How to Fake It in Society

KJ Charles has quite a few gay romances set in old England. She knows the era well and always weaves a compelling plot with a large cast of eccentric characters. I’ve generally found her books to be dependably entertaining reads. There is a secondary character that ultimately is revealed to be non-binary.

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It is 1821 and Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte is making a splash in London Society. The son of Jeanne de Valois de La Motte, infamous for stealing a priceless diamond necklace meant for Marie Antoinette, Nico hopes to restore his wronged mother’s reputation, if only he can raise the funds. But he must operate with great secrecy, because the Bourbon dynasty murdered his mother, and he fears for his life.

At least, that’s what he tells Titus Pilcrow. Titus was a simple shopkeeper, making and selling artists’ paints, when he found himself suddenly married to an immensely wealthy woman who wanted to disinherit her nephew on her deathbed. As word spreads of his fortune, Titus finds himself a target of every scammer and beggar in London…including one Nicolas-Marc, Comte de Valois de La Motte.

Nico is on his last legs, out of money, and on the run from some terrifying gangsters. When Titus offers Nico a space in his household, it’s the perfect chance for him to exploit London’s newest golden purse–until he falls in love with the man he needs to cheat.

Still, Nico is sure they can have a happy ending together. If he can just find his way out of his own web of lies…

The Purple Fantastic Steam rating gives this a 4 out of 5. There are some extended passages of graphically described sex. But that said, there is a solid plot and rich characters. So the book overall is a rich read. The focus is on the plot and character development. You can read more about the Steam Ratings on the About Page.