What a Courtesan Wants: A BDSM Regency Erotic Romance

By this time, every person who knows me, knows I love Regency erotica by this author. She is writing a series about Gentlemen Courtesans and I loved the first book - but not half as much as I loved Aubrey's book - What a Courtesan Wants. This book showcased what Victoria Vale is so good at - the mix of character development with an interesting story and erotica that hits all the right spots. Reading this book was like getting caught in a room during one of Bill Nye, the Science Guy's experiments - all chemistry, all the time. Yes, you can tell I loved this book. The character of Aubrey, who is a man of color, is so very nicely painted in this book. He is a Master of BDSM, and his "keeper" (what they call the women who have hired the Gentlemen Courtesans) is a lovely widow who is a submissive. What always impresses me in Ms. Vale's books is that she treats the subject of BDSM the way it should be treated, with respect and with the knowledge that there is nothing at all wrong with kink...whether it is written from a Regency viewpoint or any other. I don't know how she does it, but she always manages to define the power exchange without really putting it into words, which allows the reader to FEEL what the participants are feeling. I will note that the copy I received was an ARC through Booksprout. But I've, as always, purchased the book also. This author is one I've been reading for over two years now. I haven't had reason to give her less than five stars on any of her books because she believes in putting 100% effort into her writing, and believes in the characters she writes about (and if you've read my reviews for long, you know I do not hesitate to give less than five stars if something is lacking). You will find no shrinking violets in Vale's books. And her books aren't meant to be read by shrinking violets either. When she develops her characters, she takes it a step farther than a lot of authors do...she reveals them down to the bone. After reading this book, I know what Aubrey was feeling every single second. And I also know that when he gets his HEA, I teared up. That's tough to get me to do when I'm reading erotica. Really tough...another feather in the cap of Ms. Victoria Vale. And now, she should march right back in her office, and write another...and another...and another - I am dying to meet the rest of the Courtesans, as well as anyone else that brilliant Vale brain can come up with

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ 💋💋💋 Exploding with passionate , steamy scenes that are both stunning and romantic. An excellent addition to this series. I’ve loved reading this series, not only is each book an individual story, but there is a back story of a gossip rag that is intent on ruining the Courtesans business. Aubrey is the Master in the courtesan stable , he has very specific tastes and aims to please in all those areas. Raising money to help raise his niece is him main reason for being a courtesan and he use to quite enjoy it , but recently his needs and desires have been changing. Lucy is the widow of an Earl , finally she’s needs something more in her life . Enter the courtesans. She’s a trained submissive and to her Aubrey is everything she’s looking for . After a few challenges the two realise they are having problems separating their feelings from personal to professional . Such a talented writer in Victoria, a wonderful book that gives excellent enjoyment and entertainment. Next one please! This story features strongly on BDSM issues. So if these offend then this isn’t for your. But honestly this is an excellent book. I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

I thought this was a spectacular romance. Fiery sparks, sweet feelings and a BDSM twist create a hot and emotional read that was delightful to read. To start I have to say how fresh I thought the whole concept behind this series was. While having a hero engage in this type of trade is far from unique in a contemporary setting, in a historical one I found it original and daring. Then we have the storyline which was beautiful, moving and emotive. I honestly dare you to try to resist falling in love with this couple. I know I couldn't. I felt that there was a true sweetness underlining this couples romance and I can't tell you how much I adored the fact that they "woke each other again" to love and life. On the way there is drama and some major inner turmoil that must be overcome. I am posting a volitional, objective review.