Reflection's Reviews > Mr Warren's Profession

**A free copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MM Romance Group ‘Don’t Buy My Love’ program.**

Truth be told, I love this book so much, I dived into the sequel urgently, allowing myslef no time to leave a review for this one until now!

I couldn't bear to be parted from Aubrey and Lindsey quite so soon. Having been sated I'm back to tell you that you really should read this book, if you love:
...romance... this is for you.
...well written and researched historical drama... this is for you.
...books that deal with issues of class and discrimination... this is for you.
...M/M then this is for you.
It is a really great book. Disregard the cover and try it. I guarantee you will not reget it.

I wouldn't be the first to the mention the cover. I accept it has a quaintness, but I am not partial to to the artwork. I didn't like it before reading the story, and as such, went into this not expecting much from the story other than a light read. Instead, I was totally charmed.

Having read this book, I studied the cover once again and with a little more hindsight. I still haven't warmed to it. Here's why: I don't believe it is a good enough representation of either of the characters.

The story is beautifully written, a thoughtful and crafted piece of work. It is incredibly well researched , historical fiction. There is great character development with both depth and a light touch.

In particular, I don't believe the cover captures Aubrey well. He's compared as Ganymede (three times) within the story - a beautiful man with striking looks. Aubrey Warren is also a survivor. To my mind, he's not obsequious, perhaps the artist is aiming for intensity? But for my fading eyesight I don't get the vibe.

Similarly, Lindsey is naive with a dashing joie de vivre and an optimistic nature. I don't feel this comes across in the artwork either.

Mr Warren's Profession is rich in Victorian etiquette. Contrasting descriptions of poverty, and of genteel society is woven throughout with explorations of politics, technology, morality, medicine and unfolding historical events. There is also friendship, family, an appreciation of the arts and a dash of greek mythology. The style and language of the story feels authentic too.

Victorian society is evocatively captured. I enjoyed the differences in class and exprience of the two main characters. Lindsey makes occassional faux pas due to his privileged background. Aubrey harbours caution and suspicion, drawn mostly from his past experiences as somebody born to the workhouse. He is driven to ensure that he can support himself regardless of how meagre that may be, both now and in the future so that he never has to return there. I think the trauma of this is deftly explored.

Both men, regardless of position need to take account of the very real danger of being gay in a largely uncompromising social setting.

The story is deeply moving, it has elements of angst and a slowburn romance building on immediate attraction (at least on Lindsey's part). There is humour, and some truly intimate moments. The author weaves a rich tapestry of hope, joy and despair. I love how both main characters have flaws and make mistakes, and yet both strive to resolve the issues they struggle with. I also appreciate that the role of women within the story is not overlooked, and there is also a brief exploration of their experiences too.

Coming across Sebastian Nothwell as part of the M/M Romance Group ‘Don’t Buy My Love’ program is indeed a happy find. I look forward to immersing myself in his other books too (having just finished and thoroughly recommending the sequel to this, Throw His Heart Over). I do urge you to read this book and enjoy the tale of Aubrey Warren and Sir Lindsey as they overcome the many obstactles within their path to be together. I think what this story captures most beautifully, is the depth of love and the acceptance of your life partner, to admire them just as they are, flaws and all through the good times and the adversity in life without the wish to change them. I think that's why I love this book so much.