Ratings3
Average rating4.7
DNF @ 50%
Despite the title, I didn't expect this to be an epistolary novel (written entirely in letters between different characters) and that's not my thing. I like at least a little exposition. Constant dialogue wears on me just like actual people constantly talking does.
The characters all seemed pretty charming (except his brother LORD) but there were way too many letters between Gerry (Geraldine) and Gavin. I understand that through them we're getting the bigger picture of what's developing between Gavin and Charles but I just wanted some action. If you find the will-they-won't-they between historical romance tedious, imagine only getting one side of it and it takes over 150 pages just to get a hint that something's happening there.
Also, magic exists in this world which seems random and out of place. And it's like alchemy magic so I'm not sure if these characters have actual magical abilities or just if anyone can make potions and they happen to work.
The usual “rules” of sexuality in this alt reality are a lot more open as in no one seems to have bias with gender or sexuality. So, we're firmly rooted in fantasy here while everything else seems like your basic Regency or Victorian England. Without that angst and danger that would have been the reality for these eras, historical novels kind of lose that edge for me.
Besides that, it's well written so no complaints there. Just not for me.