted to Stephen, and cannot understand why Stephen lets Evander lead him around so much. He is startled to observe Evander and Stephen en flagrante delicto in the dead of night, and is even more surprised when Evander invites him to share their bed. Once.
But once is not enough for Stephen who had secretly desired Joshua, or Joshua. They continue until the party is overtaken by news of catamite (homosexuals) arrests in London. Stephen and Evander are shattered--some of the men taken into custody and hung were friends and former bedmates. Joshua wants to comfort Stephen, but his ability to do so is hampered by the suspicions of their hosts and patrons.
The book is a careful study in the emotional lives of both Joshua and Stephen, who share the POV. Stephen is routinely belittled and abused by Evander, and he knows no other life. Joshua calls to Stephen, supports him in a way Evander never has (or hasn't in years) and Stephen wants to be with Joshua, but cannot due to Evander's control.
I was really glad to see the unraveling in this dysfunctional relationship. Stephen really grew in terms of his emotional well-being. Joshua, did not grow so much as curl inside himself. He has lost in love before, and is rather brutal with Stephen in order to prevent being hurt again. He wants Stephen terribly, but won't accept him if Evander is a part of the deal--forcing Stephen to re-evaluate his relationship, and make choices that are healthy instead of comfortable.
The end was a little too drawn out for me. I liked the story, but wanted it to progress a little bit faster. The characters were all well-drawn and felt very realistic in their goals and behaviors. I really enjoyed the depictions of actual historical events--namely the famous London raids--and how it affected the characters. Expect an HEA and some super sexytimes involving both M/M and M/M/M.
I received a revoew copy of this book via NetGalley.
Evander and Stephen have been together for nearly a decade, living the gay life in London. Evander is a composer and Stephen a violinist. Evander has a patron, the Earl of Coventry who invites Evander and Stephen for a six week holiday at his country estate. Stephen doesn't want to go, he hates being confined in places where he can't be himself, and being openly gay is not possible on the earl's estate. Plus, he has to suffer the constant company of 'his betters' which is aggravating. But, if Evander demands he go, Stephen goes. Plus, Stephen knows their livelihood is dependent on Coventry's whim and funding so he goes... The only upside is beautiful Joshua, a talented painter who is the distant relation, and personal painter, of one of the noble guests.
Joshua has been without a lover since his beloved sailor sank with his ship two years before. He is terribly attracted to Stephen, and cannot understand why Stephen lets Evander lead him around so much. He is startled to observe Evander and Stephen en flagrante delicto in the dead of night, and is even more surprised when Evander invites him to share their bed. Once.
But once is not enough for Stephen who had secretly desired Joshua, or Joshua. They continue until the party is overtaken by news of catamite (homosexuals) arrests in London. Stephen and Evander are shattered--some of the men taken into custody and hung were friends and former bedmates. Joshua wants to comfort Stephen, but his ability to do so is hampered by the suspicions of their hosts and patrons.
The book is a careful study in the emotional lives of both Joshua and Stephen, who share the POV. Stephen is routinely belittled and abused by Evander, and he knows no other life. Joshua calls to Stephen, supports him in a way Evander never has (or hasn't in years) and Stephen wants to be with Joshua, but cannot due to Evander's control.
I was really glad to see the unraveling in this dysfunctional relationship. Stephen really grew in terms of his emotional well-being. Joshua, did not grow so much as curl inside himself. He has lost in love before, and is rather brutal with Stephen in order to prevent being hurt again. He wants Stephen terribly, but won't accept him if Evander is a part of the deal--forcing Stephen to re-evaluate his relationship, and make choices that are healthy instead of comfortable.
The end was a little too drawn out for me. I liked the story, but wanted it to progress a little bit faster. The characters were all well-drawn and felt very realistic in their goals and behaviors. I really enjoyed the depictions of actual historical events--namely the famous London raids--and how it affected the characters. Expect an HEA and some super sexytimes involving both M/M and M/M/M.
I received a revoew copy of this book via NetGalley.
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September 20, 2016If you don’t like open relationships in romance novels, this one is not for you. I loved Tess Bowery’s story of two boyhood friends who have been making their way in the world as a composer/violinist partnership and somewhat rocky romantic pairing too, until they meet an artist whose temporary addition to their bed changes everything. Bowery does a terrific job up ratcheting up the tension by including news of a real-life police raid that resulted in the arrests of dozens of gay men, and the deaths of several. I was freaking out for chapters on end, terrified someone I loved was going to die. I’m a fan of pretty much anything historical that either focuses on people who aren’t lord/ladies or manages to convince me of a realistic HEA for LGBTQ MCs. That book did both! Top notch.
May 21, 2016
Three stars. Not saying this was bad. It wasn’t. More like…it was okay but not exactly my cuppa. It’s a bit of a personal reminder that, with very few exceptions, I’m not a huge fan of Regency Romance or historicals in general.
***Mildly Spoilerish so hiding the rest***
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.
***Mildly Spoilerish so hiding the rest***
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.
May 18, 2015
I got an ARC from the author so I was lucky enough to get an early look. Now, interestingly Romances are not my thing, but I quickly got thoroughly engaged with the characters!
They read like real people. I didn't feel so much like I was being told a story as I was drawn in and experiencing it with them.
The history is well researched and realistic -including slang terms, professional jargon - Nothing pulled me out of the moment.
Joshua sounds like a professional artist (something I know something about) and Stephen like a professional musician (I have some second hand experience there too!) This extends to the others characters as well, nobody reads like a patchjob story push. Even extras are clearly experiencing their own stories that we only get teasing glimpses of!
Read this. Tess transports you somewhere like a lot of books I've read don't, even if you're not in it for the romance plot. I was there for the history and I wound up reading it twice. Loved it both times.
They read like real people. I didn't feel so much like I was being told a story as I was drawn in and experiencing it with them.
The history is well researched and realistic -including slang terms, professional jargon - Nothing pulled me out of the moment.
Joshua sounds like a professional artist (something I know something about) and Stephen like a professional musician (I have some second hand experience there too!) This extends to the others characters as well, nobody reads like a patchjob story push. Even extras are clearly experiencing their own stories that we only get teasing glimpses of!
Read this. Tess transports you somewhere like a lot of books I've read don't, even if you're not in it for the romance plot. I was there for the history and I wound up reading it twice. Loved it both times.
August 6, 2015
What I think I enjoyed most about this book was it was about average guys. Most period books I’ve read normally feature a Lord of the realm and a servant of some type. Or two Lords, but this was about two and then three different artist types trying to make a living and surviving as best they knew how. Even if it meant breaking a heart or two along the way.
The dynamic between the three is great. Stephan shows so much growth in the end you can’t help but love him. Evander, you want to dislike but truly you get the why’s and while he’s a pig, for treating Stephan that way, you get it. And Joshua opening his heart to have it broken… or did it?
The sexual chemistry right from the start is knock your socks off, and then we pick up that emotionally one and I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait to see what else this author has out there.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
The dynamic between the three is great. Stephan shows so much growth in the end you can’t help but love him. Evander, you want to dislike but truly you get the why’s and while he’s a pig, for treating Stephan that way, you get it. And Joshua opening his heart to have it broken… or did it?
The sexual chemistry right from the start is knock your socks off, and then we pick up that emotionally one and I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait to see what else this author has out there.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
June 29, 2018
“Never love anybody who treats you like you are ordinary.” ~ Oscar Wilde
Evander, of 'The Rite of Summer' by Tess Bowery, loves Stephen when they run away from home years ago, but as time goes on, he becomes more concerned about himself and being successful than anything else, including Stephen. Stephen knows Evander has changed—he chalks up his controlling ways to Evander's desire to make a “better man” out of him. Stephen is completely under his thumb When Evander is issued an invitation to spend part of the summer at an English manor, he jumps at the chance, not even considering what Stephen may want. What Evander doesn't realize is that he may be setting himself up to lose everything, including Stephen.
Joshua is a well established painter who is also invited to the manor. Joshua finds Stephen admiring one of his paintings, a self-portrait, on the wall. They strike up a conversation and Joshua tells him that he is a fan of Stephen's violin playing. This creates a bond of mutual appreciation, making it easy to become friends. Joshua does not like the condescending way Evander treats Stephen and points it out to him. Stephen brushes it off, defending Evander, saying he doesn't mean what he says. Joshua doesn't buy it, but, because he cares about Stephen, doesn't press it either. Joshua knows this is something Stephen has to realize for himself.
Joshua and Stephen's friendship soon grows into sexual interest but, even though Stephen has told Joshua he and Evander have an open relationship, Joshua assumes Evander will never allow him to be with Stephen. He's surprised when Evander invites him to their bed. Joshua doesn't want Evander, but does want to be with Stephen, so he accepts. What happens is some very hot sex between the three of them, but not without consequences. Predictably, Evander wants to be in control. Joshua defers to him, but after a few times together, it's also clear Evander can't be in charge all the time; so he refuses to be with either of them.
At this point, Stephen is experiencing a great deal of cognitive dissonance. He's so used to being under Evander's thumb, he's not sure what he would do without him. Joshua's positive attention has given Stephen pause, wondering how much of what Evander says is true, particularly about his talent as a violinist. After discovering even more damaging news concerning Evander's trespasses, Stephen and Evander have an awful fight. Evander tells Stephen they're through. Still fearing he will lose his music without Evander; Stephen compromises, deciding they can stay together, but as business partners only. Stephen isn't ready to let Joshua go, but Joshua makes it unequivocally clear; as long as Stephen is with Evander in any way, he and Stephen can't be together. Stephen leaves with a heavy heart, but with the seeds of dissent firmly implanted. In any circumstances, Steven is not the same person.
This is a well written historical romance and a history lesson at the same time. It's clear that Tess has done her research by how accurately she portrays the temperament of the time period. Tess seamlessly combines history and love, frequently through the emotions and attitudes of the characters, especially Stephen and his struggle making it through his rite-of-passage from a codependent, groveling shadow to a independent, strong young man. Those of you who love historical romances will revel in this one, and, possibly, even those who don't normally enjoy historical romances may want to contend with the flowery language to get to the incredibly sensual physicality portrayed in the characters' encounters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romance, erotic sexual encounters, suspense, sexy men, decadent behavior, and a happy ending. Thank you, Tess, for the exciting, sensual journey.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Evander, of 'The Rite of Summer' by Tess Bowery, loves Stephen when they run away from home years ago, but as time goes on, he becomes more concerned about himself and being successful than anything else, including Stephen. Stephen knows Evander has changed—he chalks up his controlling ways to Evander's desire to make a “better man” out of him. Stephen is completely under his thumb When Evander is issued an invitation to spend part of the summer at an English manor, he jumps at the chance, not even considering what Stephen may want. What Evander doesn't realize is that he may be setting himself up to lose everything, including Stephen.
Joshua is a well established painter who is also invited to the manor. Joshua finds Stephen admiring one of his paintings, a self-portrait, on the wall. They strike up a conversation and Joshua tells him that he is a fan of Stephen's violin playing. This creates a bond of mutual appreciation, making it easy to become friends. Joshua does not like the condescending way Evander treats Stephen and points it out to him. Stephen brushes it off, defending Evander, saying he doesn't mean what he says. Joshua doesn't buy it, but, because he cares about Stephen, doesn't press it either. Joshua knows this is something Stephen has to realize for himself.
Joshua and Stephen's friendship soon grows into sexual interest but, even though Stephen has told Joshua he and Evander have an open relationship, Joshua assumes Evander will never allow him to be with Stephen. He's surprised when Evander invites him to their bed. Joshua doesn't want Evander, but does want to be with Stephen, so he accepts. What happens is some very hot sex between the three of them, but not without consequences. Predictably, Evander wants to be in control. Joshua defers to him, but after a few times together, it's also clear Evander can't be in charge all the time; so he refuses to be with either of them.
At this point, Stephen is experiencing a great deal of cognitive dissonance. He's so used to being under Evander's thumb, he's not sure what he would do without him. Joshua's positive attention has given Stephen pause, wondering how much of what Evander says is true, particularly about his talent as a violinist. After discovering even more damaging news concerning Evander's trespasses, Stephen and Evander have an awful fight. Evander tells Stephen they're through. Still fearing he will lose his music without Evander; Stephen compromises, deciding they can stay together, but as business partners only. Stephen isn't ready to let Joshua go, but Joshua makes it unequivocally clear; as long as Stephen is with Evander in any way, he and Stephen can't be together. Stephen leaves with a heavy heart, but with the seeds of dissent firmly implanted. In any circumstances, Steven is not the same person.
This is a well written historical romance and a history lesson at the same time. It's clear that Tess has done her research by how accurately she portrays the temperament of the time period. Tess seamlessly combines history and love, frequently through the emotions and attitudes of the characters, especially Stephen and his struggle making it through his rite-of-passage from a codependent, groveling shadow to a independent, strong young man. Those of you who love historical romances will revel in this one, and, possibly, even those who don't normally enjoy historical romances may want to contend with the flowery language to get to the incredibly sensual physicality portrayed in the characters' encounters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes historical romance, erotic sexual encounters, suspense, sexy men, decadent behavior, and a happy ending. Thank you, Tess, for the exciting, sensual journey.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 6, 2015
I have to admit that I approached this novel with a little trepidation because M/M/M is well outside my reading comfort zone; however, I needn't have worried. The quality of Bowery's writing makes her subject matter engaging even to a novice of the genre. All the characters grabbed me from the beginning from Joshua, Stephen and Evander to more minor characters. In fact, one of the things I really loved about this story was the feeling that it did not exist in a vacuum. The protagonists were obviously narrowly focused on their own intrigue and feelings but on the edges of their consciousness was a fully realised world of people whose lives were just as interesting and vibrant. It was fun to speculate about what else was going on at that house party and it added to the intimacy of the relationships of the three men to feel they were surrounded by other stories that could be told. In another novel, perhaps their romance would have gone unnoticed. I really liked this; it made the story feel very intimate.
The relationship between the three men was very complex and Bowery resisted simplifying her characterisation which can sometimes happen in romance novels. The psychological realism here is very high and I could really feel for all the characters and their inner struggles. Evander was necessarily less sympathetic than Joshua and Stephen but he was nevertheless understandable - or maybe I just tend to like the less nice characters more! Either way, I appreciated that they were all complex human beings delicately navigating a complicated situation, rather making Evander a cartoon villain as could have been the temptation in a lesser novel. Bowery also has the ability to treat her characters with a light touch without trivialising them and I really appreciated the touches of humour, as well as the musical feeling throughout the story. Moreover, as a violinist, I really loved having a violinist as a hero!
It goes without saying that the sex scenes were extremely steamy but what was more impressive was that they served a function either to drive the narrative forward or to illuminate character and even though there were a lot of them, I never felt bored or that they were repetitive, another trap that lesser writers can fall into.
Overall, I am so glad I decided to step outside my comfort zone and read "Rite of Summer" and I can't wait for the second book in the series; Sophie was one of my favourite characters.
The relationship between the three men was very complex and Bowery resisted simplifying her characterisation which can sometimes happen in romance novels. The psychological realism here is very high and I could really feel for all the characters and their inner struggles. Evander was necessarily less sympathetic than Joshua and Stephen but he was nevertheless understandable - or maybe I just tend to like the less nice characters more! Either way, I appreciated that they were all complex human beings delicately navigating a complicated situation, rather making Evander a cartoon villain as could have been the temptation in a lesser novel. Bowery also has the ability to treat her characters with a light touch without trivialising them and I really appreciated the touches of humour, as well as the musical feeling throughout the story. Moreover, as a violinist, I really loved having a violinist as a hero!
It goes without saying that the sex scenes were extremely steamy but what was more impressive was that they served a function either to drive the narrative forward or to illuminate character and even though there were a lot of them, I never felt bored or that they were repetitive, another trap that lesser writers can fall into.
Overall, I am so glad I decided to step outside my comfort zone and read "Rite of Summer" and I can't wait for the second book in the series; Sophie was one of my favourite characters.
June 7, 2015
I cut my romance-reader teeth on Regency romances, albeit the ones with corsets and raven tresses, so when I find a delicious looking Regency featuring breeches and more breeches, I jump at the chance to read it.
I expected a light romp in the 19th century, but Bowery's tale was much more than that. Don't get me wrong, it was not at all light on the sex...and the sex was HOT. The many sex scenes from M/M/M to M/M left me feeling "...mmmmmm." They were great, and definitely fit the story appropriately.
What was done in this book that really set it apart for me was the attention to historical detail and to a historical mindset. I loved the struggle some characters had with gay sex as an action versus an identity. Could two men love each other? Was their connection only to be found through friendship and sex? I also was fascinated by the details about the legal and social risks these men faced. What must it have been like to see your peers and ex-lovers arrested and killed. How did that affect your feelings towards romance and love? What really impressed me was that Bowery investigated these very real issues and losses, but it was done in a way that never detracted from the romance between the main characters.
I really loved Stephen and Joshua, and I loved the details Bowery included when we were gifted from each man's POV (not through head hoping, but through their perspectives, and something so subtle as the names the men used to refer to each other (last names vs. first names) had such a powerful impact on understanding the evolution of their feelings for each other.
The details were so well done and so well woven into the story that they never pulled me from the romance which was front and center in this text. The whole time I was reading I had a hope of where the story would go, and it was granted even better than I could have hoped!
Don't miss a chance to read this great novel! You will not be at all disappointed!
I expected a light romp in the 19th century, but Bowery's tale was much more than that. Don't get me wrong, it was not at all light on the sex...and the sex was HOT. The many sex scenes from M/M/M to M/M left me feeling "...mmmmmm." They were great, and definitely fit the story appropriately.
What was done in this book that really set it apart for me was the attention to historical detail and to a historical mindset. I loved the struggle some characters had with gay sex as an action versus an identity. Could two men love each other? Was their connection only to be found through friendship and sex? I also was fascinated by the details about the legal and social risks these men faced. What must it have been like to see your peers and ex-lovers arrested and killed. How did that affect your feelings towards romance and love? What really impressed me was that Bowery investigated these very real issues and losses, but it was done in a way that never detracted from the romance between the main characters.
I really loved Stephen and Joshua, and I loved the details Bowery included when we were gifted from each man's POV (not through head hoping, but through their perspectives, and something so subtle as the names the men used to refer to each other (last names vs. first names) had such a powerful impact on understanding the evolution of their feelings for each other.
The details were so well done and so well woven into the story that they never pulled me from the romance which was front and center in this text. The whole time I was reading I had a hope of where the story would go, and it was granted even better than I could have hoped!
Don't miss a chance to read this great novel! You will not be at all disappointed!
Want to read
June 20, 2015"...and the hottest six weeks of summer the nineteenth century has ever seen."
*chuckles* Yes, please.
*chuckles* Yes, please.
January 17, 2022
3.5 stars, because it's well done. Enjoyable, but super angsty. I didn't really connect with the story, but it's well written. This started out as a lighthearted house party sex romp and then turned into something much darker. I was surprised by the shift in tone. Anyone expecting happy-go-lucky m/m/m erotica, this is not that (as much as the blurb makes it sound that way), and it was also kind of a downer. The depressing historical setting is very affecting--the Vere Street raids are a big part of the story and people die. The abusive relationship is unpleasant to read, so be aware of that. The second half, with all its hand-wringing and lovelorn sighing, did drag a little, but it made sense that Stephen needed the time to rebuild his life. It was great to see Stephen's transformation. I appreciated that this is a story of everyday, working people (artists, specifically), and emotionally, it seemed pretty realistic. In the end, Stephen and Joshua get their happy ending and it's all okay, but it's a bumpy journey getting there.
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February 15, 2022Review previously published by The Smut Report.
Heat Factor: Roaring Bonfire
Character Chemistry: Weak due to underdeveloped characters
Plot: penis. Penis. PENIS!
Overall: Fun and sexy, as long as you like penises
So, based on my above mini-summary, you’ve probably gathered that Rite of Summer is full of penises. And you would be right! It is full of penises in the most delightful, ridiculous, fun way. I mean, look at this excellent discussion of a penis, from page 1:
Rite of Summer tells the story of three queer men who come to a house party to serve as entertainment for their wealthier patrons. (NO! Not like that! They are artists / musicians. Jeez guys.) Evander and Stephen are an established couple who also perform music together, but as might be apparent from the above quote, Evander sort of sucks. Evander and Stephen also open their bed up to visitors: enter Joshua, an enigmatic and lonely painter who has lusted after Stephen since hearing him play the violin at Vauxhall.
The bulk of the book consists of the men negotiating this triad. They romp around in the bedroom, singly, in pairs, and all three together. I definitely appreciated Bowery’s prose when talking about sex. She does not shy away from describing the penises accurately. There’s none of the “Oh my, it’s so big, is that normal? How about I just sort of stroke it” stuff which frequently happens in historicals. No quivering members here! We hear about foreskin, and lube and the head and the slit and also a Prince Albert. (Which, Bowery notes in her afterward, is perhaps not entirely historically accurate, but she does give a plausible explanation for it and – who cares? It’s fun!)
In addition, there is a real sense of danger hovering over the proceedings, especially starting around the mid-point of the book, when a vice raid happens in London, based on the Vere Street Raids of July 1810. In the context of the story, people that Evander, Stephen, and Joshua know are imprisoned, tortured, and killed. They are themselves in a precarious position, as performers at a house party full of bigots, at least one of whom suspects that there are shenanigans going on. Bowery handles the tension between fear and finding sexual and emotional fulfilment well.
I also appreciate that Bowery focuses on solidly working-class protagonists. Evander, Stephen, and Joshua were all invited to attend this house party, but they are not precisely guests. They are obligated to make nice with the other guests, in addition to painting portraits / playing music, which adds an additional layer of stress to the proceedings.
The weakness of this book is that the characters are underdeveloped. Evander is by far the most interesting, and he’s the villain of the story. He’s an abusive partner, who continually manipulates others in his quest to better himself. He is petty and controlling, and eventually betrays the relationship in an unbelievably stupid and out-of-character way. On the other hand, Stephen really loves him, at least in the beginning, and the two men have a long and complicated history that also includes support and caring after the two ran away from home as teenagers and made their way up in the world as musicians. Also, Stephen complains about them catering to their patron by even attending the house party, but Evander is not acting illogically. You need a patron if you’re going to be an artist, especially in 1810. Evander contains multitudes, but even so comes across as flat, with his motivations not entirely making sense.
However, our real heroes, Stephen and Joshua, are even more undeveloped. Stephen is so stuck on Evander, because their lives are entwined professionally and sexually, that he does not come across as an individual for basically the whole book. I have no idea where Joshua’s coming from at all. Like, he’s sealed himself off from society or the possibility of love, but I’m not entirely sure why. All I know about these men is that they desire each other.
Sophie, Joshua’s friend and a lady’s maid, is by far the best character, mainly because she’s the only one with any common sense. Plus, she has an intriguing past, or at least the hint of one. Luckily, the sequel is about her, so I’ll probably have to get me some more of this series the next time I’m in the mood for some super fun erotic writing.
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Heat Factor: Roaring Bonfire
Character Chemistry: Weak due to underdeveloped characters
Plot: penis. Penis. PENIS!
Overall: Fun and sexy, as long as you like penises
So, based on my above mini-summary, you’ve probably gathered that Rite of Summer is full of penises. And you would be right! It is full of penises in the most delightful, ridiculous, fun way. I mean, look at this excellent discussion of a penis, from page 1:
Evander’s prick was the epitome of all things that were erotic and beautiful in the world.
Loving the man would be much easier if Evander didn’t think so as well.
Rite of Summer tells the story of three queer men who come to a house party to serve as entertainment for their wealthier patrons. (NO! Not like that! They are artists / musicians. Jeez guys.) Evander and Stephen are an established couple who also perform music together, but as might be apparent from the above quote, Evander sort of sucks. Evander and Stephen also open their bed up to visitors: enter Joshua, an enigmatic and lonely painter who has lusted after Stephen since hearing him play the violin at Vauxhall.
The bulk of the book consists of the men negotiating this triad. They romp around in the bedroom, singly, in pairs, and all three together. I definitely appreciated Bowery’s prose when talking about sex. She does not shy away from describing the penises accurately. There’s none of the “Oh my, it’s so big, is that normal? How about I just sort of stroke it” stuff which frequently happens in historicals. No quivering members here! We hear about foreskin, and lube and the head and the slit and also a Prince Albert. (Which, Bowery notes in her afterward, is perhaps not entirely historically accurate, but she does give a plausible explanation for it and – who cares? It’s fun!)
In addition, there is a real sense of danger hovering over the proceedings, especially starting around the mid-point of the book, when a vice raid happens in London, based on the Vere Street Raids of July 1810. In the context of the story, people that Evander, Stephen, and Joshua know are imprisoned, tortured, and killed. They are themselves in a precarious position, as performers at a house party full of bigots, at least one of whom suspects that there are shenanigans going on. Bowery handles the tension between fear and finding sexual and emotional fulfilment well.
I also appreciate that Bowery focuses on solidly working-class protagonists. Evander, Stephen, and Joshua were all invited to attend this house party, but they are not precisely guests. They are obligated to make nice with the other guests, in addition to painting portraits / playing music, which adds an additional layer of stress to the proceedings.
The weakness of this book is that the characters are underdeveloped. Evander is by far the most interesting, and he’s the villain of the story. He’s an abusive partner, who continually manipulates others in his quest to better himself. He is petty and controlling, and eventually betrays the relationship in an unbelievably stupid and out-of-character way. On the other hand, Stephen really loves him, at least in the beginning, and the two men have a long and complicated history that also includes support and caring after the two ran away from home as teenagers and made their way up in the world as musicians. Also, Stephen complains about them catering to their patron by even attending the house party, but Evander is not acting illogically. You need a patron if you’re going to be an artist, especially in 1810. Evander contains multitudes, but even so comes across as flat, with his motivations not entirely making sense.
However, our real heroes, Stephen and Joshua, are even more undeveloped. Stephen is so stuck on Evander, because their lives are entwined professionally and sexually, that he does not come across as an individual for basically the whole book. I have no idea where Joshua’s coming from at all. Like, he’s sealed himself off from society or the possibility of love, but I’m not entirely sure why. All I know about these men is that they desire each other.
Sophie, Joshua’s friend and a lady’s maid, is by far the best character, mainly because she’s the only one with any common sense. Plus, she has an intriguing past, or at least the hint of one. Luckily, the sequel is about her, so I’ll probably have to get me some more of this series the next time I’m in the mood for some super fun erotic writing.
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April 2, 2024
Honestly really enjoyable, starts with a MMM romance that develops into a solid MM. Both MCs do a lot of growing and d learning and it’s wonderful to see a different layer of society depicted.
January 3, 2016
Rite of Summer by Tess Bowery
Book #1: Treading the Boards Series
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars
My Review:
Stephen Ashbrook and Evander Cade are a package deal and have been since the moment they ran from their respective homes. Life in London has brought them a couple of things, the freedom to quietly be together and a much larger and more receptive audience for their music. Every composer needs a muse and according to Cade, Ashbrook has always been his. Their professional life is progressing nicely which is how the undercover couple have found themselves to be the summer guests of their most prominent patron, the Earl of Coventry. Six weeks in the country should be a wonderful respite from the London summer yet it turns into anything but.
Cade has promised Ashbrook their time in the country will not interrupt their affair which proves to be both completely true and completely false. Their lifestyle isn’t acceptable and while the sneaking around and the possibility of getting caught makes the sex even better, it also increases their risk of being caught and arrested. Adding to the risqué nature of their affair is the inclusion of a third man, Joshua Beaufort. Oh, Beaufort certainly takes the affair to all new heights but he is also an outsider, so to speak, which means he is able to more objectively analyze Cade and Ashbrook’s relationship. What Beaufort sees is completely unacceptable. Cade constantly berates and belittles Ashbrook and when Ashbrook does or says something to offend Cade, Cade throws a fit that generally involves many, may harsh and hateful words and the withholding of his affection. In short, Cade is despicable human with no regard for anyone other than himself.
As the summer progresses, Ashbrook becomes more and more despondent. Cade is constantly in a snit, Beaufort is trying desperately to get him to see the truth of his relationship with Cade, and meanwhile, back in London, a whole host of gay and presumably gay men have been arrested for buggery which only creates greater anxiety among the illicit trio. As the what should have been a blissful six weeks of summer at Coventry’s comes a close, Beaufort make one final play for Ashbrook’s affections only to be shot down. All three men, each a little more broken than before leave the country with every intention of picking up pieces of their lives and moving forward. For Cade, that means elevating his torturous treatment of Ashbrook, for Ashbrook that means finally having the spine to stand up for himself, and for Beaufort it means finally making the bold decision to leave the comfort of his cousin’s home to strike out on his own.
The Bottom Line: Who knew a summer in the country could be so hot and so scandalous all at once?? Rite of Summer is, at its core a love story that very much plays out behind closed doors. This is a period piece and true to the period, the gay lifestyle was totally unacceptable both morally and legally which automatically adds an element of tension to the read. Cade and Ashbrook are just a train wreck on every level and I disliked Cade from the very beginning. Cade is arrogant and awful and has no desire to please anyone other than himself; his actions are always selfish and his words rarely ever hold even an ounce of truth. Ashbrook is by far the quieter of the couple and only becomes truly interesting when he stands up to Cade. Of the trio, Ashbrook grows the most over the course of the read and it pleasurable to see him come into his own as a man and a musician. Beaufort is, by far my favorite of the men and his feelings for Ashbrook are true and pure; his actions are always meant to protect Ashbrook and himself from any further hurt. The only time the three men agree on anything is when they are in bed together and those scenes are very, very, very long, they are also steamy and good. But, good sex doesn’t make a relationship and by the end of the read, everyone gets exactly what he deserves!
Book #1: Treading the Boards Series
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars
My Review:
Stephen Ashbrook and Evander Cade are a package deal and have been since the moment they ran from their respective homes. Life in London has brought them a couple of things, the freedom to quietly be together and a much larger and more receptive audience for their music. Every composer needs a muse and according to Cade, Ashbrook has always been his. Their professional life is progressing nicely which is how the undercover couple have found themselves to be the summer guests of their most prominent patron, the Earl of Coventry. Six weeks in the country should be a wonderful respite from the London summer yet it turns into anything but.
Cade has promised Ashbrook their time in the country will not interrupt their affair which proves to be both completely true and completely false. Their lifestyle isn’t acceptable and while the sneaking around and the possibility of getting caught makes the sex even better, it also increases their risk of being caught and arrested. Adding to the risqué nature of their affair is the inclusion of a third man, Joshua Beaufort. Oh, Beaufort certainly takes the affair to all new heights but he is also an outsider, so to speak, which means he is able to more objectively analyze Cade and Ashbrook’s relationship. What Beaufort sees is completely unacceptable. Cade constantly berates and belittles Ashbrook and when Ashbrook does or says something to offend Cade, Cade throws a fit that generally involves many, may harsh and hateful words and the withholding of his affection. In short, Cade is despicable human with no regard for anyone other than himself.
As the summer progresses, Ashbrook becomes more and more despondent. Cade is constantly in a snit, Beaufort is trying desperately to get him to see the truth of his relationship with Cade, and meanwhile, back in London, a whole host of gay and presumably gay men have been arrested for buggery which only creates greater anxiety among the illicit trio. As the what should have been a blissful six weeks of summer at Coventry’s comes a close, Beaufort make one final play for Ashbrook’s affections only to be shot down. All three men, each a little more broken than before leave the country with every intention of picking up pieces of their lives and moving forward. For Cade, that means elevating his torturous treatment of Ashbrook, for Ashbrook that means finally having the spine to stand up for himself, and for Beaufort it means finally making the bold decision to leave the comfort of his cousin’s home to strike out on his own.
The Bottom Line: Who knew a summer in the country could be so hot and so scandalous all at once?? Rite of Summer is, at its core a love story that very much plays out behind closed doors. This is a period piece and true to the period, the gay lifestyle was totally unacceptable both morally and legally which automatically adds an element of tension to the read. Cade and Ashbrook are just a train wreck on every level and I disliked Cade from the very beginning. Cade is arrogant and awful and has no desire to please anyone other than himself; his actions are always selfish and his words rarely ever hold even an ounce of truth. Ashbrook is by far the quieter of the couple and only becomes truly interesting when he stands up to Cade. Of the trio, Ashbrook grows the most over the course of the read and it pleasurable to see him come into his own as a man and a musician. Beaufort is, by far my favorite of the men and his feelings for Ashbrook are true and pure; his actions are always meant to protect Ashbrook and himself from any further hurt. The only time the three men agree on anything is when they are in bed together and those scenes are very, very, very long, they are also steamy and good. But, good sex doesn’t make a relationship and by the end of the read, everyone gets exactly what he deserves!
May 20, 2015
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I Dig Good Books.
Stephen Ashbrook, talented musician and Evander Cade, composer, come as a pair. Evander manages to garner an invitation to a summer party, lasting six weeks. Stephen isn't sure this is a good idea, but what Evander wants, Evander gets. Once there, though, they meet Joshua Beaufort, painter. Joshua has been smitten with Stephen since he heard him play a year before. When the invtation to join Stephen and Evander in their bed comes along, Joshua is hard pressed to say no, for he wants Stephen. But changing from a couple to a three way poses its own problems, and only two will remain.
I really really found this book so enjoyable! So NOT what I was expecting. Don't ask me what I was expecting, because I have no idea, but I'm left the the feeling of overwhelming surprise.
Beautifully written historical romance, encompassing all the tradtions, manners, speech patterns and rules of the time.
Evander's control over Stephen is subtle, but none the less abusive and it takes Joshua to to make Stephen see that Evander does what he does for himself, not for them both.
I particularly loved the use of the characters names. For a long time, it was Ashbrook, Beaufort and Cade (Stephen, Joshua and Evander) They called each other by the surnames, even when engaged in their carnal activities. Its not til much later that Stephen and Joshua are used, the point is marked in the book, when Stephen uses Joshua for the first time. While reading, it bothered me, why use surnames all the time, but after THAT point, it was like a light bulb moment and I was like, "Of course!"
M/M/M and M/M scenes, which while beautifully written, sexy, emotional and steamy, I didn't find them as explicit as some M/M reads. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong, but I can see that some die-hard M/M readers might not like it. Me, though, I loved it.
It bills as book one in the series, and I can't find a book two yet. I also cannot find anything else by this author. I want to read more, more of this series, and certainly, more of this author. If this is a first time author, I am suitably impressed.
I originally was going to star this 4.5 but in all honesty, I cannot find a single thing to knock that half star off for so....
5 full stars
**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amamzon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
Stephen Ashbrook, talented musician and Evander Cade, composer, come as a pair. Evander manages to garner an invitation to a summer party, lasting six weeks. Stephen isn't sure this is a good idea, but what Evander wants, Evander gets. Once there, though, they meet Joshua Beaufort, painter. Joshua has been smitten with Stephen since he heard him play a year before. When the invtation to join Stephen and Evander in their bed comes along, Joshua is hard pressed to say no, for he wants Stephen. But changing from a couple to a three way poses its own problems, and only two will remain.
I really really found this book so enjoyable! So NOT what I was expecting. Don't ask me what I was expecting, because I have no idea, but I'm left the the feeling of overwhelming surprise.
Beautifully written historical romance, encompassing all the tradtions, manners, speech patterns and rules of the time.
Evander's control over Stephen is subtle, but none the less abusive and it takes Joshua to to make Stephen see that Evander does what he does for himself, not for them both.
I particularly loved the use of the characters names. For a long time, it was Ashbrook, Beaufort and Cade (Stephen, Joshua and Evander) They called each other by the surnames, even when engaged in their carnal activities. Its not til much later that Stephen and Joshua are used, the point is marked in the book, when Stephen uses Joshua for the first time. While reading, it bothered me, why use surnames all the time, but after THAT point, it was like a light bulb moment and I was like, "Of course!"
M/M/M and M/M scenes, which while beautifully written, sexy, emotional and steamy, I didn't find them as explicit as some M/M reads. I'm not complaining, don't get me wrong, but I can see that some die-hard M/M readers might not like it. Me, though, I loved it.
It bills as book one in the series, and I can't find a book two yet. I also cannot find anything else by this author. I want to read more, more of this series, and certainly, more of this author. If this is a first time author, I am suitably impressed.
I originally was going to star this 4.5 but in all honesty, I cannot find a single thing to knock that half star off for so....
5 full stars
**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amamzon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
June 2, 2015
This is a sumptuous historical romance that’s equally rich in detail and man-on-man action. Featuring three male artists (painter, musician, composer) eking out their own existences at the start of the 19th century it’s full of emotional angst and tribulations, the rush of new love, the pain of old friends, the fear of homophobic laws and the strain of patronage. In essence my thoughts on this book are pretty simple: Oh, Stephen. Oh, Joshua! Urgh, Cade.
In a way that’s both the pain and the pleasure of this book for me. I never had a chance to like Evander Cade. Right from the start he treats Stephen as less than him, a child to be chastised or a pet to be indulged. He’s beautiful, yes, but also smug and arrogant and petty. Normally I have no problems reading M/M/M triads, but I have to admit to an uncomfortable trepidation during the scenes where all three were together. Thankfully there’s only really one truly in-depth three-way scene, but at the same time it made me sad. I love reading a well balanced trio and it might have been nice if there’d been at least a glimmer of a chance for them to all be together, even for a little while.
But that would be a different book. Instead this one is strung tight with subtle (and occasionally overt) tensions, between the three men, between the rest of the house party, over the larger issues of arrests and trials and hangings. The emotional tugs-of-war going on around Stephen are both compelling and exhausting, while the undercurrents swirling around the entire houseparty are fascinating. Yet right in the middle of all of this is Joshua, a sweet artist with a gentle heart and a passion for one very confused violinist.
It’s a beautiful story of heightened emotions and difficult relationships, set amidst the troublesome 19th century, when bawdy Georgian manners were being slowly tightened towards Regency restraint. The details are lovely, the characters are compelling and the romance at the heart of it all is by turns tormented, sweet and satisfying. There is a lot of sex in it, though, or rather the sex that’s in it tends to take over everything for a while. If you like your Historicals as equally rich in steam as detail, then you should enjoy this. If you prefer a gentler exploration of manners, then you have been warned. Personally, I enjoyed it all and I look forward to more from the series.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
In a way that’s both the pain and the pleasure of this book for me. I never had a chance to like Evander Cade. Right from the start he treats Stephen as less than him, a child to be chastised or a pet to be indulged. He’s beautiful, yes, but also smug and arrogant and petty. Normally I have no problems reading M/M/M triads, but I have to admit to an uncomfortable trepidation during the scenes where all three were together. Thankfully there’s only really one truly in-depth three-way scene, but at the same time it made me sad. I love reading a well balanced trio and it might have been nice if there’d been at least a glimmer of a chance for them to all be together, even for a little while.
But that would be a different book. Instead this one is strung tight with subtle (and occasionally overt) tensions, between the three men, between the rest of the house party, over the larger issues of arrests and trials and hangings. The emotional tugs-of-war going on around Stephen are both compelling and exhausting, while the undercurrents swirling around the entire houseparty are fascinating. Yet right in the middle of all of this is Joshua, a sweet artist with a gentle heart and a passion for one very confused violinist.
It’s a beautiful story of heightened emotions and difficult relationships, set amidst the troublesome 19th century, when bawdy Georgian manners were being slowly tightened towards Regency restraint. The details are lovely, the characters are compelling and the romance at the heart of it all is by turns tormented, sweet and satisfying. There is a lot of sex in it, though, or rather the sex that’s in it tends to take over everything for a while. If you like your Historicals as equally rich in steam as detail, then you should enjoy this. If you prefer a gentler exploration of manners, then you have been warned. Personally, I enjoyed it all and I look forward to more from the series.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
May 20, 2015
4 out of 5 stars
“The Rite of Summer” by Tessa Bowery is an erotic m/m and m/m/m historical romance that is the start of the ‘Treading the Boards’ series. Stephen Ashbrook and Evander Cade are an established couple who have managed a comfortable life under the patronage of the Earl of Coventry, who is impressed by Evander’s talents as a composer but merely tolerates Stephen as an accompanist. A house-party changes the duo’s lives forever, as an encounter with painter Joshua Beaufort, who has admired Stephen from afar, changes the dynamics of their relationship and forces some unpalatable truths to come to light. The societal persecution of gay men intensifies with horrifying and discouraging impact, and Stephen’s world spirals out of control and he must find the strength and conviction to follow his heart, no matter what obstacles are in his way.
This very spicy tale gives an intriguing look at a frighteningly unbending society with distressingly fatal consequences for those who don’t comply with the purported requirements for acceptable behavior. It was fascinating to see the courtship dance from two different perspectives against the backdrop of aristocratic England and the contrast between wickedly carnal intimacies and staid bucolic pursuits in the country was deftly presented. The ending felt a bit rushed to me as the various resolutions are rapidly detailed but it was lovely to see some of the characters mature. I was drawn into the story and enjoyed the interactions with some of the secondary characters and I would be curious to find out more about a few of them, so I will be on the lookout for sequels.
A copy of this story was provided to me for review.
“The Rite of Summer” by Tessa Bowery is an erotic m/m and m/m/m historical romance that is the start of the ‘Treading the Boards’ series. Stephen Ashbrook and Evander Cade are an established couple who have managed a comfortable life under the patronage of the Earl of Coventry, who is impressed by Evander’s talents as a composer but merely tolerates Stephen as an accompanist. A house-party changes the duo’s lives forever, as an encounter with painter Joshua Beaufort, who has admired Stephen from afar, changes the dynamics of their relationship and forces some unpalatable truths to come to light. The societal persecution of gay men intensifies with horrifying and discouraging impact, and Stephen’s world spirals out of control and he must find the strength and conviction to follow his heart, no matter what obstacles are in his way.
This very spicy tale gives an intriguing look at a frighteningly unbending society with distressingly fatal consequences for those who don’t comply with the purported requirements for acceptable behavior. It was fascinating to see the courtship dance from two different perspectives against the backdrop of aristocratic England and the contrast between wickedly carnal intimacies and staid bucolic pursuits in the country was deftly presented. The ending felt a bit rushed to me as the various resolutions are rapidly detailed but it was lovely to see some of the characters mature. I was drawn into the story and enjoyed the interactions with some of the secondary characters and I would be curious to find out more about a few of them, so I will be on the lookout for sequels.
A copy of this story was provided to me for review.
June 29, 2015
Not Such a Menange
This one will catch you right away--the intense love making between the young composer Evander Cade and his "muse," the extraordinary violinist and his lover Stephen Ashbrook, will toss you for a loop and send you into an orbit of a tale that leaves virtually no stone unturned when it comes to digging into the swamp that is Regency England in 1810.
But Evander is the dominant one in the relationship and practically orders Stephen to accompany him to a six-week long vacation at the estate of one of the country's leading squires, where they will entertain the other guests occasionally but hopefully expand their young career opportunities.
Along with Stephen another reluctant guest is included in the crowd, the up-and coming painter Joshua Beaufort, who not only has seen Stephen play Evander's music in concert (and fell in lust) but is also handsome enough to have attracted a menage-a-trois invitation from Evander, who controls these things, don't-you-know.
What evolves from this relationship will capture your heart and torture your patience at times because star-crossed is what you think will come of this arrangement. And it does. Like many M/M romances set during the period, the cruel horror of raids, prosecutions and executions of gay men is a stomach-churning presence, but this book plays it out in such a way as to leave you shaking, and hoping our lads will be safe.
The problem is that one of them is duplicitous, one of them is extremely naïve, and one of them is too observant and steadfast for his own good. As a result we have a potboiler, adventure, mystery, history lesson and a superb love story. One of the best of its genre.
This one will catch you right away--the intense love making between the young composer Evander Cade and his "muse," the extraordinary violinist and his lover Stephen Ashbrook, will toss you for a loop and send you into an orbit of a tale that leaves virtually no stone unturned when it comes to digging into the swamp that is Regency England in 1810.
But Evander is the dominant one in the relationship and practically orders Stephen to accompany him to a six-week long vacation at the estate of one of the country's leading squires, where they will entertain the other guests occasionally but hopefully expand their young career opportunities.
Along with Stephen another reluctant guest is included in the crowd, the up-and coming painter Joshua Beaufort, who not only has seen Stephen play Evander's music in concert (and fell in lust) but is also handsome enough to have attracted a menage-a-trois invitation from Evander, who controls these things, don't-you-know.
What evolves from this relationship will capture your heart and torture your patience at times because star-crossed is what you think will come of this arrangement. And it does. Like many M/M romances set during the period, the cruel horror of raids, prosecutions and executions of gay men is a stomach-churning presence, but this book plays it out in such a way as to leave you shaking, and hoping our lads will be safe.
The problem is that one of them is duplicitous, one of them is extremely naïve, and one of them is too observant and steadfast for his own good. As a result we have a potboiler, adventure, mystery, history lesson and a superb love story. One of the best of its genre.
May 21, 2015
I received an ARC of the book, read it and here is what I have to say.
Tess Bowery’s “Rite of Summer” is beautifully written historical erotic M/M novel where you are taken to a completely different world, whether you are reading this at home, on the train or wherever you might be. Bowery’s ability to take you through the lives and scenes of people in this time and place is truly amazing and so accurate that you feel as if you are there with the characters, not just reading their story from a book.
The emotions of the characters are another thing that Bowery conveys perfectly. It doesn't matter what role, each character has their own personality, thoughts and feelings which is refreshing. You feel right along with each character, even the ones who don’t deserve it, every jump of excitement, fear, lust and love. During one scene, that I won’t spoil, I felt myself tear up and had to set it aside for a moment because of how well the feelings were treated and written.
This is truly a great read as well as ridiculously sexy, had to say it somewhere, and I feel others will enjoy it as much as I did.
Tess Bowery’s “Rite of Summer” is beautifully written historical erotic M/M novel where you are taken to a completely different world, whether you are reading this at home, on the train or wherever you might be. Bowery’s ability to take you through the lives and scenes of people in this time and place is truly amazing and so accurate that you feel as if you are there with the characters, not just reading their story from a book.
The emotions of the characters are another thing that Bowery conveys perfectly. It doesn't matter what role, each character has their own personality, thoughts and feelings which is refreshing. You feel right along with each character, even the ones who don’t deserve it, every jump of excitement, fear, lust and love. During one scene, that I won’t spoil, I felt myself tear up and had to set it aside for a moment because of how well the feelings were treated and written.
This is truly a great read as well as ridiculously sexy, had to say it somewhere, and I feel others will enjoy it as much as I did.
September 18, 2015
(request submitted by author for an honest critique)
Two men shagging - Three men - Masturbation: Tess didn't falter in delivering some rather heated scenes. For me, Joshua masturbating was more erotic than all the other scenes combined. However, I'm just a gal who enjoys self-loving and watching others pleasure themselves. *winks*
As stimulating as those moments were, I have one small complaint --- the overuse of the word, "PRICK". In erotica tales, it's hard (no pun intended) to create elaborate love scenes and not use words repetitively. However, I would have preferred she changed up the name a bit - use manhood, staff, dick - in some instances. She did use cock a few times but again PRICK was the prominent word of choice.
With that said.....
If you like historical erotica, you'll gobble this story up and hunger for more.
If you like gay erotica, again, I know you'll enjoy it. Seriously, how could you not with all the nakedness at your disposal.
www.superkambrook.com
Two men shagging - Three men - Masturbation: Tess didn't falter in delivering some rather heated scenes. For me, Joshua masturbating was more erotic than all the other scenes combined. However, I'm just a gal who enjoys self-loving and watching others pleasure themselves. *winks*
As stimulating as those moments were, I have one small complaint --- the overuse of the word, "PRICK". In erotica tales, it's hard (no pun intended) to create elaborate love scenes and not use words repetitively. However, I would have preferred she changed up the name a bit - use manhood, staff, dick - in some instances. She did use cock a few times but again PRICK was the prominent word of choice.
With that said.....
If you like historical erotica, you'll gobble this story up and hunger for more.
If you like gay erotica, again, I know you'll enjoy it. Seriously, how could you not with all the nakedness at your disposal.
www.superkambrook.com
June 1, 2015
This book is the first book in the Treading the Boards series and is a mm historical. Stephen Ashbrook and Evander Cade are a couple impacted by meeting a painter, Joshua Beaufort, at a summer party. The book steams up a bit when Joshua joins them in their bed over the summer..when all is said and done two of them are together, but I won't tell you which two.
The writing was wonderful, but the persecution of these men who follow their hearts was not. Society's intolerance of their lifestyle has a huge impact on Stephen, but so does Evander's controlling ways. Joshua opens Stephen's eyes to Evander's manipulation and selfishness.
The book was unexpected. I loved the first paragraph, an ode to Evander's "manhood." It set the tone for the whole book for me, but there were parts that were a bit deeper and so, so beautiful. 4 stars.
The writing was wonderful, but the persecution of these men who follow their hearts was not. Society's intolerance of their lifestyle has a huge impact on Stephen, but so does Evander's controlling ways. Joshua opens Stephen's eyes to Evander's manipulation and selfishness.
The book was unexpected. I loved the first paragraph, an ode to Evander's "manhood." It set the tone for the whole book for me, but there were parts that were a bit deeper and so, so beautiful. 4 stars.
March 8, 2016
Too long, weak editing, and repetition upon repetition drove me crazy. I would only vaguely refer to this as m/m/m as I was expecting the threesome to work out, which (spoiler) ... it didn't. It shouldn't have, and I'm glad it didn't, but still I expected it to be a working poly story not what it was. (end spoiler) The sex was overdone and more frequent than necessary. I enjoyed that it was about every day people trying to make a living at the arts and that the aristocracy was peripheral to the story. I liked Joshua quite a bit, found Stephen a bit too stupid for my tastes, and disliked Evander wholly. I think, with better editing and a very pared back story I could have loved this book. As it is, it was fine, but not anything I'd read again.
July 28, 2017
i honestly have no idea how good this was; i read the majority of it between the hours of 12 and 2 in the morning and i have minimal fictional scruples at those hours of the night
it's a mixed bag because on the one hand: GREAT way to finish books i've been stuck on for awhile! on the other hand i hate all of my life choices at work the next day so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
anyways these three dudes bang a lot and dude one eventually manages to leave his emotionally abusive relationship with dude two to pursue a happily ever after with dude three
good for him i guess?
tbh even with the post-midnight boost i think i preferred she whom i love to this
2.5 stars
it's a mixed bag because on the one hand: GREAT way to finish books i've been stuck on for awhile! on the other hand i hate all of my life choices at work the next day so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
anyways these three dudes bang a lot and dude one eventually manages to leave his emotionally abusive relationship with dude two to pursue a happily ever after with dude three
good for him i guess?
tbh even with the post-midnight boost i think i preferred she whom i love to this
2.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2016
** 4.5 Stars **
I liked it a lot, it was different!
Want to read
December 18, 2015Blaming KJ and her review for purchasing this one.
August 28, 2018
Fuck, but this book put me through the emotional wringer. Rite of Summer is a rollercoaster—it brings you up with music and sunshine and sex before pitching you right down into really heavy emotional depths.
That’s why I need to flag up a couple of CWs here:
Frankly, I was feeling the whiplash. While I was happy to see consideration of the effect of the hostile climate of the Victorian era on the queer characters, and I liked the depiction of the characters’ different attitudes to it, I felt like their feelings deserved more explicit resolution. In this vein, the end of the novel felt like a sidestep—our couple gets their happily-ever-after but without really digging into how they live with the emotional effects of what happens.
With regards to pacing, I found the novel dragged. Every scene and every moment felt about three times the length it should have been. If it hadn’t been for my need for closure I don’t know if I’d have been able to finish it.
That’s not to say this book doesn’t have its moments. I was awfully fond of Stephen Ashbrook, our musician protagonist, within paragraphs of meeting him, and he and Joshua Beaufort as a couple are frankly lovely. Also, I can’t but like any novel which opens with a description of a dick.
Though I’d struggle to recommend this to a friend, I don’t regret reading Rite of Summer. While it’s not a burning desire, I am mildly curious about the next in the series, so I would potentially pick that up at some point.
That’s why I need to flag up a couple of CWs here:
Frankly, I was feeling the whiplash. While I was happy to see consideration of the effect of the hostile climate of the Victorian era on the queer characters, and I liked the depiction of the characters’ different attitudes to it, I felt like their feelings deserved more explicit resolution. In this vein, the end of the novel felt like a sidestep—our couple gets their happily-ever-after but without really digging into how they live with the emotional effects of what happens.
With regards to pacing, I found the novel dragged. Every scene and every moment felt about three times the length it should have been. If it hadn’t been for my need for closure I don’t know if I’d have been able to finish it.
That’s not to say this book doesn’t have its moments. I was awfully fond of Stephen Ashbrook, our musician protagonist, within paragraphs of meeting him, and he and Joshua Beaufort as a couple are frankly lovely. Also, I can’t but like any novel which opens with a description of a dick.
Though I’d struggle to recommend this to a friend, I don’t regret reading Rite of Summer. While it’s not a burning desire, I am mildly curious about the next in the series, so I would potentially pick that up at some point.
November 21, 2018
This was definitely a lot better than 'She Whom I Love', in terms of basic prose style and the effectiveness of the sex scenes. It felt a bit too long/slow in many places, and needed another sub-plot to give it more spark. It's... it's a realistic and sensible narrative. I'll give it points for the slow conclusion because it didn't leap straight to HEA, and made a point of the crux character getting his shit together before pursing a proper relationship.
However, it was recommended to me as a triad book, and it definitely aint that. It has threesomes in it, sure. It's fairly /realistic/, in the sense that sometimes open relationships do end like that - the developments in the dynamic make much more sense than those in She Whom I Love. What I didn't realise was that it is essentially the story of a man ending an emotionally abusive relationship which included threesomes, and pursuing something else. Again: realistic. But I guess what I was looking for was a story about functional open relationships and change therein, rather than toxic ones replaced with eventual monogamy.
However, it was recommended to me as a triad book, and it definitely aint that. It has threesomes in it, sure. It's fairly /realistic/, in the sense that sometimes open relationships do end like that - the developments in the dynamic make much more sense than those in She Whom I Love. What I didn't realise was that it is essentially the story of a man ending an emotionally abusive relationship which included threesomes, and pursuing something else. Again: realistic. But I guess what I was looking for was a story about functional open relationships and change therein, rather than toxic ones replaced with eventual monogamy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2022
4.5 stars!
Okay so I'll freely admit that I didn't read the synopsis properly. Would I still have read it if I'd known there would be emotional abuse and manipulation? Who knows.
My point is, I'm not too fond of this trope that I'm reading for the first time ever which is we start out with an open relationship and then cut off one of the people. Granted, Cade deserved to be cut off, but I've learned that if a book is going to end with a monogamous couple then they have to decide to be monogamous as soon as they establish the relationship.
I loved the writing, and the storyline. I appreciated that Cade's character existed, even though he reminds me of every manipulative, gaslighting boyfriend that I've ever had. I think this story needed some content warnings though, because there were some real depictions of emotional manipulation and emotional abuse, and some physical assault at the end when Cade didn't get his way, and it almost sent me spiraling in a not good way.
In other news, this book is responsible for me realize that I am in fact not over my ex so we live and we learn.
Okay so I'll freely admit that I didn't read the synopsis properly. Would I still have read it if I'd known there would be emotional abuse and manipulation? Who knows.
My point is, I'm not too fond of this trope that I'm reading for the first time ever which is we start out with an open relationship and then cut off one of the people. Granted, Cade deserved to be cut off, but I've learned that if a book is going to end with a monogamous couple then they have to decide to be monogamous as soon as they establish the relationship.
I loved the writing, and the storyline. I appreciated that Cade's character existed, even though he reminds me of every manipulative, gaslighting boyfriend that I've ever had. I think this story needed some content warnings though, because there were some real depictions of emotional manipulation and emotional abuse, and some physical assault at the end when Cade didn't get his way, and it almost sent me spiraling in a not good way.
In other news, this book is responsible for me realize that I am in fact not over my ex so we live and we learn.
February 15, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up. With a stronger editorial hand this could have been truly excellent—as is, however, it’s still a good time and very promising as to Tess Bowery’s future books. It has enough sex in it that I’d say it leans firmly into erotica, especially in the middle, but the love story at the core is sweet and warm. Both main characters are working-class artists (one with slight connections to nobility, but just enough to make his employment less precarious), which was delightful.
The book deals very frankly and affectingly with the brutal state repression and homophobia of the era. I also don’t know if I’ve ever read a romance where one character spends most of it in a relationship with someone else, and I thought it was well-handled, especially the sometimes frustrating but very real push and pull of Stephen working his way free of a partnership that had devolved from vital to toxic to abusive over the years.
The book deals very frankly and affectingly with the brutal state repression and homophobia of the era. I also don’t know if I’ve ever read a romance where one character spends most of it in a relationship with someone else, and I thought it was well-handled, especially the sometimes frustrating but very real push and pull of Stephen working his way free of a partnership that had devolved from vital to toxic to abusive over the years.
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