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The Brotherhood #2
Just a Little Temptation
As the owner of an orphanage in a poor neighborhood of London, Stephen Siddel has the weight of the world, not to mention the care of tender souls, on his shoulders. He is a devoted father to dozens of children and an upstanding member of the community, in spite of his rivalry with the local nuns. But his heart and his reputation are overwhelmed by temptation the moment Max walks through the orphanage’s doors.
As a younger son from a grand family, no one expects much from Lord Maxwell Hillsboro, but he is determined to make a difference in the world, starting by patronizing a certain orphanage members of The Brotherhood have told him is in need of help. His heart is instantly engaged in the causes and concerns of the orphans, or rather it’s dashing and seductive owner, Stephen. Max feels he’s found his calling, even though his involvement could put both him and Stephen in danger.
But when some of the children from Stephen’s orphanage and the rival Catholic orphanage go missing, Stephen and Max must band together with the imperious Sister Constance to find them. What they discover is a much bigger kidnapping ring that requires them to join forces with David Wirth and Lionel Mercer of the law offices of Dandie & Worth. Can they rescue the children in time, or is something much more sinister going on? And will the passion growing between Stephen and Max ruin them all?
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Steam level – very spicy! And yes, this is an m/m romance (gay romance), so if that’s not your thing, feel free to pass on this one.
As a younger son from a grand family, no one expects much from Lord Maxwell Hillsboro, but he is determined to make a difference in the world, starting by patronizing a certain orphanage members of The Brotherhood have told him is in need of help. His heart is instantly engaged in the causes and concerns of the orphans, or rather it’s dashing and seductive owner, Stephen. Max feels he’s found his calling, even though his involvement could put both him and Stephen in danger.
But when some of the children from Stephen’s orphanage and the rival Catholic orphanage go missing, Stephen and Max must band together with the imperious Sister Constance to find them. What they discover is a much bigger kidnapping ring that requires them to join forces with David Wirth and Lionel Mercer of the law offices of Dandie & Worth. Can they rescue the children in time, or is something much more sinister going on? And will the passion growing between Stephen and Max ruin them all?
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Steam level – very spicy! And yes, this is an m/m romance (gay romance), so if that’s not your thing, feel free to pass on this one.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2020
229 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
292 books1,138 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
July 6, 2021
The story started out fine. The MCs were a little too naive and overly sweet but I kind of let it go. The story ARC from the previous book about kidnapping ring continued, so I thought nothing of somewhat sugary side love story. But when at 43% mark after knowing each other for about one week and after first intimate encounter both men swore undying love to each other, things started going downhill for me. It started going so fast sometimes veering on the side of ridiculous, plus the way Stephen kept stringing Anna, his helper at the orphanage, along was just not right. Max Lord Hillsboro was an absolute pushover and, I am sorry, the way his family behaved so outrageously was so not de rigueur even in 1890s. Nobility was ever so polite, this was one step away from circus and clowns here but not in a funny way but in a creepy rude kind of way. The villain was so in your face and ham-handed, I just couldn't take them seriously. Plus what really took the cake was the verbiage used especially during intimate scenes - too modern and repetitive. The book didn't sound close to being historical. I mean, I liked the first novel fine but there was at least attempt at using old-fashioned words and here it was not the case. At least I found out what happened with Joe's sister Lily, so there is that. I understand that the author wanted to create this bubble environment for like minded men to feel safe, but everything was so in the open without caution that it didn't feel even remotely authentic and according to time period. I honestly do not know if I am going to continue with the series. I just don't know.
June 9, 2022
'Just a Little Temptation' was just as enjoyable a read as the first book! I loved the mash-up of romance and suspense. Like in 'Just a Little Wickedness', in addition to the light happy moments and the sultry sex scenes, there are some dark elements here as well.
Max and Stephen were another endearing couple, and the other characters - including a few from the first book - fleshed the story out. Everyone had to watch out for lil' Jane and her penchant for scissors, though. lol
Looking forward to book 3!
Max and Stephen were another endearing couple, and the other characters - including a few from the first book - fleshed the story out. Everyone had to watch out for lil' Jane and her penchant for scissors, though. lol
Looking forward to book 3!
April 29, 2020
Stephen Siddel has a lot on his plate as the director of an orphanage for girls in one of London's poorest neighborhoods. He's well-respected in the community and beloved as a father by his girls. But when potential donor Max walks through his doors, Stephen finds himself facing enormous temptation.
As the fourth son of an illustrious duke, Lord Maxwell Hillsboro is often overlooked, but he's determined to do some good in the world and distance himself from the high society he despises. Patronizing an orphanage recommended to him by The Brotherhood seems a good place to start. When he meets Stephen and the girls, Max knows he's found where he belongs, even though his devotion to the orphanage puts both himself and Stephen in danger.
When a girl from Stephen's orphanage and two boys from a neighboring orphanage run by nuns go missing from a concert they were giving in a private home, Stephen, Max, and the haughty Sister Constance must work together to save them. They soon discover that the disappearances are part of a much larger kidnapping ring and staying focused on the investigation proves a challenge, especially when it could destroy both Max and Stephen as well as their friends from the Brotherhood.
This is the sort of book I only really read for Merry, but I couldn't put it down. It was both sweet and poignant, along with featuring nasty villains and action to keep me engrossed. I can't wait for the ring to be found out and the kidnappers brought to justice.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As the fourth son of an illustrious duke, Lord Maxwell Hillsboro is often overlooked, but he's determined to do some good in the world and distance himself from the high society he despises. Patronizing an orphanage recommended to him by The Brotherhood seems a good place to start. When he meets Stephen and the girls, Max knows he's found where he belongs, even though his devotion to the orphanage puts both himself and Stephen in danger.
When a girl from Stephen's orphanage and two boys from a neighboring orphanage run by nuns go missing from a concert they were giving in a private home, Stephen, Max, and the haughty Sister Constance must work together to save them. They soon discover that the disappearances are part of a much larger kidnapping ring and staying focused on the investigation proves a challenge, especially when it could destroy both Max and Stephen as well as their friends from the Brotherhood.
This is the sort of book I only really read for Merry, but I couldn't put it down. It was both sweet and poignant, along with featuring nasty villains and action to keep me engrossed. I can't wait for the ring to be found out and the kidnappers brought to justice.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 6, 2021
Quit at 70%. Won't be reading the rest of the series.
April 29, 2020
As the owner of an orphanage for girls in a poor neighbourhood of London, Stephen Siddel has the weight of the world, not to mention the care of tender souls, on his shoulders. But his heart and his reputation are overwhelmed by temptation the moment Max walks through the orphanage’s doors.
As a younger son of a duke, no one expects much from Lord Maxwell Hillsboro, but he is determined to make a difference in the world, starting by patronizing a certain orphanage members of The Brotherhood have told him is in need of help. His heart is instantly engaged in the causes and concerns of the orphans, or rather it’s dashing and seductive owner, Stephen. Max feels he’s found his calling, even though his involvement could put both him and Stephen in danger.
But when some of the children from Stephen’s orphanage and the rival Catholic orphanage go missing, Stephen and Max must band together with the imperious Sister Constance to find them. What they discover is a much bigger kidnapping ring that requires them to join forces with David Wirth and Lionel Mercer of the law offices of Dandie & Worth.
This is the second book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own I’d recommend reading in order to fully appreciate it as there is the ongoing storyline of kidnapped children plus both books are SO good & I can't wait for the rest of the series. I know I'm thoroughly involved in a book when I shout at my kindle & I did this several times whilst reading this captivating, engrossing read. I loved both Stephen & Max who were so right for each other & their attraction sizzled but they also liked each other & fell in love, theirs was a lovely romance added to first rate mystery & I was well & truly hooked. I also loved the secondary characters especially Lionel & David. A well written book that I devoured in two sittings, thank goodness I didn’t start it in the evening or I wouldn't have slept - it was unputdownable.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
As a younger son of a duke, no one expects much from Lord Maxwell Hillsboro, but he is determined to make a difference in the world, starting by patronizing a certain orphanage members of The Brotherhood have told him is in need of help. His heart is instantly engaged in the causes and concerns of the orphans, or rather it’s dashing and seductive owner, Stephen. Max feels he’s found his calling, even though his involvement could put both him and Stephen in danger.
But when some of the children from Stephen’s orphanage and the rival Catholic orphanage go missing, Stephen and Max must band together with the imperious Sister Constance to find them. What they discover is a much bigger kidnapping ring that requires them to join forces with David Wirth and Lionel Mercer of the law offices of Dandie & Worth.
This is the second book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own I’d recommend reading in order to fully appreciate it as there is the ongoing storyline of kidnapped children plus both books are SO good & I can't wait for the rest of the series. I know I'm thoroughly involved in a book when I shout at my kindle & I did this several times whilst reading this captivating, engrossing read. I loved both Stephen & Max who were so right for each other & their attraction sizzled but they also liked each other & fell in love, theirs was a lovely romance added to first rate mystery & I was well & truly hooked. I also loved the secondary characters especially Lionel & David. A well written book that I devoured in two sittings, thank goodness I didn’t start it in the evening or I wouldn't have slept - it was unputdownable.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
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December 2, 2022
DNF @ 35%
While it's been over a year since I read book 1 (Just a Little Wickedness), everything I remember enjoying fell flat with this entry. I've got a wider swath of romantic reads under my belt now to compare it to now and this one is just...not good (I suspect as well that if I were to reread book 1, I'd have similar thoughts).
The writing is bland, the instalove dry, the dialogue cringy, and the overall historical setting/kidnapping plot has zero consistency. I've picked up other entries in the series as they pop up for free, but I don't think I'll be revisiting.
While it's been over a year since I read book 1 (Just a Little Wickedness), everything I remember enjoying fell flat with this entry. I've got a wider swath of romantic reads under my belt now to compare it to now and this one is just...not good (I suspect as well that if I were to reread book 1, I'd have similar thoughts).
The writing is bland, the instalove dry, the dialogue cringy, and the overall historical setting/kidnapping plot has zero consistency. I've picked up other entries in the series as they pop up for free, but I don't think I'll be revisiting.
May 3, 2020
Love in its Many Forms!
Stephen Siddel orphanage owner & newly patron to the orphanage Lord ”Max” Hillsboro meet, love, and investigate missing children. I enjoyed the good storytelling, the interesting enough MCs even though the story is a bit on the fairytale side. OTOH, I wish the MCs showed a little more intelligence. They both acted like naïve, a bit immature youths; making huge errors in judgment. I think I’ve read too many of these novels and becoming a bit jade.
Anywho, I liked this second installment of the Brotherhood series and look forward to more.
Stephen Siddel orphanage owner & newly patron to the orphanage Lord ”Max” Hillsboro meet, love, and investigate missing children. I enjoyed the good storytelling, the interesting enough MCs even though the story is a bit on the fairytale side. OTOH, I wish the MCs showed a little more intelligence. They both acted like naïve, a bit immature youths; making huge errors in judgment. I think I’ve read too many of these novels and becoming a bit jade.
Anywho, I liked this second installment of the Brotherhood series and look forward to more.
June 25, 2020
Stephen and Max's Story
The characters told the story from page to page, as the story unfolds with missing children, mystery, fighting with self doubt of who he is and his actions of the past.
A story that sucked me in from the start and didn't let me go until I'd laughed, shed a few tears and got angry.
The characters told the story from page to page, as the story unfolds with missing children, mystery, fighting with self doubt of who he is and his actions of the past.
A story that sucked me in from the start and didn't let me go until I'd laughed, shed a few tears and got angry.
September 4, 2021
Kidnapping and Further Danger
Max and Stephen are just the right couple in this game of love and kidnapping.
Merry Farmer has done it again.
Max and Stephen are just the right couple in this game of love and kidnapping.
Merry Farmer has done it again.
May 2, 2020
Just a Little Temptation is book 2 in the Brotherhood series and wowzer... this story is getting good!
******
Overall Rating: 4 swooning stars!
Kindle Unlimited: No
Standalone: Yes, but there is an underlying storyline
Steam: 3, ooo la la flames
******
Max, is an aristocrat that has been exiled from him home due to his love choices. Stephen, a big hearted man who runs an orphanage for little girls, who just doesn't feel like he belongs because his heart has chosen a different path. The two of them together....fantastic!
Max is looking for a way to give back, and the Brotherhood recommended Stephen’s orphanage as one in need of support. However, Max finds more than orphans here, he finds the man of his dreams, at least that’s how it feels!
Stephen is a father figure to 25 girls, and, a former prostitute and her daughter. He is surrounded by women all day everyday. However, the moment Max walks through his door...the sparks fly and the chemistry is off the charts! Oooo la la! This book hurts my heart, the fact that people had to hide their true selves or face prison or worse just breaks me. Thank goodness, the Brotherhood is there to help our couple find each other and provide support during adversity!
In this book we dive deeper into the story of the missing children and the list of bad guys and their bad deeds is getting longer. When a child from Stephen’s orphanage goes missing...will they be able to find her? Can they catch the people behind the kidnapping’s? I will never tell! You need to read to find out....and it so worth it!
This book was just what I needed! An interesting story mixed with lust, steam, suspense and wonderful characters and love that made me
I am really enjoying this series and can’t wait for the next in the series! This gets a recommendation from me!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
******
Overall Rating: 4 swooning stars!
Kindle Unlimited: No
Standalone: Yes, but there is an underlying storyline
Steam: 3, ooo la la flames
******
Max, is an aristocrat that has been exiled from him home due to his love choices. Stephen, a big hearted man who runs an orphanage for little girls, who just doesn't feel like he belongs because his heart has chosen a different path. The two of them together....fantastic!
Max is looking for a way to give back, and the Brotherhood recommended Stephen’s orphanage as one in need of support. However, Max finds more than orphans here, he finds the man of his dreams, at least that’s how it feels!
Stephen is a father figure to 25 girls, and, a former prostitute and her daughter. He is surrounded by women all day everyday. However, the moment Max walks through his door...the sparks fly and the chemistry is off the charts! Oooo la la! This book hurts my heart, the fact that people had to hide their true selves or face prison or worse just breaks me. Thank goodness, the Brotherhood is there to help our couple find each other and provide support during adversity!
In this book we dive deeper into the story of the missing children and the list of bad guys and their bad deeds is getting longer. When a child from Stephen’s orphanage goes missing...will they be able to find her? Can they catch the people behind the kidnapping’s? I will never tell! You need to read to find out....and it so worth it!
This book was just what I needed! An interesting story mixed with lust, steam, suspense and wonderful characters and love that made me
I am really enjoying this series and can’t wait for the next in the series! This gets a recommendation from me!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2021
This second book of the series continues and develops the over-arching plot of kidnapped children from the streets of London ... featuring orphanage director Stephen and Max - superfluous younger son of a Lord (seeking to find his own way apart from his rejecting family). Both MCs are decent enough characters (occasionally too good to be true) ... with the insta-attract not acted upon upon nearer the half way mark (largely using the ploy of orphans and staff constantly barging in when least expected or wanted).
The romance aspects do not divert too much away from the urgency of rescuing said children, with the baddies involved in the kidnappings quite easily identified - however without much exploration as to their motivations, drives or intent. Several Brotherhood (and probably recurring) characters introduced in Just a Little Wickedness make their appearances post the midway mark to assist in the rescue efforts; the most interesting characters IMO are the loyal and feisty Mrs Ross and the archly acerbic Sister Constance - I could do with more of their no-holds-barred confrontations. To a realist such as myself, the HEA ending seemed quite improbable but I went with the flow given this is a periodic Victorian-era M-M romance.
The romance aspects do not divert too much away from the urgency of rescuing said children, with the baddies involved in the kidnappings quite easily identified - however without much exploration as to their motivations, drives or intent. Several Brotherhood (and probably recurring) characters introduced in Just a Little Wickedness make their appearances post the midway mark to assist in the rescue efforts; the most interesting characters IMO are the loyal and feisty Mrs Ross and the archly acerbic Sister Constance - I could do with more of their no-holds-barred confrontations. To a realist such as myself, the HEA ending seemed quite improbable but I went with the flow given this is a periodic Victorian-era M-M romance.
August 16, 2021
The underlying story is ok
But a lot of it is so over the top dramatically written that it’s hard to keep going. The ‘romance’ parts are totally ridiculous.
I seem to remember from the first book that the solicitors said other children had been kidnapped from an orphanage. Now in this book, that revolves around the orphanage, those children were kidnapped after the other one had been solved. That’s a pretty big mistake and it bugged me through the whole book.
There’s lots of contradiction. They make a point of saying both guys are into masculine dudes but whenever they’re talking to each other they’re so over the top emotional and dramatic it’s laughable. I could maybe see a more flamboyant guy saying some of these things but not guys who are supposed to be so manly.
But a lot of it is so over the top dramatically written that it’s hard to keep going. The ‘romance’ parts are totally ridiculous.
I seem to remember from the first book that the solicitors said other children had been kidnapped from an orphanage. Now in this book, that revolves around the orphanage, those children were kidnapped after the other one had been solved. That’s a pretty big mistake and it bugged me through the whole book.
There’s lots of contradiction. They make a point of saying both guys are into masculine dudes but whenever they’re talking to each other they’re so over the top emotional and dramatic it’s laughable. I could maybe see a more flamboyant guy saying some of these things but not guys who are supposed to be so manly.
October 8, 2020
“If loving you is wrong I don't wanna be right… If being right means being without you, I'd rather live a wrong... life... Long as I got you by my side…” ~ Luther Ingram (If Loving you is Wrong)
Stephen Siddel, of ‘Just a Little Temptation’ by Merry Farmer, has put his heart and soul into making a good home for young girls. His constant vigilance for his charges is worthwhile, but leaves him no time for himself. Despite being suspicious of his motives, when Max walks into Stephen’s life, he is floored by his visceral reaction to the man.
As Stephen is worrying about desperately needed contributions to keep his girl’s orphanage operational, an extraordinary thing happens. Lord Maxwell walks into the orphanage looking for Stephen. He soon learns that Max has been recommended to him by the Brotherhood. Seeing that Max wants to contribute to society in a charitable way, the Brotherhood suggested that Stephen and his orphanage might meet both of their needs. Stephen tries his best not to notice how attractive Max is but fails miserably. However, he quickly and firmly reminds himself to keep his mind on business.
Max is delighted to meet Stephen and, considering the instant attraction he feels towards him, is even happier that Stephen is of the “same persuasion”. He didn’t know who he expected the operator of a girl’s orphanage would be, but it most certainly was not this handsome young man before him. The more he learns about Stephen and his positive way of encouraging and loving the children rather than using the popular method of children being seen and not heard, the more he likes Stephen. This is certainly not the case in Stephen’s refuge. He is delighted to listen to the girls singing practice, especially when Stephen joins them in song. He can tell from the way Stephen blushes that Stephen notices the attention.
After becoming their benefactor, Stephen and Max start spending a lot of time together. He even arranges for a field trip for the girls to Max’s summer estate, thinking that his alienated family won’t be there. Unfortunately, they are present and treat Max, Stephen, and the rest of the adults and children very poorly. Upon learning that they sing, they demand that they sign for their guests. The performance devolves into a disaster when Max’s belligerent, drunk elder brother makes an ass of himself embarrassing Max and upsetting Stephen and the girls. Although not his fault, Max apologizes profusely for putting them in such an uncomfortable position.
After their fiasco field trip, Stephen is considering pulling the girls out of a charity concert event that they have been working towards, but Max begs him not to. After all, the orphanage needs the money. The night of the concert, the girls pile into three carriages provided by Max and head for the event. Unfortunately, things do not go as planned and chaos ensues. In all the confusion, one of the girls goes missing. Stephen finds out about it the next day and is horribly upset, especially since he has spent the night with Max. There’s no time to feel guilty though. They rush back to the site of the concert thinking that the girl might be there hiding in one of the rooms in the mansion, but no one has seen her. When they discover that two boys are missing from a nearby orphanage, they become even more concerned. Whatever it takes, Max and Stephen are determined to find the children and bring them home.
This is another great addition to the series. Merry has a knack for pulling me right into the story and not letting go. I loved Max and Stephen and, of course, the Brotherhood. The plot of intrigue and mystery grows as yet another group of children go missing. I can hardly wait for the next story. Thanks, Merry.
Stephen Siddel, of ‘Just a Little Temptation’ by Merry Farmer, has put his heart and soul into making a good home for young girls. His constant vigilance for his charges is worthwhile, but leaves him no time for himself. Despite being suspicious of his motives, when Max walks into Stephen’s life, he is floored by his visceral reaction to the man.
As Stephen is worrying about desperately needed contributions to keep his girl’s orphanage operational, an extraordinary thing happens. Lord Maxwell walks into the orphanage looking for Stephen. He soon learns that Max has been recommended to him by the Brotherhood. Seeing that Max wants to contribute to society in a charitable way, the Brotherhood suggested that Stephen and his orphanage might meet both of their needs. Stephen tries his best not to notice how attractive Max is but fails miserably. However, he quickly and firmly reminds himself to keep his mind on business.
Max is delighted to meet Stephen and, considering the instant attraction he feels towards him, is even happier that Stephen is of the “same persuasion”. He didn’t know who he expected the operator of a girl’s orphanage would be, but it most certainly was not this handsome young man before him. The more he learns about Stephen and his positive way of encouraging and loving the children rather than using the popular method of children being seen and not heard, the more he likes Stephen. This is certainly not the case in Stephen’s refuge. He is delighted to listen to the girls singing practice, especially when Stephen joins them in song. He can tell from the way Stephen blushes that Stephen notices the attention.
After becoming their benefactor, Stephen and Max start spending a lot of time together. He even arranges for a field trip for the girls to Max’s summer estate, thinking that his alienated family won’t be there. Unfortunately, they are present and treat Max, Stephen, and the rest of the adults and children very poorly. Upon learning that they sing, they demand that they sign for their guests. The performance devolves into a disaster when Max’s belligerent, drunk elder brother makes an ass of himself embarrassing Max and upsetting Stephen and the girls. Although not his fault, Max apologizes profusely for putting them in such an uncomfortable position.
After their fiasco field trip, Stephen is considering pulling the girls out of a charity concert event that they have been working towards, but Max begs him not to. After all, the orphanage needs the money. The night of the concert, the girls pile into three carriages provided by Max and head for the event. Unfortunately, things do not go as planned and chaos ensues. In all the confusion, one of the girls goes missing. Stephen finds out about it the next day and is horribly upset, especially since he has spent the night with Max. There’s no time to feel guilty though. They rush back to the site of the concert thinking that the girl might be there hiding in one of the rooms in the mansion, but no one has seen her. When they discover that two boys are missing from a nearby orphanage, they become even more concerned. Whatever it takes, Max and Stephen are determined to find the children and bring them home.
This is another great addition to the series. Merry has a knack for pulling me right into the story and not letting go. I loved Max and Stephen and, of course, the Brotherhood. The plot of intrigue and mystery grows as yet another group of children go missing. I can hardly wait for the next story. Thanks, Merry.
April 27, 2024
"Everything within him burned with fury to think that men like him and Max were vilified and seen as abominations while the men responsible for everything around him likely walked free in society, lauded as upright members of the community." (227)
I devoured this and am happily continuing onto the next volume because I am completely sold on the world Farmer has created. This picks up the plot thread of the human trafficking ring that was presented in book one and gets deeper into it, partly because Stephen Siddel runs an orphanage and is directly connected in a way the volume one couple wasn't. The characters are marvelous; we get to hang out with some of the side folks from book one again, including Officer Wrexham and Lionel and David and Jewel, but we also get some beautifully fleshed-out female characters--a sad rarity in M/M books. Thank God for Mrs. Ross, and how interesting the complicated Sister Constance, and the journey of Annie. Of course the orphan girls themselves are given plenty of space on the page to become real and Farmer's creation of the relationship between them and Stephen--and later Max--is as sweet and lovely as you could hope for. If you're a found family fan, this will ring that bell fairly well.
This also continues book one's investigation of what makes a monster by presenting not only high society villains (aplenty; Max's family is the worrrrrst) but also those who go against their own interests. Lady Bardess is a fascinating case study of chasing power even at one's own expense. And we get to see a bit of the setting in more detail; we leave London for a couple of plot arcs (one will be recognizable to fans of Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South" in terms of economic and physical impact) and also pick up some of the other mystery threads left open in book one. We get hints of Stephen's backstory without any actuality, and I'm not sure if that was meant to be a "the world is bigger than the books" hint or whether it will be picked up later. I hope it's the latter, as I'm quite curious.
I can tell this is a series I'm going to return to once I have the whole of it in my head to see where the clues are, but for now I'm delighted at the incredibly wholesome loveliness of Max and Stephen and their gaggle of girls.
I devoured this and am happily continuing onto the next volume because I am completely sold on the world Farmer has created. This picks up the plot thread of the human trafficking ring that was presented in book one and gets deeper into it, partly because Stephen Siddel runs an orphanage and is directly connected in a way the volume one couple wasn't. The characters are marvelous; we get to hang out with some of the side folks from book one again, including Officer Wrexham and Lionel and David and Jewel, but we also get some beautifully fleshed-out female characters--a sad rarity in M/M books. Thank God for Mrs. Ross, and how interesting the complicated Sister Constance, and the journey of Annie. Of course the orphan girls themselves are given plenty of space on the page to become real and Farmer's creation of the relationship between them and Stephen--and later Max--is as sweet and lovely as you could hope for. If you're a found family fan, this will ring that bell fairly well.
This also continues book one's investigation of what makes a monster by presenting not only high society villains (aplenty; Max's family is the worrrrrst) but also those who go against their own interests. Lady Bardess is a fascinating case study of chasing power even at one's own expense. And we get to see a bit of the setting in more detail; we leave London for a couple of plot arcs (one will be recognizable to fans of Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South" in terms of economic and physical impact) and also pick up some of the other mystery threads left open in book one. We get hints of Stephen's backstory without any actuality, and I'm not sure if that was meant to be a "the world is bigger than the books" hint or whether it will be picked up later. I hope it's the latter, as I'm quite curious.
I can tell this is a series I'm going to return to once I have the whole of it in my head to see where the clues are, but for now I'm delighted at the incredibly wholesome loveliness of Max and Stephen and their gaggle of girls.
May 1, 2020
This was one ARC I was ever so happy to read! O.M.G. I'm saying that even though M/M books are really off my beaten path. I tend to stick with strong men and strong women, regardless of the genre, but I think Merry Farmer may be changing my mind slowly.
I found that the first thing I have to do is go back and pick up the first book in this series, as I understand it laid the ground work for the missing children. But the missing children is only part of this story. The children themselves were adorable, and the outlying characters such as Sister Constance and Mrs. Ross were exceedingly well written. I could picture them in my mind as I was reading.
Stephen and Max? Oh boy. What to say about two men who just fell head over heels in love and lust with each other right out of the gate. And made for each other? Oh yes. Max, who sees Stephen as he truly is. And Stephen, who only sees himself as a weaker man who gives into his baser needs while neglecting his charges. So wrong, and Max really does convince him of that in the end.
I'm a technical reader, so I paid close attention to the plot, the arc of the story, the characterizations, as well as the balance of narrative and dialogue. Perfect. At no time did I feel that Ms. Farmer was telling the story. She allowed the characters to do that through their actions and speech. That alone is wonderful for a reader. It allows us to get involved with the characters, to become their friends, to feel what they're feeling. For that reason, this gets five stars.
There are those who don't like spicy books. This won't be the book for you then. But for anyone who loves a little spice with a wonderfully told story - I highly recommend this one. You won't go wrong.
I found that the first thing I have to do is go back and pick up the first book in this series, as I understand it laid the ground work for the missing children. But the missing children is only part of this story. The children themselves were adorable, and the outlying characters such as Sister Constance and Mrs. Ross were exceedingly well written. I could picture them in my mind as I was reading.
Stephen and Max? Oh boy. What to say about two men who just fell head over heels in love and lust with each other right out of the gate. And made for each other? Oh yes. Max, who sees Stephen as he truly is. And Stephen, who only sees himself as a weaker man who gives into his baser needs while neglecting his charges. So wrong, and Max really does convince him of that in the end.
I'm a technical reader, so I paid close attention to the plot, the arc of the story, the characterizations, as well as the balance of narrative and dialogue. Perfect. At no time did I feel that Ms. Farmer was telling the story. She allowed the characters to do that through their actions and speech. That alone is wonderful for a reader. It allows us to get involved with the characters, to become their friends, to feel what they're feeling. For that reason, this gets five stars.
There are those who don't like spicy books. This won't be the book for you then. But for anyone who loves a little spice with a wonderfully told story - I highly recommend this one. You won't go wrong.
May 3, 2020
Brothers In Each Other's Arms💕
Victorian M/M Romance💕. London 1890.
Stephen🐺 is a young man, the son of a Knight, who is completely involved with his small orphanage for about 25 girls between 5 and 15. It was left to him by his uncle.
They are running out of money and their building is run down, too. Stephen🐺 needs to find a patron or patroness. He appeals to a secret club called the Brotherhood, and they send him Lord Maxwell🐶 Hillsboro, the younger son of a Lord.
Max🐶 immediately realizes he and Stephen🐺 have a connection to each other. It's as if they have known each other for years. Is it love💕?
Stephen🐺 gets first hand knowledge about how cruel and crude the upper class can be when Max🐶 talks him into bringing all the children to his parents country home for their probable first and only chance to be in the fresh air and beauty of the English countryside.
Max's drunken older brother is not only cruel to Max🐶, he is cruel to the children, and cruel to Annie and her mother, the girl's music 🎶 teacher and former prostitute. WOW! What a mistake the country visit was for all of them!
The book shows the intolerance of British Society for Gay men at the time, and how they had to be completely secretive or be ostracized.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is an entirely unique subject for an historical romance. Well done!
Victorian M/M Romance💕. London 1890.
Stephen🐺 is a young man, the son of a Knight, who is completely involved with his small orphanage for about 25 girls between 5 and 15. It was left to him by his uncle.
They are running out of money and their building is run down, too. Stephen🐺 needs to find a patron or patroness. He appeals to a secret club called the Brotherhood, and they send him Lord Maxwell🐶 Hillsboro, the younger son of a Lord.
Max🐶 immediately realizes he and Stephen🐺 have a connection to each other. It's as if they have known each other for years. Is it love💕?
Stephen🐺 gets first hand knowledge about how cruel and crude the upper class can be when Max🐶 talks him into bringing all the children to his parents country home for their probable first and only chance to be in the fresh air and beauty of the English countryside.
Max's drunken older brother is not only cruel to Max🐶, he is cruel to the children, and cruel to Annie and her mother, the girl's music 🎶 teacher and former prostitute. WOW! What a mistake the country visit was for all of them!
The book shows the intolerance of British Society for Gay men at the time, and how they had to be completely secretive or be ostracized.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is an entirely unique subject for an historical romance. Well done!
April 24, 2020
Simple Attraction...
by and1515
Stephen's life was consistently changing day by day sometimes hour by hour with twenty-five girls in his care.
He'd had inherited the property from his Uncle and Stephen had been fortunate to find Mrs. Ross and her daughter Annie.
The girls needed to practice for the up coming concert will the hope they'd be able to raise donations.
With the introduction of Lord Maxwell Hillsboro a younger son from a well off family who apparently never expected much from him.
Mrs. Ross certainly held her own against sister Constance who seemed to be chocking on tons of bitterness and scornes anything that's different from her way of thinking.
Lady Bardess' certainly showed her true self proclaiming what a stuck up snob.
Children should be seen and not heard.
Max had felt horrible for having subject Stephen and the girls to his horrendous family he should have known better.
With the concert over and done they'd rounded up their girls as quickly as possible to return to the orphanage.
However the discovery of missing children has everyone on edge and desperately trying to find them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
Stephen's life was consistently changing day by day sometimes hour by hour with twenty-five girls in his care.
He'd had inherited the property from his Uncle and Stephen had been fortunate to find Mrs. Ross and her daughter Annie.
The girls needed to practice for the up coming concert will the hope they'd be able to raise donations.
With the introduction of Lord Maxwell Hillsboro a younger son from a well off family who apparently never expected much from him.
Mrs. Ross certainly held her own against sister Constance who seemed to be chocking on tons of bitterness and scornes anything that's different from her way of thinking.
Lady Bardess' certainly showed her true self proclaiming what a stuck up snob.
Children should be seen and not heard.
Max had felt horrible for having subject Stephen and the girls to his horrendous family he should have known better.
With the concert over and done they'd rounded up their girls as quickly as possible to return to the orphanage.
However the discovery of missing children has everyone on edge and desperately trying to find them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2020
Stephen is the owner of an orphanage for girls. Max is a younger son who doesn’t fit into his family. The sparks are there right away, but there are a number of obstacles, not least of which is the housekeeper’s daughter, Annie, who’s enamoured with Stephen.
There’s a concert held at Lady Bardess’ home, where one of Stephen’s girls and two boys from another orphanage go missing. There’s a kidnapping ring that’s a big operation, so with help from The Brotherhood, they search for the children.
The children are found and return home, and a few aristocrats are part of the ring, but are let free. This includes Lady Bardess’ brother and father, the lady herself, and Max’s father. More to fight in the next instalment.
I love these characters, Stephen is sweet, his housekeeper is cool, and my favourite, Lionel, is back, as well as Everett Jewel, the actor.
The Brotherhood is a great concept, and the evil aristocrats will be brought to justice. Well written, with a nice balance of adventure and romance, and even some humour.
KU
There’s a concert held at Lady Bardess’ home, where one of Stephen’s girls and two boys from another orphanage go missing. There’s a kidnapping ring that’s a big operation, so with help from The Brotherhood, they search for the children.
The children are found and return home, and a few aristocrats are part of the ring, but are let free. This includes Lady Bardess’ brother and father, the lady herself, and Max’s father. More to fight in the next instalment.
I love these characters, Stephen is sweet, his housekeeper is cool, and my favourite, Lionel, is back, as well as Everett Jewel, the actor.
The Brotherhood is a great concept, and the evil aristocrats will be brought to justice. Well written, with a nice balance of adventure and romance, and even some humour.
KU
April 29, 2020
This story is out of this world good. I thought the last one was terrific but this one is even better. It is not just about sex between two men who love each other, there is an amazing story also. I found Stephen to be a true gentleman and a true father figure to the girls of the orphanage (and anyone who needed love). I dare you not to sigh at his description of a tall fellow who wears glasses (I imagine them as small wire-rimmed). They way he keeps pushing them up on his face. Sigh again. How can you resist. Max coming to love the orphanage as much as Stephen was so wonderful to see develop. These two deserve a happily ever after. I am gushing but you have to know that this story is so well written and so poignant that you will read in one sitting (I just about did except for pesky work). But Merry, why did you leave us with Everett making the last statement of the book? Ugghh, we have to wait for the next story.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
May 2, 2020
The saga continues... Again we are facing the truely bad who gets away with murder, the good who is marginalised and the poor who are forgotten and thus not worth a thing.
It is not a strange story, and it did not only happen "A long, long time ago, far, far away..." this is still happening in the here and now and if we do not do something about it, speak up or act when it happens, things will never change. Merry does a wonderful job in bringing our attention to a prickly subject to our attention through a lovely, well thought of story that drives you to "kleenex", but she does it so in a matter that allows you to think of the implecations not only in rhe 19th century, but also today, as many people still hold on to the same beliefes. It gorces us to take the blinders of and see what is happening agound us.
Take the time you have noe, and read this beautiful love story.
It is not a strange story, and it did not only happen "A long, long time ago, far, far away..." this is still happening in the here and now and if we do not do something about it, speak up or act when it happens, things will never change. Merry does a wonderful job in bringing our attention to a prickly subject to our attention through a lovely, well thought of story that drives you to "kleenex", but she does it so in a matter that allows you to think of the implecations not only in rhe 19th century, but also today, as many people still hold on to the same beliefes. It gorces us to take the blinders of and see what is happening agound us.
Take the time you have noe, and read this beautiful love story.
May 8, 2020
I have been reading and loving Merry Farmer’s writing for many years. These books where she has ventured into the m/m historical world have fast become my new favorite series. The way she combines the various elements of the books is so well done. The Brotherhood that underpins the whole series is a terrific idea that pulls them together and gives great scope for the mysteries that make this group of books rise above the pack. I enjoy reading about the conflict that the men feel between who they love and what society and the law said at the time. I recommend this book highly if you enjoy m/m and if you don’t but like historical fiction you should try it as it may just give you something different to enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2020
Extraordinary Again
Like the first book of this series, and I suppose for the rest (I am on the third and it continues), the central plot is for a group of secretly gay men of all social backgrounds trying to ferret out and bring to justice the noblemen who are running a child kidnapping and abuse ring.
If that sounds daunting and off-putting, read the first book and then plunge into this one which features two sturdy and steamingly delicious protagonists--Stephen and Max--who dance around each other for a while but when they come together really rock and roll.
But the entire point of this series is the plot line, and it's brilliant in every respect, beautifully detailed, and chock full of exceptionally credible characters.
I don't think it would do you any good if I were to give you details of either the plot or the characters. Just get started on this series which will clutch your heart, steal your breath, and deliver everything a great series must do to keep your attention.
Like the first book of this series, and I suppose for the rest (I am on the third and it continues), the central plot is for a group of secretly gay men of all social backgrounds trying to ferret out and bring to justice the noblemen who are running a child kidnapping and abuse ring.
If that sounds daunting and off-putting, read the first book and then plunge into this one which features two sturdy and steamingly delicious protagonists--Stephen and Max--who dance around each other for a while but when they come together really rock and roll.
But the entire point of this series is the plot line, and it's brilliant in every respect, beautifully detailed, and chock full of exceptionally credible characters.
I don't think it would do you any good if I were to give you details of either the plot or the characters. Just get started on this series which will clutch your heart, steal your breath, and deliver everything a great series must do to keep your attention.
May 6, 2020
At a time when being gay is frowned on and dangerous, this story tells about Max, the youngest son of a Duke, meeting Stephen who runs an orphanage for girls, and the attraction that is instant. This is also a continuation to the story that involves missing children, who are taking them, where are they and why. Danger lurks throughout the book and part of it is from Max’s father. Loved the story, it is well written and the interaction between Max and Stephen is explosive. It is a fantastic story and I would highly recommend it as a great read.
April 17, 2024
A Beautiful Story, Well Told!
I listened to the audio version of this story..
What a beautiful and flowing story this was with Stephen running his orphanage for girls and keeping his hands clean, but, Oh Max! You are such a temptation for him.
Together with some help from a few of The Brotherhood members, they go about trying to solve the mystery of the disappearing children.
I loved how The Brotherhood is always there for their members, giving support and assistance whenever needed. They are like a family to each other.
And I also loved how strong the bond was between Stephen and Max.
I listened to the audio version of this story..
What a beautiful and flowing story this was with Stephen running his orphanage for girls and keeping his hands clean, but, Oh Max! You are such a temptation for him.
Together with some help from a few of The Brotherhood members, they go about trying to solve the mystery of the disappearing children.
I loved how The Brotherhood is always there for their members, giving support and assistance whenever needed. They are like a family to each other.
And I also loved how strong the bond was between Stephen and Max.
September 1, 2021
A madcap tumble through the underworld that also had a romance and some quality smut.
This series has that quality found in so many of my favorites where the romance part fits so closely into a tale of found family. I’ve long loved family dynasty style series like Stephanie Laurens’ Cynsters and Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons, but there’s no coincidence that Laurens’ Bastion Club is collectively my favorite of her works. Family isn’t always linked to biology. For many of us, it is something we have found and grown over the years. Add into that strong male friendships surrounding the primary relationships in this and so many of my favorite m/m series, and I am here for it with bells on.
Toxic masculinity is such a pervasive part of our culture that it still sometimes startles me when the men who are part of my found family talk about love and being family without any prompting. Imagining adding the historical persecution and murder of queer men in particular for no other reason than who they were born to that culture, and the depictions of entire communities coming together and flourishing bring me even more joy than just the relationship and smut.
Don’t get me wrong though, the smut is excellent.
This series has that quality found in so many of my favorites where the romance part fits so closely into a tale of found family. I’ve long loved family dynasty style series like Stephanie Laurens’ Cynsters and Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons, but there’s no coincidence that Laurens’ Bastion Club is collectively my favorite of her works. Family isn’t always linked to biology. For many of us, it is something we have found and grown over the years. Add into that strong male friendships surrounding the primary relationships in this and so many of my favorite m/m series, and I am here for it with bells on.
Toxic masculinity is such a pervasive part of our culture that it still sometimes startles me when the men who are part of my found family talk about love and being family without any prompting. Imagining adding the historical persecution and murder of queer men in particular for no other reason than who they were born to that culture, and the depictions of entire communities coming together and flourishing bring me even more joy than just the relationship and smut.
Don’t get me wrong though, the smut is excellent.
October 28, 2022
I love dipping back into the past and reading, not only of the love between two men, but the guarded life they had to live and the underlying fear of discovery, this author does that here perfectly. The kidnapping ring added such drama and danger, the pompous upper class, which I always love to hate, add to the thrill of this tale. This is part of a series, each has a different main couple but the kidnapping part continues in each one as they try to track down the people involved.
April 22, 2024
This second instalment of The Brotherhood series is about Stephen and Max.
When a girl is going missing from the orphanage for girls that Stephen owns, along with two boys from another orphanage, he and Max have their suspicions. I loved to see their love blooming, despite all they had to endure.
The mystery of the kidnappers ring is still to be continued, but we get an idea of who the people behind it really are.
This review is based on the audiobook. Which I really enjoyed listening to.
When a girl is going missing from the orphanage for girls that Stephen owns, along with two boys from another orphanage, he and Max have their suspicions. I loved to see their love blooming, despite all they had to endure.
The mystery of the kidnappers ring is still to be continued, but we get an idea of who the people behind it really are.
This review is based on the audiobook. Which I really enjoyed listening to.
May 11, 2020
The second book in The Brotherhood series a well written M/M story that kept me turning pages. Stephen Siddel and Lord Maxwell Hillsboro's story of kidnapping, drama, danger, evil men, and romance. I want to read the next book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2020
Stephan runs an orphanage for girls. He has no time for a relationship. He's always looking for donors to help keep the orphanage afloat. Lord Hillsboro, Max to his friends, wants to help the underprivileged and is told that the orphanage needed help. He meets Stephan and knows that he wants to get to know him better but Stephan fights the attraction. I really enjoyed this book.
May 20, 2020
Max and Stephen were an interesting couple and I liked their story. I liked that Stephen owns the orphanage and Max is sent to help the orphanage. I liked that this was a good story about Max and Stephen but there was also the story line of the missing children.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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