Review: The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee
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Synopsis
Henry “Monty” Montague was born and bred to be a gentleman, but he was never one to be tamed. The finest boarding schools in England and the constant disapproval of his father haven’t been able to curb any of his roguish passions—not for gambling halls, late nights spent with a bottle of spirits, or waking up in the arms of women or men.

But as Monty embarks on his Grand Tour of Europe, his quest for a life filled with pleasure and vice is in danger of coming to an end. Not only does his father expect him to take over the family’s estate upon his return, but Monty is also nursing an impossible crush on his best friend and traveling companion, Percy.

Still it isn’t in Monty’s nature to give up. Even with his younger sister, Felicity, in tow, he vows to make this yearlong escapade one last hedonistic hurrah and flirt with Percy from Paris to Rome. But when one of Monty’s reckless decisions turns their trip abroad into a harrowing manhunt that spans across Europe, it calls into question everything he knows, including his relationship with the boy he adores.

What I thought

The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue is a young adult historical fiction novel.  In this story you follow Monty who is accompanied by his best friend Percy and his sister Felicity on on his grand tour. When he returns home he will be expected to take over his family’s estate.

I loved this book.  At first I was not sold on it, but as I heard others talk about it I wanted to give it a try. I am very happy that I did.  There were times that I found myself laughing out loud to some of the witty things that were said.  I loved how this story touched on so many things. One of the undertones was abuse, and they way that it was handled by the other characters was on point not once did they excuse it. For personal reasons this meant a lot to me. Those around Monty repeatedly told him it wasn’t okay even when he said he deserved it. I know that the abuse in this book is never talked about when people review it, but it explains a lot of what Monty does and how he thinks about himself. Yes he is in love with his best friend but he thinks that he does not deserve him so he does really stupid things that makes you want to shake him and say just stop and open your eyes. (yes I realize shaking him isn’t right but you know what I mean).

The love story is a slow burn and I really enjoyed it.  You know from the beginning that they are in love with each other but they do not know this, so you get to watch the whole thing bloom. The transformation is just beautiful.

I absolutely loved Facility, she was the perfect balance for Monty. He could be so over the top and she was so down to earth. I really can not wait for the next book in this world since she is the lead in it.

My Rating: /5

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