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A Wager of Love
Laurence Aberforth has never been in love. The first time he meets the impulsive and charming Gilbert Heckwith, he accepts a wager as to whether or not true love exists in the world. Amidst the playful flirtation of their new friendship, they explore the concept of love through philosophy and poetry, and the two of them ultimately find the proof of their wager in each other. Clean romance, no cheating, no cliffhangers, standalone novella.
115 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 16, 2015
9 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Marlowe
7 books37 followersKatherine "Kitty" Marlowe is a writer of m/m historical romance novels and novellas. She has a degree in Classical history with a specialization in LGBTQ history, and can very easily be distracted into lengthy discussions on marginalized orientations and gender identities in dozens of different historical eras and subcultures.
When she isn't writing novels and novellas about handsome men smooching and living happily ever after, she is usually baking, hiking, or fighting eldritch deities in Arkham.
When she isn't writing novels and novellas about handsome men smooching and living happily ever after, she is usually baking, hiking, or fighting eldritch deities in Arkham.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 13, 2015
A Wager of Love is a British Regency historical that chronicles the story of Laurence, a staid quiet man who is dragged to balls and routs by relatives and who doesn’t relish the attention he gets from marriage-minded maidens and mamas. It is at one of these balls that he meets the unrepentant and irrepressible Gilbert. Gilbert is a breath of fresh air for the sedate Laurence and when Gilbert rescues Laurence from the matchmaking mamas a friendship is born. The two begin a philosophical debate on the existence of love and herein is where they differ on opinion.
Laurence, or Laurie, doesn’t want “…to be husbanded for the mere requirement of husbanding.” He wants to be married because he is in love. Gilbert, on the other hand, believes “There is no love to be found anywhere,” and it is here the wager is born. Laurie is to prove that love exists, Gilbert will prove the opposite.
To accomplish this, they take each other on various errands and some are truly dastardly – the children in the workhouses especially was just heartbreaking. They also discuss the philosophical aspects of love, God’s love and how love can hurt or heal. The whole tone of the book is very philosophical and discussions are frequent.
It is the yearning behind the message that lured me in. Laurie so believes in love and Gilbert? Well, just say he’s not the cynic he appears to be and that was lovely.
The scene by the North Parade bridge was so poignant I wanted to hug Gilbert, the carefree, lighthearted man. I thought the ending was perfect, if a little bit fairy tale. The discussions of philosophy may not be to everyone’s taste, at times being a little dry, but they fit the characters very well. The introduction of the Symposium made me interested enough to look it up, which is saying something. This is a well written, thoughtful look at what constitutes love. Especially recommended for historical fans.
Laurence, or Laurie, doesn’t want “…to be husbanded for the mere requirement of husbanding.” He wants to be married because he is in love. Gilbert, on the other hand, believes “There is no love to be found anywhere,” and it is here the wager is born. Laurie is to prove that love exists, Gilbert will prove the opposite.
To accomplish this, they take each other on various errands and some are truly dastardly – the children in the workhouses especially was just heartbreaking. They also discuss the philosophical aspects of love, God’s love and how love can hurt or heal. The whole tone of the book is very philosophical and discussions are frequent.
It is the yearning behind the message that lured me in. Laurie so believes in love and Gilbert? Well, just say he’s not the cynic he appears to be and that was lovely.
The scene by the North Parade bridge was so poignant I wanted to hug Gilbert, the carefree, lighthearted man. I thought the ending was perfect, if a little bit fairy tale. The discussions of philosophy may not be to everyone’s taste, at times being a little dry, but they fit the characters very well. The introduction of the Symposium made me interested enough to look it up, which is saying something. This is a well written, thoughtful look at what constitutes love. Especially recommended for historical fans.
September 23, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
What a wonderful little gem A Wager of Love turned out to be! The writing is crisp and engaging and the plot moves along almost too quickly. I definitely wished the book would have been a little longer, but the author generally does a good job of providing a realistic time frame for the action and evolution of the relationship between Laurie and Gilbert. The end felt somewhat rushed and was the only part of A Wager of Love that lacked an even pacing. Had this section been somewhat extended and had we been allowed to see a bit more of Laurie and Gilbert’s happily ever after, this would have been an almost perfect book.
The philosophical discussions between Laurie and Gilbert are the real highlight of this novel. You don’t have to love philosophy to enjoy them, but you do have to appreciate and be willing to adapt your natural reading style to incorporate them. Philosophy requires the inclination to think before anything else and sometimes it requires a patient untangling of an idea from nuance and unfamiliar concepts. Though the conversations shared by Laurie and Gilbert are generally familiar to most who sat through an entry-level philosophy course in college, there are several passages that are more than appropriate to the events going on in the US and across the world. The author does a wonderful job of reminding us that philosophy is not simply the work of dusty scholars or bored students, but rather an extension of the human condition and as a result has a place in societies, both modern and historical.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
What a wonderful little gem A Wager of Love turned out to be! The writing is crisp and engaging and the plot moves along almost too quickly. I definitely wished the book would have been a little longer, but the author generally does a good job of providing a realistic time frame for the action and evolution of the relationship between Laurie and Gilbert. The end felt somewhat rushed and was the only part of A Wager of Love that lacked an even pacing. Had this section been somewhat extended and had we been allowed to see a bit more of Laurie and Gilbert’s happily ever after, this would have been an almost perfect book.
The philosophical discussions between Laurie and Gilbert are the real highlight of this novel. You don’t have to love philosophy to enjoy them, but you do have to appreciate and be willing to adapt your natural reading style to incorporate them. Philosophy requires the inclination to think before anything else and sometimes it requires a patient untangling of an idea from nuance and unfamiliar concepts. Though the conversations shared by Laurie and Gilbert are generally familiar to most who sat through an entry-level philosophy course in college, there are several passages that are more than appropriate to the events going on in the US and across the world. The author does a wonderful job of reminding us that philosophy is not simply the work of dusty scholars or bored students, but rather an extension of the human condition and as a result has a place in societies, both modern and historical.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
September 21, 2015
I really enjoyed the philosophical aspect of this story. It's been a while since I had had the opportunity to partake in such a well-researched and presented discussion. Logic, philosophy, and classic literature are the main components in this story. If the reader has a basic knowledge of this topics it'd appreciate A Wager of Love more. 5 out of 5 for the historical/philosophical component.
On the other hand, I don't consider Gilbert's and Laurie's relationship a true romance, more of a fondness developed from true friendship. I did see Gilbert's changing from lust to something deeper, but Laurie felt in some aspects as a clueless heroine. Perhaps if we had had the chance to see beyond the last lines of the story, it'd provide us with a better appreciation of their blooming affair. 3 out of 3 for the romance.
I was a little disappointed that the story ended at the 85% of the e-book. The back is filled with poems and the preview for the next story in the series, which isn't related to this one. When I saw the story was taking a turn for the best, it was just on its final stage.
Overall, a nice historical read.
On the other hand, I don't consider Gilbert's and Laurie's relationship a true romance, more of a fondness developed from true friendship. I did see Gilbert's changing from lust to something deeper, but Laurie felt in some aspects as a clueless heroine. Perhaps if we had had the chance to see beyond the last lines of the story, it'd provide us with a better appreciation of their blooming affair. 3 out of 3 for the romance.
I was a little disappointed that the story ended at the 85% of the e-book. The back is filled with poems and the preview for the next story in the series, which isn't related to this one. When I saw the story was taking a turn for the best, it was just on its final stage.
Overall, a nice historical read.
December 26, 2015
Very Sweet but too full of Plato and love poems. The ending felt a little abrupt too, even for a short story.
September 23, 2015
I so enjoyed this book, this book features the staid, uptight Laurence who has never done anything that decorum would not approve of, and Gilbert, who be-friends him one evening when they are at a social event. They agree on a wager, a wager on love, with Laurie choosing opportunities to prove to Gilbert that love exists and Gilbert, showing him places and peoples to prove their is no such thing as love.
The book is beautifully written, the prose making way on occasion to beautiful pieces of love poetry which I really enjoyed.
A wonderful story of growing friendship and love between two men, and I really hope that they found themselves happy and content for the rest of their lives.
The book is beautifully written, the prose making way on occasion to beautiful pieces of love poetry which I really enjoyed.
A wonderful story of growing friendship and love between two men, and I really hope that they found themselves happy and content for the rest of their lives.
June 15, 2020
Unexpected Discovery, Love!
A sweet old-fashioned historical courtship between free-spirited Gentleman Gilbert & traditionalist Gentlemen Laurie. Charming storytelling, likable MCs and a more Love than Lust premise. Enjoyable!
A sweet old-fashioned historical courtship between free-spirited Gentleman Gilbert & traditionalist Gentlemen Laurie. Charming storytelling, likable MCs and a more Love than Lust premise. Enjoyable!
October 3, 2015
4.5 STARS
When readers start discussing what genres they prefer for their m/m romance the first thing I always add to the conversation is that I don’t read historicals. No idea why, because I was a huge fan of m/f Regencies but since diving into the world of m/m novels I’ve never been tempted to pick one up. But then this request for a review landed in the blog’s email and for some unknown reason I figured I’d give it a try. So… wow. I didn’t realize how much I’d missed reading about this period until Laurie and Gilbert struck up a conversation and their oh-so-polite and witty banter assuaged a craving I was unaware I had.
Laurence Aberforth has headed to London for the season. He has a vague notion of finding a wife yet objects to the idea of marrying for anything other than love. While attempting to avoid determined, marriage focused maidens Laurie meets Gilbert Heckwith and is swept into a whirlwind friendship that begins with the two young men wagering over the existence of true love. The result is several rather interesting excursions ranging from a children’s workhouse, to a church to a brothel, as each of them takes their turn arguing their view.
This story is heavy on the philosophy and poetry. Initially I was worried that it would be to the detriment of the story but I actually really enjoyed it. I appreciated the thought that went into the philosophical discussions between Laurie and Gilbert. It was evident that the author had an expert grasp of the topic yet she managed to present it in a way that was understandable and, more importantly, interesting to the reader.
As to the romance itself, I loved it. It was almost in the background for the majority of the story but the author skillfully threw us random scraps of sentences that teased at Laurie’s growing awareness of Gilbert as something more than a friend. Their romantic connection slowly became the focus as the tale progressed allowing Laurie sufficient time to sort through concepts that were new to him. There’s no sex in this story, yet I didn’t feel the lack was a negative. I honestly don’t think on page sex would have fit the tone of the story.
This book gets a big red “recommended” stamped all over that gorgeous cover. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2015/09/2...
When readers start discussing what genres they prefer for their m/m romance the first thing I always add to the conversation is that I don’t read historicals. No idea why, because I was a huge fan of m/f Regencies but since diving into the world of m/m novels I’ve never been tempted to pick one up. But then this request for a review landed in the blog’s email and for some unknown reason I figured I’d give it a try. So… wow. I didn’t realize how much I’d missed reading about this period until Laurie and Gilbert struck up a conversation and their oh-so-polite and witty banter assuaged a craving I was unaware I had.
Laurence Aberforth has headed to London for the season. He has a vague notion of finding a wife yet objects to the idea of marrying for anything other than love. While attempting to avoid determined, marriage focused maidens Laurie meets Gilbert Heckwith and is swept into a whirlwind friendship that begins with the two young men wagering over the existence of true love. The result is several rather interesting excursions ranging from a children’s workhouse, to a church to a brothel, as each of them takes their turn arguing their view.
This story is heavy on the philosophy and poetry. Initially I was worried that it would be to the detriment of the story but I actually really enjoyed it. I appreciated the thought that went into the philosophical discussions between Laurie and Gilbert. It was evident that the author had an expert grasp of the topic yet she managed to present it in a way that was understandable and, more importantly, interesting to the reader.
As to the romance itself, I loved it. It was almost in the background for the majority of the story but the author skillfully threw us random scraps of sentences that teased at Laurie’s growing awareness of Gilbert as something more than a friend. Their romantic connection slowly became the focus as the tale progressed allowing Laurie sufficient time to sort through concepts that were new to him. There’s no sex in this story, yet I didn’t feel the lack was a negative. I honestly don’t think on page sex would have fit the tone of the story.
This book gets a big red “recommended” stamped all over that gorgeous cover. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2015/09/2...
January 23, 2016
What can I say? I'm a sucker for a romance that 'creeps' up on one.
Gilbert does not believe real love exists yet yearns for it. Laurie knew true love exists yet never experienced it -in the romantic sense that is. So they each wager to prove the other wrong. I think Gilbert, the sly dog, knew what he was all about with his reading of love poems, and Greek philosophy to poor 'innocent' Laurie.
A Wager of Love is unusual in the sense it veers from the 'standard' path of telling the story. Using the discourses of Plato, Socrates and their fellow philosophers to show the kinds of love a society will adopt, adapt to, and reject is, IMHO, far more telling than heaving, sweating bodies.
I like the poems too. So much that I found them -or at least two on Stich's Den. Very lovely.
I awarded 4 stars only because I feel I didn't know much of Gilbert's back story as could have been told. His uncle, the Magistrate, a bitter old coot let a bit of the cat out the bag. I'd like to have known the rest as well what what happened after Italy.
Gilbert does not believe real love exists yet yearns for it. Laurie knew true love exists yet never experienced it -in the romantic sense that is. So they each wager to prove the other wrong. I think Gilbert, the sly dog, knew what he was all about with his reading of love poems, and Greek philosophy to poor 'innocent' Laurie.
A Wager of Love is unusual in the sense it veers from the 'standard' path of telling the story. Using the discourses of Plato, Socrates and their fellow philosophers to show the kinds of love a society will adopt, adapt to, and reject is, IMHO, far more telling than heaving, sweating bodies.
I like the poems too. So much that I found them -or at least two on Stich's Den. Very lovely.
I awarded 4 stars only because I feel I didn't know much of Gilbert's back story as could have been told. His uncle, the Magistrate, a bitter old coot let a bit of the cat out the bag. I'd like to have known the rest as well what what happened after Italy.
December 9, 2015
Completely Different & Beautiful
This one is a surprise and it's a wonderful one. Laurie and Gilbert are quite unique characters--Laurie is a total country gentleman virgin in every sense, Gilbert is widely experienced in MM sex but it's never mentioned or implied until it's necessary. By then you will be enchanted by how these two play around trying to define love, from totally opposite perspectives.
Some may lose patience with the way the tale unfolds--it's more of a journey for both rather than a plot. And the liberal use of poetry may jog some memories, or cause some to sneer. But in the end there is a true feeling that without the poetry, and without the patience and love Laurie and Gilbert have set before each other, this would not work. That it does is another tribute to an author who is very serious, indeed.
This one is a surprise and it's a wonderful one. Laurie and Gilbert are quite unique characters--Laurie is a total country gentleman virgin in every sense, Gilbert is widely experienced in MM sex but it's never mentioned or implied until it's necessary. By then you will be enchanted by how these two play around trying to define love, from totally opposite perspectives.
Some may lose patience with the way the tale unfolds--it's more of a journey for both rather than a plot. And the liberal use of poetry may jog some memories, or cause some to sneer. But in the end there is a true feeling that without the poetry, and without the patience and love Laurie and Gilbert have set before each other, this would not work. That it does is another tribute to an author who is very serious, indeed.
January 3, 2016
It was obvious by the first of Gilbert's “examples” that this story would be a little darker (and maybe more realistic) than the others by this author, but I didn't expect it to hit me quite so hard. I am still so emotional over this story! Gilbert is so jaded (and rightfully so) and Laurie is so sweet and naive. They're a good match and I would love to read more about their adventures and the poetry they recite to each other (the poetry parts hit me right in the feels).
July 18, 2016
There just aren't enough m/m historical romances out there. I'm glad I chanced upon this novella which was well written and engaging. The ending was a bit short and I wanted more about how their HEA was going to work out. Also while a full sex scene wouldn't have fit the story, I did want more than just a kiss. Still I will read more by this author.
November 3, 2015
Lovely and refreshing. Loved it.
November 13, 2020
This seemed a rather academic romance, as most of the book is spent with the two characters discussing the philosophy of love in detail, obviously influenced by Plato's The Symposium which the two main characters are reading. I enjoyed how the plot allowed a kind of exploration of several aspects of Regency England's ideas on sex - the characters visit a brothel, an orphanage/workhouse, a molly house, a play, church, a party, the countryside, etc. in efforts to prove to one another whether or not love actually exists and how to define it. There's also a lot of actual poetry which I enjoyed.
Of course, over all this, they end up falling in love with each other. It's a very slow burn romance between two engaging characters with a HEA.
Of course, over all this, they end up falling in love with each other. It's a very slow burn romance between two engaging characters with a HEA.
July 25, 2017
love, love love this book! Just... I think the MCs needed much more time to develop their relationship and the book was not long enough for it. I was kind of disappointed that there was no passionate, explosive first kiss or love scene, because it had been building up throughout the story so strongly.
The only other thing that somewhat vexed me and stole a half a star was the philosophical and religious POVs--I have no problem with any of them--taking up so much space, because in the end, they are absolutely in the eye of the beholder, an almost infinite argument. It reminded me of Plato's Republic, which I appreciated but did not precisely enjoy.
Still, well-written, funny, very likable MCs and something different you are likely to remember having read.
The only other thing that somewhat vexed me and stole a half a star was the philosophical and religious POVs--I have no problem with any of them--taking up so much space, because in the end, they are absolutely in the eye of the beholder, an almost infinite argument. It reminded me of Plato's Republic, which I appreciated but did not precisely enjoy.
Still, well-written, funny, very likable MCs and something different you are likely to remember having read.
December 27, 2023
I usually enjoy historical romance but I have to admit to a certain amount of frustration and struggle with this tale. The banter and discussions between Laurie and Gilbert on the existence of true love was at times interesting and then rather boring I'm ashamed to admit. Eventually their friendship grew and talk expanded onto a more interesting level, their friendly affection was quite endearing. Laurie's example to prove that love existed was an enjoyable play about love, Gilberts example to the opposite was something a little bit more horrific. Around the halfway mark it became much more enjoyable for me, aside from the sad and painful actions near the end. All in all a wonderful but intense read.
June 28, 2019
This cover is not indicative of the book, for starters. It is a well-crafted tale of a philosophical bet between new acquaintances who become fast friends (and more). I love weaving philosophy into fiction and reading conversations about the state of things, but I know it's not everyone's cup of tea. My only slight criticism is that it's a tad too neat, but I wouldn't let that stop me from recommending it.
January 5, 2023
Swooningly Romantic
My cynical, misanthropic heart is too curdled to *love* this story, but it delighted me. I loved both of them as characters, and their relationship is beautiful. How nice to have a story without emotional withholding, it is rare.
It made me think of the relationships in stories like Brideshead Revisited, though of course this one ends as Brideshead should have but did not.
My cynical, misanthropic heart is too curdled to *love* this story, but it delighted me. I loved both of them as characters, and their relationship is beautiful. How nice to have a story without emotional withholding, it is rare.
It made me think of the relationships in stories like Brideshead Revisited, though of course this one ends as Brideshead should have but did not.
February 23, 2021
I've been on a roll with reading Regency-era romance books and I thoroughly enjoyed this little gem. 4-besotted stars!
Read
June 21, 2021Don’t be fooled by the cover, this is a lovely lil, chaste romance with no secks for us prudes. Thank u 😍
March 7, 2022
Balm for the soul. As a fellow historian I very much enjoyed the discussions on philosophy and the love poems as well. Sweet and lovely, much like a Somersetshire summer evening.
March 5, 2016
Love does exist. Although throughout the book there is much debate on this topic. Gilbert Heckwith has the fortunate position to be educated, wealthy and bold but he just cannot be sure if love is real. Until Laurence Aberforth appears.
The back and forth is a little heady. Most of it is expressed through the dialogue The author brings in classical philosophy to make points about it existing or not with a series of challenges and demonstrations of love, and not just romantic love but humanitarian love, familial love, all kinds of love. Meanwhile the sexual tension rests between the two gentleman all in the era where it is taboo to be gay. They explore their own feelings too. Unsure of how to take different touches, casual or otherwise.
It's an ambitious romance, to be sure. Totally worth the buck.
The back and forth is a little heady. Most of it is expressed through the dialogue The author brings in classical philosophy to make points about it existing or not with a series of challenges and demonstrations of love, and not just romantic love but humanitarian love, familial love, all kinds of love. Meanwhile the sexual tension rests between the two gentleman all in the era where it is taboo to be gay. They explore their own feelings too. Unsure of how to take different touches, casual or otherwise.
It's an ambitious romance, to be sure. Totally worth the buck.
January 13, 2016
Finally finished - and I'm glad that I'm done with it. This was one of those historicals I really don't like.
January 25, 2017
A perfectly fine book that I got through quickly, but what is the deal with a romance that just has kissing. If you are looking for a steamy romance you must go elsewhere.
July 13, 2022
Reread in 2022 and reduced rating from 5 to 4 stars. Still an interesting read, but it dragged quite a bit.
April 23, 2017
If you're looking for steamy times between the MCs, you may want to pass. What we have here is a slowly burgeoning love affair. Laurie has made a gentleman's wager with Gilbert, you see. Laurie is adamant that love is real, but Gilbert is just as determined in his belief that love does not exist. Through their philosophical arguments each half convinces the other that they are right.
This is a lovely read. The author utilizes the great poets to further the philosophical debates that occur betwixt Laurie and Gilbert. Gilbert reads these love poems to Laurie.
This is a lovely read. The author utilizes the great poets to further the philosophical debates that occur betwixt Laurie and Gilbert. Gilbert reads these love poems to Laurie.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews