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The Old Bridge Inn #1
Beck and Call
A standalone M/M historical romance
By returning to England, Edwin Harrow hoped to escape the treacherous lover and false accusations he left behind on the Continent. But when his secrets leave him open to blackmail, the worst thing he can do is fall in love with his blackmailer's brother, kind and gravely charming fellow servant William Bell.
After five lonely years as valet to a reclusive country squire, William is fascinated by prickly, standoffish Edwin. He suspects he wants more than Edwin is ready to give, but he cannot resist trying to break through that defensive shell.
And William has secrets of his own, namely his involvement in one of the literary societies recently driven underground by the political climate. When Edwin's messy past catches up with them, will it spell disaster for them both?
By returning to England, Edwin Harrow hoped to escape the treacherous lover and false accusations he left behind on the Continent. But when his secrets leave him open to blackmail, the worst thing he can do is fall in love with his blackmailer's brother, kind and gravely charming fellow servant William Bell.
After five lonely years as valet to a reclusive country squire, William is fascinated by prickly, standoffish Edwin. He suspects he wants more than Edwin is ready to give, but he cannot resist trying to break through that defensive shell.
And William has secrets of his own, namely his involvement in one of the literary societies recently driven underground by the political climate. When Edwin's messy past catches up with them, will it spell disaster for them both?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2022
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April 20, 2023Romance between two valets in the 1790s, with full awareness of the demands on their time, the arbitrariness of masters, the precarious situation of people living without any sort of social safety net, for whom poverty and desperation are only a misstep away. Plus external threats: William is tangentially involved in unlawful gatherings of the political kind, and Edwin is being blackmailed for other unlawfulness.
It makes for quite a stressful read at points. Luckily William is a lovely, sunny character, dedicated to those he loves and open hearted; Edwin is more ground down by the stresses he lives under. Their romance is sweet rather than hot, with Edwin constantly pulling away. The resolution works very nicely on its own terms, but I did wish Edwin had involved William more in his troubles: as it is the romance plot and Edwin's problems are parallel rather than interwoven, which makes William feel not quite central to the book.
However, the romance we have is lovely and the historical setting nicely drawn, and when do you ever get two valets? (Or even two servants other than Listen to the Moon?)
It makes for quite a stressful read at points. Luckily William is a lovely, sunny character, dedicated to those he loves and open hearted; Edwin is more ground down by the stresses he lives under. Their romance is sweet rather than hot, with Edwin constantly pulling away. The resolution works very nicely on its own terms, but I did wish Edwin had involved William more in his troubles: as it is the romance plot and Edwin's problems are parallel rather than interwoven, which makes William feel not quite central to the book.
However, the romance we have is lovely and the historical setting nicely drawn, and when do you ever get two valets? (Or even two servants other than Listen to the Moon?)
May 27, 2022
3.5 stars. A historical romance with neither of the MCs being members of the upper class; this is only the second book of this type I’ve read and I demand more of it. There’s some great class commentary throughout this, which makes up for a romance that doesn’t always seem that passionate. Still sweet though, and always good to see good characters get their happy ending.
January 9, 2024
What a disappointment! If this was supposed to be historical gay fiction, it would have been incredible. The depiction of the historical time period was very well done and the MCs both had interesting backstories and character arcs throughout the story. Unfortunately, they spent very little time together, they had no chemistry and it felt like they were fuck buddies rather than long term romantic partners. Since this was marketed as a historical romance instead of historical fiction, it was a big letdown.
The historical details were my favorite part. The author did a fantastic job immersing me in the time period by adding in constant references to tiny details that brought the scene and time period to life, in a way that I haven't seen done before. For example - describing what William sees through a window when he looks outside, how William rests his feet on a sack of potatoes when he's riding in a farmer's cart, how he's constantly walking past other members of the household staff (boot boys, housemaids) and how those staff members are carrying things that illustrate their duties. My favorite example of this was when William mentions that the sheets of paper he uses to write letters to his sister come from scrap paper that his employer's land agent regularly tosses out. Paper was a luxury during this time period and people who weren't upper or working class would have struggled to regularly access paper. So William salvages the crumpled up scrap paper that has lists of items and other notes on it and he'll use every available bit of space on it to write his letter, which includes changing the angle of the paper (this was called 'crossing a letter') so he can utilize empty lines left between previously written ones. I haven't come across a historical romance that went into such detail, specifically regarding the lives of people in service so I loved all of that.
I also liked that the author had the MCs come from different backgrounds with different backstories, despite both of them holding the same job (they're valets) and they've spent the vast majority of their lives in service (both started as boot boys, one at age 6 and the other at age 11 and they worked their way up through the household staff hierarchy). But these differences led to my main issue with the romance because both MCs came into the story with tons of issues and they spent the first 80% of the book dealing with those issues on their own instead of together.
William has multiple siblings, including a sister who is widowed and has her own children, and a younger brother who also works as a valet. Their parents passed away long ago and there are many young siblings/nieces/nephews who William is financially responsible for. He spends most of the book exchanging letters with his sister, discussing the welfare of the younger children (ex. deciding whether to keep paying for the oldest of the young boys to continue his education or allow him to enter service as a stable boy). William also has his hands full with his younger brother's antics. Until the 80% mark, William doesn't know that Cyril is blackmailing Edwin but he knows there's bad blood between the two so he's constantly trying to figure out why Cyril doesn't like his new lover. Lastly, the summary mentions William's seditious/political activities being important, but they really aren't. The guy used to attend radical political meetings but once they were banned, he's been too scared to get involved in any of that. He unintentionally gets caught up in a mission to deliver collected funds to families of men who had been arrested but that goes off without a hitch and then William washes his hands of the whole thing. There's also an ongoing plot thread of William not being happy in service and wanting to do something else but not knowing what other career path to choose.
Edwin spends the book dealing with Cyril blackmailing him and the unwanted attention from an ex-lover. . The ex-lover suddenly shows up and wants to reunite so poor Edwin has his hands full dealing with these two difficult situations.
The problem is that both MCs spend almost the entire book dealing with these situations on their own. They never discuss them together and the only time they come together is to have sex. There is a nice scene where Edwin thinks William's career issues may be solved if he gets hired by a more social lord (William's current employer is basically a recluse) but William's valet skills aren't good enough for that so Edwin teaches William how to properly tie various cravat knots that are currently in fashion. I loved that whole thing and I wanted to see this explored a lot more, but it wasn't what the author chose to focus on. Because they don't talk about their various issues with each other, they end up solving most of their problems on their own. Things do collide at 80% and . But then they separate and continue solving things on their own. They only get back together at 98% with Edwin . This was very disappointing because William didn't play a role in Edwin's character arc throughout the entire story and Edwin's involvement in William's issues was also minimal.
The other problem was that the smut scenes were either FTB or very, very vague. In fact, the scenes get less descriptive and more vague as the story progresses, which I found strange. Normally I don't care if a book has FTB smut scenes but the MCs didn't have any chemistry and they spent so little time together that I needed to get a better sense of their connection in order to believe in them as a couple so the FTB/vague smut scenes didn't help. Due to the author's strange decision to have the MCs spend so little time together and to have most of their together time consist of sex meant their relationship felt like a fuck buddies arrangement rather than a long term romantic relationship.
Overall, I'm pretty disappointed with this one. The author's depiction of the time period was done extremely well but I felt the author was more focused on writing historical gay fiction rather than historical gay romance. I never got the sense that the MCs had a deep connection or any desire to be a couple, which is a shame.
The historical details were my favorite part. The author did a fantastic job immersing me in the time period by adding in constant references to tiny details that brought the scene and time period to life, in a way that I haven't seen done before. For example - describing what William sees through a window when he looks outside, how William rests his feet on a sack of potatoes when he's riding in a farmer's cart, how he's constantly walking past other members of the household staff (boot boys, housemaids) and how those staff members are carrying things that illustrate their duties. My favorite example of this was when William mentions that the sheets of paper he uses to write letters to his sister come from scrap paper that his employer's land agent regularly tosses out. Paper was a luxury during this time period and people who weren't upper or working class would have struggled to regularly access paper. So William salvages the crumpled up scrap paper that has lists of items and other notes on it and he'll use every available bit of space on it to write his letter, which includes changing the angle of the paper (this was called 'crossing a letter') so he can utilize empty lines left between previously written ones. I haven't come across a historical romance that went into such detail, specifically regarding the lives of people in service so I loved all of that.
I also liked that the author had the MCs come from different backgrounds with different backstories, despite both of them holding the same job (they're valets) and they've spent the vast majority of their lives in service (both started as boot boys, one at age 6 and the other at age 11 and they worked their way up through the household staff hierarchy). But these differences led to my main issue with the romance because both MCs came into the story with tons of issues and they spent the first 80% of the book dealing with those issues on their own instead of together.
William has multiple siblings, including a sister who is widowed and has her own children, and a younger brother who also works as a valet. Their parents passed away long ago and there are many young siblings/nieces/nephews who William is financially responsible for. He spends most of the book exchanging letters with his sister, discussing the welfare of the younger children (ex. deciding whether to keep paying for the oldest of the young boys to continue his education or allow him to enter service as a stable boy). William also has his hands full with his younger brother's antics. Until the 80% mark, William doesn't know that Cyril is blackmailing Edwin but he knows there's bad blood between the two so he's constantly trying to figure out why Cyril doesn't like his new lover. Lastly, the summary mentions William's seditious/political activities being important, but they really aren't. The guy used to attend radical political meetings but once they were banned, he's been too scared to get involved in any of that. He unintentionally gets caught up in a mission to deliver collected funds to families of men who had been arrested but that goes off without a hitch and then William washes his hands of the whole thing. There's also an ongoing plot thread of William not being happy in service and wanting to do something else but not knowing what other career path to choose.
Edwin spends the book dealing with Cyril blackmailing him and the unwanted attention from an ex-lover. . The ex-lover suddenly shows up and wants to reunite so poor Edwin has his hands full dealing with these two difficult situations.
The problem is that both MCs spend almost the entire book dealing with these situations on their own. They never discuss them together and the only time they come together is to have sex. There is a nice scene where Edwin thinks William's career issues may be solved if he gets hired by a more social lord (William's current employer is basically a recluse) but William's valet skills aren't good enough for that so Edwin teaches William how to properly tie various cravat knots that are currently in fashion. I loved that whole thing and I wanted to see this explored a lot more, but it wasn't what the author chose to focus on. Because they don't talk about their various issues with each other, they end up solving most of their problems on their own. Things do collide at 80% and . But then they separate and continue solving things on their own. They only get back together at 98% with Edwin . This was very disappointing because William didn't play a role in Edwin's character arc throughout the entire story and Edwin's involvement in William's issues was also minimal.
The other problem was that the smut scenes were either FTB or very, very vague. In fact, the scenes get less descriptive and more vague as the story progresses, which I found strange. Normally I don't care if a book has FTB smut scenes but the MCs didn't have any chemistry and they spent so little time together that I needed to get a better sense of their connection in order to believe in them as a couple so the FTB/vague smut scenes didn't help. Due to the author's strange decision to have the MCs spend so little time together and to have most of their together time consist of sex meant their relationship felt like a fuck buddies arrangement rather than a long term romantic relationship.
Overall, I'm pretty disappointed with this one. The author's depiction of the time period was done extremely well but I felt the author was more focused on writing historical gay fiction rather than historical gay romance. I never got the sense that the MCs had a deep connection or any desire to be a couple, which is a shame.
April 17, 2025
It took me a long time to read this one, but I’d like to think it’s because I was savoring it. For once it’s a regency romance where the servants get to fall in love, with all the complications of juggling work and the occasional blackmailer. Really enjoyed it!
October 29, 2023
3.5 rounded up
Historical MM romance set in England in the late 1700s between two valets. I enjoyed reading a romance between two men in the servant class--unusual in my experience--and I thought the writing was great. The romance felt quite subdued, which wasn't helped by the fact that all the smut is fade-to-black/off-screen, which I found disappointing. I didn't totally feel as strong a connection between them as I'd have wanted, but I still found it enjoyable. I did wish they'd both been a bit more direct/communicative about the external issues they were facing, Edwin in particular, given the impact it could (and did) have on one another given their connection, but even that I found understandable. Solid read on the whole, and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author (though I'm going to hope things get a bit steamier in other novels...)
Historical MM romance set in England in the late 1700s between two valets. I enjoyed reading a romance between two men in the servant class--unusual in my experience--and I thought the writing was great. The romance felt quite subdued, which wasn't helped by the fact that all the smut is fade-to-black/off-screen, which I found disappointing. I didn't totally feel as strong a connection between them as I'd have wanted, but I still found it enjoyable. I did wish they'd both been a bit more direct/communicative about the external issues they were facing, Edwin in particular, given the impact it could (and did) have on one another given their connection, but even that I found understandable. Solid read on the whole, and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author (though I'm going to hope things get a bit steamier in other novels...)
November 24, 2024
In a fit of chaos, I read this series back to front, starting with the third book and only arriving at the first via the second. And this is a series where you can legitimately do that, since there is only the barest overlap of characters between the three. Instead, all of them are held together by an association with the Penny Reading Society at the Old Bridge Inn, a library and learning club for the working people of Southwark. That association is less front and centre here than in the later books. William Bell, one of the MCs, is a member and has an interest in printing and science, but the action of the plot takes place elsewhere.
As well as an avid reader (insofar as he is able, given limited access to print), William is the valet of a hypochondriac northern gentleman. It’s in this guise that he meets Edwin Harrow, valet to the Viscount Leighland, and the two bond over the love of a good novel. However, as an attraction develops - and they begin the difficult dance of figuring out each other’s interest - secrets from Edwin’s past are closing in around him. Naturally taciturn and self-reliant, can he trust William’s open heart?
Although the historical politics weren’t as developed as the later stories, I found the romance in this one deeply satisfying. I’m a sucker for a closed-off distrustful MC being cracked open by a kind, gentle lover. And Annick Trent’s deliberate slow-burn style suits that narrative perfectly. I also admire the way they write their characters into a rounded world, showing both William and Edwin’s multiple bonds with others - friends, family, colleagues and employers - while never losing sight of the tension between the central pair.
I’m sad I only have one novelette left to discover in this series - although Trent has a contemporary mm trilogy that intrigues me - but I think there are more coming soon, thank goodness. My mental health needs them.
As well as an avid reader (insofar as he is able, given limited access to print), William is the valet of a hypochondriac northern gentleman. It’s in this guise that he meets Edwin Harrow, valet to the Viscount Leighland, and the two bond over the love of a good novel. However, as an attraction develops - and they begin the difficult dance of figuring out each other’s interest - secrets from Edwin’s past are closing in around him. Naturally taciturn and self-reliant, can he trust William’s open heart?
Although the historical politics weren’t as developed as the later stories, I found the romance in this one deeply satisfying. I’m a sucker for a closed-off distrustful MC being cracked open by a kind, gentle lover. And Annick Trent’s deliberate slow-burn style suits that narrative perfectly. I also admire the way they write their characters into a rounded world, showing both William and Edwin’s multiple bonds with others - friends, family, colleagues and employers - while never losing sight of the tension between the central pair.
I’m sad I only have one novelette left to discover in this series - although Trent has a contemporary mm trilogy that intrigues me - but I think there are more coming soon, thank goodness. My mental health needs them.
January 5, 2024
A lovely period M-M romance with two delightful MCs, a few equally lovely secondaries and of course a baddie or two to stir up the pot. This provided several diverting hours of pleasant reading; now to see what else this author has written.
December 27, 2024
I quite liked book 3 in this series -- no need to read in order, they are only loosely connected -- other than the fact that it was, like, full of science? And I? Am not full of science? Don't get me wrong, I'm not anti-science. Science is great! I love benefiting from science! Science done by others! (I believe they're called "scientists," but don't quote me on this.) I just don't want science in my romance! Sweaty flashbacks to high school chemistry is not in any way relaxing!
I am happy to report that this book did not have science. It had reading! I love reading!
Like its companion book, this was very fine-grained, day-in-the-life stuff, where the lives in question belong to two valets. Like its companion book, it was also a combo of, on the one hand, quite slooooooow, detail-oriented pacing and, on the other, a heaping helping of malevolence, cover-ups, and assholes, oh my! It makes for a funny reading experience, because it's kind of edging towards boring, but also low-key stressful? A high-low angst read? It mostly worked, due especially to lovely, trusting William. I mean, the no-science helped. Who doesn't love MCs whose main forms of relaxation are reading and woefully lacking communication with their beloved? Being known like a motherforker over here, y'all.
I am happy to report that this book did not have science. It had reading! I love reading!
Like its companion book, this was very fine-grained, day-in-the-life stuff, where the lives in question belong to two valets. Like its companion book, it was also a combo of, on the one hand, quite slooooooow, detail-oriented pacing and, on the other, a heaping helping of malevolence, cover-ups, and assholes, oh my! It makes for a funny reading experience, because it's kind of edging towards boring, but also low-key stressful? A high-low angst read? It mostly worked, due especially to lovely, trusting William. I mean, the no-science helped. Who doesn't love MCs whose main forms of relaxation are reading and woefully lacking communication with their beloved? Being known like a motherforker over here, y'all.
July 11, 2022
Excellent period feel; low passion romance. I think this is the first time I’ve read an historical romance between two servants, which obviously added complications to pursuing a relationship. All the more so because they’re in different households. It seemed like a very realistic portrait of the life of valets, but that meant the relationship was pretty subdued. Who has the time? (There’s also a lot of other stuff going on.)
So this didn’t come across as an all-consuming love as is often the case in romance, but more a slow-growing affection and trust that’s as much about companionship as carnal desire. Which I mostly dug. Going a little heavier on declaring their feelings wouldn’t have gone amiss though. Will try this author again.
So this didn’t come across as an all-consuming love as is often the case in romance, but more a slow-growing affection and trust that’s as much about companionship as carnal desire. Which I mostly dug. Going a little heavier on declaring their feelings wouldn’t have gone amiss though. Will try this author again.
December 31, 2024
This was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve, and Edwin felt a sudden impulse to tell him to stop. To warn him that it was dangerous to live like that.
petition for more historical romance authors to write books about the middle class / working class. i think the only reason this one isn't a fuller four stars is because poor Edwin is stressed the hell out for a majority of the book. i wanted a few more moments of Edwin and William simply enjoying each others company, stress-free!
May 19, 2021
Fall in love with main characters' Edwin and William.
Making a necessary change in his life, Edwin returns to England in hopes of escaping a past he'd much rather forget. Unfortunately, not even another country, can help him escape the possibilities of blackmail. Then he meets a man that captures more than his eye.
Dare he risk it all?
William Bell is a servant, and a bit of a recluse. the type of position he holds can have that affect. Not until he meets Edwin, does his life become a little more interesting. Captivated by this prickly man, he sets his sights on bringing down his walls.
Adding to an already tricky life, Edwin is being blackmailed by none other than William's brother.
Both Williams and Edwin, have secrets. The kind that can place unknown obstacles before them.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Making a necessary change in his life, Edwin returns to England in hopes of escaping a past he'd much rather forget. Unfortunately, not even another country, can help him escape the possibilities of blackmail. Then he meets a man that captures more than his eye.
Dare he risk it all?
William Bell is a servant, and a bit of a recluse. the type of position he holds can have that affect. Not until he meets Edwin, does his life become a little more interesting. Captivated by this prickly man, he sets his sights on bringing down his walls.
Adding to an already tricky life, Edwin is being blackmailed by none other than William's brother.
Both Williams and Edwin, have secrets. The kind that can place unknown obstacles before them.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
January 23, 2024
I enjoyed this very much. I do so enjoy series like this which have a shared bunch of characters and we see a teeny bit of them in linked books.
I enjoy the depiction of servants' lives in these books, and those of the other working class people.
I enjoy the depiction of servants' lives in these books, and those of the other working class people.
January 3, 2022
3.5 stars
It was really refreshing to read a historical romance that isn't focused on the perspective of the upper classes. Instead this book is centered around two valets, which brings very different perspectives, issues and conflicts to the romance. It was heavy on the historical details and thorough in showing the life of the valets, and I appreciated seeing the connection and discussions between the servants and the insight into the reality and difficulties of their positions.
There was a lot going on in this book outside of the romance – in fact the romance itself was a bit too slow and underexpressed for my personal preference, with other plot issues taking precedence. The romance was of course central to the story, but Edward spent most of the book very closed off and distrustful, which was understandable due to the plot but made the romance somewhat difficult. At the same time this created a lot of good, angsty moments, and I particularly liked the interplay between the more vulnerably open William and the somewhat standoffish Edward as they tried to navigate their undefined relationship.
It was really refreshing to read a historical romance that isn't focused on the perspective of the upper classes. Instead this book is centered around two valets, which brings very different perspectives, issues and conflicts to the romance. It was heavy on the historical details and thorough in showing the life of the valets, and I appreciated seeing the connection and discussions between the servants and the insight into the reality and difficulties of their positions.
There was a lot going on in this book outside of the romance – in fact the romance itself was a bit too slow and underexpressed for my personal preference, with other plot issues taking precedence. The romance was of course central to the story, but Edward spent most of the book very closed off and distrustful, which was understandable due to the plot but made the romance somewhat difficult. At the same time this created a lot of good, angsty moments, and I particularly liked the interplay between the more vulnerably open William and the somewhat standoffish Edward as they tried to navigate their undefined relationship.
May 12, 2023
A lovely, sweet romance between two valets in the 1790s.
Well, I say sweet.... this adjective is more about the way in which the characters interact with each other than the story itself. The story is actually quite tense at moments: there is the always precarious situation in which people such as Edwin and William are, absolutely dependent on their masters. Then, of course, there is the matter of Edwin's blackmailer and the fact that William is somehow mixed with unlawful political gatherings.
But I really enjoyed it, it has a wonderfully detailed setting, the characters are interesting and the resolution very satisfying. Therefore, I'm about to read the second book in this series... lesbians, this time :P
Well, I say sweet.... this adjective is more about the way in which the characters interact with each other than the story itself. The story is actually quite tense at moments: there is the always precarious situation in which people such as Edwin and William are, absolutely dependent on their masters. Then, of course, there is the matter of Edwin's blackmailer and the fact that William is somehow mixed with unlawful political gatherings.
But I really enjoyed it, it has a wonderfully detailed setting, the characters are interesting and the resolution very satisfying. Therefore, I'm about to read the second book in this series... lesbians, this time :P
January 5, 2024
3.5 stars. Started this book and almost DNF'd during the first 50 pages or so. Very English with valets, footmen, servants, maids, cooks, etc. running around performing all kinds of chores for English gentlemen. The very rich certainly didn't have to lift a finger.
It took awhile but an M/M romance finally started and the book took a turn to an interesting, solid story about rich vs. poor and everything in between. I would definitely recommend it and hopefully others will find the first part better than I did.
It took awhile but an M/M romance finally started and the book took a turn to an interesting, solid story about rich vs. poor and everything in between. I would definitely recommend it and hopefully others will find the first part better than I did.
August 1, 2024
A nice, cute, wholesome romance
May 21, 2023
Truly enjoyed the historic background in this book, which felt more realistic than many. The details of servants’ lives and reading clubs for working people were interesting. Also, it includes several woman side characters who are also working for a living and just as self possessed and intelligent as the men around them.
The very ending felt a little rushed, but otherwise no complaints.
The very ending felt a little rushed, but otherwise no complaints.
December 23, 2021
A well thought out historical romance. Refreshingly, it isn't about the aristocracy, it's set in the world of those in service. I would say that the emphasis is more on the historic and less on the romance, although love is definitely in the air for Edwin and William. It's quite a serious story, with some angst and betrayal. I felt for Edwin and what he went through, and admired William for always trying to look after his family, and his willingness to always be himself without compromise.The romance is a slow one, but satisfying none the less. The ending wasn't really a HEA for the two men, but was probably all that could be expected due to their circumstances. Pretty well written, if a little slow in parts. Three and a half stars.
July 28, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a great read. It is set in early nineteenth century England and concerns two protagonists in service. The period feel is excellent being set somewhere near the middle of the industrial revolution, probably during the Napoleonic wars as there are lots of naval references. William Bell and Edwin Harrow work for two different households and meet while staying at another house while their masters do what wealthy aristos and their followers do on these occasions. William is a friendly intelligent man who likes to read. His present situation is in Lancashire and his employer Paxton is bit of a stick in the mud with little ambition to mix with others in his class unless it involves one of his projects. William has been stuck in the North for the last five years with little company and a library of old books as his master is not into fashion or literature.
Edwin on the other hand is somewhat taciturn but when he meets William his hard shell he has built around himself starts to crack. We follow them as they come into contact more than they thought possible and their attachment grows. They both have secrets to hide. William’s secret relates to a short imprisonment from being in a literary society and Edwin’s relates to his being in a relationship with an upper class scoundrel. I realised both of these secrets were going to have an impact on the two of them at some stage. That aside we get to share in a beautiful developing friendship that might just mean more for the both of them.
There was a minor hiccough for me when at one point a character rides a horse from Dorset to Gosport in Hampshire. From what I know about horses and distances, a journey of about thirty odd miles (the shortest there is from the edge of Dorset to Gosport) would take at least one day with rest stops on the way so there is no way the rider could be back early next day as he wanted seeming as it was already nightfall.
If you like period romances this is for you and if you don’t well give it a go if you are into MM romance. Me? I just like a good read and this is one.
This is a great read. It is set in early nineteenth century England and concerns two protagonists in service. The period feel is excellent being set somewhere near the middle of the industrial revolution, probably during the Napoleonic wars as there are lots of naval references. William Bell and Edwin Harrow work for two different households and meet while staying at another house while their masters do what wealthy aristos and their followers do on these occasions. William is a friendly intelligent man who likes to read. His present situation is in Lancashire and his employer Paxton is bit of a stick in the mud with little ambition to mix with others in his class unless it involves one of his projects. William has been stuck in the North for the last five years with little company and a library of old books as his master is not into fashion or literature.
Edwin on the other hand is somewhat taciturn but when he meets William his hard shell he has built around himself starts to crack. We follow them as they come into contact more than they thought possible and their attachment grows. They both have secrets to hide. William’s secret relates to a short imprisonment from being in a literary society and Edwin’s relates to his being in a relationship with an upper class scoundrel. I realised both of these secrets were going to have an impact on the two of them at some stage. That aside we get to share in a beautiful developing friendship that might just mean more for the both of them.
There was a minor hiccough for me when at one point a character rides a horse from Dorset to Gosport in Hampshire. From what I know about horses and distances, a journey of about thirty odd miles (the shortest there is from the edge of Dorset to Gosport) would take at least one day with rest stops on the way so there is no way the rider could be back early next day as he wanted seeming as it was already nightfall.
If you like period romances this is for you and if you don’t well give it a go if you are into MM romance. Me? I just like a good read and this is one.
December 28, 2021
A tender love story set in the late 18th Century, Beck and Call tells the meandering tale of William and Edwin, two valets who conduct a passionate love affair in snatched snips and pockets of time. Ever at the ready for their employers, the two men meet at a house party - just as Edwin is planting William's brother, Cyril, a facer. Despite this unfortunate beginning, their attraction grows and the two men plan to meet again in London. They do, and begin seeing each other in earnest. Both harbor deep secrets that could lead to imprisonment, in addition to the (then) crime of being a homosexual male.
We follow the two from house parties to pubs to small, windowless rooms where they can give life to their love for one another, without ever saying the words. When a truly nasty specimen from Edwin's past reappears and destroys their happiness, the two men face hard choices and heartbreak. William is forced to take a look at what he wants most in life, and how to balance that against caring for his family members. Edwin finds the courage to confess, and determines that love, however secret, is always worth the risk.
Annick Trent provides interesting insight into some of the prevailing social issues of the day, including fears among the upper classes that educating the poor would lead to unrest and even French-style Revlolution, the criminalization of literacy among the working classes, and the constant state of fear and anxiety homosexual men operated in. I will definitely do a bit of research into the topics presented!
We're treated to some wonderful scenes and side characters - a secret literary society meeting for working men and women, the practicality of William and Cyril's down-to-earth sister, and a hilarious description of Mr Paxton, William's employer, partaking in cold baths a la the Wim Hof method.
The romance is a slow build and smoldering burn, with sensual but non-explicit lovemaking. This is an *incredibly* romantic tale, made all the sweeter for the still-unusual focus on the lives of two working men! I truly enjoyed the perspective of servants and their true opinions of their employers, be it the fair-minded Viscount Leighland or the hypochondriac Paxton.
I highly recommend this book! There's a believable, satisfying ending - we may not know what the world holds for these two men, but I do know that their fierce love and devotion will enable them to weather any storm.
5* ! I look forward to reading more historical novels from this author.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for the advance e-copy of this lovely book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We follow the two from house parties to pubs to small, windowless rooms where they can give life to their love for one another, without ever saying the words. When a truly nasty specimen from Edwin's past reappears and destroys their happiness, the two men face hard choices and heartbreak. William is forced to take a look at what he wants most in life, and how to balance that against caring for his family members. Edwin finds the courage to confess, and determines that love, however secret, is always worth the risk.
Annick Trent provides interesting insight into some of the prevailing social issues of the day, including fears among the upper classes that educating the poor would lead to unrest and even French-style Revlolution, the criminalization of literacy among the working classes, and the constant state of fear and anxiety homosexual men operated in. I will definitely do a bit of research into the topics presented!
We're treated to some wonderful scenes and side characters - a secret literary society meeting for working men and women, the practicality of William and Cyril's down-to-earth sister, and a hilarious description of Mr Paxton, William's employer, partaking in cold baths a la the Wim Hof method.
The romance is a slow build and smoldering burn, with sensual but non-explicit lovemaking. This is an *incredibly* romantic tale, made all the sweeter for the still-unusual focus on the lives of two working men! I truly enjoyed the perspective of servants and their true opinions of their employers, be it the fair-minded Viscount Leighland or the hypochondriac Paxton.
I highly recommend this book! There's a believable, satisfying ending - we may not know what the world holds for these two men, but I do know that their fierce love and devotion will enable them to weather any storm.
5* ! I look forward to reading more historical novels from this author.
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for the advance e-copy of this lovely book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2023
While I have to praise the author for making a non-conventional MM Historical Romance (between valets), I wouldn't even call this a romance per se. It was like Edwin and William had more of a love affair... maybe the beginning of a love story but it was very lacking, particularly because they barely get to know each other. It is more of a lovers-to-friends sort of beginning, but the awkward lover type that seem they both are walking on thin ice, specially William, since Edwin is grumpier and doesn't want to confide in William at all.
There are more problems than the development of a romance: William in the middle of a political issue + having to provide for his widowed sister, with 3 little children of her own + other smaller siblings. Then Georgie + the new baby... exhausting thinking of all the little children in a very poor family :S
And of course Edwin, dealing with a blackmail + his past + his crazy ex-lover. And him not relying on anyone and being quite rude whenever William tried to talk to him. And being valets was taking all of their times, so they barely had time for each other. I understand why most romance books have to be between lazy, rich people, with more freedom :S
So yeah, not the pillars for a nice romance, at last for me.
There are more problems than the development of a romance: William in the middle of a political issue + having to provide for his widowed sister, with 3 little children of her own + other smaller siblings. Then Georgie + the new baby... exhausting thinking of all the little children in a very poor family :S
And of course Edwin, dealing with a blackmail + his past + his crazy ex-lover. And him not relying on anyone and being quite rude whenever William tried to talk to him. And being valets was taking all of their times, so they barely had time for each other. I understand why most romance books have to be between lazy, rich people, with more freedom :S
So yeah, not the pillars for a nice romance, at last for me.
July 21, 2021
REVIEW ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Beck and Call by Annick Trent is a historical m/m romance centered around the serving class of Victorian England. Attempting to flee his past, Edwin Harrow returns to England only to find himself at the mercy of a blackmailer, and to make things worse he thinks he is falling in love with his blackmailer’s brother William. William is intrigued by the distant Edwin but is determined to break through his shell. William, too, has secrets of his own. Will the passion born of their clandestine meetings flourish or will their secrets destroy them both?⠀
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This is a slow burn romance, a little too slow at times. It is heavy on the historical and lighter on the romance. The sexual scenes were written with careful discretion but could have been more passionate while still not being graphic. The characters are well developed, and the honorable and sympathetic lovers along with the vicious villains are more than enough to carry the reader through the less lively chapters. It is refreshing to see a historical romance about the common class rather than the frequently featured upper class. All in all, an enjoyable read. ⠀
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This is a slow burn romance, a little too slow at times. It is heavy on the historical and lighter on the romance. The sexual scenes were written with careful discretion but could have been more passionate while still not being graphic. The characters are well developed, and the honorable and sympathetic lovers along with the vicious villains are more than enough to carry the reader through the less lively chapters. It is refreshing to see a historical romance about the common class rather than the frequently featured upper class. All in all, an enjoyable read. ⠀
December 18, 2021
My main issue with this book is that the plot focuses too much on what's going on around these characters instead of actually developing their relationship. I understand that they first come together as a means to an end, as would have been common in an era when "buggery" was a serious crime, but they basically fall in love dick first and it doesn't make sense the lengths they go to to be together when there isn't much else there. Pages of William trying to figure out how to transport money or picking out a coat for his employer, or Edwin dealing with William's brother and also doing service things for his employer... it just got a bit boring. I know what a valet does, that's not what I'm here for. If you really enjoy that ins and outs of daily life and a really slow burn romance, you'll be less disappointed, but I just found it a bit to much.
March 27, 2024
A sweet love story between 2 lonely MCs. Edwin, always a bit reticent, was betrayed by a previous lover and has since kept his emotions and heart tightly under wraps. Connecting to few, friendly with few, not willing to confide his troubles or his past - he's not exactly lonely but certainly alone. Yet he want to give his heart to valet William Bell.
Bell has luckily risen to the post of valet for a hypochondriac country gentleman who rarely leaves his estate. While he has an open and friendly personality, he rarely gets to use it, trapped with his 'master' Yet, on his very first meeting with Edwin he is mesmerized and willing to open his feelings.
I didn't feel I really got to know both MCs as well as I did in The Oak and Ash, but their final resolution is so sweet!
KJ Charles has an excellent review
Bell has luckily risen to the post of valet for a hypochondriac country gentleman who rarely leaves his estate. While he has an open and friendly personality, he rarely gets to use it, trapped with his 'master' Yet, on his very first meeting with Edwin he is mesmerized and willing to open his feelings.
I didn't feel I really got to know both MCs as well as I did in The Oak and Ash, but their final resolution is so sweet!
KJ Charles has an excellent review
March 2, 2024
4.5*
A relationship between valets from different backgrounds, with different obligations and issues, all of which weigh heavily on the two men, much more so than might burden a gentleman with the same desires and interests. William is especially likable, and Edwin’s reticence is entirely understandable. The historical and occupational detail was of interest.
This is the first I’ve read by this author and I anticipate seeking out additional titles.
A relationship between valets from different backgrounds, with different obligations and issues, all of which weigh heavily on the two men, much more so than might burden a gentleman with the same desires and interests. William is especially likable, and Edwin’s reticence is entirely understandable. The historical and occupational detail was of interest.
This is the first I’ve read by this author and I anticipate seeking out additional titles.
December 29, 2023
Immersive dive into love and life in 1790s Britain in the less privileged class with a sweet and slow-burning romance. I really enjoyed the book and didn’t want to put it down. It makes me think about life then and life today and shows the dynamics of family and friend relationships as well as patronage. Really nicely done. This was my first read by this author but I’ll be looking for more.
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October 10, 2023A servant POV romance. Two valets fall in love. I appreciated this change in perspective and the touch of political history (not as much as
July 13, 2023
This book is so soft and precious and tender.
I’d like to be more like William Bell. I think we should all strive to be as gentle and kind and compassionate as William Bell. My icon.
You rarely get to read historical fiction from the perspectives of members of the servant class, especially one where both love interests are servants. Though it was hard to read sometimes, I really appreciate the way this book depicts the reality of a life of servitude and how one’s entire livelihood is beholden to those with so much more power, influence, and resources (capital) than you. The power dynamics were particularly interesting and somewhat novel to me in this capacity– really apparent with Felix, who, by the way, is one of the more terrifying figures I’ve read in a historical. What makes him so scary is not just that he’s controlling and manipulative and abusive (which is terrifying on its own), but that he is considered a “gentleman” and thus has so much social as well as economic power over characters like Edwin and William. And when an abuser has that much power over you, there’s not much you can do about it, as evidenced by how utterly trapped Edwin is in Felix’s clutches.
Other reviewers mentioned that they’d wished for Edwin to share more of his problems with William, as is usual in romances, to build their relationship and sense of partnership, but that doesn’t really happen until close to the end when it’s forced to come out and even then we don’t see Edwin talk through his trauma and the abusive dynamic he lived under with Felix. I found myself also wishing for those conversations to happen earlier, but when we did reach the end and they finally were talking, I realized that this story is built a little differently than a lot of other romances and is less about building that partnership and life together (at least, in the way many other romances do), and more about learning how to trust again after you’ve been hurt before, which is a slow and treacherous process that takes time and patience and tenderness (that my sweet bby boy William readily provides). It’s like a book about blooming again, taking more control over your life and your happiness. It’s quite beautiful. Quiet, soft, and absolutely lovely.
I’d like to be more like William Bell. I think we should all strive to be as gentle and kind and compassionate as William Bell. My icon.
You rarely get to read historical fiction from the perspectives of members of the servant class, especially one where both love interests are servants. Though it was hard to read sometimes, I really appreciate the way this book depicts the reality of a life of servitude and how one’s entire livelihood is beholden to those with so much more power, influence, and resources (capital) than you. The power dynamics were particularly interesting and somewhat novel to me in this capacity– really apparent with Felix, who, by the way, is one of the more terrifying figures I’ve read in a historical. What makes him so scary is not just that he’s controlling and manipulative and abusive (which is terrifying on its own), but that he is considered a “gentleman” and thus has so much social as well as economic power over characters like Edwin and William. And when an abuser has that much power over you, there’s not much you can do about it, as evidenced by how utterly trapped Edwin is in Felix’s clutches.
Other reviewers mentioned that they’d wished for Edwin to share more of his problems with William, as is usual in romances, to build their relationship and sense of partnership, but that doesn’t really happen until close to the end when it’s forced to come out and even then we don’t see Edwin talk through his trauma and the abusive dynamic he lived under with Felix. I found myself also wishing for those conversations to happen earlier, but when we did reach the end and they finally were talking, I realized that this story is built a little differently than a lot of other romances and is less about building that partnership and life together (at least, in the way many other romances do), and more about learning how to trust again after you’ve been hurt before, which is a slow and treacherous process that takes time and patience and tenderness (that my sweet bby boy William readily provides). It’s like a book about blooming again, taking more control over your life and your happiness. It’s quite beautiful. Quiet, soft, and absolutely lovely.
October 7, 2025
My favorite aspects were all grounded in the historical setting. The ins-and-outs of daily life in the time period were very accessible even though I honestly know very little about it. It's depicted in such a way that I trust the author and the accuracy of all the details, of which there are so many without being overwhelming and instead being enjoyably immersive.
I quite liked Edwin and William's dynamic, but they spend much of the story apart. Also, the plot hinged on a lot on Edwin keeping multiple secrets from William-- the fact that he's being blackmailed, his ex-lover, and why he left his last job. It felt like all their relationship troubles could've been fixed had Edwin just been truthful from the beginning, and when he does open up about his fears, William is perfectly understanding and doesn't hold it against him one bit. At that point, it was just frustrating to read; there was plenty of opportunity for Edwin to continue confiding in William but he remains just as hesitant about it. If he trusts William with part of the story, why not tell him everything? William is disappointed when Edwin is closed off, but he never pushes the issue or challenges it, and it happened so often. He settled for a purely sexual relationship with Edwin but the sex scenes are all fade to black. That isn't a detraction in general, but since they both kept their feelings internal and their primary relationship was physical, it was surprising that we don't get to see their sexual chemistry.
I'm happy with the ending but it didn't feel deserved yet, it didn't feel like they were in such great love with each other that a) William would upend his whole life and b) Edwin would risk doing the same. The internal plot conflicts could have been solved by communication and the external conflicts conveniently disappear or have no consequences.
I quite liked Edwin and William's dynamic, but they spend much of the story apart. Also, the plot hinged on a lot on Edwin keeping multiple secrets from William-- the fact that he's being blackmailed, his ex-lover, and why he left his last job. It felt like all their relationship troubles could've been fixed had Edwin just been truthful from the beginning, and when he does open up about his fears, William is perfectly understanding and doesn't hold it against him one bit. At that point, it was just frustrating to read; there was plenty of opportunity for Edwin to continue confiding in William but he remains just as hesitant about it. If he trusts William with part of the story, why not tell him everything? William is disappointed when Edwin is closed off, but he never pushes the issue or challenges it, and it happened so often. He settled for a purely sexual relationship with Edwin but the sex scenes are all fade to black. That isn't a detraction in general, but since they both kept their feelings internal and their primary relationship was physical, it was surprising that we don't get to see their sexual chemistry.
I'm happy with the ending but it didn't feel deserved yet, it didn't feel like they were in such great love with each other that a) William would upend his whole life and b) Edwin would risk doing the same. The internal plot conflicts could have been solved by communication and the external conflicts conveniently disappear or have no consequences.
September 2, 2021
This book about Edwin and William, is a slow but romance. The central characters are both valets in Victorian England. Both raised in service, they are keenly aware of the dangers of their romance. Edwin, once engaged in a romance with a gentleman, was burned by the relationship and is now back in England working for a Viscount. Unfortunately his checkered past leaves him open to the blackmailing schemes of another. The blackmailer of course is William’s brother.
The two meet when both men are at a country even with their respective employers. Also present is William’s brother Cyril. Edwin is leery of beginning anything with William, not sure if he is a coconspirator in his blackmail and because of the treatment he received by his past lover. But love, or lust initially, prevails and the two begin their romance. Because both men are at the beck and call of their masters, they are relegated to stolen moments when they can both get away.
The book is well researched and written. The author does a wonderful describing the day to day life the servants, the hierarchy of upstairs/downstairs living, and the estates of the titled and wealthy. The love scenes are very discrete and focus more on the emotions of the act than the description of the act. The book also does a good job of detailing the limitations of both the wealthy and the servants. The status of the valet is a precarious one, while they are higher in status than the other servants, they are servants none the less. They are afforded freed ones and responsibilities not given servants of a lower status, they too are subject to the idiosyncratic whims of their employers.
Fear not, this is a HFN and will have you transported to a time of yesteryear. I enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The two meet when both men are at a country even with their respective employers. Also present is William’s brother Cyril. Edwin is leery of beginning anything with William, not sure if he is a coconspirator in his blackmail and because of the treatment he received by his past lover. But love, or lust initially, prevails and the two begin their romance. Because both men are at the beck and call of their masters, they are relegated to stolen moments when they can both get away.
The book is well researched and written. The author does a wonderful describing the day to day life the servants, the hierarchy of upstairs/downstairs living, and the estates of the titled and wealthy. The love scenes are very discrete and focus more on the emotions of the act than the description of the act. The book also does a good job of detailing the limitations of both the wealthy and the servants. The status of the valet is a precarious one, while they are higher in status than the other servants, they are servants none the less. They are afforded freed ones and responsibilities not given servants of a lower status, they too are subject to the idiosyncratic whims of their employers.
Fear not, this is a HFN and will have you transported to a time of yesteryear. I enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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