Book 1 of 5 in the Regency Erotic Romance series, The Gentleman Courtesans.Miss Evelyn Coburn refuses to die a virgin. At the age of five-and-twenty, she has never even been kissed properly. Upon receiving her inheritance, she decides to investigate rumors of a secret London agency which provides the services of male courtesans. Someone to teach her the secrets of the bedchamber and do away with … bedchamber and do away with the nuisance of her maidenhead is all Evelyn anticipates from such an arrangement.
The Honourable Hugh Radcliffe is in dire financial straits after being disowned by his family for pursuing a career as a portraitist. When he’s asked to go into business to form The Gentleman Courtesans, he agrees, needing the income until his work is accepted into the Royal Academy of the Arts’ annual Summer Exhibition—an event that could earn him the exposure needed to launch him to fame.
The arrangement with Evelyn is only supposed to be temporary, and Hugh is determined for her to be his last paramour. But when physical attraction evolves into a deeper connection, she becomes the muse for his greatest work of art yet. With their affair coming to an end, Hugh will be forced to acknowledge that Evelyn is the key to his success as well as his joy.
Will their newfound happiness end when their arrangement does, or will what began as a matter of lust and convenience lead to true and lasting love?
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Whew! I need to fan myself after reading this one! Victoria Vale is the spice of life, I tell you!
4 “Draw Me Like One of Your French Girls” Stars!
This was a light and easy read with an interesting premise: Gentlemen Courtesans. Many historical romances involve mistresses (either a gentleman falls in love with one, or there is an evil one mad that her former keeper has a new love, etc.), but this is the first book in a series about men who take on female clients. The idea is hatched in the bachelor den of Benedict, the “leader” of the group of misfit, disowned, cut off, and/or strongly frowned upon sons of titled men. After night of unmatched debauchery, this eclectic group of friends brought together by their circumstances realize that their fun is likely to come to a swift end as they are completely out of funds with little hope to acquire more as their fathers have long washed their hands of their antics. Then Benedict comes up with an inspired idea…. what if they could use the “skills” they most enjoy to make money? Certainly there are women of means who want someone to showcase, take to events, and service them privately…. At first, the idea seems ridiculous, but with nothing to lose, the friends decide to go for it and form the very secretive, word-of-mouth referral only Gentlemen Courtesans (GC) service.
Skip ahead to two years later when the business is thriving and one of the GC’s is working towards the goal he knows will allow him to live independently and not have to worry about the fact that he was cut completely from his family by edict of his father, the earl, because of his desire to (of all ghastly things!) work for a living. Hugh Radcliff is the 4th son of an earl, and he has always had a passion for art; his dream is to become a portraitist, but he needs to have his work displayed in the summer Exhibition in order to attract members of the beau monde to commission him to render their portraits. Serving as a member of the Gentlemen Courtesans has permitted him to lease a town home for him to live in and establish a space to create his works, and it has given him the means to attend the prestigious art academy where he has caught the eye of one of the most brilliant artists who has decided to mentor him. Though for the last two summers Hugh submitted what he felt was excellent work for consideration to be exhibited, the committee has turned him down on both occasions. Hugh feels that this is his last chance to create something worthy of the Exhibition that will then allow him to make money from his artistic talents and perhaps find the right woman to begin a family of his own, as his family has given him the cut direct across the board since he announced his intention to become an artist. His most recent keeper has decided to marry, so he is available to take on another woman that he knows must be his last as his art will keep him occupied once his work is accepted.
Evelyn Coburn is firmly on the shelf at five and twenty. Her two older sisters had no trouble in conquering the marriage mart with their sparkling personalities and feminine attributes, and both have been settled and happily starting their own families. Evie, however, has always found herself tongue-tied around the opposite sex, and once word got around that she was a dreadful conversationalist, the gentlemen steered clear; thus, she became a wallflower. Her grandfather made arrangements for her and her sisters to have substantial dowries, but if they were not wed by age 25, those dowries went directly to the girls. Evie is now considered an heiress as she has come into those generous funds, and she has decided that while marriage will never happen for her, she would like to taste passion at least once. She refuses to die a virgin. So after hearing about this secretive group of male courtesans from a friend, she decides to shove aside her fears and give it a try.
Benedict feels that Hugh is the perfect match for the shy virginal type as he is patient, romantic, and thoughtful, so he matches them up for the first time at a masquerade. When Evie first spots the man across the way from their assigned meeting place, she instantly knows it must be Hugh, and she is struck by how handsome and suave he is, and is, of course, immediately intimidated. Hugh recognizes the look of a lady ready to flee, and he disarms her with his charm and kindness. After spending a little time with Evie, Hugh finds that he really does like her. As time goes on with their affair, Evie realizes she has fallen in love with the one person she knows can never feel that way for her — after all, the whole “courtship” and romance is what Hugh provides to all of his women, isn’t it? She can’t possibly be special to him. Will the wallflower and painfully shy Evie summon up enough courage to tell Hugh that she has fallen for him? Can Hugh find a way to have it all: a life with Evie and a successful art career? Are either of them willing to take such a risk?
Overall, this was a good read as the plot was original —I have not read about gentlemen “mistresses” (would that make them “misters”?). As the H, Hugh was definitely swoon-worthy (I am not a big fan of the brooding artist type, but he was still pretty dreamy), and Evie was the kind of female MC you find yourself rooting for. Also, I enjoyed the delicious steamy goodness (explicit at times). A fun beach read for sure, and I am looking forward to the stories of the other members of the GC.
Plot — 4/5
Main Characters — 4/5
Supporting Cast — 4/5
Steam Level* — 4/5
Violence — none
Language — f word used pretty liberally
POV — 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 – clean; 1/5 – mild; 2/5 – sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 – now we’re getting somewhere; 4/5 – yes please! ; 5/5 – they did EVERYTHING in this one, y’all
I received an advance copy of this book from Booksprout in exchange for my honest review.
Five young men from ton society find themselves in financial straights. As a solution to their meager finances, they form their own business as Gentlemen Courtesans. Two years later, Hugh Radcliffe has been able to afford his studies at the art academy. His goal is to have one of his paintings accepted for the Summer Exhibition. His next client is a virgin. Evelyn is shy, nervous and uncomfortable in crowds, but Hugh puts her at ease. As their friendship as lovers progresses, Evelyn becomes the key to Hugh’s success, as only a man in love can make the world see her through his eyes. A lovely romance that’s not just about the sex. A free copy from the author for an honest review.
What an unexpected surprise this book has turned out to be. When I think of a male courtesan, usually it’s with a seedy connotation and dark circumstances. One where he, the male courtesan is one to take advantage of his female client. This, however, is one of relatable humanity. The storyline itself flows so well it drew me in from the start, making me feel like I was there witnessing the original conversation and thus making me a part of their drama. The overall plot itself is without a doubt understandable in the eyes of this reader. Victoria Vale has given us Hugh and Evie, both having judgements placed against them from family and society, and allowed them to grow as characters right before my eyes. This turned into a romance so sublime to make this reader close her eyes and take a deep breath when it was finished. If this is only the beginning of this series, I can barely wait for the remainder of the books to come.
This was such a terrific, yummy, steamy, wonderful book. It was well written, the characters were brilliant, and the plot was entertaining. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the story of Hugh and Evelyn and how they find true love. As a courtesan, Hugh is contracted by Evelyn to initiate her into the art of romance and to lose her virginity. After coming into her inheritance and still unmarried, Evelyn is determined to lose her virginity before she lives the life of a spinster, even though she is only 25. In the end she finds the happiness she never thought she would find or deserved. This is a wonderful story and beautifully written. As usual, Ms. Vale has the unique ability to draw you into the story and keep your attention until the very end. I would highly recommend this book as a great read and I assure you that you will not be disappointed.
I loved this book so much! Fascinating premise as well. We are all used to the fact that men in the aristocracy had mistresses. It was accepted and encouraged. I love the thought of Victorian ladies owning their sexuality and seeking a male courtesan! Hugh is a Hero that you want to get behind (or have behind you! 😉 ) and I never did not feel this way thru out. This book has the romance, wit and subtle humor I want in a great read. And the steam level was scorching! Vale is a relatively new author to me, but she is now a permanent one. I eagerly await the next in the series.
Thoroughly enjoyable romance with a unique premise.
The use of painting by the hero as a means by which to give the heroine a confidence boost was wonderfully well done. Intriguing hints at subsequent books and the problems these gentlemen courtesans will face make for a strong series opener.
Really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next ones.
Halfway common element: “hopeless spinster” wants to lose her virginity, experience passion.
Uncommon element: male cortesans
Both elements are combined to a very interesting story with very likable characters, and it’s not just about sex.
Loved the book it was great the story was well written and the characters were interesting. Evelyn is still a virgin she did not want to wait until they were married. Hugh needed money to continue his art exhibition.
Thank you for allowing me to review this book it was great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hugh is a struggling artist who’s been disowned by his family. He makes ends meet as a male “escort” of the time. Evelyn’s a confirmed spinster, who hires Hugh to teach her about passion, and allow her to experience romance. He’s outgoing and charismatic – she’s shy and retreating. They find that opposites attract as they get to know one another. I don’t read many historical romances, but loved this story – it was so romantic. The characters were likable and genuine, and this turned into quite a steamy story. This is my first read from this author, and I’m looking forward to the rest of this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was very excited for this new series by Ms. Vale and the first book did not disappoint. I love the premise of women being able to seek their own pleasure and go against societal notions of the time. Hugh and Evie are an outstanding couple with a steamy love story for the ages. I highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading the other books in this series as they release.
Not as dark as the villain series, but just as interesting.
Ever since I was introduced to Ms. Vale’s work in the villain books I have been a fan and this one did not disappoint. I love how I can become so drawn into a book that I lose time! This idea was a super twist on how gentlemen may figure a way to support themselves. Evelyn and Hugh are outstanding characters. I am looking forward to the additional books in this series I am rooting for all the gentlemen! This one I highly recommend, you should pick it. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I thought that this book was quite original and I really enjoyed it. This read is steamy but it is also has a surprising amount of sweetness. I loved the characters and am thrilled they found one another and happiness. I thought the male courtesan angle was fresh and I’ll be honest here, it was nice to see the shoe on the other foot for once, so to speak. I feel that normally, this is only something you see the female characters turn to as an answer to their monetary problems, particularly in this era. Evelyn and Hugh’s romance not only captured my attention, it captured my heart. These two were perfect for each other. I loved how the helped ease each other’s soul, inspired confidence in the other and really just made the other a better, happier person. I am definately looking forward to more from this series.
My first male courtesan book and I loved it!
Hugh is so charismatic & sweet. He is an artist an a member of the Gentleman Courtesans (GC). A group created to help the gentleman support themselves now that they are cut off from their families in one way or another.
Evelyn is a painfully shy spinster who is looking for a little sexual fun in her life. She is certain that she will remain a spinster but does not want to remain a virgin. So she seeks the help of the GC. She is paired with Hugh and their chemistry is amazing from their first meeting.
They are two broken individuals, but can they find happiness together? Overall this book is such a great read that touches on past hurt, future endeavors, sexual satisfaction, and love. As much as I loved the The Villain series I am loving the start to the GC series even more. It is not as dark as the other series and I can’t wait for more. Get it, you won’t regret it.
I love the historical romances written by Victoria Vale! I have read the entire Villain series and totally loved the last two books, writing some of my longest reviews–nearly a thousand words each–for those books. I will try not to go on so long in this one! What I like about Ms. Vale’s novels is that she is able to pull me right into the story with a great setup and complex characters, making me not want to put the book down.
This book starts with a scene of drunken debauchery of five down-and-out friends. One of them comes up with a brilliant idea that they should become male courtesans so that they could live a life of more ease, as some have debts, have been disowned by their family, or want nothing to do with their family. Gentlemen of the era, of course, didn’t work proper jobs! In this scene, the author sets up the entire series about the gentleman courtesans… and hinted that the ringleader might have some secrets that will probably only be revealed in his book.
The central part of the book starts two years later, discussing the life of one of these courtesans who is hoping for his last keeper (as they call the women) before he breaks into the art scene. I loved the hero and heroine. I felt sorry for the poor girl; she was so meek and timid that she could barely request the services to initiate the relationship, and even after she did, she vacillated between wanting to go forward with her scheme and wanting to back out. As always in this author’s books, the sensual scenes range from steamy to erotica. I thought the author did an excellent job showing the world as it would have been at the time. I felt I was in Vauxhall Gardens at the masquerade (where the first meeting between the hero and heroine took place) myself; I can picture it that vividly from the author’s words. A thoroughly enjoyable first book of what I believe will be another fantastic series by the author.
Portrait of a Lady is the first book in the new series The Gentleman Courtesans. The author really started the series off great! The idea of a series based on male courtesans was intriguing and I wasn’t sure what to expect but this was another wonderful book by the author. The prologue grabs your attention and really sets up the idea of the series. The characters were so sweet and perfect for each other! Evelyn was shy and hated being the center of attention. Hugh was so caring and patient. Evelyn received her inheritance and decides to hire a male courtesan so she can experience romance. She has given up on marriage and has accepted she will become a spinster. Hugh is a portraitist that has been disowned from his family due to his wanting an art career. He is determined that this year his work will be accepted by the Royal Academy of Art and then he will quit being a male courtesan to further his art career. As their relationship progresses and they become more intimate, Hugh realizes that Evelyn has inspired his art and has become his muse. Will they be brave and admit their feelings for each other? This book also introduced some of the other male courtesans and lead into the next book of the series. I can’t wait to read the next book!
Miss Evelyn Coburn is twenty five & refuses to die a virgin. Upon receiving her inheritance, she decides to investigate rumours of a secret London agency which provides the services of male courtesans. The Honourable Hugh Radcliffe is in dire financial straits after being disowned by his family for pursuing a career as a portraitist. Two years ago after a night of drinking & debauchery Hugh & four friends, who are all in need of funds, decide to go into business to form The Gentleman Courtesans. The arrangement with Evelyn is only supposed to be temporary, and Hugh is determined for her to be his last paramour as he needs to concentrate on his art.
I’ve been looking forward to this new series & it didn’t disappoint. I loved the prologue, which beautifully ‘set up’ the series & was a great introduction to the five friends & their reasons for agreeing to be part of the agency. I’m totally intrigued by Ben & his needs, so no doubt Mistress will keep the anticipation simmering & his story will be the last! A well written engrossing read, which I read in two sittings. The characters were well portrayed & very likeable & believable. I loved Hugh such a caring thoughtful man & so different from the author’s usual heroes. I loved how Evie gained confidence & I loved how she stood up for Hugh to Marcus. This as more of a slow burn as Hugh took his time to seduce Evie, certainly not what she was expecting but what she needed. They complimented each other in so many ways, the road to their HEA was highly entertaining. A lovely series opener & I look forward to the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Every time I receive an ARC copy from Victoria Vale I’m told not to write 5 stars, but be truthful. Well it’s impossible to put anything but 5 * on any book of hers!
I should really stop reading her books until all the books in the series are out. We have five gents here and now I will constantly bite my nails in anticipation for their stories to be out.
Hugh, ,the first from the courtesans we meet, is talented and handsome, and has accepted his fate as gentleman courtesan. He is willing to do it until the summer exhibition shows his painting. Then, after commission comes he will stop relying on his lady-keepers to pay the bills and support him.
Evie, extremely shy and firmly on the shelf, wants to be rid of her maidenhead before she dies. So she hires a courtesan to do the deed. Always so gentle, considerate and understanding, he catches her heart with no effort. But he’s only a courtesan and his job is to make women feel loved and needed.
In Victoria Vale’s books we always know what’s in the hero/ heroine’s mind and what they do why they do it, we feel all the emotions they feel. The characters are perfectly made and storyline is always a great one.
Once again you are immersed in a world of beautiful gowns, balls and property etc, where Victoria Vale is making us see , after long hours of research, how the people lived, dressed, even the mediums they used in art and how they painted.
A definite page-turner, great as always, keep the good work coming, mistress Vale!