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The Gentleman Courtesans #5
Chasing Benedict
Benedict Sterling founded The Gentleman Courtesans agency to assure financial security for himself and his friends. Unfortunately, the efforts of a spiteful gossip-column writer threaten to expose his secrets—including those that could see him ruined and ostracized. With everyone he cares about in the path of his enemy, he is determined to silence The London Gossip once and for all. But when a lover from his past returns seeking to make amends, Benedict is left grappling with the pain of his past as well as his present dilemma.
Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautrey, has returned to London with a singular goal—win back the man he loves. Unfortunately, their previous separation has made Benedict resistant to ever allow Alex into his life again. He’ll do anything to win the other man’s heart—including accept the terms of a contract that will temporarily set Benedict up as his courtesan. For now, Alex is willing to take whatever Ben is willing to give. However, in the end he will settle for nothing less than a future with the love of his life.
Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautrey, has returned to London with a singular goal—win back the man he loves. Unfortunately, their previous separation has made Benedict resistant to ever allow Alex into his life again. He’ll do anything to win the other man’s heart—including accept the terms of a contract that will temporarily set Benedict up as his courtesan. For now, Alex is willing to take whatever Ben is willing to give. However, in the end he will settle for nothing less than a future with the love of his life.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2020
16 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Vale
37 books576 followersVictoria Vale writes erotic romance that refuses to stay in its lane. She hops between history and suspense, blending danger with desire until the edges blur. Her stories are marked by bold heroines, irresistible heroes, and heat that never behaves the way it should. Love Me Darkly (2025) proves passion is always at its best when it misbehaves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 28, 2021
Audio - 5 +++ Stars Darcy Stark
Story - 5 +++ Stars Victoria Vale
If Victoria Vale writes it and Darcy Stark narrates it, chances are I'm going to love it!
I've been stalking audible daily for this audio since the book came out. The wait has been painful, but worth it!
I loved Ben and Alex's story. It can be read as a standalone. Their story is a second chance romance and the angst and passion is real! Ben's been hurt, and Alex will do anything to make it up to him. He doesn't back down.
Dear Author,
Please don't let this be your last MM. I need more!
Thank you!
_____________
OMG!!! Victoria Vale, Goddess of angsty historical erotica, has answered my prayers!!! An MM historical romance!
One-click pre-order ✔✔✔✔✔✔
Story - 5 +++ Stars Victoria Vale
If Victoria Vale writes it and Darcy Stark narrates it, chances are I'm going to love it!
I've been stalking audible daily for this audio since the book came out. The wait has been painful, but worth it!
I loved Ben and Alex's story. It can be read as a standalone. Their story is a second chance romance and the angst and passion is real! Ben's been hurt, and Alex will do anything to make it up to him. He doesn't back down.
Dear Author,
Please don't let this be your last MM. I need more!
Thank you!
_____________
OMG!!! Victoria Vale, Goddess of angsty historical erotica, has answered my prayers!!! An MM historical romance!
One-click pre-order ✔✔✔✔✔✔
April 16, 2021
Audiobook: ***4.5 Stars***
Story: ***4 Stars***
I felt like missing a bit of the backstory here since I haven't read/listened to the other (m/f) books in this series and I was a bit lost remembering who's who, but other than that I had a very good time and Darcy Stark is just... *chef's kiss*
A biiiiig thank you goes to my sweet friend Lyn for gifting me this book
Story: ***4 Stars***
I felt like missing a bit of the backstory here since I haven't read/listened to the other (m/f) books in this series and I was a bit lost remembering who's who, but other than that I had a very good time and Darcy Stark is just... *chef's kiss*
A biiiiig thank you goes to my sweet friend Lyn for gifting me this book
December 22, 2020
I was one of the lucky ones who read an ARC of this book. Usually, I write my reviews on Amazon, then come over here to Goodreads and if I want to swear over here, I can. Holy F#%k. Those are the two words to best describe this book.
This is the book that is meant to be the crescendo in the series known as The Gentleman Courtesans. There is a prequel out there, as well as 4 other very well written books, each centering around one of the gentlemen courtesans. This is Benedict's book, the man who put together the Courtesan's, in secret, in private, for the enjoyment of the females in London who could afford to be their keepers. But Benedict never sells himself, he doesn't have a "keeper" through the other books.
This book is one of the best M/M books I've ever read. And I DO read them, often. Because I love erotica, Victoria Vale has become one of my go-to authors for Historical Erotica, or as I like to call it, Regency Smut. And she outdid herself with this book, by turning up the steam past boiling and into death-defying. I found myself not wanting to stop reading or fantasizing. Oh yes, I wanted to be in the same room watching as Benedict and Alex interacted.
Ben, who had loved Alex for most of his life, even when Alex deserted him to marry. And Alex, as we find out, who never stopped loving Benedict. But life has happened since Ben saw Alex last, and Ben is still angry about Alex deserting him. But even more importantly, Alex has secrets of his own that he knows he has to explain the Ben, but isn't all too sure that Ben will take it well.
And now for the part that turns author's heads. I honestly don't know how Victoria Vale wrote this book. It is far more than just a Regency Erotic novel. I think, of all her books (and I've read every single one more than once), this is the one the shook me and moved me the most. I asked myself more than once while I was reading if it was because it was a M/M novel that she usually doesn't write? Or perhaps she just developed the characters a bit more than usual. No, it wasn't any of those things. This book was written with heart. A big, blooming, wonderful, loving heart. I realized that Ms. Vale was waiting to write Benedict's book all along. It had to kill her to write the other courtesan's first, when Ben's book was dying to be let out. I managed to make it to 70% or so before I felt my eyes burning with tears. But it was very early in the book when it occurred to me that this went beyond a love story. This was a love story, a second chance story, erotica, and a fable of sorts, all wrapped up into one. And the fact that the author put everything she had into this story told me how much she loved the characters of Benedict and Alex. And I will say again, Holy F#%k.
I read a lot. This year I have read about 180 books, and have re-read another 20-30. This book? Chasing Benedict? This one is going to be mine for a long time. And when Ms. Vale offers a paperback, I'm going to insist that she sign it. Because, as far as I'm concerned, this book would stand as a triumph for ANY independent author, but especially Ms. Vale, who needs to know that she just keeps getting better. Her books, up until now, have wrung me out with their passion, steam, and love, but this one? It will make the books in my TBR list pale for quite some time.
And because I've read everything she's written, I will tell you that her other books come into play here, but I'm not saying how. Only that you have not seen the end of the great characters she's written. Let me say there was a portion of the book where I had to rest and squee to myself for awhile.
I'm always making comments in her Facebook group about how she should go back into her writing cave and write, and boy did she listen. Wow (I reserve the right to add superlatives to this review as I think of them, and yes, now I'll head to Amazon and write a review with a few less Holy F#%ks.)
This is the book that is meant to be the crescendo in the series known as The Gentleman Courtesans. There is a prequel out there, as well as 4 other very well written books, each centering around one of the gentlemen courtesans. This is Benedict's book, the man who put together the Courtesan's, in secret, in private, for the enjoyment of the females in London who could afford to be their keepers. But Benedict never sells himself, he doesn't have a "keeper" through the other books.
This book is one of the best M/M books I've ever read. And I DO read them, often. Because I love erotica, Victoria Vale has become one of my go-to authors for Historical Erotica, or as I like to call it, Regency Smut. And she outdid herself with this book, by turning up the steam past boiling and into death-defying. I found myself not wanting to stop reading or fantasizing. Oh yes, I wanted to be in the same room watching as Benedict and Alex interacted.
Ben, who had loved Alex for most of his life, even when Alex deserted him to marry. And Alex, as we find out, who never stopped loving Benedict. But life has happened since Ben saw Alex last, and Ben is still angry about Alex deserting him. But even more importantly, Alex has secrets of his own that he knows he has to explain the Ben, but isn't all too sure that Ben will take it well.
And now for the part that turns author's heads. I honestly don't know how Victoria Vale wrote this book. It is far more than just a Regency Erotic novel. I think, of all her books (and I've read every single one more than once), this is the one the shook me and moved me the most. I asked myself more than once while I was reading if it was because it was a M/M novel that she usually doesn't write? Or perhaps she just developed the characters a bit more than usual. No, it wasn't any of those things. This book was written with heart. A big, blooming, wonderful, loving heart. I realized that Ms. Vale was waiting to write Benedict's book all along. It had to kill her to write the other courtesan's first, when Ben's book was dying to be let out. I managed to make it to 70% or so before I felt my eyes burning with tears. But it was very early in the book when it occurred to me that this went beyond a love story. This was a love story, a second chance story, erotica, and a fable of sorts, all wrapped up into one. And the fact that the author put everything she had into this story told me how much she loved the characters of Benedict and Alex. And I will say again, Holy F#%k.
I read a lot. This year I have read about 180 books, and have re-read another 20-30. This book? Chasing Benedict? This one is going to be mine for a long time. And when Ms. Vale offers a paperback, I'm going to insist that she sign it. Because, as far as I'm concerned, this book would stand as a triumph for ANY independent author, but especially Ms. Vale, who needs to know that she just keeps getting better. Her books, up until now, have wrung me out with their passion, steam, and love, but this one? It will make the books in my TBR list pale for quite some time.
And because I've read everything she's written, I will tell you that her other books come into play here, but I'm not saying how. Only that you have not seen the end of the great characters she's written. Let me say there was a portion of the book where I had to rest and squee to myself for awhile.
I'm always making comments in her Facebook group about how she should go back into her writing cave and write, and boy did she listen. Wow (I reserve the right to add superlatives to this review as I think of them, and yes, now I'll head to Amazon and write a review with a few less Holy F#%ks.)
March 28, 2021
5 +++++++ stars audio and story!!!!!😍😍😍😍😍
December 26, 2020
Benedict Sterling has long been determined to be financially independent of his hateful father and establishing the Gentleman Courtesans has helped him achieve that goal and help his friends out of tight situations as well. But his success is now threatened by the vindictive London Gossip who threatens to expose his secrets, and those of his friends, in print. Determined to prevent ruination and, more importantly, protect the reputations of his friends, Benedict sets out to learn the Gossip’s identity and put a stop to her slander for good. While he’s bogged down with this dilemma, distraction arrives in the form of a past love seeking to set things right and Ben must also deal with the traumas of his past along with the problems of the present.
Lord Alexander Osborne, now the Earl of Vautrey, has returned to London for the sole purpose of winning back the love of his life. But after three years of separation which followed a painfully abrupt parting, Ben is adamant he won’t allow Alex back into his life. But Alex is determined, and stubborn, and he’ll do anything he must to get Ben to hear his explanations of the past, including contracting him as his temporary courtesan. Alex will take anything he can persuade Ben to give, and he’s willing to be patient, but he won’t give up until he’s achieved the future he and Ben were so cruelly denied.
I was a bit nervous about this book at first, especially given the high angst level I expected, but I actually think this may be my favorite of the series so far. This was certainly one of the most emotional books I’ve ever read and the pacing of conversations, intimacy, and ultimately reconciliation between Ben and Alex was spot on. The revelations kept setting me back each time, even after I thought I had it all figured out. This was extremely well thought out and well-executed and the angst was just enough to heighten the emotions and make me not want to put this down without making it a chore to read. Alex’s grand finale was superb, and I loved how Ben learned to rely on his friends and Alex and that he didn’t always have to handle things alone. Both Ben and Alex had a lot of past trauma to overcome, especially Ben, and I felt like the intimate scenes between them were used to foster the development of their relationship and renewed closeness and trust, rather than just thrown in to be gratuitous. This was a highly emotional book, but it ended on such a feel-good high with the idea of choosing your friends and making your own family that I couldn’t help but love it and I already have favorite scenes I want to go back and reread. Victoria has outdone herself and obviously put so much hard work into this, I can’t give it less than the full five stars and I look forward to Lyons’ story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lord Alexander Osborne, now the Earl of Vautrey, has returned to London for the sole purpose of winning back the love of his life. But after three years of separation which followed a painfully abrupt parting, Ben is adamant he won’t allow Alex back into his life. But Alex is determined, and stubborn, and he’ll do anything he must to get Ben to hear his explanations of the past, including contracting him as his temporary courtesan. Alex will take anything he can persuade Ben to give, and he’s willing to be patient, but he won’t give up until he’s achieved the future he and Ben were so cruelly denied.
I was a bit nervous about this book at first, especially given the high angst level I expected, but I actually think this may be my favorite of the series so far. This was certainly one of the most emotional books I’ve ever read and the pacing of conversations, intimacy, and ultimately reconciliation between Ben and Alex was spot on. The revelations kept setting me back each time, even after I thought I had it all figured out. This was extremely well thought out and well-executed and the angst was just enough to heighten the emotions and make me not want to put this down without making it a chore to read. Alex’s grand finale was superb, and I loved how Ben learned to rely on his friends and Alex and that he didn’t always have to handle things alone. Both Ben and Alex had a lot of past trauma to overcome, especially Ben, and I felt like the intimate scenes between them were used to foster the development of their relationship and renewed closeness and trust, rather than just thrown in to be gratuitous. This was a highly emotional book, but it ended on such a feel-good high with the idea of choosing your friends and making your own family that I couldn’t help but love it and I already have favorite scenes I want to go back and reread. Victoria has outdone herself and obviously put so much hard work into this, I can’t give it less than the full five stars and I look forward to Lyons’ story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 30, 2021
4.5 stars.
December 23, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
This series and this book are just Pure Gold.
If your looking for steamy and romantic, stunning characters and addictive reading, you just found it.
Benedict and Alex are a couple who grew up through school together, became a couple, until Alex married leaving Ben waiting and broken with betrayal.
But why!
There a questions that need answers, but can Alex answer them and will Ben even let him near enough to explain.
Alex wants him back, but no one is more stubborn than Ben.
This may take some time, but Alex has that and he has love , passion and affection in droves for this man.
Get reading, all is about to be revealed.
Victoria is a brilliant writer, if you want a series that is enjoyable, enthralling and quite steamy, this is right up your street.
Loved every minute of reading this, so much I may just start it again.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋💋
This series and this book are just Pure Gold.
If your looking for steamy and romantic, stunning characters and addictive reading, you just found it.
Benedict and Alex are a couple who grew up through school together, became a couple, until Alex married leaving Ben waiting and broken with betrayal.
But why!
There a questions that need answers, but can Alex answer them and will Ben even let him near enough to explain.
Alex wants him back, but no one is more stubborn than Ben.
This may take some time, but Alex has that and he has love , passion and affection in droves for this man.
Get reading, all is about to be revealed.
Victoria is a brilliant writer, if you want a series that is enjoyable, enthralling and quite steamy, this is right up your street.
Loved every minute of reading this, so much I may just start it again.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
December 19, 2020
All is Revealed!
This is one of the best mystery-suspense, romance stories I have read this year!
I was pulled right into it from the very first page and held there until the absolute end.
So much is uncovered about Benedict's life and you will find out how and why he got to become such a secretive and yet forceful character.
Alex is the complete opposite. Why he abandoned Benedict, all those many years ago, is also revealed.
My word! What a story! This is a book that just has to be read!
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and my voluntary and unbiased review is recorded above.
This is one of the best mystery-suspense, romance stories I have read this year!
I was pulled right into it from the very first page and held there until the absolute end.
So much is uncovered about Benedict's life and you will find out how and why he got to become such a secretive and yet forceful character.
Alex is the complete opposite. Why he abandoned Benedict, all those many years ago, is also revealed.
My word! What a story! This is a book that just has to be read!
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and my voluntary and unbiased review is recorded above.
April 7, 2021
Let me start by saying The Gentleman Courtesans Series, has been the most delightfully original premise for a series that I have read to date. At the end of the last book, Vale gave her readers a heads up as to the secret Benedict Sterling has been keeping throughout the series. Talk about ripping off the band aid! My jaw hit the floor when the love of Benedict’s life, Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautry returns seeking a second chance.
Never having read an M/M romance, I found myself in a bit of a quandary. Ultimately I decided who better to take me into uncharted waters than an author whose writing I admire. I’m so very glad that I did. Benedict and Alex’s story is filled with such raw emotion that I literally could not put it down. A compelling story set in a time when unspeakable things were done to those who indulged in forbidden love.
Growing up as a third son, Benedict only ever really felt love from his mother, until he met Alex at school. The two make plans to go away together but Alex never shows. What follows is a compelling tale of loss, heartache, betrayal, desperation and cruelty. The story then transforms itself into one of courage, healing and redemption.
This reader gave into the emotional roller coaster ride and simply lost it during the scene where the pair divulges what they each went through while separated. This was one well deserved HEA. The icing on the cake is the rallying support Ben receives from his friends in addition to Alex’s secret. Oh and of course there are steamy scenes, it is a Victoria Vale book after all….
I was provided with an ARC and this is my honest review.
Never having read an M/M romance, I found myself in a bit of a quandary. Ultimately I decided who better to take me into uncharted waters than an author whose writing I admire. I’m so very glad that I did. Benedict and Alex’s story is filled with such raw emotion that I literally could not put it down. A compelling story set in a time when unspeakable things were done to those who indulged in forbidden love.
Growing up as a third son, Benedict only ever really felt love from his mother, until he met Alex at school. The two make plans to go away together but Alex never shows. What follows is a compelling tale of loss, heartache, betrayal, desperation and cruelty. The story then transforms itself into one of courage, healing and redemption.
This reader gave into the emotional roller coaster ride and simply lost it during the scene where the pair divulges what they each went through while separated. This was one well deserved HEA. The icing on the cake is the rallying support Ben receives from his friends in addition to Alex’s secret. Oh and of course there are steamy scenes, it is a Victoria Vale book after all….
I was provided with an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 21, 2020
If you have read any of Victoria Vale’s Gentlemen Courtesan books you will not wish to miss this one. It is not the last but there is so much in this one that explains everything that has gone before. I do not usually read M/M books but this one was exceptional. Benedict was so tortured and now we find out why, we also find out what happened to Alex and it is nothing you could imagine. With relatives like Benedict’s father we would all wish to be orphans, it is hard to comprehend how someone could be so evil, but at least he gets his comeuppance along with the London Gossip. All the Courtesans make an appearance and we get to catch up with their lives. There are times when I shed tears of sadness and times when I had tears of joy and the ending was lovely. This was absolutely the best Gentleman Courtesans book by far don’t miss it.
August 26, 2021
Audiobook:~4 Stars
January 6, 2021
Chasing Benedict by Victoria Vale is a regency romance novel that finishes up her first series of Gentlemen Courtesans novels. Benedict Sterling, the founder of the Gentleman Courtesan (GC) agency, is our hero as he deals with keeping the agency and its associates and clientele secret from the London Gossip. The London Gossip seems to have a personal vendetta against Benedict and is threatening to expose everyone involved, ruining the reputations of men and women alike who found pleasure and (in some cases) love. Lord Alex Osborne is our other hero.
Yes, this is a M/M Historical Romance. Bet you didn’t think Victoria Vale wrote those, did you?
Let me start off by saying OH MY F-ING GOSH, can she write an M/M Historical Romance. This book grabbed me from the first page. Benedict has always been my favorite of her GC characters. He’s always in control, always has a solution to every problem imaginable. So when the London Gossip started getting the better of him, I had to worry about my guy. Enter Alex. He’s loved Benedict since before their first kiss. He was Benedict’s first kiss, and first cuddle and first etc. They are fire together, and not destructive fire, but cleansing fire that gets rid of doubts and fears and only leaves the best, purest stuff behind. I was afraid Ms. Vale wouldn’t be able to create the perfect foil for our Benedict, but boy, was I wrong. She’s been waiting to tell his story from the beginning and it shows. Like Aubrey’s story, there was a great deal of care creating the relationship between Alex and Benedict and even between Benedict and the London Gossip. Ms. Vale said she based her on Lady Whistledown (From Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series) but wanted to make sure we hated her. She succeeded. I wanted her to get hit by a bus. She was so good at baiting Benedict and the other GCs, so good at creating scandal where there shouldn’t be any. Needless to say, the characters are well thought out, well developed and well written.
And hot. Very very hot. I’ve recommended this book to friends who read only M/M because the story is captivating and the sexy times are on fire. I’m surprised my kindle didn’t overheat while I was reading this book.
In conclusion, I LOVE THIS BOOK. I plan on rereading it again (already re-read twice) and when it comes out in print, I’ll beg for an autographed copy. Ms. Vale says the stories of the GCs aren’t over, and that there will be more in the future, but I’m saying I want them now! I can’t say enough about this book, this series, other than Bravo, Ms. Vale. Thank you, and encore!
Yes, this is a M/M Historical Romance. Bet you didn’t think Victoria Vale wrote those, did you?
Let me start off by saying OH MY F-ING GOSH, can she write an M/M Historical Romance. This book grabbed me from the first page. Benedict has always been my favorite of her GC characters. He’s always in control, always has a solution to every problem imaginable. So when the London Gossip started getting the better of him, I had to worry about my guy. Enter Alex. He’s loved Benedict since before their first kiss. He was Benedict’s first kiss, and first cuddle and first etc. They are fire together, and not destructive fire, but cleansing fire that gets rid of doubts and fears and only leaves the best, purest stuff behind. I was afraid Ms. Vale wouldn’t be able to create the perfect foil for our Benedict, but boy, was I wrong. She’s been waiting to tell his story from the beginning and it shows. Like Aubrey’s story, there was a great deal of care creating the relationship between Alex and Benedict and even between Benedict and the London Gossip. Ms. Vale said she based her on Lady Whistledown (From Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series) but wanted to make sure we hated her. She succeeded. I wanted her to get hit by a bus. She was so good at baiting Benedict and the other GCs, so good at creating scandal where there shouldn’t be any. Needless to say, the characters are well thought out, well developed and well written.
And hot. Very very hot. I’ve recommended this book to friends who read only M/M because the story is captivating and the sexy times are on fire. I’m surprised my kindle didn’t overheat while I was reading this book.
In conclusion, I LOVE THIS BOOK. I plan on rereading it again (already re-read twice) and when it comes out in print, I’ll beg for an autographed copy. Ms. Vale says the stories of the GCs aren’t over, and that there will be more in the future, but I’m saying I want them now! I can’t say enough about this book, this series, other than Bravo, Ms. Vale. Thank you, and encore!
December 20, 2020
An M/M second chance romance. Trigger warnings: rape and torture. Explicit sex.
Still with me? This is the 5th book in the Gentleman Courtesans series, and centers on Benedict, leader and manager for the group. I won’t spoil it (that would be a much longer review!), but here are the basics: Benedict has been a secretive character since the series start, and here we find out all of his secrets while also solving the mystery of the London Gossip, who is bent on destroying Benedict and exposing the courtesans.
Vale explains all while telling the story of Alex, Lord Vautrey, Benedict’s first love. Many Things have driven them apart, but Alex is back for a second chance. Benedict wants nothing to do with Alex, but Alex is determined.
When I say Vale explains all, I mean it. The series is wrapped up with a satisfying bow, so thoroughly that I had a minute of panic when, after cameos from Hartmoor and Avonleah (from other Vale books), I wondered if she was putting a bow on her regency writing altogether. The story was that thoroughly woven together from the previous series installments. Luckily, she promises more at the end of the book. Phew.
Vale writes well, and has gotten me through some beautiful stories with subjects I don’t normally enjoy. So unless the triggers mentioned above are real dealbreakers for you, rest assured that with Benedict’s story, she has saved the best for last. I stayed up way too late reading the ARC I was excited to get, and highly recommend it. But please start at the start. This pulls all of the books together so masterfully that it would be a shame to miss out by only reading this one. Go back and start with Tempting the Bluestocking.
Still with me? This is the 5th book in the Gentleman Courtesans series, and centers on Benedict, leader and manager for the group. I won’t spoil it (that would be a much longer review!), but here are the basics: Benedict has been a secretive character since the series start, and here we find out all of his secrets while also solving the mystery of the London Gossip, who is bent on destroying Benedict and exposing the courtesans.
Vale explains all while telling the story of Alex, Lord Vautrey, Benedict’s first love. Many Things have driven them apart, but Alex is back for a second chance. Benedict wants nothing to do with Alex, but Alex is determined.
When I say Vale explains all, I mean it. The series is wrapped up with a satisfying bow, so thoroughly that I had a minute of panic when, after cameos from Hartmoor and Avonleah (from other Vale books), I wondered if she was putting a bow on her regency writing altogether. The story was that thoroughly woven together from the previous series installments. Luckily, she promises more at the end of the book. Phew.
Vale writes well, and has gotten me through some beautiful stories with subjects I don’t normally enjoy. So unless the triggers mentioned above are real dealbreakers for you, rest assured that with Benedict’s story, she has saved the best for last. I stayed up way too late reading the ARC I was excited to get, and highly recommend it. But please start at the start. This pulls all of the books together so masterfully that it would be a shame to miss out by only reading this one. Go back and start with Tempting the Bluestocking.
March 29, 2021
This was a very moving and emotional story. Benedict’s life was not easy, as he was abused by his father and abused at school. Although it did teach him to fight back for himself, he eventually closed off his feelings when the last person who cared for him, his mother, died. Then miraculously finding love with Alex Osborne gave him hope again for a life with a person he could love – until he was betrayed by Alex and was left alone again.
When Alex finally comes back for Benedict, he is no longer the same person he had loved. Now he is filled with bitterness. Can Alex find the man he loved and bring him back? Or is it too late to heal his pain and share love with him again?
The story was well-written and gripping as the writing paints a vivid picture of the abuse endured by Benedict. His mother loved him, but died and “left” him in this cruel environment of abuse. Alex offered hope, then dashed it. The reader will feel the emptiness inside of Benedict. Has he given up the struggle to fight against all of his disappointments? Can Alex’s love give him a spark of hope to try yet again?
When Alex finally comes back for Benedict, he is no longer the same person he had loved. Now he is filled with bitterness. Can Alex find the man he loved and bring him back? Or is it too late to heal his pain and share love with him again?
The story was well-written and gripping as the writing paints a vivid picture of the abuse endured by Benedict. His mother loved him, but died and “left” him in this cruel environment of abuse. Alex offered hope, then dashed it. The reader will feel the emptiness inside of Benedict. Has he given up the struggle to fight against all of his disappointments? Can Alex’s love give him a spark of hope to try yet again?
December 20, 2020
One of the things I love about this author is how easy it is to connect with the characters from her books. I feel their happiness and their pain and I want them to get their hea. This book hooked from the very beginning and now I am sad its over.
I love that the characters from the previous books make an appearance in this book. Ben played a huge role in brining the other characters together in the previous books so it was so nice that they came together for him in his book.
Benedict Sterling is the leader of the Gentleman Courtesans and he is the last to find his hea. Ben has been through a lot in his life and it hasn't been easy for him.
Even though we didn't meet Alex until this book he is easy to love from the very beginning.
I recommend this book to the mm historical romance fans that want a great story sprinkled with some hot steamy scenes.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
I love that the characters from the previous books make an appearance in this book. Ben played a huge role in brining the other characters together in the previous books so it was so nice that they came together for him in his book.
Benedict Sterling is the leader of the Gentleman Courtesans and he is the last to find his hea. Ben has been through a lot in his life and it hasn't been easy for him.
Even though we didn't meet Alex until this book he is easy to love from the very beginning.
I recommend this book to the mm historical romance fans that want a great story sprinkled with some hot steamy scenes.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2020
Revealing The Past
This is the darkest and most disturbing of the Courtesan books. Only loved by his mother, Benedict grows up abused verbally by a father who despises him, then verbally and physically abused at school. Benedict learns to fight back and take care of himself. After his mother's death, he shuts down his emotions, until one person brings love back into his life, his schoolmate Alex Osborne. Just when they make plans for a life together, Alex abandons and betrays him. Years later, Alex is free to make a life with Benedict. The man he once knew has become brutal and cold. Alex is determined to bring back his soul-mate and save him from his enemies. Unfortunately, Alex's secrets may tear them apart. One of the hardest books I've read in a while, it brings both pain and joy.
Of note is the question that isn't answered, Benedict's statement to Nick...."The one thing I haven't told must wait."(???)
This is the darkest and most disturbing of the Courtesan books. Only loved by his mother, Benedict grows up abused verbally by a father who despises him, then verbally and physically abused at school. Benedict learns to fight back and take care of himself. After his mother's death, he shuts down his emotions, until one person brings love back into his life, his schoolmate Alex Osborne. Just when they make plans for a life together, Alex abandons and betrays him. Years later, Alex is free to make a life with Benedict. The man he once knew has become brutal and cold. Alex is determined to bring back his soul-mate and save him from his enemies. Unfortunately, Alex's secrets may tear them apart. One of the hardest books I've read in a while, it brings both pain and joy.
Of note is the question that isn't answered, Benedict's statement to Nick...."The one thing I haven't told must wait."(???)
January 3, 2021
I was waiting for Benedict’s story and wasn’t disappointed. This was a captivating story that told of Benedict’s reuniting with his former lover Alex. Their story is told through flashbacks to when they first met in their earlier days. However, Ben had felt such heartache over the past and wasn’t sure he could forgive Alex. There are also some untold matters to be revealed. There is also the matter of the London Gossip and her threat to Ben’s livelihood, not to mention his excuse of a father. This story will keep you gripped until the end and believe me, the end is well worth waiting for! I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I did also purchase my own copy.
December 27, 2020
This is a beautiful, super angsty, second-chance Regency love story. It is the fifth book in this series, and the characters in the previous volumes make an appearance herein. The fact that the 2 main characters featured in this particular book are men dramatically raises the stakes, because in Regency England such a relationship could find both parties imprisoned and/or executed.
Benedict Sterling has fought – literally and physically - to be financially independent of his father. For years he has engaged in boxing matches and won a lot of money. Then, setting up the Gentleman Courtesans helped him achieve that goal while simultaneously helping his friends out of tight situations as well; every time a contract with set up for one of his friends with a “keeper,” Ben received a cut of the money for making the arrangements. As we learned in prior books, the London Gossip has been threatening to expose the secrets of the Gentleman Courtesans. Lord Alexander Osborne, the recent Earl of Vautrey, has come back to London determined to win back the love he was forced to abandon 3 years prior. Ben is just as determined not to let Alex back into his life. Alex is stubbornly resolved to do anything necessary to get Ben to listen to what he needs to tell him ... Including hiring him as a courtesan for a month.
This book is a powerhouse of emotion. It is full of gut-wrenching revelations, twists and turns, betrayals and loyalties, cruelty and compassion, intolerance and understanding. Ben’s father is horrible beyond words, as is the London Gossip. By the time we get to the last page, Ben learns that real friendship is a 2-way street, and that he is worthy of true love. I thought the ending of the book was great and was impressed with how perfectly the author brought it all together. I also liked learning that the series will continue, although under new leadership.
I would like to say that if you are skittish of reading this book because it is a MM love story, please give it a try anyway. The intimate scenes are not gratuitous. Rather, they are predominantly about the emotional connection between the characters at different points in the story. But if you don’t want read those pages just skip them, the same way you might skip explicit pages in a traditional MF love story. This book has so much to share about the human spirit, facing adversity, rebuilding oneself, recovering from abuse, coping with consequences when those who should love us hurt us beyond reason, and the redemptive power of forgiveness
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
Benedict Sterling has fought – literally and physically - to be financially independent of his father. For years he has engaged in boxing matches and won a lot of money. Then, setting up the Gentleman Courtesans helped him achieve that goal while simultaneously helping his friends out of tight situations as well; every time a contract with set up for one of his friends with a “keeper,” Ben received a cut of the money for making the arrangements. As we learned in prior books, the London Gossip has been threatening to expose the secrets of the Gentleman Courtesans. Lord Alexander Osborne, the recent Earl of Vautrey, has come back to London determined to win back the love he was forced to abandon 3 years prior. Ben is just as determined not to let Alex back into his life. Alex is stubbornly resolved to do anything necessary to get Ben to listen to what he needs to tell him ... Including hiring him as a courtesan for a month.
This book is a powerhouse of emotion. It is full of gut-wrenching revelations, twists and turns, betrayals and loyalties, cruelty and compassion, intolerance and understanding. Ben’s father is horrible beyond words, as is the London Gossip. By the time we get to the last page, Ben learns that real friendship is a 2-way street, and that he is worthy of true love. I thought the ending of the book was great and was impressed with how perfectly the author brought it all together. I also liked learning that the series will continue, although under new leadership.
I would like to say that if you are skittish of reading this book because it is a MM love story, please give it a try anyway. The intimate scenes are not gratuitous. Rather, they are predominantly about the emotional connection between the characters at different points in the story. But if you don’t want read those pages just skip them, the same way you might skip explicit pages in a traditional MF love story. This book has so much to share about the human spirit, facing adversity, rebuilding oneself, recovering from abuse, coping with consequences when those who should love us hurt us beyond reason, and the redemptive power of forgiveness
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
January 6, 2021
Let me start by saying that this was the most anticipated book VV has ever authored. There is something about the Gentleman Courtesans' [GCs] books that you don't receive in any other historical erotica series, to date. Unless VV keeps adding to it (which was hinted at), or otherwise finds herself copy-catted - I doubt we'll see anything like it, again.
My first recommendation, before immersing yourself in Chasing Benedict [CB], is that you read books 1-4 beforehand. Now, this is spoken as a reader notorious for not sticking to "the order of things" (and in all honesy I skipped Aubrey's story); however, you will gain more context into why this story had to be told, what made it so anticipated, and the loose ends CB neatly tied.
To review - CB is a M/M 2nd chance erotica. Complex, intriguing - the story unmasks both the horrors and beauty of what it means to love someone and see that love questioned, thwarted, all while standing the test of time, distance, betrayal, indifference, and bigotry. In fact, Ben's aggression and fierce possessiveness began to make more sense in the context of the series because of this installment (duh, it is his story, afterall but I digress).
Ben and Alex came alive. Jumping in and stapping up with Ben and Alex on this roller coaster was well worth the ride. In short, Ben is the founder of the GCs and he's been harboring a secret that during his day and time (and even now in many places around the world) could see him ostracized or committed, at best, and executed, at worst. However, these two men knows who they are, what their sexual preference is; its going to take more than a scheming blackmailer, a lousy father, and a hypocritical society to stop them from grasping their second chance with irresistible chemistry, greedy lips, and both hands.
I know many are reticent of MM romances, I'm here to validate that its ok - if it makes you feel better, name them Benina and Alex or Ben and Alexandra; skip the sex scenes... yes, those who are more accepting will cry cop out...I would say instead don't allow discomfort or religious coviction to close your mind to a story that is really all about healing love and unconditional loyalty, what that looks like (no matter who is in love) and deserving healing love and unconditional loyalty to be reciprocated.
I highly recommend this book and rate it 5-stars. It really is a marvel and worth the read.
My first recommendation, before immersing yourself in Chasing Benedict [CB], is that you read books 1-4 beforehand. Now, this is spoken as a reader notorious for not sticking to "the order of things" (and in all honesy I skipped Aubrey's story); however, you will gain more context into why this story had to be told, what made it so anticipated, and the loose ends CB neatly tied.
To review - CB is a M/M 2nd chance erotica. Complex, intriguing - the story unmasks both the horrors and beauty of what it means to love someone and see that love questioned, thwarted, all while standing the test of time, distance, betrayal, indifference, and bigotry. In fact, Ben's aggression and fierce possessiveness began to make more sense in the context of the series because of this installment (duh, it is his story, afterall but I digress).
Ben and Alex came alive. Jumping in and stapping up with Ben and Alex on this roller coaster was well worth the ride. In short, Ben is the founder of the GCs and he's been harboring a secret that during his day and time (and even now in many places around the world) could see him ostracized or committed, at best, and executed, at worst. However, these two men knows who they are, what their sexual preference is; its going to take more than a scheming blackmailer, a lousy father, and a hypocritical society to stop them from grasping their second chance with irresistible chemistry, greedy lips, and both hands.
I know many are reticent of MM romances, I'm here to validate that its ok - if it makes you feel better, name them Benina and Alex or Ben and Alexandra; skip the sex scenes... yes, those who are more accepting will cry cop out...I would say instead don't allow discomfort or religious coviction to close your mind to a story that is really all about healing love and unconditional loyalty, what that looks like (no matter who is in love) and deserving healing love and unconditional loyalty to be reciprocated.
I highly recommend this book and rate it 5-stars. It really is a marvel and worth the read.
January 10, 2021
Full disclosure: I love all of this author’s books, so it’s no surprise that I did this one, though this book is special since it’s the last in the series and that of the strong, stoic leader of the Gentleman Courtesans. Benedict Sterling is arguably the most mature of the courtesans and a shrewd businessman. He also has a deep secret that most of the other courtesans don’t know, that he strives to keep hidden from the ton. Benedict’s former lover, the one who crushed his heart, comes crashing back into Benedict’s life right as the London Gossip threatens to publicly expose the GCs, ruining them and their new families. Alex, preying on Benedict’s need for money to pay off the Gossip, manipulates Benedict into signing a contract to be his courtesan. Duty-bound to save his friends, Benedict has no choice but to agree, despite his anger about Alex’s past betrayal.
After reading about Benedict in all the previous books in the series, it was great fun to finally learn why he is the way he is. The most compelling characters are often those who have undergone the worst traumas; this holds true for Benedict, and it is all treated with depth and sensitivity. We witness as he awakens to his sexual orientation as a young man, and learn about the childhood events that led to him becoming a fighter. Ms. Vale always instills incredible heart and emotion into her characters: we feel Benedict’s pain as he tries to protect his friends, the responsibility weighing heavily on him. We feel how impotent he feels, unable to defeat the London Gossip by himself, and his rage at his conniving, judgmental father. Can Benedict forgive Alex and overcome his independent nature enough to accept his help, or will his heart stay closed off and bitter forever? Watching the drama unfold is delicious. Ms. Vale’s treatment of the risks and stresses for gay men at the time are sensitive and delicate, and the emotional detail of Alex and Benedict’s affection for each other is rich. We also get glimpses of the other courtesans and their partners again, which is fun. This found family and the deep affection and loyalty they have for each other has been a delight to read about, from start to finish. Another wonderful novel by Ms. Vale and a worthy conclusion to the series. Now we need a continuation series with Warin Lyons and his new brood of courtesans…
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
After reading about Benedict in all the previous books in the series, it was great fun to finally learn why he is the way he is. The most compelling characters are often those who have undergone the worst traumas; this holds true for Benedict, and it is all treated with depth and sensitivity. We witness as he awakens to his sexual orientation as a young man, and learn about the childhood events that led to him becoming a fighter. Ms. Vale always instills incredible heart and emotion into her characters: we feel Benedict’s pain as he tries to protect his friends, the responsibility weighing heavily on him. We feel how impotent he feels, unable to defeat the London Gossip by himself, and his rage at his conniving, judgmental father. Can Benedict forgive Alex and overcome his independent nature enough to accept his help, or will his heart stay closed off and bitter forever? Watching the drama unfold is delicious. Ms. Vale’s treatment of the risks and stresses for gay men at the time are sensitive and delicate, and the emotional detail of Alex and Benedict’s affection for each other is rich. We also get glimpses of the other courtesans and their partners again, which is fun. This found family and the deep affection and loyalty they have for each other has been a delight to read about, from start to finish. Another wonderful novel by Ms. Vale and a worthy conclusion to the series. Now we need a continuation series with Warin Lyons and his new brood of courtesans…
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2020
Chasing Benedict is the fifth book in The Gentleman Courtesans series by Victoria Vale. It can be read as a standalone story but as we catch up with the characters from the previous books it wouldn't hurt to read the other books first.
In the previous books we read about Ben's secret Gentleman Courtesans agency. Amongst others he hires his friends when they are in need of cash and he pairs them with women looking for love/sex who he thinks they will be perfectly matched with. As for himself, he takes care of the men looking for male courtesans.
We find out in this book about Ben's background. He had his heart broken by Alex, a man he was supposed to run away with but who he believes betrayed him at the last minute. There is much more to what happened to make Alex leave him and marry a woman. Sadly that woman passed away but now that he is free to, Alex wants to finally explain to Ben what happened. He has always loved him and wants to spend the rest of his days with him. First of all he has a lot of explaining to do. The problem is that Ben has closed his heart and refuses to listen. Alex needs to get him to at least agree to listen to him.
Alongside his attempts to get Ben to forgive him and to prove that he never stopped loving him there was other drama to be had in this story. A vindictive London gossip knows all about Ben's courtesans and she also figured out that Ben is gay. She threatens to publish all the information in her gossip paper. He needs to find out just why she is so vengeful towards him, plus stop her from publishing what she knows.
This was a truly moving story with a lot of truths being exposed, some which made me cry. Ben's father was rotten in his past and is still equally bad. He is one character that I defintely would't shed a tear over.
The intimate scenes between Ben and Alex were perfect. Although very descriptive and steamy, the author still managed to make the story very romantic and I defintely didn't feel as if I was reading a book that used sex scenes just to sell the books. This was a wonderful feel good story that had the perfect ending. I enjoyed every minute of it and as long as you aren't against MM stories then I am sure you will love this one. It was wonderful finding out Ben's story and seeing him get the happy ending he very much deserved.
In the previous books we read about Ben's secret Gentleman Courtesans agency. Amongst others he hires his friends when they are in need of cash and he pairs them with women looking for love/sex who he thinks they will be perfectly matched with. As for himself, he takes care of the men looking for male courtesans.
We find out in this book about Ben's background. He had his heart broken by Alex, a man he was supposed to run away with but who he believes betrayed him at the last minute. There is much more to what happened to make Alex leave him and marry a woman. Sadly that woman passed away but now that he is free to, Alex wants to finally explain to Ben what happened. He has always loved him and wants to spend the rest of his days with him. First of all he has a lot of explaining to do. The problem is that Ben has closed his heart and refuses to listen. Alex needs to get him to at least agree to listen to him.
Alongside his attempts to get Ben to forgive him and to prove that he never stopped loving him there was other drama to be had in this story. A vindictive London gossip knows all about Ben's courtesans and she also figured out that Ben is gay. She threatens to publish all the information in her gossip paper. He needs to find out just why she is so vengeful towards him, plus stop her from publishing what she knows.
This was a truly moving story with a lot of truths being exposed, some which made me cry. Ben's father was rotten in his past and is still equally bad. He is one character that I defintely would't shed a tear over.
The intimate scenes between Ben and Alex were perfect. Although very descriptive and steamy, the author still managed to make the story very romantic and I defintely didn't feel as if I was reading a book that used sex scenes just to sell the books. This was a wonderful feel good story that had the perfect ending. I enjoyed every minute of it and as long as you aren't against MM stories then I am sure you will love this one. It was wonderful finding out Ben's story and seeing him get the happy ending he very much deserved.
December 20, 2020
Chasing Benedict by Victoria Vale
*CONTAINS SPOILERS*
The book about Benedict opens at Eton college, and we get an eye opening view of young Ben’s life, before friendship was within view and only pain and neglect was a feature of his life! I seriously felt so sad for that young boy, left alone and friendless at a school which caters to families with money, I wanted to hug him so bad!
After a gruelling episode from the boys in his dorm, Benedict starts to fight back and starts the slow path of becoming the character and man we readers has come to know through five books so far. It’s fairly easy to see that Benedict is special, and thankfully a new boy; Alex recognise this special side of Benedict and becomes friends.
From there, I knew there was only one way this could end, namely in HEA!
But no, more drama ensued, especially the problem of the London Gossip and why she is out with her claws, and so set against the courtesans and Benedict, especially.
A certain flashback or episode of Ben’s life drew direct tears from me and made my stomach recoil in horror and sympathy for our hero. For hero, Benedict surely is! After surviving a life worse than death, with torture, threats and more than I can or care to mention, he is a true hero, - a hero who kept a tender heart locked so far away that it survived until the right time. Another problem was the Viscount Sterling, Benedict’s father, - I wanted to hit him rather badly from page 1! How can a parent, even back then, act as he did to poor Ben, a child! Yes, as you can read I’m sympathetic to Ben and horrified at the acts performed against him!
But as always Mistress Vale made a story which was brutally honest, funny, sexy and cute as well, and besides a bit embarrassment from my own side reading of two men, well the naughty scenes was fantastic! The descriptions were beyond gorgeous, and had that yummy edge which characterise Mistress Vale’s books!
And last but not least, the ending scenes the Gentlemen Courtesans unite against the London Gossip and Viscount Sterling, and let’s just say that drama ensues, but brings about the ending we all desired.
*CONTAINS SPOILERS*
The book about Benedict opens at Eton college, and we get an eye opening view of young Ben’s life, before friendship was within view and only pain and neglect was a feature of his life! I seriously felt so sad for that young boy, left alone and friendless at a school which caters to families with money, I wanted to hug him so bad!
After a gruelling episode from the boys in his dorm, Benedict starts to fight back and starts the slow path of becoming the character and man we readers has come to know through five books so far. It’s fairly easy to see that Benedict is special, and thankfully a new boy; Alex recognise this special side of Benedict and becomes friends.
From there, I knew there was only one way this could end, namely in HEA!
But no, more drama ensued, especially the problem of the London Gossip and why she is out with her claws, and so set against the courtesans and Benedict, especially.
A certain flashback or episode of Ben’s life drew direct tears from me and made my stomach recoil in horror and sympathy for our hero. For hero, Benedict surely is! After surviving a life worse than death, with torture, threats and more than I can or care to mention, he is a true hero, - a hero who kept a tender heart locked so far away that it survived until the right time. Another problem was the Viscount Sterling, Benedict’s father, - I wanted to hit him rather badly from page 1! How can a parent, even back then, act as he did to poor Ben, a child! Yes, as you can read I’m sympathetic to Ben and horrified at the acts performed against him!
But as always Mistress Vale made a story which was brutally honest, funny, sexy and cute as well, and besides a bit embarrassment from my own side reading of two men, well the naughty scenes was fantastic! The descriptions were beyond gorgeous, and had that yummy edge which characterise Mistress Vale’s books!
And last but not least, the ending scenes the Gentlemen Courtesans unite against the London Gossip and Viscount Sterling, and let’s just say that drama ensues, but brings about the ending we all desired.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2020
Starring Mr. Benedict Stirling and Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautry.
Tropes: M/M and second chances.
Oh Em F’n Gee!!!!! I am a blubbering, ugly crying af, hot mess!!! Yassss!! I’ve been waiting, waiting, waiting for Benedict’s book.... and it’s sooooo goooooood!!! So good, in fact, that after I read it, I basked in the afterglow of my book hangover for a second, then turned around and re-read it AGAIN!! And totally ugly cried af.... AGAIN!! This book is so beautiful that if Victoria Vale wasn’t already on my keeper shelf, this would have catapulted her on the top self. So much feels!!!
Benedict is so full of angst.... he goes beyond being a moody and broody hero. His father’s methods and threats of trying to make him “normal” and Alex’s betrayal have left him downright angry with the world. Outward he is confident and self assured, but inside he is broken... and my heart totally shattered for him. (I can’t believe I’m crying as I write this) Out of all Victoria Vale’s heroes, Benedict will be my all time favorite. He truly was magnificent.
Alex is such a bi-polar opposite of Benedict. He isn’t without his share of angst, but his views on things are a little different. He is as flamboyant as the clothes he wears. He is also tenacious when it comes to winning Benedict back.... the longing stares he was always directing at Benedict gave me all the feely-feels. Totally loved him!!
Together Alex and Benedict have to sort a lot of painful baggage to get to their HEA. But once these two open up to each other, their healing is very beautiful. I am so in love with these two... one of my favorite couples of 2020!!!
Victoria Vale is a brilliant story teller. I love getting lost in her would. I will gobble up anything she writes. An absolutely amazing author!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My star rating: 5 stars
Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were freaken amazeballs. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will definitely be re-reading this story over and over and over again!!
Tropes: M/M and second chances.
Oh Em F’n Gee!!!!! I am a blubbering, ugly crying af, hot mess!!! Yassss!! I’ve been waiting, waiting, waiting for Benedict’s book.... and it’s sooooo goooooood!!! So good, in fact, that after I read it, I basked in the afterglow of my book hangover for a second, then turned around and re-read it AGAIN!! And totally ugly cried af.... AGAIN!! This book is so beautiful that if Victoria Vale wasn’t already on my keeper shelf, this would have catapulted her on the top self. So much feels!!!
Benedict is so full of angst.... he goes beyond being a moody and broody hero. His father’s methods and threats of trying to make him “normal” and Alex’s betrayal have left him downright angry with the world. Outward he is confident and self assured, but inside he is broken... and my heart totally shattered for him. (I can’t believe I’m crying as I write this) Out of all Victoria Vale’s heroes, Benedict will be my all time favorite. He truly was magnificent.
Alex is such a bi-polar opposite of Benedict. He isn’t without his share of angst, but his views on things are a little different. He is as flamboyant as the clothes he wears. He is also tenacious when it comes to winning Benedict back.... the longing stares he was always directing at Benedict gave me all the feely-feels. Totally loved him!!
Together Alex and Benedict have to sort a lot of painful baggage to get to their HEA. But once these two open up to each other, their healing is very beautiful. I am so in love with these two... one of my favorite couples of 2020!!!
Victoria Vale is a brilliant story teller. I love getting lost in her would. I will gobble up anything she writes. An absolutely amazing author!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My star rating: 5 stars
Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were freaken amazeballs. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will definitely be re-reading this story over and over and over again!!
March 8, 2021
Awesome read
I choice the 5 stars because this book is awesome. The characters are so real. You feel like you are reading about friends. The author draws you into the story. I would recommend this book to all of my reader friends. Just beware..once you start reading you won't want to put it down.
I choice the 5 stars because this book is awesome. The characters are so real. You feel like you are reading about friends. The author draws you into the story. I would recommend this book to all of my reader friends. Just beware..once you start reading you won't want to put it down.
December 20, 2020
Chasing Benedict
(The Gentlemen Courtesans #5)
Written by: Victoria Vale
It’s taken four Gentlemen Courtesans to get us here and here is where you want to be as Ben’s life unfolds before our eyes and hearts.
Victoria Vale as always, uses her ability to take words and mold them into visual pictures that run through our minds as we read. Benedict Sterling and Alex, Lord Vautrey’s story comes to life through her words, her sentences and her vibrant descriptions. From their boyhoods at Eaton to a dinner party at Vautrey’s Kent estate, we can visualize and feel what these two went through, not just to mend their hearts, not just to reveal their truths but to clear a way for them to heal and finally be together.
Every lie is unveiled, every fight explained, every nightmare revealed and that’s just Ben’s home life with his father! Both men are hiding things from each other, both men not truly knowing what occurred that dark, grey foggy night in Dover, both men having built not walls but walls of steel that could prove to be unmovable.
The sex scenes are scorching hot! If heat bothers you please make sure you have a fan to cool yourself down while reading. The fight scenes have you sitting at the edge of your seat and when the walls do begin to break down, make sure you have tissues at hand.
For me, this was a magnificent series that led to this epic story and ending!
I have read almost everything Victoria Vale has written, but this story, this couple, this series by far rank number one for me. It’s a shame I only have five stars to give because it deserves so many more.
(The Gentlemen Courtesans #5)
Written by: Victoria Vale
It’s taken four Gentlemen Courtesans to get us here and here is where you want to be as Ben’s life unfolds before our eyes and hearts.
Victoria Vale as always, uses her ability to take words and mold them into visual pictures that run through our minds as we read. Benedict Sterling and Alex, Lord Vautrey’s story comes to life through her words, her sentences and her vibrant descriptions. From their boyhoods at Eaton to a dinner party at Vautrey’s Kent estate, we can visualize and feel what these two went through, not just to mend their hearts, not just to reveal their truths but to clear a way for them to heal and finally be together.
Every lie is unveiled, every fight explained, every nightmare revealed and that’s just Ben’s home life with his father! Both men are hiding things from each other, both men not truly knowing what occurred that dark, grey foggy night in Dover, both men having built not walls but walls of steel that could prove to be unmovable.
The sex scenes are scorching hot! If heat bothers you please make sure you have a fan to cool yourself down while reading. The fight scenes have you sitting at the edge of your seat and when the walls do begin to break down, make sure you have tissues at hand.
For me, this was a magnificent series that led to this epic story and ending!
I have read almost everything Victoria Vale has written, but this story, this couple, this series by far rank number one for me. It’s a shame I only have five stars to give because it deserves so many more.
January 15, 2021
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone; but the last of a series; it is best enjoyed after reading the prior books
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me
This is not anywhere near my normal or preferred reading troupe (m/m). However, I went into it knowing what I was reading and mostly because I wanted to see the ending of the story arc that developed throughout the series. Will I ever read another same sex romance? Probably not; it’s just not for me.
The intimacy between the two leads – which I will fully admit that I skimmed/skipped over – was what I expected from this author – steamy but not graphic and crude. The story was beautiful and funny; however, it left me a little sad as I’ve read all of the books in this series and loved all of the characters and with this book, I have to tell them goodbye. She has made them a beautiful family of differences that love each other knowing of these differences.
That said, the writing and the story was exactly what I’ve come to expect from this author. She knows her history and she does her research and she brings these characters and situations to life. She is a gifted wordsmith (a talent I envy). She took an idea, the courtesan, and gave it a twist and presented it to the world. This is a series I recommend to anyone looking for something different…something with a twist.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone; but the last of a series; it is best enjoyed after reading the prior books
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me
This is not anywhere near my normal or preferred reading troupe (m/m). However, I went into it knowing what I was reading and mostly because I wanted to see the ending of the story arc that developed throughout the series. Will I ever read another same sex romance? Probably not; it’s just not for me.
The intimacy between the two leads – which I will fully admit that I skimmed/skipped over – was what I expected from this author – steamy but not graphic and crude. The story was beautiful and funny; however, it left me a little sad as I’ve read all of the books in this series and loved all of the characters and with this book, I have to tell them goodbye. She has made them a beautiful family of differences that love each other knowing of these differences.
That said, the writing and the story was exactly what I’ve come to expect from this author. She knows her history and she does her research and she brings these characters and situations to life. She is a gifted wordsmith (a talent I envy). She took an idea, the courtesan, and gave it a twist and presented it to the world. This is a series I recommend to anyone looking for something different…something with a twist.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2021
Chasing Benedict, by Victoria Vale. Victoria did a wonderful job with this book. I was instantly swept away into Benedict and Alex’s world. I found the love story very easy to read, which I definitely loved. The entertainment without a doubt was outstanding. I need to applaud Victoria for this.
The characters, I could not help but love them all. The description of each character was heartwarming and very genuine. Most of them are described with respect and compassion towards their two good friends, Benedict and Alex. The dialogue among the characters, I need to give an A plus. The characters conversations for me was easy to follow. Not one time did I get lost in a conversation. The dialogue was simple and yet the words were impactful to the storyline. The romance and the steamy love scenes are sublime. The given details of these scenes are illicit, sensual and oh so naughty. The passion and the love between Benedict and Alex was on fire. Oh my gosh. These two have stolen my heart. I found their love to be realistic, compassionate and heartwarming. Reading their story I found it very genuine. Alex loved Benedict so much. Alex could be my bff. He just wouldn’t go away. He new what he wanted and he protects what is his. Benedict, my little sweetheart. I want to just fold him up. Stick him in my pocket and carry him home. I recommend this book with two snaps and a, “Simmons, could show my father to the door. He’s worn out his welcome”. Until next time my fellow readers... read on. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily
The characters, I could not help but love them all. The description of each character was heartwarming and very genuine. Most of them are described with respect and compassion towards their two good friends, Benedict and Alex. The dialogue among the characters, I need to give an A plus. The characters conversations for me was easy to follow. Not one time did I get lost in a conversation. The dialogue was simple and yet the words were impactful to the storyline. The romance and the steamy love scenes are sublime. The given details of these scenes are illicit, sensual and oh so naughty. The passion and the love between Benedict and Alex was on fire. Oh my gosh. These two have stolen my heart. I found their love to be realistic, compassionate and heartwarming. Reading their story I found it very genuine. Alex loved Benedict so much. Alex could be my bff. He just wouldn’t go away. He new what he wanted and he protects what is his. Benedict, my little sweetheart. I want to just fold him up. Stick him in my pocket and carry him home. I recommend this book with two snaps and a, “Simmons, could show my father to the door. He’s worn out his welcome”. Until next time my fellow readers... read on. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily
December 20, 2020
Benedict Sterling founded The Gentleman Courtesans agency to assure financial security for himself and his friends. Unfortunately, the efforts of a spiteful gossip-column writer, threaten to expose all of his secrets. With everyone he cares about in the path of his enemy, he is determined to silence The London Gossip once and for all. But when a lover from his past returns seeking to make amends, Benedict is left grappling with the pain of his past as well as his present dilemma.
Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautrey, has returned to London with a singular goal—win back the man he loves. Unfortunately, their previous separation has made Benedict resistant to ever allow Alex into his life again. He’ll do anything to win the other man’s heart—including accept the terms of a contract that will temporarily set Benedict up as his courtesan.
This is the fifth book in the series & I’ve been waiting for Ben’s story from book 1. Oh my! it not only lived up to my expectations but surpassed them. A beautifully written second chance romance, with also a mystery to solve. I was totally drawn in from page one & taken on a roller coaster of emotions throughout the book. I’ve loved the tormented Ben throughout the series & his journey to a HEA was enthralling. Alex was a revelation as I didn’t warm to him to begin with but my opinion changed as his reasons for acting as he did were revealed. An unputdownable read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautrey, has returned to London with a singular goal—win back the man he loves. Unfortunately, their previous separation has made Benedict resistant to ever allow Alex into his life again. He’ll do anything to win the other man’s heart—including accept the terms of a contract that will temporarily set Benedict up as his courtesan.
This is the fifth book in the series & I’ve been waiting for Ben’s story from book 1. Oh my! it not only lived up to my expectations but surpassed them. A beautifully written second chance romance, with also a mystery to solve. I was totally drawn in from page one & taken on a roller coaster of emotions throughout the book. I’ve loved the tormented Ben throughout the series & his journey to a HEA was enthralling. Alex was a revelation as I didn’t warm to him to begin with but my opinion changed as his reasons for acting as he did were revealed. An unputdownable read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 22, 2020
The Academy Award For Best M/M Book of 2020: Chasing Benedict by Victoria Vale
The Academy Award for Best Writer of an M/M romance: Ms. Victoria Vale for Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Book of 2020: Chasing Benedict by Victoria Vale
The Academy Award for Best Male Character in an M/M Romance: Benedict Sterling in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Supporting Male Character in an M/M Romance: Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautrey in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Male Evil Character in an M/M Romance: Viscount Malcolm Sterling in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Female Character in an M/M Romance: Lady Celeste Browning, Dowager Countess of Langford in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Supporting Female Character in an M/M Romance: Lady Agatha Sterling in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Female Evil Character in an M/M romance: Miss Cynthia Milbank in Chasing Benedict
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Haunting
Happily Ever After
Inspirational
Page-turner
Realistic
Steamy
Tragic
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
The Academy Award for Best Writer of an M/M romance: Ms. Victoria Vale for Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Book of 2020: Chasing Benedict by Victoria Vale
The Academy Award for Best Male Character in an M/M Romance: Benedict Sterling in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Supporting Male Character in an M/M Romance: Lord Alexander Osborne, Earl of Vautrey in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Male Evil Character in an M/M Romance: Viscount Malcolm Sterling in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Female Character in an M/M Romance: Lady Celeste Browning, Dowager Countess of Langford in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Supporting Female Character in an M/M Romance: Lady Agatha Sterling in Chasing Benedict
The Academy Award for Best Female Evil Character in an M/M romance: Miss Cynthia Milbank in Chasing Benedict
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Haunting
Happily Ever After
Inspirational
Page-turner
Realistic
Steamy
Tragic
Twisted
Unpredictable
Wonderful characters
December 25, 2020
OMG, this book is the climax of the entire series!!! If you started at the beginning then you know Benedict is the one that started the 'Gentle Courtesans' to give himself and his friends' financial freedom. Not only has the business become quite successful but the courtesans themselves have found very desirable wives within the ton. There's just one fly in the works and that's the spiteful woman who called The London Gossip. She's bound and determined to financially and socially ruin Benedict and doesn't care whom she takes down along the way. Alex has known Benedict since they were at Eaton. They became friends and then lovers. Plans for eventually made for a future and then there weren't, with no explanation on either part. The hell these two have gone through, the emotional and physical drama and drain they've been put through about broke my heart but through it all, deep down, their love was solid. But isn't that what happens with fated mates. This was the best of the series up to date without a doubt. I can't wait to see where Victoria Vale takes us on the new set of courtesans we've been teased with.
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