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Objects Of His Obsession
London, 1898
Lord Benedict Yeats has two obsessions.
One of which has a definite pulse – the seductive and beautiful Evander St John, Duke of Casterwell. A man he has a certain history with.
A man who tells Benedict that he has spent too long amongst sand and dead things. He might not be wrong. Casterwell’s world is one of sexual sophistication and games that Benedict cannot hope to match.
But when Benedict returns from working on a famous dig in Cairo, Casterwell invites him to a country house party that will change his life. An Egyptologist of growing renown, Benedict will also catalogue the famous Casterwell collection of antiquities.
And almost certainly, will become one of Casterwell’s string of lovers. But will he be the one to break through that glittering façade? Or will the scars of Casterwell’s dark, bloody past and his complex and fiercely deceptive private life tear them apart?
Warning: Contains two men wildly obsessed, a lust too long denied, hot m/m sex between a naive Egyptologist and one very determined duke, and absolutely no cursed tombs. Approx. 56000 words.
Lord Benedict Yeats has two obsessions.
One of which has a definite pulse – the seductive and beautiful Evander St John, Duke of Casterwell. A man he has a certain history with.
A man who tells Benedict that he has spent too long amongst sand and dead things. He might not be wrong. Casterwell’s world is one of sexual sophistication and games that Benedict cannot hope to match.
But when Benedict returns from working on a famous dig in Cairo, Casterwell invites him to a country house party that will change his life. An Egyptologist of growing renown, Benedict will also catalogue the famous Casterwell collection of antiquities.
And almost certainly, will become one of Casterwell’s string of lovers. But will he be the one to break through that glittering façade? Or will the scars of Casterwell’s dark, bloody past and his complex and fiercely deceptive private life tear them apart?
Warning: Contains two men wildly obsessed, a lust too long denied, hot m/m sex between a naive Egyptologist and one very determined duke, and absolutely no cursed tombs. Approx. 56000 words.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2014
2 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Jae T. Jaggart
19 books35 followersI’ve been an artist, a web designer, and a really unreliable cook. I love to write wicked hot erotic romance with fiercely passionate, alpha characters, and love tatts, film and fast cars. And judging by that last trio, I'm also extremely shallow!
I am a huge fan of authors who write those magic books you just can't put down, brilliant comedians (hello Eddie Izzard and Russell Brand!) and spoilers. Spoiler alert, bah humbug!
I love to hear from readers and can be reached via my blog, Facebook page or Twitter.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jae-T-...
http://jaetjaggart.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/JaeTJaggart
I am a huge fan of authors who write those magic books you just can't put down, brilliant comedians (hello Eddie Izzard and Russell Brand!) and spoilers. Spoiler alert, bah humbug!
I love to hear from readers and can be reached via my blog, Facebook page or Twitter.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jae-T-...
http://jaetjaggart.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/JaeTJaggart
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 9, 2015
What happens when infatuation is denied?
It grows into an obsession...
- Victorian England
- A charming Duke
- A bookish Lord
- A forbidden attraction
- A steamy affair
Evander St John
the Duke of Casterwell...
Lord Benedict Yeats
Egyptologist & General Bookworm...
Jae T. Jaggart weaves a richly detailed world within this book... The cast of characters is every bit as enthralling as the time period...
On that note, I'd like to take a moment to talk about Evander's wife, Juliana. I went into this book knowing that I've enjoyed the author's previous work... But I was quickly knocked off balance when I discovered that one of the main characters was married. I was sort of expecting that the wife would be portrayed as frigid or scheming, but what I found in Juliana was an amazing, warm, intelligent woman who was far ahead of her time. Unfortunately for Evander, Benedict shares my opinion of Juliana, and the sentiment throws a wrench into Evander's quest to seduce Ben...
I would kill for a follow up of this story. It is a standalone, but I'd love to read what happens next... Always a sign of a good book. I'm left satisfied yet curious about the future of the characters...
Some of My Favorite Moments:
***The author graciously gifted me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
It grows into an obsession...
His twin obsessions were flowering, their thorns hooking under his skin yet deeper.I've come to a decision. While I rarely read Historical Romances, I am a total sucker for a well written MM Historical... And Jae T. Jaggart delivers with this fantastic book.
Egyptology. Evander.
One he had no wish to be free of… The other, must end.
- Victorian England
- A charming Duke
- A bookish Lord
- A forbidden attraction
- A steamy affair
Evander St John
the Duke of Casterwell...
...the most beautiful man Benedict had ever seen. Naked and clothed.Evander is a man who seems to have everything. In the glamorous world of Victorian England's affluent social circles, he is known for obtaining everything he chases after... And it seems that he has set his sights on the naïve Egyptologist, Benedict Yeats...
That exotic beauty backed by an aristocratic drawl and a vicious intellect to match that could cut lesser mortals to shreds, should he choose.
Lord Benedict Yeats
Egyptologist & General Bookworm...
At last, all those questions about himself answered. And he didn't give a damn that they led him down a road away from society and a conventional life.Benedict is a man who refuses to do anything half way. When he discovered his passion for Egyptology as a boy, he threw himself into his studies, eventually becoming a respected (if eccentric) expert in his field... And when he locked eyes with the enigmatic Duke of Casterwell as a student at Oxford, he became hopelessly enamored... Obsessed.
To be true to himself, his passions, his obsessions, was all he had ever believed in.
Jae T. Jaggart weaves a richly detailed world within this book... The cast of characters is every bit as enthralling as the time period...
On that note, I'd like to take a moment to talk about Evander's wife, Juliana. I went into this book knowing that I've enjoyed the author's previous work... But I was quickly knocked off balance when I discovered that one of the main characters was married. I was sort of expecting that the wife would be portrayed as frigid or scheming, but what I found in Juliana was an amazing, warm, intelligent woman who was far ahead of her time. Unfortunately for Evander, Benedict shares my opinion of Juliana, and the sentiment throws a wrench into Evander's quest to seduce Ben...
“I respect her,” Benedict gritted, curling his fingers tighter about Evander’s wrist, drawing that hand away from his throat. “And I don’t care if you two have an arrangement or not. I cannot smile in her face in the daylight and be buggered by her husband by night.”The good news is... Juliana has a vested interest in her husband's romantic conquests, and in a time when arrangements behind closed doors are prevalent among the wealthy, Juliana has a few secrets of her own...
I would kill for a follow up of this story. It is a standalone, but I'd love to read what happens next... Always a sign of a good book. I'm left satisfied yet curious about the future of the characters...
Some of My Favorite Moments:
***The author graciously gifted me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
April 26, 2016
Jae T. Jaggart is gifted in the art of storytelling. Rarely have I come across a book in which the act of reading it felt so personal, as if I were in the same room as the author, a parlor perhaps, comfortably furnished with softly-worn leather armchairs, a crackling fire for warmth allowing just enough light in the darkness as she spins her tale. Objects of His Obsession is such a book.
With rich prose and a distinct writing style, this is not a quick read. It's meant to be enjoyed, savored. Highly descriptive sentence structures meander along at a leisurely pace, not unlike the great Nile River herself. The use of this particular voice wouldn't work to the same effect in a contemporary romance, but it's a perfect match for Benedict and Evander's Victorian love story. The two share a romance, often erotic, yet at times quite sweet, during a time when the discovery of one's homosexuality would mean a ruined reputation and a very real risk to their safety. Impressive characterization endeared me to not only the main couple, but a secondary duo as well.
By the time I reached the last chapters I was desperate for some semblance of a happy ending, be it thoroughly resolved or even bittersweet for the Duke of Casterwell and his mad Egyptologist.
I was not disappointed.
With rich prose and a distinct writing style, this is not a quick read. It's meant to be enjoyed, savored. Highly descriptive sentence structures meander along at a leisurely pace, not unlike the great Nile River herself. The use of this particular voice wouldn't work to the same effect in a contemporary romance, but it's a perfect match for Benedict and Evander's Victorian love story. The two share a romance, often erotic, yet at times quite sweet, during a time when the discovery of one's homosexuality would mean a ruined reputation and a very real risk to their safety. Impressive characterization endeared me to not only the main couple, but a secondary duo as well.
By the time I reached the last chapters I was desperate for some semblance of a happy ending, be it thoroughly resolved or even bittersweet for the Duke of Casterwell and his mad Egyptologist.
I was not disappointed.
August 8, 2014
What I love about historical novels is the whole aspect about how people managed their lives all those years ago, with all the attitudes that existed when they knew they were gay. Well, Jae gives us an account of two guys who love each other very much and the struggle they have in order to find an acceptable future for themselves in this time.
Lord Benedict Yeats is an Egyptologist and is back in the UK, invited by a friend of his from his Oxford days and the attraction is still there. When they were at Oxford it was only a fleeting encounter, more eye contact than anything else, but now Casterwell is married and Yeats spends most of his life in Egypt on digs. These two MCs are sex on legs, both attracted to each other like bees to honey, but still playing the avoidance game for the sake of propriety. Casterwell has invited Yeats under the pretense that he would like him to catalogue the Egyptian collection of artifacts amassed by his grandfather. This was a time of Howard Carter, when Tutankhamen and Egyptology was in its heyday. However, the way things were organised in the beginning was more like treasure hunting than serious archeology, but Yeats is scholarly and things are changing. When Casterwell takes Yeats alone to show him his collection, which at least beats showing him his record or stamp collection, then Yeats is cornered by Casterwell and Yeat’s suspicions about him are confirmed and he can’t believe his luck. Sex among the mummies, but gawd was it hot, hot, hot!!!! You could feel the pent up energy, libido and sex-drive these two have for each other and once they started there was no going back at least for Yeats.
I often asked myself whether these country parties back then where guests would come to stay for prolonged periods was just a smoke screen for bedroom swapping – lol! Well, here it is again, but this time Evander (Casterwell) using his power to allure Benedict (Yeats) to his bedroom. He confesses to Yeats that his wife also has a lover and affair so everything is OK. I couldn’t help but think that maybe the prudishness in those days was only on the outside and once the lights went out and the servants were in bed then the nightly wonderings begin. It certainly was the case in the Casterwell household. When these two guys get together, O.M.G. the sex is off the heat scale. I suppose if you can only get what you want once in a while then there is a lot of sexual frustration to be let off. However, Benedict doesn’t feel comfortable with the situation at all, finds himself liking Evander’s wife, Juliana, more and more and therefore feeling guiltier by the minute. The whole idea of cheating on Juliana becomes a big burden. I can so totally understand this as I don’t condone cheating of any kind myself. So what is the deal with Evander and his wife?
Well, the relationship or marriage between Evander, his wife and children becomes a real bone of contention for Benedict which almost drives them apart. But Evander is a man who once he has set his sights on something then he gets it and that includes Benedict. I could so feel the internal struggle going on in Benedict, it was excruciating. Compounded by the fact that Benedict is only trying to protect his heart from being broken in a time and age where a HEA with another man would truly not have been a possibility. However, we later find out that the marriage is somewhat one of convenience and everyone is happy with the arrangement, mutually beneficial to all concerned and relieved to say that no one had to worry about cheating on someone else. This means that Evander and Benedict can find their appropriate HEA for that day and age.
I love books where the emotions are complicated, people misreading the other’s intentions and this book definitely has this between the two MCs big style. Constantly second guessing each other, misreading the signals, unable to put emotions into words. It was a long journey for the pair of them but well worth all the effort. The sexual tension and sex between these guys is hot, OMG I was reduced to a puddle of gooey hot desire on more than one occasion. If you like a smoldering hot erotic romance with an historical background then this book will definitely be one to add to your TBR list.
Lord Benedict Yeats is an Egyptologist and is back in the UK, invited by a friend of his from his Oxford days and the attraction is still there. When they were at Oxford it was only a fleeting encounter, more eye contact than anything else, but now Casterwell is married and Yeats spends most of his life in Egypt on digs. These two MCs are sex on legs, both attracted to each other like bees to honey, but still playing the avoidance game for the sake of propriety. Casterwell has invited Yeats under the pretense that he would like him to catalogue the Egyptian collection of artifacts amassed by his grandfather. This was a time of Howard Carter, when Tutankhamen and Egyptology was in its heyday. However, the way things were organised in the beginning was more like treasure hunting than serious archeology, but Yeats is scholarly and things are changing. When Casterwell takes Yeats alone to show him his collection, which at least beats showing him his record or stamp collection, then Yeats is cornered by Casterwell and Yeat’s suspicions about him are confirmed and he can’t believe his luck. Sex among the mummies, but gawd was it hot, hot, hot!!!! You could feel the pent up energy, libido and sex-drive these two have for each other and once they started there was no going back at least for Yeats.
I often asked myself whether these country parties back then where guests would come to stay for prolonged periods was just a smoke screen for bedroom swapping – lol! Well, here it is again, but this time Evander (Casterwell) using his power to allure Benedict (Yeats) to his bedroom. He confesses to Yeats that his wife also has a lover and affair so everything is OK. I couldn’t help but think that maybe the prudishness in those days was only on the outside and once the lights went out and the servants were in bed then the nightly wonderings begin. It certainly was the case in the Casterwell household. When these two guys get together, O.M.G. the sex is off the heat scale. I suppose if you can only get what you want once in a while then there is a lot of sexual frustration to be let off. However, Benedict doesn’t feel comfortable with the situation at all, finds himself liking Evander’s wife, Juliana, more and more and therefore feeling guiltier by the minute. The whole idea of cheating on Juliana becomes a big burden. I can so totally understand this as I don’t condone cheating of any kind myself. So what is the deal with Evander and his wife?
Well, the relationship or marriage between Evander, his wife and children becomes a real bone of contention for Benedict which almost drives them apart. But Evander is a man who once he has set his sights on something then he gets it and that includes Benedict. I could so feel the internal struggle going on in Benedict, it was excruciating. Compounded by the fact that Benedict is only trying to protect his heart from being broken in a time and age where a HEA with another man would truly not have been a possibility. However, we later find out that the marriage is somewhat one of convenience and everyone is happy with the arrangement, mutually beneficial to all concerned and relieved to say that no one had to worry about cheating on someone else. This means that Evander and Benedict can find their appropriate HEA for that day and age.
I love books where the emotions are complicated, people misreading the other’s intentions and this book definitely has this between the two MCs big style. Constantly second guessing each other, misreading the signals, unable to put emotions into words. It was a long journey for the pair of them but well worth all the effort. The sexual tension and sex between these guys is hot, OMG I was reduced to a puddle of gooey hot desire on more than one occasion. If you like a smoldering hot erotic romance with an historical background then this book will definitely be one to add to your TBR list.
June 1, 2014
Lord Benedict Yeats has long been obsessed with Evander St. John, ever since they crossed paths that fateful day in school…the obsessed archeology student catching the eye of the wealthy only son of a Duke. Evander has played the lead role in Benedict’s fantasies for all these years, afraid to take that last step in confirming his sexuality. That is, until Benedict is invited to spend the week cataloging the huge Egyptian artifact collection amassed by Evander’s grandfather, and Evander proposes to make Benedict’s obsession a reality. The problem: Evander’s wife, Juliana, stands in the way of Benedict’s morals. Of course that doesn’t stop Benedict from succumbing to his obsession.
I really liked this story…
I really liked how the story was separated into parts designating Benedict’s vs. Evander’s POV. It starts off with the large, beginning portion of the story being told entirely from Benedict’s POV, which left me wondering all about what Evander was really thinking; I wasn’t sure how he really felt for Benedict. Was possessing Benedict just a goal? Another notch on his bedpost? Or did he really feel something for Benedict. Oh he felt for him alright! I’m not sure how realistic Evander’s I-always-knew-we-would-be-together-one-day speech was, but I still loved that scene and his admission.
I really liked the setting. From London, England to Cairo, Egypt to Paris, France. Although, the setting doesn’t play a huge role in the story, I still liked seeing the different backdrops. Actually, I would have liked for those locations to have been more descriptive and predominant in the telling of the story, but I concede because it wasn’t actually important to the plot.
And speaking of the plot, I really liked it. Yeah, I know its a bit cliched for a m/m historical…the I-want-to-be-with-men-and-my-wife-approves trope. But that was actually one of my favorite factors in the story! The relationship between Evander and Juliana and how there was never any betrayal. I will say that I found that whole scenario to be very predictable and not at all surprising, but I still really liked seeing the entire thing play out.
There was A LOT of sex! Evander and Benedict get it on pretty early in the story and its totally hot! Wow, those two together was just…umm. They were only a little kinky, but I think it was the intensity between them that got to me. On another note, I think this is the first time I’ve ever wanted the bedroom scene to turn into a menage, because that would have been HOT! Unfortunately, that would have never been appropriate for any of these characters and I’m happy to see it will never happen…
I really liked the simplicity, but I think it may have been just a bit too simple. I think there were plenty of places where the story could have been expanded, made a little more angsty. Shared a little more about Benedict’s work. Maybe add a little bit of mystery. But no, its all sweet, romance and the only conflict is Juliana…and she’s not even a real conflict at all.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
I really liked this story…
I really liked how the story was separated into parts designating Benedict’s vs. Evander’s POV. It starts off with the large, beginning portion of the story being told entirely from Benedict’s POV, which left me wondering all about what Evander was really thinking; I wasn’t sure how he really felt for Benedict. Was possessing Benedict just a goal? Another notch on his bedpost? Or did he really feel something for Benedict. Oh he felt for him alright! I’m not sure how realistic Evander’s I-always-knew-we-would-be-together-one-day speech was, but I still loved that scene and his admission.
I really liked the setting. From London, England to Cairo, Egypt to Paris, France. Although, the setting doesn’t play a huge role in the story, I still liked seeing the different backdrops. Actually, I would have liked for those locations to have been more descriptive and predominant in the telling of the story, but I concede because it wasn’t actually important to the plot.
And speaking of the plot, I really liked it. Yeah, I know its a bit cliched for a m/m historical…the I-want-to-be-with-men-and-my-wife-approves trope. But that was actually one of my favorite factors in the story! The relationship between Evander and Juliana and how there was never any betrayal. I will say that I found that whole scenario to be very predictable and not at all surprising, but I still really liked seeing the entire thing play out.
There was A LOT of sex! Evander and Benedict get it on pretty early in the story and its totally hot! Wow, those two together was just…umm. They were only a little kinky, but I think it was the intensity between them that got to me. On another note, I think this is the first time I’ve ever wanted the bedroom scene to turn into a menage, because that would have been HOT! Unfortunately, that would have never been appropriate for any of these characters and I’m happy to see it will never happen…
I really liked the simplicity, but I think it may have been just a bit too simple. I think there were plenty of places where the story could have been expanded, made a little more angsty. Shared a little more about Benedict’s work. Maybe add a little bit of mystery. But no, its all sweet, romance and the only conflict is Juliana…and she’s not even a real conflict at all.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
April 20, 2014
"I can always tell those marked by obsession. I truly pity those who live without it. I adore obsessions, don't you? They really are the only things worth living for."
Egyptology and m/m romance. Can we say SCORE!
I love a good historical gay romance and Objects Of His Obsession fit the bill to the letter. Moreover, there's no genderfail. The female characters are just as fully actualized as the heroes. They aren't treated as disposable or the stereotyped "evil bitch who stands in the way of TWU WUV". I especially loved Juliana, Evander's wife. The above quote is hers, and she has a few interesting secrets of her own.
Benedict Yates is the younger son of a well-to-do family who chose Egyptology as his life's work. There were some excellent scenes depicting Egyptology in the 19th century. He's also attracted to men, and realizes that such attractions are frought with peril which means potential, permanent bachelorhood. Until he's called in by the handsome and wealthy Evander St. John, Duke of Casterwell, a man used to having his way, to catalog his grandfather's vast collection of Egyptian artifacts.
Evander and Benedict were well-crafted and while definitely alpha, their relationship was finely balanced. Both were strong and stubborn. They were also that irresistable force and immovable object who needed each other in an era where such attractions were punishable by law. The author doesn't gloss over the inherent dangers of same-sex love in Victorian England. She also had a wonderful eye for the historical details. There were no jarring modern phrases or anachronisms. My only downside was the constant use of "turquoise" to describe Evander's eyes. It was a wee bit repetitive. Still, the passion burned very hot between these two men. They were truly obsessed with each other as well as with the mysteries of ancient Egypt. The sex scenes were very erotic.
I certainly hope Jae T. Jaggart plans to write more in this vein.
Egyptology and m/m romance. Can we say SCORE!
I love a good historical gay romance and Objects Of His Obsession fit the bill to the letter. Moreover, there's no genderfail. The female characters are just as fully actualized as the heroes. They aren't treated as disposable or the stereotyped "evil bitch who stands in the way of TWU WUV". I especially loved Juliana, Evander's wife. The above quote is hers, and she has a few interesting secrets of her own.
Benedict Yates is the younger son of a well-to-do family who chose Egyptology as his life's work. There were some excellent scenes depicting Egyptology in the 19th century. He's also attracted to men, and realizes that such attractions are frought with peril which means potential, permanent bachelorhood. Until he's called in by the handsome and wealthy Evander St. John, Duke of Casterwell, a man used to having his way, to catalog his grandfather's vast collection of Egyptian artifacts.
Evander and Benedict were well-crafted and while definitely alpha, their relationship was finely balanced. Both were strong and stubborn. They were also that irresistable force and immovable object who needed each other in an era where such attractions were punishable by law. The author doesn't gloss over the inherent dangers of same-sex love in Victorian England. She also had a wonderful eye for the historical details. There were no jarring modern phrases or anachronisms. My only downside was the constant use of "turquoise" to describe Evander's eyes. It was a wee bit repetitive. Still, the passion burned very hot between these two men. They were truly obsessed with each other as well as with the mysteries of ancient Egypt. The sex scenes were very erotic.
I certainly hope Jae T. Jaggart plans to write more in this vein.
April 23, 2014
I got this book form the author for free in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this with some interest and a little intrepidation. the plot sounded interesting but I have read two different types of historical novels one that is so mannered and like a Jane Austen novel (bleah) and those where the author lets the story drive and not the manners of the time. even though there is some high class manners it isn't a manners novel but definitely a plot driven story where people have understandable motive even if that doesn't always mean that the motives are rational.
Benedict Yeats is the third son of aristocracy and an archeologist and Egyptologist. He has very sheltered views or morality but an ambition to be a leading Egyptologist. Evander St. John is the Duke of Casterwell. a person who took his family inheritance and turned it into impressive wealth. Benedict is on leave from a dig in Egypt and back in England when they meet and he get invited to Casterwell's country house for a weekend party and an extended stay after to catalog the Casterwell Egyptian artifacts with an eye for what should be donated to museums. Evander's grandfather was an amateur Egyptologist and of the raider type of archeology taking everything to his own estate for his private pleasure.
True to a romance story they get together. there is always miscommunication and complications to work through. Also this is not long after the Oscar Wilde trials so being a Homosexual in England was Illegal and fraught with danger.
The story was engaging and drove me to finishing it. My major problem was I wanted to read more when the story ended.
Highly recommended even if like me you don't always like historical novels.
I went into this with some interest and a little intrepidation. the plot sounded interesting but I have read two different types of historical novels one that is so mannered and like a Jane Austen novel (bleah) and those where the author lets the story drive and not the manners of the time. even though there is some high class manners it isn't a manners novel but definitely a plot driven story where people have understandable motive even if that doesn't always mean that the motives are rational.
Benedict Yeats is the third son of aristocracy and an archeologist and Egyptologist. He has very sheltered views or morality but an ambition to be a leading Egyptologist. Evander St. John is the Duke of Casterwell. a person who took his family inheritance and turned it into impressive wealth. Benedict is on leave from a dig in Egypt and back in England when they meet and he get invited to Casterwell's country house for a weekend party and an extended stay after to catalog the Casterwell Egyptian artifacts with an eye for what should be donated to museums. Evander's grandfather was an amateur Egyptologist and of the raider type of archeology taking everything to his own estate for his private pleasure.
True to a romance story they get together. there is always miscommunication and complications to work through. Also this is not long after the Oscar Wilde trials so being a Homosexual in England was Illegal and fraught with danger.
The story was engaging and drove me to finishing it. My major problem was I wanted to read more when the story ended.
Highly recommended even if like me you don't always like historical novels.
August 26, 2016
: In this story, Lord Benedict Yeats is a youngest son with a title but his true interest, his obsession, lies with antiquities. He has spent years working with Hamer, a famous Egyptologist, and he is making a name for himself as an expert. When he is back in Kent, England he is drawn to the other obsession in his life, the beautiful Evander St. John, Duke of Casterwell. Benedict longs for him, dreams of him and sometimes gets tongue-tied and awkward around him. Regardless, when the Duke issues an invitation to a house party that includes the inducement of cataloging the incredible antiques of the Duke’s collection, well, Benedict is a goner.
The Duke is married to an amazingly beautiful, intelligent woman named Juliana and they have two children. Juliana is not a shy, retiring violet – I liked her immensely. I had a cringing moment when I realized Evander was married because cheating and affairs really aren’t my favorite reading. I am glad I stuck with this story because Juliana rocks. Juliana has a lover of her own and Evander and Juliana have an open sort of marriage.
When Benedict is first faced with the Duke at the party, he can’t stop staring. When he is shown the antiques by the Duke, he is jolted. And when the Duke kisses him in the antiquity hall, he is just floored. This is what he’s been waiting for, what he’s wanted. This is his first time, sex with Evander, and I loved his attitude after finally having this experience.
“They had just committed an illegal act. …Illegal or t, condemned by society or not, it was an act he intended to commit, over and over again, in the future.” Good for you, Benedict. Evander is good to him in bed, even as he is telling Benedicts, “Relax. This will be good, I promise you. Better than good, wonderful.” I couldn’t help thinking, how do you know this Evander? Have you had a man take you?
As Benedict and Evander face their first morning after together, Benedict is thoughtful and serious, while Evander puts on his Duke face and is somewhat of a jerk, making comments that Benedict wonders if it was supposed to “Make him feel foolishly provincial, overcautious?” Ahh, Ben. Evander is icy, cold and uninterested and Benedict can’t stand it. He has to leave. And at this point he is confronted by the lovely Juliana, who uses his own promise to keep him there. She’s clever, that woman. However, it is this same cleverness, intelligence and just plain liking her that causes Benedict to realize no matter that Evander and Juliana each take lovers, it is against Benedict’s code of behavior to continue with Evander. The fact that Evander continues to brush him off just strengthens this feeling.
What Evander wants, Evander gets but this time he’s faced with someone strong. Will Evander be able to put aside that cold, icy demeanor, face the demons of his past and find a way to get to Benedict? I loved the story, even as Evander made mistakes. When he goes to confront Ben, to demand to know what was said to Juliana, I realized – the Duke doesn’t know Ben at all, to even consider he would do anything to harm her. Ridiculous!
The private face of Juliana and Evander is very different, but they love each other. There are strong characters here who come across as people you’d want to know. Juliana and Evander, fiercely protective and supportive of each other, you want them to be happy. Benedict, as well, I wanted to smack some sense into Evander, then wanted them to talk, then wanted to hug him. This is a book where nothing huge happens, no giant angsty turns, but characters following a maze working towards what they want most.
It is certainly no secret that I am a huge fan of historical romance, particularly M/M historical romance. That being said, it is difficult at times to make the story believable, mainly due to the relationship being illegal and so needing to remain completely hidden. In Obsessions, I thought the way it was handled was perfect, believable and a lovely HEA.
The Duke is married to an amazingly beautiful, intelligent woman named Juliana and they have two children. Juliana is not a shy, retiring violet – I liked her immensely. I had a cringing moment when I realized Evander was married because cheating and affairs really aren’t my favorite reading. I am glad I stuck with this story because Juliana rocks. Juliana has a lover of her own and Evander and Juliana have an open sort of marriage.
When Benedict is first faced with the Duke at the party, he can’t stop staring. When he is shown the antiques by the Duke, he is jolted. And when the Duke kisses him in the antiquity hall, he is just floored. This is what he’s been waiting for, what he’s wanted. This is his first time, sex with Evander, and I loved his attitude after finally having this experience.
“They had just committed an illegal act. …Illegal or t, condemned by society or not, it was an act he intended to commit, over and over again, in the future.” Good for you, Benedict. Evander is good to him in bed, even as he is telling Benedicts, “Relax. This will be good, I promise you. Better than good, wonderful.” I couldn’t help thinking, how do you know this Evander? Have you had a man take you?
As Benedict and Evander face their first morning after together, Benedict is thoughtful and serious, while Evander puts on his Duke face and is somewhat of a jerk, making comments that Benedict wonders if it was supposed to “Make him feel foolishly provincial, overcautious?” Ahh, Ben. Evander is icy, cold and uninterested and Benedict can’t stand it. He has to leave. And at this point he is confronted by the lovely Juliana, who uses his own promise to keep him there. She’s clever, that woman. However, it is this same cleverness, intelligence and just plain liking her that causes Benedict to realize no matter that Evander and Juliana each take lovers, it is against Benedict’s code of behavior to continue with Evander. The fact that Evander continues to brush him off just strengthens this feeling.
What Evander wants, Evander gets but this time he’s faced with someone strong. Will Evander be able to put aside that cold, icy demeanor, face the demons of his past and find a way to get to Benedict? I loved the story, even as Evander made mistakes. When he goes to confront Ben, to demand to know what was said to Juliana, I realized – the Duke doesn’t know Ben at all, to even consider he would do anything to harm her. Ridiculous!
The private face of Juliana and Evander is very different, but they love each other. There are strong characters here who come across as people you’d want to know. Juliana and Evander, fiercely protective and supportive of each other, you want them to be happy. Benedict, as well, I wanted to smack some sense into Evander, then wanted them to talk, then wanted to hug him. This is a book where nothing huge happens, no giant angsty turns, but characters following a maze working towards what they want most.
It is certainly no secret that I am a huge fan of historical romance, particularly M/M historical romance. That being said, it is difficult at times to make the story believable, mainly due to the relationship being illegal and so needing to remain completely hidden. In Obsessions, I thought the way it was handled was perfect, believable and a lovely HEA.
July 20, 2014
I received a copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't Buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this historical M/M romance. It was well-written with lots of angst and tension. It was between 4/4.5 stars for me.
Lord Benedict Yates is the youngest son of his family--which means he's not entailed to his family's wealth. He must make his own way, and he does this well-as an Egyptologist. He has spent four years as second-in-command on an illustrious dig group. But, he has his own aspirations to lead his own team--and some leads on whereabouts of an undiscovered tomb. He returns to London to meet potential investors. While there he is invited to the country estate of Evander St. John, the Duke of Casterwell, in order to catalog the collection of Egyptian artifacts amassed by Evander's tomb plundering grandfather.
This invitation poses a small problem for Ben. See, Ben and Evander had been acquaintance at Oxford. What Evander doesn't realize (perhaps) is that Ben was attracted to him. Even the years that have passed haven't diminished the excitement Ben feels gazing upon the very wealthy, very married, Evander.
The funny thing Ben learns (throughout) is that appearances are simply that--and the mystery behind Evander's seemingly perfect marriage is this: Evander prefers men. He always has. And, his wife Juliana has her own lover--thus, Evander attempts to woo Ben into a liaison. Ben is overwhelmed, and appalled. He really likes Evander's wife, and isn't the kind of man to be deceitful--but he does succumb. It is his first homosexual experience, and it solidifies Ben's belief that he is, indeed, "a man who prefers men."
Ben roils with his guilt over deception and also his confirmed sexual preference. It's too much to deal with, and he breaks off his visit to Evander's home early--returning to Egypt months before necessary--after one final tryst with Evander. He's hoping to forget Evander, but he can't. Most particularly when Evander is revealed to be one of the sponsors who are lined up to support his independent dig.
Now, Ben has even more qualms of conscience. And Evander practically pines for the man he knew at Uni would be the one he wanted--for more than a casual lover. There are many fits and starts in this relationship--all of which are smoothed over by Julianna. In fact, it is catching the beautiful Julianna with her lover that forces Ben to re-evaluate the nature of marriage, family and duty. And, perhaps more importantly, to re-evaluate his self-imposed separation from Evander.
In the end, Ben and Evander come to each other openly and honestly--within the bounds of Evander's marriage and Ben's work. The arrangement seems to be mutually equitable, and positive, for all parties.
I was a bit put-off by the "affair" episodes, and had long suspected Julianna's lover was an unsuitable match--which allowed Evander his sexual freedom undercover of society's disapproving eyes. Perhaps that was provincial of me--but the big reveal of Julianna's dalliances, and her approval of Ben for Evander, allowed for that anxiety to recede.
It was a well-told story with steaming smexytimes and interesting characters. The historical context was well-written, and (mostly, I felt) the dialogue stayed to period. Being that I wanted to be an archeologist as a kid, I found the Egyptology part fascinating, and lamented the small role it played in the plot. (Again, MY problem!)
I really liked this historical M/M romance. It was well-written with lots of angst and tension. It was between 4/4.5 stars for me.
Lord Benedict Yates is the youngest son of his family--which means he's not entailed to his family's wealth. He must make his own way, and he does this well-as an Egyptologist. He has spent four years as second-in-command on an illustrious dig group. But, he has his own aspirations to lead his own team--and some leads on whereabouts of an undiscovered tomb. He returns to London to meet potential investors. While there he is invited to the country estate of Evander St. John, the Duke of Casterwell, in order to catalog the collection of Egyptian artifacts amassed by Evander's tomb plundering grandfather.
This invitation poses a small problem for Ben. See, Ben and Evander had been acquaintance at Oxford. What Evander doesn't realize (perhaps) is that Ben was attracted to him. Even the years that have passed haven't diminished the excitement Ben feels gazing upon the very wealthy, very married, Evander.
The funny thing Ben learns (throughout) is that appearances are simply that--and the mystery behind Evander's seemingly perfect marriage is this: Evander prefers men. He always has. And, his wife Juliana has her own lover--thus, Evander attempts to woo Ben into a liaison. Ben is overwhelmed, and appalled. He really likes Evander's wife, and isn't the kind of man to be deceitful--but he does succumb. It is his first homosexual experience, and it solidifies Ben's belief that he is, indeed, "a man who prefers men."
Ben roils with his guilt over deception and also his confirmed sexual preference. It's too much to deal with, and he breaks off his visit to Evander's home early--returning to Egypt months before necessary--after one final tryst with Evander. He's hoping to forget Evander, but he can't. Most particularly when Evander is revealed to be one of the sponsors who are lined up to support his independent dig.
Now, Ben has even more qualms of conscience. And Evander practically pines for the man he knew at Uni would be the one he wanted--for more than a casual lover. There are many fits and starts in this relationship--all of which are smoothed over by Julianna. In fact, it is catching the beautiful Julianna with her lover that forces Ben to re-evaluate the nature of marriage, family and duty. And, perhaps more importantly, to re-evaluate his self-imposed separation from Evander.
In the end, Ben and Evander come to each other openly and honestly--within the bounds of Evander's marriage and Ben's work. The arrangement seems to be mutually equitable, and positive, for all parties.
I was a bit put-off by the "affair" episodes, and had long suspected Julianna's lover was an unsuitable match--which allowed Evander his sexual freedom undercover of society's disapproving eyes. Perhaps that was provincial of me--but the big reveal of Julianna's dalliances, and her approval of Ben for Evander, allowed for that anxiety to recede.
It was a well-told story with steaming smexytimes and interesting characters. The historical context was well-written, and (mostly, I felt) the dialogue stayed to period. Being that I wanted to be an archeologist as a kid, I found the Egyptology part fascinating, and lamented the small role it played in the plot. (Again, MY problem!)
May 22, 2015
Oh, man, I liked this book quite a bit.
Here we have the gorgeous Evander St. John, Duke of Casterwell and his equally gorgeous wife Julianna. They are like, totally, an A-list couple -- the Posh and Becks of their day. Just two beautiful, cool people that other people want to be around and they have awesome parties and two great kids and a successful loving marriage.
And then we have Benedict Yeats, Egyptologist who has been madly in love/lust with Evander since they were at school together (where Evander was the coolest guy at their school).
Ben is invited to the St. John's country home to enjoy a house party and stay after everyone else is gone to catalog a room full of legendary Egyptian antiquities acquired by Evander's grandfather. Of course Ben is thrilled to have the chance to work with such a famed collection, but he is miserable to be so close to the one person he desperately wants but can't have because he is happily married.
Or not.
Because Evander seduces Ben quite thoroughly. Aghast Ben realizes that Evander likes men and even better likes him. But what about Julianna and his marriage? Ben may be in love but he is no home wrecker!
Like I said, totally enjoyed this one. Evander and Ben were two really great characters to get to know. Like Ben, I loved Evander. He seduced me on the page as well. The author did a great job of making you understand how charismatic and handsome Evander is and why he seems to be a sun that so many people orbit around. And Ben's quieter, more internal intensity made a great foil for Evander. Best of all the two of them together felt really romantic and very sexy.
But what about Julianna? I also liked her. She was a fab character who was written very smartly. As a reader I immediately copped to what was going on. Poor Ben was much slower on the uptake. But we needed to get our angst/conflict from somewhere and as a place to hang the conflict on, Ben's reluctance to be a side piece was a good one.
I also liked that we got to go on an dig in Egypt with Ben. That was an unexpected bonus.
Good book!
Here we have the gorgeous Evander St. John, Duke of Casterwell and his equally gorgeous wife Julianna. They are like, totally, an A-list couple -- the Posh and Becks of their day. Just two beautiful, cool people that other people want to be around and they have awesome parties and two great kids and a successful loving marriage.
And then we have Benedict Yeats, Egyptologist who has been madly in love/lust with Evander since they were at school together (where Evander was the coolest guy at their school).
Ben is invited to the St. John's country home to enjoy a house party and stay after everyone else is gone to catalog a room full of legendary Egyptian antiquities acquired by Evander's grandfather. Of course Ben is thrilled to have the chance to work with such a famed collection, but he is miserable to be so close to the one person he desperately wants but can't have because he is happily married.
Or not.
Because Evander seduces Ben quite thoroughly. Aghast Ben realizes that Evander likes men and even better likes him. But what about Julianna and his marriage? Ben may be in love but he is no home wrecker!
Like I said, totally enjoyed this one. Evander and Ben were two really great characters to get to know. Like Ben, I loved Evander. He seduced me on the page as well. The author did a great job of making you understand how charismatic and handsome Evander is and why he seems to be a sun that so many people orbit around. And Ben's quieter, more internal intensity made a great foil for Evander. Best of all the two of them together felt really romantic and very sexy.
But what about Julianna? I also liked her. She was a fab character who was written very smartly. As a reader I immediately copped to what was going on. Poor Ben was much slower on the uptake. But we needed to get our angst/conflict from somewhere and as a place to hang the conflict on, Ben's reluctance to be a side piece was a good one.
I also liked that we got to go on an dig in Egypt with Ben. That was an unexpected bonus.
Good book!
September 5, 2017
Oh how I love a good historical! This was so well done. I know others thought the writing was choppy but to me that just reflected the sort of stream of consciousness of the delicious characters, Benedict and Evander. Benedict is an Egyptologist just recently back from a dig where a major discovery was highlighted. Evander is a creature of London society. Benedict and Evander know each other slightly though Benedict has been obsessed with Evander for years. But Evander is married with two children... At one of those country parties that are frequently found in historicals that take place during this period in England, Benedict and Evander find.... common ground :). I did wonder about the use of some of the words during this time period. Don't know if I usually see the word semen. Usually I find writers use words like spendings or something. But that aside, this was a character driven romance that I enjoyed thoroughly. This is a new to me author that I'll now add to my list of need to buy books.
PS - I had initially rated this book as 4 stars but found myself after I'd finished the book, re-reading passages and thinking about Evander and Benedict. Whenever I do that, then I know it's truly a 5 star read.
PS - I had initially rated this book as 4 stars but found myself after I'd finished the book, re-reading passages and thinking about Evander and Benedict. Whenever I do that, then I know it's truly a 5 star read.
October 30, 2024
An Unconventional Arrangements!
A love for antiquities, an unconventional family and a meaningful glance, all contribute to a turn of the century romance between Lord Benedict & His Grace Evander. This tale is light on plot and heavy on sexy times. The premise is a bit of fantasy and very modern for the late 19th century. As for the MCs, I thought the connection was more lust than love. The author didn't quite make the connection. Overall, an interesting read.
A love for antiquities, an unconventional family and a meaningful glance, all contribute to a turn of the century romance between Lord Benedict & His Grace Evander. This tale is light on plot and heavy on sexy times. The premise is a bit of fantasy and very modern for the late 19th century. As for the MCs, I thought the connection was more lust than love. The author didn't quite make the connection. Overall, an interesting read.
October 16, 2014
I'm rarely a fan of Historical Romances, but this book came highly recommended by a friend who I trust.
I am so glad I took a chance on this book!
I actually cried a little. Plus I laughed and fell in love with all the characters - even some I didn't think I could love.
The historical setting was so beautifully written.
This is a book to savor.
I am so glad I took a chance on this book!
I actually cried a little. Plus I laughed and fell in love with all the characters - even some I didn't think I could love.
The historical setting was so beautifully written.
This is a book to savor.
April 14, 2014
This story grabbed me right from the beginning. You felt the attraction, the unspoken thoughts, the obsessiveness for each other. It was illegal & dangerous for same sex relationships and I think Jae has written a good book with a great romance for the times. 4.5 starts
July 25, 2014
I received Object of His Obsession from the author through the M/M Romance Group’s Don’t Buy My Love program for an honest review. The main characters in this story are Lord Benedict Yeats, an up and coming Egyptologist, and Evander St. John, Duke of Casterwell.
July 27, 2014
I received a free copy of this book through the Don't Buy My Love programme on goodreads in return for an honest review.
This is a 2.5 for me.
I was looking forward to this story. I like historicals and I love the archaeology, age of exploration sort of setting.
What works in this book is a good plotline. The story is simple and clean and well executed, without too many unnecessary diversions or threads. Benedict is the younger son of a peer and Evander, the other MC is a peer. Benedict’s two obsessions are Egyptology and Evander, and he gets to experience both in a stay in the latter’s country house, and from there progresses the remainder of the story.
Evander is clearly the more experienced and the more confident in many aspects. Ben however is a virgin when it comes to other men, and has a very traditional sense of honour and doing the right thing. And to him, loving another man and a married one at that doesn't completely reconcile with the right things, even though his body wants just that.
The sex scenes are well done, charged and evocative of the passion both clearly feel. Those more than anything tell us all about the two MCs. Evander always confident, cool, self-assured, commanding, rarely out of depth, and Ben, full of hidden depths that he himself is not aware of, at times awkward, but so desirous of his obsession.
The rest of the plot elements work well too - Juliana, her lover, Ben’s work – all these elements are neatly handled and wrapped up. Evander is well-characterised. He’s every inch your historical romance hero. Ben comes across reasonably well too.
The pacing is good. all though, I was eager to know what would happen next, and could have easily read it in one sitting.
My big issue that pulls this down to a 2.5 – the writing.
It had me almost frustrated at times!! The editing seems non-existent. The sentences are choppy, like disjointed thoughts, instead of storytelling sentences. If that were the style all through it would have worked, but it’s not. In addition, the sentences are incomplete in some places with words just handing in the air.
An example: The ladies had long since retired, the gentlemen having settled in to the massive informal library come games room with cigars, port and whisky. Some had called it a night. A few stragglers were drunkenly playing cards. Billiards.
Or
He chose the safe option. Just stood in the opened double doorway ...
The POVs keep switching. One moment, it’s Benedict’s POV. The next sentence Evander’s. I had difficulty keeping up, especially as later towards the end, both men were beginning to sound alike.
The descriptions were annoying – Evander’s eyes are turquoise, and his skin is pale olive, Benedict’s eyes are honey coloured, and his torso is muscled, Juliana’s hair is golden, and so on. We are told all this multiple times. There are also mentions of plum coloured heads. It gets repetitive and unnecessary.
I also don’t get if the method of conception is actually possible? But that’s just me. I could be wrong.
A little serious editing and this book would be good.
This is a 2.5 for me.
I was looking forward to this story. I like historicals and I love the archaeology, age of exploration sort of setting.
What works in this book is a good plotline. The story is simple and clean and well executed, without too many unnecessary diversions or threads. Benedict is the younger son of a peer and Evander, the other MC is a peer. Benedict’s two obsessions are Egyptology and Evander, and he gets to experience both in a stay in the latter’s country house, and from there progresses the remainder of the story.
Evander is clearly the more experienced and the more confident in many aspects. Ben however is a virgin when it comes to other men, and has a very traditional sense of honour and doing the right thing. And to him, loving another man and a married one at that doesn't completely reconcile with the right things, even though his body wants just that.
The sex scenes are well done, charged and evocative of the passion both clearly feel. Those more than anything tell us all about the two MCs. Evander always confident, cool, self-assured, commanding, rarely out of depth, and Ben, full of hidden depths that he himself is not aware of, at times awkward, but so desirous of his obsession.
The rest of the plot elements work well too - Juliana, her lover, Ben’s work – all these elements are neatly handled and wrapped up. Evander is well-characterised. He’s every inch your historical romance hero. Ben comes across reasonably well too.
The pacing is good. all though, I was eager to know what would happen next, and could have easily read it in one sitting.
My big issue that pulls this down to a 2.5 – the writing.
It had me almost frustrated at times!! The editing seems non-existent. The sentences are choppy, like disjointed thoughts, instead of storytelling sentences. If that were the style all through it would have worked, but it’s not. In addition, the sentences are incomplete in some places with words just handing in the air.
An example: The ladies had long since retired, the gentlemen having settled in to the massive informal library come games room with cigars, port and whisky. Some had called it a night. A few stragglers were drunkenly playing cards. Billiards.
Or
He chose the safe option. Just stood in the opened double doorway ...
The POVs keep switching. One moment, it’s Benedict’s POV. The next sentence Evander’s. I had difficulty keeping up, especially as later towards the end, both men were beginning to sound alike.
The descriptions were annoying – Evander’s eyes are turquoise, and his skin is pale olive, Benedict’s eyes are honey coloured, and his torso is muscled, Juliana’s hair is golden, and so on. We are told all this multiple times. There are also mentions of plum coloured heads. It gets repetitive and unnecessary.
I also don’t get if the method of conception is actually possible? But that’s just me. I could be wrong.
A little serious editing and this book would be good.
September 25, 2014
To forewarn and fool anyone reading this, I was determined to DNF at 4%. The writing and imagination were dreadful, clumsy tools in service of another British country house weekend. I persevered through descriptions of arrogant, aristocratic, commanding, handsome, sardonic and dark and handsome. One object of obsession was obvious and had all the originality of a determined 8th-grader, nailing some Victorian fantasy. The observer and beta MC in this M/M concoction is Benedict, son of a mere Earl, and the Alpha paragon (who has been his sexual obsession since college) is a married 26-year-old Duke, with a gorgeous wife. They have two adored children. ... Benedict is our primary narrator, an up-and-coming Egyptologist, and his obsession, who sheds his pants with catlike grace, is his Grace, Duke of Casterwell. The Duke's country house is crammed full of Egyptian objects, stolen from Egypt back when that was called "collecting."
Things happen. There are two sex scenes early on establishing that both of the guys like sex and that I can read a dozen or 20 pages of description without having any clear idea what position these guys are in, but we know it's gotta be illegal in England at that time. (By this point, I was so looking forward to the DNF point but the cat was enjoying my lap, so I read on.)
Benedict is looking over the huge collection of Egyptian loot with a view to organizing it for the many-splendored Duke. Oh! The Duke is named Evander.
On a trip to/from the Duke's bedroom, Benedict and his conscience encounter Julianna the beauteous Duchess. Benedict has so many problems now his obsession with archeology and it's claim on his time, his first m/m sexual encounters and now he's overcome by moral guilt for having sex with a married man. At this point the story seems to come alive for me. It's got a plot and a splendid lady who I took to at once. Julianna spiced it up for me.
From this point, the review is over. The story continues but you know all the problems and you must realize that the sardonic, astonishingly intelligent and totally built Duke wants Benedict and Benedict wants him. They take a while to work through the problems you can imagine: Benedict is in Egypt mostly and sardonic dukes have trouble expressing vulnerability. Benedict is notable for having more thoughts than actual spoken words, and we all know where that gets us.
I give the book 3.5 stars, but I don't want anyone to think it's a 4-star. I finished the story, and I'm none the worse for it, though it seemed that three different writers were at work: one wrote the opening chapters with the most clichés; a second introduced another character who seemed to have some answers and a bit of interesting plot, and a third wrote the final chapters where you'll be shocked by what happens.
Now to expose myself as a total hypocrite: I have another book by this author (vampires this time), and I do believe the cat will like it.
Things happen. There are two sex scenes early on establishing that both of the guys like sex and that I can read a dozen or 20 pages of description without having any clear idea what position these guys are in, but we know it's gotta be illegal in England at that time. (By this point, I was so looking forward to the DNF point but the cat was enjoying my lap, so I read on.)
Benedict is looking over the huge collection of Egyptian loot with a view to organizing it for the many-splendored Duke. Oh! The Duke is named Evander.
On a trip to/from the Duke's bedroom, Benedict and his conscience encounter Julianna the beauteous Duchess. Benedict has so many problems now his obsession with archeology and it's claim on his time, his first m/m sexual encounters and now he's overcome by moral guilt for having sex with a married man. At this point the story seems to come alive for me. It's got a plot and a splendid lady who I took to at once. Julianna spiced it up for me.
From this point, the review is over. The story continues but you know all the problems and you must realize that the sardonic, astonishingly intelligent and totally built Duke wants Benedict and Benedict wants him. They take a while to work through the problems you can imagine: Benedict is in Egypt mostly and sardonic dukes have trouble expressing vulnerability. Benedict is notable for having more thoughts than actual spoken words, and we all know where that gets us.
I give the book 3.5 stars, but I don't want anyone to think it's a 4-star. I finished the story, and I'm none the worse for it, though it seemed that three different writers were at work: one wrote the opening chapters with the most clichés; a second introduced another character who seemed to have some answers and a bit of interesting plot, and a third wrote the final chapters where you'll be shocked by what happens.
Now to expose myself as a total hypocrite: I have another book by this author (vampires this time), and I do believe the cat will like it.
September 13, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
-
Admittedly, I stepped a little out of my comfort zone with this historical fiction, but to the best of my knowledge, this book was very well researched. I particularly enjoyed the way information was woven into the story in bits and pieces rather than dumped on the reader. The characters, locale, and descriptive language fitted in well with the period and set the tone of a well crafted story.
I tend to be wary of illicit affairs, but in the context of this story, I believe the subject was handled very well. If you share my sentiments, do not panic, all will be revealed in time. So, while some might find it unsettling, it doesn't detract from the story. Rather, it adds another layer of intrigue.
Now, to see Evander through Benedict's eyes was… intense. A direct result of the fact that Benedict was NOT submissive. He fights against Evander just as passionately as he obsesses over him. Evander appears to be a pushy, egoistical, and self entitled ass at first glance, but that's nothing more than the facade he wears for his societal image. He's really quite a sincere individual, especially given his wealth and status. That he had enough respect for his wife, Juliana, to not disclose the exact nature of their marriage, even if it meant risking his budding relationship with Benedict was a huge plus for me.
The story has its moments of wit, fun, and raw emotion. Half the time, I wanted to smack Benedict, and the other half, I wanted to hug him. The poor man had no idea how to deal with love. (And going about getting what he wants from Evander.) But in all honesty, as much as I enjoyed Benedict and Evander, I think I loved Juliana the most of all the characters.
Overall, I enjoyed the story quite a lot. Each encounter between Benedict and Evander was emotionally charged and explosive. The story is divided perfectly between their time together and apart as each character had their own life to live. All the characters were well developed and every plot point sufficiently addressed.
-
Admittedly, I stepped a little out of my comfort zone with this historical fiction, but to the best of my knowledge, this book was very well researched. I particularly enjoyed the way information was woven into the story in bits and pieces rather than dumped on the reader. The characters, locale, and descriptive language fitted in well with the period and set the tone of a well crafted story.
I tend to be wary of illicit affairs, but in the context of this story, I believe the subject was handled very well. If you share my sentiments, do not panic, all will be revealed in time. So, while some might find it unsettling, it doesn't detract from the story. Rather, it adds another layer of intrigue.
Now, to see Evander through Benedict's eyes was… intense. A direct result of the fact that Benedict was NOT submissive. He fights against Evander just as passionately as he obsesses over him. Evander appears to be a pushy, egoistical, and self entitled ass at first glance, but that's nothing more than the facade he wears for his societal image. He's really quite a sincere individual, especially given his wealth and status. That he had enough respect for his wife, Juliana, to not disclose the exact nature of their marriage, even if it meant risking his budding relationship with Benedict was a huge plus for me.
The story has its moments of wit, fun, and raw emotion. Half the time, I wanted to smack Benedict, and the other half, I wanted to hug him. The poor man had no idea how to deal with love. (And going about getting what he wants from Evander.) But in all honesty, as much as I enjoyed Benedict and Evander, I think I loved Juliana the most of all the characters.
Overall, I enjoyed the story quite a lot. Each encounter between Benedict and Evander was emotionally charged and explosive. The story is divided perfectly between their time together and apart as each character had their own life to live. All the characters were well developed and every plot point sufficiently addressed.
November 16, 2014
4 star review by Pamela-Mae
I really enjoyed this story of Evander and Benedict set among the rich lives of the wealthy and privileged, and the life of an Egyptian archaeologist. As an archaeologist, Benedict spends most of his life dealing with the dead rather than interacting with the living. As such, while he’s aware of his own sexual desires, he’s also incredibly naïve in many ways. This is understandable given that at the time this story is written, a relationship with another man is forbidden, illegal, and so dangerous to pursue.
His relationship with Evander explodes into life. But Evander is a married man with children. Despite the feelings unleashed by the encounter, Benedict’s innate ethics won’t permit him to be the cause of Evander betraying his wife Juliana. Even Evander’s insistence that his wife has a lover of her own, doesn’t persuade Benedict.
It takes some wrangling by Juliana, and the revelation of her lover’s identity for Benedict to accept Evander. Although by this time, I was ready to knock their heads together.
Thankfully they finally realised what was going on in each other’s minds.
I loved the glimpse into the lives of the very wealthy, and a reminder of how flippant they could be. Juliana’s revelation wasn’t a complete surprise to me, but I liked it for the roundness it brought to the story. The love scenes are hot, and extremely passionate. Not a conventional love story by any means, but an enjoyable one.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
I really enjoyed this story of Evander and Benedict set among the rich lives of the wealthy and privileged, and the life of an Egyptian archaeologist. As an archaeologist, Benedict spends most of his life dealing with the dead rather than interacting with the living. As such, while he’s aware of his own sexual desires, he’s also incredibly naïve in many ways. This is understandable given that at the time this story is written, a relationship with another man is forbidden, illegal, and so dangerous to pursue.
His relationship with Evander explodes into life. But Evander is a married man with children. Despite the feelings unleashed by the encounter, Benedict’s innate ethics won’t permit him to be the cause of Evander betraying his wife Juliana. Even Evander’s insistence that his wife has a lover of her own, doesn’t persuade Benedict.
It takes some wrangling by Juliana, and the revelation of her lover’s identity for Benedict to accept Evander. Although by this time, I was ready to knock their heads together.
Thankfully they finally realised what was going on in each other’s minds.
I loved the glimpse into the lives of the very wealthy, and a reminder of how flippant they could be. Juliana’s revelation wasn’t a complete surprise to me, but I liked it for the roundness it brought to the story. The love scenes are hot, and extremely passionate. Not a conventional love story by any means, but an enjoyable one.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
September 11, 2014
This was a wonderful read. The characters were amazing, and the story was delicious in so many ways. I enjoyed the character & relationship development.
It's sinfully sexy. Romantic in a not so conventional sort of way. The writing is beautiful and engaging.
It's set in England in the 1800's when Ben and Evander meet.
Ben is an Egypyltologist. His work is his love, his passion and one of his two obsessions; His other obsession has turquoise blue eyes and a beautiful olive skin. His name, Evander.
Evander is a Duke. A married one. Evander and his wife Juliana, have a very non conventional marriage. I enjoyed their relationship a lot. They genuinely love and care for each other, and it's so obvious. This is the reason why I could understand Ben's distrust.. At least in the beginning.
Ben is very insecure.. He tends to over analyse things and ends up either running away or putting up a wall to protect himself. He just doesn't seem to realize that Evander's not there to hurt him.
Evander is a very confident man. He knows what he wants and fights for it. From the moment he saw Ben he knew he wanted him and promised to himself that he'd get him, not just in his bed, but in his life.
At some point it was hard to tell who was the most obsessed of the two... Evander with Ben.. Or, Ben with Evander.
I really, really liked this.
It's sinfully sexy. Romantic in a not so conventional sort of way. The writing is beautiful and engaging.
It's set in England in the 1800's when Ben and Evander meet.
Ben is an Egypyltologist. His work is his love, his passion and one of his two obsessions; His other obsession has turquoise blue eyes and a beautiful olive skin. His name, Evander.
Evander is a Duke. A married one. Evander and his wife Juliana, have a very non conventional marriage. I enjoyed their relationship a lot. They genuinely love and care for each other, and it's so obvious. This is the reason why I could understand Ben's distrust.. At least in the beginning.
Ben is very insecure.. He tends to over analyse things and ends up either running away or putting up a wall to protect himself. He just doesn't seem to realize that Evander's not there to hurt him.
Evander is a very confident man. He knows what he wants and fights for it. From the moment he saw Ben he knew he wanted him and promised to himself that he'd get him, not just in his bed, but in his life.
At some point it was hard to tell who was the most obsessed of the two... Evander with Ben.. Or, Ben with Evander.
I really, really liked this.
March 16, 2014
I gave this wonderful story 4 stars because of the grammatical errors. Being a stickler for such things I just could not ignore them. (the enormity of the missing apostrophes from the possessives were too much, reading mans instead of man's; there instead of their; etc. interferes with a good reading session). That said, I totally enjoyed the book.
The story took place in England (the late 19th century) about a man, who after years of obsessing about a fellow peer, got him-but not the way he would have liked. The story took off from the start, not missing a beat in riveting reading until the end.
It seems it's the only historical m/m this author has written and it brings to notice that authors are not writing very much plain historical m/m these days. Fantasy, Paranormal, etc. are in bountiful abundance and I wonder why that is so. Does anyone have any clear insight why that may be? The few authors who have written some, I found I've already read. Jae T, are you going to write more of this genre?
The story took place in England (the late 19th century) about a man, who after years of obsessing about a fellow peer, got him-but not the way he would have liked. The story took off from the start, not missing a beat in riveting reading until the end.
It seems it's the only historical m/m this author has written and it brings to notice that authors are not writing very much plain historical m/m these days. Fantasy, Paranormal, etc. are in bountiful abundance and I wonder why that is so. Does anyone have any clear insight why that may be? The few authors who have written some, I found I've already read. Jae T, are you going to write more of this genre?
July 24, 2014
3.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program in the M/M Romance group.
I really wanted to like this one, I am a huge fan of mm historic romances. I think KJ Charles has spoiled me! This was good. I like both MC equally, I think it lacked plot wise, I like circumstances between Evander and his family, and Benedict and his work. I think cohesivelly it didn't work. I wanted them to probably venture to Benedict's setting for his own personal growth. I think Evander stole my heart a little bit, he had this image of something he wasn't. Truely, hopeless romantic should have been his title. Reading about him was interesting because of his family dynamics, it was a small shocker based on the time free of the story. Benedict's character was hot, I'm so happy he wasn't this geeky, little man, who was unsure sex wise. That man was a hot nerd and I loved him. Why 3.5 stars then, I felt like I had to put it together in my mind. I had to see it happening, it didn't mesh well page to page. I really enjoyed it though.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program in the M/M Romance group.
I really wanted to like this one, I am a huge fan of mm historic romances. I think KJ Charles has spoiled me! This was good. I like both MC equally, I think it lacked plot wise, I like circumstances between Evander and his family, and Benedict and his work. I think cohesivelly it didn't work. I wanted them to probably venture to Benedict's setting for his own personal growth. I think Evander stole my heart a little bit, he had this image of something he wasn't. Truely, hopeless romantic should have been his title. Reading about him was interesting because of his family dynamics, it was a small shocker based on the time free of the story. Benedict's character was hot, I'm so happy he wasn't this geeky, little man, who was unsure sex wise. That man was a hot nerd and I loved him. Why 3.5 stars then, I felt like I had to put it together in my mind. I had to see it happening, it didn't mesh well page to page. I really enjoyed it though.
February 6, 2015
One word: Delicious!
This was just a flat out enjoyable read; one of those books you can't wait to get back to.
While it does use some of the clichés of this genre, it uses them in different ways.
But most importantly, it is actually sexy and erotic – something so many m/m (especially Regency novels) fail at (at least beyond the first sexual encounter).
The chemistry between the two MCs just sizzled.
The story lagged a wee bit towards the end, and I thought one more tiny plot twist would have really worked, but it was still a fantastic read.
This was just a flat out enjoyable read; one of those books you can't wait to get back to.
While it does use some of the clichés of this genre, it uses them in different ways.
But most importantly, it is actually sexy and erotic – something so many m/m (especially Regency novels) fail at (at least beyond the first sexual encounter).
The chemistry between the two MCs just sizzled.
The story lagged a wee bit towards the end, and I thought one more tiny plot twist would have really worked, but it was still a fantastic read.
July 10, 2014
Insta-fave, as I expected. I loved everything about the plot summary so I'm very pleased and relieved not to be disappointed by the real thing. The chemistry between the leads was intense and wonderfully decadent to read. Their scenes just sizzled off the page. The featured ladies were fully fleshed out, with their own intriguing plot lines, which is a rarity in most cases in historical dramas.
July 21, 2014
Heartbreaking & Heartwarming!
An MM Historical absolutely worth reading!
An MM Historical absolutely worth reading!
May 7, 2015
3.75 stars.
July 23, 2014
~I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.~
4.5 stars
It's 1898 and Benedict Yeats has recently returned from Cairo, bumps into his crush and former school mate, the Duke of casterwell, Evader Casterwell, outside club. The Duke invites Benedict to a house party hosted by his wife and himself. Unable to decline such a invitation Benedict agrees. His obsession and attraction to the duke is depicted right off the bat and really explains the depth of his feeling and how badly he lusts after the duke. But the duke manages to surprise him and makes a move on him. There begins their affair.
The writing style isn't at all what I expected considering it's the 1800s. The characters sounded a bit too modernized for the time period. I don't usually like stories with cheaters but Juliana was a very likable as were Evander and Benedict. Juliana was a force to be wrecking with. I loved that she was guileless and relentless in the task she set for herself, especically when it involved Evander and Benedict.
The explosive chemistry and passion between the two was wonderful. I really felt the love and desperation the two had for each other. The sex scenes were pretty hot and I felt blush inducing. The revelation that Casterwell has an open relation with his wife was kind of surprising but at the same time not so surprising considering the time period and the fact that the act they were committing by entering into such a relationship could have made them a pariah in society or better yet endangered their lives and/or reputation.
It was interesting getting the emotion and thought from Benedict's standpoint and I was ectastic when I got to part two in the book and saw that the author also wrote in Evander's thoughts and emotion. Benedict's suffering after their first night together was very heart wrenching. The belief that he meant nothing to Evander was painful. But Evander's with his forcefulness and determined pursuit of Benedict was a joyous sight. I really liked that he didn't allow Benedict to refuse the advancement of their newly developing romantic relationship. I was literally jumping with joy when he made the move on Benedict to stay the week he promised. His revelation that he knew he would have Benedict since their eyes first met was really sweet.
4.5 stars
It's 1898 and Benedict Yeats has recently returned from Cairo, bumps into his crush and former school mate, the Duke of casterwell, Evader Casterwell, outside club. The Duke invites Benedict to a house party hosted by his wife and himself. Unable to decline such a invitation Benedict agrees. His obsession and attraction to the duke is depicted right off the bat and really explains the depth of his feeling and how badly he lusts after the duke. But the duke manages to surprise him and makes a move on him. There begins their affair.
The writing style isn't at all what I expected considering it's the 1800s. The characters sounded a bit too modernized for the time period. I don't usually like stories with cheaters but Juliana was a very likable as were Evander and Benedict. Juliana was a force to be wrecking with. I loved that she was guileless and relentless in the task she set for herself, especically when it involved Evander and Benedict.
The explosive chemistry and passion between the two was wonderful. I really felt the love and desperation the two had for each other. The sex scenes were pretty hot and I felt blush inducing. The revelation that Casterwell has an open relation with his wife was kind of surprising but at the same time not so surprising considering the time period and the fact that the act they were committing by entering into such a relationship could have made them a pariah in society or better yet endangered their lives and/or reputation.
It was interesting getting the emotion and thought from Benedict's standpoint and I was ectastic when I got to part two in the book and saw that the author also wrote in Evander's thoughts and emotion. Benedict's suffering after their first night together was very heart wrenching. The belief that he meant nothing to Evander was painful. But Evander's with his forcefulness and determined pursuit of Benedict was a joyous sight. I really liked that he didn't allow Benedict to refuse the advancement of their newly developing romantic relationship. I was literally jumping with joy when he made the move on Benedict to stay the week he promised. His revelation that he knew he would have Benedict since their eyes first met was really sweet.
June 2, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was rather disappointed in this book.
I had high expectations for it, since the pitch seemed interesting and I always had a soft spots for Egyptologists. But despite this, I almost dropped this book and had to drag myself throught it. What usually takes me a couple of hours to read took me almost one week.
What gave me that much trouble? The style in which this story was written. I can read a book only for the style of the author, to hear and feel the flow and rythm of the text. So the contrary is also possibe, that I would stop reading a book because of it. Here, the sentences were often unfinished, disjointed. Words were missing. It was also quite repetitive. I don't know if it is because the text was not edited, or a way to increase the feeling of Benedict's obsession, but anyway, it did not work for me. It really pulled me out of the story.
Concerning the characters, I really liked the female characters. The male ones are nice too, but I found Benedict at time inconsistent. Benedict has a lot of hangs-up and moral issues, which is understanding given his situation and the era his in living in. But from the story-telling, at several points, I feel that he lets them all go, that he finally surrenders, only later for them to come back in full force.
In the end, I'd say that this book was a good idea but poorly executed.
I was rather disappointed in this book.
I had high expectations for it, since the pitch seemed interesting and I always had a soft spots for Egyptologists. But despite this, I almost dropped this book and had to drag myself throught it. What usually takes me a couple of hours to read took me almost one week.
What gave me that much trouble? The style in which this story was written. I can read a book only for the style of the author, to hear and feel the flow and rythm of the text. So the contrary is also possibe, that I would stop reading a book because of it. Here, the sentences were often unfinished, disjointed. Words were missing. It was also quite repetitive. I don't know if it is because the text was not edited, or a way to increase the feeling of Benedict's obsession, but anyway, it did not work for me. It really pulled me out of the story.
Concerning the characters, I really liked the female characters. The male ones are nice too, but I found Benedict at time inconsistent. Benedict has a lot of hangs-up and moral issues, which is understanding given his situation and the era his in living in. But from the story-telling, at several points, I feel that he lets them all go, that he finally surrenders, only later for them to come back in full force.
In the end, I'd say that this book was a good idea but poorly executed.
July 24, 2014
A free copy of this book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Objects of His Obsession is an historical m/m romance set in the late 1890’s and takes place in England, France and a bit in Egypt. It is chock full of lush descriptions of locations, settings, and people and also extremely steamy sex scenes (quite a few). The MCs, Benedict, an Egyptologist and third son, and Evander, the very wealthy and married (although there are secrets to unravel here) Duke of Casterwell, advance and withdraw from each other throughout the book.
I found Objects to be a fast, entertaining read. I enjoyed the various settings and descriptions of the house parties and Benedict’s recollections of Egypt. I also really liked the strong and engaging female characters – mostly Juliana, Evander’s wife, and to a lesser extent (because she was not in the book as much), the journalist, Eliza Stark.
Unfortunately, I never felt all that connected to the lead characters. I also did not fully buy into Benedict’s on again/off again scruples about Evander being married. I think, for me, there was not enough time spent developing their characters and interaction/relationship.
A small nitpick that detracted somewhat from my reading experience – there were some missing words/punctuation and also some words were repeated frequently.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, but not as much as I would have if I cared more about the main the characters.
Objects of His Obsession is an historical m/m romance set in the late 1890’s and takes place in England, France and a bit in Egypt. It is chock full of lush descriptions of locations, settings, and people and also extremely steamy sex scenes (quite a few). The MCs, Benedict, an Egyptologist and third son, and Evander, the very wealthy and married (although there are secrets to unravel here) Duke of Casterwell, advance and withdraw from each other throughout the book.
I found Objects to be a fast, entertaining read. I enjoyed the various settings and descriptions of the house parties and Benedict’s recollections of Egypt. I also really liked the strong and engaging female characters – mostly Juliana, Evander’s wife, and to a lesser extent (because she was not in the book as much), the journalist, Eliza Stark.
Unfortunately, I never felt all that connected to the lead characters. I also did not fully buy into Benedict’s on again/off again scruples about Evander being married. I think, for me, there was not enough time spent developing their characters and interaction/relationship.
A small nitpick that detracted somewhat from my reading experience – there were some missing words/punctuation and also some words were repeated frequently.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, but not as much as I would have if I cared more about the main the characters.
August 21, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Objects of His Obsession is a enjoyable historical that covers a bit of a later time period than many I have read (late 1890s) and an interesting career for one of our MCs in archaeology. The title definitely sets the theme for the book, as Benedict truly has these twin passions of his career and Evander. Jaggert makes Benedict’s yearning quite palpable for the handsome Duke, and I could really feel the intensity of his obsession with the man. There is just such a pull that Benedict can not help himself once the man is within reach, even as his conscience struggles with the idea that Evander is married. For his part, Evander seems similarly obsessed with Benedict, determined to have him and unwilling to back down. He knows Benedict wants him badly and isn’t willing to let him throw the relationship away over unnecessary concerns about Juliana’s feelings. Just what kind of arrangement these two have and why is something that unfolds over the book, but it is clear that both these men want each other and badly.
b>Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Objects of His Obsession is a enjoyable historical that covers a bit of a later time period than many I have read (late 1890s) and an interesting career for one of our MCs in archaeology. The title definitely sets the theme for the book, as Benedict truly has these twin passions of his career and Evander. Jaggert makes Benedict’s yearning quite palpable for the handsome Duke, and I could really feel the intensity of his obsession with the man. There is just such a pull that Benedict can not help himself once the man is within reach, even as his conscience struggles with the idea that Evander is married. For his part, Evander seems similarly obsessed with Benedict, determined to have him and unwilling to back down. He knows Benedict wants him badly and isn’t willing to let him throw the relationship away over unnecessary concerns about Juliana’s feelings. Just what kind of arrangement these two have and why is something that unfolds over the book, but it is clear that both these men want each other and badly.
b>Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
April 10, 2018
This one has been on my TBR shelf for a long time, and I saved it till I was ready, and this past week I was finally in the mood and it hit the spot! Great backdrop between the stuffy London society and the heat and mystery of Egypt. Two interesting characters with great chemistry and some hidden surprises for each other. Ben has reservations about getting involved with a married man, and he wants to be more than a side piece. Evander is at times exactly what he seems, but at other times, happily more. Dependable and as much in Ben's thrall as Ben is in his. I loved the confirmation of the long ago connection between the two, would have liked more on that though. Also liked how Evander's wife wasn't the villain of the piece for a change!
Great HEA, great wrap up and just enjoyed this one very much!
Great HEA, great wrap up and just enjoyed this one very much!
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