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Mechanical Universe #1
A Matter of Disagreement
Two sworn rivals, a clash of ideas, and an attraction neither can deny.
A noted scholar of ancient literature and spellcraft, Lord Ashcroft "Andrea" de Bourbon, finds his world shaken when the new science of mechanical animation becomes the talk of high society. In response, Andrea takes to the presses gaining notoriety for his scathing critiques of mechanical animation and its founder the Marquis de la Marche.
Then one night Andrea comes face to face with the Marquis de la Marche and discovers he is nothing like Andrea expected. Leon Gregory de la Marche VI, Marquis de la Marche is handsome, brilliant, and charming. While their clashes on paper have become legendary in person they are even more explosive. As passions rise Andrea knows there is no backing down ...
A noted scholar of ancient literature and spellcraft, Lord Ashcroft "Andrea" de Bourbon, finds his world shaken when the new science of mechanical animation becomes the talk of high society. In response, Andrea takes to the presses gaining notoriety for his scathing critiques of mechanical animation and its founder the Marquis de la Marche.
Then one night Andrea comes face to face with the Marquis de la Marche and discovers he is nothing like Andrea expected. Leon Gregory de la Marche VI, Marquis de la Marche is handsome, brilliant, and charming. While their clashes on paper have become legendary in person they are even more explosive. As passions rise Andrea knows there is no backing down ...
72 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2014
17 people are currently reading
1685 people want to read
About the author
E.E. Ottoman
29 books346 followerswrites romance novels, wears pretty clothes, does history stuff.
he/him/his
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
February 10, 2017
Andrea may come from a (somewhat) noble family, but being cut off from the family money means he is in a bit of a bind. He has devoted his life to researching and discovering the use of spellwork in ancient times, and it is, to say the least, not a very lucrative career. He can barely afford to live on, and pay his three research assistants, on what he has. And with the rise of the newer, and flashier, discoveries in mechanical animation, finding funding is very much like shooting fish in the middle of a desert. Pointless and very likely to suck you dry.
Coerced into attending yet another society function by his older brother, Andrea is less than pleased to find the host is one the stars of the academic vein that is practically strangling his own. He is even less pleased to find the man, Leon Gregory de la Marche, is exceedingly handsome and not at all bad company when he is not being a stuck-up ass. But with all their differences, both in fortune, name, and personality, there really isn’t much hope for anything between them. Which is sad, because when they are not actively hating each other’s guts, they make a fine pair.
I am quite surprised by how much I liked this book. It is not all that often that I get such lovely twists in a short story, but this one sure did it. I’ve had this story for about a month, but because of the time constraints I’ve had a hard time fitting it into my schedule. I may have also been a bit wary about reading it since I have never read anything by E.E. Ottoman before. I’m kinda kicking myself now, because this short story was really good.
I’ve always had a bit of a thing for Regency England, and when I discovered Steampunk (and its many variations) I was in heaven. This story, with its mechanical message birds and society ball was a great fit with me. Also loved having the wonderful trappings of 19th Century England without those pesky little sodomy laws. It means I can have my cake and eat it without having to worry that my guys are going to end up in jail or fleeing the country.
And there is one hell of a twist in this book–-though I will ruin it if I give you too much–-but it was really unexpected and something I just love.
Also really enjoyed the antagonism between Gregory and Andrea. I do like when enemies find themselves falling for each other. And when they finally get round to pulling each other’s clothes off (instead of pulling each other’s hair) it was very hot.
I wish there had been more of it. And more of the story in general. It was something not all that common, in my experience, and having something unique in always a huge plus.
I am glad that I have got several of Ottoman’s short stories over the last few days, because if they are as good as this story was, I’m going to have another author to stalk. This story may be short, but it was great, and I highly recommend it.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Coerced into attending yet another society function by his older brother, Andrea is less than pleased to find the host is one the stars of the academic vein that is practically strangling his own. He is even less pleased to find the man, Leon Gregory de la Marche, is exceedingly handsome and not at all bad company when he is not being a stuck-up ass. But with all their differences, both in fortune, name, and personality, there really isn’t much hope for anything between them. Which is sad, because when they are not actively hating each other’s guts, they make a fine pair.
I am quite surprised by how much I liked this book. It is not all that often that I get such lovely twists in a short story, but this one sure did it. I’ve had this story for about a month, but because of the time constraints I’ve had a hard time fitting it into my schedule. I may have also been a bit wary about reading it since I have never read anything by E.E. Ottoman before. I’m kinda kicking myself now, because this short story was really good.
I’ve always had a bit of a thing for Regency England, and when I discovered Steampunk (and its many variations) I was in heaven. This story, with its mechanical message birds and society ball was a great fit with me. Also loved having the wonderful trappings of 19th Century England without those pesky little sodomy laws. It means I can have my cake and eat it without having to worry that my guys are going to end up in jail or fleeing the country.
And there is one hell of a twist in this book–-though I will ruin it if I give you too much–-but it was really unexpected and something I just love.
Also really enjoyed the antagonism between Gregory and Andrea. I do like when enemies find themselves falling for each other. And when they finally get round to pulling each other’s clothes off (instead of pulling each other’s hair) it was very hot.
Andrea was sure he was blushing straight up to the tips of his ears. “No need to be crude about it.”
“We are both naked, you are going to stick a glass cock up my ass and I’m going to suck you off—the time for modesty has passed.”
I wish there had been more of it. And more of the story in general. It was something not all that common, in my experience, and having something unique in always a huge plus.
I am glad that I have got several of Ottoman’s short stories over the last few days, because if they are as good as this story was, I’m going to have another author to stalk. This story may be short, but it was great, and I highly recommend it.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 12, 2016
“God you are stubborn”. Gregory looked like he was relishing every minute of it, which made Andrea look away, cheeks heating.
This quote about sums up a lot of what I think about ‘A Matter of Disagreement’.
I can easily say that I was relishing every minute of this beautiful adversaries to lovers story, set in a steampunk historical and magical setting.
Our protagonists Andrea and Gregory, though especially Andrea, from which POV this story is told, are immensely stubborn. They are drawn to each other from the very first moment, but can barely stand to talk to each other. Every inch towards each other is a fight, an argument, a compromise, without it being annoying, though. Two strong willed men finding a way to be together, it was just lovely.
After a long time of unfulfilled sexual heating, they go up in flames. Oh my…
I wish I needn’t comment on this, that it wasn’t even worth mentioning, but ‘A Matter of Disagreement’ is an unusual story, one that dissolves gender and gender roles, one that is set in a society of class and prestige, but doesn’t frown upon same-sex marriage.
Starting with the choice of the name Andrea for a man, over a woman breaking out of gender projected expectations, to a man who was born a girl.
I found this rare combination very special and enlightening. It was not as if there were no roles or rules, they were just different to ours.
If I had one complaint, and I’m not even sure this is one, I wish there had been a bit more world building. I would have loved to see more of the mechanical animation, of the spell craft in action.
Some quotes that I really liked:
The Marquis had invited him to breakfast, invited him to see his telescope, and invited him to the opera. Oh God, he was being courted the the Marquis de la Marche, he was letting himself be courted, because he'd come too. Andrea wondered if he might pass out from lightheadedness at the realization.
"God, I have never met anyone like you, Lord Ashcroft. You are astonishing, if a bit trying on the nerves."
Andrea felt his lips turn up in a small smile at that. "I believe the feeling is mutual," he said. "And call me Andrea."
Highly recommended! 4.5 stars. Go read this wonderful love story!
***
Queer Romance Month post by E.E. Ottoman about Why We Need Trans Romance. Very personal and sad, and Kyle-ish in the end.
Got this from Joolz for his 'closets' QRM giveaway. YAYAYAYAYAYAY
This quote about sums up a lot of what I think about ‘A Matter of Disagreement’.
I can easily say that I was relishing every minute of this beautiful adversaries to lovers story, set in a steampunk historical and magical setting.
Our protagonists Andrea and Gregory, though especially Andrea, from which POV this story is told, are immensely stubborn. They are drawn to each other from the very first moment, but can barely stand to talk to each other. Every inch towards each other is a fight, an argument, a compromise, without it being annoying, though. Two strong willed men finding a way to be together, it was just lovely.
After a long time of unfulfilled sexual heating, they go up in flames. Oh my…
I wish I needn’t comment on this, that it wasn’t even worth mentioning, but ‘A Matter of Disagreement’ is an unusual story, one that dissolves gender and gender roles, one that is set in a society of class and prestige, but doesn’t frown upon same-sex marriage.
Starting with the choice of the name Andrea for a man, over a woman breaking out of gender projected expectations, to a man who was born a girl.
I found this rare combination very special and enlightening. It was not as if there were no roles or rules, they were just different to ours.
If I had one complaint, and I’m not even sure this is one, I wish there had been a bit more world building. I would have loved to see more of the mechanical animation, of the spell craft in action.
Some quotes that I really liked:
The Marquis had invited him to breakfast, invited him to see his telescope, and invited him to the opera. Oh God, he was being courted the the Marquis de la Marche, he was letting himself be courted, because he'd come too. Andrea wondered if he might pass out from lightheadedness at the realization.
"God, I have never met anyone like you, Lord Ashcroft. You are astonishing, if a bit trying on the nerves."
Andrea felt his lips turn up in a small smile at that. "I believe the feeling is mutual," he said. "And call me Andrea."
Highly recommended! 4.5 stars. Go read this wonderful love story!
***
Queer Romance Month post by E.E. Ottoman about Why We Need Trans Romance. Very personal and sad, and Kyle-ish in the end.
Got this from Joolz for his 'closets' QRM giveaway. YAYAYAYAYAYAY
February 22, 2014
This is my second book by E.E. Ottoman and both were so good that it has pretty much clinched the deal on me buying whatever comes next from this author. Ottoman takes world building to whole new levels in the books zie writes, and I find it wonderful. Though it took me some time to figure out just what the characters were talking about in this one, it had a decidedly steampunk feel to it.
What I love most about the author is how zie makes transgender characters so believable. In both books I had no idea the characters had been born another gender until they revealed it, and that's the way it should be. Ottoman writes in a manner that makes the characters real and not sensationalist. There's nothing about the stories or characters that make the book for reading about someone different just for curiosities sake. No, you read because you care about the characters and their stories.
I loved the Gregory and Andrea. Andrea is not your typical protagonist in LGBT fiction. I've found that most characters tend to be very attractive and fit. Not so with Andrea. He describes himself as "portly" and "round" on occasion. But that doesn't stop Gregory for falling for him, because Gregory wants something real.
I love the relationship between them, too. It's so antagonistic but in a good way. They can never get together without fighting about science, and I found it hilarious.
Truly a great book. I look forward to the next book by Ottoman!
What I love most about the author is how zie makes transgender characters so believable. In both books I had no idea the characters had been born another gender until they revealed it, and that's the way it should be. Ottoman writes in a manner that makes the characters real and not sensationalist. There's nothing about the stories or characters that make the book for reading about someone different just for curiosities sake. No, you read because you care about the characters and their stories.
I loved the Gregory and Andrea. Andrea is not your typical protagonist in LGBT fiction. I've found that most characters tend to be very attractive and fit. Not so with Andrea. He describes himself as "portly" and "round" on occasion. But that doesn't stop Gregory for falling for him, because Gregory wants something real.
I love the relationship between them, too. It's so antagonistic but in a good way. They can never get together without fighting about science, and I found it hilarious.
Truly a great book. I look forward to the next book by Ottoman!
March 20, 2018
this was a cute, fun read. felt a bit short and the world building could have been better but overall enjoyable
March 24, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
Grumpy and bickering MCs! This did feel a little unpolished compared to Ottoman's newer books, but that kind of feels like it's expected since this was published over 10 years ago!
As always, appreciate the historical breadcrumbs EEO includes in his stories. This one was focused more on mechanical inventions and steampunk elements, which was neat.
I personally don't love relationships where the leads argue all the time, but they're nerdy intellectuals that want to hash it out and good for them.
There's a glass dick that was fun, as well using every euphemism for dick under the sun that was interesting lol
Grumpy and bickering MCs! This did feel a little unpolished compared to Ottoman's newer books, but that kind of feels like it's expected since this was published over 10 years ago!
As always, appreciate the historical breadcrumbs EEO includes in his stories. This one was focused more on mechanical inventions and steampunk elements, which was neat.
I personally don't love relationships where the leads argue all the time, but they're nerdy intellectuals that want to hash it out and good for them.
There's a glass dick that was fun, as well using every euphemism for dick under the sun that was interesting lol
Read
July 20, 2022The academic conflict and worldbuilding was interesting, but I didn't vibe with the relationship since enemies to lovers with constant fighting even after they get together isn't really a relationship dynamic that I enjoy reading
May 2, 2019
Author E.E. Ottoman identifies as a disabled, queer, trans man, (he/him/his) and his stories featuring trans* characters are imbued with insight, sensitivity and understanding. Ottoman writes representation with a deftness and skill that is clearly modeled and instilled into the characters’ identities, but does not overshadow or overtake who these characters are. This is, at heart, a love story between two scientific colleagues. Andrea esteems and accepts Gregory as an academic equal and as an admired love interest. Gregory is more than the sum of his parts in Andrea’s eyes.
Since this is a Steampunk fantasy romance, the author is able to make a few adjustments as to how society views gender identity, and there is an aspect of inheritance law which is particularly affirming. In this world, law requires people to be legally and socially recognized as the gender in which they are currently living.
There is also discussion of using spell craft, medicine, and pharmaceutical treatments “to make individuals who have certain aspects of their body which do not fit with their gender more compatible.” This provides for an interesting correlation to today’s modern gender transition process. Gregory is a designated female at birth trans man (DFAB), and he discusses past experiences of transphobia that were aimed at him as a child by his father, and his experiences of gender dysphoria when he was made to present as a female.
Ottoman is a master at writing characters that defy gender stereotypes. Unlike some romances stories which overemphasize athletic, young, muscular “manly” bodies, Ottoman writes about characters of all body types. Andrea self-describes as “husky,” and explains that “I am small, and my body is not exactly made for more physical or gentlemanly endeavors.” This inclusion of differing body types helps to break the long standing Romancelandia assertion that the most attractive way to be male is to be tall, muscular, young, and athletic. It is a refreshing change.
This is a beautiful story, and a sweet and sensual romance. The entire "Mechanical Universe" set of stories are some of my favorites. Highly recommend!!
[m/m; historical fantasy; disabled, queer, trans man author; Rep: gay male fat MC, trans man MC]
Since this is a Steampunk fantasy romance, the author is able to make a few adjustments as to how society views gender identity, and there is an aspect of inheritance law which is particularly affirming. In this world, law requires people to be legally and socially recognized as the gender in which they are currently living.
There is also discussion of using spell craft, medicine, and pharmaceutical treatments “to make individuals who have certain aspects of their body which do not fit with their gender more compatible.” This provides for an interesting correlation to today’s modern gender transition process. Gregory is a designated female at birth trans man (DFAB), and he discusses past experiences of transphobia that were aimed at him as a child by his father, and his experiences of gender dysphoria when he was made to present as a female.
Ottoman is a master at writing characters that defy gender stereotypes. Unlike some romances stories which overemphasize athletic, young, muscular “manly” bodies, Ottoman writes about characters of all body types. Andrea self-describes as “husky,” and explains that “I am small, and my body is not exactly made for more physical or gentlemanly endeavors.” This inclusion of differing body types helps to break the long standing Romancelandia assertion that the most attractive way to be male is to be tall, muscular, young, and athletic. It is a refreshing change.
This is a beautiful story, and a sweet and sensual romance. The entire "Mechanical Universe" set of stories are some of my favorites. Highly recommend!!
[m/m; historical fantasy; disabled, queer, trans man author; Rep: gay male fat MC, trans man MC]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2015
Makes me think outside my tidy little world. A very nice surprise! Michael Stellman's narration makes this story even better. I love the description of the delicate little messenger bird, made to look realistic, made of silver and wood, yet internally intricate with movement gears. The 'battle' between spellcraft and mechanical animation is a fascinating subject, and the mix of Edwardian or Victorian with the magic and mechanical arts makes this a very interesting read.
As to the basis of the story, the polar opposites they seem to be in scientific belief systems makes me very much get the feeling of people that are opposites in politics, and their attempts to mediate and moderate give new hope that even people with strong differences can still open themselves up to others ideas and thoughts, thereby creating a great environment for positive debate vice confrontational conflict.
I'm very much looking forward to more in this series, and would be even happier if the author was able to get the rest of them released to audio. And the personal story that each shares with the other is dealt with so kindly and explained quite matter of factly, with it being comfortable minus 'self-deprecation', sensationalism or drama. In fact, it caught me by surprise how 'everyday normal' the discussion sounded and left me thinking.
I loved this story, and being introduced to this 'universe'.
As to the basis of the story, the polar opposites they seem to be in scientific belief systems makes me very much get the feeling of people that are opposites in politics, and their attempts to mediate and moderate give new hope that even people with strong differences can still open themselves up to others ideas and thoughts, thereby creating a great environment for positive debate vice confrontational conflict.
I'm very much looking forward to more in this series, and would be even happier if the author was able to get the rest of them released to audio. And the personal story that each shares with the other is dealt with so kindly and explained quite matter of factly, with it being comfortable minus 'self-deprecation', sensationalism or drama. In fact, it caught me by surprise how 'everyday normal' the discussion sounded and left me thinking.
I loved this story, and being introduced to this 'universe'.
February 19, 2021
Absolutely delightful! This is a charming enemies-to-lovers story about rival scientists in a gorgeous, steampunky AU historical world. It's a light, enjoyable little love story with really wonderful characters. I love how this author writes about gender, and I love that he writes about different sorts of queer folk. This novella is fairly short, but I found it to be just the right length for the story and Ottoman's writing style is pleasant and easy-to-read. This story left me smiling and I loved it. I have really enjoyed everything I've read by E. E. Ottoman and look forward to reading more.
April 10, 2020
Absolutely Superb!!
I bought this after Jen recommended it on Fated Mates, but i was a FOOL and only just now got to it🤦🏼♀️ this book felt so unique, the world was fascinating and immersive and the *perfect* quarantine distraction! And Gregory & Andrea have a really awesome dynamic- the “warring academics” vibe was so gripping and really delightful🙏🏻 definitely need to check out more by this author!
I bought this after Jen recommended it on Fated Mates, but i was a FOOL and only just now got to it🤦🏼♀️ this book felt so unique, the world was fascinating and immersive and the *perfect* quarantine distraction! And Gregory & Andrea have a really awesome dynamic- the “warring academics” vibe was so gripping and really delightful🙏🏻 definitely need to check out more by this author!
June 24, 2020
This was fine! The flirting was nice and there's a funny conversation about epithets during the sex scene that made me snort and I was so pleased, as always, to read a story about a trans character where they were allowed to just be trans and have a nice time!
April 1, 2023
Had this had slightly more world building (not just the setting, mind, but the actual premise was maybe too straightforward and I felt I needed more?) and slightly more relationship development, it could've been a 4, easy.
I liked the writing and the story overall. But, it's a novella.
I liked the writing and the story overall. But, it's a novella.
October 16, 2015
I am really really torn between 3 to 4 stars. I think I used to be easily pleased and then sometimes, not so much. I guess I'll go with 3.5 stars rounded up. Because I'm a softie. I am.
Tried really hard to be spoiler free here.
I enjoyed the beginning a lot and it was definitely 5 star material. The pacing was perfect and the love hate relationship between Andrea and Gregory was beyond delightful, along with the fact that his is such a fantastic steampunk!AU, that I can't even ... then... it just rushed to the ending and I was like WTF? There is no way it needed to end so fast as it did. It was almost as if the author got tired of the story and moved from showing to telling in a second.
I had no idea what I was expecting with Gregory's secret and I like the way Andrea handled it and how that played out in the bedroom. I loved that Andrea was like "we're going to fight." That he's going to leave cuz he knows Gregory will piss him off and I legit laughed at that. It was so real about being in a relationship with someone when you don't agree sometimes but still love and fight to be with each other.
I just really really wish it didn't end so fast. Andrea legit went from: I'm not going to sleep with you, to hey look, we're in bed together and we're doing this weird sex thing and I'm totally okay with it. [Which is fine b/c the weird sex thing is hot]
I feel like there was SO MUCH POTENTIAL in this amazing book and then it just -- failed.
Tried really hard to be spoiler free here.
I enjoyed the beginning a lot and it was definitely 5 star material. The pacing was perfect and the love hate relationship between Andrea and Gregory was beyond delightful, along with the fact that his is such a fantastic steampunk!AU, that I can't even ... then... it just rushed to the ending and I was like WTF? There is no way it needed to end so fast as it did. It was almost as if the author got tired of the story and moved from showing to telling in a second.
I had no idea what I was expecting with Gregory's secret and I like the way Andrea handled it and how that played out in the bedroom. I loved that Andrea was like "we're going to fight." That he's going to leave cuz he knows Gregory will piss him off and I legit laughed at that. It was so real about being in a relationship with someone when you don't agree sometimes but still love and fight to be with each other.
I just really really wish it didn't end so fast. Andrea legit went from: I'm not going to sleep with you, to hey look, we're in bed together and we're doing this weird sex thing and I'm totally okay with it. [Which is fine b/c the weird sex thing is hot]
I feel like there was SO MUCH POTENTIAL in this amazing book and then it just -- failed.
August 30, 2018
Steampunk short story
A romantic short story focused on the connection between the two MCs, two academic, magically and scientifically oriented gentlemen of their time. A pleasant story with a few grumpy missteps, told from Andrea's point of view. Placed loosely in an alternate European history with magic and mechanical inventiveness intertwining. Some of the familiar background of class and nobility, balls and dinner parties, typical of many historical romances.
In this alternate history, transgender identity is supported with protective laws and attitudes, as well as advanced science and enchantment. The story is a pretty straightforward love tale, with a limited nod to world building. One intimate mm scene.
Written nicely, but could have benefited greatly from a good proofreading before publication. Also a few vocabulary anachronisms that seemed misplaced in the context of this alt.history. I think this intelligent pair could have dealt with more...perhaps a mystery or some spying action...but alas. Maybe the author will follow with a more adventurous sequal, drawing from the epilogue.
A romantic short story focused on the connection between the two MCs, two academic, magically and scientifically oriented gentlemen of their time. A pleasant story with a few grumpy missteps, told from Andrea's point of view. Placed loosely in an alternate European history with magic and mechanical inventiveness intertwining. Some of the familiar background of class and nobility, balls and dinner parties, typical of many historical romances.
In this alternate history, transgender identity is supported with protective laws and attitudes, as well as advanced science and enchantment. The story is a pretty straightforward love tale, with a limited nod to world building. One intimate mm scene.
Written nicely, but could have benefited greatly from a good proofreading before publication. Also a few vocabulary anachronisms that seemed misplaced in the context of this alt.history. I think this intelligent pair could have dealt with more...perhaps a mystery or some spying action...but alas. Maybe the author will follow with a more adventurous sequal, drawing from the epilogue.
August 11, 2021
No jarring prose errors in this enemies-to-lovers story, unlike other books in this series (I'm looking at you, Winter's Bees), but the two men didn't slap my emotions upside the head as hard as other books in this series (I'm still looking at you, Winter's Bees). Still, a fascinating, colourful, story, placed in a unique steampunk world with intriguing and clear visuals, and filled with distinct, fun-to-read people.
I did struggle a bit with understanding exactly what the two were disagreeing about; you have to use real simple words and explanations for me, when to comes to scientific matters. But, in the end, the actual fodder of the disagreement didn't matter--it was about the characters. All about the characters.
The authors sure know how to create people--every character is a vibrant entity unto themselves, just like real life.
I did struggle a bit with understanding exactly what the two were disagreeing about; you have to use real simple words and explanations for me, when to comes to scientific matters. But, in the end, the actual fodder of the disagreement didn't matter--it was about the characters. All about the characters.
The authors sure know how to create people--every character is a vibrant entity unto themselves, just like real life.
April 8, 2017
We LOVED this story! 9/10
It’s pretty, it’s imaginative, it’s well-crafted, it’s engaging, and its characters—even the side ones—are people, not tropes or cardboard props. - Matt
E.E. Ottoman’s prose is GORGEOUS. I loved the writing so much, I made happy noises throughout the whole book! So beautiful. - Maria
You can find our full reviews here!
It’s pretty, it’s imaginative, it’s well-crafted, it’s engaging, and its characters—even the side ones—are people, not tropes or cardboard props. - Matt
E.E. Ottoman’s prose is GORGEOUS. I loved the writing so much, I made happy noises throughout the whole book! So beautiful. - Maria
You can find our full reviews here!
February 4, 2015
4.5
Another delightful book by E.E. Ottoman. The old theme enemies-to-lovers is well done and the characters' development believable. I would have preferred a bit more emphasis on the world building though. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series ''Mechanical Universe''.
Another delightful book by E.E. Ottoman. The old theme enemies-to-lovers is well done and the characters' development believable. I would have preferred a bit more emphasis on the world building though. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series ''Mechanical Universe''.
February 12, 2020
The one real flaw of this book is that it could have used another pass with a proofreader; there are a number of missing words or punctuation that distracted me as I read. But I absolutely rec it and hope people read it regardless. I love how it centers magic as an academic subject—not being about a magic school but about academia, departmental debates and which specific field of magical study is the future of academic learning (and thus who gets the funding and who doesn't). It's arguments in academic papers and letters sent to one another that get a public response in a journal rather than a private one by mail and it's all about whose field of study is new and exciting versus old hat and boring—and who might lose their jobs as a result. When you add in a compelling and erotic romance between two men (one cis, one trans) in an academic rivals-to-lovers scenario mixed in with the complex entanglement of social politics between two aristocratic families of different rank as well... well, I really liked it!
April 25, 2022
2.5 stars. I didn’t realize going in that this story was set in a steampunk world. I’ve never read steampunk before—something about it doesn’t appeal to me—and I didn’t click with it. I also wasn’t expecting the societal acceptance of gay relationships in a historical setting. It’s a fabulous thought but it threw me off. I suppose I was in the mood for a typical historical. Suffice to say, I didn’t vibe with the setting. Although the enemies-to-lovers angle was mostly well done, I didn’t feel the chemistry between Andrea and Gregory. Loved the narrator’s voice, even if he didn’t employ any accents as seems should’ve been the case. Very well written. But, all in all, just not my bag.
April 25, 2025
A Matter of Disagreement is a historical romantasy novella. It’s the love story of Lord Ashcroft de Bourbon, “Andrea” and the Marquis de la Marche, “Gregory,” noblemen and academic rivals (with a little insta-lust when they don’t yet know who the other is), who then become friends, collaborators, and lovers.
In less than 100 pages Ottoman covers Andrea and Gregory’s romance (obv), gender identity, scientific and medical advancement, classism, family strife, and reckoning with the past to prepare for the future.
In less than 100 pages Ottoman covers Andrea and Gregory’s romance (obv), gender identity, scientific and medical advancement, classism, family strife, and reckoning with the past to prepare for the future.
April 27, 2017
Andrea's hopeless stubbornness was enough to make me keep reading, even though the disagreement was resolved too easily, and with relatively little work on both sides, which undermined the importance of its obstacle. And so even in spite of Andrea, it left me cold.
February 24, 2019
I enjoyed this book greatly when I first read it, then read it again when it was significantly revised and fell even more in love. The world, the characters, the story... all tremendously interesting and satisfying.
April 7, 2019
I really loved everything about this. Unfortunately, I had to dock a star because of the frequent typos/formatting errors on my kindle edition. It’s still readable and wonderful, but typos are a pet peeve of mine.
May 5, 2022
I wasn't really into the magical elements of this one. Some of it felt a bit like a DnD game, but the romance was top quality and highly enjoyable.
April 21, 2016
A very nice surprise! Michael Stellman’s narration makes this story even better. I love the description of the delicate little messenger bird, made to look realistic, created of silver and wood, yet internally intricate with movement gears. The ‘battle’ between spellcraft and mechanical animation is a fascinating subject, and the mix of Edwardian or Victorian era with the magic and mechanical arts makes this a very interesting read.
As to the basis of the story, the polar opposites they seem to be in scientific belief systems makes me very much get the feeling of people that are opposites in politics, and their attempts to mediate and moderate give new hope that even people with strong differences can still open themselves up to others ideas and thoughts, thereby creating a great environment for positive debate vice confrontational conflict.
I’m very much looking forward to more in this series, and would be even happier if the author was able to get the rest of them released to audio. And the personal story that each shares with the other is dealt with so kindly and explained quite matter of factly, with it being comfortable minus ‘self-deprecation’, sensationalism or drama. In fact, it caught me by surprise how ‘everyday normal’ the discussion sounded and left me thinking.
July 2, 2023
Idk what kind of wheel EE Ottoman was spinning to land on queer academic rivals to lovers in an alternate magical/steampunk historical past but I'm into it
Listen…I am always on board for an academic rivals to lovers situation. But then. BUT THEN. ON TOP OF THAT. To make them academic rivals in a steampunk universe where there’s magic involved in said academia?? Say LESS I’m already in love 😮💨
A Matter of Disagreement is truly just a delight of a novella. Somehow the relationship is perfectly balanced with the world-building, the tension is off the charts, both MCs are so charming and endearing…and also there’s magical mechanics. Like???
EE Ottoman slayed me in less than 100 pages and for that I must salute him 🫡
Pick this up for:
💫 academic rivals
💫 dashing, trans m inventor x snarky, plus size gentleman scholar
💫 sexual tensionnnn 👀
💫 research but make it hot
💫 fantasy steampunk universe
💫 hilariously terrible dirty talk
CW: Sexual content, sexual harassment, death of parent, body shaming
Listen…I am always on board for an academic rivals to lovers situation. But then. BUT THEN. ON TOP OF THAT. To make them academic rivals in a steampunk universe where there’s magic involved in said academia?? Say LESS I’m already in love 😮💨
A Matter of Disagreement is truly just a delight of a novella. Somehow the relationship is perfectly balanced with the world-building, the tension is off the charts, both MCs are so charming and endearing…and also there’s magical mechanics. Like???
EE Ottoman slayed me in less than 100 pages and for that I must salute him 🫡
Pick this up for:
💫 academic rivals
💫 dashing, trans m inventor x snarky, plus size gentleman scholar
💫 sexual tensionnnn 👀
💫 research but make it hot
💫 fantasy steampunk universe
💫 hilariously terrible dirty talk
CW: Sexual content, sexual harassment, death of parent, body shaming
April 8, 2014
**I was provided an eARC of this novella by Less Than Three Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
**This novella is MATURE**
This novella is set in a world of high society where technology and magic are closely related. The world is a lot bigger than this novella and it isn't explored very much. I thought the story was quite short. I think the story and the world building could have been expanded into a novel. I wanted to know more about the magic aspect of the world.
I didn't really connect with the romance in this novella. I did enjoy that queer characters were accepted in this world though. This is definitely an adult novella, but you wouldn't know until the ending. The last about 10% is pretty much erotica. I was a little surprised by it.
I give this novella a 3/5. I enjoyed the novella, but I wanted more. The story had more potential and I never really got to understand the world.
**This novella is MATURE**
This novella is set in a world of high society where technology and magic are closely related. The world is a lot bigger than this novella and it isn't explored very much. I thought the story was quite short. I think the story and the world building could have been expanded into a novel. I wanted to know more about the magic aspect of the world.
I didn't really connect with the romance in this novella. I did enjoy that queer characters were accepted in this world though. This is definitely an adult novella, but you wouldn't know until the ending. The last about 10% is pretty much erotica. I was a little surprised by it.
I give this novella a 3/5. I enjoyed the novella, but I wanted more. The story had more potential and I never really got to understand the world.
December 7, 2021
Oh god. This just isn’t it. The bedroom talk is diabolically awful and because of it I skimmed the whole sex scene and all but the last 2.5 pages at the end. Up until that point the book was mostly average but fine, an easy 3, maybe 3.5. Then it had to get Awkward™️. I have faith that this author has improved since this was written but I probably won’t worry too much about reading his back catalogue if they’re all like this 😬
Also the copyediting of this was wonky. The tense had very obviously been altered in a lot of places but not all the words had been changed to reflect it, there were times when a homonym was used instead of what was actually meant, honestly it was a mess. Give this one a miss.
CW: internalised fatphobia, trans love interest considered to be ill and delusional by his father for trying to live as the correct gender, awful sex dialogue, financial insecurity, main (cis) character disowned by parents
Also the copyediting of this was wonky. The tense had very obviously been altered in a lot of places but not all the words had been changed to reflect it, there were times when a homonym was used instead of what was actually meant, honestly it was a mess. Give this one a miss.
CW: internalised fatphobia, trans love interest considered to be ill and delusional by his father for trying to live as the correct gender, awful sex dialogue, financial insecurity, main (cis) character disowned by parents
August 1, 2024
This is a light and amusing romance novella, featuring delightful queer characters but set in a world that could have used more building. There's only just enough explanation of the main characters' differing opinions on magic and machinery to account for their initial antagonism, but only just. One doesn't really know what's going on, although it can be argued that one doesn't have to if romance one's only concern.
The rules of this world are also unclear to me. It's, like, 18th/19th century nobility and scholarly classes, but with magic and steampunk elements, and with hybrid 19th/21st century language and social mores. It's all interesting, but not solid enough to raise the stakes of the romantic relationship.
I'd encourage readers of queer romance to try this out for the fun of it, but not those looking for anything more.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
The rules of this world are also unclear to me. It's, like, 18th/19th century nobility and scholarly classes, but with magic and steampunk elements, and with hybrid 19th/21st century language and social mores. It's all interesting, but not solid enough to raise the stakes of the romantic relationship.
I'd encourage readers of queer romance to try this out for the fun of it, but not those looking for anything more.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
March 27, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
When I first started reading this book, I didn’t expect to like it nearly as much as I did. After reading the blurb and then seeing the length I was sure there was absolutely no way to get everything the blurb promised onto so few pages and for it to be enjoyable. I have never been so glad to be wrong. Far from being a disappointment, this book was delightful! It was a perfect little novella that had me grinning stupidly throughout and left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling at the end
Read Angi's review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
When I first started reading this book, I didn’t expect to like it nearly as much as I did. After reading the blurb and then seeing the length I was sure there was absolutely no way to get everything the blurb promised onto so few pages and for it to be enjoyable. I have never been so glad to be wrong. Far from being a disappointment, this book was delightful! It was a perfect little novella that had me grinning stupidly throughout and left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling at the end
Read Angi's review in its entirety here.
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