Tempting the Bluestocking

The Gentleman Courtesans #0.5

by Victoria Vale

A prequel novella to The Gentleman Courtesans series
After her first lackluster experience with intercourse, Clare Dunnaby swears off romantic entanglement for good. At twenty-one years old, she remains unattached and content—pursuing the study of botany and geology with single-minded focus. She remains certain she has no need for the amorous attentions of the opposite sex … at least, until she enters her bedchamber to find a nude man waiting in her bed.
Desperation has driven Edward Norton to accept an arrangement as a courtesan to Clare. Purchased as a surprise for her birthday, his mission seems cut and dry: seduce the outspoken bluestocking into bed with him and keep her happy for the duration of their one-month contract. If he can do that, he’ll earn enough money to set his failing shipping company right again.
But when a strong physical attractions evolves into something more, it becomes clear that thirty days will never be enough. When their time runs out, will they choose to build on the visceral connection born of a contract, or will pride and stubbornness keep them apart?

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Novella, M F Romance, Erotica, Erotic Historical Romance

131 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 29, 2019

About the author

Victoria Vale writes erotic romance that refuses to stay in its lane. She hops between history and suspense, blending danger with desire until the edges blur. Her stories are marked by bold heroines, irresistible heroes, and heat that never behaves the way it should. Love Me Darkly (2025) proves passion is always at its best when it misbehaves.

Reviews

[Lyn❤Loves❤Listening to Real Voices Only!!!!❤️🎧📚 Addict ON HIATUS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio – 5+++ Stars Darcy Stark Rocks!!! I’ve got to say that when D.S. narrates historical romances, that’s when he shines the most for me. His performance is AMAZING!

Story – 5+++ Short, Satisfying, Steamy Stars

This was my kind of m/f historical romance because the heroine was incredibly sweet but forward thinking and independent. She also happened to be a nerd (male or female, I have a weakness for nerds!).

The hero totally won my heart also because he was not threatened by the heroine’s intelligence and was endeared by what others would consider oddities.

I’m hoping that the rest of this series, which features gentlemen courtesans and their keepers, continues as wonderfully as it has started. Of course, keeping Darcy Stark as the narrator is a MUST, and including at least one M/M (not mmf or mfm but M/M) romance as part of the series would have me in heaven.

I’m not sure about the rest of the series, but this story did not involve cheating or sex with other before or after the H and h meet.

[Zuzu · Rating 3 out of 5]

**Thank you to my Secret Santa**

3.5 stars
I really enjoyed these characters. They were both great, especially CeCe. As as much as I don't mind instalove, things just happened too fast. If it had been longer, rather than a novella, it would have been better for me. I still plan to read the next book because the premise is so intriguing.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

After her first & only lacklustre experience with intercourse, Clare Cecelia Dunnaby swears off romantic entanglement for good. Now twenty-one years old, she pursues the study of botany and geology with single-minded focus. She remains certain she has no need for the amorous attentions of the opposite sex, until she enters her bedchamber to find a nude man waiting in her bed – her birthday present from her Aunt Helene.
Edward Norton recently lost his much loved father but all he inherited were debts & a shipping company on the brink of sinking. So when he’s approached by his friend Hugh to become a Gentleman Courtesan he accepts & has a one month contract to seduce Cece and keep her happy.
This is the prequel novella to the series, it’s a captivating, engrossing, hot read. As with all the author's books it's very well written, the characters have plenty of depth. Cece & Edward’s first meeting is priceless, as is her initial reaction. I loved both Edward & Cece but it's Aunt Helene that stole the book for me – I wish I had an aunt who gave me a birthday present like that!! Edward & Cece both quickly discover that there's more to their meetings than fulfilling the contract. Benedict totally intrigues me & I'm really looking forward to his story
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Miriam still reading! HIATUS from GR · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars audio!
5 stars story! If more heroine's were portrayed like the one in this book I wouldn't have issues reading more M/F romances.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Destiny, Fate , call it what you will , these two were meant to be together.

Victoria has another hit on her hands with the prequel to Portrait of A Lady, Hugh’s story.

This is Edward the one that drove Benedict to fury , and Clare to Passion.

Edward has inherited a business and responsibilities, all of them failing through lack of money.
Becoming a courtesan is the best way to fill his pockets quickly, and it seems his heart too .

Clare has had a bad experience with intimacy, it’s not fulfilling, and she has no intention of repeating it .
Then her devious aunt buys her the Ultimate birthday gift . A Courtesan, Edward to be more precise.

Let’s say she changes her mind when he shows her what his hands and mouth can lead her to.
No matter the rules of the courtesan business, Edward is smitten, and so it seems is Clare.

Only Benedict seems to be uppity about the results .
I can’t wait for his book ( rubs hands , smiling evilly)

An excellent book that I really enjoyed reading, a quick , passionate and sweet romance.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4 stars
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖 3 of 5 books
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋 3 of 5 butterflies
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔 3 of 5 broken hearts
Sexual Tension: ⚡️⚡️⚡️ 3 of 5 lightnings
Romance: 💞💞💞 3 of 5 hearts
Sensuality: 💋💋💋 3 of 5 kisses
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑🍑 5 peaches
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥 3 fires
Hero Jerk Scale: 😡😡 2 of 5 angry faces
Humor: 😁 a bit
(These are all personal opinion about the book except the Steam Scale rating which follows our steam chart for facebook groups Upturned Petticoats and Undone Cravats AND The Ton and the Tartans groups)

This is the prequel novella that kicks off the gentleman courtesan series. It was great getting to see a man get into the business of being a courtesan and the plot just felt really different from anything else I've read in HR lately.

Edward has inherited a debt riddled shipping business and he desperately needs funds to get it back into the black. He is offered the scandalous position of being a gentleman courtesan and is hired by Clare's hilarious Aunt as a birthday gift.

Give this a try if you are in the mood for:
-High steam
-Regency time period (1818 London)
-A non virgin heroine
-No villain or mystery going on - the focus is on the couple

I found the premise of this story just really fun, silly, and completely sexy. It was a short quick read, but still felt complete to me (though yes a bit short). I did miss a bit of the character development, but again it was a novella so that's hard to pack in there. The sex was great but I did want a bit more feeling in it. The ending was a tad frustrating for me, because both characters acted a bit idiotic, but it still worked out.

I'm excited to read more with the series!

Locations of kisses/sex scenes

22% first kiss
41% pleasure for her followed by full sex scene (her on top)
52% sex scene
72% blowjob, 69 with climax for her, followed by sex

[Anastasiaadamov · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a list of books I wanted to read this month but this book series has me hooked out of my plans!
I'm really enjoying the concept of this historical romance trope!

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Or None! Bad Boys🐺🍆⛲ Get What They Deserve!

Desperate for money to pay his late father's creditors and revive his ruined shipping company, Edward🐺🍆⛲ joins the elite ranks of London's Male Courtesans!
Imagine getting paid for doing what comes naturally to a man, and also becoming a kept man!

Edwards🐺🍆⛲ first gig starts as a failure, when his client, Clare💃💋, a confirmed bluestocking, receives a month of his "services " as a 🎂birthday gift from her doting aunt, Helene👵. Clare is so surprised at finding Edward🐺🍆⛲ in her bed, she can't deal with it.
Clare's aunt asks him to try again the next day. Edward🐺🍆⛲ is probably going to have to woo💕 her and start at the beginning......

ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
This book was $2.99 on Amazon at the time of this review.
Opinions Expressed here are entirely my own.

Great ADULT Regency Romance about two young people who have resigned themselves to never finding love💔 or having a family. Good character development drives the longing and sweet love story between Clare💃💋 and Edward🐺🍆⛲. This is a quick, interesting, read that will keep you riveted to your kindle all the way through!

[Katy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a fun short read and this fits the bill! I won't spoil the story, but saying that main character Edward is one of the gentleman courtesans isn't really a spoiler. His first assignment is Clare, a bluestocking, and in short (novella, not novel) order, another gentleman courtesan bites the dust. (again, not really a spoiler--this seems to be the theme of the series, based on this and Portrait of a Lady). I would read this one before Portrait of a Lady. I got them in the opposite order, and now I think I might have to go back and reread Hugh's story....not a hardship!

Benedict had better increase his recruiting efforts if he doesn't want to run out of courtesans. The story is fun, the characters are fun, and the sex is steamy. If you're looking for clean, this isn't it, but if you want a short escape, this is perfect--cheaper than a movie, takes about the same time to read, and honestly, better than any movie I've seen in a while.

I'm really looking forward to Benedict's story--unfortunately, I'm sure he'll be last....

[Zena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Concept!
This is a fast and easy read. The story is interesting and if one can keep in mind that this is a fiction story, then I guess it is possible to imagine that there was a group of male courtesans in those days. Who knows, perhaps there was!
I was rather amused by the aunt procuring a male courtesan for her niece as a birthday present. And also that the Bluestocking could so easily be persuaded to change her ideas and to allow herself to be thoroughly bedded by him.
Of course there are some hot scenes but they are to be expected, after all, Edward is a Courtesan!
But both Clare and Edward have their reasons for starting (and continuing) this affair and this and the rest of the book make good reading.
I enjoyed this story, liked the characters, had a few good laughs, felt dismay a couple of times and empathized at the angst of a misunderstanding between the two main characters.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the story of Edward and Clare. In dire need of money, Edward hires on as a courtesan and is hired by Clare’s aunt for one month ad her birthday present. Edward proceeds to fall in love with his Clare snd after a misunderstanding there is a HEA. I enjoyed the book, it was a great read and I would highly recommend it.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, that was hot! A sexy short story. Enjoyable read. 4☆

[Jamie Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read the first book of the Gentleman Courtesans series, and I remember the hero in this book being mentioned in that one rather disgustedly by the ringleader of the courtesans because he had fallen in love with his first keeper and left the group. So I was very interested in reading his story.

This book is as much of a delight as the first book of the series. While it felt like there was a little bit of an information dump at the start of both characters’ first viewpoint chapters, the author wrote them so well that I didn't mind (for once!). I actually barked out a laugh or two when Benedict was assessing Edward, the hero, to see if he was up to snuff to be a gentleman courtesan. And, my goodness, what her aunt did to the heroine! Setting her up with a naked man in her bed for her birthday. That scene was so amusing. Edward definitely had to overcome Clare’s resistance, and he did so in the most perfectly charming and appropriate way for a woman who is decidedly a bluestocking. The author did a great job incorporating the heroine's love of botany and geology (as well as other sciences) into the book. As I've come to expect from Ms. Vale's books, the steam factor is off the charts, and she always makes the sensual scenes so contextual to the characters, especially the first time the lovers consummate their relationship. Brilliantly done in this book, as in the others I've read by Ms. Vale. If you've read any of her other books, you will most likely enjoy this one as well. If you haven't read her other books, you might find this a very delightful, funny, and charming introduction to her steamy, delectable style.

I received a free copy of this book, but that didn't affect my review.

Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com

[Angie Okita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this story. I read the first book, Portrait of a Lady. Within that story there was reference to a Edward and how he was not well liked by the “owner” of the male courtesan business, because Edward got himself married to his keeper. It put a seed in my little brain of wondered what happened. Then I was pleasantly surprised to see this book, Edward’s story.

It was as good of a book as Portrait of a Lady. Both Edward and his keeper, Clare, were entertaining and it was fun to read their story. Unlike Portrait of a Lady, this was more inline with what I expect from a Victoria Vale book. Don’t get me wrong the other book was just as good, see my review on that book to understand what I mean.

I loved how Edward just got that Clare was different (not like other society women) and just liked her for her. Clare is a very dominant and smart female, but Ms. Vale did not have Edward overpower her and at the same time did not make him look dumb. She let the characters be their characters without it seeming like something was missing.

I cannot say enough about this series, except I now need the next story. Ms. Vale you need to put the next book out already. Also, maybe you can do a story on Aunt Helene.

I received a copy of this book from the author to give an honest review and that is what I have done.

[TLynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tempting the Bluestocking is the prequel novella to The Gentleman Courtesans. I read the first book (Portrait of a Lady) before this book and both can be read as stand-alone. The idea of gentleman courtesans is so unique and makes this series so original. The characters were so sweet and meant to be together. Edward’s father died and left him with a ruined shipping business and lots of debt. Edward is trying to find a way to rebuild the business and provide for his younger sister and brother. He runs into a friend who directed him to the Gentleman Courtesan business. Edward decides to become a GC until the business is stable and profitable again. Clare is happy being single and able to pursue her interest in science. Helene, Clare’s aunt, signs a contract for Edward to be Clare’s birthday gift for a month. The book was fast paced and being a novella, it was short. I do wish the book was longer because I would have enjoyed reading more in depth about the characters. The characters were developed well but they were such a sweet couple I would have loved to know more. The author was able to capture my attention at the beginning of the book and hold it until the end. I love the two books in the series so far and can’t wait to read the stories of the other Gentleman Courtesans.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

After his father's lack of business acumen leaves a still-grieving Edward Norton with a mountain of debt, a failing shipping company, and two younger siblings to support, he is desperate. When his friend introduces him to a secret group of gentlemen courtesans, Edward agrees to join them, knowing it's his only viable option now and is hired as a birthday present for a lively bluestocking. He must keep her happy for just one month, then he'll have enough to start making his company viable again.

Heiress Clare Dunnaby has had one lackluster experience with a man and doesn't see what all the fuss is about. She's content with her study of geology and botany. But her Aunt Helene knows better and so she arranges for the most extravagant of birthday presents she's yet to give Clare.

The connection between Clare and Edward is immediate and soon becomes more than either expected and they both find that thirty days will never be sufficient for them, but pride could be enough to keep them apart for good when their initial connection was born of a business contract.

This was a great novella. It had plenty of steam and the characters were enjoyable and charming. A great introduction for this series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edward is desperate for money and ends up becoming a gentleman courtesan, a birthday present for Clare who has sworn of men and sex. Clare is a bluestocking and more interested in geology than marriage. What will happen when she finds Edward naked in her bed. Fast-paced and entertaining historical read. I really liked the characters and the story. Looking forward to more in the series.

[Sonia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this beautiful, hot romance from Victoria Vale❤️
Mr. Edward Norton deceased and irresponsible father left him and his younger siblings in financial ruin. He needs money to make repairs on the Shipping Company.
His good friend refers him to Lord Benedict, founder of the Gentleman’s Courtesan!🔥
Beautiful Miss. Clare loves botany and geology than a social life. Her Aunt Helene gives her Mr. Edward for her birthday! You have to read the book to find out what happened! She is a feisty, strong willed and independent heiress.
This was a captivating storyline and I loved the narrative.
Refreshing, steamy romance with a nice flow to the story. I need to say that I really love Aunt Helene.
CeCe and Edward enjoy knowing each other in more ways 😍🔥
I have read all of Victoria Vale’s books and she never disappoints us.
I recommend reading all her books, but how Unique is a Gentleman’s Courtesan Club, only Ms. Vale can do it ❤️

[Rhonda Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has to be the most original, intriguing series I've read in a long time. The premise of a courtesan is certainly nothing new. What IS new, is the fact the courtesans are men. Yes, you read that right, MEN. Even in today's modern society such a thing would still be whispered about and certainly an eyebrow raised here and there, but back in the day, can you imagine? The storyline of Edward and Clare is absolutely brilliant. The honesty and forthrightness of the characters are just absolutely so relatable it almost left me giddy with it. Since this is the prequel to the series, it's a must read. And then I'm going to recommend to stay tuned because this series seems to have a life of it's own. I received a copy of this book from Booksprout and am giving my honest, voluntary review.

[Gigi’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually read the first book in this series prior but still enjoyed this prequel. If you like the premise of male courtesans and bluestockings you will love this! Edward becomes a courtesan because his father has died and left him a money pit. So he needs money to help get the business back up and running again. He has family to take care of and cannot even think about a wife without having money to support her. Clare or Cece is a bluestocking who is intellectual, you know loves museums and all that, and collects watches. Her Aunt gets her a surprise bday gift. A courtesan?? But they soon find that they are quite perfect for each other and fall in love. It is spicy but yet sweetly romantic.

[Jenniekenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a member of the ARC team and reading/reviewing “Portrait of a Lady” I was lucky enough to get a prequel Tempting the Bluestocking and I am so so very lucky! You will LOVE LOVE LOVE this series of male courtesans. It is new, refreshing, funny, HOT HOT HOT with amazing characters and great storylines. Edward’s father has died and left the family business in ruins. Hugh (from Portrait of A Lady) suggests Edward become a courtesan to make fast/good money. Clare (CeCe)’s a very intellectual, intelligent young woman who lives with her Aunt Helene. OMG is the first meeting between Clare and Edward hysterical....Aunt Helene is the best! This story really is a non-stop amazing read.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clare and Edward were such engaging characters. Edward was desperately trying to solve his family’s problems, due to his father’s lack of business sense. A family he cares for deeply. Clare, lives with her unconventional Aunt Helene and has numerous hobbies. She takes no interest in balls and soirées. When Clare and Edward get over their initial meeting, they enjoy each other’s company. Edward is able to adjust to Clare’s way of thinking. All does not run smoothly. I enjoyed hearing about Hugh from the first book. This was a delightful read. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sophia-Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tempting The Bluestocking by Victoria Vale

As I read the last words, I couldn’t help but think, “And she did it yet again!” And Victoria Vale really hit a note inside me again! Clare was a walking contradiction to other of Mistress Vale’s leading ladies so far. Edward was an honourable if damn unlucky man with his sinking inheritance.
Clare truly hit a note with me, her innermost dreams of never ending happiness, seems extremely well known and probably made her the most relatable leading lady, so far for myself.

Loved the story! Yet another masterpiece by our mischievous mistress Vale! Congratulations on yet another wonderful book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five stars out of five.

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

He’s desperate l, she’s an heiress.

Edward Norton is a mere gentleman who just inherited a mountain of debt, a sinking shipping business and has two younger siblings to care for.

He agree to be a kept man.

Clare “CeCe” is 21 and in her birthday, her aunt Helene gifts her a month of Edwatd’s services.

At first she thinks it’s a joke, but she’s brilliant, odd, scientifically inclined and fibally caves.

Will Edward be an idiot as the end of their month draws near? The answer is yes, ladies.

I really enjoyed this installment in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This deliciously steamy book was all about pride, forgiveness, familial duty, assumptions, curiosity, desperation, hope and love. The characters were brilliant, and I especially loved the interactions between Clare and Aunt Helene, two wonderfully independent and capable women who aren’t afraid to embrace life. Edward was also a sympathetic character with enough backbone to do what needs to be done to save his and his family’s future. The Gentlemen Courtesans is an enticing, addictive series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

[ZJT · Rating 5 out of 5]

So unique! Really starting to love this series.

A charming story filled with humour. Aunt Helene is quite the character, having a very unusual relationship with Clare, an unusual woman herself. Receiving the one of a kind Birthday gift, creates an amusing storyline rift with scientific experiments and witty repartee. I love how Edward genuinely admires Clare for herself without imposing any societal conventions upon her, allowing her to be her. Very good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sherry Westendorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a birthday present for her. She is deeply into her work because of one rotten sexual encounter. He is desperate to get his shipping business on its feet again. So he agrees to be hers for a month. But feelings get involved and things get complicated. What happens in a month when it comes time to part ways. He is her lover for a month. Love the idea of it. It is exciting, hot and steamy, very emotional and so much more. I received a review copy from booksprout and voluntarily review it.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gentleman courtesan how delectable!
I love Ms. Vale’s pieces they are always captivating so well-written with engaging characters they are books you do not want to end. This one is a great idea gentlemen courtesans I cannot think of a better birthday present, can you? Reading about Edward and Clare was just fun no as dark as some of Ms. Vale’s books this one is a book that would go great in anyone collection. I highly recommend it. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Kia B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I previously read Portrait of a Lady, drawn in by the unique plot of a male courtesan. I was not disappointed by Portrait, so I eagerly devoured Tempting the Bluestocking...again, I was not disappointed. I read Tempting in a few hours and eagerly await future installments to this idea of the Male Courtesan Club. Each of our H/h is interesting and intelligent in their own, never leaving me to roll my eyes at the antics but to read on in anticipation and usually laughter of their adventures.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.