BOOK REVIEW: The Ruin of a Rake by Cat Sebastian

The Ruin of a Rake is an MM historical romance. 
Release Date: July 4, 2017
Rating: ★★

Rogue. Libertine. Rake. Lord Courtenay has been called many things and has never much cared. But after the publication of a salacious novel supposedly based on his exploits, he finds himself shunned from society. Unable to see his nephew, he is willing to do anything to improve his reputation, even if that means spending time with the most proper man in London.

Julian Medlock has spent years becoming the epitome of correct behavior. As far as he cares, if Courtenay finds himself in hot water, it’s his own fault for behaving so badly—and being so blasted irresistible. But when Julian’s sister asks him to rehabilitate Courtenay’s image, Julian is forced to spend time with the man he loathes—and lusts after—most.

As Courtenay begins to yearn for a love he fears he doesn’t deserve, Julian starts to understand how desire can drive a man to abandon all sense of

propriety. But he has secrets he’s determined to keep, because if the truth came out, it would ruin everyone he loves. Together, they must decide what they’re willing to risk for love.

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Read my Book Review

Release Date: July 4, 2017
Genre: MM Historical Romance

When I saw that this was releasing I was really excited. Why? Because it is not often that one can find a historical M/M romance novel. I mean, that type of romance is extremely taboo and forbidden during this time frame and I would have feared that if they were found out about that it would mean a near death to both of them. Sadly, I didn't feel any of this while reading, which is why I gave it a 2 stars (not my cup of tea). 

For the time period in which this book takes place, being gay is a definite no no. I mean, only in recent years has it become okay here in the United States! So one would think that these two living a "sinful" life such as they are would leave them feeling on edge and afraid of being found out. However, you don't get these type of vibes from either of the characters. At. All. I thought this was very weird and I think this is one of the biggest reasons why this book didn't sit well for me. 

Another thing that I didn't care for in terms of this book is how fast everything happened. In one chapter we are shown just how much these two men hate each other and in the next they are making out and stroking one another at a filled opera house. Really?!? Especially during this time frame? It just comes off as fake to me, and I want my books to go with the time frame they are being written for. 

In terms of characters I would give them alone 3 stars. I mean, they weren't people I particularly loved or hated, just a bit bland for my taste. One is a "bad boy" - the ruined man that is essentially a castoff to society why the other is held in very high esteem and liked by everybody. So seeing these two together (let alone having a romantic relationship with one another) seemed a little strange. But they weren't bad and I didn't mind being on their journey with them. 

On a whole, this book is clearly not my cup of tea (although I would LOVE to read another historical, MM romance). But it is clear I am in the minority here because many have read and loved this one so don't take my review as being something that everyone agrees with. ​

★★