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The Eccentrics #1
The Viscount and the Artist
Andrew Cardwell is a man driven by duty to his country and to his family. After the death of his uncle, he's determined to provide security and stability for his family as the new Viscount Cardwell—even if that means marrying and producing an heir. Surprising himself, Andrew decides to sponsor a young artist named Jeremy for the season, to help him find a patron. What he doesn’t anticipate is how well Jeremy fits in his bed…and his life.
Jeremy Leighton knows what it’s like to be a disappointment. The only son of a vicar, he's refused to follow the path his father set for him, choosing his passion for art, instead. He accepts Andrew's proposal, hoping to prove to his father—and himself—that he can succeed as an artist. After spending time with Andrew in and out of bed, Jeremy struggles not to fall for the damaged viscount, knowing the season will likely end in Andrew's engagement.
Between a meddling cousin, a widow on the hunt for a new husband, and their own doubts about the relationship, how can Andrew and Jeremy shed the expectations of others to find true happiness?
Jeremy Leighton knows what it’s like to be a disappointment. The only son of a vicar, he's refused to follow the path his father set for him, choosing his passion for art, instead. He accepts Andrew's proposal, hoping to prove to his father—and himself—that he can succeed as an artist. After spending time with Andrew in and out of bed, Jeremy struggles not to fall for the damaged viscount, knowing the season will likely end in Andrew's engagement.
Between a meddling cousin, a widow on the hunt for a new husband, and their own doubts about the relationship, how can Andrew and Jeremy shed the expectations of others to find true happiness?
286 pages, Paperback
First published August 26, 2016
16 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Alyson Pearce
1 book9 followersAlyson Pearce is an American transplant currently living in London, where she works full time in publishing and as an author of M/M romances. She fell in love with romances after discovering her grandmother’s library and hasn’t looked back. As a member of the LGBT community, she believes that everyone deserves their chance at a happily ever after. In her spare time, Alyson enjoys cooking, reading, and shouting at contestants on Chopped. The Viscount and the Artist is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 5, 2016
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
4.5 stars... :-)
The story started out good, but then there was a very jerky phase. I was finding it hard to understand properly. I had to go back and forth and try to grasp what was happening, because it felt very abrupt.
But then the writing smoothed out again. It started to feel like how a good read should. Everything was described beautifully, and I fell in love with both Andrew and Jeremy. I felt their emotions so deeply. Though I felt bad about how Jeremy was being treated, I couldn't ignore what all Andrew had gone through. I'm so glad I persevered and continued reading. The story slowly and steadily progressed, making me alternately want the book to finish quickly, just so I could get to the HEA, and keep on savouring it for the amazing feast it was.
"So now we come to the ending. The happy ending was definitely there, even though there isn't much the author could have done, because it was SO not the era when they could have gotten acceptance for marriage any day. But I felt a bit disappointed. I don't know what I wanted, but it wasn't what actually happened. The HEA is very close to how things happen in real life, so maybe all the current MMs are to blame for my expectations of dramatic endings. :-P"
I'll rectify my original statement to say that upon having a few hours to let it set, I don't mind the ending at all. It's very quiet and peaceful, not too full of fanfare. I hope my previous comments didn't hurt the author. Really sorry for that.
There were a handful of typos, and some sentences could definitely be worded better. But I was happily ignoring them because of the great storyline and pacing. I was apprehensive initially when I looked at the number of pages, but I didn't feel them being read. I was shocked when I reached the ending, actually. I didn't feel the time passing, at all. But let's hope the editor can do their magic and make the book perfect.
Ohhhhh, I so want stories about the gang! Percy, Thad, Oliver! *sighs a dreamy sigh* Hurry up, boys. Find your loves.
A great read, overall. :-)
4.5 stars... :-)
The story started out good, but then there was a very jerky phase. I was finding it hard to understand properly. I had to go back and forth and try to grasp what was happening, because it felt very abrupt.
But then the writing smoothed out again. It started to feel like how a good read should. Everything was described beautifully, and I fell in love with both Andrew and Jeremy. I felt their emotions so deeply. Though I felt bad about how Jeremy was being treated, I couldn't ignore what all Andrew had gone through. I'm so glad I persevered and continued reading. The story slowly and steadily progressed, making me alternately want the book to finish quickly, just so I could get to the HEA, and keep on savouring it for the amazing feast it was.
"So now we come to the ending. The happy ending was definitely there, even though there isn't much the author could have done, because it was SO not the era when they could have gotten acceptance for marriage any day. But I felt a bit disappointed. I don't know what I wanted, but it wasn't what actually happened. The HEA is very close to how things happen in real life, so maybe all the current MMs are to blame for my expectations of dramatic endings. :-P"
I'll rectify my original statement to say that upon having a few hours to let it set, I don't mind the ending at all. It's very quiet and peaceful, not too full of fanfare. I hope my previous comments didn't hurt the author. Really sorry for that.
There were a handful of typos, and some sentences could definitely be worded better. But I was happily ignoring them because of the great storyline and pacing. I was apprehensive initially when I looked at the number of pages, but I didn't feel them being read. I was shocked when I reached the ending, actually. I didn't feel the time passing, at all. But let's hope the editor can do their magic and make the book perfect.
Ohhhhh, I so want stories about the gang! Percy, Thad, Oliver! *sighs a dreamy sigh* Hurry up, boys. Find your loves.
A great read, overall. :-)
January 9, 2017
I hate to do this to a new author but this was largely a miss for me. However, I tend to be a bit of stickler when it comes to historicals especially Regency historicals.
What I like best about this period, oddly enough, is the repression. Layer upon layer of clothing kept people as tightly bound as society's mandates on public behaviors which is the playground for spectacular tension building. That tension is compounded when you have two men as the protagonists because they quite literally could be hanged for sodomy. All those secret stolen moments, longing looks in the barouche and furtive touching in the gardens are what draws me to this period over and over again.
Pearce boldly subverted this conventional theme by having her protagonists take risks, skip the courting and have sex almost immediately. They fall in instalove which is, admittedly, a fresh take on the era but I found myself longing for the traditional.
Jeremy is the vicar's son who's a ginger and Andrew has recently become Lord Cardwell. The class difference theme is another that I enjoy but, again, not much was done with it. It was more in name only rather than showing ideological differences which could've enriched these characters as well as the story.
The middling parts of the story were on the dull side but I didn't hate them. There seemed to be an effort made to recapture some tension with Andrew's inability to emote due to his past which was believable from a PTSD standpoint, though it didn't endear him to me. Also, the pacing was sluggish throughout this part with little attention paid to character development and more focus on dramatics and sex.
Another thing I like about this era is the language, more specifically the double talk; people rarely spoke their mind and there was an extensive amount of manuvering particularly where the ton was involved. There was none of that here. The language often isn't consistent with the time period, at times it comes across stilted, forced and American. There was absolutely no finesse to these character's actions. No one is creative or possesses a cunning or progressive thought.
The conflict with Stanhope was the straw that broke my camel's back. I don't mind OTT antics and even slightly caricaturish bad guys but I wanted Jeremy to outwit him, beat him at his own game. He didn't but he and Andrew did get an HEA of sorts within the constraints of the time period. The thing is, though, I never invested in their coupletry.
I liked Jeremy slightly more than Andrew but neither sparkle. Attempts were made to convince me that he's a positive influence on Andrew and challenges him in ways too intimidating for others to attempt, but I was never convinced of this.
I know I just essentially tore this book apart but I do see promise in the writing and bear in mind this is one person's opinion and that person can be nitpicky when it comes to this genre. Pearce did do a good job of building their relationship, the sex is sexy enough and I did like the secondary characters which could lead me to try another book in this series.
I would recommend this to those who like historicals with a more contemporary feel.
A review copy was provided.
What I like best about this period, oddly enough, is the repression. Layer upon layer of clothing kept people as tightly bound as society's mandates on public behaviors which is the playground for spectacular tension building. That tension is compounded when you have two men as the protagonists because they quite literally could be hanged for sodomy. All those secret stolen moments, longing looks in the barouche and furtive touching in the gardens are what draws me to this period over and over again.
Pearce boldly subverted this conventional theme by having her protagonists take risks, skip the courting and have sex almost immediately. They fall in instalove which is, admittedly, a fresh take on the era but I found myself longing for the traditional.
Jeremy is the vicar's son who's a ginger and Andrew has recently become Lord Cardwell. The class difference theme is another that I enjoy but, again, not much was done with it. It was more in name only rather than showing ideological differences which could've enriched these characters as well as the story.
The middling parts of the story were on the dull side but I didn't hate them. There seemed to be an effort made to recapture some tension with Andrew's inability to emote due to his past which was believable from a PTSD standpoint, though it didn't endear him to me. Also, the pacing was sluggish throughout this part with little attention paid to character development and more focus on dramatics and sex.
Another thing I like about this era is the language, more specifically the double talk; people rarely spoke their mind and there was an extensive amount of manuvering particularly where the ton was involved. There was none of that here. The language often isn't consistent with the time period, at times it comes across stilted, forced and American. There was absolutely no finesse to these character's actions. No one is creative or possesses a cunning or progressive thought.
The conflict with Stanhope was the straw that broke my camel's back. I don't mind OTT antics and even slightly caricaturish bad guys but I wanted Jeremy to outwit him, beat him at his own game. He didn't but he and Andrew did get an HEA of sorts within the constraints of the time period. The thing is, though, I never invested in their coupletry.
I liked Jeremy slightly more than Andrew but neither sparkle. Attempts were made to convince me that he's a positive influence on Andrew and challenges him in ways too intimidating for others to attempt, but I was never convinced of this.
I know I just essentially tore this book apart but I do see promise in the writing and bear in mind this is one person's opinion and that person can be nitpicky when it comes to this genre. Pearce did do a good job of building their relationship, the sex is sexy enough and I did like the secondary characters which could lead me to try another book in this series.
I would recommend this to those who like historicals with a more contemporary feel.
A review copy was provided.
October 14, 2016
review to come!
---
*grabby hands*
love me some historical m/m
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*grabby hands*
love me some historical m/m
November 11, 2016
I can understand why people like this book. If you like Bonnie Dee's books, you'll likely enjoy this one. It's worse than Bonnie Dee but not shockingly worse.
Well... it is not a historical. It's something something with lords, viscounts, butlers, etc. Everything else is modern. Characters talk like modern people. Their attitudes are modern. Their perceptions are modern. Their mentality is modern. There is obviously zero research behind it and zero effort to make it look authentic.
Which wouldn't be so bad if the characters were likable and their relationship enticing. But it was not that either, especially Jeremy who is entitled, self-centered and whiny. Andrew is... Andrew is there to fall in love with him, I guess.
They are two pretty dolls having sex in a pretty pseudo-historical setting, with some predictable drama thrown in.
I don't want to waste my time reading it; I'd rather waste my time reading something that's at least entertaining. So, DNF.
Well... it is not a historical. It's something something with lords, viscounts, butlers, etc. Everything else is modern. Characters talk like modern people. Their attitudes are modern. Their perceptions are modern. Their mentality is modern. There is obviously zero research behind it and zero effort to make it look authentic.
Which wouldn't be so bad if the characters were likable and their relationship enticing. But it was not that either, especially Jeremy who is entitled, self-centered and whiny. Andrew is... Andrew is there to fall in love with him, I guess.
They are two pretty dolls having sex in a pretty pseudo-historical setting, with some predictable drama thrown in.
I don't want to waste my time reading it; I'd rather waste my time reading something that's at least entertaining. So, DNF.
August 24, 2016
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book. The blurb was very intriguing, so I gave it a shot. This was a wonderfully written story, with what I have to say felt very real historical accuracy. I've not done any research about how gay people were treated in the 1800s (or other centuries), but this book gave me what I felt to be a history lesson. Is it true, what was written - that if a man was found to be a "sodomite" that they could be put to death? - I don't know but it sounds plausible. I mean, just think what happens to someone TODAY who is found out to be gay, I can't imagine people back then would have been any more forgiving or understanding.
I felt very bad for the men in this book because they did indeed have to hide who they were, but they didn't feel any bitterness. It never occurred to them there was any other way to live, they simply took it as fact - they must hide who they are - forever.
I won't do much summarizing of the book since the blurb does that well enough, and to reveal more would spoil this for you. I will say that Andrew Cardwell is a man damaged from war, both mentally and physically. He recovered from severe wounds he received while battling Napoleon, and he has been afraid to show Jeremy his scars, fearing he will recoil in horror and disgust as previous lovers have. But Jeremy is in love with Andrew and his feelings towards Andrew would never allow him to turn away. When Jeremy does finally see Andrews scars, the way this unfolded I did feel was a bit trite and kind of overdone, but at the same time, my heart broke for them. I didn't expect to care for them two as much as I did.
I highly recommend this book. I have not read many historical MM before, mostly because I feared they would be poorly done with not a lot of research. With this book, none of my fears were realized as it did feel well researched. The writing was just unexpectedly great. I'm repeating myself so I will leave you with this: if you read this story, you will not be disappointed. I look forward to future installments of this series so I can read about Andrew and Jeremy's friends that I met in this book.
4 well deserved stars.
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book. The blurb was very intriguing, so I gave it a shot. This was a wonderfully written story, with what I have to say felt very real historical accuracy. I've not done any research about how gay people were treated in the 1800s (or other centuries), but this book gave me what I felt to be a history lesson. Is it true, what was written - that if a man was found to be a "sodomite" that they could be put to death? - I don't know but it sounds plausible. I mean, just think what happens to someone TODAY who is found out to be gay, I can't imagine people back then would have been any more forgiving or understanding.
I felt very bad for the men in this book because they did indeed have to hide who they were, but they didn't feel any bitterness. It never occurred to them there was any other way to live, they simply took it as fact - they must hide who they are - forever.
I won't do much summarizing of the book since the blurb does that well enough, and to reveal more would spoil this for you. I will say that Andrew Cardwell is a man damaged from war, both mentally and physically. He recovered from severe wounds he received while battling Napoleon, and he has been afraid to show Jeremy his scars, fearing he will recoil in horror and disgust as previous lovers have. But Jeremy is in love with Andrew and his feelings towards Andrew would never allow him to turn away. When Jeremy does finally see Andrews scars, the way this unfolded I did feel was a bit trite and kind of overdone, but at the same time, my heart broke for them. I didn't expect to care for them two as much as I did.
I highly recommend this book. I have not read many historical MM before, mostly because I feared they would be poorly done with not a lot of research. With this book, none of my fears were realized as it did feel well researched. The writing was just unexpectedly great. I'm repeating myself so I will leave you with this: if you read this story, you will not be disappointed. I look forward to future installments of this series so I can read about Andrew and Jeremy's friends that I met in this book.
4 well deserved stars.
May 1, 2021
Grief, Guilt, and Finally Love!
War-weary Viscount Andrew Cardwell becomes a sponsor for young Artist Jeremy Leighton and a romantic relationship develops. This historical interesting and dramatic tale is well-written with an intriguing premise that includes dynamic MCs and co-characters. The story is more than just sexy times, there are PTSD symptoms, a blackmail plot, and a physical altercation. Overall, excellent storytelling.
War-weary Viscount Andrew Cardwell becomes a sponsor for young Artist Jeremy Leighton and a romantic relationship develops. This historical interesting and dramatic tale is well-written with an intriguing premise that includes dynamic MCs and co-characters. The story is more than just sexy times, there are PTSD symptoms, a blackmail plot, and a physical altercation. Overall, excellent storytelling.
September 1, 2016
3.5 stars.
I liked this book and look forward to others in the series.
I liked this book and look forward to others in the series.
will-return-to-later
October 18, 2016Not into this one. On hold until further notice.
June 14, 2023
The whole idea of "boy, let me take you to London and tutor you in the carnal arts" is pretty skeevy, but that was actually the least of my problems with this book. I can only assume that it's a historical because the author fancied breeches and horses, because there is no demonstration of affinity with the period, place, society or cadence of spoken English. All the characters sounded like modern Americans, except in the places where they used lines very similar to those I have read in books by British authors.
The blurb sounded so promising and I felt a bit let down by the reality.
Edited to add: I found this on my kindle and had forgotten I had read it. But I stand by everything I said in my initial review.
The blurb sounded so promising and I felt a bit let down by the reality.
Edited to add: I found this on my kindle and had forgotten I had read it. But I stand by everything I said in my initial review.
Read
October 12, 2016*DNF*
(32%)
The main problem for me is the "too contemporary" writing and because of that I simply didn't feel a sense of time and place. The other thing is that I didn't feel any chemistry or sexual tension between the two protagonists. I'm not saying that it's badly written only that it didn't work for me!
Read
August 30, 2016Paused at 25%. This isn't a reflection on the writing or story, I'm just looking for a much slower burn than this.
October 9, 2016
Andrew Cardwell is a damaged man, both physically and emotionally. He lost his brother to accident, his lover to war. A war that left him half-dead and deeply scarred in body and soul.
When his uncle dies, Andrew is the new Viscount Cardwell and his cousin Phoebe wastes no time in demanding that he do his duty to marry and beget an heir in sort order, so that she and the rest of the family aren't left at the whims of a distant cousin, the nearest male relative.
If it hadn't been for his uncle's death Andrew would not even have considered marriage at all, for he is a man who desires men, not women.
Jeremy Leighton is the son of the vicar and the family have long been friends of the Cardwells. Jeremy and Andrew had been friends when they were younger, getting into scrapes together. But as they grew older, Jeremey's hero-worship of Adrew grew into something more but he tried to deny his nature.
His father had agreed to let Jeremy study Art at university, but now that Jeremy's education is over, his father wants him to join the clergy too and do something useful, rather than wander about with his head in the clouds, for the vicar can so no career in Jeremy's scribbles.
Meeting again after his uncle's funeral, Andrew senses immediately a kindred spirit in Jeremy. Jeremy is reluctant at first to reveal his desire for other men, his desire for Andrew, but Andrew breaks down his defences and Jeremy admits that he too, like Andrew, prefers men rather than women.
Andrew takes Jeremy under his wing, commissioning him for a portrait and taking him to London for the Season, where he will teach Jeremy all he needs to know about approaching other men who feel as they do. But Jeremy doesn't want to approach anyone else. He loves Andrew, but Andrew seems to see him as nothing more than a project to keep him busy during the Season before he settles down and marries.
Andrew likes Jeremy in his bed, and Jeremy will have to work hard to get into Andrew's heart as well as his bed.
An interesting start to what will be a series, I think. They seemed to fall into bed a bit too fast for me, but I can see how Andrew uses seduction to forget his worries and since Jeremy was already half-way in love with him by then, I could see him unable to resist Andrew's charms.
The pacing is normally quite good, but it sagged a little in the middle, when Andrew and Jeremy confide to their friends about their relationship problems, rather than speaking to each other about it, which would have cleared everything up immediately.
The writing is good and flows well but there were a couple of niggles for me at least, a few times the author uses the word 'reigns', as in rule over a country, when it should have been 'reins', those things you hold horses with. It made me smile anyway and didn't stop me from reading on to see how things with Jeremy and Andrew progress.
It is difficult when writing in this era to get the balance between a happy ending and being true to the history of the time, when being with a man was illegal and could get you hanged for your trouble. I think how the author handled it worked really well here.
I loved both Jeremy and Andrew, both different men with their own quirks and foibles and as the story is told in alternate points of view, we get to see inside both their heads. The supporting cast is well-drawn too and I suspect we might be seeing more of Percy, Oliver and Thaddeus in future books. They too deserve their happy endings.
A great, escapist read.
Review copy as part of blog tour.
When his uncle dies, Andrew is the new Viscount Cardwell and his cousin Phoebe wastes no time in demanding that he do his duty to marry and beget an heir in sort order, so that she and the rest of the family aren't left at the whims of a distant cousin, the nearest male relative.
If it hadn't been for his uncle's death Andrew would not even have considered marriage at all, for he is a man who desires men, not women.
Jeremy Leighton is the son of the vicar and the family have long been friends of the Cardwells. Jeremy and Andrew had been friends when they were younger, getting into scrapes together. But as they grew older, Jeremey's hero-worship of Adrew grew into something more but he tried to deny his nature.
His father had agreed to let Jeremy study Art at university, but now that Jeremy's education is over, his father wants him to join the clergy too and do something useful, rather than wander about with his head in the clouds, for the vicar can so no career in Jeremy's scribbles.
Meeting again after his uncle's funeral, Andrew senses immediately a kindred spirit in Jeremy. Jeremy is reluctant at first to reveal his desire for other men, his desire for Andrew, but Andrew breaks down his defences and Jeremy admits that he too, like Andrew, prefers men rather than women.
Andrew takes Jeremy under his wing, commissioning him for a portrait and taking him to London for the Season, where he will teach Jeremy all he needs to know about approaching other men who feel as they do. But Jeremy doesn't want to approach anyone else. He loves Andrew, but Andrew seems to see him as nothing more than a project to keep him busy during the Season before he settles down and marries.
Andrew likes Jeremy in his bed, and Jeremy will have to work hard to get into Andrew's heart as well as his bed.
An interesting start to what will be a series, I think. They seemed to fall into bed a bit too fast for me, but I can see how Andrew uses seduction to forget his worries and since Jeremy was already half-way in love with him by then, I could see him unable to resist Andrew's charms.
The pacing is normally quite good, but it sagged a little in the middle, when Andrew and Jeremy confide to their friends about their relationship problems, rather than speaking to each other about it, which would have cleared everything up immediately.
The writing is good and flows well but there were a couple of niggles for me at least, a few times the author uses the word 'reigns', as in rule over a country, when it should have been 'reins', those things you hold horses with. It made me smile anyway and didn't stop me from reading on to see how things with Jeremy and Andrew progress.
It is difficult when writing in this era to get the balance between a happy ending and being true to the history of the time, when being with a man was illegal and could get you hanged for your trouble. I think how the author handled it worked really well here.
I loved both Jeremy and Andrew, both different men with their own quirks and foibles and as the story is told in alternate points of view, we get to see inside both their heads. The supporting cast is well-drawn too and I suspect we might be seeing more of Percy, Oliver and Thaddeus in future books. They too deserve their happy endings.
A great, escapist read.
Review copy as part of blog tour.
October 25, 2016
Book: The Viscount and The Artist by Alyson Pearce
Rating: 4.50 stars
I'm shocked that this was a debut book for this author. Her writing and world building in this historical story is wonderful and realistic. As a lover of historicals, I hope she keeps going on writing them because she did a fantastic job. The romance between a peer and an artist was beautiful and full of obstacles but one that I fell in love with.
I loved Jeremy’s sweetness and innocence to start but his confidence and strong will that eventually came out after the move to London really helped me connect to him since this gave him layers and purpose especially when it came to Andrew. He's an artist that's finding a world he didn't know existed before Andrew. A world of gay men who support and befriend others like them. What started out as a teacher/student sexual relationship grew to much more even though Jeremy knows he will just get his heart broken by Andrew.
Andrew, the new Lord Cardwell due to his uncle's death, is finding out being in charge comes with more headaches than he thought. One being the need to marry and produce an heir to protect the title and his family. Running into Jeremy after all these years was not something he expected but finding out they both share the same desires turns into a wonderful thing. But his attraction is becoming more and he cannot have more. Not after the losses he's had. He just doesn't have it in him. Andrew is so stoic and Jeremy seems, at times, to bring out a different side to him which for me is where I saw the change in their feelings for each other. You only act like your true self with those you trust.
The characters in this story were easy to love and easy to want to fight for. They are what drove this story for me; giving me that feeling of never wanting to put down the book and getting lost in the story was easy. The story, in some parts, may be what I've read before but the author brought her own twist and touch to it and made it her own. I love Andrew’s friends! Each one were unique but as a group their personalities all fit with each other. So much so that I hope that maybe the author will gift us with more books for them.
All this with a first time published author makes this story even better! Can't wait to read more from her.
Rating: 4.50 stars
I'm shocked that this was a debut book for this author. Her writing and world building in this historical story is wonderful and realistic. As a lover of historicals, I hope she keeps going on writing them because she did a fantastic job. The romance between a peer and an artist was beautiful and full of obstacles but one that I fell in love with.
I loved Jeremy’s sweetness and innocence to start but his confidence and strong will that eventually came out after the move to London really helped me connect to him since this gave him layers and purpose especially when it came to Andrew. He's an artist that's finding a world he didn't know existed before Andrew. A world of gay men who support and befriend others like them. What started out as a teacher/student sexual relationship grew to much more even though Jeremy knows he will just get his heart broken by Andrew.
Andrew, the new Lord Cardwell due to his uncle's death, is finding out being in charge comes with more headaches than he thought. One being the need to marry and produce an heir to protect the title and his family. Running into Jeremy after all these years was not something he expected but finding out they both share the same desires turns into a wonderful thing. But his attraction is becoming more and he cannot have more. Not after the losses he's had. He just doesn't have it in him. Andrew is so stoic and Jeremy seems, at times, to bring out a different side to him which for me is where I saw the change in their feelings for each other. You only act like your true self with those you trust.
The characters in this story were easy to love and easy to want to fight for. They are what drove this story for me; giving me that feeling of never wanting to put down the book and getting lost in the story was easy. The story, in some parts, may be what I've read before but the author brought her own twist and touch to it and made it her own. I love Andrew’s friends! Each one were unique but as a group their personalities all fit with each other. So much so that I hope that maybe the author will gift us with more books for them.
All this with a first time published author makes this story even better! Can't wait to read more from her.
October 21, 2016
I LOVED this. The Viscount and the Artist is an intelligently written historical M/M romance that had me totally falling for Jeremy over and over again throughout the story.
Andrew is severely conflicted, suffering from PTSD, scarred and haunted by his military service. He doesn’t want to let anyone in, but wants to protect Jeremy even as he’s falling for him-even if he doesn’t want to admit it. Jeremy is naive and innocent, sweet, you just want to pull him in close and hold him tight. He easily falls for Andrew, while navigating the London social scene for the first time as he searches for a patron. The two of them together are hot and their intimate scenes sensual and steamy.
They are so good for each other, and it really bothered me to think that they might not end up together. One of the things that kills me whenever I read historical M/M romance is the fact that the characters simply cannot allow their sexual orientation to be known, let alone to be public about any relationship they might have. This fact adds tremendous angst to the genre, and while the outcome in the end isn’t necessarily ideal by today’s standards it does give the story an ending that is satisfying given the restraints of the time period.
I loved Jeremy and Andrew together, and it bugged me how Andrew kept trying to keep Jeremy at arms length emotionally while still wanting to be close to him in every other way. I was frustrated by Andrew pursuing a woman to marry due to the necessities of the time period so he can produce an heir, even if that is something that is expected due to the era in which the story takes place. Throw in some extra drama thanks to a not-so-nice character with a grudge and all of this makes for a riveting read that will tug at your heart.
4.5 stars for The Viscount and the Artist (that half star is purely due to my personal annoyance with the restraints of the time period regarding M/M relationships)…and I do highly recommend this story to M/M historical romance fans. It is definitely for readers 18+ due to adult language and M/M sexual content (the kind that will have you reaching for the ice cubes and fans to cool off!). I can’t wait for more in this series!
Andrew is severely conflicted, suffering from PTSD, scarred and haunted by his military service. He doesn’t want to let anyone in, but wants to protect Jeremy even as he’s falling for him-even if he doesn’t want to admit it. Jeremy is naive and innocent, sweet, you just want to pull him in close and hold him tight. He easily falls for Andrew, while navigating the London social scene for the first time as he searches for a patron. The two of them together are hot and their intimate scenes sensual and steamy.
They are so good for each other, and it really bothered me to think that they might not end up together. One of the things that kills me whenever I read historical M/M romance is the fact that the characters simply cannot allow their sexual orientation to be known, let alone to be public about any relationship they might have. This fact adds tremendous angst to the genre, and while the outcome in the end isn’t necessarily ideal by today’s standards it does give the story an ending that is satisfying given the restraints of the time period.
I loved Jeremy and Andrew together, and it bugged me how Andrew kept trying to keep Jeremy at arms length emotionally while still wanting to be close to him in every other way. I was frustrated by Andrew pursuing a woman to marry due to the necessities of the time period so he can produce an heir, even if that is something that is expected due to the era in which the story takes place. Throw in some extra drama thanks to a not-so-nice character with a grudge and all of this makes for a riveting read that will tug at your heart.
4.5 stars for The Viscount and the Artist (that half star is purely due to my personal annoyance with the restraints of the time period regarding M/M relationships)…and I do highly recommend this story to M/M historical romance fans. It is definitely for readers 18+ due to adult language and M/M sexual content (the kind that will have you reaching for the ice cubes and fans to cool off!). I can’t wait for more in this series!
September 8, 2016
Hopefully The Start of a New Series
This is the only book by Alyson Pearce that I could find and if it's her debut, and if it's correctly labeled as the first in a new series (The Eccentrics), then we are all in for a wonderful bunch of Regency period romps.
The characters of Andrew and Jeremy are tightly and brilliantly developed, and the fact that it's the older Andrew who is the wavering soul and the younger Jeremy who will not be toyed with or kept as a secret, is a refreshing change.
The supporting characters, ranging from Andrew's similarly closeted but much more realistic friends, to Andrew's intended wife, to various and sundried gentlefolk patrons and one seriously depraved noble are very good ingredients for a mix which delights from the start.
The ending is really interesting because it opens the door for sequels involving both Andrew and Jeremy and other members of this enlightened group. Can't wait for it.
This is the only book by Alyson Pearce that I could find and if it's her debut, and if it's correctly labeled as the first in a new series (The Eccentrics), then we are all in for a wonderful bunch of Regency period romps.
The characters of Andrew and Jeremy are tightly and brilliantly developed, and the fact that it's the older Andrew who is the wavering soul and the younger Jeremy who will not be toyed with or kept as a secret, is a refreshing change.
The supporting characters, ranging from Andrew's similarly closeted but much more realistic friends, to Andrew's intended wife, to various and sundried gentlefolk patrons and one seriously depraved noble are very good ingredients for a mix which delights from the start.
The ending is really interesting because it opens the door for sequels involving both Andrew and Jeremy and other members of this enlightened group. Can't wait for it.
November 5, 2016
1.5 stars.
It is most aggravating and disappointing when reading a story that is meant to be historical turned out to be as if I'm reading a story with 'historical overtones' about Rural Anywhere in 2016.
As this is the first book in a series, I wonder if the author would put the 'historical' in the historical era in the remaining book(s). That is, make more effort at researching the time period and everything that goes with it -mainly the dialogue, people, places. Don't just write the names, show them in their era properly.
For me, the plot was predictable and clichéd like those dry Mills & Boons back in the 70s with silly and unnecessary misunderstandings that was pointless in the first place.
Man, in my aggravation didn't I just want gather the characters in this book, tie them together and drop them in a drum of tar, take them out, wash them off and shake some historical life and sense into them.
It is most aggravating and disappointing when reading a story that is meant to be historical turned out to be as if I'm reading a story with 'historical overtones' about Rural Anywhere in 2016.
As this is the first book in a series, I wonder if the author would put the 'historical' in the historical era in the remaining book(s). That is, make more effort at researching the time period and everything that goes with it -mainly the dialogue, people, places. Don't just write the names, show them in their era properly.
For me, the plot was predictable and clichéd like those dry Mills & Boons back in the 70s with silly and unnecessary misunderstandings that was pointless in the first place.
Man, in my aggravation didn't I just want gather the characters in this book, tie them together and drop them in a drum of tar, take them out, wash them off and shake some historical life and sense into them.
November 21, 2016
3.5 stars.
This is a very decently put together book by a new author and as far as Romance (tm) goes, it's really well done.
The thing why I'm not all raving about this is that I recently found out that I'm rather allergic to certain tropes, which apparently are in the range from "I'll leave you for your own good" to "I cannot be with you because I will loose you (because I've lost a lot of people before you, so just trust me on this one, and also I feel really, really guilty). That's like, um, prematurly aborted Romance with a lot of the big misunderstanding and guilt and miscommuication, and really, personally I'm a bit tired of it.
This is a competently put together book and I feel a little guilty giving it three stars because with regard to simple craftsmanship it is definitely a cut above a lot of books I've read. I just don't happen to like the trope.
Anyhow, if you don't mind those tropes, go ahead and read it. I have definitely high hopes for this author.
This is a very decently put together book by a new author and as far as Romance (tm) goes, it's really well done.
The thing why I'm not all raving about this is that I recently found out that I'm rather allergic to certain tropes, which apparently are in the range from "I'll leave you for your own good" to "I cannot be with you because I will loose you (because I've lost a lot of people before you, so just trust me on this one, and also I feel really, really guilty). That's like, um, prematurly aborted Romance with a lot of the big misunderstanding and guilt and miscommuication, and really, personally I'm a bit tired of it.
This is a competently put together book and I feel a little guilty giving it three stars because with regard to simple craftsmanship it is definitely a cut above a lot of books I've read. I just don't happen to like the trope.
Anyhow, if you don't mind those tropes, go ahead and read it. I have definitely high hopes for this author.
July 12, 2017
I'm at about the 25% mark now and its pretty stupid... I keep nodding off through their annoyingly insincere love scenes and I think the story is probably ruined because it took a wrong turn at Albuquerque. I have a headache. Will add to this when I finish the book or give up. Pet peeve#1 there's only 7 years age difference between the MCs, but every other word she's calling them the younger man or the older man or "The boy" which first, hes 25 so that's not true, and 2nd, it's gross. Don't do that. The viscount is condescending in his little taming / teaching program and every time he speaks, I want to slap him.... TBC .. .
Ok I got to 44% before giving up. It was constant insecurity and jealousy and negativity. Everything either of them did either hurt the other's feelings or made them jealous. When that much is wrong, it's not worth it. This is toxicity at its finest. I've really not read such a childish book in many years!
Ok I got to 44% before giving up. It was constant insecurity and jealousy and negativity. Everything either of them did either hurt the other's feelings or made them jealous. When that much is wrong, it's not worth it. This is toxicity at its finest. I've really not read such a childish book in many years!
September 24, 2016
1-Click your copy today!
I looked forward to reading this book as soon as I knew it was coming, and I wasn't disappointed.
A fabulous Regency romp of a read that kept me turning page after page after page.
Both main characters have many-layered backstories and personalities, and are supported by equally interesting and likeable extras.
I hope the following books in this series are just as complex and lively as this one.
I looked forward to reading this book as soon as I knew it was coming, and I wasn't disappointed.
A fabulous Regency romp of a read that kept me turning page after page after page.
Both main characters have many-layered backstories and personalities, and are supported by equally interesting and likeable extras.
I hope the following books in this series are just as complex and lively as this one.
October 17, 2020
A missed opportunity - disjointed in the first half, better towards the end, but so cliche
There are some books you hate to put down and can't wait to pick up again.
This is not one of those books.
For the first half, it's a disjointed, disconnected book, more like a collection of parts than a story, missing the connective tissue needed to make them the parts of a whole. It gets better in the second half, good enough that I could see it could have been above average if the author had paid more attention to the tools of the trade to shape the narrative. The thing is, she clearly cared about the book, as shown by her careful use of historical references.
A mixed up novel, many of the parts for an effective story are present, but it's like someone took all of the notes in a song and moved them around haphazardly. You have the same notes, but unless they are in a coherent sequence there's no melody, no rhythm. For instance, it's revealed late in the story that Andrew (a former soldier who has experienced much loss, playing the uke role) has what we'd call PTSD. But there's hardly any descriptive or behavioral evidence from earlier in the book supporting this revelation. The fact that he has PTSD is thrown in willy-nilly without considering how it's implications for shaping the rest of the story.
Further, the author gives Andrew a war wound, a hideous scar on his torso, that all of his bed-partners supposedly mock. One of my fields is disability services, and I'm familiar with the history of physical disability in the 18th century; this type of universal response to a physical injury, at a time when many were physically disabled because of war, is unlikely. It's even more unlikely among the aristocratic class, where pity, feigned or not, would most likely be the response. If the author were a juggler, she'd be dropping balls left and right.
The second half is much better, with stronger characterization and a more integrated, cohesive plot. I got a better understanding of Jeremy (a 21 year old Oxford-trained artist looking for a patron to help him get into the Royal Academy, who is in the seme role), though I never got a real sense of his passion for art. As a painter and professor, I know quite a bit about the painting experience and about the history of the Royal Academy, and I'm still looking for the great Regency M/M Romance featuring an in depth portrayal of an artist. This book wasn't it.
There are some books you hate to put down and can't wait to pick up again.
This is not one of those books.
For the first half, it's a disjointed, disconnected book, more like a collection of parts than a story, missing the connective tissue needed to make them the parts of a whole. It gets better in the second half, good enough that I could see it could have been above average if the author had paid more attention to the tools of the trade to shape the narrative. The thing is, she clearly cared about the book, as shown by her careful use of historical references.
A mixed up novel, many of the parts for an effective story are present, but it's like someone took all of the notes in a song and moved them around haphazardly. You have the same notes, but unless they are in a coherent sequence there's no melody, no rhythm. For instance, it's revealed late in the story that Andrew (a former soldier who has experienced much loss, playing the uke role) has what we'd call PTSD. But there's hardly any descriptive or behavioral evidence from earlier in the book supporting this revelation. The fact that he has PTSD is thrown in willy-nilly without considering how it's implications for shaping the rest of the story.
Further, the author gives Andrew a war wound, a hideous scar on his torso, that all of his bed-partners supposedly mock. One of my fields is disability services, and I'm familiar with the history of physical disability in the 18th century; this type of universal response to a physical injury, at a time when many were physically disabled because of war, is unlikely. It's even more unlikely among the aristocratic class, where pity, feigned or not, would most likely be the response. If the author were a juggler, she'd be dropping balls left and right.
The second half is much better, with stronger characterization and a more integrated, cohesive plot. I got a better understanding of Jeremy (a 21 year old Oxford-trained artist looking for a patron to help him get into the Royal Academy, who is in the seme role), though I never got a real sense of his passion for art. As a painter and professor, I know quite a bit about the painting experience and about the history of the Royal Academy, and I'm still looking for the great Regency M/M Romance featuring an in depth portrayal of an artist. This book wasn't it.
August 29, 2022
Andrew was severely injured while serving in the way. He came back from war a changed man. As the new viscount, he has to provide his family security and stability, which means taking a wife, even if he prefers men. Jeremy is the son of one of Andrew's deceased uncles' friends. Jeremy wants to be an artist, but his father doesn't think he has what it takes to be an artist. Andrew agrees to sponsor Jeremy for the season and be his teacher in everything he needs to know about men with their proclivity.
I wanted to like this book since it sounded interesting, and overall, I did enjoy a lot of the secondary characters, but I couldn't connect with Andrew and Jeremy. Andrew was all about being a martyr even when his friends tried to see reason, while Jeremy was sometimes a bit of a child and spoiled. I liked Jeremy more than Andrew. Jeremy's behavior could be explained because he was pretty naive in everything outside the area he grew up in.
I wanted to like this book since it sounded interesting, and overall, I did enjoy a lot of the secondary characters, but I couldn't connect with Andrew and Jeremy. Andrew was all about being a martyr even when his friends tried to see reason, while Jeremy was sometimes a bit of a child and spoiled. I liked Jeremy more than Andrew. Jeremy's behavior could be explained because he was pretty naive in everything outside the area he grew up in.
March 30, 2022
Returned home from the bloody war in Barossa Andrew suffers from what we now call PTSD, he is withdrawn, dead of feelings, ashamed of the scars on his body. His immediate attraction to younger Jeremy throws him into great conflict, his deep sense of honour and duty take a heavy toll on Andrew and his constant resistance to his feelings for Jeremy was both frustrating and heartbreaking. He had lost so many close to him, and so scarred from the war he has little faith in himself at all. A gorgeous story, wonderful plot, very touching indeed.
July 19, 2018
A sweet little historic romance, not quite as sexy as some others. Not one to read if you are a stickler for historical accuracy or language - particularly the frequent descriptions of ass for bottoms (quite sure that would have only been used to describe donkeys!). Apparently, the prostate has always been the easiest to find body part on a man! Would probably look out for the follow up on unlimited again.
February 10, 2021
Hidden love
Learning to love after losing friends, family and lovers is a lesson not easily accepted but Ms. Pearce writes with such poignancy and understanding that you catch yourself enmeshed in her characters emotions and heartache. Wonderful love story that stays with you say after day!
Learning to love after losing friends, family and lovers is a lesson not easily accepted but Ms. Pearce writes with such poignancy and understanding that you catch yourself enmeshed in her characters emotions and heartache. Wonderful love story that stays with you say after day!
Read
August 4, 2019I literally don’t remember opening this book.
February 20, 2020
Ugh, so boring.
June 14, 2020
If you like Victorian gay romance, you will live this book.
I very enjoyed the book. Two broken men feel love and ignore social norms - as much as possible for the times.
I very enjoyed the book. Two broken men feel love and ignore social norms - as much as possible for the times.
Read
January 6, 2021Idk, Andrew struck me as hovering between predatory and needy. Not a good trait on main characters. Combined with awfully naive Jeremy, the story gave weird vibes to me.
March 2, 2017
A Great First Novel
I could not believe that this was Alyson Pieces first novel. The story line was strong and her characters were totally believable. I look forward to her next novel with great anticipation.
I could not believe that this was Alyson Pieces first novel. The story line was strong and her characters were totally believable. I look forward to her next novel with great anticipation.
October 21, 2016
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.***
Andrew Cardwell is named the new Viscount Cardwell, after his uncle died, which is the last thing he'd ever wanted. He's scarred mentally and physically after the war, not willing to let anyone in. Not only is he not willing to marry anyone to continue with the Cardwell line, but his inclinations lie toward other pursuits that have nothing to do with women.
Jeremy is an artist and has been infatuated with Andrew, the new Lord Cardwell, since he was a little boy and now that he's back home, the last thing he expected was to find out Andrew liked him, too, offering to be his patron for the season and tutor him in the art of loving.
Phoebe, Andrew's cousin, is intent on having Andrew marry her dear friend, who is a widow and none too happy about Jeremy's association with Andrew, which creates trouble for the main couple, who have to hide from everyone but Andrew's friends. But when an old enemy of Andrew's family finds out the true nature of Jeremy and Andrew's relationship, there might be more at risk than them being hung up for their liaison.
I really liked Jeremy. He was younger than Andrew and while innocent in almost all ways, he fully embraced their relationship. My heart broke for him when Andrew didn't really give him a chance to explain and sent him away and I wanted to throttle Andrew because of that! Grrr! I liked Andrew, but he was too wrapped in his pain and his past and didn't really give Jeremy a chance until it was almost too late. They were really sweet and I liked their scenes together.
I love historical books, and this one was a good one, but there were a few issues that really didn't sit all that well with me. Like, for example, that Andrew gave that much power to his cousin over him as to decide who he should marry and actually consider it to the point of courting the lady in question, as if he couldn't find someone else to his own liking or that better suited his needs. Phoebe actually talked to him as if she were his mother, and while she might have had good intentions, it wasn't her place to speak to the Lord of the house in such a way, in my opinion.
Anyway, all in all, this was a nice read, well-written and that actually sounds historically accurate. I'll definitely be on the look out for more stories in the series, because I loved Thaddeus, Percy and Oliver and want to read more about them.
Rating: 4 Stars!
Andrew Cardwell is named the new Viscount Cardwell, after his uncle died, which is the last thing he'd ever wanted. He's scarred mentally and physically after the war, not willing to let anyone in. Not only is he not willing to marry anyone to continue with the Cardwell line, but his inclinations lie toward other pursuits that have nothing to do with women.
Jeremy is an artist and has been infatuated with Andrew, the new Lord Cardwell, since he was a little boy and now that he's back home, the last thing he expected was to find out Andrew liked him, too, offering to be his patron for the season and tutor him in the art of loving.
Phoebe, Andrew's cousin, is intent on having Andrew marry her dear friend, who is a widow and none too happy about Jeremy's association with Andrew, which creates trouble for the main couple, who have to hide from everyone but Andrew's friends. But when an old enemy of Andrew's family finds out the true nature of Jeremy and Andrew's relationship, there might be more at risk than them being hung up for their liaison.
I really liked Jeremy. He was younger than Andrew and while innocent in almost all ways, he fully embraced their relationship. My heart broke for him when Andrew didn't really give him a chance to explain and sent him away and I wanted to throttle Andrew because of that! Grrr! I liked Andrew, but he was too wrapped in his pain and his past and didn't really give Jeremy a chance until it was almost too late. They were really sweet and I liked their scenes together.
I love historical books, and this one was a good one, but there were a few issues that really didn't sit all that well with me. Like, for example, that Andrew gave that much power to his cousin over him as to decide who he should marry and actually consider it to the point of courting the lady in question, as if he couldn't find someone else to his own liking or that better suited his needs. Phoebe actually talked to him as if she were his mother, and while she might have had good intentions, it wasn't her place to speak to the Lord of the house in such a way, in my opinion.
Anyway, all in all, this was a nice read, well-written and that actually sounds historically accurate. I'll definitely be on the look out for more stories in the series, because I loved Thaddeus, Percy and Oliver and want to read more about them.
Rating: 4 Stars!
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