The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen
By KJ Charles
ROMCO Rating: ★★★★☆
-
The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen is a sweeping tale of queer love in 19th-century England. The novel is unusually plot-driven for the Romance genre but not necessarily for the author. The plot is overall exciting and expansive. The reader experiences the power struggles between rival smuggling gangs, the hypocrisy of classist politics, and the local flora and fauna. At times, KJ Charles provides so much information relating to the period that it bogs down the pace. The plot would not lose substance if currency exchange rates were left on the cutting room floor. Despite occasional pacing issues, overall, The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen is an engaging page-turner for any lovers of Poldark or Wuthering Heights.
Mystery ✓
-
The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen unfolds with a diverse ensemble of characters, each boasting a unique personality, voice, and backstory. Together, they form the quirky, felonious populace of Romney Marsh. The two leads, Joss and Gareth, are introduced to the reader in an anonymous tryst removed from the pressures of everyday life. Once identities are revealed, the protagonists quickly fall into their respective archetypes: charming rogue and condescending ‘aristocrat.’ However, by allowing this initial glimpse into their unburdened selves, KJ creates a sympathetic first impression for the reader. This impression anticipates the characters’ growth throughout the novel. Ultimately, Joss and Garreth are robust characters who endear themselves to the reader. that makes perfect sense within the storyline.
Grumpy x Sunshine ✓
Dual POV ✓
-
The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen masterfully crafts a gratifying tale of opposites attracting. Joss exudes charm and confidence, standing in stark contrast to Garreth's insecurities and standoffish demeanor. Yet, beyond their differing personalities, the novel delves into challenges that extend far beyond character dynamics.
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century norms, the narrative unflinchingly explores issues such as homophobia and class disparity. Despite these obstacles, Joss and Garreth nurture a tender and heartwarming romance. Notably, the strength of their connection lies not in merely "looking past" or "overcoming" their significant differences in personalities and lived experiences. Instead, the narrative authentically portrays the couple navigating and embracing these distinctions, adding depth and authenticity to their evolving relationship.
Queer ✓
Hidden identity ✓
Opposites attract ✓
TW: Homophobic attitudes and language consistent with time-period
-
Explicit open door ✓
Summary
Abandoned by his father as a small child, Sir Gareth Inglis has grown up prickly, cold, and well-used to disappointment. Even so, he longs for a connection, falling headfirst into a passionate anonymous affair that's over almost as quickly as it began. Bitter at the sudden rejection, Gareth has little time to lick his wounds: his father has died, leaving him the family title, a rambling manor on the remote Romney Marsh...and the den of cutthroats and thieves that make its intricate waterways their home.
Joss Doomsday has run the Doomsday smuggling clan since he was a boy. His family is his life...which is why when the all-too-familiar new baronet testifies against Joss's sister for a hanging offense, Joss acts fast, blackmailing Gareth with the secret of their relationship to force him to recant. Their reunion is anything but happy and the path forward everything but smooth, yet after the dust settles, neither can stay away. It's a long road from there—full of danger and mysteries to be solved—yet somehow, along the way, this well-mannered gentleman may at last find true love with the least likely of scoundrels.
