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Somerville Park #1
Object of His Desire
He thinks he’s just a wallflower. Little does he know he’s the guest of honor…
It’s the last night of a week-long house party in remote northern England. Every sensual delight imaginable is right at Henry Shaw’s fingertips. Yet all he wants is to be with his host, the deliciously handsome and enigmatic Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville. Henry’s certain it’s love, not mere infatuation. He’s also sure it’s hopeless. After all, the party’s purpose is to find Arsen a new mistress.
Arsen longs to leave the glittering, jaded world of the ton behind and find someone who will value him for himself, not his wealth and his title. He suspects that someone could be the strapping country gentleman he’s caught staring at him. Henry is loyal and dependable, nothing like his other acquaintances. Arsen sets a plan into motion, one designed to get Henry into his bed. One that includes a test of devotion.
Arsen never expected that in winning Henry, he risks losing his heart.
Free short sequel Pleasures of Somerville Park
Warning: This title contains a m/m romance between an obscenely wealthy marquis and a strong, silent country gentleman.
It’s the last night of a week-long house party in remote northern England. Every sensual delight imaginable is right at Henry Shaw’s fingertips. Yet all he wants is to be with his host, the deliciously handsome and enigmatic Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville. Henry’s certain it’s love, not mere infatuation. He’s also sure it’s hopeless. After all, the party’s purpose is to find Arsen a new mistress.
Arsen longs to leave the glittering, jaded world of the ton behind and find someone who will value him for himself, not his wealth and his title. He suspects that someone could be the strapping country gentleman he’s caught staring at him. Henry is loyal and dependable, nothing like his other acquaintances. Arsen sets a plan into motion, one designed to get Henry into his bed. One that includes a test of devotion.
Arsen never expected that in winning Henry, he risks losing his heart.
Free short sequel Pleasures of Somerville Park
Warning: This title contains a m/m romance between an obscenely wealthy marquis and a strong, silent country gentleman.
76 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2009
20 people are currently reading
692 people want to read
About the author
Ava March
27 books761 followersAva March is a bestselling author of sexy, emotionally intense M/M historical erotic romances. She loves writing in the Regency time period, where proper decorum is of the utmost importance, but where anything can happen behind closed doors. With over fifteen works to her credit, her books have been finalists in the Rainbow Awards and More Than Magic contest, and deemed ‘must-haves’ for Historical M/M romance by RT Book Reviews readers. Visit her website at www.AvaMarch.com to find out more about her books or to sign-up for her newsletter.
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Blog: www.avamarch.blogspot.com
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Twitter: www.twitter.com/ava_march
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
March 18, 2009
Ava March doesn't write fast enough. I was torn before I read this book. Part of me wanted to have it in my E-Files and tease myself with it being there to read (I always love the anticipation of reading a book), or buying it and reading it immediately because I felt like it's been FOREVER since I read an Ava March book! Honestly, I held out a couple of days, and that felt like forever, I am glad I put myself out of my misery and read it;)
Henry Shaw can't say no to Arsen Grey, the Marquis of Somerville. At 21, and being the third son of a country gentleman, Henry has resided in London for little over a year. When he met his former lover, Markus Drummond, at a gambling hall, he was grateful to have a more discreet relationship instead of a quick tumble with a faceless man. But, when Henry was soon introduced into the social circle of Arsen Grey, he became immediately infatuated. As he got to know Arsen, the more he became emotionally attached to him. Because Arsen's reputation proceeds him as a ladies man, Henry knows his feelings will never be returned.
When Arsen had invited Henry to his week long party at his country estate, Henry's first instinct had been to not attend. Arsen's parties have been known to turn into a sexual-free-for-all to all that attends. Henry didn't want to watch Arsen be seduced and persued by others, but since Arsen means so much to him, and because just being around Arsen makes him happy, he decides to attend.
Henry has never been more miserable in his life. Deciding not to partake in the sexual freedom everyone else has, he tries to hide himself in the corner and not be too noticed. All Henry wants is Arsen, so no other man will do.
Arsen Grey has always noticed Henry Shaw. As a friend in his social circle, Arsen has always liked Henry's honorable, sweet nature. Then one night several months earlier, Arsen noticed Henry's unguarded expression of longing and love as he stared at him. Since that look, Arsen's feelings have grown for the sweet man. Never one to deny himself of what he wants, Arsen sets a up a series of events that will bring he and Henry together, hopefully forever.
How can you not love Henry Shaw? Because of his height and more muscluar body, (remember he was a hard workin' country boy) it was refreshing for him to be such a gentle person. His loyalty and huge capasity to love makes him loveable himself. His sweetness and patience makes him the kind of hero I love to read about. I rallied behind him, and wanted him to find his happy ending with Arsen. I only hoped that Arsen deserved such a sexy and wonderful man.
Arsen deserved Henry's love. Yes, he was definitely well matched for our sweet Henry. Intelligent and sometimes a little too arrogant for his own good, I loved him immediately. His take charge-pro active personality was very appealing, and I loved how he had everything planned out so he and Henry could be together. I loved his "I don't give a damn" attitude with others (Not with Henry) and I enjoyed seeing that there is much more to Arsen that meets the eye and I thought he and Henry are perfect for one another.
I love Ava March's books! Her books are a must buy for me. They simply suck me into the world she weaves and I become addicted to it from the first letter to the last word. My gripe (yes it seems I am never satisfied...lol) is I wish the book had been longer. NOT because I thought the story was lacking in some way, but because I love Ava's writing and heroes so much I hate for it to end! Object of His Desire has a place on my keeper shelf and will continue to be a re-read for me when I need a great escape for a couple of hours.
5 out of 5 stars:)
Henry Shaw can't say no to Arsen Grey, the Marquis of Somerville. At 21, and being the third son of a country gentleman, Henry has resided in London for little over a year. When he met his former lover, Markus Drummond, at a gambling hall, he was grateful to have a more discreet relationship instead of a quick tumble with a faceless man. But, when Henry was soon introduced into the social circle of Arsen Grey, he became immediately infatuated. As he got to know Arsen, the more he became emotionally attached to him. Because Arsen's reputation proceeds him as a ladies man, Henry knows his feelings will never be returned.
When Arsen had invited Henry to his week long party at his country estate, Henry's first instinct had been to not attend. Arsen's parties have been known to turn into a sexual-free-for-all to all that attends. Henry didn't want to watch Arsen be seduced and persued by others, but since Arsen means so much to him, and because just being around Arsen makes him happy, he decides to attend.
Henry has never been more miserable in his life. Deciding not to partake in the sexual freedom everyone else has, he tries to hide himself in the corner and not be too noticed. All Henry wants is Arsen, so no other man will do.
Arsen Grey has always noticed Henry Shaw. As a friend in his social circle, Arsen has always liked Henry's honorable, sweet nature. Then one night several months earlier, Arsen noticed Henry's unguarded expression of longing and love as he stared at him. Since that look, Arsen's feelings have grown for the sweet man. Never one to deny himself of what he wants, Arsen sets a up a series of events that will bring he and Henry together, hopefully forever.
How can you not love Henry Shaw? Because of his height and more muscluar body, (remember he was a hard workin' country boy) it was refreshing for him to be such a gentle person. His loyalty and huge capasity to love makes him loveable himself. His sweetness and patience makes him the kind of hero I love to read about. I rallied behind him, and wanted him to find his happy ending with Arsen. I only hoped that Arsen deserved such a sexy and wonderful man.
Arsen deserved Henry's love. Yes, he was definitely well matched for our sweet Henry. Intelligent and sometimes a little too arrogant for his own good, I loved him immediately. His take charge-pro active personality was very appealing, and I loved how he had everything planned out so he and Henry could be together. I loved his "I don't give a damn" attitude with others (Not with Henry) and I enjoyed seeing that there is much more to Arsen that meets the eye and I thought he and Henry are perfect for one another.
I love Ava March's books! Her books are a must buy for me. They simply suck me into the world she weaves and I become addicted to it from the first letter to the last word. My gripe (yes it seems I am never satisfied...lol) is I wish the book had been longer. NOT because I thought the story was lacking in some way, but because I love Ava's writing and heroes so much I hate for it to end! Object of His Desire has a place on my keeper shelf and will continue to be a re-read for me when I need a great escape for a couple of hours.
5 out of 5 stars:)
January 12, 2013
**3.25 stars**
This was my first M/M historical and I find that I don't have much to say about it, hence my middle of the road rating. I didn't feel the love between the two men and, as I often feel with novellas, I felt like the author was trying to TELL the reader how to feel instead of letting them get to the conclusions themselves. Make sense? I felt rushed into their romance, which was lacking for me. The sex scenes were smoking, and I have a thing for super tall guys (Henry) so I added 1/2 a star.
This was my first M/M historical and I find that I don't have much to say about it, hence my middle of the road rating. I didn't feel the love between the two men and, as I often feel with novellas, I felt like the author was trying to TELL the reader how to feel instead of letting them get to the conclusions themselves. Make sense? I felt rushed into their romance, which was lacking for me. The sex scenes were smoking, and I have a thing for super tall guys (Henry) so I added 1/2 a star.
March 24, 2009
Men in period costume, servants and really lovely bedroom furniture. Historical pron, noice!
I have decided recently that I have a huge jones for unrequited, best bud love. I am addicted and this book fit the bill perfectly. Henry has much longing for his friend Arsen, but does not want to jeopardize their friendship by putting the moves on. Arsen was gorgeous and had a very commanding presence. Henry was sweet, big and well muscled and would be perfect as a burly footman in a James Lear novel. heh.
I enjoyed how the story unfolded, interspersed with memories of what they two men had meant to each other during the past year or so. It was sweet and tightly written with enough depth to get a sense of the characters relationship. The language was a little underdone at times in regards to speech. Perhaps a little more Valley High than Valley Forge, but enjoyable despite this.
Again, as with all slightly shorter novels, I’d like to see a more fleshed out book. But, this is only because I enjoyed it and have been spoilt with years of tome like historical novels.
This was a delightful read and am looking forward to more of her work.
Get it from Samhain or All Romance ebooks.
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/03/...
I have decided recently that I have a huge jones for unrequited, best bud love. I am addicted and this book fit the bill perfectly. Henry has much longing for his friend Arsen, but does not want to jeopardize their friendship by putting the moves on. Arsen was gorgeous and had a very commanding presence. Henry was sweet, big and well muscled and would be perfect as a burly footman in a James Lear novel. heh.
I enjoyed how the story unfolded, interspersed with memories of what they two men had meant to each other during the past year or so. It was sweet and tightly written with enough depth to get a sense of the characters relationship. The language was a little underdone at times in regards to speech. Perhaps a little more Valley High than Valley Forge, but enjoyable despite this.
Again, as with all slightly shorter novels, I’d like to see a more fleshed out book. But, this is only because I enjoyed it and have been spoilt with years of tome like historical novels.
This was a delightful read and am looking forward to more of her work.
Get it from Samhain or All Romance ebooks.
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/03/...
April 20, 2009
Ava March is one of the few historical authors whose work I can read and enjoy. This is mainly because her stories are rich in detail, without being bogged down by page after page of historical intricacies that aren't germane to the plot.
Object Of His Desire is yet another fabulous example of how well this author can suck the reader in from page one and hold them captive. At 94 pages, I read this in one sitting. It was concise, erotic, and packed a nice angsty punch. I highly recommend it.
Object Of His Desire is yet another fabulous example of how well this author can suck the reader in from page one and hold them captive. At 94 pages, I read this in one sitting. It was concise, erotic, and packed a nice angsty punch. I highly recommend it.
December 2, 2017
2.5
Meh.....the characters weren't developed enough & I didn't feel the love. A bunch of sex scenes don't equal love.
I did this on audio. The narrator was fine.
Meh.....the characters weren't developed enough & I didn't feel the love. A bunch of sex scenes don't equal love.
I did this on audio. The narrator was fine.
December 24, 2014
About 2/3rd part of this novella, I was ready to give this a 2.5*. It was a big fat MEH for me... Mostly because I thought the novella started way before the first page. Since it was novella, I missed the build-up relationship betwen Henry and Arsen. I thought their story before this week-long party would be interesting to read. Because of that, I felt disconnected from both men and the story did feel underdeveloped. The sex scenes were okay, but like always, they weren't able to charm me when I totally didn't care about the characters or plot. So I was ready to skim until the end.
... until around 60% mark when Henry opened up about his abusive ex-lover.
That scene suddenly CLICKED me into the story -- and I started to care for these two men. From that moment, I thought the tension of Henry -- who had been pining over Arsen and thought that his love was unrequited -- and Arsen was stronger. The sex had more meaning. And I loved the scene where Arsen finally . So the last 40% was good and how I liked my romance to be.
So 2.5* for the first 60% and 3.5* for the last 40%. Which made it an average 3-stars read.
... until around 60% mark when Henry opened up about his abusive ex-lover.
That scene suddenly CLICKED me into the story -- and I started to care for these two men. From that moment, I thought the tension of Henry -- who had been pining over Arsen and thought that his love was unrequited -- and Arsen was stronger. The sex had more meaning. And I loved the scene where Arsen finally . So the last 40% was good and how I liked my romance to be.
So 2.5* for the first 60% and 3.5* for the last 40%. Which made it an average 3-stars read.
September 7, 2009
Here it is another historical gay novel, which made my train trip shorter and more pleasant. Year 1821 was not very friendly for the same gender couples, but things could run smoothly if discreet enough. The ton on the first glance so modest and full of morality, but behind that mask was something more sensual and orgies were running freely. No, this book is not about huge gay gang bang in the historic costumes. Henry Shaw had unfortunate experience with his exlover, that man was pain and their relationship ended in unfortunate way. Henry was in love and desired another man. That man was so far from his reach and his desire was growing each day. One event changed his life. Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville was known by his racy parties for the ton in his country residence. Frankly orgies. Henry, one of his guest, was totally captivating by him and Arsen knew that, because object of desire could also desire something.
November 6, 2010
3.5 stars.
I liked this novella, but not as much as Bound by Deception and its sequel.
The writing is good as well as the setting. I also liked to find out that Arsen was scheming to have the young Henry for himself, and it was nice because Henry was completely oblivious to Arsen's interest, but in the end I missed some angst.
It's a book that I will probably re-read, because it's good to see someone get what he wants, but the characters are not as memorable as Vincent and Oliver from the Bound series.
I'd recommend this book for those who like historicals.
I liked this novella, but not as much as Bound by Deception and its sequel.
The writing is good as well as the setting. I also liked to find out that Arsen was scheming to have the young Henry for himself, and it was nice because Henry was completely oblivious to Arsen's interest, but in the end I missed some angst.
It's a book that I will probably re-read, because it's good to see someone get what he wants, but the characters are not as memorable as Vincent and Oliver from the Bound series.
I'd recommend this book for those who like historicals.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2011
3.5 stars (almost 4, except the inaccuracies - common, yet unfortunately widely accepted -during the sex scenes irritated me)
A good M/M historical romance (possibly Regency) that had a little bit angst, a little bit of hot sex, and good characterization for such a short novel. Definitely a quick read but worthwhile!
A good M/M historical romance (possibly Regency) that had a little bit angst, a little bit of hot sex, and good characterization for such a short novel. Definitely a quick read but worthwhile!
February 18, 2014
3.25 stars
Enjoyable but too short and thus undeveloped. The free sequel is a must-read with this one.
Enjoyable but too short and thus undeveloped. The free sequel is a must-read with this one.
March 2, 2020
Solid Ava March read. Short, sexy, and with a good amount of heart sprinkled in.
December 27, 2019
One thing I hate is when people write historical m/m books but basically have 21st century men in costume. The idea that people would be so open about something that would put even a noble man in prison, doesn't work for me. So this is not an accurate historical. Actually, it's a piece of porn fluff. We don't know much about the men except that the solidly built Henry Shaw, a third son of someone not very important, has a crush on the much richer and lordlier Arsen Sommerville. And then a very long sex scene (takes maybe 65% of the book) and then a rush to declarations of love, which felt much too soon. So I bought this in 2010 and couldn't remember a single thing about it now, reread and deleted it. There are much better historical m/m about.
November 2, 2022
There wasn't a whole lot of plot in this book, but I found it very enjoyable. Some good emotional angst and nice relationship development amidst a lot of sex scenes.
May 13, 2021
I really liked that book. It was a quick and lovable reading.
Read
May 29, 2009Ava March is a new author for me, but I heard about her work in the past; she is an historical romance writer with the bonus that she writes man on man relationship, so she brings together two things I love so much. So when I saw that there was a new historical novella by her, of course I launched myself on it. And I'm not disappointed! I usually tag as "breeches rippers" all those stories where men dressed in thos frilly but so beautiful garments, and if one of the men proceeds to "rip" them off from the other man, even better. Not always this happens, but when an author manages to write a breeches rippers, with the rip part, without having the men loose their masculinity this is definitely a plus.
Henry Shaw is a country man; third son of an above the average but not wealthy family, he sought his own fortune in London. And then London was also the place where he can satisfy his secret "dark" desire easier than at home. Henry prefers the company of men, and he met a man, Markus, who not only was willing to teach him a thing or two about loving a man, but also introduced Henry to the most exclusive inner circle of London's best society. The relationship with Markus was doomed, but not since it was a man on man relationship, but since Markus was not an honorable man, and Henry puts honor among everything else. And this is the reason why Henry took notice of Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville. All right, Arsen was also an handsome man, but above all Henry was drawn by his behavior. Pity that Arsen was without doubt out of his league and also straight. So it was quite a surprise when Henry receives the invite to the one week country party holds by Arsen in his estate; oh, Henry knows that this one is not the classical meeting, but more a way for Arsen to choose his new mistress among all the ladies, of easy virtue, that will attend. And the other men will have the chance to amuse themself with whom will be not chosen by Arsen. But Henry is not interested in women, he has an unrequited love only for Arsen.
By the classical standard, Object of His Desire is a pure savage romance: the dashing lord, wealthy and handsome, a notorious rake but also a man of honor; the blushing country "virgin" (well, not exactly virgin in this case...) who has nothing if not his good look and his virtue; the unspeakable offer to be the kept mistress that obviously the virtuous country mouse will honorable reject... or not? well is this or not a savage romance? and our two hero are they or not both willing men? Once the boundaries of society are overcome by the convenient set of an orgy in a country house, and also by the wealth of the lord, what prevents them to enjoy the carnal pleasure? And so free rein to an erotic night that rivals with the best historical erotic scene I read (gay and not).
I like as the author manage to blend the rules for historical romance with the erotic elements, all mixed up with the gay romance. I like as all seems realistic, and how both men don't loose their role of men: true, they are in love, or lust, with another man, but neither of them is the "female". Arsen maybe is a bit more selfish, Henry maybe is a bit more respectful, aware of the difference in class between Arsen and him, but both of them are aware of their valor, and of what they can bring to their relationship. Pity that this is only a novella, since I wouldn't mind to read something more than one night in their life.
http://elisa-rolle.livejournal.com/53...
Henry Shaw is a country man; third son of an above the average but not wealthy family, he sought his own fortune in London. And then London was also the place where he can satisfy his secret "dark" desire easier than at home. Henry prefers the company of men, and he met a man, Markus, who not only was willing to teach him a thing or two about loving a man, but also introduced Henry to the most exclusive inner circle of London's best society. The relationship with Markus was doomed, but not since it was a man on man relationship, but since Markus was not an honorable man, and Henry puts honor among everything else. And this is the reason why Henry took notice of Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville. All right, Arsen was also an handsome man, but above all Henry was drawn by his behavior. Pity that Arsen was without doubt out of his league and also straight. So it was quite a surprise when Henry receives the invite to the one week country party holds by Arsen in his estate; oh, Henry knows that this one is not the classical meeting, but more a way for Arsen to choose his new mistress among all the ladies, of easy virtue, that will attend. And the other men will have the chance to amuse themself with whom will be not chosen by Arsen. But Henry is not interested in women, he has an unrequited love only for Arsen.
By the classical standard, Object of His Desire is a pure savage romance: the dashing lord, wealthy and handsome, a notorious rake but also a man of honor; the blushing country "virgin" (well, not exactly virgin in this case...) who has nothing if not his good look and his virtue; the unspeakable offer to be the kept mistress that obviously the virtuous country mouse will honorable reject... or not? well is this or not a savage romance? and our two hero are they or not both willing men? Once the boundaries of society are overcome by the convenient set of an orgy in a country house, and also by the wealth of the lord, what prevents them to enjoy the carnal pleasure? And so free rein to an erotic night that rivals with the best historical erotic scene I read (gay and not).
I like as the author manage to blend the rules for historical romance with the erotic elements, all mixed up with the gay romance. I like as all seems realistic, and how both men don't loose their role of men: true, they are in love, or lust, with another man, but neither of them is the "female". Arsen maybe is a bit more selfish, Henry maybe is a bit more respectful, aware of the difference in class between Arsen and him, but both of them are aware of their valor, and of what they can bring to their relationship. Pity that this is only a novella, since I wouldn't mind to read something more than one night in their life.
http://elisa-rolle.livejournal.com/53...
June 27, 2010
Good m/m Regency romance (I'll give you a minute to recover) about a young man who's been at a debauched house party for a week. He hasn't participated because he's been pining for the lord who's hosting the party. Alas, he knows his affections won't be returned, as the lord is ostensibly using the week to audition for his next mistress...
August 26, 2015
I enjoy Ava March a lot but I have to say this isn't one of her better outings. It's just too short. Her flushed out characters and excellent since of place is just not here. The story is just too short. What makes this so wrong is that Henry & Arsen are interesting characters that are wasted.
Check out His Client or her Bound series to read Ava March at her best.
Check out His Client or her Bound series to read Ava March at her best.
May 25, 2018
2.5 stars rounded up.
The narration was great.
The story was minimal and questionable, not enough character development, and annoying attitudes (guess what? women have asshole too) but it could have been fantastic. Unfortunately, fir me, March tends to be a little too unrealistic in her historical facts, and a little too heteronormative in her attitudes in general. Not bad, just not good either.
The narration was great.
The story was minimal and questionable, not enough character development, and annoying attitudes (guess what? women have asshole too) but it could have been fantastic. Unfortunately, fir me, March tends to be a little too unrealistic in her historical facts, and a little too heteronormative in her attitudes in general. Not bad, just not good either.
July 7, 2025
A short, low conflict, high heat historical romance with great characters. There is a surprising amount of heart considering the entire story takes place in 24 hours. A really enjoyable read for when you are in the mood for something really smutty but want feelings in the mix as well.
January 19, 2022
3.5 stars
Great narration of this short but definitely sweet story of Henry and Asher finding their way in to ea h others britches
Great narration of this short but definitely sweet story of Henry and Asher finding their way in to ea h others britches
March 18, 2012
This review was originally published on my blog Joyfully Jay.
Henry Shaw is visiting the country home of Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville, for one of his famous house parties. Henry has no real interest in the wild debauchery, but he can't resist the chance to spend time with Arsen. Henry lusts after Arsen but has no expectations of a future together. Arsen is well known for his mistresses and it is commonly accepted that this party is a chance for him to pick the next one. So Henry is quite surprised when Arsen makes it clear that Henry is the one he really wants.
For Arsen, this house party is just an excuse to get some time with Henry. He has secretly desired him for quite some time and now intends to make Henry his. But as much as Henry wants Arsen, he has just come out of a bad relationship with a man who abused him and took advantage of him. He worries that he will not have an equal partnership with the older, more powerful marquis, something he can't handle after his difficult past. His concerns grow when he realizes Arsen has been testing his loyalty and discretion over the course of the week. Arsen must convince Henry that he truly cares for him and wants a real relationship before Henry walks away.
I love March's historicals and really enjoyed Object of His Desire. Henry and Arsen are incredibly hot together and even in short book we get a lot of steamy goodness. I loved the differences between them, with Henry as sort of a gentle giant. He is younger and from a less prominent background than Arsen, but also solid, dependable, and caring. And while Arsen is wealthy and privileged, he is also a good and thoughtful man. I loved watching each man's pleasure as he realized that the object of his desire actually wanted him badly in return.
This is a fairly short story (just a bit over 50 pages) and it focuses mostly on a two-day period at the end of the house party. At this point both men have strong feelings for one another that have developed before the book begins. I wish we had just a bit more detail on how their relationship bloomed prior to the party. We know they travel in similar social circles, but the strong feelings they have for one another presumably developed out of more than casual contact, but that is not really explained. Again, in such a short story all these things can not be fleshed out in detail, but I think it would have helped me to better understand the connection they had prior to night of the party.
Overall I really enjoyed this story. I really liked both Henry and Arsen and loved the way they come together despite their different backgrounds. They both seem like such good men that I was happy that they could find their way to one another and found that their affections and desires were returned.
Henry Shaw is visiting the country home of Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville, for one of his famous house parties. Henry has no real interest in the wild debauchery, but he can't resist the chance to spend time with Arsen. Henry lusts after Arsen but has no expectations of a future together. Arsen is well known for his mistresses and it is commonly accepted that this party is a chance for him to pick the next one. So Henry is quite surprised when Arsen makes it clear that Henry is the one he really wants.
For Arsen, this house party is just an excuse to get some time with Henry. He has secretly desired him for quite some time and now intends to make Henry his. But as much as Henry wants Arsen, he has just come out of a bad relationship with a man who abused him and took advantage of him. He worries that he will not have an equal partnership with the older, more powerful marquis, something he can't handle after his difficult past. His concerns grow when he realizes Arsen has been testing his loyalty and discretion over the course of the week. Arsen must convince Henry that he truly cares for him and wants a real relationship before Henry walks away.
I love March's historicals and really enjoyed Object of His Desire. Henry and Arsen are incredibly hot together and even in short book we get a lot of steamy goodness. I loved the differences between them, with Henry as sort of a gentle giant. He is younger and from a less prominent background than Arsen, but also solid, dependable, and caring. And while Arsen is wealthy and privileged, he is also a good and thoughtful man. I loved watching each man's pleasure as he realized that the object of his desire actually wanted him badly in return.
This is a fairly short story (just a bit over 50 pages) and it focuses mostly on a two-day period at the end of the house party. At this point both men have strong feelings for one another that have developed before the book begins. I wish we had just a bit more detail on how their relationship bloomed prior to the party. We know they travel in similar social circles, but the strong feelings they have for one another presumably developed out of more than casual contact, but that is not really explained. Again, in such a short story all these things can not be fleshed out in detail, but I think it would have helped me to better understand the connection they had prior to night of the party.
Overall I really enjoyed this story. I really liked both Henry and Arsen and loved the way they come together despite their different backgrounds. They both seem like such good men that I was happy that they could find their way to one another and found that their affections and desires were returned.
November 30, 2024
Henry Shaw is utterly besotted with Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville. But he knows nothing can come of this. Invited by the Marquis to a week-long party where the best whores (both female and male) that could be found in London, were competing of becoming the next mistress to Lord Somerville.
But Arsen has been scheming for three months to lure Henry in his bed, so much so that Henry was completely oblivious to Arsen's interest.
Part of the Somerville Park Series
September 17, 2015
It was hard enough to be in proximity to the handsome marquis. To be able to look and never touch. But to be forced to stand alone, to watch Arsen intimately touch another… Henry’s heart would fracture for certain.
He thinks he’s just a wallflower. Little does he know he’s the guest of honor…
Interesting start, hot sex, like the scene when Arsen finally let someone took his virgin arse, but I think it's way too fast for the L words. But then I realized...that this is novella. So, yeah....no enough portion for developing the characters and the relationship.
But - again - I don't really care much cuz I enjoying the reading.
So, 3 stars is enough.
November 6, 2011
Another awesome book, the chemistry between both main characters is awesome, both characters are strong in their own right, and it felt real, because of that, no one rescues the other, both of them encounter and fall for the other.
I'm really quickly becoming an Ava March fan, so far i haven't found a chick with dick, both main characters are men and think/act like it and nothing else.
I'm really quickly becoming an Ava March fan, so far i haven't found a chick with dick, both main characters are men and think/act like it and nothing else.
September 1, 2012
3.5 stars
Cute, fairly short story. I loved the uncertainty surrounding the potential relationship. Had the story been expanded more, I would have rated it 4 stars. As it was, it wrapped up very quickly. But it was a fun quick read and I would recommend it if you are looking for short historical fix :)
Cute, fairly short story. I loved the uncertainty surrounding the potential relationship. Had the story been expanded more, I would have rated it 4 stars. As it was, it wrapped up very quickly. But it was a fun quick read and I would recommend it if you are looking for short historical fix :)
August 15, 2014
This is a typical Ava March ... enough period language to transport you back in time ... lovely, arrogant hero with the more inexperienced, lower class lover ... as long as you ignore the reality of what their hygiene was like, you can enjoy the story ... think too hard about rimming a bum that hasn't been bathed for months & you're more likely to turn green than be titillated.
April 24, 2017
Pretty much the same feeling I had the first time I read it. It was ok, but didn't really make much of an impression. Listening to the audio version also highlighted the really flowery language and not in a good way. I did like the new-to-me narrator, Tim Gilbert. Good if you're in the mood for a short historical erotic romance.
February 19, 2014
3.5 Stars
Enjoyable short about Arsen and Henry. At first, it appears that Henry's love is unrequited. But, Arsen just wants to be sure of what he's getting. Although the "test" almost loses him the object of his desire, all's well that ends well and what not.
Bottom line: Lovely but too short!
Enjoyable short about Arsen and Henry. At first, it appears that Henry's love is unrequited. But, Arsen just wants to be sure of what he's getting. Although the "test" almost loses him the object of his desire, all's well that ends well and what not.
Bottom line: Lovely but too short!
April 14, 2011
Very good, quick, sexy and sweet read about two English gentlemen. Henry Shawn is hopelessly in love with his friend, Arsen Grey, Marquis of Somerville. Henry is sure his love is and will remain unrequited. Arsen, well, he has plans of his own.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
October 4, 2009
I really loved this book a lot! I love it when the "wallflower" or Nice guy finishes first theme, and Object of His Desire delievered that in spades! Can't wait to read more from this author.
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