The Gentleman and his Vowsmith by Rebecca Ide

Book Review

Adrian Fletcher

The Gentleman and his Vowsmith is an interesting blend of genres. Primarily a historical gothic fantasy, part haunted house mystery, but with a strong queer romance. 

The world-building is solid and believable. Set in an alternate Regency-era England, where vows such as marriage are binding magical constructs overseen by Vowsmiths. The concept of nobles being distinguished from the common people by their affinity for magic, or “the brilliance,” feels a natural extension of the feudal era. 

The book is told from the point of view of Nicholas Monterris, the sole heir of a prestigious but poor family. His father has arranged a marriage with Leaf, the daughter of a richer, but socially lower family, and of course there is bad blood between the two families. More of an issue for Nic is the presence of Dashiell, his erstwhile paramour, now a qualified vowsmith overseeing the negotiations. 

The negotiators and key members of each family are locked into the old, and decaying, gothic mansion of the Monterris family until the contract negotiations are completed and signed. When people begin to die in suspicious circumstances, Leaf and Nic investigate, and sparks fly between Nic and Dash. 

The mystery itself is intriguing, with a number of humorous nods to classic detective stories, notably Conan Doyle and Christie. It can be slightly slow-moving at times, to give the romance time to breathe, but there are enough twists to keep those who may not be here for the romance engaged. 

The romance between Dash and Nic is well written. Both characters act believably, and while romance isn’t necessarily a big interest of mine, I found it easy enough going. 

For me though, the book’s most interesting dynamic was Nic and Leaf. Leaf is, although it’s never stated outright, asexual and has repeatedly asked her father to be released from her duties to her family, referred to as being sassined, so she can start a brilliance school for women. Despite neither really being enthusiastic about their marriage, they quickly become friends and partners in investigation. Leaf in particular, being a fan of gothic novels, drives the investigation.

I love Leaf, and for me she’s a little under-used in the book, particularly at the end. At times it felt like the secrets they unveiled were more a case of fortune than their own agency. I’d have loved to see Leaf’s detective skills pay off a little more. Her slight otherness as an asexual woman in an age where that’s not the norm is also something that we could see explored more. 

That said, the ending is satisfying and provides an emotional climax to all the various plotlines. Without too many spoilers, the themes of love and duty and the toll they can take on a life come together nicely. 

Overall, it’s a fun and emotional book. Nic struggles with his responsibilities and what’s required of him, as do all the characters. There are some serious themes, but they’re balanced well with a wry humour and the more tender moments of romance. 

I’d recommend this book to anyone, not just those looking for queer romance. Mystery and fantasy fans will find a lot to love here.