Opposites attract and sparks fly, but can they be contained?
Member of Parliament, Edward Archibald, lives in constant fear of being discovered as a gay man and having his life ruined because of it. He has avoided scandal in every way possible…until his brother runs off with a married duchess and kidnaps Lord Selby’s son and heir. As Selby's friend, Edward is called on to help with the investigation by contacting his brother. There’s just one small problem: The mission means he’s been thrown into close quarters with the object of his desire, actor Martin Piper.
Martin Piper loves life and isn’t afraid to enjoy it to the fullest. He can’t help but draw attention to himself in everything he does, particularly when he’s paired with stodgy politician, Edward, as they work to reunite Lord Selby and his son. But Martin can only pay attention to one thing—his fascination with and desire for Edward. He adores the man at first sight and relishes the opportunity to crack Edward’s shell to get to the sensuality he knows Edward is capable of.
But their mission veers wildly off-course and seems destined to fail, especially when their conflicting ideas about desire and discretion prove how different they are. Can they overcome their differences to complete their mission and enjoy an epic love story, or will passion drive them apart?
A tender and heartfelt gay historical romance.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Steam level – very spicy! And yes, this is an m/m romance involving friends to lovers, second chances, and a single father, so if that’s not your thing, feel free to pass on this one.
USA 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.
As a Member of Parliament, Edward Archibald does everything he can to avoid scandal and prevent bringing notice to himself. He is especially afraid of having his inclinations discovered. His name has remained untainted by any scandal until his brother runs off with his mistress, a married duchess, and kidnaps the duke’s son in the process. As a member of the Brotherhood and someone the duke can trust, Edward is enlisted to help by trying to contact and locate his wayward brother. Edward is happy to help but also terrified since this endeavor means he’ll be thrown into close quarters with Martin Piper, the actor he fancies.
Martin Piper is known for his affability and seeks to enjoy life to the fullest. His constant smiles combined with his clumsiness mean he always draws attention, frustrating the uptight politician. Though he knows the mission, Martin can’t help but set an additional goal for himself, to bring Edward out of his shell and address the immediate attraction he feels. But with their original mission going haywire and their polar opposite views on love and desire, this mismatched pair may be driven apart by the very mission that brought them together.
I think this is my favorite of the series so far. Edward’s fears and crushing anxieties were frustrating, but oh so relatable. I loved that these two both had insecurities to work through and that made them endearing. The fact they each had to work through some personal issues to make a viable relationship, despite their nearly immediate and strong feelings for one another, made them a believable pair that I could root for. We also are finally making some progress in recovering Blake’s son that will hopefully continue toward resolution in the next book and I’m enjoying all the staunch friendships which were so prominently on display here.
This was such a lovely book. Edward and Martin were so beautiful in their growth from individual insecurities to the very fun and loving relationship they had. And that epilogue? Definitely going to read more of Merry Farmer now
ADULT Historical Victorian M/M Romance and Adventure. Blake, The Duke of Selby, is still trying to recover his son and heir, kidnapped and held for ransom by his estranged wife and her lover, Ian Archibald.
Ian's brother is Edward, a member of parliament and a tightly closeted gay man. He is despised by his parents as a coward, a disappointment and a milktoast even though they don't even know he is gay!
He has always been afraid to have a relationship with another man, afraid he will be exposed, ruined in society and politics, and even jailed, since sodomy is 🚫illegal.
Edward furtively frequents gay haunts for anonymous quickies, not realizing this is even more dangerous. It leaves him open to violence and robbery, as well as blackmail!
He loves the theatre and one actor in particular, Martin, a comedic actor in Niall 's newest play, and he is also a gay man who is fairly open about it. Martin's feeling is that no one really cares.
He has had his eye on Edward for some time but hasn't acted on it. Edward is a member of the Brotherhood and frequents the Chameleon Club, and he longs for but is afraid to seek out a real relationship with another man. The two men are thrown together by The leaders of the Brotherhood, and sent on a mission to find Edward's brother Ian, who is hiding out somewhere with Blake's wife and son. He is also demanding a missing Egyptian artifact as part of the ransom.
ARC Provided by Bookfunnel 🌀 I also got this ebook with KU.
Edward is so uptight, so afraid of being discovered to be gay, I had a hard time enjoying the book. He and Martin are almost opposites. Martin is a man comfortable with himself, he is outgoing, charming, and witty, everything Edward is not.
The book is very interesting, with a well written who dunit going on at the same time as the 💘love story between Edward and Martin.
Another amazing story of the Brotherhood, an underground organization dedicated to helping the gay community. Edward Archibald and Martin Piper couldn't be more opposite - Edward is uptight, cautious and almost paralyzed with fear that he will be found out, while Martin is carefree, flamboyant and quite comfortable with who and what he is. Despite these differences they have two things in common - they both have huge insecurities and they are drawn to each other like no others. This book is a continuation of an ongoing story, but could be read as a standalone as the past story lines are well explained here. Very enjoyable read.
I liked the story of Edward and Martin very much. It was humorous and sexy beyond belief. Merry Farmer has done it again and I look forward to the next book in this series.
“Don’t let others box you into their idea of what they think you should be. A confined identity is a miserable way to exist...Trust that in living true to yourself, you will attract people that support and love you, just as you are.” ~ Jaeda deWalt
Martin Piper, of ‘Just a Little Madness’ by Merry Farmer, ‘saves’ Edward Archibald, from an embarrassing and potentially career-ending situation. Edward is eternally grateful to the actor, whom he already admires after attending several plays in which he has acted. When he and Martin ‘team up’ to find a missing medallion, it thrusts Edward into inner turmoil.
The trip to recover the medallion involves a visit to Edward’s parents to discover if they know where Edward’s brother is. Edward has told Martin how badly his parents treat him and how, although he tries his best, they are never satisfied. Even though it was his brother, Ian, who ran away with another man’s wife, he is treated with the same disdain, as if he were an embarrassment. This visit allows Martin to observe this travesty firsthand.
At a dreadful dinner party given by his parents, Edward is debased and embarrassed by his father and ignored by the other people there. Martin’s effort to console him involves Edward giving in to his ‘base’ desires by letting Martin comfort and satisfy him. Unfortunately, they are interrupted by a maid. After that, they decide it would be best to leave. On the way back, Edward’s pocket is picked at the train station. Martin sees a man who he suspects is a private investigator, and who he surmises is working for Ian. Martin doesn’t mention it to Edward even when he concludes that the detective is the one who stole Edward’s wallet. When Edward discovers that Martin didn’t tell him about the man, who later accosts Edward wanting the medallion, he is furious. And, when Edward finds out that Martin has had the medallion in his pocket for some time, it adds insult to injury. They have an awful fight about it. The ‘honeymoon phase’ of what could have been a relationship seems to be over almost before it has begun.
Merry has a way with words that makes the time period in this series come to life. Her descriptions, not only of the customs and costumes of the stories but also of the mentality of the era, jump right off the pages. Edward and Martin are another opposites-attract couple that only come together when they learn to compromise and overcome the set-in-their-ways parts of their characters. Thanks, Merry. This is a welcome and enjoyable addition to the ‘Brotherhood’ series.
Edward Archibald MP, lives in constant fear of being discovered as a gay man and having his life ruined because of it. He has avoided scandal in every way possible…until his brother runs off with a married duchess and kidnaps Lord Selby’s son and heir. As Selby's friend, Edward is called on to help with the investigation by contacting his brother. There’s just one small problem: The mission means he’s been thrown into close quarters with the object of his desire, actor Martin Piper. Martin Piper loves life and isn’t afraid to enjoy it to the fullest. He can’t help but draw attention to himself in everything he does, particularly when he’s paired with stodgy politician, Edward, as they work to reunite Lord Selby and his son. But Martin can only pay attention to one thing—his fascination with and desire for Edward. He adores the man at first sight and relishes the opportunity to crack Edward’s shell to get to the sensuality he knows Edward is capable of. This wonderful series goes from strength to strength, sensitively written with believable strong characters & a story that never lags. I just loved the clumsy Martin who wanted someone to believe he was intelligent & the upright, until he wasn’t, Edward who wanted to be loved. Together they brought out the best in each other & the chemistry between them was electric, my heart bled for how Edward had suffered with his despicable parents & I applauded him for finding his confidence. Martin’s antics often had me smiling but it was his clumsiness that had me laughing out loud. Some things are solved but others are yet to be resolved which means I can’t wait for the next book My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I loved Just a Little Madness by Merry Farmer. It's the seventh book in the Brotherhood series, but the first book that I have read in the series and the first book I read by this author. This book focuses on Edward and Martin. Edward is a member of parliament, and Martin is an actor. Edward has never had a relationship and is sexually inexperienced except for some mutual hand jobs. His guilty pleasure is going to the theater and watching Martin perform. He's seen the current production six times already. However, with his job and upbringing, he is ashamed of what he wants and is afraid of being caught by his peers. Martin is the exact opposite of Edward. He is happy, bold, can win over anyone, and has lots of experience. He also goes after what he wants, and he wants Edward. So when they are thrown together to find a missing medallion so that another member of the brotherhood can get back his son that his wife had taken when she ran away with her lover, who just so happens to be Edward's brother, Ian, Martin gets the chance to win Edward over and convince him he is worthy of being loved. I loved watching Martin pull Edward out of his shell and get him to accept himself and realize that nobody is paying attention to who he is spending time with. I look forward to the next book in the series, Just a Little Gamble, to find out what happens in the hunt for Annamarie, Alan, and Ian.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One thing never changes, the hope of a child to be loved! I recently wrote a poem on this, as that was true in my case, I would go to hell and back if my father would just see me. One is prepared to change who you are, what you are and what you perceive it would take for your parents to just show you some manner of respect and only a bit of pride. Unfortunately the opposite is most likely to be true, you later become so blunted and dull, that you are not only, not what they perceive as doing good but because you have become so sick of yourself that you think everyone sees you as they do. But there is one thing that is true, true love won't care, you can be a chimney sweep or work with garbage, but if you are loved who cares. The opposite is also true, you can be as bright as a star, but if people perceive you as dumb or not quite there, you can shout your I.Q. from the rooftop and nobody would care, only someone that truely loves you, would see you for what you truly are. Love, see all, believes all, stand by you in good times and bad, but most of all will do anything for you. Thanks for reminding us of this traits...
Just when you think this is going to be the last in an exceptionally entertaining series, Merry Farmer throws hints that it ain't over yet, buddy. This one takes a while to get to that point but along the way it's another rip-roaring romance and chase through various parts of London and other English subcultures.
This time it brings together Edward Archibald (on the cover), whose brother Ian ran off with the wife of Blake Williamson, kidnapping the latter's young children along the way. After returning two of the children, Ian is still on the loose demanding a ransom (interesting terms) and the very provate and deeply closeted Edward is drawn into the melee.
Accompanying Edward is Martin Piper, an actor who first appeared in the previous book and whose acquaintance with Edward was spurred by a desperate move by the latter to seek sexual gratification in a dangerous way--from which Martin saves him. But Martin also falls instantly in love with Edward who is also attracted but cannot seem to get his head out of his nether regions to come to his senses about his preferences.
There are a lot of disheartening scenes in this book concerning poor Edward, but they are a logical set-up for what eventually turns out to be a wild goose chase on the part of most everyone involved. But at least we get a HFN segue into the next chapter (Just a Little Gamble), whenever that comes out.
I have been reading Merry Farmer’s books for a while now and this series has to be my favorite of hers. Regency romance was the main romance type that I read for a long time but the last few years I’ve gotten more and more into mm romance. When Ms.Farmer said that she was going to combine the two I was over the moon excited as I knew the quality of her work. Well she has surpassed herself and with each new book she draws me further into the world of The Brotherhood and the men in these stories. With each book in this series she develops the story of the men in this group and the troubles that they go through to find and keep love. Every time I think that the stories will be wrapping up and I have the mysteries solved the bad people get away and more show up. And then there are the bad guys who are not bad? Maybe? It’s so delicious to read. If you want to read quality mm historical romance/adventure/mystery then I cannot recommend this series highly enough. Ten stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really love this series, and how characters related to characters from prior books become players in later romances. This time it's the brother of the lover of the estranged wife of Lord Selby (who is still trying to retrieve his kidnapped son). If that seems confusing, it's why these books need to be read in order. Otherwise, you won't get the full flavor of The Brotherhood and what's going on. Although I love this series and the historical setting, I didn't like this particular book as well as some of the others. I found Martin rather annoying in the way he treated Edward. Not everyone wants to throw all caution to the wind, and I felt Martin was a bit too nonchalant in expecting Edward to embrace his (Martin's) idea of freedom. The risks were real, and Martin didn't seem to appreciate Edward's concerns. I think a couple needs to respect each other's opinions and concerns for their love to last. So, a big thumbs up for the series, but not so much this couple.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Edward Archibald is a member of Parliament and has a fear of being discovered as gay. Avoiding sandal is never easy and having all you've built crash before you, can be devastating. Turns out, it isn't his sexuality that creates chaos in his life. It's his brother. As if things weren't timid enough, he is required to work alongside his desire, Martin Piper.
Martin Piper has an outgoing personality. The opposite of Edward. Turns out, Edward wasn't the only one harboring a crush. Breaking Edward's stoic shell - he'll need all the help he can get.
Personal views get in the way. Edward has to visit his parents in hopes they may know where Ian is. All the while, he fights against the machinations of Martin. Managing their mission is a bit on the rocky side. The desires, lust, and mutual love may help them through this ordeal.
Merry Farmer has a way of pulling you in to her Brotherhood historical novels.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
This is fast-paced, dramatic and entertaining and it continues the story of the missing Lord Stanley. Edward is Ian's brother, and an acquaintance of Blake's. John sends him and Martin, the up and coming actor, to find the medallion that Ian is demanding in return for Blake's son, Lord Stanley. A search of props at a theater in Liverpool is required, and Martin worked at the theater years before. Edward is being sent to see his parents, who live near Liverpool, to find out if they know where Ian is. Martin's been flirting with Edward since they met, while Edward gets angry and embarrassed. Edward is too afraid of getting caught with a man to be comfortable with Martin's antics, but he becomes more interested in finding out just what Martin is offering. Edward is a clumsy but charming man. Edward is very proper but lonely. A few twists are revealed, and another couple is made. I love this series, but I really want to find out what is going on. I can't wait to read the next book.
The search is still on for Blake’s (book 6) son Alen, soon to be ex-wife and her lover Ian Archibald. This is Edwards story who is Ian’s brother who is ruled by fear, virgin, and full of self doubt/unloved. He’s a member of Parliament or MP as it’s constantly started in this story. He’s always afraid someone is watching him at everything he does, how he acts, dress, or just living day to day. Then we find out his Other Shoe (it’s a nickname) is someone who is a complete opposite of Edward. Martin is an actors for Neil’s play, co star next to Everett. Martin is always smiling, head up, enjoying life and the good people in it. Flirts with both sex’s and a line of ex lover’s turned friends and not giving two poops of what others think of him. Martin and Edward are thrown together for a journey to find out where Ian is hiding with his lover and her son, so Blake and be reunited with his boy. But what would be the product of a fear stricken MP and his opposite on a mission... Will these two just never mix like oil and water or will they have their bad times mixed with their good??
Every new book in The Brotherhood series amazes me. When I do not think it can be better than the previous books, Merry amazes with the depth of the characters and emotions. I loved how Edward was hesitant to explore his feelings (going as far as to meet anonymous men for quickies) all because he never thought he was good enough especially in his parents eyes (they are bad parents). He is one of the saddest characters I have read in a long time. Along comes Martin who is vivacious and fun-loving but what is he hiding? Merry gives these men personalities that will hold you to their stories. There is an ongoing mystery and we still don’t have the answer. Anxiously waiting to see the endgame of Ian and the Black Widow.
After years of being made to feel worthless by his parents, it is great to see Edward finally find someone that loves him for himself. The love he finds with Martin is so foreign to him that at times he is unsure of himself and this creates a few issues but in the end there is a HEA. The story also continues with the search for young Lord Selby. I loved the main characters in this story which proves the point that opposites attract because they are as opposite as night and day. I loved how Edward found an inner strength through his association with Martin and other members of the Brotherhood. This is an excellent story that is worth reading and I highly recommend it. I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
Edward is as quiet as a mouse as a backbencher in Parliament. He adores the theatre, in particular Martin Piper, the comedic character both on and off the stage.
However, when the two men are thrown together to track down a medallion for Lord Selby to get back his son from Edward’s evil brother, they come to know and care for each other.
Martin is one bright guy, but no one credits him. Edward is terrified of being found out to be an invert, but can’t hide his feelings with Martin.
Edward realizes it matters more to him to be himself than to hide himself in fear, and he and Martin recover the medallion.
The adventure shifts as more men need to be involved in recovering little Stanley from his kidnapper.
Edward, Member of Parliament, & Martin the Actor - M/M - opposites attract. Almost drafted to help find a missing medallion to help retrieve Blake's son from his soon-to-be ex-wife and her lover Ian (Edward's brother), these two complement each other and together make a whole. Both are sweet with savvy and needs that the other is a perfect fit to fill...if only...and that is where the fun begins. This adventure is full of interesting tidbits as the saga continues, but can standalone. Better as part of a series though. I adored these two and was hoping for the HEA they deserve. Great book!
This series continues, and without a doubt its a four tissue story. While set in the nineteenth century, the internal struggle facing LGBTQ folks through the 20th century reads true. I came out to my folks in 1972 and was sure the world was going to end. I've met women whose folks institutionalized them. In the 60s and 70 s. Brutal
This is a good addition to the series. Beware, this series needs to be read in order. Characters are introduced sequentially and if you read them out of order you may not enjoy the story lines as you would otherwise. Start at the beginning and you'll be fine.
The story started off slow but picked up in speed about 3 / 4 chapters in. I liked how both MCs reacted with each other from the get go. I liked how they were both be able to bond with each other quickly. This is despite the fact that one of them (the MP) had strong fear on being found out as gay (to the borderline of being paranoid). Note that this book was set in historical Britain where being gay was illegal. I certainly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is a CLIFFHANGER! I've been reading this series for what seems like forever. I've enjoyed how the author addresses the challenges of gay society in 1890's England. I found The Brotherhood fascinating. The author's story development is great. However, I'm tired of being strung along by the author to buy "JUST" one more book to discover, in this case an abduction, is not resolved yet! 7 books and yes one series resolved after I think 5 books. I'M DONE. The stories have steamy M/M love scenes. If that's all you need in a book keep buying them.
Other shoe is a cute nickname. Once in a while, I pick up an m/m romance and Merry Farmer has such a talent for writing this book type so just had to read this gem. This book is so dramatic and entertaining and I loved reading it. This must have been such a hard time for the characters to live in. Edward just wants someone who understands and can love him for who he is. The book has so much going on kidnapping, missing children, steamy romance, and it is a cliffhanger oh dear! I loved Martin he is just the right one for Edward. It is a book I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
As a huge fan of the Brotherhood Series I was so happy to read this book and it did not disappoint. Edward and Martin are so very different yet all they want is each other. Edward is not very comfortable with his sexuality. Martin is. Can they come together and work things out. As they are put together on a mission to find Edward's brother and a medallion they'll have a bumpy road ahead but one that could lead to a love that lasts a lifetime. I received this book as an arc for my honest opinion. 🙂
Another enjoyable brotherhood story. Edward and Martin are 360 degree opposite of each other. One is a serious no nonsense uptight politician and another is flamboyant, comfortable in his own skin. There is immediate attraction between the two when they are thrown together. Edward 's brother runs away with a married Duchess taking along the Duke's heir. A very chaotic situation. It was interesting to see them falling in love and overcoming their own respective insecurities. Love can find you in most inappropriate situations... Waiting for the next book
Book seven of The Brotherhood series a well written M/M story that held my interest until the end. This series just gets better with each new book. Member of Parliament, Edward Archibald and actor Martin Piper as they try to get back Lord Selby's son. I know this is a series I will be reading again when it is finished. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Edward and Martin are asked to help Lord Shelby get his son back. They go on a journey to find Edward's brother who has the boy and to find a medallion that Edward's bother wants for the boy. Along the way Edward and Martin start to care for each other but Edward is too afraid to take a chance on what they have. I really enjoyed this book.
The cruel treatment of Edward by his family and their friends will make you so sad. Edward is afraid of everything because of his choice in lovers. His relationship with Martin is fraut with peril. Blake and Niall are still trying to find Blake's son. Just a wonderful read.