A Wounded Gentleman

I enjoyed this story very much. I loved Percy very much, he was delightful, and I also liked the addition of John, Phillip, and the others later on. It was an excellent little book.

4.5 Stars This story begins with Henry finally returning home from Waterloo. Henry had been in the infantry for most of the Napoleonic War and was gravely injured in the Battle of Waterloo. He lost an arm and had one of his legs injured so I guess it’s fair to say that he’s a little bit grumpy. Also, before his return, his father, his older brother William and sister-in-law Caroline all passed away within months of each other. William and Caroline deaths left him to raise their baby Isabelle, and she is the only family he has left. And since we are referring to the year 1815, he obviously didn’t come home right away. Percy Dankworth was a childhood friend of Henry’s even if he was the son of a servant. Because of his familiarity with Henry, and the fact that he’s tall and strong, it was decided that he would be Henry’s valet. Percy has always been in love with Henry so he’s willing to be there for him. Everyone in the household loves baby Isabelle, so at least even if Henry has a bad day she won’t be on her own. I have read quite a few books by Ms. Grey. I very much enjoy her writing, but this is the first time I’ve read her Regency books. This is an excellent book. It’s a quick read and I really like all the characters and the story. The only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is that I know enough about history now (as opposed to when I read Regencies when I was a teenager) to know that Homosexuality was partially decriminalized in England in 1967, legalizing took decades…

Henry, is living a challenging life being a black man in 1800s UK. He is up to it and lives his best life. He serves in the war, is wounded and returns a hero. He lost his dominant right arm, has a debilitating wound to his leg leaving him with a limp, he lost his Father, older brother, sister in law within months of each other. He inherits the estate, the title and his 2 month niece Isabella. Now life is challenging. His new Valet, is his old friend, Percy who has loved him since they were teenagers. Gabbi, gives us an amazing story with Henry re-entering life with physical challenges, raising a baby, embracing his estate responsibilities and socializing with the neighbors and society all while redefining his relationship with Percy. Henry and Percy are amazing, supporting characters are great and funny. Your sad tears turn to happy tears. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

4.5 stars I love anything Gabbi Grey, and this was my first historical period romance. True to form, loved this one, too. Henry and Percy were quite vivid in my mind, a relationship built on long friendship and unrequited love on Percy’s part until he became Henry’s valet on his return to the manor. Reeling from the loss of his arm and the injury to his leg, Henry needs help in all parts of his life, and Percy is there, ready, willing and able to attend to ANY need Henry could possibly have. With his niece Isabella and a few single, like-minded friends, Henry is able to settle down to the peaceful life of a country gentleman with his lover Percy by his side, living life on his own terms, the one he has earned and deserves. Gabbi’s characters are always beautifully drawn, complicated and complex men it is easy to like and root for as they go through everyday, and sometimes unexpected, events to find their forever person and their HEA. Her settings enrich the narrative with added context, helping the reader get drawn into, then involved in the story. Her writing draws me in from page one and keeps me engaged to the end, immersing me into the lives of these men, and leaving me with a feeling of satisfaction for a story well told. I recommend any of her books for a satisfying read every time.

Henry's return home is steeped in grief and depression. He's lost his father, brother, and sister-in-law, as well as his hand and health. Percy is there to meet Henry's every need. I liked how perceptive Percy is. Percy helps Henry realize that he can choose his own life's path. He no longer has to cave to others' expectations and rules. I enjoyed the way Henry and Percy built a family and their own circle of friends in the end. I would highly recommend anything by Gabbi Grey, including the two other stories that take place in this same universe: A Sensible Gentleman and An Uncommon Gentleman