Have you ever read Diana Gabaldon´s novells about "Lord John"? I adore him since years and maybe this would be a nice story for you to read? I like the little fact that he is gay, but that´s not the main-point in the books and he hasn´t his happy ever after. But it´s bitter-sweet and he is such a strong character and it´s based in old London/England and that makes it perfect for me :)