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Something Fabulous #2
Something Spectacular
From the USA Today bestselling author of Boyfriend Material comes a riotous Regency romp full of art, expensive hats, and a love that is nothing short of spectacular.
Peggy Delancey’s not at all ready to move on from her former flame, Arabella Tarleton. But Belle has her own plans for a love match, and she needs Peggy’s help to make those plans a reality. Still hung up on her feelings and unable to deny Belle what she wants, Peggy reluctantly agrees to help her woo the famous and flamboyant opera singer Orfeo.
She certainly doesn’t expect to find common ground with a celebrated soprano, but when Peggy and Orfeo meet, a whole new flame is ignited that she can’t ignore. Peggy finds an immediate kinship with Orfeo, a castrato who’s just as nonconforming as she is—and just as affected by their instant connection.
They’ve never been able to find their place in the world, but as the pair walks the line between friendship, flirtation, and something more, they may just find their place with each other.
Peggy Delancey’s not at all ready to move on from her former flame, Arabella Tarleton. But Belle has her own plans for a love match, and she needs Peggy’s help to make those plans a reality. Still hung up on her feelings and unable to deny Belle what she wants, Peggy reluctantly agrees to help her woo the famous and flamboyant opera singer Orfeo.
She certainly doesn’t expect to find common ground with a celebrated soprano, but when Peggy and Orfeo meet, a whole new flame is ignited that she can’t ignore. Peggy finds an immediate kinship with Orfeo, a castrato who’s just as nonconforming as she is—and just as affected by their instant connection.
They’ve never been able to find their place in the world, but as the pair walks the line between friendship, flirtation, and something more, they may just find their place with each other.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2023
250 people are currently reading
7470 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Hall
59 books15k followersOne of those intricate British queers.
Please note: I don’t read / reply to DMs. If you would like to get in touch, the best way is via email which you can find in the contact section on my website <3
Please note: I don’t read / reply to DMs. If you would like to get in touch, the best way is via email which you can find in the contact section on my website <3
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 458 reviews
February 5, 2023
This book was a complete joy. I often find that the context in which I read a book impacts my experience, and that was especially true here. I read "Something Spectacular" simultaneously with "Flowers from the Storm," which felt like the perfect balance of angst and amusement and also highlighted how each explores issues of freedom and identity.
Things I thought were spectacular, in no particular order:
-THE POETRY SALON. I could not stop giggling. "Ode to the Hyacinth" is an instant classic. And it just got better and better.
-Peggy's parents. Parents in romance often exist on a scale of very bad/absent to neutral. I loved the Delanceys and how *they* loved: uncomplicatedly and uncompromisingly, as the book says, in their actions as well as their words.
-Bonny and Valentine (Reprise). 10/10, no notes.
-Sir Horley. I want to give him a hug.
-And Peggy and Orfeo, together and individually, with their courage to exist in the world precisely as they are and how they find ways to make themselves free. I've also been thinking about how Peggy wants to be a parent, but not a mother, and all the ways in which the identity of "mother" is limiting in its own way.
I did take note of my own unconscious bias (if that's the right term?) when it comes to the singular "they/them" in text. Apologies if I don’t express this properly, it just took me a minute to adjust and I wanted to acknowledge that, because I do think it means I need to read more diversely and create new neural pathways. It was particularly striking as I was also adjusting to the Plain Speech in FftS, which is also central to the character’s identity and freedom.
ETA: I do much better with they/them verbally. I think this is due to my tween daughter and her friends, for whom this is second nature. My generation needs to do better.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC
Things I thought were spectacular, in no particular order:
-THE POETRY SALON. I could not stop giggling. "Ode to the Hyacinth" is an instant classic. And it just got better and better.
-Peggy's parents. Parents in romance often exist on a scale of very bad/absent to neutral. I loved the Delanceys and how *they* loved: uncomplicatedly and uncompromisingly, as the book says, in their actions as well as their words.
-Bonny and Valentine (Reprise). 10/10, no notes.
-Sir Horley. I want to give him a hug.
-And Peggy and Orfeo, together and individually, with their courage to exist in the world precisely as they are and how they find ways to make themselves free. I've also been thinking about how Peggy wants to be a parent, but not a mother, and all the ways in which the identity of "mother" is limiting in its own way.
I did take note of my own unconscious bias (if that's the right term?) when it comes to the singular "they/them" in text. Apologies if I don’t express this properly, it just took me a minute to adjust and I wanted to acknowledge that, because I do think it means I need to read more diversely and create new neural pathways. It was particularly striking as I was also adjusting to the Plain Speech in FftS, which is also central to the character’s identity and freedom.
ETA: I do much better with they/them verbally. I think this is due to my tween daughter and her friends, for whom this is second nature. My generation needs to do better.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC
April 18, 2023
Something Spectacular by Alexis Hall
Book #2 in the Something Fantastic series. LGBTQ+ historical romance. NB/NB. Best read as part of the series in order. Characters and backstory from the first book play heavily in this story.
Peggy Delancey is in love with Arabella Tarleton and has a hard time saying no to any of her requests. So Peggy travels to London to help Arabella catch the eye of celebrated soprano, Orfeo. But Orfeo and Peggy have eyes only for each other as they begin a relationship neither expected.
While it’s set in historical times, the author is clear in the introduction that the language is modern and that liberties are taken in the settings.
Orfeo is a “kept” artist of the times and they must sing and consort for their living. Peggy’s eyes are opened to the privileged life she’s led.
It’s a romance. It’s a statement of the times for the artist. It’s a bit erotica for the couples from the series and a few others. It’s a declaration of acceptance demanded by the author for the reader. It’s a romp of indulgence for the characters though they must overcome a bit of strife first to get there.
Again, it’s a romance so a guaranteed happily ever after.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Book #2 in the Something Fantastic series. LGBTQ+ historical romance. NB/NB. Best read as part of the series in order. Characters and backstory from the first book play heavily in this story.
Peggy Delancey is in love with Arabella Tarleton and has a hard time saying no to any of her requests. So Peggy travels to London to help Arabella catch the eye of celebrated soprano, Orfeo. But Orfeo and Peggy have eyes only for each other as they begin a relationship neither expected.
While it’s set in historical times, the author is clear in the introduction that the language is modern and that liberties are taken in the settings.
Orfeo is a “kept” artist of the times and they must sing and consort for their living. Peggy’s eyes are opened to the privileged life she’s led.
It’s a romance. It’s a statement of the times for the artist. It’s a bit erotica for the couples from the series and a few others. It’s a declaration of acceptance demanded by the author for the reader. It’s a romp of indulgence for the characters though they must overcome a bit of strife first to get there.
Again, it’s a romance so a guaranteed happily ever after.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
May 4, 2023
ARC courtesy of Montlake and NetGalley (thank you!)
“Sometimes living, simply as we are, is the greatest act of courage there is”
“Fuck nice. I deserve something spectacular”
💜💜😭😭🥰🥰
I absolutely adored the first book in Alexis Hall's Something Something series - Something Fabulous. It is a fantastic queer Regency romp that was one of my go-to comfort re-reads in 2022. I loved Valentine and Bonny and all of their ridiculousness and I adored Peggy - Margaret Delancey - the only truly sensible character in SF and deserving of her own book. Something Spectacular is Peggy's book and it is wonderful; very funny, sexy, deeply romantic and tender. It also cracked me open emotionally with its gentle explorations of self identity and expression.
Peggy has been unrequitedly in love with her dramatic best friend Arabella Tarleton for many years. Loyal and unable to refuse anything Belle asks of her, Peggy agrees to woo famous castrato opera singer Orfeo on Belle's behalf. Peggy finds herself instantly attracted to Orfeo, stepping out of the sidelines and daring to risk her own heart to be with this glamorous prima uomo whose dazzling fabulous life is more complicated than first appears. Peggy and Orfeo's moments together are wonderful with flirting, sexiness, tenderness and intimacy as they move from mutual attraction to a deeper connection.
Peggy always brings the sensible - has been practical when her friends are ridiculous and OTT, but has been careful with her hopes and wishes in a world that narrowly defines her options. Over the course of the book she discovers that she wants to be the hero of her own story and live authentically with the person she loves.
Characters from the first book return and it was lovely to spend time with Valentine, Bonny, and Sir Horley and see how their relationships have grown. Peggy has always seen her friends completely and generously and with her POV they shine in all their complexities and dimensions. And as a Sir Horley fan the additional time spent with him was wonderful but I am desperate for more!
“Sometimes living, simply as we are, is the greatest act of courage there is”
“Fuck nice. I deserve something spectacular”
💜💜😭😭🥰🥰
I absolutely adored the first book in Alexis Hall's Something Something series - Something Fabulous. It is a fantastic queer Regency romp that was one of my go-to comfort re-reads in 2022. I loved Valentine and Bonny and all of their ridiculousness and I adored Peggy - Margaret Delancey - the only truly sensible character in SF and deserving of her own book. Something Spectacular is Peggy's book and it is wonderful; very funny, sexy, deeply romantic and tender. It also cracked me open emotionally with its gentle explorations of self identity and expression.
Peggy has been unrequitedly in love with her dramatic best friend Arabella Tarleton for many years. Loyal and unable to refuse anything Belle asks of her, Peggy agrees to woo famous castrato opera singer Orfeo on Belle's behalf. Peggy finds herself instantly attracted to Orfeo, stepping out of the sidelines and daring to risk her own heart to be with this glamorous prima uomo whose dazzling fabulous life is more complicated than first appears. Peggy and Orfeo's moments together are wonderful with flirting, sexiness, tenderness and intimacy as they move from mutual attraction to a deeper connection.
Peggy always brings the sensible - has been practical when her friends are ridiculous and OTT, but has been careful with her hopes and wishes in a world that narrowly defines her options. Over the course of the book she discovers that she wants to be the hero of her own story and live authentically with the person she loves.
Characters from the first book return and it was lovely to spend time with Valentine, Bonny, and Sir Horley and see how their relationships have grown. Peggy has always seen her friends completely and generously and with her POV they shine in all their complexities and dimensions. And as a Sir Horley fan the additional time spent with him was wonderful but I am desperate for more!
September 29, 2023
There once was an author named Hall
With worlds queer and kind for us all
But with this silly tale
His genius did fail
Cuz I didn't buy Peggy in thrall.
With worlds queer and kind for us all
But with this silly tale
His genius did fail
Cuz I didn't buy Peggy in thrall.
Want to read
February 5, 2022I have loved Alexis Hall’s writing in the 5 novels I’ve read so far. I may read this one for that reason alone. However, I found Arabella insufferable in the first book, and the extent to which she grated on my nerves may put me off from reading Peggy’s story.
I can’t imagine Bella will have an insignificant role in this novel. If you enjoyed her, that will add appeal. If not, I think it’s best to imagine the first novel as a stand alone since it works really well as one!
I can’t imagine Bella will have an insignificant role in this novel. If you enjoyed her, that will add appeal. If not, I think it’s best to imagine the first novel as a stand alone since it works really well as one!
May 1, 2023
I'm not crying, YOU'RE crying... review to follow when I manage to collect all my feels!!!
Ok, I'm finally back.
So having read with both eyes and ears this book is amazing.
I will admit that I really struggled with the Tarleton's in the first book. I had it pointed out to me that the reason they came across as so annoying was because they were seen from Valentine's perspective. Which I thought "sounds fake, but ok"....
But oh, my heart. Peggy is just so delightfully generous and always always starts from a point of a positive take on other people and seeing the best in them. And suddenly through her eyes I see a whole new dimension to the cast. She sees Valentines awkward attempts to connect and show love, she sees the frustration in Belle to find her place and figure out what is "wrong" with her (nothing, Belle, nothing in wrong with you, but I can see how that would be hard to believe when you don't fit the mold around you). She sees Sir Horley's secret struggles, and the difference between when Orfeo is performing and when Orfeo is their true self. And my experience of the story and the cast is so much richer through Peggy's eyes.
Importantly for me, I got an acknowledgement from Belle that she can be selfish, and her self awareness about this made me actually not hate her anymore, and actually feel for her.
Peggy becoming the Main Character of her own story was also beautiful to watch, and something that hit home in a really deep way.
The beauty of Peggy finding her happiness with her chosen family around her was beautiful. She was loved exactly for who she was able to give that to Orfeo as well in return.
I will be revisiting this over and over as a comfort read.
Ok, I'm finally back.
So having read with both eyes and ears this book is amazing.
I will admit that I really struggled with the Tarleton's in the first book. I had it pointed out to me that the reason they came across as so annoying was because they were seen from Valentine's perspective. Which I thought "sounds fake, but ok"....
But oh, my heart. Peggy is just so delightfully generous and always always starts from a point of a positive take on other people and seeing the best in them. And suddenly through her eyes I see a whole new dimension to the cast. She sees Valentines awkward attempts to connect and show love, she sees the frustration in Belle to find her place and figure out what is "wrong" with her (nothing, Belle, nothing in wrong with you, but I can see how that would be hard to believe when you don't fit the mold around you). She sees Sir Horley's secret struggles, and the difference between when Orfeo is performing and when Orfeo is their true self. And my experience of the story and the cast is so much richer through Peggy's eyes.
Importantly for me, I got an acknowledgement from Belle that she can be selfish, and her self awareness about this made me actually not hate her anymore, and actually feel for her.
Peggy becoming the Main Character of her own story was also beautiful to watch, and something that hit home in a really deep way.
The beauty of Peggy finding her happiness with her chosen family around her was beautiful. She was loved exactly for who she was able to give that to Orfeo as well in return.
I will be revisiting this over and over as a comfort read.
February 21, 2023
3.5 stars
Something Spectacular is dazzling, campy, and over-the-top, and it was absolutely incredible to read a Historical Romance with two nonbinary MCs. I loved both Peggy and Orfeo, and would have liked the story to be dual POV just so we could better understand Orfeo's side of things. I enjoyed being in Peggy's head, however, and adored seeing her grow and realize how her dreams and self-expression could coexist. The build up to the romance in the first part of the book was great, but the second half felt clunkier in my opinion, with the I-love-yous seeming to come out of nowhere.
An important and necessary book, and I fully hope we'll see more NB/NB stories in the future. And with that ending, I'm wondering if (and hoping!) we'll get a book for Sir Horley?
Thank you to Montlake via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Something Spectacular is dazzling, campy, and over-the-top, and it was absolutely incredible to read a Historical Romance with two nonbinary MCs. I loved both Peggy and Orfeo, and would have liked the story to be dual POV just so we could better understand Orfeo's side of things. I enjoyed being in Peggy's head, however, and adored seeing her grow and realize how her dreams and self-expression could coexist. The build up to the romance in the first part of the book was great, but the second half felt clunkier in my opinion, with the I-love-yous seeming to come out of nowhere.
An important and necessary book, and I fully hope we'll see more NB/NB stories in the future. And with that ending, I'm wondering if (and hoping!) we'll get a book for Sir Horley?
Thank you to Montlake via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 21, 2023
Holy moly, Something Spectacular has absolutely stolen my big slutty queer heart!! It has:
-two spectacular non-binary/genderfluid leads
- SO MUCH queer found family joy
- theatrical swooning and dramatic pining
- lovely side character parents that support their queer & non-binary child without fail
- sweet healing journeys about letting oneself want what one wants and not settling for what the world tells us we can have
-aaaaaall the hot sex
- Tarleton family shenanigans (romantic adventures like in novels! Kidnapping is the solution to all things!) -and the pineapple house of my dreams!
-two spectacular non-binary/genderfluid leads
- SO MUCH queer found family joy
- theatrical swooning and dramatic pining
- lovely side character parents that support their queer & non-binary child without fail
- sweet healing journeys about letting oneself want what one wants and not settling for what the world tells us we can have
-aaaaaall the hot sex
- Tarleton family shenanigans (romantic adventures like in novels! Kidnapping is the solution to all things!) -and the pineapple house of my dreams!
May 8, 2023
I have a problem with Something series. I had a lot of fun but also felt so much exasperation while reading the first book, and the more time passes, the less I remember the fun and the more I remember my exasperation - in fact, I just went and updated my star rating down because I realized I still feel angry (and a little upset, to be honest) on behalf of the protagonist, who was shitty in his own way, but was made to apologize for his and others' shittiness. So I was kind of apprehensive about Something Spectacular. And I was right to be, but not quite for the reasons I expected.
So, my reaction to this one is tough to describe. Up until a certain point, I was quite honestly bored, because the narrative was meandering and forcing me to spend time with Belle, whom I dislike and who wasn't even the protagonist, just a device to get the protagonist to meet the LI. There's fun stuff - intense queerness, romp/screwball fun, a couple of orgies, some nice family dynamics and (I think) well written gender euphoria/dysphoria scenes. But then there's all the parts that just fail to work for me. A crucial development happens off-page and with no agency from the protagonist other than the seeds she'd sown earlier, in an extremely anti-climactic way. Another plotline, one set up early as significant, basically gets resolved by character changing her mind suddenly and then drops out entirely. The politics get communicated by characters saying something shitty and then getting scolded because that's super fun to read. The Tarleton twins do horrid things and we're supposed to find it at least partly charming and funny. And I just didn't find it funny for much of the story. I was completely out of tune with the tone. Peggy is a vast improvement over Valentine in that she doesn't get the idiot ball from the narrative as much, but honestly, I'd much rather read a book about Bob (who gets introduced and disappears, so I guess I might get my wish, but there's probably other ways the story will annoy me and I should not read it). And Orfeo never seemed quite real to me. And the speed of the ending... That conclusion needed at least another twenty pages and some better buildup to not feel rushed like a student essay submitted at 5 am, day past deadline.
I don't know what's up. It's very Alexis Hall, and I love so many Alexis Hall books, but Something Somethings... they rub me the wrong way so much. Something Spectacular feels underbaked and patchworky. YMMV, others loved this book. I'm just glad I finished, and it was nice to meet Peggy's parents and Bob.
So, my reaction to this one is tough to describe. Up until a certain point, I was quite honestly bored, because the narrative was meandering and forcing me to spend time with Belle, whom I dislike and who wasn't even the protagonist, just a device to get the protagonist to meet the LI. There's fun stuff - intense queerness, romp/screwball fun, a couple of orgies, some nice family dynamics and (I think) well written gender euphoria/dysphoria scenes. But then there's all the parts that just fail to work for me. A crucial development happens off-page and with no agency from the protagonist other than the seeds she'd sown earlier, in an extremely anti-climactic way. Another plotline, one set up early as significant, basically gets resolved by character changing her mind suddenly and then drops out entirely. The politics get communicated by characters saying something shitty and then getting scolded because that's super fun to read. The Tarleton twins do horrid things and we're supposed to find it at least partly charming and funny. And I just didn't find it funny for much of the story. I was completely out of tune with the tone. Peggy is a vast improvement over Valentine in that she doesn't get the idiot ball from the narrative as much, but honestly, I'd much rather read a book about Bob (who gets introduced and disappears, so I guess I might get my wish, but there's probably other ways the story will annoy me and I should not read it). And Orfeo never seemed quite real to me. And the speed of the ending... That conclusion needed at least another twenty pages and some better buildup to not feel rushed like a student essay submitted at 5 am, day past deadline.
I don't know what's up. It's very Alexis Hall, and I love so many Alexis Hall books, but Something Somethings... they rub me the wrong way so much. Something Spectacular feels underbaked and patchworky. YMMV, others loved this book. I'm just glad I finished, and it was nice to meet Peggy's parents and Bob.
April 16, 2023
Fabulous! Queer as hell! MF-ish. RTC
June 8, 2023
A historical romance novel with two non-binary MCs. The writing style is funny and witty and, as always, soo poetic.
However this novel didn't really manage to get me hooked. I am not sure if that is a book problem or a me problem. Maybe it's time to stay away from romance novels for a while.
However this novel didn't really manage to get me hooked. I am not sure if that is a book problem or a me problem. Maybe it's time to stay away from romance novels for a while.
May 26, 2023
I've given this a B at AAR.
Like its predecessor (Something Fabulous), Alexis Hall’s Something Spectacular is a delightful read with some very pertinent observations to make while being a witty, laugh-out-loud funny, campy, over-the-top and unabashedly queer romance that takes place in a very modern “Regency” setting. As with the previous book, “basically everyone in it is LGBTQ+”, the author (in his own words) “plays rather fast and loose with history” and uses modern language, yet it’s a story that wouldn’t work so well as a modern setting. Despite the “fast and loose”-ness, the themes of gender identity, of how to be oneself when not completely sure exactly who that is, what it feels like to inhabit your own skin in a way that makes sense to you, and the restrictive – for women, especially - social norms – play out against a backdrop of societal expectations and attitudes that, while different, are also very familiar.
Peggy Delancey has been the best friend and on-and-off lover of Arabella Tarleton for years. She knows her love is unrequited and has accepted that Belle will never love her back, but Peggy has been in love with her for so long that she doesn’t quite know how to be not in love with her. In a strange way, this in-love-but-not-loved-back is a nice, safe option; this way, Peggy doesn’t have to think about the difficult stuff, about what being in a relationship means, either for her, her partner, or anyone else. But Belle is still looking for The One, and has decided she’s going to fall in love with the famous and flamboyant opera singer, Orfeo. She begs Peggy - who insists she doesn’t ‘art’ - to accompany her to the soirée where Orfeo will be performing and Peggy, although she really isn’t wild about the idea, hasn’t yet learned how to say ‘no’ to Belle about anything, so agrees to go with her.
The trouble really starts when a sceptical Peggy first sets eyes on Orfeo, who is absolutely nothing like she’d expected. They’re absolutely stunning with a look and a style all their own, and their voice is “merciless in its power and perfection like nothing Peggy had ever heard before.” Peggy is completely and utterly captivated, not only by Orfeo’s beauty and incredible talent, but by their uncommon mix of arrogance and vulnerability and by the way they make her feel truly seen. Peggy is also, she realises by the end of the evening, completely and utterly screwed. Not only does she fancy the person her best friend fancies, it appears Orfeo is interested in her and barely noticed Belle at all. Alarm bells start ringing when Belle begs Peggy to visit Orfeo the next day and put in a good word (well, several good words) on her behalf – Peggy desperately wants to see Orfeo again, but how can she even be thinking of spoiling her best friend’s plans for romance? Well, she won’t. Peggy has always been the sensible one, the one who thinks things through and has spent years curbing the worst excesses of the impulsive Tarletons. She is quite capable of paying a visit and speaking to Orfeo on her friend’s behalf, and if they’re not interested in Belle, then that will be an end to the matter.
Although of course, it is no such thing. Talking with Orfeo again only serves to enthrall Peggy even further – and to her surprise it seems that Orfeo is equally smitten. She’s never been anyone’s centre of attention in quite this way before; she’s used to living on the fringes of whatever drama the Tarletons are in the middle of, to being the sort of person who is simply ‘there’, so Orfeo’s desire to really know her is very unexpected.
I liked Peggy from the moment she appeared in Something Fabulous (and if I’m honest, felt sorry for her for having the misfortune to have fallen in love with someone as self-absorbed and reckless as Arabella Tarleton!). She’s definitely the sensible one in this friendship group (the Tarletons, Valentine, Sir Horley), but she has yet to really find her place, to work out that she wants to be the hero of her own story and then to go about becoming that person. Peggy identifies as female although she doesn’t always feel comfortable in her female body; she exists in the world exactly as she is, and I loved that. But she struggles with her desire to be accepted for the entirety of who she is (as what we would today call a non-binary person) while also wanting things – marriage, children – that are more heteronormative. Wanting a home and a family are the only things society expects women to want – how can Peggy have those things and still be her truest self?
The author talks briefly about the presentation of Orfeo – a castrato – in his foreword, explaining that while some castrati did identify as men, others preferred not to and, as Orfeo does, identified in a way that we now recognise as non-binary or genderfluid. Opera singers like Orfeo were the rock stars of their day and Orfeo certainly fits that bill – flamboyant, outrageous and unattainable but tolerated (even exploited) because of their talent. Like Peggy, they live in the world on their own terms, and also like her, they’re something of a prisoner of circumstance. But where Peggy’s prison is more one of her own making because of the role she’s fallen into of being the voice of reason in the lives of others, in Orfeo’s case, the prison is that of the artist needing a patron, and of being lured into believing that they can never have a life outside of music and that an ordinary life and love are beneath them. I liked them and really felt for their situation – caught between (as they see it) great art and great love – but because we never get into their head (Peggy’s is the sole PoV in this book) they’re a bit… remote, so I found it harder to connect with them and found the romance a bit lacking in chemistry as a result.
Mr. Hall’s sense of humour always resonates with me, and his sense of the ridiculous is alive and well, especially in the scene in which Peggy and Orfeo somehow manage to turn a very insipid poetry reading into an orgy (I will never look at a hyacinth in the same way again!) This might be a very un-historical historical romance, but the author clearly knows and understands the genre, taking affectionate side-swipes at its conventions here and there – and I love the way he doesn’t so much break the fourth wall as keep tapping it, checking for weak spots:
“So everyone in the neighbourhood,” put in Bob, “can get excited that Hadwell Hall is let at last?”
“I don’t think they’ll be that excited when they discover it’s been let by me. But,” Peggy offered, “I’ll do my best to insult a young lady at a country dance.”
There’s a great secondary cast; I loved the way Peggy’s parents accept her just as she is, Bonny is as fabulous as ever, Valentine is adoring and long-suffering, and although Arabella is still irritating, she’s been toned down a bit, and I was pleased when she began to realise that perhaps there isn’t anything wrong with her, and to acknowledge her possible aromanticism. Sir Horley is a terrific addition to their found-family unit with his world-weary witticisms and obvious affection for the group, and I really hope his story will be next.
The romance between Peggy and Orfeo is a lovely mix of tenderness, heartbreak, hope and joy, but I can’t deny that it’s a bit ‘insta’, and that the chemistry is a bit lukewarm. That said, these two complement each other really well – Peggy, down-to-earth, pragmatic and generous, is the perfect foil to dazzling, proud, dramatic Orfeo.
Something Spectacular is lively, thought-provoking, funny, heartbreaking and unashamedly silly, and even though the romance didn’t quite hit the spot for me, I enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next in the series.
Like its predecessor (Something Fabulous), Alexis Hall’s Something Spectacular is a delightful read with some very pertinent observations to make while being a witty, laugh-out-loud funny, campy, over-the-top and unabashedly queer romance that takes place in a very modern “Regency” setting. As with the previous book, “basically everyone in it is LGBTQ+”, the author (in his own words) “plays rather fast and loose with history” and uses modern language, yet it’s a story that wouldn’t work so well as a modern setting. Despite the “fast and loose”-ness, the themes of gender identity, of how to be oneself when not completely sure exactly who that is, what it feels like to inhabit your own skin in a way that makes sense to you, and the restrictive – for women, especially - social norms – play out against a backdrop of societal expectations and attitudes that, while different, are also very familiar.
Peggy Delancey has been the best friend and on-and-off lover of Arabella Tarleton for years. She knows her love is unrequited and has accepted that Belle will never love her back, but Peggy has been in love with her for so long that she doesn’t quite know how to be not in love with her. In a strange way, this in-love-but-not-loved-back is a nice, safe option; this way, Peggy doesn’t have to think about the difficult stuff, about what being in a relationship means, either for her, her partner, or anyone else. But Belle is still looking for The One, and has decided she’s going to fall in love with the famous and flamboyant opera singer, Orfeo. She begs Peggy - who insists she doesn’t ‘art’ - to accompany her to the soirée where Orfeo will be performing and Peggy, although she really isn’t wild about the idea, hasn’t yet learned how to say ‘no’ to Belle about anything, so agrees to go with her.
The trouble really starts when a sceptical Peggy first sets eyes on Orfeo, who is absolutely nothing like she’d expected. They’re absolutely stunning with a look and a style all their own, and their voice is “merciless in its power and perfection like nothing Peggy had ever heard before.” Peggy is completely and utterly captivated, not only by Orfeo’s beauty and incredible talent, but by their uncommon mix of arrogance and vulnerability and by the way they make her feel truly seen. Peggy is also, she realises by the end of the evening, completely and utterly screwed. Not only does she fancy the person her best friend fancies, it appears Orfeo is interested in her and barely noticed Belle at all. Alarm bells start ringing when Belle begs Peggy to visit Orfeo the next day and put in a good word (well, several good words) on her behalf – Peggy desperately wants to see Orfeo again, but how can she even be thinking of spoiling her best friend’s plans for romance? Well, she won’t. Peggy has always been the sensible one, the one who thinks things through and has spent years curbing the worst excesses of the impulsive Tarletons. She is quite capable of paying a visit and speaking to Orfeo on her friend’s behalf, and if they’re not interested in Belle, then that will be an end to the matter.
Although of course, it is no such thing. Talking with Orfeo again only serves to enthrall Peggy even further – and to her surprise it seems that Orfeo is equally smitten. She’s never been anyone’s centre of attention in quite this way before; she’s used to living on the fringes of whatever drama the Tarletons are in the middle of, to being the sort of person who is simply ‘there’, so Orfeo’s desire to really know her is very unexpected.
I liked Peggy from the moment she appeared in Something Fabulous (and if I’m honest, felt sorry for her for having the misfortune to have fallen in love with someone as self-absorbed and reckless as Arabella Tarleton!). She’s definitely the sensible one in this friendship group (the Tarletons, Valentine, Sir Horley), but she has yet to really find her place, to work out that she wants to be the hero of her own story and then to go about becoming that person. Peggy identifies as female although she doesn’t always feel comfortable in her female body; she exists in the world exactly as she is, and I loved that. But she struggles with her desire to be accepted for the entirety of who she is (as what we would today call a non-binary person) while also wanting things – marriage, children – that are more heteronormative. Wanting a home and a family are the only things society expects women to want – how can Peggy have those things and still be her truest self?
The author talks briefly about the presentation of Orfeo – a castrato – in his foreword, explaining that while some castrati did identify as men, others preferred not to and, as Orfeo does, identified in a way that we now recognise as non-binary or genderfluid. Opera singers like Orfeo were the rock stars of their day and Orfeo certainly fits that bill – flamboyant, outrageous and unattainable but tolerated (even exploited) because of their talent. Like Peggy, they live in the world on their own terms, and also like her, they’re something of a prisoner of circumstance. But where Peggy’s prison is more one of her own making because of the role she’s fallen into of being the voice of reason in the lives of others, in Orfeo’s case, the prison is that of the artist needing a patron, and of being lured into believing that they can never have a life outside of music and that an ordinary life and love are beneath them. I liked them and really felt for their situation – caught between (as they see it) great art and great love – but because we never get into their head (Peggy’s is the sole PoV in this book) they’re a bit… remote, so I found it harder to connect with them and found the romance a bit lacking in chemistry as a result.
Mr. Hall’s sense of humour always resonates with me, and his sense of the ridiculous is alive and well, especially in the scene in which Peggy and Orfeo somehow manage to turn a very insipid poetry reading into an orgy (I will never look at a hyacinth in the same way again!) This might be a very un-historical historical romance, but the author clearly knows and understands the genre, taking affectionate side-swipes at its conventions here and there – and I love the way he doesn’t so much break the fourth wall as keep tapping it, checking for weak spots:
“So everyone in the neighbourhood,” put in Bob, “can get excited that Hadwell Hall is let at last?”
“I don’t think they’ll be that excited when they discover it’s been let by me. But,” Peggy offered, “I’ll do my best to insult a young lady at a country dance.”
There’s a great secondary cast; I loved the way Peggy’s parents accept her just as she is, Bonny is as fabulous as ever, Valentine is adoring and long-suffering, and although Arabella is still irritating, she’s been toned down a bit, and I was pleased when she began to realise that perhaps there isn’t anything wrong with her, and to acknowledge her possible aromanticism. Sir Horley is a terrific addition to their found-family unit with his world-weary witticisms and obvious affection for the group, and I really hope his story will be next.
The romance between Peggy and Orfeo is a lovely mix of tenderness, heartbreak, hope and joy, but I can’t deny that it’s a bit ‘insta’, and that the chemistry is a bit lukewarm. That said, these two complement each other really well – Peggy, down-to-earth, pragmatic and generous, is the perfect foil to dazzling, proud, dramatic Orfeo.
Something Spectacular is lively, thought-provoking, funny, heartbreaking and unashamedly silly, and even though the romance didn’t quite hit the spot for me, I enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next in the series.
November 6, 2024
One thing I love about Alexis Hall's books is the humor! You will never not catching giggling while listening to the audiobooks. But while I have also been 100% invested in the romance in previous books, this one just didn't draw me in. I was very entertained by the hijinx the characters got up to, the messes they tangled themselves into, etc... but I cared about those things way more than about the romance. I felt like Peggy and Orpheo got too fast too into each other, it felt dramatic but not in a believable way, in a I don't get why these two are pining to death for each other way and that made me a bit sad. Also loved basking in the fact that everyone here was queer. The two main characters are -two different flavors of- non-binary, there is a side m/m couple, an aromantic character and much more from fleating characters, while still acknowledging that the characters live in an accepting bubble for the times, and that the rest of the world might not be as kind to them.
June 29, 2024
Short review: This book made me listen to opera and enjoy it.
No really, I'm in a process of making a playlist of music mentioned in this book and Ombra Mai Fu is living in my head now.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZ6ud...
Longer review: I had a little conflicted feelings about the first book in the series - which was hilarious, but sometimes felt overly harsh on some characters, but I'm happy to announce that this isn't an issue here. The events of the previous book get referenced and I would honestly wish they weren't so much, but otherwise we quite safely moved on and if that's even possible this book is even more hilarious than the first one? I honestly already want to re-read it. I don't have much more to say honestly this book is absolutely bonkers, sexy and one of the queerest things I ever read. Honestly the last sex scene might have been a little too much for me
I also loved that even though there is something like third act breakup the solution to that actually isn't very dramatic and the drama comes mostly from a different part of the story. I don't really want to discuss it further because spoilers, but let's just say that it made sense, even though it didn't feel entirely perfect.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and can't wait for the next book in the series which should be out in December!
No really, I'm in a process of making a playlist of music mentioned in this book and Ombra Mai Fu is living in my head now.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZ6ud...
Longer review: I had a little conflicted feelings about the first book in the series - which was hilarious, but sometimes felt overly harsh on some characters, but I'm happy to announce that this isn't an issue here. The events of the previous book get referenced and I would honestly wish they weren't so much, but otherwise we quite safely moved on and if that's even possible this book is even more hilarious than the first one? I honestly already want to re-read it. I don't have much more to say honestly this book is absolutely bonkers, sexy and one of the queerest things I ever read. Honestly the last sex scene might have been a little too much for me
I also loved that even though there is something like third act breakup the solution to that actually isn't very dramatic and the drama comes mostly from a different part of the story. I don't really want to discuss it further because spoilers, but let's just say that it made sense, even though it didn't feel entirely perfect.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and can't wait for the next book in the series which should be out in December!
February 17, 2024
It will never fail to amaze me how Alexis Hall can write such ridiculous things that are also incredibly emotionally affecting. This book is definitely in the running for the queerest book I've ever read, which is saying something because it's set in Regency England. More thoughts and some of my favorite bits in my Reading Vlog.
July 9, 2023
I liked this a little bit more than I liked book one.
As with Valentine’s book the best thing about this one were the characters, mainly the secondary cast. I loved them all. Even Arabella grew on me. She’s here in a kind of funny ultra-supportive best friend-mode that really improved her whole idea for me.
I want to know more about the Prison’s Duke and Duchesses, I want Sir Howley’s story. Every participant of the poet society was hilarious, I would also love to know more about them. The poor guy who really loved poetry… amazing. Reading Valentine again was of course a treat.
But I think there wasn’t much of a story to tell, so the secondary adventures I completely loved ended up being, sometimes, the only thing that fueled the plot.
Some comedy bits were perfect, I think this book could steal some laughs out of anyone. Listening to the audio version was a plus in this regard. The narrator was incredible playing each role.
I had some problems with the main couple. Orfeo and Peggy were cute, and great, and nice… but that’s nearly it for me. I understood the insta-connection they had, but they went from strangers to being in love too fast. And the book is conscious about it, there are lots of mentions about having met a couple of days ago and already suffering like two Shakespearean characters.
Also, for all the “very unique job and the spectacular person I am” and the “I’m the perfect embodiment of chivalry” style each character had, they ended up both being a little boring.
I saw the romantic resolution from a mile away. And I don’t particularly think this is something bad. But there wasn’t ANY surprise waiting for me by the end… I even saw the twist coming… and Wow, did this scene make me think about my own hetenormative world and mind-limitations (so points for that).
On that note
I liked the book. I love the author’s work💕. And if anyone else is like me, that not only read Hall for the unique romance and tenderness but also for the way some things about our reality are depicted, explained and reformulated, this book is a must.
As with Valentine’s book the best thing about this one were the characters, mainly the secondary cast. I loved them all. Even Arabella grew on me. She’s here in a kind of funny ultra-supportive best friend-mode that really improved her whole idea for me.
I want to know more about the Prison’s Duke and Duchesses, I want Sir Howley’s story. Every participant of the poet society was hilarious, I would also love to know more about them. The poor guy who really loved poetry… amazing. Reading Valentine again was of course a treat.
But I think there wasn’t much of a story to tell, so the secondary adventures I completely loved ended up being, sometimes, the only thing that fueled the plot.
Some comedy bits were perfect, I think this book could steal some laughs out of anyone. Listening to the audio version was a plus in this regard. The narrator was incredible playing each role.
I had some problems with the main couple. Orfeo and Peggy were cute, and great, and nice… but that’s nearly it for me. I understood the insta-connection they had, but they went from strangers to being in love too fast. And the book is conscious about it, there are lots of mentions about having met a couple of days ago and already suffering like two Shakespearean characters.
Also, for all the “very unique job and the spectacular person I am” and the “I’m the perfect embodiment of chivalry” style each character had, they ended up both being a little boring.
I saw the romantic resolution from a mile away. And I don’t particularly think this is something bad. But there wasn’t ANY surprise waiting for me by the end… I even saw the twist coming… and Wow, did this scene make me think about my own hetenormative world and mind-limitations (so points for that).
On that note
I liked the book. I love the author’s work💕. And if anyone else is like me, that not only read Hall for the unique romance and tenderness but also for the way some things about our reality are depicted, explained and reformulated, this book is a must.
February 2, 2023
**ARC received from NetGalley**
I came to this book like to a beautifully arranged piece of music and it had my heart from the very first notes. Like a highly skilled composer, Alexis Hall weaves seamlessly in the different tonal qualities: Here, the delightfully witty humour has the tune, there the deep meaningful reflections and emotional gravitas come to the fore, then a tinkling of desire and magnetic attraction is added to the piece.
In the second instalment of the Something something series of Regency romps, we continue to get to know Peggy Delancey, still in love with a teensy bit dramatic Arabella Tarleton. Where I struggled initially to share that love towards Arabella in the first book, her motives and conflicts are beautifully fleshed out here with the steadying influence of Peggy’s POV. Peggy was such an engaging romance hero whom it was impossible to not root for from the first page. I found all the interactions with Peggy’s found family of Bonny, Valentine and Sir Horley also such a treat. Each character continues to grow here and I was left with a deep wish to continue to read on into the next instalment.
And Orfeo, the devastating, spectacular Orfeo! From their first meeting with Peggy, a solid argument was sketched for why these two and only these two should suit. Prepare yourself for some scenes of heartbreaking intimacy and smouldering desire. As well as nuanced and sensitive ponderings on identity, your place in the eyes of the society, and what a tailored to the individuals happily ever after might look like.
As a slightly epilogue resistant reader, Alexis Hall balanced the ending and a glimpse to their futures just right for me. I found this story deeply moving, wholly engaging, and with a satisfying shift in tone from the balls to the wall hilarity and ridiculousness of Something Fabulous towards the still very funny but with a little more emotional gravitas and obvious thoughtfulness we are served here. Very much an embodiment then of the hero of the book, Peggy, who is the more considerate and cautious and sensible and very very loyal and brave and fearless of this group of friends.
For the love of god, will someone please brush my hair now?!
I came to this book like to a beautifully arranged piece of music and it had my heart from the very first notes. Like a highly skilled composer, Alexis Hall weaves seamlessly in the different tonal qualities: Here, the delightfully witty humour has the tune, there the deep meaningful reflections and emotional gravitas come to the fore, then a tinkling of desire and magnetic attraction is added to the piece.
In the second instalment of the Something something series of Regency romps, we continue to get to know Peggy Delancey, still in love with a teensy bit dramatic Arabella Tarleton. Where I struggled initially to share that love towards Arabella in the first book, her motives and conflicts are beautifully fleshed out here with the steadying influence of Peggy’s POV. Peggy was such an engaging romance hero whom it was impossible to not root for from the first page. I found all the interactions with Peggy’s found family of Bonny, Valentine and Sir Horley also such a treat. Each character continues to grow here and I was left with a deep wish to continue to read on into the next instalment.
And Orfeo, the devastating, spectacular Orfeo! From their first meeting with Peggy, a solid argument was sketched for why these two and only these two should suit. Prepare yourself for some scenes of heartbreaking intimacy and smouldering desire. As well as nuanced and sensitive ponderings on identity, your place in the eyes of the society, and what a tailored to the individuals happily ever after might look like.
As a slightly epilogue resistant reader, Alexis Hall balanced the ending and a glimpse to their futures just right for me. I found this story deeply moving, wholly engaging, and with a satisfying shift in tone from the balls to the wall hilarity and ridiculousness of Something Fabulous towards the still very funny but with a little more emotional gravitas and obvious thoughtfulness we are served here. Very much an embodiment then of the hero of the book, Peggy, who is the more considerate and cautious and sensible and very very loyal and brave and fearless of this group of friends.
For the love of god, will someone please brush my hair now?!
March 20, 2023
Something Spectacular is an exuberant historical romance with two genderfluid leads. Peggy begins the book in deep and unrequited love with her best friend Arabella. She's recently had to accept that Belle will not fall in love with her, and she's trying to juggle heartbreak and being a supportive friend - especially when being a supportive friend means, in Belle's eyes, being a good wingperson.
Belle has decided she wants to fall in love with Orfeo, a star opera singer who happens to be a castrato. The problem? Orfeo is much more interested in Peggy than in Belle. Peggy returns their interest, but acting on it means a double betrayal of Belle: first, by the realization that her love was, in fact, fleeting; and second, because she was only supposed to be talking to Orfeo on behalf of Belle.
Soon, though, the book moves beyond this initial conflict, and Peggy and Orfeo begin a relationship. Hall places them in hilarious situations and just seems to let things unfold. Perhaps our favorite part (definitely the part that made us laugh the most) was when Peggy and Orfeo attend a poetry reading that devolves into an 0rgy.
Hall opens the book with a note acknowledging that it is not meant to be historically accurate. The dialogue is modern, just about every single character is LGBTQ+, and the social mores of the time are glanced at in passing if they're even acknowledged. "Why write a historical romance, then?" you might be wondering. Like our favorites of the genre, the setting is used to highlight contemporary issues and concerns. The marriage restrictive social norms with expansive views of sexuality and an overlay of an almost absurd humor make this a joyful romp to read.
On a final note: we weren't sure what to expect on the spice level, but baby this is SPICY. Holy moly! If you're not fanning yourself at that last chapter, we're just not sure what to say anymore.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Belle has decided she wants to fall in love with Orfeo, a star opera singer who happens to be a castrato. The problem? Orfeo is much more interested in Peggy than in Belle. Peggy returns their interest, but acting on it means a double betrayal of Belle: first, by the realization that her love was, in fact, fleeting; and second, because she was only supposed to be talking to Orfeo on behalf of Belle.
Soon, though, the book moves beyond this initial conflict, and Peggy and Orfeo begin a relationship. Hall places them in hilarious situations and just seems to let things unfold. Perhaps our favorite part (definitely the part that made us laugh the most) was when Peggy and Orfeo attend a poetry reading that devolves into an 0rgy.
Hall opens the book with a note acknowledging that it is not meant to be historically accurate. The dialogue is modern, just about every single character is LGBTQ+, and the social mores of the time are glanced at in passing if they're even acknowledged. "Why write a historical romance, then?" you might be wondering. Like our favorites of the genre, the setting is used to highlight contemporary issues and concerns. The marriage restrictive social norms with expansive views of sexuality and an overlay of an almost absurd humor make this a joyful romp to read.
On a final note: we weren't sure what to expect on the spice level, but baby this is SPICY. Holy moly! If you're not fanning yourself at that last chapter, we're just not sure what to say anymore.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
April 18, 2023
This book is wow. In a good way. I am close to speechless. The ending was the most intense ending of any book in recent memory.
Also, I really savoured this book and read it slowly so I gotta pull my thoughts together. Luckily, I've been taking some notes as I go along so hopefully I can come up with something coherent. The bottom line is that I don't think I would change a thing about this book. There was a moment in the last 20% where I thought that maybe I wanted a little more insight into Orfeo's actions but then I remembered that we got so much character depth and development leading up to that point that I was indeed satisfied. I truly highlighted a solid 50% of the book - so many great lines, things that made me laugh out loud, things that got me thinking and challenged me - it was just so much goodness.
Peggy is possibly my favourite romance hero ever? And the most complex. She is so wonderfully and intricately drawn. I can't think of anyone who compares. And the way she is so taken with Orfeo is enthralling. Who can blame her? Orfeo is enchanting and flawed and vulnerable and strong. As much as it is Peggy's book, I delighted at the deeper view into Belle and Sir Horley and the antics and growth of Bonny and Valentine in a way that felt just right and not forced the way cameos can sometimes feel. However controversial, Belle too is a complicated figure and my sympathy and compassion for her grew exponentially. Now I simply cannot wait for Sir Horley's story. And to see more of some of the new characters. I hope we get to see the whole band of merry misfits in his book.
This book was a delight in a whole different way than Something Fabulous and they are now both dear to my heart.
I received a digital Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley and Montlake in exchange for an honest review.
Also, I really savoured this book and read it slowly so I gotta pull my thoughts together. Luckily, I've been taking some notes as I go along so hopefully I can come up with something coherent. The bottom line is that I don't think I would change a thing about this book. There was a moment in the last 20% where I thought that maybe I wanted a little more insight into Orfeo's actions but then I remembered that we got so much character depth and development leading up to that point that I was indeed satisfied. I truly highlighted a solid 50% of the book - so many great lines, things that made me laugh out loud, things that got me thinking and challenged me - it was just so much goodness.
Peggy is possibly my favourite romance hero ever? And the most complex. She is so wonderfully and intricately drawn. I can't think of anyone who compares. And the way she is so taken with Orfeo is enthralling. Who can blame her? Orfeo is enchanting and flawed and vulnerable and strong. As much as it is Peggy's book, I delighted at the deeper view into Belle and Sir Horley and the antics and growth of Bonny and Valentine in a way that felt just right and not forced the way cameos can sometimes feel. However controversial, Belle too is a complicated figure and my sympathy and compassion for her grew exponentially. Now I simply cannot wait for Sir Horley's story. And to see more of some of the new characters. I hope we get to see the whole band of merry misfits in his book.
This book was a delight in a whole different way than Something Fabulous and they are now both dear to my heart.
I received a digital Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley and Montlake in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2024
Reread via audio April 2023
Oh my goodness, Robyn Holdaway did an amazing job narrating! I think that chapter 21 is one of the best things I've ever heard! They also did exceptionally on the last chapter (iykyk).
I was so happy to see the full version of Craggy Dell, I'm so glad that George got justice, because sonnets are hard.
_____
Received from NetGalley, thank!
This book was absolutely lovely. And so very different from Something Fabulous, while still feeling like you're in the same world. This one is Peggy's story, and while it is from her POV and is about her, there is still lots of great Valentine, Bonny, Belle, and Sir Horley content.
The story starts with Peggy being enlisted by Belle to help her woo Orfeo, a famous castrato opera singer. But instead, Peggy and Orfeo have an instant connection and I really enjoyed seeing how all of that played out. Both Peggy and Orfeo are neither this nor that, and I loved seeing how that allowed them to both be their true selves and to really understand what it was that they wanted, from each other and from their lives.
The ending was not what I was expecting, but I loved it. I loved it so much. The very last chapter could have come across in a certain way, but instead was deeply romantic and so very queer.
Overall, this book was nowhere near as bonkers as I thought Something Fabulous was (though it certainly has it's moments!), but it is extremely queer, even though it's with characters that could probably most easily pass for straight, and all about found family. Orfeo is very OTT, a very flamboyant opera star, and it was so perfect for them; plus, anything to do with the Tartleton twins is going to be a bit bonkers. There is also so much humour in the book, especially at a particular poetry salon. I may never be able to look at hyacinths the same again...
A lot happens over the course of this book, and through all of these situations, it allows Peggy to come more into herself and for Orfeo to see other possibilities for themself, beyond what they thought their life would be. We also get a bit more of a look at Sir Horley's life and backstory, but it's really only a teaser and I truly cannot wait for what's to come there...
I feel kind of like I just want to ramble on and on about this book. It's just so good. Funny, emotional, deeply romantic, with a side helping of bonkers. Also, I cannot wait for the audiobook! I think the narrator is going to be absolutely spectacular.
Oh my goodness, Robyn Holdaway did an amazing job narrating! I think that chapter 21 is one of the best things I've ever heard! They also did exceptionally on the last chapter (iykyk).
I was so happy to see the full version of Craggy Dell, I'm so glad that George got justice, because sonnets are hard.
_____
Received from NetGalley, thank!
This book was absolutely lovely. And so very different from Something Fabulous, while still feeling like you're in the same world. This one is Peggy's story, and while it is from her POV and is about her, there is still lots of great Valentine, Bonny, Belle, and Sir Horley content.
The story starts with Peggy being enlisted by Belle to help her woo Orfeo, a famous castrato opera singer. But instead, Peggy and Orfeo have an instant connection and I really enjoyed seeing how all of that played out. Both Peggy and Orfeo are neither this nor that, and I loved seeing how that allowed them to both be their true selves and to really understand what it was that they wanted, from each other and from their lives.
The ending was not what I was expecting, but I loved it. I loved it so much. The very last chapter could have come across in a certain way, but instead was deeply romantic and so very queer.
Overall, this book was nowhere near as bonkers as I thought Something Fabulous was (though it certainly has it's moments!), but it is extremely queer, even though it's with characters that could probably most easily pass for straight, and all about found family. Orfeo is very OTT, a very flamboyant opera star, and it was so perfect for them; plus, anything to do with the Tartleton twins is going to be a bit bonkers. There is also so much humour in the book, especially at a particular poetry salon. I may never be able to look at hyacinths the same again...
A lot happens over the course of this book, and through all of these situations, it allows Peggy to come more into herself and for Orfeo to see other possibilities for themself, beyond what they thought their life would be. We also get a bit more of a look at Sir Horley's life and backstory, but it's really only a teaser and I truly cannot wait for what's to come there...
I feel kind of like I just want to ramble on and on about this book. It's just so good. Funny, emotional, deeply romantic, with a side helping of bonkers. Also, I cannot wait for the audiobook! I think the narrator is going to be absolutely spectacular.
March 9, 2023
Of course, I loved it, since Alexis Hall is an auto-buy or, in this instance, auto-arc author to me. Loved to meet Valentine and Bonny again, and I loved even more that it was Peggy's story - after Something Fabulous I felt that she deserved her own story and her own happiness. And here we meet them - spectacular Orfeo and what a complicated character they were: dazzling, selfish, vulnerable, proud and dramatic, perfect fit to Peggy's reliability, down-to-earthiness, generosity and loving heart. The story itself is a bit lighter than Something Fabulous, though it retains this absurdly ridiculous (in a funny way) tone, and at the same time touches many sensitive topics. Yes, sometimes it gets messy, but then suddenly everything falls into place. I laughed and cried a bit, sometimes felt dazed and curious, bet mostly I had a smile on my face. 4.5/5
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange of honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange of honest review.
February 19, 2023
While I really enjoyed Something Fabulous, this was even better. Something Spectacular has the humor and absurd moments I’ve come to expect in an Alexis Hall book, but it has so freaking much heart too. It’s at turns poignant, tender, heartbreaking, hopeful, joyful, and beautiful. With both MCs being nonbinary, there are some really profound conversations around what it means to inhabit your own skin vs what your choices might mean to society (and if you can live with that perception or not).
I loved still getting to see Valentine and Bonny and their others friends we met in the last book. Belle wasn’t quite so insufferable (but she’s still my least favorite).
Highly recommend for a wonderfully inclusive AND spicy book!
4.5 stars
Also many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a requested copy to review. All opinions are my own.
I loved still getting to see Valentine and Bonny and their others friends we met in the last book. Belle wasn’t quite so insufferable (but she’s still my least favorite).
Highly recommend for a wonderfully inclusive AND spicy book!
4.5 stars
Also many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a requested copy to review. All opinions are my own.
March 22, 2023
Another thoroughly delightful, hilarious historical romp from Alexis Hall. It also happens to the queerest book I’ve ever read, and one of the most feminist. Watching sensible, forthright Peggy fall head over heels for Orfeo, the most glamorous superstar, while also working out who she is and what she wants, is such a satisfying experience.
And I have to say, a meet cute involving Handel’s Largo is clearly the best meet cute. I mentioned it was funny, didn’t I? Very, very funny. Watch out for the hyacinth.
And I have to say, a meet cute involving Handel’s Largo is clearly the best meet cute. I mentioned it was funny, didn’t I? Very, very funny. Watch out for the hyacinth.
May 1, 2023
DNF at 20%. I have been trying to read this book for over a month and I finally have to throw in the towel. I really enjoyed Something Fabulous, minus the insufferable Arabella. Unfortunately, the first 20% of Something Spectacular has a lot of Arabella and her shenanigans and I just can’t take it anymore. I’m seeing a lot of reviews in which readers are saying it took a while for them to get out of Arabella’s orbit and into the Peggy / Orfeo romance, so perhaps I will try to take another stab at this book in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for this ARC
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for this ARC
March 23, 2023
Something Spectacular by Alexis Hall
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC
I got this ARC several weeks ago and I’ve been hoarding it like a dragon with gold. I finally succumbed and read it, and it was as funny and delightful as I was hoping!
This book follows the excellent Something Fabulous, and I was so thrilled to have so many moments with Bonny and Valentine. I don’t think it’s essential to read it first, but I would highly recommend it!
Something Spectacular is written in the same fun, over-the-top style as its predecessor. Full of zany humour, characters being Extra, Tarletons being Extra Extra, everyone is queer, bonkers situations, etc.
This book follows Peggy as she falls in love with Orfeo, a castrato opera singer. The book does a lot to interrogate gender and sexuality, and the multitude of ways these can be expressed. Peggy struggles with her desire to be seen and accepted as fully herself as a non binary person, while also desiring things that are perceived as more normative, and working out how those things can co-exist. I really loved seeing her HEA.
I really enjoyed the love story between Peggy and Orfeo, how they were pulled to each other right off the bat, and the ways they overcame different obstacles to be together in the end. I did not know anything about castratos going into this book, and I appreciated the way this aspect of Orfeo’s life was handled with sensitivity and care.
As is always the case in books by Hall, the big group scenes were a major highlight. The secondary characters were excellent. I was among those who were not super fans of Belle in the first book, and I really appreciated getting to know her more in this book. Sir Horley continues to be the BEST.
Recommended if you’re looking for a super queer, super funny historical romance!
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC
I got this ARC several weeks ago and I’ve been hoarding it like a dragon with gold. I finally succumbed and read it, and it was as funny and delightful as I was hoping!
This book follows the excellent Something Fabulous, and I was so thrilled to have so many moments with Bonny and Valentine. I don’t think it’s essential to read it first, but I would highly recommend it!
Something Spectacular is written in the same fun, over-the-top style as its predecessor. Full of zany humour, characters being Extra, Tarletons being Extra Extra, everyone is queer, bonkers situations, etc.
This book follows Peggy as she falls in love with Orfeo, a castrato opera singer. The book does a lot to interrogate gender and sexuality, and the multitude of ways these can be expressed. Peggy struggles with her desire to be seen and accepted as fully herself as a non binary person, while also desiring things that are perceived as more normative, and working out how those things can co-exist. I really loved seeing her HEA.
I really enjoyed the love story between Peggy and Orfeo, how they were pulled to each other right off the bat, and the ways they overcame different obstacles to be together in the end. I did not know anything about castratos going into this book, and I appreciated the way this aspect of Orfeo’s life was handled with sensitivity and care.
As is always the case in books by Hall, the big group scenes were a major highlight. The secondary characters were excellent. I was among those who were not super fans of Belle in the first book, and I really appreciated getting to know her more in this book. Sir Horley continues to be the BEST.
Recommended if you’re looking for a super queer, super funny historical romance!
May 30, 2023
Thank you SO MUCH to Montlake and Netgalley for providing an advanced copy of this! All thoughts and opinions ares till my own.
This was FUCKING DELIGHTFUL!! Definitely a favorite of the year.
Every time I go into an Alexis Hall book I know I'm in for something great. But this one absolutely blew me away.
The first book in this series was such a fun time. It was light hearted and quirky and absolutely hilarious. This second book, maintained all those things but had so much heart and impact to it.
The way this handled gender and love was stunning. And I was left head over heels in love with these characters. Neither character follows gender norms, and I don't think anyone handles those topics as expertly as Alexis Hall.
I loved all of the discussions about love, expectations, and society surrounding their romance not only amongst themselves, but with their friends and loved ones as well.
There are so many obstacles that these 2 had to overcome, not only in the way society would see them, but with their own biases and expectations as well.
And finally -- that epilogue. Did not see that coming and hats off to Alexis Hall for getting my jaw to drop on the floor.
I listened to this on audio, which was fantastically done, and I loved getting to hear all the Italian and accents as they were meant to be read. I highly recommend!
This was FUCKING DELIGHTFUL!! Definitely a favorite of the year.
Every time I go into an Alexis Hall book I know I'm in for something great. But this one absolutely blew me away.
The first book in this series was such a fun time. It was light hearted and quirky and absolutely hilarious. This second book, maintained all those things but had so much heart and impact to it.
The way this handled gender and love was stunning. And I was left head over heels in love with these characters. Neither character follows gender norms, and I don't think anyone handles those topics as expertly as Alexis Hall.
I loved all of the discussions about love, expectations, and society surrounding their romance not only amongst themselves, but with their friends and loved ones as well.
There are so many obstacles that these 2 had to overcome, not only in the way society would see them, but with their own biases and expectations as well.
And finally -- that epilogue. Did not see that coming and hats off to Alexis Hall for getting my jaw to drop on the floor.
I listened to this on audio, which was fantastically done, and I loved getting to hear all the Italian and accents as they were meant to be read. I highly recommend!
July 22, 2024
4.5 stars
I shouldn't have waited so long to read this it was great! I think I was worried because I couldn't stand Bella's character in the first book and for some reason I thought she was an MC in this one. But she's not, she is still a SC and actually she goes through a pretty good redemption arc.
Anyway... Peggy is the star of this one and I absolutely loved her (Peggy is non-binary and uses she/her pronouns). Orfeo is a non-binary castrato opera singer who uses they/them pronouns, and they are wonderful as well, although I do wish we got to see a little more from them. I would have loved some chapters from Orfeo's POV, but that's just me.
Just like Something Fabulous, Something Spectacular is laugh out loud funny and a bit ridiculous at times, but also has a lot of heart and addresses some big important topics like what it means to accept yourself, etc.
On a side note:
I shouldn't have waited so long to read this it was great! I think I was worried because I couldn't stand Bella's character in the first book and for some reason I thought she was an MC in this one. But she's not, she is still a SC and actually she goes through a pretty good redemption arc.
Anyway... Peggy is the star of this one and I absolutely loved her (Peggy is non-binary and uses she/her pronouns). Orfeo is a non-binary castrato opera singer who uses they/them pronouns, and they are wonderful as well, although I do wish we got to see a little more from them. I would have loved some chapters from Orfeo's POV, but that's just me.
Just like Something Fabulous, Something Spectacular is laugh out loud funny and a bit ridiculous at times, but also has a lot of heart and addresses some big important topics like what it means to accept yourself, etc.
On a side note:
March 24, 2024
I loved this one even more than Something Fabulous! I just felt so seen by Peggy. Her and Orfeo have the funnest and absolute sweetest dynamic, I ADORE THEM.
And the poetry salon?? Please I was CACKLING. This entire book was full of heart, hilarious moments, and the smut?? So, so good. (There’s a pegging scene, I’m just saying 👀)
P. S. Highly recommend the audiobook, it’s incredible!
And the poetry salon?? Please I was CACKLING. This entire book was full of heart, hilarious moments, and the smut?? So, so good. (There’s a pegging scene, I’m just saying 👀)
P. S. Highly recommend the audiobook, it’s incredible!
2023
October 22, 2025Pride TBR
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake
July 9, 2023
Peggy had not come out tonight seeking a glimpse of the numinous, but the numinous was staring right at her regardless.
4.5 stars. This was just so joyful. Like, I can't think of anything to say other than how happy this book made me. Alexis Hall has a style and wit and flare to his writing that I will always love, and he manages to bring that to historical romance in a way that never feels out of place or mismatched. Like the first book, this has what some people might call a few anachronisms, and it might seem a bit modern, but it's an approach that's explained in an author's note at the start. I do like the way that the characters are just allowed to inhabit their world, not without any problems, but with the love and support of most of the people around them. Bigotry exists, but it's mostly tangential to their story.
Peggy and Orfeo are complete darlings. Not a lot of time passes in the first part of the book when they meet and start getting to know each other and fall for each other, and then there seems to be a lot of time covered in just a few chapters in the latter half of the book. That's not a formula that I usually enjoy, but I was genuinely swept away by the romance. They were so lovely together. The meet-cute was immaculate. Peggy is so dashing and good-hearted and sweet-minded, and also so relatable. Orfeo could charm the daylights out of anyone, and all of their flirting and banter genuinely had me giggling. And the way their voice and their effect on Peggy is described... gah! It isn't quite insta-love, but it comes very close to it. So I was surprised to find that I didn't really mind it? But Alexis Hall can sell me on most things, so I guess I wasn't that surprised. Even if it was fast, I did feel like they built up a genuine connection, not just because of the commonalities around their struggles with gender and the way that they are perceived by the world, but because of their goodness and strength, their sense of humour and sensibilities. They felt like such an amazing match together. And god, this book made me laugh so much. There were so many lines, so many scenes that just had me grinning. The poetry salon is one of my favourite things that I've ever read in literature. And Hall's writing was just as characteristically unique and beautiful, imbued with all of the loveliness and painfulness of falling in love. There were so many wonderful lines, especially when they paralleled the Orpheus myth... augh!
“That is what music is, you know.” Orfeo had not moved their hand. “The only force in the universe at whose feet language will lay her crown.”
There was one thing that I didn't like, or that bothered me a little bit, and that was But I was really glad that Bonny and Valentine made appearances, and the rest of the cast got meaningful arcs and plots. I do love Belle, infuriating as she can be. I do hope that there will be another book in this series, because the way things left off with one character made my heart hurt.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Robyn Holdaway, and it was sublime. I can't call myself an expert on Italian accents, but their voice for Orfeo was really wonderful, so charming and fun, and they brought all of the other characters to life admirably. They were the perfect voice for Peggy especially, who is a perfect mix of sweet and debonair and sarcastic. Great job all around. Alexis Hall never really misses for me, and this was no exception.
“You deserve someone nice.”
At this she rolled her eyes. “Fuck nice. I deserve someone spectacular.”
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