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Ormond Yard Romantic Adventures #1
The Gentleman and the Spy
alternate cover edition of ASIN B08T6HC1LP
After his father’s death Lord Magnus Dawson has more important things to think about than falling in love—like how to earn a living when all he knows is the idleness he was raised with, and the military training he received before selling his commission.
For Toby Marsh, the impetus is as great, though he doesn’t have Magnus’s family connections to fall back on. A scholarship student at Cambridge, he was forced to spend his last year in college as valet and sometime tutor to a brainless fellow student after his father’s sudden death. Now he scrabbles out a living as a freelance tutor.
Then a call from the Foreign Office brings them together. Toby disdains the idle lordling, and Magnus can’t seem to treat Toby as more than a servant. As they delve deeper into their assignment, the attraction between them grows. But can they envision a future together when so class and culture conspire to drive them apart?
The Gentleman and the Spy is an 83,000 word Victorian-era lord and valet romance with a country house party and a touch of espionage and international intrigue.
After his father’s death Lord Magnus Dawson has more important things to think about than falling in love—like how to earn a living when all he knows is the idleness he was raised with, and the military training he received before selling his commission.
For Toby Marsh, the impetus is as great, though he doesn’t have Magnus’s family connections to fall back on. A scholarship student at Cambridge, he was forced to spend his last year in college as valet and sometime tutor to a brainless fellow student after his father’s sudden death. Now he scrabbles out a living as a freelance tutor.
Then a call from the Foreign Office brings them together. Toby disdains the idle lordling, and Magnus can’t seem to treat Toby as more than a servant. As they delve deeper into their assignment, the attraction between them grows. But can they envision a future together when so class and culture conspire to drive them apart?
The Gentleman and the Spy is an 83,000 word Victorian-era lord and valet romance with a country house party and a touch of espionage and international intrigue.
391 pages, ebook
First published February 1, 2021
124 people are currently reading
333 people want to read
About the author
Neil S. Plakcy
238 books649 followersI have been a voracious reader all my life, mostly in mystery, romance, and science fiction/fantasy, though a college degree in English did push a lot of literary works into my list of favorites.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 14, 2025
A bit too slow of a start and weak of relationship development to warrant 4 stars from me, but I got this as a freebie and enjoyed it. I’ll read more in the series if I get a subscription that has it (like kindle or kobo) but didn’t like it enough to buy the rest of the series.
February 2, 2021
Neil S. Plakcy has written an extraordinary novel in what is an entirely new Victorian era historical genre for him. As always, Plakcy has created a wonderful cast of characters with two principals who could not be more different - Lord Magnus Dawson, the third son of a duke, and Toby Marsh, a struggling young tutor in Cambridge who had to drop out of university following the death of his father.
Moving through a variety of settings - Martindale House, the sprawling Dawson family mansion in the Cotswolds, to Cambridge, to the British Foreign Office, and to a hunting party at Rexham Castle where a French diplomat is the guest of honor - Magnus and Marsh grow closer to one another as they endeavor to discover the identify of a murderer in their midst.
For me, the absolute best thing about ‘The Gentleman and The Spy’ is that while this is a more than satisfying stand alone read, it definitely opens the door to a potential new series of books from Mr. Plakcy. I for one can’t wait to read more!
Moving through a variety of settings - Martindale House, the sprawling Dawson family mansion in the Cotswolds, to Cambridge, to the British Foreign Office, and to a hunting party at Rexham Castle where a French diplomat is the guest of honor - Magnus and Marsh grow closer to one another as they endeavor to discover the identify of a murderer in their midst.
For me, the absolute best thing about ‘The Gentleman and The Spy’ is that while this is a more than satisfying stand alone read, it definitely opens the door to a potential new series of books from Mr. Plakcy. I for one can’t wait to read more!
May 17, 2021
This is by no means a terrible book but if it was a wooden chair it could do with some sanding down, smoothing out the edges, putting some nice oil on it and then polish it. As it is, it's a sturdy chair you can sit on but there are still some splinters.
Such as insta-love-add-hot-water-and-stir. Also, they are really terrible spies. I get that they are new to the game but, really, bringing up Holmes and Watson, nya, no, not really.
The ending is a HEA because the author chose to sprinkle some magically-gay-okay-powder over it, which is fine and is a set-up for a series.
If you are a fan of the author, you'll probably like it better than I did. It was the second book of his I read and I think we are simply not meant for each other.
Such as insta-love-add-hot-water-and-stir. Also, they are really terrible spies. I get that they are new to the game but, really, bringing up Holmes and Watson, nya, no, not really.
The ending is a HEA because the author chose to sprinkle some magically-gay-okay-powder over it, which is fine and is a set-up for a series.
If you are a fan of the author, you'll probably like it better than I did. It was the second book of his I read and I think we are simply not meant for each other.
dnf
February 22, 2025DNF @ 43%
The romance was weak. There was no chemistry between the MCs at all. This wasn't an issue for me when reading the Mahu series, which was first and foremost a mystery series. But this is romance with a side order of espionage (or so I was promised but they're just barely getting to their assigned spy mission by the point in the story where I called it quits), so it's really important I believe in the romance, but it's written so flaccidly that it might as well not even be there.
I was going to keep plugging away, despite my increasing suspicion that it wouldn't be worth my time, because I've been reading this author for awhile and he usually delivers. But then I saw a friend's review that said that Sherlock Holmes gets a mention in here, and I immediately stopped everything to search for that reference and then double-check what year this was taking place in.
“If two women can live so, why not two men? I just read a story in Beeton’s Christmas Annual about a detective by the name of Sherlock Holmes, who shared lodgings with another man.”
A Study in Scarlet was published in 1887. This story takes place at end of 1876/beginning of 1877. No, sir, you did not read that story over Christmas. This is such a glaring error that I'm baffled how it was made at all. How do you make such a mistake with Sherlock fricking Holmes? The irony of it. This is such an easy thing to research and fix that there's really no excuse for it. And it's not like the spy plot this is eventually to be centered around is some major fixed point in history; I couldn't find anything about France working on their rail lines in 1877 or anywhere close to it, so this story could have just as easily been set in 1888 if he wanted to make that reference.
If the author can't be bothered to get such details correct, I can't be bothered to finish.
The romance was weak. There was no chemistry between the MCs at all. This wasn't an issue for me when reading the Mahu series, which was first and foremost a mystery series. But this is romance with a side order of espionage (or so I was promised but they're just barely getting to their assigned spy mission by the point in the story where I called it quits), so it's really important I believe in the romance, but it's written so flaccidly that it might as well not even be there.
I was going to keep plugging away, despite my increasing suspicion that it wouldn't be worth my time, because I've been reading this author for awhile and he usually delivers. But then I saw a friend's review that said that Sherlock Holmes gets a mention in here, and I immediately stopped everything to search for that reference and then double-check what year this was taking place in.
“If two women can live so, why not two men? I just read a story in Beeton’s Christmas Annual about a detective by the name of Sherlock Holmes, who shared lodgings with another man.”
A Study in Scarlet was published in 1887. This story takes place at end of 1876/beginning of 1877. No, sir, you did not read that story over Christmas. This is such a glaring error that I'm baffled how it was made at all. How do you make such a mistake with Sherlock fricking Holmes? The irony of it. This is such an easy thing to research and fix that there's really no excuse for it. And it's not like the spy plot this is eventually to be centered around is some major fixed point in history; I couldn't find anything about France working on their rail lines in 1877 or anywhere close to it, so this story could have just as easily been set in 1888 if he wanted to make that reference.
If the author can't be bothered to get such details correct, I can't be bothered to finish.
August 26, 2025
Story- and character-wise, I'm not sure I would give this book more than a 2.5, 2.75 rating, as I found myself skimming quite a lot of the book after the 53% mark. In fact, I don't think the two main characters, individually and together, made much sense or gave us much to care about, and I didn't really believe their relationship. What makes me give the story 3 stars, maybe 3.5, is the important context that's provided throughout the book, not only of how rigidly class-driven Victorian England could be, but how dangerous and restrictive the times were for LGBTQIA+ persons.
March 25, 2021
I didn't approach this as a mystery ... more M-M romance promising some 'high drama'. As such I was not disappointed as both MCs were likeable. I did find the constant reporting and feedback between the MCs on their subterfuge/spying discoveries a little repetitious/tiring, but aside from that - this Victorian-era period romance stands up nicely against the best of them (especially when the author is not female or non-binary).
I hope to see more Toby and Magnus adventures from Mr Plakcy now that the introductions have been made so nicely; the author has a great trek-record for producing long running series ... an adventure to India perhaps or a mission to scope out threats to British interests in the Kingdom of Hawaii? 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I hope to see more Toby and Magnus adventures from Mr Plakcy now that the introductions have been made so nicely; the author has a great trek-record for producing long running series ... an adventure to India perhaps or a mission to scope out threats to British interests in the Kingdom of Hawaii? 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
February 6, 2021
Not the best historical whodunit/spy mystery I've ever read unfortunately. The perpetrator was fairly well telegraphed, the two MC's fell in insta-love quite quickly, and there were several errors, not just grammatical, together with some pretty dreadful formatting...just take a look at the cast of characters for example. Won't be bothering with Mr Plakcy again I'm afraid 😕.
January 27, 2021
My first time reading this author's work. I enjoyed the story. It was slow/medium paced, had a likeable MCs with good chemistry, was close to authentic in terms of time period described in the book (I am assuming timeframe between 1880s and 1890s based on names of places and language used), nice little mystery and a good case of amateur sleuthing.
Mr Plakcy did a wonderful job at portraying the intimate relationships of noble families and all that entailed - inheritance, obligations and finding one's own way. It's important to note that the world he created was more inclusive that historically accurate perhaps but it suited the story and the MCs. Many people accepted the nature of their relationship and were open to discuss it and the others of similar inclinations. So there was not much angst from that quarter.
The mystery was not complicated, but it was made very amusing by the MCs sleuthing efforts, their brainstorming of ideas and subsequent solution. The way they came about the solution was a bit too convenient but it worked with the ease of the story.
The MCs, Lord Magnus Dawson and a Cambridge alumnus turned tutor Toby Marsh, may come from different world and have social standing but they are similar in some scholarly pursuits, their need to feel useful and have a purpose. The author clearly defined the line that Toby straddled between lords and people who attended school on scholarship, the attitudes of servants and their masters and how difficult it's to overcome the divide. Marcus despite at first being a snob showed his softer kinder nature which made it possible for their relationship to progress. It was rather quick, I must admit. I wanted them to have more time, but I guess the close quarters and common purpose made them grow close faster. Overall, I enjoyed the story and the author's writing style. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review.
P.S. There was graphic depiction of noncon involving one of the MCs that happened in the past.
Mr Plakcy did a wonderful job at portraying the intimate relationships of noble families and all that entailed - inheritance, obligations and finding one's own way. It's important to note that the world he created was more inclusive that historically accurate perhaps but it suited the story and the MCs. Many people accepted the nature of their relationship and were open to discuss it and the others of similar inclinations. So there was not much angst from that quarter.
The mystery was not complicated, but it was made very amusing by the MCs sleuthing efforts, their brainstorming of ideas and subsequent solution. The way they came about the solution was a bit too convenient but it worked with the ease of the story.
The MCs, Lord Magnus Dawson and a Cambridge alumnus turned tutor Toby Marsh, may come from different world and have social standing but they are similar in some scholarly pursuits, their need to feel useful and have a purpose. The author clearly defined the line that Toby straddled between lords and people who attended school on scholarship, the attitudes of servants and their masters and how difficult it's to overcome the divide. Marcus despite at first being a snob showed his softer kinder nature which made it possible for their relationship to progress. It was rather quick, I must admit. I wanted them to have more time, but I guess the close quarters and common purpose made them grow close faster. Overall, I enjoyed the story and the author's writing style. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review.
P.S. There was graphic depiction of noncon involving one of the MCs that happened in the past.
February 3, 2021
Entertaining
Reviewed on February 1, 2021
I enjoyed reading this well crafted and layered , sexy , historical MM romance and whodunit mystery.
The plotline and mystery kept me engaged. The characters are likeable and relatable; their interactions with the society , class distinction and behaviour was pretty accurate description for the time period; the 19th century (1800-1890).
With that said , The Gentleman and the Spy is written with 21th century (2001-2100) sensibilities . I can understand why author decided to write it as such; after all , this is a light read , HEA romance tale, not a study of how society has drastically changed throughout the years.
Reviewed #TheGentlemanAndTheSpy by #NeilSPlakcy courtesy #GRR
Reviewed on February 1, 2021
I enjoyed reading this well crafted and layered , sexy , historical MM romance and whodunit mystery.
The plotline and mystery kept me engaged. The characters are likeable and relatable; their interactions with the society , class distinction and behaviour was pretty accurate description for the time period; the 19th century (1800-1890).
With that said , The Gentleman and the Spy is written with 21th century (2001-2100) sensibilities . I can understand why author decided to write it as such; after all , this is a light read , HEA romance tale, not a study of how society has drastically changed throughout the years.
Reviewed #TheGentlemanAndTheSpy by #NeilSPlakcy courtesy #GRR
May 13, 2021
I'm a huge fan of British historical gay romance, like that written by K.J. Charles and Cat Sebastian, among others. So a year or more ago I decided to try my hand at one. Though many of those are earlier, I wanted to focus on the Victorian era—specifically December, 1877. I can’t say exactly why. But I read a lot of Victorian literature in college and graduate school, so I felt familiar with the era.
I began by with research on the common tropes. Inheritance is a big one, because many of the grand estates were entailed—they were often tied to a title, and the property could only be inherited by the holder of the title. Younger sons were left to find their own way in the world once their father died.
Class differences were also big, and the idea of an upstairs/downstairs romance was frowned upon. I set out to incorporate those tropes into an MM romance.
BUY FOR KINDLE
OR PRINT
OTHER E-RETAILERS
I began with Lord Magnus Dawson, the third son of a duke. His oldest brother will inherit, while the second son has been set up with a tea plantation in in Ceylon. Magnus’s father bought him a military commission, but when the Duke became ill, Magnus sold his commission to look after his dying dad. The book begins with the Duke’s death, and Magnus realizing he will soon be cut off and needs to find a way to make a living.
One of the ways a young man could succeed back then was by education, and Toby Marsh’s father, a wealthy manufacturer, sends him to King’s College and then to Cambridge. Unfortunately, the senior Marsh dies before Toby can finish his degree, and he’s forced to serve as a valet slash tutor to his wealthy dissolute roommate.
When the book opens, he’s struggling to make a living as a freelance tutor in Cambridge. Then an unusual summons arrives, which will put him in close quarters with Magnus. Love blossoms between them—but can it survive against the stigmas of the Victorian era?
One of my beta readers wrote, “I was completely taken with Magnus and Toby and their personal back stories.”
I hope you will be, too!
I began by with research on the common tropes. Inheritance is a big one, because many of the grand estates were entailed—they were often tied to a title, and the property could only be inherited by the holder of the title. Younger sons were left to find their own way in the world once their father died.
Class differences were also big, and the idea of an upstairs/downstairs romance was frowned upon. I set out to incorporate those tropes into an MM romance.
BUY FOR KINDLE
OR PRINT
OTHER E-RETAILERS
I began with Lord Magnus Dawson, the third son of a duke. His oldest brother will inherit, while the second son has been set up with a tea plantation in in Ceylon. Magnus’s father bought him a military commission, but when the Duke became ill, Magnus sold his commission to look after his dying dad. The book begins with the Duke’s death, and Magnus realizing he will soon be cut off and needs to find a way to make a living.
One of the ways a young man could succeed back then was by education, and Toby Marsh’s father, a wealthy manufacturer, sends him to King’s College and then to Cambridge. Unfortunately, the senior Marsh dies before Toby can finish his degree, and he’s forced to serve as a valet slash tutor to his wealthy dissolute roommate.
When the book opens, he’s struggling to make a living as a freelance tutor in Cambridge. Then an unusual summons arrives, which will put him in close quarters with Magnus. Love blossoms between them—but can it survive against the stigmas of the Victorian era?
One of my beta readers wrote, “I was completely taken with Magnus and Toby and their personal back stories.”
I hope you will be, too!
February 5, 2024
Defying The Class Hierarchy!
A fortuitous meeting changes the lives of Lord Magnus Dawson and Toby Marsh. I love historical romantic stories. This one is no exception. It has intrigue, secrets, a murder, and also sexy bits. My only critique: I didn’t feel the romantic connection between the MCs, so when the “I’m so in love” scene appeared, it felt a little abrupt. Their connection felt more like lust than love. Overall, solid storytelling and a likable read.
A fortuitous meeting changes the lives of Lord Magnus Dawson and Toby Marsh. I love historical romantic stories. This one is no exception. It has intrigue, secrets, a murder, and also sexy bits. My only critique: I didn’t feel the romantic connection between the MCs, so when the “I’m so in love” scene appeared, it felt a little abrupt. Their connection felt more like lust than love. Overall, solid storytelling and a likable read.
February 6, 2021
I have enjoyed several of Neil Plackcy's contemporary Mahu Investigations books and I am delighted to see him branching out into historical mystery/espionage and romance. I found the plot very interesting and the period details well handled. Particular emphasis is placed on the class differences between the two main characters and that provides a realistic set of obstacles to their relationship. The romance was never allowed to overpower the espionage plot and the history was nicely woven into the story, not dumped in in large lumps. A great read.
April 28, 2021
3.5/4*
Have read and enjoyed other NSP stories and this one delivered in keeping me engaged and entertained.
I do think there were times when more modern terms were used, particularly in the clothing.
I enjoyed Toby and Magnus - despite being at opposite ends of the social scale, they both suffered from finding a role in life, though Magnus was the better off of the two.
Gentlemanly, and gentleman’s man, spy work was much more gentile in those days, though the railway intrigue was a bit weak and the killer perhaps came to mind a bit early.
However, enjoyed and hope to see more.
Have read and enjoyed other NSP stories and this one delivered in keeping me engaged and entertained.
I do think there were times when more modern terms were used, particularly in the clothing.
I enjoyed Toby and Magnus - despite being at opposite ends of the social scale, they both suffered from finding a role in life, though Magnus was the better off of the two.
Gentlemanly, and gentleman’s man, spy work was much more gentile in those days, though the railway intrigue was a bit weak and the killer perhaps came to mind a bit early.
However, enjoyed and hope to see more.
March 9, 2021
2.5 rounded up to 3 stars. I enjoyed some of this story, but there were discrepancies throughout that were disappointing. I also found the plot about the railway plans hard to follow, and the murder mystery wasn't very exciting.
But I did like Toby and would probably read a sequel. Maybe the author could get a British editor on board. (Did Victorian men wear "slacks"?)
But I did like Toby and would probably read a sequel. Maybe the author could get a British editor on board. (Did Victorian men wear "slacks"?)
September 2, 2024
A Late Victorian Tale
Plakcy obviously knows late nineteenth century England, as this marvelous book draws on class distinction and latent homophobia. The MCs are an interesting contrast, flips in the toff/trade and military/education statuses. Country estates and urban housing are showcased, and the costumed attire plays strongly.
Plakcy obviously knows late nineteenth century England, as this marvelous book draws on class distinction and latent homophobia. The MCs are an interesting contrast, flips in the toff/trade and military/education statuses. Country estates and urban housing are showcased, and the costumed attire plays strongly.
February 2, 2021
ARC by Gay Romance Book Reviews
This is my very first book by Neil Placky and I'm so happy to have stumbled upon it.
Nice, rich prose, intricate characters and all of that, combined with an investigation (I don't want to spoil the rest, so I'll just say- watch out there).
I liked the two main characters. The building of the romance part didn't have the high levels of angst I am normally a huge fan of, and the relationship between Toby and Magnus was a bit quiet, but I still think it fit the overall mood and flow of the story.
This is my very first book by Neil Placky and I'm so happy to have stumbled upon it.
Nice, rich prose, intricate characters and all of that, combined with an investigation (I don't want to spoil the rest, so I'll just say- watch out there).
I liked the two main characters. The building of the romance part didn't have the high levels of angst I am normally a huge fan of, and the relationship between Toby and Magnus was a bit quiet, but I still think it fit the overall mood and flow of the story.
October 27, 2025
4.5 at one point but ending felt more like 3.5
Pretty good start but once they got together, it was pretty insta-lovey. The mystery/politics ended up pretty meh, and they are honestly not good spies. The ending is a bit unrealistic with how many people they let on knowing and are cool with it openly, and some aspects of characters’ motives (like his brother) seem inconsistent and confusing. I love nuance and am happy to see impressions change, but there needs to be a bit more hints and development and overall polishing to the story telling. All that said, I very much enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
Pretty good start but once they got together, it was pretty insta-lovey. The mystery/politics ended up pretty meh, and they are honestly not good spies. The ending is a bit unrealistic with how many people they let on knowing and are cool with it openly, and some aspects of characters’ motives (like his brother) seem inconsistent and confusing. I love nuance and am happy to see impressions change, but there needs to be a bit more hints and development and overall polishing to the story telling. All that said, I very much enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
February 2, 2021
Magnus is an aristocrat— but a third son recently detached from the army, without connections or funds. Toby comes from a middle-class background but has an upper-class education, as well as training in service to the gentry. Alone, neither meets the selective criteria for the Foreign Service. Together, with Magnus's pedigree and Toby's brain, they’re the perfect team of makeshift agents to send to a country estate for espionage purposes.
There’s a lot going on in this book, and the intrigue is intricate and engrossing. The budding romance between Toby and Magnus is captivating as well, although I found Toby a significantly more compelling character than Magnus. Magnus has struggles and demons of his own— but they’re the struggles and demons of a spoiled rich kid. Toby is smarter and more cynical— he understands how the world works, because he’s been betrayed by it too many times not to. His life among the gentry but not of the gentry is a cautionary tale in exactly how arbitrary, and brutal, enforced class distinctions can be. So I understand why Magnus wants Toby— he gives him direction and purpose, as well as love. I’m not sure, however, exactly what Magnus brings Toby, other than the fact that he’s nice to look at. Overall, however, I thought the balance between romance and plot was well done, and the chemistry between the two is real.
You get the feeling, reading this book, that it was written by someone who’d done their research, but the historical detail, while exacting, doesn’t feel ponderous or excessively didactic— instead it informs not just the plot but also the characters. All in all, a really enjoyable read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There’s a lot going on in this book, and the intrigue is intricate and engrossing. The budding romance between Toby and Magnus is captivating as well, although I found Toby a significantly more compelling character than Magnus. Magnus has struggles and demons of his own— but they’re the struggles and demons of a spoiled rich kid. Toby is smarter and more cynical— he understands how the world works, because he’s been betrayed by it too many times not to. His life among the gentry but not of the gentry is a cautionary tale in exactly how arbitrary, and brutal, enforced class distinctions can be. So I understand why Magnus wants Toby— he gives him direction and purpose, as well as love. I’m not sure, however, exactly what Magnus brings Toby, other than the fact that he’s nice to look at. Overall, however, I thought the balance between romance and plot was well done, and the chemistry between the two is real.
You get the feeling, reading this book, that it was written by someone who’d done their research, but the historical detail, while exacting, doesn’t feel ponderous or excessively didactic— instead it informs not just the plot but also the characters. All in all, a really enjoyable read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2021
The Gentleman and the Spy is a great historical romance by Neil S. Plakcy.
Lord Magnus and Toby are complete opposites in every way, except for the fact that they both share a certain lifestyle preference.
Working together, as spies for the crown, they embark on a journey full of suspense and mystery. Their forced proximity also leads them on a journey full of fear, heat, and love.
The family issues surrounding Lord Magnus add a lot of layers to the tale. Being threatened to marry soon, and having no education to fall back on, his choices are limited despite his wealth. His role in his family is an interesting one and leads this story along well.
Once they come together about their feelings, their big problem is that society doesn't allow them to be together. Not just because they're both men. But also because they come from different social statuses. I appreciate the way the author handles this, fully developing the feel of their time and circumstances.
Overall, the writing is great. The characters are complex and their situations even more complex. The author excels in creating the atmosphere around these men and all the societal layers of the time.
Tigger - This tale does include discussion of past non-con scene that is devastating to hear. Avoid if that's a trigger for you. But, damn, I love the resulting scene that makes this information important. It's extremely emotional and beautiful.
Overall, The Gentleman and the Spy is a good read. It's definitely worth a try the next time you're in the mood for a good historical romance.
Lord Magnus and Toby are complete opposites in every way, except for the fact that they both share a certain lifestyle preference.
Working together, as spies for the crown, they embark on a journey full of suspense and mystery. Their forced proximity also leads them on a journey full of fear, heat, and love.
The family issues surrounding Lord Magnus add a lot of layers to the tale. Being threatened to marry soon, and having no education to fall back on, his choices are limited despite his wealth. His role in his family is an interesting one and leads this story along well.
Once they come together about their feelings, their big problem is that society doesn't allow them to be together. Not just because they're both men. But also because they come from different social statuses. I appreciate the way the author handles this, fully developing the feel of their time and circumstances.
Overall, the writing is great. The characters are complex and their situations even more complex. The author excels in creating the atmosphere around these men and all the societal layers of the time.
Tigger - This tale does include discussion of past non-con scene that is devastating to hear. Avoid if that's a trigger for you. But, damn, I love the resulting scene that makes this information important. It's extremely emotional and beautiful.
Overall, The Gentleman and the Spy is a good read. It's definitely worth a try the next time you're in the mood for a good historical romance.
February 5, 2021
Historical fiction done right !
As a big fan of historicals, the blurb hooked me right in. Set in the Victorian age, the story is a perfect amalgam of adventure, suspense, murder/mystery and romance.
In the ironic ways that fate works, our heroes are like two sides of the etched coin that is society-Magnus who enjoys the luxuries of the gentry, but is regarded as no better than his inherited title and army man honor and Toby who has a degree to his name, his intellectual but is still treated as someone below the stairs.
When the duo are assigned to a secret spy operation, sparks fly and over lots of flirty and witty banter, they realise that they indeed share the same passions. Some of the lines there were so very beautiful to read.
The plot is engaging and the author's diction and writing style create a perfect mix of suspense and romance.The witty banter between the MCs was a absolute treat to read and I enjoyed the way the author has described society and lifestyles in the Victorian era.
If you are a fan of historicals or looking for a MM romance with a bit of mystery, one -click this one ASAP. Looking forward to read more works from this author in the near future.
As a big fan of historicals, the blurb hooked me right in. Set in the Victorian age, the story is a perfect amalgam of adventure, suspense, murder/mystery and romance.
In the ironic ways that fate works, our heroes are like two sides of the etched coin that is society-Magnus who enjoys the luxuries of the gentry, but is regarded as no better than his inherited title and army man honor and Toby who has a degree to his name, his intellectual but is still treated as someone below the stairs.
When the duo are assigned to a secret spy operation, sparks fly and over lots of flirty and witty banter, they realise that they indeed share the same passions. Some of the lines there were so very beautiful to read.
|"Magnus was like a glob of warm clay in a potter’s experienced hands. And slowly, he felt the potter’s masterpiece take hold, rising in him like an incoming tide, sweeping him to a place where the stars glittered like fiery embers."|
The plot is engaging and the author's diction and writing style create a perfect mix of suspense and romance.The witty banter between the MCs was a absolute treat to read and I enjoyed the way the author has described society and lifestyles in the Victorian era.
If you are a fan of historicals or looking for a MM romance with a bit of mystery, one -click this one ASAP. Looking forward to read more works from this author in the near future.
February 3, 2021
I enjoyed this book. Like many people, I am a lover of the Upstairs Downstairs British House Party setting. Throw in mystery and I'm suckered in.
I will confess that I felt as if I should have taken notes from the start, on who was who, how they were linked, what their intentions and motives might be - either with regard to the mystery aspect or in their own lives and business/financial dealings. While some readers said that they found the mystery easy to solve, I didn't have a chance at that, even if I understood it when all was exposed.
But I did still enjoy it, just accepted a certain amount of vague understanding on my part. I think others who are more observant would not find it thus though. (Or those who already find the peerage and the type of business dealings that went on this book simple.) The characters were interesting and not always as they seemed, either for good or ill. I very much liked Magnus, for all his goodness and his flaws, and it was easy to sympathize with Toby and his frustrations with the class system.
The romance is romantic and highly physical. I am unsure if the outcome for the pair was entirely realistic, but a part of reading romance is the relief of the possibility of a happy ending.
I have not read this author before, but I would not hesitate in doing so again.
I will confess that I felt as if I should have taken notes from the start, on who was who, how they were linked, what their intentions and motives might be - either with regard to the mystery aspect or in their own lives and business/financial dealings. While some readers said that they found the mystery easy to solve, I didn't have a chance at that, even if I understood it when all was exposed.
But I did still enjoy it, just accepted a certain amount of vague understanding on my part. I think others who are more observant would not find it thus though. (Or those who already find the peerage and the type of business dealings that went on this book simple.) The characters were interesting and not always as they seemed, either for good or ill. I very much liked Magnus, for all his goodness and his flaws, and it was easy to sympathize with Toby and his frustrations with the class system.
The romance is romantic and highly physical. I am unsure if the outcome for the pair was entirely realistic, but a part of reading romance is the relief of the possibility of a happy ending.
I have not read this author before, but I would not hesitate in doing so again.
January 29, 2021
4.5 stars to 5.
I don’t know what I loved more - the house-party mystery (Dead Bodies! International Intrigue!) or Magnus and Toby’s romance, all written in a style reminiscent of classic Victorian novel (but with more queer people and steamy scenes). The two together made this a hard book to put down.
First the romance. Magnus and Toby are both vastly different and very similar. Entering any sort of relationship is fraught with tension, as both walk a tightrope between their growing feelings for one another and the strict rules of their world. But it’s a *romantic* adventure, which means they will inevitably fail at keeping any boundaries, thank goodness, making for an entertaining and steamy love story.
And then there’s the intrigue. It’s not front and center, but the espionage does provide a perfect backdrop as the two men figure out their lives, their love, and what may be worrying the Foreign Office.
Mostly, I just really am hoping this is the start of a series, because Marcus and Toby need to go do their duty for the Queen again and again and again, and then we all can reap the rewards of their service.
I received an ARC copy from Gay Romance Reviews. This is my honest review.
I don’t know what I loved more - the house-party mystery (Dead Bodies! International Intrigue!) or Magnus and Toby’s romance, all written in a style reminiscent of classic Victorian novel (but with more queer people and steamy scenes). The two together made this a hard book to put down.
First the romance. Magnus and Toby are both vastly different and very similar. Entering any sort of relationship is fraught with tension, as both walk a tightrope between their growing feelings for one another and the strict rules of their world. But it’s a *romantic* adventure, which means they will inevitably fail at keeping any boundaries, thank goodness, making for an entertaining and steamy love story.
And then there’s the intrigue. It’s not front and center, but the espionage does provide a perfect backdrop as the two men figure out their lives, their love, and what may be worrying the Foreign Office.
Mostly, I just really am hoping this is the start of a series, because Marcus and Toby need to go do their duty for the Queen again and again and again, and then we all can reap the rewards of their service.
I received an ARC copy from Gay Romance Reviews. This is my honest review.
February 1, 2021
I received an ARC and choosing to leave an honest review.
The Gentleman and Spy is a Regency era spy novel that serves as a backdrop to the relationship between Magnus, the third son of Duke who has few prospects since his withdrawal from the military, and Toby, a Cambridge scholarship graduate who is barely scraping by as a tutor.
When both men are called to work for the Foreign Office, they are thrown together and feelings happen.
The characters are beautifully drawn using accidentally witnessed moments of unexpected kindness or patience, and there is definitely an air of mystery to the novel, as well as the tension that comes from two main characters being gay in this era.
The novel deals with the theme of homosexuality in Regency England, as well as the issues of difference in class or societal standing and how this might affect a relationship.
I usually like a bit more drama in my novels, although it's normal for this genre for the drama to be much more understated (no place for car chases or high stakes shoot outs on a stately home in the English countryside). There was enough tension to keep me reading to the end and I've already downloaded the box set of The Golden Retriever Mysteries by the same author to read.
The Gentleman and Spy is a Regency era spy novel that serves as a backdrop to the relationship between Magnus, the third son of Duke who has few prospects since his withdrawal from the military, and Toby, a Cambridge scholarship graduate who is barely scraping by as a tutor.
When both men are called to work for the Foreign Office, they are thrown together and feelings happen.
The characters are beautifully drawn using accidentally witnessed moments of unexpected kindness or patience, and there is definitely an air of mystery to the novel, as well as the tension that comes from two main characters being gay in this era.
The novel deals with the theme of homosexuality in Regency England, as well as the issues of difference in class or societal standing and how this might affect a relationship.
I usually like a bit more drama in my novels, although it's normal for this genre for the drama to be much more understated (no place for car chases or high stakes shoot outs on a stately home in the English countryside). There was enough tension to keep me reading to the end and I've already downloaded the box set of The Golden Retriever Mysteries by the same author to read.
February 1, 2021
I believe from the hints of events that this tale took place in the late 1800's. What a stifling society it must have been. Let alone being gay but being the 3rd wheel (or son in this case) Lord Magnus Dawson didn't have much of a future to look forward to after being discharged from Her Majesty's service. His title was in name only; didn't carry much weight in England's social circles. He saw the injustices meted out not only to gay men but all lower-class individuals that the upper English considered beneath them. As for Toby Marsh he had just a bleak a future but on the lower stratum of English society. His talent for languages earned him a job as tutor but his treatment by other students demeaned him. His horrible sexual attack scarred his psyche and hindered his efforts to make something of his timid relationship with Magnus grown into an alliance that they both desired. Their growth into a loving relationship was heartwarming. Add in the mystery of political subterfuge , murder of an innocent victim, amateur sleuthing, besting Scotland Yard, and both getting recognition for their efforts made for a satisfying read for me. This is my voluntary and honest review for the ARC I received.
June 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. It was the perfect blend of mystery, danger, historical details, passion, and romance. Lord Magnus is at the crossroads of his life. His father has recently died and Magnus's older brother has inherited the title. As a third son, recently resigned from his military commission, Magnus will be low on funds with no plans for how he can work, especially as a member of the noble class.
Toby is a tutor of foreign languages. On scholarship, he had the advantage of a university degree, but with his father's death, he finished his education working as a valet for his wealthy roommate. Now, recruited by British intelligence for a short job, he is asked to serve as a spy under the guise of a valet. He is introduced to Magnus and feels an instant attraction, but he knows he should never act on it, especially due to the danger and the class difference.
The mystery of this story pulls the reader in. The backdrop of spies and nobility makes for more interest. The relationship between these two men is passionate and it quickly deepens despite the need for secrecy. Great romance! I look forward to the next book in the series.
Toby is a tutor of foreign languages. On scholarship, he had the advantage of a university degree, but with his father's death, he finished his education working as a valet for his wealthy roommate. Now, recruited by British intelligence for a short job, he is asked to serve as a spy under the guise of a valet. He is introduced to Magnus and feels an instant attraction, but he knows he should never act on it, especially due to the danger and the class difference.
The mystery of this story pulls the reader in. The backdrop of spies and nobility makes for more interest. The relationship between these two men is passionate and it quickly deepens despite the need for secrecy. Great romance! I look forward to the next book in the series.
February 4, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! I loved the overarching plot and the author writes the characters and dialogue so well. I would absolutely read another book set in this world, especially if it followed the same main characters. They were so much fun.
I do want to note – and this really isn’t a complaint – that the relationship was a bit instalust that quickly became instalove, and there was more emphasis on the plot than the romance. But the balance fit the story and I never felt like I needed more romance to like the book. And the scenes are intimate and spicy!
I’d say this story is low to no angst. Even though there are some things to overcome, it’s not drawn out and you never feel anxious about things coming together like you hope.
I definitely recommend!
(Potential Trigger Warning: this is a historical fiction, so there is homophobia throughout the story.)
I do want to note – and this really isn’t a complaint – that the relationship was a bit instalust that quickly became instalove, and there was more emphasis on the plot than the romance. But the balance fit the story and I never felt like I needed more romance to like the book. And the scenes are intimate and spicy!
I’d say this story is low to no angst. Even though there are some things to overcome, it’s not drawn out and you never feel anxious about things coming together like you hope.
I definitely recommend!
(Potential Trigger Warning: this is a historical fiction, so there is homophobia throughout the story.)
February 2, 2021
Oh my goodness. I just finished this book and I loved it. I love mm romance, mystery books, historical romance and spy novels and this book combines them all. All of the characters were so well fleshed out, even with the more minor characters I felt like I could see them in my mind and hear their voices. The situations that happen in this story felt very real and I felt like flashbacks were inserted into the story in such a way that they enhanced the tale rather than confused it as I have seen in many other books. I have been reading up on the topic of gay people in history and have encountered documentation that goes to prove that they were around and even living together a lot more than people realized. I really hope that this becomes a series and we get to read more about the life and adventures that Magnus and Toby have together.
February 3, 2021
I love both historical romances, and spy thrillers - this is a charming combination of both. I hadn't read anything by Plakcy before, so went into it with no expectations beyond the blurb, and was pleasantly surprised to find it lived up to what I was hoping for.
Plakcy writes a good mystery plot - it felt driven both by the excellent writing, and the work being carried out by Toby and Magnus, without simply using the story as a device to facilitating their blooming romance. I liked the style and the generally understated tone - the themes are dealt with with empathy and without unnecessary angst. I did like how the two main characters choose to communicate with one another, which made the whole thing feel nicely realistic rather than unnecessarily dramatic.
Overall, Plakcy is now an author I will be keeping an eye out for!
Plakcy writes a good mystery plot - it felt driven both by the excellent writing, and the work being carried out by Toby and Magnus, without simply using the story as a device to facilitating their blooming romance. I liked the style and the generally understated tone - the themes are dealt with with empathy and without unnecessary angst. I did like how the two main characters choose to communicate with one another, which made the whole thing feel nicely realistic rather than unnecessarily dramatic.
Overall, Plakcy is now an author I will be keeping an eye out for!
February 4, 2021
This is an interesting story of love between classes in a time where it's a crime to be gay. Toby is a natural caretaker, starting with his roommate at Cambridge. He started with just making sure he looked well, then tutored him. When he needed financial aid to stay in school, he was offered a job valeting for tuition. And that is how he ended up working for the home office, where he met Magnus. Put on a case together, they tried to keep things professional, but lust won out. Magnus was willing to do anything to have a relationship with Toby, but Toby didn't trust society men. The case they were working on was suspenseful, and the other characters were fascinating. It has a good pace to keep you interested. I enjoyed it very much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
March 27, 2021
An amazing story full of intrigue, class distinction, and romance, this is a wonderful tale that completely engrossed me. This is my first with this author and, after looking through his lengthy catalogue of books, I'm stunned that I've never come across him before now. Magnus is a kind-hearted but desperate third son of a Duke, struggling to find his way forward. While Toby is snippy, resents the upper-class, and is surprisingly good at being a spy. The intrigue at Rexham Castle, although starting off quietly, was quite entertaining and exciting, a lot of names and titles to remember at first but it flows nicely and each character becomes clear, warts and all. The way things ended made me wonder if there would be more of this sleuthing duo, that would be a most welcome surprise. Finally, Magnus! Oh, Magnus, what a totally wonderful man, we all need a man like Magnus.
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