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Second Chance #3
His Brother's Viscount
As a baron's youngest son, Hector Somerville has no real prospects. He will not inherit, and he's overshadowed by two perfect brothers. While searching for ways to improve his situation, Hector finds respite in an invitation to a country estate-and has a second chance at rekindling his illicit affair with Viscount Wentworth, captain of HBMS Dragon. The upcoming fortnight could be everything Hector dreamed of since their disastrous parting.
Wentworth has forsaken love, and yet, memories of guilt and heartache resurface. He loved a boyhood friend once, Hector's older brother William, until the man left him, trampling his heart in the process. Years later, he wonders if he ever fell out of love. Is his heart bound by William, or can he create a life with Hector?
Wentworth has forsaken love, and yet, memories of guilt and heartache resurface. He loved a boyhood friend once, Hector's older brother William, until the man left him, trampling his heart in the process. Years later, he wonders if he ever fell out of love. Is his heart bound by William, or can he create a life with Hector?
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2021
4 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Lake
25 books134 followersStephanie Lake is the pen name for a husband/wife team who enjoy writing historical M/M (gay) romance with happy endings and steamy middles. We’d love to hear from you, so check out our website for contact info at: https://sites.google.com/site/stephan...
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 12, 2021
This M/M regency begins with a very sexually charged fortnight between Wentworth and Hector, the youngest brother of William, Wentworth's boyhood friend and first lover. Hector is a sweet-natured young man, totally enamored with Wentworth, while Wentworth realizes:
From what I've gathered, there may have been a kidnapping and rescue, some adventures at sea, lost and found loves, huge family conflicts .... but I'm not entirely sure and most of these events are lightly mentioned in passing.
But beyond this, the plot has a very confusing chronology as it goes back and forth between time periods, between numerous points of view (it seems we get POV from just about every character) as well as dialogue where it isn't always apparent whom is speaking, and on top of this Wentworth is apparently suffering from memory loss due to traumatic events in the past.
However, events that occur completely within the confines of this book are still not crystal clear, such as the nature of the relationship between Hector and Jonathan, who is very quickly designated our villain without more than a line or two of character development. At times I found myself reading and re-reading passages to try to make sense of what had just happened.
Finally, some language and phrases don't fit into the time period, as well as attitudes unlikely to be the mindset of someone living in the Regency period. For example, William readily shares that his wife Mary is aware of his past relationship with Wentworth and it doesn't bother her at all. There is talk of "committed relationships" and fostering of children that seems unlikely for the time period.
Overall, this book just did not work for me for many reasons outlined above. I cannot recommend it and give 2.5 stars to "His Brother's Viscount."
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
When they were first together, he liked the fact that Hector looked like William. Loved the fact that Hector smelled like William. Adored the fact that Hector tasted like William.The first third of this book is full of very steamy interactions between the two men and while there is little in the way of character development, Wentworth and Hector have sexual compatability in spades. However, I was not aware until this point in the book that "His Brother's Viscount" is part of a larger series (there is nothing that indicates this in the description or cover,a although I now see that Goodreads shows that the book is the third in a series) and what follows is fairly incomprehensible because numerous past events are never fully explained.
From what I've gathered, there may have been a kidnapping and rescue, some adventures at sea, lost and found loves, huge family conflicts .... but I'm not entirely sure and most of these events are lightly mentioned in passing.
But beyond this, the plot has a very confusing chronology as it goes back and forth between time periods, between numerous points of view (it seems we get POV from just about every character) as well as dialogue where it isn't always apparent whom is speaking, and on top of this Wentworth is apparently suffering from memory loss due to traumatic events in the past.
However, events that occur completely within the confines of this book are still not crystal clear, such as the nature of the relationship between Hector and Jonathan, who is very quickly designated our villain without more than a line or two of character development. At times I found myself reading and re-reading passages to try to make sense of what had just happened.
Finally, some language and phrases don't fit into the time period, as well as attitudes unlikely to be the mindset of someone living in the Regency period. For example, William readily shares that his wife Mary is aware of his past relationship with Wentworth and it doesn't bother her at all. There is talk of "committed relationships" and fostering of children that seems unlikely for the time period.
Overall, this book just did not work for me for many reasons outlined above. I cannot recommend it and give 2.5 stars to "His Brother's Viscount."
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
February 10, 2021
3.5 Stars
Hector Sommerville is the third son of an entailed estate in England. He’s no hope of inheriting, and he has little interest in being a burden. Hector has known his whole life that he has unnatural tastes, loving men, and one in particular: Viscount Captain Tyler Wentworth, who is nearly ten years his senior. Tyler grew up on the neighboring estate to the Somervilles and he was the best friend to William, Hector’s next-eldest brother. Tyler seemed a dashing young man all Hector’s life, and a savior of sorts from the abusive hands of Hector’s drunkard father.
Hector has grown up to be fully enamored of the celebrated Captain and thrives on his visits. He does not know that William and Tyler shared their first love with one another. Nor does Hector know that Tyler’s jealousy over William choosing to marry a woman caused Tyler to act in an unconscionable manner, which severed their once close bonds of friendship. Hector planned to lose his virginity to Tyler, and is happily doing so before family drama sets in.
His Brother’s Viscount is a Regency romance loosely connected to His Second Chance by means of some character connections, but fully enjoyable on its own. Through flashback, the whole and sordid stories of their pasts are unraveled. From the beginning, we know that Hector has made it his mission to spend a fortnight with Tyler to win his affection once and for all, several years after his first time with Tyler, still unknowing all the history between William and Tyler.
Hector is sweet and giving and Tyler is old and jaded. Afraid to upset William again, and unsure if his mad affection growing for Hector is simply a reflection of the love he once held for William, Tyler spurns Hector’s plans for a life together. Add to this, William fears that Tyler’s sodomite predilections are ruining his brother’s chances. And, angst. There’s lots of angst. Tyler hides his misery in drink, and he does ruin Hector, in a way, by breaking his poor tender heart. For a time.
As a Regency, this one has a far less decorum and hiding for the main characters than I have seen before. It was different, and didn’t feel authentic. Admitting to what amounts to criminal sexual behavior seems to happen with little care, being a rather open secret even between brothers and husband/wife. There are many changes in POV, as well as time, with flashbacks taking us back years in Tyler’s history that were at times confusing and certainly halted the growing action in favor of explaining. I’m not a huge fan of flashback, and it became problematic for me as a reader. I did eventually understand that Tyler’s struggles with his memories and himself, as well as his love for Hector, were difficult to engage with and to acknowledge, but the level of angst was almost melodramatic. The late plot of a spurned lover taking Hector in his confidence added to the “too much” crisis I was having as a reader. I adored Hector—and I liked Tyler eventually, but I think the plot meandered a bit for me to really have loved it. I was glad that Tyler and William reconciled their friendship, and that Tyler’s growth as a character eventually allowed him to see his true worth and save Hector from both bitter loneliness and a bizarre and dangerous revenge plot.
Expect some dashed hopes and uncomfortable sexytimes followed by separation, emotional abuse, and lots of soul searching before Tyler finally gets to the core of his feelings. He has some intense groveling to do, and he will—if Hector lives long enough to hear him out. In the end, it was a happy resolution, and Hector and Tyler find a way to make a loving life together.
Hector Sommerville is the third son of an entailed estate in England. He’s no hope of inheriting, and he has little interest in being a burden. Hector has known his whole life that he has unnatural tastes, loving men, and one in particular: Viscount Captain Tyler Wentworth, who is nearly ten years his senior. Tyler grew up on the neighboring estate to the Somervilles and he was the best friend to William, Hector’s next-eldest brother. Tyler seemed a dashing young man all Hector’s life, and a savior of sorts from the abusive hands of Hector’s drunkard father.
Hector has grown up to be fully enamored of the celebrated Captain and thrives on his visits. He does not know that William and Tyler shared their first love with one another. Nor does Hector know that Tyler’s jealousy over William choosing to marry a woman caused Tyler to act in an unconscionable manner, which severed their once close bonds of friendship. Hector planned to lose his virginity to Tyler, and is happily doing so before family drama sets in.
His Brother’s Viscount is a Regency romance loosely connected to His Second Chance by means of some character connections, but fully enjoyable on its own. Through flashback, the whole and sordid stories of their pasts are unraveled. From the beginning, we know that Hector has made it his mission to spend a fortnight with Tyler to win his affection once and for all, several years after his first time with Tyler, still unknowing all the history between William and Tyler.
Hector is sweet and giving and Tyler is old and jaded. Afraid to upset William again, and unsure if his mad affection growing for Hector is simply a reflection of the love he once held for William, Tyler spurns Hector’s plans for a life together. Add to this, William fears that Tyler’s sodomite predilections are ruining his brother’s chances. And, angst. There’s lots of angst. Tyler hides his misery in drink, and he does ruin Hector, in a way, by breaking his poor tender heart. For a time.
As a Regency, this one has a far less decorum and hiding for the main characters than I have seen before. It was different, and didn’t feel authentic. Admitting to what amounts to criminal sexual behavior seems to happen with little care, being a rather open secret even between brothers and husband/wife. There are many changes in POV, as well as time, with flashbacks taking us back years in Tyler’s history that were at times confusing and certainly halted the growing action in favor of explaining. I’m not a huge fan of flashback, and it became problematic for me as a reader. I did eventually understand that Tyler’s struggles with his memories and himself, as well as his love for Hector, were difficult to engage with and to acknowledge, but the level of angst was almost melodramatic. The late plot of a spurned lover taking Hector in his confidence added to the “too much” crisis I was having as a reader. I adored Hector—and I liked Tyler eventually, but I think the plot meandered a bit for me to really have loved it. I was glad that Tyler and William reconciled their friendship, and that Tyler’s growth as a character eventually allowed him to see his true worth and save Hector from both bitter loneliness and a bizarre and dangerous revenge plot.
Expect some dashed hopes and uncomfortable sexytimes followed by separation, emotional abuse, and lots of soul searching before Tyler finally gets to the core of his feelings. He has some intense groveling to do, and he will—if Hector lives long enough to hear him out. In the end, it was a happy resolution, and Hector and Tyler find a way to make a loving life together.
August 7, 2021
From a young age Tyler Wentworth, William and Hector Somerville, have been friends. During abusive times, Tyler had frequently protected William and Hector, from their father. Hector being the youngest had declared his special feelings for the older Tyler.
As time went on both Tyler and William joined the military. Tyler continued in the Navy and William went on to be a doctor and eventually married.
As Hector got older he knew what he wanted but William continued to harass him. As much as William carried on he could not prevent Hector from caring for Tyler.
As William and Tyler carried on a battle of manipulation and harassment, they overlooked two most important things. That what was really going on did not go unnoticed by Mary, William’s wife and Hector. Even though Hector was disgusted with both, William and Tyler. He put his heart on the line with Tyler. When Tyler decides to face Hector with the truth, it’s too late and Hector walks away.
Nothing came easy for Hector with his status of being a younger brother. What did become clear to Hector was the need to make decisions and make something out of himself, without William and Tyler. As much as he hurt to isolate himself from them and family, Hector was smart and succeeded in his own life.
Eventually William and Tyler come to a truce, but they wasted precious time. Hector has someone in his life now and its caused a very dangerous dilemma.
Stephanie Lake does very well in presenting the feeling of the historic 17th century England, with language and settings of the time. Lake also brings about the fears of homosexuality in the time period. There’s an element of danger and suspense on land and sea, with a variety of emotions: selfishness, manipulation, secrets, lies and humiliation. There’s also past and present moments, that may be somewhat confusing but that’s due to memory loss and a traumatic experience that Tyler Wentworth deals with. The novel is a very close look at selfishness, as both William and Tyler continued to destroy the one person that was important in their lives.
I think because of Tylers memory loss, the truce between him and William seemed a little too quick, awkward and didn’t seem sincere. It really showed how much Tyler struggled with his issue.
Hector was sweet but really showed his strength, intelligence and proved himself. He took a stand and protected himself. Even though there’s many steamy moments between Tyler and Hector, the trauma almost emits a bad impression of Tyler at times.
Mary, Williams wife, was also an interesting character. As a women of the 17th century, she seemed to be modern thinking, when it came to the issue between the three men and spoke her mind.
“His Brothers Viscount” was a very entertaining read and Hector had me curious about his friends, Randall Blair, Seventh Viscount of Trorring and Lieutenant David Wedgewood. Their story is “His Second Chance” the first book of the “Second Chance” series and reflects the influence they had on Hector.
The “Author’s Note” in “His Brothers Viscount” is important because Lake shares how Wentworth’s memory loss and trauma came to be an important part of the novel.
As time went on both Tyler and William joined the military. Tyler continued in the Navy and William went on to be a doctor and eventually married.
As Hector got older he knew what he wanted but William continued to harass him. As much as William carried on he could not prevent Hector from caring for Tyler.
As William and Tyler carried on a battle of manipulation and harassment, they overlooked two most important things. That what was really going on did not go unnoticed by Mary, William’s wife and Hector. Even though Hector was disgusted with both, William and Tyler. He put his heart on the line with Tyler. When Tyler decides to face Hector with the truth, it’s too late and Hector walks away.
Nothing came easy for Hector with his status of being a younger brother. What did become clear to Hector was the need to make decisions and make something out of himself, without William and Tyler. As much as he hurt to isolate himself from them and family, Hector was smart and succeeded in his own life.
Eventually William and Tyler come to a truce, but they wasted precious time. Hector has someone in his life now and its caused a very dangerous dilemma.
Stephanie Lake does very well in presenting the feeling of the historic 17th century England, with language and settings of the time. Lake also brings about the fears of homosexuality in the time period. There’s an element of danger and suspense on land and sea, with a variety of emotions: selfishness, manipulation, secrets, lies and humiliation. There’s also past and present moments, that may be somewhat confusing but that’s due to memory loss and a traumatic experience that Tyler Wentworth deals with. The novel is a very close look at selfishness, as both William and Tyler continued to destroy the one person that was important in their lives.
I think because of Tylers memory loss, the truce between him and William seemed a little too quick, awkward and didn’t seem sincere. It really showed how much Tyler struggled with his issue.
Hector was sweet but really showed his strength, intelligence and proved himself. He took a stand and protected himself. Even though there’s many steamy moments between Tyler and Hector, the trauma almost emits a bad impression of Tyler at times.
Mary, Williams wife, was also an interesting character. As a women of the 17th century, she seemed to be modern thinking, when it came to the issue between the three men and spoke her mind.
“His Brothers Viscount” was a very entertaining read and Hector had me curious about his friends, Randall Blair, Seventh Viscount of Trorring and Lieutenant David Wedgewood. Their story is “His Second Chance” the first book of the “Second Chance” series and reflects the influence they had on Hector.
The “Author’s Note” in “His Brothers Viscount” is important because Lake shares how Wentworth’s memory loss and trauma came to be an important part of the novel.
August 15, 2021
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Wentworth is back but is he ready to face the truth of what is life is about to mean if he does what is planned.
When love is lost turn to the younger brother is right? Wrong! Hector has always loved Wentworth, but now is the time that he will know longer see a his brothers little brother but a man. It's sad the way Wentworth doesn't really see what he is doing to those around him until a traitorous fiend is disturbing everything with evil intentions. Will Wentworht be in time are loss what he is just come realize was hope. Hector has always been blind but when the truth smacks you in the face you can't stay blind, turning from every one he meets a man that he thinks could be a friend but only will that be enough. Oh my this was one of those books I couldn't put down, even when I was so mad at Wentworth and William.
When love is lost turn to the younger brother is right? Wrong! Hector has always loved Wentworth, but now is the time that he will know longer see a his brothers little brother but a man. It's sad the way Wentworth doesn't really see what he is doing to those around him until a traitorous fiend is disturbing everything with evil intentions. Will Wentworht be in time are loss what he is just come realize was hope. Hector has always been blind but when the truth smacks you in the face you can't stay blind, turning from every one he meets a man that he thinks could be a friend but only will that be enough. Oh my this was one of those books I couldn't put down, even when I was so mad at Wentworth and William.
July 16, 2021
**I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
This book is a solid 3.5 (so I rounded up).
“My Brother’s Viscount” follows the story of Wentworth (the Viscount), William (the brother) and Hector (*my*). Wentworth and William were previously lovers, but now William is happily married (with a newly Christened baby!) and Wentworth has begun an affair with William’s younger brother, Hector… that’s the start. You enter the story at the point in time in which they are ten (roughly) years from the end of W&W being involved and two years since W&H last broke up, and a month (?) since the two have reconnected. Yes, it is as confusing as it sounds. I felt like I had missed some key detail or maybe the first half of the book (or forgotten something significant in a sequel, which I don’t think I did). This is all addressed through flashbacks and the result is a narrative that draws you further in so you can uncover the who, what and why.
The characters are pretty solid, and Hector practically leaps off the page as a bright poppy of a young man. He provides the majority of the levity in the book and is the center piece and soul of the book. Wentworth is mired in self-doubt, guilt and an enduring commitment to being an emotionally stunted doofus. He provides the angst and exposition. Most of the book is from their POVs (with one or two scenes thrown in from other perspectives).
Overall, I enjoyed the “My Brother’s Viscount,” the writers know their craft and are able to weave a compelling historical romance. It is worth a read if you enjoy m/m romance with some angst, a dash of humor and a unique story. Perhaps the best thing about the book is due to its structure is that it doesn’t follow the typical (and sometimes clichéd) romance story notes. Some of this does lead to narrative issues, but the story is unique to others and some of the places it goes can be surprising.
The story is not in the “present” for a good portion, and until about 40% so much of the story is looking back to recall what had happened in the past. This makes a lot of the narrative not feel very current (and a little slow at times), with a lot of Wentworth’s POV dedicated to him extolling the memories of what occurred and comparing Hector to William. Wentworth is obviously wracked with guilt, especially (at first) since Hector does not know his brother and Wentworth were once involved. Even though the relationship, when recounted, doesn’t seem like much more than a boyhood dalliance.
Things get shaken up for the second half of the book, and to avoid spoilers, I will only go as far to say that everyone pretty much gets what they deserve. I do wish the end had been expanded a bit as the first half tended to drag. But, it was a solid story with a satisfying ending.
I recommend this story to anyone who is a fan of the pervious stories in this series and anyone who is looking for something with a little angst and second (and third) chance romances.
This book is a solid 3.5 (so I rounded up).
“My Brother’s Viscount” follows the story of Wentworth (the Viscount), William (the brother) and Hector (*my*). Wentworth and William were previously lovers, but now William is happily married (with a newly Christened baby!) and Wentworth has begun an affair with William’s younger brother, Hector… that’s the start. You enter the story at the point in time in which they are ten (roughly) years from the end of W&W being involved and two years since W&H last broke up, and a month (?) since the two have reconnected. Yes, it is as confusing as it sounds. I felt like I had missed some key detail or maybe the first half of the book (or forgotten something significant in a sequel, which I don’t think I did). This is all addressed through flashbacks and the result is a narrative that draws you further in so you can uncover the who, what and why.
The characters are pretty solid, and Hector practically leaps off the page as a bright poppy of a young man. He provides the majority of the levity in the book and is the center piece and soul of the book. Wentworth is mired in self-doubt, guilt and an enduring commitment to being an emotionally stunted doofus. He provides the angst and exposition. Most of the book is from their POVs (with one or two scenes thrown in from other perspectives).
Overall, I enjoyed the “My Brother’s Viscount,” the writers know their craft and are able to weave a compelling historical romance. It is worth a read if you enjoy m/m romance with some angst, a dash of humor and a unique story. Perhaps the best thing about the book is due to its structure is that it doesn’t follow the typical (and sometimes clichéd) romance story notes. Some of this does lead to narrative issues, but the story is unique to others and some of the places it goes can be surprising.
The story is not in the “present” for a good portion, and until about 40% so much of the story is looking back to recall what had happened in the past. This makes a lot of the narrative not feel very current (and a little slow at times), with a lot of Wentworth’s POV dedicated to him extolling the memories of what occurred and comparing Hector to William. Wentworth is obviously wracked with guilt, especially (at first) since Hector does not know his brother and Wentworth were once involved. Even though the relationship, when recounted, doesn’t seem like much more than a boyhood dalliance.
Things get shaken up for the second half of the book, and to avoid spoilers, I will only go as far to say that everyone pretty much gets what they deserve. I do wish the end had been expanded a bit as the first half tended to drag. But, it was a solid story with a satisfying ending.
I recommend this story to anyone who is a fan of the pervious stories in this series and anyone who is looking for something with a little angst and second (and third) chance romances.
December 11, 2021
I enjoyed this m/m historical romance with all of the characters. The two main were Hector Somerville and Viscount Wentworth.
Hector Somerville is the third son of a Baron with no real prospect. With two older brothers he will not inherit. He also has had a hard life because of his father. He also discovered that he like men than women.
Viscount Wentworth has gave up on love because his childhood friend broke his heart at a young age. Ever since then he can not trust to love another male. But there is something about Hector that he like.
This was enjoyable story to read. I like that both men could come to an understanding of their feelings. This story had quite a bit of different types of emotion throughout it.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
Hector Somerville is the third son of a Baron with no real prospect. With two older brothers he will not inherit. He also has had a hard life because of his father. He also discovered that he like men than women.
Viscount Wentworth has gave up on love because his childhood friend broke his heart at a young age. Ever since then he can not trust to love another male. But there is something about Hector that he like.
This was enjoyable story to read. I like that both men could come to an understanding of their feelings. This story had quite a bit of different types of emotion throughout it.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
February 12, 2021
His Brother’s Viscount by Stephanie Lake is a m/m Regency romance. Hector Sommerville, a third son and unlikely to inherit, has been smitten with his brother’s friend, Viscount Captain Tyler Wentworth, since he he realized he preferred the company of men. Wentworth is still in love with William, Hector’s brother, and is still harboring some jealousy over William marrying a woman. Wentworth isn’t sure if what he’s feeling for Hector isn’t just his way of reliving his time with William.
The story plot is intriguing, but the execution is confusing. With flashbacks, we learn the relationship history of the different gentlemen, but I almost felt the need to take notes to make sure I didn’t miss anything. The characters are standard: Hector is the smitten ingenue, Wentworth, the jaded older man, and William, the protective older brother. But that’s about it. They’re fine, but nothing about them stands out. In just about every book, I have a favorite character, but I couldn’t pick one out of these gents. The seemed so meh. Fine for the story, but not thrilling, which was disappointing.
Overall, I was entertained, but I don’t know if I’m going to revisit this book, or if I’m interested enough in reading else from this author. I thought the book was fine, but not thrilling.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
3.5 of 5 stars.
The story plot is intriguing, but the execution is confusing. With flashbacks, we learn the relationship history of the different gentlemen, but I almost felt the need to take notes to make sure I didn’t miss anything. The characters are standard: Hector is the smitten ingenue, Wentworth, the jaded older man, and William, the protective older brother. But that’s about it. They’re fine, but nothing about them stands out. In just about every book, I have a favorite character, but I couldn’t pick one out of these gents. The seemed so meh. Fine for the story, but not thrilling, which was disappointing.
Overall, I was entertained, but I don’t know if I’m going to revisit this book, or if I’m interested enough in reading else from this author. I thought the book was fine, but not thrilling.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
3.5 of 5 stars.
February 3, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
His Brother’s Viscount is a Regency romance loosely connected to His Second Chance by means of some character connections, but fully enjoyable on its own. Through flashback, the whole and sordid stories of their pasts are unraveled. From the beginning, we know that Hector has made it his mission to spend a fortnight with Tyler to win his affection once and for all, several years after his first time with Tyler, still unknowing all the history between William and Tyler.
Hector is sweet and giving and Tyler is old and jaded. Afraid to upset William again, and unsure if his mad affection growing for Hector is simply a reflection of the love he once held for William, Tyler spurns Hector’s plans for a life together. Add to this, William fears that Tyler’s sodomite predilections are ruining his brother’s chances. And, angst. There’s lots of angst. Tyler hides his misery in drink, and he does ruin Hector, in a way, by breaking his poor tender heart. For a time.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
His Brother’s Viscount is a Regency romance loosely connected to His Second Chance by means of some character connections, but fully enjoyable on its own. Through flashback, the whole and sordid stories of their pasts are unraveled. From the beginning, we know that Hector has made it his mission to spend a fortnight with Tyler to win his affection once and for all, several years after his first time with Tyler, still unknowing all the history between William and Tyler.
Hector is sweet and giving and Tyler is old and jaded. Afraid to upset William again, and unsure if his mad affection growing for Hector is simply a reflection of the love he once held for William, Tyler spurns Hector’s plans for a life together. Add to this, William fears that Tyler’s sodomite predilections are ruining his brother’s chances. And, angst. There’s lots of angst. Tyler hides his misery in drink, and he does ruin Hector, in a way, by breaking his poor tender heart. For a time.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
May 8, 2021
So far, this has been our most fun book to write! I love an angsty story (Wentworth), interspersed with humor (Hector).
January 15, 2021
I received a free advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
So, Bridgerton got me hooked on regency romance novels, a genre I never expected to take interest in, but it’s 2021, the world is still in shambles, and here we are.
So when I saw this title pop up on NetGalley, I was like... gay regency romance? Hell yeah, let’s do it.
Having only read like 8 regency romances to date (all this year, most by the same author), I feel at least somewhat qualified to say this book is typical of the genre. Pros: I instantly liked all the characters involved and was rooting for the main couple from the first pages. It contained pretty much everything one comes to a regency expecting to get. Intimate scenes were well-written. There was acknowledgement of the struggles two gay men would face as members of society in regency-era England, but it wasn’t an overarching or overbearing part of the book. Unrealistic? Perhaps, but in my opinion, that’s what this genre is for.
Cons: the plot got hella confusing at points. There were an almost repetitive number of flashbacks, which I learned from the author’s note was an intentional choice in an attempt to portray a character dealing with traumatic memory loss. The problem was, this led me to dizzy myself trying to fit together various random events to understand what happened in the past that was so evidently traumatic. By the end of the book, having been given all the pieces of the puzzle, I feel like what was constructed was a piece of abstract art. It all kind of fit sensibly together if you tilt your head and squint. I’m still not sure I fully understand what supposedly happened, but I got enough gist for the rest of the story to come together just fine. The only other con in my opinion was that Wentworth’s post-heartbreak moping and whining got a little tedious after awhile, as did his constant self-flagellation and guilt for his errors. Even still, I wanted him to succeed, and I appreciated reading a character who owned his mistakes and understood that he was responsible for putting in the effort to win back his lover.
People may wish to be aware that that are a few scenes with violence, including a scene of attempted (but thwarted) child abuse, a flashback fight scene, and a scene where someone dies, but none of it is explicitly described.
Overall, a relatively enjoyable regency romp if you can get over Wentworth’s moodiness.
So, Bridgerton got me hooked on regency romance novels, a genre I never expected to take interest in, but it’s 2021, the world is still in shambles, and here we are.
So when I saw this title pop up on NetGalley, I was like... gay regency romance? Hell yeah, let’s do it.
Having only read like 8 regency romances to date (all this year, most by the same author), I feel at least somewhat qualified to say this book is typical of the genre. Pros: I instantly liked all the characters involved and was rooting for the main couple from the first pages. It contained pretty much everything one comes to a regency expecting to get. Intimate scenes were well-written. There was acknowledgement of the struggles two gay men would face as members of society in regency-era England, but it wasn’t an overarching or overbearing part of the book. Unrealistic? Perhaps, but in my opinion, that’s what this genre is for.
Cons: the plot got hella confusing at points. There were an almost repetitive number of flashbacks, which I learned from the author’s note was an intentional choice in an attempt to portray a character dealing with traumatic memory loss. The problem was, this led me to dizzy myself trying to fit together various random events to understand what happened in the past that was so evidently traumatic. By the end of the book, having been given all the pieces of the puzzle, I feel like what was constructed was a piece of abstract art. It all kind of fit sensibly together if you tilt your head and squint. I’m still not sure I fully understand what supposedly happened, but I got enough gist for the rest of the story to come together just fine. The only other con in my opinion was that Wentworth’s post-heartbreak moping and whining got a little tedious after awhile, as did his constant self-flagellation and guilt for his errors. Even still, I wanted him to succeed, and I appreciated reading a character who owned his mistakes and understood that he was responsible for putting in the effort to win back his lover.
People may wish to be aware that that are a few scenes with violence, including a scene of attempted (but thwarted) child abuse, a flashback fight scene, and a scene where someone dies, but none of it is explicitly described.
Overall, a relatively enjoyable regency romp if you can get over Wentworth’s moodiness.
January 27, 2021
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
After William broke his heart, Wentworth swore he could never love again. Their families have been estranged for years until Hector wanders back into Wentworth’s life. Can he find love again, or will the uncomfortable fact that Hector is William’s younger brother blight any future they might have?
Stephanie Lake is a wife/husband writing team, and I’ve been a fan since His Second Chance. This latest novel, His Brother’s Viscount, continues in the second chance theme, but with a twist. This time, the hero is also being offered a second chance to right his wrongs as well as a second chance at love.
The story takes place in county and city England, which is wonderfully described. I could almost feel the quill pen between my fingers, smell the county air, hear the noisy chaos of London. The chemistry between the two main characters is electric, leading to some gorgeously written love scenes and sweet exchanges.
I didn’t warm to Wentworth at first as his cynicism made his motives seem dark and very unheroic. But as Stephanie Lake skillfully unravels him, it becomes clear he’s tortured rather than evil. One bad decision—one for which he’s still paying—cursed his life, and his only pleasure is wallowing in the hell he created. But then Hector comes along, and he wants out. Unfortunately, he has no idea how to go about this.
Hector is delightful from the start. I think he might be my favourite Stephanie Lake character ever, even if he is the kind of man who’d be cheerful before coffee... Bright and optimistic, he sees the best in everyone and skips through life without an enemy in the world. But this trait is also his downfall, leading him to put his trust in the wrong man.
The plot moves fast, jumping back and forth in time to unfold the past, events which lead to a shattering confrontation. But, without giving anything away, Wentworth does redeem himself, and there is a lovely happily ever after. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves Regency England, action plots, and hot sex.
After William broke his heart, Wentworth swore he could never love again. Their families have been estranged for years until Hector wanders back into Wentworth’s life. Can he find love again, or will the uncomfortable fact that Hector is William’s younger brother blight any future they might have?
Stephanie Lake is a wife/husband writing team, and I’ve been a fan since His Second Chance. This latest novel, His Brother’s Viscount, continues in the second chance theme, but with a twist. This time, the hero is also being offered a second chance to right his wrongs as well as a second chance at love.
The story takes place in county and city England, which is wonderfully described. I could almost feel the quill pen between my fingers, smell the county air, hear the noisy chaos of London. The chemistry between the two main characters is electric, leading to some gorgeously written love scenes and sweet exchanges.
I didn’t warm to Wentworth at first as his cynicism made his motives seem dark and very unheroic. But as Stephanie Lake skillfully unravels him, it becomes clear he’s tortured rather than evil. One bad decision—one for which he’s still paying—cursed his life, and his only pleasure is wallowing in the hell he created. But then Hector comes along, and he wants out. Unfortunately, he has no idea how to go about this.
Hector is delightful from the start. I think he might be my favourite Stephanie Lake character ever, even if he is the kind of man who’d be cheerful before coffee... Bright and optimistic, he sees the best in everyone and skips through life without an enemy in the world. But this trait is also his downfall, leading him to put his trust in the wrong man.
The plot moves fast, jumping back and forth in time to unfold the past, events which lead to a shattering confrontation. But, without giving anything away, Wentworth does redeem himself, and there is a lovely happily ever after. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves Regency England, action plots, and hot sex.
July 11, 2021
**3.5 stars**
I think what kept this from being 4 stars for me was the non-love triangle that was a part of the character development.
Hector's older brother Will was best friends with Tyler and as they grew up they also became romantic partners, until Will decided that he didn't want to risk his position in society to stay with Tyler. Being romantically involved with another man is taboo during this time period in the book, however the people that are in these characters' lives all seem willing to look the other way at the relationship. Fine with me I could suspend my disbelief.
I didn't want Will in the picture at all though. It would have been fine if he acted politely towards Tyler and left it at that, but the way he kept trying to get in between Tyler and Hector without giving a clear reason for why he was doing it bothered me. It made him seem more childish and undeserving of the love that Tyler had offered in the past. The man has a wife and a child, he did not need to be hanging around Tyler's home trying to seduce him away from his younger brother...
I would have liked if the tension had lasted longer. A number of years pass in this book, but it didn't feel that way because everything seemed to be resolved on page so quickly. I think reading more about their daily lives as they struggled with their growing feelings would have helped.
I loved the brief mention of couples from precious books, I would have loved to read about Hector interacting with them, rather than just getting a loan.
Overall, this is a cute Regency romance with a HEA. A quick read that can be finished in a day with some dedicated time.
Final notes:
- Told from 3 POVS
- Third person POV
- Slight age gap [12 years]
- Implied domestic abuse [this is very light, but more so characters voice their worries about what could happen]
- I received a free copy of the book
I think what kept this from being 4 stars for me was the non-love triangle that was a part of the character development.
Hector's older brother Will was best friends with Tyler and as they grew up they also became romantic partners, until Will decided that he didn't want to risk his position in society to stay with Tyler. Being romantically involved with another man is taboo during this time period in the book, however the people that are in these characters' lives all seem willing to look the other way at the relationship. Fine with me I could suspend my disbelief.
I didn't want Will in the picture at all though. It would have been fine if he acted politely towards Tyler and left it at that, but the way he kept trying to get in between Tyler and Hector without giving a clear reason for why he was doing it bothered me. It made him seem more childish and undeserving of the love that Tyler had offered in the past. The man has a wife and a child, he did not need to be hanging around Tyler's home trying to seduce him away from his younger brother...
I would have liked if the tension had lasted longer. A number of years pass in this book, but it didn't feel that way because everything seemed to be resolved on page so quickly. I think reading more about their daily lives as they struggled with their growing feelings would have helped.
I loved the brief mention of couples from precious books, I would have loved to read about Hector interacting with them, rather than just getting a loan.
Overall, this is a cute Regency romance with a HEA. A quick read that can be finished in a day with some dedicated time.
Final notes:
- Told from 3 POVS
- Third person POV
- Slight age gap [12 years]
- Implied domestic abuse [this is very light, but more so characters voice their worries about what could happen]
- I received a free copy of the book
December 31, 2020
His Brother’s Viscount by Stephanie Lake.
Entertaining debut read by this new author. It’s a scandalous story about Viscount Wentworth and his lover Hector Somerville. Hector is a sweet and sunny third son who has always been in love with Tyler Wentworth. Wentworth is a sophisticated viscount, and navy captain, that has been in love with Hector’s older brother William his whole life. Hector and Wentworth for a complicated relationship and originally I didn’t think they had much chemistry but it builds over the course of the story. I liked the angst and struggle Wentworth had to go through to finally realizing he was in love with Hector. I wish Hector made him grovel a little more because Wentworth deserved it. The only thing I struggled with was the flashbacks, timeline and point of view change. I was occasionally confused but still enjoyed it throughly. I devoured it in two sittings. I will definitely keep my eye out for more Stephanie Lake books in the future!
Entertaining debut read by this new author. It’s a scandalous story about Viscount Wentworth and his lover Hector Somerville. Hector is a sweet and sunny third son who has always been in love with Tyler Wentworth. Wentworth is a sophisticated viscount, and navy captain, that has been in love with Hector’s older brother William his whole life. Hector and Wentworth for a complicated relationship and originally I didn’t think they had much chemistry but it builds over the course of the story. I liked the angst and struggle Wentworth had to go through to finally realizing he was in love with Hector. I wish Hector made him grovel a little more because Wentworth deserved it. The only thing I struggled with was the flashbacks, timeline and point of view change. I was occasionally confused but still enjoyed it throughly. I devoured it in two sittings. I will definitely keep my eye out for more Stephanie Lake books in the future!
January 12, 2021
Queer historical romances are my favorite genre, so I was looking forward to reading this book. I enjoyed my reading experience, but there were too many points of view. This is an understandable choice, but it made it a bit tricky to keep up with the various connections. Furthermore, it’s a bit messy for the titular viscount to have been involved with two different brothers, and it is also messy for the married brother to show up at the viscount’s house to object to the viscount—a thousand apologies for the anachronism—hooking up with the second brother. But if I’m being honest, messy drama like that is part of what made this book so appealing. The time skips were a bit tricky to keep up with, but I was able to get the gist of the history between the characters. This book is soap opera levels of melodrama to the nth degree, and I did enjoy this book.
I received an ARC of this book from Bold Strokes Books/Netgalley.
I received an ARC of this book from Bold Strokes Books/Netgalley.
February 11, 2021
Disclaimer: eARC via NetGalley
There is a reason romance novels tend to stick to two PoVs. It signals who the romance is between, and allows the reader to explore both sides of the romance. More than two and it can get confusing as well as diluting all the pathos. Unfortunately this story falls into the trap of trying to showoff the PoV of everyone involved in the story.
The basic premise has a lot going for it and the characters on their own have a lot of merit, but the pacing was off, the language fell on the awkward side of purple prose, and the above >2 PoV made this something of a slog to get through.
There is a reason romance novels tend to stick to two PoVs. It signals who the romance is between, and allows the reader to explore both sides of the romance. More than two and it can get confusing as well as diluting all the pathos. Unfortunately this story falls into the trap of trying to showoff the PoV of everyone involved in the story.
The basic premise has a lot going for it and the characters on their own have a lot of merit, but the pacing was off, the language fell on the awkward side of purple prose, and the above >2 PoV made this something of a slog to get through.
February 7, 2021
I got really excited when I found a new M/M regency romance book. I loved regency books when I was younger and have been loving all the new M/M ones that have been showing up lately. I had high hopes for this book but sadly it fell a bit flat for me. I had a hard time with all the flash backs and had a hard time connecting with the characters. This was one of those books that I struggled to finish.
January 9, 2021
Enjoyed the story of Hector and Wentworth’s relationship and all of the ups and downs that they went through before they discover the HEA they both deserve. There is a lot happening in this story that makes for a good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up
I enjoyed reading this.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I liked it. Historical MM fiction is one of my favorite romance genres. I have to admit that I had a bit of trouble following the timeline at a few points. The shifts were clearly marked in the book but my brain just didn’t absorb them for some reason so I had to flip back through to reorient myself.
Wentworth was really a jerk and Hector was pretty sweet (at least at first). They definitely went through some rough patches but Wentworth came through in a spectacular way before the end of the story.
I enjoyed these characters and I would read more books from Stephanie Lake.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I enjoyed reading this.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I liked it. Historical MM fiction is one of my favorite romance genres. I have to admit that I had a bit of trouble following the timeline at a few points. The shifts were clearly marked in the book but my brain just didn’t absorb them for some reason so I had to flip back through to reorient myself.
Wentworth was really a jerk and Hector was pretty sweet (at least at first). They definitely went through some rough patches but Wentworth came through in a spectacular way before the end of the story.
I enjoyed these characters and I would read more books from Stephanie Lake.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
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