Scan barcode
A review by mallorypen
An Unnatural Vice by KJ Charles
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Another absolutely delightful book in the series from KJ Charles! This one hit so many of my favorite tropes - enemies to lovers, the “who hurt you” vibe, switching, Longing™️ … just delicious.
Again, the story itself was interesting and fast-paced. Justin’s work as a spiritualist gave the same sense of timing as Rowley’s being a preserver - his actions and line of work feel deeply rooted in 1900s London culture. His disdain for his clients in lieu of feeling his own guilt was beautifully-written, including the slow way it turned from disdain to true remorse at the end. I also had hoped Justin would become a private investigator!
Nathaniel’s character is equally interesting; his lost love and the way his path changed made his blossoming romance all the sweeter as it developed.
The mystery and high stakes played well into the sense of urgency, even as their romance went from hate sex to “I hate myself” sex to “I want to fix myself with your support” sex. The spicy scenes all moved the story along to that point, and I so appreciate when spice is part of the plot and not just something to titillate.
I also love that Rowley and Clem were in this book - and I can’t wait to read about Nate (and maybe also Pen???)
Again, the story itself was interesting and fast-paced. Justin’s work as a spiritualist gave the same sense of timing as Rowley’s being a preserver - his actions and line of work feel deeply rooted in 1900s London culture. His disdain for his clients in lieu of feeling his own guilt was beautifully-written, including the slow way it turned from disdain to true remorse at the end. I also had hoped Justin would become a private investigator!
Nathaniel’s character is equally interesting; his lost love and the way his path changed made his blossoming romance all the sweeter as it developed.
The mystery and high stakes played well into the sense of urgency, even as their romance went from hate sex to “I hate myself” sex to “I want to fix myself with your support” sex. The spicy scenes all moved the story along to that point, and I so appreciate when spice is part of the plot and not just something to titillate.
I also love that Rowley and Clem were in this book - and I can’t wait to read about Nate (and maybe also Pen???)