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London Legal #3
Convincing the Secretary
Business and pleasure is a mix no gentleman should consider.
Lord Grayson Holloway goes after what he wants—be it in the law office on his clients’ behalf or in the bedchamber. His new position as partner puts him closer to achieving his goal of becoming the most successful solicitor in London. There’s just one problem—his new secretary. Broad of shoulder yet mild of manner, Edward tempts Gray like no other. Yet the young man barely notices him.
Edward Fenton tries to be a good secretary, but being in Lord Grayson’s hard, commanding presence rouses Edward’s most forbidden desires. Wicked, naughty desires no gentleman should consider giving in to, let alone with his new employer.
Gray is more than willing to mix business with pleasure. But convincing Edward to take a chance on a future with him? That might be the most challenging case Gray has ever taken on.
Warning: Includes buttoned-up gentlemen who become undone, improper use of a desk, spankings, and a big bad lord who has a soft spot for his virgin secretary.
(34,500 words)
Note: This is a previously published work. This second edition has been edited with minor changes. For readers who purchased the original edition, this second edition is not substantially different.
Lord Grayson Holloway goes after what he wants—be it in the law office on his clients’ behalf or in the bedchamber. His new position as partner puts him closer to achieving his goal of becoming the most successful solicitor in London. There’s just one problem—his new secretary. Broad of shoulder yet mild of manner, Edward tempts Gray like no other. Yet the young man barely notices him.
Edward Fenton tries to be a good secretary, but being in Lord Grayson’s hard, commanding presence rouses Edward’s most forbidden desires. Wicked, naughty desires no gentleman should consider giving in to, let alone with his new employer.
Gray is more than willing to mix business with pleasure. But convincing Edward to take a chance on a future with him? That might be the most challenging case Gray has ever taken on.
Warning: Includes buttoned-up gentlemen who become undone, improper use of a desk, spankings, and a big bad lord who has a soft spot for his virgin secretary.
(34,500 words)
Note: This is a previously published work. This second edition has been edited with minor changes. For readers who purchased the original edition, this second edition is not substantially different.
159 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2016
24 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Ava March
27 books761 followersAva March is a bestselling author of sexy, emotionally intense M/M historical erotic romances. She loves writing in the Regency time period, where proper decorum is of the utmost importance, but where anything can happen behind closed doors. With over fifteen works to her credit, her books have been finalists in the Rainbow Awards and More Than Magic contest, and deemed ‘must-haves’ for Historical M/M romance by RT Book Reviews readers. Visit her website at www.AvaMarch.com to find out more about her books or to sign-up for her newsletter.
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Blog: www.avamarch.blogspot.com
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Twitter: www.twitter.com/ava_march
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 6, 2016
~4.25~
Edward has wicked thoughts. He wants to be spanked, domineered, humiliated. He wants to get down on his knees and be forced to perform dirty, illicit acts.
An artist, Edward is more interested in brushstrokes than paperwork. He only works as a legal secretary to please his father, who's indifferent toward his youngest son. Edward is scattered and doesn't have a passion for law, not like the solicitor he serves: the demanding, intense Lord Grayson.
When Gray sees Edward staring at his partner, Arthur Barrington (one of the MCs in the first two London Legal books), he's annoyed, jealous ... and intrigued.
This book has everything I love about Ava March historicals: romance, passion, steamy sex (with D/s overtones), and a period-appropriate (but still sparkly!) HEA.
Edward and Gray are all kinds of hot together. I loved that Gray allows himself to be open and vulnerable with Edward, and that both men are willing to apologize and communicate.
Humiliation is not usually my cuppa, but it works very well here. Edward is so eager to please, so wanton in his desires. The roughness is edged with tenderness.
Paddles, butt plugs, one grumpy Lord, and one very willing virgin included.
Ava March remains my all-time, hands-down favorite writer of historical M/M romance!
Edward has wicked thoughts. He wants to be spanked, domineered, humiliated. He wants to get down on his knees and be forced to perform dirty, illicit acts.
An artist, Edward is more interested in brushstrokes than paperwork. He only works as a legal secretary to please his father, who's indifferent toward his youngest son. Edward is scattered and doesn't have a passion for law, not like the solicitor he serves: the demanding, intense Lord Grayson.
When Gray sees Edward staring at his partner, Arthur Barrington (one of the MCs in the first two London Legal books), he's annoyed, jealous ... and intrigued.
This book has everything I love about Ava March historicals: romance, passion, steamy sex (with D/s overtones), and a period-appropriate (but still sparkly!) HEA.
Edward and Gray are all kinds of hot together. I loved that Gray allows himself to be open and vulnerable with Edward, and that both men are willing to apologize and communicate.
Humiliation is not usually my cuppa, but it works very well here. Edward is so eager to please, so wanton in his desires. The roughness is edged with tenderness.
Paddles, butt plugs, one grumpy Lord, and one very willing virgin included.
Ava March remains my all-time, hands-down favorite writer of historical M/M romance!
February 23, 2016
*3.5 stars*
I liked this little Ava March novella, which worked for me even though I jumped into this series at book 3.
I love that I always know what I'm going to get with an Ava March story. Her stuff is shamelessly kinky, really well written, and set in a historical time period. I love this author's consistency, and I've really come to rely on it when I pick up an Ava March book.
This book had so much going for it: we get a virgin (!!!), some spanking, and a bunch of dirty talking. I was a happy lady with the sex, that's for sure! However, the emotional connection between Edward and Gray... yeah, that didn't quite gel for me. I'm not sure if it's because I joined the series at book 3 (though I thought that it worked well as a stand-alone), but I think I needed more time for the feelings to develop.
All in all, this was another lovely, hot romance from the queen of smutty historicals, Ava March. I think most fans of hers will be very pleased with this one.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
I liked this little Ava March novella, which worked for me even though I jumped into this series at book 3.
I love that I always know what I'm going to get with an Ava March story. Her stuff is shamelessly kinky, really well written, and set in a historical time period. I love this author's consistency, and I've really come to rely on it when I pick up an Ava March book.
This book had so much going for it: we get a virgin (!!!), some spanking, and a bunch of dirty talking. I was a happy lady with the sex, that's for sure! However, the emotional connection between Edward and Gray... yeah, that didn't quite gel for me. I'm not sure if it's because I joined the series at book 3 (though I thought that it worked well as a stand-alone), but I think I needed more time for the feelings to develop.
All in all, this was another lovely, hot romance from the queen of smutty historicals, Ava March. I think most fans of hers will be very pleased with this one.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
January 26, 2016
**4.25 stars**
And we have a winner!
This is undoubtedly my favorite book in the London Legal series. I liked Convincing the secretary a lot more than the first two books, and I think it's obvious that Ava March has matured a lot as a writer.
We met Edward in Convincing Leopold, as Arthur's secretary. Now he works for Arthur's partner, Lord Grayson Holloway and, sadly, his office skills haven't improved one bit. But now we kow why. Edward is an artist and his heart is in painting. The reason he works as a legal secretary is to please his family. A family that doesn't care about him, and doesn't even see him.
But Gray does see his new, blushing, shy and awkward secretary that wouldn't even look him in the eye. He sees him, and he wants him! Little does he know that Edward has naughty thoughts and fantasies about Gray.
Yeah, he's naughty all right.
My highlights:
The first spanking scene was done to perfection. No sex, no clothes off, just a delicious punishment.
The first sex scene was beautiful, realistic and very emotional. Edward is so beautifully responsive and Gray is the right combination of aggresive and considerate lover.
There is romance too. It was a pleasant surprise that the MCs actually dated.
Edward might be mild-mannered and shy, but he stood his ground and was no doormat when he felt that Gray was being unfair to him or treated him bad.
The HEA is true to the time period, but very satisfying, and not overriden with angst, when the era provides plenty.
Overall, this was one of my favorites from this author and a great addition to the series.
Recommended!
*Also posted on Gay Book Reviews.*
And we have a winner!
This is undoubtedly my favorite book in the London Legal series. I liked Convincing the secretary a lot more than the first two books, and I think it's obvious that Ava March has matured a lot as a writer.
We met Edward in Convincing Leopold, as Arthur's secretary. Now he works for Arthur's partner, Lord Grayson Holloway and, sadly, his office skills haven't improved one bit. But now we kow why. Edward is an artist and his heart is in painting. The reason he works as a legal secretary is to please his family. A family that doesn't care about him, and doesn't even see him.
But Gray does see his new, blushing, shy and awkward secretary that wouldn't even look him in the eye. He sees him, and he wants him! Little does he know that Edward has naughty thoughts and fantasies about Gray.
“So you like being watched. What else do you like?”
“To be punished,”[...]
"What else?”
“To be told to do illicit things,” Edward said, voice above a whisper, stronger than before.
Yeah, he's naughty all right.
My highlights:
The first spanking scene was done to perfection. No sex, no clothes off, just a delicious punishment.
The first sex scene was beautiful, realistic and very emotional. Edward is so beautifully responsive and Gray is the right combination of aggresive and considerate lover.
There is romance too. It was a pleasant surprise that the MCs actually dated.
Edward might be mild-mannered and shy, but he stood his ground and was no doormat when he felt that Gray was being unfair to him or treated him bad.
The HEA is true to the time period, but very satisfying, and not overriden with angst, when the era provides plenty.
Overall, this was one of my favorites from this author and a great addition to the series.
Recommended!
*Also posted on Gay Book Reviews.*
March 9, 2016
3.5 stars.
Convincing the Secretary is a historical, slightly kinky M/M romance novella, which makes it a type of story I'd gladly read any day. I chose it because I have become a huge M/M historical romance fan thanks to books by K.J. Charles, and would like to find more good ones. This was also a chance to try something by Ava March, which I'd been meaning to do for a while. The fact that the main characters turned out to be a bit kinky was a very welcome bonus.
This being my first Ava March book ever, it goes without saying I haven't read the previous installments in the London Legal series, therefore I can't say how much, if anything, had already been said about Edward and Gray, the main characters in Convincing the Secretary. What I can say is that this story worked very well on its own, as I never felt I had missed some crucial detail about them while I was reading. Quite the opposite. Even though this is a novella, there was enough about Gray's and Edward's characteristics and their backgrounds to make me invested in their story of finding happiness.
And their story gave me all the right feels. From the anticipation of the start of their romance at the beginning, after both Gray and Edward had spent some time wanting each other and not acting on it believing the other didn't reciprocate the feeling... To them getting to know each other... To the giving into what they wished for, which for Edward meant being punished by Gray, making it all the more interesting to me... Then to the heartache that came from assumptions that came between them. That's the part where I became worried about where it would all lead, but I needn't have. It led to a satisfactory resolution, and a lovely happy ending.
All in all, an enjoyable novella, and a successful first read by this author. I look forward to reading more in the future.
***ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
May 3, 2019
**3.5 stars**
A nice historical romance. Ava March knows how to bring hotness into the mix. But it was short and I missed some development. It’s a novel and I’m a tough cookie to please when there’s around 100 pages : way too short to get engaged for me.
Still, enjoyable : kinky and dirty talk are there for sure.
PS : **Thank you “Winter Cherry Elf aka M’rella”** for this "hot" gift 😘
A nice historical romance. Ava March knows how to bring hotness into the mix. But it was short and I missed some development. It’s a novel and I’m a tough cookie to please when there’s around 100 pages : way too short to get engaged for me.
Still, enjoyable : kinky and dirty talk are there for sure.
PS : **Thank you “Winter Cherry Elf aka M’rella”** for this "hot" gift 😘
December 15, 2016
3.5 stars
I know what to expect when I read one of Ava March's books - two hot MCs, regency-era England, some family drama, a big misunderstanding between the MCs, and (usually) some hot kinky sex. 'Convincing the Secretary' followed this formula to the point. Sometimes Ava March's formula doesn't work for me, but in this case, the book hit the right notes.
I really liked the set-up of the assertive rakish employer and the quiet virgin secretary. Office romances are usually a win for me, so I was looking forward to reading this book.
The author gets bonus points for incorporating some sexy times in the office. Nothing says 'romance' like getting spanked over the boss's desk. And of course, the sex was as hot as I've come to expect from this author. Spankings, humiliation, butt plugs, and dildos. My inner perv was happy.
I also liked that unlike in many of Ava March's books, the MCs in this one didn't let their misunderstandings fester for too long. Edward and Gray might act like buffoons at times, but they get over their anger quickly and communicate with each other.
My only complaint would be that Edward and Gray jumped from physical to emotional very quickly. Until their big misunderstanding, the two were mainly focused on the hot sex, with the emotions playing second fiddle. The jump into the angst was pretty abrupt. I don't think the emotional side of the relationship was fully developed. But given how much I enjoyed the majority of the book, I could let it slide.
'Convincing the Secretary' is sure to please fans of this author. It can be read fine as a stand-alone. While I had some issues with the last 30% or so, the majority of the book was a fun and sexy read. I'd recommend it for readers looking for an MM historical with some light kink on the side.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
I know what to expect when I read one of Ava March's books - two hot MCs, regency-era England, some family drama, a big misunderstanding between the MCs, and (usually) some hot kinky sex. 'Convincing the Secretary' followed this formula to the point. Sometimes Ava March's formula doesn't work for me, but in this case, the book hit the right notes.
I really liked the set-up of the assertive rakish employer and the quiet virgin secretary. Office romances are usually a win for me, so I was looking forward to reading this book.
The author gets bonus points for incorporating some sexy times in the office. Nothing says 'romance' like getting spanked over the boss's desk. And of course, the sex was as hot as I've come to expect from this author. Spankings, humiliation, butt plugs, and dildos. My inner perv was happy.
I also liked that unlike in many of Ava March's books, the MCs in this one didn't let their misunderstandings fester for too long. Edward and Gray might act like buffoons at times, but they get over their anger quickly and communicate with each other.
My only complaint would be that Edward and Gray jumped from physical to emotional very quickly. Until their big misunderstanding, the two were mainly focused on the hot sex, with the emotions playing second fiddle. The jump into the angst was pretty abrupt. I don't think the emotional side of the relationship was fully developed. But given how much I enjoyed the majority of the book, I could let it slide.
'Convincing the Secretary' is sure to please fans of this author. It can be read fine as a stand-alone. While I had some issues with the last 30% or so, the majority of the book was a fun and sexy read. I'd recommend it for readers looking for an MM historical with some light kink on the side.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
July 28, 2016
This was a sweet book. Definitely less kinky and more sweet than I thought it'd be, but still enjoyable.
The kink is light, not nearly enough humiliation for what i was expecting :-(. Edward and Gray have a bit of fun with spankings and butt plugs but Most of the story is about them overcoming their individual insecurities to be together. It was as sweet and romantic as Ava March's stories normally are.
The kink is light, not nearly enough humiliation for what i was expecting :-(. Edward and Gray have a bit of fun with spankings and butt plugs but Most of the story is about them overcoming their individual insecurities to be together. It was as sweet and romantic as Ava March's stories normally are.
February 20, 2016
I thought this was a well done little novella. I’d never read the earlier books in this series, but this definitely can stand on its own.
The forbidden feel of this romance was strong, between the boss/secretary angle and the mild BDSM aspects, all covered in a tasty layer of danger because of the historical reality of the need to be subtle about their relationship.
I was really happy to see that Ms. March took time to develop the characters instead of focusing strictly on the hot, smutty sex and the story was all the stronger for it. If you’re looking for a little shot of M/M in an historical setting, I would recommend this. I’ve found a new M/M author to follow.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
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February 5, 2016
3.5 stars
At first, I was a bit confused because what I could remember (a little bit) about Edward in the previous book didn't match Edward that I met in this one. Somehow I thought Edward was a little more forward -- in the end of my review for Convincing Leopold, I wrote "I definitely look forward to the upcoming release in this series that features Fenton, Arthur's rake of a secretary." -- so clearly I didn't see Edward as meek or shy. Even if my memory was clouded with how jealous Leopold saw Edward.
Then I decided to throw all of my initial perceptions (and expectation) to the wind... and it became much better. Yes, the relationship happened pretty fast, and there was that trope of misunderstanding which drove our men shortly apart... BUT, I wasn't too annoyed. I was even able to enjoy the numerous sex scenes with the D/s tone because hey, when I was in the mood for it, D/s could be my kink (as long as both parties enjoy it and there isn't too much pain/humiliation to it).
So yeah, it is likable, the kind of steamy stories coming from Ava March.
The ARC is provided by the author for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
At first, I was a bit confused because what I could remember (a little bit) about Edward in the previous book didn't match Edward that I met in this one. Somehow I thought Edward was a little more forward -- in the end of my review for Convincing Leopold, I wrote "I definitely look forward to the upcoming release in this series that features Fenton, Arthur's rake of a secretary." -- so clearly I didn't see Edward as meek or shy. Even if my memory was clouded with how jealous Leopold saw Edward.
Then I decided to throw all of my initial perceptions (and expectation) to the wind... and it became much better. Yes, the relationship happened pretty fast, and there was that trope of misunderstanding which drove our men shortly apart... BUT, I wasn't too annoyed. I was even able to enjoy the numerous sex scenes with the D/s tone because hey, when I was in the mood for it, D/s could be my kink (as long as both parties enjoy it and there isn't too much pain/humiliation to it).
So yeah, it is likable, the kind of steamy stories coming from Ava March.
The ARC is provided by the author for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
June 14, 2018
4.1 Stars
I liked this one better than the first, but because the story is a novella it didn't have time to delve more into the relationship than just the establishment & working through the misunderstandings. Something about Edward appealed to me, though. I loved his embarrassed, sensual sexuality, and for once I appreciated the humiliation kink. (Very slight, and tied to his wanton desire for Gray.)
Not sure if she has any more of these planned, but I'd totally read them if Ava wrote them!
I liked this one better than the first, but because the story is a novella it didn't have time to delve more into the relationship than just the establishment & working through the misunderstandings. Something about Edward appealed to me, though. I loved his embarrassed, sensual sexuality, and for once I appreciated the humiliation kink. (Very slight, and tied to his wanton desire for Gray.)
Not sure if she has any more of these planned, but I'd totally read them if Ava wrote them!
January 15, 2016
This was surprising. First, I'm not a huge fan of historical books, but I keep trying them. This story was one of the good ones. Book 3 in a series I've not read before, and thankfully, it was not necessary to have read the first two books. At 138 pages, it can be difficult to tell a story this well.
Edward is dreaming of spankings, dirty talk, being made to submit. He's also an artist working as a secretary, something he really does not want to do. The romance is quick, and the writing showed me that fierce attraction, and how it had been building for both gentlemen. Their interactions are, at first, really anxious. Later, as they become intimate, the way Edward is so sure of himself, letting Grayson know exactly what he needs and wants from their relationship, it's a little breathtaking. I enjoyed that the story really focuses on the two MC's and there are few interactions with others. There was just enough extra to give me a good idea about their lives and how they needed each other. These guys are really hot together, tender, and sweet, loving and kind. Well, kind most of the time.
I really had a lot of fun reading this, and look forward to going back to read the first two books in the series.
I was provided with an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Edward is dreaming of spankings, dirty talk, being made to submit. He's also an artist working as a secretary, something he really does not want to do. The romance is quick, and the writing showed me that fierce attraction, and how it had been building for both gentlemen. Their interactions are, at first, really anxious. Later, as they become intimate, the way Edward is so sure of himself, letting Grayson know exactly what he needs and wants from their relationship, it's a little breathtaking. I enjoyed that the story really focuses on the two MC's and there are few interactions with others. There was just enough extra to give me a good idea about their lives and how they needed each other. These guys are really hot together, tender, and sweet, loving and kind. Well, kind most of the time.
I really had a lot of fun reading this, and look forward to going back to read the first two books in the series.
I was provided with an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2016
This book was so good!
More and more I am starting to love historical romances and this one was just amazing!
Lord Grayson goes after he wants and he wants his new secretary Edward.
I loved these two men together and I loved the way this author wrote Grayson and Edwards characters. The fear they both have of being found out, but the feelings they have for each other that Grayson and Edward can not ignore anymore.
I also loved the way this author wrote this story which grabbed me from the start! You get your steam which was so hot and also the feel of what it was like to live in that time which I thought the author did a amazing job with.
So I will leave this review with... I 100% loved this book and would definitely recommend it!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
More and more I am starting to love historical romances and this one was just amazing!
Lord Grayson goes after he wants and he wants his new secretary Edward.
I loved these two men together and I loved the way this author wrote Grayson and Edwards characters. The fear they both have of being found out, but the feelings they have for each other that Grayson and Edward can not ignore anymore.
I also loved the way this author wrote this story which grabbed me from the start! You get your steam which was so hot and also the feel of what it was like to live in that time which I thought the author did a amazing job with.
So I will leave this review with... I 100% loved this book and would definitely recommend it!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
January 21, 2024
This third book in the London Legal series leaves us with Thornton and Barrington happily together, and gives us two new characters - Lord Grayson Holloway, a new partner at the firm and his legal secretary, Ben Fenton. Granted, these two have paper-thin character development, but their story ends up being a sweet one. 4 stars.
June 21, 2017
*** 4.25 Stars ***
January 6, 2016
Following closely after Convincing Leopold where Thorn had suggested Arthur took on a solicitor partner and assigned his infatuated secretary - Edward Fenton - to that partner, Lord Grayson Holloway joined the Barrington practise.
Unlike Arthur/Leopold, Gray and Edward's romance was quite a speedy affair, blossoming weeks after they met. Though the attractions were suppressed by both parties while at the same time they made assumption of one another.
As the two previous titles, the story was also told in alternate POVs of Gray and Edward. Both character had rather sad family background - of being ignored/contempt - which somewhat explained their inability to trust others.
Edward was timid personified which made him not a lovable character, though he redeemed himself in the end by showing some steel and finally own to himself! But after the way he acted on Convincing Leopold I was expecting him to be a more exciting character than this. His fantasy and fascination with sex toys combined with his virginal state mystified me. I wish there was an overlapped explanation on how he come to realize Arthur/Thorn relationship, as I find his switching of affection from Arthur to Gray was too sudden.
I disliked how quick to assume Gray was and the way he acted after such nights spent with Edward. The romance and chemistry between these two was not too believable (perhaps due to merely weeks of acquaintance and after only two days of "actions") and quite rushed.
Perhaps had the story been longer and were there more interaction phase between the MCs, this might sit better with me. Generally I'm no fan of too smutty story; even so, the light BDSM here was not an issue for me. But I felt something not totally - I couldn't find the right word - fitting about Edward/Gray's courtship. On top of that, I had issue with how Edward's family treated him (at least with Gray we know the story). It seemed wrong that the story ended with nothing more told on that end.
ARC is kindly given by the author for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
Unlike Arthur/Leopold, Gray and Edward's romance was quite a speedy affair, blossoming weeks after they met. Though the attractions were suppressed by both parties while at the same time they made assumption of one another.
As the two previous titles, the story was also told in alternate POVs of Gray and Edward. Both character had rather sad family background - of being ignored/contempt - which somewhat explained their inability to trust others.
Edward was timid personified which made him not a lovable character, though he redeemed himself in the end by showing some steel and finally own to himself! But after the way he acted on Convincing Leopold I was expecting him to be a more exciting character than this. His fantasy and fascination with sex toys combined with his virginal state mystified me. I wish there was an overlapped explanation on how he come to realize Arthur/Thorn relationship, as I find his switching of affection from Arthur to Gray was too sudden.
I disliked how quick to assume Gray was and the way he acted after such nights spent with Edward. The romance and chemistry between these two was not too believable (perhaps due to merely weeks of acquaintance and after only two days of "actions") and quite rushed.
Perhaps had the story been longer and were there more interaction phase between the MCs, this might sit better with me. Generally I'm no fan of too smutty story; even so, the light BDSM here was not an issue for me. But I felt something not totally - I couldn't find the right word - fitting about Edward/Gray's courtship. On top of that, I had issue with how Edward's family treated him (at least with Gray we know the story). It seemed wrong that the story ended with nothing more told on that end.
ARC is kindly given by the author for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
April 2, 2016
Woohoo! Edward Fenton is a dirty, DIRTY boy!!
Convincing the Secretary is easily my favorite book in the London Legal series thus far. We met Edward in Convincing Leopold, distracted and mooning all over Arthur. Now, there’s a new solicitor in the office and his name is Lord Grayson Holloway…and Edward is now his secretary. Gray arouses new hungers in Edward…kinky and depraved and humiliating fantasies that has Edward shying away from Gray. Once Gray recognizes that Edward isn’t really terrified of him and is actually attracted to him, Gray implements his plan to get Edward naked and submitting to his desires.
Oh man, I loved everything about this book. Silly me started reading it after midnight, on a work night, and didn’t stop until I was finished. It was THAT good I could NOT put it down or even stop reading for a second. The sexual tension between Gray and Edward started on page one and just ramped up from there…to kinky, dirty things!! On the desk, standing up, in the carriage, on the floor… Then there were toys! Gah!! This is exactly what I love about Ava March’s books!
Also, Gray and Edward were both likable characters with believable insecurities. Of course those insecurities come between them, but only briefly and all misunderstandings are quickly cleaned up.
Okay, there WAS more than just sex happening, too. There was a little side story with one of Gray’s clients and I was a tiny bit disappointed that it didn’t take up a larger role in the story than it did. The resolution was completely anticlimactic.
I’m not sure if the author has plans for anymore books in this series, but I wouldn’t mind getting more of Gray and Edward…even though the ending here feels like a HEA to me.
4.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
Convincing the Secretary is easily my favorite book in the London Legal series thus far. We met Edward in Convincing Leopold, distracted and mooning all over Arthur. Now, there’s a new solicitor in the office and his name is Lord Grayson Holloway…and Edward is now his secretary. Gray arouses new hungers in Edward…kinky and depraved and humiliating fantasies that has Edward shying away from Gray. Once Gray recognizes that Edward isn’t really terrified of him and is actually attracted to him, Gray implements his plan to get Edward naked and submitting to his desires.
Oh man, I loved everything about this book. Silly me started reading it after midnight, on a work night, and didn’t stop until I was finished. It was THAT good I could NOT put it down or even stop reading for a second. The sexual tension between Gray and Edward started on page one and just ramped up from there…to kinky, dirty things!! On the desk, standing up, in the carriage, on the floor… Then there were toys! Gah!! This is exactly what I love about Ava March’s books!
Also, Gray and Edward were both likable characters with believable insecurities. Of course those insecurities come between them, but only briefly and all misunderstandings are quickly cleaned up.
Okay, there WAS more than just sex happening, too. There was a little side story with one of Gray’s clients and I was a tiny bit disappointed that it didn’t take up a larger role in the story than it did. The resolution was completely anticlimactic.
I’m not sure if the author has plans for anymore books in this series, but I wouldn’t mind getting more of Gray and Edward…even though the ending here feels like a HEA to me.
4.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
March 29, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Oh, I love Ava March’s historicals and this one is sexy and juicy and really fun. Convincing the Secretary is the latest in her London Legal series, following the rerelease of Convincing Arthur and Convincing Leopold. I originally reviewed those back in 2011 when they were first published by Loose Id, but they have now been rereleased as part of this series by Samhain Publishing. You could easily jump into this book without reading them as the only connection with the other two stories is that Arthur is Gray’s law partner, but they are excellent and if you enjoy sexy historicals, they are definitely worth reading.
I love the set up here with the big, kind of gruff Gray and his somewhat anxious, virgin secretary. Gray recognizes Edward’s interest in men, but it takes a bit for him to realize Edward is also interested in him. And Gray is particularly delighted that Edward’s kinks toward taking orders and a little humiliation exactly match up with his own. The guys are super hot together and this story is definitely steamy.
Aside from the sexy times, the book also deals with some personal issues each man has. I liked the way each man gains confidence through his relationship with the other. In particular, Edward finds the strength to pursue what he really wants out of life, and things tie together nicely at the end of the story.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Oh, I love Ava March’s historicals and this one is sexy and juicy and really fun. Convincing the Secretary is the latest in her London Legal series, following the rerelease of Convincing Arthur and Convincing Leopold. I originally reviewed those back in 2011 when they were first published by Loose Id, but they have now been rereleased as part of this series by Samhain Publishing. You could easily jump into this book without reading them as the only connection with the other two stories is that Arthur is Gray’s law partner, but they are excellent and if you enjoy sexy historicals, they are definitely worth reading.
I love the set up here with the big, kind of gruff Gray and his somewhat anxious, virgin secretary. Gray recognizes Edward’s interest in men, but it takes a bit for him to realize Edward is also interested in him. And Gray is particularly delighted that Edward’s kinks toward taking orders and a little humiliation exactly match up with his own. The guys are super hot together and this story is definitely steamy.
Aside from the sexy times, the book also deals with some personal issues each man has. I liked the way each man gains confidence through his relationship with the other. In particular, Edward finds the strength to pursue what he really wants out of life, and things tie together nicely at the end of the story.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 10, 2016
Now this is the Ava March that I know and love. I enjoyed the previous 2 books in this series, but I loved this one. Kinky and hot. I highly recommend this one!
September 11, 2018
There's lot of potential here--the two initial sex scenes between Grey and Edward were scorching--but for me, this story faltered as it progressed. This is a story that would have benefited from an extra 25-50 pages of story. It started with such great promise, but by the end, it felt rushed. More time was needed to develop Grey and Edward's relationship for us the believe the potential they saw in each other and/or their relationship. Ava March is a great writer--and there was some great heat here--but this is one story where I felt cheated by the page length and wish the author had decided to write a longer, more developed story instead.
July 24, 2017
This struck me as pretty classic Ava March--a well-written historical with lots of smut. This is a likeable and fairly lightweight novella.
March 16, 2016
Ava March is an auto-read author for me. She’s got the market on Regency gay romance pretty well tied up (sometimes the tying up in her books is literal, even), and I love her work for one simple reason: you always know what you’re going to get. In some cases, that wouldn’t seem a compliment, but in this one it is, because while certain themes and historical social cues prevail throughout her body of work, the one thing that makes each of the books great to sink into is the men she peoples those stories with. Her books really are a perfect way to make the real world go away for a little while, and who among us doesn’t read fiction for that very reason?
In Convincing the Secretary, book three in the London Legal series, Lord Grayson Holloway and his secretary, Edward Fenton, are engaged in a game of seduction and evasion, miscues and miscommunications. Fenton has been handed off to Grayson by his partner in the firm, Arthur Barrington, and to all appearances it would seem that Fenton is rather pining for his former boss, which doesn’t settle well with Grayson, of course, because there’s a part of him that wishes Fenton would look at him with the same sort of longing and devotion. It certainly isn’t Fenton’s competence as a secretary that’s keeping him employed, as is soon revealed, so with little hesitation or forethought, Grayson sets a course he hopes will lead to swaying Fenton’s attentions and affections in his direction.
Edward Fenton is the younger of the two men, inexperienced and more than a little ashamed of his desires. It’s not so much his attraction to men that causes his shame—he’s seen firsthand in Arthur Barrington and Leopold Thornton’s relationship that it’s possible for two men to find love and happiness together—but that Edward’s desires lean toward the need to be dominated, maybe even toward a little gentle humiliation, a proclivity he’s sure means there’s something perverse about him. The issue for poor Fenton is that Grayson oozes the sort of authoritative air Fenton craves, the man is temptation personified, and Edward can’t keep from becoming aroused when he’s in Grayson’s presence—something Lord Grayson begins to take notice of and decides to capitalize on.
The cat and mouse game gets underway, which is when all the miscues and miscommunications I mentioned begin to complicate matters a bit—this being one of the elements of the expected in March’s escapist romance. There’s always one last hurdle to overcome, whether it be a misunderstanding or the wrong words spoken, before her men can begin their life together.
The Regency Era and its well-heeled propriety always works well as a contrast to what March has her characters getting up to in private. This author writes gentlemen who throw off all their staid and genteel inhibitions once the doors are closed and locked, and showcases their sexual hungers to full effect. We get to know just enough about Grayson and Fenton to keep them from being one-dimensional in the long novella word count, and to make them sympathetic (in this case, especially Grayson). And yes, the “I love yous” come fairly quickly, but that’s the romantic element of romance—these two men are made for each other because it’s Gray who helps Edward embrace his desires and find freedom in his need to be commanded; and it’s Edward who helps Gray fulfill his desire to be wanted by someone he loves.
It’s a tried and true recipe that Ava March serves up in her body of work, and it’s one I greedily devour every time.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
In Convincing the Secretary, book three in the London Legal series, Lord Grayson Holloway and his secretary, Edward Fenton, are engaged in a game of seduction and evasion, miscues and miscommunications. Fenton has been handed off to Grayson by his partner in the firm, Arthur Barrington, and to all appearances it would seem that Fenton is rather pining for his former boss, which doesn’t settle well with Grayson, of course, because there’s a part of him that wishes Fenton would look at him with the same sort of longing and devotion. It certainly isn’t Fenton’s competence as a secretary that’s keeping him employed, as is soon revealed, so with little hesitation or forethought, Grayson sets a course he hopes will lead to swaying Fenton’s attentions and affections in his direction.
Edward Fenton is the younger of the two men, inexperienced and more than a little ashamed of his desires. It’s not so much his attraction to men that causes his shame—he’s seen firsthand in Arthur Barrington and Leopold Thornton’s relationship that it’s possible for two men to find love and happiness together—but that Edward’s desires lean toward the need to be dominated, maybe even toward a little gentle humiliation, a proclivity he’s sure means there’s something perverse about him. The issue for poor Fenton is that Grayson oozes the sort of authoritative air Fenton craves, the man is temptation personified, and Edward can’t keep from becoming aroused when he’s in Grayson’s presence—something Lord Grayson begins to take notice of and decides to capitalize on.
The cat and mouse game gets underway, which is when all the miscues and miscommunications I mentioned begin to complicate matters a bit—this being one of the elements of the expected in March’s escapist romance. There’s always one last hurdle to overcome, whether it be a misunderstanding or the wrong words spoken, before her men can begin their life together.
The Regency Era and its well-heeled propriety always works well as a contrast to what March has her characters getting up to in private. This author writes gentlemen who throw off all their staid and genteel inhibitions once the doors are closed and locked, and showcases their sexual hungers to full effect. We get to know just enough about Grayson and Fenton to keep them from being one-dimensional in the long novella word count, and to make them sympathetic (in this case, especially Grayson). And yes, the “I love yous” come fairly quickly, but that’s the romantic element of romance—these two men are made for each other because it’s Gray who helps Edward embrace his desires and find freedom in his need to be commanded; and it’s Edward who helps Gray fulfill his desire to be wanted by someone he loves.
It’s a tried and true recipe that Ava March serves up in her body of work, and it’s one I greedily devour every time.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
January 4, 2016
Lord Grayson is a lawyer who runs his law office with his friend Arthur Barrington. He has a male secretary named Edward that he has had a crush on since he started. The only problem is that he's pretty sure Edward is infatuated with his friend. He always catches him staring longingly at him. He's also pretty sure Edward is terrified of him. Grayson decides to have Edward work closer with him on a project to get him to relax around him and get to know him better.
I really ended up enjoying this one. I loved that it was alternating third person because I feel like you understand what the characters are feeling better. I loved that Edward started off pretty shy and couldn't even meet Grayson's eyes but later grows more of a backbone and stands his ground. Grayson is intimidating but deep down is a big sweetheart. I did have a little problem with
** I was provided with an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
I really ended up enjoying this one. I loved that it was alternating third person because I feel like you understand what the characters are feeling better. I loved that Edward started off pretty shy and couldn't even meet Grayson's eyes but later grows more of a backbone and stands his ground. Grayson is intimidating but deep down is a big sweetheart. I did have a little problem with
** I was provided with an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
February 19, 2016
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4 Lusty Stars.
Convincing the Secretary is the 3rd in the London Legal MM historical Romance series. However, it's the first I have read in this series. Since I was offered this for review, I jumped on it, and was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't lost. Perhaps things said or done would have had more meaning if I had read the prior books, but it was enjoyable for me nonetheless.
In essence, Convincing the Secretary was meant to be a lusty novella filled with heat and power-exchange, being driven by an underlying legal case. The solicitor and his reluctant, then eager secretary. Ava March delivered on all accounts.
Recommended for fans of historical MM romance with a BDSM kick. Being that this a novella, keep in mind that everything is truncated- instantaneous. Lust, the storyline, and the emotions, in order to fit into a shorter amount of pages. If you're looking for a few hours of mindless entertainment, where you don't want to read an involved book, Convincing the Secretary is guaranteed instant gratification for the reader.
4 Lusty Stars.
Convincing the Secretary is the 3rd in the London Legal MM historical Romance series. However, it's the first I have read in this series. Since I was offered this for review, I jumped on it, and was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't lost. Perhaps things said or done would have had more meaning if I had read the prior books, but it was enjoyable for me nonetheless.
In essence, Convincing the Secretary was meant to be a lusty novella filled with heat and power-exchange, being driven by an underlying legal case. The solicitor and his reluctant, then eager secretary. Ava March delivered on all accounts.
Recommended for fans of historical MM romance with a BDSM kick. Being that this a novella, keep in mind that everything is truncated- instantaneous. Lust, the storyline, and the emotions, in order to fit into a shorter amount of pages. If you're looking for a few hours of mindless entertainment, where you don't want to read an involved book, Convincing the Secretary is guaranteed instant gratification for the reader.
October 27, 2020
Part of a series that has to be read in order:
September 17, 2016
this was a nice short story and in this case I did not mind too much that it was only a novella
April 21, 2019
I stumbled across this book while checking out another one and I am glad I did. Grey is a lawyer who is alone. His family is really not his own and they treat him as such. He is the illegitimate child of a Marquess. Being bullied and taunted most of his life, he has learned to hide his feelings. Edward is his secretary. He also has been a forgotten child of his family. The youngest son, he is expected to do exactly as his father wants and otherwise is ignored. The two men share being gay and being into BDSM. Edward loves humiliation and Grey loves to be the dominant. The problem with these two men is they lack communication skills, thus they run into problems while trying to develop a lasting relationship. An excellent story and would recommend it to read.
December 3, 2019
This was my least favourite of the series.
Edward didn't have much of an appearance in book 2, and Gray none at all, so there was no interest built in that book regarding them. I found that I was impartial to Edward and I can't say I really liked Gray.
The BDSM was very light, which I was good with, as it's not really something I care to read.
Gray was under the impression he did this great job wooing Edward when all he did was a) be a grouch to him forever b) spank him c) invite him to discuss work over a meal d) ask him to act as a guide at an art exhibition and e) invite him over for a late night booty call.
And as it was with the first two books, POV sometimes switched mid-scene in a way that wasn't always obvious, which was sometimes confusing.
Edward didn't have much of an appearance in book 2, and Gray none at all, so there was no interest built in that book regarding them. I found that I was impartial to Edward and I can't say I really liked Gray.
The BDSM was very light, which I was good with, as it's not really something I care to read.
Gray was under the impression he did this great job wooing Edward when all he did was a) be a grouch to him forever b) spank him c) invite him to discuss work over a meal d) ask him to act as a guide at an art exhibition and e) invite him over for a late night booty call.
And as it was with the first two books, POV sometimes switched mid-scene in a way that wasn't always obvious, which was sometimes confusing.
Read
September 6, 2022Pull quotes/notes
"'Would you care for something to drink? I have...' Gray glanced around the room, to the squat porcelain pot on the console table behind his desk. Not an ideal option, but the choices were limited given he didn't keep spirits at the office nor did he have a stove at his disposal. '...lukewarm coffee.'" (44//152) so smooth
"Apparently God did not strike down sodomites with lightning bolts from the heavens for daring to enter his house. Not even sods who reveled in wicked erotic acts." (96-97/152) well, this is the first time I realized that "sod" is short for "sodomite"
March 28, 2020
Meh
It’s ok. The story was kind of rushed. I prefer longer books where the ending doesn’t seem so thrown together at the last moment. It just feels sort of contrived when they’re written like this. I thought it would be more steamy but it’s not. The first part is but then it’s just a rush to finish and have sex in the epilogue. It could have been better if they’d taken the time to write the whole story instead of just rushing to the end.
It’s ok. The story was kind of rushed. I prefer longer books where the ending doesn’t seem so thrown together at the last moment. It just feels sort of contrived when they’re written like this. I thought it would be more steamy but it’s not. The first part is but then it’s just a rush to finish and have sex in the epilogue. It could have been better if they’d taken the time to write the whole story instead of just rushing to the end.
June 1, 2020
I was expecting something darker because that is how I picture Ava March's books. But this wasn't at all. It is about 2 lonely guys, one experienced and a bit hard, and a virgin, both with low self-esteem. I am glad Edward wasn't a blushing maiden (Grayson is not even aware he was taking his virginity the first night). It may be because of the length of the book, but the bdsm is short and pretty vanilla (a bit of spanking, a bit of scolding/humiliation, a bit of use of toys).
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