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Enlightenment #6
Liberated
A dutiful duke-in-waiting
George Asquith knows exactly who he is. The future duke. The responsible heir. The man who will marry well and manage his estates with quiet competence.
He has built his entire life on fulfilling his duty. Ever since one terrible mistake taught him the cost of reaching for what he really wants. Now he shoulders his responsibilities without complaint and keeps his impossible desires locked away.
When George leaves his family estate to attend the lavish wedding of the man he once believed himself in love with, he is resigned to a few days of misery. But then Theo Caldwell turns up. Theo, who George desperately admired as a boy—and who only seemed to despise George in return.
Theo, who betrayed him.
A feckless pleasure-seeker
As the younger son of a spendthrift aristocratic family, Theo Caldwell may have little fortune but at least he has his freedom.
After a lengthy stint abroad, seizing whatever pleasures came his way, Theo has returned to England to claim an unexpected inheritance—an inheritance he plans to sell off before returning to the Continent as soon as possible. But when Theo reluctantly attends a society wedding, his plans are thrown into disarray when George Asquith innocently stumbles upon his deepest and most dangerous secret.
The passionate encounter that follows should only have happened once—George resolved long ago to bury his desires, and Theo never beds the same man twice—but somehow Theo finds himself inviting George to go with him to the dilapidated estate he has inherited, and George finds himself accepting…
George Asquith knows exactly who he is. The future duke. The responsible heir. The man who will marry well and manage his estates with quiet competence.
He has built his entire life on fulfilling his duty. Ever since one terrible mistake taught him the cost of reaching for what he really wants. Now he shoulders his responsibilities without complaint and keeps his impossible desires locked away.
When George leaves his family estate to attend the lavish wedding of the man he once believed himself in love with, he is resigned to a few days of misery. But then Theo Caldwell turns up. Theo, who George desperately admired as a boy—and who only seemed to despise George in return.
Theo, who betrayed him.
A feckless pleasure-seeker
As the younger son of a spendthrift aristocratic family, Theo Caldwell may have little fortune but at least he has his freedom.
After a lengthy stint abroad, seizing whatever pleasures came his way, Theo has returned to England to claim an unexpected inheritance—an inheritance he plans to sell off before returning to the Continent as soon as possible. But when Theo reluctantly attends a society wedding, his plans are thrown into disarray when George Asquith innocently stumbles upon his deepest and most dangerous secret.
The passionate encounter that follows should only have happened once—George resolved long ago to bury his desires, and Theo never beds the same man twice—but somehow Theo finds himself inviting George to go with him to the dilapidated estate he has inherited, and George finds himself accepting…
ebook
First published February 25, 2026
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About the author
Joanna Chambers
50 books1,230 followersJoanna Chambers' muse likes red wine, coffee and won't let Joanna clean the house or watch television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 1, 2026
Do you know the feeling of starting a book, getting completely sucked in, and then surfacing at the end with a full heart and absolutely no notes for your review?
Because that’s exactly what happened to me here but I’ll try to convey how much I loved this anyway.
My GOD do I want to put George in a soft blanket, hand him his favourite book, press a kiss to his forehead and tell him that he’s NOT too soft, too sensitive, too emotional but utterly perfect just the way he is. I loved his character journey from being very much a careful, polite people pleaser to someone who learns that he can - and should - want things for himself. Very relatable for me and genuinely inspiring.
And ugh, don't get me started on his gentle yearning to just.. matter to someone, be cared for, touched, loved and just.. letting himself fall into all that with an open heart when it’s time to do so, so endearingly unguarded. Such a beautiful soul through and through.
Characters like Theo on the other hand - the one and done, no kissing, emotionally detached types - usually have to work a bit harder to win me over, but damn if Theo didn’t manage. I came to admire his spontaneous, adventurous and especially so very caring nature and can totally understand how he swept our dear George off his feet 🥹
He was the perfect counterpart to and complete opposite of George: A loner, closed off, terrified of being seen, of being a part of something or someone, armour and shield firmly in place, hiding his loneliness. Not out of preference per se, but out of necessity.
But when the time came, he was brave enough to let George in and it was glorious.
They were absolutely wonderful together.
And on top of all this, they go to Snowdonia, Wales, which transported me back to when I visited and could not BELIEVE the beauty that is this part of the earth. So thanks Joanna Chambers, for making me reminisce 🥹
There were a few tiny niggles here and there (like the time jumps, but that’s just me being greedy and wanting to be there every step of the way) but nothing that would lower my rating.
At its heart, this is a soft, character-driven, historical, slow-burnish romance about two very different men finding each other (again) - and learning what it means to be seen, wanted, and chosen.
No, there will never be another David and Murdo, that’s for sure, but Theo and George made me feel all soft and tender in my soul. A beautifully written warm hug in book form. Highly recommend!
4,5⭐️
Ps: I read this without having read books 4 and 5 and I managed just fine!!
Thank you GRR for the chance to read this wonderful ARC. This is my honest opinion!
Because that’s exactly what happened to me here but I’ll try to convey how much I loved this anyway.
My GOD do I want to put George in a soft blanket, hand him his favourite book, press a kiss to his forehead and tell him that he’s NOT too soft, too sensitive, too emotional but utterly perfect just the way he is. I loved his character journey from being very much a careful, polite people pleaser to someone who learns that he can - and should - want things for himself. Very relatable for me and genuinely inspiring.
And ugh, don't get me started on his gentle yearning to just.. matter to someone, be cared for, touched, loved and just.. letting himself fall into all that with an open heart when it’s time to do so, so endearingly unguarded. Such a beautiful soul through and through.
Characters like Theo on the other hand - the one and done, no kissing, emotionally detached types - usually have to work a bit harder to win me over, but damn if Theo didn’t manage. I came to admire his spontaneous, adventurous and especially so very caring nature and can totally understand how he swept our dear George off his feet 🥹
He was the perfect counterpart to and complete opposite of George: A loner, closed off, terrified of being seen, of being a part of something or someone, armour and shield firmly in place, hiding his loneliness. Not out of preference per se, but out of necessity.
But when the time came, he was brave enough to let George in and it was glorious.
They were absolutely wonderful together.
And on top of all this, they go to Snowdonia, Wales, which transported me back to when I visited and could not BELIEVE the beauty that is this part of the earth. So thanks Joanna Chambers, for making me reminisce 🥹
There were a few tiny niggles here and there (like the time jumps, but that’s just me being greedy and wanting to be there every step of the way) but nothing that would lower my rating.
At its heart, this is a soft, character-driven, historical, slow-burnish romance about two very different men finding each other (again) - and learning what it means to be seen, wanted, and chosen.
No, there will never be another David and Murdo, that’s for sure, but Theo and George made me feel all soft and tender in my soul. A beautifully written warm hug in book form. Highly recommend!
4,5⭐️
Ps: I read this without having read books 4 and 5 and I managed just fine!!
Thank you GRR for the chance to read this wonderful ARC. This is my honest opinion!
March 2, 2026
Just SO LOVELY! I’ve adored this entire series and George’s story did not disappoint. It’s rather a simple tale, no ground breaking plot line, but it’s just so beautifully done. I loved it. I easily fell in love with the characters and their predicament, the easy to read writing and the flawless historical sense of place.
This captured so much beautiful relationship development and chemistry between George and Theo, I whole heartedly believed in their connection. Their falling in love felt genuine and their feelings very real at every stage. The pacing felt authentic. Joanna Chambers delivered ALL the slow burn, swoony, pining, historical romance vibes that I love 🫠😍
There were some scenes that I would have loved to see play out on paper but this is probably just me being greedy. There is also a little bit of the dreaded miscommunication drama but it felt justified for their time period and wasn’t dragged out. In fact I’d say this was the least angsty and coziest story of the series. I also really enjoy how all the side characters felt like real people and how they contributed to the story (Martin🥹).
I think this series certainly should be read in order as it’s absolutely brilliant but I guess you could get by with just reading book 5 prior. This one builds on from the most recent book with Henry’s son George getting his own story, I loved the small parts when we get to see Henry, Kit and Freddy again. I really hope the author has plans for another book in this series.
Pre-read
Releasing 25th Feb 2026! I am SO EXCITED for this! ✨✨✨
Thankyou to the author for the ARC although I had also purchased this book in a pre-order
This captured so much beautiful relationship development and chemistry between George and Theo, I whole heartedly believed in their connection. Their falling in love felt genuine and their feelings very real at every stage. The pacing felt authentic. Joanna Chambers delivered ALL the slow burn, swoony, pining, historical romance vibes that I love 🫠😍
There were some scenes that I would have loved to see play out on paper but this is probably just me being greedy. There is also a little bit of the dreaded miscommunication drama but it felt justified for their time period and wasn’t dragged out. In fact I’d say this was the least angsty and coziest story of the series. I also really enjoy how all the side characters felt like real people and how they contributed to the story (Martin🥹).
I think this series certainly should be read in order as it’s absolutely brilliant but I guess you could get by with just reading book 5 prior. This one builds on from the most recent book with Henry’s son George getting his own story, I loved the small parts when we get to see Henry, Kit and Freddy again. I really hope the author has plans for another book in this series.
Pre-read
Releasing 25th Feb 2026! I am SO EXCITED for this! ✨✨✨
Thankyou to the author for the ARC although I had also purchased this book in a pre-order
March 1, 2026
⭐4.5
I really, really loved this story. After a proper book slump, I absolutely devoured it — stayed up far too late and finished it with that satisfied, slightly feral feeling when you know a book just hit 🥹
I adore Joanna Chambers’ writing, and coming back to this world felt like coming home. That said… I don’t think any couple will ever affect me the way Murdo and David did, so even when I love a new story in this series, it always feels slightly unfair to compare. They just own a piece of me. But that’s on me, not on the book.
Liberated is such a delicious slow burn — full of pining, longing, stolen looks, first times, and a truly beautiful HEA. What I especially loved is how it follows unconventional lines for the period. The Avesbury family has always stood slightly apart — politically progressive, quietly radical, questioning social norms in ways that feel brave and dangerous for their time. That backdrop makes everything heavier and more meaningful. These aren’t people blindly following society’s rules; they’re constantly negotiating them, bending them, sometimes breaking them. And in a world where loving the “wrong” person could cost you everything, that courage hits even harder. I genuinely can’t imagine how painful and unfair it must have been for couples to live — and try to love freely — in that era. It makes the happiness feel properly earned.
I struggled a bit with Theo. God, his denial tested me. I understood it — he’s spent his whole life protecting his heart so he could live as freely and safely as possible — but still, it was frustrating at times. And then there’s George… sweet, polite, eager George. I loved him. Absolutely delicious.
I did have a few issues. There were some moments that happened off page that I would have loved to see — their week on the road, those weeks at the farm… I felt a little robbed there. And the letter George left Theo, not mentioning his brother, felt like pure angst for angst’s sake. It didn’t quite make sense that he wouldn’t explain why he was leaving. I also selfishly wished that when they finally kissed, it had been stretched out for hours — because kissing felt like the intimacy Theo truly needed, the line he was most afraid to cross. After all that restraint, once he finally allowed himself that closeness, I wanted him to stay there. Just kissing. Letting himself feel it fully before anything else followed.
And speaking of intimacy… perfection. These two are perfect together. Super hot, yes, but more than that — the care, the attention, the tenderness mixed with some amazing dirty talk. Very typical Joanna. Very me-catnip. I loved it.
It was also incredible seeing Henry and Kit again. Ollie… my God, what an absolute menace. And yes, greedily, shamelessly, I wished for more Murdo and David. I know, I know — I’m impossible. But I can’t help it. I love them, Your Honour 😌
Overall, this felt warm, yearning, romantic, and deeply satisfying. Exactly what I needed.
I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.
I really, really loved this story. After a proper book slump, I absolutely devoured it — stayed up far too late and finished it with that satisfied, slightly feral feeling when you know a book just hit 🥹
I adore Joanna Chambers’ writing, and coming back to this world felt like coming home. That said… I don’t think any couple will ever affect me the way Murdo and David did, so even when I love a new story in this series, it always feels slightly unfair to compare. They just own a piece of me. But that’s on me, not on the book.
Liberated is such a delicious slow burn — full of pining, longing, stolen looks, first times, and a truly beautiful HEA. What I especially loved is how it follows unconventional lines for the period. The Avesbury family has always stood slightly apart — politically progressive, quietly radical, questioning social norms in ways that feel brave and dangerous for their time. That backdrop makes everything heavier and more meaningful. These aren’t people blindly following society’s rules; they’re constantly negotiating them, bending them, sometimes breaking them. And in a world where loving the “wrong” person could cost you everything, that courage hits even harder. I genuinely can’t imagine how painful and unfair it must have been for couples to live — and try to love freely — in that era. It makes the happiness feel properly earned.
I struggled a bit with Theo. God, his denial tested me. I understood it — he’s spent his whole life protecting his heart so he could live as freely and safely as possible — but still, it was frustrating at times. And then there’s George… sweet, polite, eager George. I loved him. Absolutely delicious.
I did have a few issues. There were some moments that happened off page that I would have loved to see — their week on the road, those weeks at the farm… I felt a little robbed there. And the letter George left Theo, not mentioning his brother, felt like pure angst for angst’s sake. It didn’t quite make sense that he wouldn’t explain why he was leaving. I also selfishly wished that when they finally kissed, it had been stretched out for hours — because kissing felt like the intimacy Theo truly needed, the line he was most afraid to cross. After all that restraint, once he finally allowed himself that closeness, I wanted him to stay there. Just kissing. Letting himself feel it fully before anything else followed.
And speaking of intimacy… perfection. These two are perfect together. Super hot, yes, but more than that — the care, the attention, the tenderness mixed with some amazing dirty talk. Very typical Joanna. Very me-catnip. I loved it.
It was also incredible seeing Henry and Kit again. Ollie… my God, what an absolute menace. And yes, greedily, shamelessly, I wished for more Murdo and David. I know, I know — I’m impossible. But I can’t help it. I love them, Your Honour 😌
Overall, this felt warm, yearning, romantic, and deeply satisfying. Exactly what I needed.
I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.
“All my life, I’ve prided myself on going my own way. Making my own decisions, and ignoring society’s expectations. But when I look at how I’ve lived and what future I imagined for myself, I can see now that I restricted my life to what I thought was possible, rather than what I actually wanted. Until now, I simply couldn’t envisage a life with someone I loved at my side. I’d already accepted that was out of my reach. Something I could never have. I truly believed my life had to be a solitary one.” He stroked his thumb over George’s cheek. “Until you, George. Until you came back into my life.”
Theo set his hand on George’s knee, and George smiled at him, his dark gaze content.
His lovely, dreaming boy.
No longer a hazy memory, but a here and now presence in his life. Solid and real, at his side.
Now, and for always.
February 27, 2026
Lovely addition to the series.
I adore the author's writing and enjoyed spending time with George and Theo, loved watching them fall in love.
The plot has a few pretty convenient twists, but I couldn't care less.
I adore the author's writing and enjoyed spending time with George and Theo, loved watching them fall in love.
The plot has a few pretty convenient twists, but I couldn't care less.
March 10, 2026
What an absolutely delightful book. Theo and George, my precious babies 😭 I think after David and Murdo, they are my favourites.
Theo and George were sort of friends when they were growing up, both going to the same all-boys school, where Theo was 2 years ahead of George and, in his own clumsy, misguided way, tried to help him fit in. George, for his part, had a crush on Theo growing up, even though he always felt as if those feelings were unrequited.
This book picks up right after Henry & Kit’s book, with Kit living at the Ducal state, and since George has to attend a wedding of his ex-best friend in London, Kit convinces him to visit his club and meet likeminded gentleman.
This decision creates a ripple effect that leads to George and Theo reuniting, forming a tenous friendship and going to Theo’s property, where their relationship grows.
There are some angsty moments in the third act due to some silly misunderstandings, but the situation was totally understandable and resolved fairly quickly and with a beautiful love declaration.
This book was cozy and sweet. I loved how Theo cared for George and called him his lovely boy.
Thanks to GRR for the Arc!
Theo and George were sort of friends when they were growing up, both going to the same all-boys school, where Theo was 2 years ahead of George and, in his own clumsy, misguided way, tried to help him fit in. George, for his part, had a crush on Theo growing up, even though he always felt as if those feelings were unrequited.
This book picks up right after Henry & Kit’s book, with Kit living at the Ducal state, and since George has to attend a wedding of his ex-best friend in London, Kit convinces him to visit his club and meet likeminded gentleman.
This decision creates a ripple effect that leads to George and Theo reuniting, forming a tenous friendship and going to Theo’s property, where their relationship grows.
There are some angsty moments in the third act due to some silly misunderstandings, but the situation was totally understandable and resolved fairly quickly and with a beautiful love declaration.
This book was cozy and sweet. I loved how Theo cared for George and called him his lovely boy.
Thanks to GRR for the Arc!
February 28, 2026
Have to love an MC who's team "I don’t do that sort of thing.” about kissing at the start then ends up so thoroughly whipped by the end that he's the one who can't get enough.
I'm a simple girl. I see a Joanna Chambers historical romance, I read it, I love it. This one was no different.
I adored both these men. George, an heir to a dukedom who thinks he's socially inept and as such has been hiding away at his ancestral home while his father (Henry) worries himself sick about him. Seriously. This man doesn't want to leave the grounds.
Henry thought coming out to his son, living with his partner and telling his son he doesn't have to bear the weight of carrying on the bloodline if he doesn't want to would make his son happy, but he seems even more lost than before.
And Theo. A happy go lucky second(?) son who has no responsibilities and loves it that way, a confirmed bachelor - not a euphemism this time, with a thirst for travel and adventure and a commitment to never staying in one place for long, or fucking any one man more than once.
Well. Except that pesky George who was two years below him at school and they've recently reconnected at a wedding for a mutual acquaintance AND met up at Redford's, where Theo gallantly agrees to show George around. For the night.
Now the guy's KISSING him? Hello? He doesn't do that! Why's George looking so hurt that he pushed him away? For God's sake, they barely know each other. And men like them don't do romance.
He knew from way back in school that the boy liked him, he couldn't have been more obvious if he'd tried. George is the kind of man who has no skill for subterfuge. A risky man to get involved with.
Ugh. He needs to extricate himself from that situation post haste.
So, naturally, he invites George to accompany him to Wales, where he has a property he needs to look in on.
As friends. Riiiiiiiiightrightright. No way that could possibly go wrong.
I love how idealistic and unashamed of it George was. Right from the jump, he tells Theo he doesn't think one night stands are for him and he'd want so much more therefore he'd rather not do anything more and avoid getting hurt. All or nothing.
Also love how adamant Theo was that men like them don't get to WANT more, because they can't have it, so why waste time wanting it? Sex or nothing.
Of course, they compromise by getting into an intense 'best friendship with benefits' that neither talks about because if you don't talk about it, is it really happening?
And it's like the whole universe is in cahoots to change Theo's mind about what men like them can want, and have, because there's more than just one couple like them that they know of, who are living proof that it can be done.
Well. Maybe not living. But I digress.
This has the kind of subplot I like, where it's not a parallel story but instead serves to prop up the romance? I don't know if that makes sense. Everything that happened was either directly responsible for character development or to create an enabling environment for their love story.
Henry. Wales. Robert. Prentice. Ollie. Freddy.
Not a single page wasted. As a bitter hater of unnecessary subplot, I have to give credit where it's due.
Even the miscommunication wasn't simply to prop up a third act breakup. The seeds had been planted from the wedding, the conclusions were something a sane person might jump to and most importantly, it didn't drag on for long enough to be a nuisance.
As always, there's the dread that comes from wanting something they're not allowed to want but it just made it that much more satisfying when they found a way.
Anyway. For anyone looking for tips on how to turn your commitment-phobic situationship into a devoted and adoring partner by slowly giving them enough rope to hang themselves with, look in on George, the patron saint of lost causes that have zero chill, all the earnestness in the northern hemisphere and whose understanding of compromise is to just gently stand your ground until the other person slowly negotiates themselves right where you want them.
Like.....Theo from the start wouldn't recognize Theo by the end.
Fair play to George.
I'm a simple girl. I see a Joanna Chambers historical romance, I read it, I love it. This one was no different.
I adored both these men. George, an heir to a dukedom who thinks he's socially inept and as such has been hiding away at his ancestral home while his father (Henry) worries himself sick about him. Seriously. This man doesn't want to leave the grounds.
Henry thought coming out to his son, living with his partner and telling his son he doesn't have to bear the weight of carrying on the bloodline if he doesn't want to would make his son happy, but he seems even more lost than before.
And Theo. A happy go lucky second(?) son who has no responsibilities and loves it that way, a confirmed bachelor - not a euphemism this time, with a thirst for travel and adventure and a commitment to never staying in one place for long, or fucking any one man more than once.
Well. Except that pesky George who was two years below him at school and they've recently reconnected at a wedding for a mutual acquaintance AND met up at Redford's, where Theo gallantly agrees to show George around. For the night.
Now the guy's KISSING him? Hello? He doesn't do that! Why's George looking so hurt that he pushed him away? For God's sake, they barely know each other. And men like them don't do romance.
He knew from way back in school that the boy liked him, he couldn't have been more obvious if he'd tried. George is the kind of man who has no skill for subterfuge. A risky man to get involved with.
Ugh. He needs to extricate himself from that situation post haste.
So, naturally, he invites George to accompany him to Wales, where he has a property he needs to look in on.
As friends. Riiiiiiiiightrightright. No way that could possibly go wrong.
I love how idealistic and unashamed of it George was. Right from the jump, he tells Theo he doesn't think one night stands are for him and he'd want so much more therefore he'd rather not do anything more and avoid getting hurt. All or nothing.
Also love how adamant Theo was that men like them don't get to WANT more, because they can't have it, so why waste time wanting it? Sex or nothing.
Of course, they compromise by getting into an intense 'best friendship with benefits' that neither talks about because if you don't talk about it, is it really happening?
And it's like the whole universe is in cahoots to change Theo's mind about what men like them can want, and have, because there's more than just one couple like them that they know of, who are living proof that it can be done.
Well. Maybe not living. But I digress.
This has the kind of subplot I like, where it's not a parallel story but instead serves to prop up the romance? I don't know if that makes sense. Everything that happened was either directly responsible for character development or to create an enabling environment for their love story.
Henry. Wales. Robert. Prentice. Ollie. Freddy.
Not a single page wasted. As a bitter hater of unnecessary subplot, I have to give credit where it's due.
Even the miscommunication wasn't simply to prop up a third act breakup. The seeds had been planted from the wedding, the conclusions were something a sane person might jump to and most importantly, it didn't drag on for long enough to be a nuisance.
As always, there's the dread that comes from wanting something they're not allowed to want but it just made it that much more satisfying when they found a way.
Anyway. For anyone looking for tips on how to turn your commitment-phobic situationship into a devoted and adoring partner by slowly giving them enough rope to hang themselves with, look in on George, the patron saint of lost causes that have zero chill, all the earnestness in the northern hemisphere and whose understanding of compromise is to just gently stand your ground until the other person slowly negotiates themselves right where you want them.
Like.....Theo from the start wouldn't recognize Theo by the end.
Fair play to George.
March 3, 2026
“Good boy,” Theo said softly. “Now, lie back and pay attention to what I do.”
Aah, I didn't want this book to end!
Only one pallet. So many good boy scenes. A really fun scene at Kit's old club.
God, I couldn't stand Ollie!
Note to self: add quotes, full review, and tags.
Aah, I didn't want this book to end!
Only one pallet. So many good boy scenes. A really fun scene at Kit's old club.
God, I couldn't stand Ollie!
Note to self: add quotes, full review, and tags.
March 3, 2026
OMG. I loved this book.
This is #6 in the Enlightenment series, and as someone who adored the first three so much (I actually emailed Joanna Chambers to gush about them and she very kindly wrote back), my expectations were high. David and Murdo will forever be one of my favorite couples. Books 4 and 5 were excellent, too ; this one follows the son of the Duke from book 5, so the emotional investment was already baked in.
But here’s the thing: Joanna Chambers hasn’t written in this historical world for six years. She’s done a few contemporaries (which I haven’t read yet), but no historicals in that time and she hasn’t published at all for three years. So when this ARC popped up on Gay Romance Reviews, I grabbed it immediately… and then got nervous. Could she still land it?
Reader. She landed it.
It felt a little like watching Alyssa Liu come back after years away from ice skating and win Olympic gold. That same “please let this be as good as I remember” tension and then the absolute joy when it is.
The writing was really beautiful. It reminded me that so many romances I read (even ones I enjoy) don’t necessarily have truly good prose. Chambers does. She never tips into anachronism. She uses language that feels authentic without being inaccessible (but can we please reintroduce the word “swiving” into the modern lexicon?)
There are moments of gorgeous metaphor, like the dangerous, jagged ridge of the mountain they climb mirroring the perilous and isolated direction Theo’s life has been heading.
The pacing was tight. This isn’t an action-packed book, but I was completely engaged the entire time. I loved both MCs. The antagonist isn’t a cartoon villain, more of a complicated frenemy, which was refreshing after reading so many of the mustache twirling variety.
The spice was excellent. Not the main event but perfectly calibrated for this story. And even though I love spice, it was the right amount for this story. There were also poignant moments that had me choked up.
If I have one small quibble, it’s that the communication breakdown toward the end felt a touch manufactured. But it’s forgivable because it serves the plot and the payoff works.
All in all: gold medal. I don’t hand out five stars lightly, and I usually reserve them for rereads. For some reason I rarely reread historical romance (no idea why), but this is five stars whether I revisit it or not.
Welcome back, Joanna Chambers. Please don’t make us wait another six years (and if you ever want to let us know how David and Murdo are doing, I wouldn’t complain one bit.)
This is #6 in the Enlightenment series, and as someone who adored the first three so much (I actually emailed Joanna Chambers to gush about them and she very kindly wrote back), my expectations were high. David and Murdo will forever be one of my favorite couples. Books 4 and 5 were excellent, too ; this one follows the son of the Duke from book 5, so the emotional investment was already baked in.
But here’s the thing: Joanna Chambers hasn’t written in this historical world for six years. She’s done a few contemporaries (which I haven’t read yet), but no historicals in that time and she hasn’t published at all for three years. So when this ARC popped up on Gay Romance Reviews, I grabbed it immediately… and then got nervous. Could she still land it?
Reader. She landed it.
It felt a little like watching Alyssa Liu come back after years away from ice skating and win Olympic gold. That same “please let this be as good as I remember” tension and then the absolute joy when it is.
The writing was really beautiful. It reminded me that so many romances I read (even ones I enjoy) don’t necessarily have truly good prose. Chambers does. She never tips into anachronism. She uses language that feels authentic without being inaccessible (but can we please reintroduce the word “swiving” into the modern lexicon?)
There are moments of gorgeous metaphor, like the dangerous, jagged ridge of the mountain they climb mirroring the perilous and isolated direction Theo’s life has been heading.
The pacing was tight. This isn’t an action-packed book, but I was completely engaged the entire time. I loved both MCs. The antagonist isn’t a cartoon villain, more of a complicated frenemy, which was refreshing after reading so many of the mustache twirling variety.
The spice was excellent. Not the main event but perfectly calibrated for this story. And even though I love spice, it was the right amount for this story. There were also poignant moments that had me choked up.
If I have one small quibble, it’s that the communication breakdown toward the end felt a touch manufactured. But it’s forgivable because it serves the plot and the payoff works.
All in all: gold medal. I don’t hand out five stars lightly, and I usually reserve them for rereads. For some reason I rarely reread historical romance (no idea why), but this is five stars whether I revisit it or not.
Welcome back, Joanna Chambers. Please don’t make us wait another six years (and if you ever want to let us know how David and Murdo are doing, I wouldn’t complain one bit.)
March 7, 2026
Book 6 • m/m 1820s historical romance •
Oh now this book was an absolute delight 🥹
George, who we meet in book 5, is a sensible and loyal heir to a Duke. He has always expected he’d marry, provide heirs and dutifully fulfill his responsibilities to his family. His life long best friend (and crush), Ollie Fletcher is about to be married. After learning of his father’s relationship with Kit, George is questioning everything about his life and his future.
George’s character is written with such… unselfish melancholy, it really pulls the heartstrings 🥺 George is such a loveable character. While reading, I felt so invested in him getting his HEA. He is such a gentle and kind soul who thought he knew his direction in life, and then he felt at a loss once everything he thought he knew had been turned on its head.
At Ollie’s wedding festivities, George becomes reacquainted with Theo. An older acquaintance from their boarding school days and summers at the Fletcher’s estate. Theo is a fun character (I LOVED THEO SO MUCH!). He lives a carefree lifestyle, giving in to his wanderlust, set on not ever settling down.
Theo inherits a property from a little known Uncle. George ends up visiting the place to help Theo take stock of the estate and the tenants, knowing that Theo would like a quick sale to fund his next adventures, to continue his solitary life.
But it turns out, Theo had never envisioned a shared life, settled down with someone he could love because he never thought it possible. Could it be possible??
I absolutely LOVED this.
Believable.
Tender.
But also… Ollie Fletcher was an insufferable shit 😅
5⭐️
2 🌶️
Oh now this book was an absolute delight 🥹
George, who we meet in book 5, is a sensible and loyal heir to a Duke. He has always expected he’d marry, provide heirs and dutifully fulfill his responsibilities to his family. His life long best friend (and crush), Ollie Fletcher is about to be married. After learning of his father’s relationship with Kit, George is questioning everything about his life and his future.
George’s character is written with such… unselfish melancholy, it really pulls the heartstrings 🥺 George is such a loveable character. While reading, I felt so invested in him getting his HEA. He is such a gentle and kind soul who thought he knew his direction in life, and then he felt at a loss once everything he thought he knew had been turned on its head.
At Ollie’s wedding festivities, George becomes reacquainted with Theo. An older acquaintance from their boarding school days and summers at the Fletcher’s estate. Theo is a fun character (I LOVED THEO SO MUCH!). He lives a carefree lifestyle, giving in to his wanderlust, set on not ever settling down.
Theo inherits a property from a little known Uncle. George ends up visiting the place to help Theo take stock of the estate and the tenants, knowing that Theo would like a quick sale to fund his next adventures, to continue his solitary life.
But it turns out, Theo had never envisioned a shared life, settled down with someone he could love because he never thought it possible. Could it be possible??
I restricted my life to what I thought was possible, rather than what I actually wanted.
I absolutely LOVED this.
Believable.
Tender.
“No man is an island, however much you might wish to be one.”
But also… Ollie Fletcher was an insufferable shit 😅
5⭐️
2 🌶️
February 26, 2026
Joanna Chambers always delivers reliable quality when it comes to historicals, and this was no exception. I didn’t remember the events of Restored particularly well but I’d been looking forward to George’s story, and this delivered beautifully. George is a wholly lovable MC, an earnest, kind, sensitive sweetheart of a guy who deserves everything good in the world. If anything, I was a little cross with Theo, the love interest who’s been to the same Gentlemen’s Academy of Defiant Hedonism and Commitment Phobia as Murdo Balfour, for taking so long to get his twitchy grasshopper act together and realise the error of his ways.
There’s a side plot involving the history of Theo’s uncle and the estate he’s left to him, which features strong side characters and satisfying conflict for our heroes. Instead of a third-act break-up, there’s a daft misunderstanding that I could just about swallow, and overall the pacing of the emotional beats was on point. Good smut, too – always a plus.
I was a little surprised that this wasn’t as tidily edited as JC’s books usually are – quite a few typos and repetition and other line level stuff that could have done with a more thorough edit. All in all, though, it was a highly satisfying afternoon’s read.
There’s a side plot involving the history of Theo’s uncle and the estate he’s left to him, which features strong side characters and satisfying conflict for our heroes. Instead of a third-act break-up, there’s a daft misunderstanding that I could just about swallow, and overall the pacing of the emotional beats was on point. Good smut, too – always a plus.
I was a little surprised that this wasn’t as tidily edited as JC’s books usually are – quite a few typos and repetition and other line level stuff that could have done with a more thorough edit. All in all, though, it was a highly satisfying afternoon’s read.
February 25, 2026
I really enjoyed this slow-burning romance between former classmates Theo and George. They have a history between them filled with inaccuracies, so watching them navigate their newfound friendship, which brings up many unresolved feelings and tensions, creates a fantastic foundation for their budding romance.
Overall, I loved being back in this world. The time period is so specific and unique, and having the feelings for one another so carefully constructed and hidden made for a fantastic entry point for Theo and George's relationship and romance overall. I couldn't get enough of these two and how perfectly well-balanced they are for one another. I cannot wait to see if more is to come from this world, and I will gladly return.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Overall, I loved being back in this world. The time period is so specific and unique, and having the feelings for one another so carefully constructed and hidden made for a fantastic entry point for Theo and George's relationship and romance overall. I couldn't get enough of these two and how perfectly well-balanced they are for one another. I cannot wait to see if more is to come from this world, and I will gladly return.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
March 3, 2026
Another delightful addition to this series! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
February 26, 2026
Joanna Chambers is such a solid writer, and this series is one of my absolute favorites, right alongside some of the old school KJ Charles books. I thoroughly enjoyed Liberated, though there were some very…convenient plot elements that made this a four instead of a five star read for me. The angst was also dialed down a bit from the rest of the series, which I kind of missed to be honest, but it absorbing nonetheless. I loved the whole land management tutorial that George gave Theo—I appreciate how in the weeds JC is willing to get with her historical accuracy, and that she manages to pull off keeping it engaging all the way through. All in all, probably the coziest, sweetest and most hopeful of the series. A balm for the times, perhaps.
March 3, 2026
4.25 stars
Quite lovely - I wish there were more m/m regencies! Or any type of m/m historical!
Minor quibble: I didn’t love the sex scenes, they were just too long for my taste.
Quite lovely - I wish there were more m/m regencies! Or any type of m/m historical!
Minor quibble: I didn’t love the sex scenes, they were just too long for my taste.
March 5, 2026
A- / 4.5 stars rounded up.
Joanna Chambers continues her Enlightenment series of m/m historical romances with Liberated, the long-awaited story featuring George Asquith, son and heir to Henry, Duke of Avebury (who got his HEA in book five, Restored ). Liberated is a charming and tender slow-burn romance between two former school-mates; a proper and reserved young nobleman and an emotionally detached jack-the-lad who seems to sail through life untroubled, both of whom are trying to find their place in the world and struggling under the weight of their own expectations and preconceptions. It’s a simple story with no overblown drama or earth-shattering plotlines, but it’s superbly done; the characters are appealing and relatable, their chemistry sizzles and the romance is beautifully developed.
Theo Caldwell has spent much of his life hinding behind the solidly constructed emotional walls he’s built so that he can live freely and safe from emotional entanglements. He knows who he is and isn’t ashamed of it, but he also knows that men ‘like him’ don’t get to have love or romance in their lives; it simply isn’t possible so why waste time looking for it? He’s a younger son so he doesn’t have any expectations or responsibilities to fulfil, and he enjoys the life of a carefree bachelor, never staying in any one place for long and never fucking the same man twice.
Ever since he learned the truth about his father and his relationship with Kit, George Asquith has felt more adrift and alone than ever. Being assured that he would never be pressured into marrying to carry on the family name hasn’t provided the kind of relief Henry seemed to think it should, because it’s turned everything George thought he knew about what his life would be upside down and inside out. He knows he’s not the most sociable person, that he’s too quiet, too sensitive, too earnest; he doesn’t like London and much prefers to spend most of his time at the family estate in Wiltshire – and now he doesn’t have to find a suitable bride and set up his nursery… what else is he supposed to do with himself?
You can read the rest of this review at All About Romance.
Joanna Chambers continues her Enlightenment series of m/m historical romances with Liberated, the long-awaited story featuring George Asquith, son and heir to Henry, Duke of Avebury (who got his HEA in book five, Restored ). Liberated is a charming and tender slow-burn romance between two former school-mates; a proper and reserved young nobleman and an emotionally detached jack-the-lad who seems to sail through life untroubled, both of whom are trying to find their place in the world and struggling under the weight of their own expectations and preconceptions. It’s a simple story with no overblown drama or earth-shattering plotlines, but it’s superbly done; the characters are appealing and relatable, their chemistry sizzles and the romance is beautifully developed.
Theo Caldwell has spent much of his life hinding behind the solidly constructed emotional walls he’s built so that he can live freely and safe from emotional entanglements. He knows who he is and isn’t ashamed of it, but he also knows that men ‘like him’ don’t get to have love or romance in their lives; it simply isn’t possible so why waste time looking for it? He’s a younger son so he doesn’t have any expectations or responsibilities to fulfil, and he enjoys the life of a carefree bachelor, never staying in any one place for long and never fucking the same man twice.
Ever since he learned the truth about his father and his relationship with Kit, George Asquith has felt more adrift and alone than ever. Being assured that he would never be pressured into marrying to carry on the family name hasn’t provided the kind of relief Henry seemed to think it should, because it’s turned everything George thought he knew about what his life would be upside down and inside out. He knows he’s not the most sociable person, that he’s too quiet, too sensitive, too earnest; he doesn’t like London and much prefers to spend most of his time at the family estate in Wiltshire – and now he doesn’t have to find a suitable bride and set up his nursery… what else is he supposed to do with himself?
You can read the rest of this review at All About Romance.
March 9, 2026
I really love this series. There is such a charm to these books and Joanna Chambers writes historical fiction so well. I haven’t read the first books in so long so I’ll have to reread them soon.
I thought George was such a sweet and caring character. I wanted him to find his place in this world and Theo was the perfect match for him.
Theo seemed a bit lost in life, even though he didn’t think so. Once he sees George he just cannot stay away from him. They may have started with a slightly rough start but the attraction was there and Theo couldn’t resist George.
Overall, a very sweet and enjoyable read!
I thought George was such a sweet and caring character. I wanted him to find his place in this world and Theo was the perfect match for him.
Theo seemed a bit lost in life, even though he didn’t think so. Once he sees George he just cannot stay away from him. They may have started with a slightly rough start but the attraction was there and Theo couldn’t resist George.
Overall, a very sweet and enjoyable read!
March 1, 2026
3.5 stars. I think there's too much going on in the world right now for me to have truly appreciated this book. I enjoyed the reading experience, but now that I've finished I don't have super strong feelings about it. It was beautifully written though, and felt like classic Joanna Chambers.
It tells the story of George - who is Henry's adult son from the previous book and heir to a dukedom - a sweet, considerate young man who attends a close friend's wedding in London and becomes reacquainted with Theo, a slightly older schoolmate that he harboured a secret crush on. They have an interesting run-in in a gentleman's club (one we are familiar with from Kit's story) and this leads to an improbable friendship. The two end up on a sort of road-trip to the Welsh countryside to visit a property that Theo has inherited and has no idea how to manage.
Theo is an interesting character, he is carefree and confident, but also kind of brash and a little thoughtless at times. He offers a kind of no strings attached opportunity for George to experiment with him, but George wants real intimacy, so he keeps Theo at arm's length, until he doesn't. The two inevitably end up in bed together and the chemistry was great. George has this immediately submissive vibe that was delicious but that we didn't get nearly enough of. I really wanted her to explore their sexual dynamic more, but it fell short here. I enjoyed their easy domesticity though, like even though their arrangement was always meant to be temporary, they move around each other like old lovers. And George is such a lovely and likeable person.
Anyway, there are some eleventh hour misunderstandings that drive them apart, and even though I hate last minute drama, it felt necessary; the book was almost frictionless without it. The pay-off is so good though, because in the wake of the drama, we get one of the most acutely romantic scenes I've read in a hot minute.
Overall a lovely book, that I really did enjoy, but will probably end up forgetting pretty quickly.
It tells the story of George - who is Henry's adult son from the previous book and heir to a dukedom - a sweet, considerate young man who attends a close friend's wedding in London and becomes reacquainted with Theo, a slightly older schoolmate that he harboured a secret crush on. They have an interesting run-in in a gentleman's club (one we are familiar with from Kit's story) and this leads to an improbable friendship. The two end up on a sort of road-trip to the Welsh countryside to visit a property that Theo has inherited and has no idea how to manage.
Theo is an interesting character, he is carefree and confident, but also kind of brash and a little thoughtless at times. He offers a kind of no strings attached opportunity for George to experiment with him, but George wants real intimacy, so he keeps Theo at arm's length, until he doesn't. The two inevitably end up in bed together and the chemistry was great. George has this immediately submissive vibe that was delicious but that we didn't get nearly enough of. I really wanted her to explore their sexual dynamic more, but it fell short here. I enjoyed their easy domesticity though, like even though their arrangement was always meant to be temporary, they move around each other like old lovers. And George is such a lovely and likeable person.
Anyway, there are some eleventh hour misunderstandings that drive them apart, and even though I hate last minute drama, it felt necessary; the book was almost frictionless without it. The pay-off is so good though, because in the wake of the drama, we get one of the most acutely romantic scenes I've read in a hot minute.
Overall a lovely book, that I really did enjoy, but will probably end up forgetting pretty quickly.
February 27, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyable. RTC
March 11, 2026
A worthy addition to one of my favorite series. This is definitely on the low-angst end of the Enlightenment scale, as two of the main obstacles of queer-histrom-with-aristos -- the dual imperatives to keep one's sexuality a secret, and to marry and produce heirs -- have already been cleared away by the fact that the aristo in question, George Asquith, is son and heir to the duke in book 5. Pappa Asquith is understandably sympathetic to George's queerness and his aversion to enter a sham marriage, and happily excuses him from such expectations: a great kindness -- albeit one easily exercised, given that George has a caring, sensible, straight younger brother who can inherit after Pappa and George shuffle off this mortal coil, or whose eventual sons will inherit in his stead -- but one that, unintentionally, leaves George feeling adrift and bereft of purpose. George has been suffering from unrequited, or at least unevenly requited, love for his best friend since adolescence; for him, the notion of committing himself to marriage, and thus removing the possibility of romantic and sexual intimacy from his life, is a noble sacrifice that at least provides meaning for his heartache. Without the sacrifice, all that's left is the pain.
Theo is not as fully realized as George, but he's an amiable enough character whose arc is mainly about embracing, rather than fleeing from, community and the responsibility -- and rewards -- it engenders. The uncle reveal was foreshadowed pretty heavily, but it was touchingly done, and I enjoyed the relationship that developed with Martin, as well as with the servants and the other tenants. And while crucially timed miscommunication is not one of my faves, this one at least resolved itself fairly quickly.
Four-starring mostly because the first chapter was exposition-heavy and clunky, and because there were typos, missed and misplaced commas, and missed words throughout -- this definitely should have gone another round with a copy editor. Also, while I enjoyed the way the inheritance issue was handled, I did think that George ended up too hands-off; he is, after all, going to be a duke one day, and even if he himself is not expected to produce heirs, he will still have massive responsibilities and obligations in that position. While it's great to see George and Theo settled, it seemed like he should at least keep a foot in, and given what we know of George -- not least, his genuine interest in estate management and responsible landlordship -- it felt uncharacteristic that he checked out so thoroughly from all things duke-related, even if he remains on loving and close terms with his family. But those are mostly quibbles; on the whole, this was a thoroughly enjoyable return to the Enlightenment world. Although I missed Murdo and David!
I got an ARC from the author via GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Theo is not as fully realized as George, but he's an amiable enough character whose arc is mainly about embracing, rather than fleeing from, community and the responsibility -- and rewards -- it engenders. The uncle reveal was foreshadowed pretty heavily, but it was touchingly done, and I enjoyed the relationship that developed with Martin, as well as with the servants and the other tenants. And while crucially timed miscommunication is not one of my faves, this one at least resolved itself fairly quickly.
Four-starring mostly because the first chapter was exposition-heavy and clunky, and because there were typos, missed and misplaced commas, and missed words throughout -- this definitely should have gone another round with a copy editor. Also, while I enjoyed the way the inheritance issue was handled, I did think that George ended up too hands-off; he is, after all, going to be a duke one day, and even if he himself is not expected to produce heirs, he will still have massive responsibilities and obligations in that position. While it's great to see George and Theo settled, it seemed like he should at least keep a foot in, and given what we know of George -- not least, his genuine interest in estate management and responsible landlordship -- it felt uncharacteristic that he checked out so thoroughly from all things duke-related, even if he remains on loving and close terms with his family. But those are mostly quibbles; on the whole, this was a thoroughly enjoyable return to the Enlightenment world. Although I missed Murdo and David!
I got an ARC from the author via GRR in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2026
Lovely…Loving Longing…Loyally Loving…
Second sons, spare heirs, often seem to be devalued and dismissed, yet the pressures of a first born and the inheritance of demands weighted and immovable and restricting make the life of a second son seem like a dream of unimaginable freedom, of opportunity, of choice, of indecision and boredom.
For the son of a Duke, an expected role has demanded his preparation and attention to maintain an awareness and knowledge of the dukedom’s operation and its demands. And so George has been prepared for his role by a devoted father, a father who until recently, long after his wife, George’s mother has died, has discovered a surprising second love of a man, a man who had established and maintained an exclusive gentleman’s club. It is there at a visit to this exclusive club after an attendance at a wedding that George encounters Theo, having reconnected with him at the wedding.
Theo and George, having attended the same boarding school, have long known and unknowingly admired each other. Their fortuitous encounter at this private club provides an opportunity for each to experience a shared preference while exploring a mutual attraction. For the experienced member, Theo, guiding his virginal friend George through such a shared experience provides them each with a joyfulness neither could have imagined.
And the surprising revelation prompts Theo to react with an invitation to George to follow him to his recently inherited property in Wales. And surprisingly, a newly awakened George, perhaps inspired by his father’s newly discovered love, accepts the invitation. Throughout the long, arduous horseback journey, the two converse in ways neither ever has before with a trust and honesty that forges and intensifies a relationship neither expected, experienced, or imagined.
This is a gentlemanly long unrequited and unacknowledged love that emerges and kindles into an undeniable love, a compelling and powerful love story.
Second sons, spare heirs, often seem to be devalued and dismissed, yet the pressures of a first born and the inheritance of demands weighted and immovable and restricting make the life of a second son seem like a dream of unimaginable freedom, of opportunity, of choice, of indecision and boredom.
For the son of a Duke, an expected role has demanded his preparation and attention to maintain an awareness and knowledge of the dukedom’s operation and its demands. And so George has been prepared for his role by a devoted father, a father who until recently, long after his wife, George’s mother has died, has discovered a surprising second love of a man, a man who had established and maintained an exclusive gentleman’s club. It is there at a visit to this exclusive club after an attendance at a wedding that George encounters Theo, having reconnected with him at the wedding.
Theo and George, having attended the same boarding school, have long known and unknowingly admired each other. Their fortuitous encounter at this private club provides an opportunity for each to experience a shared preference while exploring a mutual attraction. For the experienced member, Theo, guiding his virginal friend George through such a shared experience provides them each with a joyfulness neither could have imagined.
And the surprising revelation prompts Theo to react with an invitation to George to follow him to his recently inherited property in Wales. And surprisingly, a newly awakened George, perhaps inspired by his father’s newly discovered love, accepts the invitation. Throughout the long, arduous horseback journey, the two converse in ways neither ever has before with a trust and honesty that forges and intensifies a relationship neither expected, experienced, or imagined.
This is a gentlemanly long unrequited and unacknowledged love that emerges and kindles into an undeniable love, a compelling and powerful love story.
March 11, 2026
Thank you GRR for the arc!
I love this book. Seeing how Theo navigate their differences without endlessly drawing them out, resolving miscommunications without making the reader suffer a headache from eyerolling. The pacing was good, the plot was hopeful and comforting.
Definitely recommended for anyone who may enjoy historical romances, or for existing queer readers seeking a new flavour outside of contemporary settings.
I love this book. Seeing how Theo navigate their differences without endlessly drawing them out, resolving miscommunications without making the reader suffer a headache from eyerolling. The pacing was good, the plot was hopeful and comforting.
Definitely recommended for anyone who may enjoy historical romances, or for existing queer readers seeking a new flavour outside of contemporary settings.
March 12, 2026
4.5 stars. This author is one of my favorite authors writing historical mm romances.
The atmosphere was amazing, the environment ditto.
The romantic side was sweet and honest.
George and Theo were lovely people.
Another beautiful story from this series!
The atmosphere was amazing, the environment ditto.
The romantic side was sweet and honest.
George and Theo were lovely people.
Another beautiful story from this series!
March 12, 2026
I have read many MM historical romances, but Chambers remains my favorite author for one specific reason: her prose. She has a unique way of writing that feels fast-paced and modern, yet incredibly beautiful and atmospheric. She doesn't waste words, but every sentence carries emotional weight.
Liberated is a perfect example of this. It tells the story of George, a responsible heir who feels trapped by his future title, and Theo, a free spirit who thinks he is better off alone. Their journey from the busy London to the quiet Wales is a wonderful slow-burn romance.
I really enjoyed George’s personal growth. He starts as a man who only lives for his duty, but through his relationship with Theo, he discovers he is allowed to have his own desires. Theo is also a great love interest; he seems confident and detached, but he is actually protecting himself from getting hurt.
The chemistry between them is excellent. I really enjoyed the domestic moments they shared. Imo, it’s a lovely and heart-warming book. If you enjoy historical romance with great character development and a beautiful writing style, I highly recommend it!
Liberated is a perfect example of this. It tells the story of George, a responsible heir who feels trapped by his future title, and Theo, a free spirit who thinks he is better off alone. Their journey from the busy London to the quiet Wales is a wonderful slow-burn romance.
I really enjoyed George’s personal growth. He starts as a man who only lives for his duty, but through his relationship with Theo, he discovers he is allowed to have his own desires. Theo is also a great love interest; he seems confident and detached, but he is actually protecting himself from getting hurt.
The chemistry between them is excellent. I really enjoyed the domestic moments they shared. Imo, it’s a lovely and heart-warming book. If you enjoy historical romance with great character development and a beautiful writing style, I highly recommend it!
February 26, 2026
I have been in love with these series for a long time, Murdoh and David being one of my favourite couples of all time. This story's protagonists kind of feel like the amalgamation of everyone from the previous books. George having James' initial shyness, Henry's duty bound heart, Murdoch's practicality. Theo having David's self loathing (that is healed gradually by his lover), Kit's cynicism, Ian's fear of commitment. But it all works! I read this in one day and it felt like a favoured fever dream. Also the amount of accepting queer individuals in this story is so pleasantly refreshing to a lot of other historical romances, that it felt like a long cool drink of crisp cider on a hot day!
Also, while the other books gave ample villains to loathe and with downfall upon (I see you new Mrs lennox and I applaud you for walking all over that horrid man), this one doesn't really have any. Ollie is irritating and manipulative but... I don't think he deserves the title of a villain. Yes he is selfish and childish, but most of all his life is driven by jealousy, resentment and fears, probably exacerbated by his violent father. He is not a good person but neither is he evil. Once again I am so satisfied that the characters feel like real adults and not convenient plot stereotypes. All in all I love this book!!!!!
Also, while the other books gave ample villains to loathe and with downfall upon (I see you new Mrs lennox and I applaud you for walking all over that horrid man), this one doesn't really have any. Ollie is irritating and manipulative but... I don't think he deserves the title of a villain. Yes he is selfish and childish, but most of all his life is driven by jealousy, resentment and fears, probably exacerbated by his violent father. He is not a good person but neither is he evil. Once again I am so satisfied that the characters feel like real adults and not convenient plot stereotypes. All in all I love this book!!!!!
March 5, 2026
After we found out about George in the previous book, it is very exciting to see him get his own story. George and Theo couldn't be more opposite and I enjoyed seeing them find common ground as they began a casual relationship that morphs into something more over time. I especially liked how some of the natural obstacles of the story-George's eventual dukedom and Theo's propensity to never be tied down and having an estate all the way in Wales-were given an elegant and organic solution tha stemmed from Theo's realisation that he did have feelings for George after all. Both characters had a lot of growing to do, and it was lovely to see both see themselves differently after spending time with each other. The time spent at Theo's estate, and all the side characters that came with it were also a deeply enjoyable part of the novel.
March 2, 2026
Utterly charming, perfectly delightful. I was so hoping for a happy ending for George, and I got that in spades. Friends to lovers, found family, a past 'mystery', and it has to be said, packing quite a bit of heat 🔥🔥🔥 for one of Joanna's historical novels 😏. I also loved that she tied up loose ends for Freddy in the epilogue. As for you Ollie...well, it serves you right, treating former best friends like that with no regard or appreciation for their feelings. Why on earth would George want to stay in the closet for you?
Methinks a re-read of the entire series is coming up soon, and a place on my best of 2026 shelf for this particular instalment. Glad to have you back Joanna!
Methinks a re-read of the entire series is coming up soon, and a place on my best of 2026 shelf for this particular instalment. Glad to have you back Joanna!
March 10, 2026
I enjoyed this book but it was not quite as finished as her other books, the beginning was choppy and I didn’t feel much of a segue between the way the mcs started and how they end up. I thought at the beginning that Theo was an adventurer, and maybe they would climb the North Face or some such. Overall it was a fine light romance, but the setting in this series felt incidental.
March 1, 2026
I didn’t like Theo. Such a wishy-washy man! I kept thinking someone else would show up to be the love interest until I remembered we already had Theo’s POV. Sad to say this was my least favourite of the series. George deserved better.
March 4, 2026
3.75
Unlike the first 3 books of this series, I have read the last two only once. But, I still remembered George and wanted a happy ending for that melancholic young guy. The book succeeded in doing so.
Unlike the first 3 books of this series, I have read the last two only once. But, I still remembered George and wanted a happy ending for that melancholic young guy. The book succeeded in doing so.
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February 27, 2026We’re so back baby!!!!! I’ve missed JC books so bad😭
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