A Gentleman Never Keeps Score by Cat Sebastian

A Gentleman Never Keeps Score (Seducing the Sedgwicks, #2)

by Cat Sebastian

If you haven’t read Cat Sebastian, what are you waiting for?”—Lorraine Heath, New York Times bestselling author

 Once beloved by London's fashionable elite, Hartley Sedgwick has become a recluse after a spate of salacious gossip exposed his most-private secrets. Rarely venturing from the house whose inheritance is a daily reminder of his downfall, he’s captivated by the exceedingly handsome man who seeks to rob him.

Since retiring from the boxing ring, Sam Fox has made his pub, The Bell, into a haven for those in his Free Black community. But when his best friend Kate implores him to find and destroy a scandalously revealing painting of her, he agrees. Sam would do anything to protect those he loves, even if it means stealing from a wealthy gentleman. But when he encounters Hartley, he soon finds himself wanting to steal more than just a painting from the lovely, lonely man—he wants to steal his heart.

Reviewed by Lynn on

4 of 5 stars

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As one of my go-to M/M authors, it's always a pleasure to pick up one of Cat Sebastian's novels and this second book in the Seducing The Sedgwicks is a welcome treat. Although we have previously met Hartley Sedgwick in It Takes Two To Tumble, this novel can be read as a standalone.

Hartley Sedgwick is like a prisoner in his own house; one he inherited from his godfather. Along with his inheritance came a souring of his reputation as rumours circulate about the circumstances surrounding his bequest. One evening after noticing a man loitering near his house, he decides to challenge the stranger...a meeting which changes the course of his future as they work together to right a wrong for differing reasons and an unexpected outcome.

Samuel Fox works hard running his pub in the East End of London. Working alongside his brother, he has done well after using his winnings as a boxer to secure his future. When his future sister-in-law asks for his help, he agrees to try to solve the issue on her behalf and leads him to a man he never would otherwise have met.

An unlikely pairing, yet Hartley and Sam are a convincing couple. Both struggle to be accepted in society, albeit for far differing reasons. Hartley comes across as slightly aloof, whereas Sam is caring and attentive. However, over time, Hartley explores his compassionate side as he becomes more comfortable in his surroundings and more importantly; his own skin.

Although the main focus is on Hartley and Sam, the secondary characters mainly Alf, Sadie, Kate and Nick are integral to the overall feel of the narrative. Unlikely friendships are forged to create an unconventional family of sorts.

As I've come to expect, the writing from Ms Sebastian is impeccable. Set during the Regency period, I'm always surprised by how the narrative unfolds making her one of my favourite historical romance writers. There's always an element of surprise and Hartley and Sam's unlikely friendship turned relationship certainly meets that expectation.

***arc generously received courtesy of Avon Impulse via Edelweiss+***

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 10 July, 2018: Finished reading
  • 10 July, 2018: Reviewed