Reviewed by Lynn on
Martin Easterbrook and Will Sedgwick are life-long friends although in recent times they've spent little time together. When Will learns of Martin's ill health, he whisks his dear friend away to Sussex, to care for him. During their time together as Martin struggles with consumption and Will battles his own addiction and PTSD. As time progresses, the pair become close, sharing a tenderness neither can avoid. However, their time together has to come to an end, as both men have obligations to fulfil until fate brings them back together.
As romances go, this is an exceedingly slow-burn but equally satisfying friends to lovers story. These two men, both dealing with their personal problems share tenderness and respect, at a time of mutual need. Both are acutely aware of their attraction to each other, but also wary of destroying the close link they've shared since they were small boys. Thankfully, they maintain a small network of family and acquaintances, sympathetic to their plight as the pair take tentative steps to take their relationship to a level neither thought possible.
Unlike the previous two novels in this series, I appreciated the simplicity of Will and Martin's story, which matches their personalities perfectly. Additionally, I liked catching-up with Ben and Hartley Sedgwick along with other likeable secondary characters. As someone who's read many of the author's other novels, I've huge respect for Ms Sebastian's writing and this novel is another fine example of a well-paced and written M/M historical romance.
***arc generously received courtesy of Avon Impulse via Edelweiss+***
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 21 June, 2020: Finished reading
- 21 June, 2020: Reviewed