The Gentlemen's Guide to Vice and Virtue

Vinny Prindle

Class of 2025

The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee is a book centered around a queer man in the 1700’s. It is focused on our protagonist, Henry Montague, who’s nicknamed Monty throughout the entire book. He is a flawed main character in the best way possible. Due to his behavior, his father is sending him on a Grand Tour. A Grand Tour was a trip young aristocrats took. It was seen as a rite of passage. Monty is able to bring along Percy Newton, the man he’s VERY in love with. To avoid spoilers, details about the plot will be left out as it’s better to experience the book for yourself (I highly recommend you check it out, it’s an amazing book and series overall). Instead we’ll focus on the queer representation in this book.

While Monty’s sexuality is never stated explicitly, it is implied that he is bisexual. He is depicted to be attracted to both men and women, although the focus is on Percy. The book shows a queer man struggling and overcoming his issues. He is a selfish and arrogant character, struggling to process the trauma he’s been through. His behavior isn’t excused and is negatively affecting his relationships. Monty’s flawed character pushes Percy away and it affects him deeply.

Over the course of the book, Monty improves as a character because of the events happening around him and Percy. He learns from his mistakes and struggles. The queer representation in this book is wonderful. It’s the right amount of clumsy gays dealing with admitting they like each other and actual plot that wraps up very nicely.