andloveistoolong's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Medical content, Medical trauma, Outing, Transphobia, Sexual content, Forced institutionalization, and Racism
Moderate: Ableism, Cursing, Kidnapping, Police brutality, Alcohol, Classism, Confinement, and Sexual assault
Minor: Slavery and Dysphoria
ehmannky's review
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
It's a "be gay, do crimes" book, but the crime is two gay men saving a trans man from the horrors that is the medical establishment. The setting of 1830 is a treat to read, if nothing other than being a break from Regency England (which I love a good Regency romance, but this break was nice), and it is so well-researched and so much care went into this world. The descriptions of the trash on the streets and jostle of the crowds and the street food was so fun to read. The romance between Augustus and William was very sweet, and I loved when they were just spending time with each other and establishing boundaries and marveling in the other's presence. Also! The sex scenes were so good! All full of longing and love and bringing a partner pleasure in more ways than just penetration (though there is that too).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia and Confinement
Minor: Ableism
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