I read this because I had run out of Cat Sebastian books, so I might have gone into it with unreasonably high expectations, since she's one of my favourite authors. The Gentleman's Book of Vices was a fun story but it could have been a bit better. I had a good time but didn't give me the deep understanding of the characters and that prevented me from being fully invested in their romance. One thing I liked was the side characters - they were strong for the time they spent on-page and did a lot towards making the story feel more populated. Romances, even those by experienced authors, can fall into the trap of shallow and boring side characters, so that was a pleasant surprise.

I read this book as an ARC through Netgalley, and enjoyed it so much. It checks all of my favorite romance novel boxes: historical fiction, LGBTQ+ characters (including great side characters), and a journey to HEA that feels earned. It's funny, but not sickly sweet. I was hooked right away, and the story was worth it from start to finish. I'm so looking forward to more from this author and would highly recommend this book!

I really loved this book! I enjoyed the historical setting and learning more about how queer books and "smut" were written, sold, and collected. I also liked the depiction of the Curious Fox - Charlie's queer club - it felt more like a found family situation and a safe place to meet others, and I liked how the staff and regulars looked out for Charlie. The main characters are great! Charlie is a bright, seemingly irrepressible fop who loves to read smut, go out to his club, and gossip with friends. Yet underneath his shining veneer is a heart beset by loneliness and a desperate longing to escape the upcoming marriage forced upon him by his family. Miles is a stark contrast - a grim loner with a tragic history of love and loss, determined to carve out a safe existence at the expense of his own happiness. Together, Charlie and Miles are an odd couple yet one that matches up in every way. I really enjoyed their story and all the sweet, romantic highs and the heart-wrenching lows. The supporting characters are so good and I loved how they all worked together to save the day. Overall, a very entertaining read full of feels!

*I received an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

I really liked this historical MM romance! I'm a bit confused by some of the criticism from other readers. I loved the found family characters - the friends at the molly house, the publisher, and Charlie's prospective bride. I actually thought Charlie's choices were mature and thoughtful given the circumstances (don't want to give anything away). I really appreciated that Alma's situation was taken seriously. Victorian society kept A LOT of people down - women as well as LGBTQ people - and it's important that that was addressed in this book. I look forward to reading more of Jess Everlee!