I just adored this novel - it had me gripped from the very first page. Yes, it's a historical, but I didn't find it slow moving at any point. Erastes knows how to pace a story, while still giving enough description to give you a vivid picture of England during the Civil War.
Transgressions is the story of the romance between the beautiful but feckless David Caverly, the blacksmith's son, and the quiet but intense Jonathan Graie who is taken on as his father's apprentice. Despite the depth of their youthful love, they are torn apart as a result of both external factors and their own character flaws, with David running away to join the King's army, while Jon later signs up for Cromwell's Roundheads. Usually when I read a romance where lovers are torn asunder, only to be later reunited, I find myself impatient to get through the section where they experience their trials apart. I didn't have that problem with this novel, however, as this section of the novel was even more compelling than David and Jon's early romance. The two heroes experience believable character growth, there are some fascinating (and occasionally downright scary) supporting characters, and Erastes gives just enough information about the politics and beliefs of the time to give the novel texture, while never overloading the reader.
Another thing that Transgressions has going for it, in contrast to some of the other m/m historicals I have read, is a fair number of erotic scenes. Erastes manages that difficult job of writing using suitable language for the historical period, and utilising metaphors and imagery that at times astounded me with their aptness and beauty. I also found the ending to be satisfying, without insulting my intelligence by giving a resolution that was too easy for the times David and Jon live in.
All in all, highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a m/m romance with plenty of sex and action, but without sacrificing proper character development and a decent plot.