Review of A Fashionable Indulgence by K.J. Charles

by K.J. Charles

4.5 Stars

 In the first novel of an explosive new series from K. J. Charles, a young gentleman and his elegant mentor fight for love in a world of wealth, power, and manipulation.

When he learns that he could be the heir to an unexpected fortune, Harry Vane rejects his past as a Radical fighting for government reform and sets about wooing his lovely cousin. But his heart is captured instead by the most beautiful, chic man he’s ever met: the dandy tasked with instructing him in the manners and style of the ton. Harry’s new station demands conformity—and yet the one thing he desires is a taste of the wrong pair of lips.

After witnessing firsthand the horrors of Waterloo, Julius Norreys sought refuge behind the luxurious facade of the upper crust. Now he concerns himself exclusively with the cut of his coat and the quality of his boots. And yet his protégé is so unblemished by cynicism that he inspires the first flare of genuine desire Julius has felt in years. He cannot protect Harry from the worst excesses of society. But together they can withstand the high price of passion.

A Fashionable Indulgence is the first in a new series by K.J. Charles, a historical romance set with around a small group of men the Ricardians who have the same tastes in bed-partners.  But don’t be fooled  by this book has intrigue, political strife and romance romance romance.  We love a good historical romance and seriously, K.J. Charles is one of the best at delivering.  This book is a m/m version of My Fair Lady, but with a lot more naked fun!

Julian, a Regency Dandy is tasked with turning Harry, a son of a long passed radical that had been dis-inherited by his wealthy family into a true gentleman of that time.  Harry’s grandfather wants to put the family back together and marry Harry off to carry on the family line, but knows he lacks the quality for the London season.   Julian is a bit of an un-likeable character that hides behind a perfect façade, but Harry’s love-of-life reminds Julian that there is love  and he is deserving.

What stands out about A Fashionable Indulgence is the characters, not just the mains but the group of Ricardians.  They create a world that you can totally believe.  K.J. Charles creates a whole world that you can easily find yourself believing, with the clash between upper and lower classes laid out between the 2 main characters.   Harry coming from the streets feels the divide keenly and brings a little humanity to the Ricadians who have lived at the top all their lives.

K.J. Charles is a master at weaving a story, and A Fashionable Indulgence does NOT disappoint.  Even if you aren’t into the historical romance, this book is SO much more!  We can’t wait to dig into the next sequels!