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Duty & Magic #2
Earl Hathbury's Vessel
After years of cruelty, how do you learn to trust? To love?
It may be 2022, but the modern world has done nothing to protect me.
I live in the world of the British nobility, a secret society of magic, mages and vessels.
There are strict rules and customs and no freedom at all.
My name is Charlie, but to society, I’m just a vessel. A person who grows and absorbs magic within them, but cannot wield it.
As tradition dictates, on my eighteenth birthday, I was given to a mage. From that day onwards, every seven days for four long years, Earl Rathbone took my body to take my magic.
Earl Rathbone was a cruel and harsh master. But it was ‘the done thing’ and society turned a blind eye to my mistreatment.
Until the earl’s son finally intervened and whisked me away. Sending me to Archie. The Earl of Hathbury.
Archie is kind and sweet. The man loves books nearly as much as I do. He is nothing like Earl Rathbone.
Yet, giving Archie my body and my magic is daunting. But it is my duty and a necessity. As a vessel, I need a mage to regularly empty me or I could die.
To my great relief, Archie is understanding and gentle, and it’s not long before I start to fall for him. Finding my duty more of a pleasure.
Archie seems to enjoy our time together more than is proper, and I am hopeful.
But can Archie be trusted? Is he really safe? Will I ever be truly free?
High angst. Medium heat. Happy ever after guaranteed.
Please note, this book contains dark themes including on-page punishment and abuse (not between main characters).
It may be 2022, but the modern world has done nothing to protect me.
I live in the world of the British nobility, a secret society of magic, mages and vessels.
There are strict rules and customs and no freedom at all.
My name is Charlie, but to society, I’m just a vessel. A person who grows and absorbs magic within them, but cannot wield it.
As tradition dictates, on my eighteenth birthday, I was given to a mage. From that day onwards, every seven days for four long years, Earl Rathbone took my body to take my magic.
Earl Rathbone was a cruel and harsh master. But it was ‘the done thing’ and society turned a blind eye to my mistreatment.
Until the earl’s son finally intervened and whisked me away. Sending me to Archie. The Earl of Hathbury.
Archie is kind and sweet. The man loves books nearly as much as I do. He is nothing like Earl Rathbone.
Yet, giving Archie my body and my magic is daunting. But it is my duty and a necessity. As a vessel, I need a mage to regularly empty me or I could die.
To my great relief, Archie is understanding and gentle, and it’s not long before I start to fall for him. Finding my duty more of a pleasure.
Archie seems to enjoy our time together more than is proper, and I am hopeful.
But can Archie be trusted? Is he really safe? Will I ever be truly free?
High angst. Medium heat. Happy ever after guaranteed.
Please note, this book contains dark themes including on-page punishment and abuse (not between main characters).
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2022
202 people are currently reading
285 people want to read
About the author
S. Rodman
37 books312 followersI love characters who are battered and broken by life, who through the course of finding love, discover they are strong.
Despite everything, because of everything, I will always believe that love conquers all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 6, 2022
2.5 stars. An okay book but with some writing/editing issues. I don't understand why this book was in first person when the first book in the series was in third person, and the imbalance between the POVs made me wonder why Archie even had a POV. The characters were nice enough, if a bit bland, and the plot had some twists that were interesting and some that came a bit too much out of nowhere. Unfortunately it also had one of my silliest but not ignorable pet peeve in romance books: .
December 29, 2023
Goodness! I hope dude wasn't his nephew. That is all kinds of wrong. I know it was hinted at that these vessels come from mage lineages. Being that they are rare. Every mage wants one. Within this same community, vessels are misused. It's all hush, hush until something happens. That would expose them, all. Then the Council steps in. You know it benefits their power over the whole mage community.
So Ken is experimenting with what a vessel can do. Archie had a portal in his basement. Black magic was used to open it. The former Earl is cooking his own dinner. While his father is still a major thorn in their lives.
Good times! Now with the internet not working. I had already qued up the next book. Thank goodness to farsighted and going for a ride to the neighboring community. Their internet is working just fine. Rural communities always gets a raw deal.
So Ken is experimenting with what a vessel can do. Archie had a portal in his basement. Black magic was used to open it. The former Earl is cooking his own dinner. While his father is still a major thorn in their lives.
Good times! Now with the internet not working. I had already qued up the next book. Thank goodness to farsighted and going for a ride to the neighboring community. Their internet is working just fine. Rural communities always gets a raw deal.
August 21, 2022
3.5
This was lovely. Angsty and tough, but also deeply, sweetly romantic and hopeful. I really loved Charlie and Archie together, and after reading that brief snippet of book three at the end, I'm beyond excited for that!
This was lovely. Angsty and tough, but also deeply, sweetly romantic and hopeful. I really loved Charlie and Archie together, and after reading that brief snippet of book three at the end, I'm beyond excited for that!
July 17, 2022
Earl Hathbury's Vessel was a bit of a surprise.
I'd rate this 4.5 because of the lack of communication between the pair at one point.
Compared to the previous books, this was actually very sweet. There's still steam in there, it's natural because of the magic system, but it's toned down because of how Charlie has been treated.
There's an almost SA scene so please be aware of this. There's also allusions to previous abuse and Charlie is punished on page. None of these are gratuitous and factor into the plot.
Archie and Charlie were very likeable and I enjoyed cameos from Fen and Zander. The introduction to book 3's mc was nicely done, making me curious about him. There's a sneak peek into his book and it helps tie this series into the greater world the author is building where the books are lightly connected.
I'd rate this 4.5 because of the lack of communication between the pair at one point.
Compared to the previous books, this was actually very sweet. There's still steam in there, it's natural because of the magic system, but it's toned down because of how Charlie has been treated.
There's an almost SA scene so please be aware of this. There's also allusions to previous abuse and Charlie is punished on page. None of these are gratuitous and factor into the plot.
Archie and Charlie were very likeable and I enjoyed cameos from Fen and Zander. The introduction to book 3's mc was nicely done, making me curious about him. There's a sneak peek into his book and it helps tie this series into the greater world the author is building where the books are lightly connected.
August 14, 2022
Fantastic book - really enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next one which should be very interesting.
November 7, 2022
Enjoyable but flawed
I liked the story and the worldbuilding. I wish the author had hired an editor - I only just made it through the first couple of chapters due to all the mistakes and grammatical awkwardness. I'm glad I did, but it didn't get much better through the whole book.
I liked the story and the worldbuilding. I wish the author had hired an editor - I only just made it through the first couple of chapters due to all the mistakes and grammatical awkwardness. I'm glad I did, but it didn't get much better through the whole book.
August 22, 2024
Came here for a smutty MM hurt/comfort read that made my heart squeeze. 10/10 did deliver.
This is not a literary masterpiece, but a filthy little treat, and my 5⭐️'s reflect that 😅
This is not a literary masterpiece, but a filthy little treat, and my 5⭐️'s reflect that 😅
July 19, 2022
Great follow on from Lord Garringtons Vessel. It's nice to see where Charlie ends up, especially after reading about the abuse he suffered in the previous book. A little bit heavy on the angst, so if your after a gentle love story, this is not the book for you. However, if you prefer your storys a little more on the edgy side & don't mind reading about abuse (off & on page) then this book has plenty of substance to keep you wanting to turn the next page.
ARC Review.
ARC Review.
August 16, 2022
4.5 stars. Charles/Charlie Lidford is twenty-two when he can escape his cruel master with the help of Lord Garrington.
Charlie is a vessel, he absorbs magic but can’t do anything with it. He has to be emptied regularly or he would die, through sexual activity, a master can take his magic and empty him. His old master was abusive and cruel, Charlie is afraid of what the new master will give him.
Earl Hathbury made the promise to take Charlie in, hide him and take care of him. The quite informal earl Archibald/Archie Montgomery is stunned by the beauty of this very shy vessel. He wants to comfort him, only the guy is so skittish.
Obviously, he’s been through so much hurt, that Archie has to treat him with much patience and care. Why doesn’t Charlie like him, it hurts to see him with horror in his eyes.
Events are happening and it made for it Charlie even more difficult to trust Archie. The dark things he seems to do are crushing Charlie. His love for Archie is built on sand, he’ll never be his lover, he’s just using him for his magic. Oh, sweet Charlie, if you only knew!
My freaking goodness this was exactly the hurt comfort I loved dearly, I could feel the pain in my bones. It’s not just on a few pages, it continues on and on, awesome, I couldn’t get enough of it.
While it’s a fantasy story, the fantasy was not always prominent present, sometimes I forgot it was a fantasy read. Then, suddenly there was magic, overwhelming magic, portals, spells to protect, awesomely done! It’s not a complicated read, it was mostly focused on Charlie and Archie, and that’s what I loved so much about this story!
Maybe because it’s one of my favorite content, but probably more because it was entertainingly and engagingly written, this story gave me so much pleasure! I drank it all greedy until it was finished and I was left very satisfied.
Yes, for me, a winner in this genre!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Charlie is a vessel, he absorbs magic but can’t do anything with it. He has to be emptied regularly or he would die, through sexual activity, a master can take his magic and empty him. His old master was abusive and cruel, Charlie is afraid of what the new master will give him.
Earl Hathbury made the promise to take Charlie in, hide him and take care of him. The quite informal earl Archibald/Archie Montgomery is stunned by the beauty of this very shy vessel. He wants to comfort him, only the guy is so skittish.
Obviously, he’s been through so much hurt, that Archie has to treat him with much patience and care. Why doesn’t Charlie like him, it hurts to see him with horror in his eyes.
Events are happening and it made for it Charlie even more difficult to trust Archie. The dark things he seems to do are crushing Charlie. His love for Archie is built on sand, he’ll never be his lover, he’s just using him for his magic. Oh, sweet Charlie, if you only knew!
My freaking goodness this was exactly the hurt comfort I loved dearly, I could feel the pain in my bones. It’s not just on a few pages, it continues on and on, awesome, I couldn’t get enough of it.
While it’s a fantasy story, the fantasy was not always prominent present, sometimes I forgot it was a fantasy read. Then, suddenly there was magic, overwhelming magic, portals, spells to protect, awesomely done! It’s not a complicated read, it was mostly focused on Charlie and Archie, and that’s what I loved so much about this story!
Maybe because it’s one of my favorite content, but probably more because it was entertainingly and engagingly written, this story gave me so much pleasure! I drank it all greedy until it was finished and I was left very satisfied.
Yes, for me, a winner in this genre!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
July 28, 2022
I was a fan of Rodman's earlier work, Lord Garrington's Vessel, so when an ARC of the sequel came out I jumped at the opportunity to read it for free in exchange for an honest review.
Charles Lidford is a vessel, a person who cannot use magic but has the ability to hold it within them. Vessels are then drained of this magic periodically by a mage through intercourse. When it is discovered that the mage Charlie has been serving for the last four years is abusing him, he is taken in secret to another mage to keep hidden.
Archibald Montgomery the third, Earl of Hathbury, is nothing like Charlie's previous master. Archie is kind and sweet, and seems to be too good to be true. His kindness confuses Charlie, who has only known mages to be cruel before now. Could he finally have the safe, loving home he wishes for?
I thought this book did a nice job fleshing out the story with a bit more world building. Readers are able to see more about how vessels are generally mistreated and abused, and it's hinted that they may have more power than mages have told them.
The story focuses on Charlie and Archie fumbling through the first weeks of their relationship. It's quite cute at times because they are both a bit awkward, and frustrating at others when misunderstandings lead to hurt feelings on both sides.
I loved Charlie, and rooted for him to grow stronger and defend himself. Archie is so soft with him, which is well deserved.
**Very slight spoilers ahead**
My only critique is that I wanted a bit more backbone from both main characters. They end up doing what is right for them, when opportunity arises for them to do good for all vessels. I'm hoping more comes from that possibility in the third book.
I highly recommend this book, especially if you enjoyed the first.
I give it 4.5/5 stars, rounded up.
Charles Lidford is a vessel, a person who cannot use magic but has the ability to hold it within them. Vessels are then drained of this magic periodically by a mage through intercourse. When it is discovered that the mage Charlie has been serving for the last four years is abusing him, he is taken in secret to another mage to keep hidden.
Archibald Montgomery the third, Earl of Hathbury, is nothing like Charlie's previous master. Archie is kind and sweet, and seems to be too good to be true. His kindness confuses Charlie, who has only known mages to be cruel before now. Could he finally have the safe, loving home he wishes for?
I thought this book did a nice job fleshing out the story with a bit more world building. Readers are able to see more about how vessels are generally mistreated and abused, and it's hinted that they may have more power than mages have told them.
The story focuses on Charlie and Archie fumbling through the first weeks of their relationship. It's quite cute at times because they are both a bit awkward, and frustrating at others when misunderstandings lead to hurt feelings on both sides.
I loved Charlie, and rooted for him to grow stronger and defend himself. Archie is so soft with him, which is well deserved.
**Very slight spoilers ahead**
My only critique is that I wanted a bit more backbone from both main characters. They end up doing what is right for them, when opportunity arises for them to do good for all vessels. I'm hoping more comes from that possibility in the third book.
I highly recommend this book, especially if you enjoyed the first.
I give it 4.5/5 stars, rounded up.
October 7, 2023
Another one of the romance novels on sale and one I didn't realise was second in the series! While it didn't affect my enjoyment of the book too much, there was a cameo of the couple from the first book and it was generally assumed you knew their story so it would have probably made a little more sense if I had read the first book first.
This book is about Charlie, a man who has grown up knowing he would be a vessel (someone whose magic builds up inside of them but can only 'give' it to others) and what that would entail. Every week he has to have sex with someone so they can take the magic otherwise he burns up from the inside out. He runs away from the guy who may be his father but also has sex with him every week and into the arms of Archie, Earl Hathbury. He stays, mostly because he didn't think that he had barely seven days to find a magical guy to have sex with, and then there is drama about why Archie gives him so much attention and about his fellow vessels and dark magic.
Again, I did like this book but mostly for the premise, which could have been very angsty and dramatic but unfortunately turned more cutesy at times. Charlie is quiet and withdrawn and disbelieves that Archie could love him to an almost cartoonish degree. I don't disbelieve that he'll feel like that with his history (guy is in a fuck-or-die scenario every week for four years with his possible biological father and has no choice about who he has sex with) but it felt like the narrative was focused on Charlie's relationship woes and then only barely mentioning the other issues he'll probably have. I mean, if any character needs therapy, Charlie does.
So while I didn't completely like how the characters were developed in this novel, I am very interested in the premise and think I would read others in this series (though maybe when they're on KU or something).
3 stars!
This book is about Charlie, a man who has grown up knowing he would be a vessel (someone whose magic builds up inside of them but can only 'give' it to others) and what that would entail. Every week he has to have sex with someone so they can take the magic otherwise he burns up from the inside out. He runs away from the guy who may be his father but also has sex with him every week and into the arms of Archie, Earl Hathbury. He stays, mostly because he didn't think that he had barely seven days to find a magical guy to have sex with, and then there is drama about why Archie gives him so much attention and about his fellow vessels and dark magic.
Again, I did like this book but mostly for the premise, which could have been very angsty and dramatic but unfortunately turned more cutesy at times. Charlie is quiet and withdrawn and disbelieves that Archie could love him to an almost cartoonish degree. I don't disbelieve that he'll feel like that with his history (guy is in a fuck-or-die scenario every week for four years with his possible biological father and has no choice about who he has sex with) but it felt like the narrative was focused on Charlie's relationship woes and then only barely mentioning the other issues he'll probably have. I mean, if any character needs therapy, Charlie does.
So while I didn't completely like how the characters were developed in this novel, I am very interested in the premise and think I would read others in this series (though maybe when they're on KU or something).
3 stars!
August 14, 2022
Enjoyable follow up
I enjoyed this follow up book in this series with a very different type of premise. The story features Lord Hathbury and Charles Lidford who was in the first book. The idea of Regency type marriage agreements combined with magic and “vessels” who store that magic is unique to say the least and S. Rodman does a great job of exploring the relationships that come from this system, both good and bad. There is some bad stuff and a lot of worry on Charlie’s part after four years with a very nasty mage but the book overall isn’t terribly dark. The back and forth between the two main characters is well written and their relationship stumbles along in a very upper crust English type of “let’s not talk about it” fashion. My only complaint would be that I would love more in these stories about the broader situation in the magic and mundane world because most of the book focuses only on the two main characters. That’s just me maybe because I love more of a continuing backstory. Other than that this is a marvelous read that I had lots of fun galloping through because I just had to find out what happened. And now to read it again slower to appreciate the details.
I enjoyed this follow up book in this series with a very different type of premise. The story features Lord Hathbury and Charles Lidford who was in the first book. The idea of Regency type marriage agreements combined with magic and “vessels” who store that magic is unique to say the least and S. Rodman does a great job of exploring the relationships that come from this system, both good and bad. There is some bad stuff and a lot of worry on Charlie’s part after four years with a very nasty mage but the book overall isn’t terribly dark. The back and forth between the two main characters is well written and their relationship stumbles along in a very upper crust English type of “let’s not talk about it” fashion. My only complaint would be that I would love more in these stories about the broader situation in the magic and mundane world because most of the book focuses only on the two main characters. That’s just me maybe because I love more of a continuing backstory. Other than that this is a marvelous read that I had lots of fun galloping through because I just had to find out what happened. And now to read it again slower to appreciate the details.
July 14, 2022
I was given this arc in exchange for an honest review. Please note this review contains minor spoilers if you have not read Lord Garrington's Vessel (which I would recommend doing first!)
This book picks up the story of Charlie who we met under awful circumstances in the first Duty & Magic book: Lord Garrington's Vessel. It starts with the moment Charlie escapes Earl Rathbone with Xander's help.
I liked this book because it was great to see the continuation of Charlie's story in a more positive direction. His chemistry with Archie (Earl Hathbury) is somehow both super sweet & super hot at the same time! There are bumps along the road to their HEA of course but just know that they get there. We also get introduced to a new Vessel (Eban) who will be the MMC in the next Duty & Magic book - I'm already dying to know his story!
This book is perfect for anyone who liked the first Duty & Magic book (Lord Garrington's Vessel) or any of S.Rodman's other MM PRN books. Good pacing, very steamy & overall an enjoyable read. Please check the author's content/trigger warnings before you read.
This book picks up the story of Charlie who we met under awful circumstances in the first Duty & Magic book: Lord Garrington's Vessel. It starts with the moment Charlie escapes Earl Rathbone with Xander's help.
I liked this book because it was great to see the continuation of Charlie's story in a more positive direction. His chemistry with Archie (Earl Hathbury) is somehow both super sweet & super hot at the same time! There are bumps along the road to their HEA of course but just know that they get there. We also get introduced to a new Vessel (Eban) who will be the MMC in the next Duty & Magic book - I'm already dying to know his story!
This book is perfect for anyone who liked the first Duty & Magic book (Lord Garrington's Vessel) or any of S.Rodman's other MM PRN books. Good pacing, very steamy & overall an enjoyable read. Please check the author's content/trigger warnings before you read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2022
Firstly, I am a huge fan of S. Rodman. I love angsty stories where either/both MC has lived a rough life and survived. The characters are always a joy to read about. Rodman has a great way of writing where the story is easy to follow and (unfortunately for me) they are usually approximately 200 pages so they're a one-sitting read for me. All in all, great author for some easy, entertaining reads.
About Earl Hathbury's Vessel. Is this my new favourite by S. Rodman? It just might be.
I've previously been obsessed with Evil Omega as Silas is one of my top favourites ever, but... Charlie's story is amazing. I like the characters, the story, the plot. This is all top notch. The balance of character-arch and plot is sublime.
You get the angst, the hurt, the feels, but you also get to see two such lil' cutie patootie cinnamon rolls in the main characters.
If you like emotional stories, you'll definitely like this.
Note; This is not a creation that will win a Noble literature prize, but it's entertaining with a cute story.
About Earl Hathbury's Vessel. Is this my new favourite by S. Rodman? It just might be.
I've previously been obsessed with Evil Omega as Silas is one of my top favourites ever, but... Charlie's story is amazing. I like the characters, the story, the plot. This is all top notch. The balance of character-arch and plot is sublime.
You get the angst, the hurt, the feels, but you also get to see two such lil' cutie patootie cinnamon rolls in the main characters.
If you like emotional stories, you'll definitely like this.
Note; This is not a creation that will win a Noble literature prize, but it's entertaining with a cute story.
August 23, 2024
After years of cruelty, how do you learn to trust? To love? On Charlie's eighteenth birthday, they gave him to a mage. From that day onwards, every seven days for four long years, he took his body to take his magic. Until someone stole me away and gave me to Archie. The Earl of Hathbury, Archie is kind, yet giving him his body, and magic is daunting to Charlie. But it is his duty and a necessity. As a vessel, he needs a mage to regularly empty him or he could die. Archie is understanding and gentle, and it’s not long before he falls for him and his duty more of a pleasure. Archie also seems to enjoy their time together more than is proper, and he is hopeful. But can he trust him? Is he safe and can he ever be truly free?
I enjoyed this story which started in the previous book. Archie and Calie seemed to both be quiet and shy which made them them the perfect match. As always there are misunderstandings and confusion but once they were sorted out it was great to see them both so happy. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I enjoyed this story which started in the previous book. Archie and Calie seemed to both be quiet and shy which made them them the perfect match. As always there are misunderstandings and confusion but once they were sorted out it was great to see them both so happy. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
July 25, 2022
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. I knew I would love this book, after all he got a glimpse of the shy timid Charlie When Fen had drawn Lord Garrington attention to Charlie's mistreatment. Watching Charlie come to life was amazingly moving adventure.
Seeing what that Lord Ratbat has done to poor Charlie. Knowing and seeing, just how young and scared the man was should haven been proof to just how broken old magi ways was. It's know wonder comforting the beautiful man wasn't an issues, Charlie is finally starting to find his footing in his new life. Can Archie protect him from the history of Hathbury families past? World's shattered, when Charlie suspects something is up. Archie needs to fix the grave miscommunication between them because Charlie is questioning an error in his judgment where Archie is involved. Who will Charlie turn to for help Fen and Xander or the new wonderfully delightful friend Eban.
Seeing what that Lord Ratbat has done to poor Charlie. Knowing and seeing, just how young and scared the man was should haven been proof to just how broken old magi ways was. It's know wonder comforting the beautiful man wasn't an issues, Charlie is finally starting to find his footing in his new life. Can Archie protect him from the history of Hathbury families past? World's shattered, when Charlie suspects something is up. Archie needs to fix the grave miscommunication between them because Charlie is questioning an error in his judgment where Archie is involved. Who will Charlie turn to for help Fen and Xander or the new wonderfully delightful friend Eban.
August 31, 2022
Earl Hathbury's Vessel is an intriguing hurt-comfort story set in a world that is an interesting twist on the omegaverse trope. In this alternate universe, wizards must obtain their magic from a certain group of people who themselves collect magic but cannot wield it. The resulting power structure of wizards essentially owning vessels is ripe with abuse, and Charlie hopes he has escaped his abusive wizard for good. The quiet and charming Earl Hathbury seems the perfect refuge for Charlie, until Charlie discovers a dark force at play in his new home. The love story is both sweet and heartwrenching as the reader is sucked into Charlie's fears. The author has introduced a unique world and magic system, and I hope that future books delve more fully into the history and politics that have resulted in the rigid social structure at play in this book.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2023
Magic, fantasy and romance
This book continues the series with Charlie, a vessel (holder of magic), being rescued from his abusive master with help from the main characters of the first book in the series. Charlie is given to Earl Hathbury as he needs a mage to drain his build up of magic. I loved the interactions between the two of them. Charlie is timid after the abuse he's suffered. Lord Hathbury,Archie, is immediately smitten with Charlie bur understands he has to be cautious, gentle and protective of Charlie. There are many misunderstandings between them, but that doesn't stop feelings from developing. I enjoyed the fantasy aspect of the story and the growth of Charlie as he becomes more sure of himself. I would mention that there is a little bit of on page abuse at the end of the story and the threat of rape. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
This book continues the series with Charlie, a vessel (holder of magic), being rescued from his abusive master with help from the main characters of the first book in the series. Charlie is given to Earl Hathbury as he needs a mage to drain his build up of magic. I loved the interactions between the two of them. Charlie is timid after the abuse he's suffered. Lord Hathbury,Archie, is immediately smitten with Charlie bur understands he has to be cautious, gentle and protective of Charlie. There are many misunderstandings between them, but that doesn't stop feelings from developing. I enjoyed the fantasy aspect of the story and the growth of Charlie as he becomes more sure of himself. I would mention that there is a little bit of on page abuse at the end of the story and the threat of rape. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 4, 2022
Earl Hathbury’s Vessel by S. Rodman is set in an alternate contemporary Britain, including a mention of COVID, which most contemporary books still are not doing. In this alternative world magic is real and populated by a couple of types of magic users, mages and vessels. Vessels can’t use magic but only provide it to mages through some form of sex. While this is usually consensual, since the vessel must get rid of the magic, it is not always mutually fulfilling. The book comes with a CW that should be noted. Having read the first book in the series, I was familiar with many of the characters in this story. What really appealed to me was the emotional and intellectual growth Charlie, the vessel, underwent. His mage, Archie, also develops a lot and their joint exploration of a new way to interact is rewarding. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2023
4 stars
Poor Charlie! I so hoped he’d get a happy ending after the abuse he’d suffered. When Xander (D&M #1) rescued Charlie, he sent him to his friend Archie. Archie was such a sweetheart! I was so sad for Charlie and all his wrong assumptions about how to behave around the Duke (Archie) and thinking the worse of , well, everyone.
Their relationship was heartbreakingly sweet and rocky. Miscommunications and assumptions at every turn.
Poor Charlie! I so hoped he’d get a happy ending after the abuse he’d suffered. When Xander (D&M #1) rescued Charlie, he sent him to his friend Archie. Archie was such a sweetheart! I was so sad for Charlie and all his wrong assumptions about how to behave around the Duke (Archie) and thinking the worse of , well, everyone.
Their relationship was heartbreakingly sweet and rocky. Miscommunications and assumptions at every turn.
August 11, 2022
I’m enjoying this world the author created !! This book takes place very soon after book # 1 – so, I would recommend reading them in order as the characters do make a reappearance. Now, the MC’s here – total vanilla’s !! They are adorably clueless – very much a product of their “stations” and what is expected. Because of this, you end up with Jane Austen-ish miscommunications ….. with a slightly darker/TW twists. I loved it !! They’re both romantically awkward it’s just adorable. While there’s steamy action, I just loved the interaction between the characters and how they both learn there’s more to them than what’s expected ….. and with a very satisfying ending !! PS - I can’t wait for book # 3 !!!
November 17, 2022
Described as a modern PRN with Regency mores, this was a first visit to a new universe for me. The British nobility are all mages, unknown to most mere humans. But not all magics are equal. Some people are vessels, able to hold magic, but not use it. And they need to be drained periodically or they could explode from magic buildup. And only sex with a magic using mage can release their magic.
This leads to an unequal society, rampant with abuse.
Charlie, a vessel, escapes a cruel master who had control of him for four years. Archie, a milder, kinder master, wants to rescue Charlie. And give him a good life. But a lack of communication between the pair constantly sets them back.
The angst is high. The pair is sweet. Need more in this universe.
This leads to an unequal society, rampant with abuse.
Charlie, a vessel, escapes a cruel master who had control of him for four years. Archie, a milder, kinder master, wants to rescue Charlie. And give him a good life. But a lack of communication between the pair constantly sets them back.
The angst is high. The pair is sweet. Need more in this universe.
January 1, 2024
This was a story full of angst and heartbreak, in a very twisted world where there is a system of mages and their subservient "vessels" who act as a kind of magical battery that can only be drained through sex. The story feels very gothic, but also has modern elements, including a passing reference to COVID, so I had a little world building whip lash at times. Charlie is a heartbreaking character who was easy to cheer for. He has been abused for so long, he is just waiting for his new mage master to lash out. I loved the characters and the drama, but this story is not for the faint of heart. Highly recommend for readers who don't mind a little dubcon, and enjoy seeing someone recover and heal from a dark past.
July 24, 2024
A great continuation of the universe, with new characters introduced and plotlines that may carry across the series.
Charlie, oh Charlie. Poor baby. I felt so sad for him, with his situation, doubts, and struggles just to exist. There's a healthy dose of miscommunication (as I'm growing used to with this author), and here, it made sense, considering Charlie's nature.
Archie was such a simp. His emphasis on consent was necessary but also a source of frustration for everyone involved. There's angst between the two, as well as outside their relationship, but there's still so much hope.
The found family is growing, becoming more present and important. Eban is such an intriguing character, and I can't wait for his story.
Charlie, oh Charlie. Poor baby. I felt so sad for him, with his situation, doubts, and struggles just to exist. There's a healthy dose of miscommunication (as I'm growing used to with this author), and here, it made sense, considering Charlie's nature.
Archie was such a simp. His emphasis on consent was necessary but also a source of frustration for everyone involved. There's angst between the two, as well as outside their relationship, but there's still so much hope.
The found family is growing, becoming more present and important. Eban is such an intriguing character, and I can't wait for his story.
July 24, 2022
I JUST finished reading Earl Hathbury’s Vessel and ADORED it! What a creative clash of magic, lust, love, and current and historical feeling M/M romance.
This is my first book from author S. Rodman, and I was very happy having the chance to watch Charlie become so much more than he has been able to, under the care and compassion of Archie.
What makes me even happier is knowing this author has a backlog of work for me to now read. Including a character’s story we meet in this book. Plus, a new character from this story gets his own, next. So much exciting storytelling from this author!
February 11, 2023
The squick of this book just could not be overcome. Charlie is a 'vessel' in a magical world which means he can hold magic which is then siphoned off by a mage through sex. Ugh. He's currently the vessel of a cruel and abusive mage so he escapes and is taken in by Earl Hathbury. Hathbury is appalled by how Charlie was treated and tries to be very careful and caring going forward. Charlie was as close to a 'blushing virgin, heroine' as you could get. I did finish it but it was a close run thing with me. A good conversation between the main characters would have saved a lot of trouble with this story. In my opinion.
November 7, 2024
Cuando vi quién iba a ser el prota de este libro, dudé. Qué tonto fui...
Fue muy interesante ver el mundo de los vessels desde el punto de vista de Charlie 🥹🥺 lo cruel es el mundo con los vessels, cómo los rompen psicologicamente para que sean sumisos, complacientes y prácticamente una sombra para los magos (los cuales los ven solo como un objeto, una propiedad), les hacen creer que solo sirven para dar magia a los magos, pero sorpresa🥳😎 pueden hacer más.
Me encantó el interés amoroso, y todo el drama tonto que se armaba por la mala comunicación, o miedo de ambos a lastimar al otro.
Ya quiero leer el siguiente libro...🫶🏼
Fue muy interesante ver el mundo de los vessels desde el punto de vista de Charlie 🥹🥺 lo cruel es el mundo con los vessels, cómo los rompen psicologicamente para que sean sumisos, complacientes y prácticamente una sombra para los magos (los cuales los ven solo como un objeto, una propiedad), les hacen creer que solo sirven para dar magia a los magos, pero sorpresa🥳😎 pueden hacer más.
Me encantó el interés amoroso, y todo el drama tonto que se armaba por la mala comunicación, o miedo de ambos a lastimar al otro.
Ya quiero leer el siguiente libro...🫶🏼
October 13, 2025
Good times were had
I wasn’t as into this one as the first. I might’ve been in the wrong headspace coming directly from book 1, and had trouble being patient with Charlie’s perfectly reasonable frightened and timid demeanor after becoming accustomed to Fen’s more boisterous personality. That said, there was a plot point that felt rushed and unnecessary, but it was so rushed that it barely registered as a distraction, so I don’t fault it much.
These books have been so fun and easy to read. This series is very enjoyable. I loved Eban and am so excited for his story next. Onward!
I wasn’t as into this one as the first. I might’ve been in the wrong headspace coming directly from book 1, and had trouble being patient with Charlie’s perfectly reasonable frightened and timid demeanor after becoming accustomed to Fen’s more boisterous personality. That said, there was a plot point that felt rushed and unnecessary, but it was so rushed that it barely registered as a distraction, so I don’t fault it much.
These books have been so fun and easy to read. This series is very enjoyable. I loved Eban and am so excited for his story next. Onward!
September 9, 2022
It was nice to see Charlie get a break finally. There are parts of the plot that I wish had been better developed--the people after the portal, for example. Compared to the first book, this one was definitely more focused on the relationship between Charlie and Archie rather than an external plot. The trauma Charlie experienced made reading parts of this story difficult and I wish the two MCs could have just talked to each other rather than being obtuse and stubborn, but I get why that choice was made. Curious to see what's in store for the next book.
March 6, 2023
Poor Charlie
He is so used to being used and abused that he doesn’t really know what to do with kindness. This world is a fascinating one, even if dark and in need of some reform. The way people turn a blind eye to the suffering of vessels all because of the way they were born is pretty heinous. But Charlie and Archie manage to find some happiness, even if they do need to work on their communication skills. It really is a good book and I would love to see what happens to Eban.
He is so used to being used and abused that he doesn’t really know what to do with kindness. This world is a fascinating one, even if dark and in need of some reform. The way people turn a blind eye to the suffering of vessels all because of the way they were born is pretty heinous. But Charlie and Archie manage to find some happiness, even if they do need to work on their communication skills. It really is a good book and I would love to see what happens to Eban.
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