A review by geethr75
The Bachelor's Valet by Arden Powell

5.0

 

This is the first novel of the Flos Magicae series which I had been planning to read for a while. I've already read two books in the series which I enjoyed immensely, and this was no different. 

 

Alphonse Hollyhock is a rich and handsome airhead. He knows he's dumb and has no fashion sense, so he's perfectly happy to let Jacobi, his valet take all decisions regarding his wardrobe and life in general. Jacobi is good looking, smart and efficient. 

 

When his mother decrees that Alphonse should propose to and marry Aaliyah Kaddour, a woman who's helping her father run his business enterprise, Alphonse comes to the realisation that he has no attraction to the fairer sex. His mother has threatened to cut him off without a penny if he bungles this arrangement, however. In desperation, Alphonse can only turn to Jacobi to find a way out. When Jacobi advises him to go ahead with it, Alphonse has no other options. 

 

Till a conversation with Aaliyah makes him realise that she's in the same boat regarding attraction to the opposite sex. However, talking with her has also made him realise his feelings for Jacobi and now Alphonse has to do everything in his power to pretend he isn't love with Jacobi because he doesn't want Jacobi to leave. 

 

This was as funny as the others, and Alphonse is an endearing character, despite being so stupid that Aaliyah has to all but spell out his own feelings for him. For all that, he has a good understanding and can make connections when needed. The unflappable Jacobi with his dry wit, the domineering mother, the scheming Aaliyah and her paramour, Jasmine complete the cast of this very engaging book. 

 

If you love romantic fantasy, queer characters, humour and lots of magic, this is the perfect book for you.