I've been loving this series and Greene's writing. Each couple featured in this series have very different dynamics and, while they are all interlinked and inhabit the same space, each book feels separate enough that they can be read as a standalone. That can be a pro or con to the reader - there are times that I wish there was more interaction between past characters. In this book we do see the other two remaining Beasts that starred in the last two books but we don't see their companions and, besides the fire from the first novel being a major plot element here, past events are hardly mentioned. I kind of needed a recap to remember what exactly happened in the last books to not be lost in some parts.
The second book in the series remains my favourite, though this might take second place. Frakes is just much more interesting a character than Gabe, Edward, Will, or Josiah - and I missed August who made no appearance here at all.
Overall, a worthwhile series that I definitely recommend for lovers of historical MM romance. ( )

The Servant and the Gentleman by Annabelle Greene
Society of Beasts #3

Excellent – Thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the series – Wonder if this is the end, if there will be more, or if there might be a spin-off in the future – Hope so!

What I liked:
* Josiah Balfour: Administrator for the Society of Beasts, from a humble background, has worked hard to become who he is, has dreams and some include one of the Beasts
* William Hartley: wealthy, privileged, rude, doesn’t see much around him, focused on himself, fashion conscious, dealing with terrors, grows a great deal in this story
* Getting to see how some characters from previous books are doing
* Thomas: baker, supportive, good listener, would like to know more about him
* Samuel: Josiah’s cousin, seeks a future in London, has a few secrets, is integral to the story – wouldn’t mind hearing more about him in the future
* Robin Guppy: Josiah’s first assistant, has secrets of his own, admirable, another person of interest for a book of his own
* That the book drew me in, made me feel and care, and think
* The idea that perhaps such societies as the Beasts Society and Cambrill Club could have existed and done what they did in this story
* The discussion of clothing
* The dialogue – open, honest, real
* That I could see Balfour and Hartley together by the end of the book
* Contemplating what the future holds in store for the characters in this series
* Wondering if Lord Maurice and Lady Ploverdale might end up together
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about how difficult it must have been for those not in conformity with social expectations when choosing one’s life partner – the laws were reprehensible and horrific
* Thinking about the “divide” between classes

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Carina Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars ( )