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The XOXO Files #1
Mummy Dearest
The truth is out there. Way, way, "way" out there!
"The XOXO Files, Book 1"
Drew Lawson is racing against the clock. He s got a twenty-four-hour window to authenticate the mummy of Princess Merneith. If he s not at his boyfriend s garden party when that window closes, it ll be the final nail in their relationship coffin.
The last thing he needs traipsing on the final shred of his patience is brash, handsome reality show host Fraser Fortune, who s scheduled to film a documentary about the mummy s Halloween curse.
The opportunity to film a bona-fide professor examining the mummy is exactly the aura of authenticity Fraser needs. Except the grumpy PhD is a pompous ass on leave from his ivory tower. Yet something about Drew has Fraser using a word he doesn t normally have to draw upon: "please."
With no time to waste and a spark of attraction he can t deny Drew reluctantly agrees to let Fraser follow his every move as he unwraps the mummy s secrets. Soon they re both making moves behind the scenes that even the dead can t ignore
Warning: Whoso shall ever open this tomb, er, book shall suffer the curse of the Pharaohs. Okay, maybe not. But set aside a chunk of time for marauding mummies, too many cosmopolitans, illicit sex in hotel rooms, and other non-academic shenanigans.
"The XOXO Files, Book 1"
Drew Lawson is racing against the clock. He s got a twenty-four-hour window to authenticate the mummy of Princess Merneith. If he s not at his boyfriend s garden party when that window closes, it ll be the final nail in their relationship coffin.
The last thing he needs traipsing on the final shred of his patience is brash, handsome reality show host Fraser Fortune, who s scheduled to film a documentary about the mummy s Halloween curse.
The opportunity to film a bona-fide professor examining the mummy is exactly the aura of authenticity Fraser needs. Except the grumpy PhD is a pompous ass on leave from his ivory tower. Yet something about Drew has Fraser using a word he doesn t normally have to draw upon: "please."
With no time to waste and a spark of attraction he can t deny Drew reluctantly agrees to let Fraser follow his every move as he unwraps the mummy s secrets. Soon they re both making moves behind the scenes that even the dead can t ignore
Warning: Whoso shall ever open this tomb, er, book shall suffer the curse of the Pharaohs. Okay, maybe not. But set aside a chunk of time for marauding mummies, too many cosmopolitans, illicit sex in hotel rooms, and other non-academic shenanigans.
105 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2011
27 people are currently reading
711 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
223 books5,418 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
October 30, 2022
This was a fun short story. The mystery is on the lighter side and the romance feels a bit rushed, but I liked the characters, the humor and the Halloween setting.
I started listening to this on audio, but I didn't like the voices Sean Crisden did for secondary characters. He was ruining Fraser's character for me, so I switched to e-book.
I started listening to this on audio, but I didn't like the voices Sean Crisden did for secondary characters. He was ruining Fraser's character for me, so I switched to e-book.
March 23, 2015
Written March 22, 2015
3.8 Stars - Yummy sweet, very short, but 'mummy' fun
As so often from Josh Lanyon you just get a yummy little taste of a tantalizing tidbit. I really hope for a sequel book in this meant to be XOXO Files series soon. (There are already a couple of years since 2011 when this first part was published - Sigh!)
Anyway, I really enjoyed this light-hearted and funny 2:45 hrs audiobook novella. Great narrated by Sean Crisden too.
***********************************************************
# Drew Lawson is a young College Professor and is in town to authenticate the mummy of Princess Merneith.
# Fraser Fortune is a handsome quite famous TV show host who is in town with his team to film a documentary about the mummy's Halloween curse.
Of course, clashes both their plans for the day... with a big bang.
All in all, this was an angst-free, nice novella with a couple of sweet guys. A good start to something more and some new adventures. As my sweet friend Are express it:
3H rating - Heart, Heat and Humor!!
***********************************************************
I LIKE - short but yummy good as well
3.8 Stars - Yummy sweet, very short, but 'mummy' fun
As so often from Josh Lanyon you just get a yummy little taste of a tantalizing tidbit. I really hope for a sequel book in this meant to be XOXO Files series soon. (There are already a couple of years since 2011 when this first part was published - Sigh!)
Anyway, I really enjoyed this light-hearted and funny 2:45 hrs audiobook novella. Great narrated by Sean Crisden too.
***********************************************************
# Drew Lawson is a young College Professor and is in town to authenticate the mummy of Princess Merneith.
# Fraser Fortune is a handsome quite famous TV show host who is in town with his team to film a documentary about the mummy's Halloween curse.
Of course, clashes both their plans for the day... with a big bang.
‘I hadn't liked him at first. He did sort of grow on you after a while. Like the cosmopolitans. Or maybe because of the cosmopolitans.’
All in all, this was an angst-free, nice novella with a couple of sweet guys. A good start to something more and some new adventures. As my sweet friend Are express it:
3H rating - Heart, Heat and Humor!!
***********************************************************
I LIKE - short but yummy good as well
January 9, 2016
Can never really decide if I like narrator Sean Crisden or not.
Will buy 10 more audio books & conduct further research. Important to be scientific about this shit.
Fun book though.
October 4, 2011
Awwwwwwww!
End of review.
Really, I can't be more articulate, but I'll be able to write my usual raving about a Josh Lanyon's book, because this author writes what I want to read, period.
The characters! Drew, the professor who has to "publish or perish", and Fraser, the reality show golden host, are cute and sweet, but in such an understated way that you don't realize they have you wrapped around their little fingers until the end of the last page, when it's over and you cry out for more.
Drew is reconsidering his whole life without knowing he is doing it. His meeting with Fraser, who is caring and informal and spontaneous, happens at the time when his relationship with his older lover Noah is strained and unfullfilling. Drew tries very hard to be faithful and loyal to his lover, but a tense phone call and Fraser's proximity ignite a reaction which Drew doesn't shy away from, but makes him see his whole life under a different perspective.
Drew is insecure and what happens rocks his world, but he doesn't lose himself in drama. The silent tears Fraser wipes away from Drew's cheeks show that you can write something very emotional without having to make your characters sob and cry like banshees. I think it's the best moment of the book, because it's a very private moment for Drew, a moment when he's at his most vulnerable, and he shares it with a kind of stranger who has shown him tenderness and affection and passion. The instant attraction between Drew and Fraser is very believable and I could feel them connect with each other line after line.
The story is very funny. Halloween is the perfect setting to investigate the mystery around a lively mummy in a little museum struggling to gain exposure in a town where recession has hit business very hard. The conflict between Drew's scientific approach and Fraser's show business' research for the sensational gives the characters that perfect chasm to bridge to come closer. This book is the best way to spend a couple of hours of romantic entertainment with excellent writing.
Next, please?
End of review.
Really, I can't be more articulate, but I'll be able to write my usual raving about a Josh Lanyon's book, because this author writes what I want to read, period.
The characters! Drew, the professor who has to "publish or perish", and Fraser, the reality show golden host, are cute and sweet, but in such an understated way that you don't realize they have you wrapped around their little fingers until the end of the last page, when it's over and you cry out for more.
Drew is reconsidering his whole life without knowing he is doing it. His meeting with Fraser, who is caring and informal and spontaneous, happens at the time when his relationship with his older lover Noah is strained and unfullfilling. Drew tries very hard to be faithful and loyal to his lover, but a tense phone call and Fraser's proximity ignite a reaction which Drew doesn't shy away from, but makes him see his whole life under a different perspective.
Drew is insecure and what happens rocks his world, but he doesn't lose himself in drama. The silent tears Fraser wipes away from Drew's cheeks show that you can write something very emotional without having to make your characters sob and cry like banshees. I think it's the best moment of the book, because it's a very private moment for Drew, a moment when he's at his most vulnerable, and he shares it with a kind of stranger who has shown him tenderness and affection and passion. The instant attraction between Drew and Fraser is very believable and I could feel them connect with each other line after line.
The story is very funny. Halloween is the perfect setting to investigate the mystery around a lively mummy in a little museum struggling to gain exposure in a town where recession has hit business very hard. The conflict between Drew's scientific approach and Fraser's show business' research for the sensational gives the characters that perfect chasm to bridge to come closer. This book is the best way to spend a couple of hours of romantic entertainment with excellent writing.
Next, please?
January 22, 2016
Ok great, a nice series from Josh Lanyon. Sure, it's a bit formulaic, but it's a nice formula. Nice enough to carry on in the series. Wait, what? There are no more? Why is this called a series if there is just one book, that came out 5 years ago? Sheesh.
October 8, 2014
Cute, and fun, but a bit shallow. I liked the characters, but their relationship developed a bit too quickly for my taste. It made Drew seem a bit too wishy washy to me. I liked the humor of the mystery, but the resolution could have been a bit more adult, and a little less Scooby Doo. It made it feel a bit immature, and didn't quite fit with the rest of the story.
May 18, 2022
Great re-listen. A fun little story, and a terrific romance.
Audio was excellent, I love Sean Crisden, he's perfect for this one.
Audio was excellent, I love Sean Crisden, he's perfect for this one.
January 19, 2020
It’s Josh Lanyon and Sean Crisden. Need I say more?
A fantastic short with a musty mummy mystery. And a speedo. Can’t forget the speedo—-not on the mummy, of course, cause how would it fill it out?
A fantastic short with a musty mummy mystery. And a speedo. Can’t forget the speedo—-not on the mummy, of course, cause how would it fill it out?
October 4, 2011
I, Laddie, have read a Josh Lanyon book, loved a Josh Lanyon book and am about to gush about a Josh Lanyon book.
No, this does not mean that the world is going to end. That will only happen if I am ever made to sit through a whole Beyonce album.
In any case, I sat down to read this book because I was told how much fun the story is. I was doubtful but you know what? It was fun. Not only was the story fun but it was funny and smart.
I loved both characters equally and I loved them right from the start. Usually, I play favorites (that doesn't bode well for my future children) but Dr. Drew Lawson and Fraser Fortune are such a unit that I can't really think of them living separately in the part of my heart dedicated to book lovin'.
Dr. Drew Lawson, our narrator, is a scholar who's under pressure to publish something in order to justify the fact that he's being considered for tenure. You see, the head of the department is his lover and as a result their colleagues don't respect all of the work Drew's done to get where he is.
Fraser Fortune is the writer, producer and star of a documentary/reality television show about myths, curses and local legends.
The two men meet over a mummy in a dime museum and it's annoyance at first sight.
Fraser is all "How can you not know who I am? Acknowledge my celebrity!"
Drew is all "I don't care who you are. Now, can you move so that I can do what scholars do?"
They are so perfect for each other. And so, Josh Lanyon takes us on an adventure through a dying town on halloween while we watch Drew embark on an adventure of the heart. The simply delightful romp that is the mystery of the mummy is off set by Drew's somber realization that he's come to the end of his relationship with his current lover.
Fraser is there to hold Drew's hand and hold him up in a way that doesn't take advantage of Drew. Fraser is solid, gentle, fun and sexy in so many ways. He knows exactly who he is as a person which makes him the perfect person to be there for Drew as Drew rediscovers himself.
This was the best series beginning that I have ever read. Mr. Lanyon has a new fan.
No, this does not mean that the world is going to end. That will only happen if I am ever made to sit through a whole Beyonce album.
In any case, I sat down to read this book because I was told how much fun the story is. I was doubtful but you know what? It was fun. Not only was the story fun but it was funny and smart.
I loved both characters equally and I loved them right from the start. Usually, I play favorites (that doesn't bode well for my future children) but Dr. Drew Lawson and Fraser Fortune are such a unit that I can't really think of them living separately in the part of my heart dedicated to book lovin'.
Dr. Drew Lawson, our narrator, is a scholar who's under pressure to publish something in order to justify the fact that he's being considered for tenure. You see, the head of the department is his lover and as a result their colleagues don't respect all of the work Drew's done to get where he is.
Fraser Fortune is the writer, producer and star of a documentary/reality television show about myths, curses and local legends.
The two men meet over a mummy in a dime museum and it's annoyance at first sight.
Fraser is all "How can you not know who I am? Acknowledge my celebrity!"
Drew is all "I don't care who you are. Now, can you move so that I can do what scholars do?"
They are so perfect for each other. And so, Josh Lanyon takes us on an adventure through a dying town on halloween while we watch Drew embark on an adventure of the heart. The simply delightful romp that is the mystery of the mummy is off set by Drew's somber realization that he's come to the end of his relationship with his current lover.
Fraser is there to hold Drew's hand and hold him up in a way that doesn't take advantage of Drew. Fraser is solid, gentle, fun and sexy in so many ways. He knows exactly who he is as a person which makes him the perfect person to be there for Drew as Drew rediscovers himself.
This was the best series beginning that I have ever read. Mr. Lanyon has a new fan.
March 21, 2022
Josh Lanyon novellas are always the life savior especially when you have no time for ebooks.
September 25, 2019
Cute! I'm guessing that sequel listed isn't coming any time soon?
October 14, 2014
Drunk Drew is a hilarious Drew.
September 14, 2012
Scooby Doo with gay gays! What's not to love?
I adored this pairing: I cannot explain why I love Fraser so much when in person I think I would hate him. I really want another book about this couple.
I adored this pairing: I cannot explain why I love Fraser so much when in person I think I would hate him. I really want another book about this couple.
June 17, 2019
Another short but fun listen narrated by Sean Crisden another one of my favorite narrators. It's been a while since I enjoyed a Josh Lanyon story and I really enjoyed this one so for me it was an easy choice to enjoy this story again while I was organizing some of my computer files. 'Mummy Dearest' was slated to be the first book in Josh Lanyon's 'XOXO' series and while nothing more has been released since this one, 'Mummy Dearest' is able to stand on it's own as an enjoyable short story.
With Sean Crisden as always providing an enjoyable narration that adds depth and interest to the characters and the story this one works really well as an entertaining and enjoyable way to pass an afternoon and if you like a touch of humor in your stories this one hits the mark in that department as well.
Definitely recommended for a short, fun listen when you've got a couple of hours to fill.
With Sean Crisden as always providing an enjoyable narration that adds depth and interest to the characters and the story this one works really well as an entertaining and enjoyable way to pass an afternoon and if you like a touch of humor in your stories this one hits the mark in that department as well.
Definitely recommended for a short, fun listen when you've got a couple of hours to fill.
November 14, 2011
I love, love, loved this!!
Not really sure what to say another than it was a joy to read. It was funny and witty and snarky. All some of the reasons I love Josh's writing. It was a simple read with a silly little mystery . Looking forward to reading more stories with Drew and Fraser.
Like most of Josh's stories, it does end with a HFN.
Not really sure what to say another than it was a joy to read. It was funny and witty and snarky. All some of the reasons I love Josh's writing. It was a simple read with a silly little mystery . Looking forward to reading more stories with Drew and Fraser.
Like most of Josh's stories, it does end with a HFN.
September 23, 2015
Quick, light hearted and humorous read. Reminded me of Shaggy and Scooby Do hunting mummies!
October 4, 2011
I believe others have been so articulately review this novella -- and since I wrote this at 3 A.M. I'm not truly at a state of mind to write my opinion coherently. So I just want to add few things of my own ...
(1) This is probably one of the most fun stories of Josh's (and I can't remember plenty of that); it makes me chuckling from the very first pages
(2) It is amazing that Josh can profoundly write something emotional while keeping it in understated kind of way (case in point, when Fraser asks Drew, in the silent middle of the night, on why Drew is so far away. Those tender but deep moments in the bedroom are some of my favorites scenes in this story.
(3) I love how in the backdrop of romance, Josh brings to the surface, the issue about what a small museum in small city must do to survive. The mystery surrounding the mummy is not truly difficult to guess, though, and you can probably know it before the story ends. Still, it's a good social issue and I feel happy that at the end of the story, the museum does have something to help them stay afloat.
By the way, I'm glad that
So, even if I ask myself, what kind of name is "Fraser Fortune" (?!?!), hats off once again to Josh (the reference to The X-Files is a plus, since I love that show, darn it!), and I can't wait to hear the news about the next book in the series.
(1) This is probably one of the most fun stories of Josh's (and I can't remember plenty of that); it makes me chuckling from the very first pages
(2) It is amazing that Josh can profoundly write something emotional while keeping it in understated kind of way (case in point, when Fraser asks Drew, in the silent middle of the night, on why Drew is so far away. Those tender but deep moments in the bedroom are some of my favorites scenes in this story.
(3) I love how in the backdrop of romance, Josh brings to the surface, the issue about what a small museum in small city must do to survive. The mystery surrounding the mummy is not truly difficult to guess, though, and you can probably know it before the story ends. Still, it's a good social issue and I feel happy that at the end of the story, the museum does have something to help them stay afloat.
By the way, I'm glad that
So, even if I ask myself, what kind of name is "Fraser Fortune" (?!?!), hats off once again to Josh (the reference to The X-Files is a plus, since I love that show, darn it!), and I can't wait to hear the news about the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2012
Mummy Dearest by Josh Lanyon was adorable, touching and down right fun! It held an old school horror movie-caper feel that tickled my funny bone and filled my heart with laughter. Who doesn’t want to run through the streets on Halloween night juiced up on too many Cosmopolitans? :D
Drew Lawson is a college professor trying to research a “publish or perish” article on the mummy of Princess Merneith when he bumps into a mystery, an ancient curse, and Fraser Fortune. Is that a great name or what? Hehe.. Fortune is the host of a reality show about the legends, mysteries, and wonders of life. At first sight, these two seemingly opposite professions and men clash causing all sorts of sparks, cute banter, and hijinks galore. Can the cheesy “wannabe Van Helsing” TV host and “pretentious” college professor see past their first impressions, work together, solve the mystery of the mummy’s curse, and survive Halloween night in Wyoming?
Underneath all the fun giggles though, is a warmth and tenderness that surprised me. Caught me a bit off guard. Drew is going through a rough time with his partner of two years, Noah, who is also his boss and mentor. The tension at work is causing tension at home or is it the other way around? Drew seems to be reevaluating his relationship and happiness with Noah. I felt like Fraser came along in Drew’s life when he needed a good listener, open heart, and warm embrace. Drew broke my heart over and over again as he slowly revealed the things he has sacrificed, ignored, or lost to be with Noah. His struggle might just make readers look at their own lives and loves. The quiet heartfelt, tender moments made my heart melt, “awww”, and ache!
One added bonus and character in this tale was the small, old school museum the mummy was housed in. I adore touring smaller museums with all their creaky nooks and crannies filled with darkness, dust, and ghosts. Nothing makes me smile more than a diorama! The museum in these pages made me think of one of my favorite places on earth. If you ever visit the Boston area, I highly recommend this gem of a place—Harvard Museum of Natural History. It’s creaky, creepy, and perfect! :)
This was my first Josh Lanyon tale and it will not be my last! A true treat!
With style and humor, this blushing, smashed, cutie professor and stocky, dashing mystery seeker stole my heart!
Looking forward to tuning in for more XOXO files! Til next time….
p.s. This might sound strange--but in my head, this story came to life in black & white.
Drew Lawson is a college professor trying to research a “publish or perish” article on the mummy of Princess Merneith when he bumps into a mystery, an ancient curse, and Fraser Fortune. Is that a great name or what? Hehe.. Fortune is the host of a reality show about the legends, mysteries, and wonders of life. At first sight, these two seemingly opposite professions and men clash causing all sorts of sparks, cute banter, and hijinks galore. Can the cheesy “wannabe Van Helsing” TV host and “pretentious” college professor see past their first impressions, work together, solve the mystery of the mummy’s curse, and survive Halloween night in Wyoming?
Underneath all the fun giggles though, is a warmth and tenderness that surprised me. Caught me a bit off guard. Drew is going through a rough time with his partner of two years, Noah, who is also his boss and mentor. The tension at work is causing tension at home or is it the other way around? Drew seems to be reevaluating his relationship and happiness with Noah. I felt like Fraser came along in Drew’s life when he needed a good listener, open heart, and warm embrace. Drew broke my heart over and over again as he slowly revealed the things he has sacrificed, ignored, or lost to be with Noah. His struggle might just make readers look at their own lives and loves. The quiet heartfelt, tender moments made my heart melt, “awww”, and ache!
One added bonus and character in this tale was the small, old school museum the mummy was housed in. I adore touring smaller museums with all their creaky nooks and crannies filled with darkness, dust, and ghosts. Nothing makes me smile more than a diorama! The museum in these pages made me think of one of my favorite places on earth. If you ever visit the Boston area, I highly recommend this gem of a place—Harvard Museum of Natural History. It’s creaky, creepy, and perfect! :)
This was my first Josh Lanyon tale and it will not be my last! A true treat!
With style and humor, this blushing, smashed, cutie professor and stocky, dashing mystery seeker stole my heart!
Looking forward to tuning in for more XOXO files! Til next time….
p.s. This might sound strange--but in my head, this story came to life in black & white.
October 5, 2011
Very good m/m romantic suspense about a professor of archeology who visits a dime museum in Wyoming to study its mummy, only to find that there's a reality/documentary show there filming the same mummy. I was a bit disappointed that the main characters felt awfully familiar from other Lanyon books I've read.
April 18, 2013
“No offense, but you’re wound about as tight as anyone I’ve ever met.”
“None taken. I come from a long line of Slinkys.”
This is a light fluffy story—and as always with Lanyon books,well written—not much mystery but the Halloween setting is perfect—I love a story that makes me smile—then giggle
“None taken. I come from a long line of Slinkys.”
This is a light fluffy story—and as always with Lanyon books,well written—not much mystery but the Halloween setting is perfect—I love a story that makes me smile—then giggle
December 19, 2014
justifying adultery.
August 15, 2016
i felt like i was robbed of a good story this was sweet but too short ..i want to know more... overall it was a Sweet quick story
October 20, 2015
**** 4 mummy stars ****
---------------------------------
"Which part are you upset about? The BJ or the mummy watching me blow you?"
---------------------------------
Drew Lawson, a young college professor visits the town of Walsh, Wyoming, aka the middle of nowhere, to examine the mummy of Princess Merneith at the local museum. Unfortunately it seems the mummy is "double booked" since handsome, tv celebrity Fraser Fortune is there to do a show on the mummy as well. The rumor is that the mummy comes to life every Halloween, and guess which day it is?
Their first meet isn't very successful, book-y meets flash-y, but turns of events bring them together to try to unwrap (ha!) the mystery. The rumor can't be real, right?
Drew also got to deal with his boyfriend, who's not going to win a Boyfriend of the Year award anytime soon.
---------------------------------
This was a fun, lighthearted and angst free short audio listen just short of three hours. I liked the dry humor. The writing was good and the narration great. The mystery wasn't much of a mystery, but the reveal wasn't the focus of the story as how they got there and found each other was the interesting part. I might argue the breakup with Drew's boyfriend was a bit sudden, even though the boyfriend had it coming, and Drew hooking up with Fraser was a bit quick, but I was happy for Drew and Fraser. Sometimes shit happens and you meet someone and it just clicks! By a little help of a mummy.
Recommended!
-- Narrated by Sean Crisden --
Overall: 4
Performance: 5
Story: 4
Drew also got to deal with his boyfriend, who's not going to win a Boyfriend of the Year award anytime soon.
---------------------------------
My heart was pounding so hard I felt sick as I said, "You know, Noah, in the space of a two-minute conversation you’ve called me ridiculous three times. Also insecure, childish and jealous."
Noah said tartly, “That, beautiful boy, is because you’re behaving ridiculously. Now I’m going to have my dinner and I’ll talk to you tomorrow evening."
"Don’t hang up on me, Noah."
"Goodbye, Drew."
Noah said tartly, “That, beautiful boy, is because you’re behaving ridiculously. Now I’m going to have my dinner and I’ll talk to you tomorrow evening."
"Don’t hang up on me, Noah."
"Goodbye, Drew."
----------------------------------
This was a fun, lighthearted and angst free short audio listen just short of three hours. I liked the dry humor. The writing was good and the narration great. The mystery wasn't much of a mystery, but the reveal wasn't the focus of the story as how they got there and found each other was the interesting part. I might argue the breakup with Drew's boyfriend was a bit sudden, even though the boyfriend had it coming, and Drew hooking up with Fraser was a bit quick, but I was happy for Drew and Fraser. Sometimes shit happens and you meet someone and it just clicks! By a little help of a mummy.
Recommended!
-- Narrated by Sean Crisden --
Overall: 4
Performance: 5
Story: 4
October 5, 2011
Gut reaction: I'm sorry. Did I stumble upon a worm hole and went to an alternate dimension where a Josh Lanyon story did nothing else but make me laugh and laugh again and laugh some more and then some? And when I woke up in the morning and remembered the story, I laughed again. I am forever laughing.
Serious review is serious: This is probably the funniest - and funnest - story to have ever come out of Lanyon's proverbial quill. It may not be as profound or as textured as his other stories can be, but it's certainly the most entertaining. It's light on plot, upbeat in mood, and neat in execution. There's substance and poignant bittersweetness beneath the mountain of humorous banters and exciting situations but the ending is optimistic and promises of more great things to come.
(Pah, I sound like Drew's 'lover', Noah, up there. Please disregard the entire paragraph above and read the next one instead.)
But what I really want to say is: Oh my god, I loved it. Actually, it's more like I LOVED IT. (Did you notice the emphasis I put on the word? No? Here it is again: LOVED !) It's short (too short, give me more!) but I loved it. I can't wait for more.
For the record: I prefer if no mummies were present during any of my post-coital activities.
August 16, 2011
I have had the extreme pleasure of reading this book (Thank you, Josh!) and for me, it went by much too quickly. I wanted it to last for days! Sadly, it didn't.
This story is a lighter fare for Lanyon. Much of the gritty intrigue of his mysteries is missing here but this story isn't written in that flavour. The voice of the characters carry through and once more, an homage to the film noir / classic theatre is woven into slices of the plot.
It was a fantastic X-Files meets Hepburn/Spencer romp. I'll build out a bigger review closer to release date.
This story is a lighter fare for Lanyon. Much of the gritty intrigue of his mysteries is missing here but this story isn't written in that flavour. The voice of the characters carry through and once more, an homage to the film noir / classic theatre is woven into slices of the plot.
It was a fantastic X-Files meets Hepburn/Spencer romp. I'll build out a bigger review closer to release date.
May 29, 2015
***3.5 stars***
December 8, 2024
Nice, but I wanted it to go on.
August 22, 2021
Really enjoyed this novella.
Drew's a professor and he needs to publish a paper to work towards getting tenure. Authenticating he mummy of Princess Merneith held at a failing museum poses the perfect topic. His plans run itno a slight hitch when he gets there and Fraser Fortune and his crew are already there to film a documentary about the supposed Mummy's Curse.
Drew and Fraser have great snark thrown back and forth. And as they work together the animosity quickly turns into chemistry.
I really want more, but sadly it looks like the sequel isn't going to be made :(
Drew's a professor and he needs to publish a paper to work towards getting tenure. Authenticating he mummy of Princess Merneith held at a failing museum poses the perfect topic. His plans run itno a slight hitch when he gets there and Fraser Fortune and his crew are already there to film a documentary about the supposed Mummy's Curse.
Drew and Fraser have great snark thrown back and forth. And as they work together the animosity quickly turns into chemistry.
I really want more, but sadly it looks like the sequel isn't going to be made :(
April 2, 2020
This is an absolutely fantastic novella—a fully realized story, fleshed out characters, a sweet and hopeful romance, and Lanyon in top form for mystery, history, and humor. This is an older title, and one I haven't read for many years, so when I needed a comfort re-read after a long day, I suddenly remembered how much I utterly adored this book, and dove in again.
And it was still wonderful.
Dr. Drew Lawson has arrived to a blip on the map, somewhere in Wyoming, to investigate and authenticate an Egyptian mummy princess at a dime museum. He's a college professor up for tenure, and despite being dedicated and wildly popular with students, some of his colleagues believe he's only being considered because of his relationship with the Chairman of the department. And so ready to prove his romance with Noah has nothing to do with it, Drew needs to produce more academic writing ASAP, and the potential princess is exactly within his realm of interests—ancient Egypt and potentially a woman erased from history due to her same-sex relationship.
The trouble is, Drew has a window of precisely 24 hours before he needs to return to California for a garden party with Noah's mother, and missing it means their relationship is going to be over. And who else is in Wyoming to learn about the mummy, but Fraser Fortune, a TV personality investigating the supposed curse of the princess. To say the two men butt heads in the beginning is a bit of an understatement, but Drew's need to study the princess, and Fraser's desire to elevate his show's seriousness by having a professor interviewed, is impossible to pass up.
But in true Lanyon fashion, after lulling the reader into a sense of calm, all hell breaks loose. Or is that all mummies break loose? Before Drew and Fraser know it, they're on a wild chase through town after a mummy that just keeps popping up at the most inopportune times. Drew is ready to write an article about fraud, Fraser is ready to provide the nation proof of the curse, and the two of them may be a much better romance together than anything Drew ever had with Noah...
Josh Lanyon is an extremely talented author. This isn't a secret. She is simply one of the best in the gay mystery/romance genre, and is so well versed in mystery as a whole, that I buy her books without even reading the blurb. I know I'm always going to get well researched, thoughtful, beautiful writing, and Mummy Dearest is no exception. Lanyon is particularly talented at crafting short stories and novellas that make you feel like you've read a multi-hundred page novel. I personally quite enjoy shorter reads in between big books, and I really love peppering Lanyon's into my reading schedule.
This book is adorably funny, a smidgen sexy, fascinating, and so much fun. There's never a Lanyon book I won't recommend, but if you're looking for laughs and a romp through the streets that'll relax you, this is the read you need!
And it was still wonderful.
Dr. Drew Lawson has arrived to a blip on the map, somewhere in Wyoming, to investigate and authenticate an Egyptian mummy princess at a dime museum. He's a college professor up for tenure, and despite being dedicated and wildly popular with students, some of his colleagues believe he's only being considered because of his relationship with the Chairman of the department. And so ready to prove his romance with Noah has nothing to do with it, Drew needs to produce more academic writing ASAP, and the potential princess is exactly within his realm of interests—ancient Egypt and potentially a woman erased from history due to her same-sex relationship.
The trouble is, Drew has a window of precisely 24 hours before he needs to return to California for a garden party with Noah's mother, and missing it means their relationship is going to be over. And who else is in Wyoming to learn about the mummy, but Fraser Fortune, a TV personality investigating the supposed curse of the princess. To say the two men butt heads in the beginning is a bit of an understatement, but Drew's need to study the princess, and Fraser's desire to elevate his show's seriousness by having a professor interviewed, is impossible to pass up.
But in true Lanyon fashion, after lulling the reader into a sense of calm, all hell breaks loose. Or is that all mummies break loose? Before Drew and Fraser know it, they're on a wild chase through town after a mummy that just keeps popping up at the most inopportune times. Drew is ready to write an article about fraud, Fraser is ready to provide the nation proof of the curse, and the two of them may be a much better romance together than anything Drew ever had with Noah...
Josh Lanyon is an extremely talented author. This isn't a secret. She is simply one of the best in the gay mystery/romance genre, and is so well versed in mystery as a whole, that I buy her books without even reading the blurb. I know I'm always going to get well researched, thoughtful, beautiful writing, and Mummy Dearest is no exception. Lanyon is particularly talented at crafting short stories and novellas that make you feel like you've read a multi-hundred page novel. I personally quite enjoy shorter reads in between big books, and I really love peppering Lanyon's into my reading schedule.
This book is adorably funny, a smidgen sexy, fascinating, and so much fun. There's never a Lanyon book I won't recommend, but if you're looking for laughs and a romp through the streets that'll relax you, this is the read you need!
March 8, 2016
3.5 star
Cute story about a professor (I just love professors and JL has lots) and a hobgoblin-documentary host/producer who pair up to solve a mystery involving a mummy (Surprised by the mummy?).
The professor is a tall lean handsome dude with relationship problems and the tv dude is a cute but chubby freewheeler who turns the professor's head with his speedos.
Enjoyed the antics and was looking forward to the resolution of the professor's angsty stuff when the story just stopped dead. (Heh! mummy...dead). I would've liked this story a lot more if there weren't so many loose ends, or I had at least found it when more of the series was complete. I'm assuming there's more to come.
Cute story about a professor (I just love professors and JL has lots) and a hobgoblin-documentary host/producer who pair up to solve a mystery involving a mummy (Surprised by the mummy?).
The professor is a tall lean handsome dude with relationship problems and the tv dude is a cute but chubby freewheeler who turns the professor's head with his speedos.
Enjoyed the antics and was looking forward to the resolution of the professor's angsty stuff when the story just stopped dead. (Heh! mummy...dead). I would've liked this story a lot more if there weren't so many loose ends, or I had at least found it when more of the series was complete. I'm assuming there's more to come.
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