The Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen is one of the best historical queer romances I’ve read. It is the story of Sir Gareth and the smuggler Joss Doomsday. Yet the first time they meet, they don’t exchange names. Months later, both are shocked to discover that they are living on the same Marsh. Gareth has come into an inheritance from his estranged and selfish father. Meanwhile, Joss must do all he can to keep his family smuggling ring running smoothly. When Gareth begins receiving threats in regard to his late father’s finances, he must ask the last person he wants for help. Joss and Gareth must work together to escape with their lives and hearts intact. 

KJ Charles does queer romance so unbelievably well and incorporates the historical aspect in a genuinely interesting way. The stories of the people who live on the Marsh are both heartbreaking and thrilling. Sir Gareth has no idea what he’s walked into as “outmarsh,” and Joss must be the one to explain the way things are done in this marsh far from London. I devoured this book; I read it in two sittings. I couldn’t put it down! One of my favorite aspects was the found family, especially the Doomsday clan. The Doomsday clan is a diverse, overall inclusive, and simply fascinating family. I’m so excited that we get more stories in this world!!

Gareth and Joss strongly remind me of the relationship of Ed and Stede in Our Flag Means Death- while neither knows much about the other’s world, they find a way to meet in the middle. Gareth is thrust into the nobility from being a humble clerk and he is given room to make mistakes along the way and grow from the experience. Joss has the weight of the world on his shoulders and yet somehow manages to make Gareth a priority. I loved Joss’s protectiveness and Gareth’s sense of justice. Gareth and Joss have one of my favorite  dynamics and romances- you won’t be able to look away! 

I loved the Secret Lives of Country Gentlemen so much! Gareth and Joss have a beautiful, pining romance that defies expectations. The supporting cast is also excellent, especially Joss’ mother, grandfather, and Sophy. They all feel distinct and hilarious in their own ways. I would recommend this book for fans of Our Flag Means Death, Bridgerton, and readers who enjoy queer historical romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and see what KJ Charles writes next! 

Thank you so much to KJ Charles, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.